National Post

HAIDA matriarchs to occupy lands in covid battle

-

A group of Haida matriarchs say they plan to occupy two ancient villages on Haida Gwaii after a fishing lodge decided to reopen on the remote B.C. archipelag­o despite objections from the First Nation. The matriarchs say the Queen Charlotte Lodge is reopening as a local state of emergency remains in effect over the pandemic. They say they’re concerned that non-residents will expose locals to the coronaviru­s and with only two ventilator­s on Haida Gwaii, an outbreak would be devastatin­g. The matriarchs say they made the decision to peacefully occupy the lands with children, elders and other island residents following several community meetings. Brian Clive, vice-president of sales for the lodge, says it is fully complying with provincial orders and guidelines.

 ??  ??

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from Canada