A Winnipeg-area real estate developer has launched a lawsuit against 49 people who tried to defend ecologically sensitive wetlands that have historical significance to the Métis against controversial development plans.
Companies owned by Andrew Marquess, a well-connected Winnipeg developer, allege in court documents newly obtained by PressProgress that the 49 defendants participated in a “trespassing campaign” on the wetlands. Marquess claims this forced him to build a fence, install flood lights and hire a private security firm to “conduct surveillance” on the Indigenous and environmental activists.
Marquess had previously launched a lawsuit against several lead organizers. A new Statement of Claim, filed at the end of September, names dozens of new defendants.
Those defendants say Marquess is seeking “damages potentially in excess of $500,000” – a move they warn could have a chilling effect on peaceful protests.
I know most of my followers are American, but please consider that Canadian Natives are one one the WORST treated groups here, and honestly the Métis are some of the worst off out of that as they are routinely left out of government care and settlements between Native Canadian groups, and the Government of Canada.
The Canadian Government and Judicial System is biased towards these people already.
This is essentially a billionaire suing a bunch of very poor natives for exercising their right to protest and protesting the development of important wetlands (both historically important to the Métis people, and ecologically important to that region). He is doing this because he KNOWS these people have not got the money to defend themselves in court. He believes he can win because he’s a big player and they are little players. He believes he can get whatever he wants, and no one can stop him.
Let’s prove him wrong. Let’s help Canadian Natives defend their rights, their land, and themselves. And if you cannot donate, please reblog this to help spread the word.
If you want to help, you can donate to the legal fund of the peaceful protestors who are being sued by Andrew Marquess: