Rally for Love and Kindness brings hope at McArthur Park

The More Love & Kindness Rally was a peaceful gathering, one offering hope to Indigenous peoples after recent racist comments were spread online.

Indigenous people and allies came from all over the Lakeland to participate in the rally at McArthur Park’s gazebo this past Sunday.

There were speeches from two elders Linda Boudreau and Doreen Lameman, Nipi Iskwew, Rick Wilson, the Minister of Indigenous Relations, MLA Laila Goodridge, Jimmy Cardinal, President of Metis Nation Region 1, and Gary Lameman.

For the Cree traditional honour songs, Evan Cardinal played the drum, while Lisa Bourque, the organizer of the event, and Shelley Cardinal, sang a water blessing song before the walk down Main Street in Lac La Biche.

“It was really empowering and positive and hopefully we could open more minds and hearts out of this moving forward,” said Bourque.

“We all have to take a stand together and stand up for what’s right, that’s what it comes down to always no matter what.”

There was education about Treaty 6 lands, the struggles Indigenous ancestors had to endure while in residential schools, and the racism they express is embedded in our society today. The More Love & Kindness rally was a way for Indigenous people to share their knowledge on the past and on ways to improve the future.

“The rally was a way for us to acknowledge our history and to honor our lands. We are strong, we are resilient, and we will make it work,” said Bourque.

The beginning of the walk

A group picture of the rally attendants at the McArthur Park gazebo.

MLA Laila Goodridge was in attendance and said a few words at the rally.

An elder, Doreen Lameman opening up about her struggles with racism.

Minister of Indigenous Relations Rick Wilson giving a speech at the rally.

An elder Linda Boudreau sharing her knowledge about Indigenous issues and culture.