Colonialization… What is it and the possible impacts

Colonization is the process by which a nation establishes and maintains its domination over foreign territory or people. It often involves the settlement of people from the colonizing country in the colonized territory, exploitation of resources, imposition of cultural practices, and political control over the native population.

In the context of Canada, colonization refers to the historical and ongoing impact of European colonization on Indigenous peoples and their lands. The effects of colonization in Canada include the displacement of Indigenous peoples from their traditional territories, loss of culture and language, discriminatory policies and practices, and socio-economic disparities.

Protestors in Canada, particularly Indigenous groups, and their allies, often advocate from Indigenous rights, land sovereignty, environmental protection, and justice. These protests can draw attention to issues such as land rights, resource development projects, environmental concerns, and government policies affecting Indigenous communities. In Canada, there are legal processes and mechanisms in place to protect property rights, including provisions for expropriation under certain circumstances. Generally, the government can acquire private property for public use through a process called eminent domain, but property owners are typically entitled to compensation. However, the specific laws and regulations regarding property rights and expropriation can vary by jurisdiction.

During conflicts or protests, particularly those related to land rights, environmental issues, or social justice, there can be various ways in which protesters may affect private property.

Blockades or Occupations… protests may set up blockades or occupy certain areas, including roads, access points, or private property, to bring attention to their causes or disrupt activities they oppose. This can impact property owners’ ability to access their land or conduct business.

Damage to property… in some cases, protests can escalate to property damage, vandalism, or destruction. This may result in harm to private property, such as buildings, vehicles, equipment, or infrastructure.

Legal actions… protesters may engage in legal actions, such as filing lawsuits or petitions, to challenge government decisions, development projects, or policies that they believe infringe upon their rights or the environment. These legal processes can impact property owners involved in the dispute.

Media attention… protests can attract media attention, which may lead to public scrutiny of businesses, landowners, or projects associated with the conflict. Negative publicity can affect the reputation and value of properties and businesses involved. Government responses… depending on the nature and scale of the protests, governments may intervene to address the issues raised by protesters. This could involve policy changes, regulatory actions, or even expropriation of private property in some cases.

If you are concerned about how protests during a conflict may affect your property or business, it’s important to stay informed about the situation, understand your rights, and consider seeking legal advice to protect your interests. Effective communication with relevant stakeholders, including protesters, local authorities, and community members, can also help mitigate potential impacts on your property.

I would be remiss if l did not comment on the past weeks provincial by elections….
Doug Ford’s conservatives won both Ontario byelections by convincing margins. PC candidate Zee Hamid, who has Liberal roots, won by more than 2,500 votes, in a Mississauga riding which is just in the backyard of Liberal leader Bonnie Crombie. And PC Steve Pinsonneault captured Lambton-Kent-Middlesex where the former minister McNaughton held the riding but resigned during the greenbelt fiasco.

The Liberals finished second in both byelections with opposition NDP coming a distant third. Doug Ford put a great deal of personal time and used political capital to get these ridings to stay blue.

These byelections marked the first test for Crombie, who was crowned Liberal leader in December. If this is an early sign of things to come, the Liberals could be in for a long five years.

On the other hand, this should be a clear message to the Liberals and Ms. Crombie to not take the Ford machine too lightly as it still is a force to be reckoned with.

On a personal note I believe that Bonnie Crombie is asking herself why she gave up a great job as the Mayor of Mississauga and be under constant pressure. Look for a possible party revolt if Crombie does not meet the Liberal standards and leads the party to victory.

Vincent Black/MS