Christian Peacemaker Teams (CPT) seeks participants for a delegation to Robertsville Mine (about 80 km north of Kingston, ON) where two Algonquin First Nations communities are struggling to protect their unceded land from uranium exploration and mining.

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Frontenac Ventures is licensed under the Ontario Mining Act to conduct exploratory drilling on 60 square kilometers of historic Algonquin territory. An open-pit uranium mine would release toxic radon gas and polonium, and leave behind millions of tones of radioactive tailings that will permanently pollute groundwater. The Ardoch First Nation says, "Uranium mining will lead directly to our social, spiritual and cultural demise."

After occupying the Robertsville Mine for 107 days, the Shabot Obadjiwaan and Ardoch First Nations agreed in principle to a mediation process with the federal and provincial governments and Frontenac Ventures. The Algonquins have called for a moratorium on uranium exploration and are seeking a resolution to their historic national land claims. The Algonquin blockade is supported by local "settler" (non-Algonquin) residents, and together maintain a continuous presence outside the mine.

The CPT Aboriginal Justice Delegation will meet with Algonquin leaders and settler and environmental activists; seek the perspectives of those who are in support of uranium exploration (including government officials); maintain a presence at the blockade site; develop an analysis of colonialism; participate in undoing racism training; organize a public witness in support of the Algonquin's struggle for justice. This is a crucial time for your voice to be heard for a just resolution of this matter.

CPT seeks individuals with some of the following experiences and gifts: interest or experience in First Nations issues and human rights work; commitment to non-violence; wllingness to engage in public witness, vigils, or other non-violent action; willingness to participate in daily periods of collective spiritual reflection and team meetings.

Participants in this delegation should be prepared to: participate in nonviolent public witness regarding Aboriginal sovereignty issues; stay in housing in rustic conditions; spend time outside in cold, unpredictable weather; communicate their experiences to local congregations, groups and the media upon return; arrange their own travel to and from Kingston, Ontario (CPT can assist with logistics); raise $250 (Cdn or US) to cover delegation expenses.