The Honourable Derek Bennett, Speaker of the House of Assembly, is pleased to announce that the Newfoundland and Labrador Legislature is participating in the Moose Hide Campaign today.
The Moose Hide Campaign is a grassroots movement of Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians committed to protecting women and children, and speaking out against gender-based and domestic violence. The Campaign is grounded in Indigenous ceremony and traditional ways of learning and healing, and this year marks the sixth consecutive year of our Legislature’s participation.
The Campaign began over 10 years ago, when co-founders Paul Lacerte and his daughter Raven were hunting a moose on their traditional territory along the Highway of Tears, where dozens of women have gone missing or been murdered. The heart of the Moose Hide Campaign is a small, square moose-hide pin – a symbol of solidarity in taking a stand against violence towards women and children, supporting reconciliation and honouring Indigenous culture.
Members of the House of Assembly began the day with reflection and prayer in the Chamber. Representatives from the Moose Hide Campaign – David Stevenson, CEO, and Sage Lacerte, national ambassador – joined Members to offer reflection and present Members with moose-hide pins.
Indigenous representation from Newfoundland and Labrador included Todd Russell, President of the NunatuKavut Community Council, who participated in the ceremony and addressed Members virtually.
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“As Speaker, I am pleased that the Newfoundland and Labrador House of Assembly is participating in the Moose Hide Campaign for the sixth consecutive year, providing an opportunity for our Members to take action in honour of women and children, to support reconciliation, and to honour Indigenous traditions and culture. It is my hope that our Legislature’s participation will signal our collective commitment as elected officials and leaders in our communities to create safe spaces and promote cultural sensitivity. I am also pleased to welcome David Stevenson and Sage Lacerte from the Moose Hide Campaign to our House of Assembly, and honoured that they were present to offer reflection and present Members with the moose-hide pin. I also extend gratitude to President Todd Russell from the NunatuKavut Community Council for joining us as well.”
Honourable Derek Bennett
Speaker of the House of Assembly
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Bobbi Russell
Policy and Communications Officer
House of Assembly
709-729-1178
bobbirussell@gov.nl.ca