Land, Decolonization & Self-Determination
Montréal, occupied
Kanien'keha:ka territory
May 13-15 2005
UQAM, 400 Ste Catherine East
Basis of Unity
Land, Decolonization & Self-Determination conference basis of unity
- We reject the mutually reinforcing structures of capitalism, imperialism, colonialism, patriarchy and racism, and the institutions in which they are embodied. We are organizing this conference with the understanding that capitalist globalization is nothing new - it is simply a new name for the colonialism and culture of genocide which Indigenous peoples have been resisting for centuries. We challenge anti-war and social justice activists and organizations to recognize that there can be no justice on stolen land.
- We assert that decolonization 'at home' is an integral part of the struggle for global justice and self-determination - in concretely targeting the roots of injustice inside Fortress North America, we oppose injustice everywhere.
- We advocate the use of a broad range of tactics and creative initiatives in building a decolonization movement, and affirm the importance of building relationships of mutual aid and solidarity, within and across our movements, ranging from anti-poverty and prison abolition to queer and trans liberation, from immigrant and refugee struggles to environmental justice.
- We see decolonization as being only possible through active and collaborative efforts. This necessarily requires a parallel process of mutual self-determination and active solidarity between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, founded on a respect for the autonomy of all peoples, groups and individuals.