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Protesters ignored on torch route

Two Manitoba First Nations communities organized a roadside protest this morning on the Olympic Torch route.

Joe Daniels, a councillor with the Sagkeeng First Nation band, considered it an insult that the torch procession passed by the protesters at the junction of the Trans-Canada Highway and Highway 11 at about 10 a.m. without stopping to hear their message.

"They just drove right by," said Daniels. "This is an insult and an example of how little they think of our people. They just don't want to hear our message."

About 150 people from Sagkeeng and also Roseau River First Nation assembled to draw attention to the plight of murdered and missing aboriginal women. They say not enough action has been taken by politicians and lawmakers to bring the perpetrators to justice.

"The Olympic Games are a worldwide event, so we thought this would be a good way to make people aware of what is happening to First Nations people in Manitoba and Canada.

"I guess we'll have to follow them to Steinbach."

The Olympic Torch was in Falcon Lake at 8:30 a.m. today and then headed west to Richer, Ste. Anne and Steinbach. It is due in Winnipeg at 4:30 p.m.

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