Suicide crisis protests at Indigenous Affairs offices spread across Canada

Demonstrators calling themselves #OccupyINAC have taken over two Indigenous and Northern Affairs offices and forced the department to close six more buildings to the public.

• Winnipeg Indigenous and Northern Affairs office occupied by protesters
• Idle No More, Black Lives Matter protesters demand action on Attawapiskat suicide crisis

The protests began in Toronto, where around 30 people took over part of the Indigenous Affairs office on April 13. One day later, a similar occupation began in the department's downtown Winnipeg office.

Demonstrations have since been held outside offices in Regina and Gatineau, Que.

In an email to CBC News, a department spokesperson said offices across the country have been affected by the protests.

"In order to ensure the well-being of the public and security of the buildings, INAC regional offices in Toronto and Winnipeg are currently closed. Other INAC regional offices, including Gatineau, Regina, Edmonton, Calgary, Vancouver and Quebec are currently operating but closed to the public," the email states. 

"We recognize the public's right to engage in peaceful protests and lawful assembly and are balancing that against the need to ensure public and staff well-being."

In Winnipeg, the protesters issued a press release demanding a meeting with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, as well as protection for lands and waters and the abolition of the Indian Act.. They say colonialism has led to crushing poverty that fuels the suicide crisis in indigenous communities like Attawapiskat, Ont.

• Attawapiskat declares state of emergency over spate of suicide attempts
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"These conditions have existed in our territories for centuries, and the so-called government of Canada administers and benefits from it. These are acts of war, oppression and treason against our ancient treaties. Immediate response is called for," reads the statement.

"We need people to have the compassion and kindness to hear the pleas of our people." she said. "You can't allow this to continue. And you cannot stay silent. You just can't stay silent."

• Protesters demand action on Attawapiskat suicide crisis

In Gatineau, the protesters vowed to return again when the office opens on Monday.