Damian Kettlewell
1370 Arbutus
Vancouver, BC V6J 3W8
Gordon Campbell
premier@gov.bc.ca
March 2, 2007
Att: Gordon Campbell
Cc: Attorney General Wally Oppal
From: Damian Kettlewell
Re: Betty Krawczyk's March 5,2007 sentencing in light of Harriet Nahenee's death
I hope the New Year is treating you in good order.
I am writing to address the upcoming sentencing of Betty Krawczyk on March 5, 2007. I met Betty through my work with BC EcoEvents in the Elaho Valley in 1998 and she has been a source of inspiration for me since. Betty has been a leader in ensuring the preservation of numerous pristine watersheds in BC. Without Betty, many more of BC's valleys would be barren and devoid of life.
As you are aware, scientific studies that advise us to alter our consumptive lifestyles now dominate mainstream media. Past fringe perspective and policy from environmental activists has moved to the mainstream and progressive environmental policy is the most important issue for Canadians. Betty Krawczyk and Hariette Nahennee's environmental views and actions currently represent those of a majority of Canadians.
Mr. Campbell, please speak with your Attorney General, Wally Oppal, and enquire about compassionate means to resolve Ms. Krawczyk's upcoming sentence. Betty Krawczyk is a beacon of hope for environmental activists who have been "walking the talk" and lobbying the public for change.
First Nations elder Harriet Nahenee has just passed away while under the watch of the law. If our court system had invoked compassion means in her sentencing process Ms. Nahennee would likely still be with us today.
The pressures of modern life (i.e. debt, jobs, and families) restrict a majority of Canadians for voicing their opinions like Betty and Harriet Nahenee are able. Betty and Harriet are not ideological great - grandmothers but visionary giants who history will remember as great Canadian women who stood up and pushed our society to change.
Mr. Campbell, your perspectives on the First Nations treaty process in BC and climate change policy has evolved considerably in the recent past. As my MLA for Vancouver Point Grey, I ask that you encourage Mr. Oppal to ensure that our court system invokes compassion in the March 5th sentencing of Ms. Krawczyk. BC's court system does not need to threaten the life of another great British Columbian elder.
Compassionately yours,
Damian Kettlewell
BC EcoEvents, Chairperson
