Dale Goldhawk backs Springwater Park protest
SPRINGWATER TWP. – There’s wood piled neatly outside the door and colourful curtains on the windows inside the log home at Springwater Provincial Park.
Two First Nations women moved into the cabin nestled amongst the pines five days ago and have settled in comfortably for the time being.
“We’re not leaving until this is done,” said Patricia Watts, Friday, sitting in a chair beside the warm wood stove.
“Until there is some form of memorandum of understanding with our leaders, we’ll stay,” echoed her roommate, Elizabeth Brass Elson.
The two women began their Springwater protest after the park’s official non-operational status went into effect April 1.
The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) announced they were changing the park’s status last fall.
Since that time, a dozen protests have been held by residents of Simcoe County who consider the park — and the 29 animals that live there — a cherished heritage site.
On Wednesday, the women welcomed an old ally, Dale Goldhawk of AM 740 Zoomer Radio, who protested alongside Watts and Brass Elson in 2009 during their fight to save the natural aquifer under the proposed Site 41 landfill, north of Elmvale.
They recorded an interview for his Goldhawk Fights Back radio show, and further taping of the episode will continue at the park between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., Saturday.
“He’s got such a big following — so many people listen to him — we need to hear their voices now,” Brass Elson said.
Although, they haven’t been short on company, as park visitors drop by daily to check on their welfare.
Sitting in the log cabin with the women on Friday, Les Stewart of Springwater Park Citizen’s Coalition said he’s invited all local politicians.
“(Simcoe-Grey MPP) Jim Wilson said he’s coming, but I’m not sure who else is going to come,” Stewart said.
Brass Elson added, “They should come and listen to the people who are paying their salaries.”
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