G20 protesters recall an indelible experience

Indigenous activist groups kept their cool and stayed focused on the messages they wanted to convey at the G20 protests that took place on the streets of downtown Toronto in the last weekend of June.

One Native organization said their strategy was to maintain open communication with police and keep the peace.

Harrison Friesen, founder of Red Power United, a self-described Native rights movement, said he made it clear to Toronto police that his group of 150 protesters would be carrying drums, banners, and sacred items so there would be no surprises.

“We were used as a positive example that week, and were also congratulated by the Toronto City police,” said Friesen through a social media network.