Protesters in Ontario say support growing for rail blockade

SARNIA, Ont. - A southwestern Ontario First Nation is expected to continue its blockade of a C-N Rail line in Sarnia today.

A member of the Aamjiwnaang First Nation says support for the demonstration is growing with donations like blankets, food and other offers of help coming in from around the province and even as far as California.

Ron Plain says there is a feeling of excitement at the blockade with the youth who started the protest on Friday building snowmen along the railway tracks.

The protesters -- who are part of the national Idle No More movement -- are denouncing the Harper government's omnibus Bill C-45, which they claim eliminates treaty and aboriginal rights set out in the Constitution

They say the blockade will continue until Prime Minister Stephen Harper meets with Attiwapiskat Chief Theresa Spence.

The leader of the northern Ontario First Nation has been on a hunger strike since December 11th to bring attention to aboriginal issues.

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  Alex Rogers wearing a Grass Dance head-dress stands in front of protest sign while people from Aamjiwnaang First Nation and supporters gather for a meeting with officials as their blockade of the CN St. Clair spur in Sarnia, Ont., Sunday, December 23, 2012. (Dave Chidley / THE CANADIAN PRESS)