The deputy leader of the Green Party, who played a significant role in the Fairy Creek old-growth logging protests in 2021, has been unsuccessful in her attempt to appeal a prison sentence at the Supreme Court of Canada.
Angela Davidson, also known as Rainbow Eyes, was initially handed a 60-day jail term after being found guilty of seven counts of criminal contempt linked to the Fairy Creek demonstrations. However, her sentence was later reduced by the B.C. Court of Appeal. Despite this reduction, Davidson sought to elevate her appeal to the Supreme Court of Canada, which has now denied her request. Consequently, she is now slated to serve a 31-day prison sentence for her involvement in the protests.
In response to the court’s decision, the Green Party of Canada expressed unwavering support for Davidson, emphasizing their commitment to advocating for a justice system that safeguards the environment and respects Indigenous rights.
Davidson commenced serving her sentence, which includes 18 months of probation and 75 hours of community service, on Wednesday, stated her lawyer, Ben Isitt.
Expressing disappointment with the Supreme Court’s ruling, Isitt highlighted the importance of the issues surrounding the sentencing of Indigenous individuals and the application of Gladue principles.
Davidson breached an injunction granted to logging company Teal Cedar by engaging in protests that led to the occupation of roads within the logging area. This act of civil disobedience involving thousands of protesters resulted in numerous abandoned prosecutions for criminal contempt due to procedural errors by the RCMP. However, Davidson received a substantial sentence for repeatedly violating the injunction.
Davidson’s initial arrest in May 2021 occurred after she chained herself to a gate, leading to her subsequent arrests for breaching bail conditions during various visits to the protest site. Despite facing legal consequences, Davidson remained steadfast in her commitment to protecting the environment and old-growth forests.
Throughout the legal process, Davidson also ran as the Green Party candidate for the Northwest Territories, finishing behind the Liberal candidate, Rebecca Alty.
