KINSELLA: The people are not always right these days

On National Indigenous Peoples Day, celebrated on June 21, First Nation communities in Thunder Bay, Ontario, are hosting powwows and various events to honor their culture, community, and traditions, featuring food, dancing, music, and regalia. These gatherings take place at significant sites, such as Anemki Wajiw, the sacred mountain on Fort William First Nation. Need More Context? 🔎

An Iranian refugee, Sirus Lotfi, whose claim was denied due to a past serious assault conviction in England, will be allowed to argue for his protection in Canada based on his bisexuality, Kurdish ethnicity, and conversion to Christianity. The Federal Court found that prior immigration assessments inadequately considered his detailed affidavit about risks he faces if returned to Iran, thus remitting the case for reconsideration. Need More Context? 🔎

California police have arrested seven men involved in the largest jewelry heist in U.S. history, where over $100 million in valuables were stolen from a Brinks truck on July 10, 2022. The defendants face multiple charges, including robbery and theft conspiracy, with a trial set for August 1, while investigations continue involving several law enforcement agencies. Need More Context? 🔎

Prime Minister Mark Carney's controversial Bill C-5, which aims to eliminate trade barriers and grant cabinet extensive powers for approving infrastructure projects, is set for a final vote in the House of Commons before heading to the Senate. Despite support from Conservatives, opposition parties and various groups have expressed concerns over inadequate consultation with Indigenous communities and the bill's sweeping powers, prompting amendments for increased transparency and accountability. Need More Context? 🔎

Ontario Premier Doug Ford criticized a Netflix documentary about his late brother, former Toronto mayor Rob Ford, calling the filmmakers "disgusting" for perpetuating negative narratives about Rob, who passed away in 2016. He emphasized the need to let Rob's family find peace, stating that despite Rob's controversial political career, he should be remembered fondly rather than being subjected to ongoing scrutiny. Need More Context? 🔎

Canada Post has reached a new collective agreement with the Canadian Postmasters and Assistants Association, which includes an 11% wage increase over three years and lump-sum payments for employees, effective from January 1, 2024. However, negotiations continue with CUPW, Canada Post's largest union, which remains in a strike position, having recently received approval for a vote on the company's final offers, including a 13.59% wage hike over four years. Need More Context? 🔎