SIPEKNE'KATIK (Shubenacadie) - Members of the Shubenacadie First Nation Band, Millbrook First Nation Band, and others staged a rally on Highway 102 on Monday, October 21, to oppose fracking and show support for Elsipogtog First Nation's ongoing protest in Rexton, New Brunswick.

With Halifax-bound traffic reduced to one lane near Exit 10, many motorists honked in support, slowed down to give a thumbs up, or offer a few words of encouragement.

Shubenacadie Band Chief Rufus Copage and Band Councillor Alex McDonald were present at the rally.

“As Mi'kmaw leaders, it is our responsibility and obligation to respect and protect our natural resources when they are threatened,” Chief Copage said in an Oct 18 news release.

“We applaud the Elsipogtog Chief and Council and the protesters for standing up against fracking and protecting the environment in their respective territory.”

The Shubenacadie Band is the second largest Mi'kmaw band in Nova Scotia, with more than 2,500 members.