Volume 19 Issue 1 Published monthly by the Union of Ontario Indians - Anishinabek Nation Single Copy: $2.00 January/February 2007 IN THE NEWS Chiefs predict year of defi ance TORONTO (CP) – Canada should police tried to evict the protesters. aboriginal observers say. There are 1,000 outstanding brace for more dramatic displays of They succeeded only in fanning the Already this year police and land claims across Canada, and Little NHL aboriginal defi ance in 2007, warn fl ames of rebellion: reinforcements armed forces have been keeping “any one of them could trigger Native leaders who say the First descended en masse from the a careful eye on developments the same reaction,’’ said Ontario coming soon Nations frustrations that boiled neighbouring reserve, the most at the eastern Ontario town of regional chief Angus Toulouse. SUDBURY – The Ojibwe Cultural over in a small Ontario town may populous in Deseronto, where activists from “That’s the unfortunate thing Foundation is the host of this year’s well be a tipping point for decades Canada. nearby Tyendinaga Mohawk – we’re going to see much more Little Native Hockey League of simmering aboriginal anger. Since then, Territory are threatening to block of that. There is a sense nationally Tournament It was in the bedroom the Caledonia a developer’s plans to construct a and regionally that there is this being held March 11-15 in community of Caledonia, Ont., dispute has 140-home waterfront subdivision frustration.’’ Sudbury. This which borders the massive Six become a on disputed land. The land claim, Aboriginals have lost their tournament is Nations reserve in southwestern lightning which was fi led in 1995 and never land over the years, Toulouse expected to draw Ontario, where that anger seeped rod for resolved, essentially bisects the said, making it more diffi cult for entries from 100 quietly into a nondescript, half- deep-seated town of Deseronto. The so-called them to earn a living and mount teams, involve fi nished housing development on aboriginal Angus Toulouse Culbertson Tract is a 375-acre a credible campaign to regain the 2700 players, and attract some land the protesters claimed as their resentment over everything from parcel fronting on the Bay of Quinte land through offi cial channels. 7,000 spectators. own. residential schools to the deplorable which granted to the Mohawks for For those still camped out in Two months later, that living conditions on reserves like their loyalty to Britain during the Caledonia, there is more at stake Bartleman simmering cauldron boiled over as Pikangikum and Kashechewan, American Revolutionary War. than the deed to a former housing seeks books development. When a dozen people walked TORONTO – The Hon. James on to the half-fi nished Douglas K. Bartleman has had his term as Lieutenant-Governor of Ontario Creek Estates subdivision in the extended to early hours of Feb. 28 and hung a July by the banner proclaiming it Six Nations government of land, they were reclaiming stolen Canada. pride, said Janie Jamieson, a He began spokesperson for the protesters. his last year “At some point, any reasonable as the Queen’s representative person would say, ‘Enough is in Ontario James K. enough,” Jamieson said. “At some by launching Bartleman point, we have no choice but to another stand up and defend ourselves, province-wide appeal for donations because nobody else is going to do of new or gently-used books for that for us.’’ aboriginal children. Books can be Aborginals were only granted dropped off at any OPP Detachment the right to vote and leave their across Ontario or at the 17 Toronto Police Services Stations across the reserves within the last 50 years, Greater Toronto Area. Jamieson said. Many are living in Third World conditions without Martin pledges adequate housing or clean water, Palestinians ‘go Native’ to make point and suffer higher rates of diabetes Native role Over 100 Palestinian peace activists and residents held a peaceful protest at Huwwara checkpoint near Nablus and other health problems, she WINNIPEG (CP) – Former in the northern part of the West Bank, dressing like Native Americans to send a message to visiting U.S. said. Liberal Prime Minister Paul Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. Posters written in English included one that read “The Indian wars are “All around us, you see Martin says not over, Ms. Rice, We are still here too”, and others comparing the theft of land from Native Americans to the prosperity,’’ Jamieson said. “When he will devote plight of the Palestinians. – Photo by Agence France-Presse you look into our own communities the rest of his . . . everything is hanging on by a life to solving Border-crossing cards expected by spring thread. It’s a very fragile time for Canada’s us right now. We are in a do-or-die aboriginal NIPISSING FN – Anishinabek Nation leadership Chief John Beaucage wrote in a Jan. 16 letter to situation now.’’ problems. is confi dent that its citizens will be issued a more the 42 Anishinabek Chiefs. “At present, Indian “All First Nations people are “This is secure Certifi cate of Indian Status Card sometime and Northern Affairs are in discussions with the the Canadian frustrated over incursion into Paul Martin this spring to facilitate border crossings into the Canada Border Security Agency and U.S. Dept. traditional lands,’’ says Tyendinaga issue,’’ said United States. of Homeland Security to recognize the new, more Martin “They are suffering Chief Donald Maracle. “There are as compared to the rest of the Effective Jan. 23 this year, air travelers from secure, Certifi cate of Indian Status (the “Status going to be more protests. First country. In a country as wealthy Canada required valid passports for entry into the Card”) for offi cial border crossing purposes.” Nations people are becoming more as Canada, there is no excuse United States, and a Jan. 2008 deadline has been set The new-look Status Card is expected to be one of and more aware of how serious if any child is unable to achieve for water and land visitors. fi ve forms of ID that will be accepted at the Canada- the injustices that our nation has their potential.’’ “If all goes as expected, First Nations people in US Border, and would be second in security ranking suffered over the years. People Canada may not require a passport after all, Grand only to the Canadian passport. want it redressed.’’ ANCU Banner 10.25” x 2” Page 2 Anishinabek News January/February 2007 Anishinabek Consultations underway for matrimonial property law What is On-Reserve Matrimonial The Anishinabek Nation Anishinabek Nation. Upcoming sessions are scheduled need further information, please Real Property? recognizes and supports the What has the Union of Ontario for the Ojibways of Garden River, contact Rhonda Couchie, Special Matrimonial real property refers development of a legislative process Indians done so far? February 6, 2007 and Whitefi sh Lake Projects Coordinator via email at to the ‘family home and property,’ and to fairly and effectively address On December 14, 2006, the Union First Nation, February 8, 2007 1-4 [email protected] or by phone is a signifi cant issue affecting First how matrimonial real property shall of Ontario Indians hosted its fi rst session p.m. at (705) 497-9127 ext. 2221 or toll Nations across Canada as currently be addressed upon a breakdown of on the topic entitled “Respecting If you have any questions or free at (877) 702-5200 ext. 2221. there is no legislative or legal process marriage, but does not support the Matrimonial Real Property Summit.” in place governing how matrimonial unilateral approach that Indian and This session was attended by the real property on First Nations will be Northern Affairs Canada has taken Grand Chief, Anishinabek-Kwewuk distributed fairly and effectively upon in its approach to this matter and has Council, Elders, Anishinabek Chiefs, a breakdown of marriage. strong concerns with the limited time community members and technicians. Recently, Indian and Northern and resources being allocated to the To support the Anishinabek Affairs Canada has announced that consultation process that is occurring. Nation’s vision to “assert their own it will be undertaking a process to As such, at the Anishinabek Nation jurisdiction and to move forward” in introduce legislative solutions in the Special Chiefs Assembly in Garden this area, the participants in session House of Commons in Spring 2007 River First Nation on October 31- recommended the development of Bidahbaan Healing regarding On-Reserve Matrimonial November 1, 2006, the Anishinabek an Anishinabek Declaration and Real Property (MRP) for First Nation Chiefs-in-Assembly Framework which will identify the Nations. Part of the process consists overwhelmingly directed the Union key principles, values, and issues to be of consultations conducted by the of Ontario Indians to facilitate the addressed in the Anishinabek Nation Centre Assembly of First Nations and the development of an Anishinabek Nation Law on Matrimonial Real Property. Native Women’s Association of Law on Matrimonial Real Property In addition, the session also identifi ed Canada, which are currently being that truly represents and respects the that it was crucial that the Anishinabek 4” x 4.5” held across the country. values, beliefs, and positions of the Youth Council be involved in the process. What are the next steps? Regional Consultation Sessions -- Starting January 2007, the Union of Ontario Indians began conducting Regional Consultation Sessions on Matrimonial Real Property (MRP). All Anishinabek members, leaders, Women, Youth and Elders are welcome and encouraged to participate to assist in the creation of Anishinabek Laws that will work to protect the most Little Feather basic needs of shelter for our most precious asset, our children, following Learning Products a marriage breakdown. 4” x 4.5” GaggiMedia Warning 6 x 7

Nipissing FN CN Rail notice 4 x 4.5 January/February 2007 Anishinabek News Page 3 Anishinabek

Nmisennaa (Our Sister) Eva

ANISHINAABEMOWIN BY SHIRLEY WILLIAMS

Nmisenh, Eva Cywink, noongwa niishwaaswi-midina-shi-niizhwaaswi nsaboongizi, gii-ndadiziba Dooganing, Wikwemikong Shkoniganing, Nishinaabe kaaning. My sister is Eva Cywink, now 78 was born in South Bay, Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve. Eva kino ngwaaji gii-daa ko maanpii Ontario. Wiidigemaaganbaniin gii- nokiiwaan Mshkode-daabaani-miikinaang. Eva has lived in many parts of Ontario, wherever her CPR husband Participants in the launch of a new cancer care video for aboriginal people included Elder Brian Nootchtai, worked. mother and daughter cancer survivors Julie Ozawagosh and Kim Nootchtai, and Glen Hare, deputy grand Ngodwaaswi binoojiinyan gii-bi-koginan. Gii-naabii’gage, gii- chief of the Anishinabek Nation. – Photo by Shirley Honyust naabiigagaanan mdassan, mnji-kaawnag, webawaanan enaabiigagadegin, miinwaa emiisinaabiigagaadegin gego. Video designed to help cancer patients She raised 6 children. She knitted, knitted socks and mitts, crochet Afghans SUDBURY – A new video project has been designed to Aboriginal languages: Cree, OjiCree, Ojibwe, Mohawk and dollies. demystify cancer treatment for Aboriginal people. and Michif., and will be distributed across Ontario. Gii-kido iw, gii-bi-zhi-kendaan waa zhi-nta-naabiigaged oodi gaa- A collaborative group of eight Cancer and Aboriginal Cancer is on the rise in the Aboriginal population, binji-kinoomaagaazod, Binoojiinyag gaa-nji-naanaagide’enmindwaa organizations have received a $225,000 grant from the especially colorectal cancer, and project organizers kinoomaage-gamigoon Spanish, oodi aname-kweg gaa-kinoomaagwaajin Ontario Trillium Foundation to produce a culturally hope the video will ease fears by offering down to earth waa-zhinaabiigaged miinwaa dash waa zhi-biinchiged. Boo’ooj dash wii- appropriate video featuring interviews with Aboriginal information and explanation of what can be expected go, zhazhi gii-bi kendaan waa zhebiinchiged, maamaayin shki-ntam gii-bi cancer patients. Whitefi sh Lake First Nation fi lm-maker following a cancer diagnosis. It is also designed to educate kinoomaagoon waa zhebiinchiged pii ebikogenin. Darlene Naponse hopes to complete the project by health-care professionals such as doctors and nurses about She says she got her skill from the Residential School in Spanish, where December of this year, the perspective of healers who treat patients using their the sisters taught her how to knit and to do other things such as cleaning. Using the voices of Aboriginal cancer survivors knowledge of traditional Aboriginal practices. However, her mother was the fi rst person to teach her how to clean. and their family members, the goal of the video is to The eight-member collaborative involves participation Gii-ni naabjikaaznan nokiiwnan gaa bi kendaan. Gii-bi-nokiitaage ultimately increase access to wholistic cancer information, from: Shkagamik-kwe Health Centre, N’Swakamok dekaashiinh-gamigoong noo’oonj ngoji miinwaa gii-biintamowaan promote screening as a form of prevention and to Native Friendship Centre, the Aboriginal Cancer Care Unit bemaadizijin doo-wiigwaamwaan gye doo-wiijkiiweyin. Endad maanpii encourage Aboriginal people to seek early treatment. In of Cancer Care Ontario, the Regional Cancer Program Giiwedinoong gii-maamonji biinteni! Gda-giide-waabmaadiz go mchisagoong addition, mainstream medical personnel will also gain of Hôpital regional de Sudbury Regional Hospital, gaa piitchi biinteg endad! an understanding of the Aboriginal worldview of cancer Weeneebayko Health Ahtuskaywin, Mnaamodzawin Eva made put her skills to work at many different lodges where she worked management. Health Services Inc., Canadian Cancer Society and the as a cleaning lady. She also cleaned for her friends and other people she knew The video will be made available in French and several Sudbury Métis Council of the Métis Nation of Ontario. as well. She had the cleanest house in Northern Ontario!!! You could have seen your refl ection on the fl oor! Giinbowaan wiidigemaabaniin. Gii-ni-chikwezi dash. Dbinoojiinsmon gego gii-maajaabiniin jiibaaya-kaaning eko niizhi b’boongak. Her husband died. She became alone. Her baby of the family left to the spirit world about two years ago. Noongwa Eva daa enji naagede’enmidwaa getzijig oodenaawens Espanola zhinkaade. Gii-ni-gaadaan gaa-dad ko oodi nji gii-ni naajtood ezhi-waabid. Shkizhiigoong emaajiiging gego gii-yaan, gii-ni-giibiingwe dash. Eva is now in a nursing home in Espanola. She had to give up her home due to her deterioring eye sight. She had cataracts and now has become blind. Ezhi-giibiingwed dash go, aapji go gii-yaab minwaangozi. Mii gaa kidpa, “Gaawiin-gwaamizinoo, gii-biijmaam dash wiigo. Gmooshzhin go maan pii eyaayin!” Gaa dash wiigo pane gii-bi-mnwaangozii, gaawiin pane gii- naajiwesiinoo gego. Gii-bi-znagizi go miinwaa gii-nzagendam.. Gii-mskwii- de’endam shkitoozig ko gaa-zhi miigdadizod ko. Doo-giibiingwewin gii- nzagigendamogon. Even though she became blind, she still has a lot of humor. She said one time, “I don’t see you but I can smell you. I sense you’re here” Things were not so nice and she had a hard time. She became frustrated not be being able to do things for herself. Her blindness made her life diffi cult. Eva gii-shkitoon ji bwaa gchi-nagayendizod gii-naajtood naabiwin. Gii- ni-kendaan gchi-piitendimowin waa zhe naadimaaged maan pii kiing, ngwaa go naa waa zhe naabiigaaged ne’aab naabiigamowaad mjikaanaan miinwaa noo’oonj go naa gego da-ooshenyin, dbinoojiinmon miinwaa shemeyin Mary Coghil , Brenda Jonah, Janice Nolan and Autumn Rose Coghil, members of the Healing Lodge miinwaa go doo-sayenmon. Singers and Waahe Nimki Kweak, drum the opening song at the Garden River Recreational and Eva overcame her depression after losing her eyesight. She has learned the Educational Centre. value of still contributing to the world by knitting mitts for her grandchildren, for her children and for other people. She makes dish cloths for her sisters and Garden River opens new community centre nieces and brother. By Margaret Hele and anaerobic equipment. of a Multi-Purpose Sports Complex. Aapji go gchi-twaawenmaanaa nmishenaa! GARDEN RIVER FN – A new In 2003 co-op teacher Joanne The Chief expressed his pride in the We are very proud of our sister! community educational and (Jones) Thiessen and Natalie Barry, cooperation that saw this project recreational centre opened Dec. 15, teacher/co-ordinator of the Adults come to fruition, noting that the new exactly one year after the original in Motion School – which had been facility “is 100% funded by Garden sod-turning ceremony. operating in a rented former pool hall River First Nation with no fi nancial The facility was built with the – began researching funding options assistance from government.” combined efforts of the Adults in for a new school with classrooms A smudge ceremony and prayers Motion School, the Education Unit and a gymnasium. They considered were followed by the cutting of a and the Recreational Program. The the possibility of “perhaps converting ribbon made of the four colours.. new centre houses the offi ces for the a house which would provide the Elder ( Betty Grawbadger), adult ( Education unit which handles the classrooms and never imagined that it Chief Lyle Sayers), Youth (Alicia formal educational needs of the youth would develop into this.” Sayers ) and child (Hannah Jones ) of the Garden River First Nation, and In June of 2005, Chief Lyle Sayers cut the ribbon representing the four classrooms for the Adults in Motion and council approved a shared-use stages of life. The Healing Lodge Beausoleil gets boost School which provides the adult facility combining a recreational Singers and Waahe Nimki Kweak, Garfi eld Dunlop, MPP for Simcoe North played Santa on Dec. 15 when he community with the opportunity to facility with a new education centre. (The White Thunder Women Hand presented Chief Rod Monague Jr. with $141,000 in funding from Ontario complete their Grade 12 education. A proposal to the Community Drum Singers) sang and drummed the Trillium Foundation to support the Beausoleil First Nation Family Health The full-sized gymnasium is equipped Trust was approved by the people and opening song. Anishinabek Nation Centre’s sports programs designed to promote youth activities. On hand with bleachers and stage. Another thus funds were made available for the Deputy Chief Glen Hare presented a for the presentation were Peggy Monague-McGregor , community health room with a wall of windows is where project. Also funds from Casino Rama painting of Dan Pan to be hung in the director, and Donna Bere and John Pugsley from the Trillium Foundation the health club operates with cardio had been set aside for the construction building. grant review team. – Photo by Ian McInroy, Barrie Examiner Page 4 Anishinabek News January/February 2007 Maanda ndinendam

The Anishinabek News is a monthly publication of the Union of Ontario Indians (UOI). Views expressed are not necessarily the opinion or political Opinion position of the UOI. No portion of this paper, including advertisements, artwork, photos and editorial content may be reproduced without written permission of the Anishi- nabek News Editor or UOI Executive. The receptionist turned a whiter shade of pale Readers are invited to submit letters, articles, and photos for publication. when she saw the two of us coming in the front door, Please include your name, address and telephone number on all material There always me a modest-sized middle-aged man accompanied submitted. All submissions will be reviewed for publication based on priority of by Bob, who happens to be half my age but twice my interest and edited for clarity of thought, taste, brevity and legal implications. Remuneration will be paid for submissions only if a written agreement with the size. She nervously arranged for us to have an instant Editor is made prior to publication. needs to be audience with the station manager, on whose forehead beads of perspiration quickly began to form. Editor: Maurice Switzer Within two minutes he offered an on-air apology, Contributors: Holly Brodhagen, Alan Corbiere, Don Coyhis, some response a cash donation to the local friendship centre, and Cindy Crowe, Rick Garrick, Margaret Hele, Shirley Honyust, Gord Keesic, Brad Robinson, sponsorship of an upcoming conference about media Deanna Therriault, Richard Wagamese, Shirley Williams Part of my job is to provide answers to the dozens coverage of Aboriginal issues. I often think we should have asked him for our own weekly show. But Editorial Board: Fred Bellefeuille, Les Couchie, Cathie Favreau of inquiries that reach my desk every week, some of which can seem pretty trivial, but many of which he steadfastly refused to let us speak in person with Production: Deb Sullivan have far more serious implications. the young announcer who I imagined was cowering Co-ordinator: Priscilla Goulais behind his console praying that those scary Native Like the Anishinaabe-kwe living in Oshawa people would not storm the studio and relieve him of Telephone: (705) 497-9127 Toll Free: 1-877-702-5200 who phoned very upset about the discussion she just his healthy head of hair. Fax: (705) 497-9135 e-mail: [email protected] had with her real estate agent. She and her husband In cross-cultural training sessions we have Anishinabek News P.O. Box 711, Nipissing First Nation, were selling their home – very tidy and well-kept, North Bay, ON P1B 8J8 she assured me – and their realtor had offered a warned business owners that lousy customer service suggestion she felt would make it easier to fi nd a leaves them vulnerable to accusations of racism if buyer. the customer on the receiving end is from a visible minority. There’s lots of room for improvement. “Get rid of all We hear examples of everyone from police offi cers your Native art,” she to Members of Parliament not showing respect for advised. “People won’t people of various cultural backgrounds. want to buy if they Publishing Criteria know Indians have The appropriate response to such treatment need GOAL been living here.” not be angry or intimidating, or involve wearing masks To publish a quality newspaper and related publications de- or camoufl age. But there should be a response, fi rst signed to foster pride and share knowledge about Anishinabek The woman was from the target of such behaviour, then, if necessary, current affairs, culture, goals, and accomplishments. fl abbergasted with a from those of us who are given the responsibility of representing them. Racism against one member of a OBJECTIVES mixture of shock and anger and wanted some group is racism against all members. To provide information that refl ects the Creator’s four original gifts to the Anishinabek: advice on what to do about this thoughtless We have various tools at our disposal – likebringing Maurice Switzer Respect: To welcome diversity and encourage a free exchange insult. media attention to problem situations – that are not as of opinions that may differ without being disagreeable. Fair easily accessible to individuals. and humourous comments are welcomed, but not ridicule or I suggested she personal attacks. look in the phone book for a regional offi ce of the To be a warrior – an ogitchidaa – is about defending Ontario Human Rights Commission, call city hall for your family, your home, and your community – Honesty: Debwewin – speaking the truth – is the cornerstone information about any local anti-racism organizations, taking care of others. This usually requires nothing of our newspaper’s content. and contact the closest First Nation. Her nearest more than speaking out, using your voice. Sharing: Providing opportunities for people from the four cousins – the Mississaugas of Scugog – are located half an hour north, and I hoped they would be able If people don’t listen, that’s an entirely different corners of the Anishinabek Nation to tell stories and record matter. achievements, and to keep our citizens informed about activi- to offer some moral support, if not actually assign a ties of the Union of Ontario Indians. local “warrior” to motor over to Oshawa to lend a practical hand. Strength: To give a voice to the vision of the Anishinabek Na- Maurice Switzer is a citizen of the Mississaugas tion that celebrates our history, culture and language, pro- Scugog established its reputation as a defender of Alderville First Nation. He serves as director of motes our land, treaty, and aboriginal rights, and supports the of rights when every adult male in the community communications for the Union of Ontario Indians development of healthy and prosperous communities. enlisted for Canadian military service in World War and editor of the Anishinabek News. I.

NOTE: The Editor reserves the right to edit all submissions for Sometimes just a phone call from a First Nation brevity, clarity, and suitability for publication. All formal com- spokesperson can get results. ments and complaints must be addressed to Editorial Board c/o Anishinabek News. A used-record shopkeeper in Sudbury refused to honour a customer’s status card tax exemption until he heard someone on the other end of the phone identify himself as representing the Union of Ontario Indians. There was a similar positive outcome for Advertising & News Deadlines a Native woman who got rude treatment from a The current circulation of the Anishinabek News is 10,000 copies, waitress in a Sturgeon Falls restaurant. with 9,000 mailed and 1,000 distributed at various events. But nothing beats the personal touch for getting DEADLINES FOR MARCH ISSUE the attention of individuals or businesses who have Advertising been less than courteous with Native clients. It’s Bookings: February 21 positively amazing how fast folks will pay attention Final Art: February 25 to a complaint when a VBI – Very Big Indian – shows News up on their doorstep. News submissions: February 21 Scheduled printing: February 28 My colleague Bob Goulais and I happened to be For more information or inquiries to the Anishinabek News in Sudbury one Monday morning when we heard that related to advertising and circulation issues please call our new a local radio deejay had ad-libbed some stereotypical toll-free number: 1-800-463-6408 drivel about Indians and alcohol. We thought we’d drop by the station to ask in person what they intended to do about this lapse in broadcast judgement. Know Your Rights CANADA POST CUSTOMER #1905929 AGREEMENT #0040011021 http://www.ohrc.on.ca/ January/February 2007 Anishinabek News Page 5 Maanda ndinendam/Opinions Your money can be spent or saved LETTERS During the past few months, will mature in three years, like a your money in a little over 7 years. several residential school survivors Guaranteed Investment certifi cate This is why even small differences Nepotism major downfall have contacted me about their (GIC), term deposit or a bond. Even in rates of interest can affect how compensation. For those who don’t some savings accounts can generate quickly your money grows. If the direction of First Nation People is to move forward, why is there know, the government of Canada has a high rate of interest. If you may You should also consider what lateral violence within the leadership of our First Nation communities offered a payout compensation for need the money before three years, a you want the money to do. Do you and/or our management positions? What I mean by “lateral violence” residential school students that will GIC may not be the want it to grow in value as much as is that a body of management makes decisions for communities. provide a cash settlement of $10,000 right investment. possible? Is this money to be used to Nepotism in the past and maybe in the present has and is been for the fi rst year in a residential Cashing in a generate a regular stream of income? seen as a major downfall in these implementations when dealing school followed by $3,000 for each GIC before it Are you looking for some growth with First Nation communities. This is one example that comes to year after. Some will be able to get matures will and some income? Answering these mind among others that has created lateral violence that affects us more than this amount, and for others, cause you to lose questions can help you to choose the all as a Nation. This behaviour in our communities has affected us the amount of compensation will be all accumulated type of investment that suits your as a whole right down to the community members and to our youth, determined on a case-by-case basis. interest. In this Gord Keesic need. and has made it diffi cult to move forward. I am often asked for investment case, a high interest Perhaps the most important thing We need to heal within our own teepee. We need to use kindness, recommendations from these people. savings account or a bond will work to consider is the amount of risk love, caring and sharing with our extended families and relatives. Before we discuss investment best. you are willing to take when you These were the values and behaviours that originally created our options, I like to simplify matters If your time horizon is longer, invest. Some people don’t mind if communities. There are four colors to the Great Circle of Life, and even more. There are basically two say 20 years, I would consider their investments go up or down in we are to respect each other’s cultural beliefs. options of what you can do with your other types of investment that may value over the short term if there is a Today, our children are being prepared by learning a European money. First, money can be spent. fl uctuate in value more that GICs good chance their money will grow education that allows them to live in a place where money is needed Second, money can be saved, perhaps and bonds, but that over time should signifi cantly over the long term. to survive. However it doesn’t take money to teach them identity. for a future need. These savings can grow to a much larger sum. When Generally, the greater the risk, the It takes a community with strong mental, emotional, physical, and then be invested so that they grow in comparing investments, investment greater the return and similarly, the spiritual values to raise good men and women. When these young value. professionals like to refer to the rule lower the risk, the lower the return men and women, our future leaders, are exposed to lateral violence, If the money is to be saved and of 72. If you take the rate of return you can expect. what are we teaching them? We need to begin with our own invested, what options are available? your money is growing at and divide leadership in place right now. There are several important questions that number into 72, the result will Ogawabenizhee to ask yourself before committing give you a rough idea of how long it Gord Keesic, Lac Seul First Nation, Janet Day, Serpent River FN your money to an investment or an will take for your money to double. is an Investment Advisor with RBC investment strategy. For example, if your GIC is earning Dominion Securities Inc. offi ce in Fuel handlers got card When do you need the money? 4% annually, 72 divided by 4 results Thunder Bay. He is a member of the If you will need the money in in 18. Your money will double in Canadian Investor Protection Fund First Nation Independent Fuels has been in operation for quite some three years, it may be best to place approximately 18 years. Earning an and can be reached at 1-800-256- time. It started with Willard Pine, Randy Naponse and Mr. George, your money in an investment that average of 10% per year will double 2798 or at [email protected]. who past away while on First Nation business. The idea was to increase awareness with regards to the rebates from the Ministry of Finance, which at the time could take 2-4 months to process the 14.7 percent rebate for the small First Nation Gas Retailers in Ontario. This delay put quite the pressure on small First Thumbs down for Mel’s Apocalypto Nation Gas Retailers in Ontario. The three men involved believed By Deanna Therriault of the Spanish conquistadors and and still believe that the rebate processing time could be and should Variety Magazine calls Apocalypto, missionaries. be reduced to 2-4 weeks at the most. “…a remarkable fi lm!” The Hallelujah! There isn’t much of All three men have put in a lot of time and personal money to Hollywood Reporter deems it, “A a story here, but more a self-serving achieve this goal. First Nation Independent Fuels was opened to help fi rst-rate epic.” Mel Gibson’s screen message from Mr. Gibson that these organize Ontario First Nation Gas Retailers in Ontario. vision of the ancient Mayans raked in people were rotten sinners with a And as of this date the gas/status/ and border crossing card has $14 million on its opening weekend complete disregard for life as we become a reality with the Ministry of Finance, Indian and Northern at the box offi ce. know it. I suspect he’s attempting to Affairs and Border Offi cials working together. However, as a conscientious draw a parallel to today’s culture of Patricia Matinet Anishinabekwe, I cannot jump on excess and disregard, but it’s at the the Hollywood bandwagon and offer expense of indigenous peoples. If not praise to a fi lm I fi nd completely for the arrival of the missionaries, Question for Little NHL offensive and ultimately inaccurate. we can only imagine what would Another Little NHL Tournament is upon us diehard hockey fans I am not the average movie-goer. I have happened! We cannot deny the soon. am a minority and this fi lm depicts existence of historical documentation This letter is in regards to the Little NHL Executive keeping an the lives and history of the minority of violence – I am not saying that eye on the 50% band member rule for First Nations with a team group I identify with. I am not indigenous history is all light and playing in this tournament. How can handing in a birth certifi cate Yucatan Maya, but I am an indigenous sunshine – however I have a strong prove where that participant is from? person and in these uncertain times, objection to exploitation of violence Another question for the Little NHL executive: Does a fi nancial we should have a “one-for-all and all- for profi t, or as a platform to preach report go out to the public? If not, why? for-one” mentality. I approach fi lms about one’s personal beliefs. Anastasia Cywink, Whitefi sh River FN that depict my heritage or the beliefs The movie looks so authentic, and lives of my cousins with a critical blood and gore. it’s so convincing in it’s depiction eye. I found myself wincing and of “genuine” Mayan existence that Looking for lost dad Let’s face it: Hollywood doesn’t looking away for the remainder of it’s almost as though Mr. Gibson has I have been researching my family tree. I was adopted as a baby have a great track record when it the fi lm – it’s almost too painful to stepped back in time and brought us in 1946 and have only recently discovered that my birth father was comes to honestly depicting the lives watch. The violence is incessant: to this brutal pre-Colombian world a Canadian soldier who had been stationed in England in a place and histories of indigenous peoples, women, children and men are – a place that needed saving, without called Sunderland in the Northeast of England at the end of 1945, and Apocalypto is no different. ruthlessly slaughtered throughout. which the Mayans would surely have that his name was Jackie Spoon and that he was about 26 years old Hollywood has persistently Jaguar Paw and other men from his perished. at the time, making him about 86 or 87 now if still alive. stereotyped us as either the noble village are captured with the intent of Those who believe that “if it’s I have done a lot of research and most Canadian sources refuse savage or the bloodthirsty warrior, sacrifi cing them to the Mayan gods on the screen it has to be true” are to help me as my parents were not married. I am not sure where the latter being Mel Gibson’s chosen by removing their hearts from their ignorant of the fact that the Spanish to turn and wondered if Native offi ces could help trace my father. depiction. chests. They are subsequently taken arrived on the shores of Meso- I have been in touch with a family from Seine River who referred The fi lm follows the trials of on an unending walk through the America 300 years AFTER the last me to a nephew in Moose Factory who assists people in fi nding lost Jaguar Paw, played by Cree actor Yucatan jungles and forced to endure Mayan city was left for ruin. relatives. Rudy Youngblood, a Mayan warrior variations of psychological and Apocalypto is a disservice to a Pam Smith, 17 Wensleydale Close, Grantham, Lincolnshire, having more than his share of bad physical tortures along the way. culture, plagued like other indigenous NG31 8FH England Tel: 01476 410638 days! It is fi lmed entirely in the It’s a formulaic Hollywood peoples across the Americas by racist ancient Yucatan Maya language blockbuster with the right mix diatribe and lack of understanding by (the only positive, in my opinion). of action and violence with little dominant populations. This movie Would Adam play Tommy? substance. Most movies have a happy The movie begins quietly enough, will do more harm than good. I am an adopted member of Adam Beach’s family. The centre-spread ending so it comes as no surprise that however within moments your Two midechininjiin down. article you presented in your November issue told a fi ne story of the movie concludes with Jaguar Paw senses are assaulted with explicit and Canadian Aboriginal soldiers and the importance of Remembrance being spared (due to the thankful graphic Maya-on-Maya violence. Day to our Aboriginal communities. Now that the “Flags of Our prophecy of a young Mayan girl), Deanna Marie Therriault is an Jaguar Paw’s village is raided by Fathers” frenzy is over Adam can move onto other projects (including) a larger, more aggressive band of returns to his family and approaches Anishinabekwe activist and supporter a new beginning with the subtle hint of indigenous rights from Fort the possibility of Adam doing a Sergeant Tommy Prince movie. Mayan warriors and chaos ensues R. Irwin Kehler, The Pas, Manitoba in a stomach-turning 15 minutes of of future soul-saving with the arrival William First Nation. Page 6 Anishinabek News January/February 2007 Manitou Collection Ezhoosgaged/Arts commemorates apology by United Church NORTH BAY – A touring exhibi- tions artists continue to make to tion of 38 original works by nine the cultural, social and economic Anishinaabe artists from Mani- fabric of Canadian society. toulin Is- From Feb. 24 to March 20, land will North Bay’s WKP Kennedy Gal- wind up its lery will play host to the Manitou 18-month Collection tour, which was cre- journey ated to mark the 20th Anniversary with North- of the United Church of Canada’s ern Ontario fi rst offi cial apology to Aboriginal stopovers in peoples for the Church’s role in North Bay, perpetrating cultural and spiritual Lively, and assimilation. The Manitou Col- Timmins . lection tour is being co-ordinated The by the United Church’s Northeast- touring ex- ern Ontario Manitou Conference, hibit – ti- and the WKP Kennedy Gallery in tled “The North Bay. Manitou Rev. Will Kunder, Executive Collection: Melvin Madahbee, a Secretary for Manitou Conference Celebrating resident of Aundeck says, “We want to celebrate the the Spirit of Omni Kaning, holds creativity of these artists and en- the People” a Fine Arts Certifi cate able more persons to see this art. from Humber College – highlights in Toronto and Wasse- It is also our hope this exhibition Turtle Vision by Melvin Madahbee the gifts abin in Wikwemikong. will serve as a catalyst for build- and tal- ing respect and understanding be- church’s fi rst apology. In 1998, says, “To have my work exhibited resilient we are, how we have ents of Anishinaabe artists Don tween First Nations peoples and the United Church issued a second by the United Church was very survived in the face of enormous Assinewai, Leland Bell, Blair other cultures.” formal apology for the pain and interesting for me. People ask me pressure to disappear. We are still Debassige, Doug Fox, James In 1988, Dr. David Humphreys suffering specifi cally caused by how I could allow my work to be here. And a church acknowledg- Jacko, Melvin Madahbee, Stanley of Timmins donated the Manitou the denomination’s involvement in used by a church, but I feel my ing their role is important. I my- Panamick, Randy C. Trudeau and Collection paintings to 26 north- operating residential schools. work being displayed by a church self simply realized that I am not Tim Trudeau as examples of the eastern Ontario United Church Leland Bell, one of the artists is great. My work transcends so- a victim. I am not in ‘survivor’ signifi cant contribution First Na- congregations in response to the whose work is featured in the tour cial conditions. People see how mode. I am in ‘life’ mode.” Telling stories through dance PETERBOROUGH – Native per- an Alberta based group that special- formers are bringing their cultures izes in Indigenous theatre, storytell- and traditions to audiences through ing and dance. story-telling, song and dance. Leading the group are Artistic In November the Alberta-based Directors Rosa and Melvin John. Kehewin Native Performance pre- Both Melvin and Rosa obtained their sented their interpretation of Sky Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Stud- Woman Falls to the Earth, the tra- ies from Trent University and their ditional Haudenosaunee creation Masters of Fine Arts degrees from story at Trent University’s Nozhem the University of Calgary. Kehewin Theatre. Kehewin, part of an inter- Native Performance has developed national alliance of Indigenous per- a unique physical and traditional formers and companies in the U.S., creation/production process known New Zealand, Australia and Mexico, as “NAH” which is a Cree word for had permission to present the Iro- “here take this”. This process, rooted quois legend as related by Mohawk in Indigenous knowledge, links the Elder Paul Skanks. performer to the story such that the Polar Bear Water Ballet by Joanne Simpson When a young woman, about story becomes embodied. to give birth, falls through a hole Cast members include senior Artist honours polar bears in the sky, it is up to the smallest dancer and reigning Miss Indian NIPISSING FN – Artistic paint- expression through the abstract in of animals to save her and secure a World, Violet John, from Kehewin future for her child and generations First Nation in Alberta, a hoop er and carver Joanne Simpson colour, stone and movement. The to come. The Sky People have no dancer and champion fancy dancer (Temiskaming Algonquin First message is an invitation to tran- knowledge of what lies below, and who won her title at the Gathering of Nation,Wolf Clan) embraced her scend our dimension with uncon- on the earth there is simply a fl uid Nations Pow Wow in Albuquerque new career three years ago by fi rst ditional love. relationship between nature and its New Mexico in April 2006. During exploring the medium of Her painting Po- beings. A pregnant Sky Woman the show’s Peterborough stopover, soapstone and later ex- lar Bear Water Ballet discovers a beautiful blue light that Violet conducted a hoop dance and perimenting with water- honouring Nanook, Au- shines beneath a tree. After dig- theatre workshop. colour and acrylics. rora and Nikita, was pur- ging a hole large enough for her to The cast for Sky Woman Falls to Joanne has resided in chased by the Cochrane see what lays below, she hangs on the Earth includes local performers, Nipissing First Nation Polar Bear Habitat. to the roots that will soon transform Howard Adler , Mayelin Lovet Sem- since 2002, after work- Joanne has been in- into the beginnings of life on earth mler and Patti Shaughnessy, who ing in law enforcement in spired by accomplished as we know it. She leans too far, Violet John, a champion dancer and performed for local school groups Toronto. She began ex- artists like Norval Mor- snapping the roots and plunging into reigning Miss Indian World, is a mem- and the general public in mid-De- pressing her Native spiri- Joanne Simpson, risseau, Michael Rob- a world of water and the unknown. ber of the cast of Sky Woman Falls to cember. Sky Woman Falls to the artistic painter and the Earth. tuality by working with carver inson and Leland Bell. The geese that fl y below come to her Earth was presented in partnership fi sh bones on canvas and Having taken her fi rst aid and rest her on the back of an deliver her child. with Indigenous Performance Initia- evolved to depicting and honour- step as a messenger, she magically ancient grandmother turtle. To Sky “The beauty of our culture and tives, a Peterborough-based collec- ing the water world, in particular knows there is a lot yet to come Woman’s dismay there is nowhere to stories really came through in your tive that enables Indigenous artists to the whale. Using soapstone, ab- from the world apart. have her child and no visible means show,” said one audience member tell their own stories: through dance, stract images come forth along The artist can be reached at in which to return to the Sky World. from Tyendinaga Mohawk Terri- music, theatre and video – creating with bears and turtles to complete 705-753-6397, at 1900 Jocko Nature comes to her aid once again tory. “My kids know that story and stories of this generation – merging her symbols of inspiration. White Point, North Bay, ON, P1B 8G5 or by way of friendship and dedication. yet they were hooked and never took cultural history with current con- Howling Wolf, her spirit name, by e-mail: mahigans@sympatico. Several animals give up their life to their eyes off your dancers.” cerns, presenting dreams and images seeks to embrace Creator’s gift of ca. provide Sky Woman with a place to Kehewin Native Performance is for the future. January/February 2007 Anishinabek News Page 7 Dohm-nuk /Let’s Play!

ASK HOLLY RabbitRabbit and Bearand Paws Bear Paws BY HOLLY BRODHAGEN How about exchanging resolutions? How do I keep my New Year’s res- olutions? If you are like me, you have probably already broken your reso- lutions a hundred times. How about an exchange system for New Year’s resolutions? You probably put more time and energy getting ready for celebrating the arrival of 2007 than in coming up with your resolutions, so you deserve some leeway on making adjustments. My philosophy is that since your Christmas presents like- ly had an exchange or return policy, why shouldn’t you have the same opportunity to change your resolu- tions? So my policy is that you have 31 days to make changes to your resolutions. I fi gure you need that fi rst few days to get over the holi- day season and then you need some time to fi gure out what you really c All rights reserved. Chad Solomon and Little Bear Productions. 2005. want and how you can go about get- ting it. Some might think that a New NATIVE WISDOM Year’s resolution is just a funny WINNERS OF THE 2006 ABORIGINAL PEOPLES CHOICE MUSIC AWARDS tradition but when you really think Like the grasses about it might be the one time when showing Best New Artist: Best Single: Best Song Writer: Best Group: you are completely honest about tender what makes you unhappy and how you intend to change it. Here are a faces to few ideas on how to come up with each other, resolutions that might last longer thus should than your holiday leftovers. we do, for 1) Review the past year. What this was the would you change if you could? Is it something about yourself or wish of theGrandfathers something that involves others? of the World. SHANE YELLOWBIRD SHANE YELLOWBIRD HANK HORTON EAGLE AND HAWK 2) Think beyond the quick fi x since there is probably an underly- ~ Black Elk, Lakota Best Producer/Engineer: Best Album Cover: Best Video: Best Traditional CD: ing motive to your resolution. What is it you really want to achieve in World power the year to come? 3) Be realistic with your aspi- works in circles rations. You want to resolve to do “You have noticed that everything something that is achievable, not an Indian does in a circle, and that is something you are likely to fail at. because the Power of the World always 4) When you have condensed works in circles, and everything and DESMOND MENTUCK your plan into a statement, write it everything tries to be round. AND D.J. ST. GERMAINE TRACY BONE SHANE YELLOWBIRD RED BULL down and keep it close. Consider it “In the old days all our power came to us from the sacred hoop of your mantra for the year to come. Best Contemporary CD: Best Rock CD: Best Blues CD: Best Rap CD: the nation and so long as the hoop Once you have your new reso- was unbroken the people fl ourished. lution, it’s time to make it work. Go The fl owering tree was the living out and start the process even if you center of the hoop, and the circle of take a baby step. Even baby steps the four quarters nourished it. The east will get you to your goal. gave peace and light, the south gave If you are not a resolution kind warmth, the west gave rain and the of person but you read this column, north with its cold and mighty wind you can apply these steps to other gave strength and endurance. This areas of your life. Think about the knowledge came to us from the outer GREY BUFFALO EAGLE AND HAWK BILLY JOE GREEN REDDNATION changes you can make in your fam- world with our religion. “Everything the power of the ily, at your job or with your health Best Country CD: Best Folk / Acoustic CD: Best Fiddle/Instrumental CD: Best Aboriginal Music by world does is done in a circle. if you could just step back and work Non-Aboriginal Artist: out a game plan. The sky is round and I have heard Happy New Year and happy that the earth is round like a ball and so are all the stars. The wind, in its planning! greatest power, whirls. Birds make their nests in circles, for theirs is the Holly Brodhagen, Dokis First same religion as ours. The sun comes Nation, holds a Masters of Social forth and goes down again in a circle. Work degree. She welcomes ques- The moon does the same and both are tions or comments from readers c/o J.J. LAVALLEE round. Even the seasons form a great HANK HORTON KEITH SECOLA & THE FREEBIRD BAND SIERRA NOBLE the Anishinabek News, or by e-mail circle in their changing and always at [email protected]. come back again to where they were.” Page 8 Anishinabek News January/February 2007 Saving the Mno-bmaadziwin/Health children of meth Project guarantees prenatal wait times By Don Coyhis TORONTO (CP) – Pregnant guarantee, health-care providers was breaking new ground. “Today’s announcement is What about the children of meth? women on up to 10 First Nations will be brought in to the reserve, “This means that Canada’s part of showing that wait-time Whatever we can say or do about reserves will have wait times for or the expectant women will be new government is the fi rst in guarantees can work.’’ those suffering through meth use, aren’t we also impacting the next prenatal care guaranteed under able to see a health-care provider this country’s history to introduce Aboriginal leaders welcomed generation - today’s children and a new pilot project intended off-reserve but nearby. a guarantee through this pilot the initiative but said implementing even those in their mother’s womb to showcase the Conservative In announcing the project, project based on patients receiving the guarantees will be a daunting - through the methamphetamine government’s commitment to a Health Minister Tony Clement the care they need when they need task given the remoteness of many epidemic? Jerry Moe and Candace key election promise. said the Conservative government it,’’ Clement said. of their communities. Shelton, presenters at the Wellbriety Under the project women There is also a chronic shortage Conference, say yes. on participating reserves will be of doctors in many parts of the Moe has been a children’s guaranteed an appointment with Best drug for type 2 diabetes country. therapist for 28 years. In his role as a health professional within two TORONTO – Canadians who are newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes “Sometimes it is a long wait the national weeks of a positive pregnancy test. could benefi t from the fi ndings of a new study examining the effectiveness just to see a doctor for prenatal,’’ director of After that, they will be guaranteed of three commonly prescribed medications, says the Canadian Diabetes Betsy Kennedy, chief of the War children’s prenatal checkups once every Association. The trial showed rosiglitazone to be more effective than Lake First Nation in northern programs at four weeks, or consultation with a metformin or glyburide in slowing the progression to hyperglycemia in Manitoba, said in an interview. the Betty Ford specialist within two weeks if the people newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. “There are always some Center in pregnancy is designated as at-risk. Two million Canadians have been diagnosed with diabetes, of which concerns, especially for women California, he If needed to back up the 90 per cent have type 2. that are in high-risk pregnancies.’’ is a powerful advocate for kids. In a Don Coyhis passionate, energetic and even child-like presentation to the conference, he speaks for the little ones who can’t speak for themselves. ‘’Today if you will allow me,’’ he says, ‘’let me be their voice. Little boys and girls who don’t have a voice and who are dealing with so much stuff in Media Buying Services their life. I also want to bring you a message of hope. We know how to help these little boys and girls. ‘’I’ve never at any time during MNR Forestry my professional career had more boys and girls whose parents are incarcerated,’’ he says. He closes with a very sober wish and a 8 x 9.5 question. ‘’How much more in our families, in our communities, in our tribes, how much longer is addiction going to be a legacy that gets passed from generation to generation? We are downstream and all these people are drowning. We go in and try to save them. But isn’t it also time to go upstream and get kids before they jump into that lake called addiction?’’ Candace Shelton, Osage, is also a powerful, caring advocate for children’s lives ‘’upstream’’ in the pregnancy of their moms. In her role as a senior Native American specialist at the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Center for Excellence in Tucson, Ariz., her job has been educating communities about Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder at a time when interest in Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is not as high as it could be. But it should be, because as meth enters the picture, unborn children are now subjected to both alcohol and methamphetamine before they are born. She talks about the many characteristics of fetal alcohol individuals, which Indian country has known about for a long time. These include physical, mental, behavioral and learning disabilities that are possibly lifelong. But what about the effects of meth? Is there something called Fetal Methamphetamine Syndrome? She says, ‘’We don’t have a documented meth syndrome yet. I think we are going to get one. There is a lot of research going on right now.

Don Coyhis, Mohican Nation, wrote this article for Indian Country Today.

January/February 2007 Anishinabek News Page 9 Mno-bmaadziwin/Health

Anishinabek support campaign Expectant mother butts out TORONTO – The government Free Strategy to encourage and of Ontario launched “What promote the use of Anishinabek By Anna Peltier me down. When I socialized of my friends are smokers. You Do Matters,” a public First Nation initiatives aimed Three months and nine days – with friends and strangers, there However, they are very respectful awareness campaign aimed at at reducing non-traditional that is how long it has been since I was lighting up that cigarette. and supportive of my decision to encouraging members of the tobacco use and creating I quit smoking. Then suddenly my perspective quit smoking and do not smoke Aboriginal community to quit smoke-free environments within That may not seem like a took a 360-degree turn. I in my presence. smoking. Anishinabek territory.” very long time, but coming from found out that I was going to I also have great support from Anishinabek Nation Grand “We will continue to work a person who had smoked for be a mother. friends and family members who Council with the province where our a little over 13 years, that is an Right then remind me what a good job I Chief John Strategy and Anishinabek First accomplishment! and there, have done so far and that I can Beaucage Nation initiatives share common During that 13-year period and without continue to stop smoking.. It supports goals and objectives. This is an I had tried to quit by switching a doubt in is amazing how those words of the public issue that affects the health of from regular to ultra-light my mind I encouragement got me this far. awareness children, and healthy children cigarettes, cold turkey, chewing knew that People ask me from time to objective are our future.” gum – you name it! my life as a time if I will continue to smoke of the The campaign consists of 30- campaign. second radio announcements, And of course my smoking smoker was after I have my baby. I simply Anna Peltier “The John Beaucage print ads in targeted publications, drew the comments that all done. Who smile and say I am going to try Anishinabek posters distributed in Band smokers despise: “You should would have my best. If I’ve made it this far, I Nation is committed to reducing offi ces, Friendship Centres, quit!” “You are polluting your guessed that a person the size of might as well keep going. the non-traditional use of Health Centres and other lungs,” etc. It sounded like a a pea (at the time) would have As a worker involved in tobacco and the health burdens gathering places. Pamphlets broken record after a while that the greatest infl uence on my dealing with Fetal Alcohol from the misuse of tobacco and fact sheets are available to you later tuned out… kind of like decision to quit! Spectrum Disorder issues, I am amongst its citizens, says Chief Aboriginal communities and the when your mom repeatedly told Of course, my road to quitting aware of the damaging affects of Beaucage. media. Additional information you to do a chore that you didn’t has not been an easy one. From prenatal alcohol consumption and “Our member communities is available at www.ontario.ca/ like doing as a child. (Sorry time to time, I do get that urge I have learned that fetal smoking have signalled this shared SmokefreeMatters Mom!) to light up a cigarette or to buy – smoking during pregnancy commitment by providing us The rate of smoking among Smoking was a part of my life. a pack for that matter. It is also – has similar damaging effects. with a mandate to develop an Aboriginal peoples is three When I was upset, it would calm challenging that a good majority (First of a series) Anishinabek Nation Smoke- times the provincial average.

M’chigeen Aanjwaang First Nation First Nation Job Posting 6” x 8” 4” x 8” Page 10 Anishinabek News January/February 2007

Min of Health ad Tobacco Health - FRENCH Full Page NO color January/February 2007 Anishinabek News Page 11

Min of Health ad Tobacco Health - ENGLISH Full Page NO color Page 12 Anishinabek News January/February 2007 9th9th AAnnualnnual CCasinoasino RRamaama AnishinabekAnishinabek lifetimelifetime AchievementAchievement AwardsAwards

The 9th annual Casino Rama Anishinabek Lifetime Achievement Awards will take place June 27, 2007 during the Grand Council Assembly at the Alderville First Nation.

Four recipients will be selected from each region and four from the host community of Alderville First Nation.

Please take the time to nominate someone who has dedicated their lives to the improvement of First Nations. Elders, community volunteers, community workers, leadership, role models who have made a difference in our communities. We also accept posthumous nominations. Please note the Charity will cover approved expenses to attend the event.

Deadline for nominations is February 28, 2007. Nominations received after this date will be consider for the 2008 awards.

To nominate someone please contact: Anishinabek Nation 7th Generation Charity Contact Les Couchie, PH: 877 702 5200 or 705 497 9127 EMAIL: [email protected] January/February 2007 Anishinabek News Page 13

Anishinabek Nation Political Office Grand Council Chief, John Beaucage Deputy Grand Chief, Nelson Toulouse Chief-of-Staff, Bob Goulais Executive Liaison Officer, Monica Lister Executive Secretary, Patricia Campeau UNION OF ONTARIO INDIANS Nipissing First Nation P.O. Box 711, North Bay ON P1B 8J8 Ph: 877-702-5200 Fx: 705-497-9135 E-mail: [email protected] First Nations fi ght NIIGAAN ZHAAMIN “Moving Forward, Together” Toronto garbage plan TORONTO (CP) – A southwestern Ontario First Nation has launched a court action over the proposed sale and expansion of a nearby landfi ll to the City of Toronto, arguing that the failure of both the city and province to consult them in the process is a breach of aboriginal treaty rights. The Oneida Nation of the Thames has fi led an application for judicial review in Ontario Superior Court concerning the Green Lane landfi ll site in Elgin County southwest of London, Ont., which lies just two kilometres east of the aboriginal community. “We’re asking the courts to intervene ... and we’re basing that request on the responsibility of the city and the province to fulfi l its obligation and its duty to consult with First Nations,’’ Oneida Chief Randall Phillips told a January news conference. “We don’t believe that they have exercised that responsibility in any meaningful way.’’ Chief Kelly Riley of Chippewas of the Thames, which borders the Oneida Nation, said his community draws draw drinking water from an aquifer under the Thames River. His citizens are members of the Anishinabek Nation. Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief John Beaucage said the sale of the Green Lane landfi ll site represents a “call to battle” for his organization’s 42 member First Nation communities across Ontario. Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief John Beaucage discusses indigenous issues with Maria Sumire, a “We will not tolerate such a threat to our lands and waters. The Anishinabek Peruvian congresswoman, during his December visit to the Social Summit for Peoples’ Integration in Bolivia. Nation unequivocally supports this action and will take whatever measures Sumire is coordinator of the Association of Andean Women, a global partner organization of the United necessary to protect the traditional territory of the Anishinabek Nation.” Church of Canada. – Photo by Mark Hathaway

David Beaucage applauded in Bolivia WhatWhat wouldwould youyou dodo Suzuki Foundation By Bob Goulais Health Minister Tony Clement’s Chief has pulled out of the Chiefs of Ontario Grand Council Chief John Beaucage of Staff, the Leader of the Offi cial (COO). In a letter, and news release to forfor thethe environmentenvironment iiff yyouou has returned from his second fact- Opposition and the Parliamentary the Ontario Regional Chief, Ogitchidaa fi nding mission specifi c to tangible Secretary to the Minister of Indian Arnold Gardiner outlined their Nation- werewere PrimePrime MMinister?inister? Nation Building and Government Affairs. We spoke on the Anishinabek specifi c approach to dealing with other Development. During the fi rst week Matrimonial Real Property law, our governments and their Chiefs’ resolve of December, Grand Council Chief Self-government Agreements, the $160 to move forward under their own The David Suzuki Foundation has organized a traveled to Cochabamba, Bolivia to million Language Fund, opportunities representation and priorities. cross-Canada tour to promote environmental issues. We attend the Social Summit for Peoples’ in Health and First Nations Statistics. Self-government will visit 50 communities during the 28 days in Integration. Intergovernmental Relations In mid-December, the federal February, asking people what they would do “if they John was a special guest of the (IGR) Forum Cabinet gave the go-ahead for the were Prime Minister...” and we believe First Nations Summit as well as the United Church With regard to the Minister of Indian Affairs to sign the have a crucial contribution to make to the national of Canada who facilitated and funded Intergovernmental Relations forum, Agreement-in-Principle respecting dialogue we’re hoping to jump-start during the tour. this important indeavour. First Nations, Ontario and Canada met Anishinabek Nation Governance. We believe Canadians across this country are quite concerned about The mission to Chochabamba is on December 18 to discuss the next This agreement, eight years in the global warming, the loss of fish, animals, birds and other elements of important because Bolivia is the only steps towards implementation of the making, will give First Nations the biodiversity; and the quality of drinking water, our air, and our food. This country in the world that is led by an new tripartite forum and to discuss jurisdiction to make laws respecting tour will be an opportunity for people to share these concerns with us and Indigenous Head of State and control two priority issues, Drinking Water core governance, selection of leaders, eventually with our political leaders. over the mainstream government. and Education. Unfortunately, the appeals and redress, and other We encourage all First Nation citizens to come out to these events. Bolivia may also be seen as Education forum will not assist our mechanisms of government. The We believe the voices of First Nation peoples on environmental issues a model, as it is expected that initiatives, as we are already moving signing of the AIP is a signifi cant step need to be heard - across the country and on Parliament Hill. indigenous people will be the majority on self-government in that area in this lengthy process. A signing We have worked with local community groups across this country to in certain places in Canada, such as with agreements with Canada, and ceremony is expected in February. set up the publlc events that will make up this tour. We’ve been working Saskatchewan. discussions underway for a specifi c Congratulations to the Negotiation on this tour only since Christmas, so events are just now being finalized. The Grand Council Chief was a agreement with Ontario. Team, the Chiefs Committee of The tour schedule is on our website www.davidsuzuki.org much-heralded statesman during his Grand Council Treaty #3 Governance and the staff of the For those who are unable to attend the events, we invite input through visit, providing remarks during the Grand Council Treaty Number 3 Restoration of Jurisdiction Project. a variety of media. Aside from the standard letters, email and dialogue, Opening Ceremony and throughout we are encouraging people to make short videos, which we will post on the Summit which were received by YouTube and our website. thunderous applause. Please help us spread the word. If you have any questions, please He was able to meet with an contact Panos Grames or Ann Rowan at 604-732-4228 or indigenous Congresswoman from the [email protected], [email protected] Bolivia National Assembly and with Sheduled tour stops in Ontario are: the serving Minister of Justice. Cornwall, Feb. 8, 2007; Tickets 613-938-9400 Grand Council Chief will be Kingston, Feb. 8, 2007; Tickets 613-530-2050 working with National Chief Phil Toronto, Feb. 9, 2007; Tickets 416-364-5590 Fontaine to host a state visit and dinner Feb. 10 – Feb. 11 – Feb. 12 – Feb. 15 – Feb. 16 details TBA with Bolivian President Evo Morales Pickering, Feb. 9, 2007; Tickets 905-427-0061 in the near future. Kitchener - Waterloo, Feb. 13, 2007; Tickets 519-888-4882 Federal Relations Windsor, Feb. 13, 2007; details TBA We continue to plan for an Leamington, Feb. 14, 2007; details TBA innovative meeting between the Grand Hamilton, Feb. 17, 2007; Tickets 905-546-4040 Chiefs of Ontario, the provincial Markham, Feb. 18, 2007; details TBA Barrie, Feb. 18, 2007; Tickets 705-728-4613 Minister Responsible for Aboriginal Thunder Bay Feb. 19, 2007; Tickets 807-684-4444 Affairs -- David Ramsay --and the Riel Day ceremonies Ottawa, March 2, 2007; details TBA federal Minister of Indian Affairs, Jim Grand Council Chief John Beaucage, seen chatting with Metis Nation Prentice. We hope to conclude the of Ontario president Tony Belcourt, participated in Nov. 16 Louis Riel day with a Sweat Lodge ceremony Day celebrations in Toronto. The two leaders participated in a panel at OnOn behalfbehalf ofof ourour 4242 chiefs,chiefs, I that Grand Council Chief proposed in the Law Society of Upper Canada to discuss the evolution of Métis-First encourageencourage aallll AAnishinabeknishinabek November. We are working on a full Nations relations. “When that fi rst Metis baby was born, that baby was NationNation citizenscitizens toto supportsupport afternoon meeting in late February. taken to a First Nations lodge and nurtured by a First Nations woman,’ thisthis importantimportant projectproject ofof thethe In November Grand Council Chief said Beaucage. “ We share the same grandmothers and eventually we Beaucage and Chief Tom Bressette met DavidDavid SuzukiSuzuki Foundation.Foundation. shared the same grandfathers. We’re cousins. We’re family.” The Grand with offi cials from the Prime Ministers’ Chief encouraged Metis to make treaties with Canada to establish a Offi ce, Minister Prentices’ Offi ce, land base, a key milestone on the road to self-government. “If the Metis Page 14 Anishinabek News January/February 2007 Restoration of Jurisdiction Chiefs Committee guides our Nation’s constitution By Mike Restoule Option one was to use the cur- The details of the future An- rent status quo, that is, the First ishinabek Nation Central Govern- Nation Chiefs in Assembly would ment were discussed in a meeting be the legislative body. The posi- held at the Union of Ontario Indi- tions of Grand Council Chief and ans offi ce on December 13, 2006. the Deputy Grand Council Chief The Chiefs Steering Committee would be elected as they are now on Constitution Development by the Chiefs in Assembly. The comprised of Chief Patrick Ma- current Leadership Council, made dahbee, Chief Jim Bob Marsden up of two Chiefs from each re- and Chief Robert Corbiere met gion, would be continued. This with members of the Anishinabek Leadership Council is currently Nation Constitution Committee, elected regionally by the Regional Mary Laronde, Esther Gilbank, Chiefs in Assembly and it would Fred Bellefeuille, Dave Shawana evolve from the current board of Chief Robert Corbiere, Wikwemikong Unceded Indian reserve; Chief James (Jim Bob) Marsden, Alderville and Special Projects Coordinator, directors into the Executive body First Nation; and Chief Patrick Madahbee, Aundeck Omni Kaning are the Steering Committee that oversees Mike Restoule. of the central government. The the writing of the Anishinabek Nation Constitution. The committee met with Mike Restoule, Constitution The Constitution Commit- Leadership Council in Assembly Development Coordinator and other UOI staff who are charged with drafting the Nation’s constitution. tee presented four options for the would continue to make portfolio composition of the Anishinabek appointments internally as they do The third option would be to move from status quo government ernment. Views were exchanged Nation Government. It was ex- now. have general nation-wide elec- to options two or three. This pe- with regard to such things as plained to the Chiefs Steering Option two would be to use tions for the positions of Grand riod of time would allow citizens First Nation elections, delivery Committee that the Grand Council the current status quo as above but Council Chief and Deputy Grand to become familiar with having a of programs and services as well would be the legislative arm of the to have general elections, nation- Council Chief and have the Lead- central government in place and as what areas of judicial respon- Anishinabek Nation Government wide, for the positions of Grand ership Council regionally elected provide some time to consider the sibility the Anishinabek Nation and a Leadership Council would Council Chief and Deputy Grand by all citizens of the respective options to improve the effective- Central Government might pos- be the Executive body. A recom- Council Chief. In this option, the regions. In this model, two Lead- ness of the new government. sess. mendation for the judicial arm of Leadership Council (Executive) ership Council representatives Some of the meeting time was The Steering Committee di- the central government was not would remain to be established as in each region would be elected. dedicated to discussing what au- rected the Constitution Commit- made at this meeting. it is now. They would not necessarily be thorities might be delegated to tee to fi nd a way to use focus Chiefs or Councillors. the central government by the groups at the next Grand Council The fourth option presented First Nations and what roles vari- Assembly to deliberate the del- Capacity Development for consideration is to allow for ous advisory groups might play in egated authority of the central Workshops underway a transitional period of time to a new Anishinabek Central Gov- government. The fi rst of the 2006-07 Ca- bership and citizenship as ways Anishinaabe Gchi-Naaknigewin pacity Development Workshop of defi ning a First Nation. The An integral part of establishing a new gotiator, Martin Bayer, the terms of reference series entitled, “School Board issue of who is an Indian in ac- government is determining the structures were fi nalized. A brief explanation follows Trustee Training,” was held at cordance to federal law was necessary to administer the services that the here. Red Rock Indian Band. The examined and the federal gov- new government is to provide. The Anishi- Goal purpose of the workshop was ernments approach to defi ning nabek Nation Constitution Committee dis- The goal of the Governance Working to provide the participants an Indian Status. A chronology of cussed just that topic at their meeting held Group is to provide feedback and recommen- overview of the role and respon- legislation from 1850 to present at the UOI offi ces on November 17, 2006. dations to the Negotiations Team on the ad- sibility of school board trustees was looked at to see the different The Agreement in Principle on Governance ministrative structure and other components and the legal framework within events that occurred to basically recognizes that the Anishinabek Nation as a of the Anishinabek Nation Government. which school boards and trustees legislate and assimilate Indians. distinct legal entity with certain government Objectives operate. The facilitator, Tracey Of particular interest to the par- powers, capacity and rights. In consideration 1. Recommend law making powers for O’Donnell, developed an agenda ticipants was the 1985 Bill C-31 of that, the Committee deliberated on how First Nations and the Anishinabek Na- which included an Overview of which was to repeal discrimina- to develop the structures of the service-de- tion Ontario’s Education Laws and tory provisions to the Indian Act livery departments, the support mechanisms 2. Recommend administrative structures Regulations and Understand- such as those related to gender, and institutions that would need to be created for the following service departments: ing Education from a Trustee’s marriage and enfranchisement. within the government. fi nance and budgets, communications, View. Also included on the Along with this came the pos- Why try to re-invent the wheel, the legal, information technology, elections, agenda was an overview of the sibility to have status restored to committee decided. The method used in policy and government relations, citi- proposed Anishinabek Educa- those who had lost status under the development of the Anishinaabe Ki- zenship, judicial, audit and education. tion System developed by the previous legislation. The effect noomaagewin zhichigewin (Anishinabek 3. Recommend structure for any other Education Working Group. The of this legislation is beginning Education System) is the working group items identifi ed by the Negotiations participants were able to see to unfold as First Nations are method. This method served the needs of Team. how and where their communi- predicting that within fi fty years the Education negotiations very well and so Composition ties fi t into the proposed system there will be no more status In- it should be expected to do as well for the The Governance Working Group shall be in their particular region. I want dians in Canada. From that real- Governance negotiations. composed of twenty-four (24) members with to thank Rachel Taggart for help- ization it was evident that this is The working group process allows the particular expertise in the area of governance ing out with the planning of the no longer a topic of debate but a negotiations to go to the grassroots of the and shall be band members of the First Na- workshop and the community search for solutions. communities involved by engaging citizens tions that have approved the AIP on Gover- for hosting this event As well There are three, possibly four, directly into the building of the structures. nance and are supporting negotiations toward a special thanks goes out to our more workshops in this years se- The term Working Group is well understood a Final Agreement on Governance. caterer Norma Fawcett who kept ries. The three planned to-date by the citizens of the nation. So, why not call Each Participating First Nation will be us well nourished. are Assimilation and Sover- the group, Governance Working Group? And sent a background information package on The second of these work- eignty to be held in Pic River on what terms of reference would they work un- the AIP on Governance, as well a copy of the shops was held in Sault Ste Ma- January 23 & 24, 2007, Compre- der. Well, Education Working Group Coordi- proposed Terms of Reference for the Gover- rie with the topic being Mem- hensive Community Planning at nator, Dave Shawana came to the rescue with nance Working Group (GWG). Each PFN bership and Citizenship. The MnJikaning on February 6 & 7, a draft terms of reference for the Committee will then be asked to nominate one represen- purpose of this workshop was 2007 and the third one is entitled to consider. After a few tweaks by the Com- tative from their community to participate on to review the current issues and Youth Mentorship which will be mittee with the help of Governance Lead Ne- the GWG. challenges surrounding mem- held in Sudbury. January/February 2007 Anishinabek News Page 15 Restoration of Jurisdiction Indian Affairs Minister gets go-ahead to sign Governance Agreement-in-Principle

By Mary Laronde the AIP on Governance will set Council Resolutions (BCRs) to The federal Cabinet has en- a foundation that will help im- that effect. . dorsed the Anishinabek Nation prove the quality of life for An- Chief Federal Negotiator, Liz Agreeement-in-Principle With ishinaabe people. “The Anishi- Morin, said the AIP marks an im- Respect to Governance, authoriz- nabek Nation’s communities are portant milestone in the relation- ing the Honourable Jim Prentice, too frequently characterized by ship between the Government of Minister of Indian and Northern unacceptable high unemployment Canada and the First Nations of Affairs Canada to sign the agree- rates, poor health conditions, the Anishinabek Nation. “The AIP ment on behalf of the Government housing shortages, lack of water envisions a future in which many of Canada. An offi cial signing and sewer treatment systems and aspects of the Indian Act give way could will take place in February, less than satisfactory education to laws and institutions designed at the earliest. success rates. The AIP on Gover- by and for Anishinaabe people.” Grand Council Chief John nance provides and opportunity to Like Bayer, Morin sees the Beaucage applauded the negotia- do something about this. possibilities of the AIP on Gov- tors on completing this phase of “Recognition of our two levels ernance being a link to a better the negotiation process. “Discus- of government, better governing quality of life. “During the ne- sions of this nature always take processes, appeal mechanisms, gotiations, we heard Anishinaabe time and perserverence. The hard clarifying legal status – all these citizens speak passionately about work of our negotiator, Martin work together to create more in- their hopes for their children: for Bayer, and his federal counterpart, vestor certainty and confi dence good jobs, strong economies, and Councillor Wayne Beaver (left) and Chris Beaver were among 6 Liz Morin, is to be commended.” when entering contracts with First healthy communities. I believe Alderville First Nation citizens, including Chief James Marsden, “The AIP on Governance rep- Nations,” Bayer explained. that the AIP can help to set the that attended an information session on the Anishinabek Nation resents a signifi cant step for the Over the past 18 months, stage for that bright future.” Agreement-in-Principle With Respect to Governance on January 9. Anishinabek. It marks the begin- Bayer has made in-depth presen- The purpose of the Agree- Information sessions are held in First Nation communities to coincide ning of establishing our own gov- tations on the AIP on Governance ment-in-Principle is to provide a with negotiations. In his presentation, Anishinabek Nation Chief ernments under our own jurisdic- to Chiefs and Councils across the framework for the negotiation of Negotiator R. Martin Bayer, outlines the benefi ts attached to the AIP on tion and the elimination of the Anishinabek Nation, discussing a Final Agreement to: Governance. The information sessions and the negotiation meetings Indian Act. The Indian Act has the benefi ts it promises by mov- - establish a Anishinabek Nation are held in First Nation communities to provide an opportunity for held our people back too long. I ing away from the Indian Act. government to address issues of Anishinabek citizens to ask questions directly to the negotiators as well encourage more Anishinabek First “Two-year terms are too short. collective First Nation concern as to express their concerns and hopes for the new self-government Nations to join the governance Exercising our own jurisdic- and; arrangements. Usually, the Chief Federal Negotiator, Liz Morin, also intitiatives as a part of rebuild- tion, making our own decisions - provide for the exercise of ju- attends community information sessions to answer questions that may ing and unifying the Anishinabek - good and bad – this is key to risdiction and authority by par- be directed to Indian Affairs specifi cally. Nation,” said the Grand Council self-government. Right now we ticipating First Nations’ gov- Chief. have a limited range of out-dated ernments and the Anishinabek ensure that the draft AIP is accept- of federal departments with an The Anishinabek Nation’s by-law making powers and the Nation government. able to the parties they represent. interest in self-government, in- Grand Council authorized the Minister has fi nal approval,” he An Agreement-in-Principle For the Federal Government key cluding Privy Council Offi ce, Union of Ontario Indians to be- said. The AIP on Governance is is not legally binding. Only a steps and participants in the ap- Departments of Finance, Jus- gin self-government negotiations paves the way for recognition of Final Agreement is leaglly en- proval process are as follows: tice, and Canadian Heritage, with Canada in 1995. The Anishi- Anishinabek jurisdiction in basic forceable when it has been ap- Approval to initial AIP and Treasury Board Secretariat) nabek Nation Framework Agree- governance areas like leadership proved by First Nations’ citizens - INAC Policy Committee (Dep- Approval to sign AIP and ment on Governance was signed selection, language and culture, and brought into force by federal uty and Assistant Deputy Minis- negotiate Final Agreement in November 1998, and negotia- citizenship, and the management legislation. ters) - INAC Policy Committee tions towards an Anishinabek Na- and operation of First Nation and Federal Approval Process - Federal Caucus (technical offi - - Federal Caucus tion Agreement-in-Principle With Anishinabek Nation governments. Once Anishinabek Nation cials from federal departments) - Federal Steering Committee on Respect to Governance (“AIP”) To date, 25 First Nations have in- and federal government nego- - Federal Steering Committee on Claims and Self-Government began in 1999. dicated their support for continu- tiators agree on the content of the Claims and Self-Government - Federal Cabinet (Committee of Anishinabek Nation Chief ing negotiations based on the AIP AIP at the negotiating table, each (Assistant Deputy Ministers Federal Ministers) Negotiator, R. Martin Bayer said on Governance by issuing Band has to take a number of steps to Fort William joins list of AIP on Governance supporters By Mary Laronde entitled “Sovereignty and Nation- linked. He said that longer terms legal capacity, the First Nation deal with in our experience with Fort William has endorsed the building.” That study makes a of offi ce, comparable to the four- has had to defer to Indian Affairs the Bowater project. There are Agreement-in-Principle With convincing case that “sovereignty, year terms of offi ce for provincial for approvals and the project has a lot of environmental issues we Respect to Governance, making nation-building and economic de- and federal governments would taken too long, according to the have to deal with around industry the Northern Superior Region velopment go hand in hand.” make for more stable governance chief. and we could do this through the community the 25th First Nation Bayer tells how dependency at the First Nation level. “Most of “We don’t need Indian Af- central body.” ready to sign the Anishinabek Na- on other governments and lack of our communities are on the 2-year fairs’ guidance. All we need from The Band Council Resolution tion AIP on Governance. decision-making power discour- terms dictated by the Indian Act,” Canada is funding and our share issued on January 16 states that Fort William Chief Peter Col- aged U.S. tribes from doing long- he said. “Longer terms would help of our resources, according to the Fort William Chief and Coun- lins said his council decided to term strategic planning, but when as most projects take time to de- treaties.” cil supports continued negotia- support the AIP on Governance they had jurisdiction, and had to velop and implement.” Chief Collins said he believes tions with Canada toward a Final because it addresses many of the live with the consequences of “Having the right to make that establishing a central Anishi- Agreement and authorizes Grand issues his council grapples with on their decisions, they made better decisions for ourselves without nabek Nation Government would Council Chief John Beaucage to a regular basis. “We want to create decisions. According to the study, INAC would let us make quicker be “a positive step for all our com- sign the AIP on Governance on our own government and our own jurisdiction, effective and stable decisions based on the merits of a munities.” Some of the roles Chief its behalf. The Union of Ontario rules and regulations and set our institutions of governance, cul- proposal without all the red tape Collins sees for the nation-level Indians is planning for a possible own direction,” the chief said. ture, and long-term strategic plan- about who has authority over government are to get all commu- February 16 signing. In his presentation to First Na- ning were the common factors what,” he said. An agreement be- nities on the same timeframe for Fort William First Nation is tion councils, R. Martin Bayer, that separated successful tribes tween Fort William First Nation, elections and to create policies to located adjacent to the southern Anishinabek Nation Chief Ne- from those stuck in poor living Bowater Inc. and the federal gov- fi ll in regulatory gaps. “For exam- edge of the City of Thunder Bay, gotiator, emphasizes the link be- conditions. ernment will build a large, mod- ple, there is no environmental pol- along the north shore of Lake Su- tween self-government and eco- Chief Collins agrees that self- ern sawmill in the industrial park icy on lands and no environmental perior, with a total citizenship of nomic development, referring government, good governance owned by Fort William First Na- people in our communities. These approximately 1,700 and an on- to the Harvard University study and economic development are tion but without jurisdiction and were some of the issues we had to reserve population of over 700. Page 16 Anishinabek News January/February 2007 Anishinabemowin language language language language language First Ojibway word opened cultural door By Richard Wagamese me an inhabitant. I was 24 when the fi rst Ojibway Peendigaen. Come in. word rolled off my tongue. Welcome. This is where you It felt all round and rolling, not belong. I had never encountered like the spikey sound of English an English word that had that with all those resonance – one that could change hard-edged things so completely. consonants. After that I learned more When I said words. Then I struggled to put it aloud I felt whole sentences together. like I’d really These days I’m far from fl uent truly spoken and I still spend far more time for the fi rst using English but the Ojibway time in my talk sits there in the middle of life. my chest like a hope and when I I was use it, in a prayer, in a greeting, a toddler in a talk somewhere, I felt the when I was Richard same sensation as I did with that removed Wagamese fi rst word at 24 – the feeling of from my being ushered in, of welcome, of family and familiarity and belonging. if I spoke Ojibway at all then, it An English word I admire was baby talk and the language is “reclaim”. It means to bring Dreams of Unity never had a chance to sit in me and back, to return to a proper course. Acrylic on Canvas 36” x 48” by Mark Anthony Jacobson, Sioux Lookout grow. When I learned to speak Ojibway The Bear Clan medicine spirit world is the essence of this painting. Bear teacher rests after eating a quantity English became my prime I reclaimed a huge part of myself. of fi sh. He begins to fall asleep under the spell of satisfaction and contentment. Bear starts to dream and sees language and even though I It wasn’t lost, I always owned it, it himself changing form represented by the butterfl ies. Now astro-travelling, he sits by a council in the spirit world. developed an ease and facility with was just adrift on the great sea of Wolf Clan is represented teaching the necessity for global unity. Bear is also now communicating with an Elder, it, there was always something infl uence that is the modern world. a grand shaman in the spirit world. This grand shaman with wings represents his duty as wisdom keeper of the lacking. It never really quite felt And like a mariner lost upon seven generations to come. real, valid even. It was like a hazy foreign seas, I sought a friendly memory that never quite reaches shore to step out upon and learn to clarity and that leaves you puzzled walk again. My language became whenever it arises. When that fi rst that shore. MKWA: medicine keeper Ojibway word fl oated out from I have an Ojibway name now. I between my teeth, I understood. can ask important questions in my By Alan Corbiere Although this passage contains a very old and formal It was peendigaen – “come language. I can pray. February is called Mkwa Giizis (Bear Moon), so it may manner of English, the essence of the passage reveals that in.” Peendigaen, spoken with an For me, peendigaen, come be an appropriate time to write down some anecdotes our Nishnaabe ancestors honoured the bear and treated outstretched hand and a rolling of in, meant I could express myself about why and how Mkwa is honoured and respected in the slain bear as an intelligent being capable of noting the wrist. Beckoning. Come in. It as who I was created to be, and Nishnaabe culture. the condition of the Nishnaabeg. The Nishnaabe of the took a few years for the irony of that’s what this journey is all about Mkwa is seen to possess the attributes of strength, Bear clan also ate the bear. It was also recorded that upon that word to sink in. – to learn to express yourself as courage, and endurance. Mkwa is a medicine keeper killing the bear the Nishnaabeg immediately lit their pipes You see, that fi rst word who you were created to be. You because of his close relationship to the earth and all of his and blew the smoke of tobacco into the bear’s mouth. “digging around”amongst the various plants on this earth. opened the door to my culture. don’t need to be a Native person to Fifty plus years later, British Fur Trader, Alexander Mkwa is also a strong spiritual guide because he is the Henry, also witnessed the Nishnaabeg’s homage to a slain When I spoke it I stepped over understand that, just human. ultimate faster – fasting all winter long! The people of the bear. He noted that the Nishnaabeg addressed the bear the threshold into an entirely new bear clan are said to possess these innate characteristics as grandfather and gave the bear various gifts such as way of understanding myself and and therefore serve as medicine people, warriors and peace ribbons, cloth and tobacco. my place in the world. Until then Richard Wagamese is Ojibway keepers for the Nishnaabeg. The people of the bear clan The Nishnaabeg’s esteem, respect and love for I had been a guest in my own from Wabasseemoong First Nation have also been characterized as cantankerous (grouchy) the bear continues to today. Maude Kegg, an Ojibwe life, standing around waiting for in Northwest Ontario. He is the and often possess the physical attributes of a bear; namely elder from Minnesota, allowed the following story to be someone or something to explain author of ‘Dream Wheels’ and burly build and curly or “grizzled” hair. This is not to say published in a bilingual Ojibwe-English book of her life things for me. That one word made ‘Keeper’n Me’. that all people of the bear clan are burly and curly, it has called “Portage Lake: Memories of an Ojibwe Childhood”. just been noted by various observers that a majority of bear Here she recalls the utmost respect and dignity in which clan people tend to possess these physical characteristics. a slain bear was treated [this is an edited version of her In the early years of contact with Europeans, the story from page 172-173. Note that Ms. Kegg speaks Rez Bluez now heard Odawa categorized themselves into four main groups, one Minnesota dialect]. of which was the bear. This group was called the Kiskakon “Wii-ayaamagad iwidi. Wii-sagaswe’idiwag,” ikido Outaouais (French for Odawa). The word “kiskakon” a’aw nookomis. in three languages has been translated as “cut-tail” in reference to the bear’s “It’s going to be over there. They are going to have a short tail (for the legend, refer to the Ojibwe Cultural meeting over there,” my grandmother said. OHSWEKEN – The Aboriginal language teams who worked long Foundation’s legend/ storybook called “Why the bear has “Wii-maajaa’idim,” ikido. Gaawiin ninisidotawaasiin Peoples Television Network has hours on translating and narrating a short tail”). In those early years of contact the Jesuits amanj ekidogwen. begun broadcasting Rez Bluez these segments: wrote down their own observations of the Nishnaabeg’s “There’s going to be a funeral,” she said. I didn’t in three Aboriginal Languages: Anishnabe-Ojibwe: Isadore customs, traditions and stories. The following story of the understand what she was saying. Anishinabe-Ojibwe, Toulouse and Shirley Bear Clan is taken from the Jesuit Relations of 1723, (Vol. Iwidi inaabiyaan, ate ayi’iing imaa, miish imaa Mohawk and Cayuga. Williams 67, p. 157). aya’aa, makoshtigwaan imaa gii-atemagad. As part of APTN’s Mohawk: Audrey “The third family of the Outaouacks [Odaawaak] Then I looked the other way and there it was, a bear’s commitment to (Bomberry) Maracle attributes its origin to the paw of a Machoua – that is to head. preserving Aboriginal and Brian Maracle say, of a Bear; and they are called “the family of the Bear” Gii-wenda-mindido a’aw makwa, zenibaansan akina languages, the Cayuga: Rene but without explaining in what way they issued from it. gii-wawezhi’aawinden a’aw makwa. producers of Rez Bluez, Elaine Bomberry and Roronhakente Deer When they kill one of these animals, they make it a feast of The bear was just huge and was all decorated with Bomberry and Aaron Goldman, The hosting segments and its own fl esh; they talk to it, they harangue it, they say: “Do ribbons. ensured that all 13 one-hour shows comedy are also translated into the not have an evil thought against us, because we have killed It is not only in books, but it is also within living memory, were translated into the three languages. Editing and recording thee. Thou hast intelligence, thou seest that our children how the Nishnaabe honours the bear. So as February quickly Aboriginal languages. were done by Shawn Henry and are suffering from hunger. They love thee, and wish thee approaches, think not only of purchasing sweets, ribbons Nya:weh, Chi-miigwetch, Big Aaron Goldman. to enter into their bodies; is it not a glorious thing for thee and bows for your sweethearts and lovers, bear in mind the Thanks to our three Aboriginal Tuesdays at 9 p.m. to be eaten by the children of Captains [Chiefs]?” Nishnaabeg’s love for the bear. January/February 2007 Anishinabek News Page 17

Aboriginal OntarioOpen for Business www.aboriginalontario.com A Special Report on Economic Development by and Cedar furniture popular with Irish home-owners By Rick Garrick International.” In order to produce tables and benches it produces for a NAICATCHEWENIN FN – Kish- the order of adironack chairs, world-wide market. Gon-Dug Canada (KGD) continues benches, circular folding tables and KGD also sells their products to achieve one cedar success after “Tet et Tet” double chairs, Marinaro online at their website, www. another. plans to increase the workforce at kgdcanada.com, where photographs In addition to being awarded KGD’s 4,800 sq. ft. factory, which of their product line are posted. the 2006 Northern Ontario Business is located on-reserve about a 40- Although KGD began operations First Nations Business Award of minute drive west from Fort Frances in 2002, after Chief and Council Excellence, the Naicatchewenin in northwestern Ontario. developed the idea of manufacturing First Nation-owned cedar furniture “We have eight employees now,” outdoor furniture to increase self- Kish-Gon-Dug’s eight employees produce cedar furniture that sells all company has an order in the works Marinaro says, adding that those suffi ciency in the community, it over the world. for a distributor in Ireland, which eight employees, all band members, wasn’t until a visitor from the consumers. “The fi rst product was an curve.” KGD has also recently has already purchased 700 pieces of can produce 30 chairs per day, or Netherlands discovered their product adirondack chair,” Marinaro says. won an order for 200 swings from outdoor furniture. one sauna per week. “We’re looking that the business began to take off. KGD’s furniture currently retails a client of Adirondack & Beyond, “We were in Ireland three weeks at adding another shift.” “He was very interested with the for about 200 to 500 Euros (about a distributor located in the United ago,” says Tony Marinaro, director KGD is currently building about product,” Marinaro says. “It is all $300 to $700 Canadian), depending States. of operations for Naicatchewenin, a one sauna per month for Finn-Tastic handcrafted, a high-end product.” on the product and tax structure, “There is a lot of potential,” community of about 200 on-reserve Sauna, a Thunder Bay retailer/ With assistance from the visitor, in Europe, where it commands a Marinaro says, explaining that once band members, and KGD during wholesaler with clients in Thunder KGD designed a line of knockdown high profi le and price due to two they have delivered the swings to the Oct. 5 award ceremony. “We Bay, the Muskokas, southern outdoor furniture products that could selling points: it is handcrafted by the client, the client will be prepared signed a marketing and distribution Ontario, California and Florida, in be shipped effi ciently in containers First Nations people in their own to offer the production of their full agreement with Backwoods addition to the wide variety of chairs, to Europe and readily fabricated by community, and it is made out of product line to KGD. “The fi rst environmentally-friendly western order is the most important. When red cedar harvested from blow-down they see the quality ... we could end forests in British Columbia. up getting all fi ve products.” “It’s very high quality cedar,” The community of Marinaro says, “with small tight Naicatchewenin has been very knots.” supportive of KGD since it opened KGD’s cedar is selected by an for business. agent in B.C. and shipped in by “The future looks exciting for truck, and its furniture is shipped us here in Naicatchewenin First out in shipping containers by truck Nation,” Marinaro says. “It’s the Nipissing First Nation to Montreal, and then by container commitment of the leadership, the ship to Europe. employees and the community “There’s been lots of challenges,” members that keeps it going. That’s Job Posting Marinaro says. “It’s a big learning why it’s successful.” Anishinabek Nation Credit Union Economic Dev. ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Date: February 27th, 2007 6 x 8 Time: 7:00 pm Location: Garden River Community Centre

All members are encouraged to come and participate in the unique privilege of being a Credit Union member. Elections will be held for the following Board Member positions:  one from the Union of Ontario Indians  one from Garden River First Nation  and a member not representing any particular membership group Also . . .  one position on the Audit Committee  one position on the Credit Committee A complete agenda will be made available prior to the meeting and will include a presentation of the year end fi nancial reports for October 31, 2006, a sneak peek at the new website, refreshments, snacks and great prizes.

Director and Committee nominations will be accepted until February 23, 2007. For more information please contact the Branch at 705-942-7655 or 1-866-775-ANCU On behalf of the Board of Directors of Anishinabek Nation Credit Union in accordance with it’s bylaws and by resolution duly passed on January 12, 2007. Margaret Belleau, Corporate Secretary Page 18 Anishinabek News January/February 2007 Intergovernmental Affairs Supreme Court says B.C. Natives can hunt at night OTTAWA (CP) – A sharply- Tsartlip Indian Band on Vancouver was overly broad and couldn’t be province does not accord with were used by Vancouver Island divided Supreme Court of Canada Island, were apprehended after used to abrogate a treaty right. reality and is not, with respect, natives when their 19th-century has upheld the treaty right of a fi ring at a decoy deer set up by Night hunting isn’t necessarily a sound reason for limiting the treaty was signed. B.C. native band to hunt deer at conservation offi cers to trap dangerous in all circumstances treaty right,’’ wrote Justices Marie “The overarching principle, night, saying the practice isn’t people hunting illegally after dusk and in all regions of the province, Deschamps and Rosalie Abella for now fi rmly entrenched in our necessarily dangerous. with the aid of lights. they said. It could be justifi ed, for the majority. The three minority jurisprudence, is that public safety The 4-3 ruling could spark Morris and Olsen claimed example, in northern areas where judges, in a strongly worded enjoys pre-eminent status in similar treaty claims by bands they had a right, under a treaty daylight is limited in winter, or in dissent, said the judgment fl ies in matters of this kind,’’ wrote Chief elsewhere in Canada, although dating from the 1850s, to hunt at other places where the population the face of repeated fi ndings by Justice Beverley McLachlin and they may have to resolve any night. They lost that argument at is sparse. The legislature could lower courts that night hunting is Justice Morris Fish, co-authors of resulting disputes on a case-by- trial, when a lower court judge also limit the practice near inherently dangerous. the minority opinion. case basis. The decision overturns concluded the practice is inherently highways or built-up areas, they The danger is aggravated, The heavily-nuanced the convictions of Ivan Morris and dangerous and thus not protected suggested. they said, by the fact that hunters judgment does not apply to non- Carl Olsen on charges of violating by treaty. But the four judges in “To conclude that night now use high-powered rifl es and natives, who will continue to be the B.C. Wildlife Act. the Supreme Court majority ruled hunting with illumination is fl ashlights or spotlights – not the prohibited by provincial law from The men, members of the the B.C. law against night hunting dangerous everywhere in the torches, bows and arrows that night hunting. in brief No consultations, Alicia returns no mining activity Intergov- TORONTO (CP) – The province In the meantime, a court ernmental must write a blank cheque for injunction has halted work on the Affairs extensive consultations with the site, and Cutfeet said negotiations would like Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug have stalled. to welcome First Nation before any mining The province should not only back Alicia activity begins near the community, be paying for a full consultation McLeod, Treaty Research Coordinator. a spokesman for the remote before any mining activity begins, Alicia returns one year after giving northern Ontario community says. but that right should be enshrined in birth to her fi rst child – baby boy John Cutfeet said the province law so all aboriginals are consulted Ryder Amik Roland. Nipissing First Nation Fisheries Department workers Jeff McLeod didn’t consult the First Nation before prospectors go in search of (left) NFN biologist Richard Rowe (centre) and Rodney Beaucage when it allowed junior exploration gold, diamond and nickel in the Bullets owing (right) outside their offi ces in Garden Village. company Platinex Inc. to drill north, the First Nation argues. OTTAWA – About 14 First on land 600 kilometres north of This case is being closely Nations in Canada are waiting Thunder Bay, Ont. watched because the band is to settle claims for compensation Nipissing community Ontario is holding up challenging the Ontario Mining with the federal government that negotiations by refusing to pay Act on constitutional grounds, they fi led because they allege they for a full consultation on drilling which could impact the high hopes did not receive bullets and fi shing managing fi shery on the Big Trout Lake property, he many have for unlocking the twine from Ottawa a century ago. said. north’s natural resources. Sixteen First Nations By Perry McLeod-Shabogesic thrown out. While the proposed mining site Rick Bartolucci, Ontario’s originally fi led ammunition and NIPISSING FN – Harvesters from The right to manage the isn’t on reserve land, it is within minister for northern development twine claims, but two were settled Nipissing First Nation (NFN) fi shery has been at the heart of the aboriginal band’s traditional and mines, said he’s optimistic all in the 1970s, and the rest are have fi shed Lake Nipissing since these disputes. While Nipissing territory and could contaminate the sides will be able to resolve the still waiting for the claims to be time immemorial. wanted a shared-management community’s lake, Cutfeet said. dispute through negotiation. resolved. Many of the claims are Tribes from all over Turtle relationship with MNR, the “All we want to see ... is that While he wouldn’t talk about under review. Island would come and trade history and political climate was we have a say in what happens in whether the province will pay for for fi sh from their waters. For never conducive to this option. our territory that’s going to have a consultations with the First Nation website centuries this barter system for Today Nipissing has taken huge impact on our lives,’’ he said. because it is part of the ongoing fi sh was the mainstay of the a unique direction with the of the month “The lake is our livelihood. We eat legal dispute, Bartolucci hinted the Nipissing economy, with present- community decision to manage out of there. We drink water out of government won’t be writing any day Beaucage Park serving as the its own fi shery. Community there.’’ blank cheques any time soon. central trading location. members ratifi ed their fi rst-ever The freedom of various First set of fi sheries laws in 2005. Canadian Legal Information Institute Nations – including Nipissing Since then, Nipissing’s fi sheries – to practice this trade has been department has been working FIRST NATION challenged by the province of towards the goal of self-directed http://www.canlii.org/ Ontario, which claims the right management of the First Nation’s FORESTRY PROGRAM to manage the fi shery and dictate fi sheries on Lake Nipissing. CanLII’s goal is to make primary 2007/08 Ontario Proposal Guide and Application Form sources of Canadian law accessible for free when harvesting should be done. As part of this capacity- on the Internet. In the early 1960s and ‘70s building, Nipissing hired its own The First Nation Forestry Program is now accepting proposals the Ministry of Natural Resources fi sheries biologist, Richard Rowe, for funding assistance for fi scal year 2007/08. (MNR) and NFN fi shers played an honours biology graduate from ia staff a “cat and mouse” game on the the University of Western Ontario waters of Lake Nipissing. Many with over nine years of fi sheries The submission deadline is Allan Dokis times this game resulted in court experience on Lake Nipissing THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2007 at 4:00 pm. Director action, with decisions usually working for the Ministry of Jason Laronde favouring the First Nation Natural Resources. If you have not received your package directly from Natural Resource Management fi shers. The NFN Fisheries Resources Canada your may request a copy by contacting Council Coordinator This confrontational Department is now working hard Rick Greet or by accessing their website at (http://www.fnfp. Alicia McLeod relationship hit a low point toward positioning Nipissing First qc.ca) Treaty Research when a sting operation involving Nation as the leader of fi sheries Melissa Stevens cameras, helicopter surveillance management on Lake Nipissing. Rick Greet Treaty Research Clerk and undercover game wardens NFN will set its own management Manager - Aboriginal Forestry Programs Nadine Roach was conducted against Nipissing and assessment priorities, write Natural Resources Canada, Canadian Forest Service Forestry Coordinator by then MNR minister Mike its own management plan and Great Lakes Forestry Centre Harris. Over 100 charges were successfully regulate its own 1219 Queen St. East, Sault Ste Marie, Ontario, P6A 2E5 Barb Naveau Phone (705) 541-5592; http://www.fnfp.gc.ca; [email protected] Forestry Assistant laid but eventually all were fi shery. January/February 2007 Anishinabek News Page 19 Dnakmigziwin/Sports Champion archer dodged snakes to stay on target By Rick Garrick SAULT STE. MARIE – Sheila Madahbee hit the bull’s-eye at the 2006 North American Indigenous Games in Denver, Colorado this past July. “I hit some really good shots from long distance,” says Madahbee, a citizen of Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve. “I shot a bull’s-eye from 45 yards.” The Ontario Association of Archers’ 3D Ladies Hunter champion for the past two years, Madahbee placed fourth in her division at the 3D NAIG competition against almost 200 other shooters from all across Canada and the U.S. “It was hot,” she says, recalling temperatures hovering around 35 degrees Celsius throughout the competition. “There was no cloud cover, and no shade.” The archers shot four rounds over the 20-target 3D course, with targets at distances ranging from 1.5 to 50 yards over the three-day event. “3D archery is similar to golf,” says Madahbee, who received her fi rst bow as a present from her husband and got hooked on archery while attending university. “You move from target to target in groups of three to four shooters, and shoot at 3D foam animal-shaped targets from different Sheila pulls a Robin Hood distances.” Scores depend on how close the arrow is to the critical point Wikwemikong citizen Sheila Madahbee has won numerous awards and titles for her archery prowess. During on each target, with a bull’s-eye worth 10 to 12 points. this hunting competition event in Barrie she “Robin-Hooded” an arrow into an arrow previously imbedded in Although the Denver archery course was located about 6,000 to 7,000 the foam-fi lled wild boar target. feet above sea level, Madahbee didn’t have any problems with the high altitude, other than having to re-apply her sunscreen on a regular basis. “It had to be re-applied every 30 minutes because the sun was so intense,” she says. The archers also had to watch out for small cactuses, fi re ants and rattlesnakes as they shot their arrows. “The fi re ants were everywhere,” Madahbee says. “Luckily, I didn’t see any rattlesnakes.” But she had a scare once when a snake went past her. “I was looking at the tail to make sure it wasn’t a rattler,” she recalls. “Somebody told me to shoot it, but my bow was on the other side of the snake, where I had placed it earlier.” Madahbee, who was sponsored by OPSEU Local 605 and her co- KinaGbezhgomi Child workers at the Ministry of Natural Resoruces offi ce in Sault Ste. Marie, enjoyed her NAIG experience and is now planning to attend the Canadian & Fam Services championships this summer. Exe Director 6 x 8 Little NHL 4 x 6 Page 20 Anishinabek News January/February 2007 Bell Canada 9th Annual Veterans Memorial Golf Tournament

This year we present Senator Frank and Peter Mahovlich along with NHL great Johnny Bower as our guests. Our usual gang of athletes will also be on hand featuring Larry Keenan, Wayne King, Bob Baum, Paul Markle, Dave Hutchison and Pierre Pilote.

HAWK RIDGE GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB, Orillia, Ontario Wednesday, June 20, 2007.

REGISTRATION The registration cost will be $200.00 per golfer and your registration must include payment to guarantee your team or individual registration. Your registration covers green fees, cart, dinner and some great prizes. Registration for the event will start at 12 noon and the tournament will start at 1:00 p.m. sharp. Please register early to avoid disappointment and help support the great work of the Anishinabek Nation 7th Generation Charity. There are only 144 spots available.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Register by sending your payment to Les Couchie P.O. Box 711, North Bay, ON, P1B 8J8, Ph: 705-497-9127; 877-702-5200 Email: [email protected]

Best Western Great Northern Sponsored by: Bell Canada, Best Western Great Northern, Carte Blanche, CMHC, Creative Impressions, TransCanada, Westmont. January/February 2007 Anishinabek News Page 21 Kinoomaagewin Education

citizens the opportunity to comment on the proposed internal Local feedback incorporated agreements that will be established between PFNs and the central education body of into education system proposal the Anishinabek Education System. NIPISSING FN – Education standards and curriculum. The of Jurisdiction Project and its Working Group members have The main intent of system will be parallel to, but Education Working Group. the internal agreements further refi ned the elements to the separate from the provincial Anishinabek Nation Grand proposed Anishinabek Education would determine what education system, while still Council Chief John Beaucage told authority would be System based on feedback received providing participants that the establishment from Anishinabek citizens who delegated from the PFNs for the of a unique education system was to the Kinomaadswin attended the education symposium smooth a key component of the nation- held in October in Sault Ste Education Body, transfer of building process. “We are not how fi scal transfer Marie. students building from scratch, we are Political leaders and educators payments from Canada from on- building on the foundation of will be distributed to First from across Anishinabek reserve the knowledge of our Elders, our Territory participated in an Nations, and what fi nancial schools language and our traditions. In accountability mechanisms Oct. 3-5 symposium called to schools our schools, Anishinaabemowin “Anishinaabe Kinomaadswin would need to be in place. operated will be the primary language and Education Working Group Nongo – Anishinaabe Pane,” by Ont- English will be the secondary which translates to “Anishinaabe members have incorporated these ario’s Grand Council Chief language.” revisions into proposals to be Education Today – Forever Ministry Some of the subsequent Anishinaabe.” John Beaucage negotiated with Canada, as well as ...... of Edu- symposium feedback suggested identifying penalties in the event of First Nations jurisdiction over cation. changing the regional governing education and the establishment of any breaches to the agreements. Anishinabek First Nations structures in order to better refl ect In the coming months the the Anishinabek Education System have been administering education those Participating First Nations i working group and lead negotiators relationship have been under negotiation with programs and services on-reserve (PFNs) that deal with the same will be responding to numerous between the proposed Anish- Canada for over a decade, and a since 1972, but legislative District School Boards. There requests for presentations, and the inabek Education System and the vote on a fi nal agreement by the 42 authority and policy have remained are now fi ve Regional Education Communications Working Group Provincial Education System. Anishinabek member communities with Indian and Northern Affairs Councils (RSCs) versus the will be tailoring information related A Special Education is expected to take place as early as Canada. seven originally proposed. The to the Education Final Agreement Committee will be working with September 2007. The Anishinabek The Sault symposium included participants of the symposium also into presentations targeting three the Anishinabek Nation head Education System is expected to discussions on topics including the agreed that the “Regional School groups: First Nations leadership, negotiation table in to discuss be fully operational when school governance structure and fi nancial Council” (RSC) title should be community members, and colleges issues of special education and opens in September 2008. accountability of the proposed changed to “Regional Education and universities. funding requirements in order to The proposed system will Anishinabek Education System. Council” (REC) because not all The goal of these presentations meet the needs of First Nations promote Anishinaabe language The event was hosted by the Union PFNs operate schools. will be to continue the consultation students within the Anishinabek and culture and develop its own of Ontario Indians’ Restoration The symposium also offered process by providing up-dates Education System and the and soliciting feedback from Provincial Education System. Anishinabek citizens in order to This will be a negotiation issue fi nalize proposed elements of the with Canada. Anishinabek Education System. And a Capital Assessments During the coming year the Committee will be assessing band- Education Working Group will also operated schools on First Nations, be facilitating meetings involving and determining the costs to bring representatives of the Anishinabek these facilities up to code. This Nation and the Province of Ontario amount will also be a negotiation Georgian College in order to establish a working item with Canada. Display recruitment AnishinaabeKinomaadswin Nongo - Anishinaabe Pane Anishinaabe Education Today - Forever Anishinaabe!

6 x 6 About the logo . . . The logo created for the Anishinabek Education System (AES) is meant to symbolize the beliefs and values of Anishinabek. The Four Colours in the centre circle represent Anishinabek communities and all who live in them: children, youth, adults and Elders. It represents Anishinaabe knowledge – the Anishinaabe world-view or thought. The Bear paw is symbolic of the protection and strength that language and culture provide, like a mother Bear provides for her cubs. It also speaks of healing for the Anishinabek. The Eagle is representative of the spiritual connection to all of creation and the responsibility of Binaase to provide for the education of the people. In all its meanings the logo captures the traditional and modern belief that education is a parental and community responsibility. .anishinabek Page 22 Anishinabek News January/February 2007 Kinoomaagewin/Education

Kinomaadswin Education Body

Anishinabek Education System This map identifi es the fi ve regional education councils that will comprise Anishinaabe Kinomaadswin – the Anishinabek Education System proposal being negotiated between the 42-member communities of the Anishinabek Nation and the government of Canada. A vote on a fi nal agreement to restore educational jurisdiction for elementary and secondary school education to the Anishinabek is expected to take place as early as September, 2007. Kinomaadswin is expected to be fully operational for the school year beginning in the fall of 2008 offering curricula and standards of Anishinaabe design, and promoting Anishinaabe language and culture. Cossette Media Elections Canada - French 6 x 6 ONECA Education 4 x 4.5 January/February 2007 Anishinabek News Page 23 Kinoomaagewin/Education Manitoulin sent spuds to Ireland Paramedic course By Brad Robinson & Shirley as potatoes, corn and rice were Honyust European imports – all originated on a real life-saver SUDBURY – Think that all university Turtle Island. Samuel de Champlain MUNCEY – Ross Kechego in a chair in severe distress, educators are aware of the myths about recorded in his memoirs that he took didn’t waste any time putting his experiencing shortness of Aboriginal history? Think again! potatoes to Ireland from this area, paramedic training to the test. breath and chest pain. Within That was the message Dominic and wrote that he was amazed by the Kechego, one minutes, he collapsed Beaudry brought to an audience of agricultural abilities of the Anishinabe of 14 students who to the fl oor and was faculty, staff and students at Fraser people. enrolled in September unresponsive. Auditorium in November. Dominic Manitoulin Island, said Beaudry, Beaudry B.A., B.A., B.Ed., M.A is was a thriving and prosperous in a Paramedic After several CPR the Education Director at Wasse-Abin community. Ships were fi lled with Diploma program attempts, the man High School in Wikwemikong, and he maple sugar and fi sh packed in brine. at the Anishinabek fi nally responded says that First Nations peoples were Over 400,000 pounds of maple sugar Educational Institute’s and Kechego drove Dominic Beaudry not the passive participants they are were manufactured on Manitoulin Munsee-Delaware him to the nearest often made out to be in the history of Anishinabek people resided in the Island and brought in a signifi cant campus, is credited Ross Kechego hospital within 15 books. Great Lakes region, and hunters and amount of money for a community of with saving the life of minutes, after having His research of the historic Three fi shermen produced maps of their its size. his part-time employer. telephoned ahead relevant Fires Confederacy of Ojibway, Odawa, travels on birch bark which were very When looking at the history of On Nov. 13, Kechego, from medical information as outlined and Pottawatomi indicates that there intricate, even compared with today’s First Nations people you have to look Chippewas of the Thames, in his paramedic course. was a larger political infrastructure global positioning systems. at their ability to adapt to changing arrived at his workplace in a Kechego’s boss has since than historically recorded. Manitoulin Chiefs understood that the circumstances, he said. They became small town north of London and returned home after receiving a Island was a focal point and chiefs territories were available for their coopers –barrel-makers—in an era found his boss slumped over pacemaker. would come from great distances to exclusive use, and long-term strategic of 100% employment – everyone meet and discuss important issues of planning was used to ensure fi nancial worked. the time. stability and viability from the island’s Steamship captains were often Native counsellors can upgrade Birch bark canoes, once thought resources. The chiefs wanted to secure Ojibway, since they knew the only to have primarily been built all of the territory to build schools, terrain before the invention of sonar SUDBURY – In addition to offering the Native Counsellor Training Program near the St. Lawrence River, were and other community structures. navigation instruments. Fuelling (NCTP) in July 2007 which is a Ministry of Education certifi cate program, later discovered to be manufactured Beaudry also exposed another stations were located along shorelines the Ontario Native Education Counselling Association (ONECA) will be on Manitoulin Island. Vast numbers myth – that such major food staples and were operated by Native people. providing an opportunity for former graduates of the NCTP to upgrade their skills. ONECA will be introducing an enriched NCTP specifi cally designed as a refresher course for graduates. The program will be offered over the course of fi ve weeks at Laurentian University during July-August. Former students who graduated under an articulation agreement can return to class and obtain the courses required for Ministry of Education Certifi cation. The enriched program will run concurrently with the Native Counsellor Training Program, providing an opportunity for students to collaborate, share their experiences and knowledge with each other. For more information contact the ONECA offi ce at (705) 692-2999 or CESO email [email protected] Job Posting 6 x 6 ONECA 4” x 4.5”

ANISHINABEK EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTE September 2007 programs Quality Education and Training Programs for First Nation Communities NIPISSING NCCD MENTAL HEALTH & ADDICTIONS MUNSEE-DELAWARE On-campus THUNDER BAY – Fort William Site NATIVE EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION SOCIAL SERVICE WORKER (Distance Delivery Programs) P.O. Box 711 MAINTENANCE MANAGEMENT NCW TRADITION ABORIGINAL HEALING NATIVE CARE & COUNSELLING & DEVELOPMENT North Bay, ON P1B 8J8 OFFICE ADMINISTRATION METHODS NATIVE EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION Phone: 705-497-9127 BACHELOR OF ARTS Fax: 705-497-9135 NEWBACHELOR OF ARTS NEW Email: [email protected] Page 24 Anishinabek News January/February 2007

Native Studies ad full color

Full color January/February 2007 Anishinabek News Page 25

Native Studies ad full color Page 26 Anishinabek News January/February 2007 Kinoomaagewin/Education

the gap between Aboriginal and boards, and improving literacy and to build partnerships with non-Aboriginal students. These numeracy skills among Aboriginal Aboriginal communities and Ontario investing strategies include resources to students. organizations, and to integrate support teaching strategies that are In addition, the framework First Nations, Métis and Inuit in Native strategy appropriate to Aboriginal learner sets out strategies to encourage peoples’ histories, cultures and needs, increasing the number of more parent involvement, build perspectives throughout the SAULT STE. MARIE, Ont. (CP) recognizing and meeting the Aboriginal staff working in school capacity within school boards Ontario curriculum. – The Liberal government is educational needs of First Nations spending $6 million to launch its students. aboriginal education strategy. “We look forward to working Education Minister Kathleen with the Ontario government Wynne says the strategy was on the implementation of this designed to help improve framework.” opportunities for First Nations, The new First Nations, Métis Metis and Inuit students. Wynne and Inuit Education Policy said it will help aboriginals with Framework will set the foundation their education whether they live for improving achievement among in remote areas of Ontario or in Aboriginal students in provincially- urban centres. funded schools and encourage The goal is to improve literacy more parents to get involved in and numeracy skills among their children’s education. aboriginal students in provincially- Mario Turco, Director of funded schools. Education, Algoma District School The plan also calls for Board, said the strategy “will also an increase in the number of benefi t non-Aboriginal students as aboriginal staff in schools, and they learn more about the culture will integrate First Nations content and perspectives of Aboriginal and perspectives throughout the peoples in Ontario.” curriculum. The framework includes Ontario Regional Chief Angus strategies for schools and school Toulouse calls the new policy boards that will boost Aboriginal ``a positive fi rst step’’ towards student achievement and close Univ. of Western Health Sciences M’chigeen 6 x 11.75 First Nation

4” x 8” January/February 2007 Anishinabek News Page 27 Kinoomaagewin/Education Course for work or college TORONTO – Seneca College’s new Centre for Outreach Education has Women aiming to displace launched its fi rst class of aboriginal students designed to equip aboriginal youth with strategies and skills to overcome barriers to employment. Graduates use the skills and the college credential acquired in the eight-month program to enter the workforce or pursue further higher education. aboriginal ‘helicopter research’ By Shirley Honyust Laurentian University faculty; Susan have the nice meal!). We discussed SUDBURY – The Anishinaabe Manitowabi, MSW, Laurentian the racist, explosive language that has Kweok Research Network is a University; Caroline Recollet, Social been used in research to date, and the working group of Aboriginal women Planning Council in Sudbury; and failure of the non-Native perspective promoting research with First Nations Nicole Melanson, student. to understand our history in regard to communities who held their fi rst Chief Miigwans pointed out the colonization, assimilation practices, meeting at Fielding Memorial Park to connection between research, policy disrespect and disregard for treaties, share their knowledge and experience and good decision-making. Agnes residential school, and the legacy of for the purpose “doing, fi nding and Mandamin shared her unpublished its effects. supporting research collected by research paper which focussed Eurocentric methods must Indigenous people.” This approach is on the dire lack of research being be abandoned. What is the point TCI for designed to ensure that research will done by Aboriginal people, and the of research developed from non- become the property of First Nation obvious need Aboriginal people studying us? They communities, and is used for their for it. Ghislane see only through their own frame of benefi t, not simply to pad the budgets Goudreau from reference. We have been objectifi ed. Lakehead of well-heeled, over-paid government Garden River Their past writings have been bureaucrats. First Nation exploitive and focus on the negative- From the Western perspective, incorporated -this negativity has been fl ung back research in First Nations communities traditional at us with little understanding of University is scientifi c – observed from a distance. teachings into the the importance of our languages It has been referred to as “helicopter thesis she wrote or worldviews. Growing up in the research” – the researchers get fl own for her Masters Sheila Hardy Aboriginal community and knowing in, get what they want, and fl y out again of Science who you are makes a difference in your Jobposting just as quickly. This linear approach degree and used that opportunity to perception. It isn’t just “in the blood”. to research clashes with First Nations’ do her research on Drum Teachings. Insiders, that is researchers who work identity and way of doing things. We After using tobacco and praying for inside their own communities, have like a nice meal, good speakers, and a guidance, a vision came to her in a to be wary of making generalizations. 4 x 12 bit of fun. dream--she knew then in her heart Can we be an insider and an observer? Presenters included Chief Theresa and mind that the drum would be her This is one of the hard questions we Miigwans, Whitefi sh Lake First focus. have to answer in order to be included Nation; Sheila Hardy, BScN, MBA, As women we gather research in our own network. chairperson of Anishinaabe Kweok in creative ways. For many of us In 1992, a group gathered in Alberta Research Forum; Professor Cindy knowledge came as part of our formal to discuss the Royal Commission on Baskin, Ryerson University; Agnes education at university or college. Aboriginal Peoples and the research Mandamin, Aboriginal Researcher; Prior to that our Elders, ancestors, already done on Aboriginal people. Ghislaine Goudreau, MSc, Health families, friends and others helped us There an Elder said “If we have been Promotions Worker, Sudbury Public build our knowledge base as we were researched to death, maybe it’s time Health Unit; Raven Plante, Urban growing up. we got researched back to life!” Since Aboriginal Youth Leading The Way; We talked about the methods that then, a new generation of Aboriginal Vivian Recollet, Health Promotions we used traditionally and still use today researchers share the perception that Worker, Shkagamik-Kwe Health to communicate that knowledge, and if research doesn’t lead away from Centre; Taima Moeke-Pickering, how these methods differ from non- colonization and toward our own Indigenous Researcher, New Zealand, Aboriginal techniques (always, we ways, it is not worth doing.

Cossette Media Elections Canada - English 6 x 6 Page 28 Anishinabek News January/February 2007

First Annual Grand Council Chief Student Excellence Awards

A ccommitteeommittee ooff EEducationducation CounsellorsCounsellors willwill sselectelect ffourour sstudents,tudents, ttwowo fforor EEducationducation ExcellenceExcellence andand twotwo forfor Volunteerism.Volunteerism. OneOne malemale andand oneone femalefemale forfor eacheach category.category.

TheThe selectedselected sstudentstudents wwillill rreceiveeceive ttravelravel eexpensesxpenses ttoo aattendttend tthehe eevent,vent, wwhichhich ttakeake pplacelace duringduring thethe GrandGrand CouncilCouncil AssemblyAssembly JuneJune 2727 inin AldervilleAlderville FirstFirst NNation.ation.

ThereThere aarere ttwowo ccategoriesategories uundernder wwhichhich ttoo aapply:pply:

OutstandingOutstanding AcademicAcademic Achievement—MaleAchievement—Male aandnd FFemaleemale OutstandingOutstanding CommunityCommunity Volunteerism—MaleVolunteerism—Male aandnd FFemaleemale

StudentsStudents mustmust bbee aattendingttending a PPost-Secondaryost-Secondary IInstitutionnstitution aass ooff 22006/07.006/07.

TOTO APPLY:APPLY: ToTo applyapply pleaseplease sendsend a letterletter ooff ssupportupport fromfrom yyourour ccommunityommunity EEducationducation Counsellor,Counsellor, youryour latestlatest aacademiccademic ggradesrades aandnd a bbriefrief hhistoryistory ooff yyourour aacademiccademic aachievementschievements aandnd youryour volunteervolunteer hhistory.istory.

PleasePlease nnoteote tthathat tthehe ssponsorshipsponsorships areare notnot yetyet ffinalizedinalized bbutut ttheyhey mmayay iincludenclude scholarshipsscholarships andand otherother awards.awards.

Les Couchie For more information: PH: 705 497 9127 ext. 2231, or 877 702 5200 EMAIL: [email protected]