W8BANAKI PILASKW

ODANAK NEWSPAPER VOLUME 14 - NUMBER 1 spring 2019

The Forum “REJOIN THE CIRCLE & CELEBRATE EARTH DAY”: a great success for the 2nd edition!

Word from the Chief This year, to celebrate the Abenaki culture and our relationship to the Earth, Kwei fellow band members, these areas interest you and you the following themes were addressed: would be interested in participating in language, traditional knowledge It continues to be of great the developmental process please let through Abenaki motifs and symbolism importance that we look at how our your council know. as well as the main clans, the territory, community can meet the dramatic genealogical lines, history of Abenaki shift in our political and At the same time as this shift in people, fishing and medicinal plants. administrative structures. The governance is happening there is also Canadian government continues on its another variable that we have to quest to dismantle Indian affairs. This address and consider. The Bill S-10 means that they are gradually case is entering phase 2 of its process. The Organizing Committee relinquishing governance over the This has the potential to increase our Luc, Marco, Suzie, Nicole, Annie, Hélène status system. They have not been Band membership in substantial ways. and Florence clear about how their fiduciary Again, I bring up for thought; “How responsibility will change. For the time can we sustain the fiduciary load this Kwaï mziwi, being the focus is on status, will bring to our limited budgets?” jurisdictional laws and policies. The second edition of the Forum In the coming years we will be “Rejoin the Circle and Celebrate Earth On Earth Day, April 21, a We have in the past been quite moving towards a 10-year grant Day” was held on April 20 and 21, 2019 presentation on the Ndakinna theme successful at assessing what we want program, which will require careful in Odanak. The activities of this event was much appreciated and was followed for our community with respect to planning to provide for and ensure were offered to all , members by a great sharing circle that was jurisdictional laws. This was evident in sustainable community growth for the of the Odanak and Wôlinak bands, their particularly moving. On this occasion, the hard work necessary to address duration. Moreover, we will see families and their spouses. we had the opportunity to speak to issues in the area of Matrimonial Laws restructuring of our budgets that will deliver our impressions and share the for our people; the document bring cuts and reorganization of experience of this forum. Preceded by a produced was the fruit of a working priorities to ensure sustainability of tribute to the water, it was under a hot sun that we walked the streets of group of community members. While necessary services and resources. Odanak to celebrate Earth Day. it respected our values it also brought First and foremost we need to ensure fairness in the case of divorce and that collective priorities be respecting and protecting all addressed. I cannot repeat it enough concerned. that we must look at community economic development and how we The process of building our can build a viable economic base to governing infrastructure is at the ensure our community has a forefront of our current issues. The sustainable financial pool. Ensuring The members of the organizing continuance of the process of the growth and development and committee (Luc, Marco, Suzie, Nicole, development of jurisdictional laws and contributing to your local businesses Annie, Hélène and Florence) are very policies is now including; child care, is one way our community members proud of the participation of the The committee wishes to thank wills and testaments, cannabis, can contribute to the sustainability of members in this forum. Indeed, more Xavier Watso for leading the Forum, the policing and bylaws as well as our business sector. We must work than sixty participants attended the Kiuna Institution for the sharing of their property and land management, to together to build our community and various workshops, meals, puppet show premises, the Grand Conseil de la Nation name a few. Developing policies and leave a solid foundation and effective and the emotional Saturday evening Waban-Aki for its contribution, the procedures that are fair to all framework for the next generations. activities. Nicole O'Bomsawin and the Abenakis of Odanak Council for their concerned and that respect and group Flying Sturgeons made us vibrate financial support as well as all the reflect our distinct values is the main In peace and friendship, to the sound of the drum. An evening speakers for sharing their knowledge! objective in these processes. If any of Chef Rick O’Bomsawin that will be engraved in everyone's Kchi wliwni mziwi! memory! 2

Word from Councillors

programming, which was held in On February 9, the Winter Odanak on April 20 and 21, 2019. Carnival organized by the FNCFS I would like to take this was held. Several activities were opportunity to thank the Abenakis on the program, including boot of Odanak Council and the Grand hockey, a Snake game, Zumba, a Conseil de la Nation Waban-Aki yogurt bar, a community dinner for their financial support, without offered by Caroline Cardin and which this activity could not have draws and prizes. Afterwards, the been realized over the last two day ended under a rain of years. fireworks! Thank you to the FLORENCE BENEDICT partners who helped make this day Councillor In addition, my congratulations a success: the Grand Conseil de la to the organizing committee, Nation Waban-Aki, the Abenakis Kwaï, whose members include: Nicole of Odanak Council, the Odanak O'bomsawin, Suzie O'Bomsawin, Health Centre, the FNCFS and the A hard winter is giving way to Annie O'bomsawin-Bégin, Hélène Odanak Environment and Land spring. How can we not rejoice? O'bomsawin, Marc-Olivier Office. Despite a cold and endless winter, O'bomsawin (Marco) and Luc the daily lives of community and O'bomsawin. And a special thank March 12 was a very special day council members have followed you to all the volunteers. as we had a nice visit to our their course. “Awikhiganigamikok” library. We FAQNW Biennial Meeting | are fortunate to have a group of NATIVE WOMEN March 24, 2019 twelve people from the Nicolet- (QNW): Yamaska Persons with Disabilities As official representative of the About fifteen members attended Association, including three Odanak community within the the FAQWN biennial meeting community workers, including Ms. FAQNW group since September during which several topics were Joanny Gill, a member of our 2018, I have been quite busy with discussed. The main issues were community. A presentation of the this file. Here is a brief summary of the amendments to the FAQWN “Nomadic Museum” was given by the activities I took part in as part Laws and Regulations Guide, such Mr. Samuel Bergeron, Head of the bus. In short, young and old of my duties. as the local representative’s term Animation at the Musée des had fun. Thank you to Nathalie of office, which now ranges from Abénakis, followed by a group Cardin, from the Department of Meeting with all local 2 to 3 years, the youth dinner. The children of Raymonde Education for holding this activity representatives of FAQWN | representative’s term and the Nolett's group, head of the First and to Mr. Guy Trudeau for taking January 18 to 20, 2019 elders representative which went Nations Head Start Program us to . from 2 to 1 year. These changes (FNHSP), then joined us in the During this meeting, the take effect immediately. afternoon to watch a film about discussions revolved around the Abenaki dances. It was a beautiful Descheneaux case as well as Below is a retrospective of the day. remaining inequalities. For the issues and activities I've been occasion, we had the privilege of involved in as councillor. speaking with two important activists, Pamela Palmater and On January 28, an information Sharon McIvor, two distinguished session organized and led by defenders of Aboriginal rights. Éducaloi and dealing with Aboriginal successions and wills was held. The activity, which took place at the Band Council, offered interesting content, but several questions remained unanswered. That's why we plan to offer another information session, this time with better-equipped and qualified departmental representatives on Aboriginal Sha'tetiónkwate public forum | issues. We will give you the date of February 16 and 17, 2019 this event later through the mail.

We travelled to downtown Montreal to participate in the Equality March, organized by FAQWN, to claim Aboriginal women’s right to equality. Our great Lady also 48 participants and I had the took part. Thank you to the people pleasure of participating in the In closing, I want to wish you a who joined us for the occasion. visit of the Montréal Science beautiful summer season. We are Forum “Reformons le cercle / Centre on March 31. During this awaiting your presence to celebrate Rejoin the Circle” | April 20-21, day, we visited various showrooms our 60th edition of the Odanak 2019 thanks to which the children had a Pow Wow, which will be held on lot of fun while testing the July 5, 6 and 7. Odanak Native Women material at their disposal. We contributed to the logistical ended the day with an IMAX koala Look after yourselves and we'll support and participated in the film screening and had the chance talk again in the fall! development of the “Reformons le to participate in the raffle of many Cercle / Rejoin the Circle” forum door prizes on the way home on Wli wni. 3

Word from Councillors

Aboriginal wills and estates. If you friendly setting with the elders of Yamaska. 28 people attended and could not be present during the their community. We had a enjoyed a delicious traditional presentation or if you still have pleasant time! meal. A real treat! questions related to this subject, I would like to congratulate please consult the following page Theresa Watso on the success of on the Council’s website: the Bake Sale she organized to https://caodanak.com/en/wills- raise donations for Relay For Life. estates/. Everyone prepared a dish of their On February 9th, the 2019 own which Theresa could sell to edition of the Odanak Winter the public. CLAIRE O'BOMSAWIN Carnival took place. On site, young To end the month of March, a Councillor and old could participate in nutritionist from the Health Centre various activities both indoor and came to the Musée des Abénakis outdoor such as boot hockey, snow to give a lecture on veganism. It Kwaï dear members, snake, zumba, etc. It ended with a was interesting to discover a new magnificent fireworks display type of diet. Here is a summary of the behind the family hall. Finally, on April 20th and 21st, activities I enjoyed participating in Congratulations to the organizers! the Forum Rejoin the Circle & with our community elders over Then, to everyone's delight, the Celebrate Earth Day took place. the last few months. elders’ yoga classes offered by the These were two rejuvenating days First, the basket weaving Odanak Health Centre began at for all generations. Abenaki workshops started last January. In the end of February. Classes are members living outside the addition to being exciting, this craft given right after our traditional On March 16th, the Odanak communities were also invited to activity allows elders to pass on Tuesday luncheons. Around ten Health Centre offered the join us to discuss the various issues their know-how to future people participate in these very opportunity to a dozen people to facing our Nation. Several generations. I would like to take interesting and stimulating classes. visit the Expo Manger santé et interesting workshops and this opportunity to highlight the Moreover, more and more people vivre vert at the Palais des congrès conferences were also offered. good work carried out by Dianne are attending Tuesday's luncheons in Montreal. The purpose of this Thank you to everyone who made and Annette Nolett, who share at the Alnobaï8 hall and we greatly exhibition was to promote healthy this precious moment of sharing their knowledge week after week. appreciate it. eating, ecology and overall health. possible. Then, on February 19th, we It was a very interesting activity In closing, I wish you a beautiful At the end of January, were warmly welcomed by the and appreciated by everyone. end of spring and a wonderful community members were invited Wôlinak Abazi group to share a Also in March, we visited the beginning of summer! to attend a workshop on lunch and then exchange in a Durocher sugar shack located in

Do not miss the Odanak Powwow, to be held on July 5-6- 7th, 2019, in Odanak. This year is the 60th edition; 60 years of celebrating our common heritage. It’s an invitation to all of those who still wants to express their Native pride.

JACQUES T. WATSO www.powwowodanak.com or on Councillor Facebook: Powwow Odanak.

First of all, I attended a meeting with the Hydro-Québec Crown Corporation regarding the construction of an interconnection line between Hydro-Québec's electricity network and that of to increase the capacity of exchange between Quebec and . We took the opportunity to evaluate the possibility of doing business with ALAIN O'BOMSAWIN them, but unfortunately, as their Councillor contracts amount to more than $ 500,000 minimum, the likelihood Kwai, that this partnership will occur is hopes that the experience will Odanak Got Talent, as well as all very low. continue in future years. the participants! It was a pleasure Hello to all, On a completely different topic, Concerning the church's file, to attend this first edition. I I had the chance to meet one of the some adjustments were made to particularly want to congratulate Here is a summary of the representatives of the Consulate the residence of our missionary François Bergeron and Co. for activities I have had the pleasure of General of Mexico during his visit pastor to improve the living room winning the Jury Prize. participating in over the last few to our community. He was very and bedroom. months as well as the files I am satisfied with the student exchange Finally, I would like to In closing, I wish you all a working on as a councillor. with the Kiuna Institution and congratulate the organizers of beautiful summer season. 4

A word from Management to install a generator at the As part of Indigenous Services that were under the federal community centre. This will allow ’s transformation process, government’s responsibility prior the community centre to major changes are about to occur, to the 1980s. In other words, accommodate community particularly with respect to Indian members of the Odanak members in the event of a power registration. Indeed, the community who attended the outage. With the climate changes department wants to transfer this Saint-Joseph Academy (current we have experienced over recent responsibility to the Band Councils. location of the Musée des years, ice storms like we had in It would be up to our local Abénakis) as well as the Anglican November and April may occur registration officers to determine School of Odanak will be eligible again and plunge the community who may or may not be registered for financial compensation if they DANIEL G. NOLETT into the dark for a relatively long in the Indian Register. The were abused during the years they Executive Director period. At the end of November Minister, the Honourable Carolyn attended these schools. For more Abenaki Council of Odanak 2018, we lost power for twenty Bennett, is currently conducting information, you can consult the hours over a total period of 48 consultations across Canada. This web links attached below. We will Kwaï mziwi! hours. Several of our members are consultation deals not only with keep you informed of in a vulnerable state, such as elders Indian registration, but also developments once the settlement Over the last few weeks, we living alone, families with young citizenship and belonging. The agreement is reached, which have completed a development children, people living with chronic minister is pushing hard for should be by mid-May. exercise of our new five-year illnesses, and so on. These communities that do not have a strategic plan. The strategic plan members may require special care membership code to adopt one. https://www.cngov.ca/news- was adopted by the Council on for their medical conditions and The ministry estimates that the issues/current-issues/update-on- May 21st and will be in effect until these people, like many others, will population of Status Indians could indian -day-school-settlement- March 31, 2024. It is available for be able to stay warm and safe at increase from 750,000 to 1.3 agreement/ consultation on our website under the centre. The community centre million in Canada. This increase in Council/Documentation. This plan kitchen will also be functional, new Registered Indians is due to https://www.rcaanc- sets out our major directions for which will allow us to help the additional amendments to the cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1552427234180/ administration, health, public community members who wish to Indian Act regarding the right to 1552427274599 safety and the Environment and prepare hot meals, if necessary. registration in relation to Bill S3 Lands sector for the next five (Descheneaux case). To be http://indiandayschools.com/en/ years. Following the departure of Ms. continued… Lucie Michaud in January, Mr. Indigenous Services Canada Jonathan Charbonneau is now the A class action is in the process Wli sigwan! provided us with a $ 59,000 grant Director of Human Resources since of settlement for Enjoy your spring! May 27, 2019. people who attended day schools

Economic Development Accreditation Canada Abenaki of Odanak Council’s website has been revised. I invite Word from the Director: Accreditation renewal file you to consult the list of established companies using the following website: https://caodanak.com/en/commerc For this new fiscal year, great By adhering to this ial-site/ challenges lie ahead, including accreditation renewal process, the renewal of our organization’s we are reiterating our desire to In the coming weeks, a new accreditation. provide quality, safe and project called “Abenakis in effective health care and STÉPHANE LECOURS-AUBIN Business!” will be launched to By definition, accreditation in services that meet the needs and Economic Development Officer promote the products / services of health care is a process of expectations of community Abenaki companies and artists. assessing quality and safety members. In addition, You will be able to see the based on recognized standards maintaining our status as an publications on the Council's of excellence to identify what is accredited organization increases Kwaï! Facebook page and share them to done well and what could be not only our credibility with our showcase our companies! improved with respect to health, partners, our communications, There is economic action in the governance and services offered but also our visibility outside the community. I would like to take Finally, note that a 2019-2024 to customers. community. this opportunity to thank the local strategic planning exercise was promoters, entrepreneurs and conducted last March and This exercise takes place every We recently hired an external artists who have shown a warm economic development is one of welcome since the beginning of four (4) years for accredited person to assist us in fulfilling the themes. Great importance is organizations such as ours. my duties. These interesting given to youth projects (e.g. Niona) this mandate. One of his Considering that the planned visit meetings led to exchanges that as well as to the tourist aspect in responsibilities is to manage the included the search for resource order to promote and spread the for accreditation renewal is set entire process internally in persons, funding and grants. Abenaki culture. It is also with for the month of October 2020, consultation with management Revised business plans and the pride that I had the opportunity to we must begin some preparatory and the various work teams delivery of an Aboriginal business join the “business” seat on the steps immediately. within the Odanak Health starter guide were also offered. Board of Directors of the Musée Centre. An account of the des Abénakis, the first Aboriginal As you can observe, this evolution of this file will be Odanak can be proud of having museum institution in Quebec. process is important not only to communicated to you when a significant number of businesses the staff of our institution, but deemed appropriate. dedicated to giving back to their Looking forward to discussing also to the senior management community. In order to put your projects together soon! and elected representatives of forward the entrepreneurial the Abenakis of Odanak Council. Michel Paul culture that is indeed present, the Wli Kizokw! Coordinator “BUSINESS” section of the Accreditation Canada 5

Health Center On March 30, I attended the for your community. Accreditation services focused on prevention Annual General Assembly of the allows us to adopt and share and the promotion of healthy Abenakis of Odanak Council. knowledge and best practices with habits and to contribute to the Great challenges await us for this others, recruit and retain staff, improvement of the collective well- new fiscal year. improve services and strengthen being. More than ever, the Odanak connections in our community. And finally, the philosophy of Health Centre is committed to We believe it is important to care advocated by all stakeholders improving the quality, accessibility present the mission, vision and at the Odanak Health Centre is and sustainability of health care philosophy of care. biopsychosocial in nature, i.e. an for the Abenaki population of To begin, the mission of the approach taking into account the Odanak. Odanak Health Centre is to needs of the individual as a whole JEAN VOLLANT By participating in the contribute to improving the health (physical, emotional, mental, Director accreditation process, we are able and well-being of members of the spiritual and social) in respect of Odanak Health Center to demonstrate that we offer safe, Odanak community through his Abenaki cultural values and effective and high quality patient- health programs that focus on beliefs. Word from the Director centered care. In addition, this prevention and health promotion, Respect for the user and the commitment will help build trust and by favouring a respectful recognition of his rights and and promote learning in the holistic approach to the beliefs and freedoms inspire all our actions. In Upon reading these lines, the Odanak community while cultural values emanating from the any intervention, we are spring season is well underway optimizing resource utilization. Abenaki Nation. committed to treating you with and we are all looking forward to Our participation in the Thus, the vision is to increase the courtesy, fairness and enjoying some warmth despite the Accreditation Canada program empowerment of community understanding, respecting your cold temperatures over recent shows that our organization strives members in the management of dignity, your independence, your weeks. to provide the best possible care their health by providing health needs and your safety.

Technical Services of the Grand Conseil BRIEFLY Odanak Intergenerational Week Conseil. For example: depending various Boards of Directors, The first edition of the Odanak on the location chosen by the succeeds in finding the program Intergenerational Week will be Band Council, are archaeological that meets the projects’ needs. held from June 16 th to June 22 nd , digs required, is the location in a Regularly, the search for funding 2019. Activities for all tastes and flood zone, are can also be accomplished by the ages will be offered to you and environmental/geotechnical person in charge of the project as your family members. Stay tuned studies necessary? These answers well as by certain Band Council for the program that will be usually come from the Ndakinna members. office. Does the project respond If all goes well and the project available in the coming weeks. to a specific need or request from is well-constructed, we set into a community member or tendering mode according to the This project is made possible by MARIO DIAMOND members? Social services can criteria established by the various the valuable collaboration Technical Services Director help us target building and Band Council purchasing between: accessibility criteria to support processes and also based on the families and people who need a laws that govern these processes Odanak Health Centre First Nations Child and Family Kwaï N’Nid8bak, particular environment. The IT in order to avoid any suspicion of department (IT services), for its collusion or other irregularities. Services part, can guide our choice of As you can see, the Grand Abenaki Museum Usually in this short column, I Ndakinna Office list all upcoming projects in the location in order to determine the Conseil is comprised of over 60 accessibility of the Internet people, most of who are involved Avenir d’Enfant community. However, to make a The Abenaki of Odanak change, I would like to briefly networks and, similarly, Hydro- in the development and smooth explain the work done by the Québec and other services. running of projects. The GCNWA Band Council Technical Services of the Grand Once all the prerequisites and is the largest Tribal Council in studies are met and the project's Quebec and ranks among the top Congratulations Conseil de la Nation Waban-Aki th (GCNWA). Our mandate is to urbanism needs conform to in Canada. Its budget exceeds that On March 26 , during the provide technical services to Band requirements, we can move on to of many communities and comes Canadian Screen Awards, the « Councils for the development of evaluation, plans and largely from contracts we bid on. Quiet Killing » won the Donald their various projects. These specifications phases. Following a In addition to serving the Abenaki Brittain Award for Best services mainly cover housing and more precise evaluation class A, communities of Odanak and Social/Political Documentary engineering. Initially, only one the sustainability of the project is Wôlinak, the GCNWA works in Program. person could fill the position and based on funding research. The several communities in Quebec delegate to engineering firms, mighty dollar speaks loudly. Do and has technical service It is with pride that the Abenakis town planning firms or other we have the means to offer or agreements with several of them. of Odanak Band Council wants to firms, given the scope of the support the Band Council’s In short, we are very proud of congratulate Kim O’bomsawin, the work. Today, the department is funded portion? The search for the Grand Conseil, its director, and her team for this great comprised of around fifteen funding is mainly based on achievements and its growth. We achievement. people, who ensure that the experience and the ability to wish, for the 2019-2020 fiscal GCNWA provides a diversity of explain and sell the project to the year, to work with all the Next meeting of Quebec Native different funding providers. This stakeholders around us to ensure Women (QNW) knowledge, skills and experience. th In carrying out its mission, the stage is almost always assigned to the prosperity of the organization, September 29 , 2019, 1pm Technical Services also rely on the the Grand Council’s Executive but above all, the development of At the Odanak Aln8baïwi Centre participation of the other Director who, through his many communities. A light snack will be served departments of the Grand contacts and his involvement in 6

Odanak Environment and Land Office WIZ8WII SIPS project (Canada Warbler) In 2018, the Odanak principle is simple: using a stereo han 90 meals a week for people Environment and Land Office microphone, we record the birds who request the service. During completed a new project on the that sing every morning (during the the first two years of operation, Canada Warbler. This small yellow reproduction period) between most meals were served in forest bird is designated under the 5:00 and 9:00 am. Later, at the styrofoam containers. Styrofoam Canada Species at Risk Act. The office, we could quietly analyze is marked with No. 6 plastic and is Canada Warbler migrates annually the soundtracks in search of not accepted at the local recycling from its breeding range in north- warblers. Habitat inventories centre. Thus, nearly 14,000 eastern North America to its adapted to this species were finally containers from the Meals on wintering range in South America. conducted in summer, which Quebec and even those of other Wheels service were sent to This bird faces many threats, be it allowed us to determine which studies conducted elsewhere in landfill annually. Given this huge coffee plantations in habitat elements are most Canada, demonstrating that the observation, service users proudly Colombia or logging in its nesting favourable to the presence of this select habitat type for the Canada agreed to participate in an habitat. Over the last 50 years, it is species. Warbler during the breeding initiative to reduce the amount of estimated that this species has According to our results, the season is relatively similar on a containers placed in the black bin. declined annually by 2.1%, which Canada Warbler appears to be larger scale. In January 2019, Meals on Wheels is significant and demonstrates the associated with mixed forests with Ultimately, these results will began a proactive green shift by importance of working for its dense undergrowth. In the study support the various recovery adopting recyclable containers. recovery. Although its decline is area, certain plant species also committees to clearly define Since the beginning of the well documented and the causes seem to favour the presence of this critical habitat for the Canada initiative, users have diverted are becoming better known, the bird, namely young balsam fir, Warbler, and ultimately to develop approximately 4,600 containers federal authorities maintain that young red maples or blueberry broad-based recovery strategies. from landfill. These containers are habitat parameters essential for plants. The main reason is that this sent to the sorting the species’ reproduction are not bird nests near the ground and Protecting the planet: centre where they can be recycled well defined everywhere. This needs the cover provided by these one meal at a time and sold to make new objects or to information is fundamental to plant species to provide them with be recovered for energy developing large-scale recovery good protection against predators. production. The Odanak programs. Our project is therefore These results have been Environment and Land Office part of this process and aims to incorporated into other studies would like to congratulate and find breeding pairs to define which which have been conducted thank the employees and habitat elements are most simultaneously by different volunteers of the Meals on Wheels commonly used in the Centre-du- organizations in other regions of program for their noble Québec region. Quebec, namely in Outaouais and collaboration, as well as the users In order to detect its presence, Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean. Our who actively participate in the we have used an automated results show the same general Meals on Wheels is a community initiative! acoustic recording system. The trends as those of other regions of organization that prepares more

Ndakinna Office Summary of upcoming projects It is with great enthusiasm that the - Archaeological project using a communities by the Environment and Ndakinna Office team begins the georadar at the end of the Vieux- Land Offices as well as by Mr. Michel [financial!] new year. We are Poste in Nutashkuan in Durand to have a more accurate REMINDER: continuing our growth and the partnership with Archéo-Mamu; portrait of the medicinal plants and projects are all just as exciting and invasive alien species present. Pursuant to section 11 and Schedule abundant! Our expertise in First - Research project on a frame of Similarly, a garden of medicinal 1 of the Parks Regulation (chapter Nations archaeology, conducting reference on the use of animal plants will be redeveloped on the P-9, r 25), Abenaki members of the research projects on W8banakiak resources at the W8banakiak grounds of the Odanak Health traditional knowledge, and carrying (NovaScience program, part 2 - Centre. Finally, as part of this project, Odanak and Wôlinak communities out studies on the occupation and First research project by the workshops on medicinal plants will are exempt from paying access fees traditional use of the Ndakinna is Ministry of Economic be offered to members of both as well as rights for fishing in Mont- recognized, valued and respected. Development and Innovation); communities to help learn more Mégantic, Mont-Orford and about this topic. Yamaska National Parks. Thus, in the 2019-2020 fiscal year, - Research project on black ash If you want to learn more about the we will embark, in addition to our with Université Laval; project or if you have any knowledge Also, under the Memorandum of daily tasks, on several new projects: of medicinal plants, do not hesitate to Understanding signed under Parks - Archaeological potential study - Study project on the use and contact me. Canada's Aboriginal Peoples Open project on the Niger River, its mouths occupation of the territory by the Door Program, Abenaki members and tributaries with the Coaticook W8banakiak and for the an Jean-François Provencher of the Odanak and Wôlinak RCM; archaeological potential study as Project Officer communities are exempt from part of the International Lake [email protected] - Archaeological potential study Champlain-Richelieu River Study 819-294-1686 ext. 1231 paying entrance fees to the Mauricie project on the Eaton River, its Board; National Park. mouths and tributaries in Cookshire-Eaton, a city in - Archaeological potential study If you have questions or comments In addition, Abenaki members of Quebec located in the Haut- project on the public lands of the about our projects, please contact us! the Odanak and Wôlinak Saint-François Regional County planning unit UA 51-51 (Estrie) communities are exempt from Municipality, Estrie; with the Ministry of Forests, Suzie O’Bomsawin paying entrance fees to the Mount Wildlife and Parks. Director of the Ndakinna Office Ham Regional Park. - Erosion monitoring project for Grand Conseil de la Nation Waban- the sites located on the shores of Medicinal plants project Aki With the warm season on our the Petit and Grand Lacs Touladi, A very interesting project on [email protected] doorstep, we invite you to take full within the Lac Témiscouata medicinal plants, invasive alien 819.294.1686 advantage of this opportunity to National Park; species and climate change will also Grand Conseil begin this spring. Inventories will be de la Nation Waban-Aki reconnect with the Ndakinna. carried out on the territory of the two [email protected] 7

Community Research Coordination Committee Short Column on the For several years now, many The committee intends to demand research projects have been more rigorous research standards conducted about our communities and require: Brief reminder: In the Abenaki The “i” is pronounced “ay”. For without any significant return for the language, it is important to know example, nebi (water) is Nation. These projects have been 1) that the nation can that all the letters in a word must pronounced “NEBAY”. The “ô” carried out by universities, collaboratively define the research be pronounced. For example, the or the “8” is a nasal sound government departments, non-profit project objectives and “s” at the end of SIBOSIS should between the “an” and the “on”. organizations (NPOs) or methodologies; be pronounced. We therefore The “w”, when placed before a independent researchers. However, 2) that the Nation’s youth can say “sibosisse” rather than consonant, is pronounced as an there was no mechanism in place participate in projects as research “sibosi”. Moreover, the following “o”, like the “w” in French as in within the Nation to properly assistants; letters are not part of our “Web”. It is also pronounced as supervise these projects’ progress. 3) that the data be returned to the alphabet: F, Q, R, U, V, X, Y. The a soft “o” at the end of a word. This caused several major issues. On participants and, according to the “G” is always hard as in “glove”. The “o” is pronounced as is, such the one hand, it was difficult to participants’ requests, to the The “J” for its part is pronounced as in the word “photo”, rather effectively monitor research projects Nation’s organizations; “dz”. The “ch” is pronounced than an “a” as in the word in our communities. Secondly, there 4) that the Nation can participate “ts” as in “channa” (tsanna). The “bought”. When the “o” is was in most cases no return of data in the data analysis; “H” is always aspirated. We do followed by the letter “n”, the or research results to communities 5) that those who participate in not have an “F” sound. For “o” is pronounced as a double and participants. Finally, several research projects have a say in the example, woman is pronounced “o” such as in the word “mood”. projects failed to reflect the Nation’s researcher’s interpretation; and “phanem” in Abenaki. We say For example, “tassakwabon”, or orientations and the comments of 6) that researchers disseminate “P” hanem. Moreover, we do not chair, is pronounced the people who had participated in their results internally to the have the “sh” or “ch” sound as “tassakwaboone”. the research. In short, each year, Nation through various means in shirt or charade. members and workers of the (presentations, short articles, exhibits, cartoon story strips, Nation's organizations spend a great 1 etc.). VERB CATEGORIES deal of time and energy There are two verb categories in the Abenaki language: participating in research projects that have had little positive impact This proactive strategy is intended 1. Intransitive verbs: on our communities. to ensure that research serves the In January 2019, representatives interests of the Nation first. We have Whose action, accomplished or experienced, is limited to the of the Health Centres, First Nations the right to be involved in all stages subject. We find action verbs without a direct object, reflexive Child and Family Services (FNCFS), of a research project, from and stative verbs. the Musée des Abénakis, the conception to dissemination. It is through a resumption of research Ndakinna Office, the Environment E.g. Action To go out Saossamek and Land Office and the Abenakis initiatives that we will be able to achieve real collaboration and strong Reflexive To sit Abimek of Odanak Council came together Stative To be sick Akwamalsimek and set up a research coordination partnerships with universities, government departments and non- committee to work on these issues. 2. Transitive verbs Through the formation of this profit organizations. The search committee, the Nation has gained a should not be done on the Whose action is performed on a direct object. Transitive verbs greater capacity for governance in W8banakiak, but with, by and for are divided into two subcategories: terms of research partnerships. the W8banakiak. • Animate transitive verbs Over the coming months, we will E.g. To see (animate) Namih8meket This committee’s role is to ensure define our research priorities and that future research projects are priorities for the coming years and will communicate them to Quebec • Inanimate transitive verbs relevant to the Nation and that they E.g. To see (inanimate) Namit8zik are conducted according to the best universities. Feel free to visit us or write us to help define the topics of ethical practices. To do this, it will In addition, animate and inanimate transitive verbs combine have to: future research. Once the axes have been developed, we will organize a differently depending on whether their direct object is public meeting for this purpose. Undefined (when it is preceded by an indefinite article such as 1) evaluate the proposed projects; a, an), or Defined (when it is preceded by a definite article: the, 2) maintain relationships with Wliwni, or a demonstrative adjective: this, that, those, these or a researchers throughout the possessive adjective: my, your, his, hers, their, our). project; 3) negotiate and sign Members of the Research research agreements; Transitive verbs (animate or inanimate) with an indefinite direct 4) follow up with university Coordination Committee: David Bernard object are conjugated in the same way as intransitive verbs and science committees; disregard whether their direct object is singular or plural. 5) communicate the Nation’s Suzie O’Bomsawin Daniel G. Nolett research priorities to Quebec Example: universities; Patricia Lachapelle Vicky Desfossés-Bégin Intransitive verb - To go out/ Saossamek 6) ensure that the Nation’s We go out N’saossabna intellectual property is Valérie Laforce respected, and Stéfanie O’Bomsawin Transitive verb - To see/ Namih8mek (animate) 7) archive and highlight the data Jean Vollant We see a tree N’namih8bna abazi and research results. Michel Durand Nolett We see many trees N’namih8bna abaziak Samuel Dufour - To see/ Namit8zik (inanimate) We see a house N’namitobna wigw8m NEXT PUBLIC GENERAL MEETING We see many houses N’namitobna wigw8mal Wednesday, September 25th, 2019, at 1:30 pm Note: in the example above, the “we” is exclusive, i.e. it excludes At the Community Center, 56, Waban-Aki Street the person (s) we are talking to. For more information 1 Taken from INITIATION À LA GRAMMAIRE ABÉNAKISE, 450 568-2810 Monique Nolett-Ille, Odanak 2006. 8

News From Your Museum Elijah Tahamont, an Abenaki actor from the Odanak community who had a career in Hollywood in the 1910s? On its own, this headdress is worth the trip! In addition, entry is completely free for Abenaki members. The Musée des Abénakis will also present this summer the outdoor photographic exhibit “Le Fundraising cocktail Rapprochement” by Suzanne Bourdon. This exhibit will highlight More than 100 friends and Aboriginal identity through black- partners of the Musée des and-white photographs, including Abénakis met on March 21 to those by Mandi Thompson and participate in the most recent Martin Gill, both from the Odanak edition of its annual fundraising community. cocktail. Thanks to the guests’ presence and the generous Renewal of the permanent contribution of 25 sponsors, the exhibit Musée des Abénakis is more than The renewal project for the happy to announce that the permanent exhibit continues. The amount raised totals close to $ consultation period is over, but 29,000 ($ 19,000 net profit). perhaps you had the chance to Once again this year, Photo : Theresa Watso meet the members of the firm participants discovered the artistic Maelström créatif with which the and culinary wealth of the First Costs for this activity: $ 10 per Museum is working on this Kwigw8mna project? The team met several Nations and immersed themselves The project is taking shape! In the adult ($ 8 for members of the in the contemporary culture of the Odanak Historical Society), $ 8 for people and committees and also coming weeks, you will witness traveled to several gatherings in Abenakis. And once again, the the construction and complete students aged 13 to 18 and $ 5 for culinary discovery of the evening children aged 5 to 12. Odanak and Wôlinak such as the layout of the traditional dwelling in Talent Show, the Museum's was entrusted to Chef Steve the historic square near the Bissonnette from the restaurant- Finally, on September 14, the fundraising cocktail and the forum Museum. The purpose of this Reformons le cercle. The purpose pub Le D'Orsay in . project is to allow visitors to activity Maalhakws: les Abénakis Guests enjoyed tasting unique et le frêne (Maalhakws: Abenakis of such an exercise was to know discover the way of life, the know- the views of a maximum number smoked salmon, black pudding, elk how as well as the elements of and the ash tree) will immerse you and deer. DJ Inuk, Geronimo Inutiq, in the life of a young ash tree. of Abenakis on their past, present Abenaki material culture. and future identity in order to was again invited to liven up this Moreover, this project will allow us Understand the place occupied by festive evening with his LP vinyl nature and the importance of this create a solid foundation for the to create a brand new educational concept of the exhibit. records. activity that will be offered to tree in w8banakis culture. Learn how to spot an ash tree in the schools as early as next fall. The A Facebook group “WIJOKA; Our reputed silent auction was home should be completed by the forest, how to extract its fibre and also back. Indeed, the thirteen how to work with its material. To travaillons ensemble | let's work end of June - just in time for the together!” was also created. The pieces of Native and non-native Pow Wow. Come to take a peek! conclude the activity, everyone is artists and craftsmen all found invited to produce pretty works purpose of this group is to keep takers; close to $ 4,000 were raised from ash splints. you, members of the community, thanks to the sale of these works! Spring-summer cultural informed of the project’s progress. Thank you to the generous programming Costs for this activity: $ 15 per If you are still not part of the community donors: Alanis Several activities are planned adult ($ 12 for members of the group, ask to join. The latter offers Obomsawin, Annette Nolett, during the spring and summer of Odanak Historical Society), $ 8 for you many surprises - you will even Christine Sioui Wawanoloath, 2019, with various themes to students aged 13 to 18 and $ 5 for be asked to participate actively in Helen Watso and June Palmer; your satisfy young and not so young. children aged 5 to 12. the exhibit by making choices. Stay contributions made all the connected! difference! On May 18, thanks to the For all these activities, activity W8banaki sawaw8ganal; registration is required, contact us: In addition, this summer, you are In the late evening, draws and entre tradition et modernité 450 568-2600 or by email invited to participate in the door prizes were awarded to ten (W8banaki sawaw8ganal; [email protected] creation of a collective artistic lucky people, including a trip to between tradition and modernity), work with multidisciplinary artist Essipit, which includes two nights you can discover Abenaki clothing, Summer exhibits Christine Sioui Wawanoloath. This in a condo and a whale-watching from the arrival of Europeans to Indians beyond Hollywood work will take place on the cruise, an overnight stay at the today. Sylvain Rivard, the clothing (L’Indien au-delà d’Hollywood) Museum's outdoor site over the Montfort Hotel in Nicolet with specialist, will introduce you to the continues until December at the entire summer. access to the Nordic spa, two particularities of Abenaki clothing Musée des Abénakis. This overnight stays in the “prêt-à- over time. Do you know the amazing exhibit brings together a Increasing visits camper Étoile” or Echo chalet in symbols, colours and subtleties profusion of caricatures, March 31 marked the end of our one of the SÉPAQ national parks, that characterize your Nation’s stereotypical characters invented fiscal year and our annual ridership an “O'tentik” package at the traditional clothing? by Hollywood films, which was compiled. The news is Mauricie National Park, courtesy This activity is free. highlight their recurring presence excellent; more than 11,500 of Parks Canada, and a gift in popular culture. Have fun visitors passed through the doors certificate from the restaurant-pub On August 9, during the Perseid observing the multitude of related of the Musée des Abénakis in D'Orsay. period, join us to observe the objects. And discover, from a 2017-2018! An increase of more shooting stars during the outdoor current perspective, how this long than 33% compared to last year. It The Musée des Abénakis would activity contes et légendes sous un history now leads First Nations is also interesting to note that just like to extend a warm thank you to ciel d’Alakwsak (storytelling and people to speak out, to reclaim over 1,500 students from more all of its partners – in particular its legends under an Alakwsak sky. In their own cultural image and to than 40 schools came to discover major sponsors RBC, BLG, company of Nicole O'Bomsawin, denounce the misuse of their Abenaki culture this year. Let's Desjardins caisse Nicolet, Group you will spend a pleasant evening image to stop the generalization promote this beautiful culture, one 132, Dionne Schulze, Construction near the fire. You will discover the and stereotypes. visitor at a time! G. Therrien and the SAQ – and all immaterial culture of the its guests, without whom this Abenakis, rich in history, Did you know that the exhibit Whshing another busy year in event could not have been as anecdotes and legends. contains more than 130 objects, 2018-2019! successful! including the actual headdress of