Volume 17 Issue 5 Published monthly by the Union of Ontario Indians - Anishinabek Nation Single Copy: $2.00 June 2005 IN THE NEWS Women protest C-31 MONTREAL – To mark the 20th anniversary of the Indian Act amendment, commonly known as “Bill C-31” the Native Women’s Association of Canada (NWAC) and the Quebec Native Women Inc. (QNW) are plan- ning a protest on Parliament Hill on June 28, 2005. NWAC President, Beverley Jacobs says “I am hearing about women being denied access to their communities as a result of who they married before 1985. I am also hearing about First Nations children being denied Indian status due to unstated paternity.” Funding saves FNTI TYENDINAGA – Thanks to a last-minute $500,000 funding announcement by Indian and Northern Affairs minister Andy Scott, First Nation Technical Services Institute will continue operations. FNTI, 20 years old in August, has had more than 2,000 post-secondary graduates in aviation, indigenous health, media, human services, and other programs in partnership with institutions like Ryerson Assembly of First Nations National Chief Phil Fontaine and Prime Minister Paul Martin greet each other at a cabinet meeting retreat in Ottawa May University, and Humber, St. 31. The AFN leader called it a ‘historic step forward for First Nations in their relationship with the federal government.’ – (CP PHOTO/Tom Hanson) Lawrence and Canadore col- leges. CNN snubs Natives First Nations at cabinet table VERMILLION, SD – CNN has awarded $1 million for OTTAWA – Aboriginal leaders the straitjacket from federal poli- recognition and reconciliation of ing, but the real focus of decisions scholarships to minority jour- in Canada have made history by cies and programs and sets the Constitutional, treaty and inherent and announcements will come at nalism organizations with the participating in a federal cabinet stage for a new relationship rights; capacity-building opportu- this fall’s first ministers meeting on goal of diversifying newsrooms, meeting specifically devoted to between First Nations and Canada nities for First Nations governance, aboriginal matters. but excluded a donation to aboriginal issues. and a new agenda for First Nations and processes and legislation that Assembly of First Nations American Indian journalists, the The special May 31 cabinet and Canada,” said the National will enable the development of National Chief Phil Fontaine said most under-represented minori- retreat produced new agreements Chief, who signed the First First Nation governments. the cabinet agreed in principle with ty. – Related story on page 11 pledging that Ottawa would Nations-Federal Crown Political Prime Minister Paul Martin the idea of an aboriginal housing change how it deals with Native Accord on the Recognition and encouraged the provinces to take a authority that would encourage Achievers in Vancouver issues but skeptics were wary that Implementation of First Nations major role in aboriginal programs, both private and social housing on The National Aboriginal it's all just more talk. Governments during the private an area that has been considered a reserves. Achievement Awards, is coming AFN National Chief Phil meeting. clear federal responsibility. The ministers began the meet- to Vancouver on Friday, January Fontaine called it a “historic step The accord commits First Mr. Martin, his Indian Affairs ing by signing partnership accords 27, 2006 at the Queen Elizabeth forward for First Nations in their Nations and the Government of Minister Andy Scott and aboriginal with the five aboriginal groups: the Theatre where 14 exceptional relationship with the federal gov- Canada to the establishment of a leaders made the appeal after the Assembly of First Nations, Métis Aboriginal men and women, ernment” and an opportunity to Joint Steering Committee to under- special cabinet committee meeting. National Council, Inuit Tapiriit including one youth recipient give life to the inherent Aboriginal take and oversee cooperative Mr. Martin said issues such as Kanatami, Native Women’s and one lifetime achiever, will and treaty rights of First Nations. action on policy change; the devel- housing, health and education were Association and the Congress of be honoured as part of a enter- “This political accord removes opment of frameworks for the discussed at the closed-door meet- Aboriginal Peoples. tainment extravaganza featuring top Aboriginal performers. Ontario Chiefs elect Angus Toulouse Anishinabek Writers EAGLE LAKE FN – Angus Toulouse, the chief of of Ontario Indians and has served as Chairman of the Sagamok First Nation has been elected the new region- North Shore Tribal Council. al chief for Ontario at the Annual Chiefs of Ontario He is a strong advocate for a rights-based agenda, conference held in Eagle Lake FN June 14. including a focus on advocating for treaty and aborigi- He replaces Assembly of First Nations executive nal rights. He has held a number of portfolios over the Charles Fox, who resigned last month. years including education and natural resources with a “I am humbled by this honour bestowed upon me focus on forestry. by the Chiefs and I will be unrelenting in my approach Toulouse was elected for a four-year term over Put your community to carrying out this mandate,” he said. seven other candidates including, Wally McKay on the map with stories and Angus Toulouse has been Chief of the Sagamok (Sachigo Lake), Lorraine Rekmans (Serpent River), photos. Earn money too. Contact: Maurice Switzer, Editor Anishnawbek First Nation for the past 11 years. He has Art Petahtegoose (Whitefish Lake), Allan Luby Telephone: (705) 497-9127 also served six years as a band councillor in his com- (Dalles), Chris McCormick (Batchewana), Larry Toll Free: 1-877-702-5200 munity. In addition to his duties as Chief, Toulouse is Jourdain (Lac La Croix), Eli Mandamin (Shoal Lake [email protected] also the Lake Huron Region Grand Chief for the Union #39). Angus Toulouse Page 2 Anishinabek News June 2005 DOHM-NUK / LET’S PLAY! Anishinabek Crossword #3 Artist profile: Travis Shilling The youngest son of the late, important Canadian artist Arthur Shilling, Travis is forging his own path in the art world. Travis Shilling was born in 1978 in Mnjikaning First Nation. He is self-taught and has attended the Travis Shilling Toronto School of Self-portrait Art, and the Dundas Valley School of Art. “A reflection occurs midway He is best known as a figura- through the portrait, where you tive and landscape painter who forget who you are painting and a uses a unique colour sense, strong fever begins while realizing we compositions, spontaneous ener- are all longing and searching for gy, with sensitive and mature something beautiful.” strokes. www.beckettfineart.com Favourite Anishinabek Websites www.oyate.org Native Literature and Education Resource www.urbanshaman.org/ Contemporary Native art www.janecommanda.com/ local favourite www.dorothygrant.com Salish High Fashion www.turtleisland.org News, Current Events, Other www.thenewpath.ca Oyate’s logo is symbolic of the education Native Curriculum project awareness work they do. delivered by M'Chigeeng Across 50. The “strawberry” organ 19. Feeling of regard for First Nation 1. Courage (grandfather 51. Symbol of honesty (grandfather teaching) www.kstrom.net/isk/ teaching) 21. State of being humble maps/historical.html 5. Sauce made from basil and Down (grandfather teaching) Useful historical, cultural, garlic and other ingredients 1. Sacred animal 24. Game played on a horse political maps 10. Laughter sound 2. Warrior Group (abbr) 25. One time www.etribe.ca/ 11. Nobility 3. What? (Canadian) 27. Knockout for short A little bit of everything 12. Reputation 4. Method of detecting 30. Executive Assistant www.thenewworldmovie.com distant objects 33. Take on 14. Food regimen New Hollywood movie based 15. Radio wave 5. Cooking utensil 35. Wise one Colin Farrell plays John Smith and new- on Pocahontas (right) comer Q’orianka Kilcher is Pocahontas. 16. Salvation Army, for short 6. Inside (prefix) 37. Snake 17. Come together 7. Abstaining 40. At this place 18. What we breathe 8. French for you 42. “V___ Las Vegas” 20. Integrity (grandfather 9. Fruit growing areas (Elvis hit) teaching) 11. The sun provides it 45. Company, for short 22. Listener 13. French friend 46. Expression of surprise 23. Not down 16. Stone is symbol 48. Right, for short 25. Either/__? 26. Approves 28. Burial site 29. Unlock 31. Indicator light (abbr.) 32. Customer Service, for short 34. Sacred bird 36. Affinity (grandfather teaching) 38. Modern medicine man? 39. French for him 41. Concealed 43. Indian tent home (U.S. Tribe sp.) 44. Computer 47. Extremely 49. Man __ man Last month’s answers Last month’s The first correct crossword we receive will win a MINIATURE DIGITAL CAMERA courtesy of Anishinabek Nation 7th Generation Charities. Last month’s winner is Gabe Belleau from Whitefish Lake First Nation. June 2005 Anishinabek News Page 3 HONOUR SONGS Anishinabek North shore youth meet By Perry McLeod-Shabogesic WHITEFISH LAKE FN – Mamaweswen – the North Shore Tribal Council and the N’Swakamok Native Friendship Centre in Sudbury sponsored a Front left, Jamie Lynn Mandamin (daughter) – behind her is Heather special youth gathering at Mandamin (Mom), Randy Mandamin (Dad) holding baby Gracie Alexis, Whitefish Lake First Nation in Mary Elliot (Nokomis) and Mathew Mandamin (son). Alan Ozawanimke, Union of Ontario Indians CEO, presents $1000 May entitled “Anishinabek donation to 14-year-old Emily Williams, a member of the Youth Eshkiniigjig (Youth) the teachings of the rites of passage shared her experiences with the Suicide Prevention Walkers who left Duncan, B.C. March 28 to raise Teaching/Gathering.” of Anishinabe youth. youth at the gathering and encour- awareness of youth suicide. Held at the Whitefish Lake Among the invited speakers aged them not to forget their ways Community centre, the event drew were Elder Ann Wilson from the of becoming good Anishinabe Suicide taking toll 135 participants to hear and share Rainy River First Nation, who women and men. NIPISSING FN – When Elder Lewis Joseph spoke about losing young people to suicide his eyes swelled with tears. Students rewarded POW-WOW DATES His composure was regained when he talked about the strength Zhiibaahaasing First Nation and dedication of the youth who are walking across five provinces to Anjeni Kohoko-Grant was one Pow-Wow – Honour our Men. raise awareness about suicide in First Nation communities. of 21 students and four supervisors Change in date from July 17-18 “Our youth are our future and we must protect them, respect them from the Algonquins of to September 10-11, Silverwater, and make them stronger through events like this,” he said. Pikwakanagan After-School contact Chris 705-283-3963. For the third year in a row the Aboriginal Youth Suicide Program who enjoyed an after- Prevention Walkers stopped by the Union of Ontario Indian office noon horseback riding at Frontier June 7 on their way to Ottawa. Trails Camp in Eganville. The group which included seven youth, an Elder and two coordi- The outing was a reward for nators dropped into the UOI offices where they received a $1000 the Grades 2-8 students, who also donation to help costs incurred during the annual walk. enjoyed a games room, trampo- line, park, and lunch. The riding trails took the youth Only two on a 25-minute ride through fields and into shaded forests. Each member was given a helmet to lakes to go wear and two camp assistants THUNDER BAY – With ensured the riders were safe and lakes Superior, Michigan and on track. One supervisor attended now Huron crossed off their list, each riding group. the Mother Earth Water Walkers The day was clear, warm and can put up their weary feet until bright and the youth had a great next summer. day running around, riding horses, John Fox (Little Bear), Loon They have only two more checking things out and having Anjeni Kohoko-Grant on horse- Clan, Wikwemikong, living in lakes to walk around in their fun. back. Thunder Bay. efforts to create more awareness about pollution and environmen- Water walkers Josephine tal issues concerning Water – Mandamin, Melvina Flamand and Violet Caibaisai. lifeblood of Mother Earth. The walkers recently com- pleted their walk around Lake Huron, which started in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario and ended in Soo, Michigan almost a month later. Next year’s journey will be around Lake Ontario. “I got the idea in the year 2000 when an elder prophesized that 30 years from now water will cost $325 an ounce, if we don’t do anything to mend our ways. Well that word ‘if’ gave me hope that there’s some- thing that can be done,” said walker Josephine Mandamin. Mandamin along with Melvina Flamand, Violet Caibaisai and Judith Schmid are the four women who walked the distance of Lake Huron. Last year they walked Lake Michigan and before that Lake Superior. The 1st Mother Earth Water Walk took place April 2003. Several women from different clans came together to walk around the Great Lakes to raise awareness. Wally raises $3500 By Marcia Trudeau WIKWEMIKONG – Wally Wally Mishibinijima en route Mishibinijima raised at least to Sault Ste. Marie. another $3500 to assist First Nation students that are in foster care and want to pursue post-sec- ondary education. Walking an average daily 50 kilometres, Mishibinijima's fourth annual “Fostering Futures” began at his Rabbit Island home and wrapped up in Sault Ste. Marie. Along the way, his journey was cele- brated at community feasts in Whitefish River and Mississauga First Nations. Donations are still being accepted and may be sent to ‘Fostering Futures Fund’ c/o Walter Mishibinijima, 1266 Rabbit Island Road, Wikwemikong, Ontario P0P 2J0. Next year will be last that Mishibinijima walks to Sault Ste. Marie solo. After the fifth walk in 2006, it will be organized as a relay with various walkers that are interested in taking turns and challenging themselves. Page 4 Anishinabek News June 2005 Maanda ndinendam

The Anishinabek News is a monthly publication of the Union of Ontario Indians (UOI). Views expressed are not necessarily the family relationships in reducing levels of violence and opinion or political position of the UOI. Self-government substance abuse. Stan Wesley, originally from Moose No portion of this paper, including advertisements, artwork, pho- Factory, conducted sessions on “peer helping” – peo- tos and editorial content may be reproduced without written permis- ple helping people. And Anishinabek Nation Grand sion of the Anishinabek News Editor or UOI Executive. Council Chief John Beaucage outlined the challenges Readers are invited to submit letters, articles, and photos for pub- means exactly presented by a fast-growing young urban aboriginal lication. Please include your name, address and telephone number population without sufficient access to educational on all material submitted. All submissions will be reviewed for publi- and employment opportunities. cation based on priority of interest and edited for clarity of thought, what it says taste, brevity and legal implications. Remuneration will be paid for Delegates understood that building safer commu- submissions only if a written agreement with the Editor is made prior Everybody seems to be in favour of self-govern- nities means more than buying better locks for doors to publication. ment . . . so long as somebody else does the work. or installing video cameras on city streets after dark. Editor: Maurice Switzer One conference handout – “Safer Communities for Assistant Editor: Jamie Monastyrski Contributors: Kelly Brownbill, Denise Desormeaux, Rick Fehr, Native peoples want self-government for the same All: Combatting Hate Activity” – was produced by the Rick Garrick, Stewart King, Perry McLeod- reasons everyone in the world does. But not everyone Federation of Canadian Municipalities, and stressed Shabogesic, Rosalind Raby, Curtis Wheatley in that world seems to understand that the first step that racism can have negative impacts on everything towards self-government is accepting a share of the from a community’s social cohesion to its economic Editorial Board: Fred Bellefeuille, Les Couchie, Cathie Favreau, responsibility to make our societies successful. This is development. Alan Ozawanimke what is meant by the term “civic duty” – every citizen Co-ordinator: Priscilla Goulais has a role in keeping their All in all, it was a wonderful event – it’s not often Production: Deb Sullivan community safe, healthy, you find yourself in a room with people looking for and prosperous. ways they can contribute to making the world a better Telephone: (705) 497-9127 Toll Free: 1-877-702-5200 place in which to live. The gifts and giveaways were Fax: (705) 497-9135 e-mail: [email protected] Instead of expecting superb. I got a ballcap with an OPP crest that could be teachers to be surrogate extremely helpful when I exercise my treaty fishing Anishinabek News parents for our children – rights, and a huge fridge magnet advising everyone in P.O. Box 711, Nipissing First Nation, North Bay, ON P1B 8J8 handling out values and my kitchen not to feed the bears. discipline as well as home- work – we have a respon- When I came into the office Monday morning I sibility – a duty – to had calls from some irate off-reserve Natives in ensure that our children go Sudbury complaining that a trendy new clothing store to school with values in was not honouring their treaty right to sales tax Publishing Criteria their hearts as well as food exemption. Out of habit, I reached for the phone to Maurice Switzer lodge a complaint with the store’s head office in GOAL in their bellies. Instead of saying “All politicians are Ottawa. To publish a quality newspaper and related publications jerks so what’s the point of voting?”, each of us has a designed to foster pride and share knowledge about Then I thought about the anti-crime conference, Anishinabek current affairs, culture, goals, and accomplish- civic duty to do whatever we can to ensure that our and pecked out a couple of e-mails to members of ments. communities and country are getting honest and effec- tive government. I would have liked to see all 308 fed- Sudbury’s new Aboriginal Urban Dialogue OBJECTIVES eral riding constituencies summon their respective Committee, providing them the store’s head office phone number and president’s name. “This issue To provide information that reflects the Creator’s four original MPs home to special town-house meetings and rake gifts to the Anishinabek: them over the coals for the daily Punch-and-Judy would be an ideal one for your group to take on”, I show that Parliament has become. suggested, adding that the Union of Ontario Indians Respect: To welcome diversity and encourage a free exchange would be glad to lend support to their dialogue with of opinions that may differ without being disagreeable. Fair and As 150 participants in a recent conference dis- city merchants. humourous comments are welcomed, but not ridicule or person- cussed in North Bay, the day is past when we can leave al attacks. crime prevention in the hands of the police. For one Self-government means exactly what it says. thing, there aren’t enough of them to go around, and Honesty: Debwewin – speaking the truth – is the cornerstone of for another, in the words of keynote speaker Dr. Greg our newspaper’s content. Brown, “being able to address and solve community (Maurice Switzer is a citizen of the Mississaugas of problems is about all community members working Alderville First Nation. He serves as director of com- Sharing: Providing opportunities for people from the four cor- together and taking responsibility for their communi- munications for the Union of Ontario Indians and edi- ners of the Anishinabek Nation to tell stories and record ty.” tor of the Anishinabek News.) achievements, and to keep our citizens informed about activities of the Union of Ontario Indians. Billed as the Northeastern Ontario Community Strength: To give a voice to the vision of the Anishinabek Mobilization for Crime Prevention Conference – Nation that celebrates our history, culture and language, pro- badges for delegates had to be very big! – the event motes our land, treaty, and aboriginal rights, and supports the was co-ordinated by the Chisholm Community development of healthy and prosperous communities. Policing Committee and the Ontario Provincial Police. Participants included a broad range of people interest- NOTE: The Editor reserves the right to edit all submissions for brevity, ed in safe communities, from farmers who hang clarity, and suitability for publication. All formal comments and complaints “Neighbourhood Watch” signs in their windows to must be addressed to Editorial Board c/o Anishinabek News. police officers on the bomb squad. Workshops, demonstrations, and displays touched on everything from how to recognize counterfeit currency to the value of skateboard parks in the fight against juvenile Advertising & News Deadlines delinquency. The current circulation of the Anishinabek News is 10,000 copies, with 9,000 mailed and 1,000 distributed at various events. Organizers ensured that their agenda had some DEADLINE FOR aboriginal content. Longtime police officer Sgt. JULY/AUGUST ISSUE George Couchie, Red-tailed Hawk Clan, Nipissing First Nation, talked about the importance of healthy Advertising Bookings: June 20 Final Art: June 24 News Did you know that members of the 42 Anishinabek News submissions: June 20 Scheduled printing: July 7 Nation communities are eligible for a FREE SUBSCRIPTION? Regular Subscription prices for one year (10 issues): For more information or inquiries to the Anishinabek News related to advertising and circulation issues please call our new Anishinabek Nation citizens $0 (Free) Canada $25 (Can. Funds) USA $25 (U.S. Funds) Int. $50 (Can. Funds) toll-free number: 1-800-463-6408 For more information or inquiries to the Anishinabek News related to advertising and circulation issues please call our toll-free number: 1-800-463-6408 June 2005 Anishinabek News Page 5 Maanda ndinendam/Opinions Human rights body supports Native claim By Monica Bodirsky you are denied certain benefits, or Perplexed by ‘pulling the plug’ What can be done when you if you are receiving a higher work Editor: themselves. I have seen many of our people reluctant- are experiencing racism? What if load because you are Indigenous. The sad story of Terri Schiavo has long since faded ly make a decision to “pull the plug” when there did you are denied housing, a promo- This can be difficult to prove in the from the memory of the public at large. More contro- not seem to be any hope for recovery from injury, trau- tion, or are subjected to harass- absence of direct comments or versial events dominate the media such as the ongoing ma or life-threatening condition and death seemed ment? What are your rights, and actions. What if you simply sus- Gomery inquiry which gives us a daily dose of shock- eminent. how do you know if you should pect that promotions aren’t offered ing testimony to pique our interest. But I have never seen a mother, wife, aunt, sister file a complaint? to you because you are a First Arguments for and against the Terri Schiavo issue, or daughter being starved to death. The Ontario Human Rights Nations person? however, continue to chase around in circles in my As an aboriginal woman, it is beyond my compre- Code is a provincial law that gives In the case of Michael head. hension that what happened to Terry Schiavo could First Nations people, and every- McKinnon v. the Ministry of As an aboriginal woman, I had a most difficult happen to today’s society. One wonders what Donald body else, equal rights and oppor- Correctional Services ((1998)), time comprehending how a helpless woman could lit- Herbert, the firefighter from Buffalo, NY, would say tunities in specific areas such as McKinnon, a corrections officer of erally be starved to death in full public view. about the issue after his miraculous comeback from a jobs, housing and services. In Native Canadian ancestry, alleged I have seen many of our people selflessly care for decade spent fluctuating between a vegetative and Ontario, prior to 1962, a number of that he suffered discrimination and their loved ones, whether they be young children or minimally-conscious state. I continue to be perplexed. different laws addressed discrimi- harassment in employment on the Elders, who were helpless and unable to care for Donna Debassige, Anishinaabe Kwe nation. These laws, along with basis of race, ancestry, and place of added protections, were brought origin. together to form the Human Rights The allegations included the Code. The Human Rights use by officers of unacceptable Election Commission was given the man- racial comments; the presence of date to administer and enforce the pictorial caricatures of McKinnon Code through its public inquiries, on the bulletin board in the offi- process as well as its education, mediation cers’ lounge; management’s sin- and investigation services for gling out of McKinnon for harsher those who wish to file a complaint. treatment; the denial of a promo- fair? An independent body separate tion; and, the discriminatory treat- Editor: from the Commission, called the ment of his wife, who was also a The article submitted by the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario, corrections officer. Principal Negotiator for the makes the ultimate decision The Tribunal found the failure Algonquin treaty process, Mr. Bob regard- of senior Potts, published in the April 2005 ing the manage- edition of Anishinabek News, stated nature of ment to that he wanted to ensure that the discrimi- take non-political Algonquin Negotiation nation appropri- Representative (ANR) election and what should be done to make ate and timely measures to deal process was fair and professional. reparation. with the conduct constituted an Unfortunately, it failed to meet these Anyone may make a complaint infringement of McKinnon’s standards. to the Human Rights Commission rights. In reviewing these concerns, it if what they are complaining about The Tribunal also found must first be appreciated that this happened in Ontario and is cov- McKinnon and his wife had been election was set in place to establish ered by the Code. If you believe discriminated against in employ- a clear distinction from political you have been discriminated ment on the basis of their race, Algonquin Nation Tribal Council against or harassed, the ancestry, and place of origin when (ANTC) Chief positions and ANR Commission’s job is to settle, they were denied the entry-level positions. investigate, and forward appropri- management positions they had z In this article, Mr. Potts stated ate complaints to the human rights each applied for. The Ministry of that ANRs require no qualifications, tribunal Human Rights Tribunal of Correctional Services was ordered other than being electors. Given this reluctant to vote for other candidates would reach its destination on time. Ontario for a hearing... While to compensate McKinnon for the statement I have to ask, Is this really because they feared that they might Although not stated in the instruc- many people who belong to, or difference between his salary and a fair and professional approach to lose their hunting rights. tions this potentially translates to, work within the First Nations com- actual payment he received while treaty making? And further, do you z The candidates’ meeting dates “vote before the candidates’ plat- munity are subjected to racist on ‘sick leave’ owing to work really think that Ontario and Canada were set several weeks in advance form material gets to you” and fur- remarks or conduct, it can be stress. The Ministry was also are going to send non-qualified by Mr. Potts without any notice to ther “vote before you have the intimidating to address the situa- ordered to promote McKinnon and negotiators to the table? known potential candidates, or con- opportunity to hear the candidates tion. As a community, we are often his wife to the positions that they z Throughout this election sideration of their schedules to con- during the candidates’ meetings.” told not to make waves, or advised had been denied and to relocate process, political ANTC Chiefs run- firm if these dates were okay. As a z A personal declaration on the to ignore aggressors; however, one of the individuals that who had ning as candidates had the advan- result, one candidate – Melinda voting ballot was located on the out- repeated harassment or other forms been harassing him. tage over non-political candidates in Turcotte – could not attend her own side of the envelope; as such, votes of discriminatory treatment within Silence, or ignoring the situa- that they have access to mailing, candidates’ meeting. were not private or confidential. the office can make our work lives tion, will not typically make racial telephone and electronic mailing z Due to poor planning, in some This undoubtedly may have pre- stressful, sometimes, intolerable. harassment go away. Sometimes lists. Algonquin communities electors vented many from feeling that their According to the OHRC, this harassment can lead to vio- z ANTC Chiefs also had the received their election ballots well vote was confidential and as a result, “Racial Harassment” means that lence. If you feel uncomfortable or advantage over other candidates in before receiving candidates’ plat- possibly many did not participate in someone is bothering you, threat- threatened, or you believe you that in the past they have been forms in the mail. The instructions the election. ening you, or treating you unfairly have been treated unfairly because responsible for distributing hunting on the ballot suggested that Lynn Gehl because of your race, colour or you are a First Nations person, cards and hunting tags. As a result, Algonquin people “mail in your bal- Algonquin,Turtle Clan ancestry. Harassment can also speak to a person in authority many Algonquins may have been lot as soon as possible” to ensure it Peterborough include comments connected to about it (i.e. supervisor, store your birthplace, your religious or owner, union representative, etc.). spiritual beliefs, your ethnicity, cit- You can contact the Ontario Well-funded agencies failing to help izenship, or language. It is against Human Rights Commission for Editor: Since my son was unable to control my stomach to have to deal with the Code, and therefore illegal, for more information about your As a former Crown ward, a sin- his impulsivity in a regular school this situation. Our service agen- anyone to harass you, insult you, rights or to lodge a complaint. If gle parent father and who is disad- setting, he has been participating in cies, some who receive millions of or treat you unfairly for any of harassing behaviour makes you vantaged in caring for his children. an Aboriginal-run day treatment dollars in funding, cannot meet the these reasons. feel that you’re in danger, or if it I am writing this letter in relation program. needs of an Aboriginal family. Although racial harassment leads to violence, contact the to recent news stories about chil- My daughter cannot access I think some answers may be frequently involves jokes, ridicule, police. dren with special needs. specialized services to meet her culturally-appropriate services, insults etc., it can also appear more For more information regard- My son was diagnosed with needs. Generally, short-term inter- general sensitivity training for staff insidiously as an implied threat or ing policies, guidelines, and other (ADHD) Attention Deficiency ventions are not helping her. When members and for schools to better conduct which is racially motivat- documentation regarding racial Hyperactivity Disorder. He is on I approached services from a rec- understand and work with students ed. It is equally wrong for an discrimination, please visit the Concerta (56) mls to assist with his ognized, accredited urban chil- who have ADHD issues. employer or co-worker to treat you OHRC website at impulsivity. dren’s mental health center. I was In terms of high staff turnover, differently than your co-workers. www.ohrc.on.ca, or call in confi- A child psychiatrist from politely directed to get the services how can a service agent deliver An example of this may be if you dence during regular office hours Thunder Bay Regional Health from an Aboriginal agency. successful client focus therapy? are treated more harshly, or if you from Monday to Friday at 1 800 Sciences Center was working with As a parent, I am disgusted, John Fox are excluded from workplace 387 9080 or by TTY at 1 800 308 him to monitor his medication. disappointed and sick to the pit of Thunder Bay events or social opportunities, or if 5561. Page 6 Anishinabek News June 2005 Ngodoode/Family Honouring the missing spirits By Denise Desormeaux tions. It has created networking of strength in the oral tradition,” LONDON – A symposium was women across the world.” explained Huntley, “People wanted held at The University of Western Audrey Huntley (Ojibway, to share; people wanted to be Ontario’s King’s College on the German – CBC News Sunday, acknowledged.” Regarding vio- “Fragile Lives of Aboriginal Toronto) compiled, “Traces of lence against women, Huntley Women.” Many gathered to pay Missing Women,” a 10-minute explained, “The next step beyond homage to the spirits of the missing documentary. Huntley asked peo- education, is prevention. It really and murdered Aboriginal women ple to share their memories of is sovereignty at the end of the day. across Canada. loved ones. “I am amazed at the Decolonization will help end the Joanne Sylliboy (Mikmaq, of resilience; there is an amazing violence.” Nova Scotia) opened the event with a thanksgiving prayer in her language. Beverly Jacobs (Mohawk – President of The Native Women’s Association of Canada), the lead Symposium organizers: Back Row, l-r: Edna Brass, Joanne Sylliboy, consultant for the “Sisters in Darlene Ritchie, and Beverly Jacobs, Front Row, l-r: Audrey's helper, Spirit” Campaign, had completed a Audrey Huntley, and Gloria Alvernaz Mulcahy. report for Amnesty International on the missing and murdered Children in care: untold story Aboriginal Women across Canada. Jacobs explained, “The basic mes- By Curtis Wheatley posed to care for our Native chil- sage of Amnesty’s report is The life of Anishinabe children dren. My goal is to publish this addressing Canada, as to what they in care is gruelling. information as a novel and advocate are doing for Aboriginal women. Just like all beautiful life on this on behalf of Native families who All levels of government in Canada vast home we refer to as have endured the same should work urgently and closely Mother Earth, if you force problems. with Indigenous peoples, organiza- them from their home, the It is time to help people tions, and Indigenous Women.” Planting a violence-free future future will most likely be understand the huge impact Jacobs continued, “Sometimes it’s dark. With each moment that foster life can have on Last year the Amelia Rising Sexual Assault Centre of Nipissing planted very difficult to speak about, four cedar trees at the Amelia beach in North Bay. The trees have been lost thereafter to isolation, a child. If there is any pos- because we are talking about the ignorant adults and other sibility of change in the planted to honour the four directions of the Medicine Wheel. Cedar has spirits of these missing women. been chosen because of its sacred and healing properties. This year troubled foster children, it future, that would be a The spirits of these women are is no wonder so many are great thing, instead of gov- more sacred medicines were planted, including sage and strawberries Curtis leading this.” Every February 14 and some flowers to honour the women in our communities who have suf- struggling to find the hap- ernment workers saying Wheatley marches are held nationwide to fered from abuse. People are welcome to come and pick these medicines piness and love that are there have been changes advocate for our missing women. and use them in their healing or even add to the garden. On Monday often unknown to them. for a number of years, and we are Jacobs shared, “It was important at June 20 people are invited back to the garden and are asked to bring a I was born in Edmonton, only getting better. this time to recognize the hearts rock to form a circle around the garden. Participants are also asked to Alberta, and raised in British I believe for the benefit of chil- and responsibilities of our women bring a can of food to donate to the Amelia Rising food bank. For more Columbia for a good portion of my dren there has to be change now. I and make sure that something is information please contact the Amelia Rising Centre at 840-2403. life. My family and I have been know my loved ones and I aren’t done. One of the positive outcomes From left: Evelyn McLeod, Donna Forget, Carol Croxin, May Recollet, involved with social services since the only children who had no of S.I.S Campaign, is the unity Cindy Couchie, Jody Cotter, Roberta Oshkawbewisens Martin, Kayla the day I was conceived. When I choice of where they lived. Chi among our women and organiza- Lariviere, Doreen Bellaire, and Cathy Burns. – Photo by Cathy Ranger reached 19, I was officially out of Meegwetch to anyone who has care and considered another colo- taken time to read my true life story. nized Native Indian. I hope together we can break this My true story is about neglect, eternal silence one way or the other. broken homes, plenty of mistrust, child molestation, rape and bad fos- (This is the first in a series of ter parenting. My intention is to articles about the challenges facing inform the public about what is First Nations children. Written by often covered up on a consistent Curtis Wheatley, a citizen of basis by these people who are sup- Wasauksing First Nation.) The Abor Group (Energuide)

Biidaahban 6” x 6” Healing Centre

4” x 4.5” June 2005 Anishinabek News Page 7 Mno-bmaadziwin/Health ‘Denial’ key part Diabetes fund-raising of healing process now year-round effort By Stewart King remained in this state to vegetate NORTH BAY – Bob gle event. We remain committed As in everything there is a in a convalescent home. Goulais, Corporate Recruitment and focused on our overall goal – process to healing. My stroke Remedy came in the form of Chair for Juvenile Diabetes finding a cure for diabetes,” said (CVA, cardio vascular accident) Spiritual strength, Spirituality, Research Foundation (JDRF) – Goulais, who made a presenta- took to me from a healthy able- traditional medicines, western North Bay and Youth tion at North Bay City Council bodied young man into a state of medicines, physiotherapy, hard Ambassador Daniel Godfrey accompanied by nine semi-paralysis and dependence work, determination, and much announced that local fundraising children/youth living with dia- overnight. perseverance. Traditional Spiritual for a cure for diabetes will be betes. The sudden and unexpected helpers rallied around me, friends expanding to be a “year-round Under local coordinator fall to the bottom was sudden, and family offered continuous effort” and will branch off into Susan Shouwstra, the single sheer, and unstoppable. I woke up and solid support. My wife and other areas including special North Bay and area fund-raising the one morning in a hospital bed, lifelong partner deserves special events and sporting events. walk-a-thon has been expanded unable to comprehend what had consideration for her non-waver- “We will be expanding our to include ‘Walks to Cure happened. I was flat on my back, ing support and abundant aid. efforts to contribute year-round Diabetes’ in Temiscaming and in unable to talk, unable to eat or Native humour also played a Over $100,000 was raised for to the foundation while continu- Mattawa. The three events raised drink, unable to read or see prop- major role. Juvenile Diabetes Research in ing to hit our annual goal for the $103,000. surpassing the erly. My left arm and left leg were Goal-setting had to be within three fund-raising walk-a-thons Walk to Cure Diabetes,” said $92,000. target. held in North Bay, Mattawa, and useless and unable to function. my new and revised capabilities. Goulais, who is also the Chief- The JDRF has also Temiscaming. More than 400 indi- of-Staff for the Anishinabek announced it will be hosting the The entire left side of my body Acceptance of who I had become viduals and teams took part in the including my face was paralysed. and the new and inherent limita- Nation Political Office, repre- annual Partners Golf and June 4 North Bay event, including senting 42 First Nations across Billiards Tournament, slated for My first reaction, tions had to be learned Nipissing First Nation’s Jane my first instinct was through a process of Commanda who dressed as a Ontario. July 23 at Clear Springs Golf denial. There was noth- trial and error. pirate in keeping with the walk's “In North Bay, we have come Course; and will host the first ing wrong with me that Frustration was a con- "Swashbuckling Pirates" theme. to the conclusion that our efforts Snowflakes, Stars and Hope Gala I couldn’t just simply stant companion. Anger – Photo by Marc Archambault, cannot be focused only on the at the Best Western on November overcome. Determined built itself up within in courtesy of Baytoday.ca present, nor limited to only a sin- 12, 2005. to get up and go to the me frequently and cre- washroom unassisted, I ated problems for me succeeded in sliding and those close to me. AIDS circle supportive off my bed and stand- Stewart King I enrolled at ing on the floor. It was Georgian College and NIPISSING FN – It’s an important and often stressful job but very early in the morning and I decided to learn how to work Ontario First Nation Aids Educators have a circle to turn to when they was alone in my room. I managed with computers. need it. to take a few steps only to col- While it was difficult as a The Ontario First Nations HIV/AIDS Education Circle (OFN- lapse on the floor. Unable to get handicapped student to move HAEC) or as the group calls it, The Circle, was formed in 1996 main- up, I lay frustrated on that cold between classes, the courses were ly because there wasn’t any support group for First Nation AIDS floor and cried. a page from the business environ- Educators and Coordinators in the province. A cheery and helpful orderly ment in which providing assis- The members include representatives from each of the four brought me a magazine with tance and information is a daily Provincial Territorial Organizations (PTO’s): Association of Iroquois colour photographs showing occurrence. I succeeded in and Allied Indians (AIAI), Grand Council Treaty #3 (GCT3), what happens to an individual’s obtaining a string of A’s in my Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN), Union of Ontario Indians (UOI), and brain subsequent to a haemor- class. It was then that I deter- a representative from Independent First Nations (IFN) and an Elder rhaging occlusion. It was nauseat- mined that I was ready and need- and youth. ing to me and I heaved the book ed to move on. The direction that “It’s great that we can get together and support one another and across the room in a fit of rage I had needed had been provided. share ideas and teaching methods,” said Jody Cotter, UOI’s HIV/AIDS Coordinator. and anger. Denial is necessary and an Top: Christina Wheatley, Middle: Denial stayed with me, and integral part of survival and cling- Stanley Peltier, Doris Peltier, Elly The Circle meets quarterly and schedules teleconferences as need- finally the thought that I would, ing to life when you are in the Antone, Front: Lyndia Jones Jody ed with funds received from Health Canada, First Nations and Inuit and could overcome this misfor- darkest time of any physical Cotter, Holly Grosbeck Health Branch (FNIHB). tune and became stronger. mishap or emotional circum- Ultimately, this developed into stance. Your move from a state of intense curiosity of this disease. I denial can evolve from any peri- Catherine gets chef’s papers had to know how and why I od of time or influence. It is a cru- became this way. I inquired cial point in time in which you Congratulations to Catherine Free from Pays Plat First Nation who graduated from about my condition and read must decide to move from. To Culinary Management at Fanshawe College in London, Ontario. Catherine has worked in everything I could on the subject. remain may prove fatal. the field for the past five years and completed her Red Seal Chef exams with flying col- It became clearer and much easi- ors. er as education on my condition (Stewart King (Zhengos), She worked for the Delta London Armouries for two years and has moved to a resort enlightened me. I sought to reme- migizi odoodem, is a Potawatomi Catherine Free in the Muskokas for the summer season as a Junior Sous-chef. dy my condition. Had I elected to, Elder who lives in Wasauksing Mary Lou Auger, FASD Regional Worker at the Thunder Bay office is the proud moth- I could have given up and First Nation.) er of this accomplished chef. Anishinabek charity supports 46th addiction studies conference

By Kelly Brownbill Nation support workers, Employee tion and the latest innovations in tent and facilitators. Sadie Buck, nal support workers. To inquire BARRIE – For almost five Assistance providers and peer treatment. Highlights include drug well known writer, poet, play- about receiving help with funding, decades, The Institute on referral agents, social workers and use among the elderly, gambling wright and teacher will present a please call 1-866-278-3568. Addiction Studies has devoted clergy and spiritual workers. addiction, current medical and full-day workshop entitled Ad Delegates of the 46th Annual itself to the education and support The 46th Annual Institute on legal aspects of drug use and sub- “diction” to Your Voice. Institute on Addiction Studies can of people working in all areas of Addiction Studies will be held at stance-abusing pregnant women. In an effort to reach and assist earn up to 26 hours of continuing addiction treatment and preven- the Kempenfelt Conference Centre Recognizing the unquestion- as many people as possible, The education hours from the Canadian tion. in Barrie, July 10-14. able need for addiction support in Institute on Addiction Studies has Addiction Counsellors This five-day conference Over the years, the face of aboriginal communities, the received funding from the Certification Federation (CACCF). focuses on skills development and addiction has changed dramatical- Institute has always made sure that Anishinabek Nation Seventh Further information on the Institute providing self care and networking ly. In keeping pace with rapid issues specific to aboriginal treat- Generation Charities to help facili- on Addiction Studies, including all opportunities for care-givers. The advancements in the field, the con- ment and prevention were includ- tate the participation of First seminars and registration informa- conference will be of special inter- ference programming brings the ed. This year, there are several ses- Nation delegates. Educational tion, is available on the web site at est to addiction workers, First most current knowledge of addic- sions that include aboriginal con- subsidies are available to aborigi- www.addictionstudies.ca. Page 8 Anishinabek News June 2005 Meznibiiged/Arts

Tough times and thrown Boyden best-seller bottle inspires painting honours Pegamahgabow WASAUKSING FN – Joseph By Glenn Laginskie poor fellow is in tears and Boyden, the author of the new It was Victoria Day Weekend, I help him to his feet. novel, Three Day Road, stopped in 1999, in Phoenix, Arizona. To be I’m wearing a medi- Parry Sound for a public reading of precise the Monday evening of cine bag and he’s looking his first novel based on the life of the holiday weekend. at it and I take it from my Wasauksing First Nation member I had only been in Phoenix neck and put it on him. He Francis Pegamahgabow. one week and was staying in one looks at me with tears Three Day Road is in part of the worst areas of downtown rolling down his face. inspired by the legend of Phoenix where the shops and He says to me, “Us skins Pegamahgabow, the great sniper of businesses close at 6:00 pm, even don’t stand a chance down here.” World War I, whom Boyden heard McDonald’s. As it turns out ‘skins’ is a about from his father during the A street called Van Buren. word used by some to define Toronto. Georgian Bay summers of his I’m walking down Van Buren and Indians in the Southwest. I wait- The self-taught artist says it childhood. I see this Native fellow walking ed till the ambulance arrived and took two prison terms totalling The Toronto ahead of me about 100 feet or so. left the poor soul with these over 11 years for him to discover Star touted A pickup full of drunken rowdies words, “till we meet again,” and his creative artistic talents and him as the speeds by and one of the passen- that’s how this piece of art – roots. author to gers throws a beer bottle out his ‘Grieving Indian’ – came to me. He works as a construction watch this window and it hits the Native fel- Glenn Laginskie, Algonquins worker and operates Algonquin spring. Three low on the elbow, breaking. The of Pikwakanagan, lives in Arts and Crafts. (416) 850-2558. Day Road is a Author Joseph Boyden and Zaag mesmerizing Pegamahgabow, a Wasauksing FN novel told member and great-grandson of the Scholarships through the honoured war veteran and inspira- eyes of tion for the book. available for Niska, the last Canadian Oji-Cree – Photo by Jamie Monastyrski woman living off the land, and her nephew Xavier. Her nephew and science and the meaning of war. Native artists his friend Elijah travel in their “The novel encompasses a ELLIOT LAKE – White moccasins from Moose Factory to myriad of themes, the motif of Mountain Academy of the Arts Toronto to enlist during the First death being the foremost, and it has four $1000 tuition scholar- World War. The taunts of the white parallels the brutal massacre ships available for Aboriginal boys are silenced by the natives’ known as the first modern war and students interested in develop- prowess on the rifle range. Once the destruction of native culture ing a career in the visual arts. overseas, Elijah becomes obsessed with subtle poignancy.” says These scholarships are with killing taking greater risks Donna Nurse in Quill & Quire. We available for new students and lying for hours between the trench- think that Joseph Boyden will be can be used towards any of the es, while Xavier remains the silent up for the major literary awards Academy’s programs that aboriginal, struggling with his con- this year. include a two-year Visual Arts Diploma, a Traditional First Nations Art Certificate and a Painting and praying integral Business of Art Certificate. Qualified students that De-ba-jeh-mu-jig theatre to artist’s spiritual odyssey complete two years of study to earn a diploma at White The art of Zoey Wood- Mountain are eligible to contin- gets $300,000 grant Salomon is painted in the tradi- tional Woodland style that reflects ue their studies at the Ontario The Ontario government is supporting the cultural development of College of Art and Design to her Odawa-Ojibway heritage. The northern Aboriginal youth by investing $300,000 in De-ba-jeh-mu-jig originality of her paintings are complete a Bachelor of Fine Theatre Group's training and development centre, Northern Arts. marked by a combination of every- Development and Mines Minister Rick Bartolucci and Algoma- day experiences around her and The deadline for applica- Manitoulin MPP Mike Brown announced. tion submission to be eligible the traditional legends of her her- Minister Bartolucci (front row, second from left) is joined by the the- itage. for this scholarship is Friday atre's Artistic Director Jo Osawabine, Artistic Producer Ron Berti, pri- She is from the Wikwemikong July 22, 2005. vate sector benefactor A.J. (Rennie) Reynolds Mastin, MPP Brown, De- Unceded Indian Reserve on ba-jeh-mu-jig board member Nikki Manitowabi and Northern Ontario Manitoulin Contact: 1-800-368-8655 Heritage Fund Corporation board member Mariette McGregor- Island. With www.whitemountainacademy.edu Sutherland. international recognition, both in Artist finds solitude in creating works Canada and He works in stone, with the U.S.A., Zoey, a self- paint and even wood and taught artist birchbark. For artist Craig blends her McKay there isn’t a medium Zoey Wood- Salomon own spiritual he hasn’t tried. odyssey as a A member of Batchewana Christian into her work. Bay First Nation, McKay “For a long time I was lost. I picked up his paintbrush tried to blend into the dominant when he was four and it has- society but I never found a place n’t left his hand since. His art when I felt good about myself. My Zoey blends her art with her faith to create powerful images. is unique and in touch with Creator in His great love for me the natural world. saw this and He opened up a way “I find solitude and the for me to get back in touch with self-discovery. When I paint, I opportunity to learn about who I am and where I come from. pray. I find that I get very dissatis- myself and my place within Today He is leading me gently fied with myself when I do not nature,” he says. back to my culture, my heritage paint, and so, if I am not painting, Contact Craig McKay at 705- and my people. He has done this I am not praying.” Collectors and galleries from around the globe collect artist Craig 692-4016. through my art. My art and faith Contact: [email protected] McKay’s paintings and sculptures. have become integral parts of my 705-759-4897 June 2005 Anishinabek News Page 9 Giigoonh/Fishing M’Chigeeng FN fighting fish farm M’CHIGEENG FN – This approaching such a facility. First Nation is in a struggle to have Community members will have to their authority recognized in their travel around the cages a certain own traditional territory over a distance out to the middle of the fisheries issue. bay which can be quite treacher- Coldwater Fisheries has been ous. pushing the expansion of their fish And Chief Hare notes that both farm facilities in West Bay on proposed locations are very close Manitoulin Island without the con- to the plant that is the source of the sent or even consultation with the community’s drinking water. First Nation. They have been There are also concerns about developing this proposal for sever- the impact on local fish species al years now and have yet to con- and habitat, and the fact that a for- tact the First Nation directly. mer farm in Whitefish River terri- Coldwater’s proposal to tory was closed because of envi- expand is in the second stage of a ronmental concerns and to this day three-stage process with the has not been cleaned up. Stuart Beaucage of Nipissing First Nation prepares the hatchery for another season. Last year NFN released Ministry of the Environment. over 500,000 pickerel fry from this facility. Nowhere in the three stages of this process does it require any appli- cant to consult or seek approval by Nipissing releases million pickerel a First Nation in whose territory NIPISSING FN – The fish Nipissing. fry. Any small change in tempera- the project is being proposed. This hatchery on Nipissing First Nation The hatchery began collecting ture, oxygen levels or water quality major oversight and Coldwater (NFN) has released over 100,000 eggs in mid-April and released its could wipe out a whole year’s work. Fisheries avoidance have the more pickerel fry than last year’s fry at the end of May. Stuart NFN’s hatchery has sparked M’Chigeeng leadership frustrated total. Beaucage spent most of his time interest in other First Nations to with government and vowing to Under the watchful eye of tending the eggs and eventually the develop their own hatcheries. Chief keep this expansion from happen- hatchery technician Stuart fry. This work is no small task. Franklin Paibomsai of Whitefish ing in their waters. Beaucage and with 100% support “This year we had funding to River First Nation visited the NFN “It is a question of jurisdiction from his community, the facility hire Stuart to be our official hatch- facility along with council and com- and safety,” says Chief Glen Hare, was able to top 600,000 fry this ery technician” said Jeff McLeod, munity members, and Blaine “I said it before and I’ll say it spring. Only in its second year of NFN Fisheries Coordinator, “Last Commanda from Serpent River again, we just don’t want it here!” operations, the MFN hatchery has year he was a volunteer.” First Nation also called to inquire There are two possible loca- produced over 1.1 million fry to Unlike nine-to-five jobs, hatch- about how to start up a hatchery. tions in the West Bay. One is off date. This will increase in future ery work has its own natural sched- This year, fry were released the west-side shore and the other is years as technicians learn to make ule. A technician must be on call 24 along the north shore of Lake out in the middle of the bay. Both, better use of equipment and the nat- hours a day to respond to any Nipissing as well as on Iron Island, according to Chief Hare, have ural cycles of the pickerel and Lake change that may destroy the eggs or a major spawning area for pickerel. major problems. One concern is the restriction of community members to travel to M’Chigeeng FN Chief Glen Hare Fisheries project is one step closer traditional fishing areas when is frustrated with the government. WAHNAPITAE FN – This Littoral Index Netting (SLIN) was become excellent technicians, who Sudbury-area First Nation has just completed within a two-week time worked previously on the 2004 completed another fisheries project frame from May 9-20. Fall Walleye Index Netting and taken another step closer to Again this year, Larry and (FWIN) last year. Maureen Peltier developing their fisheries manage- Wally McGregor, both from and Kimberly Carmichael, both ment plan. Wahnapitae, guided the project for AOFRC Biologists, have worked The Lake Wahnapitae Spring the First Nation. Both have on the Wahnapitae crew as well for the last two years. “This and last year’s projects ran smoothly, with fair catches and good weather conditions,” said Wally McGregor, “although this year we didn’t catch as many lake trout as we would have liked.” In the first week, only one boat was available, so all four project members worked as a single crew on one boat because of a lack of nets for two boats. SUMMER HELP By the second week two boats Grant Stevens is the newest and youngest member of the were in the water with two sets of Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre (A/OFRC) SLIN nets. In total 90 sets were team joining as an Aboriginal Fisheries Technician. A mem- made lasting for 90-minute dura- ber of Nipissing First Nation (NFN), Grant credits his love for tions each. the outdoors to his father, long-time NFN Councillor Rick This year only ten healthy lake Stevens. trout were caught and sampled Although his employment will only be over the summer then released. The lake trout were months, ending September 2, his presence as a recent grad- netted along with one small mouth uate of the Fish and Wildlife Technician Program at Sir bass, 60 herring, five whitefish, Sandford Fleming College is very helpful to A/OFRC capaci- and a yellow perch. ty-building efforts. Although there was an increase “I will take the summer off to work, than return for the Natural in the recommended sample size Resource Law Program,” says Grant, “From there I plan to from 60 net sets to 90 net sets the start a career in law enforcement and hope to help my com- crew did not sample enough lake munity any way I can.” trout to make conclusions on the Larry and Wally McGregor guide the Wahnapitae fishing project. health of that particular population. Page 10 Anishinabek News June 2005 Dnakmigziwin/Sports Spirits soar in 3-on-3 tourney By Denise Desormeaux Chippewa Youth Council member Megan Huff CHIPPEWAS OF THE THAMES – Hearts raced, noted: “It’s great to come here, to a community that is arms stretched, and spirits soared at Wiijii so encouraging and supportive of their youth.” Megan Nimbawiiyaang Elementary School’s “3 on 3 is currently completing her graduating year at Regina Boys’ Junior Division (Grade 6) Champs “Oneida Eagles,” from left: Basketball Tournament” held May 12th. Mundy High School and aspires to become a Clinical Salakwa Doxtator, Brennan Nicholas, Cody Doxtator, and Jordan Grades 5 to 8 students from Walpole Island, Psychologist. “It’s important to set goals, and work to Cornelius. Moraviantown, Kettle and Stony Point, Oneida achieve those goals,” she added. Settlement of the Thames, and Chippewas of the National Hockey League player Cody Thames, participated in the event, which was support- McCormick, also of the Chippewas of the Thames, ed by Middlesex Victim Services, Wiijii delivered an inspiring speech, “I worked hard in Nimbawiiyaang Staff, RCMP, OPP, “Blue Wolf” school, I stayed away from all the bad things. It was Singers “Zhowski Maiingan” (OPP Drum Group), and my dream to play in the NHL.” McCormick described Chippewa, Oneida, and Moraviantown Police. the dedication, sacrifice, and hard work that he After Zhowski Maiingan opened the event with a endured to reach his goals. He had left home at the welcoming song, Chippewas of the Thames Band age of 16 to play junior hockey with the Belleville Councillor, George Henry extended a greeting to par- Bulls and improve his hockey skills before being ticipants from the host community. drafted by the Colorado Avalanche, for whom he played in 2003-2004. Girls Senior Division (Grade 8) Champs “Chippewa Blazers,” from left: Tim Kunkel, who works in Glencoe as liaison for Vince George (Chippewa Police), Emily Kechego, Jeff Clarke (Wiiji Chippewa, Oneida, and Muncey, said “We’re all win- Teacher), Maggie Hendrick, Tim Kunkel (Police Liaison), Cheyenne ners. It’s about having a good time and playing lots of French, Vangeline Kechego, and Luke Wadilove (Chippewa Police). basketball!” All teams gave their best effort throughout the day's competitions. The teamwork, sportsmanship, Beausoleil getting in shape and awesome basketball skills shone through in every BEAUSOLEIL FN – The Ontario government is supporting the game played. Chippewas of Beausoleil First Nation with a grant to increase physical activ- Championship Results: ity and help young athletes who wish to compete in the 2006 North American Junior Girls – Walpole Island Indigenous Games. Junior Boys – Oneida The $75,603 grant from the Communities in Action Fund will be used to Senior Girls – Chippewas of the Thames plan and implement physical activity programs for youth aged seven to eight- Senior Boys – Chippewas of the Thames een, and for seniors 50 years of age and older. Youth will be offered clinics in Luke Waddilove, of the Chippewas of the Thames five sports, which will work to stimulate ongoing sport participation in this Police, told participants “The real winners today are group, possibly leading to participation in the North American Indigenous you guys! I appreciate the sportsmanship I’ve seen. Games in 2006. A functional fitness program for seniors will also be imple- Brennan Nicholas of Oneida Eagles protects the bas- You guys should give each other a great round of mented, with sessions to instruct this group on ways to be active on a regular ketball from a Kettle and Stony Point player during the applause because you are the ones that made this hap- basis. By targeting youth and seniors, it is expected that these programs will junior 3-on-3 championship play-offs, won by Oneida. pen today!” reach 50 per cent of the Beausoleil community.

NAAF 10.25 x 7 June 2005 Anishinabek News Page 11 Kidowenan/Communications Native journalists still a very rare breed WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Native American Journalists Association is dis- appointed by numbers released by the American Society of Newspaper Editors showing a drop in the number of American Indian journalists working at U.S. newspapers. Native journalists already are the most under-represented group in the Students Michelle Manitowabi, Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve, and Ken Sackaney, Constance Lake First Nation, par- American newsroom. And despite a professed desire to increase newsroom diver- ticipated in the first-ever MCTV Communications Camp, co-ordinated by the broadcaster’s Aboriginal Relations Co-ordinator sity, the number of American Indians working at mainstream newspapers has fall- Candalee Beatty. en in the last year, highlighting a disturbing trend in ASNE’s numbers. If ASNE’s numbers are accurate, there are only 295 Native journalists work- ing at U.S. newspapers – a mere one half of one per cent of overall newsroom MCTV recruits Native students employees. A Ryerson University study in 1994 indicated there were four self- By Maurice Switzer cameras. “It was a delightful experience working identified aboriginal journalists among the 4,000 employed by Canada’s 100 SUDBURY – As a major provider of news and with these students – they taught us a few things.” daily newspapers. information in Northern Ontario, MCTV is trying Candalee Beatty, MCTV’s Aboriginal More troubling than the immediate drop is a fluctuation in recent-year num- to do more than offer its viewers a variety of sto- Relations Co-ordinator, agreed. “There were a few bers that seems to indicate either an unwillingness or an inability of U.S. news- ries. The four-city television network also wants excellent writers here,” she noted. “These camps papers to retain Native journalists. to have a variety of faces telling those stories. The are important because it gives our young people a “Many of our students don’t attend the big journalism schools and don’t enter network staged its first-ever Aboriginal Youth chance to tell our own stories. When aboriginal the traditional internship programs,” said NAJA president Dan Lewerenz (Iowa Communication Camp for 26 students of LaSalle people tell stories, it is completely different.” Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska). “They’re no less talented, and they’re no less ded- Secondary School, the first of three similar events Beatty, from Muskoday Cree First Nation in icated – they’re simply harder to find. That means editors need to be willing to planned for this year to promote television broad- Saskatchewan, is a graduate of Cambrian look beyond the comfort of the familiar J-schools and internship programs if casting as a career option for aboriginal youth. College’s journalism program. MCTV created her they're going to recruit talented young Native journalists.” “We have to change the face of MCTV… and position last year to develop an aboriginal resource “Newspaper executives must be willing to go the extra mile in order to the industry,” says Mark Oldfield, the northern directory that includes information about First increase Native representation in their newsrooms,” added Lewerenz. broadcaster’s executive producer. “We’re not get- Nations communities and aboriginal businesses “They need to reach out to Native communities and demonstrate a commit- ting nearly enough applications from aboriginal and organizations in the network’s coverage area. ment to covering Indian people and Indian issues.” college and university students, so we need to get It also includes some guidelines on appropriate out and start encouraging candidates. We’re hop- aboriginal terminology and style. “Yesterday I ing there are at least five or six students in the read a story on our website where somebody was three schools we visit that start thinking about our calling pow-wow regalia ‘costumes’,” she says. business.” “Part of my role is correcting things like that, and The Grades 9 to 12 students participating in the capitalization of First Nations.” MCTV camps at LaSalle in Sudbury, Manitoulin “We’re hoping through these camps to inspire Secondary School at M’Chigeeng, and White students to come to MCTV.” Judging by student Pines Academy in Sault Ste. Marie spent the day response to the first camp, the recruiting strategy scripting hypothetical news stories – like one seems to be working. Evaluations overwhelming- about a nightclub featuring “Movie-oke” – like ly rated the day-long session “good” and “excel- karaoke, but where patrons act out movie scenes. lent.” “They produced very good work,” says Oldfield, “I learned that it takes a lot of work to make a whose MCTV team also provided participants story ready to be shown on the news,” wrote one with hands-on experience with television news participant. “And only a little time to do it.” Careers for communicators Anishinabek News and the Union of Ontario Indians Communications Unit were well-repre- sented at the Wasse-Abin High School Career Fair on Wikwimikong Unceded Indian Reserve in May. Priscilla Goulais, UOI Communications Co-ordinator, demonstrated computer software used to paginate the newspaper and talked about careers in the communications field to inter- ested students. The focus was on media at this year’s fair, attended by over 200 participants. Special guests included actor/TV producer Jennifer Podemski, music program producer Elaine Bomberry, De-ba-jeh-mu-jig Theatre, MCTV, and Wiky TV Productions. Wanted: Native broadcasters TORONTO – As part of CHUM television’s commitment to encouraging Aboriginal participation in Canadian broadcasting, MuchMusic is proud to offer Let’s Speak Ojibway the annual MuchMusic Aboriginal Youth Scholarship. The $3,000 scholarship is awarded in partnership with AYN (Aboriginal Youth Network) to the individual who best demonstrates skill, talent, excellence and enthusiasm in pursuing a future in the broadcast industry. Open to all Aboriginal Canadians under 25. Deadline: November 30, 2005. Application form, scholarship criteria and other 6” x 6” details at www.muchmusic.com/mays.

Training to communicate Jamie Monastyrski, the Union of Ontario Indians Communications Officer, delivered an intro- ductory communications workshop for UOI staff at the Elders Hall in May. Subjects included the importance and history of communications, basic writing techniques and photography made simple. UOI Communications is planning to deliver a series of staff workshops entitling participants to training certificates. Participants included: front, from left: Jamie Monastyrski, Nadine Payette, Jason Restoule; rear, from left:Nicole Robinson, Holly Brodhagen, Bernadette Marasco, Cathy Favreau, Doreen Trudeau, Dave Shawana, Jody Cotter, Esther Gilbank. Page 12 Anishinabek News June 2005 Zhoonyaakewin/Economic Development Sudbury students win silver business award EDMONTON – The winners competition features interactive mock-ups, product samples, busi- can be accomplished by its limit- of the fifth annual E-Spirit business planning resources, ness cards, promotional videos less boundaries. Just from partici- Aboriginal Youth Business Plan access to mentors online and a and laptop demonstrations. pating in this event, every student Competition were honoured at a chance to meet and network with “This competition exposes leaves a winner.” special awards ceremony in May other students. students to real-life situations they The Silver Award was award- for 240 Aboriginal youth from all This year’s competition will encounter in the business ed to Sudbury Secondary School, regions of Canada, including two involved a total of 161 teams from world,” said André Bourdeau, whose students Patricia and schools from Ontario. 74 schools and over 534 students Acting BDC President and CEO. Jordan Debassige created the busi- The internet-based competi- from across Canada. In addition to “E-Spirit symbolizes educa- ness concept Debassige Vision tion, developed by the Business presentations by each team, an tion,” said E-Spirit Elder, Dr. Workshops, designed to conduct Development Bank of Canada independent panel of experts Lillian McGregor. “It has workshops for aboriginals on var- Silver Award winners Jordan and Patricia (BDC), is aimed at Aboriginal stu- judged business displays that enhanced the participant's knowl- ious aspects of aboriginal culture Debassige, Sudbury Secondary School. dents in Grades 10 to 12. The included posters, detailed 3D edge of technology and in what and modern-day family life. Wallaceburg honouring Walpole Chief By Rick Fehr WALLACEBURG – For the first time in its history, this southwestern Ontario town has presented a Native man with one of its highest honours. Walpole Island Chief Dean Jacobs (Ojibway – Potawatomi) was awarded 2004 Business Person of year by the area’s Chamber of Commerce, in an event he describes as recognizing the eco- Media Buying Services nomic achievements of all Anishinaabeg. The mid-April award ceremony Min. of Finance marks just one more Chief Dean Jacobs in a series of achieve- ments by the people of Walpole Island Savings Body (Bkejwanong Territory), who among other things have recently been recognized by the United Nations for maintaining one of the world’s most fragile wetland ecosystems. In balancing the pressures and demands of the economy and maintaining ecological diversity, Walpole Island has become an 8” x 10.75” example of how traditional values, capital- ism, and sustainability can co-exist in a fragile balance. Chief Jacobs attributes the success to community mobilization as they collectively face water-borne pollution from Sarnia’s Chemical Valley, invasive plants and insects, and the continued social marginalization of its people. While some people might think of it as wishful thinking, nearby non-Native com- munities have increasingly found them- selves needing allies on Walpole Island to tackle common economic and environmen- tal problems. Wallaceburg found a strong ally in Walpole Island throughout the 1990’s to confront chemical spills in the St. Clair River, and now as the town suffers from an economic slump Walpole Island is being turned to again, this time as an exam- ple of sustainable economics. The commu- nity hosts one of the largest Native operat- ed farming co-ops (which all members hold shares in) with crop production on more than 4,400 acres. Similarly, the area’s wet- lands continue to support traditional hunt- ing, fishing and gathering, while at the same time sustaining wetland eco-tourism. Chief Jacobs said “the answer’s within, you don’t have to export or import answers, a lot of traditional knowledge comes from within, and just living and learning and knowing the local area and the Great Lakes environment.”

(Rick Fehr is an environmental studies student at York University.) June 2005 Anishinabek News Page 13 National role model inspired by visit to Sagamok By Thomas Edwards stick out of the rocks. My first Community Development 10-year Point” (Sagamok Point) were to heal. Aboriginal people have so During May I was in Sagamok impression was to be curious Action Plan, the Comprehensive amazing to see. much to heal from history yet still Anishawbek First Nation. because I didn’t know what she was Youth Development Strategy Youth At The Point we saw eagles and face a lot of tragedy today. My It’s a community just outside a talking about. As we turned a bend, Team, and the Waste Management vultures. Hawks were everywhere. heart, soul, and prayers went out to little town called Massey. Massey, there was this rock sticking out and Diversion Program, the politics I love animals and this place was the family and the community dur- a small town an hour and half west over the road. You’d almost think on the community, the job situation, full of them. Later that night, the ing my entire visit and I hope that of Sudbury, Ontario is quiet, tran- that it was going to fall. Then sud- and the youth. It was so great to see community had a small pow-wow they have that chance to heal. quil, and almost hidden. Unless denly, a face appeared and I was a community that was trying to where many of the youth came. It My trip to Sagamok you were driving to Sault St. Marie completely amazed. Little did I make a made my heart soar to see a non- Anishnawbek First Nation was the or traveling down that road, you’d know that the Indian Head wasn’t change in our Aboriginal woman dancing in a most powerful, rewarding, and fun never know it was there. It’s a nice the only cool thing I would see over people’s lives purple jingle dress and dancing trips that I have ever taken. As a little town of few people. the next two days. and make because it was a part of her, not National Aboriginal role model, my Sagamok, on the other hand is a I’ve been on many tours around changes for something she was trying to be a job is to inspire and instil a message much larger community. With a communities when I visit as a role the better. part of. It was great to be able to in youth, “Lead Your Way!” But it population of about 1300 people, model, but this one had to be the It was so dance in another community and is I who was inspired by the youth it’s hidden behind Massey, across a nicest. The one thing that struck great to see a territory. As I was introduced to and the community on this trip. I river, and around a rock. me as a young Aboriginal person community other people, each one did the same will never forget that community The scenery in that area is beau- was the pride and joy that the youth with so much thing. Smile, extend their arm, say and I will use that community as an tiful. The river was one of the take in their communities. We don’t pride. It was Thomas Edwards hi, and ask me how I was doing. example of what Aboriginal people nicest things I had ever seen. As we get that enough in our native com- so great to be You don’t see that too often where and communities can do. Sagamok drove, my hosts told me to watch munities in Manitoba. looked at and welcomed into a an entire community welcomes a is a very progressive community out for an Indian head that would I’ve learned about the community without someone won- stranger and treats them very and as a role model, but more dering why I was there. As we respectfully and nicely. importantly as a person, I’ve been toured the community I was greatly The community had just lost a humbled, touched, and healed by impressed to see the Eagle’s Lodge, 16-year-old boy to suicide the day this very cool and awesome com- where Elders who don’t need 24/7 before I arrived and yet, still kept munity. care can stay. The duplexes, triplex- going while honouring this young es, and the two apartments man. As a person, that touched and (Thomas Edwards, Ojibwe from impressed me. The beaches, the inspired me. I was glad to see that Winnipeg, is enrolled in the recycle program, garbage program, the community was trying hard to University of Manitoba’s Education Travelodge City school, law enforcement, and “The do something about it and continue Program.)

4” x 4” Birch Pine Bark

Golf Tournament

6” x 8.75” Media Buying Services Bear Wise

4” x 6” Page 14 Anishinabek News June 2005 Kinoomaagewin/Education Keesha: Cold-water Tide cleans clothes best! By Denise Desormeaux CHIPPEWAS OF THE THAMES – As the brilliant spring tulips blossomed, Wiijii Nimbawiiyaang students proudly dis- played their colourful and intricate creations at their Annual Science Fair. On May 11, the school gymnasium was adorned with numerous masterpieces that exemplified the inquisitiveness, dedication, and creativity of the Wiijii Nimbawiiyaang students. “Behind every single project, there’s a family that has been involved. It gives families a chance to work together,” explained Keesha Doxtator gains valuable, first-hand experience washing dirty Medical Science student Samantha Carol-Anne Dendias, Wiiji Nimbawiiyaang’s Science Fair co-ordi- shirts with Cold Water Tide. Boshart enjoyed judging exhibits. nator and Grade 4 teacher. Grade 6 student Larry Fisher oozed enthusiasm. “I found that there is electricity in almost everything. If you have two of the same electrons, they will not touch, but if they were different, they would touch.” With the support of his Father, Larry created The Trickster. “This baby can teach people to make their hand steady!” he beamed. Similar to the children’s board game Operation, The Trickster makes a buzzing sound when the metal object passing over it came in contact. In the primary division, Skye Kennedy happily shared her expe- rience in creating her project, “The Bear”, noting that she most enjoyed creating a mini-bear den out of a balloon and papier mache. “My Grandma helped me,” she added. Grade 5 student Keesha Doxtator smiled as she explained the process of her “Laundry Detergent” experiment. “The materials I used were water, Sunlight, Cold Water Tide, Gain, and stained t- shirt cloths. My hypothesis was right – Cold Water Tide cleaned Larry Fisher proudly displays his science Skye Kennedy and her popular “Bear” display that she the best!” creation, known as “The Trickster.” made with support from her Grandmother. Lakehead’s ‘frog lady’ honoured for 30 years By Irvin Marshall Program and teach from 1993-96. Wikwemikong Board of Education THUNDER BAY – Along the During her third year of teach- way we get to meet role models or ing at McMaster, Dolores suffered mentors who have pioneered a a massive stroke; an aneurysm left Job Posting path for the rest of us. Just such a her paralyzed and barely clinging person would be to life. Her family was Professor Dolores told she might not sur- Wawia who joined vive the ordeal and Last Lakehead University’s Rites were administered. 6” x 7” faculty 30 years ago – July Dolores received her 1, 1975. Masters Degree of Professor Wawia Education at Lakehead was one of the first University, where she Aboriginal educators has been teaching since and most certainly one 1982. She doubles as a of the first Aboriginal volunteer “Storyteller” women, to be hired by Dolores Wawia and goes by the name of a university in Canada. Muk Kee Queh (Frog As Lakehead celebrates its Lady). She laughs as she describes 40th Anniversary plans are being how she got this name as an made to honour Dolores for her infant. contributions and as a mentor to “My mother came in to check her culture. Professor Wawia on me in the living room, and accepts her role model status. there on the floor by my tikinagan “They will say to themselves, ‘If was this huge bull frog. She she can do it then so can I!’ and picked me up and ran to her moth- that is a good thing.” er’s house to tell of what she had Brought up in Gull Bay First seen and Dolores’ grandmother Nation, she is the eldest of 12 chil- said, ‘Then that’s what going to be dren, six of whom also possess her name, Frog Lady.’” The cus- academic degrees. After a high tom was that you were given your school guidance counselor told name in accordance with the first her that she was “not university animal to look upon you after material,” Dolores attended birth. McMaster University, where she achieved a Bachelor of Arts in Irvin Elwood Marshall is a 1974, and where she returned to Native artist and writer living in establish the Indigenous Studies Thunder Bay. June 2005 Anishinabek News Page 15

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Full Colour Page 16 Anishinabek News June 2005 Bmaadziwin/Culture Whitefish singing in the rain By Perry McLeod- Shabogesic WHITEFISH RIVER FN – It was cold and wet at Whitefish River Chief Franklin Whitefish River First Nation Paibomsai (Shining Turtle) and May 13, 2005, but the rainy son Eli (Shining Son). day didn’t put a damper on the spring and dance for their par- community’s annual chil- ents, Elders and community dren’s pow-wow, one of the members. It is a time for them first of the year in to lead the dance for that new Anishinabek territory. life that has just awoken. Chief Franklin Paibomsai “It is a wonderful day for (Shining Turtle) welcomed our children and our commu- everyone to this year’s version nity,” says Chief Paibomsai. of the small but special gath- “Each year our small pow- ering, which moved indoors to wow gets a little bigger. The the community centre com- community stages its 12th plex. The children of the annual pow-wow Aug. 20-21, community stage this pow- but this one is a special event FRIENDSHIP BELT wow every year to honour the for our children.” The Great Lakes Treaty wampum belt of 1764 signified the peace and friendship that existed between the Anishinabek peoples of the Great Lakes and the British Colonial government. The belt was on display at the first annual Gravenhurst Native Cultural Celebration, and is shown being held by Terry Sahanation, Wahta Mohawks, event organizer Rolf Cohrs, and Maurice Switzer, director of communications for the Union of Ontario Indians. Nipissing Gravenhurst celebrates goes Native spring GRAVENHURST – The first annual Native Culture NIPISSING FN – Celebration days June 4-5 in Although it has been done this resort town were attend- since the beginning of time, ed by nearly 1,000 people. feasting Bundles and Eagle Organizer Rolf Cohrs was Feathers is of growing impor- applauded for his efforts in tance to many Anishinabek. launching the event by This tradition has also Grass dancer Malachi McLeod- Mayor John Klinck, whose become a custom of the Shabogesic, participated in Nbisiing Education Centre's town council was involved in youth. spring celebrations. staging the event at Gull On Monday May 2, Lake Park. Nbisiing Education Centre in trying to guide us on our Federal minister of agri- celebrated the coming of the journey. culture Andy Mitchell was on spring by feasting all the Nbisiing Education hand for the official opening sacred items students, teach- Centre, located on Nipissing of the event, which featured ers and community members First Nation near North Bay, the Sobriety Singers Drum brought to the gathering. has been leading the way in group, dancers from Dancers shared their skills as reclaiming culture and lan- Mnjikaning First Nation, cul- the grandfather drum called in guage in the area. Students tural teacher Terry the spirits and spirit helpers to learn Ojibwe in class and Sahanation from Wahta share in the food that had organize special cultural Mohawk Territory, totem- been prepared. Teachings events and ceremonies during pole carving by Wayne were shared on the impor- the school year. Smith, demonstration of tance of this day and feeding “It’s such a wonderful longhouse building by the spirits that help us each thing to see our youth cele- Ontario School of Masonry day in our lives. This should brating this day,” said Muriel students, and a display by be done at least four times a GULL BAY BRICKER – Zhaninodin King, 21, Gull Bay First Nation, is Sawyer, Principal of Nbisiing Muskoka Wildlife Centre. a student at the Ontario School of Masonry in Gravenhurst. He demon- year. Feasting gives nourish- Education Centre. “The strated his trade during Gravenhurst’s first annual Native Cultural ment to them but also cele- school plans to do this every – Photos by Linda McRae Celebration June 4. – ‘Views by Linda’ Photography brates the work they do for us year.” FACES AT ODAWA POW-WOW TRADITIONAL DANCER Noodin Shawanda, Odawa/ Pottawattomi from Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve, was at the May 28 Odawa FASHION-CONSCIOUS Bernadette Riley and Jackie Fisher of the Bkejwanong First Pow-Wow, and is a Nation launched Authentic Tribal Apparel a few years ago and business has been brisk, CHARLIE’S ANGELS is what Carmen Nelms and Angelique Hill of Six Nations, regular on the according to the entrepreneurs, seen taking a break from sales at the May 28 Odawa Pow- and Cindy Deschenes of Kitigan Zibi FN, call themselves. They were working Ontario pow-wow Wow. Catch them on the pow-wow trail this summer for authentic designed sweatshirts and the traditional food trailer Charlie’s Foods at the Odawa Pow-Wow May 28. circuit. leisure wear. – Photos by Jamie Monastyrski June 2005 Anishinabek News Page 17

Resource strategy to be based on treaty rights WHITEFISH LAKE FN – The the adversarial approach to recog- Chiefs of the Lake Huron region nition of these rights (i.e. the (formerly Robinson Huron) courts). The Union of Ontario received the first draft of Grand Indians already has a number of Council Chief John Beaucage’s forums for discussion and analysis, rights-based Natural Resources including the Anishinabek-Ontario Strategy during a regional Chiefs Fisheries Resource Centre and the meeting held May 4. This discus- Anishinabek-Ontario Resource sion document details an ambitious Management Council. plan to work towards the full Grand Council Chief Beaucage recognition of aboriginal and treaty has proposed an introduction to Partners in crime prevention rights within Anishinabek Nation treaty rights for the Ontario Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief John Beaucage delivered a workshop on the challenges of Urban territory. Cabinet, which will be a starting Aboriginal Youth at May's Northeastern Ontario Community Mobilization for Crime Prevention Conference at “We’ve been told by the Chiefs point to introducing a rights-based Nipissing University in North Bay. Here, Beaucage interprets the Great Lakes Treaty Wampum Belt for Staff and our citizens that it is necessary approach. For the past two months, Sergeant Irving Sloss, a conference organizer, and conference participant Dale Ribson, CFB Petawawa. to continue to enhance and protect he has been meeting with provin- – Photo by Maurice Switzer our treaty and aboriginal rights,” cial Ministers to move along the said Grand Council Chief John issue of inter-treaty harvesting. Beaucage. “From resource man- Thus far, both Minister Michael Residential school optimism agement to traditional ecological Bryant and Minister David knowledge to harvesting – all of Ramsey have expressed their sup- NIPISSING FIRST NATION – fastly pursued this cause for over a residential school survivor, and an these are fundamentally tied to portive of these discussions and Grand Council Chief John decade,” said Beaucage. “His pub- additional $3,000 for each year these sacred documents we call getting the question of inter-treaty Beaucage is optimistic that the lic acknowledgment of his resi- spent in the schools. treaties.” harvesting “out of the courts” to be appointment of a federal mediator dential school experience has “Compensation is important to The document calls for a strat- managed by First Nations them- will expedite a fair settlement for helped give other survivors the many survivors whose residential egy to use the new Government of selves in cooperation with the thousands of residential school courage to begin their healing school experience directly con- Ontario – Political Confederacy MNR. survivors. process, and to help Canadians tributed to lives of poverty and table to open a comprehensive dia- The Southeast Region is also The federal government understand the tremendous soci- social dysfunction,” said logue on Aboriginal and Treaty expected to be a focus of the announced that former Supreme economic damage these schools Beaucage. “But in the long term, Rights, especially with regard to Natural Resources strategy. Grand Court Judge Frank Iacobucci will inflicted on First Nations peo- reconciliation and healing will be Natural Resources. In March, the Council Chief Beaucage has com- mediate ongoing talks for the fed- ples.” the most valuable contributions to province of Ontario and the mitted to looking into the harvest- eral government and report by “Those who do not understand Canada's national well-being. Political Confederacy established a ing rights of the Williams Treaty, March on whether all former stu- the devastating inter-generational Healing can best begin with a roundtable, a forum where Senior which the government has argued dents should receive lump-sum impacts of residential schools say meaningful apology from Prime Cabinet Ministers can meet with were extinguished when the treaty rewards for damages, sources said. aboriginal people need to forget Minister Paul Martin.” the Grand Chiefs of Ontario’s was signed in 1923. Regardless of He'll also explore the value of a about the past and just get on with Beaucage said it is also impor- Political Territorial Organizations the Williams Treaty arguments, R. truth-telling forum for abuse sur- their lives,” said Beaucage. “We tant that the government follow up (PTOs). The roundtable is expect- v. Powley set forward significant vivors, and the need for an apolo- can no more forget about the last- March’s mediation findings with a ed to meet at least twice per year. precident that recognizes the right gy from the prime minister. ing legacy of residential schools comprehensive public education An announcement of this new to hunt and fish as an aboriginal Beaucage congratulated than Jewish communities around campaign about aboriginal peoples forum is expected in early June. right. Although the specific case National Chief Phil Fontaine, the world can forget about the and issues, something that he says The primary objective of this was in reference to the Metis right, whose lobbying for lump-sum set- Holocaust.” was not sustained after Canada’s strategy is to begin the process of this may open the door to discus- tlements prompted today’s The Assembly of First Nations 1998 official response to the report recognition and respect of aborigi- sion based on the First Nation abo- announcement. has proposed a basic cash payment of the Royal Commission on nal and treaty rights; and diffuse riginal right to hunt and fish. “The National Chief has stead- of $10,000 to each recognized Aboriginal Peoples. Lake Huron Chiefs hopeful for new Ontario attitude on resource issues WHITEFISH LAKE FN – appearance of Josephine development of this business based tionship with Ontario is emerging. assembly in entering a plea of not Resources and their management Mandamin, Executive Director of on jurisdiction. “We just don’t The Anishinabek-Ontario trapping guilty. He hoped to invoke his topped the list of items discussed at the Ontario Native Women's want it in our community,” said harmonization agreement had been treaty right and aboriginal right the May meeting of Lake Huron Association and leader of the Chief Hare. “This is not an issue signed in Sault Ste. Marie, opening with the blessing of the Regional Chiefs. Anishinabe Kwe Water Walkers, with the industry as a whole but is some areas for resource-issue dia- Anishinabek Nation. Chief Pat Over three dozen Chiefs, who spoke to the gathering on the about our right to decide what goes logue. Both the Anishinabek Madahbee of Aundeck-Omni- Councillors, Union of Ontario importance of the walk around on in our territory,” he added. A Nation and the province are also Kaning First Nation, pointed out Indians staff and community mem- Lake Huron and the sacredness of unanimous resolution supported looking at moving forward with an that the legal opinion does not bers attended the leadership gather- water. She also encouraged other the M’Chigeeng position. inter-treaty harvesting agreement address First Nation inherent right ing in Whitefish Lake First Nation. women to stand up and embrace Grand Council Chief John as well. It is hoped to have this and that it is limited. “If we lose Elder Gordon Waindubence their responsibility to the water. Beaucage reported that a new rela- approved by both sides by the fall. this we will be boxed in,” said shared the opening prayer in Coldwater Maheengun Chief Madahbee. “It is unreason- Anishinaabemowin to give the Fish Farms Shawanda, of able to think that we as people only meeting a proper start. The encroachment in Wikwemikong hunted in one place.” Anishinabek Bundle was also pres- M’Chigeeng tra- Unceded It was felt that the attitude of ent to help the leadership with ditional territory Indian Reserve some Conservation Officers decision-making through ceremo- without permis- was given time allowed these types of cases to go ny. sion from the First on the agenda as far as they do, that the officers Regional Lake Huron Grand Nation was a to discuss want to make a point with First Chief Angus Toulouse, Sagamok topic of some hunting Nation harvesters by hassling Anishinawbek, and Chief Theresa concern. Chief charges that them. It is hoped that the new rela- Migwans from Whitefish Lake Glen Hare sought had been laid tionship that is beginning with the First Nation provided opening support from the against him Ontario Ministry will help avoid comments and welcomed everyone assembly to fur- last fall. He these situations in future. The UOI to the community and territory. ther their position Grand Council Chief John Beaucage addresses Lake Huron Regional sought support legal counsel will review A meeting highlight was the on resisting any Chiefs’ meeting. from the Maheengun’s situation. Page 18 Anishinabek News June 2005

2500 to attend Kettle & Stony Point Unity Gathering KETTLE & STONY POINT – The Chippewas of Kettle and Stony Point and the Union of Ontario Indians have been working cooperatively to host the inaugural Unity Gathering in conjunction with the 2005 Grand Council Assembly. This five-day event will be the largest political gathering in Ontario’s history and will host close to 2,500 people for a pow-wow, vision- ing session, and the Chiefs Assembly, as well as a number of other exciting community events. There will be a number of highlights on each day of the gathering. Beginning on Saturday, June 25 the Anishinabek Nation will renew its ties with the Metis Nation of Ontario as their sacred pipes and songs will be unit- ed together in ceremony. The Executive of the Metis Nation of Ontario will be in attendance including President Tony Belcourt. Following the day-long pow-wow, an evening of entertainment will be hosted by co-MC and special guest Adam Beach. On Sunday, June 26, the Anishinabek Nation will take some time to remember Dudley George and recognize his family led by his brother Sam George. The pow-wow participants will also recognize the work of the Ipperwash Inquiry, including Commissioner Sidney B. Linden. The Sunday will feature an evening of story-telling including a guest performance of De- baj-uh-muh-jig Theatre Group. Monday, June 27 will feature a day-long vision session of Women, Elders, Promoting AIDS awareness Youth and Leadership which will assist the Union of Ontario Indians in devel- Christina Wheatley and Doris Peltier of the Ontario First Nations HIV/AIDS Education Circle (OFNHAEC) pres- oping their strategic plan and Nation Building initiatives for the years to come. ent Anishinabek Grand Council Chief John Beaucage with an AIDS Awareness jacket at a recent meeting held The evening will include a traditional feast and the first annual Youth at the Union of Ontario offices. Achievement Awards. The Grand Council Assembly will also feature some memorable activities. On Tuesday, June 28, the Union of Ontario Indians will sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ontario Federation of Indian Friendship Centres. This significant step in the Anishinabek Urban Strategy, will recognize Ontario’s Friendship Centers as their primary urban service delivery agency. No longer will the Anishinabek Nation only include the 42 member First Nations, but will also include the 28 Friendship Centres across the province. Finally, on Wednesday, June 29, the lead negotiators for both Canada and the Anishinabek Nation will initial the Governance Agreement-in-Principle, signaling the end of the negotiations and the start of the ratification process. The Governance negotiations of the Restoration of Jurisdiction project began in 1998. This agreement includes selection of leaders, citizenship, law-mak- ing authority, appeals and redress processes, community constitutions and fis- cal relations. Sacred Pipes smoked KETTLE & STONY POINT – The Anishinabek Nation and the Métis Nation of Ontario will re-new their traditional ties as Nations, as the sacred Pipes of both Nations are bound together by the Great Spirit. The 2005 Anishinabek Nation Unity Gathering and Grand Council Assembly will be the forum that will see both these Pipes brought together for the first time in many generations. Both Nations will also each bring their songs to the Drum. Last August, the Many Eagle Set Sundance Song was passed to the Métis Nation by Elder Francis Cree at Turtle Mountain, North Dakota. . . . The Buzz . . .

Political Office Calendar June 8 & 9: DGC Inter-Treaty Harvesting June 7 & 8: GCC First Ministers meeting Housing Working Group (Ottawa) June 9: GCC meeting with CMHC (Sudbury) CIBC supports lifetime achievers June 10: GCC meeting with Minister Ramsey (Ottawa) Bill Bray, a CIBC Account Manager from North Bay, presents Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief John June 13-16: GCC/DGC AOCC (Dryden) Beaucage with a cheque for $5000 that will go towards the Anishinabek Nation Lifetime Achievement Awards to June 17: FMM Housing Working Group (Ottawa) be handed out this June. “CIBC has been involved with the Anishinabek Seventh Generation Charities for a num- June 21: GCC Aboriginal Solidarity celebrations with ber of years from the Stay-in-School Program to the Achievement Awards,” Bray said. Wikwemikong First Nation June 21: DGC Aboriginal Solidarity celebrations Laurentian University June 22-23: GCC/DGC Chief Committee on Governance Stonefish new AIAI Grand Chief (Orillia) June 24: GCC/DGC – UOI Board of Directors meeting NIPISSING FN – Grand beat Chris McCormick 28-20. mutual alliances in health, (Kettle & Stoney Point) Council Chief John Beaucage sent Denise is the Chair of the resources, and intergovernmental June 25-29: GCC/DGC – Unity Gathering and Grand Council a message of congratulations to Chiefs of Ontario finance commit- affairs, and in ensuring our respec- Assembly Denise Stonefish after her election tee and the Chair of the Ontario tive agendas are strong at the Acronyms: DGC - Deputy Grand Chief as Grand Chief of the Association First Nations Women’s Council. Political Confederacy and at other GCC - Grand Council Chief of Iroquois and Allied Indians. She “We hope to continue our levels and forums,” Beaucage said. June 2005 Anishinabek News Page 19 In Brief Intergovernmental Affairs Program cancelled Sault College of Applied Arts and Technology has suspended the Aboriginal Resource Technician Program offered CHIEF’S CORNER through distance education. Launched in1989 with the part- Chief: James Wabigwan nership of the college, Human First Nation: Thessalon First Nation. This Resources Development community is located approximately 100 kms Canada, Indian and Northern east of Sault St. Marie on Highway 17. Affairs Canada and the Ontario Years of Service: He has been Chief for 3 1/2 Ministry of Natural Resources, years. Previous to being Chief he was the three-year program provided Councillor for 4 years. work placements, summer jobs Current Registered Members: 559 in firefighting, parks, lands, fish- Bio: Chief Wabigwan was born on January 7, eries, and administration, and the 1950 and comes from the Mukwa (Bear) clan. opportunity for First Nation par- Mississauga First Nation (MFN) Chief Larry Boyer spends a few minutes He is the father of 7 children and has 4 grand- with Ministry of Natural Resources conservation officer Dave Hamlin and ticipants to pursue a career with- children. His newest grandchild, Olivia, was James Wabigwan out leaving their home territories. trainee Travis Jacques. Jacques will be formally sworn in as a CO on born on May 7, 2005. June 20. Before becoming involved in politics, Chief Wabigwan worked in a Leadership mill in Sault St. Marie and various other jobs as a carpenter and labourer. “Indian leaders were chosen by Mississauga welcomes In Chief Wabigwan’s words he is a “jack of all trades, master of none” their deeds and the manner in When Chief Wabigwan lost his job at the mill he moved back to which they acted towards their Thessalon First Nation and decided to take a 1-month course that was people, their generosity and conservation officer being offered through the band at a high school in Debra. This 1-month their willingness to serve their class is what changed Chief Wabigwan’s life forever. Before this class he people above all else. They were By Rosalind Raby “Since 1999, the MNR – Sault was shy man and lacked confidence. This course was an entrepreneur- there to guide their people but A North Shore First Nation will Ste. Marie district, through its Blind ship-based course that involved lessons on how to open small business weren't here to rule the people. be welcoming a new conservation River office has been working close- and how to deal with people. Chief Wabigwan explained that after this Our people didn't understand the officer this month. ly with the MFN to train one of their class he gained confidence and a new world opened up to him. This is theory of dictatorship. Our peo- The Mississauga First Nation community members as a conserva- ple lived in harmony and as when he decided to get involved with politics. Prior to this class he would (MFN) has supported a partnership tion officer. Our band negotiated a have never guessed that he would be involved in politics and someday be equals. We were taught to have with the Ministry of Natural significant land claim in 1994, which respect for all things and be Chief. Resources – Blind River office, to resulted in a land base increase to In his spare time Chief Wabigwan enjoys taking walks in the bush respectful to all beings on this train a conservation officer (CO) for over 40,000 acres (92,842 hectares).” earth.” – Author Unknown and sitting by the lake. He also enjoys going on small road trips as it gives the band. “Our community is very pro- him time to think and to clear his head. It is not the first time they have active in the management of our Goals/Objectives for Community: To develop and implement a constitu- Our Staff done this, says MFN Chief Larry resources, and the conservation offi- tion for his community which would allow for the First Nation to have Boyer. cer training program was designed to strong fiscal and business management. He believes that this constitution Allan Dokis “We had our first CO come on increase Aboriginal Œshared’ is very important for Thessalon First Nation members, as it will ensure Director board just over three years ago,” responsibility for resource harvest, [email protected] that there is money for the future generations. Through these improved recalls Boyer. “Beverly Gauthier was management and enforcement.” management practices he would like to see enhanced employment oppor- Jason Laronde the first ever CO for our First Nation, Data collection on resource har- Resource Management Council tunities along with job security for the membership. He explains that, Coordinator and did a good job of it too.” vest, an action plan on common con- “We always need to think seven generations ahead.” [email protected] “However, she decided to seek servation issues and joint enforce- Political Ambition: Chief Wabigwan would like to continue on as Chief Alicia McLeod another position, this time as a police ment initiatives are integral to the of Thessalon First Nation. Treaty Research Assistant officer for our police service, so we program, adds MNR CO Dave Biggest Obstacle to Overcome: Chief Wabigwan believes the biggest [email protected] had to have someone else trained to Hamlin, who is also providing obstacle that he has encountered in his position, as Chief, is the need to Sandra Restoule fill the vacancy.” Jacques with hands-on training. separate politics from business and the administration of the band. He sees Treaty Research Clerk That person is Travis Jacques, 23, “We provide the training, hands- the importance in separating the two structures and he believes this can [email protected] who hails from MFN also. He is a on experience and equipment, while Nadine Roach only be done through good management practices and setting up sound graduate of W.C. Eaket Secondary the reserve takes care of his wages,” management structures. Forestry Coordinator School, and graduated from the explains Hamlin. “I’ve taken Travis [email protected] Robert Morriseau Police Foundations program out of through a spectrum of training, Forestry Technician North Bay in 2002. including work in the general field, [email protected] “This job is something I’ve been the use of force, firearms, the legal Yves Chenier thinking about since grade nine,” statutes that will govern his job, the Policy Analyst says Jacques. “It seems to be a bit academics and the field duties per- GENERAL NOTICE [email protected] more interesting than policing, and I taining to a CO position. Kerry Colnar really like the outdoors, so it is a nice “He is considered a deputy CO Process: Anishinabek Forest Strategy Operations Support Officer fit.” until he is formally sworn in as a full- Part I: REVIEW [email protected] “I’m looking forward to working fledged officer. A summary and review will be done on Goal: To create our own Vision/Forest as a CO, especially on my home “This approach also includes the key documents and studies pertaining to Strategy in Anishinabek Territory utiliz- forestry. reserve.” The training is a partnership ongoing development of laws and ing curret and past studies associated A summary report, along with focused with community forest developments. Website between the MNR and the First by-laws for the purpose of resource of the Month common statements will be created that To determine the long-term goals of Nation, adds Boyer. management on First Nation lands.” reflect the spirit and direction of our First Nations as it relates to forest members. management planning and forestry in These common statements will be used general. Canadian Aboriginal as our guidelines to validate what has Our intent is to facilitate a forum to History News been said and collected over the years in develop your own Foresty strategy. This site offers historical information along a series of workshops, These workshops will serve to with current and past news, facts and tidbits Part II: VALIDATION assist the UOI Forestry Unit in sup- it also allows you to make contributions of A summary of the findings will be circu- porting the development of local your own to the website. If you have inter- lated to our communities to deliver a first strategies. We are in the process of esting stories or news drop them a line. glance of the outcomes of the review. planning regional workshops to gain Notification of the workshop dates will be your insights. http://www.northernblue.ca/ablog posted for communities to participate. /index.php Part III: RESOLUTION Updates and info packages Summary of results with resolution will will be delivered as to be provided for council review and con- when and where the nearest Contact Us sideration. workshop will be hosted.

Union of Ontario Indians Environmental bursary Contact our office for more information. P.O. Box 711, Chief Patrick Madahbee (Aundeck Omni Kaning), left, and Chief Franklin North Bay, ON P1B 8J8 Paibomsai (Whitefish River), right, looked on as Ministry of Natural Union of Ontario Indians Toll Free: (877) 702-55200 Resources spokesman Bruce Richard presented Jonathan Haaland of Head Office - Nipissing First Nation, P.O. Box 711, North Bay, ON P1B 8J8 Phone: (705) 497-99127 Whitefish River First Nation with a $1000 bursary to pursue environmen- Fax: (705) 497-99135 tal studies. Jonathon is enrolled in an environmental program at Contact Nadine Roach Fanshawe College in London and plans to return to Northern Ontario after Phone: (705) 497-9127 Fax: (705) 497-9135 E-mmail: [email protected] Toll Free: (877) 702-5200 Email: [email protected] Website: www.anishinabek.ca/iga completing college. His studies will continue throughout the summer, focusing on water and soil sampling. – Photo courtesy MNR Page 20 Anishinabek News June 2005

FORT WIL Economic diversity priority for new council By Rick Garrick ager of Anemki Mountain Corporation, a band-owned Bay, has been taking a “practical and forward-looking FORT WILLIAM FN – Fort William First Nation is a entity which manages the Anemki Mountain office com- approach” in its negotiations over lands, including the growing community, both in terms of economic develop- plex. Neebing Surrender in 1859, the Railway Taking in 1905, ment and population. “Over the past few years, there has been a lot of eco- the Rifle Range in 1905, the Mining Claims in 1909, “Fort William First Nation is moving towards more nomic development in our community.” Chippewa Park in 1917, and the Ontario Hydro Right-of- economic diversity,” says Ian Bannon, one of the six new Anemki Mountain Corporation built the Anemki Way in the 1950’s, which were taken from the original band councillors elected in mid-April and general man- Mountain office building next to the band office in the reserve lands as surveyed in 1853. The community plans early 1990’s, and it now houses a variety of tenants, to use any compensation it receives for the lands under its including Indian and Native Affairs Canada’s Thunder Specific Claims process for economic development pur- Bay office and a variety of Native organizations. poses, and is not looking to displace innocent third par- “Since then we’ve constructed two more office build- ties, because “Fort William First Nation believes strongly ings, a community centre and the (two arenas),” Bannon that two wrongs do not make a right.” says, noting that the second arena was built this past year. Gail Bannon explains that the Neebing Surrender Another recent development was the construction of lands were given away by the government for almost no the Bowater Sawmill in the community’s industrial park, cost to the new settlers in the area. which was developed on part of the Railway Taking lands “It was good farming land,” she says. “The land along that were recently returned to the band after almost a cen- the Kaministiquia (River) is some of the best land in tury of use by the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway and the Canada.” Canadian National Railway. The Neebing Surrender and Railway Taking took all whe “This is the land we bought in 1996 for $10,” says of the band’s land along the Kaministiquia River and socc Gail Bannon, lands manager at Fort William. “We own it, Chippewa Park took most of the band’s remaining good poin but it’s still classified as city property.” waterfront land along Lake Superior. T Because it is still classified as city property, the city is “You know, for community members back in that Cul currently sending tax bills for the land to the band. time, water was an important resource,” she notes. “They ope “Until that ... land is converted to Crown land, there is took away most of the valuable waterfront property.” “ a tax issue,” says Ian Bannon. “Fort William (First “Fort William (First Nation) at that time was very Cra Nation) is still in the process of negotiating that on the prosperous – logging, farming, raising cattle. Now there’s teac Ian Bannon at the Dilico Child and Family Services office, one basis that the land should never have lost its status as only rock and swamp left – what are you going to do.” thro of four new Fort William First Nation-owned office buildings in reserve land.” Gail Bannon explains that a settlement agreement has den the shadow of Mount McKay. Fort William, located on the southern edge of Thunder been worked out for the Rifle Range lands, and the com- Lak munity will likely hold a vote on the agreement this fall. leav During the Chief and Council election, held in April dipl with over 90 candidates vying for positions as chief or A councillor, Chief Peter Collins was re-elected to his fifth KiH term with 181 votes, edging out Harold Pelletier by 25 in th votes. Guy Collins, Arlene Solomon, Phillip Pelletier, “ Lyle Charlie, Tim Ward, and Michael Pelletier were re- year elected as band councillors while Ian Bannon, Leo T Bannon Sr., Valerie Chapman, Jeffery Charlie, Roy prog Charlie, and Yvette Greenwald were newly elected as “ band councillors. nity About 1200 of the community’s 1750-plus band mem- noti bers were eligible to vote – 660 eligible voters live off- Emp reserve, half of them in Thunder Bay. Some 45 per cent of O the band membership, which grew by 180 since 2001, nity currently lives on-reserve. in T Chief Collins said after the election that his first pri- L ority would be to resolve the $3.8-million tax dispute the exp band has with the City of Thunder Bay over the Railway heal Taking lands in a mutually satisfactory manner. Elde Collins is also looking to develop a commercial water izin supply or hydro-electric plant from the Loch Lomond prog waters, which are located on the opposite side of the com- prog munity from Thunder Bay, to build 30 new homes in the and community, to deal with prescription drug addictions, and “ to develop a trades school for youth in the community. listi KiHS teacher Craig Hardy and some of his students outside the Fort William First Nation Community Centre. The trades school would be located near the Arena, Picn

“. . . this is our territory and we assert sovereignty on these lands June 2005 Anishinabek News Page 21

WILLIAM FIRST NATION l king the 905, 909, -of- inal lans r its pur- par- Anamikiewakchu – Ojibwe for “Thunder Mountain” – is one of ngly the world’s oldest topographical features, dating back 500 mil- lion years. A sacred place for Anishinabek – who believe it is nder the home of the Thunderbirds – the 1600-foot plateau of Mount t no McKay provides a striking view of Lake Superior and the Sleeping Giant formation offshore, and the city of Thunder Bay. ong A road leading up the mountain passes through Fort Willam d in Samantha Thibert, a Grade 11 student at the KiHS Education Centre in Fort William First Nation, works on her mould experiment First Nation, which is staging National Aboriginal Day celebra- on one of the centre’s computers. tions June 21, and a three-day pow-wow in July. k all where a Community Centre has already been built and a Fair, a Family Walk, the annual Mount McKay Pow- as Pelletier’s Auto Body or Bill MacLaurin Contracting. and soccer complex and race track are also planned for some Wow, and twice-a-year bazaars. A group of eight youth in the community have also ood point in the future. In addition to working in the community’s office recently established the Eagle Mountain Youth Council. The Community Centre currently contains an Elders’ buildings, band members are also employed in commer- “They just started,” says Ian Bannon, adding that they that Cultural Centre and a KiHS Education Centre, which cial fishing, in the gas bar and restaurant business, in the are well organized. “In our last council meeting, the youth hey opened in February, 2004. Bowater sawmill, or in privately owned businesses such council received high regard and recognition.” “We run two alternative studies programs here,” says very Craig Hardy, alternative education coordinator and KiHS re’s teacher, noting that Grade 9 and 10 students take courses .” through KiHS over the Internet and Grade 11 and 12 stu- Anishinabek reclaim Lakehead has dents take distance education courses through the om- Lakehead Public School Board. “They don’t have to THUNDER BAY – “We must begin to re-assert most recent challenges within his territory. fall. leave the community anymore to earn a secondary school the sovereignty within our traditional territory,” “We have been constantly at odds with the gov- Grand Council Chief John Beaucage, flanked by ernment over this territory, the latest being a sig- April diploma.” Fort William Chief Peter Collins and the twelve nificant municipal tax assessment,” said Collins, f or About 15 to 20 students are currently enrolled in First Nation Chiefs of the Northern Superior referring to industrial land that belongs to the Fort fifth KiHS and about 30 to 40 students are currently enrolled region told a special news conference William First Nation that was recent- y 25 in the distance education program. May 31. ly assessed taxes. “We are here to tier, “We’re looking to graduate about 15 students this These First Nations came together make it clear that this is our territory re- year,” Hardy says. to deliver a strong message to the and we assert sovereignty on these Leo The Education Centre also offers some post-secondary Canada and Canadians in “reclaim- lands that we occupy and have Roy programs through Confederation College. ing” the area known as the Lakehead always occupied.” d as “Our focus is to offer and extend services to commu- Territory. This traditional territory There was also a strong message nity members towards skill development,” Hardy adds, includes the greater Thunder Bay area, for the various brother and sister em- noting they also offer employment services through YES which is part of the Robinson Superior organizations that occupy offices, Treaty territory. land and undertake development in off- Employment. “This isn’t about land claims, or the Lakehead territory. nt of Other than the Education Centre, most of the commu- compensation or economics,” said “Other First Nations organiza- 001, nity’s students attend elementary and secondary schools Grand Council Chief Beaucage. “This tions have mistakenly settled or in Thunder Bay. is simply about respect and awareness asserted authority in the Thunder pri- Luanne Maki, the Community Health representative, of the true aboriginal title of this Chief Peter Collins Bay area,” said Grand Council Chief the explains that the Health Centre, in addition to providing sacred place.” Beaucage. “It is custom that First way health and family support services, provides a monthly There continue to be significant Nations respect each others’ territo- Elders program “to get them out of the house and social- developments that affect the Northern Superior ry, and ask for permission to make use of these ater izing with each other,” a monthly Moms, Dads and Babes traditional territory, including the development of lands. In this case, the territory of the Northern ond program for newborns to age four, a weekly children’s a Lake Superior Marine Conservation Area, Superior Chiefs.” om- program for ages five to nine at the Community Centre, removal of First Nations harvesting cabins, chal- The Robinson Superior Treaty of 1850 ceded lenges to the Lake Nipigon fishery, and continued lands “from Batchewana Bay to Pigeon River, at the and a community kitchen for youth aged 10 to 15. with forestry allocations with little or no sustained the western extremity of said Lake, and inland and “We also have special community events,” Maki adds, benefit to First Nations. throughout that extent to the height of land.” This y. listing a four-week summer day camp, an annual Family “We are putting government, industry, and is traditional territory of the Anishinabek Nation, ena, Picnic, a Christmas Party, a Halloween Party, a Health stakeholders on notice that steps will be taken to and includes the Lakehead territory surrounding ensure our rights and aboriginal title to this terri- Mount McKay. tory are protected,” said Grand Council Chief “In our language, this is called Thunderbird Beaucage. Mountain, and is said to be the spiritual nesting Regional Grand Chief Peter Collins, who is also place of the Thunderbirds. This is a very sacred ands,” – Chief Peter Collins Chief of Fort William First Nation, talked about his place,” said Grand Council Chief John Beaucage. Page 22 Anishinabek News June 2005 Restoration of Jurisdiction Anishinabek education system takes shape By ROJ Staff success rates and more opportu- The Education Working nity. The logo speaks to the high- Groups will be conducting a est importance that Anishinabek consultation strategy to get feed- First Nation citizens have placed back on the proposed on language and cultural identi- Anishinabek Education System ty. that they have developed. June The 28 Participating First 14 to 16 the working group Nations that have signed the members will attend meeting to Education Agreement-in- finalize the work to date and pre- Principle are shown in bold. The pare for a community-by-com- remaining 15 First Nations are munity, in-depth consultation on also shown for two reasons: first, the governing structure and the agreement is open at any operations of the Anishnabek time for other First Nations to Education System. The commu- sign on. Even after a Final nity sessions will most likely be Agreement has been signed, 1-day interactive workshops led more First Nations could be by the working group members added, providing there is a com- themselves. The sessions will munity ratification process and run from October to December the existing Parties to the Final in all regions, including urban Agreement agree that a new centers. A symposium to present Party can be added. Second, the final draft model based on relationships may be established community members input will between Participating First be held in March 2006. Nations operating under the edu- The graphic illustrates the cation self-government agree- Kinomaadswin Education Body illustration Anishinabek Education System ment and other First Nations that has been developed by the operating under the Indian Act Education Working Groups. The regime with respect to education Councils will be established by responsible for the administra- services for the Participating logo is meant to capture the programs and services. the Participating First Nations. tion and distribution of educa- First Nations; belief that education is a parental The Education Working Each Participating First tion funding transferred from z Anishinabek and community responsibility. Groups are proposing that each Nation will need to develop and Canada to the Participating First Curriculum Centre that will The system is child-centred and First Nation establish a Local approve the laws and/or written Nations under the Fiscal establish education standards so the Anishinabe family is cen- Education Authority. The Local agreements that will establish Transfer Agreement. and develop curriculum respon- tral to the system. The Bear and Education Authorities from a the Local Education Authority Other functions that the sive to the Participating First the Eagle are representative of geographic area will form a and the Regional School Council Education Working Groups pro- Nations’ needs; an Anishinabe way of being. Regional School Council, which to which that First Nation will pose be nation-level services are: Centre for Anishinabek The main purpose of restor- is illustrated by a Bear Paw. belong. z Anishinabemowin Assessment that will develop ing jurisdiction over education is Seven Regional School Councils In addition to these bodies, Institute that will establish stan- and implement assessment to provide a better education are being proposed. The powers, the Anishinabek Education dards and teaching aids/tools to mechanisms to measure and experience for Anishinabe chil- duties, functions and responsi- System will consist of a central support the preservation, promo- chart the progress and proficien- dren. It is known that this will bilities of the Local Education or nation-level Kinomaadswin tion and development of lan- cies of students in the translate into higher education Authorities and Regional School Education Body that will be guage and cultural programs and Anishinabek Education System. Information sessions: your access to the negotiators By Michael Eshkawkogan Nation Negotiator attends the meetings as an Community Facilitator observer. As often as possible, information sessions are Q. How much funding will we get to develop put on by Community Facilitators during the the Anishinabek Education System? evening of a negotiation session so that communi- A. The Finance Working Group is presently ty members can take advantage of speaking direct- working on the cost of the proposed system, includ- ly to the negotiators. This is why the negotiations ing the Kinomaadswin Education Body (KEB) and are held in the First Nation communities them- how the funding will flow to First Nation commu- selves, including urban First Nation community nities. centers. Q. Some of the First Nations in the past have I had the opportunity to facilitate an informa- been trying to get recognition for our own Child & tion session the evening of May 5th at the Family Welfare licenses since 1997. The provincial Wikwemikong Long Term Care Building. In atten- government pulled the plug. Will the Education Final dance from Wikwemikong were Rolanda Agreement negotiations process be pulled by the Manitowabi, Councillor/Portfolio for Education; provincial government? Henry Lewis, Wasse-Abin High School Principal; Michael Eshkawkogan, Henry Lewis, A/Education Director; Edward Fox, Community Facilitator; Merle Pegahmagabow, Anishinabek Head A. No, we don't work with the Provincial Education Finance Manager; and Dorothy Fox, Negotiator; Bernadette Marasco, Administrative Assistant (Education Government at this time. Ontario will not veto the Pontiac School Counselor. Negotiations); Edward Fox, Education Finance Manager; Dorothy Fox, Agreement. Merle Pegahmagabow, Anishinabek Head Pontiac School Counselor; and Rolanda Manitowabi, Q. We are losing language in the community. Negotiator for Education, and Sheila Murray, Councillor/Education Portfolio at the information session in How is the Anishinabe Language and Culture going Chief Federal Negotiator, gave an overview of the Wikwemikong, May 5th. to be maintained in the school system? Education Final Agreement and an update on A. The Education Working Group is presently where the process is at today. Merle informed the Q. How much longer will it take to finish the Education Final working on Anishinaabemowin and culture insti- group that it is very important that we get commu- Agreement negotiations? tutes to support the Participating First Nations in nity members involved with the Restoration of A. It will take approximately 10 months to finish the developing programs for language and culture in Jurisdiction process, the Education Final Education Final Agreement Text. their communities. Agreement, the development of the Anishinabek Q. Is the Ontario Government involved with the ROJ Information sessions are an ideal way to get your Education System. Education Final Agreement process? questions answered. Contact your community facili- The community members were given the A. No, we do have meetings with the Ministry of Education tator about the next information session in your com- opportunity to ask questions. and Ontario Native Affairs Secretariat (ONAS). The Anishinabek munity. June 2005 Anishinabek News Page 23 Restoration of Jurisdiction ROJ Briefs Ten months to ratification time By ROJ Staff Chiefs Committee bringing leaders together A joint Anishinabek-Canada At their meeting held in Niagara Falls on April 13 and 14, meeting of both education and 2005, the Anishinaabe Anokiiwin Aanokiitoojig (Chiefs governance tables was held on Committee on Governance) directed the ROJ staff to May 4th in Wikwemikong arrange for a conference of all Chiefs and Councils of the Unceded Indian Reserve. There Anishinabek Nation to be held in the fall of 2005. This con- was preliminary discussion ference is intended to permit the citizens of the Anishinabek around the issue of membership First Nations, through their Chiefs and Councils, the oppor- and what it means in relation to tunity to present their ideas on the conditions upon which the funding issues. Further discus- self-government negotiations with Canada should proceed. sion will be held at the next joint The Chiefs Committee wants First Nation leaders to deter- meeting planned for mid- mine if the current self-government negotiations with August. Canada will address the concerns and aspirations of the The joint meetings are held Anishinabek people. at least quarterly to coordinate The 2005 conference follows the all Chiefs and Councils the two negotiation tables since Gathering held last September where Anishinabek leaders many definitions and legal heard from the Navajo and M'iqmak Nations on the chal- issues overlap. lenges and successes of self-government and reviewed the Also, the joint meetings draft agreements on governance and education now under allow all negotiators to be updated on the activities in the negotiation with Canada. Education negotiators dropped in at the Career Fair at Wasse-Abin High Restoration of Jurisdiction School in Wikwemikong on May 5th. Shown are Bernadette Marasco, Negotiators getting set to initial AIP department that support both Anishinabek Administrative Assistant, and Sheila Murray, Chief Federal agreements: for example, Negotiator. Anishinabek Nation Chief Negotiator on Governance, R. Capacity Development, Martin Bayer, and Chief Federal Negotiator Liz Morin are Constitution Development, and June 2nd. ratification or approval of the making plans for a tentative initialing of the Governance Fiscal Relations research proj- At the May 5th education Final Agreement, including the Agreement-in- Principle at the up-coming Grand Council ects, such as the newly complet- negotiation session in Implementation Plan and Fiscal Assembly in Kettle and Stony Point, June 28 and 29. Morin ed student enrollment projec- Wikwemikong, Glen Brennan, Transfer Agreement will likely notified Bayer at the recent joint Canada-Anishinabek meet- tions that will assist negotiation Assistant Federal Negotiator, begin. ing of education and governance negotiators held in of the education Fiscal Transfer reviewed with the main table Prior to ratification of the Wikwemikong that she has received internal approval to ini- Agreement. the following reports: Education Final Agreement tial-off on the draft AIP. An initialing ceremony signals that The outstanding parts of the Elementary/Secondary each Participating First Nation the negotiators have completed their work and the fate of the main document, the draft Final Education National Program will need to ratify a constitution agreement now rests with the respective Parties – the Agreement with respect to the Guidelines, Post-Secondary that describes such things as the Anishinabek First Nations and the federal Cabinet. Exercise of Jurisdiction over Education National Program First Nation’s law-making Education are “Enforcement Guidelines and DIAND Service process, the First Nation’s juris- Bayer secures six BCRs for Governance AIP and Adjudication,” Codes Descriptions – dictions and authorities, the pro- Dokis First Nation and Sagamok Anishnawbek are the “Anishinabek Education Education. These are Treasury cedures for enforcing laws, the latest to sign Band Council Resolutions (BCRs) supporting System,” and “Additional Board guidelines on how procedures for appealing laws the Governance Agreement-in-Principle and supporting con- Parties.” Further discussion on DIAND delivers education to and administrative decisions of tinuing negotiations toward a Final Agreement. The two “Life Long Learning” is also students on reserve. The service the First Nation and their Lake Huron Region communities join Nipissing, taking place. Work continues on codes explain what activities are administrative bodies, and an Sheshegwaning, Long Lake #58 and Serpent River, for a total the Fiscal Transfer Agreement provided under each code and amending formula, among other of six First Nations prepared to sign onto the AIP. If the num- and the Implementation Plan. they are revised every 5 years. things. The Education bers follow the Education AIP approval process, Bayer will The draft Fiscal Transfer The Education Final Agreement requires that First need 22 BCRs before Indian Affairs will send the agreement Agreement has been reviewed Agreement is tentatively sched- Nations have constitutions and to Cabinet for Canada's approval. An AIP is not legally bind- by legal counsel and a new draft uled for completion by the end sets out what, at a minimum, ing, only a Final Agreement ratified by a community refer- will be tabled at the education of the this fiscal year, March should be in a First Nation con- endum is legally binding. negotiations in Alderville on 2006, at which time First Nation stitution. New staff to the Restoration of Jurisdiction team Ahneesh nah, niijkenhuk Hello, my name is Jason Restoule and I am a mem- My name is Esther Gilbank, and I am a member ber of Dokis First Nation. I am the new Community of Nipissing First Nation. I am pleased to be the Facilitator Support Worker in the Restoration of new Chiefs Committee on Governance Coordinator Jurisdiction (ROJ) department at the Union of Ontario with the Restoration of Jurisdiction (ROJ) depart- Indians (UOI) head office in North Bay, ON. ment. For the past 20 months I have been working at the Formerly, I was the Community Facilitator UOI as the Distance Delivery Program Assistant for Support Worker where I provided support for the the Anishinabek Educational Institute. Previous to that Community Facilitator staff and ROJ I had been employed by the UOI in various depart- Communications department. ments as a summer student. I am a graduate of the With the experience and expertise I have gained Business Administration Degree program at Nipissing in coordinating events and meetings, preparing University as well as the Marketing Management reports and taking minutes, I feel confident that I am Diploma program at Kwantlen University College in up to the challenge of assisting the Chiefs in their British Columbia. important work. I am eager to start the work of this I am very excited about my new role in the organi- Esther Gilbank Jason Restoule important role and invite the members of the Chiefs zation and I am looking forward to working in the ROJ Committee on Governance to contact me if you feel there is anything I can do to department and supporting our Community Facilitators. I can be reached by telephone assist you on the Committee. at (705) 497-9127, by fax at (705) 497-9135, or by email at [email protected]. Page 24 Anishinabek News June 2005

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