Connecting to your Métis Community MNO resources and research to assist in making an application for MNO citizenship Pages 14-15

Issue no. 99, March 2018

Members of the Provisional Council of the Métis Nation of (PCMNO), other signatories and guests following the signing of the MNO/Canada/Ontario Framework Agreement for Advancing Reconciliation. Full list of names on page 5.

MNO SIGNS TWO HISTORIC AGREEMENTS ADVANCING RECONCILIATION n December 11, 2017, the people.” substantive issues such Métis Métis Nation of Ontario The other was the MNO-Canada Agree- self-government, rights and out- (MNO) signed two historic ment on Advancing Reconciliation with the standing claims. The MNO-Canada agreements that serve to Northwestern Ontario Métis Community, Agreement on Advancing Recon- advance rights, self-govern- which details that the parties will seek to ciliation with the Northwest- Oment and reconciliation for the Métis in advance reconciliation with a “view to set- ern Ontario Métis Community Ontario. tling any outstanding claims of the North- demonstrates the respect that One was the MNO-Canada-Ontario western Ontario Métis Community, includ- exists for the diverse needs Framework Agreement for Advancing ing any Métis collective claims relating to the and claims of Métis communi- Reconciliation, which is intended to estab- Treaty 3 Adhesion of 1875.” ties throughout Ontario and sets lish a process to begin negotiations towards The MNO has consistently pressured the stage for dealing with future shared solutions advancing reconciliation, other governments to engage in negotiations claims and interests. and the enhancement of the well-being of to deal with the rights, interests and aspi- MNO will be engaging its com- Métis Nation of Ontario citizens. It speci- rations of Métis within Ontario and these munities and citizens to provide fies that “Canada and Ontario are commit- agreements signify a huge step forward in further updates and to dis- ted to meeting their constitutional obliga- the path to self-government. cuss areas of priority that will tions towards the Métis through recognizing The MNO-Canada-Ontario Framework enhance the well-being of MNO and respecting the section 35 rights of Métis Agreement for Advancing Reconciliation sets families and communities for gen- Full stories inside on communities as a means of advancing rec- out a process to begin formal negotiations erations to come. onciliation between the Crown and Métis on matters of mutual priority, including pages 4 and 5 ...

Historic Métis Youth Métis veteran Alex agreement for Council fundraiser Boucher celebrates Northwestern beading kits 105th birthday Ontario Métis Page 6 Page 10 Page 4 40025265 Métis Voyageur 2 March 2018, Issue no. 99

The Métis MESSAGE Voyageur FROM THE March 2018 - No. 99

Produced by the Métis Nation of Ontario Communications Branch: PRESIDENT MARGARET FROH Julie Cruikshank Mike Fedyk Jacob May arlier this year, I Melissa Murray had the pleasure Marc St. Germain of attending the Contributors: 105th birthday party Lynn Bélair Lauren Burey of Métis WWII Cam Burgess Veteran, Alex Boucher. I am Danielle Callander E Catherine Corbett very fortunate to have the Jackie Courville opportunity to take part in Michel Dupuis Raymond Engelsman community and family events Larry J. Ferris like Alex’s birthday. It was Greg Garratt Reta Gordon a great honour for me to be Louise Goulding there with Alex’s family and Donna Grayer David Hamilton friends, Regional Councillor Ryah Heavens Pauline Richardson and other Nina Henley Doug Hull leaders from the region, as well Jennifer Jensen as his colleagues in the MNO Stephanie Kehoe Tracy Kerr Veterans’ Council to recognize Diane Kilby this amazing milestone. (See Grant Lecky story about Alex’s birthday on Christa Lemin MNO President Margaret Froh (right) joins Métis Veteran Alex Boucher (left) to Christy Lewin page 10). celebrate the occasion of his 105th birthday. Glen Lipinski Alastair MacKay Mary-Kelly McCormick Richard Meilleur MÉTIS COMMUNITIES AND FAMILIES of our Métis community. Lloyd Thomson, two major agreements to advance reconcili- Leslie-Anne Muma Emily Quick, Bob McKay, Robert Gelinas and ation. These were the MNO/Canada/Ontario Jennifer Parkinson I wish I could attend every Métis commu- Gordon Calder each provided some of the Framework Agreement for Advancing Reconcilia- Joseph Poitras nity and family event in Ontario but as read- bedrock that the MNO was built on and they tion (see page 5) and the MNO/Canada Agree- Pauline Richardson ers of this edition of the Métis Voyageur can will each be missed but also remembered for ment on Advancing Reconciliation with the North- Paul Robitaille clearly see – that would be challenging for any all they did for their families and their Métis western Ontario Métis Community (see page 4). Sarah Sharp Theresa Stenlund one person to do. As always the community, community. These agreements mark another critical step Ralph Wolf Thistle stories and family sections of this paper are We are also saddened by the passing of forward for Métis rights recognition and Métis Luke Thompson full of amazing stories and treasured moments. Jorja Gorham and Ken Trudeau whose jour- self-government. We look forward to sharing Tom Thompson Whether it is teaching beading to students and neys could have gone on much longer. Our additional details about these agreements and Mattingly Turgeon teachers, raising the Métis Nation flag on Louis thoughts and sympathy goes out to their fami- getting out into the community to provide Jim Turner Riel Day, honouring Métis women as part of lies (see page 25-27 for obituaries). more information and seek additional input Métis culture, recognizing our veterans, recog- about how we move forward. Submissions: All submissions should be directed nizing youth for their dedication or the many CONNECTING TO YOUR MÉTIS to: other activities highlighted in the Community COMMUNITY IT IS ALL FOR OUR FAMILIES AND Mike Fedyk section of the paper (see pages 12-18) so many COMMUNITIES Director of Communcations of our citizens as well as our dedicated public This Voyageur also includes birth announce- Métis Nation of Ontario service are working hard to engage both MNO ments (see page 27), marking the next genera- The MNO has achieved many successes over Suite 1100 – 66 Slater Street citizens and mainstream society about Métis tion of Métis Citizens. Included in this edition the last 25 years because of its citizens and , ON K1P 5H1 [email protected] culture and history.. is an overview of the work that has been done communities and the stories that appear in the on the Métis Root Ancestors and a reminder pages of the Voyageur are all about those con- MNO YOUTH COUNCIL BEADING about the resources available to assist with the tributions. The work that is done at a commu- Publication #: PM40025265 KITS AND GRASSROOTS GRANTS MNO Citizenship Application process (see nity, regional and provincial level is all about page 14-15). This section also provides an advancing the rights, recognition and interests As many of you already now during this update on the Registry and Self-Government of Métis in Ontario. We can never lose sight of RECENTLY MOVED OR year’s Annual General Assembly in Kenora the Readiness Process (RSRP) and the development the fact that as elected leaders for the MNO MOVING SOON? Don’t forget to change your MNO Youth Council announced they were and design of the new MNO citizenship card. we are entrusted with great responsibility to address with the Registry so starting to sell Beading Kits that they were protect those rights for our future generations. that you will continue to receive putting together themselves. Sales of these kits MÉTIS SUCCESS STORIES This work is all about our families and com- your newspaper and up-to-date have been so successful that they have had the munities and every event and activity that we information from the MNO. revenue to launch their Grassroots Grants pro- While, as always, we are all proud of the are so fortunate to participate in reminds us gram. These grants are available to communi- achievements of the past, this issue of the what is truly great about the Métis Nation of Call 1-855-798-1006 ext. 2 ties who are engaging and empowering Métis Voyageur provides us with examples of mod- Ontario. or send an email to registryclerk@Métisnation.org youth and/or celebrating Métis arts, language ern Métis we can all be proud of. This issue we and culture. These youth continue to demon- have artists like Maurice Cadeiux, Kristy Cam- Marsee, strate their impressive entrepreneurial spirit in eron and Sharon Girdwood as well as inter- SUBMISSION POLICY: true Métis fashion (see full story on page 6). nationally recognized security expert Bonnie The Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Butlin and broadcaster Larry O’Connor. encourages contributions from MNO citizens and staff. All submissions are PASSING OF MÉTIS ELDERS AND edited to conform to the Canadian THOSE WHO LEFT US TOO SOON A PATH FORWARD TO Press Style Guide as well as for gram- RECONCILIATION mar, repetitiousness, spelling and to This issue also has a bittersweet element as Margaret Froh accurately reflect the official names we recognize the passing of so many members On December 11, 2017, the MNO signed president, métis nation of ontario and titles of individuals, organizations, bodies and agencies referenced in submissions. The MNO does not accept submis- sions including editorials and letters to the editor that make partisan political statements. Métis Voyageur With the exception of letters to the editor and submissions to the family Upcoming Submission Deadlines: section, all submissions should NOT be written in the first person. NEXT ISSUE: March 16, 2018 The recommended length for a sub- May 18, 2018 • September 7, 2018 • November 2, 2018 • mission is between 400 and 600 words. Submissions longer than that may be January 18, 2019 • March 15, 2019 edited for length. Métis Voyageur March 2018, Issue no. 99 3 NATION MNO signs Memorandum of Understanding with Treasury Metals by MNO Staff

n December 11, 2017, Treasury Metals signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) in Orelation to the company’s Goliath Gold Project, east of Dryden in northwestern Ontario.

The MOU is considered a frame- traditional territory for our physi- work cooperation agreement with cal and spiritual well-being . . . The the MNO, including the MNO agreement signing today is very Atikokan and Area, Kenora, North- important to the Métis people for west and Sunset Country Métis the protection of our Métis rights Councils, which represent the and interests and our way-of-life in regional rights-bearing Métis com- the Dryden area as well as the region munities in the Treaty 3 area. That more generally . . . This agreement area takes in the Métis traditional recognizes the unique and distinct territories of Lake of the Woods, Lac needs of the Métis people.” Signatories of the MNO/Treasury Metals MOU: (Front row, left to right) MNO President Margaret Froh, Seul, Rainy River and Rainy Lake. In her remarks, MNO President Treasury Metals President and CEO Chris Stewart, Provisional Council of the Métis Nation of Ontario The MOU provides the Métis Margaret Froh praised the Regional Region 1 Councilor Theresa Stenlund. (Back row, left to right) MNO Sunset Country Métis Council community with an opportunity to Consultation Committee for its President Brady Hupet, MNO Kenora Métis Council President Joel Henley, MNO Atikokan and Area participate in the project through hard work in making the agree- Métis Council President Marlene Davidson and MNO Northwest Métis Council President Ron Robinson. employment, training, business ment a reality and commented on development and ongoing consul- the strength of the local Métis com- tation involving the mining project. munities in northwestern Ontario. with all of our stakeholders and in helping us create a socially east of Dryden. In her remarks at the signing, “This is about creating opportunity Indigenous communities as we responsible project that will benefit The company is working on a Provisional Council of the Métis and it is about creating wealth for work towards bringing the Goli- the communities, the project and all feasibility study for Goliath while Nation of Ontario (PCMNO) Region the region in a way that respects ath Gold Project into production,” stakeholders as we move forward,” undertaking a 30,000-metre drill- 1 Councilor and Chair of the MNO Métis rights,” she said. “I look for- said Treasury Metals President and he added. ing program. Treasury’s schedule Region 1 Consultation Committee ward to hearing all about the pros- CEO Chris Stewart. “We are looking Treasury Metals’ cornerstone shows mine construction beginning Theresa Stenlund explained: “The perity as we move forward,” she forward to working with the Métis development is the Goliath Gold in 2019 with gold production start- Métis community depends on the concluded. community. Their experience and Project, a future open-pit and under- ing a year later. lands, waters and resources of our “Our objective is to work together local knowledge will be invaluable ground gold mine, 20 kilometres

THE MNO HEAD OFFICE IN OTTAWA IS MOVING

As of April 16, 2018, the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) head office in Ottawa is moving. The new address of the MNO head office will be:

Métis Nation of Ontario Suite 1100 – 66 Slater Street Ottawa, ON K1P 5H1

Phone and fax numbers will remain the same: Phone: 613-798-1488 Toll free: 1-800-263-4889 Fax: 613-722-4225 Métis Voyageur 4 March 2018, Issue no. 99 ADVANCING RECONCILIATION

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MNO, Canada and Ontario sign Framework 2 Agreement for Advancing Reconciliation by MNO Staff

n 2017, the Métis Nation This agreement sets out a new path forward of Ontario (MNO) made where Métis self-government, rights and considerable progress in 3 4 its efforts to advance the outstanding claims can be addressed through Métis rights agenda and negotiations – not just through the courts. 1) (Left to right) Region 1 PCMNO Councilor Cam Burgess, PCMNO reconciliation. This is an exciting day for our citizens and Postsecondary Representative Katelyn LaCroix and MNO Secretary- On February 3, Canada and the Treasurer Tim Pile sign the Framework Agreement. 2) (Left to right) MNOI signed a Memorandum of Métis communities here in Ontario. Region 7 PCMNO Councilor Pauline Richardson takes a selfie with Understanding on Advancing Rec- Minister Bennett and MNO Vice-Chair Sharon Cadeau. 3) Region 3 Margaret Froh, MNO President onciliation. This set the stage for PCMNO Councilor Marcel Lafrance hugs Minister Bennett. 4) MNO exploratory discussions that identi- Chair France Picotte speaking during the signing ceremony. fied a mutually acceptable path to for the Métis Nation of Ontario. This reconciliation and enhance the well- advance reconciliation between the agreement sets out a new path for- being of MNO citizens. The results Crown and Métis in Ontario as rep- ward where Métis self-government, of the MNO Commission on Métis resented by the MNO, in which the rights and outstanding claims can be Rights and Self-Government will Government of Ontario was invited addressed through negotiations— assist in informing discussions. On the cover to participate. These discussions led not just through the courts. This MNO will be engaging communi- to the signing on December 11 of is truly an exciting day for our citi- ties and citizens to provide further the MNO/Canada/Ontario Frame- zens and Métis communities here in updates on the Framework Agree- work Agreement for Advancing Ontario,” said MNO President Mar- ment and identify areas of priority Reconciliation. garet Froh. that will enhance the well-being of The Framework Agreement was In the new Framework Agree- MNO families and communities for signed in the Centre Block of Par- ment, the MNO and the Govern- generations to come. liament in Ottawa with almost all ments of Canada and Ontario are “The signing of today’s tripartite members of the Provisional Coun- committed to working together to Framework Agreement is an excit- cil of the Métis Nation of Ontario foster reconciliation and build stron- ing step in advancing reconciliation (PCMNO) participating along with ger relationships through a co-opera- with the Métis Nation of Ontario. leaders for several community coun- tive and respectful dialogue. Ontario looks forward to building an (Front row, left to right) MNO Chair France Picotte, Parliamentary cils. Among the many leaders and “Today we are taking a key step even stronger relationship with the Assistant to the Ontario Minister of Indigenous Relations and officials with the Governments of forward, along with the Ontario Métis Nation of Ontario and work- Reconciliation Sophie Kiwala, MNO President Margaret Froh, Minister Canada and Ontario in attendance government, in our shared journey ing together with the federal govern- of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Dr. Carolyn were Crown-Indigenous and Recon- toward reconciliation with the Métis ment,” said Parliamentary Assistant Bennett and PCMNO Region 9 Councilor Peter Rivers. (Back row, left ciliation Minister Dr. Carolyn Ben- Nation of Ontario. We are setting the Kiwala. to right) Senator Ray Bergie, Postsecondary Representative Katelyn nett and Parliamentary Assistant to stage to renew the government-to- The Framework Agreement will LaCroix, Senator Rene Gravelle, PCMNO Region 1 Councilor Theresa the Ontario Minister of Indigenous government relationship through establish a process for discussions Stenlund, PCMNO Region 6 Councilor Tom Thompson, PCMNO Relations and Reconciliation Sophie a co-operative dialogue that will about developing a government-to- Region 2 Councilor Cam Burgess, MNO Vice-Chair Sharon Cadeau, Kiwala, who each signed for their help end the status quo and build a government relationship between MNO Secretary-Treasurer Tim Pile, PCMNO Region 4 Councilor respective governments. brighter future for the Métis people the Crown and the MNO. It also Ernie Gatien, Youth Representative Mitch Case, PCMNO Region “As the home of the Supreme of Ontario,” said Minister Bennett. identifies areas of mutual interest 3 Councilor Marcel Lafrance, PCMNO Executive Senator Joseph Court of Canada’s landmark deci- Under the Framework Agreement, and key topics for future negotia- Poitras, PCMNO Region 7 Councilor Pauline Richardson, Member of sion on Métis rights in R. v. Pow- Canada, Ontario and the MNO will tions, such as Métis self-government, Parliament Bob Nault, Parliamentary Secretary to the federal Minister ley, the signing of this Framework begin negotiations toward shared health, housing, education, and a tri- of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Agreement has special significance and balanced solutions that advance partite consultation protocol. and Member of Parliament and MNO citizen Vance Badawey. Métis Voyageur March 2018, Issue no. 99 5 ADVANCING RECONCILIATION

Signatories and witnesses of the Agreement on Advancing Reconciliation with the Northwestern Ontario Métis Historic agreement signed Community. Front row, left to right): Jason Madden, MNO President Margaret Froh, PCMNO Region 1 Councilor Theresa Stenlund and Minister of Crown Indigenous Relations and between Canada and Northern Affairs Dr. . Back (left to right): MNO Sunset Country Métis Council President Brady Hupet, MNO Northwest Métis Council President Ron Robinson, MNO Atikokan and Area Métis Council President Marlene Davidson, Northwestern Ontario MNO Kenora Métis Council President Joel Henley and Member of Parliament for Kenora Robert Nault. Métis Community by MNO Staff

he MNO-Canada Frame- work Agreement on While there is Advancing Reconcili- ation with the Métis much more work Community in North- to be done, our Twestern Ontario was also signed in the Centre Block on Parliament agreement sets Hill. The Northwestern Ontario Métis community was represented out a way forward by the Region 1 Métis Nation of through which we Ontario (MNO) chartered com- munity councils. The goal of the hope the promises Framework Agreement is to begin to work together toward a shared made to our solution that addresses the unique Métis ancestors history and outstanding claims of the Northwestern Métis community. will finally be The Northwestern Ontario Métis community was represented at the addressed and signing by Region 1 Provisional resolved. Council of the Métis Nation of exchange of ideas through respect- respectful and co-oper- Ontario Councilor Theresa Sten- Theresa Stenlund, Region 1 ful dialogue and frank discussion. ative dialogue to lund and the Presidents of the MNO PCMNO Councilor This Agreement will seek to advance strengthen our gov- Sunset Country, Northwest, Kenora reconciliation with a view to set- ernment-to-govern- and Atikokan and Area Métis Coun- tling any outstanding claims of the ment relationship cils. The was agreement sets out a way forward Northwestern Ontario Métis Com- and work together represented by Minister of Crown- through which we hope the prom- munity, including any Métis collec- to build a better Indigenous Relations and Northern ises made to our Métis ancestors will tive claims relating to the Treaty 3 tomorrow with the Affairs Dr. Carolyn Bennett. finally be addressed and resolved,” Adhesion of 1875. Métis people of “Our Métis community has long said Councilor Stenlund. “This is an important step Northwestern Ontario,” said Min- struggled to have our unique historic Under the Agreement, Canada toward reconciliation with the ister Bennett. the interests and well-being of and outstanding collective claims and the Northwestern Ontario Métis Métis Nation of Ontario’s North- Through these negotiations, the Métis Nation of Ontario rights bear- recognized by Canada. While there Community will commit to engage western Ontario Métis Community. parties will work to address these ing citizens from the Northwestern is much more work to be done, our in negotiations that foster an open We are moving forward through outstanding claims and enhance Ontario Métis Community. Métis Voyageur 6 March 2018, Issue no. 99

Beading Kits are taking the Métis Nation by storm Amazing initiative from the MNO Youth Council

submitted by the would need to learn traditional Métis flo- including our recently-launched Grass- who are looking for new and convenient MNO Youth Council ral beadwork, including: easy-to-follow, roots Grants Program (see ad below).They ways of raising funds for youth initiatives step-by-step instructions; 12 colours of make excellent cultural training tools, in their communities. Starting April 1, the size 10 beads; floral beadwork patterns; thank you gifts and meeting giveaways. MNO Youth Council is interested in part- he Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) fabric and stabilizer; nee- Best of all, they help sup- nering with community councils who are Youth Council launched its Learn- dle; and, thread. port the Ontario Métis willing to promote the sale of MNO Youth T to-Bead Kit at the 2017 Annual Kits are only $20 each To order a Community! Council Beadkits, and for each Beadkit General Assembly and since then the with all proceeds going LEARN-TO-BEAD KIT The MNO Youth Coun- sold the MNO Youth Council will pro- beadwork revolution has swept the Métis to support Métis youth- contact: cil welcomes opportuni- vide a $2.00 donation to that community homeland. led, youth-focused initia- [email protected] ties to work with char- to support local youth-focused events and Each kit includes everything anyone tives across the province, tered community councils initiatives.

MÉTIS NATION OF ONTARIO YOUTH COUNCIL

GRASSROOTS GRANTS PROGRAM

Are you seeking to celebrate Métis arts, language and culture? Do you have an idea about how to engage and empower Métis Youth in your community? If so, the Métis Nation of Ontario Youth Council encourages you to apply for a Grassroots Grant!

WHAT IS THE GRASSROOTS GRANTS PROGRAM? WHAT TYPES OF EXPENSES ARE ELIGIBLE FOR FUNDING? The Grassroots Grants Program provides up to $500 to Ontario Métis All Ontario Métis youth-led, youth-focused initiatives and their Youth, ages 18 to 29, to test new and innovative approaches to associated expenses are considered potentially eligible for funding community building. The MNO Youth Council recognizes the energy, under the Grassroots Grants Program. Initiatives will be funded on a creativity and potential of Ontario’s Métis Youth community and priority basis, as funding becomes available. wants to give YOU the tools to help us empower YOUth!

contact: [email protected] Métis Voyageur March 2018, Issue no. 99 7

LOUIS RIEL DAY ∞ ACROSS THE PROVINCE

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1 ) Métis Dot Art acitivity at the Waterloo Region Museum. 2) Learning to finger weave in . 3) Youth Canoe Expedition 2017 canoer André Nault shares his journey. 4) The story of Riel with Jennifer Parkinson at the Waterloo Region Museum.

A week of Riel Day events with the MNO Grand River Métis Council submitted by Jennifer Parkinson 2017 MNO Canoe Expedition par- President, MNO Grand River Métis Council ticipant, André Nault for sharing his experiences with the students at one of the workshops. The students For the Métis Nation of Ontario helped raise the Métis flag in front of the Museum. (mno) Grand River Métis Council After snack time, the students split into four groups and set off to (grmc), Riel Day is celebrated enjoy a day of learning. André kept the students entertained with his through the entire week. canoe stories in the theatre. Senator Lévis and Treasurer Les- City of Guelph flag raising with Mayor Cameron Guthrie. lie-Anne Muma brought out the stu- Waterloo Region Museum dents’ creativity with Métis Dot Art November 13, 2017 on rocks. Councilor Alicia Hamilton City of Guelph She talked about Riel’s life and why and MNO citizen Dave Skene played November 14, 2017 Riel Day is celebrated each year. he Council’s 2017 Riel Day Métis games with the students in the Mayor Guthrie reminisced about started off at the second foyer. President Parkinson had the he City of Guelph has been a his first flag raising celebration and T annual Riel Day celebration students role play to sell Rupert’s Tlong time partner for the MNO how much he has learned about at the Waterloo Region Museum. Land to Canada and how to react to GRMC Riel Day celebrations. This the Métis. The MNO GRMC gifted This year 84 students participated this as Red River Métis. was the eighth annual Métis flag Mayor Guthrie with a Region 9 sash. for a whole day at the Museum. It was a draw as to which group raising in Guelph. It started in the Everyone ventured into the cold As the students arrived at the was louder, Métis games or the afternoon with students from Central to raise the Métis flag in front of City Museum, each received a small negotiations during the role play- Public School travelling to Guelph Hall. Cheers could be heard through Métis flag on a stick. ing! From this the students learned City Hall. downtown Guelph as the flag hit the Once they were all gathered Senator Carol Lévis presenting Riel’s story, the Métis role in bringing Several MNO citizens and mem- top of the pole. in the foyer, MNO GRMC Presi- the Region Nine Sash to MNO the west into Canada and why Riel bers from the Guelph commu- There was no wind, so Mayor dent Jennifer Parkinson welcomed Canoe Expedition crew member Day is celebrated. nity also came to celebrate. City of Guthrie suggested that if everyone them. MNO GRMC Senator Carol André Nault. The Museum has had so many Guelph Mayor Cameron Guthrie blew hard, the flag would move. Lévis offered a prayer to get the day requests from schools to come to and City of Guelph Councilor James Everyone laughed as the students started. The students heard a little thank you for organizing the schools this Riel Day celebration that they Gordon took time out of their busy tried. Participants then returned to bit about Louis Riel’s life from Presi- and providing the space for the have asked MNO GRMC to do two schedules to join the celebration. City Hall for a finger weaving work- dent Parkinson. celebration. days in 2018. President Jennifer Parkinson wel- shop. An hour later, the students Waterloo Region Museum’s Pro- Senator Lévis presented a Region comed everyone and thanked the returned to their school each wear- gram Coordinator, Dave Neufeld, 9 Sash to University of Waterloo City of Guelph for their contin- ing a new finger woven bracelet. accepted a Métis culture book as a MNO Infinite Reach Facilitator and ued support of the MNO GRMC. continued on page 8 Métis Voyageur 8 March 2018, Issue no. 99

LOUIS RIEL DAY ∞ ACROSS THE PROVINCE

(left to right) City of Guelph Councilor James Gordon, MNO GRMC Finger weaving on Riel Day at Raising the Métis flag Riel Day at Kitchener City Hall. Treasurer Leslie Muma, MNO GRMC Councilor Diane Kilby, former Cambridge City Hall. GRMC Senator Ed Hass, MNO GRMC President Jennifer Parkison and Guelph Mayor Cameron Guthrie. Riel Day events with the MNO Grand River Métis Council continued from page 7 After the speeches, everyone ven- walked over to Cambridge City Hall Hall, Councilor Wolf helped raise Everyone enjoyed soup and ban- tured outside to raise the Métis flag. to join the celebration. the Métis flag. She then joined the nock with a room full of students. City of Kitchener The students each took turns using The students arrived early, so students to learn finger weaving President Jennifer Parkinson November 15, 2017 the crank to take the flag to the top the teacher took the opportunity along with community members was asked to speak about Riel Day. of the pole. to talk about government with the who happened to come into City She spoke briefly to the students on he MNO GRMC arrived bright Once back inside City Hall, the grade five students. President Jen- Hall during the celebration. Many why Louis Riel Day is celebrated. Tand early at Kitchener city hall students learned to finger weave. A nifer Parkinson joined the conversa- had several questions and a few After lunch the beading broke out. for its third annual Riel Day flag rais- challenge for some young men in tion by teaching the students about shared stories of what they knew Treasurer Leslie-Anne Muma and ing. Grades seven and eight students the group, but they all managed to the MNO governing structure. of Riel and the Métis. When all of President Parkinson spent some from St. Paul’s Catholic School trav- finish their bracelets in time to catch Acting Mayor, Councilor Pam the bracelets were finished, the stu- time chatting with the students and elled by city bus to participate. the bus back to school. Wolf, participated in the speeches. dents said goodbye and walked back admiring their beadwork. There were no school buses Councilor Wolf talked about what to school. available that morning, so the stu- City of Cambridge she knew of Louis Riel, her visits The MNO Grand River Métis dents used public transit. Appar- November 16, 2017 to Manitoba and what Riel’s sacri- University of Waterloo Council is looking forward ently, this was a new experience for fice meant to her. She proudly wore November 16, 2017 to another week of Riel Day many of them. Acting Mayor, Coun- nother bright and early morning her Louis Riel necklace that she pur- celebrations in 2018! cilor Yvonne Fernandes, represented Atook MNO GRMC to the City chased in Manitoba. he MNO GRMC finished off the city at the ceremony. of Cambridge for its third annual The MNO GRMC gifted Coun- Tits week of Louis Riel Day cel- The MNO GRMC gifted Coun- Riel Day flag raising. Students from cilor Wolf with a Métis mug. Out ebrations with lunch at the Univer- cilor Fernandes with a Métis mug. Central Public School in Cambridge in the courtyard of Cambridge City sity of Waterloo Aboriginal Centre.

Investment in Affordable Housing (2014 Extension) ONTARIO RENOVATES NORTHERN REMOTE COMMUNITIES Eligibility Criteria:

• You must reside in a northern remote community with a population of 2,500 or less • Your total household income must be at or below the 60th percentile in your area • The value of your home must be at or below the average market selling price in your area • The house must be your sole and principal residence • The house must require major repairs and/or modifications for persons with disabilities

TO APPLY CONTACT: Infinity Property Services: an agency of the Métis Nation of Ontario 226 South May Street , ON P7E 1B4 Tel: 807-626-9300 • Toll-Free: 1-800-891-5882 • Fax: 807-626-9030 [email protected] • www.infinitypropertyservices.ca Métis Voyageur March 2018, Issue no. 99 9

LOUIS RIEL DAY ∞ ACROSS THE PROVINCE Louis Riel Day activities in submitted by Catherine Corbett 1 3 1 ) Two Peel Regional Police MNO Métis Family Wellbeing Officers with MNO CRMC Coordinator Tresurer Darlene Lent, President of Peel Aboriginal Network Kris Noakes, and n November 19, 2017, the MNO citizen and Peel Regional Métis Nation of Ontario Police Officer Robert Bell. O(MNO) Credit River Métis 2) Three youth with their Council (CRMC) hosted its Louis completed ornaments. 3) Riel Day celebrations at the Peel 4 MNO CRMC President Karen Regional Police Association head- Derocher and Métis Elder Leon quarters in Brampton. The Council Fleury. 4) A Grandmother with received support from the MNO staff her grandchild enjoying the in the MNO Brampton office. The Angel Ornament workshop. 5) event was hosted by MNO CRMC MNO citizen and Peel Regional Senator David Neville, past Senator Police Officer Robert Bell’s son Bill Morrison, President Karen Der- enjoying the gifted drum. 6) A ocher, Outreach Coordinator Kyl mother and her son showing 2 Morrison, Treasurer Darlene Lent, 5 off their creative ornaments. Councillor Jean-Marc Maheu and Councillor Derek Deluca. MNO Métis Family Wellbeing District School Board of Coordinator (MFWB) Catherine and Mississauga Museums. Corbett and MNO Community Many wonderful connections Wellness Coordinator (CWC) Rose were made with our fellow service Colacci-Fines offered an Angel providers that will ensure that any Ornament Workshop to all guests client who is looking for assistance as well as information on all MNO 6 will be taken care of. Healing and Wellness programs and MNO staff Colacci-Fines and Cor- services throughout the day. bett were able to greet each individ- Attendees of all ages loved the ual and offer them information on Angel Ornament activity and the the new MFWB program as well youth really shined with their cre- as the existing CWC program. The ativity, making different styles of MNO staff and MNO CRMC were ornaments with the many items very pleased that MNO Veterans’ offered by the MNO CWC and Council President Joseph Paquette, MFWB programs. encouraged to bring a potluck dish. Jodie Williams, the First Nations, to the MNO CRMC. Deluca then spent the day with the Council. His There were musicians playing fid- Senator Neville started off the Métis and Inuit Education Consul- gave a compelling speech about his great spirit and engaging stories dle music during the event, hatchet event as the Master of Ceremonies. tant with the Dufferin-Peel Catho- own spiritual journey and a prayer were a treat for each guest who had throwing outside the venue, a tra- Past Senator Morrison then took the lic District School Board, presented before inviting guests to enjoy din- the pleasure of conversing with him. ditional knowledge display, Nun- stage to open the event and intro- the So they Can Go Home Mocca- ner catered by Nish Dish. The event was a great success atuavut “Our Ancient Land Dis- duced the MNO CRMC to the many sin Project that the MNO CRMC Several service providers and with 85 people in attendance. Sev- play,” Peel Regional Police Diversity guests in attendance. Outreach proudly assisted with. MNO CRMC MNO citizens came to mingle and eral long lasting connections were display, an auction table, vendor Coordinator Morrison gave a pre- Councilor Deluca and his daughter take part in the celebration. Some of made and fun stories shared. Service booths, face painting and informa- sentation on his role with the Coun- Emily presented a community drum the service providers in attendance providers, citizens and community tion on Mississauga Museums. cil and President Derocher gave a to the Council. The drum was awo- were members of the Peel Regional members all gave positive reviews of The day began with some speech on the Council’s impact with ken by ceremony with the help of Police, Peel Aboriginal Network, the new office space and event. light refreshments as guests were the community. Métis Elder Leon Fleury and gifted Peel Children’s Aid Society, Peel

REGIONAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (RAC) & MÉTIS AWARDS COMMITTEE (MAC)

The Metis Nation of Ontario (MNO) ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: is seeking Métis community members who are interested in volunteering their • RAC members review and recommend time as members of Regional Advisory training proposals through an anonymous Committee (RAC) or Métis Awards review process with the assistance of Committee (MAC). These roles offer the Regional Employment and Training an opportunity to make a valuable Coordinator (RETC). contribution to the Métis community • Reviews are ongoing however time across Ontario. RAC and MAC members commitment is limited in nature. (Left to right) Town of Cochrane Councilor Derryl Owens, MNO assist in the review of employment and • MAC members are required to review Northern Lights Métis Council (NLMC) Councilor Aurel Courville, bursary applications once or twice a year. MNO NLMC Chairperson Urgel Courville and MNO NLMC training services in keeping with program • All RAC and MAC business is to be Women’s Representative Jackie Courville. Principles, Policies and Procedures. completed by fax, e-mail and/or teleconference wherever possible. MNO will provide the tools necessary to assist us Louis Riel Day flag with making informed decisions raising in Cochrane • RAC/MAC work is strictly voluntary submitted by Jackie Courville MNO Northern Lights Métis Council Women’s Representative

n November 16, 2017, the Métis Town of Cochrane at the ceremony ONation of Ontario (MNO) North- and many local MNO citizens also ern Light Métis Council (NLMC) held attended. a Louis Riel Day flag raising cere- Following the ceremony the Coun- If would like to know more please contact Jade Bourbonnière: mony at Cochrane Town Hall. Coun- cil hosted a traditional feast and a [email protected] or 1-800-263-4889 cilor Derryl Owens represented the game of nutrition bingo. Métis Voyageur 10 March 2018, Issue no. 99

MNO Veterans’ Council Canada’s oldest Métis veteran celebrates 105th birthday submitted by Catherine Corbett MNO Métis Family Wellbeing Coordinator

n January 27, 2018, Métis Nation of Ontario O(MNO) veteran Alex Boucher celebrated his 105th birthday in Britt, Ontario. Alex From our research, was surrounded by many well- wishers including his family, Alex is the oldest friends and a delegation from the MNO and the MNO Veterans’ Métis veteran Council. in Canada and During the Second World War, Alex was part of the Medical one of the oldest Corps and trained new recruits Indigenous in both battlefield medical pro- cedures and on the rifle range. veterans in the Alex’s son Eugene spoke with country. pride about his father saying: “He’s a good father and he takes – Margaret Froh care of everyone.” President, Métis Nation of Ontario MNO President Margaret Froh and Provisional Council of the Métis Nation of Ontario Shelly presented Alex with a 1 (PCMNO) Region 7 Councilor Quilt of Valour produced by the Pauline Richardson both attended Near North Quilters Guild. the party and made presentations Everyone in attendance was to Alex on behalf of all MNO citi- blessed to share in the pride zens. President Froh presented his family and fellow citizens Alex with the Order of the Sash felt towards Alex. MNO Presi- as well as a Métis blanket. dent Froh explained: “From our MNO Veterans’ Council Chair research, Alex is the oldest Métis Brian Black, Secretary-Treasurer veteran in Canada and one of the Greg Garratt and Women’s Rep- oldest Indigenous veterans in the resentative Shelly Claus repre- country.” sented Métis veterans at the party. Alex’s children indicated that Greg presented Alex with an offi- he is in fine health and his spirits cial replica of the statue “Métis: are high. They say he is already Alex Boucher with members of the MNO Veterans’ Council executive during his birthday party. The Métis Nation,” the original of looking forward to his 106th (Right to left) Chair Brian Black, Secretary-Treasurer Greg Garratt, Alex Boucher and Women’s which stands in Penetanguishene. birthday party! Representative Shelly Claus

Métis Nation of Ontario Veterans Council thank Bruce Power for their support of Vimy Project submitted by Greg Garratt MNO Veterans’ Council Secretary-Treasurer

n November 7, 2017, the together with Métis youth for Vimy Métis Nation of Ontario commemoration events in Ottawa O(MNO) Veterans’ Council the weekend of April 9. (MNOVC) presented Bruce Power To cover the costs of the Vimy representative John Peevers with a Project the MNO Veterans’ Council certificate and photo to thank Bruce launched a highly successful fund- Power for their contribution to the raising campaigns and Bruce Power MNO Veterans’ Council Vimy Com- was one of their most generous memoration Project in Ottawa ear- supporters. lier this year. The MNO Veterans’ Council also The presentation took place in the recognized Bruce Power for their visitor center at Bruce Power north support at the Presidents to Presi- of Tiverton Ontario. dents Dinner that was held in Janu- April 9, 2017, marked the 100th ary this year. At the dinner the MNO anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Veterans’ Council gifted a paddle Ridge. One of the most consequen- created by MNO citizen Maurice tial battles of the First Word War Cadieux to Bruce Power President and one in which Canadian troops Mike Rencheck. played a pivotal role. The Battle of After the MNO Veterans’ Coun- Vimy Ridge was commemorated cil recognized Bruce Power, Peev- in Vimy, France, in Ottawa and all ers provided the Council members over Canada. For over two years, with a tour of their facilities. Bruce the MNO Veterans’ Council worked Power officials explained the impact (Left to right) MNO Veterans’ Council President Joseph Paquette, MNO Veterans’ Council Sgt-At-Arms hard on their Vimy Commemo- of nuclear power on the MNO and Doug Woods, Bruce Power representative John Peevers, MNO Veterans’ Council Secretary-Treasurer ration Project. They planned and its citizens and also provided infor- Greg Garratt, MNO Veterans’ Council Women’s Representative Shelly Claus and MNO Veterans’ fundraised to bring Métis veterans mation on nuclear safety. Council Senator Guy Mandeville C.D. Métis Voyageur March 2018, Issue no. 99 11

MNO Veterans’ Council MNO Grand River Métis Council honours Métis veteran and community hero submitted by Diane Kilby, MNO Grand River Métis Council Councilor

n November 4, 2017, the attended with his wife Ella. MNO Métis Nation of Ontario GRMC President Jennifer Parkin- O(MNO) Grand River Métis son pinned the Louis Riel medal Council (GRMC) held a special on Pépin and presented him with celebration to honour Bernard his certificate. MNO GRMC Sena- Pépin, a community hero. tor Carol Lévis gifted Pépin with a MNO citizen and veteran Pépin Region 9 sash on behalf of MNO served two extended terms with GRMC. the Canadian military totalling 26 The celebration also featured years of service. He is also a skilled Métis fiddler Alicia Blore who and award-winning sharpshooter provided some excellent jigging who competes at provincial and music and three kinds of delicious national levels. homemade soups were made using The MNO GRMC decided that the produce from the MNO GRMC a community celebration was the community garden. The celebra- best way to fete this community tion meal also included bannock, hero so they arranged to present friend bread, salad and bountiful him with his Louis Riel medal and desserts. certificate that recognize his out- All in all, a great way to recog- standing military service to Canada nize the service of a Métis veteran. during the celebration. Pépin MNO veteran Bernard Pépin and his wife Ella with MNO Grand River Métis Council citizens.

MNO Employment in Energy Project INDIGENOUS WOMEN IN TRADES The Energy Sector in Ontario is looking for Indigenous people to work in the trades. This is a fully funded 8-month training program with an 8-week work placement in Pre-Trades for the energy industry for Ontario self-identified Indigenous participants, with a focus on women. The next session will begin in September, 2018.

Training provided in an energy-sector field, such as but not limited to: This great opportunity includes: • Electrical Techniques • Career counselling and resume support from Métis Nation of Ontario • Welding Techniques and partners • Industrial Maintenance Techniques • Expenses eligible for coverage include: tuition; books and supplies; safety equipment; living allowances; dependent care and travel Following in-class training, participants proceed to paid work placements • Training is open to Métis, First Nations and Inuit people, with a focus with partners in the energy industry. Work placements will provide the vital on women experience to continue on in skilled trades and/or employment.

For more information please visit www.metisnation.org or contact:

Rachelle Brunelle-McColl, MNO Project Coordinator Jackie Lachnit, MNO Employment Developer 1-705 527-1228 ext 215 | [email protected] 705-474-2767 ext 313 | [email protected] Métis Voyageur 12 March 2018, Issue no. 99 COMMUNITY

A big November for the MNO Northern Lights Métis Council

This story includes information from a story Cutting the ribbon at the grand posted online by the Cochrane Times and opening of the new MNO office submitted by MNO Northern Lights Métis in Cochrane. (Left to right) MNO Council President Doug Hull and Women’s Northern Lights Métis Council Representative Jackie Courville. citizen Jamie Mageau, MNO Métis Family Wellbeing Coordinator Tracy Kerr, facility owner Line ovember 2017 was a very big Dumont, Cochrane Town Councilor month for the Métis Nation of Darryl Owens, MNO Northern NOntario (MNO) Northern Lights Lights Council President Doug Métis Council (NLMC)! In one week the Hull, MNO Northern Lights Youth Council celebrated their move to new quar- Representative Hunter Mageau. ters in the new MNO office in Cochrane, Picture courtesy of the Cochrane commemorated Louis Riel Day and made Times. an impressive donation to the Commando Lake Project. Jackie Courville, MNO NLMC Women’s Representatives said that the Council was encouraged by the great reception these facility is a better venue for more activities MNO staff also held a nutrition bingo in On Louis Riel Day the MNO NLMC also events received in the community. as well office space for various personnel. which winners got to choose from a variety presented the Town of Cochrane with a The new MNO office in Cochrane houses An official grand opening for the building of food packages as their prize. donation of $1000 to go towards providing staff for the MNO Métis Family Wellbeing was held in November with attendees The MNO NLMC was very pleased with retractable doors on buildings currently and the MNO Aging and Home programs enjoying a feast that included such tradi- turnout in particular with the number of of under construction at Commando Lake. as well as serving as the home for the MNO tional foods such as roast deer, bear sau- people who attended from Iroquois Falls. The Commando Lake Project is a nearly $2 NLMC. The MNO NLMC also has plans sage, moose stew, chili, pickerel and par- Also in November, the MNO NLMC held million legacy project for the community to hire a Youth Program Coordinator who tridge. A regular stew was also served for a Métis flag raising to commemorate Louis that will provide a perfect outdoor gath- will work out of the new building. The new those who didn’t want wild meat. Riel Day (see the story on page 9) ering place for all ages.

MNO Grand River Métis Council teach beading to Wellington Catholic District School Board teachers submitted by Leslie-Anne Muma, MNO Grand River Métis Council Treasurer

n January 11, 2018, the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Grand River Métis Council (GRMC) provided Oa workshop at a Wellington Catholic District School Board professional development day in Guelph. Valerie Marks with the Board’s Equity and Inclusion with an Aboriginal Focus office arranged for MNO GRMC President Jennifer Par- kinson and Treasurer Leslie-Anne Muma to teach 21 teachers. First thing in the morning, President Parkinson made a Métis 101 presentation and answered many great questions about Louis Riel and Métis History. The teachers were so interested that the session went overtime. After the morning break, President Parkinson and Treasurer Muma taught Métis beading. Everyone in attendance received a beading kit to take home with them. Once the teachers had learned how to bead they didn’t want to stop. After lunch, Marks, who was also enjoying the beading, let the beading continue stating: “I have never seen teachers so engaged in an activity before.” As can be seen in the photo to the right the teachers all did an excellent job. Everyone had a lot of laughs and a lot of fun. Teachers from Wellington Catholic District School Board show off their Métis beading with MNO GRMC President Jennifer Parkinson and Treasurer Leslie-Anne Muma. Métis Voyageur March 2018, Issue no. 99 13

MNO citizen Barb Lier teaches jigging during a school presentation.

MNO Grand River Métis Council reaches over 3000 students in 2016-17 submitted by Jennifer Parkinson MNO Grand River Métis President

Students in the grade five class from École Catholique Nouveau Regard in Cochrane he 2016-17 school year proved to be proudly display their healthy creations. Photo provided by Nouveau Regard very busy for Métis Nation of Ontario T (MNO) Grand River Métis Council (GRMC). The MNO GRMC was also very successful as it reached over 3000 students with its Métis culture and heritage awareness MNO provides Healthy programming. September 2016 started out with the Cambridge Multicultural Festival where Métis dot art painted on rocks. snacks workshops at the MNO GRMC taught Métis beading, finger weaving and fun Métis jigging to to fit in one more school visit before the participants. Also in September, the MNO holidays. From January to June, the MNO Cochrane School GRMC partnered with the Waterloo Region GRMC visited 15 more schools, with many Museum for their First Peoples Festival that visits to multiple classes in the same school. submitted by response from educators, students, and par- over three days included 1,200 grades six to Two high schools invited the Council to Tracy Kerr ents alike. The workshops have been pro- eight students. In October, the MNO GRMC return to provide more cultural lessons. MNO Métis Family Wellbeing Coordinator vided to a range of grade levels between visited four schools to share Métis 101 One high school requested presentations junior/senior kindergarten and grade eight. with the students. In November, the MNO from the Council four times in the same During the workshops the students and GRMC visited another eight more schools. semester. The Council members had a great n an effort to provide more Métis pro- teachers participate in making fruit kabobs The MNO GRMC invited local schools time at every presentation! gramming in the Cochrane school sys- and fruit and yogurt parfaits. The students to participate in the Riel Day flag raisings The Council also partnered with the Item, Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) take part in cleaning, cutting and creating that the Council organized in three cities. Upper Grand District School Board for staff from the MNO office in Cochrane their dishes. The students are taught about 120 students celebrated with the Council their Turtle Island Heritage Festival. There collaborated with the Urban Aborigi- food handling safety, knife safety, the impor- at the flag raisings and they also had fun Council members had a great time making nal Healthy Kids Program at the Ininew tance of healthy eating and other ways of learning and participating in Métis games, medicine pouches with 520 students over Friendship Centre in Cochrane to offer a staying healthy. jigging and finger weaving. Also on Riel three days. series of Healthy Snack Making Workshops It is wonderful to see the youth excited Day, the Council was invited by Waterloo To sum up the year, the MNO GRMC at schools in Cochrane including École and willing to try new healthy options for Region Museum to host its first ever all shared Métis culture and history with 3,232 Catholique Nouveau Regard. snacks. The program will be continuing for Métis programming. students and is looking forward to a great To date, 10 workshops have been pro- the rest of the school year. In December, The MNO GRMC managed 2017-2018 school year! vided in the schools with a positive

MNO High Land Waters Métis Council participates in Governance and Finance Training by Glen Lipinski, MNO Community Relations Coordinator

n November 25-26, 2017, and Finance Training that helps OThe Métis Nation of Ontario improve community councils per- (MNO) Community Relations Coor- form their work. dinator Glen Lipinski facilitated Since the MNO has offered this Governance and Finance Training training, the following commu- for the MNO High Land Waters nity councils have participated: the Métis Council (HLWMC). MNO Moon River, Sunset Country, The MNO benefits immensely Kenora, Northwest, Windsor, Clear from the dedicated volunteers Waters, High Land Waters, North who are members of its char- Bay, Temiskaming, Northern Lights, tered community councils. These Thunder Bay, Atikokan and Area, hard-working individuals spend Niagara Region, Peterborough and (Front row , left to right) Candance Lloyd, Denise Apple, Jamie Grand. (Back row , left to right) Ashley hundreds of hours building District Wapiti, Grand River, Credit Lloyd-Gomez, Scott Lloyd, Robert Lloyd, Lee River and Marlon Lloyd. and strengthening their Métis River, and York Region, communities. Sudbury, Ottawa Region, North community councils as the MNO’s everything from how to run effec- community councils follow. Through funding provided by Channel, Great Lakes and Georgian local governments, whose structure tive meetings and engage citizens The MNO will be updating these the New Relationship Fund, the Bay Métis Councils. and purpose is coordinated through in council activities to budgeting training programs in the coming MNO has been able to continually The course is a two-day seminar each council’s charter agreement and the various financial practices, months based on feedback from develop and deliver Governance held locally that explains the role of with the MNO. The course covers regulations and legislation that community councils. Métis Voyageur 14 March 2018, Issue no. 99 Connecting to your Métis Community

The Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) ONTARIO MÉTIS maintains the only recognized ROOT ANCESTORS provincial Registry for Métis. The Registry was established in 1994 to Finding a connection to Métis ancestors from Western Canada is relatively identify and register Métis citizens straightforward because of the federal government’s scrip records that clearly identify Métis individuals in the West. Few such records were issued and harvesters who are eligible rights for Métis in Ontario and finding connections to historic Métis communities holders in the province of Ontario. and ancestors can be more challenging. In 2017, after years of painstaking and rigorous research, the MNO took a Métis people who are ordinarily residents of Ontario can make an appli- huge stride towards making it easier for individuals to identify their Métis cation for citizenship to the MNO. The applications are assessed by an ancestor(s) by releasing nearly 100 Ontario Métis Root Ancestor Reports. independent Registrar who approves for citizenship those applicants who meet the criteria set out in the MNO’s definition of Métis, adopted by the Each report focuses on a particular Métis family in a historic Métis commu- MNO AGA. nity and provides the complete documentation including genealogy charts and copies of key documents such as census records, birth or baptismal The MNO appreciates that the Citizenship application process takes time records that demonstrate that family’s connection to root Métis ancestor(s). and effort. In the 25 years since it began the work outlined in the MNO Statement of Prime Purpose, the MNO Registry has collected and archived The Root Ancestor documents that are already complete have already been the genealogical documentation of over 20,000 MNO citizens and has posted on the MNO website (metisnation.org) and are available for use in taken strides to conduct research and publish additional resources that researching and making a MNO Citizenship application. It is expected that can assist Métis to access key records and information. more of these documents will be released as the research is completed.

The MNO emphasizes that the mere identification of a mixed Aboriginal ancestry individual in the historic record does not make that individual a Since its formation in 1993, the MNO has Métis Root Ancestor for the MNO’s purposes or establish an historic Métis worked to fulfil the mandate given to it in community for the purposes of collectively-held rights. The MNO’s rights its Statement of Prime Purpose: assertions and claims are based on its representation of Ontario Métis com- “... to research, publish and promote the munities who developed their own customs, way of life, and recognizably genealogical documentation of the Métis, distinct group identity. Genealogies alone do not establish a Métis com- and establish and maintain a registry of munity. As such, these packages must be read in conjunction with historic Métis citizens of Ontario;” research on Ontario Métis. “... to establish democratic institutions based on our inherent right of self-government;” Métis Voyageur March 2018, Issue no. 99 15

NAME: JANNIQUE ROUYN-NORANDACitizenship Card NAME: JANNIQUEDATE OF BIRTH: ROUYN-NORANDA Citizenship Card 20-02-1959 The bearer of this card is a registered citizen DATE OF BIRTH: DATE OF ISSUE: of the Métis Nation through the Métis Nation REGISTER NO.: 20-02-1959 10-11-2018 The bearerof Ontario’s of this Registry card is a process. registered The citizen Métis Connecting to your Métis Community99-1234567 DATE OF ISSUE: of theNation Métis isNation a distinct through Aboriginal the Métis people Nation whose REGISTER NO.: DATE OF RENEWAL: of Ontario’srights are Registry recognized process. and The affirmed Métis by s.35 of SIGNATURE OF CITIZEN: 10-11-2018 99-1234567 10-11-2018 Nationthe is Constitutiona distinct Aboriginal Act, 1982. people The bearer whose of this DATE OF RENEWAL: rightscard are recognizedis a beneficiary and affirmedof the collective by s.35 rightsof S IGNATURE OF CITIZEN: 10-11-2018 the Constitutionof the Métis Act, Nation 1982. and The mandates bearer of the this Métis card isNation a beneficiary of Ontario of tothe represent collective his rights or her of theindividual Métis Nation and collectiveand mandates rights the and Métis interests. Nation of Ontario to represent his or her THE PATH TO NEW MNO individual and collective rights and interests.

MNO PRESIDENT’S SIGNATURE FRONT SELF-GOVERNMENT CITIZENSHIP CARDS MNO PRESIDENT’S SIGNATURE BACK The Registry & Self-Government Readiness Process (“RSRP”) or the “Reg- As reported in the last edi- istry Review” involves a review of all MNO Citizen files and is part of pre- tion of the Métis Voyageur paring for Self-Government negotiations and the issuing of new MNO and detailed on the MNO Citizenship Card The bearer of this card is a registered citizen of the Métis Nation of Citizenship Cards. MNO Citizenship files are being reviewed to determine website the Registry and NAME: Ontario (“MNO”) and their citizenship file has been confirmed as SAMPLE meeting the current requirements for MNO citizenship that were in whether they meet the current requirements for MNO Citizenship as set Self-Government Readi- NAME: Citizenship Cardplace at the date this card was issued. As such, this MNO citizen has DATE OF BIRTH: JANNIQUE ROUYN-NORANDA been verified as a Métis rights-holder and is a beneficiary of collectively held Métis rights, interests and claims that are protected by section 20-02-1969NAME: DATE OFCitizenship ISSUE: Card out in the MNO Bylaws and MNO Registry Policy (adopted by the MNO ness Process (RSRP) or the JANNIQUEDATE OF BIRTH: ROUYN-NORANDA 35 of the ConstitutionThe Act, bearer 1982. of The this bearer card is of a registeredthis card authorizes citizen of the the Métis Nation of Ontario (“MNO”). The MNO is 10-10-2018 MNO to represent themthe governmentas well as their of the collectively Métis Nation held and Métis rights-bearing rights Métis communities within Ontario. Based REGISTER NO.: 20-02-1959 through the MNO’s self-governmenton the MNO Registry structures and Self-Government and institutions. Readiness Process initiated in 2017, this citizen’s MNO Assembly), which align with the Supreme Court of Canada’s decision in R. “Registry Review” involves 99-1234567DATE OF BIRTH:DATE OF RENEWAL:DATE OF ISSUE: The bearer of this card is a registered citizen of the Métis Nation of Ontario (“MNO”). The MNO is 20-02-1959REGISTER NO.: the governmentRegistry file of has the beenMétis confirmed Nation and as rights-bearing meeting the currentMétis communitiesrequirements within for Ontario.MNO citizenship Based as set 10-10-202310-11-2018 out in the MNO Bylaws and Registry Policy that were in place as of the date of the issuance of this 99-1234567 DATE OF ISSUE: on the MNO Registry and Self-Government Readiness Process initiated in 2017, this citizen’s MNO v. Powley for the identification of Métis rights-holders. a review of all Citizenship card. As such, this MNO citizen has been verified as a Métis rights-holder through an objective REGISTER NO.: DATE OF RENEWAL: Registry file has been confirmed as meeting the current requirements for MNO citizenship as set SAMPLE10-11-2018 verifiable process and as a beneficiary of collectively held Métis rights recognized and protected by 99-1234567 out in the MNO Bylaws and Registry Policy that were in place as of the date of the issuance of this 10-11-2018 card. internationalAs such, this lawMNO as citizenwell as hassection been 35 verified of the Constitution as a Métis rights-holder Act, 1982. The through bearer an of objectivethis card authorizes files. If a citizenship file is DATE OF RENEWAL: MNO PRESIDENT’Sverifiablethe MNOSIGNATURE process to represent and as a hisbeneficiary or her collectively of collectively held Métisheld rightsMétis rights through recognized the MNO’s and democratic protected self-by 10-11-2018 internationalgovernment law as structures well as section and institutions. 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982. The bearer of this card authorizes There have been many questions about the RSRP and also a great deal of complete, that MNO citizen will the MNO to represent his or her collectively held Métis rights through the MNO’s democratic self- government structures and institutions. misinformation and misunderstandings about the current decisions made receive a letter confirming their and the path forward. MNO is committed to providing ongoing updates to file is complete and will receive a new MNO Citi- MNO PRESIDENT’S SIGNATURE MNO Community Councils and MNO Citizens as any new developments zenship Card that identifies them as a Metis rights holder under MNO PRESIDENT’S SIGNATURE or decisions are made related to the RSRP. MNO Citizens absolutely have Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982 (as soon as these cards have com- a say in this process and as detailed in the information bulletins that are pleted production). If there is documentation miss­ing in a MNO citizen’s posted on the MNO website further information will be brought to the file, a letter will be sent to the citizen informing them of what is necessary 2018 MNO Assembly for discussion and potential action. to complete their file.

Council members and Citizens are invited and encouraged to ask questions ** Please note your existing MNO Citizenship Card or request more information at any time. MNO administration is prepared continues to be valid. ** to schedule meetings or arrange town hall sessions for Communities and Citizens as requested feel free to email [email protected]. ** Please be sure to update your address with the MNO Registry **

Additional information about the RSRP can be found on the MNO website: CONTACT: MNO REGISTRY www.metisnation.org/news-media/news/rsrp-1 Suite 1100 - 66 Slater Street | Ottawa | K1P 5H1 1-855-798-1006 | [email protected] Métis Voyageur 16 March 2018, Issue no. 99

PRESERVING MÉTIS CULTURE: Fur Management and Conservation Course offered in Chapleau submitted by safety and proper pelt prepara- is well aware, this winter most of David Hamilton tion. Who better to teach a class of North America has been under a MNO Chapleau Métis Council Métis students than Métis harvester deep freeze and with temperatures President and MNO Mattawa Métis Council hovering around -30 C; the first pri- President Nelson Montreuil? Prob- ority was for the students to build a ably no one! He is a Métis trapper big fire; after which each candidate he definition of culture is: and a certified trapping instructor was required to make two trap sets “The sum of attitudes, cus- with the Fur Managers Federation for randomly selected fur bearing Ttoms, and beliefs that distin- of Ontario. Montreuil brought over animals. guishes one group of people from 40 years of experience hunting and All students passed the course another. Culture is transmitted, trapping in the Mattawa/Nipissing and will receive a certificate from through language, material objects, traditional territory to the course. the Fur Managers Federation, ritual, institutions, and art, from one The final day of the course saw which will allow them to acquire generation to the next.” The fur their own trap lines from the trade in Canada has been a part Ministry of Natural Resources of Canadian history for hundreds and Forestry or start as helpers Graduates of the MNO Chapleau Métis Council’s Fur Management of years and is deeply rooted into Who better to teach on others. and Conservation Course. (Standing, left to right) Al Morin, Jayden the culture of the Métis people In this way part of Métis Byce, Chad Byce, Patrick Dillon, Cameron Plourde, Ben Plourde and across this country; the Métis a class of Métis culture and history will con- Instructor Nelson Montreuil. (Kneeling, left to right) Frank St. Amand, have even been called the “chil- tinue to live on. While no Jeremy Pilote and Brian Byce. dren of the fur trade.” Métis students than Métis one expects all Métis youth to were voyageurs, traders, trap- take up trapping as a full-time pers, hunters, explorers, guides harvester and MNO avocation, they should know and servants of the fur traders. Mattawa Métis where they came from and it is The fur trade is the connection an excellent way to stay fit and of Métis to each other and Métis Council President healthy, especially if you com- culture. bine it with a diet of country The Métis Nation of Ontario Nelson Montreuil? foods (fish and game). Chronic (MNO) Chapleau Métis Council diseases like diabetes were (CMC) sponsored a Fur Man- Probably no one! almost unheard of when the agement and Conservation Indigenous people of Canada Course between January 11 and lived close to the land. There 14, 2018. A total of 10 students the students apply what they had is also the bonus of a little money participated with six of these being learned in the classroom to the to be made at trapping and they MNO citizens. The course consisted bush. The field portion of the will be helping to “preserve our of three days of classroom study course was held on MNO Chap- culture.” and one day of practical applica- leau Métis Council President David This course and others were tion in the bush. Students learned Hamilton’s own trapping territory; a made possible by cultural support about fur bearer biology, humane trap line that has been in his family funding from Detour Gold. harvesting techniques, trap-line for almost 100 years. As everyone Students check their trap line during the final day of the course.

Métis Earth Angel Ornament Community kitchen Workshop in Chapleau and feast in Timmins submitted by submitted by Lynn Bélair Ryah Heavens MNO Métis Family MNO Community Wellness Coordinator Wellbeing Coordinator

immins held a commu- Participants also decorated n December 14, 2017, nity kitchen and feast for cookies and created their own Métis Nation of Ontario T seniors. Twenty-four people bulb ornaments to take home for O(MNO) staff in the Chap- gathered to celebrate the upcom- the upcoming holidays. As the leau teamed up with staff from ing holidays and enjoy each other’s weather was very frosty, everyone the Aboriginal People’s Alliance company. appreciated the warm coffee and of Northern Ontario (APANO) to This event was especially nice tea. Participants shared stories, host a Métis Earth Angel Orna- Métis Earth Angel Ornaments created during Chapleau workshop. for those participants who some- laughed throughout the entire ment Workshop. Métis Earth Angel times feel isolated because their event and it was clear that they Ornaments are a symbol of honour- months. They were greeted with the evening unfolded beautifully. families do not live nearby or they enjoyed this opportunity to spend ing and remembrance. The evening soft seasonal music, coffee, tea, Stories and memories were shared. have mobility issues or don’t have time together. included delicious seasonal snacks water and healthy snacks as well There were smiles, laughter and easy access to transportation. Although this was a happy occa- provided by the APANO staff. as a wide variety of decorations for some tears. Everyone took some The community kitchen sion, some participants and staff There were five participants who their ornaments. time to talk about their own per- included transportation to and reflected on people they had lost gathered to create the ornaments, Everyone had brought at least sonal knowledge of loss and grief. from the event as well as an throughout the year and shared which are a physical keepsake of one personal item belonging to “Check-ins” were made throughout amazing holiday dinner and craft- their stories and memories of their someone special who has passed. their “angel.” One contributor the evening to make sure everyone time. The dinner featured turkey, loved ones. Participants were a little nervous was eager to share what they had was okay and there was some dis- potatoes, stuffing, carrots, salad MNO staff in Timmins organize upon arriving, wondering if the brought and why they had brought cussion on the various services and pies that had been prepared these types of gatherings at least emotions would be too strong to it. This encouraged everyone else available in the area to help with by MNO staff and volunteers. Each once a year and staff and the par- bear as everyone there had lost to talk about the personal signifi- the grieving process. participant also took home enough ticipants look forward to the next someone within the past nine cance of their items and from there left-overs for another full meal. celebration. Métis Voyageur March 2018, Issue no. 99 17 MNO Windsor-Essex-Kent Métis Council experiences whirlwind of activity submitted by Donna Grayer, MNO Windsor-Essex-Kent Métis Council President

he months of November a historical trolley tour of the area, and December 2017 were followed by the business meeting Twhirlwind ones for the and a delicious pot luck meal. Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) The trolley tour was led by local Windsor-Essex-Kent Métis Council historian and tour guide Chris (WEKMC). Carter who spoke about the fur Métis veterans were included in trade in the area. He brought his the City of Windsor’s November 11 many books to sell; some of which Remembrance Day Ceremony with were bought and gifted to those in 1 2 an MNO wreath being laid at the attendance. Cenotaph by Métis veterans Wilfred Some MNO WEKMC citizens Rochon, MNO Veterans’ Council also attended cultural immersion Women’s Representative Shelly training in Rousseau. There they Claus and MNO WEKMC Women’s had the opportunity to hear MNO Representative Sharlene Lance. Senator Ralph Wolf Thistle speak The following Sunday, the of his journey and work. MNO MNO WEKMC held a celebration WEKMC citizens were so moved by and community lunch to honour Senator Thistle that they sent him Louis Riel Day. MNO staff from gift cards as house warming gifts the MNO office in Windsor orga- and as an expression of admiration nized a healing blanket workshop and respect for sharing his story. and MNO WEKMC Senator Jim While the Métis displays at the Turner gave a nice opening and told Chimzuk Museum in Windsor Louis Riel’s story. There were many were taken down in December it good conversations throughout is hoped that there will be another 3 4 the event; everyone enjoyed a hot Métis exhibit in the Museum soon. turkey lunch and delicious desserts In the meantime the MNO WEKMC 1 ) Some MNO WEKMC citizens at the Louis Riel community lunch and healing blanket activity. (Left to right) and went home with their blankets. has created a Metis cultural exhibit Donna Grayer, Senator Jim Turner, Gary Lovell, Robert Desjardins, Jon Rochon, Sharlene Lance and Wilfred In December, the MNO WEKMC that is on display in the MNO office Rochon. Absent Isaiah Grayer, Terry Desjardins. 2) The healing blanket workshop. 3 & 4) Métis veterans annual year-end meeting included in Windsor. participating in the City of Windsor’s Remembrance Day ceremony..

Helen Bradley Memorial Bursaries awarded submitted by Pauline Richardson First place: MNO Region 7 Councilor Leesha Dorion-Leblanc Second place: Celeste Patenaude n Tuesday, December 21, Third place: 2017, the Métis Nation of Samantha Larmante OOntario (MNO) Georgian Bay Métis Council awarded three The bursaries are named for Sen- annual Helen Bradley Memorial Bur- ator Helen Bradley who passed away saries to outstanding Métis youth. in 2010. She was a founding member The presentation of the awards took of the MNO Georgian Bay Métis place at the MNO Midland office. Council and deeply respected within The council selected the three the MNO. She was a recipient of the recipients by evaluating essays that 2008 Ontario Medal of Good Citi- applicants submitted on “What it zenship, an honour recognizing indi- means to be Métis.” To qualify the viduals who have made outstanding students also had to have attended contributions to their communities. at least one MNO Georgian Bay The MNO Georgian Bay Métis Métis Council event in the spring Council would like to congratu- or summer of 2017. late these students and wish them The bursaries each come with a well in their future endeavours. The cash award. First prize is $1,500; Council would also like to thank The recipients of the 2017 Helen Bradley Bursaries with citizens from the MNO Georgian Bay Métis Council. second prize is $1,000; and third Bruce Power for providing the funds (Sitting, left to right) Leesha Dorion-Leblanc, Samantha Larmand, Celeste Patenaude and Heather Garratt. prize is $500. The winners of the for this wonderful bursary and Dani- (Standing, left to right) Trish Paradis, Bernice Paradis, Vicky Dorion, Lorraine Mountney, Cathy Larmand, 2017 Helen Bradley Memorial Bur- elle Callander for doing an excellent Francine Patenaude, MNO Georgian Bay Métis Council Chair Larry Ferris, Dalton Latondress and PCMNO saries were: job organizing the presentation. Region 7 Councilor Pauline Richardson.

MNO staff educate students on bullying submitted by Faceless Dolls Workshop, while the secondary there were many thoughtful conversations Mattingly Turgeon students helped create a Bullying Blanket. Stu- throughout the day around how students, as MNO Community Wellness Coordinator dents were thoroughly engaged throughout peers, can stand up and put an end to bullying. the day in creating their own Faceless Dolls, Learning from what these students go contributing to discussions around violence through, the organizers for bullying awareness n November 22, 2017, Métis Nation against women and bullying and creating per- quickly realized as adults it is vitally impor- of Ontario (MNO) staff from the MNO sonalized squares for the bullying quilt. Stu- tant to educate youth about bullying and help Ooffices in North Bay and Mattawa dents agreed that bullying is an issue at their students develop strategies on how each indi- visited FJ McElligott Intermediate-Secondary school and began the day unsure of how to vidual can do their part to put an end to it. School in Mattawa to provide bullying aware- address it. In the end, it is the youth who need to ness programming to over 160 students. Although these activities triggered some follow through and set examples for the next A quilt square in the Bullying Intermediate students participated in a unpleasant memories for some students, generation on how to treat each other. Blanket. Métis Voyageur 18 March 2018, Issue no. 99

MNO citizens practice their beading skills during the MNO Sudbury Métis Council Annual Fall Harvest Celebration.

MNO citizens at the Sudbury Métis Harvest Festival had the chance to learn about firearms at the Rodmen’s Trail and Gun Club. Métis Harvest Festival in Sudbury submitted by Stephanie Kehoe MNO Métis Family Wellbeing Coordinator

n October 15, 2017, the from Northshore Tribal Council pro- MNO Sudbury Métis Coun- vided a demonstration of Indige- Ocil held its annual Fall Har- nous medicinal teaching, which was vest Celebration at the Rodmen’s Trail enjoyed by all. The MNO Sudbury and Gun Club. The celebration also Métis Council provided a wonderful served as the official launch of the fish fry with door prizes, and ven- Métis Family Wellbeing program in dors also attended. Métis youth held Sudbury. a craft demonstration. Despite pouring rain and cold All in all, there was lots of laughter temperatures, 75 people attended. and it was a great opportunity for The celebration included various MNO citizens to participate in the cultural activities and games for the Métis community in Sudbury. children and adults. A representative

Appreciation day for volunteer drivers in North Bay submitted by providing rides to medical appoint- Mary-Kelly McCormick ments and services. The service MNO Community Support Services allows individuals who for a variety Coordinator of reasons such as infirmity, safety and isolation cannot get themselves to where they need to go. By pro- étis Nation of Ontario viding rides, the volunteers allow (MNO) staff from the MNO MNO clients to access essential ser- Moffice in North Bay held vices while continuing to live in their their annual Volunteer Appreciation own homes instead of with relatives Day event on December 2, 2017. or assisted living facilities. The volunteers recognized assist The work of these volunteers truly with the MNO medical transporta- makes a huge difference in the lives tion service in North Bay and area. of MNO clients. The MNO salutes This service is operated through the the volunteer drivers in the North MNO Community Support Service Bay area as well as those who vol- program and helps MNO clients unteer in MNO programs in MNO maintain an independent lifestyle by communities across Ontario. Métis Voyageur March 2018, Issue no. 99 19

HONOURING WOMEN is part of

Faceless doll quilt created by the students of Brock High School.

CANNINGTON Raising awareness about Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls submitted by and fellow their Canadians had suf- At the end of the day, the floor Raymond Engelsman, MNO Métis Family Wellbeing Coordinator fered in their own country. Feel- was opened for questions. As hands ings of sadness, frustration and went up, they all had only one thing As hands went up, shock moved through the room as they wanted to know: “how can we étis Nation of Ontario finger-weaving and beading work- they all had only each story of a missing women was help?” The youth were motivated (MNO) staff working shops as well as providing informa- one thing they told. MNO staff gave the students to become the change the world M out of the MNO office in tion on Métis history. an outlet for these emotions by pro- needs. They realized that some- have been working to raise On November 23, 2017, MNO wanted to know: viding the supplies to hold a face- thing needed to be done before any the Métis profile in the Durham staff worked with the Brock stu- less doll workshop. Each student more women go missing. MNO staff region over the last year. dents to organize a Louis Riel Day “how can we took a small doll and dressed them explained how to get involved and The MNO Family Wellbeing event. The youth involved in the help?” The youth to represent a woman who had been what options they had such as orga- Coordinator has been working with event decided to make raising lost. Taking the time to make sure nizations to volunteer with, donate the students of Brock High School awareness of the Missing and Mur- were motivated to each one was perfect, the students to, and how to raise awareness. The in Cannington over the last year to dered Indigenous Women the focus worked together to create some- youth resolved to stop the cycle of raise awareness of the Métis presence of the event. become the change thing unique and beautiful just like violence so the next generation of in North Durham/Brock Township. During a presentation students the world needs. women they honoured. The faceless Métis and other Indigenous women Work with both Indigenous and learned about the discrimination dolls were added to a quilt that was can walk down their paths without non-Indigenous students included and abuse that Indigenous women displayed in the school. fear of vanishing.

MATTAWA Earth Angel Ornament workshop honours Métis Women submitted by Christy Lewin MNO Métis Family Wellbeing Coordinator

women’s event was held by MNO staff showed participants at the Canadian Legion in how to create Earth Angel Orna- A Mattawa. Métis Nation of ments that serve as a physical Ontario (MNO) staff from several reminder of loved ones. This activ- MNO Healing and Wellness pro- ity was originally developed to assist grams organized the event and 11 the families of missing and mur- Participants in the MNO Women’s Event in Mattawa. women attended. dered Indigenous women. MNO Mattawa Métis Coun- In the afternoon participants cre- cil (MMC) Senator Joyceline Rose ated healing blankets where each provided an opening prayer and woman wrote words of empower- offering during a vigil to remember ment, encouragement, love and missing and murdered Indigenous respect for themselves and all women. women. This reminded them of Throughout the event, there how special they are as women. was the opportunity to make new During this time, positive memo- memories by telling happy stories ries were shared, laughter and heal- of new beginnings, empowerment, ing continued. resilience, strength and trust. The event closed with Senator One of the workshops organized Rose providing a closing prayer. Earth Angel Ornaments created at the MNO Women’s Event. Métis Voyageur 20 March 2018, Issue no. 99

HONOURING WOMEN is part of

BRAMPTON GRAVENHURST Honouring missing and murdered Faceless doll banner Indigenous women in Brampton represents unity submitted by submitted by Catherine Corbett Sarah Sharp MNO Métis Family Wellbeing MNO Métis Family Wellbeing Coordinator Coordinator

étis Nation of Ontario n December 6, 2017, Métis (MNO) Credit River Métis ONation of Ontario (MNO) staff M Council (CRMC) citizens from the MNO office in Graven- and MNO staff from the MNO hurst provided a faceless doll work- office in Brampton participated in shop as part of National Day of National Day of Remembrance and Remembrance and Action on Vio- Action on Violence Against Women lence Against Women (NDRAVAW) (NDRAVAW) on December 6, 2017, in Huntsville. in Brampton. These NDRVAW events were NDRAWAW events took place at organized by the Muskoka Women’s the Mississauga City Hall and were Advocacy Group. Approximately 20 organized by the Peel Committee people braved the first major snow Against Woman Abuse (PCAWA) fall of the year to attend. These and sponsored by Interim Place, included representatives from Mus- Faceless doll quilt produced the City of Mississauga, United koka Victims Services, Women’s as part of National Day of Food and Commercial Workers MNO Credit River Métis Council President Karen Derocher Shelters, concerned community Remembrance and Action on Canada Local 1006a, the Region of speaks at the National Day of Remembrance and Action on members and survivors. Violence Against Women in Peel and the Ministry of Commu- Violence Against Women. During the faceless doll work- Huntsville. nity and Social Services. shop, reactions ranged from MNO CRMC President, Karen viewed Fragments of Me, an exhibit As with most NDRAVAW events, moments of silence to laughter along with a description of how Derocher spoke at both the opening on display at City Hall. The exhibit a Rose Vigil was held to commemo- as participants dressed their face- they were taken and then a candle and closing ceremony and MNO staff features original artwork reflecting rate the 14 women killed the École less dolls. Dolls were then placed was lit for each one. The major- members unveiled a Faceless Dolls thoughts and emotions surround- Polytechnique massacre on Decem- together as a symbol of unity of a ity of these women were taken banner that had been produced at ing violence against women. The ber 6, 1989. A brief biography of diverse community, united to stop through extremely violent means, a MNO workshop in October. Each exhibit toured the Peel area from each woman was read as 14 roses violence against women. which is evidence of the severity of doll on the banner represented the November 25 to December 10. Fol- were placed in a vase to remember Following the workshop, par- gendered-based violence and the life of a woman or girl and symbol- lowing the NDRAVAW event, the them. The audience took part in a ticipants gathered in silence to continued need to support women izes the united effort to end violence Faceless Doll banner that the MNO moment of silence for the women read out loud the names of women and their families who are currently in all forms in the community. had created was added to the Frag- who senselessly lost their lives 28 taken from us by their partners over experiencing violence or surviving As part of the event, participants ments of Me exhibit. years ago. the past year. Each name was read trauma from their pasts.

Contributions for business plans and ongoing support Rates & security customized to Financing up promote Métis to $1,000,000 business success for resources and related sector businesses

mvdf.ca Métis Voyageur March 2018, Issue no. 99 21 AROUND OUR MÉTIS COMMUNITY

Meeting with officials from two Ministries submitted by Ralph Wolf-Thistle, MNO Senator

étis Nation of Ontario improve the quality of life of Ontar- (MNO) officials often hold io’s ageing population. Through the Mmeetings with the offi- work of MNO citizen and Univer- cials of numerous Ontario govern- sity of Waterloo professor Dr. John ment Ministries to discuss issues of Lewis, the MNO and Ministry of mutual concern. One such meeting Seniors Affairs will collaborate to took place on November 30, 2017 contribute a Métis perspective to with officials of the Ontario Minis- the provincial government’s policy tries of Seniors Affairs and Indige- and community planning work. It is nous Relations and Reconciliation in important that the voices and needs Toronto. The purpose of the meeting of Métis seniors are clearly commu- Director with the Ministry of Indigenous Relations Stephanie Prosen, Director with the Ministry of Seniors was to discuss the needs of Ontario’s nicated to the provincial and local Affairs Kathleen Henschel, Manager with the Ministry of Senior Affairs Deanna Blair, Manager with Métis seniors. governments and reflected in local Ministry of Senior Affairs Alan Ernst, MNO citizen and Associate Professor at the University of Waterloo In recent years, the Ministry policies and programs. The MNO is Dr. John Lewis, Assistant Deputy Minister of Seniors Affairs Abby Katz-Starr, Senior Program Consultant of Seniors Affairs has launched a pleased to work with the Ministry with the Ministry of Seniors Affairs Ellen Yachnin, MNO Senior Policy and Research Analyst Storm Russell, number of programs and funded of Seniors Affairs to provide that MNO Chief Strategy Officer Jennifer St. Germain, MNO Research and Policy Analyst Jennifer Kong and several Ontario communities to voice and direction. MNO Senator Ralph Wolf-Thistle. Santa comes to Cochrane submitted by Jackie Courville MNO Northern Lights Métis Council Women’s Representative

n December 11, 2017, the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Northern Lights Métis Council (NCMC) O held its third Annual Christmas Bowling Party for 27 Senator Carol Lévis with children and their parents at Butch’s Bowling in Cochrane. MacKenzie and Paige Rivers. Children of all ages enjoyed free bowling, pizza and soft drinks. Santa and Mrs.Claus made an appearance to give the children their gifts. The event was another success and MNO Grand everyone had an amazing time. Senator Rick Meilleur and friends at the announcement of federal funding for a research project to help Indigenous seniors. (Left to River Métis right) Greater City of Sudbury Mayor Brian Bigger, Health Science North Director Dominc Giroux, MNO Sudbury Métis Council Senator Council hosts Rick Meilleur and Sudbury Member of Parliament . Christmas potluck submitted by MNO Senator attends Carol Lévis, MNO Grand River Métis Council Senator funding announcement

submitted by he Métis Nation of Ontario Rich Meilleur, MNO Sudbury Métis Council Senator (MNO) Grand River Métis T Council (GRMC) held a Christ- mas potluck on December 3, 2017. étis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Senator Meilleur was there for During the event, special guest, MSudbury Métis Council Sena- the announcement of $1.4 million MNO Clear Waters Métis Council tor Rick Meilleur was among the grant from the federal government Women’s Representative Tobias Clarke, Santa with Baby Jackson. guests on December 4, 2017, at for a research project focused on told the story of the porcupine and the Canadian Institutes of Health improving the health of Indigenous helped everyone make quill earnings. Santa with Baby Jackson. Research in Sudbury. seniors. Participants also made faceless dolls and several vendors had their wares available for sale including MNO cit- izen Cathy Sobczak who brought her beautiful Métis dot art creations. Cathy Honourary MNO Senator learned Métis dot art at MNO GRMC’s Christmas potluck in 2016 and has Reta Gordon meets now turned her artwork into a busi- ness. The MNO GRMC is very proud Senator Murray Sinclair of Cathy! Among the door prizes were jars of submitted by in recognition of his dedicated ser- the MNO GRMC’s homemade High Reta Gordon vice as Chief Commissioner of the Bush Cranberry Jelly. Many partici- MNO Honourary Senator Truth and Reconciliation Commis- pants left the potluck with wonderful sion. gifts. Senator Carol Lévis and other participants had the pleasure of having onourary Métis Nation of a great time with the munchkins, HOntario (MNO) Senator Reta MacKenzie and Paige Rivers. Gordon had the opportunity to A special Marsii goes out to the meet Senator Murray Sinclair when Dublin Street United Church and their she attended a ceremony at Ottawa (Left to right) Honourary MNO community for not only sharing their City Hall on December 4, 2017. Senator Reta Gordon and space but for their continued support The purpose of the ceremony Senator Murray Sinclair at the of the MNO GRMC throughout the was to present Senator Sinclair Key to the City Award reception year! with the Key to the City of Ottawa at City Hall in Ottawa. Métis Voyageur 22 March 2018, Issue no. 99 ACHIEVEMENTS Maurice and Donna Cadieux create Open Forum for Métis artists submitted by presented with the opportunity to shared and donated to groups and Pauline Richardson attend art school but choose not to individuals throughout the Georgian PCMNO Region 7 Councilor go as it meant having to leave the Bay Métis Traditional Territory. Mau- comforts of home. So, it was off to rice and Donna’s passion for their Army Cadet Camp for him and he family, friends, arts and community étis Nation of Ontario then later entered the workforce. is well known. So, in the spirit of (MNO) citizen Mau- Louis Riel said that his people giving back they are inviting other rice Cadieux has a keen would rise again in 100 years and Métis artists, carvers, sculptors, eye when it comes to it would be through the artists and photographers, potters and any Mart. Maurice was born in 1954 and songwriters that they would come others who may be just interested has 13 brothers and sisters. He has forth. In keeping with this theme, in art to attend an Open Forum resided in the Georgian Bay Métis both Maurice and his wife Donna for Métis artists. The idea behind Traditional Territory throughout enjoy the reward they get from the the forum is to provide Métis art- his life. The beauty of the area pro- arts. Many of their efforts have been ists and other artists throughout the vides all artists with a large variety Georgian Bay Métis Traditional Ter- of opportunities to capture some- ritory with a venue to share tech- thing that is one of a kind. Whether, niques, product information, sup- it is the fall colours, an old white plier contact information and just pine tree, wildlife, landscapes or learn from one another. As Maurice the Georgian Bay shoreline; there is is always looking to improve him- always something for everyone. Open self, he is interested in further devel- Maurice’s interest in the arts came oping his skills with “air brushing” to him at a very early age. In the Forum techniques, equipment upgrades late 1950s, television was just com- and perhaps better paint products. ing into the area with only one black for Métis Maurice and Donna would like to and white channel. However, Mau- see other Métis artists and crafters rice watched programs with artists Artists showcased in future editions of the 5-8 pm like Jon Gnagy and has been devel- Métis Voyageur. Wednesday, April 11, 2018 oping his skills from those early There is no cost to attend the @ MNO OFFICE days right up to the present. While 355 Cranston Crescent Open Forum, but in the spirit of attending school, Maurice was able Midland giving Maurice and Donna ask that to learn more and improve his tal- attendees bring along a non-perish- ents. In grade eight he and fellow Light refreshments will be able food gift to support the emer- artist Barry King (from Christian served. gency food bank maintained by the Island) painted a mural in the front MNO Georgian Bay Métis Coun- foyer at the Sacred Heart School in Please RSVP by cil (GBMC). The Cadieuxs are also Midland, depicting the War of 1812. Wednesday, April 4, 2018 to grateful to the MNO GBMC for pro- He was only 12 at the time and this [email protected] viding them with space for the open was a great source of pride for him. or 705-534-1092 forum at the Midland MNO office. Maurice Cadieux. During high school, Maurice was

MNO Citizen named Tales from the Big Canoe Woman of the Decade submitted by program that is aired on CanoeFM Larry O’Connor 100.9 CKHA, on the last Monday of submitted by MNO Citizen every month at 10 pm and replayed Grant Lecky the following Friday at 11 am. Co-partner, Security Partners’ Forum Tales From the Big Canoe has arry O’Connor is a Métis helped to inform, educate and Nation of Ontario (MNO) entertain CanoeFM listeners about étis Voyageur readers have L citizen with the MNO Moon Métis and other Indigenous peo- Mbecome familiar with the River Métis Council. He made a ples in Canada. It offers listeners many successes of Métis Nation proposal last year to the Board of a chance to hear first-hand about of Ontario (MNO) citizen Bon- CanoeFM 100.9 CKHA, a volunteer this important part of the fabric of nie Butlin in the security sector. In community radio station based in Canada. Many listeners, for exam- past issues, the Métis Voyageur has Haliburton, to host an Indigenous ple, are unaware of the Michif lan- reported she is a co-founder and radio show. As Métis are one of guage that was historically spoken Larry O’Connor broadcasting Executive Director of the Security MNO Citizen Bonnie Butlin. Canada’s founding peoples, he pro- by the Métis in both pre and post Tales From the Big Canoe Partners’ Forum (SPF) and Interna- posed that this program would fea- Confederation Canada. tional Coordinator of the Women that she has been named a recipient ture all the Indigenous peoples of Larry’s listeners have also heard in Security and Resilience Alliance of the highly prestigious “Woman Canada with a special emphasis on about Métis culture and its unique Larry has interviewed Indige- (WISECRA). In 2015, she won of the Decade Award,” which will Métis culture, traditions and music. style of fiddle music that has been nous people from coast to coast on the prestigious Professional Secu- be presented to Bonnie at the 2018 This program, now known as handed down over generations a variety of subject matters. To keep rity Magazine’s Women in Secu- Women Economic Forum in New Tales From the Big Canoe, show- as well as about many local Métis the program fresh, he has covered rity Award. Since then, Bonnie has Delhi, India this coming April. cases issues faced by Canada’s initiatives. Métis and other Indigenous events received honours beyond the secu- According to Dr. Arora, the Indigenous people and has now The music played is either including Métis council gatherings, rity and defence industry, which has Women of the Decade is their high- been on the air for over a year. Tales Indigenous music or performed by several First Nations PowWows as included being a speaker in March est award category conferred every From the Big Canoe is an hour-long Indigenous musicians. well as university events. 2016 at an International Women’s year on leading women from across Day event in Winnipeg. the globe with distinguished contri- At the end of 2017, Bonnie butions in various walks of life like received even more prestigious education, entrepreneurship, tech- If you have a story or Council activity to share that you would like highlighted on recognition. In December 2017 she nology, health, media and business. Tales from the Big Canoe please feel free to contract Larry at was notified by the esteemed Dr. It is given to very senior women of [email protected] Harbeen Arora, Global Chairper- influence, excellence who have dis- son at the Women Economic Forum tinctive achievements. Métis Voyageur March 2018, Issue no. 99 23

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Métis artist finding success in Terrace Bay and beyond submitted by is an important gift and I treasure dreams,” she added. organizations such as Ducks third at an art competition in Deep Cam Burgess it,” explained Sharon. Her name in “The reward is when someone Unlimited. The Osprey and Mal- River, Ontario. PCMNO Region 2 Councilor Ojibwe is Mazin-Miigwan, which else sees it!” lard Duck were both award win- Many MNO citizens met Sharon means “Pictured Feather.” Not sur- Sharon uses realistic painting ners at the Wildlife Art and Decoy and saw her amazing work at the prisingly, therefore, Sharon’s exper- and drawing techniques that make Show in Burlington, Vermont. Com- 2017 MNO Annual General Assem- haron Girdwood is a Métis tise is in painting feathers but she each creation unique and finely mon Loon placed fifth in the 2000 bly (AGA) in Kenora where she was Nation of Ontario (MNO) doesn’t stop there. She also dabbles detailed. Ducks Unlimited Ontario Sponsor- a vendor. Sharon’s work attracted S citizen and Métis artist who in abstract painting, sculpture and Sharon’s work is gaining inter- ship Program. Find Eight Wolves lots of attention and many buyers works out of her own studio in Ter- more. “I am always creating,” she national recognition through and Memory Bay placed first and at the AGA. race Bay but whose art is reaching said. people beyond the area. “The pursuit of art is allowing “Living with creative thought my hands to be the extension of my Anyone interested in Sharon’s work can learn more on her website at studiogirdwood.com

Trickster Rabbit by Kristy Cameron. Courtesy of Thunder Bay Art Gallery Fur Trade by Kristy Cameron. Courtesy of Thunder Bay Art Gallery

Art of MNO citizen exhibited at Thunder Bay Art Gallery submitted by Art Gallery. The exhibit is ran from approach and conceptual under- Area Métis Council President Mar- weavings throughout her pieces, Alastair McKay November 24, 2017 to February 25, pinnings with the innovative and lene Davidson. Being raised sur- which evoke sensations such as, Thunder Bay Art Gallery 2018. ground-breaking work of their pre- rounded by the beauty of the natural mystery, energy, contentment, and Converging Lines features the decessors, the work by Kristy Cam- world has given her endless sub- joyfulness. Viewers often contem- work of regional Indigenous art- eron, and the other artists featured jects to paint, while observing and plate saying, “Every time I look at étis Nation of Ontario ists and draws inspiration from the in the exhibit, also speaks to current researching this environment and its these paintings, I see something (MNO) citizen and Métis connective, emanating power lines issues and sheds light on contempo- inner connections. As a Métis art- new!” The bright, bold colours are M artist Kristy Cameron is found in the works of established rary ways of making art. ist and descendant of numerous fur templates for more intricate images one of the Indigenous artists whose Anishnaabe artists such as Nor- Kristy Cameron is a teacher and trade employees, she often incorpo- that unfurl deeper meanings within work is being featured in the exhibit val Morrisseau, Roy Thomas and visual artist, who was born and rates Indigenous and historical con- meanings. Converging Lines: Recent Art From Ahmoo Angeconeb. Though each raised in Atikokan, Ontario. She is tent into her art. With this history the Northwest at the Thunder Bay artist shares elements of their artistic the daughter of MNO Atikokan and and culture, we often see spiritual Métis Voyageur 24 March 2018, Issue no. 99 FAMILY & MILESTONES

A 1935 - 2018 Prayer for Remembering Bob Senator Bob MckayBy PCMNO Executive Senator Joseph Poitras Mckay Great Spirit, You have called our Senator to your n Monday, January 8, 2018, protection; he is done with his time Robert Charles McKay (Sena- on Earth. He has gone to his new tor Bob), chose to pass his MNO President Gary home, leaving us with our memories life on to the Creator. His lov- Lipinski presenting of his inherent goodness, his digni- Oing wife was by his side assisting him in Bob with the Suzanne fied manner, his concern for others, his journey. He was born February 24, Rochon-Burnett his quiet attention to his world. 1935 and a celebration of Bob’s life was Volunteer of the Year Thank you God that he has lived held February 24, 2018. Award in 2014. in our great world and experienced Born in Port Arthur in 1938 to George and the joy of life, the love of family, the Edna McKay, he grew up in the Thunder Bay fellowship of friends and the beauty area. His family were commercial fishers and of our homeland. In his life you lighthouse keepers and he learned at an early provided Bob with strength to face age how to operate a commercial fishery. Dur- the biting winds, light to guide him ing his life he worked in the bush camps and on the paths he chose Then you construction industry, lighthouse keeping took him to your protection. and commercial fishing. He was a member of There is sorrow, heartache and the Operating Engineers Union for 40 years loneliness, which always comes with and in 1965 purchased a commercial fishing parting, but dawn always breaks. license on Sturgeon Lake. Night’s gloom will yield and morn- He met his life partner, Gloria, in 1963 and ing’s light will break through as we they married in February 1964 and had three share fond memories of Bob and the daughters. Bob is survived by his wife Glo- fellowship of being in his company. ria and his daughters: Maureen (Jim) (Sud- We offer our prayer of gratitude bury), Diana (Thunder Bay) and Suzi (Texas) that you will be at Bob’s side on as well as his granddaughter Michelle (Kris) the journey we all must make. His (Thunder Bay). He is also survived by his Spirit is now free from life’s burdens sisters Christina Egeland and Carol Autio of as he makes his trip through the British Columbia and many nieces, neph- peaceful waters of eternity. You were ews and cousins. He was predeceased by his his compass as he carried himself brother George (December 2017) and Marga- from the alleyways of life toward his ret (2016) and his mother and father. broad peaceful avenue. Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Presi- Spread your blessings like a gen- dent Margaret Froh stated: “I have passed tle summer rain, sprinkling Mother on our deepest condolences to Senator Bob’s Earth as she cradles Bob in her wife, Gloria, on behalf of the Métis Nation arms. Mother Earth stay soft, and of Ontario. Senator Bob was such a beautiful let his Spirit be up and on its way man with such an amazing spirit. While we like an eagle soaring homeward. His will feel this loss for a long time to come, we Spirit will dwell in the beauty of are blessed to have so many memories and Bob has some fun at the 2013 Annual General Assembly in Ottawa. your creations. prayers that he has shared with us.” Bless those who shed tears for Jean Camirand, President of the MNO words left unsaid and deeds left Thunder Bay Métis Council stated: “We will of overgrown trails from past decades, volunteered countless hours to teach the Métis undone. Help them to smile and miss this amazing Métis elder, Senator and grave sites from the eighteen hundreds, way-of-life and increase awareness and pride remember their time together with citizen.” rare flora, stories of run aground ships, in Métis culture and heritage. He especially Bob. Memories will build that spe- Former MNO President Gary Lipinski said: past light keepers, local fishing lore, and placed importance on passing on his knowl- cial bridge which brings them peace “Bob was an amazing person, a true elder and much more, Bob is a waling specimen edge to younger people and made many pre- of mind. May the music of the ever Senator. Someone who was filled with histori- and testament of a rare and what seems sentations to schools and youth groups. blowing winds on leaves sweep the cal and traditional knowledge and always will- to me as a dying breed. History oozes In his capacity as a Senator and Métis void from their hearts and bring ing to share. His sense of humor was another from his every word and his recollection Knowledge Holder he also served on numer- gratitude for the time that Bob was gift and he knew just when to interject it to of events includes the smallest detail; ous committees and advisory boards includ- in their lives. lighten the mood or keep a meeting on a pos- you know you’re talking with the real ing the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Our time on Earth is as fleeting as itive track. A true statesman, a gentleman, McCoy, or in his case, McKay! Lakehead University, the City of Thunder Bay, an afternoon shadow lost to an early father, husband and friend to all. He will be Lakehead School Board and the Labour Coun- sunset, a brief moment in time lost deeply missed but not forgotten in that he will In 2014, Bob was one of the founders of cil for Aboriginal Youth. His wise counsel and to the vastness of eternity, but mem- always remain with us in so many ways.” the non-profit organization: Saving the Light- experience were highly valued as evidenced ories are forever. May memories be A colourful character who lived a colour- houses of Lake Superior. by awards he received from the Ontario Public the soothing balm for the void cre- ful life, Bob was the last light keeper and The MNO has been blessed that Bob chose School Board (OPSB). Bob had been a mem- ated by his leaving. caretaker of Point Porphyry Lighthouse near to share so much of his time and his amazing ber of the OPSB Aboriginal Education Advi- Thunder Bay, which closed in 1979. An article talents with his fellow Métis. Bob became an sory Committee between 2008 and 2014 and Marci, published in 2014 by Wilderness North maga- MNO citizen in 1995 only a few years after in 2014 OPSB presented him with both their Thank you, zine about the Lighthouse really caught Bob’s the MNO’s founding in 1993. He joined the Achievement Award and their Award of Excel- Merci, spirit: MNO Thunder Bay Métis Council in 1997 lence to recognize his outstanding community Amen. and became the Council’s Senator in 1999, a service and leadership. … and what a memory this gentleman position he served in until 2015. As a Senator [Bob] has! Whether it is the location and a Métis Traditional Knowledge Holder he Continued on page 28... Métis Voyageur March 2018, Issue no. 99 25 Obituaries

Life’s been good to me. The Lord blessed me with five Sunday, February 4, 2018 with his family They so looked forward to girls and three boys who produced by his side. seeing his smiling face every 14 grandchildren and several Gord was a passionate man who day and the occasional home- enjoyed life to the fullest, especially when made baking made by his great grandchildren. We elders do it came to hockey, family and learning wife Charlotte. our share to help the world. more about his Métis heritage - not nec- Gord was also recognized – Gordon Calder essarily in that order! by Member of Parliament Gord was also one of the founders of Ken Boshkoff for working the MNO Sunset Country Métis Council diligently behind the scenes in Fort Frances, which started in 1994. on behalf of his fellow Métis. Gord also served as a Provisional Council He was the 2011 recipient of of the Métis Nation of Ontario (PCMNO) the MNO Suzanne Rochon- grandchildren - all of whom he was very Senator. He was also very active in darts Burnett Volunteer of the Year Award that proud of, and loved. He will be greatly and of course - HORSESHOES! He was recognized his many contributions to the missed by everyone! Gordon Calder always trying to get everyone involved in Métis Nation. He was so proud to receive His legacy of love and family will live a quick game of horseshoes! the award and had no idea he had even on through his children, grandchildren 1933 - 2018 In 1952, Gord was ecstatic when his been nominated! and great-grandchildren. team the Fort Frances Canadians won the Gord is survived by his wife Charlotte; A Celebration of Life was held Friday, étis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Allan Cup in hockey, for which they were they were married for 44 years. Also February 9, 2018 at the Royal Canadian citizen and Honourary Sen- inducted into the North Western Ontario left to mourn his passing are his daugh- Legion in Fort Frances. Mator with the MNO Sunset Sports Hall of Fame in 1984. ters; Leanne, Carla, Roz, Pam, Charlene Country Métis Council Gord Calder, 84 Everyone loved Gord, especially the and sons Kelly, John and Valley. He also - Submitted by the Calder family years young of Fort Frances, passed away ladies at the Métis office here in town! had numerous grandchildren and great

Chair of the MNO Peterborough and of his family and friends and everyone Robert ‘Snooky’ District Wapiti Métis Council said: “My that had the privilege of knowing him Uncle is the reason we were all able to and spending time with him in their Gelinas reconnect with our Métis Roots.” lives. Our memories of “Snooky” will live February 14, 1958 - January 12, 2018 Predeceased by parents; Bella, Roland; on forever. stepfather Armand; siblings, Linda, There will be no service. Please take a Jacqueline, Gaston, Simon, Normand; moment of silence, light a candle, or just étis Nation of Ontario citizen father-in-law, David (Tub); sisters-in-law, go fishing in memory of him. Thanks to Robert Conrad (Snooky) Gelinas Marilyn, Cindy; brothers- in-law, Robert, all that put a smile on his face through his Mpassed away peacefully with Leon; Niece, Janet; and nephews, Roger, hard times and throughout his life. his family by his side at the North Bay Brad and Jessie. All will be waiting to - Submitted by MNO Peterborough and District Regional Health Centre on Friday, January welcome him and most likely to take him Wapiti Métis Council Chair Christa Lemelin 12, 2018. Robert was in his 60th year. fishing. Robert’s niece Christa Lemelin, the Robert will be dearly missed by the rest

Jorja Gorham Jodi. Loving sister of Davis. She will be cousins, Kyla, Lana, Chelsea, Josh, Jax, missed by her four-legged best buddy, and Jolan. 2006 – 2018 Oakley. Cherished granddaughter of She will be remembered for her Judy (Dan) Taylor, Mark Thompson, exuberant personality, her passion for ith very heavy hearts we need Margaretann Gorham and Robert helping others, her love of art, being a to let you know that with Gorham (Lito) and great-grandaughter of part of many sports teams, and being Wher parents by her side Jorja’s Georgina Penney and Marie Thompson. truly able to express her thoughts and journey here on earth ended, at Sick Kids Adored niece of Wesley Thompson, feelings while making things happen her Hospital, on January 31, 2018 at the age Jennifer (Steve) Dickerson, Luke way. She inspired and connected so many of 11. But as many people have sung Thompson (Stacy), Chris Gorham and communities and is remembered as being before ... Jorja is always on my mind. Nicole Gorham - Elder (Darren). She will AWESOME. Much loved daughter of David and be fondly remembered and missed by her - Submitted by Luke Thompson

Council. Nina Henley, Secretary of the attending Mount Carmel School. She met Alaska, the Ottawa region as well as over MNO Kenora Council said: “Emily was a and married Douglas Quirk in 1954 and to Ireland. force to be reckoned with; a very strong, her family followed in quick succession. Emily soldiered ahead in life happily independent women, who wanted the She had a talent for business and after despite health issues in her later years. best for everyone she met. She held the obtaining her certificate as a hairdresser, She stayed active in recent years, even position of Senator on our Council from started working in her chosen profession, after the passing of Doug and Michael, 2007 until 2012 when she had to give it finally opening her own shops in Kenora whom she missed every day. up due to her health. She will be greatly and Winnipeg. She also became a Her family is deeply grateful missed by all who knew her. May she rest licensed realtor. An opportunity arose to for the kindness, consideration and in peace. return to Kenora after Doug’s retirement, compassionate care provided by the Emily will be dearly missed by her and they became owners of the Anchor physicians and staff of the Emergency daughters Rosemary (Matt Parliament) Inn Restaurant and Marina in 1986. Department, Medical ICU, and third and Patricia, grandchildren Shauna, Emily was a unique fixture for many floor at the Lake of the Woods District Chelsey, Delaney and Justin, great- years in the business community, and life Hospital. In addition, special thanks to Emily Mary Quirk grandson Jack and his Dad Erv Reimer, as a hotelier and restauranteur provided the Home Care staff of ParaMed Home August 21, 1934 - December 31, 2017 numerous nephews and nieces as well as many fascinating stories for family and Health team for care over the years. cousins. Predeceased by her parents Ella friends. Emily felt a strong bond with A Funeral Mass was held on Monday, t is with heartfelt sadness that we and Michael Summers, her sisters Ella people of Indigenous ancestries. She January 8, 2018, at Notre Dame du Portage announce that on Sunday, December and Agnes, and her brothers Gerald and was elected to the MNO Kenora Métis Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers, I31, 2017, after a short illness, Emily Vincent. Council in 2007 in the position of the family asked mourners to consider Quirk (nee Summers) passed away at Emily was a “feisty” lady and a true Senator. She helped found the “Kenora donating to the charity of your choice or Lake of the Woods District Hospital, to force to be reckoned with. She was a Métis Warmth and Wellness Group,” a honour Emily’s memory by passing on an reunite with her late husband Doug and friend to so many, a great mom, and a community group that met weekly to knit act of kindness to someone less fortunate. son Michael in Heaven. wonderful grandma and great-grandma. hats, mitts, sweaters and blankets for the Emily was a past Senator with the She was born in Kenora, and overcame less fortunate. She loved to travel with - Submitted by PCMNO Region 1 Councilor Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Kenora hip problems in childhood while her family, including stops in Florida, Theresa Stenlund Métis Voyageur 26 March 2018, Issue no. 99 Obituaries

(Paul) and loving brother of Nora Timmerman. Lloyd will Lloyd Thompson be fondly remembered by his nieces, nephews and devoted 1940 – 2017 friends. He was predeceased by his parents Nadine and Manley as well as by brothers and sisters, Tom, Durwood, Edith, Ilene, étis Nation of Ontario citizen Lloyd Thompson Emma, Morley, Marilita and Hazel. He was son-in-law of the passed away after a short illness on Wednesday, late Sadie and Dirk Olie. Lloyd was proud member of the MDecember 27, 2017. Lloyd originally came from United Autoworkers Local 593 for 59 years. London and was in his 77th year. He was the beloved husband - Submitted by of Cora for 57 years. He was the dear father of Richard PCMNO Region 6 Councilor, Tom Thompson (Donna) and Larry (Theresa). He was the loving papa of Laura

Trudeau and Pyle families and by his Kenneth’s parents Bernard and Jean “He was always helpful, always with a many friends. moved him and his older brother smile. We are very proud of the fact that Georgian Bay was Kenneth’s life and Christopher into the paternal family he was polite to everybody — strangers love. His spirit and soul will remain with home on Moon Island with his as well as people he knew,” said his the Bay forever. grandmother and grandfather when he mother Jean. “I’ve seen him offer up a Go to Georgian Bay’s Moon Island and was three. He never really left. Kenneth’s chair in a waiting room to an elderly man look around. In your mind’s eye to your love for the Bay had him take a job with when he was only in his teenage years — right you’ll see Kenneth fishing, ahead his cousin’s construction company that not just get up and move, but get up and is where he shot his first deer, to the left he took pride in and allowed him to stay say, ‘here you go sir, you have my chair,’ a cottage he worked on, and behind his home where he was most happy. I’m very proud of that.” parents, brother and sister-in-law who “One thing is, I’m sure you’ve gathered “When he was here he still thanked had to say goodbye too soon. by now, this isn’t the easiest place to his mother for dinner every day,” said Kenneth wasn’t one for leaving the live. You either love it or you hate it and Bernard. Kenneth Trudeau Bay or even straying too far from Moon fortunately, in my opinion, he loved it,” “Whenever he was ever at a meal … he 1987 – 2018 Island, he wasn’t one for book work or said his father Bernard. always thanked the person who prepared boasting of his accomplishments, he Kenneth died on the Bay January 20 the meal for dinner, and Christopher is étis Nation of Ontario (MNO) didn’t race or take chances, he preferred when he was thrown from a machine, the same way,” said Jean. citizen Kenneth Napoleon his picture wasn’t taken with his while snowmobiling home. As expressions of sympathy, donations MTrudeau of Moon Island, passed trademark sideways smile. As a youngster, life on the island meant to the Ontario Federation of Anglers and away on Saturday, January 20th, 2018 at He was a proud Métis, had the sleepovers with cousins, taking a boat Hunters would be appreciated. 30 years of age. patience to create beautiful spaces out of and bus to elementary school in MacTier – Submitted by Louise Goulding with information He was the beloved son of Bernard wood, a generous heart for the people, and then high school in Parry Sound. It from an article by Sarah Bissonette and and Jean Trudeau; loving brother of animals and world around him, and the was fishing and hunting for his own table published in the Parry Sound North Star and Christopher and husband to Mallory. respect of those who knew him and for and that of the Métis elders; cheering on parrysound.com He will be forever remembered by the those he was around. the Leafs and video games.

Birth Announcement

Gerard (Jerry) Albert Legault 1931 - 2018

t is with great sadness the family enlisted in the Canadian Army (Artillery) of Gerard (Jerry) Albert Legault on Oct. 19, 1951. I announces his passing on February After training at Canadian Force 10, 2018. Base Shilo, Manitoba, Jerry attained the He was born in Pentanguishene, position of Gunner First Class. Ontario, yet spent most of his adult years He served in Korea from 1952 to in the Western Provinces. 1953 and was awarded the Canadian Jerry was a Korean Veteran #1 Royal Korea Medal, the Canadian Volunteer Canadian Horse Artillery serving 1951- Service Medal for Korea, the Canadian 1953, a Charter Member of the Korean Peacekeeping Service Medal and the Veteran’s Association Unit #61 and a United Nations Service Medal – Korea. member of the Royal Canadian Legion He was later awarded the Queen’s Branch #256. He was also a Métis Nation Coronation medal. of Ontario (MNO) veteran and was Jerry will be missed by his wife Marie, Meadow River CALLANDER featured in the MNO Veterans’ Council his children, and his many friends. book Fighting for Canada before there An afternoon to remember the life ark and Danielle Callander would like to announce the birth of their was a Canada. of Jerry Legault will be held at Sands daughter, Meadow River Callander. Meadow was born on December 7, His greatest joy was “meeting the boys” Funeral Chapel, 1 Newcastle Ave. 2017 at Royal Victoria Hospital in . Danielle is an Métis Nation of for coffee where he shared his wonderful Nanaimo, on Saturday, March 3, 2018, at Ontario (MNO) citizen as well as a MNO Regional Advisory Committee/ sense of humour. 2:00 pm. Métis Awards Committee volunteer. She served as a member of the MNO He originally wanted to join the Navy, - Submitted by MNO Veterans’ Council President Georgian Bay Métis Council from November 2011 to October 2017. but the office was closed. So he went Joseph Paquette M across the road to the Army office and Métis Voyageur March 2018, Issue no. 99 27 STORIES Relics of submitted by the War of 1812 Jim Turner MNO Senator

Coins dating back to Canada’s he war of 1812 was an pre-Confederation days, found event that left a lot of arti- by Jim Turner. T facts around Amherstburg and Essex county. There were battles up and down the shore- line and islands in this area. In about a four mile radius there was heavy fighting; and the area is rich in history and artifacts. The Métis people, First Nations and British soldiers fought shoul- der to shoulder against the invading American troops. Fort Malden was strategic in that the Detroit River is very narrow there, and the cannons could blow a ship out of the water. There is a museum on the grounds with trenches, palisades, bunkhouses, cannons etc. This is where we had the Métis rendez- vous this summer. I thought we had a wonderful turnout, although through no fault of our own, the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Windsor-Essex-Kent Métis Coun- cil couldn’t be in full attendance as many were busy or away that weekend. The MNO Niagara Regional Métis Council was well repre- sented; in fact they were awarded the best encampment. The count was about 600 people per day that came through to enjoy our history and there was even an education day The grave marker of Simon Girty, who acted as a liaison between The ruins of Old Elliott Homestead near Amhurstburg. One of Jim with Métis people helping groups the British and their Indigenous allies during the War of 1812. Turner’s favourite sites for artifact hunting. of children understand the culture and who we are. There were bus- loads of school kids that came from all around the county. The Métis that were there answered all their ques- The Métis people, First Nations and British soldiers fought tions and taught them about our culture, the fur trade, trapping, how shoulder to shoulder against the invading American troops. to survive and how people roughed it back in the day. Fort Malden was strategic in that the Detroit River is very narrow Thanks to everyone that came, it was a great event, but very windy there, and the cannons could blow a ship out of the water. and cool right on the water. Battles and skirmishes were fought all around Amherstburg and could be winter wheat or an early complete with the flintlocks, trigger, surprise, inside was a scalp and a foundation, he was sure there were LaSalle and around my home. They planting of crops that you shouldn’t barrels etc. I found a bronze ship’s long lock of black hair wrapped signs of a burial near one corner. He say there were about one thousand step on. The best time to do this is porthole with a thick piece of glass around a 70 caliber musket ball. didn’t disturb the ground any fur- American troops that landed on the after plowing and discing and before and the latch and hinge attached. It About two miles from our house ther and moved the foundation. shores just south of our house so planting. was in beautiful shape so I donated sat the cabin of Colonel Mathew Many nice coins have been there is a probability that there are Some of the prime spots are it to the museum. Another time we Elliot. When we were youngsters found on farm fields in the area. I a lot of artifacts to be found there. private property and because of found a human jawbone sticking we used to go in it, but it was very was walking in a field one day and I I know several farmers that have duck and deer hunting, they frown out of the sand, which I brought rickety and the upstairs was ready to noticed what looked like a small flat shoeboxes of arrowheads and lance on people trespassing during that home and gave away. cave in. It is completely gone now piece of cardboard. I picked it up, points, fleshing tools and all man- season. There are however a lot of When we were kids, there was with only a plaque to explain its wiped the dirt off, and it was a one- ner of stone tools. A lot of these places to explore. a clay bank that jutted up about 10 history. The Métis and First Nations cent piece, dated 1852 and issued are dated back thousands of years. I have a small collection of arti- feet above the sandy beach. After a people would meet there and Chief by the Bank of Upper Canada. Sometimes I find them while walk- facts, some that are really nice, oth- rain we would walk along there and Tecumseh attended on many occa- Another time when the water ing on the beach or in a field. They ers that are chipped or broken by you could see bones sticking out. It sions to help the British plan a strat- went out, I decided to go for a quick aren’t easy to spot and you have to farmers plows, discs etc. Many of must have been a burying ground egy to try and defeat the Americans. walk just before dark. There was a have a keen eye. my friends and neighbors also look of some sort but it’s all washed away There was a double fireplace at one little tip of white bone sticking out The water in the Great Lakes has for these treasures. now. Some other acquaintances use end, one for cooking inside one for of the sand. I pulled it out and it been high the last few years so there When there is a strong west metal detectors and find a multi- the guests to cook with on the out- was a tusk from a wild boar. I asked isn’t much beach left right now. It’s a wind, usually in the fall or spring, tude of things from the war. There side. There are lots of artifacts in the the curator at the museum his opin- cyclical occurrence, about every five the wind pushes the water out about are guns, hundreds and hundreds fields around this old house. ion and he said yes, there were wild to seven years the water will recede a quarter of a mile. of musket balls and brass buttons, About a mile closer to our home boars here but thousands of years or become very high and erode the The shoreline has changed over medallions, coins and rings. stands a monument to Simon Girty. ago. I decided to incorporate it on shoreline. Next year we are hoping the last few centuries, and I suspect One of my friends was cutting Simon was hired by the British one of my chokers. it will go back down a bit so we can the waters edge was out that far down a tree for firewood and when Indian Department as a negotiator, I have since acquired an old go beachcombing once again. back then. he was chain sawing it into pieces scout and military leader. He is alleg- metal detector and I plan to try it It’s a different story if you want One fellow was walking out there he noticed a leather bag sticking edly buried there and when one of in the spring. I doubt that I’ll find to walk a farmer’s field. First, you and found a few muskets bundled out of a hollow spot in the center my boyhood friends purchased the a treasure chest but even if I find a have to get permission, and then together. There was no wood left of the trunk. He managed to get it property and the house, he decided bottle cap or a penny, that will be there is the problem that there but the metal parts were all there; out intact and opened it up. To his to build a garage. While digging the exciting. Métis Voyageur 28 March 2018, Issue no. 99 STORIES Trees that mark an ancient trial submitted by Jim Turner MNO Senator

ithin a few miles of my home near Amherst- W burg, Ontario, I have always admired a few trees that are oddly shaped. I can remember them as a youngster. They weren’t dead then, but I wanted to share the picture and the story of these type of trees. There were two in particular in the area but due to This illustration shows the way in which early Indigenous people development, there is only one left bent saplings to create trail makers. now and it is dead. I thought I had A tree bent to create a trail marker near Jim Turner’s home. better get a picture of it before it is gone as well. from a weed and crouched down They are trail markers. Our to see what was moving on her Indigenous ancestors bent these back. I rubbed the pliable stem trees as saplings to mark special on her back and it was covered trails and to guide them to things with her babies. There were about off the main trail. These people 100 or so. I scraped a few off to were very clever, as they knew see what would happen and they these sign posts would be there just crawled back on. I knelt there for hundreds of years. There are amazed at nature and what she had Blake and Cameron hundreds of these trees around to offer and just then I had a feel- Ontario but not too many are left ing that I was being watched from now that are alive. It is only a mat- behind. As I turned to look around ter of time and all of them will be there, standing there about five feet Dean Lake, Blind River gone forever. could have meant that you were behind me was a coyote. This gave If you happen to see one of these to get off the main trail right there me pause for thought as all sorts of misshaped trees, report it to your and find good water, food or a safe things ran through my mind. local MNO Council and they can place to sleep or hunt. It also could Is it rabid? Is it going to bite me? Jensen family get in touch with people who may have meant that there was very Is it someone’s pet? As it startled be able to protect it. As you can tell tough terrain ahead. I feel blessed me, I startled it with my fast move- from the picture; it is in the shape to see one of these in my lifetime, ment while turning and it backed of a horseshoe or badly carved as the next generation probably up a few feet, but held its ground. harvest slingshot. won’t be so lucky. There is a dia- I figured it is time to get out of submitted by Our ancestors would find a gram of how they bent the saplings there so I stood up, grabbed my Jennifer Jensen bendable sapling. They gen- and a photo of the tree near my bike and started walking down the MNO North Channel Métis Council Secretary tly bent the tree from the middle home roadway. The coyote followed me down towards the ground as far as One other story I have to share for about 50 feet and then turned it would go without cracking and with you is about a large wolf spi- back and ate the spider. I guess t was a beautiful sunny winter Later on that day, I received tied a piece of rawhide around it; der. I was on my bicycle and trav- I was interfering with its lunch. morning, my brother Bobby the call from my brother saying to hold it in that shape. As it grew, elling down a back road that goes Thinking about it later I guess Icalled and wanted to take my Blake shot a moose! Now the work the next year they snugged the through and around a swamp near it was stalking the spider in the son Blake hunting, along with my begins, we got some help from rawhide tighter. Through the fol- my house. weeds and I didn’t notice the coy- brother’s son Cameron. I woke my other family members to help take lowing years after the rawhide rot- I noticed what I thought was ote probably crouching down by son up and said, “Get ready buddy, the moose out from the bush. The ted off, the tree kept its shape and a large mouse run across the road then. your uncle is taking you hunting walk in seemed to take forever grew very big. These were the road ahead of me. It stopped on the I came home and was wondering for a moose!” He jumped out of until we came upon the moose. signs of old; 200 to 300 hundred gravel edge. I got off the bike and what my wife and family would say bed and rounded up his hunting We all took a moment to say thank years ago. slowly walked up to it. What I when I told them about it, but was stuff. As we were walking out the you for the beautiful harvest and For the different tribes, it meant thought was a mouse was a very surprised when they believed me. I door, I looked at my son and said, providing for our families. On that different things, but all the peo- large wolf spider. This particular got on my computer and looked up “I have a good feeling about today” beautiful sunny day my son shot ple in that area knew what that one was a bit bigger than the palm the wolf spider on the internet. It and off we went to my brother’s his moose, which will provide particular tree meant! It was per- of your hand and the legs would said one of its enemies are coyotes. house. Once we arrived I wished for three families. My son was so haps pointing the way to the next have hung over the sides of your I learned something else that them good luck and they did a cer- proud to be able to help and pro- marker to follow a certain trail. It fingers. I picked off a small stem day! emonial smudging before they left. vide for his family.

OBITUARY: Remembering Senator Bob Mckay

...continued from page 24 and self-government, and in 2014 to thank you for your many years courteous demeanor. Bob was (especially for Métis youth): “A he was the recipient of the MNO of dedication to the betterment of always willing to give a leg-up to vision without a plan is just a Suzanne Tardif, the parent Suzanne Rochon-Burnett Volunteer the Métis Nation.” anyone who needed or asked for dream. A plan without vision is representative on the commit- of the Year Award. While Bob’s work on behalf help; there are many examples of just drudgery. But a vision with a tee explained why Bob had been When presenting Bob with of Métis people was truly inspir- him doing so. One example that I plan can change the world.” selected for these prestigious the Award, former MNO Presi- ing, what many appreciated even know first-hand, is that when I got In lieu of flowers, donations awards: “When Senator McKay dent Gary Lipinski stated: “Your more was his warmth and humour. elected to the PCMNO, he gave me may be made to Lakehead Univer- shares his stories, he not only commitment to Métis youth and Until very recently, he was a fix- copies of his prayers because he sity Achievement Fund, Northern helps children and youth under- the Métis community is unprec- ture at every MNO Annual Gen- knew I would need them.” Ontario Medical School, ALS Can- stand an earlier way of life, he also edented. You actively keep Métis eral Assembly (AGA) and when In his final years, Bob was ada or Canadian Lighthouses of helps preserve the right cultural culture alive by sharing our cul- he approached the microphone to afflicted with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Lake Superior or a charity of your history of the Thunder Bay area.” ture and passing on our traditions speak he would always introduce disease). Even faced with this chal- choice will be appreciated. In 2012, Bob received the through the many events that you himself, to everyone’s delight, as lenge, Bob retained his spirit and Queen Elizabeth II Diamond attend. Through your volunteerism Brad Pitt. wrote MNO citizens to express Jubilee Medal that acknowledged you also educate our youth and the MNO Executive Senator Joseph his gratefulness for their kindness his long-term dedication to the general public on what it means to Poitras said “Bob has a real pres- and support. He closed the letter cause of achieving Métis rights be Métis. I personally would like ence and a quiet, dignified and with one of his favourite proverbs