Volume 18 Issue 10 Published monthly by the Union of Ontario Indians - Anishinabek Nation Single Copy: $2.00 December 2006 Complaints could become avalanche OTTAWA (CP) – A wave of sought the input of First Nations Native discrimination complaints people. “We are still dealing with is expected if a bill introduced Dec. the aftermath of Bill C-31, which 13 by the Conservatives is passed. was a result of not having meaning- Indian Affairs Minister Jim ful consultation with First Nations, Prentice wants to repeal a 30-year- including aboriginal women,’’ said old section of the Human Rights Beverley Jacobs, president of the Act that has blocked complaints women’s association. against Ottawa and band councils Assembly national chief Phil acting under the archaic Indian Fontaine called the bill “a recipe Act. for ineffectiveness’’ that will add “First Nations citizens don’t new costs for under-funded bands. have the same rights and remedies Jacobs said her group devel- as other Canadians,’’ Prentice said. oped an 18-month transition plan “We think that’s unacceptable and to help First Nations prepare for we’re prepared to move on it.’’ complaints and incorporate tradi- National native leaders rejected tional, less adversarial ways of re- the bill, however, saying they can’t solving clashes. support what they called a rushed “We didn’t get a response at all VOICES OF THE PEOPLE and unilateral move that would sow from the government.’’ Prentice HEAD VETERAN National Chief Phil Fontaine accepted a quilt from Alice Williams dissent and tension on reserves. said discussions on the issues with Wilson Roberts, Choctaw, to symbolize the voices of the people. The master quilter from Already cash-strapped band both Native groups were “exten- Oklahoma led a grand entry of Curve Lake First Nation put out a call across Canada for sub- councils could be peppered with sive.’’ over 700 dancers into Toron- mission of blocks. Contributions came from men, women, and claims. Allegations of unfair treat- If passed, the bill provides for to’s SkyDome during the pow- children. The quilt was presented to the Assembly of First Na- ment would likely range from a six-month grace period before wow portion of November’s tions during the launch of the Make Poverty History campaign at housing disputes to fi ghts over how it applies to band councils to help Canadian Aboriginal Festival. the Canadian Aboriginal Festival in Toronto’s SkyDome Nov. 24. higher education funds are shared. First Nations get ready. The Cana- Please see pages 8-9. Please see pages 20-21. – Photos by Maurice Switzer Ottawa is also expected to be dian Human Rights Commission targeted for various despised poli- is to work with Native people and cies. Those include Indian Act rules groups during that time. Seminoles buy chain Calder mourned governing status. A Native American IN THE NEWS NEW AIYANSH, BC For years, the Indian Act tribe has bought one NWAC pins show spirit – The Nisga’a Nation stripped thousands of Native wom- Canada en of their Indian status along with of the world’s most “Sisters in Spirit” pins are being sold mourns the passing of Dr. Frank Calder, famous restaurant chains. by the Native Women’s Association its rights and benefi ts when they who will forever be The Seminoles of Florida are of Canada (NWAC) as a fund-raising married non-native men. votes no remembered for the paying Britain’s Rank Group £490 effort to raise awareness about missing Remedial legislation, Bill C- million for the Hard Rock brand Nisga’a “Land Ques- Dr. Frank 31, restored status to those women Aboriginal women in Canada. tion” and the 1973 Calder after the tribal council decided to The offi cial NWAC “Sisters in in 1985. But it did so with a catch: on rights Supreme Court of diversify. Spirit” pins feature a a new Indian Act section stipulated Canada decision that bears his name OTTAWA – First Nations leaders Kash answer? Move south representation of and that established, for the fi rst time, that their children could only pass OTTAWA (CP) – For- grandmother moon that Aboriginal title exists in modern on Indian status if they married an- have expressed disappointment mer Ontario Conserva- in B.C. coast artistic Canadian law. other status Indian. and outrage over Canada’s role in a tive cabinet minister style. Mohawk passes Those who wed non-native Nov. 28 vote that effectively stalls Alan Pope – an adviser The pin is round, BUFFALO, N.Y. – spouses have been denied that abil- consideration of the United Na- to the federal Conser- and coloured in a com- tions Declaration on the Rights of Alan Pope John Mohawk, Ph.D., ity – an exclusion decried by Na- vative government on bination of light and dark Seneca scholar and tive groups as arbitrary and unjust. Indigenous Peoples. Canada voted the fl ood-plagued Kashechewan blue. A youth version has a light blue rib- teacher, has passed The Native Women’s Associa- against adoption of the declaration First Nation – is recommending bon attached. into the spirit world. tion of Canada and the Assembly by the General Assembly after hav- that the community be relocated For more information about the “Sis- He was serving as John Mohawk of First Nations issued a rare joint ing earlier joined Russia as the only to his hometown of Timmins, 450 ters in Spirit” campaign, please call director of indigenous press release denouncing the bill. two members of the new UN Hu- kilometres south of its current loca- NWAC’s Ottawa number toll-free: 1- studies at the Centre for the Americas Both groups stress that human man Rights Council to try to stop tion on the shores of James Bay. at the State University in Buffalo. 800-461-4043. rights must be protected, but they it from moving forward in the ap- dispute the extent to which Prentice proval process. ANISHINABEK EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTE September 2007 programs Quality Education and Training Programs for First Nation Communities NIPISSING NCCD MENTAL HEALTH & ADDICTIONS MUNSEE-DELAWARE On-campus THUNDER BAY – Fort William Site NATIVE EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION SOCIAL SERVICE WORKER (Distance Delivery Programs) P.O. Box 711 MAINTENANCE MANAGEMENT NCW TRADITION ABORIGINAL HEALING NATIVE CARE & COUNSELLING & DEVELOPMENT North Bay, ON P1B 8J8 OFFICE ADMINISTRATION METHODS NATIVE EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION Phone: 705-497-9127 BACHELOR OF ARTS Fax: 705-497-9135 NEWBACHELOR OF ARTS NEW Email: [email protected] Page 2 Anishinabek News December 2006 Anishinabekwe/Women Wheelchair-bound woman Biidabaan falls through funding cracks Healing Centre By Maurice Switzer gammon. “I can’t do all the things Program for status Indians won’t NIPISSING FN – Few people want I like doing.” cover the remainder – they don’t to do housework as much as Kim She’s not complaining, but pay for electronic wheelchairs, 4” x 4.5” Couchie. can’t help but says Kim. They also won’t cover But being confi ned to a wheel- think about the the cost of a prescription for anti- chair by Multiple Sclerosis for fact that her depressants her doctor wrote for the past decade has meant the 37- wheelchair is her months ago. year-old woman can’t even play coming due for “Kim’s always had a real great a friendly game of Scrabble, let replacement next disposition,” says long-time friend alone look after the upkeep in her spring. The As- Cathie Favreau, a regular visitor Couchie Memorial Drive home sisted Devices Kim Couchie who works for the nearby Union without some assistance. program will of Ontario Indians, whose 7th Gen- “My feet would swell up and cover 75% of the eration Charities has been one or- turn blue, and every day my bal- $10,000 price tag, but the federal ganization willing to provide some ance would go – I didn’t even have government’s Uninsured Benefi ts assistance. Now the couple’s many the energy to clean my house,” friends are stepping in to save Kim recalls Kim of the fi rst symptoms and Kirby from falling between the she experienced before being diag- cracks created by the health-care nosed in 1995. “My doctor asked bureaucracy. if I’d heard of MS – or if anyone in Kirby’s Friendship Centre co- the family had it.” worker Gerald Chum is co-ordinat- Next came neurology tests, a ing a series of fund-raisers to cre- painful spinal tap, and two trips ate a kitty to cover the $50-an-hour to Toronto for MRI scans – there costs of providing Kim with visits wasn’t one of the high-tech medi- by home health-care workers. Do- cal machines in North Bay at the nation jars are being set out at the time. Friendship Centre’s popular Friday “It was Progressive Multiple Cathie’s night bingos, and there’s been talk Sclerosis – the worst kind. About fi ve generations about spaghetti suppers and door- eight months later I was in a wheel- Aanii, Boozhoo, Cathie Favreau to-door canvassing in Nipissing chair,” recalls Kim. “It gradually ndishnikaaz. I have been with First Nation. moved up my legs to my torso. the Union Ontario Indians for “We don’t want people to pity Now it affects my arms and fi n- fi ve years. I work in the AHRDA us,” says Kirby, “but we’re sure gers.” (Anishinabek Human Resources grateful for their support.” While Agreement) Department as Before MS, Kim enjoyed do- the AHRDA Assistant. I am a his job does not come with a ben- ing beadwork and, according to member of Nipissing First Nation efi ts package, he appreciates the husband Kirby Mianskum, was a and have lived in North Bay all Friendship Centre providing emer- “pretty good” fancy shawl dancer. my life. My husband’s name is gency support for Kim’s home care “That’s how I met her,” re- Clem McKenzie and we are the whenever he has to travel on busi- members Kirby, whose Poplar proud parents of three beautiful ness.” Singers drum group is one of the children: Robert, 30 -- single, He was planning to bring Kim best known on the Great Lakes gorgeous and he crochets; Addi- along on one trip – to November’s pow-wow circuit. “ Now we’re us- son, 21 – a handsome student of Canadian Aboriginal Festival in Day ing our culture to keep us strong Gaming and Design in Vancou- Toronto, where she could hear the – mentally, physically, emotion- ver; and Kelly, 20 -- our beautiful Poplar Singers and watch some ally, and spiritually.” “baby” daughter and the mother of the country’s best fancy shawl Advertising of our adorable little grandson Financial support is another is- dancers. Unfortunately, Kim broke Joshua who is 7 ½ months old sue. In the past year, Kim – who and trying very hard to walk. her ankle in a fall, and was unable needs to be lifted into and out of to attend. 4” x 9” bed, and requires assistance to get dressed and for personal care – has seen the number of weekly home- care hours she qualifi es for shrink from 37 to 15. “It’s provincial cutbacks,” says Kirby, whose modest salary as an employment counsellor at the North Bay Indian Friendship Centre dis- Day & Night qualifi es the couple from receiving more assistance from either private home health care provider Paramed 4” x 4.5” or Nipissing First Nation’s Health Programs. “They tell you to go to your family for help,” says Kim, but Kirby isn’t supposed to be doing any lifting at all following a seri- ous stroke four years ago. One of her sisters is on disability with a fused back, and the other lives in Blind River. “And because I’m a woman, I don’t feel comfortable with my two boys looking after my personal needs.” “You’ve got to go with the fl ow,” says Kim, whose recreation consists largely of visiting friends with whom her ailing hands no lon- ger allow her to play cards or back- December 2006 Anishinabek News Page 3 Anishinabek Anishinabek News writer Beausoleil wins environmental award planning TORONTO – First Nations En- aang First Nation is surrounded nity. A family from the Aamjiwn- vironmental Activist, Ron Plain by dozens of industrial facilities, aang First Nation recently took for disaster was honoured with the Bob Hunt- an area widely known as ‘chemi- part in Environmental Defence’s By Peggy McGregor er “Damn Fine Activist” Award at cal valley’. study of toxic chemicals in the BEAUSOLEIL FN – About a the annual EcoBunk event hosted “Ron Plain truly deserves this blood of Canadian families. dozen participants gathered at by the Toronto Environmental award. His untiring dedication As a volunteer communica- the new Sports and Recreation Alliance (TEA). and activism is an example for all tions offi cer for the Aamjiwn- Complex on Christian Island As a founding member of of us to follow. Bob Hunter would aang Environment Committee, to begin community dialogue Beausoleil First Nation is devel- the Environment Committee for be proud,” said Dr. Rick Smith, Ron has taken the pollution is- about Emergency Planning. oping its own emergency plan- the Aamjiwnaang First Nation in Executive Director, Environmen- sues faced by his community to On hand to stimulate more ning process. Community mem- Sarnia, Ontario, Ron has led his tal Defence, a national environ- the front pages of newspapers discussion was Larry White, bers attended a presentation by community’s efforts to highlight mental group that has worked from Johannesburg to Perth, from Emergency Measures Manager Larry White, above, Emergency the harm caused by decades of in- with Ron on long-standing issues Glasgow to Seattle. His activ- for Akwesasne First Nation and Measures Manager, Akwesasne dustrial pollution. The Aamjiwn- of toxic pollution in his commu- ism and passion is demonstrated Bill Sluiman, ICE Consulting of First Nation, and Bill Sluiman, through countless speaking en- Pikwanagan. ICE Consulting, Pikwakanagan gagements, workshops, confer- to get some tips. Unlike many communities, – Photo by Marlene Marsden ences and through his regular Akwesasne has been Emergency columns on the environment in Planning for 15 years. Having the Anishinabek News. a plan in place enabled them to alone. Part of the mandate of the The Bob Hunter Award hon- deal strategically with the great Beausoleil First Nation Emer- ours one of the forefathers of the Ice Storm of 1998, which ad- gency Planning committee is to modern environmental move- versely affected the community disseminate information to the ment. Bob Hunter was a found- over a four-day period. Akwe- community so that residents of ing member of Greenpeace and a sasne was without power and Christian Island will be able to long-time activist. He was a pro- immobilized during this time. mobilize the proper human and lifi c writer, news journalist and Consequently, Larry was in a capital resources to reduce and TV personality. Before his death, position to talk about the tools respond to a public emergency. Bob Hunter created this award to and strategies required for emer- Bill Sluiman, a Consultant recognize up-and-coming activ- gency planning which gave the located out of Pikwanagan was ists and “rainbow warriors”. The Christian Island community contracted to facilitate the de- award includes $500. something to ponder. velopment of Beausoleil First “Ron is on the front lines in This initial community in- Nation’s (Christian Island) the fi ght against industrial pollu- formation session on a blustery Emergency Preparedness Plan. tion. The health burdens his com- winter day was opportune as an The Emergency Preparedness munity has suffered are shocking Emergency Plan encompasses Plan, due to be complete in Feb- but Ron’s work brings us all hope severe storms like the one that ruary, 2007, will include plans that it can change,” said Katrina plagued Akwesasne. Christian to effectively handle conditions Ron Plain receives the Bob Hunter Award from Bobbi Hunter in recog- Miller, Co-Executive Director Islanders can certainly relate to related to disasters and severe nition of his environmental activism, including regular columns in the of TEA and fi rst recipient of the this as they had their fair share weather, disease outbreak, ter- Anishinabek News. – Photo by Yvonne Bambrick Hunter Award. of power outages last winter rorism and mass casualties. Scrapbookers MADD asks us to ‘tie one on’ contribute NIPISSING FN – A small quiet demonstration by friends and over $25,000 family members took place near By Shelby King a simple white cross on Highway SUDBURY – They say people 17 near Verner, Ontario, west of starting their own business should North Bay do what they love, and that’s ex- The cross identifi es the loca- actly what Taryn Michel did when tion where John Commanda was she decided to purchase Sandy’s killed four years ago by a man Scrapbooking after being an em- later convicted and jailed for im- ployee for four years. paired driving. Last April, the Michipicoten Karen Commanda, John’s sis- First Nation woman saw the op- ter, spent a weekend in November portunity to combine her love of at a MADD (Mother’s Against scrapbooking and desire to go Drunk Driving Canada display in into business for herself. “I’m really passionate about a North Bay mall telling shoppers scrapbooking because it lets me about the organization’s annual Taryn Michel, owner of Sandy’s Scrapbooking, was one of the organizers and participants in the fourth an- “tie one on” red ribbon campaign. be creative and pass on my sto- nual Crop for the Cure event to raise money for cancer research. Taryn presented the donation on behalf of ry, the story of my life and my 200 participants to Cathy Burns, manager of the Sudbury branch of the Canadian Cancer Society. The fi nal children’s lives, » she says. « tally was over $29,000. The love I feel for my children, my husband and for my family others in this year’s “Crop for a raised over $25,000 in pledges year’s event, the most successful -- I can put the pictures into a Cure” fund-raising event for the for their round-the-clock scrap- in its four-year history. scrapbook to last forever, never Canadian Cancer Society. booking efforts, and they helped Formerly a home business, to be forgotten. For generations She was one of the organiz- raise another $4,000 by paying Sandy’s Scrapbooking now oper- to come they will know their his- ers of the fourth annual event that for on-site massages, manicures, ates at a 120 Durham St. location tory and their family’s past, just drew 180 participants to an Oct. and fees for a digital photography in downtown Sudbury. by looking at the scrapbook that 28-29 scrapbooking marathon at workshop. For more information, contact Elaine Commanda and Nancy I have created, my art! Taryn also the Howard Johnson Hotel that Local Cancer Society spokes- www.sandysscrapbooking.com Goulais at scene near Verner saw a chance to use her passion raised over $29,000 to help sup- person Cathy Burns was “over- and http://www.canadiancancer- where their brother John for scrapbooking as a tool to help port cancer research. Participants whelmed” by the results of this society.org. Commanda was killed by a drunk driver four years ago. Page 4 Anishinabek News December 2006 Maanda ndinendam/Opinion

The Anishinabek News is a monthly publication of the Union of Ontario Indians (UOI). Views expressed are not necessarily the opinion or political those of their families or friends. Some proph- position of the UOI. ecies are frightening in their forecasts of what No portion of this paper, including advertisements, artwork, photos and Ginger always will become of this planet and her people if we editorial content may be reproduced without written permission of the Anishi- nabek News Editor or UOI Executive. do not soon mend our ways. Readers are invited to submit letters, articles, and photos for publication. Please include your name, address and telephone number on all material leaves some But there are still more people trying to do submitted. All submissions will be reviewed for publication based on priority of interest and edited for clarity of thought, taste, brevity and legal implications. good things in the world than the opposite – they Remuneration will be paid for submissions only if a written agreement with the just don’t get as much attention. That’s why it Editor is made prior to publication. in his bowl was wonderful to see the North Bay Nugget use as their top story last week the collection of 115 Editor: Maurice Switzer By Maurice Switzer Christmas gift packages for Innu youngsters in Contributors: Holly Brodhagen, Cindy Crowe, Cherie Dimaline, Labrador by students of Nbissing Secondary Rick Garrick, Doug George-Kanentiio, Our power went out a few hours after we learned School. It is far more important for people to Perry McLeod-Shabogesic, Natalie Papulkas, that yet another Hydro executive had just been Deanna Therriault know that generosity and kindness are alive and given a hefty severance package. well in the world than about Britney Spears’ lat- Editorial Board: Fred Bellefeuille, Les Couchie, Cathie Favreau est nightclub escapades. So there we were, breaking out the fl ashlights Production: Deb Sullivan and preparing to fi re up the propane barbecue Co-ordinator: Priscilla Goulais For most of the past year, my wife and I to make our morning toast while Tom Parkin- have been caring for a sweet little orange cat son was winging his way back to Australia with Telephone: (705) 497-9127 Toll Free: 1-877-702-5200 we call Ginger. He has a bib of white hair, and Fax: (705) 497-9135 e-mail: [email protected] 3.2 million Ontario tax dollars in his wallet. I four white boots, and a funny little moustache pictured him clinking champagne glasses with a Anishinabek News P.O. Box 711, Nipissing First Nation, he inherited from his father, who we also used seatmate in fi rst class, chirping: “Oy, mate – I North Bay, ON P1B 8J8 to feed. We cannot have Ginger in our home for really stuck it to those silly buggers!” health reasons, but we watch over him like a pair of mother hens. We have also been informed that senior We think that this is Ginger’s fi rst winter managers of the prov- outside, and we can see him shiver in the cold, ince’s Children’s Aid and hear him scratch on our front door when he Societies are enjoy- Publishing Criteria wants a bowl of Whiskas or to come into the en- ing rides in $50,000 GOAL trance for a blast of warm air. We are so con- To publish a quality newspaper and related publications de- luxury cars and mem- cerned about his welfare that we are taking him signed to foster pride and share knowledge about Anishinabek berships in expensive to a vet for a checkup, after which we are hand- current affairs, culture, goals, and accomplishments. clubs using funds that ing him over to a caring couple who can provide are intended to make a warm and welcoming home. OBJECTIVES life better for foster To provide information that refl ects the Creator’s four original children. gifts to the Anishinabek: I have become a fascinated observer of the Maurice Switzer habits of birds and animals, and I notice that Gin- Respect: To welcome diversity and encourage a free exchange And it says here that ger – no matter how ravenously hungry he might of opinions that may differ without being disagreeable. Fair members of Ontario’s be – never completely cleans out the morsels in and humourous comments are welcomed, but not ridicule or provincial legislature want to vote themselves his dish. He always leaves some untouched, to personal attacks. pay raises. Why not? Their measly $88,000 sal- the great delight of “Blackie”, another stray we ary seems a paltry sum for all the good work Honesty: Debwewin – speaking the truth – is the cornerstone suspect is his paramour. of our newspaper’s content. they’re doing managing the province’s power generation and child-care services, not to men- Ginger never takes more than he needs, and Sharing: Providing opportunities for people from the four tion a lottery program that rewards ticket-sellers is very content with what he has. corners of the Anishinabek Nation to tell stories and record almost as often as ticket-buyers. achievements, and to keep our citizens informed about activi- ties of the Union of Ontario Indians. That’s more than I can say for a lot of people, We are entering the season to be jolly, but it including Tom Parkinson, late of Hydro One. Strength: To give a voice to the vision of the Anishinabek Na- seems a whole lot easier to be jovial these days if tion that celebrates our history, culture and language, pro- you’re in an executive suite at a Crown Corpora- May you fi nd everything you need to be hap- motes our land, treaty, and aboriginal rights, and supports the tion or have a Queen’s Park corner offi ce, than if py under your Christmas tree or Hannukah bush, development of healthy and prosperous communities. you’re slinging beer for $6.75 an hour, or stack- and may you also fi nd opportunities to share ing Big Macs for $7.25 (no tips allowed). your wealth with others. NOTE: The Editor reserves the right to edit all submissions for brevity, clarity, and suitability for publication. All formal com- I was thumbing through a copy of The Hol- ments and complaints must be addressed to Editorial Board c/o low Tree – Herb Nabigon’s 120-pager about his Anishinabek News. struggles to stop letting alcohol interfere with his Maurice Switzer is a citizen of the Missis- life. The booze thrived on the Spanish Residen- saugas of Alderville First Nation. He serves as tial School graduate’s self-destructiveness and director of communications for the Union of low self-esteem, and nearly killed him. But his Ontario Indians, and editor of the Anishinabek redemption through traditional Native teachings News. Advertising & News Deadlines enabled him to understand what is really impor- The current circulation of the Anishinabek News is 10,000 copies, tant in this world. with 9,000 mailed and 1,000 distributed at various events. DEADLINES FOR JAN/FEB ISSUE “The Hollow Tree,” he writes in his introduc- Advertising tion, “is a metaphor for what Western culture has Bookings: December 20 become, an empty shell with no substance. That Final Art: December 23 greed and selfi shness rule and that we have little News regard for our neighbours demonstrates how un- News submissions: December 20 balanced we are as a people.” Scheduled printing: December 27 For more information or inquiries to the Anishinabek News The waning days of another year are a good related to advertising and circulation issues please call our new time to take stock of what we each do to make toll-free number: 1-800-463-6408 the world a better place for the next seven gen- erations. If we believe what we hear on the news and read in the papers, most people are only CANADA POST CUSTOMER #1905929 AGREEMENT #0040011021 concerned with their own interests, never mind December 2006 Anishinabek News Page 5 Maanda ndinendam/Opinions Time fl ies when nothing being done about RCAP By Chief Isadore Day stubborn problems.” The second objective spoke Thirdly, Gathering Strength after the RCAP report and the fed- How time fl ies when nothing is One year after the commis- about establishing supporting ar- aimed to develop new fi scal re- eral government’s response, pov- getting done. sion released its fi ndings, Cana- rangements for self-government. lations. But do current fi scal ar- erty not only still exists in First The report of the Royal Com- da’s response was spelled out in But is self-government being rangements between the federal Nations – it is getting worse. mission on Aboriginal People a document called, “Gathering supported in government and First Nations The United Nations Human (RCAP) is a piece of Canada’s Strength: Canada’s Aboriginal a meaning- provide true capacity for change? Development Index ranked First history that was 10 years old in Action Plan”, which had four ful way today This spring Auditor-General Nations in Canada 76th out of November. Our First Nation lead- main objectives. with access to Sheila Fraser slammed the Cana- 174 nations while Canada sits in ers, for the most part, say that it The fi rst objective talked resources, and dian government for its neglect 8th place.. more than falls short of reaching about renewing partnerships. We is it achiev- to deal with real change. Out of Canada has spent a lot of its resolve and that the current might ask: What is the current re- able? When 37 key recommendations made money on studies, reports, and Conservative government has lationship like between First Na- Gathering by her offi ce since 2001, only 22 processes that yield nothing but not even blinked to recognize the tions and the current Conservative Strength was were acted upon, and the remain- huge expenditures and unrealized moral and legal obligations that Government? It has quashed the fi rst released ing 15 involved key issues criti- expectations. They are gathering Chief Isadore Day were identifi ed in the commis- Kelowna Accord, a federal-pro- the Depart- cal to improving the fi scal reali- dust instead of ensuring that First sion’s fi ndings. vincial commitment to honour the ment of Indian and Northern Af- ties faced by First Nations. Fraser Nations are gathering strength. The Royal Commission on Crown’s obligations to First Na- fairs seemed to realize that the was highly critical about weighty Aboriginal People was appointed tions that represented an oppor- archaic and paternalistic Indian reporting burdens imposed by the on August 26, 1991 and submitted tunity to achieve what was prom- Act needed to be dismantled. But federal bureaucracy on First Na- Chief Isadore Day, Wiindaw- its report on November 21, 1996. ised in “Gathering Strength”. The when former INAC minister Rob- tions, observing that they merely tegowinini, Serpent River First In the exact words of the commis- Kelowna Accord represented a ert Nault tried to impose a fake served to create more work with- Nation, is a member of the An- sion, this process was carried out true partnership between First solution called the “First Nations out achieving any results. ishinabek Nation Leadership to “restore justice to the relation- Nations and governments that Governance Act,” First Nations Finally, Gathering Strength Council. More information about ship between Aboriginal and non- would begin to eradicate the in- leaders fl atly rejected its imposed identifi ed the need to support the the Making Poverty History cam- Aboriginal people in Canada and justices that create poverty in our approach, lacking meaningful development of strong First Na- paign and Canada’s RCAP report to propose practical solutions to communities. consultation with our peoples. tion communities. But ten years card appear on pages 20 and 21. Government Arrests won’t end insincere Editor: Mohawk smuggling I have been following the By Doug George-Kanentiio government we were split into events of the Conservative With all due respect to Minister equal sections when authorities Party’s position on this very of Public Safety Stockwell Day, in London conceded to American important national issue (Unit- the breakup of a dope and tobacco demands and drew an interna- ed Nations Declaration on the smuggling ring operating out of tional border through the heart of Rights of Indigenous Peoples). my home reserve of Akwesasne Akwesasne. As hard as I try to put the past will not make much of a dent in We protested vigorously then behind, and allow this new mi- the midnight runs across the bor- but to no avail. Now restricted nority government to convince der. to living on a small reservation me that it is sincere in its re- While there has been an in- some of our people elected to use marks to the effect that it wants crease in the number of arrests our unique geography by carrying to improve the lives of Aborig- stemming from smuggling ac- goods back and forth across the inal peoples, recent and ongo- tivities, Minister Day ignores a St. Lawrence. basic human motivation: so long During the War of 1812 Amer- ing events have convinced me as there are obscene profi ts to be ican troops stationed in northern that this government is intent made carting contraband to and New York complained bitterly on continuing with its under- from the United States, people that the farmers in the region were lying agenda of systemic rac- – not only Mohawks – will take selling their harvests to the Brit- ism and assimilation policies the risk. ish soldiers across the border. The towards Aboriginal Peoples in Smuggling along the border Brits paid in good silver versus in- Canada. for Natives and non-natives is fl ated US script. Doug Dokis nothing new. Practically from The easiest way then, as it Alberta Director, the day the border was drawn is now, was to hire Mohawks to First Peoples Party between the US and Upper and carry the harvested crops through Lower Canada goods, both legiti- Akwesasne. mate and otherwise, have found The solution is simple: em- their way to whatever market paid power the Mohawks to control the highest prices. traffi cking through Akwesasne. Caledonia judge denied confl ict Akwesasne has been a Mo- Begin by working with the legiti- By Julius Melnitzer aboriginal representatives. hawk community from time im- mate Mohawk leaders to establish for Law Times “It made for a very weird process that was most memorial. Disease and warfare a free trade network in which cer- Somehow the fact that Ontario Superior Court Jus- unhelpful to building understanding.” caused our ancestors to retreat tain products, such as tobacco, can tice David Marshall owns properties in the Hal- As it turned out, Marshall’s interests were raised from the St. Lawrence Valley to be transported from one Native dimand Tract, which is part of the Caledonia land only briefl y by lawyers for Six Nations at various their largest towns located along nation to another. Help create, in claims dispute, has got lost in the woodwork. stages of the proceedings. the Mohawk River in upstate effect, a Native North American But Marshall’s interest wasn’t lost on former “When we got to the Court of Appeal, other New York but once our popula- Free Trade Act. Regulate the to- Ontario Premier David Peterson, now chair of To- things were occupying people’s minds, because tion rebounded we reestablished a bacco trade and the criminal ele- ronto’s Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP. At the be- by that time everybody was pretty well agreed that community in an area which had ment is removed. hest of Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty, Peterson Marshall did not have the power to put an end to ne- not only fertile soils along with Acknowledge that the Mo- an abundance of wildlife but was hawks have the freedom to form spent six weeks in May and June negotiating the gotiations,” says Dennis Brown of the Crown Law strategically located astride the our own indigenous government. removal of four road barricades erected by parties Offi ce, who represents the province. main waterway into the continen- Once we have full jurisdiction to the dispute. It may well be that Six Nations’ counsel con- tal interior. over our land, with one set of laws Marshall’s holdings, of which he has never cluded that a recusal request was not meritorious or After the conclusion of the applicable to all residents, we can made a secret, didn’t help the negotiations. made a tactical decision that the issue was no lon- American Revolution a new real- move swiftly to discipline those “The Natives didn’t feel that the courts were ger worth pursuing. But the outstanding question is ity was forced upon us. Where among us currently exploiting a dealing with them fairly,” Peterson told Law Times. whether the administration of justice can afford to we had been a united community tangle of competing laws, police “Marshall’s proprietary interests were a big politi- leave questions as to judicial impartiality lingering under the authority of a single forces and government agencies. cal issue that sure as hell were repeatedly raised by in the public mind. Page 6 Anishinabek News December 2006

Merchants learn about Native crafts sell well Aboriginal customers before Christmas By Rick Garrick “Boozhoo is the way we say hel- By Rick Garrick THUNDER BAY – A small business lo in Ojibwe country,” Kanutski said, THUNDER BAY – A local Pre-Christmas Aboriginal Fine Arts and Crafts seminar focused on improving ser- noting that the word is derived from Show and Sale is not only about making sales; it is also about making vice to a big customer base. the name of Nanaboozhoo, the being contacts. The Earn and Grow Aboriginal responsible for creating everything Derek Harper, an artist from the fl y-in community of Keewaywin Business seminar was staged during in Ojibwe/Anishinabe country here First Nation, went home with a signifi cant contract to design a logo for October’s Small Business Week, and on Turtle Island. “When we say Boo- a Thunder Bay business. “The owner asked (Harper) to design a logo for attracted over 60 participants. The zhoo, we are starting off our conver- his karate school,” says John Ferris, a Thunder Bay artist originally from session was designed “to create a di- sation with the utmost respect.” Constance Lake First Nation and coordinator/director of the Aboriginal alogue between Kanutski then explained that Artworks Group of Northern Ontario (AAGNO), which organized the late- Aboriginal and many Aboriginal people are not October arts and crafts show. “I got contacts too, a lot of people took my non-aboriginal comfortable saying goodbye, and card. That’s how I get my business.” Ferris, who sold an eagle painting for people,” said therefore they will just hang up the $900 during the show, also does a lot of family portraits and special con- Royden Potvin, phone when they are fi nished talking tracts, such as the painting of “The Healing Path” he did this past summer general manager without saying goodbye, a manner on a large tipi located at the Thunder Bay Correctional Centre. The fi rst of Thunder Bay which most non-aboriginals fi nd very Aboriginal arts and crafts show at Thunder Bay’s Intercity Mall was a suc- Ventures, Thun- disturbing. “When you say goodbye, cess for many of the 20 or so Aboriginal artists and craftspeople. der Bay’s com- Ron Kanutski that means you’re never going to see Ernest Bose, who now lives in Grand Portage, Minnesota, does his munity futures them again,” Kanutski said. “That Ernest Bose works on a beaded bracelet during the Pre-Christ- beadwork as a hobby, usually completing a piece in a couple of days. development corporation. “Over the means you’re going to die.” mas Aboriginal Fine Arts and “When I was growing up, I used to make crafts for myself,” Bose says. past years, we’ve noticed a rise in the Kanutski also noted that many of Crafts Show and Sale in Thun- “My grandmother and the older people were doing it. I want to keep it Aboriginal population in the city and the older people from northern First der Bay’s Intercity Mall. alive.” northwestern Ontario.” Nation communities do not speak The Aboriginal population is the English, or only to a limited degree, organizers of the seminar. The skits fastest-growing population in north- and that for most of those First Na- explored waiting line issues, custom- ern Ontario, and currently accounts tions people who do speak English, it er service issues, customer surveil- for about 25 per cent of Thunder is their second language. lance issues and Aboriginal employ- Ontario School Bay’s population during the school “I always try to speak the lan- ment issues. year. guage,” Kanutski said. “It shows Many of the seminar participants Ron Kanutski, a mental health/ that you are trying to break down the noted that Aboriginal people are ac- addictions counsellor from Thunder walls.” counting for a larger share of their of Masonry Bay and a Lake Helen band mem- A series of skits, created by lo- business as the Aboriginal population ber, began the seminar by suggesting cal playwright Marianne Jones and grows within Thunder Bay, and they the use of the Anishinabe expression played by a variety of actors, “ex- want that trend to continue. 4” x 2” “Boozhoo” as an excellent way for plored some of the issues First Na- “If Aboriginal people do well, we business people to begin a conversa- tions people encounter in the com- will all do well,” said Bruce Hyer, a tion with Aboriginal customers. munity,” said Lois Nuttall, one of the small business. Post-maker piles up awards By Rick Garrick ready secured.” WABIGOON LAKE FN – Multiple- Although the goal is to employ award winner WLON Distributing as many First Nations community Ltd. is not resting on its laurels. members as possible due to their “We’re partnering with Pikangi- high unemployment levels, the mills kum First Nation, Eagle Lake First will not accept any applicants who Nation and Wood Tech Group, a do not have a Grade 12 education. forest company Favelle is urging potential employ- from Finland,” ees to enroll in Grade 12 upgrading says Terry Fa- programs. velle, Wabigoon The CAMSC Business Achieve- Lake Ojibway ment Awards, held Oct. 12 in Toron- Nation band to, and the NADF Neechee Achieve- councillor and ment Awards, held on Oct. 25 in ANCU president of Timmins, both celebrated WLON WLON Dis- Distributing’s success in increasing Terry Favelle tributing, the its product lines from fi ve to 19 and 6” x 6” wholly band-owned company that sales by 105 per cent over the past won this year’s Canadian Aborigi- two years. nal and Minority Supplier Council WLON Distributing was incor- Small Business of the Year Award porated in 2004, currently employs and Nishnawbe Aski Development two full-time and one part-time Fund Neechee Achievement Award. staff, and has received funding from “We’re turning sod as soon as the Aboriginal Business Canada, ven- snow clears next spring.” ture capital from the Nishnawbe The four partners are planning to Aski Development Fund and busi- build three mills in northwestern On- ness loans from the banks. tario, in Wabigoon Lake, Eagle Lake Favelle explains that WLON and Red Lake, a community located Distributing’s success is due to its about 100 km southeast of Pikangi- focus on fi ve different areas, the for- kum, and a main offi ce in Wabigoon estry development, wild rice bars, Lake. The mills will produce value environmentally-friendly cleaning added products, including laminated products, IT solutions and extreme post and beam timbers, for the Eu- outer apparel. ropean and Asian markets, and will “We have developed an organic employ about 300 employees. version of our wild rice bar,” Favelle “Our wood supply is already in says, “and our jackets are rated for place,” Favelle says. “From our own 109 below zero. They’re as light as allocation and other limits we’ve al- a feather.” December 2006 Anishinabek News Page 7 Thunderbirds try to Dnakmigziwin/Sports improve on their fi nish By Natalie Papulkas Mohawk, Chinese, Japanese, Euro- TORONTO – Canadians call it their pean and Israeli heritage. game, their national pastime. But All tournament games feature for many First Nation communities, strictly non-contact hockey, with hockey isn’t just a hobby: it’s a way zero tolerance for fi ghting or racial of life. slurs. “Hockey has been a focal point Last year, the Thunderbirds hit for many in these communities,” the ice with 15 other teams from says Kevin Wassegijig, general the Italian, Portuguese, Black, Finn- manager of the First Nation Thun- ish, Greek, Chinese, Serbian, South derbirds, one of 20 men’s teams Asian, Croatian, Macedonian, Pol- participating in the second Canadian ish, Russian, Irish, Japanese, and Multicultural Hockey Champion- Korean communities. Teams are ships. “It gives you a chance to responsible for selecting their own cheer for your community and be players to compete in the tourna- proud of who you are.” ment. Puck eludes Thunderbirds goaltender Kevin Wassegijic during last year’s championship game loss to Irish The Thunderbirds were runners- Kevin Wassegijig says his team Shamrocks during the inaugural Canadian Multicultural Hockey Championships. up to the Irish Shamrocks in the is “very excited” to play in the inaugural 2005 tournament, which event, noting a history of regional other First Nation communities. He says Native players like for- teams can “help break down the ste- drew over 10,000 spectators. This and provincial hockey champion- “My interest grew from be- mer Toronto Maple Leaf Captain reotypes.” When our players interact year’s event is expected to attract ships for First Nations communities ing fan, to having the opportu- George Armstrong, current New with other participants, they see double that many to games at the all across Ontario. He began orga- nity to play in these tournaments,” York Islanders coach Ted Nolan, and how much in common we all have Ted Reeve and Scarborough Arena nizing tournaments among different says Wassegejig, director of First future NHL stars like Jordan Tootoo with one another.” Gardens, Dec. 27-30. communities in 1997 and says that Nations Relations for Casino and Jonathan Cheechoo have been And while this tournament of- This year’s tournament will also tournaments in his community of Rama on Mnjikaning First Na- a “real inspiration” for First Nation fers a chance for communities to feature a women’s division, involv- Wikwemikong have helped to devel- tion near Orillia. “I merely wanted people. He says that, like most Ca- celebrate their diversity, Wassegi- ing teams with players of Ojibwe, op and foster “great rivalries” with this type of event to continue.” nadian hockey players, First Nation jig also sees it as an opportunity to However, while hockey is a source people dream of playing in the NHL demonstrate their pride as Canadi- of fun and camaraderie for Canadi- and winning the Stanley Cup. “With ans. “It’s a great place to live,” he ans from coast to coast, Wassegijic the disparity in living conditions be- says. “That’s why, as First Nations explains its importance to the First tween First Nations and mainstream people, we haven’t gone anywhere Nation community goes beyond the Canada, these dreams can seem unat- else.” ice. “The game provides a distrac- tainable,” he explains. “These guys The Canadian Multicultural tion from the many social and health have lived the dream and proved it Hockey Championships are spon- challenges that exist in these com- can be a reality.” sored by the Canadian Ethnic Media munities,” he says. He also says Native hockey Association.

Little NHL Gaggi Communications 4” x 8.75” 6” x 7.5” Page 8 Anishinabek News December 2006

Booth bait for fi shing inquiries Community liaison offi cer Perry McLeod-Shabogesic manned the Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre (A/OFRC) display booth during the Canadian Aboriginal Festival in Toronto Nov. 24-26. Thousands of visitors passed the dozens of displays, picking up information on various aboriginal organizations, shopping for Christmas gifts from Native vendors, and viewing cultural displays like the largest annual gathering of pow- wow dancers in Canada. – Photo by Perry McLeod-Shabogesic

Grand Chief in grand entry John Beaucage, Grand Council Chief of the Anishinabek Nation, carries the nation’s Eagle Staff in the grand entry at November’s Canadian Aboriginal Festival in Toronto’s SkyDome. Head Veteran Wilson Roberts of Oklahoma led a procession of 1,000 veterans and dancers into the dance arena. – Photo by Maurice Switzer

Littlest dancer Jingle dress dancer Clarity Healing dress Smoke, 18 months, may have Elly Antone, an HIV/AIDS educator for the Association of Iroquois and been the tiniest of nearly 700 Allied Indians, shows Conrad Antone, Oneida of the Thames, a doll dancers participating in the Festival pioneers wearing a jingle dress of condom wrappers. The doll was part of a pow-wow portion of the 2006 Catherine Cornelius, Oneida of the Thames, and Ron Robert, Metis display by the First Nations HIV/AIDS Education Circle at November’s Canadian Aboriginal Festival. (Mohawk, French), have been involved in all 13 editions of the Cana- Canadian Aboriginal Festival in Toronto. The jingle dress is regarded by Clarity lives in Peterborough dian Aboriginal Festival in Toronto’s SkyDome. Cornelius served as Anishinaabe as a way to pray for healing through dance. with mom Stephanie Pangowish. executive director and Robert as program director for the 2006 festival, – Photo by Maurice Switzer – Photo by Maurice Switzer the largest Aboriginal gathering in Canada. – Photo by Cherie Dimaline

UOI booth busy Fawn Pettifer, Tutor Field Replacement Offi cer with the Union of Ontario Indians’ Anishinabek Educational Institute, answers inquiries from one Getting the FASD facts of the hundreds of people who stopped by the UOI booth at the 2006 Colleen Mendes, Wahta Mohawks, visited the booth providing information on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Canadian Aboriginal Festival. Many of the questions related to the 1764 being staffed by Laurie McLeod-Shabogesic at the Canadian Aboriginal Festival. Laurie, an FASD educator Great Lakes Treaty Covenant Chain wampum belt in the foreground. with the Union of Ontario Indians Health Unit, uses dolls to illustrate FASD symptoms. The AEI is designed to meet the unique educational and training needs – Photo by Maurice Switzer of Anishinabek communities. – Photo by Maurice Switzer December 2006 Anishinabek News Page 9 Canadian Aboriginal Festival

Andrea Menard weighed down with CAMA trophies Cover girl Menard cleans up at CAMA By Cherie Dimaline With CP fi les TORONTO – Putting Andrea Menard on the cover of this year’s offi cial program for the Canadian Aboriginal Festival proved to be prophetic. Not only was the Gemini-nominated actress the co-host for the Ca- nadian Aboriginal Music Awards with Cochrane mayor Lawrence Mar- tin, but Menard took home three of the 19 trophies up for grabs. “Simple Steps” earned the Saskatoon-based Metis artist honours for best folk album and album of the year, and the cut “100 Years” was chosen best single. “I was up for Best Folk Album three years ago and I had a jazz album,” Menard quipped in her acceptance speech. “So I’m happy to actually have a folk album this year!” After Menard’s third trip to the podium, co-host Lawrence Martin yelled: “Hey, when am I getting an award? I’m working here too you know!” In October, Menard won the outstanding aboriginal recording award at the Western Canadian Music Awards in Winnipeg. Menard, whose acting credits include “Moccasin Flats” and the one-woman stage play “The Velvet Devil”, lost the title of best female artist to Toronto-based actress-singer Tamara Podemski, who also won for best songwriter. Each had received four CAMA nominations. A rousing performance by Susan Aglukark opened the awards. The Inuit singer also picked up the award for best music video for “I Will Return.” Also performing were best group winners Eagle & Hawk, the modern sounds of Intellifunk, and the more traditional beats of M’Girl. Joseph Naytowhow from Sturgeon Lake First Nation took to the stage to accept the Keeper of Traditions award, an honour set aside for an individual who has dedicated their career to the study, teaching, education and continuance of Aboriginal traditions and music. Joseph travels relentlessly to spread knowledge and understanding of his Cree culture. He accepted his trophy and sang a traditional song for the audi- ence. Later he spoke about his passion for teaching. “My father spoke about the importance of youth. So I make that my priority, teaching the youth.” Germaine Langan took home the Lifetime Contribution to Aborigi- nal Music Award. The Cree grandmother is the founding member of the Aboriginal Arts and Culture Celebrations Society. Originally from the Muscowpetung First Nation of northern Saskatchewan, Langan con- tinues to organize the two-day event in Vancouver. “I would like to dedicate this award to my grandchildren and my three children. I would like to remind them and all children to follow their dreams (because) dreams do come true.” Festival organizers Ron Robert and Catherine Cornelius introduced a Maori music industry professional who announced that the fi rst-ever Maori Music Awards would be taking place Deb. 21, 2007 in New Zea- land, using the CAMA awards as a template. The New Zealand Maori Dance Theatre took to the stage and wowed the crowd with a show-closing performance of their traditional dance styles. Highlights of the 2006 CAMA show were to be broadcast on CHUM television stations in the new year. Page 10 Anishinabek News December 2006 Masinaigan/Books GoodMinds moves all 3,000 volumes to SkyDome booth By Rick Garrick guest authors at the festival have TORONTO – Jeff Burnham’s included the likes of Thomas King, GoodMinds.com bookstore fea- Drew Hayden Taylor, Lee Maracle tured even more Aboriginal titles and Larry Loyie. at this year’s Canadian Aboriginal “It’s fun, yet it’s a lot of work Festival. setting up,” Burnham says, noting “It’s our major showcase that he and his staff are usually kept throughout the year,” says Burn- busy packing books, CD-ROMs, ham, president of the online Ab- music CDs, videos, audiocassettes original bookstore, which is locat- and educational kits on Monday, ed on Six Nations territory at 188 Tuesday and part of Wednesday, Mohawk St. in Brantford. “We are driving over to the Skydome festi- expanding to 12 booths this year.” val on Wednesday evening and un- Along with the wide selection packing and setting up until about Hon. James K. Bartleman, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario and a citizen of Mnjikaning First Nation, was of Aboriginal titles that he brings midnight on Thursday. “We’ll be signing copies of the four books he has authored during the Canadian Aboriginal Festival in Toronto. Jeff with him to the SkyDome, Burn- ready Friday morning.” Burnham, president of GoodMinds.com on-line aboriginal bookstore looks on. ham also provides an opportunity Burnham brings just about ev- for Aboriginal authors to meet ery title he has in stock – over 3,000 then drive back to the bookstore in bookstore. All of the bookstore’s 2,000 sq. ft. early in the new year, the public and sign their books. volumes – and orders in extra cop- Brantford, where the truck will be titles are searchable by grade level, increase the number of publishers This year’s headliner was Lt. Gov. ies of his most popular selections. unloaded on Monday. subject, nation, author’s name and they carry, expand into the U.S. James K. Bartleman, who chatted “We try to have what people are Burnham fi rst opened the Good- title on the website, and available market, and look into carrying Ab- with visitors to the GoodMinds dis- looking for,” he says. “That’s why Minds.com bookstore in 2000, af- for online purchase using the major original publishers from New Zea- play, and signed copies of his latest we have such a good selection.” ter many educators and librarians credit cards and US and Canadian land and Australia as well as ship- title, “Raisin Wine: a Boyhood in a All of Burnham’s titles are put began commenting that there was a purchase orders. ping some of their titles to the two Different Muskoka.” on display by subject, with some need for an Aboriginal resource site All the titles, except the music Pacifi c countries. Herb Nabigon, an Elder and signage describing the subject ar- after purchasing the Great Peace CDs, are screened in-house for fac- Burnham will also look at Ab- Laurentian University faculty eas, allowing many customers to CD-ROM, which Burnham had re- tual accuracy, community accep- original books that are brought to member, was signing copies of his browse without any assistance. leased in 1999. tance, stereotypes and the inclusion their attention for sale in the book- newly-released “The Hollow Tree: Once the festival is over on Since then, Burnham has in- of sacred material before they are store, if it passes the screening pro- Fighting Addiction with Traditional Sunday, Burnham and his assis- creased his staff to fi ve employ- stocked. cess. Native Healing.” tants usually repack the remaining ees and now stocks about 3,000 Burnham’s future goals are to “Just send us the book so we Over the past few years Jeff’s titles into the large rental truck and to 4,000 titles in his 1,500 sq. ft. expand within the same building to can take a look at it,” he says. Comic book characters convey traditional Anishinabek teachings By Rick Garrick working on a second book, Adventures of Rabbit and TORONTO – The grandson of renowned Elder Art Bear Paws: The Voyagers, which is based on the Solomon is passing along traditional Anishinabek Grandfather Teaching of Bravery (Aakdehewin). teachings in his own way. Previews of both books are posted on Little Spirit Chad Solomon, a sequential artist from Henvey Bear Production’s website, www.rabbitandbearpaws. Inlet First Nation who now lives in Toronto, recently com, where Adventures of Rabbit and Bear Paws is published a 32-page graphic novel, Adventures of Rab- available for online purchase at $9.95, along with a bit and Bear Paws: The Sugar Bush, which is based on variety of Rabbit and Bear Paws posters, autographed Respect (Mnaadendmowin), one of the Seven Grand- comic strips and t-shirts. The book is also available at father teachings. select retail and comic book stores. “I started developing the idea fi ve years ago,” Solomon received an Aboriginal Business Canada Solomon says. “I spent the fi rst four years looking at contribution grant to help with the production and mar- everything, searching within the traditional stories for keting of Adventures of Rabbit and Bear Paws. something that is positive for the youth of today.” “I received the full 60 per cent ABC contribution In 2005, Solomon founded Little Spirit Bear Pro- grant,” Solomon says. “They believe in my project.” ductions and began working with co-writer Christopher Solomon, who was originally scheduled to attend Meyer, co-artist Julie Pickering and his Aboriginal El- the Frankfurt book fair in Germany but had to cancel ders to produce a weekly humourous adventure comic because of printing delays, is now planning to put the strip, Rabbit and Bear Paws, of which Adventures of travel expense money into other marketing ideas. Rabbit and Bear Paws is a compilation. “It has cost me in potential advertising and poten- “We fi rst submitted the comic strip to the Anishi- tial revenue,” he says. “But it might be even better next nabek News,” Solomon says, adding that in addition to year. The book buyers from wholesale companies look the Anishinabek News, Rabbit and Bear Paws is also at you more seriously if you have a number of different published online at www.saymag.com, www.ayn.ca, titles under the same company. By this time next year www.nativeyouthmagazine.com and nativevillage.org. we should have completed at least three books in the Solomon is also working to syndicate the comic strip series.” to other publications. Many of the buyers also prefer to buy series of “We’re talking with First Nations Drum to do a test books that are packaged together. run in their newspaper,” he says. “We made the front “You make your best numbers by having a variety page of their October issue.” of titles available for the buyers,” Solomon says. Solomon has also licensed Adventures of Rabbit Solomon is also looking to offer translated versions and Bear Paws in a non-exclusive deal to Scholastic of the Rabbit and Bear Paws series for sale in Europe, Books, who will be offering it in their school cata- in addition to possibly developing a couple of other logues, school book clubs and book fairs in 2007, and book ideas; if those book ideas take off, he plans to Author Chad Solomon reads The Adventures of Rabbit and Bear is looking into the possibilities of the IPod market. hire more employees in addition to the four employees Paws with Lauren Bruyns, 9, a Grade 4 student at Barrie’s Maplev- “We break it down panel by panel,” Solomon says. already working at Little Spirit Bear Productions. iew Heights School. The Henvey Inlet FN writer met hundreds of “Their viewing screen is only so big.” “A lot of people really enjoy the comics,” Solomon youngsters on Education Day during November’s Canadian Aborigi- Solomon’s goal is to produce a graphic novel for says, noting the comments of one Inuit girl in particular. nal Festival in Toronto’s SkyDome. each of the Seven Grandfather teachings; he’s already “She really liked the book. She couldn’t put it down.” December 2006 Anishinabek News Page 11 Masinaigan/Books Writer living dream By Rick Garrick and with commercial fi shermen THUNDER BAY –“If you have to earn a living as he brought up a dream, make it happen.” his family. That’s the advice of 73-year- “After my time at residential old Cree writer Larry Loyie, who school, I went on the trapline fi rst dreamed of writing at the age with my grandmother,” Loyie of 12 and eventually saw his fi rst says. “That kept my traditional book published four years ago. way of life intact.” “When I was in residential Loyie’s fi rst book, As Long school – while I was in the hos- as the Rivers Flow, was based pital – I saw an article written on his last traditional summer by Ernest Hemingway,” Loyie before he went to residential says. “I thought, ‘I’d like to be school. Published in 2002, it has a writer.’” since been recognized with two Although Loyie didn’t fi nd awards: the 2003 Norma Fleck an opportunity to begin writing Award for Canadian Children’s Larry Loyie talks about his award-winning book As Long as the Rivers Flow during a November reading at until he was 55, his dream was Non-Fiction and the 2006 Hon- Thunder Bay’s Waverly Library. always in the back of his mind our Book of the Year from the tion,” Loyie says, noting that he experience, and my grandmoth- reer as a playwright. and he kept reading “thousands First Nation Communities Read thinks about his story in his Cree ers. I have a good memory – my “I went to the sweat lodge and and thousands” of books as he program. language and then translates it memory goes back to when I was the medicine wheel for inspira- worked in the bush, on farms, “A lot of people say it is the to English as he writes it down. three years old.” tion,” Loyie says. “My fi rst play with the military, as a counsellor fi rst book that is totally First Na- “The stories come from my own Loyie began his writing ca- was about residential school.” More Indians reading, more Indians writing By Cherie Dimaline digenous Writers/Storytellers”. tum stopping anytime soon, plan- TORONTO – When Lee Mara- The symposium is an initia- ning to outreach to youth in sur- cle brought her fi rst manuscript tive of the Toronto rounding suburbs and reserves. to a Vancouver publishing house Women’s Book- During the opening plenary they told her, “We don’t publish store, a non-profi t session, Lee Maracle spoke about Indians because Indians can’t organization “dedi- the growing phenomenon of Ab- read.” cated to promoting original writers. “I don’t think Indeed, the Sto:lo/Metis edu- class-conscious, that because we are divorced cator and writer looked around anti-oppression, from our language that we are and saw that there were only 10 anti-colonial and Lee Maracle divorced from our way of life.” Aboriginal students in post-sec- feminist politics.” Citing storytelling as tradi- ondary institutions. But things Edite Pine, an Aboriginal tional medicine, Maracle spoke have changed. Today there are woman of mixed Irish, Scottish, about its importance in every as- over 30,000 Native students in French, and Aboriginal ancestry pect of your life including poet- Colleges and Universities across born in Peru, is the young dy- ry’s ability to heal the body. She Ken. Teg the country. namo who organizes the annual advocated for regular and steady There are also a myriad of tal- event. “It (the conference) was story in our lives. “If you raise ented and published Native writ- sparked out of a conversation your children with story, they 4” x 8.75” ers for them to read, and some between a staff member and a will manage.” of them gathered in Toronto the customer about their frustra- Sadly, she recognized the dif- weekend before November’s tions with the inaccessibility of fi culty of having our stories in Canadian Aboriginal Festival to the publishing industry towards print. “You have to be a really take part in “Written in Colour: A people of colour and Native peo- good writer if you are a person of Symposium for Emerging Writ- ples,” she says. colour in order to get published ers/Storytellers of Colour and In- Edite doesn’t see the momen- in Canada.” Joanna left the rez behind to fi nd her roots By Cherie Dimaline Tilly Rivers is the CEO of native, should have one of Joan- TORONTO – Joanna Shawana Rain Publishing in Burlington. na’s books in their libraries, not had to leave the rez to get closer “Joanna was introduced to me to mention the general public.” to her Native roots. through a mutual friend at the Now a proud grandmother, In 1988, the mother of three time. When she told me about the Shawana uses the metaphor of packed up and moved from her poems she wrote and the reason the eagle to illustrate a spirit hav- home in Wikwemikong on Mani- why she wrote what she did, I ing the ability to fl y high, free toulin Island to head for the un- was immediately form the hurtful hands of others. certainty of Toronto. What she drawn and asked A former employee of Anishi- found was a place for her family for samples of her nawbe Health Toronto, a Native- to thrive and the strength to fol- work.” run and focused health centre in low her heart. Joanna (Ojibwe/ the heart of downtown Toronto, After years of writing for Odawa, Eagle Joanna has a fan in Executive Di- her own healing, Shawana has Clan) is employed rector Joe Hester. “Joanna’s prose released “Voice of an Eagle” in the urban Native Joanna refl ects her personal and diffi cult through Rain Publishing. “My community, work- Shawana journey. A personal triumph yet book is about encouraging wom- ing with abused a sad commentary for too many en to have a voice, by having a women and children, and Tilly women like her.” voice we can let people know Rivers feels that the new book “Voice of an Eagle” by Jo- that we as women should not go has the potential to be as effec- anna Shawana, published by through this abuse. We need to tive as the author herself in help- Rain Books, ISBN: 0-9781257-0- stand up and let our voices be ing those in crisis. “I think every 3, $14.95, available as a special heard, and let the abusers know friendship centre, abuse clinic order at any book store or pur- that we will not allow this abuse and groups speaking out against chased online at www.rainbooks. to continue on,” she says. violence, both Native and non- com. Page 12 Anishinabek News December 2006 Mno-bmaadziwin/Health Hardy heads up study to combat youth tobacco abuse SUDBURY – Laurentian Univer- of tobacco might help generate diseases are urgent issues in First and Indigenous research-driven teaching at Laurentian Univer- sity will spearhead a major study programs to reduce tobacco con- Nations and Inuit communities, approach, this initiative will gen- sity since 1994. She was born and of how traditional Native tobacco sumption rates among First Na- where smoking rates double the erate empowering knowledge that raised in northern Ontario and is use might play a role in reducing tions youth. Canadian average (57.6 % vs. will help develop tobacco cessa- a member of the Teme-Augama smoking rates among First Na- “Today, some of our peoples 26.9 %). Al- tion programs designed specifi - Anishinabe. She holds both a tions youth. mistakenly defend ‘habitual and though tobacco- cally for First Nations youth. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing The Canadian Tobacco Con- addictive’ tobacco misuse on the use prevention initiative will be lead by partners and a Masters in Business Admin- trol Research Initiative (CTCRI) grounds of tradition, without truly and intervention and co-investigators in four par- istration from Laurentian Univer- announced the allocation of a having any awareness of its tradi- programs have ticipating First Nations commu- sity, and is currently working on $990,172 grant to Sheila Hardy, tional purposes,” said Sheila Har- been imple- nities across Canada: Katzie First her PhD in Sociology and Equity Laurentian University’s Director dy. “Experience has taught us that mented in many Nation (West), Sandy Bay First Studies from the University of of Academic Native Affairs and a return to true traditional values, First Nations Nation (Prairies), Sagamok An- Toronto. Sonia Isaac-Mann, Assembly of in a contemporary context, pro- communities, Sheila Hardy ishnawbek First Nation (Central) First Nations. Along with a team motes cultural wellness. We cer- there are few and Elsipogtog-Big Cove First For more information, please contact Professor Sheila Har- of seven co-investigators from tainly hope this project will con- programs that Nation (East). dy, Director of Academic Na- across Canada, they will use the tribute to our First Nations youth have examined Native traditional Appointed LU’s fi rst Direc- tive Affairs, at (705) 675-1151, grant to invest in a fi ve-year proj- moral and physical well-being.” approaches to addressing tobacco tor of Academic Native Affairs extension 3429 or by email, at ect to explore how traditional use Tobacco-related illnesses and misuse. With a community-based in 2006, Sheila Hardy has been [email protected]. KO Telehealth receives national award attention By Rick Garrick Okimakanak’s (Northern Chiefs) travelling to Toronto, our clients THUNDER BAY – KO Telehealth, fi ve member communities in can come here and do their follow Canada’s largest First Nation tele- northwestern Ontario through the up appointments in less than half health network, has received a na- broadband services of the K-Net an hour.” tional award of excellence. SMART Com- Vanier uses an IDOC telemed- “This is the fi rst time a First munities project, icine workstation, which incorpo- Nation project has won this KO Telehealth rates a patient camera, stethoscope award,” says Donna Williams, KO has since ex- and otoscope, to perform patient Telehealth’s program manager, as panded to serve examinations in her offi ce at the she describes the Canadian Soci- 25 remote First Beausoleil First Nation Family ety of Telehealth’s Digital Group Nation com- Health Centre for her client’s doc- of Telehealth Companies Award munities across tors, who are located in Midland, of Excellence for 2006. “It’s an Ontario, includ- and specialists, who are located in Donna Williams award that acknowledges excel- ing Beausoleil Toronto. Dale DePiero, KO Telehealth’s telehealth informatics educator, in- lence in telemedicine in Canada,” First Nation on A whole range of health care structs a group of community telehealth coordinators, including Rick says Williams, a citizen of Curve Christian Island in Georgian Bay. professionals at up to 700 hospi- Allen, from Eabametoong, Ida Fiddler, from Keewaywin, and Jessica Lake First Nation. “It’s fantastic,” says Susan Vanier, tals and health centres across On- Bighead, from Slate Falls, on the use of KO Telehealth’s telemedicine Originally established in an RPN and Beausoleil’s telemed- tario are accessible through KO workstation during a Jan. 2006 telehealth certifi cation session. 2000 to serve Keewaytinook icine site coordinator. “Instead of Telehealth’s network. Drug users as young as 8 By Lynda Banning THUNDER BAY – Participants in a November workshop learned that chil- dren as young as eight have been found using illicit drugs. Some 80 participants in the workshop – “Dealing with Crystal Meth, Cocaine and Oxycontin” – heard Peggy Shaughnessy of White Path Con- sulting describe how chemicals new to the illicit drug market are having increasing impacts on the abuser’s health and social functioning. The effects are rapid and severe, and may include cognitive defi cits, memory problems, Parkinson’s-like symptoms, paranoia, hallucinations, accelerated aging, skin lesions, and dental problems. Participants discussed the roles of community, medical and political groups, and a treatment mod- Mahdezewin & Midwives el based on Medicine Wheel teachings that addresses the four areas of an individual’s life. of Sudbury Sharing ideas on HIV/AIDS 6” x 6” By Jody Cotter NIPISSING FN – The HIV/ AIDS program was busy this past year with delegates from Union Jody Cotter, UOI HIV/AID of Ontario Indians First Nations educator and Doris Peltier, attending the International AIDS Wikwemikong at the 2006 in- 2006 conference in Toronto. ternational AIDS conference in The information to be learned Toronto. was phenomenal and was a real and the ideas are totally awe- eye-opener of how signifi cant some. Nipissing First Nation the HIV/AIDS epidemic is af- CHR Liz Stevens has an HIV/ fecting our world. AIDS quiz in her community I have also been busy collect- newsletter that will provide par- ing reports from our First Nation ticipants the chance to win $200 health workers about their proj- in mall bucks, and, Garden River ects to raise HIV/AIDS aware- CHR Marie Pine has done a suc- ness and educational activities cessful “Condom and Karaoke” being conducted in their respec- night for youth which was well- tive First Nation communities received by her community. December 2006 Anishinabek News Page 13 Skoonwiwin/Education Students see history in making Bartleman pencils in OTTAWA – Twenty B.C. aborigi- rectly to the students, said Peggy la. “I felt that we actually do make nal students felt shivers of pride Kotchea, 18, a Grade 11 student a difference being here.” Dec. 5 as federal Indian Affairs who has two boys, aged three and Both girls said they thought dragonfl y gathering Minister Jim Prentice looked up to one. of the residential school legacy By Cindy Crowe the public gallery of the Commons “It was very intense. It was, that wounded so many from their THUNDER BAY – Ozhaawash- to acknowledge their nervous pres- ‘omigod, we’re fi nally doing it.’ grandparents’ generation. ko-giizhig Traditional Teaching ence at the passage of historic leg- It was pretty amazing and a great Vickers said she agrees with Lodge (Blue Sky) is partnering islation to let B.C. bands run their experience. It’s going to be a good Prentice that band-run schools with the Métis Nation of Ontario own schools. story to tell my kids.” will make a difference in B.C. (MNO) to host their day-long Prentice was speaking after Community members in the and, when other provinces take up Dragonfl y Symposium Tuesday, MPs unanimously agreed to fast- Bella Bella and Fort Nelson First B.C.’s lead, across Canada. July 10, 2007. track passage Tuesday of legisla- Nations, many with memories of “We cannot learn about us and Ontario Lt. Gov. James K. about dragonfl ies. tion giving B.C. First Nations the the infamous and often abusive who we are and what we can truly Bartleman has graciously pen- To promote the symposium, right to develop “culturally-rel- residential school system, raised do until we know where we come ciled this date on his calendar Blue Sky is planning to enter a evant, community-tailored” cur- the money to send the students and from.” and will confi rm closer to the fl oat in the Canada Day Parade ricula for on-reserve schools from chaperones to Parliament to see Curricula in participating na- event, and we are also invit- 2007 as well as setting up a kindergarten to Grade 12. MPs from all parties passing Bill tive communities will be modifi ed ing Anishinabek Grand Coun- booth at the Pow-Wow grounds “There were butterfl ies in my C-34. to include instruction in First Na- cil Chief John Beaucage, NAN on Mount McKay the same long stomach” when the eyes of MPs in “I thought that was awesome tions languages, history and cul- Grand Chief Stan Beardy, and weekend. We will also be look- the House of Commons followed when the minister looked up,” said ture. Treaty 3 Grand Chief Arnold ing for assistance to borrow a Prentice’s gaze as he spoke di- Michelle Vickers, 17, of Bella Bel- The Bill, which received Royal Gardner. large tent and possibly a tipi for Assent Dec. 12, will give aborigi- Dr. Ruby Slipperjack-Far- the Dragonfl y Symposium which nal communities a direct role in rell, Author/Professor at Lake- will house all the activities and both teacher and school certifi ca- head University has consented to displays that day. tion as well as establishment of share some Anishinabe legends www.blueskyteachinglodge.ca. curriculum and exam standards.

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CASINO RAMA 6 X 6 Page 14 Anishinabek News December 2006 Masinaigan/Books

The Adventures of Crazy Turtle Mohawk professor Michael Cywink starts his “short story for all ages” by telling a First Nations story about truth and new beginnings. Michael has been actively involved in the community development of First Nations cultural arts, serving as curator at the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation Museum for preaches pacifi sm over nine years and visiting various locations around North America to study symbolic inter- pretation. By Deanna Marie Therriault But instead of pointing an accus- 26 pg., Paperback 1-897381-04-2 978-1-897381-04-5 01/11/2006 CA$10.95 (Approx. US$ 9.86) Wasase: Indigenous Pathways to ing fi nger and voicing the standard Action and Freedom is the third criticisms, Dr. Alfred offers sage book from Mohawk orator and advice, a plan that I believe can scholar Dr. Gerald Taiaiake Al- work. fred. With Indigenous peoples run- The title re- ning out of sound options, I think fers to an ancient it’s worth a try. The author is only Haudenosaunee asking his reader to commit to war ritual, a Thun- being an indigenous person. Al- der Dance meant fred asks: if you do not commit to prepare warriors to aspects of your culture, such for battle. The Deanna as speaking your language, sing- signifi cance of ing your songs, adhering to basic Therriault the title becomes concepts as mutual respect and the abundantly clear as you progress idea of community, are you really through the book’s four distinct an Anishinabe person? Pointing sections. the fi nger at oneself is never easy, Instead of a mere academic but a worthwhile exercise. critique, Alfred – a professor in Once a personal commitment the University of Victoria’s In- is made, Alfred claims a ripple digenous governance program affect will follow. The action of – offers a tangible action plan to re-traditionalization moves from assist indigenous peoples with ad- self, to family, to community and dressing that greatest enemy to our beyond. The idea’s beauty lies in continued survival: western and/or its simplicity. mainstream ideals of “self” pres- The indigenous reader is asked ervation and materialism. He sees to think outside the box, to adopt these approaches to life as replac- a perspective that sees beyond ing traditional indigenous values federal handouts and land claim of community and moderation. settlements. To see the strength in Wasase reads standing by our traditional beliefs like a manual pre- and have the tenacity to remain in- paring indigenous digenous people. peoples for some- Ghandi said “We must always Cambrian College thing many refuse aim to purify our thoughts and ev- to admit: that we erything will be well,’ Taiaiake Al- face an imminent fred writes that indigenous people demise if we do must seek to purify our ways of 6” x 11.75” not take serious Taiaiake living by simplifying our existenc- steps to preserve Alfred es with the life philosophies of our our culture, our customs, our lan- ancestors … and perhaps all will guages and our ceremonies. It be well. offers options to the indigenous In his own opening words: person wishing to transcend the “It is time for our people to live persistent shackles of colonialism, again.” but it is not confrontational. There is no call to arms har- kening back to memories of Oka, no mention of balaclavas or storming the Parliament buildings. Something so overtly aggressive would be irresponsible and for- eign to a true indigenous concept of survival. Instead, the book draws beautifully upon passive principles of resistance, with Al- fred quoting inspiration from the Buddha and Ghandi. I found this approach the book’s most appeal- ing aspect, having already been in- undated with rhetoric concerning the evils of the federal system, and Canada’s colonizers have done the Wasáse: Indigenous Pathways of Ac- indigenous person wrong. tion and Freedom by Taiaiake Alfred, Wasase is a solution-oriented Broadview Press (2005) Peterbor- treatise, challenging its indigenous ough, Ont., 313 pages, ISBN 1-55111- readers to make a personal com- 637-5, $29.95 mitment as the fi rst step an indi- vidual can make toward achieving Deanna Marie Therriault is comprehensive change on a “na- an Anishinabekwe activist and tional” level. It does not come as supporter of indigenous rights a demand, but more like a subtle from Fort William First Nation. shove in an obvious direction. Currently completing her BA in Alfred asks the indigenous Political Economy through Atha- person to simply examine their basca University, she also works own behaviours and determine for Wasaya Airlines, contributes the degree of personal coloniza- freelance articles on indigenous tion. Some may be surprised to issues to numerous publications,is realize that, in living their daily a mentor with her community’s lives devoid of many traditional Youth Council, and is mother to “a philosophies, they are colonists. wonderful seven-year-old”. December 2006 Anishinabek News Page 15

Native Studies FULL PAGE Page 16 Anishinabek News December 2006 DOHM-NUK/LET’S PLAY! ASK HOLLY Rabbit and Bear Paws BY HOLLY BRODHAGEN Used tires might make new homes I recently had the chance to talk to someone about how alternative housing might help address the housing shortage in our city. We had spoken before about our own plans to build energy-ef- fi cient, low-cost housing for our families, but this particular con- versation turned to how alterna- tive housing might be an answer to the lack of good quality hous- ing. In particular. I am wondering how alternative housing technol- ogy might address the long-term housing needs of First Nations. There are no simple answers, but I am hoping to spark an in- terest in someone who is willing to look into the viability of alter- native housing – maybe some- c All rights reserved. Chad Solomon and Little Bear Productions. 2005. one who can see the opportunity available in transforming that sis but it might be a new way to massive used-tire graveyard on stretch dollars further, especially Adventures of Rabbit and Bear Paws – The Sugar Bush Manitoulin Island into affordable if we are looking for long-term can be purchased in select retail book stores, Marla’s Books, and Gulliver’s homes. solutions rather then the more Books in North Bay or your local comic book shops. Or you can order from us in our online store at www.rabbitandbearpaws.com There are many amazing op- costly band-aid solutions used portunities for First Nations to ex- Adventures of Rabbit and Bear Paws: The Sugar Bush by politicians to date in trying to Publisher: Little Spirit Bear Productions ISBN 0-9739905-0-3 $9.95 Can/$7.95 U.S. periment in alternative housing, address the massive shortage of which could bring us back to the suitable First Nation homes. practice of using “native” materi- For information about alter- als that are available to us at little ative building styles, have a look cost. It would also enable us to at these websites: lead a traditional lifestyle of rely- www.ecoaxis.net/archt/index.html ing on the land and its bounty. www.daycreek.com Over the past few years I have www.greenhomebuilding.com researched a number of alterna- tive building styles like domes and underground dwellings, and Holly Brodhagen, Dokis First the use of materials like straw Nation, holds a Masters of Social bales, cordwood, and used auto- Work degree. Questions or com- Georgian College mobile tires (earthships). ments can be directed to her c/o The most successful examples the Anishinabek News, or by e- occur where building styles are mail at [email protected]. 6” x 6” used in climates best-suited to energy effi ciency and availabil- NATIVE WISDOM ity of materials. They are usually designed to use alternative en- I shall grab the ergy sources like solar power and instruments of the white waste systems such as greywater man’s success – his and composting toilets. Not only can alternative homes education, his skills– be built for a fraction of the “nor- and with these new tools mal” cost, their energy-effi ciency I shall build my race into and climate suitability also result the proudest in substantial long-term costs for segment heating and cooling. of your If we can build two houses society. that will last 100 years for the same amount of money as one house that might last 25 years, ~ Chief why would we not look at this op- tion? I am not saying this is the Dan George, only solution to the housing cri- Coast Salish December 2006 Anishinabek News Page 17

Anishinabek Nation Political Office Grand Council Chief, John Beaucage Deputy Grand Chief, Nelson Toulouse Chief-of-Staff, Bob Goulais Executive Liaison Officer, Monica Lister Executive Secretary, Patricia Campeau UNION OF ONTARIO INDIANS Nipissing First Nation P.O. Box 711, North Bay ON P1B 8J8 Ph: 877-702-5200 Fx: 705-497-9135 E-mail: [email protected] NIIGAAN ZHAAMIN “Moving Forward, Together” Demonstrators jeer Prentice at Ottawa rally OTTAWA (CP) – Indian Affairs Minister Jim Prentice was booed and jeered Dec. 5 as he tried to speak to about 400 Native protesters on Parliament Hill. Organizers of the rally say anger over perceived Conservative backtracking on First Nations rights has reached the boiling point. Over shouts of “Liar!’’ and “Shame!’’ Prentice tried to explain that his department was not responsible for cutting $160 million meant to preserve Native languages. That cash was recently eliminated by Ca- nadian Heritage and replaced with $5 million a year for seven years. The Tories say they’ll use the money to craft more effective pro- grams to keep about 50 fading languages from dying. But Prentice, the only federal minister to brave the placard-waving crowd as it huddled in a -5 C breeze, bore the full brunt of its frustra- tion.He was almost drowned out by catcalls. The Conservatives, he said, have earmarked more money for Na- tive issues than previous regimes. “This government is trying to do real work to improve the living circumstances of aboriginal Canadians,’’ he offered over a protester who countered: “Kelowna does that!’’ The national $5-billion Kelowna Accord reached a year ago to improve native education, housing and economic conditions was scrapped. Canada’s long-standing support for a United Nations decla- ration on the rights of Indigenous Peoples, which fi rst wavered under the Liberals, was pulled back under the Tories over concerns it would run counter to the constitution, defence laws and existing land deals. Assembly of First Nations national chief Phil Fontaine says the Tory government has broken promises while making progress in very few specifi c areas. Prentice is being disingenuous when he includes in federal spending the $2.2-billion settlement to compensate former students of Native residential schools, he said. “It’s not a program or a service,’’ Fontaine told chiefs from across Canada who began a three-day meeting here Tuesday. Make poverty history The Conservative budget actually committed just $450 million in First Nations citizens from across Canada rallied on Parliament Hill Dec. 5 to voice concerns about lack of new spending for 630 First Nations, Fontaine said. He reached that federal action on the 10-year-old recommendations of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal peoples, Ottawa’s fi gure after subtracting the residential schools settlement along with chopping of $160 million in funding promised to support First Nations language preservation, and the Con- $600 million promised for off-reserve and northern housing. servatives’ rejection of the Kelowna Accord, a $5 billion action plan for aboriginal issues agreed to by the “Our people are frustrated and angry,’’ he said. “And they have a previous Liberal government and all ten provincial premiers. The demonstration followed an announcement right to be. by the Assembly of First Nations of a national “Make Poverty History” campaign. Bob Goulais, top left, with the Anishinabek Nation Eagle Staff; top right, Munsee-Delaware Chief Patrick Waddilove and Glen Hare, An- “We feel betrayed and we simply can’t be silent about this betray- ishinabek Nation Deputy Grand Chief; bottom left: Dokis FN Chief Denise Restoule and Nipissing FN Chief al.’’ Marianna Couchie; bottom right: Kettle & Stony Point FN Chief Tom Bressette and Anishinabek Nation Elder Fontaine said he’ll keep trying to negotiate with federal politicians Gordon Waindubence, Sheguindah FN. – Photos by Laurie Mcleod-Shabogesic of all stripes. Anishinabek honour Louis Riel By Cherie Dimaline all those languages that he would meet up with all the TORONTO – It may have been a cold and rainy Louis way from the west to the east. He stayed with our peo- Riel Day but still they came. Metis and First Nations ple. Our people looked after and fed all those people friends joined together early in the morning of Nov. in those canoes and wished them well on their journey. 16 at Toronto’s City Hall to celebrate the life of Louis We were one family. That is really the message I have Riel and his people. today.” Anishinabek Grand Council Chief John Beaucage Following the fl ag-raising, the delegation journied was on hand for the fl ag-raising ceremony and spoke to the Queen’s Park Legislative Building to continue about the binding ties between the Anishinabek Na- with the day’s agenda. Traditionally held at the foot of tion and the Metis Nation of Ontario. “We as First Na- a statue commemorating the Dominion’s triumph over tions, one of the things that we did, whenever we had the Metis in 1885, the ceremonies were forced inside meetings with other communities or nations across by the rain. north America, we would take them into our families. Metis Nation of Ontario president Tony Belcourt We would marry their women or they would marry presented the Grand Council Chief with a plaque in our men then we became one family. So we are one memory of the eight First Nations men who were family that came from the same branch. We branched hanged shortly after Riel’s own hanging for treason out over the years but we still come from the same in Battleford, Saskatchewan. “(The men) were given branch.” swift trials, they didn’t have interpreters, they didn’t Beaucage addressed the history of Louis Riel from have lawyers on their behalf… a special gallows was a First Nations perspective. “Our communities have built so that all eight of them would drop at the same stories of Louis Riel traveling here to Ottawa and To- time. It was this huge spectacle, where people were Grand Council Chief John Beaucage helps Toronto city councillor Jane ronto along the waterways of the great lakes. Many brought together. Indian people were brought there Pitfi eld and Tony Belcourt raise Metis fl ag at Toronto’s City hall. canoes, many people in those canoes who could speak too to Battleford to watch this ugly spectacle.” Page 18 Anishinabek News December 2006 Restoration of Jurisdiction 2006 a banner year for consultation by Education Working Group Throughout 2006, the comment on the draft internal these amounts will be included Education Working Group (EWG) delegation and funding distribution in the Fiscal Transfer Agreement was involved in consultation agreements. or be funded under other arrange- activities with Anishinabek With very few exceptions, ments is still under negotiation. First Nations and their citizens. participants agreed that the draft Canada has proposed that only Beginning last January, the fi nal Agreement with respect to the core education amounts be in- EWG members made a series Exercise of Education Jurisdiction cluded in the FTA. Anishinabek of presentations across the represents an important step negotiators say that First Nations Anishinabek Nation to solicit toward taking back jurisdiction should not be expected to operate L to R: R. Martin Bayer, Anishinabek Nation Chief Negotiator, Chief feedback on the proposed and control over what Anishinaabe only parts of an education system. Robert Corbiere, Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve, Grand Coun- Anishinabek Education System children and youth learn. If new proposals to further cil Chief John Beaucage with Merle Pegahmagabow, Head Negotiator and the draft Final Agreement New activities for EWG develop the AES and to ratify the for Education with respect to the Exercise of In a last push to complete fi nal agreement are funded, EWG Education Jurisdiction between negotiations, members of the EWG members will also be involved Growing interest and Canada and the “Participating are involved in special committees in community ratifi cation First Nations” – the moniker for set up to determine costs for activities and the development of those First Nations that sign either particular areas of education. Anishinabek education policies. support for agreements an agreement-in-principle (AIP) The Capital Assessments Future Activities of the or a fi nal agreement. The EWG Sub-committee, made up of Education Working Group Negotiators continue to meet with First Nations to discuss the educa- partnered with Anishinabemowin individuals from the Anishinabek (January to March 2007) tion and governance agreements now under negotiation with Canada. Teg and presented at its annual Nation and Canada, is assessing – Finalize the elements of the R.Martin Bayer, Anishinabek Nation Chief Negotiator on Gover- conference in late March to get capital structures like schools Anishinabek Education Sys- nance continues to present the AIP and the potential benefi ts of the gov- input from Anishinaabemowin and teacherages, to determine the tem, the internal delegation ernance agreement to First Nation leaders and citizens. specialists on the development of amount of funds required in the and funding distribution agree- Lately, the Governance Main Table, including Chief Federal Ne- language and culture programs Fiscal Transfer Agreement (FTA) ments, and the Anishinabek gotiator Elizabeth Morin and Fred Bellefeuille, were joined by Merle within the proposed Anishinabek to bring the capital structures up Nation’s Fiscal Transfer Agree- Pegahmagabow, Head Negotiator for Education, to engage in a commu- Education System. to code. ment (FTA) proposed amounts nity discussion on self-government at Serpent River First Nation. The EWG was integral to Members of the EWG will also to be negotiated. Also Anishinabek negotiators held an information session with drafting the internal delegation participate in a Special Education – Participate in negotiation United Chiefs & Councils of Manitoulin, Algonquins of Pikwakanagan and funding distribution agree- Sub-committee to address sessions between the Head and Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve which resulted in a Band ments. These internal agreements special education issues. The Negotiation Table for Education Council Resolution being signed to support the AIP on Governance. will be between the Participat- sub-committee will participate and the Province of Ontario Signing of the Anishinabek Nation Agreement-in-Principle with ing First Nations (PFNs) and will in future meetings between the (Ministry of Education). Respect to Governance will likely take place in February 2007. There spell out the functions, roles and Education Negotiation Main – Negotiate a fi nal agreement has been no further indication as to when the education fi nal agreement responsibilities, accountability of Table and Ministry of Education with the Province of Ontario might be initialled and signed. each component of the Anishina- offi cials around solving the long- for the recognition of the First Nations interested in a presentation and discussions of the bek Education System (AES): the standing and increasing problems AES and addressing issues of agreement should contact the Union of Ontario Indians. local education authorities, the re- around special education for First transferability between the AES gional education councils and the Nation students. For example, and the Provincial education 2006-07 Capacity Development Workshops central, Kinomaadswin Education special education in First Nation system. Body. schools is underfunded and there is – Begin ratifi cation activities The Union of Ontario Indians Assimilation & Sovereignty After incorporating feedback little or no coordination of special for ratifying each of the Restoration of Jurisdiction January 23 & 24, 2007 from its consultations, the education programs between Education Final Agreement Project is hosting fi ve workshops, Facilitator: Dr. Pamela EWG hosted an education Canada, the federal system and elements within First Nation with each focusing on a key area Toulouse symposium on October 3-6, Ontario, the provincial system. communities. Development of Capacity Development. The Location: Pic River First 2006 for all Anishinabek First While the sub-committees ex- of a ratifi cation committee main goal of the workshops is Nation Nation communities to review plore and determine dollar fi gures consisting of education working to increase existing capacity in Comprehensive Community the proposed AES and provide to address these issues, whether group members. key areas within individual First Planning Nations and the Anishinabek February 6 & 7, 2007 Chart showing agreements required to set-up Anishinabek Education System Nation as a whole, prior to the Facilitator: Lorilee McGregor completion of the Education and Location: Mnjikaning First EDUCATION PARTICIPATING CANADA FINAL FIRST NATIONS (PFNs) Governance Final Agreements. Nation AGREEMENT Political Leadership, Band Youth (Mentorship) Managers, Program Directors March 6 & 7, 2007 Internal Internal support staff and youth at the Facilitator: Caroline Recollet DELEGATION OF FUNDING FISCAL AUTHORITY DISTRIBUTION First Nation, Tribal Council or Location: Sudbury, ON TRANSFER AGREEMENT AGREEMENT other First Nation organization There is no cost to participate in AGREEMENT level would benefi t greatly from any of the workshops. ANISHINABEK EDUCATION INDIVIDUAL the discussion and participation Lunch, refreshments and FUNDING at each of these dynamic resource material will be provided SYSTEM ALLOCATION AGREEMENTS workshops. to each participant. Travel, TUITION Between PFNs Local Education Authority AGREEMENTS $$and the KEB School Board Trustee Training accommodations and expenses Could be First Nation Council IN ONTARIO December 4 & 5, 2006 will be the responsibility of each Facilitator: Tracey O’Donnell individual workshop participant. Location: Red Rock Indian To register, or for further Regional Education Band, Nipigon, ON workshop information includ- Council (REC) Membership & Citizenship ing detailed workshop brochures,

December 12 & 13, 2006 please contact Terry Restoule, $ Kinomaadswin Education Facilitator: Tracey O’Donnell Capacity Development Coor- Body (KEB) Location: Best Western Great dinator, at 1-877-702-5200 or Northern, Sault Ste. Marie, ON [email protected]. December 2006 Anishinabek News Page 19 Restoration of Jurisdiction Six more First Nations to join NIIGAN GA-ZHAAMIN This chart shows current Anishinabek Nation support for the negotiations with Canada as a means to restoring jurisdiction in constitution development project the areas governance and education. It also shows First Nations By Mike Restoule understatement. Given that the Jurisdiction. The guide also constitution development under ROJ and oher processes. The Restoration of Jurisdiction constitution development process includes sample First Nation FIRST NATION (ROJ) Constitution Development can take up to a year to complete, constitutions that committees can Project has designed an accelerated it is imperative that First Nations build upon and use as models. process for six additional First begin without delay. Those First Nations that accept

Nations to be invited to participate The First Nations now the invitation to join the project EDUCATION AGREEMENT AGREEMENT GOVERNANCE CONSTITUTION DEVELOPMENT in the project immediately. beginning to develop their will commit to establishing a BCR supporting BCR supporting The draft Final Agreement constitutions can use the committee of no more than four Aamjiwnaang with respect to the Exercise of experience and information well-informed and infl uential Alderville draft completed Education Jurisdiction provides gathered by the initial 10 First community volunteers to do this Algonquins of Pikwakanagan that a participating First Nation Nations who are going down the intense work. The committees has jurisdiction on its territory in constitution development road in will meet with an ROJ facilitator Aundeck Omni Kaning other process relation to primary, elementary their communities. Information and legal and professional Beausoleil other process and secondary education for its used by these First Nations is resource technicians to get started. Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishinabek in progress members living on its territory. compiled in a “Anishinabek The draft constitutions are due Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek Section 8.1 of the draft fi nal Constitution Guidebook” that is by the end of March 2007. This Chippewas of Georgina Island other process agreement states, “A Participating intended to assist committees put is an ambitious and demanding First Nation will exercise together a draft constitution for approach that will test the mettle Chippewas of Kettle & Stony Point in progress Jurisdiction in accordance consideration by their community of those involved but can have Chippewas of the Thames with this Agreement and its members. great benefi ts to communities. Curve Lake other process Constitution.” The guidebook includes The six additional First Dokis in progress The anticipated start-up of the relevant research, practical Nations that have been invited Anishinabek Education System is information, and examples to this year to join the project are: the Fort William April 2008 with schools opening guide the committees in drafting Chippewas of Georgina Island, Henvey Inlet under First Nations jurisdiction the necessary provisions of a Long Lake #58, Pic Mobert, Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek September 2008. community constitution that Rama Mnjikaning, Wasauksing Long Lake # 58 in progress To say that First Nations have will, at a minimum, meet the and Wikwemikong Unceded precious few months in order requirements of the potential Indian Reserve. To date, Long Magnetawan to be prepared to “go live” with Final Agreement with respect Lake #58 and Wasauksing have M’Chigeeng the system as of April 2008 is an to the Exercise of Education accepted the offer. Michipicoten Mississauga # 8 Mississaugas of Scugog Island other process Moose Deer Point other process Munsee-Delaware Namaygoosisagagun Nipissing draft completed Ojibways of Garden River in progress Ojibways of Pic River in progress Pays Plat Pic Mobert Rama Mnjikaning other process Red Rock Indian Band draft completed Sagamok Anishnawbek other process Serpent River Sheguiandah Sheshegwaning in progress Thessalon Wahnapitae Wasauksing in progress Whitefi sh Lake in progress Whitefi sh River Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve operates a full education system. Here Chris Jacko, a student Zhiibaahaasing at Wase-Abin High School gives a “thumbs-up” to the Wikwemikong Board of Education. The proposed TOTAL (as of November 22, 2006) 28 24 20 Anishinabek Education System would offer students attending the 20 elementary and secondary schools within the Anishinabek Nation an education that emphasizes language, culture, and Anishinaabe history. LEGEND The system will also offer First Nation students that attend provincial schools access to Anishinaabe cur- Namaygoosisagagun does not have a land base. riculum developed through the curriculum development branch housed at the central Konomaadswin Edu- Jurisdiction negotiated at this time is exercised “on- cation Body or “KEB.” The KEB will be set up to support the delivery of Anishinaabe education programs reserve”; therefore, a BCR was not sought. and services by the First Nations that sign the Final Agreement with respect to the Exercise of Education Jurisdiction. Band Council Resolution received from First Talks are now in progress with Ontario regarding the relationship between the provincial system and Nation Council supporting the Agreements-in- the proposed Anishinabek Education System. Merle Pegahmagabow, Head Negotiator on Education, pre- Principle (AIP’s) sented the details and mechanics of the Anishinabek Education System to Ontario representatives. A series of meetings has been scheduled to coordinate the provincial and Anishinabek systems. The Province of For more information contact us at 1-877-702-5200 Ontario’s recognition of the AES and the transferability of students between the AES and the Provincial or [email protected] education systems are among several issues under discussion. Page 20 Anishinabek News December 2006

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S S A A REPORT CARD

ROYAL COMMISSION ON ABORIGINAL PEOPLE AT 10 YEARS In 1991, the Government of Canada launched the their autonomy and structure their solutions.” most extensive study and consideration of issues RCAP also presented specifi c socioeconomic REPORT CARD SNAPSHOT affecting Aboriginal Peoples in the history of Canada. targets: “To close the economic gap between Aborigi- Today, a full 10 years after tabling For over fi ve years, the Royal Commission on Aborig- nal peoples and non-Aboriginal peoples by 50% and A1of 440 RCAP recommendations, inal Peoples (RCAP) engaged, analyzed and care- improve social conditions in the next 20 years”. the Assembly of First Nations fully considered a balanced strategy to move forward. RCAP’s comprehensive strategy was based on a B+ 2 (AFN) has assessed the response A central conclusion was that “the main policy direc- rebuilding process as the best and proper way for the B- 1 and actions of the Federal Gov- tion, pursued for over 150 years, fi rst by colonial then revival of the economic, social, cultural and health ernment. Relative to a summary by Canadian governments, has been wrong.” status of communities and individuals. The strat- C+ 1 of major clusters of recommenda- The dominant theme in the recommendations was egy was premised on the restoration of relations of C5tions, it reveals the following that: “Aboriginal peoples must have room to exercise mutual respect and fair dealing between First Nations Report Card: and other Canadians. C- 6 This summary analysis points to D11 a clear lack of action on the key foundational recommendations RCAP RECOMMENDATIONS D- 2 of RCAP and a resultant lack of The Commissioners clearly recognized that the relationship between First Nations and Canadian so- progress on key socio-economic ciety needed restructuring before positive outcomes could be achieved in economic, health and social F37indicators. aspects of First Nations life. Other independent research has since proven the positive effects of tribal Based on our assessment, Canada has failed in terms of its action to date. sovereignty and cultural continuity on sustained development and community wellbeing. Key elements of the RCAP restructuring include: New Royal Proclamation: to reaffi rm Canada’s respect, recognize harmful actions, affi rmation of Ab- RCAP REPORT CARD original and Treaty rights. The reality for First Nations communities today is ongoing poverty, and an increasing gap in living conditions with other Canadians, which Recognition of First Nation inherent Jurisdiction: recognition by all governments and specifi c instru- were reported during the RCAP hearings. Any major improvements in ments and processes to recognize and implement First Nation governments. individual communities or regions have been led by those communities Machinery of Government: eliminate the Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, to for those communities. Appendix A provides a summary of RCAP recom- be replaced by two federal departments: a Minister of Aboriginal [First Nation, Métis and Inuit] Relations mendations which demonstrates the Canadian Government’s perfor- to provide fi scal and policy guidance, including a Crown Treaty offi ce, to the Minister of Indian and Inuit mance over the past ten years. Services. Treaty Commissions and an Aboriginal Lands and Treaty Tribunal: covering matters of (1) specifi c Th e Reality claims; (2) Treaty making, implementation and renewal. No sustained investment in meeting the basic needs Effective Financial Mechanisms: support for First Nations governments through clear policies. of First Nations communities, or in addressing key Redistribution of Lands and Resources: through Treaty and Aboriginal rights implementation. determinants of health/well-being. Network of Healing Centres and Lodges: operated under First Nations control, in an integrated ser- vice delivery environment. First Nations children These restructuring initiatives were not implemented by the federal government, and the status quo con- • 1 in 4 First Nations children live in poverty, compared to 1 in 6 tinues today. The federal response has been limited to providing some funding in targeted areas such Canadian children. They have double the rates of disability, and as early childhood development, diabetes, housing, sewage infrastructure, some aspects of education over one third of their homes are overcrowded. reform, water management and social assistance. • Year end 2003 data from DIAND indicated that 9,031 First Nations children on reserve were in child welfare, representing a 70% increase from 1995.2 National Chief gives Ottawa an ‘F’ • A recent report has found that 0.67% of non-Aboriginal children By Bill Curry tensive consultations with aboriginals. forward or we can move backward.” were in child welfare care as of May 2005, compared to 10.23% Globe and Mail The main recommendations called The AFN report card grades the of status Indian children. OTTAWA – Native leaders marked the for a renewal of the 1763 Royal Proc- federal government’s response to 62 • As many as 27,000 First Nations children are currently under care. 10th anniversary of the Royal Com- lamation affi rming aboriginal and clusters of the RCAP recommenda- mission on Aboriginal Peoples with treaty rights, and the regrouping of tions, giving an F to 37 of them. The First Nations homes the release of a report card that shows Natives as self-governing nations that AFN grants only one A, two Bs, 12 In addition to a higher rate of overcrowding, First Nations homes Ottawa has failed to act on the vast would manage a larger land base. Cs and 13 Ds. The lone A was for the are about four times more likely to require major repairs compared majority of its 440 recommendations. Phil Fontaine, the national chief of 1996 decision to designate June 21 of to Canadian homes and mold contaminates almost half of First Na- The Assembly of First Nations the AFN, was host each year as National Aboriginal Day. tions homes. gives Ottawa an F in all areas dealing at a Nov. 21 recep- Liberal MP Anita Neville criti- 1 in 3 First Nations people consider their main drinking water with the respect of treaties, which the tion marking the cized the Conservatives’ decision not unsafe to drink, and 12% of First Nations communities have to boil commission argued were key to giving anniversary at the to honour the $5.1-billion Kelowna Natives enough power and land to lift Museum of Civi- accord, signed at a fi rst ministers their drinking water. most out of poverty. lization in Gatin- meeting last November, and for op- Six percent (over 5,000 homes) are without sewage services, and The federal government signed eau. He argued posing a United Nations declaration 4% lack either hot water, cold water or fl ushing toilets. hundreds of treaties with Natives as that building these on the rights of indigenous peoples. Canada was settled by Europeans, nations will give “How can the Prime Minister pre- First Nations communities and they form the basis of continuing Natives the criti- National Chief tend to be a voice for human rights, negotiations over land rights for tradi- cal mass to govern Phil Fontaine while at the same time actively work- First Nation communities ranks 76th out of 174 nations when using tional hunting and fi shing. But treaties themselves, and he ing to destroy the declaration on the the United Nations Development Index 2001. This is compared to can also produce signifi cant fi nancial criticized the current Conservative rights of indigenous peoples?” she Canadian communities who rank 8th. benefi ts for Native communities that government, saying, “We are con- asked. Unemployment is over 50%, and rises to over 60% for those without obtain rights to natural-resource rev- cerned there is no activity to advance Indian Affairs Minister James high school completion. enues in areas such as mining and the agenda.” Prentice said his government is com- First Nations are more likely to require health services than national forestry. After 10 years of federal inaction mitted to honouring treaties. average, and tuberculosis is eight to ten times more prevalent The royal commission was on the commission’s recommenda- “This government does not support among First Nations. launched in 1991 by prime minister tions, Mr. Fontaine says now is a key this declaration because that particular Life expectancy for First Nations men is 7.4 years less, and 5.2 Brian Mulroney’s government. By moment for the country. “Canada is at declaration jeopardizes those treaties, 1996, it produced fi ve volumes of de- a crossroads between the paths of co- the enforceability and the meaning of years less for First Nation women, compared to Canadian men and tailed recommendations based on ex- operation and confl ict. We can move them,” he said. women respectively. December 2006 Anishinabek News Page 21

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S S A A CALL TO ACTION FOR FIRST NATIONS YOUTH

Make Poverty History - The First Nations Plan for Creating Opportunity

“The Make Poverty History for First Nations campaign is something that can enourage our youth to think seriously about the reality facing First Nations and empower them to help make a difference for their families and communities.” – AFN National Chief Phil Fontaine The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) recently launched a national campaign to show the Canadian public and politicians what is the shocking state of poverty lived by too many First What does Poverty really mean? Nations peoples. Too many of our Children, Elders. Families and Communities a re living in conditions that The Make Poverty History: The First Nations Plan For Creating Opportunity campaign should not be accepted by anyone in Canada. highlights the struggles facing our people and our communities. We have to take action 1 in 4 First Nations children live in poverty. together, have a strong voice and demand that Canada’s political leaders honour their com- First Nations youth commit suicide at 5 to 8 times the Canadian rate as a result of mitments to end poverty. poverty and despair. High school graduation rates for First Nations youth are half the Canadian rate. As First Nations youth, you have enormous infl uence and will play an important role in the About 1 in 4 First Nations homes with children are overcrowded. success of this campaign. We need you to spread the message and show that we, as First Close to 100 First Nations communities under boil drinking water advisories. Nations peoples, have the knowledge, ability and solutions to take charge of our own Mould contaminates almost half of all First Nations homes. future. More than half of First Nations people are not employed. Diabetes among First Nations people is at least three times the national average. The AFN campaign is linked to Make Poverty History, a worldwide effort to eliminate pov- First Nations suffer from Third World diseases such as tuberculosis at 8 to 10 times erty that began in 2005 and involves over 80 countries. the rate of Canadians in general.

“Poverty breeds helplessness and hoplessness and our people deserve a better future. We need immediate action from the government and we need to work together to break the It is time to speak up against these unacceptable conditions and demand change, cycle of poverty for First Nations.” – Ted Nolan, NHL Coach CHANGE TODAY FOR TOMORROW! Creating Opportunities GET INVOLVED Did you know that more than half of First Nations people are under 23 years old? If poverty Please join with the AFN, your First Nations leaders and community members in our united isn’t addressed today, it will continue to linger among our families and communities in the efforts to eliminate poverty among our people. next generations. First Nations youth have the power to change the system. This campaign cannot be suc- That means your voice is critical to call for immediate action from the Government of Can- cessful without you! We need your help to tell the government and all Canadians that First ada to stop the cycle of poverty and support First Nations governments to address poverty Nations will not be ignored and that our rights must be fully recognized and respected. for all of us and future generations. “I believe that First Nations youth should look to the future with hope and big dreams. The world is full of opportunities and nothing should hold them back. It’s time for all First Na- How do we break this cycle? We need strong, stable, self-suffi cient governments. We need tions people – including our youth – to take a stand against poverty so we can help make economic development opportunities – our fair share of Canada’s resources coming from their dreams come true. Let’s work together to Make Poverty History for First Nations.” our traditional and current lands. We need good health care, safe housing, and access to – Adam Beach, Actor educational opportunities close to home. Here are a few ways that you can support this national campaign: This isn’t the case today. First Nations peoples receive half the amount of funding per per- Sign the online petition with all your peers and fellow students at www.afn.ca son as other Canadians. Our fund log for health and other essential services like education Writ e to your Member of Parliament – you can fi nd his/her contact information at www.parl. are capped every year at a level below what is needed to meet our needs. gc.ca. Distribute campaign materials to people in your community and encourage them to become What we know is that it will cost Canada more to do nothing. involved. Create murals or banners for display in your school or community. Money is necessary, but it isn’t enough. We need to create a solid and stable foundation Plan an event in your school or community to raise awareness and publicity. for First Nations to make the decisions that affect their lives and plan for their own future. For more information on the campaign, please visit www.afn.ca “We know how to make things work better. We can be inspired to work together. We need Contact: Bryan Hendry, A/Communications Director support, time and the tools to make it happen. Our voice must be heard.” Assembly of First Nations – Gino Odjick, Special Advisor on Youth and Sports 473 Albert Street, Suite 810, Ottawa ON K1R 5B4 Toll-free: 1-866-869-6789 Fax: (613) 241-5808

Take Action. Make Your Voice Count. Strengthen Our Message. Page 22 Anishinabek News December 2006 A’ki/Land First Nations not sharing in wealth Halford Hide By Lynn Gehl pect new First Nation governments certainly not guaranteed, “as long as First Nations peoples, such as the to remain viable?” and further, “Are the rivers fl ow.” For example, when Algonquin of the Ottawa River Val- the federal and provincial govern- the Nisga’a people negotiated one- ley here in Ontario, enter into land ments negotiating in good faith?” quarter of the Nass River fi shery in 4” x 4.5” claims and self-government pro- The Indigenous understanding their 2000 settlement they achieved cesses to regain their territories as of treaties is that they were sacred it without constitutional protection. well as their share of revenues gen- promises by the settler governments This undoubtedly leaves First Na- erated from their territories. They to share the use of our traditional tions governments and their juris- do this to support the long-term lands with us, a concept we inter- dictions vulnerable and non-viable viability of their communities and pret to include sharing in any wealth in the long term. governments. generated from that use. To better As Calgary-based professor Mi- It is inappropriate to think of and understand how unfair and unrea- chael Asch argues, “rights that are to characterize these negotiations as sonable the exist- not constitutionally entrenched can selling land in exchange for a one- ing land claims be easily taken away.” time lump-sum payout from federal and self-govern- and provincial governments. ment processes Lynn Gehl, Algonquin Anishina- The process of achieving self- are, it helps to bekwe, is a Ph.D. Candidate in In- government involves First Nations have some idea digenous Studies at Trent University regaining jurisdiction to manage of the wealth where her dissertation topic is the their own affairs in such key areas the governments contemporary land claims and self- as education, justice, and gover- generate from Lynn Gehl government process as a perpetua- nance – developing their own school land bases once tion of colonization. curricula, making their own laws, exclusively occupied by Indigenous and designing their own models of peoples. government. First Nations achiev- According to the Ministry of ing self-government will incur the Northern Development and Mines, ongoing costs associated with re- over $7 billion in metals and min- lieving the Crown of its fi duciary erals were extracted in 2005 from obligations to provide services. lands in southern Ontario. This rep- Put another way, these negotia- resents just a single year’s yield of tion processes serve as the mecha- decades of natural resources wealth nism to establish an economic base from which First Nations like the for First Nations peoples and their Algonquin have been excluded. new governments. Otherwise, how Neither have the Algonquin or would First Nations peoples be able any other First Nations been allo- to fund operation of newly-obtained cated a share of the $59 million in jurisdictions and how could their sales of hunting and fi shing permits governments remain viable in the during the most recent fi scal year by long term? Ontario’s Ministry of Natural Re- Despite this, the federal Land sources. Claims Policy states that settlements Algonquin Park, established merely offer a “means whereby ab- in 1893 as Ontario’s fi rst provin- original groups can obtain some of cial park, contributed $170 million the tools to capture economic op- from forestry industry activities to portunities and establish the means the provincial economy in 2004- whereby they can make decisions 05. During 2005 the park generated Rama Mnjikaning FN about future renewable resource over $13.5 million from visitors, use.” The policy even places strict campers, concessions, and commer- time limitations and absolute dollar cial leases…and it is one of only 6” x 9” caps on the very revenues that First 106 operating provincial parks in Nations require to sustain their new- Ontario. ly-obtained responsibilities. Shouldn’t the Algonquin and In essence, the federal and pro- other First Nations peoples be enti- vincial governments have created tled to their share of these revenues, a seemingly contradictory process the direct result of commercial ac- whereby the Crown relinquishes its tivities on Indigenous lands? fi duciary responsibilities while con- When First Nations peoples currently impairing the ability of have succeeded in negotiating First Nations to assume them. This limited resource revenue-sharing begs the question, “How do the fed- through the existing land claims and eral and provincial governments ex- self-government process, they are Big Trout Lake fi ghts provincial mining act TORONTO (CP) – The Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation claims the provincial government is refusing to sign a basic consultation agreement would allow them to begin court-ordered talks with Toronto- based Platinex Inc. The junior exploration company wants to drill in the Big Trout Lake area, some 600 kilometres north of Thunder Bay. While the proposed site is not on reserve land, it is within the aboriginal band’s traditional territory. The case could have wider implications for exploration in the prov- ince’s mineral-rich north because the band is also challenging the On- tario Mining Act on constitutional grounds. The band wants the act to mandate consultation with aboriginal people even before explorers go in search of gold, diamond and nickel deposits so that the mostly impoverished communities can reap some economic benefi t from mining. December 2006 Anishinabek News Page 23 Intergovernmental Affairs Long Lake, Lac Seul settle power issues By Rick Garrick with the settlement, which covered THUNDER BAY – Long Lake losses of land and resources stem- #58 and Lac Seul First Nations ming from Ontario Hydro’s fl ood- have signed settlement agreements ing of Long Lake in 1938. with Ontario Power Generation to “We had an overwhelming resolve past grievances. vote,” Kakegabon said. “Ninety- Long Lake began negotiating six per cent voted for the settle- with OPG in 2000 and offi cially ment.” signed their agreement on Aug. All of Long Lake’s 1,205 eli- 31 for an undisclosed amount, gible band members had an op- while Lac Seul began negotiating portunity to vote, with the off-re- in 1993 and offi cially signed their serve members voting by mail-in Chief Clifford Bull, centre with eagle feather, and a group of Lac Seul First Nation councillors and community agreement for $12.6 million on ballots. members – including former chief David Gordon – at Toronto signing ceremony for $12.6 million settlement Nov. 14. As of now, no decisions have with Ontario Power Generation. “We are pleased to have been made about how to use the sions that may lead to a future busi- Seul, a Treaty #3 community lo- currently being constructed by reached a settlement with OPG,” settlement funds. ness relationship with Long Lake cated about 400 km northwest OPG at the Ear Falls dam site. said Chief Veronica Waboose of “We haven’t made a fi nal deci- #58 First Nation that will benefi t of Thunder Bay, noted that the “This agreement is a model to Long Lake, an Anishinabek Na- sion,” Kakegabon said. “With the both parties,” Murphy said. settlement, $7.2 million up front, facilitate the construction of new tion community located about money we have in the bank, we Waboose and Kakegabon both $4 million plus interest on Dec. clean, renewable hydro power 300 km northeast of Thunder Bay. could double that in seven years.” noted that Long Lake is currently 3, 2007, and another $1.4 mil- through a partnership between “And we look forward to building, John Murphy, OPG’s executive in talks with OPG about potential lion in additional benefi ts, such OPG and the Lac Seul First Na- together, a new trusting relation- vice president - hydro, explained hydro power development projects as $100,000 annually for 10 years tion,” Murphy said. ship based on mutual respect.” that the settlement recognizes the in the community’s traditional ter- towards scholarships, recognizes Bull added that Lac Seul can Narcisse Kakegabon, Long past and allows both parties to ritory. the impacts of the past and looks now begin to address the impacts Lake’s band manager, said that move forward together. Chief Clifford Bull of Lac forward to a more positive future. to the reserve and its people from most band members were satisfi ed “OPG looks forward to discus- “Our people support the work fl ooding due to Ontario Hydro’s that is being done by OPG to add Root River Diversion in the mid- additional generation at the (Ear 1950s and the 1928 construction Falls hydro dam) site,” Bull said. of the Ear Falls dam. “In the future we want to build a Lac Seul plans to hold com- commercial relationship with OPG munity consultations to decide in which our people can benefi t where the settlement funds should from projects on our traditional go - some suggestions include lands.” bridges to reconnect two isolated Lac Seul is considering wheth- communities and a new school in er to invest $4 million of the settle- the band’s third community, which ment for a 25 per cent share of the lost their original school during new 12 MW hydroelectric plant the fl ooding. Court supports Native wood harvesting OTTAWA (CP) – Natives must purposes. Kina Gbezhgomi be allowed to harvest timber on But after the New Brunswick Crown land for personal use, the court of appeal upheld lower court Supreme Court of Canada ruled rulings that absolved native men Child & Family Services Dec. 7 a potentially far-reaching from taking timber for personal judgment on aboriginal rights. use, the Supreme Court agreed to The unanimous judgment said hear the Crown’s appeal. 6” x 8” harvesting wood for survival pur- Darrell Gray, of the Pabineau poses was integral to the culture First Nation Mi’kmaq, was orgin- of the Mi’kmaq and Maliseet peo- ally charged in 1999 after tak- ples. ing four maple trees from Crown “The right to harvest wood for land. the construction of temporary shel- ters must be allowed to evolve into a right to harvest wood by modern IA Staff means to be used in the construc- tion of a modern dwelling,’’ said Allan Dokis the judgment. Director “Any other conclusion would freeze the right in its pre-(Euro- Jason Laronde pean) contact form.’’ Resource Management That right is geographically Council Coordinator limited, said the court, to lands tra- ditionally used by the band mem- Alicia McLeod ber in question. Treaty Research And the timber harvesting right ``has no commercial dimen- Melissa Stevens sion,’’ added the judgment. Treaty Research Clerk “The harvested wood cannot be sold, traded or bartered to pro- Nadine Roach duce assets or raise money.’’ Forestry Coordinator The high court had already Barb Naveau ruled against aboriginal rights to log Crown lands for commercial Forestry Assistant Page 24 Anishinabek News December 2006 Anishinabemowin/Language Niin memoonji mnji-aawish I am your worst enemy Niin aapji mshkozii ooshime go memoonji maawnjidoowaad maagaasjig maan pii kiing; I am more powerful than the combined armies of the world; Pii naash dash go kino miigaadinan bmaadizijig, niin kino nbinaajaag niinwag I have destroyed more men than all the wars of the nation; Niin dindwen enji nbowaad bmaadizjig wiisgeshinwaag miinwaa niin nbnaajtoonan ensa bebezhig endaadadjig ooshime dash go mooshkaang, waawaayesemigak, skidemigak miinwaa gchi-nooding ooshime maamiwidoonsdoong nanda kino; I have caused millions of accidents and wrecked more homes than all the fl oods, tornadoes, fi res and hurricanes put together; Niin ndaaw memoonji aakoziikenyishkeyaanh ge gmoojkii-ninii-yish. Niin ngimoodin niibino zhoonyaa ensa ngo-bboon; I am the world’s slickest thief. I steal billions of dollars each year; Niin mikwaag memoonji nogaazjig, mej go iidig epiidji gchi-twaazig- wenh, miinwaa epiidji nogaasgwenh, maage epiidji shkiniigwenh maage epiidji getizigwenh, maage epiidji mshkooziigwenh maage epiidji niimizgwenh; I fi nd my victims among the rich and poor, the young and the (First) National Anthem old, the strong and the weak; A group of youngsters from Dokis First Nation sang Canada’s national anthem in Ojibway during the Nov. Niin nmoogse niibinoshing ngwaji oodi go ndaade mzinshin go gti- 26 Aboriginal Appreciation Night at a North Bay Skyhawks junior hockey game. Back row, from left: Jamie ganing enji-nokiiwin teg; Restoule, Presley Young (Restoule), Rikki Restoule, Mary Dokis – Elder/Native Language Teacher/Volunteer. I loom up to such proportions that I cast a shadow over Front row, left: Troy Lajeunesse (Restoule), Melanie Young (Restoule), Leah Dokis. Sudbury Wolves – whose every fi eld of labor; roster includes Native players Scott Restoule (Dokis), Jordan Cheechoo (Moose Factory), and Brendan Bie- Niin ndaa’aan ngonaagosii, niisaanis, miinwaa gaawiin ngekwaadizisii; dermann (Moose Factory), were 7-2 winners over North Bay, whose lineup includes Justin Roy (Temiscam- I am relentless, insidious, unpredictable; ing). – Photo by Lisa Restoule Niin kino ngoji ndaa’aa-endaayin, miikinaang, enji nokiing teg, enji maamiwi nokii’aad nokiitjigan teg, nokii-aajkinganing, nbiing, miin- waa noodinwining ndaa’aa; Feds chop FN language funding I am everywhere – in the home, on the street, in the factory, in the offi ce, on the sea and in the air; OTTAWA – The Assembly of First Nations leaders from across Canada, nal Languages funding. Minister of Niin nbiidoon aakoziwin, ngaaswin, miinwaa nbowin; Nations’ Chiefs Committee on Lan- learned in November that there will Heritage and Status of Women Bev I bring sickness, poverty and death; guages (CCOL), comprised of First be signifi cant changes to Aborigi- Oda says that money set aside in Gaa-gego nmiigweziin, miinwaa niin kino gego nchi-biinchi-ndaapinanl 2002 for Aboriginal languages in the I give nothing and take all; amount of $172.5 million will not be Niin memoonji mnji-aawish; disbursed as originally planned. I am your worst enemy; While $12.5 million has been Niin ndaaw mshkode’aaboonyish. disbursed to date, Minister Oda in- I am alcohol. formed CCOL Chair Chief Bill Cran- – Author Unknown; Nishinaabe translation by Shirley Williams, mer of her unilateral decision that Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve the languages funding is expected to be renewed for the next ten years at $5 million per year for a total of $50 million. This represents a signifi cant reduction from the original $172.5 Entertainers support language million originally set aside. This unilateral decision fl ies in Cree entertainers Winston Wuttunee and Tina Keeper were among Anishinaabe Speech hundreds of participants at the National First Nations Language the face of the Federal Government- Conference Nov. 13-15 in Winnipeg. Wuttunee, an actor, comedian, First Nations Political Accord. This and children’s story-teller from a Saskatchewan First Nation, served as decision demonstrates the lack of 4” x 2” master of ceremonies for the conference banquet. Keeper, an award- good faith on behalf of Canadian winning Manitoba actor famous for her role in “North of 60” and currently Heritage as the Chiefs Committee the Member of Parliament from Churchill, was a speaker and presenter. has been in negotiations with Cana- The event was hosted by the Manitoba First Nations Education Re- dian Heritage offi cials on the rollout source Centre. – Photo by Perry McLeod-Shabogesic of the remaining $160 million. Gdanmigkaagoom

Aamjiwnaang; Alderville; Algonquins of Pikwakanagan; Aundeck Omni Kaning (Sucker Creek); Beausoleil; Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishinaabek (Rocky Bay); Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek (Sandpoint); Chippewas of Georgina Island; Chippewas of Kettle & Stony Point; Chippewas of the Thames; Curve Lake; Dokis; Fort William; Henvey Inlet; Lake Helen (Red Rock); Long Lake #58; Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek (Gull Bay); Magnetawan; M’Chigeeng; Michipicoten; Mississauga #8; Scugog; Mnjikaning; Moose Deer Point; Munsee-Delaware; Namaygoosisagagun; Nipissing; Ojibways of Garden River; Ojibways of Pic River; Pays Plat; Pic Mobert; Sagamok Anishnawbek; Serpent River; Sheguiandah; Sheshegwaning; Thessalon; Wahnapitae; Wasauksing; Whitefish Lake; Whitefish River; Wikwemikong Unceded; Zhiibaahaasing.