JUNE 2009 VOLUME 12 - NUMBER 6

FREE Saskatchewan youth continue to amaze

By Andrea Ledding For Eagle Feather News his year’s eleventh annual SaskTel Aboriginal Youth Awards of Excellence had close to 60 nominees. As each inspiring youth stepped forth, a brief bio of achievements, background, and future plans Twas read to the audience of 600 atTCU Place – dignitaries, sponsors, supporters, family and community members.

A FINE ARTIST DoriannaMichelwonanaward andperformedattheSaskTel AboriginalYouthAwards. - Page 2

NATIONBUILDING Manley Begay shared his knowledge at conference held in Saskatoon. - Page 13

AFTERNOON EDITION Elektra Charles of Saskatoon is the first female recipient of the Outstanding Achievement Award. MichelleHugliisthehostofCBC RadioOne’safternoonshowand Winners came from all over – both CultureAward mother, the caregiver, passed away. Meanwhile Emily she couldn’t be happier. recipient, Marcella Tsannie from Hatchet Lake Dene continues to excel and provide leadership at school. - Page 14 Nation, and EducationAward recipient Jordyn Burnouf Tihana Nippi from Kinistin Saulteaux Nation won from Ile a la Crosse, hope to return as doctors to their the Technology/Science Award. The Grade 11 Marion northern communities. Graham Collegiate student hopes to study forensics and RIEL FIDDLER “Mylegswereshaking,”confessedBurnoufafterwards, pathology. Tara Desroches, LeadershipAward recipient, DausinEllisisamemberofthe butaddsitwasanamazingexperience,advisingotheryouth has four years of perfect attendance and is on the honour RielReelersandyoucanbesure to “try for everything.” She has already received a U of S roll at E.D. Feehan Collegiate, and participates in innu- he’s tuning up for National entrance award and applied for over 30 other awards. merable activities. Aboriginal Day. - Page29 Marlin Legare, Sports/RecreationAward Recipient Trina Lathlin of Mount Royal Collegiate, winner of from Hudson Bay Composite, has been wrestling and the Community Service Award, is from Opaskyawak NEW GENERATION running at provincial and national levels, and hopes to Cree Nation and works with children, seniors, and many CBCandINCAhaveteamedupto develop and coach other young athletes. others, and has the goal of one day becoming a red seal present a new generation of Dorianna Michel of Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation, chef or baker. storytellers. winner of the Fine/Performing Arts Award, sang “One First female recipient for “Outstanding Achieve- - Page 30 Tin Soldier” beautifully in Cree and English. Only 14 ment” was Elektra Charles from Tommy Douglas now, in 2007 Dorianna was on life support, following Collegiate. Elecktra is a Grade 11 student from Lac Welcome to our two major surgeries and double pneumonia. La Ronge First Nation who is on the SRC, has an National Aboriginal Day Issue Emily Key, from Gordon First Nation and Arch- average of 92 per cent - and is an elite athlete and track Coming In July : bishop O’Neill High School in Regina, is the recipient competitor, recently winning a Tom Longboat athletic Graduations of the SpiritAward. The eldest of six children, 15-year- award. CPMA #40027204 old Emily has kept her family together since their grand- • Continued on Page Two 2 Eagle Feather News JUNE 2009 Role models come in all shapes and sizes: Cameron

family was as excited as he was. He credits their support, other, themselves, and the community.” but it’s obvious he’s put in a lot of work as well. He Past alumni such as musicians Dallas Fiddler and advises other young men to focus on positive goals. Navarone Thunderchild, who both performed, continue “There’s lots of peer pressure – steer away from it, to shine in their fields. and you can achieve anything,” he noted. “This gives them leverage to build capacity for them- Colleen Cameron, committee chair for the past four selves and get their names out there – many have gone years, says each year has grown with new sponsors on to win Millenium Scholarships,” Cameron added. joining founding sponsors, such as SaskTel, SIGA, “The greatest thing we can do is honor each other SaskSports, SaskEnergy, and SaskLotteries. and honor our youth. It means so much to them and their “And we’re grateful to all of them – and other families – even to be recognized in the nomination.” supporters like Eagle Feather News who have also been Cameron noted the importance of having good there since day one for media support,” noted Cameron. stories to recognize our youth and their strength, hope, “We’ve brought in a lot of our educators and and resiliency. community people – to understand the youth and their “It’s amazing what some of them are doing out there needs. The bursaries are to help them with whatever they despite the harshness of our realities. We need role need to keep going.” models and all different shapes, sizes, and areas of life. Over $5,000 in bursaries were awarded with the I wouldn’t be here without a role model.” support of theWicihitowin Foundation – in honour of First Nations Veterans. It is named for the Cree word meaning Dorianna Michel won the Fine Arts Award. “helping each other”. Each winner in the ten categories also received • Continued from Page One beautiful star blankets handcrafted by “I was very surprised and happy,” said Charles after- Eva Lizotte of Kihiw Designs and wards. She says she is very driven in her goals on and Crafts, and handsome plaques donated off the track, and her parents have influenced her to by Joseph Bear of AMI Memorials to achieve. celebrate and honour them. “They want us to get as far as we can, and be happy “These are amazing youth – in life.” every one has a story and we’re glad The first male recipient, Dane Sanderson, is from to share some of it with their peers, James Smith First Nation. Athlete, coach, referee, family and communities,” said community leader and volunteer, he maintains an average Cameron. “They are encouraged and of 94 per cent at Prince Albert’s St. Mary High School. made stronger with belief in each Sanderson said he was shocked at first, but his whole The youth were presented blankets crafted by Eva Lizotte. JUNE 2009 Eagle Feather News 3 They’re writing for freedom in North Central Regina

By Jesse Archibald-Barber Becerra spoke next with a mixture of “I thought it would be inspiring to organize the book as well,” said Silver- For Eagle Feather News grim reality and comic relief about his invite the Freedom Writers, as their back- thorne. embers of the Freedom Writers, childhood and how he had to dodge gangs grounds are similar to the North Central Kuffner’s documentary will follow of movie fame, spoke at a on the way to school. kids,” said Kuffner. the North Central Family Centre writing fundraiser for a North Central “Writing gave me a life preserver. I Judith Silverthorne, an award project from its inception to the comple- Regina writing project that will also be always had an image in my head of the winning Saskatchewan writer, will be tion of the book. Mthe subject of a local documentary. man I always wanted to be,” said Becerra. helping participants develop their stories “Can the power of words change your The speakers, Tanya Payne and Tony destiny? It is a proven story. We know Becerra, participated in the original diary- from the Freedom Writers that the method writing project that was dramatized in the does work,” said Kuffner. feature film Freedom Writers about inner Kuffner previously made the docu- city teens at a Long Beach, Calif., high mentary Running Against Crime, based school. They were inspired by their on the North Central Family Centre teacher, Erin Gruwell, to transcend racism Marathon Run to implement an anti-gang and violence through their writing. strategy. “You have to be willing at some point Payne and Berecca spoke highly of to make your own choices. Everything in the documentary. life is a fight, and education is your ammu- “These kids are so inspiring to me. I nition. Education is evidence of work in want them to sign the DVD. They’re your life,” Payne told a crowd of more heroes to me. They ran a marathon,” said than 240 students and members of Becerra. community groups. “They should be proud of the Mayor Pat Fiacco and several marathon and extrapolate it to the rest of corporate sponsors also attended the May their lives,” said Payne. 27 luncheon at the Queensbury Conven- After the fundraiser, Becerra and tion Centre. Payne signed copies of their book before speaking to another crowd of more than Payne captivated the crowd with her Tony Becerra, Glen Prettyshield and Tanya Payne with the Freedom Writers diary. life story. 500 students, including Glen Prettyshield, “My father used to say, ‘a good Regina filmmaker, Lori Kuffner, into a book form like The Freedom a youth worker at North Central Family education will take you farther than your hopes to recreate the Freedom Writers’ Writers Diary, the compilation of student Centre and a participant in the writing feet.’Life isn’t about how many times you success story for Regina teens, with a pilot writings on which the film is based. project. fall down, it’s about how many times you program at the North Central Family “The kids can write stories, songs, “It’s going to be a long journey, but pick yourself back up,” said Payne. Centre. anything they want. I want them to it’ll be fun,” Prettyshield said. 4 Eagle Feather News JUNE 2009 Readers Forum Humour, family keep us going

veryJunewhenpreparations I’m the kind of guy who has to do beginforNationalAboriginal things.IfelloffmyquadlastMonday Day, we at Eagle Feather and bruised some ribs. But I am not Newsliketoreflectonthepeopleand going to let a mosquito bite slow me Ethe spirit that have kept us going, down.” throughallkindsofhardships,forthe Delormeadmitsthatthehardest pastcenturies.TheysaytheAborigi- part has been adjusting to his lack of nal people of this territory have mobilityandothernormalactivities. survived through their hard work, “Notdoingtheregularfunctions family and, when times are really for yourself on a day to day basis … tough,theirsenseofhumour. therearealotofthingsthatamantakes I recently had the pleasure of for granted. It is a real mind game to meeting a gentleman who encom- staypositive.Istayedpositiveandhad passedallofthosecharacteristics.Stan lotsofsupport.Jenniferwasgreat.She Delormeis a member of Cowessess wentthrougheverythingwithme.” FirstNationandistheirlandmanager Through the entire ordeal, Stan and also runs a successful outfitting hadhiswife,JenniferPelletier,beside company.Whatsetshimapartisthat him and a big group of family and for the past two years, Stan has been friendsthathelpedwiththeadjustment. relearninghowtoliveandhowtorun Jenniferquitherjob,theguidesinthe hiscompanyfromawheelchair. outfittingbusinessdidmorework,and Inthesummerof2007Stanwas Stanranthebusinessfromhischair. bittenbyatinymosquito.Hedoesnot Ithasbeendifficulttoadjustand evenrememberwhenhewasbit,but therehavebeenmanytears,butthere he figures it was around the time he havealsobeenlotsoflaughs. sawhisfarmerneighbourwhilehewas “We have learned to count on out chasing horses and fixing fence. each other,” said Stan of Jennifer. Stancheckedintothehospitalseveral “When I rolled the chairs, I laughed, dayslaterbecausehelosthisbalance shecried.” andhadmassivechillsandfever. “But I had to pull the chairs off He had brushed it off as heat him,”laughedJennifer. stroke. He was wrong. A diagnosis And Stan has learned some life Stan Delorme’s life changed dramatically but with the help of wife, Jennifer, he’s coping well. came ten days later.It wasWest Nile lessons. virus,andhisneighbourcheckedinto “I don’t panic anymore. My thesamehospitaltwodayslaterwith buddysawmefalloffmyquadandhe thesameaffliction. panickedsobadhecouldnotdialhis How to avoid mosquito bites Bythattime,Stancouldnotwalk. phone.Irolledaround,pulledoutmy The virus attacked his muscle tissue phoneanddialedforhelp.Ihaveway to skin under your clothing. andnerveendings,severelyaffecting more patience. I used to be rammy. f you are not feeling well, do not wait … go Place mosquito netting over infant carriers hisleftside.Hewashospitalizedfora NowIcountonhelp.” for testing. There are people right now who when you are outdoors with infants. Consider monthandthenwastransferredtothe Jenniferremarkedthattheyhave have West Nile who don’t know they have it. staying indoors at dawn, dusk, and in the early WascanaCentreforanothermonthand awholenewperspectiveonlifearound Wear long sleeved shirts and pants when you evening, which are peak mosquito biting times. a half of rehab.The doctors gave the whatpeoplesayiswheelchairacces- Ican. Install or repair window and door screens so busyandmotivatedoutdoorsmananot sibleandthatthereisabigdifference Dispose of standing water in dog dishes, that mosquitoes cannot get indoors. sogoodprognosis. betweenaccessibleandfriendly. barrels, old tires and what not. “Tothisday,theytellmeImight “Stan needs a different kind of Home remedies include using original Do you have a home remedy that is certain not walk,” says Delorme. “Four hotel room and we need a shower Listerine … the best mosquito fighter out there to repel mosquitos and maybe save someone monthsago,Isatonthebed,something bench.Theoneatthehotelhadfourtiny … spray it on you, around you … on the grass from getting the West Nile Virus? Send it in toldmetogetup…soIdidandwalked slatsacrossandStanisabigman,soit when you BBQ or have a fire at night. to [email protected] or fax it to outofthebedroom.Ihavegonefrom wouldnotwork,”addedJennifer.“We Spray clothing with repellents containing 306-978-8117. being completely dependant on my hadlotsofstumbles,butwemadeit.” permethrin or another EPA-registered repellent We will test the remedies we can and we power chair to now,with a walker,I TothisdayStanisopenandvery since mosquitoes may bite through thin clothing. have movie passes and a Safeway gift certifi- can go 150 paces or so and by fall I pragmaticabouthissituation.Youcan Do not apply repellents containing permethrin cate for the best mosquito recipe. should be able to be away from the tell he loves his family and they love directly to exposed skin. Do not apply repellent walkerforahalfhourorso. himandheknowsitcouldbeworse. “But if this is it, this is it. I am “Isawlotsofpeopleinthehospital happy where I am at. Compared to whenIsharedaroomthatdidnothave lying on your back and not knowing thesupportIdid,”saidDelorme.“With whatisgoingon.Icanlivewiththis.” thatsupport,Iamgood.AndIstillget Till then, he is having trouble todowhatIloveandIamnotlyingon masteringwheelchairs. mybackinahospitalbed.OnceIwas “The power chair is something atthatpoint,Ifigureditcouldonlyget thatyouhavetolearntooperate.” betterfromhere.” He learned the hard way by Family,hard work and humour rollinghissixwheeler. arecertainlycrucialelementsinthelife “Itisnotaseasyaspeoplethink. ofStanDelorme.Thereisalessonto Irolledamanualchair,mypowerchair. belearnedfromhimandhisfamily. JUNE 2009 Eagle Feather News 5 There’s nothing ‘free’ about Treaty Rights

’ve been teaching for over 21 years So what did we have a long time ago to not take up arms against the Crown these rights in exchange for sharing the and am getting sick and tired of that our Treaty forefathers sought to and its people, and we agreed to share the land and resources. hearing people say that Treaty protect during the Treaty negotiations? land and resources. We did not agree to Our Treaty Rights to education, Indians get “free” education, medicare, We had all those things that all give up the land or resources, nor did we social assistance, medicare and tax Itax exemption, hunting rights etc etc. nations have –we had our own societies agree to give anything else up – in other exemption are RIGHTS. They are not How many of us have heard non- each with our languages, cultures, words, we did not give up our right to “free.” Our Treaty forefathers and all the Indians sneer or argue that, “You Indians religious or spiritual beliefs; our own self-government. generation since the Treaties were nego- don’t have to pay for anything, you get laws governing social relationships, During the Treaty negotiations we tiated, including our generation and those everything for free!” inter-national were promised that to follow, gave up and continue to give What’s really disheartening though relations, and our we could continue up a lot in exchange for these rights. is hearing our own people saying they relationship to the our ways of life. Every day we see multinational get “free” education or medicare. land and all living And so the Treaty corporations plunder our traditional terri- If we are serious about self-determi- things; our own Rights to hunt, tories and take out billions of dollars nation and self-government, we need to education systems, fish, trap and worth of renewable and non-renewable act and speak from a place of strength. systems of govern- gather (for subsis- resources. We need to better understand our rela- ment; our own ways tence and for We only agreed to share the land and tionship with the Crown and what of making a living; trade) for example, resources, we did not agree to give them “Treaty Rights” mean from the perspec- our own territorial are promises made up, yet we get no compensation. So, tives of our Elders. land bases and the military capacities to to us that these inherent rights would be honestly, who is really getting something Over the years I’ve been taught that defend our peoples, lands and ways of protected – it was a promise to protect for free in this country? there are two kinds of Treaty Rights – life. something we already had. No one The kinds of language we use and those that protect our inherent rights, or Who we are and our ways of life are “gave” us those rights. How can you the way we speak about Aboriginal what we already have that were given to gifts from the Creator. No one “gave” give a people something they already Rights and Treaty Rights are very us from the Creator; and those that are them to us. We were independent and have? important because language tells a lot ago’aadiwin, those rights that are “over self-governing, meaning, we supported The Treaty Right to education, social about how people think. and above” what we already have. ourselves and exercised jurisdiction over assistance, medicare and tax exemption Using the term “free” when we talk This is what our Treaty forefathers all aspects of our own lives. for example, are over and above our about Treaty Rights, tells the world that negotiated for to ensure that we had the Did we give any of those things up inherent rights. Our Treaty forefathers we bought into the colonialist idea that means to protect our ways of life and to at Treaty time? The Treaty Elders tell us negotiated for these extras to ensure our the Crown gives us these things for adjust to changing times. that of all those things, we only agreed future. And they paid dearly to secure “free,” that these are “gifts.” Important days help us think about what we value

eople like to celebrate once in a as a country, and to symbolize what the Indigenous peoples in Canada, who are Where does that come from? while. Entire countries have matters to us. We might think that official officially called ‘Aboriginal peoples’ in In the not-so-old days Canada and the national celebrations. People also days are building blocks of our national the Constitution. This is not something to other former British colonies took over the like to remember. And so many countries culture. In that regard, National Aborigi- be left to the appointed judges in court land of the original inhabitants by using Phave days of remembrance. nal Day, which we celebrate on the date of cases or to the government of the day the excuse that their God had dictated that Official ‘days’ can work to build the summer solstice, the first day of which rules Parliament in Ottawa. farmers were morally superior to hunters, community by getting people to unite in summer and the longest day of the year on It is something that must reflect the trappers and fishermen and were therefore ceremonies that bind people together. June 21 may mean more than a day off country itself, and the people who live in entitled to take their lands and use them to Community rememberings can be the very from work. it. Honouring and grow things. The official idea used was strong social glue of nationalism, reaching The National understanding the that it was right to take lands that were back generations and millennia into the Indian Brotherhood place of Indigenous empty and belonged to no one: terra past. proposed a National peoples is especial- nullius. This month of June is seeing a few Day back in 1982, ly important where This was, of course, a fiction since examples of common rememberings. as did Elijah we have a high rate there were a lot of people here. What this There is, on June 6, the 65th anniversary Harper’s Sacred of immigration and idea really meant was that the people who of D-Day in Normandy where the tide was Assembly and also where many lived here did not matter in law or in turned to end the Second World War and the Royal Commis- newcomers have morality. where so many Canadians served and sion on Aboriginal Peoples in its 1995 final little or no understanding of the rights of Since farmers were better than sacrificed. report. Before the report was officially the original owners of the Canadian lands hunters, the hunters did not matter. The June 11 will mark the first anniversary released by the federal government in and waters that come to us from history. idea being a fiction, it was applied even in of the Prime Ministerial Apology to Indian November 1996, the acceptance of the idea There are not only legal rights and places where in fact the Indigenous people Residential School survivors and their of a national day was announced in June political interests at stake. There is the need were farmers in their own lands. families. The marking of this day parallels 1996 by the Romeo Le Blanc the for mutual understanding among ordinary So you might think that no one ‘Sorry Day’ in Australia, which was estab- Governor-General, with the goal of people. There are interesting ideas that lurk believes this today. Everyone respects lished at the end of the mandate of the ‘honouring Aboriginal people’. in the rhetoric of everyday talk used by Aboriginal people, right? If so, why must Australian Reconciliation Commission in A day like that gives all Canadians a everyday people that tell us a bit about how we be elevated, by the power of language, 2000, well before the official apology of chance to reflect on why Aboriginal people Indigenous people are really viewed in into morally worthy farmers who have Prime Minister Rudd in February 2008. matter in Canada, and what might be done Canada. ‘harvesting’ rights? Why can we not be Assembly of First Nations Chief Phil to make Canada a place where the original Let me throw out one little expression recognized as being worthy of legally Fontaine has called upon all Canadians to peoples upon whose lands the country has for today. It is ‘harvesting’, which is used recognizable rights as hunters who hunt? join in ‘National Day of Reconciliation” been built are part of the vision of a just to refer to fishing and trapping and hunting National Days are good things to start ceremonies. society. rights. If you listen to the talk about the us thinking about how we behave, how we There is, I think, another reason for It is widely accepted that Canada must legal cases on ‘aboriginal rights’ you are speak, and what we value. official days. It is to show what we value improve its vision of where is the place of sure to hear the word ‘harvesting rights’. Ekosi 6 Eagle Feather News JUNE 2009 Aboriginal peoples have become the elephant in the living room

uring the rule of Queen oppressive colonial past. Until this is Victoria, the First Nations understood little will change beyond people of the prairie the assumptions of the past. provinces made Treaty with the most It is impossible to solve a Dpowerful nation on earth. In the nine- problem using the same thinking that teenth century Great Britain’s created it. The problem is not poverty, colonies around the globe were so addictions nor crime and real answers extensive it could be rightfully said can not be found until real questions the sun never set on the British are asked. Empire. In contrast the First Nations people entered Treaty devastated but not defeated. The end of the great buffalo herds and raging epidemics such as small pox had nearly destroyed them. After the second world war Great Britain went into a decline it has never recovered from. Former colonies became independent nations When negotiation replaces consul- and England’s rule was eclipsed by tation things may change. the rising super powers of the Soviet The following questions may be Union and the United States. asked. How does it affect a First By 1921 Canada’s entire First Nations child when all the people Nation population had dwindled to with power in their lives are non- around 10,000 people. North Aboriginals? What few role models American Indians, with some justifi- beyond social workers and politi- cation, were regarded as “the cians do they really have? vanishing race” powerless and largely There is a deep and dangerous irrelevant. But all of that was about divide between Aboriginals and non- to change. Aboriginals within this province. Improved health care resulted in Communities who have lived side by a population rise beyond anyone’s side for over 100 years still know expectation. The First Nations popu- little about each other. There are lation rebounded to the point where the population at the turn of this Indian and non-Indian institutions century was about the same as with very little meaningful commu- estimates of the pre-contact period. nication between them. These numbers are not only rising but The non-Aboriginals, for the accelerating. most part, still behave as though they Current Stats Canada figures have the answers to Aboriginal show that between 1996 and 2006 problems. They don’t. Saskatchewan’s First Nation popula- The best hope for tion rose by 29 per cent. Saskatchewan’s future is to learn Saskatchewan First Nation citizens from, support and further develop will also make up at least 30 per cent those initiatives where people of of the entire Saskatchewan popula- diverse cultures and good hearts tion by 2017. These figures don’t work together in a healthy way. include the province’s large Métis The good change will come population. when Aboriginal and non-Aborigi- First Nations citizens have nal men and women work together become the elephant in the living sharing power as equals. room. Impossible to ignore and increasing in influence and power. This positive modeling will not A social shift is taking place now only benefit the Aboriginal child but and in the future that will change equally important it will also benefit Saskatchewan as we know it. First the non-Aboriginal child. Nations will no longer be consulted The Union Jack flies alongside in matters affecting just them but will the Canadian flag and the eagle staff rather exercise power in the day to is still held proudly wherever First day running of Saskatchewan’s Nations people gather in council and industry, government and social insti- celebration. tutions. Great Britain’s flag no longer The days of Chiefs going hat in waves over an empire but as the hand to the Indian agent are long Treaty Flag it is still a symbol of gone. what could hopefully become a The most pressing problem beautiful future between two facing Saskatchewan today is the peoples. social chaos created by a dark and JUNE 2009 Eagle Feather News 7 NUCLEAR POWER IN SASKATCHEWAN ... THE DEBATE CONTINUES Let’s consider the reality Review of

t this moment, people around the world are producer is based on a partnership between industry heating their homes, cooking their dinner, and Northerners. and powering their computers with electric- The continued growth of the industry is directly summaries ity generated from uranium mined in Northern related to the commitment of a skilled northern work ASaskatchewan. force. Fifty per cent of mine site employees are Northern Saskatchewan has many resources and residents of Saskatchewan’s North. This employ- this is one such way it directly adds to the global ment translates into millions of dollars in wages and energy supply and the worldwide effort to reduce benefits each year for Northern families. As well, earns support greenhouse gas emissions. joint programs have been developed to support Uranium is the fuel source for generating nuclear young Northerners through scholarships, education energy. Northern Saskatchewan is a world leader in programs, and career fairs. askatchewan has my vote for exploring the uranium mining; producing over 20 per cent of the Industry and northern suppliers work together option of going nuclear.We hear almost on for local goods and services, Northern entrepreneurs world’s supply in 2008. Once the uranium has been a daily basis about ‘global warming’, and have developed businesses that support industry mined and milled in Northern Saskatchewan, it is air pollution from coal burning fire plants. sent to Ontario where it is processed. A portion of needs, creating local opportunities for residents and These coal plants spew tremendous amounts this fuel is kept in Canada to power Canadian developing resources for future generations. S reactors, while 80 per cent is shipped to reactors Northern communities have been vocal about of carbon dioxide into our atmosphere, and around the world. There are over 430 reactors industry and have played an integral part in shaping contribute to global warming. currently providing energy to millions of households the industry’s presence. Northern leaders, youth, and The pundits of this subject always highlight and businesses throughout the world. In the United elders have contributed to the progression of the the negative aspects of nuclear power generation, industry’s development through panel hearings, States alone, nuclear energy powers one in five but I encourage your readers to get some roundtables, and information sessions. homes. knowledge on coal plants. Coal plants constant- Over the past decade, the term ‘nuclear renais- The views and concerns of Northerners are ly eject ‘radon’ from its stacks. Radon is a sance’ has become a phrase among political, envi- respected and valued and have shaped the success of nuclear product, and depending on the vicinity ronmental, and media circles. This is due to the dual the industry. It is this partnership between Northern advantage of nuclear energy’s ability to mass Saskatchewan and industry that has allowed of these plants to metropolitan areas, people can produce reliable energy without emitting greenhouse Saskatchewan to lead the world in uranium produc- breathe in radon progeny and contribute to gases. Nuclear energy is considered a major source tion, and serves as an example of how further coop- increased risk of lung cancer. for future, clean energy generation and because of eration can contribute to developing a new era of On the other side of the coin, nuclear power uranium development success in the province. this Northern Saskatchewan is expected to play a plants emit zero pollution into the air. I will not Gary Merasty major role in supplying the fuel for this future. downplay the byproducts created with nuclear Industry cannot operate in isolation and Northern Vice-President Corporate reactions, but these facilities have been in Saskatchewan’s global achievement as a uranium Social Responsibility Cameco existence for quite some time. Operators of these power plants are heavily regulated, and controls are in place to limit the byproducts from escaping these facilities. The element uranium is ubiquitous in our Our taxes subsidize environment, and we cannot escape radioactivi- ty. I had worked in the uranium mining industry for over seven years. Limiting a person’s exposure to as low as reasonably achievable is the number one goal of these mines. nuclear industry in Canada The average Canadian receives a radiation dose of between 2 – 4 mSv (milliseiverts) per year from the general environment. Yet, working he Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce has Renewable Energy Task Force to present the facts at the uranium mines in Northern Saskatchewan unveiled portions of their marketing about renewable energy. only contributes marginally to the above campaign to promote a nuclear reactor in If we could convince our provincial government numbers. Saskatchewan. Their website states they want to to take the next logical and prudent step, establish I do not have information on exposures from an Expert Renewable Energy Task Force, to Tbring us the facts, not the myths about nuclear nuclear power plants, but I would assume that carefully examine these growing energy sources. energy. these numbers would also be quite low. The Then we would have the information required to The other day I heard Steve McLellan, CEO of benefits of nuclear power generation for the Chamber of Commerce, on the John Gormley look critically at both nuclear and renewable energy Saskatchewan far outweigh the risks. radio program. He said, “We cannot consider alter- and choose a future energy supply that makes the I had reviewed the summaries of the Uranium native energy sources because the wind does not most sense for Saskatchewan. Development Partnership, and I would support always blow and the sun does not always shine so It’s your tax bill that will subsidize the nuclear alternative energy sources cannot provide base industry, so pick up the phone, contact your local their findings. We have an opportunity to explore power.” MLA and demand that we see an Expert Assessment new options in this province. That’s a myth. There are no less than six viable of Renewal Energy before any decisions are made Let’s move forward not backwards. ways to store energy from wind and solar. Once you on a nuclear reactor. Respectfully, store energy it can be drawn on demand to provide Yours truly, Randy Natomagan base power. I don’t expect Steve or John to know James Zimmerman, Meota this because we have not commissioned an Expert 8 Eagle Feather News - Health JUNE 2009 Indian Hospitals: Racial segregation in Canada?

By Maureen Lux the mid-1940s, consisted of bed rest and chest surgery people, the hospitals were their ‘own’ institutions where For Eagle Feather News in a tuberculosis sanatorium. they would not be treated as second-class citizens, and anadians only gradually understood the horrors The Fort Qu’Appelle sanatorium, known as ‘Fort where community members found health care training of residential schools as survivors struggled to San,’ opened in 1917 and relied on federal government and employment. Removed from reserves, many have their voices heard. We preferred to listen to payments to treat returning First World War soldiers. hospitals were converted residential schools, like those responsible for the tragic history, government and But Fort San’s more than 300 beds were reserved for Coqualeetza in B.C. and Dynevor in Manitoba, or hastily Cchurch bureaucrats, who reassured us that with their ‘taxpayers’ or white patients, although it maintained a renovated army buildings like North Battleford and ‘good intentions’ they knew what was best for Aborigi- 40 bed “Indian wing” for a time to pay its debts to the Charles Camsell in Edmonton. nal people. federal government. And after 1953 the Indian Act was amended by the It wasn’t until students and their supporters spoke Other provincial sanatoriums in the West simply ‘Indian Health Regulations’ to force medical examina- out that the true story emerged. There is another story refused to admit Aboriginal patients. And throughout the tion and treatment; to compel people to go to hospital; that needs to be told. West and North, local hospitals kept separate “Indian and to force people to stay in hospital. In the 1960s the In the late 1930s and 1940s, the Canadian govern- wards” or annexes. Especially after the 1940s, Canadians government, anxious to end its commitment and ment built and operated a number of hospitals in the west willingly paid to experience life’s great events – birth ‘integrate’ care into local hospitals, met stiff resistance specifically for Aboriginal people. By 1960 there were and death - in hospital. Anxious to attract the middle class from communities that saw the institutions as a tangible 22 racially segregated ‘Indian’ hospitals in Canada. At paying patient, hospitals relegated the poor, Aboriginal recognition of the treaty right to health care. the time the government was careful to point out that its people, and Chinese and Japanese patients to basement Community leaders pressed for culturally appropri- interest was merely humanitarian, it was not a recogni- wards or separat e buildings. ate health care on reserves. tion of any treaty right to health care. In 1936 the federal government built the Fort Qu’Ap- The story of racially segregated health care is not Far from it. Instead, bureaucrats argued, Aboriginal pelle Indian hospital. It was an unusual departure for the clearly understood. people should have the same health care as other government to become involved in the direct delivery of Were ‘Indian hospitals’ valuable institutions, or an Canadians, so it constructed separate hospitals. hospital care, preferring, as with its education policy, to example of racial intolerance, or both? The history of health care for Aboriginal people in leave it to missionar- Canada is not an honourable story. Some of the contin- ies. But increasing uing health problems in Aboriginal communities can be fears about the spread linked to that past. Residential schools, for instance, were of tuberculosis, from a particularly dangerous place for children for a number reserve to town, of reasons, but especially because of diseases that spread prompted the new through the schools. Indian hospital. Dr Peter Bryce, the chief medical officer of depart- Elders at Pasqua ment of Indian Affairs in 1907, found that the death rate also recall that a dele- among students in schools or immediately after discharge gation traveled to was 69 per cent. Schools sent many gravely ill children Ottawa to pressure the home rather than have them die at the school, which government for better quickly spread disease, especially tuberculosis, to hospital care. In the reserves. next ten years the Tuberculosis, a disease of the poorly housed and government opened 21 poorly fed, found many victims in schools and reserves. other racially segre- While it can attack any organ of the body, tuberculosis gated hospitals. is most commonly a lung disease. Most often Treatment, before the development of antibiotics in welcomed by the JUNE 2009 Eagle Feather News - Health 9 Natural ways of healing always work the best

t has been said that a Nation is not natural way to eliminate stress, fear, and 7) Yawning – this is the body’s way us, our minds open to change and our conquered until the hearts of its it brings a chemical change for of oxygenating itself, especially in hearts open to love. women are on the ground. I’m releasing hormones. nervous situations and when tired, it June 21 is National Aboriginal Day proud to say my heart is still in my chest 2) Laughing – this is just pure good gives the body energy and prepares for and there will be events happening Iwhere it belongs. medicine, you will notice that people rest. across Canada to recognize the contri- I have been fortunate to meet often laugh when in nervous or tense My personal favourite is laughing. butions of Aboriginal people. I incredible women in my lifetime and I situations or to cover up pain that they I am so thankful that an old dog like me encourage all Eagle Feather News am always amazed at their resiliency aren’t ready to deal with or to release can still learn. I have been fortunate in readers to participate in their local and no matter what obstacles they have the pain that they my life and the National Aboriginal Day festivities. faced they get up and press on. have recognized. Creator has I don’t want our Aboriginal men The women in my family have 3) Yelling – is blessed me with feeling left out, so I say hats off to our been through so much but the obstacles a natural reaction four daughters. men who respect their women and take haven’t kept them down. As a result, when startled, I wish for care of their children. Thank you for every time I think I can’t make it when stressed, them a world coaching our children’s hockey teams, through another day I think of their when we feel high where they will be soccer teams and for doing whatever it struggles and mine don’t seem too anxiety our voices respected as takes because you love your family – difficult. start to rise. women and givers we love you too. Remember the expression, 4) Sweating – of life. A world To the women in my life I say thank “Laughter is the best medicine.” this is a natural way to release stress where they can walk down the street you for the example you have set for us, How true. Thank you to my Cree- hormones, pheromones are released with their heads held high without fear, thank you for your strength. To our Anishnabe friend for sharing the when in reproductive cycle and our a world that honours their culture. readers thank you for your letters and following teaching with me – she has Sacred bath in Mother Earth’s womb. I accept that I have a responsibili- emails it’s always great hearing from been teaching Medicine Wheel classes 5) Shaking – this is a natural way ty to teach them and I recognize that you. for 15 years. to de-stress tension our muscles, the they have things to teach me. I believe If you have a health related “People are often confused by fight or flight reaction to fear, a natural that together we will make the world a question that you would like me to emotions and they use descriptive way for our bodies to warm itself. better place for our future generations. research or a story to share drop me a words that are often reaction. I use this 6) Talking – this promotes every- We may not have control over line at Eagle Feather News c/o Sandee in my group when we get to the thing a human being needs to survive, everything in our lives but we have the Sez PO Box 924 Station Main emotions stage,” she said. often people will talk when nervous, opportunity to influence changes in our Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7K 3M4 or The Creator gave us seven ways of scared, expressing an emotion (no children and grandchildren and thereby send me an email to natural healing; wonder why people are always sick – our future. We need to greet each day [email protected] 1) Crying – this is the body’s we are always told to shut up) with our eyes open to the beauty around Until next month. Ekosi.

Saskatoon’s Aboriginal Day celebrations a day early

This year marks the tenth year that the protect their community and Nation. The Saskatoon Indian & Métis Friendship committee wants to acknowledge and Centre has proudly hosted Saskatoon’s commend the hard work and commitment National Aboriginal Day Celebrations. shown on a daily basis by these dedicated For a decade, SIMFC, together with individuals. the National Aboriginal Day Committee These people include Saskatoon –which is comprised of a growing number Police Service, Ambulance services, of community partners – has worked dili- Saskatoon Fire & Protection Services, and gently to showcase and celebrate Aborig- the many men and women in the Canadian inal culture, music, food in the tradition- Forces serving all over the world. al way of welcoming everyone to join in You’re invited to come out and the gathering. honour the men and women who serve Organizers expect approximately and protect us, our families and our 2,500 people to attend and all activities, community. entertainment, and soup and bannock will be provided free. This year the event will be held on Saturday, June 20, from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in Friendship Park in downtown Saskatoon. The National Aboriginal Day Planning Committee wish to honour all of the men and women who serve and 10 Eagle Feather News - Health JUNE 2009 CHEP and Friendship Centre working together to ?ght poverty

HEP Good Food and the Saskatoon Indian & Métis Friend- ship Centre (SIMFC) are two United Way agencies that are working together to address issues including homelessness, poverty and hunger. CIn January, CHEP Good Food no longer had a home to pack their Good Food Boxes. The two agencies decided to work together with SIMFC offering a home to CHEP. CHEP now packs its Good Food Boxes at the gym at SIMFC which sees 750 boxes of approximately 15,000 pounds of afford- able, healthy food each packing day go out to depots in the community. But the partnership does not end there. CHEP and SIMFC are now providing hot suppers three to five times a week at the SIMFC to feed people who have no option for a meal at supper time. Since this program has started, they have seen the people who attend the supper meal, come back to help pack the Good Food Boxes for CHEP. This ongoing partnership between CHEP and the SIMFC is Priscilla McNab and camp co-ordinator Michelle Biden in the First Nations University lab. helping to build bridges between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal (Photo by Nicole Bear) people. “This partnership is possible with the flexibility of United Way funding,” says Karen Archibald, Executive Director of CHEP Good First Nations University to host Food. “By providing operating dollars, it allows agencies the flexi- bility to adapt to needed programs throughout the year, not just based on the granting time period. This has allowed CHEP to work with the Saskatoon Indian & Métis Friendship Centre to strengthen rela- 2009 health and science camp tionships and continue to provide healthy, affordable food to the community of Saskatoon. By Nicole Bear pursue careers in health and science. “I believe one of the best ways to partner is to work together on For Eagle Feather News The students participating in the camp are a common issue, to build understanding and commitment to each he science department at the First Nations mostly aboriginal teens in grades eight to 12 from other.” University of Canada is hosting the 2009 Regina and across the province. In the past, there Health and Science Camp to highlight have also been students from Alberta, Manitoba, indigenous and western concepts of health and B.C. and some northern territories. Tscience in a learning environment. Priscilla McNab is from George Gordon First “There will be some Elder involvement Nation. She attended the camp for two years in almost every day, whether that’s teaching or doing 1998 and 2000, when she was 13 and 15. a walk or a plant activity,” says camp co-ordinator “W e did like the CSI kind of investigation at Michelle Biden. the U of R. That was really fun. I’ll never forget Biden says the camp starts and ends with a that,” McNab says. prayer from an Elder. During the camp, students Other activities that McNab participated in will be doing activities in the lab such as dissect- at the camp were visits to the IMAX and the ing owl pellets (vomit) and testing the pH of lake Science Centre, a scavenger hunt outside the city, water. Laser Quest and a tour of the science department The students will also go on walks outside in at the University of Regina. the prairie area and make a visit to the Four Direc- When she attended the camp, she said that tions Community Health Centre, where they will there was not as much of a health focus or Elder Karen Archibald, Executive Director of CHEP, discusses food learn to suture pigs’ feet. There will also be involvement as there is now. packing day with SIMFC Board member Preston Parranto. presentations and information sessions on how to “I really appreciate that,” McNab says (Photo by John Lagimodiere) JUNE 2009 Eagle Feather News - Health 11 100 per cent pure passion from First Nations entrepreneur

By Trelle Burdeniuk combines both exercise and nutrition into For Eagle Feather News an individual plan for each client. This aimee Marks is a First Nations entre- means Marks’ customers have the support preneur with a contagious passion for of both a nutritionist and personal trainer fitness, nutrition and people that she in the same person. She even offers to go turned into the successful business, One grocery shopping with a client for free to JHundred Percent Pure Fitness. help them learn better eating habits, which Her passion is apparent from the aisles to avoid and how to read labels. moment you walk into her studio and see One of Marks’ clients, Victoria the crisp, hardwood floors, bright blue Gubbels, went to One Hundred Percent exercise balls, soft lighting and her Pure Fitness to find a serious exercise brilliant smile. program and build up muscle. But she Marks is a determined Aboriginal stayed for the one-on-one attention and woman and said she never denies who she warm environment Marks created. is or where she came from. “I really like that personal touch of “I am First Nations and I know what coming and having Jaimee entertain us it is like to be on the reserve and I know with her stories,” said Gubbels. “It’s like what it is like to live in North Central a little family down here.” (Regina) and just because we live there Marks hopes to take her knowledge doesn’t mean that we are what the media to the streets and give back to the Aborig- says we are. inal community. She would like to teach adults and children on reserves about “We are passionate, powerful and Exercise instructor Jaimee Marks (right) helps client Victoria Gubbels at Marks’s nutrition and achieving their dreams. we’re successful,” she said. Regina studio, One Hundred Percent Pure Fitness. (Photo by Trelle Burdeniuk) Marks’s desire to start a fitness Marks said she wants to share her business stemmed from her own circum- She gathered information from more “There is a misconception out there knowledge, passion and grit to show stances. When Marks weighed 210 than 1,000 books because she wanted to that because you are Aboriginal, there is Aboriginal people that it can be done. pounds, she struggled to find outside learn everything she could about fitness a lot of free money. There isn’t,” Marks “No matter how many doors slam support to lose the weight. She went to and nutrition. She applied this knowledge said. closed in your face, you can do it,” said nutritionists and trainers and found no to her own situation and within eight “I applied to a lot of places and every- Marks. personal connection. months lost 70 pounds. Marks wanted to where I went, they turned me down.” If you would like more information, “They literally just shoved me in the help others live a healthier lifestyle and Marks did not let this discourage her contact Jaimee Marks at 737-FITT (3488) door, took my money ... and shoved me decided to open her own business in and she even collected pop bottles and back out the door,” she said. Regina. donations to make her dream a reality. or visit This motivated her to branch out and This decision brought challenges, One Hundred Percent Pure Fitness www.100perc entpurefitness.com solve the problem herself. especially on the financial side. Roundtable addresses Métis health issues

s recent health data has indicated, Métis people suffer three to five times more incidences of chronic disease such as diabetes, arthritis, asthma, cancer and mental illness than the average Canadian. To help allay these drastic numbers and to get Métis people more engaged in the Ahealth field, many health officials and Métis leaders met for a day in May to discuss ways to move forward together by sharing information and finding ways to collabo- rate on programs, services and funding agencies. Under the Health Canada initiative Aboriginal Health Transition Fund, the MN- S receives funds to work with healthcare officials to adapt the current system to meet the needs of Métis through improved access to services, better relationships between caregivers and patients, and input into design and delivery and evaluation of health programs and services. Attending on behalf of the MN-S was the entire executive and the PMC. Provin- cial Minister of Health Don McMorris was also in attendance along with the heads of every health district in Saskatchewan.

Sharing information and discussing ways to improve the health of Métis people was on the minds of people attending a day long session in Elk Ridge recently. 12 Eagle Feather News - Governance JUNE 2009 JUNE 2009 Eagle Feather News - Governance 13 Nation building seminar a huge success

“We were pleasantly surprised with success also committed to separating There was also very strong recom- the enthusiasm for this type of executive politics from business in their decision mendations for First Nations in education,” said Vern Bachiu, CEO of the making processes and having the juris- Saskatchewan to get out of the strangle- Saskatchewan Labour Market Commis- diction to do so. hold of the Indian Act, to start exercising sion. The second day of the seminar jurisdiction and to start building their own “It goes to prove that there is a strong focused on community-owned enterpris- constitutions that are aligned with their desire by the Aboriginal leadership in this es and citizen-owned (private) enterpris- nation’s cultures in a contemporary sense. province and that they are open and es and the essential need for keeping The final message was that in order searching for models, best practices and politics out of day- to-day management, for Aboriginal nations to be successful strategies to rebuild their nations,” he good governance and a neutral dispute economically, they must undergo a added. mechanism. One study concluded that change and adopt new more effective Day one of the seminar agenda “community-owned enterprises insulated governance structures. included an overview of why some from political interference are nearly five Case studies in the U.S., across Aboriginal communities are poor and times as likely to be profitable.” Canada and around the world have proven others more successful. Key findings from An American Indian Tribe located in time and again that you cannot enjoy over 20 years of study by the Harvard Nebraska adopted the new model and saw economic success without effective lead- Manley Begay was one of the presen- Indian Project (Harvard University) and its unemployment rate drop from 75 per ership, effective governance and ters at a two-day seminar the Native Nations Institute (University cent to 13 per cent. In another example, economic policies that are aligned and he Saskatchewan Labour Market of Arizona) were shared by co-facilitators Chief Phillip Martin of the Mississippi structured properly. Commission, in a unique partner- Manley Begay Jr. (Navajo) and Joe Kalt, Band of Choctaw Indians is quoted of Aboriginal nations must have the ship with the First Nations Univer- leading researchers and professors in the saying “it used to be, everyone was decision-making powers to make their sity of Saskatchewan, Gabriel Dumont area. leaving. Now they’re coming home.” own decisions about their futures. TInstitute, University of Saskatchewan The facilitators covered the standard The session included a focus on roles “In short, leaders make choices, and Indigenous Land Management Institute, approach to development and compared and responsibilities of councils. Begay their choices matter. Effective nation Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Tech- it to the Nation-Building approach and and Kalt referred to it as one of the biggest building depends on the choices they nologies and the Office of the Treaty defined the differences between self- governance problems faced by Aborigi- make,” said Kalt. Commissioner, hosted the Nation administration versus self-rule. Case nal nations. They recommended that Begay also added that “it is clear from Building Seminar: Leadership, Gover- studies were shared with the audience to elected leaders should focus their time and research throughout the world that when nance, and Economic Policy executive profile what Aboriginal nations are doing energies on making laws, protecting the jurisdiction or decision-making powers is education session on April 29-30. to be economically self sustaining within nation’s assets, thinking strategically and placed in the hands of Indigenous people The seminar was initially planned for governance structures that are diverse but long-term, to build capacity and to attract backed up by culturally-appropriate insti- about 100 delegates but due to an over- effective. and retain their own human capital, often tutions of self-governance, successful whelmingly high demand, registration The common theme was that the referred to as Aboriginal nation’s most economic development is much more swelled to 238. Aboriginal nations that enjoyed more valuable resource. likely to take root.” 14 Eagle Feather News JUNE 2009 Michelle Hugli happy working CBC Radio’s afternoon shift

By Jarrett Crowe Dornstauder, executive producer of radio For Eagle Feather News current affairs at CBC Saskatchewan. ichelle Hugli, of Yellow Quill “Michelle has been a pleasure to work First Nation, is happy in her with. She’s very delightful and has a great new position as the host of The attitude,” Dornstauder said. Afternoon Edition on CBC Radio One. Following her 2002 graduation from MHugli, a former student of the Indian the School of Journalism at the Universi- Communication Arts (INCA) program at ty of Regina, she was recruited to be an the First Nations University of Canada, editor of Shout, an Aboriginal youth was told she had received the position in magazine. March with CBC formally announcing it “The work was challenging, we never in April. missed a deadline, and it was extremely The 29-year-old had temporarily been professional,” said Hugli. filling in for the now retired Colin Grewar. Unfortunately Shout folded due to The interview process was “the most financial reasons. Hugli went on to join Michelle Hugli in the studio at CBC Radio One. (Photo by Jarrett Crowe) intimidating I’ve ever gone through,” said News Talk Radio where she hosted The Hugli. Michelle Hugli Show, which aired on said Hugli. “Have some goals, even if they She applied for the permanent weekends. A former INCA instructor, Her experience working at CBC has change often … and work towards them position and was selected to be a part of Mervin Brass, recommended she talk to been great, said Hugli. … talk to others within the field … the short list. Facing a board of intervie- his boss at Rawlco Radio about a possible commit yourself, if interested … give it “People are committed to their jobs,” wees, Hugli answered questions of why job opportunity. she said. your all, do your best. she wanted the position, why she thought Within a week of meeting, Hugli was Hugli likes the challenge of working “Journalism is built on reputation and she would be a good host, what ideas for hired for the gig she held for about a year for CBC. She likes connecting with the exceptional work,” said Hugli. the show she had and she was asked to and a half. After leaving Rawlco Radio, people of Saskatchewan and receiving She is also glad for the experience respond to several hypothetical she sold her Regina home and planned to comments and compliments. She is in the she has received from journalism, said scenarios. explore the world. She took the temporary position she wants to be at professional- Hugli. Hugli was hired for the position project offer at CBC as a way of raising ly, and she is where she wants to be for the The Afternoon Edition airs from 4 because she brings a good skill set, is money to fund her travels, she explained. next few years, Hugli said. p.m. – 6 p.m. on CBC Radio One, 540 AM naturally curious and has a wide range of However, when the position opened, “it She also has some advice to give for across Saskatchewan, 102.5 FM in Regina experience within the field, said Paul was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up,” aspiring journalists. and 94.1 FM in Saskatoon. A safe place in a dangerous world

he core neighbourhoods of any children and their families. Their mandate city offer challenges to families is to involve the youth in activities that are and organizations that want safe educational, health related or offer places for kids to play. training opportunities to build life and job TA unique solution has been created in skills. Saskatoon by the Saskatoon Tribal Tenanats of KAP at this time are Council, Cress Housing, Communities for Communities for Children, STR-8UP, Children, the Kinsmen Club of Saskatoon CRU Youth Wellness and the Boys and and the Core Neighbourhood Youth Co- Girls Club. op. The grand opening was well attended These groups have invested in the by community members including Kinsmen Activity Place (KAP), a safe Saskatoon Mayor Don Atchison, place in the hood to provide meeting Saskatoon Tribal Council Chief Felix space, programming and opportunities for Thomas and Police Chief Clive Weighill.

Sue Delanoy of Communities for Children welcomed community members and dignitaries to the grand opening of the Kinsmen Activity Place. (Photo by Marcel Petit) JUNE 2009 Eagle Feather News - Arts & Entertainment 15 Yorkton ?lm fest a great event, too bad host city didn’t notice

he Yorkton Film Festival, North booming city like Yorkton doesn’t take America’s longest running event advantage of a glowing opportunity and of its kind, was held recently and make their little film festival a signature Eagle Feather News was there. event. TThoughts of a film festival may Music festivals in Craven and Merritt, conjure images of red carpets, glamour and B.C., for example, have landed the small throngs of actors, directors and producers towns on the international map. Merritt flocking to be seen at such an event. To be was dying a slow economic death and honest, I thought the small prairie city of decided to brand itself the Country Music roughly 17,000 would catch festival fever Capital of Canada. What resulted is but I soon found out it was much the twenty-five to thirty million dollars in opposite. revenue for the town over a four-day The most telling example was period during its annual music festival in stopping in at a car dealership located right the summer. next to the Festival headquarters to visit a I’m not saying Yorkton needs the buddy who works there. money or should even brand itself the Film Festival Capital of Canada but a little hype and local support would be nice. As a first time attendee, I had hoped to leave feeling like I experienced a party Yorkton style. (Above) Dennis Jackson, Instead I left feeling like this event producer, director and could have saved me a long ride home had writer of Wapos Bay poses it been held in Saskatoon. with Anand Ramaya It is not my intent to take anything away from the Festival organizers, they producer, Wapos Bay with their Golden Sheaf Awards After chatting for about 15 minutes, put on a terrific event for the film industry. he finally realized it was a little weird that What’s missing is a chance to put on a for Best Children’s I just happened to show up in Yorkton and terrific event for the City of Yorkton. Production at the Yorkton asked, “why are you here?” Wapos Bay and Dogzlyfe Take Home Film Festival after the I pointed to a large sign outside his Prestigious Golden Sheaf Awards awards ceremony. office promoting the Festival. He looked Dennis and Melanie Jackson’s award at me blankly: “Oh yeah, I heard mantle must be pretty near full. They won something about that going on.” the Golden Sheaf for Best Children’s And my irritation with the Yorkton Production at the Yorkton Film Festival Film Festival was born. It has been running for their Wapos Bay episode ‘Raiders of for over 60 years, attracts film industry the Lost Art.’ people from all over Canada and even the “I honestly did not think we would world, is one of the most respected and win anything this year,” said Dennis after revered events of its kind ... and the locals winning the award. “We were up against don’t give it the time of day. some pretty stiff competition. I’m pretty Film screenings – which are offered much speechless.” to the public for free – were sparsely As the ever-humble Mr. Jackson populated and held in what looked like a always is when it comes to being inter- classroom. The chairs were uncomfortable viewed. and the 50 inch screen paled in compari- It’s not a bad thing, however, he son to the groovy old theatre I thought I speaks with his actions, not words. And would be sitting in, spending countless Wapos Bay winning a prestigious award hours watching amazing films. isn’t a big surprise to the TV community. Other Festival events open to the It’s just another testament to their dedica- public were mostly attended by the film tion to telling good stories. industry people in town for the weekend. Dogzlyfe: Burdens of a Gangsta There was a street party on one of the Rapper won the Golden Sheaf for Best nights and the band hired was an inexpe- Aboriginal Production. Director Cory rienced, out of tune group of young chaps Generoux had the nearly impossible task who scared away more spectators than of documenting a year in the life of Robin they attracted. Favel (a.k.a Burden) as he struggled with Not that I want to take anything away gang life, jail sentences and being hassled from their effort but ... by the police. For those of you who haven’t been Generoux was fearless in his quest to there, Yorkton is actually a pretty cool little tell Favel’s story. He filmed inside the city. I like the wide streets, calm pace and Prince Albert Penitentiary, in gang territory small town vibe. in Regina’s North Central and even The city is enjoying a boom and the became involved when the Regina Police current real estate market is proof. There’s surrounded a house Favel was in and a a huge population of young hipsters who stand-off ensued. pack the local nightspots and make If you haven’t already, do yourself a Yorkton feel like downtown Toronto for a huge favour and keep your ears peeled for few hours on Saturday nights. a screening of Dogzlyfe, it’s nothing short This leaves me wondering why a of a masterpiece. 16 Eagle Feather News JUNE 2009 Circle of Honour recipients a deserving group

By Darla Read think it’s important we support each other, that we look For Eagle Feather News to those who are achieving to inspire us, and that we or the eleventh year in a row, stories of inspiration move on to become role models for the next genera- and achievement were shared one evening in tion,” Bellegarde says. Saskatoon. Although Bellegarde doesn’t see herself as a role The Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations model, she is willing to take on the challenge. FCircle of Honour Awards were handed out to recipients “It always catches me off guard, and it’s very hum- in a variety of categories including education; sports, bling when I realize others may, because I’ve always culture, and recreation; health; justice, leadership, and just tried to be true to the way that I was raised, and to humanitarian. do the things that I think are right for my family, for Leanne Bellegarde of the Kawacatoose First Na- my community, and for my people. tion was nominated for the Women’s Leadership award “And so it’s a bit daunting at times, but I’ve come by a Master’s of Business student from the school at to realize that it’s also a responsibility.” which she works. Bellegarde is the current Director of The first award presented that evening had another Aboriginal Business at the Edwards School of Business inspiring story behind it. Joel Ahenakew of the Ah- at the University of Saskatchewan. tahkahkoop Cree Nation won the Academic and She says Scholastic Achievement award. such an award Three years ago, he was diagnosed with two rare recognizes the forms of cancer and underwent three surgeries, strong women chemotherapy, and radiation. The cancer went into re- with strong mission but returned seven months later. Earlier this voices in our year it went back into remission. communities. Even with all of this going on, the Grade 11 stu- “I think dent maintained an 87 per cent average while serving as that it inspires his chief of his student council. other women The modest and courageous student says it wasn’t and young that difficult. women to con- “When I was going through the chemo, I couldn’t Leanne Bellegarde was the recipient of the Women’s tinue to take do any school or any sports or any activities like that, Leadership award. on leadership so when I was done all the chemo, and I got into school roles. Where I again, I dedicated myself a little more than I usually STC expanded from a handful of staff to five corpora- work ... at any would,” Ahenakew explained. tions employing 150 people. given time A well-known face was presented with the Life- Although he retired in 2000, he was still busy serv- there are more time Achievement Award. Joe Quewezance from the ing on the Commission on First Nations and Métis Peo- First Nations Yellow Quill First Nation has spent the past 36 years ples and Justice Reform from 2001 to 2004. He was women en- dedicating his life to bettering the lives of others also approached to run again for STC and was re- rolled in post- through government office. elected in 2005. He was elected chief of his band in 1973 and tribal Health reasons forced him to retire, again, but he Chief Joe Quewezance was presented s e c o n d a r y chief of the Saskatoon Tribal Council in 1988, a posi- still advises STC and is working with the 2010 First with a well-deserved Lifetime education than tion he held for 12 years. While under his leadership, Nations Winter Games Committee. Achievement Award. men, and so I JUNE 2009 Eagle Feather News - Education 17 Degree honours memory of late Daleen Bosse

By Darla Read For Eagle Feather News inally, a happy moment in a tragic story. At this year’s University of Saskatchewan spring convo- cation, Daleen Bosse was awarded her education degree post-humously. FHer mother, Pauline Muskego, was there to accept it on her behalf, along with Bosse’s eight-year-old daughter, Faith. Muskego says it’s nice to know her daughter’s hard work at university is being recognized. “I just think of, you know, even after a person has left this earth, they still can be honoured. And I’m thankful that my daughter’s memory is still able to be honoured.” Muskego says she was emotional when she found out about the idea. “When I was told by the ITEP program that they were doing this for us, and they were asking the U of S for permission, I just cried because it was just such an honour Herb and Pauline Muskego with Daleen Bosse’s daughter, Faith. The family accepted a degree from the for them to think of her, you know. University of Saskatchewan on behalf of their daughter who was murdered in 2004. “She had finished three years of university, she was in her fourth year when she went missing, and it was just she went missing. She always had her involved in doing hearing. an honour that they would think of her that way.” all kinds of things, ballet, and now her little girl’s in music. “We’re thankful for closure. We’re thankful that we Muskego says Bosse’s daughter has grown into a very She’s a smart little girl.” were able to lay her to rest peacefully. We’re thankful independent, smart little girl. She really wanted to accept Bosse went missing in May 2004. For the next four she’s at home, and we are thankful that we’re just able to the degree for her mom on her own but Muskego was years, the Muskegos held awareness walks about their go on. We think she would want us to just keep on living there to support her. daughter’s disappearance, as well as other missing and help other families who are going through similar “Faith wants to be a vet when she grows up, that’s all Aboriginal woman. things.” she talks about. So I told her, you know, some day you’ll A family’s worst nightmare came true when Bosse’s This summer the family is holding a memorial run be walking there yourself when you go and get your remains were found in August of last year. Since then, a that will take place in July. It was the idea of Bosse’s degree as a veternarian. man has been charged with her first degree murder and brother, Dana Muskego, and he will be the lead runner. “She’d be so proud of her. She always was proud of offering an indignity to human remains for setting her He and others will run from the site where his sister was her daughter, right from when her daughter was born until body on fire. The case is still awaiting a preliminary found near Martensville to Onion Lake Cree Nation. 18 Eagle Feather News - Education JUNE 2009 Decade since Peepeekisis Pesakastew celebrated high school graduation

By Shannon Poundmaker Most students in the File Hills area For Eagle Feather News attend school in Balcarres, which has 27 or the first time since 1999 graduates this year. Bellegarde decided Peepeekisis Pesakastew School to attend Pesakastew School on the advice will have a Grade 12 graduating of her mother, whereas Dustyhorn felt that class. the school provided an accessible FThis June, Racheal Bellegarde, 18, community environment. and Dakota Dustyhorn, 19, will celebrate Bellegarde and Dustyhorn will their academic accomplishment. receive a traditional ceremony composed “(Graduating) means getting the of an opening prayer by Elders and a song knowledge and know-how and being able complete with drummers and singers to to do whatever I want. There’s so many honour the graduates. possibilities,” said Dustyhorn. A feast, as well as a presentation, will Pesakastew School has not produced be prepared for the graduates and Christo- a graduating class in 10 years. Principal pher Bird, the last graduate from ’99, will John Koochim is “super super proud” of present the toast to the grads. Chief Bellegarde and Dustyhorn. Beverly Bellegarde, will also be in atten- “(I’m) proud of these young ones” dance. said teacher Erin Pinay. Finishing high school enables the The impact that this graduation will young adults to plan for their futures. have for the Peepeekisis First Nation is Bellegarde has just recently become a inspiring for the reserve as well as for the mother to a son named Riley. students attending Pesakastew School. Absent from school for a month after Teacher Erin Pinay with graduates Racheal Bellegarde and Dakota Dustyhorn. For Dustyhorn, this graduation means that giving birth, Bellgarde had to catch up in (Photo by Helder Carvajal) the First Nation is moving forward, and order to graduate on time. Determined to “moving on with life.” Bellegarde and Dustyhorn said the doing things right. provide assistance and support, Dustyhorn took a liking to Canadian major advantage of being the only two Pesakastew School has been unable Pesakastew School allowed Bellegarde to Studies but rather than follow in that students in Grade 12 was the individual to attract funding, teachers and senior bring her child to school. direction, he has decided to take on a attention they received. students. Low student enrollment is attrib- Bellegarde has yet to decide when to trade. Dustyhorn registered at the SIAST The teachers encouraged the students uted to a lack of financial resources and return to school but did enjoy learning campus in Saskatoon. Dustyhorn is to become fully engaged which aided school efficiency. The school presently about psychology and would consider mechanically inclined so he chose to them in achieving better grades. offers programs directed towards student taking more psychology courses in the study to become an automotive techni- “We’re the top of our class, the top recruitment. future. For Bellegarde, graduating means cian. two students,” laughed Dustyhorn. JUNE 2009 Eagle Feather News - Education 19 Modern media used to revive First Nations languages

By Stewart Manhas teach participating language learners. The local language learners then have the oppor- For Eagle Feather News The circle focuses on conversational language tunity to practice daily and at the same time the egina volunteers have banded together in a one- as many of the languages are traditionally taught lessons are available to a worldwide audience. of-a-kind attempt to revive First Nations through conversation and the written forms were “Once it goes on the Internet it’s global after languages. introduced later through colonization. that,” Wheaton said. Using both the traditional face-to-face method and Although the circle is based on traditional First Adam and Wheaton also travel, at their own Rmodern media such as expense, outside the YouTube, co-ordinators city to meet with fluent Cathy Wheaton and Allan speaking Elders on Adam, a professional reserves who otherwise Dene translator, are would be unable to bringing people together come into the circle. to learn the basics of “We can’t expect many First Nations people who are in their languages. 70s or 80s to commute The project started in at their own expense to early April. It followed a Regina,” Wheaton said. mass email discussion Adam and Wheaton that started between work with the elders to Wheaton and several record lessons and others who are concerned bring their voices back about the disappearance to the program. of First Nations The Elders them- languages. selves were more than “What spurred the willing to share their whole discussion was knowledge. people’s concern for “Any way of their language and we getting the language all knew that we were spoken widely was leaving it very quickly,” something they were Wheaton said. very interested in,” Unwilling to let Wheaton said. these languages vanish, They saw this as an Wheaton teamed up opportunity to pass on with Adam, a fluent the gift of speaking Dene speaker, to form their traditional the Regina First languages. Nations Language Doreen Oakes, a Speaking Circle. language giver for the “If we didn’t do Plains Cree language something and be and Cree professor at proactive somehow, we the First Nations were going to step away University of Canada, (from the language) and was approached by one Language givers and learners in session, doing their part to ensure that First Nations languages survive. (Photo by Stewart Manhas) there’d be very little we of the learners and could do about it if we discussed his motiva- waited much longer,” Wheaton said. Nations teaching methods, the group goes beyond tions for learning within the circle. The group consists of about a dozen fluent the circle, in a world-first, and incorporates YouTube He told her that he wanted to learn the language speakers called language givers who donate their as part of the teaching method. so he could better understand the prayers and tradi- time and expertise to teach Dene, Salteaux, Plains Adam and Wheaton record phrases and lessons tional ceremonies he takes part in. and Woods Cree, Dakota, Nakota, and Ojibwe. from the circle, post them to the popular website and “How do they understand the ceremonies when The group meets at the Albert Library weekly then link to the lessons from Adam’s own website they don’t speak the language? There’s more for an hour and a half for free, drop-in sessions to (www.allanadam.com). meaning to it when you understand it,” Oakes said. 20 Eagle Feather News - Education JUNE 2009 JUNE 2009 Eagle Feather News 21 Funding for Métis, First Nations trades training announced

new partnership between the provincial govern- The Government of Saskatchewan is investing $2.3 ment, federal government, First Nations and million in the project over three years, with the federal Métis leadership, Saskatchewan training insti- government contributing nearly $3 million, and an addi- tutions and the residential construction industry will tional $1 million from Aboriginal partner organizations Aresult in training and work experience for under- and the private sector. employed First Nations and Métis people. “First Nations and Métis engagement in our Bridges and Foundations for Aboriginal Develop- province’s growing residential construction sector is an ment, a three-year agreement developed under the imperative recognized by all partners in this project,” Government of Canada’s Aboriginal Skills and Employ- Saskatoon & Region Home Builders’ Association CEO ment Partnership (ASEP), will provide approximately Alan Thomarat said. 400 First Nations and Métis people in Saskatchewan with “Our industry is delighted to see this valuable project training and work experience related to the construction come to fruition, and look forward to tangible results, of affordable housing. sustainable careers, and the construction of quality homes “Bolstering education and employment opportuni- in all communities, further strengthening the strong economy throughout Saskatchewan.” ties for First Nations and Métis people is an important Alan Thomarat of the Home Builders Association and MP “These investments are part of Canada’s Economic priority for our government,” Advanced Education and Kelly Block are pleased with the new partnership. Employment Minister Rob Norris said. Action Plan, the Government’s plan to stimulate the million over three years in ASEP to help Aboriginal people “This project is a major initiative for our province, the economy, protect Canadians during the global recession participate in the workforce and get the training they need home building industry and most especially 400 young and invest in long-term growth,” said MP Kelly Block. to make the most of employment opportunities.” Aboriginal people.” “The Government will invest an additional $100

GETTING HURT STINKS This little shaver from the Sandcastle Daycare gave Stella the Safety Skunk a ‘high-five’. Stella works as a SpokesSkunk for WorkSafe Saskatchewan and was present at Cochrane High School to help kick off Safe Kids Week which ran May 25-31. Stella the Skunk is originally from P.E.I. but moved here to spread the safety word. “I am glad to be here in Saskatchewan,” said Stella. “I want all children to grow up thinking about safety. Getting hurt really does stink!” (Photo by Kathy Ward) 22 Eagle Feather News - Careers JUNE 2009

James Duke, INAC, Minister Rob Norris, Dan Fortin President IBM, Robert Doucette, President Métis Nation-Saskatchewan and FNMR Minister Dan Hutchinson posed for this historic shot after the 100th signing. (Photo supplied by FNMR) Historic signing at conference as AEDP records 100th deal

By John Lagimodiere Saskatchewan's many training and For Eagle Feather News employment opportunities,” Hutchinson ay back on August 21, 1995, said. the Province, the Saskatoon A gala banquet Tuesday evening health district and the Sher- celebrated the signing between IBM and brooke Community Society signed the the Ministry of First Nations and Métis Wfirst ever Aboriginal Employment Devel- Relations. Other signatories include opment Partnerships. President Robert Doucette of the Métis Now, 14 years later and after helping Nation - Saskatchewan, Indian and over 4,000 Aboriginal employees get Northern Affairs Canada, Advanced hired and some 32,000 people receive Education Employment and Labour, and Aboriginal Awareness Training, it is now Enterprise Saskatchewan. official, the Aboriginal Employment This unique partnership agreement Development Partnership has signed its with IBM will open doors to the infor- 100th partnership agreement. mation technology economy for First First Nations and Métis Relations Nations and Métis people in Minister Bill Hutchinson and Advanced Saskatchewan and will create opportu- Education, Employment and Labour nities to increase their participation in Minister Rob Norris recently joined Dan the IT economy through employment, Fortin, President of IBM in signing the education and training, small business historic agreement. assistance and investment. The deal shows a commitment to “This historic agreement is a sign improve levels of employment for that the Métis Nation – Saskatchewan is Aboriginal people within the technolo- picking up steam, and gaining credibili- gy giant. ty and accountability for this great The signing took place at the two- Nation within Saskatchewan and day Workforce: Workplace, Strategies Canada,” commented President Doucette for Success Conference in Saskatoon during his speech prior to the signing. held on June 2 and 3. The conference saw “In a time of economic growth in delegates exploring the latest statistics Saskatchewan, the MN-S remains and best practices to help welcome more committed to the development and First Nations and Métis people into retention of a representative workforce. Saskatchewan’s labour market. The Métis represent the youngest, “This conference gave people a fastest growing population in Canada chance to create a dialogue about and as such, the MN-S will continue its building a common vision for a repre- dedication in the areas of education, sentative workforce and hear how our employment, and economic develop- First Nations and Métis partners and ment, which will ultimately add value to employers are preparing for our great province and this country.” JUNE 2009 Eagle Feather News - Careers 23 Ec. dev. seen seen as solution to unemployment, poverty

By Darla Read For Eagle Feather News chief of a northern band hopes an economic devel- opment forum his reserve held will create networks and opportunities for First Nations people. AChief Roger Bird of the Montreal Lake Cree Nation wanted to take on the expense of holding the Canadian Aboriginal Business & Economic Development Forum because he believes it’s a necessary step in eradicating poverty. “I think to address the high unemployment rate within our community. I don’t know what the statistics are, but like any First Nation, we’re up there in terms of high rate of unemployment and our welfare line, the list is long. It’s huge,” Bird says. The conference featured workshops and keynote addresses by businesspeople from organizations from across North America, such as One Earth Farms, Enter- prise Saskatchewan, Native American Resource Partners, Fort McKay Group of Companies, and the First Nations Bank of Canada. A presentation was also given by the chairman of the Aboriginal Chamber of Commerce in Manitoba, an idea that has been floated in Saskatchewan. Former Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations Vice-Chief and economic development and health special project consultant Guy Lonechild says the idea should at least be looked at in this province, because he says on-reserve First Nations face a lot of difficulties when it comes to new business ventures. “Certainly access to capital and lending, and financial institutions have to take greater risks, spend more money upfront for legal costs to examine some of those legal barriers when it comes to securing and financing larger scale capital projects.” Lonechild says pros and cons need to be looked at, such as would the creation of an Aboriginal chamber of commerce alienate Aboriginal businesspeople from the other chambers that already exist provincially and munic- Montreal Lake Chief Roger Bird ipally. Chief Bird wanted the conference to break down barriers rather than build them up, and thinks that can only mean good things for First Nations people. “I think one of the things I hope to achieve that our people, meaning First Nations people, will network with industry and then we can eliminate the barrier ... the Natives versus non-Natives,” Bird said. “I think the barriers we know exist there but we want to remove those barriers, and I think we need to work together and we need to get along.” 24 Eagle Feather News - Sports JUNE 2009 Bronze medal for Sask girls

t was a tough trip to swallow for the girls from Saskatchewan. At the 2009 National Aboriginal Hockey Championships they would only lose one game. Unfortunately, that one game was to the eventual Ichamps from Manitoba. Needless to say it was a long ride home from Winnipeg. The girls played fantastic all tournament. They had numerous tight games before being humbled 9-2 by the host Manitoba squad in the semi-finals. In the bronze medal game they rallied from a tough loss to win 4-2 over Ontario North. Team Saskatchewan came up just a little short at the 2009 National Aboriginal Hockey Championships but The girls came home with a bronze medal for their efforts. were led by the top line of The Rays started to play well and he was a big part tough Canada West and third overall on her squad. Danny Stone, of it. They would go through two tough playoff series in Huskies Coach Steve Kook says of the Prince Albert Naomi Albert, the first two rounds before sweeping the Cincinnati native, “Danny was a strong candidate for rookie of the and Jessica Cyclones in the Conference Final. year in Canada West and she could end up being one the Gardipy. And in the League Championship they were pushed top forwards in the conference some day.” Team Sask representative Courage Bear said “the to seven games. The series capper was a 4-2 win in Stone was part of Team Sask at the 2009 National girls played hard all tournament and they should not get Anchorage on the Aces’ home ice. Aboriginal Hockey Championships. She was the tour- down, they played great!” In 23 playoff games Campbell would garner 24 nament’s leading scorer and was named to the all-tour- points. It was good for third in the league during the nament team. Campbell leads Rays to title playoffs and tops on his squad! Summer Games reminder

We first mentioned Trent Campbell a few months Stone has solid year for Huskies All you young people make sure to get out to your back and acknowledged his hard work. He would even- respective selection camps for your chance to represent tually be cut loose from the AHL’s Hershey Bears, but it Danny Stone had a tremendous rookie year for the your Tribal Councils at the 2009 First Nations Summer was a move he can’t complain about. Saskatchewan Huskies Women’s Hockey Squad. She Games. This year’s games will be hosted by the Onion After joining the ECHL’s South Carolina Stingrays led all first year players in Canada West with 13 goal Lake First Nation. For more information about the games he quickly began to show the people in Charleston just campaign. With her six assists she finished the season and how to become a part of the experience contact your how valuable he was to the team. with 19 points. Good for fourteenth overall in the very local band administrator in charge of sport or recreation. JUNE 2009 Eagle Feather News - National Aboriginal Day 25 Chief Standingready retains his job at White Bear

By Nathan Devlin back into combating the housing crisis. “Overall, we have to have respect For Eagle Feather News “Personally, I want to see more for the elected people on White Bear no ight competitors failed to unseat economic development on reserve,” says matter who they are, because the people White Bear First Nation Chief Joyea. “We have oil and gas, and White have the last word.” Brian Standingready who will Bear Lake return as Chief for his twelfth term. Resort, and EThe southeast Saskatchewan First forestry, and Nation held its bi-annual election on those are three May 28. The election was a huge under- areas that could taking, with nine people running for definitely use Chief and 54 people running for band some improve- council. ment. I believe Council will be comprised of Robert we do have the Big Eagle, Merlin Joyea, Diette money coming Kinistino, Tanya Littlechief, Annette in to at least put Lonechild, Debbie Maxie, Elaine a dent in the Maxay, Fred Maxie, J. Francis housing crisis.” McArthur, Monica McArthur, Bernard Michael Shepherd, and Seraine Sunkawaste. Lonechild is a Many issues came up in this year’s former councilor election, including housing, the inade- for White Bear quacies of the Indian Act, and unad- who ran for dressed Treaty claims. Of particular Chief in this importance to Chief Standingready is election. Like the issue of seven outstanding land Joyea, claims, and the failure of certain Lonechild has a business interests to comply with their deep concern duty to consult and accommodate as over housing on relating to traditional lands bordering reserve. White Bear. However, Lonechild, like “Going forward with the new Brian Standingready (top right) will be back for a twelfth term as chief of White Bear First Nation. The many who ran council, addressing those issues will be southeast Saskatchewan community has significant potential with assets like the resort and casino for Chief, also our goals,” promised Chief Standin- providing much needed funds. gready. feels strongly The housing crisis on White Bear that White Bear needs to address the First Nation was an issue for all candi- problems with the Indian Act. dates. “The Indian Act was not made for “We have a lot of sewage problems the Indian people,” Lonechild says. and mold problems with housing, and “And it’s not working, and unfortunate- it’s one of our priorities,” Standingready ly, that’s all we have to work with. It’s says. not just my reserve. He says council has a five-year plan “Overall, the system doesn’t seem to build 100 new houses to alleviate the to work for many Indian people. I was crisis, and has applied for financial looking for a way to develop an act for support under the federal government’s our own reserve, where we could define Economic Action Plan. what we want to do.” Inadequate housing is a long- On this issue, Lonechild and Chief standing issue on White Bear. Newly Standingready share common ground, elected Councilor Merlin Joyea grew up as both are looking towards self-govern- on the reserve. He is a residential school ment for White Bear’s future. The survivor, and except for the years he reserve already implements its own spent in residential school and going to property tax system, and is working school in Moose Jaw, Joyea has lived all towards implementing a tax on alcohol his life on White Bear. and tobacco. “There’s always been a shortage of “What we feel is that in order to be housing here,” Joyea says. “There are a First Nation Government we need to cases where you will find 10 to 15 have land, resources, and the ability to people living in one house, and the tax, and we are a government,” Chief houses themselves are not in the best Standingready says. shape. Despite the challenges facing Chief “Some have mold in the basement, and council, White Bear is in an enviable and people are still living there, and position financially, with revenue from there’s potential for that to cause harm, the resort, the casino, and the golf course especially for the young kids living in all contributing to the community of that situation.” over 3,200, approximately 1,200 of Joyea successfully won a seat on whom live on-reserve. council this year after coming up short Councilor Joyea is optimistic for the in his first attempt, and he sees the next future. two years as an opportunity for White “I have faith in the people elected, Bear to capitalize on the economic and nothing but high hopes. I don’t think resources the community has available, our people will be disappointed.” and then putting some of that money Lonechild agrees with Joyea. 26 Eagle Feather News - National Aboriginal Day JUNE 2009 National Aboriginal Day Quiz - It’s time to test your knowledge!

1. How long have First 11. According to the 2001 Nations people inhabited Census, 13.6% of Saskatchewan? Saskatchewan’s population was com- a. 1,000 years prised of Aboriginal b. 2,000 years people. What is the c. 5,000 years percentage projected to d.11,000 years be in 2045?

2. Wanuskewin Heritage a. 15% Park is older than the b. 22% pyramids. Artifacts in- c. 34% cluding tipi rings, a d. 65% medicine wheel and arrow heads have been 12. What percentage of found there. How old is the Aboriginal Wanuskewin and some population is below 20 of the artifacts found years of age in there? Saskatchewan? In Saskatchewan, we’re young and getting younger all the time! a. 150 years a. 10% b. 500 years 7. Buffy Sainte-Marie doesn’t need 9. Who was the President of first b. 23% c. 1,500 years any introduction – she’s darn incarnation of the FSIN (which c. 38% d. 10,000 years famous. Born on Piapot First was first known as the Union of d. 49% Nation, she was adopted at a young Saskatchewan Indians)? 3. What is classified as age. Where did Buffy grow up? 13. How many private Aboriginal- Saskatchewan’s only ‘Naval’ Battle? a. Chief Poundmaker owned businesses are operating in a. Regina b. John Tootoosis Saskatchewan? a. Frog Lake Massacre b. Texas c. Gordon Tootoosis b. Battle of Batoche c. England d. Sitting Bull a. Less than 100 c. Lagimodiere Uprising d. Massachusetts b. About 200 d. Regina Riots 10. Approximately how many people c. Almost 500 8. Here’s an easy one: What song speak fluent Cree (all dialects) in d. Over 1,000 4. 1885 is the year of the Northwest did Buffy win an Academy Award Saskatchewan? Rebellion. Where were the first for in 1982? 14. What year was the Métis Nation shots fired that started it all? a. Soldier Blue a. 200 of Saskatchewan formed? b. Mister Can’t You See b. 1,000 a. Saskatoon c. Up Where We Belong c. 10,000 a. 1925 b. Pile ‘o’ Bones d. Fallen Angels d. 20,000 b. 1947 c. Duck Lake c. 1967 d. Fort Pitt d. 1985

5. Lake Manitou is well 15. How long has known for its healing Eagle Feather News powers. The Plains Indians been the premier brought their sick there in Aboriginal newspaper order to recover from a in Saskatchewan? wide range of ailments. What does ‘Manitou’ a. 3 years mean? b. 5 years c. 7 years

a. Healing Power d. 11 years

b. Good Spirit D 15. C; 14.

c. Medicine Water D; 13. D; 12. C; 11.

d. Swamp D; 10. B; 9. C; 8.

C; 5. B; 6. C; 7. D; 7. C; 6. B; 5. C;

6. Famous Indian wannabe 4. B; 3. D; 2. D; 1.

Archie ‘Grey Owl’ Belaney fun! been

was a well-known it’s know we

conservationist who kept but quiz, this doing

two beavers as pets. been we’ve years

What were their names? howmany member

quiz. We can’t re- can’t We quiz.

a. Beavis and Butthead annual the to swers

b. Jake and Margaret an- the are Here c. Jelly Roll and Rawhide do? you did How d. Johnny and Dee JUNE 2009 Eagle Feather News - National Aboriginal Day 27 Inner city school uses National Aboriginal Day to promote literacy

By Deena Francis For Eagle Feather News ach Tomlin loves to read books. From a seat in the library, books take the 10-year-old to places he’s never been. Z“It takes me to different places and I can read about anything, like dragons,” he said. Tomlin’s love for fiction has made him one of the top readers in Sacred Heart School’s literacy program. On National Aboriginal Day, Tomlin and other children get to meet with Aboriginal role models. Teacher Audrey Rockthunder hopes that this will inspire the children to read more. Nelson Bird, a news reporter from CTV, Leona Cardigan a published author and local firefighters will read to the children at a day-long celebration on June Zach Tomlin, Kitana Perrault and Shayla Williams are chipping in to help their schoolmates read 20,000 books. 15. “Read books about your career to with the connections we already have with “The whole philosophy is to make our Rockthunder loves reading. them . . . speak to the children about your the community . . . stepping up to them kids better readers,” Gerbinski said. “That is one of the reasons I love my career . . . Give them the desire to be first. And going beyond if we have to.” They have an incentive program in work,” she said. where you are. Let them know how to get Those connections to the First which the children who read the most get Sacred Heart School is located in the where you are,” Rockthunder said. Nations community make it better for the prizes. part of the city that is known as the ‘hood. “If you teach children to read, it school, she said. “These are not cheap prizes,” Rock- Formerly the school had gained a opens doors to anything,” Rockthunder Back in the 1980s when Rockthunder thunder said, adding that the children with negative reputation, which they have said. came to the school, many of the children the most points will be going to Dairy Queen. worked to change. This event, which will also feature could not read but now many are avid music and storytelling, is just Rockthun- readers, she said. der’s latest way to bring parents and the Sacred Heart principal, Starla Aboriginal community in general into the Gerbinski, said the National Aboriginal classroom “just to spend some time with Day event will focus on the children’s their kids” and show the parents that the accomplishments as, “exceptional children are learning the Aboriginal ways. readers.” “Our students are humble,” she said. The students read over 20,000 books Rockthunder said she is working, last year, and they are already at 18,152 “from the inside out. (We are) working books read this year, she said. 28 Eagle Feather News - National Aboriginal Day JUNE 2009 Celebrating Christian and First Nations traditions the key to healing

By Diane Adams “We’re a welcoming community,” he survivor and active member of the Little Children,’ and sang it at a prior For Eagle Feather News said. Anglican Church at Gordon First Nation. Jamboree at Fishing Lake. or members of the Anglican The Anglican Church’s healing and Born with a cleft palate, Pratt was “(Residential school) made me wish Church, National Aboriginal Day reconciliation actions stem from their unable to speak as a child. The most I was never born a girl … as I grew older, is a time for reconciliation and involvement in the residential school painful memory of her school experience I hated myself, I hated the Church,” said healing for residential school survivors. system. The Church operated approxi- is words spoke by her abuser. Pratt. FAn Anglican Gospel Jamboree is mately three dozen residential schools in “He said, ‘you poor little dumb girl, But Pratt said that the Anglican happening on Gordon First Nation on Church eventually helped her to deal with June 21. The event will include music, a her experiences. feast, a conventional Eucharistic Anglican “I sat with the minister of the Church Church service, a healing ceremony and and talked to him,” she said. a smudge. She also said the Church is always “Residential school people have not willing to help survivors heal. abandoned the Church,” said Reverend “I think there’s a door wide open. Arthur Anderson of St. Luke’s Church on When someone comes to me, I refer them Gordon First Nation. to our minister.” Anderson is Cree, and he said the Now a grandparent, Pratt stresses Church chose National Aboriginal Day how important it is for all children to feel for the jamboree because it is day set aside safe. When she was in residential school, for all Aboriginal peoples across Canada. her favourite place was the chapel – she Anderson also said National Aborig- would hide there. inal Day has become a day of healing for “My mushum and kohkum’s was Aboriginal peoples. (also) a safe place; that’s the feeling I want “(The jamboree) is a healing cele- to give my own grandchildren, “she bration,” he said. added. He also said that it is nice to know that Pratt also spoke about the importance of both Christian and First Nations tradi- there will be smaller pow-wows, and Patricia Pratt is a residential school survivor and has found help from within the tions for healing. round dances going on all across the Church as she deals with her abuse. country. “I attend regular church but I also “The round dance is a healing dance.” Northern and Western Canada. In 1993, you’ll never be able to tell about it’,” Pratt believe in our traditional ways,” said Pratt. Anderson hopes that the jamboree the Church offered First Nations people a said. She had surgery as a teen and now “If only (other survivors) could find the will also attract non-indigenous people formal apology. she is able to talk about her experiences. same peace I’ve found by talking with my from the nearby communities. Patricia Pratt is a residential school She wrote a song called ‘Beware elders and the ministers.” JUNE 2009 Eagle Feather News - National Aboriginal Day 29 Saskatchewan preparing to celebrate National Aboriginal Day

By Candy Fox ities are organized by the Canadian Métis Heritage Corpo- to $5,000. For Eagle Feather News ration and will include chuckwagon races, grandstand Regina National Aboriginal Day celebrations, which are n June 21, the thirteenth annual National Aborig- performances by hoop-dancer Terrance Littletent, and Métis held at Wascana Park, have grown immensely since 1996, inal Day celebrations kick into full swing across cultural dancers the Asham Stompers. said Orenda Yuzicapi, one of the three directors of the Regina Saskatchewan. Program coordinator, Joanne Yakowec, attributes the National Aboriginal Day Celebrations Inc. National Aboriginal Day celebrations in Prince growth of the event to the increased support from the city of “We average around 8,500 in attendance every year. In OAlbert National Park will include activities and dis- Melfort. She expects to see a lot more people in attendance 2005, our most successful year, we had 12,000 in attendance,” plays from the Pastiwin Cultural and Heritage Site, a this year. said Yuzicapi. new area within the park that promotes First Nations She attributes the popularity to their expansion of activ- and cultural awareness. ities that appeal to a wider audience. Pastiwin will provide opportunities for visitors to tan “Last year, the committee chose to increase our First hides, do beadwork and raise tipis. The new site is still Nation component by having a one-session pow wow. It was being developed and will eventually include trails and a a huge success, as we got rave reviews and hundreds of harbour on Waskesiu Lake. requests to continue it,” said Yuzicapi. Samuel Halkett, heritage presenter for Prince Albert The growth has sparked new interests from organiza- National Park, hopes that by incorporating some of the tions such as the Saskatchewan Science Centre, which will Pastiwin Cultural and Heritage Site activities in this years bring in a Nature Environment show for the children’s stage. National Aboriginal Day, it will build community ties be- Another new venue will be the Elder’s Life Storytelling tween the surrounding First Nations who are also in- Section hosted by Cowessess First Nation Urban Office. volved in the new site’s development and organizational Past National Aboriginal Day festivities, such as the committee. pancake breakfast, trade booths and tipi set-up demonstra- “Pastiwin means survival. It was the name of a place tions, will also be present. There will even be a round dance where the buffalo were herded, but are now free and roaming. and a Native Pro-wrestling show. (The name has meaning) not just for the buffalo, but also for On Friday and Saturday, people can attend the Fiddle- the people,” said Halkett. fest, featuring local school children who have learned to to Attendees can also expect a pow wow. jig and play the fiddle. One of the busiest days for the Duck Lake Interpretive The Regina Métis Council will hold Voyageur Days, which showcases Métis style dancers. Center is National Aboriginal Day. The center offers tradi- Dausin Ellis from the Riel Reelers performing in Yuzicapi, along with her husband Dickie Yuzicapi and tional First Nation and Métis displays such as artwork, Wascana Park. (Photo credit: Orenda Yuzicapi) beadwork, and stone-carvings. Admission is free and they Janice Cottrelle, have been organizing the National Aborig- also provide free traditional snacks like bannock, choke- “It has grown over each year, in the past we would expect inal Day celebrations for the past 12 years. cherry jam, and tea. 200 to 400 usually. This year we are expecting 2,000 per day.” “Our goal is to promote Aboriginal culture and celebrate For the first time ever, the city of Melfort will hold a The chuckwagon races have cash prizes of up to $1,500 it, and with these and other partnerships, I believe that weekend long event for National Aboriginal Day. The festiv- for each category, and the demolition derby has prizes of up we are meeting that goal,” said Yuzicapi. 30 Eagle Feather News - National Aboriginal Day JUNE 2009 CBC to showcase new generation of storytellers

By Bernadette Friedmann-Conrad For Eagle Feather News BC Radio Saskatchewan is excited to showcase a new gener- ation of storytellers. The public broadcaster will air a one- Chour special produced by Indian Commu- nication Arts (INCA) students at the First Nations University of Canada in celebra- tion of this year’s National Aboriginal Day. CBC Radio Saskatchewan Executive Current Affairs Producer Paul Dorn- stauder visited the INCA class and said he decided to air the program, which is part of the INCA curriculum, because he was impressed by the raw talent he saw. “Even though these students don’t have a lot of experience making radio they’re curious, they’re bright, they’re engaged and they have lots of good ideas.” This year’s group of journalism novices is comprised of 18 Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal learners from diverse INCA student Desarae Eashappie works on her lines for the National Aboriginal Day CBC Radio broadcast. personal and educational backgrounds. (Photo by H. Mauricio Carvajal) Jarrett Crowe, a pre-journalism CBC Radio in Saskatchewan stories from student in the INCA certificate program people who, up to this point, we haven’t at First Nations University who was heard from.” raised on the Piapot Reserve is looking Each INCA student will have specific forward to the opportunity. responsibilities in getting the show on air, “It’s a good thing for any aspiring and while this promises to be a challeng- journalist to have their work shown. I’m ing learning experience, it’s also an somewhat nervous about it being aired, excellent opportunity to play a part in but I’m also excited. I think they’ll guide producing an hour-long show that airs us in the right direction,” Crowe said. regionally. As the new reporters develop their Desarae Eashappie, a University of story ideas over the coming weeks, Regina pre-journalism student from they’ll be working under the expert Carry the Kettle First Nation says the guidance of CBC Radio Saskatchewan challenge will be good for the students. Current Affairs producer Merelda Fiddler “For our work to reach that level and other seasoned journalists who know instils a lot of confidence. Knowing that what it takes to put a successful show on it’ll reach such a wide audience gives me the air. a lot of drive to do my best. It sets a higher Fiddler who teaches the radio portion standard.” of the INCA summer institute, says it’s The INCA summer institute is a important to look to the future. seven week intensive training program “What we’re hoping to do with the held in May and June of each year at First show is to look at where everyone thinks Nations University of Canada’s Regina we’re going to be in the future. National campus. Likened to “journalism Aboriginal Day is about people coming bootcamp,” it introduces students to the together, but what is the future of basic principles and journalistic practices National Aboriginal Day? in the print, web, radio and television “We’re hoping to do stories about news environment. where we see ourselves in 20 years from The relationship between INCA and now, and how we are all going to be CBC goes back years, said Dornstauder. better.” “We’ve been able to bring some of This theme could take the radio show our own professional experience to the in a number of directions, and that’s class, and hopefully we will establish exciting to Dornstauder. connections with these folks who will be “Other than being fairly certain that the next generation of storytellers in the we’re going to get a program that’s really province.” reflective of Saskatchewan, I’m not sure The INCA National Aboriginal Day what we’re going to get. special will air on CBC Saskatchewan’s “It’ll be a surprise. We’re looking regional afternoon show from 5 to 6 p.m., forward to bringing to the listeners of Friday June 19. JUNE 2009 Eagle Feather News 31 ABORIGINAL YOUTH AWARDS Receiving the award for Outstanding Achievement from MLA Ken Cheveldayoff, the Minister Responsible for Crown Corporations, is Dane Sanderson (bottom photo). Dane is a member of James Smith First Nation and attends St. Mary’s High School in Prince Albert. Dane maintains a 94% average in school and is also heavily involved in sports and community events. Jordyn Burnouf, from Ille a la Crosse, is making her second appearance in Eagle Feather News. Just last month Jordyn and her teammates won the National Aboriginal Curling Champi- onships in Saskatoon. Here she is receiving an award from SIGA VP Bonnie Missens for Education. Jordyn has received a few scholarships already to help pay for her first year at the University of Saskatchewan. Jordyn ultimately wants to become a doctor so she can go back to her communtiy and help out. 32 Eagle Feather News JUNE 2009 Team Sask repeats at National Aboriginal Hockey Championships

By Blue Pelletier players like David Greyeyes who was For Eagle Feather News named top defenseman in the eam Sask put together a near Saskatchewan Midget AAA League. perfect game in the final of the Jordan Iron was the team’s leading scorer National Aboriginal Midget during the tourney and was named a Hockey Championships held in second team all-star. TWinnipeg. Eastern Door played well, but No star shined brighter than Team the boys from the prairies were dominant Sask goalie Thomas Pratt who was and cruised to an easy 8-0 victory. named tournament MVP. It was his The win gave Team Sask their stellar play between the pipes and timely second consecutive gold medal at this saves that led the way for the team to prestigious event. Last year they beat the capture gold. same Eastern Door squad by one goal. In the final he recorded the shutout. The boys played well throughout the He was tested early and made some early tournament, but their ultimate goal was big saves that really helped give the to peak and play at their best come squad the momentum needed to win the playoffs. There were some close games game. in the round robin especially against the Pratt says the best part was “playing host team from Manitoba and the team with all his friends and being on televi- from Nunavut. sion.” Players came from all across the After the game Pratt was given province. Many have played in the another honor. Hockey Canada officials Midget AAA leagues or competitive For the second consecutive year Team Sask has won the National Aboriginal took his game jersey. The jersey will now leagues around Saskatchewan. Midget Hockey Championships. They won the final game 8-0 to take the title. be on display at the Hockey Hall of Fame Team manager Courage Bear says it in Toronto. men, based on their behavior at social Bear was approached by the coaches was a skilled squad that won the tourney. “It’s the pride that comes from functions and other events during the from the Newfoundland and Nunavut. “The team was deep and real wanting to be part of Team Sask and week. “Teams complimented the players talented,” Bear said. representing this province that drives On the ice the team played with heart and the team for not kicking them when But it was also the way the team these kids,” Bear says. and grit. However they never tried to they were down and always being great conducted themselves off the ice that was “With all the support they get from embarrass their opponents despite being sports who never tried to run up the impressive. Coaches and parents from their communities and from corporate much better than a lot of teams they score,” Bear says. other teams told Team Sask officials how sponsors athletes here are put in a played against. The team was loaded with talented proud they should be of these young situation to succeed.”