October 2010

REMEMBERING MANAGING TO PASS ATHLII GWAII OUR OWN ON EVERY- page 6 AFFAIRS THING page 10 page 13

HAIDAHAIDANews of the Haida Nation LAASLAASOCTOBER 2010 Justine Parnell

1 Haida Laas - News of the Haida Nation October 2010

CHN Taan Forest Energy NEW HIRES At work In the OFF THE GRID In Remembrance Amanda Reid-Stevens has taken on WOODS The National Research Council of Taan Forest is actively completing These are people from the Haida community who passed away the position of Business Manager & Canada is starting work with the since October, 2009: Special Projects Coordinator at cutblock layout and design on Haida CHN to research energy technolo- Haida Laas. Gwaii that is consistent with the in- gies, proven and emerging, with the Old Massett Skidegate tent of the draft Land Use Order. intent to provide a reliable power Viola (Edwards) Atkins David Charles Wesley Teresa Adams has been hired as supply and reduce greenhouse gas Priscilla Marks Ronald (Beans) Collinson Policy Analyst and will be working to Taan Forest tendered opportunities emissions for the Islands. This project Emily Goertzen Douglas (Dougie) Royal Crosby support the CHN policy committee. for contract bids through its web site is called the Clean Technology Proj- Larry Davis Willis Royal Crosby < taanforest.com > and has recently ect and will turn Haida Gwaii into a Willy Russ Nellie Cross Deena Manitobenis has taken over retained three engineering consult- Clean Technology Research site. James Edwards Eleanor Russ front-line/front-desk responsibilities ing firms to manage cutblock layout Sam Davis Sr. Wayne Young HAIDA LAAS at CHN Old Massett; Marvin Col- within Taan’s forest operating area. The vision is to have Haida Gwaii Sophie Russ Donnie Moody NEWS of the HAIDA NATION lison has moved to the position of The layout activities are employing become the first “off the grid” com- Gail Gagnon Marilyn Hogben archivist. nine ndividuals, five of which are munity completely supported by published by the James (Jimmy) Amos members of the Haida Nation. It is Council of the Haida Nation Ryan Abrahams renewable energy and eventually anticipated that at least one crew Roberta Parnell In Skidegate, Kimberly Robinson is become a community that is carbon Managing Editor member from each consulting firm Monte Stewart–Burton on the front desk and Leticia Hill neutral. Simon Davies will become certified as a Haida Land Rose Brown has taken on the duties of the CHN Value Assessor. Taan Forest has also Writers Gloria Brown Secretary. “With the NRC we are going to de- Florence Lockyer - Old Massett initiated a forest products salvage John Davis sign an energy plan and choose the Kwiaahwah Jones - Skidegate opportunity program and several lo- Nora Gates (nee Marks) Mark Spoljaric is the new biolo- best companies and best ways to ful- cal salvage operators have expressed [email protected] gist working at the Haida Fisheries fill the plan. This approach will meet p.250.559.8755 If we have missed a name or if you would like to have a family member’s Proogram. interest. Two advertisements were is- our needs better than companies name recorded in the In Remembrance section of Haida Laas, sued for interested parties to provide coming forward with their ideas,” please phone our office at 250-559-8755 or email < [email protected] >. Elizabeth Bulbrook is coordinating proposals for creating local oppor- said Guujaaw. “NRC is also working Council of the Haida Nation the Kunst’aa – Kunst’aayah reconcili- tunity within Taan Forest’s operating with us to find resources to fund this Administrator Box 589, Old Massett ation process for the CHN. • area. • project.” Haida Gwaii V0T 1M0 The project will look at electricity, en- p.250.626.5252 ergy storage technologies, heating, f.250.626.3403 Speak Up! waste mangement and clean trans- 1.888.638.7778 Three language groups have come together for a new feature ATHLII GWAII [email protected] portation. As part of the plan the at Haida Laas. HlGaagilda Xaayda Kil Naay (SHIP), Xaad Kihlgaa project will also look at jobs, the skills Guusuu.u Society in Old Massett and the Language Department at and knowledge needed to work in Council of the Haida Nation the Ketchikan Indian Community in Alaska will be providing Haida President this field and identify an education/ spelling for easy-to-learn every day phrases. This first set of phrases Box 98, Queen Charlotte training plan. Haida Gwaii is about food – how handy is that? In following issues we will carry V0T 1S0 common greetings, weather, comings and goings, fishing and more. The National Research Council is the p.250.559.4468 Hope you enjoy the feature – if you require help with pronunciation f.250.559.8951 government of Canada’s top organi- or want to further your knowledge contact the language group in 1.877.559.4468 zation for research and development [email protected] your village. and has been active since 1916. The council is made up of about 20 insti- Are you hungry? Come and eat. www.haidanation.ca tutes and programs. • AK: Dáng gw k’ud? AK: Hal gatáa! SKG: Dang gwa k'ud? SKG: Haala ga taa. OCTOBER 2010 OM: Dang gu k'ud? OM: Haala ga ta. DID YOU KNOW? I am hungry. Are you full and round?^ Did you know that the Commit- COVER: Bear mother with cubs, carved by AK: Díi k’wíidang. AK: Dáng gw sk’isdlä gámjuu? 25th Anniversary Celebration tee on the Status of Endan- Benhaidanation.ca Davaidson. SKG: Dii k'wiida. SKG: Dang gwa sk’isdll damsdll? gered Wildlife in Canada has November 13 • 1:00 pm • Doors open at 11:30 am program reports : haida laas OM: Dii k'wiida listed the Northern abalone as links : diplomacy : agreements George Brown Recreation Hall, Skidegate endangered? government : working groups Please bring dishes and cutlery for you and your family. - it’s all good - 2 3 Haida Laas - News of the Haida Nation October 2010

Gwaii Haanas: LEARNING & contributing GIDALANG KUYAAS “PRECIOUS CHILDREN” FORUM by Camille Collinson for the Haida Child & Family Services Society My name is Tauren Collinson. I was hired as a Patrol Officer for Gwaii At Haida Child and Family Services So- forum was well attended with over 153 registered youth, Haanas in May, 2010 following my ciety our duty is to create healthy, safe and this did not include parents, grandparents, aunties second year of school at Vancouver environments for our children and fami- and uncles who came along, or the youth who weren’t Island University. lies by developing and delivering holis- registered. tic programs and services that model My first week on the job was spent our traditional Haida way of life. Many prizes were drawn for participants, including bikes, obtaining certification for Safe Ves- and two round-trip tickets to Vancouver to attend the sel Operating Procedure (SVOP) and Currently we are embarking on a journey that will lead us PNE along with $600 spending money and accommo- my Marine Emergency Duties, A3 to self-govern our own Child Welfare system. We are call- dation. The lucky winners of the trips were Devan Boyko (MEDA3). Both certifications are a ing this journey, K’yuu Gawtlaas — A New Direction. and Franklin Edgars. requirement for the position. In our offices we have given the “new direction” a nick- Our agenda was to formulate a Haida Nation Children Fresh out of training, I was sent name. We have coined it the “new old direction” be- & Youth Declaration of Rights. Over the two days we straight into Gwaii Haanas on my cause we are instilling Haida values into our current held workshops with the children to gather information first patrol. My summer was spent practice. Haida values and cultural appropriateness is in order to create this document. We asked the chil- on various boat patrols sharing my something that lacked in the past. K’yuu Gawtlaas will dren and youth questions like: What makes you proud knowledge of the Gwaii Haanas area be building a new model of child welfare that exem- to be Haida? and What sorts of things can you do to with various researchers. Some of plifies the traditional Haida way of life. This new direc- build a strong nation? The feedback we received was their projects included finding prime tion will enrich the lives of children and families in our exceptional! locations to set sea bird listening de- communities. vices, studying algae in the intertidal From the children and youths answers, with the help of area, and trapping raccoons and On August 18th and 19th Haida Child and Family Ser- Dan George, President of Four Directions Management other small mammals. I also lent a vices held a Gidalang Kuyaas “Precious Children” Forum Services Ltd. and our charismatic facilitator, the children for the children of Haida Gwaii. The forum was held over of the Haida Nation formulated the Haida Nation Chil- hand to experts in different fields of Tauren Collinson at SGang Gwaay, Gwaii Haanas. biology – of which I am very inter- two days, one in Skidegate and one in Old Massett. The dren & Youth Declaration. • ested. I participated in an interesting (The full declaration is printed on the back cover.) patrol which was for a film shoot on I have enjoyed all the opportunities nity to have a hand in protecting it Mt. Yatza with Joe Crawford (Cana- provided to me through this sum- – for your kids and mine (one day!). da’s Best Summer Job). This turned mer job. I truly feel at home in Gwaii I would like to thank Gwaii Haanas Council of the Haida Nation’s into quite the adventure and I am Haanas as I spent my pre-teen years for hiring me and hopefully I will be Cultural Feature Identification training workshops proud to say I’ve starred in my first attending the Swan Bay Rediscovery back next year! • short film – watch for it at a theatre Program, eventually becoming the and certification exams near you! boat operator for the program. The Council of the Haida Nation (CHN), in partnership with the Northwest Community College, is hosting a cultural feature identification training program November 1st to 24th between Masset and Queen Charlotte. I have also met many very interest- I have always found time spent in The training and subsequent examinations lead to certification by the CHN for cultural feature surveys that ing people, from all walks of life, Gwaii Haanas to be a humbling ex- will be required to be conducted in all planned forestry cutblocks on Haida Gwaii under the new Land Use who had come to Gwaii Haanas to perience as the presence of our cul- Objectives order (LUOO), coming into effect this winter/spring. The course focuses only on the identification experience the rainforests, our cul- ture is strong – I believe this is what of cultural features as they relate to the LUOO. The course will include: ture and to hear for themselves, the makes it so special and I am proud taanforest.com • Traditional Forest Feature identification (cultural plants)- QCC campus Nov 1,2,3 roar of the mighty Pacific Ocean. to have been given the opportu- • Ecosystem identification- QCC campus Nov 4, 5 • Monumental Tree identification- QCC campus Nov 8, 9, 10 • Culturally Modified Tree and Archaeological feature identification- Masset campus Nov 15 to 20 • Survey methodology and data collection- Masset campus Nov 22, 23, 24 NEW WEB SITE• Written and practical examinations- Locations TBA, Nov 25, 26 Participants are encouraged to have practical experience in forestry within the last 5 years, and/or equivalent post-secondary experience in forestry or natural resource management. Course fees and costs for examinations are $1,500.00 per student. Registration deadline is noon on October 29th, 2010. Contact Nick Reynolds, 250-626-5252 at the Council of the Haida Nation for registration and questions or go to http://www.haidanation.ca/Pages/Programs/Land_Use_Planning/Land_Use_Plan.html

4 5 Haida Laas - News of the Haida Nation October 2010

Brad Collinson (centre) and Lawrence Jones (right) speaking with the RCMP.

Remembering Athlii Gwaii: Lawrence Jones speaking Both photos courtesy of Jenny Cross.

It was October 28,1985 let them stand up first but that is what they wanted. when John Yeltatzie came to

Haida Laas the house and said that the That first day, November 16th, it was nice for a while but Haida were going to have a then started to rain and the elders were sitting in mid- protest to stop the logging at dle of the road. Some of the guys built a lean-to so they Lyell Island and they needed would stay dry. When the loggers came they saw the a cook. When he came to the elders blockading the road and they asked them to step house there just my mother aside; they said they were breaking the law, “We want to and myself at home. I really go to work,” they said. The elders did not move so the didn’t want to go, but my RCMP came forward and asked them to step aside – the mother told me I had to — RCMP also said that they were breaking the law and if that was where it all they didn’t move they would be arrested. started for me. There were only six RCMP officers but they were ready to The Old Massett Haida went up to Skidegate to get pre- arrest the elders. Two of the RCMP officers were Haida. pared. At Skidegate there were three seine boats ready They were Sgaann 7iw7waans, Allen Wilson, from Old to take all of us down to Lyell. We got to the island at Massett and Robert Mills from Skidegate. While the elders midnight and in the morning we went up to the road to were sitting the rest of us were standing behind them Lawrence Jones (left) speaking with figure out how we were going to do the protest. Then and at the side of the road and as the elders were arrest- the RCMP and Brad Collinson (centre) we looked for a place to get the camp set up. We found ed they were escorted to an RCMP vehicle. The officer on the road at Athlii Gwaii. a good spot close to the road and we built three cabins who was escorting my mother was Sgaann 7iw7waans, in a week. It was really good to see everyone work Allan Wilson. As they were walking away someone from hard getting the cabins ready for the others that were the side of the road told me to go with my mother. So I coming out. did. We got to the vehicle and started to leave and about a quarter of a mile from where we started, and around a As we waited for the others we did some walking around. corner, we came across five more RCMP vehicles and ten I remember one day we were walking on the beach and more RCMP officers. My mother told the officer who was we came to a creek. There were dead fish by the creek, driving the vehicle, “We are not criminals, why do you right by the mouth of the creek, and we wanted to get have so many officers here?” We were driven to a landing the media down there to show them that the logging where a helicopter was waiting and they flew us to Sand- was killing fish. BCTV and CBC news had people on Lyell spit where the elders went in front of the justice of the and I can’t remember who it was, but someone said “no” peace. After that Ada Yovanovich, my mother Ethel Jones to that idea. and Gaahlaay were fingerprinted but as this was happen- ing there was a phone call to stop the process. Because The loggers knew we were there to stop them from log- of that phone ging so Western Forest Products (Frank Beban) went to call I believe Adolphus Marks was not fingerprinted. the BC court to get an injunction to prevent us from interfering. They said if we did interfere we would be That night I was on my way back to Lyell Island. We were arrested. going by boat again. My mother, Ethel Jones, was ar- got there they were taking our pictures and fingerprints – That night there was a dinner and dance at the Indian rested on November 16th and the next blockade was when it was my turn the RCMP officer started by calling Center on East Hastings Street put on by the urban Hai- We were getting ready to blockade the road and we going to be on the 18th. This time there were going to me John Yeltatzie! das living in Vancouver. The event was for the twelve of wanted to be the first group to stand up there to stop be ten of us on the road. Before we went up to the road us that went to court. At the dinner we had to get up the loggers from going to work. But we got word that we decided this time to have two people stand side-by- All together there were seventy-two Haidas arrested and dance. We did the chief’s dance and there were do- the elders wanted to be the first, and later that day the side, one couple in front of the other down the road, in- for blocking the road. Out of those arrested there were nations made at the dinner too. elders arrived by helicopter. The helicopter landed on the stead of us lining up across the road. We were about 100 twelve of us were charged and convicted of criminal road and we went up to meet them. Ethel Jones; Ada Yo- yards apart and I was with Bradford Collinson. When the contempt. I don’t remember which day we travelled to There were two bands playing at the dance; the Pow- vanovich; Gaahlaay, Watson Pryce, and Adolphus (Fussy) RCMP officer was getting close to us Bradford said, “We’ll Prince Rupert to appear in court but in Rupert they told der Blues Band and a heavy metal band. No one liked Marks got off the helicopter. It was early evening and turn around so they’ll be looking at our backs.” They had us when we had to go to the Supreme Court of BC in the heavy metal band and everyone wanted them off that night we all met to talk about the blockade. We tried to walk around us to charge Brad and myself. All of us Vancouver. In Vancouver there was a lot of support out- the stage but they wouldn’t go, so Arnie Bellis and Colin to tell the elders that we wanted to be the first to stand who were arrested that day were flown by helicopter to side the courthouse and a lot of people inside and at the Richardson went up and kicked them off! • on the road but they said, no, they were going to be the Skidegate Landing and then to the RCMP detachment in end of the day the judge gave us all suspended sentenc- first ones to blockade. It was not an easy thing to do, to Queen Charlotte City where they booked us. When we es, which meant we didn’t have to serve any time in jail.

6 7 Haida Laas - News of the Haida Nation October 2010

OKAY! – DID YOU KNOW THAT YOUTH TAKING CARE OF OURSELVES HAVE OPINIONS! by Florence Lockyer by Justine Parnell The health of First Nations’ people is tal health, communicable disease pertaining to residents in Allaha- a responsibility of the federal gov- control on-Reserve, alcohol and bad, Tamilnadu, India, and places The Kay Llnagaay Heritage Centre Justine Parnell ernment of Canada. The registered drug abuse, and non-insured health like that? So, you need to be more means a lot to the people of Haida status population of the Haida nation benefits. specific and Google < status Indian, Gwaii, because it represents much have their medical/health care cov- medical care in BC > to get results more than just history. For many erage provided automatically, upon More than 50 First Nations in BC are pertaining to aboriginal health care people Kay represents the pride we registration. managing their own health services. in BC. One report called, Analysis have in who we are and the build- Old Massett and Skidegate health of Health Statistics for Status Indians ing complex helps to keep our cul- The Indian Medical Branch of BC services are provided collaboratively in BC 1991-1998 which is posted ture alive by hosting events. For this Health Care is in charge of the fi- with the provincial, federal, and lo- on the internet says that the status article, I wanted to focus specifically nances for the care we receive. They cal Band governments. Our Health population in BC is not quite 3.5% on the perspective of the youth and receive a block transfer payment to Transfer Payments for Old Massett (132,081), and that less than 5% of to get their opinion on what the Kay cover our health expenses from the are managed at the Haida Health that population (17,993) reside in Centre means to them. I interviewed Federal Government/Health Canada, Centre. This process of managing the Northwest. a few Haida youth, and one youth which pays for our Medical Services our own health transfer payments who was not raised on Haida Gwaii, Plan premiums that cover our medi- requires following guidelines and But, did you know that almost one- to compare their points of view. They cal expenses, within certain limits adhering to strict reporting require- quarter (25%) of our population is had some very interesting perspec- and guidelines. They receive the bills ments. Michelle Brown is our Health under the age of 20? So increasing tives on coming together, education, from our visits to the doctor, our Administrator. health and wellness opportunities for and preservation. hospital stays, our prescriptions (to youth is important in order to build a certain extent and with generic Some of the information for this ar- and maintain strong health within A young employee at Kay, Tyrone brands). They also issue our Medi- ticle was inspired by research on the our nation. If you are over 60 years Young said that working at Kay he cal Care Cards and provide programs internet. Did you know that if you of age then you are one of 6% of had, “Good people to work with, it’s like nursing care, nutrition, dental take the time to Google < Indian the First Nations’ population in the a beautiful and fun place to work.” health, mental health, environmen- medical branch > you will get results Northwest. Our elders hold the key Alix Goetzinger revealed that, “It is to a part of us that shapes who we the best place to come and learn are – our history. about Haida culture, it’s interactive, The Biggest Loser: Old Massett-style fun, and reflects our culture really What can you do to improve our na- By Florence Lockyer tion’s health care? It’s easy, talk about well.” Meaghan Wilson said, “The Jeffery Williams demonstrates the man’s dance to visitors at the Kay Llnagaay anniver- Kay Centre to me, represents pres- sary celebration this past summer. your concerns with the appropriate ervation of our culture.” And Mikey Most of us have seen or heard about Wednesday Walk that circles Old people – the hospital site administra- Massett along Eagle and Raven Moody exclaimed, “It’s a large social to actually meet some Haida people is a very important part of the Village the Biggest Loser TV show ... well, tor, our local health centre admin- area where people from everywhere and not just see pictures and arti- of Skidegate and I’m not sure where Old Massett is now into its 4th Avenues. istrator and complete the Northern can correspond!” That’s what the facts in the museum.” In compari- the preservation of our culture would round of a program that is having Health Authority’s survey. As well, youth had to say about what the Kay son, Stephanie Fung, implied that stand without it. big results. The local program was On Saturday afternoons co-ordina- become more knowledgeable about Centre represents in their minds. meeting actual Haida people may designed to help community mem- tor Myrna Bell-Wilson and Shauna health related issues like diabetes, be more powerful and enlightening The Kay Centre is a place where peo- bers become aware of healthy life Smith demonstrate different recipes heart disease, HIV/AIDS, Fetal Alcohol The Kay Centre may have different than visiting a museum. From this ple from all over the world can come styles and focuses on physical activ- for healthy cooking and, of course, Spectrum Disorder (FASD is a 100% meaning to a youth not of First Na- we can glean that whatever age we and learn about Haida people and ity and good eating habits. A group eating. preventable health problem) and tions’ ancestry or not raised on Haida are we have valuable knowledge we their ways of life. But the Centre also of 80 people signed up early in Sep- mental and physical heath. Gwaii . Therefore, I interviewed can share with others. Sometimes we serves the very important role of pre- tember for the 12-week program – There are the residual affects of the Stephanie Fung. Ms Fung declared take our knowledge for granted. For serving our culture and showing our yes you read it right, that’s 80! group, too, because when one mem- Resources available: First Nations that, “The Kay Centre is about com- example, our Naanang and Chiinang Haida pride and strength. • ber of the family starts eating well Health Handbook has been mailed out, but is also available on line at < ing together to learn about Haida may have told us something about The benefits of the program are a and exercising, others soon follow www.healthlinkbc.ca > It’s 80 pages culture and people.” She went on our culture we thought every Haida twice weekly exercise circuit to help suit. Myrna Bell-Wilson co-ordi- to say, “It’s great at events like the of helpful information. knew, but they don’t. The Kay Centre build cardio and physical strength, nates the sessions out of the Haida Kay Anniversary, [held this past sum- Northern Health Authority website is is the perfect place to share our sto- a delicious salad bar lunch and the Health Centre. • mer], when locals and visitors can ries and knowledge and is a place to at < www.northernhealth.ca >. • opportunity to participate in the get together so tourists get a chance that helps keep our culture strong. It

8 9 Haida Laas - News of the Haida Nation October 2010

REPORT FROM THE 2010 HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY REPORT FROM THE 2010 HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY GETTING THE HOUSE IN ORDER – Nation to set up the Haida Gwaii had been deprived of the riches of ENERGY BEGINNING TO MANAGE OUR AFFAIRS Management Council and a Solu- the natural resources of Haida Gwaii, For over ten years, BC Hydro has tions Table. we know that there remains plenty been attempting to replace the die- of wealth and opportunity. None of sel power on-Island. After all Islands’ these initiatives need to wait for a residents bills are paid, BC Hydro The 2010 House of Assembly ran for four days, this year, with The Management Council will have Satsan referred several times to the a mandate which will cover, among court decision or settlement – but we provides a subsidy about $8-million the final day falling on a Saturday. Two special presentations Harvard Project and said the study other things, the implementation of can begin now,” said Guujaaw to provide power to Haida Gwaii at the same rates as mainland custom- brought useful insight to the Assembly proceedings: Day showed nations that governed them- the Strategic Land Use Agreement, selves according to their own policies determine the Allowable Annual The first step has been in setting up ers. Over the past couple of years, one included Haida legal-team lawyer, Louise Mandell, who and laws were more successful than Cut on Haida Gwaii, the approval of Haico. Haico will function in a way there has been a parade of busi- similar to a crown corporation, ex- ness interests hoping to cash in on presented an energetic overview of the Haida title case, and nations working under a Department management plans and oversee the of Northern and Indian Affairs (DIA) Solutions Table. cept it will be a jihlk’ll – a headdress. the opportunity through partner- day two saw Satsan, Herb George illuminate the subjects of model. He said good government is Any businesses such as Taan Forest ships. No doubt there are some good and Taan Wood, will operate under plans. However, by going through economics and governance. based on a strategic vision driven by The Solutions Table will be made the people, good planning, participa- up of equal numbers of Haida and Haico and function at arms’ length the bidding process, we may get the cheapest, but not necessarily the to provincial and federal law. She tion in decision-making and leader- provincial reps to function at the from Haida Nation political bodies. Louise has been involved in aborigi- best solution to the Islands long-term nal law since the 1980s. At the as- said that the two-pronged approach ship. The Harvard Project presented operational level: on the ground, The economies on Haida Gwaii have electrical needs. sembly she presented the Haida – using legal challenges and direct the case for separating politics from so to speak, reviewing applications, government-to-government negotia- business. collecting and analyzing data, and always been based on its resources. Title Case in the context of BC and The CHN’s approach is to work di- tion – has produced results that have providing technical support to the The difference between then and Canadian law. She also spoke to the rectly with the National Research gone further in regaining control of Seven generations of First Nations Management Council. The Solutions now will be in the way we do it. This reconciliation process that the Haida Council and possibly some univer- land and waters than the approaches people have lived under the Indian Table will provide the best informa- means rethinking the way things Nation is working on with the prov- sities to look for the best solution of many other First Nations. She said Act. Those government policies have tion to Haida and provincial decision have been done. While sawmilling ince of BC. to the Islands’ long-term electricity there is no nation she knows of that driven many First Nations and Band makers. and secondary manufacturing have their challenges, such as lack of elec- needs. Once the NRC plan is com- Louise said the reason the Haida Na- has made gains this great. Council agendas and their direction. tricity and high shipping costs, with pleted then the BC Hydro call-out tion is in court having to prove title Given that dubious legacy, Satsan By this spring, the old ways of log- good planning and management this for proposals can be specific to the to Haida Gwaii is based on over 100 On day two, Satsan, Herb George, said, “We have to commit to recon- ging will be replaced by regula- sector will become a greater part of NRC plan. “While we are fighting to years of a “policy of denial.” The spoke about governance and econ- ciliation among our own people,” tions that give more consideration the new economy and the benefits have tanker-free waters, the tankers Crown defends this “policy” by ig- omy. Satsan is married to Lyndale and, “we have to put ourselves in to cultural values, which includes will stay on-Island. that bring us oil and gas also pose noring rights and title and through (Hutchingson) George and has two problem-solving mode rather than more care and protection for salm- an immediate danger to the waters,” a series of arguments that they have Haida children. He worked with his sitting and complaining.” on streams and wildlife habitat. The We currently have management con- Guujaaw said. put before the courts over 100 years. people, the Wet’suwet’en, in putting rules also recognize the importance together the Delgamuukw case, has Satsan commended the Haida Nation of cedar, yew, bears, fish and birds, trol of the old MacMillan Bloedel tree She said the arguments change to fit The Naikun Wind Energy proposal served on the BC Summit and has for their leadership in First Nations’ among others, which have not been farm license and the areas east of the politics of the federal and pro- generated a lot of hopes and fears, been the BC Vice-chief of the Assem- politics and cited the Haida win at considered in the past. the Yakoun River, from Juskatla Road vincial government and they are which have been very divisive in the bly of First Nations. He now heads up the Supreme Court and its contribu- to Lawn Hill, and Skidegate Lake to specific to combating the assertion Nation. CHN has requested that Si- the National Centre for First Nations tion to aboriginal law. He particularly All of these land-use planning initia- Cumshewa Inlet. of First Nations’ rights, and defend- mon Fraser University examine the ing the government’s position. This Governance. commended the Haida people for all tives are working towards setting Doing things in a new way will mean project and provide our people with long-standing “denial policy” is hard the lands that have been protected. up joint management of the forests logging considerably less than in the an impartial and objective analysis of at work today. The provincial govern- He said with the rise of First Nations’ on the Islands, with the provincial past and using what is cut more ef- the proposal. ment’s filing in response to the Haida governance and self-determination THE NATIONS BUSINESS government. we have created a “really good prob- The stewardship law called Kaay Guu ficiently. In the past, the province’s title case still asserts ownership over ENBRIDGE lem for ourselves.” He was refer- Ga ga Kyah ts’as – Gin ‘inaas ‘laas THE INDEPENDENCE PROJECT Chief Forester decided how much all of Haida Gwaii and still deny First Enbridge is proposing to build a ring to the need for First Nations to ‘waddluwaan gud tl’a gud giidaa de- The Independence Project is about wood would be cut each year but Nations’ rights even in the face of pipeline from the tar sands in Alberta develop and put in place institutions scribes the way the province of BC building the economic and govern- that decision is now in the hands of positive court decisions reaching as to Kitimaat. Over the past few years, and laws designed to meet the re- and the Haida Nation will operate in mental structures necessary for build- the Haida Gwaii Management Coun- far back as 1888, which acknowledge the Haida Nation has worked with quirements of their Nations and the a joint management of the lands and ing a self-sufficient Haida Nation. cil. The amount to be cut is unlikely aboriginal rights and title. all of the Coastal First Nations as well building of local economies. Part of management of resources. Through the Independence Project to exceed 800,000 cubic metres a year. This is about a third of what as many, but not all, en route from Louise applauded the foresight and the equation of good government is the Nation will explore concepts, The law, passed at the House of As- develop strategies and design an was logged ten years ago. strategic direction the Haida Na- institutions having a good cultural fit REPORT – cont’d next page tion is taking and acknowledged the and governmental structures being sembly, confirms the ground rules economy that will gives the ability gains made through its challenges stable, fair and effective. for the province of BC and the Haida to look after ourselves. “While we

10 11 Haida Laas - News of the Haida Nation October 2010

REPORT FROM THE 2010 HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY REPORT FROM THE 2010 HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY

REPORT – FROM PAGE 11 Resolutions ADOPTED AT THE 2010 HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY the tar sands to Kitimaat. Enbridge 5th. Unfortunately local canneries are and a final plan is expected in March Kaay Guu Ga ga Kyah ts’as – Gin ‘inaas ‘laas ‘waddlu- idaa (Stewardship Law), and which Stewardship Law has has been passing out money in their not buying at the moment, as the 2011. waan gud tl’a gud giidaa – STEWARDSHIP LAW been adopted in principle by the Council of the Haida “engagement” strategy. Last year, market is soft. There are 232 licensed Nation for presentation to the 2010 House of Assembly; the president of Enbridge came to Haida diggers. PACIFIC INTEGRATED COMMER- (Kaay Guu Ga ga Kyah ts’as – take care of nature; Gin Haida Gwaii, where people from all CIAL FISHERIES INITIATIVE (PICFI) ‘inaas ‘laas ‘waddluwaan gud tl’a gud giidaa – to have THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the 2010 House of As- communities spoke against the idea, Over the years, there has been ever– The PICFI process is basically a fed- love and respect for all living things. sembly adopt the Kaay Guu Ga ga Kyah ts’as – Gin ‘inaas and recently, all of the Islands’ com- increasing “recreational” crabbing eral government program that will ‘laas ‘wadddluwaan gud tl’a gud giidaa (Stewardship munities were able to speak with one and clam digging. Some of these op- return fish quota and licenses to First WHEREAS the Haida Nation has entered into the Law). voice when Port Clements’ village erations are starting to resemble little Nations and develop capacity in the Kunst’aa Guu – Kunst’aayah Reconciliation Protocol (the council finally took a position against canneries. Management of the beach business side of the industry. In No- “Protocol”) on December 11, 2009; and National Anthem the project. At the annual Union of is important to ensure a sustainable vember 2008, The Fisheries Com- WHEREAS the “Coming Into the House Paddle Song” has BC Municipalities Convention, held industry and this year Haida Fisher- mittee submitted a business plan to WHEREAS the Protocol includes, “6.5 The Haida Nation become known as “The Lyell Island Song” and is used as this year in Whistler, two resolutions ies signed a Monitoring Enforcement PICFI, which was accepted by DFO in will recommend to the House of Assembly legislation to The Haida National Anthem; were passed, one against oil tanker Protocol with Department of Fisher- April 2009; since that time the plan provide any necessary legal authority to assist in the im- traffic and the other against the pro- ies. The protocol outlines how DFO has been under review. The plan asks plementation of this Protocol; and THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that “The Lyell Island Song” posed pipeline. and the Guardians will respond to for two halibut licenses with 47,000 is declared “The National Anthem of the Haida Nation”. abuses specifically on the Tow Hill pounds of quota, one black cod li- WHEREAS Haida citizens and leadership, in co-operation The Haida Nation will continue to beach. cense with 28,000 pounds and a with our lawyers, have developed the Kaay Guu Ga ga RESOLUTIONS - CONT’D NEXT PAGE work with neighbouring First Nations crab license that will fit a 50–60 foot Kyah ts’as – Gin ‘inaas ‘laas ‘waddluwaan gud tl’a gud gi- as well as municipalities and orga- MARINE PLANNING vessel. Though these requests are still nizations dedicated to stopping the Marine planning continues through under consideration, DFO has allo- proposed pipeline. 2011. The planning area covers cated CHN 36,259 pounds of halibut him realize what he didn’t want to do. At that job he Haida Marine Traditional Territories and 18,966 pounds of black cod on worked at a farm cleaning horse stables, and he hated it. FOOD FISH and will eventually become part of a short-term basis. He realized he didn’t want to do that kind of work and Over the years the Nation has expe- the Pacific North Coast Manage- that he wanted to be his own boss. Later on when he was rienced an escalating abuse of food ment Area (PNCIMA), which includes HERITAGE AND NATURAL RE- in high school he thought he would pursue a career in ar- fishing. “This is of particular concern northern Vancouver Island and SOURCES chitecture but after struggling with the physics course he on the Sockeye rivers. It is not the Queen Charlotte Sound to the Alas- This past year saw the combining of realized he didn’t want to go through seven years of post- people in need of food who are of kan border. The CHN is working in the Lands & Waters, Forestry, and secondary school. concern. In any case, these are our collaboration with Central and North Archaeology committees into one own kids and relatives and if we are Coast First Nations through the committee called the Heritage and He wasn’t sure what he wanted to do so he turned to the going to take responsibility for our Coastal First Nations organization. Natural Resources Committee. This own lives, we also have to ensure new committee reviews and makes family business and apprenticed with his father, Robert that it isn’t our own people who are All types of information are be- recommendations on applications Davidson and uncle, Reggie. He also apprenticed with the threat to our fish,” said Guujaaw. ing used to inform marine planning regarding lands and waters – ev- John Livingston, an artist from Vancouver Island, who – including traditional knowledge erything from road permits, gravel taught him, among other things, how to rough out a to- A draft food fish policy has made the and fisheries, ecological, and eco- pit expansion, fuel storage tanks to tem pole with a chainsaw. He apprenticed with his father rounds of both villages seeking feed- nomic data. For more information herbicide use. With a heavy and in- Ben Davidson at work in his studio in Skidegate. and his uncle for four and a half years and then worked back on the direction and scope of contact the Haida Fisheries Program creasing workload the committee is with them for another three and half years. the policy. There will also be public and watch for maps and handouts working hard to develop a process meetings – please involve yourself. in your community, based on the re- that is streamlined, efficient and will TO PASS ON EVERYTHING When asked what he would like to pass on to the young- cently completed Haida Marine Tra- still flag issues that may have impact By Justine Parnell er generation looking to pursue a career in art he said he RAZOR CLAMS ditional Knowledge Study on Haida cultural and heritage val- would like to pass on everything he has been taught. He With the increase of a harvest rate ues. Their turn-around on applica- I spoke with well-known carver, Ben Davidson, and asked thinks that artists should educate our selves about how from 12.3% to 22% of the estimated SGAAN KINGHLAS – BOWIE tions is typically 3–4 weeks. • him what made him want to pursue carving as a way of Haida art works and the proper way to use it. He said that 480,000 lbs of clams available for SEAMOUNT MARINE PROTECTED life, who his teachers were, and what he would like to pass he is willing to teach anyone wanting to learn; he wants 2010, diggers caught 311,732 lbs AREA on to the younger generation looking at art as a career. to keep our culture alive by passing on what he knows between February 25 and June 30th. The Haida Technical Team continues through this generation so that future generations can un- Digging was closed for July and Au- to work with DFO to draft a man- Ben told me about his first summer job and how it made derstand this knowledge as well. • gust but resumed again September agement plan for the protected area

12 13 Haida Laas - News of the Haida Nation October 2010

RESOLUTIONS – FROM PAGE 13 Cynthia Samuels RESOLUTIONS – FROM PAGE 14 Haida Proclamation WHEREAS the official languages of the Haida Nation are WHEREAS changing the annual House of Assembly sched- Haida and English; and ule from January to October, a change that was made to HoA – Saturday Meetings make travel to either community safer by avoiding winter WHEREAS a resolution was tabled WHEREAS the Skidegate Haida Immersion Program (SHIP) road conditions but which did not consider the impact and approved at the January 2010 has gifted a Haida translation of the Proclamation con- this would have on other meeting schedules; All Leaders Process meeting, requir- tained in the Constitution of the Haida Nation; ing that Council of the Haida Na- THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that in accordance with the tion (CHN) quarterly and All Leaders THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the 2010 House of As- Haida Constitution, and in the interest of fiscal prudence, Process meetings will be held on the sembly declare that the SHIP translation of the Haida the Council of the Haida Nation will report out four times weekend; and Proclamation be embedded into the Constitution of the per year, once per season, with one of those reporting Haida Nation. times to include the annual House of Assembly, provid- WHEREAS the All Leaders Process ed that the quorum for the Council of the Haida Nation meeting does not have authority REFERENDUM AND GENERAL VOTES identified in clause A.10.S3 is met. over the annual House of Assembly; WHEREAS the Haida Constitution A.4.S6 states that, “All and International Agreements, which go beyond the Man- Haida Fishing Licences and Quotas WHEREAS Saturday in general is an date as laid out in Article 8, must be ratified by at least ¾ WHEREAS the purpose of the Haida fishing license alloca- important day of the week for hold- of the votes cast by a referendum vote of eligible voting tion is to provide Haida people with the opportunity for ing Haida social, cultural, and com- Haida Citizens”, and there are no written policies and jobs and to support Haida families; and munity events; and procedures in place to implement a referendum vote; The newly wed Mr. and Mrs Edenshaw with their wedding party in front of the Tluu Xaada and WHEREAS some licenses and quotas are being sub-leased WHEREAS scheduling the last day of Naay house, Old Massett. The house was packed to overflow with friends and relatives. and are not providing Haidas with jobs; the annual House of Assembly on a WHEREAS the House of Assembly has determined that Saturday significantly reduces the A Wedding to Remember ability to achieve quorum; a “General Vote” will be held based on specific issues as THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Haida fishing licenses By Florence Lockyer directed at a House of Assembly, and there is no written and quotas must be fished by the person that has been A beautiful August day turned into a fabulous August day for the families definition of a general vote and no policies and proce- awarded the license or quota, or person supporting THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that of Beverly Samuels and Donnie Edenshaw. The sun was shining and the birds dures in place to implement a general vote; Haida families, or it will be revoked immediately; and the January 2010 All Leaders Process resolution requiring weekend meet- were singing ... well, a slight over-dramatization but it was a fantastic day. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that those licenses and quotas ings, be reaffirmed as being appli- The Tluu Xaada Naay longhouse in Old Massett was filled to capacity and the Haida Nation Policy Committee be directed to develop may not be sub-leased or they will be revoked; and cable only to CHN quarterly and All overflow of witnesses stood outside waiting patiently to see the newly mar- the definitions, criteria, and policies and procedures for a Leaders Process meetings, and not to ried Mr. and Mrs. Edenshaw. Finally, the wedding party emerged triumphant referendum and a general vote that will be brought to a THAT if licenses or quota are not being fished they will the annual House of Assembly. and jubilant! Pictures were snapped and there were smiles galore! House of Assembly for ratification by Haida Citizens. be revoked and the Council of the Haida Nation Fisher- ies Committee will bring a policy and process that sup- Sport Hunting on Haida Gwaii Then, off like a Haida Gwaii wind, the wedding party spilled into the limo CHN Quarterly Meetings ports this resolution to the 2011 House of Assembly for WHEREAS Haida have the inherent (yes, a limo in Massett, can you believe it?) to begin the honk-around. The WHEREAS the Haida Constitution A.10.S1 states that, adoption. right to live from the land and sea honk-around was one of the longest seen or heard in a long time with cars “Regular sittings of the Council of the Haida Nation will we call Haida Gwaii; and completely filling the highway between Masset and Old Massett. It was an be held quarterly, according to the seasons of the year”; SEAFOOD HARVEST awesome sight and experience. and WHEREAS employment on Haida Gwaii is next to nil; and WHEREAS for a number of years the Haida Nation has been attempting to After the honk-around dinner was served and after dinner speeches acknowl- WHEREAS the Council of the Haida Nation has expe- WHEREAS all salmon, bottom fish, and shellfish harvests “Halt the Hunt” of trophy black bears edged the day’s spectacular events. The Tluu Xaada Naay dance group paid rienced difficulty in scheduling the quarterly, seasonal in Haida Gwaii territorial waters are not delivered to local on Haida Gwaii; and tribute to the couple – who are long-standing members of the group – with meetings because clause A.10.S1 of the Haida Constitu- plants but to mainland plants; and dances specially choreographed with the bride and groom’s family. Most tion has been misinterpreted to mean that there are four WHEREAS there is a need to not only memorable was the bride’s mother taking flight during the Eagle dance reporting out times in addition to the House of Assembly; WHEREAS this impedes local employment for all Haida “Halt the Hunt” of trophy black bears and children emerging from the clam shell in the Raven dance. and Gwaii residents; but to co-manage the hunting of all species on Haida Gwaii; The bride and groom had their dance – women’s and men’s dances. The WHEREAS the Council of the Haida Nation is fiscally ob- THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the love, admiration and joy was evident on everyone’s face and in their beaming ligated and required to streamline the number of meet- Haida Nation develop a policy for all seafood harvested in THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the pride! SPECTACULAR! It was truly a wedding full of Haida pride. ings held in any given year, as there are currently four Haida Gwaii territorial waters; and 2010 House of Assembly direct the quarterly meetings, the annual House of Assembly, meet- Council of the Haida Nation Fisheries BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Council of the Haida Those of you who were at the raising of six poles at last year’s Splash of Art ings of the Hereditary Chiefs Council, Committee meet- Committee to review and redraft Nation put in place policies that, if it is harvested in celebrations may recall Donnie proposing to Bev at the dinner. Talk about a ings, and meetings held with outside agencies, all of the terms of reference to include Haida Gwaii waters, it is to be delivered to Haida Gwaii splash in the water and a ripple effect! Congratulations, Bev and Donnie! • which financially impact the Council of the Haida Nation; game and water fowl hunting processing plants. and on Haida Gwaii. •

14 15 Haida Laas - News of the Haida Nation

Haida Nation Children and Youth Declaration

As Haida Children and Youth, we declare that we have the fol- The Haida Nation Children and Youth Declaration is lowing Rights that are a central part of our cultural heritage made at Haida Gwaii this 19th day of August, 2010 and and legacy. signed and witnessed by the following: • We have the right to live with our parents, grandparents and family members; and in a community that is safe and free Nikta Davis Rose Collison Franklen Edgars Montana Edgars from unhealthy influences and behaviors; Lesane Davidson Wyatt White Myron Edgars • We have the right to access all the resources that the land, sea, Chloe Good Aria Pryce Nicholas Knapton and air have to offer; Rylie Stocker Chloe Sosick Dylan Condrotte • We have the right to practice our culture, language and tradi- Veikko Kettunen Alex Buxton Jesse Condrotte Stephanie Markham Daniel Morgan Jessica-Anne Fairweather tions in a manner that expresses who we are as young Haida; Sheldon Smith Stacey Edinger Jayden Robbins • We have the right to be informed and meaningfully involved Lydia Smith Gitla Edinger Braedon Robbins in the governance affairs of the Nation; Ileah Mattice Fish Moraes • We have the right to freedom of choice and expression, Rebecca Holte Kole Jones Cole Edinger Chaz Wilson Tyler Jones Adam Stuart particularly as this relates to our individuality; Ryleigh Brennan Bo Walker Lily Williams • We have the right to play having access to appropriate sports Camellia Brennan Kennedy Jones Ruben Williams and recreation facilities; and George Morrison Crystal Young Clifford Glendale • We have the right to design and deliver programs, services, in- Martina Abrahams Raven Young Eric Glendale Marissa Abrahams Piper White Devon Marks terventions and events that support our needs and aspirations. Shayenne Abrahams Mike Gravelle Kimberly Lightbown Olivia Beeching Destiny Davidson Cheyenne Russ We understand that with these Rights come Responsibilities; Ruben Williams Roman McKenzie Blake Zeller that one cannot exist without the other. Lily Williams Tabitha McKenzie Melissa Williams Abigale McLeod Tyra Parker Nathaniel White Katie McLeod Atticus Burton-Adams Mary Williams We are responsible for conducting ourselves in a manner Brandon Russ Daniel Williams Shelby Collinson that bestows respect upon our selves and the Haida Nation as Kaiden Smith Jordon Stewart Carline Young a whole; Amy Marks Chanelle Stewart Jayias Penna Rhianna Marks Mya Edenshaw Niccola Marsden • We are responsible to become informed regarding the affairs Tiffany Marks Heather Stewart Doug Moody of the Haida Nation and how we may contribute to the well- Justice Smith Sarah Edenshaw Alina Mearns being and advancement of our people; Damon Reece Danielle Stewart Travis Shannon • We are responsible to our Elders, past, present and future, en- Sydney Davidson Xavier Swanson Trace Swain Guddaxiigans Yakgujanaax Danny Stewart Jr. Stephanie Pollard suring we lead a life that reflects favourably upon our tradi- Dashaun Brown Cheyanne Smith Meghan Williams tional teachings and values; Devan Boyko Kara Edgars Shawn Marrs • We are responsible for using the resources that the land, sea Issac Strom Amelia Rea-Bell Colton Stewart and air have to offer in a sustainable manner, never taking Eric Markham Dion Lewis Natalie Hunter James Parker Amber Lewis Jessie Marks more than we need, ensuring the resources are there for future Chase Samuels Shania Williams Clayton Marks generations; Ashley Knapton Jonathan Parnell • We are responsible to one another, recognizing that no one Nikkayla Slater Ryder Bell walks alone, all of us belonging to a vibrant, family-based Na- Rayne Boyko Cecile Reece Dakota Russ Natasha Collison tion; Jhett Slater-Collinson Kenneth Reynolds • We are responsible for our choices and the resulting conse- Daylyn Brown Chantal Davis quences, both good and bad, that flows from these choices; Kaisha Richardson Coral Reynolds and Jordon Lewis Kendra Williams Mike Blazic Bradon Bell • We are responsible for our Nation, as the Haida Nation is only Michelle McLeod Brannon Bell as strong as the level of support and input it receives from its’ Lexi Russ Blaine Bell citizens. Derek Zeller Dominic Bolton Jayden Brown Mahalia Smith Jessica Edinger Hazel Smith The Haida Nation will continue to prosper, embracing a child- Liam Pollard Brian Smith centered approach that holds our children and youth in high Erkke Kettlenun Simon Smith regard, recognizing that Haida children and youth are the fu- Teresa Russ Angel Brown ture and the future is now. Zoey Collinson Mary-Jane Edgars Tymeko Collinson Larissa Swanson Lakeye Collinson Stanley Swanson Jr. Peyton Edgars 16