Saddle Lake Nation “Mamawokamatowak”

Whats Inside Saddle Lake Pow Wow 2019 Saddle Lake Western Days Baggage to Bundles Performance and much more!

July/August 2019 Edition “Mamawokamatowak” O TANSI N As a band member of the Sad- COMMUNITY HEALTH I dle Lake Cree Nation, I would *Support to access funding for mental health aware- like to express my heartfelt ness and prevention. Note: The second proposal is in H thanks and appreciation for all for additional monies which includes a detox bed. of the progressive work that our *Support the Jordan’s Principle initiative. C previous leadership had under- INFRASTRUCTURE and working with Program Directors/ I taken. Here are some of the Managers highlights that I know of; *Support and negotiation to complete the new Fire K Hall. I COMMUNITY UNITY *Support and negotiation to complete the Bison Auto *The Community Gatherings held every solstice where renovation. S at least one Cultural teaching was shared with our *Support to put solar panels on the Arena. K people. *Support to pave several parking lots which included *Program and Services presentations where all shared the Tribal Administration, Onchaminahos School, the W their visions, activities and budgets. All presentations Fire Hall and Kihew Asiniy School. are public and are in the newsletter and on the new *Support to the “0 Trust” to purchase an apartment in A website. . *Programs and Services working together to hold com- *Support and negotiation to expand the Health Centre, P munity gatherings. opening this month. O CULTURE AND TRADITION *Planning stages for a new Elementary School and *Pipe ceremonies and sweat lodge ceremonies before Seniors facility. W every large community event and meeting, bringing *Support to open a Pool Hall and a Bottle Depot. back our traditional practices at all levels. *Began the process of a new N/S road, will take time. I *An increase of knowledge transfer activities and land *New fire truck and water trucks, cost-shared. N based teachings in the school system and in the com- TREATY PROTECTION munity. *Strategic planning to educate the people in the areas *Accessing the knowledge of our Elders by the estab- of Treaty and our history, several meetings and pre- lishment of advisory councils. sentations and information in the newsletter and new *Prayers and pipe ceremonies specifically for the peo- website. ple and the land base of Saddle Lake. *Staying strong on Treaty by not accepting the 10 year TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY grants. *Newsletter, new website, face book page to keep both *Created an alliance with Onion Lake who shared all of on and off reserve members informed. their progressive work in Treaty Based which included *Band meetings presenting the financial audit as well as their laws as a result we are much further ahead due to posted in the newsletter and website. The following are their help. the band meetings we have had during this leaderships *Working on the gathering of our statistical information term; May 15, 2017, June 2017, September 25, 2018, to support our needs-based approach December 21, 2018, January 24, 2019, February 2019 *The draft is completed, and we are almost ready for a and April 10th 2019, and an Emergency Band meeting treasury board submission, for a “Treaty Based Arrange- on May 29th, 2019. ment”, under Health. *Plans were in place to have podcasts, which will likely happen this year. URBAN MEMBERSHIP ENGAGEMENT *Completed the election reform and remained in com- *The start of having a Urban Christmas Party for our pliance with the courts. off-reserve members in Edmonton. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT *The start of having band information meetings in Ed- *Several groups of community members at large who monton and in Goodfish Lake. were established to work on contentious issues such as *A new fb page and website to include information the election reform. sharing with off reserve members. *8 Band meetings, band information sessions (we have CLAIMS had 5), emergency meetings to inform, engage and to *Began the process of Cows and Plows, we are in Phase get direction from the people. one which is the research stage. 2 continued on page 3... *Had an offer for the Gas Cost Plus which the member- FEASIBILITY STUDIES COMPLETED ship rejected for future negotiation. *N/S Road, Waterline Expansion, Elementary School, *Began the process for a Renegade Bands claim. Seniors Lodge/Facility, and 40 Acre/Housing. This means *Escalated“Mamawokamatowak” the land claim. we are shovel ready if INAC (ISC) finds money to fund EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING these necessities of life. *Initiated an agreement with Seven Lakes to employ 70 INITIATED of our band members. *A review of the Saddle Lake Constitution, still needs to *Supported the Direct Hire event, hopefully this“Mamawokamatowak” will be be brought forward to the people for ratification. annual. *Strategic planning in law development. CHILD WELFARE *Wahkohtowin’s“Mamawokamatowak” group home flipped to a family helping Thank you Eddy Makokis, Terry Cardinal, Robbie house (miyo-wihcitokamihk). To support families versus Moosewah, Sam Cardinal, Leslie Stienhauer, Pauline apprehension. Hunter, John Large, Darryl Quinney and Late Herb Cardi- *Started contracting out work to our membership“Mamawokamatowak” nal. (still with Wahkohtowin) to do youth work, parent aid, May Creator bless and honor you for the love that you cultural support and to also provide in home support to have for our people and our home of Saddle Lake. families.“Mamawokamatowak”Let us move forward Saddle Lake. Congratulations“Mamawokamatowak” to the new “Mamawokamatowak” SaddleLake Cree Nation Chief and Council “Mamawokamatowak”

Chief Eric Shirt Cherrilene Steinhauer

Council Members Pamela Quinn

Eddy Makokis James Steinhauer

John Large Jason Whiskeyjack Leonard Jackson Darcy McGilvery 3 “Mamawokamatowak” An Observation of the“Executive Sum- mary of the Final Report of the Nation Inquiry into the National Inquiry into the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls”

by Eric John Large, – June 2019 Indigenous peoples of their right to culture, health, security, and justice. In regard to confronting the lack of human rights In the heading “Reclaiming Power and Place”, the Final Report “… and ensuring security the Inquiry Report, 36/121 p. 33 of text, calls for transformative legal and social changes to resolve the cri- notes “An unwillingness on the part of institutions to address sis…” of the devastation on Indigenous communities nationally these issues maintains a status quo that ensures that the crisis through the violence perpetrated on Indigenous women and girls of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQ1A and 2SLGBTQQ1A people. This is an early signal in the report of chal- people continues”. The Report, 37/121 p. 34 of text, signals to lenges of transforming of ingrained attitudes and practices in current federal and provincial governments and agencies of “The lack legal and social circles. of political will for changes to relevant legislation, policies, and funding…related to ending violence have a direct bearing on In online page 5, p. 2 of the text of the 121 page Executive Sum- the right to safety and security of Indigenous, women, girls, mary, genocide is synonymous with legal scholar Raphael Lemkin’s and 2SLGBTQQ1A”. definition as “…a coordinated plan of different actions aiming at the destruction of essential foundations of the life of national groups, For meaningful change to occur, the Report calls for “Greater with the aim of annihilating the groups themselves”. Through truth interjurisdictional cooperation…to address violence against gatherings and hearings beginning in 2016 the inquiry collected cred- Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQ1A people”, 38/121 ible accounts of violence against Indigenous, Métis, and Inuit women p.35 text. and girls from survivors, family members, and Institutional and -Ex pert and Knowledge Keepers. The inquiry was able to link Canada’s The Inquiry, 39/121 p. 36 text, also studied testimonial evi- role in perpetuating colonial theory and practices such as residential dence that points out how resource extraction works can school and the Sixties Scoop in a cycle of violence, racism, gender increase violence against Indigenous women and girls, for oppression, and socio-economic marginalization of Indigenous peo- example, through harassment and assault, rotational work, ples. Page 19/121 p. 16 of text the Inquiry highlights human rights substance abuse/addictions, and economic insecurity. In- re violations expressed by Inquiry witnesses in regard to international gard to the Call for Justice, the Report notes “Lack of institu- conventions and declarations such as: tional will to change the criminal justice system manifest most clearly in the descriptions of police apathy…involving violence - the International Convention of the Prevention and Punish- against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQ1A people… ment of the Crime of Genocide apathy often in the form of stereotyping and victim blam- ing…” 41/121 p. 38 text. The Report also found that families - the International Convention on the Elimination and Preven- had often observed “…the court processes inadequate, unjust, tion of All Forms of Racial Discrimination and retraumatizing…this experience …magnified by…[so] that families may be forced to seek justice within a process and an - the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights institution that have historically been unjust and that continue to criminalize Indigenous people at much greater rates than - the International Convention on Economic , Social, Cultural non-Indigenous Canadians”, 41/121 p. 38 text. While the Re- Rights port states there are numerous principles of justice in interna- tional human rights law that can support priorities identified - the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimi- by survivors and families, it notes that Canada has the respon- nation Against Women sibility to take all means to “…prevent, investigate, punish, and compensate” violence against women, 42/121 p. 39 text. The - the Convention on the Rights of the Child; and Report acknowledges the encounters reported reveal critical - the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous challenges between Indigenous people and justice systems set up to protect them. Page 40 of the Executive Summary refers Peoples. to the weaknesses to policy changes, services, and supports to The challenge for States and Nations is that some of these declara- justice for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQ1A people tions and conventions are optional but they highlight the human obli- and families, and weakness regarding the inclusion of relation- gations to ensure the health, safety, and security of Indigenous wom- ship. There are ingrained attitudes in policing (arresting and en, girls, and 2SLGBTkQQ1A people. The Inquiry Report links these jailing) and in the incarceration as an industry characterized human and international rights declarations and conventions with its by an overwhelming percentage of Indigenous women in the 4 findings and Calls to Justice that focus on the crucial importance to female prison inmates. There are inadequate practices in the “Mamawokamatowak” penal institutions, lack of standards, dehumanization, and lack current Western social and legal scene and at the political scene of mental and spiritual supports. whether at the highest or administrative level. The fourth path- way is “ignoring the agency and expertise of Indigenous women, A positive recommendation, 44/121 p. 41 text, is “The Need to girls, and 2SLGBTQQ1A people”. This will require organization Reform Law Enforcement to Increase Safety”. This concern had and coordination of efforts at the local, provincial, and national been raised by policing representatives as part of the efforts in levels in the provision of support systems and should include the responding to violence against Indigenous women, girls, and expertise of families and communities of Missing and Murdered 2SLGBTQQ1A people. The representatives also acknowledged Indigenous Women and Girls. historical and current harms, expressed how policing protocols and procedures can be updated, and how non-Indigenous and In 57/121 p. 54 of the text, the Report notes that the Inquiry has Indigenous police can work together to protect Indigenous peo- been assigned to issue mandated recommendations, aka “Calls ple. to Action”, which it states are legal imperatives which derive from international and domestic human rights and Indigenous “Section 3 – Healing Families, Communities, and Nations”, 46/121 rights laws. The practical challenges of recognizing and applying p. 43 text, states this obvious need at the macro level though it the Calls and recommendations lie within Canada’s Parliament is somewhat, at first glance, condescending as though someone (House of Commons, Senate, Committee Hearings, and Royal or some entity outside of Indigenous and Nations will design, Assent) and similar processes in Provincial, Territorial, and Mu- impose, and administer what it deems best for Indigenous peo- nicipal legislatures. The Principles for Changes stated in 58/121 ple. I hope that all the testimonies, statements, and constructive p. 55 text are fine but must go beyond rhetoric and aspiration- suggestions of the Inquiry witnesses are taken seriously in con- al phraseology such as “substantive equality”. The principles in fronting violence and in supporting healing. These positive sug- pages 55 to 59 are essential as are the “Overarching Findings” gestions include culturally safe as well as Western methods be in pages 60 to 61 that call for changes that call for a focus on used in reducing trauma in people’s journey of recovery. Indige- human and Indigenous Rights, decolonizing, inclusion of Indige- nous people value the connections with themselves, their fami- nous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQ1A people, Indigenous led im- lies including men and boys, and their communities or Nations. plementation, recognition of distinction of Indigenous peoples, Indigenous peoples need to be free to do this in confidence and safety, and trauma-based approach. with their own traditions of kinship and to express their own ex- istential beliefs and practices, and ceremonies. The Inquiry calls for all governments to take heed and act on the “Calls for Action” as outlined in 68/121 p. 65 to 72/121 p. One very important suggestion is the establishment of a national 69 in the areas of culture, health and wellness, human security, repository or archives of MMIW and Girls, 47/121 p. 50 text, as and justice. I wish to highlight the Call for Justice for Media and a record of the failure of Canada in providing for the safety of Social Influencers as these producers and commentators exert women and girls and in upholding or failing to uphold interna- considerable influence on public perceptions for good or ill-will. tional human rights standards of dignity, health and wellness. I also value “Calls for Attorneys and Law Societies”, 82/121 p. I think this repository or archives should house critical infor- 79 text, that recommends all players undertake training in In- mation of the progress of the efforts of all segments of Cana- digenous cultures and histories. I am not certain why judges of dian society such as the political, legal, and social institutions various levels of appointment are not included but should be in addressing violence to women and girls. This repository and included. I commend “Calls for Justice for All Canadians”, 88/121 its records would also serve to urge governments and agencies p. 85, to oppose violence against Indigenous women, girls, and to design strategy, provide resources for violence reduction, and 2SLGBTQQ1A people and to promote their safety and for Canadi- assess the effectiveness of violence reduction measures. ans to apprise themselves of the Call for Justice. I also commend the Calls for Justice specific to Inuit and Métis people, 91/121 I suggest that all programs or departments at the community or p. 88 to 103/121 pp 88 to 100, as their histories, cultures, and Nation level work together despite the silos within their man- experiences are similar to Indigenous First Nation peoples. The dates or work-plans such as social development, child-welfare, Calls for Justice specific to 2SLGBTQQ1A people urge for more health, and human resources in supporting young struggling awareness of issues that pertain to specific and distinct group- families. Sometimes a young couple or single parent needs em- ing, history, current place, ceremony, supports, and safety in the ployment, training or education re-entry, or to pay rent. Young service areas of policing, education, justice, socio-economic ini- families or single parents should be assisted on an emergency tiatives, health and recovery, and child-welfare. I wish to empha- basis rather than have their child or children taken and therefor size the importance of adequate support funding by all levels of disrupting the familial or emotion bond. (I had once been told governments in providing awareness of issues and implemen- this by Catherine Twinn of Edmonton, ). tation of action plans, support programs, updated and accurate In the heading “Calls for Justice”, 56/121, p. 53 text, a challenge data retrieval, inclusion of 2SLGBTQQ1A in employment in the is raised to everyone, governments, agencies, though it does not design and administration of support programs. I commend the mention to whom specifically, for a permanent commitment to inclusion of youth in mentorship and leadership programs with end colonial violence and genocide through engaging the “path- adequate funding, and that all governments and service provid- ways” explored in the Report. The first pathway is historical, ers be obligated to provide ceremonial and cultural places for multigenerational, and intergeneration trauma. I submit this 2SLGBTQQ1A youth and adults, Call for Action 18.10. I commend requires cultural and/or therapeutic support in a safe and confi- that “all police services to better investigate crimes against dential setting as needed. The second pathway is social and eco- 2SLGBTQQ1A peoples and ensure accountability for investigat- nomic marginalization. I submit this requires continual efforts ing and handling of cases…”, Call for Action 18.12. I commend “… and encouragement of Indigenous peoples to pursue education, federal and provincial correctional services…provide dedicated training, and employment. The third pathway is maintaining the 2SLGBTQQ1A support services and cultural supports…”, Call for status quo and institutional lack of will. This is a challenge to the Action 18.22. I further commend that “…all governments…ad- dress homelessness, poverty, and other socio-economic barriers 5 “Mamawokamatowak”

to equitable and substantive rights for 2SLGBTQQ1A people”, I recommend that, as an initial step, a First Nation or commu- Call for Action 18.24. nity access the data of the particular circumstances of missing and murder women and girls from their Nation or home area. For whose people live on and off-Reserve there I recommend that First Nation representatives write the Prime are challenges in implementing the Calls for Justice such as po- Minister of Canada, the Ministers of Justice, Indigenous Services tential or real intransigence of the new departments of Crown Canada and copy to the Governor General of the critical impor- and Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, and In- tance of recognizing and implementing the Calls for Justice in digenous Services Canada and recognizing and accommodating the Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered the Calls within or without the that currently gov- Indigenous Women and Girls. I recommend that a First Nation erns directives, policies, and regulations pertaining to Indians or community design a three to five year action plan to assess and Lands Reserved for Indians. I raise the question of which the missing and murdered women and girls of their home Na- government or entity would provide funding for additional ser- tion or community and how preventative and support services vices for the special circumstances of 2SLGBTQQ1A people of could be provided for the survivors and families of missing and the members of a First Nation/community. The Calls for Justice murdered women and girls. Along with this action plan there at best appear to be over-prescriptive. Can the flexibility, as may should be a funding request. be offered or allowed by governments, advocates, Indigenous peoples, and other players, be allowed to enable the design and Source: www.mmiwg-ffada.ca implementation of unique approaches and methods that will protect and advance the health, safety, and wellness of Indig- Sincerely: Eric John Large June 14, 2019 enous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQ1A people without further [email protected] cellphone (780) 614-0064 enabling condescension and paternalism? The 121 page Execu- tive Summary of the Report of the Inquiry is a challenging read Postal address: Eric John Large let alone the 2 Volume 1,200 page plus full report that both require the analytic skills of policy analysts. P. O. Box 375, Saddle Lake, Alberta T0A 3T0, Canada

Elder Advisory Council meet with O’Chiese Community

In June of 2019 the Saddle Lake Elders Advisory Council (EAC) were invited and met with O’Chiese Elders, youth and the O’Chiese Chief and Council to present on their law and policy development work, including the efforts to secure Treaty Adherent agreements and the current road blocks (RRIF, 10 year grants and the Government’s devolution agen- da). Elder Alphonse Delver spoke to much of the work being done by EAC and their role in the community and Norma Large Health Technician gave an update on government funding authorities and the historic and current political en- vironment. Much like the alliance with Onion Lake, where Onion Lake openly shared their information on their processes and law development with Saddle Lake. Saddle Lake has shared with O’Chiese whom is also concerned about the current polit- ical environment with the Government of Canada.

6 “Mamawokamatowak” University of Alberta Honorary Degree Recipient Elder Francis Whiskeyjack received an honorary doctor of He works daily to share cultural knowledge, provide guid- laws degree on June 12, 2019. ance, and act as a mentor. He regularly holds sweat lodge ceremonies and pipe ceremonies for youth at Amisk- A member of Saddle Lake Cree Nation, Elder Francis waciy Academy and for people in the community. Invited Whiskeyjack has devoted his life to teaching traditional to open and speak at numerous community events, Indigenous values to foster understanding and reconcili- he also leads and participates ation between Indigenous and in numerous committees. He is non-Indigenous peoples. He is currently a member of Edmonton passionate about sharing tra- Fringe Theatre Adventures Society ditional knowledge and teach- board of directors. In the past, ings, providing council and he served as a member of Urban mentorship, and promoting Aboriginal Initiatives and the City awareness of Indigenous ways of Edmonton, a participant in of knowing, being and doing. the development of Edmonton’s As a traditional person, he Urban Aboriginal Accord, and strives to walk a balanced, a board member for the Native holistic path and live by the Friendship Centre and the Saddle teachings handed down to Lake Health Board. him from his Elders, namely the late Joe P. Cardinal. Elder Elder Whiskeyjack has served as Whiskeyjack is fluent in the an addictions counsellor for youth Nehiyawewin (Plains Cree) with Poundmakers’s Lodge Treat- language. A residential school ment Centre, as well as a coun- survivor and an accomplished sellor and traditional arts teacher artist, musician and cultur- for the Edmonton Public School al teacher, he promotes the Board. He has also participated learning and retention of the at the Dreamcatcher Indigenous Nehiyawewin language. Youth Conference at MacEwan University for the past five years. Elder Whiskeyjack completed his grade twelve education As an elder, his extensive knowl- in Edmonton. He has worked edge about the Medicine Wheel, for over 15 years as an elder Indigenous culture and history, and cultural advisor at Amisk- and traditional holistic healing waciy Academy, and Edmonton techniques has informed the work public school board program of many educational and health- of choice that provides aca- care institutions, including the demic programming within an Edmonton Public School Board, Indigenous context and serves a large Indigenous student Alberta Health Services, MacEwan University, Concordia population. He works at Amiskwaciy to support students University, and the University of Alberta. In 2010, he was and staff but also works from Amiskwaciy to serve the appointed as an adjunct professor at the University of boarder Edmonton community. Alberta, where he also serves as a student advisor to the First Peoples’ House and as a Convocation Elder at gradu- ation ceremonies. 7 “Mamawokamatowak”

Water Delivery and Emergency Services

Robert Hector Cardinal (Sonny) is the Saddle Lake Fire Chief/ Water Delivery Supervisor and Assistant Director of Emergency We have 6 water truck drivers who work Monday to Friday Management and official parts runners, which is a constant task and 2 part-time drivers who work weekends. In the past in order to maintain the water trucks, to remain operational. there was two shifts, with a total of 14 drivers, but due to funding cut backs we had to downsize. It really is difficult The water truck driver’s main role is to deliver water, but they for our drivers and myself to take a vacation or even sick are also required to assist voluntary on the fire department. Its days, as we work hourly. If we are not working then we do water delivery first until we have an emergency then all water not get paid. Unfortunately, we at public works due to fed- delivery is on hold and they respond to whatever incidents that eral funding short falls and cut backs we can no longer af- occur. For example, if there is a fire they stop water delivery and ford to operate any other way. fight fire or if there is an accident they respond with EMS onsite. So essentially, they deliver water, respond to fire and respond CHALLENGES to emergencies. Its not an easy job, its full of challenges. For example, some- times I lose my water truck drivers to PTSD, because its dif- Sonny speaking ficult to see and process the emergencies that we need to We get support from staff from Public Works for example from attend to, it could be very traumatic especially when loss roads who have the equipment when we need it, they are a of life has occurred. Some of the emergencies that we re- part of our emergency services, we work together unofficially, spond to are accident scenes, cardiac arrest, death, suicide, but we are part of the same Public Works Program. The Public disaster, fire and we participate and assist with search and Works staff do step in and support when the Water Truck driv- rescue when necessary. ers need a break so that water delivery can continue. Another challenge is the cut backs from Alberta Health The fires that we do attend are mainly man made, we do have Services and now we can only train with BLS, Basic Life certain community members that chronically set grass fires Support, whereas if we could get ALS, Advanced Life Sup- every year that go out of control. They cause threats to other port then we could do more, administer drugs and support homes and other people’s livelihood and it also becomes a safe- cardiac arrest while we wait for EMS. Sometimes it takes a ty concern for everyone around and a high risk for our elderly while for EMS to arrive. For example, when a call is made it 8 who have health issues and for people with respiratory issues. goes to a central dispatch location and whomever is avail- “Mamawokamatowak” able responds to our emergency. If our Saddle Lake ambulance is busy then the call for response goes to St. Paul and if they are Our level of services would increase if we could separate busy Smoky Lake responds and so forth. Once when Smoky Lake the emergency services from water delivery and the fire de- had to respond it took 45 minutes. Another time we had 3 scenes partment, because of course to fight fire we need water so at once and we had 3 different ambulances and we had to wait those two go hand in hand. Ultimately all of these services different times for each to arrive, two of the scenes at that time need to work together. But with the size of our population were accidents and thankfully they were not fatal. which is over 10,000 and with 6,000 who live on-reserve we need to be thinking of future population increases and Additional training would allow us to do more to support the having more people, more training and equipment to meet work paramedics do for victims, sometimes they need help with the need for these services. To tender out this work would an extra hand and most times we are the first on the scene. We be highly expensive and is considered a jurisdictional mat- can provide CPR, but not much else. If we had Medical First Re- ter and they would not know our people and would have sponders Training and ALS, we would be trained enough to start difficulty locating where they live. So tendering out is really the process to help victims, especially those experiencing cardiac not an option. arrest. Sonny, “Some of the challenges are our people, our roads, our trucks, and funding. All my truck drivers have a class 1, and this allows us to drive the ” ambulance when the paramedics need to work in the back and *Our people are very impatient and can be aggressive and need that extra hand, we have done that multiple times. In one abusive when calling for water. It can be very disheartening. scene, I had 3 of my drivers driving 3 different ambulances so In almost all cases we cannot deliver immediately, it can that the paramedics could work on the victims. take up to 24hrs, so we need people to store water as a back up. We have 6 routes, we generally run 365 days of the year, unless *Some of our people call up to 3 times a week for water; of course there is a fire or an emergency that we need to re- large families, livestock owners, gardens, playing with hos- spond to. Sometimes when we are at an emergency scene, we es and sprinklers during the summer. INAC pays for only have community members who demand water delivery, even one load per week, extra water trips are not funded. after you tell them that you are responding to an emergency. I *We have about 35 people who have a tendency to call think some of them are impatience or they think they are the regularly even when they still have water. They think that only ones we deliver water to, but I also think that they are not paying the user fee entitles them to water every week at really aware of everything that we do. the same day and time of the week. If our drivers are not there at that time, they call consistently. The user fee DOES We deliver water to 468 homes that have cisterns. There are NOT include water delivery. about 100 plus homes that are on the main line this includes; all *With the cutbacks, water delivery is from Monday to Fri- band buildings, the townsite area and the line ends at the corner day from 8 to 4:30, with 2 week-end drivers, so if someone church on the northside. There are 22 homes that have wells and calls after hours we cannot respond until the following day. about half are failing, we have had to put in tanks temporarily We use to operate 80 hours a week with 14 drivers, 2 shifts and we have maintained some, but others are going dry. with 7 days on and 7 days off, now we are cut back to 40 hours with 7 drivers, we do what we can in an 8-hour day. Of our 6 drivers, each has about 80 to 85 houses per route per Weather and break downs do cause delays. Some houses truck. We do our best to provide at least one load per house per that are located on the far end of the reserve can take up to week. Although break downs, and the weather conditions and one hour and sometimes two hours to get to two houses. other emergencies do impact our ability to meet our quota. We do try to shoot for 16 to 20 houses a day. *For water delivery, it’s the roads, age and overuse of our Our biggest challenge for water delivery is mother nature, ex- water trucks. If we had a program like health who can up- treme rain or cold and heavy snowfall. All of this affects our grade their vehicles after they mile out at 300,000 then that trucks and our ability to have timely delivery. This summer the would help our department. Two of our older water trucks heavy rainfall has caused more damage and break downs than continued on page 17... we usually experience. Its not only our water trucks but our per- sonal units have taken a beating because of the road conditions.

The new fire hall has been in the planning stage for almost 20 years, the building was once an agricultural building and was condemned about 8 years ago. The building has allowed us to have both a fire hall and an emergency services space, in the past we have used the Council Chambers as our emergency services meetings. 9 Saddle Lake Western Days Bull Riding - Bull Fighting - Chuckwagon Races - Indian Relay Races - Calf Scramble - Wild Pony Race - Mutton Bustin - Local Cow riding

10 Kenton Cardinal, from Saddle Lake Cree Nation was one of 150 Canadian students who received a $10,000 Ted Rogers Scholarship for 2019. He was nominated by members of the Regional High School faculty through the Ted Rogers Scholarship Partner, Indspire. Kenton was very involved in the school and made an inspirational impact on the teachers, staff and students. Ted Rogers was a Canadian entrepreneur who founded the media and communications powerhouse Rogers. He was a passionate advocate for education and dedicated to investing in youth. The Ted Rogers scholarship was founded in 2017. The goal of the scholarship is to help young leaders across the country succeed in their educational aspirations. Indspire is a national Indigenous registered charity that invests in the education of Indigenous people for the long term benefit of these individuals, their families and communities, and Canada. The vision is to enrich Can- ada through Indigenous education and by inspiring achievement. In partnership with Indigenous, private and public sector stakeholders, Indspire educates, connects and invests in Indigenous people so they will achieve their highest potential. Congratulations Kenton! SADDLESADDLELAKELAKE 20192019 PRINCESSESPRINCESSES Our official princesses for the 2019 are; Senior Princess Kaydence Jackson, Junior Princess Aurora Whiskeyjack and Tiny Tot Princess Kianna Redcrow. Congratulations to all! The coordination for the SLCN Pow wow Princess competition was Shaelene Quinn and Shawnee Makokis. This year a total of nine young ladies formally ran for the title of princess. They get judged on the amount of tickets sales, dance, speech, and regalia presentation. Senior Princess is 13 to 17yrs, Junior Princess is 7 to 12yrs and Tiny Tot is 2 to 6yrs. The role of the Princesses is to be a role model for other young girls, especially in the pow wow circle with dance. For the year of 2019/2020 they represent Saddle Lake Cree Nation at events which include other pow wows. Shaelene Quinn, Coordinator said, “The role of the princess empowers the girls in many ways. They gain a sense of identity. They desire to learn more about the language and culture. They become future leaders. It’s definitely an honour to be a part of the girl’s journey to represent Saddle Lake Cree Nation for their one-year term.” The crowns were made by Bear Roan and the sashes were made by Roxanne Pasquayak.

11 Edmonton Journal Edmonton Sun UNESCO honours Saddle Lake Cree Nation student for story on MOIRA WYTON Updated: July 21, 2019

Bella Morrisseau Whiskeyjack, 9, poses for a photo, in “The conditions I experienced in Saddle Lake is what a Wednesday July 17, 2019. Bella recently lot of First Nation families go through,” reads her speech. won a story competition for her book on Treaty 6. Photo “The First Nations people are still waiting for what they by David Bloom were promised 143 years ago.”

Bella Morrisseau Whiskeyjack has been writing since “she At the urging of Elder Wilson Bearhead to turn her the could get pen to paper” when she was four. She just didn’t speech into a book for the UNESCO competition, she realize she would be a published author before she had wrote for hours — “I even skipped watching TV with my even started Grade 5. brother” — to turn it into a page-turner in just four days.

The member of Saddle Lake Cree Nation and Sherwood UNESCO is a United Nations agency focused on building Park student recently won silver in the 2019 Indigenous international cooperation through educational, scientific Child Author Competition through the UNESCO Voices of and cultural pursuits. Future Generations Children’s Initiative for a book she wrote about Treaty 6. Her grandfather, Merle Morrisseau, is her “biggest fan,” “I’ve always wanted to make other people happy with my and helped her choose images to illustrate her personal stories,” Morrisseau Whiskeyjack, 9, says as she sits in the story. The two travelled to Victoria, B.C., with her older Strathcona County Library. “And I was doing research for brother Cashton last weekend to accept the award at Gov- my speech and I found out that Saddle Lake was part of ernment House. “It was like a big palace,” she said. Treaty 6, so I started to write about that because I wanted to make my family happy.” Morrisseau Whiskeyjack will now become a child ambas- sador for UNESCO and her book will be published in six With the support of her teacher, Morrisseau Whiskeyjack languages — plus Cree, she hopes — in a collection of sto- wrote a speech called “Honour the Treaties” for a com- ries from other youth around the world. petition in the Elk Island Public School District earlier this year. In her speech, she details the history of Treaty 6, She is focusing her summer on water fights and finishing which was signed between First Nations and the Crown in the fourth Harry Potter book, but she is already planning 1876, and how many of the promises made have not been her next story about a young French boy in the 19th cen- fulfilled over a century later. tury who changes the treaty before it is signed. “My past life has been very difficult because of one simple contract,” she wrote. “I am one of many strong and proud members of the Sad- dle Lake Cree Nation who have walked these lands for thousands of years,” her speech reads.” I will not allow my Beyond just history, Morrisseau Whiskeyjack’s speech tells people and the problems they face to be ignored any lon- her personal story of living the ongoing effects of Treaty 6 ger.” in Saddle Lake. She describes living in a house with leaks and mould, daycare and preschool with teachers who did not treat her well, and being sick often with little access12 to [email protected] medicine or health care. twitter.com/moirawyton 12 “Mamawokamatowak” Baggage to Bundles Project #Truth First

“Baggage to Bundles” was a dramatic and moving theatrical perfor- Jarvis Jackson as Ty mance presented to the school and community on June 17th and 18th. “I believe our language and ceremonies can lead us to a healthy way The production was outstanding, it felt powerful and moved most ev- to be in the world.” eryone with a tear or two. Cole Steinhauer as Cameron Rayanne Charlie from Maple Ridge, B.C. , director, playwright and pro- “The complete understanding of joy eludes me, but perhaps one day I ducer coordinated the project. “The synopsis to “Baggage to Bundles” will understand the concept.” is about the truths living here in Saddle Lake and on reserves across Turtle Island. It is about their stories of struggle, disappointment and Taylor Cardinal as Karissa complex trauma. The play weaves together traditional songs, dance “I want to live a fulfilling life in every way.” and narrative to bring our characters on a journey into healing.” Josie Cardinal as Tiarra PERFORMERS PERSONAL STATEMENTS (excerpts from program) “I dream of people caring for Mother Earth and each other regardless of race, religion or gender.” Shalayna McGilvery as kohkom, “I would love to see more kids involved in our culture and language. Izzabelle Quinn as Darien Getting involved and being part of the solution is so important and I “I would love to learn how to fancy dance for pow wows.” feel that by sharing our stories we can move forward together.” Bryce Kakeesim as Bennie Utin Cardinal as Uncle Joe “I don’t have to wish; I just know that our culture and language will “As I look forward to our collective future I hope my generation grows flourish once again.” up to do great things for our children.” A huge and hearfelt thank you to the many who helped in ever so Tauri Nokohoo as Sabrina many ways to support this production. It was more than a production “I hope that all my nieces and nephews grow up to be strong and say it was means to healing intergenerational trauma. no to drugs.”

Farah Steinhauer as Cori “My wishes are for the youth to come back to our school to partici- pate in ceremonies again. It is an honour to be part of such a spiritual school.”

13 “Mamawokamatowak”“Mamawokamatowak”

were Eva Stamp-Cardinal and Celina Steinhauer-McGilvery.

On December 10, 1945, at the age of 14 she married our Late Father Peter Jr. Cardinal and they started our family. The mar- riage nuptials lasted for 60 years. Of those years, she gave life to 12 children, Mary Cardinal-Collins, Ilene Nepoose, Denise (Mike) Steinhauer, Nora (Eric) Cardinal, Linda Cardinal, Brian (Kathy) Cardinal, Debra Cardinal, Dolly Cardinal, and Roxanne Cut- knife. Three of our siblings have since passed on Leon Cardinal, Lorraine Cardinal and Herbert Cardinal. The six Grandchildren she raised, Sheldon (Roberta) Cardinal, Benita (Greg) Desjar- lais, Reanna (Gullion) Jackson, Sherisse (Jordy) Houle, Naomi Cutknife and Steven Cardinal. Adopted Family, Louise Large, Louis Moosewah and Armand Cardinal. Numerous Nieces and Nephews, 50 Grandchildren (Osisima), 86 Great-grandchildren Therese Lucille Cardinal (tans anskocapan) and 14 great-great grandchildren. Nikawiy was there to support late Adeline Dennhey and she was also 1931-2019 a caregiver to her late mother Isabelle Batoche, her late sister Mommasnow (Matilda Favel), late Auntie Louisa Large in their Therese L. Cardinal, maiden name Batoche (Nikawiy) was born at final days. the Old General Hospital in Edmonton, Alberta on March 12, 1931 Nikawiy was a hard worker, she instilled this resilience onto her to her biological parents Madeline Johnston and Joe Broussau. children and grandchildren as well to the families that were in Nikawiy was later adopted at 5 months of age and raised by Paul need. She demonstrated this in various ways; Assisting her late and Isabelle Batoche in Saddle Lake, Alberta. She grew up on a husband with; the farm which had livestock and also worked in farm on the Saddle Lake reserve along with her adopted brother her abundant garden. Geese and chickens ran wild in the yard Walter Makokis. Nikawiy, often spoke fondly of her childhood and and these birds would often hiss and attack the grandkids, almost she mentioned that she enjoyed riding horses bareback with her better security than the guard dogs. Her husband taught her to childhood friend Carolyn Whiskeyjack in the back wagon trails and skin and pack wild game meat and transport it from the hunting fields throughout Saddle Lake Cree Nation. Her childhood friends site – sometimes walking thru waist high snow in the bone chilling

14 “Mamawokamatowak” Alberta winters. She would prepare wild ducks that she often Therese was a dedicated, aggressive hockey fan and enjoyed received from her late Brother Walter. Gardening and picking spending her evenings and weekends watching her grandchil- berries on a regular basis. dren and great grandchildren play. She attended games through- out Alberta, and many times driving Kiyas aspin when there was no electricity and indoor plumbing in sub-zero temperatures. A lot of times her health wasn’t the it was a tedious task to wash clothes. Nikawiy would walk half greatest, yet she still attended the hockey games. Even up until a mile from her house with a steel tub, laundry and us children the days that she wasn’t allowed to drive due to her age, she was to wash clothes down by the slough. She also labored alongside determined to make it to the arena to cheer on Saddle Lake. You her husband and would camp for weeks at a time with her family wouldn’t know with her quiet demeanor, she was the most dedi- during the summer months to generate an income for the family. cated Saddle Lake Hockey Cheerleader. The family would live, work and camp in canvas tents, stooking (harvesting wheat) in Lafond and also hoeing sugar beets on a Mom loved and appreciated Nehiyawak humor. With a distin- farm in Taber, Alberta, and picking fruit in Okanagan Valley, Brit- guished laugh, you always knew where she was situated in a ish Columbia. Up until her 60’s she was helping her husband with crowd. Laughter was her medicine and kept her spirits up. She pounding posts and mending fencing. Nikawiy was self taught had a large smile and had those sunshiney smiley Cardinal eyes. and practiced on a $5 sewing machine, she made her own canvas Therese and family hosted large family gatherings on special oc- tents, moccasins, bags, bonnets and garments all from memory casions and also the Christmas and Easter holidays. She was a without patterns. She also held traditional teaching of making great story teller and enjoys telling stories about her life. She bear grease, and pemmican, people came from far distances for was a respected Elder and a beautiful, compassionate Woman, her expertise. Mother, Wife, Auntie, Kokum, Capan, Teacher and last but, not Saddle Lake Cree Nation has recognized Nikawiy for her work least a Role Model. ethic by presenting her with a plaque for 34 years of dedicated Mom was a dynamic, kind, gentle and generous soul, she be- service and is the longest serving Saddle Lake Cree Nation em- friended people easily. We would like to Thank Thelma Redcrow ployee. She always stressed the importance of a hard work eth- for being her BFF (lingo for Best Friend Forever) to our moth- ic. Often walking on the road from home to the agency to work er. The ladies spent countless hours together, visiting, attending every morning and evening. For numerous years, she served as hockey games, community events and cultural events together. an Elder representative of the Wahkotowin Child Welfare Society They were also room mates for a short while in Two Hills hospital. board. Because of her early life experiences, Nikawiy became an advocate of traditional parenting, family values and promoted She left a legacy of teachings, such as; the significance of child-rearing and Cree culture. She did not Always treat people right and not hold onto grudges, you never receive any formal education throughout her lifetime. As a child, know if that will be the last time that you see them. Sahkihtow- she was told that she had to attend school, so she had cried for in 24 hours to avoid going to school, until her father succumbed to her wishes. She was very intelligent and she could memorize Nikawiy didn’t believe in Welfare, “You work hard for what you information easily. want in life” (Don’t ask for hand outs).

Therese was a very strong advocate of education and empha- If you are going to ceremony, you save up and make sacrifices, it sized the importance of obtaining a formal education to her chil- is more meaningful. dren and grandchildren. Therese was fluent in the Nehiyawak language and was sought out by Nehiyawak language teach- Traditional Parenting. Honor your parents wishes, there is no ers and instructors for translation and interpretation. Therese such thing as telling your parents “No”. When she raised her achieved numerous lifetime accolades such as, an honorary Doc- children, She had final say. torate in and Culture from the Blue Quills First The family would like to thank every person who came to visit Nations College to honor and acknowledge the importance of her Therese, you brought her much joy and sunshine. We would contributions. In May 2014, she was also an honorary recipient also like to thank everyone who cleaned, cooked, brought food, for Esquao Award for Culture – practicing and preserving cultural sang and offered support during this difficult time. practices and Cree way of life. 15 Chief Shirt signs new ISET agreement with Human Resources of Service Canada

On July the 3rd , 2019 Chief Eric Shirt and representatives of vide a framework for the AHRDAs negotiated between HRDC Employment and Social Development Canada and the Canada and various Aboriginal organizations. Nation-wide, 79 AHRDAs Employment Commission signed the newly established, “Indige- had been established, with the intent of providing labour mar- nous Skills and Employment Training Program First Nations Dis- ket programming to all Aboriginal peoples via approximately tinction Funding Agreement.” This agreement is for 2 years, it is 200 sub-agreements and 400 points of service. One such AHRDS known as Indigenous Skills and Employment Training Strategy or ISETS. agreement was the Treaty Six A.S.E.T.S & partners. One of the sub-agreements within Treaty 6 A.S.E.T.s was the Six Indepen- Over the years First Nation involvement with Human Resource dent First Nations that Saddle Lake was a part of which included Development Canada has evolved; Paul First Nation and the 4 nations of Maskwacis; Montana, Lou- is Bull, Ermineskin and Samson. One of the challenges working 1991 – 1996 Pathways with ASETS was when one First Nation did not get their reports 1996 – 1999 RBA - Regional Bilateral Agreement in, all First Nations in the sub-agreement were subjected to a hold back of funds until that First Nation sent in their report. 1999 – 2004 AHRDS I - Aboriginal Human Resource Develop- In 2016 and 2017, HRSDC-Service Canada engaged with key In- ment Strategy digenous partners and organizations across the country to re- 2004 – 2010 AHRDS II - Aboriginal Human Resource Develop- view and renew the Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training ment Strategy Strategy (ASETS). The ISET Program is a result of these engage- ments. 2010 – 2017 ASETS - Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training Strategy The ISET Program builds on what was successful about ASETS Developed in the 1990’s the “Pathways to Success” strategy and reflects what was heard from Indigenous partners toin- reflected the principle that local Aboriginal control of and re- clude: sponsibility or programming is the key to success. Clearly, Ab- original people know what the needs of their communities were *a co-developed program with Indigenous partners; and how those needs could be met. Pathways marked a radical *increased funding; change in HRSDC-Service Canada’s approach to Aboriginal em- ployment and training programming, placing an emphasis on an *greater flexibility for organizations to design programming to all-inclusive, grass-roots style of management. At the time Sad- meet the needs of their people and communities; and dle Lake signed a contribution agreement as a stand alone First *a new distinctions-based strategy that recognizes, respects and Nation with no third parties. reflects Canada’s Indigenous peoples, specifically the First -Na tions, Métis and Inuit, but also addresses urban/non-affiliated In 1996 following a Pathways review process HRSDC-Service service delivery needs. Canada then signed National Framework Agreements (NFAs) with Assembly of First Nations, Metis National Council and the Inuit Tapirisat of Canada. The goal of NFA’s was to develop la- As of July 3, Saddle Lake will independently provide services and bour market programming which addressed the unique needs has signed the new ISET agreement. Some of the highlights of of Aboriginal people. The end result was the Regional Bilateral ISET that Saddle Lake is looking forward to is more individualized Agreement (RBA), a 3-year agreement model. support for employment and training clients and funds not used in the fiscal year can be carried over or used for more program- The Aboriginal Human Resources Development Agreements ming. (AHRDAs) are the key pillar of a broader Aboriginal Human Resources Development Strategy. The AHRDAs replaced the The ISET agreement provides Saddle Lake with the following Regional Bilateral Agreements that were in effect until March funds for the next two years. 1999, and through which control and responsibility for the de- 2019/2020 sign and delivery of labour market programs had been devolved ISETS - $1,218, 962 directly to local Aboriginal organizations. EI - $508, 696 CRF - $318,865 The Aboriginal Human Resources Development Strategy was built on the relationships between Human Resources Develop- 2020/2021 ment Canada (HRDC) and the five national Aboriginal organi- ISETS -$1,101,972 zations (the Assembly of First Nations, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, EI - $457,243.00 Métis National Council, Congress of Aboriginal Peoples and the CRF - $318,865 Native Women’s Association of Canada) . National Accords be- 16 tween HRDC and these groups establish the protocol and pro- “Mamawokamatowak” continued from page 9... have over 600,000 km, and it obviously costs more to keep them *If in our future we were to have paved roads and driveways to running and maintained. In the past when we had capital dollars the tank that would cut down on maintenance and break downs. (SL has no capital dollars for over 5 years now), we were able to *If we had new trucks when they mile out, less money spent on replace trucks and vehicles. repairs. *Calls for water delivery come in all night long from 1am, 2am *Band members that were understanding and supportive to the right up until the morning. It would be helpful if our people called community (some are very, verbally abusive). We can only deliv- at reasonable hours er from 8 to 4:30, you may have to wait until the next day if you *Another challenge is the dogs, some have guard dogs who are run out after hours. It would be beneficial if everyone kept an very aggressive, we have had instances where our drivers have emergency supply of water jugs not only for situations like this been bitten on the legs and arms. In those cases, I have had to in- but for all emergencies. struct our drivers to refrain from pouring water until the people *Band members can monitor their water level and conserve ac- have tied up their dogs. cordingly until delivery and they need to keep water jugs handy *Cell coverage is not sufficient, we would need the service pro- at all times. viders to expand on towers, although our land base would make *Band members who would get Class 1 or Class 3 w/air and live it difficult since our terrain is not flat which is the best for both a healthy lifestyle (can be difficult to find). Its important to have cell and internet signal. It would probably require several towers. drivers who are alert and healthy, it can be a safety concern for People without cell phones still manage to contact us via text, everyone. It is a real barrier. messages, or they stop in. *Funding to support training so that we could bring up our lev- el of service by giving us the skill to assist more, especially with SUCCESSES EMS. *Some of our successes as a nation, because it takes everyone to *Pay that would keep our drivers here as many trainees when be involved, have been the building of new bays that were added completing, leave to work with outside companies for higher pay on to the current public works building, we went from 3 bays rates, we are always training and have a high staff turnover. to 8 and we now can house the water trucks in heated bays. In *More community members to volunteer for the Fire Depart- the past when it was 30 or 40 below, we would have to keep the ment to help us so that we can have a break especially during trucks running and we were always concerned about our lines large fires. Funds to be able to provide training for volunteers. and the water freezing. *More funding for our drivers, so that they can take a break (no *The new fire hall and of course our new fire truck. vacations, holidays or sick time), to avoid burn out. *A huge fire that threatened our townsite this year, our fire fight- *Have a separate Emergency Services group that works with the ers saved 4 homes. RCMP, Fire Department and all other relevant departments. *Purchased a Breathing Air Compression, w can now fill our own *A Fire Department that would have a level of pay equivalent to tanks and have up to 45 minutes per tank. In the past we had to other fire fighters, with enough funding to train and then hire pay St. Paul/Vilna $100/tank which had only 25 minutes of air. around the clock firefighters who live at the fire station. *More funding to promote and pay the staff, some of our crew WHY FUNDRAISING? wear many hats but are paid for just the water truck driving. We *It has been 5 years since Saddle Lake could participate in the are on stand by 24/7 for all fire and emergencies. Fire Fighting competition due to funding constraints, our Fire *Funding and the time to do Fire Smart – House Assessments. fighters would like to participate. *A Saddle Lake Housing Map system that would not have dupli- *Need ongoing and consistent training for structural and emer- cate numbers. RCMP, ambulance and other essential services gency response. need this to have a more accurate way of locating homes in times *Our communication system is still housed at the old facility; it of emergency. We know the homes but these services have staff cannot be moved it is so old. A new tower for the new fire hall is changes every few years. going to cost $45,000.00. *Proper equipment to fight fire for wild land. *New equipment and upgrades is always needed, especially if it Thank you to Public Works and the Water Delivery/Emergency/ is regulatory. Fire Services staff and volunteers. You are all truly appreciated for your contributions to a safer community. And special thanks QUESTION TO SONNY to Sonny! What can we as a community do to support this service?

17 Saddle Lake Cree Nation POW WOW

June 21-23 2019

18 Onchaminahos Jasper Trip

Onchaminhos’ year end knowledge transfer field trip was one for the ages! the grades 4 and 5 all geared up for four days of camping and teachings in the amazing Rocky Mountains. After arriving at the campsite, just minutes from the town of Jasper, everyone got together to build two tipi’s. The students enjoyed great campfire meals morning till night. It was a great atmosphere, as students were able to learn about medicines and animals. They hiked and enjoyed some of the planets most beautiful scenery. The group also toured the town of Jasper and relished the towns touristy quirkyness. Other events include the grand ride up the famous skytram (were the students nervous? YES! Did they make it all the way up? Yes!). And of course any trip to the mountains must include a dip in the hot springs. It was an experience of a lifetime, one that everyone who went will remeber. Wonderful job staff and students and all supervisors and parents.

19 Check out the new website at saddlelakecreenation.ca

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