Newsletter of the Haida Nation November 2011

2011 KIDS COL- WORKING HOUSE OF LABORATING ON-ISLAND – ASSEMBLY pg 12 Ali Pearson REPORT pg 16 pg 5 HAIDA LAAS Newsletter of the Haida Nation November 2011 Photo: Nick Reynolds Cooper Wilson, Danny Bellis, Jim Stafford, Lynn Hughan, Tysen Husband, Nick Reinhardt and Scott Hornidge in the forest. See the story ABOUT SEEING: the land, page 14.

General Vote regarding the NaiKun question – Advance Poll, December 3; Regular Poll, December 10 Haida Laas - Newsletter of the Haida Nation November 2011 Photo – Jack Litrell Taan Forest Now FSC Certified Taan Forest now has Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification for all of its forestry and harvesting operations on Haida Gwaii. FSC certification assures csutomers that Taan Forest products come from sustainably managed sources. HAIDA LAAS The areas covered under this certification NEWSLETTER of the HAIDA NATION include Tree Farm License 60, and the published by the Haida Woodlands Tenure on Moresby and Council of the Haida Nation Graham Islands, representing a total area of 358,100 hectares with an annual harvest of Photo - Sandra Greene Managing Editor 520,000m3. Simon Davies “Change starts with us and the way we Business Administrator Amanda Reid-Stevens approach forestry,” said Guujaaw, President of the Haida Nation. “We know that we can Writers Ihldiinii, Alfred Davidson Sr.; Dayaang, Donald Bell; and Giteewans, Vern Brown, at the 2011 House of Assembly. Florence Lockyer - Old Massett maintain our culture, respect nature, and still See page 5 for the report on the HoA. Valine Crist - Writer Researcher derive a livelihood from the forests.” Bob Brash, President of Taan Forest, said NaiKun: Notice of General Web that the company is on the leading edge of Laughing Sea Design (Mare Levesque) Vote sustainable harvesting and forestry practices Citizens of the Haida Nation will be going [email protected] and these practices meet the stringent to the polls December 3 and December 10 p.250.559.8755 objectives of the Haida Gwaii Strategic to decide whether HaiCo will enter into a Land Use Agreement. business partnership with NaiKun Wind Council of the Haida Nation “This FSC Certification is a big step Energy Group Inc. Administrator Box 589, Old Massett forward for [the company]. We can now See page 4 for full details. Haida Gwaii leverage some of the world’s best tree V0T 1M0 growing lands and wood products together p.250.626.5252 with FSC certification to provide our f.250.626.3403 Haida Citizenship Form 1.888.638.7778 customers with the assurance that their The new Haida Citizenship form is available [email protected] products come from sustainably managed from the Old Massett or Skidegate offices, sources,” said Brash. and on-line at < haidanation.ca >. The Council of the Haida Nation Taan Forest achieved FSC certification New CEO Joins HaiCo information provided on the form will be used President in just 11 months, and Krista West, Forest to determine eligibility to be registered as a Box 98, Queen Charlotte Dr. Roslyn Kunin, Chair of the Board Management Coordinator at the Rainforest Haida citizen, to develop the Haida Nation Haida Gwaii Iljuuwass, Reynold Russ of Directors of HaiCo, announced the Alliance Program, said this shows the forestry Voters List, and for Haida Nation heritage V0T 1S0 appointment of Kevin Ainsworth as the p.250.559.4468 1930 – 2011 community in BC and Canada that FSC purposes. In collecting this information, the company’s first Chief Executive Officer f.250.559.8951 certification is within practical reach. Council of the Haida Nation is committed Iljuuwass, Chief of Old Massett was born in 1930 at K’iis Gwaay, effective December 1. Mr. Ainsworth will 1.877.559.4468 The Rainforest Alliance SmartWood to protecting your personal information and [email protected] Langara Island and passed away, Sunday, November 13, 2011. Iljuuwass also become a member of the Board. Program oversees the FSC certification respecting your privacy. took his chieftainship in 1984, following Gaalaa, Oliver Adams. process. • “We are very pleased to have Mr NOVEMBER 2011 Ainsworth with HaiCo as his key strengths www.haidanation.ca Iljuuwass is survived by wife, June (nee Williams); daughters, Sheila in business and finance, a strong background Skidegate: Election Nomi- and Marlene; sons, Marshall, Mitchell, Ron, Chris, Dwight, Irvin and DID YOU KNOW? in the forest sector, and involvement in bio- Craig; and adopted daughters, (Dosie) Hans and Nancy Wilson. Did you know that energy, will lead our company in achieving nations and Notice of Vote The election Nomination Meeting for the haidanation.ca He is predeceased by sons, Herb and Clayton. approximately 62% of success in many areas,” said Dr. Kunin. Skidegate Band Council will be held on program reports : haida laas the students in School Mr. Ainsworth has an MBA in marketing Wednesday, January 4, 2012. links : diplomacy : agreements District #50 are and finance, as well as a forestry degree. Mr government : working groups aboriginal. Ainsworth comes to HaiCo with 22 years of The Skidegate Band Council election will be - it’s all good - business experience. • held on Wednesday, February 15, 2012.

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2011 House of Assembly Report Photo - Haida Laas

Thasi, Ken Edgars, addresses HaiCo Chair, Dr Roslyn Kunin, and Director Reg Davidson at the House of Assembly held this year, October 11 - 14, in Skidegate.

he annual House of Assembly, held in the culture—has meant sacrifices for many ensure good levels of service in health and Skidegate this year, reflected the state people, he believes the Nation made the educational opportunities to give our people Tand attitude of the Nation in 2011. right choice. Guujaaw met with Clarence a better life.” “It will also bring the Nation There was continued support from citizens to Louie of the Osoyoos people recently. The into a stronger position,” he said. “This is not move forward on the Nation’s path, but not Osoyoos people have been very successful imaginary but real.” without close scrutiny of how that is being economically with more than ten Band- In attendance this year was HaiCo, done and a thorough discussion of how to do owned businesses, including a golf course, a represented by Board Chair, Dr Rosyln things better. And of course, as at any House winery and a daycare. But Mr Louie said that Kunin, and Board member, Reg Davidson. of Assembly, there was an expectation of even with their flourishing economy, they are Dr Kunin presented a Draft Strategic Plan concise answers to tough questions put to now faced with the very difficult challenge of 2011-2016 outlining HaiCo’s principles and CHN reps and the reps of HaiCo’s fledgling recovering their culture. values, and how HaiCo will measure their businesses. With the CHN’s economic strategy in full performance. The four days of meetings began with play, which includes the recent acquisition The Strategic Plan also details what the Guujaaw, President of the Haida Nation, of Tlell River House, West Coast Fishing board would like to accomplish between reporting on the activities of the Council Resorts and the future sale of carbon credits, now and 2016. Included in the 25 succinct of the Haida Nation’s Executive. The Guujaaw says that the Nation is moving goals are succession planning and mentorship President spoke of the political changes that toward an economic independence that “we at all levels of Haico and the subsidiary have occurred over the last 30 years and have not seen for 100 years”. businesses; wide recognition of, and respect said that although the route the Nation has “It is the positive outcome of this 2011 HoA - continued page 6 taken—one of protecting and maintaining economic initiative,” said Guujaaw, “ that will

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2011 HoA Report – the corporation 2011 HoA Report – the committees

2011 HoA - from page 5 vacant with the resignation of Patrick for, the quality of HaiCo’s products; and McGuire. See page 3 for HaiCo CEO update. the generation of significant profits for the Taan Forest businesses and Haida treasury. The plan was The big news from Taan Forest is the adopted in-principle with the exception of a the 2-year negotiation and purchase of

chart showing the CHN/HaiCo governance Photo - Haida Laas Photo - Haida Laas TFL 60 from Western Forest Products for and operating structure. The chart will be approximately $12 million. WFP acquired the redrawn to reflect the structure adopted license in 2006 from Brascan. The purchase previously by the House. gives Taan access to about 136,000 hectares HaiCo also tabled for examination the of forestland. Taan’s target this year is to log Letter of Expectations. This foundation 220–250,000 cubic metres. document describes the working relationship The logging of that land is regulated by the between the CHN and the Nation’s business Haida Gwaii Strategic Land Use Agreement, arm, HaiCo. The letter spells out the CHN’s which sets out rules that also protect Haida strategic involvement, its governmental Photo - Haida Laas Photo - Haida Laas values in the forest. role, the accountability of the corporation, “The new management regime will the corporation’s reporting procedures, and balance ecological, cultural, and social the ways in which the CHN will support the matters while ensuring long term success of corporation. The Letter of Expectations was the business,” said Guujaaw. adopted by the House. There are about 120 people working for Members of the public were expecting to contractors on-Island, and of those, 41% are see the Managing Director of HaiCo and the Haida. President of Taan Forest in the House to field questions from the floor, but in their stead, Since the HoA, Taan Forest has received Board Chair, Dr Kunin, and Director, Mr Forest Stewardship Certification on all its Davidson, responded to detailed questions holdings – see page 3 for the update. as they could. A resolution was passed,

requesting the presence of the Managing West Coast Resorts Photo - Haida Laas Director of HaiCo and the President of Taan Forest at the 2012 House of Assembly. HaiCo now owns West Coast Resorts and

Photo - Captain Gold this year the company provided a report to Photo - On many people’s minds were what the House of Assembly. WCR was started

Haida Laas plans HaiCo has to mentor, train and hire in 1995 and today is the largest destination citizens for positions within HaiCo and its sportfishing-lodge business in BC. Of the five lodges, three operate in First Top left, l-r: CHN Skidegate staff, Leticia Hill and Kim subsidiaries, such as Taan Forest and West Nations along the coast, all of which have Robinson. Top right, l-r: Gaahlaay, Lonnie Young and Coast Resorts. Subsequent to that discussion, The two lodges that operate out of Gidansda, Percy Williams at the HoA. Bottom: Paul Englefield Bay and Hippa Island during employment agreements with West Coast Pearson questioning HaiCo reps about their Strategic HaiCo was asked to provide a human Resorts. These agreements will be honoured, Plan. Joanne Collinson is behind Mr Pearson. resources strategy that spells out the types the fishing season will be wintering this year in Alliford Bay. Upon startup to next Guujaaw said. One speaker at the HoA was of jobs the corporation sees having to fill Phase 2, beginning this fall, addresses other year’s season, the report said, the lodges will looking for a statement that details how in the future, and the schooling and skill- electricity, heating and transportation needs. be prepared for the season using as many HaiCo intends to operate in those Nations’ sets required for those positions. A human The final plan will identify technologies products and services available from on- territories. Ms Kunin said the details will be resources strategy would be of benefit to that can support the Islands’ electrical Island suppliers as possible. spelled out in a business plan that will be Photo - Captain Gold both Band Councils when allocating funding forthcoming. requirements, with the “overall goal of being During the winter, WCR has 4 staff for their post-secondary school education 100% fossil-fuel free, with as little carbon looking after the floating facilities and 16 program. Also part of this discussion was emission as possible, and the least impact to at head office in Richmond. The number of an exploration of ways to move Haidas ENERGY COMMITTEE the lands and water.” employees working all five lodges grows into management positions of the HaiCo Chair of the Energy Committee, John The question of going into business with Top l-r: Daphne White asking questions of the CHN to about 122 during the fishing season. The businesses. Yeltatzie, said that the National Research NaiKun Wind Inc. is going to a General Executive. Sonia Rice looking for clarification regard- company says that bookings for 2012 are ing the HaiCo strategic plan. Middle left: Netta Mills. The HaiCo Board receives no Council project, which is looking at the Vote on December 10 with an advance poll strong and they expect the Sandspit Inn, also Middle right: Roy Collison taking notes. Bottom l-r: compensation and is made up of Dr. Roslyn Islands’ energy needs, is on track. Phase 1, scheduled for December 3. A General Vote Guujaaw, President of the Haida Nation; April Churchill, a property of WCR, to experience an increase Kunin and Directors Reg Davidson, Kelly which looks at fossil-fuel free options for the 2011 HoA - continued page 8 Vice-president of the Haida Nation; Allan Davidson, CHN in traffic. Vancouver Rep; Shawn Cowpar, CHN Skidegate Rep. Russ, and Bill Dumont. There is one seat northern electrical grid, is near completion.

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2011 HoA Report – the committees Justice Lambert speaking at the HoA 2011 HoA - from page 7 and at haidanation.ca. fishing on Haida Gwaii”. The members of the Energy Committee In other news, CHN has acquired interim – Dutch proverb requires 50% + 1 of the votes cast to pass. Lies travel fast, but Truth catches up at last are John Yeltatzie, Chair; Frank Parnell; Lisa access to halibut quota, 2 halibut tabs, some The Energy Committee also reported, White; and Robert Williams. Vince Collison sable fish quota and an Area “A” crab license. he now-retired Justice Douglas Lambert was invited by the for the record, that they had completed the is the staff support. The exercise to develop a new food fish Council of the Haida Nation to speak at the 2011 House of tasks set by a House of Assembly resolution. policy is moving forward with 89 interviews TAssembly. His wide-ranging and detailed speech touched on The three action items required by the having taken place. Community members the beginnings of aboriginal law, the conceptual shift from which resolution were to complete an environmental HERITAGE and NATURAL identified their values, needs and priorities, today’s law has evolved, and the contemporary interpretation of assessment, present the business arrangement RESOURCES COMMITTEE and this information will be used to help that law – specifically in relation to the Haida title case. In Canada, to the Haida people, and make arrangements Section 35 of the Constitution Act of 1982 protects existing The Heritage and Natural Resources inform the writing of the new policy. Public for holding a general vote regarding going Aboriginal and Treaty Rights, and, since 1982, the process of Committee reviews land-use tenure and meetings to review the communities’ thoughts into business with NaiKun Wind Energy reconciling the rights of First Nations with Canada has gone to permit requests for the Council of the and suggestions are to be held early in the Group Inc. court countless times. Haida Nation and was established under the new year. In addition to the directives in the In 1978, Justice Lambert was appointed to the BC Court of Kunst’aa Guu – Kunst’aayah Reconciliation Razor Clams Appeal. There, he wrote over 2,000 decisions, which included resolution, an independent review of the Protocol. Between July and September of Due to stormy weather, diggers haven’t been the Meares Island case in 1986, the Sparrow, Van Der Peet, and environmental assessment and business 2011 the committee reviewed 24 files, which out on the beach digging clams as much as in Delgamuukw cases, and the Haida Nation’s 2002 TFL 39 case. model was commissioned by the CHN. The included applications for cut permits, leases, past years. Of the 365,000 lbs quota for 2011, He retired from the bench in 2005, and since then has specialized review, conducted by Dr Thomas Gunton at and licenses of occupation, among others. Simon Fraser University, was distributed to there were still 110,000 pounds available for in aboriginal law; he also worked with the Council of the Haida The Solutions Table reviews the households and is available at CHN offices digging. Nation’s Legal Team. Justice Lambert began practicing law in 1959 applications and provides information to the Russ Jones and Godfrey Williams were and his storied career has left a legacy of legal decisions that has provincial and CHN Decision-makers. Len elected as spawn-on-kelp representatives seen advances in aboriginal law – decisions that favour aboriginal Munt is the Decision-maker for the province, to the Integrated Herring-Harvest Planning people. While sitting on the BC Court of Appeal, Justice Lambert and the Heritage and Natural Resources Committee. The IHHPC is a Fisheries and ruled in favour of the Haida Nation in the Weyerhaeuser Case. Committee, with the CHN Vice-president Oceans Canada process established for cross- Justice Lambert began his presentation to the HoA by speaking being the signatory, is the Decision-maker for sectoral communication and advice on issues about the European world-view pre-1585. At that time it was the CHN. related to herring fisheries in the Pacific assumed that anyone could row ashore in a “new” land, plant a

Once an application is made, there are Photo - Region. flag, and claim the territory, disregarding the people who already two streams or scenarios followed: Scenario

At a meeting this past September, DFO occupied the land. But that way of thinking was changed in 1585 Haida Laas 1, with a 1-14 day turnaround, processes provided updates on the status of herring by Grotius, a Dutch lawyer who argued that any power coming in applications considered to be of lower risk stocks and preliminary discussions about to acquire sovereignty, either by military conquest or occupation such as a culvert replacement; Scenario 2 Gifts Exchanged the 2012 herring fishery were held. A draft of the land in any other way, had no effect on people who were The Honourable Justice Douglas Lambert speaking at the House of Assembly. While sit- considers applications that may require a Following the standing ovation given to herring management plan was also discussed originally there, on their land ownership system, or on their laws ting on the BC Court of Appeal, Justice Lambert ruled in favour of the Haida Nation more complicated analysis, such as a License in the Weyerhaeuser Case. Justice Lambert for his talk at the House at the IHHPC October meeting. and customs – those things, he maintained, remain the same. to Cut. This process aims to have a decision of Assembly, gifts were exchanged. That conceptual shift established the root of aboriginal law. But to recognize the concepts of aboriginal title, which were accepted made within 1-60 days. Members of the Haida Fisheries Justice Lambert presented the Haida Committee are Robert Davis, Chair; Shawn it took almost 200 years for the idea to take hold: it was written in 1846. That is the date when Crown Sovereignty began in British The Heritage and Natural Resources Nation with a quaich, which is a shallow Cowpar; Trevor Russ; Ken Rea; and Godfrey into the Royal Proclamation of 1763. Since then, the development Columbia and, as a consequence, the date when the nature, scope Committee membership is Percy Crosby, two-handled bowl. This type of bowl was Williams. and interpretation of aboriginal law have been argued by lawyers, and content of aboriginal title crystallized in British Columbia. Chair (CHN Skidegate); Robert Davis used, traditionally, to celebrate a bond and built-upon by court decisions. Courts are supposed to reflect Today, the Crown still argues that Aboriginal Title resides only (CHN Old Massett); Allan Davidson (CHN between two clans. Today, it is also used community values, Justice Lambert said. Unfortunately, if a in the village sites. Lambert sees this interpretation of the law as Vancouver Rep); Godfrey Williams (SBC); to toast friends and family. The word OTHER REPORTS community has a strong bias or prejudice, then these values also a strategy to try and cut down the scope of what aboriginal title and Ron Brown Jr. (OMVC). quaich originates from the Gaelic word, Verbal reports were also provided to the influence court decisions. is and all that it can encompass. He said that this argument does The Solutions Table’s Co-chairs are Colin cuach, meaning “shallow cup”. House of Assembly by Secretariat of the Justice Lambert said that if we reflected on how people were not reflect, in his opinion, the current state of the law, nor where Richardson and Ricardo Toledo. On behalf of the Nation, Guujaaw Haida Nation; Gwaii Trust; the Haida thinking about aboriginal law 100 years ago, then those insights Aboriginal Title comes from, nor how it is evolving. With 50 presented Justice Lambert and his wife, Child and Family Services Society; could bring us to a better understanding of how we got into the years of legal experience in arguing cases and judging them, Barbara, with a print depicting an oyster HAIDA FISHERIES COMMITTEE Communications Committee; Haida Gwaii current predicament and interpretation of what aboriginal law is Justice Lambert, in effect said that the Crown’s approach has little catcher, by Robert Davidson. Mrs In fisheries news, committee Chair, Robert Cultural Wood Access Permit; Haida Marine today. to do with upholding the ‘Honour of the Crown’ and, in fact, is an Lambert was also presented a silver ring, Davis, reported that letters have been sent to Use Planning; Policy Committee; Solutions It has been about five hundred years since the European concept impoverished view of the law. with a killer whale design, carved by fishing lodges requesting representatives to Table; and a legal summary by White Raven of aboriginal rights and title was conceived. That is a long time, and Justice Lambert received a standing ovation from the House James Sawyer. sit with the Committee, this fall, to “discuss Law. Those reports, in written form, are things change, but there is still resistance on the part of the Crown prior to, and following, his talk. concerns and initiatives regarding recreational available to citizens, at either CHN office.

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2011 HoA Report - the resolutions Coastal First Nations A Richness of Place Keystone XL Decision SHIP unveils Gwaii Haanas maps with Haida place names Shows Risk of Tar

Photo - Captain Gold Sands Project The Coastal First Nations, an alliance of 10 First Nations, are reaffirming their opposition

Tyson Brown to the Enbridge Gateway pipeline in the Considering the options: Front l-r - Ernie Gladstone, wake of last week’s announcement that the Dwayne Alsop, Natalie Fournier and Nadine Wilson. Keystone XL pipeline will be delayed, says Back l-r: Barb Wilson, Betty Richardson, Isabel Brillon, CFN executive director Art Sterritt. Netta Mills and unknown. The Language of Sterritt says CFN, which represents 20,000 members and whose traditional Giving Things Due Consideration or Love territory extends from the Alaskan border to Being There to Resolve Issues A small group of language lovers gathered Rivers Inlet, says the delay in the Keystone the evening of Thursday, October 20th, at project reaffirms their reasons for opposing ay four of the House of Assembly was Resolutions Committee was well received the Haida Gwaii Museum, to close That Enbridge’s proposed Gateway pipeline. the day resolutions were put forward and adopted. The committee is selected by Which Makes Us Haida, an exhibition of “The U.S. government is concerned for consideration by the House. This nomination from the floor at each HoA and, D photographs by Farah Nosh documenting about the level of risk posed by crude oil open process of considering resolutions, some as such, each new committee has different many of the Nation’s fluent Haida speakers. This map section illustrates the type and density of the Haida place names pipelines on water sources necessary for of which will direct the CHN’s next year of ways of running the process. This resolution in Gwaii Haanas. Museum Director, Nathalie Macfarlane, sustenance and agriculture, and we oppose work, is interesting, often lively, and, at times, asks the Policy Committee to standardize that opened the evening with an overview of n Friday, October 28, elders from SHIP A number of people spoke about the [the proposed] Gateway [project] for the heated. Debate ranges far and wide and calls procedure and process. the exhibition and acknowledgment of the (Skidegate Haida Immersion Program), importance of the project and acknowledged same reasons.” on the knowledge, experience and skills of The Gwaii Trust was mentioned in two not only the importance of the maps but the speakers who participated in the exhibition OKevin Borserio (SHIP) and Barbara “We will do everything in our power citizens to give fair consideration to each resolutions that passed—one giving direction vast amount of work required to collect and and book. Co-curator Jusquan Amanda Wilson (Gwaii Haanas) welcomed over 75 to protect our coast from Enbridge’s risky resolution. to programming for Haida language and the document the words and phrases. Bedard expressed thanks to the speakers for people to an evening celebration marking the pipeline and tanker proposal. It’s a future This year, 18 resolutions were put on the other directing GT reps to consider education the inspiration she received from them while completion of the Gwaii Haanas Place Names “The richness of those names,” said Coastal First Nations cannot imagine. It’s a floor. Of those, two were tabled, as in one and capacity building as priorities in GT working on the projects. Mapping Project. Guujaaw, President of the Haida Nation, future we won’t allow to become a reality,” instance, the mover of the resolution was programming. Ms Bedard travelled from Gaaw with SHIP Co-ordinator, Kevin Borserio, “enhance that beautiful place.” says Sterritt. not present to speak to it, and in the second The Skidegate Youth Council came singers Carrie Carty, Savannah Pelletier, reminded the gathering that the 6 maps The maps are available for viewing at the Last year, the Coastal First Nations issued instance, the resolution was not seconded. prepared and moved three resolutions at the Tiffany Vanderhoop, and Vern Williams showcase twelve years of group effort in Skidegate Haida Immersion Program. a declaration banning tankers from carrying Three resolutions were referred to the Policy HoA, two of which were adopted. Their Jr, who were supported by young Brian bringing this dream to reality. “It began with tar sands crude oil through First Nations’ Committee— two for possible constitutional request to be involved in capacity building Vanderhoop and Nora-Jane Edenshaw. Solomon Wilson,” Mr Borserio said. “He traditional lands and waters – a ban they amendments, and one to develop policy— and training, and to work with Leslie Together, they closed the exhibition with four had the wisdom to record hundreds of Haida Haawa from SHIP have vowed to defend “by whatever means two resolutions were defeated and the Brown, the new HaiCo Skills Development The Elders of the Skidegate Haida Immersion songs – the final being I Love Haida Gwaii, place names while he was still with us – these necessary”. “Our people are fishing people,” remaining 11 were passed. Coordinator, was passed, as was a resolution Program would like to thank each and every composed by Mr Williams. [names] were our starting place.” Sterritt added, “We thrive, despite high What citizens expect of HaiCo produced supporting the development of a “strategy person who helped make the Gwaii Haanas Although the exhibition is closing on Diane Brown recited the names of elders unemployment, because we have access to a lot of discussion. HaiCo’s Strategic Plan: relating to sport-fishing catch and release Mapping Celebration Dinner such a great Haida Gwaii, Ms Macfarlane said there who had participated in the project but have traditional foods like wild salmon, halibut 2011-2016 was passed with the qualification methods resulting in more accurate reporting success. are plans for the show to travel to other now passed on, and reflected, “Over the years and shellfish. Why would we allow a pipeline that the structural chart be corrected to reflect methodologies”. Haawa to Gladys Irene, Jerry, and Alvin institutions in Canada. there have been many, many people involved that would destroy our most important food the previously adopted structure. Another for the fabulous seafood meal. The Youth Council also “endorsed the in this project – and that is good because not sources?” resolution, requesting that HaiCo’s Board and ongoing reliance on empirical methods And special haawa’s to the following any one of us could have done this alone.” The Coastal First Nations are joined by Senior Management attend the HoA to field of research and negotiation calling for the organizations for supporting the Elders, over DID YOU KNOW? Five of the large-format maps depict the First Nations Summit, the Union of BC questions, was carried as was a resolution implementation of conservation-based Did you know that in 2007, using many years, in the creation of these maps different areas of Gwaii Haanas and include Indian Chiefs, the Nuu-chuh-nuulth Tribal directing CHN to participate in establishing approaches to sport-fishing operations, two-way communications technolo- that celebrate and honour the Haida place 1,296 Haida place names for such things Council, the Nanwakolas Council and 60 the rates of pay for senior management of resulting in the reduction of harmful gy such as cell phones, humankind names of the Haida People and Nation: Gwaii as coastal features, villages, islands and other Indigenous Nations extending along the HaiCo and its subsidiaries. pollutants and the sustainability of the shared 65 exabytes of information Haanas/Parks Canada; Council of the Haida campsites. Map 6, entitled Ocean and Way Fraser River watershed who have formally A housekeeping resolution to ensure the fishery”. through telecommunications — the of Life, provides information – collected and Nation; Skidegate Band Council; School equivalent of every person in the banned the proposed Enbridge Gateway timely delivery of documents that require A full list of the resolutions is available at documented by the Haida Oceans Technical District No. 50; and White Raven Law world communicating the contents pipeline. review by citizens, before consideration by either CHN office. Team and SHIP – related to the harvesting of Corporation. of six newspapers every day. the House, was carried. As well, a resolution marine resources. yahguudang dang.ad to design detailed procedures for the Science Daily, Feb. 11, 2011 SHIP

10 11 Haida Laas - Newsletter of the Haida Nation November 2011

Collaborating Kids Old pole and young spirits create new energy

by Valine Crist nyone who was lucky enough to see their ideal space. Patricia met with Harmony the youth centre. Another partnership between the Raven pole while it was standing Williams, Youth Coordinator for Old Massett, the Haida Health Center and the Economic Ain Jasper, Alberta, saw that the pole to discuss the project’s potential and the Development Office has already resulted in stood proudly and with presence — but it also possibility of combining a few uses for the the purchase of a bus that will be used to carry carried the wear and tear of over a century’s building. Ms. Moore presented Ms Williams visitors around to the poles. exposure to the elements. with a conceptual drawing of the building. “We want to make sure that all the The fragile pole arrived back in Old Ms. Williams took the idea to the teens to see summer students are trained in running the Massett on June 21, 2010 and, since then, what they thought, and to ask: If the project tours, so they learn the different crests and the Old Massett Economic Development were to go ahead, what would you like to see stories behind the poles,” Ms Moore said. Office has been working with funders and in the space? “It’ll be a great way to see continuity in

stakeholders to ensure that the teaching about our culture and Photo: Patricia Moore pole is protected from weather and the poles in our community. For taken care of. example, the two poles standing In an interesting turn of events, in front of the Band Office the Raven pole has energized a tell one story and I think it’s project that defines community important for us to share that.” development in a whole new way. As the plan to house The process began with the the Raven pole in a simple idea of building a modest structure building evolved, Ms Moore Laying the foundations of the new youth centre. L-R: Claude Thompson, Cyril Falconbridge, Amos Williams, next to the fire hall on Raven Photo: Patricia Moore and the team at the Economic Lawrence Ouchan, Casey Russ and, in front, the truck driver’s assistant. Avenue, to house and protect Development Office had to the pole. Parks Canada agreed find more funding before to provide financial support for construction could start, and this start, but, soon after, Patricia organizations did step up. In addition to Parks Canada, they Moore, Economic Development Early days: Framing almost done – the finished building will be about 2,400 sq ft. Planner and recent graduate of the include Coast Sustainability Project Management Certificate Program After much discussion, the youth handed Trust, Gwaii Trust, the Prince George at Royal Roads University, started thinking over their wish list and it was decided that the Nechako Aboriginal Employment and about and dreaming of ways to expand the building would house the Raven pole, have a Training Association, and of course the Old project and collaborate with local groups to mini-museum to hold objects, and provide a Massett Village Council. turn this beginning into something more. much-needed space for youth to gather. Construction of the 2,400 square-foot “We needed something functional that In the space the youth wanted a wood building began in September and will be would house the Raven pole, but we also stove – so they would know the meaning of completed before the end of the year. The wanted to incorporate a sustainability plan for hard work, and a fish processing area – so Old Massett Economic Development Office the building,” Ms Moore said. “We thought they could learn how to prepare their harvest. donated Ms Moore’s time and expertise, and about the building also housing a museum, They also wanted to be close to, and be able the Capital Works Department helped by or a gallery, or a tourism information center, to learn from the elders. “It was clear that this clearing the lot and doing the plumbing. Also which are facilities that we need in the idea was going to be a perfect fit for all us,” involved in the construction is the crew from community.” But, Ms Moore also knew the Ms Moore recalls. a carpentry program that the Old Massett building had to pay for itself; would need a The focal point of the facility will be Economic Development department initiated Photo:Crist, Valine reliable group to run it; and had to have buy- the Raven pole and the youth will be the nearly four years ago. in from the community. custodians of this cultural treasure. The Stay tuned – this collaboration promises Very soon, she was working with Carrie building will also include room for students to give new meaning to community Samuels, Band Administrator, and the pieces to study, a recording studio, and a gallery for development. started to come together. Harmony Williams the young and apprenticing artists. Longer- Ms Moore would like to acknowledge the Old Massett Haida Laas and the Old Massett Youth group were in term goals include youth-managed tours of Repatriation Committee and the CHN for starting this Carpenter Supervisor, Cyril Falconbridge, is seen in the entrance of the new youth centre at Old Massett. search of a home and had begun designing Old Massett poles, which will operate from process with the return of the Raven pole. The trailer that transported the Raven pole from Alberta and currently houses it, sits in front of the fire hall.

12 13 Haida Laas - Newsletter of the Haida Nation November 2011

About Seeing: the land

The days of one industry moving onto the Resources Department, says that Haida everyone,” Mr Reynolds said. “We wanted to Islands and providing jobs for all are long Gwaii is one of the first places that clearly do something that’s a little bit more hands- over. Capacity building is done one job at a understood and incorporated this approach to on and give students a number of ways time! - Bill Beldessi, Manager of the CHN managing the whole forest. in which to succeed. We want the course Heritage and Natural Resources Department. One important set of data that managers to accommodate their individual ways of consider when making decisions about the learning.” or the past 10 years, Haidas have been land is a Cultural Features Survey. Cultural Mr Beldessi also admits that even with working in the forest to identify and F Features are defined as “any Haida traditional the flexible teaching style it’s a tough course protect the cultural values that are critical forest feature, Haida traditional heritage and tough work. “Even some Registered to the Nation. This groundbreaking work feature (heritage features can include villages, Professional Foresters have had trouble has informed and subsequently redefined burial sites, spiritual sites, caves, petroglyphs, meeting the requirements of this training,” he what land-use management, protection, and and canoe runs), or culturally modified tree said. And the requirements are stringent but, planning is today. or monumental cedar”. To conduct a survey even so, 15 people were certified in the 2010 The Land-Use Plan, signed in 2007, of Cultural Features you must be trained Cultural Features training course. protects about half of Haida Gwaii from and certified in the identification of cultural In addition to the Cultural Features logging, and the remaining forestland is now plants, monumental cedars, heritage features, training, this past year has seen a number of subject to ecosystem-based management; and culturally modified trees. The Cultural other opportunities created by the Heritage the decisions about how that land is used are Features Training and Survey Program and Natural Resources Department, including made by the CHN and the province of BC. Photo: Nick Reynolds accomplishes this through courses and a Mentorship Program and a summer Under ecosystem-based management, fieldwork developed by the CHN. youth work placement program. Both everything – from birds, to bears, to plants - Nick Reynolds, Stewardship Planning programs gave solid hands-on experience is considered. This is a huge change from the Coordinator for the CHN, helped to develop to students interested in many aspects of previous system of management that took the Cultural Features Training and Surveying heritage resource management. In addition to From left: Archaeologist Jim Stafford, Nick Reinhardt, Cooper Wilson, Scott Hornidge and Tysen Husband in the forest 12 kilometres up the Yakoun River. only timber values into account. Bill Beldessi, Program for the Nation. “Exams aren’t for providing field training, the programs have Manager of the CHN’s Heritage and Natural everybody and classroom learning isn’t for the added benefit of a low student-teacher ratio, so that students get the attention they need. CoASt invites the JRP to tour Haida Gwaii Submitted by CoASt Four young Haidas participated in the Enbridge’s Northern Gateway proposal is currently under scrutiny in Canada’s Youth Mentorship Program and part of their environmental review process. The Joint Review Panel is the three-member panel training included study in Cultural Features reviewing all of the information submitted by the public and industry – it includes oral Identification. In addition to study, they and written evidence from intervenors, and oral and written statements from community spent 4-6 weeks in the field with Taan Forest members. and BC Timber Sales gaining hands-on CoASt is actively working in the Islands’ communities to see that Haida Gwaii’s experience. Upon completion of the course, strength and opposition are heard. As of November 8, we received notice that two hearings two of the students were offered full-time will take place on the Islands: one in Masset and the other in Queen Charlotte. Dates will work and one has returned to post-secondary be announced later. school to continue their education. As we all know, we have very unique ecosystems and an amazing lifestyle and in order “This is a real success story!” said Mr for the JRP to make an informed decision (to reject the Northern Gateway proposal, that Beldessi. “We’re really hoping that every time is), we think they need to experience this place first-hand, so we’ve invited them to tour we do a program like this, it will generate its the Islands while they are here. own energy and that, each time, there will be CoASt also plans to help prepare people to make their oral statements at the more students interested.” community hearings. Whether you’re looking for more information about the Northern Mr Reynolds also shares in the excitement, Gateway proposal, or want advice on public speaking, CoASt can help! CoASt members saying, “This is a good way for Haida youth

throughout the Islands will be facilitating gatherings so that everyone is prepared to get up to get out and in to the forest to actively Photo: Nick Reynolds and speak up when the JRP comes to town! manage and protect cultural values and Haida Gwaii CoASt works to maintain the integrity of our coastal ecosystems, resources. These courses are for people communities, and sustainable economies by opposing oil supertankers in the waters interested in pursuing careers in forestry and around Haida Gwaii. it’s a great opportunity to be a part of day-today decision-making in forest management.” Danny Bellis checking around culturally modified trees.

14 15 Haida Laas - Newsletter of the Haida Nation November 2011

WORKING ON-ISLAND – Ali Pearson Number 4 in the series – Bachelor of Commerce program, she had to I went from big-city life, to going down to Skedans with upgrade her math, which set her studies back WORKING ON-ISLAND a bit. “ somebody I’d never met before, to being in a place I’d Today, just short of a degree and enrolled in the Thompson Rivers University, with never been, with no TV or anything! It was total culture ALI PEARSON – A quiet determination goes a long way a specialization in Human Resources, shock but probably one of the better life-changing Ali has continued to take advantage of opportunities that come along, picking the experiences I’ve had. by Valine Crist courses and credits she needs to complete her degree. Most recently, she was a student though a lot of work, was also a big learning” at orientation sessions. The orientation or the past five years, Ali Pearson has of the Haida Gwaii Semester, which was opportunity, she said. sessions cover cultural, historical, and safety been working on her post-secondary offered, this past January, by the Haida After her first summer as a Young Canada information and it was her job to present Feducation in Vancouver while gaining Gwaii Higher Education Society. She, along Works student, Ali worked the following two this information to visitors. Today, Ali is the professional work experiences on-Island. with two other Haidas, took the courses summers in temporary 4-month positions temporary Interpretation Officer with Gwaii After graduating from Moscrop Secondary at Kay Llngagaay in Skidegate, and the as a Visitor Services Attendant. In 2009, Haanas and spent the first month in this School — a French-Immersion school in completion of that program earned Ali nine Ali’s seasonal term was extended and she position preparing for orientations of large Burnaby — Ali returned home and started credits towards her degree through three decided to take a break from her studies for groups of people – in Vancouver and Sidney – working for the Haida Gwaii Watchmen intensive courses: History and Politics of one semester so that she could work with the who were interested in visiting Gwaii Haanas. Program in Skidegate. Resource Management, First Nations Natural External Relations team as an assistant, for She is also preparing interpretive programs Just 17 years old at the time, Ali spent two Resources, and Rainforest Ecology. the establishment of Gwaii Haanas Marine that are relevant and inspiring to visitors. months as a Watchman at K’uuna Llnagaay “What I really liked about the Haida Gwaii Protected Area. During that time, she learned With the quiet determination that and T’aanuu Llnagaay. Raised in the metro- Semester was that it was relevant to me in my a lot from the people she worked with and Ali exhibits, it’s clear that this is just the Vancouver area, this was a huge transition for personal life and in my career, because Haida through attending marine-project team and beginning. Opportunities with Gwaii Haanas the young woman. “I went from big-city life, Gwaii is where I live,” she said. “I found it advisory committee meetings. One of the have influenced her and her partner of 4 to going down to Skedans with somebody I’d to be one of the most valuable educational highlights and more intimidating challenges years, James Bulbrook, to move home never met before, to being in a place I’d never experiences that I’ve had in post-secondary.” required by this position was presenting to permanently. They’re in the process of buying been, with no TV or anything! It was total The connection between Ali’s studies, jobs, over 100 people at the Vancouver Aquarium home and both continue to work for Gwaii culture shock but probably one of the better and her professional interests is clear. “My for the “Stories of Gwaii Haanas” speaker Haanas – James works as a Skilled Labourer life-changing experiences I’ve had,” she said. experience working as a Watchman helped series. – as Ali finishes her degree. When asked if “It was really the first introduction I had to me see that I wanted a career related to Gwaii In 2010, she became a permanent she’ll be looking for a long-term career with Gwaii Haanas. It was so cool to be immersed Haanas,” Ali said. “That experience led to employee at Gwaii Haanas, working as Gwaii Haanas, Ali said, “Yes, of course - I’d in my culture and have the opportunity to me become a manager of the Watchmen a Heritage Presenter. Her duties included definitely like to stay within the organization.” share that with people visiting the villages.” Program and that led me to want an education delivering interpretive programs, such as the Following that summer of cultural in management and a continuing involvement Spirit Lake walk, and meeting with visitors with Gwaii Haanas.” immersion, Ali worked as administrative Photo - assistant for the Haida Gwaii Watchmen Over the last five years, Ali has taken program for one season. From there she Haida Laas on several different jobs at Gwaii Haanas. moved up to a full-time co-manager In 2007, she was hired as a Young Canada STUDY & SCHOLARSHIP position and by the age of 21, she was Works student — YCW is a national program Thompson Rivers University: A Degree at a Distance Ali Pearson said her Haida Gwaii Semester was one of the most valuable experiences she has had in post-secondary education. general manager. Ali said that taking on this that offers students work opportunities — In her experience, Ali says that, “On-line courses are actually more time-consuming than important position at such a young age was Skidegate Band Council and Parks Canada, to Capilano University in North Vancouver which was her first introduction to working classes on campus. You have to be really disciplined to do on-line courses.” Thompson both rewarding and challenging and a great was definitely a great opportunity for me and moved to Burnaby. The first few months directly at the Gwaii Haanas office. This Rivers University offers open learning so students can take one course at a time, on their exposure to the way the program operates. to understand how local governments and were hard and expensive, she recalls. “It was also her first introduction to a formal own schedule, to complete a certificate, diploma, or degree. “Working with the Archipelago systems work,” she said. took an hour and fifteen minutes to commute interview process. She remembers there was a For program information and applications, check out www.tru.ca. Management Board – the governing After six years with the Haida Gwaii from my place to the campus. It was the only three-member interview panel: Gwaii Haanas’ body for Gwaii Haanas, now made up of Watchmen program Ali decided, in 2006, apartment I could afford by myself,” she said. Human Resources Manager, an Interpretation The Haida Gwaii Higher Education Society is a community-based, non-profit representatives of the Council of the Haida it was time to begin her post-secondary At university Ali was interested in learning Coordinator, and a representative from the organization providing university-level learning on Haida Gwaii. Inspired by local Nation and the federal government, the education. She applied and was accepted about business, but in order to get into the Council of the Haida Nation. As part of the communities, people and the surrounding environment, post-secondary students process Ali had to submit a writing sample, participate in immersion programs that help enrich communities and lives on Haida Gwaii. Applicants must be enrolled in a recognized post-secondary institution. The series, WORKING ON-ISLAND, is a collaboration between Haida Laas and Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, answer standard interview questions, and National Marine Area Reserve, and Haida Heritage Site. also prepare a presentation. The process, For more information visit: haidagwaiisemester.com

16 17 Haida Laas - Newsletter of the Haida Nation November 2011

WORKING ON-ISLAND – Sascha Jones

Number 5 in the series – maintaining the eight boats, which range ways,” he said about studying and his career. in size from small life-tenders to a 30-foot It was the mid-1990s when Sascha moved Just Arrived! WORKING ON-ISLAND vessel, Sascha is in charge of all the radios to Nanaimo and enrolled in the Outboard and electronics onboard. Welding, working Technician course. After completing the on trailers, and mechanical-maintenance trips nine-month program, he moved home to CHN T-shirts SASCHA JONES – The ins and outs of marine mechanics into the remote Gwaii Haanas are also within look for work that would count toward his his job description. apprenticeship. As Sascha explained, trade by Valine Crist Sascha says that patience is the most school involves class time (usually 9-10 important thing required when working with months), followed by an apprenticeship of intricate outboard-motor mechanics. “Tons 3-4 years. During the apprenticeship portion, ascha Dean Jones, 36, is a dedicated of patience. You have to take your time and students continue to study in the classroom family man and the only Outboard be very methodical about it,” he says. “You for about a month each year. Technician working for Gwaii Haanas. S need to know your math and physics, and Sascha was fortunate to be able to do Born and raised on Haida Gwaii, he and you have to know English.” Of course, to be his apprenticeship on Haida Gwaii through partner, Debi Laughlin, live in Skidegate with an outboard mechanic, you also need to have an arrangement with Parks Canada and a their two sons, Michael Carver, 7, and Teemo problem-solving skills and a great memory. mentor at Rocky’s Equipment Sales in Queen Cooper, 5. Sascha’s oldest son, Schon, from a Charlotte; he completed his class time at the previous relationship, lives with his mother in When asked why he looked to Gwaii British Columbia Institute of Technology Old Massett. Haanas for work, Sascha said, “At the time, it was the security of a steady job and knowing (BCIT), spending one month in each of his Sascha and Debi have busy lives, both that I would be working year-round.” Today, second, third and fourth years on the campus working full-time and raising a family – Debi Sascha appreciates much more than the in Vancouver. teaches at the high school in Queen Charlotte security of his job. “My favourite aspect is “It’s such a wonderful place to learn,” Adeana Young models the latest CHN t-shirt. – but still, the end of their workday usually that nothing’s really the same – every day is Sascha says about his BCIT experience. Shirts are available at the SHN office in Massett entails going to the beach with kids, biking, or phone your order in: Toll free 1.888.638.7778, different and challenging.” He also enjoys “Manufacturers donate their newest machines doing yard work or working on boats. Family 250.626.5252, or, [email protected]. working with his colleagues. “We function to the Institute so students can get hands- trips are split between summer vacations in as a team and we work together – we work on experience working with the latest and A large selection of sizes are available: the Comox Valley (where Debi is from), road really well with each other.” greatest.” In his classroom time he worked on Adult: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL and 5XL trips to visit relatives in Prince George, and Youth: S, M, L, XL everything from snowmobiles to quads, and weekends fishing at Copper Bay. To get to where he is today, Sascha spent three years completing his post-secondary had a lot of fun gaining practical experience. This family doesn’t sit around waiting education at what is now Vancouver Island All of his hard work paid off when he Black Bear Bust for something to happen; Sascha spends his University (VIU) in Nanaimo. He said there completed his apprenticeship and obtained On October 17th, 2011, acting on spare time volunteering at the Canadian Coast was a wide variety of things he could have his Journeyman Ticket in 2004. But, as information received from the Canadian Air Guard, Auxiliary Station 66 in Sandspit. This done after high school but he decided to take in any trade, his learning hasn’t stopped. Transport Security Authority (CATSA) at activity is also a family affair with everyone mechanics because it seemed like it would Sascha participates in regular professional- Sandspit, Queen Charlotte RCMP started taking part in Coast Guard community events; require never-ending learning — something development and training with Parks Canada an investigation into the illegal possession taking advantage of training opportunities Sascha values highly. “It definitely motivates and is pursuing specialized training through of bear parts and illegal hunting. CATSA offered by the Coast Guard; and even taking your mind and makes you think in different Yamaha, which he will complete in the future. contacted RCMP when they noted a the occasional tear around the inlet in a very passenger transporting bear paws. With the fast zodiac – “Go faster, Dad!” information received Richmond RCMP Before starting his current position with met the flight from Sandspit and detained Gwaii Haanas nearly 10 years ago, Sascha Sascha Jones at the Gwaii Haanas office in Skidegate. STUDY & SCHOLARSHIP three adult males in connection with this worked as a prep cook; in an auto body shop; The Power Sports & Marine Technician Program investigation. Approximately 250 lbs of bear and as an engineer on the fishing boat Southern The nine-month Power Sports & Marine Technician program at Vancouver Island Univer- Sascha was talking with colleagues and soon from bow to stern — whatever is broken, I fix and deer meat and several bear paws were Provider (now the Haida Provider). He also sity, Nanaimo, is the equivalent of the training Sascha took in the 1990s and includes class- realized that he was the “only Outboard it,” he said. seized. worked for Gwaii Haanas during the summer Technician in Canada” within the Parks Canada room lectures, labs and field training. Students gain theoretical and practical knowledge for Sascha’s typical day includes checking The provincial Conservation Service unit maintaining and monitoring composting system. Being an Outboard Technician requires the maintenance of chainsaws, outdoor power products, and outboard and inboard/outboard over the boats that are in the shop and making in Vancouver continues the investigation and systems at Powrivco Bay. Sascha to have knowledge and skills beyond motors. Admission requirements include completion of Grade 12. sure they’re running smoothly. Maintenance the suspects are being investigated for several At a recent session (about troubleshooting repairing engines. “I look after pretty much Graduates of the nine-month Power Sports and Marine Technician program receive is paramount — greasing, and checking offences related to illegal hunting of black mechanical problems) on Vancouver Island, everything on all of Gwaii Haanas’ vessels — plugs, gear oil, and props. In addition to credit toward the technical portion of the first year of the Inboard/Outboard Marine Technician Apprenticeship Program. In order to complete an apprenticeship, students need bears and failing to comply with regulations to find an employer who will provide on-the-job training. associated with the transport of deer. The series, WORKING ON-ISLAND, is a collaboration between Haida Laas and Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, The hunting of black bears has been closed National Marine Area Reserve, and Haida Heritage Site. Detailed program information is available online: www.viu.ca on Haida Gwaii since Spring 2011.

18 19 Haida Laas - Newsletter of the Haida Nation