ISSN#1204-1645 Okarahshona kenh Onkwehonwene, Six Nations of the Grand WEDNESDAY, TSIOTÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 Price $1.25 (plus taxes where applicable) www.theturtleislandnews.com SNEC seeking $200,000 from farmer after promising to look at removing injunctions against Six Nations People... page 31

CONTENTS Local ...... 2 Editoral...... 6 Sports...... 9 Classified...... 35 Notices...... 35 Jamieson Kindergarten students belt out a Careers...... 38 Business Directory...... 39 Christmas tune during their annual Christmas Price $1.25 concert. Photo by Donna Duric. (plus taxes where applicable) I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TSIOTÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 I PAGE 2 I I LOCAL / ORÌ:WASE NE KÈN:THOR I www.theturtleislandnews.com Advertising deadline is 5 pm Fridays Phone: 445-0868 • Fax: 445-0865 LOCAL aboriginalbusinessmagazine.com [email protected] Six Nations Election hangs in the balance council reviewing concerns By Justin Lethbridge ensure that they are within return the information. place and everything that Writer their legal grounds before But Jamieson told him, binds those....Because of Six Nations Elected Coun- they make any decisions “You were supposed to do a what we’re learning as we cil (SNEC) is taking another on the election or the Chief report.” Jamieson said, “so go through and reviewing week to look at concerns Electoral Polling Officer. that the community would this is that we need to dig raised over the recent elec- “We are the beneficiaries be informed about our in- a little bit deeper.” tion, two appeals and the of that process, so keeping formation that was used by Local resident Alaina fate of the Chief Election those lines separate, that’s OneFeather.” VanEvery told council the Polling Officer ((CEPO)). what we’re talking about in “We are doing a report,” CEPO had to verify with The council chambers terms of the legalities and Chief Hill interrupted, “We Council that he was using were packed with commu- those parameters. Not de- are doing a report on the online voting. “Who is re- nity members last Tuesday bating what you’re saying questions Brenda (Johnson) sponsible here and where Six Nations community members packed the elected as Alaina VanEvery told but figuring out how do we submitted.” is the resolution. Helen council meeting last Tuesday. (Photo by Justin Leth- council her appeal had been process through it, making “Then you should be able (Miller) said that she didn’t bridge) rejected but she had con- sure that there is account- to answer me,” Jamieson know anything about on- cerns with the legitimacy of ability.” said, with Elected Chief line voting and neither did portant. council because there’s a the election and the CEPO. Johnson said that while Mark Hill answering “I just Carl (Hill).” “To me it’s a non-issue lot of history that has to be SNEC said they needed they did come up with a did.” Jamieson continued Councillor Helen Miller because we want to deal looked into. The first duty more time to look at the report based off of the con- pressing for answers saying said that Director of Lands with each other as human of this group would be to complex issue. cerns brought to them by that there had to be a con- and Membership Lonny beings here, as sovereign be a fact finding group, look Councillor Wendelyn local resident Brenda John- tract with OneFeather that Bomberry suggested to people and a lot of people into what actually hap- Johnson said Council is not son, it was not complete made provisions to return council to use online voting have the same understand- pened.” debating the merits of the and they needed more time the data after the citizen- after contracting OneFeath- ing that there’s a concern Others called for the in- concerns brought forth by to ensure it was done prop- ship code. er to run the Citizenship here. We see the concern, stallation of an Ombuds- multiple community mem- erly. Despite the council’s “It appeared the data was referendum online. who it is and made legit- man or other third-party bers. desire for more time, com- not returned, else wise how “The suggestion is that we imate rationale that has to look into the concerns “At the end of the day the munity members wanted did they (OneFeather) man- can look into online voting been dismissed, marginal- including the actions of the accountability lies here, answers especially regard- age to use it for this last for this election and that ized and disregarded and CEPO and how online vot- with this system. We’re ing the release of member- election. Wendy I believe was the last we heard of it. disrespected. Further what ing was handled. having big discussions ship information to a B.C. you spoke to that and said Then come election time, we’re asking for is let’s put Brenda Johnson said that about that and what that company, OneFeather, who that would be in the report we were told OneFeather our minds together as one she wants Council to re- means in terms of legal ran the online voting. tonight...It’s not proper for was going to do online vot- mind.” solve the issues without ramifications and so on...” Former candidate for chief you to call upon Steve, you ing, before that we didn’t While council deferred the the use of outside measures She said the newly elect- Cynthia Jamieson said her (Chief Mark Hill) undertook know much about it... discussion until December like the courts. ed council has found itself concern is that OneFeath- on behalf of the council, Frankly speaking I can see 16th, several options to “I’m asking you to do having to deal with the er still has the membership to have a report for us to- your concern, and I know remedy the situation were what’s right for the people ramifications of a decision information. night.” Cynthia’s question, we suggested. Former Election in the community, show us made by the council before “We were told in the last Chief Mark Hill said the don’t know what happened Code Committee member that we do have democracy. it. meeting that this contract, report only addresses con- to the membership list from Claudine VanEvery-Albert We were left to one person “The situation that we’re I think it was Dayle (for- cerns raised by Brenda the Citizenship Code to the said early in the commit- deciding everything and the in is that the 57th Elected mer SAO Bomberry) sitting Johnson. Election.” tee’s discussions on the decisions that were made Council, and this is not to up there, you asked him to Councillor Johnson agreed Councillor Miller said new election the commit- were very rude, ignorant, pass on blame or actions or look into that contract and saying council needed addi- when Council was told by tee discussed turning the ridiculous...There was no anything, went to a process he said that he would. My tional time to do their due CEPO Williams that they process of the election over place else to go, we fol- whereby we went into an concern is that our infor- diligence. were going to use online to the community. lowed the process to a ‘T’ election and entered into mation is still out there.” “We have looked at those voting, there was no res- VanEvery-Albert sug- and there was no justice an agreement so that there CEPO Steve Williams said documents but in sum- olution passed. She added gested a fact finding group there, no democracy there was a separate process that because he was the one mary, we need more time she wasn’t sure if Lonny be activated to investigate and that’s why we’re here was supposed to be free of who had to pay OneFeath- because we are concerned Bomberry gave them the “what actually happened.” at your doorstep.” conflict because it has to be er, he was the one that had enough with what we have membership list or the vot- “ I would suggest to coun- The next and final General separate from the council of the contract with them. seen. Looking at it, exam- ers list. cil and to the people, that Council meeting of 2019 is the day.” Elected Chief Mark Hill ining it, we want to do a Brenda Johnson told there be a group of peo- scheduled for Tuesday De- She said that the 58th said that OneFeather was little bit more in terms of council the issues of liabil- ple from the community... cember 17th. General Council needs to bound by the contract to the agreements we have in ity and legality are not im- with strong input from the Six Nations Election votes a numbers game..fewer people voted The 58th General Election in total there was 2,065. He given by Williams is wrong. group made up. 91 per cent of the vote, and from 18-35, 340 voted. was heralded as having the said it was the most ever Following the election, “Ages between 18-32 was leaving voters aged 78 and We couldn’t keep track of highest voter turnout ever which was credited to the Williams was asked for a about 24 per cent, 33-47 up to account for 9 per which were men and which with a total of 2,065 votes inclusion of online voting breakdown of the demo- I think was about 22 per cent. were women and the on cast, but was that really the making it easier for off-re- graphics of voters sex, ages cent, 48-62 was 25 per Williams then gave a vote and off reserve was mixed number? serve members to cast their and location which he pro- cent, 63 to 77 was about count for only three age up.” After crunching the on- ballot. vided at General Council on 20 per cent and 78 plus groups, 18-35, 35-55 and Totalled up that equals line and physical voting Yet there was only 1,716 December 10th. was less than 20 per cent.” 55 and older. 1,461 votes, less than both numbers on election night, votes cast for chief, so ei- First he provided a rough Assuming his numbers “Between 35 (55) and up, the total given by Williams Chief Electoral Polling Offi- ther 349 people didn’t place breakdown of the per- were correct, the first four 621 voted, from 36 to 55 and the number of votes for cer Steve Williams said that a vote for chief or the total centage of voters each age age groups made up ‘about’ there was 500 who voted Chief. I LOCAL / ORÌ:WASE NE KÈN:THOR I I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TSIOTÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 I PAGE 3 I ST. JOHN’S, N.L.- Indigenous leaders in Labrador are condemning an incident on a provincial flight this week when passengers accused two men of making racist remarks. PAL Airlines says it has indefinitely banned two passengers from future flights for making what the company calls ”hurtful Labrador Indigenous and derogatory remarks’’ towards people on a flight from Happy Valley-Goose Bay to St. John’s on Monday. Former Labrador MP Peter Penashue was leaders condemn one of several passengers who posted about the incident on social media. He said he was sitting behind the two men, who called an Inuk man a racial slur and mocked an Innu woman for speaking her language. ”I can’t change people but I will call you on your racist views,’’ Penashue wrote in racism on provincial a Twitter post. The airline responded the next day, confirming the incident and saying in a statement it was ”deeply troubled’’ by the remarks. “We have a proud history of partnership with Indigenous groups in Labrador and will work closely with our partners and communities to ensure our flights airline flight remain a welcoming environment for all our customers,’’ the statement read. Johannes Ampe, president of the Nunatsiavut Inuit government, called the incident”troubling and disturbing’’ and thanked the airline for its quick response. NunatuKavut Community Council President Todd Russell also expressed disappointment over what he called a ”vile’’ situation.In a statement, he thanked the airline and passengers who shared the incident on social media. ”We are united in solidarity with our Inuit cousins in Nunatsiavut, other Indigenous groups and all those who stand against any and all forms of racism and violence,’’ Russell’s statement read. SNEC says it’s exploring options to get out of injunctions against community members By Justin Lethbridge Council (HCCC) recent- Davis was named in two Writer ly sent an email to SNEC injunctions in the past year Six Nations Elected Coun- that said if the injunctions and broke down when ask- cil (SNEC) says it is ex- were addressed, talks be- ing why. ploring options to vacate tween the two councils “I just want to know what or eradicate at least two could continue. Martin said I did wrong, what did I do injunctions the previous that the two councils must wrong? Why do I have to council sought against work together. go to Superior Court? Why community members. “It is time now to put do I have to explain to my The decision came af- aside our differences and children why these injunc- ter community members proceed to our collective fu- tions affect me, I just want flooded the SNEC chambers ture. Let’s look back to our to know what I did wrong.” last Tuesday night. cultural teachings, staying Davis said that all she did An Ontario Court grant- grounded in our principles was support the Confeder- ed two injunctions against and allow them to lead to a acy Council. Six Nations people after brighter future for all mem- “I was named in all these the previous band council bers of the Six Nations of different things and what petitioned the court to re- the Grand River.” did I do? I supported what Six Nations community members Colin Martin and Joleen General asked the new move people from outside Elected Chief Mark Hill they did because I do sup- SNEC to drop injunctions against the community last Tuesday. (Photo by Justin the council building and lo- who was on the previ- port that (The HCCC) and Lethbridge) cal farmer Kris Hill from the ous council, agreed that that’s my inherent right to controversial Burtch lands. it is time the community do that.” over the farming dispute in order.“It sounds like an council has never given her In addition the former Six comes together. He said it Local farmer Kris Hill told and still has not concluded. apology is in order based the opportunity to discuss Nations Band Council and all comes down to commu- council she has been faced In addition to court costs in our way of thinking. It’s the issue and the entire in- the Six Nations Grand River nication. with an injunction for two SNEC is seeking damages of definitely been around con- junction process has great- Development Corporation “I think in terms of mov- years. up to $1 million from Hill. trol, to a certain extent, ly affected her wellbeing. were both instrumental in ing forward you said it loud SNEC sought an injunc- Elected Chief Mark Hill when it comes to the gov- “I wanted to have the op- supporting Hydro One who and clear, and I couldn’t tion and damages against told the crowded meeting ernance of this community. portunity have a discussion sought and was granted an agree with you more, it’s Hill who farmed the Burtch SNEC has to do their due Hopefully when we come with council so that what injunction, against com- time for us to come to- lands on a lease from the diligence in order to de- to the table, we can discuss happened to me never, ever munity members and the gether. It’s time for these HCCC. cide how to move forward these things further.” happened to these people Haudenosaunee Confeder- leadership bodies to put When SNEC representa- on the issue of injunctions Councillor Wendelyn because it’s a hard process. acy Chiefs Council, to re- their differences truly aside tives told her to cease Hill but thanked the commu- Johnson said that the You talk about safety in the move a protest from the Ni- and look how we can tru- said she had a lease to farm nity members for coming injunctions should be community, I was scared agara Reinforcement Line. ly communicate...I think the lands, had already in- forward. dropped going forward. for my safety. I had threats, Following a statement moving forward we have vested heavily in the farm- “You’ve never had the “I don’t know how to I had people spin (cars) on delivered by communi- to continuously look at our ing and their issue was opportunity to come and stop the injunctions, how my lawn...I’m to the point ty member Colin Martin, communication because with the HCCC who had speak on this specific issue, do we put that to rest and where I don’t go to com- named in one of the in- we shouldn’t get to a point leased the lands to her. so I think that was a good go forward. I don’t know munity events because I junctions, SNEC passed where we’re shutting down Hill had been farming the step in the right direction what the process is for that have anxiety because of a motion to look into the buildings to communicate.” lands for three years before to be able to address from otherwise I’d be prepared that.” injunctions placed by band In an attempt to get the SNEC interceded. your perspective. That’s a to say let’s just stop it and She said that the media- council against Six Nations two councils talking, com- SNEC did not reach out fair opportunity and I think let’s move forward, let’s go tion process that occurred community members. munity members shut to the HCCC and instead moving forward we have to on the path that we should between the two councils Acting as a spokesper- down the band administra- sought and was granted an be fair, we have to look at be working on.” as a result of the injunction son for those named in the tion office for two months injunction against Hill. how we’re being fair, open, Councillor Helen Mill- was controlled poorly by injunctions, Martin said during the summer. It led to Hill was also slapped transparent, accountable er cautioned against the the lawyers and never al- the removal of the injunc- meetings between the two with a contempt of court on all of these issues that wording of the motion. lowed the two councils to tions would go a long way councils. The only action order for refusing to al- have been raised tonight.” “When you put the word speak on the issue. Hill said towards creating unity be- from that meeting was to low crops she had planted Davis thanked the Coun- stop in there, you’re prom- that she is worried that tween the SNEC and Con- hold a planting session on on the Burtch lands to die cil for the opportunity to ising people something that SNEC isn’t in control of its federacy Council. the Burtch lands. and tended to them after come forward and speak we might not be able to do. lawyer and it is within their “We are here today to ask When protesters refused a Brantford judge order to together about the issue That’s promising people authority to stop the in- that all Injunctions and to leave the council lawn stay off the lands during and about how the two that we’re going to be able junctions because they are related actions brought band council sought an in- the trial. councils will work together to stop it and we might not the plaintiff. against the people of the junction against them and A year ago Hill was or- going forward. be able to do that.” The injunction issue is Six Nations, be dropped John and Jane Doe of Six dered by Justice John Harp- “When people were sit- Councillor Miller has been due to return to Superior and that this council agrees Nations er to pay “full indemnity ting on the lawn, that’s re- vocal in opposing the in- Court on December 20th. to no longer use these ag- Standing alongside Mar- costs” to elected council ally all they wanted was for junctions in the past. SNEC is expected to re- gressive behaviours against tin, community members and the numbered com- the two councils to come Kris Hill said she has been visit the issue later this our people,” he read. Joleen Johnson and Col- pany. Court costs for both together.” living under a SNEC injunc- month. He said that the Haudeno- leen Davis asked that the the HCCC and SNEC have Councillor Melba Thom- tion for two years. saunee Confederacy Chiefs injunctions be removed. mounted to over $1 million as said that an apology is She said the previous I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TsIOTHórHa / deceMber 18, 2019 I PAGE 4 I I local / Orì:wase ne kèn:thor I The PerfectTurtle Island News Storm: Homelessness in the city

By Donna Duric abrupt and fiery end on Dec. camp on Greenwich St. “It’s the perfect storm,” Writer 4 when police began clean- On the morning of the said Philp. “A space which BRANTFORD - At least ing up the camp and one of eviction, paramedics had might have formerly rented two dozen homeless people the residents set fire to his to treat a man at the camp for a couple of hundred dol- in Brantford were left scram- makeshift shack in protest. suffering from hypothermia. lars a month is now being bling to find a place to stay He is now facing criminal It was just barely -1C that rented to three students at for the winter after their charges. morning. $500 apiece,” he said. “Land- tent city was shut down. Tucked away in a small “If the camp hadn’t shut lords are doing quite well. In a city struggling with woodlot across from the down that day, that man The people who used to live overflowing shelters and Brantford Casino, the ram- would’ve died,” said Philp. in those houses are no lon- a lack of affordable hous- shackle tent city, dubded “It would’ve been the first ger able to do so. On top of ing, homeless people are Welcome Love Camp, was death at the camp.” that, Brantford has a vacancy rate of a half of one per cent. A healthy housing mar- ket would be somewhere around four or five per cent. And the affordable housing rate is effectively zero.” The average rental price for a one-bedroom apart- ment in Brantford is $1,171, according to rentboard.ca. That’s over $400 more a month than Ontario Works provides to a single indi- Johnny was living in a wooden shack he built at the vidual. camp. ( Photo by Jim C Powless) The average monthly Richard Carpenter, 34, watches the campfire slowly burn. (Photo by Jim C Powless) Ontario Works cheque for a single person is about $730. sleeping in ATM lobbies, seen as a solution to home- The newly-opened Win- If you are even able to find stairwells, and finding brief lessness by the residents ter Warmth shelter is al- a room in a house for $500 respite in overnight shelters. who lived there. ready operating at half ca- a month, that doesn’t leave Although the camp They had bonded as a pacity within its first week much money for anything seemed to provide a home- community and said they of opening. 25 people are us- else to see a person through lessness solution from the looked out for one another. ing the shelter every night, the month. perspective of the people But almost all of the in- said Philp. Isaiah Smoke, 32, of Six who lived there, at least one habitants were drug users, Before it opened, the city Nations, visited the camp shelter manager in Brantford by their own admission. of over 100,000 people had every day. He used to live believes otherwise. “A lot of people use down only three homeless shel- there this past summer. “I think the camp being here because it keeps you ters offering a total of 64 He said half the camp’s shut down is a good thing,” warm,” said one of the resi- beds, which are all overflow- population was made up of said Tim Philp, executive di- dents, who didn’t want his ing beyond capacity. Indigenous people, despite rector of Rosewood House, name used. “It makes you A lack of affordable hous- the fact they only make up a 24-hour co-ed shelter. “I relaxed.” ing, sky-high rental prices, five per cent of the city’s guarantee you that if that The camp was shut down and a huge influx of students entire population. He spent camp continued, someone just days after an emergency attending Laurier Univer- five months at the camp would’ve died there.” drop-in shelter, named sity has created a dearth of this year before moving to The six-month long “Winter Warmth”, was affordable rental spaces for Johnny was making homemade Christmas wreaths a sober living facility. The to sell. ( Photo by Jim C Powless) encampment came to an opened right next to the many people in the city. population of the camp’s in-

Nova Vita Domestic Vio- vices, and sometimes assists call home. “Safe, affordable housing Joseph, executive director of mitment to fund rent-geared- lence Prevention Services in housing women from Six “Sometimes they have should be a right, not a privi- Brantford Native Housing. to-income (RGI) units as an Nations who’d rather be fur- to trade sex work to find a lege,” said Dobler. “It’s spiral- “Indigenous populations option for affordable housing Nova Vita is a 10-bed cli- ther away from their abus- place to say,” said Dobler. ling out of control. are certainly facing a bigger and construction capital to ent-centered residential shel- ers by staying at its shelter Like other shelters in problem with homelessness build new RGI units. ter that provides counselling in Brantford, instead of the Brantford, Nova Vita is op- Brantford Native Housing due to a number of reasons,” “The lack of RGI and af- services to women and shelter on Six Nations. erating over capacity. They Brantford Native Housing he said. “The biggest factor fordable stock is a need for children escaping domestic Women face unique chal- have 33 beds but had 41 peo- has been operating since we directly witness at BNH all populations across the violence and homelessness lenges when it comes to ple staying at the facility on 1986 to provide affordable is racism, with many land- country,” said Joseph. “In and counselling services to homelessness because they Nov. 26. housing to Indigenous peo- lords not wanting to rent Brantford, for the Indigenous perpetrators of domestic vi- are often raising children, And it’s not just women ple in the city. BNH currently to Indigenous individuals, population alone...we would olence in Brantford. said Dobler. “Women’s escaping domestic violence assists with housing about period, and others who be- estimate based on our wait Like other shelters in the homelessness looks differ- who are coming to Nova 438 people. But there are come homeless because of lists that an additional 500 city, Nova Vita serves a dis- ent. There’s a lot of hidden Vita now. another 400 people on its neighbours who are overly to 700 units are required.” proportionate number of homelessness that happens “In March 2018, we saw waitlist for affordable hous- critical and complain and Indigenous women and chil- City Response with women.” a huge increase in single ing. Waitlists range from 9 to harass unnecessarily and of- dren. ‘Hidden homelessness’ re- women,” said Dobler. That 15 years. ten enough that Indigenous The city acknowledges “We need to focus on fers to women who are find- corresponded with funding “Many in need want a families become evicted or Indigenous people face the Indigenous community ing temporary accommo- cuts to the Salvation Army place right now, are already move away...because the homelessness at a dispro- when it comes to housing,” dation that doesn’t involve at that time, which had 10 homeless or are at risk of racism and conflict is un- portionately higher rate said Natasha Dobler, execu- the use of shelters and could female beds that they were homelessness and are couch bearable for them and their than other demographics. tive director. include staying at a friend’s forced to stop offering due to surfing from place to place or children.” “In recognition that Nova Vita works with house or crashing on a couch the cuts and safety issues for are in substandard housing Joseph says the govern- homelessness and hous- Ganohkwasra Six Nations with no permanent place to women at the shelter. conditions,” said Andrew ment needs to make a com- ing instability is experi- Family Assault Support Ser- I local / Orì:wase ne kèn:thor I I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TsIOTHórHa / deceMber 18, 2019 I PAGE 5 I

(Left) One of the shacks was purposely set on fire The Perfect Storm: Homelessness in the city after the city, aided by police, cleared the camp on Dec. 4 ( Photo by Jim C Powless) (Below) Residents scrambled to pack their things after the fire was put out and they were told to leave. ( Photo by Jim C Powless) shelters in the city: Winter opened,” said Philps. “We’ve Warmth, Rosewood House, been jammed.” Nova Vita Domestic Vio- A disproportionate num- lence Prevention Services ber of the clients at Rose- and the Salvation Army wood are of Indigenous Booth Centre. Rosewood background. offers 24-hour co-ed beds, On Nov. 25, out of the 30 while the Salvation Army is beds available at Rosewood geared to men. Nova Vita of- House, about 7 of them were fers beds for woman-identi- being occupied by people fied individuals and children who self-identified as Indig- fleeing domestic violence. enous, said Philps. Before December 2018, “That’s a pretty high per- Rosewood was a group centage,” he said. “You have habitants ranged anywhere big barrier for Smoke in can’t even pay for what to think or talk or to home for people who had many Indigenous people from 17 to 25 people per day. escaping homelessness. they’re asking for an apart- function in society, then it’s brushes with the law, mental who are on the lower end of “Probably upwards of “The price of rent around ment with my welfare even worse. People don’t health issues or substance the socioeconomic stratum that, maybe,” said Smoke. town has gone up so much,” cheque right now.” understand that. You have to abuse problems. A year ago, who would rely on afford- Smoke had a well-paying have that little bit just to be the city wasn’t able to fund able housing and they can’t. job but he lost it due to an stable enough so you’re not that program anymore and There’s certainly the preju- injury. having that itch so you can had a desperate need for dice aspect of it that comes “I’m a tradesman, too, but think about taking the next homeless shelters. So Rose- into play. We try to be re- there’s not a lot of roofs to step. It’s the sad truth.” wood modified its program spectful of Indigenous be- do right now. Plus, I’m still Homelessness reached to become an emergency liefs and connect Indigenous getting over my injury. I hurt crisis levels this year in shelter instead. clients with Indigenous re- my hand and threw out my Brantford, with overflowing Rosewood has been sources. But there are people back. This is the first time shelters that resulted in peo- packed ever since. out there who just hate peo- I’ve had this issue (home- ple being turned away, said “We’ve basically been ple that aren’t white. That’s lessness).” Philp. working at overflow since embarrassing. I’m ashamed He admits drugs played a There are currently four the second month that we ( continued on page 7) role in him becoming home- less, as well. Like millions of others, Isaiah Smoke, 34, lived at the camp for a while and Smoke used drugs and alco- became a volunteer to help the remaining residents hol as a means to cope and before it was shut down. ( Photo by Jim C Powless) to “run away from feelings. What I’ve realized through “(Homelessness) affects us said Smoke, explaining that detox and treatment and more than any other race five years ago, he was rent- therapy is that you have to I can see in town here. It’s ing an apartment for $635 feel. You can’t cop out and all because of a breakdown a month. That exact same run away. You’ve gotta be in the family unit is what apartment is now going for human. It’s daunting. You causes it. Loneliness feeds $1,450. don’t know where to start into that; addiction plays “I know they raised min- to fix your problems. When into it, as well.” imum wage, but it doesn’t you need alcohol so badly High rental prices pose a cover the gap,” he said. “I that it impairs your ability

enced disproportionately for 30 new affordable hous- ing for community housing. significant barriers to their some of the most abhor- sented by those of Indig- by residents identifying ing units on Marlene Avenue The waiting list is between enjoyment of the right to rent housing conditions enous ancestry, receiving as Indigenous, shelter ser- in the Eagle Place neigh- eight and 10 years. housing compared with across the planet, including social assistance, living in vice providers must offer bourhood. Affordable hous- In the meantime, home- non-indigenous peoples. in some of the richest coun- temporary housing or shel- service in a manner which ing units charge tenants less people in Brantford will They are more likely to suf- tries in the world.” ters who have likely expe- reflects the unique history rent below market value, have to rely on the Winter fer inadequate housing and rienced multiple factors that of Indigenous peoples; con- while taking into account a Warmth emergency shelter negative health outcomes Statistics: have led to housing loss siders pathways specific to person’s monthly income. in December, just before an- as a result, they have dis- • The population of Brant- Indigenous homelessness; A city report identified other frigid Canadian win- proportionately high rates ford is about 100,000 people Jan. 1 to June 30, 2019: respects cultural beliefs; relationship breakdown as ter sets in. of homelessness and they with Indigenous people and acknowledges that In- the number one reason for are extremely vulnerable to • 11% of shelter guests International Homelessness making up 5.5 per cent of digenous homelessness is homelessness in Brantford. forced evictions, land-grab- that population identified as Indigenous primarily a structural and/ Addiction and mental health Among Indigenous People bing and the effects of cli- • In March 2018, 35 per cent • 68% of the homeless or systemic issue,” reads a were also identified as major mate change. When they Even the United Nations of the 186 homeless people population identified as September 2018 city report contributors in a homeless- defend their rights, they are has acknowledged that surveyed in Brantford/Brant male; 32 % female on homelessness. ness report presented to Indigenous people face often the targets of extreme were Indigenous, according The city is expected to Brantford City Council by disproportionately higher violence.” to a Brantford/Brant “point • 89% of shelter guests are complete a community the Social Services Commit- rates of homelessness than The UN report states: “In- in time (PiT)” count of the on social assistance homelessness plan this tee on Nov. 6, 2019. other populations. digenous peoples are often city’s homeless population. • There has been a 69% month and has established The report says the de- A special report on hous- grossly overrepresented in • The 2018 PiT count increase in shelter usage a task force specifically mand for affordable housing ing presented to the United homeless populations in ur- showed that the majority between January 2018 mandated to find affordable in the Brant and Brantford Nations general assembly in ban centres and at increased of homeless people in Brant- and January 2019 housing solutions in the area is at an all-time high July 2019 stated: risk of premature mortality. ford are adult males between city. Plans are in the works with 1,700 households wait- “Indigenous peoples face Indigenous peoples live in the ages of 25-64, overrepre- I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TSIOTÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 I PAGE 6 I I LOCAL / ORÌ:WASE NE KÈN:THOR I Judicial review of election could be in the offing By Justin Lethbridge She added that she sub- involved in the decisions VanEvery also requested a can’t make a decision based Writer mitted her further appeal making on either her ap- recall of the election. on the Election Code or Six Nations’ recent elec- to the Appeals Committee peal or Brenda Johnson’s “Based on all of this in- CEPO.” tion could be facing a Judi- under duress and their re- appeal. formation, based on how Councillor Melba Thomas cial Review leaving the fate sponse was a slap in the “I think both of them did, it was conducted, based on said that Council needs to of the current council still face. VanEvery pushed for they did look at both of the person that conducted consult with legal council up in the air after an anon- the appeals. They stepped it and the behaviours that before making any motion. ymous Election Appeals down. Council asked them were exemplified, the elec- Councillor Hazel Johnson Committee deemed a com- if they wanted their names tion is invalid and I believe agreed. plaint “irrelevant.” public and they didn’t and that if I put all of this in- “I too feel like I’m not in Alaina VanEvery told Six stepped down.” formation forth in a Judi- any position to make any Nations Elected Council VanEvery said that their cial Review, they are going decision that would negate (SNEC) Tuesday court ac- decision to step down in- Steve Williams to find the same thing. I’m this council, at this time. tion may be the only ave- validates the decisions giving you the opportuni- We were all elected by the nue left open to her. made on the appeals and information and I think ev- ty to do it before I have to people, we are sit her be- She said the Six Nations that it was an incomplete erybody else in this room go through a review... So cause the people voted for Election Appeals Commit- list. She pressed Williams would ask for the same in- which one of you will be us and the people in this tee called her concerns “ir- for the first names but he formation if I ask them to brave enough to put forth room is not one tenth of all relevant” and SNEC seems refused to provide them. stand up. So that means this motion?” the people who voted. If it unwilling to act on her con- “You got the list, that’s all you have to either force cerns. you need. I’m sorry.” him to do it or he is being Alaina VanEvery ques- When VanEvery replied insubordinate which gives tioned the actions and con- that he isn’t sorry Williams you cause to terminate duct of the Chief Electoral Alaina VanEvery cheekily agreed. Offended, him.” Polling Officer Steve Wil- VanEvery pushed him to re- VanEvery said that she liams and questioned the the release of the names peat what he just said. needs to submit her paper- operations of the election of who sat on the Appeals “I probably said I’m not work for a Judicial Review including the use of online Committee. sorry,” Williams replied, within 30 days of receiving voting. “Mr. Williams was asked the decision by the Appeals “How are my concerns who sat on this Appeals Committee. She said that irrelevant?” VanEvery asked Committee and he refused so far she has spent her Council after reading out to disclose the names. In own time in drafting a sev- the response she received his reason not to disclose en page appeal and spent from the Election Appeals the names, he criminalized $200 of her own money to Committee. “This response those who asked for the submit it only to receive no is a slap in the face, and it’s names...I am offended, I am real answers from Williams patronizing.” a member of this communi- or the Appeals Committee. VanEvery said she came to ty and this individual (Wil- Elected Council continued council to get answers from liams) gets to solely judge to push for an extra week at CEPO Williams and a res- me. Then he gets to pick which point VanEvery said olution on the issue from the people who get to judge that she has a solution that Council before receiving a me and I have no recourse.” would resolve the matter response from the Appeals She said that she wants The list of the anonymous immediately. Committee. While stating to know who sits on the election appeals commit- “I request that a motion her case to council Tuesday appeals committee and tee was presented at SNEC be made to terminate Steve night, she did not pull any pressed Williams to re- Williams as CEPO based on punches. lease the names. Councillor failure to provide requested “Who has read the pack- Wendelyn Johnson said af- “it’s been like going on for public information, failure age? Ok then who has not ter the last meeting coun- five weeks.” to respond to an appeal, read the package, every- cil had Williams ask the When Williams contin- compromising the integrity body? Is that status quo committee to provide their ued to refuse to provide the of the election, insolence, for this? I got it in by the names. first names, VanEvery asked breach of trust, breach of date so I assumed that ev- “Council did ask Steve council to take action on policy, misconduct, uneth- erybody would have had a (Williams) or say that it CEPO Williams. ical use of a private sector chance to read it. It’s been was our expectation that “How many times do I email, insubordination, online.” the names would be pub- have to sit here and be dis- avoidable inconsistencies Several councillors said lic and anybody who did respected by this person... which resulted in errors that they did read her elec- not want to be public, it Do you agree that his com- with election code imple- tion information online. was their decision if they ment to me is insolence?” mentation.” VanEvery ran through her wanted to step down but CEPO Williams apolo- She said that Council has concerns and the dismissal it should be a public pro- gized for his comment. insurance in the event that of her appeal by the CEPO cess.” SNEC made no decision Williams takes them to A list of the new council’s concerns appears on a door- Williams and the Appeals Williams said that he pro- on his conduct. court for wrongful dismiss- way at the band office. Committee. She said CEPO vided the list to Elected Council instead pushed al or breach of contract. Williams neglected to an- Chief Mark Hill. to delay any action until In addition VanEvery add- No Councillor put forth a became a referendum where swer any of her concerns Elected Chief Hill, after the next council meeting ed that she wants council motion, with several saying the community would have including perceived con- receiving permission from so they could review the to void the online portion that they needed to consult their say on whether there flicts of interest. council released the list concerns and do their due of the election which she with legal council before should be a re-election, “He fails to provide any which only contained the diligence. said would not affect the making any decisions. then it would be the peo- documentation, his an- last name and first initial of VanEvery said that Coun- outcome of the election. “I don’t agree with it so ple’s choice. Not ours, not swers were simply ‘there the committee members. cil doesn’t need any more She also asked for a new I’m not going to do the the people in this room, the is no conflict’. It speaks to Williams added that there time to come to a decision. election code committee, motion,” Councillor Hel- whole community.” the fact that he seems to were two members who did “This (Williams response the creation of an election en Miller said, “it’s not Elected Council moved any believe he is not answer- not want their names pub- to her appeal) is insubor- code that is representative because I’m not brave decision regarding CEPO able to anybody, especially lic. dination. You guys are re- of the majority of the com- enough, I don’t agree with Williams and the Election members of the community VanEvery asked if either sponsible to me and the munity and the hiring of a it. I don’t think council, this to General Council on De- and an appellant.” of the two people had been community. I am asking for new CEPO. is not a council thing. We cember 17th. I LOCAL / ORÌ:WASE NE KÈN:THOR I I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TSIOTÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 I PAGE 7 I UNDER THE NORTHERN SKY: For The Love Of Our Elders sa in 2016. It was a visit full up to his brother Thom- cently passed away a week of laughter and recollections as and he also took care of before Uncle Cheekanish. that I had together with my their sister Celine and their Elder Metatawabin was from cousins Ron Kataquapit and youngest brother David. the same generation as Un- Roger Nakogee. Leo was a Uncle Cheekanish explained cle Cheekanish and they master story teller and he that he didn’t use a firearm were good friends through- had a knack of mixing ev- until he was 17 years of age. out their lives. Elder Meta- ery memory and teachings Before then, he had done tawabin was a kind gentle with plenty of laughter so of all his hunting with snares, character who had been part course it was easy to remem- traps and a bow and arrow. of the lives of so many people ber his stories. I had never realized that my in our community. He didn’t He told us about the or- ancestors had used the bow have a family of his own but igins of his Cree nickname and arrow. My father Marius he had a community full of Cheekanish and the fact that often remarked that uncle people who considered him Xavier Kataquapit it came from childhood. As a Eli Metatawabin Leo Kataquapit Cheekanish was the best part of theirs. boy, he had a minor accident hunter and trapper in the I’m sure that Uncle By Xavier Kataquapit that involved his aunt who north of Attawapiskat near provide enough sustenance family. Cheekanish has found an old My uncle Cheekanish was using a small axe to cut Winisk closer to the Hudson by melting snow to water Even though he fiddle again and invited Eli to passed away on November wood. The axe his aunt used Bay coast. His father James and that had to do until the was raised on the land in the a party somewhere. Uncle 24 at the age of 88 in At- had nearly hit him in some and mother Janie lived in this famine ended. wilderness he also learned Cheekanish has met up with tawapiskat. minor way and he ran back area before moving south He had moments of further how to play music and be- his brother Gabriel and they He is my father Marius’s to his parents and tried to to Attawapiskat. My uncle suffering as a child when he came an accomplished fiddle are all laughing and playing older brother. explain what had happened. mentioned that he was born was forced to attend residen- player along with his brother again like they did as young Uncle Cheekanish’s English The Cree word for little axe at a place called ‘Sesematawa tial school. He described how Gabriel. In his prime, Uncle men with their parents and name was Leo Kataquapit. is Chee-kah-eh-kah-n-ish. Sakeehegun’ during a time horribly he was treated and Cheekanish played at many all their loved ones before My family mourned at his As a little boy who was still when life was very difficult for how the experience had left community gatherings and them. I can hear the fiddles, passing but we also celebrat- learning to speak, all his par- everyone. Life there was lived him with terrible memories events. He loved making peo- the clapping, the stomping, ed his memory as he had lived ents could understand from as it had been for thousands of what was done to him and ple laugh and he enjoyed it the shuffling of flying feet in a long full life that he filled his excited cries was how he of years by our ancestors. He others. Even though these even more if he could make step dances and the laugh- with as much fun, happiness mispronounced the word and remembered many stories things had been perpetuated them dance and sing. ter of a hall full of family and and goodness as he could. shouted instead ‘Cheekan- that his parents passed down by the church, he still held a Everyone that knew him or friends. Cheekanish and Eli Uncle Cheekanish and his ish, Cheekanish’. His parents to him about how their world strong Catholic faith blended met him, from old time hunt- are still making us all smile in wife Theresa raised a strong were happy that he was not was filled with Native tradi- with traditional spiritual be- ers, traditional people, family, their memory and I love them family of children, grandchil- seriously hurt but they found tion, spiritual beliefs, visions lief and he looked up to the friends, as well as non-Na- for that. dren and great grandchildren it funny to hear his words and and legends. Virgin Mary as a figure that tive visitors, medical people, Chi-Meegwetch Nookoomis that inherited their sense of the name stuck with him ever As a young boy, he said that had saved his life through teachers and visitors to our Cheekanish Neh-sh-tah Eli, laughter, warmth and kind- after. Just about everybody I their family often struggled prayer many times. community all went away Kee-sah-kee-eh-tee-nah-n ness. His children include knew up the James Bay coast through periods of famine. As a boy he learned to with a story. (Thank you so much Uncle Robert, Maria, Noella, Peter, ended up with some kind of He recalled one winter where hunt, trap and fish with his We are losing our Elders Cheekanish and Eli, we love Rollande, Jeffrey and Jerry. nickname from childhood his family had not been able father James and his broth- in Attawapiskat and I was you) I remember my last visit and he was no exception. to find enough food. Amaz- ers George, Alex, Gabriel and sad to learn that Eli Meta- www.underthenorthernsky. with him and his wife There- He was born in 1931 far ingly his mother managed to my father Marius. He looked tawabin had also just re- com

Homelessness mally, mental health leads light bulb in his face. Chief Stacey Laforme re-elected to third term to the drug addiction so you “Still don’t know why,” said end up with what you call a Philp, although he acknowl- Chief Stacey Laforme, along concurrent disorder. But drug edged, “mental illness is the with five elected Councillors, addiction by itself can make proximal cause of what hap- were re-elected in the Mis- you unhousable, as well as pened.” sissaugas of the Credit First mental health, can you make He said he can’t let a per- Nation Election (MCFN). you unhousable. If you’re not son like that back into the Back for his third term as capable of managing your af- shelter because, “I can never Chief, Laforme has served fairs to pay your rent on time tell when they’re going to do his community on council or your mental health is such it again.” for the past two decades that you’re a noisy tenant He said homelessness is (continued from page 5) after first being elected as a because you get angry easi- a complex situation that re- councillor in 1999. During ly, you’re likely to be evicted. quires creative solutions. Al- of that but it’s true.” that time he was also in- He said 20 per cent of There’s a great deal of that though some housing advo- volved with MCFN’s Pan Am homeless people are without that happens.” cates tout “housing first” as Games Secretariat (PAGS), as a home due to circumstanc- “We try to point them to a solution to homelessness, Chief Stacey Laforme re-elected to third term. es such as marital problems, the agencies that can help Philps doesn’t see it that way, Chair of the PAGS Commit- their parents kicked them out, them,” said Philp. “The dif- at least not for everyone fac- tee. After the Election re- cillors running for re-elec- Forme finished ninth with they’ve lost a job, or had a se- ficulty with that is that... ing homelessness. sults were released, Laforme tion, five were elected to 117 votes. rious illness. they’re not ready to get help.” “Housing first will not work released a short statement serve another term; Evan In total 414 valid votes were “Some circumstance hap- There are also people that for people with mental health on Facebook. Sault, Erma Ferrell, Veron- cast for council with eight pened that made them home- have demonstrated an inabil- and addictions,” he said. “You “I look forward to serving ica King-Jamieson, Cathie votes being rejected and less. If you can provide them ity to work within the shelter cannot just give them a house with the new council. I also Jamieson and Bill Rodger 413 valid votes were cast for with housing they can afford, system who have essential- because they’ll destroy it.” believe that there were oth- LaForme. Sault received the Chief with nine votes being you’ll never see them again ly been banned from using He said the city should ers who ran for council and highest amount of votes rejected. The MCFN have an (in the system). They can look them. fund group homes where peo- should be elected in the fu- among the candidates run- enrolled population of 2,330 after themselves; they can do “They’ve been violent,” ple can straighten out their ture and I will do my best to ning for council with a total people with 850 living on the everything they need to do.” said Philp. “I have a responsi- addictions and mental health assist them next year. Miig- of 262 votes. MCFN reserve as of numbers The other 80 per cent, he bility not only to my staff, but issues to ensure they are ca- wech.” Joining them on council taken in 2015. While they said, suffer from drug addic- also to the other people that pable of living in long-term Of the 413 valid votes cast will be Craig P. King who gar- did not use online voting, tion, mental health problems live here.” housing. for Chief, Laforme garnered a nered the second most votes off-reserve voters were able or both. That makes them He shared an anecdote of “The city is looking at cre- majority with 269 votes to for council with 223 and Ju- to vote via mail-in ballots. “unhouseable,” said Philp. someone who was staying ative solutions,” said Philps. beat his sole challenger, for- lie A. LaForme who finished The new Elected Council at Rosewood, who, for no “In the meantime, we have to “(Mental health and drug mer Councillor Larry Sault. third with 216 votes. Former will serve a three-year term. apparent reason, went up to make sure that people don’t addiction) is a fairly signifi- Of the six incumbent coun- councillor Stephanie L. La- cant factor,” he said. “Nor- his best friend and smashed a die.” I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TSIOTÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 I PAGE 8 I I COMMENTARY I TSI NAHÒ:TEN RÓN:TON I

Liberal minority focus won’t be on Indigenous issues Four years ago in the 2015 federal election, Justin Trudeau came to Indigenous people bearing gifts. He promised if elected as Prime Minister, he would enact calls to action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), develop a nation-to-nation rela- tionship and implement the United Nations Declara- tion on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). Elected, giving Canada its glittering dynasty, Trudeau began the work on a nation-to-nation relationship with Indigenous peoples. One he said would be based on respect and consultation. But during his first term as Prime Minister reality sunk in for the young politician. It kicked off with the inquiry into Missing and Mur- dered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) that came close to sinking. Then came the Indigenous Rights legislation he planned to implement without talking to First Nations. His decision to buy a $4.5-billion dollar pipeline without consultation with Indigenous communities sparked protests. His treatment of the first Indigenous person, let alone TURTLE ISLAND NEWS the first Indigenous woman to reach the lofty offices of North America’s # 1 Native Weekly Newspaper! Okarahsonha kenh Onkwehonwene Attorney General, removing her from her post, kicking her out of the caucus and then the party sent a clear Name: message to Indigenous people, play his game his way. Street: City: He was not interested in the Indigenous perspective or Province: Postal Code: Phone: the law of the land Jody Wilson-Raybould tried to save him from breaking. Mail or Email Subscription Order Form & Payment to: But the ultimate betrayal came with his decision to TURTLE ISLAND NEWS, P.O. Box 329, Ohsweken, Ontario N0A 1M0 challenge the landmark judicial ruling to compensate Phone: 519-445-0868 • Fax: 519-445-0865 Email: [email protected] $ 00 $ 00 First Nations children impacted by the child welfare CANADA • 12 MONThS ~ 115. USA • 12 MONThS ~ 125. system. INTERNATIONAL • 12 MONThS ~ $180.00 CORPORATE 285.00 For Indigenous people the Liberal government became on-line: CANADA • 12 MONThS ~ $85.00 USA • 12 MONThS ~ $90.00 a party mired in contradicitions who would pave a path to a nation-to-nation relationship based on not (Continued from left...) ination and conflict and sues. bia where the NDP gov- what was good for Canada or Indigenous people but ward thinking in B.C. who instead ensuring economic In 2017, on National ernment passed legislation what was good for the Liberal Party. made history in October as justice and fairness. Aboriginal Day, Trudeau concerning UNDRIP fur- In October, the country slapped Trudeau and his Lib- the first province in Cana- They made history. claimed “no relationship is ther highlighting the failure erals with a minority government. da to introduce legislation Why couldn’t and can’t more important to Canada of the Trudeau government Trudeau’s re-election campaign didn’t come with the aimed at adopting the UN the Liberals? than the relationship with to pass Bill C-262. glitz and promises of working with Indigenous people Declaration on the Rights With the Liberals facing Indigenous peoples.” Not surprising priorities in that propelled him to a majority government in 2015 of Indigenous Peoples. the Trans Mountain pipe- His first term in office Ottawa change with each and led people to believe a new Canada was coming. A move aimed at improv- line extension, Western showed the country, that election. Trudeau is facing Instead he almost quietly claimed his Liberals will ing the status quo in the alienation, Bill 21 pressure really isn’t so. a rising tide of Western continue their path with reconciliation, focus on ending province for First Nations and keeping both Con- His idea of a nation-to-na- alienation and the delicate long-term boil-water advisories by 2021, and were al- and industry. The legis- servatives and NDP at as tion relationship is one dance that comes with a most forced into committing funding to build a mercu- lation mandates govern- much of a distance as he built uncompromisingly on minority government that ry treatment facility in Grassy Narrows, while claiming ment to bring its laws and can claiming he will not what is acceptable to a Lib- is already indicating a po- they would reintroduce the implementation of UNDRIP policies into harmony with seek a coalition with either eral Canada, not one built litical shift to national uni- something that apears to be a formidable task under a the aims of the declaration. party and instead says he on Indigenous values, tra- ty and away from Indige- majority Liberal government may now become impossi- For B.C. it was about plans to prioritize working ditions and rights. No that nous issues. ble. Despite the emergence of for- (Continued right) putting an end to discrim- with other parties on is- came from British Colum-

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Assumption makes quick work of the Thunderbirds

Kaleb Thomas doesn’t give up in the paint fighting for every last bucket. (Photo By Josh Giles)

JOSH GILES TURTLE ISLAND NEWS SPORTS REPORTER...LOOK FOR HIM AT YOUR NEXT SPORTING EVENT! I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TsIOTHórHa / deceMber 18, 2019 I PAGE 10 i Sports / Tehontkahri’tsherón:nisI I ACS Lions feast on Pauline Johnson

By Josh Giles 61-14. But that didn’t Daelon Smith and Kaleb Sports Writer stop team coach Steve Thomas. BRANTFORD - Dom- Petrella from being on After the game, inance is the only way his team to perform to Petrella felt good about to describe Assumption their best abilities. “You his team’s performance, College’s play when they always have to make sure “We started off strong, visited Pauline Johnson that they’re talking with and we knew we wanted for a Jr. Boys basketball each other and commu- to take this game as an game. It was a lopsided nicating with each other. opportunity to work on affair from the start when Especially on defense. things. Things we’ve the Lions put the pres- And right from day one worked on in practice sure on and never let off I told our guys that the over the course of the for the rest of the game. best offense is when you last week,” he said. By the time the first can score quickly and we The ACS Junior boys half was over, the game’s did that,” Petrella said. team looks good and be fate was already sealed The second half saw tough competition in with Assumption up much of the same story the league, and Petrella for the Lions. Great de- echoes that when he Daelon Smith has been fense and constant scor- said, “I expect us to com- a valuable piece for ing leading to a 94-24 pete with the best in the Lions on offence victory for Assumption, Brantford and hopefully and Defense. with big contributions good things happen in (Photo by Josh Giles) from Six Nations players the end.” Meet the 99ers lockdown defenseman By Josh Giles seman that has been a big the competitiveness. I Sports Writer help is Graeson Martin. like the fast and rough BRANTFORD - The im- Martin is from the Six hockey,” he said. And this pressive Brantford 99ers Nations and is playing is backed up by his coach. Peewee A team has had his first season with the McIntosh said, “His style a terrific season so far. 99ers team, and has fit in is defensive he loves to With a record of 28-6-2 really well with the team. battle and shuts the other they’ve been one of the McIntosh said, “I was team down.” most competitive teams very impressed with him Whatever the case in the league this year. Al- from tryouts. He’s a real when watching Martin Graeson Martin’s ready winning 3 tourna- competitor and competes play, he looks like Brandon practicing his stick ments thus far, and being battles hard for every- Montour on defense, con- handling so he can ready to compete in more. thing and usually comes stantly causing problems continue to frustrate The teamwork has out on top. That’s what for the opposing team. opposing offenses. been impressive for the impressed me the most There’s no better way to (Photo by Josh Giles) 99ers behind head coach about him.” describe him quite better Dean McIntosh. But credit Martin himself admits than how McIntosh put doesn’t go to just McIn- to enjoying this level of it, “He’s a good package tosh alone, it also goes to hockey that he’s play- of everything rolled into the players. And one defen- ing in as well, “I like one.” i Sports / Tehontkahri’tsherón:nis I I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TsIOTHórHa / deceMber 18, 2019 I PAGE 11 I OMSK Teachers win first Teachers vs Students game

By Josh Giles especially with a lot of started as a back and forth Writer them playing minor league battle and the students SIX NATIONS - The hockey regularly with the tried to keep up, but it was Oliver M. Smith Kawen- Six Nations. Anderson too much for them to over- ni:io (OMSK) Elementary said, “I know the students come. School saw its first ever will want to beat us pretty Even if the game didn’t Students vs Teachers badly, and I know some of go in the students’ favour, hockey game played. But the staff were dusting their it was a good for commu- the fun didn’t just apply pads off. I know one of my nity building. “It’s good to the OMSK students. staff members said he put to make that connection The game saw the likes of his pads underneath the with school and coaching parents, local coaches and porch about 15 years ago, and community, a lot of even some former students and when he went back the students here played get involved in the game. to get them they weren’t for me and it’s just good to Before the game there there. So unfortunately, make those connections,”

OMSK Teacher James Martin (left) and Principal Travis Martin (right) showed very good teamwork and chemistry against the student’s team. (Photo by Josh Giles)

OMSK Student Jacob Hill performed very well stick handling around teachers and parents. (Photo by Josh Giles) was a competitive spirit he has to sit out, and Anderson said. Knowing around the school accord- we’re down a man but we better than most, he is ing to OMSK Principal will see how it goes,” So not only the Principal of Travis Anderson, “They clearly the teachers team OMSK, but the coach for (the teachers) started doesn’t quite get the same the Six Nations Atom Rep some back and forth chat- luxury as the students to team. ter between the students play regularly. Whatever the outcome, and kids involved. But it The fact that they it was fun for students, should be a fun game.” haven’t played in years teachers, and parents alike With a lot of these stu- didn’t stop the teacher’s to enjoy time with each dents ready to beat their team as they won 18-11 other in one of the most teachers and parents, against the students. It fun sports in the world. I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TsIOTHórHa / deceMber 18, 2019 I PAGE 12 i Sports / Tehontkahri’tsherón:nisI I Dewey Jacobs Inducted into Canadian Lacrosse Hall of Fame By Josh Giles victories as a co-captain speech was that it was Sports Writer for the Six Nations Chiefs. such an honour getting to SIX NATIONS- The He also won the Champi- follow (Gaylord) Powless,” Canadian Lacrosse Hall ons Cup in 1997 with the he said. of Fame has been graced Rochester Knighthawks, Getting inducted was with many talented ath- all while being an elite a huge honour for Jacobs, letes who represented scorer. and he understands the Canada, and Six Nations in Receiving the call in work that has to be put a variety of ways to make May, Jacobs told Turtle Is- in to achieve this. “You the game so amazing. land News, “It was really have so many kids start- A long list of Six Na- humbling news to receive. ing playing at a young tions players and coaches It’s just amazing know- age. You start playing in inducted into the Hall of ing you get to go in with your backyard and then go Fame got a little bit lon- some of the greats.” from Junior to Senior. And ger when Duane “Dewey” But not just the best of if you’re lucky enough, (Submitted Photo) Jacobs became the latest the best in Canadian La- you make it to the pros,” where he came from and for (Six Nations) Minor ing company and will be member this year. crosse, he also joins elite Jacobs said. And the Hall knows he couldn’t have Lacrosse and for all of my remembered as one of the Jacobs has had a pres- company for Six Nations of Fame saw all the effort done this on his own. He coaches who helped me best, cementing his place tigious career enjoying Lacrosse. “One of the that he put into his career. said, “None of this would along the way.” in Canadian Lacrosse Hall three straight Mann Cup things I said during my But Jacobs doesn’t forget be possible if it wasn’t Jacobs has joined amaz- of Fame sport’s history. NLL Boasting plenty of Six Nations talent of local players in Adam a splash for the Riptide. 2014. And his talent and Bomberry and Doug Jam- Longboat is also a rookie impact is emphasized ieson. Bomberry is a tal- for New York who was even more by team coach ented defenseman play- taken number 47 overall Mike Accursi, “I think ing his fifth season in the in this year’s draft. having a guy like Cody, NLL but his third in New And last but certainly who is a role model for England. Jamieson is a not least is another new many young Indigenous goalie who saw his first expansion team, the Hal- players will only help the full season of action last ifax Thunderbirds. Who transition of young stars year. Repaying the op- not only have two Six like (Nonkon) Thompson portunity, he has a career Nation players in Cody and (Clay) Scanlon make high save percentage of Jamieson and Warren Hill, the transition. .784 last season. but also have Curt Styres Hill is the goalie for The New York Riptide as the Owner and Gen- Halifax and led the league is one of the new expan- eral Manager of the team. last year with an .810 save sion teams and already Jamieson is a veteran percentage making him Warren Hill goalie for Halifax Thunderbirds. (Submitted Photo) have a couple of Six Na- in the league. Entering one of, if not the best, goalie in the NLL coming By Josh Giles he will be a key piece. into this season. Sports Writer The Buffalo Bandits And with Halifax un- With the NLL season also host another Pow- der the leadership of already underway there less. Quinn Powless is a the only Six Nations are teams that are show- forward from Ohsweken owner, Curt Styres, Ac- casing some amazing Six and has played four of cursi thinks that it gives Nations talent that fills his seven seasons with the team a leg up to find the NLL. Rochester. This will be amazing talent, “Having Starting with the To- his first season in Buffalo. Curt Styres as an Owner ronto Rock is fan favour- The Georgia Swarm are and General Manager pro- ite Johnny Powless, a playing host to a lot of vides us with an advan- journeyman throughout Indigenous talent such tage to scout and draft the league racking up as the Thompson Broth- some of the best young a lot of awards. He was ers. They showcase an- Indigenous talents in the named to the All-Rookie other pair of players in country. He has watched Team and won the NLL Randy Staats and Brendan them grow and develop Sportsmanship award Bomberry. Bomberry had Johnny Powless with the Toronto Rock. (Submitted Photo) from a young age and of- in 2012 Following that a strong rookie year, help- ten times may go unno- ing his fifth year in the he played a key part in ing himself to be named tions players on their his tenth season and is ticed. season. Last year he per- helping the Rochester to the 2019 All-Rookie team in Tyson Bomberry the team captain. Rack- Six of the 13 teams in formed at a career best Knighthawks win three Team, and will be hoping and Travis Longboat. ing up award after award the NLL showcase some when he was credited for straight championships. to make a bigger impact This is Bomberry’s rookie for his team, he ranks as amazing Six Nations tal- 96 points on the year. Bouncing around the in his sophomore season. season in the NLL. Being one of the best in team ent that are sure to enter- The New England Black league, Powless found his Staats is a little bit more drafted number 10 over- history and is the NLL tain this season, so keep Wolves include a pair footing in Toronto where experienced and is enter- all, he is hoping to make MVP award winner from an eye out for them. I SPECIAL I I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TSIOTÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 I PAGE 13 I

TURTLE ISLAND NEWS GIFT GUIDE

Christmas Wishes I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TSIOTÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 I PAGE 14 I I SPECIAL I Turtle Island News Christmas Wishes

Saving the Bricks and the Stories from the Mohawk Residential School At the back of what was that more than 400,000 the Mohawk Institute Res- bricks need to be repaired idential School are a series at a cost of $5 per brick or of bricks with the names of around $2 million. Indigenous students who "It's a pretty hefty project attended the school carved but we don't want to just into them. Years of wear on re-brick the building, we these bricks has threatened want to preserve that ev- this part of the tragic story idence. So the bricks need of the school now known to be re-mortared and as the 'Mush Hole'. pinned." A recent social media cam- Black said that for survi- paign called Giving Tuesday vors like Geronimo Henry, raised enough money to re- these bricks have incredible place 3,285 bricks. significance. Marketing Coordinator at "I was walking around Woodland Cultural Cen- the building with Geron- tre Layla Black told Turtle imo the other day and he Island News that a recent was showing me all of his inspection has determined (continued on page 16)

• Art & Jewellery • Sculptures • Furniture

Great Gift Ideas for everyone on your list! 519.717.0872 Open Daily 8-7pm 2208 Chiefswood Rd. Ohsweken, ON I SPECIAL I I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TSIOTÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 I PAGE 15 I Turtle Island News Christmas Wishes I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TSIOTÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 I PAGE 16 I I SPECIAL I Turtle Island News Christmas Wishes

Saving the Bricks and the Stories from the Mohawk Residential School (continued from page 14) when the school was open to cover the massive cost so people can buy a brick is an event we hold the last fort, it was great to see so friend’s carvings and his so these names represent to preserve the original in the name of somebody Monday of every month many local organizations, friend’s names. He said an act of resiliency for the bricks. Black said that they else and share that gift all where a survivor tells their media, schools and busi- that a lot of these guys students." are extending the campaign holiday long." story. We told them about nesses and people on so- have passed away already Woodland has been work- into the holiday season. They also took part in our Giving Tuesday event cial media sharing it. It was but it's kind of like they're ing on a Gift a Brick cam- "Our Gift-a-Brick cam- Giving Tuesday on Decem- and they wanted to help a great collective effort." still here. He also said that paign at local schools and paign is going to extend ber 3rd, a global movement us." In just a single day Wood- this area was restricted businesses in an attempt throughout the holidays of giving and volunteering People were able to make land raised over $16,000 that takes place after Black a donation, share the which is enough to replace Friday. The Woodland Cul- campaign to raise aware- 3,285 bricks. Black said tural Centre set a goal of ness and make a pledge to that it was a huge accom- raising $5000 on Giving 'Do Good' which entered plishment but there's still Tuesday in order to replace Woodland into a draw work to be done. 1000 of the bricks. Black to win an extra $5,000. "The bricks we raised to- said that at a recent sur- Black said that thanks to day, while amazing, are vivor talk they got an early the overwhelming support really just scratching the test of what Giving Tuesday they more than reached service of what needs to is all about. their goal. happen." "An anonymous donor "We hit our 1000 brick For more information and has agreed to match brick- goal and with the anony- to donate to the campaign for-brick for what we raise mous donor we made over go to : https://woodland- on Tuesday. They were at $10,000 in one day, which culturalcentre.ca/the-cam- our Survivors Series, which is huge. It was a group ef- paign/ I SPECIAL I I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TSIOTÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 I PAGE 17 I I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TSIOTÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 I PAGE 18 I I SPECIAL I Turtle Island News Christmas Wishes I SPECIAL I I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TSIOTÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 I PAGE 19 I I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TSIOTÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 I PAGE 20 I I SPECIAL I I SPECIAL I I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TSIOTÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 I PAGE 21 I I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TSIOTÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 I PAGE 22 I I SPECIAL I Turtle Island News Christmas Wishes

A Victorian Christmas at Dundurn Castle By Donna Duric, Writer of Canada. And although his children lived in the mid- house at Christmas was just Christmas trees into the roy- decorate for Christmas, gar- The splendor and grandeur the outside gives no hint of 1800s and even though they starting to catch on in the al family. lands made from coniferous of Dundurn Castle is at its Victorian architecture, the were affluent, Christmas in 1840s and 50s, since Queen Presents at Christmas were trees were draped around the height at Christmas time. inside is a testament to what Victorian times looked very Victoria herself began put- introduced during the Victo- home. The 18,000 square foot Ital- an affluent Victorian lifestyle similar to Christmas today, ting a Christmas tree in her rian period, as well. Before One might expect a large ianate mansion in the lower looked like in the mid-1800s. which is the time period home, and of course, ev- that, it was simply a time of manse like Dundurn Castle city of Hamilton was built in The castle comes alive at where most of North Ameri- eryone wanted to copy the feasting on good food. Deco- to have a large, imposing tree 1835 by Sir Allan MacNab, Christmas. Guided tours ca’s Christmas traditions to- Queen. Her husband, Prince rating one’s home for Christ- in the main parlour but in the former premier of the take you back in time to see day came from. Albert, who was German, mas was introduced during keeping with tradition, Vic- pre-Confederation Province how MacNab, his wife and Having a tree inside one’s introduced the concept of the Victorian period. To (continued on page 23) I SPECIAL I I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TSIOTÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 I PAGE 23 I Turtle Island News Christmas Wishes

The castle comes alive at Christmas (continued from page 22) box with numbers was A bucket of sand or water pay for an artificial tree. which was quite expensive possession of the childhood torians often placed a small placed on the table below was placed beside the tree in Children in wealthy homes at the time, while the low- diary of one of MacNab’s Christmas tree on a table, the tree and people picked a case it caught fire. would receive toys at Christ- er classes feasted on goose. daughters, Sophia, who be- with toys surrounding it be- number out of the box and Most people used real trees mas, whereas children in less The poorest folks ate rabbit gan writing in the journal in neath. got the gift on the tree with but the upper classes used affluent homes would receive as the centrepiece of their January so it’s assumed by Consumerism was starting the corresponding number. artificial trees, in order to fabric for a new dress or fruit Christmas meal. castle historians she got the to take off, so affluent peo- Since strings of electronic reduce the chance of vermin that isn’t in season. That’s It was also during the diary as a Christmas gift. The ple could afford to buy orna- lights didn’t exist at the time, infesting the home. Anyone where the tradition of eating 1840s that the famous sto- Duchess of Cornwall, Camil- ments instead of having to real candles were placed on who owned land could chop oranges at Christmas came ry of Scrooge was told in A la Parker-Bowles, is actually make them by hand. Trees the tree but were only lit up down a tree and use it as a from. Christmas Carol, by Charles a direct descendent of Sophia were decorated with orna- on Christmas morning, in or- Christmas tree in their home At dinnertime, wealthy Dickens. and is the museum patron of ments, gifts and candles. A der to reduce the risk of fires. but it was a sign of wealth to Victorians enjoyed turkey, Dundurn Castle is still in Dundurn Castle today. I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TSIOTÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 I PAGE 24 I I SPECIAL I Turtle Island News Christmas Wishes

Christmas Light Display in Simcoe a Magical Experience By Donna Duric over several acres of Wel- Christmas-themed holi- 2020. der and apple cider donuts around for 60 years. Writer lington Park in downtown day displays, turn the park There are horse-drawn for visitors to enjoy as they It started when local San- This Christmas, walk into Simcoe. into a magical celebration trolley rides throughout walk through the park to ta Claus Parade organizers a magical winter wonder- Hundreds of thousands of the Christmas season the park, a mini-Christmas enjoy the beautiful night became disillusioned with land with a magnificent of lights, draped over trees every night from 5:30 p.m. market, letters to Santa scenery. the bad weather that had light display stretching and bushes, along with 60 to 11:00 p.m. until Jan. 5, mailbox, hot chocolate, ci- The display has been impacted the parade for

several years in a row, so they decided to put some of the float displays in the park. “That was really the start of the panorama,” said Caitlin O’Neill, festival co- ordinator. It grew over the years with local volunteers put- ting their float displays in the park, with added lights, to become one of the most magnificent Christmas light displays in Ontario. There are over half a mil- lion light bulbs throughout the park, said O’Neill. Visitors come from all over southern Ontario and as far as Buffalo to view the panorama of lights. “We do get quite a bit of attention,” said O’Neill. “We were the first in On- tario to do a light display.” This year, the panorama added a Christmas market, with dozens of vendors open during the day selling their wares out of cozy lit- tle cabins in the park. “That’s been very suc- cessful,” said O’Neill. “Everybody comes to- gether to make it a fun ex- perience,” she said. “We’re wonderfully supported by lots of local businesses. It’s a wonderful thing to do with the family of all ages.” I SPECIAL I I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TSIOTÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 I PAGE 25 I Turtle Island News Christmas Wishes I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TSIOTÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 I PAGE 26 I I SPECIAL I Turtle Island News Christmas Wishes I SPECIAL I I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TSIOTÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 I PAGE 27 I I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TSIOTÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 I PAGE 28 I I SPECIAL I Turtle Island News Colouring Contest

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To enter: Name: 1. Colour the picture on original newspaper only (no photocopies allowed) Address: 2. Fill out the entry form and drop it by Turtle Island News (Monday-Fri- day, 9 am to 5pm) or mail us your entry: Turtle Island News, P.O. Box 329, Ohsweken, ON N0A 1M0 Telephone: 3. Contest open to all children under 12 years of age. One entry per child. Fast Food Age: Turtle Island News would like to thank the sponsors of this contest. 519-445-2972 Iroquois Village Centre Ohsweken Winners will be contacted by phone. DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES IS Friday, December 20, 2019 @ Noon I NATIONAL I I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TSIOTÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 I PAGE 29 I

Fraser River slide has ‘huge’ impact on community: Interior First Nation WILLIAMS LAKE, B.C.- er 140 First Nations that the said. Initial estimates show High on the Chilcotin pla- federal government has said The possible loss of salm- 75,000 cubic metres of ma- teau in British Columbia’s could also feel the effects. on, combined with a decline terial was deposited in the Interior, the chief of a local Members are concerned in moose populations be- river and most of it is still First Nation says the tradi- Ottawa isn’t doing enough cause of the 2017 wildfires, there. tional diet of its members to prevent further damage to means wild meats are scarce During a media briefing is threatened by a landslide stocks, and that the public in region. last week, the joint response more than 150 kilometre may not realize there is still “A lot of our people live team said water levels are away. a crisis because salmon runs way under what the Cana- beginning to drop on the Tl’etinqox Chief Joe Al- are finished for the season, dian society would consider river, presenting the only phonse, who also represents he said. the poverty line, but a lot opportunity to remove enor- five other local nations as The Department of Fisher- of our people are able to do mous amounts of rock block- tribal chairman of the Tsilh- ies and Oceans says Ottawa that because they can still ing salmon migration routes qot’in National Government, and its partners in provincial obtain a lot of their suste- before spring and summer says Fraser River tributaries and local First Nation gov- nance through hunting and runs arrive. once teeming with salmon ernments are indeed treating fishing,’’ he said. But officials warned there’s have shown paltry returns it as a “conservation crisis’’ Fishing also plays an im- a “high risk’’ they won’t be since the Big Bar landslide and restoring fish passage re- portant cultural role in the 60 days. has prompted a unique, tri- successful in rescuing the was discovered in June. mains a top priority. community, and five months It also asks the federal gov- lateral response between the threatened salmon before “On a good year, you can On Nov. 15, the Tsilhqot’in of the local calendar year are ernment to identify and fund federal, provincial and First the 2020 season. run across the river on the government sent a letter named for salmon or trout, a working group, including Nations governments. This On Tuesday, DFO said ur- backs of sockeye, that’s how to the office of the fisheries Alphonse said. representatives from affected includes the formation of a gent winter work to clear the thick our rivers are. And minister requesting an up- “It’s huge, huge, huge, the First Nations, to monitor the First Nations leadership pan- remaining barrier is well un- bright, bright, bright almost date on the department’s impact on my community,’’ efforts and develop contin- el, the statement says. derway, as well as hydrolog- fluorescent orange colour, progress, including monitor- he said. gency plans in response to Responders also maintain ical, geological and fisheries it’s an awesome sight,’’ he ing and contingency plans The Tsilhqot’in aren’t alone the crisis. a strong awareness of the monitoring to inform future said. should mitigation fail. in calling for more action. The Department of Fisher- slide’s impact, which could work and assess results. Alphonse estimated up to The letter asks for immedi- On Monday, the Union of ies and Oceans did not di- lead to the extinction of “Contingency plans are be- 170,000 sockeye returned ate updates when work bar- B.C. Indian Chiefs issued a rectly address the requests some salmon species, as well ing developed to ensure fu- to local tributaries this year riers are encountered, in the media release on behalf of for a state of emergency or as the deep cultural signifi- ture fish passage if this is re- where the annual average is interest of a “collective and the First Nations Leadership a contingency-plan working cance of salmon to First Na- quired. Our shared goal is to closer to one million. transparent approach.’’ Council asking the federal group in a statement Tues- tions, it says. fully restore the sustainable, While the slide occurred Stocks already faced chal- and provincial governments day. “We are doing everything natural fish passage at the in the traditional territory of lenges of historic overfish- to declare a state of emer- The Fraser River has not ex- possible to address this bar- site of the Big Bar landslide.’’ the High Bar and Stswecem’c ing and habitat loss and the gency, and for resources to perienced a landslide of this rier and to protect Pacific This report by The Canadi- Xgat’tem First Nations, the landslide could prove an be prioritized to remove the scale for more than 100 years salmon stocks,’’ the depart- an Press was first published Tsilhqot’in are among anoth- extirpating blow, Alphonse obstruction within the next and the government says it ment says. Dec. 10, 2019. Canada’s environment minister voices concern after protest at UN climate summit shut down OTTAWA—Canada’s en- the embassy in Madrid is vironment minister raised “actively engaged.” concern with United Na- In a post on social media, tions organizers after hear- Perry Bellegarde, Nation- ing that an Indigenous-led al Chief of the Assembly of protest was shut down by First Nations (AFN), said his security at the global climate organization is “aware that change conference in Madrid a group of Indigenous youth on Wednesday, his office (including many from Cana- confirmed. da) have arbitrarily been de- Sabrina Kim, press secre- tained for a peaceful protest” tary to Canada’s environ- at the conference. ment minister, Jonathan An official from the AFN Wilkinson, told the Toronto who witnessed the protest Star that Wilkinson wrote told the Star that security to the secretariat orga- detained the demonstrators nizing the conference and in a “courtyard” before re- “expressed concern” about moving their access badges. security’s handling of a pro- The official said the AFN is test that — according to the also not aware that any Ca- Assembly of First Nations — nadians were arrested. included Canadian delegates In her own post to social to the climate summit. media, Green MP Elizabeth Kim said the minister no- May — who is attending tified Global Affairs of the the conference with the Ca- incident but is not aware of nadian delegation — said a any Canadians that were ar- “peaceful” demonstration rested. for “climate action was François-Philippe Cham- pushed aside, with hundreds pagne, Canada’s foreign pulled from building. Youth I affairs minister, posted on met after were still shaken.” Twitter that “we are aware of this incident” and that I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS ITSIOTÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 I PAGE 30 I I NATIONAL I

Ethics law forbids ex-minister Philpott paid work for First Nation By Joan Bryden “cooling off period,” in ing signing onto a charter waiver. tions like her planned work and the challenges that ex- Canadian Press which they must not work committing the federal gov- Dion’s office declined to for NAN. ist in the Nishnawbe Aski OTTAWA-The federal eth- for, contract with or serve ernment to work with the comment. “I think it was probably Nation when it comes to ics law has put a crimp in on the board of directors of First Nation and the prov- “Ultimately, it was my thinking more of for-prof- access to quality health Jane Philpott’s plan to put any entity with which they ince on transforming the decision in the end to say, it corporations benefiting care and it’s her commit- her experience as a former had “direct and significant way health care is delivered because of my role as both from the participation or ment to follow through on minister of health and In- dealings” during their last in NAN communities. minister health and minis- the future work of a previ- the work we started when digenous services to work year as a minister. The Conflict of Interest ter of Indigenous services, ous office holder. So, this is she was a minister. for the benefit of a northern Philpott, who failed in that I had been acquainted a little bit different circum- “We’re not in this to make Ontario First Nation. her bid to win re-election enough with Nishnawbe stance.” any money. We’re just try- Just two weeks ago, Phil- as an Independent on Oct. Aski Nation in those roles NAN Grand Chief Alvin ing to fix some long-stand- pott announced that she 21, resigned from Prime that ... it would not be ap- Fiddler is also not convinced ing problems.” was taking on a new role as Minister Justin Trudeau’s propriate at this stage for that the cooling-off provi- Fiddler said NAN would special health adviser to the cabinet last March over the me to take any remunera- sion — aimed at ensuring have preferred to hire Phil- Nishnawbe Aski Nation, SNC-Lavalin affair. In the tion from them,” Philpott a former minister doesn’t pott’s services full time and which comprises 49 remote previous 12 months, she said in an interview. profit from, or help an out- will now have to develop a communities in northwest- had served as Indigenous Volunteering her services side entity to profit from, new work plan for her that ern Ontario services minister and, brief- Jane Philpott “allows me to continue to inside knowledge about will involve a more limited But now she says her ly, as president of the Trea- work with them and not to government operations and time commitment. work for NAN will have to sury Board. Act allows ethics commis- worry about the conflict is- policy — was meant to ap- This report by The Canadi- be strictly voluntary. Prior to that, she also sioner Mario Dion to waive sue.” ply in a case like this. an Press was first published That’s because her new served as Trudeau’s health or shorten a former minis- Philpott said she’s not “She was never planning Dec. 12, 2019. job ran afoul of the Conflict minister. ter’s cooling off period if he sure the cooling off period, to profit from this venture,” of Interest Act, which stip- Throughout her time as a deems it to be in the public imposed with the creation he said in an interview. ulates that former ministers minister, she had extensive interest but Philpott says of the Act in 2006, was “I think it’s just recogniz- must adhere to a two-year dealings with NAN, includ- he refused her request for a intended to apply in situa- ing the severe conditions Changes Coming to Gas Card Program The Ontario Gas Card is- favour of a return to using cept Ontario Gas Cards un- Certificate of Indian Status parent’s Status Card. If will use an exemption cer- sued to First Nations peo- Status Cards to purchase til January 31st 2020. Card or Secure Certificate of more than 200 litres of gas tificate to purchase tax-ex- ple will be discontinued tax-exempt gasoline. Re- First Nations band mem- Indian Status Card to pur- per day or large volumes of empt gas instead of the as of January 1st, 2020 in tailers will continue to ac- bers can use their Federal chase gas from authorized gas purchased in short time Ontario Gas Card. These on-reserve retailers. For through separate purchas- certificates will come from those who have applied to es, the gas retailer will ask the Ministry in the mail receive as Status Card from for your phone number. The before January 1st. Each the federal government, the Ministry of Finances will exemption certificate con- Temporary Confirmation of use this information ton tains a unique identifica- Registration Document is- contact owner of the Status tion number for each vehi- sued can be used until they Card to verify these pur- cle and authorized driver, receive their Status Card. chases. Anyone intending for bands requiring more Any version of Status Card to purchase high volumes identification numbers they can be used to purchase of gasoline on a regular ba- can request them from the tax-exempt gas including sis can contact the Ministry Ministry of Finance. those without a renewal of finance at 1-866-ONT- The Ministry of Finance date. TAXS (6688297) or at com- said that the new policy Children under 16 years [email protected] to will reduce the red tape for of age to purchase tax-ex- inform the Ministry. First Nation individuals and empt gas for vehicles like Band Councils, Trib- retailers. snowmobiles and ATV’s al Councils and other by using their own or their band-empowered entities I LOCAL / ORÌ:WASE NE KÈN:THOR I I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS ITSIOTÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 I PAGE 31 I

SNEC seeking $200,000 from farmer after promising to look at removing injunctions against Six Nations People By Justin Lethbridge and and the Haudenosaunee lowed for the elected coun- the HCCC. Consultation ported a Hydro One Six Niagara Reinforcement Line Lynda Powless Confederacy Chiefs Coun- cil to be reimbursed for its failed when the HCCC said Nations of the Grand River in the fall. Writers cil, with Hill caught in the legal costs in securing the it would not be relegated Development Corporation In all three injunctions The same night Six Na- middle. injunction. to a simple seat at a board. injunction against Six Na- John and Jane Doe of Six tions Elected Council Hill also was found in The dispute’s roots be- The HCCC said the lands tions people protesting the Nations were named. agreed to look at removing contempt of court for dis- gan in 2006 when the were to be returned under injunctions imposed on Six obeying Harper’s interlocu- Burtch lands, a jail farm the HCCC not a SNEC fed- Nations people the band tory injunction barring her that closed in 2004, were eral corporation. council agreed in a closed from going on the property among three parcels On- The elected council set up Cayuga Chief Cleveland General session to settle a $1 mil- to tend crops while injunc- tario offered to handover 9646035 Canada Ltd. and, lion damage suit against tion proceedings were on- to Six Nations during the in March 2017, the govern- (Deyotowehgoh) passes Six Nations Farmer Kris Hill going. 2006 Reclamation of lands ment transferred the land for $200,000 last Tuesday At the time Harper said at Caledonia known as the to the corporation. On Dec. 16, family, night. Hill “wilfully” breached four former Douglas Creek Es- Hill has been in court with friends and the com- Turtle Island News has parts of his order: failure to tates subdivision that had SNEC since 2017 when munity lost one of its learned SNEC was given vacate the land; continuing been under construction SNEC petitioned the court longest-serving tradi- the option by its lawyers to farm the property; failure on unceded Six Nations and received an injunction tional chiefs. Cayuga to either walk away from to remove equipment; and lands. against Hill and John and Chief Cleveland Gener- the suit, seek the lesser directing security to pre- The HCCC has said that it, Jane Doe of Six Nations. al (Deyotowehgoh) has amount of $200,000 or vent the authorities from and not the elected council, The Burtch lands have re- passed, after serving as continue the action seek- gaining access to the prop- was the principal negotiat- mained vacant since the in- Chief for 61 years with ing $1 million. erty. Hill told the media ing party for Six Nations. junction was served. the Haudenosaunee Con- The damages came af- she could not just watch The HCCC also said that Since then SNEC sought federacy Chiefs Council. ter SNEC sought and was crops die. it worked with Ontario to and received a second in- The funeral will be held granted an injunction The HCCC had earlier manage the Burtch lands, junction against Six Na- this Thursday at Sour against Kris Hill and John signed a three year lease monitoring their environ- tions people who protested Springs Longhouse at 11 and Jane Doe of Six Na- with Hill, allowing her to mental cleanup. It also reg- in front of the band council a.m. “He will be sadly tions over the controver- farm the Burtch lands in istered the property in its building for two months missed,” said HCCC Sec- sial farming of the Burtch the meantime the provin- land registry. Ontario still this past summer and sup- retary Leroy Hill. lands. cial government negotiat- had title to the land. Hill had been farming the ed a deal solely with the In 2015, the government lands on a three year lease elected council to turn the said it was ready to trans- from the Haudenosaunee property, the HCCC had fer the Burtch lands and Confederacy Chiefs Coun- negotiated to be returned wanted to talk with both cil when SNEC threatened to Six Nations. Ontario the HCCC and the elected an injunction if she did not placed the lands into a council. Ontario wanted stop working the land. corporation set up by the the lands placed into a fed- The settlement came after band council until they can eral corporation under the Superior Court Justice John be formally added to the SNEC that would be over- Harper said he would ac- reserve. seen by a board with rep- cept a settlement. SNEC’s The settlement also al- resentation from SNEC and legal team said at the time the amount would have to be “substantial” to resolve the matter. Harper had granted an injunction to Six Nations elected council and the numbered company it cre- ated to oversee the Burtch lands, to evict Hill, her equipment and employ- ees from the Burtch lands that had been returned to Six Nations as part of an agreement made during the 2006 federal and pro- vincial negotiations led by the Haudenosaunee Con- federacy Chiefs Council. The HCCC had granted Hill a three year lease to farm the land. The Burtch lands became the subject of a dispute between the SNEC I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TSIOTHÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 I PAGE 32 I I CAR CARE I

Winter road safety starts with the right equipment (NC) Winter can be are designed to be driv- ed by consumer special- one of the most unpre- en and perform well in ized reports as among dictable seasons. Some a large range of condi- the best in its category. regions receive the blast tions, they may not be It provides ultimate win- of cold and snow as early sufficient to handle se- ter confidence and safety as October, while oth- vere winter conditions of over many kilometres. ers may not receive any heavy ice or snow. Fur- The best traction possi- snow at all. Despite this, ther, when the tempera- ble is what you are look- there are a few things all tures approach freezing, ing for from your tires, drivers should be looking the rubber in all-sea- and well-maintained out for each winter to son tires stiffen, making ones are integral to road keep safety and perfor- them less effective,” says safety during the winter. mance at its peak. Carl Nadeau, profession- “Air pressure is a good This starts with ensur- al race car driver and Mi- place to start, and you ing you have the right chelin driving expert. should be checking your equipment. Even if you’re Winter tires, however, tires at least monthly in in one of those regions are made of a specific cold weather,” recom- that may not be prone to rubber compound that mends Nadeau. “The severe snow or any snow allows them to remain reason is simple – when at all, if the temperature flexible in cold weath- the temperature drops, is consistently approach- er. Nadeau suggests the your tires’ air pressure to the pavement where is only half the battle. condition, so you can ing freezing, then winter Michelin X-ICE Xi3 win- does too. And a well-in- the tire can get better Before taking the road, get safely to your desti- tires are a must. ter tire, which year after flated, narrower tire can traction.” make sure that your car nation. “While all-season tires year continues to be rat- bite through snow down The right equipment and tires are in perfect www.newscanada.com I CAR CARE I I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TSIOTHÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 I PAGE 33 I

Hit the road with safety and reliability (NC) Whether you em- year, must be installed tires.” ant to note how you is why he urges drivers brace winter with week- by December 1st. Nadeau also advises drive. Nadeau stresses to remain calm, avoid end trips to the slopes, “Contrary to popular looking for the “Three- the importance of the sudden braking and al- driving the little ones to belief, all-season tires Peak Mountain Snow- proper driving position ways look around slowly hockey practice or visit- don’t provide the per- flake” on the sidewall of with both wrists at from left to right, using ing relatives over the hol- formance that winter the tire, which confirms the top of the steering peripheral vision to help idays, there’s one thing road conditions require,” the tire passed a specif- wheel, a slight bend in prepare for what’s down to prioritize this season says Nadeau. “Winter ic snow traction perfor- your elbows with your the road. – and that’s commuting tires are made of a rub- mance test set by the knees slightly bent while www.newscanada.com safely and securely. ber compound, allowing Tire and Rubber Associ- pressing the gas.

Driving smoothly, them to remain flexi- ation of Canada. Even the most experi- staying alert and look- ble in cold weather and In addition to having enced drivers can find ing ahead are a few of provide better grip and the proper driving equip- themselves stressed be- many driving tips that traction than all-season ment, it’s also import- hind the wheel, which will help you handle the winter season with ease. Carl Nadeau, pro- fessional race car driv- er and Michelin driving expert notes that the first step to conquering those harsh winter roads is equipping your vehicle with four winter tires like the Michelin X-Ice Xi3, to be installed once the temperature approaches freezing. While all prov- inces recommend winter tires, they are mandatory in Quebec and, new this I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TSIOTHÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 I PAGE 34 I I CAR CARE I I CLASSIFIED I I TURTLE ISLAND NEWS I TSIOTÓRHA / DECEMBER 18, 2019 I PAGE 35 I

Reduce. Reuse. Turtle Island News Classified Recycle Show off your new baby this year! Lets look after Mother Earth CLASSIFIED Share your pride! OBITUARY EVENT CLASSIFIED DEADLINE IS 12:00 P.M. TUESDAY MARTIN: Hubert “Gil” Lorne Roast Beef Supper Benefit Mohawk June 15, 1938 - December for Mina Key Trading TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD: 16, 2019 Cayuga Snipe Clanmother P: 519-445-0868 F: 519-445-0865 At St. Joseph’s Hospital, Saturday, December 28, Post Hamilton on Monday, Decem- 2019 [email protected] ber 16, 2019 at the age of 3 pm until sold out 81 years. husband of Essie Cayuga Longhouse GIFTS & CRAFTS “Jamieson” Martin, father of Adults $12 FOR EVERY Terry & Margaret, Tracey & Children $8 (10 and under) SEASON. Eliana, Carla & Wes, and Kim Supper includes: & the late Richard, grandfa- Roast Beef, Mashed 2208 Chiefswood ther of Kayla, Alyssa, Damon, Potatoes, Vegetables, Dinner Rd., Ohsweken, ON Aurora, Layla, Tandy & Derek, Roll, Drink and Dessert 519-445-0868 Marty & Jessica, Sibby & Raffle draw and 50/50 draw Mike, Katie & Dave and sev- will also take place Open every day: eral great-grandchildren, and WANTED 8am-7pm great great grandchildren, Special Event Days: brother of Eva & Lou, Ruby, Quota’s wanted please call Loma & Eddie, Gene & Judy, 519-445-0868 8am-11pm Allan, Tom, & the late Virgin- ia, Cap, Wilma, & Tom. Gil was a proud member of the US MARINES, he served as the Sergeant at Arms for the Six Nations Veterans Associ- ation & Royal Canadian Le- gion 164 Colour Parties for many years. Resting at the Styres Funeral Home, 1798 4th Line Rd. Ohsweken after 7pm Wednesday where Fu- neral Service will be held on Friday, December 20, 2019 at 11am. Cremation with burial of cremated remains at St. Pe- ters Cemetery at a later date. www.rhbanderson.com

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