Volume 20 Issue 5 Published monthly by the Union of Ontario Indians - Anishinabek Nation Single Copy: $2.00 June 2008 IN THE NEWS Anishinabek Nation will decide who are citizens By Michael Purvis citizenship. Grand Council Chief John Sault Star The law proposes to do Beaucage said it’s time First There’s something troubling to several things, chief among them Nations start looking at citizenship Wayne Beaver about the high rate throwing out in the same way as nations like at which Alderville First Nation the concept Canada do. members are marrying people of status and “Right now we somewhat from outside the community. replacing buy into the aspect of status with It’s not the fact that youth are it with the Indian Act: Our membership looking to outsiders for mates citizenship clerks fi ll in the federal government that raises alarm bells — that’s akin to that forms and send them in to Ottawa expected, Beaver said, in a of the world’s and people get entered into a list,” community of just 300 people. sovereign Wayne Beaver said Beaucage. The problem is, if what the nations. “Well, once we have our studies say is true, Alderville “Under the present defi nition, citizenship law, we’re not going faces a future without any status the grandchildren of women such to do that; we’re not going to fi ll Indians as long as the federal as me, who marry non-Indians, those forms in and send them in Barack Black Eagle government’s defi nition of Indian will lose their status,” said to Ottawa.” MISSOULA, Mt.– Democratic party presidential candidate Barack status continues to hold sway, he Corbiere-Lavell. How that affects the Obama was adopted into the Crow Nation during his visit to a said. The Anishinabek Nation’s relationship between First Nations Montana Reservation. Obama was adopted by the Black Eagle “The government has always solution is a law that will determine and the federal government is family, and given a Crow – or Apsaalooke – name that translates used status to control our numbers, citizenship based on the lineage of “more their problem than ours,” as “That Person Who Goes Throughout Our Land and Tries to Help and that’s not conjecture, that’s at least one grandparent. said Beaucage. People.” Crow Tribal Chairman Carl Venne told the Illinois Senator:. just history,” said Beaver, a band “Instead of pouring billions of dollars into Iraq and quadrupling councillor for Alderville, just foreign aid to Africa, we need to spend money taking care of our south of Peterborough, Ont. needs at home, especially the forgotten fi rst Americans.” The Anishinabek Nation says many, if not all, First Nations face a similar dwindling population It’s Chippewas of Rama again problem due to an amendment to ORILLIA – The Chippewas of Rama have voted to drop the name the Indian Act in 1985 that was Mnjikaning and return to the name the band acquired in the 1800s meant to remove discrimination when it moved to Rama Township from Orillia. against women, but which created Mnjikaning, which means fi sh fence in Ojibwe, was adopted as the a two-generation status cut-off band’s offi cial name in the mid-1990s. Supporters of the change to for native people who marry non- Mnjikaning wanted to link the native community on Lake Couchi- natives. ching to the historic fi sh weirs at The Atherley Narrows, where The Anishinabek Nation stakes have been found dating back 4,500 years. took another step in its effort to French explorer Samuel de Champlain observed the Huron net- change that situation. It named a ting fi sh at the weirs in 1615. Whether the Chippewa, who moved commissioner who will work to into the area after the Huron nation crumbled, used the weirs in the create a citizenship law for its 42 same way is a matter of debate. member First Nations. In a referendum 162 band members voted for Chippewas of Jeannette Corbiere-Lavell, Rama,Chippewas of Rama Mnjikaning received 82 votes, and who led a Supreme Court Chippewas of Mnjikaning received just 24. challenge in the 1970s against the status system when it stripped Anishinabek News her of membership in her own community, will hold a series of now available online consultations aimed at creating www.anishinabek.ca consensus on how the Anishinabek Grand Council Chief John Beaucage with Citizenship Commissioner Nation will take control of its own Jeannette Corbiere-Lavell. More citizenship stories on Pages 10-11. Time will prove apology’s sincerity: Beaucage CHIPPEWAS OF RAMA “Our fi rst thoughts today are was sincere when our citizens Strahl with a proposal to fund – Canada needs to demonstrate for our Elders,” said Beaucage. have access to the same homes, a language strategy that would the sincerity of its apology for “Many of them have suffered life- jobs, education and health care as include the establishment of a the legacy of Indian Residential long physical and emotional pain all Canadians,” said Beaucage. new immersion language institute Schools by including First Nations because of their residential school The Grand Council Chief said that would help undo the loss of people in the country’s future. experiences.” the Prime Minister’s apology language experienced by most Anishinabek Nation Grand “We are so proud that many sounded genuine and he was of the 80,000 residential school Council Chief John Beaucage Anishinabek lived long enough looking forward to upcoming survivors. joined thousands of Canadians to hear Canada’s apology to them. bilateral discussions about “The devastating loss of who watched Stephen Harper’s But the true test of Mr. Harper’s Anishinabek Nation priorities. language and culture suffered 3,600-word apology on June words will be his government’s Following the upcoming by First Nations people is one of 11, to First Nation, Metis and actions to help our children have a Anishinabek Nation Grand the most tragic and long-lasting Inuit people for what the Prime better future than their parents and Council Assembly in Whitefi sh effects of the Indian residential National Chief Phil Fontaine Minister called “a sad chapter in grandparents.” River FN, Beaucage will present school system,” said Grand responds to the Prime Minister’s our history”. “We will know the apology Indian Affairs Minister Chuck Council Chief Beaucage. apology on June 11. Page 2 Anishinabek News June 2008 Eshki-bmaadzijig/Youth Boot camp recruiting By Mekwan Tulpin SAULT STE MARIE – On July 7-9 this summer, Turtle Concepts youth empowerment program will be hosting their 3rd Annual Boot Camp. “General”David Jones assures parents that his summer staff will again stimulate children’s minds and help develop skills in the areas of leadership, teamwork, and overall fun. “Enlisted kids” participate in tug-of-war, fear factor foods, scavenger hunts and trust-building activities and individuals who demonstrate outstanding leadership, spirit and improvements will be receiving prizes donated by local businesses. Each participant will be guaranteed a certifi cate for surviving three days of the summer boot camp. The number of participants undertaken this year will be a maximum 60 (30 Junior: Ages 6-12, 30 Senior: Ages 13-18). To register or receive more information, contact Turtle Concepts at A junior platoon stands at attention for ‘General Jone’ during one of last year’s Turtle Concepts Summer (705) 945-6455. Boot Camps.

RBC 6x10 National Aboriginal Day Student producers Christian Island citizens Josh McGregor, Hillary Smith, Glenn Copegog and Brent King attended a CTV Aboriginal Youth Communication Camp in Sudbury May 13th and collaborated with 16 other Native youth in writing, producing and acting in a television public service announcement. The commercial was to promote First Nations Day and the young producers created a theme and hiked into the bush with video and sound equipment to fi lm the commercial. Hillary Smith, an aspiring actress, said:“It was a lot of fun and a great opportunity because we learned more than what I expected. We got to see what goes on behind the scenes when they are fi lming a commercial for television and there is a lot more work involved than just acting.” – Photo by Sharon Weatherall AFN 4x4.5 Phil Fontaine June 2008 Anishinabek News Page 3 Anishinabek BRIEFS New at AEI My name is Jan McLeod. I’m so thrilled to have been hired OCF busy as the Offi ce Assistant for the M’CHIGEENG FN – These Anishinabek are busy times for The Ojibwe Educational Cultural Foundation. Institute. The24- I am a year-old member of the M’Chigeeng- Nipissing First based OCF Nation where was shortlisted I live with Jan McLeod for the Ontario my partner, Premier’s Doug Archer Award for signifi cant and the youngest of my three World War II Aboriginal servicewoman Marion Miller Hill receives her gift package, which included a fl eece children, 10-year-old Wylden. contribution to the arts by jacket with a WWII Aboriginal Women Veterans crest. an organization. The winner My eldest is Kerry Kaboni, will win $50,000 and the fi ve she is the mother of my three runners-up $ 2000 each. Women warriors fi nally honoured grandchildren. My second OCF has also received oldest is my son, Jamie a grant from the Ontario By Rick Garrick women to do whatever they want in the Canadian Tierney. Trillium Foundation to host THUNDER BAY – That was the message in the Forces,” says Eisan, a 33-year veteran with the I look forward to working the Anishinaabe Summer Art lyrics of a song by popular World War II singer Canadian Forces. “But they haven’t been honoured with you and to helping to Camp in Whitefi sh River First Vera Lynn recalled by 11 Aboriginal World War in the proper way. create a better future and Nation. II Canadian Forces servicewomen who were When Aboriginal veterans are honoured, the education for our nation and The OCF has also put out recognized for their contributions to the war effort Aboriginal women are left behind.” generations to come. a call for Anishinaabe artists at a June 5 reunion. Marion Miller Hill, from Six Nations, joined who want to exhibit works “This is an honouring that is fi nally taking the Canadian Forces in 1944 after enlisting the of art in the OCF gallery for a place,” says Lolehawk Laura Buker, the Aboriginal year before in Toronto at the age of 17 and served Aanii, Boozhoo, one month duration in the July- Lakehead University professor from Sto:lo Nation as a transport driver in Halifax after training at My name is Jessica Benson September period. in B.C.’s Fraser Valley who produced a fi lm about Woodstock, Ontario. and I am a summer student at the E-mail: [email protected] the women entitled “Trail Blazers - They Stood, Weighing only 113 pounds, Hill drove trucks, Anishinabek They Served.” jeeps, staff cars, station wagons and buses, changed Educational “Whenever we have gatherings, we always the tires, and did all the weekly servicing herself. Institute Wiky Rodeo honour the veterans in the front. Our Aboriginal “We would like Canadian society to know that (AEI). WIKWEMIKONG –Cowboys servicewomen have never had a ceremony.” we served,” Hill says. “There were Aboriginal I am a will be invading Manitoulin Buker produced the fi lm with help from Grace service women assigned to every place in the citizen of the Island’s largest Indian Poulin, writer of “Invisible Women - WWII service corps.” Chippewas community with the staging Aboriginal Servicewomen in Canada”, and former Hill recalls another Aboriginal service woman, of Rama Canadian Women’s Army Corps captain Isabelle with the nickname of Johnny Johnson, who she Mnjikaning of another Rodeo July 4-6 at Jessica Benson Thunderbird Park. Each 2-3 Mercier, and screened it twice during the reunion. often spent time with while off duty. First Nation hour show will feature men Poulin, Mercier and staff from the Ontario “She was a lot of fun,” Hill says. “We used to go like my father, but I grew up and women Native Women’s Association organized the reunion, to ball games together, hockey games, and dances.” in Whitefi sh Lake First Nation competing which was sponsored by Veteran Affairs and Hill still goes to reunions with some of the other where my mother is from. I in seven attended by over 300 people, including Canadian Aboriginal service women she has met since the am currently in the midst of events Forces Chief Petty Offi cer 2nd Class Debbie Eisan, war, but their numbers have fallen over the past few completing my Bachelor of –bareback a Batchewana First Nation band member who years. Arts Honours History degree bronc serves as the national Aboriginal recruiting advisor “There were 10 of us,” she says. “There were at Laurentian University, riding, in Halifax, Nova Scotia. only fi ve of us at the last reunion in May. Three have primarily focusing on Canadian steer “They have paved the way for Aboriginal passed away in the last two years.” First Nations history. wrestling, junior steer riding, team roping, barrel racing, saddle bronc riding, calf roping, and bull riding. General Inquiries may contact Louis G. Manitowabi at (705) 859- 3832 or Annette Peltier at (705) 859-1912 or e-mail Annette at annut@abordigital. ca http://rodeo.wikwemikong agriculturalgroup.ca. Medicine talk MISSISSAUGA FN – An Anishnaabeg traditional heal- ing workshop, “Returning to Medicinal Herbs” will be held July 25-26 at the Community Hall, 148 Village Road, Mis- sissauga First Nation. Lunch will be provided for partici- pants, who should bring hat, sunscreen, digging tools, and b bags for medicine plants. For George making last journey information contact facilita- George Lanouette, a friend and supporter of the Anishinabek Nation, has passed into the Spirit World in his 56th year. George served as tor: Ernestine McLeod, An- comptroller of the Union of Ontario Indians in the 1980s when the organization was based in Toronto, and was instrumental in helping create the ishnaabeg Healing Practitio- concept of the current UOI offi ce complex on Highway 17 west of North Bay. He later worked for the Anishinabek Nation Management Group ner: Phone: 705-356-0763, or Incorporated. E-mail: emcleodelladr@msn. -- Photo courtesy Jean LaRocque com Page 4 Anishinabek News June 2008 Maanda ndinendam /Opinion The Anishinabek News is a monthly publication of the Union of Ontario In- dians (UOI). Views expressed are not necessarily the opinion or political posi- tion of the UOI. No portion of this paper, including ad- vertisements, artwork, photos and edito- We need to start believing each other rial content may be reproduced without written permission of the Anishinabek News Editor or UOI Executive. I’m not sure if my grandfather Moses Marsden a better future. As a Supreme Court judge Readers are invited to submit let- ters, articles, and photos for publication. would qualify as one of the benefi ciaries of wisely observed in ruling on a historic land Please include your name, address and the Prime Minister’s June 11 apology. claim – we’re all here to stay. telephone number on all material sub- mitted. All submissions will be reviewed for publication based on priority of in- Our family never knew much about Listening to someone else’s perspective terest and edited for clarity of thought, taste, brevity and legal implications. Re- the southern Ontario “training” school he is an important element of trust, an muneration will be paid for submissions attended in the 1870’s, other than he ran away ingredient that has been in very short supply only if a written agreement with the Edi- tor is made prior to publication. from it before he completed Grade 3. It was in the relationship between First Peoples NOTE: All formal comments and one of those things that Indian families didn’t Maurice Switzer and others who came here to make a home complaints must be addressed to dwell on. for themselves. We need to start believing Editorial Board c/o Anishinabek News. each other – and believing in each other. Editor: Maurice Switzer If Grandpa had told his family about the During recent workshops with 250 North Assistant Editor: Marci Becking kind of experiences I’ve heard residential As for Grandpa Moses, nobody believed Coordinator: Priscilla Goulais Bay-area teachers, several – including one Contributors: Holly Broadhagen, school survivors talk about, I don’t know if they principal -- told me they had never known him when he insisted that he saved money Heather Campbell, Melissa Cooper, would have believed him. It’s almost beyond what a residential school was. This represents on gas by switching off the ignition when Helen Dahl, Rick Garrick, Christian comprehension that elected Parliamentarians an educational oversight comparable to driving down hills. Hebert, Roberta McEwen, Karen Pheasant, Chad Solomon, Richard and church leaders in a civilized society historians skipping over the Jewish Holocaust Wagamese, Shirley Williams would institutionalize child abuse. of World War II. But when I paid $85 to fi ll up my car last Editorial Board: Cathie Favreau week, I wondered if we should have paid PH: 705-497-9127 ~ 1-877-702-5200 On June 11 an Alberta First Nation leader People have interesting responses to attention FX: 705-497-9135 told a national television audience about WEB: www.anishinabek.ca learning that Canada has such skeletons in her E-MAIL: [email protected] teachers sticking pins in his father’s tongue closet. Some North Bay teachers wrote in their Maurice Switzer is a citizen of Alderville MAIL: P.O. Box 711, Nipissing First when he dared to speak his Native language. A evaluations that the First Nation perspectives First Nation. He serves as director of Nation, North Bay, ON, P1B 8J8 British Columbia man spoke in hushed tones on Canadian history amounted to “whining”. communications for the Union of Ontario to a radio interviewer about his wife and child It is no doubt troubling to discover that your Indians and editor of the Anishinabek fl eeing the violence that was his residential ancestors were complicit in systemic racism News. school legacy. and child abuse.

You can hear a pin drop when Elder Merle We try to assure Assance-Beadie shares with Anishinabek participants that they cross-cultural workshop participants some are not responsible, of the abusive treatment she endured at four nor should they feel residential schools. Her gentle words convey guilty about historic the sheer terror she must have felt as a young injustices. child being terrorized by teachers and clerics PUBLISHING CRITERIA for no apparent reason. “But, if it happens GOAL again,” we caution, “it To publish a quality newspaper and related publications designed to foster But what must be one of the hardest pills will be your fault.” pride and share knowledge about An- to swallow for many of the 80,000 survivors ishinabek current affairs, culture, goals, is the knowledge that so few Canadians and accomplishments. And surely that’s know anything about what Prime Minister the purpose of the OBJECTIVES Harper called one of the darkest chapters in national apology To provide information that refl ects the Creator’s four original gifts to the this country’s history. I recall Marlene Brant- process – to admit Anishinabek: Castellano – the co-director of research for that there has been Respect: To welcome diversity the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples a problem so we can and encourage a free exchange of – saying how troubled she was seeing opinions that may differ without being avoid it recurring. disagreeable. Fair and humourous university graduates not knowing anything Having a better comments are welcomed, but not more about Native issues than the ones she understanding of the ridicule or personal attacks. saw when she began her career as an educator past should help all Honesty: Debwewin – speaking the truth – is the cornerstone of our newspaper’s 30 years earlier. of us in Canada build content. Sharing: Providing opportunities for people from the four corners of the Anishinabek Nation to tell stories and record achievements, and to keep our citizens informed about activities of the Union of Ontario Indians. Strength: To give a voice to the vision of Teacher was an angel to bullied boy the Anishinabek Nation that celebrates our history, culture and language, There were four bullies in my Grade Five the way home, Mrs. Fricke had written in the promotes our land, treaty, and aboriginal class. They picked on me from the very fi rst space for the teacher’s comments, “Richard is rights, and supports the development of healthy and prosperous communities. day. One day my teacher, Mrs. Fricke, asked a very honorable boy.” I never forgot that. me to do a math problem on the board. As I stood there with my back toward the room, When my adopted parents read it at the they were grunting and talking like movie dinner table that night, the only comment they Advertising & News Deadlines Indians, and then an apple core hit me in the had was that she must have been referring to The current circulation of the Anishinabek News is 10,000 copies, with 9,000 mailed and 1,000 head. The whole class laughed. another kid. I never forgot that either. distributed at various events. Richard Wagamese Mrs. Fricke left school halfway through DEADLINE FOR JULY/AUGUST I remember picking it up and looking at it that year for health reasons, and I never saw my palm. Then, I put the eraser down on the her again. My marks tailed off sharply. Two Advertising Well, I read everything I could about Bookings: June 20 biggest bully’s desk. “I’m not afraid of you,” years later when Martin Luther King was was all I said. They laughed and catcalled Martin Luther King after that, and I became the gunned down in Memphis, I mourned the loss Final Art: July 10 best student I could for Mrs. Fricke. I did extra News when I walked back to my seat but they never – and I remembered Mrs. Fricke. bothered me again. work, I helped neaten the room, and I showed News submissions: June 20 her the stories and poems I was beginning to For more information or inquiries to the There are angels in this life. They arrive Anishinabek News related to advertising and After school, Mrs. Fricke handed me a write. My adopted home life was a shambles when you need them most, to encourage you, circulation issues please call our Toll-free picture of Martin Luther King. She said that and there was incredible friction and pain remind you that heaven is within you, as it number: 1-800-463-6408 he was a man of courage and a man of peace, there, but in my Grade Five classroom I felt always was, and always will be. and that what I had shown in class that day accepted, known and understood. exemplifi ed everything Reverend King stood Richard Wagamese is Ojibway from CANADA POST CUSTOMER for. Then she hugged me. I responded by getting A’s and B’s on my Wabassemoong First Nation in Northwestern #1905929 fi rst report card. When I read it on the bus on Ontario. AGREEMENT #0040011021 June 2008 Anishinabek News Page 5 Maanda ndinendam /Opinion

Treaties lack enabling laws We need to exercise our sovereignty – not just our status rights – but our sovereign rights and establish those rights as the Nations we are. We’ve been pushed off our land. There have been a lot of land grabs and a lot of theft and we haven’t got the compensation that we are entitled to for the land use that these people have taken from us without our permission or our consent. Many of the treaties that were signed after 1867 between the First Nations and the Government of Canada have not had the enabling legislation in order to provide legality to them. Under the terms of the British North America Act, Britain had to agree to the treaty before Canada had the right to sign it. So like the Williams Treaty of 1923, that is one issue that should not even be showing up in the courts. The most recent piece of enabling legislation was the amending formula to the Constitution of Canada which was going to allow the Canadian Government, along with the people of Canada, to be able to amend the Constitution in order that we could call it our own. This legislation had a sunset clause in it which provided for the enabling of the Constitutional changes that were hoped to be brought in by the Canadian Government; those people that were struggling to get it done had 15 years to get it done. They had from April 17th, 1982 the date that Queen Elizabeth the Second signed it on Parliament Hill to April 17th, 1997. The Meech Lake Accord and Charlottetown Accord each failed to obtain the necessary agreement between all the parties concerned in order to change the Constitution. Now we have to be aware that the First Nations People are Nations on to themselves and the Canadian Government can pass all the laws the want but unless they have the enabling legislations they are not legal laws. Airline clerk called him ‘drunk’ Letter to Wasaya Airways: light and will house a sacred fi re I was “drunk” when I did not Dan Whetung I am a faithful customer of in the Midewiwin lodge for four immediately come up to the Toronto Wasaya Airways and have never days and four nights. counter when she was ready to experienced any negative vibes There are many other serve me. Permits to trap and clear-cut before. tedious tasks in between before To my shock, the only First Nations people in many parts of Canada have legal Treaties I attend the Three Fires ceremonies are to begin. response I received from two which recognize their rights to hunt and fi sh in the areas described Midewiwin Society Ceremonies All this preparation work is phone calls to Wasaya Airways in their treaties (including what is now called ‘Crown Land’.) So, at least four times a year, so I arduous, but I do it because of the was that she was “young” and these days, people are issued “Registered Trap line licenses” by the must reserve and book my return love of the Spirit and the gift that “new to the position.” What government to trap in the areas governed by the Treaties. fl ights. There are separate times has been so readily and so freely kind of a response is that? Is it Simultaneously, the same government, will issue a cutting permit where I am asked to attend other given to me. When ceremonies a general assumption that since to a Forest Company to cut every tree in that person’s “Registered traditional gatherings and cultural are over, there is a lot of clean- I am Anishinawbe that I should Trap line Area”! events, often related or linked be stereotyped as a “drunken As if that wasn’t bad enough, in order to run a trap line, you need with the Three Fires Midewiwin Indian”? Is there a policy with to have cabins to stay in at different spots because it’s a large area Society, where I work with Wasaya Airways that discourages and you don’t want to freeze to death when you are out trapping the Anishinawbe youth, and these racist stereotypes? Or, who, on your Treaty territory. This is illegal if you don’t have a special my Anishinawbe family from in fact, does your hiring for this building permit -- even though it’s your Aboriginal Right under all across Turtle Island, often proud Aboriginal-run and owned Treaty to pursue a hunting, fi shing lifestyle in your Treatyarea! travelling to the Southwestern airways? In B.C. Elders told of how their trapping cabins were burned Ontario, Michigan, Minnesota, Sadly, I am probably not the down and destroyed by the Government. At Grassy Narrows First Wisconsin and Manitoba, fi rst Anishinawbe to hear this Nation in Ontario, a trapper friend of mine is in the middle of a court educating them with the little kind of abuse or slur. When battle because she built a trapper’s cabin on her traditional territory Anishinawbemowin language discriminatory remarks are made, recognized in Treaty #3. that I have. it can affect those around. You This is a situation faced by First Nations people coast-to-coast My community, Poplar Hill should be glad that the airport whether they have a Treaty or not. People should unite on this First Nation, has recognized me up work involved as well. Most was not full that morning. issue. as an outstanding Anishinawbe of my Midewiwin family travel Suppose Anishinawbe children John H.W. Hummel man, knowing my educational great distances, so they must were present; the overall impact Toronto achievements and my positive leave in order to get to work could be devastating, causing work that I do for the Anishinawbe that Monday morning. Many of our Anishinawbe youth, our nation. I have graduated from my Midewiwin family do stay Anishinawbe future, be ashamed This land is our land high school and from university behind and offer their assistance of who they are. Suppose it was with a degree. My community with any of the clean-up work an Anishinawbe elder with her I am very happy to know that we are going back to our own knows that I refrain from alcohol until they are unable to, due to grandchildren; what impact does language (Hip Hip). Me I’m fl uent in that language. and do not take any type of the love they receive from this it have on both of them? One I know what you would call all animals we have here on this narcotics. I do not smoke. good Anishinawbe way of life, discriminatory remark, made by land. This land is our land. When I do attend the but their willingness is always your Wasaya employee, does not Do you know God? Three Fires Midewiwin appreciated. have a place anywhere! He told us he had put other people on the other land, and he put Society ceremonies, I have an I stay as long as I can as well. I demand a letter of reprimand us here on this land. You can do what you want on this one. When understanding of what “work” My Monday fl ight with Wasaya for the employee who works at our food moves we move so we can eat. Every time our food moves means. There is a lot of Airways keeps me preoccupied the Red Lake Wasaya Airways we move. So these people when they came here to our land, they preparation before ceremonies and I have to schedule myself counter and that Wasaya look into said it was not our land and killed most of it off and put us on the are to take place. I often leave around that, in order to be on time having all their employees take so-called Reserve for $4 a year. my community the weekend with my scheduled fl ight. some cultural sensitivity training God said they are coming now to take the broom and sweep them before ceremonies do begin, in Burnt from being in the programs. off. What did we do? They had nothing to eat – they were starving. order to help out my Midewiwin sun throughout the week, We feed them, what they call Thanksgiving Day – the damn DPs! family with many of the hands-on and physically tired, I was Hubert Tabobondung work. I saw, chop and haul wood quite shocked when one of Mario Wassaykeesic Wasauksing FN for the Midewiwin lodge that will your employees asked me if Poplar Hill First Nation Page 6 Anishinabek News June 2008 Lands and Resources Building fi sheries capacity ROCKY BAY FN – The Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre (A/OFRC) takes Charles Hardy from capacity building very seriously. Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging With workers from different Anishinaabek participated in the regions of the Anishinabek 2007 sturgeon project for Pic Nation now employed as interns, River First Nation. their training is key to the success of the North Bay-based centre, Charles began working as well as that of the interns periodically for the A/OFRC themselves. in 2001, when he was just 18, In April, Charles Hardy and later acquired fi sheries Award winners James Brophy and Margaret Keith with members of Aamjiwnaang First Nation Health and from Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging technician status. His internship Environment Committee. From left: Donna Adams, Sharilyn Johnston, James Brophy, Margaret Keith, Anishinaabek (Rocky Bay First began in April of 2007, and in Ada Lockridge, Courtney Jackson, Lareina Rising (holding Xander). Other community members not Nation) completed his training September he became a full available for the photo are Charlie Rogers, Wilson Plain, Vicky Ware and Ted Rogers. for a Master Limited Certifi cate time A/OFRC Fisheries Habitat of Competency, a major part Technican. of the requirement to become a “Charles follows Captain Aamjiwnaang allies win award ship’s captain for vessels up to Harold Michon and Frank Hardy TORONTO – Two important allies of the comes only from researchers,” says Keith. “It’s a 60 tons. Jr. – also from Rocky Bay – as Aamjiwnaang First Nation Health and Environment waste not to use the experience of ordinary people.” Hardy completed the 80- the third A/OFRC member to Committee took home Gold from the June 2nd They then showed the committee how to plot the hour course through Georgian complete this training,” says Canadian Environment Awards. community’s health problems on life-sized maps of College at Owen Sound and is A/OFRC General Manager Ed Jim Brophy and Margaret Keith, community the human body. now qualifi ed to pilot the A/ Desson. “We are very proud of health advocates from Windsor, were presented “The most alarming fi nding in the analysis was OFRC fi sheries research tug. In this accomplishment, as very the Gold Award for Environmental Health, one the skewed birth trend,” says Brophy. “In recent addition, he holds an MED A3 few individuals in fi sheries of six categoriesrecognized in the seventh annual years, there were almost two girls born for every certifi cate for training in marine research hold this level of presentations. boy.” This “selective male mortality,” he believes, safety procedures. boating competency.” Near the shores of the St. Clair River in could be linked to the synthetic organic compounds southwestern Ontario, the First Nations community known as endocrine disrupters that are present in of Aamjiwnaang has long cared for its sacred land, the releases from area chemical plants. First Nations fi gure in once part of the tribal domain of the Chippewa. But Ultimately, the Aamjiwnaang persuaded by 2003, the community had reached a breaking authorities to fi nd a new location for the ethanol point. The Aamjiwnaang Reserve, already bordered plant. “This data would never have come to light Great Lakes future by some 15 industrial plants in the heart of Sarnia’s without Aamjiwnaang’s commitment,” says By Rhonda Gagnon Chemical Valley, would soon have a new ethanol Brophy. “They believe that if the Earth is healthy, PETERBOROUGH – The International Association of Great Lakes facility as its neighbour. they will be too.” Research (IAGLR) conference – an event that allows scientists and In response, the Aamjiwnaang Health The Canadian Environment Awards celebrates researchers to present current research on water issues -- heard Mary and Environment Committee approached the the commitment of Canadians who are helping Deleary describe the work of the Anishinabek Women’s Water Com- renowned husband-and-wife team of Jim Brophy to protect, preserve and restore the country’s mission. and Margaret Keith, the executive director and environment. The evening was hosted by In addition to telling participants at Trent University about the occupational health coordinator, respectively, at the award-winning television broadcaster and well- advisory role the all-women commission plays on Great Lakes water Sarnia Branch of the Occupational Health Clinics known environmental champion Valerie Pringle. management, Deleary discussed the spiritual importance of water to for Ontario Workers Inc., to help them document Representatives from local, provincial and federal Anishinabek peoples, and shared some traditional knowledge about the community’s health issues. governments were on hand to congratulate the water concerning the Great Lakes. “They had a broad list of concerns,” recalls winners. Noella Jacko and John Manitowabi -- both from Wikiwemikong Brophy. “Sixty to 70 percent of the kids at The Community Awards is the fl agship Unceded Indian Reserve -- presented research and results from their daycare were on puffers, and there were lots of program of the Canadian Environment Awards inventory of species at risk. Their records of fl ora and fauna from developmental diffi culties. In the wider community, and honours individuals and groups of Canadians Wiky shorelines illustrates the importance of First Nation input on there were miscarriages and cancers.” chosen from more than 125 nominations submitted processes that impact the future of the Great Lakes Basin The couple’s fi rst step was to provide the by the Canadian public. Gold and Silver winners Aamjiwnaang committee with a much-needed in six categories of the Community Awards were interpretation of anenvironmental report announced. Gisèle Jacob, president of The Royal commissioned in the 1990s, which showed that the Canadian Geographical Society, and Graham Bojé, land and creek bed were heavily contaminated with vice-president of Shell Canada, lead corporate mercury and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), sponsor of the Canadian Environment Awards, among other chemicals. To make the case against presented the Gold and Silver recipients with prizes the ethanol plant, Brophy and Keith helped identify of $5,000 and $2,500, respectively, which they will existing areas of contamination. donate to the environmental cause of their choice. With their guidance, the committee collected All winners also received framed prizes expressly samples and had them tested and also documented designed for the Canadian Environment Awards by cases of deformed animals. Canada Post. Water walkers The scientists then employed their signature “The Canadian Environment Awards celebrates Lorraine Liberty led a group of women in a ceremonial walk along reporting method — a questionnaire that the exceptional Canadians who are deeply committed the shores of Lake Nipissing May 4 in Nipissing First Nation. Peter committee used to obtain the health histories of to protecting the environment,” says Rick Boychuk, Beaucage, staff carrier and Mike Couchie also walked alongside the close to half of the Aamjiwnaang population. Canadian Environment Awards panel chair and women. In 2007, Liberty walked the circumference of the lake. A feast, “There’s a prejudice in science that knowledge editor-in-chief of Canadian Geographic. teachings and songs followed this year’s event. -- Photo by Marci Becking STAFF mission

Jason Laronde Nadine Roach Barb Naveau Rhonda Gagnon Arnya Assance The mission of the Lands and Resources Director Forestry Coordinator Forestry Assistant Water Resources Policy Analyst AORMC Coordinator department is to foster a better quality of life [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] by ensuring access to natural resources in Ext. 2263 Ext. 2234 Ext. 2255 Ext. 2318 Ext. 2340 support of the goals, principles and values of the Anishinabek Nation. Union of Ontario Indians - Head Offi ce, P.O. Box 711, North Bay, ON, P1B 8J8, Ph: 705-497-9127 Toll: 1-877-702-5200 Web: www.anishinabek.ca June 2008 Anishinabek News Page 7

Intergovernmental Affairs MahngMahng LOONLOON Ontario invests in ‘new relationship’ TORONTO –Ontario Minister of Aboriginal Affairs Michael Bryant months. has announced an initial investment of $25 million over two years for “I view this initial investment of $25 million as only a beginning what is being described as a New Relationship Fund to support “First in terms of addressing the actual capacity needs that exist within our Nations and Metis communities to enhance their consultation capacity to communities. Clearly this amount of money falls far short” said Ontario participate in meaningful consultations with government and the private Regional Chief Angus Toulouse. sector on important land, resource and other development initiatives”. Regional Chief Toulouse expressed his belief that there is a general The other purpose of the new Fund involves supporting increased lack of understanding of what the true capacity needs of First Nations skills development and building business partnerships and is open to are within government and the general public, and said that First “Aboriginal individuals, organizations and First Nations and Metis Nations are opposed to the Fund being set up as a pan-aboriginal fund. communities”. He explained that the term “aboriginal” is very misleading, and is a term He indicated that the details will be worked out following used to encompass the three constitutionally recognized Indigenous consultations with the First Nations and the Metis over the upcoming groups in Canada Regional Chief Angus Toulouse Joint committee municipal

model Chief Isadore Day

By Kevin McSheffrey For the Standard ELLIOT LAKE – The Serpent River-Elliot Lake Joint Relations Committee (JRC) has been presented as a cooperative model to the organization that lobbies on behalf of 110 Northeastern Ontario municipalities. In separate presentations at Mayor Rick Hamilton May’s meeting of the Federation on, or face the cost of walking of Northern Ontario Municipalities backwards in time.” (FONOM) conference in Sault Ste. Chief Day said he left the Marie, Serpent River First Nation three-day conference feeling that Chief Isadore Day and Elliot Lake municipalities across Northern Mayor Rick Hamilton gave an Ontario realize it’s time to overview of the committee that was formalize processes with First struck last fall to address topics of Nations, noting that the goal of the mutual concern to the neighbouring joint committee with Elliot Lake Economic message North Shore communities. is “to solve issues before they Chief Day told delegates become serious problems.” The Hon. Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development addressed the Empire Club of about the problems First Nations In the past, First Nations were Canada on May 15, 2008. Grand Council Chief John Beaucage was a guest of honour at the head table. The have experienced in the past 150 rarely consulted or asked for input Minister’s message was meant to encourage industry and partners to increase First Nation participation in years dealing with three levels of into many things that directly business and development. According to Minister Strahl: “Increasing Aboriginal participation in the Canadian government. affected them and the land they economy is the most effective way to ensure that Aboriginal people and other Canadians enjoy the same “I am here with good news,” use. opportunities for success when it comes to education, housing, health care, social services and other key he said. “We can achieve success Now, Mayor Rick Hamilton ingredients of healthy and fulfi lling lives.” by meeting the bureaucracy of told FONOM delegates, “the JRC -- Photo By Greg Coleman, INAC jurisdictional ambiguity head-on allows us to directly and openly at the local level as it pertains to address Serpent River First Nation First Nation and municipal affairs. concerns over land use within Specifi c claims bill halfway home The JRC is an example as to how both municipal boundaries and By Eliza Montour law of the land. – April 28 to April 30, 2008 this can take place. traditional First Nation lands.” The House of Commons – Summer/Fall 2007 – bill - Clause-by-clause completed by “First Nations are becoming National Chief Phil Standing Committee on co-drafted by the Assembly of AANO. more agile and astute about the Fontaine praised the initiative, Aboriginal Affairs (AANO) has First Nations and the federal – May 5, 2008 – AANO reports to formalizing of the rights-based urging FONOM delegates to now tabled its report, including government. House. agenda at all levels of government strengthen their relationships two minor amendments of Bill C- – November 27, 2007 – – May 12 to 13, 2008 – House and industry sectors. Municipalities with neighbouring aboriginal 30, the Specifi c Claims Tribunal introduction and fi rst reading. debates and passes Bill C-30 for have much technical capacity and communities. Act. – December 4, 2007 – second third reading. administrative equity that can assist “Don’t ignore or dismiss After extensive debate Bill C-30 reading and debate. – May 13, 2008 – Bill C-30 in building stronger municipal - First Nation concerns when it is halfway to becoming law as – December 10, 2007 – second referred to Senate for fi rst First Nations relations. comes to regional development the House voted to have it pass reading and debate; referred to reading. “We are in very challenging and opportunities,” the Assembly of third reading on May 13, 2008 AANO. – May 15, 2008 – Second exciting times. We must stay tuned First Nations leader said. and referred it to the Senate – February 6, 2008 to April reading debate adjourned in the to the fact that we are two people in Leaving First Nations out of for review. After it passes third 16, 2008 – AANO meetings Senate, to resume on Tuesday, different vessels trying to achieve the process “usually ends in the reading in the upper chamber, commence with testimony from May 27, 2008. many of the same goals. We must news: a standoff, a confrontation,’ Bill C-30 will be proclaimed the interested parties. identify and meet challenges head- said the National Chief. STAFF mission

Allan Dokis Alicia McLeod Cheryl Recollet Melissa Stevens The Union of Ontario Indians Intergovernmental Director Treaty Research Coordinator Geospatial Project Manager Treaty Research Clerk Affairs department is committed to the protection [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] of aboriginal and treaty rights, ensuring access Ext. 2251 Ext. 2264 Ext. 2253 Ext. 2237 to land and resources, and supporting the political goals, values and aspirations of the Union of Ontario Indians - Head Offi ce, P.O. Box 711, North Bay, ON, P1B 8J8, Ph: 705-497-9127 Toll: 1-877-702-5200 Web: www.anishinabek.ca Anishinabek Nation. Page 8 Anishinabek News June 2008 Era of Action

Nbisiing Secondary School students, Falcon Skye McLeod-Shabogesic, Guest of honour and citizen of Kettle and Stony Point First Nation, Sam George, above, second from right, sat left, and Jesse Cornthwaite did a presentation on what treaties meant in with drummers Zachary Beaudette and Nolan McLeod from Nbisiing Secondary School and Bob Goulais, to them, taking a humourous look at what Chief Shabogesic might have assistant to the Grand Council Chief for the Union of Ontario Indians. wondered when he signed the Robinson-Huron Treaty in 1850. Treaties main agenda topic By Marci Becking have been met from the Ipperwash Inquiry report and NIPISSING FIRST NATION – More than 150 people what yet has to be done. from North Bay and the area attended Nbisiing “The Ipperwash Inquiry brought forward a Secondary School for an Era of Action event to learn number of recommendations that highlight the need more about the treaty relationship between First to improve relationships based on the Treaties, Nations and other Canadians. including calling for the establishment of a Treaty First Nations across Canada have designated Commission in Ontario,” said Hare. “The Crown’s May 29 as the annual National Day of Action, an historical role in Treaty-making was one-sided and opportunity for First Nations and Canadians to stand dishonourable. Their role in resolving land claims, together in a spirit of unity to support a better life for historical grievances, and facilitating First Nations’ all First Nations peoples – strong First Nations mean Treaty rights has made us poor and kept us poor a stronger Canada. generation after generation.” This year’s theme, Treaties: Renewing the Falcon Skye McLeod-Shabogesic said the opening Relationship, was a continuation of last year’s Era of and closing prayer in Ojibway. Action public education campaign launched by the “It is so nice to hear the young people speak the Union of Ontario Indians. language,” said George. “I feel very proud when I The campaign encourages adoption of hear it and I know that our language will carry on.” recommendations from the report of the Ipperwash Special guests included Deputy Grand Council Nipissing First Nation Chief Marianna Couchie listens to Deputy Grand Inquiry. Chief Glen Hare, Chief Marianna Couchie, North Bay Council Chief Glen Hare’s speech on treaty implementation. Couchie Guest of honour for the event was Sam George, Mayor Vic Fedeli, Callander Mayor Hector Lavigne, gave a presentation on the funding given to Nbisiing Secondary School brother of Anthony Dudley George, whose Sept. 6, West Nipissing Mayor Joanne Savage and MP for per student compared to what non-Native school boards receive. For 1995 death led the Ipperwash Inquiry. Nipissing-Timiskaming, Anthony Rota. the Native students who live off-reserve and attend Nbisiing, Nipissing Both Sam George and Deputy Grand Council Supporters can still sign online postcards at www. First Nation gets no funding dollars, forcing the band to carry a defi cit. Chief Glen Hare spoke about what recommendations era-of-action.com. –Photo by Priscilla Goulais

Master of Ceremonies Maurice Switzer, director of communications at the Union of Ontario Indians holds up the British and Western Great Lakes Confederacy Covenant Chain wampum belt. The belt was a Nbisiing Secondary School women’s drum group Mnidoo Nangoo Kwe (Spirit Star) performed four songs symbol of peace of friendship, and was intended to reinforce the terms at the morning event. Natasha Lariviere, Mindy Lariviere, Melanie Beaucage, Amy Lariviere and Tamara of the Royal Proclamation of 1763 by which Britain recognized the Penasse. – Photos by Marci Becking nationhood and land rights of North American Indians. June 2008 Anishinabek News Page 9 NN’Ginaajiw’Ginaajiw

Doris Peltier of Wikwemikong poses for her shoot at Duchesnay Falls. Peltier, who will be Miss April in the N’ginaajiw calendar says that she’s happy that HIV positive people are included in the project. “Our spirit is beautiful, too!” N’ginaajiw: My spirit is beautiful

Ad campaign takes a traditional look at self-esteem in First Nations women

By Marci Becking action, asking: “If our women and youth are acknowledging that her grandmother’s stay NIPISSING FN – For three days in early June being infected at such high rates, where is in Spanish residential school made her family a determined team of actors and producers our future?” one of the many impacted by dysfunctional fought off blackfl ies to create a 30-second Cotter’s response was to step back and ask parenting. commercial that encourages Native women herself why First Nations women are plagued “She learned how not to be an Indian and to acknowledge their inner beauty. by so many negative health indicators. to not be proud of who she was,” says Cotter, HIV/AIDS educator Jody Cotter “From residential schools to the Sixties who also sees Anishinaabe-kwe affected by spearheaded the project, draping herself in scoop, we are greatly impacted from the other serious symptoms – suicide, abuse, bug-netting to help complete the commercial, loss of our language, identity, pride and our substance abuse, alcoholism, and food which will be aired on the Aboriginal Peoples rich culture,” she says. “What was hurt the addictions. Television Network as the centrepiece of most was our spirits. Our spirits have been The N’ginaajiw project was born in the “N’ginaajiw” (My spirit is beautiful) damaged and you can see evidence of that on Cotter’s realization that healing the spirits of advertising campaign. any First Nation across Canada.” Native women were essential if any headway “N’ginnajiw is one of the most wonderful The physical and sexual abuse they was to be made in combating the HIV/AIDs things that we need to acknowledge in our experienced infected First Nations women epidemic. daily lives,” says Cotter. “One of the most with hurt, pain and shame, she says, amazing things about your spirit is that no matter what situation you are in you will always have your spirit. No one can take that away from you.” Cotter has been creative in fulfi lling her responsibilities as coordinator of the HIV/ AIDS program for the Union of Ontario Indians and the 42 member communities of the Anishinabek Nation. She even developed a board game to make information about sexually-transmitted diseases more inviting and accessible to young people. She can cite all the scary statistics about HIV/AIDS. “The aboriginal HIV infection rate took an alarming four percent jump last year and two groups most affected are aboriginal women and youth,’ she says. “From 1998 to 2006 our women represented 48.1% of all positive HIV test results – compared to 20.7% for non-Native women.” But she knew her information campaign had to go up a notch after she attended a conference and heard a keynote speaker Cheryl Recollet poses for videographer Ed Reagan. His assistant Alex pulls him on the dolly challenge First Nations communities to take while Jody Cotter holds up light refl ectors. Page 10 Anishinabek News June 2008 Restoration of Jurisdiction Jeannette Corbiere-Lavell new Commissioner on Citizenship GARDEN RIVER FIRST NATION – Grand Council “For all intents and purposes, we outright reject the concept Chief John Beaucage announced the appointment of of Indian Status,” stated Grand Council Chief Beaucage. “The Jeannette Corbiere-Lavell as the new Anishinabek Indian Act has never replaced our right to determine our own Nation Commissioner on Citizenship. citizens. Section 6 ‘Persons Entitled to be Registered’ is an “It is not my status card that tells me I am abomination. It is clear, the only intent of the Indian Act is to Anishinaabe. It is the legacy of my forefathers. It is my reduce the government’s liability by reducing First Nations belonging to my family, my community and my Nation. one generation at a time.” It is the blood that pumps through my veins. It is the “The fi rst principle we must adopt as part of the Anishinabek songs and language I still hold in my heart that defi ne Nation citizenship law is the one-parent rule. This is common me as Anishinaabe. The Indian Act will never take place among Nations around the world. Canada has a one- that from me,” Grand Council Chief John Beaucage parent rule for Canadian citizenship. As does Italy, Germany, told Anishinabek Nation leaders and citizens attending France, and the United States,” said Beaucage. “This means the E-Dbendaagzijig (“those who belong”) conference that an individual is eligible for Anishinabek Nation citizenship at the Community Recreation Centre at Garden River if either parent is entitled to be registered as a citizen of the First Nation on May 27. “And even long after I am Anishinabek Nation. This will effectively dispense with the gone from this earth, and my grandchildren and great- Indian Act provision, Section 6.2, also known as the second grandchildren may have lost their status – sure they generation cut-off rule.” may not be Status Indians, but By God, they will know Presenters Wayne Beaver and Joanne Smoke from for certain They are Anishinaabe!” Alderville First Nation educated participants on the serious “It is important that we distinguish between Indian implication to our youth and their children’s future if the Status and Citizenship,” said Beaucage. “Our new matter of how we identify ourselves is not addressed soon. commissioner carries with her all our confi dence Projection models clearly showed that any First Nation could in assuming a leadership role in our citizenship be losing status Indians as a category in a matter of years. In initiative.” Grand Council Chief John Beaucage and Elmer, Alderville’s case, they predict that the last status Indian birth “I am honoured to have been chosen to undertake Courchene, Elder, Assembly of First Nations, set the tone will take place in 2032. this urgent commission at this appropriate and for the E-Dbendaagzijig conference held at Garden River, Participants were grateful to be able to share stories of their opportune time,” said Commissioner Corbiere-Lavell. May 27 and 28. Both gave impassioned addresses, families’ pain and the injustices they have endured in the past “This issue has caused too much hurt and division in urging Anishinabek conference-goers to protect and through loss of Indian status and subsequent exclusion from our communities and it is time we did something about implement the inherent right to determine our citizens. their home communities. Participants said the conference was it. I commend the Anishinabek leadership, in all our a positive step and thast they appreciated having a forum to communities, for taking this brave and unprecedented initiated her pursuit to ensure that the rights of Indian speak openly about a sensitive issue that has caused division step.” women were equal to the rights of Indian men in the and hurt in First Nation communities. They expressed that Ms. Corbiere-Lavell is a central fi gure in the pursuit Indian Act. In 1973, the Supreme Court of Canada heard more information should be available, not only to Anishinabek of fairness and recognition for First Nations women Ms. Corbiere-Lavell’s case, now known as the Lavell First Nations, but to all of Canada. and children, especially those who have become case, but it was lost by a single vote from the bench. As the Anishinabek Nation Commissioner on Citizenship, enfranchised and lost their Indian status due to the Under the Indian Act revised by Bill C-31, 1985, Ms. Corbiere-Lavell will consult with Anishinabek Nation Indian Act. Aside from the loss of social and treaty Section 6 outlines who qualifi es for Indian Status. Section leaders and citizens across the Anishinabek territory, provide benefi ts that are attached to Indian status, the loss of 6 (2) states that only children of two parents with Indian expert advice to the Grand Council Chief and the Chiefs status also carries a huge social value that can mean the status can pass Indian status on to their children. The rule Committee on Governance, and deliver a fi nal report that will difference between acceptance or rejection in Native sometimes called the ‘two-generation cut-off’ could mean aid in the development of the Anishinabek Nation Citizenship communities. the extinction of so-called “status Indians” within six Law. In June 2007, the Anishinabek Grand Council In April of 1970 she married David Lavell, which generations. In some Anishinabek Nation communities, unanimously endorsed a resolution giving Grand Council under the Indian Act, resulted in loss of Indian Status it is predicted that the last status Indian will be born as Chief Beaucage the mandate to develop the law. and her rights to membership at Wikwemikong. This early as 2012. New Citizenship Commissioner had a long struggle for status Ojibway, and citizen of the Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve, Jeannette Corbiere- Lavell was educated on reserve and fl uent in Ojibway. She left her community at age twelve to complete High School at St. Joseph’s Convent, North Bay, Ontario. Corbiere-Lavell received her Ontario Teacher’s Certifi cate from McMaster University in 1976 after spending many years in the social services fi eld in Toronto working with her own people. On April 11, 1970 she married David - Indigenous Women of the Americas Lavell, resulting in the loss of her rights to In August 1973 Jeannette’s case, now membership to her Reserve under the Indian known as the Lavell case was lost at the Act, a piece of Federal legislation governing Supreme Court of Canada, by one vote. the affairs of Status Indians in Canada. This In April 1985 after the Canadian Charter initiated the start of three years of pursuit of Human Rights & Equality was enacted to ensure that the rights of Indian women in the new Canadian Constitution, Jeannette were equal to the rights of Indian men in the regained her Indian Status and was re- Indian Act. instated to the Band List of the Wikwemikong The Anishinabek Nation’s Elders, Youth and Women’s Councils will play an essential This also precipitated the creation of Unceded Indian Reserve along with her three role in holding discussions with Anishinabek First Nation leaders and citizens on the several Aboriginal Women’s Organizations, children, Nimkii, Waubmemee and William. development of the modern law on citizenship. Assisting our new commissioner will be with Jeannette as one of the primary and Currently Corbiere-Lavell has retired (left to right), back row: Bonnie Bressette, Kettle and Stony Point, (Women’s Council); founding Board members of: from teaching Fine Arts and Parenting Commissioner Jeannette Corbiere Lavell, Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve; - Ontario Native Women’s Organization to secondary students at Wasse-Abin Chief Patrick Madahbee, Aundeck Omni Kaning, (Anishinabek Nation Leadership (ONWA) Wikwemikong High School. She is still Council and Chairperson of the Chiefs Committee on Governance); and in front row: - Indian Rights for Indian Women active in Aboriginal women’s organizations, Sunset Sagatch, Sheguiandah, (Youth Representative); Sandra Albert, Chippewas of - Native Women’s Association of provincially and nationally. the Thames, (Youth Council); Elsie Bissaillon, Mississauga #8, (Elders Council); and Canada Arlene Barry, Garden River, (Women’s Council). June 2008 Anishinabek News Page 11 Restoration of Jurisdiction Indian Status under the Indian Act WHAT WAS THE PURPOSE OF BILL C-31?

• To restore Indian status to Indian women and their children who had been deprived of Indian status by virtue of marriage to a non-Indian spouse - Indian Act Section 12 (1) (b). • To permit those who had previously been deprived of Indian status through enfranchisement and various other assimilation clauses contained in the pre-1985 Indian Act, to re-apply for Indian status. WHAT PROMPTED THE BILL C-31 AMENDMENTS?

The fi rst event (international in scope), was a “formal censure” against Canada by the Human Rights Chief Patrick Madahbee of Aundeck Omni Kaning, Anishinabek Nation Committee of the United Nations on the basis of the fact that the Indian Act discriminated against Indian Leadership Council’s Chief of Intergovernmental Affairs and the Chair women. of the Chiefs Committee on Governance (CCoG). “Citizenship is a • The second event was the coming into force on April 17, 1985, of the Canadian Charter of Rights high priority. We cannot afford to lose another Anishinaabe. We need a and Freedoms making it illegal to discriminate on the basis of sex. The pre-1985 Indian Act clearly real change in thinking about who Anishinabek are. We can no longer offended this latter provision of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. be complicit in the genocide of our own people by operating under the Indian status rules of the Indian Act,” said Chief Madahbee, who co- POSITIVE ASPECTS OF BILL C-31 - NEGATIVE ASPECTS OF BILL C-31 chaired the conference with the new Commissioner on Citizenship.

• Bill C-31 allows for the continuing discrimination against Indian women. • Hidden within the Bill C-31 amendments, is a two generation cut-off for Indian status which Citizenship Law and Process guarantees the extinction of status Indians at most, if not all, First Nations in Canada. • Some very important rights, benefi ts, and services, to which status Indians have always been The consultation process will certainly be the key to the success of entitled, are dependent upon status. By guaranteeing the extinction of status Indians, this Bill therefore the Anishinabek Nation Citizenship Law initiative. The consultation also guarantees the extinguishment of these rights and benefi ts. process is based on the successful regional consultation model em- ployed throughout the Anishinabek Nation territory during the devel- HOW THE TWO GENERATION CUT-OFF WORKS TO DEPRIVE FUTURE opment of the Matrimonial Real Property (MRP) law, the fi rst modern GENERATIONS OF INDIAN STATUS AND THE IMPORTANT RIGHTS WHICH Anishinabek Nation law. In that model, consultations were held with ARE DEPENDENT UPON INDIAN STATUS First Nations leaders and citizens at sessions held in each of the four regions of the Anishinabek Nation: Northern Superior, Lake Huron, • An “out-marriage” occurs when an Indian marries a non-Indian or non-status Indian spouse. Southeast and Southwest. • Where out-marriage occurs in two successive generations the children of the second generation out- The process will involve the Anishinabek Nation Elders Council, marriage will, according to Bill C-31, be deemed to be non-status Indians. Womens Council and Youth Council. There will also be a signifi cant • The Indian Act categorizes status Indians as either 6(1) or 6(2). This has reference to section 6 of urban and off-reserve consultation. A full 60 percent of Anishinabek the Act wherein it is set out which individuals are entitled to Indian status. A 6(1) Indian has two Indian people live off-reserve, and they must have inpaut on the Citizenship parents and a 6(2) Indian has one Indian parent. If a 6(2) marries a non-Indian or non-status Indian law spouse, his/her children will be born without Indian status. With regard to First Nation community-specifi c consultations – each First Nation may have consultations according to their needs. (Excerpted from “Alderville Status Presentation 2007” by Wayne Beaver) Proposed measures such as First Nations-specifi c regulations or Cit- izenship Codes will need to include provisions that will customize and implement the Anishinabek Nation law according to First Nation needs. Envisioned is a central Anishinabek Nation Registry to be estab- lished as part of the Citizenship Law that will likely be housed at the Anishinabek Nation Central Government (now known as the Union of Ontario Indians). The registry will secure registration according to the First Nation-specifi c Citizenship Codes. Possible citizenship categories may include Ancestral Citizen, Immigrant Citizen, Adop- tive Citizen, and Resident Non-Citizens (RNC). Perhaps, immigration policies would need to be considered and developed. As part of this initiative, an Anishinabek Nation Citizenship Card will be developed. This secure, anti-fraud “smart card” would iden- Milltown Motors ad tify Anishinabek Nation citizens and replace the Certifi cate of Indian Status. The Anishinabek Nation would negotiate with both levels of government to recognize the card for taxation purposes, border cross- ing, harvesting, etc. 6x6 Finally, as part of this initiative, the further development of the Anishinabek Nation Passport may be undertaken. There is currently an Anishinabek passport that is issued at the Union of Ontario In- dians, but it is not secure and is not offi cially recognized by treaty under the international passport authority. Once completed, the An- ishinabek Nation would negotiate with the federal government and international authorities to have this recognized as a legitimate travel document for Anishinabek citizens. Travel assistance and passport as- sistance abroad may be provided by Canada.

ROJ Staff Terry Restoule Capacity Development Coordinator Jamie Restoule Dave Shawana Self-Government Project Manager Education Working Group Coordinator EDUCATION NEGOTIATIONS Lorie Young Radifi cation Coordinator Merle Pegahmagahbow Head Negotiator Mary Laronde Tracey O’Donnell, Legal Counsel Communications Coordinator Bernadette Marasco, Administrative Assistant Jason Restoule GOVERNANCE NEGOTIATIONS Communications Liaison Offi cer R. Martin Bayer, Chief Negotiator COMMUNITY FACILITATORS Fred Bellefeuille, Legal Counsel Tim Hardy, Northern Superior Adrienne Pelletier, Administrative Assistant Valarie McGregor RESTORATION OF JURISDICTION Lake Huron/Northern Superior Doreen Trudeau, Lake Huron/Southeast Andrew Arnott, Fiscal Relations Analyst Contact Esther Gilbank, Chiefs Committee Coordinator Mike Restoule, Special Projects Coordinator Ph: (705) 497-9127 or 1-877-702-5200 web: www.anishinabek.ca/ROJ Page 12 Anishinabek News June 2008 Mno-Bmaadziwin/Health Colorectal cancer has AFN launches fi tness challenge OTTAWA – The Assembly of Health Survey (RHS) the for diabetes and is committed First Nations will launch a fi tness prevalence of diabetes among to playing a key and unique same risks as diabetes challenge this summer as part of First Nations adults is nearly leadership role in building healthy Colorectal cancer is the third most common an initiative to encourage healthy four times greater than general First Nation communities, as cancer in men and women. But, with tests, it can lifestyles. Canadian population. The general recommended by the National be found early and in some cases, can even be This year, the challenge is prevalence of diabetes in First First Nations Diabetes Working prevented. asking Regional Chiefs, Chiefs, Nation adults is 19.7%. Nearly Group at its strategic planning “Colorectal cancer is 90 per cent curable when Band Councillors and offi cer nine out of ten First Nation adults meeting held in February 2008. found and treated early. This percentage drops to 10 workers to think of new ways report adverse consequences At the end of the initiative per cent when found in the later stages of the disease.” says Danielle to incorporate fi tness activities related to their diabetes, including prizes will be awarded Paterson, senior manager, prevention at the Canadian Cancer Society, and healthy food choices into vision problems, problems with to individuals who make Ontario. their daily lives. Research shows legs and feet, kidney function and improvements in fi tness. Colorectal cancer was much less common among Aboriginal there is a link between healthy infection, and heart problems. More information will be made people in the 1960s and 1970s. But since then, it has risen to the lifestyles and lowering the risk of, The AFN is targeting available on the AFN website same levels as the rest of Ontario. Colorectal cancer shares some of and complication with, diabetes. strategies to improve the health when the challenge is offi cially the same risks as diabetes – which is rising among Aboriginal people. According to the Regional of those who have, or are at risk launched in July. The risks are obesity, lack of exercise or physical activity and poor diet. Smoking is also a risk factor for colorectal cancer. Thanks in part to the Canadian Cancer Society’s work, the Ontario government has started a province-wide colorectal cancer screening program – the fi rst in North America – that will save lives. People usually only need a colonoscopy as a follow-up to a positive FOBT or if they are at higher risk of getting colorectal cancer because another member of their family has had the disease Speak to your doctor or healthcare worker about a plan for you if you have: · a fi rst-degree relative (such as parent, sister or brother) who has had colorectal cancer · another bowel problem · small growths (polyps) on the inner wall of your colon Also, if you don’t know your risk, talk to a doctor or healthcare worker. For more information, call the Canadian Cancer Society Cancer Information Service at 1 888 939-3333 or visit cancer.ca. Suzanne starts third summer Hello! For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Suzanne Campeau. I am from OFNTSC 6x10 Nipissing First Nation and this will be my third summer working at the Union of Ontario Indians. environmental tech ad This summer I will be working as the FASD Lake Huron Region Worker. I am currently fi nishing Suzanne Campeau up my BA in Native Studies at Nipissing University. My goal last year) or FASD. It will be a is to go to teacher’s college and very busy two months but it will attain a Bachelor in Education. be lots of fun. I am looking for- Teaching is my passion whether ward to travelling and meeting it’s HIV/AIDS (my summer job new people.

Biidaaban Heal- ing centre 4x4.5 June 2008 Anishinabek News Page 13 Mno-Bmaadziwin/Health Cops pedal message By Rick Garrick THUNDER BAY– A group of Saskatchewan Peacekeepers cycling across Canada for diabetes awareness were taking their message to Parliament Hill. “We’ll be arriving on Parliament Hill on June 6,” says Const. Keith Salzl, an Aboriginal liaison with the Saskatoon Police Service and one of six Aboriginal and non-aboriginal police offi cers involved with the diabetes awareness bicycle tour. “Hopefully we can get the attention of the Saskatchewan Peacekeepers pedalled their diabetes awareness message through the streets of Thunder Bay. Health minister. A lot of First Nations youth don’t realize how much of an epidemic diabetes is in the Aboriginal community.” The Peacekeepers Pedalling For Aboriginal People with Diabetes began the fourth leg of their fi ve-year journey across Halford Hide Canada on May 22 at the Fort William First Nation Community Centre, then continued through 4x4.5 downtown Thunder Bay to the Terry Fox Lookout before heading further east on Hwy. 17 to the Ouimet Canyon intersection. Parents should be able to identify Jimson Weed. It can reach a height Two local Aboriginal liaison of fi ve feet, bearing white fl owers and prickly seed pods that split open police offi cers and Nishnawbe- when ripe, usually in fal Aski Nation deputy grand chief Alvin Fiddler rode through Thunder Bay with the Peacekeepers, who Jimson weed can be fatal began their diabetes awareness By Marci Becking and prickly seed pods that split campaign in 2005 with a ride CURVE LAKE FN – Mary open when ripe, usually in fall. from Vancouver to Saskatoon, Robertson, First Nation Protection According to the Ontario continued with a 1,500 km tour Worker , wants parents and family Poison Control Centre, parents around Saskatchewan in 2006, members to be aware of the should watch for symptoms and completed the third leg of potential deadly effects of Jimson which include incoherent speech, their journey with a Saskatoon to Weed. impaired coordination; rapid heart Thunder Bay ride last year. “Four children on our First beat; and dry, fl ushed or hot skin. “It started out as a way to say Nation almost died,” said In some cases, users can thank you to our local Elders,” Robertson, “they all required experience seizures, intense Salzl says. “There were so many immediate medical attention.” visual or auditory hallucinations, positive comments that we felt it Jimson weed can reach a height or cardiac arrest. A Jimson weed was meant to continue (to) take of fi ve feet, bearing white fl owers overdose should be considered this issue of diabetes across all of potentially serious and medical Canada.” intervention sought. Linklater adds that all Carmix Robertson says that the two Aboriginal people are at risk of girls and two boys who were developing diabetes. involved in the Curve Lake “If you’re diagnosed with 4x4.5 incident brewed the weed into a diabetes, get help,” she says. “You tea. can work to control diabetes.”

Shop industrial 4x3 Page 14 Anishinabek News June 2008

Wahnapitae building capacity By Heather Campbell 300-member First Nation is located above what WAHNAPITAE FN –A joint venture partnership has geologists say may be one of the largest deposits been established between this small First Nation and of garnet in the world. “We want to have the a Sudbury-based consulting fi rm to develop mining- control of our resources, protect them in a safe and related expertise within the community. environmental way, but so that it is also economically The joint venture between Wahnapitae FN and good for us.” Trow Associates Inc. was announced just weeks The fi ve-year agreement with Trow Associates after Chief Ted Roque signed a memorandum of will increase the First Nation’s capacity to be in understanding with a Mohawk-owned company to partnership with mining companies, and assist in develop Canada’s only Aboriginal-owned mine. skills transfers in geology, environmental biology “This partnership helps our community to open and various fi elds of mining specialization to equip the doors for opportunity,” says Chief Roque, whose them to better deal with mining companies. Wahnapitae Chief Ted Roque and Ross Assinewe, Trow Associates. Companies advised to ‘root out rednecks’ EDMONTON – Companies that pursue aboriginal workers can have their efforts wasted in the seconds it takes a colleague to utter one bigoted insult, warned NAIT’s manager of aboriginal initiatives. Stephen Crocker helped the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology keep 72 per cent of its First Nations and Métis students last year - - up from 33 per cent in 1999. He spoke on how companies can OFNTSC infrastructure better recruit and keep aboriginals at the Building Tomorrow Today conference of career development practitioners in Edmonton. Managers should check if the corporate culture is “red-neck,” he specialist 6x10 ad said.“Is the guy on the shop fl oor ... on board? And if they’re not, how do we get him on board, because that guy can say something to that new aboriginal person and they’ll walk.” Training staff on aboriginal awareness or developing a mentor system, as NAIT is doing, will foster a culture of inclusion, he said. “It’s important to get rid of some of the myths. Yes, aboriginal people do pay tax just like everyone else. It’s only when they work on reserve that they don’t, and there’s very few jobs on reserve,” said Crocker, who began a 34-year career working with aboriginals teaching school in Ontario and Manitoba First Nations. Crocker’s staff has expanded to 14 employees from two. They help fi nd housing for aboriginals, who often arrive from tiny communities. Advisers will step in to fi nd out what’s causing a student to miss classes. One single father was always late because he was busing his two small children to day cares. Tweaking his schedule helped. Edmonton has Canada’s second-largest urban aboriginal population, at about 52,100. From 2001 to 2006, city aboriginal numbers grew 27 per cent, nearly three times faster than the rest of the population. Urging AHRDA renewal OTTAWA – Native leaders are seeking a new federal strategy to invest in the Canadian Aboriginal labour force. At a May 28 summit of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Aboriginal Human Resource Development Agreement (AHRDA) holders joined political leaders to discuss the renewal process for the federal Aboriginal Human Resource Development Strategy (AHRDS) that has been in place since 1999 and is due to expire at the end of this fi scal year. Concerns have been raised by the AHRDA holders and National Aboriginal Organizations in relation to the emerging new directions for post-2009 successor strategy. Aboriginal AHRDA holders with full support from their leadership want to ensure that the federal government does not ignore, but benefi ts from, the years of capacity and expertise built to date under AHRDS. “What we have discussed today is basically the key message that First Nations will be delivering tomorrow on the National Day of Action. That message is one that all Canadians can relate to. Our young people, our children, represent our hopes and dreams for a better future,” said AFN National Chief Phil Fontaine. “The federal government needs to work right now with the AFN, ITK, MNC, and our AHRDAs to determine what immediate investments are required. These investments will ensure that all Canadians can access the enormous untapped potential of our Peoples, and our communities -- investing in First Nations, investing in all of our Peoples, means investing in Canada’s future.” According to Human Resources and Social Development Canada statistics,close to 150,000 Aboriginal people became employed as a result of the AHRDS. June 2008 Anishinabek News Page 15 DOHM-NUK/LET’S PLAY! Rabbit & Bear Paws

By Christian Hebert No dancing at gas pumps “Gas is $1.25 a litre! Hope that doesn’t affect our turnout of dancers.” That was a common topic with people I spoke to during the pro- cess of assembling the listings for this year’s Great Lakes Pow-wow Guide. Many of us will have to put aside travel plans or shorten sum- mer vacations because of rising fuel costs. This may mean drop- ping some more distant pow-wows from our summer itinerary, or think twice about taking a gas-guzzling mini-van to bring along little ones to dance. Competition pow-wow orga- nizers in Canada and south of the border told me they’re worried about covering the costs of their advertised prize payouts, while those staging traditional gatherings are concerned about attendance at this year’s and future events. Consider if you are a vendor of crafts or First Nation foods what it means to travel a long distance Rule #10: No passing out in the wedding cake and set up shop where there is only a smattering of souls to purchase The season for celebrating commitment and 6) The wedding gift should be for the couple, your wares? Several communi- love has begun. No doubt you have received not just one of them who is your friend. Avoid ties on last year’s pow-wow trail at least one “Save the Date” card or wedding tacky gag gifts that will embarrass the couple invitation for the coming summer. and maybe yourself if opened in the presence of shelved their events for this sum- In recent years I have learned a lot about family members. These gifts are best given at a mer. Will others follow their lead weddings from married couples, their families shower or privately. next year? BY HOLLY BRODHAGEN and through observation. The one thing I [email protected] 7) There is no consensus on how much should Such a bleak scenario is not have not learned much about is how to be a be spent on a gift, but many say it should be likely to come to pass. There will good guest. And I gather I am not alone in the invited. If they invited you and a guest but not equal in value to the cost of guests’ meals at the always be those who will attend confusion about gift-giving and other wedding “family” then they are trying to say leave the reception, and also depends on your relationship one of several of our celebrations, protocol, so I went looking for some answers. kids at home. with the couple. particularly those close to home. First thing we all need to know is that the 3) If you can not make it to the wedding or 8) Read between the lines. Ask family members But if a family that normally wedding couple has a lot to deal with! As one any other scheduled event, send your regrets as about items not printed on the invitation, attends fi ve pow-wows decides frazzled bride said, “By the time the day came I soon as possible. like gift registry, cash bar, and if children are they can’t make more than one or just wanted it over!” 4) If you arrive late for the ceremony, don’t welcome. two, both they and their would-be We as guests can help make this occasion rush to a seat. Instead wait and seat yourself 9) We all like the chance to dress up but hosts will lose out. a little easier on the wedding couple and their quietly. Do not peek through the church doors never, ever outshine the wedding couple and Kind of brings a new mean- families by following these suggestions: or you might end up featured in the ceremony their party. Do some homework about the photos. ing to “not dancing at the pumps” 1) Reply formally to all invitations, including bridesmaids’ dresses or you may be mistaken showers or stag and does. One quick phone 5) Never, and I mean never complain about any for a member of the wedding party. doesn’t it? call or pen stroke can make life easier for the part of the wedding, couple, family or reception 10) It is okay to get tipsy but not okay to pass couple. while at the event. The last thing a bride needs out in the wedding cake. Christian Hebert a citizen of Dokis 2) Read all wedding information carefully, is to discover that no one likes the food or I’d love to hear readers’ suggestions about First Nation is a regular contributor especially time, date, location and who is being decorations. wedding etiquette. to the Anishinabek News.

APTN 10.25x3 Page 16 Anishinabek News June 2008

NOHFC FULL Colour AD June 2008 Anishinabek News Page 17

KinoomaagewinKinoomaagewin A SUPPLEMENT TO THE ANISHINABEK NEWS June 2008

Cambrian new media program hands-on learning By Rick Garrick THUNDER BAY – Angele Dubois is looking forward to pursuing a career in broadcasting- new media after fi nishing her six- week placement with CBC Radio Thunder Bay. “I love it here,” says the Henvey Inlet First Nation citizen from Sudbury, explaining that her placement will complete the Broadcast-New Media graduate program she began last September. “It’s just amazing — so many creative people working together.” Dubois wants to continue working in broadcasting-new media in the north, either with CBC or another broadcaster. “I want to go to the Northwest Territories,” she says. “It’s an opportunity to experience a part of the world I’ve never seen. And cultures I’ve never really been exposed to.” Angele Dubois, a student in Cambrian College’s Broadcast New Media program, on placement in the CBC Radio studios in Thunder Bay. Dubois signed up for the fi rst class of the newly- the story.” “We do so on different levels,” Grillanda has plenty of offered to Cambrian’s Aboriginal, created one-year program for “I learned so much in one Grillanda says. “We want to experience in radio, having worked visible minority or special needs university or college graduates year,” she says. “More than I had teach people to be reporters and for years with CBC at various students enrolled in a media at Sudbury’s Cambrian College learned in any other program.” journalists. We also teach them postings across the country, program. after completing a four-year Dubois adds that everything technical skills so they know including a stint producing “We need more diversity in our communications degree at they learned in class, from working how to use video editing software Defi nitely Not The Opera and newsrooms,” she says. “We need Laurentian University. She had a with the Marantz radio equipment and fl ash technology to enhance another creating The Link on more Aboriginal people in our focus on print journalism through to the basics of fi lm to editing, is websites.” Radio Canada International. newsrooms.” an articulation agreement with paying off now that she is working The students also learn how “I have also done radio Grillanda adds a second Cambrian. in radio. to operate video cameras, host training in west Africa and I’m reason for Aboriginal students to “It has been excellent,” “Oh, that’s what you meant,” radio and television programs, leaving in a couple of weeks to do pursue media training: to get more Dubois says. “Very hands-on. she says, recalling some of the and produce audio and video media training in New Orleans,” Aboriginal stories in the media We had a small class so we got to lessons she was taught at Cambrian. documentaries. Grillanda says. and on the agenda. know everyone.” “Now I get the bigger picture.” “Some of the students work Grillanda encourages “There is a feeling that Dubois found the program to Broadcast-New Media will be shown at Cinefest Sudbury, Aboriginal students to apply to her Aboriginal reporters can get these be much different from what she coordinator Jessica Grillanda an international fi lm festival,” program, noting that the media is stories,” she says. “We had a was accustomed to in university, explains that she teaches three Grillanda says. “They also have a looking for more Aboriginal staff couple of Aboriginal students in with an emphasis on tight streams in her program: radio, radio show on the air at 96.7 FM in their newsrooms and that a our program this year and we have deadlines and “putting a focus to television and writing for the web. throughout the community.” CTV Broadcasting Scholarship is more coming next year.”

ANCU 10.25 x 2 Page 18 Anishinabek News June 2008 Kinoomaagewin/Education Celebrating high school success By Heather Campbell “It gets a bit lonely and frustrating but I have a SUDBURY – Cassandra Manitowabi walked away lot of pride in who I am,” she says. She feels proud with six achievement certifi cates at this year’s and honoured for the recognition by her community Aboriginal Secondary School Awards banquet held and is planning to study either law enforcement or in Sudbury. sports education after she completes high school. Manitowabi, a Grade 11 student at Bishop Cindy Trudeau brought daughters Dina and Alexander Secondary School is a young girl making Nina for the banquet from Manitoulin Island. a mark in her school. She is involved in soccer, Dina is receiving achievement awards and Nina is badminton, track team and dance. She says she likes graduating. “It’s great to see all the students get to try a new sport every year. Being recognized for awards< says Cindy. “ It shows other students they her achievements is something she is familiar with can be rewarded for school effort.” having received a junior citizen award at 13 years This was the 5th annual banquet with 1200 old. certifi cates being handed out and 98 graduates Cassandra is one of four aboriginal students in honoured. Organizers are pleased to continue seeing her school. the number of awards increase. Cassandra and Sandra Manitowabi

Language teacher Verna Hardwick with students Denise Wabegijig, Kachina Reynish, Cheyenne Oechsler, Mom Cindy and Dina Trudeau Aleesha Abitong, provided drumming and sons for the event.

MBS 10.25x7 June 2008 Anishinabek News Page 19 Kinoomaagewin/Education

Cheques for charity The Aboriginal Learning Unit at Canadore College hosted a Music Showcase in March of this year involving ALU and Indigenous Wellness and Addiction Prevention Program students, North Bay Indian Friendship Centre and Nipissing University Aboriginal Services and Programs. Proceeds from the show were donated to the Anishinabek Nation 7th Generation Charity and the Canadian Diabetes Association. Chris Gagnon, Gerard Peltier, and Peter Beaucage presented the cheques to Tamara Gagnon and Les Couchie. – Photo by Adrienne Pelletier

Cooking up gold Alexander Henry students Coral Chovjka and Keith King earned gold in the fi rst culinary competition held for high schools at Sault College. Nine high schools from the Algoma District and the Huron Separate School Boards competed, preparing a menu of salmon, homemade pasta, and a dessert dish. The students were evaluated by two judges on sanitation, safety, handling of knives, teamwork and timing, as well as on the taste of the fi nished product. Coral Algoma District is from Saddle Lake First Nation and is living with grandmother Margaret Hele in Garden River FN. “I felt like a cook,” she said afterwards. “ I want to go to Sault College and take the chef course.” School Board –Photo by Helen Dahl 6x10

RBC 4x7 Page 20 Anishinabek News June 2008 Airline...

Treaties lack enabling laws

Native Studies Page - colour June 2008 Anishinabek News Page 21

Native Studies Page - colour Page 22 Anishinabek News June 2008 Ezhoosed/Arts Cubans get Manitoulin mural By Margo Little HOLGUIN, Cuba – A formerly unadorned wall in this thriving Cuban town now displays the distinctive outline of Manitoulin Island surrounded by First Nations clan symbols and fl oral motifs. The 27- by-15-foot mural stands as vibrant testimony to the artistic revolution taking place on this once isolated island nation. Artist Michael Cywink from Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve participated in the creation of the colourful mural in Holguin (pop. 300,000) during the 15th annual Romerias de Mayo Festival, an event that draws over a thousand young intellectuals and artists from all continents plus all the Cuban provinces to a marathon week of cultural exchange. Cywink decided to design a mural featuring woodland fl oral images and dodems representative of the Anishinaabe of the Great Lakes. It was his sincere wish that “this cultural sharing may help bring the history of the Anishinaabe into a clearer international vision and help unify the vision of the indigenous people partaking in this Michael Cywink, Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve, shared Anishinaabe history with Cuban artists event.” during a mural project in Holguin May 2-8. Here he adds fi nishing touches to the image of Manitoulin Because of his long hair and regalia of eagle feathers, bear claw Island which holds a prominent place on the mural. Beaucage carvings live on STURGEON FALLS – Artist Larry Beaucage may be gone, Day Advertising (Director but his expressive soapstone carvings survive him. Over 100 people turned out to a May Chief Marianna Couchie of strategic...) exhibit of recent-years work by A special tribute was made by the Nipissing First Nation artist, Larry’s daughter, Trisha Young, who passed into the Spirit World who expressed her joy that her last year at 53. father’s work was appreciated by The exhibit featured works so many, and that it will remain a assembled from local handicraft legacy of pride for her family and shops and the extensive her father’s four grandchildren. 6x9.5 collection from Nipissing First Henry Anishinawbe spoke about Nation. Chief Marianna Couchie how the Creator had endowed his and former Chief Philip Goulais godson with the gift of working were among those who honoured with his hands, fi rst as a skilled Larry’s gift of creativity and sheet metal worker, then later as skill. a carver of wood and soapstone.

CHRISTIAN’S READING ROOM Smelly Socks no princess story Title: Smelly Socks Author: Robert Munsch Paperback: 30 pages Publisher: Scholastic Canada ISBN-10: 0439967074 ISBN-13: 978-0439967075

What’s that smell? There’s nothing to wear all the time or simply else quite like it and I’m not refuse to give up. The book is talking about Grandma’s cooking a welcome departure from the or crackling hickory on the ubiquitous dainty- princess bonfi re. Robert Munsch, author stories that are predominantly of “I Love You Forever”, brings aimed at young girls. something completely different I was pleasantly surprised and uniquely-fl avoured to the that it Munsch sets his story bookshelf with his children’s title in an aboriginal community, “Smelly Socks”. and dedicates the book to Tina Smelly Socks is the story of Fabian from the Hay River Dene. Tina, a young girl who loves her Imagine a children’s tale with colourful new socks so much animals like otters, bears, fox that she refuses to take them off, and muskrat replacing the more leading to some hilarious and familiar dog, cat, or goldfi sh. predictable consequences. This There are some delicious scenes is a tale that will appeal to young involving a boat trip to the Big children who, like Tina, often Sock store and Grandpa’s yard have a favourite piece of clothing of wood carvings, chainsaws, or that special toy that they want snowmobiles and contingent June 2008 Anishinabek News Page 23 Nishnaabewin/Culture Remembering Hymn #365 Using GPS on Pow-wow trail Nagamowin #365 Pow-wow season has become GPS. I did not have a clue about was Canadian Cree Douglas a twelve-month affair these days, the GPS excitement. I live on the Cardinal). Ironically, the current Mid-Winter gatherings start with rez, so I know what a GPS is; it exhibit on is called Identity by Casino and University sponsored helps tree planters know where Design: Tradition, Change and pow-wow events, starting in they are, so they don’t get lost in Celebration In Native Women’s January. the bush, but how a GPS could Dresses, curated by Colleen Back in the day, when travels help you on an interstate along the Cutschall (Oglala Lakota) and were with family, we camped, Atlantic coastline was beyond me. Emil Her Many Horses (Oglala Shirley Williams made and sold crafts to make My friend, as well as being a nine Lakota). The focus of this exhibit travel funds, my eldest is to look at how the making son, generally did the last and wearing of dresses for Boozhoo miinwaa! leg of the trip to make ceremonies and other tribal Greeting again! Grand Entry and earn occasions connects women vital Grand Entry points. to the values, skills and Mii sa miinwaa ngoding gii-ni-nokimishiyang! He had an uncanny beliefs of past generations. Once more we have survived and spring is here! ability; regardless of how It includes dresses and far into the bush, prairies dress accessories from Nangodinong go nbaatoonan nandaa waasimooni-gi- or metropolitan centre, he the Plains, Plateau, and idoowaansan edebnomaanan. Maanda dash bezhig ngii-baapi- could fi nd the pow-wow Great Basin that inspires, toon. Mii sa e-zhibiigaadeg! location, he said he used warms and lifts the soul. I get some emails and sometimes I laugh at the humour of them. “The Force”. Each dress, tells a living This is what it said! These days, travels to story of contemporary fi nd the Grand Entry gate times and how the dress is Nagamowin #365 is of another time and era a grounding force between Hymn #365 and generally with one the past and today. of my friends; who can As a child, our family Giikwe-nini gii-ni-giishtoon giigkwed giishkwebiiwin gigiik- sneak away from their made journeys to the wewin, gaa-maanaa win giimikwesii. Oshime go gii-ni dbaatan, nine-to-fi ve offi ce careers Royal Ontario Museum mii dash maanda gaa-kidod, “Giish pin e-yaamaambaa e-bi- for a long weekend (Toronto, ROM). Often itewaagibise-waaboo maan pii miswe kiing, Nda-daapinan mi- of rest and relaxation; times I left with a feeling inwaa dash nda-ziigwebinan ziibiing.” which includes dancing of disparity, grief and A minister was completing a temperance sermon. With great em- somewhere in North anguish. This time, when phasis he said, “If I had all the beer in the world, I’d take it and America, collecting Air I left the Museum, I left pour it into the river.” Miles and Grand Entry with a feeling of immense points, vying for the pride, solace and dignity Ooshime dash go gii-ni kido, “Miinwaa giish pin e-yaamaabaa Grand prize of a free to be a Native American/ mooshkin zhoominaaboo, Nda-daapinan miinwaa nda-ziig- fl ight (Air Miles) or a First Nations woman. Our webnan ziibiing.” dance trophy? My nine dresses, our dance wear to fi ve is teaching part- says it all; “Nothing is as With even greater emphasis he said, “And if I had all the wine in time, unlike most of my Karen Pheasant personal as the clothes the world, I’d take it and pour it into the river.” young baby boomer peers, we wear. Clothing can be who are in their down slope of to fi ver, is a typical urban young seen as a vessel that holds the Mii dash eni-giishzhiitaad, gii-ni-bikwak-naang-ninjiitaa go their pension contribution; it is baby boomer, educated, enjoying human spirit” ( Rebecca Lyon, shpiming, mii dash miinwaa gii-ni-kidod, “ Miinwaa giish pin entertaining to eavesdrop on how fi ner things in life and living Athabasca/Alutiiq. e-yaamaabaa mshkode’aaboo mswe kiing, Nda-daapinan mi- their travel plans conspire, from the journey. Our travel itinerary A couple of days later we inwaa dash nda-ziigwebinan ziibiing.” annual leave, cultural leave or included North American history arrived at the Seminole Tribe And then fi nally, shaking his fi st in the air, he said, “And if I had all O/T leave. Rather than camping points, fi ne dining and a museum (Florida) Grand Entry thanks to the whiskey in the world, I’d take it and pour it into the river.” gear, Air Mile points, a Gold stop. Destinations, such as Pow- our trusty GPS. I danced fi lled card and instead of a camping wow site (Seminole Casino), with gratitude for my journey; Gaa-gzhiitaad, mii dash gii-nmodibid. discount card, corporate rate ID lodging, restaurants, gas stops, “The Force” that my son used Sermon complete, he sat down. is packed, isn’t this a switch from etc. were logged in by entering back in the day, may not have selling trinkets at Highway craft the zip codes of Points of Interest been with us, yet his uncanny E-niigaagziikidang nagamiwinan nengaj go gii-ni-naaniibiwe shops? (POI) and off we went; the GPS ability with “The Force” remains miinwaa gii-ni-waawiindaan, bekish dash go gii-ni-zoobiin- Another change is how global told us everything, our exits, our within my spirit of dance, and gweno, gegaa gego ni-baapi. communication has impacted interstate numbers and closest seemingly with those around “Shkwaaj-ge-nagamitaamtamong. Nagamtangdaa Name-nag- travel plans, and the lack of need gas bar. me on the dance fl oor of miwin #365.” for maps, highway rest area map Our fi rst major stop was at the contemporary Pow-wows. “Gdaa-maawnjidimi oodi ziibiing!” stops and most important, the Smithsonian’s National Museum BAAPIK! Bmaadiziwin zaam dkwaa!! need for a driver who has the gift of the American Indian (NMAI), Ka-waabmigo oodi ziibiing! of “The Force”. Now e-mails which recently opened in 2004. Karen J. Pheasant, The song leader stood very cautiously and announced with a smile, and text messages circulate prior The GPS took us to the front Anishinabe of Wikwemikong nearly laughing, to departure providing the travel door, amidst the confusion and resides on Manitoulin Island, “For our closing song, let us sing Hymn #365 logistics. expressway tangle of Washington is in completion of her English “Shall We Gather at the River.” This past February I went to D.C. The entranceway is Literature studies (L.U.), as well SMILE! Life is too short not to !! the Seminole Tribe 37th Annual impressive, inviting, warm is a former Creative Writing See you at the river. Tribal Fair pow-wow in Florida. and refl ective of true Native Instructor with the Enowkin I drove with a friend who had a American Identity (Architect Centre, Penticton B.C.

Indian Art/Crafts 10.25x2 Page 24 Anishinabek News June 2008 Kinoomaagewin/Education Algoma teachers take classes in Anishinaabe studies By Roberta Mary McEwen SAULT STE. MARIE –The Algoma District School Board called on some fi rst-class resources to introduce teachers in its northeastern Ontario catchment area to the new Native-focus Education Policy Framework being introduced across Ontario this fall. The Algoma board staged a May 8-9 Aboriginal Symposium entitled Kinoomawaaying g’E’Kinoomaagenig, Kinoomowaaying gdo Kinoomaagnag, Anishnaabe Ganawaamdamig – “Educating Our Educators, Educating Our Students; an Aboriginal Focus” . The two-day event focused on educating our educators on Aboriginal culture, traditions and learning styles of First Nations, Metis, and Inuit students. Keynote speaker Eddie Benton-Banai –“Bawdwaywidun Banaise– “Our children have a culture and traditions and they should feel proud of who they are as First Nation People.” Nelson Toulouse spoke on the importance of language, and the need for Native children and youth have access to language speakers, elders and resources that are specifi c to the Native population and refl ect Aboriginal cultures. James Roach presented on teaching of the Medicines and their signifi cance. Jeannette Corbiere-Lavell – who in May was appointed the fi rst Citizenship Commissioner of the Anishinabek Nation – explained Status as defi ned by the Indian Act. Her fi ght against the discriminatory provisions of the Indian Act helped lead to the passage of Bill C-31 in 1985. A variety of workshops provided insight into Aboriginal cultures. Bryan Brisard from the Ministry of Education spoke on the “Ontario First Nation, Métis, and Inuit Education Policy Framework” document released by the government in June 2007, which envisions prosperous and healthy Aboriginal communities that will create a better future for Aboriginal children and youth. Ontario and Aboriginal leaders recognize the importance of education in improving lifelong Each day’s session of the Algoma District School Board symposium for teachers began with traditional opportunities for First Nation, Métis, and Inuit children and youth. drumming. ‘We don’t know enough Pursuing about each other’: Banai Shingwauk’s By Michael Purvis Sault Daily Star vision SAULT STE. MARIE – Racism, passed down over generations, still Renowned teacher Edward prevents native youth from getting the kind of education they deserve, Benton-Banai will lead the says a prominent Ojibway educator and an early leader in the Ameri- Anishinaabe Studies program at can Indian Movement. Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig, Eddie Benton-Banai addressed teachers, principals and school ad- the Sault-based post-secondary ministrators from a variety of Northern Ontario boards as the keynote learning institute destined to be speaker for a two-day symposium hosted by Algoma District School a First Nations university. Board. Shingwauk Education Trust, “I think the biggest (barrier) is long-standing stereotypes, genera- in partnership with Algoma tional racism as well,” Benton-Banai told media. “People don’t like University College, has appointed to disagree with grandmothers, grandfathers even fathers and moms, Benton-Banai to head up a new you know.” four-year degree program, and He told of confronting one school board in the United States on its serve as the institute’s spiritual failure to pass any native students over a nine-year span. and academic advisor. “They never addressed the problem, but they came up with the Eddie Benton-Banai, classic answers: Bawdwaywidun, his spiritual ‘Well, you know those Indians, they don’t want jobs. All they want Ojibway Name, is from the Fish to do is draw welfare, and the girls all they want to do is become preg- Clan. He is also the Grand Chief nant so they can have bigger welfare cheques,’ “said Benton-Banai. of the Three Fires Midewiwin “Those were the answers from white, civilized, well-educated school Lodge. boards.” Eddie is a noted pioneer in “That wasn’t true then, and it’s not true today. . . . So those of you in culture-based curriculum and education: deal with those stereotypes that you have been given from a respected educator, story- your parents and your grandparents,” he said. Benton-Banai pointed to teller, writer and spiritual leader. another barrier, an overwhelming North American mainstream culture Eddie holds a Master’s Degree that is fortifi ed by religion and politics, and to the “continuing exclu- in Education from the University sion,” of other cultures from education. of Minnesota and is the founder There should be “curriculum about other people, not just about na- of the Red School House, an tive people, but about other people. We don’t know enough about each Anishinabe-controlled school other and I think that’s a big barrier,” he said to reporters. for kindergarten to Grade 12 The government is working to correct those issues, said Education Respected Anishinaabe teacher Eddie Benton-Banai was keynote students in Minneapolis. Minister Kathleen Wynne, who attended the symposium. speaker at Algoma symposium.