2017 ctober . 97, O 97, . no

Page 31 Childhood memories Senator Jim Turner from ssue I Page 27 SPECIAL SECTION: SPECIAL Page 3 Métis Nation Permanent Bilateral Mechanism meeting The 2017 MNO Canoe Expedition MNO Canoe The 2017 See our AGA Special Section See our AGA Special

MÉTIS NATION OF ’S MÉTIS NATION AGA

August 19-21 in , Ontario August 19-21 in Kenora, 40025265 Métis Voyageur 2 October 2017, Issue no. 97

The Métis Voyageur October 2017

Produced by the Métis Nation of Ontario Communications Branch: A Julie Cruikshank Mike Fedyk Jacob May MESSAGE Marc St. Germain FROM THE Contributors: Rob Baskey Mike Berg Roly Blanchette Brittany Bowman Rose Boyle PRESIDENT Bridget Brown MARGARET FROH Colleen Brunelle Issac Callaghan Tobias Clarke am pleased to be back to all the events you will be amazed includes meetings the MNO par- John Connor fulfil my duties as Presi- as I was at everything that took ticipated in with federal cabinet Catherine Corbett dent of the great Métis place over the few days of the ministers and the announce- Christine Curran Nation of Ontario (MNO) AGA. The AGA delegates also ment of the recognition of six Marlene Davidson after being on medical left the PCMNO and the MNO new Ontario Métis historic com- Brian Geary leave for the last several public service with homework in munities and the release of the Katie Gervais When I look Donna Grayer months. I want to thank every- the form a large number of res- Ontario Métis root ancestors Ione who sent me their well wish- at the breadth Tammy Hoover olutions. Between now and the reports. As it should be, the bulk Dawn Huddlestone es during my convalescence and and diversity next AGA in Peterborough, MNO of the paper is taken up with sto- Anne Huguenin especially thank MNO Chair citizens can be confident that we ries submitted by MNO citizens Larry J. Ferris France Picotte who so capably of activities will be working to make sure the that describe about what they Yvonne Jensen filled my shoes while I was gone. work to make these resolutions a are doing in their own communi- Diane Kilby I also want to recognize Sharon our citizens reality takes place. ties that build and strengthen the Gerald Lavalee Gran Lecky Cadeau and Senators Joseph Poi- initiate and are whole Métis Nation. When I look Jaime Lefebvre tras and Ray Bergie who also ful- The second special section is at the breadth and diversity of Christa Lemelin filled acting roles in my absence involved in I am dedicated to the impressive Métis activities our citizens initiate and Darlene Lent as well as all the members of the youth of the MNO Canoe Expe- are involved in I am humbled to Christy Lewin Provisional Council of the Métis humbled to be dition who completed their 2200 be in a position of leadership for Glen Lipinski Nation of Ontario (PCMNO) kilometre trek from Ottawa to this great people. Candance Lloyd in a position who kept the Nation steady and Kenora at the AGA. To call this a Jason Madden In the next several months I Annik McBride continuing to move forward. I of leadership remarkable journey is an under- look forward to seeing as many Christina McNeil am very excited to work with statement and you can read all MNO citizens as I can at commu- Danielle Morin them again on advancing the for this great about it in an article by Gerald nity events and during upcoming Liz Morland goals and aspirations of the Métis people.” Lavallee, of the members of this Day ceremonies. Kyl Morrison in Ontario. year’s Expedition. I was very for- Zac Norman This edition of the Métis Margaret Froh tunate to be able to spend some Thank you, Joseph Paquette Voyageur is as usual chock full of President time with the Canoe Expedition Merci, Wendy Stewart Métis Nation of Ontario Jo-Anne Parent stories that attest to the incredi- in Ottawa on National Indige- Marsee. Jennifer Parkinson ble commitment of MNO citizens nous Day and in during France Picotte to building up the Métis Nation. their community visit there and Lisa Pigeau There are two special sections I can tell you that these young Derrick Pont in this paper. One focuses on by PCMNO Region 1 Councilor people are the finest representa- Ronsdale Press the 24th MNO Annual General Theresa Stenlund and the MNO tives of Métis culture and heri- Hank Rowlinson Leanne Rush Assembly (AGA) held in Kenora Sunset Country, Kenora, North- tage that we could ask for. Susan Schank this August. I was very disap- west and Atikokan and Area The paper also has stories Melissa St. Amant pointed that I was not able to Métis Councils to make what was about some of the important Theresa Stenlund attend but this section makes from all accounts one of the best developments that have taken Wendy Stewart me feel like I was there. I must AGAs ever! As you read this sec- place in the area of Métis rights Margaret Froh Jim Turner congratulate all the work done tion and look at the pictures of in the last several months. This president, métis nation of ontario Alex Young

Submissions: Communications Branch Métis Nation Of Ontario 500 Old St. Patrick Street, Unit D Ottawa ON K1N 9G4 mikef@ métisnation.org Métis Voyageur

Publication #: PM40025265 Council Corner Upcoming The Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) benefits immensely from the dedicated RECENTLY MOVED OR MOVING volunteers who are members of its chartered Community Councils. These SOON? Don’t forget to change hard-working individuals spend hundreds of hours building and strengthen- your address with the Registry so Submission ing their Métis communities. that you will continue to receive MNO Councils are the cornerstone of a strong foundation for the MNO in its your Voyageur and updated push toward its inherent right to self-government. MNO councils are important information from the MNO. Deadlines: communication hubs that play a significant role in fostering community empower- ment and development for MNO citizens living within the geographic territory of Call 1-855-798-1006 ext. 2 that council. or send an email to November 3, 2017 Since July, the following MNO community councils have had elections. Thanks registryclerk@Métisnation.org and congratulations go to all the candidates who participated in these elections SUBMISSION POLICY: and to the new council members listed here: January 19, 2018 The MNO encourages contributions from MNO citizens and staff. All submissions are edited to conform to the Canadian Press MNO SUDBURY MÉTIS COUNCIL Style Guide as well as for grammar, repeti- March 16, 2018 tiousness, spelling and to accurately reflect the official names and titles of individuals, organization, bodies and agencies referenced President Secretary Women’s in submissions. May 18, 2018 Richard Sarrazin Nicole MacDonald Representative With the exception of letters to the editor Bernadette Picco and submissions to the family section, all Chair Treasurer submissions should NOT be written in the first person. September 7, 2018 Maurice Sarrazin Jeannine Vaillancourt Councillors The recommended length for a submission Clint Lefebvre is between 400 and 600 words. Submissions Senator Robert Coutu longer than that may be edited for length. November 2, 2018 Richard Meilleur Métis Voyageur October 2017, Issue no. 97 3 NATION

The governing members of the Métis Nation Council including the MNO, met with several federal cabinet ministers as part of the Métis Nation Permanent Bilateral Mechanism. In the spirit of partnership MNO participates in Métis Nation Permanent Bilateral Mechanism leaders meeting in Ottawa by MNO Staff

he -Métis Nation Accord that was signed by the Métis Nation These meetings of Ontario (MNO) demonstrate and the other govern- Ting members of the Métis National there is a new Council (MNC) on April 13 of this relationship year set up a permanent bilateral process that included a number of between the Crown regular meetings between Métis MNO Acting President France Picotte (left) with the Honourable Patricia Hajdu (centre) and Nation leaders and the Prime Min- and the Métis Metis Federation President David Chartrand (right) at the Permanent Bilateral ister and/or various federal cabinet Nation based on Mechanism meeting on September 21. ministers. One of these gatherings, the Métis Nation Permanent Bilat- recognition, rights participate today in the Métis established in the Canada-Métis to strengthen our role in improving eral Mechanism Leaders Meeting, Nation Permanent Bilateral Mecha- Nation Accord includes annual the lives of Métis people in Ontario. took place on September 21 in and respect.” nism Leaders Meeting,” stated Act- meetings with the Prime Minis- We will continue to work to sup- Ottawa. The MNO was represented ing President Picotte. “These meet- ter, semi-annual meetings with the port Métis community health and at the meeting by Acting MNO Pres- – France Picotte ings demonstrate there is a new key Cabinet Ministers and quarter- well-being; creating opportunity for ident France Picotte. Acting MNO President relationship between the Crown ly meetings with various Assistant our Métis children and youth to be Attending the meeting, along and the Métis Nation based on rec- Deputy Ministers and other senior the best they can be; protecting and with the Presidents of all the MNC and Labour; Ginette Petitpas Tay- ognition, rights and respect. We officials on issues of concern to the promoting the Métis Way of Life governing members were Dr. Caro- lor, Minister of Health; and Sea- believe we are now moving for- Métis Nation. and the environment; advancing the lyn Bennett, the Minister of Crown- mus O’Regan, Minister of Veterans ward in the spirit of cooperation “This kind of accountability and self-sufficiency and sustainability Indigenous Relations and North- Affairs. and partnership. We will work with access will significantly advance of our nation; and stimulating eco- ern Affairs; Jane Philpott, Minister Discussion at this meeting the federal government to real- reconciliation between Canada nomic development for our citizens. of Indigenous Services; Jean-Yves focused on veterans, housing, early ize our shared vision of a renewed and the Métis Nation,” stated Act- At the heart of everything that we Duclos, Minister of Families, Chil- learning and child-care; employ- relationship with the Métis peoples ing President Picotte. “The MNO do are our MNO citizens, families dren and Social Development; ment and training; and health. of Canada, for the benefit of all will use these new mechanisms and and communities,” said Acting Pres- Patricia Hajdu, Minister of Employ- “I was pleased, on behalf of Canadians.” our exploratory discussions pro- ident Picotte. ment, Workforce Development the Métis Nation of Ontario, to The permanent bilateral process cess with the federal government

The Metis Nation of Ontario (MNO) ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: is seeking Métis community members If you are interested in REGIONAL who are interested in volunteering their • RAC members review and recommend this position or would time as members of Regional Advisory training proposals through an anonymous like to know more please ADVISORY Committee (RAC) or Métis Awards review process with the assistance of Committee (MAC). These roles offer the Regional Employment and Training contact: COMMITTEE an opportunity to make a valuable Coordinator (RETC). Jade Bourbonnière • Reviews are ongoing however time contribution to the Métis community [email protected] (RAC) across Ontario. RAC and MAC members commitment is limited in nature. assist in the review of employment and • MAC members are required to review or 1-800-263-4889 & training services in keeping with program bursary applications once or twice a year. Principles, Policies and Procedures. • All RAC and MAC business is to be MÉTIS completed by fax, e-mail and/or teleconference wherever possible. MNO AWARDS will provide the tools necessary to assist us with making informed decisions COMMITTEE • RAC/MAC work is strictly voluntary (MAC) Métis Voyageur 4 October 2017, Issue no. 97

Results of groundbreaking Ontario Métis Root Ancestors Project released

by well-recognized historic Métis com- MNO Staff munities within Ontario that include:

• The Rainy River/Lake of the n August 19, 2017, Woods/Treaty 3 Historic Métis at the Métis Nation Community of Ontario (MNO) • Northern 24th Annual Gen- Historic Métis Community eral Assembly in We believe • The Abitibi Inland Historic OKenora, the results of the MNO’s these materials Métis Community Ontario Métis Root Ancestors Proj- • Sault Ste. Marie and Environs ect (the “Project”) were publicly will be helpful Historic Métis Community released. The full results of the • The Mattawa/Ottawa River project are available on the MNO educational and Environs Historic Métis website with a link on the home resources and Community page called “Ontario Métis Root • The Killarney and Environs Ancestors.” tools in creating Historic Métis Community The Project—which included the • The and Environs review and compilation of well over greater awareness Historic Métis Community 100,000 historical records—identi- about Ontario fies hundreds of Métis Root Ances- While these seven historic tors from well-recognized historic Métis history.” Métis communities have pres- Métis communities within Ontario. ently been identified, the MNO The Project took over five years to - France Picotte continues to undertake addi- complete and now represents the Acting MNO President tional historic research for largest collection of publicly avail- the potential identification able genealogical information on available to the Métis in the Prai- of other historic Métis communities Ontario Métis. ries in completing their genealo- in Ontario as well as for new infor- The Project flows from the direc- gies do not assist the descendants of mation that may change or expand tion the MNO received from its cit- many historic Métis communities in these existing communities. izens and communities in prov- Ontario in completing their geneal- MNO Acting President France ince-wide consultations held in ogies in order to obtain MNO citi- Picotte said, “We are extremely 2010-11 and subsequent direction zenship. Instead, Ontario Métis rely proud to be able to launch this from the 2011 MNO Annual Gen- on different documents that identify Project at this year’s Assembly. We eral Assembly to create “a list of Métis families in the historic record. believe this Project will benefit ‘root’ Ontario Métis families that The release of the Métis Root many in applying for citizenship people could simply trace to” and Ancestor materials online will assist within the MNO as well as assist our “a compilation of easily accessible Ontario Métis in completing their existing MNO citizens in applying source materials relevant to genea- genealogies showing they are ances- for MNO Harvesting Cards.” logical research” to assist individ- trally connected to a historic Métis “Moreover, we believe these uals applying for MNO citizenship ancestor as required by the MNO materials will be helpful educa- or Harvester Cards. Registry Policy, which underlies the tional resources and tools in cre- This direction was provided credibility of the MNO Registry. ating greater awareness about to the MNO because; unlike in More specifically, the Project Ontario Métis history generally and During the MNO Annual General Assembly in Kenora, large western Canada, Métis land and identifies hundreds of his- the rights-bearing Métis communi- posters displaying the genealogy of Ontario Métis were money scrip was, for the most part, toric Métis Root Ancestors and ties that the MNO represents today available for viewing. MNO citizens were very excited to view not issued in Ontario. As such, over five thousand descen- throughout the province,” added the posters and in many cases learn about their own ancestry. the extensive Métis scrip records dants of these families from seven Acting President Picotte. Métis Voyageur October 2017, Issue no. 97 5

MNO and Ontario announce identification of historic Métis communities

by developed their own distinctive col- MNO Staff lective identities, each with its own customs, practices, and traditions. While identification of these his- n Tuesday, August toric Métis communities is a sig- 21, 2017, the Métis nificant milestone, this alone does Nation of Ontario not determine who in Ontario is (MNO) and Ontar- The advancement Métis or who holds Métis rights, io were pleased to and recognition nor define Métis harvesting areas or Oannounce that collaborative work territories. has resulted in the identification of of Métis rights Working in partnership with historic Métis communities located the MNO to identify historic Métis throughout Ontario. has always been communities is one of many steps In the spirit of reconciliation, the and remains the on Ontario’s journey of healing and province and the MNO have been reconciliation. It reflects the gov- working together to determine highest priority ernment’s commitment to work whether historic Métis communities for our citizens with Indigenous partners, creating existed in given areas in Ontario. In a better future for everyone in the 2003, the Supreme Court of Canada and communities. province. confirmed in the R v Powley decision “The Métis Nation of Ontario is the existence of a Métis commu- This important pleased and proud to announce the nity in and around Sault Ste. Marie, milestone provides results of our collaborative work with its own distinctive Métis cul- with Ontario in identifying historic ture. This case also recognized that a foundation Métis communities,” stated Acting this community has a Métis right for meaningful MNO President France Picotte, “the to hunt for food. Under the Powley advancement and recognition of framework, the first step to rec- reconciliation Métis rights has always been and ognize Métis rights is identifying as well as future remains the highest priority for whether an historic Métis commu- our citizens and communities. This nity existed in a given area. negotiations with important milestone provides a As a result of this collaboration the Crown on foundation for meaningful reconcil- between Ontario and the MNO, six iation as well as future negotiations additional historic Métis communi- these important with the Crown on these important ties have been identified. These are: issues.” issues.” “Ontario has built a strong part- • The Rainy River / Lake of - France Picotte nership with the Métis Nation of the Woods Historic Métis Acting MNO President Ontario and we are committed to Community advancing meaningful reconcilia- • The Northern Lake Superior tion and fulfilling our constitutional Historic Métis Community obligations to Métis,” stated Min- • The Abitibi Inland Historic Documents outlining the basis for ister of Indigenous Relations and Métis Community determining these are Historic Métis Reconciliation David Zimmer, “in • The Mattawa / Ottawa River Communities have been posted on circumstances where there are over- Historic Métis Community the MNO website. A link on the lapping obligations to First Nations • The Killarney Historic Métis home page entitled “Historic Métis and Métis, Ontario is committed to The Ontario Métis root ancestors genealogy maps Community Communities in Ontario” provides working together with affected part- displayed at the MNO Annual General Assembly received a • The Georgian Bay Historic Métis access to the documents. ners to reach fair and balanced reso- lot of attention. Community These historic Métis communities lutions.” Métis Voyageur 6 October 2017, Issue no. 97

Bonnie Cann speaks at the Women’s Gathering prior to the MNO AGA in Kenora this past August. MNO Women’s Council MNO Métis Youth Wellness receives funding through Status of Women Canada Engagement technical submitted by council Women’s Representatives Lisa Pigeau across the province, and help them MNO Manager of Ending Violence to build their networks, resources platform launched Against Indigenous Women and collaboration opportunities. The first such opportunity to submitted by developed by Métis youth for grounded services within the benefit from this project occurred Wendy Stewart Métis youth and is currently being MNO, their community coun- he next three years are going August 16th and 17th in Kenora MNO Manager of Mental Health piloted after its internal launch at cils and other Métis forums and to be pretty exciting for the (see page B12) and already we are and Addictions the MNO Youth Council Con- activities. As this tool continues TMétis Nation of Ontario seeing movement toward outcomes ference held prior to the MNO to evolve in consultation with the (MNO) Women’s Council and that will have a tremendous posi- Annual General Assembly in Métis Wellness working group, the chartered MNO community tive impact for Métis women and tatistics in Canada show that August 2017 (see page B10). it is asked that you or others you council’s Women’s Representatives the MNO community as a whole. one in five Canadians suffer This technical tool can be know become involved in the due to the success of their recent The Women’s Representatives have Sfrom Mental Health issues. downloaded from #MNOWellnessRevolution! funding application to Status of begun to strengthen their leader- For various reasons, including keepingitriel.com where it can The MNO would like to thank Women Canada. The goals of this ship abilities and have stated that stigma and insight, only 20% of be used on a mobile device or the working group for their sig- funding are to increase leadership this will impact their community those suffering seek and receive computer. It administers a self- nificant contributions to date. skills and strategies for meaningful engagement and commitment as a help. Looking specifically at the guided mental wellness tool to get The group will be meeting again participation of the Métis women’s whole to their role in the political Métis population here in Ontario, Métis youth thinking about their shortly to add participants and representatives in the MNO’s deci- environments they connect with the numbers show that Métis personal wellness and offers access to enhance this tool’s continued sion-making processes; develop now and in future. The importance youth are even less likely to seek to MNO and other resources to relevance and responsiveness and implement a Métis culture and desire for building their rela- help. address mental wellness needs to emerging needs. At the same based gender lens for policy devel- tionships and networks within the In an effort to reach out to in their region. The connection time, the MNO continues work to opment, governance and decision MNO and in their communities to Métis youth, 15-29 years of age, to community and culture are expand the types of mental health making that can be applied at the support reconciliation and to raise a Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) additional pillars to wellness and and addiction services available to local and broader levels of govern- the understanding of the realities Métis Youth Wellness Engage- as such, this tool endeavours to all Métis people. ment; and create opportunities for and significance of Métis women ment technical platform has been connect Métis youth to culturally mobilization and mentorship for and girls through Métis culture Métis women leading to increased and history, is palpable. social and economic opportunities The women are proud of the If you have any questions or suggestions or would like to join the working group, please contact: for Métis women and girls. work they have done to date, and Wendy Stewart, MNO Manager of Mental Health and Addictions This funding will support the are in the process of planning the [email protected] transportation, communication evolution of the project over the 613-798-1488 ext. 125 and skill building costs for all of next three years. the MNO chartered community

Via Rail now offers MNO citizens a discount on fares ecently Via Rail started a program that brought this issue to his attention. Acting President President Picotte on September 11 and informed provided discounted fares to Indigenous Picotte wrote: “As one of Canada’s three recognized her that Via Rail had reviewed its criteria for the peoples. Upon investigation, however, it Aboriginal people we would urge Via Rail to Indigenous discount to better identify passengers was noticed that within the initial terms of reconsider this approach. The Métis Nation in Canada who are eligible including those who are citizens of the program there was no provision for does have democratically-elected, province-wide the MNO. President Desjardin-Siciliano wrote: “ . . . we Métis inclusion. governance structures from Ontario westward . . . sincerely thank you for raising these important points. Concerned about this exclusion, on June 5, 2017, These governance structures represent the needs and In the spirit of reconciliation, VIA Rail aims to foster RMétis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Acting President interests of their citizenship and maintain a registry of stronger and more meaningful relationships with France Picotte wrote Yves Desjardins-Siciliano, the citizenship upon registration criteria.” Indigenous Peoples in Canada by welcoming them on President and Chief Executive Officer of Via Rail, and President Desjardins-Siciliano responded to Acting board our trains.” Métis Voyageur October 2017, Issue no. 97 7

MNO Veterans’ Council MNO veteran meets Joseph Boyden and Les Stroud submitted by R.M. (Rob) Baskey MNO citizen & veteran

n February 23, 2017, Métis Nation of Ontario O(MNO) veteran and Staff Sergeant R.M. (Rob) Baskey of the Moosonee Office in the James Bay Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Detachment met with renowned Canadian author Joseph Boyden and Les Stroud the at the home of Pam and William Tozer in Moosonee. MNO Veteran Paul Pirie and MNO Veterans’ Council President The Tozers run a camp called Joseph Paquette. Onakawana on the Abitibi River just south of Moosonee. Both Joeseph Boyden and Les Stroud Photo by Antonio Melendez – Heartisan Films. MNO veteran receives attend the camp as guests and (Left-right): Canadian author and Indigenous activist Joseph often bring family and friends. Onakawana does a great deal of Boyden, Staff Sergeant of James Bay Detachment in Moosonee Louis Riel certificate youth engagement and provides R.M. (Rob) Baskey and Survivorman Les Stroud. submitted by land-based programs for kids of Jospeh Paquette, MNO Veterans’ Council President all ages to learn traditional skills; at Onakawana. His family and for Métis Veterans and their fami- hunting, fishing, trapping and extended family all contribute to lies, through awareness programs, extreme weather survival. It is also teaching, encouraging and foster- education and by attending events his year at the 2017 Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Annual a destination for moose hunters ing a traditional lifestyle. important to Métis veterans. The General Assembly (AGA) in Kenora, MNO veteran Paul Pirie and snowmobilers. Baskey presented Boyden and MNO strives to recognize Métis Treceived his Louis Riel certificate. William Tozer is a local celeb- Stroud with the MNO Veterans’ veterans and their unique role in Paul was presented with the Louis Riel medal in 2016, when he rity in Moosonee as a hunter, Council Métis Veterans Book Fight- shaping Canadian history and their resided in . Paul and his family recently moved from Fort trapper, guide, pilot and all-round ing for Canada Before There Was role in peacekeeping and non- Frances to Barrie. outdoorsman. He has worked a A Canada. The MNO Veterans’ peacekeeping missions. The MNO Veterans’ Council wishes Paul and his family the best in life time on establishing the camp Council promotes and advocates the recent move.

Contributions Rates & for business security plans and Financing up customized ongoing to $1,000,000 to promote support for resources Métis and related business sector success businesses

mvdf.ca Métis Voyageur 8 October 2017, Issue no. 97

NORTH AMERICAN INDIGENOUS GAMES

MNO plays a big role in 2017 North American Indigenous Games by MNO Staff

n July 16 and 22, 2017, Métis Nation of Ontar- io (MNO) Vice-Chair Sharon Cadeau and MNO Toronto and York Region Métis Council (TRYMC) Senator Constance Simmonds, along with other OCanadian leaders, participated in the opening and closing ceremonies at the 2017 North American Indigenous Game (NAIG) in the Aviva Centre in Toronto. The NAIG opening ceremony was a spectacular event, show- casing the diversity of Indigenous communities across Ontario, with Indigenous musical performances from across Turtle Island. Leaders from all levels of government, Indigenous lead- ership and honoured guests, welcomed over 5000 athletes, 2000 volunteers and thousands of spectators, to what was a colourful and exciting fusion of sport and culture.

MNO SYCP Facilitators ... gave their time to educate students about Métis culture through traditional MNO Chief Operating Officer Joanne Meyer, MNO Vice-Chair Sharon Cadeau, Premier of Ontario Kathleen Wynne, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation David Zimmer, and Elder Gary Sault with other officials at the voyageur games, jigging and dot art opening of the North American Indigenous Games. workshops.

The open ceremony featured choreography and world renowned dancer Santee Smith, in addition to a number of award winning Indigenous musical artists, representing Métis communities. The ceremony, which marked the beginning of the eight-day international, multi-sport and cultural event, also featured a parade of athletes, uniting individuals and communities in a celebration of past, present and future. The 2017 NAIG took place from July 16-23, 2017, with 14 sport categories being held within world-class venues located across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), including the Region of Hamilton and Six Nations of the Grand River. The closing ceremony was an opportunity for athletes to celebrate their achievements through cultural performances, remarks spoken from leadership, activities and a music dance party. The Toronto 2017 NAIG closing ceremony was a celebra- MNO Summer Youth Culture Program students lead activities and provide Métis cultural demonstrations as part of tion of athlete success. the cultural element of the NAIG.

Métis youth part of silver medal Team Ontario effort at NAIG submitted by Yvonne Jensen, MNO North Channel Métis Council President

y Showan, the son of Métis annual Mexican Baseball Fiesta in Tus- Nation of Ontario (MNO) citi- con, Arizona. Tzen Todd Showan of Thessalon, is This year Ty was named to Team enjoying great success playing baseball. Ontario for NAIG in the under 17 years The MNO North Channel Métis Coun- of age category. To support Ty’s partici- cil was proud to support Ty as part of pation in the Games the MNO North the Team Ontario at the North Ameri- Channel Council provided him with can Indigenous Games (NAIG) earlier $500.00. The Council was very proud this year. to support Ty being part of this special Ty, who is only 14, plays middle event. infield, short stop, second and first NAIG took place in Toronto from base. He played in the Soo Blacksox July 16-23 and Team Ontario’s baseball Baseball program for several seasons team won all but two of its games and and represented the City of Sault Ste. finished with the silver medal. Ty was Marie at the Ontario Provincial Baseball an excellent representative of the Métis Association championships. In 2015, Ty Nation and everyone at the MNO North Ty Showan playing proudly played on Team Canada in the Channel Métis Council is very proud of first base. under 13 years of age category in the him. Métis Voyageur October 2017, Issue no. 97 9

NORTH AMERICAN INDIGENOUS GAMES

Inspiration was all around us Métis athlete reflects on the North American Indigenous Games

Isaac Callaghan competed and won medals in 13 swimming events at the North American Indigenous Games, making him one of the most medaled athletes at the games. The following article represents the perspective of Isaac Callaghan and does not necessarily reflect At other the policies or positions of the Métis Nation of Ontario. competitions the submitted by “other” is an Isaac Callaghan MNO Citizen opponent and someone who stands

he North American Indigenous in the way of your Games (NAIG) took place July 15-22 in Toronto and was goal. At NAIG the the largest sporting and cul- other athletes are tural gathering of Indigenous Isaac Callaghan shows his prowess in the pool with a masterful butterfly stroke. Peoples in North America. your ‘relations,’ NAIG hosted more than 5,000 participants, and though you T2,000 volunteers and countless spectators for 14 sport categories held in world-class ven- still would like to ues located across the Greater Toronto Area, including the Region of Hamilton and the Six win the event, these Nations of the Grand River. ‘others’ are your NAIG was a wonderful cultural and sporting event where all athletes had an opportunity cousins; and you’re to make friendships with many others from around Turtle Island. Teams from nine different likely to cheer on American states joined with teams from all ten your cousins just as Canadian provinces and three territories. Each athlete, coach and chaperone brought their they cheer for you.” own story and added to the spirit and culture – Isaac Callaghan that permeated the games. Many dignitaries and elders gave stirring speeches and offered prayers for the athletes. I can only imagine how much time, effort, and money must have gone into the organization of NAIG and all the cul- between competing at NAIG and competing tural events. When I think about this, all I can in other competitions. At other competitions do is be grateful and say my quiet thank you to the “other” is an opponent and someone who people like: Marc Laliberte, Chair of the NAIG stands in the way of your goal. At NAIG the Bid Committee and President of ASWCO; other athletes are your ‘relations,’ and though Marcia Trudeau, CEO of NAIG; all the orga- you still would like to win the event, these nizing teams of people involved; as well as the ‘others’ are your cousins; and you’re likely to host nations that welcomed us; and of course Isaac won a total of 13 medals at Isaac meets MNO Toronto York Métis Council cheer on your cousins just as they cheer for the sponsors that footed the bill for the games. the North American Indigenous Senator Constance Simmonds at a reception you. It’s like playing a game of cards at a family All these efforts were huge! Games. hosted by the Lieutenant Governor of reunion. Winning the hand is cool, but playing Inspiration was all around us at NAIG. Right Ontario. the game with family members is the real prize. from the Opening Ceremony where we heard The theme for this NAIG was “WE ARE ALL from all the dignitaries that continue to work #TEAM 88”. This theme taken from the Truth so hard for us, the young people from their and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: communities; for some this might seem like incomplete or unavailable), but the 13 medals heart. Commitment, perseverance and enjoy- Calls to Action section 88, which calls for con- just more dull speeches, but if you were there I’ve won at NAIG (seven gold, three silver, ment of the sport are also part of heart. Dedi- tinued support of Indigenous sport. I had the you could tell they were genuine people and three bronze) puts me at or near the top of the cation is also required of the coach and from opportunity to meet Her Honour, the Hon- sincerely concerned about us. Performers like individual medal count. So, perhaps all this the family members who will provide the ride, ourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Lieutenant- Taboo from Black Eyed Peas, Jennifer Kriesberg allows me to speak with some authority. the time and the funds for their young athlete. Governor of Ontario, the Honourable David from Ulali, and A Tribe Called Red, serve as The real “three things” required to reach the At NAIG 2014 in Regina, I was one of the Zimmer, the Minister of Indigenous Relations role models to all Indigenous youth. Though higher levels in your sport are: opportunity, young athletes and I was lucky enough to have and Reconciliation and NAIG Chief Execu- these performers all come from different instruction, and dedication. Without a venue my Dad as a chaperone and to have my home tive Officer Marcia Trudeau during the games. styles of music the sound of the drum could to practice at, one will never get to those high team coach, Sharon Leger, as the coach for I heard from these people and others that sup- be heard throughout. The Ka’wahi Dancers levels or even just to the basic levels for that Ontario swimming team. I credit Sharon with port of Indigenous athletes is important. I hope truly moved and amazed us with their inter- matter. So a venue for sport is an important helping me stay interested and teaching me the this support from all levels of Government and pretation of all the different music genres. Per- part of opportunity. There was a line in the finer skills of swimming. This year, at NAIG also of Corporations will continue. There are haps most moving was when one of our own, a movie, Field of Dreams: “If you build it, they 2017 I must give many thanks to the coaching too many stories of Indigenous youth with NAIG soccer player, Mary Nahwegahbow sang will come.” Building the venue is a require- staff of Laura McPhie and Maria del Carmen poor outcomes. I believe those outcomes could the national anthems in English, French, and ment, which in turn requires a willingness to Escobar. At the Pan Am Pool, I was one of the have been different if those young people had Ojibwe. build the venue and the funds to construct and senior swimmers and a NAIG veteran. I nat- sport in their lives. I’ve been a competitive swimmer for almost maintain the venue. Simply the venue’s pres- urally took to cheering on and encouraging I was one of the lucky ones who received a decade now and I think it is true of any ath- ence will create interest in the sport it houses. the younger swimmers on the team as I had support from my local [MNO community lete that a major motivator in any sport is a The next thing required in sport is good learned from my coaches. Back at the dorms, council in Sudbury] council (Special thanks to desire to win your event. To reach the higher Instruction. A good coach can make all the dif- the boys on the team hung out and took our Maurice Sarrazin) to attend the North Amer- levels in your sport requires three things: prac- ference in the world for a young person just meals together. We bonded like cousins. ican Indigenous Games. Now it is up to all of tice, practice, practice. The five and six prac- getting into a sport. A good coach not only Cousins who haven’t seen much of each other, us from #TEAM 88 to speak up in support of tices per week, year upon year, allowed me teaches skills and rules but also fosters interest but they share a familial history and now have sport for Indigenous youth. We now must tell some insight. Certainly, success is nice. Win- within the athlete. a bonding event like NAIG to bring them closer all of our cousins on Turtle Island of the power ning medals is nice! It’s impossible for me to Thirdly, dedication is required to improve in together. of sport and help them to get to the next NAIG know for certain (records of early Games are sport. Dedication in the athlete is also known as This perhaps is the biggest difference family gathering. Métis Voyageur 10 October 2017, Issue no. 97 COMMUNITY

Members of the MNO Summer Youth Cultural Program who provided workshops for students of St. Christopher’s Catholic School. (Left to right) Liam Blore, Megan Southwell, Courtney Donavon-McCarthy, Eleni Pappas, Taylor Muloin. MNO Summer Youth Cultural program staff visit Oshawa school submitted by Christine Curran, MNO Citizen

he Métis Nation of Métis drummers from the MNO Ontario (MNO) Sum- ODRMC gave their time to teach mer Youth Cultural Pro- students drumming techniques. gram (SYCP) staff and Senator Wagar welcomed students citizens of the MNO and MNO citizens Kathy Bazley TOshawa and Durham Region Métis and Christine Bazley educated stu- Council (ODRMC) were invited to dents on different Métis artifacts St. Christopher Catholic School to through a fascinating hands on dis- educate students about Métis cul- play that included furs, feathers, ture and heritage on June 7, 2017. Métis flag, Métis sash and other Wanting to educate and honour items. This hands-on approach of Indigenous culture, learning helped the the Principal Mrs. students gain more Bartlett and orga- MNO SYCP of an understanding nizing committee of Métis culture and invited MNO staff Facilitators heritage. and citizens to edu- ... gave their To ensure that cate students about students experi- Métis culture and time to educate enced each Métis heritage. The educa- students about workshop, they tional event was held were divided into at the Camp Samac Métis culture small groups and location just North through rotated through the of Oshawa where the traditional different stations students could learn set up by the MNO while enjoying the voyageur SYCP leaders. These outdoors surrounded games, jigging groups of students by forests and nature. were sectioned During the two and dot art throughout the out- day event the MNO workshops. door camp grounds, SYCP Facilitators led while the drum- by Eleni Pappas, gave ming group was their time to educate inside a historic log MNO Oshawa and Durham students about Métis cabin on the Camp Métis Council Senator Cecile culture through traditional voyageur Samac grounds. School volunteers Wagar (above) worked with games, jigging and dot art work- also led an outdoor scavenger hunt, the MNO Summer Youth shops. Students had fun learning the fire pit and in building a shelter in Culture Program students to jigging steps and proudly showed the forest. provide cultural workshops and off their dot art skills while also St. Christopher Catholic School demonstrations including those being educated about who the Métis staff and students had a fun and suc- featured in these pictures. people are. cessful learning experience thanks to MNO Senator Cecile Wagar and the MNO and the MNO SYCP. Métis Voyageur October 2017, Issue no. 97 11 Métis art and dance workshop in Renfrew submitted by Annik McBride MNO Community Wellness Coordinator

n July 13, 2017, Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) staff from MNO ORenfrew office offered a Dot Paint- ing and Métis Jigging Workshop to 64 chil- dren ranging from age 2 to 12 years old. The workshop took place at Garderie Les Petites Mains in Pembroke as part of its summer culture program. The children were taught the history behind dot painting and they all had the opportunity to create their own dot painting masterpieces. The children were then taught the tra- ditional Rabbit Dance. They were first instructed in individual steps before putting all the steps together and participating in a full traditional Rabbit Dance at the end of the workshop. The young people were able to learn a little about the Métis Culture while also having a lot of fun! Participants in the Dot Painting and Jigging Workshop proudly show off their creations.

(Left-right): Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) chair Sandy Annunziata thanks MNO (Left-right): MNO Great Lakes Métis Council members Senator Niagara Region Métis Council President Derrick Pont, after the NPCA Board of Directors approved Ralph Wolf Thistle and Office Coordinator Susan Schank. the addition of a member of the Council to the NCPA Community Liaison Advisory Committee addition of a member of the Council to the NCPA Community Liaison Advisory Committee MNO representative MNO Senator speaks added to Niagara Peninsula at Indigenous 150+ Conservation Authority event in Owen Sound submitted by advice on the implementation of the wants to ensure there is no harm submitted by Indigenous 150+ was described Glen Lipinski, MNO Community strategic plan and any other issues to the environment, way of life or Susan Schank, MNO Great Lakes as honouring a movement to “put Relations Coordinator the Board requests. The change in impact to waters. Métis Council Office Coordinator Indigenous voices at the centre of membership adds another voice to “The Métis Nation is honoured to the commemoration and Canada’s the committee, which represents a be moving forward with a relation- Adapted from a story by 150th anniversary.” mix of stakeholders, including the ship with the NPCA,” said Presi- Scott Dunn that appeared at The Indigenous 150+ event he Niagara Peninsula Con- environment, agriculture, land- dent Pont, who presented the Board owensoundtimes.com addressed two of the 94 Calls to servation Authority is add- owners, development, industry and of Directors with a sash, which will Action made in 2015 by the Truth Ting an Indigenous voice to volunteer sectors. be displayed at the NPCA’s head- and Reconciliation Commission its Community Liaison Advisory MNO NRMC President Der- quarters in Welland to signify their of Canada by fostering co-opera- Committee. rick Pont, said the agency and the partnership with the MNO. n June 22, 2017, Métis tion between Indigenous and non- On May 17, 2017, the Métis Council have similar objectives. He NPCA Chair Sandy Annun- Nation of Ontario (MNO) Indigenous people and creating Nation of Ontario (MNO) Niagara said they are looking forward to ziata said the relationship with the OGreat Lakes Métis Coun- ways to work together. Region Métis Council (NRMC) had adding their voice to the CLAC. MNO Council comes as a result of cil (GLMC) Senator Ralph Wolf “I want other Canadians to know a member appointed to the Com- “We share a lot of common meeting with partners over the last Thistle and Office Coordinator that this is Métis and First Nations munity Liaison Advisory Com- values. A lot of our way of life several months. He said expanding Susan Schank participated in the land that we stand on,” said Sen- mittee (CLAC) alongside two mem- revolves around harvesting. For us the representation to include the Indigenous 150+ event in Owen ator Thistle. “And the Métis and bers from the public at large. The it’s also medicine plants and wild Métis “allows for continuous dia- Sound. The event was launched to the First Nations were a big part of change comes as part of an amend- berries and other foods we can har- logue and creates opportuni- help non-Indigenous people gain the building of this nation.” ment to the committee’s terms of vest,” President Pont told Board ties that will help strengthen our a better understanding of their The founding partners of reference. members during the meeting. “We relationship.” Indigenous neighbours. Indigenous 150+ included the The CLAC was formed as part look out for protecting the waters “The NPCA is committed to Senator Thistle provided a brief M’Wikwedong Native Cultural of the Niagara Peninsula Conser- and we watch to make sure there is hearing from all of our partners’ history of the Métis history and Centre, the MNO GLMC, First Peo- vation Authority (NPCA)’s 2014- no damage done to the lands.” voices,” Annunziata said during the culture and also answered ques- ples Group, City of Owen Sound, 2017 strategic plan with the goal President Pont said the Council meeting, adding the goal is to build tions from attendees. City of Niagara Falls, Ontario of expanding public participation wants to ensure due diligence further partnerships and maintain Indigenous 150+ was at the Roxy Power Generation, NationTalk and to support NPCA governance and on Indigenous issues takes place dialogue with all stakeholders. “We Theatre and included prayers, the Ontario Arts Council. to provide a collaborative local during any large projects being look forward to hearing your voice drumming, Métis teaching and the perspective, guidance and expert developed and added the Council around the table.” screening of two short films. Métis Voyageur 12 October 2017, Issue no. 97

Members of the Original Voices Youth Circle. Original Voices Indigenous Youth Circle submitted by decided to call the Original Voices school board’s First Nations, Métis Nations), Lois McCallum (Métis) Mélanie-Rose is also involved Christina McNeill Youth Circle. The name Original and Inuit (FNMI) education team and Meeka Kakudluk (Inuit) dis- with “Carriers of Youth Wisdom: MNO Family Wellbeing Coordinator Voices was created as the youth felt so they are able to voice their con- cuss their cultural views on Indig- Enhancing Indigenous Educa- that they wanted to represent how cerns and individual experiences to enous education in schools as well tion Through Co-Creation” which their ancestors, the original people make schools a more pleasant cul- as hear from Métis keynote speaker helped motivate youth to provide fter feeling culturally iso- and voices of Turtle Island, would tural experience for all. Mélanie-Rose Frappier. feedback through breakout sessions lated and misunderstood have wanted to see this country On June 1, 2017 The Original Mélanie-Rose is well-known in the afternoon with the Métis in their local high schools flourish and carry on traditions Voices, helped organize and host within the Métis Nation of Ontario Family Wellbeing Coordinator. across Ottawa, sev- passed down from the generations the first ever Indigenous Youth because of her involvement in the After such a successful sympo- eralA Métis, First Nations and Inuit before them. Symposium in collaboration with annual MNO Infinite Reach March sium, which highlighted huge gaps youth banded together to improve These youth activists and cham- the local school board’s FNMI edu- Break Camp and for the recognition in the education system impacting the educational experiences of pions of culture have created their cation team. This event allowed she has received for her cultural Indigenous students, the Original Indigenous youth in Ottawa. Along own agenda of cultural activities Indigenous students from across and community leadership Voices hope to begin to advocate with the Métis Nation of Ontar- and events they would like to see the greater Ottawa area to voice Mélanie-Rose is a champion for for change and address these gaps io’s (MNO’s) Ottawa Métis Family implemented in education system their concerns, suggestions and change and a Métis youth activist in the education system over the Wellbeing Coordinator and other to create a culturally-safe and wel- improvements for Indigenous cul- who provides inspiring mes- course of the next year. Indigenous service providers, these coming experience for all Indige- tural support and curriculum for sages and workshops to youth youth created a biweekly meeting nous children and youth in Ottawa. students. The students gathered across Ontario. Mélanie-Rose is space and platform to share their The group also has a direct line in the morning sessions to listen a founderof the non-profit orga- collective experiences that they of communication to the Ottawa to elders Thomas Louttit (First nization “It’s Cool to be Healthy.”

MNO participates in Jesuit canoe pilgrimage event

Opinions expressed in this article Mary-Kelly McCormick, MNO reflect those of the writer and do not Summer Youth Cultural Program necessarily represent the positions or Lead Laura Lamore and MNO cit- policies of the Métis Nation of Ontario. izen Bridget Brown. They were on hand to encourage the paddlers submitted by and share knowledge of the Métis Bridget Brown culture. MNO Citizen Among the residential schools that operated in this district was an all-boys school located in the town group of Métis Nation of of Spanish that operated for about Ontario (MNO) staff and 45 years. Around the same time the citizens participated in boy’s school was running, an all- events around a Canoe girl residential school was operating PilgrimageA when the paddlers from close by. Nuns belonging to the this group reached Sault Ste. Marie Roman Catholic teaching order, the this summer. The Canoe Pilgrimage Daughters of the Heart of Mary, ran was part of reconciliation efforts by this school. Jesuits, an order of Roman Catholic Both schools were originally priests, who once operated a resi- located in Wikwemikong First Nation dential school. on Manitoulin Island and relocated

In 1967, in honour of Canada’s one Photo by Trevor Scott, canoepilgrimage.com to Spanish in the early 1900’s. hundredth anniversary and with the Indigenous children from Man- intention of promoting ecumenical The participants in the Canoe Pilgrimage paddling together. itoulin Island, the shores of Lake dialogue among all faiths, 24 Jesuits Huron and Lake Superior, Parry and other priests completed a canoe In the summer of 2017, inspired communities along the way, many encouragement the different com- Sound, Ottawa Valley, Chapleau, pilgrimage following the historic fur by the Truth and Reconciliation of which were impacted by resi- munities they’ve stopped at along Temagami, New Liskeard and from trading route that starts in Midland Commission Final Report and Can- dential schools. Many of the pad- the way. Northern Quebec were forced to and ends in Montreal. This route ada’s one hundred and fiftieth anni- dlers have said the trip would not One of the scheduled stops for leave their families and attend. had been in use since the 1600’s; versary, 30 Indigenous, English, be possible without the support and the canoeists was the Sisters of St. Together, both schools formed around the time of the first con- French and Jesuit canoeists set out Joseph of Sault Ste. Marie, com- largest residential school in Ontario. tact between Europeans and Indig- on a similar pilgrimage with the monly known as the Motherhouse. Efforts like the Canadian Canoe enous people began. People like St. intention of encouraging learning For more information The canoeists arrived on July 30, Pilgrimage remind us that it is never Jean de Brebouf, a Jesuit priest, and between cultures and acknowl- about the Canadian pitched their tents and stayed for too late to work towards reconcilia- others like Samuel de Champlain edging the role of Jesuits in resi- Canoe Pilgrimage visit two nights. People from the local tion and rebuild broken bonds. began to travel an already estab- dential schools. The tragic history canoepilgrimage.com community were on hand to meet When the Canoe Pilgrimage was lished trading route from Montreal of the residential schools is well the paddlers and there was an in Sault Ste. Marie, Erik Sorensen, to Midland with Indigenous guides known and according to research For research about residential opportunity to learn about each the Project Manager of the 2017 pil- leading the way. This passage has conducted by the Truth and Recon- schools in Spanish conducted other through the many sharing cir- grimage, was asked how things were historical significance as one of the ciliation Commission, one of those by the National Centre for cles that took place that day. going. He said: “We’ve had good main trading routes connecting the schools was operated by the Jesuits. Truth and Reconciliation Among those present at the days and challenging days and there St. Lawrence River to During their trek, the Canoe Pil- please visit nctr.ca sharing circles were MNO Commu- is always a new challenge around before colonization. grimage participants would stop at nity Support Services Coordinator the corner.” Métis Voyageur October 2017, Issue no. 97 13

Métis youth on Beausoleil Island at Camp Kitchikewana Métis youth enjoy Camp Kitchikewana submitted by Georgian Bay and it is one of the first was included and had a wonderful children in two rattlesnake captures returning campers from Kitchener. Larry J. Ferris places Métis settlers stayed when camp experience. This year the chil- (and releases) and one bear sighting. Camp youth councillor Dalton MNO Georgian Bay Métis Council they came to the area. Beausoleil dren participated in traditional fire This year the camp had a mixture Latondress led the campers during Chair Island is named after Louis Beauso- starting using bow and drill, flints, of first time and returning campers. the trip. Latondress handled the leil who was a Métis settler. Beauso- stone and steel. It was amazing how A lot of the youth have never met leadership role gaining the respect leil Island is the second largest fresh- well some of the youth could get the each other before but they soon of the younger campers and several his summer twenty-three water Island in the world making fires started using these methods. became friends. The youth had the other older youth also took on lead- Métis youth attended Camp up the largest part of Georgian Bay They also had the opportunity to opportunity to meet and develop ership roles; assisting the camp and TKitchikewana thanks to the Islands National Parks as well as two canoe and kayak, which was a big hit bonds with each other and find providing great leadership for the support from the Métis Nation of YMCA camps. for the kids. The children hiked in out who else is Métis in their home youth. Ontario (MNO) Georgian Bay Métis Camp Kitchikewana youth stayed the woods learning about medicinal communities. Some of the youth The MNO GBMC thanks April Council (GBMC). on the Island. The camp is staffed by plants from Parks Canada Employee attended the camp from the MNO Bellinger and Ontario Power Gener- Camp Kitchikewana is located on very positive and upbeat Councilors. Shawn Corbiere. Corbiere also per- GBMC’s communities of Barrie ation for providing the funding for Beausoleil Island National Park in The Councilors ensured each child formed moose calling and led the and . There were also some the trip.

Métis trapping display at Maple Syrup festival in Orangeville submitted by Darlene Lent, MNO Credit River Métis Council Treasurer

rom March 11th to 19th, board engaged and educated both 2017, the Credit Valley children and adults. Conservation Author- The CVC Maple Syrup Festival ity (CVC) held its annual offered tours of their maple bush FSugar bush Maple Syrup Festival which included the process of col- at Island Lake in Orangeville and lecting sap and making maple extended an invitation to the Métis syrup, also a deep rooted tradition Nation of Ontario (MNO) Credit in the Métis way-of-life. Included River Métis Council (CRMC) to be at the event was a chainsaw wood involved. carver, many outdoor games, face Left-right: MNO CRMC Jim Tolles and Darlene Lent, both painting and a display on spinning Treasurer Darlene Lent and licensed trappers, offered a display wool. Jim Tolles. which included furs, traps, snow Over the years, the MNO CRMC shoes, an assortment of fur and has developed a positive relation- One young attendee of the leather mitts, coats and hats, and an ship with the CVC and they wel- Maple Syrup Festival took RCMP muskrat hat. Visitors were come what the Métis community a particular interest in the educated about the Métis way-of- offers to the education of the CVC Métis display. life, harvesting and how trapping is visitors. This was the fifth year an integral part of the Métis culture the MNO CRMC has participated and tradition. Taxidermy beaver in the Festival. The popular event mounts, skull specimens, beaver attracted over 2000 visitors this teeth and an interactive display year.

Cultural Knowledge workshops offered in Bancroft submitted by allowed elders and seniors to share their the fun-filled workshop series. The children Rose Boyle, MNO Community Support Services Coordinator knowledge with the children. In this children enjoyed making dream catchers, birch bark gained an understanding of Métis culture and canoes, moccasins and medicine bags. The the importance of promoting cultural knowl- elders and seniors shared stories and taught uring March break 2017, The Métis Lisa Eagles and Rose Boyle. The workshops edge through generations. the children how to make bannock, three sis- Nation of Ontario (MNO) Commu- brought together 15 participants including Together the group engaged in several tra- ters’ soup and hamburger soup. D nity Support Services (CSS) program Métis children, seniors and elders and gave ditional activities during the workshops. The Thank you to Judy and Lisa for sharing at the Bancroft office offered a cultural men- them the opportunity to focus on teachings elders and seniors with the assistance of Judy their knowledge and stories and engaging the toring workshop series led by Judy Simpson, of the four stages of life. The workshop series Simpson, Lisa Eagles and Rose Boyle, led children in the teachings. Métis Voyageur 14 October 2017, Issue no. 97 MNO Credit River Métis Council part of Brampton’s first National Aboriginal Day celebration

submitted by Council President Joseph Paquette Kyl Morrison contributed to the MNO CRMC MNO Credit River Métis Council display by loaning Métis artifacts Outreach and Education and President Paquette also loaned Coordinator various taxidermy specimens such as skunks, deer, beaver, bear and fox. However, the true highlights n June 21, 2017, the for the children were the stick and Métis Nation of Ontar- ring games with the bone or leather io (MNO) Credit River rings; and the fire starting instru- Métis Council (CRMC) ments such as the fire-wheel. Ohad the opportunity to partici- The MNO CRMC display pro- pate in the City of Brampton’s first vided a tactile educational expe- National Aboriginal Day celebra- rience and the teachers expressed tion. Brampton implemented its great appreciation on behalf of the National Aboriginal Day celebra- students. Another exciting element tion to educate the local school of the display was MNO CRMC children on Indigenous issues. In Treasurer Darlene Lent’s workshop addition to MNO CRMC display on making birch bark water cups other activities included Indigenous and bowels. Other MNO CRMC drummers, storytellers and danc- members who helped out at the dis- ers. A major portion of the partici- play included MNO CRMC Presi- pants were from the local elemen- dent Karen Derocher, former MNO tary schools, local residents and CRMC Senator Bill Morrison and people who work in the city core Métis youth Matilda Morrison. where all the National Aboriginal It was a great day for students, Day events took place. teachers, participants and exhibitors (Left-right): MNO CRMC Traditional Knowledge Keeper Jim Tolles, MNO CRMC Treasurer Darlene Traditional Knowledge Keeper who all enjoyed the opportunity to Lent, Métis youth Matilda Morrison and former MNO Senator Bill Morrison take part in National Jim Tolles and MNO Veterans’ learn about Métis culture. Aboriginal Day celebrations.

MNO citizens and staff attend National Aboriginal Day events in

submitted by John Connor, MNO Forestry Coordinator

n June 21, 2017, Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Thunder Bay Métis Council (TBMC) Senator Ken Simard and MNO Summer Youth Cultural Program (SYCP) Omembers Marie Chalykoff, Cassidy Houston and Casandra Gravel manned the MNO booth at the National Aboriginal Day (NAD) celebrations at Prince Arthur’s Landing on the northwestern Ontario city’s waterfront of Thunder Bay. The NAD celebration in Thunder Bay this year brought nearly 8,000 people to the (Left-right) SYCP Facilitator Marie Chalykoff, SYCP Facilitator Cassidy Houston, MNO event. Thunder Bay Métis Council Senator Ken Simard and SYCP Lead Casandra Gravel.

Community Legal Services of Ottawa closes for National Aboriginal Day

submitted by be closed on June 21st from 8:30am 6,750 residential school survivors, Jaime Lefebvre to 1:00pm in honour and recogni- outlined 94 Calls to Action. Many Community Legal tion of National Aboriginal Day. In of the Calls speak to the work we Services of Ottawa 2016, our community legal clinic do as legal advocates for Ottawa’s began taking action to improve our low-income communities. Commu- support for the Indigenous Com- nity Legal Services of Ottawa con- n the morning of June 21, munities of Ottawa. This year, as a firms its commitment to take con- 2017, the Community Legal further demonstration of support, crete steps to fulfill the 94 Calls to OServices of Ottawa offices we are closing our doors for the first Action made by the Truth and Rec- were closed in honour and recogni- time to celebrate this important day. onciliation Commission of Canada, tion of National Aboriginal Day. We call on you and the Government in order to promote healing and The office had drafted a letter of Canada, to support the Truth move towards substantive equality which was sent to the Prime Min- and Reconciliation Commission’s for Canada’s Indigenous people. The ister and various Members of Par- work and formally recognize Cana- closing of our doors will encourage liament and Members of Provin- da’s First Nations peoples by taking and facilitate the ability of staff to cial Parliament. The letter urges the steps to declare June 21st a National participate in reconciliation activi- government and the Ottawa-based holiday as part of your implemen- ties. At this time, we also wish to Members of Parliament and Mem- tation strategy. We are guided by recognize and acknowledge that our Employees of Community Legal Services with Mayor Jim Watson of bers of Provincial Parliament to act the words of Senator Murray Sin- clinics are located on traditional and Ottawa showing their support for Indigenous rights. upon the Calls to Action recom- clair, Chief Commissioner of The unceded territory of the Algonquin mended by The Truth and Recon- Truth and Reconciliation Commis- peoples. Thank you for your time Sinclair, Chief Commissioner of The Indigenous communities of Ottawa. ciliation Commission of Canada. sion, in recognizing that ‘reconcili- and consideration of this matter. Truth and Reconciliation Commis- On June 21, 2017, they closed the The letter stated: We are writing to ation is not an Aboriginal problem, “We have described for you a moun- sion of Canada. doors for the first time on National inform you that the offices of Com- it is a Canadian one.’ The Truth and tain. We have shown you the path In 2016, the community Aboriginal Day. munity Legal Services of Ottawa Reconciliation Commission’s final to the top. We call upon you to do legal clinic began taking action (West, South and Downtown) will report, based on input from over the climbing.” – Senator Murray to improve the support for the Métis Voyageur October 2017, Issue no. 97 15 MNO Atikokan and Area Métis Council welcomes Lieutenant Governor submitted by Marlene Davidson MNO Atikokan and Area Métis Council President

n July 26, 2017, Her Honour, the Honourable A baby in a traditional moss bag. O Elizabeth Dowdeswell, the Lieutenant Governor of Ontar- io participated in a round table with municipal officials in the Atikokan area. Among the officials Moss bag for babies present was Marlene Davidson submitted by bags sooth colic and dramatically who sits on the local council but Tammy Hoover decrease crying, provide longer who is also the President of the The Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Lieutenant Governor of MNO Métis Healthy Babies more contented sleep, sharpen Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Ontario, autographs copies of the book 150 Stories for MNO Healthy Children Coordinator vision, hearing and awareness and Atikokan and Area Métis Council. Atikokan and Area Métis Council Senator Brian Gouliquer and enhance stimulations provided by President Davidson received President Marlene Davidson. a child’s environment and family. permission from the Mayor of n June 29, 2017, in Ban- The moss bag keeps the baby and Atikokan to officially welcome the fur trade and the importance local Atikokan Museum and then croft, Métis Nation of the mother close; allowing babies Her Honour to the area. She also of Crown’s duty to consult and made a trip out to Quetico Park O Ontario (MNO) Métis to see the world as their mothers presented Her Honour with a accommodate with rights-bearing where she saw the Paul Kane Healthy Babies Healthy Children see it and listen to their mothers’ Friendship Ball created by local Métis communities. exhibit. Her Honour is very Coordinators Tammy Hoover and conversations. This allows the Métis Artist , Kristy Cameron. Her Honour also graciously much all about the people and Robin Simpson partnered with the babies to recognize the rhythm At a reception that followed the signed copies of the book 150 Sto- their stories. Hastings Prince Edward Health of their mothers’ breathing, walk- round table, MNO Atikokan and ries, which her office produced to The MNO Atikokan and Area Unit - Food for Two program to ing and touch, which stimulates Area Métis Council Senator Brian commemorate the 150th anniver- Métis Council is grateful to Chief host a traditional gathering for pre the baby’s speech and emotional Gouliquer and President Davidson sary of Ontario. One of the stories Operating Officer Joanne Meyer and post-natal women. The gath- development and fosters a sense of spoke with Her Honour and pro- in the book was written by past for her help in making this all ering included a workshop on safety and security. vided background on Métis his- MNO President Gary Lipinski. happen. how to create moss bags for their Upon completion of moss bag tory including the Métis role in Her Honour also visited the babies. workshop, the women gathered The women were taught how to honour the moss bag teachings to fashion moss bags with their with a smudge and a beautiful hands and learned traditional hand-drum song delivered by the teachings about the moss bag. MNO Victims Services Coordina- These teachings include that moss tor Marsha Depotier.

MNO Peterborough and Districk Wapiti Métis Council members (left-right): Senator Terry Bloom, Dorothy Bloom, Councillor Brad Children having fun at the Railroad Daze Summer Festival in Rainy Rive. Hodgson, Women’s Representative Taryn Blackstock, President Andy Dufrane, Councillor Barbara Card, Chair Christa Lemelin and Councillor Luke Thompson. MNO participates in Railroad MNO Peterborough and Daze Festival in Rainy River District Wapiti Métis Council submitted by MNO staff went to Hannam Park enjoying time with their children. tours Snowy Ridge Wind Park Brittany Bowman in Rainy River where they provided Bridging the gap between Indige- submitted by MNO Métis Family Wellbeing Métis inspired music as a backdrop nous and non-Indigenous people Christa Lemelin Coordinator for a number of other activities. was amazing and hopefully we will MNO Peterborough and District Wapiti Métis Council Chair MNO staff invited festival attendees be able to continue the trend with to join in jigging and answered more inter-cultural events like this ailroad Daze is an annual questions about Métis culture and in the near future. n June 2, 2017, Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Peterborough summer festival that occurs history and anything else Métis Railroad Daze also included and District Wapiti Métis Council (PDWMC) had the opportu- R in Rainy River every July. related that the public wanted to bouncy houses, a dunk tank, a O nity to visit the Snowy Ridge Wind Park near Bethany. The tour This year, the Métis Nation of know about. MNO staff also had water balloon game, face painting, was part of their ongoing learning, education and a continuation from Ontario (MNO) was invited to spoons available for anyone who balloon hand outs and various the renewable energy workshop that the MNO PDWMC hosted in 2016. participate by providing some cul- wanted to learn to play. children themed activities. Rainy Snowy Ridge Wind Park is a ten megawatt (MW) wind energy project, tural entertainment for children Children started out feeling shy River Recreation Centre put on a consisting of five wind turbines. The MNO PDWMC was joined by Erin and other community members. but once they saw other commu- mixed slow pitch baseball tour- Jaggard and Steve Rankin of Capstone Infrastructure. Originally centred around Rainy nity members laughing and having nament and volunteers offered a Capstone Infrastructure commenced construction of the wind park in River’s train station, the purpose of fun they quickly joined in and vendor show, fun fly event, boat July 2016 and it has been operating since October 2016. Erin and Steve the event is now to gather all sur- participated. The event went over rides, duck races and a cardboard facilitated the tour and provided the Council with a wonderful educa- rounding areas and celebrate fami- very well and everyone enjoyed boat race. Overall it was a great tional experience. lies of all cultural backgrounds themselves. It was great to see cul- event for the whole community. The MNO PDWMC wishes to thank Capstone Infrastructure for the and to create a fun family day. tures coming together and families great tour. Métis Voyageur 16 October 2017, Issue no. 97 MNO Grand River Métis Council part of National Aboriginal Day in Guelph and Kitchener

submitted by of the day; and Guelph Mayor Jennifer Parkinson Cameron Guthrie, who welcomed MNO Grand River Métis Council the crowd on behalf of the City and President did a Territorial Acknowledgement. Guelph City Council worked with Elders and Aboriginal community une 21, 2017, National leaders (First Nations, Métis and Aboriginal Day, was another Inuit) over the last year to write a J busy day in the life of the territorial acknowledgement for Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) the City of Guelph that is now read Grand River Métis Council before every Council meeting and (GRMC). For Council members, event in the city. the day started at the Waterloo There was a lot to do and see Region Museum in Kitchener during the three hour celebration where they shared Métis 101 with and the Métis were a big part of it. students from across the Waterloo MNO staff set up an information Region. The day was broken into booth for visitors where Senator four workshops with 30 students Carol Lévis taught people how to 1 at each session. The students had do Métis Dot Art on rocks; Mathew fun learning about Métis culture Carpenter and Councilor Alicia and history while guessing, which Hamilton taught people how to furs came from which animal. They make Woodland beaded bracelets also learned about the Métis sash, using kits and teachings courtesy of Michif, beading and finger weav- First Nations artist Naomi Smith. ing. To finish off, students from Grassroots Catering fed the crowd grades three to five tried Métis tacos, bannock and strawberry jigging. At the end of the day, the juice. The MNO GRMC also had Council members rushed off to a vending table where it sold lots Guelph to set up for their National of Métis crafts, sashes, spoons and Aboriginal Day celebration. swag. Métis jigging with Sterling This was the third year that Laverne from Woodstock and Eliz- 2 MNO GRMC partnered with the abeth from Hamilton and Fiddling City of Guelph to organize their with Cassandra Swan from Niagara National Aboriginal Day celebra- Region were also big hits. tion. Over the last three years, the Other activities during the cel- celebration has grown from 300 ebration included drumming participants to over 1000 this year, from the Guelph Women’s Drum requiring the city to close Carden Circle; Wiijii Numgumook Kwe Street to accommodate the crowd. (In Unity Singers); Inuit drum- MNO GRMC President Jennifer ming with Ame Papatsie; a round Parkinson was one of the digni- dance with the Big Drum courtesy 3 taries participating in the opening of Graham Paradis from Fort Erie; ceremony. She welcomed everyone Women’s Jingle dance with Jennifer on behalf of the Métis Nation and Martin from Six Nations; and Hoop 5 talked about how important the Dancing from National Champion day was to the Métis. Other dig- Hoop Dancer, Ascension Harjo 1) MNO GRMC President Jennifer Parkinson speaking nitaries and performers included: from Six Nations. during the opening ceremonies. 2) The MNO GRMC Adrian Harjo, a First Nations Many were still talking about Vendor table. 3) MNO GRMC Womens’ Representative singer, dancer and storyteller; Elder the event in the community weeks Colleen Brunelle with her daughter Stella Booth Lois MacDonald who provided the later and looking forward to next and MNO GRMC Treasurer Leslie Muma. 4) Mayor opening prayer; Elder Jan Sherman year. Cameron Guthrie with MC Adrian Harjo. 5) Métis fiddler who talked about the importance 4 Cassandra Swan.

MNO leaders take part in National Aboriginal Day Rendezvous at River Mill Park

by Métis Nation of Ontario (PCMNO) Dawn Huddlestone Verna Porter-Brunelle spoke during From a story that originally the opening ceremony. appeared at dopperonline.ca “It’s important to celebrate the people who were here first and how they share this land with us,” said n June 21, 2017, Métis Huntsville Mayor Scott Aitchison. Nation of Ontario (MNO) PCMNO Senator Verna Porter- O citizens, First Nations and Brunelle followed with a Métis prayer Inuit leaders and citizens were in written by MNO Honourary Senator Huntsville attending its annual Ruth Wagner. Senator Porter-Brunelle National Aboriginal Day Celebra- also noted that the spirit of a Ren- tion (NAD) that included a focus on dezvous is similar to a First Nations Métis culture and heritage. pow-wow, but they are not the same Students from Huntsville, Spruce thing. “On June 21, National Aborig- Glen and St. Mary’s schools, as well inal Day, we honour the three Aborig- as members of the public, gathered in inal peoples: Métis, First Nations and River Mill Park to learn more about Inuit. It’s important to distinguish Métis culture. Dignitaries arrived the Métis from the First Nations and at the town docks using canoes from the Inuit, which each have their and then took part in a procession own culture and traditions,” she said. (Left-right): Victor Brunelle, MNO Moon River Métis Council Senator Larry Duval, Honourary of musicians to the River Mill Park Following opening remarks, the Senator Ruth Wagner, Town of Huntsville Manager of Arts, Culture and Heritage Teri Souter, bandshell for a brief presentation. students participated in Métis activi- MNO Councilor Pauline Richardson, MNO Moon River Métis Council President Tony Muscat, Huntsville Mayor Scott Aitchison ties and games, including dot art and Member of the Provincial Parliament Norm Miller, Mayor Scott Aitchison, PCMNO Senator Verna and the Provisional Council of the bannock making. Porter-Brunelle and MNO Moon River Métis Council Chair Bonny Cann. Métis Voyageur October 2017, Issue no. 97 17 MNO office officially opens in Brampton submitted by Catherine Corbett MNO Métis Family Wellbeing Coordinator

he new Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) office in Brampton was officially opened on May 24, 2017. The office will serve as the headquarters of the MNO Credit River TMétis Council (CRMC) and the new MNO Family Wellbeing program. Over 60 people attended the event including MNO CRMC Councillor Jean-Marc Maheu and MNO CRMC past Senator Bill Morrison. Brampton Ward 3 and 4 Councillors Martin Medeiros and Jeff Bowman attended the event and both were gifted with Métis sashes. Honourary sashes were also pre- sented to: MNO citizen Meredith Erochko and her three sons Gianpaolo, Danilo and Niccolo; MNO cit- izen Natalie Snow; Rubina Leahy from Victim Ser- vices of Peel; and Ed Castro, Elizabeth Molinaro and Dieufert Bellot from the Mississauga Halton Local Health Integration Networks (LHINs) for their sup- port of the Brampton MNO office. It was also great to have MNO Veterans’ Council President Joseph Paquette on hand, his spirit and stories were a treat for the other guests. MNO staff and council members had opportu- nity to connect with representatives of several local service providers including: Family Services of Peel; Habitat for Humanity; Victim Services of Peel; the Unitarian Congregation of Mississauga; Region of Peel; Child Development Resource Connection; Ecosource; Peel District School Board and Missis- sauga Halton LHINs. MNO Métis Family Wellbeing staff Rose Colacci-Fines and Catherine Corbett were able to meet them all and offer information on the new MFWB program as well as the existing CWC program. Guests had the opportunity to take part in a tra- ditional medicine pouch activity facilitated by MNO CRMC Treasurer Darlene Lent and Nycolla Buisson. The event featured light refreshments of bean salad, coleslaw and cranberry salsa prepared by Darlene and homemade bannock made by her sister, Karen 1 ) left-right: MNO Credit River Métis Council Outreach Coordinator Kyl Morrison, MNO CRMC Treasurer Darlene Lent, MNO Stewart. Fiddle music played throughout the day to CRMC President Karen Derocher, Traditional Knowledge Keeper Jim Tolles and MNO Veterans Council President Joseph get everyone in the Métis mood. The day was a great Paquette. 2) left-right: High Risk Support Counsellor Victim Services of Peel Natalie Snow, MNO Credit River Métis Council success thanks in no small part to dedicated volun- (CRMC) President Karen Derocher, MNO Métis Family Wellbeing Coordinator Catherine Corbett and MNO CRMC Treasure teers Barbara Balla, Michelle Pellegrino and Nycolla Darlene Lent. 3) left-right: Brampton Wards 3 and 4 Councillor Martin Medeiros and MNO Veterans Council President Buisson. All the guests gave positive reviews of the Joseph Paquette. 4) left-right: Volunteer Michelle Pellegrino and MNO citizen Meredith Erochko and her three young boys new office space! Gianpaolo, Danilo and Niccolo. 5) left-right: MNO Credit River Métis Council President Karen Derocher.

Métis Family Wellbeing program launched in Mattawa submitted by Christi Lewin MNO Métis Family Wellbeing Coordinator

n June 7, 2017, the Métis programs. MNO Education and Nation of Ontario (MNO) Training Employment Devel- OMattawa Métis Council oper Mark Burns was in the office (MMC), MNO staff from the Mat- answering questions. Amanda tawa and North Bay offices, MNO Benedict from the North Bay citizens and community guests office was available to assist in came together for the launch of any way needed, often engaging the new Métis Family Wellbeing in conversation with people Program in Mattawa. regarding finger weaving. Twenty-four people attended Métis Family Wellbeing Coor- along with the Mayors of Calvin dinator Christy Lewin in Mat- and Bonfield as well as town tawa was thankful for the sup- council members from Bonfield. port from the MNO North Bay Also in attendance was President staff and MNO MMC. Although, and CEO of the Mattawa Hospital there have been many challenges and Administrator of the Algon- to setting up the new office, the quin Nursing Home Jeremy Ste- support from the Council, staff, venson and staff from several supervisors and the John Dixon MNO programs. Public Library, have allowed for Many local citizens visited the programming to start in February. office to show their support for The MNO MMC was a great help the new MNO Métis Family Well- in assembly office furniture. being Program. Métis Healthy Special thanks go out to Roger Back row (left to right): MNO Employment Developer Mark Burns, Region 5 Councilor Dan Boulard, MNO Babies Healthy Children Coor- Rose, Joyceline Rose, Melanie Mattawa Métis Council President Nelson Montreuil, Métis Healthy Babies Healthy Children Coordinator dinator Lisa Poulin offered bal- Rose, Austin Rose and Eddie Lisa Poulin, Mattawa Métis Family Wellbeing Coordinator Christy Lewin, Mattawa Métis Council Senator loons to kids and networked Doucette for all the help in set- Joyceline Rose and Mattawa Métis Council Chair Roger Rose. Front row (left to right): North Bay Métis Family with people outside the office ting up the office space. Wellbeing Coordinator Amanda Benedict, Mattawa Métis Council Women’s Representative Annik Doucette, providing information on MNO baby Addison and Mattawa Métis Council Secretary-Treasurer Melanie Rose. Métis Voyageur 18 October 2017, Issue no. 97 Portage: A Youth Journey

submitted by youth also engaged in several dif- Danielle Morin ferent activities. Métis Family Wellbeing Coordinator The activities included: kids Sault Ste Marie in the kitchen, where youth par- ticipants were equipped with the necessary tools and resources for etween July 17-21, 2017, proper food handling, exploring the Métis Nation of healthy food options and meal Ontario (MNO) Historic preparation and planning. Sault Ste. Marie Métis After the youth made their own BCouncil (HSMC) worked with lunches and snacks for the day, they MNO staff in the MNO Sault Ste were engaged in cultural activities Marie office to stage a one week such as archery, medicine walk, youth summer camp called Portage: medicine bags, swimming, loom A Youth Journey. weaving, voyageur games and the Portage: A Youth Journey was making of a mini drum. open to 12 participants between the The medicine walk took place on ages of 9 to 14. The camp ran from White Fish Island where the young 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Each day people found the water was so high during the camp, the young people that their paths were covered and were divided into focus groups to they had to take off their shoes discuss important topics such as and walk through the water. It was healthy relationships, self-aware- really refreshing on such a hot day! ness, dealing with emotions and Overall, the youth all worked self-acceptance. well together, made friends and had Participants in the Youth Journey Summer Camp enjoy a medicine walk on White Fish Island. During these focus groups the a great week at summer camp!

Powley Day September 19

This Powley Day message from Acting MNO President France Picotte was released on September 14, 2017

very year on from Canada’s highest court that Agreement. This fall, as our citi- as stewards of the lands and waters Agreement, the Daniels decision, September recognized and affirmed Métis Sec- zens participate in the harvest or in is another key component of our the Isaac Report, the MNO Sec- 19th, the tion 35 rights and it is this ground- MNO community council events Métis culture and the exercise of retariat Act, the renewed MNO- breaking decision that ushered in celebrating the harvest season, I those rights. Ontario Framework Agreement and Métis Nation a whole new era of Métis rights encourage you to take a moment to Powley Day also provides MNO most recently the MNO-Canada of Ontario in Ontario and across the Métis reflect on how the Powley decision citizens with the opportunity to Memorandum of Understanding on (MNO) and Métis Homeland. This year’s celebration has raised the profile of the Métis reflect with pride on the many Advancing Reconciliation as well as E of Powley Day is special in that it and contributed to the recognition momentous and historic achieve- numerous other agreements with communities across the comes on the heels of the recent of our rights as a distinct Indige- ments we have made -- working government and industry,. province mark Powley joint announcement between nous peoples within Canada. The together -- through the MNO. The We will continue to report prog- Day to remember the Ontario and the MNO identifying affirmation of the Métis right to Powley decision was a crucial vic- ress and movement as it occurs; six additional historic communi- harvest is a component critical to tory for Métis rights, and since however, each of us must continue decade long fight led ties located throughout Ontar- the rich fabric that defines Métis then we have seen many other to work together to advance rec- by the MNO with Steve io. Now Rainy River/Lake of the culture. Our commitment to con- successes such as those noted onciliation and the MNO’s Métis and Roddy Powley for Woods; Northern Lake Superior; servation and our responsibilities above including the Harvesting rights agenda. The work ahead of recognition of Métis Abitibi Inland; Mattawa/Ottawa us is great and the journey will be River; Killarney and the Georgian long and hard fought, but on Sep- harvesting rights in the Bay Historic Métis Communities Powley Day ... tember 19, please take a moment R. v. Powley case. join the historic Sault Ste. Marie to celebrate your Métis culture as being recognized for their own provides MNO citizens with the and heritage, and remember Steve, In its landmark, unanimous distinctive collective identities, Roddy and the Powley family for decision issued on September 19, customs, practices and traditions. opportunity to reflect with pride their personal sacrifice and com- 2003, the Supreme Court of Can- More information about these his- mitment to the ongoing fight for ada declared that Steve and Roddy toric Métis communities can be on the many momentous and Métis rights. Powley, as members of the Sault found on the MNO website. historic achievements we have Ste. Marie Métis community, had Especially important at this the Métis right to harvest and that time of the year are Métis har- made -- working together -- this right is protected under sec- vesting rights, which are accom- tion 35 of The Constitution Act, modated by the Province of through the MNO 1982. This was the first decision Ontario through our Harvesting Métis Voyageur October 2017, Issue no. 97 19 MNO office officially opens in Blind River submitted by Yvonne Jensen MNO North Channel Métis Council, President

he new Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) office in Blind River was officially opened On June 27, 2017. The office will serve as the headquarters for the MNO Métis Family Wellbeing program Tand for the MNO North Channel Métis Council (NCMC). Forty-two guests including MNO citizens, staff and community guests came together for the grand opening. Among the dignitaries present was Provisional Council of the Métis Nation of Ontario Region 4 Councilor Ernie Gatien who also spoke at the ceremony along with MNO NCMC Women’s Representative June Smart. Renee Jensen played the violin before the speeches and at lunch, which contributed to the celebratory atmosphere at the opening. Among the guest speakers were: Member of Parliament for the Algoma-Manitoulin-Kapuskasing Carol Hughes; Member of Provincial Parliament for the Algoma-Mani- toulin Michael Mantha; Elliot Lake Mayor Dan Marchis- ella; Huron Shores Mayor Gil Reeves; Blind River Mayor Sue Jensen; and Ontario Provincial Police Liaison Officer Todd Showan. MNO staff, citizens and community guests attending the grand opening ceremony.

MNO Kenora Métis Council President Joel Henley and Secretary Nina Henley were the BBQ pit masters during the Meet, Greet and Eat. Meet, Greet and Eat event 1) MNO PDWMC President Andy Dufrane with citizens and well- wishers at the MNO office opening in Peterborough. 2) A very distinctly Métis cake was part of the celebrations of the opening of the new MNO office in Peterborough.. welcomes community to new MNO office in Kenora MNO office submitted by feedback was extremely positive. Leanne Rush Local MNO partners, Wom- Métis Family Wellbeing Coordinator en’s Place Kenora, Ontario Native Women’s Association and the officially opens Sexual Assault Centre, joined n June 29, 2017, Participants enjoyed a free BBQ with MNO staff in offering cul- the Métis Nation lunch as well as popcorn, snow tural games, finger weaving and in Peterborough of Ontario (MNO) cones and bannock shortcake, making of medicine bags, which submitted by Kenora office staff and which was served up by Métis demonstrated how partnerships Christa Lemelin Othe MNO Kenora Métis Coun- youth volunteers. MNO Kenora are extremely important in the MNO Peterborough and District Wapiti Métis Council Chair cil invited the community for a Métis Council President Joel community. Meet, Greet and Eat event at the Henley and Secretary Nina Henley The MNO staff and local citi- new MNO office in Kenora. The worked hard and served up more zens cannot wait for their next he new Métis Nation of attendance for the exciting grand new MNO office is a lovely space than 180 burgers. Senator Karen community event! Ontario (MNO) office in opening. that now includes the MNO Métis Cederwall and Councilor Martin Peterborough was offi- The MNO staff are happy to have Wellbeing program, which is Camire along with Métis youth cially opened on June 3, a new office in Peterborough and allowing the MNO to grow in the volunteers also assisted MNO staff To learn more about T2017. The office will serve as the are pleased that citizens and mem- community and improve access with cultural activities. programming at the MNO headquarters of the MNO Peter- bers of the community can now to its family friendly program- Senator Cederwall blessed the office in Kenora please borough and District Wapiti Métis have access to the services pro- ming. The new location also per- new office with a Métis prayer contact: Council (PDWMC) and the new vided by the MNO Métis Family mits staff to offer workshops and circle and gifted the staff with Leanne Rush MNO Métis Family Wellbeing Wellbeing Program. The MNO activities that will raise awareness cedar. The staff provided tours 807-468-3596 program. PDWMC and community members of the MNO’s presence and ser- and information on the programs [email protected]. The event was hosted by MNO expressed that the location is per- vices. The Meet, Greet and Eat offered. It was a great opportu- Family Wellbeing Program Coor- fect and will help with their out- event introduced the community nity for the community to learn dinator Brittany MacLeod with the reach and visibility to the commu- to the new office and 225 MNO more about the MNO and the ser- help from fellow MNO staff mem- nity. citizens and community members vices provided in the community. bers. MNO citizens were also in attended. The turnout was great and the Métis Voyageur 20 October 2017, Issue no. 97 MNO Credit River Métis Council community garden helps alleviate hunger in Peel Region submitted by Kyl Morrison MNO Credit River Métis Council Outreach and Education Coordinator

he Métis Nation of Ontar- io (MNO) Credit River Métis Council (CRMC) communi- ty garden raised hundreds of pounds of fresh vegetables this Tyear that will help alleviate hunger through- out the Peel region. The community garden is one of the major projects of the MNO CRMC and in 2016, the council was able to donate almost five hundred pounds of fresh produce to the local Knights Table in Cred- it River. The Knights Table is a charity that works to alleviate hunger in the Peel region (find out more about the Knights table at knightstable.org). This year the council started their commu- nity garden on May 17. On that day a nesting killdeer reminded the MNO CRMC staff and citizens to move gently as they prepared the ground for their annual gardening awakening (Left-right): Métis Traditional Knowledge Keeper Jim Tolles, MNO Credit River Métis Council Education and Community Outreach ceremony. Coordinator Kyl Morrison, Brycen Boros, Nycolla Buisson, Jessica Kowalkski and Sarah Bale from Ecosource, Local Health Integration The MNO CRMC celebrated its Sixth Network Representative Dieufert Bellot, MNO Credit River Métis Council Treasurer Darlene Lent, Beth Boros and Local Health Annual Gardening Awakening Ceremony at Integration Network Representative Damiola Toki. the Creditview Community Garden Centre. The Awakening Ceremony brought local volunteers from within the community and volunteers Nycolla Buisson, Kyl Morisson, Swiss chard and herbs, the garden became a Tears beans; Rattlesnake runner beans; and included a smudging and tobacco offering Jon and Jim Tolles and one self-seeded real reminder of the potential power of com- Canadian Crookneck squash. A donation of led by MNO CRMC Treasurer Darlene Lent parsley plant. munity support. The six plots were orga- heirloom tomato plants was also provided and a prayer by Nycolla Bruisson. During the The garden grew substantially after the nized differently this year with the inclusion from the volunteers. smudging, a prayer and tobacco offering was Awakening Ceremony and on June 1 the of a Three Sisters Garden. A variety of sig- The Three Sisters Garden is new in 2017 presented to acknowledge the awakening of number of volunteers working on the garden nificant seeds were planted in the traditional and reminds the community of the incredible the six plots in the garden. had also grown. New volunteers included Three Sisters Garden configuration. Trea- power of the Métis traditional knowledge and Volunteers who participated in the planting Brycen Boros who shared his passion and surer Lent was able to receive donated seeds the opportunities they have had to continue operations for the Awakening Ceremony knowledge of animals and tracking and from Stefania Ruffolo. The beans, squash and to treat the earth in the spirit of a giving com- this year were Sarah Bale and Jessica Kow- MNO CRMC Traditional Knowledge Keeper corn seeds included an open pollinated corn munity. The MNO CRMC is optimistic that alski from Ecosource, MNO Métis Family Jim Tolles. variety that has thrived through thousands come harvest time they will be able to again Wellbeing Coordinator Catherine Corbett, With rows and rows of onions, beans, of years of farming by Indigenous peoples make a strong contribution to the effort to Beth Boros and husband Brian Boros, local tomatoes, cabbage, kale, romaine lettuce, throughout North America; Cherokee Trail of alleviate hunger in the Peel region.

Investment in Affordable Housing (2014 Extension) ONTARIO RENOVATES

NORTHERN REMOTE COMMUNITIES

Eligibility Criteria: • You must reside in a northern remote community with a population of 2,500 or less • Your total household income must be at or below the 60th percentile in your area • The value of your home must be at or below the average market selling price in your area • The house must be your sole and principal residence • The house must require major repairs and/or modifications for persons with disabilities

To apply contact: Infinity Property Services An agency of the Métis Nation of Ontario 226 South May Street Thunder Bay, ON P7E 1B4 Tel: 807-626-9300 • Toll-Free: 1-800-891-5882 • Fax: 807-626-9030 [email protected] • www.infinitypropertyservices.ca Métis Voyageur October 2017, Issue no. 97 21 MNO citizens and staff take part in River Canard Heritage Canoe Tour submitted by Donna Grayer MNO Windsor-Essex-Kent Métis Council President

n July 16 and 23, the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) OWindsor-Essex-Kent Métis Council (WEKMC) and MNO staff from the Windsor office orga- nized a Historic Canoe Tour of the Canard (French for duck) River near the hamlet of River Canard, Ontario. They rented canoes and hired guides from the River Canard Canoe Company and undertook the tour to encourage healthy liv- ing, demonstrate the importance of the canoe to Métis culture and learn about the local history in the River Canard area. Participants enjoyed two sunny mornings full of family fun, history and fresh air. Lunch was included and there were many good conver- sations about the beautiful country setting full of wild flowers, bull rushes, birds, butterflies, deer and of course les canards as well as the very interesting local history that included the original French set- tlement in the area and the Battle of River Canard during the . It was a fairly dry event with only one canoe overturning; fortunately the water was not that deep and the skilled tour guides were able to assist so no one suffered anything but embarrassment. Participants also had the opportunity for a little shopping in the country store and all-in-all everyone enjoyed both days and there was discussion about potential future canoe tours so some participants could improve The MNO WEKMC Heritage Canoe Tour crew on the water and inset they prepare for their adventure with the help of the River Canard Canoe their paddling. Company.

MNO Niagara Region Métis Council participates in Celebration of Nations submitted by centre for the weekend-long Cele- Derrick Pont bration of Nations event. A few feet MNO Niagara Region President from his fire, ringed in leaves, was a smaller, ceremonial First Nations written by fire. Grant LaFleche, Pont said historic tension For Métis and stcatharinesstandard.ca between Métis and First Nations groups meant they typically did First Nations to not share communal space in this he significance of the two fashion. be able to share small fires, mere feet from But at this event — a gathering space like this is Teach other at the FirstOn- of Indigenous arts, culture and tra- tario Performing Arts Centre, was ditions — the fires standing side- amazing.” easy for many to miss. by-side was a powerful, if subtle, To the uninformed eye, they were symbol of unity, Pont said. – Derrick Pont just fires. But to others, they were a “It says we’re cousins. That we’ve proud and unique display of First always been related, which we are,” a few feet away we have a pow wow Nations culture. said Pont. “For Métis and First going on. These are completely dif- “This doesn’t happen. I don’t Nations to be able to share space ferent things, completely different remember this happening before,” like this is amazing.” expressions of Indigenous culture,” said Derrick Pont, President of For Celeste Smith, Executive Smith said. the Métis Nation Ontario (MNO) Director of the Three Fires Commu- The Celebration of Nations fea- Niagara Region Métis Council. nity Justice program at the Niagara tured dozens of events, from work- “This is bringing us all together. It’s Regional Native Centre, the display shops and film screenings to discus- Photo by Grant LaFleche very special.” of the variety of Indigenous identi- sion groups and dances. Pont’s fire was a simple camp fire ties was unique as it was important. The event was first of its kind in Brian Kon, Chair of the MNO Niagara Region Métis council watches used for cooking and keeping warm “If you look at what is happening Niagara, highlighting the traditions the performances at the Celebration of Nations Saturday at the — part of the Métis camp erected here, we have a Métis camp beside a of Métis and of several First Nations Preforming Arts Centre. Behind him Derrick Pont, president of the in the backyard area of the arts sacred fire, which is traditional, and including art and music. MNO Niagara Region Métis Council, sews a blanket. Métis Voyageur 22 October 2017, Issue no. 97 Métis youth trains with the Montreal Canadiens submitted by Christa Lemelin MNO Peterborough and District Wapiti Métis Council Chair

his summer Métis youth Hannah Lemelin, had the once in a lifetime opportunity to train with the world renowned Mon- treal Canadiens hockey club. Hannah, the daughter of the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Peterborough and District Wapiti Métis Council (PDWMC) Chair Christa TLemelin, was in Montreal this August for an amazing week-long Canadiens Girls Hockey School program. The program is in its second year and provides girls with the opportunity to receive the same training as members of the Montreal Canadiens. The program included on-ice training with Montreal Canadiens staff and players, off-ice phys- ical conditioning and a visit of the Montreal Canadiens dressing room. Hannah met and trained with such players as Paul Byron, Nikita Scherbak and Canadiens General Manager Marc Bergevin. The program also offered an additional off-ice physical training and a meet Métis youth Hannah Lemelin from Peterborough and greet with the Canadian Football League’s Montreal Allouettes and Major puck handling while training with the Montreal League Baseball’s former Expos pitcher Derek Aucoin. Canadiens. Hannah has been playing hockey for several years now and was very happy to have such an amazing experience. Although exhausted from the week, she Hannah with Paul Byron of the Montreal thoroughly enjoyed the program and is proud to say that she was taught by Canadiens. the Montreal Canadiens!

Métis flag raising ceremony Join the MNO North Bay Métis Council on November 16, Louis Riel Day, for a Métis flag raising ceremony at 11am at North Bay City Hall.

MNO Temiskaming Métis Council Trapper camp cultural display For more information please contact MNO North MNO Temiskaming Métis Council Bay Métis Council President Marc Laurin at set up Métis trapper’s camp display [email protected] or 705-493-0196 (cell). submitted by Group took part in the “Wabi River Kayak templates were provided for the children. Liz Morland Challenge” event that was hosted by the They were able to sew them together with MNO Temiskaming Métis Council New Liskeard Lions Club. sinew and decorate them with markers. Office Manager The MNO TMC and the Temiskaming The MNO TMC also provided Iced lemon Native Women’s Support Group partici- Chaga tea and Cedar tea samples, which pated by setting up a Trapper’s tent and a were very well received and gave MNO n August 19, 2017, in the City Métis cultural display. TMC the opportunity to chat with local of Temiskaming Shores, the The display included local animal community visitors about all aspects of O Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) furs such as marten, mink, otter, fisher, Métis culture. Temiskaming Métis Council (TMC) and rabbit, wolf, coyote, racoon, lynx and fox. the Temiskaming Native Women’s Support As a hands-on activity, craft foam canoe Métis Voyageur October 2017, Issue no. 97 23

A busy spring and summer Participants in the Moccasin-making for the MNO Grand River Workshop in Guelph. Métis Council To say that the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Grand River Métis Council (GRMC) was very busy between May and August, 2017; would plain and simply be an understatement! Besides welcoming the MNO Grand River Métis MNO Canoe Expedition (see special section page C8) and celebrating National Aboriginal Day in two cities (see page 14) council members Council hosts baby somehow found time to hold not one but two different moccasin- moccasin workshop making workshops, celebrate Canada 150, host a Family Fun Night, tour the head office of the North American Fur Auction and hold their submitted by is to encourage communities and Diane Kilby individuals to produce baby moc- own Annual General Meeting. MNO Grand River Métis Council casins. The baby moccasins are pro- Councillor duced to give to Indigenous chil- dren who have been placed in care as a way of helping to keep them s part of the national Da- connected to their Indigenous heri- MNO Grand River Métis Council giiwewaat campaign, the tage and communities. The mocca- A Métis Nation of Ontario sins are a cultural link for each baby takes part in Canada 150 in Kitchener (MNO) Grand River Métis Council – a gift of love and caring and resis- (GRMC) recently hosted a Baby tance. Making the moccasins also submitted by succeeded (with the help of Sena- showed visitors furs, traps and Moccasins Workshop by Nancy raises awareness of the issue and Jennifer Parkinson tor Lévis). President Jennifer Par- sashes along with other items. Rowe and Colinda Clyne. Rowe is creates links between Indigenous MNO Grand River Métis Council kinson and Councilor Alicia Ham- Great questions were asked and a member of the Mississaugas of communities. President ilton kept the adventurous teens many stories were told. the Credit River First Nation and The MNO GRMC committed to competing in a game of “Poison To help celebrate Canada is one of the founders of the Da- making 150 moccasins to deliver Circle.” These young competitors 150, the MNO GRMC also gave giiwewaat and Clyne is with the to babies being taken into care. he MNO GRMC participat- kept sending their friends over out 175 small Métis flags while Upper Grand District School Board. The Council invited members of ed in the City of Kitchener’s to learn the traditional game and sharing the flag’s history. It was They provided the workshop at the the community and its allies to TCanada 150 celebration. challenge one another. Treasurer great to see Métis flags carried MNO office in Kitchener. The pur- participate in the workshop and As part of the festivities Senator Leslie Muma, Youth Representa- around with the Canadian flags. pose of Da-giiwewaat, which means were delighted to welcome about Carol Lévis led a crowd of chil- tive. Rebecca Leitch, and Coun- The wonderful day finished off “so they can go home” is to raise two dozen participants of all ages. dren in playing “Pin the Sash on cilor Pat St. John joined the fun at with an exciting fireworks show. awareness about the large number Together they learned and shared as the Moose.” For four hours blind- the Council’s cultural table where Happy Canada 150! of Indigenous children who are put they made moccasins. The evening folded children kept trying to get they provided information about in care by child protection agencies. was a good start and the Council the sash on the moose. They all Métis culture and history. They One element of the campaign easily met its target.

(Left to Right) MNO GRMC President Jennifer Parkinson, Youth Representative. Rebecca Leitch, Some of the baby moccasins produced by MNO Grand River Métis Councilor Pat St. John, Senator Carol Lévis and Councilor Alicia Hamilton. Council citizens. Métis Voyageur 24 October 2017, Issue no. 97

MNO GRMC holds Family Fun Night Annual General Meeting submitted by submitted by Diane Kilby Jennifer Parkinson MNO Grand River Métis Council MNO Grand River Métis Council Councillor President

n Saturday, May 27, o celebrate the launch of the 2017, the MNO GRMC MNO Métis Family Well- O held its Annual Gener- T being program, MNO staff al Meeting (AGM) at the Family and the MNO GRMC co-hosted a Centre in Kitchener. Senator Carol very successful Family Fun Night Lévis opened the meeting with on May 29, 2017. The MNO Métis a prayer. President Jennifer Par- Family Wellbeing program now kinson recapped Council’s many serves the Kitchener, Waterloo and activities and achievements over Wellington regions the past year and thanked the The Family Fun Night took A young participant dedicated MNO GRMC members (Left to right) MNO GRMC place at the Round Table and Royal demonstrates his and citizen volunteers. Treasurer Councilor Diane Kilby and Garrison in Guelph and brought skills with a bow Leslie Muma provided an update Chair Dave Skene. together about five dozen citizens and arrow. on the MNO GRMC’s finances. and their families from throughout MNO citizen and University the region. There was something for of Waterloo Professor, Dr. John After enjoying lunch together, everyone - from toddlers, to youth Lewis provided a presentation on everyone tried their hand at dec- and young adults, to parents and the grant he is working on with orating rocks with Métis dot art. grandparents. wanted a bit more spice in their good company. Everyone enjoyed the Ontario Government that Participants aged from two to 70 Activities ranged from board evening. There was even the chance the chance to come together and will look at the need for an age- all tried their hand at creating games for the more sedate, to, to hone one’s bow and arrow skills. socialize. This event was so uni- friendly, community-planning these beautiful decorative rocks. and under strict supervision, the Of course, it was a Métis Family versally popular that the Council framework that will enhance the After a very successful AGM, throwing sharp objects such as Fun Night which meant that there is considering making it an annual quality of life for Métis and First everyone is looking forward to hatchets and knives for those who was lots of good food and general event. Nations elders. next year.

MNO GRMC reaches out to Métis community through moccasin workshops submitted by Diane Kilby, MNO Grand River Métis Council Councillor

ike other MNO chartered all attendees. At each workshop, councils across Ontario, she guided participants gently the MNO GRMC is firm- through the process of making ly committed to building their own moccasins. Lcultural awareness and skills for Participants ranged in age MNO citizens and their families. from six to 70 and together they Accordingly, the Council held punched holes, threaded nee- Moccasin Making Workshops dles and sewed their mocca- both in Kitchener on June 3 and sins together. There was such in Guelph on June 4. Holding pride and joy at the end of each workshops in two centres made workshop when each person put participation more accessible for on their new moccasins. One citizens from around the region. young participant refused to take Prior to the workshop, the her moccasins off and proudly instructor, Kathryn Edgecombe, announced that she had made With the three bears (left to right) MNO GRMC President Jennifer Parkinson, Region 9 PCMNO Councilor had asked all participants to send them herself! A sentiment widely & Captain of the Hunt Peter Rivers, MNO GRMC Women’s Representative Colleen Brunelle her their foot measurements so shared by everyone present. she could cut pattern pieces for MNO GRMC tours North American Fur Auctions head office submitted by and 1989, respectively. over 17 mutations with numerous Colleen Brunelle NAFA’s annual spring sale took grading levels within each color. MNO Grand River Métis Council place between May 8 and 14 this Senior grading expert, Murray Par- Women’s Representative year. Spring sale dates focus largely kinson explained techniques used in on a vast array of wild-trapped fur grading fur as well as desirable and from all across Canada and North flawed differences between pelts. n May 10, members of the America. The tour was able to show- Members of the MNO GRMC MNO GRMC toured the case over 690,000 wild pelt lots. were able to learn of pelting tech- O North America Fur Auc- This included timber wolves, wol- niques and fur processing through tions (NAFA) head office in Toron- verines, bears, cougars, wild fox, to auction consignment. It was an to. NAFA is a Canadian company beaver, fishers, lynx, otter and wild experience where one could appre- that auctions on consignment fur mink. It is reasonable to believe ciate fur at a professional level pelts harvested in Canada and the that many of these were trapped by and value it as a green, renewable United States. Its services are used MNO citizens. Provisional Council product that is good for the environ- by both large fur farms and small- of the Métis Nation of Ontario ment. Wild trapped fur still remains time trappers. Its auctions are held (PCMNO) Region 9 Councilor, a source of income and economic three to four times a year in Toron- Peter Rivers, was astounded to learn stability for many MNO citizens. to. It is the largest fur auction house of the value placed on two partic- The MNO GRMC would like to in North America, and the second ularly handsome timber wolf pelts. thank Senior Grader- Murray Par- largest in the world. Also on auction during this kinson and Director of Rancher NAFA is the successor to the week, were more than 3,081,000 Relations for Canada Wayne Booth Hudson’s Bay Company’s Canadian lots of various ranched mink and for facilitating this excellent learning and American fur auction busi- ranched silver and red fox pelts. opportunity. Instructor Kathryn Edgecome helps a young Moccasin Workshop nesses, which were spun off in 1987 The mink colour variations ranged participant with her sewing. Métis Voyageur October 2017, Issue no. 97 25 Protecting our waters - sharing our stories submitted by wastewater. “Ammonia is the param- Michael V. Smith eter with the biggest impact on the MNO Employment Developer environment”, says Owen Sound’s Manager of Water and Wastewater, written by Matt Prentice. Now, “there’s almost Susan Staves no ammonia in the effluent” being MNO Great Lakes Métis Council released into our waterways. Member The MNO was involved in the consultation process, which was undertaken during the strategic ater is sacred and planning stage of development. is an important ele- The treatment plant sits on an his- ment that has influ- toric Métis settlement called “Mud- enced the very his- town,” that was settled by many of toryW of the Métis peoples of Ontario. the Métis who came as a result of As stated in the Métis Nation of the Drummond Island migration of Ontario (MNO) Statement of Prime 1828. A plaque ceremony to dedi- Purpose Métis are as a people inti- cate a plaque honouring that com- mately connected to the land and munity took place on Friday, Sep- waterways surrounding the Great tember 22, 2017, with MNO citizens Lakes: and council representatives present “We, the Métis are a people of the including members of the historic lands, which gave rise to our his- families who can trace their ancestry tory and tradition and culture. We back to Mudtown. call those lands the Métis Home- The impressive plaque provides lands. The Homelands stretch from MNO citizens with the MNO Great Lakes Métis Council and dignitaries gather during the Métis of a significant amount of the history the lakes and rivers of Ontario; cross Mudtown plaque dedication ceremony, held on Friday September 22, 2017. of Mudtown and some of its earliest the wide prairies, traverse the moun- Métis families and states: tains into British Columbia...” all three levels of government to par- Work to upgrade the wastewater “Through the twentieth century A strong connection to this his- ticipate in a ribbon cutting ceremony plant from a primary to secondary many Métis families continued to tory and a desire to protect the lands for the grand opening of the City of The treatment plant level treatment facility – the largest live in Mudtown including names and waters still exists among Métis Owen Sound’s upgraded Secondary sits on an historic infrastructure project ever under- such as Coture, Hillyer, Sylvest, peoples in Ontario as evidenced by Level Wastewater Treatment Plant. Métis settlement taken by the City of Owen Sound – Desjardins, Edmonstone, Ham- two events that recently took place Speaking at the ceremony, MNO began in the summer of 2014, with ilton, Angel, Robinson and Jones. in the Owen Sound area. GLMC Councillor Jim Stranks said: called “Mudtown,” Ottawa and Queen’s Park both con- Mudtown falls within the area rep- On Tuesday September 19, 2017, “I wish to thank the City of Owen that was settled tributing $15 million toward the resented by the Great Lakes Métis MNO citizens from the MNO Great Sound, the Province of Ontario, final cost ofthe project through the Council of the Métis Nation of Lakes Métis Council (GLMC), Pau- and the for by many of the Green Infrastructure Fund. Since the Ontario, and remains an indivis- line Richardson, the Provisional their diligence and effort in the ren- Métis who came city has upgraded to a secondary ible part of the Métis Nation within Council of the Métis Nation of ovation and upgrading of this waste as a result of the level wastewater treatment facility, Ontario as well as the larger Métis Ontario (PCMNO) Region 7 Coun- water treatment facility. It is and will the quality of the effluent being re- Nation. Today, the Métis of Mudtown cilor and Chair of the Georgian Bay continue to be a symbol to the Métis Drummond Island introduced into the Great Lakes has proudly stand with others across the Consultation Committee as well community, of the respect which is migration of significantly improved. A primary province who share the same history, as other Consultation Committee held by these several levels of gov- level of sewage treatment, which goals and vision for the future of the members joined with representatives ernment, for the natural resources of 1828 Owen Sound used to have, did Métis in Ontario.” from Saugeen Ojibway Nation and land, water and wildlife.” nothing to eliminate ammonia from

MNO Clear Waters Métis Council’s Voyageur Canoe Run a success submitted by n September 16, 2017, the Métis organizing the launch on that day. very hungry, so, the MNO CWMC was very Tobias Clarke Nation of Ontario (MNO) Clear All participants met bright and early and grateful when Mother’s Pizza Parlour in Brant- MNO Clear Waters Métis Council O Waters Métis Council (CWMC) ready to paddle at 8:00 am on the shore of ford generously gifted them with free pizza. Women’s Representative held a Voyageur Canoe Run down the Grand the historic river. Their route was 17 kilome- It was a day that could not have happened River Oxbow, which is near Brantford. It was tres and would lead them to the Six Nations without the efforts of the MNO CWMC’s a day to remember for a group of the MNO Reserve. With life jackets on and paddles in determined organizers and everyone else that CWMC citizens who participated including hand, the group was split between two voya- helped make it an amazing experience. MNO CWMC Youth Representatives Jarred geur canoes. It was truly a great day! and Morgan Clarke, who were kept very busy After their long paddle, the voyageurs were

Participants in the MNO Clear Waters Métis Council Voyageur Canoe Run Métis Voyageur 26 October 2017, Issue no. 97 MNO Highland Waters Métis Council to receive Trillium grant to support Traditional Knowledge Study submitted by this knowledge from Métis elders, traditional the broader non-Indigenous community. Participants in MNO High Candace Lloyd knowledge holders, Michif speakers, harvesters The Council celebrated the grant during its Land Waters Métis Council MNO High Land Waters Métis Council and artists through written survey questions, Annual Harvest Dinner that was held on Octo- Traditional Knowledge and Secretary/Treasurer oral interviews, audio/video recordings and ber 14 at Flinton Township Hall in Flinton. Land Use workshop January 21 document research. in Flinton. (Back row left-right) Once completed, this project will have doc- Nicolas Delbaeer-Sawchuck, he Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) High umented stories of its knowledge holders that Questions can be directed to HLWMC Ford VanNess, Scott Lloyd, Land Waters Métis Council (HLWMC) can be shared with the Métis community, espe- Secretary/Treasurer Candace Lloyd at: Markus Tuohimaa, Steven T was recently pleased to announce that cially the youth. This knowledge will be pre- 14 Bosley Road, Northbrook, ON Gautreau, James Grand, Alfred it has been awarded an Ontario Trillium Foun- served and protected for future generations. Office Phone: 613-336-1732 Veley (front l-r) Ashley Lloyd, dation grant to gather traditional knowledge This project will also help the Métis commu- Cell Phone: 613-848-1466 Darlene Loft, Candace Lloyd, about the Métis culture and way of life in its nity in sharing its stories and perspectives with Email: [email protected] Carol Belanger, Trudy Conner community. The Council will work to collect its First Nations neighbours, government and and Jim Conner. Métis Voyageur October 2017, Issue no. 97 27 ACHIEVEMENTS Song of Batoche New novel looks at North West Resistance from a feminine perspective submitted by to make her his confidante. The part of Riel’s Ronsdale Press played by the Métis women, the subver- provisional sive role of the church, Riel’s growing government religious fervour and Dumont’s guer- in 1885. Her étis Nation of Ontario rilla tactics are explored in vivid detail great, great- citizen Maia Caron is the until the final moment when Middleton’s grandmother author of Song of Batoche, a troops overrun the Métis rifle pits. Marguerite historical novel that will be Caron’s book launch was held on Caron (Dumas) Mpublished by Ronsdale Press on Septem- September 30 at her great, great- grand- confronted ber 30, 2017. Song of Batoche is an epic father, Jean Caron Senior’s house, which Riel while he retelling of the North-West Resistance of is now a museum at the Batoche National was praying, to 1885, where the women are key players Historic site in Saskatchewan. At the demand that he in Louis Riel’s prophetic mission. launch, Caron will read a scene from her send ammunition and reinforce- The story is told in the perspectives of book that recounts the Dominion army’s ments to the Métis fighting at Louis Riel, Gabriel Dumont, Madeleine opening salvo on Batoche from the per- Tourond’s Coulee. Dumont, Marguerite Riel; Father Moulin, spective of Gabriel Dumont in a rifle pit Song of Batoche is Caron’s Batoche Catholic priest; and Lawrence behind the church and rectory. first novel. Clarke, Chief Factor for the Hudson’s Caron’s ancestors were Red River Bay Company. At the heart of the novel Métis who moved to Batoche in the is Josette Lavoie, a Métis woman whose 1870’s. Caron’s great, great, great-grand- kinship with Chief Big Bear inspires Riel father, Pierre Parenteau was Chairman Métis author Maia Caron.

Tyrone Pile helps pilot new course at Pearson College The brother of MNO Secretary-Treasurer Tim Pile brings his unique perspective to historic international school submitted by Brian Geary scholarship-driven United World College Director of Communications (uwc) education. Pearson College “We regard everyone as both a learner and an educator and that our approach to a wholistic, experiential education is very yrone (Ty) Pile is accustomed much in line with Indigenous ways of to leading, having served in teaching and learning. Imagine the story the Royal Canadian Navy for sharing possible when you bring together Imagine the story sharing more than 35 years in various bright, young people from an Indigenous possible when you bring capacities, up to and includ- community together with fellow students together bright, young Ting Rear-Admiral and Commander of Can- from Palestine, Norway and Zimbabwe. At Tyrone Pile. ada’s Pacific Navy. Pearson, that happens every day!” people from an Indigenous Originally from Geraldton, Ty is tack- Pile says the 44-year-old school, named community together with ling a new civilian role as part of the after the country’s premier peacemaker leadership team for one of Canada’s most and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, Lester B. fellow students from respected international schools, Pearson Pearson, welcomes Indigenous scholars Palestine, Norway College near Victoria, British Columbia. As from around the world including, last year Vice-President Operations and Adminis- alone, young leaders from communities in and Zimbabwe.” tration for the historic West Coast campus, Canada, Greenland and Australia. – Ty Pile located on the traditional territory of the “Today, in the spirit of Reconciliation, Scia’new (Beecher Bay) First Nation, Pile is we have a renewed emphasis on reach- experiencing a homecoming of sorts. ing out to neighbouring First Nations “Coming to Pearson is like com- and Métis peoples across the country and ing home,” says Pile, whose wife of more around the world,” adds Pile. “I think spent most of my adult life than 37 years, Debra, was raised in the we’ve come a long way to establish Pearson in the military – seeing many area, “but it’s also like reaching out to the as a campus of cultural safety and respect parts of the world and expe- world. With up to 200 students from 75 for Indigenous people and communities. riencing a wide variety of cul- countries at any one time, and with young “As a boarding school for 16-to- tures – and that has instilled people from every province and territory, 19-year-old students, we have a special in me a determination to pro- Pearson is a unique pre-university school responsibility to reach out from a place of mote Lester B. Pearson’s vision (grade 12 and ‘gap year’) that wears its humility and willingness to listen.” of tolerance, understanding and commitment to peace, global understand- Pearson, one of 17 UWC schools acceptance,” says Pile. ing and sustainability proudly. around the world, selects students on “It’s an honour to work “And that,” says the ex-military officer merit -- based on qualities like intellec- with educators who teach who believes strongly in the strength of tual curiosity, leadership potential, resil- these values and inspire education, discussion and diplomacy, “is a ience, integrity and academic achievement young people of all cultures commitment needed now more than ever.” -- to ensure cultural and socioeconomic to understand that they Pile sees Pearson’s diversity as an diversity. Students apply through UWC have the ability to make unparalleled opportunity for Métis youth “national committees” (in Canada, ca.uwc. positive changes in their and all Indigenous students and their org) to attend Pearson or other UWC communities and organiza- families, as well as for young people from schools from Swaziland to Japan. tions.” around the world who are attracted to a “I’ve been fortunate enough to have Métis Voyageur 28 October 2017, Issue no. 97 MNO citizen carries Canada Games Torch submitted by teams in the last three seasons. Theresa Stenlund That much hockey would be PCMNO Region 1 Councilor enough sports for most people but Katelyne is also an avid volleyball player, enthusiastic cross country étis Nation of Ontario runner and she also enjoys basket- (MNO) citizen Kate- ball and soccer. She has been part lyne Stenlund carried of provincial volleyball champion- the Roly McLenahan ships, has ran in the top five run- Mtorch in the Canada Summer Games ners in several cross country meets Torch Relay on its route near Keno- and received the most sportsman- ra on June 24, 2017. Katelyne is the like award from her basketball daughter of Theresa Stenlund, the team. Katelyne’s soccer team partici- Region 1 Provisional Council of the pated in the Slurpee Cup Métis Nation of Ontario (PCMNO) in June 2017 and placed first with Councilor. Katelyne scoring the winning goal. Winnipeg hosted the Canada Among those who nominated Summer Games July 28 to August Katelyne was MNO Youth Council 13, this year. Featuring 16 sports, President Mitch Case who wrote: over 250 events and a major cultur- “Katelyne shows her commitment al festival, the 2017 Canada Sum- to her community through her par- mer Games welcomed over 4,000 ticipation in Michif classes, through athletes and coaches and more learning and teaching traditional than 20,000 visitors. Celebrating Métis dancing. Katelyne is truly an the Games’ 50th anniversary and inspiration to all young people, but acknowledging Canada’s 150th particularly to Métis youth for her anniversary, the Canada Games are Katelyne Stenlund carrying the torch during the Canada Summer Games Torch Relay near Kenora. commitment to both sports and to this country’s largest multisport her culture and community. For event for young athletes. The Canada Games Torch was to each sport she participates and is these reasons and many more, I am This year’s torch relay started on renamed the Roly McLenahan Torch a team player. She encourages and happy to support her application.” June 23 in Steinbach, and contin- in 1985, in honour of the late Roly offers praise to those around her. MNO Kenora Métis Coun- ued through Kenora, Morden, Gil- McLenahan, who was an origi- Among the other factors that cil (KMC) Senator Karen Ceder- lam-Fox Lake Cree Nation, Thomp- nal member of the Canada Games made Katelyne an excellent nomi- wall also nominated Katelyne. She son, The Pas-Opaskwayak Cree Council and who demonstrated a nee for being a torch runner is her wrote: “Katelyne is an active youth Nation, Dauphin, Gimli, Sagkeeng- life-long commitment to youth and Katelyne is an active outstanding involvement in sports member of the Kenora Métis Coun- Great Falls and Brandon. their participation in sport. youth member of the including hockey, soccer, volley- cil and Métis Community. She has The Canada Summer Games Communities across Manitoba ball, basketball, track and field a strong sense of identity and has Torch Relay is designed to carry the and Kenora had the opportunity to Kenora Métis Council and cross-country running. She assisted younger youth in learning excitement of the Games to different nominate individuals to carry the and Métis Community. plays for two Kenora hockey teams the Métis Culture by demonstrating locations around Manitoba as well torch when it reached their commu- She has a strong sense of as well as one from Winnipeg. All jigging, talking about the Métis sash as Kenora in Ontario. Kenora was nities and in Kenora, Katelyne Sten- identity and has assisted three of these teams fared very well and Métis way of life to many young included because it is the site for the lund was one of the nominees. younger youth in learning this year with one team winning children at local schools.” rowing event, which is part of the A big part of her nomination was three of three tournaments; anoth- Another nomination came from Canada Summer Games. The torch due to Katelyne’s involvement in her the Métis Culture by er placing ninth in the Ontario St.Thomas Aquinas High School followed a unique journey starting Métis culture. Katelyne is a proud demonstrating jigging, Women’s Hockey Association Pro- Principal Michelle Sawa, who said: with the official lighting ceremony Métis youth and has participated in talking about the Métis vincial Championship and another “Please accept this letter as an indi- in Ottawa on June 6, 2017 and then many regional community engage- sash and Métis way of life winning the city championship for cation of my support of Katelyne to traveled to ten communities. In ments by opening meetings with to many young children at 2017. More importantly, Katelyne be a torch bearer in the 2017 Sum- Kenora, the Canada Summer Games welcoming remarks, assisting with has been repeatedly acknowledged mer Games. Torch Relay made its way along fundraising, attending elder and local schools.” by her teammates and coaches for Katelyne’s Métis pride and com- Lakeview Drive from the Lake of senator visits and also playing her her good sportsmanship. She was munity spirit made her an excellent the Woods Discovery Centre to the fiddle at local events. Katelyne puts – Karen Cederwall, MNO selected Miss Congeniality or recog- representative of Kenora and of the Whitecap Pavillion. forth her best effort and dedication Kenora Métis Council Senator nized as the best sportsman on her Métis Nation of Ontario.

The Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) North Bay Métis Council invites you to our annual...

Métis Family Winterfest 2-7 pm, Sunday, December 17, 2017 Callander Community Centre - 1984 Swale Street - Callander Traditional Christmas style dinner provided along with horse drawn rides, cultural games and workshops, roasting on open fire, live entertainment and more. Please RSVP by December 11

For more information and to RSVP please contact: MNO North Bay Métis Council President Marc Laurin at [email protected] or 705-493-0196 (cell). Please indicate how many children and their ages with your RSVP in order that we may have sufficient gifts for all. Métis Voyageur October 2017, Issue no. 97 29 We Aspire: an exhibit of work by Métis artists in Niagara submitted by Derrick Pont MNO Niagara Region President with files from nac.org

our Métis artists includ- ing three Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) citizens had their work exhibited Fat the Niagara Artists Centre in Niagara from September 9 to 22 this year. The Exhibit entitled We Aspire honoured the tradition of Métis dot art and bead work; the custom of bead patterning was traditionally used by the Métis to adorn their clothing. “The Métis were known as the ‘flower bead people;’ my art is intended to honour the skills and artistry of my ancestors by using traditional and historic bead patterns as the inspiration for my work,” stated Brian Kon, MNO citizen and one of the artists fea- Promotional artwork from the Niagara Artists Centre advertising We Aspire. tured in the exhibit. Brian has a passion for preserving the culture Ethiopia. Sterling finds inspiration Julia Simone was the fourth art- Happens: An Exhibit of Contempo- who live within this space. and history of Métis people by cre- from both the traditions of the ist featured in We Aspire. She is an rary Métis Art, which also featured We Aspire is presented by ating modern versions of historic Métis and modern works. emerging artist from École Notre Métis artists including MNO citi- the Niagara Artists Centre with bead patterns traditionally used by We Aspire also featured the Dame de la Jeunesse in Niagara zen Jason Baerg. Jason’s work along support from the MNO Niagara Métis. work of Amanda Pont-Shanks, an Falls and is currently the Artist- with that of Jaime Koebel and Region Métis Council and in Sterling Kon is another MNO MNO citizen and graduate of Niag- in-Residence for a not-for-profit Sheri Nault activate the land and partnership with Celebration of citizen and artist whose work was ara College in Art and Design. Her organization called Seedling for sky, and all that is within, through Nations and the FirstOntario Per- featured in We Aspire. Sterling is art is inspired by Métis traditions Change. She collaborated on a logo their intimate and delicate expres- forming Arts Centre. a proud Métis artist and entrepre- and memories of her great-grand- design, featured in the show, for sion of deep connection to this neur who grew up in the Niagara father’s garden in Beamsville. She one of their current projects, Share space of energetic flux. Where The region. In 2017, his work was works in several mediums includ- Peace, Discover Niagara River. Weather Happens is an expression displayed internationally at festi- ing painting, beadwork, drawing We Aspire opened in con- of the relationship and interactions vals in Canada and as far away as and paper art. junction with Where the Weather between the land and sky as beings

MNO citizen pursues MNO citizen continues career in teaching leadership in security field submitted by submitted by Jo-Ann Parent Gran Lecky, Immigration, Refugees and MNO Regional Employment and Training Citizenship of Canada Administration, Coordinator Security and Accommodation with files from ifsecglobal.com

ecently, Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) citizen Tina Buttineau étis Nation of Ontario (MNO) completed her Bachelor of citizen Bonnie Butlin continues to Education at Nipissing University M be recognized for excellence in the Rand Bachelor of Arts at Western University. field of International Security Leadership. On Tina has wanted to be a teacher for as long June 22, 2017, Bonnie was ranked #1 in her as she could remember because her dream category of Security management, education is to make a positive difference in the lives and thought leadership international for the of others. This once seemed like an impos- Top 50 influencers in security and fire 2017. sible journey because of the cost of post-sec- This recognition adds to Bonnie’s already ondary education and the fact that there are Tina Buttineau. impressive achievements across Canada and MNO Citizen Bonnie Butlin. no universities within a 200 kilometre radius the globe. of her home. your students. I think teaching is the most Butlin is the co-founder and executive knowledge in security and resilience through Tina sought assistance from the MNO rewarding job there is,” said Tina. director of the Security Partners’ Forum the creation of a sharing platform for edu- to turn her lifelong dream of teaching into “I would not have been able to pursue (SPF), a platform for professionals in the cators from the community college through reality and the MNO was able to provide my dream of being a teacher without the security resilience, public safety, defence, PhD levels. The development team is com- financial support. help and support of the MNO. Thank you intelligence and law enforcement domains prised of the top-tier educators in security Throughout her studies she learned var- for helping make my dreams a reality,” said across Canada and internationally. and resilience body of knowledge develop- ious teaching and classroom management Tina. In 2016, Butlin helped launch the Cana- ment from around the world. strategies, educational pedagogy as well as Through hard work, perseverance, and dian Cybersecurity Alliance (CCA), a net- Named ‘Canada’s First Lady of Security’, how to teach a wide variety of subjects effec- the help and support of the MNO she can work of more than 100 professional associ- Butlin is a champion of women and is the tively. Tina gained a deeper understanding now say that she is officially a teacher. Tina is ations with a vested interest or affected by International Coordinator of the Women in of the curriculum documents and the assess- currently employed with the Bluewater Dis- cybersecurity and confirmed to be the first Security and Resilience Alliance (WISECRA), ment and evaluation practices. Tina has also trict School Board as a French teacher and of its kind globally, providing unparalleled a global organization. learned the importance of making learning is also working at Nipissing University as a understanding of the cyber landscape in Butlin is a thought leader too, penning meaningful, relevant and accessible to all Teaching Assistant. Canada and internationally. Also in 2016, articles for security and defence publica- learners. “There is no better feeling after a Tina hopes to teach French Immersion in Bonnie was on the development team that tions not just in Canada but also in the UK, long day of teaching than realizing that today the near future and is also considering con- helped launch the International Council of US and Australia. She continues to be an was the day you were able to help make a tinuing her studies by pursuing a Masters Security and Resilience Educators (ICSRE), impressive leader in all aspects of security. positive difference in the lives of one of degree in Education. which seeks to enhance the global body of Métis Voyageur 30 October 2017, Issue no. 97

All opinions represent the views of the writers and do not necessarily EDITORIALS reflect the positions and policies of the Métis Nation of Ontario. A Statement from the Métis Nation of Ontario Youth Council regarding Canada 150 Submitted by Mitch Case, MNO Youth Council President

hroughout this year, and complete ignorance of our history particularly in the com- and rights as a Nation. ing weeks, Canadians Today, many Métis youth still Youth forum participants take part in a KAIROS blanket exercise, everywhere will be cel- struggle daily with the effects of simulating the loss of land, isolation and trauma experienced by Tebrating Canada 150; the anni- colonialism and Canada’s 150. Canada’s Indigenous peoples over the course of colonization. versary of the formation of the Métis youth struggle with inter- independent Canadian state. We generational trauma and trying to recognize that for non-Indige- reclaim their identity. nous people living in what is now The Métis as a people and a Reconciliation by local, not-for-profit Youth Otta- known as Canada, there is much Nation are much older than Can- wa where more than 50 Indigenous to celebrate. However, we call ada and it is perverse to think that starts with and non-Indigenous youths from on Canadians to recognize and we should be expected to cel- the Ottawa area had the chance to understand that for us, there is ebrate 150 years of Canada’s his- dialogue – youth engage collectively in reconciliation- much less to celebrate. tory while we continue to struggle forum indigenizes themed workshops. We do not take the position daily with the effects of our expe- By inviting Indigenous youth into that Canadians should not cele- riences with Canada. the Senate Parliament, the Senate showed how brate their history, we do however Furthermore, we also find it By Emily Gjos eager it is to open the doors to our call on Canadians to understand particularly troubling that Canada youth to participate in the public life that for many Metis youth, and has set aside half a billion dollars Submitted by of this country. For one day, we filled other Indigenous people, it is dif- to celebrate Canada 150 while our MNO Ottawa Region Métis Council the Senate foyer with Indigenous cer- ficult to celebrate Canada and its communities remain chronically President Benny Michaud emonies and the Senate seats with history. For us, it is much more underfunded with lack of access Indigenous youth. By “indigeniz- appropriate to celebrate that we to health care, education services, s we mark the 150th anni- ing” the Senate on June 7, I hope we have survived the past 150 years, culturally relevant programming, versary of Confederation, showed what Parliament in a recon- as opposed to celebrating the and again, without any land. From A Canadians are celebrating ciled Canada might look like. It was a events of this past century and a our perspective it is as if Canada the history and achievements of powerful sight to behold. half. is a tenant who is 150+ years late this young country. But for many But one day isn’t enough. We’re The building of the Canadian in rent payments, while watching Indigenous people in Canada, there ready to make use of what we state was largely at the expense those same tenants spend money is little to celebrate. It’s in moments learned that day and to start build- of Indigenous people and was on new lawn ornaments. of reflection like these that we have ing that future. largely for the benefit of others. We recognize that there are the chance to chart a brighter path Youth forum participants have As Canada expanded across the Métis citizens and Métis youth forward—but it’s going to take dia- put together a report in the Senate Métis Homeland, Métis people who will feel comfortable cel- logue, fresh ideas and a hint of style, outlining our findings and were forced to flee their homes ebrating Canada 150 and we youthful energy. compiling our recommendations, and communities to avoid the encourage those who do, to cel- To some, 150 years might seem to paint the clearest of pictures of violence, intimidation and racism ebrate in whatever way they feel like a long time, but Indigenous how youth see the path forward. We that came along with it. comfortable. We ask though, that peoples have been leaving foot- presented this report to the Senate In Ontario, our people have our own citizens who do choose prints on this land we call Canada Committee on Aboriginal Peoples built, over centuries, strong and to celebrate, be understanding for much longer than that. Indige- on June 20, 2017. vibrant communities. Our his- and respectful of those who do nous peoples grow up learning that The recommendations include toric, rights-bearing communi- not feel they can participate. their ancestors lived on this land concrete steps that the Senate can ties wrap around Lake Huron and In addition, we ask that those for time immemorial — since the take, including advocating for a cur- along the shores of the rivers that who celebrate Canada 150 take Great Turtle offered his back to the riculum for school boards that will our ancestors used as highways. Paintings from the series “I some time to research Ontario woman that fell through the hole in help future generations understand These traditional highways sit forgot who I was, but now I Métis history and Métis history the sky. As a young person from the how the lived realities of Indigenous upon the shores of Lake Superior remember” by Métis artist in general. Take time to research Métis community, that was how I peoples in Canada have come to pass. and extend through the forests of and Region One MNO Youth Indigenous history in relation to was raised. We also looked at ways to mean- North-Western Ontario, connect- Council Representative Kelly the Canadian state, and approach Non-Indigenous Canadians are ingfully engage First Nations, Métis ed through kinship and story to Duquette. The series speaks this research with an open mind not taught this in detail. Nor were and Inuit in government, business, our Métis relatives on the prairies. to the history of Métis and understand that for us, they taught the rest of our shared education and media. In our historic communities, people having to hide their the past 150 years have been history in my grade-school and We are committed to seeing this the land speculation, illegal sales, identity and the modern traumatic. secondary-school classrooms. As change through by bringing with us intimidation and use of physical reemergence of Métis pride We recognize that there are a result, I was not formally taught the determination and energy that force drove us out of our villag- and reclamation of culture. positive steps being taken to about the residential schools, the can only come from youth. es; forcing us to hide our heads, build new relationships between “Sixties Scoop,” or how these trau- Canada 150 cannot just be to remain silent and to hide our the Métis Nation and Canada as mas will affect our people for seven about celebrating the past—it must identity. The result was a decima- of resources, residential and day well as between Métis citizens generations until I was in my sec- have at its core honest introspec- tion of our culture and way of life. schools and cultural genocide. and Canadians. We believe that a ond year of university. tion. Only then can Canadians find Outside of our historic com- Today we suffer the traumatic better future is possible and that Parliament, and the chambers in themselves the will to do better munities, Metis people have effects of these historical injustic- it is something we can all work that dwell within it, are places that going forward. founded and maintained contem- es while simultaneously combat- towards. However, we also believe have embodied colonial rule over The stepping stones are in place: porary communities in Ontario’s ting today’s current injustices that that this future must be built on Indigenous peoples—a rule which the Truth and Reconciliation Com- urban centers; bound together seem to continue. These injustices a true Nation to Nation relation- designed, created and carried out mission’s Calls to Action, the memo- by our common history, culture, include, but are not limited to, ship, where Métis people, his- many of the roots of these traumas. randums of understanding between way of life, and a common desire the crisis of the missing and mur- tory and rights are respected and But these structures don’t have to be the federal government and Indig- to build a future for our people in dered Indigenous women, lack valued. We look forward to the symbolic of the suffering of Indig- enous governments, Canada’s com- spite of our traumatic history with of equitable funding, deforesta- return of our lands and full recog- enous peoples anymore. mitment to the United Nations the colonial state. tion, a total lack of a land base in nition of our right to self-govern- On June 7, the Senate of Cana- Declarations on the Rights of Indig- Our historic experiences with Ontario, pollution, environmental ment and self-determination. da hosted a two-part event (called enous Peoples and Prime Minister Canada have largely been nega- degradation on our traditional ter- Youth Indigenize the Senate) prov- ’s mandate letters to tive; dispossession from land, loss ritories and more often than not, a ing this exactly—that charting a new ministers reaffirming that nation-to- relationship between Canada and its nation relationships between Can- First Nations, Inuit and Métis peo- ada and Indigenous peoples are of The Metis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Youth Council is the official voice of Ontario Métis Youth. The MNO ples starts with retaking the politi- paramount importance. Youth Council works collectively, to advocate for the interests and concerns of Ontario Métis youth at the local, cal space. I was fortunate enough to Together, we can make the next regional, national and international levels. The MNO Youth Council consists of nine regional representatives have participated in one part of this 150 years a source of pride for all and a President that are elected in province wide, ballot box elections every four years. event, which was a forum co-hosted Canadians. For additional information, contact MNO Youth Council President Mitch Case at [email protected] Métis Voyageur October 2017, Issue no. 97 31

All opinions represent the views of the writers and do not necessarily EDITORIALS reflect the positions and policies of the Métis Nation of Ontario.

try to act like a rattlesnake when you approach them. They coil up, rattle their tail and strike at you. My wonderful wife hates snakes, ast month [the previous so she insists that when we see one issueL of the Métis Voyageur] I sub- on the property, I have to catch it, mitted a short story of what it was put it in a large pail, and cart it off like for our ancestors, our families to the marsh to let it go. Well, this and us to be Métis. I used the anal- one time a few years ago, there was ogy that everyone’s life is a book. one of the most colorful fox snakes Actually, some could be best sellers, I have ever seen. It was basking in but mine, unfortunately would be the sun on the dock. It was a big just a book. one, close to six feet long. I walked Being Métis is just a small part up to it slowly and knelt down qui- of our lives. It is to our advantage etly. In a few minutes it got curi- to be blessed with a mixed culture, ous and crawled over to me and and we can live it to its fullest or we stretched out by my knees. I wait- can just go through the motions. ed a few minutes and then slid my I prefer to live it large. There is hand under its belly and picked it an interesting mix in our blood, up. I have never seen a wild reptile whether it is French, German, this friendly and unafraid. Dutch Scotch, English, Danish or The lady across the street was a mixture of many First Nations terrified of snakes, so I wanted to and Caucasian people to make us show her that they all aren’t going what we are. Some, sadly, never get to do us harm. After a lot of coax- to investigate their “Indian” side, ing, she agreed to touch it, and after so they celebrate the euro blood, that she held it and it cuddled up which is wonderful in its own right. on her arm and around her neck. When I think that we have our own Unfortunately, that was the extent culture and language and are recog- of her bravado, and she asked me nized by the government as Indig- to take it. I was just about to let it enous, it warms my heart knowing go when I noticed my other neigh- we are special. bor was sitting on a low stool pol- I don’t exactly know how the ishing his Harley Davidson in his Aboriginal blood that is flowing driveway. I knew he didn’t like through our veins can have such snakes, and was afraid of them. an impact on the way we think of I decided to let the snake go ourselves. beside our house so it could go When we were children, we back down to the water, but instead played cowboys and “Indians,” as it turned and headed right through most kids did. I always wanted to be the chain link fence toward him. He the “Indian” and of course I got tied Seven year old Senator Jim Turner was facing away from me and didn’t to a tree and shot a thousand times. see the snake crawling toward him. I was always Tonto, my pals always It was too late for me to grab it as it argued over who would be the Lone sky. He let it fly and we like “Indians,” but not was already through the fence and Ranger. I thought on this for a while all strained our eyes to knowing why. We just on his side. As luck would have it, and came to the conclusion it wasn’t keep track of it. Then, did what came natural I think the snake wanted to make such a good idea being the “Indian” all of a sudden we lost A to us. friends with him to as it crawled all the time, so I became a cowboy. track of it in the sun. It was a real good right over his foot and laid there There was just one small problem, Time to run! We were Personal experience not to have between him and his bike. He was no one wanted to be the “Indian”, in a rather large yard, the best back then, startled, and jumped up to get away [and] so we drew straws. As I look and no safe place to Statement because we appreci- from it. I had to explain that there back now, there was a parallel then hide, so the boy with ated things more as was nothing to worry about but he as there is now. my boots threw down By Senator Jim Turner we matured. Now my didn’t seem to be receptive to this I recall another incident when the bow and started to MNO Windsor-Essex-Kent Métis Council wife gets mad at me explanation. I apologized, grabbed we were kids. Because we were run in circles. There’s when I go out and buy the snake, put it around my neck country boys, we knew how to an old adage called things because it has to and took it back to the dock, where make slingshots, slings, and bows Murphy’s Law. If some- be the best. We always it immediately jumped in the water, and arrows out of hickory. None thing can go wrong, it believed that if you and swam away, never to be seen of it was very fancy, but they did will. The arrow came down, and that in those days, [so] you had to owned something and you took again. work. We mooched some old bro- as he was running it hit him in the make your own fun outdoors, We good care of it, it would last forever, Since then there have been a ken down arrows from a neighbor foot, and went right into the heel of didn’t know it at the time, but this and generally it did. Today, unfor- lot of snakes around the property, that was into archery. He gave us my brand new boots. Miraculously, is as close to the life that a Métis kid tunately it’s a throwaway society! but there has never been a snake as seven arrows, but only two were it didn’t hit him in the foot to hard, should be blessed to live. We were I don’t harvest or hunt any- friendly as that one. That fox snake any good. They had all their feath- but put a nice round hole in the outside all the time and at peace more. I somehow saw that all living was one of a kind, like the coy fish ers and were straight. The bow I boot. I guess there is a lesson to be with the animals and nature. There creatures have feelings, and now in the pond across the street. made was fairly strong for its size learned from this as well. Always was always that connection. my granddaughter uses the shot- Why am I telling you all this? I [so] you could shoot one of those help your friends and neighbors, I must admit that when we went guns for trap and skeet. believe that the Creator gave us all good arrows up into the sky and even if it means getting a hole in to school, the teacher always said I My neighbor across the street the ability to connect with Moth- they would go quite high. You your new boots. was a dreamer. I stared out the win- has a large pond. They have the er Earth, nature and all she has to had to keep your eye on it so you Growing up in the country was dow all the time, and didn’t do as usual things like bullfrogs, small give us. We must learn to listen to wouldn’t lose track of it before real freedom. You could fish, catch well as I should have on my stud- ducks and a lot of gold fish. There nature, don’t question it, and it will it turned to come down. That’s tadpoles and bullfrogs with a piece ies. I always thought I should be is one in particular that always become more important and sacred the time you started to take cover of red cloth on a string, bring home outside not cooped up in that class- wants his belly and head rubbed. to our inner self. under a tree or the overhang of the snakes in our shirts and let them go room, I believe there is a powerful He’s a large coy, about sixteen inch- As we age, we lose some of the house. in the kitchen and watch my moth- gene in our bloodstream from our es long. He loves to be petted and ability to see what was given to us. One time my dad bought me er scream and run. Baby squirrels First Nations grandmothers that is rubbed. If you stick your hand in We take things for granted. We my first pair of rubber boots. The and raccoons were a novelty. Paint- overpowering at times. the water it swims over, nuzzles have to remember our connection neighbor kids who came from a ed turtles were fun to have. We We didn’t have a lot of money, your hand with its head and then to Mother Earth, as she supplies family of nine and were as poor as drilled a small hole in the overhang but my parents made do. We had moves up and kind of rolls to the everything we will ever need in life. church mice, was at our house. He of the shell above the tail and put a small, but cozy house, near the side and wants his belly rubbed. I To quote a First Nations elder, thought we were rich because we 100 yards of fishing string on it. We water, with plenty of marsh around suggested to them that I couldn’t go he says about children and adults had clothes that just about fit and kept them for a few days like that the area. Of course it’s all developed fishing again as I am sure they have alike: Listen to the wind, we hear it didn’t have to drink out of cups that before letting them go. There was now, but back then, no one wanted feelings and need love. Well, I like talk. Listen to the silence, we hear it were converted from peanut butter one, a real friendly turtle, which I this low land and swamp. This was to fish so I will have to set those speak. Listen to your heart, it knows! jars like they did. The boy had to snuck into my bedroom. He had about the time I started pressuring feelings aside for a while. Anecdotes and stories are what try on my new boots, and to look the run of the room, but in the my mother for information about We have a lot of large Fox spark the imagination. My hope at him with his pants legs tucked morning that turtle was nowhere to our First Nation relatives. As with snakes in our area and they live all is that mine aren’t too boring, and in you’d have thought he had just be found. It never did turn up. last month’s story, that didn’t bode along the shoreline. Some of them you can get a laugh or two from won the lottery. Well, it was his There were no cell phones, tele- well and so we went along through are about four or five feet long. them. May the creator show us the turn to shoot the arrow up into the visions, computers or anything like our daily lives living and thinking Instinctively as their defense, they way. Métis Voyageur 32 October 2017, Issue no. 97 FAMILY & MILESTONES Birth Announcement eva katherine lynn BLANCHETTE

teven and Katie Blanchette are happy to announce the safe arrival of Eva Katherine Lynn. She was born on July 6, 2017, weighing 6.12 pounds and 19.7 inches long. Eva is going to make another beautiful addition to our Métis family. Steve is a SMNO citizen and Harvester in Region 4. Submitted by: Roly Blanchette

étis Nation of Ontario in the cold mornings their ink would be loved curling and attended many of (MNO) citizen Winifred frozen and they would have to make a Briers. Obituary Maude Tyrer passed away fire in the woodstove. She was very active in the community on September 18, 2017. She enjoyed her youth and had many and served on various boards. She MMaude was a sixth generation Métis close friends; she and her friend Mabel was a founding board member of whose ancestry can be traced back to the trapped muskrats and enjoyed fishing Payukotayno and Sagashtao Healing Historic Abitibi Inland Métis community. and many other activities. She loved to Lodge and served 28 consecutive years as Her ancestry on her father’s side can be stepdance. a councillor/board member for the Town traced back to Eeyou Istchee/Scottish She met her husband, Tom Tyrer, of Moosonee. She was a member of the fur traders and on her mother’s side when she was a young girl on Charleton Ontario Métis Aboriginal Association for to Mushkegowuk/English/Scottish fur Island and they became friends. They 13 years and served 10 years with the traders. maintained their friendship throughout Moosonee Friendship Centre, 11 years Maude was born on April 19, 1922 their years; they married on April 22, with Keewaytinook Legal Services, six in Eastmain Quebec. She was the fourth 1944 in Elmvale, Ontario - just 25 days years with Living Skills and five years child to Alexander and Marion Louttit. before he left for service in World War II. with Timmins Housing and Moosonee Her older brothers were Reg and Jim Upon Tom’s return from the war Non-Profit Housing. She also helped out Louttit and her older sister was Iris they lived in various places including in the Anglican Church and with running Rose – her sister died at the early age Barrie and Hearst but eventually the Tea Room. of five and is buried in Eastmain. She settled in Moosonee. They had four Maude always had a positive attitude is survived by her younger sister Stella children Lorne, Kathy, Carol Anne and and was always willing to help; we never Hand of Alberta as well as eight nephews Robert who provided them with 14 heard her complain. She loved life and and seven nieces. grandchildren 24 great-grandchildren had a wonderful sense of humour. She Maude grew up in Eastmain until and two great-great grandchildren. always took the time to stop and talk to Winnifred Maude the age of nine when her family moved Maude was a long-term employee of people, no matter who it was. Tyrer (Louttit) to Cochrane where her father worked Hudson’s Bay Company/Northern Stores. Most important to her was her family on completing the railway to Moosonee. She worked for them for 31 years and and she treasured spending time with April 19, 1922 – The family moved to Moosonee in 1933. retired on two separate occasions. them. September 18, 2017 Maude attended the first school in She loved sports and enjoyed playing Moosonee in a boxcar; she recalled that baseball and bowling; she especially - Submitted by Lorne Tyrer

Sailor’s Compass Mighty Stance Breaking Through by Anne Huguenin by Anne Huguenin by Robert J McDonald

Port to starboard We stand our ground Getting to know my dad wasn’t all that easy, Your heart was meant to sail Roots dug deep It was like hitting a brick wall. Drifting from this quiet harbour Others stand around Made my stomach queasy, And through life’s roughest gales Some just weep Ya, he worked hard to put a roof over our heads Come Fall our tops change to bright and food on the table, A skilful sailor, as the day is long Like waving flames without a sound But drawing his attention became A smiling face from the very start Against the shortened blue sky light nothing but a fable, For the land you set your feet upon We fall gently to the ground It’s hard to explain. Difficult to tell, Has left an imprint in our heart Fear not the green of Spring You see, he grew up a victim of When all comes alive again residential day school hell, Guided by the stars, the moon And the birds do sing He refused to talk about it but in his eyes I could see, The winds have carried you Perch upon us our good friends There were many hidden secrets he wanted to let be, To a peaceful place beyond We bend and reach towards the sun Still, he lost his language, Above the skies so blue Seeking Summer’s warmth to help us grow he said he spoke Michef my son, Each and every one Forced to give it up for English A true Captain of the seas Not forgetting Winter winds that blow or suffer another lash from the nun, One we are all so glad we knew Stand your ground To be clear, he rarely spoke, yet his silence was loud, We’ll sing you those old sea shanties Roots dug deep He never told me he loved me or said he was proud, From your friends, the DH crew Leaps and bounds He seldom showed emotion, he never offered a hug, Sky’s tears we keep It made me feel sad. It gave my heart a tug, A skillful sailor, as the day is long Feed our spirit Even as he lay dying in his hospital bed, A smiling face from the very start Feed our soul I thought he’d finally speak, The land you set your feet upon Shade come near it Or at least turn the other cheek, Has left an imprint in our heart Our mighty bole However, it wasn’t meant to be, Mother Earth, born to the land Because you see, Andrew, you will be missed around our table From her bosom free There was no one by his side. He passed away alone, Father Sky above, from where we stand I heard it through Facebook and a call on the phone, Once tiny seedling to wise old tree And while questions remain unanswered, it finally dawned, For now I understand that all the pain is gone. CELEBRATE WITH THE MÉTIS NATION OF ONTARIO

THE 24TH MNO ANNUAL GENERAL ASSEMBLY – AUGUST 19-21, KENORA, ONTARIO

Métis culture, growth and We Are progress on self-government celebrated at MNO Annual Thriving General Assembly see pages 2-5

Governance Volunteer of the Year Métis Leadership AGA Award Culture pages 7-13 & Resolutions page 6 pages 14-15 Métis Voyageur B2 October 2017, Issue no. 97

• AGA 2017 Overview •

Métis fiddler Alicia Blore leads the procession of MNO leaders and other dignitaries following the landing of traditional Voyageur canoes.

Photo by Vanessa Galpin We Are

The first traditional voyageur canoe prepares to dock Thriving after arriving at Anicinabe Park. The 24th Métis Nation of Ontario Annual General Assembly (AGA) was one of the most successful to date, attracting over 400 MNO citizens and guests to events throughout Kenora and area.

s is tradition, events started the evening of Friday, Au- gust 18, when an excited crowd met Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Acting President France Picotte and other MNO leaders as they landed in The AGA is Métis threeA voyageur canoes at Anicinabe Park in Kenora. Acting President Picotte was joined self-government in by a number of dignitaries and supporters action. Decisions of the MNO including federal Minister of The second traditional Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern made at the AGA voyageur canoe salutes the Affairs Dr. , provincial Min- the province for cheering crowd at it arrives ister of Indigenous Relations and Reconcili- at Anicinabe Park. ation David Zimmer and Kenora Member of generations to come.” Parliament Robert Nault. Following the canoe landings, the MNO MNO Acting President leaders and dignitaries led a procession to a FRANCE PICOTTE The third traditional nearby stage where welcoming remarks were voyageur canoe paddles made to the enthusiastic crowd. “The AGA its way towards the docks is Métis self-government in action,” com- “and are looking forward to a productive and at Anicinabe Park. mented Acting President Picotte, “decisions exciting AGA.” made at the AGA make a difference in the Shortly after the arrival of the dignitaries lives of Métis across the province for genera- another canoe arrived; this time containing tions to come.” the members of the 2017 MNO Canoe Expe- Kenora is one of the MNO communities dition. Kenora was the final stop in their 2200 in Region 1, which is represented by Provi- kilometre trek across Ontario that started in sional Council of the Métis Nation of Ontario Ottawa on May 23. “It was a tremendous ef- (PCMNO) Region 1 Councilor Theresa Sten- fort for our young voyageurs,” stated Acting lund. “We are very pleased to welcome MNO President Picotte, “they paddled and por- citizens from across the province to beauti- taged the historic fur trade routes of their ful Kenora,” commented Councilor Stenlund, continued on page 3 Métis Voyageur October 2017, Issue no. 97 B3

• AGA 2017 Overview •

 Crowds of well-wishers greet the MNO Canoe Expedition members after they land at Anicinabe Park near Kenora.

MNO veterans stand (Left to right) Member of Parliament Robert Nault, MNO Acting President France Picotte, at attention during the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Dr. Carolyn Bennett, Acting opening ceremony on MNO Chair Sharon Cadeau and PCMNO Region 1 Councilor Theresa Stenlund. Saturday, August 19.

continued from page 3 from Premier Kathleen Wynne that featured Métis ancestors and made stops in communi- footage from when she joined the MNO ties all along the way to talk about and teach Canoe Expedition for four days when they Métis culture and heritage.” The MNO Canoe were in the Fort Frances area (see the full Expedition members were part of a group of story in the MNO Canoe Expedition section). Let me commend the leadership of the MNO of over 50 Métis youth who participated in the Premier Wynne stated: “Together [the MNO AGA. (For more information on the Canoe and Ontario] we are taking real steps towards their signing of the Memorandum of Understanding Expedition see our Special Section) reconciliation and healing. Let me commend Following the landing of the Canoe Ex- the leadership of the MNO of their signing of to Advance Reconciliation with the Government pedition MNO Acting Chair Sharon Cadeau the Memorandum of Understanding to Ad- of Canada earlier this year. It is a historic step gave the assembled crowd a chance to ask vance Reconciliation with the Government of questions to the young voyageurs in an im- Canada earlier this year. It is a historic step forward in advancing the MNO’s relationship of promptu question and answer period. This forward in advancing the MNO’s relationship respect and recognition with the Crown.” was followed by great Métis entertainment of respect and recognition with the Crown from Sierra Noble and the Winnipeg Infinity and that is supported by everything the MNO Métis Jiggers with musical accompaniment and Ontario have accomplished together Ontario Premier by Clint Dutiaume. since formalizing our working relationship KATHLEEN WYNNE The official AGA got underway early Sat- in 2008.” In his own remarks, Minister Zim- urday morning, August 19, with a procession mer, who was attending his fifth consecutive led by a MNO Veterans’ Council colour party AGA, stressed how significant it was that the Minister Zimmer received was a framed pic- When he suggested the map was a very ef- followed by MNO Senators and women. Act- Premier spent four full days of her incredibly ture of the MNO Canoe Expedition route with fective promotional tool and recommended ing MNO Chair Sharon Cadeau called the hectic schedule with the MNO Canoe Expe- a stylized picture melding together a famous the MNO utilize it even more, Acting Chair meeting to order and kept the meeting ahead dition. “It [her participation in the Canoe Ex- Voyageur canoe painting by Frances Hopkins Cadeau was quick to ask (half-jokingly) if of schedule with aplomb and diplomacy. pedition] demonstrates, and it was intended and a picture of the 2017 Canoe Expedition. the MNO could count on the government for Acting MNO Vice-Chair, Executive Senator to demonstrate, and it does demonstrate her When receiving the print, Minister Zimmer funding for that purpose. Joseph Poitras aided Acting Chair Cadeau very sincere efforts, my very sincere efforts, commented on a similar one he had received The second gift was the framing of a print throughout the AGA and provided impor- the province’s very sincere efforts to continue in 2014 commemorating the Canoe Expedi- by Métis artist Kelly Duquette, who also at- tant updates, information and clarifications to build a rock solid relationship with the tion that year. He indicated that visitors to tended the AGA in several capacities and who on procedures. Métis Nation of Ontario.” his office, who are not exclusively Métis or is well-known within the MNO for both her The Opening Ceremonies then proceeded Minister Zimmer was one of the first to be Indigenous but who come from all kinds of art and her activism. The framed print is part with greetings for special guests and MNO presented with one of the two special gifts backgrounds, are constantly commenting of a series that depict cultural activities that leaders. Minister Zimmer introduced a video given out at this year’s AGA. The one that and asking questions about the 2014 map. continued on page 4 Métis Voyageur B4 October 2017, Issue no. 97

• AGA 2017 Overview •

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have united the Métis people and defined fices to 32. This new program will address Métis identity and nationhood for centu- intergenerational trauma, reduce violence ries. The print presented at the AGA is called and address the over-representation of In- Harvesting and depicts two women gathering digenous children and youth in the child medicinal plans. Their silhouettes are located welfare and justice systems. Acting President in the centre of the canvas, trapped between Picotte also reported the MNO provided ed- layers of paint and glazes. ucation and training support to 849 clients Kenora Member of Parliament (MP) Nault and post-secondary education bursaries to 5 represented the federal government during 200 students in 42 institutions. The MNO the Opening Ceremonies and spoke about provided healing and wellness services to how using historic Métis genealogy charts over 2000 clients through over 20,000 activ- that were on display at the AGA meeting ities and events. The MNO also grew in the space in the Kenora Recreation Centre he had area of duty to consult and accommodate. been able to identify some of his Métis an- The MNO processed over 5000 proponent cestry including someone at the AGA who is and government notices, engaged over 100 his cousin. MP Nault took the opportunity to industry proponents and managed over 80 formally announce on behalf of the Honour- agreements including five Impact and Ben- able , Minister of Employment, efit Agreements. “As you can see,” said Act- Workforce Development and Labour, that the ing President Picotte, “we are thriving and MNO will be receiving more than 2.2 million there are more activities than ever before. dollars through the federal Skills and Part- This progress is because of all of you [the nerships Fund. The funding will be support- AGA delegates] it is the accumulation of two ing a project called MNO Skilled Employ- decades of working – it is because of strong ment and Energy Stream that will assist up Métis leaders working together.” to 72 people from across Ontario overcome The area of Métis rights and self-govern- barriers to employment in the energy sector. ment was a major focus of the AGA. Métis MP Nault said: “The reality is there are very rights lawyer Jason Madden indicated that real barriers to employment for many Métis after many years of slow progress in this area, and Indigenous people in our country and key wins at the Supreme Court such as Dan- want to ensure that everyone who wants to iels v. Canada and the cooperation of both the work has the opportunity to do so. [I want federal and provincial government, is now to convey] the message that the federal gov- generating real momentum behind Métis 6 ernment hears you and listens to what you rights and self-government. In his presen- are saying.” tation, Madden spoke about the upcoming 1) Métis artist Sierra Noble wows the crowd during the Welcome to the AGA with her Following the speeches by the dignitaries, joint announcement between Ontario and amazing talent. 2) The Winnipeg Infinity Métis Jiggers dance up a storm during the Acting President Picotte delivered the annual the MNO about six new communities join- Welcome to the AGA. 3) Minister Bennett proudly shows the Métis flag woven into State of the Nation address. She explained ing Sault Ste. Marie as historic communities the inside of her jacket. 4) The AGA was hosted by the four Region 1 MNO community that the number of MNO citizens continues and the significance of the announcement to councils, who were recognized during the AGA opening ceremony. (Left to right) to grow with the total now exceeding 21,000 Métis in Ontario (see page 5 in main section MNO Northwest Métis Council President Ronald Robinson, MNO Sunset Country Ontario residents. She also announced the for details). Métis Council President Clint Calder, MNO Atikokan and Area Métis Council President completion of the Root Ancestors Project While the Canoe Expedition members Marlene Davidson, MNO Kenora Métis Council President Joel Henley, PCMNO Region 1 that will assist even more of the 84,000 self- were definitely the heroes of the AGA, it was Councilor Theresa Stenlund and Acting MNO President France Picotte. 5) Provincial New identified Métis people in Ontario find their also apparent that it was not necessary to Democratic Party leader Andrea Horwath spoke near the end of the AGA. (Left to right) Métis heritage and become citizens (See page paddle across the province to show pride in PCMNO Region 9 Councilor Peter Rivers, Acting MNO President France Picotte, Ms. 4 in main section). Métis culture. A large number wore clothing Horwath, Métis artist and Region 1 MNO Youth Council Representative Kelly Paquette. 6) The MNO also experienced impressive decorated with colourful flower beadwork. MNO Secretary-Treasurer Tim Pile and his daughter MNO Oshawa Durham Métis Council program growth in the most recent fiscal The flower beadwork tradition is historically President Kristin Randall with Kristin’s children. 7) Clint Dutiaume (right) and a fiddler year. The new Métis Family Wellbeing pro- a key element of Métis culture and has seen with the Winnipeg Infinity Métis Jiggers provide some great jigging music. 8)A young gram has allowed the MNO to open seven a strong revival in the last several years; in Métis youth gets some fiddling lessons as part of youth activities. new offices bringing its total number of of- continued on page 5 Métis Voyageur October 2017, Issue no. 97 B5

• AGA 2017 Overview •

MNO Kenora Métis Council President Joel Henley welcomes AGA delegates to Kenora while the members of the PCMNO, Region 1 Caption of the Hunt Sandy Triskle and the Presidents of the MNO Atikokan and Area, Northwest and Sunset Country Métis Councils listen

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9 continued from page 4 particular among Métis youth. Métis young weaving. The program was featured in spe- people such as PCMNO Youth Representa- cial presentation on Monday morning along tive Mitch Case have become skilled in creat- with a video about Métis history in Region 1 ing beadwork that has been used to decorate co-produced by the MNO and Know History. many different kinds of clothing. Just before Know History has also been providing indi- 14 15 the AGA, over 60 young people had travelled vidual genealogical workshops with MNO to Kenora to participate in the MNO’s first citizens throughout the AGA. youth conference. The pride and excitement Councilor Stenlund and the Region 1 com- so many young people have for their Métis munity councils are excellent examples of the heritage and culture was readily apparent kind of volunteer work that is epitomized by throughout the AGA. so many MNO citizens. At every AGA, the The Saturday evening of the AGA fea- Suzanne Rochon-Burnett Volunteer of the tured a delicious fish fry followed by more Year Award is presented to one outstanding entertainment from the Winnipeg Infinity volunteer. This year it went to Greg Garratt Métis Jiggers as well as Clint Dutiaume and who is well-known across the MNO for his his band. The highlight for most, however, work as Secretary-Treasurer for the MNO was the Open Mic hosted by the charismatic Veterans’ Council and Captain of the Hunt James Wagar who introduced a wide number for Region 7. Greg was stunned by the award of very talented MNO citizens who enthusi- and while humbly accepting it took the time astically shared some songs and dances with to recognize the work done by all of the 16 17 the excited crowd. MNO’s many volunteers (see page B5). On the Sunday afternoon, AGA delegates As always, the last business at the AGA is were able to participate in a number of Métis the resolutions brought forward by citizens cultural activities including Métis games and through the Resolutions Committee. To view crafts led by the MNO Summer Cultural Stu- all the resolutions passed at this AGA go to dents and Canoe Expedition members as well pages B14-B15. During the discussion about as the world-famous Métis Voyageur games. the resolutions, the AGA received an unex- That evening, some AGA delegates enjoyed a pected and unscheduled guest. Andrea Hor- cruise of the incredibly beautiful Lake of the wath, the leader of the Ontario New Demo- Woods and others kicked up their heels at a cratic Party (NDP) happened to be in Kenora Dinner and Dance at the top of the elegant and stopped by the AGA to observe the pro- Clarion Inn Lakeside overlooking the Lake of ceedings. She was invited to speak and gave the Woods. an address outlining her support for the AGAs are never possible without hours MNO. She said: “I want you to know that of hard work from the regional community you can continue to count on New Demo- councils and the PCMNO Regional Coun- crats to build on your many achievements, to 9) Dr. Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs cillor. The Region 1 Community Councils: celebrate your rich heritage and to work to- (centre) is presented with stunning Métis artwork by Acting MNO President France the MNO Kenora, Sunset Country, Atikokan gether hand-in-hand to build a better future Picotte (left). The artwork was created by Kelly Duquette (right). 10) Provincial Minister and Area and Northwest Métis Councils all for the Métis people ... New Democrats share of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation David Zimmer speaking during the AGA contributed time and resources to make this your vision for a better future.” opening ceremonies.11) Acting MNO Chair Sharon Cadeau kept everything running AGA successful and PCMNO Region 1 Coun- By the time the AGA wrapped up on noon smoothly throughout all the business sessions. 12) Robert Nault, the Member of cilor Theresa Stenlund was involved in all the on Monday, the citizens were both exhausted Parliament for Kenora speaking during the AGA opening ceremonies.13)Acting MNO planning and work from the very beginning. but even more inspired to continue the work Vice-Chair Senator Joseph Poitras explaining AGA procedures. 14) PCMNO Region 4 They made sure that everyone at the AGA of building the Métis Nation. They can be Councilor Ernie Gatien was the first act during the Open Mic event on Saturday night. was well taken care of! proud of the growth and progress in all areas His rendition of Elvis classics set a high standard for the rest for the participants later A special youth program was organized by of the MNO’s operations and look optimisti- in the evening. 15) MNO laywer Jason Madden addresses the AGA. 16) There is always Councilor Stenlund whereby Métis youth at- cally to a brighter future that they are already time for some traditional dancing at the MNO AGA. 17) James Wagar leading the fun at tending the AGA participated in workshops in the process of building. Anicinabe Park. around traditional Métis cultural practices such as fiddling, jigging, fishing and finger Métis Voyageur B6 October 2017, Issue no. 97

• AGA 2017 • The 2017 Suzanne Rochon Burnett Volunteer of the Year Award

Acting MNO President France Picotte (left) presents MNO Veterans’ Council Secretary- Treasurer and Region 7 Captain of the Hunt Greg Garratt (right) with the 2017 Suzanne Rochon Burnett Volunteer of the Year Award.

uring the Saturday evening events of the MNO Annual General Assembly, MNO Act- ing President France DPicotte took the stage at Anicinabe Park to indicate she would be an- [Greg] has been nouncing the 2017 recipient of the working this way MNO Suzanne Rochon-Burnett Vol- unteer of the Year Award. She opened for years and the envelope with the recipient’s does not ask for name and decided to play a game with the audience to see how long it acknowledgement would take them to figure out who or any special would receive the award. “He volun- teered to serve in the Royal Canadian consideration. His Navy,” she started with; and “an ac- tive member of the MNO Veterans’ selfless dedication Council” she added; by this time a to his activities few names were buzzing but when she added Captain of the Hunt for Re- is reflective in gion 7 and Secretary-Treasurer of the the quality of MNO Veterans’ Council; enthusiastic Region 7 Captain of the Hunt applause broke out as those in atten- his efforts in all Greg Garratt’s involvement in dance shouted out “Greg Garratt!” positions.” the MNO Veterans’ Council, Greg of course was one of the last the Region 7 Consultation people to figure it out because in his Committee and the MNO MNO Veterans’ Council Chair typical humble way; he couldn’t be- Georgian Bay Métis Council BRIAN BLACK lieve he was the recipient. provides an excellent Greg was nominated on behalf of example of volunteerism. the MNO Veterans’ Council by MNO Veterans’ Council Chair Brian Black ask for acknowledgement or any spe- who stated: cial consideration. His selfless dedica- “Greg is an active volunteer in tion to his activities is reflective in the the MNO Veterans’ Council, he also quality of his efforts in all positions.” works on the Region 7 Consultation Greg was visibly moved by the pre- Committee and is the Region 7 Cap- sentation and when asked to give a tain of the Hunt. Any one of these few words graciously thanked all of volunteer positions would be a full- the MNO’s many volunteers who con- time job. Greg is doing three of them. tribute so much to the Métis Nation. He does not complain but only shows Greg Garratt joins the distin- enthusiasm and an overwhelming guished list of past worthy Suzanne need to contribute. Rochon-Burnett Volunteer of the Year This pattern of volunteer work is Award who all stand as shining exam- not new for Greg. He has been work- ples of the best in the Métis Nation of ing this way for years and does not Ontario. Métis Voyageur October 2017, Issue no. 97 B7

• AGA 2017 • Governance &Leadership

Provisional Council of the Métis Nation of Ontario

Members of the Provisional Council of the Métis Nation of Ontario (PCMNO) during the AGA opening ceremonies. The members of the PCMNO were a visible presence throughout the AGA, providing guidance and leadership but most importantly listening to the voices of MNO citizens.

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1) (Left to right) MNO Acting Chair Sharon Cadeau, Acting President France Picotte and Acting Vice-Chair Joesph Poitras following the landing of the traditional voyageur canoes. 2) PCMNO Region 4 Councilor Ernie Gatien speaking during the AGA business sessions. 3) PCMNO Youth Representative Mitch Case speaks at the AGA. 4) PCMNO Region 1 Councilor Theresa Stenlund presents a gift to the President of the Nuclear Waste Management Organization. 5) (Left to right) PCMNO Region 9 Councilor Peter Rivers and PCMNO Youth Representative Mitch Case. 6) (Left to right) PCMNO Region 7 Councilor Pauline Richardson and Acting PCMNO Executive Senator Ray Bergie. 7) (Left to right) Member of Parliament Robert Nault receives gift from PCMNO Region 1 Councilor Theresa Stenlund. Métis Voyageur B8 October 2017, Issue no. 97

• AGA 2017 •

Presidents of Chartered MNO Community Councils

All 29 MNO chartered Community MNO Community Council Presidents and designates who attended the Presidents meeting Front (left to right) Councils were represented at the at the 2017 MNO AGA in Kenora: Jennifer Parkinson (Grand River), William Gordon (Greenstone), Trent Desaulniers (Superior North Shore), Acting MNO President France AGA either by their President or Picotte, Marlene Davidson (Atikokan and Area), Yvonne Jensen (North Channel), Liliane Ethier by a designate. The Presidents met (Temiskaming), Karen Derocher (Credit River). Middle (left to right) Benny Michaud (Ottawa Region), prior to the AGA to discuss areas of Kristin Randall (Oshawa Durham), David Hamilton (Chapleau), Doug Hall (Northern Lights), Andrew common interest and concern and Buttenham (Clear Waters), David Dusome (Georgian Bay), Scott Lloyd (High Land Waters), Tony Muscat (Moon River), Derrick Pont (Niagara Region). Back (left to right) Marc Laurin (North Bay), provided leadership throughout Richard Sarrazin (Sudbury), Joe Paquette (Veterans), Todd Ross (Toronto York), Peter Couture (Great the AGA both at formal meetings Lakes), Ronald Robinson (Northwest), Nelson Montreuil (Mattawa), Jean Camirand (Thunder Bay), and informally at cultural and Joel Henley (Kenora). entertainment events where they are always among the most enthusiastic and involved participants. ∞

MNO Great Lakes Métis Council President Peter Couture participating MNO Niagara Region Métis Council President PCMNO Region 1 Councilor Theresa Stenlund, MNO in the Know History Genealogy Workshop. Derrick Pont and his daughter Amanda Pont- Superior North Shore Métis Council President Trent Shanks. Desaulniers and Region 1 Captain of the Hunt Sandy Triskle.

MNO North Channel Métis Council President Yvonne Jensen and her MNO Grand River Métis Council President Jennifer Parkinson speaking during the AGA business sessions. husband. Métis Voyageur October 2017, Issue no. 97 B9

• AGA 2017 •

Metis Nation of Ontario Senators

Highly respected for their knowledge, MNO Senators who attended the MNO AGA in Kenora in August 2017: Front (left to right) values and experience, Senators have Ken Two Dogs Fraser, Ray Bergie Joseph Poitrias, Verna Porter-Brunelle, Rene Gravelle, Patsy Dryden, Maryjane Buttenham, Constance Simmonds. Middle (left to right) a special place at the AGA where they Ralph Wolf Thistle, Guy Mandeville, Karen Cederwell, Gary Laframboise, Gerry Bedford, Richard provide guidance during important Meilluer, Joyceline Rose, Brenda Powley, Carol Levis. Back (left to right) Cecil Wagar, Brian deliberations, spiritual grounding Goulliquer, Larry Duval, Ken Simard, Al Roussin, Robert Lloyd, Christina Acton, Parmallia Burgie. throughout the AGA while also reminding citizens of their connections 2 to Métis heritage. ∞

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1) Senator Robert Lloyd shows he is still a force to be reckoned with during the traditional Métis games. 2) PCMNO Region 1 Councilor prepares to send some Senators off on a pontoon boat adventure. 3) Senator Cecil Wagar. 4) Senator Brian Gouliquer provides the AGA closing prayer. 5) Acting MNO Vice-Chair and Senator Joseph Poitras (left) with Métis artist Kelly Duquette. 6) Senator Karen Cederwell provides the AGA opening prayer during the opening ceremonies. Métis Voyageur B10 October 2017, Issue no. 97

• AGA 2017 •

Métis Nation of Ontario Youth

Prior to the AGA, the MNO Youth to explain the art of leadership; Métis youth who attended the Métis Youth Leadership Council organized the first Ontario Dr. Chantal Fiola who addressed Conference prior to the 2017 MNO AGA in Kenora. Métis Youth Leadership Conference how to uncover “who you are;” that was held at the Seven and the MNO Veterans’ Council Generations Education Institute in executive who shared their own Kenora. Over 60 Métis youth from vast leadership experience with the across the province attended and youth. participate in plenary and workshop This was also the largest youth sessions to build their leadership contingent ever at the AGA. Youth skills and talk about the future of participated in all elements of the the Métis Nation that they will be AGA. Participating youth included building. Speakers included Lindasy the members of the MNO Youth Dupré who spoke about deepening Council, MNO Infinite Reach MNO Youth Representative Mitch Case with his colleagues from relationships with First Nations Facilitators, Youth Representatives other provinces. (Left to right) Métis Nation British Columbia and Inuit communities; Todd Ross on chartered MNO community Minister of Youth Cassidy Caron, Métis Nation-Saskatchewan who spoke about media and public councils, the MNO Summer Youth Youth Representative Jaycee Bell, Chair of the Manitoba Metis relations; Kai Minosh Pyle who Cultural Program members and Federation Youth Council Tyler Thomas and Mitch Case. spoke about revitalizing Michif; the members of the MNO Canoe Jaime Koebel who used jigging Expedition. ∞

PCMNO Youth Representative Mitch Case speaking during the MNO Youth Council report.

PCMNO Post-Secondary Representative Katelyn LaCroix speaking during the AGA  Participants in the MNO Youth business sessions. Council conference prior to the AGA proudly display their work after one of the conference workshops.

 The MNO Youth Council ran a booth throughout the trade show. Here Samantha Case helps out. Métis Voyageur October 2017, Issue no. 97 B11

• AGA 2017 •

Métis Nation of Ontario Veterans' Council

The MNO Veterans’ Council is a strong The MNO Veterans’ Council Executive at the 2017 AGA: (left to right) presence at every AGA. They provide Chair Brian Black, Sgt-at-Arms Douglas Wood, President Joseph Paquette, Women’s Representative Shelly Claus, Veterans’ Senator Guy Mandeville C.D., Secretary-Treasurer Greg the colour party in the procession Garratt. following the entrance of the canoes during the Welcome to the AGA event and during the Opening and Closing ceremonies. They hold their own meeting and also participate fully in the deliberations of the full AGA. ∞

 The MNO Veterans’ Council preparing to give their report during the AGA.

 The Colour Party leading the procession into the hall during the AGA opening ceremony. (Left to right) MNO Veterans’ Council Women’s Representative Shelley Claus, Métis youth Gerald Lavalee, MNO Veterans’ Council Chair Brian Black and MNO Veterans’ Council Secretary-Treasurer Greg Garratt.

The MNO Veterans’ Council presented certificates of appreciation to sponsors who supported their Vimy Ridge Commemoration Project. (Left to right) Devi Shantilal and Matthew Gatien from Hydro One, Wendy Landry from Union Gas, MNO Veterans’ Council President Joseph Paquette and Ross MNO Veterans’ Council President Joe Paquette shares MNO Veterans’ Council Senator Guy Holden from the Nuclear Waste Management Organization. his knowledge with Métis youth Joanna Burt. Mandeville engages with the youth. Métis Voyageur B12 October 2017, Issue no. 97

• AGA 2017 •

Participants in the MNO Women’s Gathering prior to the 2017 Annual General Assembly. Métis Women: together and stronger than ever

n the days prior to the An- The MNO can expect to see a lot nual General Assembly in Kenora; history was made. more of the yellow-shawled women Thanks to funding recently received from the Status of as they move forward to advance Women Canada, the Métis women’s issues and perspective Nation of Ontario Women’s Council I(formerly Women’s Secretariat of the throughout the community as a whole Métis Nation of Ontario) was able to and in their own home communities. bring together community council Women’s Representatives, women Senators and other Métis women Lateral violence can be described between the Women’s Representa- leaders for the first time. This fund- as displaced violence directed tives is in effect and the MNO can ing will allow the MNO Women’s against one’s peers rather than one’s expect to see a lot more of the yel- Council and the Women’s Repre- true adversaries. Although many low-shawled women as they move sentatives to meet, learn and plan disempowered and oppressed peo- forward to advance women’s issues together for the next three years. ple such as women and immigrants and perspective throughout the For this first meeting, the women experience this, the experience of community as a whole and in their undertook and intensive two-day Indigenous communities with lat- own home communities. workshop, networking and plan- eral violence is the direct result of The sessions ended with tradi- ning session and incredible momen- colonialism (and the systemic ex- tional Métis crafting opportuni- tum was gained from their energy. clusion of the Métis), residential ties brought to the group by skilled Over the course of these two days schools, discrimination, and racism. and generous women of the MNO. the women bonded, learned, shared The women found this to be a very Susan Jackson walked the group and planned for the future of their valuable workshop, as it included through the challenging task of work in the MNO. collective problem solving and real- making baby moccasins and even Among the highlights of the ses- life scenarios to work through to- with her patience and prepped ma- sion was a workshop from Cor- gether. The women then had an op- terials, for many, it was still a com- The Women’s poral Cheryle Hayden, Métis portunity to shake it off with a fun, edy of errors, which she gladly Gathering and Outreach Officer for the Royal Ca- physical self-defense activity with helped up fix. Each woman spoke MNO Women’s nadian Mounted Police (RCMP). Corporal Hayden. In gratitude for about who their creations were for Council meetings Corporal Hayden’s approach gen- her generous and warm contribu- and in the end, we all had beauti- were wonderful tly challenged the women to en- tions to their learning, the women ful soft baby moccasins to gift. For occasions providing gage with one another and to dig bestowed Corporal Hayden with a those of who are less dexterous, To- many opportunities deep on tough topics. This work- Métis woman’s shawl. bias Clarke led the group through for fellowship and shop included an improv exercise With a strong foundation formed, a porcupine quill earring workshop discussion on issues that helped to open women up to the women dove into the business while sharing the story of how the critical to Métis each other right from the begin- of understanding their roles, iden- porcupine got its quills. It was a re- women. ning. It was a fun activity that gave tifying their needs and creating so- laxing and connecting closure to a the women an opportunity to laugh lutions together. In a full day fa- perfect two days. together as they faced improv chal- cilitated by MNO staff, the women The women would like to extend lenges and built trust. This was an tackled barriers and generated new gratitude to all of the contributors, important foundation for another ideas; a report is being generated to facilitators, financial supporters, workshop led by Corporal Hayden set in motion the action plan. Al- and allies who help to make this on lateral violence. ready, increased communication journey possible. Métis Voyageur October 2017, Issue no. 97 B13

• AGA 2017 •

Métis Nation of Ontario Captains of the Hunt

The Captains of the Hunt (COTH) play MNO Captains of the Hunt at the MNO AGA in Kenora in August 2017: Front row (left to right) an integral role in the management of Gerry Bedford (Region 8), Greg Garratt (Region 7), Acting Chief Captain of the Hunt France Picotte, Sandy Triskle (Region 1). Back row (left to right) Brain Tucker (Deputy Métis rights. One COTH is assigned Chief Captain of the Hunt), Ken Simard (Region 2), Tom Thompson (Region 6), Peter Rivers to each of the Traditional Harvest (Region 9) Missing Andy Lefebvre (Region 3), Art Bennett (Region 4), Richard Sarrazin (Region 5). Territories within Ontario and is mandated) to have full authority over the Métis harvest in their respective region. The COTH act as a direct line of communication between Harvesters and the MNO and MNRF. They help manage the annual harvest in concert with the province of Ontario, support the implementation of the Interim Harvesting Policy and determine the appropriate management of the harvest in their respective regions. Considering the important roles played by the COTH it is important that they attend the AGA so they can discuss pertinent issues with harvesters and 1 citizens. ∞

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1) Region 4 Captain of the Hunt Art Bennett relaxes with his friends from the Métis Voyageur Development Fund during the Sunday night dinner and dance. 2) (Left to right) Region 1 Captain of the Hunt Sandy Triskle with MNO Kenora Métis Council Secretary Nina Henley and PCMNO Region 1 Councilor Theresa Stenlund at the Sunday night dinner and dance. 3) Region 7 Captain of the Hunt Greg Garratt receiving the Volunteer of the Year Award. 4) Region 5 Captain of the Hunt Richard Sarrazin danced up a storm at the Sunday night dinner and dance. Métis Voyageur B14 October 2017, Issue no. 97

• AGA 2017 Resolutions •

Resolutions AGAth 2017 Resolutions of the 24 Annual General Assembly of the Métis Nation of Ontario held August 19 - 21, 2017, at the Lakeside Inn and Conference Centre, Kenora, Ontario.

Resolution No.: AGA17-06 by the MNO has had issues in communicating Ontario” and/or “Métis Veterans” license plate WHEREAS the government of Ontario has Title: Financial Support for MNO Women’s, with Community Councils, planning the graphic; and made repeated commitments to establish a Veterans’ and Youth Councils logistics surrounding Community Arrivals, and monument in recognition of Louis Riel. Mover: Joseph Paquette communicating between the Expedition staff, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT this work Seconder: Mitchell Case Head Office, and the MNO Executive. be completed before the 25th Annual General THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT future Assembly of the MNO. Louis Riel Day ceremonies no longer be held at WHEREAS the MNO Veterans’ Council THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the MNO: the Northwest Rebellion monument at Queen’s (MNOVC), MNO Women’s Council (MNOWC) RESOLVED BY CONSENSUS Park or any monuments commemorating those and MNO Youth Council (MNOYC) do 1. Seeks funding to run and implement a (AGA17-09) who were committed to oppressing Métis incredible work for their constituents and for the Canoe Expedition in 2020, affording Métis communities; entire provincial Métis community, yet currently youth in Ontario a new opportunity to receive no funding from the Métis Nation of retrace the historic route of their ancestors; Resolution No.: AGA17-10 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the MNO Ontario Secretariat; and Title: Mental Health for Métis Youth continue to press the Federal and Provincial WHEREAS the MNOVC, MNOWC and MNOYC Mover: Katelyn LaCroix Governments for the establishment of are provincial in scope and mandate; and 2. Pursues additional funding to implement Seconder: Mitchell Case monuments in Ontario which recognizes the WHEREAS the MNOVC, MNOWC and MNOYC a program similar in form, function, and legacy of Louis Riel, Gabriel Dumont and all play a vital role in promoting Métis community, length to the Infinite Reach March Break WHEREAS it is vital that we give our youth the those who fought, as well as the contributions culture and values—including the Statement Camp (termed the Canoe Expedition tools they need in order to be successful; of all Métis people in Ontario, in both Queen’s of Prime Purpose—and support many of our Summer Camp from here on). This summer WHEREAS holistic wellness, including mental, Park in Toronto and Ottawa; and community members in their personal journeys camp will make use of the large stock of physical, spiritual and emotional health, is as Métis people. equipment the MNO currently has, allow central to our identity as Indigenous people; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the MNO THEREFORE BE RESOLVED THAT the Métis young Métis secondary school students to WHEREAS we are currently experiencing a continue to press the Provincial Government Nation of Ontario (MNO) hold a preliminary gain traditional knowledge and practical mental health crisis among Indigenous youth to correct, repurpose or remove the Northwest meeting, at the soonest possible date, with outdoor and leadership experience, and today; and Rebellion monument at Queen’s Park. representatives from the MNOVC, MNOWC prepare youth for longer and more intense WHEREAS the youth involved in programs and MNOYC to review annual budgets and Expeditions run on a triennial basis. such as Infinite Reach, Summer Youth RESOLVED determine a base funding for the MNOYC, Council Program (SYCP), as well as our youth (AGA17-11) MNOWC and the MNOVC, pending the representatives from our community and (151 in favour, 3 opposed) attainment of necessary funding and resources; RESOLVED BY CONSENSUS provincial councils are our greatest resource for and (AGA17-07) connecting to our youth. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the MNO Resolution No.: AGA17-12 seek to secure funding and resources for both Resolution No.: AGA17-08 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Title: Review MNO Youth-Focused the preliminary meeting as well as the budgets Title: Provisional Council of the Métis Provisional Council of the Métis Nation of Programming and work plans developed thereat. Nation of Ontario Minutes Ontario (PCMNO) be directed to seek funding Mover: Paul Robitaille Mover: Yvonne Jensen to train our Métis youth in mental health first Seconder: Katelyn LaCroix RESOLVED BY CONSENSUS Seconder: Kim Powley aid, and/or other mental health programs and (AGA17-06) two-spirited awareness such as Applied Suicide WHEREAS the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) WHEREAS Community Councils have Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) or SafeTalk, in currently develops and administers many pro- requested for some time to have access to order to end stigma and ensure the health and grams and initiatives that are specifically di- Resolution No.: AGA17-07 Provisional Council of the Métis Nation of safety of our growing youth population. rected toward Métis youth, including Infinite Title: Canoe Expedition Ontario (PCMNO) minutes; and Reach, Summer Youth Cultural Program, Canoe Mover: Alexander Young WHEREAS it is not feasible to expect everyone RESOLVED Expeditions, and Métis Family Wellbeing Seconder: Courtney Vaughan to be able to travel to Ottawa to view the (AGA17-10) Program; minutes. (149 in favour, 1 opposed; 1 abstention) WHEREAS these programs often represent the WHEREAS the 2017 Métis Nation of Ontario THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the initial avenue of exposure to the MNO for many (MNO) Canoe Expedition has officially come to PCMNO consider the manner in which the Métis youth and shape their perception of the a close at the MNO Annual General Assembly minutes are maintained, distributed and made Resolution No.: AGA17-11 MNO, the Métis Nation and their personal iden- in Kenora; available to Community Councils. Title: Louis Riel Day Ceremonies and tity as Métis people; WHEREAS the MNO Canoe Expedition has in Monument WHEREAS these programs must remain re- recent years become a semi-annual tradition for RESOLVED BY CONSENSUS Mover: Benny Michaud sponsive to the diverse and evolving needs of Métis citizens and communities across Ontario; (AGA17-08) Seconder: Iain Best youth, including their need to feel safe and sup- WHEREAS the Canoe Expedition serves ported their journeys toward discovering their as an incredible way to connect our Métis WHEREAS the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Métis identity, heritage and culture; and communities across Ontario, and educate both Resolution No.: AGA17-09 currently organizes and participates in Louis Riel WHEREAS the Métis Nation of Ontario Youth Métis and non-Métis individuals about the rich Title: Métis Nation of Ontario License Plates Day ceremonies at a memorial to soldiers of the Council (MNOYC) is the democratically elected traditions, culture, and historical significance of Mover: Mitchell Case Wolseley Expedition; representative of youth within Ontario. the Métis in Ontario and Canada; Seconder: Dalton Latondress WHEREAS soldiers of the Wolseley Expedition WHEREAS the Canoe Expedition additionally had the express intent of enforcing the removal THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the MNO provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for WHEREAS car owners in Ontario, through the of Métis from our traditional territories and seek out funding and resources to conduct a Métis youth to reconnect with their culture and Ministry of Transportation, have the ability to homesteads; review of the MNO’s youth focused programs history, and retrace the footsteps and paddle personalize their license plates; WHEREAS the removal of Métis from our and initiatives, including Infinite Reach, Summer strokes of their ancestors; WHEREAS there are currently over 60 graphics traditional territories has led to the fracturing of Youth Cultural Program, Canoe Expeditions, WHEREAS the alignment of the 2017 MNO available, including service clubs, sports teams, Métis families and communities; and Métis Family Wellbeing Program; Canoe Expedition with the celebration of charities and other Indigenous Governments; WHEREAS the result of this was that Métis Canada 150 and Ontario 150 allowed the MNO WHEREAS the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) people across the Homeland were labeled as BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the MNOYC to purchase a large amount of Expedition has always worked to promote Métis in Ontario; traitors and for generations felt the need to hide be meaningfully involved within the planning equipment, including but not limited to: two and their Métis culture and heritage; and implementation of that program review; voyageur canoes, a canoe trailer, a number of WHEREAS the license plate graphic program is WHEREAS our ancestors fought and died to tents, outdoor stoves and cooking appliances, seen by millions of Ontarians everyday and the preserve and maintain our distinct Métis culture, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the MNOYC sleeping bags, paddles, boat safety equipment program is open to create new graphics through traditions and way of life; play an ongoing role within the planning and and technology, dry bags and storage an application process. WHEREAS the Statement of Prime Purpose implementation of youth-focused programs; equipment, and a cargo trailer for storage; reads that, “we are inspired by the values and and WHEREAS this equipment can be better THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the traditions of our ancestors”; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the MNO utilized by the MNO each year, in order to 2017 Annual General Assembly mandate the WHEREAS by celebrating Louis Riel Day at Secretariat provides a status update on this res- provide the cultural experience facilitated by Provisional Council of the Métis Nation of a monument to the Canadian soldiers who olution to the MNOYC by December 31, 2017. the Canoe Expedition to a greater number of Ontario (PCMNO) and Senior Administration fought against the Métis, and which explicitly Métis youth; and to consider completing the application process ignores the struggle of our Métis ancestors, is RESOLVED BY CONSENSUS WHEREAS each recent Canoe Expedition run and create a “Métis Nation”, “Métis Nation of disrespectful of their legacy; and (AGA17-12) Métis Voyageur October 2017, Issue no. 97 B15

• AGA 2017 Resolutions •

Resolutions AGAth 2017 Resolutions of the 24 Annual General Assembly of the Métis Nation of Ontario held August 19 - 21, 2017, at the Lakeside Inn and Conference Centre, Kenora, Ontario.

Resolution No.: AGA17-13 used by similar Métis, First Nations, and creating a Métis controlled, educational and professional school students; Title: Social Media Policy Inuit government bodies; publishing institute, with goals including, but WHEREAS graduate, post-graduate and Mover: Alexander Young 3. Ensures this strategy builds off of the cur- not limited to; renewal and development professional studies are often inaccessible to Seconder: Mitchell Case rent social media platforms utilized by the of Métis culture through research; materials Métis students who already carry substantial MNO and it’s governing bodies; and development, and distribution; and the design, debt accrued during their undergraduate WHEREAS the Métis Nation of Ontario 4. Ensures this policy includes comprehensive development, and delivery of Métis-specific studies; Statement of Prime Purpose encourages guidelines for MNO Community Coun- educational programs and services in French, WHEREAS many career paths require graduate, the full participation of all Métis in the Métis cils in order to work towards consistent, English and Michif, potentially including post-graduate or professional designations; and Nation and aims to establish effective means of professional, and effective communication the development of a Métis post-secondary WHEREAS many Métis students seek to find communication for the Métis Nation; at all levels of the MNO. institute and professional development for ways to give back to the Nation through their WHEREAS the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) teachers; future careers. has been using both Facebook and Twitter RESOLVED BY CONSENSUS actively and effectively over the past year; (AGA17-13) BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the PCMNO THEREFORE LET IT BE RESOLVED THAT the WHEREAS the past six months has seen a and administration be mandated to seek Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) be directed to significant online Métis community formed in out funds to support the exploration of this investigate funding opportunities for graduate, Ontario through the creation of the MNOYC Resolution No.: AGA17-14 concept, and that a report on this work be post-graduate and professional students; Instagram account, the MNO Instagram Title: Establishment of a Métis Nation presented to the 2018 MNO AGA; and account, the #beadworkrevolution hashtag and Educational Institute in Ontario BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the MNO the MNO Canoe Expedition 2017; Mover: Mitchell Case FURTHER BE IT RESOLVED THAT when the be directed to engage with potential funding WHEREAS this online community and Seconder: Katelyn LaCroix educational and publishing institute is created, agencies to formally express the MNO’s need effective use of social media has been noticed it is named the “Powley Institute”. for graduate, post-graduate and professional nationwide, and emulated by other groups WHEREAS the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) funding opportunities; including the Métis Nation of Alberta on has, since its creation, always worked to RESOLVED BY CONSENSUS Instagram; and advocate for, and meet the educational needs (AGA17-14) BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT update WHEREAS the MNO continues to take of Métis people in Ontario; reports on this Resolution be provided to the positive steps in order to better engage and WHEREAS there is a lack of Ontario based, PCMNO Post-Secondary Representative on a communicate with Métis youth and Community Métis educational materials available to Ontario Resolution No.: AGA17-15 quarterly basis; and Councils. Schools; and Title: Provision of Financial Support to Métis WHEREAS the Manitoba Métis Federation, Graduate, Post-Graduate and Professional BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the MNO BE IT RESOLVED THAT the MNO: Métis Nation – Saskatchewan and Métis Nation Students provide an update on progress related to of Alberta already have educational institutions Mover: Katelyn LaCroix this Resolution to the 2018 Annual General 1. Works towards the creation and imple- of their own. Seconder: Paul Robitaille Assembly. mentation of a comprehensive social media strategy and policy within the next THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the RESOLVED BY CONSENSUS six months; 2017 MNO Annual General Assembly (AGA) WHEREAS the Aboriginal Skills and (AGA17-15) 2. Ensures this policy is informed by organi- mandates the Provisional Council of the Métis Employment Training Strategy (ASETS) has zational standards across Canada, includ- Nation of Ontario (PCMNO) and MNO Senior very narrow funding criteria that exclude ing the tactics and social media platforms Administration, to explore the possibility of many—if not all—graduate, post-graduate, and

The MNO AGA Resolutions Committee outlines proposed resolutions at the 2017 Annual General Assembly in Kenora. Métis Voyageur B16 October 2017, Issue no. 97

• AGA 2017 •

SponsorsAGA2017

PLATINUM SPONSOR

GOLD SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSORS

BRONZE SPONSORS Special Section • 2017 MÉTIS NATION OF ONTARIO CANOE EXPEDITION • Issue no. 97, October 2017

Paddling

Paddling on the in the Ottawa River Wake of Training at Paddlefoot Our Ancestors 17 Métis youth on a cross-province trip that reconnects them to their ancestors, their communities and the historic waterways that helped formed the Métis culture.

Will McLean in Thunder Bay Canoe cake in Penetanguishene On our way to North Bay Landing on the beach at North Bay Riley Smith at a community event in Mattawa Métis Voyageur C2 October 2017, Issue no. 97

2017 MNO Canoe Expedition

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“The Canadian Voyageur is a man with an adventurous spirit, ready and willing, capable of being occasionally, successively, or all at 2 once a discoverer, interpreter, lumberjack, colonist, hunter, fisher, sailor, and warrior. He strongly possesses all of these qualities, even though he does not always have the opportunity to practice them all.”

— Joseph-Charles Taché Forestiers et voyageurs (1863)

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Jacob at Fort William during training

1 ) Preparing for the “portage of death” near Mattawa. 2) Presenting MNO North Bay Métis Council with a paddle Campfire at Jackfish signed by all MNO Canoe Bay on Lake Superior Expedition members. 3) Sam Cuddy, Justin Moore and Tomas Lucas. 4) Sam Cuddy, Melissa St. Amant and Matthew Bombardier on the North Shore of Lake Superior. 5) Near North Bay. 6) At the Killarney community event. 7) Setting up camp on the shore of Lake Superior. Making some repairs to the sail 7 Métis Voyageur October 2017, Issue no. 97 C3

Sunset over Blackfly Island

Gerald L. Paddling in the Riley, Sam and Melissa Wa k e of Will, Christina, Jacob Our Ancestors BY GERALD LAVALEE Member of the ‘14 and ‘17 MNO Canoe Expeditions

On the morning of May 23, 2017 a group of modern Métis voyageurs departed from Britannia beach in Ottawa to start a 2200 kilometre journey across the province that would take them into the wilderness for three months. The mission? The adventure of a lifetime!

Guided by two settler guides in an act of reconcilia- The MNO Canoe Expedition followed the his- tion, these youth explored our homeland while discov- toric route to rendezvous, one of the most popu- ering the importance of water and hard work to our lar routes during the fur trade. From the Ottawa, traditional lifestyle. “The water is a very powerful thing the route took paddlers to the Mattawa River, for our people. It has such great strength and power to through the Lavase portage, then across Lake it,” crew member Matthew Bombardier said. During Nipissing to the French River, down the French the trip Matthew took responsibility of pray- and over Georgian Bay, up along the north shore ing for the water and its carriers. of Lake Huron, through the St. Mary’s River and During the course of the 86 day voyage, across Lake Superior North West towards Lake these Métis youth followed the historic trade of the Woods. The trek ended in Kenora. routes of their ancestors, making their way from Ottawa to Kenora by paddle and por- tage. Supported by a communications team and road crew that planned events, supplied “THE WATER IS A photos, video, created a blog and Instagram account that helped the Nation stay in touch VERY POWERFUL with the paddlers on their journey. On this amazing trip, the youth stopped at THING FOR OUR 18 Métis communities along their route to cel- PEOPLE. IT HAS ebrate and connect with people and to share Plotting our route the Métis way of life. Dressed in full historic SUCH GREAT clothing and armed with furs, trade items and a deep knowledge of Métis history they STRENGTH AND promoted and taught the Métis way of life, POWER TO IT” talked of Métis contributions to Canada, shared stories of the expedition and gave -- MATTHEW BOMBARDIER interviews to the media; helping to spread awareness of Métis culture. Community visits were a very rewarding part of the experience, one “They are retracing those historic fur trade that helped the paddlers keep their routes; they are spending the summer learning morale up. Crew member Andre Nault more and more about their history as Métis said every community they visited people, about their culture, language, and had “a different memory and story traditions,” said MNO President Marga- about the interactions we had; and ret Froh at an event in Toronto. “As they you carry those with you the whole move from community to community time. You keep getting more and across Ontario they are celebrating our Matthew more, until your finally getting existence as Métis, not just historical- them all together, at the AGA [Annual Gen- ly but who we are today as strong Will minds the fire eral Assembly]; you get them all together in one members of Ontario’s society.” spot. You get to relive those experiences and think of them again” continued from page 2 Métis Voyageur C4 October 2017, Issue no. 97

2017 MNO Canoe Expedition

1 ) Tomas Lucas strikes a particularly heroic pose on Jackfish Bay in Lake Superior. 2) Sunset on the Ottawa River near Mattawa. 3) Emily Ingram sharing some traditional Métis fiddle music. 4) Being introduced at the 1 community visit in Killarney.

continued from page 3

Facing the daily challenges and rewards 2 3 of voyageur life, these paddlers were forever “HAVING GROWN changed by the journey. For many, this life- style was new, challenging and a complete- UP IN TORONTO, ly novel experience filled with physical and A PLACE FAR mental challenges that pushed them past their former limits. Some of these challenges, REMOVED like portaging over traditional routes no lon- FROM THE ger suited to a 5 x 35 foot canoe and having to find ways around dams and highways are TRADITIONAL ones that come with paddling an expedition in modern times. MÉTIS WAY However, it’s often the mental challeng- OF LIFE, I es that are the hardest. Crew member Will Mclean remarked: “The biggest challenge has HAVE FOUND 4 been being away from home and people.” Yet IT DIFFICULT during the expedition the paddlers showed resilience just like the voyageurs of old. “It AT TIMES TO was pouring rain, it was super cold out, and CONNECT TO I remember we portaged 460 metres,” said crew member Sam Lavallee, “our spirits were MY CULTURE. so high...we were sitting in the pouring rain laughing our heads off.” -- WILL McLEAN The MNO Canoe Expedition was an expe- riential learning program where paddlers gained important skills like first aid, team Ducking the Kingfisher bridge on continued on page 5 the Ottawa R.

Taking a well-deserved break on the Ottawa River. Métis Voyageur October 2017, Issue no. 97 C5

2017 MNO Canoe Expedition

A demonstration of traditional Métis jigging at the Mattawa community event.

continued from page 4

building and safe food preparation. This year college credits, as well as outdoor certifica- tions were introduced as part of the program “WE WERE so that even more knowledge was gained in WALKING THE the process. SAME PATH, Paddler Courtney Vaughan said: “We’re learning navigation skills, were learning out- DOING THE Camping at “Blackfly Island” door wilderness skills, group functioning, EXACT SAME near North Bay. group mediation.” Nault, who is currently taking Microbiology, said that the training PORTAGES ... was useful to everyone because of the trans- WE’RE RISING ferable skills it taught. “I feel it’s more valu- WITH THE SUN, able to live it, to actually experience it… because, you can read anything - it’s not GOING TO BED Our Great Ground Crew !! hands on. Anyone can read anything, but liv- EARLIER, SEEING ing it you have a true feel for it, you have ANIMALS ALONG that direct connection ... You learn and you get those experiences whereas you don’t get THE WATERWAYS that when you read a book, you’re like oh - JUST AS OUR ok they paddled a lot.” The expedition, however, was not just ANCESTORS about paddling; it was also about reconnect- WOULD HAVE ing with the Métis people. It was an explora- ... WE’RE tion of ancestry and heritage—a way to see and comprehend the past from a historic LEARNING HOW waterway and through experiencing first- OUR ANCESTORS hand the hardship and heroism of those that came before; creating youth leaders for the LIVED AND HOW Métis Nation. OUR NATION Mclean spoke to this saying: “Having WAS BUILT.” grown up in Toronto, a place far removed from the traditional Métis way of life, I have -- COURTNEY VAUGHN found it difficult at times to connect to my culture. A significant motivator for me in   Presenting an autographed paddle to the MNO Ottawa Region Métis Council. joining this expedition was to get in touch with a part of myself that I’ve always recog- nized, but never really explored.” McLean  1) Presenting an autographed paddle to the MNO Superior North Métis Council also acknowledged how powerful the at the Terrace Bay community event. 2) MNO Senator Ken Simard presents Emily Ingram with a sash during training at Fort William. 3) Presenting an autographed continued on page 7 paddle to the MNO Historic Sault Ste. Marie Métis Council.

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2017 MNO Canoe Expedition

Alex & Melissa, the communications team

Paddling in the rain Blackfly attack!!! Andre + Matthew

Gerald teaching youth

On the dock in Thessalon

At Fort William

Near North Bay Métis Voyageur October 2017, Issue no. 97 C7

2017 MNO Canoe Expedition

continued from page 5

wilderness can be in giving a sense of understand- eight people, we were thinking oh no ... then all ing. “Just to step into the shoes, so accurately of the of a sudden this huge flood of people came ... we day-to-day of your ancestors, it’s a cool thing, We got this huge swell of excitement and this phenom- “AS THEY MOVE FROM can all take a lot of perspective from that and learn a enal feeling of support and pride ... not only in our- lot from paddling for three months. It sparks a lot of selves for completing the trip but in our nation, in COMMUNITY TO thought about who you are as a Métis person in the our people. For whom we are and how we came to COMMUNITY ACROSS world today.” be. It was a really amazing feeling.” Vaughn also said each member of the group is The arrival of the paddlers to the AGA was a ONTARIO THEY on the trip to connect with heritage or identity. “In great event with laughter, hugs and tears. It also doing this, were not only connecting with the com- marked the end of the most eventful summer of ARE CELEBRATING munities along the way ... but were walking the their lives. Expedition Communications Assistant same path, were doing the exact same portages ... Melissa St. Amant remarked: “It’s a bitter sweet OUR EXISTENCE AS We’re rising with the sun, were going to bed earli- ending, it’s heartwarming to see everybody but it’s MÉTIS, NOT JUST er, we’re seeing animals along the waterways just as also really sad because we’re a family now and now our ancestors would have ... we’re learning how our that it over we won’t be with each other every day.” HISTORICALLY ancestors lived and how our Nation was built.” “I can’t believe it’s over,” said crew member Justin The Paddlers arrived in Kenora from their long Moore, “I’m happy it’s over, but then I’m extremely BUT WHO WE and arduous journey on the evening of August 18. sad because I have to leave all these people and go ARE TODAY They paddled into a large celebration in Anicinabe back to my regular life.” Park and as they neared the shore you could hear the All of the youth were invited on stage to share AS STRONG excitement building in the crowd as people cheered their most memorable moments, which ranged and yipped louder and louder, running down to the from finding four different bush saunas, discover- MEMBERS OF water to catch a glimpse of the voyageurs and the ing light houses, dealing with blackflies, paddling ONTARIO’S large Montréal canoe. “It was a thrill,” Vaughn said, with Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne and the “as we paddled around the corner we only saw about beautiful sunsets of Lake Superior. SOCIETY”

continued on page 12

Coming ashore in Killarney Gerald teaching youth Métis Voyageur C8 October 2017, Issue no. 97

2017 MNO Canoe Expedition

 Members of the MNO Canoe Expedition with members of the MNO WEKMC at  Members of the MNO GRMC being presented with the autographed paddle from the Métis Footprints exhibit in the Chimzuk Museum in Windsor. the MNO Canoe Expedition. MNO Canoe Expedition MNO Canoe Expedition visits Windsor comes to Guelph submitted by submitted by Donna Grayer, MNO Windsor-Essex-Kent Métis Council Jennifer Parkinson, MNO Grand River Métis Council

n June 23, the Métis Nation of perfect addition to Métis Footprints, which he Métis Nation of Ontario Longfield, who wished participants a great Ontario (MNO) Windsor-Essex- will be featured at the Museum until Janu- (MNO) Grand River Métis Coun- celebration and congratulations to the Kent Métis Council (WEKMC) ary 2018. cil (GRMC) was honoured and Métis paddlers. Owelcomed the 2017 Canoe Expedition The Council held a dinner for the pad- Texcited to host the 2017 MNO Youth When the canoe arrived there was a to Windsor. The Expedition set up their dlers at the local Legion Hall. Council Canoe Expedition in Guelph on June 22. lot of cheering from those on the shore. camp at Vision Park on Riverside Drive members and MNO staff gifted the pad- Although the day began cloudy and wet The young canoeists shared stories and where they provided demonstrations on dlers such essential items as candy, mints it did not dampen the enthusiasm for the answered questions. They presented the Métis culture and heritage. and bug repellent. MNO veterans Shelley Canoe Expedition’s arrival. MNO GRMC with a beautiful paddle, The MNO Canoe Expedition presented Claus and Sharlene Lance put together an The Canoe Expedition was to be met which had been signed by every member the Council a paddle that had been carved entertainment bag for the paddlers that at the Guelph Boating Club on Guelph of the Expedition. In return, the MNO by one of the paddlers and autographed by included cards, puzzles and books for Lake, a manmade lake that feeds into the GRMC presented the youth with fiddle key the entire crew. those rainy days on shore. Grand River. It is fully stocked with fish chains and Métis Infinity earrings. Guelph Later, when the MNO Canoe Expedi- There were many good conversations and many enjoy boating, canoeing, fishing Boat Club Commodore, Mark Parkinson, tion visited the Chimczuk Museum, the at dinner as everyone got to know one and swimming in its waters. helped President Jennifer Parkinson raise paddle gift was added to the Métis Foot- another. The MNO WEKMC is very proud The MNO GRMC transformed the both the Métis blue and red flags. It was prints, a display at the Museum that the of these young peoples’ accomplishments Boating Club’s crew quarters into a trading exciting to see. The MNO GRMC present- MNO WEKMC had helped develop. Métis on their journey. ∞ post, lovingly named “Lake in the Woods.” ed Commodore Parkinson with a Métis Footprints was featured in the last issue Furs, hides and traps were sash as a token of appreciation for the of the Métis Voyageur and includes local hung. Blankets were laid out Boating Club opening up their property for Métis artifacts and a larger Métis history and the Métis flag was hung the MNO GRMC event. timeline. The gifted paddle was the in the window. An assort- Grassroots Catering provided an awe- ment of sashes, hats and furs some meal of bison burgers, salad, fresh adorned a table. An area was fruit and strawberry juice. Thank you Mal- set up for crafts and snacks. com and Christine! MNO staff set up an infor- The youth paddlers fiddled and taught mation table near the door to some jigging. The day went way too fast welcome guests and give out and before long the MNO Canoe Expedi- gifts. Outside the post, Fire tion had to move on to their next stop. Keepers George and Ron Par- The MNO GRMC wishes to extend kinson started a fire in prepara- a special “Marsii” to the Guelph Boating North Bay community event tion for the arrival of the young Club for the use of their facility; and to the voyageurs. MNO Youth Canoe Expedition for com- MNO GRMC citizens and ing to Guelph and sharing their adventure. community members were joined “Marsii” also goes out to all Council and by reporters from Guelph, Kitchener and community members whose hard work Timmins community event CTV as well as Guelph Mayor Cameron and dedication make events like this one In the Guthrie and Member of Parliament Lloyd so successful. ∞

 The MNO Canoe Expedition members enjoy a beautiful sunset on Lake Superior. Métis Voyageur October 2017, Issue no. 97 C9

2017 MNO Canoe Expedition

Pr esenting the MNO Toronto York Region Métis Council with an autographed paddle at the Toronto community event.

 The 2017 MNO Canoe Expedition crew presenting a paddle to Timmins MNO Youth Representative Brianne Gosselin: (left-right) Tomas Lucas , Jesse Yacoubov, Zack Kruzins, Andre Nault , Matthew Bombardier , Justin Moore, Jacob Crawford , Brett Bodnarchuck , Will McLean , Zac Norman (Timmins SYCP), Gerald Lavallee , Christina Smith , Samantha Lavallee , Sam Cuddy , Riley Smith , Courtney Vaughan and Katie Gervais (Timmins SYCP) Warm welcome for MNO Canoe Expedition in

Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation David Zimmer with the assistance Timmins of MNO President Margaret Froh takes down submitted by Will McLean in a traditional Métis game Zac Norman & Katie Gervais, MNO Summer Youth Cultural Program staff that was a part of the Toronto Tomas Lucas skips a stone right across community event. Lake Ontario (maybe not the whole way). NO citizens, local MNO staff, used to dancing to music recorded on community and council mem- CD. Local youth especially enjoyed bers were on hand to wel- learning dot art, finger-weaving, tug of Mcome the 2017 Métis Nation of Ontario war, traditional games and the historical (MNO) Canoe Expedition as it arrived in interpretation. Timmins on June 6, 2017. The Canoe Expedition crew was The MNO Canoe Expedition brought invited to dinner at the MNO office historical artifacts, games and tradition- where they enjoyed a home-cooked meal al music and along with local Summer prepared by Jaylin Renaud and Jen Frap- Youth Cultural Program (SYCP) staff pier from the Timmins MNO office. The performed traditional dances includ- Canoe Expedition crew were thankful ing the seven step, the red river jig for the hospitality and happy to have and the heel-toe. Live fiddle music a chance to relax after a long day. The was played by Emily Ingram from MNO staff were excited to listen to the Navigating the locks in Sault the ground support crew. The paddlers’ stories and experiences of their Taking a break on the tempo of Emily’s fiddling was a chal- journey thus far. ∞ Ste Marie shores of Lake Superior lenge for the local SYCP since they were Métis Voyageur C10 October 2017, Issue no. 97

2017 MNO Canoe Expedition

 The MNO Canoe Expedition at Fort William during training with Region 2 Provincial Council of the Métis Nation of Ontario Councilor Cam Burgess and members of the MNO Thunder Bay and Greenstone Métis Councils.

 Presenting an autographed paddle to the MNO North Shore Métis Council at the community event in Blind River.

Tattoo in the Sault High fives in North Bay!

Pr esenting an autographed paddle to the MNO Mattawa Métis Council at a community event in Mattawa.

(Left to right) MNO Region 1 Youth Representative Kelly Duquette, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Dr. Carolyn Bennett, MNO President Margaret Froh and Métis Nation of Alberta (MNA) President Audrey Poitras with the Canoe Expedition on National Indigenous Day in Ottawa. Métis Voyageur October 2017, Issue no. 97 C11

2017 MNO Canoe Expedition

1 2  Members of the 2017 MNO Canoe Expedition with Premier Wynne and other dignitaries. Premier Wynne is second on the left in the back row; on her right is her spouse Jane Rounthwaite, to her right MNO Chair and Acting President France Picotte; beside her Katelyn Stenlund with the MNO Kenora Métis Council; beside her Theresa Stenlund, PCMNO Region 1 Councilor and beside her Brady Hupet, Secretary-Treasurer of the MNO Sunset Country Métis Council. Premier Wynne spends four days

with MNO Canoe 3 Expedition

tarting on August 9, 2017, The opportunity to spend time with them and MNO Canoe Expedition had learn more about Métis culture, heritage some extra crew members as they and the role that Métis have played and were joined for four days by Pre- continue to play in Ontario and Canada’s 5 mier Kathleen Wynne and a num- history,” she added. Sber of other dignitaries. Among those who “In a summer of amazing experiences, also joined the Canoe Expedition for the paddling with the Premier will definite- Fort Frances leg of their 2200 kilometre ly be one of the most memorable,” stated trek were MNO Chair and Acting President MNO Acting President France France Picotte, Region 1 Provisional Coun- Picotte, “this was an cil of the MNO Councilor Theresa Stenlund, awesome experience for MNO Sunset Country Métis Secretary-Trea- our Métis youth to spend surer Brady Hupet, Katelyn Stenlund with so much time with the 4 6 the MNO Kenora Métis Council and Jane Premier. It highlights the Rounthwaite, Premier Wynne’s spouse. positive relationship we “Jane and I are excited to paddle with have been able to build 1) MNO Canoe Expedition guide Zack Kruzins provides youth from the MNO on the Fort Frances between the Ontario and some high seas entertainment. 2) Jacob Crawford with leg,” the Premier said in a statement Mon- MNO in the last number of a future voyageur in North Bay. 3) The MNO Canoe day August 7. “I am honoured to have this years.” ∞ Expedition joins in Canada Day celebrations in Sault Ste. Marie. 4) Tomas Lucas and Claire McDowell demonstrate a traditional jig in Killarney. 5) The ground crew with a friend from the MNO Summer Youth Cultural Program 6) Campfire near Timmins. Matt and the Premier Métis Voyageur C12 October 2017, Issue no. 97

2017 MNO Canoe Expedition

 Members of the MNO Canoe Expedition with MNO Acting President Picotte as well as Ministers Bennett and Zimmer and MP Nault at the beginning of the MNO Annual General Assembly In Kenora. (Left to right on the ground) Dr. Carolyn Bennett, federal Minister of Indigenous Affairs, Noles Dennhart, Robert Nault, Member of Parliament for Kenora, Chris McLeod, Samantha Cuddy, Alex Young, Matthew Bombardier, MNO Acting President France Picotte, David Zimmer, provincial Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, Samantha Lavallee, Melissa St. Amant, Justin Moore, Will McLean, Andre Nault. (Left to right, in the tree) Riley Smith, Jesse Yacoubov, Zack Kruzins, Tomas Lucas, Mike Richardson and Courtney Vaughan.

Alex Young hugs Scott Carpenter.

The MNO Canoe Expedition docks its canoe for the last time at Anicinabe Park near Kenora.

Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations Carolyn Bennett congratulates the MNO Canoe Expedition members after they land at Anicinabe Park near Kenora. continued from page 7 We made it!!! “Porphyry Island has this beautiful light house that they’ve managed to maintain,” Vaughn said while on stage, “So we stopped there and climbed to the top of the lighthouse, which was the biggest one we’ve been to. We were watch- ing the sunset going over the sleeping giant ... I’ve been a lot of places and seen a lot of really nice sunsets, but in that moment Superior was still ... which doesn’t often happen. I was just able to take a moment of silence and gratitude ... I felt the water really giving me that peace of mind.” During the arrival the team was also wel- comed and congratulated by David Zimmer, Min- ister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation and Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Dr. Carolyn Bennett. Throughout the rest of the AGA, the Canoe Expedition members took part in cultural activi- ties while sharing their experiences on the open water with MNO citizens and friends. Even  Crowds of well-wishers greet the though the three-month journey has come to a MNO Canoe Expedition members close, they will never forget the life lessons, lov- after they land at Anicinabe Park ing friendships, memories and multiple skills they near Kenora. gained that will last a lifetime. ∞