Volume 19 Issue 4 Published monthly by the Union of Indians - Anishinabek Nation Single Copy: $2.00 May 2007 in the news June 29: National day of action TORONTO (CP) – First Nation The Assembly of Natives seriously. Indian Affairs National Chief Phil Fontaine called leaders are still making plans for a passed a resolution in December Minister reacted to that a direct threat and Terrance Ipperwash report May 31 one-day disruption of highway and calling for a day of action Friday, the resolution by threatening to cut Nelson, chairman of a group that TORONTO (CP) – The inquiry railway traffi c across the country June 29 to protest against what funding to First Nations groups if represents nine First probing the police shooting despite federal government threats the group sees as a refusal by the the day of action goes ahead. Nations said the Tories need to take death of First Nation protester to cut funding for Native groups. Conservative government to take First Nations Assembly Natives seriously, and threatened Dudley George will release its widespread economic disruption fi nal report on May 31. and a potential blockade of CN A key issue at the inquiry rail lines connecting Eastern and is what role, if any, alleged Western . political interference from then- In addition to the threats from Ontario premier Mike Harris played in the police response to Prentice, Native leaders are angered the occupation. by the fact Finance Minister Jim Flaherty ignored demands to make Status cards costly First Nations poverty a priority in (CP) – The Indian his recent budget. Affairs Department will spend In a May 15 speech to the $30 million over fi ve years to come up with a new high-tech Canadian Club of Ottawa, Fontaine form of aboriginal identifi cation warned a blue-chip audience to replace easily forged paper that the anger felt in many First cards that could be costing Nations communities has reached the federal government that a breaking point. much annually in fraudulently- “Frankly, we are fearful of obtained tax exemptions. the effect this is having on the Claims spending cut well-being and public safety in OTTAWA (CP) – The federal our communities.” He suggested government’s Plans and his tactic of favouring diplomacy Priorities report says the core over barricades has garnered few amount budgeted to resolve results. land claims will be steadily cut “So here I am again today, over the next three years. Indian hammering away at another group. Affairs Minister Jim Prentice Many of our communities have says those fi gures should be reached the breaking point. The ignored, however, since he’ll Bay of Quinte Mohawks blocked railway traffi c April 20 on CN’s main line near Deseronto in eastern Ontario. move this spring to overhaul a anger and frustration are palpable.” discredited system “as soon as is While he has a track record of practical.’’ favouring quiet diplomacy over Premier, Chief agree Railway sues Mohawk protesters barricades, he suggested to his TORONTO (CP) -- Canadian National Railway has CN is seeking unspecifi ed damages following audience that this tactic has yielded TORONTO – Ontario Regional few results. Chief Angus Toulouse and launched a lawsuit against aboriginal protesters and blockades on CN’s main line in Deseronto on April Premier Dalton McGuinty an aboriginal group after two illegal blockades on 20 and for a similar blockade last year in nearby “Consider where that attitude are calling on the federal the company’s rail lines in eastern Ontario snarled Marysville. Hallman says CN is also seeking a has gotten us – obviously not very government to establish an freight and passenger rail traffi c on a vital corridor. continuation of an injunction granted April 20 to bar far,” he said. independent body to settle the CN Rail spokesman Mark Hallman says three further blockades on the line. He says CN transports Fontaine also urged hundreds of outstanding land members of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte First freight valued at $100 million daily on its main line governments to work harder to claims across the country. Nation, including protest organizer Shawn Brant, as between Toronto and . settle more than 1,100 outstanding Toulouse cited the well as the Mohawk group itself, are named in the The protests by members of the First Nation land claims, noting that at the November 2006 report by the current pace of negotiations, it Senate Standing Committee suit fi led May 3 with the Ontario Superior Court of are part of an ongoing land claims dispute in the Justice. region. would take 130 years to resolve on Aboriginal Peoples Special them. Study on the Federal Specifi c Claims Process, entitled “Negotiation or Confrontation: It’s Canada’s Choice” which identifi ed over 800 unresolved Creating a better economic blueprint Specifi c Claims, and called the current process “long, By Rick Garrick from a resolution passed at the into successful business models and economic specialists at this complicated, and ...ineffective.” NIPISSING FN – Ray Union of Ontario Indians’ 2006 in communities across Canada, June’s Grand Council Assembly Martin, Greg Plain and Dawn Unity Gathering at Sand Point such as the Osoyoos band in B.C., in Alderville, to be followed by Madahbee all have visions of a First Nation, which was based the creation of an economic think another review by all four regions better economic future for the on Grand Council Chief John tank made up of economic experts of the Anishinabek Nation. Anishinabek Nation. Beaucage’s May 2006 Political from across the Anishinabek “We’re in the midst of fi guring “You have to believe,” Manifesto. It calls for the creation Nation and corporate Canada, out how we will roll it out,” says Martin says as he discusses the of a sustainable economic the development of a draft Plain, executive director of the Anishinabek Nation economic environment over the next 10 strategy for review by the chiefs Anishinabek Nation Management FREE development initiative that he and to 20 years that will enable the Group, Inc., adding that a Madahbee, as co-chairs, and Plain Anishinabek Nation to develop consultant has been hired to help have been working on since last self-sustaining First Nation- develop the initiative. “We want INSIDE summer. “I certainly have a vision owned businesses and high to fi nd something different that For that I would like to see happening employment levels within their hasn’t been done before. We can in the Anishinabek Nation.” communities. do business anywhere, we don’t Martin’s vision calls for the “I think it’s important to develop have to be tied to the reserve.” Subscribers! creation of 20,000 to 30,000 a blueprint that the community Madahbee sees the initiative jobs for people all across the can use,” Madahbee says, noting as an opportunity to develop Anishinabek Nation. that each community has different Ray Martin co-chairs Anishinabek a blueprint for economic The initiative was developed strengths. Plans call for research economic development initiative. development. Page 2 Anishinabek News May 2007 Anishinabek

MBA new CAO for UOI Biidahban Healing Ahnee. Financial Management Board. Bemjiwang n’dizhinkaaz, Migize n’dodemun, I enjoy the outdoors through walking, biking, Dokis n’doonjibaa. kayaking, fi shing, snow-shoeing, and cross- country I was pleased to be appointed Chief Administrative skiing, and participate in several pow-wows each Centre Offi cer of the Union of Ontario Indians earlier this year as a traditional dancer and occasionally as a year. My fi rst role with the co-MC. organization began in June The fi rst three months in my new role have 4 x 4.5 2006 when I served as been busy. Our business plans and budgets for Interim Health Director. the 2007/2008 fi scal year have been prepared Prior to working with the and submitted, and my orientation has included Union of Ontario Indians I participation in many board and committee was Executive Director of the meetings. North Bay Indian Friendship My main objective is to provide the organizational Centre, and am currently a support and resources to allow Union of Ontario volunteer member of their Indians’ programs and staff to move forward board of directors, as well Gary Dokis and achieve their objectives. We have recently as the centre’s treasurer. implemented a business planning model to guide us Previously I worked in a variety of management in our diverse activities. positions with the Ontario Northland Transportation This is an exciting time to be part of the Union Commission, and have completed a Masters Degree of Ontario Indians. We are working in many areas in Business Administration. on behalf of the 42 member communities of the My wife Mona-Lisa and I live in North Bay, but Anishinabek Nation. I look forward to working retain a residence in where we with the leadership and staff of the Union of Ontario spend most of our leisure time, and where I also Indians while we move forward and achieve the volunteer my services to the Dokis First Nation objectives of the Noondaagaazwin. Communicator selling cookies Hello to everyone! Aundek Omni My name is Marci Becking and I’m the new Communications Offi cer for the Union of Ontario Indians. I’m very excited to share my experience and knowledge to contribute to the communications Kaning Pow-Wow unit’s four primary activity areas – media relations, public education, the Anishinabek News and related communications vehicles, and communications 4 x 4.5 support and training. I acquired formal journalism and marketing training from Bismarck State College in Bismarck, North Dakota and also from St. Lawrence College in Kingston, Ontario. Volunteering is something near and dear to me. I currently lead a Ranger unit with Girl Guides in North Bay and I’m also the Public Relations advisor Christian and Marci for the Algonquin Division. (Please send me your cookie orders!) Nation citizens. I can be reached by telephone I’m happy to be living in beautiful North in the North Bay offi ce at 705-497-9127 (Ext. Bay with my fi ancé Christian Hebert and our 14- 2290), toll-free at 1-877-702-5200, or by e-mail at month-old son, Alexander who are both Dokis First [email protected] Yvette Nolan honoured TORONTO – Yvette Nolan is this year’s recipient of Theatre Ontario’s Maggie Bassett Award. Born in of Algonquin and Irish Dot Kennedy Job Connect ancestry, Nolan has heightened the profi le of Native Earth Performing Sales ad Make-up ad (typo) Arts as Canada’s oldest Aboriginal theatre company. Yvette 4 x 4.5 4 x 4.5 As a playwright, Nolan dramaturg, and director, she was a the Aboriginal Writer in Residence at Brandon University, the Festival Dramaturg for Saskatchewan Playwrights Centre Spring Festival of New Plays and was the president of the Playwrights Union of Canada from 1998- 2001. She has directed such awe-inspiring productions as Tales of An Urban Indian, The Triple Truth, The Unnatural and Accidental Women, and her own play, Annie Mae’s Movement. May 2007 Anishinabek News Page 3 Anishinabek Federal study validates new Anishinabek law NIPISSING FN – The principles A national consultation process, proposed a template to help our possession of homes on reserve. meetings held across Anishinabek of the fi rst modern Anishinabek launched last year by Indian Affairs communities to create their own The draft Anishinabek Nation Nation territory over a 40-day Nation law are validated by key Minister James Prentice, released local regulations designed by and law – designed to govern and period this spring. Final ratifi cation recommendations of a newly- its 500-page report in April, for their citizens.” protect the interests of spouses and of the law is expected to take place released federal report on including recommendations that The Grand Council Chief said families in the event of a marriage at the Anishinabek Nation Grand Matrimonial Real property. First Nations develop their own his offi ce was still analyzing other dissolution – was endorsed Council Assembly at Alderville “It took an exhaustive and laws and enforcement processes aspects of the federal report, tabled March 23 by representatives of First Nation in June. Under the expensive federal study to prove dealing with Matrimonial Real by ministerial representative the 42 Anishinabek member First terms of the proposed law, member what we have known all along,” Property issues. Wendy Grant-John, that deal with Nations at a special assembly in First Nations will have one year said Grand Council Chief John “This is exactly in line with proposed establishment of interim Sault Ste. Marie. The draft law to pass community regulations, Beaucage. “Our people know best the Anishinabek Nation position,” federal rules that would allow the was developed after an intense based on the framework provided how to govern ourselves.” Beaucage said. “We have courts to make orders regarding schedule of nine consultation in the nation’s law. Café nourishes body and soul By Denise Desormeaux CHIPPEWAS OF THE THAMES – Surrounded by Nancy Deleary’s historically-inspired acrylic paintings, dinner at Wiisnin Café nourishes the mind and spirit, as well as the body. Located on Jubilee Road on the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, Wiisnin (“Let’s Eat”) Café offers delectable home cooking in a softly lit and relaxing atmosphere. Healthful, homemade soups, chili, sandwiches, salads, fresh fruit, daily specials and much loved Mexican Fridays (burritos, enchiladas, beans, rice) await Nancy Deleary with one of her larger Inaugural meeting of the Northern Superior Tribal Countil: from left:Leona Clarke, Ray famished guests. canvases on display at Wiisnin Café. Nobis, Natalie Paavola-Wabigwan, Chief Yvette Metansinine, Joe Donio, Northern While majoring in a four-year program Superior Regional Chief Wilfred King, Chief Pierre Pelletier, Chief Paul Gladu, Chief at the Institute of American Indian Art will showcase pieces from Aboriginal artists Helen Frank, Audrey Gilbeau, Rita King, Mike Murchison, Theresa Nelson, Mike Esquega in Santa Fe, New Mexico, Deleary was interested in displaying and promoting their and Frank Hardy Jr. inspired by the artistic fl air she saw in work, to sustain themselves and rejuvenate local cafes. the voice and beauty of the Anishinabek “I’m a very visual person,” she says, through art. Superior tribal council formed “and it has always been my dream to go out Nancy’s uncle on her mother’s side was FORT WILLIAM FN – First Nations from economic development initiatives such as and learn about art – especially fi ne art – world-renowned Anishinaabe artist Arthur within the Robinson Superior Treaty Area hydropower development and other regional along with the history of our peoples. I’ve Shilling from Mnjikaning. She recalls – Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek, economic development initiatives. chosen to deal with contemporary issues of visiting him in Rama . Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishinaabek, Chief Wilfred King, of Kiashke our people – such as identity and racism “When I would see Uncle Art’s Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek, Fort Zaaging Anishinaabek (Gull Bay First – through my art by choosing subjects from paintings, and smell the oils throughout William First Nation, Kiashke Zaaging Nation) said, “I am very pleased to see history.” the house, it really inspired me. Now that Anishinaabek, Namaygoosisigagun First the formation of both the Nokiiwin Tribal An adjoining room to Wiisnin Café I’ve got all this experience, I want to share Nation, and Red Rock First Nation – have Council and Chi-Neebeh Economic is being transformed into an art gallery, what I’ve learned, to wake that gift up in established the Nokiiwin (Working) Tribal Development Corporation. Our collective scheduled to open this summer. The gallery our people.” Council and Chi-Neebeh (Big Water) work in developing these organizations will Economic Development Corporation. result in the advancement of our collective The will provide initiatives as well as supporting individual fi ve core advisory services to member First community aspirations. We need to work Nations including community planning, collaboratively in advancing First Nations economic development, governance, issues on behalf of our membership. fi nance and technical services. The Tribal Council and Economic Chi-Neebeh (big water) Economic Development Corporation will ensure Development Corporation will be effective communication, collaboration instrumental in moving forward regional and coordination of regional activities.”

Julie Pellerin owns Play Coffee House. Coffee house site follows tradition VERNER –Play Coffee House celebrates its fi rst anniversary June 9, but the location at 38 Principale Street East has been home to commercial enterprises for the better part of a century. Principale38 is currently owned by Julie Pellerin of nearby , and houses two rental units as well as Play Coffee House. The combination snack bar, Wiky wins recreation award arcade, and confectionary store provides patrons the opportunity to play pool, book DVD Jim Watson, Ontario Minister of health promotion, presents Rose Shawande, Wikwemikong’s movie rentals, or take a break in the 22-seat coffee shop. Customers can pick up their recreation and leisure facilitator, with a 2006 Play Works Youth Friendly Recognition Award. coffee or movie rentals at a drive-through window. Looking on, from left, are: Jillian Peltier (Guidance/Teacher of Wasse Abin High School), Gail Since 1906, the site has been home to a restaurant, convenience store, and bait and Shawande (Wellness Program Manager), Amanda Wassegijig (student), and Mary Jo Wabano tackle shop before being destroyed by fi re in 1998. The land remained vacant until August (Waasa Naabin Community Youth Services Centre Program Manager). . Wikwemikong was 2005. This was the fi rst commercial building to be constructed in Verner in over 15 years. one of 14 communities presented with this prestigious award, demonstrating commitment The building is called Principale38 and was completed in June of 2006. towards youth programming that is accessible, safe and effective within the community. Page 4 Anishinabek News May 2007 Maanda ndinendam Opinion The Anishinabek News is a monthly publication of the Union of Ontario Indians (UOI). Views expressed are not necessarily the opinion or political position of the UOI. No portion of this paper, including advertisements, artwork, photos and edi- torial content may be reproduced without written permission of the Anishinabek News Editor or UOI Executive. historic attempts to “convert” indigenous peoples to Readers are invited to submit letters, articles, and photos for publication. a variety of religious creeds, one would think these Please include your name, address and telephone number on all material sub- Pope seems mitted. All submissions will be reviewed for publication based on priority of inter- street-corner missionaries would be ashamed to show est and edited for clarity of thought, taste, brevity and legal implications. Remu- their faces. neration will be paid for submissions only if a written agreement with the Editor is made prior to publication. to have missed Starting about 500 years ago, boatloads of Editor: Maurice Switzer Europeans began making their way across the Atlantic, in search of New World wealth, land, and Contributors: Marci Becking, Holly Brodhagen, Pamela Brown, history classes savage souls to convert to the true Christ. The friars Chief Dan Couchie, Denise Desormeaux, Rhonda Gagnon, Rick Garrick, Shirley Honyust, and priests on board the ships of Columbus, Cartier, Richard Wagamese and Shirley Williams I hate salesmen. Champlain and Pizarro were the forerunners of the young Mormons and Jehovah’s Witnesses who knock Editorial Board: Fred Bellefeuille, Les Couchie, Cathie Favreau Well, that might be a tad strong – let me re-phrase on our doors today. Production: Deb Sullivan that. Except they were even more forceful in their sales Co-ordinator: Priscilla Goulais The world would be a better place without them. pitches. Telephone: (705) 497-9127 Toll Free: 1-877-702-5200 Fax: (705) 497-9135 e-mail: [email protected] The notion that we require other people to tell For Incans and Mayans, Algonquins and Huron, not us what we need has always struck me as strange. I signing up could result in a variety of consequences, Anishinabek News P.O. Box 711, Nipissing First Nation, North Bay, ON P1B 8J8 know if I need groceries, or gas for my car, or a new including starvation, torture and death. The skeletons pair of trousers. about Christianity’s role in the notorious network of Indian Residential Schools are still spilling out of the The job of salesmen closet. – and the many of the advertising messages So when Pope Benedict XVI used his visit to that seem to invade Brazil this month as an opportunity to criticize the our lives these days, apparent revival of Native spirituality in some Latin including the wall American countries, history was not on his side. Publishing Criteria space above urinals in GOAL men’s restrooms – is “The utopia of going back to breathe life into the To publish a quality newspaper and related publications de- to convince us that we pre-Columbus religions, separating them from Christ signed to foster pride and share knowledge about Anishinabek need things, even if and from the universal church, would not be a step current affairs, culture, goals, and accomplishments. we merely want them. forward,” said the Pope. “Indeed, it would be a step When I worked in the back. In reality, it would be a retreat toward a stage in OBJECTIVES newspaper business, Maurice Switzer history anchored in the past.” To provide information that refl ects the Creator’s four original our advertising sales gifts to the Anishinabek: trainees were told that was the main job of advertising The Pope even tried to make a case that indigenous Respect: To welcome diversity and encourage a free ex- – to turn people’s wants into needs. peoples really wanted to become Christians before the change of opinions that may differ without being disagreeable. arrival of the Europeans. Fair and humourous comments are welcomed, but not ridicule I used to abruptly hang up on call centres and or personal attacks. breeze past store clerks asking if they could help me “Christ is the Saviour for whom they were silently – ie – sell me something. But now I try to be more longing,” he told a regional conference of bishops. Honesty: Debwewin – speaking the truth – is the cornerstone polite, even to telemarketers who try to coax me into of our newspaper’s content. purchasing more services from a phone company that A spokesman for the country’s Indian Missionary can’t get my current bill straight, or a drive-thru server Council said the Pope’s remarks seem to ignore the fact Sharing: Providing opportunities for people from the four who thinks giant fries and a barrel of Coke would be that Indians were enslaved and killed by Portuguese corners of the Anishinabek Nation to tell stories and record a perfect complement to the calorie-conscious salad I and Spanish settlers who forced them to become achievements, and to keep our citizens informed about activi- just ordered. Catholic. He called the Pope “a good theologian who ties of the Union of Ontario Indians. seemed to have missed some history classes.” Strength: To give a voice to the vision of the Anishinabek “They’re just trying to do their job, like I am,” I Nation that celebrates our history, culture and language, pro- try to remind myself over and over again. A Guatemalan anti-racism advocate said motes our land, treaty, and aboriginal rights, and supports the Benedict’s comments were a step backward. development of healthy and prosperous communities. But there’s one breed of pedlar for whom I have virtually no patience – the kind that dares to venture I respect his right to his own beliefs, but His NOTE: The Editor reserves the right to edit all submissions for onto my front doorstep. This is not to say that we Holiness better not show up at my front door. brevity, clarity, and suitability for publication. All formal com- won’t support high school kids selling chocolate bars ments and complaints must be addressed to Editorial Board c/o so they can go to Paris, or toss a couple of cans of Anishinabek News. pork and beans into a sack to support the local food Maurice Switzer is a citizen of the Mississaugas bank. of . He serves as director of communications for the Union of Ontario Indians, Just don’t knock on my door offering to replace my and editor of the Anishinabek News. aluminum siding or sign me up to a plan guaranteed Advertising & News Deadlines to cut my home heating bill in half. I swear by the The current circulation of the Anishinabek News is 10,000 copies, philosophy that if a sales pitch sounds too good to be with 9,000 mailed and 1,000 distributed at various events. true, it likely is.

DEADLINES FOR JUNE ISSUE Worst of all, don’t ring my doorbell – especially Advertising at 9 o’clock Saturday morning – holding a pamphlet Bookings: May 20 promising me the Key to Eternal Life if I just start Final Art: May 23 believing in your brand of religion. Nothing is more News offensive to me than someone who thinks they have News submissions: May 20 the right to sell me their set of beliefs, whether or not Scheduled printing: June 4 there are fi nancial strings attached. It’s one thing to try For more information or inquiries to the Anishinabek News to convince someone that you should buy a car from related to advertising and circulation issues please call our new them, quite another to imply that their core values are toll-free number: 1-800-463-6408 out of kilter. What is it about Christianity in particular that makes its adherents feel it is their divine duty to make CANADA POST CUSTOMER #1905929 AGREEMENT #0040011021 others switch to their brand? Given the result of May 2007 Anishinabek News Page 5 Maanda ndinendam/Opinions The land defi nes us all – farmers and First Nations By Richard Wagamese mashed potatoes and four kinds of You could feel the way they cedar in their hands and sniffed it This land defi nes all of us. It gives I learned to drive when I was ten. pie and ice cream for desert. But it felt about the land. It was in their deeply with their eyes closed. The land us all substance. Honouring a promise It was an old gray Allis-Chalmers was what happened after that sticks easy talk and the way they squinted defi ned them, gave them substance, is as important to Native people as tractor and my job was to pull the with me today. The men gathered on in earnestness at the fi elds, maybe gave them breath. it is to farmer folk. The process of wagon where the men of my adopted the veranda. There they sat in chairs, rubbed a head It takes togetherness to accomplish fi nalizing outstanding claims and family forked sheaves of wheat at slumped on the railings or lazed on of wheat in their things. That’s what I learned when I defi ning rights is valuable work, threshing time. I never went very fast the stairs. They smoked, drank a beer palms then sniffed learned to drive. These days there’s serious and requires a coming together but I learned to drive carefully so the or two and talked and laughed and it deeply with a lot of talk about land claims and of wills and strength and visions of the men on the top of the load were safe. joked. Some of the women drifted out their eyes closed. treaty rights. There’s a lot of anxiety country. There’s no right or wrong. When the wagon was full I drove to join them until it was time to head The land defi ned about someone losing while someone There’s only honour or dishonour. up the lane to the barn where the back to the fi elds. them, gave them gains. There’s a lot of concern about There’s only the harvesting of a threshing machine waited. I could I was a boy of ten, working for the substance, gave the land. common future, the drive smooth and hear the men chatting and laughing fi rst time and in the loose togetherness them breath. Richard Land claims and treaty rights are measured so as not to topple anyone. on the wagon behind me. I drove as of those people I got a sense of what Years later Wagamese old promises made when the country Richard Wagamese, Ojibway, smoothly as possible, proud to be able it took to accomplish things. They working with my was young. They’re not new deals Wabasseemoong First Nation in to contribute to the work. were farmer folk and threshing was people I’d see that connection again. based on greed. They’re a request Northwest Ontario, has won the When we stopped for lunch important business, something they It was in the easy talk of the elders, from one group of people to another Canadian Authors’ Association Award there were virtual feasts prepared took seriously, something they valued they way they squinted in earnestness for an honouring of a promise, for a for Fiction for 2007 for his latest for us. There was roast beef and and came together easily for. at the bush, maybe rubbed sage or pact made in honour. novel Dream Wheels. Natives as concerned about conservation as any harvesters By Chief Dan Couchie as well as many who participate protect, and enhance those resources for hunting and fi shing within our However, I do recognize that I’m a status Native person and a chief in outstanding fi sh and wildlife for the benefi t of treaty areas, I and many other First there are some who harvest fi sh of Pic River First Nation, as well as management initiatives. future generations.” Nations hunters and fi shers harvest and game without consideration for a retired conservation offi cer with 30 One such example is the Today in Ontario, no more than we need to provide for others, in a manner that is neither safe years’ service in wildlife and fi sheries Anishinabek Conservation and many First our families and communities. After nor conservation minded. I believe management. Fishing Agreement in Ontario. Nations initiatives all, it’s inherent in us to harvest in a this is a small minority of First I’m also an avid hunter and In particular, I would like to in fi sheries manner that will ensure the continued Nations people, as with any other angler. I can say with all conviction highlight just one telling clause management existence of fi sh and game. race or group. We certainly don’t that Indian bands across this vast land from the agreement: “Whereas the projects operate This always has been, and condone such activity, but it’s wrong have many centuries of sound fi sh and parties hereto acknowledge that under this Chief continues to be, essential to our to stereotype and judge us all based game management experience and conservation of the fi sheries resources agreement. I also Dan Couchie future. on the actions of a few. knowledge. is of paramount importance and that have a personal I can assure you that First And I know many First Nations all governments in Ontario, federal, interest in what is going on, as I’m an Nations people are as concerned as people today who are involved in provincial, and First Nations alike, have outdoorsman. Although we’re exempt non-Natives about conservation and Excerpted from an article in both commercial and sportfi sheries, a shared responsibility to preserve, from provincial licensing requirements matters of public health and safety. Outdoor Canada magazine.

Mckimm George (APTN)

10.25 X 7 Page 6 Anishinabek News May 2007 Nishnaabewin/Culture

Bezhigoon ni kwewag Taking a stand …by sitting down eyaamiwaad dandiwenwaa By Pamela Brown new sense of what was happening Brighton Independent out there. It was very troubling for COBOURG – Every morning in them.” two of Cobourg’s high schools, The policy at Cobourg East One fl aw in women after the echo of the bell fades High School, where Joseph is in and the fi rst notes of the Canadian Grade 11, is for an individual to national anthem start to play, four leave the classroom if he/she is not ANISHINAABEMOWIN students are taking a stand – by standing for the Canadian anthem. BY SHIRLEY WILLIAMS sitting down. “Joseph goes to the offi ce. “I don’t understand why Certainly we don’t view him going (the Canadian government) to the offi ce as a penalty. He could Kwewag daa’aanaawaa mshkoziiwin, niniwag e-maandaa- won’t apologize,” says Joseph go into the hall. It’s his choice,” nendamaawaajin. Meawasige, a high school student Joseph Meawasige said Lyn Stevens, acting principal Women have strengths that amaze men. from nearby Alderville First – Photo by Adam Huras of Cobourg East. Zengak miinwaa bi moodoonaawaa memoonji gwadagendaagok, boo’ooj Nation. He’s referring to Indian importance of bringing awareness Almost 17, Joseph said he dash wii-go mnjigonaanaawaa gchi-nendamowin ,zagidiwin miinwaa Affairs Minister Jim Prentice’s to the expanding gap between the doesn’t mind staying in the offi ce. mino-nwaangoziwin. late-March announcement that the social and economic status of First “I personally would not call this They bear hardships and they carry burdens, but they hold happiness, love Conservative government will not Nation communities and non-First a protest. I don’t agree with how and joy. issue an apology as a part of its Nation communities. the Canadian government is Gtoowe go zhoobiingwenowag aaniwi go nda-nwendamowaad wii- Alderville youth worker John noondaagoziwaad. settlement to survivors of native handling Native situations, the They smile when they want to scream. residential schools. But that’s not Mattson attended the conference most recent being the residential Gtoowe go ngamowag aaniwe go nda-nwedamowaad wii-miwiwaad. the only reason he’s staying in his with nine young people from his school settlement. My grandfather They sing when they want to cry. chair. community. “The kids heard about Leo was in a residential school. It Miwiwag pii gchi-nendamowaad miinwaa dash go baapiwag pii On Dec. 5, 2006 the Assembly troubling things like high suicide is part of my family history,” he niisaanendamowaad. of First Nations gathered 200 rates, poverty, water quality, said. They cry when they are happy and laugh when they are nervous. people on Parliament Hill to initiate education and less than appropriate Joseph and three other students Miigaandaanaawaa go ezhi-debiwedaamowaad. a call for action. It was not an issue- living conditions,” Mr. Mattson have been sitting for the national They fi ght for what they believe in. based conference, it was about the said. “The kids came home with a anthem since April 9, 2007. Bzagwiindaanaawaa go giish pin gego gwek zhesesinog. They stand up to injustice. Gaawiin mino-dapinoziinaawaa “Kaa” kwediwewin giish pii debiwendamowaad gego ooshime teg gego ge-nishingba.. They don’t take “no” for an answer when they believe there is a better solution. Wiinwaa go gego yaamaadizisiinaa, ooshime danendamowaawaan doo- ngodenaaziwinaawaa ji eyaamiwaad gego. They go without so their family can have. Mejgo iidig gaa-zhichigenid gwaya, geyaabi go zaagaawaan. ‘Re-Kindling the Flame’ They love unconditionally. Miwiwag pii dbinoojiinmiwaan shkiwezinid miinwaa gchi- noondaagoziwag pii wiijikiwenwaan debinomnid nagizowin.. August 20-26, 2007 They cry when their children excel and cheer when their friends get awards. THREE FIRES Gchi-nendimog noondimiwaad gwaya ndadiziiked mege niibiwnid. Ojibways of Garden River, east of Sault Ste. Marie They are happy when they hear about a birth or a wedding. Confederacy Gathering Ontario, Canada Biikde’esewag ezhinsodaawendamowaad wiijikiwenwaan nbonid. Their hearts break when a friend dies. Nsade’endamok gwaya nbonid gwaya debendaagozinid ezhi- “We envisioned this gathering to ngodenaazowaad, mshi dash wii-go mshkoziiwag nendamowaad iw sa celebrate our history and our lives as Ojibway, and Pottawatomi geyaabi eyaazigwaa mshkoziwin. people.” They grieve at the loss of a family member, yet they are strong when they – Grand Council Chief think there is no strength left. John Beaucage Kendaanaawaa teg aakwendoowin miinwaa jiindiwin mii maanda genoojimo’aang odewin. “This gathering will lead to a renewed sense of pride and Nationhood for They know that a hug and a kiss can heal a broken heart. our people.” Kwewag bi yaawag noo’oonj naabiwziwag, ninoojiiziwag, miinwaa – National Chief naaziwag. Phil Fontaine Women come in all shapes, sizes and colors. Kwe doo-oodem, mii maanda ki enji baabiimskobideg. “We truly want this gathering to be a The heart of a woman is what makes the world keep turning. homecoming of the Anishinaabe.” Biidoonaawaa minendamowin, bwasendamowin, miinwaa zagidiwin. – Grand Chief They bring joy, hope and love. Edward Benton-Banai Daa’aanaawaa zhaawenjigewin miinwaa nendamowinan. They have compassion and ideas. “As a direct descendant of Pane miigwenaawaa aasgaabitaagewinan ezhi-nodoodenaaziwaad Chief I am proud miinwaa ezhi-wiijkiwendiwaad. to be hosting this momentous gathering in our traditional territory They give moral support to their family and friends. (Ketegaunseebee).” Kwe daa’aanaa waa-kidowaad gewiinwaa e-piitendaagodinig miinwaa – Chief Lyle Sayers kino gego miigwewag ezhi-shkitoowaad. Women have vital things to say and everything to give. Maanj dash, giish pin gego doodimowin teg ezhi- kweying, Nendaanaawaa ge-wiinwaa ezhi-gchi-piitendaagoziwaad maan pii kiing! Bezhigoon ni FOR MORE INFORMATION kwewag eyaamiwaad dandiweniwaa! WHAT IS THE THREE FIRES CONFEDERACY GATHERING? Patrick Thunderchild HOWEVER, IF THERE IS ONE FLAW IN WOMEN, It is a gathering of the powerful alliance of the Anishinaabeg people from the Ojibway, Coordinator, Three Fires Confederacy Gathering IT IS THAT THEY FORGET THEIR WORTH. Odawa, and Pottawatomi Nations. Historically, the Three Fires Confederacy came (705) 949-2301 Ext. 4233 together for historical, political, social and spiritual purposes. Gatherings became less info@threefiresconfederacy.org frequent as Chiefs formed structured political organizations, and the Confederacy last www.threefiresconfederacy.org MEDICINE WALK & CEREMONIES assembled in 1991. Chiefs, leaders, and all Anishinabek citizens are welcome and invited to attend this Wikwemikong Unceded First Nation historic re-kindling of the Three Fires flame. Four day Medicine Walk: June 11 - 14 Ceremonies: June 15, 16, 17 Conducted by Cathy Bird, a specialist in traditional Native medicines, HOSTED IN UNITY BY from Peguis First Nation, Manitoba Everyone is welcome. Please bring your own chairs & eating utensils.

Sponsored by Manito Minis Mashkiki-gamik (Manitoulin Island Medicine Lodge) For further information contact Marie Stevens at (705) 967-0496 May 2007 Anishinabek News Page 7 Mno-bmaadziwin/Health Bannock, berries added to new Native version of Canada Food Guide Bannock, berries, wild game and canned milk are part of a new version of Canada’s Food Guide, created specifi cally for First Nations, Inuit and Métis. It’s the fi rst time Canada’s Food Guide has been tailored to meet any specifi c ethnic cultures in Canada. Like the standard guide, the aboriginal version shows how many servings people of varying age groups can choose from each of the four food groups every day, along with explanations on how much food makes a serving. Some culturally specifi c examples of single servings include:  Leafy vegetables and wild plants: 125 ml, cooked; 250 ml, raw.  Berries: 125 millilitres.  Bannock: 35 grams (a piece about fi ve by fi ve by 2.5 centimetres).  Traditional meats and wild game: 75 grams, cooked. The guide also lists canned milk and canned and frozen fruit and vegetables as practical alternatives to fresh milk and produce in remote communities, Whitehorse nutritionist Laura Salmon said. “They might be the only options seeing as fresh fruit doesn’t often survive that well on their long travels to the northern communities,” she said. Lori Doran, a senior adviser with Health Canada and one of the project leads on the new food guide, said Wednesday that the idea is to introduce the guide at reserve schools and health facilities. “We really want to get it into the hands of people at the community level, and what we’re hoping is that this food guide is used in a variety of ways,” Doran said. “We hope that individuals, families, communities use the food guide. We also hope that it’s used in other settings – like in schools to develop policies around foods to serve in the cafeterias, for example.” Health Canada sees the guide as one tool to help reduce such health problems as obesity and diabetes, which are widespread in First Nations communities. FAS: living at a slower pace By Anna Peltier affects everyone differently. Joseph. “ The teachers didn’t know SUDBURY – Every day is a struggle Depending upon when a pregnant what FAS was; they just thought for Joseph Cloutier. woman drinks, the alcohol affects I was mentally challenged. They Joseph was diagnosed over whatever organ or cells that are noticed I wasn’t able to write, 20 years ago with Fetal Alcohol developing at that time, resulting in the distractions were there; the Syndrome, a developmental a wide range of birth defects. fl uorescent lights. I wasn’t able disability caused by a birth mother’s For many people, the effects to do my assignments, I couldn’t consumption of alcohol during are invisible, since most damage is understand numbers and I couldn’t pregnancy. often done directly to the brain. comprehend. THE “I believe I can do things; I can Some of the effects may be It was like a short circuit and it still read, write, I can do normal very subtle, affecting a child’s was frustrating for me to fi nd out things but at a very slower pace” motor skill defi ciencies and what 2 + 2 was.” says Joseph, when asked about his resulting in developmental delays, Joseph traveled across Canada daily challenges. learning disabilities, short attention and the United States before COOKBOO K Joseph is of First Nation ancestry spans, hyperactivity, and physical settling down in Sudbury, a city he from Sagamok Anishnawbek and deformities, to name a few. considers home and a place where OF TRADITIONAL AND NON-TRADITIONAL FOODS was adopted by Marie and Eudore This range of symptoms makes he has a great deal of support from Cloutier when he was just over four FASD challenging to diagnose and various organizations, Native and If you would like to be included in this October cookbook please months old. Now 47, he lives in puts the alcohol- affected individuals non-native alike. submit your favourite recipe (typed) along with a photo of Sudbury and was willing to share at risk of being misdiagnosed “It helps me out an awful lot,” yourself and a little personal background to the address below. his personal story about having with a different disorder, such as he says. “ I can use their gifts that DEADLINE FOR RECIPE SUBMISSIONS: Wed. August 15, 2007. FAS in hopes that it will inspire autism or attention-defi cit disorder. they have and I can apply them into others who have this disability and The symptoms also pose major my life. I can learn from them. to encourage prospective mothers to challenges as affected individuals Use the best of their services to avoid alcohol during pregnancy. enter the school system. my knowledge and work as a team At the time of his diagnosis, not “School for me was hard,” says together. I feel that using their much was known about FAS. “I services helps me to know where I never heard about it and the doctors fi t in within this community.” didn’t know what FAS was; they just Knowing that he was different thought I had a mental problem.” from others left Joseph experiencing However, as time progressed for feelings of isolation, confusion, Joseph, it became a choice of frustration and anger. But through whether to sink or swim. Joseph his determination to show others chose to swim. that he can live a “normal” life, he “ I take my life experiences and has set a positive example for his use it as a learning too,” he says. “I peers. The Anishinabek News had to accept [having FAS] and be “I accept myself for who I am,” P.O. Box 711, the best I can be and live with it. I he says. “I know who I am, and I North Bay, ON P1B 8J8 want to show other people what it’s know where I am going. People Tel: (705) 497-9127 like to have FAS and turn it from who have FAS need to accept Fax: (705) 497- 9135 or email: a negative aspect to a positive themselves and love themselves. [email protected] aspect.” Joseph Cloutier and partner Lynn Think positive, act positive, and be Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Mayor. positive!” Page 8 Anishinabek News May 2007

Hilsoft Notifi cations Residential School settlement approved full page

you requested to place on pg 7, Hilsoft request to have adjacent editorial May 2007 Anishinabek News Page 9 In Brief Intergovernmental Affairs Hydro rebate on reserve THUNDER BAY – On-reserve First Nations residents with a valid MPs sorry for residential schools...but not PM certifi cate of Indian Status do not OTTAWA (CP) – The House of Rather, it’s important that Canadians schools has been well documented, sick former students die each month. have to pay the Ontario Hydro Commons stood as one to collectively hear the full story about residential he said in an interview. “You don’t need the truth and Debt Retirement Charge (DRC). apologize for the sad legacy of Native schools fi rst. Any more delay is “very reconciliation commission to fi nish in “Anyone (with a valid status residential schools, but don’t expect Ottawa is planning a $60-million, irresponsible.’’ Several elderly and order to consider giving an apology.’’ card) who lives on reserve, they’re to hear the prime minister say he’s fi ve-year truth and reconciliation automatically exempt,” said John sorry. commission that will travel Lang, policy advisor with the That’s because a Liberal motion Canada hearing stories about the Ontario Ministry of Energy. “You that passed 257-0 on May 1st is echoing impact of the now-defunct CHIEF’S CORNER shouldn’t be getting that item largely symbolic. institutions. Chief: Georgina Thompson (DRC) on your bill.” Indian Affairs Minister Jim Prentice cited a similar process First Nation: . Located on Hwy 6, just 10 First Nation bands and band Prentice says a formal apology from to deal with South Africa’s painful km east of Little Current on Manitoulin Island. councils that consume electricity the Conservative government is likely era of apartheid. At the end of it, an Current Population: on-reserve are also exempt from 330 registered members years away – if it comes at all. apology from the head of state was Political Career: This is Chief Thompson’s second term in offi ce. paying the DRC, but corporations He made a clear distinction recommended, he said. Before being elected Chief, she was a staff member owned by Status Indians do not between what happens in the Many surviving students say qualify for the exemption. Commons and the obligations of an apology from the prime minister at the band offi ce. She is the fi rst woman to become To obtain a DRC exemption the “executive branch’’ of cabinet is more important than receiving a Chief in Sheguiandah’s history. form, please contact your First ministers. cheque. Goals for the Community: To create more Nation offi ce. Prentice says his main obligation Phil Fontaine, national chief economic development, and to build more houses. More information is available now is to implement a compensation of the Assembly of First Nations, There are 66 houses on the reserve, with more needed. on the Internet at www.fi n.gov. deal worth well over $2 billion. was one of the fi rst public fi gures to Also to have a higher rate in graduates from secondary on.ca The offer to about 80,000 former openly talk about his own damaging school to post-secondary. Chief Georgina residential school students is expected experience. Community accomplishments: It has taken two to be fi nalized by September, settling “Those of us who were personally years to overcome the defi cit. She is also proud of the Thompson staff one of the largest and most complex abused, as well as those who suffered completion of the water treatment plant, and the public works building. Allan Dokis lawsuits in Canadian history. intergenerational effects of abuse, There are four houses and one fourplex that have been built, with more Intergovernmental Affairs Director It does not include an apology, deserve the fullest, most sincere, building to come. [email protected] although one was promised by the and complete apology from the Vision for the community: Chief Thompson’s vision for her com- former Liberal government that representatives of the Canadian munity is to have a larger community membership, to build more sub- Alicia McLeod initially crafted the deal. people. divisions and have more economic development on and off the First Treaty Research Coordinator “We’re in the midst of the “We expect that the prime Nation. [email protected] implementation of (the agreement),’’ minister of Canada will apologize in People who infl uenced her: Her brother mentioned to her that she Sandra Prentice said outside the Commons. “I a timely fashion and in an appropriate should run for Chief if she wanted to make a difference. Treaty Research Clerk think that’s an important consideration public ceremony so that this matter Personal interests/Hobbies: Chief Thompson’s interests are in that someone in my position as can fi nally be put behind us.’’ [email protected] gardening, traveling and quilting, but she has not had much time to minister needs to be cognizant of.’’ Liberal MP Gary Merasty says Kerry Colnar Prentice says that doesn’t mean survivors shouldn’t have to wait. enjoy her hobbies. Operations Support Offi cer an apology from the prime minister Widespread abuse, cultural loss [email protected] is being stalled to avoid legal snags. and even death in the church-run In Brief Lands and Resources MNR transfers Eagle remains The Union of Ontario Indians and Ontario’s Ministry of Natural Resources signed a March 27 Youth agreement that respects the spiritual signifi cance of Eagles to the Anishinabek people. Under learn the terms of the Eagle Transfer Protocol, the MNR will transfer to the Union of Ontario Indians some bald or golden Eagle parts on land or remains “in a manner that is consistent with good conservation By Rhonda Gagnon practices and general law.” MATTAWA – The Lands and The agreement recognizes that Resource Department of the Anishinabek member First Nation Union of Ontario Indians communities have a tradition of staged two youth stewardship using Eagle and Eagle parts for workshops in May at the ceremonial, social, and spiritual Canadian Ecology Centre to help purposes, including pow-wows, educate Anishinabek youth about births, burial, feasts, smudging natural resource management and and special ceremonies. Amber Simpson,15, Serpent River First Nation and a Canadian Ecology sustainability through land-based Centre facilitator demonstrate how to start a fi re using old tools such as learning. a twig, leather, and wood spinals. staff The workshops were offered to youth aged 14-17 Ambassadors (Caretakers of experience. I made some good from the Nation’s 42 member Mother Earth) in hopes that they friends on this trip.” Casey Restoule,15, Dokis First Jason Laronde communities, and attracted would retain lasting impressions Guest speaker Nathan Kirby Nation takes a breather after Resource Management Council 33 participants and four team about the importance of natural from MNR, team leaders Sandy completing a strenuous hill on the Coordinator leaders for the two-day sessions. resources as they pursue their Albert and Arnold Yellowman Keg hiking trail at the Canadian [email protected] Ecology Center at Mattawa. Participants were exposed to educational goals in life. of the Youth Council, Amanda Nadine Roach information about ecology, “This was a very fun program Elm, Adam Elm, and Tina were Forestry Coordinator wetlands, outdoor survival skills, to be at,” said Amber Simpson, instrumental in the success of the be situated along the Northshore [email protected] GPS and GIS systems, Forestry, 15, from Serpent River First workshops. area of Manitoulin Island. Barb Naveau and they also engaged in fun Nation. “I would recommend it The UOI Lands and Resource Applications will be available Forestry Offi ce Assistant activities that helped establish to anyone. I have been to many Department has partnered online at www.anishinabek.ca, [email protected] new friendships with youth from workshops, but this one was the with the MNR to build a team and for more information on the Rhonda Gagnon other communities. most organized. ” of Anishinabek Stewardship Junior Ranger program you can Anishinabek Community Each participant received Brian Jr. Shawanda, 16, from Rangers. The Ranger program go to http://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/ Stewardship Leader an award recognizing them Wikiwemkong said the workshop will consist of one team leader MNR/youthprograms/steward. [email protected] as Anishinabek Stewardship was “outstanding fun and a good and four rangers and the team will html Page 10 Anishinabek News May 2007 Restoration of Jurisdiction

Stewart Clatworthy, (left) a leading Education negotiators scholar of Canadian Aboriginal socio-economic and demographic circumstances, and Jeff Hewitt, to table fi nal drafts of President of the Indigenous Bar Association and General Counsel for Rama Mnjikaning agreement this June First Nation, were presenters at By Mary Laronde assure Merle Pegahmagabow, the Ogemmawahj Tribal Council’s The Anishinabek Nation education Anishinabek Head Negotiator, and “E-Dbendaagzijig – Those Who negotiation team is proceeding to legal counsel, Tracey O’Donnell, Belong” conference on Indian develop Anishinabek fi nal drafts of that there was a commitment on status and membership. the Agreement with respect to the Canada’s side to proceed with the – Photo by Mary Laronde Exercise of Education Jurisdiction, education agreement. the Fiscal Transfer Agreement, Littlejohn talked about “shifting and the Implementation Plan and sands,” announcing that the Stats show ‘the disappearing Indian’ aims to table these this June. This Canada-Anishinabek education fi le By Mary Laronde tration to populations where large 2004) to about 237,000 within work is proceeding in line with the was moving from Ontario Region Stewart Clatworthy, famous and growing numbers of individu- one generation (year 2929). workplan and timelines developed to headquarters for effi ciency’s in Indian country as a demogra- als lack Indian registration. The • The population entitled to reg- by the Anishinabek team. sake. pher and statistician, has produced process will affect both on and istration is projected to grow In September 2006, the “There is capacity at many reports for Indian Affairs and off-reserve populations, although for about two generations (50 Anishinabek team fi rst tabled a headquarters to deal with central Northern Development Canada short-term impacts will be most years), peaking at about 1.2 mil- funding proposal and also presented agencies and we are trying to take (INAC), the Royal Commission on pronounced off reserve. Changes lion. a negotiated Implementation advantage of other agreements Aboriginal Peoples, and for First will be especially pronounced • After four generations (100 Plan to Canada. Since then, there coming forward from regional Nations. (both on and off reserve) among years), the registered popula- has been no counter-proposal or offi ces across the country,” he The national picture he paints First Nations with high rates of In- tion would fall back to about offi cial response from Canada. said. shows populations of many First dian/non-Indian parenting. Many 876,000. Although Canada’s team has been Also, Littlejohn announced Nations in Canada undergoing sig- First Nations are likely to experi- • The population of non-entitled without a Cabinet mandate since changes to Canada’s negotiation nifi cant change over the course of ence declining populations of reg- descendants would increase June 2006, the promise of a soon- team. Joining Chief Federal the next generation. istered individuals over the course throughout the period reaching to-be renewed mandate has kept Negotiator Sheila Murray are He writes, “The nature of of the next two generations.” 679,000 after four generations. discussions alive at the table. Craig Atkinson, Senior Negotiator change is generally one from Clatworthy’s key fi ndings: • Within 2 generations, roughly The mandate question was (formerly a policy analyst at the populations which are comprised • Descendants who do not qualify 1 in every 4 individuals would brought to the attention of Minister Privy Council Offi ce), Darrell largely of individuals who meet for registration are expected to not qualify for Indian registra- Jim Prentice by Grand Council Paul and Dolly Hos from INAC the requirements for Indian regis- increase from about 92,000 (in tion under the current rules. Chief John Beaucage at their headquarters and Peter Coon, legal February 16 meeting, at which counsel. Sophie Radecki and Diane time the Indian Affairs Minister Bain from Ontario Region are indicated that he would resolve the still assigned to the fi le. Recently issue. retired from the employ of the At the April 23 Canada- federal government are assistant MNR Wawa Anishinabek negotiation meeting federal negotiator Glenn Brennan, in Nipissing, Bruce Littlejohn, who headed administration from acting director of self-government Ontario Region; John Sontrop, who negotiations at INAC headquarters developed the implementation plan Montreal River notifi cation told the Anishinabek team, “It and the fi scal transfer agreement; would not be wise for me to give and Allan Cracower, Department you any dates,” when pressed of Justice and legal counsel for the 6 x 7.5 for a defi nitive answer about the federal education team. mandate. Littlejohn said that the The timelines of the negotiations mandate renewal was at the federal have been moved up by a year. As a caucus for review by offi cer-level result, the new potential ratifi cation bureaucrats representing central date is September 2008 and the new agencies such as Treasury Board, Effective Date is April 2009. Finance, the Privy Council Offi ce, A heavy schedule has been set and the Prime Minister’s offi ce. for meetings with Canada over the The federal caucus is the fi rst next few months to complete the level in a three-tiered approval agreement. Following are the dates process that includes assistant and locations: deputy ministers in the second level May 8-10 – Kettle and Stony Point and fi nally, the federal Cabinet May 22-24 – Nipissing itself. May 29-31 – Garden River While not able to give a June 5-7 – Nipissing date when the mandate would Anishinabek citizens are be renewed, Littlejohn did welcome to attend these sessions.

Chief Federal Negotiator, Sheila Murray is accompanied by Senior Negotiator, Craig Atkinson (centre) and Bruce Littlejohn, Manager(Acting), Self Government Negotiations, both from Indian Affairs-Hull, at the Anishinabek-Canada meeting held in the Elders’ Hall at the UOI head offi ce, Nipissing First Nation. Littlejohn was on hand to announce the appointment of new federal team members and the move of the Anishinabek negotiations fi le from Ontario Region to INAC headquarters. May 2007 Anishinabek News Page 11 Restoration of Jurisdiction OTC conference tackles ‘Indian status’ head-on By Mary Laronde at the Assembly of First Nations Bev Jacobs, President of the Native presented on how First Nations are Women’s Association of Canada funded. The bottom line is that it is (NWAC), says, “We are all Bill not clear how dollars are attached C-31 Indians.” Sure enough. If to Indian status but it is clear that you are a “registered” or “status” since 1996, when a 2% budget Indian, you are either 6(1) or 6(2), cap was instituted, the purchasing Panelists from the fi nal session of the “E-Dbendaagzijig – Those Who Belong” conference on Indian status both categories instituted through power of First Nations has steadily and membership reported back from break-out sessions where participants discussed possible solutions and the 1985 amendments to the Indian decreased as population and infl a- options. Left to right are Larry Gilbert, Barrister and Solicitor; Wayne Beaver, Alderville First Nation Councillor; Act. tion grew. Dr. Martin Cannon, Assistant Professor of Sociology, University of Saskatchewan; Darlene Johnston, Assistant Jacobs, closing day one of the Janvier said “the $9.1 billion Professor and Aboriginal Student Advisor, University of Toronto Faculty of Law; and Dave Stinson and Colette national E-dbendaagzijig – “Those dollar myth is exposed: only $5.4 Isaac, land use planning consultants partnering as Incite Planning. – Photo by Mary Laronde Who Belong” First Na- billion of all federal “Ab- tion Citizenship and original” spending actu- Status Conference, April ally ever reaches First Grand Council Chief Beaucage 16 and 17 in Toronto, Nations.” Indian and explained that her orga- Northern Affairs Canada nization exists because has confi rmed that only rejects concept of ‘Indian status’ of Bill C-31. Mary Two- 82% of policy and pro- By Mary Laronde 3. Who can live on the First Nation Indians” is self-determination. In Axe Earley wanted to re- gram funds actually reach E-dbendaagzijig – “those who be- territory his Political Manifesto, Article 9, turn and be buried in her First Nations. About long” – is an Anishinabek concept 4. Who can own land it states that “only our traditional community but was de- 11% or $600 million is meaning citizenship in today’s 5. Eligibility for Housing Assis- governments have the right to de- nied by Chief and Coun- spent on INAC overhead context. The right to decide who tance – on-reserve fi ne our citizenry” and “we reject cil because she had mar- Bev Jacobs, alone each year. In what belongs is an inherent right. It is 6. Some Economic Development the concept of Indian status.” ried a non-Indian, losing President, Janvier calls the “zero the core of self-determination. Programs “The bottom line is that we her Indian status and the Native Women’s sum game” – no new While 300-plus delegates and 7. Voting rights in First Nation will determine who our citizens rights and benefi ts that Association of money – INAC is real- are attached to that legal 20-odd presenters at the national elections are,” the Grand council Chief said Canada locating across programs designation. like capital, housing, in- E-dbendaagzijig – “Those Who Beaver expalined how devas- during his presentation titled “The On July 5, 1985, Two-Axe come assistance, facilities and op- Belong” First Nation Citizenship tating Bill C-31 is to First Nations Sovereign Approach to Self-Gov- Earley became the fi rst person in erations/mangement, and post-sec- and Status Conference, agreed as we know them today. “Current ernment.” Canada to regain her Indian status. ondary education. Janvier said it is trends in birth rates and ‘out-mar- Grand Council Chief Beau- that self-determination is a hu- Two-Axe Earley, who was 73, was diffi cult to know what the federal man right, declining status Indian riage’ rates mean that the last status cage said he would be seeking a reported to have said, “Now I’ll governmnet is actually spending populations and its implications Indian will be born in Alderville in mandate in June 2007 from the have legal rights again. After all on. The provinces receive trans- for First Nations, will not be easily 2025.” Chiefs-in-Assembly to develop these years, I’ll be legally entitled fers as well for Aboriginal people resolved. Grand Council Chief John an Anishinabek Nation law re- to live on the reserve, to own prop- but there is no requirement to even The registration of status In- Beaucage indicated that the an- specting citizenship based on the erty, die and be buried with my own spend on First Nations, according dians is unilaterally controlled by swer to the extinction of “status one-parent rule (a model used by people.” to Janvier. “There is no [provincial] Canada. In recent self-government many modern nation-states), First Jacobs called for a return to our accountability to First Nations.” and treaty negotiations, Canada Nation-based citizenship codes, an traditions, an end to continuing in- Janvier said there needs to be struc- has proved unwilling to relinquish Anishinabek Nation registry, citi- equities for women and violence tural change, a new system of fi scal its power to determine who is a zenship cards and an Anishinabek against women and children in our transfers for First Nations. status Indian because “Indian sta- Nation passport. communites. In his address opening the con- tus” confers certain rights and ben- “The Sovereign Approach to Fast-forward 22 years and the ference, National Chief Phil Fon- efi ts that the federal government is Self-Government” is consistent effects of Bill C-31 are clear. With- taine pointed out how First Nation required to honor and protect. with section 35 rights,” he said, in two generations, roughly one in leaders are burdened with an im- Wayne Beaver, a councillor at adding that “the (Sec- every four individuals would not possible situation – to be respon- Alderville First Nation has been tions 5-14) has never replaced our qualify for Indian registration un- sible to their citizens and meet their working on the issue of “Indian right to determine our own citi- der the current rules. (S. Clatwor- needs in the face of discriminatory status” since Bill C-31 became law zens. It is clear that the intent of thy) Source: Stewart Clatworthy, and chronic underfunding in a sys- in 1985. Beaver is adamant that the Indian Act is to reduce Can- slide presentation, The Changing tem that is a set-up for failure and status is important to First Nations ada’s liability by reducing First Demography of First Nations undermines First Nation govern- because of the rights and entitle- Nations one generation at a time. Populations: Impacts of the 1985 ments. ments that have become attached We reject the Indian Act in all its Indian Act Amendments to the Organizers of the conference to it. entirety.” Rules Governing Indian Registra- were very happy with the results. To be defi ned as a status “In- In 1924, Duncan Campbell- tion. Marc Manatch, Employment and dian” means entitlement to receive Scott, Deputy Superintendant Joanne Smoke, Executive Di- Training Coordinator at OTC said benefi ts under the Indian Act. Ex- General of Indian Affairs wrote: rector of the Ogemawwahj Tribal the chiefs and staff felt that they ac- amples are, but not limited to: “Our object is to continue until Council (OTC) which sponsored complished their objective to edu- 1. Education, health care, non-in- there is not a single Indian in Can- the event, urged First Nations to cate and raise awareness on a “very sured health benefi ts, tax ex- ada who has not been absorbed educate youth on the impacts of political issue.” “We wanted to emption – with limitations Grand Council Chief John into the body politic, and there is declining Indian registration and look at the issues behind the issues, 2. Treaty Right (hunting, fi shing, Beaucage outlines his ”sovereign no Indian question, and no Indian to create opportunities for “Indian” to understand why we are where we trapping, gathering) approach”. Department.” youth to meet one another and per- are now. No one owns this issue. It haps reverse “out-marriage” rates affects us all.” and preserve 6 (1) status. More than 300 delegates and Jeff Hewitt, a lawyer working over 20 speakers from every region, CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT NOTICE for Mnjikaning First Nation, pre- from the Nisga’a Nation in the west On behalf of myself and the Capacity Development Committee I would like to thank all of the participants who sented a history of assimilation, to the Mi’kmaq Nation in the east, attended the six workshops that were held in the past year. As these workshops assist in the development of our telling conference-goers that we spent three days in respectful dis- communities and our nation they also assist in the further development of our people. Each of the workshops were are not victims; rather, we are the cussion of this issue and options for facilitated by members from communities within the Union of Ontario Indians. Also, we try as much as possible to evidence of the crimes committed the future. have the workshops on First Nations within the Union of Ontario Indians. In order to maintain this I would like to against us. Hewitt says that wam- In his closing remarks, facilita- remind everyone that in the coming months the committee will be meeting and begin setting out the process for pum belts and treaties are valid tor Gordon Peters of the Centre for the 2007-08 series of workshops. The process will include a Call for Proposals for Workshop Facilitators as well in law. He also related how pro- Indigenous Sovereignty asked the as a Call for Proposals for Communities to Host a workshop. We are hoping to present the workshops between cedural wranglings about getting conference to “acknowledge what September 2007 and March 2008 pending the availability of funding. information into court stall cases we have done to each other through unduly and cases sometimes do not the Indian Act...inform people so Meegwetch. Terry Restoule, Capacity Development Coordinator. get heard on the merits. we can move forward…we must Dean Janvier, a special advisor fi nd the heart of our nations.” Page 12 Anishinabek News May 2007 DOHM-NUK/LET’S PLAY!

Rabbit & Bear Paws

ASK HOLLY BY HOLLY BRODHAGEN [email protected] Attitude counts in volunteering I have to volunteer for school and I don’t want to. What is the point? Volunteering helps you learn community responsibility and helps you fi gure out what you may want to do when you are out of school. Schools in Ontario require you to complete 40 hours of community-service hours to graduate. You have four years to complete your hours although a lot of students seem to leave it until the last minute. Here are my suggestions: Do your hours as soon as possible. If you want to volunteer somewhere that has an age restriction then you might have to wait for a year or two but in the meantime you can look seized. You never know when for something else you might be that skill will come in handy, interested in. especially when you are thinking You are not limited to 40 about getting a paying job. hours. If you really like what you Volunteering is a constructive are doing and the people where and entertaining way to wile you are volunteering would away the hours. Summer like you to stay, then stay. Your holidays can get boring if all you experiences will help you fi nd a are doing is watching T.V. and job. sleeping. Volunteering once or You do not have to stay twice a week can also keep you somewhere where you are not from being an annoyance to your appreciated, where you are not parents. safe or that you generally dislike. You will get a chance to meet This does not mean you should some great people and maybe leave if they ask you to do one even some famous ones. job you might not like or if you There are so many different get bored. Talk it out with your things you can volunteer to do supervisor, school counsellor – the sky really is the limit. Nitanis “Kit” Landry and parents. University, colleges and You have a responsibility employers are always looking to the place where you are for people who have useful volunteering. Agencies spend a skills, demonstrate commitment lot of time and money training and are civic-minded. their volunteers so they would Your attitude will largely like to keep you for as long determine the success of your as possible. They might also volunteer experience. If you depend on you to complete a think it will be boring and you job that you took on. If you are grudgingly do the work then thinking of leaving, talk to your you are only hurting yourself. supervisor and maybe you can With a little effort, you can fi nd work out something. an amazing place to spend your Volunteering is more and time and contribute your skills. more like a job. You have to fi nd Enjoy this opportunity to the a place to apply, you might be fullest. interviewed and you might need some prerequisites before they Holly Brodhagen, Dokis First agree to take you on, such as a Nation, holds a Masters of criminal reference check or fi rst Social Work degree. Questions or Harmony Nights aid training. comments can be directed to her Nitanis “Kit” Landry, Whitefi sh Lake FN, has released a new CD – “Harmony Nights” – on which she sings Every opportunity you have c/o by e-mail at askholly@gmail. with Grammy nominees Alex E. Smith and Cheevers Toppah. Copies available from Canyon Records. Check out Kit’s website: www.myspace.com/nitanislandry to learn a new skill should be com May 2007 Anishinabek News Page 13

High school students hammer nails while earning diplomas By Rick Garrick while in the program. “We’ve been FORT WILLIAM FN – Conrad supplied with safety boots, helmets, Bannon is enjoying the work he and gloves, and safety glasses. Safety is a nine other Aboriginal high school big issue.” students are doing on Fort William The course instructor, Robert First Nation’s old Mount McKay ski Dasey, is a high school teacher with chalet. master electrician, construction “It used to be a wonderful place and St. John Ambulance First Aid when we had the ski hill,” says certifi cations. Bannon, a Fort William band member. “He’s a good teacher, considerate, “It feels good to try to bring it back.” polite, outgoing,” Krowczuk says. Bannon and his St. Patrick High “He’s very hands-on.” On a window School colleagues are participating shutter project, Dasey asks the in a unique partnership between the students to draw up their own designs, Thunder Bay Catholic District School which he then discussed regarding the Board and Fort William First Nation advantages of each and any additional -– a Specialist High Skills Major pilot features which would improve the project that provides the students design. with hands-on experience and an “I want them to come up with the opportunity to obtain certifi cations in ideas,” Dasey says. “It’s much more a variety of construction fi elds which like hands-on learning.” Dasey will they may be interested in pursuing, eventually begin teaching the students ranging from carpentry to electrical to how to build walls and fl oors along plumbing, while also earning credits one side of the ski chalet interior. towards their Ontario Secondary The Grade 11 St. Patrick High School Diploma. School program is part of the new “Everything fell into place just Ontario Ministry of Education Student perfectly,” says Ian Bannon, Fort Success Initiative announced this past William First Nation’s property December by Minister of Education manager and a band councillor, Kathleen Wynne. noting that the band had been Ian Bannon says the program considering what to do with the ski gives students the opportunity to chalet. “It provides the opportunity make choices and discover where for the education of Fort William First their interests lie. “We do have a Nation students. The students will be low percentage of tradesman in our given a taste of each component of the community,” he says. “We hope renovation and construction phases of this program will increase that the project. And the time they spend percentage.” with the project will be recognized Even though the students have (for apprenticeship purposes) by the only recently begun their hands-on Ministry of Training, Colleges and training at the ski chalet, Dasey has Universities.” noticed that they are improving their Grade 12 student Thomas skills. Krowczuk is looking forward to “They’re actually helping each the opportunity to write a level one other,” Dasey says. “When I see one apprenticeship exam during the person helping another, that’s a good program’s second semester next year, sign – they’re starting to master that which will be held at Confederation skill.” College. Conrad Bannon, who is looking “It’s what I wanted to get into,” forward to working in the construction says Krowczuk, a Rocky Bay band fi eld this summer, says that his father member who is also looking to earn is encouraging him to continue with his WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous the program. “He wants me to have Materials Information System) and St. some experience before he takes me Thomas Krowczuk attaches one of the window shutters to Fort William First Nation’s ski chalet. John Ambulance First Aid certifi cates out on the job site.”

ANCU 10.25 x 2 place front page of education section Page 14 Anishinabek News May 2007 Kinoomaagewin/Education

Feet tap to Niijii drum NORTH BAY – Students were clapping, swaying and tapping their feet to the sounds of the drum during an Education Week presentation at St. Alexander’s School. The Niijii (“friends”) Circle public education presentation was a joint effort between the North Bay Indian Friendship Centre and the Union of Ontario Indians. The event began with the Kindergarten to Grade Six student body forming a large circle outside on the school grounds to participate in a traditional smudge and strawberries ceremony. Lead singer Darren Nakogee, originally from Attawapiskat, and brother-and-sister dancers Thailia and Lindsay Sarazin demonstrated various traditional dances steps, and got the students up to participate in a round dance around the gymnasium. Thailia, 12, received huge applause for her hoop dancing, only the second time she had performed the Darren Nakogee helps smudge Lindsay and Thailia Sarazin with St. Alexander challenging dance in public. Traditional dancer Lindsay Sarazin Hoop dancer Thailia Sarazin ceremony students

Spirit Journey Students explore aboriginal history There were a number of aboriginal-issue entries in the second annual Historica Fair held at Nipissing University May 3-4. The Historica Fair brings together local students from grades 4 through 9 to share projects that showcase the history, geography and heritage of their local community, province and country. More than 150 students from 11 local schools participated in this year’s event. – By Marci Becking Wiky Board of Ed. Job posting 4 x 9.75

Sam Beaucage

On April 19, 2007 Sam Stephanie Kiokee’s project on the Allie Seamont, from St. Joseph’s Elementary Beaucage began his spirit Ojibway. School with project on Residential Schools. journey surrounded by his family. Mskwaa bneshiinh began his journey on earth at Garden Village on Nipissing First Nation. He was pre-deceased by his mother Lucy, father Peter, brothers Victor, John, George, Mike, and David, and sister Leona. Instilled with a strong work ethic, Sam followed job Kathleen Corbiere from Mother St. Bride School with family’s art from M’Chigeeng FN. opportunities across Ontario until settling near in 1951 and working at the CIL plant in Nobel. He went on to work for the Department of Highways for 25 years before retiring for health reasons in the late 1970’s. Sam’s retirement enabled him to indulge his real passions ONECA – hunting, fi shing, golfi ng and making maple syrup with his children and grandchildren. Training Upgrade He was instrumental in leading a First Nations AA group starting in 1973 until poor 4 x 4.5 health forced him to give up his regular Sunday morning meetings. He is survived by his wife June, son John (Bonnie) of , daughter Sandy (Stan) Jacklin of , son Al (Mary) of Sarnia, daughter Sharon (David) Beaucage-Johnson of , his seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. May 2007 Anishinabek News Page 15 Kinoomaagewin/Education Award helping medical student continue research By Rick Garrick THUNDER BAY – Tracy Michano-Stewart will be continuing her research into obesity, diabetes and hypertension among ’s Aboriginal children, thanks to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario. “I was selected to receive the research award again this year,” says Michano- Stewart, a second-year Northern Ontario School of Medicine student and former health director for the Ojibways of Pic River. “It’s a continuation of the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario-funded research project I began last summer.” Tracy Michano-Stewart outside NOSM’s West Campus on the Lakehead University grounds. Michano-Stewart was one of six students who received this year’s $6,000 Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario Summer Medical Student Awards for NOSM, a program which began in 2006 and is slated to run for fi ve years, and she is excited about continuing with her research. “The project approaches the issue from three different perspectives,” she says, explaining that her research looks at trends in body mass index, blood glucose and blood pressure statistics among a population of northern Ontario Aboriginal elementary school children, parental perceptions of factors affecting the health of their children, and current practices and beliefs of northern Ontario’s family physicians regarding the health care of Aboriginal children. “If there’s a trend we can identify, maybe there’s a recommendation we can make that will improve the health care and health status of Aboriginal children.” Michano-Stewart’s research evolved from an innovative health screening program at Pic River Elementary School she helped develop as the community’s health director, which looked at the children’s body mass index, blood glucose levels and blood pressure levels. During her 2006 session on the research project, Michano-Stewart worked with Dr. Kim Barker, a NOSM faculty member affi liated with the Assembly of First Nations who provided supervision and support. Now she is looking to wrap up her research by the end of this summer, with the hope of eventually publishing a research article. “Doing the research in Pic River contributes to my community by providing them with a usable set of data and some experience with the research process,” Second-year medical student Michano-Stewart says. “It’s good for me too because it increases my exposure Tracy Michano-Stewart accepts her 2007 Heart and Stroke Foundation Tracy Michano-Stewart checks to research and lets me investigate some important health care issues within of Ontario research award from Tara Monteith, area manager for the out some of the equipment she northern Ontario. Whether it’s publishable or not, I don’t know, we’ll have to Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario’s Thunder Bay offi ce, as Dr. has been using at NOSM’s West wait and see what happens.” Roger Strasser, founding dean of NOSM looks on. Campus in Thunder Bay. The mother of three children, aged four, eight and 10, Michano-Stewart grew up in Pic River, earned her Registered Nursing degree at Lakehead University in Thunder Bay, ran Pic River’s health centre for 10 years, and now has almost completed two of her four years at NOSM. “I just felt like I was meant to do more,” she says, explaining her reasons for pursuing a medical degree at NOSM. She enjoys academic pursuits, and has enjoyed her time at NOSM. “This class is great. There are a lot of different people from different backgrounds.” Michano-Stewart had never thought about being a doctor before NOSM opened, but once Pic River hosted NOSM’s Aboriginal Placement pilot project, she decided to look into the opportunity to study at NOSM’s Thunder Bay MNR Wawa Campus. “I wouldn’t have gone anywhere else,” she says. Michipicoten 6 x 6 ONECA Counsellor Program 4 x 4.5 Page 16 Anishinabek News May 2007

Native Studies FULL PAGE CENTRE SPREAD May 2007 Anishinabek News Page 17

Native Studies FULL PAGE FULL CENTRE SPREAD Page 18 Anishinabek News May 2007 Kinoomaagewin/Education

Six ‘Turtles’ Turtle Concepts Adam McLeod from Moose First Nation, Erik Elie from Batchewana Bay First Nation, Jordan Dokis from Dokis First Nation, Mekwan Tulpin from fi ghting against Ft. Albany, Gale George from ‘crabs in bucket’ Kettle and Stoney Point. By Shirley Honyust yourself and take pride in your SUDBURY – “Loser”, “geek”, confi dence. It is who you are. “tramp”, “thinks she’s so good”… They refer to their organization are classic put-downs often heard as TC and they shared their stories by young people who take very of the battle to “do good” and seriously the words of advice and “believe in themselves” with eager wisdom from their parents and listeners. elders: “be good” and “stay out of “Crabs in the Bucket” is the trouble”. biggest game in Indian Country David Jones, originally from and Jones has found out, that it Garden River First Nation, is is also the biggest game outside the founder of Turtle Concepts, of Indian Country as well. Crabs remarkable confi dence. As the mentioned spending fi ve days and hopes to work this year at and he brought his entourage of in the bucket climb all over each mentor, Jones introduces his group on the road as “just part of the a summer resort that caters to “losers and tramps” to Laurentian other fi ghting for room, and when one by one, and each tells their story job”. Turtle Concepts facilitators the cottage crowd, with rooms, University to deliver a presentation one tries to climb up the side of the and passes along the message that work on a volunteer basis, but boating, and summer fun. to a mixed audience of adults, bucket to get out and start his own “It’s okay to have confi dence”. are reimbursed for travel and Erik Elie, an Ojibway youth youth, Native and non-Native life, other crabs reach up and grab Gale George from Kettle and accommodations, and sometimes from Batchewana, says he always students and staff, including a him to bring him down. This is Stony Point is part of the traveling they earn an honorarium. feels the need to fi ght for fi rst busload from Wassen-Abin High often the response of down-home entourage. He does motivational Jordan Dokis, from the same place, noting “It’s okay to raise the School in Wikwemikong. community members to one of speaking part-time and works name First Nation, also loves the bar,” one of the main messages of They came as motivational their own who attempts to climb full time at Casino Rama. He traveling. He’s missing his family, Turtle Concept presentations. speakers to present the message out and move away from the “no- “Get Some Guts” -- if you want good-drunken-Indian” stereotype. to do good, or break the pattern Jones and his group of young of family violence and substance people are confi dent personalities abuse, be prepared to defend who share their stories with Oshki Pimache OWin Ed & Training Wiky Board of Ed. 6 x 8 Job posting 4 x 7.25 May 2007 Anishinabek News Page 19 CALLING ALL YOUNG ABORIGINAL WRITERS! THE 2007 CANADIAN ABORIGINAL WRITING CHALLENGE Education Win cash prizes, see your story published in The Beaver magazine and meet the governor general at a reception in Ottawa. If you are between the ages of 14-18 or 19-29, you can showcase your creativity and explore your heritage. The deadline for this year’s Aboriginal Writing Challenge is June 29, 2007. Our Story is a national storytelling initiative to educate Canadians about the defi ning moments in history that have shaped this country and its Aboriginal people. Visit www.our-story.ca or call 1-866-701-1867 for more information on how to submit a story.

Business student Sonja Rumpel, Serpent River First Nation, receives fi rst Anishinabek Nation Credit Union scholarship from ANCU general manager Allan Moffatt. Credit union helps students Gaggi Media SAULT STE. MARIE – The very fi rst recipient of a scholarship contributed by the Anishinabek Nation Credit Union is Sonja Rumpel, a fi rst-year business student at Sault College and a citizen Recreational Warning of Serpent River First Nation. “It is an honour to be recognized for my hard work, she said, after receiving the award from ANCU general manager Allan Moffatt. “It 6 x 7.5 has motivated me to further achieve my goal to continue with my studies at university.” Some 233 students received over $117,000 in academic prizes during the March 21st ceremony. The new ANCU scholarship will be awarded annually to an Aboriginal student enrolled in the college’s business program who demonstrates academic success, future growth potential in their chosen fi eld, or who is interested in continuing their education beyond college. “This bursary refl ects the credit union’s commitment to post- secondary education and to the next generation of business leaders”, said Moffatt. “We hope to expand our scholarship offerings next year by participating in similar events at other northern colleges such as Canadore or Cambrian in addition to our commitment to Sault College.” The Anishinabek Nation Credit Union is the fi rst on-reserve credit union ever to be granted a charter by the Province of Ontario. The leadership of the Union of Ontario Indians embarked upon the idea of creating their own fi nancial institution in 1994. The credit union offi ce on Garden River First Nation was opened in November, 2001, and has served over 1, 400 members, granted loans in excess of $5.7 million and has serviced deposits of $5.5 million For further information about the credit union, or to become a member, please contact the offi ce toll-free at 1-866-775-2628.

Day Advertising (York U) Recruitment Little Feather 6 x 5 Learning Products 4 x 4.5 Page 20 Anishinabek News May 2007

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