After Two Decades the MNO Is Still Making History

President’s highLights From the métis nAtion oF ontArio | sPeciAL insert 2012-2013 ANNUAL REPORT

Issue No. 77, FALL 2013

After two decades the MNO is still making history

2013 AgA celebrates past achievements while breaking new ground Story on page 15.

GREEN ENERGY A SUMMER OF MNO CANOEING CONTRACTS DISCOVERY VETERANS’ THE RIVER The MNO and its investment Again this year, MNO Métis COUNCIL CANARD partners are set to become a Summer Youth Cultural Program long-term owners of commercial- students connected with their “To educate, preserve and MNO Windsor-Essex Métis scale solar projects, earning roots and promoted Métis culture remember – MNO veterans Council members share Métis income over a 20-year period and heritage while also having a and youth tour national war history and culture and enjoy while helping generate clean great time! memorials. amazing scenery during an electricity across Ontario. excursion on the River Canard.

Page 3 Page 17 Page 28 Page 38 Métis Voyageur 2 Fall 2013, Issue no. 77

The Métis Voyageur Across Fall 2013, No. 77 THE HOMELAND Produced by the Métis Nation of Ontario Communications Branch: Alysha Akoodie sam Baynham mike Fedyk sAskAtchewAn marc st. germain British coLumBiA Stolen Métis Contributors: MNBC & Parks bell of Batoche Alysha Akoodie Canada working returned to sam Baynham k.d. Beckett together Saskatchewan nathalie Bertin in september, the métis Bell stolen 128 years ago mark Bowler nation of British columbia the longstanding mystery sur- cora Bunn (mnBc) signed an endorse- rounding the whereabouts of scott carpenter ment with Parks canada Bell of Batoche was unravelled Alvina cimon robert contois Powley Day in support of the jasper july 20, as the man who stole tera Lynn copegog Aboriginal cultural Area – it from an ontario Legion hall richard cuddy guidelines for traditional use. in 1991 came forward. Ashley davis Message mnBc represents one for Billyjo delaronde, a métis marsha depotier the Aboriginal communities man from manitoba, shared malcom dixon from President Lipinski that makes up the jasper Ab- Liliane ethier his story with thousands as original Forum that is working johnathon Falvo he gave the bell back to the closely with Parks canada. mike Fedyk th catholic diocese of Prince Larry Ferris 10 AnniVersArY oF the Parks canada and the Albert. Angel Fisher LAndmArk PowLeY decision members of the jasper jessica Lea Fleming cast in solid silver and the following message was issued september 19, 2013, Aboriginal Forum are work- kirk Fournier standing about 30 centimetres by mno President gary Lipinski. ing together to transform an donn Fowler tall, the bell is an important greg garratt, eight hectare section of land cultural relic of canada’s gervais family n September 19, 2003, these events will be posted on the in jasper national Park into métis. roger giroux after ten years of litiga- MNO website in the coming days. the jasper Aboriginal cultural reta gordon tion, the Supreme Court This fall, as you participate in Area. the site will provide the bell was seized from donna grayer O the church in Batoche as a marlene greenwood of Canada, in an unanimous judge- the harvest or in MNO community a space where Aboriginal kaitrina harrisson ment, declared that Steve and Roddy council events celebrating the harvest peoples can gather to recon- trophy of war by canadian nina henley Powley, members of the Sault Ste. season, I encourage you to take a mo- nect, celebrate, and share. troops who put down the jennifer henry Marie Métis community had the Mé- ment to refl ect on how the Powley this project will also ensure northwest resistance of duane hicks tis right to harvest and that this right decision has raised the profi le of the that the wildlife continues 1885. it was brought east Beth honsberger to fl ourish and traditional and eventually ended up in a Alis kennedy is protected under section 35 of The Métis, and contributed to the recog- practices continue for future royal canadian Legion hall in janine Landry Constitution Act, 1982. Because the nition of our rights as a distinct Ab- generations. millbrook, ontario. gary Lipinski Powleys had the courage of their original people within Canada. The glen Lipinski in 1991, it was stolen convictions, Métis rights were recog- affi rmation of the right to harvest is Source: MNBC Brianne madonna from the Legion by unknown sharon mcBride nized and affi rmed by the Supreme a component critical to the already conspirators and wasn›t seen Lois mccallum Court for the fi rst rich fabric that de- publicly until july 20, 2013. chris mcLeod time. fi nes Métis culture. Lucille nelson I encourage delaronde said he and four chris Paci Every year on It is fair to say métis accomplices travelled to joseph Paquette September 19, the you to take that in spite of a tre- millbrook on a “gentleman’s France Picotte Métis Nation of mendous amount dare,” determined to get the Brenda Powley Ontario (MNO) a moment to of hard work and relic back. (see related story melanie Prévost-Fortin ALBertA michelle Prévost-Fortin holds Powley reﬂ ect on how sacrifice of many on page 6) Peter rivers Day, to recognize Métis, our pursuit Métis Nation of Source: CBC News Saskatchewan jon rochon that the ground the Powley for full recognition Alberta receives hank rowlinson breaking Powley decision has... of Métis rights con- $250,000 for Loma rowlinson health monitoring storm russell decision ushered tinues. There is still devi shantilal in a whole new contributed to much work to be A $250,000 grant from the Paul smith era of Métis rights done with the prov- government of Alberta — as jennifer st. germain the recognition in Ontario and ince and especially well as an agreement to share marc st. germain of our rights... information — will enable the mAnitoBA theresa stenlund across the Métis with the Ministry of métis nation of Alberta (mnA) kathleen tardi Homeland. Espe- — MNO President Gary Lipinski Natural Resources to better monitor the health Land Claims james wagar cially important at (MNR) in ensuring wenda watteyne of métis living in Alberta. this Strategic tammy webb this time of the year, are the Métis the acceptance of those rights when work will be undertaken by a Investment doug wilson harvesting rights, which are now they are asserted. We will continue new public health surveillance Committee recognized by the Province of On- to push forward on the priority is- unit recently established by the months following Submissions: tario through our harvesting agree- sues that you have raised with your the mnA. the unit will work the landmark 2013 MMF ment. MNO citizens take time on Captains of the Hunt, your Provi- in collaboration with Alberta Mike Fedyk v. Canada ruling by the Director Of Communications Powley Day to refl ect on the pride sional Council of the MNO (PC- health and wellness. supreme court of canada métis nation of ontario that each of us feels when we look at MNO) representative or myself. this initiative will enable regarding a decades-long 500 old st. Patrick street, unit d land claim case, manatoba ottawa on k1n 9g4 what has been accomplished. We will continue to report progress information to be compiled [email protected] To recognize that 2013 marks the and movement as it occurs, however about thte types of health metis Federation (mmF) 10th anniversary of the landmark each of us must do all we can to en- issues and services being President david chartrand Next Deadline: nov. 1, 2013 Powley decision, the MNO is hold- sure that the collective rights of Mé- used by métis and to monitor put together a group of top canadian business leaders to Publication #: Pm 40025265 ing special commemorations in con- tis to harvest is preserved through health trends over time. the advise the mmF on all future junction with this year’s Louis Riel responsible management of the Mé- confi dentiality and privacy of participants will be protected business and development Submission Policy: Day ceremonies in Toronto on No- tis harvest in Ontario. The work mno encourages contributions at all times and Alberta health opportunities in anticipation from mno citizens and staff. All ahead of us is great and the journey vember 15. Part of this recognition and wellness will not disclose of the settlement of those submissions are edited to conform will include a seminar where I will will be long and hard fought. But to the canadian press style guide as personal information. claims. the group will advise well as for grammar, repetitiousness, be joined by a panel of distinguished on September 19, please take a mo- the mmF on how best to con- “this is an important tool spelling and to accurately refl ect the lawyers and scholars who will dis- ment to celebrate your Métis culture struct a Legacy Fund which offi cial names and titles of individuals, that can help us to improve organizations, bodies and agencies cuss the signifi cance of the Powley and heritage and to remember Steve, will support the aspirations of the health of métis Alber- referenced in submissions. the métis people for genera- case; past, present and future. It will Rodney and the Powley family for tans,” said Audrey Poitras, tions to come. excepting letters to the editor feature a screening of the fi nal ver- their personal sacrifice and com- President, métis nation of and submissions to the family and sion of The Métis Nation of Ontario: mitment to the ongoing struggle for members of the Land passages sections, submissions Alberta. “if a need or a con- should not be written in the fi rst 1993-2013, the documentary fi lm Métis rights. cern is identifi ed, we can take claims strategic investment person. submissions written in the about the history of the MNO that immediate steps to address committee include the right fi rst person will either be changed to the third person or not published. also highlights the Powley case. In the issue. it also enables us to honourable Paul martin, mr. addition there will be a celebratory proactively prevent illness and hartley richardson, mr. san- the recommended length for a ford riley, mr. harvey secter submission is between 400 and 600 feast where those who played im- promote wellness among our and dr. eric newell. words. submissions longer than that portant roles in the Powley case are Sincerely, members.” may be edited for length. recognized. More information about Gary Lipinski, President Source: Alberta.ca Source: MMF Métis Voyageur Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 3 nAtiOn MNO wins major green energy contracts

he Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO), together with its investment partners, announced on august 22 that it is set to become a long-term T owner of commercial-scale solar projects, earning income over a 20-year period while helping generate clean electricity across the province.

As Ontario’s clean energy econ- contracts. omy continues to grow the Ontario “One of the Métis Nation’s long- Power Authority (OPA) offered 951 term goals is to be able to generate new Small Feed-in Tariff (FIT) re- enough green energy for Ontario’s newable energy contracts. These electric system to meet the needs of contracts represent enough mega- every Métis household in the prov- watts to power more than 21,000 ince,” said MNO President Gary homes. OPA published a list of new Lipinski. “This announcement puts renewable ener- us on the path gy projects to be to achieving this offered contracts goal, while also in response to creating training the province’s opportunities, recent call for One of the jobs and wealth applications Métis Nation’s for Métis com- sized up to 500 munities in the Kilowatts (KW) long-term goals province.” each. This list is is to be able to “Ontario is available at www. committed to fi t.powerauthor- generate enough building a clean, ity.on.ca. green energy modern and re- MNO – liable electric-

BrightRoof Solar for Ontario’s ity grid,” said MNO President Gary Lipinski with Hon. Bob Chiarelli, Minister of Energy. Limited Partner- electric system Hon. Bob Chi- ship was formed arelli, Minister with the MNO,” said David Oxtoby, between MNO to meet the needs of Energy. “This a director of BrightRoof Solar LP, ontario Power Authority Solar Inc. and of every Métis partnership is a after the announcement.. “We look offered 951 new small BrightRoof So- significant op- forward to working together to en- Fit renewable energy lar. It will be of- household in portunity for the sure that the portfolio of solar assets contracts. these contracts fered contracts the province...” Métis Nation of is well designed, well-constructed represent enough green energy for for 36 FIT proj- Ontario to be- and well maintained over the 20- megawatts to power ects, with a com- — MNO President Gary Lipinski come active par- year operating life of the projects.” more than 21,000 homes. 21,000 bined generating ticipants in the “On behalf of the Métis Na- métis nation of ontario homes capacity of ap- province’s clean tion, I want to thank the Ontario - Brightroof solar LP, a proximately 8 energy future Government as well as our partner limited partnership formed MW AC. As well, the partnership while creating sustainable economic BrightRoof Solar LP for working between the mno solar has a minority interest in a series of development in their communities.” with us to enable the Métis to play inc. and Brightroof solar, projects, with a combined gener- “Today’s announcement marks an important role in building this will be offered contracts for ating capacity of approximately 7 the next step in what is already very province’s green energy economy,” 36 Fit projects. MW AC, which will be also offered strong and productive relationship concluded President Lipinski. ∞

Still going strong Congratulations to the Métis Nation of Ontario

The partners and professionals of Collins Barrow join the Métis Nation of Ontario in celebrating two decades of achievement. Our team works closely with you to develop optimal solutions to meet all your audit, tax and advisory needs. For clarity that counts, call Collins Barrow.

(Left to right) Minister Gravelle, President Lipinski, Lakehead University Presidentwww.collinsbarrow.com Brian Stevenson and Member of the Provincial Parliament Bill Mauro (pictures courtesy of Lakehead university). Métis Voyageur 4 Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 MNO hosts Children & Youth officials at Midland office ver the next 18 months, Prosen, Manager of Aboriginal Strat- the Métis Nation of On- egy Unit; and Ashley Collins, Senior Otario (MNO) will be Policy Advisor. Ministry of Children and Youth Services (MCYS) officials with MNO staff at the MNO Midland office. (Left working with the Ministry of Chil- The MNO presented the Ministry to right) Back row: Wenda Watteyne, MNO Director of Healing and Wellness; Jo-Anne Parent, MNO Regional dren and Youth Services (MCYS) on with an overview of MNO programs Employment & Training Coordinator; Lorraine Mountney, MNO Community Support Services Coordinator; the development of an Aboriginal and services provided through the Stephanie Prosen, MCYS Manager of Aboriginal Strategy Unit; Darryl Sturtevant, MCYS Assistant Deputy Children and Youth Strategy. As MNO Midland office. This included Minister of Strategic Policy & Planning Division; Tera Lynn Copegog, MNO Community Wellness; Debbie part of this partnership, represen- information in the areas of healing Ferris-Giammattolla, MNO Community Support Services/Aging at Home Coordinator; and Alden Barty, MNO tatives from the MCYS met with and wellness, education and train- Consultation Assessment Coordinator. Front row: Shirley Dorion, MNO Aging at Home; Jodi Blue, Healthy the MNO at the Midland office on ing and lands, resources and con- Weights Connections Coordinator; Tracy Bald, Community Wellness; Mary Mackie, MNO Métis Healthy Babies July 17, 2013 for an overview of sultations. Presentations featured Healthy Children; MNO Senator Audrey Vallee; and Ashley Collins, MCYS Senior Policy Advisor. community projects and programs perspectives from MNO front-line in the area. staff; this was followed by an open MNO management in attendance dialogue with the Assistant Deputy were: Doug Wilson, Chief Operating Minister. Officer; Wenda Watteyne, Director Ministry representative were of Healing and Wellness; Jennifer also introduced to Métis culture St. Germain, Director of Education and heritage. MNO Summer Cul- and Training; and Scott Carpenter, tural Students Alexandra Dusome, Manager of Projects and Partner- Katelyn LaCroix and Justin Blondin ships. MNO Senator Audrey Vallee facilitated a beading circle, finger and Provisional Council of the MNO weaving lessons, live fiddle music (PCMNO) Region Seven Councillor and jigging lessons. Everyone en- Pauline Saulnier were also in atten- joyed a traditional Métis feast. dance. The MNO would like to thank Ministry representatives includ- the Ministry and the Government ed: Darryl Sturtevant, Assistant of Ontario for partnering with the Deputy Minister of Strategic Policy MNO in the development of a multi- & Planning Division; Stephanie year Children and Youth Strategy. ∞

MNO well represented at Métis & Urban Aboriginal Leadership Roundtable Focus on Aboriginal Child & Youth Strategy Mutual understanding, respect, trust.

(left to right) The Hon. Teresa Piruzza, Minister of Children and Youth Services; Sheila McMahon, Ontario Federation of Indian Friendship Centres; MNO President Gary Lipinski; Dr. Dawn Harvard, Ontario Native Women’s Association; and the Hon. David Zimmer, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs.

n June 10, Métis Nation of Ontario son, Director of Healing and Wellness Wenda (MNO) President Gary Lipinski Watteyne and Healing and Wellness Manager Oand Chair France Picotte repre- Shelly Gonneville were also in attendance. sented the MNO at the Métis and Urban Along with the MNO, Aboriginal partners Aboriginal Leadership Roundtable in To- represented were the Ontario Federation of ronto with the Honourable Teresa Piruzza, Indian Friendship Centres and the Ontario Minister of Children and Youth Services and Native Women’s Association. the Honourable David Zimmer, Minister of Outcomes of the meeting included en- Aboriginal Affairs. dorsement of the proposed 18-month en- The purpose of the meeting was to launch gagement approach on developing an Ab- discussions with Métis and Urban Aboriginal original Children and Youth Strategy in leaders regarding the creation of an Aborigi- Ontario. Aboriginal partners expressed a nal Children and Youth Strategy. desire to have a formal written commitment The meeting presented an opportunity by the Ministers on the development and for Minister Piruzza and Minister Zimmer implementation beyond the 18 months on to hear about key priorities from Aboriginal an Aboriginal Children and Youth Strategy to partners. advance opportunities for Métis, First Nation MNO Chief Operating Officer Doug ilW - and Inuit in Ontario. ∞ Métis Voyageur Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 5

cAnAdiAn PuBLic heALth AssociAtion AnnuAL conFerence MNO demonstrates leadership at national health conference current knowledge of Métis public with the MNO citizenship Registry rom june 10-11, métis health issues. data. nation of ontario Along with the workshop, two While the public health chal- F (mno) staff made presentations were held on differ- lenges among Indigenous popula- three presentations on mno’s ent aspects of CDSP by MNO staff tions in Canada are widely recog- ground-breaking chronic disease Russell and Allard. nized there are important gaps in surveillance Project (cdsP) at Russell presented MNO’s re- the current knowledge of how best the 2013 canadian Public health search on mental health related ill- to design and implement public Association (cPhA) Annual nesses among Ontario Métis entitled health research and interventions to conference in ottawa. Mental Illness and Addictions in the maximize their effectiveness in im- MNO CPHA workshop panel members (left to right) Storm Russell, Métis Population of Ontario. In this proving public health outcomes in Wenda Watteyne, David Henry, Clare Atzema, Saba khan, Martin Cooke MNO representatives were among presentation, she provided an over- Métis, First Nations and Inuit popu- and Yvon Allard. 900 delegates from health bodies view of the project as well as the lations. This is especially true of Mé- from across Canada attending fi ndings thus far. tis populations where the data are By making CPHA delegates more this prestigious conference. It signifi cantly lacking, largely because aware of the issues facing Métis and was important that the MNO had Métis cultural identity information of the MNO’s leading role in ad- a strong presence at the CPHA is not routinely collected in popula- dressing these issues, it is hoped conference because all the key tion and public health research, de- the decision makers will provide decision makers and stakeholders MNO’s research spite the large and growing numbers additional and new supports for the in Canadian public health of Métis in Canada. MNO in its efforts to improve the attended the event. The MNO’s in this fi eld is MNO’s research in this fi eld health of Métis goals were to increase awareness critical for fi rst is critical for fi rst steps to people. ∞ of the health issues encountered further understanding by Métis and demonstrate that steps to further the underlying issues the MNO is the leader in seeking affecting the Métis understanding research focused on solutions to address these issues. the underlying people in Ontario. The MNO was able to present at The findings will As part of the CPHA the conference because a strong issues affecting be useful in allow- Conference, MNO Senator Lois proposal submitted by MNO staff the Métis people ing the MNO to de- 14,000 McCallum starts off the MNO demonstrated the value of the termine the health MÉTIS CITIZENS presentation “Understanding in ontario MNO’s work in CDSP. in Ontario. priorities of Métis and Enhancing Métis Public A first of its kind in Ontario, people in Ontario as Health Using Participatory Action CDSP is a health surveillance initia- well as to develop and Research” by reciting the MNO tive being spearheaded by the MNO Allard presented MNO’s research deliver health programs Statement of Prime Purpose. that focuses on gathering Métis spe- entitled Burden of Chronic Respira- tailored to their cifi c data on health and health care, tory Disease in the Métis Population specific To view the research fi ndings specifi cally in the area of chronic in Ontario. This landmark research needs. or for more information visit: disease. Part of the project includes represents the fi rst population based The research focused http://bit.ly/17jVj7f population based studies to deter- study of respiratory disease among on rates of adult asthma, mine the rate of chronic disease in Métis of Ontario. The research fo- chronic obstructive pulmonary Métis people in Ontario as well as cused on rates of adult asthma, disease (COPD) and lung cancer in outcomes from healthcare. chronic obstructive pulmonary approximately 14,000 Métis citizens The MNO was approached by disease (COPD) and lung cancer in in Ontario by linking health related data the Public Health Association of approximately 14,000 Métis citizens from four provincial databases with the Canada to conduct this Métis spe- in Ontario by linking health related MNO Citizenship Registry data. cifi c research due to MNO’s repu- data from four provincial databases table Registry. The studies are in partnership with the Public Health Association of Canada (funders); the Institute for Clinical Evalua- tive Sciences (ICES), a government supported scientifi c research institute dedicated to understanding ill- th ness rates and treatment outcomes; TD celebrates the 20 the University of Toronto; and the University of Waterloo. anniversary of the MNO Panel members included MNO Director of Healing and Wellness Annual General Assembly Wenda Watteyne, MNO Senior Policy and Research Analyst Storm J. Russell, MNO CDSP Research Coordinator Yvon Allard; Saba Whether it’s help with your Khan of ICES; David Henry of ICES; Martin Cooke of the Univer- personal banking or more sity of Waterloo; and Clare Atzema of Sunnybrook Health Sciences complex Aboriginal trust and Centre. lending advice – we are The workshop, based on the method of collection and ap- here to help. proaches for CDSP, provided participants with applied knowledge and skills to support more effec- tive public health research and interventions with ‘at risk’ Métis populations, using ‘best practice’ research examples that are contributing substantially to building the M04198 (0610) Métis Voyageur 6 Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 President Lipinski Métis to appeal attends MNBC harvesting case Annual General Ten years after landmark Meeting Photo credit: Angel Fisher Powley decision Alberta rom September 28-30, the One of the highlights of meet- Métis Nation of British Co- ing was the first ringing of the Métis still “hunt for justice” Flumbia (MNBC) held their Marie Antoinette “the Bell of 16th Annual General Meeting in Batoche” in British Columbia. Richmond, British Columbia. MNBC Regional Director Mari- n July 4 the Alberta Court of Appeal much of central Alberta and all of As is tradition, Métis Nation lynn Taylor, a direct descendant refused to overturn the conviction of southern Alberta. of Ontario (MNO) President Gary of the Caron’s and Fayant’s of Ba- Métis harvester Garry Hirsekorn for In August 2007, Alberta Métis Lipinski was among the invited toche was selected to be the first huntingO in the Cypress Hills in 2007. The case rejected Ted Morton’s policy and dignities that attended and pro- Métis citizen in British Columbia unanimously passed their own vided welcoming remarks. to ring Marie. ∞ R. v. Hirsekorn is a harvesting rights “test case” Métis harvesting rights action plan for Alberta Métis as a part of the Métis Nation and harvesting policy. Métis com- of Alberta’s (“MNA”) ongoing “hunt for justice” munity hunts were organized and in the courts. held across Alberta in the Fall of 2007. The current trial involves NA President Audrey vious Klein Government executed a Métis harvester who participated Poitras stated, “While the IMHA with the Métis Nation of in those community hunts (Garry Mwe are disappointed Alberta in order to implement the Hirsekorn) in southeastern Al- with today’s decision, we are Supreme Court of Canada’s decision berta. not deterred. Similar to the in R. v. Powley in Alberta. The IMHA This trial in southeastern Alberta Manitoba Metis Federation remained in place for over 2 ½ years is to act as a “test case” for the entire land claim case, which suffered until Ted Morton, then Minister for province, since there are over 25 oth- multiple losses in the Manitoba Sustainable Resource Development, er Métis harvesters charged across the courts but was ultimately cancelled the IMHA and implement- province and Métis continue to reject successful before the Supreme ed a unilateral and regressive policy Alberta’s current harvesting policy. Court of Canada, we believe that denies Métis harvesting rights in The issues raised in the appeal will we will ultimately have our also determine whether Alberta’s cur- constitutional rights recognized rent policy and interpretation of the and affirmed.” Powley case is correct. “Our people are committed to Our people In this test case, Mr. Hirsekorn seeing this case through to the is arguing that there is a historic MNBC Annual General Meeting delegates with the Bell of Batoche. end, so we have now instructed are committed rights-bearing Métis community (Left to right) MNO President Gary Lipinski, “Keeper of the Bell” our lawyers to ask the Supreme called the Métis of the Northwest Billyjo Delaronde, MNA Vice President Toby Racette, MNBC citizen Court of Canada to hear this case to seeing this and that he is a member of a mod- Sadie Lukan, MNA President Audrey Poitras, MNBC President Bruce that is important to the entire Mé- ern day Métis community that spans Dumont, and North Island Métis Nation Community President Michael tis Nation. It’s also timely that on case through southern and central Alberta and Dumont. the ten year anniversary of the Su- to the end... extends into northern Alberta and preme Court of Canada’s release other parts of the modern day Métis MNO President of the landmark Powley decision, this case that Nation, which is the continuation Lipinski providing the Métis Nation will be back be- of the Métis of the Northwest. Mr. MNBC President fore the highest court of the land is important to Hirsekorn asserts this contemporary Bruce Dumont with asking for the promise of s. 35 Métis community possesses food the gift of a MNO of the Constitution Act, 1982 to be the entire Métis harvesting rights that are protected Hudson Bay blanket given meaning for Métis on the by s. 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982. after providing Prairies,” said President Poitras. Nation...” Additional information is avail- welcoming remarks MNA Legal Counsel Jason able at www.albertametis.com. See at the MNBC AGM. Madden said, “We don’t believe — MNA President Audrey Poitras a related story on page 10. ∞ this Alberta decision can be rec- HON_Metis Nation Ad 2013_HON_Metis Nation Ad 8 x 5 13-08-21 8:49 AM Page 1 onciled with how the Powley case has been applied in other jurisdictions such as Manitoba and Saskatchewan. We believe the Supreme Court of Canada needs Working together to address the perverse way in which the Alberta courts have to build a essentially used the Powley test against the Métis on the Prairies.” powerful future Madden added, “The Court of Appeal’s decision that the most Hydro One is proud well-known face of the Métis Na- tion, the Métis buffalo hunters of to sponsor the the Plains, don’t have harvesting Métis Nation of Ontario rights on those Plains undermines the promise of s. 35 of the Consti- Annual General Assembly. tution Act, 1982 to the Métis. We believe this is case of significant importance in the development of Métis jurisprudence.”

Backgrounder on Hirsekorn Case

R. v. Hirsekorn is the result of the Alberta Government’s cancella- tion of the Interim Métis Harvesting Agreement (IMHA) in July 2007. In September 2004, the pre- www.HydroOne.com Partners in Powerful Communities Métis Voyageur Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 7 MNO leaders predict new northern law school will advance Métis people and communities

he Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) is one of the partners in Ontario’s first T new Faculty of Law in 44 years that officially opened its doors September 4 at Thunder Bay’s Lakehead University.

MNO President Gary Lipinski, MNO Secretary-Treasurer Tim Pile (who also serves on the Lakehead University Board of Governors) and The new law Senator Bob McKay were among school is exciting the dignitaries present that also included Premier Kathleen Wynne, news for Métis Minister of Northern Development people and and Mines Michael Gravelle and Member of the Provincial Parlia- communities,it ment of Thunder Bay-Atikokan Bill will mean new Mauro. The new law school was launched with a large ribbon cut- opportunities for ting ceremony at Lakehead’s Port Métis and other Arthur Collegiate Institute (PACI), home to the University’s newest Aboriginal young Faculty, in front of an audience that people” included the school’s first cohort of 60 students. President Lipinski — President Lipinski was among the guests who brought greetings during the ceremony. The new law school will serve The MNO’s partnership with the the communities in Northern On- Lakehead University Faculty of Law MNO President Lipinski participating in opening of new Faculty of Law at Lakehead University. (Left to right) tario and smaller centres throughout is another example of the success Natural Resources Minister Michael Gravelle, President Lipinski, Premier Kathleen Wynne, Ontario Regional Canada and will focus on Aboriginal of the MNO-Ontario Framework Chief Stan Beardy. law and understanding Aboriginal Agreement and the subsequent issues, the needs of small practitio- Memorandum of Understanding ners and natural resources law. between the MNO and the Minis- “The new law school is exciting try of Colleges, Training and Uni- Law. The MTCU fully funded the news for Métis people and commu- versities. “The MOU the MNO Faculty of Law with a $1.5 million nities,” stated President Lipinski, and Lakehead University signed in investment for capital improvements “it will mean new opportunities for 2011,” explained President Lipinski, made to the historic PACI building Métis and other Aboriginal young “was possible due to the Framework in Thunder Bay where the Faculty people that will break down some Agreement and laid the groundwork of Law is housed. “The Province of of the obstacles they face when pur- to the MNO’s involvement in the Ontario is making a good invest- suing post-secondary education. It new Faculty of Law.” ment in this law school,” concluded means Métis youth will have more In July 2011, Ontario’s Ministry President Lipinski, “one that will chances to become lawyers and Mé- of Training, Colleges and Universi- pay dividends long into the future (Left to right) Minister Gravelle, President Lipinski, Lakehead University tis lawyers will be able to serve their ties (MTCU) committed to support by realizing enormous positive in- President Brian Stevenson and Member of the Provincial Parliament Bill communities.” Lakehead University’s Faculty of tergenerational effects.” ∞ Mauro (pictures courtesy of Lakehead University).

President Lipinski meets with Minister of Training, Colleges & Universities

n May 30, 2013, Métis was signed in 2008 and Minister Nation of Ontario (MNO) Duguid indicated that the govern- OPresident Gary Lipin- ment is committed to renewing the ski had a cordial and productive agreement and continuing the posi- It is very meeting with the Honourable Brad tive working relationship with the Duguid, the Minister of Training, MNO that was established with the important that

Colleges and Universities in the Agreement. we provide every MNO President Lipinski with the Honourable Brad Duguid, Minister of government of Premier Kathleen In the meeting, President Lipin- Training, Colleges and Universities on May 30. Wynne. ski updated Minister Duguid on opportunity for Minister Duguid is very familiar the strength of the MNO’s current young Métis to stressed that in light of statistics that the MNO’s children and youth priority with the MNO having previously employment and training delivery show that the Métis population in that has been a major focus of MNO served as Minister of Aboriginal structure and the MNO’s success become all they the province is continuing to grow, it efforts since the 2012 Annual General Affairs, and during his tenure in in delivering job training that is can be.” is increasingly important the MNO Assembly. “It is very important,” stated that position he signed the historic having positive impacts on both receive funds and support to build President Lipinski, “that we provide MNO-Ontario Framework Agree- Métis people and the overall On- — President Lipinski on its successes. every opportunity for young Métis to ment. The Framework Agreement tario economy. President Lipinski President Lipinski also explained become all they can be.” ∞ Métis Voyageur 8 Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 mno And rAinY riVer resources sign mou Relationship-building key for Duty to Consult Lake Consultation Committee. Through this CAUTioNARY (TORONTO, July 10, 2013) - the métis nation of ontario (“mno”) MOU, the MNO will continue to strengthen NoTe ReGARDiNG and rainy river resources Ltd. (“rainy river” or the “company” (rr. its relationship with Rainy River while pro- FoRwARD-LookiNG tecting our traditional values and way of life.” STATeMeNTS tsx)) are pleased to announce that they have signed a memoran- Subject to the project impacts on Métis dum of understanding (“mou”) to guide their working relationship This release includes certain state- rights and interests (if identifi ed through the ments that may be deemed to be in regard to the development of the rainy river gold Project in the consultation process), the parties also agreed “forward-looking statements”. All township of chapple, approximately 65 kilometers northwest of Fort to negotiate an Impact Benefi t Agreement statements in this release, other Frances, ontario. (“IBA”) based on the goals and objectives of than statements of historical facts, the MOU. that address events or developments that management of the “The MNO is pleased with the positive of Ontario. We thank the MNO for working Company expects, are forward-look- relationship-building efforts that Rainy River in collaboration and consultation with us to ABout rAinY riVer ing statements. These statements has demonstrated by signing this agreement,” develop this strong foundation for continued include the possible conversion of stated MNO President Gary partnership.” Rainy River Resources Ltd. is a Canadian inferred resources into higher con- Lipinski. “We developed The MOU lays out the precious metals exploration company whose fidence categories of resources. this MOU collaboratively way in which the local Mé- key asset is the Rainy River Gold Project, Although management believes to guide engagement and We thank the tis community, as repre- a large gold system centred in Richardson the expectations expressed in such consultation with the resented by the MNO’s Treaty Township (part of Chapple Township). As forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, gional rights-bearing Métis Métis Nation #3/Lake of the Woods/Lac at March 31, 2013, the Company had ap- such statements are not guarantees communities in the Treaty Seul/Rainy River/Rainy Lake proximately $90 million in cash and cash of Ontario for of future performance, and actual Regional Consultation Com- #3/Lake of the Woods/Lac working in equivalents, and it remains well funded for its results or developments may differ Seul/Rainy River/Rainy Lake mittee and the MNO Com- ongoing activities, including: 1) commence- materially from those in the forward- traditional territories. I am collaboration and munity Councils that are ment of basic and detailed engineering work looking statements. The Company pleased that the MNO was part of the committee, will and ongoing permitting and environmental undertakes no obligation to update able to foster a strong foun- consultation with be consulted regarding the assessment work; 2) continuing to grow the these forward-looking statements if dation upon which consul- us to develop this development of the project. existing resource through exploration; 3) con- management’s beliefs, estimates or tation and accommodation It also provides details about ducting a condemnation program in areas opinions, or other factors, should can take place with Rainy strong foundation how the parties will work identifi ed for potential mine facilities. RRGP change. Factors that could cause River and I applaud Rainy together to address potential is very well located in Northwestern Ontario. actual results to differ materially for continued from those in forward-looking state- River’s efforts in working impacts on Métis’ rights, in- It is accessed by a network of roads and is ments, include market prices, explo- with the Métis Nation. This partnership.” terests and way of life. close to hydro-electric infrastructure. The ration and development successes, initial agreement represents MNO Regional Council- Rainy River district has a skilled labour force continued availability of capital and a milestone in our continu- — Raymond Threlkeld, President or Theresa Stenlund, Chair and is one of the lowest-cost areas for min- fi nancing, and general economic, ing working relationship and CEO of Rainy River of the Region One Con- eral exploration and development in Canada. market or business conditions. with the Company.” Resources Ltd. sultation Committee com- Ontario has low political risk and, according Please see the public fi lings of the Raymond Threlkeld, mented: “Our regional Métis to the annual Fraser Institute global survey of Company at www.sedar.com for fur- President and CEO of Rainy River Resources community would like to acknowledge Rainy the mining industry, has consistently ranked ther information. Ltd. added: “We are delighted to have reached River Resources in working with the Treaty #3/ as one of the top jurisdictions embracing this milestone agreement with the Métis Nation Lake of the Woods/Lac Seul/Rainy River/Rainy mineral development. ∞ Métis Voyageur Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 9

MNO Consultation Committees touring proposed site for new OPG project. (Left to right) Region 2 Captain of the Hunt ken Simard, William “Torch” Gordon, MNO staff member kevin Muloin, Heather Brown, PCMNO Region 2 Councillor Cameron Burgess, Gerry Adams, MNO Thunder Bay Métis Council President Jean ToRoNTo 2015 Camirand, MNO Superior North Shore Métis Council President Trent Desaulnier and Joe Heil. Games mno signs Agreement MNO Consultation with orgAnizers he métis nation of ontario (mno) and the toronto Committee tours 2015 Pan Am/Parapan Am games organizing committee (to2015) have signed a memorandum of understanding (mou) regarding métis participation in the largest multi- proposed OPG Hydro sportT games canada has ever hosted. the mou outlines how the mno and its citizens will participate and be recognized in the games, including: appropriate dignitary recognition, access to economic development opportunities and in- Electric project volvement in torch relays and the toronto 2015 Arts and culture submitted by: James Wagar, icoten Consultation Committees, along with Métis Festival, presented by ciBc. MNO Consultation Assessment Coordinator knowledge holders and Métis commercial fi sherman, “we’re delighted to work with the métis nation of ontario and its leadership to ensure our games are inclusive and respectful of toured the Ontario Power Generation (OPG) pro- the Métis people,” said Ian Troop, TO2015 Chief Executive Offi cer. uilding relationships with proponents requires posed site for the Little Jackfi sh River Hydro Electric “mno President gary Lipinski and the métis nation have been ongoing work and learning about the com- project. tremendously supportive of our efforts since we fi rst met at the 2011 panies that MNO partners with. Part of this The committees work in collaboration with MNO Pan Am/Parapan Am games in guadalajara.” B mno President gary Lipinski added: “the métis people of on- important work is made possible by Métis Nation of staff to ensure inclusive, transparent and meaningful tario look forward to welcoming athletes and other visitors from the Ontario (MNO) Consultation Committees. Métis consultation and accommodation processes Americas and the caribbean to the games and sharing our unique Recently, the MNO Lakehead/Nipigon/Michip- are in place. ∞ history and culture with them. the toronto 2015 Pan Am/Parapan Am games are a once-in-lifetime opportunity for all of us here in ontario to come together, celebrate and share our diversity, culture and dreams.” In January 2012, TO2015 offi cially launched its 14 Aboriginal Leadership Partners, drawn from the games’ host region, which includes the mno. the group, which is comprised of key Aboriginal leaders, commu- Appointment of new nities and organizations, will drive planning, engagement and communications efforts between to2015 and the Aboriginal community to deliver successful games. the partners will create an engagement strategy for economic development, volunteer recruitment, arts and Veterans’ Senator culture, as well as youth engagement. to2015 is also pursuing similar mous with the six nations of the submitted by: Joseph Paquette, grand river and the mississaugas of new credit First nation. President of the MNO Veterans’ Council “we are pleased to see the métis nation of ontario and the toronto 2015 Pan Am/Parapan Am games organizing committee working together to ensure that the métis and First nations peoples he métis nation of ontario (mno) are playing key roles in the ‘People’s games’,” said the honourable Veterans’ council executive has Bal gosal, minister of state (sport). “As ontario prepares to welcome athletes and spectators from t appointed dr. Alis kennedy cd, the Americas and caribbean for the 2015 Pan/Parapan American omc, to the position of Veterans’ senator. games, it is essential that Aboriginal peoples and their culture are celebrated and showcased as ontario hosts this once-in-a-lifetime Veteran, Senator Dr. Kennedy brings a wealth of event,” said michael chan, ontario minister responsible for the 2015 Pan and Parapan American games. experience to the council. She has served as a MNO Senator for the MNO Credit River Métis Council and the MNO Toronto and York Region Métis Coun- About TO2015 cil for several years. Being very active in her home the wworganizing committee (to2015) is tasked with the responsibility of planning, managing and delivering the games. its community of Toronto, she also sits on several local, mission is to ignite the spirit through a celebration of sport and cul- provincial and national committees and is a member ture. the toronto 2015 Pan American games will take place july of a local branch of the Royal Canadian Legion. 10−26 and the Parapan American Games August 7–14. The swearing in ceremony took place at the MNO the 2015 games are funded by the government of canada, the Veterans’ Council meeting held in Ajax on June 30, Province of ontario, as well as other partners and sponsors. ciBc is the lead partner of the games. 2013. For more information about the games, please visit toron- The MNO Veterans’ Council welcomes Senator, Swearing in Ceremony of new Veterans’ Senator. to2015.org Veteran Dr. Kennedy CD, OMC, to her new position (Left to right) MNO Veterans’ Senator Dr. Alis with the Métis Nation of Ontario Veterans Council. ∞ kennedy, CD, OMC and President Joseph Paquette. Métis Voyageur 10 Fall 2013, Issue no. 77

MNO Infinite Reach facilitators, MNO staff and MNO community members at the University of Ottawa. (Left to right) front row: Wanda Botsford, MNO Education Officer; Chantal Cote, MNO Educational Analyst/Officer; Sahra Maclean, Carleton University; Brianne Gosselin, Hearst University; Tegan Mandeville, Loyalist College; Senator Lois McCallum; and Senator Roland St. Germain. Second row: Sheila Grantham, MNO Education Officer; Nikki Doucette, Sault College; Christine Skura, Ryerson University; Alicia Blore, University of Waterloo; Marie-Louise Lariviere, Wilfrid Laurier University; Kian Connor, Laurentian University. Third row: Mitch Case, Algoma/Shingwauk University; Katelyn Lacroix, Wilfrid Laurier University; Jesse LaFleur, Seneca College; Jessica Maclean, University of Toronto; Kailyn Wilson, Lakehead University; and Melody Chislett-Morris, Sault College. Back row: Mathew Lafreniere, University of Ottawa; Elijah Cardarette, St. Clair College; Brad Lafortune, University of Ottawa; Tera Beaulieu, University of Toronto; Kevin King, University of Guelph; and Jesse Donovan, University of Toronto. Back to school Métis style Infinite Reach Facilitators, Brad Lafortune who added a rom September 13-15, Métis post-secondary facilitator perspective to the tour. MNO staff, some local students from across the province assembled Métis youth and Senators Lois McCallum and Roland Fin Ottawa for the Métis Nation of Ontario St. Germain also attended the orientation. he MNO Infinite Reach work to create and maintain a sense (MNO) Infinite Reach Facilitator orientation session. Cultural activities and a feast were enjoyed on the program is comprised of of community among Métis stu- Saturday evening. Jaime Koebe provided a jigging Tincoming and upper year dents. Throughout the year Infinite New and returning Infinite Reach Facilitators were workshop and Alicia Blore played traditional Métis postsecondary students who have Reach facilitators will host/facilitate given a three-day orientation session to familiarize them- fiddle music. Some of the youth in attendance had the common goal of working cultural and informative events to selves with the MNO, the MNO Infinite Reach Program, participated in the MNO Summer Youth Cultural Pro- together to enrich and enhance connect students to the local Métis go over the facilitator manual, code of conduct and tips gram from this past summer and showcased their their postsecondary education Nation of Ontario community coun- experience. Members form a com- cils and to the various programs, to prepare themselves for the new fall semester at their dancing skills and shared their experience in the pro- munity of Métis learners within their services and events of the MNO. respective institutions. gram with the other students. The feast was a great college or university and support The MNO Infinite Reach: Métis Stu- As part of the orientation, students were given tours bonding experience for the students as well as a great each other in their academic pur- dent Solidarity Network will serve of the three Ottawa post-secondary institutions: Car- opportunity for new facilitators to meet and chat with suits. Infinite Reach facilitators are as a community of learners with leton University, Algonquin College and the University senior facilitators. upper year students who can offer the ability to inspire Métis students of Ottawa. Each school provided a representative who To thank them for their time as volunteers, students assistance to incoming students by to achieve their full potential and guided the tour and shared the different services pro- were given MNO swag which included a MNO travel helping them adjust to university provide the support of the Métis vided to Aboriginal students. The tour of the University bag, a MNO Infinite Reach Network shirt, a stapler, life. Infinite Reach facilitators also community. of Ottawa was provided by one of the schools MNO pen and MNO padfiolio.

Powley Test ‘Incomprehensible and Inaccessible’ to prairie Métis Residential Schools Alberta Métis ask Supreme The Métis National Council’s StatemeNt ancouver, BC – (September 22, 2013) With the second Court to hear harvesting last national event of the The Truth and Reconciliation VCommission (TRC) now concluded, and the last one being rights test case scheduled for March 2014 in Alberta, Métis National Council (MNC) President Chartier calls upon the federal government to reconsider (See related story on page 6) Act, 1982 to the prairie Métis? prairie Métis being incomprehen- its position with respect to Métis boarding/residential schools and dmonton, AB (September Since 2003, courts of the prairies sible and inaccessible to our people include such excluded schools in the reconciliation process. 30, 2013) – Ten years to the have struggled to apply the Pow- on-the-ground. We believe guid- Emonth after the Supreme ley test to the prairie Métis. Notably, ance from the Supreme Court is Court of Canada released its land- in Mr. Hirsekorn’s case, each level of needed to avoid injustice,” added “If the federal government con- “The work of the TRC is both mark decision on Métis harvesting court in Alberta re-interpreted and President Poitras. tinues to exclude Métis residential important and critical to the evolv- rights in R. v. Powley, Alberta Métis re-applied the Powley test differently Jason Madden, Legal Counsel schools from the reconciliation ing relationship between Aborigi- are asking the high court to once than the court below. This legal un- for Mr. Hirsekorn and the MNA, process including the govern- nal peoples and Canada” stated again turn its attention to the issue certainty is compounded by con- added, “It’s perverse that the test ment’s apology and settlement President Chartier, re-affirming of Métis harvesting rights. This time flicting court decisions in Manitoba, the Supreme Court established to agreement, a stain will remain in that “in the case of the Métis Nation the test case R. v. Hirsekorn is about Saskatchewan and Alberta that can- ‘recognize and affirm’ the rights of its efforts to correct its past racist and the exclusion of Métis residen- how to apply the Supreme Court’s not be reconciled. In one situation, different Métis groups is now being assimilation efforts” stated Presi- tial schools, the TRC must be ex- test in Powley to the descendants of a Métis fishing right is recognized used to deny the rights of one of the dent Chartier, concluding that “if tremely vigilant in its conclusions the well-known Métis buffalo hunt- by the Manitoba courts and the best-known faces of the Métis Na- all Aboriginal peoples are not in- that this issue must be addressed ers of the plains. Manitoba government on one side tion in Canada the descendants of cluded in the reconciliation initia- head-on, with a direct statement The Powley case dealt with the of a lake, with a Saskatchewan court the buffalo hunters of the plains but tive, then it will ultimately remain that such residential schools were Sault Ste Marie Métis community denying any Métis fishing right on the prairie courts are saying Pow- as incomplete and exclusionary”. excluded, and that the federal gov- on the Upper Great Lakes, who the west side of the same lake. ley ‘ties their hands.’” President Chartier also calls ernment must work positively to largely lived at the same settlement Métis Nation of Alberta (MNA) “We believe the Supreme Court upon the Truth and Reconcilia- rectify this exclusion”. and hunted in the environs of that President Audrey Poitras said, “Our will want to provide clarity and guid- tion Commission to carefully craft While attending parts of the location. The Hirsekorn case deals people do not believe that the rec- ance on this important legal issue its final report to ensure that it TRC event in Vancouver, President with the Métis buffalo hunters who ognition of our harvesting rights in order to ensure the promise of s. does not inadvertently leave the Chartier also noted the need for maintained a nomadic lifestyle fol- should be dependent on political 35 to the largest Métis population in impression that Métis residential sustained work with those former lowing a migratory herd across the whim or whether we are before a Canada the prairie Métis is not ren- schools were part of the reconcili- students covered by the settlement prairies and who rarely or never re- judge that decides to apply thePow- dered meaningless courts by rigidity ation effort under their mandate, agreement and mandate of the turning to an established settlement. ley test in a flexible manner.” of form triumphing over substance.” while at the same time making TRC and calls upon the federal The key question in the case is: does “Constitutional rights should not Additional information and a note that a small number of Métis government to continue its sup- the Powley test need to be modified be dealt with in such an arbitrary copy of the Application for Leave were fortunate to have attended an port for the Aboriginal Healing or is it flexible enough to fulfill the manner. The current situation re- to Appeal in the Hirsekorn case is Indian residential school and were Foundation, the Healing Centres promise of s. 35 of the Constitution sults in the promise of s. 35 to the available at www.albertametis.com. therefore included in the process. and the TRC itself. Métis Voyageur Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 11 Welcome Aboard MEET THE NEWEST MEMBERS OF THE MNO TEAM

01 02 03 04 05 06 07

01: WANDA BOTSFORD STEWART BROWN 05: AUDREY BAYLISS submitted by: Jennifer St. Germain, submitted by: Mark Bowler, submitted by: Wenda Watteyne, Director of Education and Training Director of Lands, Resources and Consultation Director of Healing and Wellness

he Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) is pleased he Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) is pleased udrey Bayliss joins the MNO as a Community to welcome Wanda Botsford to the Fort Frances to announce that Stewart Brown has joined the Wellness Coordinator working out of the MNO TMNO offi ce in the position of Education Offi cer. TMNO Lands, Resources and Consultation Branch Aoffi ce in Windsor. Wanda has been very active with the MNO Sunset as Bruce Power Liaison Coordinator based out of the Audrey come to us from the Welcome Centre Shelter Country Métis Council in Fort Frances where she gener- MNO Owen Sound Offi ce. Stewart comes to the MNO for Women and also volunteers at the Distress Centre of ated great enthusiasm for Council projects and activities. after a thirty year career in secondary and post-secondary Windsor-Essex. In her new position she will focus on K-12 education. education including classroom teaching, program devel- Audrey has a Bachelor of Social Work degree from the She has a passion for telling stories about Métis ances- opment, and liaising with community partners in coop- University of Windsor. She is experienced dealing with tors and reinvigorating Métis culture, closing learning erative education. He has also worked on-site at Bruce crisis situations and providing support to those in need gaps, creating positive school environments and building Power as High School Cooperative Education coordinator partnerships. for the local boards of education for two years. 06: CARLA CSORI

02: SCOTT FRANCE CHERYL MOROZ submitted by: Wenda Watteyne, Director of Healing and Wellness submitted by: Jennifer St. Germain, submitted by: Mark Bowler, Director of Education and Training Director of Lands, Resources and Consultation arla joins the MNO as a Métis Healthy Babies Healthy Children Coordinator working out of he Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) is pleased to he Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) is pleased to Cthe MNO offi ce in Thunder Bay. welcome Scott France to the Hamilton MNO offi ce welcome Cheryl Moroz to the Toronto MNO offi ce, Carla comes to the MNO from Dilico Anishinabek Fam- Tin the position of Employment Developer. Tin the position of MNO Consultation Intake Clerk ily Care Centre in Thunder Bay where she worked in As- Scott France has been actively involved with the Métis with the MNO Lands, Resources and Consultation Branch. sessment and Brief Treatment Residential Services. There Nation of Ontario for many years. He has been a staple Cheryl self-identifi es as Métis and is very excited to she provided counselling, prevention and support to the at past MNO Annual General Assembly’s working in start her new role with the MNO. She is looking forward overall needs of the child while also including the family. various capacities including being actively involved in to building on the MNO’s success. She brings six years Carla has her diploma in Child and Youth Work from demonstrating the Métis Voyageur games. of relevant experience to the position. Confederation College. She is experienced in working In Scott’s new position as an Employment Developer with children, youth and their families in the areas of in Region 9 he will bring his longstanding connection mental health addictions, emotional, social, behavioural to the Métis community and his understanding of the 04: WHITNEY MONTGOMERY diffi culties, and in developing and applying therapeutic importance of experiential life-long learning to his work interventions. with clients and employers. submitted by: Wenda Watteyne, Director of Healing and Wellness 07: MEAGAN HODGE 03: MARk BURNS he Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) is pleased to welcome Whitney Montgomery to the Ottawa submitted by: Wenda Watteyne, submitted by: Jennifer St. Germain, TMNO offi ce, in the position of Project Coordinator Director of Healing and Wellness Director of Education and Training with the MNO Chronic Disease Surveillance Program. Whitney graduated with from Brock University in June eagan joins the MNO as a Community Wellness he Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) is pleased to 2010 with a Bachelor of Arts in Kinesiology. She then went Coordinator working out of the MNO offi ce in welcome Mark Burns to the Sudbury MNO offi ce on to complete a Master of Science in Human Kinetics at MOwen Sound. Tin the position of Employment Developer with the the University of Ottawa, graduating in April 2013. Dur- Meagan comes to the MNO from Second Avenue MNO Métis Mining Strategy. ing her studies, Whitney worked as a Research Assistant Lodge, a residential facility for people dealing with mental Mark graduated with Honours as a Community Ser- at The Ottawa Hospital Rehabilitation Centre, and after health issues and previous to that worked in Community vice Worker (CSW) from the Canadian Career College in graduation, as a Fitness Instructor at the YMCA/YWCA. Living residential group homes. Sudbury in February 2013. His CSW training included a Whitney is excited about her new role with MNO Meagan graduated from the Social Service Worker practicum with the March of Dimes in the Employment and is looking forward to learning more about Métis program at Fanshawe College. She is experienced in Services Offi ce, which provided him with hands-on ex- heritage and culture while applying her keen interest in working with people who have disabilities and mental perience in the employment services fi eld. health to improving healing and wellness outcomes for health issues. As a self-identifi ed Métis, Mark is excited to help Métis Métis people. people advance their career goals in the mining fi eld and is looking forward to learning more about his heritage and culture. The MNo is very excited to have these new staff members join the team! Métis Voyageur 12 Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 FAmiLy We laughed until there were no tears left By: Roger Giroux

t was such a good feeling to see so Having spent four days in the many youths at the Métis Nation bush and telling moose stories every Iof Ontario Annual General As- night the boys were all wound up sembly this year. I was able to have for sound by the time we got home . lunch with one of our youths from the The next morning, my 3 year old Soo, who told me his name was Dave. son Ty was also on Memere Ros’s He had a Mohawk babysitting list. So haircut. I couldn’t with Ty listening, get over how proud Henri tells Rose, he was to be Métis who is a certified and it reminded me I couldn’t barber and has of my two grand kids get over how been cutting their who my wife Rose hair since they were and I took camping proud he was born, I want an Iro- a few weeks ago. to be Métis and quois cut Memere.” We take them Memere, reminisc- fishing every year it reminded ing a little remem- and they really look me of my two bered that only a forward to it. Henri few weeks before who is eight can’t grand kids...” when she asked wait to shoot his —Roger Giroux Henri’s Mom, Lyne, first partridge this what kind of haircut fall. He has been practicing for the she should give Henri for the sum- past three years with my four- ten mer, she said: “He is old enough to Roger Giroux with his shot gun. Theo is my other grand- know what he wants.” grandsons Henri and Theo. son who is six and who has also Guess what kind of haircut Henri been practicing for the last two wanted and guess what kind of hair- years. I think Theo will be ready to cut Memere gave him? pretty much without comment but shoot his fi rst partridge in two years. So on the next day when they when she told her what Ty said; that While fi shing, these Métis boys were going to a birthday party at broke the ice. Ty after seeing Henri’s brought in some big Pike all by their other Grandma’s, there were no haircut says to Memere: “I WANT themselves. They take turns as one sparks fl ying but it was close. Meme- A DINOSAUR CUT TO MEMERE.” reels the fi sh in, while the other nets re reminded Lyne what she had said We laughed until there were no it. It is a thrill to watch. about Henri’s haircut and that went tears left. ∞

OBITUARIES LINDA MITCHELL GEORGE SINCLAIR submitted by: MNO Georgian Bay Métis Council submitted by: kathleen Tardi, late Métis Senator Kay Lynch, ac- he Métis Nation of Ontario MNO Kenora Métis Council companying her to Annual General (MNO) Georgian Bay Métis Assemblies and assisting her how- TCouncil sadly announces o truly know George was to ever he could. that Linda Mitchell passed away on understand that he was au- George was extremely social, August 22, 2013 at the age of 59 af- Tthentic, passionate, persis- always on the go, attending gath- ter a brief battle with cancer. Linda tent and unyield- erings, feasts was predeceased by her mother, the ing in his efforts and pow-wows; late Senator Helen Bradley OMC. to help others. always having A small grave side service was He was a man George’s a story to share held for Linda at St. Ann’s Cemetery of conviction and a genuine ea- in Penetanguishene on August 29, and wherever understanding gerness to learn 2013. he travelled, in in the value of something new. Linda was well known and well- every conversa- He loved to loved for the countless hours of tion he shared, being Métis is bead and had volunteering she so freely donated DuBeau, her daughter Natasha he wore his heart to be admired a special talent to the MNO Georgian Bay Métis and her granddaughter Savana. Lin- and his beliefs on for finding eagle Council. da will be greatly missed by her best his sleeve. His and shared feathers wherever Linda is survived by her father friend Jackie Moreau and her many spirited person- with future he journeyed. Alcime DuBeau, her brother Larry family members and friends. ∞ ality may have A little later in preceded him in generations and life, George found his travels but he exemplary of a an earnest love for most certainly Métis Elder.” traditional teach- JULIENNE POTVIN left an indel- ings and healing ness for traditional items and al- submitted by: Senator Marlene and resident of Windsor and Crys- ible mark with and before long though he was gifted numerous, he Greenwood tal Falls, Ontario, she is survived by his commitment he was taking also created many more including her loving sisters and brothers, Con- to promoting and preserving the sage, tobacco and birch bark to pipes, pouches and ceremonial re- t is with great sadness we an- nie, Isabel, Carmen, Jean-Yves and culture, traditions and history of those isolated and unable to travel. galia. Of all his designs, his most nounce the sudden passing of Rheaume. Predeceased by Conrad, the Métis. Welcomed as a Métis Elder and treasured undertaking was a very IJulienne Orilla Potvin on June Bernard, Lilly and Colette and by her He served several years as a acknowledged for his fellowship special drum for young Jaren, son of 16, 2013 in Crystal Falls at age 78. parents Albert and Nelda Chartrand. board member of the MNO Kenora he was a member of the Turtle Clan very close friends Marshall and Jan. Beloved wife of Gerald Potvin and Loving grandmother to Mitchell, Métis Council and would leap at and was given the traditional name His understanding in the value loving mother of Denise (Larry), Da- Zachary, Charlie and Laura. A mass every opportunity to proudly carry of “Gaagizhibaashkaad makwa” of being Métis is to be admired and vid, Richard (Delia), Michelle (Kelly), was held on June 29 at Notre Dame the Métis Flag. He was honoured meaning Circling Black Bear. shared with future generations and Nicole (Larry). Born in Noellville, De La Paix in Crystal Falls. ∞ to share a special bond with the He developed a special fond- exemplary of a Métis Elder. ∞ Métis Voyageur Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 13

Tera and Nicola Teillet (if only through a summary of their presentations Book Review given at the MNO’s Annual General Assembly or other Assemblies). One would hope with the new Law school opening at Lakehead tie the knot! Métis in Canada: History, Identity, Law and Politics. University, that there will be more Métis legal scholar- Submitted by: Editors Christopher Adams, Gregg Dahl and Ian Peach. Edmonton: University of Alberta Press. 2013. ship generated in the future. The article by Patzer is Joseph Paquette, President of disturbing as he advocates for direct political action the MNO Veterans’ Council By: Chris Paci, Director of Post-secondary Program at over the courts because of the finality that legal deci- Indspire ongratulations to Tera Beau- sions bring (page 309). lieu and her new husband eaders of the Métis Voyageur are sure to find this The section on politics is made up of four essays, CNicola. The two recently new anthology by Adams, et al, to be wordy. This which are by far and large, demonstrative of a national- tied the knot in the presence of fam- Ris an academic text that covers a narrow range ist fetishism, Adams being the exception. For those ily and friends. on some specific Métis issues and topics written by participating in the day to day life of Métis gover- The daughter of Magdalena and both Métis and non-Métis academics. Readers who are nance, academic papers can sometimes add little in Jerome Beaulieu, Tera and her bridal looking to find information to complement or complete particular about provincial, municipal, Inuit and First party celebrated the special day with Nicola and Tera (left) posing with their genealogy will be disappointed. Overall, the 13 es- Nation government relations. Thankfully, Dr Saunders’ a Métis flare by wearing moccasins Veteran Joseph Paquette on their says will help situation one’s thinking about being Métis essay does not go as far as others, to naively assert down the aisle. Also at the wedding wedding day. relative to some fundamental issues and these essays will a simplistic political view of the evolution of Métis reception, Ginny Gonneau did a hopefully stimulate conversation and academic debate governance. Rather, she argues the Métis community is few Métis jigs that were enjoyed by dent in the Counselling Psychology on a number of topics of relevance to Métis in Canada. adaptive and resilient, themes picked up by Adams in everyone. program specializing in Indigenous There are three essays (chapters) under the heading the conclusion, and these characteristics are reflected in Tera is a Métis Nation of Ontario mental health. She is very involved of identity, which includes two from two Métis Nation their institutions. Adams would benefit from reading a (MNO) Infinite Reach Facilitator at with the MNO Infinite Reach Pro- of Ontario (MNO) citizens who are also academics and recent study commissioned by the MNO that reviewed the University of Toronto where gram and provides much support authors, Gloria Bell and Laura-Lee Kearns. Dr Kearns’ Métis institutional development. Since the Stonecricle she is a fourth year doctoral stu- for Métis Youth. ∞ essay, in particular, features memories and interviews study was completed in the winter of 2013 Rupertsland with prominent MNO women and Senators; Claire Institute has seen provincial funding cut. A major omis- Kearns, Helen Bradley, and Olivine Tiedema. Recording sion of these papers is looking at how sustainable Métis the stories of Métis men and women, founding mem- “governments” are when they have no means to raise Introducing Angelo Henry Bruni bers, elders and Senators, and knowledge holders is an revenues to pay for services and programs. Submitted by: Loma Rowlinson important and critical aspect to maintaining community It would have been nice to see a health, demographic continuity and contributing to the regeneration of Métis or economics section in the text, one that would high- ank and Loma Rowlinson’s culture and history. light some of the research out there focusing on Métis 6lb, 13oz grandson was The section on history is made up of three papers. It quality of life, such as the work of Eric Howe and others. Hborn Friday, September is, perhaps, the most disappointing section for a lack of There is also considerable research on the social deter- 23 at 2:30 p.m. in Sault Ste. Ma- new writings about Métis in Ontario. As it stands, there minants of Métis health in Canada. As well, it would have rie. Mom, Caitlind Rowlinson, and are no new historical insights offered and the tired con- been nice to see more about Métis cultural expression, baby Angelo Henry Bruni are all do- tribution from Tom Flanagan about the writings of Louis beyond section dividers illustrating Métis sashes and ing well. The proud dad, Massimo Riel adds little to our understanding of Métis history. who and where they were weaved. Future essays about Bruni is doing okay too. Congratu- The section on law is made up of two chapters. This the richness of cultural expression by Métis, focussing on lations to the Rowlinson family on section would have been improved with an additional all medium, the struggles and resiliency would help tell their new addition to the family! ∞ contribution from someone like Jason Madden or Jean the evolving story of Métis in Canada. ∞

Lakehead Supports Métis Learners Lakehead University is committed to Specialization & Access Programs helping Métis peoples further their Department of Indigenous Learning educational aspirations. Aboriginal Native Nurses Entry Program Native Access Program programs at Lakehead offer academic, research, and cultural support services Aboriginal Education tailored to Aboriginal needs. Honours Bachelor of Education (Aboriginal) P/J Native Teacher Education Program Native Language Instructors’ Program Ofﬁ ce of Aboriginal Initiatives aboriginalinitiatives.lakeheadu.ca Administrative & Support Services 1-807-766-7219 or toll free 1-888-558-3388 Ofﬁ ce of Aboriginal Initiatives Aboriginal Cultural & Support Services Métis Student Liaison Facilitator Nanabijou Aboriginal Graduate Enhancement Lakehead University Aboriginal Alumni Chapter Lakehead University Native Students Association Elders Program Métis Voyageur 14 Fall 2013, Issue no. 77

The Tragic Métis Family Story Continued By: Donn Fowler Corrigal, (b.1775-d. 8th March ,1844), a commissioned rigal adult children. The Corrigals were now being publicly offi cer of the HBC after fi fty years of service in the north denounced as “half-breed lonely Indians”. The dormant All opinions expressed are those of the writer and do not country, retired, with his four motherless Métis children in Corrigal wealth was offi cially determined to be valued at £18 necessarily refl ect the policies of the Métis Nation of Ontario tow, to the Hamlet of Amherst in Northumberland County 000 sterling but it remained in a state of continuous limbo. or historical research accepted by the Métis Nation of Ontario. where he purchases land for £75 sterling in 1840. Corrigal Even after Robert Henry had become mentally disoriented built his beautiful home in 1841/42 and the Corrigal fam- and therefore incommunicado, his wife tried to “carry on” for his extremely sad story…” in the ily lived comfortably and well in their William Street home “…fi ve years…”—according to her own testimony—she too summer, 2013, issue # 76 Métis in the Town of Cobourg. The Corrigal girls were always failed to get the will activated and probated. Voyageur”, page 23, “… can con- well-dressed and had their own riding horses to take care By 1854 –almost a decade after Jacob’s death, -- atten- tinue to be written.” Because it of, and to get about their Métis community, even as far as tion was sought of the just and apolitical James Bruce, [the concerns two young men; namely, Otonabee Township, in Peterborough County, where one of son-in-law of the famous John Lambton who, in turn, was T William Goodwin, born in 1788, their two married sisters now lived; namely, Mary, named the brother-in- law of the powerful Charles Earl in England and thirty years later his nephew, after her late mother, Mary (Goodwin) Corrigal and Jacob’s politics] fi nally, to decide on a course of action concerning William Corrigal, who was born in 1818, with both men beloved country wife. Corrigal’s will, and in addition, who should be appointed deprived of common justice during their lifetime; moreover, to administer it. Bruce, as the senior Crown Offi cer in the it concerns the fact that not only were both Williams born new Province of Canada ordered his Newcastle District as Métis children, but also they were each denied a direct “Commissioner”, Mr. Henry Throop, to appoint the son, benefi t of their respective father’s wills. William Corrigal as the sole “Administrator “ of the will, but Let’s begin with William Goodwin. In 1796, at the ten- conditional on the separate appointment of three Cobourg der age of eight, William left his mother “Mistigoose”, and “gentlemen”, each of whom would be responsible for one- his “opposite-sex co-twin” sister, “Mary”, behind when Goodwin’s years third of the of the £18000. The house and property remained the young William was taken to England, by his father, in the control of the Corrigals under the terms of the special and left permanently in the trust and care of the wealthy reveal no evidence wording of the “coded” and true copy of the three extant Robert Goodwin’s lawyer, John Barmby. Barmby had two that he was even holograph wills and the one type-written copy. Even today daughters, Julia and Charlotte. In 1819 William Goodwin the true longhand will is known only by a very few surviv- married Charlotte when she was about age 39 and William remotely wealthy, ing member of the Métis / Métis extant family of Corrigals, was about age 31. William was to have received most of the probably because Scollies, and Fowlers. wealth of his father, Robert’s, quite substantial estate, when The three Cobourg “gentlemen sureties”, appointed by he would reach age 25; however, if William failed to live to in England he was Commissioner Robert Henry Throop, to control £ 6000 age 21, Barmby’s two daughters would each receive half of soon classifi ed as each, were: Senator Asa A. Burnham, (son of Zacheus Burn- the entire estate. Messrs. Barmby and Purvis were Robert ham from whom Jacob Corrigal bought his property for £ Goodwin’s executors. While Robert and his son where in “half-breed” and 75); Senator George Strange Boulton, and the Northum- England in 1796 “Mistigoose” died in Rupert’s Land. could not inherit. berland County Land Registrar, Mr. Archibald McDonald. Meanwhile, in 1796 Jacob Corrigal , at age 21was “Mas- The writer has obtained only one small original record of ter” at Lake St Ann (Lake Nipigon) and would have reported Corrigal money contributed to the building fund of the new to Robert Goodwin while Goodwin was “Master “at Osna- and wood- replacing stone structured St. Peter’s Anglican burgh House. At the time, Robert was age 33. It is possible Church, in Cobourg. The questions remain the same for both little eight year old Mary would probably have been taken William Goodwin and William Corrigal: “What disposal was care of immediately following on her beloved Mother’s Mary (Corrigal) Scollie (b.1811-d. 2nd November 1862) made of the two substantial inheritances that did not ever unexpected death, and with Robert not yet back from Eng- of the Otonabee Township shared their “Blue Bell Farm” with go directly to William Goodwin, and/or to the Corrigals?” land, Jacob Corrigal may well have assumed that obvious her husband, Robert Scollie, also a former Scottish Orkney Secondly, what became of the record of revenue and expen- responsibility. Robert returned to the HBC by 1797—sans man indentured with the HBC and posted to Martin Falls ditures, invoices and receipt documents? The impoverished William-- not as an HBC Surgeon but now as a formal and and working with his future father-in-law Jacob Corrigal. Corrigals fi nally lost their home and property to Messrs. approved HBC “Trader”. William Goodwin’s years reveal Family longhand correspondence reveals that Charlotte Henry Ruttan and Zacheus Burnham. no evidence that he was even remotely “wealthy”, probably Corrigal’s hand was being sought, by a proposal of marriage, The hired fi ndings of a professional because in England he was soon classifi ed—just as was Wil- by a “D’Arcy Boulton”, but he was turned down. By the 19 researcher sent the writer the following liam Corrigal later classifi ed—both not having been born as of July and 10 of September of 1843, all four Corrigals had note from Cobourg in July of 2011: “British Subjects”—but as “half-breed” and therefore classed been baptized and confi rmed as Anglicans, in the Cobourg as “Indians” who could not—therefore—inherit. Accord- Church of England, having been guided by the Reverend “Henry Ruttan by Q.C. [1841”Quit Claim”] gave to Zach- ingly, in William Goodwin’s situation, married to Charlotte Alexander Neil Bethune, the Rector of that tiny wooden eus Burnham in 1839 registered in 1843 instrument A127, Barmby, Charlotte’s lawyer father, John Barmby and Purvis, structured Anglican Church on King Street east.... 32 acres of land (prior to Corrigal’s #6605 Deed). This A127 could fi nd a way to “legally” arrange the inheritance to de- Life for the Cobourg Corrigals was both enjoyable and is an 1839 Deed. In 1841 Zacheus Burnham sold one acre volve onto “Mrs. Charlotte (Barmby) Goodwin”—possibly affl uent, but extremely short-lived because their father died to Jacob Corrigal [Deed #6605]. I cannot fi nd the Abstract at William’s expense for the remainder of his life. When on the 8th March 1844 and was buried by the Reverend A.N. Book where this was recorded even though it is registered. William died in 1838 there was clear evidence that his life Bethune, a faithful protégé of the 1830 to 1840 Oligarchy The next thing I fi nd is when being opened the page in Lot11 had not been an easy one. Once back in North America he nick-named the “Family Compact” and controlled by that Block A indicates a big gap which puzzles me. This is unex- was a farm worker and did not live a lavish existence, even “Arch Anglican” the Reverend John Strachan. Jacob Cor- plainable and I do not think there is any other place I can to his burial in a then Prince Edward Island Colony grave. rigal’s Will had clearly named every one of his individual look.” Also, this professional researcher says, “I cannot fi nd The question remains, what disposal was then made of the children as major benefi ciary, but since they were not seen where this is abstracted in the Books of the Registry Offi ce inheritance that William Goodwin’s father had indicated, for as true “British Subjects” they could not inherit any of the and therefore what subsequently happened to the property.” his son, William, in his “Last Will and Testament”? estate wealth. Between the fathers’s death in 1844 and 1854 Recently, the Town of Cobourg “Heritage” authority has been Next we have William Corrigal, a lifetime bachelor and the three named executive trustees were no longer available made aware of these serious matters and the present need his three spinster sisters, to consider relative to their de- to probate the Corrigal will. Of the three, William Nourse of action in order to effect the, Restoration of Our Family’s privation and progressive demise. William was the fi rst to a son-in-law, remained in Labrador and was injured and Honour with Justice Served”. die on the 29th April, 1890, followed by two months apart, incapacitated; Chief Factor Alexander Christie was retired The above reference to “Lot 11 Block A” originated as “Lot Charlotte and Elizabeth on the 22nd February, and 23 and died in England; only Robert Henry, a Cobourg private 19 Concession A” where the Deed #6605 registration should April, of 1897. Catherine, last, died in Douro Township in home banker was available, and while he tried to probate have appear; however, it did not get properly recorded in Peterborough County at age 95 in 1909. Their father, Jacob Corrigals will, more than once, it was of no use to the Cor- the 1841 chronological registrations made! ∞ Métis Voyageur Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 15 Searching for a flag for the Métis Nation of Ontario Request for Submissions (RFS)

The Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) is requesting submis- extraneous features; designs with extraneous 4. No lettering or seals: Good flags do not sions for designs for a MNO flag that will be used as the of- features will not be considered; include writing of any or kind or an organi- ficial provincial Métis flag of the MNO to go along with the zation’s seal or logo etc.; flags are symbols • Submissions can be made either electronically or national Métis flag. and words defeat that purpose. Lettering is with hard copies; electronic submissions can be difficult to read from a distance, hard to sew, made to [email protected]. Hard copy A. Process: difficult to read in smaller reproductions and submissions can be sent to: • PCMNO sets requirements, parameters and not reversible. guidelines for submissions; MNO Flag Request for Proposals 500 Old St. Patrick Street Unit D • PCMNO appoints selection committee; 5. Be distinctive or be related: Do not dupli- Ottawa, Ontario K1N 9G4 cate other flags but use similarities to show • Selection committee members will be required to connections. Never duplicate another flag or familiarize themselves with North American Vexil- • Fax submissions are not acceptable and will not design something so similar it could be mis- lological Association standards and apply these be considered; taken for another flag. If there is a direct con- to the selection process; • Submissions must be in colour; nection between two bodies and you wish to • The RFS will be publicized in the Voyageur, web- represent that in a flag that should be accom- • Submissions must include a short explanation of site, eVoyageur and Facebook; plished through use of symbols, colours and the symbolism represented in the design; shapes that recall common heritage, solidarity • All designs will be vetted to determine whether • Submissions must include the name, citizen num- or connectedness. designs meet the criteria outlined in the RFS. ber, mailing address and e-mail address (if he/ Only those that meet the criteria will be consid- *Additional information about North American she has one) of the designer; those without this ered by the selection committee; Vexillological Association standards can be found in their information will not be considered; booklet “Good Flag Bad Flag: • Following the deadline and after vetting to How to Design a Great • Only one submission is permitted per citizen; if ” which is posted on the MNO website. ensure compliance, the selection committee will Flag, multiple submissions are received, the first one be presented with all qualified designs. Who the received will be the only one considered; designers are will not be shared with the selec- • The PCMNO reserves the right to alter the flag tion committee; • Designs must conform to the five principles of flag designs chosen that go forward to MNO citizens design as outlined by the North American Vexil- for final selection; • The selection committee recommends five lological Association. Flags that do not meet these designs they feel are most appropriate to the principles will not be considered. The principles are: PCMNO; • Citizens who submit designs must sign declara- tions agreeing to turn over all rights of their de- • From the five designs that are recommended, the Keep it simple: a good flag is simple enough signs to the MNO; the MNO will have complete PCMNO will select two or three designs which 1. that a child can draw it from memory. Flags ownership of the design, including copyright, they feel best reflect Ontario Métis; must be seen from a distance and from their and will register the design as an MNO trade- • A vote will take place at the 2014 AGA among opposite side. Complicated flags are also mark; the designs selected by the PCMNO, and the more costly to reproduce. final one will be chosen; • The deadline for submissions is • The design with the greatest number of votes will 2. Use meaningful symbolism: a good flag uses December 31, 2013. be selected as the official MNO flag. symbolism through a main graphic element, colours and layout. B. RFS Criteria: • Only MNO citizens can submit designs; 3. Use two-three basic colours: The number of colours in a flag should be limited to three, • All designs must be rectangular with standard which contrast well and come from a standard width-to-length proportions of 1:2. Square, colour set. The basic flag colours are red, triangular or any shape other rectangular at 1:2 blue, green, black, yellow and white and there proportions will not be considered; use can range from dark to light. A good flag • Designs cannot include tassels, fringes or other should also reproduce well in black and white. Métis Voyageur 16 Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 Opportunities

Métis Youth wanted for Canadian Armed Forces Aboriginal programs

Submitted by: Veterans Senator Dr. Alis Kennedy, CD, OMC full six weeks; they get paid every Forces Primary Reserves, either are that the candidate must be, 16 two weeks, receiving portion of that Army, Navy or Air Force, since the years of age or older; grade 10 or eterans Senator Alis Kennedy, CD, OMC, had the honour amount. BMQ is the base for further train- higher education complete; a Ca- and privilege to be engaged with the Canadian Armed Forces Civilian Aboriginal counsellors ing in any of the components of the nadian citizen and self-identifies V (CAF) Aboriginal Black Bear program which was conducted (male and female) are on staff and CAF. Also they are eligible to join as Aboriginal and; able to meet the at CFB Gagetown, New Brunswick. available to assist with the transition the Regular Forces if their goal is to CAF enrolment standard. to military life and to provide coun- make a full time career with the CAF. There are also other programs; selling if/when needed. The Sena- They also have the choice to return one is called Aboriginal Leadership The program was moved to Gag- they are of Métis culture. As a bo- tor for the Métis Nation of Ontario home as a civilian. At the end of the Opportunities Year (ALOY), based etown from CFB Borden where it nus, the youth earn money, lasting Veterans’ Council had the honour program, they will gain the leader- at Royal Military College in Kings- began in 2008. The Aboriginal Black friendships and gain great experi- to be the first Métis and first bilin- ship, work skills, and dedication ton. It is a year-long pre university Bear Program is a combination of ences which, by the way, looks great gual counsellor of the Black Bear to be successful in whatever path program. There are also two other Aboriginal traditions with the Cana- on a résumé! Program. they choose. programs called Canadian Forces dian Armed Forces Primary Reserve The Black Bear Program was cre- The Aboriginal recruits are Aboriginal Entry Program (CFAEP). Basic Military Qualification Training ated after two other very successful trained in standard first aid and CPR, Both programs are three weeks in (BMQ) condensed into a very in- programs, one called Bold Eagle, navigation with compass and maps, length. The candidates remain civil- tense six weeks training. This army located in Wainwright in northern basic weapons training, military drill, ...great ians and received $1,200.00 upon military training is preceded by a Alberta and in operation for the past survival and rappelling, as well as opportunities completion. These two CFAEP are four-day Culture Camp, conducted 24 years and; the other called Raven, other military topics; they also have located in Halifax. The first one is by Aboriginal Elders, to familiarise which started in 2003 and is located daily physical fitness and sports. In for Aboriginal in May; is run by the Navy and the the recruits in all three Aboriginal in Esquimalt (Victoria) on Vancou- addition they attend a Career Day Youth and to other one is in October and is army cultures of First Nation, Métis and ver Island. The Bold Eagle and the showing them opportunities not only oriented. The CFAEP is not only Inuit, as well as to ease the recruits’ Black Bear Programs are based on in the CAF, but also in other federal have more of for youth. Last fall, a 45 year-old transition into the military. This past army training, while Raven is Navy. sectors (RCMP, Corrections, ect). our Métis youth woman completed the program, summer, all the recruits were from The CAF provides transportation to The graduation ceremony was then joined the Regular Forces! First Nations communities except and from the training program, liv- followed by a demonstration of rap- show how proud Any one interested in apply- for one Métis; we had no Inuit par- ing accommodations, food, clothing pelling by some graduates. Ladies, they are of Métis ing for any of the above programs ticipants. and all equipment for the course. there is a place for you in these should contact the nearest CAF The reason for this article is While the youths (16 to 30 years programs; the top recruit and most culture. Recruiting Center or phone 1-800- to make Métis youth aware of the old, but some are older) are in the improved student were females! 856-8488 and/or visit www.forces. programs’ great opportunities for program they are temporarily Cana- Upon completion of the BMQ, ca then click on “programs.” There Aboriginal Youth and to have more dian Forces members and are paid the graduates are qualified to join The basic requirements to join is a different deadline to apply for of our Métis youth show how proud around $3,500 for completing the any units of the Canadian Armed any of the three summer programs each program. ∞ Métis Voyageur Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 17

SYCP interpreters showcasing traditional Métis dances for the crowd. Back row: Marie Chalykoff and Katelyn LaCroix. Front row: Alexandra Dusome and Justine Chalykoff.

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Confederation College student Johnoathon Falvo sanding a paddle at during the Siege of Wasaga re-enactment. A summer of discovery MNO’s Summer Youth Cultural Program

his summer, 15 Métis youth previous years and some who were interpreters were provided a char- thing from muskets and cannons Métis involvement in the War of embarked on a journey of joining for the first time. For their acter to portray during their stay. to wild edibles and of course MNO 1812 and many hands-on cultural Tself-discovery as they joined training, the group first came to- They would also have to bring these programs and governance, Métis activities such as finger weaving and the Métis Nation of Ontario’s (MNO) gether at the MNO office in Midland characters to life during future re- history and culture, finger weaving, beading. Summer Youth Cultural Program and then reunited at Old Fort Wil- enactments. beading, embroidery, fire making “I love interpreting and relay- (SYCP). liam, a former North West Company with steel and flint, cooking, tin- ing to other people what it means Designed to strengthen and share post near Thunder Bay, to begin smithing and blacksmithing as well to be Métis,” said returning inter- Métis culture and history, SYCP is a their second week of training. The We were able as War of 1812 training. preter and Sault College student MNO community based initiative second week required full immer- “During the tin and blacksmith- Nicki Doucette. “A few years ago comprised of students who deliver sion into the Métis way of life. Upon to portray our ing training each student made a I didn’t know that I was Métis but Métis inspired programs across On- arrival, students were provided with own ancestors, nail and some were as big as a tent had friends who were and had com- tario through experiential educa- traditional Métis attire including pin,” explained Scott Carpenter. pleted this program. I used to wish tion and a “hands on, minds on” strap dresses for the women and before this, I “We needed a pretty big piece of I was Métis just so I could be part approach. This summer’s project corduroy pants and linen shirts for never identified wood to hammer that into.” of the experience, then one day my focused on creating greater aware- the men. The youth really enjoyed the mom told me that I actually am Mé- ness on the contributions of Métis “It was quickly noted that the as Métis because training. First-time interpreter and tis- I signed up right away.” during the War of 1812 through boys looked more like pirates than I didn’t know Confederation College marketing presentations, re-enactments and voyageurs, and those of us who student Johnathon Falvo said, “I re- Getting back to basics other events. had never worn strap dresses were what it meant.” ally enjoyed the training, especially A large focus of SYCP this year Gaining an experience that will drowning in fabric,” said interpreter — Brianne Madonna, University the arts although I’m not very good was to increase awareness of the Mé- last a lifetime, youth spent the sum- and Lakehead University student of Ottawa student at it so during re-enactments I stuck tis involvement in the War of 1812 mer connecting to their roots, shar- Lucy Fowler. to sanding and chopping wood.” and this was done largely through ing Métis heritage and traditions The training, provided by MNO Upon completion of the training, re-enactments. with the outside world, and immers- staff members, Chris McLeod, Mé- “We were able to portray our students took on their new role as a “My favorite part of this whole ing themselves in all things Métis. tis Summer Student Supervisor and own ancestors,” explained first-time Summer Youth Cultural Interpreter. experience is the re-enactment Scott Carpenter, Manager of Proj- interpreter Brianne Madonna, a Lin- Working out of MNO regional of- events,” said first-time interpreter Learning about what it ects and Partnerships, focused on guistics and Psychology student at fices in Thunder Bay, Sault Ste. Ma- and Lakehead University student means to be Métis re-enactments and character devel- the University of Ottawa. “Before rie and Midland, SYCP Interpreters Cameron Hartman. “We really get Before the students could deliver opment. MNO Senator Bob McKay this, I never identified as Métis be- developed regional programs for to relish in the experience- it’s life the programs, they first took part in and MNO Manager of Way of Life cause I didn’t know what it meant. summer camps, retirement homes, changing.” two weeks of comprehensive train- Framework Brian Tucker assisted The character development really schools and other community or- This year provided a unique op- ing on Métis heritage. with training in Thunder Bay as well helped me understand and connect ganizations. Regional programs portunity as the War of 1812 bi- The 15 interpreters included as Ruth Quesnelle in Midland. to my roots.” included information on the Métis centennial celebrations took place students who had participated in Well at Old Fort William, the Workshops were held on every- Way of Life (WOLF), the fur trade, across the province providing SYCP Métis Voyageur 18 Fall 2013, Issue no. 77

Alexandra Dusome playing a traditional Métis game.

Summer Youth Cultural Program interpreters during their second week of training at Fort William. (Left to right) Front row: Will Stolz, Justin Blondin, Johnathon Falvo and Cameron Hartman. Middle row: Katelyn LaCroix, Alexandra Dusome, Justine Chalykoff, Brianne Madonna, Nicki Doucette, Melody SYCP interpreters at the Sault Ste. Marie Chislett-Morris, Marie Chalykoff, and Tressa Beaulieu. Back History Fest/War of 1812/Tall Ships. row: Lucy Fowler and Stephanie Chartrand. Missing from photo Alicia Blore.

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Justin Blondin, Nicki Doucette, Cameron Hartman and Alexandra Dusome SYCP interpreters performing at dancing at during the Marie Chalykoff and Nicki Doucette the MNO 20th Anniversary Dinner Wasaga Under Siege re- preparing a traditional Métis meal during a Theatre, Dance and Feast. enactment. re-enactment.

interpreters the chance to attend the expected on stage before he could the events. One example of this was By camping, the students began 01: SYCP interpreters showcasing events and re-enact what life was follow through.” chopping wood for the fire. While to appreciate common necessities traditional Métis dances for the like for Métis people during the war. Some activities that took place on Nancy Island during the Siege that we take for granted in everyday crowd. Back row: Marie Chalykoff “It is my third year being part of during the re-enactments, many of of Wasaga, one of the male inter- life, like the luxury of a shower. and Katelyn LaCroix. Front row: Alexandra Dusome and Justine this program and every year I learn which were new to the interpreters, preters was having a bit of trouble “Luckily there were nearby bod- Chalykoff. a different aspect about being Métis. included jigging to the musical tal- chopping wood as it was something ies of water so nobody stunk up the This time it was our involvement ents of Métis fiddler and University he had never done before. A local camp,” laughed Johnathon Falvo. 02: SYCP interpreters paddling in the War of 1812,” said Melody of Waterloo student Alicia Blore, re-enactor noticed this and offered The SYCP interpreters conclud- alongside MNO citizens to light Chislett-Morris who is also an MNO Métis Voyageur games, traditional some assistance; he even provided ed their summer by attending the the torch during the opening Infinite Reach Facilitator for Sault cooking and the re-creation of a Mé- a lesson to the students. Up next to MNO 20th Annual General Assem- ceremonies of the 2013 Canoe Federation Junior and Under-23 Ste. Marie College. “I think my fa- tis voyageur encampment. the block was Nicki Doucette, she bly (AGA) where they set up a cul- Sprint World Championships in vourite part of the whole experience The presentations of Métis tradi- easily chopped the wood without tural display that included historic Welland. is really learning how to cohabitate tional dance were always a popular any assistance. The other re-enactor Métis artifacts such as weapons, with my fellow youth – it’s some- show and drew in large crowds. Those was very impressed. clothing and furs. 03: Confederation College student thing I never did in college.” watching would clap along with the The encampment aspect of the During the AGA the students Johnoathon Falvo sanding a Among the events the interpret- live fiddle music and program taught provided entertainment during the paddle during the Siege of Wasaga re-enactment. ers attended over the summer were try to take as many the students many 20th Anniversary Dinner Theatre, the Sault Ste. Marie History Fest/ pictures as possible. Being things they didn’t Dance and Feast. Practicing together 04: Summer Youth Cultural War of 1812/Tall Ships, the Siege Some even joined in. know before and for the three nights prior, the stu- Program interpreters during of Fort Erie, Wasaga Under Siege, Returning female in- involved in helped them con- dents created their own Métis in- their second week of training at and the 2013 International Canoe terpreters expressed this program nect with nature. spired lyrics to go along with the Fort William. (Left to right) Front Federation Junior and Under 23 Ca- how pleased they “There are so popular hits “Blurred Lines” by Rob- row: Will Stolz, Justin Blondin, opened Johnathon Falvo and Cameron noe Sprint World Championships were with the num- many things I have in Thicke and “Low” by Flo Rida. Hartman. Middle row: Katelyn opening ceremonies. ber of male students my eyes to never done before “The performance was a little LaCroix, Alexandra Dusome, “Because on a day to day basis this year. This meant that I am experi- embarrassing,” said Katelyn La- Justine Chalykoff, Brianne our teams are stationed in different they did not have the culture encing through Croix, “but it made the audience Madonna, Nicki Doucette, Melody cities, the re-enactments feel like a to take on the male within my this program, like laugh and that’s what it is all about.” Chislett-Morris, Marie Chalykoff, homecoming. We become one big dancing role, al- starting a fire from “It was good getting everyone to- and Tressa Beaulieu. Back row: family. It is Lucy Fowler and Stephanie family,” said Wilfred Laurier Univer- though a few still did. scratch and really gether dancing, it really seemed like Chartrand. Missing from photo sity student Katelyn LaCroix. Living with his- way more getting back to the everyone enjoyed the performance,” Alicia Blore. Each event featured a Métis en- torical accuracy isn’t basics,” explained added Johnathon Falvo. campment complete with 16 canvas always the easiest, than a job...” Brianne Madonna. Students spent their last day to- 05: Justin Blondin, Nicki Doucette, tents, two voyageur canoes and the even with some- — Will Stolz, Lakehead Sleeping in a gether encamped at the AGA cul- Cameron Hartman and Alexandra Dusome dancing at during the SYCP interpreters living and work- thing as simple as University student tent was also new tural event on Victoria Island. The Wasaga Under Siege re-enactment. ing in period outfits. Interpreters making food. A to many of the stu- crowd joined them in Métis games, engaged with other re-enactors stickler for historical accuracy, Métis dents. Johnathon Falvo didn’t real- arts and traditional dance. It was a 06: Marie Chalykoff and Nicki and the public to bring the Métis historian Scott Carpenter requires ize how cold summer nights could great way to end the summer before Doucette preparing a traditional involvement in the War of 1812 the students to only use food that feel. But no matter the weather, each journeyed back to their homes Métis meal during a re-enactment. to life while also educating others the Voyageurs would have had ac- the students stuck it out; they even to begin a new school year with not 07: Marie Chalykoff and Nicki about Métis traditions and heritage. cess to in 1812. The students were camped through severe thunder- only a different perspective of the Doucette preparing a traditional “A few of us may have fallen too hoping to improve the taste of their storms while in Sault Ste. Marie. world around them, but also on who Métis meal during a re-enactment. far into our characters,” explained stew by adding celery but Scott “During the re-enactments we they are. Lucy Fowler. “Justin, one of our pointed out that it would not have became a small community, we have When asked about his overall 08: Brianne Madonna, Alexandra voyageurs, spotted the American been historically accurate, so, the to live and rely on one another,” experience, Lakehead University Dusome and Katelyn LaCroix at soldiers in while we were in Sault stew turned out rather bland. said returning interpreter and digi- student Will Stolz said, “Being in- the Sault Ste. Marie re-enactment. Ste. Marie and planned his attack, The War of 1812 events offered tal film production student Justine volved in this program opened my 09: SYCP interpreters performing with only wooden spoons and rep- an excellent opportunity for SYCP Chalykoff. “Being from a big city eyes to the culture within my family. at the MNO 20th Anniversary licated muskets in his weaponry. interpreters to learn from many it was definitely a new experience It is way more than a job; getting Dinner Theatre, Dance and Feast. Luckily for the Americans, we were other experienced re-enactors at for me.” paid is just a bonus.” ∞ Métis Voyageur Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 19

I am very proud of all you, by working together we have realized the vision and the dreams of the MNO founders...” — President Lipinski

The fi rst of three canoes containing the PCMNO leadership, dignitaries and a much appreciated contingent of strong Métis youth approach hundreds of cheering Métis citizens eagerly awaiting their arrival at the Museum of Civilization. After two decades the MNO is still making history 2013 AgA celebrates past achievements while breaking new ground

(see story on page 3). MNO Presi- President Lipinski added “It is this lectricity was in the air as Métis from across On- dent Gary Lipinski predicted that kind of success that will allow us tario gathered at the Ottawa Delta City Centre the Law would soon prove to be a to build a better and brighter fu- E Hotel for the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) 20th signifi cant landmark in Métis his- ture for our young people.” Annual General Assembly (AGA). As one would see at tory along with other watersheds The passage of the economic any Métis gathering, the well over 300 AGA delegates such as the 2003 R. v. Powley Su- self-sufficiency Law places the greeted each other with the wide smiles, tight hugs and preme Court decision and the MNO in position to generate rev- fi rm handshakes but this year there was a palpable feel- 2008 MNO-Ontario Framework enues independent of funding ing that something special was happening. Agreement. “I am very proud of provided by other governments. all you,” he told the assembly, “by “We will no longer be dependent Part of the current everyone felt knew they had much to celebrate working together we have real- on politics but will have revenue was being generated by the knowl- but even as MNO citizens pre- ized the vision and the dreams of streams that we can invest as we edge that 2013 marks both the 20 pared to look back at 20 years of the MNO founders who outlined see fi t such as advancing Métis year anniversary of the founding achievement, they were also about economic self-suffi ciency as one rights,” stated President Lipinski. of the MNO in 1993 and the 10 to make some history themselves of our key objectives in our State- “This is the start of what we have year anniversary of the landmark by working together to continue ment of Prime Purpose.” Citing the dreamed about for a very long 2003 R. v. Powley Supreme Court the dream and vision laid down recently awarded FIT contracts, time,” he added. of Canada decision. The delegates by the MNO’s founders. Economic Statement of Prime self-sufficiency Law Purpose becomes part advances Métis of MNO Bylaws At every AGA, MNO citizens document,” explained President self-government return to the Statement of Prime Lipinski, “it is incredible that the Purpose when evaluating their MNO’s founders had the insight This AGA saw MNO citizens just prior to the AGA that the (top) President Lipinski past work and looking towards to create such a far reaching vision continue down the road to self- MNO with its investment partners addressing the assembly. (middle) the future. It is especially appro- for the MNO which is every bit as government by unanimously pass- had won major green energy con- MNO citizens test their strength priate, therefore, that at the 20th relevant today as it was when it ing the MNO’s fi rst Law, which tracts through the Ontario Power as part of the Métis Voyageur AGA that the MNO unanimously was written. The Statement of Prime provides the structure that will Authority’s (OPA) Feed-in Tariff Games. (Bottom) Two MNO passed a resolution incorporating Purpose is like a blue print that move the MNO towards economic (FIT) program that points to the Summer Cultural Student Programs the Statement of Prime Purpose into leadership can return to in order to self-suffi ciency. The Law came on kind of economic opportunities showing off their complimentary the MNO Bylaws. “The Statement see what its priorities need to be.” the heels of the announcement now being presented to the MNO Infi nity tattoos. of Prime Purpose is an amazing (Continued on page 16) Métis Voyageur 20 Fall 2013, Issue no. 77

Everyone pulling in the same direction

In his State of the Nation ad- ner year for the MNO. “We have dress during the AGA Opening seen growth in every branch,” ex- Ceremonies, President Lipinski plained President Lipinski, who thanked the Provisional Council of reviewed impressive statistics and the Métis Nation of Ontario (PC- other achievements related to MNO MNO) for being a “wonderful team” programming in the 2012-13 year. where “everyone is pulling in the See the insert in this paper for the same direction.” President Lipin- Highlights of the 2012-13 Annual ski explained how the leadership Report which more information on of the PCMNO, taking direction the successes outlined in the State from the MNO citizens through the of the Nation address. AGA, made 2012-13 another ban- AGA hosts (top) World War II Métis veteran Alexander sign Regional Boucher was presented with the Louis Riel Medal and Certifi cate. Mr. Boucher was 100 years and eight months old during the AGA. (second from top left) Protocol The MNO Peterborough Wapeti, High Land Waters and Ottawa Métis Councils signed the Region 6 Protocol during the AGA. (third from top left) Alyssa The 2013 AGA marked a his- example of Métis collaboration a Delbaere-Sawhuck of the Métis Fiddler Quartet toric first for the MNO because reality. preforming. (middle) On the occasion of the 20th it was the fi rst time that multiple Appropriately, the three com- anniversary of the MNO, MNBC President Bruce community councils shared host- munity councils also signed the Re- Dumont honoured President Lipinski with the gift of ing responsibilities. The Region Six gion Six Protocol Agreement at the an Eagle Feather, which recognized his many years as Métis community councils; High AGA. The High Land Waters and an outstanding leader in the Métis Nation. (second Land Waters, Ottawa and Peterbor- Ottawa Métis Councils had previ- from bottom left) President Lipinski with Métis author ough Wapiti cooperated and shared ously signed the protocol but Peter- Joseph Boyden at the MNO 20th Anniversary Feast, all the work related to serving as borough Wapiti also recently joined Dinner Theatre and Dance. (bottom left) Alicia Bloor the AGA host. Region Six PCMNO the protocol and the ceremony at and members of the Métis Fiddler Quartet provide Councillor Tom Thompson played the AGA formalized arrangements musical accompaniment to the procession leading to a pivotal role in coordinating with between the MNO and the three the Museum of Civilization. (bottom right) Actor each council and making this great community councils. John Houston performs “Corps de Voyageurs: Soldiers in Capotes”. President Lipinski honoured and humbled by special presentation

As is the custom among Métis these powers remain in the feath- governments across the Home- ers. land, invitations were sent to the In recognition of MNO Presi- presidents of each Métis govern- dent Gary Lipinski’s many years ment to attend the 2013 AGA. One of outstanding service as a leader of the presidents within the who graciously ac- Métis Nation, cepted the invita- President Du- tion was President mont present- Bruce Dumont of President ed the eagle the Métis Nation Lipinski feather to Pres- British Columbia ident Lipinski. (MNBC). While was visibly The audience bringing greetings moved responded to during the Open- this highly ing Ceremony, stating meaningful President Dumont that he was gesture with a relayed a story on standing ova- how he and his “honoured tion. President wife had tried to and humbled” Lipinski was save an injured ea- visibly moved gle that they found by the stating that he along a highway in presentation. was “honoured British Columbia. and humbled” Although unable to save the bird, by the presentation. President Du- he salvaged a feather from it. In mont also carved a cradle for the Aboriginal cultures the eagle repre- eagle feather out of yellow cedar sents the most powerful of spiritual and presented this to President powers, and when the bird dies, Lipinski. Métis Voyageur Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 21

Celebrating and recognizing 20 years of achievement

A major focus of the AGA was The movie showed how the MNO looking back at how far the MNO began with grassroots Métis people, has come in two decades. One of the it described the hunt for justice that most poignant reminders of the ex- led to the Powley court case victory tend of the change the MNO facili- and the Harvesting Agreement and tated was made by MNO founding how the MNO and the Ontario gov- President Tony Belcourt, speaking ernment eventually signed the MNO- during the AGA Opening Ceremo- Ontario Framework Agreement and nies. Belcourt marvelled how today started to work together for the bene- the MNO enjoys such a positive fit of all Métis. The movie concluded relationship with the Ontario gov- by looking ahead to how Métis youth ernment when in the past it was the are now learning about Métis cul- Ontario government that had placed ture and heritage and will become a bounty on the head of Louis Riel the leaders of the future. The movie and where the government had received rave reviews from all in at- for so long even denied “the very tendance and so impressed Minister existence of the Métis in the prov- Zimmer that he announced that it ince.” Past President Belcourt who was his intention to share the movie led the MNO through its difficult not only with his own party’s caucus early years when as he put it, “Mé- but with the two opposition party tis came up full force against the caucuses as well. “I have received entrenched racism of the govern- many technical and other briefings ment of Ontario,” had nothing but [about the Métis],” he stated, “but praise for the current government none has ever done as good a job as of Premier Kathleen Wynne, saying your movie in explaining the issues that he found her video message to faced by your people.” The movie MNO citizens at the AGA “heartfelt, is currently being re-mastered and, sincere and true.” once complete it will be posted on The new positive relationship the MNO website and copies will be (top left) PCMNO Councillor Peter Rivers thanks MNBC President Dumont and presents him with Métis spoons enjoyed between the MNO and On- distributed for use in communities. and the very popular medallion that recognizes the 20th anniversary of the MNO and the 10th anniversary tario government was emphasized The MNO also received con- of the Powley decision. (top right) Métis Nation of Alberta President Audrey Poitras speaking during the AGA th by the presence of four provincial gratulations on its 20 anniversary Opening Ceremonies. (botton left) The Honourable David Zimmer, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs, speaking during cabinet ministers during the AGA from many special guests who at- AGA Opening Ceremonies. (bottom right) President Lipinski with the gift presented by the Métis Nation of opening ceremonies: Aboriginal Af- tended the Welcome to the AGA Alberta recognizing the MNO’s 20th anniversary. fairs Minister David Zimmer, Minis- activities and/or the AGA Opening ter of Labour Yasir Naqvi, Minister Ceremonies. Among these were Responsible for Francophone Affairs Métis National Council President and Minister of Safety and Correc- Clement Chartier and Métis Nation tional Services Madeleine Meilleur of Alberta (MNA) President Audrey and earlier at a Long Term Energy Poitras. President Poitras frequently Plan meeting Minister of Energy Bob attends MNO AGAs and the MNO Chiarelli. Each brought greetings at and MNA signed a Memorandum the AGA. Minister Zimmer spoke of Understanding at the 2010 MNO about the importance of the 2008 AGA. “You always make me feel at MNO-Ontario Framework Agree- home,” she told the assembled citi- ment in establishing the current zens. On behalf of the MNA, Presi- positive relationship between the dent Poitras presented President two governments and predicted Lipinski with mounted beaded moc- “real progress on the Métis file” in casins that featured the inscription: the near future. On behalf of the “To symbolize the long road walked Ontario government, Minister Zim- by our Métis ancestors, our leaders, mer presented the MNO with an elders, veterans and families. The original painting titled “Great Moth- road we as youth will walk; proudly er” by noted Aboriginal artist Nor- into the future . . .” val Morrisseau in recognition of the One of the organizations that MNO’s 20th anniversary. In thanking the MNO currently enjoys a strong the Minister, President Lipinski de- relationship with is the Ontario Fed- scribed the government of Ontario eration of Indian Friendship Centres as a “willing partner” and credited (OFIFC), which was represented at the positive relationship between the AGA by Executive Director Syl- the MNO and Ontario for much of via Maracle. In honour the MNO’s the progress Métis people have seen 20th anniversary, Executive Director in recent years. Maracle presented President Lipin- The incredible progress the MNO ski with a painting symbolizing “a has made in 20 years was also a ma- good path; a good mind” that rep- jor theme of the documentary film, resented how the Métis bring to- Métis Nation of Ontario: 1993-2013, gether two worlds and two paths. which was premiered during the In thanking the OFIFC, President Welcome to the AGA activities the Lipinski commented on the com- first night of the gathering. The one- mitment of the MNO and OFIFC to hour movie featured interviews with work together. “Together we make over 26 people including President a difference and overcome serious (top) On behalf of the Ontario Federation of Indian Friendship Centres, Sylvia Maracle presents President Lipinski, Past President Belcourt, challenges,” he said. Lipinski with a gift recognizing the MNO’s 20th Anniversary. (middle left) The Honourable Yasir Naqvi, Minister MNO Chair France Picotte, MNO Other speakers who spoke dur- of Labour, speaking during the AGA Opening Ceremonies. (middle right) Member of Parliament Dr. Carolyn Vice-chair Sharon McBride, MNO ing the AGA Opening Ceremonies Bennett speaking during AGA Opening Ceremonies. (bottom left) The Honourable Madeleine Meilleur, Minister Secretary-Treasurer Tim Pile, Ex- included Ottawa Deputy Mayor Responsible for Francophone Affairs and Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services, speaking ecutive Senator Reta Gordon as well Steve Desroches, Members of Par- during the AGA Opening Ceremonies. (bottom middle) Member of Parliament Royal Galipeau speaking during as rare footage and interviews with liament Dr. Carolyn Bennett and the AGA Opening Ceremonies. (bottom right) Janine Giffore, Assistant Deputy Minister of Training, Colleges Steve Powley and Marion Larkman. (Continued on page 18) and Universities speaking during the AGA Opening Ceremonies. Métis Voyageur 22 Fall 2013, Issue no. 77

(top left) Hillary Thatcher speaking during the AGA Opening Ceremonies. She became the Assistant Deputy Minister of Aboriginal Relations & Ministry Partnerships in the Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs. (top middle) MNO founding President Tony Belcourt with his successor President Lipinski during the AGA Opening Ceremonies. (top right) The MNO’s founding President Tony Belcourt displaying a copy of the fi rst MNO newspaper during the AGA Opening Ceremonies. (middle left) Talented Métis classical songstress Rebecca Cuddy performing during the MNO 20th Anniversary Feasts, Dinner Theatre and Dance. (middle right) Clement Chartier, President of the Métis National Council, speaking during the AGA Opening Ceremonies. (bottom left) Sharon McBride, MNO Vice-chair and Spokesperson for the Women’s Secretariat of the MNO makes her report to the AGA. (bottom middle) Provisional Council of the MNO (PCMNO) members on stage during the AGA Opening Ceremonies. (bottom right) MNO Chair France Picotte makes her report to the AGA.

(Continued from page 17) 3. Other welcome guests who at- tion College; Murray Sang, Director and the newly minted MNO anni- Doug Wilson and designed by Mé- Royal Galipeau. Janine Giffore, As- tended either the Welcome to the of Student Academic Success at the versary medallion created to recog- tis graphic artist Marc St. Germain, sistant Deputy Minister for Train- AGA or the Opening Ceremony University of Ottawa; Alexander nize both the MNO’s 20th anniver- one side of the medallion features ing, Colleges and Universities spoke were: Jim McDonnell, Member of Bezzina, Deputy Minister of Chil- sary and the 10th anniversary of R. the iconic Métis voyageur canoe and as did Hillary Thatcher from OPA, the Provincial Parliament for Stor- dren and Youth Services and, Darryl v. Powley. These medallions given the other a profi le of Steve Powley. who became the Assistant Deputy mont-Dundas-South Glengarry; Sturtevant, Assistant Deputy Minis- to each MNO Citizen registered for These medallions insured that ev- Minister for Aboriginal Relations Paul DeVillers, Chair of the Métis ter of Children and Youth Services;. the AGA proved very popular and eryone who attended the AGA came and Partnerships with the Ministry Voyageur Development Fund; Dr. All of the dignitaries and special were very much in demand. Created away with an excellent keepsake of of Aboriginal Affairs on September Jim Madder, President of Confedera- guests received Métis musical spoons by MNO Chief Operating Offi cer the dual anniversaries of 2013.

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF MNO LEADERSHIP

Congratulations Metis Nation of Ontario on 20 years of success, leadership and positive contributions. Detour Gold is proud to celebrate this achievement with you and look forward to many more years of collaboration.

(top) The newly minted MNO anniversary medallion created to recognize both the MNO’s 20th anniversary and the 10th anniversary of R. v. Powley. (bottom) MNO Secretary-Treasurer WWW.DETOURGOLD.COM Tim Pile makes his report to the AGA. Métis Voyageur Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 23

Everyone doing the same dance

At the 2012 AGA, President Manager of Projects and Partner- “children, youth and grandmothers Training and Healing and Wellness Lipinski had challenged all MNO ships Scott Carpenter set up an ex- were all up doing the same dance.” also provided updates on child and citizens to work to help Métis chil- tensive display of Métis artifacts and President Lipinski also updated youth activities in their respective dren and youth become all they can providing entertainment at the 20th ...children, citizens on the progress of his youth areas. Their report included a re- be. One obvious result of the Presi- Anniversary Feast, Dinner Theatre initiative in an “Our Youth – Our view of the progress being made in dent’s initiative was that the 2013 and Dance and during the afternoon youth and Future” report. He reminded citizens having Métis-specifi c concerns taken had one of the largest and strongest of Métis cultural activities. The en- grandmothers that providing support and positive into account in the current process youth contingents ever present at ergetic presence of the young people attention is one of the best ways to of reforming Aboriginal children and an AGA. Over 50 youth were in at- was especially noticeable at social were all up help youth succeed, especially those youth services. The success of exist- tendance which more than doubled events. President Lipinski noted that doing the same who are not getting support else- ing MNO youth programs such as the number from 2012. Youth also at the 20th Anniversary Feast, Din- where, and that this is something ev- the Summer Youth Cultural Program, played a number of important roles ner Theatre and Dance that every- dance.” eryone can do. As part of the report, Infi nite Reach and the MNO Youth in the AGA including helping MNO one kept dancing until midnight as the MNO Directors of Education and Council were also discussed.

(left) MNO Summer Cultural Students demonstrate traditional Métis dancing. (top right) PCMNO Post-secondary Representative Jennifer Henry, MNO President Lipinski, MNBC President Bruce Dumont. (middle right) MNO Ottawa Métis Council President Chris Lavigne and friend (bottom right) Members of the MNO Summer Cultural Student program.

The busiest year in Métis rights in history

Long-time MNO lawyers Jean plications in Ontario because of the of the federal government would Teillet and Jason Madden provided “outstanding promises” made to be an important step in forcing the extensive reviews of the main Métis Métis in Ontario such as during the federal government to begin nego- rights cases that are currently before Robinson Treaty discussions. tiations with the Métis on a whole the courts or where decisions had range of issues. Mr. Madden pointed been recently obtained. In discuss- out, however, that there is a problem ing the wide array of cases Ms. Teil- with the Federal Court’s ruling in let commented that “this is likely What you [MNO that they did not defi ne Métis in line the busiest year for Métis rights in with the Powley defi nition and it is history.” citizens] do on hoped that this will be corrected by The two major cases discussed a day-to-day rulings from higher courts. were the recent Manitoba Metis Feder- In addition to running through ation (MMF) v. Canada Supreme Court basis, is part the implications of a number of case which had recently been won of knowledge other cases, Mr. Madden also en- by the MMF, and the Daniels Case, couraged the MNO to continue which although won at the Federal gathering that its traditional knowledge studies. Court had been recently appealed helps our ongoing “What you [MNO citizens] do on by the federal government. While a day-to-day basis,” he explained, the MMF had been successful at the legal causes.” speaking of traditional knowledge Supreme Court, Ms. Teillet predicted - Métis Lawyer Jason Madden studies, “is part of knowledge gath- that the issues coming out of the case ering that helps our ongoing legal would not be resolved for around 25 causes.” Métis rights is therefore not (top) Métis lawyer Jason Madden makes a point while PCMNO years. Despite the expected elongated The Daniels Case also has po- just something that lawyers fi ght Regional Councillor Pauline Saulnier and MNO Vice-chair Sharon McBride timeline, the MMF case should be tentially far-reaching consequences for in court but is a fi eld in which listen carefully. (bottom) Métis Lawyer Jean Teillet provided extensive crucial in establishing a land claims for Métis. The Federal Court rul- all MNO citizens can make a con- reviews of the main Métis rights cases that are currently before the process for Métis and will have im- ing that Métis are a responsibility tribution. courts or where decisions had been recently obtained. Métis Voyageur 24 Fall 2013, Issue no. 77

Celebrating Métis culture

As is the case every year, Métis friend of the MNO, Virginia Barter forest mushrooms, cornmeal crusted Country Music Television. The MNO culture and heritage were front and who provided an introduction to pickerel and corn soup with smoked Summer Youth Cultural students centre throughout the AGA. This the work. Starring the Métis Fiddler pork served with bannock. Métis fi d- gave the evening a lighter touch with year MNO leaders joined by dig- Quartet and actor dlers and jiggers per- humorous skits and songs that they nitaries and a much appreciated John Houston, the formed while attend- had written themselves while award- contingent of strong Métis youth performance de- ees entered the room winning Métis author Joseph Boyden departed from Victoria Island in picts Métis partici- which was followed provided a dramatic reading from his the Ottawa River in three tradition- pation in the War Métis by an opening prayer latest book. The evening concluded al Métis voyageur canoes. From of 1812. Filled by Senator Reta Gor- with everyone out on the fl oor to there they paddled vigorously to with both drama culture don and remarks by the 50s and 60s band the Fabulous reach docks adjacent to the Cana- and humour, the President Lipinski. Heartbeats. Their energetic singing dian Museum of Civilization, where performance re- and President Lipinski kept everyone dancing to midnight hundreds of MNO citizens greeted ceived a thunder- then presented the but the highlight of the night was them with enthusiastic cheers. Once ous standing ova- heritage 2013 Suzanne Ro- a proposal from Jim Richardson to the canoes had arrived and their tion and was a chon-Burnett Volun- PCMNO Regional Councillor Pauline passengers disembarked, a proces- powerful reminder were front teer of the Year Award Saulnier (she accepted). sion led by a MNO veterans colour that the Métis had to Senator Brenda The following afternoon, AGA party, with musical accompaniment been fighting for and centre Powley (see page delegates were able to take a break by members of the Métis Fiddler Canada, before 30 for the complete from AGA business and travel to Quartet and Summer Cultural Stu- there was a Can- throughout story) and then an nearby Victoria Island where they dent Alicia Blore, paraded into the ada. evening of great en- took part in Métis cultural activities. Museum of Civilization for the Wel- The follow- the AGA.” tertainment followed. The afternoon featured the always come to the AGA ceremonies. ing evening, AGA The evening fea- popular Métis Voyageur Games, Once in the Museum, MNO citi- participants were treated to a Métis tured a pair of Métis songstresses. where citizens were able to compete zens fi lled up an auditorium where cultural extravaganza at the MNO Rebecca Cuddy is a classically trained with each other in activities based on after greetings from MNO Chair 20th Anniversary Feast, Dinner The- singer currently majoring in vocal the lives of the original voyageurs. France Picotte and MNO President atre and Dance. This sold out event performance at the University of There were also Métis craft activities Lipinski, they were treated to a per- featured live entertainment with at- Western Ontario and Loma Row- and entertainment and a mouth-wa- formance of Corps de Voyageurs: Sol- tendees dressing in traditional Mé- linson who has performed at many tering barbeque staged by the three diers in Capotes. This is an original tis garb while enjoying traditional AGAs is well-known for her success- AGA host community councils; the production written by MNO citizen, Métis fare, served family style, such ful musical career in the 1990s when High Land Waters, Ottawa and Pe- past staff member and long-time as bison meatloaf, elk ragout with she was a staple on country radio and terborough Wapiti Métis Councils.

(top right) MNO citizens test their aim as part of the Métis Voyageur Games. (middle right) Senator Bob Mckay (showing off his new haircut) and friend. (bottom right) Long- time MNO citizen Andre Bosse. (left) MNO Infi nite Reach Facilitator Sahra Maclean dishes out some tasty burgers during the barbeque. (top) Many citizens enjoyed the Métis crafts demonstrations and activities. (bottom left) MNO Veteran Guy Mandeville, PCMNO Youth Representative Mitch Case and MNO Northern Lights Métis Council President Urgil Courville (bottom right) Three great Métis Nation leaders (left to right) Métis Nation British Columbia President Bruce Dumont; Métis Nation of Alberta President Audrey TOGETHER WE CAN Poitras; and MNO President Gary Lipinski

Cliffs Natural Resources has proposed the development of a chromite mine based in the McFauld’s Lake area of Northern Ontario known as the Ring of Fire. Cliffs chromite project can positively impact Northern Ontario through:

• Job opportunities • Development of local services and infrastructure, including transportation • Increased demand for local and regional goods and services • Indirect economic benefits, including increased local and regional economic activity • Economic opportunities for Aboriginal people • Increased investment in local communities

Cliffs strives to build strong and valuable partnerships with the communities we operate in. Together, we can enhance the possibilities for future generations in Northern Ontario.

Métis Voyageur Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 25

Together we make a difference and overcome serious challenges...” — President Lipinski

We work for the Métis people of Ontario

President Lipinski, MNO Chair France Picotte and other AGA speakers consistently took time throughout the AGA to recognize and thank I am always MNO staff for their hard work and dedication both during the AGA as impressed by well as throughout the entire year. “I the dedication am always impressed by the dedication of our staff,” declared President of our staff, Lipinski during the AGA Opening they give 100 Ceremonies, “they give 100 per cent of their effort and dedication.” Presi- per cent of dent Lipinski attributed the positive their effort and work attitude of MNO staff to what many staff tell him when he thanks dedication.” them for their service. “We work for — President Lipinski the Métis people of Ontario,” staff (top) Paddlers in the second and third canoes to arrive at the Museum work hard to get to the docks. (bottom) members explain. MNO staff and Métis youth.

(top) MNO Infi nite Property Service team members Robyn Maluga, Rene Ducharme and Rose Ann Cornier at the MNO AGA cultural day. (bottom) MNO Community Support Services Coordinator Jody Day and MNO Healthy Babies Health Children Coordinator Lisa Talbot during the MNO Healing and Wellness training prior to the AGA. Métis Voyageur 26 Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 MNO leaders and governing bodies AGAs provide the opportunity for MNO citizens in leadership positions throughout Ontario to get together and discuss issues impacting their respective jurisdictions.

MNO Community Council Presidents at the 2013 MNO Annual General Assembly. (Left to right) front row: Lisa McCron, Liliane Ethier, Deidre Thompson, Sandy Triskle, Marlene Davidson, Valerie Pelepetz , Joanne Young and Alvina Cimon. middle row: Robert Bird, Andrew Dufrane, kim Powley, Derrick Pont, President Lipinski, Cora Bunn, Jean Camirand, Roger Giroux and Richard Cuddy. Back row: keith Henry, Chris Lavigne, Andrew Good, William Gordon, Nelson Montreuil, David Hamilton, Urgil Courville, David Dusome, Alain Lefebrve, Marc Laurin, Peter Couture and Trent Desulniers.

MNO Veterans’ Council (left to right) Greg Garratt, CD (Sergeant-at-Arms), Chris Plummer The 2013 AGA had one of the largest contingent of youth ever. Besides the members CD (Treasurer). Guy Madeville, CD (Chair), Métis Veteran Alex Boucher (not part of council), of the MNO Youth Council there were also members of the Métis Summer Youth Cultural Joseph Paquette (President) and Dr. Alis kennedy, CD, OMC (Senator). Project, Infi nite Reach facilitators and community council youth representatives present.

Thank You TO THESE BRONZE SPONSORS FOR THEIR GENEROUS SUPPORT OF THE 2013 ANNUAL AGA

Deep Geologic OPG Repository Project Métis Voyageur Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 27

MNO Captians of the Hunt at the 2013 MNO Annual General Assembly. (Left to right) Back row: Tom Thompson WSMNO Spokesperson and Representatives (left to right) Back: Pearl Jr. (Region 6), Peter Rivers (Region 9) and Greg Garratt (Region 7). second row: ken Simard (Region 2), Andy Gabona and Barbaranne Wright Front: Candace Lloyd and WSMNO Lefebvre (Region 3), Gerry Bedford (Region 8), Richard Sarrazin (Region 5) and Art Bennett (Region 4). Front row: Spokesperson, Sharon McBride Louise Goulding (Deputy Chief COTH), Patricia Thibault (Region 6) and MNO President Gary Lipinski (Chief COTH).

MNO Senators at the 2013 Annual General Assembly. (Left to right) front row: Joe Poitras, Verna Brunnelle, Terry Bloom, Lois McCallum, Robert Lloyd, Reta Gordon, Rene Gravelle and Dora McInnis. middle row: Bob Mckay, Audrey Vallee, Cecile Wager, Patricia Dryden, Micheline Boisvert, Brenda Powley and Malcom Dixon. Back row: Gerry Bedford, Eugene Contant, Romeo Sarrazin, Roland St. Germain, Al Roussin, kempton Gravelle, Larry Duval, John George and Ray Bergie.

Thank You TO THESE BRONZE SPONSORS FOR THEIR GENEROUS SUPPORT OF THE 2013 ANNUAL AGA Métis Voyageur 28 Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 To educate, preserve, remember…

ne of the innovative and the fellow veterans, youth and the exciting aspects of this museum tour guide. Oyear’s AGA was the inter- The headstone formerly marked action between Métis youth and the grave of one of the 6,846 un- veterans. identifi ed Canadian soldiers left on On the Friday morning prior to the fi elds of France and Belgium. the start of the AGA, the MNO Vet- On November 11 at 11:00 am every erans’ Council and designated Métis year the sun shines through the win- youth toured the Canadian War Mu- dow and illuminates the tombstone seum and National war monuments. mounted on the wall. While waiting for the tour to A unique experience for youth, begin at the entrance of the Cana- they were able to learn and recog- dian Museum of War, MNO Vet- nize the sacrifi ces made for their fu- erans’ Council Sgt-at-arms Greg ture while listening to the personal Garret read the Museum’s mandate stories and memories of the veterans off the wall, “to educate, preserve, throughout the tour. remember….” and said “this sym- “I feel honoured to be here,” bolizes what it is we are doing here explained one of the youth in at- today.” tendance Christine Skura. “It is very touching.” One of the exhibits visited was the Nose Art exhibit. Nose Art is a form of A unique aircraft graffi ti where decorative draw- experience for ings or designs were painted on the fuselage of military aircrafts. These youth, they were were used to express individuality and able to learn and were a form of a good luck charm during the World Wars. recognize the While viewing the Nose Exhibit, sacrifi ces made for Veterans’ Council President Joseph Paquette shared a story about his their future while dear friend, the late Senator and listening to the Veteran Earl “Boots” Scofi eld. Sena- tor Scofi eld had made a Nose Art personal stories during his time in the Royal Cana- and memories of dian Air Force during World War II and the council believes it is in the veterans...” the museum’s collection. In an earlier article written for the Voyaguer, Senator Scofi eld recalled the story, The mandate means “By edu- which President Paquette shared cating present and future genera- with the youth, on how he got his tions on Canada’s military heritage, nickname. preserving historical artifacts, and On January 4, 1945, while at- encouraging Canadians to refl ect on tempting to take off for a bombing past sacrifi ces - will help to ensure mission. We left the runway and that the memory and meaning of passed between stockpiles of bombs. Canada’s military past will never be At a speed of over 100 miles per forgotten.” hour, we crashed into the trees on One of the veterans on the tour the far side of the aerodrome. At was World War II veteran Alex impact, I was thrown out of the tail Boucher who is 100 years and eight turret and fl ew through the air and months young. This was his fi rst vis- landed on a fallen tree. I had hurt it to Ottawa which was arranged by my legs and my back. I was blown the MNO Veterans’ Council. Later right out of my fl ight boots, but got during the AGA opening ceremonies up and ran until my legs could no he was be presented with the MNO longer support me. Our bomber Louis Riel Medal and certificate exploded and burned up. All of our by MNO President Gary Lipinski. crew got out with only burns and Boucher received a standing ovation minor injuries. and was introduced by Chair France It was through these added sto- Picotte. “We are very honoured to ries that the youth were able to gain have Mr. Boucher in our presence,” an understanding of not only the she stated. “The wisdom he must history that is preserved in the mu- hold. Just imagine what those eyes seum, but of the sacrifi ces made by have seen and what those ears have Canadians and the very veterans in heard.” the room. During the tour of the museum, “I feel very honoured to be a Boucher provided one of the most part of this tour,” said youth del- poignant moments of the day. Once egate Terry Lynn Koury. “With the inside Memorial Hall where the veterans here I get to really see what headstone of the Unknown Soldier it is like and have gained newfound is mounted on the wall, he rose out respect for what has been done for (top) MNO veterans and youth in front of the Canadian War Museum at the start of their tour. (middle) One of his wheelchair and placed his our futures - I feel it in my heart.” hundred years and eight month old Métis veteran Alex Boucher placing his poppy on the Tomb of the Unknown poppy on the headstone. The mo- Following the tour of the mu- Soldier at the National War Memorial. (bottom) MNO Infi nite Reach Facilitator Christine Skura chatting with ment brought tears to the eyes of seum MNO Registrar and veteran Métis veteran Alex Boucher during the Canadian War Museum tour. Métis Voyageur Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 29

Jane Brenan guided a bus tour to several National war monuments. During the bus tour the veterans and youth visited the National Aboriginal Veterans Monument. The monument was raised “in sa- cred and everlasting honour of the contributions of all Aboriginal Ca- nadians in war and peacekeeping operations.” The second stop was the Na- tional War Memorial and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The tomb holds the remains of an unidenti- fied Canadian soldier who died in France during World War I. The un- identified soldier was selected from a cemetery in the vicinity of Vimy Ridge, the site of a famous Canadian battle of the First World War. The East and West Memorial Buildings were also visited. These once housed the Department of Veterans Affairs. The buildings are linked by the Memorial Arch and a garden with a large stone relief to honour those who fought in the Second World War. “This is a first in MNO history,” stated President Paquette. “The veterans’ involvement in this capacity is great. We are taking new strides.” The MNO Veterans’ Council took the AGA as an opportunity to hold a council meeting and hand out additional Louis Riel Medals and Ba- toche Medals. Veterans Steven Cal- laghan and Alex Boucher received Batoche medals and Veteran Brenda Michaud received a Louis Riel Medal and a Batoche Medal. Veterans who will be receiving their medals in the near future include Lorna K. Burke, Derek Anderson, Shelly Claus, Rich- ard Bartlette, Edward J. Dorian and Rene Leonard.

(left) One hundred years and eight month old Métis veteran Alex Boucher receiving a Métis sash and Batoche medal from the MNO Veterans’ Council and MNO Chair France Picotte. (right) Métis youth and veterans at the National Aboriginal Veterans Monument in Ottawa. Thank You to These Silver sponsors for their Generous support of the 2013 Annual AGA Abitibi/Temiscamingue & James Bay Territories Consultation Committee Métis Voyageur 30 Fall 2013, Issue no. 77

Senator Brenda Powley recieves the 2013 Suzanne Rochon-Burnett Volunteer of the Year Award from MNO President Gary LIpinski at hte 2013 MNO AGA.

Suzanne Rochon-Burnett Award Volunteer of the Year

he objective of the Suzanne Rochon- Over the years, Senator Powley has made dedicated to the betterment of the Métis Criteria Burnett Volunteer of the Year Award is signifi cant contributions to the Métis Na- Nation. “Brenda works as the matriarch of The individuals nominated must exemplify to recognize individuals who con- tion. a very strong active Métis family, supporting T the kind of volunteer contribution demon- tribute as a volunteer to the Métis Nation of “The Senator is present at every com- her husband Steve and son Roddy along strated by Suzanne Rochon-Burnett. They will Ontario (MNO) year round and have done munity council meeting, council or staff with the Métis Nation of Ontario in the have given generously of their time and effort, so for a number of years. Each year a vol- support event from set up until clean up, ten year battle to secure our Métis hunting are strong advocates of the Métis Nation and unteer meeting the criteria is named as the always the fi rst to volunteer to do the work rights,” said a nominator. their record of selfl ess commitment has been recipient of the Suzanne-Rochon Volunteer that needs to be done,” explained one of Nominations for the Volunteer of the Year fi rmly established. They are seen as caring, of the Year by a selection committee of the the nominators. “She worked tirelessly to Award required a written letter, limited to giving individuals who others look up to and MNO. support her husband and other community 1,000 words, describing why the nominee admire. The candidates will have provided The 2013 Suzanne Rochon-Burnett Vol- members in the establishment of the Sault should be selected. an extended period of service as a volunteer. unteer of the Year was presented to Senator Ste. Marie Métis Council and in the opening “Brenda could never be replaced in our Brenda Powley. Past winners of the award of the Sault Métis Centre.” community and without her, our Métis About Dr. Suzanne Rochon- have included: Senator Powley also dedicates much of community would not be the same…With Burnett Suzanne Rochon-Burnett, Richard Sar- her time with youth and to sharing and only 1000 words it is diffi cult to express the razin, Senator Reta Gordon, Louise Gould- teaching Métis culture and history. achievements and dedication of this incred- Dr. Suzanne Rochon-Burnett was a founding, Pauline Saulnier,Senator Gordon “Brenda is wholly committed to ensur- ible Métis woman,” concluded one of the ing member of the Métis Nation of Ontario. Calder, Senator Marlene Greenwood and Sena- ing that our distinct Métis Way of Life is nominators. Named to the Order of Canada and the Or- tor Olivine Tiedema. passed on to future generations of young, The award was presented by MNO Presi- der of Ontario, Suzanne was a member of Senator Powley was nominated by sev- healthy Métis people,” said one of the dent Gary Lipinski at the 20th Anniversary the Canada Council and was awarded an eral MNO citizens who outlined the reasons nominators. “Under the auspices of the Feast, Dinner Theatre and Dance during Honorary Doctorate by Brock University they believed she should be selected as this Sault Métis Dance Club, Brenda and Anne the 2013 MNO Annual General Assembly where she served on the Board of Trustees. year’s Volunteer of the Year. [Trudel] visited almost every school in the in Ottawa. Senator Powley was thrilled and She was a recipient of a Lifetime Achieve- “Senator Powley has served the Métis district to do presentations on Métis his- shocked to receive the award. ment Award from the National Aboriginal Nation tirelessly for the past two decades as tory, culture and dance; helping Métis chil- “It was kind of a funny moment because Achievement Foundation and the first a community member, organizer and Sena- dren to understand their history as well as I really didn’t see it coming. I had actu- woman inducted into the Aboriginal Busi- tor since the mid 2000s,” stated one of the [provide] First Nations and non-Aboriginal ally nominated someone else,” said Senator ness Hall of Fame. Suzanne passed away in nominators. “Brenda has volunteered thou- children with an opportunity to understand Powley. “It is very nice to be honoured with 2006. To honour her memory and recognize sands of hours to our community, helping who the Métis are.” this award; there are so many hard working her outstanding service as a volunteer, in organize feast, dances, information sessions, One of the nominators stated that she people who deserve it. Everyone does so 2006, the Métis Nation of Ontario named AGMs and has represented this community “played a very big role in getting me in- much for the Métis community. It is hard to Suzanne as the fi rst recipient of the inau- and the MNO as a whole on numerous com- volved as a youth in the MNO.” pick one person because we work together; gural Volunteer of the Year Award which now mittees and boards.” Much of Senator Powley’s life has been it’s just who we are.” bears her name.

Thank you to the Friends of the MNO for their Generous support of the 20th Annual AGA Métis Voyageur Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 31

My favourite part of the AGA… We asked AGA delegates what they enjoy most about the AGA. Here is what some of them said.

“I really liked the movie. I’m 20 years old so it “It was really great to see the lawyers’ “This is my first AGA and it helped me find my is really cool to see the leaders work from my perspective to everything we have been reading true self. I had so many amazing experiences birth to now so I can really visualize how much about in the courts.” with meeting fellow Métis youth. Everyone is so has changed just in my life time. Just imagine accepting – it feels like one big family.” how much will change in the next 20 years.” – Brianne Madonna, MNO Summer Cultural Student - Johnathon Falvo, MNO Summer Cultural Student – Jennifer Henry, PCMNO Post-secondary Representative “Always a great to see new and old friends from the founding to now.” “I loved the dinner; we even got up and danced. “Had a great time dancing throughout the – Senator Lois McCallum The time has gone by so fast – where did it go?” night. The Fabulous Heartbeats were very entertaining.” “It’s great to touch base with constituents within – Senator Brenda Powley the province to discuss concerns, wellbeing and – Janine Landry, MNO Youth Council Representative share best practices.” “I think my favourite part was the sugar pies they had at the feast. Boyden was also very “Getting together is always what I love most – Peter Rivers, PCMNO Councillor impressive, a close second.” about the AGAs. The top moment for me was listening to Tony speak during the opening – Senator Malcom Dixon ceremonies. It was amazing to see him back on “My favourite part of this AGA was to see the the stage that he built.” 20 years of progress in the MNO movie.” – , President of the MNO Northwest – MNO Vice-Chair Alvina Cimon Sharon McBride, Métis Council

(left) MNO citizens cut a rug during the MNO 20th Anniversary Feast, Dinner Theatre and Dance. (right) MNO Chair France Picotte with Senator Brenda Powley.

• A brief description of your per- Please know that your personal sonal experience with cancer (e.g. stories and insights about cancer are type, length of time, treatment highly meaningful to MNO’s efforts Call for status etc.) to improve health care and treatment • A brief explanation of why you options for Métis citizens in Ontario. are interested in the project and MNO staff will be on hand at all times Participants would like to be involved during the two day session and will make every effort to ensure that you We are particularly interested in hear- are comfortable and that the meeting Métis Cancer Treatment ing about the experiences of Métis is a positive experience that is carried people living in rural and northern out in a respectful, supportive environ- Journey Project communities as well as those living in ment. more urban areas. For this reason, we The MNO is seeking submissions from The focus group will also help the will be selecting participants from vari- All letters and other correspondence Métis citizens from across the province MNO and its partners, the Canadian ous regions across the province. should be addressed to: who are willing to share their personal Partnership Against Cancer and Cancer cancer story and experience with the Care Ontario, learn about key quality Due to the limited resources available, Whitney Montgomery health care system. This may be your and continuity of care issues facing it is possible that not all people who Chronic Disease Surveillance (CDSP) own personal story, or the experience Métis people in Ontario, and across are interested in being involved will be Project Coordinator of someone close to you (e.g. family the full spectrum of health care. selected, but all applicants will receive 500 Old St Patrick Street, Unit D member, close friend etc.). a response from the MNO and have an Ottawa, ON K1N 9G4 Interested individuals should submit opportunity to provide their input in Tel.: 613-798-1488 ext.130 Specifically, we are bringing together a 1-2 page letter of interest by mail, other ways. Toll Free: 800-263-4889 a group of 10 Métis citizens will be email or fax, no later than 5:00p.m.( Fax: 613-722-4225 invited to participate in a two-day EST) Friday, November 15, 2013. In considering your involvement, [email protected] focus group meeting on December please be assured that the MNO fol- 4-5, 2013 in Ottawa. All participants’ Your letter should include the following lows strict ethical guidelines in any travel costs (ground, air, etc.), meals information: research it undertakes. Your privacy and hotel costs will be covered by the and the confidentiality of any informa- MNO. • Name and contact information tion you provide will therefore be fully (including your address with post- protected at all times. Your personal This project is intended to help us bet- al code; phone number where identity will not be revealed in any ter understand the Métis Cancer Treat- you can be contacted during the project research reports or publica- ment Journey on issues such as access, day; and your email address) tions, and you will not be identified in quality of services, and care outcomes. any other way. Métis Voyageur 32 Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 Achievements Métis recognized

Métis Nation of Ontario Canada’s new ePassport (MNO) citizen and artist Nathalie Bertin designed he design of Canada’s new the newly released TePassport, which was of- fine silver hologram ficially launched on July 1, 2013, coin entitled features the Métis infinity sym- “A story of bol. This is important recognition the Northern of Métis as one of Canada’s Ab- Lights: The original peoples and is another Great Hare” indication of the growing status by the Royal of the Métis in Canada. Canadian Mint. The text accompanying the eP- assport describes the Métis as follows: “The Métis, whose ancestry is traced back to Europeans and First Nations, are represented by the infinity symbol. Featured on page five, the infinity symbol represents the blending of two cultures, Page five of Canada’s new ePassport features the Métis infinity symbol. Aboriginal and European, into one Royal society.” original People – the original people looks like a regular passport, but has First Nations and Inuit are also of North America and their descen- new security features that make the symbolized on this page, entitled dants – are at the very start of the passport even more tamper-proof. Canadian The Symbols of Aboriginal peoples Canadian story. These images are The ePassport contains an electronic in Canada, by the images of an eagle symbolic of their rich cultures and chip that enhances the passport’s Mint coin feather and the inuksuk. history and proudly open Canada’s current security features. The general description of the new e-Passport.” For more details visit: page explains that, “Canada’s Ab- The new Canadian ePassport www.passport.gc.ca ∞ designed by Métis artist he coin displays the “CANADA,” the date “2013” and Métis playwright featured Odawa legend of Nanah- the face value of “20 DOLLARS.” Tboozho sitting by his fire The coin depicts the Northern at Toronto Fringe Festival that creates the northern lights. Lights with a variety of finishes The colourful lights are high- to highlight elements of Canada’s essica Lea Fleming is a writer, lighted with a uniquely shaped northern landscape. actor, improviser, producer hologram that mimics their move- For more information visit: and a Métis Nation of Ontario J ment in the night sky. The reverse www.mint.ca ∞ (MNO) citizen. Her most recent is also engraved with the word play Blue Moon Girls, which she not only wrote and produced but is also performing in, was featured during the Toronto Fringe Festival from July 5-13. Fleming grew up in historic Penetanguishene, a small town on the Georgian Bay that is rich with Métis culture and traditions. It was this upbringing that inspired her work for Blue Moon Girls. Blue Moon Girls is a story of childhood friends and the choices they face when love comes between them. Julie and Sonya meet as teen- agers in the small Métis – French town of Blue Moon, Ontario. Com- plications arise when they both fall in love with Christian, and sacrifices are made by all. Carley Gervais receiving her police badge from OPP Commissioner (left) (right) “For years, I have been trying Chris Lewis and her father, Sgt. Grant Gervais . to shape the story of Blue Moon, based on real and imagined experiences of life in rural Ontario,” said Congratulations Fleming. “With the unflagging en- couragement of Christina Cicko, Officer Carley Justine Moritz and the impeccable instincts of dramaturge and director Gervais! Julia Pileggi, I had the confidence to Submitted by: and her fellow officers are com- write this story from the heart. I am The Gervais family mitted to the safety of the public. excited to present to our audience Congratulations to Carley for a tale of love, friendship and sacri- arley Gervais, daughter of this wonderful achievement and fice. For all the “Blue Moon girls” the Theatre Centre and works as Métis Nation of Ontario best of luck with such an honour- who touched my life, this is ours the Development Manager at the C(MNO) citizen Sgt. Grant able career. Her parents, step-par- to share.” imagineNative Film + Media Arts Gervais, joined the ranks of the ents, siblings, and entire extended Fleming is a recent graduate Festival. Blue Moon Girls is her third Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) family are proud of what she has of the Second City’s Conservatory full-length play. ∞ in August after completing Police achieved at such a young age. Program where she co-created I Foundations and a long, strenu- The Gervais family is grateful Stand Autocorrected and she also Performers of Blue Moon Girls ous training program at Ontario to the MNO for funding part of studied psychology and drama at (left to right) Justine D. Moritz, Police College. Carly’s police training through the University of Guelph. Fleming Christian Smith and Jessica Lea Carley is posted to the OPP MNO Education and Training sits on the Board of Directors for Fleming. Caledon detachment where she programs. ∞ Métis Voyageur Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 33 MéTIS TEEN WINS n’swakamok Aboriginal idol

Nikiann Brideau (right) and classmate working on their WindEng single-bladed turbine. Nikiann Brideau and classmates with their winning wind blade design. uniVersitY oF gueLPh windeng comPetition Métis youth part of innovative team Martine Fortin with her submitted by: Liliane Ethier, dENG wind energy competition. designs for energy-generating wind Brideau said each team created MNO Temiskaming Métis On April 30, Brideau and her turbines and competed for cash its own video and each took about N’Swakamok Aboriginal Idol Council team of classmates from Eastdale prizes. 30 hours to complete. fi rst place trophy Secondary School won fi rst place Brideau’s team’s single-bladed “We know from competing in Information from: Temiskaming Métis submitted by: for most innovative design for their design produced about three watts previous years that a lot of teams News single-bladed turbine. of power and the double-bladed don’t really focus on the video, so Michelle Prévost-Fortin étis Grade 11 student WindENG is an annual high system produced about 10 watts. if we did we could show them we ixteen year old daughter Nikiann Brideau, grand- school design competition. The task The school sent two teams of six knew our stuff through our videos,” of Métis Nation of Ontario daughter of the Métis Na- consists of constructing an energy students to the university. Each cre- she said. M (MNO) citizen Michelle tion of Ontario (MNO) Temiskam- generating wind turbine that uses a ated a video explaining the design One of the videos was a stop- S Prévost-Fostin, Martine Fortin, is ing Métis Council President Liliane DC motor as the generator. Students of the windmill. They later tested motion video and the other a hand- a musician from Sudbury, Ontario Dupuis Ethier, recently competed from 24 schools from Kingston to their designs in the university’s wind drawn animation fi lm comprising who performs in her high school in the University of Guelph’s Win- Toronto to Windsor showed off their tunnel. 2,000 still images. ∞ band at L’école secondaire Mac- donald Cartier. Outside of school, she writes her own lyrics, com- poses her own music, plays the piano and is vocalist for all her original material. Wanting to share her daughter’s talent, Fortin’s mother entered her in the 2013 N’Swakamok Ab- original Idol competition where she would proudly represent the Métis. The competition was held on June 21, 2013, National Aborigi- nal Day, at Bell Park in Sudbury, Ontario. Fortin sang three French original songs, C’est Ridicule, Me Voici and J’hésite, which won her the title of N’Swakamok Aborigi- nal Idol 2013. As part of the fi rst place prize, Fortin won $500.00 cash, a trophy, a photo session by Bruno Henry Photography, a one-on- Métis heritage and culture focus one session with recording artist Jace Martin on how to pursue her of Franco-Ontarian show music career and a stage performance at the 2014 Aboriginals Got n may 14, ottawa area while waiting for the show to begin. period costumes, special effects, aware of the history, culture and Talent. métis were invited to see a The show is a creation of L’écho action scenes, powerful cinemato- heritage of these people in Ontario.” o Congratulations on this great show which celebrates métis art d’un people, a non-profi t community graphic images, humour and heart- In partnership with the Ministry accomplishment! ∞ and culture. the French show en- organization run by volunteers from rending songs as it evoked the pow- of Education, three French and pub- titled, L’écho d’un people fi er et the entire region of Eastern Ontario. erful and much intermingled history lic school boards of the area includ- metises, was held at a downtown The show recounts four centuries of Franco-Ontarians and Métis. ing Cornwall and Ottawa region, the ottawa high school de La salle. of Franco-Ontarians, First Nations “The objective is to provide an show features three generations of Youth reP and Métis peoples’ history through opportunity for Franco-Ontarians local performers on stage. receiVes While attendees were taking 17 frames in 90 minutes. It com- and Métis to express pride in their The show would not be possible their seats, the school auditorium bines theater, music and fi lm to cre- language, their culture and heritage,” without the hard working 250 vol- BursArY fi lled with students who were clap- ate an entertaining performance. It said the shows Artistic Director Fe- unteer actors, dancers, set designers submitted by: Robert Contois, ping along with Métis fi ddle music combines of theatrical magic, dance, lix Saint-Denis. “Also to make them and singers. ∞ Reception at MNO Georgian Bay Métis Council

étis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Georgian Bay MMétis Council Youth Representative Danielle Secord received the Helen Bradley Memorial Bursary in the amount of $3,000 presented by Senator Dora MacIn- nis at the May 1 council meeting. The funds for the bursary came from a grant received from Bruce Power. ∞ Métis Voyageur 34 Fall 2013, Issue no. 77

(left) Maidstone 4H Heritage Club waiting to go on stage for the opening ceremony Aboriginal greeting produced by Donna Grayer. (top right) ICG opening ceremonies. (bottom right) Associate producer, Donna Grayer, MNO Windsor-Essex Métis Council Women’s Representative with family at the ICG opening ceremonies.

MNO citizen produces Aboriginal greeting for 2013 International Children’s Games

Submitted by: Donna Grayer, The IGC is an Olympic sanc- creative director, executive producer children and grandchildren.” sound effects, music, video and so MNO Windsor-Essex Métis tioned youth event. This year’s ICG and choreographer Melissa Wil- The First Nation portion includ- much more was as much fun as it Council Women’s Representative hosted 32 countries and 84 teams liams, at the beginning of the year to ed a traditional song with beautiful was challenging,” she continued. “I to compete in various sports. The help plan the opening ceremonies. regalia with all groups participating met and worked with some of the étis Nation of Ontario Opening Ceremony is an artistic The theme of the opening cer- in three round dances. best in choreography and produc- (MNO) Windsor-Essex multi-faceted spectacle showcasing emonies was to illustrate the con- “The few flukes that happened tion in the area, a few who came MMétis Council Women’s Windsor-Essex culture and talent nection between past, present and would only be noticed by me,” said back, from all over the world, in Representative Donna Grayer was and featuring the Parade of Ath- future. Grayer, “but perfect timing is hard to order to be part of the event and an associate producer for the Métis, letes, live music, dance, aerialists “I incorporated a heritage group do when you are not used to doing represent their home.” First Nations and Inuit greeting per- and specialty performers including to enact the 1812 time period with large productions and little. I was The opening ceremony proved to formed for the 2013 International local young people in most of its the emphasis on Métis Voyageurs,” very happy for the opportunity for be a success and was televised. “The Children’s Games (ICG) opening segments, reflecting the “In Sport explained Grayer. “They were the our community to be involved and entire opening was absolutely breath ceremony held on August 15 in We Are One” theme. Maidstone 4H Heritage Group. I to experience such an event.” taking,” said Grayer. “I was humbled Windsor Essex. Grayer was asked by the game’s also included our council member’s “The process of creating the right and honored to be part of it.” ∞ Métis Voyageur Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 35

MNO citizens receive Ontario Volunteer Métis Service Award

Submitted by: Nina Henley, youth Secretary of the MNO Kenora Métis Council

ongratulations to Métis Na- receives tion of Ontario (MNO) Ke- Cnora Métis Council members President Joel Henley, Chair Cyndy Laliberte and Secretary Nina Henley, for being the recipients excellence of the Ontario Volunteer Service Award. On May 13, each was recognized for their continuous years of com- award mitment and dedicated service to an organization by the Honourable Submitted by: Liliane Ethier, Michael Coteau, Minister of Citizen- MNO citizens (left to right) Joel Henley, Cyndy Laliberte and Nina MNO Temiskaming Métis ship and Immigration. Both Joel and Henley with their Ontario Volunteer Service Awards. Council President Nina were recognized for five years of continuous service and Cyndy Awards are held at special ceremo- service pin acknowledging their ongratulations to Alison was honoured with a ten year pin. nies across Ontario where recipients years of service, and a personalized Savoie, Métis Nation of The Ontario Volunteer Service are presented with a stylized trillium certificate. ∞ COntario (MNO) Temiska- ming Métis Council Youth Repre- sentative, for being the recipient of the Thomas Black Excellence Award. The Thomas Black Award is presented to an individual for illustrating care and compassion and providing good care. Alison Savoie with her mother Alison was also a participant of and sister (left to right) Terrie the Summer Youth Cultural Inter- Busch-Savoie and Mackenzie preter program last year. ∞ Savoie.

Cover of Métis author K.D. Beckett’s fourth novel.

MNO Northern Lights Métis Council members and citizen with their awards. (Left to right) Sheila Skidmore, Senator Eugene Contant, Secretary/Treasurer Sue Skidmore, President of the CDC Simon Leonard, Chair Lucille Nelson and kneeling in front is Council President Urgel Courville. Cochrane recognizes MNO Northern Lights Council Submitted by: Lucille Nelson, cil members at its 2013 Community Skidmore were awarded for being a MNO Northern Lights Métis Spirit Awards on September 8. 5 Star volunteer. President Courville Council Chair Council members were recog- and and Senator Contant were also nized as Spirit Volunteers. Coun- each awarded a certificate for 20 he Town of Cochrane Com- cil President Urgel Courville was years of dedication. munity Development Cor- awarded a plaque for Volunteer of The night’s entertainment was Tporation (CDC) recently the Year. Senator Eugene Contant, provided by the band Northern recognized Métis Nation of Ontario Chair Lucille Nelson, Secretary/ Image whose lead singer is MNO Métis author (MNO) Northern Lights Métis Coun- Treasurer Sue Skidmore and Sheila citizen Marcel Courville. ∞ Congratulations bronze launches medalist Chasity! fourth novel Submitted by: Tammy Webb, earned a bronze medal for Bantam étis Nation of On- ment, Beckett held a pre-launch MNO Manager of Labour Market Doubles and a second bronze medal tario (MNO) citizen reading and signing session in for Bantam Girls. King would like to MK.D. Beckett recently Gatineau-Hull at the Aboriginal hasity King, the niece of thank everyone in her community launched the fourth novel of her Affairs and Northern Develop- Métis Nation of Ontario who supported her. In Time Saga, Paths in Time on ment Canada lobby. The official C(MNO) Manager of Labour Congratulations on this great June 21, 2013. book launch was held at the Ab- Market Tammy Webb, made her achievement! ∞ Paths in Time follows the lives original Arts Festival in Ottawa way to the Canadian Tenpin Federa- of two Siksika tribes after an un- from June 21-23. tion (CTF) National Bowling Tour- expected tragedy. For more information visit nament in Calgary this past May. Chasity King with her two To celebrate this achieve- www.metispublishing.ca ∞ King bowled in the event and bronze medals. Métis Voyageur 36 Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 Community A beautiful day to celebrate being Métis The Voyageur thanks Senator Solstice Aboriginal Arts Festival held enjoyed the food, so much so that Reta Gordon for her help in in Vincent Massey Park. there was none left to spare. producing this article It was a beautiful sunny day to As the day progressed, attendees share Métis culture and heritage. The enjoyed the musical talents of An- n June 21, Métis from Council has held National Aboriginal thony Brascouper and Ray Girard. across the homeland cel- Day celebrations for the past 14 years The two played traditional Métis Oebrated National Aborigi- and as Ray Girard explained, the sun music for the enjoyment of all. nal Day, a day to celebrate culture has always been shining. The event was the first time the and heritage and to remember the The day’s events included a local Ottawa Métis had the oppor- contributions made by Aboriginal wholesome meal of vegetarian chili, tunity to celebrate with the First Na- Children participating in activities at the MNO Bancroft Family peoples to Canada. banana cake and freshly picked tions and Inuit communities. It was Fun Day. In Ottawa, the Métis Nation of strawberries served my council mem- made possible due to the dedication Ontario (MNO) Ottawa Regional Mé- bers, volunteers and MNO staff. Peo- of the volunteers and a successful tis Council celebrated at the Summer ple from many different backgrounds proposal submitted for funding. ∞ Bancroft Family Fun Day Submitted by: of Bancroft and the Music in the Marsha Depotier, MNO Victim Park festival for evening entertain- Services Coordinator ment. Approximately 250 people attended. n July 10, the Métis Na- MNO staff member Marsha tion of Ontario (MNO) Depotier offered a strawberry Oheld a family fun day in teaching and the local women’s Bancroft. The all-day event took drum group, including MNO place at Riverside Park and fea- staff members Depotier and Judy tured Métis inspired children’s ac- Simpson, offered the Strong tivities such as lacrosse water toss, Women Song to go with the apple jig, flying eagle, voyageur ex- teachings. Participants were of- press, hunters target, rabbit jump, fered strawberry parfait at the end bannock making and admission to of the evening. the local Heritage Museum. MNO staff from the Bancroft The event was a great success and Renfrew offices worked hard Ray Girard singing and dancing next to fiddler Granddaughter of Carmen Pregent, Anabelle Prieur with roughly 83 participants for throughout the day to ensure the Anthony Brascouper during the National Aboriginal with MNO Senator Reta Gordon. the day activities. event would be memorable and Day celebration in Ottawa. MNO partnered with the Town fun for everyone. ∞ Cyber-safety workshop in Midland

Submitted by: Tera Lynn more than we do,” Constable Coul- “I tell the 12 year olds, you Copegog, MNO Community ter explained. He continued to de- should only be friends with people Wellness Coordinator scribe to youth what life was like you know in person on Facebook. before Facebook or email such as If I type that I am a 12 year old girl oday, there is less fear in the process of making a call to a that likes ponies on my post, would using online services for family member across the world and you believe me? If you saw me in Tbanking or purchases, and having to mail pictures to relatives person and I said I am a twelve year more emphasis on appropriate uses and waiting seven days to see them old girl that likes ponies would you of the internet. Being so, the Métis finally. believe me then?” Constable Coul- Nation of Ontario (MNO) held Youth discussed playing ter asked the group. A youth in at- a cyber-safety workshop in games, texting, using Face- tendance, Aleigha responded, “No, Midland. Participants book and keeping in I can see you are a boy.” Constable engaged in conversa- touch with friends Coulter did get his point across to tions, sharing what Cyber on cell phones, the audience. types of technology computers, iPods Constable Coutler then dis- they currently use Safety and tablets. The cussed the issue of cyber bullying and the safety pre- funny thing, not which is an issue in the forefront. cautions they have one of them suggest- He explained that parents need to Participants of the cyber-safety workshop in Midland. (Left to right) in place for themselves ed using these devices for prepare their children to not engage back row : Midland Police Services Constable Aaron Coulter; MNO and their families. school or research purposes. in negative talk and posts they read Community Services Officer Kayla Burns; Sherry Lizotte; Debbie Ferris- MNO staff members Tera Lynn Constable Coulter explained and encourage them to get an adult Giammattolla; MNO Community Support Services Aging at Home Copegog and Lorraine Mountney the importance of security fea- involved as soon as it becomes an Coordinator Kerry Begin; and MNO Community Wellness Coordinator joined together to invite Constable tures on a number of devices and issue. Tera Lynn Copegog. Front Row: Aleigha Jennett Dorion and MNO Aaron Coulter of Midland Police applications and showed a video on “We would rather talk to those Community Support Services staff member Lorraine Mountney, Services to the MNO office in Mid- setting up our Facebook accounts involved prior to something serious land to share with youth and adults to “friends only” for protection and happening to assist these individu- the importance cyber-safety. privacy reasons. als than wait for it to be too bad. posting a picture or posting online The presentation was followed “Good parents educate them- He continued to explain the im- We can often make a difference in is, if you wouldn’t say it in front of by an open discussion. Big thank selves on the computer, because portance of not believing everything the early stages.” Constable Cout- your grandmother or show her the you to Constable Coulter for provid- let’s face it, kids today know way you see on the internet. ler said. “A good rule to use when picture, do not press send.” ing this workshop. ∞ Métis Voyageur Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 37 Increasing awareness about Métis within schools MNO Grand River Métis Council teaches educators and students

Submitted by: Cora Bunn, MNO Grand River Métis Council President ture they bring each and every day to Canadians.” In order to teach all the students he Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Grand River Métis Council in one day, three sessions we held was recently invited to train educators from the Upper Grand simultaneously in the gymnasium. T District School Board and the Wellington Catholic District President Bunn taught the students School Board about Métis heritage and culture. Métis history, culture and how to jig. The students enjoyed the jigging, especially the “freestyle” jigging. One Council Chair Jennifer Parkinson Principal of St. Ignatius of Loyola Kindergarten student did the worm! and Council President Cora Bunn Catholic School, invited the council Senator Carol Levis read stories taught 70 teachers and principals at to spend National Aboriginal Day to the younger students and offered the May Professional Development at his school teaching the students the prayers. Chair Parkinson and Day in Elora. A key resource used about Métis history and culture. her husband Ron Parkinson led the during this training was the MNO almost 600 students in two differ- Métis Education Kit. Contents of the ent crafts. Students from Senior kit included the MNO Métis time- Kindergarten to Grade 4 each made line, posters, a Métis sash, Marcel medicine pouches and grades 5-8

Labelle’s book “Our Knowledge Ca- were taught how to finger weave. MNO Grand River Métis Council teaching students on Aboriginal Day noe”, and the Métis Fiddler Quartet’s celebrate their The finger weaving was done in the at St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic School. CD; all of which sparked a great deal efforts and their school’s colours of gold and purple. of interest from the teachers. Chair Parkinson also shared smudg- The MNO Grand River Métis strengths and ing with the grade 7-8 students. Council display provided a colour- share in the In honour of National Aboriginal ful background for Chair Parkinson Day the school flew the Métis flag and President Bunn to display furs, great culture for the day. The council presented traps and beading which provided they bring each Principal Asselin with a Métis sash. teachers with a hands-on experience The students and teachers gave en- that proved very popular. and every day to thusiastic praise of the interactive A jigging workshop was also Canadians.” teachings they shared with them. held. The Métis Fiddler Quartet’s The teachers and students expressed — Allan Asselin, Principal, CD was blasted through the hall as how they “loved” their day with the St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic School the teachers kicked off their shoes council and have requested that the and learned the basic steps of jig- council returns for two days next ging. Principal Asselin invited the year. Some excellent contacts were Council because he wanted the Local media was invited to St. Ig- made during the event and orders students at his school to recognize natius of Loyola Catholic School by were taken for MNO Education Kits. the contributions of the Métis and Principal Asselin, which resulted in After the training, one of the to “celebrate their efforts and their a large front page article and photo MNO Grand River Métis Council Chair Jennifer Parkinson and Council participants Mr. Allan Asselin, the strengths and share in the great cul- in the Guelph Mercury. ∞ President Cora Bunn training teachers on Métis culture and heritage. Métis kids entertain at International Women’s Day celebration Submitted by: PCMNO Region Councillor Theresa Stenlund; and One Councillor Theresa Hailey Fortier and Lacy Kerr, grand- Stenlund and MNO Kenora children of President and Secretary Métis Council Secretary Nina of the MNO Kenora Métis Council Katelyne Stenlund playing Henley Joel and Nina Henley. the fiddle. The children displayed their Mé- n March 9, members of tis pride and culture for members

Métis children who the Métis Nation of On- of the Kenora community. Katelyne participated at the tario (MNO) Kenora Métis was the co-master of ceremonies International Women’s Day O Council were asked to help celebrate and performed several songs on the (Left to celebration in Kenora, International Women’s Day in Keno- fiddle. She and Hailey demonstrated right) Hailey Fortier, Katelyne ra by providing Métis performances. the sash dance, while Hayden and Stenlund, Hayden Stenlund and Participating in the event were Lacy played the spoons. The three Lacy Kerr. Katelyne and Hayden Stenlund, the girls also demonstrated a second tra- children of Provisional Council of ditional dance for the enjoyment of the MNO (PCMNO) Region One all in attendance. ∞ Métis Voyageur 38 Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 Canoeing the River Canard MNO Windsor-Essex Council visits War of 1812 sites

Submitted by: Donna Grayer, ber who attended brought along MNO Windsor-Essex Métis their children or grandchildren as Council Women’s Representative guests and shared stories about canoeing and Métis culture and n June 2, members of the heritage. Métis Nation of Ontario MNO Windsor-Essex council O(MNO) Windsor-Essex members in attendance were Sena- Métis Council embarked on a heri- tor Bob LeBoeuf, Secretary Sue tage canoe excur- LeBoeuf-Morency, sion that focused on Councillor Wilfred War of 1812 activi- Rochon, Chair Jon ties in the hamlet of It was a day Rochon and Wom- River Canard. enjoyed by en’s Representative Organized by Donna Grayer. Donna Grayer, the all with talks “It was a day trip was guided by of another enjoyed by all with the River Canard talks of another one Canoe Company. one and and with invites go- All ages enjoyed with invites ing deeper into our the scenery, history local Métis commu- lessons, stories and going deeper nity,” said Donna laughs; sometimes into our Grayer. at the expense of There is prog- the tipped canoe local Métis ress being made in riders. community...” finding local Métis River Canard history/settlements — Donna Grayer was the site of an as more families MNO Windsor-Essex Chair Jon Rochon with daughter and others. engagement be- trace their roots tween British and American forces and are able to share their stories during the War of 1812. The sites and paper work. Senator LeBoeuf visited featured actors who re-enact- was able to share his family’s his- ed the battle style of the British and tory and fill in a few gaps for the Americans and told stories of the tour guide who plans to use Senator Métis and First Nations and their LeBoeuf’s stories in the future. ∞ contributions to the war. There was River Canard is a hamlet of roughly a stop at a burial ground and a his- 500 people in the northern part of Am- torically marked skirmish. herstburg, Ontario and the southern The excursion was set up as a part of LaSalle, Ontario. It is approxi- scouting trip of 30 attendants from mately 12 miles south of Windsor, ON, all generations. Each council mem- situated on the Canard River. MNO Windsor-Essex council members and their family members who participated in the excursion.

Métis pride in MNO High Land the City of Roses Waters Métis Submitted by: Donna Grayer, MNO Windsor-Essex Métis Council Women’s Representative Council AGM n Friday, June 21 in Wind- Submitted by: sor, the City of Roses, the Marsha Depotier, MNO Victim OMétis Nation of Ontario Services Coordinator (MNO) Windsor-Essex Métis Coun- cil raised the Métis National flag in front of Windsor’s City Hall for the n July 20, the Métis first time. The flag rising celebrated Nation of Ontario National Aboriginal Day and ac- (MNO) High Land knowledged the 20 year anniversary O Waters Métis Council held their of the MNO. Annual General Meeting (AGM) The late MNO Senator Earl Sco- at the Royal Canadian Legion in field and past council president Bob Northbrook. LeBoeuf had often discussed raising the flag at City Hall. The council settled on the year of 2013 because The AGM featured Métis Voya- of the MNO’s 20th anniversary as MNO Windsor-Essex Métis Council members Jon Rochon, Wilfred geur Games including hatchet well as to celebrate the recent suc- Rochon and Sue Morency at Windsor City Hall. throwing, beading, air riffles, chil- cess the Métis have accomplished enough for those in attendance thoughts. dren’s activities as well as informa- in the provincial and federal courts. to witness the Métis flag flying. In attendance were: Senator tion on MNO’s programs and ser- Founding MNO Windsor-Essex While watching, pride and big Bob Leboeuf, Councillor Wilfred vices. Métis Council members Wilfred smiles surfaced on the faces of Rochon and wife, Sue Morency, Among the 35 attendees were

Rochon and Bob LeBoeuf were all in attendance. Secretary; Jon Rochon, Vice-Presi- Tom Thompson, Provisional Coun- Senator Lois McCallum given the honour of raising the It was a beautiful day; each felt dent; Donna Grayer, Women’s Rep- cil of the MNO Region Six Council- beading at the MNO High Land flag. Attendants proudly watched that the late Senator Scofield may resentative; Tina De Castro from lor; Dedire Thompson, Acting MNO Waters AGM. as the flag went up the pole, then have contributed to the gentle the Great Essex District School High Land Waters President; Sena- swirled, as there was no wind. breezes that caused the Métis flag Board; and MNO staff October tor Reta Gordon; Senator Lois Mc- Peterborough and District Wapiti Fortunately, the wind did pick up to fly that day, as he was in their Fostey and Jannatu Mawal. ∞ Callum; and Andy Dufrane, MNO Métis Council President. ∞ Métis Voyageur Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 39 MNO acknowledges MNO Harvesters enhance aquatic Métis Veteran at habitats in the Toronto -York Region Georgian Bay Submitted by: Larry J. Ferris, The newly created habitats MNO Georgian Bay Métis will provide cover for small fish Council Chair allowing them to reach maturity. Council AGM The MNO Georgian Bay Métis Submitted by: MNO Veteran, or the past three years the Council Harvesters and partners Senator Dr. Alis Kennedy C.D., Métis Nation of Ontario plan to add an additional 20 habi- O.M.C. F(MNO) Georgian Bay Mé- tats this fall. There has also been tis Council Harvesters have been discussion on placing underwater étis Nation of Ontario hard at work with a project that cameras to monitor the habitats (MNO) Toronto-York will help the future aquatic eco- effectiveness. MRegion Métis Council systems of the Georgian Bay. The project is in partnership hosted their Annual General Most recently, on May 26, the with the Georgian Bay Bassmasters, Meeting (AGM) on June 9 at the MNO Georgian Bay Council Har- 1st Wye Marsh Scouts, the North local Royal Canadian Legion. vesters and partners created seven Simcoe Anglers and Hunters Con- President Gary Lipinski was in new fish habitats in the Georgian servation Club Inc., the University attendance and presented the Bay in hopes to preserve the fish of Toronto and the Severn Sound MNO Louis Riel Commemorative populations. Environmental Association.∞ Medal and the MNO Louis Riel Certificate to MNO eteranV Harvey Horlock, C.D.. (Left to right) MNO Veteran Harvey Horlock, C.D.; MNO President Gary Lipinski; and MNO Veteran, Senator Dr. Alis Kennedy, CD, OMC, at the Veteran Horlock has been heavily MNO Toronto-York Region Métis Council AGM. involved with the MNO for many years. He is a past president and a Métis Veterans at the Oshwegan member of the National Aboriginal past Senator of the MNO Toronto- National Memoriam Day and for Veteran Association (NAVA). York Region Métis Council and past the past two years he has been Currently, Veteran Horlock is president of the MNO Veterans’ invited by the Premier’s Office to the president of the Toronto Scot- Council. He also assisted in the cre- represent the MNO at the Remem- tish Regiment, a member of the ation of the MNO Oshawa Durham brance Day ceremony in Queen’s Royal Canadian Legion Todmorden Métis Council and the MNO Credit Park. Branch number 10 and a member River Métis Council. Veteran Horlock is also past of their colour party, being so; he For the past several years, Vet- representative for Ontario to the has participated in the Louis Riel MNO Georgian Bay Council Harvesters placing one of seven new eran Horlock has represented the National Veterans Council and past Day colour party at Queen’s Park. ∞ fish habitat in the Georgian Bay.

MNO bears torch at Sprint World Championships Submitted by: The MNO Community Relations team, Hank Rowlinson, Glen Lipinski and Beth Honsberger

n July 31, the Métis Na- tion of Ontario (MNO) Oand MNO Niagara Region Métis Council shared Métis culture Some of the participants who took part in MNO activities during with the world by participating in the Mississauga Waterfront Festival. the 2013 Canoe Federation Junior and Under-23 Sprint World Cham- pionships opening ceremonies at the Welland International Flatwater MNO canoes featured Centre. The world championship com- in Mississauga petition was held from August 1-4 and hosted 63 countries and more than 1,000 participants. Races in- Waterfront Festival cluded kayaking and canoeing for Submitted by: Richard Cuddy, The local Métis community youth under the age of 23. President of MNO Credit River was well represented by Mé- MNO President Lipinski was Métis Council tis Fiddler, Ms. Amie Nault and among invited dignitaries and pre- MNO’s Summer Youth Cultural sented Métis sashes to his fellow n June 15 - 16, 2013, Interpreters. guests at the event finale. Métis Nation of Ontario Among the paddlers were MNO MNO Niagara Region Métis O(MNO) canoes partici- Vice-Chair Sharon McBride, MNO Council members, including Coun- pated in the Mississauga Water- Credit River Métis Council Presi- cil President Derrick Pont, and MNO front Festival. The festival is rec- dent Richard Cuddy; MNO Credit summer cultural students were hon- (top) MNO President Lipinski with Barry Sharpe, Mayor of the City of ognized as Mississauga’s Signature River Vice-President Bill Morrison; oured as the torch bearer of the open- Welland at the 2013 Canoe Federation Junior and Under-23 Sprint World Family and Friends event that fea- Councillor Jean-Marc Maheu; and ing ceremony. The group paddle in Championships opening ceremonies in Welland. (bottom) MNO Niagara tures shows, games and fun for MNO Manager of Community Re- two MNO canoes across the water Métis Council President Derrick Pont brining the torch to the stage. the whole family. lations Hank Rowlison. to light the torches. A sea of flaming The MNO canoes made several Thanks to Councillor David fire pots lit provided a spectacular tional Métis outfits. The students played a Métis cultural camp that trips on both afternoons along the Neville, with the assistance of backdrop to welcome the world. also put on a performance that in- featured Métis voyageur canoes, shore of the Credit River while Councillors Jean-Marc Maheu and MNO summer cultural students cluded traditional Métis dancing. tents, historical Métis objects and proudly displaying the Métis Na- Bill Morrison, for facilitating MNO’s proudly displayed Métis culture and Along with participating in the an open fire to cook moose stew the tional flag. involvement in the festival. ∞ heritage to the world in their tradi- opening ceremony, the MNO dis- “old-fashioned” way. ∞ Métis Voyageur 40 Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 Métis exhibit banner depicts history of York boats From an article by: Duane Hicks, Fort Frances Times on-line: fftimes.com

Fort Frances artist and historian have teamed up to create a new banner for the Métis exhibit currently on display at the AFort Frances Museum. Over the past few months, before you read it. It’s about guys Wayne Barron and Merv Ahrens making an exciting trip in a big boat have worked together on the proj- that is propelled in various ways.” ect, which depicts York boats—once “The poster was painted on a used by the Hudson’s Bay Company vinyl canvas and the colours really to carry furs and trade goods along stand out on the non-absorbent can- inland waterways between Fort vas,” Barron noted. Frances and York Factory. “It’s larger than anything I’ve Barron contributed hand-painted worked on before,” said Barron. “It artwork for the project while Ahrens involved a bit of research. I went provided the historical details. [to] Merv, consulted with him, got Ahrens said the idea for the piece some archive photographs from the came up earlier this year at a plan- Hudson’s Bay Company, which I ning meeting for the exhibit, “Our based those sepia pictures on.” Local Métis Story,” which was fea- For about 40 years, from the tured at the museum until late June. 1820s to the 1860s, the York Boat Ahrens was a member of the team was used to make annual round- of people working on the “Our local trips between Fort Frances and York Métis Story” exhibit and has written Factory on Hudson Bay, explained books on the fur trade, including Ahrens. Fort Lac La Pluie of the North West These would be gruelling treks Company 177?-1821. His books are lasting 70-85 days and covering used in Fort Frances area schools. 3,600 km, he added, noting “that’s The poster depicts York boats, rather a spectacular distance.” as well as a map and text describ- York boats carried furs to York

ing some key points. Barron said he Factory and trade goods to Fort Merv Ahrens and Wayne Barron displaying their York boats banner at the Fort Frances Museum. tried to convey the feeling of the era, Frances, hauling up to two tonnes such as having the map look like it in each boat. and up inclines of 350 metres,” ex- crew of “pullers”— as they pulled on gallery upstairs once we take down was made of parchment. “Portaging, however, was a dif- plained Ahrens. the oars, as well as pulled the boats the Métis exhibit,” noted museum “We wanted to make it simple,” ficult task. Far too heavy to carry, Ahrens pointed out that rather over rocks and other terrain. curator Sherry George. “We’re very Barron remarked. “To make it visu- the York Boat was dragged on log than “paddlers” which would propel “This is a very fine piece that grateful to both gentlemen for this ally state what it’s talking about even rollers over rocks, through swamps, birch bark canoe, York boats had a will be displayed in our permanent collaboration.” ∞ MNO participates in Youth Forum

Submitted by: Kirk Fournier, ment Developer, Kirk Fournier MNO Employment Developer delivered “Métis 101” training to an enthusiastic audience and in- n July 25 and 26, 2013, formed participants about MNO the Métis Nation of programming at a MNO display OOntario (MNO) par- booth. He also had the opportuni- ticipated in the first ever Growing ty to present Kapuskasing Mayor Together: Aboriginal Youth Forum Al Spacek and local Member of

Members of the MNO Great Lakes Métis Council. in Kapuskasing. The event show- Parliament Carol Hughes with a cased opportunities for success MNO Métis Education Kit. available to Aboriginal youth and Growing Together was sup- themes included entrepreneur- ported by the City of Kapuskas- ship, Aboriginal governance, edu- ing, the Federal and Provincial Planning their Future cation, training, and employment. Governments, as well as corporate MNO Great Lakes Métis Council develop strategic plan MNO Region Three Employ- sponsors.∞ Submitted by: MNO Great Lakes Métis Council understanding and appreciation on Métis history, language, and crafts. he Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Great Lakes Métis “This gives me an opportunity to Council has undertaken an in- depth strategic plan over share skills and knowledge which I T the winter/spring 2012-2013. hope will not be lost to the younger generation,” said one of the elders. “By In- depth, I mean we have were very positive and helpful. The council has also planned a involved our citizens with a ques- The questionnaire results focused dinner meeting for the citizens to tionnaire asking them about their on youth programming and Métis hear a presentation by the facilitator expectations and also how they culture and language. The results Cliff Bilyea , ask questions and sign want to be involved in planning our also reflected various ways citizens up to assist in some of the program- future,” commented Peter Coture, wished to be involved with the ming planned in the coming years. President of the MNO Great Lakes council’s programs. The MNO Great Lakes Métis Métis Council. The strategic plan includes eight Council believes the strategic plan With the help of a Trillium goals, one of which is to develop will give council meetings better fo- Grant, the council hired a strategic a series of monthly Métis cultural cus and will help in allocating budget planning facilitator who guided the workshops. Each workshop will resources. Looking back, Peter Coture MNO Job Developer Kirk Fournier (centre) presents a MNO council through the process and involve an elder and in some cases said, “we had to make some tough Métis Education Kit to local Member of Parliament Karol Hughes developed a citizen questionnaire. support from a youth. The focus of decisions, but it will give us a clear (left) and Kapuskasing Mayor Al Spacek (right) during the Growing Thirty-seven per cent of responses this workshop is to create a better direction for the next few years”∞ Together: Aboriginal Youth Forum. Métis Voyageur Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 41 MNO Great Lakes Council 4th Annual Fish Fry Submitted by: Kaitrina Malcolm Dixon opened the event with salad and enjoyed by everyone. Harrisson, Summer Student with a prayer and introductions. A raffle was held for a kayak for the MNO Great Lakes Métis Among attendants was the Mayor equipped with a safety package and

Council of Meaford. a paddle. The lucky winner was Na- Katelyn Stenlund carefully balances an egg on a spoon as the Citizens mingled, children dine Desjardins. competition dashes to the finish line during the children’s races. he Métis Nation of Ontario played at the beach and the event MNO staff members in atten- (MNO) Great Lakes Métis was roaring with activity. Entertain- dance were: Jo-Anne Parent, Alden TCouncil held their 4th An- ment was provided by Johnny Bort- Barty, James Wager, Jody Blue, Deb- nual Fish Fry on July 20, at Hibou man from Listowell who not only by Ferris and Greg Garratt. MNO hosts Park. Many MNO citizens in the played music, but brought toys and The MNO Great Lakes Mé- area attended; the youngest being shakers for the children to play with. tis Council is thankful to Nuclear Family Fun Day two months old and the oldest was A trail walk was offered by Chris Waste Management Organization 95 years young. Hatchey with Grey-Sauble Conser- (NWMO) for supporting and spon- The weather was warm and vation Authority. soring the event and to the hard in Kenora sunny, perfect for a fish fry! MNO The fish, cooked by council working volunteers for helping put Information from: The Kenora Daily Miner & News, Great Lakes Métis Council Senator members and volunteers, was served the event together. ∞ www.kenoradailyminerandnews.com

he Métis Nation of Ontario grilling up burgers and hot dogs for (MNO) and the MNO Ke- a picnic lunch enjoyed by the all. Tnora Métis Council hosted Artwork and educational dis- a Family Fun Day on July 6. The plays on the walls portrayed the day’s events included arts and customs, dress and culture of the crafts, games, music and a com- Métis people. A historical time- plementary picnic lunch at Nor- line depicting significant events man Park. in Métis history was among the “This is the first year we’ve held informational exhibits. Family Day in Kenora,” explained Fun and games included an MNO Community Wellness Co- egg race with separate events for ordinator Terra Albany. “We put children and adults, ball toss, lawn it on for parents and children to darts and horseshoes. come out for a day of fun and to Musical entertainment was promote positive, healthy choices provided by Métis fiddlers Kate- for families.” lyne Stenlund and Lillian Penner. MNO Kenora Métis Council Métis jig dancer Devon Ross also The cooks at the MNO Great Lakes Métis Council Fish Fry. volunteers worked the barbecue performed. ∞ MNO introduces Peel District School Board to Métis culture Submitted by: Richard Cuddy, to join Blore on stage and play the President of the MNO Credit spoons. She pushed their limits as River Métis Council they tried their best to keep up with her steadily increasing pace. n May 30, 2013 the Métis Gonneau had the audience on Nation of Ontario (MNO) their feet; teaching students and Ohosted a Métis focused teachers jigging steps. Once ev- training session for approximately erybody felt comfortable enough, 120 students and 18 teachers from participants had the pleasure of jig- the Peel District School Board ging to several Métis fiddle tunes (PDSB). courtesy of Blore. As the intensity Members of the local MNO Credit ramped up, there were very few who River Métis Council were in atten- could keep up to Gonneau’s amaz- dance and Senator Ray Bergie pro- ing steps and pace. Participants of vided the event’s opening blessing, the workshop thoroughly enjoyed speaking with passion and wisdom. their dynamic performance. MNO’s former Manager of Edu- The days’ training finished with cation and Training Chris Paci fa- a staff discussion regarding looking cilitated a “Métis 101” and a look ahead to the 2013/2014 school year. inside the Métis Education Kits for The MNO is grateful for the the teachers. Paci did a thorough job PDSB’s support in achieving respect explaining the components of the and recognition for rights, culture, kit while discussing various ideas language and identity of the Métis. about how teachers might use the The MNO would like to thank PDSB Participants of the MNO kits to facilitate learning. Teachers Instructional Coordinator Ian Petti- “Métis 101” workshop. were allowed to explore the tools grew and PDSB First Nations, Métis inside the kits and ask questions. As and Inuit/Equity Resource Teacher MNO citizens Ginny Gonneau always, the kits were a huge success. Krista Tucker Petrick for organizing and Alicia Blore facilitating a MNO citizens Ginny Gonneau and co-leading the event. The col- Métis jigging and fiddle music and Alicia Blore facilitated a work- laboration between PDSB and the workshop. shop on Métis jigging and fiddle MNO will prove extremely benefi- music. Several volunteers from cial to the students and teachers in the audience had the opportunity the Peel Region. ∞ Métis Voyageur 42 Fall 2013, Issue no. 77

Finger weaving lesson by Brynn Goegebuer. Inspired by Nature luncheon with the MNO Windsor- Essex Council

Submitted by: Jon Rochon, Vice President of Windsor-Essex Métis Council

n July 14, the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Wind- Osor-Essex Métis Council The MNO Veterans’ welcomed local MNO citizens to enjoy a light luncheon, share their thoughts with the Council, and share their Métis heritage and cul- Council raises its profile ture. The Rochon family was represented at the event by four generations while other council members’ at Oshawa Métis event had three generations attending. Submitted by: ans. Registration forms, Veterans’ Joseph The intergenerational crowd made MNO Veterans’ Book project interview packages Paquette, for good conversations and great Council President and various veterans’ resources teaching moments for the youth. were on hand. The 1,500 plus who A finger weaving demonstration he Métis Nation of Ontario attended the event were very inter- and lesson was provided by excep- (MNO) Veterans’ Council is ested in the MNO Veterans’ Council tional weaver, Brynn Goegebuer. putting increased empha- program. T The younger generations enjoyed sis on communicating its message Pins donated by Veterans Affairs different types of activities with about the importance of veterans were handed out to all who visited. crayons and imaginations. The live within the Métis Nation. In keeping The veterans were asked to be part exhibits of snakes were a hit with with that emphasis, the MNO Veter- of the grand entry and post the flags all ages. ans’ Council was well represented at of the day. At the end of the day, Guests included council mem- the Oshawa Métis Heritage Celebra- they again responded by properly bers, MNO staff as well as a rep- tion held in June 22-23, 2013. For retiring the flags. Although it rained resentative from a local newspaper the first time, the MNO Veterans’ for half the day, it did not deter the who is Métis, and offered help in Council had an information booth veterans from their duty. the future with advertising for local and promoted the MNO Veterans’ The MNO Veterans’ Council events. MNO Windsor-Essex Coun- Book project. offers a big thank you to all the (Left to right) Chair Guy Mandeville, CD; President Joseph cil members in attendance were The information booth helped veterans who participated. Paquette; Treasurer Chris Plummer, CD; and Veterans’ Senator Dr. Vice-President Jon Rochon, Coun- raise awareness of the MNO veter- Lest We Forget ∞ Alis Kennedy, CD, OMC. cillor Wilfred Rochon, Senator Bob LeBoeuf, Women’s Representative Donna Grayer as well as MNO staff members October and Steve Fostey. The luncheon was held at the Oshawa Métis Heritage Celebration Ojibway Nature Centre which featured informative and interesting Submitted by: Glen Lipinski, displays on the ecology of the Ojib- MNO Community Relations Coordinator way Prairie Complex. A live exhibit area with an Eastern Foxsnake and he weekend of June 22-23 numerous entertainers stuck it out an Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake marked another successful through the rain and finished off is always a crowd favourite. A wall Métis Heritage Celebration the day with partial sun and high of windows provides a breathtaking T th in Oshawa. The 7 annual Métis temperatures. view of the forest. Brochures on the Heritage Celebration hosted by the Many musicians provided enter- birds, mammals, herps, butterflies, Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) tainment for the weekend including trees and wildflowers of the Ojib- Oshawa and Durham Region Mé- the Gaudry Boys, Alicia Blore, All way as well as trail guides, maps tis Council was enjoyed by roughly Our Relations Métis Drum Circle, and other informative handouts 1,500 people despite the heavy drumming with John Samosi and were available. downpours throughout Saturday. fiddle music by Rajon Anderson to The group enjoyed a nature hike, Held at Oshawa’s downtown Me- name a few. “hunted” for animals, reptiles, in- morial Park, the event included mu- Métis Voyageur games were a sects and birds with their cameras sic, dancing, Métis Voyageur games, huge hit. The hatchet throw was and enjoyed the company of a fam- vendors and craft. quite popular with many people Visitors taking part in the Métis ily of deer. The celebration began with a lined up on both days to test their Voyageur games. There were quite a few laughs grand entry. This was followed by skill. MNO Chair France Picotte and a good time was had by all, es- the singing of the Canadian National MNO staff were present to pro- speaking at the Oshawa Métis pecially concerning the pull apart Anthem by MNO Post-secondary mote MNO programs offered in Heritage Celebration. cake with the Métis infinity sym- Representative Jennifer Henry. MNO the areas of education and training, bol on it. Chair France Picotte also spoke at healing and wellness and lands, re- erything from gifts, clothing, jewelry It was a warm day and perfect the event. sources and consultations. and crafts to healing supplies. Food way to come together as a MNO Enthusiasm could not be damp- There were a number of service vendors kept the bellies full and the council and citizens in order to grow ened, 25 brave vendors along with providers and venders offering ev- music never stopped. ∞ and move ahead together. ∞ Métis Voyageur Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 43 MNO participates in 2015 Pan Am Games two-year countdown Submitted by: Glen Lipinski, Partnership Committee for the 2-15 MNO Community Relations Pan Am Games since its inception. Coordinator The celebration took place at the newly renovated Welland Pan n July 10, Métis Nation of American Flatwater Centre. The Ontario (MNO) staff and centre is the first venue created for OMNO Niagara Region Mé- the 2015 Pan Am Games. The event tis Council representatives were in- began with a ribbon cutting cer- vited by the Government of Canada, emony. The Pan Am flag was raised the Province of Ontario and the City and a special mural was officially of Welland to celebrate the two-year presented and displayed for the first countdown to the Toronto 2015 Pan time. Am Games. Attendants were also given the The Pan American Games are opportunity to visit the facilities and the world’s third largest interna- participate in flat-water activities tional multi-sport Games; they are using recreational canoes, kayaks only surpassed in size and scope by and dragon boats. A BBQ lunch was the Olympic Summer Games and served for all who attended. the Asian Games. Starting on July Among attendants were the Hon. 10, 2015, 7,500 athletes from 41 Bal Gosal, Federal Minister of State countries across the Americas and (Sport); Derrick Pont, MNO Niag- Caribbean will compete in 51 sports ara Region Métis Council President; in Toronto and surrounding areas. Glen Lipinski, MNO Community The Hon. Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport); MNO Niagara Region Métis Council President Derrick Pont; The MNO has been participating Relations Coordinator; and Paul Glen Lipinski, MNO Community Relations Coordinator; and Paul Grenier, Welland City Councillor, at the ribbon in the Aboriginal Leadership and Grenier, Welland City Councillor. ∞ cutting ceremony for the Pan Am Flatwater Centre.

Timmins AGM & Appreciation Night Métis Awareness Day Volunteer drivers acknowledged in Midland Submitted by: MNO Timmins tour Gold were also in attendance Submitted by: Tera Lynn office staff and set up information booths. Copegog, MNO Community The MNO Timmins Métis Wellness Coordinator he Métis Nation of Ontar- Council took this opportunity io (MNO) held its annual to hold its Annual General Meet- étis Nation of Ontario TMétis Awareness Day on ing (AGM) for MNO citizens in (MNO) volunteers dedi- August 1, at Big Water Camp- its area. Council President Alain Mcate countless hours to ground in Timmins. Lefebvre chaired the meeting and the betterment of the Métis Nation. Approximately 85 people took shared information pertinent to MNO volunteers spend their time part in the festivities which in- citizens. Andy Lefebvre, MNO with community members and cli- cluded Métis Voyageur Games, staff member and Regional Cap- ents in various roles such as driving arts and crafts, and a game of nu- tain of the Hunt updated citizens MNO clients to medical appoint- trition bingo. Lunch was cooked on MNO’s harvesting policies and ments. Through this role MNO driv- over an open fire. Among MNO its impact. er volunteers develop close relation- citizens present was MNO Chair The MNO looks forward to ships with community members. France Picotte. sharing Métis culture, traditions, In order to show MNO’s appre- MNO staff presenting volunteer driver Wayne Gilliard with certificate Representatives from the Cana- and organizational information at ciation for these volunteer drivers in of appreciation and gift. (Left to right) Shirley Dorion, Lorraine dian Diabetes Association and De- next year’s event. ∞ the Midland area the MNO office in Mountney, Wayne Gilliard and Natalie Lloyd. Midland hosted a Volunteer Driver Appreciation Dinner and Long Term All of the volunteers were also “Kindness is the language which the Goals and Planning Workshop on invited to speak about topics that deaf can hear and the blind can see.” May 14. would come up in a medical trans- - Mark Twain port from time to time. “Volunteers do not necessarily have Other presenters included Tim the time; they just have the heart. “ Dunlop from the Dunlop Team who - Elizabeth Andrew Thank you discussed Wills and Estates and Re- “You may not have saved a tirement, illness and injury financial to all MNO lot of money in your life, planning. Susan Leclair from Leclair but if you have saved a lot volunteers for your Cremation Centre spoke about end of heartaches for other folks, of life planning. Carol Gilbreath continuous effort & you are a pretty rich man.” from Hospice Huronia talked on dedication...” - Seth Parker Deputy Mayor of Welland Paul Grenier presenting cheque to MNO grief and bereavement support for Niagara Region Métis Council President Derrick Pont. individuals and caregivers. Each “The World is hugged by faithful MNO volunteers and staff en- presenter including MNO Com- arms of volunteers.” joyed a dinner of spaghetti with munity Support Services Supervisor - Terri Guillements meat sauce or chicken and noodle Thank you City of Welland Natalie Lloyd received homemade supper, fresh bread and salad. Des- “Volunteers are the only human Submitted by: ment even included bearing the candles made of MNO crayons and Glen Lipinski, sert included butter tarts baked by beings on the face of the earth who MNO Community Relations ceremonial torch. essential oils in berry and vanilla Shirley O’Hara and Jell-O cheese reflect this nation’s compassion, Coordinator The City of Welland was very scents. cake. unselfish caring, patience, and just appreciative of the council’s partici- Thank you to all MNO volun- Following the dinner, MNO vol- plain loving one another.“ n July 31, the Métis Na- pation in the event and as a result teers for your continuous effort and unteer drivers were presented with a - Erma Bombeck tion of Ontario (MNO) was willing to cover the expenses dedication to support MNO com- Métis Sash, MNO pin, MNO travel Niagara Region Métis associated with the council’s in- munities and citizens. “The smallest act of kindness is worth O mug and a certificate of appreciation. Council was heavily involved volvement. The quotes included on the vol- more than the greatest intention.” Each volunteer’s certificate included with the very successful opening Deputy Mayor of Welland and unteer appreciation certificates: - Oscar Wilde a special quote. The volunteer driv- ceremonies of the 2013 Canoe MNO citizen Paul Grenier presenters include: Wayne Gilliard, Allan “There are two ways of spreading “Unselfish and noble actions are Federation Junior and Under-23 ed the council with a very generous Vallee, James Keen, Oliver Brabant, light – to be the candle or the the most radiant pages Sprint World Championships at cheque for $1,400.00 on behalf of Julie Thauvette, Dave Cousens, mirror that reflects it.” in the biography of souls.” the Welland International Flatwa- the city. Gabe Brunelle and Carolyn Smith. - Edith Wharton - David Thomas ter Centre. The council’s involve- Thank you City of Welland! ∞ Métis Voyageur 44 Fall 2013, Issue no. 77 Welland MNO Métis festival Submitted by: Glen Lipinski, MNO Community Relations Coordinator

n Thursday August 15 the Métis Nation of Ontario O(MNO) Niagara Region Métis Council and MNO Healing and Wellness staff hosted the third annual Métis Fest at Club Richelieu in Welland. Approximately 127 people attended the late afternoon and eve- MNO Georgian Bay Council members with other volunteers who took part in the tree planting. ning festivities. Activities included the Métis Voyageur Games which were facilitated by MNO Commu- nity Relations Manager Hank Row- Tree planting in the Georgian Bay linson. The games as always were very well received. Equally popular was a fish fry that was enthusiasti- cally consumed by everyone. ∞ MNO citizens demonstrate Métis connection to the land Submitted by: Larry Ferris, and eventually shade the stream the Georgian Bay Bassmasters MNO Georgian Bay Métis to prevent evaporation raising the who donated $100.00 towards Council Chairperson water table. The trees will also re- the planting. We are tain moisture in the soil. Special thanks to Le Villageois MNO Niagara Region Métis n May 9, the Métis Nation “It was one of the best plant- for allowing the planting on the Council Senator (and cook) Garry of Ontario (MNO) Geor- providing ings I have been involved in,” said land and committing to the future Laframboise preparing French fries. Ogian Bay Métis Council il- future habitat Ferris. “I believe that there will be of the stream and the wildlife. lustrated the Métis connection and a good rate of survival for the trees Funding was provided by do- commitment to the land. MNO citi- we planted. Our volunteers did nations and a $2,000.00 grant zens and other volunteers planted for wildlife a fantastic job in taking the time from the Ministry of Natural Re- over 1,000 trees in hopes to reverse to plant the trees correctly giving sources which was received by the the problem dropping water levels like deer and them the best chance to survive MNO Georgian Bay Métis Council near Lafontaine, Ontario. and thrive.” Youth and Harvesters Committees. “It is a proved method of raising turkey.” The event would not have “It was especially nice to see water tables by planting trees,” said — MNO Georgian Bay Métis been possible without the hard youth out and involved with this MNO Georgian Bay Métis Council Council Chairperson Larry Ferris. work and dedication of all the project, they will be the protectors Chairperson Larry Ferris. “We are volunteers. Special thanks to The of these trees and this area in the providing future habitat for wildlife The council members and vol- Habitat Restoration Association of future,” said Ferris. “I hope that all like deer and turkey.” unteers improved the stream by Lafontaine member Andre Beau- of the people who came out had The creek also provides a habitat planting dogwood and cedars which soleil, Janice Ferris, The Home a good time and understand what for brook trout, Chinook salmon will grow roots and secure the creek & Cottage Centre, Severn Sound a positive difference they made to and rainbow trout. banks preventing further erosion Environmental Association and our environment.” ∞ National Aboriginal Day Some fun Celebration in Dryden in Fort Submitted by: Ashley Davis, MNO Northwest Métis Council President Summer Youth Community Worker Alvina Cimon; MNO Northwest Frances Métis Council Vice-President Don Submitted by: Doug Wilson, étis Nation of Ontario Robinosn; and MNO staff members MNO Chief Operating Officer (MNO) and the MNO Janet Hipfner, Allysha Antoszek, MNorthwest Métis Council Ashley Davis, Mandy Montgomery Provisional Council of the Métis celebrated National Aboriginal Day and Marley Hodges. ∞ Nation of Ontario (PCMNO) with festivities at Cooper Park in Executive Senator Reta Gordon Dryden, Ontario. MNO information booth at the on a recent trip to Fort Frances. Children enjoyed a day of fun ac- Aboriginal Day celebrations in The Senator got to experience tivities in the park. MNO staff mem- Dryden.(Left to right) Nancy Hatch, the words to that old tune “She bers were in attendance to promote Ashley Davis, Marley Hodges, was only a bird in a gilded MNO’s services and programs. Mandy Montgomery, Janet cage....” ∞ Among attendants were: MNO Hipfner, and Allysha Antoszek.