JULY 2020 | VOLUME 25 | NUMBER 7 eaglefeathernewseaglefeathernews

Newspapers will not transmit the Coronavirus CPMA #40027204 2020 Grad Photo Contest

AnnakahWinner Ratt is the winner of the EFN 2020 Grad photo contest. From Prince Albert, the graduate begins the SUNTEP program at the U of S in the fall. Photo submitted by Annakah Ratt

By Jeanelle Mandes Ratt, who will be entering the SUNTEP program at of Eagle Feather News the University of in the fall. “I liked the teachers I had in the past who inspired me and It’s our favourite time of the year again where showed me what teaching really holds. My mom we proudly feature some of the province’s Indige- was a teacher so she definitely was a big inspira- nous graduates in our annual grad photo contest. It’s tion.” always a challenge to pick our winners but through When Ratt first heard that she won first place in all the submissions, we choose our top three contes- the Eagle Feather News grad photo contest, it was tants. Here are their stories. something that she didn’t expect. Annakah Ratt from Prince Albert won first place “It was so amazing. I was so surprised when my in the grad photo contest. Ratt is a prominent la- mom texted me that I won [first place],” she said. crosse player who used the sport to help overcome “I was ecstatic and I actually feel quite honoured her shyness in high school. She graduated from the because it was a special picture with me [holding] École St. Mary High School and celebrated on June my lacrosse stick. It’s a big part of my life.” Ratt has 29 with family. Ratt will miss seeing her friends in been playing lacrosse for the past five years. Ratt school but mostly she will miss her teachers. has been playing lacrosse for the past five years. “I just loved all the teachers I had especially my She competed in the North American Indigenous English teacher who taught me a lot of things,” said Games (NAIG) in the past... continued page 10

A Story of Perseverance “ I managed to not only get through that but graduated with great distinction and 95 per cent attendance as well.” - Lynda Ahenakew - page 6

Culture, Pride, Hard Work Grassroots Connection “I’ve learned to work hard. You will always have “I came to FNUC on an athletic scholarship in July 2020 is our challenges in life. I had encouragement from my wrestling ... Five years later I’m done my biology parents, siblings and teachers. I’ve always want- degree and start medical school in two weeks.” GRADUATION ISSUE ed to graduate.” - Morningsong Benson - Waylon DeCoteau NEXT ISSUE IN SEPTEMBER - page 9 - page 14 WHAT’S NEW IN EDUCATION EAGLE FEATHER NEWS JULY 2020 2 Oskayak valedictorian encourages perseverance By NC Raine or obstacles, we are still able to overcome them. “I don’t like to focus on the bad stuff going on. for Eagle Feather News No matter what people say or try to get us down, I like to stay positive. Life is too short to focus on we are still able to achieve what we wanted to that stuff anyways.” Formally speaking, a valedictorian is often the achieve.” student with the highest ranking among their grad- This spirit of community and enthu- uating class. But in its more colloquial application, siasm was recognized by the school staff the valedictorian is commonly chosen by his or her too. Guidance councillor David O’Soup peers as the student who has accumulated high- said Gamble’s kindness made him a perfect est social credit – not popularity, necessarily – but choice to represent his class. goodwill amongst their peers. “He’s just a really good kid,” said Based on that understanding of valedictorian- O’Soup. ism, Dante Gamble, the 2020 valedictorian from “He represents the students well. He’s Oskayak High School in , may be the at the forefront of a lot of school activities. most valedictorian valedictorian of them all. Naturally, as an actor, he’s bold and cou- “I think my classmates chose me because I was rageous. He’d often be front and centre of friendly to everyone. I tried my best not to make any sort of school gathering, and always any enemies. I want to be a person on neutral presented himself well.” ground with every circle,” said Gamble. O’Soup said that students now are of- Gamble, 21, from Beardy’s and Okemasis ten growing up quiet and afraid to share Nation, said how overwhelmed he was, not only their voices. to graduate, but to represent his class as valedic- “Dante is not one of those kids. He’s a torian. The path to get there wasn’t without its ob- natural leader, and not afraid to make his stacles, he said. Gamble took a few extra years opinion known.” to graduate, struggling with one of his biological Now that Gamble has put a feather in parents who regularly discouraged him, as well as the cap of his high school career, he’s ten- some weight issues. tatively thinking about pursuing acting. He As such, Gamble’s valedictorian address, has done voice acting work, performed in a which was recorded in the Oskayak gymnasium short film, and acted in several stage plays and sent out remotely to his classmates, centred on and musicals. perseverance. “I got into acting because I really like “I spoke about not giving up and never forget- seeing people smile. I like being a part of Dante Gamble, valedictorian of the Oskayak High School ting where we all came from. No matter the odds that joy,” he said. 2020 graduating class. Photos courtesy of Dante Gamble.

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Voting safely is our priority. JULY 2020 EAGLE FEATHER NEWS 3 No challenge too great to stop Kkaikka from achieving education goal By Michelle Lerat ty of Saskatchewan. of Eagle Feather News But in second year, NORTEP was closed and Kkaik- ka had to relocate to continue her degree. She was ac- Cynthia Kkaikka is graduating from her teaching cepted to Cumberland College in Melfort but was only degree with distinction and wishes to add more Indige- able to take electives because they didn’t offer second nous content to school curriculums. year Education classes. When Northlands College in La Kkaikka, from Hatchet Lake Nation, moved Ronge resumed the Education degree progam affiliated to La Ronge when she was 10. She recently graduated with the U of S, she returned to La Ronge. The disrup- from Northlands College there. tion caused by the NORTEP closure resulted in Kkaikka Kkaikka dropped out of high school in grade 11 having to take extra classes every semester after that to when she was 16 because of being bullied for her Dene graduate on time. culture in the mainly Cree community. There was not a A month before her third year began, her aunt, who lot of knowledge about Dene culture and as a result of was like a sister, to her died from breast cancer. Kkaikka the bullying she began to internalize racism. and her family cared for her aunt in her final months. It She became pregnant at 17 and when her son was was difficult to return to school that year but she carried born, she realized the importance of education. The on. She became pregnant that year. Friends and family Cynthia Kkaikka, of Hatchet Lake Dene Nation, first year of being a mom was difficult. Kkaikka and her doubted she would continue with school, but one week graduates with a Bachelor of Education degree mother lived with various family members and while after her son Carson was born, she arranged for family with distinction from Northlands College in La she was grateful for the help, she dreamed of raising her to care for him while she returned to her pre-practicum. Ronge. Photo submitted by Cynthia Kkaikka. son on her own. Kkaikka is a fluent in Dene and is passionate about to Indigenize education and teach young students about She and her mother eventually got their own home teaching, preserving, and promoting the language and traditional Indigenous cultures.” and she went back to high school at age 19. culture. When she is home, she and her mom speak Kkaikka maintained an 84 percent average during She was nervous to go back to the same high school, mostly Dene so her sons can learn it. all four years of university and won many awards. She but her new, younger peers were more open-minded She created the Dene Language and Culture Club was the last recipient of the Duncan Bird Memorial and respectful of other cultures and it was a positive at Pre-Cam Community School in La Ronge, where she Scholarship from NORTEP before the program closed. experience. Going back opened up a lot of doors for taught grade six for her extended practicum. In the club She earned an Indspire Scholarship, the Prince Albert her and she now holds education close to her heart. she taught Dene culture and language. She was sur- Grand Council Women’s Commission Scholarship, the She earned many awards in high school including the prised at how quickly they could use the different Dene Saskatchewan Government and General Employees’ Graduate of the Year from Churchill Community High sounds and pronunciations. Union Aboriginal Scholarship, and the Northlands Col- School. “Last year 42 students signed up and it was so large lege Scholarship Award. “No matter the dark times I went through, educa- I had to split them into two classes.” she said. “With education and our cultural knowledge, we tion always provided hope for me,” she said. She wants to provide Dene culture to her students have so much power,” said Kkaikka. “I wish more peo- Kkaikka also faced challenges in university. because there was none when she was in high school. ple knew that ... there are so many opportunities out Things went smoothly in the first year, when she “I wish to become someone who I needed when I there and a need for Indigenous teachers, Indigenous was enrolled in the Northern Teacher Education Pro- was younger,” said Kkaikka. “My goal as an educator is nurses, and Indigenous lawyers.” gram, (NORTEP) which was affiliated with the Universi- EAGLE FEATHER NEWS JULY 2020 4 July Editorial Notes Hello summer! And welcome to our July and graduations. We’re in a time that we need to Graduation issue. Usually, this is the time when adapt and find creative ways to make change fun. kids are excited to be away from the books for the When things return to somewhat normal, I’m sure summer but with COVID-19, times are different. special occasions will be celebrated with a bigger I’ve seen many schools give virtual acknowledge- bang. ments in video posts to their graduates, which is I would like to send big shout outs to my two great to see. In Regina, I saw a parade of vehicles nieces Lexi and Helayna who graduated together decorated with balloons and colourful signs con- from Stobart Community High School in June. Al- gratulating their kindergarten graduates. I thought though they both didn’t get the whole graduation that was pretty neat and exciting for the kiddies. experience, they made the most of it. Our family These are great acts of acknowledgements to came together to ensure their achievements did show students that their accomplishments are not not go unnoticed. So proud of you both. forgotten. COVID-19 restrictions have made peo- Their school displayed all the graduate photos future with your hard-earned educations. Be that ple think outside the box when it comes to cele- outside their school walls. That was a wonderful change. And continue to make us, as Indigenous brating birthdays, announcements, anniversaries idea to express the pride they have in their grad- peoples across Turtle Island, proud. uates. Our July issue is al- Our July issue is always an exciting ways an exciting one. We get to see all the one. We get to see all the amazing amazing Indigenous Indigenous graduate submissions graduate submissions from all corners in from all corners in Saskatchewan. Saskatchewan. It’s al- Speaking of changes. Eagle Feather News will ways a hard time to be making a slight change in next month’s August decide who to award Justice issue. We won’t be publishing an issue next 1st, 2nd and 3rd plac- month. But we will still be fetching and bringing es for our annual grad you stories related to the Justice theme on our photo contest. But just website. So, be sure to check our website and so- know, you are all win- cial media throughout the summer. This time will ners. Sounds cliched, help us prepare to bring you an amazing Septem- eh. But it’s true. An ber Back To School issue. We know that we are amazing milestone is going to see many changes in the classrooms this achieved. Tomorrow fall, so stay tuned to see what sort of stories we is the start of a new will feature in our next September issue. chapter in your lives. With that, I’d like to wish our amazing read- Continue climbing ers a happy, memorable, and safe summer. Wash that ladder and chal- your hands and continue practice social distanc- My beautiful niece’s Lexi and Helayna both graduated together from the lenge yourselves to a ing. See ya all in September! Stobart Community High School. Photo by Jeanelle Mandes. bright and promising JULY 2020 EAGLE FEATHER NEWS 5 Pet Wars For the past two months, I have watched a war play of flowers (we have a cat calendar and that’s all those brought out the cat carrier and put the cat inside. Then out in my living room. The opposing sides are Smokey stupid cats do). I brought Smokey in. Oddly enough, he didn’t notice the Dog and Tattletail the Kitten. (I did not choose ei- The real deal was a little different. As I carried Tat- the cat for a long time. He just wandered through the ther of those names. If I’d had my way, I’d be sharing tletail and her cat carrier through the backyard the dog house sniffing the floor for cheese that had fallen off my home with Tyrion Lannister and Brienne of Tarth) I barked loudly and lunged at her cage. When I glanced the table. In order to get this experiment moving, I had knew that introducing a kitten to my home dominated at the cat to see how she was handling the deafening to show him the cat. Immediately he started barking by a big dopey lab husky cross would be risky. I had roar, she was on her hind legs, hissing. It was an im- frantically, both trying to get close to the cat and trying asked the vet about whether Smokey would get along pressive display of impotent, 2.5-pound, rage. to get away from her at the same time. We ended the with a cat and she had just raised an eyebrow. experiment after two minutes because it was all That eyebrow haunted me throughout the our ears could handle. cat adoption process. If you’ve ever adopted an My worry was pretty simple, that Smokey animal, you know that the screening process is would accidentally kill the cat, my son would slightly more complicated than applying for a be traumatized and Smokey would run away in mortgage. In the pre-interview, there were a lot shame to wander the countryside as a lonely, of questions about how I would keep Smokey haunted fugitive. separated from the kitten. Would I put up gates? But eventually I had to bring the two of them “A gate that a husky can’t jump over?” Would I together in the living room. I filmed part of the consider crating the dog? “His crate is the down- interaction and posted it on Instagram. One of stairs bathroom and I’m almost sure he can break my friends messaged me and said that Smokey down the door if he put his mind to it.” Would I should not be allowed to bark inside and to “get take him to obedience training? “Lady, we have on that.” I do not know how to get on that so I been to obedience training.” just upped my yelling. It did seem like we were Somehow, I managed to pass the test, mostly fated to be a house of yelling and barking until because I was anti-declawing cats. And of course, the tide turned. The kitten started lashing out at I am, who wouldn’t oppose such the cruel practice It was not a good start. For the next week, whenev- the dog with her tiny claws. She caught him on the of removing a cat’s claws? If your cat doesn’t have er Smokey saw the cat he would bark loudly. I mostly nose a couple times and he backed away, running to claws, then how the hell is supposed to become the kept him outside so it was like having a reverse guard- my side. “Can you believe what she did and all I did best fighter in the neighbourhood? I don’t want some dog, he would stand at the window, staring into the was try to sniff her butt for the last hour?” his sad look wimpy cat that has to be kept inside for its safety – I house and barking in warning, “Mom there is a god- seemed to say. want to own the cat that makes the other neighbour- damned cat in the house. It’s already in the house.” The house is quieter now. I still hear them scuf- hood cats nervous. I kept them separated - but I knew that the system fling at times as Smokey tries to sniff her butt and she I’ve always liked cats but we adopted a kitten at could not last. For instance, when it rained. Because tells him off with the business side of a tiny claw. Their the request of my son. I explained to him that kittens of his thick coat, Smokey’s weight doubles in size after battle has evolved from full out war to tiny guerilla like to scratch but he was convinced that his kitten about five minutes in the rain. skirmishes around the house and I can live with that. would be sweet and would chase yarn through a field I decided to help them get used to each other. I EAGLE FEATHER NEWS JULY 2020 6 Breast cancer, single parenting didn’t stop student

By Andrea Ledding Ahenakew says she has overcome addictions, for Eagle Feather News gone through traumas in childhood, and fled do- mestic violence just prior to entering the program. Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technology “I have worked for my First Nation as a health (SIIT) celebrated an online “on the land” gradua- and wellness worker and understood my passion tion on June 25th via YouTube. Featured were the was with my people and helping in any way I four recipients of the President Leadership Awards: could, and so when I read up on the program I fell Carilyn Daniels from Peepeekisis First Nation, Sa- in love with it: the courses, Indigenous models of vannah Olson from Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation, healing, therapeutic interventions, Indigenous spir- Lynda Ahenakew from First Nation, ituality throughout. That’s where I wanted to help and Rina Okimawinew from Attawapiskat First Na- with people struggling through intergenerational tion. trauma, something that plagues our communities. Lynda Ahenakew completed her two-year If I can help just one person in any way then I’ve Lynda Ahenakew, one of four recipients of the SIIT President’s Leadership Awards, with her Mental Health and Wellness Diploma while rais- done my part, I think.” ing four kids alone and undergoing treatments for mother Sandra. Both survived breast cancer at an Ahenakew moved from Ahtahkakoop to Regi- early age. Photo submitted by Lynda and Sandra breast cancer. na, where her mother and sisters already were, to Ahenakew. “It’s an amazing accomplishment,” said do the program, along with her 17-year-old son, and provider and role model, you just need to stay Ahenakew. “I had stage two breast cancer. I was di- 15-year-old daughter, 14-year-old son, and 6-year- positive and focus, so my SIIT family was really agnosed after the completion of year one and then old daughter. When one of her professors phoned that for me, they saw me sick and bald but their I went through chemo and radiation during year to let her know she had nominated her, she felt love and encouragement and support from them two, and a double mastectomy and both my ova- honoured just to be thought of, but when she re- and my mother and sisters really helped.” ries removed. I managed to not only get through ceived the award she was in tears. Her first surgery was in November, just as her that but graduated with great distinction and 95 Regina Treaty Services hired her for a summer second practicum was to start, but she was able per cent attendance as well.” position for her practicum, knowing her diagno- to focus on recovery from surgery instead because sis and the fact she was she had already accumulated enough hours to cov- undergoing chemo ev- er the six weeks by volunteering at the White Pony ery Tuesday would mean Lodge street patrol, helping facilitate Crystal Meth she sometimes had a We are here Anonymous groups and working as a sponsor for three-day work week be- two years. for you, cause she couldn’t get Not just the news, “I’m so blessed to be supported with, not only out of bed after chemo. this journey through cancer, but education. I real- 24 hours but the GOOD news too, Ahenakew began year ly believe in this diploma and tailoring it to meet two with four rounds of a day.... our community needs. There’s no shortage of op- and Saskatchewan’s chemo remaining and portunities and I can work in youth care, in ad- says the classroom setting dictions, corrections, family support, it allows you best music variety. of 24 students helped her to use the diploma for a variety of things working through it all. with our people that are out there that need it, men “We had talking cir- and women and children,” noted Ahenakew. “I’ve cles every Friday to finish heard it said a lot “ahkameyimok” — perseverance off our week. I miss that and never giving up and to not be afraid to ask family we had together. for help, that there’s so many people and organi- They helped me through zations out there that want to see you succeed in a lot of that. You have to whatever you’re doing so just ask, reach out.” www.mbcradio.com stay strong as a mother

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Application Form & Information: Visit www.oranocanada.com JULY 2020 EAGLE FEATHER NEWS 7 SUNTEP valedictorians ready to take on the future By NC Raine dream job, and Gaudet will be staying in Saskatoon to teach French Immer- for Eagle Feather News sion in grade 5-6 class at St Peter’s School. “I think grade 5-6 is an important age where you can learn a bunch of Brittany Macnab and Nathan Gaudet are hopeful for the future. The two anti-oppressive education right there in the classroom,” said Gaudet. recent Saskatchewan Urban Native Teacher Education Program graduates and “My goal is to have my students think critically about oppressive struc- co-valedictorians of their 2020 class see the current unsettling times as an tures, and then provide them with the tools… to disrupt intersectional oppres- opportunity to create change. They are quick to credit the SUNTEP and each sion.” other for the knowledge and inspiration that propels them forward. With mandatory anti-racist/anti-oppressive classes at SUNTEP, fighting for “Brittany is extremely knowledgeable and passionate. She has such a big good seems to be a common sentiment amongst current and former SUNTEP heart, and would give the shirt off her back to help others. Indigenous matters students. are very important to her, and in the classroom its very recognizable. She’s a “You begin to understand why people are saying the things they are(...) So force to be reckoned with,” said Gaudet. I’m pretty confident that everyone who graduated SUNTEP can handle any- “Nathan is the most genuinely woke dude I met at university. He’s always thing that’s going on in the world right now,” said Macnab. there to support people but still have a good time. He’s woke, he knows what’s “This is exactly what SUNTEP prepared us for. Exactly this. We were pre- happening and why it’s happening, and he’s there for the fight,” said Macnab. pared to talk about Black Lives Matter before the George Floyd incident,” Like so many of those this year who were chosen to represent their grad- added Gaudet. “Now I know I will have the support of the community to start uating classes, the two SUNTEP valedictorians were unable to actually make changing minds.” their address to their fellow classmates. Macnab, from Mead- ow Lake, said her mes- sage was going to be one of memory and optimism. “My message was a reminder that, hey we’d be a statistic. That we’re the people who will be celebrated by our Mé- tis people because we completed our four-year SUNTEP 2020 Valedictorians Brittany Macnab degree,” said Macnab. “I and Nathan Gaudet. Photo courtesy of Nathan wanted to remind people Gaudet. how far we’ve come. It’s important to celebrate.” Gaudet, from Bellevue, planned to share his gratitude for the community SUNTEP created. “I was going to talk about how grateful I was to have an opportunity to be part of a community that I didn’t know I could be part of. And how grateful I am to SUNTEP for preparing us so well in our teaching careers, and (to my classmates), to not be afraid to impart our Métis culture and heritage in the classroom.” Macnab and Gaudet have both landed in teaching positions since grad- uating SUNTEP. MacNab will be teaching Native studies, history, law, and psychology at Carpenter High School in Meadow Lake, which she says is her EAGLE FEATHER NEWS JULY 2020 8 Wesmor valedictorian dreams big, works hard By Brendan Mayer room. Kids would see her giving back for Eagle Feather News to the school. She’s very smart. I was fortunate enough to be one of those A Cree graduate from the Muskoday First Na- people who got closer to her. She’s a tion is planning to make animated films with Indig- really nice kid.” enous-focused plots. Beauchene has been running Shanice Beauchene recently graduated from a bag business since 2017 with her Wesmor Public High School in Prince Albert and friend, Kassandrea Bear, who is also says her career choice was inspired by a lack of from the . Indigenous representation in movies. Beauchene and Bear were inspired “I want to create films like Disney movies with to create RedWaters Bagging after Aboriginal stories,” Beauchene said. “I want to joining the Muskoday Business Club. start my own movie business. I will probably have The pair sells bags that include de- to move to a big city for my career.” signs featuring Indigenous women Beauchene will attend the University of Sas- and girls. katchewan in September and intends to major in “We sell bags to raise awareness computer science. Beauchene was Wesmor’s vale- about missing and murdered Indige- dictorian this year. Wesmor grads received their di- nous women and girls,” Beauchene plomas on June 24, and the school held a virtual said. “I’m a leader with my business.” grad ceremony on June 29 due to the COVID-19 “Quite a few of the kids knew pandemic. Shanice was doing RedWaters Bag- “It means a lot to be a valedictorian,” ging,” Lemire added. “She’s real- Beauchene said. “It was sometimes difficult, but ly embraced that and really grown. I’m a hard worker. It’s nice to be recognized. I’m She’s a quiet leader. It gave kids an- grateful for Wesmor and all the supportive people other way to see some possibilities there like the staff and teachers. My school was that are outside the school that you very welcoming.” can get involved with. It’s not always “There’s not one teacher that would say any- about what’s inside the building. thing bad about Shanice,” guidance counsellor She’s really pushed herself into dif- Carol Lemire said. “She was dedicated to her class- ferent areas to enhance her prospects Shanice Beauchene is the 2020 valedictorian at Wesmor Public es. I find that she has the ability to step out of her for the future and to grow as an indi- High School in Prince Albert. Photo by Raven Felix comfort zone. She was very respectful in the class- vidual. I’m really proud of her.” JULY 2020 EAGLE FEATHER NEWS 9 Cultural pride and hard work a winning combination for Benson By Brendan Mayer for Eagle Feather News

Morningsong Benson of spoke Cree at Sakewew High School in , loved her Native Studies class best and partic- ipated in every feast and pipe ceremony. That cultural pride and hard work in her classes attracted the attention of awards committees who chose her to receive the $1,000 William Swimmer Award and several other awards totaling $2,550. Among them was the Battle- fords Tribal Council Perseverance Award for keeping up her studies during the COVID-19 pandemic. “I never thought I would get these awards,” Benson said. “I was shocked and I’m happy. It means a lot to me. I’ve always doubted myself. I put my all into my homework and got it done. This year was really tough because of COVID-19. I’m used to the classroom. It really challenged me. I’ve learned to work hard. You will always have challenges in life. I had encouragement from my parents, siblings and teachers. I’ve always wanted to graduate. Getting my diploma was a good experience. It’s a good feeling.” Sakewew principal Shauna Bugler said Benson is very deserving of the award. “She’s a kind, caring and responsible student. All of her teachers have said that she’s a hard worker,” said Bugler. “She’s respectful and gets all her assign- ments in on time. It was hard keeping kids engaged during this time. She was

Morningsong Benson took home a total of $2,550 in awards at her graduation ceremony at Sakewew High School in North Battleford on June 19. Photo submitted. focused and did great.” Benson enjoyed going to the culture room at her school and smudged every morning. She has been dancing at powwows since 2016 and says more Indig- enous-focused courses should be taught at Saskatchewan schools. Benson will start the Continuing Care Assistant program at North West Col- lege in North Battleford in September. After finishing the one-year program, she hopes to work at the Red Pheasant Health Clinic. “I see myself working on the reserve,” she said. “I love my reserve.” Bugler said Benson was the first of the grade 12 students this year to get her application in for post secondary education. “She’s a really great role model. Other students respected her. She carries herself well. I think she will do great in college. She’s got the drive and knows what she wants to do.” EAGLE FEATHER NEWS JULY 2020 10 Grad photo contest winners celebrate their achievement in pictures By Jeanelle mandes bert Collegiate Institute (PACI) on June 26th where Congratulations to this year’s grad photo win- of Eagle Feather News her school had an outside parade for each gradu- ners and big thanks to all that submitted to our an- ate. It was an unusual way to celebrate a gradua- nual grad photo contest! ... continued from page 1 tion but with COVID-19 restrictions, Burns’ school followed protocols to practice safe social distanc- ... and had even played in provincial leagues ing. on all-male teams. “I didn’t mind it because I had a chance to say “Holding my lacrosse stick [in the photo] signi- goodbye to my teachers,” she said. “Even though I fies what had helped me through an awkward time didn’t get to see most of my classmates, I still liked in my life and trying to find where I belonged,” she it. It was more of an emotional time…but had a said. good conversation with all of them.” Ratt hopes her story will inspire other youth to Burns has been accepted into the University continue on their paths to finish high school and of Saskatchewan to study nursing in the fall. She reach for a higher education. hopes to work in different Indigenous communities “Keep striving and know that this is something after she’s done her studies. that you can accomplish and will help you further Another student from PACI is the third place your life,” she said. winner. Jared Ermine will receive $75 and also a Ratt receives $200 for winning first place in the pair of Beats headphones. He said he will miss his contest as well as a brand-new pair of Beats head- teachers but he will mostly miss PACI’s annual Hal- phones that were donated by the Saskatchewan loween events that feature costume contests. Advocate for Children & Youth. When asked what “I dressed up every single year since Grade 9,” she plans to do with her prize money, she said it he said. “I won in a lot of the costume contests.” will be going to good use. Ermine is featured wearing a Halo Master Chief “I plan on saving enough money to go towards head mask in his grad photo submission. He said school [in the fall],” she said. “With the Beats he was inspired to imitate the look from social me- headphones, I’m going to listen to my music more dia. efficiently.” “I (saw) a Facebook post where a guy was Our second-place winner in the grad photo dressed as a Halo character and everyone loved it. contest goes to Jasmine Burns from the Sturgeon So, I decided to copy that,” he said. Lake Cree Nation where she will receive $100 and Now that Ermine is done high school, he plans First-place winner Annakah Ratt wanted to com- also a pair of Beats headphones. to work for awhile until he figures out what he bine her love for lacrosse and achieving a monu- Burns graduated grade 12 from the Prince Al- wants to pursue in post-secondary. mental milestone in her life. Photos submitted by Annakah Ratt. JULY 2020 EAGLE FEATHER NEWS 11 Grad photo contest winners celebrate their achievement in pictures

Third-place winner Jared Ermine will not only miss his friends and teachers at PACI but the high school’s annual Halloween costume contests. Photo Second-place winner Jasmine submitted by Jared Ermine. Burns will be attending Univer- sity of Saskatchewan in the fall to become a nurse with hopes of working in different Indigenous communities. Photo submitted by Jasmine Burns.

Jacynthia Taypotat

Dana Derksen

Jasmine Ross

Katelynn Fontaine

Tiffany Kennedy Kelsy Harris EAGLE FEATHER NEWS JULY 2020 12 Peepeekisis recognizes high school grads along main road

By Jeanelle Mandes ology program online of Eagle Feather News through Briercrest Col- lege in Caronport, due to Every time people drive or walk through the COVID-19 restrictions. main road on the Peepeekisis First Nation, they “I am looking for- will see photos of this year’s graduates from the ward to getting a degree Peepeekisis Pesakastew School. and to finish college and Tessa Desnomie is amongst 11 graduates at her play sports at a higher school. Her graduating class won’t be joining in level,” she said. “I want on the social distancing graduation celebrations [to pursue] a career as a this month but they will celebrate their special sports therapist.” day in August. In the meantime, The Peepeekisis When asked who Pesakastew School found a unique way to honour she looks up to as a role and display their pride in this year’s graduates. model in her life, Desno- All the graduate’s photos are hung on the com- mie said her aunty Vera munity’s light posts along the main road. This ini- C. Tourangeau, who tiative made Desnomie feel special and recognized played softball growing amongst her classmates. up, was her biggest in- “It makes me feel good when I see our grad spiration and motivator. pictures. It feels good seeing myself up there,” said Tourangeau hopes Desnomie. “Our community is giving us our time that Desnomie continues to shine because we can’t have a grad right away to reach her full potential so they put our grad pictures up.” as an athlete and to ob- Desnomie said she is going to miss seeing her tain a higher education. friends every day and playing high school volley- “Tessa is an amaz- ball and basketball. She had a particular interest in ing talented young lady Photos of this year’s graduates from Peepeekisis Pesakastew School are learning about physical science in her final years who will go far in re- displayed on light posts along the reserve’s main road. Photo submitted by of high school. gards to accomplishing Tessa Desnomie. “We learned about the body and how the body her dreams!” stated Tou- talent and excellent team player! Tessa has the works,” she said. “That’s what I want to go into is rangeau. “She is an all-around all-star on and off talent to play for the elite. My father- her grandfa- Kinesiology and learning about that stuff.” the court and ball field. What makes her the cream ther would be so proud. I personally could not be Desnomie will be starting a one-year kinesi- of the crop is because she works hard, gifted with prouder of her.”

Contributing to a better world. Today and tomorrow. BHP wishes all Indigenous Graduates a bright and rewarding future.

www.bhp.com JULY 2020 EAGLE FEATHER NEWS 13

little BlaCk Bear First NatioN

Congratulations! BalaCarres high sChool 2020 GRADUATES Shontay Bellegarde Karley Keewatin

okaNese starBlaNket First NatioN First NatioN

BalCarres BalCarres high sChool high sChool Tiarra Creeley Tyson Creeley Shakara -Starblanket Kobe Starblanket

Cowessess First NatioN

Cowessess CommuNity eduCatioNal CeNtre Kayla Nokusis Wyatt Tuckanow Mia Buckles- Lorentz Shyla Delorme Tannin Missens

Pasqua First NatioN

ChieF Paskwa eduCatioNal CeNtre Taneaka Panipekeesick Asini Ponace Darius Pasqua-Whitestar Destiny Dubois Jobie Agecoutay

PeePeekisis First NatioN

PeePeekisis Pesakastew sChool Jodie Agecoutay Memory Agecoutay Jenae Agecoutay Alexis Bellegarde Savannah Bellegarde

Cheyanne Bird Tianna Dieter Thomas Deiter Desmond Desnomie Jr Jamai Desnomie Tessa Desnomie

Marisa Desnomie Alexa Laliberty Margaret McNabb Nelson McNabb Login Pinay Xavier Poitras

PiaPot First NatioN

ChieF PayePot sChool Lance Severight Trinity Crowe Rolanda Ironchild Shanikwa Noname Kieran Omeasoo EAGLE FEATHER NEWS JULY 2020 14 Valedictorian “felt connected” at FNUniv, heading south to medical school

By Andréa Ledding da besides going to Brandon and Winnipeg a few for Eagle Feather News times,” DeCoteau said, noting that he has relatives in . “I came up for a visit in my grade 12 The valedictorian for the 2020 year and saw FNUniv and thought wow, this is a University of Canada graduating class is Waylon place I want to learn.” DeCoteau, proudly Lakota/Dakota from Standing He has peers all over the USA going to Ivy Rock, and Aniishnaabe from Turtle Mountain. He League and big-name schools, but he had oppor- mostly grew up in Turtle Mountain Reservation, his tunities to hear Elders speak in labs and classes and father’s reservation, after spending his first eight was exposed to traditional knowledge, which was years in Standing Rock. unique to FNUniv. “I came to FNUC on an athletic scholarship in “It was something I enjoyed and it meant a lot wrestling,” explained DeCoteau, who didn’t know to me and helped me to feel connected rather than what to study but knew he wanted to be a physi- just showing up and learning,” he said, adding that cian. “Five years later I’m done my biology degree the employees and professors also made campus and start medical school in two weeks.” a welcoming place. “I didn’t know anyone, I was He will be studying medicine at the University away from my community, and the professors re- of North Dakota in Grand Forks. As a very young ally helped me feel comfortable and not miss my person he wanted to get into healthcare like his family so much.” mother, who is a nurse practitioner, to help his He was surprised and honoured when he found people. In the USA, Indigenous members fall un- out a week before convocation that he was going der treaty health care with the Department of De- to be the valedictorian. fense in Indian Health Services. “I was doing pretty good with school, the “They are federally managed and there are coursework, and I had a lot of fun,” he said, adding clinics all over but they don’t have community that it feels good to be recognized for all the hours members in them, there are usually a lot of people spent studying. “This is something my parents from very far away,” said DeCoteau. and family can be proud of. As I’m getting ready As a community member he has more con- for medical school, getting this awesome news is text. “For example, understanding alcoholism as a something I’ll be proud of for the rest of my life.” symptom of historical trauma and that’s why I de- DeCoteau says the thought of helping those Waylon DeCoteau, proudly Lakota/Dako- cided to chase this pursuit.” who need it is what got him through school, and ta and Aniishnaabe from Standing Rock In wrestling, he placed second nationally twice he wishes good luck to his classmates, those still and Turtle Mountain, is FNUC’s 2020 in three years. He enjoyed his time on the northern studying and still in high school, as he continues valedictorian. A champion wrestler, he side of the border. on his post-secondary path. has been accepted into medical school in “Before, I didn’t know anything about Cana- North Dakota. Photo provided. JULY 2020 EAGLE FEATHER NEWS 15 Future social worker wants to help others “do great things” By Michelle Lerat do great things.” of Eagle Feather News Obrigewitsch said she faced challenges during high school because of how she felt people viewed Regina high school graduate Sophia Obrige- her as an Indigenous person. At times she felt she witsch of is headed to First was treated differently by being dress coded more Nations University to study Indigenous social work. than others or for being in the hallway. “I’m excited because I wanted to go to univer- “I know who I am and I know I’m doing a lot sity my whole life,” she said. of great things,” said Obrigewitsch. “I know that Obrigewitsch maintained honour roll during all not a lot of people would see that when they first four years at Miller Comprehensive Catholic High look at me. Some people still have those negative School. She graduated with silver recognition on stereotypes in their minds.” her diploma for her extracurricular activities and When classes were canceled due to the pan- won the Indigenous student award for her grades demic, it was weird to lose time with friends and and post-secondary plans. She says her favorite making memories during their last year of high class was Native Studies. school, Obrigewitsch said. “I was in student representative’s council. (We) She was grateful for the graduation held at her helped with everything around the school and school. planned events,” said Obrigewitsch. “I was in Uni- “They had a red carpet set up, they had bal- ty in Diversity group, beading and sewing, drum- loons, they had a mini stage you can walk across. ming and singing, I did band, I did book club, I did All the teachers were cheering for you, even a lot.” teachers I never had were cheering me on. They Obrigewitsch is excited to be the first genera- were amazing ... They went all out for us.” tion of her family to attend university. She said she When school closed students could opt-in or always enjoyed school and schoolwork is some- opt-out of online classes. She chose to opt-out so thing that comes naturally to her. she could work and save for university and a com- Her 91 per cent average won her a $1,000 puter, which she said she needed for her first se- scholarship. mester of university. “My goals have always been to help those “I went and worked at the hospital … I don’t who don’t have a voice,” said Obrigewitsch. “By own a computer so I knew if I had to do online Sophia Obrigewitsch maintained honour going into Indigenous social work my hope is to classes I would have to work really hard to get a impact people’s lives and improve the lives of the computer,” she said. roll throughout high school. She gradu- next generation of our children and to give chil- Obrigewitsch is working as a unit support ated with silver recognition on her diplo- dren opportunities that they would not have been worker at the Regina General Hospital until classes ma and the Indigenous Student Award. given before … I could give them their chance to begin in the Fall. Photo by Sophia Obrigewitsch

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甀爀攀最椀渀愀⸀挀愀 ⌀唀漀昀刀攀最椀渀愀䜀爀愀搀猀㈀ ㈀ EAGLE FEATHER NEWS JULY 2020 16 Law school beckons for soccer-loving Saskatoon graduate

By Jeanelle Mandes program at the University of Saskatchewan, ma- of Eagle Feather News joring in history with a minor in political studies. Once she completes that degree, she plans on ap- After learning she will receive an award from plying to law school. the Saskatoon Police Service (SPS), Kayla Gardiner Gardiner said what she’s going to miss the most is more pumped than ever to pursue her educa- about high school are her friends. tional path towards a law degree. “I won’t see them as much because some of Gardiner, originally from the Cumberland them are going away,” she said. “Before every final House Cree Nation, received the SPS Community [exam], we would always go to McDonald’s. That Justice Award the at the Saskatoon Indian and Mé- was our little tradition that we did.” tis Friendship Centre (SIMFC) graduation ceremony Gardiner will also miss playing soccer, a sport scheduled for July 6. that she excelled in high school. She owes her pas- “The Saskatoon Police Service has chosen me sion for the sport and to keep pushing herself fur- for their award because they liked what I wrote in ther to her role model and soccer coach, Tara Tait my application,” said the Bethlehem Catholic High from the . School grad. “I talked about how I wanted to be- “I have always pushed [Kayla] to believe she come a lawyer because of what injustices that are can, no matter the challenge or the circumstanc- being done to Indigenous peoples [such as] the es,” said Tait. “I am honored that she sees me in Starlight Tours.” that light…she’s like one of my own kids. I wish her Gardiner remembers hearing her mother talk all the best in all her future endeavors. I strongly to her and her friends about the Starlight Tours, a believe that Kayla will be successful in all that she term used to describe police dropping off intox- takes on in her life, whether in sports or education. icated Indigenous men on the outskirts of town, Her commitment is commendable and inspiring to often in winter. Gardiner read Starlight Tour: The her peers.” Last, Lonely Night of Neil Stonechild by Rob Re- Each year the SPS takes part in an event that naud and Suzanne Reber. She felt motivated and recognizes young and talented individuals who compelled after learning Indigenous lawyer Don- have worked hard to achieve success. This year’s ald Worme represented Neil Stonechild’s family in recipients are Gardiner and Skylar Bobryk. the inquiry into his death. “We want to congratulate them and wish them “I want to become a lawyer to help Indigenous continued success,” said Const. Mikhaila Bird of SIMFC graduate Kayla Gardiner received the SPS Community Justice Award which was presented people…to fight for justice,” she said. SPS. to her at the graduation ceremony on July 6. Pho- Gardiner is has enrolled in a Bachelor of Arts to submitted by Kayla Gardiner.

Saskatchewan Indian Equity Foundation SUPPORT FOR INDIGENOUS BUSINESSES

In response to the COVID-19 crisis, SASKATCHEWAN INDIAN EQUITY FOUNDATION INC. through assistance provided by the Government of Canada, is taking action to ensure that Indigenous business owners impacted by Covid-19 have access to support. The emergency loan program is a component of the Indigenous Business Stabilization program.

The Emergency Loan Program (ELP) is designed as an emergency measure to support small business owners in meeting their immediate operating cash flow needs. These funds are not intended to replace or duplicate government or other bank/lender emergency financing/funds that are available to businesses in Canada.

Maximum assistance is $40,000 comprised of a 75% loan and 25% non-repayable contribution.

If you are an Indigenous-owned business and have been impacted by the COVID-19 crisis, contact SIEF for more information by phone 306-955-4550 or email [email protected].

Visit our website for the emergency loan program application at www.sief.sk.ca JULY 2020 EAGLE FEATHER NEWS 17 EAGLE FEATHER NEWS JULY 2020 18 Power of knowledge through education is moving our people forward The children are the future. Therefore, paving a better path forward is dependent on us and to contin- ue the hard work of those who have come before us. The odds are stacked against us in many ways, but we continue to break barriers despite the bling experience. Humility is one of ongoing systemic oppression. We the seven sacred teachings, along deserve the truth and education is with love, respect, courage, hon- a part of discovering that truth. The esty, wisdom and truth. Humility truth will set us free and arm us with allows us to acknowledge how far the tools to take back our space we have come, but in a way that we and assert the truth in those spaces. do not need the recognition that we There is power in discovering the may desire. We do things out of love truth of history and who we are and instead and to better our families, we have a duty to pass that down to our Nations and wider community. the future generations. It is about the work we do selfless- We are taking back that power ly, our hard work and dedication by becoming educated in a system speaks for itself and is something no that was not built for us. We are one can take away. To accept what taking back that power by reclaim- is and continue to keep moving for- ing our ceremonies and traditions. ward whether or not we receive the Colonialism and its institutions and acknowledgement we sometimes laws have taken its toll on disman- long for. We know in our hearts and tling Indigenous Nations and fami- the Creator knows how much we lies, but we are putting those pieces put into breaking cycles and barri- back together by finding who we ers for the betterment of ourselves truly are and what we are capable and those around us. of. We are dismantling stereotypes Therefore, surrounding our- and helping pave the way for more selves and being reflective of the to come as those who have come true few who have helped us get to before us have done. where we are and being thankful for As someone who was supposed who and what it is that keeps you to walk the stage this year to convo- going when you thought you would cate and obtain my Juris Doctorate not make it is perhaps the great- degree from the College of Law at est lesson. We can take something the University of Saskatchewan it more away from this experience has been heartbreaking to not be than the loss of not having what is considered a normal celebration. Stand in your power, stand with pride and keep moving forward onto the next chapter, knowing that you have everything you need with- in you. You have come this far not only to come this far but to contin- ue being a beacon of hope for the future generations. Our relatives are watching, our children are watch- ing, and the Creator is watching and at the end of the day the ones who matter most are with you whether they are in the spirit world or with us now. able to celebrate this milestone as My dad once told me, “you are we normally would. I wish for all new warriors armed with books.” I 2020 grads to feel pride in their share this because that is what you hard work and achievements. I had are. This one is for all of you grad- a hard last term, full of doubt and uating in the class of 2020. I might exhaustion but I was told, “you get not know you personally, but I am that degree because it will open up so very proud of you. This law de- many doors for you to walk through gree I just achieved is very much my and carry that knowledge you have daughters’ as it is mine, it has been into spaces that might not be open the three of us on this journey day for everyone.” I very much feel that and night and together we rise. Let now. us celebrate our lives and take back There is a lesson in everything. our power together. I find this lesson to be a very hum- JULY 2020 EAGLE FEATHER NEWS 19 Shannon Avison Reconciliation Ally By Betty Ann Adam lived with her family in Whitehorse for five years through her to virtual reality video production. of Eagle Feather News teens and had classmates from around the north. When ever possible, courses are taught by Indigenous Her family returned to Regina, where she took a degree professionals, who now are often INCA alumni. This year’s in- Shannon Avison has enthusiastically pointed hundreds of in Philosophy and became friends with students she tutored structors included Kerry Benjoe, Mervin Brass, Nelson Bird, Indigenous students toward journalism in the 31 years she has from Saskatchewan Indian Federated College, as FNUniv was Creeson Agecoutay, Connie Walker and Jeanelle Mandes. headed the Indigenous Communications Arts program (INCA) then called. In its early years, the summer institute was held in the at First Nations University (FNUniv). In 1985, an SIFC friend told her about INCA, which was journalism school’s facilities and engaged its professors as in- “INCA has become one of the principle institutions to then only in its third year. She completed the two-year cer- structors, “so the students got to know some of the professors turn out Indigenous journalists,” said veteran Cree journalist tificate program and then, as a freelancer, found there was a and it made the place seem more accessible,” Avison said. “I and filmmaker Doug Cuthand. “To get a real First Nations per- demand for journalists who could knowledgably cover Indig- think that’s why we had so much success over there.” spective, I’d venture to say probably the best place in Canada enous issues. She decided in 1989 to take a degree in Indian Another important addition to INCA was an internship right now is INCA. It’s showing itself, as some of our graduates studies to improve her reporting. That brought her to the atten- that gave students professional experience where they got to go across the country and get high profile jobs.” tion of department head Blair Stonechild and SIFC President know people in the media. “It’s Shannon’s commitment, there’s no doubt about it. Oliver Brass, who were looking for someone to teach INCA “When they got to first year journalism they were miles She’s dedicated her life’s work to this project, the INCA pro- courses. She was hired as a lecturer while working on her In- ahead… they were leaders in the school,” she said. gram,” Cuthand said. dian Studies program at SIFC, where many classmates were In 2005, Avison introduced a strategic communications mature students. course, which has evolved into two senior courses. Many “I wasn’t learning from white scholars, I was learning INCA alumni have gone into public relations work. from First Nations people, living and socializing and dating Because many of Avison’s first students were mature stu- and partying within the community,” Avison says. “I was really dents, their children and sometimes their grandchildren have getting (my knowledge) from a First Nations perspective and… shown up in her classroom, saying their parent or kokum told hearing about how policies were effecting my colleagues, my them to take her course. Others look askance when they see students, on the ground.” a white woman teaching at FNUniv and are surprised when The 1989 federal cap on post-secondary funding led to they discover she knows their relations and often many people student demonstrations and a sit-in at the Indian Affairs office. from their communities. Avison was a stalwart supporter, ferrying students downtown Mainstream news organizations are aware of Avison’s from campus in her orange Volkswagen van, helping make wide network. Besides taking her recommendations for prom- signs and advising students on media communications. ising interns, they often call her seeking suggestions for sourc- Avison took a two-year break when her son, Liam, was es on Indigenous issues. born and moved to Montreal to do a Masters degree in Media “I’m nosy. I’m interested. I’m a good resource,” she says, Studies, focusing on the role of Aboriginal newspapers in Can- with her signature good humour. “I’m not smart. I just know a ada. Through that, she became involved with the National Ab- lot of people who are smart,” she says. original Communications Society, where she met Indigenous Cuthand says Avison cares about her students. journalists from across the country. “She wants them to graduate with a good education, a Shannon Avison in Whitehorse, Yukon, in 2017 Back at INCA, in the early 1990s Avison helped make good experience and also the ability to work… Her enthu- with INCA alumnus Mervin Brass, Managing changes that established the two-year INCA certificate pro- siasm is infectious. She speaks from strength. She can prove Editor of CBC North. Photo submitted by gram as a prerequisite to the University of Regina School of she’s got the alumni out there that are holding down good Journalism. jobs at CBC and CTV and other stations all across the country. Shannon Avison. She then led creation of the INCA Summer Institute, a “It ain’t bragging if you done it. That’s the way it is with Avison loves her job and credits the university with sup- seven-week crash course in journalism that touches on print, her. She’s done it and she doesn’t have to brag about it,” he porting the INCA program and her work. photojournalism, radio, television and, more recently, blog- said. Avison was a northerner before she came to FNUniv. She ging and social media. This year students had an introduction

Board Member Recruitment

Saskatchewan Indian Equity Foundation Inc. Qualifications: (SIEF) is currently seeking qualified • Applicants must be residents of Saskatchewan. professionals who are interested in serving as • Applicants shall have a strong understanding of the a member of the Board of Directors. Saskatchewan First Nations business environment, economic landscape, challenges and issues along with First Nations culture and values. The Nominating and Governance Committee will • An individual is not eligible if they have been convicted endeavour to select individuals with the following areas of an indictable offence that would result in them being of expertise: Governance, Business and Financial unable to be bonded. management and specific knowledge in the Agriculture sector (Livestock). The selection committee will review Term: the candidate applications and contact those short-listed Three (3) year term in accordance with the Saskatchewan for an interview. The applicant should include a cover Indian Equity Foundation Inc. Bylaws. Directors are letter clearly stating the areas of expertise and reasons required to meet on a quarterly basis. for interest along with a curriculum vitae or resume.

Closing Date for Applications: Attributes: September 13, 2020 Individuals seeking a position to the SIEF Board of Directors should be required to meet at least one or more SIEF is committed to good governance in a non-political of the following competencies: environment. For a further description of SIEF with • Risk assessment and management, particularly for a background information and financial statements, please financing organization; visit www.sief.sk.ca. • Financial skills including the knowledge of best lending If you are interested in applying for this position, please practices and the ability to understand business plans send a letter describing how your experience is relevant and financial projections; to the areas of expertise described along with your resume to: • Aboriginal culture and communities; Saskatchewan Indian Equity Foundation Inc. • Strategic planning; 202A Joseph Okemasis Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 1B1 • Legal, tax and regulatory environment; Email: [email protected] • An existing entrepreneur with start-up experience. Telephone: 306-955-8570 Fax: 306-373-4969

SASKATChEwAN INDIAN EquITy FOuNDATION INC. EAGLE FEATHER NEWS JULY 2020 20