1257+:(677(55,725,(6 Group plans outreach on Sept. 30 Volume 75 Issue 22 MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2020 $.95 (plus GST) 'You can still feel the remnants' of residential school says chief News/North marks Orange Shirt Day 2020 with special coverage

How a painful legacy is taught in schools

Stephen Kakfwi recalls his pilgrimage to Fort Prov

Chief reflects on the lasting NNSL file photo effects of Bobby Drygeese, Randi Baillargeon, Alfred Baillargeon, Chief Edward Sangris, Napoleon MacKenzie and Jonas Baillargeon stand together as they chant and residential drum during the Land Feeding of the Fire ceremony at the Wiiliideh site on Aboriginal Day in 2019 as a part of the collaborative concert and mural hon- schools ouring the survivors of the 14 residential schools in the North.

Publication mail Contract #40012157 "There is a lack of awareness of Indigenous history because of how Canadian history has been translated and passed on to schools." 7 71605 00200 2 – MP Michael McLeod on residential schools in Canadian history books , page 7. 2 NEWS/NORTH NWT, Monday, September 28, 2020 orangenews shirt day 'You can still feel the remnants' of residential school: Chief Bonnetrouge Joachim Bonnetrouge says communities are still healing from residential school system

by Natalie Pressman feed my family, but I wasn't always Northern News Services that way," he says. "To be a good Deh Gah Got'ie Kue/Fort Providence Dene you have to work at it. I sure When he was four years old, Joa- worked at it." chim Bonnetrouge was taken from Bonnetrouge is 74 years old and his Dene village and brought to a has been chief on and off for the last residential school in Fort Providence 19 years. Before that he was a band where he stayed for 13 years. councillor and says he has worked for Now, he's gotten to "that good the band for well over 40 years. place of peacefulness," but it has His foray into politics came when taken him a long time to get there. he was 21. He said he liked to sleep- Like so many Indigenous children in in those days. One morning his removed from their families, Bonnet- mother came into his room while he rouge – now chief of Deh Gah Got'ie was sleeping and told him that his Kue First Nation in Fort Providence uncle, chief at the time, wanted to – experienced years of sexual abuse see him. in residential schools. It turned out that his uncle was "I was a typical Indian residential looking for someone to write a let- school survivor," he says "I had all ter to Indian Affairs in Yellowknife the characteristics, mannerisms, and to get some more nets and supplies attitudes." for the community. After that he The childhood trauma followed started following his uncle to meet- him and at age 43 Bonnetrouge ings, carrying his bags and the rest sought help for alcoholism. is history. He started going to Alcoholics Bonnetrouge said the reverbera- Anonymous meetings and "going tions of residential schools still ring NNSL file photo beyond (his) ego" to reach out for clear in Deh Gah Got'ie Kue. Deh Gah Got'ie First Nation Chief Joachim Bonnetrouge, 74, is a residential school survivor. help and build his support system. "In our community, everyday, He says the effects of the residential school system continue to be felt in their community If he hadn't, he suspects he may every night, every weekend you can everyday. have lost his wife and family. still feel the remnants and the people After 30 years of sobriety, he says learning to deal with their experi- run healing workshops for survivors. best you can be." missions' (TRC) 94 calls to action. things are getting easier. ences." They serviced nine Dehcho com- "Things actually do get better," he "Canadians need to become He is a father of four and a grand- In 2001 Bonnetrouge, with a munities until they ran out of funding says. "I was never a believer in that, engaged," he says. "The larger society father of 13. He says he is focused on group of other community members, in 2009. but I learned that it's true." out there, they need to tune in." being a good leader, a good teacher, ran a regional residential school heal- For those who continue to strug- As far as reconciliation on a broad "(The TRC) has done their part. and a good Dene man. ing program. The program made use gle with the anger and addiction, scale, Bonnetrouge says it starts with Now it's up to families and up to "I can set a net, shoot a moose, of federal compensation funds to Bonnetrouge says "just try to be the the Truth and Reconciliation Com- communities to study it." orange shirt day NEWS/NORTH nWT, Monday, September 28, 2020 3 Did we get it wrong? News/North is committed to getting facts and names right. With that goes a commitment to acknowledge mistakes and run corrections. If you spot an error in News/North, call (867) 873-4031 and ask to speak to an editor, or email editorial@ nnsl.com. We'll get a correction or clarification in as soon as we can. News Briefs GNWT seeks feedback on sale of vaping products NWT The Department of Health and Social Ser- vices is asking NWT residents for input on the development of new regulations under the Tobacco and Vapour Products Control Act, which came into effect at the end of March, respecting the sale of flavoured vapour prod- ucts. "The GNWT's legislation aims to protect residents' health by regulating where and how vaping products can be accessed, and pla-

cing additional restrictions on the display and photos courtesy of Tessa Macintosh advertising of vaping products in the NWT," It was a sunny but sombre day at when Stephen Kakfwi and his family visited the monument site in Fort Providence. according to a news release. "To build on these protections, the Department of Health Oct. 3, 2019. and Social Services is working to determine the best approach to keeping vaping products out of the hands of our children and youth. We want to ensure that all NWT residents, particularly children, youth and non-smokers, Former Premier Kakfwi are protected from the risks and harms associ- ated with vaping." The department is accepting feedback until Dec. 18. You can email [email protected] or fill out the survey at https://www.surveymon- reflects on residential schools key.com/r/DHSS-TVPCA. There is more information available on the GNWT website. Kakfwi made an important pilgrimage to a – Craig Gilbert monument in Fort Providence in 2019 NWT teachers to receive 1,000 by Simon Whitehouse face shields from Ontario Northern News Services NWT Deh Gah Got'ie Kue/Fort Providence Educators at 49 schools in the NWT will Every September, former NWT premier receive face shields donated by The Canadian Stephen Kakfwi feels a profound sense of Shield, a personal protective equipment (PPE) longing and loneliness. manufacturer based in Waterloo, Ont, the com- It's a memory triggered by the change pany said in a news release on Wednesday. of seasons, but it's rooted in his residential "Over 1,000 shields were donated, enough school experience, when he was taken away to equip the entire teacher population across from his family repeatedly for seven years. the 49 schools," said Canadian Shield spokes- That anguish returns again in late Decem- person Shannon Dodangoda, who added that ber, even many decades later. the items are in transit and their arrival date "Long after I was married and had kids isn't yet known. ... no matter where I was during Christmas, The donation comprises 750,000 shields to there was always a deep sense of emptiness education departments and ministries across and sadness "whether I was with my wife or the country – a gesture worth $7.5 million. friends and family it didn't matter and these The made-in-Canada items are manufac- feelings always crept in," says Kakfwi, who tured using 100 per cent recyclable material grew up in Fort Good Hope. and can be sanitized and reused at least 15 Orange Shirt Day and recognition of Sept. times, Canadian Shield said. 30 as a time to observe residential school The Department of Education, Culture and survivors is important, he says. Indigen- Employment (ECE) will distribute the shields ous people in the NWT have been heavily to teachers. impacted and the broader Canadian public – Blair McBride ought to understand how survivors experi- ence the negative memories, says Kakfwi. Coping with these intense emotions is an NWT receives nearly $15 million ongoing process. One important event that to support safe economic restart he was involved in was a pilgrimage to Fort NWT Providence last October. The NWT is receiving $14,555,000 to sup- Kakfwi, his family and various commun- port health-care systems and essential services ity leaders were involved in the dedication of as part of the federal government's Safe Restart a monument that lists the names of children Agreement, MP Michael McLeod announced who died at the hamlet's Sacred Heart Mis- Monday in a news release. sion School. The school is one of the oldest The fund is part of a $19 billion federal in the NWT, stretching back to the 19th Stephen Kakfwi and grandson Ryden place their hands under Helen commitment to "safely restart the economy" to century. Only in recent years, Kakfwi found Laporte's engraved name. deal with the impacts of the pandemic. out that three relatives from his mother's side The Safe Restart Agreement aims to sup- were buried in the area during the 1800s. and to be able to go and call their names." make a pilgrimage to Fort Providence," he port provinces and territories in their health Kakfwi, who served as premier from As many of the young students were from says. "You can go and see the monument to care capacity, contact tracing, securing per- 2000 to 2003, joined in a ceremony call- his home community of Fort Good Hope, one of the first residential schools built in sonal protective equipment, and protecting vul- ing out of the names of the children who the event also involved sacrificing foods the 1860s, where many young children died nerable populations in long-term care facilities, perished. from the Sahtu, including berries and moose and were buried in that field. Their names, among others. Asked about the importance of that trip, meat, during a fire-feeding ceremony. The though not all of them, were written on a McLeod said the funding will "help with Kakfwi says it was one of self-discovery. He smoke, it is said, delivers nourishment to the monument in Fort Providence. essential public health services, acquiring per- was able to reconnect with relatives as well deceased. "It is not much as a church to ask your sonal protective equipment and provide support as absorb the impact of residential schools Kakfwi encourages other groups to do congregation, 'You've been living here and for the increased demands on our health care more generally. similar exercises to recognize the impact of raising children here. Do you know what system, especially for vulnerable populations." "All of us called out their names even residential schools. happened in Fort Providence? There are chil- The agreement is focused on the next six to though nobody has probably said their names "I think I would like to see the Dene dren buried in unmarked graves and there is eight months. for 100 years because everybody has forgot- Nation, the Metis, the Native Women as a monument. There are children and family – Natalie Pressman ten," he says. well as the United church, Catholic Church, names who are also still alive today. There "We are fortunate to know who they were Anglican Church and their congregations are some that don't exist anymore.'" 4 NEWS/NORTH NWT, Monday, September 28, 2020 orange shirt day Plans underway for residential school monument in Yellowknife It may be until next spring at the earliest before work starts

by Natalie Pressman students from out of town. Northern News Services In a letter responding to the pro- Somba K'e/Yellowknife posal in April, Premier Caroline In 2015 the Truth and Recon- Cochrane expressed shared interest ciliation Commission (TRC) made "in moving forward with a monu- 94 calls to action to redress the leg- ment" and suggested a working acy of residential schools. Number group be formed between the gov- 82 on the list deals with publicly ernments. accessible and highly visible resi- City councillor and Yellowknife dential school monuments in each Heritage Committee Chair Jul- provincial and territorial capital. ian Morse says the committee are The city of Yellowknife and awaiting a meeting with the GNWT the Yellowknife Dene First Nation to discuss next steps. He says that (YKDFN) have set the wheels in YKDFN is leading the project and motion to respond to that call. As that the committee will play a role the monument remains in its prelim- in supporting the project if asked by inary stages, details of what, where YKDFN. and when remain unknown. A timeline on the monument Ernest Betsina, chief of Ndilo, remains to be seen, though Betsina says the monument would honour says they will "to keep an eye out" "friends and family that have passed for more information. With colder on, as well as those that survived and weather looming he suspects the are still dealing with the impacts of monument will be delayed until at residential schools." least the spring. "It's important that this legacy In a letter of support for YKDFN, get recognized and for us to have a Mayor Rebecca Alty said the project monument where people can gather reflects the city's commitment to and remember," he said. reconciliation. While it can't yet be confirmed, "We are in a unique position to Betsina says for the monument's facilitate awareness of the history location, they are considering the and legacy of residential schools," old site of Akaitcho Hall – a residen- she said, "among both non-indigen- tial school that closed its doors in ous residents as well as the vast NNSL file photo 1994, and later became a dormitory number of visitors from around the The City of Yellowknife and Yellowknife Dene First Nation are collaborating on a monument to for Sir John Franklin high school globe." redress the legacy of residential schools. orange shirt day NEWS/NORTH nWT, Monday, September 28, 2020 5 Education shows residential schools are still part of NWT's reality Most schools closed in the '50s and '60s, some were open in the North through the '90s

by Blair McBride words that we want to use at the Northern News Services appropriate levels for our kids. Books NWT are good for connecting to the kids' Close to half of the NWT's popu- lives. It's a good transition into what's lation is Indigenous, and the trauma a really difficult discussion," said of residential schools is still very Hunt. close to home for many people. Residential schools don't only How this delicate subject matter is come up in her lessons around the taught in schools is influenced by that time of Orange Shirt Day. deep-seated impact. Each day she recognizes Indigen- "Down south, residential schools ous culture by using the Wiiliideh are more of a history lesson, but up Yatii language for morning greetings here it's still very current because it and for singing the Canadian national happened more recently," said Scott anthem. Willoughby, Indigenous Language "We have learning opportunities and Culture Education Coordinator out on the land. We really embed the with Yellowknife Education District culture in our learning activities (and) No. 1 (Yk1). we try to show them how Indigenous "It's not seen as history up here. peoples weren't always able to express The last residential school in Yellow- their culture in the way they can now." knife closed in 1996, Akaitcho Hall, A hands-on tool that Hunt uses is it was beside Sir John Franklin. It's gathering with the students in a talk- sensitive because there are lots of sur- ing circle to have conversations about vivors here. Down south, they closed history. most of the schools in the 1950s and "When we open up this conver- 1960s." sation in a safe way through those Blair McBride/NNSL photo Several levels of the curriculum at circles, we see a lot of empathy. Paul Bennett, vice-principal at Sir John Franklin High School in Yellowknife, teaches the North- Yk1 schools integrate content on resi- I like the focus on making things ern Studies class that incorporates a unit specifically on residential schools. dential schools, including the Dene better and being better people and Kede cultural program that presents working together on reconciliation. "For example, in Grade 6, some of and children returning home to their The topics that Bennett covers the Dene worldview. That program As children, they're curious and they the suggested activities include map- communities unable to communicate in the class include the Indian Act has been in place since 1993. want to learn and make things better," ping residential school locations in the with their families because they for- and its relationship to the schools, In Dene Kede, Indigenous peoples' she said. "As teachers, we often ask North (and) reading short accounts of got how to speak Tlicho. attempts to erase Indigenous language experiences in residential schools are kids to put themselves in the shoes residential school experiences from "Many students realize how and culture, how historical trauma covered in Grades 4 to 6. In Grades 5 of others: 'How would you feel if you our region/territory," Hope said. immediate and direct the impact of manifests itself and former prime and 6, students learn about how chil- weren't allowed to see your brothers The stories were told by school residential schools is for the North," minister Stephen Harper's apology for dren were separated from their par- and sisters? How would you feel if survivors, some of whom were Tli- Hope said. "Tlicho students have residential schools in 2008. ents and taken to residential schools. someone cut your hair (at school) and cho people, such as one by the late always demonstrated that they care Bennett explained that he also Many teachers use resources you didn't want that?'" Chief Alexis Arrowmaker, one of the very deeply about the histories and devotes almost a full month in the and content from Orange Shirt Day, Even though some of her stu- signatories of Treaty 11, which was legacies of residential schools. Many class to the importance of identity. marked on Sept. 30, and all of them dents' own family members experi- signed in 1922 between the Crown choose residential schools as a topic "One of my goals is to build up write some content into their lesson enced residential schools, Hunt sees and Indigenous groups in the NWT. for deeper investigation in their herit- what it means to lose your identity. I plans at the start of the year, said no difference between how they and Arrowmaker's story, intended for age fair projects, where some have want not just native, I want our non- Willoughby. non-Indigenous children respond to younger readers, focuses on himself interviewed family and community natives to understand that. And then "We usually bring Elders into learning about the schools. as a boy. He had wanted to go off to members who attended residential to actually lose that "to be given a the classrooms to talk about their "We don't see the negativity the mission school like other children, schools." foreign name, in this case would have experiences at residential schools, but come out. It comes from a place of but he was living "under the roof of For high school students at Sir John been a Christian name, or number in we aren't doing that now because of empathy," said Hunt. Chief Mowhi who had other ideas." Franklin (SJF), residential schools are the case of the Inuit" and if you were Covid," he said. Schools in Tlicho communities "One time, without telling him, I included as a unit in Grade 10 North- called anything but by that name by Sonja Hunt has been teaching learn about residential schools using took my bedroll and went to the barge ern Studies, a required course. another student that you would have about residential schools in her Grade their own resources produced by the and sat there waiting for it to leave. "It's likely the hardest thing that been punished." 4 and 7 classes at Weledeh Catholic Tlicho Community Services Agency Other people saw me sitting there I've ever had to teach," said Paul Ben- His methodology in the class is School in Yellowknife for about 10 (TCSA). and it was not long before Mowhi nett, vice-principal at SJF. similar to other social studies courses years. Residential schools are included in heard about me. He came and told "I've taught chemistry and physics, in that he uses literature, visits by She often uses books as one of her both history and social studies classes me that he will teach me everything from Grade 1 to Grade 12. This is the Elders and films to teach about resi- teaching tools, such as Stolen Words as a feature of how life changed when I needed to know, and so I followed hardest thing for me to teach because dential schools. by Melanie Florence and When I Was Europeans arrived, along with the fur him home." it rips at you. What our governments "This one here, We Were Chil- Eight by Christy Jordan-Fenton and trade, Treaty 11 and self-governance, Other stories tell about the rotten did, and how people could allow this, dren," he said, holding a National Margaret Pokiak-Fenton. said Linsey Hope, director of educa- food provided at residential schools, and how it was hidden for so many "They help give us some of the tion with the TCSA. harsh punishments by missionaries, years," he said. Please see 'I want', page 6 6 NEWS/NORTH NWT, Monday, September 28, 2020 orange shirt day 'I want the students to understand that it's not over' with some knowledge of residential schools Education, from page 5 because it would have been covered in ear- Film Board of Canada DVD. "I tell the stu- lier grades. The difference with the Northern dents, I can teach history, we're talking about Studies class is that they learn how extensive this or that, but I'll never get the emotion the residential school system was. across. But this one is powerful. You hear the "(They realize) the evilness of it. They'll voices of the two survivors. And I find that often say this is the most impactful unit in the that's been the most effective thing, to get the whole course. They question why our govern- emotional connection of what it was like. ment did that, and it creates a bit of skepticism "(Some) of the numbers are saying 50 per about governments, and (about) maintaining cent of students didn't survive the schools. And treaties and maintaining promises. The gov- we can think it's over. But I want the students ernment promised education but, look what to understand that it's not over. When you talk they gave. about homelessness in Canada, it's easy to "I hope this is something (the students) see that it's impacting our native population always remember. They might miss certain tremendously. We see alcohol and drug abuse. details, but they'll know something happened, This stems from this dysfunction that we've and it was wrong. Always be aware when imposed on the people during the residential government is not being equal. The takeaway school period." would be from the Indian Act, how assimila- Most students come into Bennett's class tion was made law."

photo courtesy of Sonja Hunt Clayton Taylor, left, Wolf Breitbach, Sonja Hunt, Natan Asrat-Hadgu, Ethan Hawker, Matthew Macusi and Tytan Zoe take part in a talking circle about resi- dential schools in Hunt's Grade 4 class. orange shirt day NEWS/NORTH nWT, Monday, September 28, 2020 7 Native Women's Association to greet Yellowknifers on Orange Shirt Day 'I think it is important to have a day to recognize residential school survivors,' says MP

by Simon Whitehouse because we understand what has Northern News Services gone on in the residential schools and Somba K'e/Yellowknife impacts and effects it has brought," Members of the Native Women's said Bullis. "It is a multi-generational Association of the Northwest Ter- (reality) and you see it up here in ritories are planning to greet Yellow- the North, maybe in a bit more than knife residents on the street in other places." front of the organization's office at She noted that addictions and the Canada Post building to mark traumatic suffering experienced by Orange Shirt Day, Sept. 30. Indigenous people in the North are Trish Bullis, the association's vic- evident, including in Yellowknife. tim services coordinator, and Skye "At the end of the day, we want to Lacroix, a new Missing and Mur- let people know that there are people dered Indigenous Women and Girls who care and willing to help you," programs officer, will introduce she said. themselves to the public from 10:30 Orange Shirt Day is based on a.m. to 12:30 p.m. the story of former Mission, B.C. Their display will include a table residential school student Phyllis set up on Franklin Avenue. Bullis Webstad, a six-year-old who went to and Lacroix will give away orange school wearing a brand new bright balloons and miniature orange shirts. orange T-shirt from her grandmother. There will also be small baggies When Webstad got to school, educa- Simon Whitehouse/NNSL photo handed out containing cards with tors forced her to remove the cloth- contact information. Some will also ing in favour of mandatory uniforms. Trish Bullis, victim services co-ordinator, left and Skye Lacroix, a Missing and Murdered be distributed to various elementary Political leaders in the North Indigenous Women and Girls program officer, both with the Native Women's Association of the schools and MLAs. encouraged observing Orange Shirt Northwest Territories will be marking Orange Shirt Day in Yellowknife in observation of residen- "We are going to be available tial school survivors. Please see MP, page 8 Please see page 14

8 NEWS/NORTH NWT, Monday, September 28, 2020 orange shirt day MP and former premier want more education on schools on Aboriginal day as a holiday and more Native, from page 7 discussion on doing something similar that it Day as the effects of the Indian residential could all be rolled into one. But many people school system in Canada impacts many Can- feel that Indigenous Peoples Day is celebrat- adians today, including Northern Indigenous ing culture and language and Indigenous people. peoples' history. It is a lot different in that "I think it is important to have a day to tone, but residential schools are not a part of recognize residential school survivors," said it. It needed its own focus," McLeod said. "I Michael McLeod, member of Parliament for think it is appropriate, and a day we can all the Northwest Territories. "I am one, but I'm take a look and see something that took place not the only (federal politician) that has gone in history and remember." to residential schools. There are also a lot of Stephen Kakfwi, former premier of the colleagues and MPs and senators who are Northwest Territories, spent seven years in Indigenous who have experienced it. There residential school, including at Grollier Hall is a lack of awareness of Indigenous history when he was nine and Grandin College when because of how Canadian history has been he was 12. He said in an interview this week translated and passed on to schools, so it is that any efforts to get education out to the important to have events that recognize that." public about the impacts of residential school McLeod supports having two separate are welcome. days to address Indigenous reality: Indigen- "I think it is a good idea," Kakfwi said. ous Peoples Day recognizes the cultural "I don't want people to forget what happened importance that First Nations, Metis, and to thousands of us for 150 years. I think it is Inuit have provided to Canada. It is a statu- good for Canadians who want to know their tory holiday. history and for children to come to mark a Orange Shirt Day, however, recognizes the day every fall. We need to remember hun- legacy that residential schools have brought dreds and thousands that were taken away to upon Indigenous peoples. Now in its eighth residential schools by laws of this country, year, it is not a statutory holiday in Canada. away from communities and away from fam- "I know there has been a lot of discussion ilies for months and years at a time."

NNSL file photo "There is a lack of awareness of Indigenous history because of how Canadian history has been translated and passed on to schools, so it is important to have events that recognize that," says MP Michael McLeod orange shirt day NEWS/NORTH nWT, Monday, September 28, 2020 9 Former students should be remembered for their resiliency: Dene National Chief Norman Yakeleya calls for more supports for Indian day school applicants

by Simon Whitehouse and go to Inuvik for school." Northern News Services An eventual federal statu- NWT tory holiday marking the day Dene Nation National would at least bring some Chief Norman Yakeleya has attention to the suffering that not been shy to express the former students have incurred, negative legacy and impacts of he said. residential school and Indian "I think it would give light day school survivors through- to the significance of the out the Northwest Territories. Indian residential schools in He said this week that Canada and it would shed a surviving students should be light on the dark chapter that remembered for their resili- the Canadian government, the ency as they have overcome churches and any other agen- the impacts of dehumaniza- cies that it needs to be looked tion, genocide and assimila- at it for what it is," he said. tion efforts on children and "It may be insignificant Indigenous nations by the fed- to some former students and eral government. some communities however As a former attendee of if we are going to recognize Grollier Hall and now national this statutory holiday then chief of the Dene Nation, he there needs to be actions and is also serving the Assembly policies and maybe stronger of First Nations as a regional emphasis on the truth and rec- chief of residential schools. In onciliation, the Royal Com- that role he has been work- mission and the commitment ing with colleagues to mon- from Canada to dig its hands itor to the federal Indian day in the past." school claimant process and has pushed for a review of the Indian Day School process, now nine months into settlements a two-and-a-half year process. One of the big actions Last January, Yakeleya that Yakeleya is calling for announced the start of the pro- these days is more supports cess, estimating at the time for seniors or Elders in small that there could be between communities, including in 10,000 to 15,000 former day the NWT, who have been in school students in the NWT the process of filling out day alone. school settlement claims. Yakeleya said this week The Toronto-based law that he has been among those firm Gowling WLG has been that has leaned toward hav- assisting applicants with the ing a day of recognition for Indian Day School Settlement residential school survivors in Process where former students June - rather than September - can be eligible for compensa- because in a given school year, tion of between $10,000 and this is when children had more $200,000. NNSL file photo positive feelings as they were Applicants have until July National Chief of the Dene Nation Norman Yakeleya said this week that a day of observation for residen- able to return to their home 2022 to apply for compensa- tial school survivors is important because it reminds Canada of hurt caused to Indigenous people. communities. tion and claims began being "We have always talked processed on May 12. about it as former students of More than 78,000 claims the residential schools and that have been filed from across we talked about maybe a dif- the country to date, Yakeleya ferent month like in June," he said. Only 23,000 cheques said. "That month at the end of have been sent out by the gov- June was a celebration of going ernment. back home from residential. "It has been estimated that "In September it means you 30 per cent of some claims are not feeling good or think- have had a deficiency in some ing good because as young manner," Yakeleya said, add- students it was when you were ing that this can be for a num- being taken away from fam- ber of reasons, including that ilies and way of life and being English is often a second lan- separated and taken to a differ- guage to people applying. ent society or culture." Sometimes small pieces Yakeleya said it is a day of information have not been that should be remembered as provided in the settlement one that brought a lot of hurt claim process like signatures to students who attended resi- or proper signatures. dential and day schools and It can take four to six weeks even to this day brings back to process, but with deficien- haunting memories. cies, can take up to three "The memory still lives months. within the former students and In Canada, there were more families," he said. "So even than 700 schools, with the first though it is not happening one opening in 1863 in Ontario today, the memories are alive and the last one closing in and well. I can recall when 2000. There were about 28 to September came you would 30 schools in the NWT. be able to hear the plane com- Anyone who attended fed- ing outside our community of eral Indian day schools are Tulita. I recall my mother tell- eligible for compensation from ing me in September when she the federal government. Day would hear the plane coming school survivors weren't cov- into Tulita and tears were roll- ered by the Indian Residential ing down her eyes because the Schools Settlement Agreement children were going to leave of 2006. 10 NEWS/NORTH NWT, Monday, September 28, 2020 1257+:(677(55,725,(6 Editorial & Opinions Published Mondays Yellowknife office: Comments and views from News/north and letters to the editor Box 2820, Yellowknife, NT, X1A 2R1 Phone: (867) 873-4031 Fax: (867) 873-8507 Toll free: (855) 873-6675 Email: [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Home Economics teach- [email protected] er, Miss G. Mackey, [email protected] Website: www.nnsl.com instructing young Inuit South Slave office, Hay River: girls in dress-making at Paul Bickford, Bureau Chief Phone: (867) 874-2802 the local Federal School, Fax: (867) 874-2804 Inuvik, Northwest Terri- Email: [email protected] tories, Dec. 1959. If you Mackenzie Delta office, Inuvik: Phone: (867) 777-4545 have any details relating Fax: (867) 777-4412 to this image that you'd Email: [email protected] Website: www.nnsl.com/inuvikdrum like to share with Library Baffin office, Iqaluit: and Archives Canada, Phone: (867) 979-5990 Fax: (867) 979-6010 please contact bac.cen- Email: [email protected] tredeliaison-liaisoncen- Website: www.nnsl.com/nunavutnews [email protected]. Kivalliq office, rankin inlet: Darrell Greer – Bureau Chief MIKAN no. 3381503/PA-130781/Library and Archives Canada photo Phone: (867) 645-3223 Fax: (867) 645-3225 Email: [email protected] Website: www.nnsl.com/kivalliqnews

Founder (1934-2018): J.W. (Sig) Sigvaldason PUBLISHER, CEO: Bruce Valpy – [email protected] Chief Financial Officer: Judy Triffo COORDINATING EDITOR: Craig Gilbert – [email protected] Editorial board: The truth is out, Bruce Valpy • Brett McGarry • Craig Gilbert ACCOUNTING – [email protected] Florie Mariano • Cindy Minor • Salleah Wagas Assignment editor Brett McGarry Photo Editor: Thomas Jono - [email protected] Sports: James McCarthy – [email protected] time to reconcile Business: [email protected] Arts: [email protected] Five years ago, 94 calls to action were given to the federal Reporters: Simon Whitehouse • Natalie Pressman Blair McBride government but only nine have been fully realized to date

Advertising production Northern News Services Production co-ordinator: Jennifer Reyes us." Randy Hiebert • Joshua Uson The horrors of residential school The issue: This strong sentiment is the tip Customer service: Holly Yestrau have been well documented. Can- Reconciliation of the iceberg and further proof [email protected] that more attention should be ADVERTISING ada's Truth and Reconciliation [email protected] Commission worked from 2008- We say: given directly to Northern recon- Representatives: Not a straight path ciliation. Petra Memedi • Laura Whittle 2015 to craft a 500-plus-page James Boylan report and 94 calls to action to Call to action No. 21 calls upon Advertising manager: Zerline Rodriguez address these many miscarriages the federal government to provide Features coordinator: Emmanuel Ramos of basic human decency forced Indigenous leaders in an emotional sustainable funding for existing and Social media manager: Wesley Cook Digital advertising representative: Echo Xin upon parents and children alike, 11-minute speech in Inuvik. This new Indigenous healing centres to while collecting nearly 7,000 first- apology was well received but there address the physical, mental, emo- CIRCULATION: has yet to be an official apology tional and spiritual harms caused [email protected] hand accounts from survivors, Circulation Director: Amy Yang family members and others. from the Pope, and in 2019 Pope by residential schools, and to Jewala Jhankur However, a December 2019 Francis said he could not person- ensure that the funding of healing Subscriptions: One year mail $90 report by Eva Jewell and Ian Mosby ally respond. centres in Nunavut and the North- Online (entire content) $50/year for the Yellowhead Institute found Federal leaders have addressed west Territories is a priority. that only nine of the calls to action the nation as a whole for the egre- Some actions have been taken had been completed at that time. gious actions taken during the in recent years but it has mostly Combined with a pandemic and a years of residential school, includ- been Indigenous communities and NORTHERN NEWS SERVICES LIMITED 100% Northern owned and operated federal government now more con- ing Stephen Harper in 2008. leaders and communities that have Publishers of: Inuvik Drum • Kivalliq News There has yet to be any local taken steps toward healing. Yellowknifer • Hay River Hub cerned with whether to call a snap NWT News/North • Nunavut News/North admissions of guilt or visits to the Maggie Mercredi is an example Member of: election, it's doubtful much prog- Canadian Community Newspapers Association ress has been made since. NWT by federal leaders and that of a strong figure working towards Ontario Community Newspapers Association Manitoba Community Newspapers Association healing and educating others. Saskatchewan Weekly Newspapers Association While the analysis did not grant is overdue. The North's residential Alberta Weekly Newspapers Association Ontario, Manitoba and Alberta Press Councils a full distinction between partially schools were open the longest and Through her home based busi- Yellowknife Chamber of Commerce Contents copyright – printed in the North completed actions and those that lasted until the 90s, leaving fresh nesses Ravenessence Consulting in by Canarctic Graphics Limited have not yet been started, this is wounds with many people. For that Yellowknife, she has been using the We acknowledge the Nous reconnaissons particularly disturbing in that all reason alone there should be spe- Kairos Blanket Exercise to teach financial support of l'appui financier du the Government of gouvernement du the calls that have been met are cial recognition and attention given about the lasting effects of coloni- Canada. Canada. what Jewell described as "cosmetic to Northerners in the direct apology alism across North America. Member of the Ontario Press Council. The Ontario Press Council changes" in Canada's interactions they are owed. Healing and on-the-land camps was created to defend freedom of the press on behalf of the public and press alike, and to consider specific, unsatisfied complaints with Indigenous peoples across the Some survivors like Margaret are another key piece to the recon- from readers about the conduct of the press in gathering and pub- lishing news, opinion and advertising. country. Leishman of Kakisa were not ready ciliation puzzle. Complaints should go to: The Ontario Press Council, 2 Carlton St., Suite 1706 Toronto, Ont., There have been many apolo- to forgive what was done through Listening to our Elders and their M5B 1J3 Email: [email protected] Fax: 1-416-340-8724 gies given, on local and national residential schools. stories will help them to heal from www.ontpress.com scales, both for the colonial actions In a 2012 Truth and Reconcilia- the past as well as teach us how to taken by governments over Can- tion Commission meeting in Hay move forward respectfully together. Send us your comments Email us at: [email protected] with the subject ada's 150-year history and from River she said "for what residential Forgiveness is an important step line "My opinion"; or send mail to News/North at Box 2820, Yellowknife X1A 2R1; or drop your letter off at the Anglican and Roman Catholic school did to me, to all our people, to healing the wrongs of the past, our office at 5108-50 Street. All letters submitted must be signed with a return address and daytime churches. I cannot forgive," she said, add- but the path to reconciliation must telephone number. We will do our best to ensure that ing she will probably go to her be paved with concrete actions, letters submitted by 3 p.m. on Thursday are printed in In 2009, Bishop Murray Chat- Monday's News/North. lain of Roman Catholic Diocese of grave carrying her resentment. "No and that falls squarely on the fed- Mackenzie-Fort Smith addressed human deserved what they did to eral government. editorial – opinions NEWS/NORTH nWT, Monday, September 28, 2020 11 Putting on the pounds during the pandemic?

We asked you! with Paul Bickford

[email protected] NNSL file photo One bad habit that's easy to develop is snacking too much, and the problem is we (I) don't snack on healthy things, columnist Roy Erasmus writes, suggesting we reach instead for fruit, berries and vegetables. Do you enjoy the fall in Hay River? Northern News Services What about bread and pasta you say? Have you recently had to loosen your belt They turn into sugar and easily add to the a notch, then maybe another notch? Notice love handles. Again, eat bread or pasta in your shirts getting a bit tight? Is that six-pack moderation and try to eat them before 1 p.m., turning into a keg? Oh no, is that the new so you have time to burn it off. normal? Eschia, take it easy eh! And don't forget the "almighty bottle." These days we turn on the radio and Seems like a lot of people are drinking more there's someone saying stay home to stay than usual these days. There's a lot of cal- healthy. Turn on the TV, another leader is ories in beer and if you're mixing your drinks saying to stay home. The problem is we tend with pop, whooee. to develop bad habits when we stay home … Have you tried to exercise during or after or should I say I develop bad hab- a good drunk? Pretty hard to do, its? Hahaha. eh? So, drink in moderation. One bad habit that's so easy to Do you like a nice glass of develop is snacking too much, and orange or apple juice with your the problem is we (I) don't snack breakfast? Or a nice cold pop or on healthy things. iced tea to quench your thirst? In fact, we often turn to the You should know that they all most lip smacking snacks which have about nine or 10 teaspoons are loaded with empty carbs, of sugar. Sarah Lily Doris Caudron sugar, and salt. Ya, that juice that is supposed "I'm loving the fall in Hay River. I'm "Absolutely, when it's nice. It's just Instead, we need to grab things to be so healthy for you, is no hoping to go down to Wood Buffalo beautiful and the colours are just like fruit, berries and vegetables WHEN longer recommended because they National Park so I can see the col- vibrant." and spice it up, like an apple with contain so much sugar. So only ours there, but it's so gorgeous here almond butter. It's okay to have THE drink pure juice, not sugar added, unhealthy snacks once in a while, HEART at about five ounces a day and I don't feel like I have to." but do your best to limit your por- water it down. I know it's hard but tions. says No try not to drink pop, ever! And don't you just love to order Roy Erasmus Sr. is There is not a single thing out? It's tasty, and no cooking or a certified wellness that's good for you in pop. And it's cleaning the kitchen afterwards. counsellor and coach soooooooo bad for you, especially But we can order too much and who survived heart if you have diabetes or are border- too often. disease. line diabetic. Drink water or tea How yucky. Once again, it can instead. be food that tastes good but which Seems like everybody's binge- can be bad for you, and often we order too watching their favourite shows and some- much and end up overeating. times that's after being on their laptops or Try to eat small portions and order as computers all day. Definitely not cool. Get up much fresh fruits, vegetables, and protein and move around once in a while, man. as possible. In fact, try to cook and eat like Go for a walk while being sure to stay six our ancestors did: fresh meat, fish, and vege- feet away from people, do some exercises, tables, especially if you can get it from the jog, chase your honey around the house, lol. land. You can also stretch, jump around, twist and The trick is to eat small portions, espe- shout, run on the spot, or chop some wood. cially comfort foods. I know it feels and Working up a sweat will make you feel a tastes good going down, but they're usually lot better and keep you in better shape. Sydney Harrison Katrine Lavoie loaded with butter, cheese, and/or sugar. So, So, there's a few tips to help you from "I love when I jump in the leaves." "I do. I like the colours and I like the want to keep your weight down? Have small putting on the pounds in a pandemic. Hope Northern Lights." portions. Well yaaaaaa! It helps. 12 NEWS/NORTH NWT, Monday, September 28, 2020 news Rare earths mined in NWT to be processed in Saskatchewan Federal funding helps construction of two new plants in the prairie province by Simon Whitehouse vidual rare earths oxides for specific Northern News Services market uses. NWT Earlier in September, the company Momentum continues to build for released the first of its employment Canada's only rare earths minerals figures showing that 14 workers have extraction project – the Nechalacho been hired to date with the major- project southeast of Yellowknife – ity of them being either Northern or which announced this week that a Indigenous or Northern and Indigen- plant to process extracted resource ous. There are expected to be about from the NWT is being built in Sas- 30 employees between the work site katoon. and the mining company's office in Cheetah Resources, the Canadian Yellowknife by this time next year. subsidiary of Vital Metals, is oversee- ing the mining venture at Thor Lake. Four-step process Cheetah announced on Sept. 22 that With extraction to begin next it has signed a binding term sheet spring, this is to be followed by a "to negotiate definitive agreements" sensor-based sorting machine on site to build a $5.25-million rare earth in summer 2021. However, these are extraction plant in Saskatchewan. only the first two steps in a process Cheetah aims to have the plant func- to develop rare earths elements for Photo courtesy of Avalon Rare Metals Inc. tioning by the third quarter of 2021. specific uses, media spokesperson Nechalacho Rare Earth Elements at the project site Thor Lake, NWT. That plant is to be constructed David Connelly explained this week. near a rare earth processing facility "The supply chain for rare earth The Cheetah-operated plant would Connelly explained that there are market. Rare earth elements are used being built to produce separated rare (development) has many steps in it," carry out the third stage of develop- only six other rare earths elements in various types of nationally stra- earths oxides. On Aug. 27, the Gov- Connelly said. "The first two are ment, which is to process that con- refineries in the world outside of Rus- tegic goods, including electric cars ernment of Saskatchewan announced going to be in the NWT and that is the centrated ore into a mixed rare earth sia and China. Once built, Saskatch- and batteries, cellphones and military $31 million to go toward Canada's extraction of the ore from the ground product. The SRC is expected to ewan's will be the only one in North equipment. "first rare earth processing facility," and then concentration of the ore with oversee a separating plant to convert America. "Being the only rare earth project which will be operated by the Sas- the sensor-based sorting." mixed rare earth carbonate to com- Last January, the Government of in Canada with near-term produc- katchewan Research Council (SRC) The concentrated ore is then mercial grade separated rare earth Canada announced its involvement tion capability, co-located with Can- in Saskatoon. Construction is slated expected to be transported, potential- oxides for market. in a Canada–U.S. Joint Action Plan ada's only separation facility, pro- for this fall and it should be running ly by barge to Hay River or Yellow- Accessing land and completing the on Critical Minerals Collaboration vides Cheetah the opportunity to be by late 2022. knife, or by ice road. However, those permitting process was more straight- to increase its global market share a cornerstone of the North America That facility will serve as a refin- details are still being worked out. forward in Saskatchewan, and that's of important minerals and rare earth Critical Minerals Strategy," Cheetah ery that will take rare earth product From there, product is expected to be why Cheetah arranged to have the elements, as China currently domin- Resources' managing director Geoff and separate it into high purity indi- shipped by truck or rail to Saskatoon. facility in that province. ates well over 80 per cent of that Atkins stated. photo story NEWS/NORTH nWT, Monday, September 28, 2020 13 Tlicho group cleans up gravesite on Faber Lake History Feature by Dorothy Carseen

Northern News Services losing our language and culture slow- While many may not consider ly by technology." graveyard visits to be a joyous occa- She says the Elders emphasized sion, when a group from Gameti took the importance of knowledge shar- a trip to visit a gravesite in Faber ing and passing along their stories to Lake, participants were upbeat. the young people who should know Julian Black and Georgie Gon cut and The excursion, organized by where these sites are and how to care prepare firewood for the coming days at the Tlicho government, brought 29 for them. Those who are fluent also the gravesite. community members to clean up spoke the Tlicho language. an almost 200-year-old gravesite in "We try our best to get our people Faber Lake. out on the land as much as we can Dorothy Carseen participated in with our youth," Quitte says. the trip with her siblings and cousins. Following the July 28 to Aug. 2 They repainted the graves and trek, 10 participants continued fur- cleared the bushes, but "the biggest ther north to clean up other grave- thing," she says, "is for young people sites. Dillon Mantla inspecting the dryfish. to learn and be on the land." While they can't be sure, Carseen Every day on the trip, the women says she believes one of her relatives picked berries while the men set is buried at the Faber Lake site. an fish nets and went hunting for duck, in-law of her sister's. While distant, moose, and caribou. At night, they she says it's still meaningful to find played hand games and drum music that connection. and listened to Elders' stories. The Quitte says they plan to send inter- young people on the trip collected ested community members out on wood and water for the site and another trip in the winter. helped out wherever they were need- They don't yet know where, but ed. she says that it will be somewhere Gameti community directory "people can enjoy being out there, Pamela Quitte says organizing trips like the olden days." like these is a priority since "we're – text by Natalie Pressman

photos courtesy of Dorothy Carseen Dillon Mantla, left, and Dolphus Apples restore a grace Trace Arrowmaker prepares food for the Camilla Chocolate holds up the catch of the marker at the over 200-year-old gravesite. afternoon. day while Henry Gon inspects.

The group participate in traditional drumming while taking a small break from their work at the gravesite. From the left are Julian Black, Henry Gon, Germain Eyakfwo, Mickale Eyakfwo, Clayton Black, Boris Eyakfwo facing and Chief David Wedawin, rightmost facing camera. 14 NEWS/NORTH NWT, Monday, September 28, 2020 news CERB creates tax concerns for many Businesses have been trying to compete with government benefit, observers say

by Simon Whitehouse received all seven payments, which on the Northern economy. Renee Comeau, executive director Northern News Services would be mean $14,000," Wong said. "Definitely with CERB coming to of the Northwest Territories Chamber NWT "That would be taxable and something an end, it is going to hurt the economy of Commerce, said her organization Recipients of the Canada Emer- you might not expect." with everything still partially closed has not taken a position on whether gency Response Benefit (CERB) will Michael McLeod, MP for the and nothing fully open," Bob said. "It CERB has been largely positive or see the financial assistance program Northwest Territories, said his gov- will hurt the territories in a big way negative. She agrees that there should end on Sept. 26 and local observers ernment has not indicated that it will without having that same consumer be more clarity on a long-term plan say there are limited resources for be raising taxes next year, except for power to buy things and keep busi- for Covid-related income assistance employees as the Northern economy targeting high-income earners during nesses open. and that it must be made clear that chugs along only partially open. the Sept. 23 Throne Speech. For the "I think we will see a downturn collecting the funds will lead to higher Andy Wong, tax consultant and most part, he said CERB has served as of the economy and higher under- tax bills next year. accountant, said people who have an emergency measure to help people employment rates." Nevertheless, she said remains been receiving the financial assistance as businesses and schools were closing Bob said he knows that there are worried about how the financial are likely after the CERB deadline due to Covid-19. some EI extensions available, however assistance has hurt chamber member passes. He said there are two options "CERB is something that, as the it doesn't reflect a long-term plan, in businesses who now need workers available for people to collect income name states, has served as an emer- his view. because they are competing against for another six months – one being gency measure," he said. "I have not "Basically, they made EI a bit the generous incentives of collecting the enhanced Employment Insurance NNSL file photo heard a lot on this issue but the ones easier to access. But due to high the benefit. program that is likely to serve those Andy Wong, tax consultant who have contacted me are usually unemployment in NWT in the previ- "A lot of our membership have seen on CERB. and accountant says there asking about eligibility requirements ous year, for accessing income assist- a dwindled employee pool because It's only available to those who options for Northerners as and that was early at the start of the ance if you have not been working, people collecting CERB get more have worked at least 120 hours of the CERB program comes benefit." there is no real fall back," he said. than going back to work, especially if work in the past 12 months. McLeod said he has been in con- Bob said NTFL continues to work they are in lower positions and specifi- "You are eligible for minimum to an end on Sept. 26. tact with Indigenous leaders, includ- on getting CERB extended while also cally retail and hospitality and those of $400 per week for a minimum of ing in his home community of Fort enhancing EI and ensuring there are types of sectors," she said. 26 weeks, which is significant," said Looking ahead to next year's tax Providence, and there needs to be greater benefits for workers. "I know specifically in the hos- Wong. "The rules are slightly dif- season, Wong said he expects there more restrictions on who gets the "I think CERB, to date, has kept pitality sector they are begging for ferent in that you have to apply every will be hurdles to overcome for tax money as it has led to "anecdotal people from falling into a system employees," adding that the benefit two weeks and, as an employment professionals. reports" of people spending the funds where they have no food and have provides a 'living wage' which drives insurance (EI) program, you have to "The challenge will not so much on alcohol or drugs. to pay rent still, but once that is up the cost of products by a significant show eligibility that you are actively be the taxes as the T4 preparation "So that is one side of it," McLeod gone how many will have to choose amount. and willing to receive work." season," he said. "The reason why said. "But CERB has had many bene- between paying rent and utilities?" "Private independent business can't Wong said the other option is the that is going to be new for payroll fits and has helped saved millions he asked. compete with those kinds of salaries." Canada Recovery Benefit – a "mirror administrators is because they will from financial ruin. During the pan- With CERB transitioning into a The federal government announced image of enhanced EI, but for the self- be required to break down the pay- demic, it was the right tool at the new EI program, effective Sept. 27, in a news release on Thursday that a employed who are not eligible for the roll during the first three months of right time to help the vulnerable. The McLeod said it will help people whose bill has been introduced to provide employment insurance program. CERB, which is going to require a lot reality is we have no cases and I'm incomes are still affected by the pan- three new recovery benefits to support "If you are a massage therapist or of work." optimistic it stays that way." demic. Canadians who are unable to work for gym instructor, you will likely still CERB recipients should be ready David Bob, president of the North- He added that the government is reasons related to Covid-19. need support and your income would to pay taxes next year, Wong said. ern Territories Federation of Labour likely to make further announcements If the bill passes, it will provide likely be quite reduced, but you can't "People should be prepared for (NTFL), said he expects the program's regarding taxable income assistance income to Canadians who need it access EI," Wong said. a sticker shock, especially if they end is going to have negative impacts in the future. most, states the federal government. news NEWS/NORTH nWT, Monday, September 28, 2020 15 Northern problems recognized in throne speech, says Cochrane But no mention of Arctic and Northern Policy Framework by Blair McBride speech would be acted upon Northern News Services soon, Cochrane said it's naive Ottawa to think they would be imple- Wednesday's speech from mented in one term. the throne showed that the fed- "But I do think that we eral government recognizes have to start at it. It will be the unique issues facing the work over the long-term. But North, said Premier Caroline one thing I can say for the Cochrane, in a teleconference federal government is every with reporters. meeting that we've had ... with Governor General Julie all premiers across Canada, Payette, delivered her wide- the prime minister has always ranging throne speech on recognized that the Northern Wednesday afternoon, with territories have unique needs. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau And that between the gap is masked and seated to her right. great compared to other south- "I was quite excited actual- ern jurisdictions. ly," Cochrane said. "We know "I do have confidence that that our housing needs are as we go forward, that in any huge, that was in the Speech of these areas that the federal from the Throne. The need for government will not forget the infrastructure, we need jobs, opportunity gaps that we have we're still in an opportunity in the Northwest Territories, gap, we don't even have roads CPAC image or any of the Northern ter- to many of our communities Governor General Julie Payette delivered the Speech from the Throne on Sept. 23. ritories." and climate change was there One of the few issues that as well. There were some jurisdictions are on board in double the funding." looking at it. forms almost 40 per cent of Cochrane said she thought (items) that were specific to looking at equality and equity. The premier also noted that the territory's GDP and one was missing from the Throne the North that I thought were It's certainly not too late but it's eliminating homelessness calls MMIWG strategy that can be incorporated into Speech was mention of the really good. not too early either." for a multifaceted approach. "We're doing our own the NWT's climate change Northern Policy Framework "The Indigenous people of Payette said that Canada "You can't only look at action plan for the territory. strategy. on investment in the Arctic the North were recognized as would invest $1 billion to elim- homelessness as only about One we've done that then hope- "Mining isn't all about just and North. It was first intro- particularly at risk," Cochrane inate homelessness. The 19th housing. We need to look at fully we'll be working with taking from the Earth and not duced in 2016 and was to be said. "Having that identifica- Legislative Assembly has com- housing (with) support. We the federal government on a giving back," she said. "Cobalt developed in consultation with tion, and (talking) about the mitted to tackling homeless- need to look at homeless shel- national action plan. It's some- (and) rare earths are important Indigenous and territorial lead- need for infrastructure, trans- ness, as indicated in the man- ters. But we also have to look thing dear to our hearts in for building green technolo- ers. portation, energy efficiency, date letter of Paulie Chinna, at mental health and addic- the NWT. It's something this gies. You can't keep mining "We spent a lot of time in clean energy, broadband (inter- minister of Municipal and tions and trauma because in government is committed to." out of the picture when we the last assembly working on net). Those things will be top Community Affairs. my opinion a lot of times the In response to Payette's talk about climate change and the Northern Policy Frame- of mind in our next meeting "When it comes to housing, issues are combined. I'm excit- multiple references to climate green energy. Those alterna- work," Cochrane said. with the prime minister." we need money," said Coch- ed that they're willing to tackle change, Cochrane said she is tive energy sources need the "I would have liked to have Cochrane also appreciated rane. "We can't build houses this," she said. glad the federal government minerals. It's about looking at seen a little bit more on that in that Payette spoke about the without money. The cost of Payette pledged to acceler- recognizes that the North is what we can offer. (the speech), because this year need to combat discrimination housing compared to southern ate progress in addressing the feeling the effects of climate "I'm hoping that the federal we were supposed to start talk- in policing. jurisdictions is at least double. calls to action related to Mis- change the most. government will recognize ing about the framework for "The NWT has always been As we move forward I'll be sing and Murdered Indigenous She pointed out that Ottawa that and work with us towards the implementation. Although very conscious of racism," she bringing that forward to the Women and Girls (MMIWG). is helping the NWT reduce its green mining and also con- it's not in the Speech from the said. "Recognizing that over federal government as many "It's a huge issue through- expensive reliance on diesel tinue to work with us in getting Throne, it doesn't mean that 50 per cent of our population occasions as I need to. out Canada," said Cochrane. generated electricity. our communities off diesel." things that are important to the is Indigenous. I'm glad that "If our costs are double "I was really glad to see Cochrane then turned to Asked if she thinks the NWT won't be lobbied for as Canada is on board. And all we should perhaps be getting that the federal government is mining, a sector that she said policies outlined in the throne we move forward." GNWT committee mulls MLA recall mechanism Critic says there is no mechanism for public to recall ineffective politicians

by Blair McBride The recommendation was includ- a great job, because then it ends up NWT and is similar to the way that "frivolous action. Northern News Services ed in the report because a recall just being a political tool of the day. members of the executive council are "But at the same time, if the NWT system is a way to ensure a candidate (And) you wouldn't want to set it to chosen. majority of voters in a riding do not The NWT should consider intro- has the support of a riding throughout 90 per cent because it's just too high." support the actions of their MLA, ducing an MLA recall mechanism to the member's whole term in office, The cost of embarking on a recall MLAs have doubts why don't they get a voice? And why enhance accountability. Wasylciw said. process would be "borne by the pub- Kevin O'Reilly, MLA for Frame don't they have any option of doing Advocates made the case before "Much the same as MLAs have lic," Wasylciw said. It could be as Lake and who chaired the commit- anything about that? And right now, the Standing Committee on Rules to maintain confidence in the pre- simple as a physical or online peti- tee meeting, responded to Wasylciw's they have no recourse other than and Procedures Monday evening. mier and cabinet," he said. "Or they tion. presentation by saying that the current they're told to wait for the next elec- Several MLAs attended the meet- can sort of pull them from their If enough support for a recall was Legislative Assembly has a stricter tion. There really is no check and ing, as well as David Wasylciw, positions. And this would give the there, it would lead to a byelection code of conduct than in previous balance on that system, other than founder of OpenNWT organization public the same ability with their and the regular election costs would assemblies that can control behaviour waiting out the four years. that promotes on government trans- MLA. It would simply be taking the be incurred. like absenteeism that might make "So while you do have a much parency. model that MLAs already have, and "It's important to note that, while recall actions more attractive. better code of conduct, that should Wasylciw focused on recommen- extending that to the public." it has passed in B.C. and it's been He added his concern that recalls make it even more needless, for this dation 27 in the Chief Electoral Offi- Shane Thompson, minister of talked about, it doesn't get used much can empower "disgruntled voters" to to ever be used," he said. "It's still an cer's Report on the Administration of Environment and Natural Resources, at all," Wasylciw said. "And there's basically harass an MLA and impede important tool in the toolbox, and the 2019 Territorial General Election, asked Wasylciw what level of disap- barriers to it being used all the time, their ability to work. gives voters that extra check on the which states that "true accountabil- proval of an MLA would trigger a which is a good thing. It might never "I think there's a downside to this system, check and balance." ity may be accomplished through recall. (be used), but it does provide the pub- even in the consensus government if The Standing Committee on providing the ability for electors for "Organizationally, that number lic with that tool. There does need to it were to be adopted," he said. Rules and Procedures has met four an electoral district to recall their could be (about) 50 per cent of the be ways that it can happen when vot- Wasylciw acknowledged times since June to discuss the report MLA for reasons such as absentee- riding (expressing disapproval)," said ers are sufficiently upset with their O'Reilly's concern, and repeated a on last year's territorial election. ism, inactivity or misrepresentation." Wasylciw in response. "But the idea representation." point raised by Tu Nedhé-Wiilideh Written submissions from mem- British Columbia is one of the few is that it's a fairly high number. You Wasylciw pointed out that recall MLA Steve Norn, who said that bers of the public for the committee jurisdictions in Canada that has recall don't want it to be 10 or 20 per cent procedures actually align with the support for a recall should be high to consider will be accepted until measures for politicians. of voters saying that you're not doing consensus political system of the enough that not it's just targeting Sept. 25. 16 NEWS/NORTH NWT, Monday, September 28, 2020 Around the North If you have an item of interest from your community, call (867) 873-4031, or email: [email protected]

Doug Rentmeister resigns NWT Sport North is looking for a new executive director. That's because Doug Rentmeister resigned from the position with immediate effect on Sept. 22 citing "health and personal reasons" for his departure. Les Skinner, Sport North's president, circulated a letter to the staff and board of Sport North and the territorial sport organizations informing them of the decision. Bill Othmer, Sport North's sport manager, will serve as the acting executive director in the interim with Skinner saying that the search for Rentmeister's replacement will start shortly. –James McCarthy March to take back the night Tuktoyaktuk Women and allies marched in solidarity through Tuktoyaktuk on Sept. 20 from the Aimayunga Women and Emergency Foster Care Shelter to The Point for the hamlet's annual Take Back the Night March. It's part of a larger effort to promote empowerment among women, which includes a new 12-week program held at the youth centre that began Sept. 16 and runs until Dec. 9 from 7 to 9 p.m. Open to women 16 years of age or older, the program is intended to give a safe space for women to learn about self- empowerment and how to help each other. Because of Covid-19 restrictions, the program is limited to 22 spots. Anyone interested is asked to call Kannessa or Shaylene at 867-977-200 to reserve a spot. – Eric Bowling Paul Bickford/NNSL photo New MED Park upgrades continue Travis Rosborough is the new protective services specialist – more commonly referred to as a bylaw officer Lli Goline/Norman Wells – with the Town of Hay River. Jackfish Park in Norman Wells is still undergoing its facelift. The town announced on Sept. 22 that the second phase of upgrades will focus on brush cutting and expanding the landing. Craft night begins anyone 13 years of age and over and participants are encouraged to Phase one's upgrades, the upgrading of the path to the lake itself, Liidlii Kue/Fort Simpson bring unfinished arts and crafts to work on. is ongoing. The Open Sky Creative Society in Fort Simpson is giving Physical distancing regulations will be in effect each night and The park itself is not closed but the town is advising people to people a chance to craft the night away. hand sanitizer will be available. use the facilities, such as the picnic area, at their own risk. Craft Night got underway on Sept. 22 and will continue every –James McCarthy –James McCarthy Tuesday evening at the society beginning at 7 p.m. It's open to Please see Work, page 18 news NEWS/NORTH nWT, Monday, September 28, 2020 17 Biomass furnaces by 2022: McLeod Nihtat Energy Ltd. will install six of the green energy boilers by Eric Bowling generators are expected to be in Northern News Services place by 2021 and further efforts to Inuvik determine the capacity for renew- Dreams of clean-energy in the able energy in Aklavik, Tsiigehtchic North are much closer to realization and Fort McPherson, at a total cost today after the federal government of $2.25 million. announced a massive cash injec- Meanwhile, the town of Inuvik tion for biomass, solar and other is getting $1.7 million to install a green-energy projects Sept. 22 at biomass heating system to replace the Nihtat Gwich'in Building. the current diesel boilers and pro- Speaking on behalf of Nat- vide additional freeze protection to ural Resources minister Seamus the town's reservoir. Mayor Natasha O'Regan, Northwest Territories MP Kulikowski said the new system Michael McLeod committed $8 would be an important milestone in million in funding for green tech- the town's efforts to get away from nology to further Canada's commit- diesel power. ment to get Indigenous communities "This aligns with our commun- off diesel power by 2030. ity energy plan," she said. "(It) sig- "Economic prosperity and nifies another important step that environmental protection go hand- will strengthen the town's ability to in-hand," said McLeod. "Green create a holistic water distribution energy is central to all our efforts – system while promoting renewable it has to be. Energy use accounts for energy and reducing greenhouse 80 per cent of Canada's greenhouse gases." gas emissions. Tulita Land Corporation received "The impact of those emissions $2.6 million to install biomass boil- are being felt probably the most here ers to heat seven of its munici- in the North." pal buildings and to establish an Nihtat Energy Ltd., the Town economy around them using waste- of Inuvik, Deline Got'ine Govern- lumber to create wood chips to fuel Eric Bowling/NNSL photo ment and Tulita Land Corporation the boilers. Town of Inuvik Mayor Natasha Kulikowski, Nihtat Energy Ltd. Chief Robert Charlie-Tetlichi, all received funding to expand their Deline Got'ine Government also NWT MLA Michael McLeod, Deline Coun. Leonard Kenny and Inuvialuit Regional Corporation green energy capacity. On top of was granted $500,000 to begin a that, the Arctic Energy Alliance community energy plan of their director of innovation and science Jenn Parrott were all smiles after an announcement of nearly received $797,000 and Inuvialuit own, which will include a 30 kilo- $8 million from the federal government to go towards biomass heaters, solar power systems Regional Corporation received watt per hour solar power system and energy literacy Sept. 22. $184,000 to promote energy literacy for their Grey Goose Lodge hotel and capacity throughout the Delta. and give the community a means to munity," said Deline Coun. Leonard helpful." later use. With modern home heat- With Nihtat Energy already hav- counter their increasingly unreliable Kenny, who credited Tim Tutcho for Biomass is the burning of wood ing systems, the boilers can achieve ing two biomass generators already ice road. getting the ball rolling on Deline's and other biological waste products up to an 80 per cent efficiency boost installed, one at Mike Zubko Air- "A few years ago we had an project. "We have to start looking at and using the hot gases produced over traditional fossil fuel boilers. port's fire hall and the other at the 18-wheeler fuel truck that fell other alternatives to heat our com- by the combustion to heat water in All the announced green infra- maintenance garage, the project is through the ice on Great Bear Lake, munity. This is one of the projects a home. Excess heat is stored in a structure is expected to be in place already well underway. Four more which is very close to our com- that we've done that will be very thermal tank or buffer vessel for by 2022. Why the NWT needs the Covid Coordinating Secretariat The Covid-19 pandemic has been like is directly focused on Covid-19. however, I am confident we are making nothing many of us have ever seen in our Of the $86 million in funding allocated progress despite this unprecedented chal- lifetime. The world is a very different place, Guest to the Secretariat over three fiscal years, lenge. and as we continue to move forward during only $5.2 million is new investment. The Our focus needs to be on advancing the this unprecedented time, we are committed Comment rest of this funding covers the program- priorities and mandate of the 19th Legisla- to protecting residents. ming already in place. As the program and tive Assembly, and as we allocate resources The reality across the world is grim. Caroline Cochrane is Premier service delivery is amalgamated, one of the to the new Covid Coordinating Secretariat, Numbers are rising globally, and in Canada of the Northwest Territories. objectives of the Secretariat will be to look departments will be better able to focus on we are experiencing an increase that is cause for cost savings. We are also working closely the work we were elected to do before the for concern. As predicted by health officials administering pandemic-related programs with our Federal counterparts to secure more pandemic. around the world, a second wave is antici- and services that have been on-going funding on top of what we have already Although our success to date wouldn't pated. As we have prepared for this possibil- since the early days of the pandemic. This received through other agreements. This have been possible without the collective ity, we have asked ourselves: how do we best includes: Protect NWT, the 811 call line, includes the Safe Restart Program, which support of the public, Indigenous and Com- prepare given our unique situation? Isolation Centres, Border Patrol, and Com- recently provided the GNWT with $14.8 munity Governments, community leaders, In the early days of the pandemic, our pliance and Enforcement, as well as any million, reducing the overall costs to the the private and non-governmental sectors, it initial response was swift – in large part functions of the Emergency Management government to ensure the health and safety was largely made possible by the immense because GNWT staff moved from their Organization that are directly related to of residents. effort of our public service. The GNWT is regular jobs to new roles monitoring our bor- Covid-19. The Covid-19 pandemic has certainly had dedicated to remaining diligent and pro- ders, and answering phones at ProtectNWT. Like the programs and services, only 10 an impact on our ability to advance the man- active as we protect the health and well- In the past few months, we have learned a of the 150 positions required are new and, date set out by all Members of the House, being of NWT residents. lot about how to better manage the response prior to the establishment of the Secretariat, to the Covid-19 pandemic. Through that we had 163 positions from across govern- experience, one of the biggest lessons was ment working to deliver these services. The how challenging it is to effectively coordin- new resources are being added to support ate a pandemic response by managing the operations and logistics components of resources housed in multiple departments. the Secretariat. Combining these resources We heard from residents that they wanted into a single organization allows us to bet- improved communications, better enforce- ter organize ourselves, focus our resources, ment, improved testing capacity, and a streamline processes, and find efficiencies. quicker turnaround from Protect NWT. The It is important to note many of the Secretariat is our response to these needs. positions in the Secretariat will be filled The Covid Coordinating Secretariat through transfer assignments from people ensures we are best prepared to deal with a currently employed by the GNWT. By for- second wave of the virus. The Secretariat malizing the work in this way, it gives clar- will improve our ability to implement meas- ity to employees and departments about the ures designed to protect public health and work before them. Through this approach, communicate more clearly and effectively departments can focus on the mandate com- with residents and communities. mitments we have been tasked with complet- The vast majority of the work that the ing, and those working in the Secretariat can Secretariat will be doing is not new. The give that work the attention it needs. creation of a central Covid Secretariat will By drawing these resources together establish a core staff complement that is under one roof, we enhance coordination of directly focused on responding to Covid-19 our pandemic response, and create a clearer, effectively. more effective, and efficient accountability The Secretariat will be responsible for structure, with a core staff complement that 18 NEWS/NORTH NWT, Monday, September 28, 2020 around the NWT

ATN, from page 16 for users to follow within the facility, effective Sept. 21. Work beginning on Access will be limited to a maximum of Fort Fitzgerald road four occupants at a time, with appointments lasting one hour. The centre will be open from Thebacha/Fort Smith 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Friday. Any- The Regional Municipality of Wood Buf- one booking an appointment will be subject to falo issued a notice of construction on Sept. 11 the standard Covid-19 screening and will be regarding chipsealing of the road to Fort Fitz- asked if they left the NWT within the last 14 gerald and on the Pine Lake Road, just south of days, have had any signs of symptoms or have the Alberta/NWT border. been in contact with anyone isolating or previ- According to the municipality, Rowe's Con- struction Ltd. was to start mobilizing for the ously had the virus. work on Sept. 14 and it is anticipated it will be All users must wash their hands appropri- ately and sanitize the equipment after use. A completed by June of next year. photo courtesy of Tuktoyaktuk Community Corporation This year, the contractor will be doing log book will be available and all users will granular base repair and ditch regrading, as have to sign in along with the date and time of March against violence required. their appointment. When both inside and outside the build- Women and allies gather at the point on Sept. 20 as part of Tuktoyaktuk's Take Next year, there will be chipsealing and Back the Night march. culvert repairs, as required. ing, two metres of social distancing must be – Paul Bickford maintained at all times or a mask covering the mouth and nose will have to be worn. The cen- with voting to begin on the Ecology North Ulukhaktok implements new tre will only be open to registered members at Facebook page on Oct. 1. Covid-19 precautions On demand ferry service The winners will be announced on Oct. this time. Staff will clean the centre and equip- Ulukhaktok Tsiigehtchic 10. ment twice a day, once in the morning and once As of Sept. 17, new rules for Ulukhaktok's Closing out the ferry season, the GNWT – James McCarthy in the afternoon. hamlet office are in place to limit the potential announced that as of Sept. 15 some temporary For further information, or to book an changes are being made to how the M. V. Louis spread of Covid-19, as well as the common appointment, call 867-978-2351. Seniors get delivery cold and the flu, since all three have similar Cardinal moves vehicles across the Mackenzie – Eric Bowling Hay River River. symptoms. Seniors in Hay River will be able to get a Anyone who is going to the office to make The ferry will now run on an on-demand Celebrate the harvest little bit of help twice a week and it all kicks service to all landings, responding to shore- a payment on water and sewage services, off today, Sept. 28. lines on a first come, first serve basis. NWT invoicing, purchasing supplies, registering a The Soaring Eagle Friendship Centre is Major road construction to the Dempster Ecology North is about to get going with motor vehicle or insuring it, renting a facility starting a hot lunch delivery program with Highway on the north side of the crossing is an online competition with a harvest feel to it. or just to speak with administration is asked to deliveries taking place each Monday and Wed- cited as the reason for the change in services. It's the Fall Harvest Contest and there are call ahead and make an appointment by calling – Eric Bowling several categories that people can enter, such nesday between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. It's 867-396-8000. as Largest Vegetable Grown, Most Northern open to seniors who are housebound, have On top of that, anyone entering the building Submission, Prettiest Flower Bouquet and medical or mobility issues or who are low- is asked to wear a mask and use hand sanitizer Aklavik posts fitness Funniest-Looking Vegetable among the hon- income. promptly upon entry. Hamlet employees will centre precautions ours up for grabs. The program is scheduled to run through be required to wear masks as well. Aklavik Anyone in the NWT is eligible to enter to Dec. 31 of this year and you can contact the The new rules will remain in place so long With its fitness centre re-opening, the com- and there will be one winner per category. centre to get on the list. as the Public Health order remains in effect. munity of Aklavik has posted new precautions All entries must be submitted by Sept. 30 – James McCarthy –Eric Bowling news NEWS/NORTH nWT, Monday, September 28, 2020 19 Reaching out and speaking out against gender-based violence with new group Hay River meeting called for Sept. 29 to discuss an action plan by Paul Bickford thing, whether it's every couple of weeks in the short term, every Northern News Services month for the long term." Hay River Kristine Vannebo-Suwala, executive director of the Family A meeting has been called to start a discussion about how men Support Centre, which operates a women's shelter in Hay River, can take action to reduce sexualized and gender-based violence commended Clouthier for the initiative. in Hay River. Vannebo-Suwala said it "definitely" could make a difference. The Sept. 29 gathering is an initiative of Scott Clouthier. "I hope that it works the way that they plan to and I definitely The aim is to create the groundwork for an action plan to think it's a dialogue that we all need to have in the community," make the town safer for women and gender-diverse people. she said. "And when we're talking about family violence, we Clouthier said the meeting was inspired by a recent similar really need to look at prevention. That's a perfect example of a initiative in Yellowknife. prevention initiative." Nancy MacNeill, a Yellowknife woman and a friend of Due to Covid-19 restrictions, in-person attendance at the Clouthier, posted an open letter on Facebook saying how she upcoming meeting will be limited to 25 people. and all the women she knows are tired of having to work to keep Women and gender-diverse people are welcome to attend, but Paul Bickford/NNSL photo themselves safe. priority will be given to men due to the space limitations. Scott Clouthier has organized "So basically, it was a call to action," said Clouthier, adding it "I hope I don't have to turn anyone away," Clouthier said. a meeting to dis- showed that it's a men's problem and they really need to step up "Even if we do, there's still room for everyone to take part in the cuss ways men can reduce sexualized and gender- in a meaningful way and hold each other accountable to make meeting and in an online stream, and also in anything the group based violence. communities safer. does in the future." "Hearing words from someone that I care about talking about Clouthier will also share written messages from anyone this work up to now, that being women and gender-diverse folks feeling unsafe in certain situations, that's something that really unable to attend the meeting. who have been using secret channels and their own kind of sur- struck a chord with me," he said. "So that really got me thinking "It would be silly to exclude the people who have been doing vival instincts to keep themselves safe," he said. about what can I do within our community to help make our com- munity safer and reduce gender-based and sexualized violence." In Yellowknife, meetings have also begun by a group of men to discuss the issue, and a Facebook group has been established under the name Answer the Call. Clouthier's effort is his own personal initiative, and he is not representing any organization. "It's just me as an individual taking stock of what I can do to help organize fellow men in a way that we can come together and put together some sort of action plan to reduce the sexualized or gender-based violence in our town," he said. He hopes the meeting will just be the start. "I think there's enough men in this community who are fed up having to hear from our friends that they're being hurt," he said. "I think there's enough people who have a similar mindset to me that we can put together a core group to make this an ongoing 20 NEWS/NORTH NWT, Monday, September 28, 2020 Sports & Recreation Sports hotline • James McCarthy Phone: (867) 873-4031 • Email: [email protected] • Fax: (867) 873-8507 Second time unlucky for Team NT

NNSL file photo Team NWT rises as one in a cheer prior to the start of the opening ceremony at the 2017 North American Indigenous Games in Toronto. The 2020 edition was postponed to 2021 earlier this year at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic but a second postponement late last week has thrown another wrench into the plans. North American Indigenous Games in Halifax postponed yet again due to Covid-19

by James McCarthy plans were scuttled back in next summer. Those plans the 2021 effort is now off the the council, stated in a press ada Games Council was going Northern News Services March when the Covid-19 have been scuttled thanks to table after a teleconference release that there are no more to announce but we didn't NWT pandemic hit. Covid-19. two days prior where it was disappointed people than the make our decision based on The 2020 North American The newly-resched- Third time's a charm, as determined that hosting the council itself. that," he said. "We're talking Indigenous Games (NAIG) uled 2021 North American they say, right? event would be "not feasible." "This wonderful group about two different parts of were slated to be held this Indigenous Games were The NAIG Council In making the announce- of committed and dedicated the country and two different past July in Halifax. Those slated to be held in Halifax announced on Sept. 18 that ment, Gary Plett, chair of individuals from coast-to- situations." coast-to-coast have wrestled What happens now in with this decision, but the terms of the format and eli- safety for all our athletes, gibility is still up in the air participants, volunteers and but the NAIG Council stat- their families and commun- ed that further discussions ities will always be at the would include such items as forefront of our mind," he age criteria, team selection said. processes and future hosting The release also stated rotation. that there is no set date for Because NAIG has been the Games to happen but that pushed back again, some work will continue between athletes will potentially miss the NAIG Council and the out on competing altogether, host society in Halifax to something Wells knows is a address the impact of the hard pill to swallow for some. ongoing postponement. "Everyone's disappointed Aaron Wells, executive and they're frustrated with director of the Aboriginal what's going on," he said. Sports Circle of the NWT, "We're in the middle of a pan- was in on the teleconference demic and we've never dealt and said it wasn't a decision with anything like this before that was taken lightly. so all we can do is adapt and "This wasn't a one-call try to make the best decision deal," he said. "There were for everyone." consultations with the council But even though things and the host society and the have been pushed back a facts were laid out. Everyone second time, Wells is still reflected on it and we decided confident there will be NAIG to postpone it as a group." in the original host city in the The NAIG postponement near future. follows the Canada Games "I am confident Halifax Council postponing the 2021 will host the North American Canada Summer Games in Indigenous Games," he said. Ontario to 2022, a decision "All signs point to the host made earlier this month. society there being very flex- Wells said the Canada ible and able to adapt to any Games decision had no bear- challenge. There's a real good ing on what the NAIG Coun- relationship between them cil decided to do. and the NAIG Council so I "We knew what the Can- have no worries." sports & recreation NEWS/NORTH nWT, Monday, September 28, 2020 21 No, football returning to the Big Ten is not the darkest day in history

Northern News Services Indiana University basketball needless to say, Sandusky is games being played. Hey, gang! Check this practice? That's assault and in a better place now. The gist of what I'm get- out! Get our oven mitts on a hell of a lot darker than Penn State covered every- ting at is that there have been when you read this one, kids, a few football games being thing up and I mean every- a lot of awful things done at because this is one of the played. thing. The school knew and schools within the Big Ten most piping hot things any Then there was that time buried it. It was complicit Conference which pale in sports writer has ever said. the late Woody Hayes was in everything Sandusky did. comparison to the confer- Christine Brennan is a coaching Ohio State in the I don't know about you but ence returning to action in columnist for USA Today 1978 Gator Bowl and decid- that seems a hell of a lot these confusing/unpreced- and came out with a doozy ed to punch Charlie Bauman darker than a few football ented/strange/tough/troub- of an article earlier this of Clemson late in the game? games being played. ling/difficult/weird times. month. Brennan made the All because Bauman picked And now we come to Brennan's column is akin claim that the Big Ten Con- off a pass? That's assault as Larry Nassar, someone who to comparing something to ference suffered its darkest well and a hell of a lot darker holds a near and dear place the Holocaust, which we all day ever … by agreeing to than a few football games in the bottom of my toilet. know is something you just have college being played. Nassar was the team don't do because you can't football this Why, even doctor for USA Gymnastics compare anything to the Wikimedia Commons photo season. Yeah, Sports this year, and was also a professor at Holocaust because the Holo- This is Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor, Michigan, she actually Zach Smith, a Michigan State University's caust is incomparable. home of the University of Michigan Wolverines said that. former assist- College of Human Medi- There are bigger monsters football team. It will have games this season after Here's why: Talk ant coach at cine. Nassar is now spend- in the lake to take down. the Big Ten Conference announced football would The Big with James McCarthy Ohio State, ing whatever years of his Football games happening return after it was originally said that Covid-19 Ten origin- was sent to wretched existence he has isn't one of them. would force the cancellation of this season. ally made the jail after he left in prison after being con- decision to violated a victed of dozens of sex abuse shut down sports this sea- protection order taken out charges involving minors, son owing to Covid-19 but by his now-ex-wife. That's all of them young girls at the athletes and some schools horrible enough but what time. Again, I won't list them Sports Card began to make some noise. made it worse was Urban because they will turn your Curling They wanted to have the Meyer, Smith's former boss, guts. choice on whether or not to apparently ignoring domestic So where does Michigan 1257+:(677(55,725,(6 play. The schools stuck to violence complaints lodged State come into this? Well, their decision not to play but against Smith. Meyer fired they had received complaints did an about-face and there Smith in 2018 but the dam- about Nassar's behaviour AGE: 16 COMMUNITY: INUVIK will now be football being age had been done. That's and, much like Penn State Mataya is one of the more experienced played. If players don't want a hell of a lot darker than did with Sandusky, swept junior curlers in the territory, having com- to play for any reason, they a few football games being them under the carpet. All peted in several major events. She's can opt out. Simple. played. the school did was issue played at several national championships, Brennan didn't like this Maybe Brennan for- Nassar a warning about his including the 2020 Canadian Junior Curl- and that's fine. She's entitled got about Jerry Sandusky. conduct and only fired him Mataya Gillis ing Championships this past January. to crap on the decision but Remember him? He's the in 2016 after "violating" the to call it the "darkest day in former assistant coach of agreement he had made with (the) conference's sports his- Penn State who is now rot- the school to behave himself. tory" does such a disservice ting for the rest of his natural Michigan State was to plenty of other dark days life in a prison cell for sex- forced to pay out $500 mil- that have happened within ually abusing several minors lion in settlement money the conference. during his time there. I will to more than 300 victims, A short history lesson: spare you the list of what a small price to pay for its Remember that time he was found guilty of and role, I guess. Bobby Knight choked Bobby the stories behind them all I think that's a hell of a Reid in the middle of an because it's sickening but lot darker than a few football 22 NEWS/NORTH NWT, Monday, September 28, 2020 NEWS/NORTH nWT, Monday, September 28, 2020 23 24 NEWS/NORTH NWT, Monday, September 28, 2020