MÉTISVOYAGEURISSUE NO. 63, FALL 2010

ANNUAL GENERAL ASSEMBLY Métis Gather at Fort William

By Rebekah Wilson

he excitement has barely died down following the Métis Nation of Ontario’s (MNO) 17th Annual General Assembly (AGA). Several attendees have said it was one of the best assemblies to date. This year’s AGA was T held in Thunder Bay at the Fort William Historical Park (FWHP), one of the most recognized cultural and historical landmarks of the Métis Nation in Ontario. It was at Old Fort William in 1816 that the Métis declared themselves a “nation” and were presented with their flag by Alexander McDonnell of the Northwest Company. The infinity symbol emblazoned on the flag symbolized the eternal joining of First Nations’ and European cultures. The AGA, which ran from August 21st to the 23rd, attracted over 300 Métis citizens from across the province to Delegates arrive by canoe at participate in two days of business meetings and a day of cul- Historic Old Fort William in tural exploration and celebration. This year’s assembly was Thunder Bay for the 17th especially memorable because of the Province of Ontario’s Annual General Assembly of and the federal government’s declaration of 2010 as “the the Métis Nation of Ontario. Year of the Métis Nation.” continued page 15 PHOTO: Ralph Brown, Waterfront Productions

MNO AGA ISPAYIN BATOCHE HOUSING Full coverage of the NAHO’s Métis Centre Métis mark the 125th MNO’s Building Systems MNO’s 17th Annual project to build awareness anniversary of the Technical Advisor General Assembly of about Métis youth identity, Battle of Batoche in Internship Program is in Thunder Bay. health and well-being Saskatchewan. accepting applications

40025265 PAGE 15-21 PAGE 36 PAGE 4 & 22 PAGE 6 2 MÉTIS VOYAGEUR Announcements

Announcements New Staff THE MÉTIS New well-qualified VOYAGEUR FALL 2010, NO. 63 MNO staff members

by Doug Wilson As of August 9, Erin editor Chief Operating Officer Tomkins is replacing Katie-Sue Linda Lord Derejko who was MNO's Senior Hi All, Please join me in wel- Policy Analyst. Katie-Sue is off to design & production coming two new well qualified New York University where she Marc St.Germain staff members to the Métis has accepted an unsolicited A New Métis in Sudbury We wish you success Nation of Ontario. scholarship in Health Research. contributors Jett Frattin was born in Sudbury Congratulations to Nicole Taylor As of July 19, Mike Fedyk is We are blessed to have found Barbaranne Wright on August 9, 2010, weighing in at for successfully becoming a certi- replacing Janet Leader as Direc- such talented replacements but Barbara Rusk 9lbs 7oz. Congratulations to fied yoga teacher. She is starting tor of Registry/Communications. we will certainly miss both Janet Bradley Rusk mother Natalie Lemieux and her own yoga business near Bar- Janet has relocated to Toronto and Katie-Sue's dedication and Bonny Cann grandpa, Gaston also of Sudbury. rie Ontario. Nicole is a Métis citi- and recently accepted the posi- talents which they shared so Brian Cockburn zen and the daughter of the Cap- tion of Senior Policy Analyst for freely with us over the last cou- Chris Paci tain of the Hunt in region 2. the First Nations & Métis, Policy ple of years. We wish them all Chris McLeod Way to go Nicole! & Partnerships Office Regulatory the success in the world in their David I.M. Clark Love Mom and Dad Affairs & Strategic Policy Divi- future endeavours. Don McDonald sion in the Ministry of Energy. ∞ Donn Fowler Gary Lipinski New Arrival Congratulations to Kathy and Hank Rowlinson John McKinnon on the birth of Heather Moss their first child, Ava Kathern, Janet Leader born June 14th, 2010, weighing 7 Jessica Cameron Happy Birthday! Maxime Trem- lbs. 15 oz. Proud grandparents Joanne Meyer blay who turned three on July are Bob and Carol Ann McKin- Jo-Anne Parent 26th. He is the grandson of Ray- non of Uxbridge ON. Leafy Shaw mond Tremblay. Leora Wilson Lianne Dumais CAPOT FOR SALE made from new (red with black stripe) Hudson’s CORRECTION (sort of) --- Alright you aviation buffs, the pic- Marley Hodges Bay Blanket, hand sewn in old voyageur-style with hood; unisex size large ture on page 13 of the last Voyageur of Métis aviatrix, Michelle Mike Fedyk (or generous medium) shows well and very warm $220. Goodeve, and an airplane was not a picture of the plane in the Natalie Bertin Call Carole Anne, tel: 705-322-1040, [email protected] story. I’m sorry! The picture was of Michelle's own Pietenpol, not Ralph Brown the Jackaroo. This is the Jackaroo. (Cheers, Linda) Raymond Tremblay Rick Paquette New Staff Farewells Rebekah Wilson Reta Gordon Rod Pilon Scott Carpenter Changes for Education Knowledge & kindness TerryLynn Longpre Tracy Bald & Training branch will not be forgotten

contact Jennifer St. Germain, Director of MNOET is pleased to announce would like to take this time to their time and hearts to what Education and Training, is pleased two contract positions that will be announce my departure from they do, and without them, some Linda Lord, editor I to introduce Jo-Anne Parent as the working on developing and imple- the Métis Nation of Ontario. I people would have no one to RR1 Hartington, ON “Acting Regional Employment and menting the new “Employment in have accepted new employment care for them. It was a privilege K0H 1W0 Training Co-ordinator” for Region Energy” initiative established in and will be leaving the MNO working with you all. [email protected] Seven. Jo-Anne has been working collaboration with Georgian Col- shortly. Thank you to all our special Tel: 613-374-2305 with the Métis Nation of Ontario lege. During my employment with Senators and Elders who have Education and Training (MNOET) Scott Carpenter has been hired the MNO, I have met very won- mentored me throughout the If undeliverable return to: Branch since June, 2008, and has as the “Employment in Energy derful people and feel like we’re years. Your knowledge and kind- Métis Nation of Ontario gained a vast knowledge of Project Director” and Bart all part of one big family. We have ness will not be forgotten. 500 Old St.Patrick St, Unit D employment and training. She has Caughey as the “Job Developer” grown so much throughout the For now, I must say “goodbye” Ottawa, ON, K1N 9G4 extensive experience in working for the project. Scott has been years and I can honestly say we and look forward to seeing you PH: 613-798-1488 with the community and contin- with the MNOET Branch for many have gone through a lot of good again soon. Take good care of [email protected] ues to be a valuable member of years. He brings a wealth of times and trying times together. I yourselves and each other. www.metisnation.org the MNOET team. knowledge and experience on have learned so much from all of labour market issues and project you. It makes me sad that I can’t Your friend and citizen, The next Jo-Anne Parent / Acting Regional management and is passionate just take you all with me. At this Monique Raymond-Lefebvre Voyageur deadline: Employment and Training Co-ordinator about the culture and history of time, I realize it is time to move December 1st, 2010 (Region 7) Métis in Ontario. Scott has much on and will miss all of you deeply. Monique was formerly the Man- 355 Cranston Crescent, Box 621 to offer in this new role and we I am very proud of our work- ager of Family and Child Serv- PUBLICATION #: Midland, ON L4R 4L3 are thrilled to have him on board. ers who dedicate so much of ices in Timmins. PM 40025265 Tel: 705-527-1228 [email protected] Scott Carpenter / Project Director - Employment in Energy 355 Cranston Crescent, Box 621 Fight the good fight Many of you have had the Midland, ON L4R 4L3 pleasure of working with Tammy Tel: 705-527-1228 Hello Everyone, agonizing deliberation, I have Webb in her capacity as “Branch [email protected] As some of you may have decided to seize this opportunity Supervisor”. Tammy has been heard, I will be leaving the MNO and say a premature good bye to with MNO for many years and has on July 30th, 2010 to further pur- the MNO and the wonderful peo- continually proven herself to be a Bart Caughey brings with him a sue my career aspirations and ple who work tirelessly day in valuable asset in policy develop- valuable background in working education in the area of Global and day out for the Métis com- ment and program management. with Aboriginal people and a solid Public Health. This announce- munity. We are very pleased to announce network within the local commu- ment is bitter sweet because I I hope to remain closely tied that Tammy has accepted the per- nity. Bart will be a great asset to have truly enjoyed my time at the to the Métis community in manent position as the Manager the Technology Foundation’s MNO, the people I have been Ontario and wish the organiza- of Labour Market. Employment in Energy Project. privileged to work with and the tion only the greatest success in opportunities this organization the future; perhaps one day you Tammy Webb / Manager of Labour Bart Caughey / Job Developer - has afforded me; in short I am will let me come back? Market Employment in Energy not ready to leave. I thank all of you, my co-work- 26 Queen St. East 355 Cranston Crescent, Box 621 With that said however, I have ers, for making my time here so Sault Ste. Marie, ON P6A 1Y3 Midland, ON L4R 4L3 been offered what family and enjoyable. I will truly miss you all. Tel: 705-254-1768 Tel: 705-527-1228 friends keep telling me is a “once Keep fighting the good fight. [email protected] [email protected] in a lifetime opportunity” that I cannot let pass. Thus, after much Katie-Sue Derejko FALL 2010 3 Métis Nation News

September 19th • Powley Day Remember Powley

by GARY LIPINSKI tributed to the recognition of our cially with the Ministry of Natural Métis Nation of Ontario rights as a distinct Aboriginal peo- Resources (MNR) in ensuring the PRESIDENT ple within Canada. The affirmation acceptance of those rights when of the right to harvest is a compo- they are asserted. unday, September 19, 2010, nent critical to the already rich fab- We will continue to push for- marked the seventh anniver- ric that defines Métis culture. ward on the priority issues that sary of the Supreme Court Remember Steve, Rodney and you have raised with your Cap- Sdecision in R. v. Powley. This the Powley family for their per- tains of the Hunt, your PCMNO ground breaking decision ushered sonal sacrifice and commitment to representatives or me. We will in a whole new era of Métis rights the ongoing struggle for Métis continue to report progress and in Ontario and across the Métis rights. Take time to reflect on the movement as it occurs. However, Homeland. Especially important pride that each of us feels when each of us must do all we can to at this time of the year are the we look at what has been accom- ensure that the collective rights of Métis Harvesting Rights which are plished. Take time to enjoy and Métis to harvest are preserved now recognized by the Province of Ontario through our harvesting “Remember Steve, Rodney and the agreement. Powley family for their personal Throughout Ontario many sacrifice and commitment to the MNO Community Councils hold fall harvests or feasts. I, along with ongoing struggle for Métis rights.” many MNO citizens, attended the Sixth Annual Métis Rendezvous on participate in organized events, through responsible management September 18th, held this year at and be proud to be Métis, espe- of the Métis harvest in Ontario. Port Severn. Regardless of where cially in this, the Year of the Métis! The work ahead of us is great and you are, I hope you can attend one It is fair to say that in spite of a the battle will be long and hard On October 22, 1993, father and son, Steve (above) of the many harvest celebrations tremendous amount of hard work fought. and Roddy Powley killed a bull moose just outside that take place throughout the fall. and sacrifice on the part of many In the meantime, I look for- Sault Ste Marie. They tagged their catch with a I also encourage you to take a Métis, our pursuit of full recogni- ward to seeing many of you this Métis card and a note that read “harvesting my moment to reflect on how the tion of Métis rights continues. fall at our harvest gatherings and meat for winter”. This act lead to a 10-year legal Powley decision has raised the There is still much work to be observances as we celebrate our battle that ended at the Supreme Court. profile of the Métis, and con- done with the province, and espe- culture together. MNO supports Métis-specific plant use Long-Form study a first in Canada Census Study highlights unique traditional and medicinal practices of Métis in relation to plants and vegetation in southern Ontario by Gary Lipinski our voices heard in dealing with MNO President government and industry. The article below describes some of n September 15th, 2010, be presented as evidence to the t our Annual General the efforts being undertaken to the Métis Nation of Joint Review Panel that has been Assembly, August 21-23, convince the government it OOntario (MNO) released created under the Canadian Envi- A2010, in Thunder Bay, the should reverse its decision. the findings from a first-of-its- ronmental Assessment Act in Assembly passed the resolution We would like to urge you to kind traditional knowledge study order to assess the environmen- below, opposing the Govern- add your voice to the growing titled, “Southern Ontario Métis tal effects of the proposed Dar- ment of Canada’s plans to elimi- chorus of opposition to the cen- Traditional Plant Use Study”. The lington New Nuclear Build. A nate the mandatory long-form sus changes by sending a letter to study highlights some of the copy of the survey, along with an census and replace it with a vol- the Honourable Tony Clement, unique traditional and medicinal accompanying video based on untary form. Minister of Industry and/or to practices of Métis in relation to the interviews with Métis Elders The long-form census is espe- your own Member of Parliament. plants and vegetation in south- and Métis traditional resource cially important for Métis because Sample letters are available on- ern Ontario, which differ from users is available at it is used in many ways to make line at www.metisnation.org. First Nations. It also documents www.metisnation.org. notable changes to the environ- MNO President, Gary Lipinski, Minister Clement’s e-mail is: [email protected]. ment in southern Ontario over commented: “Through studies the past few decades and the like this, Ontario Métis are finally The mailing addresses and e-mail addresses for Members of Parlia- impact those changes have had being able to tell our story in the ment can be found at the following site: http://webinfo.parl.gc.ca on Métis plant and vegetation province and share our tradi- use, as identified by Métis Elders tional knowledge in order to pro- If you are interested in other efforts to oppose changes to the cen- and traditional resource users. tect Métis rights, interests and sus, more info here: http://eaves.ca/save-the-census-coalition/ The survey was supported by way of life for generations to Ontario Power Generation come. I want to thank all of the RESOLUTION 4: (OPG), as a part of its engage- Elders, Métis traditional resource Reinstatement of the Statistics-Canada Census ment of Aboriginal groups who users and MNO Community Long Form may be potentially impacted by Consultation Branch in order to Councils who had a role in mak- the Darlington New Nuclear produce the study and ascertain ing this study a reality. I also want BE IT RESOLVED that the 2010 MNO Annual General Assembly Build project. Over the last year, any potential impact from the to thank OPG for its willingness direct the PCMNO to raise opposition to the Short Form Census doc- OPG has engaged with the Darlington New Nuclear Build to work with our communities. I uments pending in the fall of 2010, and lobby the federal government MNO’s Community Councils in project on Métis way of life. know this study will be an impor- to reinstate the Long Form Census document. Northumberland, Oshawa and The study was first presented tant resource for our people Moved by: Ralph Brown Seconded by: Marlene Davidson Durham Regions, as well as the at a Métis community feast held today and for generations to MNO’s Lands, Resources and in Whitby on June 5th. It will also come.” 4 MÉTIS VOYAGEUR

MÉTIS NATIONAL COUNCIL | UPDATE Briefs: MNO President Across the Homeland 125th Anniversary Back to Speakers and panellists lunches with Batoche Celebration included former Supreme Court the Queen of British Columbia Justice, crowd of thousands gath- Thomas Berger; past-president President Gary Lipinski and A ered in Batoche, SK for the of the Indigenous Bar Associa- his wife Dianne at the invita- opening ceremonies of the 2010 tion, Mark Stevenson; and Métis tion of the Honourable Dalton “Back to Batoche” celebration. lawyers Jean Teillet and Jason McGuinty and Mrs. Teri Métis Nation citizens from across Madden, who have both served McGuinty attended a recep- the Homeland, leaders, elders, as legal counsel in several influ- tion and luncheon on Monday, veterans and guests were on ential cases on Métis rights. July 5th, 2010, at Toronto's hand for the official kick-off of Leading academics also Pinewood Studios, Canada's eight days of Métis cultural attended, offering their insight largest film and television pro- events. on the latest historical and cul- duction complex, in the pres- The much anticipated high- tural research affecting the ence of The Queen and His light of 2010—”Year of the Métis recognition of land, natural Royal Highness, The Duke of Nation”-- was the largest Back to resource harvesting and other Edinburgh. Batoche ever. During the eight- Métis rights. They included Pro- “It was wonderful to have day event between 75,000 and fessor Emeritus, Dr. Arthur Ray; the Métis Nation of Ontario 80,000 people attended to mark Gwyneth Jones; Professor Keith invited to participate,” said the 125th anniversary of the Carlson, University of President Lipinski. “Dianne Northwest Resistance. Saskatchewan; and Dr. Frank and I were honoured to repre- Métis National Council (MNC) Tough, University of Alberta. sent all the citizens of the President, Clément Chartier, Métis Nation leaders, includ- Métis Nation of Ontario at this joined host Métis Nation – ing Manitoba Métis Federation prestigious event.” Saskatchewan President, Robert President, David Chartrand, and Doucette; the MNC Board of Métis Nation of Ontario President, Governors; Leader of the Official Gary Lipinski, each moderated a Opposition, Michael Ignatieff; panel discussion. and other dignitaries for the MNC opening ceremonies, held Sun- Jim Brady monument President day, July 18, 2010. unveiled in La Ronge “This celebration is an endur- congratulates ing testament to the Métis who monument to Métis Nation fought to defend their people at A leader, Jim Brady, was Chartrand the battles of Duck Lake, Fish unveiled on July 11, 2010, in La Creek, and Batoche 125 years Ronge, SK. MNC President Clé- on re-election ago,” said President Chartier. ment Chartier joined friends and “Their determination and sacri- family of the late Mr. Brady for Métis National Council (MNC) fices allowed for our culture and the ceremony. President, Clément Chartier, heritage to survive and helped A World War II veteran, Jim congratulated David Char- the Métis Nation become an Brady, was a prominent figure in trand on his re-election as integral part of Canada.” the Métis movement. He helped President of the Manitoba The opening ceremonies The Church at Batoche. found the Métis Association of Métis Federation. were the first of the day’s events Alberta--now known as the Métis “David Chartrand has a dis- at Back to Batoche, which was Nation of Alberta--and was tinguished record of tireless dedicated to veterans. A “Métis THE POWLEY LEGACY: and representatives from the fed- instrumental in establishing the service to Métis Nation citi- Nation Veterans’ Garden” was Mapping the History of eral and provincial governments. Métis Settlements. zens in Manitoba,” said Presi- unveiled, the newest addition to Métis Nation Rights The conference featured a vari- He helped found the Métis dent Chartier. “Under his con- the Back to Batoche site. The ety of speakers and panel discus- Association of Saskatchewan, tinued leadership, the Mani- garden is the future location of a he MNC hosted a two-day sions pivotal in advancing the now known as the Métis Nation- toba Métis Federation will permanent memorial to Métis T conference on the pivotal rights of the Métis Nation. Saskatchewan. become an even stronger Nation veterans. role research plays in the recog- “The conference was an excel- Mr. Brady and Abby Halkett voice for the Métis Nation.” Later in the day, a reconcilia- nition and exercise of Métis lent opportunity to reflect on the disappeared in June 1967 while The Manitoba Métis Feder- tion ceremony took place for Nation rights. Métis Nation’s past successes in on a prospecting trip in north- ation held its province-wide descendants of the Métis, First “The Powley Legacy: Mapping having our rights recognized,” ern Saskatchewan. election on June 10, 2010. In Nation and Canadian soldiers of the History of Métis Nation said MNC President Chartier. “It Ensuring his contributions unofficial results, Chartrand the Northwest Resistance. Well Rights” was held July 16th and was also a chance to share expe- are remembered for generations was re-elected to his 5th term over 1500 people heard the 17th in Saskatoon, SK. It brought riences and expertise, and pre- to come, the new monument as President with over 80% of names of each person who together Métis Nation leaders, pare for the work still ahead in includes a description of his life the vote. fought and died read-out in community members, policy securing the Métis Nation’s right- and work on behalf of the Métis front of the Batoche cemetery. makers, legal experts, academics ful place in Canada.” Nation.

MANITOBA MÉTIS FEDERATION | UPDATE Ruth Métis land claim dismissed Wagner in Manitoba superior court Violinmaker Expert repairs The 2010 decision upholds in the Canadian courts,” said Chartier also pointed out that to all stringed the decision of a lower court MNC President Chartier. “The the decision clearly recognized instruments made in 2007, which said that the Métis Nation will not allow this there was a great delay with Bows rehaired Métis who lived in Manitoba in decision to stand and the MNC respect to the implementation of the late 1800s were not Indians will be taking active measures to allocations of land to the Métis and had no treaty rights. Mean- prepare its intervener applica- and mistakes were made in the (705) 385-2585 n July 7th Manitoba’s high- while, the MMF contends that tion.” allocation of lands to Métis chil- RR#6 Bracebridge, Ontario Oest court dismissed a Métis this land was promised to Métis President Chartier did note, dren. “We will build upon these www.wagnerviolinrepairs.com land claim for 1.4 million acres of in the Manitoba Act to allow for however, that the decision had a findings on the facts in our sub- land. The case began 26 years ago Manitoba’s entry into Confedera- number of positive findings that missions to the Supreme Court,” when the Manitoba Métis Federa- tion. It was negotiated by Louis can be built upon in the appeal to he said. tion and 17 families claimed land Riel’s Provisional Government. the Supreme Court of Canada. “This fight has been going on • New & Used that included the City of Win- The Métis National Council “The decision overturned the for well over a century and the Instruments nipeg as well as strips of land on (MNC) has announced that it will lower courts finding that Métis Métis Nation has no intention of • Bows both sides of the Assiniboine and intervene in the appeal to the do not have Aboriginal title and it backing down now. I am confi- • Strings Red Rivers. They were hoping for Supreme Court of Canada. “This recognized that there is a fiduci- dent the Métis will find justice, • Cases a ruling that would allow for a decision must be appealed to ary relationship between the and the promises made to our financial settlement. ensure Métis receive their justice Crown and Métis people.” ancestors will be fulfilled.” FALL 2010 5

PROVINCIAL RELATIONS | UPDATE Métis Harvesters MNO successful in bid for New Relationship Funding by Joanne Meyer (NRF) on behalf of MNO’s 31 Multi-Year Plan for Building Core Métis have effectively partici- Director, Intergovernmental Relations Community Councils has been Consultation Capacity. pated in many consultation TORONTO successful. As a result, the MNO The MNO has implemented a processes that have yielded and has been awarded $2.1 million unique Métis consultation will continue to yield results in he Métis Nation of Ontario annually for a total of $8.4 million process for engagement which the future. To date, the MNO has (MNO) commends the over a four year period. The was developed after extensive signed a “General Relationship TGovernment of Ontario for MNO, on behalf of its community consultations with Métis citizens Agreement” with Great Lakes continuing its support for the councils, will be receiving the across the province. This has Power Transmission. “Memoran- New Relationship Fund (NRF) maximum amount of funding resulted in the development of a dums of Understanding” and and appreciates the Ministry of available to any applicant apply- “Consultation Policy” which will “Work Plans” have been negoti- Aboriginal Affairs role in imple- ing on behalf of more than one serve Métis citizens well into the ated with several proponents on Attention menting it. community. This is great news future. major projects. Negotiations con- Over the last two years, this that will allow the MNO and its Over the past 16 months, the tinue on many other “General Métis important program has given the community councils to continue MNO has received well over 450 Relationship Agreements”. MNO and its community councils the implementation of the MNO notices from proponents, and It is expected that the MNO Trappers the opportunity to build the will receive its first instalment of capacity necessary to ensure the QUICK FACTS: funding for the 2010-11 fiscal year & active engagement of Métis in New Relationship Funding (April – August, 2010) by the end duty to consult activities across of August, 2010. Once that fund- Fishers the province. The continuation of • The MNO has received approval for multi-year NRF funding ing is received we will be able to the NRF funding will ensure that (4 years: from 2010-11 to 2013-14). proceed with the deliverables MÉTIS FISHERS Métis are able to engage with gov- identified in this year’s “Contri- The MNO’s Lands, Resources ernment and participate in mean- • The MNO will receive, on behalf of its 31 community councils, bution Agreement” and “Work and Consultation Branch (“LRC ingful consultation as develop- $2.1 Million annually for 4 years commencing April 1, 2010. Plan” including ongoing work Branch”) is in the process of ment activities around the • Revised NRF work plans must be submitted annually prior to the with and support of councils. compiling a list of Métis citizens province ramp up. beginning of each new fiscal year. with commercial fishing licenses The MNO is pleased to • Year-end reporting includes: A Final Project Report on the year’s deliv- If you require additional infor- in Ontario. Commercial fishing announce that our multi-year erables, Final Expenditure Report and Audited Financial Statements. mation contact Joanne Meyer has been and continues to be (four year) application to the at [email protected]. integral to Métis identity and way of life in Ontario. Collecting this information is important in the HARVESTING RIGHTS | ALBERTA UPDATE MNO’s ongoing efforts to pro- Culture tect Métis participation in this industry. Native Circle As well, the LRC Branch A distinct Métis would like to identify Métis citi- shares zens and families who have Indigenous been pushed out of the fishing history & harvesting culture industry by government policies as well as those Métis citizens with OPG and families who remain inter- President Gary Lipinski comments on the Métis Nation of ested in participating in commer- employees cial fishing if opportunities Alberta’s Harvesting Rights’ Case and mobility issues became available.

resident Lipinski has actively Nation Homeland and not lose The MNA trial took a lot of Métis fiddler and MÉTIS TRAPPERS followed the Métis Nation of their harvesting rights,” said Pres- time, energy and resources. dancers demonstrate The MNO’s Lands, Resources Alberta’s (MNA) harvesting ident Lipinski. There were 42 days of trial, 30 traditional jig and Consultation Branch (“LRC P rights’ case that concluded Gary went on to explain the witnesses, six experts and over Branch”) is in the process of in June. He says that just as other case. “In the MNA case, the 10,000 historical documents put compiling a list of Métis citizens Métis Nation governments bene- mobility issue is squarely before before the court. It was the On July 21st, just one month with trap lines in Ontario. This fited from the MNO’s pursuit and the Alberta court. One of the largest Métis harvesting rights’ after the rest of us celebrated information is important in support of the Powley case, the defendants, Garry Hirsekorn, is trial to date. National Aboriginal Day, the showing ongoing Métis use of MNO stands to benefit from this Métis and was born in Manitoba, “As well, our MNO lawyers-- “Native Circle”, an Ontario lands throughout Ontario and case because it deals with the but moved to southern Alberta. Jean Teillet and Jason Madden-- Power Generation (OPG) ensuring the interests of Métis important issue of Métis mobility Ron Jones is Métis and is ances- represented the Métis harvesters group that works to share trappers are being considered in within the Métis Nation. trally connected to southern and the MNA in this case. As most Indigenous culture with all consultation and accommodation Over the generations, many of Alberta, but lives near Edmonton. of you know, Jean and Jason have employees, held their own processes. The LRC Branch our Métis citizens have moved Both Garry and Ron were been the lawyers for all of the celebration at Darlington hopes to eventually compile a and continue to move throughout charged for hunting in southern Métis harvesting rights’ victories Nuclear. The Native Circle is map of Métis trap lines in the the Métis Nation. However, based Alberta. Both of them claim that in Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan open to all OPG employees of province. on the current state of the law on their mobility within the Métis and, we hope, soon in Alberta. self-identified Aboriginal or As well, the LRC Branch is in Métis rights, when a Métis person Nation should not cause them to The entire Métis Nation has confi- First Nations descent. the process of compiling a list of moves from Manitoba or Alberta lose their harvesting rights. dence in their work in fighting for The ceremony began with Métis citizens who would be to Ontario and then is accepted as a prayer offered by Dr. interested in obtaining trap lines a citizen of the MNO, that person “WE HAVE A DISTINCT HISTORY, Helene Savard, interim Presi- when they become available. loses the right to hunt. The MNO COMMUNITIES AND CULTURE dent of the new Peterbor- The MNO is fighting to ensure cannot currently issue such an AS A PEOPLE.” ough Métis Council. There that Métis citizens, like First individual a Harvester’s Card. was an arts and crafts sale, Nations people, have the first Only a person with an ancestral “The evidence and arguments and defending Métis rights and we and a sampling of Aboriginal right of refusal when trap lines connection to an historic Métis in this case stress the important know these important issues for cuisine. Three members of become available in Ontario. community in Ontario can qualify fact that the Métis Nation has an the entire Métis Nation are in the Olivine Bousquet Métis This information on potential for hunting in that area. historic homeland and we are not good hands. Dance Troupe were joined by Métis trappers will be helpful in Moreover, we are not allowed just mixed ancestry individu- “We all hope that the MNA will fiddler Alicia Blore as they the MNO’s negotiations with the to issue Harvesters Cards to Métis als....We have a distinct history, be successful in this case. A posi- presented some traditional Ontario Government. citizens who move between communities and culture as a tive decision could allow the Métis jigs. regional rights-bearing Métis people. As well, the importance MNO to look to change its Har- This is the 10th year the Register your trap line, or your communities in Ontario, unless of the MNA’s objectively verifiable vesters’ Policy in order to begin Native Circle has celebrated interest in obtaining a trap line, the Métis citizen is able to registry was key to the Métis har- addressing mobility issues. This is National Aboriginal Day with with MNO in order to ensure demonstrate an ancestral con- vesters’ defence that they are why I wanted all MNO citizens to OPG employees. OPG spon- that the MNO’s information is nection to the new regional members of the rights-bearing be aware of this case and its sors scholarships for indige- complete and includes you. rights-bearing community they Métis community.” potential impact for us. The MNO nous youth, participates in live in. The president said that this will continue to keep our citizens the Thunder Bay Aboriginal CONTACT: “The MNO’s leadership has case further reaffirms the impor- updated on this important case,” Career Fair and partnered Brian Tucker always believed this was wrong tance of the MNO’s Registry as said President Lipinski. with an Indigenous group to 807-274-1386 ext. 5 and that our people should be well as our connections to the A decision is expected in Octo- operate a hydro dam. [email protected] able to move within the Métis larger Métis Nation. ber. 6 MÉTIS VOYAGEUR Housing

Housing Opportunities THUNDER BAY | PROGRAM UPDATE Housing Building Systems Technical Program is moving Advisor Internship Program many he MNO Building Systems promote the MNO BSTAIP at Technical Advisor Intern- local and surrounding area trade Agawa hired as Métis Tship Program (BSTAIP) fairs. So far this year, the MNO pilot project is a partnership BSTAIP students attended the MNO Housing between the Métis Nation of MNO Annual General Assembly in First Nation, Inuit and Ontario, the Ontario Power Thunder Bay and the Red Rock Policy Analyst Métis Urban & Rural Authority (OPA), Confederation Indian Band Career Fair to pro- (FIMUR) Assisted College and the Government of mote their program and suc- In May, 2010, Carrianne Agawa Housing Program Canada’s Aboriginal Skills and cesses. At the AGA, the MBSTAIP was hired by MNO for the Training Strategic Investment students were also very helpful position of Housing Policy Fund (ASTSIF) and runs out of with the shuttling of delegates Analyst. Her office is in the n the Ontario March 2007 the MNO Housing Branch from out of town. MNO Housing Branch located budget, the provincial gov- located in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Currently, the MNO BSTAIP is in Thunder Bay. In the late fall I ernment announced 80 It is a two year internship with in- accepting applications for the and winter, she will be arrang- million dollars in funding for class learning and on-site training Promoting the MNO Building next cohort which is scheduled ing visits with the MNO coun- off-reserve Aboriginal housing with applied learning in shops, Systems Technical Advisor to start in January 2011. If you cils and community members units. Twenty million dollars labs and the workplace. Internship Program (BSTAIP) have a background in construc- to deliver information regard- were allocated for the Greater Since January, 2009, the MNO at local trade fairs. tion, have completed grade 12, or ing mortgages and to gather Toronto Area and 60 million BSTAIP students have attained a obtained post-secondary educa- data regarding housing gaps dollars for the rest of the milestone and finished their first Theory was and is an ongoing tion and are interested in being and the needs of the Métis cit- province. Following the semester that consisted of the learning process for the students part of a dynamic program, then izens and their communities. announcement, the Ontario completion of four Confedera- and will continue into the next contact: Federation of Indian Friend- tion College credited courses semester. As part of their Energy CONTACT: ship Centres (OFIFC), the which were: English, The Ontario Advisor course, MNO BSTAIP stu- Leafy Shaw Carrianne Agawa Ontario Native Women’s Asso- Building Code, and two technical dents fabricated a blower door [email protected] [email protected] ciation (ONWA) and the Métis math courses. Building Science display and presentation table to Tel: 1-800-891-5882 Tel: 807-626-9300 Nation of Ontario (MNO) part- nered to prepare the Ontario Off-Reserve Aboriginal Hous- ing Trust (OAHT) report, which was completed in Sep- tember, 2008, and revised in February, 2009. The OAHT OM Official Mark of the Ontario Power Authority report made recommenda- tions that, if implemented, would provide First Nations, Métis and Inuit people with safe, affordable, quality and • A two year internship with in-class learning and on-site training culturally appropriate housing. • Mentorship by skilled technicians As indicated by a recent media release from the • Applied learning in shops, labs and workplace Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services (OAHS), the OAHT report has made quite an impact. OAHS announced that MNO BUILDING SYSTEMS the First Nation, Inuit and Métis Urban & Rural (FIMUR) Assisted Housing Program is TECHNICAL ADVISOR projected to deliver 255 units, and that the FIMUR Rental Component Program is pro- INTERNSHIP PROGRAM (BSTAIP) jected to deliver 417 units. The last Request for Proposals through the FIMUR Rental Component Program closed in • NEW START DATE of JANUARY! May, 2010, and resulted in the APPLY NOW! • Financing available to those who qualify. allocation of 17.4 million dol- lars for 199 rental units. This is great news, not only because all of these facilities Are you interested in: will be open to Métis citizens to live in, but also because the construction and management • a career that of these buildings may present job opportunities for Métis challenges you? communities. The framework • home renovations of FIMUR Housing Programs specifies that the design, con- or construction? struction, maintenance, own- • traveling? ership and administration of these units must go to Aborigi- • working with diverse nal people living off-reserve in people? urban and rural communities across Ontario. • energy efficiency? FIMUR Housing Program funding is moving many Métis citizens as well as First Nations, If so, this program and Inuit people closer to obtaining affordable and safe is for you! housing in their communities. This has been a long process, but many of our Métis citizens are now taking big steps for- Metis Nation of Ontario Housing Branch - 226 South May St.,Thunder Bay, ON ward, and this is something we CONTACT: Carrianne Agawa or Leafy Shaw - Tel: 1-800-981-5882 can truly celebrate. FALL 2010 7 Community Councils

OSHAWA & DURHAM MÉTIS COUNCIL | CELEBRATING THE YEAR OF THE MÉTIS, 2010 Métis heritage festival by Rob Pilon President Oshawa & Durham Métis Council

ith visitors and partici- pants from across WOntario as well as the Maritimes, Quebec, Manitoba and British Columbia, the Oshawa & Durham Region Métis Council held its 4th Annual Métis Heritage Celebration on June 26th and 27th at Memorial Park in downtown Oshawa. The day started with rain, but by early afternoon the clouds parted and the crowds filled the park with JJ Lavallee on his fiddle. The Olivine Bousquet Métis Dancers close to 5000 people attending over the two days. fiddler, Rajan Anderson, John was filled with a varied group of of renowned Métis artist Dennis So many people pitched in to The celebration included a full Samosi with his drum, the All Our vendors and presenters. Visitors Weber--the voyageur canoe on help--from organizing, to setting suite of great Métis entertain- Relations Drumming Circle and could learn about sash-weaving loan from the MNO, and a brand up and taking down, assisting ment, anchored by the amazing JJ the Métis Fiddler Quartet among or drum-making, purchase beau- new Red River cart, built by Métis with vendors and participants, Lavallee and band (nominee for a others. We were also very hon- tiful jewellery, leather work or craftsman Armand Jerome from helping out in the various tents, 2010 People’s Choice Aboriginal oured with the fiddling of James hand-made soaps, and see inter- Manitoba. Together with the managing the stage and hosting, Music Award) from St. Ambroise, Cheechoo, one of the legendary esting displays of Métis artefacts. musicians and dancers, artisans communications and marketing, Manitoba. But the entertainment James Bay fiddlers, along with his Bringing further ambiance to the and experts, these iconic symbols and more. My sincere thanks and didn’t stop there – in addition wife Daisy and daughter Trina. park were a number of teepees-- of our proud Métis heritage deliv- gratitude to all who participated there were the Olivine Bousquet What an amazing line-up! including the new one commis- ered a wonderful experience to in helping us make this, our 4th Métis Dancers, Alicia Blore on her Complementing the wide sioned by the council and deco- the many people who attended Annual Métis Heritage Celebra- fiddle, along with a new young array of entertainment, the park rated with the beautiful paintings our event. tion, a resounding success! Honouring our Elders by investing in our youth

by Rob Pilon President Oshawa & Durham Métis Council Dennis Weber, a renowned Métis artist with his roots in Batoche, painted a teepee for the Oshawa & Durham Region Métis Council. This special teepee was on display at the 4th Annual Métis Her- arlier this year the Oshawa itage Celebration held June 26-27 at Memorial Park in Oshawa. & Durham Region Métis E Council (ODRMC) formed a partnership with the Abbeylawn Oshawa and area Métis Manor in Pickering. The goal of this partnership was twofold: community make (1) to create an event on the grounds of Abbeylawn Manor that would showcase Métis celebration a success culture to residents and their families, as well as the sur- by Rob Pilon work. So whether you played a rounding community and, Oshawa & Durham Métis Council small part or a large part, I would Senator Joseph Poitras like to sincerely thank you for (2) to work together to establish and Robert Pilon. would like to take this oppor- being an important part of this a bursary fund for Métis tunity to offer my sincere collective effort. In a way the youth. The event was capped off with I thanks and appreciation for combined effort of our commu- the announcement of the all of the hard work and com- nity is similar to the Métis sash-- Within a couple short months “Joseph Poitras and Abbeylawn mitment shown by members of a colourful combination of indi- both objectives were met with a Manor Bursary”. A total of $3200. the Oshawa & Durham Region vidual threads intertwined and resounding success! With volun- was raised to start the fund which Métis Council and our larger woven together to make some- teers from both the Abbeylawn will be used to help support Métis community in support of our thing much stronger and sub- Manor as well as the ODRMC led youth with their secondary edu- very successful 4th Annual Métis stantial than the individual by Joseph Poitras, the community cation costs. Surrounded by his Heritage Celebration. presenters to the many volun- threads. pulled together to host yet family, Joe was presented with a Events like this cannot hap- teers, organizers and helpers, Again, thanks to everyone another Métis event in the plaque that will have the names of pen without a lot of dedication, the Métis people, their families who participated in our 4th Durham region. On May 29th future recipients of the bursary. planning, cooperation and hard and friends worked together to Annual Métis Heritage Celebra- hundreds of people gathered on It was a very proud moment work. The many people who pull off what we can proudly say tion. It was a fantastic weekend the lawns of the Abbeylawn for both Joe and our council in pitched in towards making this is the largest Métis event in due to everyone's enthusiasm, Manor to learn more about our initiating a program that will help an undeniable success are the Ontario! creativity and hard work! rich Métis heritage. The crowd our youth in the future. reason it was that success. We With the risk of overlooking was able to check out numerous Further details regarding crite- should be proud that the Métis someone, I'll keep my apprecia- If you haven't checked out the vendors and presenters, listen to ria and the application process spirit was so well represented-- tion at the community level, web site be sure to click and see the fiddling of Alicia Blore, and will be posted on the ODRMC from the fantastic entertain- because I really believe it is the the great photos: cheer on the jigging of the Olivine website early in 2011. ment, great vendors, interesting community that makes this www.oshawametiscouncil.piczo.com Bousquet Métis Dance Troupe. 8 MÉTIS VOYAGEUR

GRAND RIVER MÉTIS COUNCIL | THE CONTINUING STORY OF A CANOE & A PADDLE Niimki & Inouk back at home on the water

t's been one week since Niimki and Inouk went home. I am not The winner feeling like a person with empty nest syndrome because I know the canoe and paddle were won by a magnificent person, one of the canoe, who is going to share the journey with us. Here is an update Niimki, and I from Luci Rice, the winner of our canoe and paddle draw. I paddle, am honoured that she will indeed keep our council updated on the journey.The journey is the whole reason we did this. As I receive Inouk, is updates I will write a little bit on what those two are up to. LUCI RICE — Barbara Rusk, Grand River Métis Council of Parry Sound Boozhoo, to help out and said he would It took a little doing but we take on the responsibility of The Grand River Com- have found a temporary spot in ensuring Niimki and Inouk are munity held the draw on the living room for both of them. well taken care of, never end up Saturday, June 5, 2010, B'maadzejig Dewaygunwaa is in a museum and would never be in Guelph. The ceremo- communing with them at the sold. He accepted the tobacco I nial launch took place on moment. gave him for these purposes. Saturday June 26, 2010, When we stopped at the On Monday, I told Niimki and at the West Montrose Sunoco Gas Station at Waubesh- Inouk's story with one of the Family camp. ene a woman came over before I owners of our local radio station Beginning at noon, could get out of the car and asked on the Rez and she suggested I canoe builder Marcel about Niimki. Her husband came write it up and record it for a Labelle, performed a over too. I told them a small part future broadcast. I will do this smoke ceremony. The of Niimki and Inouk's story. They over the next several weeks. maiden voyage was fur- mentioned they visit in Pointe au I hope to talk with the coor- ther celebrated with Baril on occasion in the summer. dinator of our day care centre great music, a pot luck I invited them to visit and take next Friday and invite the chil- feast, and traditional sto- Niimki and Inouk out for a pad- dren down to my mom's beach to ries. Micheline Boisvert, dle next time they come this way. tell them the story about Niimki the paddle creator, was Their journey has certainly and Inouk and how they came to on hand to meet the started in the way you had be, as well as give them a short Grand River Council for hoped. ride. the very first time. Today I spoke with my My landlord is an avid canoeist nephew Musqwuanquot. When and he came Friday morning to he comes home he usually stays take a look at Niimki and Inouk. at my mother's beach and will ask He holds a regatta each year in (left) to use a canoe once in a while. I September and invited us out on Luci Rice, winner of told him what I could remember that weekend. Niimki (the canoe) about how Niimki came to be and Paddy and I will be quite busy and Inouk (a paddle the story of Inouk. I also asked with things once they get started hand painted by him if he would accept the but we are quite content to be a Micheline Boisvert), responsibility of taking care of part of this adventure. and canoe-builder them when I pass over. I recom- Have a kind day both of you Marcel Labelle on mended to him he spend as and I will give another update in the water. much time with Niimki and Inouk a couple of weeks. as he can when he comes home. (He lives in Ottawa.) He agreed — Luci and Paddy

THE JOURNEY CONTINUES | THE LAUNCH OF NIIMKI & INOUK Métis at heart

By Bradley Rusk Micheline Boisvert, accentuated or so other souls, who braved the an already magnificent craft. And, heavy rain to see Niimki and have been around the Métis as it turns out, these two people Inouk take the next step in what world for a few years now. I am were long lost cousins--reunited we all hope is a long journey. As Inot Métis; however, through by acts of charity and talent. usual I watched from the shad- my wife, Barbara Rusk, I have I’ve heard the story of the ows. I’m always welcome at Métis been introduced into this sphere. cousins told many times. It seems events but I still feel like a ghost Niimki, the canoe, first came to touch people open to the spirit, clings to me. It is difficult to into my life as a large, bark like people who are willing to listen to explain. The eyes of the Métis thing in my garage. Resting on the trees and wind. It brought one people tell me I belong; but, I feel two wood horses, it spent the bet- man to tears that had come to our as if my blood prevents it. How- ter part of a year there. door to buy a ticket one evening. ever, on this occasion that all When my friends would come It was a good evening. broke down. I’m not sure if it was over I would always go over the list However, Niimki seemed des- the Ojibway words and ceremony of materials that went into build- tined to remain in the garage or or the complete grace exhibited ing the canoe: birch bark, cedar, travel to the odd cultural event. by Luci, Niimki’s new caretaker. ash, pine gum and bear grease. As Niimki remained silent, Barb The event pulled me in and “Where does he get the bear spent countless hours getting a washed away all inhibition. I was grease?” they would ask. “Bears, I raffle together, telling the story truly moved and felt tears emerg- assume”, would come the reply. and discovering her own identity. ing from behind corporate eyes. The world of bears is a distant The entire range of human emo- As Luci, Marcel, and Niimki cut memory in most city minds. tion ebbed and flowed. Just when through the swifter than antici- Niimki, like an urban legend, it seemed like this was never pated Grand River, I felt a sense of seemed to grow with time. Marcel going to take off, it came together. being part of something--some- Labelle, Niimki’s creator, and his Niimki is no longer in our thing good, something bigger essence are alive in this vessel. garage. than all of us. Then, the paddle, Inouk, gifted by I attended the launch with 30 I was honoured. FALL 2010 9

DRYDEN | CELEBRATING COMMUNITY, CULTURE, AND CHARM OWEN SOUND: MNO Council and Health staff organize ‘Métis Day’ in Dryden by Don McDonald Long Term Care Coordinator DRYDEN n June 25, 2010, as a Great show of hospitality typi- Ocal to the time-hon- oured Métis way, the Northwest Lakes Métis Nation of Ontario Commu- nity Council and local Health Métis Branch Program Coordinators organized a “Métis Day”. Council Although circumstances required the local council to celebrate the event later in the week, it cele- Fall Activities brated both National Aboriginal Day and the fact that 2010 is the “Year of the Métis Nation.” The following workshops have This special day provided an been planned for the Grey- opportunity to showcase the Bruce-Owen Sound area. If community, culture, and charm you are interested in attend- of the Métis in the Dryden area. Above: Northwest ing any of these work- The event also highlighted the Métis Nation - Dryden shops/activities, or want more role of the Métis Nation of Health staff information, please contact Ontario (MNO) in representing David Clark. As well, check its citizens and planning for Far left: Don McDonald our web site at: future growth. It further gave rea- and Northwest Métis www.greatlakesvoyageurs.com son to share the optimism that Nation Council Presi- (click on “coming events”). MNO President, Gary Lipinski, dent, Alvina Cimon had expressed regarding the NINTENDO WII 101 - Using recognition of the Métis by the Left: MNO President the Wii for recreation, leisure, government’s designation of Gary Lipinski and exercise. Learn how to 2010 as the “Year of the Métis use the Wii and its various fit- Nation”. As he said, “...most of all, ness programs. A recent study I felt optimism... that the best and has shown that regular use of brightest days of the Métis Nation Roussin, in organizing the event. memento of his visit to our com- was provided by Ken and the Wii can help with symp- are still ahead of us!” Those in Special guest, MNO President, munity. Jeanette Denby and Marshall tom relief in people with attendance were empowered by Gary Lipinski, was a welcome An exceptional feature of the Bazinet. The colourful presenta- Parkinson’s. similar expressions made presence and contributed to the Long Term Care Workshop was tion outside the office, the music throughout the day and shared meaningfulness of the occasion the presence of the Dryden Area echoing along the downtown the same sentiments. with both his sincere speech and Family Health Team, who pro- streets, the people crowded 24th November, HOW TO Senator Al Roussin gave the his warm and caring approach vided glucose testing and blood around throughout the duration HANDLE HOLIDAY STRESS opening prayer. The Long Term while mingling with those in pressure checks along with excel- of the event and the light lunch Lunch ‘n’ Learn Series -A Care Program Coordinator, Don attendance. A presentation was lent information on an effective and refreshments were a definite workshop presented by the McDonald, was master of cere- made to the local council presi- self-care approach to health and display of Métis hospitality. Community Network Support monies. He along with Tina Dur- dent acknowledging the impor- wellness. In addition, there were As council and staff reflected Team and the Consumer / fey, Community Action Plan for tant role of the community coun- activities for children and youth on some of the conversations Survivor Development Proj- Children (CAP-C) Program Coor- cil and exceptional effort of Pres- and our older adults and seniors and experiences of the day we ect. Lunch will be provided. dinator and Judith Williams, Abo- ident Cimon herself, in extending were welcomed with a warm concluded that it was a genuine riginal Healthy Babies/Healthy a wide range of assistance to local embrace as we cherished our show of Métis community, cul- Children, Program Coordinator, citizens and friendly support to time together. ture and charm and an excellent WALK ‘N’ TALK TO assisted the Northwest Métis the MNO Health Branch Staff. Adding to the true spirit of a way to acknowledge 2010 as the BATOCHE! Council President, Alvina Cimon President Lipinski was presented Métis celebration a remarkable “Year of the Métis”. If you are interested in a and council office assistant, Nick with a “Dryden” pin as a live performance of Métis music weekly walking group, let me know. I would like to suggest a “Walk to Batoche” by collec- tively accumulating kilometres that add up to the distance from Owen Sound to Batoche (2,729). Each of us would record our kilometres walked, on a master chart, and con- tinue until we reach Batoche.

9th December, DIABETES AND FOOT CARE CLINIC - Presented by Métis Nation of Ontario’s Health and Wellness Program and Southern Ontario Aboriginal Diabetes Initiative (SOADI). Pre-regis- tration will be required for a foot care session.

If you are interested in any upcoming activity, or would like more information, contact

David Clark / Community Wellness Coordinator Tel: 519-370-0435 or [email protected] 380 9th St. East, Lower Level Owen Sound, Ontario 10 MÉTIS VOYAGEUR

REGION 7 COUNCILS Great Lakes Moon River’s Métis Council Métis Soirée by Senator Leora Wilson n celebration of National Abo- Great Lakes Métis Council riginal Day and the “Year of [email protected] Ithe Métis”, the Moon River Métis Council held a Métis Soiree New Council Name on June 24th at the Gravenhurst Opera House. The Grey Owen Sound Métis are This evening of fiddling and now officially known as the jigging featured Métis jigger Great Lakes Métis, after the com- Jamie Koebel and the Métis Fid- munity vote at the annual com- dler Quartet. The Métis Fiddler munity meeting in April. Quartet specializes in performing Former president Ray Racicot and interpreting Canadian Abo- was interviewed by MNO and riginal fiddle music. This bilin- “ IN ONTARIO, hired as the new office co-ordi- gual French/English family group IT IS IN PLACES LIKE nator, so come out and encour- Great Lakes councillor Peter Couture, (left) is shown presenting continues to discover and pres- MOON RIVER THAT age him, as he takes on new chal- Linda Boyle (right) with a certificate of appreciation for her vol- ent the old-style fiddle tunes MÉTIS HISTORY lenges. unteerism and service to local Métis. passed down by elders from across Canada. COMES TO LIFE.” Métis Appreciation Dinner the humble origins of the mod- Summer Rendezvous The group's mandate is to ern Métis of Owen Sound and expose audiences to the unique official state visit to the United he first ever Métis Apprecia- area being shared. Many atten- reat Lakes Métis Council of diversity of Canadian Métis and States, Guatemala and Costa Rica Ttion Dinner, held at the Best dees commented on how strong GOwen Sound held a sum- Native fiddle and to educate to share her experiences as a per- Western Inn on the Bay this past and in how brief a time, the mer rendezvous on July 17th at through participation. This is forming artist. Ms. Koebel April, was an unqualified suc- Métis identity has been re-estab- Durham Saugeen Conservation accomplished by means of musi- believes that having a positive cess. All those invited were past lished in this area. Park. A Grand Entry proceeded cal performances, educational outlook while dancing is one way and present council members, as to the picnic area over the dam presentations, and interactive to show the pride that you have well as dedicated volunteers. All the best, Melanie! at the McGowan Falls south workshops for both Aboriginal in your culture. Special music was presented access. and non-Aboriginal audiences. “The Year of the Métis will be by Piyak Ootihi (One Heart) est wishes to Melanie Hamil- The rest of the day was filled Professional Métis jigger, celebrated in Ontario along the Métis Drummers. Dinner speak- Bton, the first ever office coordi- with activities and entertain- Jamie Koebel, whose fancy foot water routes of the province, ers were MNO President, Gary nator for Great Lakes Métis Coun- ment: canoe races; fish fry; bar- work sets the standards for jig- around the Great Lakes and Lipinski; Manager of Community cil, as she leaves us to take on new becue; horseshoe tournament; gers, also appeared. As a solo throughout the historic north- Relations, Hank Rowlinson; and, employment. Our council and bingo games; children and youth dancer, Jamie has won several west,” said Gary Lipinski, Presi- Land, Resources and Consulta- community owe her a debt of grat- activities; vendors’ tables; penny Métis jigging competitions across dent of the Métis Nation of tion Director, Melanie Paradis. itude for her serv- table; fishing; swimming; horse Canada and the US. In 2009 she Ontario. “In Ontario, it is in This unique event was planned ice over the past and buggy rides; a music jam- won first place at the only inter- places like Moon River that Métis and organized by Peter Couture, few challenging boree; campfire; and, drum- national Métis festival held on the history comes to life, and the as well as Great Lakes Métis months and we ming. North Dakota and Manitoba bor- Métis Soirée, is the perfect way to office coordinator, Melanie wish her the very A good time was had by all. If der. The same year she was asked celebrate the rich history and the Hamilton. A good time was had best in all new ven- you missed it, plan to join us by the Governor General of proud traditions of our vibrant by all, with lots of stories about tures. next year. Canada to accompany her on an and colourful culture.” FALL 2010 11

NIAGARA REGION MÉTIS COUNCIL | FAMILY DAY ON THE NIAGARA RIVER Second Chance canoe by Rick Paquette Niagara Region Métis Council

his past July in the Niagara Peninsula was a hot one; T so hot in fact that the gov- ernment had to issue heat advi- sories for four days because the humidex was over 50C. This was just before our annual summer picnic which was extra special as we would also be host- ing the official launch of our new birch bark canoe. The organizing committee was worried about the people and all the food. With tem- peratures like that it wasn't going to be easy. Two days before the launch it started to rain and con- tinued until Friday afternoon when it finally stopped. By Satur- day morning it was beautiful-- about 27C with no humidity and gorgeous powder blue skies. The work party arrived around 7:30 to thank you for the canoe. about how all that sharing and cases, not at all. territory under one government, get things ready for the day which Then it was Marcel's turn to working together changed when When I see Métis Elders like seems for the moment to be would be packed full of activities address the crowd. He started by government and business saw Marcel Labelle and others like Joe embracing its ‘Second Chance’ to such as snow shoe races, bannock speaking about our county's his- Canada as a way to make money. It Paquette, sharing, teaching, and treat the original people of this making and canoe races. tory and how vital the wikwas tchi- became a very dark time for the showing respect, not only in our land fairly--as equals. So, just as We had almost 100 people man (birch bark canoe) was to the First Nations people and I know community but in the First Nations many generations ago, the people there to take part in the day, watch people back then. Life was hard as that they suffered a great deal, as community, and the non-aborigi- of this land are starting to get the the canoe ceremony and witness there were no roads and no stores, did the Métis. In some ways, I nal community, I know that there recognition they so rightfully its historic launch. Marcel Labelle yet people survived. They were think we had it worse. It became a is still hope. In Marcel's speech he deserve. Again, maybe through arrived with his wife, Joanne and able to survive because they time of mistrust between the First talks about reconciliation and the same gift of the Wikwas Tchi- their grandson Alexandre, and of respected the land, and they Nations and the Europeans and Prime Minister Steven Harper's man, this is why the name ‘second course our new birch bark canoe. worked together. As Marcel put it, that spelled disaster for the Métis. apology to the Aboriginal people. chance’ came to me. Let's get it When it was time to start the cere- the waterways were the highways In most cases we just hid, blended This is how the name of our canoe right this time.” mony, I opened by thanking all the and the wikwas tchiman was in, vanished, or went under- came to him. He told the crowd of This was a proud moment for MNO staff, community volunteers, something that his Anishinabec ground. It was a dark and sad cou- almost 100 people, “I am very opti- our community and a great time to and the NRMC for their hard work grandparents shared with his ple hundred years. Our people mistic, as a result of this process, join together to honour the land to make the day happen. I also European grandparents. That is a concealed our identity in public, that the residents of Canada, even and celebrate our culture. This is a welcomed all of the citizens and nice feeling and one that we as and only spoke of it at home or though its culture is merely one wonderful gift that Marcel has out of town guests as well as two Métis can all share. He also spoke with our community, and in many defined by a large geographical given us through the grant that he members of the District School received from The Ontario Arts Board of Niagara, Shirley Scott and Council, and we are honoured to Maureen Alderdice, who made it receive it. possible for Marcel to build the (above) The inaugural launch With the work that President canoe at Fort Erie Secondary of “Second Chance”. Vice Gary Lipinski, the PCMNO and the School. This was unheard of until President Derrick Pont, MNO staff are doing on our behalf, now and especially nice because it Youth Rep. Andrea Paquette combined with the teachings of gave Marcel a chance to share his and artisan Marcel Labelle. our Métis elders and local events wisdom and our Métis culture with like this one which are taking students in the community. On (right) Andrea Paquette, place in communities all across behalf of council, I presented Mar- Youth Rep; Derrick Pont, Ontario, and the rest of Canada, I cel with two hand carved decoys Vice President; and, Sarah am certain that “2010 the Year of made by Bernard Paquette as a Macdonald, Secretary. the Métis” is only the beginning. Canoe launch and Red River cart family day in Welland beats the rain by Barbaranne Wright Upcoming Events by Kelly Paquette The weather was against us. Niagara Region Métis Council Niagara Region Métis Council It rained all night before and for most of the day. In true Métis he weather was perfect as our NOVEMBER 12 n June 6, 2010, the Niagara fashion, the members of our Métis family attended this Harvest Potluck Dinner Region Métis Council partic- council quickly tied some tarps Tvery special occasion--Family Oipated in the annual spring to the trees for shelter, set up Day and Canoe Launch on Mer- NOVEMBER 16 fair hosted by the Parks and our MNO banner and our flags. ritt Island, Welland, Ontario. Louis Riel Day, Flag raising Recreation Department of the We pulled the Red River cart out Great fun was had by all! at Welland City Hall City of Niagara Falls. The event in front of our display table There were games; a snow- was held at the Willoughby His- which featured MNO and coun- shoe race; bannock baked over Please visit our web site at: torical Museum a few steps from cil information. an open fire; canoe races (and www.niagarametiscouncil.ca for the beautiful Niagara River. Even with the bad weather yes, Dalton Vander Sanden and I more details. The theme of this year's this event was well attended, partnered and came in first). I Canoe-maker Marcel Labelle For info contact Barbaranne: event was “The Importance of including dignitaries Kim could not have done it without with “Second Chance” [email protected] wheels throughout our Lives”. Craitor, Niagara's MPP; and, Ted you Dalton! The NRMC’s Youth Representa- Salci, Mayor of Niagara Falls. The Marcel Labelle brought his tive, Andrea Paquette, was doing Red River cart caught the atten- family and the canoe called Sec- We also want to thank Senator The health team was on hand a high school co-op at the tion of everyone and many peo- ond Chance. The Niagara Region Andre Bosse, and his wife Brenda to make sure the food was ready museum. When she heard of the ple thought that it was an origi- Métis Council was very fortunate from Northumberland for attend- for all the citizens who came out theme, she told the project nal. Members of our council in and grateful to receive it. Thank ing the event, and Virginia Barter to celebrate this day together. We coordinator that we had a Red their regalia mingled with the you, Marcel! It means a lot to the and her husband Sandy, who are truly thankful for the wonder- River cart. The coordinator sent crowd and talked with the other citizens, of this region. Everyone attended on behalf of the Métis ful Métis family we are a part of us an invitation asking us to exhibitors. This was a good day deserves a second chance. Artists’ Collective in Toronto. here in Niagara. attend. for all even in the rain. 12 MÉTIS VOYAGEUR

GENEALOGY & GENETICS Captains Corner Family by Ken Simard ello to all Métis citizens! Well it's that time of year again--time to gather Finding Hwood for the camp stove to keep warm this hunting By Donn Fowler whom we share some yDNA or season. As for the hunters mtDNA (male and female chro- who are ready to harvest for n pursuit of information con- mosomes). With this genetic food make sure you hunt in a cerning our family roots it information we can distinguish safe manner at all times. Fol- becomes obvious that we “cousins” who have our exact left to right: John Leroux, Cornwall, ON; Conrad Leroux, Mon- low the rules and come home amateur family genealogists haplotype, from those who may treal, QC; Vern LaRue, Lansdowne, ON; Gaetan Leroux, Corn- safely. Isoon exhaust our resources. We have a few markers which are dif- wall, ON; Steve Fleury, Brewerton, NY; Brenda Bradley, Morris- If you have any encounters experience so many problems ferent from our own. burg, ON and Senator Jacques Leroux, Bruce Mines, ON. with an officer or other prob- searching for our ancestors that I have only one last genetic bit lems in the forest first thing we become mired in the huge of information to obtain. It is you do is contact the Captain matrix of first and last names to called “Family Finder”. However, of the Hunt in your Region. which we are exposed. Often, the it is limited at present because it Leroux family gathers Good luck to all! initial names are well known to can only go back a few short gen- us because we are more closely erations. The science is fairly to honour ancestor related. Geneticists refer to these new, more expensive, and only Please note that in the last as our known “Most Recent Com- recently available to those who by Jacques Leroux the town and church. edition of the Voyageur, page mon Ancestor” (MRCA). Accord- have completed “full genetic We found out that their 6, we erroneously credited ingly, we can go only so far in the sequencing” (FGS)--those who n June 19, 2010, the headstones had deteriorated, Cameron Burgess with being process of genealogically digging have completed the 67 markers Leroux family, after a so we decided to have one Captain of the Hunt for for gold. (as distinct from, say, the 12 O long search, found the made of granite for them. It Region 2. Ken Simard is in fact When we take the plunge into marker test). The new Family burial place of our ancestors, seemed like the right thing to Captain of the Hunt for researching our families, we usu- Finder is the Family Tree DNA’s Jean Roux and his wife Judith do. Now we have a marker to Region 2. We apologize for ally begin with our own birth sur- new test to determine closest Amard, at Chateauguay Que- visit. It's a nice thing when we any confusion. names, then those of our par- family relationship. bec. As it turns out, they were can do something for our ents, grandparents, and so on. one of the founding families of ancestors. What finally stops us cold is the magnitude of the doublings that “What finally stops us cold is the occur: two parents from four MÉTIS CRAFTSMAN | SENATOR TRIES HAND AT METALWORK grandparents, four grandparents magnitude of from eight great-grandparents, the doublings eight great-grandparents from that occur.” sixteen great-great-grandparents; sixteen great-great-grandparents The Family Finder, which will from thirty-two great-great-great- be coming to me in the next sev- grandparents, and so on into a eral weeks, will end my quest for brick wall. It becomes necessary genetic ancestral information for us to concentrate on those and my search for our Métis and names which are most likely to Indian roots. I expect to learn keep the chain of ancestors rea- more about the haplogroups to sonably accurate as we make which each belongs in addition newer discoveries. to their respective specific haplo- We can also run into hyphen- types that are, like my own, Métis ated names such as, “Sedore- and Indian yDNA and mtDNA to Dafoe”, or spelling changes. complete my own final search, These names tend to compound thanks to the FT-DNA’s genetic the process of identifying our team, the National Geographic’s true ancestors. We immediately National Genographic Project Beautiful birds -- but they recognise our genealogical limi- and IBM’s initiatives in providing tations. At that point we could this public service, including turn to determining our own Ysearch.org and Mitosearch.org will never fly genetic information (DNA), a made available to clients. process already described in pre- The FT-DNA can be found on by Senator Jacques Leroux I always wanted to try my These are my first three vious issues of the Voyageur. the reader’s computer browser if BRUCE MINES hand at metal art. I was a pieces. The two geese are my In the search for verification desired; just type FT-DNA and welder for many years and I rendition and tribute to Ben- of our ancestors, the contempo- you’re there. would like to show our admired other people’s metal jamin CheeChee's great work. rary use of genealogy combined It’s easy to become so younger Métis citizens that sculptures. Now I have the time The silver bird (far right) with genetics has given us a new embroiled in the search that we I when one retires one can and I thought I would give it a was named “Larry” by my wife, means of identifying formerly lose sight of what instigated it—the do many things to fill up the try, to see what I could put out after Larry Bird the basketball unknown “cousins”, those with birth of our first Métis ancestor. days and weeks. there. player. FALL 2010 13

NORTH BAY MÉTIS COUNCIL |

put on by the health and educa- tion program drew a good crowd as it did indeed turn out to be Around very sunny, but somehow very wet. Water balloons were out for the whole day; anyone in t-shirt and shorts volunteered them- selves as targets. The North Bay Blue Sky Métis Council even managed to have a short meeting surrounded by 6 to 60 year olds unloading Glowing camp fires warm the cusp every sort of water pistol. Good between summer and fall times and a nice lunch as well. WELCOME BACK, AMANDA! by Brian Cockburn the sheared beaver pelt being the September saw Amanda Des- North Bay Métis Council most surprising to the passing bien returning to Healthy Babies youth. Behind us, Lorraine Mon- and Healthy Children at 101 Wor- treuil can be heard doing her thington St. East (Tel: 705-476- eptember 25th, 2010, the drumming workshop as the ecol- 2339). Onyx Reath Maksoud was North Bay Métis Council ogy team, dressed in their sashes, born August 19th, 2009, and it’s enjoys the Feast of the demonstrate a number of Métis hard to believe a year has passed, Harvest Moon at Dutrisac games. but Amanda was going over her CottagesS in Sturgeon Falls. Wood plans for her office in July. ducks pass overhead as this RELAY FOR LIFE annual harvest gathering serves The “Relay for Life” attracted a INTERIM MATTAWA up a dinner of fish and corn; the Métis team to Sturgeon Falls--an (top) Roger Labelle discusses canoe construction with students at COMMUNITY COUNCIL glowing camp fires warm the over-night walk from 7:00 PM to Scollard Hall. (left) Sabrina Roy-Metcalfe and her 2 year old son, A birth of a different variety-- cusp between summer and fall. 7:00 AM for the Cancer Society, Samuel at the Fun in the Sun picnic. (right) Susan Van der Rassel Mattawa has formed a new It’s the end of a very busy sum- thousands of flickering candles, and son, Ishmael after the 12-hour Relay for Life. The candle was interim community council. Nel- mer, looking back to the start with tears in the rain, a very personal for her mom Rita, a victim of cancer. son Montreuil previously of the an invitation to St. Joseph-Scol- walk for loved ones lost, but a wit- PHOTOS BY LINDA KRAUSE AND BRIAN COCKBURN North Bay Métis Council is the lard Hall High School, in North ness to a huge parade of those acting president until the first Bay, for an aboriginal appreciation who survived. election. A good group in Mat- day. On the same day as the Relay, Monique Smith, part of the Cul- twelve year olds entertained with tawa means another council for Roger Labelle hauls a birch Senator Marlene Greenwood rep- tural Approach Research and a multitude of events from July Blue Sky Region 5. Congratula- bark canoe from Mattawa joining resented the Métis, as our Elder, Mapping project sponsored by 6th to August 12th. tions! us at the Mattawa Ecology Centre at a cultural gathering put the Ontario Trillium Foundation. I would also like to congratu- between the Métis flags. Roger together by the North Bay Friend- Around the office Linda FUN IN THE SUN late Jason Jamieson as he moves talks about the canoe’s construc- ship Centre. Krause, MNOET, had the summer A number of the toddlers also into his new position as MNO tion as Marc Laurin explains to the The North Bay Métis Council youth program up and running, joined in the summer “Fun in the Health Branch Supervisor for students the variety of furs laid unveiled the new logo (see Katelynn Peplinskie and Allison Sun” day at Lee Park on July 16th. Community Wellness, one of my out on his table, the softness of below) with a visit from MPP Smith kept a group of five to The annual Métis family picnic, favourite pieces of Blue Sky.

CARM Chair, Mel Jamieson; Mary Lou Arrowsmith, Trillium Foundation; Sena- tor Marlene Greenwood; Nipissing MPP, Monique Smith; North Bay Métis Councillors Marc Laurin and Doris Evans. North Bay Métis Council unveil new logo

by Brian Cockburn an inventory of local Métis history “to North Bay Métis Council preserve the rich heritage that the Métis have---and highlight the Métis commu- n June 18th, 2010, the North nity here in North Bay.” Bay Métis Council hosted the Mary Lou Arrowsmith, the Trillium O unveiling of its new logo in the Foundation representative, also com- Greenwood room of the Métis Centre as mented: “Your on-going research will well as the official presentation of a two help to identify the contribution of the year, $149,500 grant from the Ontario Métis in our region.” CARM chairperson Trillium Foundation. Senator Marlene Mel Jamieson thanked the Ontario Tril- Greenwood opened the session with a lium Foundation for the funding, men- prayer by Chief Dan George, and then tioning other sections of this project, Ben Farella, the consultant for the proj- such as the establishment of a new iden- ect, introduced the noted speakers. tity for the North Bay Métis with a gover- “I love your logo”, stated Nipissing nance manual, and a web site to bridge MPP Monique Smith as she discussed our Métis culture with the world. Trillium and the Cultural Approach Research Mapping (CARM) project Video of the event can be seen on which will develop a cultural map plus Facebook at “North Bay Métis”. 14 MÉTIS VOYAGEUR

REMEMBRANCE DAY | ABORIGINAL VETERANS That elusive peace

By Donn Fowler Canada’s many “peace-keeping” missions have occupied much n the 1930s, while living in military time and energy, and have Kingston, Ontario, then a mil- to be kept in mind. itary city, we elementary The League of Nations of 1920 school children had neither failed to ensure peace, and it Ithe knowledge nor a clear seems to many people that the understanding of what the United Nations has not made “Eleventh hour of the Eleventh much, if any, real or lasting Day” of each November really progress in preventing armed meant, except that it seemed to conflicts throughout the world be a very important event in time, either--certainly not in Palestine, and one that our teachers called, nor in Afghanistan. “Our Armistice Day”. I had Meanwhile, we Aboriginals col- thought then that everybody in lectively—Indian, Inuit, and the whole world had to stand and Métis—in Canada, have always be quiet for two long minutes and continuously put our lives on (with our heads properly bowed the line in order to defend against in the long silence)—until the any potential threat to our rural principal rang the school bell and or urban homelands--those places we could all sit down again, but which we all respect and love. none the wiser. Moreover, we’ll likely continue to However, in September of A Canadian soldier at the Second Battle of Passchendaele in Belgium, 1917. do the “right thing” whenever 1929, I had been registered in we’re called upon to make a just King Edward Public School in and rightful stand to keep that Peterborough, Ontario, two brother, Arthur, and therefore my my paternal great grandfather, American incursion into Canada elusive peace in sight, but what months short of being age five. “uncle” from Kingston who was a Samuel, also had been a deco- foreshadowed the wars with Ger- price will lasting peace demand? Already, as a small child, I had career Canadian Army non-com- rated Canadian soldier in an ear- many in 1914-1918, and 1939- been badly frightened by a very missioned officer and soldier. lier action to thwart a threatened 1945 in which my father James tall, uniformed man who had Both that distinguished looking incursion into Canada from the and I both participated, overseas. Donald (Donn) Fowler enlisted walked boldly up and onto the man, and his own father, Alfred— United States, by an Irish moti- “Our war” was not only against as a 14-year-old in the Cana- porch of our home on Prince my paternal grandfather—had vated conglomeration of “Fenian Nazi Germany, but also against dian army in June, 1940. As a Street in Peterborough, and then returned, almost unscathed, from Raiders”, near Brockville, Ontario. Italy and Japan. That period in his- member of the Glengarry High- warmly greeted my parents. Only France following “the war to end In retrospect, the French and tory became the precursor of the landers he landed in Nor- much later did I learn that that all wars” in 1918. Indian War of 1754-1763, and the United Nations’ North Korean mandy, France with a wave of man was my father’s oldest Some years later I learned that War of 1812-1814 against the conflict of the 1950s. In addition, D-Day reinforcements in 1944.

Construction Heavy Duty and Maintenance Equipment Electrician Technician Level One Level One

What is Level One Training Program? What is Level One Training Program? The Level One Training Program helps The Level One Heavy Duty Equipment potential entrants to the apprenticeship sys- Technician Training Program helps potential tem develop their job skills and trade readi- entrants to the apprenticeship system ness, so, that they will be prepared to find develop their job skills and trade readiness so work as apprentices. that they will be prepared to find work as apprentices. What is the Level One Construction and Maintenance Electrician Training What is the Heavy Duty Equipment Program all about? Technician training program all about? The Level One Construction and Mainte- The Level One Heavy Duty Equipment nance Electrician Training Program has been Technician Training Program has been cre- created to meet the important and growing ated to meet the important and growing needs of Aboriginal Communities of Sault needs of Aboriginal Communities in the Ste. Marie and surrounding area. This 23 Superior East area of the Algoma District. week long program provides the equivalent This 23 week long program provides the to Level One Construction and Maintenance equivalent to Level One Heavy Duty Equip- Electrician Training, the same as required by ment Technician Training, the same as the Apprenticeship Branch for that trade. required by the Apprenticeship Branch for Successful graduates who secure apprentice- that trade. Successful graduates who secure ship positions in the trade will need only to apprenticeship positions in the trade will write an exemption exam and do not have need only to write an exemption exam and to repeat the training. In addition, the pro- do not have to repeat the training. The pro- gram provides academic upgrading and train- gram provides academic upgrading, life and ing in renewable energy, green construction study skills and construction industry safety, and construction safety. tools, equipment and practices.

PROGRAM COSTS: While there are no PROGRAM COSTS: While there are no costs to participate in the program, out-of- costs to participate in the program, out-of- town students are responsible for their own town students are responsible for their own travel and/or accommodations. Textbooks, travel and/or accommodations. Textbooks, tools and safety equipment are provided for tools and safety equipment are provided for the students registered in the program. The the students registered in the program. The program concludes with a 4 week paid work program concludes with a 4 week paid work placement. placement.

LOCATION: This program will be delivered LOCATION: This program will be delivered in Sault Ste. Marie at the Batchewana and on the Michipicoten First Nation, in Wawa at Garden River First Nations as well as at Sault the Superior East Training Centre and in lab / College. shop sites in the Wawa area.

Contact the Aboriginal Apprenticeship Centre: Sault Ste. Marie (Sault College office) 705-759-2554 ext 2587 Blind River (Employment Solutions office) 705-849-3187 www.aboriginalapprenticeship.ca FALL 2010 15 CELEBRATINGTHEYEAROFTHEMETISNATION 17TH ANNUAL GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE METIS NATION OF ONTARIO FORT WILLIAM HISTORICAL PARK • THUNDER BAY ON AUGUST 21ST TO 23RD 2010 , AGA2010 ,

LIVING HISTORY, MAKING HISTORY Métis Gather at Fort William

from page 1 were introduced, and lasting memo- ries were made. In addition to the three day Métis are known to work hard assembly, citizens participated in and play hard, but at the AGA work proponent consultations; youth had to come first. Pre-AGA activities bunked together and embraced included proponent meetings with their individual identities at FWHP’s the Ontario Power Authority (OPA) Bell House. Métis Veterans, Sena- and the Nuclear Waste Management tors, Women, Presidents and Youth Organization (NWMO). OPA met to assess their accomplish- informed citizens about grants and ments of the past year, and to define programs available to the MNO and paths for the year ahead. Resolu- its community councils. Thanks to tions were put forward and sugges- MNO’s extensive lobbying, the MNO tions made to keep the MNO and its community councils were advancing, and everyone was given included in the legislation as one of the opportunity to experience the the groups eligible to apply for these lifestyle of their ancestors as it project opportunities. NWMO gave existed centuries ago in the attendees an overview of their site- nation’s infancy at Old selection process and encouraged Fort William. Old interested communities to request acquaintances further information sessions. Citi- laughed and zens were also able to participate in reminisced; new the Woodland Caribou Workshop friendships which discussed the traditional blossomed as knowledge involved with the cari- fresh faces bou harvest. Speakers for all three PRESIDENT LIPINSKI THANKS presentations provided listeners with both pertinent information and TIRELESS MNO STAFF the opportunity to make a differ- ence in the future. fter a very successful conclu- To all the staff who were not The importance of proponent sion to MNO’s 17th AGA, I able to attend, that had to hold meetings was stressed later in the A want to pass along my sin- the (other) “fort(s)” down so to AGA by Métis lawyer, Jason Madden, cerest appreciation to all MNO speak--keep the other offices and who said, “These meetings are more staff for all that you do. I know programs going--I know you than just an intake of information. many of you worked tirelessly were with us in spirit and we These meetings help to keep Métis prior to and during the AGA to wish you could have been there. on the map. They are evidence that make it the success it was. Your Your contributions are equally we do exist in the same way that our hard work, planning, prepara- appreciated, thank-you. ancestors made their presence tion, etc, is directly related to the All staff, you are doing an amaz- known a hundred years ago.” success and the enjoyment had ing job that has been reflected in MNO President, Gary Lipinski, by all those in attendance. I also the growth of the MNO and its spoke to attendees at the consulta- want to mention how much it positive momentum. tions about his hope that they was appreciated that some staff Once again, thank-you for all would “turn these opportunities gave up their tickets to the Gala that you do! into realities,” in the near and long- dinner to ensure MNO citizens On behalf of all MNO citizens, term future. and leaders were able to attend; leaders, PCMNO and others, it was another example of your well done. Hydro One Contributes generosity and dedication, thank- you to those that made this sac- by GARY LIPINSKI A presentation of $25,000 from rifice. The Gala dinner was a Métis Nation of Ontario Hydro One was made to the MNO wonderful evening. PRESIDENT during the OPA proponent ses-

continued page 16 PHOTOS BY Marc St.Germain EXCEPT WHERE NOTED 16 MÉTIS VOYAGEUR Annual General Assembly

PHOTO: Ralph Brown left to right: Métis Nation of Alberta President, Audrey Poitras; Ontario Minister of Tourism and Culture, Michael Chan; Minister of Aboriginal Affairs, Chris Bentley; Métis National Council President, Clément Chartier; MP for Toronto-Centre, Bob Rae.

PHOTO: Ralph Brown PHOTO: Ralph Brown left to right: MPP for Thunder Bay-Atikokan, Bill Mauro; Acting Mayor of Thunder Bay, Linda Rydholm; MPP for Thunder Bay-Superior North, Michael Gravelle; MP for Simcoe North and Chair for the Commons Committee on Aboriginal Affairs, Bruce Stanton; MP for Thunder Bay Superior North, Bruce Hyer.

from page 15 the consultations. President, Clement Chartier; Peter Rivers, Theresa Stenlund, gratulated the MNO for its initia- After all their hard work, citi- Métis Nation of Alberta President, Anita Tucker, Senator Gerry Bed- tives in the fields of education sion. The money will benefit zens were ready to kick off their Audrey Poitras; the Hon. Michael ford, JoAnne Wass, and Joseph and training, housing and health. Métis students pursuing careers moccasins and put on their danc- Gravelle, Minister of Northern Poitras. in the energy sector. ing shoes. When Friday night’s Development, Mines and Once out of the canoes, digni- State of the Nation “The MNO will continue to Provisional Council of the Métis Forestry; the Hon. Chris Bentley, taries joined in a procession that grow. Through positive relation- Nation of Ontario (PCMNO) Meet Minister of Aboriginal Affairs; included Métis Veterans, Women, In his State of the Nation address, ships we will move our agenda & Greet by the campfire was PCMNO Vice-Chair, Sharon Senators, Youth and Olympic President Lipinski thanked all in forward,” said President Lipinski. rained out, the Thunder Bay McBride; PCMNO Chair, France Torchbearers. Youth in the pro- attendance for their presence Following each presentation, Métis Council invited citizens to Picotte; Senator Bob McKay of cession were outfitted with tradi- and dedication; for coming from the floor was opened up to ques- gather in their Community Cen- the Thunder Bay Métis Council; tional Métis dress. As the proces- all parts of the province to share tions and comments by citizens tre. It turned out to be a great Anna Gibbon, Aboriginal Liaison sion entered FWHP, citizens in celebrating the AGA, and this, eager to have their say. The night--a very large crowd, snacks, with the City of Thunder Bay; standing-by joined in as they the Year of the Métis. “It is time majority of the concerns sur- beverages, good music and a that we, the Métis people, are rec- rounded how Métis traditional chance to catch up with one ognized in this province and land would be preserved with the another. “IT IS TIME THAT WE, THE MÉTIS PEOPLE, country,” said President Lipinski. implementation of these projects The AGA officially got under ARE RECOGNIZED IN THIS PROVINCE “We have been here since before and what considerations had way bright and early on Saturday AND COUNTRY,” said President Lipinski. Canada was Canada.” As part of been made in regard to long-term morning, August 21st. Evoking his speech the president spoke management. memories of the fur trade era, the “WE HAVE BEEN HERE SINCE BEFORE passionately about Métis involve- “Having your voice heard is emotional opening ceremony CANADA WAS CANADA.” ment and historic sites which part of your legacy to the Métis began with the voyage of three have contributed to the growth people,” said Director of Lands, canoes filled with honoured dig- of Ontario and Canada itself. Resources and Consultations, nitaries. FWHP staff steered the Linda Rydholm, representing the wound their way through the Michael Chan, Minister of Melanie Paradis, in response to canoes from shore to the wharf Mayor of Thunder Bay; Bill park. The sight of citizens in tra- Tourism and Culture and the Min- several citizens who asked ques- where they were greeted by Mauro, MPP of Thunder ditional dress and colourful ister responsible for Fort William tions and put forward comments eager citizens and park staff who Bay/Atikokan; Bruce Stanton, MP sashes filled everyone with pride Historical Park, highlighted grow- following the consultations. welcomed the AGA to Thunder of Simcoe North; Denis Hubert- as they celebrated their Métis ing opportunities for MNO citi- Métis youth were also asked to Bay and to the park. “[The entire Dutrisac, College Boréal Presi- ancestry. zens in the travel and tourism speak following the NWMO con- opening ceremony] made the dent; Sergio Buonocore, General Then it was down to business. industry and also congratulated sultation about their opinions on hair stand up on the back of your Manager of FWHP; Peter Boyle, Government Ministers, local MPs the MNO for its work in preserv- the proposed Deep Geological neck,” said President Lipinski, Manager of FWHP; PCMNO Sena- and MPPs also spoke, offering ing Métis history and culture. Repository. The youth who spoke who was particularly moved. tor, Reta Gordon; PCMNO Secre- greetings and speaking to the Following the speeches, an were open-minded and presented Canoe occupants included: tary/Treasurer, Tim Pile; PCMNO MNO’s success in the past year historic Memorandum of Under- well thought out responses to the MNO President, Gary Lipinski; Youth Representative, Nicholas and the strength of Métis-govern- standing (MOU) was signed presenters as well as their fellow former MNO President, Dr. Tony Callaghan; and, PCMNO Council- ment relationships at the federal, between the Métis Nation of citizens. Many youth said that they Belcourt; Thunder Bay Métis lors Cameron Burgess, Maurice provincial and municipal levels. Ontario and the Métis Nation of felt more familiar with the topics Council President, Wendy Sarrazin, Senator Ruth Wagner, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs, the Alberta (MNA), the first MOU of for having been present during Landry; Métis National Council Art Bennett, Marcel Lafrance, Honourable Chris Bentley, con- its kind between two provincial FALL 2010 17 Annual General Assembly

Past MNO President Tony Belcourt and MNO President Gary Lipinski.

PHOTO: Ralph Brown, Waterfront Productions

left to right: fiddlers at Historic Old Fort William, Opening procession of 17th Annual General Assembly.

Métis governments. The MOU leagues and friends, including was signed by President Lipinski President Lipinski, Chair France and MNA President, Audrey Picotte, Secretary Treasurer Tim AGA 2010 Poitras, to help strengthen ties Pile, and Métis lawyers Jean Teillet What a and as a formal commitment to and Jason Madden, roasted--and work together, to learn from one toasted--Dr. Belcourt. They Wonderful another, and, to create a more reminded Tony of some of their unified Métis Nation in Canada. more humorous times together, Experience! In addition, John Bonin, Man- and most important, spoke of his ager of Government and Aborigi- dedication and generosity to the nal Affairs with Union Gas, pre- Métis people, his strong historical This is the second year in a row sented $10,000 to support Métis impact on the Nation as its found- I have been invited to play youth. ing president, and his ongoing music for the Métis citizens of battle to ensure that Métis rights Ontario. It is with great pleas- Tony Belcourt Gala are recognized and respected. ure that I send my gratitude to Many also commended his ability the Health Branch for allowing Saturday evening was all about to seemingly be in more than one this to happen again. Special recognizing and honouring the place at any given time--even if it thanks to Natalie Lloyd and Lisa many, many contributions of meant risking a speeding ticket. Pigeau for their direct involve- MNO’s former and founding Dr. Belcourt received a num- ment. president, Dr. Tony Belcourt. ber of honours following the This year was particularly Tony was accompanied by his speeches, including the special as my time was focused partner Danielle Choquette who announcement of the establish- on entertaining for the Sena- is a member of the Canadian ment of the Dr. Tony Belcourt tors’ Meet & Greet. Everyone Association of Conference Inter- Endowment Fund for Métis in the we met during our time that preters (CACI). Over 350 people Arts. The endowment, chosen by weekend was extraordinarily attended the sold out dinner at Tony, was created in partnership kind and welcoming; truly the the Best Western Nor’Wester. The with the Ontario College of Arts enjoyment was all ours. cozy atmosphere was accented & Design University (OCADU), To everyone, a heartfelt by a slideshow of old photos of which committed to matching thank-you! Past-President Belcourt and his the amount of $20,000. Dr. Bel- MNO family. During their meal, court plans to oversee fundrais- God Bless attendees were treated to a per- ing to aid the growth of the fund. Armond and formance by the Métis Fiddler In a very emotional presenta- Linda Desjardins Quartet and entertained after- tion, Senator Earl Scofield, on and Dexter wards with the toe tapping music behalf of Métis veterans, hon- above: Brian Tucker, MNO Manager of Lands, Resources and Con- of Roger and Aline Giroux. oured Tony with a rare white sultations during a presentation on caribou migration. The evening continued as sev- left: Senator Gordon Calder. right: Senator Elmer Ross. eral of Dr. Belcourt’s former col- continued page 18 18 MÉTIS VOYAGEUR Annual General Assembly

clockwise from top left: Métis Rights Lawyer Jean Teillet; Past MNO President Tony Belcourt receives eagle feather from Senator Earl Scofield; Métis Nation of Alberta President Audrey Poitras, MNO President Gary Lipinski and MNO Chair France Picotte sign Memorandum of Understanding; MNO Secretary-Treasurer Tim Pile, MNO Chair France Picotte and MNO Director of Finance Judie McKenney.

from page 17 name-sake, the much loved, late, identity. More information about bunch of youth together in one ensuring that youth council Suzanne Rochon-Burnett. the Ispayin Project can be found room who were already engaged issues and concerns are brought eagle feather that recognized his The youth agenda was full on the back page and at in a discussion about identity – to the PCMNO and MNO execu- leadership. Métis Nation of with over 30 young Métis in atten- www.metisyouthexpressions.ca. and it went really well.” tives on a regular basis. Alberta President, Audrey Poitras, dance. Activities included the “It is great to see so many Youth representatives from “I was impressed and happy to surprised the former MNO Presi- Métis Boot Camp Workshop led inspired and ambitious youth at several regions met and dis- see as many youth at this AGA as dent with a framed reproduction by Bonny Cann and the Ispayin these events,” said youth cussed ways in which youth there are this year,” said Region 2 of his family’s genealogy. Dr. Bel- Project Workshop in partnership attendee Benny Michaud, who across the province can commu- Youth Representative, Janine court was born in the historic with the Métis Centre at the co-facilitated the Ispayin Work- nicate with one another (i.e. tele- Landry. “At the first AGA I Métis community of Lac Ste. National Aboriginal Health shop with Ginny Gonneau. conferencing); the need for a attended, I was the only youth. In Anne, Alberta, and served as Vice- Organization (NAHO). Both “When I heard they were holding more comprehensive gover- following years the attendance President of the Métis Association focused on encouraging youth to the Métis Boot Camp, I thought it nance structure within the youth has grown and will hopefully con- of Alberta in 1969. Former discover and embrace their Métis would be a great way to get a council; a better method for tinue to grow as more youth Ontario Regional Chief, Charles Fox, and his wife Meladina, hon- oured Dr. Belcourt with the pres- entation of a First Nations’ name: Makwa Kah Nii Gah Niich, which very suitably translates to “the bear that leads”.

Volunteer of the Year

The 2010 Suzanne Rochon- Burnett Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to a very deserving PCMNO Region 7 Councillor, Pauline Saulnier. Pauline, who is a member of MNO’s Development Corpora- tion and Finance and Audit Com- mittee, has co-facilitated Duty to Consult meetings across the province. She was nominated for the award because of her hard work and support of the MNO. Pauline was very moved by the recognition as she accepted the award in front of her fellow citi- zens. Past winners of the award include Deputy Chief Captain of the Hunt, Louise Goulding; Sud- bury Métis Council President, Richard Sarrazin; PCMNO Sena- tor, Reta Gordon and the award’s FALL 2010 19 Annual General Assembly

PHOTO: Ralph Brown clockwise from top left: Bannock-making workshop; sash-weaving workshop; Ontario Attorney General, Chris Bentley; MNO President, Gary Lipinski; Thunder Bay- Atikokan MPP, Bill Mauro and Thunder Bay Superior North MPP, Michael Gravelle; Senators arrive at the AGA; Volunteer of the Year, Pauline Saulnier; Métis fiddler Roger Giroux and friend. become interested and involved.” reports and resolutions. A report the proclamation of 2010 as the Amanda Strong, Chris McLeod, by the MNO’s Finance Depart- “Year of the Métis”. Ginny Gonneau, and Jeremy ment showed that the organiza- Furthermore, a resolution Brown who participated in past tion is more financially stable regarding the MNO Registry was Métis canoe expeditions were than in previous years. This great passed: “that the MNO initiate a also in attendance and made a achievement can be credited to province-wide, multi-phased con- presentation on their individual improved financial management sultation process on Métis identi- hardships, lessons learned and and new, more rigorous financial fication and registration issues in the strong camaraderie devel- policies and procedures. order to develop consensus- oped during their voyage. Youth based solutions to move the were also treated to a presenta- AGA Resolutions MNO forward, based on its State- tion by Angelica Laurin, one of ment of Prime Purpose and ulti- NAHO’s 2010 National Aboriginal Resolutions passed during the mate goals of advancing Métis Youth Role Models (see page 30). business meeting, included the rights and self-government in Bonny Cann and Dr. Chris Paci MNO’s decision to oppose the Ontario.” Further information facilitated a discussion surround- Government of Canada's plan to regarding the consultations will ing the possibility of a future eliminate the mandatory long- be forthcoming. Métis Youth Role Model award. form census. This resolution was A “Historic Sites” committee Youth sat in on the two days of John Bonin, Manager of Government and Aboriginal Affairs, especially significant to Métis presented a draft proposal that consultation meetings as well as Union Gas presents MNO President Lipinski with $10,000 to sup- people as the long-form census included research into the identi- the Saturday morning business port Métis Youth. has been used to give our Nation fication of possible Métis historic meeting under the tent. the opportunity to offer input sites in Ontario, including a take part in the ever-popular evening’s pig roast was, in a when dealing with government memorial at Queen’s Park. This History Come Alive Voyageur Games which consisted word, “fabulous”! Region 4 Coun- and industry. Liberal MP for research will eventually translate of traditional Métis activities such cillor, Art Bennett, who brought Toronto-Centre, Bob Rae, spoke into showcasing and preserving Within FWHP, it felt much like as hatchet throwing, rifling, and his roaster all the way from Sault about the importance of the our unique Métis stories, reiterat- history itself had come alive. The slingshot competitions. Ste. Marie, actually started roast- mandatory long-form census and ing President Lipinski’s comment park staff was dressed in tradi- Other activities throughout ing the pig on Saturday evening how it has helped to ensure that that “our story needs to be told tional Métis regalia and portrayed the park included a sash weaving because it was too big to be there is “full recognition of a more often.” voyageurs and young Métis workshop held by Ruth Ques- stored in a refrigerator. Citizens Métis Nation in Ontario and in Overall, the AGA was a smash- women with the utmost authen- nelle and a nature walk led by savoured a hearty meal at FWHP Canada!” More information about ing success among Métis citizens ticity. Attendees were also able to Joseph Paquette. As well, visitors while enjoying outdoor enter- the MNO's support for the long- and members of the general pub- enjoy and participate in cultural were welcome to browse the tainment. “The Dream Catcher” form census can be found on our lic who attended. It received gen- activities throughout the MNO tradeshow where they cover band got the audience’s website. erous coverage on several Thun- grounds--such as smoking deli- could purchase handmade jew- toes tapping with a great mixture A resolution was also passed der Bay radio stations, a local tele- cious fish; mixing and baking ellery, MNO merchandise and of classic rock and country hits. on a proposed “Métis Act”. vision station, as well as making their own homemade bannock; fine art. Representatives from “Scott van Teeffelen and the Through such legislation the the front page of Thunder Bay’s and creating intricate beadwork, Service Canada, Lakehead and Backroads Band” kept the crowd Government of Ontario would most-read daily newspaper, where much like their ancestors had Laurentian universities, and sev- moving past dark with their recognize the MNO’s unique gov- a headline described the assembly done. Citizens were also enthusi- eral MNO branches were avail- unique country-pop melodies. ernance structure at local, as a “Métis homecoming”. astic to learn the traditional Métis able to provide interested visitors Citizens then stuck around FWHP regional and provincial levels. It dance form of jigging, participate with information and literature for a cozy campfire to say was appropriate for this resolu- Visit www.metisnation.org to in a mock casino facilitated and on their services. “farewell” to the 17th AGA. tion to be passed at this year’s browse the AGA Photo Gallery run by the Health Branch using Sponsored by the Thunder The AGA concluded the fol- assembly as the Métis received and find more information “Métis money” as currency, and Bay Community Council, Sunday lowing morning with financial recognition as a people through about the MNO’s 17th AGA. 20 MÉTIS VOYAGEUR Annual General Assembly A feeling of a family and festive spirit

he feeling I had when I came within Canada and within the tion sets the standard for all the away from the Annual Gen- Province of Ontario has finally Senators to follow. eral Assembly (AGA) was Senators’ Spotlight been recognized and we now Our leaders, building on the T that, like gramma’s favourite enjoy an unprecedented and strong foundation that was laid recipe, we have to write down all BY RETA GORDON envied position, but we must not by those who preceded them, the ingredients in our cookbook PCMNO SENATOR let our guard down. We must be have raised our Nation to a solid so we can refer to it over and over ever-vigilant that our place within position within Ontario. The again. But like any old family Canadian society is neither Métis people of Ontario were not recipe it is not so much the ingre- “Our leaders, building on the strong eroded nor diminished. As one of acknowledged or recognized 17 dients, it’s the pinch of this and foundation that was laid by those who Canada’s three Aboriginal peo- years ago. We now stand tall and the dash of that, and if you don’t preceded them, have raised our Nation ples we must strive to maintain proud, unafraid to hold our have enough of one thing you to a solid position within Ontario.” and build upon our Constitu- heads high and claim, “We are add a handful of another. tional Rights. Métis”, and “We are proud of our Comparing our AGA to a As always, I was so pleased to heritage and our contributions recipe may be an over-simplifica- of our AGA I could go on forever. some pretty traumatic times. see many of our Senators from within Canada”. tion, but one thing is for sure; the Their efforts are gratefully Their foresight and downright across the Ontario Homeland Thank you again to all those feeling of a family reunion and acknowledged; without their tal- stubbornness have brought us to and was comforted to know that who answered the call to serve, the festive spirit, coupled with ent, dedication, and spirit, it where we are today. Some of those who could not be there in and all those who worked so hard the importance of the affairs of would have been just a meeting those leaders who have stepped body were definitely there in to make it happen. Thank you to our Nation make for an important of the Nation. forward in the past are still active spirit. I welcome our new Sena- all our citizens and families who and historic event amongst our Individuals amongst us have in the affairs of the Métis people. tors and reflect on those beloved make our collective communities people. gone well beyond the norm in Thankfully, over the years, new Senators who have passed on. so very strong. There are so many to thank for promoting, nourishing, fostering leaders have stepped forward to Their efforts will not be forgotten Now let’s bottle it. It’s one their contribution to the success and guiding our Nation through take up the torch. Our place and their guidance and dedica- heck of a recipe!

AGA 2010 | RELEFECTIONS ON MÉTIS COMMUNITY AGA 2010 | RELEFECTIONS ON COMMUNITY Incredible Event, A Blast Invaluable Experience from Sharing some of the thoughts and recollections from times past with you in this issue of the Métis Voyageur the past by Don McDonald Ontario Community who were to learn’. There’s a lot you can by Danielle Deneau Long Term Care Coordinator unable to attend. It is a privilege learn at AGAs.” Despite many Community Wellness Coordinator DRYDEN to share some of their thoughts health-related changes and chal- WINDSOR and recollections from times past lenges, including vision loss, s the 17th Annual General with you in this issue of the Métis Denny is an excellent example of he excitement rose as the Assembly (AGA) of the Voyageur. someone with a positive outlook sight of the ‘Thunder Bay’ Métis Nation of Ontario Bertha Masacar said, “The as he offered “best wishes for a sign came into view. It was quickly approached many AGAs are just wonderful! Those successful AGA.” the beginning of a beauti- Aof those preparing to are the times we all felt close and A visit with Albertine Roussin Tful and educational jour- attend finalized their plans. Antic- proud to be Métis. Yes, proud to was heart warming as she spoke ney: AGA 2010. ipation was high, as it repre- be Métis.” She continued, “When of some of her fondest memories Fort William was not just an sented a unique point in time to people find out what’s going on, of past AGAs. “It’s a time of cele- attraction, but rich with history personally share in a meaningful wherever it was held, they would bration--a time of looking back at and elegance. Walking into the event that involved Métis citizens learn something about the Métis. where we came from and looking fort to the sound of cannons individually and as a community. Even if it just was that we have a ahead to where we’re going.” going off while the canoes came People of all ages and from vari- good sense of humour. And we When asked what she would say in, one couldn’t help but wonder ous places would mingle with do!” When asked if I could men- to young people about the what it was like to live during that A fiddler at Historic Old Fort one another to strengthen the tion her age she replied, “You importance of the AGA and other time. I was brought back to real- William in Thunder Bay. bonds of unity, purpose and kin- can if you know it. I don’t cultural aspects of the Métis com- ity by the procession that ship. Although a significant remember things like that at my munity she said, “Young people included the President of the Métis Nation of Ontario, most of moment in time it had taken age.” So I am pleased to inform need to get more involved. They MNO, elders, veterans, senators, my education and understanding decades to achieve this event and you that she is 90 years young are going to be the ones telling PCMNO, and council members. came from the meetings and dis- its many features. Additionally, it with a remarkable joie de vivre. the young ones in the future With fiddle music, bag pipes and cussions. I learned about what is had taken the time and energy of even authentic dress, history was happening within the MNO, the those past and present to ensure now reality. directions and ideas for the an outstanding presentation and “You just can’t beat that feeling of I met a youth who was gener- future, new projects, and even representation of the Métis everyone being together. Family, ous enough to take time to show the legal positions, just to name a Nation of Ontario. and explain finger weaving to few. Most important though, was At this time it would be good friends, and people you’ve known for me. I was taught the difference the familial tie. I realized the to reflect on the past efforts of years sharing something unique. between machine-woven and fin- MNO is like one big family and those who, for many years, gen- Enjoying the fact that we are Métis.” ger-woven--traditional to Métis although we all have our own erated interest, attended, and culture--and the technique of opinions, we all have the same participated at the AGA. With the how to do it. The youth, only just want in the end. I listened to the passage of time some have “You just can’t beat that feel- what I’m telling them today.” learning finger weaving himself, passion of the veterans and the passed away and others, due to ing of everyone being together. This incredible 93 year-old’s soft was on his third sash and had wisdom of the elders and I left circumstances, are unable to Family, friends, and people spoken and quite mannered view already mastered one technique, wondering: “How can I continue attend. Everyone is to be com- you’ve known for years sharing of life, especially Métis life, was and was well on his way to mas- to extend the voice of the MNO mended for respectfully recalling something unique. Enjoying the invaluable to understanding the tering another. and continue to teach the cul- the role in the community of fact that we are Métis.” was how Métis’ ongoing development of On cultural day, not only was ture?” On my long, but beautiful those who have passed away. 68 year-old, Dennis (Denny) Pol- an absolute identity and accom- there an educational casino sim- drive back to Windsor, along the Moreover, everyone is to be lard described his memories of plished self-governance. ulation, a bingo, hatchet throw- valleys and winding roads, pass- applauded for taking time to “get-togethers.” Although he was Admittedly, many were visited ing, painting, and even an auc- ing by beautiful lakes, with the reminisce with those unable to never able to attend an AGA, due and more was said during these tion, but I had the pleasure of morning fog hanging low, to the attend or who had a limited to circumstances, as he stated, visits but the comments shared being a part of the slingshot and ‘Moose on the loose’ signs, I share in the overall event. Each “You know…it’s a special time, in this article speak volumes for air-rifle station. Although I didn’t came up with my answer. of us can benefit from what they an important time.” When asked the past, present and future of test my expertise this year, a lot I’ve learned that speaking share with us. what he would say to young peo- the Métis Nation of Ontario’s of my co-workers did and there with and teaching just one per- I had the opportunity to visit ple to encourage them to attend AGA. It also adds another posi- definitely were some bulls-eyes. son may not seem like a lot, but and listen to some of those from the AGA he said, “I would just tell tive note to celebrating the “Year Way to go gals! it’s enough to make a difference- the Northwest Métis Nation of them, ‘go to enjoy yourself and of the Métis Nation.” Being my first AGA with the -something we can all do. FALL 2010 21 Annual General Assembly

Métis youth in regalia at Historic Old Fort William in Thunder Bay.

Delegates canoe the Kaministiquia River to arrive at Historic Old Fort William in Thunder Bay for the 17th Annual General Assembly of the Métis Nation of Ontario.

Katelyn Stenlund takes part in a beading workshop.

Members of the 2005 Métis Canoe Expedi- tion: Amanda Strong, Ginny Gonneau, Chris McLeod and Jeremy Brown. 22 MÉTIS VOYAGEUR SASKATCHEWAN | 125TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE BATTLE OF BATOCHE

The Métis Fiddler Quartet perform at Back to Batoche celebrations in Saskatchewan. Back to Batoche by Guylaine Morin-Cleroux Batoche this past July. It was the anthems. Presidential speeches French and Michif. I can’t even a very moving ceremony. MNOET Administrative Assistant most incredible event I have ever and opening remarks from gov- begin to describe the powerful Following the ceremony, I was OTTAWA been a part of. ernment dignitaries followed. feelings that rushed through my honoured to be able to speak to I flew out of Ottawa on Satur- The youth then made their body. I thought to myself, “WOW, various Métis families who told hose who have had the day, July 17th, to represent the way over to the Batoche National I’m actually standing on ground me wonderful stories and shared opportunity to visit Métis Nation of Ontario as a Historic Site to help set up chairs once stained with the blood of memories they had of their Saskatchewan know why “youth ambassador” in Back to for the Commemoration & Rec- Métis fighters.” deceased ancestor. The cere- it is called the “land of the Batoche’s opening ceremonies onciliation ceremony and the The reconciliation ceremony mony concluded with a song by living skies”. I have never on July 17th. I was so excited to unveiling of a Commemorative began with fiddling, a drum song Andrea Menard dedicated to the T seen anything like it, hav- be a part of this wonderful event. Gate to honour the fallen of and an RCMP bugler as spectators veterans while the youth went ing come from Ontario where I was greeted in Batoche on July Batoche. The gate had the watched, proudly wearing their around and handed out reconcil- there is an abundance of hills, val- 18, 2010, by Jenn Altenberg, the inscription: “In spirit we recon- Métis sashes and T-shirts. While iation medals to all those in atten- leys and trees. I felt as though I youth representative on the Back cile on this day of July 18, 2010, as the names of those who had dance. It was remarkable to see could touch the puffy white to Batoche planning committee. we honour those who lost their fallen in the battle were read the bullet holes in the church and clouds. The sky seemed to sur- She then introduced me to the lives in the 1885 North-West aloud, youth were given a hand- the rifle pits that were once part round the earth, wrapping its youth ambassadors from the Resistance. We, the Métis, died ful of small signs with names and of the fighting grounds of the blue arms around me. It was other provinces. We all gathered for our home and our land. We, information about the combat- 1885 Resistance. breathtaking! together: Métis Nation Presi- the soldiers, died for Canada. We ants. Family members stood to July 18th, was Ontario Day and I had the pleasure of attending dents, Veterans, Elders and Youth the First Nations, died for our acknowledge the service, dedica- I had the pleasure, along with “Back to Batoche 2010”, the from across the Homeland to Métis brothers and sisters. We are tion and sacrifices the soldiers Tim Pile, of hosting and introduc- 125th anniversary of the Battle of sing both the national and Métis now forever free,” in English, had made for our country. It was ing a wide range of Métis artists as well as keeping spectators informed of activities happening on-site. The Ontario pavilion, one of five provincial pavilions, was beautiful and very rich in Métis culture and history. Scott Carpen- ter had brought his extensive col- lection of Métis artefacts which were greatly appreciated by all who stopped by for a visit. For the next two days, I stayed in the pavilion alongside some of my coworkers and spoke with the many Métis people about the var- ious programs and services that the Métis Nation of Ontario has to offer. I enjoyed meeting my fel- low Métis from across Canada and sharing our unique stories and life experiences. I gained a stronger understanding of the Métis way of life and how it varies from province to province. This experience was life-alter- ing for me and given the chance, I would definitely participate again next year. I hope all of you will one day have the opportunity to join in the culturally enriching festivities at Back to Batoche. FALL 2010 23 Métis Health

COMMUNITY GARDEN In full bloom by Lianne Dumais workshop at the beginning of Long Term Care Coordinator March. The elder was talking TORONTO about traditional foods and how far we’ve come from our tradi- would like to take the time tional ways. Something she said to thank our Métis gar- really stuck with me. She strongly dener, Ralph Chernenko, believed that you can feel the for taking care of the com- love in our food but we’ve lost munity garden in the west that connection; everything is endI of Toronto. Community gar- processed and done quickly now. dens encourage an urban com- She explained that in the past, munity's food security, allowing families took the day to prepare a citizens to grow their own food meal together and you could feel and/or for others to donate what the love and hard work put into Gardener Ralph Chernenko they have grown. every meal. As the elder said, and views of the community Community gardens afford “you got that tingly feeling in garden he tends in west-end access to fresh produce and plants your tummy”; it was so good you Toronto. as well as providing satisfying didn’t want to waste one bite. work to those who participate. A Now there is a whole new garden bestows neighbourhood meaning to food. It is called “fast improvement and promotes a food”; we drive up to a window sense of community and connec- and pick up our meals within tion to the environment. The minutes. Our ancestors used to MNO’s Aboriginal Healthy Babies call it “fast food” as they had to Healthy Children (AHBHC) pro- chase the food so they could eat gram run by Sarah Parr con- that night. We need to go back to tributed seeds and tools to help our traditional ways and find our make this garden achievable. ancestors’ recipes to help us all age those around you to garden and an outlet for exercise. The down isolation and creating a Community gardens can be as remember where we came from! as it is never too late to learn! gardens also battle two forms of social community. diverse as community gardeners. It is all about balance, learning I strongly believe community alienation that plague modern The greatest wealth is health. Our gardener chose to grow veg- to encourage our families to be gardens improve the health of urban life by bringing urban gar- Therefore, enjoy every day for etables, herbs and flowers. active and connected. Be proud the gardener by providing an deners in touch with the source what it has to offer! I attended a SOADI frontline of what you’ve created; encour- increased supply of vegetables of their food, and by breaking

GREAT LAKES MÉTIS COUNCIL | COMMUNITY OUTREACH SAULT STE MARIE | ABORIGINAL DAY Two-weeks on the job Métis celebrate and my first Rendezvous in the Soo by David I.M. Clark by Heather Moss we heard the fruit was a big hit Community Wellness Coordinator Community Wellness Coordinator and much appreciated. Owen Sound SAULT STE. MARIE The powwow ran from noon until 9 PM with various dancers ust two weeks into the job, n Monday, June 21, participating in the event. Just I had the honour of attend- 2010, I had the pleasure to mention a few, there were jin- Jing the Great Lakes Métis Oof being involved as a gle dancers, Métis dancers, and Council’s 2010 Summer Ren- “community partner” at our traditional dancers and drum- dezvous at the beautiful Durham local Aboriginal Day celebration. mers. Conservation Authority Park on A powwow was held at Bellevue July 17th. The conservation park Park in Sault Ste. Marie. The is located on the Saugeen River in Métis Nation of Ontario’s Sault “THANKS TO the town of Durham, Grey Ste. Marie office partnered with MY WONDERFUL County. the Indian Friendship Centre COLLEAGUES As a new Community Wellness and other organizations to cele- I HAVE LEARNED Coordinator, the experience was, brate Aboriginal Day. It was a A LOT AND I thought, going to be a little great success. LOOK FORWARD overwhelming–just not knowing The Health Branch partici- TO FUTURE what to expect. I had, after two pated by having a display table EVENTS” weeks, met most members of to promote the Long Term Care council, and a few citizens, but program, Aboriginal Healthy had not met most of the citizens David Clark is the rookie Community Wellness Coordinator in Babies Program and the Com- Other community agency who live scattered across Grey Grey and Bruce counties. munity Wellness Program. Our booths and craft booths were and Bruce Counties. I really display table offered various set up. A food booth was there shouldn’t have worried; it was as types of information for all ages to sell Indian tacos and scone if I were attending a family “I really shouldn’t have worried; to read and enjoy. We also had a dogs to hungry customers. The reunion. Of course I was! it was as if I were attending a Problem Gambling Awareness City of Sault Ste. Marie had its I had prepared a “Gambling IQ game set up, where participants usual canteen open. Due to the Quiz” along with my table of family reunion.” spun the wheel then were asked hot weather there was a lot of brochures. The quiz attracted a question pertaining to gam- ice cream sold at the canteen. many people. Each was asked a little pride if the answer was gram ideas, and hand out a brief bling issues. If the question was Participants were invited to a question or two about gambling, wrong, especially if they were survey. Attending the BBQ lunch answered correctly there was a feast of moose meat, mashed and received a gift. I was chal- with someone who had answered and fish fry allowed me to meet prize. potatoes and various salads lenged a few times that the activ- correctly! I had questions for chil- more citizens. After 10 days on Together with a handful of with pies for dessert at the ity was promoting gambling as it dren and adults covering dice, the job, and meeting few people eager helpers we cut and filled Indian Friendship Centre. The was itself “gambling”. Ha ha I poker, lotteries, and coin tossing. in that time, the Rendezvous 350 small cups with mixed fruit evening was spent enjoying thought a chance to educate! Many were on probabil- seemed like “baptism by fire” but, to give out to individuals at the Aboriginal dance exhibitions But, I explained, a gift was given ity/chance, with choices of true- in hind-sight, was the best orien- powwow. It was very hot, with followed by a music jamboree. for both correct and incorrect false and multiple-choice. tation that wasn’t planned! Great temperatures reaching between Thanks to my wonderful col- answers and no one was risking This event also allowed me to people – great food – great event. 25 and 30 throughout the day. leagues I have learned a lot and anything of value. Okay, maybe a consult with people about pro- From different comments that look forward to future events. 24 MÉTIS VOYAGEUR Osteoporosis: SUDBURY: The Silent Thief by David I.M. Clark Did you know one in four lower bone mass, and women Community Wellness Coordinator women, and one in eight men, with Type 1 are 12-times more Owen Sound over the age of 50 has osteoporo- likely to report having a fracture. sis? Neither did I. The term “silent Clearly more research is needed Preparing hile making my rounds thief ” refers to the process of the for both First Nations and Métis as a new Community body slowly robbing the bones of related to both osteoporosis and for the WWellness Coordinator, strength (reducing their density), the diabetes connection. Given introducing and re-introducing often with no symptoms until a the recent Métis Nation of autumn myself to former colleagues in fracture occurs (source: Osteo- Ontario study about diabetes the health and social service sec- porosis Canada brochure “Are rates of MNO registrants (lower harvest tors, I had a chat with the area you at risk?”). than First Nations, higher that the manager for Osteoporosis There is some research related general population), future by Desneige Taylor Canada. I asked if there were any to the osteoporosis-diabetes link, research should consider Métis Community Wellness Coordinator studies of osteoporosis specifi- “ONE IN FOUR although little of it is specific to separately from First Nations, so Sudbury cally relating to Aboriginal peo- WOMEN, AND Aboriginal peoples. One pub- that we are able to develop Métis- ples; there were none that she ONE IN EIGHT lished study (2004) looked at specific strategies for health and ver the summer we was aware of. However, during MEN, OVER fracture risk among First Nations wellness education, awareness, were busy at the that discussion, Judy Porteous THE AGE OF people in Manitoba. “Diabetes is and prevention. Ooffice. We had a suc- did note that there was a connec- 50 HAS a significant risk factor for frac- Oh, by the way--if you are aged cessful year with the Youth tion between osteoporosis and OSTEOPOROSIS.” tures” evidenced by the study’s 19 to 50 you need at least 1000mg Program thanks to our youth diabetes. The obvious happened; finding that First Nations people of calcium and 400 IU (interna- employees and volunteer par- next I arranged a workshop on have “significantly higher fracture tional units) of Vitamin D (which ents and children who gave this health issue, complete with a density (BMD) test, which can be rates than the control subjects helps the body absorb calcium). the program a chance--a “bone friendly” lunch. done by your doctor. As well, she [general population]”. Particu- If you are over the age of 50, chance to embrace culture Judy’s informative presenta- covered healthy eating as it larly, there are higher fracture you’ll need at least 1500mg of cal- and activity and a chance to tion covered what osteoporosis relates to maintaining healthy rates for hip and spine; almost cium and 800 IU of Vitamin D. learn about the Métis culture. is, risk factors (major and minor), bones, drug treatments for osteo- double! One unpublished study (New guidelines with higher rates We enjoyed a successful who is affected, and causes. One porosis, and the importance of (undated) indicated that people are due out sometime in mid- Annual General Assembly test for risk is the bone mineral physical exercise. with Type 1 diabetes tend to have September – watch for them.) once again as the Métis Nation of Ontario embraced the culture as well as the poli- tics that are necessary to be MARK YOUR CALENDAR recognized as a people and as a Nation. As you know, this year the Métis AGA was held in Thunder Bay at Fort William Historic Park. Fort William is important to Cheer the Métis people because many Métis ancestors were On Friday, December voyageurs or Nor'Westers. 3rd, MNO staff and the In their pursuit of fur, the Georgian Bay Métis Nor'Westers established an ambitious transportation net- Council will be hosting work spanning the entire their annual Métis Cheer. country. Located on Lake Superior, Fort William became Each year we invite our part- the key midway transhipment ners, community members, point. clients, and local dignitaries to Some events that the Sud- drop in and join us in some bury office is planning to holiday cheer. There is always share with the community a great amount of food, tradi- will focus on proper nutri- tional items, sweet treats, and tion, diabetes, family violence our famous moose milk. The and some cultural fun as well. event is held at our offices Enjoy the outdoors, the crisp air, the hunting and fish- from 1:00-4:00 PM. ing. Enjoy the children as they await the first snow fall. Please come by and join us! CONTACT: For information contact: Tel: 705-671-9855 Tel: 705-526-6335 Healthy Babies/Children (ext. 225) 355 Cranston Crescent Long Term Care (ext. 228) Midland ON Community Wellness (ext. 229)

New LTC Staff in Kenora Kathleen Tardi has joined the Long Term Care Team. LTC is pleased to announce that our Kenora site now has its Long Term Care program up and running again. Kathleen is Métis herself and glad to be a part of our team. She comes with some excellent experi- ence and will be an asset to the community of Kenora and the MNO. Please welcome Kathleen to the MNO. She can reached at [email protected] or 1-807-467-2555. FALL 2010 25

KENORA MÉTIS COUNCIL TIMMINS MÉTIS COUNCIL | THANKS TO UNION GAS Métis Family Day at Moonbeam

by Richard Aubin AHBHC Coordinator TIMMINS

he Métis Nation of Ontario- T Timmins employees would like to thank Union Gas Ltd. for their generous donation in sup- port of a summer family event. Lynne Picotte the Supervisor of Child and Family Initiatives accepted a $500.00 donation fron Union Gas presented by Andreanne Aubin the Adminis- trative Assistant for Union Gas Distribution Operations - North- of the water slides was enjoyed ness on healthy lifestyle choices west. by everyone. in our great outdoors. Fifty-three participants ages 2 The older adults in the mean- Once again thank you on MINOJINGEWIN: to 93 went to the Twin Lakes time played various games and behalf of the staff and all partici- Campground in Moonbeam. A relaxed on the beautiful camp- pants in helping us make this Healthy eating great fun-filled day of wading in ground. This was an opportunity event a reality. the man-made lake and the use for the Métis staff to raise aware- cooking classes TORONTO | ABORIGINAL DAY by Marley Hodges explained the most basic to the Community Wellness Coordinator more skilled culinary aspects of Toronto Aboriginal orgs KENORA developing a meal from start to finish. Over two days of classes e live in a time where participants learned how to pre- partner for picnic convenience is a prior- pare the foods they love using Wity and nutrition tends healthier ingredients. to take a backseat. Chef Ryan Parisian discussed ways to by Lianne Dumais and a good turn out. It was great Parisian of Seven Generations make a nutritious meal both eco- Long Term Care Coordinator to see the seniors participate in a Institute is trying to change that nomically and efficiently, even for TORONTO day devoted to an outdoor social with “Minojingewin”, his cook- the fast food lovers. From proper gathering. One of the seniors ing and healthy eating classes. cooking time and temperature, 010 is the Year of the Métis. said: “I enjoyed the togetherness Having enjoyed success in other baking, boiling and poaching 2What better way to celebrate and the pleasant manner of the communities in north-western techniques, canning procedures, with our communities than by event planners,” and many oth- Ontario, Lauri-Ann Marshall of recipe revision and ingredient hosting an Aboriginal Day picnic ers commented about enjoying Northern Diabetes Network substitution, locally available in the park? On June 17, 2010, their outing. approached me with the idea of products, and an example of how the Toronto Long Term Care pro- Thanks to Amanda Lipinski presenting this program to to cook healthy traditional and gram in conjunction with SOADI (SOADI) who helped make this Kenora, via the Community Well- family favourite dishes, all atten- and the Native Canadian Centre picnic possible by ensuring we ness Program and Kenora Métis dees from amateur to expert of Toronto’s seniors program had a proper park permit and Health Services. were able to take home new organized such a picnic; there Amanda Lipinski, SOADI appropriate items for all the par- The Community Wellness knowledge to their family was an excellent turn out! ticipants. Amanda also did a Program’s prime goal is to pro- kitchens. While learning the We enjoyed a nutritional diabetic socks were provided to great job calling “Nutritional mote health, nutrition, and dia- practical tools and tips to assist in lunch that provided healthy ensure the participants knew the Bingo” food items. I would also betes prevention, so this seemed developing healthy meals, dia- choices. Lunch was followed by importance of taking care of like to thank Caroline Francis like a perfect fit for all parties. betes educator, Lauri-Ann Mar- BINGO, summer crosswords and one’s feet. The children who and Helen Parker for helping With enough space for 24 partic- shall, highlighted nutrition as a word searches. Practical prizes attended were kept busy with with food cost and ensuring ipants, advertising was done diabetic management and pre- such as diabetic meters, step blow-up balloons, tennis rackets, everyone made it there safely throughout the community. ventative tool to attendees. count meters and resource mate- and a ball and bat to play with. from their seniors’ program. Parisian and his team from Seven According to Parisian, this ses- rials, medical foot creams and We had a beautiful day in the sun Thank you for all your support. Generations arrived in Kenora sion of his workshop was the with an arsenal of tools to help most successful yet. The knowl- them attack “convenience cook- edge that the participants WINDSOR | SWEET SUMMERTIME SWEETNESS ing”. With a full set of convection received will stay with them for ovens, hotplates, casseroles the rest of their cooking years dishes, knives, cutting boards, and can be shared through Summer is gone, but bowls, pans, and other utensils healthy family meals. for each table, Minojingewin dessert is all year long Minojingewin Bannock Recipe: by Danielle Deneau dessert that my mom introduced and cut it in half horizontally, in INGREDIENTS: Community Wellness Coordinator me to and I would like to intro- order to have two layers. Put the 1 cup whole wheat flour 1 cup water WINDSOR duce it to you. If you’re anything smaller layer in the bottom of the 1 cup all purpose flour 1 egg white like me, you have a sweet tooth bowl. Put a layer of cool whip on 1 tsp baking powder Pinch of salt hhh summertime, it’s the that never goes away. So, fellow top of the angel food cake. Now 1½ tbsp olive oil Atime of the year when you sweet lovers who can’t seem to put a layer of the cooking cher- drive down the street with your get enough, fear no more! Treat ries on top of the cool whip. You DIRECTIONS: windows open and smell the your friends and family to a great should have angel food cake, BBQ and say “mmmm”. It’s the dessert. cool whip and cooking cherries. 1. Preheat oven to 400 F (200 C) time of the year when the kids Place the other layer of angel 2. In a large bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, salt. are playing outside and you can INGREDIENTS: food cake on top. Repeat the 3. In a separate bowl mix together egg white, oil and water. sit out with friends and family. process and place in the fridge 4. Make a well in middle of flour mixture; add wet ingredients. It’s the time of the year when • can of low fat/no fat cooking until its cool. 5. Slowly mix all wet ingredients together with all dry ingredients you hear the music of the ice cherries You can vary the amount of 6. Once all is mixed together, turn dough out onto a well floured cream truck coming around the • container of low fat/no fat cool whip and cherries according table, and knead dough for 3-5 min. neighbourhood. It’s the time of cool whip to taste. My suggestion is two 7. Place dough on a cookie sheet, and spread dough out to 1 the year to indulge in your • angel food cake cans of cooking cherries and one inch in thickness favourite eats. Are you hungry • a bowl container of cool whip. Any left- 8. Poke holes in dough with a fork yet? over cherries and cool whip 9. Bake for 30 minutes in a preheated oven, until bannock has Well, summer may be just a Directions: Take the angel make a nice snack another day. risen, and the top is golden brown sweet memory, but here’s a food cake out of the container Enjoy! 26 MÉTIS VOYAGEUR

CRIME VICTIMS | Métis Representation at the Commemoration Ceremony for Victims of Crime A Sombre, proud moment by TerryLynn Longpre greeted with the musical prelude, the cause. She is quoted as say- Community Wellness Coordinator “Amazing Grace,” provided by ing, “I wanted to be a victim that WELLAND Piper Constable Wayne Robinson made a difference.” Ms. Bellows of the Niagara Regional Police certainly has healed the wounded n Sunday, June 13, 2010, Service. Horse Guard Constable souls of others despite the ever- I was invited to repre- Kevin Michener and his horse lasting damage that she claims, Osent the Métis Nation of “Brock” from the Niagara “never goes away.” Ontario at the Commemoration Regional Police Services were on As the day ended, I pondered Ceremony for Victims of Crime hand for the tribute. The and mulled over how this Com- held at the Oakes Garden, Niag- Ohnia:Kara Native Drum and munity Wellness Coordinator ara Falls. This event was spon- Dance Group honoured all vic- could make a difference. It was sored by the Ministry of Attorney tims with song and drumming. then I decided to raise awareness General and hosted by Niagara The beating of the drums was the for those victims of crime by Victim Crisis Support Service and pulse of this ceremony as we reaching out to you, our the Victim/Witness Assistance bowed our heads in prayer. Could Voyageur readers! I implore you Program, Niagara. our victims hear our words? to join me and consider the fol- The sombre event attended by Guest speaker Sandie Bellows lowing facts regarding violence police, caregivers and victims, painfully recounted her abduc- against Aboriginal women in Members of the Ohnia:kara Native drum and Dance Group who adopted the theme “Every Victim tion, rape and near murder of 20 Canada, and to review the “Sis- honoured victims of crime with song and drumming at Oakes Matters.” Upon entering we were years ago to raise awareness of ters in Spirit” missing alerts. Garden, Niagara Falls.

MISSING ALERTS - EVERY VICTIM MATTERS

The very prospect of having a missing loved one is something we hope you and your family never have to experience. We can only imagine what a parent or grandparent must feel when they realize someone close to them is missing. We have heard that this process can be very isolating and emotionally overwhelming and we want you to know that Native Women's Association of Canada and our Sisters in Spirit initiatives are here for you. We work in the best interest of the woman or girl who has gone missing. To add your loved one to the Missing Alerts page, please contact the NWAC. By phone: 1-800-461-4043 By mail: Sisters In Spirit, Native Women's Association of Canada 1 Nicholas Street, 9th Floor, Ottawa, ON K1N 7B7

Amanda Sophia BARTLETT has been miss- Emily OSMOND (LAPLANTE) has been miss- ing since the summer of 1997 from Winnipeg, VIOLENCE ing since September 9, 2007, from Kawacatoose MB. Amanda was 17-years-old at the time of her AGAINST First Nation, SK. Emily was 78-years-old at the disappearance and lived in the Pas, MB before time of her disappearance. Her disappearance is moving to Winnipeg in 1996. She was last seen ABORIGINAL very unusual. Her vehicle and personal belongings, leaving a family member's home in Winnipeg. WOMEN including medication, were left at her residence. She promised to return but has not been seen IN CANADA Searches of the area have failed to locate any sign or heard from since. of Emily. Did you know that over the past 20 years approximately 500 Abo- Lisa Marie YOUNG has been missing since June Bea Kwaronihawi BARNES has been missing riginal women have gone missing 30th, 2002, from Nanaimo, BC. Lisa Marie was since January 5th, 2010, from the Chateauguay in communities across Canada? 21-years-old at the time of her disappearance. She area, QC. Bea was 17-years-old at the time of was last seen in a burgundy Jaguar in the Jingle Pot her disappearance and requires medication that Facts to Consider: area of Nanaimo. More than anything, the family she does not have with her. wants to keep Lisa in people's minds. They do not • The mortality rate of aboriginal want people to forget about Lisa Marie. women as a result of violence is three times the rate experi- enced by all other Canadian Maisy ODJICK has been missing since Septem- Claudette OSBORNE has been missing since women. Aboriginal women ber 6th, 2008, from Maniwaki, QC. Maisy was July 24th, 2008, from Winnipeg, MB. Claudette aged 25 - 44 are five times 16-years-old at the time of her disappearance and was 22-years-old at the time of her disappear- more likely to die from acts of is believed to be with her friend Shannon Alexan- ance. Family members and Winnipeg Police Serv- violence. (Health Canada, 2002) der who has also been missing since September ice have been searching for the young mother of 6th, 2008. Please visit the Find Maisy and Shannon four children who was last seen at the Lincoln • Eight in ten Aboriginal women website at www.findmaisyandshannon.com/ Motor Hotel at 1030 McPhilips Street around in Ontario reported having 2:00 A.M. Suffering from health issues, drug personally experienced vio- issues, and the loss of custody of her two-week lence. (Women’s Health Surveil- Marie KREISER (NÉE SAINT SAVEUR) has old baby, the family is extremely worried about lance Report 1999) been missing since the fall of 1987 from Westlock, her well-being. AB. Marie was 49-years-old at the time of her dis- • 42.5% of Aboriginal women appearance. Marie was born in Wabasca, AB to Danita BIGEAGLE has been missing since experienced partner violence Pierre Saint Saveur and Adelaide Crow. Pierre was February 11, 2007, from Regina, SK. Danita is (Physical, sexual, financial or of Métis descent and Adelaide was a member of the mother of two children. Danita's mother, emotional) compared to the Bigstone Cree Nation. As a girl Marie attended Dianne BigEagle, says Danita has been seen at 20.6% of non-Aboriginal St. Martin's Residential School located on the Big- least three times since her disappearance: in women. (Women’s Health Surveil- stone Cree Nation. Marie last resided in Slave Winnipeg at the Manwin Hotel; again in Win- lance report, 1999) Lake. Marie is the mother of Sharon, Arlene, nipeg at an establishment on Broadway Place; Lorna, Brian and Gail. and at the Coachman Hotel in Regina. • Rates of spousal homicide among Aboriginal women are Pamela Holopainen has been missing since Delores WHITEMAN has been missing since more than eight times higher December 14th, 2003, from Timmins, ON. 1987 from Edmonton, AB. Delores was 42- than for non-Aboriginal Pamela was 22-years-old at the time of her disap- years-old at the time of her disappearance. Her women. (Statistics Canada, 2001.) pearance. She was last seen leaving a party in the family members have not seen or heard from early hours of December 14th. Pamela's family her since the early 80s and her last known says she left accompanied by her common-law whereabouts was 1987 in Edmonton. Some spouse. Pamela has not been in contact with any family members recalled hearing rumours that of her family members or her two small children. Delores left for Vancouver, Toronto, or NWT. This is completely out of character, and police strongly suspect foul play in her disappearance.

Elizabeth DORIAN has been missing since Shannon ALEXANDER has been missing since November 13, 1999, from Pukatawagan, MB. September 6th, 2008, from Maniwaki, QC. Shan- Elizabeth Dorian was 49-years-old at the time of non was 17-years-old at the time of her disap- her disappearance. She was born on December pearance and is believed to be with her friend 15, 1954, in The Pas, MB. She has three chil- Maisy Odjick who has also been missing since Sep- dren: two daughters and one son. Elizabeth lived Sisters in Spirit Campaign, tember 6th, 2008. Please visit the Find Maisy and her life to the fullest, despite the challenges that www.sistersinspirit.ca Shannon website at were thrown her way. www.findmaisyandshannon.com FALL 2010 27

Our Stories

Two Wheels, One Year, Nine Countries by Linda Lord years at the University of Guelph, ship with it. I think that's where I an engaged citizen; I wanted to Unlike so many well inten- I befriended a number of developed an appreciation of learn as much as possible about tioned and earnest efforts to save lmost every Voyageur engaged citizens and community places--habitats--where more the world around me, and I the environment, Garrett and his contains at least one of activists. They show an honest, than just humans reside. I have a quickly discovered that because friends are not out to tell you “our stories”. We have open compassion for the individ- lot of vivid memories of misty there are a despairingly large what you can’t do. In fact, this is had quite a variety over uals around them, human and daybreaks, soft rainy days, cool number of problems all around all about what you can do. the years: the adventures otherwise, and I've found that breezes, warm-grass-smells, and us, there are an empoweringly “Through this tour we resolve of Métis pilot, Michelle relationships with such people the sounds of birds and insects-- large number of opportunities to to illustrate that sustainability is AGoodeve; building birch are mutually reinforcing. We sup- nothing you can't find at the edge do good things for the world, for accessible to everyone and that bark canoes, the seemingly end- port and encourage each other in of most any southern Ontario each other. people living in a variety of condi- less quest for our roots and so appreciation of the work we do. town or city, really. “It was probably that motiva- tions can make meaningful contri- many more. We are indeed a “I used the word “activists” “In my final year of high tion that led me to my peers at butions to planetary health. We diverse people. I am especially there because it's a good blanket school, I took a class with a name Guelph, and they provided more aim to weave a network along our pleased to bring you this story. term, but it's not a word I'm terri- that was something along the opportunities for growth.” route connecting what we call A few weeks ago I received an bly fond of. To me, activist seems lines of ‘Challenge and Change in This bicycle excursion is not ‘sustainability models’: those indi- email from MNO citizen Paul to imply that you're headed out, Society’. It was a collection of an isolated act of courage on viduals, families, communities, Gauthier of Waterdown ON. Paul into the ‘outside world,’ apart social, psychological, and anthro- behalf of the environment. Gar- and organizations that develop began by saying, “I'm the proud from your own concerns and pological studies. Near the end of rett has been involved with and demonstrate successful sus- father of Garrett Gauthier....” He considerations, and then acting the semester, we gave presenta- Greenpeace, and is one of the tainable and socially conscious liv- then told me why he was proud, in a way that's novel or unique in tions on a variety of issues, and I environmental activists who ing initiatives. The intent is to and he certainly has good reason. order to achieve something ben- remember being most struck by climb buildings, bridges, etc., to empower the public at large in Since then, I have been corre- eficial. This can be a fantastically the presentations given on indus- hang banners related to environ- transitioning to sustainable sponding with both Paul and his worthwhile thing, and sometimes trial-scale agriculture. I had never mental issues. He is one of the lifestyles, and to facilitate the son Garrett. Here’s the story. it's the best way to accomplish had any exposure to the notion of two young persons who hung the sharing of relevant resources and Garrett is an environmental something good, but I don't like an unsustainable food system, of banners on the Alexandra Bridge information. Ultimately, we scientist, who recently graduated the notion of an ‘outside world.’ I petroleum-derived pesticides or in Ottawa that read “Welcome intend to aid others in their jour- with distinction from Guelph try to simply live in the world, neys toward sustainability by pub- University. Along with four without the perception that my licizing what we learn so people friends, he left Guelph, Ontario, life is separate from the lives of across the continent can take on bicycle, and (As I write this he others (this might not be entirely WHAT MAKES A PERSON WANT strides towards forming a sustain- is probably somewhere in possible, but it's the goal!). I try TO HOP ON A BICYCLE AND able society.” Saskatchewan.) is currently bicy- to be consistent in my actions, I think Paul realized just how cling across Canada. After a short and act in a manner that pro- GO FOR A 16,000 KM SPIN? committed his son was when he stay in Victoria, B.C., the group motes well-being in the world “handed back a BMW I gave him will bicycle south through the around me--from seemingly mun- for transportation. He said: U.S., Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, dane things like communicating mined fertilizers, of animal President Obama” and “Climate ‘That's okay, Dad. I'm going to El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, honestly to seemingly exciting exploitation. That was the first I Leaders Don’t Buy Tar Sands”. walk or ride my bike or use pub- and Costa Rica. They will stay in things like biking for a year. had ever heard of genetic modifi- Last summer, Garrett, Justin lic transportation if I need to go Costa Rica at Durika, a nature “I suppose, though, that cation. Of course, now these Pape, and Kristi Mahy ran an anywhere.’” reserve and organic farming com- something must have drawn me issues are quite visible, but they organic farm, Elm Grove Farm, in I encourage you to visit munity. to the peers I mentioned. I was were completely off my radar Sutton, ON. They used only her- www.pedalacrosstheamericas.com. The purpose of the journey is already interested in environ- until I took that class. I had itage seeds imported from British It’s a great web site with pictures to raise awareness of sustainable mental and animal welfare issues already been thinking about Columbia, to ensure no genetically and blogs, and if you can, consider living practices across the Ameri- before going to Guelph. Some of health--healthy eating, a healthy modified seeds were sown. They making a tax deductible donation cas. the greatest credit probably lifestyle--and had come to the did all their farming without using to help them on their way. “What makes a person want to belongs to my parents, who took conclusion that the health of an any machinery, and sold the pro- Donations can be made hop on a bicycle and go for a me on hikes along trails in Hamil- individual is entirely dependent duce to very satisfied customers. securely online using a credit card 16,000 km spin?” I wondered. ton and Burlington ever since I on the health of that individual's Paul says that Garrett firmly or PayPal. As Garret says, “They Garrett responded. was very young. During high habitat (not terribly insightful, believes that living sustainably is are used to keep us fed (we're “It's difficult to pin down a par- school I lived at a dead-end road but I was just figuring it out at the urgently necessary, and he follows fuelled by donations rather than ticular, singular experience that next to a meadow and forest, and time). My interest in healthy eat- that up by doing so in his daily by gasoline) and any surplus incited my concern for sustain- I still consider that to be one of ing, then, was thrown full-force life--organic gardening, using money that's fundraised will be ability. I don't think one exists! A the world's most beautiful places- against this new information public transit systems, bicycling, donated to the sustainability great deal of it has to do with my -not because it necessarily is, but about our food system. I think recycling, and buying only envi- models we're working with and friends and peers; during my five because I developed a relation- that's when I started to become ronmentally friendly necessities. documenting.” 28 MÉTIS VOYAGEUR Métis Arts

during this event was 100% Cana- dian. If a presenter talked about wine, our guests were not only given a sample to try but also told about the history of the grape, the region where it’s grown and the people who run the company. The same went with other spirits, foods and regions. I listened as Chef Jamie Kennedy told media about the local family who brings him fresh trout (some of which they were about to eat) and how they use sustainable practices. Ultimately, the important fac- tor to consider when we hear about the costs of the G8/20 is that a significant amount (if not all) of the money that was spent Artist represents Muskoka on this event was spent in various regions of Canada, on various Canadian products, for the pro- and Métis community at G20 motion of Canada. And our visi- tors were extremely impressed. They were genuinely interested by Nathalie Bertin and beaded artworks, the art of in Canada, in the beauty of our the “Flower Beadwork People” landscapes, our culture and in n June, 2010, Muskoka would have become totally lost Because our Métis ancestors never the art history of the Métis. And Tourism and the Huntsville - were it not for traditional knowl- signed their embroidery and beading, lucky for me, they seemed gen- Lake of Bays Chamber of edge handed down from genera- the art of the “Flower Beadwork People” uinely interested in my art. ICommerce approached the tion to generation. My own per- would have been lost were it not for There is no way I could have various arts organizations in sonal side-mission as a Métis bought the kind of exposure I Muskoka and Parry Sound to artist is to honour this art form traditional knowledge handed down was lucky enough to get through name artists to represent and I am always happy to discuss from generation to generation. my volunteer participation at the Muskoka at the G20’s Media Cen- Métis art history with anyone! G20, regardless of any outcome. I tre. Out of sixteen artists who Interestingly, as I spoke with jour- am very fortunate to have been a were nominated, I was one of the nalists from across the globe, Canadian standards, it was small-- the video that was being shown part of it. I am extremely proud to final eight selected to participate they would relate stories back to a water feature really–but it was on the big screen! And they would have been able to show my art, at the Northern Ontario pavilion me of the traditional craft work never meant to reproduce stay--for a long time--captivated! It represent my part of Canada and of the Experience Canada event. their mothers used to make and Canada or Muskoka. The North- was a very successful marketing the Métis heritage to the world. The excitement of being selected how sad it was that the practice ern Ontario pavilion and the rest tool. Watching the effect of the PS: I’d like to send a special for such an important event was was no longer as highly regarded of the event were created to “fake lake” on our visitors, I real- thank you to Susan Greenaway, incredible! I knew there would be today. The more we spoke about impress visitors from other coun- ized just how much we take our Mary Rashleigh and the more than 2500 media there from Métis art, other cross-cultural tries. From my vantage point, forests, lakes, resources and Huntsville Art Society for putting around the world but other than topics would also come up, such working on my painting and lifestyle for granted in Canada and on the show Eight Back from the that, I didn’t know what to as ethics in hunting, environmen- meeting people from that very how important it is to preserve Lake at the Art Space gallery in expect. After all, the only news tal conservation and the preser- cedar dock, I felt myself strangely them. (As a Métis citizen, I am Huntsville. The show featured all that seemed to be circulating in vation of storytelling, not only immersed in the Muskoka feeling. glad to know that we have the eight G20 Media Centre artists public was about the “fake lake”. proving the power of art but the So many people from around the MNO’s Lands, Resources and together for the first time and When the day finally came for my cultural relevance of Métis art! world who didn’t know what Consultations Branch working to included photos, video and mem- “shift”, I ended up having a truly As for the “fake lake”, I wish Muskoka was (or who had never protect our interests!) orabilia of the event. The show unforgettable experience! the general public had been able come to Canada) were in awe of As for other areas in the G20 opened on July 23 and ran until My volunteer job as “Artist to see it so they could understand the fantastic imagery that was Media Centre, there were chefs August 29, finally giving the gen- Ambassador” was to display, what went on inside the G20 being displayed on this massive creating tasting menus, sam- eral public a chance to see who demonstrate and discuss my art Media Centre. It’s one of the rea- screen as they sat in total comfort plings of wines and spirits, and an and how they were represented with the media and government sons why I chose to share my in a Muskoka chair with the smell impressive digital technology dis- during the G20. representatives from around the experience here. It really is a of cedar surrounding them. They play that spoke to Canada’s capa- world. I was filmed and pho- shame the “fake lake” was blown would not only hold meetings bilities in broadcast and within Nathalie is an artist who works tographed, was interviewed and out of proportion to become the and interviews on the dock, they the film industry. I was thrilled to out of Torrance and Newmar- had conversations with journal- centre of attention at an other- would literally rearrange the four- discover that every single item I ket, ON. For more information: ists from Canada, India, Spain, wise significant event. Yes, by our chair groupings to face and watch was witnessing being promoted www.nathaliebertin.com the US and Russia. Since art is a common thread among all peo- ple and all cultures, this wasn’t just a great opportunity to show my art to the world, it was also a great opportunity to tell people about the distinct Métis art form. A good portion of my art includes my interpretation of tra- ditional flower patterns like the ones Métis women embroider or bead onto clothing, shoes and other textile or animal skin items. I like to include my own signature flower designs on my art to add special significance to the subject matter, or sometimes simply for embellishment, just as the Métis women of the past would embel- lish clothing. Animals are also common central figures in my art. I often deal with subjects such as hunting with links back to the fur trade. My art is an expression of the combination of my French and Algonquin heritage. It is nei- ther European in style, nor First Nations in style, but rather a mix of the two. Like being Métis! Because our Métis ancestors never signed their embroidered FALL 2010 29

BOOK REVIEW | MÉTIS HISTORY Family, culture & Métis identity by Chris Paci a response to the “Quiet Revolu- tionships with the Cree and Dene Manager, MNOET tion” in Quebec, the FLQ and women and the fur trader men OTTAWA “October Crisis”; it was some- from whom they were times an attempt to be distinct. descended. The Métis, like their his is the first book by While there are complex personal Indian and fur trader relations, Brenda Macdougall, written reasons why Métis choose one lived in a social world based on as part of her doctoral the- spelling over the other, in north- reciprocal sharing, respectful sis and completed while western Saskatchewan most behaviour between family mem- Tshe was teaching and serv- Métis choose to write it without bers, and an understanding of the ing as acting Chair of Native Stud- the accent. In this review I use differences between themselves ies, University of Saskatchewan. both to speak specifically about and outsiders.” Historians of the One of the Family: Métis Culture Métis in Ontario and Métis in past often treated Métis as mar- in Nineteenth-Century North- north-western Saskatchewan, ginal in their contributions to the western Saskatchewan is a fasci- both of whom are part of the development of Canada. Métis nating read. In it, Macdougall larger Métis Nation. Métis/Metis began to surface in scholarship, (12) offers instructive method- are like other Indigenous peoples in particular fur trade history, ological considerations for histor- in other parts of the world; they social history and women’s his- ical research, “not to quantify the share much in common and have tory in the late 1970s, but it is demographic characteristics of cultural differences, one nation only within the last decade that this community, to reveal or ana- but with a lot of diversity. As Mac- governments in Canada have lyze such things as birth rates, dougall notes (30), “how a peo- redressed racist’s policies of marital ages, or mortality. Instead, ple names themselves and inserts assimilation and acculturation the methodology used here their narrative into a landscape that contributed to the erasure of draws from the qualitative reveals a great deal about their Métis. Early Métis scholarship methodologies….What can the self-conceptions.” focused on the fur trade, Red genealogical reconstruction of Dr. Macdougall is now at the River (present day Winnipeg), the “ ...the region was transformed family structures tell us about University of Ottawa where she establishment of a government in larger historical issues of Métis has taken up the first Research Manitoba in 1869-1870, and the into a Métis homeland not only by virtue identity across western Canada Chair in Métis Studies. The resistance in Batoche in 1885. of the children’s occupations of the territory, and the northern plains, and research chair is unlike any other There was, until now, relatively what can it tell us about the intel- in Canada, funded to a sustain- little scholarly attention paid to but also through their relationships with lectual process that went into the able level by the Government of contemporary Métis in other the Cree and Dene women and the fur trader men establishment of a new society?” Ontario and the University of parts of Canada. This work represents a deep Ottawa. It is a significant policy In One of the Family Mac- from whom they were descended...” understanding of Métis social and political shift from the dark dougall uses the Cree concept of relations and speaks to econom- days when the government wahkootowin to present her ics and geography, as well as envi- issued a bounty on the head of extensive genealogical research understanding the philosophical the coast, bound for Europe. This ronmental relationships that Louis Riel. The idea of the chair of the Métis from the English or religious meaning behind a is the interzone between the shape culture over time. came out of discussions between River district, Île à la Crosse, a people’s action or behaviours.” northern Cree and Dene, where I use both spellings for “Métis” the Métis Nation of Ontario and land the people call Sakitawak. Since the late 1700s, the beauty the Métis took on characteristics in talking about the book. The then leader of the opposition, Macdougall (7) did not take the and uniqueness of the boreal for- of both mixed with their rich tra- accent is used in Ontario and it Dalton McGuinty. concept from the historical est region mixed with the rich ditions of Scottish, French, and denotes a respect for Aboriginal Relationships between people record. “While outsiders knew cultural heritage along the rivers English forefathers. and French origins that many and places are core features of Aboriginal languages, they and lakes west of the Nelson and If the book has some weak- Métis families in Ontario and else- Métis protogenesis, genealogy learned those languages only to south of Lake Athabasca. The ness it is that we are left as read- where celebrate. When I was and resiliency over time. Mac- advance their own agen- height of land between two major ers, to wonder what became of growing up in St. Boniface, Mani- dougall notes: “the region was das–expansion of the fur trade or basins: the Hudson’s Bay and the many men and women, fami- toba, the accent was sometimes transformed into a Métis home- conversion to Christianity. These Athabasca linked the fur brigades lies, who left the English River dropped and the link to the land not only by virtue of the chil- outsiders were not necessarily before the 1900s. European District. We know that there were French community down played. dren’s occupations of the terri- interested in the cultural dynam- goods were shipped inland by relationships with people who This was a condition of the times, tory, but also through their rela- ics of the community itself or in canoe and furs were exported to came in from other parts of west- ern Canada, Ontario and Quebec, that men and women came in from the Northwest Territories and from northern Alberta and British Columbia. We can only speculate about the changes to Métis culture these different peo- ples brought with them, that they took the imprint of this place with them on their travels and across the nation, and how the social landscape changed over time. Moreover, we are left with- out a clear idea of how Métis cul- ture in Sakitawak, in the larger nation across Canada and the United States, will change in the future. After all, history teaches us where we come from. What then will be the basis for renewal in the future? Will it be based on new relations with the land and if so will these resemble traditions of the past or some dreamed future? This is the challenge Mac- dougall and all scholars leave for future research.

This review was originally pub- lished May, 2010, by Indigenous Peoples Issues and Resources, Bäuu Institute. 30 MÉTIS VOYAGEUR Métis Student Success

ANGELICA LAURIN ANDREA PAQUETTE GEORGETTE MACDONALD Sturgeon Cambrian Falls youth College wins honours National Governor Aboriginal General Role Model Award award Winners

n June 19, 2010, Angel- several medals. She volunteers uring Cambrian Col- maintained a 4.0 grade point ica Laurin, a Métis from at the Verner Skating Club as a Niagara lege’s 42nd convocation average while successfully bal- OSturgeon Falls Ontario, program assistant helping Dceremonies held May ancing her role as a parent, stu- attended the National Aborigi- young people learn to skate. Métis 26, 27, and 28, 2010, three grad- dent leader, and college volun- nal Role Model Awards Cere- uates were honoured for their teer. She co-founded Cam- mony at the National Arts Cen- National Aboriginal Role Council academic excellence and contri- brian’s accounting club; was an tre in Ottawa. She was one of 12 Model Program butions to the Cambrian com- active participant in Cambrian’s role models to receive the Youth Rep munity. recruitment activities; assisted National Aboriginal Role Model The National Aboriginal Role The President’s Gold and Sil- with first-year orientation and award. Angelica received a crys- Model Program celebrates the graduates ver Medals are awarded annually the accounting program’s tal award with her name on it as accomplishments of First to two graduating students who annual tax clinic. well as a bronze “grandmother Nations, Inuit and Métis youth with have combined academic excel- A citizen of the Métis Nation, moon” necklace that is awarded aged 13 to 30. “Lead Your Way” lence and technical ability with a MacDonald is a well-known to all role models. inspires Aboriginal youth to Honours significant contribution to col- advocate for Métis and Aborigi- To win this award Angelica strive to reach their goals. Each lege life through social and ath- nal culture, particularly through was nominated by one of her year 12 Aboriginal Role Models letic interests. The gold medal is her role as Vice-president and peers, Danika Landry, who felt are nominated by their peers for ndrea Paquette, Youth Rep accompanied by a scholarship her former role as Secretary- all of Angelica’s accomplish- their achievements, leadership for the Niagara Region valued at $2,000 and the silver Treasurer for the Cambrian ments should not go unnoticed. and innovation. Throughout the AMétis Council, recently medal by a scholarship valued at Native Students’ Association. Angelica won because of how year, role models visit First graduated from A.N. Myer Sec- $1,500. The silver medal winner was she leads her life in a healthy, Nations, Inuit, and Métis com- ondary School in Niagara Falls. The gold medal winner was Marc Siren, a graduate of the positive way. At 15, she is bilin- munities to share their stories She is an Ontario Scholar who Georgette MacDonald, a gradu- Physical Fitness Management gual, a swimmer, a singer for with other Aboriginal youth. graduated with her Secondary ate of the Business Administra- program. The Governor Gen- charity events, a writer working The National Aboriginal Role School French Diploma. Andrea tion-Accounting program who eral’s Academic Medal was pre- on a romantic thriller novel, and Model Program, administered was on the Principal's Honour has been a positive influence on sented to Shawn Chrétien who is an honour student. Angelica by the National Aboriginal Roll and is the recipient of the her peers, her program, and the graduated from the Instrumen- also has been a figure skater Health Organization, is funded A.N. Myer Staff Award. Andrea is college. tation Engineering Technician – since the age of four, attending by Health Canada. now studying Honours History at Throughout her six semes- Industrial program with an over- many competitions and winning Brock University. ters at Cambrian, MacDonald all average of 96 percent.

DAVID SHUTTLEWORTH STACEY RIVET DAVID SUTHERLAND David Shuttleworth is a youth from the Windsor region. He attended St. Clair College last year and the year before. He has successfully A youth, a college completed the two year Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician program and is currently looking for employment in the Windsor area. Last summer David worked in the Windsor, Essex, Kent grad and proud Métis Métis Council office and did a wonderful job. by Stacey Rivet by David Shuttleworth rowing up Métis was probably one of the most ver since I was in elemen- Gconfusing things as a tary school I’ve known that child. All the other children in my E I wanted to go into a trade. class would talk about their Euro- At the time I was conflicted over pean background and I felt sin- whether I wanted to go into the gled out because it seemed like automotive or electrical field. no one else shared my unique MNO Citizen During high school, my career heritage. It wasn't until my post- choice became clear. I would secondary education that I was called to either be an auto mechanic or able to truly find the answers and an electrician; I would be a heat- be proud of who I am. grow as a person. the Bar of ing and cooling technician. In I was funded by the Métis I attended the 2010 MNO AGA Ontario my mind this field incorporated brought to my attention that the Nation of Ontario for the Social in Thunder Bay where I lived the the best of both my previous Métis Nation of Ontario had a Service Worker Program offered life of a voyageur for several oshua David Sutherland was choices--mechanics and electric- training initiatives program. If I at Canadore College in North days, the opportunity of a life- called to the Bar of Ontario at ity. was approved the program Bay. Not only was I fortunate time. I am proud of my heritage Ja ceremony held in Toronto As my high school career was would cover the cost of my enough to receive funding, but I and want to be able to show on June 15. Originally from Nip- coming to an end, I realized that schooling. After I sent in all of was also able to do my student other Métis youth that being igon, Joshua is of Ojibway my financial situation was not the required forms I received a work placement with the MNO Métis is something we should descent and a citizen of the adequate to cover my college positive response. The MNO was office in North Bay. I was fortu- carry with pride. Working with Métis Nation of Ontario. expenses. At this point, I began excellent, and covered my nate to work as a summer stu- the MNO, I got those answers While studying law in to consider what my options tuition, books, and supplies and dent with the MNO office in Sud- and I hope that other youth will Toronto, Sutherland founded were. I could have taken time even gave me a travel allowance. bury. The easy-going but produc- see this as well. I am a college The Diversity Pipeline Initiative off school and worked towards On top of that, last year they tive environment of the MNO graduate, I am a youth and I am – Aboriginal Outreach Project, improving my financial situation, were able to secure a summer offices helped me thrive and proud to be Métis. which took him on a solo but since I had already been job for me when I was having cycling journey of 1,900 kilome- accepted into the program, I trouble finding one for myself. tres from Vancouver to Saska- decided this was not the best For all of this I am extremely course. As I write this, I don’t licensed Heating Technician toon. Throughout his trip, he course of action. I also wanted grateful to the MNO. quite have my diploma in hand browsing the job market for stopped to talk about the bene- to stay in school because a year So here I am two years after as the graduation ceremony employment. Hopefully it won't fits of post-secondary education long absence from it can cause having applied to St. Clair Col- takes place in a couple of weeks, be too hard since everyone with First Nations’ children liv- you to forget quite a bit. Decid- lege and been accepted into but I know that I passed with wants to feel warm in the winter ing on reserves. ing to stay in school, I was ready their Heating, Refrigeration and marks that made both my family and cool in the summer. He is actively pursuing a to apply to OSAP when it was Air Conditioning Technician and me proud. I am now a career in criminal law. FALL 2010 31 Métis Education

OCAD University and the Métis Nation of Ontario establish endowment to support Métis students

MNO BURSARY PROGRAM | Dr. Tony Belcourt Endowment Fund for Métis in the Arts Rooted in culture

he Métis Nation of Ontario acknowledgement of Dr. Bel- possible. It’s truly an honour to T(MNO), in partnership with court’s invaluable role within the me personally but it is going to be the Ontario College of Art & Nation and his continued leader- a tremendous benefit to Métis Design (OCAD) is thrilled to ship. people who want to consider art announce the establishment of “OCAD University is strongly as a career.” the Dr. Tony Belcourt Endow- committed to building an Aborig- Belcourt’s three children are ment Fund for Métis in the Arts. inal Visual Culture Program”, said all involved in arts careers and “It is an honour to be in part- Dr. Sara Diamond, President of were part of the reason that nership with such a successful OCAD University. “We’re hon- OCADU was chosen for the bur- and acclaimed university. oured that the Métis Nation of sary. “President Lipinski brought Because of the introduction of Ontario has chosen to support the idea to my attention several this fund, Métis students will have OCADU students of Métis months ago and after considering greater opportunities for future descent in recognition of their other institutions, my kids all careers in the arts,” said MNO founder. The Dr. Tony Belcourt left to right: Tony Belcourt, MNO Secretart-Treasurer Tim Pile said, ‘it’s gotta be at OCADU, President Gary Lipinski. “It is Endowment Fund for Métis in the and MNO President Gary Lipinski. dad.’” important that we encourage our Arts will provide support for a Belcourt hopes that the intro- youth to grow and learn and to Métis student to undertake will be open to Métis students scholarship, especially for further duction of the endowment fund support them in all their endeav- research and creation that is residing in Ontario who are pur- studies on Métis history and will create a greater profile of ours.” rooted in their culture. The suing arts and design related Métis art in history. Métis art at OCADU. Details The award will be established Endowment Fund is a welcome careers through OCADU’s supe- “The MNO’s contribution has about the Dr. Tony Belcourt in recognition of the Métis Nation addition to our existing student rior programs. Belcourt would been the building block to help Endowment Fund for Métis in the of Ontario’s founding president, funding, and aligns with like to see the endowment fund this fund grow. My hope is to give Arts, including when bursaries Tony Belcourt’s more than 40 OCADU’s deep commitment to not only have enough revenue to back by holding fundraising will become available and how years of service to the Nation and Aboriginal culture and diversity.” support bursaries for Métis artists events,” said Belcourt. “I’m very students can apply will be forth- Métis people. It will serve as Once established, the bursary but also enough to support a grateful to MNO for making this coming.

EDUCATION | NORTHERN ONTARIO MEDICAL SCHOOL Métis at medical school

Council of the Métis Nation of MNO citizens among students at Ontario (PCMNO) and Ian Peltier, Northern Ontario School of Medicine the Acting Director of Aboriginal Affairs for NOSM. “We are very wo Métis Nation of NOSM graduates high-quality proud to be associated with Ontario citizens and physicians with an appreciation NOSM,” said Pile, “and are very T one Métis Nation of for the unique health-care needs pleased that some of our citizens Alberta citizen are among 64 of northern Ontario. Eight per are students in the program.” The new medical students at the cent of NOSM students are self- support of Wendy Landry, the Northern Ontario School of identified as “Aboriginal”. Like President of the Thunder Bay Medicine (NOSM). The stu- students in all medical schools, Métis Council and her council in dents are MNO citizens Catherine these students have been organizing the dinner was greatly Maguire and Amanda Bates and selected from a very competitive appreciated. MNA citizen Jordan Ducharme. field, and are extremely academi- On the day following the din- NOSM’s mandate is to deliver cally able as reflected by a mean ner, the students embarked on a innovative education and grade point average (GPA) of 3.66 week-long bus excursion to Sud- research for a healthier north. on a four point scale. left to right: Robert Graham, Bill Gordon, Amanda Bates, Cam bury with stops in Geraldton, Students are taught using state- Prior to the start of classes, the Burgess, Catherine Maguire, Wendy Landry, Bob McKay, Tim Constance Lake, Hearst, of-the-art smart classrooms and NOSM students participated in a Pile, Ian Peltier, Dr. David Marsh and Jordan Ducharme. Kapuskasing, and Timmins. Stu- learning technologies, integrated unique orientation week. They dents participated in meals and collaborative approaches to edu- traveled to several northern part of orientation, the students the Thunder Bay Métis Council activities, and experienced a cation, and distributed commu- Ontario communities, partici- enjoyed a dinner on Monday, and the NOSM’s Aboriginal Refer- warm welcome from physicians, nity-based placements across pated in working sessions, and August 23, in Louis Riel Hall at the ence Group. MCs for the event community leaders, and digni- northern Ontario. Each of these became acquainted with their Thunder Bay Métis Council Cen- were Tim Pile, the Secretary- taries. elements helps to ensure that new lives as medical students. As tre. The meal was co-hosted by Treasurer of the Provisional 32 MÉTIS VOYAGEUR

AIDER MÉTISSE | WORKING WITH THE FRANCOPHONE COMMUNITY STUDENT BURSARIES Bursary Soyez tous que Program vous pouvez être

continues by Chris Paci Manager, Education & Training “AS A BILINGUAL MÉTIS, BORN IN SUDBURY to grow OTTAWA AND RAISED IN THE FRENCH RIVER AREA, he MNO declaration on ÉRIC WAS ABLE TO COMPLETE THREE education, in the State- PROGRAMS AT COLLÈGE BORÉAL.” by Bonny Cann governments to fund post-sec- Tment of Prime Purpose, Provinicial Education Coordinator ondary education. speaks to the encouragement of TORONTO Another momentous bursary all Métis to reach their full poten- One such story comes to us from Boréal: Social Work, Commerce announced at the AGA was the tial. The day to day work of the Éric Dupuis. and Business Administration, and ith a new school year Dr Tony Belcourt Endowment Education and Training Branch is Éric attended this year’s Marketing. He was able to con- W starting our thoughts in Fund for Métis in the Arts at the to assist and support Métis in Annual General Assembly in tinue his education because of the Education and Training Ontario College of Art & Design Ontario to be all they can be. The Thunder Bay. He stood at the the training support and assis- Branch turn to how we can best University. This bursary is being branch also works with colleges Collège Boréal information table tance of the MNO. “Honestly, had support Métis post-secondary set up as an endowment and and universities, government and at the trade show. The reason he it not been for these programs I education. like existing funds elsewhere, it industry partners, to create train- was standing there is that Éric would have not been able to con- The Métis Nation of Ontario will continue to be in existence ing opportunities that will lead to now works at the college. The tinue and specialize in marketing, understands the stress that for future generations. meaningful employment. college signed a MOU with us last which in the end helped me to comes with new and returning If you are unsure if there is a In the past few years we have year and since then has worked get the position I hold now.” Dur- studies. New students are leav- bursary at your school, please been focussing some of our cre- with the Ministry of Training Col- ing the past five years of postsec- ing home--often for the first feel free to contact the financial ativity and attention on working leges and Universities to secure ondary education, Éric received time. How will they manage? aid office and the Aboriginal with the Francophone commu- funding and open the “Centre de bursaries from the MNO, which How will on-going training get Student Services office within nity and the host of fine schools ressources de la Nation Métisse”. he tells us, “helped me enor- paid for? A number of years ago, your institution. We also recom- in Ontario who offer postsec- Éric is the centre’s first Coordon- mously, and I am very grateful, the MNO asked our communi- mend you google “Aboriginal ondary programs in French. Uni- nateur des projets autochtones and without the support I ties: “What are the priorities for student bursaries, awards and versité du Sudbury is the latest et métis. “It was a pleasure received from the MNO, I would you, your family and your com- scholarships” as literally hun- school where we are now work- attending the AGA this year,” says not be where I stand today. Hon- munity?” The MNO heard that a dreds will come up. Maclean’s ing to finalize a “Memorandum of Éric. “I was honoured to be part estly, I am proud to be part of the focus on support for education Magazine usually comes out Understanding” (MOU) and of it. I was also glad to have got- branch success stories!” was a priority. This was espe- with a special edition in August establish the Métis bursary that is ten the chance to meet a lot of We invite all Métis interested cially true because Métis people of each year dedicated to post- available at over 32 institutions key people, such as France in either their first or second have not had federal funding secondary students and lists across Ontario. Picotte, Gary Lipinski and Tony career training options, to come like other Aboriginal peoples. bursaries, awards and scholar- Every once in a while a Métis Belcourt. The Fort (Fort William speak with one of the staff in the The Provisional Council of the ships. (On-line visit Maclean’s person, whom the branch has Historical Park) was absolutely regional offices across Ontario. Métis Nation of Ontario heard On Campus SCHOLARSHIP assisted, comes along whose beautiful, and being there was You can also contact us by email that and set out to help make FINDER.) Be sure to check the story inspires this important like living our history in Ontario.” or phone us. Information is avail- financial assistance possible and MNO website under Education work. These stories are so good! As a bilingual Métis, born in able at: www.metisnation.org. Métis bursaries were estab- and Training for a list of more. We want to invite you to share Sudbury and raised in the French It is up to you to take that first lished across the province. While you are there, it is not too your stories with us, and we will River area, Éric was able to com- step toward finding your dream The Métis bursary program early to go through the website share your stories with all Métis. plete three programs at Collège job, but we are there to help. continues to grow. We are work- for information about Summer ing with corporate partners as Career Placements and connect well as government to continue with the Education and Training to establish new bursaries and Coordinator at your local office. to grow existing bursaries so The Summer Career Placement that more funding can be made program is about providing our available to Métis students. The students with an opportunity to MNO is committed to continu- work in the field for which they ing the growth of these pro- are studying to ensure it is the grams. At the 2010 Annual Gen- right career choice and also to eral Assembly, we announced provide an opportunity to gain significant contributions to valuable work experience to establish bursaries in the elec- add to the resume. trical sector, thanks to Ontario If you require assistance or Power Authority, Power Workers are unsure if you qualify, please Union, and Hydro, who each contact Bonny Cann, Provincial contributed $25,000. We con- Education Coordinator at bon- tinue to seek partnerships with [email protected] or at 1- corporations, businesses and 888-466-6684 ext 102.

QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY | INDIGENOUS PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION AND POLICY Unique aboriginal studies program graduates first students in Kingston

special ceremony featuring located on the Tyendinaga The program involves a series A traditional native drummers Mohawk Territory. of courses that are unique in was held at Queen’s University to “This is a historic day. On Canada and integrate traditional honour the first four graduates of behalf of all members of the knowledge and philosophies in Canada’s only program for gradu- School of Policy Studies, I con- indigenous policy, governance, ate studies in indigenous public gratulate the graduating students and management. administration and policy. on their great achievement. I The development of policy Four students--Deborah Brant, thank the graduates’ families and leaders and senior administrators Francis Cadeau, Tracy Maracle their communities for the sup- is essential to the capacity build- and Russell Roundpoint–each port they provided to the gradu- ing and self-determination of received a Master of Public ates during the academic pro- First Nations, both for today and Administration (MPA) degree. gram, and wish the graduates for future generations. It is hoped The program started in 2007 and well in their ongoing careers,” that graduates of the program was developed by the Queen’s said School of Policy Studies will play key roles in Aboriginal left to right: Tracy Maracle, Deborah Brant, Russell Roundpoint School of Policy Studies and the Director, Peter Harrison, who organizations and community and Francis Cadeau are the first four graduates of the aboriginal First Nations Technical Institute, attended the event. developments. Master of Public Administration program. FALL 2010 33

MÉTIS EDUCATION | ENGAGING THE SCHOOL SYSTEM Teachable Métis moments by Chris McLeod continue to play shaping Canada to communicate about the resources aimed at both elemen- Education Analsyt, MNOET into what it is. Teachers will unique culture and heritage of tary and secondary institutions. THUNDER BAY receive tools and resources that the Métis people in Ontario. These resources and initiatives will allow them to deliver addi- The MNO plans on facilitating are designed to get youth more ven as students were tional lessons to their students to discussion between community involved in the Métis community heading back to school, help deepen the understanding members and school boards and to empower them in learning E the Métis Nation of of the Métis people. across Ontario in nine regional what it means to be Métis in Ontario, Education and Training In addition to these presenta- meetings. These discussions will Ontario. Through an online pres- (MNOET) Branch was also tions, the branch is distributing focus on highlighting the impor- ence as well as other forms of out- preparing for the new school year awareness kits to schools and we tance and need for Métis educa- reach MNOET hopes to reach out with several new initiatives aimed have developed kits for regional tion in Ontario classrooms. The to hundreds of Métis youth across at improving the quality of Métis community councils that can be “KEEP YOUR EYE branch aims to increase aware- the province and provide them education delivered at schools used in presentations and during ness of educational issues that with support and tools to assist across Ontario. lessons. Inside these kits are a OUT FOR STUDENT face Métis communities and the them at school and at home. This year, the branch will be variety of items that can be com- RESOURCES AIMED roles that school boards and the If you are interested in learn- visiting school boards, class- bined with a teaching package to AT BOTH Ministry of Education can play in ing more about these initiatives rooms, and communities to provide dozens of teachable promoting a safe and healthy or would like to be informed of deliver awareness presentations moments. This resource will be ELEMENTARY environment for students which discussions happening in your to all. These presentations high- an invaluable aid for school AND SECONDARY reflects the needs of Métis com- community contact Chris via light Métis culture and history in boards and communities who INSTITUTIONS.” munities. email at Ontario and the role the Métis have previously found it difficult Keep your eye out for student [email protected].

EDUCATION | MNO DEVELOPS NEW POSITION TO IMPROVE SERVICES DIRECTED AT K-12 EDUCATION Métis education and awareness by Jennifer St. Germain and Ministry staff, a comprehen- Director, Education and Training sive training plan for joint ses- OTTAWA sions that we anticipate hosting in the late fall-early winter with he Education and Training the Ministry of Education. He will T Branch is pleased to wel- work with Bonny Cann and Chris come its newest member. Chris Paci on a number of planned McLeod, previously Youth Coor- training sessions in partnership dinator with the City of Thunder with the Ministry for regional rep- Bay, is filling the newly created resentatives, community coun- position as Education Ana- cils, and trainers. lyst/Officer in the Thunder Bay As the new Education Offi- office. Chris is a proud Métis citi- cer/Analyst, Chris will facilitate zen and a certified teacher. meetings between senior school For close to ten years, Chris board administration staff and has been a facilitator and educa- Chris McLeod MNOET’s Education Analyst/Officer in the Thunder Bay office. trustees with our regional staff, tor, working with corporate, non- community council representa- profit and youth groups across training has led him to over 70 MNO developed the new posi- The core of the project will tives, and MNO. He may also get the country. His background is countries around the world tion to improve services directed include finalizing the Métis Edu- involved with the branch on self- recreation and athletic training, where he has helped to train and at K-12 education activities. Chris cation and Awareness Kits. The identification outreach. and he has trained and competed organize other expeditions. We will support branch operations to initial design of these school kits Join me in welcoming Chris in gymnastics at the national are excited to welcome Chris to regional community councils, was completed last year. Chris’ aboard. Please drop him a line at level. You may recall that Chris the MNO to further the develop- partnerships with school boards, job will be to ensure 200 are pro- [email protected] to say was on the 2005 Métis Canoe ment of education initiatives and regional Ministry of Educa- duced and distributed to regions hello and to advance education Expedition that travelled from reaching out to communities, tion staff, and he will oversee the and community councils. across the Métis Homeland in Thunder Bay to Batoche. His pas- schools, and boards across the implementation of the project Chris will develop, in collabo- Ontario. sion for travel and expedition province. which will run for one year. ration with senior management 34 MÉTIS VOYAGEUR The Spirit World

OBITUARY OBITUARY

SENATOR HELEN BRADLEY, 1934-2010 A founder of Georgian Bay Métis Council and respected leader within MNO passes

elen Bradley (nee Lepage) was the daughter of a com- H mercial fisherman on Georgian Bay where she still lived. Over the years Helen vol- unteered in many capacities: as a genealogist, assisting people who needed help with a transla- tion of documents from French or Michif; as a board member at the Enaahtig Healing Lodge and Learning Centre; as a Métis Elder at a local correctional facility; as a fundraiser par excellence and SENATOR GILBERT GERVAIS just about anywhere else that she could help. 1928-2010 Well known for her expertise in cooking and preparing wild meat, Helen was also a wonder- A founding citizen ful beader and keeper of the tant to the Honourable Michael sure she knew how much the craft. She quilted and of course Bryant, Minister of Aboriginal MNO valued her contributions and Senator of the understood that these circles Affairs. and dedication to our cause. held in the centre she started so “These individuals demon- “I cannot say enough about MNO passes many years ago, were not about strate citizenship in action,” said Senator Bradley. She was a the crafts but about the sharing the Honourable David C. Onley, founder of the Georgian Bay lthough his grandparents Gilbert’s community activi- of history, coming together as a Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, Métis Council, instrumental in settled in North Bay and ties included sitting on the people and feeling good about who presented the awards at the the council getting its charter Awere part of the Golden board of the Misiway Ininwuk companionship. ceremony. and a respected leader within the Lake (Algonquin) and Nippissing Health Centre, as well as on the On January 31st, 2008, Sena- “It was a memorable day I will MNO. She continued to be bands, Gilbert Gervais was born Timmins Métis Council as a Sen- tor Bradley and 12 other Ontari- never forget. Having my children involved in MNO committees and raised in Timmins. ator. ans were honoured with the (Larry and Linda) there wearing and meetings right up to her Senator Gervais first became A man of many talents and “Ontario Medal for Good Citizen- their sashes, made me really feel passing and if it had not been for active with the Métis movement diverse interests, Gil was also a ship” at a ceremony at Queen’s so proud to be their mother. I an unfortunate fall, she would in 1989 as a member of Quebec's poet. His book, Daily Prayer Park. Hosted by the Honourable will be wearing my medal with have attended this year’s AGA.” Native Alliance. Soon thereafter, Poems and Words of Wisdom David C. Onley, Lieutenant Gov- pride,” said Helen. Senator Helen Bradley OMC striving to be recognized as was published in 1982. His life- ernor of Ontario, and the Hon- And we will never forget her. was born in Penetanguishene on Métis, he joined the Ontario long passions included playing ourable Michael Chan, Ontario “Senator Bradley was well- September 25, 1934. She passed Métis and Aboriginal Association guitar, body building, bowling, Minister of Citizenship and known and well-loved through- away October 21, 2010. She was (OMAA). Then, in 1993, Gilbert and wood-carving. Immigration, the Good Citizen- out the Métis Nation,” said Presi- predeceased by her husband became one of the founding cit- Senator Gil Gervais passed ship Investiture ceremony took dent Gary Lipinski. “I am very Helmut Schmidt and survived by izens and a Senator of the MNO. away on October 23, 2010, at the place on the grand staircase of grateful that a few weeks ago I her sisters, brother, two children, Gil was also the Region 3 Captain age of 82. He was predeceased Queen's Park, Toronto. Simcoe had the chance to visit her in her three grandchildren and one of the Hunt for many years. His by his wife Jeannette, his brother North MPP,Garfield Dunlop, and home in Penetanguishene. I vis- great grandchild, as well as dedication to the Métis cause Don, his sister Doreen and by his wife Jane were also in atten- ited her at that time because I numerous nieces, nephews and was well-known and respected his son-in-law David Martin. He dance to congratulate Helen. In could not attend a later event cherished friends. throughout the Métis Nation, as is survived by his companion addition, she received a letter of honouring her contributions to A celebration of Senator was his passion for advancing Jeannine, his siblings Edmore, congratulations hand delivered the MNO and Georgian Bay Métis Bradley’s life will take place in Métis rights. Gilbert Gervais was Emery and Gail, his children by Emily Bullock, Special Assis- Council, but I wanted to make Penetanguishene. also a member of the Royal Glenn and Brenda, his grand- Canadian Legion. children Jamie, Jason and Jeffrey, After a period of self-educa- and his great grandchildren Jes- OBITUARY OBITUARY tion and working in mines and sica, Madison and Hunter. He is on railroads, Senator Gervais also survived by many nieces headed his own construction and nephews. Gary Daryl Robert Boston and trucking company for over Funeral services were held 30 years. Then he switched October 27th followed by inter- Kowalski n October 22, 2010, a heart October 27, 2010, followed by careers and received a diesel ment at the Timmins Memorial of gold stopped beating, interment at Hillside Cemetery. engineering certificate and Cemetery. Remembrance dona- ary Kowalski, the hus- Otwo shining eyes at rest. In lieu of flowers, a trust fund has worked another 19 years for the tions made to the Canadian Can- band of Denise Kowalski, God broke our hearts to prove, been set up for his children. Ministry of Natural Resources cer Society will be greatly appre- G a long-time Housing he only takes the best. Loving Daryl was the 41 year old where he supervised the con- ciated. Online donations and Branch staff member based in husband of Valerie (nee cousin of Tammy Webb (MNO struction of forest access roads condolences can be made at Thunder Bay, passed away in Houghton); hero to Tricia and Labour Market Manager) and the in northern Ontario. www.lessardstephens.com. the Hospice Unit of St. Trevor; son of Donald and Mary son of Mary Jane Boston who has Joseph’s Hospital in Thunder Jane Boston (nee Bouchard); been involved with the MNO since Bay on October 28th, 2010. son-in-law of Jim and Dorothy it was founded. Mary Jane was the OBITUARY Gary was born June 21st, 1953 White; brother of Tracey, Terry Region Four Councillor until she in Fort William. He was pre- (Jennifer) and Tim (Chico, took a position with Métis Nation deceased by his father Edward. Chavez); brother-in-law of of Ontario Training Initiatives as Todd Saulnier Gary is survived by his Robert Houghton; uncle and the Community Development mother, Jean; brother, Jim; and friend to Steven (Oscar), Bryan Officer (CDO) and held that posi- he Métis Nation of Ontario Joyce and Delphis Saulnier. Todd sisters Jo-Anne and Brenda. (G-Slice), Tasha, Starr (Moon- tion until she suffered a stroke in would like to extend con- will be deeply missed by his A funeral service for Gary beam), Justin, Jessica and Shan- 2000 and was unable to continue Tdolences to the family and many friends and family. took place November 1st at the non; a lifelong friend of Roger to work. Many in the Métis com- friends of Todd Saulnier. Interment was at St. Ann's Harbourview Funeral Centre in and Karen Theberge; Daryl was munity including MNO staff will Todd passed away suddenly at Cemetery, Penetanguishene. In Thunder Bay. We extend our surrounded by many loving and remember Mary Jane. his residence on October 18th, lieu of flowers, donations to the sympathy to Denise, as well as supportive aunts, uncles and “We all know that the power 2010, in his 48th year. He was the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Gary’s family and friends. cousins who will surely miss his of prayer is strong and our entire beloved husband of Region 7 Canadian Diabetes Association unique sense of humour and family would greatly appreciate it PCMNO Councillor, Pauline or the Métis Cultural Commis- care-free attitude. in our time of such sorrow,” said (Deroches) Saulnier, loving sion would be appreciated. A funeral service was held on Tammy Webb. father of Benjamin, Justin, and Our thoughts and prayers go Ashley, cherished grandfather of out to Pauline and her family at Expressions of sympathy may be offered: www.arthurfuneralhome.com Kaiden Pilon, and dear son of this most difficult time. FALL 2010 35

OBITUARY OBITUARY OBITUARY Temiskaming Métis Council Senator Earnie Lavallée passes

ollowing a brave battle with cancer, Earnie Elmer FLavallée passed away at Temiskaming Hospital in New Liskeard on August 3, 2010, at the age of 64 years with his lov- ing wife Christine by his side. He is predeceased by his Valerie Stewart: parents Moise and Antoinette [Ranger] Lavallée and siblings: Former Edward “Eddy” Lavallée, Marie Vanyperen and Armand Laval- PCMNO lée Sr. He is survived by his lov- ing wife Christine Keith-Laval- Councilor lée, and sadly missed by his It is with sadness that I children: Debora [Glenn] Gut- write to inform all that Senator and jahr of Beamsville, Loretta Earnie Lavallée passed away on Lavallée [fiancé Donald August 3rd. I had an opportu- SENATOR KAY LYNCH, 1923-2010 Stringer] of South Porcupine nity to speak with Senator Senator and Sandra Néron of Earlton. Lavallée while in the hospital, passes Earnie is fondly remembered even in his final days he Senator gave by grandchildren: Dustin Des- remained strong and commit- gagné, Kaylee Néron and Zoe ted to the MNO looking for- ormer Community Council Néron; sister Florence Watson ward to attending our AGA. He Senator and PCMNO Repre- freely to assist of Haileybury, Jeannette Laisi loved the land and harvesting Fsentative for Region 9, of Edmonton and many nieces and on a prior occasion had Valerie Stewart, passed away and help others and nephews. told me about one of his peacefully at home in Dunville, In keeping with Earnie's recent hunting trips where he ON on August 1, 2010, with her wishes, cremation followed harvested his moose. He will husband Bill at her side. Valerie e are sad to report that Kay was active in the Kenora the decease. Interment will be sadly missed in his local was 84 years of age. Senator Kay (Kathrine) Legion Ladies’ Auxiliary for many take place at the Cobalt community, by the Temiskam- Valerie was an active partici- W Lynch passed away on July years. She was also a member of Catholic Cemetery. Memorial ing Métis Council, the MNO pant in the early days of the 6th, 2010 at Lake of the Woods the Kenora Moose Lodge. In contributions in Earnie's mem- Senators, and through-out the MNO, proud of her ancestry and District Hospital with her family recent years Senator Kay worked ory may be made to Commu- MNO where he generously willing to share her valuable his- by her side. on behalf of Métis veterans just as nity Cancer Support. Arrange- gave so much of himself. Our torical knowledge. Valerie came Kay was born in Dunseith, she had supported the building ments entrusted to Buffam thoughts and prayers go out to to the MNO in 1994 as one of North Dakota, on August 2, 1923. of the Métis Nation of Ontario, Leveille Funeral Home. Con- his wife Christine, family and our earliest citizens. Valerie She was predeceased by her par- the Kenora Métis Council and the dolences, contributions and friends. served as a Senator for her local ents, Elizabeth Racine and Pierre community as a whole. She was a memorial candles may be left God Bless. Gary Lipinski, Community Council and, as the Dauphanais; six brothers, five sis- strong woman who gave freely to at www.buffamleveille.com. MNO President PCMNO Councillor for Region 9; ters; and, granddaughter Shelley assist and help so many others. her portfolio was Veterans and Berthelette. “I recently visited Kay in the Michif Language. Her contribu- Surviving are her sister Lor- hospital this past June 13th and OBITUARY tions were indispensable as MNO raine (John), her children Shirley even then her spirits were high grew. Valerie Stewart is fondly (Art-deceased), Brian (Melissa), and she was looking forward to Bruce Davidson remembered, and sadly missed. Judy (Ed), Leah (Glen), Charlotte getting out and attending MNO’s President Lipinski spoke with (Gary-deceased), and Linda AGA this August,” said President ruce Davidson, husband Our deepest sympathies go her husband Bill and passed (Mike), 13 grandchildren, 12 Lipinski. “She will be sadly of Marlene Davidson, the to Marlene and her family and along our sympathies and great grandchildren and two missed by many. Our thoughts BPresident of the Atikokan we ask you all to keep Marlene thanked him for all the contribu- great great grandchildren. Also and prayers go out to her family and Surrounding Area Métis in your prayers, to help give tions Valerie has made to the surviving are numerous nieces, and friends.” Council, passed away October her the strength to get MNO. nephews and cherished friends. ∞ 26th, 2010. through this difficult time.

HOUSING | FIRST NATION, INUIT, MÉTIS URBAN & RURAL (FIMUR) HOUSING PROGRAM OBITUARY OAHS announces $17.4 Million to provide Aboriginal housing

ntario Aboriginal Hous- 255 units which is 27.5% ahead of • Fort Frances Native Urban ing Services (OAHS) is About ONTARIO target for this component of the Wahkaihganun Corporation, Opleased to announce ABORIGINAL HOUSING FIMUR Housing Program. We are Fort Frances, 10 units $17.4 million in funding to deliver SERVICES excited to be able to assist Abo- $1,254,000 Jaye Peterson 199 units under the First Nation, riginal people find safe, afford- • Wequedong Lodge of Thunder Inuit, Métis Urban & Rural The OAHS Board is comprised able homes across the entire Bay, 110 units $3,000,000 Waas (FIMUR) Housing Rental Compo- of representatives appointed by housing continuum.” nent Program. the Métis Nation of Ontario, the The goal of the FIMUR Hous- Due to community need, the ur heartfelt sympathies “This affordable housing will Ontario Federation of Indian ing Program is to help address Proposal Review Committee rec- go out to Region 6 support off-reserve Aboriginal Friendship Centres, and the housing needs for Aboriginal ommended and the OAHS Board O Councillor, JoAnne families and strengthen commu- Ontario Native Women’s Asso- people in Ontario living off- of Directors also approved for Wass, whose 29-year-old nities,” said Rick Bartolucci, Min- ciation. “Providing safe afford- reserve, designed and delivered OAHS to assist in the develop- daughter-in-law, Jaye Peter- ister of Municipal Affairs and able housing is our mandate. based on community engage- ment of new housing units in the son Waas, was killed in a Housing. “By working together, Creating homes is our goal.” ment processes. following communities: head-on collision near Santa we are making a positive differ- Proponent submissions were Cruz, California on October ence in the lives of many Aborigi- For more information: evaluated by an independent Pro- • Dryden, 30 units $4,800,000 22nd. JoAnne’s 10-month-old nal people.” www.ontarioaboriginalhousing.ca posal Review Committee who • Sioux Lookout, 15 units grandson, Kyler, was also seri- “We are pleased to announce Tel: 1-866-391-1061 reported their recommendations $2,534,700 ously injured in the collision. that the FIMUR Rental Compo- Ontario Aboriginal Housing to the OAHS Board of Directors “I hope our collective nent Program is in a position to Services / FIMUR Assisted for final review and approval. The OAHS will also deliver 24 new prayers will help Kyler’s deliver at least 417 units which is Homeownership Program Board granted conditional units of housing at a cost of recovery and give JoAnne 16% ahead of target.” com- 500 Bay Street, Suite 200 approval for the following: $4,080,000 in under-serviced some of the strength she mented Don McBain, OAHS Sault Ste. Marie, ON areas of north-eastern Ontario. needs over the days and Executive Director. “Further, the P6A 1X5 • Hamilton-Wentworth Chapter OAHS is committed to delivering weeks ahead,” said MNO FIMUR Assisted Homeownership of Native Women Inc., 10 units and operating safe, affordable President, Gary Lipinski. Program is projected to deliver $1,700,000 housing for Aboriginal people. 36 MÉTIS VOYAGEUR

ISPAYIN (pronounced ISH-PY-IN) is a Manitoba Michif term that means ‘happening’. It was used as the title with the intent of articulating the focus of the project: “What’s happening” with Métis youth today. Province-wide Consultations on Registry

n 1993, the MNO was founded on the collective I will of Ontario Métis wanting to:

(1) support Métis individuals, families and com- munities culturally, socially and economically; by Ginny Gonneau, Benny Michaud and Rebekah Wilson (2) ensure Métis rights were recognized and respected by governments; and, Are you a proud Métis youth? intended for use in Métis communi- Not a youth but want to be (3) advance Métis self-determination and self- Have you ever had your identity ties, grade schools and secondary involved? Encourage a Métis youth government. questioned by people who lack an schools and within mainstream and to present (or co-present) this DVD understanding about Métis culture? Aboriginal organizations. and Discussion Guide in your com- These collective goals are set out in the MNO’s foun- Do you wish that more people had munity. Provide assistance and sup- dational document, The Statement of Prime Purpose. a better understanding of what it How youth can get involved! port. Order a package and post A fundamental part of the MNO’s strategy to means to be Métis? Would you like www.metisyouthexpressions.ca posters in your workplace or com- advance Métis rights and self-government in Ontario the opportunity to speak with other Go to the website above for links to munity to promote the project. Tell was the creation of a credible system for the identifi- Métis youth about how they express the DVD segments on YouTube. another organization about this cation of Métis citizens and rights-holders in Ontario- their Métis identity? Feel inspired? Deliver a workshop in DVD and Discussion Guide (e.g. -the MNO Registry. The MNO Registry has been piv- If you answered “yes” to any of your community! Not sure how? Go mainstream or Aboriginal organiza- otal to the MNO’s rights-based successes over the the above questions then you may to the web site and download the tions, schools, community centres, last 17 years. More important, the MNO’s credibility be interested in the ISPAYIN: Métis ready-made discussion guide that health centres, etc.) and integrity--as a democratic Métis government--is Youth Express Yourself! Project accompanies the DVD. You can Deliver your own workshop with grounded on its registry. recently launched by the Métis Cen- order them (free) and get book- a Métis youth in your workplace to Over the last 17 years, there have been many tre of the National Aboriginal Health marks, posters and prizes to pro- increase cultural competency and changes that have affected the MNO Registry (i.e., Organization (NAHO). Through mote your workshop and the proj- make services more accessible and limited funding for operations, directions from MNO workshops that facilitate dialogue ect from the Métis Centre at the culturally relevant to Métis people. Annual General Assemblies, the Powley case, etc.). among youth about what it means National Aboriginal Health Organi- There are also many current and upcoming issues to be Métis, the ISPAYIN project is zation – just contact: What makes this project unique? that are affecting or will affect the MNO Registry (i.e., cultivating a more articulated sense It’s unique because of its ability to the McIvor case/Bill C-3, ongoing Métis litigation, of identity among Métis youth and Jennifer Rankin engage Métis youth in discussions etc.). Unfortunately, since its creation, the MNO has helping non-Métis to better under- Tel: 613-237-9462 x500 about their identity in a contempo- never had the funding or opportunity to undertake stand Métis culture. Toll Free: 1-877-602-4445 x500 rary context. Approximately 34 per- comprehensive community consultations on the [email protected] cent of the Métis population is MNO Registry in order to discuss past, present and What is the ISPAYIN Métis Youth under the age of 25. This DVD and future issues. Express Yourself Project? Discussion Guide has the ability to The 2010 MNO Annual General Assembly identi- ISPAYIN is an exciting new project, bring Métis youth in our communi- fied consultations on Métis identity and registration led by the Métis Centre of the ties together to explore what it issues as a priority. In order to discuss these issues with National Aboriginal Health Organi- means to be Métis and increase all Métis citizens, a multi-year community consultation zation, to build awareness about youth’s sense of belonging, pride process is being implemented (subject to being able to Métis youth identity, health and and connection to their community. secure adequate funding from government). well-being in a contemporary con- The goal of these consultations is to develop con- text. The ISPAYIN project sought Who will benefit from the work- sensus-based solutions to address past, present and out artistic submissions and spon- shops? The DVD and Discussion future issues in relation to the MNO Registry. sored regional gatherings of Métis Guide can also be used with adults Phase One of this consultation process is set to youth across Canada in the summer and communities at large as a cul- begin this fall and continues into 2011. Community of 2009. Youth were recorded tural competency tool. It can be meetings will be scheduled for Atikokan, Fort Frances, singing, speaking, fiddling, jigging, used with organizations that want Dryden, Kenora, Thunder Bay, Terrace Bay, Gerald- rapping, and dancing at these to make their workplace or commu- ton, Sault Ste. Marie, Wawa, Chapleau, Thessalon, events. They were also encouraged nity services more accessible or cul- Sudbury, Timmins, Cochrane, Kirkland Lake, Mat- to submit videos or hard copies of left to right: Benny and Ginny turally relevant to Métis people. tawa, North Bay, Windsor, Niagara Falls, Hamilton, artwork, music, stand-up comedy, participated in the develop- Through the expressions of Métis Guelph, Brampton, Toronto, Owen Sound, Mactier, poetry or any other form of artistic ment of the ISPAYIN DVD and youth on the DVD and tailored dis- Midland, Oshawa, Peterborough, North Brook and expression. Discussion Guide and were cussion-based activities on breaking Ottawa. MNO citizens will have opportunities to pro- A DVD was built around these part of the first group to down stereotypes, social exclusion, vide their input through other opportunities, includ- expressions of Métis youth identity receive training to facilitate and health impacts, workshop par- ing, an on-line questionnaire. in a contemporary context, where the workshops. They recently ticipants build awareness of Métis Additional information about the consultations and images were paired with intergener- delivered a workshop at the culture and identity. the community meeting dates will be provided via ational narratives, representing a MNO AGA in Thunder Bay to direct mail-outs to MNO citizens and on MNO’s collective Métis past, present, and train the MNO’s regional I’m a youth. Why should I get website at www.metisnation.org. future. An accompanying Discussion Youth Coordinators and assis- involved? Be a leader in your com- We look forward to seeing you at these important Guide was also developed. tants on how to facilitate munity; promote pride in Métis community meetings as we continue to build a The result was the creation of an ISPAYIN workshops in their identity and engage more Métis stronger MNO and advance the Métis rights agenda interactive workshop resource communities. youth in your community! in Ontario!

As part of the ISPAYIN project, the Métis Centre Also, visit the ISPAYIN Blog at also developed a youth web site at http://www.ispayin.blogspot.com MOVING www.metisyouthexpressions.ca and join our Facebook group: Don’t miss an issue offering information about health, well-being and culture. ISPAYIN Métis Youth Express Yourself. Help us stay up to date .... For more information, contact your Ontario Métis Youth ISPAYIN Project Representatives: First Name: Benny Michaud and Ginny Gonneau at [email protected] Last Name: Address:

City, Province: Postal Code: Daytime Phone: