Exhibit Honours Aboriginal Women

APRIL 2011 VOLUME 14 - NUMBER 4

FREE Exhibit honours Aboriginal women

A photo of Amber Redman and painting of Daleen Bosse are part of the exhibit The Recog- nition of Place: Strength and Endurance of Aboriginal Women. (Photos by John Lagimodiere)

ANOTHER TERM Tammy Cook Searson has been re-elected Chief of the Lac La Ronge Indian Band. - Page 13

GOODQUESTIONS Youngreportersaredigginginto the issue of homelessness in Regina. - Page 14

ART FOR CASH ByDarla Read DeanWhitebearishelpingpaint For Eagle Feather News a few masterpieces for some worthy causes in Saskatoon. new travelling, pilot exhibit is highlighting the many - Page 15 contributions and achievements of First Nations and Métis women. It also honours the lives of two First Nations women who SEIZING OPPORTUNITY Awere murdered. PeggyVermettetoldanUrban After many years of dreams and planning, Sasipenita Aboriginal Strategy gathering officially opened last month. that opportunity is knocking. The idea for the exhibit, The Recognition of Place: -Page 23 Strength & Endurance of Aboriginal Women, came about when Monica Goulet was working on her Master of Business NAIG BID Administration in 2005. She was working on an exhibit about CourageBearishopingtosee Anne Frank, and says many people asked her why there the 2014 North American wasn’t an exhibit telling the stories of Aboriginal people. InidigenousGamesinRegina. Goulet says that’s exactly the intent of this exhibit by - Page 26 Sasipenita. “It is hoped that this pilot exhibit will spark a movement, Welcome to our a collective heartbeat that will inspire and instil a sense of Arts & Entertainment Issue pride and profound respect forAboriginal women,” explains Coming In May: Goulet. Sports & Youth Issue She says the exhibit features female leaders. CPMA #40027204 • Continued on Page 2 2 Eagle Feather News APRIL 2011 Exhibit raises awareness about violence

educator Alvina Poitras; Prince Albert community leader almost like her memory’salive in that picture.Whether it’s Bernice Sayese, posthumously; Elder and student mentor ateachertheyseeheras,whetherit’sasamother,orwhether Bette Spence; health care leaderWendy Swenson, posthu- it’s as a First Nations woman, it doesn’t matter to me, as mously; and Shannon Loutitt, honour distance runner. long as they see that she was our daughter, the mother of Five artists did the work: Leah Dorion, Louise Halfe, Faith, the sister of her brothers.” Roger Jerome, Mary Longman and LindaYoung. Bosse’sdaughter,Faith,wasabletoattendtheopening. ThewordSasipenitameans“nevergiveup”inSwampy “She just realises her mother’s not here anymore but Cree,amessagethatfitswellwithatributetothelateAmber she has to go, on her mother’s memory,” says Muskego, Redman and Daleen Bosse, both of whom were missing noting Faith has the love and support of both sides of her before found murdered. family and is pursuing lessons in ballet, baton and music. Pauline Muskego is touched her daughter’s story is “Iguessyoucansayshe’scarryingonthelegacyofher included in the exhibit and says it’s an honour to see their mom’s life.” daughter’s life can still impact people even though she has As for Muskego, her husband, Herb, and the rest of left the Earth. their family, they of course still miss Bosse. The tribute features a painting of Bosse alongside “We’ll never stop missing her, but yet she would want one of her own paintings as well as her Education degree, us to carry on with our lives and make sure Faith is looked which the University of Saskatchewan awarded her after.” posthumously. Muskego he says this exhibit is an example that there MuskegosaysBosse’sownartworkshowshercreative is more than one way to raise awareness around missing side, and the degree shows she had goals and aspirations to and murderedAboriginal women. She says it doesn’t only reach for her dreams. have to be through marches and walks. Lieutenant Governor Gordon Barnhart presented flowers “Hopefullypeoplewillseenomatterwhatyou’regoing “Those are all really good, but as time goes by, her to Monica Goulet and ValArnault Pelletier. through, no matter how hard it may seem, you just keep on memory is still kept alive through art, which was one of her (Photo by John Lagimodiere) reachingforyourdreams,whatevertheymaybe.Ifayoung passions.Inastill,quietway,themessageisstillgoingforth. • Continued from Page One woman is inspired by that, that’s what it’s all about now,to “You can’t suppress it. Wehope it would go away and “They are the pipe carriers, the dreamers, the healers, help other people.” that our women would stop being murdered and going the herbalists, the peacemakers, and the community Jerome chose the photo of Bosse that he would paint. missing, but as long as it’s still going on, you still have to leaders.” “Whatever meaning that it can give to the person send the message, one way or another.” Eight women are featured in the exhibit and include looking at the picture ... to me, that’sgood,” says Muskego. It is the hope of Sasipenita’s board that this exhibit scholarandCreelinguistFredaAhenakew;LauraBigEagle, “The people who did talk to me, they just felt there was will eventually travel the province and perhaps the aformerchiefoftheOceanManFirstNationwhohassince something in that picture, the way she looks, that’sjust like country and beyond. passedon;FSINSenator,healer,mid-wifeandElderMarie they captivated her spirit. It is on display at Wanuskewin Heritage Park outside Merasty, who is also being recognized posthumously; “Because when you stand there and you look at it, it’s of Saskatoon until July 4. APRIL 2011 Eagle Feather News 3 Versatile LocalOnlyz one proli7c band

By Michael Bell day in the summer of 2010. The scenes backdrops in the video. Bellegarde said he’s unafraid to talk about For Eagle Feather News alternate between Bellegarde rapping, But don’t be fooled by the breezy politics and social issues. pring is flirting with us here in Merk spinning and Roussin singing in summer vibe of Next ToYou. Roussin and “As an artist, that’s the only way I Regina, but she just doesn’t seem various outdoor locations in Regina. A Bellegarde wrote the lyrics to the 13 tracks know how to speak on stuff is through ready for a serious relationship yet. beautiful woman also appears in the video, on the upcoming album Kings Among music,” he said. So it was still cold the night I went down The Saskatchewan art scene is small Sto get a photo of the Local Onlyz. enough that Roussin, Bellegarde and Merk I pulled up to The Club in my rusty but knew each other from “way back.” trusty ‘85 Corolla. The band’s guitarist Roussin used to perform in the Nancy Ray Thomas Roussin was at the entrance Guns. Meanwhile Bellegarde and Merk having a smoke. Emcee Brad Bellegarde, had their own musical collaboration who goes by the stage name InfoRed, was happening. Sometime after Roussin left also at the door. the Ray Guns, he suggested they meet to Weshook hands, went inside to get DJ try writing a song together. The collabo- “Merky Waters” Chris Merk for the photo. ration worked. They lined up against the wall, and I fired “Wepumped out a massive amount of away. songs within a short amount of time,” The reason I was there taking photos Bellegarde said. is because the Local Onlyz are smart about The Local Onlyz have been perform- self promotion. Their first album, Kings ing for about a year. Their first show was Among Clowns, comes out in June, but in March 2010 at the Sakewewak Story- they want to generate some excitement tellers Festival. Live performances occa- about it. To get the media buzzing, they sionally feature Nathaniel Bowen (also of just released an online video called Next the Nancy Ray Guns) on drums. ToYou, a track from the upcoming album. Thomas Roussin (left), Brad Bellegarde and Chris Merk pose for a photo an hour before Since then the four man band has “It’s our most pop driven song,” Belle- their show at The Club, March 24. The smooth rhyming hip-hop trio call themselves the performed regularly in Regina while garde explains. Local Onlyz. Missing from photo is Nathaniel Bowen. (Photo Michael Bell) completing the album. Once the album Next To You is a song about the drops in June, Bellegarde says the Local longing of separated lovers. The beat is representing one of the lovers about which Clowns. It will feature boiling, socially Onlyz hope to tour in the fall. relaxed, the guitar is smooth, and Belle- the lyrics speak. Various Queen City relevant tracks ranging from environ- The video Next To You and other garde’s rhymes land confidently in your landmarks, like First Nations University mental themes (Tar Sands Casino) to the songs by the Local Onlyz are searchable ear. The video was shot during one long of Canada and the Plains Hotel, feature as legacy of colonialism (Ground Control). on Facebook. 4 Eagle Feather News APRIL 2011

Rank Comix Adam Martin

Time for apologies

Last month we ran an unsigned letter from a Warrior Society that weighed in on the Chief Guy Lonechild controversy by asking him to resign. Unfortunately, there was no one person’s name tied to the letter and it seemed as though the letter was supported by the First Nations listed in calling for Chief Lonechild’s resignation. That is not correct. It must be clear that the Warriors Society letter was not endorsed by the elected leadership of the Ocean Man First Nation, the Pheasant Rump Nakota First Nation or the White Bear First Nation. It was an unsigned letter that should not have been printed. We apologize to Chief Guy Lonechild and his family for the harm done to his character by the publication of this letter. John Lagimodiere Publisher and Editor Eagle Feather News

Elder Peter Bigstone of the Nakota Society also gave us a call from Harlem, Montana where he resides.As a member of the Nakota Society, he asked around to see who sent the above mentione d letter. He could find no one who accepted responsibility. He was concerned that we ran the unsigned letter without checking around. He also believes that Chief Lonechild can use this situation to become a role model who can go and talk about this issue in the community and turn a bad situation into a good one. It was interesting to talk to Elder Bigstone about his work at Ocean Man First Nation and the preservation of his language and his time down in Montana. While we talked he told me to go to his web page if I needed further information. Sure enough, he had a great web page with lots of information. We are sorry we let Elder Bigstone down. While we are at it, we owe an apology to Elder Maggie Poochay. She was interviewed about the opening of the Old Peoples Program at the Saskatoon Tribal Council in January. During the interview, there was some joking around. One of those joking comments was misquoted in the article and it came out in the wrong meaning causing Elder Maggie some concern. We apologize for the confusion. Maggie VISIT US ONLINE AT is a wonderful lady who has done much for the community and we are sorry for the mistake. There was also an error in the story on Jennifer Campeau’s nomination to run for the Sask Party (March 2011, page 7).Asharp eyed eaglefeathernews.com reader pointed out that Eileen Gelowitz, who ran for the SaskParty in Saskatoon Fairview in 2007, was the firstAboriginal female candidate for the SaskParty.Also the quote attributed to Dani Herman on the front page of the March edition was a quote from Karen LaRocque. Lastly, the family of Ian Andrew Gamble was upset with a comment in our editorial about how the community treats women. It was a reference to his court case that wound up with him being convicted of two sexual assaults. The family has been in contact with us and have submitted to us some serious concerns they had about the case, the evidence and the court appointed lawyer. Expect more on this case in the future. Coming ne xt month

Coming in May is the ultimate youth and sports edition. We will have photos of the FSIN Youth Hockey Championships, as well as coverage of the National Aboriginal Hockey Championships. Also expect profiles of young First Nation and Métis people that are making a difference out there. Oh, and we hear there will be an election … insight on the future of Aboriginal people in Canada living under a minority government, next edition. Remember to vote. APRIL 2011 Eagle Feather News 5 The secret’sout; our artists were subversive

Aloha! dogharnessandsledsfromlocalwoodand politically for aboriginal people across not find art and books or hear music, see I am writing this in Hawaii and it is rawhide.Oneunclecarvedtheanimalsthat Canada.Thiswasthedecadethatproduced dance and theatre created by our people. warm and sunny with the most wonderful lived in our territory and my aunty made artists like Daphne Ojig, Jackson Beardy, Names like Allan Sapp, Judy Anderson, tropicalwindblowingofftheocean.Asoft dolls. These were the toys we played with NorvalMorreseau,AlexJanvier,andmany LouiseHalfe,NealMacleod,SherryFarrell moist wind that makes your hair curl and as children and some others. These artists Racette, Gerald MacMaster, Marlyn your skin feel like silk. of us still have and explored new Dumont, Leah Dorian, Eekwol, Christi I love it here and to think I have to treasure them today.It mediums in which to Belcourt,MaryLongman,RandyLunday, come back to all that snow and ice. I am in was these people in work, blending Gregory Scofield, Jay Ross, Tomson asmallcommunityandstayingwithfamily our family who western technologies Highway, Andrea Menard, and the in a private home with a beach a block inspired me to write, with aboriginal ideas Cuthands, not just one or two or three, but away. The landscape is spectacular with my brother to make and concepts. the whole family. Can you imagine! rugged mountains and a turquoise ocean films and another They put on Rita Bouvier, Kennetch Charlette, with huge waves that surfers ride from sun brother to paint. canvasorsculptedonstoneculturalimages Gary Farmer, Tantoo Cardinal, Marjorie up till sundown. All this beautiful work supplemented and stories that had been kept hidden for Beaucage, Shane Belcourt. Gilbert This morning I sat on the beach and ourincomeandpaidforfood,clothingand too long.Through their art they addressed Anderson,KimAndersonandthelistgoes watched the sun come up. I ate mangos, other necessary things.Without this art we issues of colonization, the political and on and on.Thousands of artists, sculptors, papayas and pineapple for breakfast and would probably have gone hungry many cultural tensions between Aboriginal and writers, poets, singers, songwriters, film drank coconut milk, all growing in the times especially when the price of fur was European traditions.They created contro- and video makers and musicians. Tradi- backyard of course. down.Nooneeverthoughtaboutitas“art” versyanddialogueamongtheirownpeople tional, contemporary and classical. My I am going to start writing historical but the people who did it were respected and forced us to do some critical thinking goodness, we even have blues and jazz romances to make money so I can keep and loved. and they introduced the country and the singersandwouldyoubelievethereare10 coming back cause I’m sure not making These people were also exceptional world to “NativeArt.” opera singers and at least fiveclassical any writing about us! Just kidding, I love storytellers and often the most culturally Following these artists, came writers, composerswithadistinctaboriginalsound, us and I don’t mind being poor but it is knowledgeable. Priests were not afraid of poets,singers,musiciansanddancers.The of course. beautiful here. them,norIndianagentsortheHudsonBay ceremonialists, artisans and craftspeople Names that are not just “rez,” I have seen lots of art since I arrived Company cause they were just creating who had kept it all alive watched old ways “community,” or “ hood” but are national and so I’ve been thinking about our own “Indian stuff” to sell. Who could possibly merged with new and changed again. At andinternational.Notbad,Iwouldsay,for artists and wondering how many people have thought they were subversive? But first there was fear at what was happening. a people who were supposed to be dying know what an important role they have they were. “We can’t mess around with those 50 years ago. played in all the changes we have come While creating “Indian stuff” they things,”theysaid.“Theyaresecret,sacred, I will risk you throwing something at through asAboriginal people. were passing on cultural traditions and mysterious.” me and remind you again that it was Riel Like many of you, I have been privi- sharing knowledge. They were, as an old And there was fear, too, on the part of who said, “my people will sleep for a 100 leged to have always been surrounded by Marxist said to me one day when we were the new artists, for who wants to be yearsandthenitwillbetheartistswhowill artists, artisans and craftspeople. My talking about the “radicals and revolution- shunned by their people? But there were lead them.” nokoms,momandauntiescreatedbarkand aries.” And long before them were the teachersandoldpeoplelikeStanandAdam And lead us they always have. No willow baskets, tanned hides like soft artists who created petroglyphs, medicine Cuthand, Smith Atimoyo, Ernest stealingofbandfundshere,orcountingthe velvet and beaded, quilled and embroi- wheels, pictographs and effigies: who Tootoosis, Ernie Benedict, Art Solomon, votes of dead people on election day or dered beautiful floral designs on jackets, painted dreams, visions and heroic deeds Mariah Cardinal, Lizette Ahenakew, Ida sellingourchildren’sresources.Ourartists moccasins and gloves. They made quilts on tipi’s, red river carts and winter counts. and John MacLeod. The list is long, but have always led us in an honourable way, from worn out scraps of family clothing Yes the lives of aboriginal people have they gave support and courage, reminding given us pride in who we are and courage and hooked colourful stories on old burlap always been rich with art, stories, music us that culture is not static, that we can tofacethefuturewithexcitementandhope. potato sacks and braided rugs for front and dance, even during the darkest times. respect it by taking it up and giving it life. How much more political can you get doors. The 1960s were an exceptionally And that is what has happened. then that? My dad and uncles made snow shoes, exciting time culturally, spiritually and One would have to look hard today to 6 Eagle Feather News APRIL 2011 Democratic de7cit?

s we read and hear about the Indians and see how many First Nations violent upheavals that are now names you see on that list. convulsing several states in the AreportledbySenatorLenMarchand Arabworldwearesubjectedtomanyjour- in the 1990s showed that there are quite a Analisticcommentariesaboutdemocracyand numberofridingswhereindigenouspeople its virtues. But how often are we similarly can, if they get together, determine who reminded of the failures of democracy in our own country? Now that a federal election has been called, it is a good time to reflect upon our political institutions. How democratic is Canada? How do indigenous people and political institutions factor in? It is the consensus of the tallest foreheads amongst the political scientists thatCanadaisabouttheleastdemocraticof wins. There were 12 at that time. The theWesterndemocracies.Themainculprit preferred route of the political representa- is the centralization of power in the office tiveorganizations,whichareoftenmiredin ofthePrimeMinister.ThePMappointsthe the work of administering government head of the RCMP; all the justices of not programs, seems to be to work with the onlytheSupremeCourtofCanada,butalso government of the day, and not rock the controlsalljudicialappointmentsabovethe boat. lowest rank of provincialcourt judges. Itseemsthatthetworemainingfactors He controls the government agenda. that give Canadians a bit of political With party discipline your MPis as useful influence are the free vote that is uncon- asatrainedsealunlesshehappenstobethe strained by party discipline and calls PrimeMinisterortheMinisterofFinance. governmentstoaccount,andtheexistence Canada needs Parliamentary reform but ofaformalOppositioningovernment.The there seems little hope of achieving it. latter is being weakened in Canada by the Perhaps the political parties are the only tactics that Harper has employed such as bodies with the capacity to change the dismissing Parliament, making the vote trappings of Prime Ministerial power, by even more crucial. demandingitoftheirleadershipcandidates. Inthecaseofindigenouspeople’sown Don’t hold your breath. political organizations, there is usually no Canadiansarenotoriouslycomplacent formal Opposition through which debate aboutpolitics.ForthefirsttimeinCanadian can be channeled, and office-holders are history,agovernmenthasfallenfrompower often not elected by popular mandate. because it was found to be in contempt of It must be kept in mind, however,that Parliament. The journalistic commentary contemporary indigenous political organ- largely overlooks it. I suspect most voters izations have emerged out of the shadows don’t know or care. Instead we are fed a ofaverylongperiodofpoliticaloppression running report on childish accusations. and suppression by Canadian policy and The Liberal leader, instead of blazing practice,withsomeofitbackedupbylaw, his own path of political rhetoric for the such as outlawing the status Indian vote campaign,(…i.e.byshowingcontemptfor from federal politics until 1960 and from our democratic system, every member of provincialpoliticsuntiltheperiodrunning this government has disqualified himself from the 1940s to the 1960s, the last from ever running from public office in province to grant the vote being Quebec. Canada … blah blah…) falls into the trap Ifwelookintothetraditionalpractices oflettingHarperdeterminewhatisargued of First Nations and Métis people in the over. Prairieregion,therearemanypracticesand The top experts tell us our taxation ideas that can suggest modern versions of systemishopelesslyvagueandunfair;not truly democratic institutions; institutions comprehensible to even the bureaucrats thatdiluteandde-centralizepower,andgive whoarechargedwithitsadministration,but voice to everyone. how much debate can we expect on such The Elders can give lessons on that. issues? What we see today in Saskatchewan, We are reminded here of the most however, are newly-created indigenous stunning of all comments ever in this political institutions that try to mirror context,byKimCampbellwhoisreported Canadian institutions, complete with the ashavingsaidthat‘electiontimeisnotime same labels. to discuss policy…” Is it time to look inside for inspiration Where do the indigenous voters and on how to work towards our collective organizations fit in? There is plenty of political aspirations? Or is what we see in opportunityforpoliticalactivismamongst the Canadian system the best that we can the representative institutions, but there is do? little public evidence of its practice. As we ponder the lessons from the Immigrantgroupsareabletoexertpolitical politics of theArab world and approach a influence by delivering votes. Check off federal election, these are worthwhile yourlistofrecentCabinetappointmentsof questions, are they not? APRIL 2011 Eagle Feather News - Arts & Entertainment 7 CBC honours “that which is going right” in Métis world

By Diane Adams Aboriginal Day ( June 21) on CBC Radio nected as they might think. Fiddler For Eagle Feather News stations across the country and regional- “We’re all living in the same space, we says CBC BC Saskatchewan is celebrating ly several times. Listeners can also expect all have a lot of the same goals and values, stories have the year after the year of the Métis to hear musical performances from First wewanttohavegoodfamilies,wewantour the power to with two special Métis shows. Nations and Métis talent from around kids to go ahead,” Fiddler said. helpdefineour The First, ê-miywahkamikahk, is a identity as Clive concert and comedy show. It was Canadians. recorded on February 25, 2010 at CBC’s “Ifwejustunderstoodourstoriesalittle Galleria in Regina. It is hosted by John better, we’d see that there’s much greater Lagimodiere and produced by the broad- connections between us,” she said. “That’s caster’s Merelda Fiddler. whatIthinkCBCcando,isshowallofthese “(The year of the Métis) was an ironic connections and how we’re all related.” kind of declaration,” Fiddler said. Fiddler says she thinks Métis values “Because 2010 marked 125 years since will resonate with listeners, especially as the resistance at Batoche, and people’s Canada becomes increasingly diverse. hopes and dreams for what they had “We’reactuallyallpartofonebigstory wanted for a Métis community were kind that’s Canada, and this big family that’s of dashed.” Canada,” Fiddler said. “The way it works Fiddler says she, and the CBC, want is very much like the Métis people. You to celebrate the successes of just continue to add everybody in because Saskatchewan’s Métis people through ê- The comedy Troupe Bucknaked Neechies and the musical talent gathered for a shot to it’s better to be together than it’s better to miywahkamikahk. The name loosely commemorate the evening. (Photo by CBC) be alone.” means “that which is going right.” Fiddler says it’s a play on the way Saskatchewan. First Nations and Métis people often refer “During some of the musical portions to the 1885 Battle at Batoche: “that which the room that was packed with almost 300 is going wrong.” people in it is silent listening to these The show features Métis comedy amazing musicians,” Fiddler said. skits by aboriginal funnymen The Buck- Fiddler says the CBC was amazed at nacked Neechies. Comprised of Neal the talent available right here in McLeod, Ed Doolittle and Robert Hoek, Saskatchewan.Theshowfeaturesperform- the neechies will take listeners on a time- ances from Riva Racette, The Aboriginal travel journey through Batoche, with the Talent Lounge, and the Local Onlyz. help of a Bannock Grease wormhole. “Their songs and the things that they had to share and say were so powerful,” Fiddler said. The second show, Wahkootowin, is a regional special that will focus on the value of family in Métis culture. Wahkootowin means“AllMyRelations.” Itwillbehosted by Merelda Fiddler and Sharon Gerein. “TheideabehindthisshowisthatMétis people really are people who absorb other people and bring them in. And we all just become part of a bigger and bigger family, she said. “(It’s) about those bigger families andthoseMétisstoriesandhowtheyitdraw us all in.” The name,Wahkootowin, comes from renowned Métis researcher, Brenda MacDougall and her research into family dynamics in Métis communities. Wahkootowin will air on CBC Saskatchewan on Easter Monday,April 25 from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. Listeners can expect to hear stories on Métis people and elders from across the province. “We interviewed people who remember back in the forties when Metis people from the south were forcibly moved to Green Lake,” Fiddler said. Fiddler will also take listeners on a journeytoherhometownofMeadowLake. Whilethere,shechangesthetown’sofficial Bill Cook rocked the joint with his original history. music. (Photo by CBC) “I realized when I was doing my “What I think people are going to hear mastersdegree,ourtownhistorysaysitwas when they hear the show is there’s all this founded by a guy from France,” Fiddler energy and laughter when the Bucknaked said. “I knew that wasn’t true. I knew that Neechies are performing ,” Fiddler said. myancestor who foundedthetownwas not “They’re giving us a really good taste of from France.” their comedic talents. Fiddler hopesWahkootoowin’sstories The showcase will air on National will bring Canadians together. She says people in this country are not as discon- 8 Eagle Feather News - Health APRIL 2011 Cancerpatientsneedsupportoffamily,friends

ighting cancer is about more than That support is coordinated so that It is very challenging and stressful taking tests and undergoing simply not available high quality caring for a loved one at the end of their treatment. It is about trying to stay in many places support is available life. It’s okay to ask for help and I would positive, finding relevant information, because of a for every patient, encourage you to look for respite care. Fmaking the best decisions and maintain- shortage of health- no matter where We can’t prevent cancer but we can ing strength at all levels; emotional, care workers trained they live.” make healthier choices that can decrease spiritual, physical and mental. in end of life care. Throughout our risk of getting cancer. It is also about surrounding yourself The healthcare May and June the If you are dealing with a cancer with family members and friends to walk system has made Canadian Cancer diagnosis try to surround yourself with with you during the surgery and treat- improvements to the treatment of cancer Society will be holding Relay for Life positive people. ments and afterward as people living with many patients living more than five events throughout the province. The There are many good reasons for with cancer. years after their initial diagnosis. events provide an opportunity for friends talking about your emotions, but if you We have to also acknowledge that That said we have an aging popula- and family to raise money to assist the feel that the best way for you to cope is some patients won’t survive and it’s tion that is growing in numbers and we Canadian Cancer Society in providing to just get on with things, you can ask crucial that their end of life care or pallia- will see more people dying of cancer and support to cancer patients. Check out others to respect your wishes not to talk. tive care allows the dying cancer patient other chronic illnesses. That’s just the their website for events in your area. Let them know that is you want to to spend their last days with dignity, free discuss anything you will bring it up. of pain and in a place of their choosing. “ ... the quality of care and services depends You may find it difficult to talk about According to Donna Zeigler, director your feelings with people close to you. of Cancer Control for the Canadian on where you live which means some patients You may find it helpful to talk to people Cancer Society in Saskatchewan: “Right who aren’t family or friends. You might now in Saskatchewan the quality of care and their families may not be getting the support want to talk to a counsellor or someone and services depends on where you live they need.” who had a similar cancer experience. which means some patients and their If you need help finding someone to families may not be getting the support way life is. If you or someone you know is talk to call the Canadian Cancer Society they need during a difficult time. This is Corinne Sandstrom, President of the dealing with cancer I encourage you to at 1-888-939-3333. not acceptable.” Saskatchewan Hospice Palliative Care see what type support is available in your Do you have a health question or Most people would prefer to die at Association says, “There will be an area. If your community has a health concern?You can write to me at Eagle home surrounded by friends and family, increasing need for palliative care clinic, ask the nurse to find information Feather News P.O. Box 924 St Main but this is not an option in many parts of services in Canada. on your type of cancer and what types of Saskatoon SK S7K 3M4 or email the province, particularly on reserves. “These services will need to be better home care is available. [email protected] Prostrate problems for men

By Flo Lavallee are natural ways to maintain prostate For Eagle Feather News health and to prevent prostate disease Many men require prostate support. and to maintain a healthy prostate. This small walnut sized gland near the Some ways of having a healthy bladder often needs attention as men prostate are by not drinking hard liquor, grow older. Common systems of especially beer and pop.Avoiding fried inflamed infected prostate gland under foods, sugar, white flour and foods with the testicles are frequent painful to pass additives preservatives, and alcohol. their water and only a small amount Spicy foods irritate the bladder which passes at a time, lower back pain and leg holds the urine (water) sitting on cold pains, no desire to have sex and feeling surfaces tired. Some remedies to consider are Ahigh fat diet with fried foods and eating pumpkin seeds (raw) unsalted. poor diet, too many over-acid or spicy They are very high in a mineral called foods, too much alcohol and coffee. zinc. Drinking cranberry and Pome- Poor circulation, lack of exercise, a zinc granate juice with no sugar added, eight deficiency and sexually transmitted classes of water are helpful. Horsetail diseases are some of the causes. and nettle tea helps reduce the swelling Example:Awhite discharge from the of the prostate. penis. Herbs called Saw Palmetto, But men can manage problems of licorice, grape seed, green tea extract the prostate with prevention and are very helpful. Evening of Primrose lifestyle support. Having sex during a Oil is also suggested to normalize the prostate infection will irritate the hormones. prostate. After the infection has passed Therapies- Reflexology is a normal sex life can continue. treatment that helps to stimulate the As a man gets older the male reflexes to prostate, helps to relax the hormone called testosterone will get bladder by stimulating the reflexes on lower. These are changes in a man’s the bottom of the feet. This treatment body that happen also for the circula- will also help the kidney and improve tion, bones, muscle, mood and the the flow of urine. ability to remember. These concerns for I recommend consultation with men about their prostate and sex drive your physician to correct the prostate are age related concerns for men. There situation from getting more serious. APRIL 2011 Eagle Feather News 9 10 Eagle Feather News - Arts & Entertainment APRIL 2011 Scary side of photography motivates Palidwar

By Michael Bell www.kymberrae.ca, you might ask It was a high pressure situation, For Eagle Feather News yourself how she managed to throw but she made it through. hree young women stand in a herself into such varied lighting and “Every time I pick up the camera line, each looking over her people situations and still produce there’s always something new to shoulder toward the camera. good results. For instance, her first learn, every single time, and I hope They look happy and relaxed. They wedding. What was that like? that never ends,” she said. Twear graduation dresses, and they’re “So scary,” she says. She felt the During our half hour phone pretty as flowers. The blonde wears pressure of documenting the event, interview, I heard the voice of a pink, the redhead wears purple, the but it did not overwhelm her. If confident, energetic person. dark-haired woman wears green. anything, she fed on the pressure, and And despite the good start Their frilly beauty contrasts with the she recalled that day as “a blast.” Kymber Rae Photography has had in hard grey of the covered iron bridge Or another first: a portrait session its first year, it is not a full-time job for upon which they stand. The contrast of girls at a skating tournament. Palidwar. Nor does she want it to be. makes the image work. Palidwar paints a chaotic scene of I do it because it’s fun and it’s a The three friends were from setting up lights, hanging the creative outlet, she said. different towns, from different high- backdrop, posing the girls (as young “I find that every time you schools and had different graduation as five years old), setting up the shots accept an opportunity that comes dates.They wanted grad photos taken and all the while sports moms your way, every time you accept the together to commemorate their friend- hovering around waiting for perfect chance to grow or learn, I think that's ship. That’s when they asked results. always a positive thing.” Kymber Palidwar, an amateur photographer, to help them out. It was June 2010, Palidwar’s first official booking. Since then, she’s taken on photography in a much more serious way. It started as a hobby. Palidwar, who calls Nipawin home but recently moved to Saskatoon, had a simple point-and-shoot digital camera. She would shoot whatever struck her as an interesting image. Her inter- national travels gave her chances to document people and landscapes in Thailand and Peru.After one such trip, a woman from Choiceland said to Palidwar: “Your pictures are awesome, can I buy some?” The woman wanted to enlarge the images to use as decoration for her home. Palidwar agreed, and sold her first print. Afew months later, she put photos on Facebook, to a warm reception from the online community. Then Palidwar decided to shoot her sister’s graduation as a gift. And then the grad girls called, and she found herself on an iron bridge taking photos on her first paid booking. Her hobby was about to upgrade to “part-time business.” Since June of last year, Palidwar has done about 30 photography gigs, ranging from weddings and family portraits, to photojournalistic coverage of events (she was the official photographer for the Batoche 125th Anniver- sary celebrations), to concep- tual art. Not bad for someone Kymber Palidwar isn’t looking for a full-time gig; with no formal photographic just a chance to learn and have fun training. In fact, if you survey APRIL 2011 Eagle Feather News - Arts & Entertainment 11 No place for censorship like that tried by Poundmaker

othingcouldkeepmefromPound- Chief and Council had no right to ban them adapted it to make it contemporary using of Rights and Freedoms, for the freedom of makertoseeaplaythatwasbanned from a community hall, so they made plans characters that were believable, passionate speech. It allowed me to enjoy a small and by Chief and Council. I was to go ahead as andeloquent. intimate play, and to revel in the spirit of a shocked,utterlyshocked.Whobansaplay? scheduled, and “The original is a passionate theatrical troupe and its incredi- NSince when did elected leaders become planned to use police beautiful play, and blysupportiveaudience. absoluterulers,censoringartastheyseefit? escorts in and out of when I read it I saw a “I want the audience, particularly First Withallthecontroversy,Ijusthadtosee the building if lot of parallelism with Nations, to think critically about how we Antigone,bylawyer,playwright,andPound- necessary. First Nations culture,” governourselves,”saidKasokeo.“Especially maker band member, Deanne Kasokeo. Yet, as of March saidKasokeo. sincetheimpositionoftheIndianActonour KasokeoadaptedAntigonefromSophocles’ 31at3o’clock,hours A few toddlers people.Priortocolonizationtraditionalforms playandplacedhersettingonareserve,with before curtain time, evensatquietly,capti- ofgovernancewerenon-existenttomostFirst acorruptchiefandcouncildenyingAntigone theywerelockedoutofthecommunityhall. vated by the story.One little girl in a purple Nations. It is time to realize the imposed the right to bury her deceased and banished Panicked,andawaitingthearrivalofguests, sweat suit watched, completely enthralled governance principles are not our own and brother at their reserve. they had to improvise and quickly find during the hour-long performance. I don’t we need to reflect our beliefs and values as However, days before show time, anotherlocation. blame her. I’ve also never been to a more FirstNationspeople.” Chief and Council intervened. I arrived at the reserve at 7:00 p.m., thrilling play.The story was engaging and Censorship does nothing but enhance “It was apparently banned by a baffled to discover everything had been easy to follow but what moved me the most the illustriousness of art.After all, good art motion at a meeting two days before it secretlymovedtotheschool.Howexciting, was the sense of spirit in the crowd, a spirit getspeopletalking.Greatartchangespeople. was to be shown in Poundmaker for the I thought – a clandestine play! Kasokeo that couldneverbedenied. Antigone’s debut could not have come at a reason that the Chief thought the play greeted me and led me toward the Embracingandattendingtheplaywould better time, when many First Nations was about him,” said Kasokeo. gymnasium where they had set up a havebeentheperfectopportunityforPound- communities have begun to question the Kasokeo insisted the play had makeshift stage in the center of the room. maker’sChiefandcounciltopokefunatthose motivesoftheirleaders. nothing to do with them. Mats and chairs marked the square stage stereotypesofcorruptchiefs.Unfortunately Asofpresstime,PoundmakerChiefand “It was first performed at the Globe outline and rows of chairs were set on two theirinsecuritiestookoverandtheyactedin Council could not be reached for comment. Theatre in 1998, produced by Red Tattoo sidesofthe‘stage’. what can only be seen as a Fascist manner. If you would like to bookAntigone in your Ensemble. It was also published in 2002 by GordonTootoosis,abandmemberand Their reaction to Poundmaker’sdebut play community,contact Floyd at: floyd_favel- Coteau Books in Regina in an anthology of renownedactor,waseveninattendance.He wasnotonlyunsettlingandatriflehumorous, [email protected] (306) 481-6341 or playscalledTheGreatGiftofTears.” stoodandsaidafewwordsofencouragement it left me wondering if they indeed had Deanneat:[email protected](306) Both occurred long before the present- infavouroftheartsbeforetheplaybegan. somethingtohide. 390-7754. dayleaderswereeverelected. The play’stragedies are almost exactly IthoughtthedaysofIndianAgentswere Ifyouhaveanartist,entertainerorevent When Kasokeo and the director of on par with Sophocles’Antigone, just with over, but who needs IndianAgents to block that you think should be featured in Eagle Antigone,FloydFavel,learnedofthemotion, an edgier, more modern spin. Sophocles culture and spirit, when you have Chief and Feather News, drop me a line at: snazzy- theyconsultedtheRCMPanddiscoveredthat wrote his play in 442 BC, and Kasokeo Council,right?ThankyouCanadianCharter [email protected]! 12 Eagle Feather News APRIL 2011 Candidates courting Aboriginal vote in North

By Barbara Woolsey He is urging Elections Canada to For Eagle Feather News make an extra effort to spread n Northern Saskatchewan, the Abo- awareness about the voting process in riginal vote will be powerful in the remote northern regions. upcoming federal election. The Aboriginal vote is crucial in The majority of constituents in the picking a candidate to address the is- IDesnethe-Missinippi-Churchill River sues in Desnethe-Missinippi-Churchill riding are of Aboriginal descent, with 23 River. First Nations bands and numerous re- “It’s an opportunity for First Na- serves located in the area. tions and Métis to have their voices An election could have a huge im- heard within the Canadian system,” pact for the electoral district. In Northern said Lafond. Saskatchewan, social issues such as “It’s important for them to be rep- poverty and crime are prevalent. Some communities do not have running water resented in Ottawa and this is the only way for them to pick a candidate that or road access, leaving them isolated and ROB CLARKE LAWRENCE JOSEPH GABE LAFOND facing high costs of transportation and represents their interests.” goods as a result. “What I hear from community NDP candidate Lawrence Joseph members and leaders (in the area) is is frustrated by the lack of infrastruc- that the issues in Northern ture development, which he considers Saskatchewan have mostly fallen on to be a failure of the Conservative gov- deaf ears in Ottawa,” said Lafond, orig- ernment. inally from Green Lake. “The issues that face us in this rid- “That is what has motivated me to ing are much bigger than partisan pol- get out there and decide to run for of- itics,” said Joseph, former FSIN chief fice.” and a member of the Big River First What the rural riding needs is af- Nation Band. fordable housing and further employ- “While this government was con- ment and education opportunities, he templating a $6 billion tax break for said. corporations, what that money would “Young Aboriginal people grow- be able to do for Northern ing up in the North face all sorts of Saskatchewan is a dream.” challenges such as the high unemploy- For Joseph, who grew up in ment rate,” explained Lafond. “(Lack poverty, the reality that others continue of) running water is an issue in many to exist under such conditions is communities, even in this day and age. painful. We need to address growth productiv- “I can’t remember sitting down to ity and infrastructure deficits in the a meal at anytime as a kid, I can’t re- North so that these communities can member any new clothing,” he said. live under the same standards as the “I see people today that are strug- rest of Canadians.” gling with their lives and I’ve been The challenge in the upcoming there, done that. To still see that hap- election is to overcome barriers that pening in our rich country and province may prevent voters from getting to is totally unacceptable.” polling stations in the rural riding. Conservative MP Rob Clarke de- “A lot of the people in my riding fends the government’s 2011 budget don’t have the means to get to polling that was voted down, pointing to the stations,” said Joseph. Children’s Arts Tax Credit and the “And if they do make it, sometimes Family Caregiver Tax Credit. they are turned away because of not “This is, in fact, a great budget having the proper identification or for Northern Saskatchewan,” he said in proof of residency. a statement. “It’s amazing how many people Liberal candidate, Gabe Lafond, wanted to vote for me (in the last elec- disagrees. tion) but couldn’t.” APRIL 2011 Eagle Feather News 13

ANOTHER TERM Tammy Cook Searson was sworn in again as Chief of the Lac La Ronge Indian Band. Chief Cook Searson received 1,045 votes out of 3,302 voters. She beat her nearest competitor by 385 votes. On her Facebook Page she sent a message to her supporters. “Thank you to all the Lac La Ronge Indian Band membership for the overwhelming support. I am looking forward to continuing to serve you and work with the elected council members. We had a historic number of people who came out to vote, which shows that our people have an interest in the governance of our strong and proud Woodland Cree First Nation. “wīcātoskīmitotān mīna sītoska- totān” “Let’s work together and support each other.” (Photo Carmen Pauls Orthner) 14 Eagle Feather News - Education APRIL 2011

Dylan Genaille interviews a University of Regina student about homelessness. (Photo by Leisha Grebinski) Young reporters 7nd homelessness a cause worth writing about

By Leisha Grebinski running around here,” says 19-year-old For Eagle Feather News Ezekial Steve. tudents at Sacred Heart Community Thirteen-year-old Joshua Mawien School in Regina have been honing loved talking to the university students. their reporting skills to learn more “It was exciting to see them helping about the city’s homelessness issue. people. I’d like to help others and help the SThe Grade 3 and Grade 6 students homeless and stuff.” went to the University of Regina to Courtney says this project has interview students who were camping motivated her to do more to help the outside campus for five days to raise homeless, such as give money to people awareness about homelessness. who are asking for it on the street. The elementary students prepared a “They gave us an opportunity to list of questions to ask the university come all the way here and interview students such as: “Tell me about the five them,” says 11-year-old Courtney Bacon. days for the homeless project?” and “Do “I thought it was great and exciting. They you miss your family?” took the time to answer my questions.” Teachers Angie Sazyinski and Terri Back in the classroom, the Grade 3 Cote were thrilled to see the student- students are using their interviews to reporters hard at work. make brochures with photos and drawings “This provides them with a real to help raise awareness about homeless- opportunity to use their speaking skills, ness. The Grade 6 students are writing ask what we call ‘fat questions’to get lots speeches about why homelessness is an of information. And really, just for them important issue to them. to have the confidence to find out what’s The students have also been raising going on in their community,” says Cote. money for a non-profit organization called “The students are going above and the Ladybug Foundation that helps the beyond too,” says Sazyinsnki. homeless. “We came up with a questionaire but The organization was started by an they are saying ‘I have my own questions’ eight-year-old girl named Hannah Taylor. so they are flipping over the page and The students were so inspired by Taylor coming up with their own questions.” that they have raised money by selling The university students were also cookies, cupcakes, bannock, Christmas pleased to see young kids interested in the cards, and used toys. issue of homelessness. So far the students have raised “It’s so great to see these little guys $611.12. Their goal is to raise $1,000. APRIL 2011 Eagle Feather News - Arts & Entertainment 15 Turning blank canvases into cash

By Andréa Ledding So it’swin/win for artists, community,and art-owners. For Eagle Feather News Lastyear,thefirsttimetheytriedtheproject,canvaseswent eople of all backgrounds and ages in Saskatoon’s out in January, and Whitebear, who works two part-time coreneighbourhoodrespondedtoDeanWhitebear’s and one full-time position based out of the Food Bank and “canvassing”toraisefundsforcharityandinnercity Learning Centre, ran the project along with Janet Clark, his citizens through donated works of art. director. But it was a lot of work – this year they have an PClose to 60 blank canvases have been donated by Inte- assistant, and a committee. grated Community Ministries, painted by citizens and “Janet and I were running ourselves ragged, doing displayed at MeewasinValley United Church, and will be everything, it was very tiring – fun and a lot of positive moved toAmigo’sfor silent auction bidding by the middle response but I was really tired at the end of the project,” ofApril.OnSunday,May14 from 2p.m.to5p.m.,thefinal noted Whitebear. bidding will close at 4 p.m. But the unique part is sharing This year was a lot more manageable – and his two- all proceeds evenly between each volunteer artist and year old daughter painted one of the pieces. Meewasin Valley United Church. “Shepickedherowncoloursanddidherownlittlething “This is our second year and we call it the ‘Ten By on it, it has an abstract look to it. I filmed her doing it.” Ten’(10 x 10) Art Project,’because that’s the size of the Already there is someone interested in bidding on canvases we hand out,” explained Whitebear. it, Whitebear said, adding Integrated Community “Wehanded out 58, got 52 back, starting in November Ministries is part of the United Church congregation this time. Half the proceeds goes to the artist, and half goes working with innercity projects, and partnering with downtown organizations. to the charity.” Dean Whitebear and one 10 x 10. • Continued on Page 23 16 Eagle Feather News APRIL 2011 APRIL 2011 Eagle Feather News - Education 17

Minister Ken Cheveldayoff, MLTC Chief Eric Sylvestre, Minister Rob Norris, Minister John Duncan, STC Chief Felix Thomas, YTC Chief Gilbert Panipekeesick, ACTC Chief Steven Jim, FHQTC Chariman Edmund Bellegarde and MP Rob Clarke were all on hand for the signing ceremony. (Photo by John Lagimodiere) Agreement will boost First Nations employment

By Darla Read “Bringing those employments home to our commu- Norris says this MOU is of benefit to the whole For Eagle Feather News nities – a lot of our people don’t want to leave our province, not just First Nations. ive of the province’s tribal councils have signed communities, and I think it’s important we recognize “First Nations participation in our economic devel- an agreement to work with government to increase that,” says Jim. opment is not an option: it’s an imperative.” First Nations participation in the province’s labour The goals of the MOU are to provide more access Meadow Lake Tribal Council Chief Eric Sylvestre force. to career planning, skills development and employment says leaders haven’t found all the answers on how to FThe chiefs of Saskatoon Tribal Council, Meadow counselling; more access to literacy and adult education break the cycle of dependency, but says different levels Lake Tribal Council, Agency Chiefs Tribal Council, through providing training allowances, transportation of government working together is a good start. Yorkton Tribal Council and File Hills Qu’Appelle Tribal and child care; and to work with industry to make sure But, he says there still needs to be a closer look at Council were joined by then-Minister of Indian and skills training meet the demands of the labour market. on-reserve education. Northern Affairs Canada, John Duncan and Saskatoon Tribal Council Chief Felix Thomas says “If we are expected to deliver curriculum to meet Saskatchewan’s Minister of Advanced Education, there are major cost savings to investing in First Nations provincial standards, then we need to be funded at the Employment and Immigration, Rob Norris in Saskatoon youth now to ensure they get good jobs rather than being provincial funding levels.” last month to sign the “Active Measures” Memorandum dependent on income assistance. Not all of Saskatchewan’s tribal councils signed the of Understanding. “When we look at the cost savings of getting a young MOU, but it remains open to others. Federation of As one of the young chiefs in the province, Agency person off SocialAssistance, you know we save four or Saskatchewan Indian Nations Chief Guy Lonechild Chiefs Tribal Council Chief Steven Jim says he sees the five thousand dollars a year. But, you know what our expects others to sign soon, particularly the PrinceAlbert importance in looking for answers within First Nations benefit is? Grand Council. communities and says education and training are key, as “Forty to fifty thousand dollars a year when that AnActive Measures Steering Committee will be well as finding and creating jobs on-reserve. young individual participates in the economy.” formed to ensure the implementation of this MOU. 18 Eagle Feather News - Business & Careers APRIL 2011 Métis leaders take positive business message to the grassroots level

By John Lagimodiere Of Eagle Feather News étis community and business leaders from Northern Saskatchewan joined industry and various levels of government to engage in open and frank discussions about economic develop- Steve Danners, Director- Métis Energy and Resource Program at the Clarence Campeau Development Fund ment opportunities and challenges. presented at the Métis National Council Economic Development Forum as Richard Gladue ofAreva, Darwin M (Photo by John Lagimodiere The bull pit session in P.A. saw topics discussed Roy of Cameco and Buffalo Narrows Mayor Bobby Woods looked on. ) ranging from forming partnerships and procurement to community economic development. This was the first of a series of Economic Development Forums being planned across the Métis Nation homeland by the Métis National Council, Governing Members and Ledcor Industries. The forums follow on the heels of a highly successful Métis Economic Development Symposium last January in Vancouver. Now, the accomplishments achieved at the national symposium are being shared at the grassroots level. Clarence Campeau Development Fund Director, Roland Duplessis high- lighted the many successes Métis businesses have had in Northern Saskatchewan although, he indicated there’s much more work to be done. The Clarence Campeau Development Fund and SaskMétis Economic Development Corporation help to provide financial assistance or start up capital for aspiring or existing Métis entrepreneurs. Métis National Council President Clément Chartier sees the role of the MNC in economic development as helping through the creation of policy. “The MNC has been very involved with the Federal government on a Métis Nation specific process and trying to carve out a Métis allocation. We have, I think, been doing a good job,” said President Chartier. “The process at the policy level is often slow, but we are making processes available for interaction. So here today, we have involved industry. “If we are to begin making a difference in our communities, we need to host frank, open discussions between business and grassroots. It was encouraging to hear industry leaders say they are eager to do business with our people but need their expertise to open the way.” Corporations such as world MNC PRESIDENT CLEM CHARTIER Uranium giants Cameco and Areva, SaskEnergy, SaskPower, SaskTel, Shore Gold and Federal Public Works were a few of the presenters to offer insight and guidance on topics areas such as partnerships, procurement and community economic development. There are four more regional forums to take place across the northern parts of the Métis homeland in the next fiscal year. “These forums help us share what is happening at the national level with folks at the regional level,” added President Chartier. “And it engages industry in those regions. This is branching out and getting everybody involved. These are the opportunities we want to offer.” APRIL 2011 Eagle Feather News - Business & Careers 19 Generating economic development

he Government of Saskatchewan, SaskPower and the newly established First Nations PowerAuthority have signed Ta Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will help the province’s First Nations advance their power generation projects. “This MOU highlights the efforts of the Government of Saskatchewan First Nation and provincial political leaders gathered in Regina for an historic MOU signing that will see First Nations engage with SaskPower to actively engage First Nations in the in future power development. province’s growing economy,” Premier Brad Wall said. jobs and opportunities for First Nations people and “Many Saskatchewan First Nations are already communities.” pursuing economic development opportunities through SaskPower is making a multi-year, multi-billion potentially owning and operating power generation dollar investment to renew the province’s electricity projects. The MOU sets out a partnership framework for system. The demand for electricity in the province is a more streamlined process to help First Nations move expected to increase by about 2.4 per cent annually over their projects forward for consideration.” the next decade. The provincial government was looking for oppor- Each of the 74 Saskatchewan First Nations will have tunities to engage First Nations in developing power the opportunity to hold membership in FNPAand partic- generation projects, which led to the formation of First ipate in the governance of the organization through its Nations PowerAuthority (FNPA). Supported by various board of directors. First Nations with existing or imminent power projects, “This MOU opens the door to significant opportu- FNPAwill be a non-profit, membership-based corpora- nities for Saskatchewan First Nations to partner in the tion. development of power generation projects,” FNPABoard “This partnership is clearly an important milestone Chair Ben Voss said. for Saskatchewan’s First Nations,” Federation of “This will result in a higher probability of viable, Saskatchewan Indian Nations Chief Guy Lonechild said. long-term sustainable First Nation economic develop- “We are pleased to continue to support FNPAas it ment opportunities while helping SaskPower meet the develops,” he said. province’s electricity supply needs.” “SaskPower will need new projects to meet Discussions will continue between the Government Saskatchewan’s growing demand for electricity,” of Saskatchewan, SaskPower and FNPAover the coming Minister responsible for SaskPower Rob Norris said. months to formalize the FNPA’s relationship with “This is a once-in-a-generation chance to create new SaskPower. 20 Eagle Feather News - Business & Careers APRIL 2011

VISIT US ONLINE AT eaglefeathernews.com APRIL 2011 Eagle Feather News - Business & Careers 21 IANE honours business achievers By Andréa Ledding result of all her efforts and networking attempts, and there and GamingAuthority.The award, given to any business, For Eagle Feather News was a 60 per cent increase in Aboriginal hiring at company, government department orAboriginal organ- he very best of Aboriginal business achievers were honoured at a recent gala event. Inter- provincial Association Native Employment (IANE) held its 2011 National Conference in Saskatoon Tin March, including an awards gala and leadership award in March. Held at the Radisson Hotel, the banquet featured hosts Gilles Dorval andAngie Merasty, as presentations, a speaker's panel, and the Ivan Ahenakew and Bill Hanson Awards were given out. These awards are highly respected, identifying one business and individual each year to recognize and honour their contribution and commitment to Aborigi- nal advancements. Recipients and nominators do not necessarily need to be members of IANE. The prestigious Bill HansonAward, named after a founding member of IANE, is granted to an individual within Canada who has been successfully involved in training and employment initiative promoting Aborigi- nal employment for displaying commitment, effort and success while facilitating employment opportunities. This year’s award was presented posthumously to the lateAgnes Brass, and accepted on her behalf by Darcy Tourangeau and David Gwilliam. “I would run into her at different career fairs, representing SaskPower where she worked as their Aborigi- The Bill HansonAward was presented posthumously to the lateAgnes Brass, and accepted on her behalf by nal Sourcing Consultant,” said one of the many speakers Darcy Tourangeau and David Gwilliam. who shared words about her. “Agnes worked hard to build relationship and trust.” SaskPower, which is one of the Crown corporations best ization that has shown results in the areas of Aboriginal She also encouragedAboriginal education, and many known for its active recruitment of a representatively employment initiatives, was proudly accepted on SIGA’s approaches to employment – giving Aboriginal appli- Aboriginal workforce. behalf by Human Resources Vice-President, Shauna cants encouragement with practical tips, assistance with The fact that 25 to 30 per cent of all apprentices are Bear. resumés, upgrading advice, and how to interview well. Aboriginal was directly due to Brass and her hard work The banquet also featured a Leadership Panel More than a resource for SaskPower, Agnes was a and determination as she developed a best practice for which included SIGA’s Shauna Bear, Randell Morris community resource – she was the originator of the inno- other Canadian employers to follow. of SIIT, SeanWilly of Cameco, and Bonnie Blakely of vative approach in bringing employer booths to pow The national recipient of the Ivan Ahenakew SHR. wows. award, named in honour of another founding member of The evening was rounded out with entertainment by Applications increased over 50 per cent as a direct IANE, was Saskatchewans own Saskatchewan Indian the Hughston Band. 22 Eagle Feather News APRIL 2011 Lafond has eyes on Ottawa

By Carmen Pauls Orthner the importance of listening carefully to For Eagle Feather News those who feel ignored or silenced. He former Métis Nation of talked about engaging in a collaborative Saskatchewan official is taking process to find out what they believe must his political ambitions both change – whether that’s seeing education farther afield and closer to home. forAboriginal young people “as an invest- AGabe Lafond has launched his ment and not an expense,” channelling campaign to win the Desnethe-Missinip- infrastructure dollars into the region, or pi-Churchill River riding – which includes ensuring that the government properly his hometown of Green Lake – for the provides for the vulnerable (the elderly Liberal Party of Canada. and those with disabilities) and supports Lafond, who was elected in 2007 as their initiatives “to make sure that they MN-S treasurer, stepped down in order to have an opportunity to be part of seek the Liberal nomination. He has since Canadians' prosperity.” been working as the representative Lafond said he’s eager to follow up workforce manager for the Saskatoon on some of the concerns he’s heard Health Region, which involves helping already, whether from an elder in Green First Nations and Métis people find career Lake who gave him both a talking to about Veteran Saskatchewan MP Ralph Goodale listens as Gabe Lafond makes a point. opportunities within the health region. not coming to his door wearing a white At his campaign launch in La Ronge shirt and tie, and the blessing of an eagle passionately at the campaign launch about “That’s one idea I’d like to on March 28, Lafond repeatedly stressed feather, or from renowned disability the need for a pension plan for the champion,” Lafond said of Tinker’s advocate Gary Tinker, who spoke out disabled. proposal. APRIL 2011 Eagle Feather News - Business & Careers 23 Vermette urges UAS committee members to seize opportunities

eggy Vermette opened the Saskatoon UrbanAborig- inal Strategy Community Consultation with a straight message to the participants. “The opportunities are there. Go get them,” said PVermette, the Labour Force Development Project Coor- dinator for the Saskatoon Tribal Council. “We have our own answers to community development. We know what we need and we have the answers and skills in the community to get it. A hundred people had gathered on a chilly spring Saturday to discuss the strategic pillars of the local Urban Aboriginal Strategy Committee. Following Vermette’s inspiring speech, everyone took part in a world cafe where people moved from table to table From left, employment specialist Peggy Vermette, entrepreneurs Eva Lizotte to hear from a group that had received funds from the and Curtis Isbister, and educators DellaAnaquod and Gord Martell show off Urban Aboriginal Strategy Committee. PEGGY VERMETTE the gifts they received from the committee for sharing their stories. People were then split into groups to hear presenta- (Photos by John Lagimodiere) tion on education, entrepreneurialism or employment. The participants were then asked their thoughts on the assigned Arts project makes artists out of almost anyone topics. The conversation was captured by committee members • Continued from Page 15 Gallery andArt Placement, as well asAmigo’s, raising who will use the feedback to decide where to invest several “We use the ‘10 by 10’to partner with people off more than projected and winning the Merv Harris award hundreds of thousands of dollars that can help make the streets as well, not just organizations, a lot of for community partnerships. Saskatoon a better place for Aboriginal people. people have come and made contributions even “It’s really great I think. From the abstract ones like Dale Ahenakew introduced Don Bear as the new co- though they don't consider themselves to be artists,” my daughter’s to other themes picked up. chair of the Urban Aboriginal Strategy in Saskatoon. said Whitebear. “None of the artists work together or know each “Any background or walks of life, from age two, other and yet there were quite a few that had similar up to seniors.” themes – the same thoughts of what they want to put VISIT US ONLINE AT Last year the project partnered with AKA Art down.” eaglefeathernews.com 24 Eagle Feather News APRIL 2011

AFFINITY CASH FOR CORE Affinity Credit Union Senior Vice President of Corporate Development Linda Moulin and Carol Cisecki, Labour Community Representative forAffinity, present a cheque to Christian Bear for $20,000. Christian was accepting the money on the behalf of the Core Neighbourhood Youth Coop in Saskatoon. Affinity Credit Union is a regular supporter of grass root initiatives in the community through their Community Economic Development committee made up of board members, staff and credit union members. (Photo by John Lagimodiere) APRIL 2011 Eagle Feather News - Sports 25 PCN Raiders, Red Pheasant rally to win Weenie Cup

UTKNIFE, TREATY SIX Moosomin reserves in the past. Then it Jr. Raiders, Foster Creek, Thunderchild press time. The Nationals, likely the TERRITORY – Lawrence was relocated to Saskatoon for two years and then the A side winners Sweet Grass hottest rez team in the province, lead by Weenie Cup Tomahockey hosted before moving it back closer to home. Aces. brothers Sheldon and Tyson Wuttunee and six masters and six recreation teams in the “The Lawrence Weenie Cup will The MVP trophy went to Tyson Drew Rose, Ryan Baptiste and great goal- Cold barn in Cut Knife on the weekend of remain in the Battlefords March 5-6. region from here on and will The event was marked with a special become one of the annual tribute on Saturday evening to Freddie traditional tournaments for Sasakamoose, the first treaty Indian to the guys in the area” said play in the NHL. Tootoosis. The masters teams included entries The PCN Raiders had from Kanatinak Store Old Skins, Little victories over Thunderchild Pine, PCN, Thunderchild and Big Island then lost to Kanatinak Store Lake. Old Skins before clawing Sasakamoose recalled playing in the their way back on the B side Cut Knife Civic Centre back in the day to reach the final and when it was a new facility and had natural rematch with the Old Skins. ice. He remembered the days when four Veteran Lou Gardiner Indian teams and four white teams would of the Raiders almost single compete for the coveted Tomahockey handed led the pace by trophy back in the ‘70s. scoring and setting up goals “It’s nice to see the name Tomahock- to edge the Old Skins in a ey has been kept alive and to see fitness very excitingA-B final. Big and active lifestyles is going strong in our Lou was honoured for his The Red Pheasant Nationals, captured their fifth tournament of the season, making them early favourites community,” Sasakamoose said. efforts and presented with at the upcoming FSIN Championships. (Photo supplied) Tournament organizer and founder of the MVPtrophy.Third place the Lawrence Weenie Cup, Milton overall went to Little Pine. Wuttunee (Red Pheasant Nationals). The tending by Jordan Nightraveler, will be Tootoosis added: “It was also time to bring In the younger recreation division, squad from Red Pheasant had captured favourites heading into the FSINAll rez the event back closer to the Poundmaker Red Pheasant Nationals took the champi- their fifth tournament of the season at championships. Cree Nation, home of the late Lawrence onship trophy the hard way also by Weenie.” fighting their way back from the B side The Lawrence Weenie Cup was after losing their first match versus Thun- established in 2000 and played out of derchild. North Battleford, Red Pheasant and The Nationals defeated Poundmaker 26 Eagle Feather News - Sports APRIL 2011 Regina makes bid for NAIG

By Jennifer Dubois For Eagle Feather News bid to host the North American Indigenous Games was presented by the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations and the City of Regina on March 11. Charter busses toured the city’s Avenues to impress the NAIG Site Evaluation Committee. Regina is one of three cities that have a bid in for the 2014 Games. “I think it’s an opportunity for us to showcase our city, our province, our culture and our athletes as well and bring the rest of NorthAmerica here and see what else we have to offer,” says Courage Bear, Director of Sports, Culture, Youth and Recreation with FSIN. He says even though the last two bids were not successful in previous years, he is still adamant Regina is a strong candidate. “We are comfortable and confident that we have a Team Saskatchewan was unbeatable at the 2008 Games held in Cowichan, British Columbia. strong bid package and a good committee.” will generate up to 10,000 people. Some aspects of the NAIG committee selection “We are looking at about 5,000 junior participants, process has recently changed. Bear feels these changes 1,000 coaching, support staff, and probably another provide better clarity for Regina’s bid. 1,000 staff that goes along with the teams, but because “They have more of a detailed process that outlines it’s an amateur event, it’s grass roots competition for a the expectations at each stage and they’ve developed lot of people. some other governing documents that kind of guide and “A lot of the families come with their athletes, and assist how those decisions are made,” he said. the city just swells upwards of 10,000 people just for the Norman Ettawacappo, Executive Director of the week during the games,” said Ettawacappo. NAIG Council, says the final decision will be made in Bear said the increase in people to Regina for the Moncton, New Brunswick in May. games will only add positive opportunities to the city “That is when the final host candidate cities will be and local Aboriginal athletes. making their final bid presentations to the council. Our “Beyond the economic factors, there are great social bid committee will be making our report to the council benefits this event brings to our community. as well.” “The benefits of building bridges between different Halifax, Nova Scotia and London, Ontario also have cultures and to provide opportunities for our young,” bids against Regina. The winning host city for the games said Bear.

COURAGE BEAR

NORMAN ETTAWACAPPO APRIL 2011 Eagle Feather News - Sports 27 Death, injury, 7re hit Ochapowace Good life lessons says Watson

By Barbara Woolsey those players. We gave it our best but, tremendous scrutiny because of violent Hockey is a popular past-time for For Eagle Feather News unfortunately, it was just not meant to be. and reckless hits that are endangering local youth. or the Ochapowace First Nation, But that’s hockey.” the lives of athletes,” says Cheryl “There are not so many things for 2010-2011 has been one tough The injury was the result of a Thomas, team president. kids to do on the reserve,” said Watson, hockey season. check, where Cyr fell awkwardly across “Afive minute penalty and a game who facilitated the building of the In December, the community’s the boards. According to family misconduct for severely injuring a Communiplex as Chief. FPrairie Junior Hockey team, the members who were at the game, it player is not the kind of message you “If the kids are really going to Ochapowace Thunder, lost player Myles happened after the whistle was blown want to send to the rest of the league. participate in sports in our community, Cameron in a fatal car accident. Last and play was finished. We believe the league and the it’s normally hockey and fastball. It’s month, player “It wasn’t a fair hit,” said Wayne Saskatchewan Hockey Association terribly important, because the kids Wyndan Cyr Pinay, Cyr’s grandfather. need to set an example that this kind of realize that if they’re going to be on a was badly “This didn’t happen because he dangerous play should not be hockey team, they have to do well in injured in a threw himself against the boards; it was tolerated.” school. “ playoff game the result of a hit that he was not Now, the First Nation has suffered The Ochapowace council will meet against the expecting because the puck had already another devastating blow to the game next week to discuss the facility. In the Pilot Butte left.” of hockey, losing its ice rink and mean time, the Thunder looks forward Storm – Cyr suffered three cracked community centre to fire only days ago. to next year’s hockey season and a fresh losing the vertebrae, strained neck tendons and The Fred Bear Communiplex was start. game and must spend the next several months in destroyed in only minutes from a fire “Young men are so full of life and ending the a back brace. Doctors have advised him traced to damaged gas line. energy that to lose a teammate, reminds season. to never play hockey again. While the Thunder only plays there our players how fragile life can be,” “It’s The player who delivered the check twice a year, it’s regularly used by the said Watson. MORLEY WATSON been very was given a five-minute penalty plus a Ochapowace Minor Hockey Program, “Having lost Myles and also difficult,” said Morley Watson, team game misconduct. The family is with players participating from the Wyndan having a serious injury, it’s a governor and FSIN Vice-Chief. meeting with a lawyer to decide surrounding First Nations of Kahkewis- good life lesson for our hockey players “We said we could carry on both whether to pursue legal action. tahaw, Cowessess, Sakimay and White to appreciate every day, life, family and times, play on and honour the memory of “Right now, hockey is under Bear. friends in the game of hockey.” 28 Eagle Feather News APRIL 2011