REPRESENTING OFF-RESERVE STATUS & NON-STATUS INDIANS, MÉTIS AND INUIT OF SOUTHERN LABRADOR THE INDIGENOUS OICE V 2017

Mobilizing Change THE DANIELS SYMPOSIUM The rst step toward reconciliation Anish Success Meet Indigenous Entrepreneur Matthew Smith

VOLUME 2 contents

on the cover

Photo: Sarah Decontie from Zibi Anishinabeg dancing at the Daniels Symposium

19 Special Reports The Congress of Aboriginal Peoples speaks with constituents from CREATIVE LEADERS across the country about the importance of the Daniels decision Calling on Canadian and its future impacts for our community. 05 Business to do their part for

reconciliation.

STEERING THE SHIP 10 National Chief Robert Bertrand is building a new Features path forward with his people. 04 WELCOME MESSAGE AN INSTRUMENT FOR Welcome to the latest edition 16 RECONCILIATION of the Indigenous Voice The 20th Anniversary of from National Chief Robert the Report of the Royal Bertrand. Commission on Aboriginal Peoples. ANISH SUCCESS 08 Meet Indigenous RIDING THE RANKS Entrepreneur Matthew Smith. 23 Betty Ann Lavallée, a proud Indigenous warrior. THE DANIELS SYMPOSIUM INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS AND 19 The fi rst step toward HUMAN RIGHTS reconciliation. 25 International Affairs and Human Rights – The Congress of Aboriginal Peoples on the world stage.

THE INDIGENOUS VOICE SUMMER 2017 3 THE INDIGENOUS Bienvenue VOICE à la toute dernière édition du nouveau magazine: "Voix Autochtone" créé par le Congrès des Peuples Autochtones. The Indigenous Voice is the offi cial publication of the Congress Of Aboriginal Peoples. As one Nous sommes heureux de présenter of only fi ve national Aboriginal cette publication au grand public ainsi representative organizations recognized by the Government qu'à la communauté Métis, indiens of Canada, CAP advocates for inscrits/non-inscrits et inuits résidant the rights and interests of Métis en milieu urbain. people, non-status/status Indians Welcome living-off reserve and the Inuit of Cette édition de "Voix Autochtone" Southern Labrador. CAP represents to our latest edition of the Congress of refl ète une nouvelle ère axée sur the interests of its provincial and Aboriginal Peoples’ new magazine – le principe de la réconciliation qui territorial affi liate organizations. The Indigenous Voice. d'ailleurs, prend rapidement de l'essor Published Triannually For: dans la sphère autochtone à l'échelle du Congress Of Aboriginal Peoples We are so very pleased to present pays. De plus, cette dernière touchera 867 St. Laurent Blvd. this magazine to the general public and aux diverses réalités et problématiques Ottawa, ON K1K 3B1 in particular to the Métis, Non-Status / que nos communautés doivent Tel: (613) 747-6022 Status Indians and Inuit peoples living affrontées quotidiennement. Toll Free: 1(888) 997-9927 Fax: (613) 747-8834 off-reserve whom we represent. À l'intérieur de ce magazine, Website: abo-peoples.org This edition of The Indigenous Voice vous trouverez de l'information refl ects this new era of reconciliation concernant l'importante enquête sur Publisher occurring within the Indigenous space les femmes autochtones assassinées Walter Niekamp across Canada and will speak to the et disparues, concernant le jugement Executive Editor Robert Russell many issues facing our communities. Daniels; récemment émis par la Court Editor Inside you will fi nd information Suprême du Canada, concernant les Thomas Pashko about the very important inquiry into histoires personnels des participants Design Specialist Missing and Murdered Indigenous au Symposium "Creative Leaders", Carolyn Beck, B.Des., Beck Designs Women (MMIW), updates to the concernant la tournée "Grass roots" Sales Manager Supreme Court of Canada's decision ainsi qu'une panoplie d'articles John Pashko Daniels v. Canada, stories on our intéressants et provocateurs. Published by: Creative Leaders Symposium and La Voix Autochtone met l'emphase Publishing Inc. Grass Roots Tour and many more sur le changement de dynamiques interesting and provocative articles. à l'intérieur des communautés P.O. Box 165 The Indigenous Voice focuses on the autochtones à travers le Canada. Middle West Pubnico, NS B0W 2M0 changing dynamics of the Indigenous Informez-vous sur les diverses Tel: 902-762-0124 [email protected] communities in Canada. Read about initiatives en cours présentement dans the many initiatives that are happening nos communautés et l'excellent travail All rights reserved. The contents in our community and the great work mené par le Congrès pour représenter of this publication may not be reproduced by any means in being undertaken by the Congress to les intérêts de nos membres. whole or in part, without the prior advocate on behalf of our people. Nous sommes fi ers de vous written consent of the Congress Of We are excited to share this présentez cette publication, riche en Aboriginal Peoples. informative publication with you informations. De plus, nous espérons Published August 2017 and hope you enjoy the content and que vous apprécierez le contenu et will take away new knowledge to que ceci contribuera à votre culture help you on your personal journey of générale et cheminement personnel au reconciliation. sein de cette ère de réconciliation.

Meegwetc, Meegwetc, Chief Robert Bertrand Chief Robert Bertrand

4 THE INDIGENOUS VOICE SUMMER 2017 CREATIVE LEADERS - Calling on Canadian business to do their part for reconciliation

By Rob Russell

ttawa, ON - Speaking during of events like Creative Leaders, the 2017 Creative Leaders identifying a number of areas where Osymposium Dr. Marie Wilson, business can bolster reconciliation. former commissioner of the Truth and As good practice, she says, businesses Reconciliation Commission (TRC), must begin with individual statements called on the business community to of principle for reconciliation. Wilson do its part for reconciliation. Wilson highlighted the following ten areas: made clear that in order to achieve reconciliation between Indigenous and 1. The United Nations Declaration non-Indigenous peoples in Canada, on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples business must play an important role. (UNDRIP) should serve as a Wilson was the keynote speaker framework for reconciliation. for the symposium, which brings 2. , Inuit and Métis people have rights. They have treaty in order to achieve rights which must be respected and Dr. Marie Wilson speaking during the 2017 recognized. Creative Leaders Symposium. reconciliation respectful relationships. between Indigenous 3. Reconciliation is a process of healing relationships, which requires 7. The perspective of Aboriginal and non-Indigenous truth sharing and apologies, as well as Elders and knowledge-keepers commemoration and redress. regarding concepts and practices of peoples in Canada, reconciliation are vital to long-term 4. Reconciliation requires action reconciliation. business must play to address the various impacts on an important role education, language and culture, health 8. The Aboriginal cultural and child welfare, the administration revitalization and the integration of of justice and, most importantly, Indigenous knowledge systems, oral the Indigenous and non-Indigenous economic opportunities and prosperity. histories, laws and protocols are vital business communities together. The to the reconciliation process. annual event focuses primarily on 5. Reconciliation must create a more creating innovative business strategies equitable society and focus on closing 9. Reconciliation requires political to foster better social and economic opportunity gaps. will in order to convene government conditions for Indigenous peoples representatives as well as joint throughout Canada. 6. All Canadians are treaty people leadership and trust building. There Wilson emphasized the importance and share responsibility for mutually has to be investment of resources.

THE INDIGENOUS VOICE SUMMER 2017 5 Speaking during the 2017 Creative Leaders Symposium, left to right: National Chief Bertrand, The Congress's CEO, Jim Devoe, Catherine Debassige of Business Development Canada.

10. Reconciliation as a principle requires sustained public education: we can’t allow ourselves to get tired of hearing the story.

This year was the Congress’ third annual Creative Leaders symposium. The theme “Indigenous Community Economic Development Corporations” provided attendees with insights into the benefits of creating community owned business structures. In particular, it presented people with pathways to begin the process of developing these institutions. Creating these types of organizations will be key for Indigenous communities to become sustainable and independent. This year’s symposium highlighted time for my life many of the benefits of community- based development for both the Indigenous and non-Indigenous business communities. As a result time for my degree of such practices, both groups stand to see increased economic activity, more support for new business Our world-class, accredited programs offer you the flexibility to learn at your own pace, and business processes, increased on a schedule that suits your lifestyle access to services, greater levels of inequity and inclusiveness, conserve heritage and increased general well- being. Many more benefits were highlighted by presenters who came from various areas of the community economic development spectrum. These presenters were consistent in acknowledging that Indigenous business development is key to the go.athabascau.ca success of all Canadians.

6 THE INDIGENOUS VOICE SUMMER 2017 Speaking during the 2017 Creative Leaders Symposium, left: Shannin Metatawabin, CEO, National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association, Top Right: VP, Brenda Zurba, Aski Financial, Bottom Right: CEO, Andy Turbull, Nunacor Development Corporation.

THE INDIGENOUS VOICE SUMMER 2017 7 ANISH SUCCESS

By Nigel Newlove

ost young men don’t picture ASETS delivers skills training the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples, themselves working out programming for Indigenous Peoples to endorse the program. “Many M of their parents’ basement living off reserve. It also provides Indigenous Peoples face daunting shortly after taking a bio-chemistry support and information to employers challenges when trying to join the course; however Mathew Smith is an looking to fi ll positions. The Congress workforce,” says Martin. “ASETS is exception. The 25-year-old Anishnabe of Aboriginal Peoples has been the bridge between job seekers and entrepreneur is the proud owner and delivering employment training employers.” operator of Anish Moon Therapy. The programs to urban and off reserve business provides therapeutic massage Indigenous Peoples since 1999. Many Indigenous services and produces a line of body ASETS helped Smith get Anish care products. Moon off the ground, but he says Peoples face daunting The young entrepreneur is inspired it wasn’t easy. “That fi rst year, fi rst by his clients. “That satisfaction on two years depending on what kind challenges when trying their face that they want to book an of business you’re working long to join the workforce appointment right away, right after, or hours, some of those hours you’re not buying a product and saying I love the seeing any revenue.” Nonetheless, The ASETS program had been slated smell,” says Smith. “I’m planning on Smith persevered. Now, two years for a fi ve-year renewal in 2014-15, but going into acupuncture next year.” after launching, Smith is building due to diffi culties in meeting critical After losing interest in a bio- his clientele and making long-term timelines, the program has been chemistry career, Smith became plans. “Next year a clinic with extended on a yearly basis. The current involved in massage therapy when his three rooms, four or fi ve staff – in agreement expires March 2018, and mother enrolled in a course. Smith fi ve years I’d like the clinic to have Indigenous organizations are expecting completed the 400-hour training osteotherapy, massage, naturopathy some type of announcement prior to course and got a job at a local spa. and acupuncture,” says Smith. “Short- that. After three one-year extensions, But he struggled to stay afl oat term pain, long-term gain.” the future of Aboriginal labour market fi nancially. He needed help. That’s Smith’s early struggles is indicative programming may fi nally be here. when Smith contacted the Congress of the climate facing young Indigenous Meanwhile, Smith is enjoying the of Aboriginal Peoples and discovered peoples. In 2011, the Aboriginal fruits of his hard work. “Working for the Aboriginal Skills and Employment unemployment rate was over twice myself, somewhat deciding my own Training Strategy (ASETS). “Game the national rate (13% vs. 6%.) and schedule is a great feeling.” changer, game changer,” says Smith unemployment rate for Aboriginal Anyone interested in learning while describing the program. “It’s so youth age 20-24 living off-reserve more about the Aboriginal Skills and important, and I think it’s probably was even higher at 22.6%. It’s those Employment Strategy is encouraged more important than funding post- kinds of fi gures that inspire Randy to contact the Congress of Aboriginal secondary.” Martin, Senior Manager of ASETS at Peoples or a provincial affi liate.

8 THE INDIGENOUS VOICE SUMMER 2017 THE INDIGENOUS VOICE SUMMER 2017 9 STEERING THE SHIP By Nigel Newlove

Chief Bertrand speaking at parliament hill to community members during a ceremony to commemorate the Daniels v. Canada decision

A well-dressed young woman Tom Lefebvre,” Bertrand says. “He 2016 when he was elected National hurries the Chief into a dimly- lived up in (the nearby community Chief of the Congress of Aboriginal A lit studio. Seconds later, the of) Davidson. Whenever there was a Peoples (CAP). Since then, he has “on air” light fl ashes red. It’s National meeting or something he would ask made the Supreme Court of Canada’s Aboriginal Day. me to go with him and I’d set up the Daniels v. Canada decision the focus Congress of Aboriginal Peoples chairs. After the meeting was over I’d of his efforts. “The Daniels decision National Chief Robert Bertrand is have to sweep the fl oor and stack the reinforces what I’ve always believed: being shuffl ed from one studio to chairs in the corner.” that off reserve Indigenous Peoples another. Today, reporters want to Those humble beginnings became have the same rights as status Indians,” know about his support for a private the foundation for an eleven-year Bertrand says. “Now we must ensure member’s bill proposing National career as a Member of Parliament. the government recognizes that and Aboriginal Day be made a statutory Bertrand won three different elections provides the same programming and holiday in Canada.“It’s a chance with commanding numbers. He was supports as they do for status Indians.” for Canadians to learn more about an active member, sitting on several Meanwhile back in studio, the “on Indigenous culture,” Chief Bertrand committees and eventually serving as air” light dims and the Chief emerges tells the host. “It’s time Canadians parliamentary secretary to the Minister from the interview. “How was that?” learn about residential schools, treaties of National Defence. But it wasn’t until Bertrand asks the young assistant. and our rich cultures.” Bertrand left Parliament Hill that he “Good,” she replies. “Alright, three It’s not the Chief’s fi rst time in the began unearthing his Indigenous roots more to go,” Bertrand jokes. spotlight. In 1993, Bertrand put his and getting involved in the community. National Chief Robert Bertrand is name on a federal ballot running for the “I discovered both sides of my family one year into his four-year term. He Liberal Party of Canada in the Pontiac- had deep Indigenous roots in the has a clear vision where he hopes Gatineau-Labelle riding of . area,” Bertrand says. “That’s when I CAP will be in three years. “If we can But Bertrand’s interest in politics was got involved in the Native Alliance of start negotiations with the government sparked years before, as a young child Quebec (NAQ) and started advocating regarding Daniels, I think I’ll be able growing up in Fort-Coulonge, QC. for our rights.” to say that the ship has been pointed in “The MP for the area at the time In 2011, Bertrand was elected the right direction and another captain was a very nice gentleman called President of the NAQ and served until can take it further.”

10 THE INDIGENOUS VOICE SUMMER 2017 Chief Bertrand addressing the crowd at a ceremony on Parliament Hill celebrating Daniels v. Canada court decision.

THE INDIGENOUS VOICE SUMMER 2017 11 WE BELIEVE IN Building vital PARTNERSHIPS. relationships with Aboriginal communities 27 ONTARIO FIRST NATIONS. $100 MILLION IN BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES. Resolute Forest Products works with First Nations across Ontario and Quebec to identify employment and economic opportunities, support GardaWorld is Canada’s leading security provider, educational programs, and collaborate on agreements, planning, road protecting people and assets across the country. construction and forest regeneration. Committed to Aboriginal inclusion, we firmly believe that Because we believe in partnerships. through continuous learning, understanding and respect, our best work together is ahead of us.

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12 THE INDIGENOUS VOICE SUMMER 2017 National Inquiry Into MMIWG

The National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) will be examining and reporting on the systemic causes of all forms of violence against Indigenous women and girls in Canada by looking at patterns and underlying factors. They will do this through taking statements in public hearings, private hearings, sharing circles, or through art forms such as songs, poems, and paintings.

Summer & Fall 2017 Schedule:

Location Community Visits (week of) Community Hearings (week of) Smithers, BC July 17th September 25th Winnipeg, MB July 24th October 16th Halifax, NS August 14th October 30th Edmonton, AB September 5th November 6th Yellowknife, NT August 28th November 13th Saskatoon, SK August 7th November 20th Maliotenam, QC August 28th November 27th Thunder Bay, ON September 11th December 4th Rankin Inlet, NU August 14th December 11th Upcoming Expert Hearings: Week of August 21, 2017 Indigenous Laws & Decolonizing Practices/ Perspectives in Winnipeg, MB Week of October 2, 2017 Human Rights, International Law & UNDRIP in Montreal, QC

How Families Can Participate:

If you want to share your story of a lost loved one(s) or your own truth as a survivor of violence with the National Inquiry, you can register by sending your name, phone number, email, and location in one of the following ways:

• By phone toll free at 1-844-348-4119 • By fax at 604-775-5009 • By mail at PO Box 500, Station A – Vancouver BC V6C 2N3 • By mail at profi [email protected] • In-person during one of our community visits before a hearing which will be posted on our website at http://www.mmiwg-ffada.ca

In a weeks’ time, you will receive an initial email or call from one of the health team staff to set up a telephone meeting. After you have shared your truth with the National Inquiry, you will continue to work with the health team on your aftercare needs and support.

If you need to speak to someone immediately please contact the 24/7 toll free support line at: 1-844-413-6649 (available in English, French, Cree, Ojibway & Inuktitut).

THE INDIGENOUS VOICE SUMMER 2017 13 Food Skills for Families