Issue no. 102, August 2019

THE SIGNING WHAT’S NEXT TIMELINE FAQ History was made June 27, 2019 Extensive consultations with How did we get here? From More on the Self-Government when the MNO and Canada signed MNO citizens and communities to Pre-Confederation to this historic Agreement and what happens next. a ground-breaking Métis Self- develop a constitution. Page 14 Agreement. Page 12-13 Page 10 Government Agreement. Page 9

Stronger together Métis Nation of achieves federal recognition of its self-government. More on pages 9 -14

ON JUNE 27, 2019 IN , THE MÉTIS NATION OF ONTARIO, THE MÉTIS NATION OF ALBERTA (MNA), THE MÉTIS NATION - (MN-S) AND THE HONOURABLE SIGNED HISTORIC SELF-GOVERNMENT AGREEMENTS. (back row left to right) Aaron Barner, Senior Executive Officer MNA; Joe Wild, Senior Assistant Deputy Minister, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada; Jason Madden Partner Pape Salter Teillet LL.B; France Picotte, MNO Chair; Sherry Mclennan, MN-S; Marg Friesen, MN-S; Tammy Mah, MN-S and Ryan Carriere, MN-S (front row, left to right) Dan Cardinal, MNA Vice President; Audrey Poitras, MNA President; the Honourable Carolyn Bennett; Margaret Froh, MNO President; Glen McCallum, MN-S President and , MN-S Vice President.

IVÈR: A Métis MNO Community Trapline to youth cultural events and be forever in camp activities Métis hands Page 17 Special Page 18 Section 40025265 Métis Voyageur 2 Issue no. 102, August 2019

The Message from the President Métis Voyageur Canada and the MNO sign historic Self-Government Agreement August 2019 - No. 102

Produced by the Métis Nation of Ontario Communications Branch: Self-determination – our right Madison Burns Mike Fedyk Christianne McPartland as Métis people Melissa Murray Marc St. Germain or over 150 years, Métis in Can- ’s landmark deci- Contributors: ada have been fighting for recog- sion on Métis rights in R v Powley—contin- nition and respect of our inherent ued to advocate for its rights, but these calls Samantha Alkenbrack Audrey Bayliss Métis rights. On June 27, 2019 fell on deaf ears. How fitting that in August Mackayla Beauchamp Canada and the Métis Nation of 2019, Métis leadership and citizens from Natasha Bertrand Ontario (“MNO”) signed a historic Métis It is we, as Métis, that across Ontario will be gathering in Sault Ste. Keith Blanchette Fself-government agreement. In this agree- Marie for our Annual General Assembly to Jacqueline Bouchard will control what we Darlene Braz ment, Canada finally recognizes what the celebrate these enormous achievements of Colleen Brunelle Métis have always known – that the Métis will become, and how the MNO – from the Powley decision to our Liam Buckley communities represented by the MNO have we will govern ourselves new self-government agreement, the MNO Melody Chislett-Morris an inherent and constitutionally protected continues to drive progress on recognition of Jerry Clarke and provide for our Louise Cloutier right to self-determination and self-govern- Métis rights! Kelsey Dick ment. communities. This is This was a story that was repeated over and Colin Doucette The agreement establishes—for the first over again, as numerous petitions advocating Larry J. Ferris true self-determination Donna Grayer time—a path to the full and formal recog- for fair treatment from other Métis commu- Greg Garratt nition of a Métis government in Ontario. – it is the legacy of our nities in Georgian Bay and James Bay, in the Marlene Greenwood Over the coming months, the MNO will be ancestors, and our right Red River and in North Western Saskatch- Alicia Hamilton working with its citizens and communities ewan, were also ignored by Canada. One Nina Henley as Métis people. Layne Hoskins to develop a constitution that will be the Métis community in northwestern Ontario Yvonne Jensen foundation for our Métis government, and was successful in negotiating a “Halfbreed Diane Kilby Canada will be working with the MNO to Adhesion” to Treaty #3 in 1875, which is Garry Laframboise Marilyn Lawson craft federal legislation codifying the com- the only known Métis-specific adhesion to Christa Lemelin mitments made in the agreement. any historic treaty in Canada. However, it TerryLynn Longpre While the hard work is far from over, this was quickly disavowed by Canada, and the Jennifer B. Lord agreement represents a mo- promises it contains have Guy Mandeville Nancy Martel mentous step forward for never been fulfilled. Richard Meilleur the MNO which has been It has always been clear Joanne Meyer working towards the recog- that we, as Métis, cannot Benny Michaud nition of Métis rights and rely on other governments. Lorraine Mountney Joe Paquette self-government in Ontario We have always looked after Jennifer Parkinson for the last 26 years. Since its ourselves and our communi- Kezia Picard creation in 1993, the MNO ties. Other governments have Tim Pile Paul Pirie – its current and past lead- long failed us and ignored us. Ken Simard ership and citizens – have We have seen our education Theresa Stenlund fought for the recognition of and employment levels, so- those inherent rights. Canada cio-economic indicators and ------has now recognized that the health outcomes fall below MNO represents its Métis that of other, non-Indige- Submissions: citizens and communities in nous Canadians. The fact is Marc St.Germain their pursuit of self-govern- that no one knows what our Métis Nation of Ontario ment, and we have agreed on communities need more than Suite 1100 – 66 Slater Street a path forward. we do, and no one will strive Ottawa, ON The story and struggle for harder to provide it. While K1P 5H1 [email protected] recognition of the Métis in we celebrate this momentous Ontario has long and deep achievement, the work is not roots. Métis communities yet done. Through working Publication #: PM40025265 grew and flourished around MNO Founding President Tony Belcourt, MNO President Margaret together to implement this the Upper Great Lakes, as Froh and Past MNO President Gary Lipinski at the June 27, 2019 agreement and create our RECENTLY MOVED OR well as along waterways and signing of the Métis Government Recognition and Self-Government constitution, we will build a MOVING SOON? fur trade routes of what is Agreement in Ottawa. stronger Métis government Don’t miss an issue! Be sure to now Ontario long before that is designed by and for, change your address with the MNO confederation. European fur ent rights, including the right to self-deter- and is accountable to, our Registry and other information traders and explorers had families with First mination and self-government. Métis citizens and communities. from the MNO. Nations women, and over generations, the When Canada began its expansion west- Our Métis government has secured this Call children of these unions came together to ward, Canada did not encounter empty agreement for our citizens and communities 1-855-798-1006 form a new Indigenous people—the Métis. land. Our Métis communities struggled for – the long-sought recognition of our rights, or send an email to Métis does not just mean “mixed.” Métis are survival and recognition in the face of waves and the commitment from Canada to nego- @metisnation.org not just anyone with some Indigenous an- of settlers and the imposition of government tiate full self-government with the MNO. cestry. Métis are the descendants of historic policies. Time and again Métis communi- Through this agreement, we will move for- and distinctive communities of inter-con- ties brought their voices forward. In 1849, ward with Canada as our partner in recon- nected Métis families, with their own shared Métis from Sault Ste. Marie, as well as First ciliation, on a respectful government-to-gov- SUBMISSION POLICY: The Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) en- customs, traditions, and a strong and unique Nations, protested the establishment of cop- ernment basis. And, as it always has been, it courages contributions from MNO citizens collective identity, which grew together be- per mines in Mica Bay, on the shore of Lake will be we, as Métis, that will control what and staff. All submissions are edited to fore Canada became Canada. Our Métis Superior, through forcibly closing down the we will become, and how we will govern conform to the Canadian Press Style Guide identity has always been, and remains, dis- mines. Afterwards, Canada began a treaty ourselves and provide for our communities. as well as for grammar, repetitiousness, tinct from our European or First Nation an- process with First Nations and refused to deal This is true self-determination – it is the leg- spelling and to accurately reflect the official cestors. To this day, we retain our culture and with the Métis. This Métis community— acy of our ancestors, and our right as Métis names and titles of individuals, organiza- tions, bodies and agencies referenced in way of life, and our communities hold inher- which would later become the home of the people. ∞ submissions. The MNO does not accept submissions including editorials and letters to the editor that make partisan political statements. With the exception of letters to the editor and submissions to the family section, all submissions should NOT be written in the 2019 Submission Deadlines first person. The recommended length for a submis- sion is between 400 and 600 words. Sub- NEXT ISSUE: September 1, 2019 missions longer than that may be edited for length. • October 25, 2019 • January 30, 2020 Métis Voyageur Issue no. 102, August 2019 3 PCMNO REPORT PCMNO Appointments: Annual General Meeting of Les Femmes Regions 5 and 6 Otipemisiwak by MNO Staff n Thursday October 11, President Froh also addressed 2018 more than 50 Mé- delegates on Saturday, emphasizing he Provisional Council of the Métis Nation of Ontario tis women from Ontario the importance of breaking down (PCMNO) is very pleased to announce that Roger Rose Owestward to British Columbia at- barriers, building up relationships, will represent Region 5 and Lee Rivet will represent tended the eighth Annual General and reflecting upon what it is we TRegion 6 on the PCMNO. Meeting of Les Femmes Michif stand for. She encouraged citizens The announcement comes after Rose and Rivet, were ap- Otipemisiwak (LMFO)–Women be active in their communities and pointed during a secret ballot vote at the PCMNO meeting of the Métis Nation. The assem- speak out about injustices they’ve on June 1, 2019. bly ran from October 12-14 and witnessed or experienced. “There Roger Rose has served as Chair of the MNO Mattawa Métis held discussions on priority issues are a lot of hard fought victories Council for the past 14 years. Rose has done work with the affecting Métis women. It featured we can’t take for granted,” she ex- Mattawa/Lake Nipissing Regional Consultation Committee. keynote addresses from Minister of plained. “We cannot be compla- Rose and the MNO Mattawa Métis Council also volunteer at Crown-Indigenous Relations Car- cent,” she said. the annual MNO Infinite Reach March Break Camps. olyn Bennett and Métis Nation of MNO citizen Amanda Rheaume Lee Rivet currently sits on the Highland Waters Métis Com- Ontario (MNO) President Marga- moderated a panel discussion on munity Council. Rivet is a registered Veteran with the Métis ret Froh. lesbian, gay bisexual, transgender, Nation of Ontario Veterans’ Council (MNOVC) and has been “We are the women of the Mé- transsexual, queer, and 2-spirit presented with the MNOVC’s Commemorative tis Nation,” stated President Froh. (LGBTQ2S) experiences. The pan- Medal. “We are the keepers of the knowl- el reflected the community activ- On April 2, past Region 5 Councilor Dan Boulard and Region edge, culture, and traditions within ism that President Froh addressed 6 Councilor Tom Thompson Jr. resigned from their position. PCMNO Region 5 Councilor Roger Rose our Nation. It’s really important we in her remarks and fostered a dia- The PCMNO is grateful for Dan and Tom’s service to the MNO take times like this to celebrate and logue among attendees. The panel and wishes them well in their future endeavours. honour that.” began with statements from MNO The resignations began the process to fill the vacancy on the A number of MNO citizens at- citizens Jennifer St. Germain and PCMNO following the MNO Bylaws (“If any vacancy occurs tended the conference and several Gerald Lavallee, who expressed his the PCMNO may appoint as a replacement a citizen of the members of the Provisional Coun- gratitude for the support from the MNO, and that person shall hold office until the next election”). cil of the Métis Nation of Ontario MNO when he felt most alone. The PCMNO announced that MNO citizens wishing to fill (PCMNO) had roles in the event. From Friday morning’s “sashing the position should make their intentions known by submitting PCMNO Chair France Picotte our warriors” campaign against lat- a short letter and current resumé. Applications for the position co-chaired the event while MNO eral violence, to Saturday evening’s were accepted until April 23. Senator Verna Porter-Brunelle led reception honouring Métis Veter- MNO citizens that expressed their interest were reviewed by the opening and closing prayers. ans, it is clear that the Métis wom- PCMNO at their meeting on June 1, in Toronto. The PCMNO MNO Vice-Chair and Spokesper- en are far from passive beings. They would like to acknowledge all candidates that had put forward son for the MNO Women’s Coun- are active leaders in their commu- their names to serve. cil Sharon Cadeau and PCMNO nities, ready and willing to fight for “On behalf of the PCMNO, I want to congratulate Roger Youth Representative Mitch Case their families, for their nation, and and Lee on their appointments. We are very much looking for- led discussions and seminars. for their rights. ward to working with them to better the lives of MNO citizens Cadeau reported on specific Minister Bennett also thanked and communities and know they will be a strong advocates updates to the MNO Women’s the women and women veterans, for MNO citizens in their respective regions,” stated MNO Council policy, including a more which included MNO veterans President Margaret Froh. democratic process in electing the Shelly Claus and June Smart. Rose and Rivet will serve as Regional Councilors until the spokesperson. “This is a huge step As the keynote speakers ac- MNO election in 2020. PCMNO Region 6 Councilor Lee Rivet forward, as the community will knowledged, events such as the now choose the woman to speak Annual General Meeting are im- on their behalf,” she stated. portant as they create a space where Case was invited to present at Métis voices and perspectives can the conference and led a seminar be heard. MNO Secretary-Treasurer visits on Métis beading. He provided an “As Métis women, we never sit overview of Métis beading styles back and let others talk for us, it’s Australia with Northern Ontario and techniques. After his presen- not our way. Our voices matter, tation, “learn-to-bead” starter kits, and kindness matters, and love a project developed by the MNO matters, and care and empathy School of Medicine Youth Council were gifted to at- matters,” said President Froh in tendees by LMFO President Mela- her closing remarks. “And all that submitted by nie Omeniho. makes a tremendous difference.” Tim Pile MNO Secretary Treasurer

t a conference on the oth- er side of the globe, Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Secretary-TreasurerA Tim Pile told at- tendees about the history of Métis in Ontario and the MNO. Pile was part of a delegation from the Northern Ontario School of MNO Secretary-Treasurer Tim Pile (right), with (from left) Ken Medicine (NOSM) that travelled to Jones, a local Boandik elder who works with Flinders University, Australia to participate in the Global Donna Quinn, an Associate lecturer in Aboriginal Studies at Flinders Community Engaged Medical Ed- University, and Jo Beyers, a researcher, public health nutritionist ucation Muster Conference from and registered dietitian in Northern Ontario. Oct. 15-18 in Mount Gambier. Pile is part of the NOSM Indige- nous Reference Group, where he has South Australia and the NOSM tis sash a Métis coffee table book at volunteered on behalf of the MNO. and focused on discussing commu- a gala dinner. “We have a whole bunch of people nity engaged medical education and “I wanted him and everyone else from around the world that know research, Aboriginal health, longitu- to know how much the MNO ap- a lot more about the MNO than dinal learning and social account- preciated the work that he has done, (Left to right) Senator Verna Porter-Brunelle, MNO Chair France they did before,” Pile said, adding ability in healthcare training. and that we have a good number of Picotte, Shirley Debassige, MNO Vice-Chair and Spokesperson for the presentation was well received. During the conference, Pile also Métis doctors from NOSM that are the MNO Women’s Council Sharon Cadeau, Liliane Ethier, Berni The conference is part of a series presented founding Dean and CEO practicing physicians in the north,” Picco, Pearl Gabona, Kelly Camacho, Patricia Taylor, June Smart, hosted by Flinders University in of NOSM Roger Strasser with a Mé- Pile said. Shirley Loubert, Shelly Claus and Suzanne Jackson. Métis Voyageur 4 Issue no. 102, August 2019 Kenora adds Michif to city signage hen arriving in Kenora, Michif will be present on the Har- signs will soon greet you bourtown Centre gateway located in Michif. in the roundabout near Park Street WThe Métis language will join and Second Street South. The new English, French and Ojibwe on the signs are part of a downtown revi- signs, after Provisional Council of talization effort in Kenora. Along the Métis Nation of Ontario (PC- with having Michif on the signs, MNO) Regional 1 Councilor The- Stenlund said the city is now work- resa Stenlund worked closely with ing with Métis in the revitalization the city to make sure Métis presence planning to make sure their presence in Kenora was also showcased. in the city is recognized. “Having Michif on the signs ac- “I was happy to see this progress. knowledges that we are here and It shows the city is willing to include part of the community,” Councilor the Métis. We are here and they are Stenlund said in a recent interview. working with us. It’s an acknowledg- In her work to have Michif added ment, instead of an afterthought.” to the signs, Councilor Stenlund The signs are to be installed this reached out to the city and described spring. Métis traditions, culture and the his- “The City of Kenora is pleased to tory of Ontario Métis, including her work with our Métis Nation of On- own family, which has deep roots tario partners in the development of in the area. the Harbourtown Centre gateway “Our Métis families have lived in signage as well as other key projects this area for a long time. Other levels within our community,” said Kenora of government are finally recogniz- Mayor Dan Reynard. ing us and this initiative welcomes Translations for the signs have us into the community and is a been provided by the MNO Michif first step towards reconciliation,” language speaker group. she said.

MNO President Margaret Froh (right) with Ontario Métis Nation of Ontario President Margaret Froh Premier Doug Ford at the First Ministers Meeting with Métis Nation of Alberta President Audrey being held December 7, 2018 in Montreal. Poitras.

MNO President Pushing Forward on Froh attends First Canada-Métis Nation Ministers Meeting Accord

étis Nation of Ontario (MNO) President submitted by Margaret Froh is attending the First Minis- Joanne Meyer, MNO Chief Operating Officer ters Meeting taking place in Montreal today Mwith other Métis Nation government leaders. A brief NO President Margaret Froh and Métis Nation of Meeting with Senator meeting was held with the Prime Minister, provincial MAlberta President Audrey Poitras catch up during Premiers and Indigenous leaders to raise priorities of the third ministerial meeting under the Canada-Métis rights recognition and strengthening government-to- Nation Accord on Oct. 25. Federal Ministers, led by Yvonne Boyer government relationships. President Froh took the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations Dr. Carolyn It was the MNO’s pleasure to host Canadian Senator (and opportunity to engage Premier Ford as well as federal Bennett and Minister of Indigenous Services Canada MNO citizen) Yvonne Boyer this on April 1, as she took representatives on the importance of ongoing meetings Dr. Jane Philpott, met with leaders of the Métis Na- a quick tour of the office and met with MNO President with the MNO to address key priorities for Métis fam- tion to push ahead on the year two priorities under Margaret Froh. ilies and communities in Ontario. the Accord.

Conestoga College signs national Indigenous Education Protocol submitted by President Jennifer Parkinson. provide the framework for ongoing Melody Chislett-Morris, The national protocol has been efforts to better serve the needs of MNO Education Officer Education signed by 60 colleges and institu- Indigenous peoples,” said Conestoga and Training tions across Canada, after it was de- College President John Tibbits dur- veloped and approved by Colleges ing his remarks. itizens of the Métis Nation and Institutes Canada in September “The protocol was developed by of Ontario (MNO) celebrat- 2014. Its goal is to improve educa- Colleges and Institutes Canada fol- ed with Conestoga College tion for Métis, First Nations and lowing consultations with partners Con Oct. 31, when the school signed Inuit people and build relationships and stakeholders in the First Na- the national Indigenous Education with Indigenous communities. tions, Métis, and Inuit communi- Protocol. “This is a special day for Con- ties. It includes seven guiding prin- More than 40 people attended the estoga as we come together for the ciples to address Indigenous peoples MNO Vice-Chair Sharron Cadeau, Conestoga College Indigenous signing from Conestoga College and signing of the Indigenous protocol. learning needs and support self- Studies Coordinator Andrew Judge and MNO Grand River Métis surrounding areas, including MNO This will serve as an affirmation of determination and socio-economic Council President Jennifer Parkinson celebrate Conestoga College’s Vice-Chair Sharon Cadeau and the college’s continued commit- development of Indigenous com- historic signing of the national Indigenous Education Protocol on MNO Grand River Métis Council ment to Indigenous education and munities,” he added. Oct. 31. Métis Voyageur Issue no. 102, August 2019 5 MNO signs on to Early Learning and Child Care Accord aking a step toward improv- port and greater services. This Ac- ing the lives of Métis fami- cord recognizes the important role lies and children, the Métis of Metis governments in designing, TNation of Ontario (MNO) signed developing and delivering programs the historic Canada-Métis Nation based on the needs and realities of Early Learning and Child Care Ac- Métis families and communities,” cord on March 6. stated MNO President Froh. The Accord, co-developed with MNO acknowledges an invest- the federal government, makes an ment of more than $45 million investment in the MNO to design over the next 10 years and will be and deliver early learning and child engaging with Métis families and care services and programs for On- communities in Ontario to move tario Métis children. It also allows this forward. the MNO to determine its own ear- Early learning and child care was ly learning and child care priorities, identified as a priority for Canada and to develop new and culturally and the Métis Nation in the Cana- relevant programs and services for da-Métis Nation Accord, signed in Métis families and children. 2017. In 2018, the MNO signed MNO President Margaret Froh; the Métis Nation Skills and Em- Member of Parliament Chandra ployment Accord and the Canada- Arya, representing Canada; as well as Métis Nation Housing Sub-Accord the Métis National Council (MNC) to address those priority areas. Early governing member presidents signed learning and child care is also a key the Accord in Ottawa. subject matter for negotiations Métis Nation-Saskatchewan President Glen McCallum, MNO President Margaret Froh, Métis Nation “Today is a great day for our Mé- under the MNO-Canada-Ontario of Alberta President Audrey Poitras, Métis Nation British Columbia President Clara Morin-Dal Col, MP tis families and children, who have Framework Agreement. Chandra Arya, and Manitoba Metis Federation President David Chartrand singed the Canada-Métis been vocal about needing more sup- Nation Early Learning and Child Care Accord on March 6, in Ottawa.

2019 Federal budget invests in Métis priorities

he Métis Nation of Ontario invest $30 million to recognize (MNO) welcomes invest- the contributions made by Mé- ments promised in the 2019 tis veterans during the Second Tfederal budget that will provide World War and to commemo- greater support to Métis education, rate the sacrifices and triumphs language and culture, and economic of all Métis veterans development, as well as long awaited MNO applauds Indigenous recognition of Second World War “This kind of investment — along Métis veterans. with the commitments made over The investments focus on advanc- the past year in areas like housing, Languages Act ing reconciliation with Indigenous early learning and child care, em- people to help close the gap between ployment and skills training — will he Métis Nation of Ontario it flourish within our communities to develop Michif educational re- Indigenous and non-Indigenous Ca- help us make real progress in im- (MNO) applauds new leg- and families here in Ontario,” she sources and promote, protect and nadians. Métis-specific investments proving socio-economic outcomes islation, which will help it added. revitalize Michif for the benefit include: for Métis and advance reconcilia- Tprotect its language for generations Language and culture are among of future generations. A MNO tion between Canada and the Métis to come. the priorities set out in the MNO language workshop/engagement • $362 million was promised Nation. These commitments from On Feb. 5, Canada introduced Statement of Prime Purpose, the session is planned in the first half over 10 years to support a Métis Canada to advance reconciliation the Indigenous Languages Act to MNO-Canada-Ontario Frame- of 2019 for community represen- Nation-led post-secondary will change the lives of Métis chil- reclaim, revitalize, strengthen and work Agreement for Advancing tatives and knowledge holders to education strategy to focus on dren, families and communities maintain Indigenous languag- Reconciliation and the Cana- discuss language protection and financial assistance for Métis across Ontario,” said MNO Pres- es across the country, including da-Métis Nation Accord which revitalization initiatives. students ident Margaret Froh. “We will Michif. MNO was signatory to in 2017. MNO Chair and Michif speaker • To kick start the implementa- continue to work with the federal The legislation will provide the The MNO was involved in the France Picotte said the new legis- tion of the Indigenous Languag- government to realize our shared mechanisms to recognize Indige- lation will strengthen the MNO’s es Act, $333.7 million will be vision of a true renewed relation- nous language related rights under efforts to preserve and promote our invested over the next five years ship, to move forward in the spirit Section 35 of the Constitution; language. to support Indigenous language of cooperation and partnership, for support the reclamation, revital- “This Act will set the stage for revitalization projects, including the benefit of the entire country.” ization, strengthening and main- This legislation the work that the MNO will be Michif The signing of the 2017 Cana- tenance of Indigenous languages is worth celebrating and able to do. Language and culture go • Starting in 2019-2020, $50 da-Métis Nation Accord set up a in Canada; support and promote hand-in-hand, and it’s important to million will be invested over permanent bilateral process that Indigenous languages; provide is an excellent example keep our stories alive in our own five years to enrich the funding marked the beginning of a new long-term sustainable funding to of what happens when language,” Picotte said. “Michif is for Métis Capital Corporations. relationship based on recognition, reach these goals; and establish an we engage with Canada an important part of Ontario Métis The funds will go to support rights and respect. The 2019 Bud- office of the commissioner of In- history and culture, and the MNO the start-up, development and get is informed by this new rela- digenous languages. through a government- is dedicated to its preservation and expansion of small and medi- tionship and builds on significant “This legislation is worth cele- to-government process. promotion.” um-sized Métis enterprises investments already made to support brating and is an excellent example The legislation addresses sever- • An additional $100 million Métis Nation governing members of what happens when we engage al Calls to Action from the Truth will be available to establish an in advancing priority policy areas with Canada through a govern- and Reconciliation Commission of Indigenous Growth Fund to en- such as housing, skills and training, ment-to-government process” stat- Canada, incorporates elements of courage investments in Indige- early learning and child care, and ed MNO President Margaret Froh. legislation’s co-development, and a the United Nations Declaration on nous-led businesses by Indige- governance. “I look forward to the full im- large MNO delegation attended a the Rights of Indigenous Peoples nous financial bodies, including plementation of the Indigenous session in Toronto on July 12, 2018 and comes during the UNESCO Métis Capital Corporations Languages Act, seeing the recog- focused on Ontario Michif. declared International Year of In- • Budget 2019 also proposed to nition of Michif grow and watching The MNO has been working digenous Languages. Métis Voyageur 6 Issue no. 102, August 2019

Métis Infinity Investments acquires Red Lake Plumbing and Heating

MNO President Margaret Froh (centre) participates in a panel in Ottawa discussing Persons Day on Oct. 18. She was one of three participants, including Penny Collenette (left), Adjunct Professor at red lake, ont. (June 18, 2019) – Nations communities. As a result the University of Ottawa, and Shari Graydon (right), Founder of Informed Opinions. Métis Infinity Investments (MII) of this trend, Red Lake Plumbing has realized some early success since and Heating is committed to build- it has acquired Red Lake Plumbing ing a representative workforce with and Heating Inc., the area’s largest a focus on growing its Indigenous residential, commercial and indus- staffing. Persons court case opened trial plumbing and heating compa- Over the past year, Red Lake ny. The acquisition, through a di- Plumbing and Heating has hired door for women to participate rect sale by the previous owner, was new Métis workers already, and is approved by the Board of Directors seeking to add more to its training of MII in late 2018 and officially roster. This was an immediate pri- in political life closed on January 2, 2019. ority given MII’s focus on building Red Lake Plumbing and Heating the increasing employment for Mé- étis Nation of Ontario (MNO) President clude women in the legal definition of “persons” and has established itself as the market tis citizens. Margaret Froh marked Persons Day on that women’s equality is a matter of justice. The au- leader in providing residential and “There is so much potential in Oct. 18, 2018 by participating in a panel dience was also reminded that achieving a woman’s commercial customer service. That supporting Indigenous apprentices Mdiscussion at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa. right to vote didn’t end in 1929 with the Persons standard will not only be kept, but who are willing to grow with us Persons Day is the annual celebration of Oct. 18, Case. It wasn’t until 1960 that Indigenous Canadians exceeded, according to Mr. Lind- and obtain professional certifica- 1929, when the historic decision to include women were granted the right to vote federally and some say Boyd, Chairperson of Red Lake tion in specialized trades,” said Mr. in the definition of “persons” was handed down by Indigenous Canadians were still excluded from some Plumbing and Heating and board Boyd. “Red Lake Plumbing and the country’s highest court of appeal. The decision provincial votes until 1969. member for Métis Infinity Invest- Heating is eager to invest in train- gave women the right to be appointed to the Sen- The event was hosted by Informed Opinions and ments. ing and education opportunities ate and allowed women to participate in public and Famous 5 Ottawa, which hosts events honouring “In assessing this opportuni- for our workforce of the future, as political life. prominent women who lead. The foundation is named ty, we not only our employees are a President Froh was joined by Penny Collenette, after the group of women who initially launched the focused on the “There is so key success measure Adjunct Professor at the University of Ottawa, and Persons Case and became known as the Famous Five bottom line and for our business.” Shari Graydon, Founder of Informed Opinions. - Emily Murphy, Nellie McClung, Louise McKinney, return on invest- much potential Red Lake has a The panel focused on the historic decision to in- Irene Parlby and Henrietta Muir Edwards. ment, but to con- in supporting large Indigenous tinually improve population. Métis on the customer Indigenous people account for service experience apprentices.” ten per cent of the and quality of overall population. MNO President Froh addresses work that has al- Métis business in ways been expected of Red Lake northwestern Ontario has his- Daughters of the Vote delegates Plumbing and Heating,” said Mr. torically focused on the natural Boyd, who has extensive experience resource development and pro- peaking of her own personal journey into politics, “Leadership really is about service. The people will in the industry with his long tenure viding value-added services to the SMétis Nation of Ontario President Margaret Froh decide, but if I can bring some skills and knowledge at Union Gas. industry. This will continue under addressed Daughters of the Vote delegates during an and assist that’s what I wanted to do and that’s why I Red Lake Plumbing and Heating the new Red Lake Plumbing and Indigenous Women in Politics panel on April 1. ran,” said President Froh. was envisioned to be the preferred Heating. According to Mr. Scott At Equal Voice’s Daughters of the Vote event, young “For me it’s all about the future. That means doing supplier of plumbing and heating Patles-Richardson, Chief Executive women ages 18 to 23, from across the country apply what I can to make sure the opportunities are there services in the Red Lake District Officer of MII and Board member to be one of 338 delegates, representing every riding for our young people and the generations that are and northern communities. They for Red Lake Plumbing and Heat- in Canada, to take their respective Member of Parlia- coming to really be whatever it is that they want to provide a “one-stop” plumbing, ing, there is great potential in the ment’s seat at the House of Commons. be, to have healthy families and really vibrant com- heating, ventilation and air con- opportunity to serve residential Almost 50 of those delegates attended the Daughters munities where you feel nothing but pride about who ditioning solutions. Red Lake and commercial customers in the of the Vote Indigenous Forum where President Froh you are as Métis.” Plumbing and Heating aims to community directly. fielded questions. She appeared alongside Gail Gal- President Froh encouraged the women in atten- achieve their goals by providing a “We also want to focus on being lagher, a First Nations Cree woman from Frog Lake dance to get involved, have hope for the future and high level of service and trust to a strong part of the community of First Nation in Alberta, Aluki Kotierk, President of to include their identity in all that they do. our customers through honesty, in- Red Lake. Many Métis and First Nunavut Tunngavik Inc., and Gabrielle Fayant, from “Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do some- tegrity and professionalism. They Nation citizens call Red Lake their Fishing Lake Métis Settlement in Alberta, who began thing. Even if you are not reflected in those spaces value safety, teamwork, and respect home. They want to be able to de- an initiative called Assembly of Seven Generations. and institutions, your voice is important.” as the essence of their business. pend on a company that reflects Throughout the transition to their priorities and their values. new ownership, new customers That’s what makes this develop- and sales revenue for Red Lake ment quite unique and exciting for Plumbing and Heating has been us,” said Patles-Richardson. trending to near record levels. This Job advertisements have been is a welcome measure of success for sent to Métis Councils and First the new Board and for Métis Infin- Nation organizations around the ity Investments. region in an effort to promote em- MII also hopes to use their busi- ployment and apprenticeship op- ness networks to expand to new ar- portunities with Red Lake Plumb- eas of opportunity in the natural ing and Heating. This will continue resource sector including develop- throughout the summer. ment across the region and in First

Métis Infinity Investments (MII) is the economic and business arm of the Métis Nation of Ontario. Established in 2015, MII was created as a direct result of the Métis Nation of Ontario’s Prosperity and Self-Sufficiency Law, reorganizing all of the MNO’s economic development activities through one organization. MII also holds business interests in renewable energy, construction, equipment rental, mining transportation, security and mining camps operations. MNO President Margaret Froh answers questions during an Indigenous Women in Politics panel at Equal Voice’s Daughters of the Vote event, held in Ottawa on April 1. Métis Voyageur Issue no. 102, August 2019 7 NATION Métis veteran Alex Boucher turns 106 submitted by Greg Garratt Secretary Treasurer MNO Veterans’ Council

étis Nation of Ontario (MNO) veteran Alex Boucher celebrated his 106th birthday surrounded Mby friends, family and the MNO Veterans’ Council, putting a well-deserved smile on his face. On Jan. 26, veterans from as far away as Windsor, Ont. attended the celebration at his home in Britt, Ontario. During the Second World War, Boucher was part of the Medical Corps and trained new recruits in both battlefield medical procedures and on the rifle range. Boucher is the oldest Métis veteran in Canada and one of the oldest Indigenous veterans in the country. He was given a Hudson Bay Company fleece throw and knitted socks from the Veterans’ Council and was presented with letters of recognition from Queen Elizabeth and Canada’s Governor General. MNO President Margaret Froh also attended the celebration and asked all MNO citizens to send Boucher well wishes that will be shared with him and his family. Dozens of birthday wishes came in, wishing (left to right) MNO President Margaret Froh, MNO Veterans’ Council President Joe Paquette, Chair Brian Black, Rob Baskey, Boucher well and thanking him for his Women’s Representative Shelly Claus, Paul Pirie, and Secretary-Treasurer Greg Garratt at the 106th birthday of Métis veteran service. ∞ Alex Boucher (front).

Indigenous child and family service legislation egislation co-developed greater risk of adverse health out- with Métis Nation leaders comes, violence and incarceration, to reduce the number of and living in poverty. LIndigenous children in foster care The Bill outlines factors to be was introduced in Parliament on considered when determining the Representatives from MNO meet with Industry partners on March 20. Feb. 28. best interests of an Indigenous Bill C-92: An Act respecting child, including their cultural, First Nations, Inuit and Métis linguistic, religious and spiritual Children, Youth and Families was upbringing and the importance of introduced by Indigenous Services the community and Indigenous Minister Seamus O’Regan. group they belong to. It also seeks Métis & Mining: The legislation aims to support to preserve the child’s connection Indigenous families to raise their to family, community and culture. A collaborative forum with Industry children within their homelands Indigenous Services engaged and nations, to increase efforts to with national, regional and com- his year’s Collaborative collectively make Ontario a better to the importance of sustainable prevent child apprehension when munity organizations throughout Forum with Industry place. [Through our actions], we action, so that the land, integral possible and safe, and affirms -In 2018 to develop the proposed leg- was held in downtown can build a relationship that offers to Métis identity and culture, is digenous peoples’ right to exercise islation. Beginning with the Jan- TToronto on March 20, bringing opportunity, prosperity and en- protected. jurisdiction over child and family uary 2018 Emergency Meeting together Métis Nation of Ontar- sure that our rich culture and way Proponents from Detour Gold services. on Indigenous Child and Family io’s (MNO) industry partners for of life is respected and protected.” and Avalon gave presentations “On behalf of the Métis Nation Services, more than 65 different a daylong session of presentations Presentations covered historical in the afternoon, speaking to of Ontario, we want to express sessions were held. and discussions. Among those in and contemporary perspectives of sustainable project developments our support and appreciation for “With the introduction of Bill attendance were members of the the Métis in Ontario. Participants and to their commitment to the work of the former and cur- C-92 today, we mark an historic Provisional Council of the Métis reviewed the development of work alongside local Indigenous rent Ministers of Indigenous Ser- turning point for First Nations, In- Nation of Ontario (PCMNO), Métis rights in Ontario, as well as communities. vices, Jane Philpott and Seamus uit, and Métis children and fami- Community Council Presidents, heard from Know History Direc- Thanks to these relationships, O’Regan, and the Government of lies. Bill C-92 will finally put in Captains of the Hunt, and pro- tor Ryan Shackleton about Métis the MNO has achieved great Canada for moving this important law what Indigenous peoples across ponents and leaders representing stories and history, MNO Lands success over the last few years – legislation forward,” stated Métis this country have been asking of mining and energy sectors. Resources and Consultation including the establishment of Nation of Ontario President Mar- governments for decades: that their Welcoming this year’s attend- Manager Linda Norheim on the four Impact Benefit Agreements, garet Froh. “This legislation will be inherent jurisdiction over child and ees, MNO President Margaret ‘duty to consult’ and its processes, the first of which was signed with incredibly important for our Métis family services be affirmed so that Froh recognized the value of and MNO Associate Director of Detour Gold in 2012. families, communities and for our they can decide what is best for building relationships with indus- Education Brian Tucker on Métis The MNO is committed to future generations.” their children, their families, and try proponents. in mining. enhancing its relationships with In Canada more than 52 per their communities. The overrepre- “By working together to The forum provided an excel- proponents to address the many cent of children in foster care are sentation of Indigenous children in build relationships and a greater lent opportunity for attendees priorities of Ontario Métis fami- Indigenous, while only accounting foster care in this country is a cri- awareness of the realities and to showcase accomplishments, lies and communities. ∞ for seven per cent of the children. sis, and we cannot sit idly by,” said interests of our Métis Citizens, strengthen relationships through Indigenous children are also at Minister O’Regan. ∞ families and communities we can networking, and give recognition Métis Voyageur 8 Issue no. 102, August 2019

MNO meets with Minister Rickford at PDAC

Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and Minister of Métis gathered in Thunder Bay on Nov. 24-25 to create the Two-Spirit Métis Circle: (back row left to right) Energy, Mines, Northern Development, met with MNO Mineral Kelly McCallum, Gerald Lavallee, Todd Ross, MNO President Margaret Froh, Tera Beaulieu, MNO Chief Development Advisor Erin Van Breda, PCMNO Region 3 Councilor Strategic Officer Jennifer St. Germain.(front row, left to right) Micki Belcourt, Bobby Jay Aubin, Bekki Marcel LaFrance, PCMNO Region 4 Councilor Ernest Gatien, PCMNO Wilson, Ron LePage, Benny Michaud, Kate Stewart and Rihkee Strap. Region 2 Councilor Cam Burgess and MNO Mineral Development Coordinator and Region 3 Captain of the Hunt Andy Lefebvre at the 2019 Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) MNO hosts first-ever Métis Convention. This year’s convention took place March 3 to 6. 2SLGBTQI+ gathering itting in a circle, in Thunder support the community. Bay, about a dozen Métis peo- “I knew that I wanted to be part ple discussed how to make life of the group right away. I was very Sbetter for generations of two-spirit, excited that the MNO was moving lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, forward with this sort of initiative,” queer, and intersex Métis to come. I knew that I wanted said Ron LePage, Councilor with The weekend gathering was more to be part of the group the MNO Georgian Bay Métis than two years in the making. Council. “It’s just something that I At the Métis Nation of Ontario right away. I was very wanted to be part of - to share my (MNO) Annual General Assembly excited that the MNO story and my experiences and build in 2016, Benny Michaud, President was moving forward on the work of the circle.” of the MNO Ottawa Region Métis That circle became like a family. Council, and Tera Beaulieu, Presi- with this sort of “We accomplished what we set dent of the MNO Toronto and York initiative... out to do and it was just fantastic: Region Métis Council, moved and the laughter, the camaraderie and seconded a motion that the MNO even the tears that were shed. The establish a provincial working group sharing was phenomenal.” comprised of Métis people to as- For Bobby Jay Aubin, from Sud- sist in developing two-spirit and egies and programs which account bury, the gathering felt like an im- LGBTQI+ cultural and wellness for our communities’ unique needs.” portant milestone. programming, the identification Throughout the weekend, partic- “It’s the first time any Métis com- and advocacy for two-spirit and ipants discussed what it means to munity has ever taken on this en- LGBTQI+ rights and consider the be two-spirit, about representation deavour and it feels great. Hopefully Métis involvement in establishment of an MNO provin- within the MNO, creation of re- other Métis communities through- cial representative body. sources, an education strategy, cre- out Canada will take ownership and A call for interest in the work- ating Métis safe spaces to share per- create spaces like this,” Aubin said. the First World War ing group went out the following sonal stories, the group’s goals and “It’s been long in coming and I’m December. began to establish a list of two-spirit honoured to be part of the journey.” shared in Waterloo Those who answered that call now Métis elders and knowledge keepers. One of the group’s many func- form the Two-Spirit Métis Circle - Michaud explained that the term tions will be to act as a support sys- submitted by from Waterloo Region high schools A collective of 2SLGBTQI+ Métis two-spirit came about in the early tem for 2SLGBTQI+ Métis, so that Guy Mandeville attended the event, which featured that will start to implement the vi- 90s during a meeting of First Na- young people can look to the group MNO Veterans’ Council Senator a number of stations about various sion and goals that were inspired by tion, Métis and Inuit members of and the nation and see that support. aspects of the Great War. The edu- its first meeting, held Nov. 24-25. the queer community in Winnipeg. “They see that it’s OK to be gay étis Nation of Ontario cational program also included ar- “Two-spirit people have always “It is an English representation and it’s OK to be two-spirit and M(MNO) Veterans’ Council tifacts and paraphernalia, a military been an integral part of Métis of the many terms in our languages there’s a network of people that they Senator Guy Mandeville, CD, fashion show of the different na- communities,” said Michaud. “It that describe who we are. The term I can come to and be part of this over- standing between two Great War tions, equipment demonstrations was only after Christianity became use is ayahkwew, which means ‘not all family,” said Todd Ross, Chair of re-enactors, participated in Water- and information about the home entrenched in many of our com- really a woman’ in Michif. It best the MNO Toronto and York Region loo Region Museum’s Great War front and role of women. munities that the gifts and roles of embodies the way I understand my Métis Council. “Although we came Education Days on Oct. 1-2, 2018. At his station, Senator Man- two-spirit people were seen to be gender,” Michaud said. together as two-spirt individuals, On Oct. 1-2, Senator Guy Man- deville fielded many questions negative in any sense.” The group also started to de- we are coming away as a two-spirit deville, shared the history of First about veterans of the first war and “The purpose of this gathering was velop a sash, and made plans for family of Métis and it’s only going World War Métis soldiers in the modern-day soldiers. to bring two-spirit folks from across creating an online community for to get better.” historical church building of Doon This was the second time MNO Ontario together to discuss how 2SLGBTQI+ people and allies in- Keep up to date with the Heritage Village at the Waterloo representatives participated in the MNO can support the two-spirit terested in making recommenda- Two-Spirit Métis Circle, by joining Region Museum. event. ∞ community and better fund strat- tions to the MNO on how to better their Facebook group. ∞ Approximately 900 students

Ways of Knowing Symposium at uOttawa étis youth, academics, the historical and contemporary and Reconciliation Commission were explored, including: the Social Sciences and Humanities knowledge holders and conversations of Métis in Canada. of Canada called on governments, Research Council of Canada to ex- Métis Nation of Ontar- This time, with youth, academ- educational and religious institu- • Supporting Indigenous talent amine as it establishes the national Mio (MNO) staff gathered in Ottawa ics and knowledge holders working tions, civil society groups and all and research careers research program to advance the to further the conversation around together in small groups, the sym- Canadians to advance reconcilia- • Engaging Indigenous knowl- understanding of reconciliation. ∞ Métis research and ways of knowing. posium was focused on answering tion. One priority identified by the edge Held on Feb. 23-24, the 2019 key questions to provide practical federal government was the need for • Mobilizing knowledge and Ways of Knowing Symposium strategies and ways to change the a national dialogue to co-develop partnerships for reconciliation aimed to further the discussions system, so that Métis people are an interdisciplinary, Indigenous re- • Fostering mutually respectful and build on the knowledge gen- supported, encouraged to complete search and research training model relationships erated during a similar event held Métis research and encouraged to that contributes to reconciliation in April 2018. There, participants partner with the broader research between Indigenous and non-In- Using information gathered at talked about Métis-centred research community. digenous peoples. the event, the MNO is preparing and lived experiences that illuminate The work comes after the Truth During the event, several themes a report with recommendations for Métis Voyageur Issue no. 102, August 2019 9

On June 27, 2019 in Ottawa, the Métis Nation of Ontario, the Métis Nation of Alberta, the Métis Nation - Saskatchewan and the Honourable Carolyn Bennett signed historic self- government agreements. (back row left to right) Joe Wild, Senior Assistant Deputy Minister, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada; Jason Madden Partner Pape Salter Teillet LL.B; France Picotte, MNO Chair; Sherry Mclennan, MN-S; Marg Friesen, MN-S; and Tammy Mah, MN-S (front row, left to right) Dan Cardinal, MNA Vice President; Audrey Poitras, MNA President; the Honourable Carolyn Bennett; Margaret Froh, MNO President; Glen McCallum. Métis Nation of Ontario achieves federal recognition of its self-government June 27, 2019 (Ottawa) -- In a special cer- MNO President Froh. emony held near Parliament Hill, history President Froh added, “From our pursuit was made with the Métis Nation of Ontario of Métis rights all the way to the Supreme (“MNO”) and the Court of Canada in R. v. Powley in 2003 to signing a ground-breaking Métis Govern- Our journey to the passage of the MNO Act by the Ontario ment Recognition and Self-Government legislature in 2015, our citizens and commu- Agreement (“Agreement”) that sets a new get here has not nities have always been united in wanting government-to-government relationship to protect and preserve our unique history, between Canada and Ontario Métis. been easy, but we culture and identity for generations to come. MNO President Margaret Froh, the Pro- stayed strong and With this agreement, we have secured a way visional Council of the Métis Nation of On- forward to do just that.” tario and the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, focused on where President Froh specifically acknowledged Canada’s Minister of Crown-Indigenous we wanted to go the work and efforts of Métis citizens and Relations, signed the Agreement. They were leadership at the local and regional levels for also joined by other Métis leaders, youth and and that the MNO being the backbone of the MNO’s self-gov- Elders from Ontario, Saskatchewan and Al- ernment as well as the Provisional Council berta with the Métis Nation of Alberta and is grounded on and the MNO’s negotiating team. She also Métis Nation-Saskatchewan signing similar Métis rights and acknowledged former MNO Presidents agreements. These are the first Métis self-gov- Tony Belcourt and Gary Lipinski for their ernment agreements in Canada. self-government.” unwavering commitment to Métis rights and With us in spirit... The Agreement provides the MNO with self-government. “This has been a team effort If you look carefully at the photo above long-sought-after federal recognition of its from beginning to end,” said Froh. you will see some very special items. self-government by immediately recognizing These next steps include: the development “Ontario Métis working together is what The Métis sash and pin are the ones that the Métis communities represented by and ratification of a constitution through a the MNO has always been about over the that Steve Powley was wearing at the the MNO have the right of self-government. province-wide referendum; the negotiation of last 26 years. Our journey to get here has not Supreme Court of Canada when he won This upfront rights recognition is unique fiscal and intergovernmental implementation been easy, but we stayed strong and focused the landmark Métis rights case that bears among self-government agreements that agreements; the development of a transition on where we wanted to go and that the MNO his name. Steve gave these items to for- Canada has negotiated with other Indige- plan; and the passage of federal implemen- is grounded on Métis rights and self-govern- mer PCMNO Region 4 Councilor Brent nous communities. tation legislation. ment,” reflected MNO Chair France Picotte. McHale. The Agreement also recognizes Métis “This self-government agreement is a tes- Picotte concluded, “While today we cel- The infinity flag was the one that jurisdiction and law-making power in the tament to the strength and determination of ebrate, our work is far from over. We must draped the casket at Steve’s funeral when core self-government areas such as citizen- the MNO’s citizens and communities. From once again come together to develop a con- he passed in 2004. Brenda Powley gave ship, leadership selection and internal oper- the MNO’s Statement of Prime Purpose that stitution that is anchored on Métis rights to the flag to Mr. McHale after the funeral. ations, and sets out next steps for the MNO was first adopted in 1993, the recognition solidify our self-government for future gen- PCMNO Youth Representative Mitch to transition from its current corporate form of Métis rights and self-government here in erations. This next step is now rightfully in Case brought these special items to the to an Indigenous government recognized in Ontario has been fundamental to the MNO’s our hands and it will be up to all of us here June 27th signing. Canadian law. purpose, decision-making and successes,” said in Ontario to keep moving this forward.” ∞ Métis Voyageur 10 Issue no. 102, August 2019

SELF-GOVERNMENT AGREEMENT

Frequently Asked Questions On June 27th, 2019, the Métis Nation of Ontario and the Government of Canada signed the MNO-Canada Métis Government Recognition and Self-Government Agreement (the “Self-Government Agreement”). These FAQs provide more information on the Self-Government Agreement and what happens next: 1 3 5 7

Why is the Self-Government How will I be consulted and The Self-Government Agreement Who will be the Citizens of the Agreement significant? engaged on the Self-Government recognizes Métis law-making future Métis Government? Agreement and the Constitution power over citizenship, As of the signing of the Self-Government development for the future Métis leadership selection, and internal The Self-Government Agreement provides Agreement, Canada—for the first time—rec- Government? governance. What about other that all Electors will become automatic cit- ognized that the Métis communities repre- areas like health, culture, and izens of the new Métis Government on the sented by the MNO hold the inherent right The MNO is beginning to plan an extensive, child and family services? Self-Government Implementation Date. to self- government, and that the MNO is province wide consultation, engagement, This is because Electors are Citizens of the authorized to implement that right on behalf and education on the Self-Government MNO who have been verified as meeting all of these communities. This kind of imme- Agreement and the development of a con- The Self-Government Agreement recognizes of the MNO’s current citizenship criteria. diate recognition is unique among self-gov- stitution for the future Métis Government. the future Métis Government’s law-making MNO Citizens who are not Electors due ernment agreements that The constitution will be the power related to certain “core” areas: citi- to missing or incomplete documentation, Canada has negotiated foundation for the new Métis zenship, leadership selection, and internal will have to apply through the Métis Gov- with Indigenous nations. “The MNO Government. In order for the governance. The Self-Government Agree- ernment’s new registration process and meet It is a momentous step for- has been future Métis Government to be ment also provides for further negotiations those requirements in order to obtain citi- ward for the MNO. The advocating for authentic and accountable, its that could enable the Métis Government to zenship in the Métis Government. MNO has been advocat- constitution must reflect the assume jurisdiction over a long list of mat- ing for this recognition this recognition values, principles, and voices ters affecting our citizens and communities, since its creation 26 years since its creation of the MNO’s citizens and including rights, land, and social welfare. It “The very first step ago, as did Métis through- 26 years ago, communities. This constitu- will be for the Métis Government to decide in this process will be out Ontario long before as did Métis tion is entirely in our hands what areas to pursue and when. MNO was established. to develop. All MNO citizens extensive consultation The Self-Government throughout and communities throughout and engagement Agreement also provides Ontario long Ontario can be a part of this with citizens and a clear path for the MNO before MNO was process as well there will be to transform into a recog- opportunities for future MNO “The communities on the nized public Indigenous established.“ citizens to be informed and Self-Government Self-Government government. After this provide input. Agreement and the transition, the new Métis Government will To ensure that every community and Agreement does not have law-making powers in the areas of cit- citizen has a meaningful opportunity be to extinguish, limit, or development of a izenship, leadership selection, and internal heard in this process, the MNO is work- constitution.” operations. Through the Self-Government ing with the MNO’s regional and com- modify any Métis Agreement, these steps are “locked in” and munity-level leadership to ensure that the rights whatsoever.” cannot be swept away by changing political consultation process will be responsive to winds or circumstances. specific circumstances and concerns of all This is the first time that a self-government MNO communities and constituencies. agreement has been signed with a Métis gov- In addition, MNO is developing materials ernment in Canada. and processes that can ensure citizen can be 8 reached and provide input through a variety of methods. More information will be avail- What happens to the MNO able on the consultation and engagement 6 Harvesting Policy and my process in the coming months. Harvesting Card as a result of the 2 Not only will the MNO be consulting What about section 35 Métis Self-Government Agreement? with communities and citizens, the Elec- rights-holders in areas like the What are the next steps? tors will have the opportunity to vote on the Self-Government Agreement and the GTA or other parts of southern Nothing happens to the MNO Harvesting While the Self-Government Agreement pro- constitution in a ratification process. Elec- Ontario—are they included in the Policy as a result of the Self-Government vide for immediate federal recognition that tors are MNO citizens whose files meet the Self-Government Agreement? How Agreement. The MNO negotiates with the the Métis communities represented by the MNO’s current requirements for citizenship will they participate or benefit? provincial government on harvesting issues. MNO hold the inherent right to self-gov- as set out in the MNO Bylaws and MNO The Framework Agreement on Métis Har- ernment, there are a series of requirements Registry Policy. vesting that the MNO has in place with On- that must still be completed in order for the All MNO Citizens can participate in the tario is not affected by the Self-Government MNO to be recognized as an Indigenous consultations on the Métis Government Agreement. government in Canadian law. These next constitution, and all Electors—including steps include: 4 those who live in southern Ontario—will be able to vote in the ratification process for • Development and ratification of a Does this Self-Government the constitution and the Self-Government constitution through a province-wide Agreement deal with other Métis Agreement. 9 referendum; The MNO has committed that Métis rights or claims? • Negotiation of fiscal and intergovern- Government citizens living outside of the Has Canada signed similar Self- mental implementation agreements; traditional territories of regional rights-bear- Government Agreements with • Development of a transition plan; The Self-Government Agreement is about ing Métis communities will be able to mean- and recognition of the inherent right of self-gov- ingfully participate within the new Métis other groups? Who? • Adoption of federal implementation ernment of the Métis communities that the Government and be represented within it, as legislation. MNO represents and providing a path for- well as to access programs and services, and Canada has signed agreements similar to ward to become a recognized Métis Govern- participate in and celebrate their Métis cul- the Self-Government Agreement with the The very first step in this process will be ment on that basis. ture. The constitution-building process will Métis Nation – Saskatchewan and the Métis extensive consultation and engagement with The Self-Government Agreement does also address how citizens living in southern Nation of Alberta. The MNO is the only citizens and communities on the Self-Gov- not extinguish, limit, or modify any Métis Ontario be able to participate within deci- representative of Métis in Ontario with ernment Agreement and the development rights whatsoever. Nor does it settle any Mé- sions related to their rights and claims, which which Canada has signed a Self-Government of a constitution. tis claims, or limit the ability to settle those are located within their traditional territories Agreement. claims in the future. in other parts of the province. Métis Voyageur Issue no. 102, August 2019 11

SELF-GOVERNMENT AGREEMENT

Federal recognition of Métis Self-Government is a Big Deal

Transition Plan must be developed and signed. In the end, this Agreement and the MNO Constitution must be ratified by a process that surely must include a referendum. The Agreement states that the constitution must deal with the following matters at a minimum:

Photo courtesy Métis Nation of Alberta (a) the definition of, and requirements for, being a Citizen; Commentary by Tony Belcourt (b) the Métis Government’s Governance MNO Founding President Structures that represent the Métis Communities Represented by the MNO at the local and regional levels; t last, Métis will be out of the (c) the processes for leadership selection of clutches of governments. Without the Métis Government’s Governance recognition of our right of self-gov- Structures; ernment, we have been forced to (d) financial management and account- operateA our collectives as “not-for-profit” cor- ability of the Métis Government to its porations or associations. Citizens; The bottom line is that the leaders of those (e) criteria for delegation of Authority by organizations are legally bound by the pro- the Métis Government; vincial corporations acts and their allegiance (f) processes for the recognition or estab- (top, standing) Audrey Poitras, is therefore bound to the corporation – not lishment of Institutions by the Métis MNA President; Margaret Froh, to the people. They are sworn to uphold the Government, including provisions for MNO President; and Glen interests of the corporation and when lawyers accountable governance of those Insti- McCallum, MN-S President. tell them they are bound to secrecy, they obey. tutions; (seated) Norma Spicer, MNA; Nobody can mistake my intense dislike for (g) political accountability of the Métis Senator Joseph Poitras, MNO; and “incorporating” under provincial laws. When Government’s leaders to its Citizens; Norm Fleury, MN-S. we started the Métis Nation of Ontario, we (h) enactment and amendment procedures decided we would operate as a Métis governing of Métis Government Laws, including (above) Senator Joseph Poitras body outside of those laws. But, regrettably, their publication; offers an opening prayer. we were forced to incorporate a secretariat (i) internal appeal and redress mechanisms; for the purpose of doing business because we (j) conflict of interest; (left) PCMNO Youth would otherwise not be eligible for any gov- (k) voting and referenda; Representative Mitch Case ernment funding. (l) access to information; records the signing for posterity ... So we did that. But we never the less tried (m) amending processes for the Constitu- and Instagram. to operate as a governing body that was ac- tion; and countable to only the citizens of the MNO. (n) any other matters. We adopted the MNO Statement of Prime Purpose, set out our values and aspirations In addition the MNO will be developing and set about to advance the recognition of future agreements regarding the following: our rights. But because we were operating under provincial laws we soon got caught up · Additional Self-Government Jurisdiction; in policies and by-laws that saw us drift more · Language, Culture, and Heritage; and more towards operating as a corporation: a · Education; corporation that delivered federal and provin- · Training; cial programs and services according to their · Child Care; policy and objectives rather than our own. · Early Childhood Development; The Métis Government Recognition and · Child and Family Services in a Manner Self-Government Agreement now affords us that is Consistent with any Relevant Fed- the opportunity to finally once again be a free eral Legislation; people. We can develop our own constitution, · Administration of Justice; our own laws and determine for ourselves how · Housing and Infrastructure; we want to allocate or deliver funding. And · Health Services and Promotion; we are now a giant step forward to addressing · Economic Development; the biggest issue of all – land! · Environment; Now that the agreement is signed and in · Veterans’ Affairs; A round of applause for MNO Founding President Tony Belcourt and MNO Past force, it is incumbent upon the MNO to es- · Application of Métis Government Laws President Gary Lipinski. tablish a process of consultation with MNO on Lands held by the Métis Government citizens – a process that is open and transpar- or a Governance Structure; ent and one that gives every MNO citizen an · The Métis Government’s Role, Involve- opportunity to be fully engaged. The MNO ment, or Shared Decision-Making in Re- must use every means to do this: face-to-face lation to: Water and Subsurface Rights; meetings and conferences, electronic media Wildlife, Fishing, and Fisheries; Forests; including use of the web for open debate. Protected Areas; and Land Management; This will, of necessity, be a long process. · Environmental Assessment; We must develop a constitution, laws and · National Parks; and governance structures that are of the people, · Any Other Matters Agreed to by the Par- by the people and for the people. We may ties, including Taxation. choose to build upon some existing policies but we must develop the constitution based The Agreement signed by the MNO and on our values and traditions and not merely the Federal Government on June 27, 2019 copy cat federal or provincial structures. How represents great opportunity for us. It can, will we build in full representation and the and will, be difficult to reach consensus on means for opposition to be heard and taken every issue but we must all work hard towards into account? What models of historic Métis achieving that end. Every MNO citizen has governance can we draw upon? the right and the opportunity to take part in This can’t be done overnight. An Intergov- the debate. I urge everyone to read the entire A procession of delegates is lead by fiddlers, Brianna Lizotte from MNA and MNO’s ernmental Relations Agreement must be de- agreement and to take part in this historic Alica Blore. veloped. A Fiscal Financing Agreement and a development. Métis Voyageur 12 Issue no. 102, August 2019

MÉTIS GOVERNMENT RECOGNITION AND SELF-GOVERNMENT AGREEMENT

HOW WE GOT TO THE MÉTIS SELF-GOVERNMENT AGREEMENT ...

Since its creation, the MNO Guided by the Statement of Prime The MNO was successful in the MNO-Canada-Ontario Framework has been the government Purpose, a series of resolutions were watershed Powley case where the Agreement to Advance Reconciliation for Métis people in Ontario, passed at MNO AGAs over the years, Supreme Court recognized Métis was signed on Dec. 11, 2017 -- this advancing their rights, the MNO pushed Canada and Ontario Section 35 rights and claims and set out a process to advance self- interests and aspirations on advancing self-government and urged that negotiations with government negotiations addressing outstanding claims the Métis begin 2017 1993 1993-2017 2003 MNO-Ontario-Canada MNO Founded AGAs Powley Case Framework

The MNO’s Statement of Prime 2016: The Isaac Report 2017: MNO establishes a Purpose affirms a commitment to makes recommendations negotiations committee advance Métis rights, self-government on the need for negotiation tasked with representing and self-determination processes with Métis on Métis citizens during rights, outstanding claims meetings with Canada and grievances

THE SELF-GOVERNMENT AGREEMENT TIMELINE WHAT WILL IT DO? PRE-CONFEDERATION TO SELF-GOVERNMENT

The Self-Government Agreement does Early 1800s: Distinctive Métis communities Mid-late1900s: Métis in Ontario advocate for two key things: emerge around the Upper Great Lakes, and along Métis rights and interests through various pan-In- the waterways and fur trade routes of what is now digenous organizations. Ontario with their own cultures, identities and 1982: The Constitution Act, 1982 is adopted, Recognizes that the Métis traditions. As settlers moved in, Métis continued to assert themselves and their rights. including section 35 which provides that Métis Communities represented by the rights, are to be “recognized and affirmed”. 1845: An Order in Council recommended “the MNO have the inherent right 1993: The Métis Nation of Ontario is founded with 1 of self-government, and that Commissioner of Crown Lands to survey a Town Plot and Park Lots at Sault Ste. Marie, giving the the Statement of Prime Purpose as its foundational the MNO has been authorized occupants [Métis] a title to such lots...” While the document, which commits the MNO to advancing by these Communities to survey occurred, official title for the Métis did not Métis rights and self-government in Ontario. implement this right. This is the materialize. 2003: The Supreme Court releases the landmark first time in history that this has 1849: A group of Métis and Anishinaabeg pro- Powley decision, affirming that the Métis communi- been explicitly acknowledged by test the Québec Mining Company at Mica Bay in ty in Sault Ste. Marie and environs have Métis har- Canada. response to intrusion on their traditional lands. This vesting rights in their traditional territory protected spurred negotiations of the Robinson Huron Treaty, by section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982. The Self-Government from which Métis were excluded. 2004: MNO and Ontario sign a Harvesting Agree- ment that relies on MNO’s Harvester’s Card system. Agreement sets out the 1840-50s: Members of the historic Georgian Bay 2 process for the MNO to Métis community petition for lands due to increas- 2004: The National Definition is adopted by all become a recognized “Métis ing settler encroachments. MNC governing members. The definition focused Government”. The MNO has 1850: The Métis at Sault Ste. Marie advocate for on Métis citizens being descendants of Métis or always asserted and acted as a inclusion in the Robinson-Huron Treaty and for “Halfbreed” ancestors government for its citizens, but protection for Métis lands. 2008: MNO and Ontario sign a five-year Frame- the Self-Government Agreement 1875: The Halfbreed Adhesion to Treaty 3 is signed work Agreement committing them to jointly pursue provides a path to formal by Nicholas Chatelaine, on behalf of the “Halfbreeds reconciliation in a variety of ways. recognition of this by Canada. of Rainy Lake and River”, the only known adhesion to 2013: Supreme Court’s Manitoba Métis Feder- a treaty negotiated and signed by a Métis communi- ation decision, declared that Canada breached ty, as Métis. honour of Crown in failing to implement land-relat- 1905: Several “half-breed” families at Moose ed promises to the Manitoba Métis Community in Factory petition to the government for scrip to be section 31 of the Manitoba Act, 1870. issued to them. Métis Voyageur Issue no. 102, August 2019 13

MÉTIS GOVERNMENT RECOGNITION AND SELF-GOVERNMENT AGREEMENT

HOW WE GOT TO THE MÉTIS SELF-GOVERNMENT AGREEMENT ...

CONSULTATION & ENGAGEMENT Métis citizens and communities discuss what kind of government BUILDING & they want. Métis self- RATIFYING government will require A CONSTITUTION direct and extensive The constitution must engagement. Work begins be built and ratified. MNO-Canada-Ontario Framework MNO and Canada signed a Métis Self- on constitution-building, Before adoption, all Agreement to Advance Reconciliation Government Agreement which recognizes the development of laws Métis right-holders was signed on Dec. 11, 2017 -- this MNO as an Indigenous government and and transitioning from will be heard again set out a process to advance self- locks in a mandate to negotiate Métis self- a not-for-profit to a fully through a province-wide government negotiations government based on the inherent right functioning government referendum

2017 2019 MNO-Ontario-Canada The Next Steps ... Framework Self-Government Agreement More about these on page 16

2017: MNO establishes a 2018: Update to 2018/19: Two information negotiations committee the MNO AGA on sessions were held on tasked with representing Self-Government the self-government Métis citizens during negotiations agreement with Provincial meetings with Canada and community leadership in May 2018 and Jan 2019 as well as a meeting on the draft self-government implementation agreements TIMELINE in June 2019 PRE-CONFEDERATION TO SELF-GOVERNMENT

Mid-late1900s: Métis in Ontario advocate for 2014: The MNO AGA formally adopts the Registry Métis rights and interests through various pan-In- Policy digenous organizations. 2016: The Supreme Court of Canada releases the 1982: The Constitution Act, 1982 is adopted, Daniels decision, declaring that Métis are included including section 35 which provides that Métis as “Indians” within section 91(24) of the Constitu- rights, are to be “recognized and affirmed”. tion Act, 1867. Canada can no longer justify the exclusion of Métis from federal negotiations on the 1993 : The Métis Nation of Ontario is founded with basis that it lacks jurisdiction. the Statement of Prime Purpose as its foundational document, which commits the MNO to advancing 2017: MNO-Canada-Ontario Framework Agree- Métis rights and self-government in Ontario. ment on Advancing Reconciliation sets out a negotiations process for a core self-government 2003 : The Supreme Court releases the landmark agreement. Powley decision, affirming that the Métis communi- ty in Sault Ste. Marie and environs have Métis har- 2017: After an extensive and rigorous review of vesting rights in their traditional territory protected historical reports The MNO and Ontario announce by section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982. six historic Métis communities in Ontario, in addi- tion to the one recognized by the Supreme Court 2004 : MNO and Ontario sign a Harvesting Agree- in Powley. ment that relies on MNO’s Harvester’s Card system. 2017: Registry and Self-Government Readiness 2004 : The National Definition is adopted by all Process (RSRP ) is launched. MNC governing members. The definition focused on Métis citizens being descendants of Métis or 2018: MNO and Ontario conduct an indepen- “Halfbreed” ancestors dent review of the MNO Harvester’s Card system, which concludes that MNO has a credible system 2008 : MNO and Ontario sign a five-year Frame- for identifying Métis rights-holders; and, MNO work Agreement committing them to jointly pursue and Ontario sign Framework Agreement on Métis reconciliation in a variety of ways. Harvesting, which relies on the MNO’s Harvester’s 2013: Supreme Court’s Manitoba Métis Feder- Cards system. ation decision, declared that Canada breached 2019: MNO and Canada sign the Métis honour of Crown in failing to implement land-relat- Government Recognition and Self-Government ed promises to the Manitoba Métis Community in Agreement. section 31 of the Manitoba Act, 1870. Métis Voyageur 14 Issue no. 102, August 2019

SELF-GOVERNMENT AGREEMENT

The June 27th, 2019 signing of the Métis Government Recognition and Self-Government UNDERSTANDING Agreement, from here on we will called it the Self-Government Agreement, was the culmination of decades of activism by the MNO, its citizens, and its elected leadership to the MÉTIS secure recognition of the MNO as a government for its Métis citizens in Ontario. The long GOVERNMENT road to this historic moment is illustrated in the timelines on page 14 and 15. The Self-Government Agreement provides a clear path for the MNO to transform into RECOGNITION and a recognized public Indigenous government. This brief explainer shows how the MNO will work with its Regions and Community Councils to implement the Self-Government SELF-GOVERNMENT Agreement, develop a Constitution for the future Métis Government and grow greater capacity within MNO Regions and communities in preparation for the additional responsi- AGREEMENT bilities of self-government.

We Get There Together

Implementing the Self-Government Agreement is up to the MNO, its citizens, and communities. It can NOT be implemented solely by the MNO at the provincial level or by PCMNO. There are decisions that must be made that require citizen and community involvement and approval such as the development and ratification of a Constitution for the future Métis Government.

Authentic & Accountable Métis Government

The future Métis Government’s legitimacy depends on Métis citizens and communities believing Consultation and Engagement in it, participating within it, and seeing themselves in it. If not, the Métis Government will not be a reflection of the Métis it is meant to represent, and it cannot succeed. The participation and informed consent of all MNO members and communities must be heard. This is essential to ensure the future Métis Government will be authentic and accountable to these unique Métis communities and constituencies.

Regional Implementation Agreements (RIAs)

The MNO has drafted Regional Implementation Agreements which align with the steps and general commitments made by the MNO within the Self-Government Agreement. The RIAs provide some further details and clarity on how the steps and commitments within the Self-Government Agreement will be carried out in collaboration with the Métis communities and citizens represented by the MNO. The MNO will work to negotiate RIAs with each of the MNO’s nine Regions.

RIAs act as Roadmaps The MNO represents multiple distinct regional rights-bearing Métis communities as well as constituencies of Métis citizens that live outside of Métis traditional territories, which have all come together to authorize the MNO to represent them for the purposes of their Métis rights and self- government. Because of this unique reality, the Self-Government Agreement includes specific commitments to ensure their participation and consent, as well as protection for their unique rights and claims. While these commitments are found within the Self-Government in a general way, the RIAs act as a “roadmap” for exactly how these commitments will be implemented.

Consultations on an Ontario Métis Constitution: Ensuring All Voices Are Heard

One critical step in the Self-Government Agreement is the development and ratification of a Constitu- tion for the future Métis Government. To implement this step in the Self-Government Agreement, the RIAs provide specific commitments for the MNO, MNO Regions, and Community Councils to collabo- rate on the design of the Constitution consultations to ensure that Métis voices across the province are heard. Workplans created as part of the RIAs will set out these details, including timelines.

Some Key Aspects of RIAs

One key aspect of the Regional Implementation Agreements is commitments for the MNO, MNO Re- gions, and Community Councils to collaborate on the design and execution of a consultation process for the Métis Government Constitution. This will help to ensure that each community is consulted in an effective way, and that every MNO citizen has the opportunity to participate. The Constitution will be the foundation of the future Métis Government, making it critical that the Constitution be developed through close consultation with MNO citizens and communities. Once the Constitution is completed, it will be voted on in a ratification process that will ensure the informed consent of MNO communities. Métis Voyageur Issue no. 102, August 2019 15

REMEMBRANCE DAY

Métis youth joined the MNO Veterans’ Council and Canadian Senators in Ottawa for Remembrance Day ceremonies marking the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War. Pictured are (back row, left to right) Brian Black, Colin Deacon, Shelly Claus, Guy Mandeville, Yvonne Boyer, Paul Pirie, Sharlene Lance, Doug Woods, Greg Garratt, (front row, left to right) Jonas Black, Katie Ann Baltzer, Angelique Faith Belcourt and Dalton Latondress. Absent: Jeff Dusome and Makayla Beachamp. Ottawa: A note of thanks from Métis youth and veterans a Métis youth submitted by mark Remembrance Day Mackayla Beauchamp ix Métis youth joined the Mé- and wreaths were laid by Métis, First ans’ Council Women’s Representative I want to say thank you for giving me the opportunity to see tis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Nations and Inuit representatives. Shelly Claus and MNO citizen and the veterans at the Remembrance Day ceremony in Ottawa. Veterans’ Council for Remem- MNO Veterans’ Council Acting Pres- veteran Sharlene Lance placed the I also want to say thank you for letting me go to the brance Day ceremonies in Ot- ident Brian Black and Métis Veteran wreath on behalf of the MNO. meeting on Saturday morning. I had a great experience Stawa. Paul Pirie placed the MNO wreath at The MNO has laid a wreath at the learning about the mental health care that we can get. Leading up to the commemora- the base of the monument. national memorial during Remem- I liked the ceremony it was amazing the jets flying over, tions, the MNO Veterans’ Council MNO citizen and Canadian Sen- brance Day ceremonies each year the parade, the laying of the wreaths and hearing the Act of and youth sat down with MNO Man- ator Yvonne Boyer and her colleague since 2004. Remembrance in three different languages. ager Mental Health and Addictions Senator Colin Deacon were also pres- The ceremony is just one of many The Indigenous Remembrance Ceremony had a beautiful Wendy Stewart, who spoke about ent for the ceremony at the National participated in and attended by MNO monument. MNO services and programs that are Aboriginal Veterans Monument. citizens each year across the province. It was different than what I was used to with the laying available to all MNO citizens. The ceremony at the National War Métis have been proud defenders of of tobacco to say a prayer, the jets flying over and the A crowd of more than 60 people Memorial, this year marking the 100th Canada as far back as the War of 1812, parade and how long it was. I’m used to Penetang and how attended a short ceremony steps away anniversary of the end of the First the First and Second World Wars, the small it is. The Ottawa ceremony was a big step, but it was from the National War Memorial at World War, began with the Veterans Korean Conflict and in peacekeep- something new and exciting. the National Aboriginal Veterans Parade to the memorial, followed by ing missions across the globe. Most I enjoyed it very much and thank you for letting me come. Monument, including many members the singing of O’Canada and the play- recently, Métis soldiers and veterans I had such a great experience that I can’t wait to share with of the Ottawa Region Métis Council. ing of the Last Post. It was followed by have served overseas in Afghanistan other people about the experience that I had. There were three Eagle Staffs present two minutes of silence. MNO Veter- as well. ∞

Toronto: Queen’s Park Ceremony of Remembrance

Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) President Margaret Froh and MNO Women’s Council Representative Pearl Gabona took part in the Ceremony of Remem- brance at Queen’s Park in Toronto. (left to right) President Froh and Ontario Premier Doug Ford; President Froh, the Honourable Carolyn Bennett and MNOWC Representative Pearl Gabona; President Froh and Lt. Governor Elizabeth Dowdeswell; President Froh and Pearl Gabona. Métis Voyageur 16 Issue no. 102, August 2019

REMEMBRANCE DAY A letter to all veterans

submitted by Paul Pirie Metis Nation of Ontario Veterans’ Council Rep & MNO Georgian Bay Community Remembrance Day in Sudbury Council On Nov. 9, MNO Sudbury Métis Council Senator Richard Meilleur (above s an ex-teacher as well as a right) carried the Métis flag during a Remembrance Day ceremony at parent, I can tell you that Collège Boréal, in Sudbury. The ceremony honoured all Canadians who you just never know what have served this country, with a special emphasis on Indigenous service kidsA are thinking. In the weeks men and women. Submitted by Richard Meilleur, Senator - MNO Sudbury Métis Council leading up to Remembrance Day Windsor Remembers each year, usually under the Legion program, veterans attend many On Remembrance Day, Second World War veteran Wilfred schools and speak to the students Rochon and veteran Robert Desjardins laid a wreath on behalf of MNO Clear Waters Métis Council about their experiences and the les- the MNO Windsor-Essex-Kent Métis Council (WEKMC) at the city Remembrance Day events sons of war. of Windsor cenotaph. Some kids take it in, some don’t. Rochon was accompanied by his granddaughter Sienna Métis veteran Don Kennedy placed a wreath When I ran into a colleague Rochon and her father Jon Rochon, making three generations on behalf of the MNO Clear Waters Métis a week or so before Nov. 11, the present. The Remembrance Day ceremony attracted one of its Council at the Remembrance Day ceremony subject of Remembrance Day soon largest crowds. MNO Veterans’ Council Women’s Representative at Canadian War Plane Heritage Museum arose. Joanna has an eight-year- Sharlene Lance, veteran Shelly Claus and MNO Region 9 Youth in Mount Hope. More than 2,000 people old daughter, who ‘out of the blue’ Representative Katie Baltzer attended the National Remembrance attended the annual event. Elsewhere, started quizzing her mum about her Day Ceremony in Ottawa, with Claus and Lance laying the MNO MNO citizen Leon Fleury carried the Métis granddad (a retired RAF member), wreath. flag in the St. George Remembrance Day the currently-serving uniformed Pictured above are MNO WEKMC Councilor Robert Desjardins, ceremony on Nov. 11, and MNO Clear members living on her street in our MNO WEKMC Councilor Gary Lovell, MNO WEKMC Secretary- Waters Métis Council President Jerry Clarke very military city of Barrie, those Treasurer Jon Rochon, MNO WEKMC President Donna Grayer laid the wreath at the cenotaph. Submitted by she saw shopping and doing things and (front row) Wilfred Rochon. Submitted by Donna Grayer, President - Jerry Clarke, President - MNO Clear Waters Métis with their kids in her neighbour- MNO Windsor-Essex-Kent Métis Council Council hood, etc. A short while later Kinza an- nounced to her mum that she had decided to write a letter to all vet- erans to tell them how she felt. The following is an exact copy of that letter:

To: All Soldiers

“Thank you for all the things that you have done for us. If it wasn’t for you we wouldn’t be here today. We all hope you will be safe. That is why we wear a poppy on Remembrance Day to remember the ones who have died in the war. I hope one day we will have world peace. Just think today you and me wouldn’t be here maybe even no Canada maybe it would be a different country. Forget about Superman, Flash and Batman. Those are all fake. We have the real deal. Well you might like the fake ones but the Soldiers sure are my superheroes. We will always be grateful MÉTIS NATION OF ONTARIO for you.” Love: Kinza (and there was a small heart Communications Survey drawn here!)

For those kids who do take in the school presentations, TV shorts, The MNO is committed to improving etc., the thoughts which flow its communications both within the Watch through their minds can be pro- administration and with MNO citizens. As part found. What struck me personally of an improved communications strategy the www.metisnation.org about Kinza’s letter was that she had equated our servicemen and women MNO is conducting a survey. By filling out this to take part in with superheroes and that is what survey, you are providing MNO with valuable makes it not only true in a way that information to help us communicate better! the survey! perhaps adults hadn’t thought of, but in a way in which Canadians of all ages can understand and agree This survey is voluntary and your responses with – warts and all. Even Superman will be kept confidential. If you would like has his Kryptonite, but his service to the world is what counts. to know more about this project, contact Meegwetch and Marsi, Kinza. [email protected]. Métis Voyageur Issue no. 102, August 2019 17

MNO SEASONAL YOUTH CAMPS EXPERIENCE THE NORTH

Métis youth and staff pose for a photo after a day of snowshoeing IVÈR: and dog sledding in Thunder Bay. A Métis Youth Cultural Camp

xtreme weather condi- reconnect with friends, while the un- keep warm. tions hit Ontario late initiated found the confidence to step From bonding with huskies, to January, forcing some outside their comfort zones and form releasing a young pike back into the to spend the week- new relationships. waters, a profound sense of respect end indoors, safe and Some students, including Sarah for nature underscored the outdoor warm. But not even McCaveney, from Pickering, Ont., activities. a polar vortex could keep 19 adven- have attended every cultural camp Eturous Métis students from attending since March 2018. Indoor lessons the 2019 winter Métis Youth Cultural “At all the camps, I’ve learned some- Camp: Ivèr. thing new. [Camp Ivèr] will expand Back indoors, MNO staff and Mé- The Métis Nation of Ontario my understanding of the Métis way tis knowledge-holders from the area (MNO) cultural camps offer high of life [and] help me gain leadership held various workshops for students. school students in Grades 10-12 a skills that will assist me in post-sec- Ranging from safety demonstra- unique opportunity to experience ondary. Métis camp isn’t only a great tions and lessons in proper outfitting, first-hand traditional Métis culture way to connect with Métis youth, it’s campers learned the history and tech- and way of life. Ivèr, which ran from a way to connect Métis youth with niques employed by their ancestors to Jan. 31- Feb.3 in Thunder Bay, was the their roots,” she says. survive harsh winter environments. fifth in a series of seasonal Métis Youth Students also participated in craft- Cultural Camps, bringing Métis youth Connecting with the land ing and quillwork, and classic Métis from across Ontario together. jigging and storytelling. As these students prepare for life Despite temperatures below -15 C, “The great thing about these camps after secondary school, these camps bright-eyed Métis youth were up early, is you really get to experience your equip them with valuable skills and ready to meet their bushy-tailed com- culture and your history hands on, life lessons; students develop leader- panions for lessons in dog-sledding. which I find is the greatest way to ship, confidence and a powerful sense Paul Amano, owner/musher of Boreal learn,” explains Métis youth Josh of Métis pride and community. Journeys took the students through Bombardier. “A lot of the times you “The camp allows them to question a safety and training demonstration. read about it in a book and it may things and figure out for themselves They were taught commands to guide not stick, but when you’re actually out who they are and [Camp Ivèr] adds to the dogs on the trail (“Gee!” “Haw!”) here doing it, it’s just amazing.” that personal growth. As they progress and encouraged to bond with the Following a fish fry, MNO Thun- through the different programming, team of 29 huskies. der Bay Métis Council Senator Ken (top and middle) they’re going to grow more and have a When not riding dogsleds through Simard presented the newest camp Students at the Ivèr better understanding of Ontario Métis the woods, Métis youth strapped on participants with their very own Mé- camp had opportunity history, culture and way of life,” says snowshoes and explored the winter tis sashes. to try dog-sledding and Scott Carpenter, MNO Manager of wilderness, honing techniques prac- Carpenter also took the opportuni- ice-fishing. Projects and Partnership. tised by their Métis ancestors. ty to thank the Ministry of Tourism, The following day brought the Culture and Sport for providing the Bonding with peers students to Hazelwood Conserva- funding for the camps. “The impor- tory, where a brief hike led to a vast tance of culture and history for our For many of the students, oppor- and frozen lake. Students learned to youth goes beyond words. I think (left) tunities to come together with other use manual augers to drill deep into these youth, through their own words, Captain of the Hunt Métis youth are rare, but proved a the ice, established fishing lines, built have [described how] it’s changed their Ken Simard presented highlight of the experience. shelters, and even set up a fire by the lives. There’s no value you can put on students with their own Returning students were eager to shore to brew some hot chocolate and that,” he said. ∞ Métis sashes. Métis Voyageur 18 Issue no. 102, August 2019

UPDATE: MNC General Assembly Resolution

BACKGROUND On Wednesday, November 28, 2018, during the Métis National Council (MNC) General Assembly, the President of the MNC Clement Chartier delivered a report that he had prepared enti- tled “Addressing the Integrity of the Historic Métis Homeland.” The report, which is full of errors and misinformation, makes a series of claims against the MNO including that the MNO has failed to apply the citizenship criteria of the historic Métis Trapline to be forever in Nation adopted by the MNC General Assembly in 2002 (Na- tional Definition) and has consistently ignored and been in breach of MNC General Assembly resolutions on citizenship Métis hands and grandfathering. It also argued that the MNO has attempted to extend the boundaries of the historic Métis Nation homeland by a unilateral declaration in 2017 of “six new historic Métis Siblings Jim Tolles and Darlene Lent recount the communities within Ontario” without the consent of the MNC. eight-year journey to gain ownership of trapline The report included a number of recommendations and called for suspension of the MNO. Eventually a resolution was put to the MNC Assembly calling for MNO to be placed on “pro- ear Georgian Bay to find someone on the reserve who one from their family wants to take it bation.” Based on the report, the MNC Assembly debated and amongst the tower- wanted it. over in the future, other Métis fami- narrowly passed a resolution placing the MNO on probation for ing trees and the clear Tolles and Lent, now a head trap- lies in the Georgian Bay and Moon one year and outlining a number of conditions and detailing that waters, Darlene Lent per-helper team, submitted their ap- River will have the opportunity. the Assembly would revisit the issue after the probation period. and Jim Tolles, Métis plications, background information “It’s nice to keep roots in the area,” The vote on this resolution was 29 in favour and 24 opposed. Nation of Ontario (MNO) citizens and lineage in the hopes of taking he said. “It’s very exciting. I’ve been Nand siblings, grew up hunting, fish- over the line. Then two years ago, offered other traplines, but this is in CURRENT UPDATE ing and spending time outdoors. they submitted even information my traditional territory, and now I On May 15, 2019, President of MNC, Clément Chartier sent a Lent, who is also the MNO Credit about their family to prove that their can share it with friends and family,” memorandum to the Members of the MNC General Assembly, River Métis Council Women’s Rep- family trapped in the area, reaching he said. which claims to suspend the right of the MNO to participate resentative, remembers staying with back to the 1700s. Thinking back to seeing the beaver as a Governing Member in MNC decision making. her grandparents, whose back shed At the end of October 2018, the and muskrat hanging in her grand- President Froh has since responded in a letter to President would be filled with beaver or musk- trapper/helper team got the call from parents’ shed, Lent said, “At the time Chartier regarding the memorandum, clearly stating: “This at- rats drying out as they hung it meant nothing to me, I just tempt to disenfranchise MNO is unjust and invalid, and con- from the ceiling. thought it was something that trary to the rights of MNO as a Governing Member and the The family can trace its his- my grandfather did, but now guiding principles of MNC. This is reflected by the fact that the tory in the area back to 1730 it kind of gives me, I almost articles and by-laws established by the General Assembly do not in Mash Dash Bay, to the Vas- get a chill almost thinking that provide for termination or expulsion of a Governing Member, seur and Longlade - Ontario it’s something that I’m going whether by you or the General Assembly.” Métis Root Ancestors - and to continue to do. Within the letter President Froh called for an immediate Board to a time when they trapped “Something we will have to of Governors meeting to further discuss the matter, and, as ap- for fur to make clothing, for do is trap some muskrat. That’s propriate, to take steps to call a meeting of the General Assembly. food and to make a bit of extra my mom’s favourite dish, so “As we have consistently expressed, we welcome opportunities to money. that’s going to be on our list have reasoned and fully informed conversations with all Govern- “Back in the 1700s, 1800s, to get some muskrat. We are ing Members about MNO’s ongoing relationship with MNC, 1900s to live in an area like very proud.” as well as to discuss many other pressing governance issues.” that you didn’t run to the cor- They have plans to share ner store, you had to live off that pride among Métis in WHAT’S NEXT? the land,” said Lent. the MNO Georgian Bay Mé- MNO continues today as it did prior to this decision to engage Their parents lived in the tis Council and MNO Moon in a government-to-government relationship with Canada and area for 50 years before sell- River Métis Council areas by Ontario and all Métis Nation governments to advance a man- ing their cottage, but Tolles setting up a cultural camp date of Métis rights and self-government, and to improve the has fond memories of living on the property and inviting socio-economic well-being of Métis citizens, families and com- off the land, clearing paths and youth out to partake in dif- munities. Over the last 26 years, the MNO has worked directly building blinds in the woods. ferent activities, including with all levels of government to develop its program and delivery It’s a tradition that Tolles hunting, tracking, trapping infrastructure of more than 30 points of service, with over 200 and Lent now look forward to and more. staff and an annual operating budget of over $40 million. passing on. The duo recently Tolles has a lot of experi- Moreover, on June 27, 2019 the Métis Nation of Ontario acquired a trapline in their tra- ence teaching youth, putting and the Government of Canada signed the MNO-Canada Métis ditional territory - a vast area on workshops and has done so Government Recognition and Self-Government Agreement. MNO bordered by Georgian Bay in for the MNO as both a Tradi- signed this historic agreement alongside Métis governments from the West, 12 Mile Bay in the tional Knowledge Holder and Saskatchewan and Alberta. South, Highway 400 in the now as a Senator. He teaches In the Self-Government Agreement, Canada recognizes that East and Moon River in the about using all parts of the an- Métis Communities represented by the MNO have an inher- North. imal, as he tans his own hides, ent right to self-government over their internal governance and The eight-year journey to makes tools, drums and other recognizes that the MNO has been mandated by these com- gain ownership of the trapline traditional crafts. munities to represent them and implement this inherent right included a lot of research, pa- (top) Siblings Darlene Lent and Jim Tolles. “This is what it’s all about, on their behalf. This is the first time that the inherent right perwork, follow-up phone (bottom) Jim’s tattoo featuring a beaver, a is the youth. We want to bring of self-government for Métis in Ontario has been explicitly calls and texts, but it has all bear and an infinity symbol connecting the them out there,” Tolles said. acknowledged by Canada. been worth it. words that describe the boundary of his Although Tolles didn’t trap The decision of the MNC Assembly to place MNO on pro- “We’re just so happy to let new trapline - 12 Mile Bay and Moon River. this winter, he’s looking for- bation has no impact on MNO citizenship or harvesting rights. everybody know in the MNO, ward to getting his camp set This decision has no impact on the Powley decision or the as well as our friends and fam- up this spring and has plans recognition of Section 35 Métis rights. Métis rights holders are ily that we have the trapline and it the Ministry and went to sign the to build a log cabin and a birch bark Métis rights holders whether they are from Section 35 rights will forever be in Métis hands,” said paperwork, giving them ownership canoe. bearing communities in Ontario or connected to what MNC Tolles, who is also the MNO Credit of the line. As he rolls up his sleeves to get is now defining as the far narrower boundaries of the Historic River Métis Council Senator. “They were impressed with all of to work, he’ll proudly shows off the Métis Homeland. Tolles first found out about the the background information and tattoo on his forearm. There’s a bea- The MNO has continued to engage as a member of the MNC trapline when he tracked down the lineage and research we had done to ver chomping on a tree, a bear and Board of Governors on national files and to advance the work former First Nations owner of the prove that our family lines were in between them an infinity symbol of the Canada-Métis Nation Accord on behalf of the rights and line, so that he could become his that area, and they made a point of connecting the words that describe interests of Metis in Ontario. helper. When he went to process his telling us that we made history as this the boundary of his new trapline - 12 As for the MNO’s next steps with MNC, that will require application, the Ministry of Natu- trapline would become and remain Mile Bay and Moon River. further discussions with MNO leadership and citizens. The ral Resources and Forestry told him Métis from here forward,” Lent said. It’s a permanent reminder of the MNO has been one of the governing members of MNC since they were looking for someone to It’s the first time in Ontario that trapline that will forever remain in 1994 and the existing relationship with the MNC is embedded take over the line because it wasn’t a trapline has transferred from First Métis hands. ∞ in the MNO Statement of Prime Purpose. ∞ being used. They were also unable Nations to Métis hands. Even if no Métis Voyageur Issue no. 102, August 2019 19

EFFICIENT, ACCOUNTABLE AND HELPFUL TO MNO CITIZENS

UPDATE: MÉTIS NATION OF ONTARIO Registry

During the 2017 Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Commission on Métis Rights and Self-Government, MNO citizens said they need better communication from us to be able to participate fully in the governance of this organization. Citizens also asked that citizenship applications be processed faster, and for more assurance from the MNO that we’re regularly updating your contact information so you have access to everything you need to engage with us.

These requests were not new. For years, work with individual citizens and applicants, we’ve heard from MNO citizens about your becoming familiar with specific files and pro- desire for more interaction and assistance. As viding one-on-one support. Advocates will a result, the MNO has decided to restructure look into your questions and concerns and our internal Registry. Our primary goal is to follow up with you directly. If you call or email ensure that the Registry is helpful to citizens, the Registry for information, you can expect efficient, accountable, and provides excellent to speak with a Client Advocate immediately service. Citizens will receive more regular and or receive a response from a Client Advocate consistent communications about the status of within three to five business days. their files, applications, and renewals. Cards You can also expect improved correspon- will be processed more quickly than before. dence: The day-to-day Registry functions are now being provided by an independent third-party • More than 15,000 letters have been organization called Know History, a histori- mailed to citizens since the Registry cal services company based in Ottawa. Know Review and Self Government History is the most experienced company in Readiness Process was completed. If Canada in the field of Métis genealogical re- you received a letter indicating your search. For the last five years, they have worked file is complete, you will get a new closely with the MNO to research Ontario’s citizenship card in the mail by the historic Métis communities and Root Ances- end of July. tors. The firm has also done numerous Tradi- tional Knowledge and Land Use interviews • If you applied for citizenship before with MNO citizens across the province. Know December 2018, you should have History manages their projects with profes- receive a letter by the end of June sionalism and confidentiality, and will deliver with details about your application. results on time. If you have been approved for The Registry of the Métis Citizens of On- citizenship, you’ll get a card in the tario, including all data and the genealogical mail by the end of July. database, still belong to and are maintained by the MNO. Know History has entered • If you applied for citizenship after into a strict confidentiality agreement with December 2018, these applications the MNO and all personal information is are still being processed, and letters completely secure. will be mailed by the end of August. Know History is designing processes and systems to meet our goals for a restructured • From now on, anyone who applies Registry. But all Registry functions continue for citizenship and meets all of the to be conducted in accordance with the MNO required criteria will receive a letter citizenship requirements laid out in our MNO within three months of the Registry Bylaws and Registry Policy. receiving the application.

What you can expect from It will take time for Know History to imple- ment all of the improved systems and process- the Registry? es required to ensure we have a Registry that operates efficiently and accountably. In the Over the next few months, we ask for your meantime, MNO citizens who call the Reg- patience as we work to improve Registry pro- istry will receive exemplary customer service cesses. However, you should notice a big differ- -- and the assurance that your files are being ence right away in how quickly and efficiently given the careful consideration you’ve asked your questions and concerns are handled by for and deserve. the Registry. One of the biggest changes you’ll notice If you have any questions about the restruc- is the team of Client Advocates working to turing, please reach out to Joanne Meyer or assist you with your files. Client Advocates Jennifer St. Germain.

Update your contact information If you’re waiting for a letter from the Registry, it may be that we don’t have the correct contact information on file for you. If you’d like to confirm your address, please send an email to [email protected] or call 1-855-798-1006 and remember to include your citizenship number. Métis Voyageur 20 Issue no. 102, August 2019

LOUIS RIEL DAY QUEEN’S PARK CEREMONY IN TORONTO

Fight for Métis rights highlighted at provincial Riel Day ceremony

nspired by Louis Riel’s legacy as a founding father of Canada, but of fighting for Métis rights to declare ourselves as a vibrant and and recognition, progress critical part of this country today, in on that continued fight and 2018, as we move forward.” the recent progress towards ...to declare During the ceremony, remarks self-government by the Mé- ourselves not just a were given by MNO Women’s tis Nation of Ontario (MNO) was part of the history Council Representative Pearl Ishared at ceremonies in Toronto this Gabona, MNO Toronto and York Louis Riel Day. of Canada and the Region Métis Council President (above) Jean Teillet, a Métis lawyer and great-grand-niece of Louis On Nov. 16, 133 years after Louis Tera Beaulieu and MNO Youth Riel, addressed the crowd during the Louis Riel Day ceremony. Riel was hanged, MNO leadership, founders of Canada Council Chair Paul Robitaille spoke representatives from the government and Louis Riel as about Riel and his legacy. of the MNO (PCMNO), citizens “As a Métis youth, I will contin- and members of the public gathered a founding father ue Riel’s fight to preserve our na- for two flag raisings in Ontario’s of Canada, but to tionality. I will continue the fight capital. The flag was raised first at declare ourselves to preserve our identity: not mere Toronto City Hall and later in front mixed-bloods and half-breeds, but a of Queen’s Park. as a vibrant and distinct nation with a strong politi- Louis Riel Day is widely recog- critical part of this cal consciousness,” he said. nized as a day to pay respect to the “I will continue the fight for legacy of Louis Riel and to celebrate country today... self-determination, so that rights- Métis culture, heritage and resilien- bearing Métis citizens, alone, can cy. Riel was the great Métis leader decide the future of the Métis Na- executed by the Canadian govern- tion. And I will continue the fight ment for leading the Northwest Re- for our Métis youth, so that we can sistance in defense of Métis rights all cherish our collective inheritance and the Métis way-of-life. Every year Indigenous Affairs and Minister of and preserve our Métis nationality Louis Riel Day is held to remem- Energy, Northern Development and - just as Riel asked of us.” ber what Riel sacrificed and renew Mines MPP Greg Rickford, Minis- Following the Queen’s Park cer- the commitment to complete his ter of Crown-Indigenous Relations emony, a reception was held at the work. The MNO celebrates Louis Dr. Carolyn Bennett and MPP Ontario Law Society, which featured Riel Day to recognize the many con- Kathleen Wynne. a discussion about Métis Identity, tributions of the Métis to Canada Minister Bennett highlighted Métis rights and Section 35 with and to highlight the challenges that the MNO and Canada’s strong re- panelists MNO citizen and Métis Métis continue to face. lationship as they work together on lawyer Jason Madden, great-grand- “While it’s a very sad day, it’s also self-government and called Métis, niece of Louis Riel and lawyer Jean (above) MNO President Margaret a very hopeful day,” stated MNO and Métis youth, “fearless fighters Teillet and Associate Professor at Froh receives a Louis Riel Day President Margaret Froh in her for the section 35 rights that you Saint Mary’s University Darryl Le- commemoration from Deputy remarks inside Toronto City Hall. understand and really hold us as roux, whose recent work focuses on Speaker of the Legislative of “We are growing stronger and stron- Canada accountable.” self-indigeneity and eastern Métis. Ontario MPP Rick Nicholls during ger and stronger.” In her remarks outside the On- Métis culture was also featured the 2018 Louis Riel Day ceremony Guests at the Queen’s Park event tario legislature, President Froh said prominently at each of the events, outside Queen’s Park on Nov. 16. included Deputy Speaker of the it’s a fitting place to remember Riel with music provided by MNO Legislative Assembly of Ontario and to raise the Metis Nation Flag, citizens Alicia and Liam Blore and (right) The No. 10 Branch of Minister of Provincial Parliament “to declare ourselves not just a part jigging demonstrations by Auriele the Royal Canadian Legion has (MPP) Rick Nicholls, MPP Sol of the history of Canada and the Diotte, Megan Southwell and Kyle participated in Louis Riel Day Mamakwa, Ontario Minister of founders of Canada and Louis Riel Burton. ceremonies for the past 18 years. Métis Voyageur Issue no. 102, August 2019 21

LOUIS RIEL DAY ACROSS THE PROVINCE MNO Grand River Métis Council marks Louis Riel Day with a week of events submitted by citizen Kathleen Lannigan travelled Diane Kilby across town to the raise the Métis MNO Grand River Métis, Councillor flag at the University of Guelph for and the first time. Jennifer Parkinson As the flag was raised, a large MNO Grand River Métis, President crowd gathered and clapped as the flag reached the top of the pole. he Métis flag flew in loca- Many stayed to ask questions, in- tions across the Grand River cluding a student social media re- community, marking Louis porter who interviewed President TRiel Day in Kitchener, Cambridge Parkinson on the history of Riel, and Guelph. the flag and why it’s important to Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) celebrate Riel Day. Meanwhile, Trea- Grand River Métis Council surer Muma and Kathleen Lannigan (GRMC) participated in a number headed to the Aboriginal Resource of events starting with the Riel Cele- Centre to enjoy some refreshments bration at Waterloo Regional Muse- with university staff and students. um in Kitchener on Nov. 12 and 13. To finish off a fun-filled day, There, the council welcomed MNO GRMC was invited by more than 180 Grade 6 to 8 stu- Conestoga College’s Infinite Reach dents and teachers from across Wa- Representative, André Nault, to join terloo Region, who participated in their celebration. The three Infinite different activities and workshops Reach facilitators from Conestoga highlighting Métis history and the College, University of Waterloo and life of Louis Riel. Left to right: Guelph Mayor Cameron Guthrie, City Councilor Dominique O’Rourke, MNO GRMC Laurier University joined forces to The day began with a land ac- President Jennifer Parkinson, MPP Mike Schreiner and MNO citizen Paul Smith raise the Métis flag hold a Louis Riel Day Celebration at knowledgment by the museum’s during Louis Riel Day celebrations on Nov. 16. St. Paul’s College University of Wa- event coordinator Dave Neufeld, terloo. There was lots of food, fiddle and a prayer by MNO GRMC Sena- music and Métis games. tor Carol Lévis. Then MNO GRMC to Senator Lévis; tried finger weav- The group was also joined by Heart Catholic School also joined Around the city of Guelph, Métis President Jennifer Parkinson deliv- ing a bracelet with MNO GRMC Cambridge Councilor Donna Reid in to learn more about the Métis. flags were also flown for the first time ered a speech about Louis Riel and Chair Alicia Hamilton, Councilor and Mayor Doug Craig. Following After, the Grade 8 students joined at the Upper Grand District School the history of the Métis flag. Diane Kilby and Secretary Pandora the flag raising, students learned GRMC to learn how to finger weave. Board office, John F. Ross High Students bundled up and went Wilhelm; and enjoyed an interactive about the Métis sash, its uses, its Each student made a bracelet and School, The Wellington Catholic outside to raise the Métis flag in historical account of Louis Riel’s life, history and about finger weaving. learned about the Métis sash. MNO District School Board office and the front of the museum and enthusi- including why Métis celebrate Louis Louis Riel Day was a busy one this GRMC Women’s Representative Ontario Service building at 1 Stone astically cheered and waved mini Riel Day, led by President Parkinson year. It began with a flag raising out- Colleen Brunelle and her daughter, Rd. The MNO GRMC would like to Métis flags as the flag was raised to and Treasurer Leslie Muma. side Guelph City Hall, with special Stella Booth, not only mastered fin- thank the Upper Grand Indigenous the top of the pole. For the fourth time, on Nov. 15, guests Mayor Cameron Guthrie, ger weaving for the first time, they Board Liaison Colinda Clyne, Wel- Students also participated in Métis the Métis flag was raised at Cam- who was attending his fifth Riel were also a great help to President lington Catholic Indigenous Board games with MNO Family Wellness bridge City Hall. MNO GRMC Day celebration as Mayor, MPP Parkinson and Treasurer Muma in Liaison Val Marks and MNO citizen Coordinator Sam Cressman and was joined by Central Public School Mike Schreiner, community mem- teaching the students how to finger Paul Smith (1 Stone Road location MNO GRMC Councilor April La- Grade 6 students, who were eager to bers and city staff. Grade 3 students weave. and John F. Ross) for making this crouix-Bellinger; watched a video on share what they remembered from from Paisley Road Public School That afternoon, President Parkin- happen at these locations this year. Métis Games and asked questions last year’s event. and Grade 8 students from Sacred son, Treasurer Muma and MNO

Riel Day in Kingston submitted by Samantha Alkenbrack MNO Community Wellness Coordinator

n Nov. 16, MNO staff in Kingston hosted a celebration where about a dozen MNO citizens and com- Omunity members came together to honour (above) Finger-woven keychains Louis Riel and participate in cultural ac- created at Kingston’s Rile Day event. Left to right: Silvia Ursini, Employment and Social Development Canada Learning tivities. Consultant; Réjean Belcourt, Service Canada Indigenous Employees Circle member; Community members enjoyed a feast, Charlotte Lee, Employment and Social Development Canada Student Employee; Jean sharing stories and finger weaving key tha Alkenbrack and MNO Métis Healthy Teillet; Senator Reta Gordon and Natasha Bertrand, Indigenous Employees Circle Co- chains. The event was organized by MNO Babies Healthy Children Coordinator Joie Representative for the National Capital Region. Community Wellness Coordinator Saman- Ouderkirk.

Sharing Métis history on Riel Day Raising the submitted by group of Employment and Social Services Can- Natasha Bertrand, NCR Co-Representative, ada (ESDC) employees. Métis flag Indigenous Employees Circle Senator Gordon provided insightful and written by heartfelt opening and closing words and Teil- submitted by Réjean Belcourt let helped steer the crowd through her vast Marlene Greenwood knowledge of the Métis Nation. MNO North Bay Métis Council Senator ov. 16, 2018 marked 133 years since The ESDC Indigenous Employee Circle Louis Riel was hanged for treason by would like to thank Senator Gordon and Teillet MNO North Bay Métis Council raised the Government of Canada under for taking the time to educate government em- the Métis flag for Louis Riel Day at NPrime Minister Sir John A. Macdonald. ployees about the Métis. Through events like its city hall with North Bay Mayor Al To mark this date and celebrate the life of these, it hopes that the relationship between MacDonald. MNO North Bay Métis the great Métis leader, Métis Nation of Ontario the Government of Canada and Métis people Council Senator Marlene Greenwood (MNO) Honourary Senator Reta Gordon and will keep strengthening. had the honour of raising the flag, which Métis lawyer Jean Teillet presented, “The Métis As Senator Gordon said, “We can’t go for- was followed by a luncheon. Nation of the North-West” to an interested ward if we don’t know our past.” Métis Voyageur 22 Issue no. 102, August 2019

LOUIS RIEL DAY ACROSS THE PROVINCE MNO Windsor-Essex- Kent Métis Council marks Louis Riel Day submitted by Louis Riel Day provided the first oppor- Donna Grayer tunity for MNO WEKMCC representatives President to share new knowledge gained from cultural MNO Windsor-Essex-Kent Métis Council training as part of a council-wide initiative to learn an aspect of Métis culture that they may étis Nation of Ontario (MNO) not have known or grown up with. Windsor-Essex-Kent Métis Coun- “The MNO WEKMC took on the initia- cil (WEKMC) commemorated tive to have cultural training for each of the MLouis Riel Day with a celebration of Métis MNO citizens that take on the position of history and culture on Nov. 18. an elected official and the work involved as The event included breakfast, lunch, and a volunteers,” said Donna Grayer, MNO WEK- drum making workshop, as well as ornament MC President. “Council members should be making, dot art on bags and wood burning equipped to take on the responsibility of their workshops led by MNO Healing and Well- positions, and cultural training is as important ness staff. as understanding MNO governance.” Opening the day, MNO WEKMC Senator It’s the hope of the council that representa- Jim Turner said a prayer and shared a story tives will be able to share their knowledge and about Louis Riel, followed by a moment of time to further educate about Métis history, silence. culture and way of life with the entire council, MNO Region 9 Women’s Representative MNO citizens and members of the public Suzanne Jackson led the drum making work- when additional grants become available. shop for the council and MNO citizens based MNO WEKMC representatives have also on the teachings of Métis knowledge keeper applied for MNO Harvester Cards, as har- Leon Fleury. vesting is a part of Métis culture that can also Each drum maker was gifted with a tra- be shared. ditional drum stick from Elder Fleury and Additionally, MNO WEKMC Women’s The MNO Windsor-Essex-Kent Métis Council, including (left to right) Youth the council was gifted a drum from MNO Representative Sharlene Lance has begun Representative Katie Baltzer, President Donna Grayer, Senator Jim Turner, Councilor Veterans’ Council Women’s Representative weekly beading days, with starter kits available Robert Desjardins, Councilor Garry Lovell, Treasurer Jon Rochon, Women’s Shelly Claus. for those who attend. Simple Michif phrases Representative Sharlene Lance and council founder and Honorary Senator Wilfred The 10 new drums will be birthed in a spe- will also be taught, with resources and videos Rochon (seated), commemorated Louis Riel Day with a breakfast and lunch for MNO cial ceremony in 2019. from the MNO Education Branch. citizens. Absent from photo: Councilor Isaiah Grayer

MNO Toronto and York Region Métis Council hosts fifth annual Louis Riel Day submitted by Darlene Braz

he Métis Nation of On- tario (MNO) Toronto and York Region Métis Council T(TYRMC) hosted its fifth annu- al Louis Riel Day celebration on Saturday, Nov. 17. The event was held at the Native Canadian Cen- All Our Relations Métis Drum Circle performs during the MNO tre of Canada and was attended by Peterborough and District Wapiti Métis Council’s Louis Riel Celebration more than 100 guests throughout Lunch at the Canadian Canoe Museum in Peterborough on Nov. 18. the day. Guests enjoyed a feast of tacos, Three Sisters Soup, salad, wild blueberry jam and bannock, along Louis Riel Day celebrated with a variety of desserts served contributing member of the Prime Purpose. by the Toronto restaurant Tea-N- community and generously vol- In addition to the music and in Peterborough at Bannock. unteered his time supervising the dancing, cultural activities for chil- Those in attendance were led in council’s teepee at the Indian Res- dren were provided by Jennifer La- Canoe Museum a prayer by MNO citizen Suzanne idential Schools Survivors Legacy fontaine and Ojiibikens. Children Brunelle. MNO TYRMC Presi- Celebration hosted by the City of participated in screen-print t-shirt submitted by Peterborough City Councilor Keith dent Tera Beaulieu gave her open- Toronto in October. making, potato-block printing, Christa Lemelin, Chair Riel, Medical Officer of Health Dr. ing remarks, expressing thanks for Among the invited performers guessing games, and even created MNO Peterborough and District Rosana Salvaterra and staff from the the Mississauga’s of the New Credit for the day were guitar and fiddle a medicine bag. Wapiti Métis Council public and catholic school boards. First Nation and other Indigenous duo Alicia and Liam Blore and Attendees were also able to shop The celebration consisted of a peoples who have historically cared jiggers Kyle Burton and Meghan the Métis vendor market surround- n honour of Louis Riel Day, wonderful feast of bison and venison for the Toronto and York Region. Southwell, who led attendees in a ing the space and took home bun- the Métis Nation of Ontario and entertainment by All Our Re- She spoke about the events host- jigging workshop. dles of fresh vegetables from Fresh (MNO) Peterborough and Dis- lations Métis Drum Circle, formed ed by the council over the past few After a short break, the multi-tal- City Farms and a game meat give- Itrict Wapiti Métis Council hosted by women from the MNO Oshawa months, including the Powley Day ented Aqua Nibii Waawaaskone away from Whitehouse Meats. a Louis Riel Celebration Lunch on and Durham Region Métis Council, celebration in September and the hosted a drum circle and provid- The MNO TYRMC would like Nov. 18 at the Canadian Canoe Mu- and a fiddling/banjo duo of Luke Lands and Resources Symposium ed several instruments for attend- to thank all the community mem- seum in Peterborough. Mercier and Lotus Wight. and Annual General Meeting in ees to use and join her in song. bers who participated in making Attendees included MNO cit- Guests also had the opportunity October. Award-winning Métis singer-song- this event a joyous occasion of re- izens, family and friends of the to tour the museum, and get a view- She concluded by presenting the writer Amanda Rheaume closed membrance and gratitude for how community, as well as special guests ing of Louis Riel’s concertina that first MNO TYRMC Community the show with some of her music, far the Métis have progressed and Dawn Lavell-Harvard and Betty was graciously brought to the event Volunteer Award to Jim Morrison. including her song We Aspire, have advanced Louis Riel’s legacy Carr-Braint of Trent University by Susan Neale of the Peterborough Morrison has been a vibrant based on the MNO Statement of over the last 133 years. (First Peoples House of Learning), Museum and Archives. Métis Voyageur Issue no. 102, August 2019 23

CELEBRATE WITH THE MÉTIS NATION OF OONTNTAARIORIO

AGTH A2019 26 MNO ANNUAL GENERAL ASSEMBLY • AUGUST 23-25, SAULAULT STE.STE. MARIE, ONTONTARIOARIO See you in the Soo!

Every year, the citizens of the Métis Nation of Ontario hold our Annual General Assembly (AGA) where we gather together to conduct the business of the MNO, to celebrate our rich history, culture and way of life, pass on traditions to younger generations and future leaders and share our stories.

As the home of the Supreme Court of Canada’s landmark VOYAGEUR CANOE ARRIVAL decision on Métis rights in R. v. Powley, the Sault Ste. Marie region holds a special historical significance, not just for the As has been the MNO’s tradition, prior to the start of the Métis Nation in Ontario (MNO), but for Métis across Can- AGA, delegates will gather to cheer on the arrival of the ada. As the MNO continues to advance the Statement of voyageur canoes, paddled by MNO leadership, special Prime Purpose and longstanding mandate of rights, self-de- guests and other dignitaries. This year, the canoes arrive on termination and self-government it is difficult to imagine the Thursday, August 22 at 6:30 pm, at Bellevue Park on the political landscape for today’s Métis without the contribu- north shore of the St. Mary’s River. tions of the Sault Ste. Marie Métis community. This celebrat- ed site is considered a “hidden gem” in Ontario, offering TRADE SHOW, CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES scenic views, vast wilderness and friendly locals eager to & MUCH MORE introduce you to the “Soo”. A trade show will be held at the Quattro Hotel, starting on AGA IS OPEN TO ALL CITIZENS Friday, August 23 through to the end of the AGA on Sun- day, August 25. Adult-supervised children’s activities will The MNO AGA is open to all MNO citizens, whether or not be available for the delegates’ children starting on Friday they have been designated by a local Community Council through to the end of the AGA on Sunday, August 25. to attend.

The venue for the AGA will be the Quattro Hotel steps away More details and announcements about even more from downtown attractions. For those interested in camping activities are posted on the MNO website. options, please email [email protected] and infor- If you have any questions please email mation on available camping sites will be emailed to you. [email protected]. Map of AGA Venues

Contributions for business plans and ongoing Rates & security support customized to Financing up promote Métis to $1,000,000 business success for resources and related sector businesses

mvdf.ca Métis Voyageur 24 Issue no. 102, August 2019

Our Métis History, Our Stories:

In 2017, the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) released the Métis Root Ancestors project, which included the research, review and compilation of more than 100,000 historical records to identify Métis Root ancestors from historic Métis communities in Ontario. Today, the MNO is beginning to share some of their stories, as told by their descendants:

Catherine M. McPherson (1872-?)

Duncan Thomas (1871-?)

nland from Rainy River Mary McPherson at the mouth of Lake of (1875-1897) the Woods is what’s left Murdoch A. McPherson of Hungry Hall, a once Ancestor (1876-?) bustling fur trade out- George McPherson

post. For many fur traders, Sr., who was present at the Patrick O’Connor it was just a trading post, but signing of Treaty Three in North-West (1867-?)

to Ontario Métis root ances- Angle, and worked as an interpreter. Sarah Jane McPherson tors, it was also home. Now, it’s a key His son, George McPherson Jr., was a (1878-?) Métis geographic hub in the Lake of factor with the Hudson Bay Company, George McPherson John Dugald McPherson the Woods area. working in Fort Alexander, Mattawa, (1845-?) (1880-?) I Margaret MNO citizen Floyd Triskle remem- Eagles Nest and Rat Portage. Before (1833-?) bers being told how it got its name. It retiring, he settled in Rat Portage (Ke- Sophia Morriseau Margaret St.Pierre (1853-?) (1883-?) happened when a group of voyageurs nora) for a time, and also moved into George McPherson (1814-?) arrived after overturning their canoes. Sabaskosing Bay. According to a local William Allen Boucher The group went straight to his grand- museum, he was the first resident of Elizabeth (1877-?) (?) mother, Sarah Jane McPherson, for Kenora. Margaret McPherson Martha Harriet McPherson (1841-?) food. It was George and Sophia Morri- (1882-?) “They swamped the canoes out there seau’s daughter, Sarah Jane McPher- and lost their food, so they come to son, who helped inspire the name of Sophia Bella McPherson see grandma, but she couldn’t feed that Hungry Hall. (1887-?) many people,” Triskle remembered. Her descendants remember stories George Cook (?) Built in 1825, abandoned in 1834 of her skinning animals with a butter and used again in 1863 as an outpost, knife, hunting with her grandchildren Ida Flora McPherson the grounds hold the memories and and of never speaking about being (1885-1896) history of the McPhersons, O’Connors Métis. and the Morriseaus. These families are “I think of my grandmother, who Daniel McPherson still firmly rooted in the area. wouldn’t speak of being Métis and had (1892-1935) “We have a long history in the re- to hide her darker skin, but I want her Mary Hester gion. We are fortunate voice to come alive and (1895-?) that we come from a not be quiet,” Sandy Agnes Sophia Dartha long Métis family line said. McPherson (1896-1933)

of the Morriseaus and “From what I under- Harry James Brown the Mcphersons, who They swamped stand my great-grand- (?) came together,” said Pro- the canoes out mother Sarah Jane was visional Council of the there and lost a very feisty old lady Métis Nation of Ontar- their food, so that was very strong. io (PCMNO) Region 1 She hunted on the land, Councilor Theresa Sten- they come to see she fished on the land, lund. “Our families trav- grandma, but she she did all of her own elled the lakes and rivers couldn’t feed that trapping, took care of in the whole territory - many people ... many kids, plus she also the Lake of the Woods took care of some of the area, Rainy River area, grandkids that moved up north into Manitoba into the house, and she and the Red River area.” didn’t stop until the day In fact, the descen- she died. dants of the McPhersons and Mor- “She was a fighter and it’s in our riseaus still own the land adjacent to blood. We are there and we are proud where the outpost stood. On a map Métis and we need to advance and created when establishing a reserve, move forward and make those voices 160 acres were carved out for Michel alive.” Morriseau, who was listed as the Inter- Her legacy lives on in the traditions preter in charge of Hungry Hall from still practiced by her descendants. 1868-1871. This ensured their place at Stenlund remembers being a young Hungry Hall forever. child and being brought to the trap- Métis descendants still fish there in ping cabin, where they would live off the summer, harvest in the fall and the land, pick berries and learn about share memories of growing up there. the trees and other plants. MNO Region 1 Captain of the Hunt “As a youngster, with a beaver pelt Sandy Triskle, whose dad (Floyd) is the or whatever animal it happened to brother of Stenlund’s grandfather, said be, you were assisting or helping, and their ancestors were fur tradesman, maybe being a nuisance, but they were fishermen and lighthouse keepers. teaching us and continuing those tra- The responsibility for the lighthouse ditions,” Stenlund said. was passed down through the family. Stenlund did the same with her chil- “The family all did it together on Sa- dren, even as babies in her arms, bring- ble Island just out from Hungry Hall,” ing them hunting, fishing and teaching said Sandy, who is also the Treasurer of them Métis way of life, so that they can the MNO Kenora Métis Council. bring that with them. Stenlund and Sandy trace their Métis So they will know who they are and ancestry back to Ontario Métis Root where they come from. ∞ Issue no. 102, August 2019

COMMUNITY SECTION

#MYHarvest Follow along as Métis youth share stories about harvesting

From maple syrup tapping and sweetgrass basket making to chaga mushroom harvesting, #MYHarvest means hard work for #MYHarvest means finding new ways Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Youth are sharing what harvesting means to them. year-round enjoyment. I absolutely to appreciate Mother Earth each and Follow #MYHarvest on Facebook and Instagram for photos and stories shared by Métis youth, as part of the MNO Youth Council’s Infinite Potential Strategy. love picking blueberries! every day! The strategy is focused on building a strong and connected Métis youth community and developing province-wide initiatives through working groups. The working groups focus on #MYHarvest means spending quality #MYHarvest means late nights, hip health and well-being, environment, language and culture, nation-building and education. time with my niece as we harvest waders, nets and a feed of smelts The #MYHarvest campaign is part of a contest, and is the first initiative put forward by birchbark. with friends and family. the environmental working group, which hopes to encourage youth to connect with the land, share their experiences and teach others land-based knowledge. ∞ #MYHarvest means spending time Harvesting isn’t just a hobby for my outside with the ones I love.” family, it’s a lifestyle. For more visit the MNOYC Facebook page or email: [email protected]. Métis Voyageur 2 Issue no. 102, August 2019 Ballad of the Battle Buddies MNO citizens take part in Exercise Collaborative Spirit submitted by ran for cover and took turns firing Colleen Brunelle at enemy targets. MNO Grand River Métis Council “While it was an adrenaline-in- Women’s Representative fused flurry of activity, I have a newfound respect for today’s soldier trio from Métis Nation of who pulls that off under more real- Ontario (MNO) communi- istic circumstances,” said Brunelle. ty councils spent a day with What followed was a highlight for theA Canadian Armed Forces during many. The group was transported by Exercise Collaborative Spirit 2018. a Boeing CH-47 Chinook helicop- Diversity Recruiter Sgt. Ray ter from the field, across the Otta- Starks extended invitations to In- wa River and back to have dinner digenous community influencers to with the troops at CFB Petawawa. engage in the annual exercise, along- Without a doubt, grandbabies will side senior members of the public hear about the time their mémères service and leaders from Canada’s got to play soldier for a day and fly business community. in a Chinook! Honorary soldiers MNO Cred- Back at camp, they were treated it River Métis Council Women’s to a feast – complete with s’mores Representative Tobias Clarke, and strawberry juice. The day was MNO Grand River Métis Council a fabulous success – as evidenced Representative April LaCroix-Bell- by the resounding laughter at din- inger and MNO Grand River Mé- ner as the events of the day were tis Council Representative Colleen recounted. Brunelle were the lucky participants “We laughed to tears at such great in this memory-making and educa- memories made,” said Brunelle. tional opportunity. On the way home the next day, The objective was to garner a Sgt. Ray Starks relayed information deeper appreciation of the expertise MNO Grand River Métis Council’s Colleen Brunelle, MNO Credit River Métis Council Women’s Rep about the programs and opportu- of Canadian soldiers and how their Tobias Clarke and First Nations student Andie Albert experienced life as a Canadian soldiers during nities offered to Métis, Inuit, and skills and capabilities support a vari- Exercise Collaborative Spirit 2018. Absent from the photo is MNO Grand River Métis Councilor April First Nations. With no obligation to ety of missions at home and abroad. LaCroix-Bellinger. join afterward, and no cost. Those In addition, Sgt. Starks explained a opportunities include: Summer variety of Aboriginal Training and a LAV 6 armored vehicles and were boats, participants ran up the beach, training programs, the Canadian Recruitment opportunities. escorted to a firing range where they firing blanks and fetching injured Forces Aboriginal Entry Program Their adventure took place at all had a chance to experience Ca- soldiers after a fighter jet dropped and Aboriginal Leadership Oppor- Canadian Forces Base Petawawa. nadian Forces weaponry first hand. It was at this moment smoke bombs overhead. tunities Year. Early the first morning, participants Shooting automatic rifles, light ma- From the beach they made their For further information, contact gathered for breakfast and were then chine guns, grenade launchers, LAV that I for one, way to a village, which was set up Sgt. Ray Starks: 1-226-346-0790 or outfitted with 20 lbs. of gear and a III (Coyote), TAPV’s, and LAV 6‘s realized that my Métis to simulate what Canadian soldiers email [email protected]. C-7 rifle. were remarkable experiences. They companions get excited might encounter on overseas mis- The participants (The Battle “It was at this moment that I for also watched a sniper demonstra- sions. Manning the perimeter, par- Buddies) would like to extend their one, realized that my Métis com- tion, the firing of an anti-tank gun about shooting stuff. ticipants were instructed to watch deepest gratitude to Sgt. Starks for panions get excited about shooting and cannon. for subtle changes in the people allowing them to partake in Exercise stuff,” said Brunelle. Later, they took part in “Taking milling around. It quickly escalated Collaborative Spirit 2018. ∞ After a group briefing, they rode the Beach”. Approaching in assault into pandemonium and participants

Cooking with the MNO Niagara Region Métis Council

MNO citizen retired major Don Kennedy represented MNO veterans at a recent Canadian citizenship ceremony in Hamilton that was presided over by his wife Hoojung Jones Kennedy. Métis veteran welcomes new Canadians submitted by Don, wearing the Métis sash and of Citizenship from HooJung Jones Jerry Clarke the Louis Riel Medal, reaffirmed Kennedy, Don’s wife, who is a vol- President his allegiance along with the new unteer presiding official at the citi- MNO Clear Waters Métis Council Canadians. He told the new citizens zenship ceremonies. Recently, she On Jan. 26, and Feb. 2, the MNO Niagara Region Métis Council about the importance of veterans was awarded the Sovereign’s Medal and Senator Gary Laframboise hosted two Métis cooking class- n Oct. 23, Métis Nation to the defense of freedom and how for Volunteers for her advocacy of es. Thanks to a grant from the Niagara Region, this workshop of Ontario (MNO) citizen Métis, First Nations and Inuit have Korean War veterans. was offered at no cost to Métis citizens. Each participant cooked retired major Don Kenne- helped shape Canada into the great As HooJung will preside at future homemade chicken noodle soup, shepherd’s pie and a pudding Ody represented Métis veterans at a nation that it is today. citizenship ceremonies, Don will for dessert. Everyone left with the tools, recipes and ingredients to Canadian citizenship ceremony in A total of 58 new Canadians continue to represent Métis veter- make these recipes again at home. Hamilton. from 22 countries took the Oath ans and welcome new Canadians. ∞ submitted by Kelsey Dick, MNO citizen Métis Voyageur Issue no. 102, August 2019 3 MNO Grand River Métis Council participates in rare ecological experience submitted by Colleen Brunelle MNO Grand River Métis Council Women’s Representative

s part of their Annual Gen- eral Meeting on Sept. 8, 2018 Métis Nation of On- tarioA (MNO) Grand River Métis Council helped tag local migrating monarch butterflies to help conser- vation research. The work was led by University of MNO Grand River Métis Council Guelph PhD student Alana Wilcox, members and MNO citizens who is conducting studies on the gather to catch and tag monarch environmental contaminants and butterflies. stressors which affect local ecosys- tems - with a particular focus on the fir forests of Oyamel, Mexico. Neonicotinoid insecticides largely sticker number and the butterfly’s Environmental engagement op- impacts to the monarch butterfly. Wilcox talked to participants affecting honey bee populations gender was recorded (Male mon- portunities like this allowed for par- Wilcox guided and instructed par- about how this migratory phenom- are also impacting monarch pop- arch’s possess black spots on their ticipants to connect with nature and ticipants on how to catch and tag enon is under threat due to a reduc- ulations. hindwings). All of the data was later promoted a sense of stewardship in the butterflies that were about to tion in milkweed and nectar sources, The monarchs were tagged with uploaded to the Monarch Watch da- protecting this species at risk. Many begin their 4,000 kilometer migra- climate change, urbanization and small adhesive stickers placed on tabase, a not-for-profit educational of those who participated vowed to tion from Southern Ontario to the the use of agricultural chemicals. their hindwings. Prior to release, the outreach program. plant more milkweed next spring. ∞

MNO Grand River Métis Council offers beaded poppy workshop submitted by Diane Kilby, Councilor MNO Grand River Métis Council

oved by the growing popularity of Mbeaded poppies and inspired by the sacrifices of Métis veterans, the Métis Na- (Front row, left to right) President Yvonne Jensen, Jena Descoteaux, Morgan Jensen, tion of Ontario (MNO) Grand River Métis Women’s Representative Michelle McCoy Smith, Councillor Reg Bennett. (Back row, left Council held two beaded poppy workshops. to right) Councillor Pete Descoteaux, Senator Fern McCoy, Chair Allen St. Pierre, PCMNO On Nov. 7, in Kitchener, and on Nov. Region 4 Councilor Ernie Gatien, Captain of the Hunt Art Bennett, Councillor Roly 28, in Guelph, members of council, using Blanchette and Secretary-Treasurer Todd Showan. individual beading kits prepared by its dedicated volunteers, shared Métis beading culture and instructions with several dozen enthusiastic citizens and allies. MNO Grand River Métis Council MNO North Channel Métis Especially heart-warming and rewarding (GRMC) Councilor Pat St. John was the number of allies who came out after looks on as MNO GRMC Treasurer Council holds successful AGM attending an earlier beading outreach ini- Leslie-Anne Muma gets a beaded tiative, Bridges, with the City of Waterloo, poppy started during a workshop. Submitted by PCMNO Councilor Gatien followed by which had been organized by MNO citizen Yvonne Jensen, President welcoming everyone present and providing a Dr. John Lewis. ∞ MNO North Channel Métis Council summary of all the activities in Region 4 over the past year. n Nov. 4, 83 people attended the Mé- MNO NCMC invited guest speakers from tis Nation of Ontario (MNO) North Parks Canada - Svenja Hansen, Pamela Jalak, MNO Timmins launches Channel Métis Council (NCMC) An- Jeanette Cowen and Elia Marini - who pro- Onual General Meeting (AGM). vided information for attendees. MNO citi- Among the guests were all members of the zens enjoyed a short film on Métis and the Aging at Home program MNO NCMC, Provisional Council of the Mé- Parks Canada representatives discussed their tis Nation of Ontario Region 4 Councilor Er- involvement in gathering the history of Métis submitted by the bank and/or the grocery store. nie Gatien, Captain of the Hunt Art Bennett, and how to distribute it to the general public. Jacqueline Bouchard Staff can also help find other support Region 4 Women’s Representative June Smart, They also spoke about Fort St. Joseph and the MNO Aging at Home Coordinator services and provide information to help MNO Métis Family Well Being Coordinator Sault Canal. improve seniors’ health and wellbeing. Cynthia Sopher, MNO Region 4 Youth Rep- Guest Mona Jones, from the Huron Superior he Métis Nation of Ontario Contracted services for grass cutting and resentative Taylor McNally and representatives Catholic School Board from Sault Ste. Marie, (MNO) Aging at Home program snow removal are also available. of the MNO Historic Sault Ste. Marie Métis informed the citizens about how important it is now offered through the MNO During 2017-2018, the Aging at Home Council, including Senator Brenda Powley, is to have children self-identify. She stressed the Toffice in Timmins. Program, which is offered at 13 different Chair John Konawalchuk, Councilor Dianne importance of knowing how many Métis, First The program supports Indigenous se- offices across the province, assisted more Beaudry, Women’s Representative Shirley Lou- Nation and Inuit are in the schools and talked niors (55 years of age or older) so they can than 30 clients. bert and former councilor Ken Figures. about new programs offered in some schools. continue to live independently in their For more information about the Aging MNO NCMC Senator Fern McCoy began The council also passed a motion to change homes for as long as possible. at Home Program in the Timmins area the AGM with a beautiful prayer, asking all the election time from every two years to every The program provides individuals with contact: attendees to join hands. four years, which will come into effect after home care services such as: bath prepara- MNO NCMC President Yvonne Jensen wel- MNO NCMC’s next election. tion, light housekeeping, laundry and meal Jacqueline Bouchard comed everyone present and introduced all of Citizens also enjoyed a beautiful meal made preparation. 347 Spruce Street South the guests. The new council, elected earlier this by A Touch of Home. Gifts were provided for The MNO Aging at Home program staff Timmins, ON year, was presented with a sash to welcome all of the citizens to thank them for attend- can also coordinate friendly visits to help 705-264-3939 ext. 225 council members and show appreciation for ing and listening and for the speakers who with loneliness and schedule transporta- 1-888-497-3939 all of their work and dedication. attended. ∞ tion to and from medical appointments, [email protected] Métis Voyageur 4 Issue no. 102, August 2019 Honourary Senator and MNO Ottawa Region Métis Councilor present Métis history and culture submitted by Benny Michaud Past-President, MNO Ottawa Region Métis Council written by Jennifer B. Lord Senior Policy Advisor Women of the Métis Nation

étis Nation of Ontar- especially touching as she asked io (MNO) Honourary participants to follow along as she Senator Reta Gordon presented the history and journey Mand MNO Ottawa Region Métis of her own family through pho- Councillor Marie Louise Perron tographs, archived journal entries greeted public servants and provid- and a table full of family keepsakes ed information about Métis history and artifacts, including a handmade and culture at the Status of Women fiddle. Canada office in Gatineau on Nov. The session also focused on rec- 8, 2018. onciliation, not only within the Grandmother Gordon (as she federal government, but also how prefers to be called), opened the individuals can complete their own session with a lesson on thanks and reconciliations. gratitude to the Creator for the “best At the end of the session, partici- day” ahead. pants were provided a hand-painted Councilor Perron provided an stone with the Métis infinity symbol overview of the history Métis peo- to remind all to consider and in- ple and their culture in both official clude the Métis in their program- languages. This presentation was ming and policy work.

On Nov. 8, MNO Honourary Senator Reta Gordon and MNO Ottawa Region Métis Councilor Marie Louis Perron presented information about the history and culture of the Métis to federal public servants. (From left to right) Manager of Engagement for Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada Monique Lucie Sauriol, Senior Policy Advisor Women of the Métis Nation Jennifer B. Lord, MNO Honourary Senator Reta Gordon, MNO Ottawa Region Métis Councilor Marie Louise Perron and Senior Program Officer for Status of Women Canada Germaine Chazou-Essindi. Métis artists Deer hide prepared for collaborate on community projects submitted by fur trade display Greg Garratt Region 7 Captain of the Hunt Submitted by completion. Alden Barty The members of the MNO Geor- étis Nation of Ontario MNO Consultation Coordinator gian Bay Traditional Territory Con- (MNO) citizens from sultation Committee would like to the MNO Georgian étis Nation of Ontario thank everyone for their participa- MBay Métis Council (GBMC) area M(MNO) citizens enjoy noth- tion, generosity, acts of kindness, travelled through a snowstorm to ing more than a good challenge. So countless hours of work and genuine attend a deer hide workshop led when the Organization of Canadian sense of Métis pride. by Region 7 Captain of the Hunt Nuclear Industries requested Métis The Métis artwork display was Greg Garratt on Jan. 28. artwork for their offices in Port El- made possible by: During the workshop, the gin, Ont. the call went out for help. deer hide was fleshed and pre- The theme of the display would be • Hooped Beaver Pelt pared so that it could be used for the fur trade. Rob and Cynthia Bartlett, glove making, other crafts and To no one’s surprise, the MNO Region 3 even tanning. Georgian Bay Traditional Territo- • Beaded Paddle Garratt spoke about tradi- ry Consultation Committee was Vicki Jenkins, Region 7 tional practices of brain tanning, overwhelmed with citizens’ eager • Beaver Artwork smoke tanning, fur removal and responses to put together a display Marilyn and Leah Prisque, short-term preservation using representative of Métis traditions Region 7 salt. and way of life. Over the past six • Sashes, Flag and Fiddle Traditional tools and methods months, individuals from Region MNO Georgian Bay were discussed, such as using 3 and Region 7 came together to Traditional Territory edged bones for fleshing, as well collaborate and bring the project to Consultation Committee as a variety of more contempo- rary methods. “I am so grateful I got to learn how to clean a deer hide with Greg Garratt Captain of the Hunt Region 7,” said MNO Georgian Bay Métis Councilor Justin Dumont said. “As chair Region 7 Captain of the Hunt Greg Garratt, Vicki Jenkins and MNO of the Harvesters Committee Georgian Bay Métis Councilor Justin Dumont help prepare a deer for the MNO GBMC, I hope hide for future crafts on Jan. 28. we can do many more with the citizens.” tunity and the invite to participate carded, harvested hides.” As usual when Métis commu- in a little deer scraping activity this Hides were provided by various nities get together big or small, afternoon,” said Gary DuBeau fol- harvesters who wanted to see them there was friendly discussion lowing the workshop. “It was good used by the community rather than about the MNO Harvesting to see that some will still challenge discarded. MNO Great Lakes Métis Council President Peter Coture, OCNI Bruce Policy, using feathers for crafts, not only a winter day, but also a Almost a dozen were donated this County/Bruce Power Liaison Alison Fernandes, MNO Georgian fishing and so much more. It was deer hide. I was able to share in year, some for use by other MNO Bay Métis Council President Greg Garratt, and PCMNO Region 7 a great Métis social time. some good conversations about the Chartered Community Councils for Councillor David Dusome showcase their creations. “I was grateful for the oppor- processing of, the mostly today dis- their own educational events. ∞ Métis Voyageur Issue no. 102, August 2019 5

Family Engagement Day at MNO Windsor office submitted by Layne Hoskins, Métis Family Wellbeing Coordinator

recent Family Engagement Day at the Métis Na- tion of Ontario (MNO) office in Windsor brought together families to share stories, make memories, haveA fun and learn something new. Sixteen people attended the event, which was hosted by the Métis Family Wellbeing and Community Wellness programs on Feb. 21. Participants used their creativity to design their very own works of art using tape and paint to make patterns on their Sixteen people created their canvas. The activity was led by community member Jordyn very own works of art during Mills. There were also plenty of games and opportunities to Family Engagement Day at win a prize. ∞ the MNO office in Windsor. MNO Grand River Métis Council builds bridges submitted by The workshop was part of the of the history and art of the Métis. Diane Kilby City of Waterloo learning program About 50 youth and seniors, from a MNO Grand River Métis Council called Bridges, which offers inter- wide range of backgrounds, came to generational learning activities to listen to a presentation about Métis étis Nation of Ontario promote sharing of knowledge, skills history delivered by MNO GRMC (MNO) Grand River or life experiences. The activities are President Jennifer Parkinson and Métis Council (GRMC) funded through a Government of participate in the activities. More than 60 people turned out for the MNO Grand River Métis Mhelped build bridges within the Canada grant. They also enjoyed a menu of pea Council Christmas feast on Dec. 8. community by teaching Métis his- MNO citizen Professor John soup and wild rice with cranberry tory, beading and dot art to seniors Lewis identified this program as an made by Professor Lewis. ∞ and youth on Nov. 5. ideal opportunity to introduce some MNO Grand River Métis Council Christmas feast

submitted by expected. The council rose to the Diane Kilby, Councilor challenge to satisfy the appetites MNO Grand River Métis Council of all who attended. There were also activities and étis Nation of Ontario games for kids and adults. One (MNO) Grand River particular historic Métis game Métis Council invited brought out the competitive spirits MMNO citizens and allies to join of some of the adults. them in a celebratory Christmas The council was pleased with feast on Dec. 8. the success of the day and is plan- The council was able to rally af- ning more feasts for 2019! Noth- ter more than 60 people attended, ing beats good food, good music MNO Grand River Métis Council taught Métis beading and dot art to youth and seniors on Nov. 5. which was almost double what was and good companionship. ∞ Hampers spread holiday cheer in Timmins submitted by tion and stress during the holidays season festive. we wouldn’t have had much of a Louise Cloutier by preparing the Christmas ham- Each Christmas hamper deliv- Christmas,” said one client. MNO Community Support Services pers for several clients. ered was greeted with a big smile Staff from the MNO Com- Coordinator The hampers were delivered to Without the Christmas and a thank you. munity Support Services, Métis 20 Métis families the week before hamper we wouldn’t have The hampers were well received Family Wellbeing, Community étis Nation of Ontario Christmas. and clients said it provided an op- Wellness Worker, Métis Healthy (MNO) Health and They included items such as tur- had much of a Christmas portunity for a great meal, and in Babies Healthy Children and Ag- Wellness staff in Tim- keys, hams, potatoes, fresh vegeta- some cases allowed them to pur- ing at Home programs were all Mmins had the privilege of addressing bles, stuffing, cranberry sauce and chase a few gifts for their families. involved in the initiative. ∞ the impacts of poverty, poor nutri- all the fixings to help make their “Without the Christmas hamper Métis Voyageur 6 Issue no. 102, August 2019 MNO Toronto and York Region Métis Council holds fifth Annual General Meeting submitted by Métis North-West Resistance of Kezia Picard 1885. She shared some stories of MNO Toronto and York Region her ancestors and how they inspired Métis Council her to write. She spoke about her great-great grandmother Margue- he Métis Nation of On- rite Dumas, who told Louis Riel if tario (MNO) Toronto and he didn’t send ammunition to their York Region Métis Council men at the Battle of Tourond’s T(TYRMC) held its fifth Annual Coulee, she’d go herself and her General Meeting (AGM) at the Mc- paternal great-great-great grandfa- Michael Canadian Art Collection in ther, Pierre Parenteau Senior, who the York Region. was Chairman of Riel’s Provisional The meeting, held Oct. 28, pro- Government. vided MNO citizens the chance to She also shared her journey of learn about past activities and future discovering her family history and plans of the MNO TYRMC and to Métis identity as she was doing re- contribute any thoughts or ideas. search for her book, kicking off a The AGM was officially called to discussion about the need to tell our order by Chair Todd Ross. President MNO Toronto and York Region Métis Council held its Annual General Meeting on Oct. 28. (left to right) stories as Métis people. Tera Beaulieu then welcomed those MNO TYRMC Councilor Kezia Picard, Women’s Representative Shirley Debassige, President Tera Beaulieu, MNO TYRMC would like to ex- in attendance. Métis author Maia Caron, Chair Todd Ross, Secretary-Treasurer Marilyn Hew and Councilor Mike Berg. press its sincere thanks to the MNO Reports were brought forward staff and to the Toronto and York by council representatives who lead representation on Indigenous Ad- also unveiled its new mission state- statement, which is “Métis people Region citizens and community on various committees. Key initia- visory Circles within Toronto and ment, which is “As part of the Métis and the community of Toronto and members for joining in celebrating tives for 2019 include growing the York Region. Nation, we represent Métis people York region are thriving, culturally its work over the past year, as well council’s social media presence, The council also hopes to de- in Toronto and York regions. We vibrant and woven together like the as providing direction and guidance searching for new media outlets for velop new relationships with lands aspire to provide cultural continu- threads of our sash.” for the coming year. It greatly looks publications, hosting a drum circle and resource partners and host new ity, education and build healthy and The AGM keynote address was forward to increasing Métis presence and a Rendezvous in 2019, building community-based events with the reciprocal relationships in the spirit given by MNO citizen Maia Caron. in the Toronto and York Region. ∞ relationships with post-secondary help of three grants. of reconciliation.” Caron is the author of Song of Ba- institutions and sustaining Métis At the AGM, MNO TYRMC As well, it revealed a new vision toche, a historical fiction about the Our Brothers’ Voyage

submitted by Healing blankets represented love Terry Lynn Longpre and bravery. The Métis dot art and MNO Community Wellness Worker talking sticks represented honesty and wisdom. Medicine bags and series of eight workshops, medicine walk symbolized respect aimed at encouraging men and truth. to speak out against vio- While working on the craft, par- lenceA in their communities, took ticipants discussed the teachings and place throughout November and also creating “good ripples,” which December at the Métis Nation of are achievable exercises that the men Ontario (MNO) office in Thorold. will be able to carry out in their own The workshops, called Our communities. MNO Georgian Bay Métis Council is shovel-ready for planting white oak trees on Georgian Bay Brothers’ Voyage, each focused on Participants were fully committed Island National Parks property. one of the seven sacred teachings to the series, learned cultural craft- and were related to a Métis specific ing and also gained insight into vio- cultural craft. lence in their communities and how When moccasins were made, to speak out. ∞ White oak trees planted participants discussed humility. by MNO Georgian Bay Métis Council submitted by Several sugar maples where also Larry J. Ferris planted and as Métis know, there MNO Georgian Bay Métis are never enough sugar maples in Council Chair the spring. The council has planted butter- he Métis Nation of nuts, chestnuts and elm, as well Ontario (MNO) Geor- as many other important species gian Bay Métis Council on Parks property to be sure that T(GBMC) completed another these trees don’t disappear. tree planting with Georgian Bay MNO GBMC’s other partner Islands National Parks. was Ontario Power Generation, Several large white oaks trees, which financed the project. which are endangered, were Without them, none of this planted on Parks property, pro- would have been possible. viding the trees with a safe place MNO GBMC would like to grow for generations. to thank its President David These trees were ready to Dusome, Chairperson Gwen produce acorns and will provide Lindsey and PCMNO Senator a seed orchard to promote gener- Ray Bergie for coming out and Participants in the MNO’s Our Brothers’ Voyage workshops show off ational growth of a forest on the supporting this effort.∞ PCMNO Region 7 Councilor the talking sticks they made during one of the eight sessions held at surrounding property. David Dusome breaking ground. the MNO office in Thorold. Métis Voyageur Issue no. 102, August 2019 7 MNO Grand River Métis Council offers workshops on self-defense and baking

Submitted by Colleen Brunelle MNO Grand River Métis Council Women’s Representative

n June 16 and 17 Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Grand River Métis Coun- Ocil (GRMC) offered workshops on self-defense and diabetic baking. Women’s Representative for MNO GRMC Colleen Brunelle Healthy Bites organized two days of workshops courtesy of with Royal Canadian Mounted Cpl. Cheryle Hayden Police (RCMP) Métis Liaison Cpl. Cheryle Hayden in partnership with Ingredients: MNO Family Wellness Coordinator 4 ripe bananas Sam Cressman. 1 cup quick oats The workshops were chosen by ½ cup sugar free chocolate chips citizens through a social media poll 3 heaping tbsps. natural chunky using a host of potential training peanut butter subjects offered by Cpl. Hayden. ½ cup diced dates During the Women’s Self-Defense ½ cup unsweetened cranberries and Personal Safety workshop, par- ½ cup large flake unsweetened ticipants had the opportunity to coconut learn how to protect themselves in Participants in the Women’s Self-Defense and Personal Safety workshop learn how to protect 1/3 cup roasted pumpkin seeds the event of a physical confronta- themselves during a physical confrontation. The workshop was hosted by MNO Grand River Métis ¼ cup pea protein tion. Participants ranged in age from Council and taught by RCMP Métis Liaison Cpl. Cheryle Hayden. ¼ cup chia seed eight years old to seniors as people of all physical fitness levels were also shared that their new-found community with diabetes and pre- Council would like to thank Cpl. Directions: welcomed. knowledge empowered them to diabetes to understand baking with Hayden and MNO Family Well- Mix it all together, roll into balls Women were educated in the ba- feel less anxious in certain situa- sugar substitutes and healthy alter- ness Coordinator Sam Cressman in and flatten slightly. Place on sic techniques to disable an attacker. tions moving forward. natives. This hands-on workshop assisting us to offer these learning cookie sheet lightly coated with The focus was on taking advantage The second workshop, Healthy involved baking in the kitchen and opportunities in such a fun and en- cooking spray. Back at 350 for 15 of the time and space needed to Choices and Diabetic Tips, was a copy of the Healthy Bites recipe. gaging way. ∞ minutes. Yield: approx. 15 pieces. make a quick escape. Participants offered to help those living in the The MNO Grand River Métis

Healthy food items were the prizes for Nutrition Bingo at the MNO office in Windsor on Jan. 22. MNO nutrition bingo held in Windsor submitted by the booklet and plate with their family and Audrey Bayliss friends to help spread knowledge on the im- MNO Community Wellness Coordinator portance of living a healthy lifestyle. All participants had the opportunity to en people gathered to play Nutrition win a variety of food items to take home MNO North Channel Bingo at the Métis Nation of On- and prepare healthy meals for themselves or tario (MNO) office in Windsor, on their families. TJan. 22. The event was hosted by MNO Com- Métis Council organizes To play, participants designed their own munity Wellness Program and Métis Family bingo cards during a discussion on healthy Wellbeing Program. food choices. MNO Community Wellness Coordina- lotion workshop Everyone was given the Canada’s Food tor Audrey Bayliss and MNO Métis Fam- MNO North Channel Métis Council organized a lotion workshop for the Métis community Guide Eat Well Plate, which shows how a ily Wellbeing Coordinator Layne Hoskins on March 4. The workshop began with a meal from Touch of Home and then the fun healthy meal should be divided into fruits already plan to work on designing a similar began. Everyone went home with a jar of their choice of lotion, using different oils, and vegetables, whole grains and protein, as event next winter to bring participants to- beeswax and essential oils. Organized by the council’s Women’s Representative Michelle well as a booklet from the Erie St. Clair Re- gether during the bleak mid-winter weather McCoy, she enlisted the help of local business Ojibway Natural to teach participants. The gional Cancer Program called Your Health and provide nutritional reminders on how to workshop was instructed by Nangoons Wabegijig. Submitted by Yvonne Jensen, MNO Matters. prepare and eat a holistic diet. ∞ North Channel Métis Council President Participants were encouraged to discuss Métis Voyageur 8 Issue no. 102, August 2019 MNO Ottawa Region Métis Council marks Powley and Remembrance days submitted by (left) Benny Michaud The MNO Ottawa Region Métis Past President Council held a Powley Day event MNO Ottawa Region Métis Council with founding President Tony Belcourt as the guest speaker. he Métis Nation of Ontar- io (MNO) Ottawa Region Métis Council (ORMC) Thad an active fall season with events commemorating the Powley deci- sion and Remembrance Day. of all veterans and places special em- MNO ORMC representatives phasis on Indigenous ones. The cer- and MNO citizens met at the Wa- emony included women drumming bano Centre in Ottawa to mark and singing and the MNO Veterans’ Powley Day on Sept. 23, 2018. Council presented a wreath on be- Tony Belcourt, founding Presi- half of the MNO. dent of the MNO, was the distin- The MNO ORMC and the guished guest of honour. He pro- MNO Veterans’ Council were vided his firsthand account of the honoured to be joined by Canadian Powley decision and what it means Senator Yvonne Boyer, who is also a for Métis people in Ottawa and MNO citizen, and MNO Honou- Ontario. rary Senator Reta Gordon. MNO ORMC was very apprecia- The MNO ORMC wishes to tive of the time Belcourt spent with and heritage and remembered the historic achievements made in the Day Ceremony at the National thank the citizens who participat- us; it is a rare opportunity to listen sacrifice of the Powley family. Métis Nation. Aboriginal Veterans Monument in ed in our fall activities and looks to a person who has truly made The event also provided an oppor- On Nov. 11, 2018 at 9:00 a.m., Confederation Park. The ceremony forward to seeing citizens in the history. Council representatives tunity for everyone to reflect with MNO ORMC participated in the brought local Aboriginal veterans coming months and at its Annual also celebrated their Métis culture pride on the many momentous and Aboriginal Veterans Remembrance together to remember the sacrifices General Meeting on Feb. 9, 2019. ∞ MNO Toronto MNO Windsor-Essex-Kent Métis and York Region Council shows off renovated office Métis Council submitted by from Saskatchewan for the bannock and Donna Grayer fry bread. holds lands President There were talks about the office being MNO Windsor-Essex-Kent Métis Council used for tutoring, as well as a Coffee with Cops opportunity. and resources étis Nation of Ontario (MNO) The Women Representative from Unifor MWindsor-Essex-Kent Métis Council local 444 was gifted a sash from MNO symposium (WEKMC) opened its doors on Dec. 5 to WEKMC Women’s Representative Shar- show off its newly renovated offices, MNO lene Lance, who enjoyed conversations written by programs and introduce the community to with many in attendance. Darlene Braz council representatives. Senator Jim Turner kept the stories go- Invitations were sent out to all local ing at the council table, and of course the étis Nation of On- school boards, police, fire and rescue, laughs. Mtario (MNO) To- universities and colleges, local unions, MNO Veterans’ Council Women’s Rep- ronto and York Region the Children’s Aid Society, elected officials, resentative Shelly Claus brought in infor- Métis Council (TYRMC) museums and other Indigenous agencies mation about the Veterans’ Council to be hosted its Lands and Re- and groups. displayed. sources Symposium at the The event was a huge success with lots of The help of MNO staff with food and McMichael Canadian Art visitors and good conversations. The goal MNO Windsor-Essex-Kent Métis answering questions about programs was Collection in Kleinburg of the event was to build good connections Councilor Garry Lovell, Unifor 444 greatly appreciated, as is their hard work on Oct. 28. with the community, as well as share the re- representative Sue McKinnon and within the community. The goal of the sympo- sources that are available to MNO citizens. Women’s Rep Sharlene Lance were Plans are already underway for a sec- sium was to tell citizens The food was excellent and the MNO among those who attended the ond open house for those who could not about the lands and re- WEKMC would like to thank its guest council’s open house on Dec. 5. attend. ∞ sources-based initiatives in the region that the council has engaged in Janet Sumner over the last year. speaks at Lands This year’s theme was and Resources Reducing isolation through a Seniors “Honouring the Land and Symposium on Oct. Our Ancestors” and at- 28, 2018. tendees heard from sever- Sharing Circle in Sudbury al guest speakers from the Toronto and York Region. submitted by Among the invited speakers was Jonathan Arau- Nancy Martel, MNO Community Support Service Coordinator jo from the Centre for Indigenous Innovation and Entrepreneurship. He spoke about a space that is set ive seniors gathered on Nov. isolation by getting seniors out of to open in Toronto later next year that will serve as a 28, to make Christmas cen- the house and engaging with others. cultural and technological hub for Indigenous people. trepieces during a Seniors Social isolation impacts quality of Arlen Leeming, of the Toronto Regional Con- FSharing Circle at the Métis Nation life. It increases the risk of develop- servation Authority, discussed natural revitalization of Ontario (MNO) office in Sud- ing mental health issues and has an projects in the city with an emphasis on water res- bury. impact on the person’s self-esteem ervoirs. Next, Janet Sumner, of the Canadian Parks Prior to making the centrepieces, and confidence, and consequently and Wilderness Society, talked about her work on each person was asked to put their can perpetuate isolation. environmental sustainability while incorporating so- hand in a bag and take out one An important component to cial and economic factors. She also highlighted some inspirational stone. On the stones seniors’ well-being is having an ef- upcoming volunteer opportunities for attendees to there were words such as love, laugh, fective support system and social get involved in. wish, hope and dream. Participants supports encourage feelings of self- Following a break for questions and coffee, par- were asked to keep the word they worth and self-esteem. ticipants were led in a gallery tour focusing on the selected in mind and share a story For those who could not attend Florence Lortie makes a Christmas centrepiece as Indigenous art pieces displayed in the McMichael on that word during the activity. the workshop, MNO staff brought part of a program offered to reduce isolation of art collection. ∞ The workshop’s goal was to reduce the activity to their homes. ∞ seniors in Sudbury. Métis Voyageur Issue no. 102, August 2019 9 MNO citizens begin process to found MNO Council in Barrie submitted by council business and for ensuring Joanne Meyer accountability through good fiscal MNO Chief Operating Officer management. MNO community councils play ixty people gathered to discuss an important role in fostering com- the possibility of founding a munity empowerment, engagement Métis Nation of Ontario and development for Métis citizens. S(MNO) chartered council in Barrie. The council will be the fifth in The MNO sent a call out to Region Seven, which is also home MNO citizens in the Barrie area to the MNO Georgian Bay Métis asking interested individuals to at- Council, MNO Great Lakes Métis tend a meeting on Oct. 15, and the Council, MNO Moon River Métis response was overwhelming. Council and MNO Peterborough During the meeting, a working and District Wapiti Métis Council. group was established to develop the Community Code, Charter NOTE: Just before this issue of Mé- Agreement and other governance tis Voyageur went to print the MNO A working group was established to move forward with the founding of a new MNO community council items prior to the elections for the Barrie-South Simcoe Métis Council in Barrie. The members of the working group include: (Back Row, Left to Right) Ryan Trudeau, Monica new council. signed it’s charter! Watch for more Poirier, Randy Gilchrist, Annie Pilon, Cindy Kennedy McNulty, Danielle Collander, Juliean McCoy, Avalon These documents outline the information in our next issue and McCoy, Mila, MNO President Margaret Froh, Maureen Smith, (Front Row Left to Right) Lisa Bellisle, Region rules and regulations for conducting at www.metisnation.org. 7 Councilor Pauline Richardson, and Karey-Anne Fannan. Making the Grade (Métis style!) A unique collaboration pairs Métis design with mathematics curriculum

by MNO Staff

new collaboration is teaching students about Métis culture in an unex- pectedA context: math class. Synthesizing Métis beading techniques with mathematic charts and formulas, students are engaging both right and left brain as they learn to weave their very own beaded bracelets. Introduced as a pilot project in MNO citizen Cameron Parkinson teaches students at the Turtle May 2018 to a fifth grade class in Island Heritage Festival how to use and aim a slingshot. the Upper Grand District School Board, it was an immediate suc- cess. The program is a collective effort between project founder Students use pencil crayons to colour in their design pattern, Ruth Beatty, the Métis Nation deciding on a core and how it will repeat. MNO Grand River Métis of Ontario (MNO) Grand River Métis Council’s President Jenni- participate in Turtle fer Parkinson and Treasurer Leslie concepts, Métis leaders like peers, whether with the math Anne Muma, and other local Parkinson and Muma facilitate or the beading, and frequently Island Heritage Festival leaders including math coach Métis-specific history discussions shared their appreciation with Bonnie Sears, and curriculum and lend their expertise to ensure instructors. leader for First Nation Métis and that the cultural component to “Some of the students we submitted by the children thoroughly enjoyed Inuit education, Colinda Clyne. the lessons are equally represent- worked with last year stated that Alicia Hamilton, Chair learning. They came away with Together, they work to ensure a ed. the project was the best thing MNO Grand River Métis Council their own bracelet from the fin- culturally sensitive, engaging and While Muma provides various they had done all year, and that ger weaving session and a greater meaningful lesson. floral designs and potential was because of the learning from étis Nation of Ontario appreciation for the strength and Ruth Beatty, founder of the patterns for the loom, Parkinson the Métis artists,” shared Beatty. (MNO) Grand River agility of the Métis people after project, said the project demon- presents Métis 101 lessons to “And the mathematics the stu- Métis Council (GRMC) playing poison circle, participating strates the connections between students. dents learn is done in a context Mran two great events, April 23-26, in a grain sack relay and learning to cultural designs and activities, “Going into these classrooms, of creating something important at the Turtle Island Heritage Fes- use and aim a sling shot. such as beaded bracelets, and the we aim to provide students with to them - so they care about fig- tival. Approximately 360 students, math being taught in Ontario an overview of Métis history uring out how long their bracelet The festival was held at the from Grades 6-8 attended each day school’s curricula. In these proj- and culture, which includes the has to be, for example, or how to Wellington County Museum in of the festival. ects, students explore loomwork symbolism of the materials used determine the unit of repeat and Fergus, Ont., in partnership with Throughout the school year, (an Anishinaabe activity) but in loom beading, such as con- then reflect their design because the Upper Grand District School MNO GRMC visits dozens of informed by principles of Métis cepts like the ‘spirit bead’ or the it’s meaningful.” Board. The festival is a celebration schools in the region and students design. significance of the animal hide The work being done in Upper of Métis, First Nations and Inuit who learned dot art had the op- By applying a cultural dimen- necessary for lacing,” describes Grand School District constitutes art, music and culture. portunity to have their artwork dis- sion to the lessons, complex Parkinson. one of several research sites across The students rotated through played at the Wellington County concepts like spatial reasoning, Parkinson also remarks how Ontario. A five-day version of several Indigenous-focused activi- Museum for the month of April. patterning and algebraic rea- students were so engrossed in the program was recently held ties so they could learn history or a Students and their families were in- soning, and two-dimensional their work that staff often had to in January for a grade six class of traditional art form, such as drum- vited to an official art show opening transformations become more remind them to take breaks to eat 48 students and more upcoming ming or finger weaving. during the festival. It is a wonderful accessible -- and fun! and exercise. But despite their in- workshops have also been sched- MNO GRMC taught finger opportunity for students to show Along with an introducto- tense concentration, the students uled for this spring. ∞ weaving and Métis games, which off their beautiful artwork.∞ ry lesson of the mathematical were also quick to assist their Métis Voyageur 10 Issue no. 102, August 2019

A real honour Promoting Métis Shawl workshop

MNO Thunder Bay Métis Council Senator Ken Simard MNO Niagara Region Métis Council Senator Garry Lafram- On Oct. 16, the MNO Georgian Bay Métis Council Ladies (centre) attended the installation of Lakehead University’s boise (second from left) took the opportunity to promote Circle held a shawl making workshop facilitated by PCMNO Seventh President and Vice-Chancellor, Moira McPherson Métis priorities with Welland Regional Councilor Paul Greni- Region 7 Women’s Representative Patricia Taylor. Pictured (left) and the Conferring of an Honourary Degree (Doctor of er, Minister of Foreign Affairs (left to right) PCMNO Region 7 Women’s Representative Humane Letters) to Ron MacLean (right). The ceremony took and MNO citizen MP for Niagara Centre Vance Patricia Taylor, Linda Lacroix, Lorraine Lacroix, Mary Craw- place in the Lakehead University Hangar on Sept. 22, and Badawey on Nov. 15. submitted by Garry ford, Vicki Jenkins, Nancy Willette, Rose Cadeau and Barb also featured a presentation of the Academic All-Canadian Laframboise, MNO Niagara Region Métis Beaman. submitted by Lorraine Mountney, Secretary MNO Athletic Awards. submitted by Ken Simard, MNO Thunder Council Senator Georgian Bay Métis Council Bay Métis Council Senator. photo by Janet Fuchek

Proudly carrying the Métis flag

Grade 5 student Colton Kozak carries the Métis flag during the Grand Entry at the Kenora Catholic School Board’s winter powwow, held March 1 at Pope John Paul II School. Tacos and bannock: MNO North MNO partners with Bytown

Channel Métis Council meets submitted by Museum for celebration of with Senator Boyer Nina Henley Métis culture in Ottawa MNO Kenora Métis Thirteen people attended the Nov. 15, taco in a bag work- Council Secretary The Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) and the Bytown Museum shop led by MNO North Channel Métis Council Women’s partnered for a celebration of Métis culture during Ottawa’s Representative Michelle McCoy Smith in Blind River. The Winterlude on Feb. 9. The event included a jigging dem- feast included chili, tacos and dessert bannock with straw- onstration by Brad Lafortune, Métis themed ice carving and berries and whipped cream, which the children helped a beading demonstration organized by the MNO Ottawa make. It was a great evening; everyone left with their tum- Region Métis Council. The council also provided information mies full and with a new understanding of bannock. about MNO programs and services and set up a display of submitted by Yvonne Jensen, MNO North Channel furs and Métis beading. Métis Council President

MNO Veteran receives Christmas cards for Canadian Peterborough paints the night Quilt of Valour soldiers away MNO veteran retired Sgt. Harvey Horlock, of the Toronto During the MNO Windsor-Essex-Kent Métis Council MNO Peterborough and District Wapiti Métis Council Scottish Regiment, was presented with a Quilt of Valour Louis Riel Day event, attendees wrote Christmas cards for hosted a Paint Night event with the Art School of Peterbor- by Virginia Rothwell. Horlock’s granddaughter Sheyanne soldiers, which were supplied by MNO WEKMC Women’s ough on December 12. Approximately 15 people attend the played the drum and sang with Horlock. Davy Jones per- Rep Sharlene Lance and MNO Veterans’ Council Women’s event, painting a landscape featuring a canoe on the water. formed a smudge while members of Royal Canadian Legion Rep Shelly Claus. The pair also gave suggestions about The evening was enjoyed by all who attended and each Branch 10 looked on. Quilts Of Valour - Canada acknowl- items that could be sent in boxes along with the cards. person was able to bring home their own unique piece of edges the significant contribution made by injured Cana- Claus remarked in preparing the cards, “I was in the Golan art at the end of the night. Submitted by Christa Lemelin, dian Armed Forces members and veterans with specially Heights during the holidays and when I received cards/ MNO Peterborough and District Wapiti Métis Council Chair designed quilts. Submitted by Marilyn Lawson, Royal Canadian packages from people I didn’t know, well it was very Legion District ‘D’ Service Officer touching. To know that strangers at home were thinking about us that were away from home. It can be very lonely for some and they do have a hard time.” Submitted by Donna Grayer, President MNO Windsor-Essex-Kent Métis Council Métis Voyageur Issue no. 102, August 2019 11 OBITUARIES

William Alfred (Bill) Ellis 1926- 2018

ill Ellis, pictured with his wife Dora, children, Glenn (Liz), Murray, Ken Danna), will be remembered for his service Carol (Don) and Kim. Grandchildren; Gil- to Canada during the Second World lian (Phil), Mandie (Nicholas), Christopher BWar and for attending MNO Annual Gen- (Chelsea) Kristen (Kyle), Rowan, Meagan, eral Assemblies where he taught spoons and David, Matthew, Mark (deceased), Steve, bones workshops. Ryan, Tyler and Aaron. Great-Grandchil- Second World War Métis Veteran and dren; Seraphina, Mackenzie, Kiely, Alison, former Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Paige, Rylen (deceased), Cian, Oliver, Sam, Senator Bill Ellis passed away on Sept. 28, Tyson, Selma, Logan and Aleena. 2018 at the age of 92 with his children by Bill was a member of the Royal Canadian his side. Legion Branch 68 Penetanguishene. He was Jo (Josephine) MacQuarrie Bill will be remembered at the MNO a Service Bureau Officer and a Senator for 1934 - 2019 for his service to Canada and for attending the Métis Nation of Ontario. MNO Annual General Assemblies where he Most of all his passion for was playing taught spoons and bones workshops with his his Rhythm Bones to fiddle music with étis Elder, nurse, community humour, Jo encouraged us to be proud wife Dora. In 2016, for Bill’s 90th birthday, his brother-in-law Jerry and friends. His activist, volunteer and Ottawa of who we are as Métis people. She was he was presented will a certificate from the big smile and a proud man, may the spirit Police Chaplain, Jo (Josephine) someone who showed us all how to work MNO Veterans’ Council commemorating the journey you home safely. MMacQuarrie died March 13, 2019 after a hard and never take ourselves too seriously. milestone and thanking him for his service. brief illness. She was deeply loved and will be missed He is survived by his devoted partner and submitted by Greg Garratt Jo was a Community Outreach Liaison by so many.” best friend Dora, daughter Monica, his five President, MNO Georgian Bay Métis Council for the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Jo was born and raised in Alberta, in Ottawa and also worked as a Knowledge daughter of Louis Solway (Salois) and Jus- Translation Consultant. tine Laboucane. She moved to the Cana- “I was recognized as a Métis elder by the dian North in 1966 where she spent more ong-time Métis Nation of will be missed by many.” Metis Nation of Ontario a few years ago,” than 30 years living throughout the North- Ontario (MNO) employee October helped her clients with what- said Jo in a presentation at Carleton Uni- west Territories and present-day Nunavut. Janet (October) Fostey will ever they needed. Back in 2013, she was versity in 2017. “And I thought I couldn’t A Registered Nurse, with post graduate be remembered for her laugh, an instrumental part of creating the Métis be an elder because I wasn’t old enough. studies in Psychiatric Nursing and Com- dedication to her clients and Baby Bundle Book, spending time with But they said, ‘It’s not about age, it’s about munity Development, she devoted her life advocacy for Métis people. traditional knowledge holders who shared wisdom,’ and I thought, I can do that. So to the health and well-being of others. LOctober, 68, passed away on Feb. 13, their stories about family and parenting. I accepted the honour.” She founded the Northwest Territories 2019. She was the loving wife of Steve Lynne Picotte, MNO Manager of She represented the MNO on a number and Nunavut Chapters of the Canadian for 36 wonderful years, mother to Jason Quality Assurance, said October was an of boards and committees, including the Mental Health Association, was a social Haney (Rayna) and Tiffany Haney (Paul), excellent advocate for her clients and had Ottawa Police Service Spiritual Team (as advocate participant in the Mackenzie Val- sister to Kathy Bignall and Gary a lot of wisdom that she didn’t a Chaplain), Gignul non-profit housing, ley Pipeline hearings, served three terms Robinson and godmother to hesitate to share. the Carleton University Elder’s Council on Yellowknife City Council, and was Jessie Allison. “She fought hard for par- and the Ottawa Aboriginal Coalition. She Chief Coroner of the Northwest Territo- “On behalf of the Pro- ents and their children. provided spiritual guidance for MNO staff ries. She was instrumental in the estab- visional Council of the She was awesome,” Pi- and citizens and always provided insights lishment of the Keewatin and Kitikmeot MNO, I want to ex- cotte said. “Her passing and support during her opening and clos- Regional Health Boards and was the first press my heartfelt con- is a loss for the MNO; ing prayers. to begin helping Inuit families find their dolences to October’s she was loved.” “The entire Métis Nation of Ontario is loved ones who had been taken away to family”, said President As MNO Wind- grieving with the family of Jo MacQuarrie southern Canada for health treatment, Margaret Froh. sor Essex-Kent Métis and will remember her for providing much never to return. October began work- Council Senator Jim needed spiritual and cultural guidance,” Jo is remembered with love and pride by ing with the MNO Turner got to know Oc- stated MNO President Margaret Froh. her four children and spouses Catherine in 2005, in Windsor, tober, he found she was “Our nation is stronger because of Jo’s (Clive Tesar), Don, Ken (Yoshie Nozaki) working as what’s now one-of-a-kind and had a work and presence. She will be missed.” and Doug (Stephanie Carbert), and by her known as a Métis Healthy warm spirit. On moving to Ottawa in 1998, Jo five grandchildren, Alexander, Julia, Mai- Baby Healthy Children Co- “She was always laughing quickly became involved in the city’s Indig- rin, Lindsay and Kouta. Her children said ordinator. Janet and making people feel good,” enous community and health programs. In “The greatest gift our mom and grandma “She was a tireless advocate “October” he said. “Being around her 2014, she co-authored a study on Ontario gave us was a deep respect for human be- for Métis people and their Fostey was like sitting around a warm Métis having a higher prevalence of asthma ings, in all their diversity.” families, her contributions fire. She was warm and upbeat with other MNO citizens and staff and the Her children are very grateful for the will always be felt and treasured by the and her spirit radiated that warmth.” Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences. excellent and compassionate care she re- community,” stated MNO Chief Oper- He added, “I know her clients are really “Jo MacQuarrie was at the very heart ceived at the Civic Hospital and at Eliza- ating Officer Joanne Meyer. going to miss her. I loved her to bits, and of the Métis community in Ottawa. Not beth Bruyere, and for the visits and mes- “October was a huge part of the com- so did everyone else.” only did she work with organizations sages of support from her many friends munity,” said MNO Windsor Essex-Kent The MNO extends sincere condolences throughout the city to increase awareness and colleagues. Métis Council President Donna Grayer. to the family and will treasure the many about Métis culture and traditions, she also A celebration of Jo’s life will be orga- “She was a strong voice for families and wonderful memories of October. worked tirelessly within the community to nized in Ottawa in late April. She will be for Métis inclusion. She made sure Métis A celebration of October’s life was held support Métis youth,” said MNO citizen buried among family in Camrose, Alta. For were always included.” Grayer added Oc- in Windsor on Feb. 18 hosted by the Ska:- and former MNO Ottawa Métis Council those who wish, donations can be made tober was spirited, funny and was always na Family Learning Centre and the Métis President Benny Michaud. in her name to the Wabano Centre for laughing. “She was an amazing woman, Nation of Ontario. “With a quick wit and dry sense of Aboriginal Health. Métis Voyageur 12 Issue no. 102, August 2019

Powley Day - September 19 Powley Day marked at the University of Guelph

submitted by Jennifer Parkinson President MNO Grand River Métis Council

étis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Grand River Métis Council (GRMC) Mpartnered with the University of Guelph for a Powley Day Celebra- tion on Sept. 19. Many staff and students gathered in front of the University Centre to watch as the Métis flag was raised in MNO honour of Steve Powley. Special guests included the Vice Provost of the University Carrie Consultation Chassels and Guelph’s Mayor Cam Guthrie, who said spoke about Powley Day and the relationship Committee between the city and the MNO GRMC. MNO GRMC President Jennifer continues Parkinson told those in attendance about the significance of the Powley Case and the impact it has had on work with Vale the Métis Nation. Métis fiddler Rajan Anderson, with his mother Kim Anderson on The Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) keyboard, provided traditional Mé- tis music and some jigging lessons Fiddler Rajan Anderson and Professor Kim Anderson dance the jig Region 5 Consultation Committee meets for anyone wishing to learn. Many outside the University of Guelph for Powley Day. with Vale Canada Ltd. biannually to keep jiggers, including MNO GRMC Chair Alicia Hamilton, joined in apprised of the company’s operations the celebration. The MNO GRMC would like to Day event. Thank you also to the and promote the wellbeing of Métis Guests then moved to the Aborig- thank Chelsea Brant, of the Univer- University of Guelph for its support inal Resource Centre for pea soup, sity of Guelph Aboriginal Resource in making the celebration a success. citizens in the Sudbury area. bannock and great conversation. Centre, for organizing the Powley ∞

Vale is a household name in the region, as the operator of six mines, a smelter, a mill and a refinery in the Sudbury basin, pro- ducing nickel, copper, cobalt, platinum products, gold and silver. MNO Toronto and York Region The MNO Mattawa/ Lake Nipissing Traditional Territory (Region 5) Consultation Committee was pleased to hear Vale’s announce- Métis Council hosts first-ever ment in September 2018 of the completion of its $1 billion Clean AER (Atmospheric Emission Reduction) Project, which greatly re- duces the company’s environmental footprint. According to Vale, Powley Day Celebration the Clean AER Project is the largest single environmental invest- ment in Sudbury’s history, achieving an 85 per cent reduction in submitted by previous sulphur dioxide emissions and a 40 per cent reduction in Kezia Picard metal particulate emissions. MNO Toronto and York Region Métis Councilor These environmental goals are being achieved through infrastruc- tural changes, including the construction of two new converters, a étis Nation of Ontar- wet gas cleaning plant, a new secondary baghouse and fan build- io (MNO) Toronto ing and reconstruction of the smelter converter flues. In addition, and York Region Mé- two new 137-metre stacks are currently being constructed in the Mtis Council (TYRMC) hosted its Copper Cliff Smelter, which will require far less energy to operate first-ever Powley Day Celebration than the Superstack and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from at Black Creek Community Farm the Smelter by approximately 40 per cent. Following construction on Sept. 23. of the concrete shells, steel liners will be installed in the new stacks The event featured lunch provid- Powley Day was celebrated with lunch, cultural teachings, bannock in 2019. In 2020, the Superstack’s steel liner will be removed and ed by NishDish, cultural teachings and more at an event hosted by the MNO Toronto and York Region the Superstack will be taken out of service and placed into care from the MNO Credit River Métis Métis Council. and maintenance. It is expected that removal of the concrete shell Council, bannock making over a will begin thereafter and continue over several years. fire, vegetable harvesting and a game yard. While Powley was initially how Métis made canoes out of birch meat giveaway. charged, after many court battles, and would use spruce roots to tie In addition to its positive environmental impact, the Clean AER The MNO TYRMC Powley Day the Supreme Court of Canada unan- the material together and animal fat Project has generated local economic benefit for local suppliers Celebration focused on Métis peo- imously voted that Métis commu- to cover the holes. After his presen- and the community, with approximately 550 construction jobs ple’s right to harvest, so the outdoor nities have the right to harvest and tation, participants were given the created to date. setting felt particularly appropriate. that right is protected by Section 35 opportunity to see and touch some The event began with MNO Os- of the Constitution Act, 1982. This of the displays that he brought such hawa and Durham Métis Coun- day commemorates Powley’s fight to as fur, trapping equipment and some cil Senator Cecile Wagar leading protect Métis way of life for future of the other ingenious tools used by a prayer and she was followed by generations. Métis. MNO TYRMC Chair Todd Ross, Cultural teachings were provided After the presentation, partici- who explained the importance of by MNO Credit River Métis Coun- pants harvested some kale or squash Powley Day. cil Senator Jim Tolles and his son, from the Black Creek Community He described how, Steve Pow- Steve Tolles. These teachings empha- Farm and made bannock over a fire. ley, tired of hunting at night to sized how Métis people utilize every They also went home with some bi- avoid conservation officers, open- piece of the animals and plants that son, Guinea hen, and venison from ly harvested a moose in his back- are harvested. Senator Tolles shared the game meat giveaway. ∞ Métis Voyageur Issue no. 102, August 2019 13

Métis students spend March Break experiencing there culture and learning about post-secondary options March Break Camp ‘19

t the Métis Nation of Ontario sharing information,” Blore said. (MNO) Infinite Reach March First-time camper Laura Polischuk, a Grade Break Camp, the high school 11 student from Kenora, wanted to meet more participants can hardly contain Métis youth and found that she learned a lot their excitement. During breaks about her Métis background as well as her and activities, they share stories and conver- post-secondary options. sationA with their old and new-found friends. “Being a Métis youth is just being a part But, as the MNO Infinite Reach Facilita- of a huge community. It’s knowing you have tors, current upper year post-secondary stu- a place that you belong and fit in,” she said. dents, take the floor to talk about their path “Opportunities like this are really important to college and university, all the chatter fades. for Métis youth because it makes them more “It’s an important aspect of the camp be- aware of different things that are happening in cause the students gain more knowledge and our province with Métis and gives you more insight into what it’s currently like in post-sec- opportunities for your future.” ondary school and the students seem to really “I really wanted to come to this camp this crave that information,” said MNO Educa- year,” said fellow first-time camper Luc Cou- tion Officer Alicia Blore. “The room will go ture, from Sudbury. “It’s my first year and I silent when the Infinite Reach Facilitators start got to meet new people and learn more about talking just because they are the role models, my culture. The people were very friendly and they have the information and they know best I made a lot of friends,” he said. what they are experiencing currently.” The network of Métis youth that is created This year’s Infinite Reach Facilitators -in from MNO activities and camps, including cluded Elijah Cadarette, Samantha Lavallee, this one, is important for participants. Bree Johnson and Lindsay Gammon. “I think opportunities like this and other The camp takes place each year in Mattawa, camps that run through the MNO are really at the Canadian Ecology Centre on the shore important for Métis youth to connect to their of the Mattawa River, a historic thoroughfare culture, to connect to the land and to con- for Métis voyageurs. nect to one another and to really build those The five-day camp presented 20 students in Scenes from the 2019 MNO Infinite Reach March Break Camp. communities of Métis youth that are strong Grades 10-12 to some of their post-secondary throughout the province,” said Infinite Reach options, including careers in the military and ences including Métis food, crafts, music and “Some of these youth come from cities Facilitator Bree Johnson. trades, as well as college and university. They games. The campers were also visited by Roger where they don’t have access to the land. Other Samantha Lavallee added, “I wish I did it were provided with information about appli- Labelle and MNO Mattawa Métis Council ones who do have access to the land may not when I was younger; I hope this program only cation processes, budgeting, scholarships and President Nelson Montreuil, who taught them have access to information about employment continues to grow in the future.” supports from the MNO. The information lessons in skinning and stretching pelts, as well or post-secondary opportunities; it’s kind of For more photos of this year’s camp, visit sessions are combined with cultural experi- as setting snares and traps. a mix. Everyone is coming here learning and the MNO Facebook page. ∞

: A network of Métis learners

he Métis Nation of Ontar- “Our role there is to have dif- identify with that and so the greater during a presentation to upper-year io (MNO) Infinite Reach ferent events that talk about Métis population can really understand high school students at the Infinite Student Solidarity Network culture and raise awareness, to give who we are as Métis.” Reach March Break Camp this year. Tkeeps students connected to their a Métis voice to the campus. That Infinite Reach Facilitators or- The Facilitators spoke about Métis peers and culture as they way other Métis students, who are ganize events like beading nights, challenges that students might face pursue post-secondary options and going into these postsecondary attend powwows or other events at -- being away from your commu- many leave home for the first time. institutions, can feel that Métis the school to provide information nity, family and friends, and being This year, there were 29 Infinite presence and feel welcome and about the MNO and the Infinite unsure about whether the school or Reach facilitators at different col- feel that Métis sense of communi- Reach network. programs are the best fit. leges and universities spread across ty,” said Infinite Reach Facilitator “We let people know that we are “It’s a growth experience,” said the province. Facilitators are upper Breena Johnson, who attends Brock there and can help them and be a Johnson. You can do it. I had a MNO Infinite Reach Facilitator year students who help incoming University. support system to Métis youth who hard time first year, but now I’m a Samantha Lavallee (centre) students adjust to university life. “I think it’s really important to are coming into university,” said Sa- lot more confident. You learn and talks about her post-secondary They act as student representatives create that strong representation of mantha Lavallee, an Infinite Reach adapt and grow. And growing is experience during the 2019 from the MNO. Métis so that other Métis youth can Facilitator at Nipissing University always a bit painful.” March Break Camp.

For more about the MNO Infinite Reach Student Solidarity Network visit: www.metisnation.org/programs/education-training/infinite-reach/ Métis Voyageur 14 Issue no. 102, August 2019

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www.cnl.ca/vendors Métis Voyageur Issue no. 102, August 2019 15

Métis students honoured for academic achievement submitted by Polischuk. Theresa Stenlund Each year the Kenora Catho- PCMNO Region 1 Councilor lic District School Board honours students in high school for their hree Métis students were achievements in sports, arts and recently honoured for their academics. academic achievement by Several other awards were also Treceiving the First Nations, Métis, handed out to Métis students at the and Inuit Academic Achievement school. Among them was Katelyne Award. Stenlund, who received an award for Grade 10 student Laura Polis- personal and fitness activities during chuk, Grade 11 student Matthew the 2017-2018 school year. Camire and Grade 9 student Emma “I was in attendance as a parent, Manzie received the award on Oct. but was proud to see that so many 17 at St. Thomas Aquinas High of our Métis youth are excelling in School in Kenora. school and that they are being ac- “I am very honoured to have knowledged and recognized for their earned this award; it has motivated achievements as other awards were me to continue to always try my issued that day,” said Provisional best and work even harder. It was Council of the Métis Nation of On- a special honour to be recognized tario Region 1 Councilor Theresa Métis students Laura Polischuk, Matthew Camire and Emma Manzie received the First Nations, Métis with two other Métis students,” said Stenlund. and Inuit Academic Achievement Award on Oct. 17 at St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Kenora. MNO citizen wins prestigious music scholarship written by Lliam Buckley During the mentorship portion, This article originally appeared at the winners heard from and were https://www.fsu.ca/interrobang. introduced to major figures in the php?storyID=14195 music industry such as Allan Reid, President and CEO of the Canadian étis Nation of Ontario Academy of Recording Arts and Sci- (MNO) citizen Jenna ences (CARAS), JUNO Award-win- Bjornson was recently ning recording engineer John ‘Beetle’ Mawarded the prestigious MusiCounts Bailey, Nathan Wiszniak, Head of 2018 Scholarship, through which she Canada, Artist and Label Marketing, received $4,000 and a five-day men- Spotify and Jennifer Hyland, senior torship program in Toronto. manager of Music Licensing / TV & Only six of these awards were giv- Film Sync. en out across all of Canada this year This served as a huge benefit to to industry students who demon- Bjornson’s network within the in- strated excellence and a commitment dustry. to their craft. “Now I have connections all The award was given to people spe- across the country and I got to meet cializing in one of several streams in- a bunch of really cool people who I cluding, music production/ engineer- MNO citizen and Fanshawe will, hopefully, be seeing in the in- ing, music business and performance. alumna, Jenna Bjornson (centre) dustry for the rest of my life,” Bjorn- Bjornson, a graduate of Fanshawe’s received the 2018 MusiCounts son said. Music Industry Arts (MIA) program, Scholarship from MusiCounts Bjornson also said how important was one of only two students nom- President and CEO Allan Reid it is that young people have programs MNO citizen wins inated in the business stream. She and Executive Director Kristy such as MusiCounts supporting them said she was honoured to receive Fletcher. Photo by Rish Cassling from the beginning of their career. the award and that when she heard “This industry is so hard to get bronze at Invictus the news of this scholarship she was projects during her final year, due to into and it is all about relationships”, “shocked and surprised.” the faculty strike. she said. “This program gives young MIA program coordinator, Dan During the mentorship, students people the opportunity to meet and Games Brodbeck remembered Bjornson’s were taken to various industry facil- connect with industry professionals submitted by time at Fanshawe and recalled the ities in Toronto, including, Spotify that [they] would never have had the Joe Paquette, MNO Veterans Council President mutual respect that all MIA profes- Offices, Noble Street Studios, Roy opportunity to meet. It also reassures sors had for her. Thompson Hall, Coalition Music, young people that this is an industry NO citizen and veteran Derek Anderson, from Thunder “When we gave her tasks to do Dine Alone Records and many more. that you can have a career in.” Bay, was part of the men’s archery team that won bronze they were performed like a profes- Although the trips to these lo- As Bjornson gets ready for a suc- during the Invictus Games, held in Sydney Australia. sional would perform them. Even cations were important, Bjornson cessful career in the music industry MHe also competed in sailing and rowing events. The games are though stuff gets really rough around shared that the biggest takeaway and begins applying to jobs, she said an international sporting event for injured and ill armed forces here she could handle it,” Brodbeck she got from the program was the is thankful for the experiences at Fan- members and veterans, highlighting the power of sport to inspire said, referring to the extra level of relationships formed with others in shawe and the impact MIA had on recovery and support rehabilitation. Anderson served one tour in responsibility Bjornson had to take the program as well as industry pro- her. Bosnia and two tours in Afghanistan. on independently for extra-curricular fessionals. Métis Voyageur 16 Issue no. 102, August 2019 FAMILY & MILESTONES

Joining the harvest Four-year-old Benny Doucette (on the right in photo) joined his grandfather and father in harvesting grouse over Thanksgiving weekend in the Mattawa/Nippissing area. This was the first time he participated in the harvest. “It was important for myself and my father by walking in the bush to to share this tradition of retrieve it for his Papa. Later hunting with my son,” said that night, it was cooked Fish On! Three generations of harvesters Colin Doucette. for supper and Benny got Brendan Gravelle from Sudbury Benny learned about his first taste of grouse. caught and released this 31’ 12lb Three generations of Métis took Mark Blanchette. “We always grouse, hunting safety and Benny is pictured with his walleye on June 1, 2019. Way to part in a harvest on Oct. 13 in enjoy some very special family showing respect for the grandfather Greg Doucette. go, Brendan! Algoma District in the Historic bonding time during the Métis animals. Benny helped his Submitted by Sault Ste. Marie Traditional harvest,” said Keith Blanchette. grandfather Greg Doucette, Submitted by Richard Gravelle Blanchette, Territory. Pictured (left to right) Submitted by Keith Blanchette, who harvested the bird, Colin Doucette MNO citizen and Brendan’s Dad Keith, Kalvin, Ruth, Damon and MNO citizen

Joseph Paquette honoured with tribute by MNO Staff of a special Warrior quilt from the Quilts of Valor organization. n July 7, a special tribute While celebrating Joe’s contribu- honoured Joseph Paquette tions over the years and highlight- in recognition of his many ing his work with Métis Youth, Oyears of service to both the Métis PCMNO Youth Representative Nation of Ontario (MNO) Veter- Mitch Case took the opportunity ans Council and the wider Métis to announce a joint partnership community. between the MNO Youth and Vet- The Service Appreciation Lunch erans Councils which includes the was held at the Legion Branch #82 formation of a new scholarship to in Port Credit and provided a space be named in Joe’s honour. for colleagues, friends and family to In a special presentation, Joe was come together, share stories and ex- bestowed with the Order of the press their gratitude for the dedica- Métis Nation. The Métis National tion and leadership Joe has shown Council’s “Order of the Métis Na- over the years. tion” recognizes the positive impact above: MNO Citizens and well-wishers meet in Port Credit Also attending Sunday’s lunch a recipient has made in moving for- to honour MNOVC President Joseph Paquette in a special were MNO President Margaret ward the rights and aspirations of appreciation lunch. (Back row, left to right) Don Kennedy, Brian Froh and members of the Provi- the Métis. Black, Paul Pirie, Shelly Claus, Sgt Raymond Stark, Senator sional Council of the Métis Nation The MNO would like to sincere- Guy Mandeville, Sharlene Lance, Doug Woods, Greg Garratt. of Ontario (PCMNO), MNO staff ly thank Joe for the leadership and (Back row, left to right) Margaret Froh and Joseph Paquette and MNO community members. support he has provided the MNO In addition to sharing stories, over the years. Thanks Joe! Your con- right: Joe was presented with the Order of the Métis Nation some tokens of appreciation were tributions, mentorship and service recognizing for his efforts in moving forward the rights and exchanged, including the gifting will be always remembered. ∞ aspirations of the Métis.

Métis Advisory & Awards Committees seeking members The Metis Nation of Ontario is seeking Métis community members who are interested in volunteering as members of the Regional Advisory Committee (RAC) or Métis Awards Committee (MAC). These roles offer an opportunity to make a valuable contribution to the Ontario Métis community.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: • All RAC and MAC business is to be completed by fax, e-mail and/or teleconference wherever • RAC members review and recommend possible. MNO will provide the tools necessary training proposals through an anonymous to assist with making informed decisions review process with the assistance of • RAC/MAC work is strictly voluntary the Regional Employment and Training Coordinator. Reviews are ongoing however CONTACT: time commitment is limited in nature. Alison Tryl • MAC members are required to review bursary [email protected] applications once or twice a year. (416) 977-9881 ext.1