Page 1 Anishinabek News May 2013 ANISHINABEK NEWS The voice of the Anishinabek Nation

Volume 25 Issue 4 Published monthly by the Union of Ontario Indians - Anishinabek Nation Single Copy: $2.00 May 2013 OUR TIME IS NOW: Madahbee UOI Offi ces –This year marks the resentative of the Crown back then, governments that we don’t need in April, 2014. 250th anniversary of The Royal there was no doubt that we were ca- them to tell us how to look after our Madahbee pointed to the recent Proclamation, a landmark document pable of managing our own affairs, citizens.” stream of Harper government legis- by which the British Crown recog- governing our own communities – A key agenda item at the June lation that ignores First Nations ju- nized the nationhood of “the Indian the British representatives were well 3-6 assembly in Munsee-Delaware risdiction on everything from First tribes of North America.” aware of our ability to assert our ju- will be the future of the Anishinabek Nations election processes to matri- Commemoration of the 1763 risdiction because, when push came Education System, which is intend- monial real property rights. event is an agenda item for June’s to shove, First Nation warriors dev- ed to restore jurisdiction for educa- “We need to start occupying the annual general assembly of An- astated nine of eleven British Forts tion of some 2500 K-12 Anishina- fi eld in these areas – we’ve got to get doyouknowyourrights.ca ishinabek Nation chiefs, and Grand in Pontiac’s War. bek Nation students. Half a day on moving on some of these issues. Our Council Chief Patrick Madahbee “Today we have an opportunity the three-day agenda is being set organization has engaged every An- refl ected on the persistence of First to demonstrate the same kind of aside for a discussion by chiefs, who ishinabek community in developing Nations during that time. persistence by proving that we can are expected to endorse a plan that our own templates for citizenship “When our chiefs met the rep- govern ourselves, and telling other would launch the education system and matrimonial property laws. The Anishinabek Nation has developed the tools necessary to build gover- nance institutions in our own com- munities.” The Grand Council Chief used the development of the Anishinabek National Aboriginal Hockey Chi-Naaknigewan as an example of Championship story important governance groundwork anishinabeknews.ca that had been put in place, but not pursued as actively as it could have been. “We understood that some of our Ontario Budget communities required more time to review this important process – to create a constitution that provides the framework for our law-making authority as a nation. Our leaders collectively decided the process needed another year’s study, and the document we proclaimed at last year’s assembly included the amend- ments from a year earlier.” chiefs-of-ontario.org Madahbee said that time was of the essence in implementing key governance issues or First Nations could fi nd themselves dealing with 19th Annual Great Lakes Pow-wow Guide situations where, for example, in the event of marital breakups, the prov- ince will be making decisions on- Stephanie Peltier with daughters reserve and as a result, non-native Ciara and Autumn spouses may end up with owning the on-reserve property. “We can no longer afford to al- low foreign governments to decide who our citizens are, or about the IInsidenside thisthis issueissue process of First Nations elections.” He cited child welfare as another area where Anishinabek leaders have Anishinabek an opportunity for implementation, Nation in this case about the importance of the principle of “customary care”. General “No kid should ever be placed in Assembly care outside our communities. They could be placed with members of the June 4-6 immediate family, the extended fam- Munsee-Delaware Nation ily – even in neighbouring First Na- tions. Our kids are being placed in www.anishinabek.ca homes as far away as England! “We can either assert our juris- ‘Our time is now’ diction or we can complain about government laws being imposed on us. The status quo hasn’t worked. “OUR TIME IS NOW. IT’S Plaque commemorating contributions of Anishinaabe warriors in defence of York on April 27, 1813, was TIME TO DO SOMETHING unveiled 200 years later. Story on Page 12. NOW.”

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Agreement changes an ‘abuse of power’ Text of a March 28, 2013 letter from Grand Council Chief Patrick Madahbee to Bernard Valcourt, Minis- ter of Indian and Northern Affairs Canada.

Dear Minister:

Re: Unilateral Amendments to the 2013-14 First Grand Nation Funding Agreements Council I am writing in regards to the 2013-14 First Nation Chief Patrick Funding Agreements. As you are aware your ministry Madahbee has made unilateral amendments to these agreements that anticipate future legislative change. It is disturbing and in our view unreason- able, that Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) has chosen to add language to First Nation Contribution Agreements (FNCA) Protesters outside the hotel where Aboriginal Affairs offi cials were meeting with First Nations that appears to give your department almost unlimited power to make representatives about the First Nations Education Act. (Joshua Lynn/CBC) unilateral changes through “administrative measures” and an “Act of Parliament”. One of these possible legislative changes is Bill C-27, the First Proposed education act Nation Financial Transparency Act. This unilateral change in fund- ing agreements based on Bill C-27 is clearly high-handed, an abuse of power and contrary to the honour of the Crown as a fi duciary. The more ‘crap’ from Harper reasons are as follows: Anishinabek News (right) under legislation from an- development and imposition of a 1) The amendments refl ect an unknown factor-- possible legis- With CBC fi les other government, then you un- First Nations Education Act. lative change. This may include Bill C-27 in its current state or as THUNDER BAY – Grand Council dermine the original relationship Ontario Regional Chief Stan amended at some future date or some entirely different bill. First Na- Chief Patrick Madahbee says a pro- which was a treaty relationship be- Beardy attended the Thunder Bay tions that do sign are unaware of what this could entail including posed federal First Nation Educa- tween the British crown and Indig- protest and says COO continues the costs of compliance, the capacity required to comply and if they tion Act is another example of the enous peoples." to encourage the Aseembly of First could even comply with the reporting burdens at all; Harper government using unilat- "There's no...consent on my Nations to take a more prominent 2) In our view, it is coercive to have a newly-introduced bill be eral legislation to ignore the rights part for that legislation to be passed role in opposing the federal process the condition to which a First Nation receives funding for essential of First Nations citizens. that will affect my children and my COO hosted a May 7-8 Educa- services. Speaking on behalf of 39 An- children's children," she added. tion Symposium in Toronto to build 3) First Nations that have signed “under duress” have had their ishinabek Nation communities, The protesters were later al- on the Our Children, Our Future agreements fl atly rejected by INAC with the explanation being that Madahbee used a megaphone to lowed to come in to the Aborigi- Our Vision education report pro- this would not create a binding agreement. INAC has failed to en- address about 50 people protest- nal Affairs consultation meeting duced in 2012. The symposium quire about the exact source of the duress so it may be addressed; ing an April 11th meeting between and make a deputation. They were was designed to collect grassroots 4) The unknown legislative changes that INAC is attempting to First Nations representatives and asked to leave their signs at the input on education issues in Ontar- incorporate do not possess the requisite certainty required to create offi cials with Indian and Northern door before heading in. Some pro- io and produce recommendations a binding contract so these provisions would likely be non-binding Affairs Canada, one of eight sched- testers were told it was because of for Chiefs at June’s annual general anyway; uled regional “consultations” to health and safety reasons. assembly. 5) FNCA are for essential programs and services. As in the past, discuss a proposed First Nations A CBC reporter was asked by Please check the COO web- these unilateral amendments to First Nation Funding Agreements are Education Act. an Aboriginal Affairs offi cial to site http://chiefs-of-ontario.org/ put to our First Nations on a “take it or leave it” basis. If they do not "I know some of our lead- leave the meeting. regularly for updates and feel free agree, they will not get their funding. This creates duress in a fi du- ers are (in the meeting)," he said. Meanwhile, the Chiefs of On- to contact Education Coordinator ciary relationship whether they state it or not. "But they're going in there because tario, coordinating body for the 134 Julia Candlish at [email protected] or 6) Considering that the legislative standards in proposed legisla- they're so desperately underfunded First Nations in Ontario, pledged to (416) 597-1266 or Education As- tion have not yet been agreed to by parliament, let alone First Na- that they're trying to tell these peo- continue to support the position of sistant Sally Hare at educationas- tions, this shows a lack of good faith in dealing with First Nations. ple...change...what you're doing to First Nation leadership in Ontario [email protected] for further infor- our people. to oppose any activity related to the mation. In addition to the changes, your department took the liberty of "This isn't just a one-day rally removing the non-derogation clause that acknowledges First Nations’ here; we're going to be constantly Aboriginal and treaty rights, which is consistent with the Canada working to eradicate this. There's Constitution Act, 1982. No reason has been given for its removal and been many times they've tried to First Nations were given no warning of this omission. ram this... crap down our throats By withholding First Nation funding for such essential services, and there's no damn way we're go- INAC is in breach of its fi duciary obligations, indifferent to the “Hon- ing to accept it." our of the Crown”, and using coercive measures to limit a First Na- Madahbee said Prime Minis- tion’s ability to challenge your department’s unilateral amendments, ter Stephen Harper needs to visit a which is not consistent with a democratic government. dentist to rid himself of a bad case In consideration of the above, I am requesting that INAC remove of “truth decay”. the newly-incorporated conditions and restore funding agreements to Protestors expressed particular the standard agreements that were in place prior to this fi scal year. concern about a lack of consulta- This could be a temporary measure until INAC properly consults tion. with each First Nation and gives a reasonable explanation as to why "Basically consultation is being Anishinabek Nation Grand Chief Patrick Madahbee any changes are required. In a democracy, governments consult with done after they drafted the legisla- the party they are impacting and allow for reasonable debate and con- tion...they're doing it backwards," sideration, clearly this has not happened in this instance. said Emily King, one of the dem- Spend on school, not jail onstrators. "They should go to the I look forward to your reply. communities because the com- OTTAWA – The Assembly of First Nations is calling for action on a munities know what's best for the federal report that estimates incarceration rates for First Nations and Respectfully, children." Aboriginal adults at 10 times higher than for others. Laura Calmwind from Kitch- “It costs about 10 times more to incarcerate a person for one year enuhmaykoosib Inninuwug was than it does to educate them for single year of high school," said AFN among the demonstrators who Justice Portfolio holder, Alberta Regional Chief Cameron Alexis. “An expressed concern about how the investment in nurturing the self-esteem, ambition and dreams of our First Nations Education Act will children and youth will pay the greatest dividends and cost signifi - affect treaty rights. cantly less than having them end-up in the justice system. A holistic Patrick Wedaseh Madahbee "It's going to undermine the approach is required to address quality of life issues -- lifelong learn- Grand Council Chief treaty right to education," she said. ing, child welfare, housing, clean drinking water, infrastructure, envi- "Because once you put a treaty ronment, and jurisdiction.” Page 3 Anishinabek News May 2013 Anishinabek Alderville man one of the smartest people in Ottawa By Chloé Fedio Simpson was introduced to computers as a fi rst-year The Ottawa Citizen math student at the University of Waterloo in 1967. OTTAWA — Alfred Simpson picks a worn copy of Pinoc- “There was something funny there called computers,” chio off a bookshelf in his Vanier apartment and memories he recalls. “I was hooked. I spent half my time in the com- of his early education in a one-room schoolhouse on the puter lab.” Alderville First Nation reserve rush back. But his humble roots and immense respect for his fi rst “I didn’t learn the alphabet until I started Grade 1. I school teacher in Alderville — who had been tasked with fi nished this book by the end of Grade 2 — it took me two juggling subject matters for all students up to Grade 8 — years to learn how to read,” he recalls. led him to pursue that vocation himself. He didn’t realize that he was behind other students his “All my life I wanted to be a teacher,” he says. age until he started taking a bus 30 kilometres to the off- After graduation in 1971, he went on to teachers’ col- reserve school in Cobourg, Ont., in Grade 7. That was the lege at Lakehead University in Thunder Bay. year he learned cursive writing. “Everything was fi ne until I started student teaching. I But it wouldn’t take long for Simpson to catch up, then hated it. I had an aversion to telling other people what to quickly surpass his peers. do. I don’t like to enforce my will on anyone.” That’s because Simpson is a certifi ed genius. He soon found satisfaction in giving orders to inani- The 64-year-old is the membership offi cer for the Pro- mate machines. metheus Society, a high-IQ association that admits only “The thing I like about computer programming is that those whose scores place them in the 99.997th percentile. computers do what you tell them to do, not what you want (Simpson has been part of a handful of high-IQ societies. them to do. That’s something I learned very early.” Perhaps the best known is Mensa, relatively much less dis- Alfred Simpson lives modestly in a rent-controlled He estimates he has logged 95,000 hours of computer criminating in admitting the 98th percentile, or top two per apartment. – Photo by Julie Oliver, Ottawa Citizen time — that’s 17 per cent of his 64 years. cent.) “It was an organization that sort of fi lled the void.” Simpson’s computer crashed in 2000. Since then, he Simpson was in high school when he fi rst realized he With other members of the group he was able to broach keeps a backup of his emails on a 15-gigabyte USB key in had an exceptional mind, one that could quickly grasp con- topics that he might otherwise avoid. his pocket. He’s up to 100,000. cepts and understand them on a higher level without much “Nobody would say, ‘Pardon?’ or ‘Sorry?’ or ‘What are “In case the whole house burns down,” he said. “I don’t guidance. you talking about?’ They would actually understand what leave the house without it. Maybe I’m paranoid, but com- “That is strange, that we’re all created differently. That you are talking about.” puters crash.” was an awakening,” he says. His son, Taynar Simpson, was only ever a passive His fi rst computer-related job was in Ottawa as a pro- While extraordinary intelligence might seem like a su- member, occasionally reading the Mensa newsletter. grammer for Indian and Northern Affairs Canada in 1972. perpower, it also comes at a cost. He was surprised when he fi rst found out about his fa- He has also worked in London and Toronto, doing various “The hard part is the loneliness. I live alone. I have ther’s genius status. jobs as a programmer and operating systems administrator. books and very few friends,” he says. “The only thing that “I didn’t believe him,” Taynar Simpson says. “Through “He’s a master of so many languages that have gone makes the loneliness bearable is family.” time, I fi gured out he was.” extinct,” his son said. “He does keep his skill set sharp.” A framed photo of his son and daughter, along with their In day-to-day life, he says, his dad is a “regular guy.” As Simpson’s 65th birthday approaches, his life can be spouses and children, hangs on the wall of his small apart- But when it comes to science and computers, his intelli- best described as peaceful. ment. The love of his life died of carbon monoxide poi- gence shines through. He enjoys long talks with his dad He doesn’t smoke or drink — his grandmother’s infl u- soning in the spring of 1986, when she pulled over to rest about the origin of the universe and coming up with argu- ence. while driving back home to London from Toronto alone. ments to debunk the dark energy theory. “I have never smoked a cigarette in my life. I have nev- They had been married nearly 15 years. Most of all, he says, his father is a caring, supportive er even had a teaspoon of beer. I made the decision very “She fell asleep and didn’t wake up,” Simpson recalls. man who has always been there to offer advice. young.” “Total disbelief, total denial for months after what hap- The elder Simpson has had various computer program- pened.” ming and coding jobs over the years, but he now runs his The full version of this story can be found at www.an- As a grieving single father, he joined Mensa with his own independent business — Totem Consulting — design- ishinabeknews.ca. It fi rst appeared in the April 13, 2013 two young children who had just lost their mother. His son ing websites, databases and applications from home. edition of the Ottawa Citizen. and daughter had both achieved the requisite IQ scores. It was a career he initially resisted. Gord has IN BRIEF new set Ron George named scholar Ron George will join the Windsor Law School as Ianni-Scholar-in-Residence, effective July 2013. of wheels In making the announcement, Camille Cam- eron, Dean of the law school, said: “Ron will By Monique DuBray continue to offer courses in Aboriginal Law. He NORTH BAY – Gordon Mi- will also work with us to increase our curriculum anscum has another new set of content and course offerings in Aboriginal Law wheels. and Legal Studies, build our connections with Ab- Ron George A brand new gurney, equipped original communities and enhance our efforts to with a shiny leather bed and 24- recruit Aboriginal students.” inch rubber tires was presented Following 15 years as a First Nations Constable with the Kettle in April to the Canadore College Point Police Service, he took on the role of Inspector/Special Advisor graduate, for whom fund-raising on First Nations Policing for the Ontario Provincial Police and then efforts provided a new van in Superintendent and Aboriginal Liaison – Operations, assigned to the 2011. Offi ce of the Provincial Commander. “Wow - there’s a lot of people to thank - everyone who fund- Gordon with son Izaiah at Canadore College Crystal wins fi rst Juno raised and made donations when push myself, and not a battery op- ago. When he found out that the REGINA–Crystal Shawanda’s Just Like You has they didn’t have to do anything,” erated one,” he says. “One time, business administration student been selected as Aboriginal Album of the Year, said the 51-year-old after the pre- I almost didn’t make it home had to make a seven-kilometre winning a Juno award from the Canadian Academy sentation in the college’s First because the battery almost died. trip home, he started his fund- of Recording Arts and Sciences. Peoples Centre. Plus this one keeps me in shape!” raising efforts. The country singer/songwriter, now 30, is a Accompanied by his wife and Canadore students and profes- “I don’t know that I’ve ever citizen of Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve Crystal son, Mianscum, from the James sors, North Bay-Nipissing Rotary met anyone with such a positive on Manitoulin Island. Shawanda Bay Cree community of Oujé- Club, Union of Ontario Indians approach to life,” said Peltier. ” This was Shawanda’s fi rst Juno. She was nominated for Artist of Bougoumou, was all smiles as he and Anishinabek Nation Seven Peltier was also the backbone the Year in 2009, and Country Recording of the Year for her song accepted the gurney. He has been Generations Charity helped raise of a project that started four years “Dawn of a New Day”. restricted to a wheelchair bed due the $8,500 cost of the custom- ago to provide Gordon with a cus- Her fi rst single, "You Can Let Go," was the fastest rising single to paraplegia that was caused by a made gurney. tomized van to transport himself in Canadian history, reaching Top Five in Canada and Top 20 in the car accident 37 years ago. Lying Canadore recruiting offi cer and his gurney to places too far U.S. Her 2008 album Dawn of a New Day was Billboard's highest- face down, he relies on his arms Gerard Peltier fi rst noticed Mians- for him to wheel. charting album ever by a Native American, selling over 400,000 cop- to wheel himself around the city. cum wheeling around town and For complete version of this ies. CMT aired a six-part documentary, Crystal: Living the Dream. “I prefer a gurney that I can the college campus a few years story, visit anishinabeknews.ca. Page 4 Anishinabek News May 2013 Maanda ndinendam /Opinion

The Anishinabek News is a monthly pub- lication of the Union of Ontario Indians (UOI). Views expressed are not necessar- ily the opinion or political position of the UOI. No portion of this paper, including ad- Harper not learning from ‘past mistakes’ vertisements, artwork, photos and edito- rial content may be reproduced without written permission of the Anishinabek News Editor or UOI Executive. First Nations know they have a good idea western frontier of what was then Canada. With the year almost half over, he has when the Harper government doesn’t want ignored repeated requests by First Nations Readers are invited to submit letters, articles, and photos for publication. Please anything to do with it. As the Canadian Encyclopedia puts it: to acknowledge the importance of the Royal include your name, address and tele- “There is no doubt that Pontiac’s military Proclamation. phone number on all material submitted. All submissions will be reviewed for pub- That’s how it is in 2013 as we commemo- success played a major role in demonstrating lication based on priority of interest and rate the 250th anniversary of the Royal Proc- to the British that aboriginal peoples were This is the same Stephen Harper who edited for clarity of thought, taste, brevity and legal implications. Remuneration will lamation of 1763 – a document fundamental still masters of their own ancestral lands. made the following statement Jan. 24, 2012 be paid for submissions only if a written to the formation of Canada -- while the fed- That principle was written into the Royal at the close of the Crown-First Nations Gath- agreement with the Editor is made prior to publication. eral government is publicly mute about it. Proclamation and is the basis of First Nations ering in Ottawa: NOTE: All formal comments and complaints land claims to this day.” “Since fi rst contact and the issuance of must be addressed to Editorial Board c/o Anishinabek News. Most Canadians know little or nothing one of our founding constitutional docu- Editor: Maurice Switzer about this watershed event, which historians ments, the Royal Proclamation of 1763, the Assistant Editor: Marci Becking say made possible the settlement and founda- evolving Crown – First Nations relationship Media Specialist: Lisa Abel tion of their nation. has helped shape modern-day Canada. First Coordinator: Priscilla Goulais Contributors: Jennifer Ashawasegai, Nations fought as allies of the Crown in the Jorge Barrera, Eden Beaudin, Sarah Blackwell, Holly Brodhagen, Brian Charles, Issued on October 7, 1763 in the name of American Revolution (1775-1783), the War Melissa Cooper, Emilie Corbiere, Monique King George III, the Proclamation is certain- of 1812; and have continued their support of DuBray, Rick Garrick, Charley Hebert, Karl Hele, Margaret Hele, Bruno Henry, Basil ly accorded signifi cant status in the Canadian Canada in every major confl ict since. Un- Johnston, Kelly J. Lendsay, Christine Smith McFarlane, Maureen Pelletier, Greg Encyclopedia, which says it was issued: “to fortunately, there have been low points in Plain, Ben Powless, Ed Regan, Laura establish a basis of government administra- our relationship. A series of misguided and Robinson, Muriel Sawyer, Chad Solomon, Dean St. Germain, Richard Wagamese. tion in the North American territories formal- harmful government policies in our past has PH: 705-497-9127 ~ 1-877-702-5200 ly ceded by France to Britain in the Treaty of shaken First Nations confi dence in our rela- FX: 705-497-9135 Maurice Switzer WEB: www.anishinabeknews.ca Paris, 1763, following the Seven Years’ War. tionship. E-MAIL: [email protected] MAIL: P.O. Box 711, Nipissing First Nation, North Bay, ON, P1B 8J8 “It established the constitutional frame- So the Royal Proclamation was issued, “We cannot undo the mistakes of the past, work for the negotiation of Indian treaties and with it the description of a huge swath of but we can learn from them and affi rm that with the aboriginal inhabitants of large sec- central North America that was to be a vast they will not be repeated. In this year, the tions of Canada. Indian reserve, in which the inhabitants were 200th anniversary of the War of 1812 and to be “unmolested” by those who were set- with next year being the 250th anniversary “As such, it has been labelled an ‘Indian tling lands that would become Canada and of the Royal Proclamation of 1763, it serves Magna Carta’, or an ‘Indian Bill of Rights’. the United States. as an appropriate time to reinvigorate the Crown-First Nation relationships.” “The document is referred to in Section Word was sent out by Sir William John- 25 of the Constitution Act, 1982. This provi- son, Superintendent of Indian Affairs for So, Prime Minister, when does the “rein- sion details that there is nothing in Canada’s British North America, that he wished to vigorating” start? Charter of Rights and Freedoms to diminish meet with the nations of Indians who lived PUBLISHING CRITERIA the rights and freedoms that are recognized around the Great Lakes basin to offer them Maurice Switzer is a citizen of the Mississau- GOAL as those of aboriginal peoples by the Royal the terms of the Royal Proclamation and seek gas of Alderville First Nation. He serves as To publish a quality newspaper and related publications designed to foster Proclamation.” a military alliance with them. director of communications for the Union of pride and share knowledge about An- Ontario Indians and editor of the Anishina- ishinabek current affairs, culture, goals, What does this mean for the average Ca- The largest gathering of Indian leaders in bek News. and accomplishments. nadian? the continent’s history – an estimated 2500 OBJECTIVES chiefs and headmen – gathered at Niagara in To provide information that refl ects the Creator’s four original gifts to the It means that the mightiest military-polit- July of 1764. They accepted Johnson’s prom- Anishinabek: ical power in world history – the British Em- ises, two Wampum Belts, and his promise Respect: To welcome diversity pire – realized that they did not have a hope that “your people will never want for the ne- and encourage a free exchange of of creating permanent settlements in North cessities of life, so long as the world exists.” opinions that may differ without being disagreeable. Fair and humourous America, or of keeping military foes like the comments are welcomed, but not French, and in 1812 the Americans, at bay The groundwork was in place for the ridicule or personal attacks. without the Indians as their allies. peaceful settlement of Canada, and treaties Honesty: Debwewin – speaking the truth – is the cornerstone of our newspaper’s that would promise the sharing of traditional content. After the 1763 Treaty of Paris sealed Indian territories. Sharing: Providing opportunities for Britain’s military triumph over the French people from the four corners of the Anishinabek Nation to tell stories and in North America, the Odawa leader Pontiac What has Prime Minister Stephen Harper record achievements, and to keep our and a relative handful of warriors captured done to celebrate this historic milestone? citizens informed about activities of the or controlled nine of 11 British forts on the Union of Ontario Indians. Strength: To give a voice to the vision of the Anishinabek Nation that celebrates our history, culture and language, promotes our land, treaty, and aboriginal rights, and supports the development of healthy and prosperous communities. It helps to love the sound, feel and weight of words I love dictionaries. be writers?” My fi rst reply was, “Never listen I think I always have or at least I have ever to advice.” But I changed it to, “Grow to love The current circulation of the Anishinabek News since I fell in love with words. I don’t read the feel of words on your tongue.” is 7,000 copies, with 6,000 mailed and 1,000 them cover to cover anymore. I used to but When you’re a writer you have to love distributed at various events. Annual subscriptions are $25 . I started to notice how much of an elephan- the sound and feel and weight of words. Ac- tine pedant I was becoming and gave it up so I tually, if you’re going to do anything in this DEADLINE could keep friends. life, that’s pretty darn good advice. When you FOR JUNE But I love having a dictionary around. can communicate clearly and directly, you just Advertising and There’s one on my desk in close reach. Some- naturally do everything better. News submissions: times it’s comforting to know that when I’m Native people ask me, “Why is it so im- MAY 20 busy pouring words onto paper that the right portant to learn English words?” I tell them For more information or inquiries to the Anishinabek word and the right spelling are right there Richard Wagamese because it’s not just our own people we have News related to advertising and circulation issues where I need them. to communicate with. We need to share our please call our Toll-free number: 1-800-463-6408 When you’re a writer, words are your during my work day – plus it comes in handy stories with everyone if we’re going to build We acknowledge the fi nancial support of the bread and butter. It really helps to have a fa- too. They have an audio player so you can a better country and a better world. There’s a Government of Canada throught the Canada Periodical Fund of the Department of Canadian cility with them and an earnest desire to keep learn correct pronunciations. dictionary word for that – it’s “spiritual”. Heritage. on learning more and more of them. I used to I remember hearing a story about an aspir- Last time I looked that was a native word carry a notebook around in my back pocket so ing artist. She went up to a great painter and too. I could scribble words down and look them asked, “What does it take to be a great paint- up later er?” The artist thought a moment and said, Richard Wagamese is Ojibway from Wabase- ISSN 1182-3178 ANISHINABEK NEWS (PRINT) Now I get e-mails from an online diction- “You have to love the smell of paint.” mong First Nation in Northwestern Ontario. ISSN 1923-0710 ANISHINABEK NEWS (ONLINE) ary. They send me a new word for every day. Someone asked me one time, “What ad- His latest book, Indian Horse is available in CANADA POST CUSTOMER #1905929 I fi nd that it serves a very utilitarian function vice do you give Native people who want to stores now. Trade Paperback $21.95 ISBN AGREEMENT #0040011021 978-1-55365-402-5 Page 5 Anishinabek News May 2013 Maanda ndinendam /Opinion Canada’s national newspaper capitalizes ‘First Nations’ By Sylvia Stead But our reader, Michael Asch, that you do not capitalize titles if as a substitute for the word 'In- the problem with the current us- The Globe and Mail sent in a very well-reasoned argu- they are generic rather than specif- dian' which is always capitalized. age. The story said: "That fi rst na- I heard from a reader in Victo- ment on why this needed chang- ic. For example: "a prime minister Therefore it is the matter of equiv- tions, Inuit and Métis people are ria who wondered why The Globe ing. Professor Asch, an expert in could be expected to." versus "The alence. To change what they say is overrepresented in federal prisons and Mail did not capitalize the Canada on the issue, is profes- Prime Minister is expected to." 'First Nations' to 'fi rst nations' is is not news." Prof. Asch noted that term "fi rst nation." It was an excel- sor emeritus of anthropology at He noted that First Nations has to change 'Indians' to 'indians.' In in that phrase, "fi rst nations" was lent question and one deserving of the University of Alberta and an become a term of self-designation short, if it is a mistake not to capi- being used as a synonym for "Indi- a serious look. The Globe's Style adjunct professor in anthropol- among those that society has la- talize 'Indians,' than it is a mistake ans" and you would never use that Guide said very simply that when ogy and political science at the belled "Indian" in the past. "People not to capitalize 'First Nations.' term without capitalizing it. the term fi rst nation is used "it is University of Victoria. He has once identifi ed (perhaps even self- His very strong argument was So you will notice that The lower case unless we are giving been studying political relations identifi ed) as 'Indians' now use the passed on to senior editors at The Globe's style has changed and the the band's formal name: Kettle and between indigenous peoples and term to describe themselves col- Globe who were considering that organization will capitalize First Stony Point First Nation. The term Canada for 40 years. lectively and individually. And, change and also whether to make Nations. applies to status Indian bands that I asked him why he thought the when they do that in writing, it is further updates to the Style Guide. belong to the Assembly of First capitalization was more correct always using capital letters -- that During that time period, Prof. Asch Syliva Stead is the Public Editor Nations." than the grammatical argument is, it strikes me that it is being used noted a Globe story that showed for the Globe and Mail. MAIL Harper: Get out! Briefl y reading the 2013 budget for the fi rst time, I would like to know how long are we as First Nations people going to let this Stephen Harper sell us out, our land and natural resources? Brian Mulroney, Harper, they have all been at Bilderberg meetings –120 of the most pow- erful in business, banking, heads of state, politics in general, from across the globe conduct a se- cret weekend conference anu- ally and basically decide who is who and when they are going to take over North America. We need to get the govern- ment out and take back what is inherently ours. Harper sells us out totally our Treaties will be worth nothing. Joanne Hardy Robinson-Superior 1850 Saluting Korean vets In 2013, we mark the Year of the Korean War Veteran and the 60th anniversary of the Korean War armistice. As a member of The War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program, I am proud to be part of its Operation Lega- cy, a group of committed young people who are dedicated to Indigenous Peoples also have collective rights preserving Canada’s military By Daniel Wilson Enthusiasm for even these nadians diminish the rights that tions doesn't help matters. People heritage. Canadians are familiar with in- rights has limits. Free assembly pertain to the "aboriginal peoples want to protect these rights, but as Throughout the year, tribute dividual rights. Those are the val- can inconvenience commuters. of Canada." This includes equality things stand, the citizens of an In- will be paid to the more than ues American TV shows tell us are Due process means that some rights. digenous nation are unable to hold 26,000 Canadians who served the foundation of modern society. people who are guilty according to Indigenous rights existed be- either Canada or Indigenous gov- in the Korean War, including the We have freedom of expression, the local radio talk show don't go fore Canada's Constitution, and in ernments to account. 516 who gave their lives. The religion, association and assembly. to jail once a court has heard the Section 35 of that document, they The responsibility of an Indig- War Amps vignette, Canadians We have civil and legal rights such facts. But for many, it is collective are "recognized and affi rmed." enous nation should be to its peo- in Korea, on The War Amps as voting and due process. "Every rights that are the real problem. Further, "In this Act, 'aboriginal ple. But Canada makes Indigenous YouTube channel (youtube. individual" has equal rights ac- One collective right appears in peoples of Canada' includes the governments accountable to the com/warampsofcanada). cording to Section 15 of the Char- the second part of Section 15 of the Indian, Inuit and Métis peoples of bureaucracy in Ottawa rather than Graham Spero ter of Rights and Freedoms in the Charter, allowing for affi rmative Canada." their citizens. Ottawa Constitution Act, 1982. action to ameliorate disadvantage. Note the use of the word "peo- Empower Indigenous people This is what many people think is ples" rather than "people." The to exercise their individual rights the extent of Indigenous rights -- difference is only one letter. Yet as citizens by allowing Indigenous "reverse discrimination" -- stand- that letter makes the difference peoples to exercise their collective ing in opposition to the fundamen- between rights held by individuals rights as nations. tal value of individual equality. and those held by a collective, by While Indigenous citizens do nations. Daniel Wilson served 10 years as have the same rights to equality as For example, the Government a diplomat in Canada’s Foreign other Canadians, Indigenous rights of Canada has a duty to consult Service, before working for the As- are a different matter altogether. Indigenous peoples on actions that sembly of First Nations as Senior Indigenous rights appear in affect their rights. It owes no such Director of Strategic Policy and Section 25 of the Charter, where it duty to individuals. The fact that Planning. He is of Mi’Kmaq-Irish says that none of the other rights Canada consistently fails to carry heritage. and freedoms guaranteed to Ca- out its duties to Indigenous na- Page 6 Anishinabek News May 2013 NNishnaabewin/Cultureishnaabewin/Culture

Father and son chiefs An exhibit by acclaimed contemporary artist Charles Pachter will be featured July 20, 2013 at the Orillia Museum of Art and History. Pachter’s work includes a number of paintings related to the War of 1812, including “Yellowhead Chiefs at the Narrows”. The father and son Anishinabek leaders of Rama First Nation both took part in the Battle of York on April 27, 1813 at present-day Toronto. Pachter’s steel and granite moose sculptures have been installed across Canada, and his children’s books, M is for Moose and Canada Counts are published by Cormorant Brooks. Language teachers ‘Gchi-nendama’ By Sharon Weatherall learning. I have found the immer- BEAUSOLEIL FN – Roseanne sion program goes back to the Monague is one of seven Chris- way we were taught as children tian Island language-keepers who – using facial expressions, body participated in a 160-hour im- movements and hand gestures." mersion program to equip them As a child Monague didn't to pass on Anishinaabemowin to know words, but used hand lan- young community members. guage to learn and when Elders For 13 years she has been talked to children they told stories working at the First Nation's day at the child's level. The three and care, teaching native language to four year olds she now teaches ab- tots. Growing up, her family spoke sorb the language as the fi rst step traditional Anishinaabemowin to learning for a good basic under- in the home but she attended In- standing when they enter kinder- dian Day School where students, garten. Monague shows her pupils including her siblings, were se- a picture and does the actions to verely reprimanded and strapped help them to understand. for speaking their own language. For example, in her class "I put my language to the back "miptoo" means running with an Language instructor Roseanne Monague helps Ava Love-Assance learn how to count in burner because they told us our image of a fi gure doing so; "niimi" Anishinaabemowin. language was not important when means dancing, "gchi-nendama" it came to getting jobs," says means happy, "ekozi' mean I'm Roseanne. "But ever since attend- tired and "wiisni" means eating – ing Lakehead University in 1992 I all of which can be demonstrated have always worked teaching lan- by facial expression and body guage. I notice now that the focus movements. The children sing of language conferences is turning songs and count to ten in Ojibway. to the way it was taught to us -- "They use the language at learning through speaking." home but the parents don't un- Anishnaabemowin Language derstand or know what they are Revitalization is a project fund- saying," says Monague. "We have ed through Canadian Heritage, taught the kids to be the learners Beausoleil First Nation Chief and and also the teachers to their par- Council, and BFN Social Services ents by sharing their knowledge." and Education. Participants in Im- Monague's siblings Glo- mersion Instructor Training were ria King and Leon King – both all fl uent speakers. community Elders and program "I loved the project and the graduates – are now sharing their way the instructors (Barb Nolan knowledge at the Guiding Lights and John Paul Mantano) taught Senior Centre. us," says Roseanne. "We all "Our instructors believed that worked together. The commit- the language is slowly disappear- ment to the program was most im- ing but realized it is still retained portant to me; when I signed up I on Christian Island," says Leon put everything else aside. I liked King. "It is thriving here." Adult graduates of Beausoleil language immersion program,front row, left: Rosanne Monague the philosophy and how the whole For a full version of this story, (daycare instructor), Myrtle Jamieson (elementary school instructor), Gloria King; back row, left:Roy course fi t into the natural way of please visit anishinabeknews.ca. Sylvester, Robert Monague Sr., Edward Mixemong, Charles Leon King. Page 7 Anishinabek News May 2013

Aniish na? Menawah Aaniish Anishinabemowin Giminadan Eshnikaazyin? Gagiginonshiwan Gigawabamin Bezhik, Niish, Niswi, Niiwiin, Naanwan, Nigodwaaswi, Niizhwaswi, Nishwaaswi, ZhaanGswi, Midaaswi

Maajtaadaa: start with a greeting By Laurie McLeod-Shabogesic However, if you don’t know/ Waynaboozhoo Kina Waya! have your Anishinabe name, then (Hello everyone!) simply state your English name.) I have been thinking about re- For example: launching the Anishinabemowin Msko-memengwaanh-kwe Phrase-A-Day e-mail program in n’dizhinikaaz support of Union of Ontario Indi- Red Butterfl y Woman ans staff interested in promoting is my name. our language. Laurie McLeod-Shabogesic Some might state their name I am not a fl uent speaker sound. a slightly longer more formal and it’s been a while since I In this case the oo in Boozhoo way…. have been home in M’Chigeeng, stands for a long vowel sound, as Msko-memengwaanh-kwe where Anishinabemowin is spo- found in the word “snow”, which niin dizhinikaaz ken regularly. is different from English, where Whether you use “n” or Maajtaadaa (“Let’s Begin”). it is used in words like: zoo, loop “niin” it still has the same mean- Boozhoo is the traditional etc. ing to shows ownership…it’s MY greeting of the Anishinabeg. It How do we introduce our- name. is used in formal greetings, such selves in Anishinaabemowin MY CLAN IS: as. meeting someone for the fi rst in a traditional setting, such as Mukwa n’doodem. time. a Sweat Circle? Depending on Bear is my clan/I am Bear It is derived from a tradi- where you are from, the teach- Clan. tional teaching about “Wayna- ings and ceremonial practices I AM FROM: boozhoo”, who is also known as may differ, but the following de- M’Chigeeng n’doonjibaa. Original Man, Anishinabe or the picts a simple introduction. M’Chigeeng is where I am Spirit Being who fi rst walked Generally speaking, you from. (Note: although “ndoon- Mother Earth. When we use might state: jibaa” is commonly accepted Waynaboozhoo to greet one an- • Boozhoo, my name is… to mean “where I am from”, it other, we honour and remember • My clan is… has a bit of a deeper meaning: him, not only for the teachings he • I am from… “M’Chigeeng is where my spirit brought to our people but for his Some might also add in: “I is from.”) work during the time of Creation am…” I AM: in shaping and forming the land. MY NAME IS: n’dizhinikaaz. Anishinabe n’daaw. I am Aanii: “Hello” (used in ca- (Spirit name/Anishinabe name) is Anishinabe. (Note: you can She is Precious sual greetings), as in saying “Hi” my name. say anything here -- you are a Precious Solomon, a student at Biidaabin Kinoomaagegamik in to a friend. (The teaching is that once you student/grandmother, etc. -- it Sagamok, receives the Rose Nadjiwan-ba Memorial Award for Note: when you see two vow- state your Spirit Name then all doesn’t specifi cally have to be her 2nd Place fi nish in the elementary school division at the 2013 els together in written Ojibwe/ of Creation recognizes you and your nation/nationality. You Anishinaabemowin Teg language conference in Sault Ste. Marie, Ojibway, it means that it is pro- knows your place and role etc., could say: Ogitchidaa n’daaw, Michigan. Martina Osawamick, organization president, makes the nounced with a long vowel within Creation. meaning: “I am a warrior.”) presentation. – Photo by Bruno Henry Page 8 Anishinabek News May 2013

Pic River’s Joe Moses presented a Roy Thomas print to Andrée Robichaud, chair of the Aboriginal Advisory Committee and president and CEO of TBRHSC the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre to help improve Aboriginal health care in the 375-bed acute-care facility that serves Thunder Bay and northwestern Ontario. Paintings part of healing process By Rick Garrick committee helps us to engage with the Aboriginal THUNDER BAY – Pic River’s Joe Moses thinks community on initiatives such as developing cultur- paintings are part of the healing process for First Na- ally-appropriate health plans, and creating a more tions patients. welcoming environment for Aboriginal patients and “It’s a fi rst step towards creating a welcoming their families.” environment for the Aboriginal patients that are com- Fort William’s Sandra Cornell, another member ing from out of town,” says Moses, a board member of the Aboriginal Advisory Committee, looks for- of the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foun- ward to achieving better health services for First Na- dation, in presenting a framed Roy Thomas print to tions community members. the local hospital. “We hope it just (adds) a little bit “It’s slowly coming along — people are becom- of a feeling towards home, wherever that may be.” ing more aware — but it’s still got a long way to Thomas was an acclaimed Woodlands School go,” Cornell says. “We are getting more and more ‘Hand-y’ in Wasauksing artist from Long Lake #58 First Nation who died at Aboriginal health care providers in the system and a WASAUKSING FN – Sage Jeffries proudly displays his hand-sewn the age of 55 in 2004. His work is featured in Thun- lot of them are able to speak the language.” deer hide moccasins made with healthy future generations in mind. der Bay’s Ahnisnabae Art Gallery, operated by his Cornell says the recent hiring of a First Nations Grade 5 and 6 students recently participated in an information wife Louise. physician — Eagle Lake’s Shannon Wesley — is a session abou Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Disorder at Wasauksing The Thomas print was the fi rst of a number of change for the better. Kinomaugewgamik. The attentive students learned there is no safe paintings that the foundation plans to donate to the “She has a lot of experience working in the amount of alcohol a mother can drink during pregnancy. The class TBRHSC. north,” Cornell says. “It’s people that will make the is taught by Deina Bomberry. – Photo by Laura Liberty “Any bit of home, whether it’s a painting or a difference. We are getting more Aboriginal health friendly face or being able to speak your own lan- care providers in the system, which will make that guage, like Kanita Johnson (Aboriginal liaison, renal difference.” COO provides health services) provides, is a big step towards being com- Cornell says many elderly patients from across fortable,” Moses says. the region, including Robinson Superior communi- Johnson is one of 25 members of the Aborigi- ties, need assistance with translation if they do not benefi ts guide nal Advisory Committee who were introduced to the have good English language skills. TORONTO – The Chiefs of On- public at an April 22 event. The committee includes “They’re hemming and hawing and nodding tario have produced guides for representatives from Aboriginal organizations across their heads, but are they really understanding what First Nation members with status northwestern Ontario, patient and family advisors their diagnosis is?” Cornell asks. “Are they really to learn about the health benefi ts and hospital leaders who act in an advisory capac- understanding their medication, what’s given to they have access to under Cana- ity to implement the Aboriginal strategic direction of them? No, they’re not.” da’s Non-Insured Health Benefi ts the health centre’s current strategic plan. In addition to Johnson and Wesley, TBRHSC has program (NIHB). “When our current strategic plan was being hired an Aboriginal engagement lead and patient ad- A large book, condensed ver- able to download at http://www. developed, we recognized that Aboriginal health vocate and two other staff dedicated to linking Ab- sion, and pocket guide are avail- chiefs-of-ontario.org/node/63. needed to be a priority, and so it was identifi ed as original patients and families with healthcare pro- (one) of our four strategic directions,” says Andrée viders, facilitating access to care, services, resources Robichaud, TBRHSC president and CEO. “The and culturally-appropriate support. Exercise counters FASD effects By Laura Liberty Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. results are not likely in humans, It’s unfortunate it has taken so In 2009 Christie published a paper because of the complexity of their long for researchers to recognize describing how brain damage in brains, but he still strongly recom- that physical exercise may be one rats with FASD can be completely mends that physical activity be a answer to disruptive behaviour in reversed through exercise --results prescribed modality for children the classroom. he calls “pretty darned exciting.” affected by FASD. Brian Christie, a neuroscien- Christie found that if he ex- Christie believes that exercise Youth playing hockey on Lake Temagami. tist from University of Victoria, posed the rats with FASD to ex- may be able to elevate cognitive was one of the fi rst researchers to ercise, their indicators would functioning in a child who has free time. of social skills, coordination, and discover that exercise promotes improve to the point of being in- FASD to the level of a child who A 2009 Active Healthy Kids impulse control are all factors that the birth of brains cells in the hip- distinguishable from other rats. does not.. Report Card on physical activity may affect a child diagnosed with pocampus, an area of the brain in- The exciting thing about this ex- Further studies indicate the for children of youth states that FASD. volved with learning and memory. periment was the use of adult rats need for youth with disabilities to children with disabilities are not Teachers can reverse this trend He studies the mechanisms which shows it is never too late to participate in physical activities. only missing out on receiving the of non-participation by children of how exercise can help reduce benefi t from the physiological ef- Some 60% of disabled youth health benefi ts of being physically with FASD by incorporating basic the effects of various ailments on fects of exercise. report that they seldom or never active; they are also missing out exercises and movement to music many diseases and, most recently, He stresses that such dramatic play games with friends in their on the cognitive benefi ts. Lack in gym class and in the classroom. Page 9 Anishinabek News May 2013 Mno-bmaadziwin/Healthy Living Farm tales It turns out that goats are wimps By Jennifer Ashawasegai horning to consider. When con- Not all hay is created equal. ducting my research into the latter That was news to me last spring concerns, I learned that dis-bud- when I took my young Billy to ding/de-horning was apparently the vet. Billy was on a rich diet a controversial topic among goat of goat ration (grain) and protein farmers. This is different than rich alfalfa hay. what I have observed: it’s less I’m very glad I caught that controversial than what’s more real quick, or Billy wouldn’t be convenient. Typically, according here. Since I didn’t know that to my observations, dairy goats goats were ruminants (four stom- are dis-budded or de-horned and achs) when I brought home Billy, meat goats are not. I knew even less about their diet. Leaving the horns on or I had brought home a few square choosing to do away with them is bales of alfalfa hay for my buck- a matter of ease when handling. ling (young male goat). On a visit Dairy goats are handled often and Goats are cheap to feed – $30-$40 in hay lasts 3-4 months. to the vet, Dr. Gaw questioned me milked, so horns aren’t a good on the type of hay I was feeding idea because they’ll get tangled the vet to have them dis-budded right, goats are notorious wimps them out of the barn one at a time, Billy. When I answered her, she in milking equipment or they’re or they’ve been disbudded by the and scream really loud when be- give them a small bowl of grain raised her eyebrows and told me just a pain to work around. Most farmers where I purchased them. ing subjected to anything uncom- and trim away! Since they know he should be eating good quality, meat goat farmers will leave the The day is becoming inevitable fortable! what’s coming, each one gets ex- fi rst-cut hay. That hay has much horns, which are a benefi t since when I will have to do this pro- Speaking of uncomfortable, cited about hoof trimming day! less calories and protein. It was a the horns serve as “handles” when cess myself. hoof-trimming is another neces- good thing he was still a kid, or working with them. I’ve also had to deal with sary part of goat care. Some farm- Jennifer Ashawasegai is a free- there could have been trouble. If I decided to have polled goats medicating goats that got sick ers lean the goat against a wall and lance journalist and citizen of left on the alfalfa hay, Billy could (without horns) simply because I from parasites and also have trim the hooves with hoof trim- Henvey Inlet First Nation who de- have bloated to death! didn’t want them getting tangled given them booster shots myself, mers or a hoof knife, others may cided to start a hobby farm at her Food is not the only thing to in fencing or anything else for any which is also not another favou- lay them down and trim. Goats Alban residence. be wary of when raising goats. length of time and also because rite part of caring for goats. I’m aren’t fond of being manhandled She is a previous winner of the There are worms, parasites, hoofs we have grandchildren. However, squeamish when I get a needle. like that, and since I don’t have Debwewin Citation for Excel- to trim and dis-budding or de- so far, I’ve brought my goats to Try to imagine sticking one into very many goats, I take a much lence in First Nations Story-tell- an animal that screams. That’s more genteel approach. I take ing Buckwheat Changes is not boost wheat! By Sarah Blackwell energy Buckwheat Squares By Sarah Blackwell I love this recipe! It is so ver- This column will feature the satile and can be made as sweet journey of one Anishinaabe fam- as you want it. Buckwheat is not ily – mine – as we made the tran- part of the wheat family at all; sition from sickness and disease it is a fruit seed that is related into wellness. to sorrel and rhubarb. Buck- Two years ago Fred Belle- wheat groats are triangular and Buckwheat Squares feuille, legal counsel at the Union the roasted form is often referred of Ontario Indians and his wife room temperature. To melt it, to as “kasha”. This recipe uses – me -- both faced life-threaten- place the container in your sink Fred and Sarah. www.facebook.com/SarahBlackwellHealthCoach Buckwheat fl our which can be ing diseases. Through lifestyle found at your local bulk food fi lled with hot water (like a bath) and diet changes our lives have processed foods. I now eat a lot making the time. I now go for a store or health food store. This until it melts. Measure out the evolved and infl uenced those of fresh fruit and vegetables that walk every single day, rain, snow recipe is a healthier version of amount required and add to the around us. We feel the effects are good for my heart and overall or hail for a minimum of 30 min- bannock and can be even used as mixture. by having more energy, sleeping health”. utes. I also started to integrate a birthday cake if you just add a 1. Prepare chia egg replace- better, reducing medications and As parents, once you start weights into my exercise routine. homemade natural sweet topping. ment; and melt the coconut oil for each have lost excess weight and to make changes in your own This has helped me lose weight, 3 cups of light buckwheat the recipe; fat. choices you will see how much makes me stronger and builds fl our 2. Mix Dry ingredients in a If you look at the Ojibway of an impact it has on your own muscle mass. I also will try yoga 2 tbsp baking powder large glass bowl; word for good health, it is Bi- children. When we made green once in a while when Sarah does 1 tbsp coconut sugar 3. Make a well in the middle maadzwin. Good health is not smoothies the children wanted to it.” 1 tbsp Ceylon cinnamon of the dry ingredients; only the absence of disease, but try them too! Now that we have I practice yoga at home where 1.5 – 2 cups of almond milk 4. Add the wet ingredients also the positive infl uences on changed what we eat, our chil- the children will also participate. Chia Egg replacement* into the well of the dry ingredi- our body, mind and spirit. It is dren have eliminated packaged They have learned more about ¼ cup coconut oil (melted al- ents; about embracing all areas of our foods and eat whole, fresh foods their body and breath, and my ready)** 5. Mix completely stirring lives to create Bimaadzwin. As as a part of their daily nutrition. oldest even integrates this in her ½ cup raw honey well and ensuring there are no dry Anishinaabe people how do we In addition to making changes bedtime routine to help her sleep ½ cup unsweetened apple- clumps of fl our; do that? How do we create this in our diets our family has also better. sauce 6. The mixture will be very for ourselves when we face many integrated more physical activity This family’s journey into Directions: ooey, gooey from the honey! challenges, whether it is fi nan- into our lives. Since Fred works wellness is so much more than *To make the chia egg re- 7. Pour into a large casserole cial, emotional, spiritual, social at a desk and travels consistently can be covered in this short col- placement, place 3 tbsp of chia baking dish; or even physical? through the month his exercise umn. However, we are discover- seeds in a small bowl and mix 8. Bake at 350F for 25-30 Fred shares what worked for routine was less consistent than ing what Bimadziwin means to us with 6 tbsp of water. Mix together minutes him; “I removed foods I knew the rest of the family. as a family and as parents. When and set aside to let the chia absorb Cool and cut into squares. were making me sick. I had to fo- “I used to think there wasn’t you fi ll your body with more oxy- the water. Serve with fresh fruit, maple syr- cus on my heart health, so I start- enough time to exercise,” he says, gen, through food or exercise, **coconut oil will solidify at up or margarine. ed with reducing sugar, meat and “but now I realize that I wasn’t you will feel and sleep better. Page 10 Anishinabek News May 2013

ASK HOLLY By Holly Brodhagen [email protected] Grief can bring us together “Kenneth Anthony Brodhagen passed away at his home in Astor- ville on Wednesday, April 3, 2013 at the age of 62, embraced by his loved ones, after a short battle with cancer.”

Those are the words that began the hardest piece of writing I have ever had to do, the obituary for my father. For me it was also the beginning of my healing from his death. Pri- or to his passing, my editor suggested that I consider writing about how my father’s illness brought our family and friends together. I thank him for giving me the opportunity to express my grief and share this experience. I have always known that family and friends will band together in a time of crisis or illness. My parents have always been well-liked and that is evident by the wonderful friendships they have formed. The Parents Hugh Martel and Mindy Lariviere with Carson and Jacie Martel at Nipissing First Nation’s same can be said for my own friends, since they helped to care for my “Welcoming Babies” ceremony on April 27. family while I spent time with my parents. Extended family came to visit and provided endless support. I think what amazed me the most was the support of the community Nipissing welcomes new babies at large. In his fi nal days my father was under the wonderful care of the Red Cross Palliative Care team and the Community Care Access By Marci Becking Lalonde. Centre. They provided medical support and information and emotional NIPISSING FN – Second-time parents Mindy Anyone who was born in 2012 was invited – support at a time when we needed it. Lariviere and Hugh Martel say that they come to and even some older children of families who have There was also the local quilting group that gave him a cancer quilt Nipissing’s “Welcoming Babies” ceremony to cel- moved back to the community. to keep him warm during treatments. The volunteers and families at ebrate all the new babies that have been born into George Couchie, OPP Sergeant and Nipissing the Daffodil Lodge where my parents stayed while receiving treatment their community. FN citizen, says that when First Nations communi- helped them pass the time and gave them a chance to share their ex- “We come to meet the other babies,” says Lariv- ties were healthy, everyone had a role to look after periences. And fi nally, the funeral home coordinator who made taking iere who is mom to two-year old Jacie and six- the babies. care of my father’s remains as easy as possible. month old Carson. “New parents get a lot of com- “Now, because of the residential schools legacy, The lesson I have learned from this experience is that the families munity support and we also get support from our we have Elders looking after babies,” says Couchie. left behind after the passing of a loved one are not just dealing with parents.” “Our families are unbalanced. We need to help grief, but also the business of dying. There is paperwork to be signed, Nipissing First Nation’s Health Services Man- young families understand that they are responsible decisions to be made and a lot of money changes hands. It seems to me ager, Kimberly Lalonde, says that spring is a time for that child. Common sense and common action that at such a time of sorrow we should try not to have to make those to honour the new babies. are two separate things.” decisions and we should not rely on the family to know what we want “We will have water and berry teachings to- Nipissing’s Welcoming Babies celebration be- done. day for the parents of about 20 new babies,” says gan in 2001. I will be looking into writing a will outlining my wishes and will even begin the process of prepaying for my own burial. This will hope- fully take some of the burden off my own family. I don’t believe that anyone can know how they are going to react More calls for national inquiry into when a loved one passes away. Books, websites and professionals will tell you that every person deals with grief in their own personal way. murdered and missing women Luckily there are people out there who can help you work through the process. Don’t be afraid to seek out support from your religious or cul- TORONTO – LEAF (Women’s tural advisors, community support groups, social media sites and from Legal Education Action Fund) and your family and friends. its sister organization West Coast Thank you to everyone who supported my family at our time of LEAF applaud the call by nine need and who continues to share in our grief and sorrow. provinces for a national inquiry into missing and murdered Indig- Holly Brodhagen is a citizen of Dokis First Nation and holds a Mas- enous women. British Colum- ter’s Degree in Social Work. bia, the province with the highest number of cases of missing and murdered Indigenous women in the country, was not present at the April 17th meeting of provincial Aboriginal Affairs departments and is the only province that did not endorse the communiqué. enous women disproportionately ing from the Failures of the Miss- The Native Women’s Asso- targeted for violence and their cas- ing Women Commission of Inqui- ciation of Canada (NWAC), along es disproportionately ignored by ry", such a public inquiry must be with other national Aboriginal police,” says Kim Stanton, LEAF structured in a way that does not Dilico opens Whitesand offi ce organizations, has been calling Legal Director. “A public inquiry deepen the tragedy for the families Dilico Anishinabek Family Care is pleased to announce the Grand for such an inquiry for years and is needed to investigate the sys- and communities of the women. Opening of the new Armstrong District Offi ce in Whitesand First Na- LEAF and West Coast LEAF have temic bases for these shameful and “If there is one lesson to be tion, Ontario. The previous offi ce for the communities has been in supported that call. disturbing statistics.” taken from the failures of BC’s Armstrong since 1992. According to the research com- A public inquiry must be run Missing Women’s Inquiry, it is “Dilico has been delivering services and programs that strengthen piled by NWAC’s Sisters in Spirit with a carefully balanced and in- that commissions of inquiry that and support the well-being of children, youth, families and communi- research project, over 600 Indig- clusive process as well as effective intend to work with marginalized ties in the Northern Superior First Nations communities for 27 years,” enous women have gone missing leadership. Such an inquiry would communities must consult thor- said Micheal Hardy, Dilico’s Executive Director, “The opening of this or been murdered in Canada in the have the potential to radically oughly at every stage with those new offi ce refl ects another successful partnership in the Robinson Su- last 30 years. Although the federal change the narrative with respect communities, and must create an perior Treaty Area.” government has struck a Special to how Canada treats Indigenous inclusive and respectful process” “We’re honoured to be able to work with Dilico Anishinabek Fam- Committee on Violence Against women by creating public under- says Kasari Govender, West Coast ily Care to ensure good health for Anishinabek residents of all ages in Indigenous Women, a national in- standing and engagement in the LEAF Executive Director and re- our First Nations,”said Chief Allan Gustafson of the Whitesand First quiry that is run independently of underlying reasons for violence port co-author. “A public inquiry Nation. government is necessary. against Indigenous women in this will not get to the bottom of this Dilico Anishinabek Family Care provides a range of responsive “Women across Canada are country. As West Coast LEAF tragedy if it excludes the voices of individual, family and community programs and services for the com- deeply concerned that this travesty has noted in its co-authored report the individuals and communities plete life journey of all Anishinabek people. www.dilico.com continues in our midst, with Indig- "Blueprint for an Inquiry: Learn- most affected.” Page 11 Anishinabek News May 2013 Residential Schools

Ottawa shredded school records By Jorge Barrera APTN National News OTTAWA – Despite holding evidence to the contrary within its archival vaults, the federal government refuses to admit it purposely destroyed Indian resi- dential school documents, fearing it could face additional legal ac- tion, internal government records show. Indian residential school documents were pulped and in- cinerated as a result of three ma- jor rounds of government-wide document destruction directives issued between 1936 and 1973. Yet, the federal government maintains that no residential school documents were ever pur- posely destroyed, but fell victim to fl oods and fi res at the schools, according to an Aboriginal Af- fairs analysis obtained by the Na- tional Residential School Survi- vors’ Society through the Access to Information Act. a report from the National Resi- the schools. A separate “Indepen- deliberately undertaken by the actly what impact the loss of “The government of Canada dential School Survivors’ Society, dent Assessment Process” was government of Canada,” said the the destroyed records will have has taken the position that there formed in 2003 to speak on behalf created to deal with compensation analysis. “Adopting a ‘reverse on the Truth and Reconciliation was no deliberate destruction of of residential school survivors, for abuse suffered at the schools. onus’ policy could have signifi - Commission’s project to recon- student records and residential which took issue with the missing The society recommended cant legal implications for the struct and preserve the historical school documents and that docu- paper trails that left many resi- the government adopt a “reverse department, the Government of record, the ramifi cations have ments were destroyed as a result dential school survivors receiving onus” policy where it would be Canada, and it could set prece- already been felt by residential of institutions that burnt down far less in compensation than they up to the federal government to dence for legal action against school survivors under the CEP. or were fl ooded,” says a depart- initially claimed because they prove that the claimants didn’t provincial governments and their According to Aboriginal Af- mental analysis from 2009. “The couldn’t prove how many years attend the schools during the involvement in their involvement fairs’ own data, as of March 25, admission of the deliberate de- they actually attended the school. claimed years. in the administration of provin- 51,188 residential school survi- struction of student records and Under the multi-billion dol- The department concluded cially run residential and day vors have received compensation documents might spur further le- lar residential school settlement, such a policy was fraught with schools….There is no likelihood below what they claimed because gal action against the government $1.9 billion was set aside for problems for the department. that the settlement agreement will their residence at a residential of Canada.” “Common Experience Payments” “Adopting the ‘reverse onus be reopened in order to adopt this school could not be confi rmed. The analysis was triggered by which were based on the number policy’ would imply that the policy.” The primary reason for this stems of years former students attended destruction of documents was While it remains unclear ex- from a lack of documents. Survivors adamant: ‘It’s our turn to speak’ By Karl Hele S. Hele, Anishinaabe, Concor- MONTREAL – Presentations by dia University, and Marie-Pierre “settler” academics at times met Bousquet, Settler, University of heated responses from residential Montreal. The event took place a school survivors during a mini- week prior to the Truth and Rec- conference on the Legacy of Res- onciliation Commission’s (TRC) idential Schools in Quebec. event in Montreal. When Ronald Niezen of Mc- Participants also heard 11 Gill University presented a paper presentations by academics and in which Oblate Brothers who viewed four documentaries, three operated most of the Catholic of them produced by Indigenous residential schools expressed in- people. Emilie Mowatt and Norman Kistabish from Abitibiwinni First Nation. (Pikogan) are survivors of the dignation that Native students Brian Gettler, a graduate of residential school in nearby Amos, Quebec. were “ungrateful...for what was McGill University and TRC em- (Kitiganik), spoke eloquently her experiences when her last of Canada hasn’t told the people being done for them”, Cree sur- ployee, claimed it was “very diffi - about their experiences before, daughter was 27 years old.” Emi- of Canada what they’ve been vivor Elma Moses demanded he cult to write an impartial history.” during, and after attending resi- lie concluded: “There is a healing signed up for.” explain. This sparked comments about the dential schools. process and there is hope.” The mini-conference will be “Why bring these men’s voic- implausibility of “impartial his- The trauma became evident Solomon Wawatie added:“I rebroadcast on the web for 30 es to us? We know what they have tories” and questions about how when Emilie lost her voice after speak as though I am angry, but I days beginning 1 June 2013 for to say...and they have had their his knowledge would be available watching one of the documenta- am at peace.” free in English and French at vp- opportunity. Now it is our turn to beyond “esoteric articles”. ries. Her inability to speak spoke TRC Commissioner Marie solution.tv/legacies. Disk copies speak.” Norman Kistabish and Emi- volumes. The following day she Wilson closed the conference of the conference in French and Moses was one of fi ve sur- lie Mowatt, both from Pikogan found her voice and asked: “What with the hope that the knowledge- English will also be available by vivors to speak during the April (Abitibiwinni), as well as Solo- right do they have to do this?”, re- sharing would “inspire reconcili- Fall 2013 (contact karl.hele@ 18-19 event, organized by Karl mon Wawatie, from Rapid Lake vealing that she only “woke’ from ation” and that “the government concordia.ca for copies). Page 12 Anishinabek News May 2013 The Missing Chapter Warriors honoured at York By Brian Charles TORONTO – As people gathered along the Toronto shoreline, wait- ing for the fi re to be lit for a sun- rise ceremony, birds offering their daybreak songs, and the morning fog lifting off the surface of Lake Ontario, participants must have been wondering what it was like on that April 27 morning, 200 years earlier. On that day an American force of 2600 aboard 14 ships arrived from Sacket`s Harbor, New York to launch an all-out attack on Fort York. A plaque is unveiled at Fort York to commemorate the contributions of Anishinaabe warriors in the defence of Upper Canada’s capital After easterlies pushed their during the War of 1812 On the podium, from left: Lt.-Gov. David Onley, Councillor Jeff Monague, Beausoleil FN, Chief Bryan LaForme, fl eet off-course to about halfway Mississaugas of New Credit, Chief Donna Big Canoe, Chippewas of Georgina Island, and Chief Sharon Stinson Henry, Chippewas of between the Fort and the mouth Rama. – Photo by Dean St. Germain, Rama First Nation of the Humber River, the Ameri- of the Band to his son, William Spectators at Queen’s Park At the day’s closing ceremo- Treaty of Niagara Covenant cans began disembarking and Yellowhead, shortly after the war. later that morning saw Canadian nies, Chiefs of the Mississaugas Chain Wampum, which was given encountered York’s fi rst defend- This April 27’s sunrise cere- Forces members parachuting and of New Credit, Beausoleil, Chip- to the Western Great Lakes Con- ers – about 80 Anishinaabe war- mony welcomed several hundred rapelling down buildings. His pewas of Georgina Island and federacy in 1764 by the British to riors, who were using the forest people from many different com- Royal Highness Prince Phillip Chippewas of Rama First Nations confi rm the terms of the previous for cover. munities, both First Nations and presented new military colours to assisted the Honourable David year’s Royal Proclamation. In the heavy combat that fol- Toronto`s multicultural commu- the Royal Canadian Regiment, of Onley, the Queen’s representative Chief Donna Big Canoe of the lowed, Chief Yellowhead from nities. A guided interpretive walk which he is the Honourary Colo- as Lieutenant-Governor for On- Chippewas of Georgina Island Rama was shot in the jaw, disfi g- led participants back to Fort York nel-in-Chief. This was followed tario, in unveiling a commemora- reminded spectators that First Na- uring him for life. This did not to share the history of the battle, by a march to Fort York by 1700 tive plaque. The plaque will be on tions were Allies of the Crown, stop him from participating in declared a victory for the invad- members of the Canadian Forces, permanent display at Fort York, not merely subjects. contribution battles on the Niagara frontier as ers, although they suffered nearly which was billed as the largest and honours the contributions of of our ancestors the War of 1812 raged on a year as many casualties when the re- military parade through the streets First Nations people in the War of Complete text and more pho- later. It did, however, cause him to treating British blew up the fort’s of Toronto since the end of World 1812. tos at www.anishinabeknews.ca pass on the hereditary leadership powder magazine. War II. It features an image of the Get the News faster online UOI OFFICES–The Anishinabek News is now providing informa- tion to more readers in a faster, more attractive, and environmentally- friendly way. After 24 years as the offi cial publication of the Union of Ontario Indians, the monthly newspaper has its own website to better serve the 55,000 citizens of the Anishinabek Nation. “We’re a political organization, and have to always be trying to get our messages out as effi ciently as possible,” says UOI Communica- tions director Maurice Switzer, editor of the Anishinabek News. “In just over a decade we’ve gone from charging our own citizens for a printed newspaper to creating a product that is free to anyone in the Google map showing where the 23,000 students were logging into the Aboriginal Worldview course world who wants it. “ from. Inset: Professor Jean-Paul Restoule. About 7,000 copies of the newspaper’s print edition are distributed each month. Switzer said over 1500 visits were recorded on the new website’s fi rst day. “Our website readers are seeing some of our sto- 23,000 register for online course ries weeks ahead of those who wait for the print edition to be mailed into their communities. Every online page is in full colour, and no By Marci Becking discuss issues raised in the forums. Course material trees are killed to produce this version. TORONTO – Nearly 23,000 people from all over the covered Aboriginal Worldview, stereotyping, indig- Not only is online content available faster – it’s often more com- world registered for the free University of Toronto enous knowledge, residential schools and aboriginal plete. “We often have to do some drastic editing to stories to fi t on a online Aboriginal Worldviews course taught by Pro- education both pre and post contact. printed page,” the editor says. “But we carry complete versions on our fessor Jean-Paul Restoule. One student wrote: “Loved the screen-side chat, website.” “This was my fi rst time doing an online course especially because it is such a good model for educa- Switzer said a gradually-reduced number of copies of the news- at all, never mind a Massive Open Online Course or tors. A lot of educators forget to ‘tie the bow on the paper will be printed and distributed monthly while arrangements are MOOC,” says Restoule, citizen of Dokis First Nation package’ so the content of the learning is given as a made with the 39 Anishinabek First Nations to provide print versions who believes that this course changed some people’s sum of the whole and not just a collection of pieces.” to community members who ask for them. perception of Canada. Restoule thinks his course may have motivated “We can provide electronic fi les of each monthly issue to band of- “Especially people outside of Canada,” he says. some participants to take an active role in supporting fi ce staff who can print them off and perhaps distribute with their “But defi nitely a number of people who are proud First Nations issues. community newsletters. Right now, everybody doesn’t have high- Canadians learned about some dark corners of our “A number of people feel better informed and speed Internet access, but, as First Nation connectivity increases, the not-so-distant history, from residential schools and many have declared their solidarity with Aborigi- need to rely on slower and more costly production and distribution their impact, to the treaties, to the inequities in the nal peoples and what they are doing to take action. will decrease. control and delivery of education options to Aborigi- All across the world people in the course have been “The bottom line is, the Anishinabek News will still be available nal people.” moved to meet up with the local Idle No More group free of charge to any Anishinabek Nation citizen who wants one.” The course offered video resources, lectures, or to found one of their own.” reading material, a forum to ask questions and talk with other students, and a popular screen-side chat To read the full version of this story, please visit that Professor Restoule did after each segment to www.anishinabeknews.ca. Page 13 Anishinabek News May 2013 Council agenda aims for physical – and fi scal fi tness By Melissa Cooper develop a hiking trail overlooking Since being elected in Novem- the North Channel as well as build ber 2011, Sheshegwaning First an addition to the current com- Nation council has kept busy di- munity complex to create a gym- versifying a business portfolio that nasium capable of hosting larger includes shares in the new Mani- events.. toulin Island Hotel, a 60MW wind Chief Endenawas says his farm development, and a quarry, community is getting healthier as located adjacent to the community its economy improves. on band-owned property. “We currently have a very “We inherited a small quarry small gym at the school, not very (off-reserve) that was already op- big for, say, basketball. Building erational,” says Chief Joseph En- this gymnasium will get Den- denawas, who has been involved nis, the band administrator into in band administration since 1976. shape!” Economic Development Of- Plans for the outdoor hockey fi cer (EDO) Emilio Tomaselli, a rink exemplify the focus on the German tourist Wolfgang Hanko took this photo during June 21, 2009 ‘Pow-Wow der Sheshegwaning’. two-term band councillor, says physical as well as the fi scal. training has been provided to em- A rooftop will be constructed ployees the new venture. over the rink, which will be cov- “Right now we are waiting for ered with a 10kW solar energy the half-loading restriction to be project, pending approval by the lifted in May. This year is going to Ontario Power Authority as part be the fi rst operating year so we’re of renewable energy generation. Sheshegwaning all geared up now to get started in “The rink itself is an asset the quarry business.” that we will be paying into,” says Odawa Stone Limited Part- Emilio Tomaselli, “so it would be nership will start operations with good to have something on there First Nation a supervisor and two trainees on that will help to pay off that in- site, extracting dimension lime- vestment such as solar energy.” stone blocks and slabs, as well as Sheshegwaning is already cladding, which is used for both participating in other energy- exterior and interior facing walls. related projects on the island in- They hope to come across some cluding partnership in the 60MW long-term strategy to provide op- “Our band council is about landscape rock in the process. McLean’s Mountain Wind Proj- portunities for community youth. being transparent and being ac- “We have trainers come in ect with Mnidoo Mnising Power, “The main goal is to build countable,” says the chief. “We’re from overseas to train on how to a company formed by the United economic opportunities for citi- where we should be with our au- operate the equipment,” Tomaselli Chiefs and Councils of Mnidoo zens, the young people”, he says. dits.” said. “This project means capacity Mnising First Nations and North- “I realize that we cannot please According to the Internal development, employment, skills land Power. But they are limited everyone, but we hope to unite the Auditor’s Report for the period training as they’re going to be to smaller projects locally. community (on these decisions).” ending March 2012 – which is operating heavy equipment--and “We only have single-phased Before committing to such publicly posted online at Aborigi- wealth generation for the First Na- power coming into our reserve so major projects such as the Lit- nal Affairs and Northern Devel- tion as a result.” we are very limited on renewable tle Current hotel investment, opment Canada’s website – the Sheshegwaning received fund- energy generation here,” the EDO Sheshegwaning council hosted Sheshegwaning First Nation is in Nishin Eco Lodge – a cedar log ing for the project’s training com- says. community meetings to get input accordance with their reporting as frame cabin rented out as a spa- ponent from the Ministry of Col- Chief Endenawas sees eco- and feedback on the business op- stated by KPMG LLP Chartered quality facility for 8-12 guests. leges and Universities. Additional nomic development as an essential portunity. Accountants. (705) 283-3560 support came from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund and Wau- betek Business Development Cor- poration. Located at the western tip of Manitoulin Island, Sheshegwan- ing has a total land base of 2,025 hectares. About 120 of 390 citi- zens live on reserve. Community facilities include a health centre, public library, a school (St. Joseph’s Anishinabek School), convenience store and a seasonal cabin rental business. The First Nation also operates Nishin Lodge, a large cedar log cabin which can accommodate up to 12 guests in spa surroundings. The lodge became a band-owned business in 2004, and employs one person seasonally as well as two others on a casual basis. Current members of band council are Gregory Sampson, Gene Cada, Albert Cada, Emilio Tomaselli and Chief Joe Endana- was. They have focused on health and wellness initiatives, as well as economic development. “Sheshegwaning also started a sports program when the new council got elected into offi ce called ‘Right to Play’,” says exec- utive director, Dennis Blackburn, who has been on the job for about four years. He mentions plans to Sheshegwaning First Nation Council Chambers. Inset: Councillor Emilio Tomaselli. – Photo by Jessica Sampson Page 14 Anishinabek News May 2013

Mining companies making billions By Marlene Bilous tions to work with mining compa- Anishinabek Nation work- nies: Partnerships; Impact Benefi t shops are creating more aware- Agreements; Joint ventures; Eq- ness among community members uity positions; and becoming Pro- about how the mining industry is ponents. profi ting from natural resources Peter Recollet of Wahnapi- located on traditional territories. tae First Nation and Michael Fox The Union of Ontario Indians of High Impact Consultants ad- held two mining workshops in late dressed the participants on the March in the Northern Superior various options and how they and the Lake Huron regions and worked. They discussed their a total of 40 participants attended. experiences in how fi rst Nations “We hold all the resources on could work effectively with min- our treaty and traditional lands,’ ing operations. said Deputy Grand Chief Hare, Feedback indicated partici- guest speaker at the Northern Su- pants felt most strongly about the perior Workshop. “Mining com- importance of four First Nations panies having been taking billions issues as Ontario implements new Peter Recollet – Director of Sustainable Development for the Wahnapitae First Nation. from our lands in resources with- Mining Act regulations: recogni- out sharing the benefi ts. Now, we tion of Anishinabek and Treaty inated discussions, emphasizing panies should visit high schools Mines that they have not been say ‘Talk to the First Nations or go rights; a requirement for resource that “water brings life to the fam- and do presentations on the wide consulted on the new mining home.’ Our kids are smart and we revenue- sharing; the need for en- ily and community. Without wa- range of careers available in the regulations as required by rulings want to work towards having our vironmental stewardship in min- ter, there is no life.” Participants mining and exploration industries of the Supreme Court of Canada. kids becoming supervisors and not ing; and the urgent need for more recommended that the mining in- and work to introduce apprentice- Ontario had a duty to consult with just handling shovels. We want to capacity at the First Nation level dustry quit “leaving a mess” when ship at the high school level. and accommodate First Nations be involved from the get-go.” to handle the heavy burden of pa- they fi nish operations. It was recommended that all where their Aboriginal and Trea- The workshops addressed the perwork. Participants also suggested First Nations inform the Minis- ty rights under Section 35 of the fi ve major options for First Na- Environmental concerns dom- that government and mining com- ter of Northern Development and Constitution were impacted.

Tidying up Mother Earth A beautiful sunny day, Earth Day April 22nd, was an ideal time to spend outdoors. Five elders, all over 60, from the Ontario Native Women’s Association group “Anishinaabekwe of the North Shore”, in Garden River FN honoured Mother Earth by taking part in the “Earth Day Clean-Up Walk” The group cleaned up litter for one kilometre along Highway 17 East from the Root River Bridge to the Granny stops grader Sault Ste. Marie City limits. They watched Eagles soaring over the Oklahoma grandmother Nancy Zorn, 79, was taken into police custody after locking herself to a piece of fi elds and a demonstration of Ministry of Natural Resources planes heavy machinery, effectively halting construction on TransCanada’s Keystone XL 4,000-mile tar sands loading tanks with water from the St. Marys River for fi re-fi ghting. pipeline from Alberta to the Texas Gulf coast. Protests by First Nations and others in Canada and the From left, Alice Corbiere, Barbara Nolan and Barbara Burns. U.S. have escalated following several spills, including one in Mayfl ower, Arkansas where an estimated – By Margaret Hele 80,000 gallons of tar sands spilled into a residential neighborhood and local waterways. North Channel home to variety of fi sh species By Maureen Peltier from 18 to 23 degrees Celsius. Captured spe- to 7 years old. The captured Lake Whitefi sh SHESHEGWANING FN – First Nation com- cies included: Lake Trout, Lake Whitefi sh, ranged in length from 189 to 590 mm (7 to 23 munity members fi sh for trout, salmon and Lake Herring, Round Whitefi sh, Alewife, inches); 46 to 2100 g (1 to 4.5 lbs) in weight; whitefi sh in the North Channel of Lake Hu- Rainbow Smelt, Northern Pike, Longnose and were 1 to 10 years old. ron, but say their catch in recent years has de- Sucker, White Sucker, Lake Chub, Brown One unique result was the capture of a creased signifi cantly. Bullhead, Burbot (Ling), Rock Bass, Small- juvenile Lake Sturgeon. Since there are no To address this concern, Sheshegwaning mouth Bass, Yellow Perch and Round Goby. documented spawning tributaries for Stur- and the Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Re- No salmon species were caught during the geon in that area it proves that Sturgeon are source Centre conducted a Fish Community study. capable of migrating great distances. Study in July, 2012 to evaluate the current Looking specifi cally at the species of status of the fi sh population within the area. concern, captured Lake Trout ranged in Maureen Peltier is a community liaison A total of 30 nets were set during a one- length from 199 to 558 mm (8-22 inches); 57 specialist with the Anishinabek/Ontario week period when water temperatures ranged to2000 g (1 to4 lbs) in weight; and were 2 Fisheries Resource Centre in North Bay. Released juvenile Lake Sturgeon. STAFF mission

Jason Laronde Rhonda Gagnon Sarah Louis Arnya Assance Marlene Bilous The mission of the Lands and Director Water Resources Policy Analyst Water Resources Assistant AORMC Coordinator L&R Policy Analyst Resources department is to foster [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] a better quality of life by ensuring Ext. 2263 Ext. 2318 Ext. 2245 Ext. 2340 Ext. 2183 access to natural resources in support of the goals, principles and Union of Ontario Indians - Head Offi ce, P.O. Box 711, North Bay, ON, P1B 8J8, Ph: 705-497-9127 Toll: 1-877-702-5200 Web: www.anishinabek.ca values of the Anishinabek Nation. Page 15 Anishinabek News May 2013

Indians’ consent required for mine From Amnesty International NEW DELHI – A ruling by In- dia’s Supreme Court that the Indigenous (Adivasi) communi- ties will have the fi nal decision on plans for a bauxite mine by a subsidiary of UK-based Vedanta Resources in the Niyamgiri hills of Orissa is a landmark victory in recognizing indigenous rights in India, says Amnesty International. A 670-hectare bauxite mine was due to have been developed on the Dongria Kondh Indigenous community’s traditional lands and habitats which they consider sa- cred. The Dongria Kondh community has been fi ghting for the survival of their way of life for a decade. "The Dongria Kondh com- now establish a clear and trans- leader in Niyamgiri, told Amnesty all adult voters) of two villages mental laws, as well as the rights munity, whose identity is fully parent process to ascertain the International: “After a decade of located near the proposed mine of the Dongria Kondh Indigenous dependent on these hills, has been free, prior and informed consent protesting against the mine plans, would need to decide if the mine and other communities in the hills. fi ghting for the survival of their (FPIC) of Indigenous communi- we now have an offi cial channel to plans, in any way, affected their The April 18th court ruling came way of life for a decade,” said G. ties in Niyamgiri and all other voice our concerns that the mine religious and cultural rights, in- on a challenge mounted by OMC Ananthapadmanabhan, Chief Ex- contexts where their traditional plans will disrupt our sacred lands cluding their right to worship, and to that decision. ecutive of Amnesty International lands and habitats may be affect- and also seriously impact our lives on all individual and community The Court’s ruling also up- India. “The mine would have re- ed by state or corporate projects. and livelihoods.” claims, including fresh ones, to holds the provisions of India’s sulted in violation of their rights The participation of women and Kumiti Majhi, a leader of the the areas proposed to be mined. Forest Rights Act, 2006, which as Indigenous peoples, as well as other marginal members in these Majhi Kondh Indigenous commu- The councils should share their state that authorities must settle their rights to water, food, health, communities should be ensured in nity in the foothills of Niyamgiri, decision with India’s Ministry of community claims over their tra- work amongst others. This ruling such decision-making. Also, the said: “We urge the authorities to Environment and Forests within ditional forest lands and habitats, is hugely important for the Don- authorities should ensure that all conduct this process in a free and three months. and ensure they have the consent gria Kondh. information about the potential genuine way, without intimidation India’s Ministry of Environ- of the communities, before at- “This ruling is a clear vindica- negative impact of such plans is by the companies concerned or the ment and Forests, in August 2010, tempting to use their land for min- tion of the protests by local com- available to them in a language paramilitary forces stationed in had rejected the plans put forward ing and other industrial purposes. munities, the fi ndings of the ex- accessible to them prior to deci- Niyamgiri, and in the presence of by Sterlite India, a subsidiary of The principle of free, prior and tensive research carried out since sion-making. The communities’ international human rights organi- Vedanta Resources, and the state- informed consent (FPIC) is recog- 2009 by Amnesty International decisions must be respected, and zations – apart from the presence owned Orissa Mining Corporation nized by the United Nations Dec- and the sustained campaign car- projects must not be allowed with- of a judicial offi cer as stipulated (OMC), to mine bauxite at the top laration on Rights of Indigenous ried out by many organizations out agreement by the communities by the Supreme Court ruling.” of Niyamgiri hills in Orissa, after People, 2007, as central to the which exposed how the communi- in their favour.” The Court ruled that the gram fi nding that the plans would exten- protection and realisation of the ties’ views had long been ignored. Lado Sikaka, a Dongria Kondh sabhas (assemblies consisting of sively violate forest and environ- rights of Indigenous communities. “Authorities in India must Countries urge Canada to end violence against Native women OTTAWA – The Assembly of First respectfully towards recognition of cation, health, drinking water and women and establish effective da- inadequate. Nations (AFN) is looking forward title and implementation of Treaty sanitation, food insecurity, control tabases. Australia recommended “We hope to work closely with to visits this year to Canada by and these visits can play an impor- over lands and resources, and ra- that the Aboriginality of victims the United Nations representatives the UN Special Rapporteur on the tant role in affi rming that action on cial discrimination. of gender-based violence be accu- to show not only the harsh realities Rights of Indigenous Peoples, the these measures is needed now.” In a news release endorsed by rately recorded. but also the solutions driven by UN Committee on the Elimination On April 26th, Canada’s hu- 13 Canadian-based organizations Inequalities in access to drink- and for our people as the essential of Discrimination against Women, man rights record was examined – including the Chiefs of Ontario ing water and sanitation systems path forward,” the National Chief and the Inter-American Commis- in a peer review process under and the Native Women’s Associa- were also noted. Norway, for ex- said. “The UN Declaration com- sion on Human Rights. the United Nations Human Rights tion of Canada – it was noted that ample, recommended that Canada pels us to work in partnership and “The AFN and First Nation Council. more than 20 states raised specifi c take measures to ensure that all respect to give life to our inherent leaders have been advocating for During the process, called the concerns about high levels of vio- Canadians have full and equal ac- Indigenous rights and Treaties. Dr. James Anaya, Special Rap- Universal Periodic Review, more lence against Indigenous women cess to clean water and sanitation. Our people deserve real action and porteur on the Rights of Indig- than 80 states offered comments in Canada. New Zealand, Norway, Canada was previously exam- results by the way of fundamental enous Peoples to visit Canada,” and recommendations on Canada’s Switzerland and others urged Can- ined under the Universal Periodic reform of key policies and invest- said AFN National Chief Shawn human rights record. The vast ma- ada to adopt a comprehensive and Review in 2008. Many of the same ments that make sense. a-in-chut Atleo. “First Nations in jority of state comments related to coordinated national action plan to concerns were raised at that time. First Nations are diverse and Canada have suffered from his- persistent human rights violations end such violence. Although Canada acknowledged face many challenges but by fo- toric injustices, dispossession and experienced by Indigenous peoples Ireland called on Canada to also “the underlying principles” of state cusing on critical issues we can denial of our lands, territories and in Canada. These include violation conduct an independent national concerns, actions to date on their set-out a long-term strategic plan resources. We must move forward of land rights, inequalities in edu- inquiry into missing Indigenous specifi c recommendations remain for progress and prosperity.” STAFF mission

The Union of Ontario Indians Allan Dokis Mike Sawyer Theresa Stevens Alicia McLeod Kevin Restoule Meriza George Intergovernmental Affairs department is Director Treaty Research Clerk Administrative Assistant Treaty Research Coordinator Policy Analyst Relations Coordinator committed to the protection of aboriginal [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] and treaty rights, ensuring access to Ext. 2251 Ext. 2237 Ext. 2327 Ext.2304 Ext. 2264 Ext.2320 land and resources, and supporting the political goals, values and aspirations of Union of Ontario Indians - Head Offi ce, P.O. Box 711, North Bay, ON, P1B 8J8, Ph: 705-497-9127 Toll: 1-877-702-5200 Web: www.anishinabek.ca the Anishinabek Nation. Page 16 Anishinabek News May 2013

Anishinabek NaƟ on Eshkeniijig (Youth) Engagement 2013 August 20-22, 2013 Beaucage Park

Participants in Chiefs Committee on Governance discussions; Back row, left: Curve Lake Councillor Nipissing First NaƟ on Keith Knott, Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve Giimaa Duke Peltier, Alderville Chief James R. Marsden (Vice Chair), Grand Council Chief Patrick Madahbee, Deputy Grand Council Chief Glen Hare, Elder Gordon Waindubence, Munsee Delaware Nation Chief Patrick Waddilove. Front row, left: Elder Mike Esquega Sr., Chiefs Committee on Governance Coordinator Esther Gilbank, Pic Mobert First Nation Johanna Desmoulin. Missing: Aamjiwnaang Chief Chris Plain and Serpent River Chief Isadore Day (Chair). Anishinaabe Anokiiwin Aanokiitoojig/ Chiefs Committee on Governance update By Esther Gilbank directed that a strategy be developed to support the THUNDER BAY – The Chiefs Committee on Gov- fi scal negotiations to gain additional funding for the ernance has welcomed two new members – Lake Anishinabek Education System (AES). Huron representative Ogimaa Duke Peltier, Wik- Martin Bayer, Chief Negotiator on Governance, wemikong Unceded Indian Reserve, and Northern said the Anishinabek are negotiating Self-Govern- Superior representative Chief Johanna Desmoulin, ment agreements with Canada that will recognize Pic Mobert First Nation. our power to enact laws in the area of governance The return of former Curve Lake Chief, Coun- and education. cillor Keith Knott, Southeast region, has been very Discussions addressed the Commissioner on well-received. Governance position. The committee expressed the The committee expressed how grateful they are need to have a qualifi ed person to fi ll the position that these leaders have decided to bring their experi- by preparing the terms of reference and budget for ence in leadership to the table. review which will be presented to Grand Council for For more informaƟ on on the Youth NaƟ on Analysis of Canada’s Education Fiscal Offer and endorsement. Building Engagement gathering workshop, Fiscal Transfer Agreement Negotiation proposal was The next meeting of the Chiefs Committee on discussed at the March meeting, and the committee Governance will be May 22 & 23rd in Aamjiwnaang contact [email protected] directed the Education Fiscal Negotiator to develop First Nation. For more information please contact a revised Anishinabek fi scal proposal to Canada. At Esther Gilbank, Chiefs Committee on Governance their January meeting the Chiefs Committee had Coordinator at [email protected]. Funding cap shadows education negotiation progress By ROJ Staff Nations Education Panel, Ontar- developed and supported by An- liminary consultations in order to each of the fi ve KEB regions, In 1996 Canada put a 2% cap io’s Drummond Report, and the ishinabek Leaders, First Nation fi ne-tune and affi rm its purpose. which also requires Grand Council on increases for funding First Na- Chiefs of Ontario’s “First Nations educators, and the Main Table The strategic plan was then approval. tions education. Jurisdiction over First Nations Ed- responsible for negotiating the presented to the chiefs-in-assem- Under direction and approval The 2% cap has entrenched ucation”, all in quick succession. self-government agreement with bly at the 2012 Anishinabek Na- by the Anishinabek Leadership discriminatory funding shortages Meanwhile, the Anishinabek Canada. tion Grand Council in Sheguian- Council, a steering committee of for First Nation schools, which Nation was still involved in a The strategic plan was pre- dah for approval. First Nation Chiefs and Educa- receive $4,000-$5,000 less per lengthy negotiation process with sented as an expression of opti- In the interest of due diligence, tors was put in place to oversee the student than Ontario would if that Canada for the recognition of edu- mism, passion and commitment to chiefs recommended that the stra- consultation sessions. same student enrolls in a provin- cation jurisdiction, the establish- achieving the goals set out in the tegic plan be further discussed and A total of 11committee mem- cial school. ment of a parallel Anishinabek AES as designed by educators, that the recommendations be pre- bers from the fi ve proposed Re- In the past year there has been Education System (AES), and fair parents, leaders, Elders, and youth sented at the next Grand Council gional Education Councils were no shortage of reports and analysis and adequate funding. over the last 14 years. sitting in June 2013. selected. From January to March, about the dire state of First Nations Meanwhile, a strategic plan The strategic plan was fi rst The consultations also sought the REC consultations and a con- education in Canada. There was for the establishment of the An- presented to various key First Na- input on confi rming the selection ference were held and the report is the Report of the AFN-led First ishinabek Education System was tion stake-holders as part of pre- process for board members from forthcoming.

ROJ STAFF Union of Ontario Indians - Head Offi ce, P.O. Box 711, North Bay, ON, P1B 8J8, Ph: 705-497-9127 Toll: 1-877-702-5200 Web: www.anishinabek.ca/ROJ/

Mike Restoule Barb Naveau Andrew Arnott Dave Shawana Faye Sabourin Lisa Restoule Director Administrative Coordinator Fiscal Relations Analyst Working Groups Coordinator Constitution Development Coordinator Government Negotiations [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Admin Assistant Ext. 2322 Ext. 2255 Ext.2257 Ext.2316 [email protected] Ext. 2341 Kelly Crawford Monica Lister Rachel McKee Esther Gilbank Jon Cada Mary Laronde Community Relations Offi cer Fiscal Policy Analyst Education Negotiations Chiefs Committee on Governance Coordinator Communications and Community Communications and [email protected] [email protected] Admin Assistant [email protected] Relations Assistant Policy Analyst Ext. 2226 Ext. 2270 [email protected] Ext.2275 [email protected] [email protected] Ext.2228 Ext.2320 Ext.2266 Page 17 Anishinabek News May 2013

Restoration of Jurisdiction Negotiating to close graduation gap By ROJ Staff The education negotiations are in high gear now, moving forward to fi nalize the draft arrangements with Canada this fi scal year. Nego- tiators are fi nalizing the text of the draft Anishinabek Nation Final Agreement on Education and the fi scal negotiations. Canada presented its fi scal offer on education on December 20, 2012, over six years after the Anishinabek Nation presented its fi rst fi scal offer to Canada. Canada’s offer is being analyzed and a counter- offer is being drafted. The Anishinabek Nation education negotiations team is continu- ing to meet with Ontario under the Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2009, to advance the practical arrangements required for the Anishinabek Education System and the Ontario publicly-funded edu- cation system to coordinate the delivery of quality education programs and services to Anishinabek students. Dimitri Ashawasegai, left, listens with other Henvey Inlet citizens at the March 20 Community In the last couple of months, the Anishinabek team has met with Engagement Session. representatives from the province’s Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs and the Ministry of Education to discuss the possibility of negotiating an education agreement with the intention of jointly addressing practical Communities talk constitution matters to close the large and persistent gap in First Nation student achievement. Fewer than half of First Nation youth graduate from By Jon Cada Agreement currently under negotiation with Canada high school, compared to close to 80 per cent of other Canadian chil- Community Engagement Strategy (CES) sessions would recognize the authority of First Nations to de- dren, and some 70 per cent do not have a post secondary degree or continued to generate self-government dialogue in termine its citizens according to its own laws The diploma. 2012/2013. current draft Anishinabek Nation draft citizenship The proposed education agreement with Ontario will not replace During this past year, the CES process delivered law, the E-dbendaagzijig Naaknigewin, provides a the existing tuition agreements or education agreements between First seven sessions focusing on the development of First guide for the development of First Nation citizenship Nations and their local school boards. Nation constitutions, laws, and the negotiation of the laws. For more info, click on the link below. Some of the topics under discussion with Ontario include access governance and education agreements with Canada Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishinaabek (Rocky Bay to professional development opportunities; establishment of clear for the recognition of First Nation jurisdiction in these First Nation) was very interested in exploring how the and consistent standards; requirements and terms for reciprocal or two sectors. development of a First Nation constitution could be reverse tuition agreements under which off-reserve students may at- The fi rst session was held in Curve Lake First Na- of assistance when dealing with lands and improving tend school on-reserve; better integration of First Nations history and tion, where over 30 active participants discussed how community governance generally. Education contin- culture into the provincial curriculum and resources for teaching the a First Nation constitution would be benefi cial to their ues to be a high priority. new curriculum; establishment of data collection, data management community. The fi scal arrangements being negotiated Ojibways of the Pic River First Nation citizens and data sharing agreements; and a commitment by the province to with Canada were of special interest. wanted to know more about how the traditional struc- investing tuition payments into the First Nation education initiative. Chippewas of the Thames First Nation citizens ture of government could work and create a deeper Ontario does not currently have a mandate to enter into negotia- were paying close attention to the development of understanding of how living life according to tradi- tions with the Anishinabek Nation on education. Anishinabek nego- First Nation constitutions while working on their own tional customs can be a recipe for a better life today tiators are awaiting confi rmation on whether these negotiations will lands claims process. They were particularly inter- for Anishinaabe people. Pic River has long been fo- proceed. These are separate from the ongoing negotiations with Can- ested in how a First Nation community can develop cused on education and improving educational expe- ada on education jurisdiction and fi scal relations. The negotiations an effective communications system with limited re- riences and achievements for its students. with Canada are not dependent on securing a formal agreement with sources and funding. A CES session was held at the Union of Ontario Ontario. Henvey Inlet First Nation members focussed on Indians head offi ce to discuss the self-government developing their own citizenship law as the commu- initiatives and to update staff on the progress of the nity is currently reviewing its membership code. The negotiations and the developmental work being done Anishinaabe Chi-Naaknigewin and the value of First in First Nations to prepare for self-government. Ideas Nations constitutions were also discussed in depth. were shared for best practices in assisting communi- Sheguiandah First Nation was also interested in ties in meeting their goals. learning about how a First Nations citizenship law To learn more about the Governance and Educa- might work and how such a law would be recog- tion agreements, constitutions and other self-govern- nized and upheld. Restoration of Jurisdiction Direc- ment topics, please visit http://www.anishinabek.ca/ tor, Mike Restoule, explained how the Governance roj/index.asp: anishinabeknews.ca

Anishinabek Nation Deputy Grand Council Chief, Glen Hare speaks to Pic River citizens at the March 27 Community Engagement Session. Page 18 Anishinabek News May 2013

WWWANISHINABEKCA .ATIVE3TUDIES #ONNECTINGTOA3TRONG&UTURE www.anishinabek.caBE A PART OF THIS EFFECTIVE   
 
  
 

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Lakehead Supports Aboriginal Learners Lakehead University is committed to helping Aboriginal peoples further their educational aspirations. Aboriginal programs at Lakehead offer academic, research, and cultural support services tailored to Aboriginal needs. Specialization & Access Programs Department of Indigenous Learning Native Nurses Entry Program Native Access Program Bi Aboriginal Education Honours Bachelor of Education (Aboriginal) P/J Native Teacher Education Program Native Language Instructors’ Program Administrative & Support Services 2I¿FHRI$ERULJLQDO,QLWLDWLYHV Aboriginal Cultural & Support Services Lakehead University Native Students Association Nanabijou Aboriginal Graduate Enhancement Lakehead University Aboriginal Alumni Chapter Bachelor of Arts Elders Program 3 & 4 Year Offi ce of Community Economic and Social Development (CESD) Aboriginal Initiatives s4HEONLYUNDERGRADUATEDEGREEOFITS aboriginalinitiatives.lakeheadu.ca KINDIN#ANADA s0REPARESGRADUATESFORINNOVATIVE ANDEFFECTIVEWORKINSMALLERURBAN RURAL NORTHERN &IRST.ATIONAND INDIGENOUSCOMMUNITIES s YEAR#ERTIlCATEAVAILABLE 1-807-766-7219 or toll free 1-888-558-3388 algomau.ca [email protected] Page 19 Anishinabek News May 2013

Kinoomaagewin

Defi cits excuse to delay roads, but not education By Christine Smith McFarlane engagement of expression, and TORONTO – Politicians can put it’s this generation that’s going to off building roads because they’re achieve this transformative change trying to reduce budget defi cits, we so desperately need for our says Paul Martin, but that ap- children and families.” proach doesn’t work when you’re According to the 2006 Cana- trying to ensure that Native kids da census, Atelo said, there were know how to read by Grade 3. more than one million Aboriginal The former Prime Minister people in Canada. When compared and AFN National Chief Shawn to non-Aboriginal Canadians, Ab- A-in-chut Atleo exchanged views original Canadians have a lower on First Nations education priori- education level as well as a lower ties at an April 18 forum hosted by standard of living. Aboriginal stu- the Ontario Institute for Studies in dents have a higher high-school Education (OISE) at Hart House dropout rate – 60 per cent on re- Theatre on the University of To- serve, and 43% in urban centres -- ronto campus. compared to 9.5% of non-Aborig- “The issue we have to face is inal Canadians. They also have that primary and secondary educa- low university graduation rates, tion in this country is a right -- a higher incarceration rates and an universal free good; how can the alarmingly high rate of teen sui- government say they want to build cide – double that of other youth a strong economy when they un- in Canada. derfund the youngest and fastest- “In some respects, we have growing segment of our popula- come so far, yet we still have a tion?” Martin asked. “The single long ways to go,” said the Nation- most immoral thing we can do is to al Chief. “I feel encouraged by this continue underfunding education. event to be here, where there are “I can defer the building of a Former prime minister Paul Martin makes a point about First Nations education while National Chief hundreds sitting in the audience road, or a highway, because you Shawn Atleo and moderator Julia O'Sullivan look on. listening and discussing the big- can always build it the next year. gest social justice issue in Canada But when your concentration on a ily established the Martin Aborigi- entrepreneurship, to encourage Education in Canada” -- which -- -the plight of First Nations peo- defi cit deprives a six-year-old go- nal Initiative , whose activities are them to complete their high school was presented before a sold-out ple and education. ing into Grade 1 and learning to focused on contributing to greater education and to go onto post-sec- crowd of some 450. Professor Julia O’Sullivan, read by Grade 3, that six-year-old First Nation economic self-reli- ondary studies. “We have the fastest-growing Dean of the Ontario Institute for will never catch up.” ance. An Aboriginal Youth Entre- National Chief Atleo provided segment of the Canadian popu- Studies in Education, moderated After he retired from political preneurship Program teaches Ab- statistical context for the R.W.B. lation under the age of 25. (We the panel, noting in her open- life in 2006, Martin and his fam- original youth about business and Jackson Lecture– First Nations also have) the highest incarcera- ing comments that “First Nations tion rates, and higher dropout rates education, indeed Aboriginal edu- than graduation rates in some parts cation-education for Metis, Inuit, of Canada. We currently need 60 and First Nations peoples is the schools in First Nations communi- most important and pressing edu- ties right now. cational priority in Canada for Ab- “Yet we have young people original and non-Aboriginal Cana- in Quebec walking thousands of dians. OISE, as Canada’s largest miles and youth in Northern On- and most infl uential faculty of tario marching to raise awareness education, has a special responsi- of the plight of First Nations peo- bility to lead in this area. We have, ples. This shows an unprecedented we are and we will.”

NATIVE COUNSELLOR TRAINING PROGRAM ABOUT the CAMPAIGN The Ontario Native Education Counselling Association is As a result of the recent drowning’s in the Anishinabek Nation territory over the past few now accepting applications for the 2013 Native Counsellor years, the Anishinabek leadership identified that there is need for an education and Training Program – Accredited by the Ministry of awareness campaign – “Respect the Water”. Education. The Seven Grandfather Teachings of the Anishinabek people, who believe that living a good life can only be accomplished through these fundamental values of this campaign. You can earn a certificate over the course of three summer As Anishinabek we must Respect the Water (Nbe) and the elements (weather). Our sessions held each July. people have been on the water for thousands of years – we need to stay focused on how our people have traditionally taken care of self, and community. Along with Respect, PROGRAM LENGTH: 5 week sessions over 3 years safety is a key message, we are deeply concerned for the safety of all of our Citizens across the Anishinabek Nation while they are exercising their rights to fish, and provide LOCATION: Laurentian University, Sudbury, Ontario food for their families, community and ceremony. DATES: July 8, 2013 to August 9, 2013 DEADLINE PHASE 1 PHASE 2 PHASE 3 FOR APPLICATIONS: June 17, 2013 Keep watch for riveting Safety Awareness Workshop Follow-up – Evaluation – topics to be covered. for Fisherman – promo items: produce results of 2013 manual inflatable lifejackets campaign For more information please contact the ONECA office at: Ontario Native Education Counselling Association. 37- A Reserve Road, P. O. Box 220, Naughton, Ontario P0M 2M0 (705) 692-2999 or Fax (705) 692-9988 Email: [email protected] website www.oneca.com Page 20 Anishinabek News May 2013

The youth of Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation, Ontario and Productions Cazabon request your support to roll up our sleeves together on closing the gaps of living conditions and creating greater awareness and understanding between Canadians and First Nations. For the fi rst time... Youth invite 25 Canadians to live in their remote reserve during National Aboriginal Week

Youth invite Canadians to K.I. June 17-21st. The youth of K.I. have ex- tended an invitation to 25 Canadians to join them and live beside them for one week on their remote reserve – to live in their homes, share in their daily life, see their deep connection to the land, their community and their way of life. Youth leader Justin Beardy says, “We want them to see our living conditions and the hope we still have.”

Youth have raised over $6,000 for this event. As the leaders of this event, the youth are raising $15,000 by selling DVD kits of the fi lm made in their community called “3rd World Canada” as well as donations from organizations and individuals. The Offi ce of the Provincial Advocate for Children & Youth, The Rotary Club of Toronto, Serpent River First Nation and Six Nations have all participated to quick-start this project. Join them!

Youth Walkers (Journey of Nishiyuu’) accept K.I. invitation. In sup- port of youth leading through positve and peaceful actions, the Youth Walkers and their Chief have accepted to join the Youth in K. I. during this week and be honoured guests and allies in helping to make the invisible, visible. They will join us in June throughout the week Kitchenuhmaykoosib in celebration of this youth-led event. They will share on the lessons from their journey and Inninuwug their 1,600 Km walk to Ottawa.

Follow our journey on the 3rd World Canada Facebook page • Donate to the Campaign • Be one of 25 Guests • Volunteer

For information contact: [email protected]

Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug Page 21 Anishinabek News May 2013

Indigenous peoples struggling against climate change LAWRENCE, Kan.– Climate deal with it." change's effects are starting to be The book examines climate felt around the world, and indig- change through an indigenous per- enous populations are in many cases spective in North and South Amer- among the fi rst to have their ways of ica, the Pacifi c Islands, Australia life disrupted. Yet these populations and New Zealand, Asia and Africa. are often powerless, both politically The contributors, all either practis- and economically, to convince those ing lawyers or law professors, both with the ability to do some- explain the problems faced thing about it to do so. by indigenous populations A University of Kansas and break down attempts to The Inuit of the Arctic can no longer hunt safely as the ice is breaking up around them. law professor has co-edited a devise legal, workable solu- book examining how climate tions. change has affected indig- For example, Inuit liv- enous people worldwide and ing near the Arctic in the Reviews how they can legally address United States, Canada, Rus- the issues in the future. sia and Greenland are in a a book worth reading. torts, “If you’d told me that 40 Elizabeth Kronk, associate pro- region of the world that is warming BOOK “The Inconvenient Indian” – years ago you would have saved fessor of law and director of the four times faster than other regions. Thomas King; Doubleday Cana- you and I a lot of trouble.” university’s Tribal Law & Govern- Yet, litigation brought by residents da; ISBN 617-0-385-66421-9; 288 Director Renae Morriseau ment Centre, has co-edited "Climate of the Native Village of Kivalina pages; Hardcover: $34.95, Paper- helps create a tension that builds Change and Indigenous Peoples: against companies that contribute back:$22.00 –Ben Powless until the audience starts to won- der if Johnnie just might have The Search for Legal Remedies" large amounts of greenhouse gasses the wrong man, so earnestly with Randall S. Abate, associate to the environment has been unsuc- PLAY does the assistant bishop speak professor of law at Florida A&M cessful. of his innocence. But this play University. The editors gathered As a problem of global scale, cli- is about the ghosts, which haunt work from a collection of legal and mate change is incredibly complex the clergyman just as much as environmental experts from around and diffi cult to deal with via law and Johnnie. –Laura Robinson the world, many of whom hail from policy. There are local, municipal, indigenous populations. Their en- national and international laws that tries examine how climate change often confl ict. BOOK has affected indigenous peoples on "The indigenous people of the numerous continents and how future Arctic are literally losing their legal action may help their cause. homeland," Kronk said. "But cli- History "As far as I know it's the only mate change law is complicated, book of its kind," Kronk said. when you add all those levels of law, as humour Ghosts haunt "There are lots on climate change, it's even more so." Who knew our history could lead characters but none that I know of that exam- The book's 20-plus contributors be so funny? Apparently, Thom- ine the effects of it on indigenous examine both options of mitigation as King did, and we may forever VANCOUVER – Drew Hayden people. A lot of times when you hear law – which intends to halt and re- be indebted to him for “The In- Taylor has produced a number about climate change people say verse climate change affects -- and convenient Indian: A Curious of plays with Firehall Theatre in 'when or if this happens.' Well, it's adaptation law, which acknowl- Account of Native People in Vancouver’s downtown eastside already happening, and indigenous edges climate change and ways to North America”. but God and the Indian is by far Kids’ book people especially are being forced to legally adapt to it. First off, let's make it clear the most brilliant. that this isn't a history book. Tantoo Cardinal plays the lead for everyone King is generous enough to character, Johnnie Indian, a wom- Roy Vickers has done it admit as much. What it is -- a an who lives with ghosts 40 years again. With startling vivid co- narrative of relations between after residential school. lours and his trademark em- “Indians” and the “Whites” (his Cardinal brings her trademark bossed symbols worked into words), a reminder of how our ability to go inside her character’s skies, oceans and mountain, identities and present situation deep and painful infected scars the B.C. First Nations artist has was constructed, a chronicle of while also fi nding humour in the teamed with CBC radio host and 29th Annual Ontario Native Education Counselling King's own thoughts on and in- everyday, and goodness in dark author Robert Budd to deliver a Association teractions with historic moments corners. These survival skills have delightful children’s book that -- makes for entertaining but in- kept Johnnie alive on the street will be enjoyed by all. Conference formative reading. until the fateful day when she Vickers uses some illustra- Taking aim at the stories that encounters a teacher from St. Da- tions from past work, but mainly defi ne our peoples -- from Louis vid’s at --of course – a Tim Hor- new pieces to tell the story of “Creating a New Legacy for Success” Riel to Custer, from mascots ton’s. That teacher, who is now Weget, a boy whose parents can May 27, 28, 29, 2013 like the Redskins to serious mat- Anglican Assistant Bishop George see is going to be very large in- ters like residential schools and King, is played to perfection by deed. When they take him to the land claims - - King never fails Michael Kopsa. Chiefs to fi nd out what his great Water Tower Inn , Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario to highlight the absurd and the There are so many excellent size is all about, they are told the humourous, while giving us a lines in the play it’s hard to know Chiefs have been waiting for him For more Information new understanding of our own where to begin. They are delivered for a great deal of time. Weget history. In his view, our history as soon as Johnnie strolls into the must go on a journey and in the Phone (705) 692-2999 is mostly a history of what White assistant bishop’s offi ce. When he end, brings light to the darkness people want – primarily our land. realizes a street person has dared that his people have been living Email: [email protected] Or Website: www.oneca.com If you've ever wanted to to enter his private space, he tells in. A universal tale. Everyone Welcome! learn more about the stories of her, “We can’t help you here.” “Raven Brings the Light”; our peoples on both sides of the Johnnie, with the depth of Roy Henry Vickers & Robert borders, and don't mind smirking knowledge and wit found in many Budd, Harbour Publishing 2013 the whole way through it, this is residential school survivors, re- –Laura Robinson Page 22 Anishinabek News May 2013

Anishinabek loyal car sales customers By Marci Becking AJAX – Car salesman Bobby Dickinson and his team at Village Chrysler Dodge Jeep are extra busy these days and it’s all because they make an effort to fi nd First Nations customers. “A couple years ago I got a call at 5:30pm on a Saturday from a guy in Wiky who had bought a car from me and he then referred me to three people,” says Dickinson, who is known as “Bobby D” to his sales team at the dealership. “It just started snowballing from there.” Bobby D’s car delivery person, Bill Tighe, routinely makes 600-ki- lometre trips to deliver new and used vehicles to First Nations on Mani- toulin Island – including M’Chigeeng and Wikwemikong – as well as communities like Wasauksing, Garden River, Nipissing, Rama, and – closer to home – Six Nations. “Next week we’re delivering to a First Nation in New Brunswick,” Bill Tighe from Village Chrysler Dodge Jeep in Ajax delivers a 2010 Pontiac G5 to client Nichole Laford says Dickinson. “Last year we delivered over 100 cars to First Nations.” in M'Chigeeng First Nation. Ajax Village Chrysler Dodge Jeep, which has been in the business for over 40 years, set up a booth at this year’s Little NHL tournament in Mississauga – Dickinson says that it was nice to fi nally meet the people he had only dealt with by telephone. “Many people came up to me and said – ‘Hi, you sold me a car last year.’ From our contacts at the tournament, we delivered 16 cars in March and 18 in April to First Nations customers.” He says they will be at next year’s Little NHL, which will again be held in Mississauga. “I’ve been in the business for 20 years and this is the best satisfaction I’ve had in dealing with customers,” says Dickinson. “It’s rewarding when I hear from my First Nation clients who are loyal and are recom- mending me to their brother or sister. I don’t get word-of-mouth loyalty from anywhere else.”         Dickinson doesn’t understand why more car dealerships don’t make the effort when it comes to satisfying First Nations customers’ needs.   
  “I’m not sure of the reason, but I’m glad they don’t!” says Dickin- son. “There’s no extra paperwork involved and there are no extra service fees.”
          For more information on Village Chrysler Dodge Jeep, visit www. villagebobby.com 
        $  #     $  # #             Skilled workforce  !      ) ### #   needs First Nations  "## #         " * By Kelly J. Lendsay employer-of-choice for Aboriginal $         TORONTO – The Aboriginal talent, and Canada globally, as a %
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         unite in support of each other, the We are asking employers to 
      need for foreign workers, and the reach out to the untapped and need to advance a skilled and lo- powerful potential of First Na- cal workforce that includes First tions, Métis and Inuit workers and Nations, Métis and Inuit people businesses. – Canada's youngest and fastest Kelly J. Lendsay is President & growing population. Aboriginal CEO, Aboriginal Human Resource people, a Canadian labour market Council
 
      solution that will help bring re- solve to our country's skills short- age, has surprisingly been a missed element in the many media reports that have been fi led recently about foreign workers and a skills short- age. As Canada emerges from the economic downturn and baby boomers retire, the need increases for effective homegrown labour market solutions and foreign workers. There is not a “cookie cutter” solution that will resolve the labour needs of employers or address current unemployment issues in Canada, including the country's despairing Indigenous employment and education gap. Economists agree that our sin- gle greatest challenge over the next 50 years is human capital, and by 2017 we will be in a net negative labour market growth rate. Smart corporations will tap into the fast growing Aboriginal labour market by positioning their company as an Page 23 Anishinabek News May 2013 E’knoo-maah-get/Storytellers Watching what Rabbit and Bearpaws white people do By Basil H. Johnston Before going to Toronto in 1955, I received all kinds of ad- vice from elders which consisted mainly of "Watch, listen! You won't go wrong! Watch what the white people do! Listen to what they say! You don't want to act like a country bumpkin." So I watched and listened but could not rid myself of my habit of looking on the ground to make sure I would not step into a hole in the ground or on a snake. Unsmiling, grim-faced people, all strangers, hulled their way Basil Johnston down Yonge Street against a fi le of unsmiling, grim-faced passersby rushing in the opposite direction. There were no trees to give shade or shelter, or a haven for birds or animals, except for pigeons. I had to be civilized so I had to learn to live a treeless existence; no longer would I be a Woodland Indian. One evening after dinner I set out on foot for the Davisville sub- way station. When the train carne to a screeching halt and the doors opened, the waiting passengers rushed into the train after the arriving pas- sengers had wormed their way out. Many of those boarding the train Books can’t teach like Elders ran into the coach and fl ung themselves on the seats and stretched their legs out, others fl opped into seats and curled up as if tired and By Emilie Corbiere she had learned do to hone my craft. I am no ama- needy of sleep. Recently, I had the wonderful from her moth- teur when it comes to doing bead- opportunity to attend a workshop er and grand- work and other crafts, but even in Parry Sound at the G'zaagin mother. at my age, it's still fun to learn Art Gallery. We are run- something new. You don’t want to act like An Elder by the name of Au- ning out of time I especially enjoyed Audrey’s drey Pawis was coming to teach to hear all of stories of how and when birch a country bumpkin.’ us how to make sweetgrass, birch our Elders sto- bark is collected, when to pick the bark and porcupine quill brooch- ries and learn sweetgrass and how to harvest the es. Audrey hails from Wausauk- the old ways. A porcupine quills, for those brave Emilie Corbiere One of the last passengers to enter the train was a tall man; he sing First Nation and her daugh- group of Elders enough to try. didn't step in or walk in, he lurched in and stood unsteadily at the ter Tracy owns the art gallery. in Toronto passed on some teach- She also told us, "don't forget doorway, fi nding support from the upright poles by the entrance. It was a gloomy Saturday ings through digital media, which to lay down your semaa when- "For Heaven's sakes! It's Christmas! Smile, look happy. Why afternoon but inside the air was I believe can be found at the Spa- ever you take anything from the so gloomy ... so unhappy ... miserable ... glum? Did somebody die? buzzing with excitement be- dina and Bloor Public Library. land". I'm pretty good when it Are you sad? Mad at somebody? Dismal about something or are all cause the seven of us participants This was an initiative of The comes to following directions in Choronto people like that?" couldn't wait to get started. Native Canadian Centre. I sup- a book, but there is no book that Then he cast his vision in my direction. "Hey, buddy," he slurred, After a few hours, it felt like pose this is one way to ensure I know of that can teach the way "ever seen anyone as unfriendly as these people? They should be be sitting around the kitchen table that the teachings don't get lost or an Elder can. happy, laughing – ha, ha, ha! It's Christmas ... isn't it? But these with your mom, aunties and forgotten. So if you are a young person people look as if they came from a wake or are going to one." grandma, drinking tea, making It's diffi cult for us so-called and you still have your grandpar- The man listed and reeled in my direction and occupied a seat crafts and doing beadwork. With “urban Indians” because access ents around, instead of looking next to mine. "Thanks for the seat buddy!" he breathed heavily, be- my own mother having passed to Elders can be hard. I drove for to Google for your answers, go fouling the air with alcohol. many moons ago, it was great four hours to attend that work- and ask them. You just might be I didn't know what to think, what to do; I was embarrassed. It to sit and listen to Audrey's sto- shop and the gas was not cheap, surprised at what they know and was best to humour him. Do as the White people do. ries about her own life and how but I felt this is what I needed to what you can learn. Baa maa pii. "Ever seen anything like this?" he asked, "Don't know how to celebrate, these Choronto types? You know, buddy...They should be laughin' an' singing songs. Don't you think Buddy?" By this time people were casting surreptitious glances at us, me, a Buddy to this Every day should be Mother’s Day lush. As we left Davisville Station the lush stood up and in a loud By Eden Beaudin taken our pro- him, even when the boy gives it voice invited the passengers to join as "Me and my buddy here ish There are so many ways to tection through a blind eye during the teen years, gonna sing a Christmas song, 'Silent Night'." defi ne the word “Mom”. thick and thin. and became busy with a job and "Silent night. Holy night. Come on Buddy! Sing!" and he clapped In the dictionary it is de- It is always seen his own family. me on the back, nearly knocking me forward. By now people were scribed as “a mature woman”. as this; even Like the saying, “Earth Day is smiling. My fi rst thought was, “What can in animals, the every day” I think Mother’s Day At St. Clair Station, the conductor came into the coach. In a loud this possibly mean?” Possibly, a mother duck should be the same. We shouldn’t voice: "All right you two. Quit bothering the passengers! Or else I'll woman who takes on the role of leading her fam- only surprise our mother with have to call the police. This is as far as you're going. Get off." taking care, nurturing, and loving ily, the mother gifts on Mother’s Day, but by Eden Beaudin In the brief argument between the happy lush and the sour sub- a child. bear protecting helping her with the chores or way conductor I escaped, boarding the train in another coach, oc- No matter the age we all have her cubs no matter what. taking her out for a nice dinner cupied by a dismal crowd of passengers. that fi gure in our lives. It may be During pregnancy not only throughout the year. What happened to my erstwhile friend, I don't know; I hope he your foster mom, your aunt, your is the mother carrying however It would be a big loss not to didn't end up in the slammer. grandmother. many more pounds to her belly, have a mom in the family because "Watch! Listen! You might learn something!" echoed in the cav- In aboriginal culture it is one but suffering the pain that comes she is the one family member erns of my mind. of the teachings that we must re- along with it and the busy journey who holds the tree together. Basil H. Johnston, O. Ont., LLD, B.A., Chippewas of Nawash, spect our parents, or in any reli- to come. In tradition she is the one who is the author of numerous books, including Ojibway Heritage and gion for that matter. One of my favourite books is makes amazing bannock, and Ojibway Ceremonies. In 2012 he received the Debwewin Citation The one day of the year in Robert Munsch’s, “ I Love You how tragic that would be if she for excellence in Anishinabek Nation Story-telling. For the full- May is Mother’s Day, when we Forever”. was not here to make it. length version, visit www.anishinabeknews.ca celebrate our love and appre- It shows that no matter the age In conclusion I would like to ciation towards the one who has of the boy, his mom always loved say, I Love You Mom! Page 24 Anishinabek News May 2013

STUDENT PROFILE

Business Whachay/Aniin: Native Early Childhood Education (NECE) My name is Marlene Essex, I am an Oji-Cree from Constance Lake First Registered Practical Nursing Nation. I currently reside in Serpent River First Nation with my husband Rob and our four beautiful children. It was three years ago I obtained information Social Service Worker (Tending the Fire/Caring for Water) about AEI through a career fair held in Serpent River First Nation and Traditional Aboriginal Healing Methods discovered a perfect opportunity to pursue my goals in Business and Business Administration. As a result of my studies through the AEI program, this allowed me to pursue my schooling and to obtain a college diploma while being able to raise my family at home. I am happy to share that I have secured employment with the Bank of Nova Scotia. I graduated from the two-year Business Program and First Nation Child Welfare Advocate (FNCWA) was selected for the Valedictorian Award. I am currently enrolled in Business Pre-Health Sciences Administration, which is a continuation of the Business Program and I will be graduating in 2013. Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)

Apply online or download/mail application packages at www.aeipostsecondary.ca/aeiregistration