CELEBRATING 30 YEARS Eeyou Eenou the voice of the people SUMMER 2004

1974–2004: 30 Years of Progress

Visit From the United Nations 1974–2004: 30 Years of Progress School Board Funding Package Focuses on Adult Education From Hog Farms to Howtizers The Grand Council Finding Balance in the Fight of the Crees Against Diabetes 30 years of progress

The Grand Council of the Crees Table of Contents A message from the Editor ...... 2

Board of Directors 2004 ...... 5

Please send A message from the Grand Chief ...... 6 correspondence to: Cree/Quebec Forestry Board ...... 14

Bill Namagoose, Editor 1974–2004: 30 years of progress ...... 16 Eeyou Eenou Nation Embassy of the Cree Nation A brief update on developments at the Cree 81 Metcalfe Street, Suite 900 School Board ...... 27 Ottawa, Ontario K1P 6K7 School Board Funding package focuses on or by e-mail: adult education ...... 30 [email protected] In memory of Robert Jared Epstein ...... 32

http://www.gcc.ca The Boumhounan Committee: a study in cooperation ...... 34 Please send feedback to: E-mail: [email protected] Health Board achieves multi-year funding ...... 38

Cree Regional Authority From hog farms to howitzers ...... 40 INCE THE FIRST AGREEMENT with the Quebec and Canadian governments was reached 2 Lakeshore Road. Nemaska Quebec J0Y 3B0 in 1974, there have been as many disagreements as agreements with the province and The EM-1-A/Rupert Diversion Project ...... 45 SCanada. In fact, we have entered into legal proceedings on more than two dozen Ipperwash Inquiry into the shooting of occasions to protect our rights. Yet, in looking back over the past three decades, it’s clear that Dudley George starts in Ontario ...... 46 for every step backward we have taken two forward. The journey has been long and difficult but today, we maintain control over our land, culture and our future. Finding balance in the fight against diabetes ...... 50

© Reproduction is prohibited without written permission of the Editor. A message from the Editor

Bill Namagoose

Thirty years ago Cree leaders got together and decided to form the Grand Council. They knew this was necessary, not only to defend Cree rights but In reality, the times that they talk of were provided almost no services. We had no to prepare for the future of our people, our Cree Nation. not free of hardship. Hunger and disease water and sewer systems, and little housing. were common and the Cree population was less than half of what it is today. Moreover, While continuing to practise the tradition- In this issue of Eeyou Eenou, we examine the well as our increasing ability to deal with the fur trade was a difficult way to make a al activities crucial to our individuality, history of our struggle with those outside the social and health problems that we face. living and buyers were corrupt. Many elders we must also work in the territory, invest our nation who did not respect our rights tell us that they do not want us to experi- or the obligations they agreed to in 1975. Clearly, work still needs to be done to ence the hardship they endured out on the in businesses and economic opportunities The struggle has not been easy, but it has improve urgently needed services. We need land. While we can honour their achieve- there, and increase our involvement in been very worthwhile. Gradually, as we to provide adults with the skills and train- ments, the elders want us to put things in regional government. win battles, we gain the means to develop ing they need to access jobs now and in the perspective. our nation. future. At the same time, the education As a result of our collective actions through system must offer sufficient training to the When our leaders met in 1975, their the Grand Council, we now have local There are some who claim that we more than 200 youth who will enter the job children’s education was in the hands of governments with hundreds of employees. should return to a time when there market every year. the Department of Indian and Northern We operate our school and health systems, Affairs or the Commission Scolaire of and have an income security program were no problems, when there were Our health system faces its own challenges: Nouveau Québec. Prior to that, education for those who want to live in the bush. only Crees and when we lived from diabetes, increasing heart disease, and the was delivered by the Roman Catholic and These are examples of what we have the land and the animals. social problems that have resulted from the Anglican churches. accomplished over the past 30 years. treatment at residential schools. What will we accomplish in the next 30? Also in this issue, we look at two examples Similarly, health services were provided for 2 of the progress we’ve made in education There are some who claim that we should us, not by us. Education and health services Our history proves that we have the capaci- 3 and the delivery of health services to our return to a time when there were no prob- were pitiful, but we had little say in either ty to deal with the problems we now face. people. We learn of the improvements made lems, when there were only Crees and when case. Our local governments consisted of We have made great progress in community in the education of our youth and adults, as we lived from the land and the animals. perhaps one or two band employees and development and need to do more.

Eeyou Eenou Nation Summer 2004

For example, we must ensure that our people have equal access to community housing, and to leisure and other services. By working together through our Cree government we can make this happen. BoardBoard ofof I am very grateful for the wise decisions that our leaders have made in our local DirectorsDirectors 2004 2004 and national Cree governments...I feel

confident about the future... CRA Montréal Oujé-Bougoumou CRA Nemaska Grand Chief Ted Moses Chief Sam R. Bosom Eddie Diamond By making local and national Cree govern- T – (514) 861-5837 Kenny Mianscum Matthew Swallow F – (514) 861-0760 Willie Iserhoff ments work better, we will increase our T – (819) 745-3911 F – (819) 745-3426 or -3168 T – (819) 673-2600 influence in the regional economy and CRA Nemaska F – (819) 673-2606 administration. Our communities must be Deputy Grand Chief Waskaganish open to the territory. We must not only Paul Gull Chief Robert Weistche CNYD Nemaska receive visitors and attract customers from T – (819) 673-2600 Billy Diamond Andrew Neeposh the territory, but move into it as our grand- F – (819) 673-2606 T – (819) 895-8650 T – (819) 673-2600 parents did every year when they went onto F – (819) 895-8901 F – (819) 673-2606 the land to make a living. While continuing Chisasibi Chief Abraham Rupert Waswanipi CHRD Mistissini to practise the traditional activities crucial Steve Bearskin Chief Robert Kitchen Henry Mianscum to our individuality, we must also work in T – (819) 855-2878 Rhonda Oblin T – (819) 923-2525 the territory, invest in businesses and eco- F – (819) 855-2875 T – (819) 753-2587 F – (819) 923-2111 nomic opportunities there, and increase our F – (819) 753-2555 involvement in regional government. Eastmain Montréal Chief Edward Gilpin Jr. Wemindji Norman Gull, CSA I am very grateful for the wise decisions Kenneth Gilpin Chief Reggie Mark T – (819) 866-1234 T – (819) 977-0211 Danny Tomatuk F – (819) 866-1331 that our leaders have made in our local and F – (819) 977-0281 T – (819) 978-0264 national Cree governments. Based on the F – (819) 978-0258 Montréal progress we’ve made in 30 short years, I feel Mistissini Corporate Secretary confident about the future of our nation. Chief John Longchap Whapmagoostui John Paul Murdoch Thomas Neeposh Chief David Masty T – (514) 878-9641 Bill Namagoose T – (418) 923-3461 Losty Mamianskum F – (514) 878-1450 F – (418) 923-3115 or -3625 T – (819) 929-3384 F – (819) 929-3203 or -3969 Nemaska Chief Josie Jimiken GCCEI Ottawa 4 Thomas Jolly Sr. Bill Namagoose 5 T – (819) 673-2512 T – (613) 761-1655 F – (819) 673-2542 F – (613) 761-1388

Eeyou Eenou Nation Summer 2004

A message from the Grand Chief

Dr. Ted Moses

then came the Kanatewat Case. It suggested However, the Agreement’s vagueness was This year is the 30th anniversary of the creation of the Grand Council of the that Cree Aboriginal rights might well pose essential. Had the terms been specific and Crees, or Winibegowiiyouch–Notchimiiwiiyouch Enatinmatouch, as it is a challenge to the status quo. Governments had there been a precise schedule of imple- referred to in our language. In fact, the term in our language does not refer and multinational companies were watch- mentation, the Agreement might never to the Council itself, but to what the Council does: coastal people and inland ing this situation and we were well posi- have been signed. Also, governments might people working in support of each other’s interests. This is our mandate— tioned to negotiate an agreement that have done then what they have done since to work in the interest of the people. would surpass anything that had ever with other agreements and insisted that the been accomplished. social development terms be removed As anyone will conclude from reading the Complexe on our lands. Although we won because they were too expensive. The summary list of events that made up the in the Superior Court, a week later the Court The James Bay Agreement did just that. It Agreement’s vague language actually bulk of our work over the last 30 years, of Appeal overturned the decision. It stated did away with reserves and created instead allowed for negotiations to continue long working in the interest of the people often that the balance of interest lay in favour of three categories of land on which the Crees after the Agreement was signed. requires that we take a roundabout route. completing the project, as its completion maintained rights. The Crees hold priority would benefit all Quebeckers. It added that rights to hunt on all categories of land and ...Aboriginal peoples who have signed It is a little like the adventures recorded in in any case, the rights of the Crees, if any, to participate in the development and gov- agreements since 1975 do not have our traditional stories: we have met all could be compensated. ernance of all categories of our traditional commitments for social development... kinds of people all over the world on our lands—Eeyou Istchee. The Agreement also journey—many have helped us and a few Clearly, the James Bay and Northern recognizes Cree rights in the areas of educa- I believe that the James Bay and Northern have not. There have never been pre-set Quebec Agreement (JBNQA) is better tion, health, governance, environmental Quebec Agreement will prove to be the best directions to go this way or that; the Cree and social protection, justice, police, and agreement ever signed. Unlike the Crees, than any agreements signed by other leadership has always been guided by the income security. Clearly, the James Bay and Aboriginal peoples who have signed agree- spirit of what is right for the people. Aboriginal nations since 1975. Northern Quebec Agreement (JBNQA) is ments since 1975 do not have commitments better than any agreements signed by other for social development; they do not have When we decided to set up the Grand At the time these were very important Aboriginal nations since 1975. treaty-mandated and protected school and Council in August 1974 in Eastmain, we decisions for all Aboriginal peoples. health boards; and they do not have fund- were indeed taking on a great task. We had Government had always extinguished or Some argue that the Agreement’s language ing to develop themselves. For these 6 just won and then narrowly lost the most ignored Aboriginal rights. These rights were was too vague and that as a result the Crees Aboriginal peoples and for Canada, the lack 7 important legal battle of our history, the considered lesser than the presumed rights have had to wait all these years to launch of these provisions, will, in the long run, Kanatewat Case, in which we had tried to of non-Aboriginal governments and compa- their 1975 development plan, and have had result in great social, political and economic stop the building of the La Grande nies to take our lands and resources. And to launch it bit by bit. This is quite true. costs. By purchasing “certainty” instead of

Eeyou Eenou Nation Summer 2004

“It is to the credit of the Cree leaders who formed the Grand Council that they were able to think in terms of the future of the Cree Nation, and not let smaller issues stand between them.”

Complexe, was to be built and that two oth- the Cree Nation that was on our minds. It ers were a possibility. If all had been built, is clear that the Crees wanted access to good 25,000 square kilometres of territory would housing, employment, and the freedom to Aboriginal development plans in their The Agreement was not intended to be a be flooded today. According to the New choose between the traditional way of life treaties, these peoples will pay a much fixed and static legal document but rather Agreement, the NBR Project that would and development. Let us not lose sight of higher cost than had they followed the a flexible agreement which would allow have flooded 8,000 of those 25,000 square the fact that our survival as the Cree James Bay model. problems to be worked out through kilometres will be eliminated if the much Nation, with our language, culture and on-going interaction.” smaller EM-1-A Project is approved. spiritual values, depends on how each and We have fought every inch of the way every one of us does the job that we have for the implementation of our 1975 It was in this spirit that we negotiated and As time goes on, it is becoming more undertaken. If we act with the honesty, Agreement and we will continue to fight. signed the New Relationship Agreement evident that not all major river systems persistence and respect for others that As we gain recognition, we also gain the with Quebec. Implementing the Agreement should be developed for hydroelectric pur- guided the lives of our ancestors, we will means to implement the training, educa- in this way requires ongoing political will poses. Society in general is beginning to continue on the right path. tion programs, community development on the part of government. In the New greatly value our increasingly rare pristine measures and other services that are Relationship Agreement we exceeded the watersheds. bringing the Crees the full benefits of original JBNQA in two major ways: economic participation. It is to the credit of the Cree leaders who First, Quebec decided that it was unrealistic formed the Grand Council that they were Given Canada’s rigid approach to imple- for the Crees not to receive benefits from the able to think in terms of the future of the mentation since 1975, it is ironic to read the development that takes place on our tradi- Cree Nation, and not let smaller issues following in the 1982 Federal Report on the tional territory. It was decided that the Crees stand between them. If we are to progress, Federal Implementation of the James Bay would receive $70 million per year over the we must take a page from their book by and Northern Quebec Agreement: 50-year term of the Agreement, in spite of building our nation to the benefit of all. Quebec’s insistence in 1975 that benefits We must do more with the resources we “The Agreement was designed to allow for be tied to specific obligations and not have and ensure that all Crees enjoy equal 8 the evolution of Inuit and Cree self-govern- to development. access to services and facilities. 9 ment and to allow for the adaptation of specific rights, benefits and institutions to Second, in 1975 it was agreed that one I am certain that in 1974 when we set up changing conditions and circumstances. major hydroelectric complex, the La Grande the Grand Council, it was our survival as

Eeyou Eenou Nation Summer 2004

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Eeyou Eenou Nation Summer 2004

Explaining the new measures to control Cree/QuebecCree/Quebec access to the territory Under the new rules of the Adapted Forestry ForestryForestry BoardBoard Regime, efforts are to be made to plan future road networks in a fashion that limits access to the territory. This is to be accomplished through two specific measures: This caused a great deal of concern among The Cree/Quebec Forestry Board (CQFB) held its most recent meeting the Tallymen and the Waswanipi Local Joint 1. Limiting the number of road connections in Mistissini in June. This was the third time that the Board has met in Forestry Working Group members, who were between two traplines. To do this, road person and this meeting represented somewhat of a watershed for the surprised that the work had been authorized junctions must be planned to form closed group. Unlike the past meetings, where discussion was focused mainly without prior consultation. circuits that will not permit easy passage on administrative “start-up” issues, the majority of work at this meeting to neighbouring traplines. Winter roads related to active projects within the mandate of Chapter 3. In response, the Waswanipi Local Joint will also be encouraged as an alternative Working Group requested that the to limited road connections. Ideally, For example, the Board spent quite a bit and Parks (MNRWP). Thus far the sub- Cree/Quebec Forestry Board conduct an access should be only one route in and of time reviewing the Wildlife Directives committee has established a framework for investigation into this case. The Board out of each trapline. Project. Mandated within the Paix des developing the Wildlife Directives and is in mandated the GCCEI and MNRWP Forestry Braves Agreement, this project requires the the process of identifying key species that Coordinators to prepare a report with 2. Road construction providing direct access Board to develop a series of measures to the Cree Tallymen feel are priority. The recommendations for the Board to consider. to permanent watercourses and lakes will improve upon the existing provisions that subcommittee is planning further consulta- A preliminary draft of this report was tabled also be limited, except for the construc- address wildlife protection in both the Forest tions with other Cree communities that are at the last meeting in Mistissini. The goal tion of bridges and culverts. Act and the new Agreement. affected by forestry activities. Once this of the report was to review the events of the species list is finalized, the sub-committee W-06 case and make positive recommenda- Ensuring that these measures are effective The goal of the report was to review will put forward measures to better harmo- tions to ensure that the situation is not will require careful planning among the the events of the W-06 case and make nize forestry with the habitat needs of repeated. The Cree/Quebec Forestry Board is forestry companies and the Tallymen. It is these animals. currently reviewing the recommendations the job of the Local Joint Forestry Working positive recommendations to ensure made by the Forestry Coordinators and a Groups to facilitate this planning. that the situation is not repeated. Another important item that the Board decision will be taken at the next meeting reviewed at its last meeting was the case on whether to accept and act on these Over the past six months, the Board has of W-06 in the Broadback River sector of recommendations. established a sub-committee to begin this Waswanipi. Last winter, workers from project. This sub-committee has worked very Abitibi Consolidated began intensive road The events surrounding the forestry activi- that the provisions of Chapter 3 are imple- closely with the Local Joint Forestry Working construction and harvesting on trapline ties on trapline W-06 this past winter mented. The ongoing work on the Wildlife 14 Group members in Waswanipi, members of W-06. Unfortunately, the MNRWP did not illustrate part of the role that the Board Directives also demonstrates the Board’s 15 the Cree Regional Authority (CRA) and rep- follow the schedules for consultation within will have to fulfill in the coming months challenge of developing innovative resentatives from the wildlife branch of the the Adapted Forest Regime of Chapter 3 and years. The Board’s approach to W-06 is measures to improve the forestry regime Ministry of Natural Resources, Wildlife prior to issuing permits for this work. in keeping with its mandate of ensuring in Eeyou Istchee.

Eeyou Eenou Nation Summer 2004

1974–2004: 30 YEARS OF PROGRESS

rival of the UR WAY OF LIFE was significantly changed with the ar th y. They brought with them Europeans on our lands in the 17 centur their links to the European economy, which was rapidly establishing a ee furs and later our traditional land, Omarket-based system around the world. Cr ed by people who had never set foot Eeyou Istchee, became things to be barter in the James Bay area...

1974–2004: 30 YEARS OF PROGRESS

Recognizing the enormous threat The process of change 1971, April 30: The Government this presented to our lands and and of worldwide of Quebec announces the James Bay future, the Crees filed an injunction economic integration hydroelectric project. to halt the projects. That injunction has accelerated. was granted in November 1973. Relations with the 1972: The Crees institute court actions Unfortunately, a week later, the Hudson’s Bay against the Government of Quebec, Hydro- Quebec Court of Appeal set aside Company were Québec and the James Bay Development the injunction, citing the best inter- replaced over time Corporation and their contractors. ests of the Quebec population as by relations with its rationale for reversing a just Canada and Quebec, 1974: The Grand Council of the Crees decision. The Supreme Court of as schools, health (of Quebec) is incorporated. Canada, in a split decision, decided services and local against hearing a Cree appeal. government took root on our lands. The fur 1974, Nov. 11: The Crees, the Inuit economy was first supplemented in the of Quebec, Quebec and Canada sign the Given the court decision, and rec- 1950s by work in forestry and mining. Only Agreement in Principle that leads to the ognizing the need to support the in the past 30 years has it been overtaken signing of the James Bay and Northern communities and people, the Crees decided by these activities as well as by hydroelectric Quebec Agreement one year later. n fact, between 1670 and the early the most reasonable course of action was to and other types of development. 1900s, ownership of the Cree lands negotiate. In November 1974, a year after 1975: The Crees and Inuit of Northern Ireputedly exchanged hands at least four the injunction was first granted, we reached More than at any time in the past century, Quebec sign the James Bay and Northern times. Imagine their arrogance—all of this an agreement in principle for a treaty with and particularly since the first agreement Quebec Agreement (JBNQA) with the was done without our knowledge. Our ance- Quebec and the Government of Canada. was reached 30 years ago, the future of the province of Quebec, the Government of stors woke up one morning in what in some people’s minds had become Rupert’s Land. Cree Nation is now becoming more clear Canada, Hydro-Québec, the James Bay Some time later they awoke in Canada and That 1974 agreement in principle (the resu- and more secure. Development Corporation and the James then in Quebec. lting treaty was approved in 1975) signalled Bay Energy Corporation. Under the JBNQA, the beginning of 30 years of negotiations, The following list traces the progress we’ve the Crees receive $125 million (and the RECOGNIZING THE ENORMOUS THREAT THIS PRE- agreements, disagreements, political and made over the past 30 years: Inuit $100 million) and gain control in a SENTED TO OUR LANDS AND FUTURE, THE CREES media fights, and treaties, culminating in THE PROJECTS. FILED AN INJUNCTION TO HALT the Peace of the Brave, a landmark agree- ment signed in 2002. Some criticize the After the arrival of the Europeans, nearly 1975 agreement for not having set out a four centuries would pass before a historic clear plan for implementation. However, agreement would acknowledge the Cree this ever-present fight for our rights has Nation’s presence on our own lands. The been one thing that now defines us as a defining factors started to come together on nation. Without this history, we would April 30, 1971, when the Quebec govern- probably not be as motivated, as knowl- ment announced its intention to build three edgeable or as united in our efforts to see hydroelectric complexes in the James Bay the implementation of our rights and to 18 Territory. Typically, the Crees were not told garner respect for our existence as a nation. 19 in advance of Quebec’s plans. Rather, most Today, new agreements are still being nego- of us learned of the decision by radio. tiated and new deals being considered.

Eeyou Eenou Nation Summer 2004

1974–2004: 30 YEARS OF PROGRESS

variety of areas of local and regional An extensive review of the JBNQA by the 1982: The repatriated Constitution of government. More importantly, the Agree- Government of Canada confirms the govern- Canada constitutionalizes the rights of the ment is intended to ensure Cree and Inuit ment’s failure to assist people in the James Crees and Inuit of Northern Quebec con- participation in the development of the Bay area. A modest action plan is adopted tained in the James Bay and Northern James Bay Territory. The Crees ratify the to resolve the most immediate problems. Quebec Agreement. James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement after it is signed. Of the 6,500 Crees, 922 1981: The Grand Council attends a 1982: Interest rates shoot through the roof vote in favour of the Agreement and 1 meeting in Geneva, Switzerland, the second and the world economy slows down. Hydro- votes against. historic meeting of non-governmental Québec cancels its plans for the construction organizations to address the rights of of the Great Whale and NBR Complexes. 1977: Quebec ratifies the James Bay and indigenous peoples. Federal officials tell us Northern Quebec Agreement and passes Northeastern Quebec Native Claims Settlement that our participation will cause a “back- 1984: Federal government opens the legislation to implement it. Act, which also recognizes the special rela- lash” against the Crees in Canada and James Bay and Northern Quebec and tionship between the Crees and Canada. that federal officials in Geneva “will be Northeastern Quebec Claims Implement- watching you.” ation Office to address the lack of federal IN THE SUMMER, HUNDREDS OF PEOPLE IN CREE COMMUNITIES FALL ILL AS A RESULT OF INADEQUATE 1979: Hydro-Québec has problems meet- policy, plans and machinery for implement- OVERCROWDED HOUSING, AND THE ABSENCE OF AND ing the water level commitments around THE FEDERAL CONSERVATIVE GOVERN- ing the JBNQA. While the office has CLEAN WATER AND PROPER WATER SYSTEMS... Sakami Reservoir, as set in the JBNQA. MENT OF BRIAN MULRONEY RENEGES ON neither a budget nor a strong mandate, The Sakami Lake Agreement is signed. ITS COMMITMENT TO FUND THE CREE it succeeds in implementing the 1984 1978: The province of Quebec informs LOCAL GOVERNMENTS... Cree-Naskapi (of Quebec) Act and secures the Crees that programs for community 1980: In the summer, hundreds of people capital grants for the Cree communities. development do not apply to Cree commu- in Cree communities fall ill as a result of 1982: Canada publishes the results of its nities, stating that the Crees are ineligible inadequate and overcrowded housing, and inquiry into the federal implementation of 1985: The Federal Conservative govern- because they opted for federal lands in the the absence of clean water and proper water the James Bay and Northern Quebec ment of Brian Mulroney reneges on its Agreement. The Chisasibi Relocation systems. On August 13, 1980, the Grand Agreement, commonly referred to as the commitment to fund the Cree local govern- Agreement is signed. Council of the Crees sends telegrams to “Tait Report.” The Report outlines a series ments in accordance with the “Statement Premier Levesque, Prime Minister Trudeau of faults in the federal implementation of of Understanding” signed in 1984. 1978: Parliament ratifies the James Bay and Minister of Health, Monique Bégin, to the Agreement. It states: “The Agreement and Northern Quebec Agreement by pass- ask them to fulfil their promises in the James was designed to allow for the evolution of 1986: The La Grande 1986 Agreement is ing the James Bay and Northern Quebec and Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement for Inuit and Cree self-government and to allow signed by the Crees, Quebec and Hydro- adequate housing, sewer and for the adaptation of specific rights, benefits, Québec, as is the Mercury Agreement. The water systems and health facilities. and institutions to changing conditions and configuration of the La Grande Project is circumstances.” This has not begun to changed to allow for the project to meet 1981: In spite of the JBNQA, liv- happened, however. more of the peak demand. ing conditions deteriorate in the Cree communities. When Canada and Quebec fail to meet their obli- gations under the Agreement, the 20 Crees are forced to use their com- 21 pensation funds to build desper- ately needed sewage treatment systems.

Eeyou Eenou Nation Summer 2004

1974–2004: 30 YEARS OF PROGRESS

role in the consultations and negotiations, 1992: The Oujé-Bougoumou Canada 1995: The Great Whale Hydroelectric and in the final meeting in Geneva. Agreement is signed. Among other things, it Complex is “frozen” by Premier Jacques calls for the construction of the new village. Parizeau of Quebec. 1991: The Federal Court decides that the Great Whale Project falls under the 1993: The Crees attend the UN World 1995: The Crees and Canada sign the jurisdiction of both the Federal and Quebec Conference on Human Rights in Vienna first agreement on funding to support government’s Namagoose Case. and help launch the UN’s Permanent the operations of the Cree community Forum for Indigenous Peoples. governments. 1991: Canada’s Environment Minister, Lucien Bouchard, calls for an environmen- tal and social impact review of the Great Whale Project, under the terms of the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement.

1989: The first Oujé-Bougoumou 1991: At the UN, the Grand Council raises Agreement is signed with Quebec. the issue of protecting the rights of the Crees in the event of Quebec separation. 1989: In response to an announcement by Quebec that it is going ahead with 1992: The Crees file a brief with the UN Phase II of the James Bay Project, the Grand Commission on Human Rights to raise the Council decides at a General Assembly held possibility of human rights violations if we in Montreal to take court action against the were to be removed from Canada without proposed projects. The Council also decides our consent. to bring its case to the world in a campaign

CONVENTION THE INTERNATIONAL LABOUR ORGANIZATION (ILO) APPROVES COUNTRIES. THE CREES NO. 169 ON INDIGENOUS AND TRIBAL PEOPLES IN INDEPENDENT IN THE FINAL MEETING IN GENEVA. PLAY AN ACTIVE ROLE IN THE CONSULTATIONS... AND

1993: Crees lose the Eastmain Case ask- 1995: The Cree Grand Council meets in organized in cooperation with environmen- 1992: The Crees and Hydro-Québec sign ing for an environmental and social impact Montreal and decides to hold a Cree refer- tal and consumer advocate groups. the Opimiscow Agreement on the La Forge review of the EM-1 Project. While remarks endum on Quebec separation from Canada. 1 Project and on La Forge 2, an addition to made “in obiter” by Judge Decarie have The Cree analysis, Sovereign Injustice, is 1989: The Cree School Board signs an the La Grande Complexe 1975. since been used as a pretext by Canada for released. On October 24, 1995, the Cree agreement with Quebec on the financing non-implementation of parts of Section 22 vote on “Do you consent as a people that of the Board, which is outlined in Section (of the JBNQA), the Crees nevertheless the Government of Quebec separate the 16 of the JBNQA. 1992: New York State cancels its managed to negotiate the Nadoshtin James Bay Crees and Cree traditional terri- $12.6 billion (US) contract with Hydro- Agreement in 2002. tory from Canada, in the event of a yes vote 22 1989: The International Labour Organi- Québec. This contract was one of the in the Quebec referendum?” Result of the 23 zation (ILO) approves Convention No. 169 main commercial deals that caused 1994: An agreement is signed with Cree referendum: 77% voter participation; on Indigenous and Tribal Peoples in Inde- Hydro-Québec to propose the Great Quebec to see to the implementation of the 4,666 vote No, 183 vote Yes. pendent Countries. The Crees play an active Whale and NBR Projects. 1989 Oujé-Bougoumou Quebec Agreement.

Eeyou Eenou Nation Summer 2004

1974–2004: 30 YEARS OF PROGRESS

Supreme Court of Canada, which refused to hear the case. This culminates in a submission to the US Trade Representative. The submission asserts 1999: The Crees launch a major public that by denying the Crees their rights with relations initiative on the forestry issue. This respect to forestry, Canada and Quebec are culminates in a highly publicized meeting subsidizing the forestry industry. with senior executives from Home Depot at their shareholders’ meeting in Atlanta in 2001: Mercury Agreement. the spring of 2000. 2002: Agreement Concerning a New 1999: Based on a Cree submission, the Relationship between the Government UN Human Rights Committee condemns of Quebec and the Crees of Quebec. Canada for extinguishing the rights of indigenous peoples (and contravening 2002: Nadoshtin Agreement. Article 1 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights). 2002: Cree Employment Agreement.

2000: The Crees launch a targeted inter- 2002: Agreement on the Decommiss- vention in the softwood lumber dispute ioning of HQ/SEBJ “work sites” or 1997: The Cree Federal Round Table 1999: The Crees and Canada sign an between Canada and the United States. installations no longer in service. meets. Ms. Jane Stewart, federal Minister of agreement regarding the provision of They make several lobbying trips to Indian and Northern Affairs, tells Cree employment assistance and training Washington to meet with various Senators 2002: Waskaganish Transmission services to the Cree communities. and Congressional Representatives. Line Agreement. ...THE JAMES BAY AGREEMENT SIGNED IN 1975 WILL BE HONOURED... 1999: The Crees file additional injunc- tions against specific forestry companies RELA- [IT IS] “AN IMPORTANT PART OF THE in order to preserve and protect the rights AND CANADA.” TIONSHIP BETWEEN THE CREE sought in the main forestry case. Kitchen Case. leaders and other federal ministers that the James Bay Agreement signed in 1975 will 1999: In a preliminary decision on one be honoured, describing it as “an important of the forestry injunctions, Justice Croteau part of the relationship between the Cree rules that, as written, Quebec’s Forest Act and Canada.” is not in line with the rights of the Crees under the JBNQA. He then orders the gov- 1998: The Crees file a major lawsuit ernment to reorganize its forestry regime against both governments and 26 forestry within six months so that it maintains companies operating in Eeyou Istchee. the Crees rights. His decision is soon over- 24 Among the many issues cited, the Crees turned in appeal and he is dismissed from 25 maintain that forestry as practised, the case. Justice Croteau’s recusal set a legal violates Cree rights under the JBNQA. precedent in Canada. The Crees fought for Mario Lord Case. his reinstatement all the way to the

Eeyou Eenou Nation Summer 2004

1974–2004: 30 YEARS OF PROGRESS A brief update on 2002: Whapmagoostui Transmission 2002: Complementary Agreement Line Agreement. No. 14 to the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement. developments at the 2002: Agreement Respecting Disputes and a Dispute Resolution Committee. 2003: Implementation Funding Agreement related to the administrative Cree School Board 2002: Settlement framework related to and secretarial costs of the Cree-Quebec the transfer of lands between Mistissini and Forestry Board and the joint working groups Oujé-Bougoumou. under s. 3.51 of the Agreement Concerning By William Mianscum, Chairman of the Cree School Board a New Relationship. 2002: Agreement Concerning Mineral Resources Development in the James Agreement Concerning a New 2004: Over the past year the Cree School Board undertook a comprehensive review Bay Region. Relationship between Hydro-Québec and of all programs and of service delivery to our students. This review was mot- the Crees of Eeyou Istchee, an agreement ivated by many factors and was timely, given the negotiations that were Complementary Agreement which settles matters concerning the impact 2002: planned for the renewal of the Cree School Board funding rules. No. 13 to the James Bay and Northern of the La Grande Complexe. Quebec Agreement. Our local schools and regional education “THERE HAVE NEVER BEEN PRE-SET support services group developed many DIRECTIONS TO GO THIS WAY OR new initiatives and these were presented to the Ministry of Education. An open dialogue THAT; THE CREE LEADERSHIP HAS on the challenges facing the Cree School ALWAYS BEEN GUIDED BY THE SPIRIT Board and the Cree Nation regarding the OF WHAT IS RIGHT FOR THE PEOPLE.” status of education in our schools was Dr. Ted Moses undertaken through the negotiations and in other exchanges with the Ministry of Education.

I was pleased to see the Board enter into these negotiations with important data on school success rates, graduation and reten- tion rates. The Board presented the data The discussions with the Ministry of on student achievement and outlined the Education brought forward many positive challenges we face. In subsequent editions recommendations from experts within the of Eeyou Eenou and in other publications, we Ministry, who commented on our approach- will present some of this data and the plans es and plans to improve the results of and initiatives we intend to implement to our students. improve results. This will be done in a spirit 26 of openness, to ensure that everyone has the Clearly, we need new approaches to help 27 information needed to partner with the our students succeed in their education. Board to improve our students’ education. At our last meeting, the Council of

Eeyou Eenou Nation Summer 2004

Commissioners authorized a reallocation of programs and spending to prioritize the most important initiatives identified.

It is clear to us that we must focus on the delivery of services in our schools. We have identified significant new resources and recognize the need to reallocate certain existing funds. The Council has therefore authorized the reallocation of resources previously targeted to the Alternative Education program.

The Council has approved the first year of the plan, which will ultimately continuing education will double over reallocate $15 million over the next A new five-year funding agreement the life of the agreement. three years... I am pleased to announce that the Cree School Board has finalized a new five-year The Regional Technical/Vocational Training It has also called for improvements to the funding agreement with the Governments Centre, to be constructed starting this sum- Teacher Training program to encourage of Canada and Quebec. The present agree- mer at a cost of $18.3 million, will be a trainees to access regular programs and to ment is the first ever tripartite funding focal point for the development of commu- enter into specialized support agreements agreement negotiated by the Crees and nity services in continuing education. At the with selected universities. We will also allo- the Cree School Board pursuant to the same time, the Ministry has finally agreed cate special resources to Post-Secondary provisions of the James Bay and Northern to construct other local continuing educ- Program Student Services to deal with the Quebec Agreement. ation centres, and a first project is going to needs of this new initiative. be negotiated in the coming months. The need for services throughout the The Council has approved the first year territory and in all communities has The need for services throughout the terri- of the plan, which will ultimately reallocate tory and in all communities has long been long been recognized as a priority... $15 million over the next three years to the recognized as a priority for the Board. I am following initiatives: local support for spe- In the past Canada did not participate but pleased to say that we are making progress cialized teachers in the maths and sciences, rather attempted to deal solely with Quebec in this regard. additional guidance counselors, improved on financing questions. The recent legal technologies and Internet access in our proceedings on Cree education affirmed the This brief update is the first of many I hope schools, improvements to library services obligation for tripartite negotiations and the to provide. I look forward to promoting bet- and many other priorities. position of the Cree School Board and the ter access to information at the Board and Crees in this matter. to securing the input of all stakeholders in I intend to conduct a community tour in the the development of our education system. 28 coming months to explain the priorities we The new funding agreement provides 29 have set, to review the statistical results in long-term stability for the Board and has I hope that you will provide input at the our schools and to seek further community significantly increased the level of funding upcoming tours of the communities and input regarding our curriculum and services. for continuing education. The budgets for through your local school committees.

Eeyou Eenou Nation Summer 2004

School Board funding package focuses on adult education

A new five-year funding package for the Cree School Board will dramatically expand the number of opportunities available for Cree people in the James but for the moment the focus is on Bay Territory. completing the training centre in Waswanipi. “If it’s successful and “is in continuing education, where there people are attending it, then we’ll will be annual allocations exceeding $12 look at other regional institutions.” million in the next five years and about $18 million in capital investment in the “There’s been good cooperation professional training centre now under between the Cree School Board construction in Waswanipi.” and the Ministry of Education... Additional facilities for adult education They’ve had five years of working may be built in the next five years, with these funding rules and the says Bosum, but for the moment the Ministry knows what’s needed.”

focus is on completing the training “The negotiations went very smoo- centre in Waswanipi... thly,” says Bosum. “There’s been good cooperation between the Cree The focus on continuing education arose School Board and the Ministry of from the Paix des Braves agreement, which Education over the years. They’ve The new agreement, which has been calls for greater Cree participation in the had five years of working with these approved in principle, builds on the pre- James Bay hydroelectric developments. The funding rules and the Ministry vious five-year plan. It includes new funds agreement will create employment opportu- knows what’s needed.” for after-school daycare and maintains nities for skilled workers. Increasing access the funding rules and levels for youth to adult education will enable people to While the text of the agreement is 30 education. take advantage of these opportunities. still being reviewed by the Ministry, 31 Bosum says the terms are unlikely to “The big increase,” says Abel Bosum, Additional facilities for adult education may change. He expects the agreement to Negotiator for Cree Quebec Relations, be built in the next five years, says Bosum, be signed by the end of July.

Eeyou Eenou Nation Summer 2004

In memory of Robert Jared Epstein

By Grand Chief Ted Moses

obert Jared Epstein, “Bob” to He was a key player in the drafting of the Ovide Mercredi, former National Chief, those who knew him, passed away UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous recently said of Bob: “…Bob Epstein was one R surrounded by his wife Sanni, sons Peoples, in securing the UN declaration of of the main champions for our people in Peter, Danny and Eric and daughter Katya, a Decade for Indigenous Peoples, and in advocacy and institutional developments on on Thursday, July 29, 2004, at his home the creation of the UN Permanent Forum the international stage, and for our human near Wendover Ontario. He was born in for Indigenous Peoples. He was also instru- rights movement for freedom, justice and 1940 in San Francisco, California where he mental in obtaining the recognition of the development. He will be missed. Many have and his brother Lewis and sister Elise were Grand Council of the Crees as having for- been taught his knowledge while others raised by parents who had fled Europe to mal status in the UN human rights forums. have learned directly from him how to escape the holocaust. After being trained advocate for their people and how to in philosophy at the University of Southern Bob was known internationally for his advance the indigenous domestic and inter- California at Berkley, he taught there and at work in support of indigenous peoples national agenda through intelligent action the University of Alaska. In 1970 he and and will long be missed by many academ- and self-determination.” his family moved to Montreal, where Bob ics, government experts and representatives became a supporter of the Crees in their as well as indigenous leaders around the Bob had an ability to encourage people efforts to oppose the James Bay Project world. He will also be missed by his friends and to motivate them to find solutions to and to have their rights recognized. and by those like myself who were not only their problems. He was inspired by the his close friends but also his colleagues. persecution of the Jews to seek justice for He became a key advisor to the Cree School indigenous peoples. Those who know Bob’s Board and later to the Grand Council, In addition to working with the Grand work, including former Grand Chiefs Billy where he worked on efforts to have Canada Council, Bob worked with, among others, Diamond and Matthew Coon Come, and respect its obligations under the 1975 James the Council of the Conne River Micmacs, myself, will forever be grateful that he was Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement and, the Four Nations-Louis Bull Band Alberta, our friend and colleague. We will miss his 32 after 1980, on the Cree efforts to secure the Pimicikamak Crees at Cross Lake good humour, his laugh and his love of life. 33 international recognition for the rights Manitoba, Nishnawbe–Aski Nation, the of indigenous peoples. Gitanyow First Nation and the Algonquins Grand Chief Ted Moses of Long Point First Nation.

Eeyou Eenou Nation Summer 2004

The Boumhounan Committee Upcoming stages in the assessment and approval A study in process for the Eastmain cooperation 1-A Rupert Diversion Project IN PROGRESS Impact statement by the proponents

FALL 2004 About halfway through the feasibility phase of the Eastmain 1-A Rupert mals or birds, for example, they are always Submission of the impact statement to the Diversion Project, cooperation between the Cree and Hydro-Québec is accompanied by a representative of the Cree Provincial Administrator of the JBNQA and “working beautifully,” according to Philippe Mora. Trappers’ Association.” to the Review Panel (appointed under the Consultations with community members Canadian Environmental Assessment Act) Mora is the Project Administrator responsi- Waskaganish—the four communities that and trappers have dealt with concerns such ble for managing the agreement between signed the Agreement—all have representa- as clearing forest land, navigating the river 2005 the Cree, Hydro-Québec and the Société tives. Coordinators from Chisasibi and after the diversion, and ensuring adequate Public hearings on the project’s impacts d'énergie de la Baie James (SEBJ). The Wemindji have also been invited to partici- water levels for the spawning seasons of and issues raised in the impact statement Boumhounan Agreement, signed in pate since these communities will be affect- vulnerable aquatic species. February 2002, ensures Cree participation ed by the project, though they did not sign EARLY 2006 in every stage of the Eastmain 1-A Rupert the Agreement. Mora has been particularly impressed with Recommendations to the Provincial Diversion Project. the way the Cree representatives have been Administrator of the JBNQA by the Review The Committee assesses technical aspects of able to provide information to the commu- Committee (appointed under the JBNQA) ”When we send experts into the field to the project and its potential impact, and, nities. Under the terms of the Boumhounan study fish, mammals or birds...they are through the Cree representatives, shares Agreement, the representatives are information with the communities. It has employed full-time. They are well prepared EARLY 2006 always accompanied by a representative held meetings in all of the Cree communi- with maps, displays and presentations to Report to the federal Minister of the of the Cree Trappers’ Association.” ties that signed the Agreement, and met help people understand the project and how Environment by the Review Panel with the trappers whose family territories it is being developed. (appointed under the Canadian Envir- The Cree/Hydro-Québec Feasibility Study border the river. “We explain what we have onmental Assessment Act) Group, or Boumhounan Committee, began in mind,” Mora says, “and try to deal with Groups including youth, teachers, students, its work about three months after the their concerns.” elders and trappers, can approach their 2006 Agreement was signed. The Committee local representatives and request a meeting Issuance of authorization certificates consists of Cree, Hydro-Québec and The Committee also ensures that the Cree or presentation tailored to their needs. and permits required for the implem- SEBJ representatives. are directly involved in the scientific studies entation of the project 34 it is conducting. “We’re trying to pull For more information contact your 35 The Cree Regional Authority, the Cree together scientific and traditional knowl- representative (see page 37) or the Public Trappers’ Association and the Bands of edge,” Mora explains. “When we send Information Office at 1-877-880-8378 (toll Eastmain, Mistissini, Nemaska and experts into the field to study fish, mam- free) or visit www.bip-pio.gc.ca

Eeyou Eenou Nation Summer 2004

Environmental and Cree/Hydro-Québec Feasibility Study Group technical studies (Boumhounan Committee) The Cree/Hydro-Québec Feasibility Study Cree Representatives Group (Boumhounan Committee) is For more information about the Eastmain 1-A Rupert Diversion Project, conducting the following studies. don’t hesitate to contact your local representative. Environmental studies

• Water quality • Mercury • Geomorphology • Oceanography Stanley Gilpin Simeon Trapper Paul Gull • Fish populations Eastmain Representative Waskaganish Representative Cree Regional • Lake sturgeon P.O. Box 90 C.P. 60 Administration Representative • Instream flow 147 Shabow Meskino 16-B Nottaway 2 Lakeshore Road Eastmain, Qc J0M 1W0 Waskaganish, Qc J0M 1R0 Nemaska, Qc J0Y 3B0 • Vegetation Phone: (819) 977-0211 Phone: (819) 895-2662 Phone: (819) 753-0264 • Large and small fauna Fax: (819) 977-0281 Fax: (819) 895-2800 Fax: (819) 753-2606 • Rare species • Birds • Landscape • Land use by the residents of the James Bay region and other users Wilbert Shecapio Donald Gilpin David Visitor Mistissini Representative Cree Trappers' Association Wemindji • Land use by the Crees 187 Main Street Representative Coordinator • Social aspects Mistissini, Qc G0W 1C0 P.O. Box 59, Caribou Road 16 Beaver Road • Archaeology Phone: (418) 923-2882 Eastmain, Qc J0M 1W0 Wemindji, Qc J0M 1L0 Fax: (418) 923-3461 Phone: (819) 977-2165 Phone: (819) 978-0265 • Forestry Fax: (819) 977-2168 Fax: (819) 978-0258 • Economic spinoffs

Technical studies

• Geodesics • Mapping Lawrence Jimiken Robbie Tapiatic • Hydrometry Nemaska Chisasibi Coordinator • Bathymetry Representative P.O. Box 150 1 Lakeshore Road New Band Office 36 • Geotechnics 37 Nemaska, Qc J0Y 3B0 Chisasibi, Qc J0M 1E0 • Hydraulics Phone: (819) 673-2126 Phone: (819) 855-2878 Fax: (819) 673-2542 Fax: (819) 855-2875

Eeyou Eenou Nation Summer 2004

Health Board achieves multi-year funding

The Quebec government has approved a new funding package for the Cree Health Board. The agreement will provide consistent increases in base funding as well as new capital to build and upgrade facilities. The approval follows Although the basic funding seems to be discussions held pursuant to the New Relationship Agreement with Quebec approved, there are a number of issues to resolve health and social issues funding. These discussions were carried that have been deferred, Bosum says. out jointly by the GCC(EI) and the Cree Board of Health and Social Services. One is residential services for the elderly. The agreement includes funding for multi- service centres, but residences are not yet The funding package provides for base Resources to make certain that doctors and in the package. Discussions about how to funding of $69 million in 2004–2005, dentists are available throughout the region deliver residential services will continue increasing $40 million each year over the will be ensured thanks to a provision after the agreement is signed and will next five years. This will bring base funding governing the level of funding allocated by include representatives from the Cree com- up to $109 million annually by the fifth the Ministry of Health. “The Health Board munities. Individual claims resulting from year. New funding rules to be negotiated doesn’t receive this funding directly,” says the 1980 gastroenteritis epidemic will also will govern the indexation factor, which Abel Bosum, GCC Negotiator for Cree be dealt with in a separate process after will operate much like those in place for Quebec Relations. “It gets an allocation the agreement is signed. the Cree School Board. for a number of doctors and dentists for the region. In the past there’s never been Discussions on amending the legislation Resources to make certain that doctors an amount. Now we’re looking at a way of governing the Cree Health Board will also and dentists are available throughout guaranteeing a certain level of resources for continue after the agreement is complete. permanent or visiting doctors and dentists.” The legislation needs to be revised to reflect the region will be ensured... the terms of the new James Bay agreement. A capital funding envelope in excess of The package also includes funds for multi- $100 million will allow the Health Board service centres for elderly and disabled Negotiations for the Cree Health Board to build and renovate health facilities in people. Quebec has put $20 million into funding package have taken five years, the Cree communities over the next five to building the centres, which are under but Bosum says he is very pleased with 38 seven years. Substantial funds will also be construction. The new money will go the results. The text is still being fine-tuned, 39 available to build approximately 275 new towards operating and maintaining but both parties are working toward a final housing units for Cree Health Board staff. them and providing services. agreement by the end of September 2004.

Eeyou Eenou Nation Summer 2004

From hog farms to howitzers Scattershot development proposals for Chapais/Chibougamau have residents Assessing public opinion Employment is a key issue for residents looking for lasting benefits of Chapais and Chibougamau. The two newest projects—the proposed hog farm- ing complex and the weapons testing facility—have stirred interest in America and the second largest in the Mining, munitions testing and meat production—these three radically different the communities. development projects have residents in the Chapais and Chibougamau area world. McKenzie Bay estimates a capital weighing the social and environmental costs of economic progress. expenditure of approximately $364 million To find out how much the non-Cree on the development, which would exploit residents of the two towns know about only a portion of the ore deposit over the the proposed facilities and whether they The local economy has suffered from recent Northern Quebec Agreement, the Grand next 20 years. support them, the Grand Council of the mine closures and reversals in the forestry Council has a representative on each of Crees commissioned POLLARA Inc. to sector. Residents are understandably ready the assessment committees. The committees The Lac Doré facility would produce vanadi- conduct a public opinion survey. to welcome any new projects that promise review impact statements and make um compounds primarily for use in high The researchers also provided additional permanent employment opportunities and recommendations to the Ministry of the performance electrical storage devices, which information about environmental and prosperity for the region. Environment. They may recommend McKenzie is developing in strategic support social aspects of the projects and asked against allowing a project to proceed or of its other core business, wind power. residents how they felt about them in But, as a recent opinion poll commissioned propose conditions for development. light of this information. by the Grand Council of the Crees (GCC) In the past, processing vanadium has shows, non-Cree members of the comm- The big dig required a complex multi-stepped process. unities are not eager to sacrifice the envi- A proposed open pit mine at Lac Doré, However, McKenzie Bay has developed and ronment or compromise the region’s future approximately 70 kilometres southeast patented a streamlined, less expensive in exchange for empty promises. of Chibougamau, could boost the local technique for purification. However, the Lavalin, is Canada’s largest munitions economy for almost a quarter of a process is characterized as “proprietary and company. The $1.5 million development A proposed open pit mine could boost century, employing between 250 and confidential,” and scant information about would involve cutting down all of the trees the local economy for almost a quarter 300 people and generating a variety it is available. The company filed an envi- in a five-square-kilometre “impact zone” of indirect employment. ronmental impact study with Fisheries and and gating off up to 60 square kilometres of a century, employing between 250 Oceans Canada and the Quebec Ministry during testing. and 300 people... McKenzie Bay Resources Ltd., a wholly of the Environment in July 2003. owned subsidiary of McKenzie Bay Interna- The test range may provide from three The projects—an open pit mine, an artillery tional Ltd., plans to mine and process The case for shelling to five permanent jobs for the region and 40 testing range and a multi-phased hog vanadium from a surface ore deposit that is Twenty-five kilometres southwest of the company expects it to produce some 41 production facility—are all currently 16 kilometres long and estimated to contain Chapais, SNC Technologies is proposing to “spin-off” economic activity in the form undergoing environmental assessment. 80 million tonnes of ore. The deposit is said use a 20-kilometre-long tract of land to test of increased trade for local gas stations, Under the terms of the James Bay and to be the largest yet discovered in North howitzer shells. SNC, a subsidiary of SNC- hotels and restaurants.

Eeyou Eenou Nation Summer 2004

Happy with hogs grounds has already come under pressure waterway that has yet to be determined. from logging, mining and sport hunting. Solid wastes may go to a composting Residents were both aware and company or be burned in the electric co- supportive of the hog farming proposal. The company proposes testing two or three generation plant in the town of Chapais. Some 77% knew about it and 62% sup- days every other week, about 60 days each An assessment of prevailing winds suggests ported it primarily because of the jobs it year. SNC maintains that the range would that any odors from the farm operation could create. Over half were much more have “almost no” effect on wildlife but would veer north of the town most of likely to support the project if it created acknowledges that the blasts will be heard the time. 75 to 150 jobs. from five kilometres away. It has volun- In spite of this support, respondents were teered to suspend testing during the Cree The goal is to ensure that developments aware of the possible drawbacks. About goose-hunting season. have no long-term negative impact... 14% identified pollution and 40% cited bad odours. In general, respondents Where the bacon comes home The factory farm facilities would overlap believed the complex would have a neutral A large-scale industrial hog farming traditional Cree hunting lands and some impact on soil and water quality. and processing complex proposed for the of the buildings would be less than four When researchers provided additional Chapais area by the community’s Economic kilometres from cottages on Lac Cavan. information, opposition increased. When Development Corporation is being present- residents were told that other communities ed as a major new source of employment In search of the right balance had rejected the complex, that it might and prosperity for the area. With all three proposals under review, benefit only a few residents, and that it balancing development in the Chapais could undermine property values and Developed in three phases over the next /Chibougamau region will be an issue for tourism opportunities, support declined 5 to 10 years, the project could provide some time to come. The environmental from 62% to 57%. At the same time, approximately 140 new jobs in the early assessment process may play a critical role strong opposition increased from 16% stages and as many as 300 on completion. in deciding the economic future of the to 25%. Local residents could be easily trained for communities and surrounding area. most of the positions. Residents were also informed that the The New James Bay agreement ensures that project proposes to use new technologies The project calls for the development of a the Cree people play a role in that process, to reduce the environmental impact of the feed mill, abattoir, pork processing facility, but it has some inherent challenges, says pork production process. The majority water treatment plant and offices within Ginnette Lajoie, an Environment (77%) of respondents said they would be two kilometres of Chapais. Structures for Coordinator in the Traditional Pursuits more likely to support the project if this breeding and raising livestock would be Department at the Cree Regional Authority. were the case. built about 15 kilometres to the southwest. The goal is to ensure that developments have no long-term negative impact on the When complete, the complex would contain environment, public health, society or econ- almost 58,000 live hogs at any given time. omy of a region. However, it is difficult to The proposed range would overlap several Disposing of the solid and liquid wastes look at projects in a “global” context. traditional Cree hunting grounds. According from this population would require an 42 to Cree trapper Paul Dixon, 20 Dixon fami- infrastructure similar in size to that of a “Each project has to be assessed independ- 43 lies have hunting camps in the vicinity, the small city. The developers are planning to ently,” Lajoie says. That means there’s no nearest only two kilometres away. The treat the waste water and dispose of it on mechanism for assessing “downstream” wildlife population in these hunting one of the owner’s potato fields and/or in a impact. Mining, munitions testing and meat

Eeyou Eenou Nation Summer 2004

production could have an impact on hunt- lating that it intends to focus on mining or The EM-1-A/Rupert ing, fishing and tourism, for example, but tourism, for example, the environmental there is no means of addressing the cumula- assessment committees can look at how a tive effects of all three developments on project will fit into the larger regional plan. Diversion Project these activities. Chapais and Chibougamau do not have There’s a worldwide move toward strategic land-use plans, Lajoie points out. But if With Phase 1—the project evalua- Phase 2 environmental assessment, which attempts people are concerned about the scattershot tion—completed, the EM-1-A/Rupert Phase 2 begins in November 2004, and is to look at development in a regional con- nature of the proposed developments in Diversion Project is preparing to expected to be completed by January text, Lajoie says. But in Quebec, each the region, they do have the chance to be enter Phase 2, the impact statement 2006. project still has to be examined without heard. The environmental assessment review. The following schedule traces Submission of impact statement reference to other nearby developments. process does not require formal public hear- the evaluation phase of the project • Hydro-Québec and SEBJ to submit impact ings, she says, but they can be triggered if and looks ahead to the review phase. statement by November 2004. There is an exception. When a community enough members of the community express has approved a formal land-use plan, stipu- their concerns in writing. Conformity analysis and receivability Phase 1 • Written public input welcome through Phase 1 was comprised of four segments: January 2005 (funding is available). field studies, notification, scoping and directives. Public hearings on the impacts • Written and oral public input welcome through January 2005 (funding is water and soil, and that it might disturb Field studies • Boumhounan Agreement reached available). Sad about shells wildlife and migration patterns. on February 7, 2002. Residents in the survey tended to be less Subjects also responded negatively when • Cree involvement in feasibility Recommendations of review and aware of the proposed weapons testing they heard that the project might create studies, started in the spring of assessment bodies facility. Although 81% of those in Chapais only three to five new jobs, that it had 2002, continues today. • Made available to Government of Canada, knew of the project, only 33% from been rejected by other communities, province of Quebec and Grand Council of Chibougamau had heard of it (bringing and that it could undermine tourism and the average down to 42%). property values. The concerns of Waswa- Notification the Cree (through January 2006). Over half of the respondents (54%) nipi Cree hunters about the range’s effect • Hydro-Québec and SEBJ notified opposed the facility while 42% were on hunting also had an impact: almost on December 12, 2002. Public consultation funding programs strongly opposed. Opponents expressed one-third of respondents said they were an aversion to violence and firearms and more likely to oppose the project for Scoping Draft directives concerns about danger to the community, that reason. • Draft directives (COMEV) completed • Total funding $53,710 (province of Quebec noise and pollution. Most respondents The majority said they’d be more likely in May 2003. $3,861; Government of Canada $49,849). didn’t expect the facility to have significant to support the project if weapons testing • Public consultation on draft directives impact on the local economy. were suspended during the big game and takes place from May 28-June 11, 2003. Conformity analysis When researchers provided additional Cree goose-hunting seasons and if the test • Total funding $134,000 (province of Quebec information, the proportion strongly range were built to minimize noise and Directives $74,000; Government of Canada $60,000). opposed to the project increased to 50%. environmental impacts. • Directives officially released on August 44 People were more opposed when they heard 14, 2004, signalling the completion Public hearings 45 that SNC chose the area because it is POLLARA conducted 716 telephone interviews with adult residents of the two communities in May 2004. of Phase 1. • Total funding $206,000 (province of Quebec “remote” and has few people and animals, Based on the sample size and methodology, the margin $116,000; Government of Canada $90,000). that the facility might contaminate ground of error is ±3.7 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.

Eeyou Eenou Nation Summer 2004

Ipperwash Inquiry into the shooting of Dudley George starts in Ontario

$7 million lawsuit against the Governments Last month, a Commission of Inquiry into the 1995 police shooting of native of Canada and Ontario, Premer Harris and demonstrator Dudley George began its hearings in Ontario. There’s a James three other Ontario Cabinet Ministers, the Bay Cree connection with this extraordinary David and Goliath story. local member of the provincial legislature, the Ontario Provincial Police, the OPP chain On September 5, 1995, at Ipperwash of their reserve for a provincial park. Then of command, and the police sniper who had Provincial Park in Ontario, Dudley George in 1941, the government took the rest of the shot Dudley George. was shot by an Ontario Provincial Police reserve at Ipperwash to make a military (OPP) sniper. No ambulance came for base. The residents of the reserve, including There were leaks that the Premier, or Dudley, and he bled to death in the back of Dudley’s family, were loaded onto military someone close to him, had met with the his brother Pierre’s car while being driven to trucks and dumped into a neighbouring OPP Commissioner hours before the hospital 40 kilometres away. reserve. They no longer had any land of their own. shooting, and the OPP was told to “Get In 1927, the federal government forced the f***ing Indians out of the park and the Chippewas to surrender a few hun- After the shooting, Dudley’s elder brother use your guns if you have to!” Maynard “Sam” George called numerous dred acres of their reserve... big law firms in Toronto to try to find legal The OPP sniper was convicted of homicide, Dudley and about 30 other Chippewa men, counsel. They all refused. Someone then sug- evidence started pointing right to Ontario but as far as Sam George was concerned, women and children had just occupied the gested he call Andrew Orkin of Montreal, a Premier Harris’ office, and the more it this was an attempt to scapegoat an indi- park, which was part of their former reserve. human rights lawyer who works extensively seemed that Dudley George was killed vidual for the crimes of a government and They were immediately confronted by a with the Grand Council of the Crees. Along to ‘teach Indians in Canada a lesson about possibly the Premier himself. There were force of over 200 riot police and snipers. with Toronto lawyers Delia Opekokew and who’s boss when it comes to land claims’.” leaks that the Premier, or someone close to A few months before, they had occupied Murray Klippenstein, Andy agreed to take him, had met with the OPP Commissioner the Department of Defense Ipperwash mili- on Sam’s case. So did the late Bob Epstein, The Georges were determined to uncover the hours before the shooting, and that the OPP tary base, which was also part of their also well known to the James Bay Crees. truth about who had ordered the massive was told to “Get the f***ing Indians out of 46 former reserve. force of paramilitary police to violently the park and use your guns if you have to!” 47 “It looked to me like an extra-judicial confront a handful of unarmed native In 1927, the federal government forced the execution,” says Andy. “The more we inve- demonstrators. So in March 1996, Orkin For the next eight years, in spite of having Chippewas to surrender a few hundred acres stigated the facts of the case, the more the and his fellow legal counsel filed a no funds and fighting a legal battle against

Eeyou Eenou Nation Summer 2004

determined to continue the cover-up,” says Andy, who now lives in Ontario but still works closely with the Grand Council of the Crees. “But it’s different now, because it’s not a few George family members and the lawyers carrying a massive court case against the Governments of Ontario and Canada. Instead, the process now belongs to an independent judge, and we hope and believe that Judge Sidney Linden, is determined to uncover the truth.”

While the fight is not yet over for the George family, their efforts to date have advanced all of our human rights...

The Ipperwash Inquiry is expected to issue its report by the end of 2005, and has been more than a dozen major government In 2003, on the eighth anniversary of the mandated to make recommendations to parties, Sam George and his legal team had shooting, Amnesty International stated: ensure that the shooting of First Nations forced Mike Harris to be examined under “The time is long overdue for a full, impar- demonstrators never happens again in oath for discovery, and had survived mil- tial public inquiry into the events at Canada. The Grand Council is very proud lions of dollars of taxpayer-funded efforts Ipperwash and the killing of Dudley George of the tremendous contributions that Andy to take them down (including an unprece- to be carried out, if not on the authority of Orkin and Bob Epstein have made over the dented court motion to make the lawyers the Government of Ontario then on the years to this historic case. While the fight is personally liable for court costs). established authority of the Government of not yet over for the George family, their Canada. To fail to do so is to compound the efforts to date have advanced all of our “We are still up against the same injustice, and also to flout the clear require- human rights. governmental parties in the inquiry as ments of Canada’s obligations under inter- national law.” The George family had Sam was in his lawsuit, and many of offered from the beginning to drop their them...continue the cover-up...” court case immediately if a Judicial Inquiry was called to investigate the shooting. But Andy and Bob ensured that the case for eight years, Premier Harris refused. Then became known all around the world. in late 2003, the Conservative government Amnesty International, the United Nations was thrown out, and the new Liberal Human Rights Committee, and many government agreed to do what the George churches, human rights organizations and family always wanted: call a public inquiry. Picture 1: Dudley George 48 trade unions, had all called for the truth Picture 2: Reg George, Andy Orkin, Sam George, 49 to come out about the alleged role of the “We are still up against the same govern- Murray Klippenstein and Carol George arrive at the Premier of Ontario in causing the shooting mental parties in the inquiry as Sam was first day of the Ipperwash Inquiry hearings in Forest,

of Dudley George. in his lawsuit, and many of them are still ON, July 2004 (Photo: Nora Penhale, Sarnia Observer)

Eeyou Eenou Nation Summer 2004

Finding balance in the fight Diabetes is a silent disease against diabetes Having a blood test at your clinic once a year is the best way to check for diabetes. Don’t wait until the damage of diabetes has been done. Check every year so that you can prevent the damage Fifty years ago, diabetes was almost unheard of among the Cree of Northern and live a long and healthy life. You can cessful at learning to “live with diabetes,” Quebec. Today, more than one out of every seven adults is afflicted with the illness. live with diabetes for quite a while with- and most feel stronger and healthier than out realizing it. However, here are a few before they were told they have the disease. “There’s so much of it that people are not 40. People under 20 are getting it too, and common symptoms that may indicate surprised when they find out they have it,” that’s something you really don’t see a problem. The good news is that you can live a long says Dr. David Dannenbaum, Medical in non-Aboriginal communities.” and healthy life with diabetes. You can also • Increased thirst Advisor to the diabetes program of the prevent it. To a large extent, you prevent Cree Health Board and physician in The scary part is that if you develop • Increased urination diabetes the same way you manage it: by Waskaganish. “They almost expect it.” diabetes at age 25 or 30, and you do not • Increased appetite exercising, eating wisely and keeping your take care of your health, you will be more weight down. There is a strong connection • Fatigue That’s a concern, says Dannenbaum, likely to have a heart attack or dialysis at between diabetes and obesity. For those with because people may begin to feel there’s a young age as well (about 10 to 20 years • Blurred vision the disease, losing weight can help control nothing they can do about it. That’s far after diagnosis, if you don’t take care of • Slow-healing infections their blood sugar and prevent complica- from the truth. your health). tions. For those who don’t have diabetes, • Impotence in men losing weight can dramatically decrease the Scientists and mainstream medical Scientists and mainstream medical practi- risk of getting it. practitioners don’t have a proven theory tioners don’t have a proven theory why diabetes has become so prevalent among The message is getting out. “The Cree The only way to have an impact on the ris- why diabetes has become so prevalent Aboriginal communities so quickly. For Health Board has been working to raise ing incidence of diabetes in the region is to among Aboriginal communities... many in the communities themselves, awareness and people are starting to make encourage healthier living. The Cree Health the answers seem obvious. Previous genera- changes. They are much more active and Board has been doing just that. The Board is The rate of diabetes among Aboriginal tions led active lives, spending long periods are making an effort to eat healthy food.” working with schools, daycare centres and people across Canada is about three times of time hunting, trapping and camping. restaurants to improve the quality of their as high as among the general population. They ate healthy, natural foods. In today’s There are good reasons why they should. food. It has also arranged for food labeling “What’s scary,” Dannenbaum says, “is that society, people are inactive and eat Diabetes can kill. It can cause blindness, in local stores. people are getting it at a much younger processed food that’s easily available. heart disease, kidney failure and circulatory 50 age. In the rest of the population, type 2 problems that can lead to amputations. To address childhood obesity, the Health 51 or adult-onset diabetes is seen as a problem “It took an effort to live 50 years ago,” There is no easy fix—it is a chronic condi- and School Boards have been cooperating for people over 40. Among the Cree, one out Dannenbaum says. “Today we have to tion that you have to think about for the on health promotions in schools. In Misti- of every four cases occurs in people under make an effort to lead healthy lives.” rest of your life. Many Cree have been suc- ssini, for example, students are encouraged

Eeyou Eenou Nation Summer 2004 on health promotions in schools. In Misti- people strive for balance. People who don’t ssini, for example, students are encouraged feel well decide for themselves when they to join the 100-Mile Club, walking need to change their lives. Healers work a mile a day to reach the 100-mile goal with them as equals rather than as medical during the school year. Walking clubs for authorities and address their physical, people of all ages are beginning to appear mental, emotional and spiritual aspects Logo captures in many communities as well. as a whole.

Initiatives such as Mistissini’s Healthy The Eastmain Wellness Centre incorporates our way of life Eating Active Living program (HEAL) a sweat lodge, ceremonies and gatherings. provide nutritionists to speak to community It also works with traditional herbal prepa- groups about healthy food choices and to rations, provides information on healthy teach classes on food preparation. foods and supports people who choose to fast as a means of restoring balance in In the spring of 2004, the Grand Council Together, these symbols represent the There are nutritionists working with most their lives. Some people have lost 40 to of the Crees adopted a new logo, one that connectedness of everything. We, the Crees of the community clinics now, either full- 50 pounds, according to Public Health would truly represent our history, and our of Eeyou Istchee, depend on them to sustain time or on a visiting basis, says Lily Officer Johanne Cheezo. And some who way of life. The logo, shown below, will and maintain our way of life. The elements Sutherland, a Public Health Officer with were pre-diabetic are well today. appear on all materials produced by the of the logo also show that if we are to the Waswanipi Band Council. “Last year we Grand Council of the Crees, including continue our way of life, we have a respon- did some programs in which the nutritionist Community participation is key to the Eeyou Eenou. The stretched beaver pelt sibility to maintain and ensure a balance. visited the homes of people with diabetes success of initiatives like the Wellness represents the Cree and their way of life and provided them with information about Centre, which has over 100 participants in on Eeyou Istchee. The symbols represent meal planning and what to watch for when various programs. “People help each other,” key elements in the Cree way of life. buying groceries.” Cheezo says. Specifically, here’s what each symbol means: Some improvements have occurred because People’s willingness to help each other of growing public awareness and general is also one of the reasons that David Dann- progress. Grocery deliveries are more enbaum is optimistic about the territory’s The Fish represents the water frequent than in the past and fresh foods long-term ability to manage diabetes. and all life that water provides. are more available in stores. Many of them “Diabetes is a disease you can prevent and have sections with foods for diabetics. control. As long as people learn about it and take responsibility for fighting it, the The Tree represents plant life, The diabetes challenge may also be helping prognosis is very good.” the earth, the animals and all to reestablish the central role of traditional that they provide. healing in Cree communities. The best Let’s learn from each other’s strengths recommendations the medical establish- and share ideas and initiatives to help The Goose represents air, winged ment has for controlling the disease is for each other in the fight against diabetes. creatures and all they provide. individuals to take responsibility for their Together, as a nation, as a community 52 own well-being and live more balanced and as individuals, we have to share lives. These are core values of traditional in the responsibility to live healthy and T.he Drum represents spiritual medicine. strong lives. strength of the Nation.

In initiatives like the Eastmain Wellness Centre, Cree healers are once again helping Eeyou Eenou Nation Summer 2004 New flag may soon be flying

XPECT A NEW FLAG to be displayed E soon throughout Cree communi- ties and offices. The new design for the

flag has been reviewed by the Grand

Council and is awaiting final approval

from the General Assembly.

The three proposed flag designs are

pictured right. The top one incorporates

the colour used in the previous flag.

The middle and bottom ones are in blue

and green, representing our coastal and

our inland people and also of course,

representing water and forest. The

middle also incorporates a Cree drum,

a symbol of Cree spiritual strength.