Page 1 ANISHINABEK NEWS The voice of the Anishinabek Nation

Volume 26 Issue 1 Published monthly by the Union of Ontario Indians - Anishinabek Nation Single Copy: $2.00 Jan - Feb 2014

43rd Annual Little NHL

March 10-13, 2014 Mississauga www.lnhl.ca

Language Conference

March 26-30, 2014 www.anishinaabemowin-teg.org

anishinabeknews.ca

Deputy Chief June Commanda, Councillor Arnold May and Chief Marianna Couchie with the Jan. 10 results of the ratification vote for Nipissing First Nation’s Gichi-Naaknigewin. – Photo by Faye Sabourin #NOFNEA http://portal. anishinabek.ca/ Nipissing dabs way to first public/ Anishinabek constitution Your opinion counts! By Marci Becking Chief Couchie recognized the importance of the off-reserve vote, and NIPISSING FN – A blue bingo dabber recorded the historic occasion said communications and education about the constitution will be ongo- as Nipissing First Nation citizens became the first Anishinabek Nation ing. community to ratify a constitution. “We had some interest in the online voting. We will look at what Online mining resources Official results for the community referendum on Nipissing’s Gichi- worked and what didn’t for future elections.” http://anishinabek.ca/ Naaknigewin showed 319 votes in favour and 56 against. Many First Nations across Canada have their own constitutions, but minerals-and-mining.asp Electoral officer Fred Bellefeuille says use of a bingo dabber on Nipissing is the first of the 39 current member communities of the An- numbered sheets is standard procedure in Nipissing elections because it ishinabek Nation to ratify its own law-making authority. makes the results more visible for webcast viewers at home. “It sets out the values and beliefs of the people of Nipissing and is an OCF CONFERENCE The Gichi-Naaknigewin ratification process began in November, exercise of inherent Aboriginal rights in Canada,” said Nipissing coun- 2013 with online and mail-in voting. Advance polls were held Dec. 5 cillor Arnold May. February 27-28, 2014 and 6, and in-person voting and counting was Jan. 10, 2014. A video campaign series was launched in December, featuring “It is with much enthusiasm that we announce a favourable vote for Nipissing staff and citizens, and Anishinabek Grand Council Chief Pat- the Nipissing Gichi-Naaknigewin,” said Chief Marianna Couchie. “The rick Madahbee discussing the importance of the constitution and the Nipissing Gichi-Naaknigewin has been in discussion for the past eight work that has progressed over the past eight years. The video series can years, and to see the membership take the time to vote in favour proves be viewed on the Nipissing First Nation administration YouTube page. they have faith in the document and in moving towards self-govern- For more information and to read the Nipissing Gichi-Naaknigewin, ment.” visit www.nfn.ca www.ojibweculture.ca GOOD CREDIT - BAD CREDIT- NO CREDIT AN APPROVAL WAITING FOR YOU!

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Chiefs meet with Premier Association of Iroquois and Allied Indians Grand Chief Gord Peters, Akwesasne Grand Chief Mike Mitchell, Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Patrick Madahbee, Ontario Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs Minister David Zimmer, Ontario Regional Chief Stan Beardy, Premier Kathleen Wynne, Chief Chuck McPherson - Couchiching First Nation, Chief Bill Montour - Six Nations of the Grand River, Elder Garry Sault - Mississaugas of New Credit First Nation, Grand Chief Stan Louttit - Mushkegowuk Council, Chief Norman Hardisty - Moose Cree First Nation. Anishinabek have better plan to educate our children Anishinabek leaders, educa- to their own language, history, cul- servatives are very wrong-headed tions for their courage in writing tors and citizens have been saying ture and life skills. This fact alone in their approach to First Nations letters, signing petitions and post- for years that our students deserve has proven to discourage First Na- issues generally, and education in cards and for encouraging their equal access to quality education. tion student success. particular. The Canadian Chamber memberships to do the same. They made it clear how they want The FNEA would impose the of Commerce issued a report in The Union of Ontario Indi- to achieve that goal at November’s provincial education system on December, 2013 urging the federal ans has developed an online poll special Assembly on Education in our children. This approach is government to invest more in First to gather opinions about the pro- Nipissing First Nation. reminiscent of the residential and Nations education and improve posed First Nations Education Act After hearing presentations Indian day school systems that First Nations participation in the and help formulate a collective from Anishinabek education ex- caused so much harm in the past, workforce. response to it. The survey also so- perts, Chiefs in Assembly unani- and for which the federal govern- Grand Council Chief Patrick But the Harper government has licits input and support for the pro- mously endorsed a resolution to ment has already apologized. First Madahbee a reputation for not listening to posed Anishinabek Education Sys- move forward with the establish- Nations need to take full control Anybody who knows anything anything but loud voices. Accord- tem. We encourage all our citizens ment of an Anishinabek Education of the education of their children about education funding knows ingly, we have developed a lobby and their friends to participate in System. in order to achieve positive results. what the problems are and how strategy that is intended to influ- the survey at http://portal.anishi- For over 18 years we have been The system we have designed to fix them. But in unilaterally de- ence Canada to seriously address nabek.ca/public/ . actively engaged in the design and is fully First Nation developed and signing its FNEA, Canada ignored our concerns for the education of The Anishinabek Education plan of our own education system, controlled. The Minister of Indian the recommendations of the ex- our children. We are working with System is the cornerstone for re- the AES. We have been negotiat- Affairs will not have a say in how perts on its blue ribbon panel that all levels of government in an ef- building the Anishinabek Nation ing a self-government agreement the system operates nor will he was engaged to study the require- fort to secure the best possible deal and reclaiming our inherent right with Canada for all of that time have the authority to place any of ments for successful First Nation we can make. In the end, First to govern our own communities in and we are in the final stages of our schools under third party man- education. The panel recommend- Nations will decide whether the our own way. putting that agreement into force. agement, as is contemplated by his ed that the Act be co-created by the Anishinabek Education System is I urge all of you to put your The negotiated agreement will see proposed First Nations Education government and First Nations, and right for them. support behind it. our funding levels guaranteed over Act. The FNEA is simply an un- that the new education system be As part of our lobby strategy, Chi-miigwetch. a period of five years and, impor- welcome intrusion into Anishina- child-centred. Instead, the govern- we have reached out to our non- tantly, the deal even ensures that bek Nation inherent jurisdiction ment has designed it to operate at native allies to join us in our rejec- our funding is adjusted for any We know that all Canadian the whim of the Minister of Indian tion of the FNEA. The unequal fluctuations during the term of the citizens have access to the highest- Affairs. treatment of our students has to fiscal agreement. quality education available in their Many Canadians are starting end. I want to acknowledge those Grand Council Chief The AES, which is to be ad- provincial or territorial schools at to understand that the Harper con- individuals, groups and organiza- Patrick Wedaseh Madahbee ministered by our own Kinomaad- no direct cost to them. The costs siwin Education Body and the are borne by provincial and federal Regional Education Councils, will resources. Meanwhile, the federal have unfettered control of how we government makes no commit- educate our children as well as al- ment in the proposed FNEA to ad- location of funding. Our education equately fund First Nation educa- system will be accountable to our tion. Instead, the Act leaves it up communities and the parents, not to the Minister of Indian Affairs to to the Minister of Indian Affairs. decide though a regulatory process Our control of our education sys- the funding levels for First Nation tem is consistent with our inher- education. ent right to govern the education We all know how that pro- of our children as that principle is cess works. The Government of understood and articulated in the Canada has been imposing a 2% United Nations Declaration on the funding cap on First Nations edu- Rights of Indigenous Peoples. cation for decades, creating the The government of Canada very problems the feds now say ignores this fundamental human the FNEA will fix. They will not rights principle by continuing to even admit there is a funding gap impose differential treatment of between First Nations schools and First Nation students including in- those operated by provinces. But, equitable education funding. just as one example, the school in Mining message The First Nation Education Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishinaa- Grand Council Chief Patrick Madahbee heard former Ontario Premier Bob Rae tell a North Bay audience that Act (FNEA) proposed by the Gov- bek (Rocky Bay First Nation) re- times have changed; mining corporations must comply with the law and consult and accommodate the First ernment of Canada will utterly ceives $4,781 less per student than Nations on whose territories natural resources are located. Rae, principal negotiator for nine Northwestern fail First Nation communities by nearby provincially-funded Upsala Ontario First Nations in whose territories the rich Ring of Fire ore deposits are situated, addressed an ignoring their inherent rights to School in the Keewatin Patricia audience of 250 at a meeting sponsored by the local chapter of the Canadian Institute of Mining(CIM). educate their children according District School Board. – Photo by Ed Regan, Regan Pictures January-February 2014 Anishinabek News Page 3 Anishinabek Beausoleil’s oldest citizen honoured for inspiration

By Sharon Weatherall award," said Nellie, who says she annual Anishinabek Evening of BEAUSOLEIL FN – Nellie Mix- loves and prays for everyone. Excellence in Sudbury earlier in emong, the oldest Beausoleil First Nominator Melinda Mixe- the year. Nation citizen, was among nine mong refers to Nellie as the "in- The Evening of Excellence is community members honoured spiration" of her community. The a fundraising initiative of the An- in 2013 with Anishinabek Nation respected Elder still speaks the ishinabek Nation Seventh Gen- Lifetime Achievement Awards. Ojibway language, telling won- eration Charity (AN7GC). The At 98, Nellie – known as derful stories and translating. sister corporation of the Union of "Auntie" to members of the Chris- "She has been a great teacher Ontario Indians near North Bay tian Island community --was rec- and is truly a living legend," said works to ensure funding resources ognized for many contributions, Mixemong."She has outlived sev- are available for Anishinabek Na- including her prowess as a crafter eral prime ministers and chiefs on tion citizens to access in time of of quill, birch bark, sweetgrass and the island and her whole life has need, where no other funding is beading works, as a storyteller, been truly remarkable." available, in the areas of culture, and as someone who has always Nellie's award was one of six education, health, social, youth, demonstrated love of community presented during a Christian Is- Elders, emergency crisis and di- and people. land Community Meeting in De- saster relief. "I am very proud to be recog- cember. Three Beausoleil citizens Anishinabek Nation Deputy nized by my community with the received their awards at the 15th Grand Council Chief Glen Hare said he was honoured to be pre- Nellie Mixemong, the oldest Beausoleil First Nation citizen, with her senting the prestigious awards Anishinabek Nation Lifetime Achievement Awards. which he said were established as providing Status Card updates, in on and off the reserve and recently "a gift to the people" in recogni- addition to her roles in finance and completed his Language Immer- tion of their life accomplishments. payroll. sion program. "Over the last 15 years – Velma Smith (Culture, Pub- – Louise King (Culture) is $655,000 has gone to First Nation lic Service) is regarded as impor- an elder who is still making communities thanks to this char- tant community resource in times crafts with leather, sweetgrass, ity," said Hare. of grief. She has devoted her life and quills. Fluent in Anishi- Other 2013 Beausoleil First to the church, and her quill boxes naabemowin, Louise is an active Nations honourees were: were presented to Pope John Paul Elder in the United Church and in – Diane Forget (Culture)for and the Royal Family. Velma is an First Nation healing circles. using Anishinaabemowin in the Anishinaabemowin speaker. – The late Michael Sandy community's Long Life Care pro- – Cheryl and late Frank was nominated by BFN chief and gram as well as in her adopted Sutherland were catalysts for council for Political Leadership. community (Barrie) through her many area Aboriginal organiza- Born and raised in Chimnissing he connection at the Barrie Friend- tions, including S.U.N. Housing, spent a lifetime helping and build- ship Centre. Barrie Friendship Centre, Barrie ing community. As an entrepre- – Hazel Copegog for her in- Native Advisory Circle, Rising neur Mike began a construction Sharon honoured for storytelling volvement with the homemakers SUN Women's Support Group company to assist in development club, the St. Theresa's club and ed- Freelance writer Sharon Weatherall receives a Debwewin Citations and Endaad Housing in Orillia. and infrastructure of roads, homes, ucational committees. She speaks Cheryl and Frank graduated with schools, recreation and adminis- plaque from Maurice Switzer, director of communications for to her children in the language, en- the Union of Ontario Indians. Weatherall was recognized for her the native Counsellors Certificates tration buildings. courages her grandchildren to fin- through ONECA. For more information on the extensive body of journalism published for the Anishinabek News ish school and assists daycare staff about life in Chimnissing – Beausoleil First Nation – an estimated – Leon King helped foster na- AN7GC including how to nomi- with language taught to toddlers. tive culture and spiritual aware- nate someone for an Anishina- 100 stories over the past eight years. The Debwewin Citations are – Janice Monague (Public Ser- the first awards to be presented for excellence in storytelling about ness in his community. Leon car- bek lifetime achievement award, vice) has been a loyal First Nation ries the Pipe of a great uncle and please visit the AN7GC website at First Nations issues. In English, debwewin is often translated into staff member since the mid-70s, "truth", but it literally means "to speak from the heart". dedicates his life to sharing his www.an7gc.ca. working in the finance department teachings. He has helped others Farm Tales: Free rooster nice bonus By Jennifer Ashawasegai when we were all packed away in the car with the ALBAN – A few days after the new year chimed in, new kids and the rooster (which was in a large box), I jumped on Kijiji and found an ad for two free dairy the kind lady – Ruth was her name – also gave us a goats – the same breed which we are raising. bar of the wonderful goatmilk soap that she makes. So Ken and I headed over to a farm in Markstay I really hope I’m done dragging random goats to meet with the lovely couple who were giving away home. (I’m pretty sure Ken hopes so too!). We now the Saanen siblings – a doeling and buckling. Daisy have a herd of seven – five females and two males. and Jasper were born on one of the coldest nights of I didn’t get a chance to milk Willow, our old- 2013 – December 29 – and both suffered frostbite on est doe, after she kidded. We’re still setting up, and their ears. It made the ears slightly folded over, but things around the farm still hadn’t quite come togeth- they are healing well. er. I have to hand it to Ken – he pretty much single- Over two hours we discussed goats, hobby farm- handedly built the barn on his own. I held the odd ing and creative pursuits. Like us, they also have board in place once in a while, and cut a few more chickens. Unlike us, they have enough chickens to another time. The barn is just about done and will get sell eggs to sustain the flock and keep the hens in feed its final touches this spring. Ken figures the barn will and their household in fresh eggs. comfortably house about 15 goats. We both had a problem. I did not have a rooster While the snow is still on the ground, I’m going and had been looking for one for quite some time, to enjoy it very much. Winter means a slower pace and they had two extra. So, not only did we get two around the homestead. Spring brings a lot of work: free kids, the nice couple threw in a free rooster that there will be goats to milk, soap and cheese to make, had just barely matured and wasn’t yet six months gardens to plant and, hopefully, bees to keep. old. I would like to grow herbs to include in my cheese I felt like we were in one of those TV infomer- and gather local berries and flora to add value to my cials, you know, where the company advertises their products. Having products will be great but I need to product at a bargain-basement price, then the an- make money! Over the long relaxing nights of winter, nouncer exclaims: “But wait, there’s more!” I need to put my creative energy to use on a market- Zeebin, 3 years, and Daisy, 2 weeks. Except I didn’t have to pay for anything. Plus, ing plan. Page 4 Anishinabek News January-February 2014 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. What Stephen Harper didn’t learn in school No portion of this paper, including ad- vertisements, artwork, photos and edito- We are what we learn. tions territories without involving the land- rial content may be reproduced without What we hear from our teachers, copy from owners any say in the process. His party fa- written permission of the Anishinabek News Editor or UOI Executive. blackboards, and cram from our textbooks vours pipelines over lifelines. helps shape the beings we will become. To make First Nations more amenable to Readers are invited to submit letters, articles, and photos for publication. Please This makes it crucial that societies that en- his government’s economic agenda, Harper include your name, address and tele- phone number on all material submitted. sure their children are well and properly taught. has launched what some leaders call a legisla- All submissions will be reviewed for pub- Providing learners the right curriculum is the tive assault on their legally-recognized rights, lication based on priority of interest and edited for clarity of thought, taste, brevity best investment we can make in their futures. including an attempt to impose a First Nations and legal implications. Remuneration will In September, 1973, Stephen Joseph Education Act that would entrench unequal be paid for submissions only if a written agreement with the Editor is made prior to Harper began his high school studies at Rich- funding and dictated standards in First Nations publication. view Collegiate Institute in Etobicoke. He is schools. NOTE: All formal comments and complaints remembered by classmates and teachers as a Maurice Switzer The act would ensure that students attend- must be addressed to Editorial Board c/o Anishinabek News. bright and “geeky” lad who joined the Young ing these schools would not be taught their Editor: Maurice Switzer Liberals club and worshipped Prime Minister of minds – it’s safe to say that Stephen Harp- own languages, history, and culture by the Assistant Editor: Marci Becking Pierre Trudeau. er no longer idolizes Pierre Elliott Trudeau, most qualified teachers in classrooms of the Coordinator: Priscilla Goulais Earlier that year, the Supreme Court of whose son Justin is now trying to take his job. same standards as enjoyed by other Canadians. Contributors: Jennifer Ashawasegai, Canada had issued a landmark decision in the But they are supposed to remember lessons They would not learn about the 1973 Heather Campbell, Ian Campeau, that history has taught us, and certainly have Libby Chisholm, Kelly Crawford, Laura Calder Case, ruling that Aboriginal title did, Calder Decision, or the implications of the Dokis, Melissa Dokis, Albert Dumont, a good grasp of the rule of law. Michael Erskine, Rick Garrick, Zoe indeed, exist at the time of the Royal Procla- Royal Proclamation. Grams, Charley Hebert, Leslie Knibbs, mation of 1763. It was now the law in Canada Stephen Harper acts like someone com- In other words, their education would have Greg Macdougall, Don Marks, Christine McFarlane, Peggy Monague-McGregor, that King George III was absolutely correct pletely oblivious to Canadian laws, as they the same shortcomings as that provided for by Barb Nahwegahbow, Greg Plain, Laura represent the interests and respect the rights of Robinson, Muriel Sawyer, Amanda in decreeing that “the Indian tribes of North Stephen Joseph Harper. Shea, Chad Solomon, Diane Tregunna, America” were to be respected as “Nations”, First Peoples. Section 35 of the very Consti- Richard Wagamese, Sharon Weatherall. with “inviolate” land rights. tution he is sworn to uphold provides consti- PH: 705-497-9127 ~ 1-877-702-5200 Stephen Harper was not taught this in tutional protection to the aboriginal and treaty Maurice Switzer is a citizen of the Mississau- FX: 705-497-9135 rights of Aboriginal peoples in Canada. WEB: www.anishinabeknews.ca school. In fact 40 years later many Canadian gas of Alderville First Nation. He serves as E-MAIL: [email protected] students are not being taught this in school. In spite of this Canadian legal cornerstone, director of communications for the Union of MAIL: P.O. Box 711, Nipissing First Nation, North Bay, ON, P1B 8J8 Some of them are still being taught that North numerous Supreme Court decisions and such Ontario Indians and editor of the Anishinabek American Indians got here after crossing the international protocols as the United Nations News. Bering Strait between Siberia and Alaska when Declaration on the it was frozen over 13,000 years ago. And some Rights of Indigenous Canadian students are being taught that the Peoples, the Harper earth was created 5,000 years ago, like it says Conservatives have in the small print in the margins of their Bible. rammed through leg- Young Stephen was taught a lot of things islation that smacks he accepted as gospel truth – that there were of the still-in-force nine planets, and about 90 elements in chem- 1876 Indian Act, istry’s Periodic Table. Scientists subsequently whose terms include PUBLISHING CRITERIA amended these “truths”. a provision requiring GOAL Natives to get federal To publish a quality newspaper and In 1973 Stephen Harper’s education was related publications designed to foster in its infancy. He had no way of knowing that permission to sell pride and share knowledge about An- wooden carvings. ishinabek current affairs, culture, goals, a black baseball player named Henry Aaron and accomplishments. would break Babe Ruth’s cherished home run It may be rel- record, or that the first international space sta- evant that Stephen OBJECTIVES Harper is the first To provide information that reflects tion would remain in orbit for six years. the Creator’s four original gifts to the He couldn’t envision that Pauline McGib- Canadian Prime Anishinabek: bon would become the first female Lieutenant Minister since Joe Respect: To welcome diversity Clark who does not and encourage a free exchange of Governor of a Canadian province, of that the opinions that may differ without being Royal Canadian Mounted Police would admit possess a law degree. disagreeable. Fair and humourous women to their ranks. Harper is an econo- comments are welcomed, but not mist, and his gov- ridicule or personal attacks. And he certainly couldn’t imagine that one Honesty: Debwewin – speaking the truth day he would become Canada’s 22nd Prime ernment’s legislative – is the cornerstone of our newspaper’s Minister. focus is on making content. Political leaders aren’t expected to have money, specifically, Sharing: Providing opportunities for doing so by provid- people from the four corners of the crystal balls – to know who is going to win Anishinabek Nation to tell stories and the Stanley Cup, or make the latest scientific ing easy corporate record achievements, and to keep our access to natural re- citizens informed about activities of the breakthrough, or win the next election. And Union of Ontario Indians. it’s natural that part of their maturing process sources located on Strength: To give a voice to the vision of can involve a shift in perspectives, a changing traditional First Na- 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. Loners can be pensive, or work up a sweat I’ve never really been much of a guy’s guy, read, listen to music, do hard, sweat-inducing a man’s man or any of those buddy-buddy solitary chores like wood chopping. Hell, I things a man is supposed to be. I learned to be even love watering the flowers. a loner when I was a kid and the lesson never All of those things you can do alone. The current circulation of the Anishinabek News is 7,000 copies, with 6,000 mailed and 1,000 really left me. I always felt better and safer on There’s no one to miss, no one else’s thoughts distributed at various events. my own to consider, no one else’s agenda to satisfy. Plus, I was never drawn to most of the Loners understand the sanctity of those mo- things a guy learns to do. I never learned how ments – but the truth is that we’re not true lon- DEADLINE FOR to tinker with an engine, never learned to use ers. It’s just a label we learned to apply. MARCH power tools, never really developed an appetite I cherish the moments I spend with my guy for the NFL or NASCAR. When I quit drink- friends. I love the fact that I live with a beauti- ing beer, well, that was about all she wrote. ful woman and that we have a host of great Advertising and Richard Wagamese News submissions: I found it hard being around men. I’m pen- and wonderful people in our life. I love that as FEBRUARY 20 sive. I give things a lot of thought. I consider much as I love the moments I am alone, happy my position on things. So it made it really hard loner too. with all of it. For more information or inquiries to the Anishinabek to fall into banter, chat or good-old-boy small The truth is that there are a lot of us out News related to advertising and circulation issues there. Loners seldom advertise. Others might please call our Toll-free number: 1-800-463-6408 talk, or the little lies and tall tales we tell each other. not be as cozy as I am in my solitude but there www.anishinabeknews.ca are still a lot of guys who value their privacy The funny thing about being a loner is that Richard Wagamese is Ojibway from Wabase- you always think that you’re the only one. and the comfort of their own thoughts at their own time. mong First Nation in Northwestern Ontar- ISSN 1182-3178 Anishinabek News (Print) Hence, the word loner, I suppose. But you nev- I like walking. I like being able to set out io. His latest book, Him Standing, is avail- ISSN 1923-0710 Anishinabek News (Online) er really think that there’s anyone else like you able in stores now. Trade Paperback ISBN Canada Post Customer #1905929 on the land and just be, with only the dog for and so you never search out anybody who’s a 1459801768 Agreement #0040011021 company. A lot of guys are like that. I like to January-February 2014 Anishinabek News Page 5 Maanda ndinendam /Opinion Indigenous peoples take lead in protecting earth MONTREAL – One of the world’s trying to take the lead in destroy- foremost thinkers says Indigenous ing the possibility of decent sur- peoples are taking the lead in try- vival: that’s what it means to ex- ing to protect the earth from man- ploit the tar sands, and the gold made environmental assaults. mining in Colombia, and coal Noam Chomsky, the celebrat- mining, and so on…. That means ed 85-year old American linguist, destroying the world in which peace activist and social critic your grandchildren might be able who is the author of more than to survive: that’s the Canadian 100 books and the world’s most idea now.” frequently-quoted intellectual, Chomsky added that “There is was in Montréal to help celebrate resistance: in Canada it’s coming the fiftieth anniversary of the mag- from First Nations. But it’s worth azine Canadian Dimension. remembering that that’s a world- During his Oct. 26 visit, wide phenomenon. Throughout Chomsky delivered a lecture at the the world, the indigenous popula- Université de Montréal in which tions are in the lead. They are ac- he analyzed the decline of Ameri- tually taking the lead in trying to can power. protect the earth. That’s extremely In the Western hemisphere, he significant.” argued, the U.S. and Canada have Chomsky argued that this re- become marginal to the major dis- sistance is supported by one of Noam Chomsky cussions now underway: only in the most ancient documents of “What Canada and the US and Brunswick or tar sands in Alberta “highlighted indigenous opposi- the most vulnerable countries like English law, the nearly 800-year others are doing now,” he added, and trying to destroy the environ- tion to the Alberta tar sands, the Haiti and Honduras have US- and old Magna Carta. For in addition “is trying to take away what is left ment as fast as possible, with bare- oil deposit that is Canada’s fastest Canadian-supported military re- to asserting civil rights like the of the commons, includ[ing] the ly a question raised about what the growing source of carbon emis- gimes taken power. presumption of innocence and the global environment—privatize it, world will look like as a result.” sions and is slated for massive ex- Chomsky also spoke out force- right to jury trial, the Magna Carta take it away.” Chomsky praised Canada’s pansion despite attracting interna- fully against Canadian tar sands, included a “Charter of the For- While in Montréal, Chomsky First Nations people for taking tional criticism and protest.” shale gas, and mining develop- ests,” which “had to do with pro- gave an interview to Martin Lu- the lead in resisting fossil fuel de- In Chomsky’s own words, ments, and underlined the impor- tecting the commons”—all of the kacs of The Guardian in which he velopments and thereby combat- “It’s pretty ironic that the so- tance of indigenous resistance to commonly-shared things in nature again denounced the Harper gov- ing climate change. He expressed called ‘least advanced’ people are the devastation they are causing. that sustain human life—“from ernment’s policies of developing concern for the Elsipogtog people the ones taking the lead in try- According to Chomsky, “Ca- the depredations of power.” tar sands and shale gas resources. in New Brunswick, whose peace- ing to protect all of us, while the nadian mining operations are Since the development of Harper’s policies, he told Lu- ful blockade of shale gas explora- richest and most powerful among just destroying large parts of the capitalism, Chomsky said, the kacs, mean “taking every drop of tion was assaulted by the RCMP us are the ones who are trying to world.” He said that “Canada is commons have been under attack. hydrocarbon out of the ground, earlier in October. drive the society to destruction.” whether it’s shale gas in New As Lukacs writes, he also

Dropping Chief Wahoo is big step forward

By Ian Campeau sey sleeves. ​And we're still being Ottawa region, The Nepean Red- jovial, stereotypical idea of what CBC News stereotyped and labelled as "Indi- skins, changed its name after a an “Indian” looks like though a The Cleveland Indians are ans" by the organization. They’re three-year social media campaign colonial lens. dropping Chief Wahoo as their still exploiting us for non-indige- to have the team name retired. It Changing the logo isn’t the primary logo. nous profit by using the name. It’s wasn’t until the Human Rights full desired result of ending so- It's a gigantic step in the right still robbing us of our individual Commission was invoked that cially acceptable racial oppres- direction to retire the extremely nationhood. a team for children as young as sion. But the fact that Cleveland racist caricatured depiction of a Until the team name is changed four switched its racially offensive dropped Chief Wahoo without the First Nation person. to something that doesn't margin- name to the Nepean Eagles. same pressure that was needed to I believe this is a preemptive alize by race, it will continue to The Indians dropped Chief change the Washington Redskins move by the Cleveland Major receive criticism. Wahoo without being in the hot name is a great sign that times are League Baseball organization in A social media campaign and seat. changing for the better. Ian Campeau response to the pressure that the pressure from Campeau's hu- It’s as if the Cleveland baseball cutting-edge electronic music. An Washington NFL organization has man rights complaint against use organization is seeing a shift in the Ian Campeau, also known as Anishinaabe from Nipissing First received over the past year. of "Redskins" mascot and name times and taking the necessary Deejay NDN, is part of the Otta- Nation, Campeau is a known ac- It's a good move, and in the spurred the Nepean minor football precautions to ensure their brand wa-based trio A Tribe Called Red. tivist for indigenous rights. He right direction, but for now the club to re-think its brand.(CBC) will survive under the camouflage The band mixes traditional pow- often tweets the #changethename logo will remain on caps and jer- The youth football team in the of a stylized “C” — instead of a wow vocals and drumming with Twitter hashtag. Page 6 Anishinabek News January-February 2014 Community Profile: Red Rock Indian Band Renovated lodge key element of business plans By Rick Garrick nomic development plans. The Red Rock Indian Band is “We feel this can be a very looking to benefit from a recently- good business,” Pelletier says. announced suspension bridge proj- “Years ago people would come and ect by opening the Chalet Lodge spend a week here. Long term we for business. will have boat rentals and fishing “The bridge (they) are building guides.” here is going to be a one-of-a-kind Re-elected as chief in Septem- in Canada,” says Red Rock Coun- ber after a two-year hiatus, Pelle- cillor Omer Belisle about the $106 tier is focusing on economic devel- million four-year bridge project on opment and job creation. Highway 11/17. “It’s going to be a “We’re going to be job-focused stopper for tourism, so the Chalet to get the people working,” Pelleti- Lodge plays ideally right in that er says. “We’re going to create our location.” own source of revenue. Without The Robinson Superior com- our own source of revenue, we are munity, located about 120 kilome- just going to exist under the thumb tres east of Thunder Bay, plans to of INAC (Aboriginal Affairs and renovate five of the lodge’s cabins Northern Development Canada). to accommodate bridge construc- This way here, we are going to tion workers during the four-year look at creating our own so the construction period. Ten new cab- band will flourish.” ins will also be built in the future. Red Rock is currently planning “The accommodation avail- to build a new business complex- Economic development officer Mandy Perkles stands beside a community monument made from a slab of Ruby ability between Nipigon and here is band office on Highway 11 and is Lake marble. Red Rock is looking into potential business opportunities at the Ruby Lake marble quarry, located almost zero,” Belisle says. “There also looking into the feasibility of about six kilometres southwest of the community. is nothing out there you can rent operating the Ruby Lake marble “We’re getting a lot of commu- office in Thunder Bay and we own to the southwest. or buy, so the faster we can build quarry, which is located about six nity involvement and people are one here in Nipigon. And we own “We’ve had very good suc- these cabins up and get them insu- kilometres south-east of the com- getting excited to see things hap- an office building in Red Rock (a cess,” Belisle says, noting com- lated and heated, the better.” munity. pening,” Pelletier says. “With the town located about 20 kilometres munity members who work in law, In addition to renovating the “It was recommended that we new band office coming, I think west of the Red Rock reserve).” education, medicine and policing. cabins, the community of about drill another two to three holes to it’s going to really stimulate the Hicknell says there were a lot “There are some that fall by the 350 on-reserve and 1,350 off- ensure that viability is there,” says band to join together and move of hardships in the community wayside, and that is our job as reserve citizens plans to renovate Red Rock Councillor Kristine Bac- ahead.” when she was growing up. chief and council to address the in- and open the Chalet Lodge restau- car about the quarry. “We (have Red Rock had previously “We just didn’t go out any adequacies that we have and how rant for business. since) received a call from an inter- entered into the office leasing place - we stayed close to home,” we are going to get these children “We’re upgrading our restau- ested buyer for some of the surface business by providing Dilico Hicknell says. “But now there is through school with an education rant to commercial capacity and (marble) at the top of the quarry. Anishinabek Family Care with hockey in Nipigon, curling. There level that they can work with and we know people are waiting to use He is asking for about 40 tons of accommodations at the former are a lot of things that our people be independent.” that too,” says Red Rock Council- that marble that is already there.” Elks Hall in Nipigon in 2008 and get into now. Most of our grand- Red Rock has 950 acres of re- lor Ed Wawia. “I think with just The community also acquired the former Heath Park School in children now play hockey and they serve land, which includes Parm- our people alone we will be able to 660 acres of land situated on the Thunder Bay in 2010. go out to play in Marathon and Red acheene Reserve 53 and Lake Hel- run a restaurant.” far side of Highway 17 next to “There is a lot of pride in Rock.” en Reserve 53A. The community Red Rock bought the 22-acre the Nipigon River after signing an our community now — we own Red Rock currently has about currently has about 100 houses, Chalet Lodge property in 2008 agreement in 2011 for economic things,” says Frances Hicknell, 60 elementary and 30 secondary with three built over the past two and has since been working to get losses stemming from an Ontario who has lived in the community students attending school in Nipi- years. it transferred to the reserve. Origi- Hydro development. since the 1950s. “We own a Dilico gon, located about three kilometres nally built by a railway company in the 1920s and later operated as a tourist resort, the lodge is located adjacent to the southwest corner of the reserve. “The area is so beautiful — I don’t think there is another spot like this overlooking Lake Helen and the Nipigon River,” Wawia says. “When I was a kid, they had 38 cabins here at one time and they were always full.” Wawia says the five cabins were built with the same high- quality materials as the main lodge building. “They’re exactly the same as the inside of the main lodge,” Wawia says. “They’re all made of B.C. fir and they have hardwood floors. Each cabin right now just has a sink and a toilet; we’re going to add a shower to each cabin so they will be self-sufficient.” Red Rock Chief Pierre Pelle- tier says the lodge is going to be Chief Pierre Pelletier is focusing on economic development and job creation during his latest term as chief. Here he speaks to community members the “hub” of the community’s eco- during a Christmas gathering in the Chalet Lodge. January-February 2014 Anishinabek News Page 7

Justice system worst place for FASD-affected By Leslie Knibbs SUDBURY – People affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and finding themselves caught up in the justice system just want to get the hell out of where they are. Lawyer Jonathan Rudin, Pro- gram Director with Aboriginal Le- gal Services of Toronto (ALST), was describing the scenario for participants in his workshop at the Curve Lake First Nation contributes to Peterborough Regional Health Centre. From left: Curve Lake FN Dec. 3-5, 2013 Anishinabek G7 Councillor Keith Knott; Curve Lake FN Councillor Arnold Taylor; CEO Peterborough Regional Health Centre, “Circle of Hope” conference. Lesley Heighway; Curve Lake FN Chief Phyllis Williams; Manager, Major Gifts Peterborough Regional “Court is the worst place for Health Centre Foundation, Steven Macdonald; Curve Lake FN Councillor Shane Taylor. an FASD affected individual.” According to Rudin, an FASD individual facing interrogation or Cancer care now closer to home court will do anything to get out of the situation they find them- By Melissa Dokis diagnosis and treatment.” selves in, whether it be making a PETERBOROUGH – A contribution from Curve The Jigiigemgak Aatsag or “healing room” is false confession during interroga- Lake First Nation helped make radiation treatment a semi-private patient room for patients receiving tion or pleading guilty in court to available for the first time at Peterborough Regional cancer treatment and was dedicated on Dec. 4 in Jonathan Rudin something they did not do. Lack Health Centre. honour of the Curve Lake contribution. The dedi- “The support of Curve Lake First Nation was cation included a smudge, songs and blessings from of executive function of the brain was “easily led”, he said putting vital to the success of our campaign,” said Lesley First Nation Elders. or making good judgement is a these two inmates in the same cell Heighway, president and CEO of the hospital’s Chief Phyllis Williams added, “We are so very problem for an FASD affected was one of the sparks that set off foundation. “Your donation not only helped us pro- proud of Curve Lake’s support to the health centre’s person. a near riot at the Sault facility two vide the bulk of the funding required to build the Cancer Care and the Closer to Home campaign. Rudin said there is no evi- years ago. facility, it supported vital investments in laboratory This means that ones with cancer care needs from dence to suggest FASD is more When Rudin asked that all and surgical equipment used in treating cancer. our community have ability to access care in nearby prevalent in the Aboriginal com- lawyers in his workshop stand up, “We were so pleased to have the opportunity to Peterborough without the burden of travelling dis- munity. He praised the fact Ab- the only one standing was Rudin meet with Chief Phyllis Williams and councillors in tant places for treatment. This will be relief to them original communities are taking himself. Other than Mark, the December for a room dedication celebrating your and their families.” the lead in public education about corrections officer and some Ru- gift. It was a wonderful testament to your invest- FASD. din's staff from Toronto, there was ment in ensuring patients from across our region Melissa Dokis is Intergovernmental Relations When an Aboriginal woman no one from the justice system continue to have access to timely, accurate cancer Officer for Curve Lake First Nation. who is pregnant goes to her doc- present at the conference. tor, he said, the first question asked is “Have you been drinking since you became pregnant?” He stressed this is never asked of a non-Native woman. “Canada does not have the ca- pacity to diagnose new babies to- day (for FASD), and is constantly falling further behind (in diagnos- ing newborns).” He noted that all treatment programs dealing with FASD individuals in the criminal jus- tice system are cognitive-based, thereby compounding the prob- lem since an FASD-affected in- dividual cannot pick up on cues, and has difficulty following rules. This dilemma can lead to an ac- cused not following probation conditions and inevitably lead to breaches bringing the affected in- dividual back to court and in some cases, to jail. A former corrections officer, identifying himself as “Mark”, re- inforced Rudin’s presentation. Now living in Batchewana First Nation, Mark worked for many years in the now-closed maximum-security penitentiary in Kingston. He eventually took a job in the Sault Ste. Marie Deten- tion Centre, and shared a story of For more information contact your local health unit. an FASD affected individual who ended up double bunking with a recent transfer from a federal maximum security facility. Noting that the FASD inmate Page 8 Anishinabek News January-February 2014 Mno-bmaadziwin/Healthy Living

Student Jillian Smith and Nutrition Planner Kat Monague. Nutritious school meals eaten up By Sharon Weatherall works together with its local parishes and churches. Puffing on those dirty, BEAUSOLEIL FN – Christian Island Elementary The connection between the two schools was cre- School (CIES) children will benefit from two nutri- ated two years ago through Christian Island United tious meals served up at school. Church pastoral minister Teresa Burnett-Cole and stinko poison sticks Thanks to donations of two freezers – one filled ESS Principal Susan Turner. with meat, and shelves filled with non-perishable Christian Island principal Angela Johnson says By Albert Dumont food items – an existing 'daily' breakfast program the first year ESS's High Needs Class Project in- I was a big smoker at one time. Started out with Export A in my has expanded to include hot lunches twice a week. volved making and selling fleece tie blankets with teen years, then switched to Player’s Filter in my early twenties. Puffed Nutrition Planner Kathleen Monague, a par- proceeds going toward CIES literacy resources. on at least 32 of the poison sticks each and every day of the week. What ticipant on Season 8 of the APTN show 'Cooking Fleece tie blankets are two fleece blankets tied to- did I get out of it? Nothing good, I’ll tell you that. I remember when I with the Wolfman', says the numbers of students at- gether to make a double thick blanket. vowed to kiss John Player and his disgusting weed goodbye once and tending meals at the school recently has multiplied "The recent donations of two freezers - one filled for all. greatly. with meat from a butcher in the Erindale commu- An elderly lady I respected greatly had passed away from an illness "Our Breakfast Club started with 12 kids and we nity, and included 12 large shelves to stock the non- brought on from smoking. Her body was found sitting in her favorite are now serving 40. Feedback has been very posi- perishable food items. There were added extras like armchair, a cigarette, yet to be lit, rested between her fore and middle tive. The kids eat it all up until there is none left. hockey equipment, skates, books and coats as well," fingers, her right hand held a “Bic” lighter. On the table near the body Every morning I do brainteasers with them said Johnson. a freshly opened large pack of cigarettes, full minus one, sat atop a and the winners are rewarded with snacks and hot "A Ford Dealership from that area donated trucks glass ashtray. chocolate. Kids who like to come and help out are to bring the majority of the items over to Christian I heard the news and went to pay my respects. At the funeral home rewarded as well. Island. It was a substantial donation, some of which one of her relatives asked me if I wanted the cigarettes found near the "We provide hot lunches on Tuesdays and Thurs- went to the island food bank and the Adult Educa- old girl’s corpse. I took the cigarettes and standing beside the coffin days for all students but the service is mainly di- tion Program on the island." I requested that she (the deceased) help me to quit smoking. “I know rected to students with no lunch. The hot meal may Johnson says prior to the starting of the school you wanted to quit yourself,” I said, “but could not do it. From the consist of stews, chicken soup, mac-and-cheese and breakfast program a couple of years ago, staff tried world where you are now you can help me find the strength to give up other nutritious foods." to make do by having muffins and the fruit available cigarettes.” The generous donation of meat and food was to give those students who were hungry in the morn- The cigarettes in the package the dead lady unwrapped in the made by Erindale Secondary School ing. A nutritious meal in a child's stomach improves few seconds before her death were the last cigarettes I ever smoked. (ESS) of Peel District School Board which both attention for learning and behaviour in class. The lady who could not find the motivation to stop smoking herself, obliged me my request. The spirit world is a powerful place. Never, ever, doubt it! To tie an elastic cord around my ankle and then jump off a high cliff is a big thing of foolishness to me. But even more crazy is the thought of putting the end of a wrapped, smoldering, chemical-filled, tobacco stick into my mouth and willingly drawing poisons into my lungs. How could I do that and still claim to be sane? Cigarettes are not cool, they’re nonsense! I smoked for many, many years. If I got a buzz from a cigarette it must have been pretty minute, ‘cause I have no memory of any joy or feelings of Shangri-La I received from them. I do remember coughing like hell in the morning and getting winded almost to the point of fall- ing over after running a hundred feet. Smoking is a nasty addiction. I recall after smoking, bringing my hand up to my face to scratch my nose and smelling my nicotine cov- ered fingers. Stinko!!!! To my friends who smoke I ask: “Have you ever taken even 10 minutes out of your life to ponder the catastrophic damage smoking can do to your health?” I quit smoking about 15 years ago. The three weeks after my last cigarette were not good. But it wasn’t so bad after that and I was good to go in short order. Today, I wonder how it came to be that I was so foolish as to ever begin smoking in the first place. I talked with a friend the other day who said, “In this world every- thing begins with money.” Maybe it does today, but there was a time in the past where everything began with tobacco. Tobacco was not associated with death in those days. It was con- nected to the good life. It was offered onto the forest floor for the pipes of our long dead ancestors. It was given into the rapids of the Great River as a gift so our journey on the river of life would be a good one. When we wanted assurance that a promise or commitment would be kept, we brought tobacco into the circle. Fire could only be made Santa’s helpers in Whitefish River sacred when tobacco was placed into it. Somewhere along history’s Students at Shawanosowe School in Whitefish River First Nation collected food and toys to help Santa in his pathway, abuse of tobacco became rampant. Christmas deliveries. Wesley McGregor and Raine Assiniwe helped Community Health Worker Doreen Jacko Too bad, too bad indeed! gather gifts. – Photo by Peggy Monague-McGregor January-February 2014 Anishinabek News Page 9 Nishnaabewin/Culture Tikinaagan her research tool By Greg Macdougall OTTAWA – Alexandra Nahwe- gahbow began her PhD studies at Carleton University in Septem- ber, only three days after defend- ing her Masters' thesis. Her academic focus has been on the place of children in pre- colonial Indigenous communities, as seen through the lens of the tikinaagan or traditional cradle- board. Nahwegahbow’s grandmother had recently passed on at the time she began her graduate studies. “It really affected me, and I think that's what drew me towards this sort of work, looking at the roles of kids and how important it is to listen to children, the way that she always did, and to look at the different traditional values that surrounded parenting, com- Alex Nahwegahbow making notes. munity and family.” based is in the territory of n'Daki out trepidation – she wanted to She hopes that her work helps Menan in northeastern Ontario ensure she wasn't repeating the people understand how impor- on Bear Island, the homeland of problematic ways many academic tant these traditional Anishinabek the Teme-Augama Anishnabai researchers interact with Indig- values are, how children were (Temagami First Nation). enous communities to which they held sacred at the centre of the She felt drawn to a tikinaagan have no personal connection, and community. It also examines the from Temagami she found at the that her work would actually be Nimkii Osawamick, Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve, impact of settler-colonialism, in Canadian Museum of Civiliza- of benefit to the community and demonstrates hoop dancing. particular the devastating effects tion in Gatineau during the first more broadly. of residential schools and also year of her Masters studies. It was With her PhD, Nahwegahbow, the broader clash between Euro- collected in 1913 by anthropolo- 27, aims to continue working with pean and Indigenous perspectives gist Frank Speck, and she really material culture, historical objects Nimkii danced in his towards the role of children and wanted to learn more about it and that were made for children and parenting. its context. childcare, to examine their con- Nahwegahbow is a citizen of After initial exploratory re- textual power and the stories they mother’s womb Whitefish River First Nation, but search, she approached members have to teach us today. By Christine Smith McFarlane the community where her study is of the community, but not with- Full story on anishinabeknews.ca TORONTO – Nimkii Osawamick is 22 years old, but the Wik- wemikong performing artist says he’s been dancing longer than that. “I have been dancing since I was three years old, even though I believe I have been dancing since I was inside my mother’s womb. Dancing has been a way for me to stay out of trouble, and be on a good Teachings help employability path in life.” Osawamick was invited to teach a dance workshop at the Southern M’CHIGEENG FN – Participants in the Kenjgewin Youth in Motion (SYiM) initiative, a youth-led and art-based initia- Teg Educational Institute’s A.I.M.S. program have tive which is a part of the Mamow Sha-way-gi-kay-win: North-South nothing but praise for the 12-week job-readiness ini- Partnership for Children. tiative. Three dozen participants, ages ranged from 16-24, and youth came “The program taught me that there will always from Kingston, Oshawa, Oakville, Mississauga, Toronto, Thunder be challenges in life and it’s our attitude that will Bay, Keewaywin, Wapekeka, Fort Hope, Webequie, Deer Lake, Nes- determine whether we rise above the challenges and kantaga and Kasabonika. look for the positive gifts within them,” says Dante Mamow Sha-way-gi-kay-win has been a registered Canadian char- Danville. “ I also learned that our culture is at the ity since 2010, but since 2007 has been building supportive and long- centre of our core and determines our strong Anishi- term relationships between southern-based organizations and First Na- naabe pride.” tions people and communities in Northern Ontario. Dante completed A.I.M.S. – which stands for What started as an advocacy campaign to raise awareness about Anishinabek Identity, Mind and Spirit – which is de- the living conditions of First Nations in Northern Ontario has now signed to improve the overall confidence, skills, and Dante Danville April McDowell grown into a place for youth from the North and South to come to- employability for 100 Aboriginal adults between 18- looking for a positive change in my life gether, share their experiences, and learn from one another through the 45 years old in the Manitoulin region over a two and “The program taught me to accept myself for arts. The program is based on the belief that using art as a vehicle for half year period. who I am. It gave me a sense of belonging and a self-expression provides a platform for youth to discuss the challenges Beverly Roy-Carter, Kenjgewin Teg’s director peace of mind as our classroom became a family of they face, and also share their goals, dreams and aspirations with their of business and training, says the first critical part sorts as we laughed and shared funny stories. peers. of the A.I.M.S. program focuses upon nurturing the “I’m in a much better place within myself as I Osawamick’s dance workshop focused not only on hoop dancing inner spirit, sense of identity and belonging of each now feel more confident that I can walk away from but also teaching basic pow-wow steps, drum teachings, motion mean- and every one of the students. the old negative behaviours that dragged me down.” ings and what Osawamick has learned about the origins of dance. “By creating a solid foundation within a support- April McDowell is remaining as a part-time “Teaching this dance workshop today is my first opportunity with ive learning environment and with newfound per- A.I.M.S. participant to upgrade the math skills re- this initiative to share the gifts I’ve been given along my journey,” said sonal direction and confidence, students will then quired for her to obtain her GED. Osawamick, a performing dance artist and actor who is currently run- be better prepared for the mechanics of academic A full-time student with Sheridan College ning his own business promoting Native Awareness called DNA Stage. learning,” she says. through Contact North, she was sponsored by Mani- Other activities involved in the two-day showcase included visual For the A.I.M.S. program, as part of skills de- doo Mnising Training and Employment which is the arts, beading, and photography workshops, each of which were co- velopment, a key outcome for students is the com- starting point for a career in IT. facilitated by southern and northern artists. pletion of a Grade 12 or Grade 12 equivalency, in- “One of the most important aspects of my learn- “I think it’s really awesome that there is a place like the SYiM cluding GED or the Academic Career and Entrance ing was the teaching from the Elders on the impor- North-South Partnership for Children,” said Osawamick. “It’s pretty program. tance of our traditions within our culture: the drum important for our youth today to have something like this, to have a Dante Danville is returning specifically to obtain teaching, the Clan teachings, smudging and espe- chance to express themselves through the arts. I am also getting into his GED certificate. cially the Treaties. They really impacted me and the same things, so this is good to see.” “When I first heard about the A.I.M.S.program, I gave me such a clear understanding of my identity The highlight of the two-day showcase was a re-naming ceremony knew I needed to learn more about what it offered,” as an Anishinaabe kwe which I continue to pass onto in which participants collaborated on a proposal to call SYiM “Four he says. “ As soon as I walked in the door, I real- my children. I finally felt like I fit in.” Directions Youth in Action”. ized that this was the program I had to join. I was Full story on www.anishinabeknews.ca Page 10 Anishinabek News January-February 2014

Survivor kept story from daughter By Barb Nahwegahbow or culture within her family. TORONTO – Krystine Abel She returned to school as learned about residential schools a mature student because, “… at high school, not at home from that was the safest place to go her mother Eve, who herself was and learn about my history,” she a survivor. said. It was there she began to Krystine Abel of M’Chigeeng A citizen of M’Chigeeng First understand both the collective First Nation speaking at From Nation who grew up in Toronto, and personal effects of Residen- Remembrance to Reconciliation Abel joined a panel of activists tial School and colonization. One Community Dialogue in Toronto, to talk about reconciliation at a area where she was personally November 12. Toronto event titled “From Re- impacted by her mother’s nega- membrance to Reconciliation – A tive experiences, she said, was of the Truth and Reconciliation John Fox, supporter Lesley Belleau and lawyer Saadia Ali Bokhari Shared Community Dialogue on with her own education. She Commission, expressed his belief at Toronto Police 33 Division for Nov. 21st meeting about death of Our Roles as Treaty Peoples.” dropped out in high school and, that reconciliation would not be John’s daughter, Cheyenne. About 150 people attended “…my mom didn’t try and keep achieved in his lifetime, but, “We the event, which was organized me in school,” she said. have to start doing something by the Ontario Human Rights The opportunity to learn about about it today. And it begins by Commission, the Ontario Council her mother’s Residential School recognizing the truth of this story, Police admit they’re of Agencies Serving Immigrants experience came when they were by understanding the impact of and the Metro Toronto Chinese filmed for a video earlier this this legacy and by doing some- and Southeast Asian Clinic. The year. “I know it was difficult for thing about it.” part of problem objective was to build solidarity her to do,” said Krystine, “and it Former AFN National Chief By Barb Nahwegahbow between communities of colour was great to have a dialogue with Phil Fontaine, a residential school TORONTO – Police have admitted to John Fox that they might be part and Indigenous peoples. her about something that affected survivor, and Ontario Human of the “systemic failing” in finding the truth about his daughter’s death, Stephen Harper’s Residen- her as a child.” The video titled, Rights Commissioner Barbara and have suggested the family request a coroner’s inquest. tial School apology in 2008, said “Mother and Daughter: Inter- Hall also spoke about the need for At a Nov. 21 meeting at 33 Division Headquarters, Staff Inspector Abel, made her realize she had to generational Effects of Residen- dialogue between Indigenous and Tony Riviere and four detectives met with Fox to discuss their inves- reconcile her place in Toronto and tial School “, was produced by non-Indigenous peoples. tigation into the April tragedy when 20-year old Cheyenne Fox fell to in Canada as an Aboriginal wom- the Union of Ontario Indians and Among those in the audience her death from a 24th floor condo. an. Like many inter-generational is available for viewing on You- were Abel’s mother Eve, and Police told Fox his daughter’s death was a tragic event that likely survivors, Krystine Abel didn’t Tube. M’Chigeeng Chief Joe Hare and could have been prevented, and that there was, “…a failing systemi- learn about First Nations history Justice Murray Sinclair, Chair his wife Susan. cally within the system,” and the Toronto Police might be a part of that failing. “What’s going on with Aboriginal folks,” said Insp. Riviere, “is not just in the city of Toronto. It’s part of a larger problem.” Healing lodges in short supply Riviere said he’d met with the Aboriginal Consultative Committee, a group comprised of Aboriginal community members whose job is to By Libby Chisholm advise the Toronto Police Chief. NORTH BAY – Local casework- “I know there’s some valid concerns about investigations,” said ers agree that Correctional Servic- Riviere, “lack of investigations, lack of thorough investigations. I es Canada has been falling short know there’s a lot of valid concerns being expressed on a daily basis of its role providing for the reha- with respect to, particularly, Aboriginal communities…” bilitation of Aboriginal inmates. In the three-hour meeting, police provided Fox details of Chey- “We can turn a blind eye and enne’s last day and her last hours in the condo. Police will not divulge pretend, but it’s not okay,” says the condo owner’s name who, according to police, met her for the first Maggie LaRochelle, the Aborigi- time that night. Fox said he was upset that police were treating the nal Court Worker at the North Bay condo owner as a victim. The condo owner is viewed by police as a Indian Friendship Centre. “Heal- trauma victim because of his alleged failed attempt to save Cheyenne ing lodges are important, and we from falling. need more of them.” In his annual report issued in According to the condo owner, at one point shortly after she ar- Tipi and sweat lodge at North Bay Jail. – Photo by Diane Tregunna June, Howard Sapers, Correction- rived, Cheyenne wanted to leave but he blocked the door. This may sensitive environments with a ho- size of North Bay. have caused Cheyenne to retreat to the balcony, the only other exit. al Investigator for Canada, de- tailed the failure of Correctional listic approach to rehabilitation. Maggie LaRochelle says there The man told police he did this because he wanted the police to remove In Ontario, they are modeled on are currently only six healing her and called 911. Services Canada in multiple areas, including the overcrowding of Anishinaabe cultural teachings, lodges operating in Ontario. Fox has made repeated unsuccessful requests for the address where and participants are given access “None of which are in North his daughter died. Woman’s rights advocate Lesley Belleau, who ac- prisons, longer prison sentences with too much time spent in cells, to healing ceremonies including Bay,” she notes. "It is unfortu- companied Fox to the Nov. 21 meeting, said the family wanted to do a smudging and sweat lodges. nate that North Bay doesn't have ceremony for Cheyenne at the place where she lost her life. and lack of capacity development for rehabilitative programming. Karen Labreche, Native In- enough facilities to satisfy our The police concluded that Cheyenne Fox took her own life, based mate Liaison Officer for the North needs. Prisoners who get refer- on the evidence. They said they were aware she was suicidal in the Sapers pointed specifically to the failure of Correctional Ser- Bay Jail, says that healing lodges rals to culturally-relevant healing past. Belleau said this was a label often attached to Aboriginal women such as Enaahtig North in Alban – lodges have to be sent elsewhere." and women in the sex trade. vices in working with Aboriginal communities to provide access about two hours’ drive from North There is a 21-day rehabilita- Insp. Riviere said a coroner’s inquest addresses issues on a larger Bay – “are intensive programs that tion program in North Bay, but it level and often drives changes to be made within the larger system, to cultural healing programs and community release planning for help inmates reconnect with parts is not an Aboriginal-led, cultur- whether it’s the Toronto Police, social services or the federal govern- they’ve lost. They are hungry for ally- relevant initiative. ment. It takes a more comprehensive approach that identifies what Aboriginal inmates. Although a law was passed in these programs.” In his June report, Howard measures would prevent similar tragedies. She says that the majority of Sapers said “We’re not asking for Questions remain for Fox and his supporters. 1992 to encourage these changes to the prison system, Sapers said prisoners she works with are do- the law to change, we’re asking Based on evidence gathered by the police, Cheyenne was intoxi- ing time because of either poverty for the law to be implemented.” cated at the time of her death and acting irrationally. Given this fact, that “in the last 20 years Correc- tional Services Canada has only or addiction. “The symptoms are was her death an accident and not suicide? Fox said he will discuss the the drugs and alcohol, and we Libby Chisholm, originally from possibility of a coroner’s inquest with his lawyer, Saadia Ali Bokhari been able to conclude four agree- ments for healing lodges. Those need to deal with the problems. North Bay, completed a Bach- who also accompanied him to the Nov. 21st meeting. These programs need training in elor of Arts Honours degree in It was the rallies against the Toronto Police for their lack of action agreements have only created 68 beds, and that’s only enough to childhood traumas.” Anthropology at the University in his daughter’s death, he said, that finally triggered their investiga- deal with 2% of the incarcerated Labreche says it’s disappoint- of Guelph. She has written for tion. If it wasn’t for the demonstrations, he said, they would have done ing that Aboriginal prisoners don’t papers including the Upstream nothing. Fox is concerned about two other Aboriginal women who Aboriginal population”. Healing lodges are culturally- have access to recommended re- Journal and is currently doing have died in Toronto last year under suspicious circumstances. habilitation services in a city the freelance writing in Victoria, B.C. January-February 2014 Anishinabek News Page 11

Chippewa settle land claim after 200 years By Greg Plain be surveyed and set aside for the LONDON, Ont. – It took the bet- Chippewas’ exclusive use, ac- ter part of 200 years, but Canada cording to Longwoods Treaty has finally settled a claim involv- talks between 1818 and 1822. ing lands sold without the knowl- This land was sold off by the edge of the Chippewas of the Crown in the 1830s without the Thames. consent of the Chippewas of the “This agreement closes a Thames First Nation. long and painful chapter for our “This historic settlement is a Nation,” said Chief Joe Miskoko- major step forward on a path of mon during the Dec. 9 ceremony renewal and reconciliation,” said formally ratifying the Big Bear Indian Affairs Minister Bernard Creek land claim agreement. Valcourt, who represented the “Through perseverance and hard Crown in Canada at the official work we managed to negotiate signing ceremony. “Through the the best possible agreement for negotiations we found a win-win our children’s future. Chippewa solution that delivers on both past now has an opportunity to utilize commitments and opens up new the settlement to move forward economic opportunities for the and implement economic and ed- First Nation.” ucation strategies to revitalize our The negotiated settlement was Nation and create a life of pride voted on by the Chippewas of the Indian Affairs Minister Bernard Valcourt and Chief Joe Miskokomon after ceremony concluding Big Bear and prosperity for the Chippewa Thames membership on March Creek agreement. People.” 23. Citizens approved the agree- The specific claim stems from ment, along with the First Na- compensation for past damages Chief Miskokomon has indi- Settlement funds will also be the sale of Chippewa lands near tions plans for the management of resulting from the claim. The cated the First Nation is pursuing used for a program of monthly Florence, Ontario by the British its settlement funds. First Nation now has the ability possible economic opportuni- pension supplements to elders, Government of Upper Canada Under the settlement, Canada to purchase 5,120 acres of land, ties – including an industrial park and to establish an education in the 1830s. The reserve that agreed to provide the First Na- which will be processed through – with the neighbouring city of fund. was near Big Bear Creek was to tion with nearly $120 million in the federal Additions to Reserve. London. Understanding each other brings peaceful solutions By Sharon Weatherall Monague says the first contact started in 2008, after municipal ORILLIA – Jeff Monague says between native people and settlers officials decided to build a mega education – getting to know and in central Ontario was made by waste disposal above a pure-water learn about each other – is the best Samuel de Champlain in the early aquifer without any consultation way to resolve First Nations is- 1600’s, when the French started to with First Nations in the area. sues and disputes peacefully. trade and make the first informal When he was Beausoleil Chief That is how four First Nation agreements and treaties. 18 years earlier, Monague said the communities came to an under- “In 1830 Coldwater Narrows development of the dump would standing with government to set- was the first reserve in Canada impact fishing and poison the tle the Coldwater Narrows dispute and our people were placed in the water. Nearly two decades later and negotiate $300 million for Coldwater region. During 1830- Beausoleil women joined area lands that were taken from them 38 our people lived a nomadic farmers to stop the dump through in the 1800’s. lifestyle and the government was peaceful protesting, rallies and One of five presenters in the having a hard time keeping them ceremonies. 2013 Aboriginal Speakers Series in one spot. At the time they were “They invited the farmers to hosted by Orillia`s Lakehead Uni- trying to integrate Indians into the become involved so everyone got versity campus, , Monague, Eagle population to eliminate them – we Jeff Monague, Beausoleil First Nation, spoke about land claim, dump to know each other through shar- Clan, Beausoleil First Nation, were in the way and they needed to protests. ing life and family stories to come spoke about the Coldwater- Nar- remove us. They referred to us as together in a common cause,” said rows Reserve and Settlement. the ‘Indian Problem’. Many died leil First Nation and Cape Croker. $300 million settlement and to Monague. “They held peaceful A current band councillor and through germ warfare through At the time Coldwater Reserve share it with a fourth community, rallies to educate people and there Georgian College native language smallpox, typhoid.” Chief John Assance did not want Cape Croker. was a great sharing of informa- instructor, Monague said Anishi- Native people were initially to leave and held a protest inside “Along the way Canada tion. Finally unity prevailed and nabek translates into “Good peo- involved in the settlement of the the mill with warriors. changed negotiators numerous the municipality backed off and ple” and early treaties that were lands in that area through farm- In the 1970’s the chiefs met times to stall things and at a cost,” decided not to build a dump.” about peace and friendship later ing, and building of the Coldwater to discuss the Coldwater history. said Monague. “We have used the “We did it through non-violent became about land and acquiring Road and Flour Mill but early set- In 1985 the chiefs sanctioned re- money to look after our commu- ways, ceremonies and under- land. tlers wanted the land and so it was search and in 1991 the Chippewa nities for housing, jobs, the edu- standing our neighbours. If every “A treaty is a contract between sold out from beneath them. These Tri-council submitted a claim. In cation system and health issues. Canadian knew more about First two or more political authorities were lands not surrendered but 1996 the claim was rejected but Beausoleil put their share into a Nation People we could come to and states or sovereigns, and gov- taken and people were removed to was resubmitted in 1998. trust to live off the interest and last an understanding. We will always ernment signed treaties on behalf different areas. In 2002 Canada agreed to into the future.” be different but we can come to- of the Native people making them The four bands involved were negotiate, and in 2012 the Tri- Monague also spoke about the gether – sometimes it takes a crisis ‘Treaty People’,” he said. Rama, Georgina Island, Beauso- Council agreed to accept Canada’s protests surrounding Site 41 that for that to happen.”

STAFF mission The Union of Ontario Indians Allan Dokis Mike Sawyer Theresa Stevens Alicia McLeod Kevin Restoule Intergovernmental Affairs department is Director Treaty Research Clerk Administrative Assistant Treaty Research Coordinator Policy Analyst committed to the protection of aboriginal [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] and treaty rights, ensuring access to Ext. 2251 Ext. 2237 Ext. 2327 Ext. 2264 Ext.2304 land and resources, and supporting the political goals, values and aspirations of Union of Ontario Indians - Head Office, 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 12 Damnadaa/Let’sAnishinabek News Play January-February 2014 Rabbit and Bear Paws

Square dancers – including Judy Syrette and Alice Corbiere, foreground enjoy themselves at the Classic Country Sundays Holiday Festival in Garden River. Country fans pack Garden River hall By Margaret Hele singer Evelyn Richards, accompa- GARDEN RIVER FN – For over nied on the guitar by son Wayne, a year now, First Nation fans of and familiar First Nation singers country music have had a monthly Hank Schryer, Eva Olar, Mike La- place to tap their feet. nus, Ivy Pelletier, George Trudeau The Christmas version of and Hardy Pelletier. Classic Country Sundays drew Participants in their 90s were over 150 to Garden River’s Rec- among the dance pairs, and caller reation Centre from as far away Ellis MacDonald, put the square as Wikewemikong and Peshaw- dancers through their paces. bestown near Traverse City, Mich- “These events bring joy to the igan. elders and to our community,” said Headline entertainers were Liz Jones. Cheyenne Saucier, backed up by A smorgasbord supper capped her dad and three Brothers, and off the Christmas version of Clas- acclaimed fiddle player Ruby John sic Country Sunday, which was and the Stumpy Coldwater Trio. first staged by the First Nation and “Ruby said she wanted to be Sault Ste. Marie Indian Friendship Christian Island Christmas a fiddle player at the age of four,” Centre in November 2012. The Students at Christian Island Elementary School celebrated the holiday season with their annual concert and said mother Cyndi. “At 11 we were event is now organized at the Gar- class parties on the last day of school. Grades 2/3 students were getting ready to enjoy some sweet treats able to send her to fiddle lessons.” den River Recreation Centre by when Anishinabek News dropped by. Sharing goodies with classmates were, from left: Deserae Jelly-Monague, Local performers included Dan Jones and volunteers. Malachi Ryce, Noah Rice and Lola Monague. – Photo by Sharon Weatherall

Holiday snow fun Kindergarten students at Christian Island Elementary School were having fun outside on the last day of school before the Christmas holiday break. The For more information contact your local health unit. youngsters were painting snow, building snow forts and playing on schoolyard equipment like the slide. From top: Arianna Assance-Snook, Aiden Copegog and Ryeland Jamieson - Roote. – Photo by Sharon Weatherall January-February 2014 Anishinabek News Page 13

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

Monague thinks the program is going very well. He says the ‘Gchi nendam gwa vision is different and a standard western model is not being used so there have been a few bumps noonga maa yaa yan’ which have been adapted to by By Sharon Weatherall First Nation women say every- staff and students. BARRIE – When he has complet- one (in class) is now at a level "It was developed for us to ed the two year Anishnaabemowin where they can fluently under- get a dying language back into Language Program at Georgian stand pieces of the language and the community so activities here College's Barrie Campus, Tyler put small phrases and sentences are geared to that," he says. "I had Taylor hopes to share what he has together. They have learned how students walk in here with limited learned with his community. to introduce themselves and say or no knowledge of the language "Not a lot of our people speak where they are from, introduce or culture and now they can string or know the language, but a lot of their family members, talk on the together sentences and are us- people want to learn so I am tak- phone, and other practical but key ing the language on a daily basis ing the course so I can teach in communications. which was our goal. my community," says Taylor, a "Since I have been coming That some of the students in Georgina Island First Nation citi- here I am more able to understand the course will be taking the lan- zen who is one of 15 students in my grandmother who speaks guage back to their communities the new language program which mostly Anishnaabemowin," says to share is very gratifying for Mo- is unique to Georgian College and Offord. nague. Ontario. "The teachers here are very "It makes it good that we are When asked how they were understanding and patient. We get changing the structure of the way enjoying the program thus far stu- a lot of support. We are not just Anishinaabe should be taught. I am very thankful that we have a dents Cheryl Offord and Cheryl learning the language but the cul- Language student Tyler Taylor with teacher Jeff Monague. Jamieson responded, "gchi ne- ture and a history lesson too." college that is so supportive and Participants may be doing it cational goal at the end that asks ndam gwa noonga maa yaa yan" The program which began in a dean – Maryann Fifefield – who for personal reasons, to use in the 'what can you do with the lan- which means "we are happy to be September, 2013 combines both has that kind of vision and the will home or teach in the community, guage?' Basically we are creating here". culture and technical aspects and to make it work." or they could end up employed a program for a job that doesn't Jamieson explained that the was ten years in the making. It in- Outside the classroom there perhaps as a language co-ordina- exist which is the buzz for Geor- shorter an English word is, the volves teaching students the "nuts is a board containing the Anish- tor, or some other position. gian College." longer it is in Anishnaabemowin. and bolts" of the language during naabemowin "Word of the Day" "Oral languages are great but Wakelin designed the course Offord says the teachers make it the first year, while the second which says appropriately "Biis- you need to get it written down," in collaboration with instructor so students are learning at a "baby year is more program planning kan Gbiiskawaagan" – "Put your says Rebecca Wakelin, who Jeff Monague, a Beausoleil citi- steps" level, starting with a person and focusing on how to use the coat on" and "giksinaa" – "It's heads Anishnaabemowin Lan- zen who has been teaching Native themself and then branching out language. Elders and special guest cold". guage Programming -- Aboriginal language for 14 years to every to their family, community and speakers play an important role For more information visit Studies and Health at the Barrie grade from Junior Kindergarten to the world. The two Beausoleil during frequent class visits. www.georgiancollege.ca and go Campus."There had to be a vo- post-secondary. to "Barrie campus". Page 14 Anishinabek News January-February 2014

Powerline training feeds industry need By Heather Campbell Greg Williamson, director, SUDBURY – A dozen First Na- high-risk activity training and tion participants enrolled in a evaluation with IHSA said there Gezhtoojig Employment program is a demand in the powerline in- that makes them work-ready for dustry for workers trained in these jobs in powerline and construc- skills who are also mobile. On- tion. tario’s infrastructure has been Graduate Tom McKenzie, a undergoing upgrading and older citizen of Temagami First Na- workers are retiring, creating the tion, landed a job interview before need for more workers in the field. graduation. The line crew ground support “By going through this course workers are in the field alongside I have become confident. First powerline technicians who are thing I accomplished that meant responsible for the construction, First graduates from Aboriginal Line Crew Support Program, from left: David Pangowish, Steven Peshabo something to me,” he says. maintenance and repair of over- , Sean Contin, Robert Couchie, Dustin Debassige, Gerald Debassige, Chad Commanda, Richard Fournier, McKenzie was in the first head and underground electrical Thomas McKenzie, John Moss, James Boucher. Absent: Gilbert Dokis. class of graduates to complete power transmission and distri- – Photo by Infrastructure Health & Safety Association the certificate in Aboriginal Line bution systems that make up the wage subsidies in order to get for participants, and helped devel- one in Spring 2014. Organizers Crew Ground Support program, electrical power grid. them hired. op teamwork among them.. anticipate that some graduates intensive 15-week hands-on train- Tom McKenzie said the train- Carey Gilligan, Powerline “They have to have their will want to explore the two-year ing offered by the Infrastructure ing emphasized the importance Technician Training with IHSA co-workers backs. They were all Powerline Technician program. Health and Safety Association of teamwork in contributing to and the primary instructor for taught this the first week, and they Gezhtoojig Employment and (IHSA), Gezhtoojig Employment worksite health and safety. the program, said the graduates all bought into it,” said Gilligan. Training is a circle of Anishina- and Training and Cambrian Col- “We began to care about each should see employment doors They had to work together to bek people with a vision of self- lege. All 12 students accepted into other’s safety and that we all got open for them immediately. solve problems whether it was determination and works to foster the Gezhtoojig program gradu- through the program,” he says. Gilligan spent most of the what time they took lunch or cut- and direct Aboriginal employ- ated from the training, which has “We would study together and instruction time outside, “three ting down a tree and constructing ment, training and business de- equipped them with work-ready make decisions as a group. No weeks working in the swamp and a hydro pole. velopment initiatives. To find out skills including electrical safety, one was getting left behind.” that’s when they realized this is There will be three more in- more about the program and next construction health and safety, Gezhtoojig Employment and hands-on, not just sitting in class.” take periods into the powerline intake, call Ron Sarazin, special defensive driving techniques, and Training monitors graduates for The trainer said the in-field ex- ground crew program over the projects coordinator, rons@gezh- mobile crane operation. six months and can negotiate perience was a confidence-builder next two years, with the next toojig.ca or (705) 524-6772. First Nations sit on $650 million By Don Marks in mining, hydro and other re- ally appropriate by incorporating WINNIPEG – If you have been source development. At the same First Nations history, culture and wondering what all the fuss about time, this moves education up the lifestyle into the classroom, train- resource extraction and develop- list of priorities, because only half ing and diplomas should reflect ment on First Nations land means, of First Nations young people suc- what is required in the workplace you need look no further than a re- cessfully complete high school, as much as subjects students will cent report by the Fraser Institute. compared with 80 per cent of the never use after they graduate. It reveals the enormous potential in rest of the Canadian population. Employment requirements wealth and jobs that can be created First Nations leaders are rec- might be structured for the real by developing these resources. ommending a more common- world, where a driver's licence According to the report, 600 sense approach to education by can be just as valuable as a diplo- projects worth $650 billion depend making academic curricula and ma. Training on the job should be on co-operation between First Na- training programs relevant and ef- made available so the equivalent tions and mining companies with- fective. of apprenticeships can be gained in the next 10 years. Besides making the non- for jobs such as construction and With much of this develop- vocational studies more cultur- carpentry. ment to take place in rural and northern Canada, where most First Nations are located, you might say a huge chunk of this country's fu- ture is at stake, especially when you recognize the population of First Nations and Métis is grow- ing by almost 50 per cent while the rest of the Canadian population is increasing by only eight per cent. If a fair share of the jobs and profits from that $650 billion in estimated value doesn't go to First Nations, which are plagued by poverty and unemployment, this country is going to face an eco- nomic mess like never seen before. Besides access to of the land, which First Nations must consent to for development to take place, First Nations offer the biggest po- tential workforce for the mining projects. Fully half of that dispropor- tionately growing population is under the age of 25, which is ideal for many to begin a lifelong career January-February 2014 Anishinabek News Page 15

Anishinabek seek mining capacity

By Marlene Bilous First Nation level in Anishinabek First order to protect An- Nations involved in ishinabek and treaty mining issues are unit- rights and respond ed in expressing their to the strict time- need for increased ca- lines required by pacity at the local level Ontario’s new min- in order to handle the ing regulations. increased paper burden Anishinabek caused by new mining Northern Superior representatives at the regulations. Regional Chief Peter Lake Huron work- “Why is MNDM Collins shop were especially Dr. Deb McGregor of Whitefish River First Nation talks about First Nations perspectives on water. (Ontario Ministry vocal about the need of Northern Development and for First Nation-level capacity to Mines) not providing our five assist in the analysis of Closure Treating water like a relative First Nations – as designated with Plans high mining needs by MNDM – “First Nations do not have the By Barb Nahwegahbow yond just safe drinking water. They are concerned with a person for each of us?” capacity to assess all these differ- TORONTO – Dr. Deb McGregor takes her tradi- about the water as a spiritual and physical entity Regional Grand Chief Peter Col- ent reports,” said Henvey Inlet tional responsibilities to water very seriously. within Creation, as the lifeblood of Mother Earth. lins asked at October’s mining Chief Wayne McQuabbie. “ We A citizen of Whitefish River First Nation, Mc- They worry about the fish and the wildlife and workshop for Northern Superior need mining capacity at our lo- Gregor is Associate Professor, Department of Ge- medicines that depend on the water for life. In turn, communities. “We have issues cal level and we need all parties ography and Planning at the University of Toronto she said, we depend on fish and wildlife for food, with the short notice period for at the table.” where she spoke on Dec. 4 about her research into and medicines for healing. It’s critical, she said, claim staking and the very short Chiefs across the Anishinabek Anishinaabe knowledge as it relates to water. that we question whether we are interfering with response period for exploration territory stressed that the time pe- She began with an illustration of the teachings water’s ability to fulfill its duties and responsibili- plans and exploration permits. riods required by the new regula- she’s received from Elders to remember her place ties to give life. All waters need to be protected, “We are short of capacity at tions were too short. in Creation and her responsibilities when she’s she was told by Elders and traditional Knowledge present and bogged down with “Twenty-one days is not conducting research. Using slides, she introduced Keepers, not just drinking water. paperwork and need at least one enough time to analyze an her family, her community, her territory and her One of the things that came out of her research, person for each First Nation in or- MNDM request for an explora- nation. she said, is that First Nations people treat water as der to process all this extra paper- tion plan,” noted one participant. “I think about doing this kind of work with an a relative. “That’s how Josephine looks at the Great work required by the new mining “ We have issues with the 30-day ethical Indigenous approach,” McGregor said. “It’s Lakes,” McGregor said. “They all have a personal- regulations. We have a shortfall clause for responding to a notice recognizing the people around you, the political, ity.” She recalled a workshop she attended in 2007 as there is mining exploration for staking a claim. We want an social, economic and cultural, but also the land it- where Ed Metatawabin, former Chief of Fort Al- happening all across the territory. extension as we have staff capac- self. It’s how you frame your work.” bany, put out a glass of water and addressed it as Furthermore, how do the other ity issues.” It’s also important to recognize your teachers, a relative. “That’s a very different way of relating communities get on this list as Grand Council Chief Patrick the source of your knowledge, she noted, and not to water than thinking about it as a commodity,” many of the Northern Superior Madahbee and Lake Huron Re- just academic teachers. The late Robin Greene she said. First Nations deal with mining?” gional Grand Chief Isadore Day from the Treaty 3 area was an influential teacher “Traditional knowledge is very important in Participants at mining work- have stated that Anishinabek for her, as is Josephine Mandamin, who started the terms of making decisions about water,” McGregor shops in the four Anishinabek mining issues will be addressed Mother Earth Water Walk in 2003. said. “The spiritual, cultural, traditional element is Nation regions all echoed the by the Anishinabek- MNDM Bi- “She knows the state of the Great Lakes prob- really important for how you think about water, need for increased capacity at the lateral Table on Mining. ably better than anybody,” McGregor said of the how you govern and how you understand your re- Wikwemikong Elder who has walked the circum- lationships and responsibilities.” The Elders have ference of all five Great Lakes. said, “there’s going to be consequences for every- Indigenous people have a much more wholistic body…and if we don’t sort it out, everybody’s go- Report reinforces view of water, McGregor said, one that goes be- ing to be affected if we don’t respect water.” First Nations rights OTTAWA – National Chief important recom- Mining resources now online Shawn A-in-chut Atleo says a mendations. "As new federal report emphasizes we have said, The Union of Ontario Indians CYCLE BEGINS. THE COM- that First Nations are key players in order to en- has put together online resources PANY MAY WALK ON YOUR in natural resource development. sure prosperity for communities that are have TERRITORY. The Assembly of First Na- for Canada and mining companies interested in Advanced Exploration – tions (AFN) leader was com- First Nations, their territory. The resource can MNDM provides written no- National Chief be found on the UOI website tice of permit application below menting on “Forging Partner- Canada must Shawn Atleo ships, Building Relationships” recognize First http://www.anishinabek.ca/ ground to First Nations and asks prepared by Douglas R. Eyford Nation rights, support First Na- minerals-and-mining.asp Chief to call company - time lim- and presented to the Prime Min- tions through capacity support, The purpose of this guide for it 50 days for MNDM to decide. stakes a claim and registers it ister. The report focuses on First access to capital, and engage in mining in Anishinabek Nation MNDM can stop the clock and with MNDM - no consultation Nations and Energy Develop- environmental planning that in- Territory, is to assist First Na- call for mediation if serious dis- with First Nations. ment. corporates First Nations tradi- tions in navigating through the pute with First Nations Early exploration – MNDM “Mr. Eyford’s report re- tional knowledge and principles individual phases of the Min- Closure Plans – Required provides written notice and gives flects some key concerns and and must facilitate shared deci- istry of Northern Development to open a mine - company must First Nations 21 days to comment perspectives of First Nations as sion making that is respectful, and Mines (MNDM) mining se- prove that site can be rehabilitat- on exploration above ground. IF they relate to energy develop- inclusive and accountable. First quence. In order, these phases ed after mine is closed - 45 days CHIEF DOES NOT ANSWER ment and resource development Nations are not simply another are: for First Nation and company THESE PLANS, THE MINING and addresses these with some interest group in this work. Claim Staking – Company consultation. STAFF mission Jason Laronde Rhonda Gagnon Sarah Louis Arnya Assance The mission of the Lands and Director Water Resources Policy Analyst Water Resources Assistant AORMC Coordinator Resources department is to foster [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] a better quality of life by ensuring Ext. 2263 Ext. 2318 Ext. 2245 Ext. 2340 access to natural resources in support of the goals, principles and Union of Ontario Indians - Head Office, 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 16 Anishinabek News January-February 2014

M’Chigeeng education department manager and principal of Lakeview School, Neil Debassige energized Anishinabek Nation Women’s Council members the participants during his best practices presentation. Veronica Waboose, Northern Superior; Bonnie The First Nations Operated Schools Conference took Bressette, Southwest; Joan Hendrick, Lake Huron place in Sault Ste. Marie on January 30-31, 2013 Anishinabek Nation moved a big step closer to First Nations control of Region Elder and Donna Debassige, Lake Huron bringing together 80 participants. The conference was First Nations education. An Education Panel discussed the strategic plan speak to Chiefs at Assembly on June 5 at Grand a forum for Anishinabek leadership and educators to for the Anishinabek Education System during Grand Council Assembly Council Assembly in support of resolution. Chiefs- gather and discuss areas of common concern as well on June 4-6, 2013 in Munsee Delaware First Nation. From left: Nipissing in-assembly unanimously endorsed a resolution as to discuss opportunities to work together and how First Nation Chief Marianna Couchie, Robert Beaudin, M'Chigeeng First to support the adoption of the Anishinaabe Chi- the Anishinabek Education System can support First Nation, Sharon Goulais, Dokis First Nation and Tracy O'Donnell, UOI Naaknigewin Implementation Plan. Nation Schools. – Photo by Monica Lister Education Negotiator. – Photo by Monica Lister – Photo by Monica Lister What is a Community Going Forward Together Engagement Session? Niigan Ga-Zhaamin The Chiefs Committee on Gover- ishinabek Law implementation This is your opportunity to become better informed about Resto- nance, Education Working Group, Gov- • Development and implementation of ration of Jurisdiction. This year the Community Engagement Strat- egy (CES) sessions will take place in urban centres across Anishi- ernance Working Group and Negotiators Comprehensive Communication Strategy nabek territory. will work together to ensure the develop- • Finalization of negotiated self-gov- Community Engagement Strategy sessions serve to support An- ment and implementation of key priori- ernment agreements for initialling and ishinabek Grand Council mandates on: • Anishinabek path to self-government ties for the coming months. The team will Anishinabek First Nations review • Anishinaabe Dodemaag System of governance be focusing on the following in the com- • Supporting ratification of Anishina- • Anishinaabe Chi-Naaknigewin and First Nation constitutions ing months: bek Nation First Nations Constitutions • Fiscal Arrangements for the Anishinabek Education System • Anishinaabe Chi-Naaknigewin (An- and the Anishinabek Nation Education • Proposed education and governance self-government agree- ments for the recognition by Canada of existing inherent rights ishinabek Nation Constitution) and An- Agreement

The Community Engagement Strategy also directly supports the advancement of the Governance Final Agreement towards a ratifi- cation process, and prepares Anishinabek citizens for a ratification Anishinabek Nation Education vote on the Education Final Agreement in 2014.

We encourage you to come out to an urban session to learn and Agreement Timeline share. For information about the CES sessions please contact Tam- • January to May 2013 – Anishinabek Nation replies to Canada’s offer my Desmoulin at [email protected] . • August 2013 – Ontario indicates willingness to proceed with Master Education Agreement with the Anishinabek Nation • September 2013 - Updated fiscal proposal from Canada – Ontario confirms it is seeking a mandate on Community Engagement Strategy Sessions the Master Education Agreement • November 2013 - AN Chiefs support Anishinabek Education System through Grand Council Resolu- February 11, 2014 – N’Swakamok Friendship Centre tion at Special Assembly on Education • March 2014 - Anishinabek Nation anticipates completing negotiations of the Education Agreement, Sudbury, ON – 9:00am – 4:00pm the education fiscal arrangements and Education Implementation Plan - the complete education agreement package March 26 – 30, 2014 – Anishinaabemowin Teg Confer- • Spring 2014 – Education Assembly ence – Kewadin Hotel and Conference Centre, Sault Ste. • June 2014 – Initialling of Anishinabek Nation Education Agreement Marie, Michigan (multiple sessions, times will be deter- • Fall 2014 – Ratification Vote mined once conference schedule is published • April 2016 – Effective Date for Anishinabek Education System Note: The Anishinabek Nation Education Agreement recognizes Anishinabek inherent jurisdiction over education and provides for a government-to-government fiscal transfer in the form of a grant. Restoration of Jurisdiction Meetings

Chiefs Committee on Governance (CCOG) Date: March 19 - 20, 2014 Sign COO petition against FNEA Location: Fort William First Nation/Thunder Bay, Despite First Nations opposing the First Nations The Chiefs of Ontario have set up a petition Ontario Education Act since October 2012, the Canadian against the FNEA. Stand with First Nations and Harper Conservative government plans on passing First Nation students. Send a message to Prime Governance Working Group (GWG) education legislation by September 2014. In Octo- Minister Harper and Aboriginal Affairs Minister Date: February 19 - 20, 2014 ber 2013, they released a Proposal for a Bill on First Valcourt to stop the proposed First Nation Educa- Nation Education and a draft copy of the legislation. tion Act. Location: Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario First Nations are saying that the legislative ap- The more messages the Harper government proach is paternalistic and sets out more ministerial receive, the more likely First Nations will have a Education Working Group (EWG) oversight over First Nations schools than currently chance to receive the same quality of education as Date: March 25 - 27, 2014 exists. They are also saying that current underfund- the rest of Canada. Every letter counts Location: Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario ing of First Nation education will not be resolved by http://www.thepetitionsite.com/573/898/984/ the proposed legislation. stop-canadas-proposed-first-nation-education-act/ January-February 2014 Anishinabek News Page 17

Anishinabek Chiefs confirmed the new, regionally selected, representative Board of Directors of the Cindy Fisher addresses participants during the “Our Experience with Kinomaadswin Education Body at the Special Anishinabek youth elect Nathalie Restoule, Dokis First Constitution Development” Panel, October 1-2, 2013 at the Anishinabek Assembly on Education, Nov. 13-14 at Nipissing Nation and Quinn Meawasige, Serpent River First Nation First Nations Constitution Conference. From left: Darlene Naponse - First Nation. Cindy Fisher said, ‘I can’t believe how interim Anishinabek Nation youth representatives through Atikameksheng Anishinawbek, Arnold May - Nipissing First Nation, happy I am…yes we are going to do this. Once we traditional election during the Anishinabek Eshkeniijig Connie Milliken - Chippewas of Kettle and Stony Point, Lynda Trudeau ground our children in who they are it is going to be Engagement 2013 held at Nipissing First Nation on August - Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve, Wayne Beaver - Alderville First amazing. One generation always goes further than 20 – 22, 2013. – Photo by Stan Wesley Nation and Cindy Fisher - Pic River FN. – Photo by Kelly Crawford the one before.” – Photo by Monica Lister Anishinabek First Nations Constitutional Development snapshot

A constitution is the supreme law of a Nation. It is • Reflects the principles, values and beliefs of the The Constitution Development Project coordi- a set of laws that a People have made and agreed upon people nates and assists First Nations with the development that make up or constitute who they are, what powers • Supports stability and accountability in First Na- of their constitutions. and functions they have within their jurisdiction, and tion government decisions The Restoration of Jurisdiction department pro- how these powers and functions are exercised. vides technical expertise to support constitutional STATUS REPORT development. Community visits and one-on-one as- The benefits of a constitution are: sistance are available to First Nations. • Declares jurisdiction over matters within the Total Anishinabek First Nations involved in con- The Special Projects Coordinator is available to First Nation territory stitutional development: 38 provide First Nations with the assistance and sup- • Asserts and confirms the autonomy of the First Constitution Process Started: 12 First Nations port necessary to establish constitution committees, Nation Initial Draft Started: 13 First Nations develop a draft community constitution, plan for • Defines the sources of power and authority Final Draft Complete: 7 First Nations community consultation and prepare for ratification • Provides a framework for community gover- Preparing for Ratification: 5 First Nations processes. nance Constutution ratified: Nipissing First Nation For more information please contact Faye Sab- • Protects the rights and freedoms of it citizens ourin at [email protected] . #NOFNEA Involve, engage, ignite change Last year the federal Conservative Government continued efforts How to get involved in Nation Building and stay up-to-date with topics affecting your com- to sabotage First Nation efforts to strengthen our communities. the Restoration of Jurisdiction: munity and the Anishinabek Nation A glaring example of this approach was the proposed First Na- 1) Check website www.anishinabek.ca and 5) Discuss the Anishinaabe Chi-Naaknige- tions Education Act (FNEA), designed to place our citizens under www.anishinabeknews.ca for updates on the win, Anishinabek identity, self-determination, more federal control and which represents a legislative assault on Anishinabek Nation Education Agreement, First your First Nation’s Constitution, the Anishinabek First Nation independence and culture. Nations Constitutions, the Anishinaabe Chi- Education System. More discussion generates The Union of Ontario Indians has developed an online poll to Naaknigewin (Anishinabek Nation Constitution), more interest gather opinions about the looming FNEA and help formulate a col- the Anishinabek Nation Governance Agreement, 6) Call us at 1-877-702-5200 and we can up- lective response to it. The survey also solicits input and support for and other Nation Building and Restoration of Ju- date you on the latest developments and events the proposed Anishinabek Education System (AES). The AES is not risdiction (Law-Making) initiatives and events, 7) Ask your Chief and Council how to be- a response to the FNEA; it is a concept developed by Anishinabek such as the annual Education Symposium (April come more involved in your First Nation’s and educators which has been under negotiation between the Anishinabek 2014) the Anishinabek Nation’s affairs. Nation and Canada for the past 18 years. Your opinions are important! 2) Attend the scheduled Community Engage- Please consider participating in the poll and forwarding this letter ment Strategy Sessions If you would like to be on our e-mail distribu- on to your contacts. The poll is now open and will remain open until 3) Network with people in your community tion list, please e-mail our Community Relations February 28th, 2014 at 9:00 pm. To participate, please register online and other communities who are involved Officer, Tammy Desmoulin at tammy.desmou- at: http://portal.anishinabek.ca/public/. All you need to participate is 4) Attend First Nation Council meetings and [email protected] a valid email address and internet access.

ROJ STAFF Union of Ontario Indians - Head Office, 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 Patricia Campeau Mary Laronde Monica Lister Education Negotiations Esther Gilbank Tammy Desmoulin Fiscal Policy Analyst Community Relations Officer Governance Policy Analyst Admin Assistant Chiefs Committee on Governance Coordinator [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Ext. 2270 Ext. 2226 Ext.2266 Ext.2228 Ext.2275 Page 18 Anishinabek News January-February 2014 ‘Third World Canada’ director aims to make the invisible, visible

By Marci Becking on Manitoulin Island, where 300 NIPISSING FN – Andree Caza- community members came out to bon knows that her films are not see the film. always easy to watch. “It was overwhelming for me But the determined director to stand in front of that many peo- with roots in Sturgeon Falls stub- ple and tell them my story,” says bornly pursues her mission to edu- McKay who hopes someday to cate everyday Canadians about become a journalist and tell other Nipissing University Vice-President Richard Onley with Grand Council Chief Patrick Madahbee, ‘Third World conditions in First Nations like people’s stories. “My story goes Canada’ director Andree Cazabon, Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug citizen Faith McKay and Deputy Grand Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug, from sadness to hope. At one point Council Chief Glen Hare. a First nation located 600 kilome- I wanted to end my life and now tres northeast of Thunder Bay. I’m telling everyone my story all up asked what they could bring as “It makes the invisible, vis- over the place.” gifts to their host families. My re- ible,” says Cazabon. “The first “Third World Canada” is the sponse to them was instead of giv- time I went to K.I. I experienced fifth of Cazabon’s films, which ing money, just learn.”

culture shock. I couldn’t believe have been collectively viewed by McKay hopes that there will this was my country. over a million people. It touches be a similar exchange happening “We’re trying to get it in the on the power of change, trans- again this summer. hands of everyday Canadians,” forming people and the resilience “The youth are in the begin- says Cazabon who produced of youth. Free screenings were ning planning stages, but we’d like “Third World Canada” about three shown at Nipissing University on people to come in August. There suicides that leaves eight siblings Jan. 21, followed by panel discus- will be more community events orphaned in a community strug- sions in which audience member s during the week with the annual gling with living conditions most were asked their reaction to what homecoming and it will also be Canadians would find deplorable. they had seen. Responses ranged warmer to swim.” “We need social workers, ad- from “hopelessness” to “anger”. Cazabon’s memories of K.I. ministrators, public servants – we Cazabon helped McKay, along need people to understand that with K.I. youth Justin Beardy, Le- are not all grim. “Now when I’m not there, I communities like K.I. exist. I hope ona Matthews and Karyn Paishk We are pleased to announce the addition of Thomas R. Milne, of the Wikwemikong Unceded that one day, First Nations issues organize last June’s reconciliation miss the community. They are a Indian Reserve, as a new associate lawyer with our Firm effective January 27, 2014. He intends will be common family dialogue.” exchange in which 43 Canadians family to me. I asked my daughter to continue his practice in the area of First Nation’s law at our offices in Rama First Nation. Cazabon and KI youth resident travelled to K.I for a truly authen- where she wanted to go – Disney Mr. Milne received his Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Criminology & Criminal Justice with Faith McKay were touring Nipiss- tic First Nation experience. or K.I. and she chose K.I.” Concentration in Law at Carleton University, Ottawa and then received his Juris Doctor (J.D.) ing region to screen the film and “Our guests were over- For more information on the from University of British Columbia in 2011. talk upcoming projects. whelmed with the generosity of Third World Canada tour, visit the We are joined by Ogimaa Peltier and Mr. Milne’s family in congratulating Mr. Milne on his McKay, 25, recounts the tour the community,” says Cazabon. Third World Canada page on Face- outstanding achievement in becoming an Anishnabe lawyer. stop in M’Chigeeng First Nation “Many of them before they came book. 5884 Rama Road, Suite 109 Rama, ON L3V 6H6

www.nncfirm.ca WILFRID LAURIER UNIVERSITY KITCHENER | Waterloo | Brantford | Toronto Tel: 705.325.0520 [email protected]

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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 GRADUATE STUDIES Native Nurses Entry Program WITH AN INDIGENOUS Native Access Program WORLD VIEW Aboriginal Education Honours Bachelor of Education (Aboriginal) P/J Native Teacher Education Program LYLE S. HALLMAN FACULTY OF SOCIAL WORK Native Language Instructors’ Program Administrative & Support Services MSW ABORIGINAL FIELD OF STUDY Offi ce of Aboriginal Initiatives As the fi rst Aboriginal Master of Social Work program in Canada that is Aboriginal Cultural & Support Services completely informed by an Indigenous world view, our goal is to develop Lakehead University Native Students Association social work practitioners who demonstrate an understanding of and Nanabijou Aboriginal Graduate Enhancement respect for the history, traditions and cultures of the Indigenous peoples Lakehead University Aboriginal Alumni Chapter of Canada. This unique program includes the involvement of Indigenous elders, a traditional circle process, and Indigenous ceremonies. Elders Program • An innovative MSW degree immersed in an Indigenous, Offi ce of wholistic world view Aboriginal Initiatives • A full-time MSW program off ered at Laurier’s Kitchener Campus aboriginalinitiatives.lakeheadu.ca • Part-time off erings in partnership with Kenjgewin Teg Educational Institute, M’Chigeeng First Nation and First Nation Technical Institute, Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory • An empowering learning experience ADMISSION DEADLINE: APRIL ƒ, †ƒ‡

Tel: .. x  1-807-766-7219 or toll free 1-888-558-3388 Email: [email protected] wlu.ca/afs January-February 2014 Anishinabek News Page 19

Kinoomaagewin

First Nations vow to oppose imposed education act Report encourages feds to pony up parity By Michael Erskine ter models do exist, he suggests. Manitoulin Expositor Madahbee points to the success of MANITOULIN—The decision of an education agreement between the Harper government to forge 11 Mi’Kmaq communities and ahead with a First Nations Educa- Canada that dates back to 1997. tion Act in the face of strong oppo- “Their graduation rate this sition from the political leadership year was almost 90 percent,” says of those communities, despite as- Madahbee. “That’s because First surances from the federal govern- Nations communities came to- ment that the legislation would be gether and decided what was best crafted in concert with First Na- for their students – they have First tions, threatens to ignite another Nation control of First Nation edu- season of escalating anger and Idle cation.” No More protests. Opposition members have Anishinabek Nation Grand joined with the AFN and Anishi- Council Chief Patrick Madahbee nabek Nation in voicing opposi- said his nation has already rejected tion to the government’s approach. the First Nations Education Act. Algoma-Manitoulin-Kapuskasing “We have also taken a process MP Carol Hughes also cited the that we have been working on for Mi’Kmaq agreements as a model the past 18-19 years on developing and invoked the need for adequate an Anishinabek education system and meaningful consultation with to the final stage of going to our First Nations. “We don’t want to communities for ratification,” said set them up for failure,” she said. Grand Council Chief Madahbee. First Nations members from across the North converged on Sudbury in December to protest what they say is Ms. Hughes noted that the previ- “We have developed an education a unilateral implementation of the First Nations Education Act by the Harper government. The Idle No More ous auditor general had indicated authority, we have developed our demonstrations will likely heat up in the wake of a near universal condemnation of the act by First Nations leaders that it would take 20 years to close local representation on how that and grassroots community members. the education gap if action was will work in terms of regional taken immediately. councils and we have had our edu- plan of action to assert our juris- face-to-face regional consultation are at least attempting to do that, “Under the Conservative gov- cated front-line people, the experts diction over education.” sessions across the country, more but federal bureaucrats think they ernment the gap has only widened. in education, develop this system. For its part the federal gov- than 30 video and teleconference know better than educators. Unfortunately, this Conservative We don’t need some bureaucrat ernment’s Economic Action Plan sessions, as well as online consul- “Thirdly, this government government insists on continuing in Ottawa who has never been to 2013 website asserts that the act tation activities, including an on- starts their so-called educational with a top-down approach that has our communities to come and try “confirms the government’s com- line survey. reform with a threat to First Na- not worked in the past.” to tell us how to operate education mitment to consult with First Na- In addition, Aboriginal Affairs tions that if they don’t meet Ca- Liberal MP Carolyn Bennett, services for our community.” tions across Canada on the devel- noted that on June 12, 2013, the nadian standards they will be put critic for Aboriginal Affairs, said Madahbee said the biggest opment of a First Nation Education Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and under third-party management, “the Proposal for a Bill on First challenges facing Anishinabek Act and is committing to sharing Northern Development sent a let- despite the fact that First Nation Nations Education has received a Nation communities stem from this draft legislation with First Na- ter to all First Nation Chiefs and schools are largely underfunded failing grade from coast-to-coast- the lack of adequate education re- tions communities for their input.” Councils, including grand chiefs, and are unlikely to meet stan- to-coast” during an Oct. 24 House sources—and that shortfall stems The government website sets to provide an update on the con- dards set by other, better-funded of Commons session. “The Con- from the failure of the federal gov- out the government’s intention to sultation process and to outline the schools. For example, the school servatives should push pause on ernment in its treaty obligations. “have in place by September 2014 next steps in the development of in Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishi- this flawed, top-down strategy, sit “There is a disparity in the per a First Nation Education Act. This the proposed First Nation Educa- naabek (Rocky Bay First Nation) down with First Nations commu- capita rate between on-reserve and legislation would establish the tion Act. receives $4,781 less per student nities and build a workable, fully off-reserve schools,” said Madah- structures and standards necessary First Nations leaders assert than nearby provincially-funded funded plan that respects, supports bee. to ensure stronger, more account- that simply delivering the content Upsala School in the Keewatin and empowers First Nations to “There is a cap on post-sec- able education systems on-reserve. of the legislation and accepting Patricia District School Board. control their own education sys- ondary funding and we’re saying The government also committed comment from First Nations with- “The Anishinabek Education tems.” we need ample resources to oper- to exploring mechanisms to ensure out substantive accommodation System is holistically-rooted in The United Church of Cana- ate our own systems.” stable, predictable and sustainable of their concerns falls far short of community involvement, Anishi- da recently sent an open letter to The need for greater funding funding for First Nations elemen- working together to craft a strategy naabe identity, and meaningful Aboriginal Affairs and Northern for remote and isolated First Na- tary and secondary education. The that addresses educational needs. First Nations curriculum that puts Development Canada Minister tion communities has been high- government will continue to con- Madahbee outlined the issues. language and children at the fo- Bernard Valcourt requesting the lighted in recent reports, where sult with First Nations across Can- “Firstly, it gives our citizens, par- cal point of education. This is the government reconsider their ap- costs associated with construction ada on the development of legisla- ents and students no say in their type of system that will provide proach. and service delivery are typically tion and is committing to sharing own education,” he said. “This educational success for Anishina- The Canadian Chamber of much higher than that of urban and draft legislation with First Nations government just cannot bring it- bek Nation students, not another Commerce has weighed in on the southern communities. The As- communities for their input.” self to consult with our citizens government-run system where issue, issuing a report that calls sembly of First Nations recently The Ministry of Aboriginal Af- in a meaningful way because they there’s decades of proof that they upon the government to deal with completed a meeting in which the fairs and Northern Development believe they know what’s best cannot do the job.” the disparity of education in First act was a central point of discus- asserted on its website that there for our children. This is the same As proof of the shortcomings Nations as an economic priority sion. have been concerted consultation mentality as the government- run of a strategy wherein the federal and to ensure that meaningful con- “We discussed education at efforts stating that “over the last residential school disaster that had government oversees and dictates sultation takes place. length over the last two days and months, the government consulted a history littered with genocide First Nations education, the Grand The chamber report, entitled along with maintaining our rejec- with First Nations, provinces and and acts of inhumanity.” Chief could simply point to the “Opportunity Found: Improving tion of the federal legislation on others on a proposed framework “Secondly, it ignores curricu- tragedy of historical abuses stem- the participation of Aboriginal education we also collectively af- for legislation on First Nations lum needs that experts agree are ming from the residential school Peoples in Canada’s Workforce,” firm our inherent right to establish elementary and secondary edu- essential to the academic success system and the current disparity recommends the federal govern- and control our own educational cation, outlined in the December of First Nations learners – curricu- in high school completion rates ment: work with businesses to systems and institutions,” said As- 2012 Discussion Guide. Between lum that talks about our culture and that see only 36 percent of First identify more opportunities to sembly of First Nations Ontario December 2012 and May 2013, beliefs, and an accurate account of Nations students graduating high match private sector financial sup- Regional Chief Stan Beardy. “Ad- Aboriginal Affairs and Northern our historical contributions. school. Successes in the other ap- port for aboriginal skills and train- ditionally, we are developing a Development Canada held eight “Provincial public schools proach are not hard to find and bet- ing. Page 20 Anishinabek News January-February 2014

Opinion Anishinabek system ‘healthier’approach By Kelly Crawford The establishment and implementation of the Anishinabek Education System will support First Nation student success, First Nation jurisdiction and ensure strong Anishinaabe students for generations to come. Anishinabek Nation leaders have resolved to fight any further attempts by Canada to impose ex- Transition Students from M'Chigeeng First Nation meet Nipissing University President Dr., Michael DeGagne. Kelly Crawford ternal education systems and standards on their stu- From left: Percy Roy, Dr. Mike DeGagne, Cyndil Corbiere, Kelly Crawford (Transitions Coordinator), Erica dents. The Anishinabek Education System, the subject of negotiation Hare. for the past 18 years, is the preferred Anishinabek approach to the prin- ciple of First Nations control of First Nations education. As former Ontario Regional Chief Angus Toulouse told the Stand- Transition students meet presidents ing Senate Committee on Aboriginal Peoples in 2010: “First Nations education is in crisis. In some First Nations communities a staggering By Kelly Crawford Erica Hare from M’Chigeeng alsop found the trip seven out of ten First Nations students will not graduate from high NORTH BAY – Kenjgewin Teg Transitions students beneficial. school this year. In far too many others, countless First Nations chil- met the first Aboriginal president of a Canadian uni- “I enjoyed seeing what both schools have to offer. dren will never attend a school equipped with libraries, science and versity. I have many options to think about.” technology labs or athletic facilities. And incredibly, in a country as “Welcome to Nipissing University. It is a pleasure Azhiitaawin (Transitions) is a community- rich as ours, some First Nations children will never set foot in a proper to meet all of you,” Dr. Michael DeGagne told his based post-secondary education opportunity offered school.” visitors Nov. 29 as he welcomed them into his Nipiss- through Kenjgewin Teg Educational Institute (KTEI) Is the development of the Anishinabek Education System a solution ing University office to discuss their future plans. The in partnership with the University of Sudbury, Nipiss- to the shocking education reality for many First Nation students? One citizen of Northwest Angle #37 First Nation was in- ing University and Algoma University in Sault Ste. of the key questions that resonate with most people on any subject is stalled as Nipissing’s president in March, 2013, tell- Marie. The pre-university program offers modules “How will this affect me?” In this case, how will the implementation ing a North Bay audience that education is the key to in financial literacy, leadership, and life skills, while of the Anishinabek Education System affect me? a better world, an investment in one’s personal future providing participants the opportunity to earn 24 uni- We can recognize from a student perspective the tremendous ben- and the future of Ontario, and Nipissing University versity credits in a block community-based delivery. efits that will come from Anishinaabe education but how will this affect has a significant role to play in building that future. Students will complete the program with the de- First Nation communities? In the words of Anishinaabe Elder Art Solo- Cyndil Corbiere, M’Chigeeng First Nation, was velopment of a personal financial plan, video journal mon: “To heal a nation, we must first heal the individuals, the families one of the Transitions Program students who met Dr. and personal academic journey plan. In addition, stu- and the communities.” The implementation of the Anishinabek Educa- DeGagne. dents participate in the KTEI Passport to Anishinaabe tion System will facilitate the healing of the Anishinabek Nation. This “When we arrived at Nipissing University I re- Odziiwin, a self-learning tool that creates and pro- can be looked at as individual healing, by way of a holistic approach, membered when I was younger I would attend the an- motes an environment that reflects Anishinaabe lan- and with a global perspective. nual pow-wows at the university/college. I remember guage, traditions and culture. In pre-contact times, learning came through teachings focused on telling myself how beautiful the environment and at- Currently KTEI is recruiting for this program on a traditional values such as humility, honesty, courage, kindness and re- mosphere was and knowing that this is where I want- full and part-time basis. Students are able to take part- spect. First Nations scholar Verna Kirkness says traditional education ed to be when It was my time to attend university. time university studies by registering in one of the was strongly linked to the survival of the family and the community. “Well a few years later, here I am checking out courses, ideal for someone who requires additional This tells us that traditional education through teachings focusing on Nipissing’s beautiful campus once again. It was an elective university courses for their degree require- traditional values will lead to healthier communities. honour to meet with the first Aboriginal president of ments. The decolonization and revitalization of educational environments a Canadian university. Having the opportunity to sit Upcoming courses include: for First Nations students is essential to their lifelong success. Cur- and talk with him opened up more possibilities for my VISA 1026 Visual Fundamentals - Mar.03-Apr. ricula and teaching methods will be developed and approved by the future! He's a great inspiration and I look forward to 01, 2014 Anishinabek for the Anishinabek. Anishinabek students should not be seeing more of Nipissing in my future.” CESD 1006 Introduction to Community Econom- deprived of learning their language, history, values, and worldview. Transitions students visited partner universities, ic and Social Development - Apr. 02-28, 2014 Anishinabek First Nation schools can promote and foster cultural iden- including Nipissing, and the University of Sudbury Kenjgewin Teg Educational Institute is governed tity and pride among Anishinabek students, which in turn results in on the Laurentian University campus. They visited li- by a Board of Directors consisting of eight First Nation self-esteem and self-confidence. Students will flourish in a student- braries and Aboriginal Offices, had programs and ser- community representatives in the Manitoulin-North centered system that looks at learners from a holistic perspective. With vices tours, participated in class observation, and met shore area and is centrally located in M’Chigeeng a strong foundation, Anishinabek students will achieve more success in university presidents DeGagne and Dr. Pierre Zundel First Nation on Manitoulin Island – Mnidoo Mnising. education at all levels. of University of Sudbury. In the Ojibwe language, “Kenjgewin Teg” means “a The Anishinabek Education System can provide culturally- appro- “This visit was very inspiring,” said Percy Roy, place of knowledge”. priate education for Anishinaabe students and close the persistent edu- M’Chigeeng. “Both universities have a lot to offer. For more information on the Azhiitaawin (Transi- cational achievement gap while healing a nation. I look forward to taking this all in when making my tions) Program contact Kelly Crawford, Transitions decision.” Coordinator, [email protected] . Scholarships for Indigenous managers at McGill University MONTREAL – The EMBA Mc- within each cohort is essential to tee will consider each application, ability to reflect; is a program for seasoned manag- Gill - HEC Montreal is launching the learning approach of the pro- taking into account the following • An undergraduate degree; ers who continue working while a scholarship program aimed at gram. The Indigenous Peoples admission criteria: • At least 10 years of work ex- they participate in the 15 month Canada’s Indigenous population. scholarship will help to further • A capacity for leadership; perience, including five years in program. The program welcomes Each year, a manager of Indig- enrich this diversity. Since its • An intellectual curiosity and management positions. approximately forty participants enous origin will be chosen to re- launch in 2008, the McGill HEC • The ability to speak and annually. Classes typically meet ceive a $40,000 scholarship. The Montreal EMBA program has write in either English or French Thursday through Sunday, once selection will be based on merit. welcomed a number of managers Indspire programs and to understand and be able to a month. Reflecting the reality of The McGill - HEC Montreal of Indigenous origin such as Ken read the other language. Canadian business, the program EMBA program looks for indi- Rock (EMBA 2013) and Raphael Indspire is the largest supporter For further information, con- of Indigenous education outside is delivered in a bilingual format. viduals with different but comple- Picard (EMBA 2014). tact Michel Filion at 514-340- the federal government. To date The program is practice-focused mentary profiles. The diversity of . 6537 or [email protected] . Indspire has awarded more than and builds on Henry Mintzberg’s candidates within each cohort is Executives, senior and mid- $54 million in scholarships and About the McGill HEC Mon- essential to the learning approach level managers, professionals and tréal EMBA program managerial mindsets. bursaries to 16,000 First Nation, For information regarding this of the program. The Indigenous entrepreneurs of Indigenous ori- Inuit and Métis recipients The McGill-HEC Montreal Peoples scholarship will help to gin are encouraged to apply to the nationwide. https://indspire. EMBA, a partnership between scholarship or the McGill - HEC further enrich this diversity. McGill – HEC Montréal EMBA ca/programs/building-brighter- McGill’s Desautels Faculty of Montreal EMBA program, con- The diversity of candidates program. The selection commit- futures/ Management and HEC Montreal, tact us at 514-340-6537. January-February 2014 Anishinabek News Page 21 Anishinaabe Kwe Poetry

As I began to become weaker, you grew stronger No Shoes and so powerful that I wanted nothing else. I remember the first time I saw you, Our love affair became my only focus and my draw Glittering in the dim light of the evening’s festivities, to you was my only want and need in life. The promise of so much excitement awaiting if I I gave myself over to your control and your force would just reach out to you. overtook all that I knew. Right then and there I saw you as the key to my Then one day we were alone, just you and me, and happiness. that still was not enough for you. Tracey Boshdayosgaykwe Pawis and Christine King ensure “Walking The first time you touched my lips I knew I was in Under your spell, my life took turns I could never With Our Sisters” Commemorative Art Installation exhibit was handled have imagined. in a culturally-relevant and respectful manner. love. How exotic you felt as you moved through my body, I became a shell of the person I once was. my mind, my spirit. You had me and I was powerless. Moccasins draw When no one else was around, we would get My family, my job, my home, my car and my together and dance with the music loud, passion for life had all been tossed aside for you. Alone, just you and me, and our release felt like no other. I fought everything, everyone and every possibility mixed emotions of being free from you. By JenniferAshawasegai I believed that we would grow old together. No matter what we did together, I still believed that PARRY SOUND – Viewers of the “Walking With Our Sisters” ex- Sometimes our relationship was strong and one day we could make it right again. hibit experienced mixed emotions. sometimes it waned, but it always remained a How wrong I was. They see 1,600 moccasin vamps (tongues) that are beautiful works constant. I continued to hurt myself and those who loved me, of art; then the heart wrenches in realization that every one of those You were there whenever I needed you, waiting still not admitting that we were wrong together. vamps memorializes a missing or murdered Aboriginal woman. patiently for me to return to your embrace. When you took me to the hospital that last time, you The moccasin pieces were set up in long rows in the Parry Sound left me with no personal belongings, no money and Museum. Some vamps are intricately beaded, and depict symbols You helped me to feel confident, strong and secure no shoes. like dragon flies, northern lights, and butterflies. Some are painted, in the beginning, while others include pictures of the women. One pair, decorated with But slowly you took over and you made me I had several days to imagine walking home in the random black letters, includes a phrase in red, "There are no words." dependent upon you. cold without shoes The Commemorative Art installation was hosted at the Museum So easily in my distraction you began to become With cuts and bruises covering my body and my on Tower Hill in Parry Sound from January 10-26 Boshdayosgaykwe demanding. internal organs in distress. Tracey Pawis, Wasauksing First Nation citizen and owner of G'Zaagin You started to take over my time and erode my After years of abuse, I finally realized that I would Art Gallery, was a co-keeper of the exhibit. energy and my sense of well-being. rather live without you than to walk with no shoes. “There were lots of mixed emotions,” she said. “When it came My humility and powerlessness were complete and to receiving the vamps, I was happy to see them and I was also emo- I ignored your faults because I had come to need I knew that I must go on without you. tional because of what it represented.” you. My body, mind and spirit were broken by you, Co-keeper Christine King, also from Wasauksing, was similarly We had been a part of each other for so long. alcohol, but the Creator has given me one more day moved. You were my best friend, we had been through so to love myself more than I ever loved you. “Preparing for the arrival of the vamps didn't really hit me until much together. So I made up excuses for you. I was in the same room as them. And actually seeing them brought Anishnaabe Kwe tears to my eyes.” I thought we could make it through a rough patch, For King it was also a sacred experience. never imagining that you would turn on me. “It was much like handling items in the lodge, always with inten- tion of good positive feelings. Preparing the space felt like preparing a lodge.” And that’s exactly Metis artist Christi Belcourt envisioned when she conceived the idea of an exhibit to honour the memories of 582 missing and murdered Aboriginal women in Canada. (The number has since risen to 824 documented cases.) She wanted a way to honour the women and girls in a way that is respectful. Curators ensure traditional protocols are followed in each territory. Belcourt says it’s also mandatory to have a couple of grand- mothers on hand every day at the locations where the exhibit is being hosted in case people need to talk. In Parry Sound, the vamps were surrounded by cedar, women were offered skirts before entering the room and people were of- fered semaa and smudge. The grandmothers on hand included Elders Lorna Pawis, Donna King and Dora Tabobondung, also from nearby Wasauksing First Nation. Henvey Inlet First Nation visitor Nicole Contin was overwhelmed by the exhibit. “It was amazing to see. The artwork was very beautiful and it made the issue more personal because you could see all the artist's love in the vamps. “I felt sad and happy. There was a kind of bittersweet recognition and they will always be remembered,” she said. The Sisters In Spirit campaign was an initiative by Aboriginal women to research and document cases of missing and murdered Ab- original women and girls, as well as create awareness of the issue. The Walking With Our Sisters Commemorative Art Installation will be on tour until 2019. To find out more, visit their website: www. walkingwithoursisters.ca. Page 22 Anishinabek News January-February 2014 Get the news faster www.anishinabeknews.ca

COMMERCIAL LEASING OPPORTUNITIES Wikwemikong Development Commission is accepting applications/letters of intent for commercial leasing opportunities available in Wikwemikong’s new Small Business Centre Please send your information to Mr. Chuck Peltier, Business & Marketing Officer, [email protected]

Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, Michael Coteau; Nathalie Restoule, Dokis First Nation and Lieutenant Governor David Onley. Anti-racism work honoured TORONTO – Nathalie Restoule, 17, of Dokis community of Wikwemikong Unceded First First Nation, is a recipient of the 2014 Lincoln Nation as the 2013-2014 Miss Wikwemikong. M. Alexander Award for her activism in ad- In 2013, she organized a Round Dance at her dressing issues of racism among First Nations school for students and community members youth. to raise awareness around Bill C-4 – the so- Restoule, who also serves as the Anishi- called “omnibus bill” – and the Idle No More nabek Nation’s female youth representative, movement. There are 6 units available, Unit 1 is 3225 Square Feet, Unit 2 is 1600 Square Feet, Unit made a commitment to her community and Each year, the Lincoln M. Alexander 3 is 1010 Square Feet, Unit 4 is 1010 Square Feet, Unit 5 is 1010 Square Feet and her work to combat racism and discrimina- Awards are presented to three young people Unit 6 is 1010 Square Feet. tion. in Ontario between the ages of 16 and 25, “I usually have something to say for ev- who have demonstrated exemplary leadership Tenants will be able to take advantage of this great location for business. This building is in the heart of Wikwemikong’s business section, close to local government offices, erything, but this really leaves me speechless in promoting positive social change. Lincoln and residential areas. because I didn't think I'd be nominated for an Alexander was Canada’s first black member For more information contact Enaadmaagehjik at 705-859-3001 award for doing something that was ... I didn't of Parliament and served as lieutenant gover- think it was that big for what I was doing,” nor of Ontario from 1985 said Restoule. “But being nominated and to 1991. He died in 2012 at hearing the words by teachers, [who nomi- the age of 90. nated me], [what they] had to say, made me The award named in his step back a second and (say) 'Whoa - this is all honour is designed to em- my work' ... you know? It's really just an eye- power the province's youth opener, and I believe this is just the beginning to take on leadership roles to what else I can do in the future.” to help eliminate racial dis- Restoule, a Grade 12 student at North- crimination, and supports ern Secondary School in Sturgeon Falls, is the government's efforts to the founder of the Near North District School work together as One On- Board's first Aboriginal Youth Council which tario to build a successful, works to raise awareness, address issues of vital province where ev- racism, and provide opportunities for positive eryone has the opportunity change for Aboriginal youth. to connect, contribute and She was recently chosen to represent the achieve their goals. January-February 2014 Anishinabek News Page 23

Storyteller took poetic turn By Greg Macdougall my voice that I had.” OTTAWA – Vera Wabegijig's first book, “wild rice While living out west, she began to tell stories dreams”, comes after 20 years of writing poetry. through video and film, as well as continuing to write, The mother of two was born in Sudbury to a entering the Canadian Council for the Arts Aborigi- mother from Mississauga First Nation and a father nal Writer's Residency program at the Banff Centre from Wikwemikong, and says her upbringing in Blind for the Arts. Wabegijig entered the program to work River was missing any cultural context. on short story writing, but credits Metis writer-poet “We never smudged when I was a kid, or there Marilyn Dumont with suggesting that poetry might was no sweat lodges, or there were not those kind of be a better focus. ceremonies. Nobody had Indian names.” Her mentor helped get her started on the work of After graduating high school and moving to Ot- collecting, editing and revising already-written po- tawa she started to spend time with the elders there. ems, and Ojibway-French poet David Groulx con- “They were talking about more traditional or spir- nected her with Bookland Press, which published itual things,” she recalls, which helped her to sense “wild rice dreams” two years later. the importance of storytelling – and to start living that The book divides the poems into four sections : through writing and sharing stories in poetic form. “this native land”; “look around us”; “tending dreams Discovering Aboriginal writers such as Louise and memories”; and “all in the family,” with a mix of Erdrich, Sherman Alexie and Joy Harjo helped Vera light and more difficult subjects. connect with literature and poetry, finding a different Wabegijig says her goal “was always to write so form of narrative that she could relate to and under- people could understand, especially my people – I stand. Before that, she had trouble with the European- thought it was really important for that to happen.” style writing presented in her schooling. She says she hopes readers “can see themselves "It's coming from a different voice, and it's com- in the poems," that her stories "give them hope that ing from a different perspective and a different his- things can change." Poet Vera Wabegijig – Photo by Amanda Shea tory,” she says. “It didn't fit with me, it didn't fit with Her website is verawaabegeeshig.wordpress.com. Book Reviews sonal and collective challenges are about a shared history from some- students “would Meeting illuminated and awaken compassion one else’s “moccasins”. mostly compare and understanding. While the sadness and cruelty the racism we Plants as Concurrently, the author inter- of history remains undisputable, would encoun- destiny twines the existence of an “old wolf” the core strength and resiliency of ter; the way peo- teachers who ekes out an isolated and lonely the Nations of Indigenous peoples ple would talk to courageously existence. The characters and the is punctuated. Despite the echoes us and make fun As a bota- The suicide of wolf struggle through their respec- of the loss, grief and anguish that of us.” nist, Robin a friend consoli- tive challenges and ultimately meet persists even today, the determina- The experi- Wall Kim- dates the painful, their destinies courageously and as tion of First Peoples has never been ence got him merer has dark and repressed nature intended. extinguished. thinking about the way ‘Indian peo- been trained secrets of James “Porcupines and China Dolls” Unquestionably, the book is ple’ were looked at. “When I saw to ask ques- Nathan and Jake by Robert Arthur Alexie. Theytus thought-provoking and will chal- that, I saw an opportunity.” Roote tions of na- Noland. Their Books. Paperback 306 pages. ISBN lenge the reader in many different would become the best carpenter ture with the haunted histories 978-1-894778-68-8 (bound). Copy- ways. While I would have appreci- and then the top draftsman in high tools of sci- are expressed in their undirected right 2009. ated more detail on the “why” of the school. He thrived in the challenge ence. lives and by their dysfunctional be- – Reviewed by Laura Dokis spiritual ways of the Huron and the and shut racist stereotypes down. As a haviours. Iroquois, the novel compelled me This understanding – of knowing he member of Initially, the story overviews History: sad to fill in my own knowledge gaps had much to give and that there was the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, a basic historical timeline of the about this historical period. much to challenge – would eventu- she embraces indigenous teach- leadership and events that impact- “The Orenda” by Joseph Boy- ally have him serve two terms as ings that consider plants and ani- ed the “Blue People” of Canada’s but resilient den. Penguin Canada Books Inc. chief of Saugeen and for six years as mals to be our oldest teachers. Northwest Territories. A young Iro- Hardcover. 486 pages. ISBN 978- Grand Council Chief of the Union Drawing on her life as an Chief David becomes a catalyst quois girl (Snow 0-670-06418-2 (bound). First pub- of Ontario Indians. indigenous scientist, a mother, for change when he hears Jake’s Falls) is kid- lished 2013. Drawing partly from challenges and a woman, Kimmerer shows description of the events that took napped by an El- – Reviewed by Laura Dokis including a father who died early how other living beings – asters place in the “mission” school years der Huron Warrior of cancer and a mother who could and goldenrod, strawberries and before. Publicly, Chief David (Bird) as revenge not really mother, courtesy of her squash, salamanders, algae, and shares his story, compelling others for the killing of Lessons residential school experiences -- but sweetgrass – offer us gifts and les- to find their voices and to right the his family. In the mainly from traditional teachings, sons, even if we’ve forgotten how wrongs that they had suffered. The process, a Jesuit missionary named of hope Roote gives profound but simple to hear their voices. Elders bring forth cultural prac- Christophe (Crow) also becomes teachings for young men in a com- For only when we can hear the You might consider Vernon prehensive manner. Divided into tices and share them with the com- a Huron prisoner. Their lives be- Roote a lucky person. He didn’t languages of other beings will we munity who embrace the old ways come entwined as they struggle not the Good Red Road, Love, Honesty, be capable of understanding the attend residential school but he Responsibility, Health, Bravery, of life as they embark on their col- only for survival, but as they adapt couldn’t escape the narrow colonial generosity of the earth, and learn lective and individual journeys of to new ways of life and deal with Humility, and Wisdom, each chap- to give our own gifts in return. box in which First Nations youth ter gives lessons, examples, and healing. world views and cultural practices were “educated.” Roote grew up in Braiding Sweetgrass: Indig- Fraught with human defects of in opposition to their own. most importantly, hope. enous Wisdom, Scientific Knowl- Saugeen First Nation. After attend- M’daa Kendaaswin: To Look character and the weight and the At times the story is brutal, and ing a one-room school house near edge and the Teachings of Plants pain of the residential school ex- the perspectives, beliefs and prac- for Knowledge, Vernon Roote and October 2013 his community, he was sent to near- perience, the actions and lifestyles tices so conflicting that it leaves an Cindy Davidson; Ningwakwe ISBN 978-1-57131-335-5 by Owen Sound. In this slim, but Learning Press, 20012, 36 pg, ISBN of the characters seem rough and unmistakeable mark on the reader. very important book of Anishinaabe Hardcover | 320 pp | $24 “raunchy” at times. But, as their As a novel, I took in the plot as such 978-1-897541-45-6 Milkweed Editions men’s teachings, Roote writes – Reviewed by Laura Robinson lived experiences unfold, their per- and gained insight and perspective about the daily bus ride home when – Reviewed by Zoe Grams Page 24 Anishinabek News January-February 2014

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MARGARET AKULUKJUK Student I live in Parry Sound ON, but originally I am from Pangnirtung Nunavut (Ba n Island). I found out about the Anishinabek Educational Institute (AEI) through the day care I am currently working at. I am so lucky to be taking this program through AEI because it is like the college I went to back home. I am taking Native Early Childhood Profile Education (NECE) program with bunch of awesome ladies from all over Ontario. I plan to work in a daycare setting when I get my diploma. AEI has a great sta, who are so welcoming and willing to help all the students.

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