ᓂᓯᒐᐘᔭᓯᕽ ᓀᐦᐁᖪᐍᐱᐢᑭᑎᕐᑲᐢ OKIMAHKAN OTY’AMIWIN KITITAHWINAOW ACHIMOWIN OKIMY’WINI ACHIMOWIN FROM THE CHIEF COMMUNITY GOVERNMENT Monthly Update Fishers Able to Sell their Fish CRD Licensing Consultation on Progress 2 to their Own Markets 6 Gathers NCN Input 9

AUGUST 2016

Nisichawayasi ᓂᓯᒐᐘᔭᓯᕽ ᓀᐦᐁᖪᐍᐱᐢᑭᑎᕐᑲᐢ

NCN Local Runners Take Part in Annual 940 km Relay Unity Run

Eleven Nisichawayasihk youth runners and a group led by chaperones and elders achieved an amazing goal of running a relay-style 940 kilometre trek from Pimiciamak Nation (Cross Lake) to (near the Pas) then to Fisher River Cree Nation. Held from August 1–4, 2016, the run was part of an annual gathering called The Unity Run. The event affirms what people have known and practiced for centuries; that unity within our families, communities and nations is our greatest strength. The run itself lasts three full days, travelling hundreds of kilometres each day, but the fun for the NCN team dressed in yellow started at camp with an opening ceremony breakfast and prayer prior to the start. During the ceremonies the Unity Run promotes aspects of the medicine wheel, through age-old and timeless Spiritual, Mental, Emotional, and Physical teachings. Sacred pipes were Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation youth line up for traditional ceremonies at annual Unity Run. present and travelled with the Elders, youth and chaperones on the Unity Run. future runs or would like to volunteer is asked contact Darcy lives of others! Their goal is Each team had to have 10 runners at all times doing relays Linklater by email [email protected]. to build solidarity amongst of a minimum 10 kilometres at a time and each team doing our people, free from alcohol a maximum of 100 km per day. Teams camped each night Keeping the Unity Spirit Alive and drugs, and eliminate beginning in Cross Lake, stopping in The Pas, then Fairford The Nisichawayasihk Unity Runners have run across this pain and violence within our and finishing in Fisher River Cree Nation to open the “2016 country in the past several years to bring healing not only community. National Cree Gathering Ceremonies.” to our people but all human beings and creation. They have Darcy Linklater Jr. and Congratulations to our runners and their amazing sacrificed themselves for others in the same way that our Sam Hall are two of the accomplishment. It is with pride and respect that we congratulate ancestors sacrificed themselves to us. original Unity runners who Bradley Hunter, Sam Hall, Logan Moore, Keyan Moore, Darius These unity runs are not only about running. They are ran across this country to Linklater, Nicole Brightnose, Heaven Hunter, Darcy Linklater Jr., about ceremonies and spirituality; they pray for people. bring awareness of Cree Deedrin Linkater, Cynthia Hunter and Von Hunter. They acquire teachings and learn from others as they make culture to the Canadian NCN has participated in the Unity Run for over 10 years friendships and relationships. public. Now, their sons are and hosted past runs. Anyone interested in participating in They want to make a difference in their lives and in the Continued on Page 5

Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation ᓂᓯᒐᐘᔭᓯᕽ ᓀᐦᐁᖪᐍᐱᐢᑭᑎᕐᑲᐢ 1 OKIMAHKAN OTY’AMIWIN From the Chief

Tansi! next seven generations. I hope you had a fabulous time at our Each member of Council Summer Festival. What a great way to is making a difference in celebrate our culture and our traditions numerous ways, short and and to engage with our youth and long term. This month, the generations of the future. I was so as the national inquiry is proud to participate in various events being launched into why such as the arrow shooting with my so many of our women own grandson. For over forty years and children go missing, now I have had very fond memories of I want to acknowledge our Summer Festival as it has marked the importance of having NCN Golf Youth Participants. the changing of the seasons, the time gender balance on our to get ready for a change from the lazy, Council. Women are life hazy, warm summer days spent on our givers in our culture. Our existing laws to ensure our businesses continue to thrive. lakes and rivers, to the fall and winter, Chief Moody officially opens the female Councillors bring We will be sending out a special newsletter shortly and holding meetings at the beginning of school and fall hunting 2016 NCN Summer Festival. unique perspectives to the NCN in the fall so a vote can be held before Christmas. The only major holdup to ensure we can survive through the work we are undertaking now is the finalization of the lease terms. I will update you in further newsletters. winter. We had more people having on your behalf. fun and participating in the events than Just look at the fabulous picture of balloons being released over Footprint NCN Community Store ever before. I congratulate everyone Lake in last month’s newsletter in celebration of our ancestors and their final We face the same issue related to our store. We must designate the land as who took the time to participate. It was resting places. This event would not have happened without the dedicated we did for the NCN Personal Care Home and ATEC for specific purposes so so great to see the interaction between planning of Councillor Shirley Linklater, a long time advocate for many development can take place. We will be including information about the store families and friends. Way to go NCN! community improvement projects and the safety of women and children. designation in the newsletter and community meetings. Let’s do everything we can to continue I also want to recognize the important contributions Councillor Bonnie building community spirit as it is so Linklater has made to understanding the importance of healthy living through Constitution uplifting and essential for all of us to sport as she daily encourages youth to continue their education and participate We have been discussing our Constitution for a number of years. It is feel connected to our history and in sport. increasingly apparent we need our own laws so we can develop our lands and our future. Being a member of Chief and Council requires team work each and every resources and have more control over our day to day lives. The Indian Act is an As I reread my message from the day. With this in mind, I want to outline some of our recent successes and some archaic piece of legislation in many ways. The land designation process is the past few summers, I was reminded of of the challenges we will be facing as school starts this year. most recent example. how proud I am that we have been Our plan is to provide additional information concurrently with the land able to continue the Mystery Lake Conversion and Land designation processes for the hotel and store and to have community meetings important rebuilding Designation followed by a vote hopefully in late January. We would like to then use our own of our Nation. We only At long last, the Mystery Lake Hotel property lawmaking process to develop NCN laws as indicated by the UN Declaration on have to look at the we have owned for almost two decades, was the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and supported by the Truth and Reconciliation determination and focus converted to reserve lands. We have seen Commission’s work. of our Citizens who almost immediate benefits. For example, we We will also need to negotiate various jurisdictional issues with other levels have faced adversity can now offer tobacco and other products tax of government and in the process decide how much responsibility and liability and continue to be role free. The increase in our VLT revenues based on we want to assume. The current land code process involves a major transfer of models. For example, the current formula for operations on reserve both responsibility and liability but under different federal legislation. We will Lydia Penner cut her lands has allowed us to commit to core funding need to decide if that process or a different option is the best way forward for dialysis treatments in for ATEC so our youth will have training and NCN given what we have been half just so she could employment opportunities well into the future. able to achieve to date. But one participate in our NCN We anticipate our Nation will also benefit from point I want to make again is that Golf Tournament. Talk further tax rebates and NCN Citizens employed establishing and maintaining good about positive role on our new reserve lands will see income working relationships with the City models. tax savings which we hope will help facilitate of Thompson and other levels of The past few years employment. But we need your support to government is important as we need have reminded me again expand our Vision for this land further. cooperation and goodwill to achieve about why it is essential We need to ensure the continued success of what we want for our Nation. that we stay focussed our hotel. We want to make other investments. and committed to the Lydia Penner receives prize We plan to develop a gas station as soon as High School projects we undertake. from Chief Moody at NCN possible and then to take our time to develop We are facing major challenges Together we can Golf Tourney. the rest of this property to maximize benefits with the current school Youth enjoy the day of golf. overcome many of the for our Nation today and in the future. We want infrastructure, which needs ongoing challenges we to achieve the best possible outcomes for our major repairs to be considered continue to face. Nation and are committed to figuring out the best way to proceed. We look safe. Upon receiving a report As we reach the mid-point of forward to hearing your ideas as this important project is developed. that flagged concerns about the stability of the current structure, Council the election cycle, I want to let you We cannot use our equity to finance other investments or continue immediately struck a Committee to consider options. We are now waiting for know I have heard your voices and operating the hotel as we have in the past unless the land is designated in further reports to determine our best course of action. At a recent meeting they guide me in all the steps I take. accordance with the Indian Act. We need to have lease arrangement in place for with the INAC Regional Director General, it was indicated we are still 4 to 5 years I want to take a moment to thank the hotel and this can’t be done until we have approved the designation of the away from getting a new high school. But we were able to obtain a commitment you again for having confidence in lands for this purpose. to undertake a feasibility study shortly. my Council colleagues and I to make I understand this all seems like a rather crazy process given how long we have For now, the most viable option for classes is to have split shifts at OK School. the hard choices that we all hope will owned and operated our hotel. But, when others make the laws and we don’t This means that early and middle years classes will be from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. help our community to thrive for the have any different arrangements in place we need to be pragmatic and use the and high school classes will be from 2:45 p.m. to 8:45 p.m.

Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation ᓂᓯᒐᐘᔭᓯᕽ ᓀᐦᐁᖪᐍᐱᐢᑭᑎᕐᑲᐢ 2 Nisichawayasi ᓂᓯᒐᐘᔭᓯᕽ ᓀᐦᐁᖪᐍᐱᐢᑭᑎᕐᑲᐢ AUGUST 2016 Chief’s message continued from Page 2

We remain committed to building a new high school and providing the best safe. They are trying to implement the rules established by our NCN hope to establish a positive working solutions possible for students. In the meantime, we plan to fix the existing high Government. The statistics show that without limits on the alcohol coming into relationship with them so that they school facility. It is expected the shared schedule with the OK School will only be our community, the number of assaults increased along with the number of understand the issues facing us needed until October or November. visits to the nursing station. Please remember this and treat our Constables with from poorly maintained roads into The Committee had considered alternatives like transporting students to respect. They deserve our thanks, not hostility and negative reactions to their our community. While we continue different sites within NCN; transporting our students to Thompson to the attempt to enforce the rules established by Chief and Council. As I have said advocating about these issues, be UCN facility or RD Parker; and cancelling nursery and kindergarten to free up many times before, do not support the bootleggers, drug dealers and gangs as cautious on the causeways and while classroom space. None of these were viable for reasons such as safety, disruption all of them bring negative social issues into our community and without support driving on Highways 620 and 391. The of critical preschool education and the history of residential schools. from NCN Citizens they would not be able to operate within NCN territory. rainfall this year has resulted in a lot of We want to get more feedback from you over the next while so we can The ongoing social consequences of alcohol, drugs and violence in our slumping, washboard, pot holes and examine all viable options as part of the feasibility study so we do not have a community means we must provide safe places for our Citizens, usually women broken pavement. repeat of the problems that occurred two years ago. We recognize our students and children to escape to. We have applied for funding for a shelter to help As always I welcome your feedback deserve the best education possible and the facilities to succeed. address safety issues some of our friends and relatives face on a daily basis. We and input, so let me know your thoughts. must find better solutions that will prevent such violent actions from being part Constable and Related Programs of our community. It is time for all of us to reflect on solutions to this sad reality Ekosani and I wish all of our students, As you know, violence, often fueled by alcohol, drugs and gang activity, has as the inquiry on missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls is finally teachers and administrators a continued to plague our community. In response to your concerns, Council has being launched. successful school year. ensured that the NCN Constable program continues to operate concurrently with the RCMP. Unfortunately, we continue to receive reports about Roads and Causeways disrespectful actions toward our Constables. Remember they are hired to help We are still trying to get some of this road work done this year. It is our Chief Marcel Moody protect our community and keep our Citizens and visitors to our community understanding the new provincial government is examining its priorities. We Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation Improving First Nation Health Benefits: Your Opinion Matters! Would you like to see the health of our community improve? Wellness (also known as Short Term Do you receive non-insured health benefits? Do you currently Crisis Intervention Mental Health or want to help a friend or family member receive Non- Counselling), Dental, and Vision Insured Health Benefits (NIHB)? Your feedback is needed and Benefits have been assessed. important! To conduct this review, the AFN and The Assembly of FNIHB are surveying residents, health First Nations (AFN) and The goals of the review care professionals and service providers. the First Nations and are to enhance Citizens’ The goals of the review are to enhance Inuit Health Branch access to benefits; Citizens’ access to benefits; deal with AFN and FNIHB are seeking First Nations feedback (FNIHB) are conducting deal with the gaps and the gaps and problems in receiving by conducting a Health Survey. an in-depth review of problems in receiving benefits; streamline services to be more the NIHB Program. Six benefits; streamline helpful for clients; and increase the efficiency of the Program. If you would prefer to write different benefit areas Both organizations hope that results from the survey will help to about your opinion, submit are being examined services to be more address the most crucial needs in Nelson House, and to ensure no more than five pages to and an individual report helpful for clients; and budgets are in place for the most common concerns. [email protected]. Please will be created for increase the efficiency The joint review began in September 2014 and is expected to specify which NIHB benefit each. So far, Mental of the Program. present its results in the summer of 2017. The Steering Committee you are addressing, and discuss is led by an elder and composed of the challenges you face in First Nations and FNIHB staff with the receiving these benefits, what authority to make program changes. an ideal process might look Go to www.afn.ca for more information like, and what specific changes about the health benefits review. could be made. The success of this review depends The pharmacy survey on the opinions of First Nations and the medical supplies and NCN Citizens. The Steering and equipment survey will Committee would like to hear about be set up and ready for your your experiences. For a quick way opinions until November to voice your opinion, you can do a 2016. You can expect to survey about Medical Transportation hear more about feedback, until October 8, 2016 at www. recommendations and www.surveymonkey.com/r/TCBPK26 surveymonkey.com/r/TCBPK26 changes at www.afn.ca.

3 Nisichawayasi Nethowi Piskituskan KITITAHWINAOW ACHIMOWIN Community News Young NCN Woman Battles Disease to Reach Goals Kendra Nancy Joy Brightnose, Children’s Hospital in . Her visits to the hospital was also given daughter of Ken Brightnose were very frequent and necessary as she was dealing with a the Governor and Cynthia Hartie, was born disease that almost took her life. Kendra proved that Lupus, General in Thompson, on as unpredictable as it is, was not going to get the best of her. Medal for Friday, November 13, 1998. Through her determination she continued her treatments and Academic Kendra grew up in Nelson still visits the doctors on a regular basis. Achievement. House within a large family Kendra graduated from grade 8 in 2012. Back then she was Kendra and has asked to be valedictorian and much to her has had a part always been Kendra was dealing mom’s disappointment turned down the time job while observant with a disease that offer, telling her mom that she will accept the attending and quiet almost took her life. opportunity to be the valedictorian in grade high school Upon graduation, Kendra received many in her 12. Four years later she stood up for her class and she awards including the Governor General own way. in front of the auditorium and presented her continues to Medal for Academic Achievement. She had done very well in speech to the whole community. She is only 17. Kendra excelled set her sights primary school but was in many of her subjects and received the highest achievements on more dealt a struggle that would in English-Language Arts, highest achievement in Social Studies, accomplishments; she will be leaving in a few days to pursue prove to be a life long illness highest achievement in Pre-calculus Mathematics, and the her education at one of ’s most prestigious universities, that she still maintains highest achievement overall in Mathematics. She also received she will be attending Trent University in Peterborough, Ontario. today. Kendra has endured the Wuskwatim Partnership Award and she was also presented Kendra continues her quiet demeanour, observant as ever visits to the doctor at the with an award of Excellence for outstanding Achievement and – Tweety’s time to fly has come – SOAR! Notice CALL FOR APPLICATIONS DATES Timeline for CAP/CIP Process By June 15 Issue the call for applications (posters are posted) NISICHAWAYASIHK TRUST TASKINIGAHP TRUST Community Approval Process (CAP) Community Involvement Process (CIP) By September 15 Application Deadline By September 30 Trust Director shall submit a summary of applications to the Applications for the use of Nisichawayasihk Trust and Taskinigahp NISICHAWAYASIHK CAP/CIP Committee. Trust monies for the 2017 calendar year are now being accepted. CREE NATION Applicants shall receive a notification on receipt of application. trust office Application forms are available on the NCN Trust Office’s By October 15 CAP/CIP Committee completes preliminary review of applications. website at www.trustoffice.ca and from Lorraine Parisien at the By October 30 The applications will be presented by the applicants to the NCN Trust Office. members before the CAP/CIP Committee. Application submission will be accepted up until Applicants will be contacted via letter or email on date of meeting. 4:00 p.m. on September 15, 2016. Community meeting to hear presentations by applicants. LATE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCE By November 15 CAP/CIP Committee to recommend projects and budgets to Please submit your applications to Joyce Yetman or Lorraine Parisien at the Trust Office. Chief and Council. Trust Director will present recommended budget and Annotation In order to ensure that all members are informed of these meetings, they Summary proposed budget to Chief and Council. will be advertised in all public places, NCN Trust Office and through our local By December 15 Chief and Council will formally adopt the 2017 Nisichawayasihk radio station. To obtain more information about the above-noted Trusts, and Taskinigahp (CAP/CIP) budgets pursuant to Article 8.5 of the contact Joyce Yetman, Trust Director, Nisi Trust Indenture and Article 8.8 of the Task Trust Indenture NCN Trust Office @ 204-484-2604/204-679-0506. subsequent to the CAP/CIP meeting.

Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation ᓂᓯᒐᐘᔭᓯᕽ ᓀᐦᐁᖪᐍᐱᐢᑭᑎᕐᑲᐢ 4 Nisichawayasi ᓂᓯᒐᐘᔭᓯᕽ ᓀᐦᐁᖪᐍᐱᐢᑭᑎᕐᑲᐢ AUGUST 2016 Continued from Page 1

running with them. Logan ran with his father, Sam, and Darius raising money for a charity called Tori’s Run, and Keyan ran with their father Darcy Jr. which supported the The late Dakota Hunter was also a Canadian Cancer unity runner. His spirit was among the “We seem to have lost our Society. Dakota runners. His mother Cynthia and brother dignity and this unity run celebrated his 17th Von also ran in his loving memory. is about healing, sacrifice, birthday on July The late Dakota Hunter strived to and reclaiming hope and 20, 2009, two days create awareness and spoke against dignity for our youth.” before he was brutally violence. He participated with lance murdered. runners society, a Cree organization His memory has dedicated to eliminating violence. He was also involved in been lit once again and it is hoped that the torch he passed on will continue to burn with a glorious flame. We need to understand the impacts of the historical trauma that was inflicted on the people due to colonization. The impacts are still evident in the lives of individuals, families and communities. This negative experience has caused deep breakdowns in social functioning that may last for many years, decades and even generations. awareness and understanding “We seem to have lost our dignity and this unity run is throughout this country as about healing, sacrifice, and reclaiming hope and dignity for far as B.C., northern Quebec, our youth.” northern Ontario, and The Unity runners appreciate the continued support through the prairies. from NCN leadership and for allowing the youth to create Tradition of Sharing at Cree Nation Gathering In Fisher River The message at this year’s National Cree Gathering on August ceremonies, sweat lodges, teaching lodges/ 4th was “Ininiwi Pimatisiwin” translated into English means workshops, feasts and a round dance. The workshops “reconnecting our Cree way of life.” had lessons of prophecies, environment/sacred sites, The heart and message of the gathering is clear, if we are to natural law, women’s teachings, traditional parenting, retain our language, culture, ceremonies and teachings we need rights of passage, Big Bear pipe teaching, Creation to involve and share with the youth the traditional teachings stories, the four aspects of life, language, a ghost and pass on the knowledge and wisdom of our elders through dance and sovereignty. the Cree language. A highlight of the event is the unity run, where NCN Elder Darcy Linklater was The three-day gathering brought Cree Elders, youth, young athletes/individuals (male and female), honoured with a buffalo hand drum in visitors, dignitaries and communities together to share and accompanied by parents, elders, peers and memory of Chief Louis Stephenson. learn about Cree traditions, ceremonies and teachings. The community/support people, ran from gathering provided the opportunity for our youth to connect Cree Nation to Opaskwayak Cree Nation, The next Cree Nation with the elders to learn about the importance of retaining and Pinemotang and then to Fisher River Cree Nation. Gathering has not been preserving our Cree language and culture. On the third day, NCN Elder Darcy Linklater was formally announced. It is The gathering has also been bringing the message of the honoured with a buffalo hand drum in memory of Chief Louis custom for the next Nation significance of the Cree history, way of life, ceremonies in hopes Stephenson who worked hard for his people. Only five of wishing to hold the gathering of reconciling the past with our future – for our children and these hand drums were made. Darcy got the fourth one for to accept the Cree Nation youth. the many years of service for NCN and his service beyond the bundle as a symbol of their The National Cree Gathering activities included sunrise boundaries of his ancestral homeland. role to host the annual event.

5 Nisichawayasi Nethowi Piskituskan Manitoba Fishers to be Allowed to Market Their Own Product Thanks to changes in the Locally, the Nelson House Fisherman Association (NHFA) fishing industry, NCN fish is governed by a six-member board and employs part-time harvesters and fishers around manager Ed Primrose, a seasonal grader, packer/runner and the province will soon be 20-licensed fisherman. The NHFA’s commercial harvest operates able to sell their own catch over three seasons. The winter harvest runs approximately 6-8 to any market they choose weeks from late February to mid-April, depending on ice and by themselves. The change weather conditions. The spring harvest runs 5-8 weeks from could have a massive impact June 1 to mid-July, the fall harvest is in operation for 8-9 weeks on fishers and their profits. from late August to October 20 of each year. Past harvests have Currently, yielded over 70,000 kilograms annually for Manitoba “... if we can find total fish values over $100,000 per year. fishers must Primrose says the news has its pros sell their markets willing and cons, “the current process using the catch through to pay a fair price, marketing board (FFMC) allows our fishers the federal potentially more the use of transportation, fish tubs and Freshwater fishers could other mechanisms provided to make it Fish benefit.” easier for our fishers to get their harvest Marketing Ed Primrose, NHFA Manager to market. FFMC also distributes to a wide Corporation range of markets that would be harder for (FFMC). But our fishers to reach.” on August 17, the province of Ed also believes the decision could strengthen the NHFA, Manitoba fishers have more options for selling their fish. Manitoba officially withdrew if their fish can be sold for higher prices. “The FFMC sets the its participation, which price of fish, often the price is low. This makes it hard for fishers free market has its critics, including the NDP opposition was a promise the Pallister to cover their cost of equipment and earn a living. But if we can government. Rob Altemeyer is the NDP MLA for Wolseley and government made before find markets willing to pay a fair price, potentially more fishers the critic for Environment and Green Jobs. they were voted into power. could benefit.” He told the Winnipeg Free Press, “our questions right now The FFMC will continue The commercial fishing industry creates income of close to are: how do we make sure that the fishery stays sustainable, to exist for fishers who prefer $22 million for almost 500 Manitoba fishers and how do you make sure that all fishers — to continue in the same way every year. The most typical species — no matter how big or small they are, where they always have, but many are walleye, goldeye, northern pike, sauger, lake It can make it better they’re located in the province — that all of excited for the option to market whitefish and lake trout — are sold across for NCN and it could them are going to benefit from this?” their own product themselves. Canada and around the world to places make an economic Primrose said he is cautiously optimistic such as the United difference for the about the decision. States, Israel, China community to harvest “It can make it better for NCN and it and Europe. could make an economic difference for the Many fishers say and market our own community to harvest and market our own that when selling fish. Ideally we can fish. Ideally we can potentially get a better product through the potentially get a better rate for our fish. If we can sell more – the FFMC, they were held rate for our fish. opportunity is there for the dollars to go up back by its standards, to a quarter of a million. I would also like to such as limiting the see more fishers make a living catching fish species it chose to market. Having the and not have to leave to take other jobs, simply because they chance to sell their own products means are underpaid for their catch.” fishers could tap into markets which The provincial government says it’s establishing an envoy to Pickerel is among the most profitable freshwater fish in Manitoba. appreciate other species. ensure the transition to an open market will happen smoothly But the decision to move to a with regulations strictly followed.

Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation ᓂᓯᒐᐘᔭᓯᕽ ᓀᐦᐁᖪᐍᐱᐢᑭᑎᕐᑲᐢ 6 Nisichawayasi ᓂᓯᒐᐘᔭᓯᕽ ᓀᐦᐁᖪᐍᐱᐢᑭᑎᕐᑲᐢ AUGUST 2016

Notice/Advertisement

JOIN US AT TREATIES 1-11 SPECIAL MEETING Citizens, Leadership and the Indian Act Self-Determination, Empowerment and Decolonization August 30, 31 and September 1, 2016 Keystone Arena (New Location), Brandon, MB (Monday, August 29, 2016 – Camp Day and Ceremonies at Keystone grounds) Day 1 – Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2016 Day 2 – Wednesday, Aug. 31, 2016 Day 3 – Thursday, Sept. 1, 2016 7:00 a.m. Sunrise Ceremony 9:00 a.m. Elder’s Blessing for the Day 9:00 a.m. Elder’s Blessing for the Day 9:00 a.m. Grand Entry Traditional Protocol – Sacred Bundles/Pipes 9:15 a.m. Disengaging from the Indian Act – Grand Chief 9:15 a.m. Recap of Previous 2 days Invocation by Elder A.J. Felix Derek Nepinak, AMC What Was Said Co-Chairs and Facilitators 10:30 a.m. Sacredness of Treaties – Elder’s Convocation of Special 10:00 a.m. Discussion from the plenary shaping the Meeting Treaties 1-11 Agenda: Sovereignty and 10:00 a.m. National Strategies – National Elder Harry Bone. Commentary by Elder Dave Courchene Jr. Self-Determination: Restoring First Nation Chief Perry Bellegarde – TBC Governments, Treaty Implementation, Fiscal 11:00 a.m. Review of Agenda, Special Announcements and Meeting 11:00 a.m. Minister Carolyn Bennett, Relations and Reclamation of Lands and Protocols Minister of 1NAC TBC Resources Facilitated by Joan Jack. Commentary Co-Chairpersons – Ron Lameman, Treaty 8 Minister Jody Wilson- by Elder Harry Bone Dennis White Bird, Treaty 4 Raybould, Attorney General Topics of interest: – TBC 11:30 a.m. Hosts Welcoming • AFN Resolutions of July 2016 12:00 p.m. LUNCH • Recognition/Application of UNDRIP 1:00 p.m. Plan of Action – Plenary • Canada’s Reconciliation Framework Discussion 1:15 p.m. Aspects of Meeting “Decolonization, Empowerment and Self- • Canada’s Fiscal Relations with First Nations 2:00 p.m. Closing Ceremonies Determination” – Sol Sanderson, FSIN Senator • Going Beyond the Indian Act 2:00 p.m. Restoring First Nation Governments and Disengaging from 12:00 p.m. LUNCH the Indian Act Plenary Discussion – Facilitated by Regena Crowchild. Commentary by Elder Elmer Courchene 1:00 p.m. Special Presentations by Treaties 1-11 3:30 p.m. Youth Presentation – “What We Want.” 4:30 p.m. Co-Chairs – Recap and Review of Tomorrow’s Commentary by Elder Albert Taylor Agenda 7:00 p.m. Treaties 1-11 Caucus Meetings (Optional) 7:00 p.m. Citizen and leadership Forum

CALLING FOR SACRED STAFFS FLAGS, HEADDRESSES, SACRED BUNDLES AND PIPES Citizens, Leadership and the Indian Act Self-Determination, Empowerment and Decolonization Treaties 1-11 Special Meeting August 30, 31 and September 1, 2016 Keystone Arena, Brandon, MB

We are inviting all Staffs, Flags, Headdresses, Women (Celebrating our Identity) For more information Shawls, sacred Bundles and Pipes to be part of the opening Traditional attire encouraged : Traditional vests, ribbon shirts, contact: ceremonies at the Treaties 1-11 Meeting on August 30, 31 traditional dresses, moccasins and other traditional wear. AMC at (204) 956-0610 and September 1, 2016. Sunrise Ceremony: A sunrise ceremony will be held at 7 a.m. Chief M. Clearsky, Host on August 30 on the grounds of the Keystone Area. Ceremony conducted by Elder Wally Swain.

7 Nisichawayasi Nethowi Piskituskan PUSIKONISOWINI ACHIMOWIN Business News 2017 NCN Trust Monies Available to Applicants – Apply Before Sept. 15!

Many NCN Citizens are How Are Funds Distributed? paperwork in person or by registered mail before the deadline. already familiar with the Trust The income from both funds is If you are applying for CAP/CIP application process and rules, generated and distributed every year. funding, please give yourself time to do but for new organizations To decide the best way to spend this All NCN agencies, all the required bookkeeping. You will and individuals applying for money, the Nisichawayasihk Trust uses corporations, need to submit pieces such as budget, the first time, the process and the Community Approval Process departments and Citizens financial statement, vision and policies. understanding what funds (CAP). The Taskinigahp Trust follows can apply for funding from Please contact Trust Office Director are available can be a new a similar procedure and calls it the either or both Trusts Joyce Yetman at (204) 484-2604 for learning experience. Simply Community Involvement Process (CIP). more information or assistance with the put, NCN holds trusts, and All applications are reviewed at meetings application. uses income from them each in which Trustees evaluate each proposal for its benefits to the Because of the large number of submissions every year, year to support community community and the long-term impact for NCN. incomplete and/or late applications will not be considered. This programs and projects that year’s deadline is 4:00 p.m., Friday, September 15, 2016. improve daily life for all of our Who Gets Funding? Citizens. Successful submissions promise to create jobs and have a positive impact on the community’s What are NCN’s social, cultural, educational, economical and Trusts? physical needs. In the past, trust money has gone Two of the trusts are the to widely varied projects such as pow wows, elder The Nisichawayasihk Trust subsidies, decentralization governance, school and the Taskinigahp Trust. mould remediation, Christmas Cheer Board, water The Nisichawayasihk Trust treatment plant, employment training, literacy was created in 1996 as an projects, steel garbage bins, housing and many agreement between NCN, other community programs. the federal and provincial governments, and Manitoba Who Can Apply for Hydro. The basis of this trust CAP/CIP Funding? is the $64.9 million NCN All NCN agencies, corporations, departments received in compensation and Citizens can apply for funding from either or for damages caused by the both Trusts (individuals must have the support Churchill River Diversion. of an NCN organization). Support received from The Taskinigahp Trust the Trusts is not supposed to be the only source was established in 2006 with of funding, but instead act as top-up money in the start of the Wuskwatim addition to support from the federal government Generation Project. The initial or other sources. compensation, and NCN’s You can apply for CAP/CIP funding online revenue shares from the sale at www.trustoffice.ca. If you prefer, you can Application forms are available online at trustoffice.ca or at the Trust of Wuskwatim electricity, is download the application form (or pick it up Office (204) 484-2604. included in the Trust. at the Trust Office) and then submit it and all

Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation ᓂᓯᒐᐘᔭᓯᕽ ᓀᐦᐁᖪᐍᐱᐢᑭᑎᕐᑲᐢ 8 Nisichawayasi ᓂᓯᒐᐘᔭᓯᕽ ᓀᐦᐁᖪᐍᐱᐢᑭᑎᕐᑲᐢ AUGUST 2016 Medicine Lodge Assigns New Interim Executive Director Laurel Wood has been the and how it affects not just graduates, but the entire community. other people,” says Wood. She new boss at the Nelson House “Positive change is difficult to imagine and difficult to do,” will serve as interim executive Medicine Lodge for only a few Wood says. “But if even one person keeps up their sobriety and director until the end of 2016, weeks, but she hit the ground teaches their friends and family about what they’ve learned, it’s a at which point the role will be running. good experience.” filled or given to Wood. “We just had a graduation Nelson House Medicine Lodge was established in August Among Azure’s many ceremony this morning for 19 1989 to meet a growing need for a counselling and addictions achievements was leading the men,” Wood says. “One visitor treatment facility in . It was the first alcohol Lodge through an extensive said she could really feel the and drug treatment facility renovation that increased spirit. It was such a good vibe.” Laurel is proud in the area with programs its ability to serve clients. He While it’s her first specifically designed for also created the Honour Laurel Wood, Interim Executive Director, Nelson graduation as the boss, Wood is of the work that Aboriginal people, by Wall, which pays respect Houlse Medicine Lodge not new to the Medicine Lodge. happens at Medicine Aboriginal people, with an to community members, She’s been a board member for Lodge and how it aim to tackle addictions from partners, board members and 17 years, and began work at the affects the entire an Indigenous perspective. graduates. It’s a way to instill pride, Wood says, which is a crucial administration manager in 2014. community. The first executive part of healing and overcoming addiction. Wood was born and raised director was Myra Hart, “There are people here who don’t understand their own in Nelson House, and aside followed by Teresa Yetman, background and culture, because of assimilation. But at the from three years in Dauphin and then Ed Azure, who completed his work at Medicine Lodge Medicine Lodge they learn about themselves, addiction causes to complete high school, she at the end of July. and effects, and our history.” has spent her entire life here. “Ed is very kind-hearted and a good person. He is very To that end, Wood welcomes all community members to She is proud of the work that spiritual and was great with all the ceremonies. I will never be sweats at the Medicine Lodge every Thursday afternoon. happens at Medicine Lodge able to fill his shoes, but he was a great mentor to me and many “It gets people back to our culture. It’s pretty powerful.”

OKIMY’WINI ACHIMOWIN Government News Important CRD Licensing Consultation Gathering NCN Input Public meetings were held communities, including NCN. The process will determine possible Manitoba will then make on August 9th, followed by Citizens will have impacts on the exercise of Treaty and Aboriginal rights arising from a decision about finalizing the small group sessions the next opportunities for Manitoba’s decision to finalize the terms and conditions in the CRD terms and conditions up day, to discuss the comments feedback regarding CRD licence to the year 2026. to 2026. and concerns regarding the the Churchill River A booth was set up at the NCN Summer Festival (August NCN Citizens are Churchill River Diversion 15-20, 2016) to give NCN Citizens a further opportunity to learn encouraged to learn more by Licensing Agreement, Water Diversion Licensing more and provide any comments about the CRD licence issue. reading the information on Power Act Licence and to Agreement. NCN’s Engineer, Legal Counsel and Chief and Council will prepare ncncree.com and the recent gather further input from a draft report of all comments from both the August meetings and Special Update newsletter NCN Citizens. In the coming weeks, NCN Citizens will have from the NCN Summer Festival. This Summary will be submitted to delivered to homes. You opportunities for additional feedback and a summary of the issues Manitoba in advance of the meeting on August 31, 2016. are asked to provide your will be put together for submission to Manitoba for consideration. In September 2016 there will be a response from Manitoba comments to Joyce Yetman or Manitoba, as part of its consideration and review of Hydro’s along with a further opportunity for NCN to respond to Monica Linklater at the NCN request, is undergoing a consultation process with CRD-affected Manitoba’s draft report. Trust Office (204) 484-2604. 9 Nisichawayasi Nethowi Piskituskan 20 Things You Should Know About The Indian Act By D’Arcy Linklater We have all heard of the Indian Act in one-way shape or form. You borrow money to may or may not know the many ways it has impacted our First purchase assets; and Nations. There are some important details everyone should be matrimonial property aware of when it comes to our understanding of the Indian Act. laws don’t apply to Did you know the Indian Act has been in place for over 140 assets on reserve. years? The Indian Act is the primary legislation used to govern The Act has also The Indian Act has been amended several times over the years and First Nations people and has been for nearly a century and a half. been criticized by today its relevance is highly debated. The Act has been a lightning rod for criticism and non-Aboriginal controversy over the years, widely attacked by First Nations Peoples and politicians people and communities for its regressive and paternalistic as being too paternalistic and creating an unjust system with 1869 until 1985 (116 years), if excesses. For example, Status Indians living on reserves don’t excessive costs that are considered uneconomical. an Indian woman married a own the land they live on; assets on reserve are not subject The Indian Act gave Canada a coordinated approach to non-Indian man, she and the to seizure under legal process making it extremely difficult to Indian policy rather than the pre-Confederation piece-meal children of the marriage were approach. denied Indian status. In 1985, “The great aim of our legislation has been to do away the Indian Act was amended with the tribal system and assimilate the Indian people in by the passage of Bill C-31 to all respects with the other inhabitants of the Dominion remove discrimination against as speedily as they are fit to change,” stated John A. women. In 1985, Bill C-31 Macdonald, in 1887. was introduced for gender Indigenous Corporate Training Inc. has put together a equality and human rights. compelling list of 20 restrictions imposed at some point by It is no secret The Act the Indian Act in its 140 years of existence (see below). has imposed great personal As mentioned, major amendments were made to the and cultural tragedy on Act in 1951 and 1985. In the 1951 amendments, the banning First Nations, many of of dances and ceremonies, and the pursuit of claims against which continue to affect In 1881, Indian agents were given the authority to act as justices the government were removed. communities, families and of the peace on the reserves for which they were responsible. Other amendments had to be made. For instance, from individuals today.

DID YOU KNOW? 20 Remarkable Facts About

1. Denied women status. other public works, as well as 1927 amendmentThe granted Indian the 16. ForbadeAct: western First Nations 2. Introduced residential schools. move an entire reserve away government control over the from appearing in any public 3. Created reserves. from a municipality if it was ability of First Nations to pursue dance, show, exhibition, 4. Renamed individuals with deemed expedient. land claims). stampede or pageant wearing European names. 8. Could lease out uncultivated 11. Prohibited the sale of alcohol traditional regalia. 5. Restricted First Nations from reserve lands to non-First and the sale of ammunition to 17. Declared potlatch and other leaving reserve without Nations if the new leaseholder First Nations. cultural ceremonies illegal. permission from Indian would use it for farming or 12. Prohibited pool hall owners from 18. Denied First Nations the agent. The pass policy in 1885 pasture. allowing First Nations entrance. right to vote. controlled the movement of First 9. Forbade First Nations from 13. Imposed the “band 19. Created a permit system to Nation people off reserves. forming political organizations. council” system. control First Nations ability to 6. Enforced enfranchisement 10. Prohibited anyone, First Nation or 14. Forbade First Nations from sell products from farms. of any First Nation admitted non-First Nation, from soliciting speaking their native language. 20. Created under the British rule for to university. funds for First Nation legal claims 15. Forbade First Nations from the purpose of subjugating one 7. Could expropriate portions of without special license from the practicing their traditional race – Aboriginal Peoples. reserves for roads, railways and Superintendent General (this religion.

Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation ᓂᓯᒐᐘᔭᓯᕽ ᓀᐦᐁᖪᐍᐱᐢᑭᑎᕐᑲᐢ 10 Nisichawayasi ᓂᓯᒐᐘᔭᓯᕽ ᓀᐦᐁᖪᐍᐱᐢᑭᑎᕐᑲᐢ AUGUST 2016

Impacts on Our People: A History Timeline of the Indian Act Portraits of Our NCN Elders Jimmy Hunter Spence 1763 Royal Proclamation recognizes ‘Nation-to-Nation’ relationship Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation (Nelson House) 1850 A law of the colony of Lower Canada defines an ‘Indian’ “I learned the importance of hard work under the watchful eye of my grandmother. She provided many teachings with 1857 The Gradual Civilization Act unconditional love. One was to thank the Creator every day Death of the ‘Nation-to-Nation’ relationship for whatever blessings we receive.” Act sets up a way for Indians to lose status: devalues the identity of Jimmy found residential school was not a bad First Nations and sets the groundwork for public opinion in Canada experience for him. He left Grade 11, eager to join the 1867 British North America Act creates Canada, July 1, 1867 workforce. A one year General Electrical course at Red River [renamed Constitution Act 1867 in 1982 amendment] Community College led to several wiring jobs in northern Law-making power split between provinces and federal government Manitoba before landing Jimmy a position with Manitoba S.91(24) law-making power of federal government includes “Indians Telephone. Jimmy wired telephones throughout the north and lands reserved for the Indians” until retirement 27 years later. Keeps authority away from local authorities with Tradition is important to Jimmy. “I want to carry on conflicting interests what we were taught. If we lose our traditions, just like if we The concept of ‘Nations’ is replaced by the idea of lose our language, we suffer the loss of our identity. Spiritually, I ‘Indian persons’ take every step with pride as a First Nation person. I respect everyone’s beliefs and ways of 1869 Gradual Enfranchisement Act worship.” Interferes with First Nation politics and self-government He is proud to be deemed a positive role model for the youth. Jimmy commented after receiving a prestigious award in 2015 for his work as an Elder: “We need to instill self- Creates elected councils with authority controlled by government confidence, motivation and pride in our young people. I want to help First Nations any way 1876 Indian Act I can – to be part of the solution.” ‘Indians’ defined narrowly without regard to family, clan, nation; many ‘Enfranchised’ Indians go to provincial responsibility You can view all 11 portraits at our 2-1100 Waverley office in Winnipeg. ‘Nation-to-Nation’ has now become the government looking after individuals who are treated like children, or ‘wards of the state’ 1876-1920s Amendments and also criminal code criminalize First Nations’ values, family relations, spiritual practices NCN Council Member 1884 Amendments are made to aid the starvation policy to subjugate the Plains Cree and break treaty promises 1894 Residential schools and compulsory education; children taken Elected to Manitoba TLEC from their families; trespass laws keep parents away NCN Councillor Willie Moore has been elected as TLEC Board of Director at the recent 1904 Taytapasahsung, ninety years old and nearly blind, sentenced to Treaty Land Entitlement Committee of Manitoba AGM held in Opaskwayak Cree Nation. Regina jail for two months with hard labour for offence of practicing Willie is familiar with the TLE process and 1997 Manitoba TLE Framework agreement. his religion The Manitoba Treaty Land Entitlement Agreement Committee represents 21 First 1951 Indian Act amendment Nations. The organization works to fulfill outstanding Treaty Land Entitlement (TLE) Returning First Nation veteran’s demand change and influence claims in Manitoba for Entitlement First Nations (EFN) represented by the TLEC. The public opinion TLE Framework Agreement attempts to settle the land debt that is owed to the First Sets up the Indian register in Ottawa Nations that did not receive all the lands that they were entitled to under Treaties 1, 3, 4, Repeals law allowing investment of ‘Indian moneys’ 5, 6 and 10. Provincial laws made to apply to Indians Each of the 21 entitlement First Nation has an appointed representative. These representatives had the opportunity to cast a ballot and of the 15 in attendance, the Government regulation authority weakens Band bylaw authority majority selected Moore to be 1982 New Constitution Act guarantees ‘Aboriginal and Treaty rights’ one of the five board members. 1985 Bill C31 Each elected director has the Amendment required by sex equality in the charter of rights opportunity to serve a two-year reinstates many women and others who lost status under term on the board. previous acts Canada has set aside a total of 1988 ‘Kamloops Amendment’ allows property taxation on reserves 462,615 acres of land as Reserve 1999 First Nations Land Management Act for Entitlement First Nations that Opt-in model of legislation to expand band powers have signed their individual Treaty Other opt-in legislation is introduced from this point on Land Entitlement agreements. 2000 Modern treaties era: Nisga’a Treaty signed, first since 1975 James Bay NCN is entitled to 61,761 acres, and Northern Quebec agreement of which approximately 33,820 TLEC Board (L-R) Councilor Johnny Anderson, Norway 2016 The constitutional principle of ‘consent,’ the political action of First acres have been converted to House Cree Nation; Chief Nelson Genialle, , President of TLEC; Councillor Willie Moore, Nations, and the duty to consult result in the requirement that the reserve, including the recent Mystery Lake Hotel Land Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation; Councillor Hubert Watt, Indian Act be amended or repealed only with the consent of the First Gods Lake First Nation and Councillor Richard Dumas, additions of 4.21 acres. Nations being first obtained. Mathias Colomb Cree Nation. Congratulation Willie!

11 Nisichawayasi Nethowi Piskituskan Nisichawayasi ᓂᓯᒐᐘᔭᓯᕽ ᓀᐦᐁᖪᐍᐱᐢᑭᑎᕐᑲᐢ Back to School Will Have to Wait! Shared Schedule possibly October or November. Classes will Planned for High be done in shifts with the elementary school school and until construction Elementary The OK school will is complete. School classes at OK administration will be used for both high notify students The NNOC high school classes and school facility and parents of the will be closed for elementary classes schedule prior to the During repairs, early and middle years classes will be from 8:30 a.m. to repairs to start the during repairs. first day of school on 2:30 p.m. and high school classes will be from 2:45 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. school year until September 6. Footprint Lake Water Levels Footprint Lake 60-Day Water Level Forecast Revised Forecast August 1 – September 30, 2016

On August 1, 2016 the level of Footprint Lake is forecasted to be 796.1 feet. The level of the lake is expected to rise 1 foot 6 inches to an elevation of 797.5 feet by the fourth week of the month and then remain fairly constant near an elevation of 797.5 feet until the end of August. During the month of September the level of the lake is expected to remain fairly constant near an elevation of 797.5 feet until the end of the month.

Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation ᓂᓯᒐᐘᔭᓯᕽ ᓀᐦᐁᖪᐍᐱᐢᑭᑎᕐᑲᐢ Do you have a suggestion or NCN on Facebook! General Delivery an Achimowina story idea? Stay current with NCN’s latest news, events Nelson House, Manitoba R0B 1A0 and updates on your computer, smartphone or We would like your comments, Phone: (204) 484-2332 device from our official NCN Facebook page. feedback or news stories. Please Fax: (204) 484-2392 contact [email protected] www.ncncree.com

Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation ᓂᓯᒐᐘᔭᓯᕽ ᓀᐦᐁᖪᐍᐱᐢᑭᑎᕐᑲᐢ 12