Issue no. 98, December 2017

Resistance, Resilience & Remembrance Day marked across the province See pages 5-7

The Honourable Dave Levac watches and MNO President Froh raises the Métis flag at the Legislature.

The Path to Métis Remembrance Community Self-Government Day events and Pages 3-4 Page 13 activities Page 14-22 40025265 Métis Voyageur 2 December 2017, Issue no. 98

The Métis Voyageur MESSAGE December 2017 FROM THE Produced by the Métis Nation of Ontario Communications Branch: Julie Cruikshank PRESIDENT Mike Fedyk MARGARET FROH Jacob May Marc St. Germain his edition of the Métis Voyageur covers the fall and the early winter, which are always

Contributors: very busy times for Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) citizens. While our harvesters Richard Aubin spend many days in the forest hunting and gathering the food that our families and Tracy Bald Colleen Brunelle communities depend on over the winter, we also keep very active organizing harvest Laura-Lee Burey Devora Cascante Tevents and other community celebrations. Through all of this activity, the important work of the Jerry Clarke MNO; advancing Métis rights and self-government continues to advance at a quickening pace. Catherine Corbett Chris Ensing Amanda Farrell MNO Registry and Self-Government recent efforts on page 13. our older citizens who continues to excel in Margaret Froh sporting competitions even while approaching Pearl Gabona Readiness Process Greg Garratt Louis Riel Day his senior years while another story talks about Steve Gjos On October 22, the Provisional Coun- one of our younger citizens who is making a Reta Gordon cil of the Métis Nation of Ontario (PCMNO) Louis Riel Day is always one of the most name for herself in synchronized swimming. Donna Grayer launched one of the most important initiatives important dates on the Métis calendar right We are also always very proud when one of Anne Huguenin in the nearly 25 year history of the MNO. The across the homeland. This year, for the first our citizens, like Ernest Matton receives the Debbie Ferris-Gianmmottalolla MNO Registry and Self-Government Readi- time and in accordance with the resolution at of Ontario; for his outstanding work in Larry J. Ferris ness Process (RSRP) will involve a review of all the last MNO Annual General Assembly, the the field of health and wellness. Yvonne Jensen Diane Kilbycc existing MNO citizenships files and is ground- provincial Louis Riel Day ceremony was not Christa Lemelin ing in solidifying the integrity of the MNO Reg- hosted at the Northwest Rebellion monument. Best of the season Glen Lipinski istry and preparing for upcoming negotiations The ceremony was moved near the Legislative Guy Mandeville on Métis rights and self-government. You can Building at Queen’s Park where it continued to This will be the last edition of the Métis Voya- Kristin McCoy read more about the RSRP on page 3. demonstrate the MNO dedication to the legacy geur for 2017. This was another banner year Yasir Naqvi The importance of moving ahead on the of Louis Riel. Stories about Louis Riel Day can for the MNO and I am grateful to be part of Joseph Paquette Verna Porter-Brunelle RSRP is highlighted by the story on page 9 be found on pages 5-7. this dynamic nation. I want to thank my fel- Lisa Poulin about the MNO’s participation in a First Min- low members of the PCMNO, the members of Melanie Rose isters meeting in October. As the MNO is Métis communities: the MNO chartered community councils, the Todd Ross actively engaging in government-to-govern- the heart of the MNO MNO Youth, Women’s, and Veterans’ Councils Susan Staves-Schank ment meetings with both the federal and pro- and all MNO citizens who took on leadership Anne Trudel vincial governments, the RSRP is an essential In every issue of the Voyageur, I am always roles or gave of themselves to make a greater Angele Watson part of ensuring the MNO is in the strongest impressed by, and grateful for, the many stories Métis Nation this year. position to move forward on negotiations that about what MNO citizens are doing to advance Next year will be the 25th anniversary of the Submissions: will bring benefit for Métis in Ontario for gen- the Métis Nation right in their own communi- founding of the MNO in 1993. It will undoubt- Communications Branch erations to come. ties. This issue features stories about numerous edly also be another landmark year on our Métis Nation Of Ontario cultural events, honouring our Métis ancestors, journey towards self-government and taking 500 Old St. Patrick Street, Unit D Remembrance Day and MNO veterans building relationships with local and provin- our proper place within Confederation. ON K1N 9G4 cial officials, taking action to reduce violence I want to wish all MNO citizens all the best mikef@ métisnation.org This issue dedicates several pages to Remem- against Indigenous women and girls and work- of the season and I look forward to sharing an Publication #: PM40025265 brance Day and the amazing work being done ing to restore the environment. Please check exciting new year with you all! by our MNO veterans. On Remembrance Day out the Community section from pages 14-22 RECENTLY MOVED OR we rightly recognize the sacrifices and con- to read about all of this incredible work. Marsee. MOVING SOON? Don’t forget tributions of our veterans through military to change your address with the service but what is perhaps most impressive Registry so that you will continue Métis success stories about our veterans is that even though they to receive your Voyageur and updated information from the have already given so much they still continue Another favourite section of mine is dedi- MNO. to give even more of themselves to the Métis cated to the achievements of our MNO citizens. Margaret Froh Nation. You can learn about some of their Starting on page 23 you can read about one of president, métis nation of ontario Call 1-855-798-1006 ext. 2 or send an email to registryclerk@Métisnation.org

SUBMISSION POLICY: The MNO encourages contributions Council Corner from MNO citizens and staff. All sub- The Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) benefits immensely from the dedicated volunteers who are missions are edited to conform to the Canadian Press Style Guide as well as members of its chartered Community Councils. These hard-working individuals spend hundreds for grammar, repetitiousness, spell- of hours building and strengthening their Métis communities. MNO Councils are the cornerstone ing and to accurately reflect the official of a strong foundation for the MNO in its push toward its inherent right to self-government. names and titles of individuals, organiza- Since October, the following MNO community councils have had elections. Thanks and tion, bodies and agencies referenced in congratulations go to all the candidates who participated in these elections and to the new submissions. council members listed here: With the exception of letters to the MÉTIS VOYAGEUR editor and submissions to the family sec- tion, all submissions should NOT be writ- MNO NORTHWEST MÉTIS COUNCIL ten in the first person. Upcoming The recommended length for a sub- President Secretary Women’s Representative mission is between 400 and 600 words. Submission Ron Robinson Nancy Hatch Julia Mitchell Submissions longer than that may be edited for length. Deadlines: Senator Treasurer Councillors Al Roussin Nancy Hatch Paul Gouette January 19, 2018 Allen Mireault

March 16, 2018 MNO SUNSET COUNTRY MÉTIS COUNCIL May 18, 2018 President Senator Youth Representative September 7, 2018 Brady Hupet John George Kimmy Daley

November 2, 2018 Chair Women’s Representative Councillors Rosalyn Calder Sarah Marusyk Karen Chowhan January 18, 2019 Wade Nelson Métis Voyageur December 2017, Issue no. 98 3 NATION

THE PATH TO MÉTIS SELF-GOVERNMENT MNO launches Registry and Self-Government Readiness Process

by Harvester Card holders. However, because MNO citizen’s file, a letter will be sent to review the MNO will know how many of MNO Staff of changes to the MNO citizenship defini- the citizen informing them of what is nec- its citizens ancestrally connect to one of the tion over the years and a lack of capacity essary to complete their file and they will seven recognized rights-bearing Métis com- for the MNO Registry prior to 2004, there be provided a reasonable amount of time to munities in Ontario1 as well as how many n October 22, 2017, as an are some citizenship files that are incomplete provide the necessary documentation to the ancestrally connect to the Métis Nation in important step towards and may not currently meet MNO Registry. In addition, western Canada, but now live in Ontario. Métis self-government, the requirements. ... the MNO will be retaining the In order to show leadership on this issue the Provisional Coun- The RSRP will involve a the MNO’s consulting firm Know History and provide MNO citizens certainty that they cil of the Métis Nation review of all existing MNO to assist with this review, as are being represented by Métis rights-hold- of Ontario (“PCMNO”) citizenship files to deter- steadfast they are widely recognized as ers at the regional and provincial levels, the passed a resolution that has initiated a review mine whether they meet the position that leading researchers on Métis RSRP will start with the elected leadership, Oof all MNO Registry citizenship files in order requirements for MNO citi- history in Ontario. Further, beginning with the PCMNO. to prepare for the issuance of new MNO Citi- zenship as set out in the MNO all of its materials will be provided Over the next few months, the MNO zenship Cards that will verify each new card- Bylaws and MNO Registry citizens are that will provide assistance will be developing additional communica- holder as a member of a rights-bearing Métis Policy, which align with the and suggestions on how a citi- tion products on the RSRP as well as cre- community and a Métis rights-holder under Supreme Court of Canada’s Métis zen’s file could be completed, ate a dedicated webpage for MNO citizens section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982. decision in R. v. Powley for the rights-holders including, how to use the to explain the process further. This review—which is being called the identification of Métis rights- recently completed Ontario MNO Registry and Self-Government holders. If a citizenship file is ... Métis Root Ancestors pack- Readiness Process (the “RSRP”)—is being complete, that MNO citizen ages that are available on the 1) These identified Ontario Métis communities include the Geor- undertaken in anticipation of formal self- will automatically receive a new MNO Citi- MNO website. gian Bay and Environs Historic Métis Community, the Killarney government and Métis rights negotiations zenship Card that identifies them as Métis Through the RSRP, the MNO Registry will and Environs Historic Métis Community, the Sault Ste. Marie beginning with Canada and Ontario in the rights-holders. For many MNO citizens, also be able to obtain a better understand- and Environs Métis Community, the Northern Lake Superior near future. It is also being done because of they will simply receive a new card—free of ing of exactly “who” the MNO represents for Historic Métis Community, the Abitibi Inland Historic Métis Community, and the Mattawa / Ottawa River and Environs the MNO’s steadfast position that all of its charge—in the mail. future negotiations on self-government and Historic Métis Community, the Rainy River / Lake of the Woods / citizens are Métis rights-holders—not just If there is documentation missing in a Métis rights. For example, as a part of the Treaty 3 Historic Métis Community. QUICK FACTS

• The MNO was created in 1993 by Métis • Since its creation, the MNO has maintained • Individuals with complete citizenship files representatives from rights-bearing Métis a centralized Registry in Ottawa to identify will automatically receive a new MNO communities across Ontario coming together Métis citizens, however, since 1993, there have Citizenship Card in the mail—at no cost to to establish a province-wide, Métis-specific and been significant political, legal and administrative them. Individuals with incomplete files will democratic self-government representative body. developments, including changes to the MNO receive a letter identifying why they current definition of Métis, which have impacted whether citizenship file is incomplete and what they • The MNO’s foundational purpose—as set out all existing MNO citizenship files are complete. need to provide in order to receive a new MNO in the MNO Statement of Prime Purpose—is to Citizenship Card. advance Métis rights and self-government in • The MNO currently has over 20,000 Ontario. Central to this is ensuring that the MNO registered citizens. It is the MNO’s position • In early 2017, the MNO and Canada signed Registry is able to verify that MNO citizens are that all of these citizens are Métis rights-holders. a Memorandum of Understanding to Advance Métis rights-holders and the MNO knowing “who” Through the RSRP and issuance of new MNO Reconciliation that contemplates arriving at a it represents for the purposes of self-government Citizenship Cards, MNO citizens will have Framework Agreement that will set out a formal and Métis rights negotiations. certainty that their file is complete and they are negotiations process to address Métis rights and a verified Métis rights-holder consistent with self-government. constitutional requirements and the Supreme Court of Canada’s decision in R. v. Powley. Métis Voyageur 4 December 2017, Issue no. 98 THE PATH TO MÉTIS SELF-GOVERNMENT FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

2017, the Ontario Government recognized with the to you. If you file is incomplete in some way, you will Q: Is this process MNO that there are, at a minimum, seven historic rights- receive a letter identifying what is needed. The MNO will bearing Métis communities throughout Ontario that meet provide as much assistance as possible to assist you in meant to remove the requirements of the Powley test. MNO citizens—who completing your citizenship file in order to issue a new will be identified as Métis rights-holders—can ancestrally MNO Citizenship Card. MNO citizenship from connect to one of those seven historic Métis communities individuals? in Ontario or to the Métis Nation in western Canada. Q: If I currently have a A: No. This is about preparing the MNO for self- government negotiations, solidifying the integrity of the Q: Am I still able to valid MNO Harvesters MNO Registry and demonstrating what MNO has always believed—that all of our citizens are Métis rights holders. use my existing MNO Card, will I automatically Citizenship Card or get a new MNO Harvester Card? Citizenship Card. Q: Why is the MNO A: Yes. While the review is in process existing MNO A: Yes. All of the existing 1,450 MNO Harvester Card doing this? Citizenship and Harvester Cards will continue to be valid holders have already been validated as being Métis until the review is complete and new cards are issued. rights-holders. As soon as the new MNO Citizenship A: The credibility of the MNO in future self-government Cards are designed, these will be issued to the 1,450 and Métis rights negotiations is tied to its ability to say valid MNO Harvesters Card holders as well as other that it represents Métis rights-holders. This process will MNO citizens who have completed files. validate what the MNO has always believed—that all of Q: Can I still make an our citizens are Métis rights holders. application to the MNO Registry for Citizenship or Q: Are there other Q: I thought all a Harvester Card while this benefits to issuing new MNO citizens were process is ongoing? MNO Citizenship Cards? “grandfathered”. Why is A: Yes, the MNO Registry continues to process cards in A: Yes, the new card is expected to include added accordance with the MNO Registry Policy as well as the security features to ensure it remains current, confidential MNO doing this? MNO Harvesters Card Policy. The processing of pending and can be utilized as recognized government photo applications remains the utmost priority. identification. Further, the card will provide a MNO A: While it was previously decided to “grandfather” all citizen with the confidence that they have been verified MNO citizens who may have incomplete files (i.e. to not as a Métis rights-holder. The new cards can also be require them at that time to complete their files), this produced in a manner to specify the MNO citizen’s did not make these individuals Métis rights-holders. In Q: Am I still able to historic rights bearing Metis community, which will Powley, the Supreme Court of Canada made it very clear provide greater certainty in ongoing Crown consultation that “no matter how a contemporary community defines access MNO programs and accommodation negotiations. And, it is anticipated membership, only those members with a demonstrable that through self-government negotiations new programs ancestral connection to the historic community can and services during this and services will be made available. claim a section 35 right.” This process will verify that process? individuals who receive new MNO Citizenship Cards are Métis rights-holders. A: Yes, there will be no impact on your ability to access MNO programs and services that are available to all MNO citizens and/or self-identifying Métis (who do not have a Q: Are other Métis MNO Citizenship Card) during the review process. Q: Will this process remove governments doing this? MNO citizens who do not A: Yes. Following Powley, the Métis Nation of Alberta Q: undertook a process where all of its existing members ancestrally connect to Is there a cost to me needed to re-register to obtain new cards. In 2013, it the Red River Settlement to moving forward with cancelled its old cards and only now recognizes the new cards that identify Métis rights-holders. The Manitoba or Métis communities in getting the new MNO Métis Federation has a membership list that includes 50,000+ individuals, but has now re-registered 22,000 western Canada? Citizenship Card? individuals with new cards that identify these individuals as Métis rights-holders. A: No. In order to be a MNO citizen, you can ancestrally A: No, there will no charge for this process. If your connect to a historic Métis community in Ontario or to a citizenship file is complete, you will automatically receive historic Métis community in western Canada. In August a new MNO Citizenship Card in the mail—at no cost Métis Voyageur December 2017, Issue no. 98 5

LOUIS RIEL DAY ∞ QUEEN’S PARK CEREMONY IN Resistance, Resilience and Remembrance he themes of resistance, resil- to complete his work. In Ontario, the Métis official portrait that will be displayed at the ience and remembrance fig- struggled to protect their rights, communities Legislature. ured prominently at the Louis and families. The MNO celebrates Louis Riel The Honourable David Zimmer, Minister Riel Day provincial ceremony Day to recognize the many contributions of of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation. at Queen’s Park in Toronto on the Métis to Canada and to highlight the chal- Levac represented the Government of Ontario ... there are three November 16, 2017. lenges that Métis continue to face. at the ceremony. He also spoke of the grow- Louis Riel Day is widely recognized as a day The ceremony started with raising the Métis ing pride that Métis feel and encouraged Métis words that I have Tto pay respect to the legacy of Louis Riel and flag at the Legislative Building and a proces- to continue building a better future for them- learned to be proud celebrate Métis culture and heritage. As in the sion of all in attendance led by Métis musi- selves and all Ontario people. He stated: “On past, Métis communities across Ontario are cians and Liam and Alicia Blore and a Legion behalf of the province, I am honoured to be of, I am Métis.” holding Louis Riel Day events and the pro- Honour Guard. MNO Chair France Picotte here to pay tribute to the incredible life and vincial ceremony took place in Toronto at served as Master of Ceremonies and the open- legacy of Louis Riel. This day is not just about – Speaker of the Ontario Legislature Queen’s Park. For the first time, in accordance ing prayer was given by Provisional Council of the past and its mistakes, but the acknowl- the Hon. Dave Levac with a resolution passed at the Métis Nation the Métis Nation of Ontario (PCMNO) Senator edgement of what can be done now to recog- of Ontario (MNO) Annual General Assembly Renee Gravelle. Following speeches and greet- nize past wrongs, rectify them, and reconcile (AGA) in August, the provincial ceremony ings from MNO leaders and invited dignitaries for a brighter future. Louis Riel will continue Leader Andrea Horwath. did not take place at the Northwest Rebellion a wreath was placed by MNO veterans and a to be a beacon for this, and I am proud to hon- MPP Thompson said: “We have the great monument at Queen’s Park but rather at the moment of silence was observed. our him today.” privilege in this province to have such a flag pole near the Legislative Buildings. Among the dignitaries who spoke was In addition to Speaker Levac and Minister vibrant Métis culture, and I am pleased that Louis Riel was the great Métis leader exe- the Honourable Dave Levac, Speaker of the Zimmer, Progressive Conservative (PC) Mem- the Métis in Ontario are increasingly suc- cuted by the Canadian government for lead- Ontario Legislature. Speaker Levac said that, ber of the Provincial Parliament (MPP) for ceeding and playing a significant role in our ing the Northwest Resistance in defense of “there are three words that I have learned Huron-Bruce Lisa Thompson and New Dem- province and nation’s diversity, prosperity and Métis rights and the Métis way-of-life. Every to be proud of, I am Métis.” He indicated as ocratic Party (NDP) MPP for Algoma-Mani- growth. A strong partnership with the Métis is year Louis Riel Day is held to remember what one demonstration of his Métis pride that toulin Michael Mantha brought greetings on Riel sacrificed and renew the commitment he wore his Métis sash when sitting for his behalf of PC Leader Patrick Brown and NDP continued on page 6

1 Some of the highlights from the Queen’s Park Louis Riel Day Ceremony: 1) Jean Teillet, renowned Métis lawyer and great-grandniece of Louis Riel. 2) PCMNO Senator Renee Gravelle provides the opening prayer. 3) The Legion Colour Party led the procession. 4) A blustery day could not keep Jean Teillet or members of the PCMNO and their families from taking part in the ceremony. 5) MMP Michael Mantha. 6) MMP Lisa Thompson reads the official declaration of Louis Riel Day in Ontario. 7) The Honourable David Zimmer, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation

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3 4 5 6 7 Métis Voyageur 6 December 2017, Issue no. 98

LOUIS RIEL DAY ∞ LAW SOCIETY OF UPPER CANADA Historic Métis communities and root ancestors focus of Law Society event by MNO Staff Métis community and provides the complete documentation including genealogy charts and copies of key very year on Louis Riel documents such as census records, Day, the Métis Nation of birth or baptismal records that dem- Ontario (MNO) partners onstrate that family’s connection to with the Law Society of a root Métis ancestor. These docu- EUpper Canada (LSUC) to host an ments will be very useful to people event highlighting the most recent applying for MNO citizenship or and significant developments in who are looking for genealogy docu- Métis rights. This year’s event ments for any reason. More informa- focused on the recent agreement tion on the historic Métis communi- between the MNO and Ontario rec- ties and root ancestors are posted on ognizing six new historic Métis com- SPEAKERS AT THE LAW SOCIETY OF UPPER CANADA’S RIEL DAY PANEL: (left to right) renowned the MNO website including nearly munities in Onatario and the release Métis lawyer Jean Teillet; Candice Telfer, legal services at the Ontario Ministry of Indigenous Relations 100 root ancestor documents. of the nearly 100 Ontario Métis root and Reconciliation; Megan Strachan, associate at Pape Salter Teillet LLP; and Ryan Shackleton, Director Following the panel discussion ancestor documents earlier this year. of Know History. an reception was held that included As in the past, the event took place great Métis cultural performances at the LSUC building in Toronto and Relations and Reconciliation and Senator Verna Porter-Brunelle and communities in Ontario. Sault Ste. from Alicia and Liam Blore; Hon- included a panel of legal and histori- Ryan Shackleton, the Director of closing prayer was provided by Marie has been recognized since the ourary MNO Senator Ruth Wagner; cal experts that included renowned Know History. MNO President PCMNO Senator Ray Bergie. landmark Supreme Court of Canada Elsa Poitras, Kyle Burton and for- Métis lawyer and historian Jean Teil- Margaret Froh provided greetings Strachan and Telfer provided case R. v. Powley in 2003. Shackleton mer MNO Summer Youth Culture let, who moderated the panel, along along with Paul Schabas, LSUC details on the six communities that discussed the methodology used to facilitators. with Megan Strachan of Pape, Salter Treasurer. Opening prayer was pro- Ontario recently agreed would join compile the Métis root ancestor doc- Overall it was another very suc- Teillet LLP, Candice Telfer of Legal vided by Provisional Council of the the historic Sault Ste. Marie com- uments. Each document focuses on cessful and educational event. Services, Ministry of Indigenous Métis Nation of Ontario (PCMNO) munity as recognized historic Métis a particular Métis family in a historic

(left) MNO President Margaret Froh. (center) Métis fiddling and jigging at the reception following the LSUC panel. (right) From left to right PCMNO Senator Joe Poitras, PCMNO Senator Ray Bergie, MNO President Margaret Froh, Know History Director Ryan Shackleton, PCMNO Senator Verna Porter-Brunelle, Lawyer Megan Strachan, Ontario person and Jean Teillet at the LSUC panel event.

LOUIS RIEL DAY ∞ QUEEN’S PARK CEREMONY IN TORONTO Resistance, Resilience & Remembrance continued from page 5 This year MNO Region 2 MNO Youth Coun- In her conclusion she drew on the themes cil Representative Paul Robitaille spoke about of resistance, resilience and remembrance that crucial for the future of Ontario, and I strongly the fact that while relationships with Canadian had been touched on by the other speakers. believe in an Ontario that works co-operatively governments are improving we know from his- She explained: “In spite of everything that has with our indigenous neighbours.” tory that everything will not be easy and Métis been done, in spite of every denial, and those MPP Mantha stated: “We’re proud to cel- youth will need to play a role in strengthen- denials unfortunately are still happening today, ebrate Louis Riel’s legacy in Ontario, where ing the Métis Nation. Representative Robitaille of who we are as Métis people, as the Métis Métis people have vibrant communities. We’re stated: “With open arms and open hearts we Nation, we are still here and we are still mov- happy to work hand in hand with Métis peo- welcome all who wish to paddle with us in the ing forward and in fact we have made some ple in Ontario to develop better opportunities spirit of respect, reciprocity and collaboration. great advances.” In addition to past accom- for them and continue the important process Because it is only by working together—across plishments, President Froh also highlighted of reconciliation. La contribution de la Nation communities, across organizations, across gov- the current discussions to sign a framework Métis pour l’Ontario et tout le Canada est des ernments and across generations—that we can agreement with Canada and Ontario. She plus importantes.“ hope to build a brighter, more prosperous said: “We are to be going forward negotiat- In addition to the MPPs who spoke, a num- Métis Nation and Ontario for us all.” ing self- government for the Métis Nation in ber of other MPPs took the time to attend the Another Riel Day tradition is the address by Ontario. There are many great things that we ceremony to show their support for the MNO. Jean Teillet. Ms. Teillet is a renowned Métis The Legion Colour Party salutes during have achieved – there are many more great These included Minister of Economic Devel- lawyer who was lead counsel for Steve and the laying of the wreaths. things in front of us.” opment and Growth Brad Duguid, Minister of Roddy Powely during the landmark R v. Pow- “This is really what we are here to do today,” Finance Charles Sousa, MPP for Scarborough- ley case. She is also the great-grandniece of she added in closing her formal remarks, “to Agincourt Soo Wong and MPP for Beaches- Louis Riel and her direct family connection to In her remarks near the close of the cer- remember Louis Riel, to remember Steve Pow- East Yrok Arthur Potts. Louis Riel always makes her remarks especially emony, MNO President Froh recognized that ley, to remember all those Métis leaders who The participation of these MPPs in the cer- poignant. This year Ms. Teillet told the story the hard work of advancing Métis rights, self- have gone before us and the legacy they have emony at the event demonstrated the positive of “Old Nick” a Métis who had proposed to government and reconciliation is being carried left for us.” Then when speaking about the relationship the MNO has built with Ontario ambush the soldiers coming to fight the Métis. out by MNO citizens in Métis communities importance of Métis youth, she added: “While through the signing of the MNO-Ontario She explained that Louis Riel had opposed the across Ontario. She thanked and recognized we remember – we are also always looking Framework Agreement, which was renewed ambush on humanitarian grounds and it pro- the PCMNO for its dedication and leadership forward.” in 2014; and by the all-party support for the vides a great example of Métis taking the high as well as everyone participating and attend- passage of the MNO Secretariat Act in 2015. moral ground. ing the ceremony. Métis Voyageur December 2017, Issue no. 98 7

LOUIS RIEL DAY ∞ QUEEN’S PARK CEREMONY IN TORONTO

Each year one of the highlights of the provincial Louis Riel Day ceremony is the message from a representative of Métis youth. This year the representative was Paul Robitaille, the MNO Youth Council Representative for Region 2 and a member of the Commission on Métis Rights and Self-Government. Below is the complete transcript of his message: A sense of mixed emotion t is a great honour and priv- ilege to offer a few words on behalf of Ontario’s Métis Youth. On a day such as this, as we collectively confront With open arms and open Iand work to reconcile our shared hearts we welcome all who history, one cannot help but be overcome by a strong sense of mixed wish to paddle with us. emotion. And while we each must search within ourselves to discover – MNO Youth Council Rep for Region 2 Paul Robitaille what this important day means to us, for myself—like many of our how that story and those relation- of divisiveness, deceit and empty young Métis leaders—I stand before ships between Métis People and promises that were used in Riel’s you today filled with a resounding Ontario have evolved over time. time are still sadly employed all too feeling of cautious optimism. And in seeing that trajectory—that frequently today. I am optimistic, because like evolution of those relationships—I So while there is much to cel- many of our Métis Youth, I have cannot help but be optimistic for the ebrate today, we must also remain been blessed to be born into a future. humble in the realization that there Métis Nation of Ontario Youth Council Representative for Region strong, loving family and commu- However, I also remain cautious is still much more work to be done. 2 Paul Robitaille presents a message from Métis youth at Queen’s nity and to have the unending sup- in that optimism. I remain cau- Fortunately, our young Métis Park in Toronto. port many inspiring leaders, role tious precisely because I do under- leaders are eager to take up that call- models and mentors—a number of stand our collective story and I do ing. They are eager to assume that story—that was started so long ago. communities, across organizations, whom surround me today. Because understand the history of our rela- burden of responsibility and to con- With open arms and open hearts across governments and across gen- of this, I know who we are. Because tionships. I am keenly aware of the tinue that paddle toward self-deter- we welcome all who wish to paddle erations—that we can hope to build of this, I know our shared Métis follies of the past. And, through mination—toward recognition of with us in the spirit of respect, reci- a brighter, more prosperous Métis story. And, because of this, I know understanding, I am also keenly our rights, of our nationhood and procity and collaboration. Because it Nation and Ontario for us all. our collective story in Ontario and aware that the insidious tactics of our unique place within Ontario’s is only by working together—across

LOUIS RIEL DAY ∞ ACROSS THE PROVINCE Raising the Métis flag across the Niagara Region

submitted by The Council was honoured by from MNO NRMC President Der- Laura Burey the presence of Member of Parlia- rick Pont, MNO NRMC Chair Brian MNO Niagara Region Métis ment (MP) and MNO citizen Vance Kon, MP Badaway and MP Bittle. Council Treasurer Badawey, MP Chris Bittle, Niagara After the remarks, the Council Region Chair Alan Caslin, Niagara invited everyone inside for refresh- Region Mayors Frank Campion, ments, cultural music and dancing. he Métis Nation of Ontario Patrick Darte, Sandra Easton, Ted The following day, November (MNO) Niagara Region Luciani and Jim Diodati. Also in 16, 2017, the Métis flag was raised T Métis Council (NRMC) attendance was Niagara Region by MNO NRMC Senator Gary hosted a Louis Riel Day event at Councilor Paul Grenier and MNO Laframboise at Club Richelieu in the Niagara Region headquarters in NRMC Councilor Joyce Morocco. , MNO NRMC Chair Brian Thorold on November 15, 2017. The MNO NRMC gifted Métis Kon at Niagara Region Native In addition to local MNO citizens, flags to each municipality as well Centre in Niagara-On-the-Lake (Front, left-right) MNO Historic Sault Ste. Marie Métis Council the MNO NRMC invited represen- as the Niagara Region and asked and Treasurer Laura Burey at the (HSSMMC) President Kim Powley, MNO HSSMMC Secretary Steve tatives from all twelve municipali- each to raise the their flags on Niagara Military Museum. Gjos and MNO HSSMMC Councilor Dianne Beaudry carrying the ties in the region. November 16, 2017, to honour This day not only marked a day Eagle Staff and Canadian and Métis flags to Sault Ste. Marie City Hall. The MNO NRMC citizens Louis Riel and for his bravery on of remembrance and education but (back, left-right) MNO HSSMMC Senator Brenda Powley with MNO cit- present raised the Métis flag giving his life for the Métis people. a day of unity between the Métis izens Emerson Riel, Virginia Rydal, Amber Jones and Melissa Agawa. together, to pay tribute to the great Following raising the flag, kind people and all other citizens in the Poulin and MNO Mattawa Métis Council Senator Joyceline Rose. Métis leader Louis Riel. words were spoken about Louis Riel Niagara Region.

MNO Historic Sault Ste. Marie Métis Council participates in Riel Day flag raising submitted by Ste. Marie City Hall. Participants Steve Gjos included MNO HSSMC President MNO Historic Sault Ste. Marie Métis Kim Powley, Senator Brenda Pow- Council Secretary ley, Secretary Steve Gjos, Councilor Dianne Beaudry as well as other local MNO citizens and members n November 16, 2017, Métis of Batchewana, Garden River, and (Left-right) Member of Parliament Vance Badawey, MNO Niagara Region Councilor Paul Grenier, Niagara ONation of Ontario (MNO) Michipicoten First Nations. City Mayor Sandra Easton, MNO Niagara Region Métis Council (NRMC) Chair Brian Kon, MNO NRMC Historic Sault Ste. Marie Coun- Acting Mayor Sandra Holling- Senator Gary Laframboise, Niagara Region Chair Alan Caslin, MNO NRMC President Derrick Pont, MP cil (HSSMC) held a Louis Riel Day sworth raised the flag on behalf of Chris Bittle and MayorTed Luciani. (Missing from photo) Mayor Patrick Darte, Mayor Jim Diodati and Métis flag raising ceremony at Sault the City of Sault Ste. Marie. MNO NRMC Councilor Joyce Morocco. Métis Voyageur 8 December 2017, Issue no. 98 PCMNO Senator attends Gathering of Elders submitted by Language and Cultural Traditions Verna Porter-Brunelle session that Senator Porter-Brunelle MNO citizen & veteran MNO Veterans’ Council President attended was Member of Parliament (MP) Robert-Falcon Ouelette. MP Ouelette is an Indigenous veteran rom September 11 to 14, joined approximately 4,600 elders and a former university professor. 2017, Provisional Coun- and helpers from across the country. There were many Indigenous cil of the Métis Nation The Gathering allowed the Elders entertainers including Métis jiggers of Ontario (PCMNO) to collaborate on how to improve and fiddlers, Inuit throat singers Senator Verna Porter- Canada’s education and legal sys- and First Nations dancers who per- FBrunelle attended the first ever tems from an Indigenous perspec- formed in their traditional regalia. Gathering of Elders in Edmonton tive. It offered the opportunity to Attendees enjoyed traditional food Alberta. Senator Porter-Brunelle share knowledge with youth, which such as moose and the event was a attended the gathering as a mem- helps to bridge the generation gap great experience. The Elders Justice ber of the Elders Justice Commit- and allows the younger generations Committee has already received two tee, which was formed in 2017 by to demonstrate respect, regard and requests to host the next gathering the Ministry of the Ontario Attor- honour for their Elders. in 2018. ney General. Senator Porter-Brunelle At the Elders Gathering, Sena- During the Gathering, Senator was among 13 respected Indige- tor Porter-Brunelle wore her Métis Porter-Brunelle and the other mem- nous Elders from diverse commu- sash, which became a special con- bers of the Ontario Elders Justice nities across Ontario appointed to versation piece that allowed her to Committee also travelled to Jasper the Committee. Ontario established share her Métis heritage. to hold a ceremony. the Elders Justice Committee to pro- During the three day event, PCMNO Senator Rene Gravelle vide advice to the Attorney General group sessions included Recon- and PCMNO Region 2 Councilor on how to improve the justice sys- ciliation, Climate Change, Revital- Cam Burgess also attended the Gath- tems’ responsiveness to the needs ization of Culture and Language, ering. Senator Porter-Brunelle had of Indigenous people and support Missing and Murdered Indigenous the opportunity to meet with both PCMNO Senator Verna the reclamation of Indigenous legal Women and Girls and Indigenous Senator Rene Gravelle and Coun- Porter-Brunelle at the systems. Senator Porter-Brunelle Health. The keynote speaker for the cilor Burgess during the event. first ever Gathering of Elders in Edmonton. For more information on the National Gathering of Elders please visit ngekanata.com

New ridings established in Northern Ontario submitted by Yasir Naqvi Ontario Attorney General

 Map illustrating he Representation Statute Law Amendment the ridings in Act, 2017 has been passed in the provincial Northern Ontario legislature. This is an important step established under forward that will ensure a strong voice the Representation Tfor Northern Ontarians at Queen’s Park. Statute Law This Act includes reforms to create two Amendment Act, additional ridings in Northern Ontario 2017. for a total of four, called Kiiwetinoong, Mushkegowuk-James Bay, Kenora-Rainy River, and Timmins. These ridings will replace the current electoral districts of Timmins-James Bay and Kenora-Rainy River. These new ridings will be in place in time for the scheduled provincial election in 2018. The government will be consulting with affected communities to determine a final name for the new riding of Mushkegowuk-James Bay. The Ontario government is committed to working closely with community leaders in northern Ontario and appreciates their continued support as work continues towards building a stronger, more representative election system. Métis Voyageur December 2017, Issue no. 98 9

Minister of Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs, Métis Nation British Columbia President Clara Morin Dal Col and Métis Nation of Alberta President Audrey Poitras at the MNO takes part MNOFirst Minister Meeting intakes Ottawa on October 3, 2017. in First Ministers part in First Meeting by MNO Staff Ministers n October 3, 2017 in Ottawa, Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) OActing President France Picotte Meeting participated in a meeting of Canada’s First Ministers and Indigenous lead- 1 by ers. Acting President Picotte was a MNO Staff member of the Métis Nation delega- tion along with other members of the Métis National Council (MNC) Board of n October 3, 2017 in Ottawa, Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Act- Governors. ing President France Picotte participated in a meeting of Canada’s Prior to the full meeting of First Min- O First Ministers and Indigenous leaders. Acting President Picotte was isters, Prime Minister Trudeau met a member of the Métis Nation delegation along with other members of the with MNC President Clément Chart- Métis National Council (MNC) Board of Governors. ier, Assembly of First Nations National Prior to the full meeting of First Ministers, Prime Minister Trudeau met Chief Perry Bellgarde and Tapiriit Kana- with MNC President Clément Chartier, Assembly of First Nations National tami President Natan Obed. The Indig- Chief Perry Bellgarde and Tapiriit Kanatami President Natan Obed. The Indig- enous leaders including Acting President enous leaders including Acting President Picotte were also part of a meeting Picotte were also part of a meeting that that included all the First Ministers. included all the First Ministers. “As Canada and Ontario have a role to play in advancing reconciliation “As Canada and Ontario have a role to with the Métis it was important to have our voice heard at these meetings,” play in advancing reconciliation with the explained Acting President Picotte. “We look toward to continued conver- Métis it was important to have our voice sations with both levels of government on the issues that are critical to our heard at these meetings,” explained Act- families and communities in Ontario.” ing President Picotte. “We look toward to continued conversations with both levels of government on the issues that are critical to our families and communi- ties in Ontario.”

The Metis Nation of Ontario (MNO) is seeking Access to mental Métis community members who are interested in volunteering health services REGIONAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (RAC) through the MNO & MÉTIS COMMITTEE (MAC) for children and The Metis Nation of Ontario (MNO) ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: is seeking Métis community members youth expanded who are interested in volunteering their • RAC members review and recommend time as members of Regional Advisory training proposals through an anonymous by Committee (RAC) or Métis Awards review process with the assistance of MNO Staff Committee (MAC). These roles offer the Regional Employment and Training an opportunity to make a valuable Coordinator (RETC). he Métis Nation of families and schools in order to contribution to the Métis community • Reviews are ongoing however time Ontario (MNO) has in help children and youth attain across Ontario. RAC and MAC members commitment is limited in nature. the last several months optimal educational success. assist in the review of employment and • MAC members are required to review expanded the mental Métis children and youth training services in keeping with program bursary applications once or twice a year. Thealth programming it can make can obtain access to this pro- Principles, Policies and Procedures. • All RAC and MAC business is to be available for children and youth. gramming through referrals completed by fax, e-mail and/or Through this expansion Métis from MNO Healing and Well- teleconference wherever possible. MNO children and youth now can ness staff in every MNO office will provide the tools necessary to assist us access a broad a range of interdis- across Ontario. There is no with making informed decisions ciplinary mental health care pro- cost to participants. Depending • RAC/MAC work is strictly voluntary fessionals such as psychologists, are service and the location of psychiatry professionals, addic- the participant, services can tions counsellors and/or other be accessed in-person and/or health professionals. through telephone and videocon- The MNO already has over 20 ferencing technology operated by psychological assessments occur- the MNO. ring across the province. These The MNO is very excited about include assessments and follow these new services that allow it to ups with psychiatry and psy- bring timely and accessible spe- chology professionals as well as cialized mental health services to parenting coaches, behavioural all MNO service areas across the therapists and school advocates. province. These professionals support If you are interested in this position For further information feel free to contact: or would like to know more please contact Jade Bourbonnière: Wendy Stewart MNO Manager of Mental Health and Addictions [email protected] or [email protected] 1-800-263-4889 613-798-1488 x125. Métis Voyageur 10 December 2017, Issue no. 98

MNO Veterans’ Council

MNO veterans presenting President Froh with first replica statue of “The Métis,” (Left to right) Robert Desjardins, Sharlene Lance, Doug Woods, Greg Garratt, President Froh, Shelly Claus and June Smart.

MNO Veterans’ Council releases replica statues of “The Métis” submitted by Ontario. The Métis Nation of Ontario replica statues and MNO Veterans’ Coun- and a number of veterans Grag Garrat Paquette (MNO) Veterans’ Council has developed cil Secretary/Treasurer Greg Garratt was were present and able to take MNO Veterans’ Council smaller replicas of the statue and pre- already working the Schmalz to produce part in the presentation. It was Secretary/Treasurer sented the first one to MNO President them for organizations and people too far very appropriate that this pre- Margaret Froh at an MNO event this away to see the original. sentation was made during the November. The first replica statue was presented month of remembrance. uring the summer of 2016, “The Métis” had received a strong to President Froh to recognize the MNO’s Anyone interested in obtaining a monument called “the positive reaction since being unveiled ongoing support of the MNO Veterans’ a copy of the replica statue should Métis” was unveiled a statue and this led the MNO Veterans’ Coun- Council, in particular the Fighting for contact Greg Garratt at: greg- in Penetanguishene as part cil to present the original artwork for the Canada before there was Canada, the [email protected]. The cost Dthe Champlain Legacy Sculpture Proj- sculpture to President Froh during the Métis veterans history book; as well as of each statue is $80.00 (taxes ect. “The Métis” was one of seven sculp- Vimy Commemoration Project in April the Vimy Commemoration Project. The included) plus postage and tures created by Timothy Schmalz and 2017. At this time, the MNO Veterans’ presentation took place at a MNO Cul- handling. Please note quanti- it depicts the rise of Métis Nation in Council was already planning to develop tural Immersion event this November ties are limited. MNO veteran continues his winning ways

uring 2015, 2016 and submitted by 2017, Métis Nation of Joseph Paquette Ontario (MNO) citizen MNO citizen & veteran and veteran Bernie Pepin MNO Veterans’ Council President DC.D. successfully competed in three provincial and three national shoot- ing competitions. some current and retired military Pepin started shooting after join- shooters. In 2015, Pepin won a ing the Army Cadets in 1973 and prestigious shooting , receiv- continued to shoot competitively for ing the Lieutenant Governor’s Prize the national Canadian Target Rifle background and heritage. MNO veteran Bernie Pepin several years. Although he partici- for the top target rifle shooter and Championships and forty-ninth in Pepin’s mother had often spoken C.D. (center) with other pated in shooting during most of his receiving second place for the Mer- the national MacDonald Stewart’s to him about his Métis background members of the Canadian military career that started when he cer’s Grand Aggregate. Within the Grand Aggregate. and heritage. At a young age, Pepin Rifle Team in 2017. joined the Canadian Armed Forces same year, Pepin went on to win the In 2017, Pepin placed forty- knew that both of his grandparents (CAF) in 1981, he stopped compet- Strachan Challenge Trophy for top second in the provincial Mercer’s on his mother’s side were Métis, but ing in 1985 and wouldn’t until after sharpshooter in Canada. He placed Grand Aggregate, twenty-first in he never thought of it further until his retirement in 2012. Pepin was twenty-second in the Canadian Tar- the national Canadian Target Rifle he participated in the unveiling of that ironically engaged the Métis at able to return to competitive shoot- get Rifle Championships and placed Championships and fifty-fourth in a plaque in memory of his ancestor Fish Creek and Batoche during the ing in 2014 thanks to support from thirty-first in the MacDonald Stew- the national MacDonald Stewart’s Pierre Falcon in 1985. Furthermore, Northwest resistance of 1885. his fellow competitive shooters. art’s Grand Aggregate. Grand Aggregate. during World War II, his Métis Today Pepin continues to enjoy Although he is retired from the In 2016, Pepin placed four- Pepin is not only a proud of grandfather served with the Royal competitive shooting as a veteran military, Pepin continues to compete teenth in the provincial Mercer’s his achievements as a competitive Winnipeg Rifles (also known as as he did throughout his military in civilian competitions alongside Grand Aggregate, fourteenth in shooter but also proud of his Métis The Little Black Devils), a regiment career. Métis Voyageur December 2017, Issue no. 98 11

MNO Veterans’ Council MNO veteran hangs significant mementoes for Georgian Bay Métis Council

submitted by the 2017 MNO Canoe Expedition Greg Garratt gifted to the Council when the MNO Veterans’ Council Expedition stopped in Midland Secretary-Treasurer during the summer. Sgt-At-Arms Woods also hung dot art portraying the seven he Métis Nation of Ontario grandfather teachings gifted to (MNO) Georgian Bay Métis the Council by MNO Veterans’ T Council operates out of Council Senator Guy Mandeville, the MNO office in Midland and C.D. He also hung a paddle fea- on October 4 the MNO Veterans’ turing artwork from veterans and Council represented by Sgt-At- youth gifted to the MNO Veterans’ Arms Doug Woods helped the Council at Annual General Assem- Council out by hanging several bly in Sault St. Marie in 2012 as important pictures in the office. well as certificates of appreciation Among the items hung in the that have been presented to the office were pictures and gifts from Council.

MNO Veterans’ Council Senator Guy Mandeville C.D.(standing) teaching students about the Métis involvement during the World War I.

MNO Veterans’ Senator educates youth about Métis contributions to WWI

n October 2-3, 2017, submitted by high schools and he spoke to Métis Nation of Ontario Joseph Paquette approximately 16-25 students in O(MNO) Veterans’ Council MNO citizen & veteran each workshop. Senator Guy Mandeville C.D. MNO Veterans’ Council President It was a great opportunity made presentations at the Waterloo for the MNO Veterans’ Council Region Museum to over 900 to meet and educate the youth students about Métis involvement Mandeville provided were about what Métis contributed to in World War I (WWI). for grade 10 students from Canada’s WWI effort. MNO Veterans’ Council Sgt-At-Arms Doug Woods hangs pictures The workshops Senator several Kitchener and Waterloo at the MNO office in Midland.

MNO Veterans’ Senator teaches Métis dot painting workshop submitted by Guy Mandeville C.D. MNO Veterans’ Council Senator

n September 21, 2017, including both military and non- Métis Nation of Ontario military personnel attended the O(MNO) Veterans’ Coun- workshop. The sessions were con- cil Senator Guy Mandeville C.D. ducted as a lunch and learn activ- taught Métis Dot Painting at a ity. Although many of the par- workshop hosted by the Cana- ticipants were first time artists in dian Forces Base (CFB) Tren- this medium they did outstanding ton Defense Indigenous Advi- work. sory Group (TDIAG) located at Senator Mandeville will be the Three Sisters Garden Cariboo conducting a future session at the Lodge in Trenton. Military Family Resource Centre at (Standing in the left) MNO Veterans’ Senator Guy Mandeville C.D. teaches Métis Dot Painting at the Three Twenty people from the base CFB Trenton in October 2017. Sisters Garden Cariboo Lodge. Métis Voyageur 12 December 2017, Issue no. 98

MNO Veterans’ Council MNO citizen and veteran interviewed by CBC News Windsor submitted by Donna Grayer, MNO Windsor-Essex-Kent Métis Council President from a story written by CBC reporter Chris Ensing  MNO veteran Wilfred Rochon. Photo CBC

ilfred Rochon’s face Wilfred, adding that never felt ner- bursts in to a warm vous of a possible deployment to glow when he talks the front lines. about leaving his “You don’t think about that. You small,W northern Ontario town of just keep tackling things day by Gogama to join the army during day.” the Second World War. The United States of America Interviewing with CBC Windsor, dropped the world’s first atomic Wilfred Rochon laughs as he tells bomb over the Japanese city of the story of enlisting in the army Hiroshima, effectively ending the because it didn’t’ go so well the first war. time he tried in 1944. Rochon is With the front-line battle won, a Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Wilfred was transferred to Graven- citizen and Métis veteran. hurst, Ontario to guard prisoners “When I was 17, they sent me of war. At this point, Rochon’s son, to Toronto,” said Wilfred. “I knew Jon Rochon takes over the story. country, just like my dad fought for he is still a member of today, along visiting his grand-daughter Sienna the doctor there. He’s a doctor His father’s memory is starting to his country,” explained Jon. with his son. Jon said it’s a privi- Rochon’s school and answering from Gogama, and he sent me back fade and there are some stories he’d But not all the Prisoners were lege to be able to hear stories from questions ahead of Remembrance home because I was too young.” rather not tell. But one story Jon’s prepared to play cards with their Indigenous veterans who can share Day. The eldest Rochon takes That unlikely coincidence couldn’t father did share provides a glimpse captors. first-hand accounts of what it was great pride in seeing the bright red keep Rochon from his desire to into service beyond the battlefront. “There’s also a group of people like to serve. poppy pinned to people they walk serve. “There was a group of soldiers that were still fanatical for their “I’m sure there’s stories that were past. “I figured they needed someone that he was guarding, some Ger- countries,” said Jon. “It was like lost that we won’t know about,” “You know they’re friends of to go to war, you know, to help mans and Italians that were offi- a war inside the Prisoner of War said Jon. yours,” said Wilfred, with a smile. them out,” said Rochon, who even- cers” said Jon. camps between themselves.” “There’s stories that you know His son notices the respect tually made his way to Winnipeg, “They were called the ‘Happy “The guards were like a referee can’t come back. But I’m sure there whenever he walks with his veteran far from familiar doctors and man- Gang,” said Jon. of sorts, just holding them back is people that are still coming back father. aged to sign up for basic training. Jon said his father bonded with against each other,” said Jon. with the stories and talking about “Even today we went to a store Wilfred began preparing for an the Prisoners of war because they Wilfred’s story is part of a display our Indigenous past, our Native and just everywhere people, anticipated invasion of Japan. His shared the same impulse to serve honouring Métis veterans at the members of the community that including the young generation, training involved parachuting out their country that had carried him Chimczuk Museum in Windsor. did serve.” thank my dad for his service,” said of airplanes across Canada to enlist. He was also one of the founding The Rochon family has passed Jon. “We had to be ready anytime, it “They were young guys and members of the MNO Windsor- Wilfred’s story down through Jon stated, “It’s not forgotten.” didn’t matter where we were,” said they went to war to fight for their Essex-Kent Métis Council which three generations, with the veteran

Story posted at CBC website: www.cbc.ca/news/canada/windsor/poppy-a-sign-of-friendship-says-91-year-old-métis-wwii-vet-1.4398452

Investment in Affordable Housing (2014 Extension) ONTARIO RENOVATES

NORTHERN REMOTE COMMUNITIES Eligibility Criteria: • You must reside in a northern remote community with a population of 2,500 or less • Your total household income must be at or below the 60th percentile in your area • The value of your home must be at or below the average market selling price in your area • The house must be your sole and principal residence • The house must require major repairs and/or modifications for persons with disabilities

TO APPLY CONTACT: Infinity Property Services 226 May Street South , ON P7E 1B4 Tel: 807-626-9300 • Toll-Free: 1-800-891-5882 • Fax: 807-626-9030 [email protected] • www.infinitypropertyservices.ca Métis Voyageur December 2017, Issue no. 98 13

Remembrance Day Métis veteran lays wreath in Ottawa Métis veteran Richard Lefebvre lays wreath at National War Memorial in Ottawa on behalf of all MNO citizens by MNO Staff

very year on November ceremonies. This year, MNO citizen 11, Métis from across the Richard Lefebvre, C.D., who served in homeland participate in the military for close to 33 years and Remembrance Day cere- retired as a Master Warrant Officer laid monies. It is very important the wreath on behalf of all MNO citi- Efor Métis to be a part of these ceremo- zens. This is the second year in a row nies because we have contributed to the that Lefebvre has performed this duty. defence of Canada as far back as the War Lefebvre has has also been laying a of 1812 as well as both World Wars, the wreath on behalf of the MNO for the Korean Conflict, peacekeeping missions past nine years at the National Military and most recently, Afghanistan. Cemetery at Beechwood in Ottawa dur- Over the years, many Métis have ing the National Memorial Ride (NMR). served and many have made the ulti- The NMR is an annual commemorative mate sacrifice. By making the Métis event that brings together motorcycle presence felt at Remembrance Day ser- enthusiasts and supporters on the first Métis veteran Richard Lefebvre vices, we show our respect for all Vvet- Sunday of June to remember and com- holding the MNO wreath that he erans and we remind all Canadians of memorate Canada’s Fallen Veterans. placed on the National War Monument Métis service and sacrifices. This event was started by the National in Ottawa on behalf of all MNO Since 2004, the Métis Nation of Memorial Riders and was taken over citizens during National Remembrance Ontario (MNO) has laid a wreath at by the Royal Canadian Legion. Lefeb- Day ceremonies on November 11. the National War Memorial in Ottawa vre’s group is the only motorcycle group during National Remembrance Day allowed in Beechwood cemetery.

The following was released on November 9, 2017

A message from the government of the

REMEMBRANCE DAY 2017 s we mark Remembrance Day, let us honour the veter- ans, especially those Métis men and women, who have Aserved so bravely in war and in peace. The Métis have a strong tradition of military service. MNO veteran and Clear Waters Métis Council Secretary (left) Don Our involvement in the defense of Canada started in the Kennedy and Royal Military College Cadet Sejun Park (right) on War of 1812, and Métis have served in both World Wars, stage during the Remembrance Day wreath laying. the Korean Conflict, in Peacekeeping missions and most recently in Afghanistan. In 2017, we will mark the 100th anniversary of the battle MNO veteran lays of Vimy Ridge and the 150th anniversary of Canada, and our MNO Veterans Council will be working with our citizens, and in particular our youth, to share MNO Northern Lights Métis Clear Waters Métis their knowledge and experiences. We invite all of Council Senator Gerry Courville. our citizens and friends to join the MNO in sup- Council wreath in porting them in this important work. On November 11, as you attend Remembrance Day MNO Northern Mount Hope ceremonies wherever you are, please take the time to thank our friends, neighbours and all of our relations who Lights Métis submitted by have served – and who continue to serve – and to Jerry Clarke, MNO Clear Waters Métis Council President show our love, our support and our gratitude Council Senator for their bravery and sacrifice, not just with lays wreath in n November 11, 2017, was instrumental in ensuring that words but with actions throughout the year. Métis Nation of Ontario the Council name appeared on Cochrane O (MNO) veteran and the wreath. MNO Clear Waters Métis Council Many of the attendees showed From the submitted by Secretary Don Kennedy partici- respect and appreciation for Vet- Provisional Council Jackie Courville, MNO Northern pated in the Remembrance Day eran Kennedy’s service and his of the Lights Métis Council wreath laying at the Warplane participation in the ceremony. Métis Nation of Ontario Heritage Museum in Mount Veteran Kennedy also partici- Hope. More than 3000 people pated in the Remembrance Day his Remembrance Day, MNO attended the ceremony. Ceremony at Glanbrook Arena in Northern Lights Métis Council The MNO Clear Waters Métis Binbrook on November 5, 2017, T Senator Gerry Courville laid Council name was on the wreath where there were 200 people in a wreath on behalf of the Council that Veteran Kennedy laid during attendance. during Remembrance Day services in the ceremony. Veteran Kennedy Cochrane. Métis Voyageur 14 December 2017, Issue no. 98 COMMUNITY MNO joins signing of Indigenous Education Protocol

submitted by got involved to show that we are a Anne Trudel recognized Indigenous people with MNO Education Officer historic, ancestral ties in order to clear up misunderstandings associ- ated with the Métis. I felt that the n June 12, 2017, The Métis Nation needed to be part of Greater Essex County the conversation and I am grateful District School Board for the kindness shown to me at the (GECDSB) with repre- table as we got down to the work of Osentatives from the Métis Nation, getting this protocol done.” First Nation and Inuit partners The diversity of the area and signed the Indigenous Education schools means its students repre- Protocol (IEP). This junior kinder- sent a few Indigenous Nations. It is garten to grade 12 protocol is the historically recognized as three Fires first IEPfor any district school board Confederacy, with a five Nation in Ontario. The signing ceremony Treaty Coalition presently in place. was held at West Gate Public School The process was complicated. Presi- in Windsor. dent Grayer explained that, “It was The dignitaries were drummed hard at times, but worth the tears in by the members of the Whitefish and frustration to address the con- Junior Singers. cerns brought forward and to make Provisional Council of the Métis sure there was no exclusion within Nation of Ontario (PCMNO) Coun- such a diverse student population, cilor Peter Rivers signed for the Photo from GREATER ESSEX COUNTY DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD (PublicBoard.ca) each distinction acknowledged Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO). while respecting the territory on Signatory for the Inuit was Anne (Left-right): The Greater Essex County District School Board (GECDSB) Superintendent of Education which it was being done.” Marie Kadluck Garrick and Director Clara Howitt GECDSB Trustee Julia Burgess, GECDSB Director of Education Erin Kelly, GECDSB The protocol has seven prin- of Education Erin Kelly signed and Trustee Ron Leclair, Provisional Council of the Métis Nation of Ontario (PCMNO) Region 9 Councilor ciples to guide the next actions of spoke on behalf of the GECDSB. Peter Rivers and MNO Windsor-Essex Métis Council (WEMC) President Donna Grayer. the GECDSB and the First Nation, The ceremony included two First Métis and Inuit partners. The first Nation students. The inclusion of educators who were pivotal in the WEMC President Donna Grayer for principle of the protocol is to make the students displayed a focus on protocol work and present at the her representation of the Métis in First Nation Métis, Inuit education the school’s Indigenous youth and signing included Dr. Clara Howitt the development of the principles a priority at every level. Another highlighted their cultural knowl- Superintendent of Education, I felt that and ongoing participation in Métis principle is to support students edge. All of the Indigenous leaders Debra Laforet Principal of West the Métis Nation education. Councilor Rivers also and employees to increase under- in attendance spoke positively Gate Public School, Tina Decastro needed to be part of the thanked Anne Trudel MNO Edu- standing and reciprocity among about the signing of the protocol as Teacher Consultant, Stonehorse cation Officer for the educational Indigenous and non-Indigenous a basis for the future. Moore of Secondary First Nation conversation and I am resources she was able to provide peoples. Other officiates that were present Métis Inuit Education (FNMIE) grateful for the kindness through the MNO. “Now the work will continue at this special occasion from the Language Instructor and FNMIE shown to me at the table In 2015, President Grayer had with curriculum changes, job GECDSB included the District Student Support Workers Paula as we got down to the been involved in writing the IEP for opportunities and coming to the School Board Trustees Julia Bur- Hedgepeth and Jamie Kechego. St. Clair College and she brought leaderships at the table for who gess and Ron Leclair who self- Councilor Rivers recognized work of getting this this experience to the process of should represent or teach or speak identifies as Métis. These School the protocol as a step forward. He protocol done.” writing the GECDSB IEP; a process for us within classrooms and so Trustees were responsible for put- acknowledged his brothers and sis- that took an entire year. President forth, even within the Elder role,” ting a motion forward requesting ters from the First Nations and Inuit — MNO Windsor-Essex Métis Grayer identified the relationship stated President Grayer. Council President Donna Grayer the IEP. The following GECDSB peoples as equals. He credited MNO building takes time. She states, “I

MNO hosts Service Provider Gathering in Mattawa submitted by the community, the MNO encour- Lisa Poulin aged and promoted cooperation MNO Métis Healthy Babies and and cultural understanding between Healthy Children Coordinator providers. Knowing who is who in the com- munity is significant when it comes n September 25, 2017, Métis to referrals and social support sys- Nation of Ontario (MNO) tems. The Service Provider Gath- Ostaff hosted a Service Pro- ering allowed MNO staff to connect vider Gathering in Mattawa. MNO to other providers and who they programs that participated included could potentially refer their clients the Métis Family Wellbeing, the to in the future. Métis Healthy Babies/Healthy Chil- (Left-right) MNO Métis Family Wellbeing Coordinator Christy Lewin, MNO Employment Coordinator Mark The banner and Faceless Dolls was dren, Community Wellness Worker Burns, MNO Community Support Services Mary-Kelly McCormck, MNO Community Wellness Coordinator donated to the Mattawa Hospital to and Community Support Services Mattingly Turgeon and MNO Métis Healthy Babies and Healthy Children Coordinator Lisa Poulin and MNO bring awareness of MNO program- programs as well as Employment and Mattawa Métis Council Senator Joyceline Rose. ming to those who may not know Education program staff. who offers what in the community. The Service Provider Gathering programs to the service providers in the Mattawa area. The MNO staff a banner titled “These Hands Don’t The Gathering helped identify ser- brought together MNO staff with who attended. The objective was to provided workshops at the Gath- Create Violence.” All participants vice gaps that exist in some instances other agencies in the Mattawa area raise awareness of what the MNO ering to give an idea of the kinds of painted their hands and placed them and were able to fill those gaps by that provide services to the same cli- has to offer to the community and to services the MNO offers. on the banner. They then wrote their networking amongst their peers. entele. It provided an opportunity the local service providers. The first activity was a Faceless names under their hand print. The Service Provider Gathering for all involved to network and learn By collaborating with other service Dolls Workshop that addressed During the event, each pro- proved to be very valuable for both from each other. providers in the area, MNO staff are the critical issue of violence against vider shared what services their the MNO staff and other service pro- The MNO staff members acted strengthening relationships between Indigenous women and girls. organization or program offers. By viders in the Mattawa area. as a team to promote the MNO the providers and their organizations The second activity was creating knowing what providers offered in Métis Voyageur December 2017, Issue no. 98 15 MNO Mattawa Métis Council contributes to Splashpad Project

submitted by Melanie Rose, MNO Mattawa Métis Council Secretary Treasurer

he Métis Nation of Ontario from the town of Mattawa but (MNO) Mattawa Métis fundraising for the project is also Women and children march on Queen Street South in during Take Back the Night event. T Council (MMC) contributed being carried out by a group of vol- $1000 towards the Mattawa Splash unteers who have solicited funds Pad project on June 20, 2017. from local businesses, interest The Splash Pad is a Canada 150 groups, associations and Mattawa project that when complete will residents and former residents. Take Back the Night build a $200,000 facility in Tim- The MNO MMC was very happy mins Park in Mattawa. Approxi- to support this worthy project. in Mississauga mately half the funding is coming submitted by Take Back the Night included together on Queen Street with a Catherine Corbett, MNO Métis displays by community organi- police escort. The group marched Family Wellbeing Coordinator zations and began with a deli- to Britannia Park and then came cious Boston Pizza and samosa back to the square where they dinner. The emcees came from had started. The women and chil- n September 21, 2017, the Newcomer Centre of Peel and dren were decorated with yellow Métis Nation of Ontario the United Food and Commercial glow sticks provided by MNO staff O(MNO) citizens and staff Workers of Canada. The opening members and Catherine Corbett participated in the second annual included a prayer from an elder and and Rose Colacci-Fines. Corbett Take Back the Night event and the acknowledgement that Missis- acted as a safety marshal during rally that took place at the beautiful sauga sits on Indigenous lands. the event keeping the marchers safe Streetsville Square in Mississauga. Survivors who spoke included and directing them away from the The event was hosted by the Peel poet Renee McPhee, Sylvie Noutie traffic. Corbett also helped march Committee Against Woman Abuse and singers Adri Noronha and Luk- leaders with chanting. The volume (PCAWA). The MNO is a proud shana Sathyanathan. Those who level of the chanting was very pow- member of PCAWA through its attended were moved and found erful and received great attention office. strength as these amazing women from people who were not part of Take Back the Night is an anti- opened up about their experiences. the march. Rally chants included: violence vigil to increase aware- In the evening, the group of “Hey hey! ho ho! Patriarchy has ness and support every woman’s women and children gathered got to go!” and “However we dress, right to live without fear. Over 150 wherever we go yes means yes and people attended the event and sup- If you or someone you know is no means no!” ported the PCAWA by speaking out living with abuse in the Credit At the end of the evening the against violence against women. River area, please contact the crowd’s voices were raspy but Some honoured guests who came MNO staff in Brampton: everyone was full of positive energy. to support the event were Member Catherine Corbett The MNO staff of Brampton had (Left-right) MNO Mattawa Métis Council Chair Roger Rose, of Parliament (MP) Sven Spenge- 905-450-444 Ext. 304 a great time partnering with the MNO Mattawa Métis Council Women’s Representative Joycelin mann and City of Mississauga Rose Colacci-Fines PCAWA on this event and look for- Rose, MNO Mattawa Métis Council President Nelson Montreuil, Councilors Sue McFadden, Matt 905-450-444 Ext. 305 ward to the next event to end vio- Splashpad Organizer Dexter Sarrazin and MNO Mattawa Métis Mahoney and George Carlson. lence against women. Council Secretary Treasurer Melanie Rose.

Honourary MNO Senator Reta Gordon takes part in Covenant Chain Link Gathering submitted by Devora Cascante MNO Toronto and York Region Kairos Canada Administrative Associate

n October 19 and 20, 2017, Indigenous and non-Indigenous Honourary Métis Nation peoples in Canada. O of Ontario (MNO) Sena- This event gets its name from tor Reta Gordon participated in the the Covenant Chain, which was an opening and closing ceremonies at alliance between the Iroquois Con- (Left-right) Elder Victoria (Vicki) Grant Boucher, Sally Webster and Senator Reta Gordon open the eighth the Eighth Annual Covenant Chain federacy and the British colonies of annual Covenant Chain Link Gathering in Ottawa. Link Gathering, which took place at North America. Embodied in the the Confederation Education Centre Two Row Wampum treaty, the Cov- in Ottawa. enant Chain respected the dignity etiquette, storytelling and sharing to the gathering with her beau- know each other. Covenant Chain Link Gathering and integrity of the two peoples circles. The opening keynote pre- tiful prayers and inspiring words of “Every year I so enjoy and learn is an annual, Ottawa-based event involved in this agreement, stresses sentation was by author and edu- wisdom. so much from these meetings,” said that brings together First Nations, non-interference and was based on cator Dr. Jenny Kay Dupuis, a proud Senator Gordon also attended Senator Gordon. Inuit, and Métis governments, agen- the principles of peace, friendship member of Nipissing First Nation. the workshops and took the time to Upon closing, she shared cies and individuals with teachers, and mutual respect. MNO Senator Reta Gordon chat with all the youth presenters. thoughtful memories of her past in students, church groups, educa- The theme of this year’s event kindly participated in the opening Her presence throughout the day connection with the youth leaders tion consultants and members of was Empowered and Empowering and closing ceremonies. She was helped create a safe and open envi- in the room. the general public to share ideas Youth. Participants were treated to a joined by Elders Sally Webster and ronment where participants were and learn from each other about number of youth-led workshops on Victoria (Vicki) Grant Boucher. Sen- able to explore our common history the evolving relationship between cultural appropriation, proper ally ator Gordon welcomed participants and exchange ideas while getting to Métis Voyageur 16 December 2017, Issue no. 98

Another successful MNO Georgian Bay Métis Council tree planting project

Volunteers with the MNO submitted by This property already includes community effort. Planters After the openings and intro- Georgian Bay Métis Council Larry J. Ferris a Three Sisters Garden planted by included faculty and students, rep- ductions, MNO GBMC volunteers and students and faculty of MNO Georgian Bay Métis Council the Native Women’s Group resentatives from the Orillia Native planted the trees. It was very nice Lakehead University, Orillia Chairperson and another local group Ambe Women’s Group and MNO GBMC to have the young students helping Campus Tigadaw, which brings attention to volunteers. out. Not only were they able to do food security issues for Indigenous MNO GBMC Senator Ken “Two the jobs quickly, they brought great he Métis Nation of Ontario people. There are also allotment- Dogs” Fraser started the event with enthusiasm. A big thank you goes out to the (MNO) Georgian Bay based community gardens in Orillia a smudging and a prayer. For some Council members were able to MNO GBMC volunteers for their Métis Council (GBMC) operated by the city. of the participants it was their first talk to other planters and answer hard work and to Lakehead Uni- has completed another The MNO GBMC was asked to smudging. Pat Taylor, the MNO some questions. There were great versity for so warmly receiving the Tsuccessful tree planting project, this help out with the trees planting. GBMC’s Women Representative, discussions with the Lakehead Council, especially with Wassegijib time at the Orillia campus of Lake- The Council carefully prepared a drummed and sang a song. As University staff about further part- and Dr. Linda Rodenburg. head University. list of trees that Métis historically always, she was a strong voice for nerships. Allysha Wassegijig, the The MNO GBMC recognizes and The University has property set used, including Cedar (a traditional the women. Aboriginal Initiatives Coordi- thanks the Central Canada Sustain- aside for Indigenous students and medicinal plant), Saskatoon Berry Greg and Heather Garratt were nator for the Orillia Campus, has able Forestry Initiative Implementa- staff and part of the property is a (used to make pemmican), Spruce fantastic ambassadors of the MNO been partnering with Provisional tion Committee for their generous garden zone that includes Indig- (used in spruce tip tea) and Sugar GBMC and members of the com- Council of Métis Nation of Ontario grant that allowed the MNO GBMC enous plants used for food, medi- Maple (used for maple syrup). munity believe Greg deserves the (PCMNO) Post-Secondary Repre- to undertake this project. cine and ceremony. Planting the trees was a Aboriginal name “Many Hats.” sentative Kaitlyn LaCroix.

MNO citizen and her daughters participate in Red Dress Project submitted by Colleen Brunel MNO Grand River Métis Council Women’s Representative

ecently, Métis Nation of called the Red Dress Project, which her daughters and over 100 com- Park where the candlelight vigil was Part of the Red Dress Project Ontario (MNO) Grand will raise awareness for Canada’s munity members attended the Sis- held. social media campaign that River Métis Council missing and murdered Indigenous ters in Spirit Vigil held at the Boat- Many Women in Crisis staff, raises awareness about (GRMC) Women’s Repre- women. house and Maryanne’s Park on thanked Colleen and her daughters missing and murdered Rsentative Colleen Brunelle and her The Red Dress Project started the Speed River. Event staff from for contributing to the Red Dress Indigenous women. (Left to daughters Avaline and Stella partici- as an art installation created in Women in Crisis streamed an APTN project and were very interested right): Avaline Brunelle, Stella pated in a photo shoot with photog- 2010 by Winnipeg Métis artist Taken episode outlining the case of in understanding the meanings Brunelle and MNO Grand rapher Carly Hunt on the grounds Jaime Black. It has grown all across Cheyenne Fox. At the end, those behind the Brunelle’s Métis sash. It River Métis Council Women’s of Marianne’s Park in the City of Canada as a haunting reminder of in attendance were encouraged to was a great conversation starter that Representative Colleen . the more than 1000 missing and share one word which described attracted the media who requested Brunelle. Guelph-Wellington Women in murdered Indigenous women and how they felt about the episode. interviews and photos. Guelph Crisis partnered with Hunt to take girls. It serves to both mark their Emotions of sorrow, anger, regret Today, Conestoga College’s media photographs of First Nations, Métis absence and remind us all that they and shame were shared. Partici- program and University of Guelph and Inuit women and children as will not be forgotten. pants then proceeded across the students all took photos. part of a social media campaign On October 4, 2017, Colleen, river, candle in hand, to Maryanne’s Métis Voyageur December 2017, Issue no. 98 17 MNO North Bay Métis Council hosts annual Harvest Gathering

submitted by Sophie Larocque. She shared her the youth, the elders as well as new Amanda Farrell experiences growing up within the people interested in the culture MNO Métis Family Wellbeing Métis community and talked about and help them connect with this Program Coordinator her present role as a leader within amazing heritage I can share with the MNO NBMC. them.” Sophie said, “The Harvest Gath- To promote an inclusive environ- n September 23, 2017, ering was a great success this year. ment, the MNO NBMC provided an the Métis Nation of As the Youth Representative for the allergy-friendly diet with of tradi- Ontario (MNO) North North Bay Métis Council it was my tional food selections for lunch and Bay Métis Council honour to greet everyone at the dinner. The Council had indoor and O(NBMC) welcomed 120 participants registration table. Citizens from all outdoor activities that promoted a to its annual Harvest Gathering at over Northern Ontario came to cel- harvest theme available to everyone the Callander Community Centre in ebrate our Harvest Gathering. It that included: archery, Métis Voya- Callander just outside of North Bay. was a beautiful day to have a sacred geur Games, basket weaving, dot The MNO NBMC takes pride in fire to connect with spiritually and art, sacred fire, storytelling, live maintaining connections with its receive knowledge... The Har- bilingual music, Clydesdale horse citizens, families and community vest Gathering brought back many wagon rides, cultural displays and members. The Council works col- memories of when I was a little girl vendors. lectively to provide cultural experi- and my father first started to bring The MNO NBMC with MNO staff ences to the communities they work me to gatherings and how excited from the North Bay MNO office with and to protect and practice the and proud I would get to wear my look forward to sharing more cul- Métis Way of Life. The MNO NBMC sash even though I did not fully tural programming to promote the with the MNO staff from the MNO understand our culture or our heri- Métis Way of Life within their com- North Bay office embraced a team- tage. As I am always expanding my munity. work approach to provide an excep- knowledge, I feel more confident tional community gathering. and able to share with the youth Please contact the office at705- (Left-right) MNO Community Support Services Coordinator Mary- One of the highlights of the Har- of my region. I am looking for- 474-2767 for more information of Kelly McCormick, Girl Guides of Canada 2nd year Brownie Charlotte vest Gathering was a presentation by ward to many more of these events upcoming programs. and MNO Community Wellness Coordinator Mattingly Turgeon at MNO NBMC Youth Representative being hosted and connecting with the MNO North Bay Métis Council Harvest Gathering.

MNO participates in Sisters in Spirit Walk in Midland

submitted by honour the memory of missing and Tracy Bald murdered Indigenous women and MNO Community Wellness girls. Marches take place in many Coordinator communities across Canada as well as internationally. These gatherings serve to raise awareness and to pro- n October 4, 2017, the vide support to families who have Métis Nation of Ontario lost a loved one. O (MNO) citizens and staff The Sisters in Spirit Walk started participated in the Sisters in Spirit at the office of the Georgian Bay Walk in Midland. Native Women’s Association and Sisters in Spirit Walk is a day over 100 people participated from where people honour the lives of numerous community organiza- Missing and Murdered Indigenous tions. Participants carried signs, Women and Girls (MMIWG). The banners and flags honouring the violence experienced by Indige- lives of missing and murdered Métis youth and canoeist André Nault carries the Métis flag during the Waterloo Pow Wow. nous women and girls in Canada Indigenous women and girls. is a national tragedy. Family mem- The Walk concluded at bers, Indigenous community mem- Neezhoday Park where a candle bers and concerned citizens gather light vigil was held. MNO Grand River Métis Council for a march every October 4 to participates in Waterloo Pow Wow submitted by opportunity for the Council. It Diane Kilby, MNO Grand River Métis Council Councilor allowed the Council to raise funds to pursue even more educational ventures. n September 23, 2017, the Expedition proudly carried the Despite temperatures well over Métis Nation of Ontario Métis flag during the grand 30° Celsius, there was vigorous O(MNO) Grand River Métis entrance and the closing ceremony. dancing, drumming, crafts and Council (GRMC) participated in The MNO GRMC did its abso- delicious traditional food. It was St. Paul’s University College’s 14th lute best to ensure that there was so hot that some people stayed as Annual Traditional Pow Wow at a visible Métis presence at the Pow close as possible to the shade pro- the Waterloo Aboriginal Education Wow, using the opportunity to vided by the MNO GRMC’s tent, Centre. This year marks the fourth answer the many questions posed while others wore cooling head consecutive year that the MNO by others about the Métis Nation bands to prevent heat exhaustion. GRMC participated in the event. and its people. This Pow Wow was a treasure André Nault who was a Participation in the Pow Wow and the Council hopes to be part (Left-right): Savannah Duhamel and Sophie Keen sharing the member of the 2017 MNO Canoe was also an excellent fundraising of the event again in 2018. flame during the Sisters in Spirit Walk in Midland. Métis Voyageur 18 December 2017, Issue no. 98 MNO citizens and Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry restore cemetery submitted by Yvonne Jensen MNO North Channel Métis Council President

n September 14, 2017, cleared up. Flanigan recently Métis Nation of Ontario received the ok to proceed with O(MNO) North Channel the clean up. Métis Council President Yvonne To reach the cemetery, Flanigan Jensen and a crew from her and her co-workers paddled in by Council, the MNO Historic Sault canoe and the rest of the workers St. Marie Métis Council (HSSMC) went by boat. and the Ministry of Natural Throughout the cemetery there Resources and Forestry (MNRF) were fallen branches from trees met at the Mississauga Delta and overgrown of weeds and Cemetery. bushings that covered most of the The crew included HSSMC tombstones. Flanigan’s team went President Kim Powley, Provisional in and did a lot of the heavy work Council of the Métis Nation including chain sawing and cutting of Ontario (PCMNO) Youth a lot of tree debris. Representative Mitch Case, MNO Secretary Gjos and HSSMC Secretary Steve Gjos and Representative Case performed Roxanne McCoy and Tammy a smudging ceremony for the Morningstar who are President area and also performed a pipe Jensen’s cousins and Tamara ceremony. Afterwards, the workers Flanigan from the MNRF and two placed red roses on all of the of her co-workers. tombstones. Several of President Jensen’s There are 14 people buried at ancestors are in the cemetery, the cemetery that the workers which was in quite a state of clearly identified. disrepair. Restoring the cemetery A big thank you to the MNRF, was very important to President Flanigan and her team for helping Jensen who has been working with the MNO get this cemetery (Left-right) Tammy Morningstar, Roxanne McCoy, MNO North Channel Métis Council President Flanigan for four years to try to get restored. Yvonne Jensen, MNO Historic Sault St. Marie Métis Council Secretary Steve Gjos, MNO Historic permission to have the cemetery Sault St. Marie Métis Council President Kim Powley and PCMNO Youth Representative Mitch Case. MNO Senator meets Lieutenant Governor in Owen Sound submitted by Susan Staves-Schank MNO Great Lakes Métis Council Office Coordinator

n June 9, 2017, Métis was grown from the MNO GLMC Nation of Ontario (MNO) community garden. O Great Lakes Métis Council In her remarks at the event, Lieu- (GLMC) Senator Ralph Wolf This- tenant Governor Dowdeswell noted tle and MNO GLMC Office Coordi- the country’s efforts at reconciliation nator Susan Staves-Schank met the with First Nations and Métis peo- Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell, ples who’ve been in Canada for mil- Lieutenant Governor of Ontario. lennia, she said “so it’s not simply a They met her Honour at an event celebration of 150 years, it’s much marking for the 100th anniversary more than that.” of when Billy Bishop received the Her Honour also hopes Canadi- for a dawn raid on a ans would look ahead at “what it German aerodrome on June 2, 1917. is that we’re going to need for this Senator Thistle and Ms. Staves- country to move forward even in the Schank provided a gift of sage and next 50 years and what it is we need (Left-right) MNO Great Lakes Métis Council Office Coordinator Susan Staves-Schank and MNO sweet grass to Lieutenant Governor to protect and safeguard about the GreatLakes Métis Council Senator Ralph Wolf Thistle meeting Lieutenant Governor Elizabeth Dowdeswell during the meet and way in which we live.” Dowdeswell at a Billy Bishop event in Owen Sound. greet at the event. The sweet grass Métis Voyageur December 2017, Issue no. 98 19

(Left-right) Rajan Anderson fiddles as MNO Clear Waters Métis (Front row, left-right) Roger Laurin, Brenda Laurin, Lorraine Mountney , Carl Ferris, Heather Garratt, Council Councilor Josh Clarke and MNO citizen Jennifer Cain jig at Sophie, Drew, Tracey Bald. (Back row, left-right) MNO GBMC Senator Ken “Two Dogs” Fraser, MNO fall picnic feast. GBMC Chairperson Larry J. Ferris, Debbie Ferris Giammattolo, Terra-Lynn Moreau-Vivian. MNO Clear Waters MNO Georgian Bay Métis Métis Council host a Council venture into Beausoleil fall picnic feast Island National Park submitted by 65 citizens in attendance. The local submitted by The group also saw the trees they had previ- Jerry Clarke Tim Hortons sponsored all the Larry J. Ferris ously planted on the Island and how well they were MNO Clear Waters Métis Council coffee for the event. MNO Georgian Bay Métis Council Chairperson doing. To recognize the council’s hard work, Parks President There was a variety of enter- Canada erected a sign acknowledging MNO GBMC. tainers including the astonishing During the guided walk, the park interpreters told Métis music of the Anderson Family he Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Georgian other groups about MNO GBMC’s contributions to n September 9, 2017, the along with the excitement of the Bay Métis Council (GBMC) made another trip the Island. Métis Nation of Ontario MNO Voyageur Games. Citizens T to Beausoleil Island National Park with staff The MNO GBMC also toured the Cemetery of O(MNO) Clear Waters Métis and other attendees had the oppor- from the MNO office in Midland as well as some the Oaks, which is one of the first cemeteries where Council (CWMC) hosted a fantas- tunity to learn jigging and try axe great volunteers on September 21, 2017. Back in First Nations and Métis people have been laid to rest. tic fall picnic feast event at Mohawk throwing as well as target practice August 2016, the MNO GBMC visited Beausoleil Signage at the Cemetery is written in Anishinaabe, Park in Ontario. with rifles and sling shots. Island to celebrate some of the achievements and English, French and Michif. This cemetery is special The event was organized by MNO A large trappers tent on site fea- work they had completed at the Cemetry of the Oaks to MNO staff member Lorraine Mountney as some CWMC Senator Maryjane But- tured an array of cultural displays, as reported in past issues of the Métis Voyageur. of her close relatives rest there. Mountney came back tenham and proved to be a great as well as MNO program materials. The MNO GBMC, MNO staff and volunteers glowing and said, “I found some of my relatives here success. The event was well received and participated in a guided walk with the park staff and and I would never had known this if I hadn’t come.” The Council supplied a won- the Council is planning on making enjoyed a wonderful barbeque lunch hosted by Brian This was Mountney’s first trip to the Island and it derful feast for the approximately it an annual event. Charles of Parks Canada. won’t be her last. The story of Louis Riel’s accordion submitted by Christa Lemelin MNO Peterborough and District Wapiti Métis Council Chair

n October 5, 2017, Métis Resistance in which many Peterbor- Nation of Ontario (MNO) ough men served. O Peterborough and District Walter Stewart was the first person Wapiti Métis Council (PDWMC) into the Batoche and the accordion Chair Christa Lemelin was invited was taken as a trophy of souvenir to the Peterborough Museum and (this is reportedly the same group Archives to learn about a very impor- that brought the Bell of Batoche to tant artifact in their collection. The Peterborough). Stewart then sent artifact was an accordion that once the accordion to George Stewart, belonged to Louis Riel. who’s family donated it to the orig- Museum staff gave her a behind- inal Peterborough Museum over 100 the-scenes tour and explained where years ago. the artifact was from and how it In 2002, the Peterborough came to be a part of their collection. Museum contacted the Saint-Bon- A close examination of the accor- iface Museum suggesting that the dion reveals that Louis Riel’s initials accordion should be repatriated back “L.D.R” inscribed on it. to the Métis people so that it could According to the information on be placed where it belonged. At that file, the accordion was found in the time, Saint-Boniface said they would belongings of Louis Riel in Batoche be happy to discuss this option, but (Left-right) Museum Curator Kim Reid, Museum Director Susan Neal, MNO Peterborough and District and was taken by Canadian sol- told the Peterborough Museum to Wapiti Métis Council Chair Christa Lemelin and Museum Curatorial Assistant Allison Hayes. dier Walter Stewart after the 1885 keep it safe in the meantime. Métis Voyageur 20 December 2017, Issue no. 98

Bishop Douglas Crosby from the Roman Catholic Diocese of Hamilton (left) exchanging gifts with MNO Great Lakes Métis Council Senator Ralph Wolf Thistle (right) at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Walkerton Ontario. MNO Senator speaks to Bishop about advancing truth and reconciliation submitted by Susan Schank MNO Great Lakes Métis Council Office Coordinator

n September 21, 2017, Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Great Lakes Métis Council Senator Ralph Wolf Thistle spoke with Bishop ODouglas Crosby of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Hamilton about current developments between Métis Nation and Canada around truth and reconciliation. Senator Thistle and Bishop Crosby met in Walkerton Ontario at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church. During the meeting there was an exchange of gifts and expressions of respect and recognition. After the service, Senator Thistle met with many members of the con- gregation and had positive conversations on how the Church and Métis can move forward to make Canada a better place by advancing the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

Bishop presented with MNO Women’s Shawl submitted by the guest speaker at the Anglican Pearl Gabona, MNO Women’s Church Women’s 50th Anniver- Council Representative sary Lunch at St George’s Anglican Church in Newcastle. Bishop Shaw is an MNO citi- n September 26, 2017, zen and daughter of Honourary Métis Nation of Ontario MNO Senator Ruth Wagner. She O(MNO) Women’s Council was recently installed as a Bishop of Representative Pearl Gabona had the Anglican Church of Canada and the honour of presenting Bishop is one of the first Métis to achieve Riscylla Shaw with a MNO Wom- this high position in any Christian en’s Council Shawl while she was Church in Canada.

MNO Women’s Council Representative Pearl Gabona (right) presents a MNO Women’s Council Shawl to Parish Bishop Riscylla Shaw (left) at the Anglican Church Women’s 50th Anniversary Lunch at St. George’s in Newcastle. Métis Voyageur December 2017, Issue no. 98 21

Members of the MNO Toronto and York Region Métis Council (TYRMC) with the Ivan Flett Memorial Dancers (Left-right): MNO TYRMC Women’s Representative Shirley Debassige, MNO TYRMC Councilor John Budarick, MNO TYRMC Secretary Treasurer Marilyn Hews, MNO TYRMC Councilor Kezia Picard, Ivan Flett Memorial Dancers Jacob Harris, Cieanna Harris, MNO TYRMC Citizen Mike Berg, MNO TYRMC Citizen Michael Harris, MNO TYRM Senator Constance Simmonds, MNO TYRMC President Tera Beaulieu, MNO TYRMC Youth Representative Christine Skura and MNO TYRMC Chair Todd Ross.

Celebrating Métis MNO Toronto and York Region Métis Council hosts first Rendezvous

submitted by Traditional Knowledge Keeper Jim assist with the planning as well as After an opening prayer by Sen- Todd Ross, MNO Toronto and York Region Métis Council Chair Tolles also set up historical and cul- the help throughout the day. ator Simmonds, President Beaulieu tural displays where they were on All of this was made possible by offered a welcome to all participants. hand to educate the guests about some very generous donations. Special guests at the Rendezvous n October 14, 2017, Métis history and culture. Métis culture and heritage. The Toronto Foundation Canada included members and/or represen- the Métis Nation of The day featured some of the Other areas included vendors and 150 Community Foundations of tatives from the Provisional Council Ontario (MNO) Toronto best musicians and fiddlers around tents for learning and fun: Métis dot Canada provided a grant for the of the Métis Nation of Ontario, the and York Region Métis including: Amy Pinkus and Nathan art painting, colouring and finger Rendezvous. It was with careful con- MNO Youth Council, the MNO Vet- OCouncil (TYRMC) hosted its first Rideout who played folk-indie weaving was facilitated by Elani sideration that the Council applied erans’ Council, the MNO Women’s ever Rendezvous at Black Creek fiddle and guitar duets; the Métis Pappas and MNO Métis Family to a grant tied to “Canada 150,” Council, the MNO Durham Pioneer Village on the border of the Fiddler Quartet members Conlin Wellbeing Coordinator Justin however, the Council agreed the Métis Council, the MNO Credit MNO TYRMC’s jurisdiction. and Alyssa Delbaere-Sawchuk, who Dufour; Kyle Burton and Megan opportunity to offer MNO citizens River Métis Council, the MNO The MNO TYRMC Rendezvous were joined by double bassist Scott Southwell led a jigging workshop the Council’s own grand scale cel- Niagara Region Métis Council, was a celebration of Métis culture Kemp; the country band South- for participants; MNO Commu- ebration to honour the Métis stories Mississauga’s of New Credit First and provided an opportunity for bound, all the students in the nity Relations Manager Hank Row- and history outweighed those con- Nation, Regional Municipality of Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Humber College Bachelor of Music linson facilitated riffle shooting and cerns and the Council’s was incred- York, Toronto City Council and the people alike to gather together to program; and Alicia and Liam Blore hatchet throwing; and Brittany Mat- ibly grateful to the Toronto Founda- Toronto Foundation. Greetings were learn about and celebrate the Métis who played fiddle and guitar while thews and Connor McNamara facil- tion for providing funding for their also sent from the Minister of Indig- Nation in the Toronto and York the Toronto Métis jiggers demon- itated Métis beadwork workshops precedent setting Rendezvous. enous Relations and Reconciliation areas. strated traditional jigs. The final throughout the day. They were The Council was also received David Zimmer. who was unable to The event featured entertainers, act was the Ivan Flett Memorial assisted by a number of York Uni- support from the Canadian Imperial attend. children’s activities, Métis Voyageur Dancers who travelled from Win- versity students who participated Bank of Canada (CIBC), Printing This precedent-setting event Games, traditional teachings, ven- nipeg and practically lit the stage as part of a course credit offered House, York University, the Bank would not have been possible dors, beading, jigging lessons, his- on fire with their high energy tra- through a collaboration with York of Sharing Circle. Sco- without the Council’s dedicated vol- torical and cultural displays. ditional dances mixed with modern University. ciabank, JobReady CPR, Taking IT unteers, planning committee, part- The space at Black Creek Pio- and hip hop jigs. The day took an incredible Global and Gangster Cheese. ners, generous sponsors and a lot of neer Village was divided into sev- At the center of the grounds was a amount of planning which began The Council was very pleased work from the Council. eral zones including a main stage. At fire pit where MNO TYRMC Senator in the fall of 2016. The Council put that so many people were able to The Council thanks all who made the main stage, MNO Youth Council Constance Simmonds and Virginia a tremendous amount of effort into join them throughout the day and this event very successful. President Mitch Case was the host. Barter provided traditional teach- planning and was incredibly fortu- engaged with their Senator, artists He introduced and bridged each ings and storytelling. Virginia and nate for all of the support numerous and Knowledge Keepers to learn performance with education about MNO Credit River Métis Council volunteers who came forward to about Métis life and traditions. Métis Voyageur 22 December 2017, Issue no. 98 Five Councils participate in Governance and Finance Training submitted by Glen Lipinski, MNO Community Relations Coordinator

n the last few months, five Métis MNO has been able to continually Nation of Ontario (MNO) com- develop and deliver Governance munity councils participated in and Finance Training that helps MNO Governance and Finance improve community councils per- ITraining. On September 23-24, form their work. 2017, the MNO Thunder Bay Métis Since the MNO has offered this Council (TBMC), MNO Greenstone training, the following commu- (Front row, left-right) Deanna Cooper, MNO Greenstone Métis Council President William Gordon, Kelly Métis Council (GMC) and the MNO nity councils have participated: the Camacho and Senator Patricia Dryden. (Left-right) middle row: MNO Thunder Bay Métis Council Superior North Shore Métis Council MNO Moon River, Sunset Country, President Jean Camirand, Senator Ken Simard, Allan Gordon, Mike Reneaud and Tim Sinclair. (Back row, (SNSMC) received training together Kenora, Northwest, Windsor, Clear left-right) Madeline Dennhardt, Brian Prarie, Trudy Bellamy, Raymond Dufault, Lori LaForme, Wendy in Thunder Bay. On October 14-16, Waters, High Land Waters, North Houston and MNO Superior North Shore Métis Council President Trent Desaulniers. 2017, the MNO Northern Lights Bay, Temiskaming, Northern Lights, Métis Council (NLMC) participated Thunder Bay, Atikokan and Area, in a Governance and Finance Train- Niagara Region, Peterborough and ing that was held in Cochrane and District Wapiti, Grand River, Credit on November 4-5, 2017, MNO River, Toronto and York Region, Toronto and York Region Métis Sudbury, Ottawa Region, North Council (TYRMC) received their Channel, Great Lakes and Georgian training in Toronto. Bay Métis Councils. Each of these training workshops The course is a two-day seminar were facilitated by the MNO Com- held locally that explains the role of munity Relations Coordinator Glen community councils as the MNO’s Lipinski. local governments, whose structure The MNO benefits immensely and purpose is coordinated through from the dedicated volunteers who each council’s charter agreement are members of its chartered com- with the MNO. The course covers munity councils. These hard- everything from how to run effec- working individuals spend hundreds tive meetings and engage citizens in MNO Northern Lights Métis Council members: MNO Toronto and York Region Métis Council: of hours building and strengthening council activities to budgeting and (Left-right) Dennis Beaulne, Jackie Courville, Aurel (Front, left-right) Shirley Debassige, Kezia Picard, their Métis communities. the various financial practices, regu- Courville Gerry Courville, Chris Lalonde and MNO Senator Constance Simmonds, Chair Todd Ross. Through funding provided by lations and legislation that commu- Northern Lights Métis Council President Doug (Back, left-right) Marilyn Hew, Tera Beaulieu, the New Relationship Fund, the nity councils follow. Hull. Mike Berg, John Budarick.

EDITORIAL All opinions represent the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the positions and policies of the Métis Nation of Ontario.

he Sac-a-Toutmet is used for many purposes, one of from the Red River bank. I say it reminds me of the travel which is to hold precious and useful items. It varies in routes taken by my ancestors along the waterways. How the T size depending on the individual’s needs. Métis harvested off the land and travelled to explore new The one that I use to teach students and how to make their land and remain connected to family relations as well as other own is worn around the neck. It is the same as the medicine Indigenous communities. pouch our First Nations cousins sometimes wear. A silver cross is enclosed to keep my faith healthy with In my teachings to students and at times for adults, I will the creator and asking for guidance and protection during relate the contents of my Sac-a-Toutmet in order to promote my travels. lessons for peace of mind, focus, respect for self, for others, Inside the pouch I have a pinch of tobacco wrapped in and for nature and the environment. cloth for an offering when the need is encountered. After the teachings, participants make their own with A .22 calibre bullet is the last item to remind me of har- the deer hide and other materials provided. They may later vesting food off the land for my family, extended family and choose some articles that I gift to them to add to the ones myself. I always offer tobacco to the Creator when I have been they have yet to find. successful in harvesting a moose. I thank creator and the ani- I begin by telling participants the contents of the Sac-a- mal spirit for the food it will provide. Toutmet are personal and kept to one-self unless the person Showing these items to the students always generate wearing it chooses to share why certain items are enclosed. thoughts and conversations. I then explain how the Tac-a- I always share and explain the meaning behind Toutmet helps me in times of need. I say to the each item collected in mine and how the whole is students when challenged you need to make good used to help me in times of challenges. choices in life and it is not always an easy task. Taking one item out at a time and telling the When stressed stop I encourage them to take story behind them captures the students attention their Sac-a-Toutmet in hand and close their eyes. to what is said and a lesson hopefully learned from Sac-a-Toutmet I tell them to think of the first item - see it in their them. By Richard Aubin mind - remember the good things it means to The following are the items in my Sac-a-Toutmet. you and let the good from it come to you in your I begin with the four sacred plants that are in thoughts. I tell them to breath in slowly, hear their small packets. These are cedar, sage, sweet grass and tobacco. You take something you leave something….I left tobacco in breath and remember when they found this object and how I explain in general how most First Nations people and many respect for the wolf life force. happy it made you feel to receive it from the land or from Métis people use them. They can be used for prayer time, I mention to participants have respect towards the ani- someone they care about. I encourage them to think about medicines and therapeutic practice. mals, the environment, self and others. the person that gave them the item. I also show them a wolf’s fang or tooth and tell the stu- I then show my audience a small packet containing peb- I instruct the audience to repeat the actions until they have dents we need respect for wildlife. I admire the wolf for its bles collected from Louis Riel’s resting place. If participants visualized all of the contents and finish their meditation with family unity with the pack and the determination with which are not aware who Louis was, I normally will give a bit of a a prayer to the Creator. it will fight to protect itself and others in its pack. One day I talk on his history. Then I explain because he was our leader In doing this practice they will have taken a moment to found a dead wolf on the side of the highway. From respect and fought with the ferocity of a wolf for our rights, I left breath. They will have reduced their frustrations, anger or fear I picked it up and took it to a stream I found and laid it to one of the wolf claws in the ground where the pebbles were of what may be challenging them at the time. rest there. taken. I believe if you take something then you should leave Now they are ready to think of a good choice of words or Returning with time passed I collected a tooth and two something behind out of respect. actions to use to address the challenge they have encountered. claws for myself in order to use it for teaching purposes. Another packet is shown containing sediment collected Be kind to others and yourself. Métis Voyageur December 2017, Issue no. 98 23 ACHIEVEMENTS

2017 PETRO CANADA FUELLING ATHLETE AND COACHING EXCELLENCE GRANT (FACE) MNO citizen receives grant for athletic excellence

submitted by Training Centre in Ontario as a national-level Kristin McCoy high performance athlete. Manager, Regional Training Centre Maura is a three-time Canadian national Synchronized Swimming in Ontario team member and has won several awards, including placing first in Canada in the 13-15 year old duet category, as well as receiving n September 18, 2017, Métis gold in the 12 and under solo category. Nation of Ontario (MNO) citi- Her favourite part of the sport is the team zen and synchronized swimmer event and she has been fortunate to swim Maura McLean was awarded the with excellent teams under the direction of OPetro-Canada Fuelling Athlete 2017 Grant. great coaches. Maura’s various teams have Every year, Petro-Canada selects 55 prom- won many gold and silver medals in several ising athletes from across Canada to receive different age categories at various Canadian these grants as part of their Fueling Athletes competitions throughout the years. and Coaching Excellence (FACE) Program. Now at the 15-18 years old or junior These athletes and their coaches are awarded level, Maura especially loves combining her a $10,000 FACE grant to help them along overall athleticism with the artistic elements their journey, with $5,000 going directly of the sport, making it both extremely dif- to the athlete and $5,000 going to their ficult and rewarding. She trains 30 hours a coach. FACE grants are often used for train- week at Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre and ing, equipment, coach education and travel works hard at juggling a full-time high school expenses for competitions. schedule with the high demands of synchro- Maura and her synchronize swimming nized swimming, a sport which requires coach Jennifer Koptie both received the FACE many hours of land training in strength and grant. flexibility as well as countless hours of water Maura started synchronized swimming training. when she was six years old. She quickly fell Showing her well-rounded approach to in love with the sport and moved from a rec- life, Maura said: “my dream is to be a good reational program to the provincial-level, and person who is kind to others and who always MNO citizen then the national-level program at Variety Vil- does her best at everything she tries, both as Maura McLean lage in Scarborough, Ontario. Three years ago an athlete and in life.” Maura was selected to train at the Regional

MNO citizen wins karate gold at World Police and Fire Games submitted by of Force from: the Correctional Reta Gordon Service of Canada; the Royal MNO Honourary Senator Canadian Mounted Police; and the with files from MASUCCESS Martial Arts News Deputy Minister of Public Safety. Since retiring, he has filled up his free time by writing his fourth étis Nation of Ontario attracted 7,000 participants from book and winning gold medals at (MNO) citizen all over the world to compete in 70 the Montreal Open Invitational Perry William Kelly sports. Karate Tournament and the North won a gold medal Kelly is also a multi-martial arts American Police and Fire Games Mfor the Karate during the 2017 instructor who uses his success in in Drummond Quebec. Most World Police and Fire Games in competitive Karate as a platform recently, he has been featured on Los Angeles on August 14, 2017. to raise awareness of the problem CTV’s Interesting People with Joel Kelly won in the over 50 years of of post-traumatic stress disorder Haslam where he discussed using age and under 75 kilograms (165 (PTSD) in law enforcement, his profile as an internationally pounds) division. military and first responders. successful athlete to raise Fifty-nine year old Kelly Kelly is a former MNO awareness about Law Enforcement proved that participation in martial representative to the City of PTSD. arts can last a lifetime. Having Gloucester (now part of Ottawa) MNO citizens have recognized returned to Karate in 2016 after a and is also a lawyer, author and Kelly’s past accomplishments and 45-year hiatus, he ran up a string former criminology professor. he has been previously featured of gold-medal performances at He recently retired from the on the MNO website. Kelly will various competitions such as the Department of Public Safety and turn 60 in November of this year North American Police and Fire over the course of his 30 year and he intends to fight in the 60 Games and the Montreal Open career received five executive plus division of major martial arts Invitationals. Kelly’s success led to departmental commendations for tournaments in 2018. his 2017 championship victory in his contributions in the fields of MNO citizen Perry William Kelly receives gold at the 2017 Karate at the World Games, which Law Enforcement Training and Use World Police and Fire Games. Métis Voyageur 24 December 2017, Issue no. 98 MNO citizen receives Order of Ontario Obituary submitted by Debbie Ferris-Gianmmattolla MNO Health and Wellness Community Support Services Coordinator

n June 28, 2017, Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) citizen “Little Brown Bear” Ernest Matton was one of 28 people invested into the Order of Ontario. The Order of OOntario is awarded to individuals who have demon- strated outstanding qualities of individual excellence and achievement. Matton was selected to receive the Order because of his work with the Michael Garron Toronto East-Health Network family. There, he manages and facilitates the newly accredited Aboriginal Healing Program, a pro- gram he has spent the past six years developing. Matton blends Indigenous teachings with Western information to provide holistic healing approaches for Indigenous and non-Indigenous members of the com- munity. According to Matton: “being Aboriginal is not a life style it is a way of life. Matton is an expert in the areas of trauma, addic- Celebrating tion and mental health, and he is both a sought-after speaker and effective group facilitator. the life of Matton wears the yellow Métis Sash with pride to signify that he honours missing and murdered Indig- MNO citizen enous women and girls and that he speaks to the com- mitment to breaking the cycle of violence and abuse. Alphonse Matton’s guiding philosophy is simple: “People don’t care how much you know. They want to know how MNO citizen Ernest Matton (left) with Ontario Lieutenant Governor Elizabeth much you care.” Dowdeswell following his investiture into the Order of Ontario. Joseph Breland

n September 5, 2017, a celebration of life was held for Métis Nation of Ontario O(MNO) citizen Alphonse Joseph Breland at the Branch 123 of the Royal Canadian Legion in Waterford. Alphonse passed away on September 1, 2017. The celebration was organized by his daughter, MNO citizen Angele Watson. Alphonse was one of 15 children born to Wilfred Alfred Breland and Ida Robinson in northern Alberta. Ida was Wilfred’s second wife. They lived in St. Xavier, St. Paul and then moved to Peace River. He was sent to live with other families sporadically from the time he was five until he set out on his own when he was around 14. Contributions He was proud to have driven Rates & security for business plans teams of five horses on various customized to farms. He also drove the horses and ongoing moving trees from the forest to Financing up promote Métis support the mill in various lumber camps to $1,000,000 business success and was part of the team that cleared the land for the Cold for resources and Lake Air Force Base. related sector Once retired, Alphonse businesses moved south to Waterford and was thrilled to join the Métis community there. He loved going to the occasional gatherings that Métis and Six Nations hosted and also enjoyed making moccasins and joining the potluck dinners. Alphonse’s roots trace back to Egg Lake in northern Manitoba where we found his grandfather’s family listed in the 1906 Census. Pascal Breland, who is famous for his association with Louis Riel, was the brother of Alphonse’s great grandfather Alexander Breland.

 Submitted by mvdf.ca MNO citizen Angele Watson