Mamawokamatowak”

Saddle Lake Cree Nation “Mamawokamatowak”

Whats Inside Honoring Our Mothers Kihew Asiniy Cultural Camp Orange Shirt Day Elders Gathering

Sept/Oct 2019 Edition “Mamawokamatowak” Chiefs Call For Treaty Based O TANSI N Funding I Sharing Statistics Arrangements H Oct. 23, 2019 /CNW/ - Treaty Think Tank Chiefs (Onion Lake Cree Nation, Ermineskin Cree Nation, Kehewin Cree Nation, Alexander C First Nation, O’Chiese First Nation, Tsuut’ina Nation, Saddle Lake Cree Nation, Little Red River Cree Nation, and Samson Cree Nation) I and Knowledge on behalf of their members met in Saddle Lake Cree Nation on Treaty No. 6 Territory to discuss the on-going Treaty relationship K between Sovereign Nations and the Crown. The Chiefs, represent- ing Sovereign Nations that continue to live on Turtle Island since I time immemorial reject Canada’s on-going Treaty termination S on FASD agenda. Eric J. Large th Chief Lee Crowchild states, “We remind all Canadian political par- K To commemorate FASD Awareness Day, September 9 , 2019 ties that we only agreed to share the lands under Treaty. We did not relinquish our sovereignty and we continue to live our way of W Introduction determinants of health. He also mentioned the life, our inherent laws, and governance structures.” The successor I am sharing briefly summarized information from walk-in approach to prevention of the She/Herway state of Canada in inheriting the legal obligation of Treaty from the A British Crown must accept the oral understanding as understood my attendance at the First International Conference Models in BC. by Elders and the original peoples. P on Prevention of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, Nancy Poole, BC Centre of Excellence and BC Wom- The past Liberal government established co-development process- in Edmonton, Alberta September 23 – 25, 2013. I en’s Hospital es with institutions and organizations such as the Assembly of First O believe this information still has importance and rel- Presented “Effective FASD Prevention” with Nations. These processes intend to municipalize all First Nations evance today. (1) Intervention information campaign and warning which will undermine the sovereignty of those Nations who have W made Treaty with the Crown. To achieve its purposes, the Feder- Dr. David Butler-Jones, Chief Public Medical Officer labels al government is offering Chiefs to enter into New Contribution I from Canada (2) Identification and brief interventions with dual Agreements and 10 year grants that have no guarantee of further *Spoke of the importance of safe spaces such as in focus on alcohol and contraception intervention funding. Once Chiefs enter into these two agreements, Bill C-38; N Bill C-45; Bill C-27; Bill C-86; Bill C-97; Bill S-3; Bill C-91; and Bill eastside Vancouver where Sheway is a pregnancy (3) specialized support for pregnant women with C-92, components of the termination agenda, are enacted. program for women dealing with alcohol and drug alcohol related problems such as in the Sheway, Under threat of withholding funding, these co-development pro- issues, or women who parent children less than 18 Vancouver BC Women’s Hospital and Healthcare cesses led by the Federal Government do not respect free, prior, months old, provides supports for nutrition, de- programs and informed consent; a right entitled to Treaty Nations. Chief velopment, parenting, and housing, primary and (4) Parent-Child Assistance Program (P-CAP) and Mackinaw asserts, “The AFN and other institutions do not have the authority to act on behalf of Sovereign Treaty Nations. Fur- pre-natal health care, trauma care, and counselling, other mentoring programs such as the 1981 Univer- thermore, an international pre-emptive norm exists stating that no *Warned of the risk when drinking while pregnant sity of Washington program nation may make laws for another nation.” *Suggested respect and consideration of the role of Ms. Poole briefly described the effectiveness of “We reject any legislation that breaches and undermines Trea- people (helpers/staff); Referred to FASD not as a life peer to peer helping program (mom to mom) and ty. Our Sovereign Nations have our own inherent processes that sentence but as a challenge involving prevention, of home visiting programs. are in line with our ancestral laws and governance”, maintains Chief Watchmaker. It is the responsibility of Chiefs to intervene care, and treatment. Dr. Peter Butt, University of Saskatchewan pre- to ensure the protection of Treaty and Inherent Rights for fu- Dr. Sterling Clarren, clinical professor of Pediatrics, sented ture generations. Okimaw Shirt states, “We will continue to seek UBC, University of Washington presented “A Histo- “Alcohol Screening Brief Intervention and Refer- accountability and transparency for our “Indian Monies” that were set aside under Treaty.” The work being done is critical for a ry and Future of FASD Prevention” ral:…” positive on-going respectful relationship between the federal state *Dr. Clarren dealt briefly with the medical model Made recommendations on National Alcohol and Sovereign Nations on the lands shared to the “depth of the of the disease mechanism, of alcohol terato gene- Screening, stated the importance of screening, plough” by our peace and friendship Treaties. sis [a teratogen is an agent which can cause a birth Outlined some challenges to primary care and con- The honour of the Crown is at stake thus the Chiefs demand an im- defect], alcohol is causal & is a co-factor to con- ducting a brief intervention and how it can help pre- mediate meeting between our Sovereign Nations and the Crown. sumption. He said early drinking & binge drinking vent the development of drinking patterns that lead SOURCE Ermineskin Cree Nation are the most dangerous situations. He mentioned to FASD 3 alternate approaches to prevention (1) giving in- In reply to my question of what might be a treat- formation as awareness campaigns, (2) direct inter- ment or approach to chronic alcoholism, actions, (3) placing FASD prevention with the social He said there is a certain drug that reduces the urge 2 continued on page 6... “Mamawokamatowak” Chiefs Call For Saddle Lake Cree Nation Treaty Based TANSI Funding Chief and Council Sharing Statistics Arrangements Oct. 23, 2019 /CNW/ - Treaty Think Tank Chiefs (Onion Lake Cree Nation, Ermineskin Cree Nation, Kehewin Cree Nation, Alexander First Nation, O’Chiese First Nation, Tsuut’ina Nation, Saddle Lake Cree Nation, Little Red River Cree Nation, and Samson Cree Nation) and Knowledge on behalf of their members met in Saddle Lake Cree Nation on Treaty No. 6 Territory to discuss the on-going Treaty relationship between Sovereign Nations and the Crown. The Chiefs, represent- ing Sovereign Nations that continue to live on Turtle Island since Chief Eric Shirt Eddy Makokis Jason Whiskeyjack time immemorial reject Canada’s on-going Treaty termination on FASD agenda.

th Chief Lee Crowchild states, “We remind all Canadian political par- To commemorate FASD Awareness Day, September 9 , 2019 ties that we only agreed to share the lands under Treaty. We did not relinquish our sovereignty and we continue to live our way of determinants of health. He also mentioned the life, our inherent laws, and governance structures.” The successor state of Canada in inheriting the legal obligation of Treaty from the walk-in approach to prevention of the She/Herway British Crown must accept the oral understanding as understood Models in BC. by Elders and the original peoples. Nancy Poole, BC Centre of Excellence and BC Wom- The past Liberal government established co-development process- Cherilene Steinhauer Pamela Quinn John Large en’s Hospital es with institutions and organizations such as the Assembly of First Presented “Effective FASD Prevention” with Nations. These processes intend to municipalize all First Nations (1) Intervention information campaign and warning which will undermine the sovereignty of those Nations who have made Treaty with the Crown. To achieve its purposes, the Feder- labels al government is offering Chiefs to enter into New Contribution (2) Identification and brief interventions with dual Agreements and 10 year grants that have no guarantee of further focus on alcohol and contraception intervention funding. Once Chiefs enter into these two agreements, Bill C-38; Bill C-45; Bill C-27; Bill C-86; Bill C-97; Bill S-3; Bill C-91; and Bill (3) specialized support for pregnant women with C-92, components of the termination agenda, are enacted. alcohol related problems such as in the Sheway, Under threat of withholding funding, these co-development pro- Vancouver BC Women’s Hospital and Healthcare cesses led by the Federal Government do not respect free, prior, Darcy McGilvery James Steinhauer Leonard Jackson programs and informed consent; a right entitled to Treaty Nations. Chief (4) Parent-Child Assistance Program (P-CAP) and Mackinaw asserts, “The AFN and other institutions do not have the authority to act on behalf of Sovereign Treaty Nations. Fur- other mentoring programs such as the 1981 Univer- thermore, an international pre-emptive norm exists stating that no sity of Washington program nation may make laws for another nation.” Ms. Poole briefly described the effectiveness of “We reject any legislation that breaches and undermines Trea- peer to peer helping program (mom to mom) and ty. Our Sovereign Nations have our own inherent processes that “As long as the sun of home visiting programs. are in line with our ancestral laws and governance”, maintains Chief Watchmaker. It is the responsibility of Chiefs to intervene Dr. Peter Butt, University of Saskatchewan pre- to ensure the protection of Treaty and Inherent Rights for fu- sented ture generations. Okimaw Shirt states, “We will continue to seek shines, the grass grows “Alcohol Screening Brief Intervention and Refer- accountability and transparency for our “Indian Monies” that were set aside under Treaty.” The work being done is critical for a ral:…” positive on-going respectful relationship between the federal state and the rivers flow” Made recommendations on National Alcohol and Sovereign Nations on the lands shared to the “depth of the Screening, stated the importance of screening, plough” by our peace and friendship Treaties. Outlined some challenges to primary care and con- The honour of the Crown is at stake thus the Chiefs demand an im- ducting a brief intervention and how it can help pre- mediate meeting between our Sovereign Nations and the Crown. vent the development of drinking patterns that lead SOURCE Ermineskin Cree Nation to FASD In reply to my question of what might be a treatment or approach to chronic alcoholism, He said there is a certain drug that reduces the urge continued on page 6... 3 “Mamawokamatowak” “Mamawokamatowak” Much Music Dance KihewKihew AsiniyAsiniy CulturalCultural CampCamp

Saddle Lake Eagle Healing Lodge held a Back to School Bash with a Much Music Dance on Friday September 20, 2019. It was a great experience to bring back to Saddle Lake. The Community Youth Helpers worked and organized the dance for other youth to have a safe and fun night. The fund raiser was for the Community Youth Helpers. Security was on site as well as a canteen. A photo booth was also on site for the teens to get some selfies with their friends. Keep up the great work Eagle Healing Lodge and Community Youth Helpers. Kihew Asiniy Education Centre starts the year off with Cultural Camp on September 24, 2019. Students participated in rattle making, pow wow teachings, moose nose soup making, fish scaling and fish smoking, bannock and tea making, mini drum making, wagons rides and hand game teachings. It was a wonderful way to start the school year. SLCN Eagle Nest Kihew Asiniy is dedicated to the cultural education of our youth. Each year is filled with cultural teachings and events. The community is excited to see what comes next. Healing Lodge Moose Hunt Land Based Education

Welcome to our Classroom! Home Sweet Home! Land based teachings was truly a lifetime experience for all of us. Mewasin. Thanks to Peter Jack- son for his guidance and teachings, Roland Berland for putting the Moose down, and Daryl Quinney for showing us the territory! Can’t forget the Wellness Centre for sponsoring the amazing opportunity for our youth! AiyHiy Kisemanitoh truly gifted us, and blessed us on this hunting trip. Once we arrived back everyone shook hands with each other and parted ways to their home fires with new friendships and a successful hunting story to share with family and 4 friends and future hunting buddies. - Johnathan Cardinal “Mamawokamatowak” “Mamawokamatowak” Much Music Dance KihewKihew AsiniyAsiniy CulturalCultural CampCamp

Welcome to our Classroom! Home Sweet Home! Land based teachings was truly a lifetime experience for all of us. Mewasin. Thanks to Peter Jack- son for his guidance and teachings, Roland Berland for putting the Moose down, and Daryl Quinney for showing us the territory! Can’t forget the Wellness Centre for sponsoring the amazing opportunity for our youth! AiyHiy Kisemanitoh truly gifted us, and blessed us on this hunting trip. Once we arrived back everyone shook hands with each other and parted ways to their home fires with new friendships and a successful hunting story to share with family and friends and future hunting buddies. - Johnathan Cardinal 5 “Mamawokamatowak” “Mamawokamatowak”

agnosis *Tools in the National Screening Kit are: meconium testing with focus on the first stool of the newborn; continued from page 2... neurobehavioral screening tool (NST); medicine wheel student; & a maternal drinking guide to drink alcohol. Director of Health Protection, Health Assessment Dr. Osman Ipsirogul, Division of Developmental Dr. Malcom King, a member of the Mississaugas of & Surveillance, First Nations & Inuit Health Branch, Paediatrics, UBC the New Credit First Nation in Ontario Health Canada, Alberta Region Presented “Challenging ‘ADHD’ and ‘Familial ADHD’ “Presented “FASD Prevention among Different Popu- “Presented “Health Canada’s role: Supporting First in Patients with FASD” lations” Nations communities in prevention” *[ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity dis- *Revealed FASD is prevalent among Indigenous com- *Stated exact prevalence of FASD in Canada is not order, a medical condition in which a person affect- munities known ed has differences in brain development & activity Presented 3 approaches to prevention *Estimated 9.1 per 1,000 live births or 1% of the pop- that affects attention, ability to sit still, & self-control. (1) recognition & ownership of the cause which is ex- ulation of Canada (2006) Source: http://kidshealth.org>adhd ] posure in utero to mainly alcohol *Estimated 350,000 Canadians living with FASD *Dr. Ipsirogul dealt with sleep disorders & their prev- (2) recognition & understanding of risk factors & to *In Alberta, at least 36,000 persons with FASD alence in children & adolescents with FASD include Aboriginal communities taking ownership *The social determinants of health are poverty, poor *Referred to a case study on disruptive sleep/wake he said this involves understanding the role of pover- education, untreated mental illness, physical health, behaviors ty, marginalization, & colonialization on risk factors, employment, language, physical environment, & Indi- *Stated that chronic sleep deprivation affects day Indian residential schools, and foster-care placement an residential schools time behavior & that there are medication strategies (3) consideration must be taken in risk and harm re- *Youth abstinence from alcohol & marital status are in FASD treatment duction, there must be collaboration not top-down higher for youth whose parents were living compared *Up to 90% of addictions begin with sleep problems requirement to youth whose parents separated, divorced, or were & pain Addressing the prevention issue involves help for ad- deceased *The symptoms of sleep disorders affect 95% of dicted women overcoming stigma, applying cultur- *Alcohol consumption of First Nations & non-First Na- adults al appropriate programs & services & working with tions shows it is less in First Nations *There is a children’s sleep network that can assist communities. Consumption of youth shows 50% have consumed 2 in setting priorities & in dealing with changing priori- Dr. Jacqueline Pei, Department of Educational Psy- or 3 times per month, consumption increases with ties, website: www.childrenssleepnetwork.org; Face- chology, University of Alberta age book: www.facebook.com/ChildrensSleepNework “Presented “FASD prevalence among youth who is the *There is no difference in binge drinking by sex Honourable Frank Oberle, Associate Minister of Ser- target group and has effect on adolescent develop- *Stated the FNIHB FASD Program deals with preven- vices For Persons with Disabilities ment” tion, awareness, education training, & mapping *Said 36,000 people are affected with FASD in Alber- *Said in adolescent development there is transition *Prevention is also dealt with through the FASD Men- ta and changing expectations, but in an adolescent with toring Program in Alberta *Said that Alberta has a 10 year plan in developing FASD there are similar expectations but come with *The Parent-Child Assistance Program (PCAP) involves outcomes & refining strategies through the use of functional deficits impairing ability to reach expecta- a 3 year home visitation of mentoring of the mother basic science, research partnerships, conferences, & tions on all services expanding Alberta’s knowledge research *Suggested we need to go to levels of prevention that *Between 2016 – 2011 the average age of first time *Advised that supports & services are important includes alcohol awareness & pregnancy, brief inter- First Nation mothers was 21, the average age of First Said there is an estimated thousands of babies ventions, & targeting support for risk groups Nations fathers was 24 born yearly in Alberta with FASD *She said brief interventions are effective, inexpen- *In 2007 – 2011First Nation birth rates declined *Said one baby costs $800,000 in services in its life, sive, & reduce sexual behavior Dr. Albert Chudley, University of Manitoba present- that this will not cure but improve, lessen, & com- *Said how the Girls Action Foundation promotes dis- ed pensate cussion on sex, alcohol, & advertising “The Role of the Canadian FASD Screening Tool Kit in *With a long term strategy, prevention can be dealt *For FASD youth at high risk, Dr. Pei referred to the the Prevention of FASD” with, & success & lives ensured WRAP Coaching Project, a Wellness, Resiliency, & *Said screening is a public health service where mem- *10 FASD births can be prevented & that prevention Partnership Project. bers of a population are asked a question or offered could grow into 10 healthy adults. 66 Dr. Wadieh Yacoub, Medical Officer of Health and a test, there are limitations with screening versus di- “Mamawokamatowak” “Mamawokamatowak”

agnosis Dr. Amy Salmon, Coordinator of Sheway, Clinical *Tools in the National Screening Kit are: meconium Assistant Professor, School of Population & Public testing with focus on the first stool of the newborn; Health, UBC, & a Collaborating Scientist at the Cen- neurobehavioral screening tool (NST); medicine tre for Addictions Research of BC wheel student; & a maternal drinking guide Presented “Do men have a role in prevention of Director of Health Protection, Health Assessment Dr. Osman Ipsirogul, Division of Developmental FASD?” & Surveillance, First Nations & Inuit Health Branch, Paediatrics, UBC *Reported there is enough finding that among the Health Canada, Alberta Region Presented “Challenging ‘ADHD’ and ‘Familial ADHD’ strongest indicators of a woman’s “Presented “Health Canada’s role: Supporting First in Patients with FASD” substance use is the substance use of her partner, Nations communities in prevention” *[ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity dis- men continue to be the main influence over a wom- *Stated exact prevalence of FASD in Canada is not order, a medical condition in which a person affect- an’s use of household & community resources known ed has differences in brain development & activity *Also violence against as many as ¼ of girls & women *Estimated 9.1 per 1,000 live births or 1% of the pop- that affects attention, ability to sit still, & self-control. is a risk factor for alcohol dependence & FASD ulation of Canada (2006) Source: http://kidshealth.org>adhd ] *Women & addictions treatment can show the ben- *Estimated 350,000 Canadians living with FASD *Dr. Ipsirogul dealt with sleep disorders & their prev- efit of gender-focused approaches & provide com- *In Alberta, at least 36,000 persons with FASD alence in children & adolescents with FASD munity-based harm reduction services & residential *The social determinants of health are poverty, poor *Referred to a case study on disruptive sleep/wake treatment for improving results education, untreated mental illness, physical health, behaviors *Advised that promoting & supporting women’s employment, language, physical environment, & Indi- *Stated that chronic sleep deprivation affects day safety must be a priority for FASD prevention an residential schools time behavior & that there are medication strategies *Asked “How can we involve men in FASD?” She sug- *Youth abstinence from alcohol & marital status are in FASD treatment gested that this involvement can be done through higher for youth whose parents were living compared *Up to 90% of addictions begin with sleep problems discussions on why they drink, lowering of risk drink- to youth whose parents separated, divorced, or were & pain ing, & lessening of violence deceased *The symptoms of sleep disorders affect 95% of *Mothering centered policy values can also be *Alcohol consumption of First Nations & non-First -Na adults brought into practice. tions shows it is less in First Nations *There is a children’s sleep network that can assist Summary of FASD Prevention Practices Consumption of youth shows 50% have consumed 2 in setting priorities & in dealing with changing priori- *Knowledge of FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disor- or 3 times per month, consumption increases with ties, website: www.childrenssleepnetwork.org; Face- der) age book: www.facebook.com/ChildrensSleepNework *Knowledge of the Effects of Alcohol Consumption *There is no difference in binge drinking by sex Honourable Frank Oberle, Associate Minister of Ser- (no amount is safe when consumed in any stage of *Stated the FNIHB FASD Program deals with preven- vices For Persons with Disabilities pregnancy) tion, awareness, education training, & mapping *Said 36,000 people are affected with FASD in Alber- *De-stigmatization of FASD, there is no shame in ad- *Prevention is also dealt with through the FASD Men- ta mitting the effects toring Program in Alberta *Said that Alberta has a 10 year plan in developing *Resort to safe places and medical/social help for *The Parent-Child Assistance Program (PCAP) involves outcomes & refining strategies through the use of care & treatment a 3 year home visitation of mentoring of the mother basic science, research partnerships, conferences, & on all services expanding Alberta’s knowledge research *Between 2016 – 2011 the average age of first time *Advised that supports & services are important Thank You Eric J. Large First Nation mothers was 21, the average age of First Said there is an estimated thousands of babies Nations fathers was 24 born yearly in Alberta with FASD *In 2007 – 2011First Nation birth rates declined *Said one baby costs $800,000 in services in its life, For your contributions Dr. Albert Chudley, University of Manitoba present- that this will not cure but improve, lessen, & com- ed pensate “The Role of the Canadian FASD Screening Tool Kit in *With a long term strategy, prevention can be dealt the Prevention of FASD” with, & success & lives ensured *Said screening is a public health service where mem- *10 FASD births can be prevented & that prevention bers of a population are asked a question or offered could grow into 10 healthy adults. a test, there are limitations with screening versus di- 77 “Mamawokamatowak” “Mamawokamatowak” Looking After Youth Programs The Youth Matrix Program hosted by the Saddle Lake Healing Lodge Our Needs will graduate 11 participants this year. The Matrix Program is an intensive “Outpatient Treatment Program” and runs Jordan’s Principle in onihcikiskwapowin – Saddle Lake Cree Nation for 12 weeks 3 times a week during the summer months. The Matrix Program is geared to helping community members who want to go in a rehabilitation Back in 2016-2017 the Saddle Lake Health Care Centre’s ness and disabilities; e) Supply families in need with shoe program but do not have to leave the community. Jordan’s Principle proposal was approved. With the tre- and clothing costs; and f) Train 15 Educational/Teaching The Youth Matrix Program is run by Shanwnee Makokis, who incorporates cul- mendous support of Wahkohtowin, Post-Secondary, Edu- Assistance through Portage College (partnering with Sad- tural teachings into everything the Matrix programs offers, they smudge, pray cation, Employment and Training, the Boys and Girls Club dle Lake Education Authority (SLEA)). This year alone the and have frequent sharing circles. The outpatient intensive programs cover an and Chief and Council, the Saddle Lake proposal aimed to Jordan’s Principle team has been able to help over 100 in- immense amount of topics from coping skills, addiction, mental illness, social meet the needs of the people regardless of where they dividuals, organized over 25 activities and trained over 15 issues in the local community, and provides a safe place for youth to support live. The term ‘Jordan’s Principle’ derives from a young Educational/Teaching Assistants. Jordan’s Principle is an youth. Indigenous child, 5-year old Jordan River Anderson of issue of equity and accessibility for First Nations. Its pur- Shawnee would like to encourage parents to come out and join the youth in the Norway House Cree Nation in Treaty No. 5 territory. Jor- pose goes beyond health, education and child and family program. She believes that every little bit helps. dan suffered from complex medical needs, tragically died needs. The intention is to utilize this funding to develop in the hospital, away from his community. All the while, a cross sectoral initiative that is rooted in collaboration the Manitoba and Federal government argued over who and cooperation. The next phase of Jordan’s Principle is should pay for his home care. This led to the 2016 Cana- to continue fighting for sustainable funding and equity for dian Human Rights Tribunal decision that ruled that juris- all members of onihcikiskwapowin no matter where they dictional disputes over payment should not delay, disrupt reside – which is the vision under Treaty implementation. or deny services and programs for First Nation children This initiative has already begun the process of improv- (regardless of where they reside – on/off reserve). Over ing program and services driven by nehiyawak culture the course of the human rights tribunal oversight, three and language. onihcikiskwapowin goals include utilizing separate non-compliance motions lead to the tribunal the nehiyaw and western knowledge to create a model demanding that the Federal government reduce the gaps of care that produces healthier individuals and a healthier in services and programs for First Nations children. Upon Nation. Our next stages will be to create a comprehensive receiving new funding to support programs and services, mental health plan, support for daycare services, continue onihcikiskwapowin Saddle Lake Cree Nation (SLCN), knew to decrease stigma associated with mental health and dis- the 0 to 18 population was too narrow a definition that abilities and partner with the Eagle Healing Lodge to link would not close the gap between First Nations and non- seniors with families and young people. Further to this, First Nation’s populations. As such, onihcikiskwapowin SLHCC is working with SLEA to advocate and secure Ed- expanded the federal scope of Jordan’s Principle with a ucational Assistants for children who require one-on-one two-pronged approach, that enhanced and improved: 1) care and strengthening sports programs to promote more family and community supports and 2) child-focused pro- inclusivity. All these activities and programs are based on grams and services. The two-pronged approach is embed- the input of the community, from the 2016-17 Disabilities ded within the four quadrants of wellbeing, guiding and Survey to the ongoing data collection for Long Term Plan- providing onihcikiskwapowin member’s opportunities to ning, Wellness Survey (2018) and the feedback received care for their own spiritual, mental, emotional and physi- by the SLHCC staff. We will continue to look to the com- cal health. The initiative seeks to improve access and qual- munity to help provide guidance on their health priorities ity of wellness. As part of the efforts, funding was used to and what wellbeing means for our people. Upholding the hire four new staff, Michelle Cardinal, Terry Cardinal, Krista Medicine Chest Clause and Treaty rights as envisioned by Makokis and Genevieve Jackson who have been working our forebearers not only guides the work being done but to: a) Increase visitation from health professionals (ex. oc- will guide the processes as each evolves. This includes cupational therapists, speech and language, sign language fighting for the health and wellbeing of this generation, so and FASD); b) Organize activities rooted in nehiyawak cul- it can care for the generations of the future. We humbly ture and language (ex. cultural teachings and semi-regular thank all those who have worked to promote and strength- sharing circles); c) Organize regular family and communi- en the Jordan’s Principle initiative in onihcikiskwapowin. ty events (ex. movie nights, art/paint nights and yoga); d) The work has only begun and we are always looking to Decrease stigma and judgement related to mental well- improve the health and wellbeing of onihcikiskwapowin.

88 “Mamawokamatowak” “Mamawokamatowak” Looking After Youth Programs The Youth Matrix Program hosted by the Saddle Lake Healing Lodge Our Needs will graduate 11 participants this year. The Matrix Program is an intensive “Outpatient Treatment Program” and runs Jordan’s Principle in onihcikiskwapowin – Saddle Lake Cree Nation for 12 weeks 3 times a week during the summer months. The Matrix Program is geared to helping community members who want to go in a rehabilitation ness and disabilities; e) Supply families in need with shoe program but do not have to leave the community. and clothing costs; and f) Train 15 Educational/Teaching The Youth Matrix Program is run by Shanwnee Makokis, who incorporates cul- Assistance through Portage College (partnering with Sad- tural teachings into everything the Matrix programs offers, they smudge, pray dle Lake Education Authority (SLEA)). This year alone the and have frequent sharing circles. The outpatient intensive programs cover an Jordan’s Principle team has been able to help over 100 in- immense amount of topics from coping skills, addiction, mental illness, social dividuals, organized over 25 activities and trained over 15 issues in the local community, and provides a safe place for youth to support Educational/Teaching Assistants. Jordan’s Principle is an youth. issue of equity and accessibility for First Nations. Its pur- Shawnee would like to encourage parents to come out and join the youth in the pose goes beyond health, education and child and family program. She believes that every little bit helps. needs. The intention is to utilize this funding to develop a cross sectoral initiative that is rooted in collaboration and cooperation. The next phase of Jordan’s Principle is to continue fighting for sustainable funding and equity for all members of onihcikiskwapowin no matter where they reside – which is the vision under Treaty implementation. This initiative has already begun the process of improving program and services driven by nehiyawak culture and language. onihcikiskwapowin goals include utilizing the nehiyaw and western knowledge to create a model of care that produces healthier individuals and a healthier Nation. Our next stages will be to create a comprehensive mental health plan, support for daycare services, continue to decrease stigma associated with mental health and disabilities and partner with the Eagle Healing Lodge to link seniors with families and young people. Further to this, SLHCC is working with SLEA to advocate and secure Ed- ucational Assistants for children who require one-on-one care and strengthening sports programs to promote more The Youth Community Helpers inclusivity. All these activities and programs are based on Introducing the Youth Community Helpers lead by Lana Cardinal of the Eagle Nest the input of the community, from the 2016-17 Disabilities Healing Lodge. Lana exclaims, “We are the only First Nation community to have the Survey to the ongoing data collection for Long Term Plan- ning, Wellness Survey (2018) and the feedback received program. We teach role modeling through community work. The youth go out and by the SLHCC staff. We will continue to look to the com- help at whatever they can in the community.” munity to help provide guidance on their health priorities Over the course of the program, the youth participated in conferences and sober and what wellbeing means for our people. Upholding the outings. They also fund raise for issues they believe in, such as raising money for Medicine Chest Clause and Treaty rights as envisioned by winter jackets and gear for the local homeless. our forebearers not only guides the work being done but The youth have helped in the community, with funerals and other events. They have will guide the processes as each evolves. This includes made lifelong friends and together they strengthen Saddle Lakes community spirit. fighting for the health and wellbeing of this generation, so Great Job everyone, and we can not wait to see what comes next. it can care for the generations of the future. We humbly thank all those who have worked to promote and strength- Both programs would like to “thank Alex Whiskeyjack, Bird Quinn, Olive Half and en the Jordan’s Principle initiative in onihcikiskwapowin. Terry Cardinal, and to all the Parents for trusting us working with your kids.” The work has only begun and we are always looking to improve the health and wellbeing of onihcikiskwapowin. Saddle Lake Eagle Nest Healing Lodge Phone: (780) 726-3661 Toll Free: 1-866-726-3660 99 “Mamawokamatowak” “Mamawokamatowak” Honoring Our

Mothers The Saddle Lake Pharmacy is open 9:00AM to 5:00PM Monday to Friday Phone - (780) 726-3310

The Saddle Lake Pharmacy held a fun filled “Customer Appreciation Day” August 28, 2019. Staff grilled up hamburger FASD Awareness Day and hot dogs for customers and community members. Pharmacist Jinky Manipon would like to thank Saddle Lake and “The 9th minute of the 9th hour of the 9th day of the 9th month represents the 9 months of pregnancy, and the community for the support and patronage. It was a great day to laugh and meet the wonderful hardworking staff the opportunity to raise international awareness and understanding of FASD. We wish to honor individuals, at the Pharmacy. families, and communities affected by FASD and boost consciousness about the dangers of drinking during pregnancy” Sept 9, 2019, at 9:09, The youth center had a moment of silence to honor our mothers. After the pipe ceremony and the opening prayer by local Elder Alphonse Delver, the event kicked off with guest speakers. The presentations covered many topics on FASD. The presentations were done by Lakeland FASD, community members, individuals living with FASD and caregivers. It was an informative FASD awareness Day. The day ended with a mini pow wow and presentation done by the Onion Lake Youth Pow Wow group and local youth pow wow dancers.

10 “Mamawokamatowak” “Mamawokamatowak” Pharmacy Appreciation D ay

The Saddle Lake Pharmacy is open 9:00AM to 5:00PM Monday to Friday Phone - (780) 726-3310

11 “Mamawokamatowak” HEALTH CENTRE GRAND OPENING

Mission/Vision:

The Saddle Lake Coordinated Home Care Program is a comprehensive integrated and coordinated home Friday August 9, 2019 Saddle Lake Health Care Centre Prizes were given to community members who at- care and assisted living program to assist Saddle Lake held it’s Grand Opening, with Master of Ceremonies tended, and staff presented gifts to all who were part First Nation peoples to achieve and maintain health, Sam Cardinal. Following the pipe ceremony newly of the project. well-being and personal independence in the commu- elected Chief Eric Shirt spoke of importance of the Theresa Cardinal, Office Manager, did say in her nity utilizing a holistic approach. Health Department and it’s key role in our commu- speech after thanking everyone who helped, “How Essential Services nity. important it is to work together, because look at Home Care Nursing services and; The basic level of Other speakers included, Dr. Parminder Thiara, FNI- what we can achieve.” service that is provided to the community of Saddle HB and Evelyn Johnston, the Saddle Lake Health Di- Fran Ward, Renovation/Expansion Project Coordina- Lake includes: rector. tor, also spoke of the tremendous amount of work in- As Darcy McGilvery’s drum group sang an honor volved and how amazing it was to see everyone pull Detailed client assessments, completed by Health Pro- song, the ribbon was cut, and thus the doors were it off with such grace. fessionals: open to the public, to showcase the newly renovated The day ended with a mini round dance and pow and extended Saddle Lake Health Centre. wow demonstration. To gather information on the clients need for service, their support networks, and the appropriateness of services available.

Case management process that provide: • Ongoing evaluation of appropriateness, effectiveness, and eligibility for care

Professional Nursing services, encompassing: • Direct personal care to eligible clients • Operational process for Records management, data collection, quality programming • Access to required medical equipment, medical supplies through On-Site Occupational Therapist

Supportive Services (Assisted Living): Once the essential service elements are met, the Home Care program may decide if any of the following sup- 12 “Mamawokamatowak” “Mamawokamatowak” SLCN HEALTH CENTRE GRAND OPENING Coordinated Home Care Provided for all Saddle Lake Members who require assistance.

Mission/Vision: portive service elements may be given: • Household management The Saddle Lake Coordinated Home Care Program is • Home making a comprehensive integrated and coordinated home • Laundry • Transportation Prizes were given to community members who at- care and assisted living program to assist Saddle Lake • Minor Home adaptations for client safety tended, and staff presented gifts to all who were part First Nation peoples to achieve and maintain health, • Meals on Wheels of the project. well-being and personal independence in the commu- Theresa Cardinal, Office Manager, did say in her nity utilizing a holistic approach. Eligibility Requirements: speech after thanking everyone who helped, “How Essential Services Before you can receive Home Care nursing services, you important it is to work together, because look at Home Care Nursing services and; The basic level of should: what we can achieve.” service that is provided to the community of Saddle • Be a resident of the Saddle Lake Cree Nation Fran Ward, Renovation/Expansion Project Coordina- Lake includes: • Be under the care of a doctor tor, also spoke of the tremendous amount of work in- volved and how amazing it was to see everyone pull Detailed client assessments, completed by Health Pro- Discharged from Hospital early and require care, such it off with such grace. fessionals: as: The day ended with a mini round dance and pow • Wound care wow demonstration. To gather information on the clients need for service, • Medication their support networks, and the appropriateness of • Order Medical Equipment services available. Assisted Living: Case management process that provide: • Clients are assessed before supportive services are • Ongoing evaluation of appropriateness, effective- initiated. ness, and eligibility for care • Active Home Care clients only without family support will be assisted until stable. Professional Nursing services, encompassing: • Aids to Daily Living is our PRIORITY • Direct personal care to eligible clients • Operational process for Records management, data P.O. Box 189 collection, quality programming Saddle Lake, AB • Access to required medical equipment, medical T0A 3T0 supplies through On-Site Occupational Therapist Phone: (780) 726 – 2774 Supportive Services (Assisted Living): Fax: (780) 726 – 2776 Once the essential service elements are met, the Home Toll Free: 1 – 888 – 600 – 6867 Care program may decide if any of the following sup- Contact: Pamela Quinney ([email protected]) 13 “Mamawokamatowak” “Mamawokamatowak”

Chief and Council Meet with RDG

Our leadership have met with the Acting RDG and then antee that funding will continue after the 10 years. later met with a representative of the RDG. It was ob- vious that our leadership were not impressed as they The leadership plan on pursuing another meeting with had expected the RDG. Nevertheless, our leadership the new RDG in the near future. took the opportunities to express many challenges that we face here in Saddle Lake. The main message to the representatives was that we are pursuing “Treaty Based Agreements” and that we reject in its entirety the current “10 year Agreements”, as there is no guar- Roads Crew Awards

What is a Smoke Eater? A smoke eater is a term utilized in the Wildfire Forestry Industry to October 10, 2019, SL Public Works, Peyasew Oilfield name forest fire personnel. These Services, Dechant Construction and Urban Systems said personnel are a highly trained held an Awards and Appreciation Barbecue. The proj- and certified group of men and ect was completed incident free, under budget and women that protect our natural ahead of schedule. resources and are respectful of Safety Award - Sonny Benson the communities we perform op- Top Operator - Dean Favel erations in. Top Trucker - Chris Wood Top Laborer - Teddy Cardinal Where do we work? The Great Outdoors.

When do we work? Work is seasonal and dependent 14 on weather conditions. Historical- “Mamawokamatowak” “Mamawokamatowak” SL SMOKEEATERS October 10, 2019

APPRECIATION BARBECUE antee that funding will continue after the 10 years. The leadership plan on pursuing another meeting with the new RDG in the near future.

What is a Smoke Eater? ly, work months range from March Industry leader with many years A smoke eater is a term utilized in to October. of experience in Forestry Wild- the Wildfire Forestry Industry to fire Suppression and Firefight- name forest fire personnel. These Why do we do what we do? ing Equipment. The company is said personnel are a highly trained To protect our natural resources, comprised of certified and highly and certified group of men and to provide for their families, and trained personnel specializing in women that protect our natural to challenge their physical and Wildfire Suppression, Contain- resources and are respectful of mental being. ment, and Extinguishment. Future the communities we perform op- Operations to include Disaster Re- erations in. If you enjoy pushing yourself to covery and Firefighting Equipment your limits and beyond, then look Re-certification. Where do we work? at joining up to be a wildland fire- The Great Outdoors. fighter, and perhaps one day you Phone: (780) 726-3534 can call yourself a SmokeEater. Toll Free: 1-866-726-3536 When do we work? Email: [email protected] Web: www.slsmokeeaters.com Work is seasonal and dependent Who are we? on weather conditions. Historical- Saddle Lake Smoke Eaters is an 15 “Mamawokamatowak” “Mamawokamatowak” Elders Gathering On September 3 & 4. 2019 the • Have Chief and Council in of the community/ • Traditional values/prac- – evaluations for all Elders of Saddle Lake were attendance • All band services to be tice eg. Ceremony programs invited to meet and discuss • Cell service for emergen- cut off to all drug dealers • What are we doing to 12. Roads – ongoing main- what challenges we have and cies . combat loss of treaty tenance – seniors rate/ to clarify amongst themselves • More support for after Number 2 • C&C administration trav- discount other items. On Day 1 Elders care (Detox and rehab/ Housing/Renovations eling a lot 13. Health – home visits to where given opportunities treatment) • Shortage • Cutbacks in Health, Edu- seniors to explain medi- to express challenges. They • More activities for youth • Overcrowded cation, Child care cations – information ses- then broke into groups and • Transportation for youth • In need of repairs sions in the community brainstormed Saddle Lakes involvement • Band housing units Group 2 – Niso 14. Safety – horses on the challenges. • Support for schools/at- should not be rented Issues: road causing safety issues tendance • Moldy houses 1. Drugs/Addictions for motorists – dogs On Day 2 they reviewed their • Work on our members • Band houses not oc- 2. Extended care facility for (strays) brainstorming lists and put (membership) – scrap Bill cupied by owner, they seniors 15. Crime – B& E’s – Missing them in order of importance C31 should be given to some- 3. Home care for the resi- and Murdered Men and to them. Afterwards Home • Know our rights and trea- one or families who need dents who live at senior Women – setting up a Care staff came in to present ties (teach young) housing units – unfair treatment Crime Watch or Citizen’s the services they offer. They • Our educated people • What happened to the – different rents – person Patrol continued with discussions returning to community utilities for Elders being who runs the units call 16. Disaster Plan for the and once again broke into to work paid for by the band? herself the landlord, does community ie. tornados groups to identify what they • Elder Abuse – loss of re- • Senior drop in center not listen and is disre- – how will people be thought was the difference spect and abandonment • Senior user fee (where do spectful to the seniors alerted between a senior and an elder • More professionalism the funds going?) 4. People renting out their 17. Numbering of houses at and what defines an elder. from SLCN Band Employ- • Elder abuse homes – band housing the driveway foe emer- Following is the brainstorming ees • Accountability for wrong- 5. Why are there more than gency purposes – police, that was developed by our ful actions one senior’s groups? ambulance, fire, emer- Elders. UNITY -WORKING TOGETHER 6. A lot of issues still gency contact # for the AS A COMMUNITY Number 3 stemming from residen- community COMMUNICATION For the youth tial schools -seniors still 18. Employment Programs Group 1 – Peyak • Transportation for activ- carrying anger – wellness What are the issues and Number 1 ities – to keep the m out programs for seniors Order of Importance problems in Saddle Lake? Drugs/Addictions, Crime, of trouble 7. Housing – lack of services 1. Home Care for seniors (listed in order of impor- Vandalism, Elder Abuse, • Education for seniors – user fee, 2. Employment Programs tance) Spousal Abuse, Child Abuse • Language (Cree) shortage of housing 3. Crime • Drugs/Addictions • Detox center (after care) • Youth group – express 8. Tobacco levi – where 4. Health (treaty) • Roads – quads using back • Quad runners, drug de- their concerns does the money go (fuel roads liveries cause problems, • Loss of identity – teach and tobacco tax) – sup- • Housing shortage/crowd- property damage, cut them they matter, they posed to go to seniors Group 3 – Nisto ed/seniors fences are important, future 9. Where did the money 1. Get rid of the Drugs!! • No water delivery, no • Crime activity • Random drug test for leaders go that each candidate garbage disposal, no es- • Loss of language SLCN Band Employees • Acknowledge their words had to pay to run in the sentials to anyone selling • Loss of identity • Drug dealers should be - Cree, not laugh at them elections? drugs • Communication with oth- banned from the commu- when they try to speak 10. Are the band audits avail- • Thieves!! Can’t leave the er departments – RCMP, nity. Chief and Council to the language. able to the public? Band home radio station have community to have meeting minutes? • Band meetings to be the authority to remove. Membership 11. Staff accountability – how respectful (peaceful) RCMP to escort them out • Bill C31 are band staff assessed

16 “Mamawokamatowak” “Mamawokamatowak” Elders Gathering • Traditional values/prac- – evaluations for all • Ban the quads knowledge and love, and who feel safe in their homes tice eg. Ceremony programs • Cisterns should be has permission to disclose • Housing – overcrowded • What are we doing to 12. Roads – ongoing main- cleaned knowledge and beliefs. housing, user fees combat loss of treaty tenance – seniors rate/ • Lids for garbage contain- • Home Care for seniors • C&C administration trav- 5. WE NEED TO START WORK- discount ers • Roads eling a lot ING TOGETHER 13. Health – home visits to • Leadership (community • Elder should be working • Cutbacks in Health, Edu- seniors to explain medi- involvement) as one cation, Child care What is an Elder (as defined cations – information ses- 2. What can we do for the by the Seniors) sions in the community Younger Generation? 3 groups in Saddle Lake • Role Model Group 2 – Niso 14. Safety – horses on the • Involve them in all our 1. Advisory (political, trea- • Knowledge Keeper Issues: road causing safety issues community functions ties, elections, bill C-31) • Educator 1. Drugs/Addictions for motorists – dogs • Sponsor a youth (teach- 2. Health Centre (holistic • Wise/approachable 2. Extended care facility for (strays) ing them life values) well-being – being an old- • Wisdom and understand- seniors 15. Crime – B& E’s – Missing • Elders should be the er person, Elder abuse) ing 3. Home care for the resi- and Murdered Men and teachers, role models, 3. Grandmother’s Guide • Encouraging dents who live at senior Women – setting up a etc… (families, youth, hospi- • Cree language speaker units – unfair treatment Crime Watch or Citizen’s • Grandmother’s Guide tals, schools) • Advisor – different rents – person Patrol • Youth need a Recreation • Protector who runs the units call 16. Disaster Plan for the Centre • Experienced life herself the landlord, does DEFINE THE ROLE OF THE community ie. tornados • We can speak for them • Natural Law Keeper not listen and is disre- ELDERS – WHAT IS THE ROLE – how will people be • Offers prayers for people spectful to the seniors 3. Community Hunt OF THE ELDERS alerted • Distribute meat to all • RESPECT • Trustworthy person 4. People renting out their 17. Numbering of houses at community members • WE NEED TO RECOGNIZE • Non-judgmental homes – band housing the driveway foe emer- EACH OTHER • Keeper of traditions 5. Why are there more than 4. What’s the difference be- gency purposes – police, • UNITY • Respectful one senior’s groups? tween a Senior and an Elder ambulance, fire, emer- • Wahkotowin 6. A lot of issues still Day 2 gency contact # for the When you talk about Elders Issues/Problems – order of • Knowledge about history stemming from residen- community there are different kinds: importance • Child rearing – teach our tial schools -seniors still 18. Employment Programs – Cere- • Drugs – we need to do children carrying anger – wellness • Traditional Elder mony Healer something to address • Disciplinarian – in the programs for seniors Order of Importance – Church, this issue as a community traditional gentle way 7. Housing – lack of services • Spiritual Elder 1. Home Care for seniors prayer working together • Humble/humility for seniors – user fee, 2. Employment Programs – wanting Suggestions: • Keeper of the home fire shortage of housing • Paper Elder 3. Crime payment • banning drug dealers • Elder men – namesake 8. Tobacco levi – where 4. Health (treaty) from the reserve is God – kisemanitou – does the money go (fuel • Senior is someone 65 and • people need to speak kiseno and tobacco tax) – sup- older (white man way) up even if is members of • Elder women – namesake posed to go to seniors Group 3 – Nisto • Senior Elder is a person their family if fire – iskotew – iskwew 9. Where did the money 1. Get rid of the Drugs!! • No water delivery, no that dyes their hair • elders/seniors need Accepting of children/every- go that each candidate garbage disposal, no es- • Elder is the one with to set an example for one as in adoption had to pay to run in the sentials to anyone selling natural grey hair younger people by Forgiving elections? drugs ** An Aboriginal Elder is talking to their families An example for younger gen- 10. Are the band audits avail- • Thieves!! Can’t leave the someone who has gained • Criminal Activity – com- erations able to the public? Band home recognition as a custodian of munity members need to Truthful meeting minutes? 11. Staff accountability – how are band staff assessed

17 SLCN Health Centre Harvest Fair 2019 “Living Treaty” Orange Shirt Day People all across Canada wear an orange shirt on September 30th to honor the children who survived the In- dian Residential Schools and remember those that didn’t. We wear orange shirts in recognition of the harm the residential school system did to children’s sense of self-esteem and well-being, and as an affirmation of our commitment to ensure that everyone around us matters. Students, staff and community members commemorate Orange Shirt Day. The day started off with a surprise visit with Amazing Race Canada winners, James Makokis and Anthony Johnson. For the video presentation please check out Cree-ative Vision youtube Channel. Search Orange Shirt Day in Saddle Lake 2019. SLCN Health Centre Harvest Fair 2019 “Living Treaty” OrangeEvery Shirt Child Matters Day People all across Canada wear an orange shirt on September 30th to honor the children who survived the In- dian Residential Schools and remember those that didn’t. We wear orange shirts in recognition of the harm the residential school system did to children’s sense of self-esteem and well-being, and as an affirmation of our commitment to ensure that everyone around us matters. Students, staff and community members commemorate Orange Shirt Day. The day started off with a surprise visit with Amazing Race Canada winners, James Makokis and Anthony Johnson. For the video presentation please check out Cree-ative Vision youtube Channel. Search Orange Shirt Day in Saddle Lake 2019. Check out the new website at #Team ahkameyimok saddlelakecreenation.ca

Join our news media page on facebook all you have to do is Congratulations to James Makokis and Anthony Johnson on like the page and winning the Amazing Race Canada. follow find us at Saddle Lake Cree Nation news, events and information