Volume 17 Issue 8 Published monthly by the Union of Indians - Anishinabek Nation Single Copy: $2.00 November 2005 IN THE Native agenda ‘transcends politics’ and Aboriginal lead- multi-lateral support for our solutions- There will be a federal election in to emerge with separate, 10-year plans NEWS ers from across are concerned based plan is unprecedented in the next six months, Campbell said, for Metis, and First Nations, No food vendors that federal election fever may detract Canadian history.” Meanwhile, B.C. and while that creates some uncertain- Campbell said. from discussions of a comprehensive Premier Gordon Campbell, the host of ty, government and aboriginal leaders “Our goal coming out of the con- TORONTO – Organizers of ten-year plan to address Native pover- the Kelowna summit, says there’s con- must move forward with their plans. ference will not be to have a general the Canadian Aboriginal Festival have left traditional ty. sensus among premiers of every polit- “I think that political parties across comment that ‘We’d like to do some- food vendors with a bad taste in Anishinabek Grand Council Chief ical stripe that it’s time to close the gap the country will embrace that,” the thing,’” he said. “We want specifics in their mouth. The vendors have John Beaucage was urging all four fed- between aboriginal and non-aboriginal Liberal premier told reporters as spec- each of the categories.” received notice that they are no eral political leaders “to reconsider Canadians. ulation continued that Martin’s govern- There is also support for an annual longer allowed to participate at any decision that would ... sideline our Campbell, who was headed for ment could fall in the coming weeks, review to track progress, he added, the Nov. 25-27 event staged in pro-active health and social agenda” to to discuss aboriginal issues possibly derailing the two-day First since much work remains to be done Toronto’s SkyDome. A letter be discussed at a Nov. 24-25 First with Prime Minister , said Ministers Meeting in Kelowna, B.C. across the country to help Natives. sent to the vendors cites the Ministers Meeting in Kelowana, B.C. the major challenges facing Native “I believe this transcends the gen- Seventy per cent of First Nations major reason being stricter “The First Ministers Meeting is the people transcend politics and changes eral politics of the country,” said students on-reserve will never com- health regulations. most significant opportunity that First must go ahead despite the recent polit- Campbell, on the last leg of a cross- plete high school, according to the As a result, the Festival will Nations have to raise these issues at ical upheaval in Ottawa. country tour that included meetings Assembly of First Nations, and the be host to two professional such a high level,” Beaucage said. “Governments will change – that with provincial and territorial leaders. aboriginal unemployment rate is dou- Aboriginal caterers offering This fundamental opportunity and happens,” the B.C. premier said. Provincial and Native leaders want ble the rate of non-aboriginals. their food restaurant-style or buffet style. Indian mascots out Kash INDIANAPOLIS (AP) – Carthage College teams in Wisconsin will drop the name proves “Redmen” and use of Indian mascots and logos, to comply with the NCAA’s new policy water regarding American Indian mas- cots. Keeper a candidate point NORWAY HOUSE, Man. (CP) – Tina Keeper, a member NIPISSING FN – The emer- of Norway House Cree Nation gency evacuation of Kashechewan and star of the popular televi- First Nation demonstrates the sion series North of 60, will be a need for First Nations citizens to Liberal candidate for a northern be more involved in government riding in the next fed- decisions directly affecting them, eral election. says Grand Council Chief John Diamonds held Cree Beaucage. TORONTO (CP) – De Leaving Kashechewan “We are extending support to Beers has signed a deal promis- Canadian Rangers William Nakogee and Irving Wesley and Junior Canadian Ranger Chelsea Goodwin, 14, our Mushkegowuk cousins during ing $10 million in benefits to the load evacuees’ baggage at Kashechewan airport. Over half of the 1900 residents of the Cree community on the this trying time,” said Grand Attiwapsikat Cree First Nation west coast of James Bay were evacuated to Sudbury, Ottawa, Peterborough, and Cochrane after the commu- Council Chief John Beaucage, in the development of Ontario’s nity’s supply of drinking water was found to contain E-coli bacteria. The Rangers are aboriginal reserves of the “and one of the best ways we can first diamond mine. Canadian Armed Forces. More on page 2. – Photo by Sgt. Peter Moon, Canadian Rangers do that is to continue to challenge the government of Canada to work Vine Deloria passes with us to seek comprehensive DENVER – Author and solutions to such life-threatening activist Vine Deloria, Jr. passed ‘Hung out to dry by INAC’ situations.” over to join his ancestors By Rick Garrick to federal jurisdiction is dealt with by the implementation November 13, 2005. During a special assembly of He wrote Custer Died for THUNDER BAY – Fort William First Nation’s foray of a Site Specific Risk Assessment and an Environmental First Nation Chiefs in Regina, Your Sins in 1969, the first of his into the sawmill leasing business is being derailed by the Priority and Action Plan designed by INAC in 2003, two Beaucage was asked to participate scores of books and scholarly federal bureaucracy. years after construction on the Bowater sawmill in a comprehensive national articles in confronting the “We worked hard to get the Bowater project began. review of First Nations drinking racism of U.S law and policya- done right, and we succeeded,” said Fort Shortly after the sawmill was completed, the water across Canada. The gainst Indian peoples. William First Nation Chief Peter Collins. “Our tax assessment on the property increased and the Anishinabek leader, who holds the local partners have been professional, and a City of Thunder Bay began efforts to collect AFN Ontario portfolio for Capital pleasure to do business with. But bureaucrats those taxes from the band, eventually culminat- and Infrastructure, called for strin- from Indian and Northern Affairs Canada have ing in a court battle this past January which the gent national standards for drink- Anishinabek Writers hung us out to dry.” city won, giving them the right to seize ing water on First Nations. “The Fort William First Nation got involved in the Bowater’s $104,000 monthly lease payments to Bowater sawmill project in 2001, two years after the band for rental of the sawmill building and new First Nations’ standards Chief Peter would exceed the minimum regaining about 1,100 acres of the Railway Collins property. The Royal Bank, the sawmill building Taking Lands expropriated by the federal gov- mortgage holder, continues to draw its mortgage provincial standards for clean ernment from the band in 1905, when they were ensured payments from the band’s operating funds even though the drinking water,” he said. by then Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs Canada band no longer receives the monthly lease payments, Just last month, Beaucage pub- Bob Nault that he would “expedite” the ATR (Additions to which is causing the band financial problems. licly urged federal officials to Reserve) process for the land. “Our membership feels frustrated,” Collins said. “It’s a heed warnings in a report by “Minister Nault promised the sawmill site would be tough situation to be in.” Canada’s Commissioner of the Put your community on the map returned to reserve status long before any property taxes Gordon Manuel, director of government affairs at Environment and Sustainable with stories and photos. Contact: Maurice Switzer, Editor would be payable,” Collins said. “That was the underlying Bowater’s corporate office in South Carolina, has Development which expressed Telephone: (705) 497-9127 economic premise that all parties proceeded on.” expressed Bowater’s concern about the situation to the fed- concern about the lack of laws and Toll-Free: 1-877-702-5200 But the federal government’s Justice Department eral government and wants to see the situation resolved. “If regulations governing the provi- E-mail: [email protected] stalled the ATR process until a Regulatory Gap in environ- it doesn’t, Bowater is at risk,” Manuel said. sion of drinking water to First mental legislation as the land is transferred from provincial More on page 16. Nations residents. Page 2 Anishinabek News November 2005 Kashechewan Gull Bay evacuees have spent two years in Thunder Bay hotels GULL BAY FN (CP) – Hundreds of kilometres dozens of cases of respiratory ailments ranging from from the media scrutiny, political pressure and emer- mild bronchitis to severe asthma, and it’s only going gency evacuations of Kashechewan, residents of this to get worse, said Elaine Milne, the reserve’s health Julian Fantino, second from right, Ontario's commissioner of emergency tiny reserve live in mould-infested manager. management services, thanks Canadian Rangers armed Forces reservists for the work they are doing during the evacuation crisis at Kashechewan homes, bleach the tap water clean with Javex and “You have mould sitting around in the edges and First Nation. – Photo by Sgt. Peter Moon, Canadian Rangers wonder when anyone will come to the corners . . . you breathe it in, in it their rescue. goes and down into your lungs,” said Nearly 40 residents of the Gull Milne, adding that dozens of homes Anishinabek launch fund Bay reserve have spent the last two need to be repaired or replaced for the NIPISSING FN – The Anishinabek Nation Credit Union is assisting years crammed inside hotel rooms sake of the community’s health. fund-raising efforts to support evacuated residents of Kashechewan First 180 kilometres to the south in The small, isolated First Nation Nation. The Union of Ontario Indians co-ordinated the establishment of Thunder Bay, ever since the mould community – with 1,000 official the relief fund, to be made available for disbursement as needed by lead- and fungus that’s rampant on their members, though more than half have ership of the James Bay Cree community, half of whose members were reserve chased them from their homes moved away for jobs and better shel- evacuated to Sudbury, Ottawa, Peterborough, and Cochrane because in November 2003. ter – also faces ongoing concerns their community water supply was unsafe. Chief Wilfred King says that stop- about water quality. Donations can be made directly at the head office of the Anishinabek gap measure has cost the federal gov- Inside a decrepit treatment plant Nation Credit Union or mailed to: Anishinabek Nation Credit Union, 7 ernment $2 million. And as what King the size of a small suburban garage sit St., Garden River, Ontario P6A 6Z8. For inter-credit union courier donations, the transit number of the credit union is 21442. For calls a “powder keg” of health and Chief Wilfred King boxes of five-litre bottles of Javex infrastructure problems continues to bleach. Nearly 50 bottles are poured further information contact Allan Moffatt or Jeannine Poulin at (705) 942-7655. worsen, the people of Gull Bay can’t into the plant’s water every week to help but look some 900 kilometres across the ensure there’s no bacteria piped into the reserve’s 100 province to Kashechewan, where E. coli in the drink- homes. Candlelight supporters ing water touched off an emergency evacuation that Reserve officials blame two deaths in 2000 on E. OTTAWA – Supporters from the Ottawa area took just weeks to complete. The province has said it coli contamination, although that’s never been con- gathered together for a candlelight vigil on expects Kashechewan residents can return home by firmed. A $5-million replacement water plant built Parliament Hill on the evening of Oct. 26 to show winter. two years ago with federal money sits dormant due to their concern over the James Bay community of “It’s basic human rights that we’re asking for here bureaucratic confusion between Ottawa, the province Kashechewan First Nation. The vigil was organized Gordon Huey – no more than that,” King said of his own reserve, and the reserve over the permits necessary to operate by Kashechewan community member Gordon Huey, which he considers a poster child for the “Third it. who said he wanted “to show the people of my home town that we care World conditions” that aboriginal communities across Since he became chief two and a half years ago, about their situation.” Canada are dealing with daily. King said Ottawa has wasted $10 million on housing Charlie Angus, MP Timmins told the 100 participants “The whole Mould contamination at Gull Bay has led to and water projects that went nowhere. country is watching tonight and the whole country is ashamed.”

IA program Ipperwash Inquiries

10.25” x 7” November 2005 Anishinabek News Page 3 Ogitchidaa / Warriors Native warriors have long fought on Canada’s side By Maurice Switzer I also believe that many young other community member who wore raise an army of Canadian citizens, or-leave-it-offer to make amends for People often ask why, despite Aboriginal men and women in a Canadian military uniform. The Indians were volunteering to join up. this shameful discrimination against stolen land, and broken treaties, and Canada – like poor people every- story was the same across the breadth Most did their jobs like regular Canada’s staunchest defenders. The residential schools, Native peoples where – have of the country. Indians volunteered in soldiers, but a few, like Wasauksing’s 800 eligible Native veterans – and have always been in the front lines of often found that higher per capita numbers than any Frances Pegahmagahbow – a sniper about 1,000 surviving spouses – those fighting to preserve Canadian wearing their other identifiable group. There were who recorded 300 “kills” – and were offered a mere $20,000 to settle freedom. country’s mili- 22 adult males on the Scugog reserve Brokenhead’s Tommy Prince – the Canada’s 50-year-old debt, a dis- For one thing, First Nations have tary uniform is in 1914 – every single man volun- most decorated soldier to wear a graceful attempt to buy them off in a long history of demonstrating the only job secu- teered for military duty. Canadian military uniform – really their fading years. respect for the Crown. Most of our rity available to The truly remarkable thing about distinguished themselves. There’s a First Nation tradition treaties were made with the British them. Whatever the 5,000 Native soldiers who Heroes or not, when they that our every action is to be consid- Crown before there was a Canada, the reason, defended the Crown and Canadian returned home, Native Warriors ered in terms of how it will effect Maurice Switzer and now Canada is obliged by its Native military flag – the “Forgotten Warriors” of quickly became mere Indians again those who follow us seven genera- Constitution to honour them. service in Canada is a remarkable Michael Doxtater’s powerful at the hands of government agents. tions later. Most of us do not weigh Going back to the time of tradition. National Film Board documentary – Indians who lived on reserve were our conduct so carefully. But for Tecumseh and the War of 1812, right My great uncle, Robert Franklin is that Status Indians were exempt short-changed of about $3,500 in some it comes naturally. up to the present day, Indians have Sr., was one of 38 men from from military service. (They were resettlement benefits offered most That’s why we stand up and take fought to defend the British, and now Alderville who volunteered for duty. also not entitled to vote, but that’s Canadian soldiers, including those off our hats when our veterans enter Canadian Crown. I believe our war- That’s 38 out of 63 adult males in the another story.) At the same time the who had been forced into service. It the pow-wow circle. riors have done so in hopes that community at the time. Their names government was resorting to con- took a half century of lobbying by And that’s why we will fight for Canada will one day live up to the are carved into Alderville’s granite scription – compulsory military serv- aboriginal veterans for the federal our as long as the grass promises made in our treaties. cenotaph, along with those of every ice, like the American “draft” – to government to finally table a take-it- grows and the rivers flow. Nipissing veteran laid phone 1891-1952 lines under heavy enemy fire Young and idealistic, Francis Pegahmagabow of of France and Belgium he dis- the Parry Island (now Wasauksing First tinguished himself by winning By Perry McLeod-Shabogesic heavy casualties. They spent their Nation), near , joined the Canadian three decorations for bravery, NIPISSING FN – The road has days running and repairing phone Expeditionary Force in World War I. On the battlefields more than any other Canadian been long and hard for 92-year-old lines under heavy German aboriginal soldier. veteran Tom Couchie and wife shelling. At night they slept under Treated as an equal among Fran. A private their own artillery pieces while his white comrades, he was in man, he is also German positions were blasted. To for a rude awakening when he very humble this day Tom and many other sol- returned home to the Reserve Francis about his time diers who tried to sleep under those after the war and discovered Pegahmagabow in the military conditions have suffered major that attitudes, particular that of and the contri- hearing losses along with other the tyrannical Department of Indian Affairs, hadn't butions he and injuries. changed at all. He was still an Indian, and treated as a others have The enemy wasn’t the only second-class citizen. made to the Tom Couchie thing Tom and his company need- For the rest of his life, Pegahmagabow championed freedom of this ed to watch out for. Friendly fire the cause of native rights, being one of the early country. To Tom it was just a job was another danger. Often, as the activists in this long, exhausting battle to achieve the he had to do. battle raged on, U.S. and British right of aboriginal peoples to control their own destiny. Born in 1913 at Duchesnay Air forces would bomb areas occu- Adrian Hayes’s well-researched, illustrated biogra- Falls, Tom was 26 when he enlist- pied by Allied troops. Many on phy of Pegahmagabow will help ensure this long-for- ed in the army. He was already both sides paid war’s ultimate gotten hero receives the recognition he deserves for his married to Fran at this time and price. dedication on the battlefields of Europe and the battle- joined up in Toronto. From there he Tom recalls being hit by friend- fields of social justice. was sent to Montreal for basic ly fire and taking cover in a barn. training. He spent the first few The barn was bombed and col- years in the Canadian military sta- lapsed on top of him. “I managed tioned in different parts of Canada, to crawl out,” he said. “Afterwards Spiritual Journey ends at Vimy helping train other soldiers in I heard a guy calling so I dug him guerilla warfare because of his out. It was kind of funny at the time VIMY, France – A Ceremony of will be visiting,” said Ray Rogers, stood their ground,” said Minister experience in the bush. In fact, he because as he stuck his head out Remembrance was conducted at Aamjiwnang First Nation, Chairman Guarnieri. “On the Vimy Memorial helped develop the pop-up targets from the rubble he looked at me Vimy to honour Canadians who gave of the First Nations Veterans of can be found the names of at least 35 for rifle field practice that are still and asked me for a smoke!” their lives in wartime. Annually con- Canada. “For example, Canada had Aboriginal Veterans whose stories used today by the military. From Many Germans surrendered to ducted the Sunday before one of the most important roles in the will never be known, except for the Newfoundland to British the advancing Allied forces. Remembrance Day, this year's cere- D-day landings, and made major fact that they never came home.” Columbia, Tom was given a full Towards the end of the war, Tom mony was held in advance to allow gains. It gives me great pride that While in Europe the delegation tour-of-duty in the country he recalls thousands of Germans giv- for the inclusion of a delegation of First Nations people participated so also participated in ceremonies at would soon be defending overseas. ing up. visiting First Nations, Métis and that we may live in peace and free- two First World War monuments in With World War II raging, in He especially remembers Inuit Spiritual Elders, Veterans and dom. On a percentage basis First Belgium – the St. Julien Memorial 1942 he found himself in England, chumming around with his cousin youth from Canada. Nations had the highest contribution and Hill 62 – and at Bény-sur-Mer training with a unit that specialized Lawrence Whiteduck who had also The ceremony at Canadian rate. I am honoured to attend this Canadian War Cemetery in in signal technology. These com- enlisted. Tragically, Lawrence was Cemetery No. 2 on the grounds of special Journey and represent those Normandy, France. An Inuksuk now munications specialists were killed during a bombing raid and the Canadian National Vimy who are not able to go, including stands next to the Juno Beach skilled in running and repairing Tom never knew where his friend’s Memorial was the final event in those we have lost and those who are Centre, its windows facing Canada phone lines during heavy battle grave was. He searched for years Europe for the members of the not well enough to travel.” and the nearby war cemetery, to action. The communications lines but was never able to locate his Aboriginal Spiritual Journey. They “It is so very appropriate that our serve as a permanent marker of the were vital links between Allied burial site. departed Canada October 26th, visit- last commemorative ceremony is journey. The delegation returns to forces to keep troops informed In the mid 1980’s Tom re-visit- ed Canadian war memorials and bat- being held at Vimy and that we make Ottawa tomorrow, November 3rd, about military strategies. ed France with his son Darrell to tlefield locations in Belgium and this visit during Canada's Year of the and will participate in a Ceremony of “I asked to join the Algonquin seek some kind of closure for his France, and conducted a Calling Veteran,” said the Honourable Remembrance in the Senate of Squad,” said Tom, “They were on wartime experience. They stum- Home Ceremony involving the cus- Albina Guarnieri, Minister of Canada on November 4th before the front lines and that was where I bled across an unknown cemetery toms and traditions of First Nations Veterans Affairs. “Because it is here departing for home towns. wanted to be.” and discovered Lawrence and Métis peoples and the Inuit to at Vimy Ridge that Canadians would Additional information about the By 1945, Tom’s new unit was Whiteduck’s grave. invite the spirits of fallen warriors to come together as a unified force to Aboriginal Spiritual Journey, includ- in heavy action at Hubert Fale near Tom says his mind was at ease, return to Canada to rest with their fight one of their most significant ing photos and youth delegates’ Cannes, France. He recalls the knowing he had found his cousin ancestors. battles of the First World War. And “blogs,” can be found on the fierce and bloody fighting, with and friend. “Canadians played a major role here, like so many other battlefields, Veterans Affairs Canada web site, at in defending many of the places we Aboriginal people from Canada www.vac-acc.gc.ca. Page 4 Anishinabek News November 2005 Maanda ndinendam

The Anishinabek News is a monthly publication of the Union of Ontario Indians (UOI). Views expressed are not necessarily the opinion or political ics goes something like this: if we can just con- position of the UOI. vince those stubborn Indians to leave their No portion of this paper, including advertisements, artwork, photos and Kashechewan: editorial content may be reproduced without written permission of the reserves, all their problems – and OURS – will be Anishinabek News Editor or UOI Executive. solved. As the National Post editorialized, this Readers are invited to submit letters, articles, and photos for publication. exodus – which sounds a lot more like ethnic Please include your name, address and telephone number on all material blamed for just cleansing – will lead to Indians getting “real jobs” submitted. All submissions will be reviewed for publication based on priority of interest and edited for clarity of thought, taste, brevity and legal implica- and a “share in the bounty of our modern econo- tions. Remuneration will be paid for submissions only if a written agreement my.” with the Editor is made prior to publication. being there Editor: Maurice Switzer All this assumes, of course, that the same gen- Contributors: Candalee Beatty, Holly Brodhagen, Dave Dale, By Maurice Switzer erous spirit that cost First Nations the use of mil- Rick Garrick, Rosalind Raby, Perry McLeod- lions of hectares of traditional territory will sud- Shabogesic When I visited Kashechewan in March of denly prompt the Rest of Canada to start sharing 1990, I remember being surprised by so many the wealth. Editorial Board: Fred Bellefeuille, Les Couchie, Cathie Favreau, things. Alan Ozawanimke Indians are on reserves precisely because the Co-ordinator: Priscilla Goulais That the Albany River was still frozen solid government of Canada wanted them to be there. The irony is that these ghettoes – many of them Telephone: (705) 497-9127 Toll Free: 1-877-702-5200 when I was already making plans to play golf back home. well off the beaten track – have helped ensure the Fax: (705) 497-9135 e-mail: [email protected] survival of the very cultures that Canada hoped That local shoppers were paying $3.15 for an would disappear. A cynic might argue that the fed- Anishinabek News English cucumber. eral government only apologized in 1998 for its P.O. Box 711, , assimilationist approach to Indian Affairs because North Bay, ON P1B 8J8 And that most of the 1100 residents who then it was such an abject failure. lived in the Cree com- munity on the western The country’s aboriginal population is grow- shore of James Bay were ing faster than any other demographic. The major- drinking bottled water. ity of children entering the Saskatchewan public school system will soon be Native, many of them A four-litre plastic Plains Cree cousins of the Mushkegowuk – or Publishing Criteria jug of Labrador Spring Swampy Cree – of Kashechewan. The number of Water sold for $5.55 at Treaty Indians attending post-secondary schools has swelled from under 100 just 40 years ago to GOAL the local Northern Store. To publish a quality newspaper and related publications Few buildings had run- over 30,000 today. designed to foster pride and share knowledge about ning water, I was told, Anishinabek current affairs, culture, goals, and accomplish- and most people pre- Yes, it is true that more than half of the ments. ferred bottled water over 800,000 First Nations people in Canada now OBJECTIVES the heavily-chlorinated reside off reserve, but in many cases that is To provide information that reflects the Creator’s four original tapwater from the Maurice Switzer because their communities have been excluded gifts to the Anishinabek: Albany River. Piles of from sharing in the natural resource wealth that is the bedrock of Canada’s economy. Respect: To welcome diversity and encourage a free garbage were still visible on the frozen ice . . . and exchange of opinions that may differ without being disagree- would be until the spring thaw. able. Fair and humourous comments are welcomed, but not Where do members of the “move-the-Indians” ridicule or personal attacks. The other thing that surprised me – and always school think the country’s mining and petroleum Honesty: Debwewin – speaking the truth – is the corner- does when I visit places like Kashechewan and and forestry wealth resides – at the corner of Bay stone of our newspaper’s content. Iqaluit and Sheshatshiu – is that the Cree, and and Bloor streets? One of the country’s major dia- Inuit, and Innu people I meet never complain mond finds – the massive DeBeers open-pit Victor Sharing: Providing opportunities for people from the four Mine – will be operated near Attawapiskat, a corners of the Anishinabek Nation to tell stories and record nearly as much about their austere surroundings as achievements, and to keep our citizens informed about activi- the journalists who write about them from cosy $3.15-cucumber’s throw from Kashechewan. ties of the Union of Ontario Indians. newsrooms in Ottawa, Vancouver, and Toronto. If Canada starts fulfilling its fiduciary obliga- Strength: To give a voice to the vision of the Anishinabek Nation that celebrates our history, culture and language, pro- Then again, the writers who have been freely tion toward First Nations peoples, it will ensure motes our land, treaty, and aboriginal rights, and supports the tossing around phrases like “Third-World condi- that they will have a share envisioned by the development of healthy and prosperous communities. tions” and “national disgrace” to describe the treaties in the benefits of the mines and pipelines recent Kashechewan evacuation are likely people and timber lots. This will lead to “real jobs” and NOTE: The Editor reserves the right to edit all submissions who wrinkle their noses at the thought of using an “real education.” for brevity, clarity, and suitability for publication. All formal outdoor privy at the cottage in Muskoka. They do comments and complaints must be addressed to Editorial And hopefully it will lead away from bottled Board c/o Anishinabek News. not seem to understand that their stories make the people who live in places like Kashechewan seem water. as dirty as the water that flows from their taps, and the polluted air that chokes the geese they have hunted for thousands of autumns. Maurice Switzer is a citizen of the Mississaugas of . He serves Advertising & News Deadlines It has always been convenient for outsiders to as director of communications for the Union of The current circulation of the Anishinabek News is 10,000 copies, blame North America’s indigenous peoples for Ontario Indians in North Bay, and editor of the with 9,000 mailed and 1,000 distributed at various events. something. We have been called savages because Anishinabek News. DEADLINES FOR we dressed, ate, and worshipped differently. We DECEMBER ISSUE have been called lazy because the theft of our lands destroyed any hopes of building economies. Advertising And we have been called dysfunctional because Bookings: Nov. 21 our parents were forced to attend schools where Final Art: Nov. 25 they were beaten, raped, and died. News News submissions: Nov. 21 And now, with their children’s flesh covered Scheduled printing: Dec. 7 with sores from drinking water from the same river that has sustained them since time immemo- For more information or inquiries to the Anishinabek News related to advertising and circulation issues please call our new rial, the Cree from Kashechewan are blamed for toll-free number: 1-800-463-6408 just being there. The prevailing wisdom from the armchair crit- Sign at Kashechewan airport. November 2005 Anishinabek News Page 5 Maanda ndinendam/Opinion ’s Section 6 gradually killing off Status Indians By Lynn Gehl because Section 6 of the Indian Act children will be registered as 6(2) standing that may exist regarding status whereas the children of a 6(1) It is often said that when the is more complicated than the old Indians in accordance with the my reason for pursuing a constitu- Indian and an unknown paternity are Indian Act was amended in 1985, the patrilineal system, it confuses people Indian Act. For example, if a 6(1) tional challenge to the Indian Act. It registered as 6(2). Further, the man- federal government removed the and they are Indian has children with another is in regards to issues of unknown ner in which the Registrar interprets very controversial enfranchisement therefore unable 6(1) Indian or a 6(2) Indian their paternity and the Indian Act. unknown paternity as a non-status section. This is not true in that what to manipulate the children will be registered as 6(1). Specifically, I am denied status reg- person is unconstitutional and this is the federal government actually did rules to achieve This differs for people who are reg- istration because, although the the basis of my constitutional chal- was re-codify the enfranchisement what they want. istered under section 6(2) of the Indian Act is silent when someone's lenge versus my grandmother’s process in the form of the second- It is really Indian Act in that a 6(2) Indian must paternity is not known, the Registrar unwillingness to state who my generation cut-off rule in Section 6 quite simple have children with another 6(1) or of the Department of Indian Affairs grandfather was. I truly respect my of the current Indian Act. though. Today 6(2) Indian if they want their chil- interprets unknown paternity, when grandmother's need to take this Because of the second-genera- there are two dren to have status. Interestingly, it arises, as a non-status person. This knowledge with her when she tion cut-off rule it is estimated that, types of Indians: Lynn Gehl these children will be registered as is known as a negative presumption passed on to the spirit world, for due to the number of Native people 6(1) and 6(2). A 6(1) Indian, male or 6(1) Indians. If a 6(2) Indian person of paternity. whatever reason, and do not judge who are having children with non- female, can produce status children has children with a non-status or As a result of this practice, many her in any way for doing so. Native or non-status people that with any partner they choose. This non-Native person, their children children and grandchildren, such as within 75 years there will no longer means he or she can have children will not be entitled to status registra- myself, are denied registration. For Lynn Gehl, Algonquin is a PhD be any Native children born who are with a non-status Native person or tion. example, children of a 6(2) parent student in Native Studies at Trent entitled to status registration. And even a non-Native person and their I want to clear up any misunder- and an unknown paternity are non- University. Not everyone Get your name and came home Editor: your path will follow As 2005, the year of the By Spencer Rowe Then it hit her. He taught her that Veterans, slowly slips by, I write I am a contrary, sometimes not only was she capable of loving to remind you all to not only referred to as two-spirit within an another person, but that she was remember our Veterans who Aboriginal culture already under also capable of being loved. From returned to us by the will of the genocidal siege. that moment on her life had Creator, from the wars that they There are few of us left of my changed. She sought the healing chose to fight in as allies for free- generation. Most of the “others” of she needed, no more drug/alco- dom, democracy and the right to my time were precisely killed dur- hol/abusive lifestyle drama. No be Aboriginal peoples, to fight for ing the AIDS phenomenon. more false ideas of who she is. equality, acceptance and a future Still, forward I go, devoid for a So many people claim to be for those yet to come. time of love, of companionship. By something, yet upon the slightest But to also remember all those my thirties all whom I loved, all critical examination they prove to of our peoples who did not come family I created to escape the be something quite different and home, whose remains were nightmare of my own, had died. A it's usually a little icky. Yes, icky. returned to Mother Earth far from lifetimes worth Where do we start? Where can their homes, families, relatives had vanquished. we begin a journey that actually and friends. I had one thing will be helpful for our people? We Remember them for their left, an identity. start by love. Love of community, bravery, respect them for their Through my love of others and love of self. dedication, honor them for their name and my I don't mean the “feeling” I valor and remember them with clan I continued mean the sacrifice. Actually, if you pride. to follow my do it right I should say sacrifices! It All my relations, historical and Spencer Rowe is a willingness to trust spirit, and Fred Loft, Hamilton traditional roles trust your path in all that you do. and duties, alone, until a young Naturally you have to get a child came into my life, a vulnera- name first. If you don't know who ble child of many foster homes. you are, then how on earth can you Teaching history is political power I screamed to spirit to not give know what you're supposed to be By Doug George-Kanentiio but a sharp and scary image; our footprints in the me this responsibility, but to no doing? The language of the At a recently concluded history session hosted by course of human events were casual and of no real con- avail. I adopted this child as my Anishnabeg is, if nothing else, one St. Lawrence University in Canton, NY those in atten- sequence. own. My life became that as a of spirit, therefore it stands to rea- dance learned that – far from being a benign subject Yet there were those few who thought otherwise. Mother/Father. For two years, son that an Anishnawbe requires a restricted to dusty classroom texts – They instinctually knew that if we were to be saved night and day it was a battle. He spirit name. I think not having a the retelling of who we were has from the trash bin of history, if we were to be more than spent many years trying to demon- name goes a long way in explain- everything to do with what we have a footnote we had to reinterpret how that history was strate and confirm that I too would ing the difficulties we are faced done. taught and to make it a the dynamic center of a new abandon him. I never did. with. There is no element of our cur- identity, one based on pride, dignity and a touch of Yes, he was trouble, but trou- Turtle Island is filled with rent lives which is unaffected by the arrogance. bled with reason. It was logical for Nishes of every stripe going about experiences of our ancestors, This called for a revolution in learning and like all him to be distrustful, angry, their business getting involved in whether as individuals, families or radical changes had to begin with the convictions of a demanding and challenging, as it is activities and projects that quite as a community. single human being. logical for many of our people to possibly they should have nothing History is much more than the Ray Fadden For the Mohawks of Akwesasne it was Ray feel this way. But these are things to do with! I have finally made recitation of dates, personalities and Fadden-Tehanetorens. that have no real purpose. It is hurt sense of the insanity. Get your events; it is best understood when we examine motives, This intrepid aboriginal teacher, born in the done to us, that we then do to oth- name and your path will follow. Oh values, circumstances and consequences. Adirondack Mountains, elected not to assume political ers or ourselves. We must get over yeah, the boy is now 23 and in For instance, what compelled our ancestors to per- power but to alter the hearts and minds of his students. this or we will never go forward, University with a wonderful sist in their retention of a distinct Mohawk identity He knew that once they came to realize the truth as to ever. I have nothing new to say. But fiancée who I actually like. when the powerful forces of integration and assimila- who they were their previous assumptions of inferiori- what I can offer is perhaps the I am “he is quiet.” tion were brought to bear upon them by the state, fed- ty would be cast aside and that every aspect of the dom- “moment,” the “moment” when we eral government, provinces and Christian religions? inant society would be questioned and challenged. start the healing process. J. Spencer Rowe is of the Curve Why hold on to a small plot of land, speak an abo- Fadden’s teaching methods had a profound effect I was speaking with an Lake First Nation. He is a graduate riginal language or sustain a Native culture when the on every aspect of Mohawk life and thereby changed Anishnabe-kwe the other day and of the Ontario College of Art and schools, churches and external service agencies ham- the course of aboriginal history. she was sharing with me the story Design, has a Bachelors degree in mer the singular theme that all of what is Mohawk is Can anyone seriously doubt that the rise of the of her brother, who had died of social work from the University of bad? Native rights movement could have taken place with- AIDS in the 1980’s – he would be Victoria, and a Master of Arts If we are to believe the external forces those who out Fadden’s students leading the way through such about my age now. We tried to dis- degree from York University. He is came before us were simplistic, sensual, savage and vehicles as the White Roots of Peace or Akwesasne cover what it was he offered her, the author of: The Last of the sadistic. We contributed nothing to the world at large Notes? what was his role in his short life? Dodo’s: Voice of the Two Spirit. Page 6 Anishinabek News November 2005 Gimaa/Chiefs Vision, Housing tops new chief’s networking agenda of local issues Chief Dan Couchie was elected into office on Pic River First Nation Sept. 24, key goals 2005. Dan Couchie is new to the role of Chief in Pic River, but not to local politics Chief John F. Bouchard of Pays or leadership. He sat on the council for three consecutive terms before he decid- Plat First Nation wants to work on a ed to run for Chief. This valuable time was the training ground he needed to long-term vision for his community. Chief John F. Bouchard eventually take the next step. He had taken a couple of years off from local pol- Chief Dan Couchie This includes continuing work on itics just prior to him throwing his name in for Chief because he was nearing his social, economic and political issues. retirement and wanted to prepare himself and his family for this change. “I am placing a lot of importance on networking with neigh- Chief Dan Couchie is originally from Nipissing First Nation but transferred bouring communities, developing a working relationship with to Pic River in 1996. He worked in various parts of the country for Parks Canada in his 30-year career with, Schreiber, Terrace Bay and Rossport on government issues that beginning in 1975 as a Park Warden and eventually moving up to Manager of Resource Conservation before affect small communities in the north,” says Chief Bouchard. “This he retired. includes the proposed marine conservation area and access to nat- During a stint at Pucasaw National Park Dan and his wife became closely connected to Pic River First ural resources.” Nation and found themselves drawn to the community which they later decided to call their home. On September 6th, 2005 – by a two-vote margin – John While on council, Dan was approached by Chief Roy Michano to sit on the Union of Ontario Indians and Bouchard narrowly defeated incumbent Chief Raymond Province of Ontario’s Resource Management Council, where he began learning about the bigger picture of Goodchild. All three incumbents for the council seats were re- Indian and non-Indian Politics. Since being elected as Chief, Dan has resigned from the RMC because of his elected: Rene Wanakamik, Xavier Thompson and Frank new workload and responsibilities. Acheepineskum retained their positions on council. Chief Couchie has a full plate of local issues to tackle, and housing is at the top of his list. He believes Chief Bouchard and his council will continue to monitor the that a new way of financing the housing program must be found to address the problem of sub-standard homes feasibility study currently underway for a windpower project. The in so many First Nations. A Housing Authority has been discussed and plans to examine this initiative are con- project was undertaken to determine the feasibility of an alternate tinuing. All other programs such as education, health, policing, social services, etc… also work in deficit. source of electricity for Pays Plat and neighbouring communities. “This has to change,” says the new Chief, “The lack of proper funding is holding us back,” he goes on to say. One outstanding issue Chief Bouchard would like to address Economic development is also a key to the funding issue. Without a good economic base dependency on gov- during his term is the resolution of the Land and Larger Land Base ernment funded programs will continue. developed between Pays Plat and the Ontario Government in 1992. Internal policy development is also high on the agenda. Changes to present policies as well as completing It originally was intended to resolve land and resource issues and and putting into place new policies are things that most First Nations require. develop a management regime that would protect treaty and On national issues, Chief Couchie sees self-government as a cautious goal. Aboriginal rights, water rights and mineral extraction on Pays Plat “We need to be ready for this,” he says, noting that First Nations need to do much preparation before tack- traditional territory. It has failed to do so thus far. ling such a monumental task. But he strongly believes in his people and is confident it can be done!

UOI in-house ad AEI offering Governance program

10.25” x 7” November 2005 Anishinabek News Page 7

Aboriginal OntarioOpen for Business www.aboriginalontario.com A Special Report on Economic Development by and Troubled youth tackles sand-carving business By Rick Garrick Big Canoe began developing TORONTO – A troubled youth Otter Clan Sand Carving after from the Chippewas of Georgina doing research over the past year Island has changed his life around on possible business ideas. and is now well on his way to “Now we’re partnering with developing his own business, Otter Aboriginal artists – we want to Clan Sand Carving. feature their artwork.” “I was a rebel,” says Nathan Big Canoe uses a sandblaster, Big Canoe, whose grade 12 marks which he and his mother bought averaging in the 80’s and 90’s with their own funds, to etch the Pic River rest stop Bonnie Couchie of Pic River First earned him the Celebrating Aboriginal artwork onto the glass Nation wants weary travellers to Student Success Award from the and stone award, promotional and know about her new cozy one- York Region District School Board display pieces he plans to market bedroom guest suite that over- last year. “I got into a lot of trou- to Aboriginal organizations and looks the beautiful Pic River. This Nathaniel Big Canoe and another participant in E-Spirit Business Awards ble with the law.” communities and tourists in the 5-star rest stop features a private program. But when Big Canoe realized central Ontario region. kitchenette, full three-piece bath- the bad example he was showing annual E-Spirit Aboriginal Youth tacts among the other youth and “I have always been interested room, patio entrance, high-speed his four younger brothers and sis- Business Plan Competition in some of the other participants. about going into business,” Big internet access, cable, and phone. ters, he began to change his life Edmonton, Alberta, where he was “The whole point of that event Canoe said. “Business has always It provides brand new, clean and around for the better. one of 240 Aboriginal youth from was to network,” Big Canoe says, been a passion of mine.” comfortable accommodations for up to three people with a stunning “Everything seemed to have across Canada chosen to present a noting that he and his two chaper- Although Otter Clan Sand trade show exhibit featuring their ones, Dave Jones and Isador view of the river. Pic River Guest happened for a reason,” Big Canoe Carving is currently a home-based Suite is now available at 31 Rabbit says. “You have a choice, you own business ideas. Toulouse, were invited to a gather- business, Big Canoe plans to Road. Pic River First Nation is just don’t have to lead that type of “It was exciting,” Big Canoe ing by Susan Aglukark. “It was a upgrade to a different location on minutes off of Hwy. 17 between lifestyle. You can really make a says. “It was a great experience. I great event – it brought a lot of the reserve within the next year. Sault Ste. Marie and Thunder Bay. change and make something of loved it.” Although Big Canoe did- Aboriginal youth together from “We want to get established For more information contact (807) your life.” n’t win at the E-Spirit competition, across Canada. I’m still in contact and build a client network first,” 229-8790 or e-mail her at bcouch- Big Canoe attended the fifth he felt he made some good con- with many of them.” he says. [email protected].

Cassette Media Small Business

10.25” x 7.5” Page 8 Anishinabek News November 2005

Nipissing strongly approves new fisheries law NIPISSING FN – The members plebiscite result was 118 votes in The Chief went on to add “this ing with the fishers who have made of Nipissing First Nation have strong- favour of the fisheries law and 50 provides us with a clear mandate to their management efforts such a ly endorsed a new Fisheries Law and against. Two ballots were spoiled. continue with our approach including remarkable success. Management plan. “This is a resounding endorse- the spring fisheries moratorium, the “I want to thank the fishermen for “This is a historic day for our ment of the belief that our people operation of our fish hatchery and the the sacrifices they have made in order community,” said Chief Philip have that we can continue to manage continued implementation of our fish- to ensure that there will be fish for our Goulais. “Today our people asserted the fishery as we always have. Our eries management plan. The next future generations,” said Chief their Aboriginal right to determine the people have fished on this lake for step will be the establishment of a Goulais. “We will continue to ensure future of our community and heartily centuries and managed our harvest. fisheries market to improve the value that their rights are protected and that affirmed our community’s right to We will continue to do that,” added of the harvest.” the harvest is carried out in a respon- Chief Philip Goulais manage our own fishery.” The final Goulais. Nipissing plans to continue work- sible manner.” Dokis FN monitoring angler ‘pressure’ DOKIS FN – Tourist and local the contours of the lake bottom. anglers are placing more pressure Then habitat was recorded, the main on area lakes than the residents of shoreline features, beaver houses, the traditional First Nations territo- cottages, and substrate type – cob- ries. ble, bedrock, vegetation. Dissolved The purpose of a recent lake oxygen and temperature profiles survey project was to document were recorded at the deepest spot of habitat and the existing fish com- the lake. Water chemistry was munities to lay a foundation for dif- taken to test for parameters such as ferent management options. Some Chloride, Chlorophyll A, of those options will be developed Conductivity, pH, and Total in the new resource management Phosphorus. plan designed by Jack , The productivity of a lake can Dokis Economic Development be determined by classifying it as John and Mabel Dokis assist in project to survey lakes in traditional territory. Officer. oligotrophic, mesotrophic, or Seven lakes within the Dokis eutrophic. This in turn relates to the Contaminant samples were taken mer student Grant Stevens and biol- the northern pike, but also had a First Nation territory were chosen – type of fish species present and the from the larger fish to be sent away ogist Kim McIntyre assisted with good forage base with perch and Harris, Hemlock I and Hemlock II, number sustainable in the ecosys- for analysis to provide an estimate the project.. Preliminary results pumpkinseed species. The surprise Migisa, Robin, Trout and Pike – tem. of how many fish could be eaten in indicate that Hemlock I and II have was the lonely walleye caught, lakes which have been heavily A lake survey net was set to a year. a great number of large mouth bass thought to have been stocked 20 fished in recent years. All are close sample small and large local fish Technician Ed Dessen of the that average a pound, rock bass, years ago. The habitat favours the to tourist camps and some are easi- species, catching bait fish as well as Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries sunfish, shiners, yellow perch and a northern pike with weedy shallow ly accessible by roads. the sports fish. Minnow traps were Resource Centre headed up the report of a northern pike. The habi- beds. This lake has easy road access The lakes were mapped with also set to provide a better idea of project with Dokis workers John tat is ideal with lots of weed beds. less than five minutes from Dokis computer program BASS that gives the diversity of forage fish. and Mabel Dokis. A/OFRC sum- Pike Lake’s main predator was First Nation. Fish farming on economic agenda SAULT STE MARIE – suitable near-shore sites for cage cul- industry is significant, representing Aquaculture joined economic devel- ture of rainbow trout in Georgian 13% of total seafood production and opment and governance on the agen- Bay’s North Channel presented an 21% of total value, demonstrating the da of the 12th Annual CANDO attractive opportunity. economic importance of aquaculture (Council for the Advancement for In 1992, following careful plan- in Canada. Native Development Officers) con- ning and training, The industry offers real potential ference Oct.17-21. Wabuno Fish for strategic job creation, particularly Aquaculture, the farming of fish, Farm was in rural and coastal communities and shellfish and aquatic plants generates launched. Four it provides processors with a depend- safe, high quality seafood for con- years later, the able, year-round supply of products. sumers and is now the fastest growing Band established Acting in a supporting role to the wild food production sector in the world. Wabuno Fish fishery, it fills a complementary niche “Significant opportunities exist Processors – a in export markets. for Aboriginal communities to devel- processing ven- Chief Patrick Based on a culture of co-existence op more meaningful participation in ture providing Madahbee with land and water, Aboriginal com- fisheries and aquaculture” Chief more control over munities in the basin Patrick Madahbee told conference quality and mar- have a history of fishing for food, cer- delegates. “This includes the potential keting and increased employment emony and commerce that precedes Elder Art Meawasige from Serpent River First Nation shows some of for synergistic integration of these opportunities. the arrival of European settlers. In the the incidental catches by non-Native commercial fishermen. sectors through avenues such as pro- In spite of several challenges, late 1800s and early 1900s, fish popu- cessing, marketing, transportation, Wabuno Fish Farm and Wabuno Fish lations were decimated by large Euro- Fishing strategy developed infrastructure, enhancement, etc.” Processors continue to operate as Canadian and American fishing fleets Among , divisions of the Ojibways of Sucker in Lake Huron and . The The Resource Management Council (RMC) has begun to devel- Chief Madahbee’s home community Creek Economic Development supply of the most valuable species op a strategy to address fisheries issues between the Anishinabek of Aundeck Omni Kaning was an Corporation. declined due to over-exploitation and Nation and the Province of Ontario. aquaculture pioneer. In response to From less than 11,000 tonnes of habitat alteration. Nevertheless, the A new Fisheries Management Working Group (FMWG) was high unemployment within the com- production having a value of $35 mil- fishery remains a core economic formed out of a meeting involving Isadore Day, Serpent River First munity, the First Nation began to lion in 1986, Canadian aquaculture activity of Aboriginal communities Nation, Mark Muschette, Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR), develop an aquaculture venture that output increased at an average annual around Georgian Bay, however, and Jason Laronde, RMC Coordinator, Union of Ontario Indians. would generate sustainable, year- rate in excess of 19% by the turn of Aboriginal participation in the $6.5 The new committee will also be involving the Anishinabek/Ontario round employment. The community’s the century. By 2002, production million commercial fishery on Lake Fisheries Resource Centre to assist in fisheries expertise, communi- limited land base restricted opportuni- approached 177,000 tonnes valued at Huron is nominal as the major benefit cations and liaison with First Nations. ties in forestry and other resource- $639 million. Today, aquaculture's from the resource accrues to non- based activities, but the availability of contribution to the Canadian seafood Aboriginal interests. November 2005 Anishinabek News Page 9 Communication Wasauksing woman launches new magazine BELLEVILLE – A brand new Aboriginal women’s publication enti- tled EarthTALKER has just launched from the Quinte area! EarthTALKER is a bi-weekly newsletter for the contemporary aborigi- nal woman. 5000 free copies will be distributed to the public at Aboriginal businesses, administration offices, and First Nations organi- zations across Ontario. Sheila Desjarlais is the owner and publisher of EarthTALKER. Ms. Desjarlais, originally from Wasauksing First Nation, is quiet and reserved; seemingly not at all the type of person who would be the driv- ing force behind such a unique and inspiring new business venture. A resident of the Quinte area for almost ten years, Ms. Desjarlais entered the Self-Employment Benefit Program (SEB) offered by the Prince Maurice Switzer, left, director of communications for the Union of Ontario Indians and John Size, the North Bay Edward Lennox & Addington (PELA) Community Futures Nugget’s managing editor, proof a Niijii Circle page. The page – containing Anishinabek News articles – is pub- Development Corporation, After completing a six week intensive busi- lished in each Saturday's edition of the daily newspaper, and was cited as a best practice by the Canadian Race ness planning course hosted by Trenval, Sheila has unveiled Relations Foundation. – Photo by Paul Chivers, The Nugget EarthTALKER to rave reviews from readers. Based in Belleville, EarthTALKER will be an integral link and resource for Aboriginal families and organizations whose vision is to News partnership wins award reclaim traditional teachings and values that help to guide everyday lives. Available in glossy print, and on-line, this eight-page newsletter is By Dave Dale foundation’s Best Practices from its variety of content and dedicated to promoting respect for Aboriginal womanhood, protecting For The Nugget Reader, posted on its website and tone. the balance within families, personifying roles and responsibilities, and NORTH BAY – A unique part- distributed widely across the coun- “Public education…most of providing a forum for celebrating aboriginal women and their gifts! nership between the North Bay try. the material would fall under the Reader’s of EarthTALKER will find current news articles, role Nugget and the Union of Ontario Niijii is an eastern Ojibwa heading of public education,” he model/success story, health news, a DreamSeekers section which show- Indians has won national recogni- word for friends. Maurice Switzer, said, referring to event coverage or cases artwork, poetry and storytelling from our children, program pro- tion. UOI director of communications, features about Native people. “It’s files that outline successful aboriginal community initiatives and much, The Niijii Circle page, with said the the Niijii Circle partner- not preaching, but just telling peo- much more! content produced by the UOI’s ship was among 75 nominations ple what’s going on.” Subscriptions for EarthTALKER are available to individuals and Anishinabek News and published judged by the foundation this year. Niijii pages feature a mix of organizations in singles as well as in quantities of 10 and 20 copies. in The Nugget’s Saturday editions, “Aboriginal people are reading business profiles and human inter- Sponsors wishing to advertise in the newsletter can do so by calling earned Honourable Mention in the it . . . I know it’s being read,” est stories, as well as some politi- 613-771-1610, or by sending an email to: [email protected] Canadian Race Relations Switzer said, adding the Saturday cal content, most of which also Aboriginal women wishing to share their stories, to subscribe, or Foundation’s 2005 Awards of page has been published for more appear in the UOI’s monthly organizations wishing to profile your community program, should con- Excellence. than 170 weeks and only missed Anishinabek News. tact EarthTALKER at: telephone/fax: 613-771-1610 or by email: The initiative will be listed once due to the Ontario blackout in This same collaboration won [email protected] or by regular mail at 191 Ann Street, Unit B, among 20 of the top anti-racism 2003. The Nugget recognition in the Belleville, ON. K8N 3L2. projects from across Canada in the Its popularity, he said, stems Nipissing and District Human Rights Hall of Fame two years ago as part of the International Day for Nbisiing on Canada AM the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. NIPISSING FN – The popular well as the uniqueness of our com- Managing editor John Size said CTV network morning show munity,” said principal Muriel the Niijii Circle page is an impor- Canada AM will be doing a live Sawyer. tant addition to The Nugget’s broadcast from Nbisiing “Imagine we will be on nation- weekend package, offering unique Secondary School on Thursday. al TV for others to see how great cultural perspectives in a consis- Nov. 17 beginning at 6:30 am in our community really is and how tent package. the gymnasium. proud we are of our school and “It provides a broader perspec- “This is such a perfect oppor- what we are trying to accomplish tive that can benefit all readers,” tunity to highlight the school as for Aboriginal education.” Size said. Switzer said national exposure for the Niijii Circle may give other organizations and newspapers a ready-made model to address the lack of understanding between Native communities and main- stream media. “It gives readers a greater understanding of aboriginal issues, while building relationships between Native and non-native communities,” he said. “I hope other organizations and newspa- pers make similar partnerships.” Switzer, a former publisher of several daily newspapers and for- mer communications director with the Assembly of First Nations, said every effort to improve under- standing of Native issues is worth- while. “I don’t always agree with everything The Nugget publishes, First Nation, first snowflakes but this is a sign The Nugget feels Claudio Warneboldt, left, and Canada World Youth program supervisor it’s important that Native people Heather Hossie, right, enjoy Jacob Mwailemale's delight at touching his and their organizations have first snowflake. A contingent of 20 young people from Tanzania, Kenya, access to the newspaper . . . and and Canada participated in a cross-cultural workshop staged by the that’s more than most newspapers Union of Ontario Indians communications unit at the UOI head office at do,” he added. Nipissing First Nation. – Photo by Ryan Carmichael Page 10 Anishinabek News November 2005 Dnakmigziwin/Sports Sudbury braces for 2500 Little NHLers By Candalee Beatty SUDBURY – “The puck drops in 152 days,” Sudbury city council- lor Ron Dupuis reminded those attending a press conference announcing details about the 35th anniversary edition of the Little NHL hockey tour- nament. Launched 35 years ago in Little Current, the Little Native Hockey LITTLE NHL PLANNERS – On hand for the press conference announcing plans for the 2006 Little NHL League has grown from a modest 17 teams to more than 120 expected to Tournament were, from left, executive members Chico Ralf and Clarence Lewis, Shannon Bebamash, Little play this year when the tournament is held in Sudbury March 12-16, NHL Coordinator, president George Francis, SudburyCouncillor Ron Dupuis, and Rob Skelly, Manager of Marketing and Tourism for the Greater City of Sudbury. 2006. The three founding communities – Whitefish River First Nation, Aundeck Omni Kaning and M’Chigeeng First Nation – were the first to host the event and this year it will be hosted by the Little NHL executive committee. This year’s theme “Past, Present and Future Stars.” “It will be bigger and better than ever before,” said George Francis, Little NHL President. “For me, it’s always fun to watch the younger kids like the tykes at the tournament.” Francis has five grandchildren who will be competing in the tournament, which is being staged in Sudbury for the sixth time in ten years. “We’re happy the executive board chose Sudbury,” said Councillor Dupuis. “It’s more than just a hockey tournament. It’s a big reunion for Aboriginal people from across the province. We want to make everyone Media Buying Services feel welcome.” The tournament is expected to use nine Sudbury arenas with over 2500 participants playing 300 games, resulting in an economic spin-off of about $5 million. It is anticipated that all available accommodations in Sudbury and area will be booked solid, forcing many to book hotels 6” x 10.75” as far away as North Bay and Espanola. Registration deadline for the 2006 Little NHL will be a strict Dec. 16, 2005. There will also be an early-bird registration of Nov. 18, providing early registrants the chance to win one free registration during the 2007 Little NHL Tournament. Any registrations received after the deadlines will be put on a waiting list. Shannon Bebamash, Little NHL Coordinator, says there will be nightly entertainment starting with an Alumni Night, Casino Night, a Teen Dance, and Cultural Activities which will be sponsored and pro- vided by Laurentian University’s Native Programs and Services. More information about the 2006 Little NHL Tournament can be obtained by contacting Shannon Bebamash at (705) 377-5307 or sbeba- [email protected].

Country gold CJ Esquimaux (8) of Aundeck-Omni-Kaning First Nation displays his four gold medals he received in cross-coun- try victories this season. CJ, a Grade 4 student at Little Current Public School who has been running competitively for three years, placed first in his age category at the Annual Baron’s Invitational, Sept. 30th in North Bay, the Oct. 6th Wasse-Abin Invitational in Wikwemikong, the 33rd Annual Wiky 10 km Road Race on Oct. 16th and the Island Cross- Country Championships Oct.19th in Gore Bay.

Algonquin Trading Post

4” x 2” November 2005 Anishinabek News Page 11 Nishnaabewin/Culture Wheels in motion for 12th annual language conference By Maheengun Shawanda wonderful banquet which Casino Aanii, Boozhoo, Hello! showcased the scholar- z Surprise This year, our theme ship recipients and an Anishinaabemowin for the Anishinaa- evening of entertainment. Teg gift bag bemowin Teg Language We also had our country Once again, scholar- Conference is “Kwii- ho-down / step dance ship applications are pro- anishinaabemtoowag na evening and our cultural vided by language teach- gdi-binoojiinmag evening with traditional ers for students in elemen- nongo?” (“Will you speak feast. tary, secondary, and post- the language to your chil- The first 500 delegates secondary schools, as dren today?”) The confer- to register for the confer- well as students currently ence will be held March ence by the early registra- enrolled in any Ojibway 30, 31, April 1 - 2, 2006 at tion deadline of language program. The the Kewadin Casino and Wednesday, February 1st, scholarships are available Convention Centre in 2006 will be entered in a in the amount of $100.00 Sault Ste. Marie, draw to win: CAD for elementary Michigan. z Two night’s accom- schools / high school up DOKIS HOSTS WILD FEAST – Last year, over 1100 modation to $500.00 CAD for col- Dokis First Nation Elders from across z Dinner for two at the lege and university. Committee held the second Wild the North America partic- Dream Catchers Pre-registration pay- Food Feast Oct. 30, raising over ipated in a variety of Restaurant ment of $150 Can. with $900 for a trip to Nashville. informative workshops z Two free conference registration form must be Noodin Niimebin (Wind Dancer) Community donations helped pro- and sessions. registrations received in our office by: vide a menu of wild boar, squirrel, We had new-to-fluent z Two banquet tickets Wednesday, February 1st, Teg Inc., 135 Amber naabemowin_teg@sym- beaver, moose, deer, and fish, and speakers of various z Surprise Kewadin 2006 Street, Sault Ste. Marie, patico.ca Website: members of Anishinabek Police dialects and tribes which package Please contact us for Ontario, P6A 6M5 http://www.anishinabek.c Services volunteered their time as continue to strengthen our z Two entertainment more information at: Telephone: (705) 942 a/Language%20Conferen servers. language. There was a tickets at Kewadin Anishinaabemowin 9909. Email: anishi- ce/index.asp – Photo by Sarah Gammon

Pic Mobert ad

Anishinaabemowin Teg Inc. 4” x 6” Language Conference (I left a message for Skip on The Standard’s answering 6” x 7.5” machine Tues., Nov. 15th confirming the only space left for the Pic Mobert ad was 4” x 6” not 6” x 6” as earlier requested. - Deb) Page 12 Anishinabek News November 2005

Native Studies #1 Full Page November 2005 Anishinabek News Page 13 Anishinabek

Angela Recollet, Herb Nabigon, Taima Moeke-Pickering, Sheila Hardy and Dr. Pamela Toulouse, inside the teepee at Laurentian University in Sudbury. Putting the ‘I’ in education Kerry Assiniwe presents Cultural Recognition Award to Dustin Homer, By Heather Campbell with more richness, more dialogue in the classroom Donovan Peltier and Leila Two Bears. SUDBURY – Taima Moeke-Pickering, a Maori and less stereotyping as they share more about their of the Ngati Pukeko and Tuhoe tribes in New own identity,” says Moeke-Pickering. Zealand, delivered an Oct. 20 presentation “Bringing An advocate for the development of Maori-based Sudbury honours students out the best in Indigenous Peoples” to a University of and indigenous education programs, she assisted SUDBURY – The second annual Aboriginal Secondary School Awards Sudbury audience. with the development of the first Maori counselling Banquet held for Sudbury and area students was such a success that partners Head of the School, Te Toi-a-Kiwa: School of program in New Zealand in 1992. She has been United Way of Sudbury and White Buffalo Road are already planning next Maori, Pasifika and Indigenous Studies at Waikato working with Laurentian professors since 2004, year’s event. Institute of Technology in Hamilton, New Zealand, making several visits between Canada and New “We had over 200 students, families and friends attend the banquet with she discussed how indigenous values towards educa- Zealand. Sheila Hardy, Associate Professor, at 11 different award categories for the students,” says Vince Pawis, committee tion are different, and if applied, how that perspec- Laurentian has been collaborating with Moeke- chair. “Receiving these awards builds self esteem in our younger generation tive can enhance student learning. She cited a Maori Pickering and was excited to have her Maori col- and we can see over the past two years how it inspires them to reach high- proverb: “I am the family and the family is me” to league to meet with students and continue building er.” Some of the categories include Academic, Artistic, Athletics, illustrate the need for students to bring their person- the relationship between the two schools. Community Service, Leadership and a new category, Cultural Recognition. al identity to the learning journey, which comes from They are developing an exchange program for Teachers in city schools nominate students for the awards. Students graduat- family and community. Educators can help their stu- staff and students to share similarities and build on ing from Grade 12 receive a certificate and the opportunity to win a laptop dents on the journey of learning. In non-indigenous their strengths as indigenous peoples. Several Native computer generously donated by Chief Ian Davidson of the Greater Sudbury approaches, the self is deducted from the learning Human Services professors will be attending an Police Service. experience, Moeke-Pickering said. international conference on indigenous studies in The 36 students honoured at this year’s banquet heard guest speaker “Identity-based learning means students write New Zealand to present research papers. Sarah Beaudry, a graduate of Lasalle Secondary School and national-level runner, encourage them to never give up going after their dreams.

Canadore College Board of Governors

Garda Westenenk, Fulfillment Program Co-ordinator with Dave Lamothe, President and Gary Westenenk, Operations Manager. 6” x 8” Lamothe a believer By Les Couchie ago, I had a realization that he was Dave Lamothe, owner of Carte the vehicle I was to use. I believe Blanche Promotional Products has in this charity in a profound man- been supporting the Union of ner and have given more to it than Ontario Indians and the any other.” Anishinabek Nation 7th On one occasion I received Generation Charities since 1995. word that a woman suffering from Since the very start of our rela- MS needed a hospital bed to come tionship, David would help out home – she said she didn’t want to with small internal recognition disturb other patients by screaming awards and giveaways for program from the pain she was enduring. use, like the trophy he provided on She wanted to go home so she very short notice to recognize road could be with family and not worry hockey supremacy between Union about disturbing other patients. of Ontario Indians staff and stu- David Lamothe helped Peter dents at Nbisiing Secondary McKeown and myself do what was School. (The school won 4-3.) necessary to get this woman in her David supports many organiza- home within 24 hours. Later she tions in the City of North Bay as passed away, but all of us knew we well as our charity, including the played a small part in preserving Heritage Festival and many sports her dignity and giving her what she teams all year long. wanted, her loving family 24 hours A spiritual man, David says he a day. supports the Aboriginal communi- Not a week goes by that Dave ty because he believes in compas- and I don’t talk, about business, sion and love. but also about the needs of the “We are all called to action in charity. Dave is a small business- this life and my passion is to help man and to commit to $5000 a year those who have no noticeable is a big challenge. I am sure abo- voice – abused women, the voice riginal small business owners out of a child who is in need and the there understand how much work elderly,” he says. is required to “give away” $5,000 “In meeting Les some ten years of your revenues. Page 14 Anishinabek News November 2005

Native Studies #2 Full Page November 2005 Anishinabek News Page 15 family that can devote the one-to- sions. one attention he requires and would Tom requires a family that is Will you be my parent? also benefit from a strong male role willing to put forth an effort in Kina Gbezhgomi Child and occasional family access would be model in his life. Although it may making a difference in the lifetime Family Services Foster Care the perfect candidates. Zack’s his- take a short time to help Zack settle of a child. The interested family Program is located in tory includes several family and in, he will be a welcome addition to would need to have patience, Wikwemikong and services all the foster placements that have been any family. understanding and the willingness First Nation communities of the unable to commit to his long term Tom is an active youth who to help this young man establish a Manitoulin Island area. Kina needs. Due to the various place- enjoys riding his bike, dirt biking, sense of belonging and pride. We Gbezhgomi is looking for commit- ments that Zack has experienced, as well as playing video games. look forward to hearing from your ted families to care for the follow- several support systems have been Tom is in the need of a regular family if you are able to open your ing children: put in place to meet his emotional long-term placement or a family heart and home to this young man. Zack is an affectionate, curi- needs. These existing services will that is willing to have him on a rou- If you are interested in opening ous, energetic boy who will be continue as long as Zack requires tine basis to ensure that, if he can your heart and home for a child, entering grade 5 soon. Parents who them in his life. He is a healthy not reside within his community please contact Sophie at 705-859- are seriously committed to a long- young boy who enjoys reading, full time, he can at least exercise 1010, Kina Gbezhgomi Child & Adeline Marie Michano (nee term permanent placement but are video games and playing with access to his community and cul- Family Services Foster Care Desmoulin) willing to support this child with friends. He would do well with a ture on weekends and special occa- Department. Spirit Journey Adeline Marie Michano, 84, of Pic River First Nation went peacefully on All Saint's Day, November 1, 2005 surrounded by her family in Marathon Wilson Memorial Hospital 25 days after her 84th birthday. Adeline was a loving moth- Cossette Media Public Works er, grandmother, great grand- mother and elder of Pic River First Nation. Adeline had a big heart and she gave much to those around her. She was born on her parents’ trapline near 8” x 6” Dalton, Ontario area on October 8, 1921. She weighed four pounds when she was born, and her determination to survive and be with her family was much a part of who she was. Adeline’s mom was Sarah (nee) Finlayson, her dad, Abraham Desmoulin, and step-mom Dinah Shaganash (widow of Moses Twance). Adeline exchanged vows in marriage with her life partner Matt Michano on October 9, 1939 in Pic River First Nation. Her son Roy, long-time Chief of Pic River, has been an inspiration to many because of his leadership abilities and dedi- cation to community. Granny was truly proud of his accom- plishments as Chief and the accomplishments and dreams of all her children, and family.

Cossette Media Canadian Heritage

10.25” x 5” Page 16 Anishinabek News November 2005 Canada grabbed best lands During the 1800’s and early 1900’s Fort William First Nation had all its valuable reserve lands, including the community site, the arable farm lands, the riverfront lands and the best lakefront lands, taken away by the federal govern- ment, who then gave those lands to new settlers and big companies.

1999: An 1,100 acre parcel of the Railway Taking Lands, expropriated from the reserve in 1905 to make way for the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway, was returned to the band by CN for a $10 price tag and an agreement from the band to take over most of the liabilities pertaining to that land. 2000: Negotiations begin between Fort William First Nation and Bowater to build and lease a sawmill building. 2001: Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs Canada Bob Nault promises to “expedite” the ATR (Additions to Reserve) process for the lands, encouraging Fort William First Nation and The Fort William First Nation-Bowater sawmill project – representing an $80-million investment for the Thunder Bay area economy – is in jeopardy Bowater to sign a 20-year agreement to build because of failure by Indian and Northern Affairs Canada to keep a four-year-old promise to "expedite" transfer of the sawmill site to reserve land status. and lease a sawmill building and property with the understanding that the property would be reserve land before construction was completed and therefore not subject to land taxes. Fort William First Nation also negotiated an agree- Federal government foot-dragging ment with the City of Thunder Bay for no tax loss compensation when the ATR process is complet- ed. INAC contributes $7 million towards the $64.5 million sawmill, FedNor commits $500,000 towards environmental cleanup, the Royal Bank jeopardizes First Nation sawmill provides a $7.5 million mortgage to the band for the project, and Bowater invests about $70 mil- By Rick Garrick gage payments that the Royal Bank Like PCB’s. legislation as the land is transferred lion in equipment and training. Jan. 2002: PCB’s are discovered during excava- THUNDER BAY – Although continues to draw from the band’s That’s when the federal gov- from provincial to federal jurisdic- tion of the building site, requiring $1.24 million in Indian and Northern Affairs operating funds, Peterson said the ernment began backtracking on tion. The federal government’s environmental cleanup costs, of which INAC cov- ered $420,000 on top of the $500,000 already Canada staff and local politicians City continues to support the Nault’s promise, first coming up Department of Justice will not provided by FedNor. say they want to help, Fort William Bowater sawmill project and the with an Environmental Regulatory advise Canada to take over the Aug. 2002: Franz Environ-mental produces a First Nation is getting nowhere fast ATR process. Regime, then additional environ- lands as long as the Regulatory report entitled the Gap Analysis, Field Investigation and Post Remediation Assessment with their ATR (Additions to “We support their position,” mental requirements, then a com- Gap exists. Bowater Site. Reserve) process for the Railway Peterson said. “It’s got to go into prehensive Action List changing its “We took the liability out of Sept. 2002: The band is advised that an Taking lands and Bowater sawmill. federal reserve.” requirement of an Environmental their hands,” Collins said about Environmental Regulatory Regime will be required before completion of the ATR process. “Fort William First Nation is “But until that happens, we’re Regime to a Site Specific Risk CN. “But we didn’t say we would March 2003: The ATR process identifies addi- pouring thousands of dollars a obligated to collect taxes.” Assessment and Environmental take the PCB’s out of their hands.” tional environmental requirements and costs. May 2003: Franz Environ-mental produces a month into taxes that all parties – The Railway Taking lands, Priority and Action Plan, and then As a last ditch measure, Chief Remedial Option Report for Public Works including the federal government – which included a group of Third Collins planned to go to Ottawa in Canada and INAC Lands and Trust. have agreed should not be all of the band’s Party and Title early November to give support to June 2003: The sawmill is completed and begins “We fulfill those issues operation with 150 employees, of which about 30 payable,” said Fort William First arable land and issues which all the The First Nation Industrial and per cent are First Nations citizens. Nation Chief Peter Collins. the community (and) they keep coming have to be com- Commercial Development Bill, July 2003: INAC outlines issues to be addressed “Minister (Robert) Nault promised site, were pleted to finish which INAC introduced to and develops a comprehensive Action List back with more issues. changing its requirement of an Environmental the sawmill site would be returned expropriated in the ATR process. Parliament to deal with Regime to a Site Specific Risk Assessment and to reserve status long before any 1905 by the fed- I don’t know how many Chief Collins Environmental Gap issues. Environmental Priority and Action Plan. At issue times.” is a Regulatory Gap in environmental legislation property taxes would be payable. eral government is frustrated with Local MP Ken Boshcoff has as the land is transferred from provincial to fed- That was the underlying economic to make way for – Chief Peter Collins the constant been trying to encourage Fort eral jurisdiction. The Department of Justice will premise that all parties proceeded the Grand Trunk changes in the William First Nation and INAC to not advise Canada to take over the lands as long as the Regulatory Gap exists. on.” Pacific Railway. federal govern- keep working together. Sept. 2003: The sawmill is assessed $1.5 mil- Shortly after construction on After CN returned an 1,100 ment’s position. “My role is to help move the lion in land taxes, payable to the City of Thunder the state-of-the-art sawmill was acre parcel of those lands in 1999 “We keep going through these process along,” Boshcoff said. Bay. Oct. 2003: INAC and band staff complete a com- completed and operations began in for a $10 price tag and an agree- issues,” Collins said. “We fulfill “I’m absolutely sure the Minister prehensive Action List of items required to com- 2003, the building and property ment from Fort William First those issues (and) they keep com- of Indian and Northern Affairs plete the ATR process. June 2004: Lands and Trust raises Third Party were assessed $1.5 million in land Nation to take over most of the lia- ing back with more issues. I don’t Canada () wants to see and Title issues. taxes, payable to the City of bility issues on the land, the band know how many times.” this through.” July 2004: INAC advises the band that they are Thunder Bay. began negotiations with Bowater John Higham, a director of Unfortunately, both Bowater responsible for the estimated cost of $130,000 to deal with the ATR issues identified by the depart- In Sept. 2004, the City began to build a sawmill which Bowater INAC’s Lands and Trust Services and Fort William First Nation have ment as Third Party issues. seeking payment of the taxes would operate. Ontario Region, said INAC is try- said they are at risk if the situation Sept. 2004: The City of Thunder Bay notifies the which have accumulated to about Nault’s promise as then-minis- ing to work with the band and is not resolved soon. band of their intention to seek collection of the taxes on the sawmill site. $4 million, eventually winning a ter of INAC in 2001 to “expedite” Bowater to implement an environ- “If it doesn’t, Bowater is at Oct. 2004: The band is advised that INAC court battle in Jan. 2005 that gave the ATR process encouraged nego- mental regime for the sawmill site. risk,” said Gordon Manuel, direc- Legislative Projects is drafting The First Nation Industrial and Commercial Development Bill, them the right to seize Bowater’s tiations between Fort William First “We’re trying to find a way to tor of government affairs at which will deal with the Environmental Gap $104,000 monthly lease payments Nation and Bowater, leading to a work with the community and the Bowater’s corporate office in issue. to the band for rental of the 20-year agreement to build and operator (Bowater) to have an South Carolina. Dec. 2004: The band loses their request for an injunction to prevent the City of Thunder Bay sawmill building and property. lease a sawmill building and prop- environmental regime around it “We’re running out of from collecting taxes on the CN lands, including “We’re obligated by law to col- erty with the understanding that the (the sawmill site),” Higham said. resources and time,” Collins said. the sawmill site. lect taxes,” said Thunder Bay property would be reserve land “We’re trying to find a way to reg- “In the worst case scenario, we Jan. 2005: The City of Thunder Bay begins to seize Bowater’s lease payments for rental of the Mayor Lynn Peterson. “The (no before construction was completed ulate it provincially.” would sell the building and proper- sawmill building and site. tax loss compensation) agreement and therefore not subject to land Even though the band had ty.” Sept. 2005: Chief Peter Collins of Fort William First Nation and Luke Drapeau, general manag- is that when it (the sawmill site) taxes. Fort William First Nation nothing to do with the pollution of Anishinabek Grand Council er of Bowater sawmills for Ontario, cut a two-by- becomes reserve land, there will be also negotiated an agreement with the lands, which were owned by Chief John Beaucage says “Fort four to officially open the Bowater sawmill. no taxes.” the City of Thunder Bay for no tax first the Grand Trunk Pacific William First Nation was supposed Oct. 2005: Chief Collins states that, in a worst- case scenario, the band will be forced to sell the Although the City of Thunder loss compensation when the ATR Railway and then the Canadian to be the poster child for building sawmill and Railway Taking lands. Bay is seizing all of Fort William process was completed. National Railway, they are being economies among First Nations.” Nov. 2005: Chief Collins plans to give support to First Nation’s income from the But once the agreements were forced to deal with environmental “Fort William took the risk to the The First Nation Industrial and Commercial Development Bill, which INAC introduced to sawmill and thereby forcing it into signed and construction began, issues in order to prevent a build an economy and now they're Parliament to deal with Environmental Gap financial problems due to the mort- problems began to surface. Regulatory Gap in environmental being punished for it.” issues. November 2005 Anishinabek News Page 17

First Nations gear up for Aboriginal summit OTTAWA– First Nations lead- Attendance at the First ers have high expectations for a Ministers’ Meeting is by invitation Nov. 25 First Ministers’ Meeting only. The security level at FMMs in Kelowna, British Columbia. is high. Officials and media must Media reports predict major present credentials to have access announcements to come out of the to the meeting or the press confer- meeting involving housing, eco- ence. nomic development, and health Planning for FMMs is carried HEALTHY AGENDA – Grand Council Chief John Beaucage and Deputy Grand Council Chief Nelson Toulouse issues affectiung Aboriginal peo- out by the Canadian peruse agenda for Anishinabek Health Commission strategic planning retreat in Huntsville with Elders Merle ples in Canada. Intergovernmental Conference Assance-Beedie, Gordon Waindubence, and Martin Assiniwe. – Photo by Tony Jocko At the September 13, 2004 Secretariat, and with officials Special Meeting between First from the Privy Council Offices’ Ministers and Aboriginal leaders, Intergovernmental Affairs Great Lakes process at ‘crossroads’ Prime Minister Paul Martin made Secretariat. TORONTO – The Political agreements on behalf of Ontario. A tion to the Ontario Court. the following commitment: In February 2005, the FMM Office and Intergovernmental Affairs request for a meeting with the These demands included: “…the Federal, Provincial and planning process began with the have been involved in intensive dis- Minister has not been accommodat- z A jointly-developed consultation Territorial Governments are com- creation of a Streeting Committee, cussions with regard to the Great ed. strategy on the Annex mitted to working with Aboriginal Operations “Designates” Lakes Charter, Annex 2001. The “We are at a cross-roads here.” Implementation Agreements; Leaders to convene a First Subcommittee, and several dis- focus has been in jointly developing a said Grand Council Chief John z Joint discussion and commitment Ministers’ Meeting dedicated to tinction-based Working Groups. consultation process that will ensure Beaucage. “The negotiations have to including First Nations decision- Aboriginal issues including the Three priority Working that First Nations jurisdiction is rec- been completed and the chance for making capacity/on-going consulta- critical determinants of health.” Groups were formed based on the ognized and applied with Ontario’s meaningful consultation is no longer tion within Ontario’s implementation FMMs are called annually by three areas of discussion at the responsibilities under the Annex possible. The government has role and a long-term role for First the Prime Minister to discuss FMM: Housing, Education and Implementation Agreements. expressed interest in working with us, Nations decision-makers, post-agree- issues of importance as needed Relationships. Reports and draft Although a proposal was tabled at but will that be enough?” The Union ment; (i.e. release of Royal Commission discussion documents were a meeting in late-September, a of Ontario Indians have engaged the z Funding a proposal for adequate Reports). They are typically brought to the operational response has not been provided by Province via the Minister’s office and resources and time to implement the attended only by Premiers and Subcommittee on August 19, the Ministry of Natural Resources, has presented a number of demands jointly developed consultation strate- their immediate support staff (e.g. 2005. the lead agency which negotiated the in the face of a UOI judicial applica- gy. senior advisors and Ministers). Grand Council Chief John z Re-introduction of a proposal to FMMs are closed to the public and Beaucage has been the co-chair of include First Nation-US Tribes deci- the media, with a press conference the Housing Working Group, and The sion-making capacity into the Implementation Agreements. following to provide a debrief of has taken a leadership role in the “The need to proper consultation the discussions and announce any Relationships Sub-committee who new initiatives to the public. The is drafting the key documents that Discussions involving the Anishinabek Nation political leadership: is a necessary part of recognizing our jurisdiction on the Great Lakes,” Prime Minister is always the first will be discussed at the First z Aboriginal Blueprint for Health, AHC/HEALTH/GCC said Grand Council Chief John to address the media. Ministers’ Meeting. z Anishinabek Nation Housing Strategy, GCC/UOI/NFN/GFN/SAG/PIC z Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. Leadership, GCC/CMHC Beaucage. z Chiefs Committee on Education, DGC/AFN “We recognize the authority of the z Consultation and Accommodation Discussions, GCC/PO/UST Government of Ontario in negotiating Special assembly in Sault z Education Coordination Unit, DGC/COO z Enforcement and Justice Diversion Pilot Project, GCC/IGA/LEGAL these agreements on behalf of their The Union of Ontario the Anishinabek Nation z First Ministers’ Meeting Working Group, Housing, GCC/AFN/NC citizens. However, our rights have Indians is staging a Special z Resolution 2005-13 – z First Ministers’ Meeting Working Group, Relationships, GCC/AFN/NC been blatantly overlooked here.” z FN Financial Intervention Pilot Project, GCC/AFOA/INAC Assembly in Sault Ste. Marie Direction to the Union of z Gaming Negotiations Lobbying, GCC/OFNLP/COO However, a significant turn of on November 16 -17, 2005 at Ontario Indians to z Intergovernmental (Tripartite) Process in Ontario, IGA/PC/ATT events may see substantive last- the Watertower Inn. Complete a Review of z Inter-treaty Harvesting Discussions, GCC/MNR/IGA minute changes to the Annex z Ipperwash Inquiry Part 2, GCC/IGA/LEGAL Corporate Relationships z Joint Priorities Planning, PO/INAC Implementation Agreements. This is Agenda items include: z Legal Support to Anishinabek Harvesters, LEGAL/GCC of concern to the UOI and to environ- z Natural Resources z Local Health Integrated Networks, GCC/AHC mental organizations, given that the z Nation Building Coordination, PO/AEI/AHC/WOMEN/ELDERS/YOUTH z Inter-treaty Harvesting consultation that took place in July- z National Chiefs Committee on Languages, DGC/COO z Great Lakes Charter z New Comprehensive, Negotiation Framework, GCC/INAC/ROJ August 2005 did not include these Annex z “Noondaagaawin’ Strategic Planning Process, GCC/CEO new development. z OFIFC Partnership, GCC/LEGAL/OFIFC z Self-Government z Ontario Aboriginal Justice Strategy, LEGAL Certain parties to the negotia- z Health Blueprint/Health z Ontario First Nations Housing Strategy, GCC/ANMGI/COO tions, have introduced substantive Accord z Ontario Infrastructure Portfolio, GCC/OFNTSC/COO changes put forward by strong z Proposed Regional Health Accord, COO/AHC/ z Resolution 2005-12 – American lobby groups, including a z Regional Investment Management Board, GCC/MCA/COO/OFNTSC Regional Chiefs & Deputy z Restructuring of Anishinabek Health Commission, GCC/AHC/BOD change that would allow for z Review of Corporate Relationships, CEO/LEGAL increased diversions for bottled Grand Chief Positions of z Senior Negotiation Team, Housing, GCC/AFN/NC z Smoke-Free Ontario Task Force, GCC/MHP water. z Strategic Housing Lobbying, GCC/AFN “These changes in the Annex Political Office Calendar z Traditional Food Vendors, Canab Festival, GCC/PO/MNO/OFIFC Implementation Agreement certainly z Treaty Rights, Harvesting, Conservation & Resources Strategy, IGA/LEGAL z Trinidad Collaboration Agreement/Exchange, DGC/ROSA/PO concern us and we need the ability to November 1-3: AFN Special Chiefs Assembly (FMM), Regina, SK z Urban Aboriginal Strategy - Toronto/Thunder Bay, GCC/MNO/OFIFC/HRSD/INAC influence the decision-making November 8: Ipperwash Inquiry Part 2 Session, Ft. William First Nation Acronyms process and vocalize our opposition November 10: Ipperwash Inquiry Part 2 Session, Garden River First Nation GCC Grand Council Chief / OFNLP Ontario First Nations Limited Partnership/ ELDERS Elder’s in an official capacity,” added Grand November 14: UOI Annual Staff Meeting, Head Office, Nipissing First Nation Council / UOI Union of Ontario Indians / INAC Indian and Northern Affairs Canada / AFN Council Chief Beaucage. November 16-17: UOI Special Chiefs Assembly, Sault Ste. Marie, ON Assembly of First Nations / IGA Intergovernmental Affairs / DGC Deputy Grand Chief / COO November 18: Aboriginal Law Symposium, Toronto, ON Chiefs of Ontario / AHC Anishinabek Health Commission / FNIHB First Nations Inuit and Health “This process is flawed, and I Branch/ HEALTH Ontario Minister of Health / SOCIAL Social Development Dept. / AFOA don’t know if our concerns can be November 21: Metis Harvesting Awareness Day, Alban, ON Aboriginal Financial Officers Association / LEGAL Legal Department / WOMEN Women’s addressed by the Government of November 21: Urban Aboriginal Strategy Meeting, Toronto, ON Council /YOUTH Youth Council / MHP Minister of Health Promotions / OFIFC Ontario Ontario.” November 22: Aboriginal Beat Conference, Thunder Bay, ON Federation of Indian Friendship Centres / OFNTSC Ontario First Nations Technical Services November 23: Ipperwash Inquiry Part 2 Session, Mnjikaning First Nation Corporation / ROJ Restoration of Jurisdiction / BOD UOI Board of Directors / MNR Ontario A letter is being sent to Minister Ministry of Natural Resources / ON Government of Ontario / NFN Nipissing First Nation / GIFN David Ramsay, and a discussion was November 24: Southeast Region Chiefs Meeting, Pikwakanagan First Nation November 23: Ipperwash Inquiry Part 2 Session, Toronto ON Chippewas of Georgina Island / SAG Sagamok Anishnawbek / JDRF Juvenile Diabetes scheduled to take place on October Research Foundation / ATT Attorney General of Ontario / ROSA Santa Rose First Peoples November 25-27: Canadian Aboriginal Festival, Toronto, ON Community / NC National Chief / TBD To Be Determined / CC Conference Call 25 at a meeting with the Minister December 1: Regional Investment Management Board, Toronto, ON and Premier Dalton McGuinty. Page 18 Anishinabek News November 2005 Restoration of Jurisdiction Anishinabek Nation Governance AIP approval process continues, talks expanding, comprehensive negotiations begin

By ROJ Staff In early October, an informa- Governance R. Martin Bayer unemployment levels, health and binding in any way at this phase, Grand Council Chief John tion package on the final version underlined the Grand Council housing conditions, education suc- but is simply an opportunity for Beaucage, the Anishinabek Nation of the “Governance AIP” was sent Chief’s appeal to First Nation cess rates and the adequacy of Anishinabek communities to look negotiators, Merle Pegahmagabow to all Anishinabek Nation Chiefs leaders to act now on the gover- proper water and sewer infrastruc- at one alternative to the Indian and R. Martin Bayer, and the and Councillors with the excep- nance sector. “I would like to echo ture. Act. Only a Final Agreement that Restoration of Jurisdiction Project tion of six First Nations that had the words of many who attended a The Governance AIP also sets it is voted on by the people will be Manager, Jamie Restoule, are in already sent in a Band Council recent gathering of Chiefs and out what will be negotiated in the legally binding. the process of developing a strate- Resolution (BCR) in support of Councils in Sault Ste. Marie: final agreement stage of these Have you booked your gy to expand the mandate to com- the Governance AIP and in sup- ‘We’ve been simply talking about negotiations: Anishinabek law Governance AIP Presentation? prehensive self-government nego- port of continuing negotiations self-government and alternatives making powers in the areas of Please call Adrienne Pelletier tiations. Preliminary discussions toward a final agreement. to the Indian Act for far too long leadership selection, citizenship, at 1-877-702-5200 ext. 2335 to with Indian Affairs representatives In his covering letter, Grand now, well over 30 years, it’s time language and culture and the man- schedule your presentation. If you have taken place in this regard, as Council Chief John Beaucage to get on with it.’ With these agement and operation of our gov- have not already confirmed a pres- directed by Grand Council wrote, “At our Chiefs and Council remarks in mind, I would like to ernments. Also anticipated is the entation on the Governance AIP, Resolution 2005/09. Gathering in September 2005 par- present a summary of the possibility of negotiating addition- please call to schedule as soon as In the meantime, the ticipants said that First Nations Anishinabek Nation Agreement- al law making powers in the possible. Anishinabek Nation Agreement- have discussed these issues long in-Principle With Respect to future, including social services, Governance AIP presentations in-Principle With Respect to enough and we must take action Governance to your Council and health, lands and natural resource scheduled for November were: Governance (“Governance AIP”) now. I am suggesting that we con- to any community members that management and housing, to name Nov. 1: Fort William First Nation approval process and the educa- sider approving the Governance might be interested in coming out a few. Chapter 16 of the Chief and Council tion negotiations towards a final AIP as a means to move ahead on to the meeting,” Bayer said. Governance AIP speaks to these Nov. 2: Sand Point First Nation agreement are continuing, as per some core governance issues Bayer’s presentation focuses additional jurisdictions. A final Chief and Council the revised Grand Council man- while we work at revising the self- on how the Governance AIP can agreement on Governance will Nov. 3: Lake Helen First Nation date to build on the current negoti- government negotiations frame- help to create stronger and more also establish the recognition of Chief & Council ations process to include all areas work.” effective governance structures our First Nation and Anishinabek Nov. 4: Biinjitiwabik Zaaging of jurisdiction in the Anishinabek In his letter introducing the that will ultimately help improve Nation governments by Canada, Chief and Council Nation – Canada self-government information package, Anishinabek the quality of life for Anishinabek other governments and businesses. Nov. 30:Whitefish Lake Chief and talks. Nation Chief Negotiator on as measured by indicators such as The Governance AIP is not Council Education Working Group members seeking greater citizen input on proposed system

By Michael Eshkawkogan overall development process. and Mary Laronde During November 2005 to The Education Working January 2006 community-based Group (EWG), consisting of presentations and regional work- representatives of Anishinabek shops will occur to get citizen First Nations with a commit- input for the proposed ment to Anishinaabe education, Anishinabek Education System. are implementing a citizen par- These presentations and work- ticipation strategy as part of the shops will build toward a large overall development process to conference to be held by the end build the Anishinabek Education of March 2006 where the final System (AES). draft of the proposed Since the 1972 “Indian con- Anishinabek Education System trol over Indian education” poli- will be presented for considera- cy statement by the National tion by Anishinabek citizens. Indian Brotherhood (NIB), Presentation teams of Education Working Members representing First Nations that have approved the education agreement-in-princi- many initiatives and develop- Education Working Group ple have spent the last several weeks fine-tuning the proposed Anishinabek Education System model. ments have been undertaken to Members and Restoration of Community presentations and regional workshops will be held from November 2005 to January 2006 to get greater grassroots input on the proposed model. (L. to r. Craig Hardy (Fort William), Rachel Taggart (Red Rock move us closer to realizing our Jurisdiction Community Indian Band), Michael Eshkawkogan and Henry Lewis (both from Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve) are own education system. The Facilitators are being assembled shown at a recent planning meeting in Bawating. – Photo by Mary Laronde negotiation process between according to geographic regions. Canada and Anishinabek First The teams will schedule and are open to all Anishinabek First Exercise of Education standards) between the provin- Nations with respect to the exer- coordinate two-hour presenta- Nation members. Jurisdiction and its implementa- cial system and the AES; the cise of jurisdiction over educa- tions in the 28 Participating First The presentations will fea- tion will also be covered. proposed AES will improve or tion is the current means to that Nations that have approved the ture in-depth discussion of the The main concerns that address the issue of Anishinaabe end. Education Agreement-in- details of the proposed Anishinabek citizens have Language & Culture retention; The EWG citizen participa- Principle (AIP). Also regional Anishinabek Education System, expressed are that: the new system will avoid dupli- tion strategy expands on the col- workshops will be held in highlighting its mission and the education standards of cation of a “top heavy adminis- laborative planning phase under- Thunder Bay, Sudbury and vision, governance model and the proposed AES will be “com- trative system” (grassroots con- taken by the EWG members Toronto. The regional work- operations, programs and servic- parable” (as good as or higher) trol and most of the money goes themselves over the last several shops are primarily for “non- es delivery and funding issues. to the provincial system; the pro- to the student in the school); and years and may well be the major participating First Nations” as Updated information on the final posed system will allow for the new system will offer bet- direction-setting phase of the well as off-reserve members but Agreement with Respect to the “transferability” (recognized ter/more/sufficient funds. November 2005 Anishinabek News Page 19 Restoration of Jurisdiction Anishinabek Education System

Do you care about Anishinaabe education?

The Education Working Group is offering Community Presentations and Regional Workshops on the proposed Anishinabek Education System

Who should attend?

Elders, Parents, Community leaders, Teachers, First Nations staff, Students...

Community-based presentations are being scheduled now by your Community Facilitator and Education Working Group representative. The proposed Anishinabek Education System has and the administration of education programs and four elements. First and foremost are the First Nation services. Each LEA will appoint 2 persons to the Regional Workshops are as follows: Governments (FNGs) that will exercise jurisdiction. RSC. The RSCs will meet quarterly to coordinate the First Nations will develop Constitutions in order to collaboration and sharing of resources among LEAs Thunder Bay Indian Friendship Centre exercise jurisdiction and pass Education Laws. and First Nations in an effort to address issues of November 23, 2005 From this starting point, each of the other three mutual concern within its region and bring issues of elements of the system may receive a delegation of system wide importance forward to the KEB. N’Swakamok Friendship Centre (Sudbury) certain aspects of the First Nation's authority. Each RSC selects one representative to the KEB. December 7, 2005 However, the FNGs remain ultimately liable to its cit- It is proposed that the KEB will be the flow through izens for education. for First Nation education funding and will have four Native Canadian Centre of Toronto The 3 elements are: local education authorities departments: Finance, Language and Culture, January 11, 2006 (LEAs), regional school councils (RSCs) shown by Curriculum, and Assessment. Generally, the KEB's each Bear Paw and the Kinomaadswin Education responsibilities include administering and distributing For more information contact Dave Sahawana, Body (KEB), the collective representing all 7 RSCs money from Canada to the FNGs; advocating on Education Working Group Coordinator and LEAs. behalf of FNGs to address educational issues; and 1-877-702-5200 toll-free The LEAs Report to FNGs on financial matters assist FNGs in the delivery of programs and services. Following ancient traditions in modern times a challenge for drafters of Anishinabek constitution By Mike Restoule traditional Clan System must be ernment that we will establish. rather voices of the Clans. All community to a different area as A big binder chock-full of entrenched into our Nation’s As in ancient times, no one decisions are arrived at by a way need dictated. research materials and constitution. The task of articu- person has authority over anoth- of reaching consensus that is Our job today is to ensure Anishinabek community consul- lating that ancient system into er in such a government. In the uniquely Anishinabek. This those traditional methods of gov- tation results is the starting point modern concepts while still method of dealing with issues ernance are reflected in our gov- for development of the maintaining its original spirit and can be described as follows: I ernment’s constitution in a man- Anishinabek Nation purpose is indeed a challenge. agree, I do not agree but I ner that is acceptable to every- Constitution. The information collected won’t stand in the way, and one. No one person has a right to Included are items such as the through the various con- I am standing in the way. impose a government on anyone. History of the Anishinabek ferences and consulta- The process of allow- As directed by the Nation, summaries of the yearly tion sessions held ing debate among cit- Anishinaabe Anokiiwin community consultation results, over the recent years izens in this manner Aanokiitoojig (Chiefs a description of the Clan System sends a clear mes- on matters that Committee on Governance), a of Government, the Anishinabek sage that our his- affect them is an committee of Restoration of Nation Declaration of 1980, the torical and cultural ancient custom. Jurisdiction staff searches the report from the Vision Day held traditions must be Voting was unnat- materials and comes up with in Kettle and Stony Point First included in our ural. The clan wording that describes, in consti- Nation in June 2005, and com- constitution. system therefore tutional form, what the ments submitted by participants Each of the offers assurance to Anishinaabe people have said at the All Chiefs and Councils groupings in the all that if they wish they want in their constitution. Gathering in Sault Ste Marie in Clan System model to speak, their voices This is then tabled with the September this year as well as has a proposed, defin- will be heard in their Chiefs’ Committee for review. input from all conferences held itive role in the opera- government. The process to develop the under the Restoration of tion of our nation’s gov- Customary also for Anishinabek Nation constitution Jurisdiction banner over the last ernment. For example, peo- Anishinabek is the reliance is unconditional, unrestricted and seven years. This wealth of infor- ple have said that the Deer on the Chiefs for their wisdom open to definition. mation from community mem- (Hoof) Clan is the reconcilers in dealing with matters that were If you have any comments, con- bers shows the way the and pursuers of well-being and not day-to-day issues. cerns or suggestions as to what Anishinabek people want their the Bear Clan is the guardians Anishinabek tradition, each has Historically, these were either should be reflected in the constitution designed. and helpers of the people. Our an equal voice in dealing with external matters such as relation- Anishinabek Nation Constitution, For example, Anishinabe direction is to reflect these tradi- the issues before government. ships with other nations or inter- please contact me at (705) 497-9127 people have indicated that our tional responsibilities in the gov- The Chiefs are not rulers, but nal matters such as relocating the or email [email protected]. Page 20 Anishinabek News November 2005

Poiier Communications First Nation Governance 10.25” x 14.25” (This size does not fit our paper -- too long. Our maximum is 13.75”)

I have spoke to Skip (Mon. Nov.7) who will advise Bernie to adjust the size. - Deb November 2005 Anishinabek News Page 21 Intergovernmental Affairs In Brief Chippewas of the Thames claim resolved Reminder: Comment on OTTAWA – The Indian Canada, the First Nation asked settling the claim. She adds that ommends that Canada and First the Great Lakes Water Claims Commission (ICC) the ICC to conduct an inquiry in “The parties are to be commend- Nations look at ways to mini- Quality Agreement! issued its report on the successful August 1998. ed for their foresight in address- mize the time it takes to finalize Residents of the Great settlement of a specific claim by Following a thorough review ing communications and ratifica- settlements once agreement is Lakes states and provinces the Chippewas of the Thames of the research materials and tion issues from the beginning of reached: “Both parties would have a chance to guarantee the First Nation that goes back 150 completion of a joint research the negotiations. Keeping band benefit if settlement could be long-term protection and sound management of our years. The report deals with the project chaired by the ICC, members informed of the issue concluded more expeditiously.” Great Lakes water, ensuring mediation of the First Nation’s Canada changed its and progress of the The Indian Claims that these treasures are protect- Clench Defalcation claim, which position and accept- negotiations and Commission was established in ed for generations to come. was settled for $15million in ed the claim for doing the laborious 1991. Its mandate is: to inquire, Let your government know compensation. negotiation in work necessary to at the request of a First Nation, that you demand a strong and The Chippewas of the June 2001. As a ensure that all into specific land claims that effective Water Quality Thames First Nation is located at result, it was not contact informa- have been rejected by the federal Agreement. Background infor- mation, discussion papers and Muncey, Ontario, about 30 km necessary to sub- tion is up to date government, or accepted claims letter writing tips at: southwest of London. It numbers ject the claim to is essential in where the First Nation disputes www.greatlakesforever.org/ht 2,232 members, of whom 821 the full inquiry making the ratifica- the compensation criteria being ml/waterqualityagreement.htm live on reserve. The claim process. Negotiations tion process run as considered in negotiations; and l. The governments will involves money owed to the First began in November 2001 smoothly as possible.” to provide mediation services at receive your submission in Nation from the sale of lands sur- with the ICC acting as a neutral Noting that 24 months passed the request of the parties for full, in the format in which it rendered in 1834, money that facilitator at the request of the between the time an offer was claims in negotiation. Since was submitted. Deadline for submissions: was misappropriated by an offi- two parties. made to and accepted by the 1991, the ICC has completed 65 Midnight, November cer of the Indian Department, In her report, Chief Chippewas of the Thames First inquiries and contributed media- Joseph B. Clench. When the First Commissioner, Renée Dupuis, Nation, to the time funds were tion services in 42 claims Our Staff Nation’s claim was rejected by gives the parties full credit for finally transferred, the report rec- processes. Allan Dokis Director Employment Opportunity [email protected] TRAPPER’S (10-Month Contract) Jason Laronde Resource Management Council INFORMATION Forestry Unit Office Assistant Coordinator Location - Union of Ontario Indians Head Office, Nipissing First Nation, North Bay, ON [email protected] Under the supervision of the Forestry Coordinator, the Forestry Unit Office Assistant will be responsible for the 2005-2006 administrative planning, scheduling and information management support to the Forestry Coordinator in day- Alicia McLeod to-day activities. In addition, the Forestry Unit Office Assistant will develop and maintain a strong working Treaty Research Assistant The Fur Harvesters Auction Inc. relationship with other Intergovernmental Affairs Department personnel. [email protected] sales schedule is below along with Develops and maintains good working relationships with all First Nations, governments, agencies, associations Sandra Restoule information on how to contact and associates of the Union of Ontario Indians. This position will also have the following responsibilities. Treaty Research Clerk them. If you have access to the Major Responsibilities: [email protected] Internet visit their website, it has – Support Forestry Coordinator with all aspects of communication/coordination for Forestry Unit affairs with information on previous sales, fore- respect to correspondence, scheduling and reporting Nadine Roach casts for this year along with edu- – Support the coordination of the Anishinabek Forest Strategy process with support from Forestry Forestry Coordinator Coordinator and Technician [email protected] cational material. – Attend meetings and workshops and transcribe minutes and discussion notes. – Routing and review of correspondence for Forestry Unit Robert Morriseau FHA is pleased to announce our – Records management as required Forestry Technician Auction Schedule for the 2005- – Meeting and travel arrangements for Forestry Unit staff in addition to supporting IGA’s overall [email protected] 2006 season: administrative mandate Yves Chenier – Liaise within the UOI Intergovernmental Affairs department and administration department Policy Analyst Last Receiving Sale Date – Coordinate and schedule working group meetings [email protected] Date Qualifications: – Solid working knowledge of Anishinabek Nation Kerry Colnar DEC 3, 2005 DEC 17, 2005 – Must possess valid Ontario driver's license and be insurable Operations Support Officer JAN 14, 2006 FEB 20, 2006 – Available to travel extensively and subject to irregular working hours [email protected] – Requires knowledge ordinarily acquired through an Undergraduate or Graduate Degree Program or related (in conjunction with field plus several years of work experience OR an equivalent combination of education and work experi- American Legend) ence Website APRIL 15, 2006 MAY 9, 2006 – Strong interpersonal skills to interact with diverse groups of individuals; able to maintain effective work relationships and negotiate acceptance of recommendations MAY 20, 2006 JUNE 10, 2006 – Demonstrated ability to organize and present complex data clearly and accurately – Demonstrated experience in identifying, defining and resolving management and systems problems – Familiarity with Microsoft office applications (Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, Internet Explorer, and Mark your calendars now! Access) sustainabledevelopmentinstitute.org/ FHA’s 15th Annual Accountability: The Sustainable Development Institute Trapper’s Convention – This position has direct program accountability to the Intergovernmental Affairs Director with general (SDI) is dedicated to examining sustain- March 31 & April 1, 2006 supervision by Forestry Coordinator ability issues and applying them to the – Works within policy parameters and administrative guidelines Menominee model of sustainable devel- Position Category: Administrative Support opment. This Web Site is devoted to Our fall hours are: Position Salary: Commensurate with experience and education explorations of questions like, what is Monday to Thursday: Closing Date: December 2, 2005 sustainable development? 8:00 am to 4:00 pm Please send a covering letter along with your resume and 3 employment references to: Answers are offered through multimedia Friday: Closed presentations, essays, and conversa- Glenda St. Amour, Director of Operations, Union of Ontario Indians, P.O. Box 711, Nipissing First Nation, tions on the Menominee, their Forest, North Bay, ON P1B 8J8 Website: www.furharvesters.com Phone: (705) 497-9127 / 1-877-702-5200 Fax: (705) 497-9135 Email: [email protected] and their spirit. Email: [email protected] Please enter our virtual environment and Telephone: (705) 495-4688 Individuals of Aboriginal ancestry are encouraged to apply. Preference will be given to Union of Ontario help us look at ways to sustain our Indians member First Nation applicants. Fax: (705) 495-3099 nation, forest and spirit. Miigwetch to all who apply; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Page 22 Anishinabek News November 2005 Chief Toulouse gave official greet- ings, led an official gift exchange, negotiated and signed a Collaboration Agreement with the First Peoples of Trinidad. Deputy Grand Chief Nelson Toulouse appeared on three National television networks, Cable News Channel TV-3, Caribbean Communications TV-6, and “Guyelle Network” TV-7. He was also featured prominently in the press through Trinidad Express, Globe News, and the Mirror (week- ly). Travel Costs? As per our documented commit- ment to maximize our resources and maintain fiscal accountability, we include an aspect of finding the nec- essary financial resources to support our travel expenditures. In this case, the Trinidad and Tobago gov- ernment, through their Ministry of Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs funded our exchange to support the Amerindian Deputy Grand Chief Nelson Toulouse with Chief Ricardo Bharath-Hernandez and Carib Queen of Trinidad & Tobago sign the international collaboration agreement at the Amerindian Heritage Day in Arima, Trinidad on October 14. Heritage Day in Arima, Trinidad. Time at the Beach or at the Ricardo Bharath-Hernandez and the What is in the Collaboration Golf Course? Santa Rose Carib Community, to Agreement? Official business filled our meet the Canadian High This agreement, signed by entire schedule from Monday, Commissioner, negotiate a collabo- Deputy Grand Chief Toulouse and October 10 (a Canadian statutory ration agreement, attend the Chief Bharath-Hernendez, set in holiday, Thanksgiving) to Friday, MISSION Amerindian Heritage Day, make a place a collaboration agreement October 14. Our commitments to cultural presentation, and provide between the Union of Ontario the Santa Rosa Carib Community, diplomatic and political support to Indians and the Santa Rosa First Government of Trinidad and TO TRINIDAD the First Peoples of Trinidad. Peoples’ Community to develop a Tobago, and the Canadian High What was the political value of supportive and collaborative agree- Commission dominated our agenda. this exchange? ment to protect the rights of, and With the exception of an official The attendance of Deputy improve the quality of life of our visit to Banwari Trace, a 9,000 year Grand Chief Nelson Toulouse on peoples. It would address the fol- old archeology site, and Maracas this mission signaled to the lowing: land issues, self-determina- Beach in northern Trinidad during Governments of both Canada and tion, human rights and social jus- our final Saturday downtime, there Trinidad and Tobago that indige- tice, economic opportunities, health was not much downtime for neces- nous issues and recognition of and social issues, and relationships sary rest, much less relaxation or indigenous rights is on the agenda with our respective Nation-States recreation. for both countries. and other indigenous Nations and Deputy Grand Chief Nelson In his official keynote address, the right to cultural sovereignty. A Toulouse did bring his golf clubs attended by several Senior trade and cultural exchange would but there was no opportunity to use Government officials and delega- be explored. The agreement was them. Air Canada decided to lose tions from at least six Caribbean witnessed by the Carib Queen of them en route. countries, Deputy Grand Chief Trinidad and Tobago, the Minister Toulouse said: “I urge the of Public Utilities and the Government of Canada, the Environment. Government of Trinidad and How much work was done? Deputy Grand Chief Nelson Toulouse joins Chief Ricardo Bharath- Tobago, and State Governments There were a lot of early morn- Hernandez and two Elders in a "Smoke Ceremony" traditional to the Arima around the world to work in cooper- ings and late evenings working in Indians. ation with your respective T&T’s diplomatic, media and polit- Indigenous peoples. On the cusp of ical circles. Appointments and Diplomatic Mission to Trinidad: the Organization of American States media opportunities in the capital annual General Assembly, I ask that city of Port of Spain, Trinidad, Frequently-asked questions the Pan-American Government meant that our day would begin at examine the state of their about 5 a.m. By Bob Goulais rights and social justice to the glob- Indigenous populations. Poverty Deputy Grand Chief Toulouse Anishinabek Nation al village. Originally, Grand and economic development must be delivered a keynote address and Political Office Council Chief John Beaucage had addressed. Health and social indi- participated in an Indigenous panel. Being a politician in Indian accepted to attend this very special cators must improved. The loss of Our delegation was featured at a Falcon Skye Mcleod-Shabogesic Country demands a certain level of event. However, due to an intensive Indigenous languages in the news conference, and a symposium Nipissing First Nation rep opens a expectation of accountability and lobbying effort in Ottawa – John Americas is frightening and must be at the National Library. special ceremony in his own transparency. First Nations Chiefs, chose to remain in Canada while addressed.” On Amerindian Heritage Day, Anishinabie language at the Anishinabek citizens, Government, Deputy Grand Chief Nelson Deputy Grand Chief had oppor- our delegation was on the road to National Library of Trinidad where and even other First Nations organ- Toulouse represented First Nations tunity to meet no fewer than three Arima before 6 a.m. and did not historical books and artifacts of the izations have their eye on our Grand on the international relations file. Cabinet Ministers, including the return to our hotel until nearly 11 indigenous peoples of Arima were Council Chief and Deputy Grand In the interest of accountability, Minister of Community p.m. On that day, Deputy Grand introduced and put on display. Chief. This is especially true when there are a number of questions to Development and Cultural Affairs, it comes to travel expenditures, answer about our diplomatic mis- Minister of Public Utilities and the budgets and representation on cer- sion. Environment, and the Minister of tain sensitive issues. What were the goals of this Transport. This was certainly the case diplomatic mission? Our delegation was hosted at the when the Anishinabek Nation was We had developed a number of residence of the Canadian High invited by the First Peoples of goals for this diplomatic mission. Commission Mr. Howard Strauss, Trinidad and Tobago to attend their First was to have our delegation only the second official delegation Amerindian Heritage Day in Arima, registered with the Department of that he has hosted at his residence. Trinidad on October 14. Foreign Affairs and the Canadian We were able to present him with Grand Council Chief was given High Commission to Trinidad and our goals for this mission and send the International Relations portfolio Tobago. Secondly, was to seek a message to our government that for the Chiefs of Ontario and has funding for this trip. The practical we want Canada to support further Canadian High Commissioner in Trinidad & Tobago Mr. Howard Strauss committed to addressing our abo- goals for the exchange were to exchanges and opportunities devel- welcomes Chief Ricardo Bharath-Hernandez and Bob Goulais Executive riginal and treaty rights, human develop a relationship with Chief oped therein. Assistant to the Grand Council Chief to his residence for a working dinner. November 2005 Anishinabek News Page 23 MISSION TO TRINIDAD

Deputy Chief Nelson Toulouse talks to the Carib Queen just before the march to the park. that had recently been discovered. Plans are now in the works for the Amerindian people to also take back those special places where their ancestors now sleep.

The Anishinabek Nation will continue to nurture the new ties with the Amerindian Nation in Indigenous Peoples from North, South and Central America joined in the "March to the Park,” organized by the Amerindians of Trinadad & Tobago and the hopes that positive growth will find Anishinabek delegation. The march through streets of Arima done with song and the sound of drums brought people out to join the parade of pride. A spe- its way out of the darkness on both cial "Smoke Ceremony" was also done in the morning to ask for a good day just prior to the march. This ritual is very similiar to the Anishinabek Sunrise sides of the world we share. Ceremony. future years the Amerindian people will no longer ask to use their own Anishinabek help celebrate heritage land . . . they will simply take it back. ARIMA – A delegation of winds and rain off the Caribbean Anishinabek representatives has Ocean swirled around him. “We are In an address at the park, Chief returned from the Carib community indigenous brothers and sisters” Ricardo Bharath-Hernandez of Trinidad and Tobago where they said the Deputy Grand Chief, “We addressed other historic issues that were invited by Amerindian Chief share the same history and tradition- must be dealt with for his people to Ricardo Bharath-Hernandez to help al values and must continue to fos- re-claim themselves. “We call upon celebrate Amerindian Heritage Day ter positive change together.” the people of conscience in the in the town of Arima. Roman Catholic Hierarchy to per- The Amerindian Heritage Day suade the Pope to formally revoke The trip and celebrations were started in the late morning and last- the Inter-Cetera Bill of May 4, funded by Senator Joan Yuille ed until the early hours of Sunday 1493, which will restore our funda- Williams, Minister of Community morning. Parang music, folk, mental human rights,” said Chief Development Culture and Gender calypso, steel-pan, chuntey dancing, Bharath-Hernandez. “That Papal Affairs. From October 9-17 the Spanish dance and poetry reading document called for our Nations Anishinabek group attended cele- from Trinidad poet laureate Pearl and Peoples to be subjugated so the Chief Ricardo Bharath-Hernandez is joined by his worship Mayor Nancis brations, opened special events, Eintou Springer filled the air for the Christian empire and it's doctrines Eustace of Arima at the park that was taken back by the Amerindian People. conducted media interviews, devel- late afternoon and evening as huge would be propagated.” The Mayor praised the work that Chief Ricardo has done not only with his oped relations with the indigenous numbers of people came to enjoy people but with the city of Arima. The media swarmed the two as they leadership of Arima, met with the festivities. North American The final day of the visit ended addressed the crowd who had marched and gathered at the park in front of national and local politicians and Indian groups from the Anishinabek with a visit to a sacred burial ground the local Catholic Church. shared Anishinabek culture. and Seminole Nations provided tra- Included in the Anishinabek group ditional song and dance from the was Deputy Grand Chief Nelson northern hemisphere of the Toulouse, Chief of Staff Bob Indigenous world. An International Goulais, Nipissing First Nation Collaboration Agreement was also (NFN) Youth Representative Falcon signed between the Anishinabek Skye McLeod-Shabogesic and Nation and the Amerindian Nation. Artist/Journalist/Cultural Resource This agreement will forge ties Person Perry McLeod-Shabogesic. between the two nations and pro- vide a beginning to look at sharing The highlight of the visit was the each other's experiences and assis- Amerindian Heritage Celebrations tance. on Saturday, October 14, marking the fifth anniversary of the event. In the morning prior to the event The Carib community was joined a march was planned to take back a by overseas delegations of indige- park that was denied to the nous peoples from North America, Amerindian peoples of Trinidad and Latin America and the Caribbean. Tobago by the Catholic Church. This gala cultural performance The church had been given the land brought down the curtains on the in trust for the local Indigenous peo- celebrations. The Anishinabek ples. After some planning between group conducted the opening cere- the Amerindian and Anishinabek In a special traditional ceremony at the National Library and Information System Authority Chief Ricardo Bharath- monies with speeches from various groups it was decided that a “taking Hernandez lead a group from the local Carib community in a traditional song. He prayed to his ancestors for for- leaders taking up the first part of the back” of the park from the church giveness and strength to guide them on this journey of re-discovery his people have been on. Tears flowed from day. Deputy Grand Chief Nelson was necessary to re-empower the his face as he spoke to his grandfathers and grandmothers from a time long ago. Toulouse delivered the featured Carib community and give notice to address with a stirring speech as the the church that next year and in Story and photos by PERRY McLEOD-SSHABOGESIC Page 24 Anishinabek News November 2005 Mno-bmaadziwin/Health FASD staff training 100 police officers By Laurie McLeod-Shabogesic ual behavior and recidivism. The Union of Ontario Indians During the specialized train- FASD Program was teaming up ing, officers and other justice work- with the RCMP and Norwest ers will be guided through the legal For the next year, will be the host community for this Diabetes Wampum Belt designed Health to conduct specialized train- process ranging from legal rights, by Kahnawake Mohawk Nation Elder Joe Jacobs. – Photo by Rosalind Raby ing for 100 police officers Nov. 14- arrest, interviews, investigations 15 in Thunder Bay. and statement considerations. In Fetal Alcohol Spectrum addition, a wide range of judicial Diabetes belt ‘living’ in Mississauga Disorder (FASD) is caused by alco- issues will be discussed including By Rosalind Raby People used wampum to estab- In Maliseet, it is known as wapap hol consumption during pregnancy diminished capacity, Criminal ESPANOLA – First Nations lish political relations among First (WAHB-ahb), literally ‘white and is the leading cause of prevent- Code regulations, Provincial able birth defects and mental retar- Statutes, case law and the Youth from across the North Shore will be Nations; to establish and maintain string,’ referring to the white beads. dation. Criminal Justice Act, as they relat- making special pilgrimages to family relationships and make mar- The diabetes belt is purple and Unfortunately, over 60% of ed to FASD and other special needs Mississauga First Nation (near riage proposals; to show that people white, bead colours sacred to those affected by this disorder will clients. Blind River) over the next year to had positions of importance within Mohawks. come into contact with the legal For more details on FASD honour a sacred belt. a First Nation; to perform spiritual Sometimes beads were made system and over 50% of affected training opportunities, contact Mississauga First Nation is host ceremonies and to make treaties and with bone from various sacred ani- individuals will be incarcerated. Laurie McLeod-Shabogesic, FASD to a special Wampum Belt, which agreements with Europeans. mals and stones, which are believed Without proper understanding and Program Coordinator , arrived last Friday. The word wampum comes from to contain spirits sacred to First supports, FASD leads to high rates Union of Ontario Indians Last year, Kahnawake Mohawk the eastern Algonquian languages. Nations people. of victimization, inappropriate sex- Tel: (705) 497-9127 ext. 2296 Nation Elder Joe Jacobs, designer of four special Wampum Belts, came to the community to speak to delegates at a diabetes conference. He talked about the importance of promises. “Diabetes is reaching epidemic proportions among Aboriginal peo- Noojmowin Teg Noojmowin Teg ples, especially our young,” says Jacobs. Health Centre Health Centre “The Creator told me to create special Wampum Belts that signify the promise to do all we can for the Seven Generations and the children who are our future.” The belt was transported from 4” x 9” 4” x 9” Kettle and Stoney Point First Nation (near Sarnia) last week. While the volunteers had hoped to bring it across Lake Huron by the traditional means of using a canoe, MFN health promotions worker and organizer Perry Joe Boyer, said it was too dangerous to do so once they arrived at Tobermory on the Bruce Peninsula. “The waves were four metres (nearly 13 feet) high,” recalls Boyer. “We took it on the Chi Cheemaun (which means Big Canoe in Ojibwa) ferry instead, but kept it in constant motion, walking several kilometres on the deck of the big boat.” The contingent was met by First Nation members in South Baymouth, including several run- ners from Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve. Pipe ceremonies were held along the way. The belt made its way north, always carried by a runner, walker or cyclist. At Mississauga First Nation it was greeted with a special ceremo- ny. Wampum is considered sacred to First Nations and belts are treated with great respect because the mes- sages they carry are of great impor- tance, even today. This particular Wampum Belt features a Mohawk word, 25 letters long, woven along its length. The lettering is a European influence using Anglicized letters, rather than the old symbols depicted on earlier Wampum. The word ‘Teiakonekwenhsatsikhetare’ trans- lates to “our blood is sweet.” November 2005 Anishinabek News Page 25 Mno-bmaadziwin/Health Political leaders join health planners By Tony Jocko DEERHURST – He came. He saw. He listened. Grand Council Chief John Beaucage played an active role in a strategic planning retreat for members of the Union of Ontario Indians board of directors and Anishinabek Health Commission. The Oct. 25-26 forum at the Deerhurst Resort near Huntsville – called Planning For Results 2005-2010 – was the first joint planning exercise of its kind, and involved over 40 participants. Fresh from an emergency meeting with Ontario premier Dalton McGuinty, Grand Council Chief Beaucage updated the gathering on the premier’s pledge to support Kashewchewan First Nation in dealing with a polluted community water supply. Leona Nahwegahbow and Joe Miskokomon facilitated the Deerhurst sessions, and Elders Martin Assinewe, Deborah Pegahmagabow, director of the Union of Ontario Indians Health Merle Assance-Beedie, and Gordon Waindubence, were on hand with the Eagle Staff to add the traditional spiri- Unit, leads discussion for a breakout group during October’s strategic tual guidance to the proceedings. Each day began with a sunrise ceremony and opening prayer. The Elders planning retreat for UOI board members and the Anishinabek Health reminded all participants of the individual paths that they must follow in their quest to find their true identity and Commission. place within the clan circle. The message was well received and set the tone of co-operation and mutual respect that marked the two-day conference. The active participation of the Grand Chief and Deputy Grand Chief Nelson Toulouse, Wikwemikong Chief Robert Corbiere, and Fort William First Nation Chief Peter Collins, brought welcome political support to the retreat’s discussions. The talks dealt with such emerging issues as the Nov. 25 First Ministers Meeting in Kelowna that will focus on First Nations health issues. Such proposals from the federal and provincial governments as the Aboriginal Health Blueprint and the Local Health Integration (LHINS), if implemented would have major impacts on all First Nations communities. The flu pandemic was also seen as a major threat to the well being of the First Nations population. The Anishinabek Health Commission offered its co-operation and assistance in all efforts to lessen the effect of such an outbreak in the First Nations communities. The defining of the role and mandate of the Anishinabek Health Commission was also seen as a major issue. The conference served as a historic starting point for improved communication among all the groups repre- sented. It also served to reinforce the need to move the identified health strategies into the annual UOI organiza- tional workplans. Such a move will add credence to the necessary political arguments to be brought forward as the First Nations move towards self-government. Noojmowin Teg Health Centre

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Elders lead tobacco strategy – The Aboriginal Tobacco Strategy Working Group hopes to revitalize their approach. Elders Archie Cheechoo, Ernie Benedict, Roland St.Germaine and Chris George were invited to a planning session to ensure that the cultural competency of the plan was intact and to recognize and honour the role of our Elders and traditional tobacco. "Now is the time to come out with the real story, now is the time to tell the real story of the tradition that tobacco has,” said Mohawk Elder Ernie Benedict, of Akwesasne. A Seven Generations Planning process will include prevention, promotion, treatment, and supportive care, while observ- ing spiritual, cultural, and environmental issues. Community-based projects will represent a "grassroots approach" to the strategy, designed to cope with smoking rates in Aboriginal communities more than double Canadian averages. Committee members include Melanie Goodchild, Perry McLeod-Shabogesic, Carol Burke, Janet Gordon, Monique Raymond, Esther McKay, Craig Abotossaway, Glenn Forrest, Betsy Mandamin and Diane Richmond. Aboriginal Tobacco Strategy staff who attended the retreat were: Joey Fox, Emerance Baker and Pamela Johnson. – Photo by Perry McLeod-Shabogesic

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6” x 4” Page 26 Anishinabek News November 2005 Mno-bmaadziwin/Health Chiefs asked to support community pandemic plans REGINA (CP) – An influenza pandemic could have a issue. We are quite concerned that without a plan in place preparedness happens on the ground. devastating impact on Aboriginal communities where res- we are not being responsible to our membership.” Health Canada is providing financial and technical idents live in overcrowded and substandard housing, says Erasmus said there is currently no plan for aboriginal com- support for planning and preparedness to First Nations and Bill Erasmus, Assembly of First Nations Regional Chief munities. Inuit communities through regional offices, said Health for the . “It is scary,” he said. “When the forest fires ravaged Canada spokesman Paul Duchesne. “The poverty that we find on reserves and the living B.C. a couple of summers ago the federal government had In 2005-06, a total of $4.71 million has been commit- conditions make us more susceptible, I think,” he said. a plan to a certain degree for communities, the province ted – $1.09 million of which is for the development of “We also have a huge young population, and usually those did and some of the municipalities, but the reserves didn’t. national and regional-level plans and First Nations and people are affected first, along with the elderly and the ill.” We were just lucky no one was seriously injured or killed.” Inuit Health Branch capacity and $2.98 million to support The assembly has put a proposal forward to work Dr. Kim Barker, a public health adviser to the assem- community planning and preparedness activities. together with the federal, territorial, provincial and munic- bly, said it is important Chiefs take a leadership role in “While some progress toward preparedness for First ipal governments on a co-ordinated pandemic response their communities by providing individuals developing Nations and Inuit communities has been made, a lot of plan. “We want to be responsible and deal with this whole pandemic plans with the support they need to ensure that work still needs to be done,” Duchesne said.

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10” x 10.25” November 2005 Anishinabek News Page 27 Mno-bmaadziwin/Health Childrens’ book deals with HIV SQUAMISH, B.C.– HIV awareness and prevention Mamuk, the Aboriginal HIV/STI education program of is the theme of The Gathering Tree, a new children’s the BC Centre for Disease Control, which hosted the book launched by Chee Mamuk, the Aboriginal HIV launch, and Theytus Books of Penticton. education program of the British Columbia Centre for “What I really liked about the book is that it has a Disease Control, an agency of the Provincial Health really good story,” says Stephanie Wood, age 11. “I love Services Authority. it when you can read something and Author Larry Loyie and co-author Constance Brissenden, left, celebrate The Gathering Tree is a new and up- learn at the same time. That’s one of the launch of The Gathering Tree, a unique new children's book about to-date resource for schools and commu- the things that makes reading fun!” HIV with a First Nations storyline. Chee Mamuk Aboriginal HIV/STI pro- nities featuring the gently told story of a Key messages in the book include gram educator Melanie Rivers and program manager Lucy Barney of First Nations family, as well as study the facts that HIV is completely pre- the B.C. Centre for Disease Control, worked closely with the authors. material for students, teachers and health ventable, and that, at this point, there is educators. no cure. Education into prevention “The number of people with HIV is begins with children learning to make rising in Aboriginal communities,” noted healthy choices. “It’s good to learn Chief Lea George, Chief of Tseil wa tuth more about HIV so you can make sure Band (Burrard) and co-chair of the First Nations you know how to prevent it, so it doesn’t happen to Summit. “More children will have family members liv- you,” says 12-year-old Dylan Hughes. “I really liked the ing with HIV and may have questions and concerns. fact that one of the characters is a boy just like me.” A This is a culturally appropriate resource that encourages First Nations setting of The Gathering Tree gives a spe- children to ask questions and learn about HIV preven- cial quality to the book that children from all cultural tion. It is a story that supports understanding of children backgrounds will enjoy, combining traditional First and families that are affected by HIV/AIDS.” Nations ways of doing things with information about Local students as well as representatives of the HIV. Aboriginal and HIV/AIDS community joined award- The Gathering Tree includes study material for winning First Nations author Larry Loyie and co-author teachers, parents, health educators and students. “We Constance Brissenden at the Squamish Nation’s wanted to take a proactive approach with kids on this Recreation Centre to celebrate the book’s completion. subject,” says Melanie Rivers, Educator with the Chee The 48-page book, illustrated by award-winning artist Mamuk program. “A lot of these kids have heard of Noojmowin Teg Heather D. Holmlund, is a co-publication of Chee HIV but that’s where their knowledge ends.” Health Centre

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INDIAN IMAGES Rabbit and Bear Paws The Chief Operating Officer of Lakota Canada has issued the following response to concerns expressed about his firm's television advertising campaign depicting people being crowned with a tradi- tional headdress as a result of using Lakota linament. Dear Mr. Switzer, I am sorry that our television commercial has offended you. Lakota Canada is in no way trying to exploit or demean First Nations people; in fact it is quite the opposite. At Lakota Canada, we have a deep admiration for Native people, and a history of respecting Native tradition and culture. The Lakota brand was founded by entrepreneur Rick Stewart, a Canadian Metis of Cree heritage, and strong supporter of Native Canadian and Native American culture. Stewart originally estab- lished Lakota brand health prod- ucts, along with the marketing concept, as a way to honour Native Canadians and Native Americans for their contribution to modern medicine. Mr. Stewart understood that Native people have some very special traditional medicine to share. Dan McLeod

er turns cold and your families get into the spirit. And then there’s the shopping. You find yourself hunting Anishinabek Crossword #7 for the perfect present for every friend, family member, close co- such as a town worker and even some strangers 47. stream whose names somehow show up on 48. valorous, valiant, intrepid, daring what started out as a short shopping 49. a cloth made from animal hair list. Before the Big Day even arrives by pressing, heating, or treating ASK HOLLY you’ve spent a massive amount of the hair with chemicals. 50. gracefulness, elegance money on household expenses like BY HOLLY BRODHAGEN DOWN hydro for the Christmas lights and 1. a waterproof overshoe that rotating Santa, Christmas cards, dona- protects shoes from water or Look for gifts tions to charities and the billion other snow things that seem to leave our wallets 3. agreement between First Nations that cost time, empty. and the Crown Now I’m no Scrooge. I adore 5. create, generate, raise, rear, holidays. They remind me of all the nurture but not money 7. short, transitory, transient, good times of the past and give me temporary The season is upon us! Yes, ladies hope for the future. But I have come 8. cruise, sailing and gentlemen it is Holiday Time. to realize in the past few years that I 9. ___ Shadow Dancers It is the time of year when we are am worrying too much about spend- 10. active, lively, energetic bombarded with holiday after holiday ing money for shopping and decorat- 13. ___ Aningmiuq, singer that takes money out of our pockets. It ing and not enough about spending 14. a place people live who travel in seems no sooner we pay off last time with family and friends. order to persuade others to join their religion year’s holiday debt than we start up So this year I issue a challenge to 15. cold, coldness again. myself and all the others out there 16. dried and powdered meat, that Thanksgiving kicks off the festive who want to return to the good times has been mixed with an equal season. What a wonderful time to of family festivities without the finan- amount of animal fat visit with family and friends over a cial headaches: share suggestions 18. small cylindrical beads made beautiful turkey dinner. Problem is with your friends, family, neighbours from polished shells and fashioned into strings or belts you have to travel, which means pay- and co-workers about homemade ACROSS 22. small boat usually made of birch ing for gas or you have visitors, which gifts or gifts that take time but not 19. joyful, jolly 2. satisfy bark used for traveling on lakes 20. Potato Country means groceries and other last-minute money. If you aren’t crafty but you 4. appreciative, thankful and rivers 22. A once-large Native nation that shopping. have been creative enough to give 6. remarkable, extraordinary 23. treasure lived in what is now northern Then comes Halloween. This can true gifts from the hearts, share them. 7. explosion, outburst 25. bountiful, unselfish, charitable Saskatchewan and Manitoba be an inexpensive night, but try telling How about children’s gifts that are 11. older 28. person of mixed French or 24. heavenly 12. protection of something valuable Scottish western Canadian fur 26. people who live in the north of your children they can’t go out as the fun for longer then the battery’s lifes- 17. the act of someone who fishes as trader heritage and aboriginal newest cartoon character, but instead pan? Or the perfect gift for an aging Canada and Greenland a diversion heritage 27. obligation have to make their own costume. couple that seem to have everything? 18. type of marmot, and are also 30. revere, respect Funny coupons or gag gifts that make 29. somebody who is disloyal or Those store-bought costumes have known as groundhogs 33. a trip, usually a lengthy one treacherous become increasingly expensive and your friends smile? 21. a region defined by generally 35. territorial capital and the largest 31. the pole star children just aren’t as excited to go Just think of all the joy that comes similar weather conditions community Nunavut 32. ceremonial exchange of gifts out as hobos or ghosts anymore. from knowing that you will not spend 36. not serious or profound 34. a distant relation in someone's the next 12 months paying off your 37. people who live in the north of family And what about YOUR get-up? Canada and Greenland You have that Halloween party to get extravagant Christmas giving and that 41. formerly known as Eskimo Point 38. something that brings or confers 42. pay, salary, earnings ready for and your genie costume your family and friends have felt that admiration, praise, honor, or from five years ago just won’t zip up. your heart instead of your wallet was 43. an act or instance of pursuing fame and killing wild animals Then there is the cost of all those behind your giving spirit. 39. sympathetic, cordial, friendly, 45. a large, standing body of fresh or supermarket treats and outdoor deco- Let’s teach our children the true kindly salt water that is surrounded on rations, which really start the cash meaning of Christmas! 40. wide, extensive, all sides by land register chiming. vast, spacious 44. Tanya Tagaq ____, The pumpkins are still warm Holly Brodhagen, Dokis First Prize for Puzzle the throat singer of All completed crosswords sent to us when the Yuletide Season arrives. Nation, welcomes suggestions or choice for Icelandic questions for future articles. If you by Nov. 30th will be entered into a Unlike the other holidays, musician Bjork – draw for a Miniature Digital Camera Christmas is not a one-time shot. have anything you want to talk about (pictured) courtesy of Anishinabek Nation There are many parties to attend, dec- please contact Holly at the OCTOBER SOLUTION 46. well-defined area, 7th Generation Charities. orating and entertaining as the weath- Anishinabek News.