Volume 36 Number 2 February 2019
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Attention Métis students: BBMA deadline is March 31 by John Copley If you are a serious student of Metis ancestry who needs financial assistance in order to complete your education, now is the time to submit your online application for a Belcourt Brosseau Metis Award (BBMA); the deadline is March 31. “Applications must be in on or before March 31,” explained BBMA Communications Coordinator, Theresa Majeran. “We are expecting a large number of applications again this year so it would be a good idea to get yours in as soon as possible.” To qualify for an award BBMA applicants must be an Alberta Métis (any age), have a financial need that prevents them from attaining a post-secondary education on their own and have a connection to their Métis community. Applicants are evaluated on a number of criteria, including but not limited to: likelihood of improved opportunities through education, connection to their Métis community, financial need, and personal circumstances. Two current references are also required. BBMA awards are to be utilized during the applicant’s current school year for tuition and fees. Established in 2001 at the Edmonton Community Foundation (ECF) offices by then-directors of the Canative Housing Corporation, Orval Belcourt, Dr. Herb Belcourt and Georges R. Brosseau Q.C., the BBMA initiative has given out more than 1800 awards to Métis students attending more than 200 different post-secondary programs throughout Alberta and beyond. In all, more than $7.2 million in awards have been granted. “Awards,” explained Georges Brosseau, “can be as little as $1,000 and as high as $10,000 or more. Recipients are selected on an individual basis; awards are not based on marks alone. We look at the overall individual and anyone can qualify, providing they meet the criteria of the Awards
Panel, which is made up by Métis people. Sometimes an individual is selected because we see that he or she has struggled through difficult times but remains BBMA Award recipients Taneiya Mahe and Ramsey Mudryk dedicated to achieving both an education and a has four main goals: “helping students connect with their successful life. People aren’t refused because they don’t culture and each other as alumni; providing a sense of have high marks; we base our decisions on the whole identity to enhance success rates in both educational person and are very cognizant that they sometimes don’t endeavours and subsequent careers; offering our sponsors have opportunities. We try to provide the opportunity that the opportunity to network and engage with recipients for many of our young students need – what they do with it future employment opportunities and encouraging will determine their future.” corporate Alberta to become more involved.” The annual awards, he added, were created “to uplift our Other objectives include “showcasing success stories people so they can succeed in the world; to do this they within the Métis community and increasing awareness of need to be educated. Education is the key to success and the BBMA program among potential applicants and therefore we are pushing as hard as we can to give out as sponsors and through honouring the educational many awards as we can each year.” achievements of Métis students on their journey” to Majeran says the BBMA Awards initiative continues to participate in Alberta’s growing economy. meet its four goals and its objectives, which include “Thanks to the ongoing support of our many partners,” “helping students connect with their culture and each other noted Majeran, “Alberta’s Métis students are breaking as alumni; providing a sense of identity to enhance success new ground and setting new precedents as they achieve rates in both educational endeavours and subsequent their educational goals and move into the next phase of careers; offering our sponsors the opportunity to network life. Many of our graduates have become leaders in their and engage with recipients for future employment communities and their province. BBMA awards recipients opportunities and encouraging Corporate Alberta to have gone on to become doctors, lawyers, nurses, become more involved.” engineers, veterinarians, and much more. Our graduates Other objectives include “showcasing success stories are also getting the recognition they deserve from many of within the Métis community and increasing awareness of our sponsor organizations, who not only hire them but also the BBMA among potential applicants and sponsors and continue to support this worthy initiative.” through honouring the educational achievements of Métis Graduates and awards recipients often comment on their students in their journey to be part of Alberta’s strong educational pursuits and their awards experiences, as did economic future.” 2018 recipient, Ramsey Mudryk. As the event grows so does the need for every more Mudryk is enrolled at the Emergency Services volunteers. “We have been very fortunate and do have a Academy where he is going to be studying to become a number of very dedicated volunteers who come out to Primary Care Paramedic, a career field that he decided to support us each year, but we are always interested in pursue when he was a volunteer at the Elk Point Fire hearing from others who would like to participate,” Department. concluded Majeran. “I am from a small town in east central Alberta and The BBMA’s annual banquet and awards ceremony is growing up I had little knowledge of my Metis heritage the highlight of the year for the organization. This year the and little exposure to Metis culture. My family is like BBMA gala will take place at the Edmonton Inn and many others that chose not to fully embrace their Metis Conference Centre on Kingsway Avenue beginning at heritage for generations in order to avoid discrimination 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, September 21. and persecution. I didn’t start learning much about Metis The annual BBMA awards ceremony, noted Majeran, history until it started being discussed in social studies in junior high. Since then, being Metis has become an integral part of my identity. Over time I continue to learn more about our history and about what it means to be Continued on page 13
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February, 2019
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Volume 36, Number 2, February 2019 ISSN #08294135 www.albertanativenews.com EDITOR: Deborah Shatz ADVERTISING: Dan Moser 780-421-7966 Alberta Native News is published monthly for distribution to Native Bands and Metis Settlements across Alberta, Saskatchewan, British Columbia and Northwest Territories. All rights reserved. No part of this newspaper may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. The opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the Editor. Alberta Native News is published by 320754 Alberta Ltd. For change of address, please send both old and new addresses. We welcome your stories, pictures, artwork and opinions. Please send anything you would like to have published to our office.
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Housing director puts people first by Dale Ladouceur When first meeting have helped me learn about people and their challenges, Marilyn Gladue it is easy their successes and the variety and difference of our to see why she has people.” excelled for so long in an Marilyn exudes passion when she speaks about helping industry that sees high house our people. It’s obvious from listening to her speak turnover rates averaging that she fervently wants them to succeed. Her enthusiasm only 3.5 years. Marilyn and belief in them often ignites a belief in themselves, greets you warmly but “and sometimes that’s all a person needs, to believe that with an air of experience they can do it. That they can accomplish anything.” earned. Her deep alto It sometimes isn’t easy; guiding people through to a voice is welcoming and more positive outlook of their future. Doing so requires resonates with years of experience, understanding and patience in how to respect Marilyn Gladue difficult decisions and someone’s growth process. “Often, my job is dealing with hard truths. Marilyn has been the Director of Housing for a difficult tenant. I sometimes have to make the decision Edmonton and Rural North for Metis Urban Housing whether their tenancy is going to continue or whether it is Corporation for over ten years but has worked on the front going to end. That is the most difficult aspect of my duties. lines of housing our Indigenous people for over a quarter The other ten percent of my role is what makes me stay: century. hearing those success stories of people moving on to Sitting in her modest office, Marilyn reflects back on the bigger and better things. The hugs, the tears, the early beginnings of her history with Metis Urban Housing appreciation when they have been given the opportunity to and the families’ lives she has directly impacted. “My first succeed. That’s what’s kept me here this whole time; that’s role was as Tenant Relations Officer but after a year I all it takes.” applied for what was then called an Internal Control Marilyn proceeds to draw from a seemingly endless Clerk.” collection of tenant success stories. “Seeing the families Describing the humble beginnings of this fledgling, grow…the little ones now graduating and choosing a Indigenous-owned business with their first office space career; that fills my heart. I’ve seen positive changes in only slightly larger than her current office, Marilyn waxes even the most difficult situations – really positive nostalgic of those formative years. “The Internal Control changes!” Clerk position monitored the rural branches. All the Those changes emanate from the larger picture that paperwork; lease renewals, rent changes, working with the Indigenous people have unique needs. Those serving rural staff etc. was done by myself and just one other gal. Aboriginal communities must understand where they Just the two of us split the whole portfolio for a few years. come from in order to help them survive and thrive. I then applied for the Branch Manager position, where I Throughout her history in the housing industry, Marilyn stayed from 1998 to present day” (with the title of Director has helped many thrive because she is from their added in 2017). communities, knows their stories and remembers their As Marilyn spoke, her phone and email notifications faces. She also has a thorough understanding of the chimed constantly, and she kept one eye on those impacts of an affordable housing shortage. “The lack of messages while remaining present for my questions. I affordable housing in this province is the biggest housing asked her how she managed to not burn out, staying so issue facing us. (When a person outside of the Indigenous long in such a demanding role. She explained the community), talks about subsidized housing, there needs inspiration for her resiliency. “Well, my first thought is; I to be a different view of it. We’re not giving needy families love, love working with people. For as long as I can a hand-out, we’re giving them a hand-up.” remember, a lot of my jobs in my early years had always If you want to learn more about Metis Housing’s been as a service provider. I was working in restaurants, programs and services, or to fill out an application for with the public all the time. I was always on the front end subsidized or affordable housing, go to of (connecting) with the public and I treasure those www.metishousing.ca or call 1-877-458-8684. experiences. I treasure my experiences today because they
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February, 2019
Alberta Native News
Language Revitalization pole will stand at UVic In recognition of the UN 2019 International Year of Indigenous Languages, which officially launched last month in Paris, the First Nations Education Foundation (FNEF) has announced the commissioning of a Language Revitalization Pole to draw attention to the importance of Indigenous language and culture in Canada. The Language Revitalization Pole will be by renowned Nuu-chah-nulth carver Tim Paul – part of the Hesquiaht Tribe of the Nuu-chah-nulth Nations – and has received the patronage of the Canadian Commission for UNESCO. The pole will be carved from an ancient cedar, fallen in Huu-ay-aht territory during a windstorm 50 to 70 years ago and weighing as much as a humpback whale. When it is completed, the Language Revitalization Pole will be gifted to the University of Victoria where it will stand, with the blessing and support of the Esquimalt and Songhees First Nations, in recognition of the University’s leadership in Language Revitalization and Indigenous Studies. “We’re honoured that UVic was chosen as the permanent host of the Language Revitalization Pole,” stated UVic President Jamie Cassels. “It will stand as a powerful reminder of our need to embrace the truth of our country’s history, to fulfill our commitments to reconciliation and to meet the challenges that lie ahead, especially with respect to Indigenous language revitalization. The pole will also be a living acknowledgement of the traditional territories of the Songhees and Esquimalt First Nations, the land upon which UVic stands.” The stories and themes carver Tim Paul has selected to be featured on the pole honour ten relatives of the Nuu-chah-nulth people: sky, sun, moon, mountains, rivers, lakes, land, sea, wind, and stars. There is also an eleventh relative that will be depicted on the pole: earthquake, which is sent to teach humility and remind human beings of the allencompassing power of the Creator. “Oral history, songs, dances, ceremony, and art were – and continue to be – the vehicle for transmitting history, knowledge, and sovereign rights from generation to generation,” said Tim Paul. “Through storytelling we are also reminded of our family ties to neighbouring tribes and Nations. When we use our language, it is not just another way of saying something; the principles of our culture are embedded in the language and many words simply cannot be translated. It is only by understanding our language that we can unlock the most important values, principles, and concepts of who we are.” Les Doiron, the volunteer chief executive officer of FNEF and elected President of the Yuułuʔiłʔath Government (the Ucluelet First Nation), says carving the Language Revitalization Pole will not only bring attention to the threats facing Indigenous languages, but will also create content for the innovative language revitalization pilot project currently underway in the Yuułuʔiłʔath community where the Barkley dialect of the Nuu-chah-nulth language is at imminent risk of becoming extinct: At present there are fewer than seven Elder fluent speakers from the Ucluelet First Nation who still speak this dialect. “This pole will not only raise awareness of the threats facing Indigenous languages in Canada and around the world, it will also draw attention to the urgent need to advance reconciliation and healing by supporting Indigenous peoples and communities in their efforts to preserve and promote their languages and cultures through innovative solutions,” said Doiron. As carving begins, documentary cameras led by filmmaker Dale Devost will follow the entire process – with the footage to be used later in education tool kits for distribution to the 11,000 UNESCO Associated Schools Network (ASPnet) in over 180 countries and as content for language lessons on the FNEF platform. Fundraising efforts are currently underway to support the pole project and the Ucluelet First Nation Nuu-chah-nulth, Barkley dialect, language revitalization pilot project. The estimated cost of the Indigenous Language Revitalization Pole and pilot project is pegged at $1 million, with a project budget breakdown of $150,000 for carving (students, guest carvers, tools, location costs), $100,000 for logistics (tree, transportation, staging, raising, etc.), $650,000 to complete the Nuu-chah-nulth Language Preservation Pilot Project and expand it to include the other 13 Nuu-chah-nulth nations, communities, and dialects, and $100,000 for a documentary, ceremony, and promotion. In addition to the patronage of the Canadian Commission for UNESCO, the project has received support from the Huu-ay-aht First Nations, Western Forest Products, the University of Victoria, the Royal BC Museum, BC Chamber of Commerce, Museum of Vancouver, RBC, Teck, Intefor, AME, TimberWest, and several other organizations and individuals and First Nations. In Canada, there are approximately 60 Indigenous languages, each with unique dialects, histories, and cultural traditions. Alarmingly, almost three-quarters of these languages are at risk of being lost within this generation. If these languages become extinct, Indigenous nations risk losing their cultural identities forever.
(l-r) The renowned Nuu-chah-nulth artist, Master Carver Tim Paul, and Edward Johnson Jr., program manager for Huu-ay-aht First Nations, with the windthrown tree in Huu-ay-aht territory on Jan. 23, 2019. Photo credit: Dale Devost.
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Alberta Native News
February, 2019
Art Gallery of Alberta presents Boarder X (Edmonton, AB) – Boarder X is currently on exhibit at the Art Gallery of Alberta until May 19, 2019. It features work by Indigenous artists that use snowboarding, skateboarding and surfing to demonstrate knowledge and relationships to the land. The exhibit reveals how culture, art and board intersect. In this context, board culture works to examine contested spaces, political borders, hybrid identities and traditional territories. The artwork reflects cultural, political, environmental and social perspectives related to the landscapes and territories we occupy. These boarding lifestyles share synergies with Indigeneity, connected by an appreciation for the land and water. The multidisciplinary exhibit features an exceptional collection of thematic art that is a must see for visitors of all ages and walks of life – especially those who appreciate a boarder lifestyle. Featured Indigenous artists all have a strong connection to the boarding culture including Jordan Bennett, Bracken Hanuse Corlett, Roger Crait, Meagan Musseau, Meghann O'Brien, Les Ramsay, Micheal Langan (in collaboration with Kent Monkman), Steven Davies, Mark Igloliorte, Les Ramsay and Amanda Strong. Boarder X has been organized and circulated by the Winnipeg Art Gallery, curated by Jaimie Isaac. Isaac is the curator of Indigenous and contemporary art at the Winnipeg Art Gallery, an interdisciplinary artist and member of Sagkeeng in Treaty 1 territory. She holds a degree in Art History and a Masters of Arts from the University of British Columbia. Recent exhibitions include Woven Together at Kelowna Art Gallery, Behind Closed Doors, Insurgence Resurgence (co-curated with Julie Nagam), Vernon Ah Kee: cantchant, Boarder X (touring), We Are On Treaty Land, and Quiyuktchigaewin; Making Good for the Winnipeg Art Gallery. Isaac co-founded of The Ephemerals Collective which was long-listed for the 2017 Sobey Art Award. She has snowboarded for 20 + years. The Art Gallery of Alberta is offering a number of special events for viewers who are interested in gaining a
deeper learning about the exhibit. On February 21, the AGA will host an Art for Lunch event in connection with Boarder X. The event will be held from 12:10 to 12:50 and a skilled gallery attendant will provide an insightful perspective on the exhibit and then explore the core themes while viewing the art. Beautiful Losers will be screened on February 28, 2019 at 7 pm as the Film A fabulous preview party was held at the AGA for the opening of Boarder X. Night event in connection with the Boarder X items and jewelry that are associated with their many exhibit. The 90 minute film celebrates the spirit behind exhibits, including SkateBetty, a new eco-friendly line one of the most influential cultural moments of a they recently brought in to celebrate the Boarder X generation. In the early 1990's a loose-knit group of exhibition. likeminded outsiders found common ground at a little When you are looking for pieces to add to your jewelry NYC storefront gallery. Rooted in the DIY (do-it-yourself) collection or to give as a gift, you want something that subcultures of skateboarding, surf, punk, hip hop & stands out. SkateBetty creates lovely jewelry out of old graffiti, they made art that reflected the lifestyles they led. and donated skateboards and a portion of proceeds are Developing their craft with almost no influence from the given to local music festivals, art galleries and youth "establishment" art world, this group, and the subcultures skateboarding programs. Their designs blend art and they sprang from, have now become a movement that has sustainability, which gives each piece its own unique been transforming pop culture. persona. This documentary by Aaron Rose and Joshua Leonard Environmentally friendly and recycled products are features interviews with Thomas Campbell, Shepard trending these days, and it's incredible to see how talented Fairey, Jo Jackson, Chris Johanson, Margaret Kilgallen, designers can transform old treasures from days gone by. Harmony Korine and others. For more information about Boarder X and the other Hello, My Name is Art will be held in connection to the exciting exhibits at the Art Gallery of Alberta visit Boarder X exhibit on March 28 from 7 to 8 pm. It is a youraga.ca. program focused on close looking and collaborative The Art Gallery of Alberta is located in the heart of the learning. Spend time getting to know the artwork in an Arts District in downtown Edmonton, connecting the hour-long introductory session with AGA staff. Learn how gallery and the community, welcoming visitors to to improve your looking skills and what questions to ask experience art first hand. It is a world-class centre for the of any artwork and of yourself. presentation of regional, national and international art, The AGA gift shop has education and scholarship. The 85,000 sq. foot building, an extensive selection of which opened in 2010, is itself a work of art that solidifies unique and beautiful gift Alberta’s Capital as a world-class city.
February, 2019
Alberta Native News
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Spirit North empowers and inspires youth by John Copley When athlete and former international cross-country skiing competitor, Rebecca (Beckie) Scott, joined Spirit North in 2009, the idea was to introduce Indigenous youth to cross-country skiing and the fundamental joy of movement. Today, after taking over the leadership of the organization in 2017, that Spirit North initiative remains intact as the organization continues in its commitment to improve the health and well-being of Indigenous youth through the transformative power of cross-country skiing, sport and play. “Our community-led programs get participants on skis to empower them with physical activity and lifelong wellness,” explained the three-time Olympian. “Crosscountry skiing and land-based activities inspires meaningful change and, most importantly, connects youth to their own strength and potential. Today we are working in more than 50 Indigenous communities across Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Manitoba, and reach more than 8000 youth every year. An afternoon on skis can give youth a glimpse of their own potential. It builds skills and helps them to learn and grow. Sport provides physical, mental and social connections that can inspire meaningful, lifelong change.” Thanks to the generous sponsors who support the initiative, Spirit North programs are free for the communities they work in. “When we first started this program, we began with four participating communities," noted Scott. “Today, Spirit North works in more than four dozen Indigenous communities. The number of Indigenous youths coming out to participate has more than doubled since 2015.” When she first began working with the Spirit North program, Scott visited several northern Alberta communities and was saddened by some of the things she saw, especially the severe disparity of activities and opportunities for youth living in a rural setting. “I was really moved by the Truth and Reconciliation Report published in 2015 and I just felt that I had reached my potential through the power of sport. I know the power
of sport and what it can do for people and I think that every kid should have the opportunity to benefit from it - or at least to have the opportunity to take part in sport and activity. I wasn’t seeing a lot of that in the Indigenous communities, so this program was about creating an opportunity for improved health and Spirit North Program Director Beckie Scott is introducing cross country skiing to wellness.” Indigenous youth and promoting wellness through physical activity. Most of programs are run out of the communities participating in the Spirit September. “As long as there’s snow on the ground we are out North program; others are held at nearby nordic centres. skiing with the youth in the communities,” assured Scott, “Each community is different, so we tailor the programs who said the season usually winds up sometime between according to what is and is not available. For instance in late March and mid-April, depending on the weather some remote or northern communities there are no patterns and snowfall. recognized ski areas so we cut paths through the Good mental and physical health is very important but schoolyard and through nearby land and it works well. it’s not Spirit North’s only goal. Some of the communities we are working with in northern “We also believe that sport is advantageous when it B.C. are close to actual nordic centres so we are able to comes to academic achievement,” she noted. “I know that utilize them for skiing.” school attendance is up when Spirit North is there,” she The program provides equipment, coaches and chuckled. “We have heard comments from the schools that volunteers; funding comes via the generous support of kids who participate in the program are coming back to the corporate sponsors and through a grant from Indigenous classroom with more confidence, focus and self-esteem. Services Canada. That they’re ready to try new challenges and are inspired Volunteers are always welcome to inquire about how by their experiences. We also hear that attendance goes up they can participate in the program. and behaviour issues go down during program delivery “We love our volunteers and take applications all year dates. I think we all inherently know that it’s a good thing round; we get good feedback from them and many come for kids to be active outside and that the benefits are not back to participate year after year.” just physical.” Spirit North’s 2018 season is a little more than half over Continued on page 13 so if you apply and don’t get aboard this year, the application will be kept for the 2019 season, which could be as early as late
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Alberta Native News
February, 2019
Red Deer Museum shines a light on Canada’s Métis by John Copley When the Red Deer Museum + Art Gallery (RDMAG) introduced the arrival of its latest major exhibition: Hiding in Plain Sight: Discovering the Métis Nation in the Archival Records of Library and Archives Canada, it marked the culmination of nearly a year and a half of communicating, planning and organizing to bring this unique opportunity to the region. “The exhibition,” explained the museum’s Exhibition Coordinator, Kim Verrier, “was actually developed by Library and Archives Canada, with support from the Government of Canada and in collaboration with the Manitoba Metis Federation and the Métis National Council. Hiding in Plain Sight is a travelling exhibition; there’s a great deal to see and learn, and we encourage anyone who hasn’t yet visited this unique collection, listened to the stories or viewed the pictures of the past and the present, to come and enjoy this adventure.” The exhibition opened its doors in Red Deer, AB on December 15, 2018. On January 20, 2019 the museum held “a wonderful celebration of culture,” a theme that will be expounded on during Family Day celebrations on February 18, 2019. Initially scheduled to close on March
10, the exhibition has been granted an extra week at RDMAG and will now close on March 17, 2019. This exhibition explores the portrayal of the Métis people - some of whom are On Jan. 20, a wonderful celebration of Metis culture was held at the Red Deer “hiding in plain sight” - in Museum + Art Gallery. 'Hiding in Plain Sight' has now been extended until reproductions of artworks March 17. and photographic collections, and in the accomexhibition.” panying archival descriptions. The exhibition aims to Métis Local 492 president Raye St. Denys said she is foster a better understanding of the history and culture of “very excited by this exhibit; I think it is a great beginning the Métis Nation. to increase the awareness of Métis Nation, its history and “The story of the Métis people in Central Alberta is one contributions in Central Alberta.” of the keystones of our history,” assured RDMAG “When we learned that Hiding in Plain Sight would be Executive Director, Lorna Johnson, who said the travelling to Red Deer, it was an exciting time,” noted “exhibition presents a great opportunity to explore Métis Verrier. “One of the things we did was hold several culture and history across Canada, and to place our own community conversations and we asked our local Métis history into that larger context. We are very grateful to the community what they would like see in the exhibit. We members of Central Alberta’s Métis community who have work closely with Métis liaison Carmen Houle; her input helped us assemble local stories to supplement the touring has been valuable and is greatly appreciated. Another person who has been instrumental in bringing this program to fruition is Métis Nation Local 492 President, Raye St. Denys.” As a result, the exhibition highlights numerous local Metis artifacts and tells the stories of Métis community members whose families have lived in the region for centuries and those who moved here in more recent years. The stories are delivered on panels and include artifacts associated with the Métis. An interactive area allows visitors to participate and learn. “We do have one local gentleman who has helped us put together about a dozen words relevant to Métis culture,” noted Verrier. “Interactive participants will get to see and hear the words in three distinct languages: English, French and Michif. It’s a great opportunity to participate and learn.” Local schools are also participating. “We’ve had schools coming in, we had a home-school program and kids coming in to create still-life drawings of Métis clothing and symbols, including items such as a violin, a fiddle, a Capote and Métis family sashes,” she explained. “Our Family Day event will be a celebration of Métis culture - where Dan and Laura Allard, a local Métis family who we met during our community sessions, will come out and teach us how to jig. Carmen will be telling Continued on page 11
February, 2019
Alberta Native News
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Hometown Hockey is coming to Enoch by John Copley A year ago the Enoch Cree Nation 440 Juniors came from behind to tie the score 3-3, before winning in overtime and becoming the first ever all-Indigenous hockey team to win gold in the annual Edmonton Minor Hockey Week competition. In doing so the team set a new precedent and marked another milestone for amateur hockey, the team, the Enoch Cree community and for the Edmonton and area region in which they play. After the final medal presentations had been made Enoch’s count had risen to two gold and three silver. “These were great moments and ones that brought much pride to the team, the community and to everyone involved in our hockey program,” smiled Enoch Cree Hockey Association (ECHA) president, Jordan Courtepatte, in a recent interview about the growth of the association and the community’s upcoming participation in the Rogers Hometown Hockey segment of SportsNet’s Hockey Night in Canada. Dormant for more than three decades, community hockey at Enoch took a step forward in 2015 when a group of community members, including Recreation Director Courtepatte, were successful in re-establishing the Enoch Cree Hockey Association. The process wasn’t easy, noted Courtepatte, and took about a year to complete but it has been a success story and hockey continues to get bigger in the community each year. “As the Rec. Director,” he explained, “I heard from a growing number of kids who wanted to play hockey but parental support and transportation to the arenas in the city were barriers for the kids to play organized hockey; in order to qualify for equipment, you must be enrolled in an organized sport. Two years on the job and I realized that there were too many kids who wanted to play, who deserved to play, but who couldn’t. I wanted to reestablish the hockey association to help ensure that every kid has a chance to participate; I had backing from some community members and in the end, we saw the re-birth of the association.”
So far this year, Enoch has won one gold medal; championship play will soon get underway. “Hockey in the community has come a long way in the last four In Dec. 2018, the Enoch female midget team hosted an exhibition game against a years and our teams get a team from Harbin China. lot of support when they’re on the ice; the parents and “Everything is coming together,” noted Courtepatte. grandparents and friends and family get the opportunity to "We are going to have an opening ceremony, probably on see their kids participating, growing and establishing new the Friday night (March 22) that will include a few friendships.” speakers, traditional singers and dancers. We are hoping to The Enoch Cree will be part of another memorable have the Chiefs from Maskwacis, as well as others from milestone (March 21-23) when the Enoch Community Treaty 6, join us and participate in the Grand Entry. We’d Centre plays host to the ECHA Initiation Jamboree, a 14- like this to be a positive and memorable event and team, fun-filled hockey tournament for kids aged 4-6 hopefully one with good weather. The tournament will be years. The deadline for registration has already passed but inside but many of the activities will take place outside.” registration will be possible as long as there’s room. Courtepatte said the interest and support from SportsNet “We’re working on a first-come first-served basis but so and Hometown Hockey “has been really positive; they are far it looks like we’ll have at least ten First Nation teams going to tell our story. They’ve been doing research on us participating,” explained Courtepatte. “We just want to and we’ve provided them with a bunch of information introduce the younger kids to sports and particularly to about our hockey program - how it got started and where hockey and that’s why we chose to go with this age group. it is today. They’ve been very helpful and in fact are There are no winners and no losers; everyone gets a prize.” providing a grant, which I have just applied for, that will A day after the Initiation Tournament draws to a close, be utilized for youth sports programs.” the community and its hockey program will make a little Though the invitational tournament ends on March 23, history of their own when Enoch becomes the first Courtepatte said the main event will actually take place on Indigenous community hockey team featured on Roger’s the Sunday, before, during and after the Hometown Hometown Hockey. The salute will come during the Hockey segment featuring Enoch hockey. Montreal/Carolina NHL hockey game, which begins at “We like to encourage everyone to stick around and join 4:30 p.m. local time on Sunday, March 24. Hometown us on Sunday,” he emphasized. “We held the tournament Hockey is hosted by SportsNet personalities Ron on the days we did because we wanted everyone to be able MacLean and Tara Slone, who travel to 24 different to participate in all the activities that we have planned for communities across Canada to celebrate local hockey the 24th.” stories and heroes. Enoch is the last of five Alberta The plan is to have, among other things, live bands, communities to participate this year. raffle draws, a silent auction and entertainment for the Program development for the events is still underway. Continued on page 12
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Alberta Native News
February, 2019
Teck Resources to share insights at Forward Summit Forward Summit, the gathering of Indigenous and industry leaders dedicated to economic reconciliation, has just announced that Teck Resources will present at the inaugural event taking place in Calgary Feb. 26-28, 2019. Teck Resources, Canada’s largest diversified resources company, will be at the table to participate in various discussions related to their Frontier Project which is currently being reviewed by a joint federal-provincial review panel. Over the last several years devoted to their Frontier Project, Teck has blazed a trail of partnerships and agreements with the Indigenous communities that neighbour the proposed mining area in Northern Alberta. The result is a shift leading to more open communication and acceptance between industry and Indigenous nations on industry led projects, as well as socio-economic, ecological, workforce and major financial implications. The participation of Teck Resources at Forward Summit includes a dedicated panel session and roundtables highlighting their innovative approaches to economics, partnerships and environmental sustainability. Teck’s conversations include both industry and Indigenous perspectives on how and why this unique and collaborative approach to large-scale projects has seen early success. Attendees will hear from such innovators as Heather
Lawrence, Manager Indigenous Affairs Teck Resources; Bill Loutitt, CEO McMurray Metis; Melody Lepine, Director Government & Industry Relations, Mikisew Cree First Nation; and Dr. Robin Johnstone, General Manager, Community & Indigenous Affairs, Teck Resources. Delegates at Forward Summit will attend “Building Sustainable Relationships - The Frontier Project” panel session on day two of the three-day Summit with the opportunity to participate in the Q&A that follows. Register now at forwardsummit.com to hear from Teck Resources and other thought-leaders on economic and workforce opportunities with Indigenous communities at Forward Summit. Forward Summit has also partnered with Lynx Indigenous Career Connection to present Indigenous Students Career Day taking place on February 27th at Calgary TELUS Convention Centre. While hundreds of Indigenous and industry leaders from across Canada meet at the convention centre for Forward Summit, a few rooms over, Indigenous students and alumni from across Alberta will network with recruiters to build successful careers of their own. Part of creating pathways to employment is providing channels for organizations to connect with the future talent in Canada. Lynx Indigenous Career Connection offers
Dreamspeakers celebrates 25 years The 2019 Dreamspeakers International Film Festival will be held from April 26 to May 7, 2019 at the Metro Cinema at Garneau Theatre in Edmonton. It is sure to be a very special 12 days of screening outstanding films while celebrating the festival’s 25th anniversary. The deadline for entries is February 28, 2019. There are no category restrictions. Each work is juried solely on its own merits. The Festival seeks any combination of
inventive, incisive, bold, vital and otherwise provocative work of any genre. Dreamspeakers presents awards each year in the following categories: International Short , Canadian Short, Animation, International Feature, Canadian Feature, Feature Score, Gil Cardinal Memorial Best Documentary and Emerging Filmmaker. The goal of the festival has remained the same for the past 25 years, which is to connect in a meaningful
career opportunities with companies who are seeking skilled individuals for co-ops, internships, full-time or summer employment and posts around 800 jobs annually with no fee for students to participate. Attendees at the career fair will network with employers and hear from successful, Indigenous community members like Denise Pothier, VP of Indigenous Relations at Stantec Consulting. Denise will share her journey to becoming an engineer and why education was critical to her success. The Indigenous career day is an important component of Forward Summit. Indigenous students and alumni are invited to register for free to attend Indigenous Students Career Day at forwardsummit.ca. Business leaders, community members and HR professionals who are interested in the three-day Forward Summit can visit forwardsummit.ca to learn more about the important conversations scheduled to take place.
way, to learn how to be more impactful to the needs of artists and the greater community. The Festival organizers meet this goal by honouring the original vision of the Dreamspeakers founders to be a resource for Indigenous filmmakers, for directors, scriptwriters, cameramen, technicians, actors, musicians, storytellers, artists and craftspeople. They create more opportunities for Indigenous youth and make a better impact on arts, culture and the collective Indigenous identity. And they do it all locally - in Edmonton. For information about Dreamspeakers Festival and the rules for entries visit dreamspeakers.org.
February, 2019
Alberta Native News
Ike Barber Award: Moving the needle on youth mental health Growing up in Port McNeill, nursing student Amy Parker had plenty of opportunities to admire her own mother, who was a nurse before her. In their small town of 2000, Amy’s mother was well known and loved by the community of people she served. Amy wanted to Amy Parker contribute back in a similar way - so she worked hard to achieve the required 97% on her prerequisite courses and enrolled at Vancouver Island University in the fall of 2015. Being of Metis heritage, Amy was able to access funding to support her studies. The Irving K. Barber British Columbia Scholarship Society has provided her with $7500 over three years to pursue her studies. It is her hope that she can move the needle on youth mental health in the province, through research and cross-sector collaboration to provide better services to the kids who need it. Amy just recently learned about her Metis heritage. Her grandfather, who was Metis, passed away when she was quite young. “As I learned more about it, I connected with the Metis Youth of BC,” noted Amy. “I don’t know too much about my own family because my grandfather has passed away, so I wasn’t able to ask those questions, and my dad doesn’t know too much either. I’ve just been learning about the culture. I attended one of the youth workshops this summer in Vancouver. I got to learn about
Red Deer
cont. from p 8
some constellation stories. We’ll also have craft and other activities and of course we will have cake. Feedback from visitors has been positive and despite the recent three weeks of cold weather, visitors continue to make their way to see the show. Hiding in Plain Sight is one of many exhibitions that will take place in the museum’s temporary gallery space this year. “Come down and join the hundreds of others who’ve visited the exhibition to date; we will be hosting other activities and exhibits in coming weeks so visit our website for updates and new arrivals.” One of those upcoming exhibits includes the Witness Blanket Installation, a breathtaking creation by Vancouver’s Carey Newman. His work stands as a national monument in recognition of the atrocities of the Indian Residential School era. It will open in Red Deer on May 4 and run until June 23. Verrier has been with RDMAG for the past nine years. She’s always had a “love for museums, heritage sites and great stories,” something she attributes to her childhood and a family who often travelled to various places and events and always took time to visit the museums. “It’s definitely my calling. I really enjoy the work; history is fascinating and so are the many people you meet along the way.” Before Red Deer, she added, “I worked at the Aero
the culture and mental health, which is an area of nursing that I’m really interested in.” Amy says the scholarship award will be a big help with her post-secondary education. “It helps so much,” she said. “Nursing is very demanding, especially on your time. Working while you’re going to school . . . it’s almost not even doable. So receiving the award was so helpful to pay for extra costs like books. And in nursing, we have to supply our own scrubs, which can be really expensive, and a stethoscope.” One of Amy’s personal challenges is her pregnancy. “Before I started my last year of the program in September, I found that I was having a baby,” explained Amy. “She’s due a month after I finish school. A lot of people in the nursing program tell me that I probably won’t be able to finish because I’m going to be pregnant during my preceptorship and it’s going to be really hard, but I am so determined to finish! So I’m finishing my degree hopefully in April, and then I’m going to take a couple months off to study for my final exam and be home with the baby. And then I'll be able to work after. I’ve had different job offers in Campbell River, Parksville and Nanaimo.” Amy is particularly interested in focusing her efforts on nursing and mental health issues. “The opioid crisis is huge right now in BC,” remarked Amy. “There’s a lot of stigma and misconception around addictions and how they relate to mental health. There’s a common misconception that addiction isn’t a mental health issue, but it totally is. It’s a disease process that needs to be further evaluated. And I would really like to do research around that. I’m really interested in youth mental health, particularly in neuroscience and how the formation of the Space Museum of Calgary, Fort Calgary Historic Park, and the Museum of the Regiments (now the Military Museums).” The Red Deer Museum + Art Gallery began in 1973, marking the City of Red Deer’s 60th anniversary. The Museum expanded into its present quarters in 1978. It houses a collection that comprises more than 90,000 objects, and includes one of the finest collections of clothing and textiles in Western Canada as well as an extensive collection of First Nations and Inuit art. The museum’s mandate is to be Central Alberta’s leading establishment for the research, collection and presentation of visual art and material culture that is related to this region. The Red Deer Museum + Art Gallery is a not-forprofit organization supported by its members, individual donors, corporate funders, foundations, the Alberta Foundation for the Arts and the City of Red Deer. The Métis emerged as a distinct people or nation in the historic Northwest during the 18th and 19th centuries. This area is known as the “historic Métis Nation Homeland,” which includes Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta, extending into the Northwest Territories, British Columbia, Ontario,
11 brain — the connections of the neurons and the pathways in the brain — makes certain people more susceptible to addiction.” Amy is also interested in connecting research to practise and making a positive difference in people’s lives. “There aren’t a lot of mental health resources available for youth,” she noted, “and if there are, there’s a gap in knowledge of how we’re able to tell the youth that this information is available to them. Bridging the gap between the interdisciplinary team, working with social workers and child protection services and making sure that kids get the help they need is so huge.” Amy is just 1 of 470 Indigenous students in BC last year who were awarded 1.5 million dollars from the Irving K. Barber British Columbia Scholarship Society to support their studies at post-secondary institutions throughout the province. The Society’s Indigenous Awards program is funded from the returns on an endowment fund established by the Province of British Columbia. It was created to assist in removing barriers to higher education for Indigenous peoples. Awards of $1,000 to $5,000 each are issued every year through a competitive process to students studying at all post-secondary levels, from trades training to doctoral programs. Since its inception, over $17 million has been distributed to BC students from its seven scholarship and award programs. The Victoria Foundation provides administrative support to the Society. “Not only is the success of British Columbia’s Indigenous communities a hugely important step in the reconciliation process, it is vital to the well-being of our entire province,” said Rajiv Gandhi, Chair. “The Indigenous Awards provide opportunities to students of Indigenous heritage, and IKBBC is proud to play a part.” For more information and to see if you quality for an Irving K. Barber BC Indigenous Student award visit ikbbc.ca. The deadline is March 31, 2019
Minnesota, Montana and North Dakota. Library and Archives Canada has a wide variety of archival documents pertaining to the Métis Nation, including textual records, photographs, artwork, maps, stamps and sound recordings. Library and Archives Canada would like to recognize the knowledge and expertise provided by the Métis National Council and the Manitoba Metis Federation in the creation of this exhibition. For more details regarding the exhibition Hiding in Plain Sight: Discovering the Métis Nation in the Archival Records of Library and Archives Canada contact Kim Verrier, Exhibitions Coordinator, kim.verrier@reddeer.ca, 403-309-8405 or Lorna Johnson, Executive Director, lorna.johnson@reddeer.ca, 403-3098439. Be sure to see the website at: www.reddeermuseum.com
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Alberta Native News
February, 2019
Returning to YEG: Shumka presents Ancestors & Elders by John Copley Shumka's Ancestors & Elders returns to Edmonton’s Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium (11455 87 Ave), for one show only on March 8, 2019 at 7:30 pm. Premiered in April of 2018, this collaborative production explores the relationship between the first Ukrainian settlers to Alberta and the Indigenous people they soon came to know. As the evening unfolds, the audience is taken on a spectacular journey that features similarities and differences, fear and respect and the power of tradition and truth. “What a brilliant and excellent weaving of cultures so powerful at times I could barely breathe,” noted one audience member at the premiere. “I was transported to an emotional and sacred place of healing and reconciliation. Thank you Thank you.” Ancestors & Elders is directed by Indigenous theatre artist Barry Bilinsky, and Shumka’s Joseph Hoffman. The production features a creative team of over 70 Albertabased designers, artists, story-tellers, musicians and
dancers including: story consultation and poetry by Anna Marie Sewell; music by Carissa Klopoushak (TYT I TAM; National Arts Centre Orchestra), Mike Romaniak (Lemon Bucket Orchestra) and Anders Hunter (Eya Hey Nakoda); visual art by Lana Whiskeyjack and Svitlana Kravchuk; costume design by Megan Koshka, with consultation by Melissa-Jo (MJ) Belcourt Moses, Trinity Chopyk and MaryAnn Baziuk; lighting design by Jeff Osterlin; projection design by Elijah Lindenberger; along with guest performances by Running Thunder Dancers, Darlene Auger, Ayla Modeste and more. “The weight of Truth and Reconciliation is difficult for most of us,” notes Darka Tarnawsky, the Executive Director of Edmonton-based Ukrainian Shumka Dancers & Shumka School of Dance. “What can we do? How can we possibly help? Telling this story of mutual respect and support, one that acknowledges the truth and celebrates our cultures collectively and collaboratively, is but one step in the healing process. Ancestors and Elders will have a long life beyond these performances. Its message must continue to be told.
Shumka presents Ancestors & Elders.
We are all human. We all have the same needs and wants. We wish to be loved and supported. We want to create and celebrate. We can do this together.” Tickets for Ancestors & Elders are $25 - $70 (plus applicable fees) through Ticketmaster.ca. Student, senior and group discounts are available. Two special Student Matinee performances will take place on March 7 at 10 am and 1 pm. Tickets are available through june.eeles@shumka.com. Visit Shumka.com for more information.
Enoch hockey events
cont. from p 9
kids. There will also be an opportunity for kids to play ball-hockey and participate in other events. The ECHA will be updating its Facebook page and website as event activities are added and finalized; more information will be available as the event day gets closer. Courtepatte said he is hoping to have former NHL First Nation players as guests at the event. “We don’t have a list finalized yet but we certainly would like to see people like Brian Trottier, Reggie Leech, Grant Fuhr, Jordin Tootoo and others join us. There are quite a few barriers facing Indigenous athletes when it comes to making it into professional hockey and it would be nice to have people join us who’ve overcome those barriers and carved a career for themselves. These athletes are great role models for our youth.” For information, contact Jordan at president@enochcreehockey.com.
February, 2019
Alberta Native News
BBMA
cont. from p 2
Metis today in the modern world. I believe that one of the qualities that has allowed the Metis community to grow and become what it is today, it is our sense of family, community and our willingness to help each other achieve our ambitions. “My dream is to improve the access and quality of emergency services such as fire rescue and emergency medical services on Metis settlements throughout Alberta. I’ve been volunteering as a firefighter in my hometown for over two years now and when I first joined I knew a career in emergency services was exactly what I wanted. Through my service as a first responder with a department that provides mutual aid for one Cree nation reservation and one Metis settlement, I experience firsthand the issues they faced in regards to emergency response and safety. These issues include a lack of funding for proper resources and training, discrimination from responders from outside communities, and response times of over an hour. That means, when something terrible happens in those communities, when it could be the worst day of someone's life, they have to wait at least an hour for someone to respond and help. These are the kinds of issues I wish to address in my career and I need to have the knowledge and experience to do so. This process for me would not have been possible to achieve. Thanks to the Belcourt Brosseau Metis Award, I believe I will now have the resources to achieve my goals and career dreams. Without this award, those barriers would hold me back from doing what I passionately wish to do and the BBMA is all about breaking down those barriers for Metis people like me. In the short term, this award allows me to pay my tuition fees but in the long run, it will contribute to improving the Metis community and Nation as a whole because it is an investment in a better future for us all. “And finally, I would just like to thank the Founders Georges Brosseau and Orval Belcourt as well as the awards panel. Thank you very much. I will make you proud and I won’t waste your investment in me.” The Edmonton Community Foundation (ECF) has been a partner with the BBMA for 17 years, about a decade after ECF began working to create and maintain a strong, vibrant community by acting as a bridge between donors’ wishes and the needs of charities in the
Spirit North
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cont. from p 7
Born in Vegreville, Alberta and growing up in nearby Vermilion, Scott began cross-country skiing at the age of five. She entered her first competition when she was seven. She attended the Junior National Championships in 1988 and went on to win seventeen World Cup medals in sprint, individual, and relay cross-country skiing events. A three-time Olympian, Scott participated at the 1998 Winter Olympic Games in Nagano, Japan, the 2002 Winter Olympic Games in Salt Lake City and the 2006 Winter Olympic Games in Turin, Italy. She is an Officer of the Order of Canada, holds an honorary Doctorate of Laws from the University of Alberta, and has been inducted in four different Halls of Fame: Canadian Sports Hall of Fame; Canadian Olympic Hall of Fame; Canadian Ski Hall of Fame, and the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame. Spirit North is a Canadian charitable organization committed to improving the health and well-being of Indigenous youth. “We use the power of sport and play to engage, inspire and educate youth,” explained Scott. “Our goal is to spark inspiration and facilitate the development of communityled sport and activity programming that builds good health, promotes leadership, and increases the positive
greater Edmonton area. By pooling contributions from individuals and organizations, ECF creates permanent endowment funds that provide long-term support for a wide range of local charitable organizations and causes, while helping donors maximize the impact of their charitable giving. To date the Foundation has allocated more than $190 million to enhance and strengthen the community. For more information on the awards program, the BBMA gala or the application process contact Communications Coordinator Theresa Majeran at 780-977-5515 or by email to communications@bbma.ca.
development of youth and their communities. “We build and develop programs with the input of teachers, school administration, students, and community members. We work to ensure programs are built by the community, for the community, and we provide support and direction where needed. By working together, we build strong relationships with educators and community leaders to achieve positive, lasting change.” Spirit North’s core methodology is focused on three key components to effect positive development for Indigenous youth. The first is to connect or deliver regular outreach programming to students in their own communities and schools. Spirit North uses a collaborative play-based approach to engage youth in sport and activity. Their
programs are designed to be active, inclusive and participation-focused as they build and develop skills that can be transferred back in to the classroom and the community. The second is to empower or to recognize that the most successful programs are community led and owned. Spirit North works diligently to guide and assist communities in transitioning from introductory program delivery to community-led sustainable programming. The third is to inspire: or to understand that in order to create positive change in a community, it is essential to create the desire for lifelong well-being from within each individual. More than just time on skis, Spirit North’s holistic approach includes information and resources on such important topics as mental health, good nutrition, land-based activity and physical literacy. For more information read Spirit North’s beautifully compiled 2018 Annual Report at www.spiritnorthxc.ca.
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Alberta Native News
February, 2019
Sistering project fosters teamwork and cultural exchange by John Copley (ANNews) – An opportunity of a lifetime awaits 16 female undergraduate students currently attending a postsecondary institution in Alberta or the Northwest Territories. The opportunity comes via a unique initiative being organized and administered by Cindy Shaw and Catherine McNalty, coordinators of a program known as SINEWS, a grant and mentorship initiative that is supporting eight pairs of female college or university students interested in working on projects relevant to Natural Resources Canada’s (NRCan) research mandates. Each pair is made up of one Indigenous and one nonIndigenous female student. The intent of the SINEWS project, also called: Sistering Indigenous & Western Science, is to give women in science and technology the opportunity to develop scientific leadership and teamwork skills, develop a professional network, and to foster positive relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous women and their communities. Shaw is a research scientist who has been working with the Canadian Forest Service for the past two decades while McNalty is a 14-year veteran with Natural Resources Canada. Shaw works with a large team of scientists who developed a computer model that calculates the amount of carbon in Canada’s forests to determine how the forests contribute to overall greenhouse gas emissions. McNalty is a tree-ring technician who works closely with the national forest inventory as they gather tree cores from across the country to measure such things as age, productivity, fire history and drought and insect defoliation. SINEWS is a bursary and mentoring program that aims to support women who are currently enrolled in postsecondary institutions in the 2018-19 school year. Awards will be given to eight pairs of women, one in each pair must identify as Indigenous, while the other as non-
Indigenous, to complete a summer research project in a topic that supports Indigenous interests, and also supports the research conducted at Natural Resources Canada. Students are encouraged to apply as a self-identified Catherine McNalty and Cindy Shaw are coordinating an exciting new initiative for pair; however, interested Indigenous and non-Indigenous female students interested in a resource related individuals can go to the project. Applications are due on Feb. 18, 2019. SINEWS website to “Look for a Partner” or apply as an individual to be matched with award,” noted McNalty, “students must have completed a partner by the SINEWS team. Students will have a all the course requirements of at least the first year of postmentor for their project. They may identify a potential secondary study (or two academic terms) of your degree mentor in the application form or SINEWS will find a or diploma; have been registered in at least one of the last mentor for each pair of students. Student pairs will be two terms immediately before holding the award in a required to share the results of their project in some form program at an eligible post-secondary institute; not have of output (written report, multimedia, etc.) at the close of started a program of graduate studies at any time; accept the summer term. Mentors for student pairs will be located the award by April 5, 2019 and be engaged on a full-time at various institutions in Alberta and the Northwest basis in research and development activities of your project during the tenure of the award.” Territories. Candidates will be chosen by a selection committee that “To apply for the SINEWS Program,” explained Shaw, “students are required to submit a completed application includes NRCan and post-secondary scientists, and an form and a recent copy of transcripts from their current Elder-in-Residence. Applicants will be selected based on post-secondary institution or other proof of enrolment. how well their applications meet the evaluation criteria. Bursary awards designed to provide personal support to Students may also submit an optional letter of support from a mentor, professor, former employer or community the participants have a value of $12,000 (per student), member that is familiar with the student’s character or however, students whose work is located in the Northwest achievements (note that family members are not eligible to Territories will receive an additional northern allowance. Launch week training and orientation, including write support letters). Complete applications should be submitted to: nrcan.sinewsapplicants.rncan@canada.ca at transportation to and from the event in Edmonton, Alberta, as well as housing and food during orientation, will be or before 12:00 AM (MST) February 18, 2019.” Applications submitted after the deadline has passed provided. Students are responsible for their own living expenses during the tenure of the award, which take place will not be considered. To be eligible for an award, students must be Canadian from May 31 to August 31, 2019. More information is available online and by mail. citizens or a permanent resident of Canada as of Email: nrcan.SINEWShelp.rncan@Canada.ca Project ideas must be resource based and can include February 18, 2019; identify as female (including Two- such areas as: Forestry (e.g., forest fire, forest restoration Spirit, non-binary and cis and land reclamation); Energy research (e.g. bioenergy); and trans women); be Oil sands research (e.g. resource extraction, upgrading); registered (full time or part Reclamation and tailings (e.g. water management, time), as of February 18, emissions reduction); GIS (e.g. mapping, data creation, 2019 in a degree or web data creation); Property rights and boundary issues, diploma program at any including water boundaries; Capacity building (e.g. onsite eligible post-secondary training for First Nations communities on matters related to land management, surveys and mapping); First Nations institution; “To qualify for an Continued on page 15
February, 2019
Sistering
Alberta Native News cont. from p 14
Land Management (under the First Nations Land Management Act); Land surveying and others. Other resource sector projects could include a broad range of topics that involve such areas as mining, oil and gas and energy. Qualifying project ideas could include, among other important areas of research: Historic study of the role of Indigenous firefighters in wildfire management; Social science study on Indigenous cultural burning practices; Participatory wildfire management planning with an Indigenous community; Social science case study with an Indigenous community that’s been evacuated by a wildfire; Historic study of Indigenous burning practices using early explorer accounts; Assessing the trade-offs of Indigenous and Western land use values on forest carbon emissions; Mapping of flora and fauna used for traditional and/or medicinal purposes. “This is a unique opportunity and one that can lead to a very rewarding career in the resource sector,” assured Shaw. “The primary goal of this initiative is to provide women at the undergraduate level with possible career opportunities for mentoring and networking in their professions and to go through the process of creating an idea, managing a small budget, taking the project through to completion and developing professional networks that will give them more opportunities in the future. A major part of the project is the mentoring. We will have an Elderin-Residence and Indigenous staff who will help them develop their ideas and their projects.” The second goal, noted Shaw, “and one that is of particular importance to me is to have Indigenous and non-Indigenous people working together and to have the cultural exchange that allows you to learn more about one another and about one another’s culture. We want to bring traditional knowledge to the project – western science in combination with Indigenous knowledge and traditional ways of observing changes in the landscape. It’s really important that the project is driven by public Indigenous interests; the idea is for western science to incorporate and utilize Indigenous knowledge. These girls have an opportunity to create a project within their home communities. This would be beneficial because by doing so they will incur fewer expenses and perhaps develop a viable project that can be utilized within their own communities. We hope that these projects will be filled with innovative ideas, viable concepts and new ways of doing things.” Once the eight teams have been developed, they’ll get
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together for a few days of training, sharing their projects ideas and working together with the Elderin-Residence. Cultural training is an important part of the project. “The training,” explained McNalty, “will also help the girls with the management of their projects and will include communications, tools for creating videos and other important elements of the individual projects; at the end of the program we will come together again to share the outcomes of the projects and what was learned while working on the projects. We are also hoping to be able to secure the funds needed to allow the girls to return to their respective communities where they can also share their projects with their peers and community members.” Output formats that can be used by the students to introduce their summer work include but are not limited to: Audio files (e.g. podcasts, audio documentary, music); Video files and visual works (e.g. documentaries, time-lapses, film, info graphics, art projects, posters); Web applications; Social Media (e.g. Facebook or Instagram feed); Written works (e.g. reports, stories) and Educational tools (e.g. poster, how-to-guide, video.) The project takes place from May 31 through August 31; the eight teams will be funded for the project to the tune of $12,000 (per person) plus an additional $5,000 (per team) that will be used to help support their project work. “For the participants in the project, the $12,000 represents the income they’d likely generate during a working summer because this is in essence, a summer job with goals and objectives that offer a viable opportunity for the girls to work, learn, and network with mentors and others in the resource sector. The only difference is that they will get the money as a bursary so it will all come at once.” Though there is some flexibility in the application process, applications will be assessed against the following criteria: eligibility for the program; relevance of the project to public Indigenous interests; potential to build relationships and create connections between cultures; feasibility and ingenuity of project idea; clear communication of project, and communication of a distinct project objective; relevance to NRCan research mandates; applicant’s statement of interest and demonstrated enthusiasm. “We do have a fair amount of flexibility in this project,” noted Shaw, who said the best ways for would-be applicants to learn more about the initiative would be to
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check out the website.” In the meantime, both Shaw and McNalty are meeting with students in various post-secondary institutions across the province. “We can’t get out to everyone but so far we’ve been to Keyano College. NAIT, SAIT, Grand Prairie Regional College and others are on our schedule,” explained McNalty. “We are also utilizing various types of social media, including a Face Book page with lots of information available.” Click here to learn more about NRCAN or to receive clarification if help is needed to fit your idea into one of the areas mentioned in this article, or email nrcan.SINEWShelp.rncan@Canada.ca. Apply now!
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Alberta Native News
February, 2019