Volume 36 Number 3 March 2019
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Alberta Native News
March, 2019
Dreamspeakers Festival celebrates 25 years: April 26 – May 7 by John Copley 2019 marks a milestone moment for the Edmontonbased Dreamspeakers Festival Society (DFS); this is the organization’s 25th Anniversary. From April 26 through May 7 the Dreamspeakers Film Festival will highlight some of those years and focus on some of the artists and the work they completed while participating in the organization’s truly remarkable journey. “It’s been a great year for us,” smiled organizer and DFS Executive Director, Christine Frederick. “We’ve been building for the past couple of years and we are very excited about our upcoming anniversary festival.” Alberta’s capital will once again become the site of this important international gathering, one that highlights a variety of themes via feature films (longer than 41 minutes) and short films (40 minutes and less) delivered by Indigenous artists and filmmakers from across the province and beyond. “We will once again present to our audiences an extraordinary selection of films as we explore various themes, host another Youth Day event and present five full days of film screening, most of which will be screened at the Metro (Garneau) Theatre. Most of our performing arts events will be held at the new Allard Hall facility at Grant McEwan University; there are three different theatres in that venue. We will also be featuring several events in the beautiful atrium lobby. “We also have a visual arts presentation that will take place in partnership with the Gallerie Cité at La Cité Francophone. They will be displaying our visual arts in their gallery from April to July. We have also formed a partnership for 2019 with the Rubaboo Arts Festival; that organization is celebrating its 10th Anniversary.” The entire event takes place from April 26 to May 7; the first day begins with the Opening Ceremonies, which will be followed by five days of Dreamspeakers film screenings. Youth Day will be held on May 2 and then the event will concentrate on performing and digital arts, which will culminate on May 7 with a large anniversary gala and closing ceremonies. The location for the Opening Ceremonies hasn’t been announced yet but Frederick is hopeful that the intro to this year’s festival will take place at Beaver Hills Park.
“We’re playing tag with Parks and Recreation right now,” grinned Frederick, “but we are hopeful that this well-known park, which has played an important role in the Indigenous history of the area, will be our starting point for 2019." The Dreamspeakers Festival Society is a registered nonprofit charitable status organization that was created in 1993. The society produces an international festival that has been showcasing the latest works by Indigenous people's innovation in film, video, radio, and new media, presenting selections of Indigenous works from around the globe since its inception. The festival attracts and connects filmmakers, media artists, programmers, buyers, and industry professionals. The works accepted reflect the diversity of the world's Indigenous nations and illustrate the vitality and excellence of Indigenous art and culture. But Dreamspeakers is more than an opportunity to meet, greet and share Indigenous perspectives on film, it is also about opportunities for youth. “Definitely,” assured Frederick. “In fact, for the past couple of years we have been focusing on community and the importance of bringing communities together and honouring our local filmmakers and artists. We want to make certain that we are doing what we can to promote community dialogue, panel discussions, meet-and-greet and other activities that focus on relationship building, encourage collaboration and create dialogue that pushes all of the art form forward, especially as it relates to our collective identity.” The goals of the organization have remained intact for the past 25 years. “This mean that we endeavour to connect in a meaningful way, to learn how to be more impactful to the needs of artists and our greater community. The activities we propose will advance our effective strategic planning for years. It also puts us in a better position to honour the original vision of the Dreamspeakers founders to be a resource for Aboriginal filmmakers, directors, scriptwriters, cameramen, technicians, actors, musicians, storytellers, artists and craftspeople. We can create more opportunities and make a better impact on arts, culture and our collective identity, and
we can do it all right here in Edmonton.” The Dreamspeakers Festival Society empowers young Aboriginal artists to express their creativity, entertain audiences, and share their visions. Youth Day is the organization’s celebration of youth culture and a showcase for the richness and diversity of a new generation of filmmakers. The 2019 festival will once again introduce its Youth Day experience, but this year it will have an added touch. “We’re really building on the momentum we gained with the Youth Day event we held in 2017,” Frederick explained. “There are a couple of themes this year and one of those is an internal theme which speaks to our strategic planning for the next four or five years. It is about identity and recognition of artists and art forms. One, though not official just yet, is about body sovereignty ; it’s a theme we are looking at and that a lot of this year’s artists are looking at as well. I guess it’s our response to the Me-Too Movement; it is an acknowledgment of the sacred knowledge that Indigenous people have when it comes to health, sexual health and gender identity.” One piece of the Youth Day portion of the Dreamspeakers 2019 portfolio will be a retrospective of short films created over the past many years by Indigenous youth in a culmination of work that comes via “Dreamspeakers on Tour.” “This is a program we used to run where we’d take about 15 youth out of the city, teach them filmmaking in 10 days and then have each of them make a five-minute Continued on page 11
March, 2019
Alberta Native News
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'Ancestors & Elders' delivers a brilliant production showcasing culture and conciliation By Regan Treewater (ANNews) - In a mesmerizing spectacle of stunning magnitude, Edmonton’s Northern Jubilee Auditorium stage ignited in a captivating collision of cultures and color Friday evening. On March 8, for one night only, and back by popular demand, the Running Thunder dancers and drummers joined a cast of Ukrainian Shumka performers in a thrilling expression of history, tradition, and human celebration. Ancestors and Elders, a two-act fusion of First Nations and Ukrainian folk lyrical expression, captures a visually stirring glimpse of what it means to connect with one’s cultural heritage. “We must strive to become good ancestors,” declared Darka Tarnawsky, Executive Director of Ukrainian Shumka. “When we look at the legacy of the ancestors and elders who came before us, we realize this is an enormous expectation. But with each gesture of acceptance, openness, and the simple joining of hands, it seems more and more possible.” Ancestors and Elders brings together two unlikely cultural partners in what has proven to be a diverse exploration of how contemporary cultural groups connect with their histories, but also with their futures. “We aim to truly and genuinely engage each other with humble and open hearts as we share our most personal stories – the ones that have seen us become who we are today,” remarked the production’s Co-Director, Barry Bilinsky. “I hope that our piece reflects the journey we have undertaken to understand each other more deeply and begin a path to true ally ship and conciliation.” Through movement and sound Ancestors and Elders conjures images of origin and creation, conflict and collaboration. Ironically, juxtapositions of tradition and modern innovation, reiterated throughout the performance, highlighted the piece’s ultimate vision of harmony.
Audience members watched as stories of the enduring human spirit materialized in ensemble and solo dances. Although First Nations contributions and The Shumka Dancers and Running Thunder Dancers gave the Edmonton audience Ukrainian content were a breathtaking performance on March 8 at the Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. easily differentiated The day before, students from the Edmonton area were treated to an amazing initially, these distinctions matinee performance. eventually gave way to the more critical message that there is, in fact, more shared universally between peoples, of faces was one heralding multiculturalism and community. The audience reflected fantastic diversity – than there is that divides. and a shared appreciation for cultural collaboration in the The sentiments of partnership trumpeted by Tarnawsky arts. and echoed by Bilinsky, were the foundation for all that The performance was, and is, accessible for all ages. was brought to life onstage. The composition covered the Even wiggly eight-year-old children ceased their gamut of human experience with stories of the healing squirming as soon as the Shumka dancers began to leap powers of rain, of the search for familiar herbs and and glide weightlessly through the air to the gripping beat medicines in a strange land, cultural displacement, of the Running Thunder drummers. While adults were perseverance, community, and celebration. confronted by content chronicling narratives from the The performance is one that engages viewers residential school system, children were able to appreciate intellectually in addition to satiating their desire for the enchanting cacophony of brightly colored costumes entertainment. Woven into the lyrical, rhythm-driven and dazzling physical feats. fabric of the production were reflective questions intended While the lively dancing style of Running Thunder to initiate ongoing contemplation. Audience members remained rooted poetically in the earthly, the Shumka were encouraged by the content to ponder their own performers seemed to defy gravity and the laws of physics connections with heritage, understandings of history, and – when the two groups would merge into one, the stage relationships with the cultures around them. Ultimately, appeared to explode with energy. The pairing of First mutual acceptance, camaraderie, and respect were the Nations and Ukrainian dance seemed meant to be, as the desired conclusions elicited by the culmination of styles worked together in a highly stimulating movement and sound as a theatre full of patrons joined demonstration of pure unity. Ancestors and Elders is more hands and hearts in a shared round dance. than a feast for the eyes and ears, it aims to initiate The procession paraded and wove its way up and conversations about history and our collective future. down the aisles, and across the main stage. The montage
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Alberta Native News
March, 2019
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Chief Wilton Littlechild speaks out (March 2019) – Wilton Littlechild, Grand Chief of the Confederacy of Treaty 6 Nations chose to wait until hearing from all those who were called to appear before the Justice Standing Committee on the SNC Lavalin issue before giving his personal opinion on the recent resignation of former Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould and Minister Jane Philpott. He recently issued the following statement. “I am deeply saddened with the resignations of these two hard-working, dedicated individuals, who have worked tirelessly on issues impacting out First Nations from the federal government level. While Ms. Wilson-Raybould herself is a First Nations person, I do not automatically support her for that reason; I have seen her take the role as a member of Parliament for all Canadians, not just the Indigenous peoples as I did when I was an MP. As another lawyer by profession, she is aware of the Rule of Law and has maintained the ethical requirements as a lawyer, and even more stringently enforced as an Indigenous person as demanded in our cultural teachings. “Dr. Philpott was an outstanding Minister of Indigenous Services Canada as I witnessed her taking a humanistic view of the issues impacting our Nations and our Treaty citizens, particularly the children. It was a loss to us when she was moved to Treasury as there was more to do on the files she was working on with our leaders. Both would be a great loss to our country. In fact there could be a severe backlash on Indigenous issues because of the way this matter was handled. “I commend both these Members of Parliament for taking a stand in what I would definitely say is a path to Reconciliation, standing up for what they believe in. It is not an easy task to do this, to go against the Party; I do not believe either should be penalized by the Prime Minister nor their Liberal Caucus. Instead I would recommend the Caucus look at Reconciliation as a way to heal and move forward within their Party.
“In listening to the testimonies offered, I do not see the argument of lost jobs as the issue when it was also reported that the unemployment rate is at its highest. I would question whether those employed by the company are supportive of their employer having learned of the corrupt practices implemented, including the threat of moving out of Quebec if not provided a deferred prosecution agreement, when the company is bound by an agreement not to move through 20124 with the Quebec’s pension fund manager (the Caisee de depot et placement du Quebec). I would also question why the testimony of the former Principle Secretary was not conducted under oath; I find it difficult to believe he had not known of the decision of the former Attorney General until her testimony when he had been present at meetings with her. “But setting that aside, as a former Vice-Chair of the Justice Committee for five years, Commissioner to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada and having worked on the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, I am disheartened that the actions taken have come to overshadow important work undertaken to correct past wrongs, to find a way to reconciliation and to uphold the minimum standard of rights for my fellow Indigenous peoples in Canada and around the world. Eight months ago we studied and proposed a National Council for Reconciliation and nothing has happened to our recommendations. My deepest concern and regret now is that reconciliation was just another another façade. “I urge the Prime Minister to set aside pride and to reach out to these valuable former members of his Cabinet and heal within the Liberal Caucus for all Canadians to advance in these days and months ahead of us. I extend my hand to Prime Minister Trudeau, as representing the government for the Crown we entered into Treaty with, should he wish to find a path to true reconciliation.”
March, 2019
Alberta Native News
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Métis Spring Festival returns to St. Albert: May 17-19 by John Copley The 2019 Métis Spring Festival will take place in St. Albert’s Servus Credit Union Place during the weekend of May 17-19, 2019. The Friday night opening of the annual event will get underway with a Talent Show that begins at 6:30 p.m. Talent Contest competitors will vie for more than $5,000 in first, second and third place prize money available for the top contestants in junior, youth, adult and senior vocalist categories. Registration deadline is 5:30 p.m. May 17, just one hour before the talent show begins. “Once again,” noted organizer Florence Gaucher, “the Talent Contest will present the ideal opportunity to come out and demonstrate your talents and your abilities. “We’d like to encourage talented individuals of all ages - tots to seniors - to come out to the annual event, show off your talents and your culture and maybe win some prize money for your efforts.” The annual event, sponsored by Edmonton-based Metis Child and Family Services, has taken place in the popular and spacious St. Albert venue since 2010. As it has for the past several years the Métis Spring Festival is appealing to beginners and intermediate jiggers and fiddlers. Professional dancers who currently dance with an organization or group will not compete for prize money, and as established in 2013, paid performers will not compete for prizes. “We’ve got a very good agenda again this year,” noted MCFS Executive Director, Donald Langford. “The program is designed to help develop our young dancers and fiddlers. If anyone reading this article would like to participate, we encourage you to come out and compete on equal footing for the thousands of dollars that will be awarded to contestants.” Of course, all children who participate in the Tiny Tots categories will receive a prize. This year the Métis Nation of Alberta (MNA) is joining the celebration in partnership with MCFS and is sponsoring all categories in the Fiddling competitions (Junior: Age 7-12, Youth: Age 13-19, Adult Amateur: Age
20-59, Adult Open: Age 20+ and Senior 60+). The MNA will also pay for the participating Square Dance Groups, a list that includes the Fort Qu’Appelle Dancers, (Regina, SK), the Ivan Flett Memorial Dancers (Winnipeg, MB), the D-Town Steppers (Dauphin, MB), the Pine House Square Dancers (Pine House, SK) and the Lii Michif Buffalo Gals (Kamloops, BC). “We are also looking to government, both provincial and federal, to see if they will get involved,” explained Gaucher. “If we get more sponsorship, the prize money for competition winners and runners-up will also increase but even if we don’t get that support the prize money will be similar to the amounts that were awarded last year, somewhere in the neighbourhood of $30,000.” There are no entry fees for competitors in the talent contest or the jigging and fiddling categories but there will be a nominal admission charge to help offset costs. There is no charge for babies and toddlers under five years of age, admission for seniors and youth six to 15 years of age is $10; those 16 years and older will pay $15. This year’s festival will showcase several local professional entertainers and musicians, including the event’s band members: Alfie Myhre, Calvin Volrath and Alex Tusturok with back-up members Chad Pelletier (guitar), Don Marrotte (bass) and Richard Chernesky (rhythm). During the two-day competition that took place during the 2018 spring festival, more than 100 contestants vied for a range of prizes that totalled nearly $30,000. The top three winners in each category took home the bulk of the prize money. Organizers of the event are encouraging anyone planning to compete in the talent contest to register early this year. “It will help us set up the program with a smoother transition,” noted Gaucher. “Registrations for the Fiddling and Jigging Competitions get underway at 9 a.m. on Saturday morning and close at noon.
Competition begins at noon both Saturday and Sunday. Don Langford takes every opportunity he can to encourage Metis youth to invest time in their culture and traditions and to be proud of who they are. He said youth who participate in their culture and stay involved with their community, tend to live healthy and successful lives. “Our culture is important to us and it is equally important that we have our children involved with it at an early age, through both everyday communication and when possible, Métis celebrations,” Langford said. “It is important that our youth know who they are and how important they are to us all. As Métis people we have a place in the history of Alberta and a role to play in that history. We are a proud people; we have our own spirituality, traditions and ancestry. As Métis we like to celebrate our skills, our music and our dance; we also like to share all these things, including our values, with others.” St. Albert has proven to be the ideal place to share those values and traditions through the annual spring festival celebration. “St Albert has been very accommodating over the Continued on page 6
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The art of the weld (March, 2019) - When you think of art forms, welding is not a medium that comes to mind. The work of Ralph Courtorielle creates a compelling argument for its inclusion. A journeyman welder, Ralph completed his welding training at Northern Lakes College and is currently teaching Pre-Employment Welding at the College. Ralph had been working in the trades for over ten years, doing the work but not getting the wage he would as a journeyman welder, compelling him to enrol in the First Period of Welder Apprenticeship at Northern Lakes College. Welders work in diverse fields including oil, gas, or mills, and there are many opportunities to be selfemployed. Though now a journeyman welder with a Red Seal designation, a national certification that allows him to weld throughout Canada, Ralph is a perpetual student and continues to learn. “Every year there is something new or more efficient in the field of welding, and I find this interesting,” he observes. This love of learning has translated into a passion for teaching. Ralph takes great pleasure in passing on what he has learned. He considers himself a mentor, not only teaching the technical aspects of welding that lead to employment, but also the artistic aspects of the trade. “I think the reason that I am connecting so well with the pre-employment students is that I am a product of preemployment training myself. When I first picked up the welder, it was as though I was meant to do it. I want to show students that though welding can be taxing on your body and physically demanding, there is a lot of room for
the creative. It is not all hard work; there is fun involved.” Ralph enjoys turning a flat sheet of metal into something useful or beautiful. For those, such as Ralph with an artistic gift, welding can also be a creative outlet. When he and his family were unable to find a headstone they liked for his mother’s grave, Ralph donned his welding mask and gloves. He lovingly created a Journeyman welder Ralph Courtoreille completed his training at Northern Lakes custom headstone, College. He is currently teaching Pre-Employment Welding at the College and also incorporating meaningful uses welding as a creative outlet. aspects of Indigenous preparation and review in class. Instructor Chris culture and spiritual beliefs, to honour his mother’s life. Originally from Grouard and now living in High Prairie, Montgomery-Hewett was very thorough and drove home Ralph is married and the father of three sons. He enjoys the details like the safety aspects and the math that is playing baseball and spending time with family. Over the involved in welding. Jeff VanWyck and Jody Rees both last few years, he has played in baseball tournaments all helped me along with welds for my third year exams, in over Alberta and has gone to national championships as particular stick welding.” With his artistic approach to welding, don’t be surprised far away as Montréal. Ralph reminisces about his time studying at NLC and if you see his work featured in an exhibition at some point. the support he received from his instructors. “Passing the Until then, he will continue to pass on his passion for the red seal journeyman exam was harder than anticipated. trade to up-and-coming welders. For information visit northernlakescollege.ca. The College instructors provided us with excellent exam
Métis Spring Festival
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years,” Langford explained. “Historically and traditionally, the city has been a long-time home to Alberta’s Métis. The region is known as a large French-speaking Métis area - that’s a big part of our culture. I think a lot of the people in St. Albert are rediscovering their Métis heritage and they’re becoming proud of it. The attendance records we’ve been setting indicate that. The crowds keep getting larger and we get a lot of support from citizens throughout the region. “The community has been great supporters of the venue and Servus Place has more than enough room to accommodate the crowds who turn out every year to watch the competitions.” Servus Place is a large and well-serviced facility with lots of parking space and the popular 320,000 square foot multipurpose leisure centre that houses three NHL-sized arenas, an aquatic centre, fitness centre, indoor playground, three gymnasium courts, two field houses, a teaching kitchen, and numerous retail operations and food service outlets. MCFS works diligently to ensure that they make a positive difference in the lives of both those they serve and in society as a whole. The organization has a proven track record and a lengthy list of objectives that work to ensure that Métis children, women and families have access to services and opportunities that they may not be able to access by themselves. MCFS programs include: Aboriginal Child and Family Support, Family Services, Choices/Choices a Partnership Stay in School and Youth Support Program, Community Support Homes (Foster Care), Family Violence, Protection of Sexually Exploited Children and the Street Outreach Team Assisting community resources. For information about MCFS visit metischild.com. To learn more about Métis Spring Festival 2019 contact Florence at 780-452-6100 or email: florencemc@metischild.com
March, 2019
Alberta Native News
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YEG Food Bank addresses a broad range of needs (ANNews) - Edmonton’s Food Bank is offering a new program that goes beyond food to bring enhanced supports to its diverse clientele. The program, aptly named ‘Beyond Food’, is a partnership of local organizations with the shared goal to address a broader range of needs. “We surveyed our clients and 70% of people reported that they were not connected with other supports in their community,” said Mandy White, Annex Program and Project Lead for Edmonton’s Food Bank. “So many people were not linked with key resources that could make a huge difference.” Rather than duplicating existing services, the Food Bank mobilized alongside partner organizations to bring a variety of supports together at the Food Bank. “It can be demoralizing to run around from place to place trying to find answers and support,” noted White. “We have made resources available at one location.” Beyond Food provides employment supports and training, language, math and computer help, and support workers to help people connect to practical low-cost resources and community opportunities. All partners work together to meet a variety of needs. “A person might come into the Food Bank for a food hamper, then speak with a support worker from the Canadian Mental Health Association or Catholic Social Services – and apply for a low-cost bus pass and free recreation pass through the City of Edmonton,” said White. Beyond Food really is a team venture. Thanks to the Edmonton Community Foundation, and with the support of an OHS Innovation and Engagement grant through the Government of Alberta, Beyond Food is able to offer safety ticket training at no cost. “In the past, a person might find a job they were interested in but wouldn’t be able to afford to pay for the ticket required to apply. Because of this grant, we have an opportunity to help people access employment that would otherwise be out of reach,” explained White. “That goes a long way in terms of their experience of poverty and food
insecurity. It can make the difference between needing a food hamper and being able to go to the grocery store. This funding creates better outcomes for families, for the future.” “A client might take a ticket, certification, or employment workshop provided on-site by Boyle Street Community Services,” continued White, “and then an Employer Connector could help them find work experience opportunities through Habitat for Humanity. They might attend pre-employment programming for women through Bissell Centre - or even get a job through employment fairs hosted with Boyle Street Water Wings, or the Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers.” Clients who are having trouble making ends meet can see volunteer money coaches, and get their taxes done for free through the Salvation Army and their Social Insurance Number for all family members through Service Canada. “Having your taxes done and identification in place can open a lot of doors to qualify for tax credits and subsidy programs,” White confirmed. Those who are interested in Beyond Food’s free low-income tax clinics should call (780) 425-2133 extension 230 to book an appointment. Many people who use the Food Bank are taking advantage of these opportunities. On a slow day we might see as few as 12 people in our Learning Lab alone, or as many as 25, remarked White. “We serve over 350 different people each month, one-on-one, so people receive focused attention.” This focus on the individual remains at the forefront of the project’s priorities. Beyond Food is an open door. All services are offered on a drop-in basis, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. “People are often surprised when we tell them that no appointment is necessary,” said White. “We do our best to offer supports our clients feel are important in ways that make sense for them. When you don’t have a lot of resources or stability in your life, appointments can be a
real obstacle: what if childcare falls through, or public transit is delayed, or something else happens that might cause a person to miss an appointment. People need flexibility. We are more effective for those who need our services if they can just drop-in and work at their own pace.” Beyond Food strives to offer culturally relevant services. “We speak over six languages in our Learning Lab, where The Learning Centre offers English and math upgrading, English as a Second Language, and literacy supports,” noted White. Everyone is welcome. Edmonton’s Food Bank has found a streamlined way of maximizing the efforts of many local organizations in one place for the benefit of Edmontonians. Now, clients walking into the Food Bank can rest assured that in addition to food security, they have allies alongside them in Beyond Food who will ensure that they are given every opportunity to succeed. “We know it is not always only a matter of supplementing a person’s basic food needs,” concluded White. “Nobody wants to be in the position to need to access Food Bank services – we understand, and we want to be both that soft landing spot and a springboard forward when times are tough.”
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Alberta Native News
March, 2019
New classes available for clients at Poundmaker's by John Copley Poundmaker’s Lodge and Treatment Centres has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with St. Albert Further Education (STFE) that will enable clients in recovery to participate in training programs designed to enhance education and knowledge in areas that include literacy, numeracy, computer skills, workplace etiquette, resume writing, interview preparation and more. The two-page document, a one-year agreement that commences immediately and ends in June 2020, was signed by Poundmaker’s Lodge Executive Director Brad Cardinal and STFE Executive Director, Cheryl Dumont in a late morning meeting that included educators, Elders and media. The idea is to revisit the MOU next year to decide whether to continue as is or seek government funding support for additional programs and services. Brad Cardinal introduced the room and spoke about Poundmaker’s Lodge, its origin, its history and the important role that education plays in developing a solid foundation for a healthy future, no matter what culture is represented. He also spoke about the recent MOU and how it will foster better opportunities for Indigenous people. Under the agreement, STFE will have approximately 10 volunteer coaches who will help Poundmaker’s clients better their literacy skills via free sessions on subjects such as computer use, work skills and financial planning. Poundmaker’s staff will promote these services and help train coaches when it comes to working with clients. The trained and qualified volunteers will also direct clients to adult education programs in their home communities so learning can continue once they leave Poundmaker’s. Each partner has specific responsibilities: STFE will supply the volunteer tutors and provide the necessary educational material. It will also ensure that all volunteers have been properly accredited. The organization will also oversee education programs, provide feedback to users and instructors and prepare quarterly reports for both parties. Poundmaker’s will provide training for the tutors regarding working with vulnerable populations; it will also advertise the tutoring services classrooms and workshops to its clientele and ensure that training times for clients are available. Poundmaker’s will also provide an orientation tour of the facilities and will promote the services to clients who may be interested in and could benefit from the services of an individual tutor. According to educational statistics approximately 48 percent of adult Canadians fall below a Level 3 on the literacy scale, a number that is below high school equivalency. When literacy increases so does the probability of being employed. The intent of the initiative is to “improve the foundational literacy, numeracy, financial and computer digital competencies and to help learners build confidence and an understanding of the nine essential workplace
skills. This knowledge will better provide understanding and increase future opportunity. The educational sessions, which will be delivered in a culturally appropriate circle setting, will include one to one and a half hour tutoring personalized sessions or similar time to small group classes or Poundmaker's Lodge Executive Director Brad Cardinal and ST. Albert Further workshops. Education Executive Director Cheryl Dumont sign an MOU to offer educational “The intent of the and training programs to clients in recovery at Poundmaker's Lodge. initiative is to support clients who have low external service provider,” noted Cardinal. “We believe literacy levels,” noted Cardinal. “We believe the enhanced that much was lost from the residential school experience individual support has much therapeutic value in terms of and this program supports learning in a culturally safe, increasing esteem, increasing engagement and also respectful way. The St. Albert Literacy Foundation is supports educators in learning the Indigenous worldview. committed to its intent. In fact, I’d like to thank Cheryl, Educators will attend orientation and will follow all especially for the way she approached us in a very cultural protocols while in attendance. It is our intent to respectful way, a kind and compassionate way that was continue to invest in this important partnership. We believe heartfelt and intent; that’s how we will work together that this valuable partnership supports reconciliation and toward meaningful reconciliation projects that will both parties continue to be invested in its success.” improve opportunities for our Indigenous people. “The “Our goal, as adult educators,” stated Dumont, “is to intent is to continue to invest in this important partnership; help foundational learners who for whatever reason could we believe that it supports reconciliation and both parties not finish school. Our job is to step in and help increase continue to be invested in its success.” confidence, boost knowledge and encourage participation. Dumont said she is looking forward to working with the When you are on a journey to fight an addiction, it is young men and women who decide to participate in the important to have the tools you need to move forward educational opportunity that is expected to get underway once you have regained your strength; remember you can near the end of March. Literacy, financial and digital continue to pursue your educational journey after (computer) mastery are among the course that will be completing your program at Poundmaker’s.” offered. Another course is designed for pregnant mothers Dumont believes that the meeting of the two and deals with positive family values and building healthy organizations might have been pre-destined. relationships. “Poundmaker’s was established in 1973,” she noted, STFE and its members offer the general public courses “and just a year later, in 1974, St. Albert Further Education which can include arts and crafts, personal development, was introduced. We were on a similar path and maybe photography, social media, parenting, sports, fitness and even destined to meet in the future - here today is that music. The association also runs an adult literacy program future.” and an English language learning program called STAR Dumont noted that the initiative came about as a result Literacy. These programs match volunteer tutors with of STFE’s decision to move forward and participate in the adult students who wish to improve their reading, writing, Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s call for 94 numeracy, computer or English language skills recommendations, at least one of which addresses Further education foundational programs are funded by education. She spoke briefly on the legacy of the schools the Alberta Government and operate in every region of and the harm they created for ongoing generations of Alberta. The program has served as a model for other Indigenous people, noting that those consequences provinces and has garnered interest from across the world. included “many young people dropping out of school who “We hope that other jurisdictions will see what we are don’t have the literacy skills they need to be successful and doing and contact us for information,” noted Dumont. competitive in today’s environment.” “We’d like to see communities from across the province The need to ensure that literacy issues are dealt with in get on board so we can ensure that every person we help an educational setting is also important to Poundmaker’s. with their education can continue no matter where they “We will continue to support our clientele with their live in Alberta.” learning needs and encourage engagement with the
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March, 2019
Alberta Native News
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Indigenous tourism will be featured at River Cree Resort on April 2 (March 2019) - Indigenous Tourism Alberta (ITA), with a mandate to grow the Indigenous tourism economy in Alberta, will host its first annual Alberta Indigenous Tourism Summit on April 2, 2019 at the River Cree Resort & Casino on Enoch Cree Nation. In this inaugural Indigenous tourism summit for Indigenous ITA, the organization is hosting a one-day gathering of Indigenous tourism operators, Indigenous community leaders and industry supporters sharing opportunities and best practices to build, grow and succeed in the rapidly growing industry of authentic Indigenous tourism. Indigenous Tourism Alberta has organized a full day of speakers, panels and group discussions to help Indigenous entrepreneurs and Indigenous communities discover pathways to success in Indigenous tourism. This event will bring together those interested in or actively operating in Alberta’s rapidly growing Indigenous tourism industry. AITS2019 participants will learn about significant economic opportunities while respectfully sharing Indigenous cultural experiences. The Summit topics in the one-day agenda will concentrate on both business development and marketing while also providing broader perspective to the significant Indigenous tourism economic opportunity. Summit participants will gain a better understanding of how to establish or grow their business through improving their business readiness. Marketing presentations by industry
experts will include information on developing effective tourism marketing content and using social media to maximize your marketing success. The first annual Alberta Indigenous Tourism Summit welcomes Hal Eagletail, owner of Eaglestar Enterprises as the Summit Emcee. Confirmed speakers include Cowboy Smithx, an Indigenous Filmmaker and founder of REDx Talks, Bill Alexander, Executive Chef at the Grey Eagle Resort & Casino and Shayne Chartrand, Executive Chef at SC, the premier restaurant at the River Cree Resort & Casino. “It’s important that Indigenous tourism entrepreneurs in Alberta have an event like this to learn and share,” said Tarra Wright Many Chief, Executive Director of ITA. “This event will be an important opportunity to come together to build and succeed in the quickly growing Indigenous tourism industry while sharing culture and growing the Indigenous economy in Alberta. ITA is also proud to announce that the Summit event partners are Travel Alberta and Alberta Culture and Tourism.” Incorporated in 2018 as a not-for-profit society, ITA provides leadership in the development and marketing of authentic Indigenous tourism experiences across Alberta through innovative partnerships. The ITA board consists of 7 board members representing Indigenous tourism businesses from across Alberta. Indigenous tourism currently generates $130 million in spending in Alberta, providing jobs and supporting entrepreneurs, businesses
National Inquiry offers funding for gatherings and events (March 2019) - The National Inquiry Vancouver into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls is offering funding assistance for organizations to host community gatherings and events to further the healing of families and survivors of violence and to mark the occasion of the end of the National Inquiry’s mandate. “We’ve heard from families across the country, from our Grandmothers, Elders and working groups that there is a desire for communities to come together to commemorate the conclusion of the Truth Gathering process and the delivery of the Final Report,” said Chief Commissioner Marion Buller. “We are pleased to support local events that will bring First Nations, Metis and Inuit communities together for the benefit of those affected by the national tragedy of missing and murdered indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA people.” Indigenous-led organizations and organizations with a demonstrated commitment to supporting families of
missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA people are invited to submit an Expression of Interest application by April 2, 2019 for funding up to a maximum of $25,000. “There is a recognition that healing needs to take place at the individual and community level,” said Commissioner Brian Eyolfson. “We know how much the support of the community means to families and survivors, and the positive difference it can make in the healing process. Facilitating this is really an extension of our aftercare support services mandate.” Examples of eligible events may include feasts, traditional ceremonies, healing events and gatherings. Events must occur after funding approval and by June 30,
and communities. Tickets for the Indigenous Tourism Summit are $75 and are now on sale and include breakfast and lunch. There is also a special rate of $50 for community elders. Go to IndigenousTourismAlberta.ca/Summit for more Summit information. 2019, the end of the National Inquiry’s mandate. “The National Inquiry exists because families advocated for it for years,” said Commissioner Qajaq Robinson. “It’s only fitting that they are able to commemorate the conclusion of the process.” On April 30, 2019, the Commissioners will release the National Inquiry’s Final Report. The report will deliver concrete recommendations that will enhance and ensure the safety of First Nations, Metis and Inuit women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA individuals. “As we consulted across the country, we saw that communities are still fractured from the effects of racism and colonialism,” said Commissioner Michèle Audette. “With the release of the Final Report and its recommendations, we support communities to mark a new way forward. We cannot change the past, but we can work together to shape a better future and a new Canada.” A complete application form can be found at mmiwgffada.ca.
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Alberta Native News
Broken Systems Failed Tina Fontaine Manitoba Advocate for Children and Youth (MACY) Daphne Penrose has released a special report that sheds new light on the brutal death of Tina Fontaine and the heartbreaking circumstances surrounding her death in 2014. The report is entitled A Place Where It Feels Like Home: The Story of Tina Fontaine. “We all failed Tina Fontaine,” state the Commissioners of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. “Tina fell through the cracks of every single system that is supposed to protect vulnerable children and youth. Tina’s death could and should have been prevented.” NWAC Executive Director Lynne Groulx added, “This report demonstrates the desperate need for coordination amongst services. Communities and families of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls have asked for these services for far too long.” The 115-page report was released in Tina Fontaine’s home community of Sagkeeng Nation and it describes how Tina Fontaine’s life unfolded from birth to death. Simultaneously, it shares the underlying issue of how failed legislation and policies affected her life before birth. The effects of colonization, residential school and the Sixties Scoop have continued a cycle that many grandparents and parents continue to struggle with that spills through generations. The report offers five recommendations in the areas of education, health and mental wellness, victim support services and child and family services. Ms. Penrose revealed her office will be tracking government compliance with the recommendations publicly. AFN National Chief Perry Bellegarde says the report underscores the need to address long-standing failures in approaches by governments across a range of systems, in regard to the care and safety of First Nations children. “This report lays bare the reality that First Nations children and families are still impacted by a history of colonialism and government policies aimed at breaking apart our cultures, our families and our nations,” said National Chief Bellegarde. “Children are our most sacred gifts from the Creator, and the systems that should be protecting them are failing them. I continue to offer support to the family and friends of Tina Fontaine as they seek justice and healing. The focus now must be reducing risk. We need urgent action by governments and agencies to work with First Nations families, leaders and experts to act on these recommendations among others. Our guiding principle must be the best interests of the child, including fostering strong connections to their kin and their cultures. I look forward to public progress reports on this important work.” The August 2014 death of 15-year old Tina Fontaine drew national attention and highlighted the national priority of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. Raymond Cormier was acquitted of second-degree murder charges by jury in February 2018.
March, 2019
Arts & Stories deadline is March 31
“This report is a clear call to action for the government to work with First Nations to keep our children safe,” said AFN Manitoba Regional Chief Kevin Hart, who holds the portfolio for Child Welfare. “The report states that Manitoba has the highest prevalence rate of missing children and youth in the country. We cannot stand by and wait for another tragedy to prompt action. Our children are the center of the circle of our Indigenous Arts & Stories is the largest art and writing contest for Indigenous nations. We are taking youth in Canada. Pictured above is 'Do Never,' the winning entry from 2018 by action and we must keep Jared Boechler, a 23 year old Metis from Saskatoon. The competition is open to all up momentum. The AFN self-identifying First Nations, Métis and Inuit artists (ages 6-29) to interpret an worked to ensure aspect of their culture and heritage through literary and visual arts for a chance to legislation on First Nations earn prizes and national recognition. For information visit our-story.ca. child welfare was put forward last month that work in the community: like the re-creation of the citizen will support our right and our jurisdiction to take Bear Clan Patrol and a 24-hour safe space for youth in responsibility for our children. This is one piece of much Winnipeg’s inner city, now named Tina’s Haven. That larger reforms that are needed. My thoughts are with the shows the compassion and resilience that exists in people family of Tina Fontaine as they receive this report, and I across this country, and that gives us hope. That is how want today to mark a new beginning in the safety and collectively, we will create lasting change. We carry Tina’s protection of our children.” spirit with us everyday, and honour all the missing and First Nations have called for changes to the justice murdered women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA people system in Canada, including increased representation by through this important work. Each and every one of our First Nations on juries and support for First Nations women and girls are sacred.” approaches to justice, including restorative justice. War Lake First Nation Chief Betsy Kennedy, Assembly Following years of pressure and advocacy for action and of Manitoba Chiefs’ Acting Grand Chief, said: “The tragic reform, last month the federal government introduced death of Tina has been a rallying cry for everyone in federal legislation on Indigenous child welfare that Manitoba to deal with the problems First Nations girls and recognizes First Nations jurisdiction over child and family boys face in their lives, and the many services and services. jurisdictions that deal with First Nations children and The AFN continues to call for a coordinated national youth. An investigation on how to best respond to this sad action plan to provide safety and security for First Nations story was an opportunity for the Manitoba government to women and girls that would include shelters and safe work with First Nations on an inter-jurisdictional basis. spaces, education and training, transportation, daycare and That did not happen.” other supports. The National Inquiry on Missing and “The recommendations, and the public tracking and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls is expected to monitoring of the compliance of them by the MACY, are conclude June 2019. a start to finally deal with the death of Tina Fontaine. A statement from the office of the National Inquiry read However, it does not respond to all the questions and as follows: “It is a terrible truth that there are thousands concerns. Manitoba not only must have the political will more Tina’s across this country. These are our sisters who to only implement these recommendations, but also have disappeared. Every family deserves answers. Tina’s implement what Manitoba First Nations have identified, death forced all of us to search more deeply for answers, as well as fully respond to the report of the National and re-galvanized calls by many courageous families and Inquiry into MMIWG. Finally, we call on the Province of survivors for this National Inquiry into Missing and Manitoba and the Government of Canada to work together Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. with the AMC on an independent inquiry into the death of “This tragedy also sparked some incredible grassroots Tina Fontaine.”
March, 2019
Alberta Native News
Dreamspeakers
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film,” noted Frederick. “After editing the work, we would screen them, and the feedback was tremendous. We have many years of archived films created by youth from across Alberta. It’s a beautiful treasure trove of work that one of our former employees, Carla Ulrich, will be viewing and putting together a retrospect that celebrates Indigenous youth and the art they create. This will give us a great opportunity to reconnect with the youth and the many people who have been involved with Dreamspeakers over the years.” Frederick noted that between 23 and 40 films are usually screened during the Dreamspeakers Festival, but the final tally will depend on the number of short films that have been submitted. “All of our films are in now and are currently being looked at by our selection committees so it will be a couple of weeks yet before we know the exact number of films we will be showing this year.” Audiences can expect similar numbers this year; there will definitely be many interesting feature films and short films to take in. ‘There is one film in particular that I know audiences will be thrilled to see - and I am really looking forward to presenting it. It has just been confirmed that filmmaker Darlene Naponse’s film, Falls Around Her, will be part of our feature films presentation.” Falls Around Her stars acclaimed Canadian actress Tantoo Cardinal. The film premiered at the Toronto International Film festival in 2018 and was subsequently screened as the opening gala of the imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival in October, where it won the Air Canada Audience Choice Award. “One of the great things about this stunning film,” noted Frederick, “is that despite the tremendous career that Tantoo has had as a trailblazer and an amazing artist, this is apparently the first film in which she plays the lead.” I won’t share the synopsis of the film; I’ll leave that surprise for the audiences that attend this year’s festival.
Judging has come a long way since the first Dreamspeakers events, something that Frederick says she is really proud of. “We have really evolved since those early days,” she explained, noting that “once we not only hosted the event, but also helped in selecting the films. Over the years we have had fantastic support from the whole industry and from the community at large. Today we have a film selection committee that includes some of our board members, but also members of our community who are It has just been confirmed that filmmaker Darlene Naponse's award winning film filmmakers themselves. 'Falls Around Her' starring Tantoo Cardinal, will be part of the feature films We also have an presentation at the 2019 Dreamspeakers Festival. international curator who works in tandem with the selection committee; his name is Dreamspeakers Festival Society. She is the first Antonio Coello. He is a remarkable artist who has worked Indigenous Associate Artist of the Citadel Theatre, and the with us in the past; we welcome his participation again this first Indigenous board member of the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra. She is former chair of the year.” Coello studied film in Mexico, Spain, and Cuba. His Edmonton Arts Council and former Vice Chair of the work is dedicated to exploring cultural diversity through Alberta Foundation for the Arts. Christine served on the anthropological observation and a sense of humour. He steering, working and selection committee for the ÎNÎW has received several grants supporting his creative work as River Lot 11, one of the first Indigenous Public Art Parks well as awards for his short films. He is currently working in the world. She is the recipient of the 2007 Esquao Award in Arts, and the 2016 Mayor’s Award for on Seven Edges, his first full-length feature film. Christine Sokaymoh Frederick is an urban Aboriginal Excellence in Artistic Leadership. No matter what type of film you enjoy you can be Cree-Métis residing in Edmonton, Alberta. She is cofounder and the artistic director of Alberta Aboriginal assured that you’ll find it at this year’s Dreamspeakers Performing Arts and produces the annual Rubaboo Film Festival. For details see dreamspeakers.org. Festival and is the Executive Director of the
Engagement Sessions scheduled for Métis Sixties Scoop Survivors (March 2019) – Engagement sessions across the Métis Homeland hosted by Métis Nation Governing Members will be held over the next two months for Métis survivors of the ‘Sixties Scoop’. As a follow up to the National Symposium on Métis 60s Scoop Survivors that brought together Métis survivors and their families, held in Winnipeg on October 19-21, 2018, these engagement sessions will hear further from Métis 60s Scoop survivors from across Canada. These engagement sessions will help inform the federal government in addressing the legacy of the 60s Scoop on the Métis and to reconcile its harmful effects. The engagement sessions will be held in the following locations: Manitoba Metis Federation (March 15-17: Swan River, Manitoba and March 22-24: Winnipeg), Métis Nation of Alberta (March 29-31: Edmonton), Métis Nation – Saskatchewan (April 5-7: Saskatoon), Métis Nation of Ontario (April 12-14: Toronto) and Métis Nation British Columbia (April 26-28: Richmond). Métis 60s Scoop survivors and their families are encouraged to participate and can find information on all the sessions at sixties.scoop.metisportals.ca or by calling
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toll free: 1-800-928-6330 ext 532. At each engagement session, Métis 60s Scoop survivors and their families will be hosted in a safe, respectful, culturally based environment. It is an opportunity for survivors to meet with other survivors and to access support and counselling if required. The ‘Sixties Scoop’ scans an era from the 1950s through 1990s during which thousands of Indigenous children were apprehended by provincial Child and Family agencies, placed in foster homes and adopted by nonIndigenous families throughout Canada and the United States. In 2016, the federal government announced that it would settle numerous civil lawsuits related to the Sixties Scoop initiated by First Nations and Inuit in Canada. “This is one of many ways that survivors will have the opportunity to share their insights into the development of a Métis Nation Sixties Scoop
resolution. It is important to us that survivors are given every chance to join in and be heard to help shape how this work will be done,” says Clément Chartier, President of the Métis National Council. “We know our survivors have suffered and continue to struggle with the trauma experienced at the hands of Canada. The intergenerational impacts are still being felt by our families and survivors today,” states David Chartrand, Métis National Council Vice-President and Minister of Social Development, noting that healing the survivor will heal the family, community and ultimately bring peace to the Métis Nation. While the First Nations and Inuit have achieved reconciliation through civil action lawsuits against Canada, the Métis Nation is taking an unprecedented approach to reconciliation based on its nation-to-nation relationship with Canada. These engagement sessions will inform the Métis Nation on how it works with Canada on this issue to advance reconciliation concerns.
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Alberta Native News
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March, 2019