Volume 34 Number 09 September, 2017
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Cover art: Detail from "Bird at My Moms" Š by Linus Woods. On exhibit at Bearclaw Gallery in Edmonton, see article on page 2.
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Alberta Native News
September, 2017
Linus Woods featured at Bearclaw Gallery: Sept. 23 – Oct. 4 The beautiful image on the cover of the September 2017 issue of Alberta Native News is “Bird at My Moms” and it’s a detail from an acrylic painting by Linus Woods, an extremely gifted artist from the Long Plain First Nation in Manitoba. “Bird at My Moms” is part of an extraordinary installation of new works by Linus Woods that will be on exhibit at Bearclaw Gallery in Edmonton until October 4. The exhibit, entitled “See My Shadow Fly,” opens on September 23 and 24, coinciding with the Fall Gallery Walk Weekend on 124 Street in Edmonton. Linus Woods will be in attendance at the gallery on September 23 from 1-4 pm. The focal point of the upcoming exhibition has been described by the artist in a fluid and poetic manner: “See my shadow fly out of the corner of a watering eye. A life in art is free like a bird. A Kestral Hawk lives by my house in Long Plain Reserve and in the winter, they fly to the mountains of Peru. I am lucky and free to paint whatever I want. I paint every animal on Mother Earth.” Many of Linus’ paintings feature animals and in particular, horses as a central figure. He explains his fascination and appreciation of horses, “Of all the animals, the horse was the best friend of the Indian. Without it he could not go on long journeys. A horse was the Indian’s most valuable piece of property. If an Indian wished to gain something, he promised that if the horse will help him, he will paint it with native dyes. All may see that help has come to him through the aid of his horse, paraded around camp just before evening.”
Linus, born in 1967, is a descendant of Sioux and Ojibway parents. He is primarily a self-taught artist with his own distinctive style, although he did study art at Brandon University and honed his skills in Edmonton. Since 1994, Linus has traveled extensively throughout North America intent on acquiring native legends and folklore from the different Aboriginal nations across Turtle Island. During this time, Linus participated in many ceremonies and experienced cultures steeped in their distinctive tradition. In some cases, he lived with people who only spoke in their native language and practiced a traditional way of life. It is these experiences that have influenced Linus’ works and that are the subject of many of his paintings. Linus loves creating art and he also enjoys helping to educate youth about the joy and power of art. While living in Edmonton, he has been Artist in Residence at Highland Junior High School where he has worked with students and delighted in their ability to “create something beautiful and vocalize themselves through artistic expression.” Linus has received numerous awards and prizes for his art work. His paintings hang in many corporate and private collections throughout Canada and the USA and he has participated in exhibitions across Canada as well as in New York and a sold-out show in Los Angeles. Linus has had six feature exhibitions at Bearclaw Gallery since 2007. Bearclaw Gallery, located at 10403 124 Street in Edmonton is well-known and highly regarded as a fine
St. Albert Healing Garden captures the essence of reconciliation By John Copley The St. Albert Healing Garden, or as it is known in Cree, Kåkesimokamik, officially opened to the public on Friday, September 15, 2017 during a late morning pipe ceremony
and celebration of culture on the north banks of the Sturgeon River, along the popular Red Willow Trail. The community-led initiative acknowledges survivors of Indian Residential Schools and is a visible sign of St. Albert’s commitment to work in unison with First Nation, Métis and Inuit peoples, and maintain ongoing and positive relationships with all residents. “The idea for the garden, came from Rev. James Ravenscroft, a former United Church minister in St. Albert,” explained Kelly Jerrott, Cultural Services Director for the City of St. Albert. “He brought the concept forward following a conversation he had with Maggie Hodgson, a wellknown and respected
Painted Horse through Birch II © by Linus Woods
Canadian First Nations art dealer and gallery. Over the last three decades, the Bearclaw Gallery has established solid relationships with First Nations artists from across Canada and has proudly promoted Canadian First Nations and Inuit art and artists to buyers both at home and internationally. For more information and to view new works by Linus Woods electronically visit bearclawgallery.com. addictions program developer and counsellor, women’s advocate, and author.” “This was an exciting collaborative initiative that included input from a community planning committee with participation from residential school survivors, First Nations and Métis communities, the United Church, Catholic Church, St. Albert Arts and Heritage Foundation, Michif Cultural Connections, City of St. Albert and the public," added Jerrott. One of the first of its kind in Canada, The St. Albert Healing Garden was approved by City Council in 2015. A sod-breaking ceremony took place in May, 2017 with construction completed in late August. Funding support for the garden was provided by the City of St. Albert, Government of Canada’s Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program (Western Economic Diversification), Province of Alberta, Anglican Church of Canada’s Healing Response Committee, as well as private and community donors such as St. Albert Rotary Club, St. Albert United Church and Muriel Martin Elementary School. Founded in 1861 by Father Albert Lacombe, St. Albert is the oldest, non-fortified community in Alberta and at one time was the largest agricultural settlement west of Winnipeg. The province’s oldest Métis community, St. Albert was once home to two residential schools: St. Albert Indian Residential School (Youville, located on Mission Hill) and Edmonton Indian Residential School (located near Poundmaker’s Lodge, about six kilometres east of downtown St. Albert). “We’re hopeful the healing garden will bring awareness, Continued on page 7
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Volume 34, Number 9, September 2017 ISSN #08294135 www.albertanativenews.com EDITOR: Deborah Shatz ADVERTISING: Sales 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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AFN: We want Action and Progress As the 42nd session of Parliament begins, Assembly of First Nations National Chief Perry Bellegarde said there needs to be focus from all parties on concrete, practical steps towards building a nation-to-nation relationship between First Nations and Canada. "It's time for Canada's commitments to be translated into action. First Nations have a vision of a renewed nation-tonation relationship with Canada," said National Chief Bellegarde. "Our agenda is based on realizing this vision by taking practical steps that will build a stronger country for all of us. We must fully implement the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, including legislation to its support implementation. We want action and progress on our joint process to review all federal laws and policies to ensure they're consistent with First Nations rights. We expect continued momentum on our work to co-develop an Indigenous Languages Act to save and strengthen our languages. I continue my call for efforts to close the gap in the quality of life between First Nations and Canada through continued and more effective investments." As steps are taken on longer-term work, National Chief Bellegarde called for immediate action to end discrimination in areas where Canada's own courts are demanding action. "We must end the discrimination in the First
Nations child welfare system and call on Canada to immediately and fully implement the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal orders," said National Chief Bellegarde. "Our children cannot wait. Parliament already voted unanimously to inject $155 million into the system, and to honour Jordan's Principle. That has to happen now. We are also concerned that gender discrimination in the Indian Act has to end as ordered by the court in the Descheneaux decision. First Nations are calling on Canada to repeal the problematic areas of the Indian Act in favour of First Nations' authority over First Nations' citizenship. No one should have to wait for justice." The National Chief and AFN will be engaging with Parliamentarians from all parties throughout the session and beyond to ensure these priorities are understood and supported. The AFN also welcomed the recent changes to the federal cabinet as significant steps toward restoring and revitalizing the nation-to-nation relationship between First Nations and the Crown. "First Nations have a government-to-government, nation-to-nation relationship with the Crown, as reflected in the Treaties and other agreements," said National Chief Bellegarde. "The recent announcement of a Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs and a Minister of Indigenous Services signals a new approach to increasing action across our agenda. First Nations are working to move beyond the Indian Act and re-asserting our jurisdiction and sovereignty over our own lands, title and rights."
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Alberta Native News
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Thousands gather for historic Elders event By John Copley On Monday, September 11, 2017 several thousand Indigenous Elders from Canada’s First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities gathered in Edmonton, Alberta, and in doing so not only made history, but carved out a template to help ensure a lasting history. The day also fulfilled the vision of Tallcree Tribal Government Host Nation Chief Rupert Meneen, a vision he’d been talking to his Elders about for some time hosting a National Gathering of Elders (NGE) event. The first speaker to address the gathering, Chief Meneen thanked the prayer givers, the drummers and dancers, volunteers, Elders and the thousands in attendance for their participation and support. “This gathering marks the first time in Canada’s history that First Nations, Métis and Inuit Elders and seniors from every region of the country have come together in the spirit of friendship and reconciliation,” stated Chief Meneen. “Building on the theme ‘Coming Home - Voices of Elders,’ the gathering is intended to be a place for laughter and the opportunity for the creation of longlasting connections. We have the opportunity with this gathering to show you, our Elders, that we value your words, we value your teachings, and we honour your legacy and resilience.” The September 11-14 NGE event took place in the spacious Hall D auditorium at the Northlands Expo Centre; a capacity crowd nearing 5,500 Elders, dancers, event organizers, volunteers, and participants, coupled with a steady stream of spectators, ensured that the venue maintained a full-house status throughout the event. Co-emcee’s George Tuccaro (Mikisew Cree First Nation) and Elder Tom Ghostkeeper (Paddle Prairie Métis Settlement) were the first on the podium. They kept the large audience smiling with some one-liners, talked about the importance of the first-ever gathering of its kind in Canada and introduced the Parade of Nations, a long and winding line of Grand Entry participants as they danced their way into and around the large facility in a colourful display of Indigenous pageantry and culture. As the day began opening prayers were delivered by Elders Mike Beaver (First Nation), Doreen Bergum and Francis Dumais (Métis) and Goota Desmarais (Inuit). Elders’ Advisory Council members Alice Kaquitts and Jenny Meneen were the first to address the gathering. “I am honoured to have been invited to sit on the Elders’ Advisory Council,” began Elder Kaquitts, a member of the Morley, Alberta-based Stoney Nakoda Nation. “I hope that this gathering will induce a sense of pride within the Elders and the youth, both personally and within their nations. Today is a time to feel good and to enjoy each other but it is also a time for discussion and for learning; I thank everyone who is participating in this important event.” Elder Jenny Meneen noted that “this is my first time
being involved with the Elders at a gathering like this - with First Nations, Métis and Inuit. I am so proud to be here today as a First Nations person and it is so nice to see so many off our youth join together today with our leaders and Elders. No matter what The Parade of Nations Grand Entry included many prominent Indigenous leaders Indigenous language we speak, or how our cultures may differ, we can talk together about the issues and we proud to be a part of such a great journey. Together we will can share our ideas. I want you all to have fun and to feel share our cultures, our stories, our traditions; this is truly honoured for being here today to support this national an historic event that will hopefully mark the beginning of many more to come.” gathering.” Leadership Council Member Gerald Cunningham said, The first day of the NGE began with an enthusiastic and “This historic event provides an ideal opportunity to not supportive capacity crowd and a line-up of speakers that only share our cultures and knowledge with each other, but included Chiefs, Elders, government representatives and with non-Indigenous Canadians; knowledge is power also members of the Elders’ Advisory Council. Several National Gathering Leadership Council members spoke Continued on page 6 about the significance of the first-ever gathering of Elders and seniors; they included Audrey Poitras, President of the Métis Nation of Alberta, Gerald Cunningham, President of the Métis Settlement General Council and AFN Regional (Alberta) Chief Craig Makinaw. “It is very exciting to see so many people gathered here today in the spirit of sharing and learning,” Poitras beamed, lauding the efforts of the organizers, welcoming guests from both near and far and thanking “the Elders for their prayers and for guiding us in the right direction. It is so nice to see so many Indigenous leaders here with our federal, provincial and municipal partners supporting our Elders and being a part of this great occasion. “As one of many Indigenous nations gathered here today, we are
Gathering of Elders emcees Tom Ghostkeeper and George Tuccaro. Photo by Terry Lusty.
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and events like these are about sharing knowledge and bridging cultural gaps so that we can all work together for a better future.” Cunningham also spoke about climate change, the need for better health care, meaningful reconciliation and the Métis Settlements’ ongoing work with the Alberta government to create a framework for self-governance and its current work with Ottawa as they seek “respect and recognition for our unique Métis rights.” Alberta’s Métis Settlements are the first legislated landbased Métis communities in Canada. Regional Chief Craig Makinaw lauded the Elders and seniors who made their way to Edmonton for the NGE event. He thanked the Chiefs and leaders and others who participated in putting the event together and emphasized the “important role fulfilled by the Elders’ Advisory Council and the many volunteers,” whose cumulative efforts helped to bring a full year's worth of work and planning to fruition. “It is humbling,” said Makinaw, “to be part of such a large gathering of Elders who are here to share their knowledge; it’s a blessing to have them all here.” Treaty 6 Grand Chief Dr. Wilton Littlechild, a visionary whose dedicated work helped to bring the World Indigenous Games to Edmonton this summer (July 1-9, 2017), was introduced to the podium by George Tuccaro, who called the internationally renowned Chief, “a longtime hero and a role model to many people here today.” Grand Chief Littlechild thanked the Elders, dignitaries, participants and spectators and offered a special thank-you to Chief Meneen for “his vision and to everyone responsible for assembling this amazing and powerful collection of Indigenous wisdom and rich diversity. This week is also a commemoration of the 10th Anniversary of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. I mention this because there are two specific references to the rights of Elders in the Declaration - but also a very important third article that recognizes traditional knowledge of Indigenous peoples as the keepers of those sacred teachings - traditional knowledge, which of course, is you - the Elders who have gathered here today.” He went on to tell a humorous story about asking the United Nations to allow a group of Indigenous Elders to offer a prayer before the assembly got underway. Until that day, prayers and/or invocations, were not allowed at United Nations meetings, but after the visiting Elders had finished their prayer, that policy changed. “Thanks to you, our Elders,” said Littlechild, to a rousing round of applause, “every meeting that now takes place at the United Nations begins with a prayer.” National Grand Chief and head of the Assembly of First Nations, Chief Perry Bellegarde spoke briefly but powerfully about Indigenous nations and the future. “When we gather as First Nations and as Indigenous peoples,” said the National Chief, “we don’t want to use our Elders to simply open or close meetings. We need more than ever now to draw upon your wisdom, your guidance, your teachings, your prayers and your ceremonies to deal with something that is not only hurting Canada, but the world - and that is climate change. We need your help now because when you look at Mother Earth, she is suffering - the water and air are suffering. We need your prayers and guidance now to help us deal with this important issue.” Chief Bellegarde addressed several issues and told the Elders that “we also need your help and guidance when it comes to reconciliation, missing and murdered women and girls and we need your help to address the TRC’s Calls for Action and we need help as we move forward to revitalize our cultures and our languages. If we are to have
Rupert Meneen
Wilton Littlechild
Clement Chartier
Audrey Poitras
Perry Bellegarde
Gerald Cunningham
Craig Makinaw
Rachel Notley
these things for our future generations we need your help now.” Clement Chartier, President of the Métis National Council, talked briefly about the decade he spent in residential school and focused on the positive reinforcement he received from Elders and leaders he met early in life. “When I was a younger man, back in the 1970s,” he explained, “I had the opportunity to meet and to learn from several Métis Nation Elders including Ross Cummings, Louis Morin and Jonus Clark. Also from First Nations Elders - William Joseph, Lazarus Roan and Albert Rechi. They taught me a lot and they set me off on the right path. William Joseph was a great man, a spiritual leader who bestowed upon me the protection of the thunderbird. He gave me a medicine pouch and he gave me a lot of knowledge. That knowledge was very helpful to me in the 1980s when I, and others, came under attack in Nicaragua.” Chartier spoke about the power of Indigenous spiritualism and the importance of knowledge and wisdom that has been passed down by Elders throughout the ages. He told the audience that he “strongly believe(s) that the prayers and wisdom of the Elders, the protection of the thunderbird, the power of that medicine the sweetgrass that blessed our post,” saved his life when their entire party managed to escape. “The spiritualism of our Elders is strong and with that I know that eventually we will succeed and it will be because of the wisdom and spiritualism of our Elders.” Prime Minister Trudeau didn’t take the podium but he did deliver a positive video message and offer his and the federal government’s sincere congratulations on the NGE conference. Among other things Trudeau spoke about reconciliation, noting, “as we move forward on the path to reconciliation, we know there is much more to do - but thanks to leaders like you I know we can build a better future for Indigenous people and a more just and inclusive world for all of us.” Alberta Premier Rachel Notley then took to the podium and said, “I am so honoured to be able to attend today's celebration here on Treaty 6 territory.
And I acknowledge the Metis people who share a deep connection to this land. We are so honoured be the first province to host this first-ever national gathering of Elders. The work that you do here will be an example of partnership and cooperation for all Albertans and for all Canadians. We welcome you and look forward to your wisdom and your experience - and we look forward to the advice and recommendations that come out of this forum. “When our government came into office in 2015 a top priority was a stronger relationship with Indigenous people. It was time to work toward fairness and reconciliation, to build respect and partnerships and new opportunities for the future. We heeded the TRC’s calls for action on urgent matters and we made a commitment to engage closely and respectfully with Indigenous peoples and organizations on economic, social and cultural issues. We pledged to live up to the principles of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and we are now acting on those commitments. To date we’ve made direct investments in social, economical and cultural areas and we’ve made sure there is additional participation in our climate leadership plan. “Our country has a shameful record of making sure that Indigenous communities have clean and reliable drinking water - this is unacceptable! We are working with First Nations and the Federal government and through the leadership of our Indigenous Relations Minister, Richard Feehan, our government is addressing this historic wrong and have set aside $100 million to help communities to get access to clean, reliable drinking water here in Alberta.” The first day of the NGE conference also offered a video presentation on Canada’s Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and concluded with A Taste of Indigenous Culture, with well-known and talented entertainers that included the Métis Child and Family Jiggers, Crystal Shawanda, First Nations dancers and the Dene Tha Drum Group.
Northern Alberta's Dene Tha Drummers were among the outstanding performers that providing wonderful cultural entertainment during the 2017 National Gathering of Elders.
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September, 2017
Alberta Native News
Healing Garden
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education and cultural teachings to the community,” said St. Albert Mayor Nolan Crouse. “It is one of the many ways we can answer the calls to action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.” A multifaceted initiative, The St. Albert Healing Garden will actively acknowledge survivors of Indian Residential Schools and provide a place where truth and reconciliation can thrive and grow. It will be a therapeutic sanctuary for survivors of Indian Residential Schools, where the community can come together to learn, grow and heal from the pain and loss that was endured as a result of a system that tore families apart and uprooted cultures. A sensory garden, central gathering area and pathway make up the space. Each area speaks to the four natural elements of earth, air, fire, water – with the overall space designed to align with the four cardinal directions. “There will be ongoing activity in the garden,” noted Jerrott, who said plans are already underway “to develop initiatives with schools, Indigenous individuals and communities, as well as local community organizations such as the Musée Héritage Museum and Michif Cultural Connections.” The cool morning, caressed with a light wind and dimmed by a dense mist of hazy fog saw several hundred
in attendance, with a long line of Grand Entry participants that included Mayor Crouse, Elders Tony Arcand, Francis Whiskeyjack, Myrtle Calahasen and Margaret Auger, as well as planning committee members, residential school survivors, RCMP members, City of St. Albert staff, local Métis and Indigenous community members, St. Albert school students and members of the public. “I could tell the event was going to be both successful and memorable when the sky opened up and the sun revealed itself in a beam of light that shone across the pathway just as the Grand Entry got underway,” smiled Jerrott. “It was a special day and a very educational one as well. The City is very pleased and proud to be involved in this project and to support the The official ribbon cutting of the St. Albert Healing Garden. recommendations as described by the Truth Photo by Marc Chalifoux and Reconciliation Commission.” A variety of dancers, singers and entertainers ensemble that includes dozens of musically-talented participated in the official opening including Jesse Morin Grade 3 to 6 students who attend Prince Charles School in and the River Cree Singers, Alexander First Nation Edmonton. For more information on The St. Albert Healing Garden, drummers, Amanda Lamothe, dancer Marguerite Auger, visit stalbert.ca. please dancer Mark McKennitt, hoop dancer Kelsey Wolver and the ever-popular Prince Charles Fiddle Group, an
IAAW to host Indigenous Women’s Justice Forum: October 3 & 4 By John Copley The Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women (IAAW) will host the 2017 Indigenous Women’s Justice Forum to create an opportunity for Indigenous women, government and institutional leaders to discuss changes needed to the justice system for improved outcomes for Indigenous women. “Those who attend the conference,” noted IAAW CEO, Rachelle Venne, “will explore what is happening to/for Indigenous women in the courtroom, the correctional system, within policing services and in the home communities. Through facilitated workshops and table discussions, we will plan what to do in our families, communities, and institutions.” Together with women who will share their stories at the conference, the IAAW and community partners, guest speakers, researchers, and government leaders will present a variety of information that will help participants form a series of creative, positive and collaborative recommendations for the IAAW to lead, co-lead, or present throughout the coming year. “We recently partnered with the Women’s Legal Education and Action Fund (LEAF) and have worked together on 3 recent court cases,” explained Venne, noting that the Partnership has been granted Intervenor status in the Cindy Gladue/Bradley Barton appeals case. An Ontario truck driver, Barton was acquitted by a jury of his peers in 2015 of the 2014 death of Cindy Gladue, a decision that the Alberta Court of Appeals quickly rejected. The three-panel Justice was harshly critical of Judge Robert Graesser and the long list of mistakes that he made in his charge to the jury. The Appeals Court decision, rendered by Alberta Chief Justice Catherine Frazer, noted that “despite efforts to thwart them, myths and stereotypes continue to stalk the halls of justice in cases involving
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sexual offences, enabled sometimes by inadequate jury charges.” Venne noted that the Justice Forum would also be looking at the ruling by the Canadian Judicial Council that saw Federal Court Justice Robin Camp removed from the bench, and at the case involving "Angela Cardinal, a sexual assault victim who was held in jail for four days to ensure she was available to testify.” The forum gets underway with an overview of these three cases to explore what changes are required and an opening panel to share what is happening from their perspective. In breakout workshops following the panel, participants will explore what is the first stop into the justice system, such as family violence and on-line predators. Then the second series of workshops discuss what kind of information and tools can be shared that will help those who are trying to navigate the justice system themselves or have a family member or friend that needs help to prepare. The second day of the forum includes women sharing their experiences and participating in a discussion that asks the question: What can we do to prepare our young women and girls? This will be followed by an action-planning session and conversation about what participating individuals learned at the forum and what they can each take home with them. During the last several years, explained Venne, “the IAAW has supported and held many demonstrations, walks and meetings to create awareness of the disproportionate numbers of Indigenous women involved
with the justice system and discuss ways to improve outcomes. We work collaboratively with police, government, educational institutions and other organizations to lead positive change. Most importantly we bring together Indigenous women who are strong, resilient and knowledgeable to implement women-led initiatives in many Alberta communities. “This Indigenous Women’s Justice Forum provides an opportunity for the participants to learn and to share their experiences. Talking together and working together we will come up with solutions and recommendations that we can work with as we move forward.” The IAAW is a non-profit organization with a head office in Edmonton with outreach to several chapter communities in the province. Established in Alberta’s capital in 1995 as a non-profit society, IAAW has continued to grow over the years and currently offers specialized services for Indigenous women including after-crisis supports that build confidence and foster independence. The IAAW recognizes the significant role Indigenous women hold in the community and seeks ways to include them in the decisions. For more information about the upcoming 2017 Indigenous Women’s Forum call 780-479-8195, toll free to 1-877-471-2171 or email kbrisson@iaaw.ca. For more information about the IAAW visit iaaw.ca.
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Borealis art exhibit cultivates messages of hope and unity By Regan Treewater A compelling installation entitled 'The Dream We Form By Being Together' opened at the Borealis Gallery, housed at the Alberta Legislative Assembly, on June 29. The exhibition will remain on public display until October 1 promising patrons a thought provoking journey of introspective societal and personal reflection. As the show's coordinator Barbara Hilden explained in a recent interview ongoing reconciliation is the centre piece of the exhibition. “There is a distinct narrative to the progression of the works as one moves through the gallery space,” noted Hilden, “and it all leads to an interactive component we hope will inspire people to really consider the meaning of reconciliation.” After moving through the gallery patrons are given the opportunity to write postcards chronicling their own personal regrets. “It's a catharsis,” she explained. “They confront what they are most ashamed of just as we must confront a historical legacy that we too are less than proud of. If people can experience reconciliation within themselves this can be more easily transposed onto the larger picture.” While galleries across the country have unveiled exhibitions in honour of Canada's 150, Hilden is careful to make the distinction that she and her fellow visionary Dr. Troy Patenaude never conceived of their endeavor as a commemoration of 150 years of history, but rather, as a project to help Canadians come to terms with the greater narrative: “It's about taking visitors on a journey to understand reconciliation - as it applies to our Indigenous communities, but also as it applies to their own lives,” she added. The exhibition showcases the works of 19 Indigenous artists: Dale Auger, Dick Averns, Jason Carter, James
Davies, Chris Flodberg, Julian Forrest, O.N. Grandmaison, Terrance Houle, Eve Koch, George Littlechild, Dawn Marie Marchand, Pat Nokomis, Tim Okamura, Aaron Paquette, Michel Smith and Tim Van Horn. These artists may not have had reconciliation at the forefront of their initial creative consciousness, but their works are connected by themes of hope. “The ultimate aim of the pieces as a collection is optimistic I think,” explained Hilden. “Only two of our pieces are on loan from private collections, the rest are provided by the Alberta Foundation for the Arts, and although many of them explore and negotiate themes of borders and boundaries, I think the show itself really works to break down borders and boundaries. The title really reflects this sentiment. It highlights, in a very lyrical and poetic way, the necessity for hope and unity moving forward.” Dr. Troy Patenaude, the curator of 'The Dream We Form By Being Together' was celebrated in 2015 by the Alberta Foundation for the Arts' receiving their Emerging Curator Fellowship. An art historian of Metis heritage, Patenaude has remained committed to what he calls “cross-cultural approaches to art” (2015). To provide context for the works selected Patenaude traveled across Alberta visiting First Nations, Metis and other Indigenous communities. He showed 2C rendering of the pieces that would be on display to people from all walks of life in order to document their thoughts and reactions. “Visitors I think, really are able to engage with the show through these stories Troy collected, and it definitely makes it more personal,” commented Hilden. “This accomplishes the 'together' aspect that the show aims to cultivate, and it is
able to achieve this in an extremely tangible way.” As such, many of the pieces are accompanied by a tablet displaying these stories so that patrons can further reflect on the images and ideas they are being confronted with. Humbly, Hilden explained that the exhibition's strength and impact lie in the many diverse contributions that came together. “You have to understand, we plan these exhibits years in advance, 'The Dream We Form By Being Together' has been a project almost two years in the making,” she elaborated. “There was time for our vision to really evolve organically.” As a closing ceremony on September 30, the final Saturday of the show, Hilden and Patenaude are working to organize a panel discussion. “It's going to be in keeping with the messages of hope and unity, and we'll do this through a juxtaposition of perspectives: reactions to the art, personal stories, ideas about reconciliation. We plan to take all the postcards left by those who visited the exhibit and we'll burn them.” The exhibition with be on display until October 1 with free admission. While we as a nation celebrate our achievements over the last 150 years, projects like 'The Dream We Form By Being Together' work to acknowledge a murky past that is only recently being confronted in a public and thoughtful way. “It has to be a part of the show - the Colonialism, the atrocities, the genocide. It's there, and it's absolutely important to the larger narrative,” commented Hilden emphatically. “But we didn't want to make it the focus – 'dreaming', as in the 'dream’ referred to in the title, is all about looking forward.”
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Canada’s plans for Indigenous languages legislation By John Copley Last December Prime Minister Justin Trudeau Ottawa. This fall each of the partner groups will meet in announced that Canada would be co-developing an Ottawa to report on what we’ve learned through these Indigenous Languages Act to preserve, protect and engagements, meetings and consultations. From there we will co-develop a drafting of the legislation before tabling revitalize Indigenous languages. The portfolio, which falls under the auspices of the it and taking it to the House of Commons for a firstDepartment of Canadian Heritage, began working with its reading sometime in 2018.” As the consultations continue several areas of partners, the Assembly of First Nations, the Métis National Council and Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, last winter. In June, importance have already been determined. “We’ve heard rather consistently from most the four parties established a ‘terms of reference’ and then communities that longevity is deemed to be quite set out to begin the community consultation process. A series of themes was established to help guide the important; for instance, the communities don’t want discussions on Indigenous Languages legislation. contract-to-contract or project-to-project funding. Determining the best means to address preservation, Instead they want something long term, something that revitalization and promotion of languages and the types of offers a sense of security in the legislation that will allow protections needed for Indigenous languages were among people to cross the finish line so they can become fluent in those themes. The initiative also wants to find the best Cree or Dene or any language they are pursuing. There’s ways to address the Truth and Reconciliation also been a call to get more young adults and Elders Commission’s Calls to Action, including Call 13 related to involved. Some communities already have established rights recognition, Call 14 with aspects of federal funding initiatives when it comes to training and education and and management by Indigenous Peoples and they have trainers and teachers on staff, while others are communities, and Call 15 on the appointment of an just getting started and will need and want more help developing these areas.” Indigenous Languages commissioner. Virani said that the “uniform piece I’m hearing all the It’s a large task, but one that MP Arif Virani, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian time is that a viable and long-term program isn’t just a Heritage (Multiculturalism), Melanie Joly, is excited about prerequisite, it’s an invaluable part of the solution needed for the recovery of Indigenous peoples in terms of the and looks forward to completing. Virani said that after the four partners met together in legacy of the residential school system, the colonialism, June, “we decided to use the summer to reach out to and the racism that prevailed when it restricted languages different communities around the country. The First and cultures. To replace that legacy, we need to return the Nations, Métis and Inuit communities are each holding language skills so that people can feel confident in who consultations with communities and organizations in their they are - a sense of identity, a sense of belonging, a sense of community that has a positive effect on their own respective areas.” Heritage Canada funding has been provided to the three success - whether that’s educational or economic success, Indigenous groups to allow them to fulfil their career potential and mental and psychological well-being. consultation goals. To balance the initiative and help There are so may positives that can arise from a small ensure a cohesive and comprehensive outcome, Virani is gesture on the front end to reaffirm peoples’ sense of identity and belonging; that’s why we are working so hard also making the rounds. “While the three groups are involved in consultations in - this has to be right as a model we can carry forward.” To date Mr. Virani has met with Indigenous groups in their communities,” he explained, “I also, on behalf of the minister, am travelling around the country talking to southwestern Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and different language experts, institutions and students at Alberta. British Columbia, Atlantic Canada and Quebec those institutions who are (in the process) of learning to are up next. Before moving into his job with the Canadian Heritage speak their own languages.” On September 8, MP Virani visited Edmonton where he Ministry, Virani was the Parliamentary Secretary to the spoke to media and met with Indigenous Languages Ministry of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship. experts, practitioners and community leaders and During a cabinet shuffle, Prime Minister Trudeau moved him from that post and named him Parliamentary members. “It’s been an interesting and educational summer, I Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage imagine for everyone. As we gather information, from a (Multiculturalism). Asked what it was that Mr. Trudeau parliamentary side, we pass what we’ve learned back to saw in his ability that would see him transferred to his
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current post, Virani replied, “that’s a good question,” before noting that he was honoured to serve the PM in any capacity. The fact is that Arif Virani likely has just what it takes to get the job done. He’s not only an educated politician who attended both McGill University (Montreal) and the University of Toronto, but is also a refugee with an Indian background. Born in Uganda, Virani was an infant when he arrived in Canada with his exiled parents in 1972. “The Indigenous Language project has been phenomenal,” he said. “The analogy I can draw is that when consulting with people on the ground about how they want their kids to learn their traditional languages, or how they need to have a sense of belonging, it resonates with me. As a person who came here as a refugee I can certainly understand the importance of connectedness. I would never want to analogize my immigrant experiences to the founding people of this land who've been here for 15,000 years, but at the same time I do understand the importance of language. When I have a Métis mother or an Ojibwe father talking to me about wanting their kids to know their language, a language that was sometimes forcibly taken from them in the residential school system I get it, I understand it.”
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Alberta Native News
September, 2017
Overwhelming response to National Gathering of Elders By Terry Lusty The overwhelming number of delegates to the inaugural National Gathering of Elders said it all. Well over 4000 individuals converged on the Expo Centre at Northlands Park in Edmonton, Alberta, for this first-ever event. Organizers were caught somewhat off guard for what they had largely anticipated as 2500 delegates according to communications worker Anne Gladue who, two months earlier, filled a similar role for the World Indigenous Games at Enoch and Maskwacis First Nation territory. The September 11 to 14 gathering truly provided a magnet for what many claimed to be a "long overdue" event. It became a dream come true that was devised by Treaty 8 Grand Chief Rupert Meneen and the Aboriginal communities responded in a big way as thousands poured in from all across Canada, coast-to-coast-to-coast, including the northern territories and Nunavut. And what a time they had! It really was quite the celebration - of culture, songs, music, dancing, laughter and, yes, connecting with others. For many it was an exciting time that will never be forgotten. If nothing else, it definitely drove home the point that it was an occurrence that people thirsted for, took advantage of, and emptied their pockets and hearts to be part of. For so many it proved to be an electrifying experience. Needless to say, it was truly a successful "coming together" that participants desperately wanted to experience. Well, they'll definitely have that opportunity again, in 2019 when the 2nd National Gathering will be held in Manitoba, likely in Winnipeg with the Peguis First Nation playing host. This fact was largely unknown until the gathering's final day when the sacred fire bundle was formally and ceremoniously transferred from the Alberta organizers, led by Grand Chief Rupert Meneen, who safely and personally placed it into the waiting hands of Peguis Chief Glenn Hudson. As with many major events among Indigenous people, the celebration of culture played a prominent role throughout the four days. Each and every day, culture was front and centre, beginning with morning pipe ceremonies and followed by the day-long calendar of events. Cultural events featured songs, music and dance that were thoroughly enjoyed by attendees who would tap their toes, drum, sing, bob and weave, sweep and sway, and just have an all-around great time. Day One offered a couple of special appearances by singing sensation Crystal Shawanda whose country and blues stylings never fail to excite. The talented artist impressed people at both the Expo Centre and later, that same evening, at the River Cree Hotel and Casino, for the Corporate Sponsors Networking Gala. Then there were the workshops. A few of the more significant sessions offered were the ones that fell under the Elders Forums which focused on: Revitalization of Culture and Language with special guest MP Robert Falcon-Ouellette, and Reconciliation with
These fancy shawl dancers demonstrated their awesome, fast-paced footwork, stunning traditional regalia and love for their Indigenous cultures at the first National Gathering of Elders in Edmonton Sept. 11 - 14.
special guest Dr. Wilton Littlechild, as well as sweat ceremonies, an Elders Talent Show, an Intertribal Showcase, and a Trade Show. Three additional forum sessions were held: Indigenous Cycle of Life with special guest Marilyn Buffalo, Climate Change with AFN regional chief Kevin Hart, and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls with Tanya Kappo. The session on Culture and Language had a full house. A number of the participants stressed the importance of and need to protect Mother Earth and the water. One delegate stated that we should not be relying on government. "We need to do things ourselves." Yet another person addressed education as "our buffalo," given the fact education feeds our brain and expands our knowledge base. This was further explained as a concept for the "acquisition of wisdom." This same concept was reaffirmed by panelist Elmer Ghostkeeper who said that, as a child growing up, he learned "by listening and by acting." As for the younger generation learning their language, he later suggested that, "you need to go to the children and teach them." A Metis in the audience said he wished he'd been in a position to learn his language. Hazel, a woman from B.C., stated, "We should let the Prime Minister know we want our language, we want our language respected." Further to this, the time allowed for teaching language should "be longer." In the Reconciliation workshop, Littlechild explained his struggles in trying to further the rights of Indigenous people and to have them recognized as "equal" to all others. At present, he said, we are still not looked upon as
human. He also informed the Elders that, "your perspectives as Elders and wisdom keepers are so vital to the long-term commitment to reconciliation." Manitoba's Ray Mason said, "There are 478 schools that "never made the grade to be included (in the compensation process). They need justice." Another Manitoban, Jack, from Frost Lake, mentioned his deep concern about water and the ecology. The Elders Talent Show was presented on the final full day, Sept. 13, after the supper break. Originally, it was only meant to run until 9 p.m. but due to high interest and many entries - over 40 - it was extended until midnight. And, as with most older people, the majority of songs were country and western style. Audience reaction was quite high and supportive for all of the presenters. Folks got into the spirit of things by singing along, dancing and simply enjoying themselves. The final day, Sept. 14, zeroed in on the closing ceremonies in addition to a video montage of the previous days’ events and people. Robert Laboucane enjoyed the gathering. "It was interesting, especially the many different people from different places," he said. He hopes to attend the next one in Manitoba. Tammy from Saskatchewan, and Irleen also enjoyed attending. "It was a learning experience; it opened my heart," stated Tammy. She felt badly that we lost so many Elders over the last while, ones who she felt would have loved being a part of the gathering. One of those, she added would have been her mom whom she lost five years ago. "She'd have loved this!" she exclaimed.
September, 2017
Alberta Native News
11
Art Gallery of Alberta features Canada’s imperfect past By Regan Treewater As its title Past Imperfect: A Canadian History Project livelihood. The AGA’s exhibition is full of such stark juxtapositions would suggest the Art Gallery of Alberta’s current showcase is a reflective analysis of 150 years of the best, forcing the viewer to confront history in a way that does not lead them in one direction or another, but that inspires and worst of Canadian achievement. “The exhibition was not intended with ‘celebrat-ion’ as critical analysis – drawing their own conclusions. In an interactive multimedia installation, visitors are a main intent,” commented curator Catherine Crowston. “I think education, reflection and reconciliation were invited to digitally record their thoughts about Canada and reflections on the exhibition. These recordings are then much more important to our thinking.” “In the exhibition, issues that tell of the history of played on a nearby television where other visitors can colonization, racism and oppression – which are definitely watch and listen to these remarks. Some people make silly a part of the 150 years of Canada - are told through faces, some congratulate Canada on its 150th (in both connections to works made by artists from many different French and English), while others are clearly being cultural backgrounds,” she elaborated. “Yes, it was exposed to Canada’s less celebrated legacy for the first very important for the show to have this juxtaposition, time. “I always thought that Canada was the best country in the world because we respect everyone and we treat which is what influenced the selection of the title.” Past Imperfect is uniquely organized with the intention everyone with fairness and dignity,” said one young woman on the video playback. “It’s really upsetting to of taking patrons on a journey of reflective learning. “There are works by 12 Aboriginal artists included in know that we don’t actually treat everyone as fairly as we the exhibition. There are 3 female artists: Pitseolak say we do.” Some works capture Indigenous images without dealing Ashoona, Jane Ash Poitras and Joane Cardinal-Schubert. Their works were selected because of the way they relate specifically with Indigenous issues. Works were not to the specific issues or historical events,” explained selected by Indigenous and Aboriginal artists to only speak Crowston. “The Pitseolak Ashoona was included in a to themes or issues specifically related to only Indigenous section that speaks of the High Arctic re-location in and Aboriginal peoples – and vice versa. As an example, 1953 and 1956 and the subsequent establishment of the Russell Smith and Bill Reid both have works in the Inuit print cooperatives in the late 1950s. We felt that it exhibition that represent beavers. “These were included to was important to highlight the essential contribution of speak to the selection of the beaver as Canada’s national symbol in 1975.” female artists to this history.” Crowston emphasizes that works such as these are James Henderson’s (1871-1951) oil canvas portrait of Chief Crowfoot, painted sometime in 1916, exemplifies especially important as they demonstrate the magnitude of the cultural conceptualization of Indigenous peoples by Indigenous influence on dominant Canadian society. dominant Canadian society. Although by contemporary Ultimately the exhibition aims to bridge all the cultures standards such images scream of stereotyped that make up the Canadian mosaic. “Over the course of the exhibition, we will be hosting objectification, the AGA’s exhibition uses such works to illustrate the evolution of socio-cultural attitudes through community led tours that are intended to raise topics and time. This can also be said of Nicholas de Grandmaison issues within the show, from different cultural (1892-1978) whose 1931 The Valley Flower also hangs in perspectives," said Crawley. Although hope for reconciliation is a connecting thread the gallery space. Its accompanying plaque reads: “While his respect for their autonomy challenged the philosophies that unifies all the works displayed, it is only toward the that emboldened Federal Government policies with end of the exhibition that this essential concept is directly respect to Indigenous people, de Grandmaison’s tendency addressed. As Crowston explains, Children of Light and to romanticize his sitters can also been seen to perpetuate Sound by Norval Morrisseau has accompanying an equally dehumanizing approach.” However, this cannot be said to be entirely indicative of text that reads: "On late 19th and early 20th century artistic attitudes, as works Wednesday June 11, 2008, like that of Frederick Aruthur Verner (1836-1928) avoid the then Prime Minister of objectification when depicting the buffalo hunts that Canada, Stephen Harper sustained Indigenous communities and their economies. (b. 1959), made a Verner’s piece The Buffalo Stampede stands in contrast to Statement of Apology to Henderson and de Grandmaison’s approaches in that it former students of Indian appears to cast a critical gaze upon Eurocentric Canadian Residential Schools, on society for over hunting and crippling indigenous behalf of the Government
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of Canada. On June 1 2008, the Indian Residential Schools Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) was established, by 2015 their findings detailed accounts of what happened to Indigenous children who were physically and sexually abused. An estimated 3,200 children died from tuberculosis, malnutrition and other diseases resulting from poor living conditions. They released 94 Calls to Action urging all levels of government to work together to change policies and programs in an effort to repair the harm caused by residential schools and move towards reconciliation.’ […] We also hoped to address Reconciliation through the post-card interpretive activity, but it is true that Reconciliation was not singled out to be the over-arching theme for the exhibition.” The final piece in the collection is an installation that relies on visitor contributions. On the wall, a prompt asks patrons to respond to a series of questions. The handwritten responses are subsequently posted on the wall alongside the prompt in the shape of Canada’s geographic outline. This is the final image that one sees before exiting – the shape of Canada formed by these scribbled replies. Past Imperfect: A Canadian History Project is certainly not meant to vilify Canada’s past 150 years, but is meant to provoke dialog. As mainstream Canadian education begins to move away from the revisionist history that once dominated our past, we as a nation have been forced to acknowledge and come to terms with uncomfortable truths. While the exhibition is a reminder that reconciliation cannot be achieved until this past is brought into the national consciousness, it also celebrates what it is to be Canadian. Each person that visits the show brings us one step closer to our collective goal of reconciliation.
September, 2017
Alberta Native News
12