Volume 35 Number 09 September, 2018
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Cover art: Detail from "Picking Saskatoons" Š by Leah Dorion. Part of "Dancing the Earth" on exhibit at Art Gallery of St. Albert (temporary location 6D Perron Street, St. Albert). Visit artgalleryof stalbert.ca
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Diabetes workshop draws a full house by John Copley The Marriott Hotel at the River Cree Resort and Casino was a hub of activity on September 12-13 as Diabetes Canada and the Enoch Cree Nation joined in partnership to host an important two-day workshop that provided vital information on a wide range of topics designed to educate workshop participants about managing and preventing diabetes. The workshop attracted a large contingent of Indigenous participants and health care workers who came together to gather and share information critical to minimizing health risks associated with the disease. Hundreds of participants, medical professionals and health care support workers joined together to talk about and listen to the experts who delivered important messages on subjects that included cardiovascular health, foot care, healthy eating, emergencies in diabetes, physical activity and diabetes, mental health, dental care, smoking cessation and more. The number of Canadians being diagnosed with diabetes is increasing dramatically and some of Canada’s top medical experts and researchers say time is of the essence, especially if we are to survive the future with
reasonable to good health and without the many seriously debilitating ailments that accompany the crippling diabetes disease. More than 2.5 million Canadians have already been diagnosed with diabetes and experts fear that up to six million Armand Cardinal more suffer from prediabetes symptoms, a sure sign that in the next few years diabetes will become the new pandemic, one with far-reaching implications. But as bad as those figures are, the situation is much worse for Aboriginal Canadians, whose rates per capita are up to five times higher than the national average. According to the Canadian Diabetes Association, 80 percent of people with diabetes will die as a result of heart disease or stroke; diabetes is a contributing factor in the death of about 42,500 Canadians each year. While the number of Canadians diagnosed with diabetes is already high, it is estimated that an additional million people are estimated to have the disease but do not know it. Currently, one in four Canadians lives with undiagnosed diabetes, diabetes, or prediabetes; a number that could rise to one in three by 2020. Diabetes affects more than 375 million people worldwide, and, according to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), it is estimated that another 180 million people don’t even know they have the disease. On the second day of the workshop, Armand Cardinal, who is employed as a liaison worker with workshop sponsor, TransCanada Pipeline, introduced the first keynote speaker of the day, Dr. Jeff Winterstein. During his introduction he spoke about the importance of diabetes education and said he was very pleased to see that TransCanada Pipeline is one of the sponsors of this particular event, and to note that the company is also involved in similar initiatives with other Indigenous communities across the province. Speaking in both Cree and English, Cardinal said he’d “like to see all of you here today gather and collect meaningful
Dr. Jeff Winterstein
information about diabetes so that you can take the information back to your communities to help improve the livelihoods of those who are afflicted with this terrible disease.” Dr. Jeff Winterstein runs the clinic he started at Enoch Cree Nation one day each month; his patient list has grown from 8 to more than 135. Instrumental in what has been described as “the exceptional management of diabetes at Enoch,” Dr. Winterstein has also been successful in pioneering tele-health diabetes clinics with many First Nations communities in Northern Alberta, where he has also become involved in the management and treatment of the disease. He is well published and is a member of the Canadian Society of Internal Medicine, Canadian Diabetes Association, American Diabetes Association and the European Association Title Speaker for the Study of Diabetes. Winterstein, originally from Montreal, has been working with diabetes patients in the Edmonton area for several years; he works primarily with Indigenous peoples and communities. “It’s been a very rewarding experience,” he noted. “It’s something that has really been lacking in this community. The will to succeed and the enthusiasm I’ve been met with amongst the First Nation communities has really been awesome.” During his oration Winterstein spoke about diabetes in general with a focus on what is being done today when it comes to working with Indigenous people and communities. He spoke about such things as the pancreas, sugar intake, the different types of diabetes and the various medicines to combat the disease. He also provided information about new and better medications now available and about health coverage and what is being done to ensure that Indigenous communities and residents are informed, diagnosed and treated in a timely manner.. He delved into serious consequences that can be attributed to diabetes, consequences such as heart disease, strokes, foot disease and more. He noted that in Canada Indigenous women have a 90 percent chance and men a 70 percent chance of being afflicted by the disease during their lifetime. He also told the crowd that globally, 50 percent of Indigenous people either have or will become affected by diabetes. He said that diabetes can result because of genetics, inactivity, poor diet, obesity and other maladies, but also noted that it can occur because of “socio-economic marginalization, colonization, isolation,” all of which “are a barrier to care.” Winterstein pointed out that over the years there have been many studies conducted to determine the reasons why Indigenous people seem to be more prone to developing diabetes than other Canadians, noting that these studies often result in another research project, something he said prompted his group to take action now. The clinic has been working at Enoch since May 2014, Continued on page 6
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Victory for First Nations Rights Last month the Federal Court of Appeal ruled that construction of the Trans Mountain expansion project must be halted, requiring that government examine the impacts of increased tanker traffic on the marine life. The court also ruled that additional consultation was required with Indigenous groups along the proposed route. The fatal flaw, the court said, was that during the final phase of Indigenous consultation, the government's representatives limited their mandate to listening to and recording the concerns of the Indigenous applicants and then transmitting those concerns to the decision-makers. "There was no meaningful two-way dialogue," Justice Eleanor Dawson wrote on behalf of the panel. The ruling requires the energy board to conduct a new review including the impacts of tanker traffic and means the government will have to redo part of its consultation with Indigenous groups. The ruling was celebrated by several BC Indigenous groups and environmentalists and was seen as an important victory for First Nations, even though First Nations in Alberta and even some in BC support the project. The ruling was viewed as a crushing and costly defeat in Alberta and Ottawa. “Today’s federal court decision is another victory for First Nations,” stated Assembly of First Nations National Chief Perry Bellegarde. “It’s unfortunate that First Nations must litigate to protect our inherent rights, title and jurisdiction. In this case, the government did not even meet the duty to consult standard as articulated by the courts. On behalf of the AFN, I remind all governments that the Crown also must meet the minimum standards set out in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Our right to self-determination, inherent rights and title and Treaty rights have been affirmed as legal rights in Canada and internationally.” “The decision confirms yet again why we need to work together on a better approach that leads to better decisions and better outcomes – an approach that implements and enforces rights and title, including free, prior and informed consent as set out in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. This is how we avoid conflict and costly legal battles and advance reconciliation. This is how we can grow a stronger country for our children.” The decision from the Federal Court of Appeal came on the same day that Kinder Morgan Canada Ltd. shareholders voted 99 per cent in favour of selling the pipeline and expansion project to the Canadian government for $4.5 billion, not including construction costs that could be as high as $9.3 billion. According to news reports, Indigenous groups in Fort McMurray, say they still want to purchase an equity stake in the project and believe the ruling creates an opportunity for the federal government to get consultation right. Brad Callihoo, Chief Executive Officer of the Fort McMurray First Nation is quoted as saying, “There are no shortcuts when it comes to consultation. (The ruling) identifies an issue that needs to be addressed. The system is broken when it comes to consultation and we need to fix it.” First Nations aren’t always going to agree, said Callihoo, but all deserve meaningful consultation.
“Do I think there could be common ground for all the First Nations? Absolutely. But we have to be able to come to the table and meet the demands of the B.C. First Nations, just as (was done with) the Alberta First Nations.” The goal for Callihoo’s First Nation is to become a selfsufficient community that does not rely on government subsidies for the next seven generations, he said, and a stake in the pipeline project would go a long way to achieving that objective. It’s been reported that The McMurray Metis also want a stake in the Trans Mountain pipeline. CEO Bill Loutitt is quoted as saying that the federal government should pass legislation to urgently resume construction on the project in Alberta, while also fulfilling their obligations to consult and review tanker traffic impacts. It should consider including Alberta Indigenous groups in talks with B.C. First Nations, he added. “The one common thing that we’re concerned about is the environment,” he said. “But the way to take care of the environment is to be involved on the inside. That’s where you’re able to make the changes.” “I really see an opportunity for the coastal First Nations to be a big part in piloting these tankers and actually taking control of what’s going on in their backyard,” he said. University of British Columbia law professor Gordon Christie told media that the federal government will now have to consult with First Nations in a way that seriously considers their concerns and provides a response and even an accommodation in some cases. For example, the Coldwater Indian Band in south-central B.C. raised concerns about the pipeline route passing through an aquifer that is the sole supply of drinking water for its main reserve. The government may consider re-routing or providing a new drinking water source, said Christie. Rueben George, a representative of the Tsleil-Waututh Nation in North Vancouver, said he couldn’t imagine his community ever supporting the project or purchasing a stake. Further consultation will have to include serious examination of his community's 1,200-page environmental assessment and studies on spill potential and air quality. Meanwhile, Natural Resources Minister Amarjeet Sohi confirmed on September 14 that the federal government will announce, possibly as early as next week, its plan to restart the Trans Mountain pipeline. Officials with both the federal and Alberta governments have been reviewing the process laid out in the federal court rejection of the work permits for the project. “We will be announcing our path forward in a few days, in a short, expedited way of getting this project back on track,” Sohi said at an announcement for a Western Canada Growth Strategy in Edmonton. “We are not talking about months of wait - days or maybe a week or so… because we understand the importance of this project to Alberta’s economy but also to the Canadian economy.”
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Short film 'Holy Angels' will be screened at EIFF (ANNews) - Indigenous filmmaker Jay Cardinal Villeneuve will be in Edmonton on September 30, 2018 to attend the premiere of his acclaimed film “Holy Angels” at the Edmonton International Film Festival (EIFF). The short documentary (14 minutes) tells a powerful and personal story about Canada’s colonialist history through impressionistic images and the fragmented language of a child. It will be screened at the Edmonton Landmark 9 Cinemas (10200 102 Ave) on September 30 at 4 pm and October 2 at 1:30 pm. It will then be screened at the Vancouver International Film Festival on October 6 and 8. The filmmaker’s attendance at EIFF will be most meaningful for both the filmmaker and the Alberta audience in that his film takes place at an Indian Residential School in Northern Alberta and he is an Alberta Indigenous filmmaker. Villeneuve was born in Wabasca and grew up in Slave Lake, Alberta – a member of the Bigstone Cree Nation in Northern Alberta. From March 2011 to June 2015, he worked as a videographer, recording the private testimonials of residential school survivors for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which was organized in response to the abuses of Canada’s Indian residential school system. Documenting the horrific experiences of residential school survivors was difficult but important work for the young filmmaker. There he met Lena Wandering Spirit, one of the survivors he filmed for the TRC. Her story served as the impetus for his NFB-produced short film, “Holy Angels.” In 1963, Wandering Spirit became one of the more than 150,000 Indigenous children who were removed from their families and sent to residential school. She spent six years at the Holy Angels Residential School in Fort Chipewyan, Alberta. Against a backdrop of now-empty hallways and classrooms, fragments of memory return - the shadowy figures of nuns, bits of remembered catechism, and the nightmare sounds of the basement boiler. “They call us by number,” she remembers. Wandering Spirit’s experience, like that of many other adult survivors, remains jagged and bright with pain and fear. But other, deeper memories also endured - of running barefoot in summer and picking berries, of stories shared, and of the warmth and love of family. Five-year-old performer Phoenix Sawan brings Wandering Spirit’s recollections to vivid life, dancing through an abandoned building in easy defiance of the
bleak history of the with place. Filmed elegance, precision, and fierce determination to not only uncover history but move past it, “Holy Angels” speaks of the resilience of a people who have found ways of healing - and of coming home again. “Holy Angels” is a Filmmaker Jay Cardinal Villeneuve will be at EIFF on September 30 for the powerful film that has screening of his award winning short film 'Holy Angels.' already been warmly received as genuinely moving. Patrick Mullen in Point of View magazine writes, cried every single day I worked with residential school “The images of the residential school are haunting, but survivors. I hold a lot of anger in my heart towards the there’s a strong sense of catharsis, of healing, as church, organized religion, and the Canadian government Wandering Spirit puts on record a story once lost. Her because of this. On the one hand, I wish I had never heard story is one of many compelling tales worth giving pause these stories, but on the other I’m glad that I did, because I know the truth." to in the ongoing efforts for reconciliation.” Film, he says, “is another way of revealing the truth. It’s The film has garnered three awards to date, including the prestigious Founder’s Award and Indigenous Award at imperative that we tell our own stories, otherwise we’re the Yorkton Film Festival and it was selected for opening enabling colonization in the sense of non-Native people night at the ImagineNATIVE Film and Media Arts portraying First Nations’ history, culture and tradition. Unfortunately, “Hollywood Indianisms” still exist, and Festival 2017. “Holy Angels” is produced by Selwyn Jacob, with this romanticized mentality promotes ignorance and Shirley Vercruysse as executive producer for the NFB’s racism towards Indigenous people. For me, making films is my own form of activism. It’s how I can represent and B.C. and Yukon Studio in Vancouver. Jay Cardinal Villeneuve graduated from the Indigenous showcase what I feel is important right now. “Film is a very powerful weapon. As it’s a relatively Independent Digital Filmmaking Diploma Program at Capilano University and was selected to take part in the new means of storytelling for First Nations people, we can inaugural Whistler Film Festival Aboriginal Filmmaker utilize it for healing, decolonizing and teaching. But it’s Fellowship. Over the last decade, he has independently also about entertainment. There are so many variables produced his own films and had acting roles in The through which filmmaking can contribute to restoring the Revenant (2015) and the APTN series Coyote Science. Jay story of the attempted eradication of our people, so I’m currently lives in Vancouver, BC, Coast Salish territories. going to try and trailblaze a warpath with my films and Villeneuve describes the impetus for the film. In an NFB hope to inspire along the way!” See “Holy Angels” at the Cinema Landmark 9 Theatre interview he says, “One of the things that stuck with me while listening to residential school survivors was the out- in Edmonton on September 30 and October 2 as part of of-body experiences they had while being horrifically EIFF. abused, when they were children. I struggled with hearing these stories. It is one thing to hear secondhand about abuse, but it’s very different when a survivor tells you their story right to your face. I
Indigenous Children Matter
Earlier this month the first Indigenous Child Welfare Conference was held in Edmonton aimed at deconstructing systemic barriers to providing the best practices for Indigenous children’s health, education and welfare.
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New building slated for Ben Calf Robe School (Edmonton) – The provincial government has committed to building a new Edmonton Catholic school that is focused on Indigenous culture and language. Ben Calf Robe School, a Catholic school for Indigenous students in northeast Edmonton, will get a new building, the Alberta government announced on September 10. Originally built in 1950, the school was approved in 2017 as a modernization project. After continued consultation with Edmonton Catholic Schools, students, families, and community leaders, government agreed to provide additional funds to make sure the entire facility is replaced and serves the needs of the community. “Edmonton Catholic Schools have done an excellent job creating a positive, culturally supportive learning environment at Ben Calf Robe School,” stated Alberta Minister of Education David Eggen. “Providing a brand new facility for the school will make sure the physical environment enhances that supportive structure provided by school staff and leadership.” Replacement school facilities incorporate advanced systems and features such as large windows that provide natural lighting and ventilation systems that improve air quality and circulation, creating a healthy learning and
Diabetes
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an initiative that Winterstein said “has blossomed and allowed us to expand into other communities - and expand quite successfully.” He said that on the first day the clinic opened at Enoch four people showed up. At that time, noted Winterstein, there were no resources and no way to order lab tests. “In time, word spread, and we had some excellent people working with us. Today when you come to the clinic you get your full vitals taken, you have access to a pharmacist and a nutritionist. We look at your blood pressure, kidneys, cholesterol, heart and we make sure everything is working okay. Onsite we also have a
working environment for students, teachers and others who use the schools. “We are extremely that the pleased Government of Alberta heard the voices of the community and made this decision with the best Ben Calf Robe students celebrate the announcement that their aging facility is interests of students in going to be replaced with a state-of-the-art school that includes a cultural gathering mind,” remarked Laura Over 90% of the students identify as Indigenous. place. Thibert, Board Chair of Catholic Edmonton Schools. “The district will work closely with the Council stated community Elder Betty Letendre. “In the future, we will have a school that brings high of Elders and the school community as the project moves academics along with the highest of culture and language, forward.” not only to our children but to all those who come to work The project will also include an additional funding be a part of our school community.” and contribution from Edmonton Catholic School District to Ben Calf Robe will also be eligible for solar panel build a dedicated cultural space in the school. This will funding, which will reduce the school’s energy costs and serve not just students and staff, but families in the school to Alberta’s commitment to help the contribute community. environment. The new school is expected to increase the “I’m very grateful that our Indigenous people in capacity of the school to serve 700 students. The current Edmonton will be honoured with a state-of the-art school,” school has capacity for 478 students. podiatrist that comes in, we have family doctors and we’re actively working to get a cardiologist.” From meager beginnings the clinic now sees in excess of 135 patients each month. In fact, the program has been so successful that it is now being delivered in other communities. A clinic set up in High Level didn’t make it, primarily because the community didn’t have a vested individual who could get out and bring the people in to the clinic. Today other clinics are operating in Frog Lake, Cold Lake and Saddle Lake with tele-health clinics available in almost every community. “The data that we are collecting from (the latter two) sites is very similar to those collected here at Enoch and at Frog Lake and there has been tremendous improvement in all locations,” assured Winterstein. “Could this work in your community?” he asked, gl%ancing around the room. “Reach out to someone in Enoch or Frog Lake or Saddle Lake; talk to a staff member, talk to a patient and ask them about their experiences. If your community has the infrastructure, the want and the desire to start something like this, then it is very easy - at least from my perspective. “We have since started two new clinics, one in Peerless Lake and one on the Paul Band - both very
enthusiastic and working very well. In two weeks, we will also be opening a clinic at Driftpile (First Nation) and we expect to see similar results take place there.” Diabetes is an incurable illness that has reached almost epidemic stages in Canada's Aboriginal communities, where it is estimated that more than 47 percent of adults over the age of 45 years are stricken with the disease, and where children as young as five years old are being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Canada provides the following key messages about diabetes for Indigenous Peoples and their communities: Many Indigenous communities have families with high rates and high risk of type 2 diabetes. If you are in a community with high rates of diabetes, see a health-care provider to learn about ways to be tested for and prevent diabetes. The causes of diabetes are complex. Learning about the medical, social and cultural contributions to diabetes is key to diabetes prevention. In particular, seek to understand the relationships between the history of colonization and the current high rates of diabetes in Indigenous peoples. Ask about community initiatives that promote healthy behaviours, such as diabetes walks, weight-loss groups, fitness classes, community kitchens and gardens, and school-based activities for children and teenagers. If you are planning a pregnancy or may get pregnant, get screened for diabetes. If you are pregnant and have diabetes or have been diagnosed with gestational diabetes, visit your health-care providers more often, and find out about exercise, breastfeeding and other support groups for pregnant women and new mothers.
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Thelma Chalifoux Hall residence opens at U of A By Scott Lingley, University of Alberta (Folio.ca) - Three generations of the late Métis activist and former Canadian senator Thelma Chalifoux’s family were on hand August 30, to celebrate the opening of the University of Alberta’s newest residence which was named in her honour. Daughters Debbie Coulter and Sharon Morin, as well as granddaughter Ava Coulter and great-granddaughter Chyana Deschamps, all spoke at the grand opening of the new 461-space Thelma Chalifoux Hall, but it was a granddaughter who couldn’t attend the ceremony who explained what the naming would have meant to Chalifoux. “When I heard students chose my grandma as the namesake of a hall for first-year students, I thought how appropriate and beautiful that was,” said Debbie Coulter, who read aloud a letter her daughter Rheanna Sand wrote. “I hope that Thelma Chalifoux Hall is a place where new students can feel at home, find friendship and a quiet place to reflect and dream of what’s possible. She would want all new students to remember their roots but to move forward and rise to the challenge that first year. After that, the future awaits.” Sand, who completed her PhD at the U of A in 2012 and is now a neuroscience research fellow at Harvard University, recalled how crucial her grandmother’s support had been during her early days at the U of A. Chalifoux’s daughter Sharon Morin presented student
representatives with a Métis flag, Métis sash and portrait of Chalifoux that will adorn the common area on the main floor, Thelma Chalifoux's daughters Debbie Coulter, Sharon Morin and Julie Handrahan along with a plaque (centre) cut the ribbon to officially open the new U of A residence named in detailing Chalifoux’s life Chalifoux's honour, with help from senior residence assistant Laura Dow (left) and accomplishments. and Joaquin Calderon, VP for Thelma Chalifoux Hall for the Lister Hall Students' “We have a big family Association. (Photo: Eric Athanas) and we could probably fill two of the floors here with everybody,” Morin said. “But work of reconciliation, has a connection to the university my mum also had lots of ‘might as well be’ kids. There and demonstrates diversity,” said Andrew Sharman, vicewere lots of kids who called her grandma or auntie or president of facilities and operations. “Everyone agreed kookum. And these [students] will also be her ‘might as that Thelma Chalifoux embodies these values.” Chalifoux’s great-granddaughter Chyana Deschamps, well be’ kids, so we’ll embrace them and welcome them currently pursuing her bachelor of arts degree at the U of the way mum did.” Granddaughter Ava Coulter enumerated Calgary-born A, also spoke at the opening. Thelma Chalifoux Hall, part of the Lister residence Chalifoux’s many contributions to the well-being of Métis and First Nations peoples, and all Canadians, including her complex, opened to student residents earlier this week time serving in the U of A senate in the 1970s, and her along with Nîpîsy House, a new residence in East Campus service as a Canadian senator from 1997 to 2004. After she Village that will create a further 300 student spaces. The retired from the Canadian Senate, she founded St. Albert’s new residences have helped the U of A meet its Michif Cultural Connections, an organization dedicated to commitment to providing on-campus accommodations for all first-year undergraduate students who apply. More Métis culture. She passed away in September 2017. “In searching for a name for the newest residence, it was than 5,000 students moved into campus residences on important to choose one that would inspire students to do Aug. 27. This article was originally published at folio.ca. great things, that recognizes the U of A’s support for the
Major gift announced for Métis students at Concordia University Edmonton, AB — On September 14, the Rupertsland of Institute and the Métis Education Foundation announced a significant gift to support Métis student success at Concordia University Edmonton. “I am happy to announce and celebrate yet another milestone,” said President of the Métis Nation of Alberta, Audrey Poitras. “The Métis Nation of Alberta and its affiliates, in partnership with Concordia University of Edmonton, have reached an agreement to create a $500,000 endowment in perpetuity. As part of this agreement, the Métis Nation of Alberta will invest $250,000 and Concordia University of
Edmonton will provide an in-kind contribution totaling $250,000 over the next 10 years. “In making this announcement, I am aware that this contribution on behalf of future generations of Métis citizens could not be possible without the relationships and partnerships that we have created with the Métis community and stakeholders across the province.” President Tim Loreman is enthusiastic about today’s announcement. “Concordia University of Edmonton is proud to be partnering with the MNA in the area of awards and financial support for Metis students, as well as in other areas that benefit all students at our university,” he remarked. “We look forward to a long and productive relationship with MNA, forged in the spirit of reconciliation, that has
L-R: Lorne Gladue, Audrey Poitras, Bev Nu, Dr. Barbara van Ingen, Danielle Powder and Lisa Savill.
the potential to generate deeper understandings between and within our communities.”
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NorQuest celebrates success by John Copley On Friday, September 7, NorQuest College hosted a Stakeholder Barbecue on the campus’ Parking Lot E on 108 Street and 102 Avenue in downtown Edmonton. The two-hour event, which took place on the last pleasant day before the snow and rain began to fall, was held to celebrate and share the success stories of the popular college and to acknowledge those whose contributions have made it all possible. NorQuest President and CEO Jody Abbott took to the podium and before introducing Elder Delores Cardinal to offer a traditional blessing, acknowledged that the college, which is located on Treaty 6 Territory, remains “dedicated to ensuring that the spirit of Treaty 6 is honoured and respected.” The parking lot, converted to an outdoor patio setting for the occasion, quickly filled with participants and special guests that included Alberta Indigenous Relations Minister and MLA for Edmonton-Rutherford, Richard Feehan, Alberta Minister of Education and MLA for EdmontonCalder, David Eggen, Randy Boissonnault, MP for Edmonton Centre, David Shepherd, MLA for Edmonton Centre, Rod Loyola, MLA for Edmonton Ellerslie, Edmonton (Ward 6) City Councillor Scott McKeen, and Alberta’s Deputy Minister of Education, Curtis Clarke. Minister Feehan created some laughter during his opening comments when he noted: “I can tell by the many politicians here today, that this is a very important event.” He went on to say, “This college is a place for real transformation and I am very impressed when I speak with students and see what they’ve done to enhance their futures. A big thanks to those students, who upon graduation, help us to create a very strong and stable workforce in this province. You are what we are here to celebrate.” He went on the praise the work being done by the Alberta Indigenous Construction Career Centres (AICCC), its manager, Ruby Littlechild and the rest of the staff who “have created a welcoming, safe and holistic space for students to grow, to celebrate and to add enrichment to Alberta’s economy. Thank you all for sharing your cultural wisdom, your Indigenous ways of teaching and for creating a safe place in which to get the work done.” Abbott thanked Feehan and the Alberta government for “your insight, your support and your courage in terms of funding this important (Indigenous Construction Career) Centre. We have many positive stories to share and this would not have been possible without your support.” MP Randy Boissonnault greeted the crowd saying, “First I just want to state that there is no relationship more important to this government than that with its First People - First Nations, Métis and Inuit. We are on a pathway of reconciliation and the Centre that we are celebrating today is an important step in that reconciliation. It has taken us many generations to get to the place we are in now and it will take many more generations to get to a path where we can all say that we are happy with our nation-to-nation relationship. I am thrilled that today we can talk about success. I worked with NorQuest in celebrating the first time you held a construction program here and you said: ‘It’ll be successful if we have 350 grads.’ Well, at 1,300 I think it’s been a roaring success.” Scott McKeen told the gathering it was an honour to be participating on behalf of Mayor Iveson and city council, noting that “it is a bit of a thrill in that today I don’t have to follow Randy and MLA David Shepherd who are both great speakers and outstanding advocates for their ridings. We take so much pride here in Edmonton about the work that NorQuest does in uplifting the lives of so many students each year. The Indigenous people of Edmonton possess rich and distinct identities and they have significantly shaped our past and generously shared their knowledge and wisdom and have helped their city to become a thriving urban centre. We recently had a
NorQuest CEO Jody Abbott representative D'Arcy Newberry.
and
Chandos
presentation before Council about how Edmonton is dealing with the influx of Syrian refugees and it was so thrilling to hear that Bent Arrow Healing Society greets refugees at the airport when they arrive. This is historically apt because Indigenous people welcomed the Special guests included Indigenous Relations Minister Richard Feehan, MP earliest European settlers to this Boissonnault, Councilor Scott McKeen and MLA David Shepherd. Randy area and frankly helped to keep them alive. Indigenous people have a strong, strong voice in our city’s future. We have involvement in our city’s economic development is the second largest urban Indigenous population in Canada essential to its health and prosperity; they bring skills and and Edmonton’s fast-growing Indigenous community perspective, and this makes them a highly valuable part of Continued on page 13 represents vitality, strength and opportunity. Their
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National Indigenous Cultural Expo is coming to Edmonton: Sept. 28-30 (ANNews) - Join thousands of Indigenous people from across Turtle Island for the first ever National Indigenous Cultural Expo (NICE), featuring Canada’s largest Pow Wow, Metis Festival, and Inuit Showcase, all in one venue – the Edmonton Expo Centre, located at 7515 118 Ave. The expo will be held September 28-30 and it will be a vibrant display of storytelling, dance, sports and culture that you absolutely do not want to miss. Indigenous people from across North America and beyond are coming together to share their cultures and showcase to the world the diverse and richness of Indigenous cultures. NICE will include not only a traditional and competition Powwow but Metis and Inuit Sport and Cultural showcases and competitions, a national Indigenous fashion show and gala, a huge trade show, and more! An inaugural Indigenous Child and Family Services Summit will also be taking place and special events are planned in honour of Orange Shirt Day.
If you are a dancer, NICE organizers highly recommend that you pre-register at cttabulating.formstac/; pay your admission by downloading the NGE app on your smartphone via Apple or google play store. Admission for NICE is adults $20 daily, children (age 717) $10 daily and kids 6 and under are free. People can pay the admission at the door as they enter the event but they can also pickup or pay for their admission early and beat the lines by coming to the Concierge desk by the Alberta Ballroom in the Edmonton EXPO Centre from 12pm-8pm on Sept 26 and 27. The Powwow will be held in Hall D of the Expo Centre. MCs are Ruben Littlehead and Hal Eagletail and the Arena Directors are George Desjarlais, Vincent Rain and Stan Isador. It will feature an amazing display and competition of drumming and dancing with cash prizes in each category. The tabulators for the event will be C& T Tabulating.
September, 2018
Grand Entries will be held Friday at 1 pm and on Saturday and Sunday at noon. The Drum contest will yield cash prizes to the top ten drum groups with a total payout of $121,000. The Dance contest will provide generous cash prizes to the top ten competitors in each age category for male dancers that include Junior Men (age 18-35), Senior Men (36-49), Golden Age (50+), Teen Boys (13-17) and Junior Boys (7-12) in four dance genres: traditional, chicken, grass and fancy dance. Comparable prizes will be provided for females in the same age categories in 3 dance genres: traditional, jingle and fancy dance. Special competitions will also be featured; a women’s fancy contest and a men’s fancy contest are Orange Shirt Specials in observance of Residential School Survivors Awareness. A special men’s/boy’s traditional is a Frank Fox Morin and Baby Geo Memorial and a special women’s/girl’s traditional dance contest is to honour Mothers and Grandmothers. Specials will also be held for Junior Boy’s chicken dance and Junior Girl’s oldstyle jingle. The Metis Festival in Hall C will feature Jigging and Fiddling contests with cash prizes for the top 5 competitors in each age and gender category including: Adult Male and Female (19+), Youth Male and Female (13-18), Junior Male and Female (7-12), Senior Male and Female (50+), Golden Age Male and Female combined (75+), Performers: Male and Female Combined, Tiny Tots (<4). The event will also feature special perform-ances of the duck dance and the red river jig, as well as a special presentation of “Metis Settlements History of Alberta.” Cultural workshops will be held on jigging, beading, capote making, moccasin making, storytelling, finger weaving, fiddle lessons and square dancing. The Inuit Traditional Showcase in Hall E will feature Arctic Sports Displays, a drum and dance competition, a performance of throat singers and traditional singers as well as Elder storytelling sessions focusing on “Where we have come and where we are going.” It will also include circumpolar jam sessions and universal jam sessions. The festival will also feature a three-day conference on the theme of “Honouring our Indigenous Families and Children.” Tickets are available on EventBrite and are required to participate in this event. The inaugural NICE Indigenous Fashion Show and Gala will be presented on Saturday September 29 and will bring together some of Turtle Islands best Indigenous fashion designers and models. Tickets are $150 per person or $1500 for a table of ten. For information contact vragoreception@ gmail.com. U of A Rehab Medicine is partnering with NICE and will provide a variety of workshops. The countdown is on – the National Indigenous Cultural Expo is just around the corner. For registration information and discounts on travel and accommoda-tion visit ngekanata.com, facebook @ NICEFNMI or registration@ngekanata.com.
September, 2018
Alberta Native News
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Global News Anchor Daintre Christensen is an inspiration by John Copley If you haven’t heard of Daintre Christensen, then you’ve either just arrived from out-of-province or you’re off to work before the morning news is broadcast on Global TV. That’s where Daintre works as Traffic Anchor and CoHost of Edmonton’s #1 Morning News program. A First Nation woman, Daintre is a member of Ontario’s Nipissing First Nation, an Ojibwe and Algonquin community whose ancestors have lived on and around Lake Nipissing for more than 9,000 years. Raised at an early age in her home community, Daintre moved west with her mom and sister when she was ten years old. Without family or Indigenous connections in Alberta, she didn’t have the opportunity to grow up in a traditional way, but that didn’t stop her from succeeding. “I’ve always had goals and aspirations but mostly I just wanted to be successful,” she said in an interview. “I’ve always liked knowing what’s going on in the world and why, so I think that interest was what really sparked my journey into broadcasting, though originally I was looking at a career in print media.” Another contributing factor to Daintre’s career choice came as a result of advice she got from her dad. “My father was the one who convinced me to apply for a job at a local station while I was attending college,” she explained. “I might not have had the courage to apply if he hadn’t encouraged me to pursue it. My father is a huge influence in my life and has always supported my choices.” Once she knew what it was she wanted to do, Daintre went to college and applied for education funding, which would come from the Nipissing First Nation’s education portfolio. “I went before Council and told them I wanted to pursue an education that would allow me to achieve my goals, both in the broadcast industry and as a person,” she said. She was approved for the funding, completed her education and has since continued to move ahead via hard work, foresight and determination. She began her career behind the microphone at CISN Country 103.9 FM Radio and did Corus traffic reports live from the Global 1 helicopter beginning in 2006. Daintre’s television broadcast career began in 2008, where she filed traffic reports for the Morning News, the Early News and various Corus radio stations. On September 8, Daintre celebrated her 10th anniversary as Global TV Edmonton’s Traffic Anchor and Co-Host. “I have a great job, and I work for a positive and supporting employer. I really love my job because of the people I work with every day and because of the relationships I’ve formed with them; these relationships make the job especially enjoyable.” Working at Global TV has also allowed Daintre the opportunity to have a voice, a platform to help bring positive change to Indigenous peoples and communities. She does this primarily through social media and through volunteerism. This includes her participation as a panelist at the 2018 Women’s Symposium (Strengthening Indigenous Women’s Voices) and as emcee for the 2018 In Her Shoes Gala, a fundraising initiative held in June in support of Edmonton’s WIN House, a vital, non-profit organization that provides a safe place for women and children fleeing domestic violence and abuse. “I was invited to emcee the In Her Shoes Gala by Mrs. North America Globe Classic, Lisa Ground. I think that it is really important that we show women that they have a voice in our community and that we need to stand up and
stand together for people who are experiencing domestic violence. They need to know that they are not alone and that they can speak up and that they will be supported when they do so.” In 2017 Daintre also had the opportunity to speak at the Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women (IAAW) alongside her aunt, former Chief of Nipissing First Nation, Margaret Penasse Mayer, IAAW Founder Muriel Stanley Venne and Loon River First Nation Chief Bernadette Sharp, during an Indigenous Women in Leadership Workshop at Amiskwaciy Academy. Daintre also speaks to students of all ages at the local schools and especially enjoys reading stories to the younger children. “It’s a wonderful thing to do and I really look forward to those moments,” she smiled. “I say, hey kids, I’m here to read a story to you and to talk to you a bit about who I am and what I do. I like to inspire them just as I was inspired by Rick Hansen when he came to Edmonton and I met him during a school field trip to the Alberta Legislature. It was such a big deal! If we can be good role models for our younger generations, we will build an even stronger future.” Daintre is always interested in opportunities to speak with school children in their classrooms or auditoriums and welcomes requests to do so. “I am definitely interested in these types of outings,” she said. “If I’m invited I will find a way to participate.” Christensen was honoured to be invited by conference coordinator Georgette Look with BUKSA Associates to participate in the February 2018 Women’s Symposium and pleased to see that the full house comprised a good balance of both Indigenous and non-Indigenous spectators and participants. “Participation is important no matter what culture you represent,” she emphasized. “Domestic violence doesn’t affect just one community, it affects every community. Participation is vital; we are all part of a general community and we need to understand that despite any differences we have, we are all part of one bigger family.” As a panelist she spoke to the audience about leadership, her own career, and those who inspired her to achieve her goals - strong women who made a positive difference in her life. “I also spoke about how valuable it is for young girls to
Daintre Christensen
have female role models to tell them that they can achieve their goals if they work hard and even though it takes some time, it’s really worth it in the end.” A role model, mentor and advocate for women, children and animal rescue groups, Daintre is a strong believer in education and promotes it at every opportunity. “I want to encourage every person to pursue their education,” she said. “It’s a huge thing for our community to get that post-secondary education and pursue a career of choice. Not only will you have a better life, but more Continued on page 13
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Alberta Native News
September, 2018
Why the whiskey-jack does not go south for the winter is provided by the Lac La Ronge Band, Curriculum Resource Unit who are dedicated to providing quality educational resources to all the people of the First Nations.
Why the whiskey jack does not go south for the winter Collected and illustrated by: James Ratt Told by Ida Ratt It is told that “Weskuchanis” the whiskey jack was a very ordinary bird who had a short tail, short wings and a rather large head. There was nothing very beautiful about him and this caused great concern to Weskuchanis. Often the plain old whiskey jack was the subject of scorn and laughter by the other birds of the forest.
So, one day the bird asked his older brother, Wesuhkechahk, what he should do in order to look more distinguished when he met with other birds of the woods. “Wesuhkechahk, can you help me? I want to look very important and handsome.”
Wesuhkechahk thought this over for awhile and then spoke to the bird, “ Go and borrow some feathers from the other birds and put them on your coat. They will make you very handsome.” So Weskuchanis flew off and considered the suggestion made by his older brother. Now in the month when the leaves are turning red and gold, the birds hold great powwows before they go south for the winter. Soon it would be time for such a powwow and the whiskey jack was determined to attend with a new set of feathers. So he went around to all the birds in the forest and begged for a feather or two here and there. With the new feathers, Weskuchanis made a fine long tail and strong wide wings for himself. Now the whiskey jack was one fine
looking bird! The time came about for the great powwow, so Weskuchanis flew off in the direction of the great meeting.
But flying along he found that he could not control his wings and tail properly. Suddenly he would turn and almost fall to the ground. He couldn’t fly level very well either. When he flapped his wings he soared and then swooped downward. The whiskey jack arrived at the powwow by sailing out of the sky and crashing into the ground. The other birds laughed and laughed. Niskuh, the Canada goose, teased him, “My, how graceful you are, Weskuchanis.” The whiskey jack was very sad and embarrassed. He flew off into the forest as the birds kept taunting and teasing him. There he tried pulling out the feathers he had borrowed but they stuck fast to his body. It was obvious that the poor whiskey jack would never fly well again so he decided to stay in the forest by himself.
To this day, Weskuchanis is very clumsy in the air and does not associate with other birds. He prefers to spend his time close to the camps of people. This is also the reason why the whiskey jack does not fly south for the winter.
September, 2018
NorQuest
Alberta Native News cont. from p 9
Edmonton’s cultural and economic landscape. Programs like AICCC are so important and NorQuest is providing a solid platform which is helping a young and strong Indigenous population to pursue their passion.” Chandos spokesperson, D’Arcy Newberry spoke about the important role that the Aboriginal Construction Career Centre brings to industry. He spoke about Chandos’ employees participating in Aboriginal Awareness initiatives and learning new skills as well as insight into Indigenous customs, beliefs and lifestyle. He thanked AICCC Program Manager Ruby Littlechild for enlightening and working with Chandos and for helping enable the company to gain a better insight when it comes to working with and speaking to Indigenous employees and clients throughout the province. He noted that “you can see the success of the initiative” on the work sites and in the office and as a “team player company we like to invest in people and projects and give them an opportunity to learn new skills and discover hidden talents that perhaps they never knew they had.” Abbott addressed the gathering and spoke about how difficult it is for Albertans who “want to contribute to their community but feel they’ve been left behind because of the differences in cultural ideals and understanding.” She told the gathering that “great steps are being made at NorQuest to help ease the sense of separation and inequalities, which has never been more important than in this time of reconciliation. NorQuest College is committed to the implementation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call for Action and we will continue to strive to create clarity for Alberta’s Indigenous people. We understand the important elements they bring to Alberta’s identity and economy.
“We will continue to challenge the status quo and enable unique and innovative creativity by empowering the uncapped Indigenous labour market. Did you know that between March 2015 and today, the AICCC has assisted approximately 3,300 clients; we have placed many of these individuals directly into meaningful and in-demand jobs. 7,700 safety and training certificates have been achieved, meeting the Alberta needs for labour. We are very proud of these numbers and we will do more.” Ruby Littlechild, in an interview following the event, said that “AICCC is transforming people and changing lives. We are very proud of our responsibility to help our clients transition to the urban city and to believe in themselves as they work to support their families. We work hard every day to empower our clients so that they can obtain employment and contribute to Alberta’s economy. We do this via job skills and training and by breaking down the barriers by providing Indigenous Awareness training for our clients to be able to succeed in the mainstream workplace.” As of August 22, 2018, AICCC has succeeded in helping to put 65 percent of its intakes into meaningful jobs. “Under the new Government of Alberta, Ministry of Labour Grant Agreement which ends March 31, 2019,” she explained, “we are expected to see 1400 clients in the overall grant agreement. To date we are currently pleased to report that so far client intakes already number 1672; 72 percent have been placed into jobs. This means that we are currently ten months ahead of schedule.” The AICCC is a successful Community Economic Development model based on a strong sense of rural and
Jim Pattison Broadcast Group Scholarship deadline: October 5 The Jim Pattison Broadcast Group has announced its 2018 Prairie Equity Scholarship competition; aimed at Broadcast students in the Prairie Provinces who are part of underrepresented groups. The Equity Scholarship was instituted in 2009 to address the shortage of broadcasters from four groups; Aboriginal Peoples, Persons with Disabilities, Members of Visible Minorities, and Women. The Jim Pattison Broadcast Group believes that by supporting the career development of these groups, the industry will access an untapped pool of potentially talented employees, encourage diverse viewpoints and backgrounds, enhance
Christensen
cont. from p 11
importantly, you will inspire others to do the same.” Christensen said that Global TV "has always supported me, my Indigenous ancestry and anything I’ve done to support my Indigenous heritage, culture and community." It continues to give her the profile she needs to to spread the word about “the positive things going on throughout the province’s” Indigenous community. “It is very important that we are able to highlight the positive things that are happening; for example, we recently had the Alberta Indigenous Games here and we can all see how that has grown. Instead of hosting the event every two years, it’s been back-to-back this year and last. That’s got a lot to do with the interest and the admissions they’ve had for the games; it’s a good story that is getting better every year. This is just one of many success stories taking place in our Indigenous communities and we need to share them with everyone.” Daintre is an avid supporter of animal rights groups and in fact is foster-mother to three African elephants, an undertaking she became involved in after watching a documentary about the plight of the vanishing African elephant, hunted by poachers for their ivory tusks. Locally, she donates her time helping to promote animal rescue
relationships with local communities, and broaden the advertiser and audience base. This year, two $2,000.00 awards will be made to residents of Alberta, Saskatchewan or Manitoba who, in 2018, are attending or planning to attend a recognized Broadcast Program at a post-secondary institution in one of those provinces. Applicants can access a scholarship information and application package at the websites of the Prairie stations of the Jim Pattison Broadcast Group, or through the Broadcast Programs at Prairie post-secondary institutions. Deadline for applications is October 5th, 2018 - with the award to be announced in November. groups. In fact, she and her husband adopted their dog, Virgil, about five years ago, after he’d been found abandoned at a southern Alberta dump. “Most animal rights groups don’t get funding, and that includes the Edmonton Humane Society,” she explained, “but they are all working tirelessly to help these animals and to cover the costs of veterinarians, food, shelter and other necessities. I emcee events and fundraisers to help ensure that these costs can be met and that we can help as many animals as possible. “I utilize social media to talk about the plight of the elephant, but there’s a wide range of animals that are undergoing similar treatment at the hands of humans. It’s difficult to read about all the bad things that are happening when it comes to species such as sharks, rhinos, endangered orangutans and others. These are difficult issues to read about and understand but if we don’t step up, speak out and actively try to do something - if we don’t support these animal rescue groups and veterinarians who travel around the world to try and help these different species - eventually they won’t be here anymore.” Daintre wasn’t directly affected by the Indian Residential Schools that once dominated the Canadian landscape, but she knows about the issues, the stories, the
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urban community collaborations. “We have the Alberta Government (policy makers), NorQuest College, Training Centres (educators) and Industry (employers) all contributing and working in partnership and responding to Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s calls to action,” added Littlechild, who noted that “our clients include general labourers, scaffolders, welders, pipe fitters, steamfitters, carpenters, concrete finishers, plumbers, insulators, Heavy Machinery Operators, mechanics, electricians, ironworkers, engineers and more. For more information about AICCC or to learn more about this unique opportunity to become involved in a construction related career, contact Ruby Littlechild at 780-644-5907 or ruby.littlechild@NorQuest.ca This year, the scholarship initiative is supported by the following stations of the Jim Pattison Broadcast Group: 101.5 KOOL FM, Calgary, Wild 95.3 FM, Calgary, Big West Country 92.9 FM, Drayton Valley, 102.3 NOW! radio, Edmonton, Up! 99.3 FM, Edmonton, Big Country 93.1 FM, Grande Prairie, Q99 FM, Grande Prairie, Country 95.5 FM, Lethbridge, B-93.3 FM, Lethbridge, 102.3 FM CJNS FM, Meadow Lake, CHAT 94.5 FM, Medicine Hat, CHAT Television, Medicine Hat, MY96 FM, Medicine Hat, Q98 FM, North Battleford, Saskatchewan Country CJNB, North Battleford, 93.3 The Rock FM, North Battleford, XFM, Prince Albert, Saskatchewan Country CKBI, Prince Albert, Power 99 FM, Prince Albert, BIG 105.5 FM, Red Deer, 106.7 The Drive FM, Red Deer, B94 FM, Rocky Mountain House, QX 104, Winnipeg and 94-3 The Drive, Winnipeg.
suffering and the difficult time that many Indigenous people have when it comes to healing from past injustices against them. “Healing from such tragedy cannot be an easy thing, but I believe it is important to tell your story, to meet and work with others who share your pain and to come to terms with the past in a way that best works for you. Sharing these types of stories is not easy and in fact is painful, but there are no easy solutions. I think that by sharing stories with others, survivors will be able to come to terms with the past, so they can experience a better life in the future. As a community, we need to listen, and we need to step up and support those who are trying to move on in life.” Outside of the Global Edmonton studios Daintre enjoys jogging with Virgil and target practicing at the indoor pistol range. She also enjoys traveling and has toured Germany by train, visited friends in England and visited her husband’s family in Denmark. “Copenhagen was my favourite place and we plan to go again,” she noted. “But I also like Quebec City; we went there last year, and it was beautiful. That’s another place I definitely want to go visit again.”
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Alberta Native News
September, 2018
Our cover artist: Leah Dorion The beautiful image on the cover of this month’s Alberta Native News is a detail from a painting entitled “Picking Saskatoons” by Leah Dorion, a brilliant artist from Saskatchewan. The painting is part of an exquisite exhibit that will be held at Art Gallery of St. Albert, in their temporary location (6D Perron Street) from October 4 to November 10, 2018. An opening reception will be held on October 6 from 2:30 to 5 pm. The exhibit is entitled “Dancing with the Earth” featuring paintings by Leah Dorion. Leah is an interdisciplinary Métis artist from Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. Her vibrant and symbolic paintings honour the spiritual strength of Indigenous women and the sacred feminine. In an artist’s statement, she describes the impetus for the exhibit. “Dancing the Earth celebrates the beauty of the earth and the Energy of life that abounds within this great circle of life,” notes Dorion. Symbol systems are predominant in Indigenous art and are a powerful and dynamic way to pass historical and spiritual knowledge forward through generations. Dorion applies them in her art to convey a variety of important cultural teachings. Incorporating a range of mediums such as beads, birch bark, river rock, and shells, Dorion shares her Métis heritage through joyful, tactile contemporary works. Rich celebratory narratives pay homage to her First Nations and Métis women ancestors, sharing stories through active, intriguing imagery. Leah is a skilled artist and storyteller; whether on the
"Picking Saskatoons" by Leah Dorion is on exhibit at Art Gallery of St. Albert (temporary location) from Oct. 4 to Nov. 10.
gallery wall or in the numerous books she has illustrated, her lively art creates a compelling visual dialogue and a potent spiritual expression. This exhibition will also feature Métis artifacts from the artist’s personal collection and the Collection of the Musée Héritage Museum. During the 2017-18 Gallery Barrier-free renovation, Art Gallery of St. Albert is located at their temporary location at 6D Perron Street until December 2018. Art Gallery of St. Albert features contemporary and community exhibitions, brought to life with public programs and events. Education programs offer visual arts
Loon River First Nation opens new truck stop Loon River First Nation has used an Alberta government grant to help construct a full-service truck stop, creating jobs and helping build the community’s economic future. “This business creates economic opportunities and jobs while providing essential services for the region, making life better for this community and future generations,” stated Richard Feehan, Minister of Indigenous Relations. “Through investments like these, we are helping Indigenous communities achieve their goal of economic self-sufficiency, which is an important part of reconciliation.” The facility includes an Esso-branded fuel station, convenience store and fast food kiosks, offering travelers and residents’ convenient access to gas, food and beverages.
“It’s so satisfying to know that an entire community is benefiting from this truck stop, which will also serve an entire region while providing valuable work experience,” added Danielle Larivee, Lesser Slave Lake MLA. “By working together today, we’re building a better tomorrow.” The project has created 29 new permanent, full-time jobs and supported training and skill development within the Nation. It will also increase economic opportunities for the community and the region through ongoing sales revenue and by attracting other businesses to the area. “Loon River First Nation continues to move towards and through the challenges to encourage economic growth,” stated Loon River First Nation Chief Bernadette Sharpe. “The Elders say ‘Piko ka akameetamuk.’ This means we
opportunities for thousands of children, youth and adults throughout the year. Art Gallery of St. Albert’s mandate is to provide enriching educational experiences that celebrate visual culture and artistic achievement through research, exhibition and interpretation. Exhibitions celebrate diversity, providing vision, inspiration and education for the community. Art Gallery of St. Albert and Musée Héritage Museum are managed by Arts and Heritage St. Albert, a non-profit, registered Canadian charitable organization. For information visit artgalleryofstalbert.ca must keep making the effort, work hard and not give up. We appreciate the partnerships and support of the Government of Alberta.” Grand Chief of Treaty 8 First Nations Arthur Noskey remarked, “The truck stop is part of a larger effort by Loon River First Nation to generate more of their own revenue. With these funds, the Nation is able make investments such as building new housing and upgrading roads without being dependent on other orders of government for assistance.” The $700,000 grant was provided through the Aboriginal Business Investment Fund, which provides funding to eligible Indigenous community-owned businesses and organizations to support economic development and improve social outcomes for Indigenous peoples in Alberta. Loon Lake is a First Nation located in northern Alberta,158 kms north of Slave Lake Alberta, in census division No. 17 and in the federal riding of Fort McMurray-Athabasca. Last month, Minister Feehan toured the new truck stop with members of the Loon River First Nation, Grand Chief of Treaty 8 Arthur Noskey and MLA Larivee.
September, 2018
Alberta Native News
15
Calling All Captains signs a new record deal by John Copley There’s been some exciting news coming out of the Equal Vision Records (EVR) studio in Albany, New York this month with the announcement that Canadian pop punk band, Calling All Captains, has been signed to the label. “It’s an exciting time for the band right now,” said vocalist and lead singer Luc Gauthier, who along with longtime friend Conner Dawkins (guitar) and fellow band members, Brad Bremner (guitar), Nick Malychuk (bass) and Tim Wilson (drums) recently wound up a Canadian Tour that saw them perform in more than a dozen cities. The tour, which began in Edmonton’s Starlite Room on July 20 and concluded with a gig at the Detour Music Hall in St. Catherines, Ontario on September 3, also included stops in Thunder Bay, Sudbury, Ottawa, Kingston, Barrie, Toronto and several other Canadian cities. The road trip and the recent signing with Equal Vision Records is a culmination of more than four years of tireless work from the group’s small basement studio in St. Albert, Alberta. Before producing its first record single with Equal Vision, Disconnected, the band had already released two online EPs, A Way With Words (2014) and Disconnect (2016) and had completed several self-funded tours. After a short break in 2017 the group came back more focused and determined than ever. “It can be quite the grind when you are out there doing it on your own,” admitted Gauthier, “but the hard work did pay off and we are looking forward to a bright future.” I was surprised to hear about the band’s recently released single because until last week I didn’t realize that lead singer, Luc Gauthier could sing. He works with Native Counselling Services of Alberta as the Administrative Assistant at Cunningham Place, a 28-bed supportive transitional housing facility for youth aged 1830 that provides accommodations for individuals of moderate to low-income. But I’ve only known Luc as a quiet-spoken young man who dances with Edmontonbased Métis Child and Family Jiggers as they strut their stuff across the province to share their Métis culture and heritage. “I will continue to dance with the group as I always have because I believe it is very important to promote Métis culture,” he stated. “Promoting and practicing with my Native heritage is important; it is pretty much a way-of-life for me. I’ve been dancing since I was nine years old and I realize that that opportunity has helped me with this new opportunity; without the experience I gained promoting my own culture I likely would not be as comfortable on stage as I am today.” Working with and teaching kids to dance and to enjoy
their proud Métis heritage has been something that Luc has tried to remain involved with and he doesn’t plan to stop. “I like to get kids up on the dance floor because it them gain helps confidence and it helps Calling All Captains: Nick Malychuk (Bass), Connor Dawkins (Guitar), Luc Gauthier them take special pride in (Vocals), Tim Wilson (Drums) and Brad Bremner (Guitar). who they are as Metis people. I think that it is friend Conner Dawkins. We met in Grade 10 and have important to know your culture and your heritage and been best friends ever since; he’s my rock and I don’t think equally important to pass on that knowledge to others. In I could manage it all without him.” the next little while some of the band members and I will In an interview with the Alternative Press, guitarist Brad be visiting schools to talk about our road to success and the Bremner said the group was “really stoked to be working fact that if you have a dream you can make it come true; with EVR. They’ve had some of our all-time favourite all you need is a little determination and the willingness to bands, from Alexisonfire, to Pierce the Veil, to Say work hard. We tell them if Calling All Captains, a local Anything. We’re a young band still, but we want to learn band from St. Albert, can sign a record deal in New York and get better. After meeting with Dan [Sandshaw], we then the opportunity is there for them to do the same - all clicked instantly and had nothing but good vibes when you have to do is put in the work it requires to move talking about the direction of the band and our visions. forward.” We’re excited to see what the future holds!” Gauthier said his message to would-be musicians is “This is the biggest opportunity we’ve ever had,” noted really quite simple; “go home at night or after school, write Gauthier. “We’re trying to hit the ground running some poems and put some music to the lyrics. Practice (because) we really want to make the most of this makes perfect and if you want to succeed you’ll have to be opportunity.” willing to put in the hard work that it takes to do so. Start Calling All Captains has shared the stage alongside acts small and work hard and soon you will be able to expand like Silverstein, Seaway, Boston Manor, Broadside, Like your horizons because opportunity lies in wait at every Pacific, Rarity, and others. Their first and latest single, juncture of your life.” Disconnected, amassed more than 500,000 views on Gauthier said he encourages young musicians to write Spotify before the band was signed by EVR, an effort that material on topics they believe is important, then perform was fortified by the band’s ongoing work ethic and the songs and upload them to internet media such as reputation for delivering high-energy performances during YouTube and Spotify. their shows. “Lots of groups get their start in this way,” he noted, For more information and music by Calling All adding that “you need to have people like your music and Captains visit facebook.com/Callingallcaptainsband/ when they do, the acclaim can come quickly. It’s important and callingallcaptains.bandcamp.com/ not to get too far ahead of yourself, but equally important to think positive, to think big and to work hard.” As a case worker, musician, dancer and owner of his own line of clothing, Gauthier admits that balancing everything can be quite the chore, “and pretty much impossible without the help of my longtime
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Alberta Native News
September, 2018