Alberta Native News - Digital Edition - December, 2016

Volume 33 Number 12 December, 2016

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Cover art: Secret Guardian Š by Amy Keller-Rempp, Visit amykeller.com and see article on page 4

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Alberta Native News

December, 2016

Roberta Jamieson discusses human rights violations in Canada - past and present

by John Copley In the fall of 1998 the University of Alberta introduced its first Visiting Lectureship in Human Rights series, a new and innovative program that today is envisioned as one of the preeminent annual events held at the University. The initiative invites individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions in the field of human rights protection to deliver a major public lecture in Edmonton. During their visit the guest speakers are also invited to attend other significant events at the University of Alberta, the City of Edmonton and within the Province of Alberta.

On November 28, 2016 the university’s Deputy Provost, Wendy Rodgers, introduced the program’s latest guest lecturer, Roberta Jamieson, the well-known, and highly respected head of Indspire, a Toronto-based charitable organization with a mandate dedicated solely to raising the funds necessary to deliver programs that provide tools for Indigenous peoples. Since her appointment as President and CEO of Indspire in the fall of 2004, Jamieson’s leadership and vision has propelled the organization forward and has been named by the Financial Post as one of the top 25 charities in North America. In 2015-16 Indspire disbursed over $12 million through more than 3,790 bursaries and scholarships to Indigenous students across Canada. The program has increased its disbursement sevenfold since Jamieson’s appointment.

After acknowledging Treaty 6 Territory and thanking Indspire laureates Muriel Stanley-Venne and Marilyn Buffalo for the honouring ceremony they performed before her lecture, Jamieson took to the podium and began by noting how much of an honour it was to have been invited by the University of Alberta to participate in the important human rights-based lecture series.

“I am certainly honoured by the opportunity offered by the university to participate in this visiting lectureship,” she began. “I want to take this opportunity to engage in a

dialogue about how we can successfully meet Canada’s most fundamental, greatest, deepest, longest human right challenge that is the relationship between Indigenous people and the rest of Canada.”

Roberta Jamieson and Marilyn Buffalo posed for a photo during Speaking frankly about that Jamieson's Human Rights lecture at the University of Alberta. relationship, Jamieson told the audience that her “goal tonight is to do some serious consciousness raising” and to “make certain that we all know how we got here and I want to encourage each of us to take part in implementing a solution.”

She alluded to the importance of relationships, noting that Indigenous peoples “are all about relationships, relationships that begin with the most important one, the one we have with Mother Earth, the relationship that provides us with the food we eat, the water we drink, the medicines we need.”

She spoke about family relationships Irene Morin from Enoch First Nation and Deputy Provost Dr. Wendy and the relationships that were Rodgers participated in UA's Visiting Lectureship in Human Rights. established centuries ago with those who arrived on Canada’s shores from other parts of the of the Grand River Territory. Once introduced as “a vocal world. She spoke about the importance of those advocate for the preservation and enhancement of human relationships and assured the audience that the rights, Indigenous rights specifically, as a part of realizing relationships and treaties signed those many years ago are Canada's potential,” Jamieson was the first First Nations just as “alive and meaningful today” as they were on the woman to complete a law degree. She has been a day Indigenous leaders and the crown agreed to them and Commissioner of the Indian Commission of Ontario, an Ombudsman and an elected Chief of the Six Nations of signed them.

“Each one of you here today, your families, your life in the Grand River Territory. Her people signed their treaty Alberta, our being here together tonight, is a consequence with the Crown in the 1780s, more than 100 years before of those treaties and that treaty relationship,” she the signing of Treaty 6, and thus her people have had many explained. “We should all dealings with non-Indigenous members of society, be conscious of that fact so including the Crown, which is assigned to protect and that we can put our honour treaty rights - but she noted during her lecture, that relationship with is not always the case.

“What we have generally faced in return, with some Indigenous peoples in context so we can think exceptions,” she noted, “has been pollution, about human rights in that discrimination, rejection, marginalization, racism, context. We have centuries violations of human rights and a propensity to of relationships with those aggressively demand justice. We’ve had our land taken, we welcomed, sheltered, our money, even our children.”

She went on to note that over the years, governments protected, shared our knowledge with, fought have also “aggressively” forced Indigenous peoples to battles for and above all follow their politics, their religions, their beliefs - now they else, shared our land with, come to us and say they want to reconcile. I can tell you our resources, our that many of our people are wary of those who come to tell friendship - all through this us about the wonderful relationship they are going to offer time and to the present us - on their terms. We keep our ears open, hoping to hear that they want to work with us in developing and day.”

Roberta Louise honouring mutually beneficial relationships. The good Jamieson is a Mohawk part, the amazing part, is that in spite of this history we are woman and a member and still open to listen and that we are still willing to share, resident of the Six Nations again. What we are seeking though, are respectful, Continued on page 5

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Our cover artist: Amy Keller-Rempp

by John Copley The beautiful cover - Secret Guardian - on the December 2016 issue of Alberta Native News is the work of 34-year-old Edmonton-area resident and artist, Amy Keller-Rempp. Her creation Spirit River took home the second-place prize when the winners of the 34th Annual Peace Hills Aboriginal Art Contest were announced in October.

“It was an exciting moment for me, and one that I’ll likely never forget,” noted the artist in a recent interview about her work and her second-place finish. “It was a humbling experience to be chosen in the top three this year; there were so many talented artists and so many beautiful works for the judges to choose from. I was quite surprised when I received the call and I think I’ve been smiling ever since.”

Spirit River is an astoundingly beautiful portrait of a grizzly bear relaxing in a stream of water as the gentle wind pushes a multi-coloured array of mini-waves towards him.

The winner of the 2016 Peace Hills Aboriginal Art Contest is Bonny Graham, a resident of Hope, British Columbia and an artist whose work is inspired by the richness of her Indigenous ancestry and her strong desire to preserve Aboriginal language through her art.

“My designs,” she explained, “are a tribute to my heritage, to language and the environment, life and culture (and) the physical and spiritual power it embraces.”

Graham’s winning entry, Diversity/Vibrant Reflections, is a colourful feathered-design painting that reflects the culture of West Coast Indigenous nations.

Third place finisher is Lloydminster, Saskatchewan resident Danielle Vachon, whose entry, Process of Peace, highlights a beautifully coloured group of tipis standing in front of a mystical background that embraces silhouetted city buildings and mountainous terrain.

First, second and third place prizes in the adult category are $5,000, $3,000 and $2,000 respectively.

“Placing second in this prestigious annual competition is a tremendous honour and one that I will cherish for many

Life's Journey © by Amy Keller-Rempp

years to come,” smiled Keller-Rempp, who has been creating art since she was ten years old.

She has spent the last 20 years developing what has become an incredible talent, not only in the work she creates but also in the way she constructs it. Her creations are stunning, her talents, multi-faceted. Her work combines realism and modern impressionism and her finished masterpieces must be seen to be truly appreciated.

Keller-Rempp works with pen, pencil and paint, and also with beaver pelts and moose antlers. Her expertise with an airbrush is something she finds particularly valuable, especially when it comes to her latest media, metal (aluminum).

One of her metal creations can be seen at the Fort McMurray Airport, along with that of Jane Ash-Poitras and other renowned Canadian artists. Another – Spirit River - can be seen on the Peace Hills Trust webpage.

“Amy is a very impressive person and a brilliant artist,” noted Scott Clements, CEO and President of the Fort McMurray Airport Authority. “Other airports also have art programs and I talk to my colleagues about the various artwork and how aware and proud we are of it. About 350 artists applied to have their artwork installed at our airport and it was (difficult)

to choose the four that we did from so many entries. When I saw Amy’s work I was immediately impressed and after seeing it we added a fifth piece of art.”

That work embraces an eagle in full flight in the midst of the Northern Lights, something that Clements said was both awe-inspiring and “very suitable” to the northeastern Alberta airport terminal.

Keller-Rempp says the airbrush has always been a favourite tool but her work with metal is a more recent undertaking.

“When I was growing up my dad often took me aside and told me that I needed to improve my art - at least the realism of the art I was creating,” she explained. “He was an avid outdoorsman and as such he knew the animals and just how they appeared in the wild - he’d teach me things about the colour, the contrast, the thickness and highlights of the fur, the shape it took. It was amazing and from his guidance I learned a great deal - today I like to see every hair in its place. That’s the realism of what I create. I took up working with metal because of its uniqueness. I draw the design I want, then take a grinder to the piece and lightly etch in what I am trying to create. It’s a process that requires time and expertise, and I got that thanks to the guys at Baker Boyz Designs here in Edmonton. I had already had some experience with airbrushing but after completing the course they offer, I became much more proficient. I learned a great deal; Shane Baker and his team are great!”

Amy Keller-Rempp is Métis, the daughter of a hardContinued on page 9

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Wilton Littlechild elected Grand Chief of Treaty 6 Nations (Enoch, AB) - On November 30, 2016 Chiefs of the Confederacy of Treaty Six First Nations nominated Dr. Wilton Littlechild to the position of the Grand Chief of their political organization and he has officially accepted becoming the first “non-sitting” Chief to the hold the position. Dr. Wilton Littlechild will hold the position of the Grand Chief for a three-year term.

The Confederacy has been in operation since 1993 and acts as a collective political entity for the Chiefs of the seventeen First Nations of Treaty Six west of the Alberta/Saskatchewan border. Treaty No. 6 of 1876 has a land mass that when the provincial boundaries were established, crossed three provinces. Previously the Grand Chief who acts as the spokesperson for the Chiefs has been rotated annually among the Chiefs; however, the workload of being the Chief of a First Nation is a full-time job and the added responsibilities of being the Grand Chief is often overwhelming by the demands. The Chiefs have been considering making the move to a full time Grand Chief for several years and finally have found the individual they all have great respect for in the person of Wilton Littlechild. Other names were put forth but all agreed upon

Human rights

cont. from p 2

collaborative, bilateral, reciprocal relationships that are relevant and productive to both parties.”

During her one hour lecture Roberta Jamieson delved into many aspects involving human rights and the importance of retaining and maintaining languages, cultures, spiritual beliefs and traditions. She talked about the residential school experience, the damage it created and the long-lasting effects that that experience has had on Indigenous peoples across this nation and beyond. She spoke about poverty, education, housing, employment and other inequities faced by Indigenous peoples. She also cautioned the audience that though she would like to see every Canadian become involved in the process of realistic and meaningful reconciliation, “you will have to be a bit patient with us because the first thing we are going to experience is suspicion - and I think you know why.”

Jamieson also addressed the evolutionary concept of human rights issues in Canada today, the systemic denial of human rights in Canada and how in this great country “the denial of human rights continues to be supported by law.” She began at the beginning and educated the audience about the Royal Proclamation issued by King George III in 1763 that guaranteed Indigenous peoples both equitable human rights and payment for land utilized by settlers who want to live on it.

“For a century,” she noted “we all lived in peace. Then 100 years later when Canada asked for and was given permission to colonize and thus form the country we call Canada,” things changed dramatically and drastically.

“It began,” noted Jamieson, “when Sir John A. MacDonald passed a law that declared that Indigenous people were not civilized and were thus incapable of

Dr. Littlechild.

“Willie” is a highly-respected individual, renowned for his work at the United Nations advocating for the Rights of Indigenous Peoples; he spent nearly thirty years working on the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) that was adopted by the UN General Assembly in 2007. He was the first Treaty person to graduate with a law degree from the University of Alberta, he is a former Member of Parliament, the recipient of the Order of Canada, and has also received countless awards in business and sports. He recently completed a six-year term on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada on the Indian Residential School era.

Willie was the first North American representative at the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues and has completed his term on the UN Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (EMPRIP). He has taught post-secondary students on the Treaties and is a sought-after key-note speaker. In his acceptance speech, he stated he would focus on carrying out the political directives of the Chiefs, protecting Treaty

Wilton "Willie" Littlechild

No. 6 and building relationships. He said, “I look forward to meeting you in each of your nations.”

Chief Randy Ermineskin had accepted the appointment as interim Grand Chief this past summer for a six month period. Chief Ermineskin stated that he would work towards bringing in a competent individual to fulfill the Grand Chief role and at their regular meeting he fulfilled his commitment. The Chiefs expressed their appreciation to Grand Chief Ermineskin for taking on the duties and responsibilities during his six-month term.

There will be a one month transition period between Grand Chief Ermineskin and Grand Chief Littlechild with a traditional leadership transfer ceremony being planned in the new year.

managing their own affairs, or raising their own children and we became wards of the government.

This happened with an act that was called ‘An Act of the Gradual Civilization of Indian,’ and from that moment forward became a legalized system of systemic racism and the continued violation of (L-R)Asiniy Morin, Leo Paskemin, leader Rocky Morin, Adrian Cross and Tevin human rights.”

Meetoos are members of the popular Treaty 6 drum group, The Blackstone Singers Jamieson explained how that Act, which declared years.

Indigenous peoples as not being fully human, set in Jamieson is a learned scholar and a brilliant speaker and motion a belief that Indigenous peoples are inferior and the standing ovation she received from a predominately not worthy of either respect or dignity. Other non-Indigenous full house is indicative of the fact that proclamations, as well as recommendations and harsh Canadians are tired of government’s penchant for words from the United Nations about Canada’s treatment belittling Canada’s Aboriginal communities and peoples. of its Indigenous citizens, went unheeded; instead the Her words were clear and her delivery outstanding; government introduced the Indian Act, an archaic hopefully those in attendance and those who hear her document that continues to vilify Indigenous peoples. speak at other venues will stand up and speak out “It is strange to note that Indigenous peoples were whenever they see Indigenous people being slighted or civilized enough and human enough to give up their land mistreated, be it by government, society or individual and resources in partnerships, but not civilized enough to action. look after their own internal affairs,” Jamieson Roberta Jamieson has earned numerous awards, commented. “We could, of course become fully human, including, most recently, the Testimonial Award from but only if we gave up being Indigenous.”

Canada’s Public Policy Forum and the Council of Ontario During her lecture, Jamieson covered far more ground Universities’ 2014 David C. Smith Award, as well as 25 that we can include here today; to learn more, see honorary degrees. She has been named three times to the the indspire.ca website or type her name into your internet Women’s Executive Network’s Top 100 list. And she is an browser where you may come across one of the many Officer of the Order of Canada. dialogues she’s had with Canadians during recent

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Albertans must demand a better child welfare system

by John Copley Alberta’s Indigenous children are in dire need of a social and medical services portfolio that not only guarantees them viable and equitable government services, but also includes a team of Indigenous Elders and community leaders able to ensure that the provincial government does more than make empty commitments. When it comes to Indigenous children, the provincial government's child services sector is made up of many bureaucrats and managers that don’t have a clue when it comes to providing services that actually work. That has much to do with their continued failure to employ an equitable number of Indigenous workers - office staff and frontline workers - who understand and are familiar with Indigenous cultures, traditions and peoples. Instead they employ a number of buck-passers, case workers who are actually afraid to go out into the communities they purport to represent and managers that fail to follow-up when children are in or have recently been in crisis situations.

There are cases where workers, who are supposed to visit children in care at least once a month, choose instead to merely make a phone call to ask “how is everything with the children?” only to be told that all is okay - when in fact it may not be. And who is to know? Certainly not the case workers or their managers in a government department whose salaries are paid by tax-paying Albertans.

Unfortunately there are too many regulations in place that allow government to cover up and hide the realities when it comes to Indigenous children in care - and that is likely the reason why during the past 18 years the number of Indigenous children in care has increased almost twofold. Two decades ago about 40 percent of kids in care were Aboriginal children; today that number is closer to 70 percent and that is a huge and unacceptable number when you realize that only 10 percent of the children who reside in Alberta identify as Indigenous.

The Office of the Child and Youth Advocate released a 76 page report in July 2016 that made eight recommendations on ways to better serve Indigenous children who need intervention. A key finding was the

importance of giving Indigenous people more rights and responsibilities to care for their own children. The province’s Child and Youth Advocate, Del Graff, said he expects the government to start enacting the recommendations in January 2017 but noted that similar recommendations have been ignored in the past.

Another report was released in October, bringing the total number of Graff’s investigative reviews to 20 - all since 2011. The two children (girls) mentioned in those reports, a baby and a toddler, both died as a result of injuries they received in care; it appears as though the five recommendations made in those reports were largely ignored.

"We put a lot of time and energy into our recommendations,” stated Graff, “and we believe they would make a difference for young people; the sooner they're acted upon the better.”

In the case of four year old Marie - not her real name - Graff called for changes when it comes to kinship care, which is when a child is put into a home with family members or close relatives.

The caregivers were not properly trained, something that Graff said should be mandatory. He noted that the process of incorporating family members as caregivers relies “heavily on self reporting by the applicants” and that more needs to be done to ensure that they are properly trained. In this case the caregivers knew that kinship training was available but because “there was no requirement that they attend,” they did not attend.

Donald Langford, Executive Director of Métis Child and Family Services Society, says in the last two decades the province has made “no progress” when it comes to the care and nurturing of Indigenous children. He says that despite twenty years of ongoing changes to the programs, policies and initiatives set up to look after children in care, little or no progress has been made.

“It’s actually getting worse,” he said in an interview.

“The number of Indigenous children in care in Alberta has risen from 40 to nearly 70 percent” in that time. “We have far too many non-Indigenous people in the child welfare system telling us what to do and how to do it. They’ve had more than two decades to get it right and they have failed miserably; maybe it is now time to give the Indigenous Continued on page 12

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Poundmaker’s annual sober walk stresses health and sobriety

by John Copley On November 17, more than 100 people joined staff and administration from Poundmaker’s Lodge Treatment Centre to celebrate National Addictions Awareness week with an annual Sober Walk in Edmonton that began at Canada Place and ended at the Alberta Legislature. Shortly after arriving at the stairs to Legislature building several guest speakers took to the podium to talk about the benefits of living a healthy life free of drugs and alcohol.

Poundmaker’s Cultural Advisor Robert Johnson was among the first to speak, welcoming and thanking those who braved the cold weather and gusting wind to support a cause that is vital to the well-being of Canada’s Indigenous communities.

“Sobriety is at the cornerstone of what I do today,” assured Johnson, who encouraged those in attendance to maintain their sober and addictions free lifestyles by thinking ahead, and never looking back.

“Don't think about yesterday or dwell on the past,” he said, “but look instead to the present and think of the future. Our unofficial mandate at Poundmaker’s Lodge is to make certain that you understand that addictions can be remedied; clean and sober you can go back to the old way of life where you can live in a spiritual way and enjoy the good and positive things in life."

Johnson, who worked with Brad Cardinal as a counsellor at Poundmaker’s in the early 1990s, lauded the now-Executive Director for his vision and purpose and told the crowd that after Poundmaker’s, “Brad worked for the government for more than 30 years and now he’s back at Poundmaker’s; we are grateful to have him back working for the people and with the Creator.”

Poundmaker's board member Jim Brule took to the podium to offer a prayer and congratulate participants for their involvement and determination to achieve sobriety.

Executive Director Brad Cardinal welcomed the gathering and thanked them for their participation and their sojourn into sobriety. He spoke about national addictions awareness week and the significant role it plays in helping Canada’s Indigenous communities overcome issues of alcohol and substance abuse, much of it brought on by the trauma of the Residential School era. Cardinal noted that that this important national initiative was originally spearheaded by respected Indigenous Elder, Dr. Maggie Hodgson, an initiative that continues to gather momentum with each passing year.

“In the spirit of our visionary leader, Chief

Poundmaker,” he said, “we have faced our challenges with a brave heart. Many years ago, our Elders had the foresight and vision of seeing this work progress through hard work, determination and a collaborative effort.”

Talking about the challenges faced and the accomplishments made by the world-renowned addictions awareness and treatment program, Cardinal thanked the provincial government for its ongoing support, noting that Poundmaker’s success comes as a result of hard work and being “fortunate enough to have developed several partnerships at the provincial, national and Poundmaker's Lodge Executive Director Brad Cardinal and several Sober Walk international levels; this guest speakers looked on as the crowd gathered in front of the steps to the has enabled our programs Legislature Building. to be delivered to a broader audience than we had Woman’ in a Plains Cree Sun Dance ceremony, was born previously anticipated.” and raised on the Samson Cree Nation and attended In fact, initiatives that originated and were developed by Ermineskin Residential School in Maskwacis, Alberta, for Poundmaker’s Lodge administrators and staff are nine years. During her tenure with the national women’s currently being delivered in numerous countries around association Buffalo denounced the Statement of the world.

Reconciliation offered by (then) Indian Affairs Minister Elder Marilyn Buffalo, a descendent of Yellow Mud Jane Stewart, because it did not meet the standards of a full Blanket, brother of Chief Poundmaker, original signatory apology. She negotiated and implemented a 5-year to Treaty No. 6 of 1876, was introduced as “a tireless national partnership agreement with HRDC, the net worth advocate for women’s rights and a long-standing of $15 million for Aboriginal women employment and supporter of Poundmaker’s Lodge Treatment Centres.” training initiatives. From 2000 to 2005, she acted as Senior She congratulated the congregation of supporters for Policy Advisor to the Samson Cree Nation in Ottawa and attending the event and encouraged “those of you who at the same time advised a legal team on policy and went to the Poundmaker’s Treatment Centre for help with communications matters associated with landmark (Victor your sobriety to give yourself a pat on the back and a big Buffalo vs. the Queen) treaty rights and breach of trust round of applause for what you have accomplished.” lawsuit.

As a former national leader who presided over the She was recognized by Chatelaine Magazine in Native Women’s Association of Canada from 1997 Continued on page 16 through 2000 Buffalo, who was named ‘Morning Sun

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Amy Keller-Rempp

cont. from p 4

working German-born pipeline worker (Dale) and a proud and nurturing Tyendinaga Mohawk woman (Bonnie), both of whom supported and encouraged her to pursue her artistic talents. Growing up in rural Ontario provided the aspiring artist with many ideas, a great deal of inspiration and an opportunity to study animals and their habitats.

“My parents,” she explained, “have always been the driving force. They often told me how proud they were of me; both said I would be famous one day. They encouraged me to continue to grow and though my dad is no longer here, I still feel that encouragement.”

Keller-Rempp was also encouraged by other family members, including her uncle, Jerry Fuller, a talented artist who once had his own private art show.

When Amy was just seven years old her father was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, a disease he battled for 15 years; he passed away in 2004 at the age of 48.

“He was a real inspiration to everyone who knew him,” she sighed. “He was dedicated to his family, his work and his passion for the outdoors. He spent every possible moment teaching me how to fish, hunt, trap and simply observe nature.”

Amy’s mother continues to encourage her development, fully supports her work “and is definitely my biggest fan,” chuckled Keller-Rempp.

Amy moved to Alberta in 2008; she currently resides in the Capital Region with her husband and business manager, Antoine and their two daughters, aged two and three.

“I like the west; it’s given me an opportunity to see a larger perspective of this beautiful country,” she explained.

“It has also allowed me to expand as an artist and provide an opportunity to explore new and exciting styles of painting. I love wildlife and that love is reflected throughout much of my work. I also like to reflect the spirit of the creatures I create through their eyes, actions and expressions; every small detail counts.”

That beautiful work, created with either oils or acrylics, is indeed a sight to behold. The effort and attention to detail that Amy Keller-Rempp puts into creations is her Amy Keller-Rempp with her installation at the Fort McMurray Airport. synonymous with the finished products, which to Fleming College’s, School of Fine Arts, in Haliburton, this viewer, are perfect in every way. Her paintings on Ontario. Her work can be seen in various Alberta, B.C. and beaver pelts are stunning; her “Realism series” is a gallery Ontario galleries and of course on her website. A repertoire filled with wildlife - with each branch, every critter, every of her art shows and exhibitions, and a full list of artwork hair on every head just as it should be, both in colour and that she has donated to various causes throughout the years texture. Her “Skydance series” is filled with owls and can also be found there. eagles and ravens that sit, fly and soar across the northernAmy continues to work to improve and refine her talent lit skies in a variety of designs and colours guaranteed to and her art; her goal is to bring life, feeling and energy to catch the eye of the beholder; her airbrush series her creations. Check out the website and I think you’ll get showcases wolves, bison, owls, eagles and landscapes. an emotional boost as you think: wow - these works are And there’s much much more - you can see it all at filled with life and feeling and emotion; they give me amykeller.com. goosebumps!

Keller-Rempp completed her education at Sir Sanford amykeller.com - be sure to check it out.

AFN Honours Gord Downie, Pays Tribute to Reconciliation Legacy GATINEAU, QC/CNW/ - The Assembly of First Nations honoured Canadian artist and musician Gord Downie for his work on Reconciliation by presenting him with a star blanket and acknowledgment of the naming ceremony that he recently participated in. He was presented with a specially-commissioned painting in front of the Chiefs-in-Assembly, the Prime Minister of Canada, and members of the Downie family.

On December 6, 2016 AFN National Chief Perry Bellegarde and his wife Valerie wrapped Mr. Downie in a starblanket in the presence of Elders and Chiefs, Grand Chiefs, First Nations youth and other present at the recent AFN Special Chiefs Assembly in Gatineau. The star blanket is bestowed to demonstrate respect and admiration for an individual. The blanket is wrapped around the person to convey protection, warmth and to alleviate loneliness. The naming ceremony followed the bestowing of an eagle feather, another very high honour. Mr. Downie also received the name Wicapi Omani, which is Lakota for Walks with the Stars.

"Gord Downie is shining a light on the inequality experienced by indigenous peoples.

Today, we lift up and honour Gord Downie, whose words and music have introduced millions

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of Canadians to the story of Chanie Wenjack, a young boy who has come to represent the thousands of children subjected to the Residential Schools system, just one of the many who was taken from his family never to see them again," said National Chief Bellegarde. "Gord's devotion to sharing Chanie's story with Canadians will help to open eyes to a tragic history and light the way to a brighter and more just future for our peoples. First Nations are gathered here under the theme 'Advancing Reconciliation', and that's exactly what Gord is doing through his work."

The honouring included presentation of an Eagle feather, one of the highest honours bestowed to individuals who show great leadership, courage and commitment.

AFN Regional Chief for Nova Scotia-Newfoundland Morley Googoo of the Waycobah First Nation presented a painting commissioned for Mr. Downie by Loretta Gould, a Mi'kmaq artist who envisioned Gord Downie

and Chanie Wenjack meeting in the work, entitled Share our Teachings. Regional Chief Googoo recently launched the Legacy Room initiative to encourage companies to designate special rooms for discussion and advancement of Reconciliation with the newly created Gord Downie and Chanie Wenjack Fund.

"Gord's main objective with the Secret Path project was to create a conversation about Reconciliation that would span generations," said Regional Chief Googoo. "I am honoured today to present him with this beautiful depiction in recognition of his lasting contribution to Reconciliation on behalf of the AFN." Gord Downie is currently touring The Secret Path, an animated film based on Mr. Downie's poems and music and illustrations by comic artist Jeff Lemire. Proceeds from the Secret Path album and graphic novel will be donated to the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation at the University of Manitoba. The Secret Path and Road to Reconciliation panel discussion can be watched at cbc.ca/secretpath.

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Scona High School hosts Métis Week celebration

by John Copley Strathcona High, an Edmonton Public Schools District high school, known as Scona, is located at 10450 72 Avenue. Originally constructed to hold 1200 students the facility underwent $455 million in renovations in 2014/15 and that number has since increased to about 1500.

Historically, the school, like many throughout the country, did not have a great deal of Indigenous representation or programming that was Indigenous-specific, but in recent years that trend has changed and today, cultural programs are regularly scheduled.

The most recent cultural activity at Scona took place on Tuesday, November 29 when the Founding Cultures Club hosted a Métis Cultural Celebration and Indigenous Cultural Market in honour of Métis Week, an annual event that celebrates Métis culture and identity.

I was introduced to the classroom by Taylor Rubin, the Cultural Liaison: Student Services at Scona, Avalon and Lendrum Schools. A University of Alberta graduate who earned both her Bachelor of Education degree and her Community Service-Learning Certificate in 2014, Rubin is also a Scona High School alumni.

A half dozen students, who were introduced as part of the Fun and Culture Group, welcomed guests as we arrived at the classroom door to participate in the school’s 2016 Métis Week event. In all, the initiative saw more than 60 students and guests participate and enjoy such things as Métis dancers, learning basic beadwork, line and round dancing, visiting one of the crafts booths or munching on some very tasty student-made cupcakes.

“The Scona's Founding Cultures Club,” explained Rubin, “is a revamped version of a previous club here at the school. Our purpose is to bring students together who share a common interest in Indigenous issues and activities. This club is fully inclusive, all students are welcome. The goal is to have our students take a lead role in the majority of our meetings and activities. With a diverse group of students, we look forward to learning from one another and giving students the opportunity to

share their knowledge and strengths. I look forward to supporting all First Nations, Métis and Inuit students here at Strathcona to be successful, wellrounded individuals.”

Rubin, an advocate for Founding Culture Club members: Christien Ford, Mystik Robinson-Tod, Hannah social justice and Kletke, Jasmine Slobodian, Justin Wanyandie, Jarod Slobodian and Asher community-based Friedland. learning, was “born and raised” on Treaty 6 Territory. She knows the community simple and it allows them to make some unique items and what it offers and is able to connect students with both for themselves, their family members and friends.”

The braided strands she demonstrated to the students supportive members of the community who aid and can be made to any length, and used for such as things as encourage them in their personal growth. Benefits derived neck-pieces, bookmarks, zipper pulls and as bracelets, from these connections include such things as identity tags on luggage and suitcases when travelling employment, volunteer opportunities, academic support, away from home. cultural growth, health and wellness activities and more.

“The girls catch on to it but the boys excel when it Kaylem Mockford, a Métis student of Dene/Scottish comes to finger-weaving,” smiled Morin, noting that, ancestry, welcomed the students and guests to the event, “boys play more video games and as such they have very noting that “it is important to honour and celebrate Métis fingers.” dexterous culture and recognize them as a distinct people who have Morin visits many schools over the course of a year to brought yet another meaningful way of life to Canada.” work with students and conduct culturally-oriented artistic Representatives, students and chaperones from workshops that encourage awareness of Métis traditions. numerous other schools also attended the Scona event.

Together with Terry Lusty, Calvin Bruno and others, These included Lendrum Elementary, Avalon Jr. High, J. Morin participates on the Amiskwaciy History Sharon Percy Page, Centre High, FNMI Education and the Series, which is broadcast on Shaw TV’s Cable 10. The University of Alberta. Sharon Morin, the manager of the Amiskwaciy History Series is an Aboriginal led grassroots St. Albert-based Heritage Museum also attended and aimed at creating awareness regarding the ofteninitiative offered students the opportunity to learn a few basic untold Indigenous history of the Edmonton area. The finger-weaving techniques that they could take home and name Amiskwaciy comes from Amiskwaciy Waskahikan practice with. She was accompanied by St. Albert or “Beaver Hill House,” a Cree term used to describe the Museum employee, Brett Lamoureaux. area now known as Edmonton.

Through free monthly “I really enjoy coming out to these types of cultural educational sessions, the Amiskwaciy History Series is events,” noted Morin, who for many years has been designed to provide accessible and culturally appropriate involved in local initiatives designed to promote and education to the public on Aboriginal history as lived and enhance Metis culture, identity and participation. “The finger weaving technique I share with the kids is fairly Continued on page 12

December, 2016

Alberta Native News

11

Fatherhood sets new path for Native Studies grad

By Bridget Stirling, University of Alberta When Native Studies graduate Grant Bruno looks at his three children, he knows he’s not only making a better future for his family; he’s also modelling a path for them to follow—a route that his sons set him on before they were even born.

“I have twin boys, they’re seven, and a little guy who’ll be two in January,” he said. “They’re going to see me do it and be successful, so they’re going to have somebody to look up to.”

Fatherhood is what set Bruno’s feet on the path to university. At 21, he’d dropped out of high school, tried college, and dropped out again. But then he learned some huge news: he was going to be a dad, not just to one child, but to twins.

“I had the choice to either start making a lot of money quickly or go back to school and sacrifice for the future.”

His partner convinced him to apply to Red Deer College, and once he was there, Bruno learned he was a better student than he’d ever thought possible.

“Growing up, I was not given a lot of positive reinforcement. I wasn’t the greatest student, and I could tell that teachers would get annoyed with me,” he said. But post-secondary courses challenged him to do more. “After my first semester, I got it into my brain—I’m going to do a master’s. It was that early.”

He considered going to Calgary for school, but then he came across the U of A’s Faculty of Native Studies, a place that offered an opportunity not only to pursue his academic interests, but also to stay close enough to his home in Maskwacis to be with his family every night.

“Gas probably costs about the same as rent for the month. But it was well worth it. I’m very happy with the decision. Instead of me having to commute from Calgary every weekend, I could see them every day.”

The first year of Bruno’s transition to university was difficult, but the close-knit community in the faculty helped keep him going: “If I was to try that and I was in a different faculty, I probably would have failed.”

At the heart of his success, Bruno believes, are the relationships he built with students, staff and faculty.

“I made some really great friendships here—friendships that will probably take me into the rest of my life,” he

explained. “Before, it was almost like dysfunctional friendships, but when you start making relationships within the faculty here, you become really close, and can discuss you controversial subjects and have good dialogue and bounce ideas off each Grant Bruno found strong friendships, supportive professors and meaningful other.” research opportunities in UAlberta's Faculty of Native Studies. (Photo: Richard Not only did he develop Siemens) strong friendships, but he also developed a network of supportive faculty members from Maskwacis, giving him an immediate sense of who helped him achieve his goal of entering a graduate giving back to his home community.

“From there, we took it a step further. To my knowledge, program. His first research job was with Professor Frank we are doing the first-ever look at Indigenous fathers’ roles Tough in the Métis Archival Project lab. That project gave for maternal health,” Bruno explained. “That’s never been him the research grounding to take on his next job on a There have been studies done on Indigenous done. project working on maternal health in Maskwacis - a fatherhood, but nothing in regard to maternal health.” perfect fit for Bruno, offering the chance to continue doing As a father himself, Bruno feels a deep personal research while giving back to his community. to the work. “When you look at health connection Part of that came about thanks to another relationship research, it’s very often deficit-oriented, where they’re with a professor who would become his graduate almost reinforcing negative stereotypes. For us, we supervisor, Brenda Parlee, who helped connect him into a wanted to stay away from the negative and say, ‘You know First Nations maternal health project led by Richard Oster what, there are great fathers, there are great Indigenous as part of the provincewide ENRICH research initiative they’re doing great jobs, here’s their story.’” fathers, funded by Alberta Innovates - Health Solutions.

Not only has ENRICH provided a space for meaningful “I took Brenda’s community-based methods class, and research, but also, Bruno said, his supervisors have offered after that class, she introduced me to my other supervisor, continuation of the support he felt as an undergrad: a who gave me my second research position, and through “They, plus everyone else in ENRICH, have been a great that position, I’m able to do my master’s now.”

Although an MA in Native Studies was his original support for me.”

His time at the university has also allowed Bruno to plan, he’s now an MSc student in the Department of grow in another way: as a model for other people from his Resource Economics and Environmental Sociology, community looking to post-secondary education, showing working with Parlee and ENRICH principal investigator that there’s a place for them on campus.

Rhonda Bell to continue his work.

Bruno explained that finding a place for himself wasn’t Even though he’s just starting out, that undergraduate research experience helped set Bruno well on the path for Continued on page 19 his graduate studies. His first study examined the effect of health-care provider perceptions on effective prenatal care for women

12

Alberta Native News

Metis Week

cont. from p 10

told by the people.

Centre High Campus Aboriginal Liaison Naim Cardinal arrived with several students who participated throughout the event. Cardinal often visits cultural and other events hosted by schools and leadership groups. He is also currently coaching (volunteer), along with several other basketball players/coaches, the Amiskwaciy Eagles, the relatively new Sr. boys’ basketball team at Amiskwaciy Academy.

“Naim initiated the program because he wants to see more of our boys involved in sports, particularly basketball, something he is quite good at,” explained Amiskwaciy Academy teacher and sports buff, Terrace Mah. “Naim is working with two other role models, Michael Swampy and Dakota Nepoose. They attend university and both are young, healthy and communityinvolved Aboriginal guys who are making a positive difference in the lives of some of these kids. Youth need role models and they need to participate in activities that keep them healthy and I believe the basketball program has improved attendance and the overall well-being of the student body.”

The basketball program has become a source of pride and achievement for the school.

“This is our first year as participants in the Metropolitan League, a league that sees various schools within the district compete in high school basketball. We play games

Child welfare

cont. from p 6

community an opportunity to do a better job than we are seeing today.”

And what are we seeing today? We are seeing babies and toddlers and young children being abused by caregivers, beaten and sexually assaulted, isolated from their families and communities; many have even died from neglect. In numerous cases there has been no resolution, no answers, no accountability and no punishment for those who abuse and neglect the Indigenous children in their care.

Recommendations from the Child and Youth Advocate’s office have been ongoing, at least since 2011, the year Del Graff became the province's Child and Youth Advocate. His office, which is totally independent and not part of Alberta’s government bureaucracy, has provided numerous recommendations over the years, which it does every time Graff writes a report, but in many instances those recommendation are all for naught. Yes, many recommendations have been accepted and supposedly implemented but trying to find the results is impossible.

Despite this, Graff said he’s “more optimistic than ever before” that the current environment in Alberta (ie: Notley’s government) “will lead to real change,” because of the “broader public discussion” taking place on

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every week and we pretty much have a full complement of players,” noted Mah. Two University of Alberta students, Ambrose Cardinal and Cassidy Halcrow attended the Strathcona celebration and performed several traditional Métis dances.

Ambrose is a member of the Student Council while Cassidy is a representative of the New Studies Student’s Association.

Cardinal has been jigging for about a year.

Originally from Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, he hopes to pursue a career in physiotherapy and is currently in his second year as a Kinesiology student.

Halcrow, who has been involved in powwow dancing for three years, has been dancing the Métis jig for about one year. She is enrolled in Education and Native Studies.

Both students are among a group of university students making an effort to have Native Studies mandatory in all faculties.

“I’d like to one day see Indigenous education taught in every school from elementary to high school to postsecondary through university,” noted Cardinal. “It’s important that all Canadians come to know and understand all of the diverse cultures that we celebrate in Canada.”

Métis Week, an annual event that celebrates Métis culture and identity, was designed to coincide with the death of the Right Honourable Louis Riel, who was executed by the Government of Canada in Regina, reconciliation.

But he remains cautious because promises have been made before and never delivered.

“Certainly there is that history of there being some calls to action, and then those calls to action have not been implemented,” he said, noting that “that’s been the history of Aboriginal stakeholders in Alberta.”

Change is possible, but first all of the pieces must be in place and those pieces include more involvement from the Indigenous communities.

“Government,” noted Graff, “does not create change, it responds to public demand. When people say they’ve had enough and put their foot down and demand change that’s when government will act.”

And it’s really just as simple as that. My advice would be to check out the Child and Youth Advocate website and watch the “Voices for Change” video; then take to the streets, call your political representatives, contact media and make some noise. Only then will government listen. It took experts, lawyers, judges and others six years to investigate and come up with recommendations following the Truth and Reconciliation hearings that were held across Canada and ended when the last of eight hearings took place in Edmonton a year ago last March. Hopefully it will not take that long to understand that something is very wrong with Alberta’s management of Indigenous children in care.

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November, 2016

Saskatchewan on November 16, 1885. Each year on this date a commemorative ceremony is held in his honour.

The ceremony “symbolizes the commitment Métis people share in striving for and promoting the visions of Louis Riel and is one of the most important dates on the Métis calendar.”

In addition to recognizing Louis Riel Day on November 16, the Métis Nation of Alberta (MNA) declared the week surrounding November 16 as “Métis Week” and has hosted the annual event for the past eight years. The week is devoted to commemorating the sacrifices of the Métis, who continue to strive toward rights and recognition as a distinct nation. The legacy of Louis Riel, a devoted Métis political leader who sacrificed his life defending the rights of the Métis people, continues to inspire both Métis youth and adults as it resonates throughout the Métis homeland.

There are many other factors to consider when it comes to providing services for Indigenous kids in care. One of these is the fact that children raised in care and away from their families are often traumatized by the experience and have a negative effect as the child grows into adulthood.

“It’s time for us to take a serious look at what we provide for services for First Nation and Métis children and their families when it comes to child welfare,” noted Graff.

To understand the urgency of that statement you need to see the “Voices for Change” video and listen to the Elders and the children, some now grown, who have been victims of the child welfare system. One alludes to the child welfare system as little more than a “modern-day residential school.”

“When children come into care,” noted Don Langford, “they have to be able to maintain contact with their families; there has to be someone they can talk to, someone who can visit them, talk to them, understand them. This could be a grandparent or an aunt or uncle; they need to know they are not forgotten and they need to know who they are and where they come from.”

In the video one girl notes that she didn’t know she had any rights until after she turned 16 and began to ask questions outside the home she was sent to. She remains “upset with the system, with my case worker, with my foster mother” noting that “I should have been able to maintain contact with my family as I grew up.”

That video needs to be seen by every Canadian. It begins with an introduction by well known and respected Saddle Lake First Nation Elder Dr. Eva Cardinal. Find it on the Child and Youth Advocate website or by typing “Voices for Change” into your internet browser - it may shock you but it will make you much wiser and perhaps encourage you to stand up and say “enough is enough!!”

You can find it at: ocya.alberta.ca by clicking on the “watch the video” link near the bottom of the page.

December, 2016

Alberta Native News

Amiskwaciy Academy hosts a wonderful Christmas feast

by John Copley On December 9 Amiskwaciy Academy hosted its annual Christmas Winter Feast, an event that saw more than 500 guests enjoy an absolutely scrumptious feast that included a Christmas ham and turkey dinner complete with tasty homemade stuffing, potatoes, vegetables, several kinds of bannock and a berry dessert that embraced a combination of raspberries, strawberries, and very tasty wild berries that once finished, had you going back for more. The Christmas Winter Feast is always a particularly enjoyable dinner at Amiskwaciy Academy, prepared by the school kitchen staff and served by a dozen student volunteers.

The celebration got underway when Amiskwaciy Elders Francis Whiskeyjack and Jeanette Lean and teacher Terrace Mah, along with about 20 students made their way to the stage and performed songs to celebrate the season and welcome the large gathering who’d come to partake in the feast.

In his opening remarks, Elder Whiskeyjack spoke about the recent opening of the Academy’s new sweat lodge, a beautiful structure designed by Stantec and built by Ledcor and a host of suppliers who contributed their time and materials to the project. Over a dozen Amiskwaciy students also helped with the project as part of their construction class. The building took about two months to construct and what was merely a vision four years ago, has become a reality today.

“The community support we received before and during the construction of this beautiful building is very much appreciated,” assured Elder Whiskeyjack. “I am pleased to say that we recently held our first sweat in the new facility; the students participated and they really enjoyed the experience.

“We owe many people our gratitude for their involvement in this endeavour and I thank them all once again today. I’d like to thank everyone who passed on their positive comments about the sweat lodge and the important role it will play here at the school. I find that positive statements and positive attitudes are two things that make us stronger and help our youth move forward and succeed in all they do - and I thank you for that.”

The spiritual component that the sweat lodge brings to the school can’t be overstated and it goes a long way to

helping Elder Whiskeyjack’s words and wishes for Amiskwaciy Academy’s students come true as he encourages them to make good choices and to be spiritually, physically, emotionally and mentally strong in all they say and do.

University of Alberta history professor Michael Polushin emceed the event and spoke about the Christmas season and the positive challenges that lay ahead for students once they graduate from high school.

“It is great honour to have been invited here today and to stand here and talk to you in this school, a world-class facility, a place that teaches me something new every time I come here,” said Polushin, who introduced and thanked the school’s Elders and others who came to enjoy the feast and offer their support to the students.

The university professor also spoke about his years as a student in both the Edmonton Public and Catholic school systems and lauded the work being done by Public School Trustee Ray Martin, who for the first time as trustee, was unable to participate in the Academy’s Winter Feast. He also spoke briefly about other EPSB administrators and staff in attendance, including Superintendent Darryl Robertson. He thanked a long list of supporters and community partners and spoke briefly about the important role that they play to ensure everything from student success and safety to helping soon-to-graduate students apply to post-secondary education and trades training opportunities.

“This support is very very important,” he stated, “because it is all about the students, it is all about learning, it is all about education and it is all about community.”

Schools from across the district were invited to participate in the 2016 Winter Feast and as Polushin called out their names, students clapped and cheered, each a bit longer and louder than the last. Schools attending this year’s festivities included the Argyll Centre, J. Percy Page, Eastglen, W.P.Wagner, McNally High, Mary Butterworth and Centre High Campus.

EPSB Ward C School Trustee Orville Chubb was the next person to address the gathering. He spoke about Treaty 6 Territory and noted that Edmonton was once a “traditional meeting place for the various tribes” in western Canada and the United States, “groups that

13

included the Cree, Saulteau, Blackfoot, Dene, Dakota, Métis, Sioux” and others. "I'd like to honour these tribes and all First Nations whose footsteps crossed this land over the centuries.”

Chubb acknowledged the drummers and dancers for their performances, honoured the Elders for their wisdom and work throughout the public school system and congratulated and thanked “all of you here today; your support is important and appreciated.”

Entertainment is part of every feast held at Amiskwaciy Academy throughout the school year and this year’s Christmas/Winter Feast was no exception. The Métis Child and Family Dancers strutted their stuff across the stage as they performed several up-tempo dances that had the crowd clapping along in joy. Their colourful regalia and precision dance steps made their performance extra special. The dancing quartet was joined on stage by wellknown fiddler Alfie Myers and his guitar-playing son Byron. These two musicians are always a pleasure to listen to and like every performance I’ve seen before, they were outstanding.

Elder Whiskeyjack offered a prayer before the Christmas luncheon and in doing so honoured the memory of Jerry Wood, a respected Elder and community member who passed away suddenly from a heart attack on Thursday, December 8, just one day before Amiskwaciy Academy’s Winter feast.

“I worked with Jerry for many, many years,” noted Elder Whiskeyjack. “Life is something that we take for granted every day, it is precious and we never know what Continued on page 14

14

Alberta Native News

November, 2016

NHL legend Reggie Leach visits Conklin

by Curtis Walty (December 7, 2016) – It wasn’t a typical November 29th for residents in Conklin.

After weeks of anticipation, the day finally came for students, parents, school staff, elders and community members to meet former NHL legend and Indigenous role model “The Riverton Rifle” Reggie Leach. Leach, who played 14 seasons in the NHL and helped the Philadelphia Flyers win a Stanley Cup in 1975, was invited by Conklin Community School and the Conklin Community Enhancement Society to share his story and motivate students to work towards their dream. The proud member of the Berens First Nation in Manitoba began his visit interacting with staff and students at Conklin Community School. After speaking to students about his hockey career, making good choices and the importance of listening, he talked about the level of respect students showed towards him.

“What I saw is how good the teachers were with the kids and how respectful the kids were,” said Leach. “I had a wonderful day with the kids. We had a team picture and they [kids] drew pictures of myself and sayings of what I told them about listening.

“To me I always tell them that you can’t learn if you don’t listen.”

After spending the day at the school, he joined students, parents, elders and community members for a stew and bannock dinner and a conversation. Leach talked about his day with the kids, his hockey career, personal battles with

Amiskwaciy

cont. from p 13

the next day will bring. I’d like to pause for a minute of silence to think about Jerry, what he meant to the community and the many things that he accomplished.”

After a few minutes of silence, Elder Whiskeyjack continued, noting that another person he knew also passed away recently, a person “who also worked with and helped

alcohol and people who guided him.

He the emphasized importance of getting an education and the benefits of playing a sport.

“Sport is a good thing to keep them [students] straight and out of trouble but if you don’t have a good education it’s not going to help you down the Hockey legend Reggie Leach poses with students from Conklin Alberta. line,” said Leach. “I speak about choices all the time. Kids today have to be very committed to talking about First Nations youth, education and family. Reggie was a hit with all age groups responsible for their own actions.”

Leach had a little fun near the end asking trivia from our youngest students to our community elders.

“It was an honour and a pleasure to welcome Reggie questions about his life and hockey career. Anyone who Leach to Conklin and the Conklin Community School. We answered the questions correctly received a copy of his all be watching Reggie when he plays against his son will book “The Riverton Rifle: How Hockey Shaped My Jamie in the Stadium Series Alumni game between the Life.” He stayed afterwards to sign books, take part in Philadelphia Flyers and the Pittsburgh Penguins on pictures and even let some touch his Stanley Cup ring!

February 8th.

Thank you for the wonderful visit and the Principal Cal Johnson, who coincidentally played for the great lessons Reggie!” same junior hockey team as Leach the Flin Flon Bombers, When the night was all said and done, Leach says the says it was special to see Reggie interact with his students best part about visiting communities is seeing the smiles and community members. on kids and the happiness they have.

“Reggie was a funny, friendly and genuine guest who Walty is the Communications Coordinator Curtis tended to change the subject when his NHL accolades at Northland School Division No. 61. were being discussed,” said Johnson. “He was however, many people in many ways. This year as we celebrate the Christmas season let us also think about the people in the hospitals, all of those who are lonely, those who are in jails, think about the women who are being abused, children who are in care and being passed from one family to another. With this in mind, remember that as we enjoy the luxuries of food and shelter and safety - all these things we take for granted - let us think of the less fortunate as we enjoy our feast today. During this season and into the future don’t be angry with your neighbour but instead be grateful, be kind and be understanding.”

Amiskwaciy Academy is about learning but it’s also about culture and personal identity. Principal Fred Hines puts it all into

perspective when he says: “At Amiskwaciy Academy students are at the centre of our initiatives. What we plan for, work toward and strive for is a community of forward thinkers. We are very fortunate to have several Elders involved with the school, including Elder Francis Whiskeyjack, a full-time member of Amiskwaciy Academy who offers advice, works with students and provides cultural awareness and training to both students and staff.

“Students learn about Cree culture through the Morning Song, Traditional Teachings, Sweats and through classroom enrichment. We work hard at giving our students the tools to become productive members of our society through the world of work or post-secondary education. As a community, we work to remove barriers that would impede progress for our students. We welcome you to stop in and join us for breakfast - the Morning Song gets underway every weekday morning at 9:00 a.m.”

December, 2016

Alberta Native News

15 The Sacred Rock 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.

The Sacred Rock Collected and illustrated by James Ratt; told by Jean Roberts

Long ago, there lived a widow who had two small boys. She made two small bows with arrows and taught them how to use them.

One day, she told them to go out and shoot some birds to eat. “Later, I will make you stronger bows so that you can shoot bigger game,” she told them.

She put some ready cooked meat in a bag and told them to sit on a large rock when they got hungry and wanted to eat.

One day while the boys were eating their lunch on a large rock, they heard a voice saying, “I’d like to tell you boys a story.”

They looked all around but did not see anyone so they kept on eating.

“Shall I tell you some stories?” the voice asked again. It was coming from the rock they were sitting on.

“What kind of stories do you tell?” the boys asked then. The rock said he told stories of things that happened a long time ago. He said, “If you will give me your birds, I will tell you many stories.”

The two brothers laid their ducks and geese beside the rock and sat close to it as

it told them strange stories and legends. It was almost sunset when the voice from the rock said, “You have to go home now, but come back tomorrow and I will tell you more stories.”

On their way home, the boys shot three birds each. When their mother asked why they didn’t have more, they said the ducks and geese were getting scarce. The same thing happened the next day and also the day after.

The mother knew that her children were not telling the truth. So, she went to the Chief and told him the problem.

The Chief said, “I will send two men tomorrow to follow your sons to see what they are doing with their catch.”

This was done and the two men watched the boys shoot ten birds each. The boys then laid them down beside the rock.

As the men watched, they were surprised to hear a voice coming from the rock saying, “Bring all the people from your village here tomorrow. Tell them to bring some food or a gift and I will tell them many stories.”

The Chief and all the people were astonished to hear what the braves had to tell.

The Chief said, “We will do as the rock says.”

Everyone took gifts or some food and went to the talking rock.

When the people had all made their offerings, they sat down around the stone and the voice began to speak. It told wonderful stories of beautiful lands and Continued on page 16

16

Alberta Native News

The Sacred Rock

December, 2016

cont. from p 15

strange creatures. It told of animals that could talk to one another and of people yet to come to this land.

When it was almost sundown, the rock said, “I have told you many stories and it is up to you to keep them as long as the world lasts. Tell them to your children and grandchildren but make sure they always place tobacco or a little food before the story tellers.”

The rock never spoke again, but for many years the people visited the sacred stone. Today, some old people still remember those legends and stories.

When you visit old people, you should always carry a gift. The old person will never refuse it.

Sober walk

cont. from p 8

December 2000 as Canada’s Role Model of the Year. In 2002, Marilyn Buffalo was presented with an Eagle Feather Award by the Southern Chiefs of Manitoba in recognition of her continued dedication to Canada’s First Nations Land and Treaty Rights and in 2004 was the recipient of a Golden Eagle Award, an honour bestowed upon her by the Native Women’s Association of Canada for her lifetime contributions to Canada’s Aboriginal Women.

Noting that Indigenous Canadians are the fastest growing population in Canada with a high percentage of young adults out of work and looking for answers, Buffalo encouraged them to pursue the help they needed to move ahead into the future.

“If you need help, ask for it; there’s nothing wrong about asking for help when you have an illness or something is bothering you,” she assured. “There are too many suicides in our community; if each one of us went out and helped ten people and they in turn did the same, imagine what we

could accomplish. The Alberta government, for too long, has not been listening to us; now that may sound political but the fact is that we have the largest number of children in care in the province.”

Though only 10 percent of Alberta’s children come from an Indigenous background they make up 70 percent of children in care, an appalling statistic that continues to escalate despite the overwhelming evidence that the province’s so-called child welfare system is poorly managed, under-staffed and lacks the equal balance of Indigenous employees need to ensure some semblance of success.

“We also have the highest number of homeless people in this province, in fact in this country,” noted Buffalo, “and I call on the Alberta Government to please put money aside for our children. More and more Aboriginal people are moving into the cities and we do not have the services we need. With all the cutbacks in health, education and child welfare we have to step up and help our own people now. It is no longer acceptable to sit back and do nothing.

Each person here is a leader and you need to go home to

your families, talk to them and together help make a difference in the lives of those who need us today. Keep fit, stay healthy - if you want to be a leader today you need a clean spirit and a clean body and you will be unstoppable. Go back to school, learn a trade, utilize your skills and plan your future - be unstoppable.”

Poundmaker’s Lodge, renowned world-wide for its innovative leadership and proven addictions treatment programs, has a long and successful history that began on April 4, 1973. The first signatories to the society’s bylaws, Wilton Littlechild, Christine Daniels (deceased), Madeline Stout, Kathleen Anderson, and Louis Halfe (deceased) gathered in Edmonton to embark on a venture that would inevitably fulfill the objectives they had discussed when they first decided to act on their vision. They knew full well that an array of social problems, most a result of residential school abuse and continued marginalization by both government and society, were taking their toll on the Aboriginal population, particularly as far as addictions to drugs and alcohol were concerned. A year after the society was formed the group left their small Edmonton facility and moved north to what is now Poundmaker's Lodge Treatment Centre at 25108 Poundmaker Road, Sturgeon County.

December, 2016

Alberta Native News

17

A Christmas wish for you

by Xavier Kataquapit Christmas is right around the corner and I am being reminded of that fact every time I venture out to go shopping. The shops in all the local northern Ontario communities I call home like Kirkland Lake, Iroquois Falls, Timmins, Cochrane, North Bay and Sudbury have been promoting Christmas with posters, advertising in the media and music through sound systems in bigger stores.

Don't get me wrong as there are lots of things I like about Christmas but the commercial part of it has really taken over to such a degree that it is difficult for me to still find the heart in this celebration.

I don't recall a huge celebration around Christmas when I was a boy back home in Attawapiskat. We went through the motions because we were more or less convinced it was the normal thing to do with a tree to decorate and giving gifts but really I never did get very excited by it all.

Mostly, Christmas seemed like it ended up as a time of year when there was a lot of drinking and tragedy.

Still, for children I believe that Christmas with all of the myths and legends is generally a good thing. Childrens' minds are full of images of Santa, reindeer pulling Santa's sleigh, wonderful gifts and lots of treats to eat. For children when this day is done right it is very good but when it takes a turn for a lot of drinking and drugs in the home, the memories of childhood become very dark and sad.

Christmas and Santa Claus are very new concepts for my people the Cree of James Bay. We have only known the Christian religions and the celebrations that come with them for a couple of hundred years or so. Before that we lived a life that was all about the land, Mother Nature, the spirits of the land, water and air and of course the creatures. European religions and celebrations and holidays like Christmas were not known by my people at all. In contrast Christians had been following their religions for a couple of thousand years and Christmas and Santa had histories that connected back many hundreds of years.

The funny thing is that the Santa that we know today has origins that would surprise most of us. The original Santa Claus can be traced back to Saint Nicholas who was a Christian bishop in the third century in Turkey. He would have been darker skinned and probably skinny. It is interesting to note that the name Santa Clause is actually a contraction that was made over the years of Saint Nicholas. His day was originally celebrated on December 6 to mark the day he died in the mid third century and in honour of him for the kindness and good deeds he did for children. In his lifetime, he survived being imprisoned and persecuted by the Romans and became a legend for doing that. Later he was associated with Christmas Eve. People who were Christians around the world started celebrating his day and his legend in reference to Kris Kringle, La Befana, Yule Tomten, and Christkindli. Santa made his debut in North America in 1809 when Washington Irving wrote “A History of New York,” that included Saint Nicholas, a jolly, fat fellow smoking a Dutch pipe, who flew over the rooftops in a wagon and

presents dropped down the chimneys. A minister by the name of Clement Clarke Moore in 1822 wrote a Christmas poem for his daughters titled, “An Account of a Visit from St. Nicholas," later more popularly known as ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas." A lot of the images that we now associate with Santa came out of this which poem became very popular.

A cartoonist named Thomas Nast used Moore's poem later to draw images of Santa which appeared in Harper's Weekly and that image was more like the Santa we know today as chubby, with a big white beard and carrying a bag full of toys. Nast was German and called his character Santa Claus which caught on with Americans.

Santa, who was now associated with Christmas Eve had been used to advertise gift buying and giving from the 1800s. The colourful Santa that we know today was partly created by Coca Cola in a 1930s advertising campaign done by artist Haddon Sundblom which presented St Nick in the company’s classic red.

So even the Santa Claus that everybody knows started out being very different in colour, race and country origin.

We have only really known Santa in the image that is very familiar and popular for less than one hundred years. Most remote First Nation children have known him for much less time.

My wish is that all those children out there get to experience the joy and love of functional and caring families this Christmas and holiday season. I worry that far too many of them will have to deal with terrorizing situations because those family

members that are supposed to be caring for them are drunk or on drugs. So, if you think that just maybe you might have a problem with addictions and that Christmas is going to be hell for your kids this could be the perfect time to pick up the phone and call your local Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous chapter in your town or city to get help. This could be the year you give the very best Christmas present ever to your children.

For more columns by Xavier Kataquapit visit www.underthenorthernsky.com

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Alberta Native News

December, 2016

Ottawa approves two pipeline projects and rejects one

by John Copley On November 29, 2016, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau took the bull by the horns and made a definitive decision on pipeline development; he approved two proposed pipeline projects and threw a third into the garbage can.

The federal government did indeed, “send a clear message” to Canadians that through the Liberal “government’s extensive consultations with Canadians: the economy and the environment go hand in hand. That is why we are pricing carbon pollution, making the most significant investment ever to protect Canada’s oceans and coastlines, instituting world-leading safety standards for pipelines by passing the Pipeline Safety Act, and have signed the Vancouver Declaration with the provinces and territories on clean growth and climate change. Our commitments to renewable energy, investments in clean energy and protecting our coasts and oceans will grow our economy while protecting the environment Canadians cherish.”

When the long-awaited and heavily debated announcement by Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources, Jim Carr, and Canada’s Minister of Transport, Marc Garneau, was delivered it came with a commitment that it will “create more good, middle-class jobs while protecting environmentally-sensitive areas.”

Most significantly, and with a tremendous sigh of relief that could be heard from coast-to-coast, particularly in British Columbia, the Northern Gateway pipeline has been rejected. In its statement, the government said that it “has directed the National Energy Board (NEB) to dismiss Enbridge’s Northern Gateway Pipelines Project application,” saying that the “project is not in the public interest, given that it would result in crude oil tankers transiting through the sensitive ecosystem of the Douglas Channel, which is part of the Great Bear Rainforest.”

Trudeau also announced “a moratorium on crude and persistent oil tankers along British Columbia’s north coast.

This area spans the Alaska–B.C. border down to the point on B.C.’s mainland adjacent to the northern tip of Vancouver Island, and includes Haida Gwaii.”

The decision was made following consultations with stakeholders, including Indigenous groups and communities. The feds will introduce legislation to implement the moratorium by the spring of 2017.

Two pipeline projects were approved and there are a number of important conditions attached to those approvals.

Kinder Morgan’s Trans Mountain Expansion Project is getting the go-ahead but the deal is subject to 157 binding conditions that will address potential Indigenous, socio-economic and environmental impacts, including project engineering, safety and emergency preparedness.

“This $6.8-billion project,” noted the announcement, “will create 15,000 new jobs during construction by twinning the existing Trans Mountain pipeline system between Edmonton, AB, and Burnaby, BC. It will also provide access to global markets and generate significant direct economic benefits, including $4.5 billion in federal and provincial government revenues.”

Ottawa has also approved Enbridge’s Line 3 Replacement Project, this one subject to 37 binding conditions that will also address potential Indigenous, socio-economic and environmental impacts.

“This,” noted the announcement, “will ensure that the pipeline and facilities are built and operated in a manner that is safe for Canadians and the environment. This $4.8billion project will replace 1,067 kms of existing pipeline from Hardisty, AB, to Gretna, MB, to enhance its safety and integrity. The project will generate significant economic benefits, including $514.7 million in federal and provincial government revenues and 7,000 new jobs during construction. It also provides a vital link to the North American refinery market for Canadian oil.”

These decisions come with a commitment that Ottawa will work in partnership with

Indigenous communities.

“To address specific interests identified by Indigenous groups and to build on existing partnerships” the Government announced that it will “co-develop advisory and monitoring committees with Indigenous communities to provide ongoing environmental monitoring for each of the two projects, and will also establish an Economic Pathways Partnership for each pipeline that will make it easier for Indigenous groups to access existing federal programs that help them participate in and benefit economically from this project.

Kinder Morgan’s Trans Mountain pipeline has met with impassioned opposition by many First Nations leaders and environmental groups but as Alberta Chief Jim Boucher recently told the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), his Fort McKay First Nation “is pro-oilsands; if it weren’t for the oil my people would be in poverty right now.” He said that his community (and others like his) have seen improved finances from involvement and partnerships with the oil and gas sector, adding that environmentalists Continued on page 19

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December, 2016

Pipeline

Alberta Native News cont. from p 18

are the ones to blame for widespread poverty across Canada’s north.

“Please don't buy into the environmentalist argument," he urged. “They're the ones who, at the end of the day, were successful in creating poverty in northern Canada, right across the board. That's why we see all the communities impoverished.” He also reminded his fellow chiefs that it was environment groups and animal rights activists who lobbied the European Union to ban fur imports. Ending oil field development, he noted would put his community back on the welfare rolls, “a place where we really don't want to be.”

Vice-chair of the Indian Resource Council, Dean Manywounds said that Canada’s chiefs prefer to be autonomous and economically self-sufficient.

"The resources are all around us, and we do have to participate," he said. "We have to find a way to build a successful future for our people and our kids."

Major media pointed out recently that pro-pipeline chiefs have been “reluctant to talk” about the government’s recent pipeline approvals, something National Chief Perry Bellegarde said was due to their fear of being “stigmatized.”

“There’s a stigma now attached to supporting economic development,” he said in an interview with the CBC. “There's a stigma that somehow you're not a First Nations person if you support a pipeline.”

Indeed there are many Canadians, including a number of First Nation chiefs, who disagree with Trudeau’s decision, but that disagreement, assured Quebec antipipeline proponent, Serge Simon, Grand Chief of Quebec’s Kanesatake isn’t “going to divide Chief Boucher and myself. I just don't agree with expansion of the tarsands. I'll tell you, eventually Chief Boucher and his

Fatherhood

cont. from p 11

easy when he was the only Indigenous student in the room: “When I was in Red Deer, I was the only Indigenous person in every class I went to. I was always looked at as the expert. The first thing I would say in class was, ‘I’m not the expert here. I’m learning as well.’ But you get pigeonholed into that role.”

But in the Faculty of Native Studies, he wasn’t alone.

Not only could he study Cree and learn the history of his home community and the larger histories of Indigenous people, but he could also build a foundation in an Indigenous space on campus. That experience was

people are going to need friends when this finally crashes (and) we would welcome them with open arms in Mohawk territory, if they want to invest in the East and diversify their investments.”

In Western Canada’s Coast Salish Territory there’s mixed reaction to Prime Minister Trudeau’s announcement but in a recent press statement the First Nations Summit (FNS) said it is “applauding the decision by the federal government to once and for all reject the Northern Gateway pipeline project and to establish a moratorium on crude and oil tankers along British Columbia’s north coast.

“The FNS has long opposed the Northern Gateway Pipeline proposal due to the vast potential for serious negative environmental and cultural impacts from carrying crude oil and toxic condensate through the territories of numerous First Nations in northern BC, as well as through the headwaters of the Skeena, Fraser and Mackenzie River systems and associated watersheds. Clearly, the potential for environmental disaster far outweighed the risk.

“The failed Northern Gateway project should go down in the history books as a clear example of how not to do business in BC. The project proponents paid the ultimate price for failing to properly recognize BC First Nations’ constitutionally protected Title and Rights and failed miserably in the consultation process.

“While we commend the federal government decision to cancel the Northern Gateway pipeline project and institute a north coast tanker ban, it is bittersweet due to the decision to support the twinning of the Kinder Morgan Trans Mountain pipeline.

“It is critical to note that the necessary consultation standard for any development project in BC remains as something he brought forward as the student member on the steering committee for the Building Reconciliation Forum held at the U of A in September 2016.

“When you go to an institution like this, or across Canada, one thing you rarely see is Indigenous faculty, Indigenous support services, Indigenous administration.

We’re trying to get that representation out there so that other Indigenous people know that this can be a safe place for them. That’s why I think Native Studies is so great.

This is a safe space for Indigenous people.”

To help build that same kind of space across campus, Bruno is now working with other graduate students to form an Indigenous graduate students’ association. With

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outlined in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, officially endorsed by Canada in May of this year, to seek the free, prior and informed consent of each and every First Nation whose Aboriginal Title and Rights will be impacted. The FNS will stand in support of any First Nation that feels its inherent title and rights have been ignored for the sake of pushing through natural resource development projects in BC.” only a hundred or so Indigenous grad students on campus, he hopes that network will provide a place for students to come together to support each other, just as Bruno found support as an undergrad.

Bruno’s sister is now a student at the U of A as well.

After seeing his success, she’s decided to return to school too so she can build a better life for her own children as well—something that makes him quietly proud.

“It wasn’t my goal to be a role model for everybody, but it feels like other people see me do it, so they think, well, I can do it too.”

This article was originally published at ualberta.ca.

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Alberta Native News

December, 2016