Alberta Native News - Digital Edition - December, 2017

Volume 34 Number 12 December, 2017

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Alberta Native News

December, 2017

Climate change issues need human intervention

By John Copley Last month, Treaty 8 First Nations of Alberta joined with Treaty 6 and 7 First Nations to hold a symposium hosted by Indigenous Climate Action: An Indigenous led climate change initiative. The November symposium followed an event held in May 2017 when MacEwan University and the Solar Energy Society of Alberta (SESA) played host to a public seminar focused on First Nations Solar, an energy source that is creating attention, gaining momentum and changing the habits of Canadians from coast to coast. Though not a direct follow-up to the May gathering, the latest symposium, which was held at the River Cree Resort, remained focused on what First Nations in the province can do to ensure that their futures remain bright, strong, well-lit and warm.

Symposium emcee Tanya Kappo spoke briefly about the day’s events and topics and introduced the first speaker, Alberta Treaty 8 First Nations Chief Operating Officer, Joseph (Joe) Jobin.

In a brief welcoming, Jobin noted that the plan to host the climate change symposium was hatched last year, soon after the Chiefs of Treaties 6, 7, and 8 met with Alberta government Ministers Richard Feehan (Indigenous Relations) and Shannon Phillips (Environment) on climate change issues and concerns. Ms. Phillips is also the Minister Responsible for the Climate Change Office.

“Alberta wanted to hear what we thought about climate change, what First Nations priorities are and what role the Chiefs see themselves playing. They told ministers that they do want to participate, that they are very concerned about climate change but (that until now) they hadn’t yet been presented with a path for that participation.”

Being of like-mind, noted Jobin, the Chiefs began to speak together about the reality of what lies ahead if climate change continues or worsens. He also acknowledged the ongoing work of Treaty 8 staff who went to conferences and seminars and made contact with Chiefs and communities throughout Treaties 6, 7 and 8.

“That’s what this meeting is all about,” explained Jobin. “It begins with our commonalties, what we can do together, what we can do as Louis Bull Councilor individuals. We looked for Desmond Bull allies; today we have leadership involved, we have community technicians, activists, and so far, more than 200 people in Treaties 6-7-8 communities have registered. There are many different ways we can work together to address climate change strategies within a treaty perspective. We need to get together on this one; we need to work together. Climate change is something that is going to affect us all.”

After the symposium, additional meetings were held with First Nations throughout the province and reports are being written based on the studies and findings that came out of those meetings.

Treaty 8 Deputy Grand Chief Isaac Laboucan-Avirom is a member of the Woodland Cree First Nation. When he took to the podium he firmly noted: “Climate change is here; it’s hard to deny it.”

He told the gathering that during a recent meeting in Ottawa with several other First Nation Chiefs, Inuit and Métis leaders, there was a push to limit the climate rise to no more than two degrees.

“The Inuit,” he said, were taken aback by that figure because, noted the Chief, “they said the temperature had already risen by more than 14 degrees over the past 10 years.”

He also spoke about “food shortages, overheating, flooding, and the worsening fire situations - like the ones in B.C. this past year. Climate change and the changing environment is something we are seeing with our own eyes. Hunting is also being affected; 20 years ago, we could go out and find a moose in a few hours,

Symposium MC Tanya Kappo

Treaty 8 COO Joseph Jobin

Deputy Grand Chief Isaac Laboucan-Avirom

SESA Exec. Director Rob Harlan

maybe a day or two but now you can look for two weeks.

Our Elders have to travel further and further, even hundreds of miles to find a better hunting ground. These areas have sustained us for hundreds of years.”

Finding solutions, he noted, may only come if each person who lives on this earth is willing to do his and her part to ensure the longevity of the planet. He talked about the various forms of pollution and noted that even the vehicles we drive, the lights we burn and the heat and water we both use and waste are also responsible for rising temperatures and a decaying layer of ozone.

“Even if we can use more efficient light bulbs, maybe drive an electric car in the cities and smaller engined Continued on page 17

December, 2017

Alberta Native News

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Maskwacis First Nations sign education agreement

By Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye (Ponoka News) - A significant change has occurred in Maskwacis that sees its education changed for the better.

On Nov. 29, the chiefs of the four nations in Maskwacis signed an historic agreement that amalgamates education under one authority. For some elders, this is a dream come true since the 1970s and for school administrators it bridges the funding gap for First Nations students and sets them up for success.

Called the Maskwacis Education School Commission (MESC), all students in Maskwacis will be taught under this new program and funding will come from one roof.

For acting superintendent Brian Wildcat, the hard work of the past eight years ensures students not only get funding on an equal level to non-Indigenous students but also ensures that Cree culture is infused in the curriculum.

As many band members as possible were consulted within Maskwacis to ensure Treaty rights were not missed out, said Wildcat. On top of that a new funding program with the federal government is expected to be reached soon.

“Really the key of this and purpose of this was for us to

find a way to improve educational results,” said Wildcat.

“And achievement of students in Maskwacis.”

He feels putting resources together ensures a better process for students and is expected to improve exam and graduation results.

“Through the The four chiefs of Maskwacis sign an agreement that will amalgamate education consultation with the elders under one school authority.

(Photo and article courtesy of Ponoka News). in the community it’s been made very clear to us that since the late 1980s. the system we’re creating is based on Cree culture and Makinaw also looks forward to seeing what Cree language,” said Wildcat, adding that is part of the educators will bring to the table. “We’re able to develop a agreement with the federal government.

Cree-based education system and we have the capacity There are four clear principles included in the here in Maskwacis.” agreement: positive relationships and connectivity, MESC vice-chairperson Mario Swampy, also a preserving and encouraging the Cree language, building councilor with the Samson Cree Nation, is excited with the system based on the Cree way of living, this change. He feels there’s lots of work ahead for and First Nations and Indigenous thought Maskwacis but is pleased with this first step. throughout the system.

“We’re truly looking at an opportunity to say, ‘Hey, Wildcat is excited to see balanced these are my Treaty partners and these are some of the funding coming to MESC. “The funding collaborative efforts that we’re embarking on that is going right now is annual, one year at a time, and to see both sides succeed,’” said Swampy.

30/35 per cent of our funding is proposal He suggests the collaboration between Maskwacis and driven. It’s not guaranteed like the the federal government on MESC is a positive dialogue province.” between two nations.

This funding stretches over seven years, The four chiefs, Samson Cree Chief Vernon which is the term of the agreement. Wildcat Saddleback, Montana Cree acting-Chief Brad Rabbit, adds that it provides compensatory funding Louis Bull Cree Chief Irvin Bull and Ermineskin Cree to cover the gap in past funding models.

Chief Craig Makinaw were on hand to sign.

MESC board chairperson Nina Makinaw, There were two documents to sign: the Maskwacis Cree also a councilor with the Ermineskin Cree declaration on education and the delegation agreement.

Nation, is excited for what this change will The latter is where each Maskwacis nation confirms bring to Maskwacis students. She believes MESC as the education authority. the funding hadn’t seen significant change

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Alberta Native News

December, 2017

Amiskwaciy winter feast attracted over 400 guests

By John Copley Amiskwaciy Academy’s 2017 Winter Feast took a different twist this year when instead of Principal Fred Hines, two of the school’s students, Shaunteya Eaglechild (Grade 10) and Theo Auigbelle (Grade 11) made their way to the podium as co-emcees who led the gathering in prayer.

In her opening comments Eaglechild acknowledged that “we are on Treaty 6 territory, a traditional meeting ground, gathering place and travelling route of the Cree, Blackfoot, Saulteaux, Métis, Dene and Nakota Sioux. We acknowledge all of the many First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples whose footsteps have marked these lands for centuries.”

She delivered the morning prayer in her native Blackfoot language before conceding the podium to Amiskwaciy Elder Francis Whiskeyjack, who smiled and said, “It is certainly a nice thing to hear our young people speaking their own languages.”

Elder Whiskeyjack, social teacher Terris Mah, Elder Jeanette Lean and about 15 students accompanied the emcees on stage before beating their hand-held drums and singing in harmony to the delight of the 400-plus people who came to celebrate culture, tradition, family and the upcoming holiday season. A rousing round of applause echoed throughout the building when the group had finished its performance.

Eaglechild and Auigbelle took turns introducing the numerous special guests who came to participate in the annual event. These included school Elders, community partners, EPSB administrators, including Superintendent Darrell Robertson, trustees and staff, the Friedel family, Oiler Entertainment Group members Kevin Lowe and Tim Shipton and Alberta Education Minister, the Honourable David Eggen. Community partners joining the celebration included representatives from Métis Child and Family Services, Edmonton City Police Services, RCMP, Alberta Aboriginal Relations, MacEwan University, University of Alberta, Nova Hotels, Stantech,

Edmonton Food Bank, Telus World of Science and others.

The academy presented an interesting and memoryfilled slideshow that showcased the school and many of its achievers, role models and differencemakers and various events that have been shared and experienced there. EPSB Board Chair Michelle Draper was invited to the podium as the 2017 Winter Feast’s first speaker.

“It’s really wonderful to see the community come together to celebrate the season and their cultural identities,” she began. “It Amiskwaciy reflects Academy’s ongoing commitment to connect students with Aboriginal cultural teachings.

I Students Theo Auigbelle and Shaunteya Eaglechild were guest emcees at the understand that this is an Winter Feast. Bottom: Elder Francis Whiskeyjack addressed the large gathering important time of the year he and the Amiskwaciy Singers performed a few songs. before to get together, to share stories and create memories, something that the slideshow reflected so educational experience at school possible. It is because of nicely. In addition to hearing the stories of times passed, I the dedication of these people that Amiskwaciy Academy hope that today we will be creating memories that will is able to nurture not only your academic success but also become the stories of tomorrow. I also think about what your spiritual and emotional well-being.”

Trustee Shelagh Dunn (Ward B), said she was your future stories might say and that you are also able to “honoured to be here at Amiskwaciy Academy,” noting, thank those who have supported you throughout the years. “this is my first winter feast and I am so happy to be here; The support you receive from your teachers, your Elders, your family and community makes your unique Continued on page 13

December, 2017

Alberta Native News

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Fort McKay and Mikisew Cree Nations complete oilsands deal with Suncor CALGARY, ALBERTA – Last month, Fort McKay First Nation (FMFN) and Mikisew Cree First Nation (MCFN) completed the acquisition of 49 percent partnership in Suncor's East Tank Farm Development for total proceeds of $503 million.

The two First Nations independently financed the acquisition through the issuance of $545 million, 4.136 per cent senior secured notes due December 31, 2041. The offering was structured and marketed by RBC Capital Markets.

"The deal represents the largest business investment to date by a First Nation entity in Canada, and not only demonstrates the great potential for partnerships between First Nations and industry but serves as a model for how First Nations can achieve greater self-determination through financial independence," said Jim Boucher, Chief of FMFN. "This deal is built on a foundation of trust and collaboration between Fort McKay and Suncor; this is an example of how First Nations and natural resource development companies can find ways to support each other for the mutual long-term benefits."

"We are ecstatic to see this partnership come to reality.

It's with great pride that we are part of this monumental deal. It has allowed us to collaborate in a true partnership and demonstrates the possibilities of how future successful business models between First Nations and industry across this country can be achieved," said Archie Waquan, Chief of MCFN. "The economic benefits generated from this deal will help our Nation build capacity within our businesses, develop infrastructure in our community, fund social economic programs, and provide us with the means to help pay for education and training for our youth. This will be felt in our community for generations to come."

The East Tank Farm Development is a bitumen and

diluent storage, blending and cooling facility located approximately 30 kilometers north of Fort McMurray, Alberta. It is Fort McKay First Nation Chief Jim Boucher and Mikisew Cree Nation Chief Archie primarily dedicated to Waquan shake hands while Mark Little, Suncor's president of upstream operation servicing bitumen looks on. production from the Fort Hills oil sands mining energy sector." project. Revenue from long-term terminal services "We like the East Tank Farm transaction because of its agreements with the Fort Hills oil sands partners underpins strong credit and economic fundamentals coupled with the the financing. Suncor is the operator of the East Tank Farm fact that this is a groundbreaking economic transaction Development. between the First Nations and the oil sands industry, in "Today we've completed an historic deal for energy particular with Suncor. The credit fundamentals of the development in Canada. This unique partnership has been transaction are supported by contracted cash flows that are part of a journey that demonstrates how innovative underpinned by take or pay contracts with strong thinking and collaborative spirit can result in a mutually- counterparties. These take or pay contracts eliminate beneficial opportunity and it has changed the way Suncor commodity price risk, volume risk and operations and thinks about how our Aboriginal neighbours may maintenance cost risk," said John Braive, vice-chairman, participate in energy development," said Mark Little, CIBC Asset Management and ETF Limited Partnership president, Upstream, Suncor. "Through this partnership, bond holder. we've learned a lot about working together to create Fort McKay First Nation (FMFN) is composed of over something significant and I look forward to continuing to 800 band members with approximately 400 members work together on this joint investment with Fort McKay residing in the hamlet of Fort McKay-a community First Nation and Mikisew Cree First Nation for many located approximately 65 km north of Fort McMurray. years to come."

Mikisew Cree First Nation (MCFN) signed Treaty 8 in "As the North American leader in capital raising and 1899. The Mikisew Cree have resided in Northeastern advisory services for energy infrastructure projects, RBC Alberta since time immemorial. The traditional lands of Capital Markets is proud to serve as sole agent for this the MCFN range over much of the area where the groundbreaking financing transaction," said Mark Saar, Athabasca Oil Sands deposits have been found. MCFN North American Head of Project Finance, RBC. "Suncor's shares this territory with four other First Nations that make industry partnership with the Fort McKay First Nation and up the Athabasca Tribal Council. At the present time most Mikisew Cree First Nation is a testament to the members reside in Fort McMurray, Edmonton, Fort collaboration and success that is possible in Canada's Smith, NWT and Fort Chipewyan.

Camp-out turns teens into digital knowledge-keepers

By Bev Betkowski (Folio) - For three busy days last summer, teens from Piikani Nation in southern Alberta toted tripods, video cameras, laptops and microphones around their ancestral lands, learning about their Blackfoot culture and along the way, picking up high-tech skills.

Blending the old with the new, they got their first experience at becoming the community’s future knowledge-keepers, using technology to record and preserve precious cultural traditions.

Tailyn Potts, 15, filmed “the land, my peers, the mountains, the water,” and liked sleeping in a tipi as her ancestors did, as well as the idea of recording her community’s traditions. “We got to catch the momentt on

camera so we can look back at it.”

The experience was at the heart of a digital literacy camp held on the banks of the Oldman River. The pilot project, a partnership of the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Extension, the Peigan Board of Education’s Piikani Youth Empowerment Strategies Program and Piikani Nation Secondary School, is significant to both the future and the past, said Blackfoot elder Herman Many Guns.

“The camp we had was very beneficial for people,” said Many Guns. “It’s talking about our culture in combination with technology; with technology the younger

people are focused around the new stuff, things that are happening today, so by combining both, it’s making it more interesting for the students and the younger generation, but also it’s going to start schooling the younger people in our communities to look forward to these kinds of programs in the future.”

The outdoor workshop, called ii na kaa sii na ku pi tsi nii kii in Blackfoot, was the first of what U of A researcher Rob McMahon hopes will be a series of summer camps that give Indigenous youths a way to preserve their culture and learn digital literacy in meaningful ways.

“The community is concerned that a lot of their culture and traditions are in danger of being lost. The Elders were very much in support of digitizing it to make sure it’s there for future generations,” he said. “At the same time, there are many ways to learn about digital technology that come Continued on page 12

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Alberta Native News

December, 2017

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60s scoop victims have a new voice in Alberta

By John Copley Adam North Peigan is president of the 60s Scoop been thrust into. I was a victim of the 60s Scoop and here Indigenous Society of Alberta. Born in 1964, he was just it was nearly 20 years later and my kids were suffering the an infant when he was removed from his ancestral home same fate as I had. I made a decision that I was going to on southern Alberta’s Piikani First Nation. As president of do something about it.” this quickly growing society he’s been working with the He went to a treatment centre, found sobriety and started Alberta government and is hopeful that positive news is to turn his life around. just a few months away. The organization is seeking an “It took some time, about a year and a half working with apology and a path toward reconciliation. The Society is the family court system, but eventually I was able to get currently meeting with and talking to survivors of the 60s sole custody of my two kids,” he said. “I had to sever the Scoop era and getting their stories and input, to ensure that marriage because my wife at that time decided that she progress can be made as quickly as possible. wasn’t ready to make those North Peigan has made a great deal of progress in the changes in her life.” last two years, working in earnest to ensure that Alberta’s He became a single 60s Scoop survivors are able to heal and move forward. father raising two little girls It’s in part a personal journey for him because he was also by himself and away from one of many who were victimized as a result of the 60s his community.

Scoop travesty.

“It was right about this “I was just an infant when I was taken,” he said, time,” he remembers, “that “and over the years I was placed in numerous then National Chief Phil non-Indigenous foster homes and children’s Fontaine started to talk about shelters and remained in them until I was 17 residential schools and brought years old. The experiences I had caused a lot the subject to light across the of suffering. I lost everything - my family, country and made it clear that that era my language, my culture, my traditions of our history had created serious and my community, but I think the damage to Indigenous people. He called thing that affected me most was the for recognition by the government and he abandonment. When I did go called for change. From the time he began home for the first time I was 17 talking about it, to the time Harper years old. I’d already met my apologized and the figures for common mother and an aunt and uncle experience payments were discussed for so I stayed.” survivors, to the appointment of the Truth and What happened next, he Reconciliation Commissioners and to the explained, was unexpected but tabling of their final report, about 15 to 20 years as he got older and looked had passed by.” back he came to understand North Peigan did not attend residential school but his the harsh realities of what happens when you remove parents did. children from their homes.

“I was just a product of the environment created by the “I suffered a severe case of culture shock,” he said. “It schools. The Indian Act underwent some changes in the was like I was parachuted into a war zone. I was brought early 1950s and the federal government unloaded a lot of up in a totally different culture and wasn’t expecting what their responsibilities on the provinces. That responsibility I found when I finally was able to go home. I saw poverty, allowed the provinces to come into our communities and unemployment, family violence, alcoholism and drug forcibly remove our young kids and put them in nonabuse and homelessness. I had a difficult time and a Indigenous foster homes - this was an era that became serious case of feeling that I didn’t belong. I started known as the 60s Scoop. It was a continuation of the drinking and quickly became very attached to alcohol; it assimilation process all over again or as we recognize it consumed my life for the next 15 years.” today, cultural genocide.”

His alcohol abuse led him to the streets of Vancouver Adam North Peigan fell into that slot as a child; he where he wound up on East Hastings, the poorest and became a victim of the 60s Scoop and thus began his long roughest community in British Columbia’s largest city. journey through the foster care system.

“In my early 30’s I also became a father and because of “I was happy when the federal government finally my heavy drinking, child welfare came along and took my recognized or admitted the serious effects of the residential two daughters away and they both ended up in non- schools and agreed to compensate victims but at the same Aboriginal foster homes.” time I wondered: ‘what about me and the thousands of It was the vicious cycle happening all over again. others who were caught up in the province’s 60s Scoop “I think that’s when I hit rock bottom,” he continued. “I initiative?' We also need some kind of reconciliation, some knew that I did not want to subject my kids to the life I’d kind of acknowledgement as well. I always knew that I wanted to do something, get involved in some way to Continued on page 11

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December, 2017

Alberta Native News

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Creating Hope Society concludes Five Days of Reconciliation

By John Copley On December 9, Edmonton-based, Creating Hope Society of Alberta (CHS), concluded the organization’s Five Days of Reconciliation initiative by hosting the fifth and final event with a bannock-making contest and a free traditional beef stew and bannock dinner. CHS also invited two face painters and a balloonist, each of whom captured the attention of all the youngsters in attendance.

There were more than 24 entries in the bannock-making contest, a friendly competition to see which of the competing cooks made the best fried and/or baked bannock, the only two categories that qualified for prize money. When the final bell rang and the last piece of bannock had been tasted, the prize winners, who took home $200 for first place, $100 for second place and $50 for third, were named.

The baked bannock category winners (first-third) were Colleen Cardinal, Crystal Auger and Jessica Grey. The fried bannock category winner was Rachel Donovan, with Darlene Papastesis and Karelle Meetoos placing second and third respectively.

“The feedback we received from those who attended was very positive and we’ve had many requests to hold these types of functions more often,” noted CHS Executive Director Bernadette Iahtail the day after the event took place. “The Elders were very happy to see so many people from different countries come join us; that’s what reconciliation is all about - mixing and mingling and getting to know one another in an atmosphere of friendship and sharing.”

The Five Days of Reconciliation is just one of many initiatives that CHS hosted during 2017 and it was also one of the most successful.

“The purpose of this particular project,” explained Iahtail, “was to engage in a conversation with all Canadians about what happened in the residential schools and include the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s

94 Calls to Action. We are in full agreement with the view that TRC’s reconciliation between diverse people requires ongoing cultivation of mutual respect and understanding as well as Bannock-making contest winners pose with the judges - Indigenous Relations opportunities for us to work Minister Richard Feehan, Louis Cardinal and Allan Emond, at the Creating Hope together, learn together and Reconciliation Event held earlier this month. play together in friendship and fathers. This event, noted Iahtail, “included and goodwill.”

Iahtail said the goal, which proved to be very successful conversations about how we can provide support for was to “bring Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples families who are struggling with the ongoing effects and together in ways that would raise awareness of historical issues as a result of the residential school era.”

Other topics included the 60s Scoop and children still and current issues surrounding reconciliation. The being apprehended by the current, and failing child initiative was designed to raise awareness and promote a welfare system. deeper understanding and a greater appreciation for the third event dealt with the topic: Youth and The lives of Indigenous peoples in Canada and I think we got Reconciliation.

The topic, meant for both Indigenous and that message out.” non-Indigenous youth asked them to complete fiveTo complete the project, CHS organized five different documentaries on the subject: What does minute events, each based on the teachings of the Medicine reconciliation mean to me?

Wheel, teachings that include children, youth, adults, The fourth event was held on November 18, to Elders and the community as a whole.

International Children’s day. “The theme commemorate The events included positive and meaningful activities dealt with Children and Reconciliation,” explained Iahtail. such as opening prayers, smudging ceremonies, honour “As a society we joined together with the community and songs, a mini-round dance, viewing of a reconciliation celebrated the lives of both Indigenous and nondocumentary, entertainment, celebrations of Indigenous Indigenous children.” culture, tradition and lifestyle, as well as an opportunity to The fifth and final event, which took place on December participate in a contest about the meaning of 'recon9, included BannockFest and was an opportunity for cooks ciliation.' A number of keynote speakers also participated. to compete in the cash prize contest.The afternoon got off The first of the five events took place on May 18. to a great start as contestants lined up at the tables, Children had the opportunity to hear the stories of the displaying their various styles of bannock while waiting Elders who shared their knowledge and life’s experiences. for the judges to come and taste their entries.

The second event, on September 15, was primarily for adults and embraced discussions that could help mothers Continued on page 16

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Alberta Native News

December, 2017

Art project promotes reconciliation

By John Copley Edmonton’s St. Rose Junior High School recently completed an important undertaking to enhance student understanding about Indigenous culture and to act as a catalyst in the school’s response to the call for reconciliation. That final phase included the blessing and smudging of five newly created mosaic designs that now rest on the walls of the school’s main staircase. Unnamed, the five pieces are each symbolic of Indigenous culture and tradition. Each viewer of the art will have his or her own impression or understanding of what each piece represents, but the symbols themselves include an abundance of colour and are shaped to resemble a dreamcatcher, birds, turtles, moose and the Medicine Wheel.

Before the ceremony got underway St. Rose Principal, Barton Leibel addressed the gathering.

“We acknowledge that we are on the traditional lands of Treaty 6 and the home of the Métis Nation of Alberta’s Regional Zone 4. We also acknowledged the Inuit and all other diverse Indigenous peoples whose ancestors marked

this territory for centuries,” stated Principal Leibel, who met with visitors shortly before the ceremony began.

“We at Edmonton Catholic Schools commit to restoring and honouring the Truth and Reconciliation’s Calls to Action. We strongly believe that truth must be acknowledged to move forward to reconciliation.

Together, we call on our collective communities to build a stronger understanding of all peoples who dwell on this land we call home.”

Those attending the ceremony included Elders Betty Letendre and Tony Arcand, ECSD Assistant Superintendent Joe Nacarrato, Trustee Alene Mutala, artist Theodora Harasymiw and Indigenous Learning Services Consultant Darlene Olson.

“This is now the second year that we have dedicated time and efforts to showcasing both First Nations art and First Nations-inspired art in our hallways, main office and student common,” noted Leibel. “This is a clear recognition of Canada’s Indigenous heritage and our dedication to the reconciliation of our Canadian community.”

He also acknowledged the parents, students and staff noting that all of the school’s students and staff and parents in the St. Rose community contributed to this project.

Elder Tony Arcand, a member of the Edmonton Catholic School Board’s Elder’s Senate for the past 13 years, spoke briefly about the blessing and smudging ceremonies, adding that one of the school’s Indigenous students would perform the smudge under his direction.

“It’s important for our young people to learn how to participate in ceremony,” said Elder Arcand. “We are getting older and sooner or later they will have to take our place at ceremony.”

Asked about the traditional receiving of the tobacco he is offered before ceremony, he explained: “I actually quit smoking about 27 years ago; today I return the tobacco to Mother Earth. I dig a hole in the ground, preferably on the south side of a tree and I make a bed in there. I take about four big handfuls (of tobacco) and put it there in the ground while I pray.

Tobacco is so important to

St. Rose students pose with the beautiful mosaic which adorns the staircase at the school.

Native tradition; some of the older Elders still grow their own.”

In closing, Elder Arcand suggested smudging the artwork and the school every four months to coincide with the seasons and the four colours of the Medicine Wheel, red, white, blue and yellow.

Principal Leibel said the project is a culmination of work that’s taken place over the last three years, work that began with participating in Blanket Ceremonies and Tea Ceremonies.

“Last year we had a donation from a family to purchase art work. After talking to the students,” he noted, “they thought it would be nice, given the work we’ve already been doing, to purchase some First Nations art work.”

Toward the end of the process of procuring art work, he noted, the idea came up to add mosaics into the hallways and to maintain the Indigenous theme. The school sat down with visual artist and art educator, Theodora Harasymiw, and together they put a plan together to achieve that goal.

Harasymiw works in her studio but also, since 1997 she Continued on page 12

December, 2017

Alberta Native News

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Stories from the Bush: Traditional Teachings from an Oskapiyos

By Dylan Lightbourn In late 2012 Henry Laboucan, a sakaw îno (Bush Cree man) from Lubicon Lake, approached Randal Kabatoff, the sole proprietor of a small amiskwaciwâskahikan (Edmonton, Alberta) based publishing company, with teachings passed on to him from his Elders and ancestors.

After more than thirty years as an oskapiyos (traditional helper) to four respected Elders, he had earned the right to speak about and share what he had learned years prior to approaching Randal. When he did, he was in his early 70’s, now determined to find some way of preserving teachings passed down to him for the coming generations.

Henry was hesitant to do so through written material, because he wanted to share the teachings in the traditional way: oral storytelling. Like it has been done for thousands of years. Written material doesn’t always preserve a knowledge holder’s voice, and the subtleties of the teachings conveyed by oral stories and the language used to express them. Not only that but the process of sharing traditional knowledge orally teaches people in a different way than if they were to read it. Henry would often say when sharing teachings to not write it down immediately, because in that moment he was “talking to your spirit” and if you wrote it down you were giving it away too soon.

Extracted from "Stories from the Bush"

Merry Christmas, from Alberta Native News

Oral storytelling teaches those who learn to listen and absorb information in this way how to pass these stories on to their communities through storytelling. It encourages relationship and community building around stories that are more than just entertainment. It is about a way of life, and as Henry put it, “a lifetime commitment to a set of moral and ethical principles.” This set of moral and ethical principles entails integrity and right relationship. Henry wanted to make sure that if he shared his teachings, they would be shared with integrity to help the coming generations keep their culture alive, even if they don’t have access to traditional teachings through Elders and older relatives.

It used to be that people would visit their Elders and relatives in their autumn years and going within time. Old people sit in the north on the medicine wheel. They have a lifetime of experience and are close to Creator, who they will be returning to in time. Visiting older relatives and Elders used to be a tradition of reciprocity in many Cree communities that helped transmit culture and build relationship; younger people would bring protocol which included things like traditional food to Elders, which took care of many of their basic needs. In return, Elders and older relatives would teach the younger people how to live in a good way, and about all kinds of practical traditions that had been passed on throughout the generations for the health of people’s body, mind, spirit, and emotions. This created a bond between generations, ensured cultural transmission, and looked after the needs of the knowledge holders. This doesn’t happen nearly enough today, in large part because of the impact colonialism has had on families and young people’s access to traditional education, and cultural and ceremonial experiences. Henry wanted to remind young people to visit with Elders if they can. But this isn’t always possible.

Henry knew that it was time to write the teachings down in a good way, to guarantee the teachings are passed down even if youth do not have access to traditional knowledge through an Elder or older relative. This also became the motivation for the formation of Circle Teachings Publishing, and its first publication, Stories from the Bush.

Together, Circle Teachings and Henry collaborated to create Stories from the Bush. Through a series of ceremonies, and frequent visits with writer Dylan Lightbourn and publisher Randal Kabatoff, Henry shared his teachings in a traditional way, and simultaneously taught Circle Teachings staff about relationship and how to really listen. When the time came, Henry gave Dylan permission to begin writing down the stories for the calendar, and then together they reviewed everything written to make sure it reflected what he wanted to say.

When it was to Henry’s satisfaction, the calendar was published. Any profit made on the calendar is shared with Henry to honour his contributions, and to honour the tradition of reciprocity with knowledge holders who share

Henry Laboucan

their teachings.

Circle Teachings learned that to gather cultural information and preserve it to ensure that it would be there for future generations was to do more than just research. It was to build a relationship with knowledge holders, and support them in sharing this with the coming generations.

Now, Circle Teachings has produced another calendar in addition to Stories from the Bush. It is the Stories from the Kohkoms Calendar, full of teachings from kohkoms living in Treaty 6 territory, made in collaboration with the Kohkom Kisewatisiwin Society, also based in amiskwaciwâskahikan (Edmonton, Alberta).

We at Circle Teachings look forward to future collaborations with knowledge holders, to make sure their voices are heard and their teachings are preserved for the coming faces. Not only do we plan to do this through our calendars, but we will also record knowledge holders sharing stories in their traditional language, to make sure their way of speaking their Indigenous languages is also passed on to future generations. Like Henry always says, “When Elders die, it is like a whole library burnt down.”

We are doing our best to make sure that Elders with knowledge they want to pass down can do so, and we make sure it is done in a way that reflects their teachings in the process. We invite anyone who needs help doing this to contact us and we look forward to building relationship, and strengthening community on this journey of listening, learning, and sharing. We are on this journey together with all who contribute, and all those who read the calendars and learn from the teachings the knowledge holders in our community have shared.

For more information about Circle Teachings Publishing call 780-452-0601 or visit circleteachings.ca.

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Alberta Native News

December, 2017

Music teachers Judy Gatto and Gary Lee with the students at Prince Charles School in Edmonton.

Student musicians excel at Prince Charles School

What the students say...

By John Copley There won’t be too many Alberta Native News readers who don’t recognize the name: Prince Charles School Fiddlers. That’s because this popular group of musically talented elementary school kids continue to train, perform and wow audiences throughout the Edmonton Region with a sound and charisma you may have to see and hear to believe.

“Yes, the students really enjoy learning, playing and showcasing their talent and we are very proud of them,” smiled Prince Charles School Principal Judy Toews, who’s been working at the school for more than two decades. Beginning as a Grade 3 teacher, she advanced to Vice Principal before becoming principal 12 years ago.

Principal Toews talked about the school, its programs, philosophies and initiatives and about the importance of parent engagement, something that she says has continued to grow with each passing year. She said most of the credit for the “outstanding support from the parents and the community” is a result of the school’s music program, an initiative that begins in kindergarten and continues through Grade 6.

“Formal training begins in Grade 4 but every child has the opportunity to become involved in the music program.

Many of the children who leave us when they enter Grade 7 do so at Westmount Jr. High. They also have an outstanding music program and our former students are enjoying it.”

One of the reasons that the students continue to excel is

because when they join the Westmount music program they get their “old teacher” back at least once week.

Judy Gatto has been the music teacher at Prince Charles School for more Ethan L'Hirondelle Soleil Taylor Dakota Petawaysis than a decade. Several days a week she works with her Dakota Petawaysis said she “works hard in school” and would “like to be a doctor music-teaching partner, one day.” She enjoys fiddle music and said, "the fiddle is my favourite instrument Gary Lee, who also works and I like it when I can take it home to play.” with kids in other Ethan L’Hirondelle also likes the fiddle and said he “enjoys the music, especially Edmonton schools, learning new songs." His favourite tune is Old Joe Clark. He hasn’t decided on a including Westmount Jr. future career yet but says he’ll be sticking with music for awhile.

High.

Soleil Taylor loves music class and says “it’s my favourite subject” and especially “I’ve been participating enjoys being a member of the school’s choir. She recently performed with her at Westmount for a couple fellow choir members at an Oil Kings hockey game. When it comes to the future of years,” noted Lee, “and I she said: “I have an uncle who is a lawyer and that’s what I want to be one day.” really enjoy it; seeing the kids move from elementary to Jr. High and continue to meet every goal and have become very watching them transition into even better musicians and accomplished,” praised Lee. “Every time they perform for young men and women is a wonderful thing.” the public, it blows me away to see just how good they Lee has been working with Gatto and the Prince Charles really are.”

School for more than 10 years and says he’s never ceased Gatto also had encouraging words and noted that this to be amazed with the students he helps to teach, noting year she has 26 Grade 4 students in her class. There are that this year’s “beginner students are making a lot of about 15 beginners from other classes. progress; they’re all working very hard and both Judy and “We have a dynamite group of beginners this year,” she I are very proud of the way they are caring for their grinned, noting, “they are working so hard!” instruments.”

There’s also a large group of Grade 5 and 6 music He praised the grade 6 students, many of whom students, many who have previous experience playing a participate in performance outings and trips to various musical instrument. schools and other venues throughout the region, where The school holds various events during the year, they are known as The Prince Charles Fiddlers. In addition something that Principal Toews says “we do to encourage to the fiddle, some students also play guitar and mandolin parents to come in to the school to connect with the staff and others have very special abilities and talents for their and to enjoy the performance that accompanies our feasts young age. They also work hard. and other social activities. And of course, every parent “Our Grade 6 students are very special in that they Continued on page 18

December, 2017

60s scoop

Alberta Native News cont. from p 6

ensure that this reconciliation for 60s Scoop survivors was able to happen. I didn’t know what I was going to do, but I never let the idea leave me.”

He waited, sometimes patiently, others times not for the opportunity he needed.

“I waited for a door to open,” he explained, “and that opportunity came in Adam North Peigan June of 2015 when former Manitoba Premier Greg Salinger stood up in the Manitoba legislature and issued an official apology to all of the 60s Scoop survivors in Manitoba. It was a big deal and as such it was all over the news and all of the national CBC and CTV programmers carried the story. That was a very emotional day for me to see one of our government leaders here in Canada stand up and say ‘I’m sorry.’ Listening to that apology was a good thing but I wasn’t from Manitoba and their provincial government didn’t remove me from my home, but at the same time I realized that if Manitoba can apologize so can Alberta.”

The day after hearing that apology North Peigan began to write letters.

“I started writing letters to the Alberta government just about the same time that Rachel Notley became the premier here. I wrote to the premier and told her my story and urged her to consider doing what Manitoba had done and issue an apology so that our healing process could begin. There are more than 20,000 60s Scoop survivors living in Alberta.”

Many letters changed hands over the months that followed but nothing was really being done.

“There was a lot of lip service going on but nothing concrete, nothing tangible was happening. In early June of 2016 I started to meet with my local MLA here in Edmonton Castledowns, Nicole Goring. I met with her several times and shared my story and told her we needed Alberta to apologize and that we needed recognition and a platform toward reconciliation for Alberta’s 60s Scoop survivors.”

Goring was able to set up a meeting between North Peigan and Indigenous Relations Minister Richard Feehan, soon after he was appointed to the position.

“I met with Mr. Feehan and told him my story, suggesting how Alberta’s position on this important issue could be improved by an apology and some kind of action that could bring about reconciliation. He listened to me but at that time I was alone and we all know there is strength in numbers so though he listened intently, nothing really came out of that meeting.”

The letter writing continued. In February this year the Ontario Supreme Court ruled in favour of 60s Scoop survivors in Ontario. The survivors sued the government and sought $1.3 billion or about $85,000 per survivor. When that happened the whole issue of 60s Scoop survivors was brought to the forefront once again.

“I watched that ruling and then contacted and spoke to media here in Edmonton - CBC, Global, 630 CHED, CFWE and others about the 60s Scoop and what had happened in Ontario. I began to contact government here once again but nothing really happened.”

Frustrated and out of ideas, North Peigan met with the leader of the opposition, then the Wildrose Party. He spoke with Aboriginal Affairs critic Dave Hanson and after their meeting Hanson agreed to get involved.

“He listened to my story and what I had to say and he was passionate about it,” he noted.

“He’d already done his research on the 60s Scoop and told me that he realized the travesty that I and others had been put through. He told me that he’d bring the matter up in the legislature. He wanted to do it to coincide with Finance Minister Joe Ceci’s release of the provincial budget on March 16 this year.”

Hanson told North Peigan to bring other 60s Scoop survivors with him and to sit in the gallery atop the floor of the legislature. He brought about 30 people with him and watched as Hanson got up in the legislature to address the issue.

“When he introduced us we all stood up and it was a very emotional moment; there were a lot of tears shed that day. Hanson told Premier Notley, the Indigenous Relations Minister and everyone in attendance that the 60s Scoop was a tragedy and a dark part of Alberta’s history. He wanted to know what they planned to do about it. Premier Notley stood up that day and admitted that the 60s Scoop era was indeed a black mark in the province’s history. She then committed to reconciliation and said that an apology would be forthcoming. Minister Feehan also stood up and said that a format would have to be put in place to allow the apology and ongoing reconciliation to happen.

That day hasn’t happened yet, but North Peigan said he believes that the premier will follow through in the near future.

“I hope it happens sometime in 2018,” he said, “but in the meantime progress is being made. I was only at home after that meeting for about an hour and the phone rang. It was Minister Feehan; we had a lengthy conversation that day and ever since then positive things began to happen.”

About two weeks after that phone conversation another meeting was set up.

11

“The premier designated two of her ministers to the file, Minister Feehan and Children’s Services Minister, Danielle Larivee. We met together in the legislature boardroom, along with other 60s Scoop survivors, on March 28th.

North Peigan is hopeful that 2018 will be the year that the Government of Alberta apologizes for the tremendous harm created via the 60s Scoop era.

“Both ministers, Richard Feehan and Danielle Larivee, have been heavily involved in this issue since March this year and progress is being made. They have helped facilitate and move this issue forward and I believe that it’s just a matter of getting all the i’s dotted and t’s crossed.

Once we have our platform firmly in place, I expect that the apology and a plan to develop reconciliation will happen within the government. I am optimistic and believe the Alberta government is serious about helping us to resolve this very important issue.”

If you are a 60s Scoop survivor and would like to help ensure that the future is no longer hindered because of misunderstandings and/or bureaucratic denial, contact Adam North Peigan at adamnorthpeigan@gmail.com.

12

Alberta Native News

Camp-out

cont. from p 5

from different perspectives, so Indigenous peoples living in communities like Piikani aren’t necessarily forced to think about it the way people working in a city high-rise might think about it.”

Elders and school officials in Piikani wanted to see a youth-based project about the community’s Blackfoot culture and language, and that provided an opportunity for McMahon, who researches how Indigenous communities can tailor technology to their needs.

“I’m curious about how technology can be used to support people’s self-determined goals. Too often, Indigenous youth have to make a false choice between adopting digital technologies or participating in the cultural and language-driven activities grounded in their communities,” he said. “This project shows that they can do both. Instead of sitting at computers in a classroom, this is a way to get digital skills in an appropriate land-based learning environment.”

The project saw ten Grade 9 students work with a mix of Elders including Many Guns, along with other community members, McMahon and one of his graduate students. The teens spent three days learning about traditional Blackfoot games and sports, stories, drumming, songs, cooking, fire-making and tipi-raising. They interviewed Elders, toured the community’s ranch, gravel pit and wind turbines to learn about economic

School mosaics

cont. from p 8

has been working as an Artist in Residence with schools to develop art programs which most often culminate in a permanent installation.

The project, which took about three and a half weeks to complete, began with designs and drawings and projections onto the walls where each piece was outlined and sketched. The beauty now resonates off the five mosaic creations. Each one is comprised of hundreds, if not thousands, of coloured and specially marked mosaic tiles. The array of colours is guaranteed to lift the spirits of everyone who uses the staircase.

Harasymiw said the project demanded a lot of attention and little time for leisure. The images she created were projected on the walls before being outlined. The students, who had some design ideas and themes they wanted to see incorporated into the mosaics, worked together with the

development and visited Napi’s Playground, an area sacred to the Blackfoot.

The teens recorded it all on film and during the school year will edit and produce short videos of their footage, then present it to the Piikani community next June.

“It’s cool that we are videotaping our culture and going to be sharing the video with other people,” said Dawn Many Guns, 16.

And while they picked up skills like knowing how to get good camera angles and frame a story, there was also a greater lesson of self-discovery.

“I learned more about myself and I feel like I’m not as shy as I was; I also learned more about my culture and how my people used to do things back in the day,” said Shelby Potts, 15. “Just being with my classmates and getting to know more about our culture is such a great experience for me.” artist throughout the project. Once all of the design work and tile manipulation was complete the pieces were set permanently into place. Students and parents both participated and parents played a big role in helping the artist as they worked together and painstakingly handbroke every piece of tile used in the project.

“It is quite an accomplishment,” noted David Donovan, shortly after he, with the aid of Elder Tony Arcand, completed his smudge of the five creations. Donovan is one of only five Indigenous students enrolled in the school. “When you walk down the stairs and you see the art it’s a good feeling, especially when you know that you participated in the making of it.”

Student Madison Bessett participated in the mosaic project and was earlier involved in the purchasing of First Nations art. The projects have given her a new perspective, one she hopes will resonate in others. She’s a 14-year-old Grade 9 student and says her involvement has brought a new awareness to her.

“Before I participated in these projects,” she admitted, “I didn’t know very much about Indigenous people or their traditions but since being involved I’ve gained new awareness and great respect for Indigenous people and their cultures and traditions. The more you talk and intermingle with one another the more you get to know about other people; I’m happy that I became involved and will continue to be. I think these mosaic murals are very important because they share a lot of information about Indigenous peoples, their cultures and their beliefs.”

A lot of Edmonton schools are becoming more aware of Treaty 6 and the importance of acknowledging the history and culture of the First Nation peoples.

Artist Harasymiw was pleased with the final results of

December, 2017

“It taught me a lot about my cultural background; I am more interested in it and it makes me really proud to be native,” added Thunder Crowshoe, 15.

Hoping to keep the project going, McMahon is applying for grants to fund more camps for the next three summers with Piikani Nation. This year’s event has already resulted in two handbooks, one for instructors and one for student participants, that the

school can use to create their own future workshops.

Herman Many Guns sees far-reaching benefits of the project that go beyond Piikani Nation.

This article was originally published in Folio.ca, at the University of Alberta.

the project and said her work is more in demand today because of the growing awareness by Canadians about the important role that Indigenous peoples have played in Canada’s growth.

“A lot more schools are becoming more aware of Treaty 6 and the importance of acknowledging our history and the cultures of First Nations people,” she said. “Dedicating this whole stairway, I believe, is a good start to having students become better aware of the Indigenous peoples, their cultures and traditions.”

The feedback about the mosaic project, she said, “has been incredible. Understanding what the images mean, and what the Medicine Wheel represents are important and more and more people are learning about it and understanding that at one time this wasn’t Canada, it was called Turtle Island.”

“The new mosaics are also instilling greater pride within the five Indigenous students registered at St. Rose Jr. High this year.

“We only have five,” nodded Leibel, “but to those five individuals this project has meant the world to them. They are walking with pride and it’s a great thing to see. Projects such as this have a way of releasing human potential because when you are proud of your heritage you are at a point where you can share all of your gifts with others.”

If there’s one thing Leibel said he’d like to see as a result of this meaningful project and the positive difference it is making, it’s more government commitment.

“I think the more that we can get this message out to government that we need to spend more resources on sending this type of positive message to everyone, the better it is - and I believe our communities will get involved in this as well.”

Nehiyaw (Cree) Language Classes Regain your language and culture! Join Reuben Quinn and learn Nehiyaw in the traditional way through cahkipehikanak (syllabics), better known as the star chart. This format of teaching incorporates the cultural and philosophical teachings of the Nehiyaw language.

Classes for adult learners meet twice weekly at St. Alphonsus School, Edmonton.

Registration is now open for the Winter Session (January-March).

To register online, visit cfrac.com For more information, visit our website, call us at 780-4254644, or email rquinn@cfrac.com Funded by the Government of Canada

December, 2017

Amiskwaciy

Alberta Native News cont. from p 4

it is a special time to share, to reflect and to celebrate with one another.”

Minister Eggen brought greetings from the province from Premier Rachel Notley and offered a “sincere thanks to both Amiskwaciy Academy and the Edmonton Public School Board for your leadership in how we can move forward teaching First Nation, Métis and Inuit languages and traditions, not just here in Edmonton, but right across the Province of Alberta as well.

“As we know from a dark period in our history residential schools, the 60s Scoop and so forth, it was the Elders that kept the cultures, traditions and languages alive. But here now in 2017 we reach out as the Government of Alberta to help, to work together to ensure that language and culture are not just existing, but thriving in all of our schools across Alberta. To building curriculum and language through cultural awareness training, not just for teachers, but for the whole public service, our government is committed to the tenets of the Truth and Reconciliation (Calls to Action) and the United Nations Declaration as well.”

The minister also noted that the province is working hard to ensure that all Albertans “have the education (and) the cultural understanding of First Nations, Métis and Inuit tradition here in our province.”

Principal Fred Hines, noting that he realized how busy everyone is at this time of year, thanked the large audience, noting “we have a lot of support here at Amiskwaciy Academy from our community and from our community sponsors; it’s a great honour to be able to work with all of you. We really appreciate it; it’s all this coming together that helps make sure our students are successful here.”

Just before the clock struck noon Elder Francis Whiskeyjack took to the podium where he blessed the food and offered a prayer. Soon after, Theo Augibelle announced that Elders and special guests could begin making their way to the buffet lines.

The feast included delicious turkey, scrumptious ham, tasty mashed potatoes soaked in a rich brown gravy, salad, dessert and all the trimmings. Before dinner got underway and immediately following the meal a number of door prize draws took place. When the draws were complete the winners took home one of the 15 or so school shopmade gifts which included decorated snowmen and some nicely crafted reindeer.

The entire outing proved to be another wonderful Amiskwaciy event, talking to old friends, meeting some

13

new ones and enjoying the company of so many upbeat and like-minded people. The two emcees for the 2017 Feast did an outstanding job; the event’s agenda moved along on time and the two students were like polished professionals.

Eaglechild, who resides in Edmonton during the school year, is originally from the Kainai Piikani Nation in southern Alberta. She’s in Grade 10 and it’s her first-year at Amiskwaciy Academy.

Augibelle has been attending for three years and makes his home on the Alexander First Nation near Morinville.

“This is the best school I have ever attended,” stated Eaglechild, with her enthusiasm obvious in both her smile and comments. “I was a little nervous when I came here in September but as I got to know everyone and realized just how wonderful everyone is here - students, the principal, the teachers, Elders - it is all very inspiring and it makes you want to "Amiskwaciy Academy appreciates the work being done on behalf apply yourself and do well. It’s especially of the school by its many volunteers and community partners," explains good for me because I came from a school Elder Francis Whiskeyjack. To show that appreciation, during one or where I wasn’t doing very well, and since more of its annual seasonal feasts, the academy “honours those we hold coming here to Amiskwaciy, I am now in high esteem” with the gift of a Pendleton or similar blanket that doing quite well. I’ve never been in a represents warmth and friendship. school like this one; culturally, spiritually Honour Blanket recipient Harvey Succarro is a social worker and and emotionally it is truly wonderful. I am volunteer who devotes much of his time to Amiskwaciy Academy and doing a lot of things now that I really to Métis Child and Family Services where he is instrumental in helping hesitated to do or didn’t do before coming the two community partners acquire food supplies. He also works with here - dancing like I did today in front of the Christmas Bureau. all these people is one of them. I was a bit “Harvey is a sincere, respectful and caring person,” explained Elder nervous at first but now I feel great!”

Whiskeyjack. “He goes the extra step to help our students, especially Augibelle lives on the Alexander First when it comes to making sure they have enough to eat. He has been a Nation and travels back and forth to very good friend of the school for more than seven years. He is very school. humble and doesn’t like to take credit but the work he does is really During his first year, he said, “I was a helping our students.” bit lonely in the beginning because I really didn’t talk to too many people but it Aboriginal context. The school, which is open to students wasn’t long before I got to know the others and made of all backgrounds and cultures, honours the Aboriginal some friends and it’s helped me a lot. I’d recommend community and reflects its cultures, values, ancestral Amiskwaciy Academy to anyone because it’s a great knowledge and traditions in achieving excellence in school with a caring environment.” education.

Amiskwaciy Academy is an Edmonton Public School For information visit amiskwaciy.epsb.ca program of choice that provides solid academic programming within an

Amiskwaciy Honour Ceremony

14

Alberta Native News

BC First Nations denounce Site-C project First Nations leaders and environmentalists are denouncing this month’s announcement by BC Premier John Horgan to approve continuation of BC Hydro’s SiteC Dam project on the Peace River, approximately seven kilometers west of Fort St. John in northeastern BC. Two Treaty 8 First Nations opposed to Site C told media that they'll be seeking a court injunction to halt the dam's continued construction.

The West Moberly and Prophet River First Nations have indicated that they plan to seek the injunction and launch a treaty infringement lawsuit following the premier’s December 11 green light for the project to continue.

The dam will result in the flooding and destruction of 5,550 hectares of land within the traditional territory of Treaty 8 First Nations. According to the First Nations, the continuation of the Site-C will have significant negative impacts on the ability of Treaty 8 First Nations to exercise their constitutionally-protected Treaty rights to harvest and to engage in various traditional activities on the land surrounding the reservoir.

“We are very disappointed that the NDP government has decided to proceed full steam ahead with the Site-C Dam project despite numerous studies that question the economic viability and need for the project and the great cost to those First Nations that will be directly impacted,” said Robert Phillips of the First Nations Summit Political Executive.

“The previous provincial government chose to completely ignore their constitutional duty to consult and accommodate Treaty 8 First Nations prior to making the original decision to move forward with the Site-C project,” added Phillips. “We are bitterly disappointed that Premier Horgan and the NDP government has chosen to stay on that same destructive path. This approach is unacceptable and an affront to the cultivation of constructive government-to-government relationships between the provincial government and BC First Nations.”

“BC First Nations have been very encouraged by the

December, 2017

Calling Lake School celebrates

NDP government commitments to fully implement the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UN Declaration) and the TRC Calls to Action.

We believe today’s decision to proceed with the Site-C project is in direct conflict with these commitments,” said Cheryl Casimer of the FNS Political Executive.

“The First Nations Summit has consistently maintained the necessary standard for any consultation development project in BC, especially those with such a high potential for negative impacts, such as Site-C, must be to seek the free, prior and informed Calling Lake School students, parents, staff and community consent of each and every First Nation members celebrated two high school graduates on December 2, whose Aboriginal title and rights will be 2017.

The school community honoured Skyler Gagnon and Shania impacted. First Nations Summit leaders by organizing a ceremony, a graduation feast and a round Gambler will be seeking an early meeting with dance.

The evening began with a pipe ceremony performed by Elder, Premier Horgan to discuss the decision Victor Gladue.

Following the pipe ceremony, Gladue spoke about the and the impact it will have on importance of education before presenting Skyler and Shania each relationships between the Government of an Eagle feather encased in personalized shadow boxes. The with BC and BC First Nations moving eagle feather symbolizes respect, honour, love, strength, courage forward.” wisdom.

They were also presented with commemorative coins and Assembly of First Nations (AFN) from the previous local school board committee.

National Chief Perry Bellegarde said the Calling Lake School is a K-12 school, located in Calling Lake. near decision to move forward with the Site C Athabasca AB. It operates as part of Northland School Divsion #61. dam project is a major setback to reconciliation and that First Nations will continue to work towards protection and prevention of the Prophet River First Nation toured the pristine Treaty 8 territory and the Peace River region. Over the years, destruction of First Nations traditional territory.

“Today’s decision is disappointing,” said AFN National Treaty 8 First Nations have taken legal action to overturn approvals of the controversial hydroelectric project that Chief Bellegarde.

If this project proceeds it will devastate traditional would flood thousands of acres of their traditional territories and sacred sites. The B.C. Liberal government territories and prevent them from exercising their rights.

“It’s clear that Site C should never have been started,” pledged to work towards reconciliation and this decision is completely contrary to that. We will ensure governments stated Premier Horgan. “But to cancel it would add respect our peoples, our rights and our lands. I commend billions to the Province’s debt – putting at risk our ability the people of Treaty 8 for their action and advocacy to deliver housing, child care, schools and hospitals for against Site C and we families across B.C. And that’s a price we’re not willing to stand with them as they pay.”

“I respect and honour the commitment of people who continue this fight.”

The AFN and National oppose Site C, and share their determination to move B.C. Chief Bellegarde have a to a clean, renewable energy future and to embrace the longstanding position principles of reconciliation with Indigenous opposing the proposed communities,” said Premier Horgan, who acknowledged Site C dam. On October that Site C does not have the support of all Treaty 8 First 22, 2016, National Chief Nations. “We know this decision is not what some First Bellegarde along with Nations wanted. Their voices were heard and their leadership from the West perspectives were an important part of the deliberations on Moberly First Nation and a very challenging decision.”

December, 2017

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, 2017

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.

Creating Hope

cont. from p 7

Elder Emil Durocher got the afternoon underway with a prayer and some words of wisdom before turning the mic over to co-emcee Adrian LaChance, a polished and professional entertainer and speaker who shared the afternoon duties with partner David Long, a professor at King’s University.

The Grand Entry proceeded thorough the room; dancers dressed in colourful regalia leading the way as they danced to the drum music presented by LaChance and two of his talented sons. Speakers included the three contest judges, Alberta’s Indigenous Relations Minister Richard Feehan, businessman, community leaders and activist Lewis Cardinal and entrepreneur Allan Emond; Bernadette

Iahtail and Edmonton Immigrant Services Association (EISA) Program Manager, Oliver Kamau.

“Our Five days of Reconciliation project was initially undertaken to talk about and deal with the 94 Calls to Action (recommendations) delivered by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission last year,” explained Iahtail, “but it has turned out to be even more than that. When you put people together in conversation new topics arise and many questions are asked. We don’t have all the answers but we are continuing to seek solutions. Child welfare is one of the biggest issues and concerns among Indigenous peoples today, and of course, it is one of the main topics on the CHS agenda each and every day. The Serenity case has created a lot of conversation, both in the community and in the local and national media news broadcasts. The message that I get from the people is a seemingly simple one, but it’s going to be a complex process to bring it to fruition - until we have our children being cared for by Indigenous caregivers; until we have our children in Aboriginal homes, and whenever possible, with their own families, reconciliation will be difficult to achieve. Our children are our future and if they are to fulfill their destinies, we need them to come home.”

Minister Feehan spoke briefly, congratulated CHS for their continued work on behalf of marginalized Indigenous peoples and spoke about the importance of working together to achieve similar goals. He talked about the Alberta government’s mandate and commitment to the provinces’ Indigenous peoples and communities and noted “that we are working hard and remain committed to working together with Indigenous people as we travel together on this journey.”

Professor of Sociology at King’s University, David Long, has been working with Iahtail and the CHS

for the last ten years.

“It’s been a great honour to do that,” he said. “These Five Days of Reconciliation have been part of the Canada 150 Celebration. Participating in these five days of reconciliation our hope was to open up to Edmontonians and let them know that there are many ways in which we can reconcile. There are many ways we can walk together, learn to respect one another, enjoy and celebrate each other.”

Long also read a note from newly elected Ward 4 City Councilor Aaron Paquette, in which he stated: “These five days have been an important step in acknowledging our past, learning from our shared experiences and healing our hearts. With the commitment of all citizens we will achieve a better, stronger city.”

Lewis Cardinal addressed the gathering and noted: “this event is a very important (venue) for our people. Just a few years ago we didn’t realize that these types of conversations would take place, where we as Indigenous people would be taking our rightful place in this society.

When I see these kinds of gatherings it gives me hope, it gives me a sign that we are on the right road toward reconciliation.”

Cardinal also talked about treaties and noted that “they are not just a land agreement written on a piece of paper treaty is about relationships. When we as Indigenous people made treaty with other nations that ceremony was considered an adoption ceremony. A treaty is not just a piece of paper, but a covenant, a relationship process that we participate in.”

Guest Speaker Oliver Kamau is the Program Manager for the Edmonton Immigrants Services Association (EISA). Originally from Kenya, Kamau now makes his home in Alberta’s capital.

“This is my first time speaking to a gathering like this and it gives me great honour that Bernadette asked me to speak here today,” noted Kamau. “I came to Canada from Kenya 20 years ago, so I am a guest in this country, this city and in this room today. I feel honoured to be here today - to join with this family - you even have Elders here just like we do back home. Today I see a vibrant community celebrating its culture, its languages and its people. I see children, youth, adults and Elders and I feel very much at home.

“I work with immigrants coming to Canada and one of things I make sure they know about are the country’s Indigenous peoples and what they have endured over the (last 300) years.”

He spoke about his homeland, noting that his people too have suffered at the hands of others.

“Socially, politically, economically - in many ways we have suffered the same fate. All I can say is that I am grateful to be here and I am committed to being an effective ally in this journey toward reconciliation."

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December, 2017

Alberta Native News

Climate change

cont. from p 2

vehicles in the communities - we could help to lessen our impact on the environment. Maybe most important, we have to increase our standards; we have to say, hey, I’m going to walk down to the band office instead of driving my truck today. Change that light bulb today so that we can start showing our kids and teaching them about climate change. We all need to make some changes; if we carry on like we always have, our kids won’t have a future.

We have to be both creative and innovative in our actions and our policies around climate change; together we can make a difference.”

A slight change in the schedule gave Tanya Kappo an opportunity to discuss climate change and what it means.

Kappo is a Treaty 8 First Nations employee who provides advisory assistance and support. A graduate of the Faculty of Law at the University of Manitoba, Kappo also completed International Law at the Rothberg International School at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. She is also a practicing lawyer who specializes in representing Indian Residential School survivors.

“It’s really important,” she stressed, “to get the communities to start talking about climate change - what is it and what does it mean? When I think of climate change the foremost thing that comes to mind is our responsibilities. I was taught that our treaty relationships and the treaties themselves translate to our responsibility to the lands, to the waters and to the ones who cannot speak for themselves, and for the ones who are not born yet. My mother told me that our most stringent environmental covenant, no matter what treaty we are from, is based on the term: as long as the sun shines, the grass grows and the waters flow. This statement (from the treaties) alone tells us about the important responsibility we have. Our treaty relationship isn’t just about the rights that it gives us, but also about the responsibilities that we have to honour (the treaties).

“When you think about climate change you think about the quality of the air we breathe, the water we drink, the food we eat. I think that it is no secret that as Indigenous people we have known for a long time that the situation has grown worse and is becoming very dire. Our actions as human beings, especially as they relate to resource development, are having a significant and very detrimental effect on the land and in the water. The consequences of this development are affecting us, just as they are affecting our wilderness relatives, the animals.”

She reiterated Chief Laboucan-Avirom’s words about

the diminishing hunting grounds and noted that “it is heartbreaking and devastating to hear the Elders, the trappers and hunters, talk about the changes in their lifestyle. They are often very emotional about these changes to the land. These negative effects of a warming climate affects each one of us because of our close relationship with the land and the water.”

Kappo talked about other influences, that combined with climate change, continue to have a negative impact on Indigenous peoples and communities. These included the impact of residential schools, a near 200-year period of church-run schools that worked tirelessly to eliminate Indigenous language, tradition and culture. Racist government policy, coupled with cruelly misguided intentions and forced religious beliefs interrupted Indigenous connections to the land for nearly two centuries. It was a time, noted Kappo, “where we as Indigenous peoples lost much of our knowledge.”

She also spoke about how climate change and the ramifications of the Residential School era have forced more and more Aboriginal people into the urban areas and away from the land.

“It’s important to maintain our connection to the land,” assured Kappo, “because if we are unable to have those relationships with the land anymore, I think it may be easy for the government to say ‘we don’t have to acknowledge and recognize treaties or Aboriginal rights anymore because you don’t live like that anymore. And that’s not a choice that any of us would ever make.”

Kappo also spoke about political changes.

“We have a provincial government that is open to having this conversation about climate change, although we still have a lot of work to do to get to talk to them about what it really means, as opposed to the energy efficiency ideas that seem to be their priority. There is a lot more to climate change than putting solar panels on our buildings or staking our economic development goals for bio-mass fuel or whatever is out there. These are important parts to it but there’s a lot more to consider.”

In closing, Kappo promoted conversation and awareness and noted that there “are a lot of things to think about as we move forward, things that we can do collectively to support these climate change efforts for all of our communities and for our children’s communities tomorrow.”

Louis Bull First Nation councilor Desmond Bull was the next speaker. A former educator, Desmond Bull is in

17

his second term as an elected councilor. Last year he attended a solar energy course and then went on to develop energy efficiency and solar projects for his home community. Last summer he was appointed to the Alberta Energy Efficiency Advisory Panel by Minister Shannon Phillips. During the last seven years Bull has been successfully involved in various projects and continues to develop his skills in environmental science, solar distribution and business management.

Taking the podium at the River Cree Resort, Bull talked about Louis Bull’s solar initiative and how it was making a positive difference in the community. He also noted the importance of educating the community, saying that knowledge about solar technology would go “a long way to benefit” our community, “but more important, it will enhance environmental responsibility and sustainable practices.”

Bull went on to talk about the numerous solar projects that have been completed on the Louis Bull Nation, noting that in 2016 the band was able to connect solar power to four of the community’s main buildings: Louis Bull’s Tribal Training Centre, Public Works Building and Fire Hall, and the Maskwacis Health Centre.

Other topics introduced by Bull included waste Continued on page 18

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Alberta Native News

Student music

cont. from p 10

wants to watch his or her child perform. It’s a fun time for everyone.”

On November 7 the school participated in the annual Aboriginal Family Night celebration, or Witchitowin, an initiative developed via a 2006 partnership between Edmonton Public Schools and the Bent Arrow Traditional Healing Society.

“It was a wonderful evening and enjoyed by more than 200 people,” smiled Toews. “It was a really good turnout and a positive sign for the future. The kids really preformed well and they received a lot of applause and praise.”

The annual gathering of families, teachers and students is designed to bring families and staff together at the school where they will be in a safe, comfortable environment.

“Building positive partnerships between the school and our families directly impacts how successful our students will be – academically and socially,” emphasized Toews in a message to parents. “We know that all children learn differently and that they bring many learning strengths to the classroom. In developing your child’s bright future, Prince Charles staff will be striving to build on your child’s strengths while supporting them to stretch and develop new skills that will guide them in the 21st Century. We cannot do this work on our own - our students’ continued success relies heavily on parents supporting their children, encouraging them to do daily home reading and talking to them about what they are learning.”

Prince Charles School has a great atmosphere that is conducive to a great parent-teacher-student relationship.

“The school is warm, nurturing and respectful,” noted Toews, “and with continued parental involvement we are a team working together to accomplish all that we dream for our children.”

Climate change

cont. from p 17

treatment, reclamation, restoration, community project partners & sponsors and training initiatives that saw community members participate in the installation of a “100 percent fully funded, eight-kilowatt solar system on our community daycare,” a project he said was “truly enhanced by the cultural integration that my tribe offered as host, including cultural ceremony, practices and protocol.”

The cultural integration initiative also included “a cultural celebration with our Elders giving their blessing to the project. Our local school students performed powwow music with traditional dances and a traditional meal of

December, 2017

Toews also notes that “the Code of the Golden Feather is the foundation of our community. We practice Respect, Humility, Honesty and Integrity each and every day in all that we say and do. We are also a Leader In Me School and support all of our students to be leaders. Staff strive to support each child to find and develop his or her strengths to be positive change agents in their school, their family, and their community.”

Prince Charles Fiddlers: (l-r) Ayla Dornbusch-Metallic, Gena Lameman, Celynn The focus of the music Clarke, Amiellia Wapass-Landstrom and (bakground) Aliyad Nand. students is currently on preparation for the “I have certainly seen these benefits over the years,” she Christmas Concert and playing for their families. “The concluded. “Not only do the students learn to play an excitement is building,” assured Gatto. “We’ve already instrument, they learn how to play together in a group; had several performance dates this fall, the last was with they also learn a great deal about themselves and about the Métis Week in November at Grant MacEwan University.” importance of working together as a team.”

“Judy and Gary do an outstanding job,” noted Toews, Over the past three years the fiddle-playing students at “not only with the music program and the children who Prince Charles School have played in dozens of venues participate in it, but also throughout the community as they and in front of thousands of people. They’ve “wowed” the talk about and promote our school and the students and crowds at venues that include everything from National help organize their next performance.”

Aboriginal Day outings to music jamborees, First Nations “Playing music is fun and it makes you feel good,” conferences, Edmonton’s Truth and Reconciliation added Gatto. “No matter what's going on in your life, hearing, Fort Edmonton Park and more. They’ve even playing music makes you feel better. Our fiddle and guitar joined the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra for two students learn at different speeds and in different ways; we separate performances. just do our very best to make the music program a positive Prince Charles School is located at 12325 - 127 Street in experience.”

Edmonton and it is part of the Edmonton Public School Research, she assured, has shown that playing music has District. many benefits for the students. moose meat, with gifts in exchange.”

Solar Energy Society of Alberta (SESA) Executive Director Rob Harlan addressed the symposium and spoke briefly about SESA and its 41 years of commitment to the environment.

“I can think of nothing more important to do than sit together and talk about balance in this day and age of climate change,” he assured after taking the mic. SESA is up to date in the solar industry and a leader when it comes to promoting environmental safety and awareness training and initiatives.

During his talk to the gathering, Harlan welcomed First Nations and invited them to get involved with the Society and to utilize the information and services it has gathered, developed and offered over the years. Formed in 1976 as the Northern Alberta Chapter of the Solar Energy Society

of Canada Inc. (SESCI-NAC) the society is mandated to advance the awareness, understanding and use of solar energy as well as other renewable energy and conservation technologies.

Other speakers during the day-long symposium included Green Energy Corporation manager, Vickie Wetchie, Treaty 8 Elder Mike Beaver, Elder Jane Dragon, Peter Cardinal, Glenda Abbott, Cowboy Smith X, Sadie Phoenix Lavoie and Curtis McAdam.

Indigenous Climate Action (ICA) was formed in 2015 and remains the only Indigenous-led climate justice organization in Canada that prioritizes Indigenous peoples and communities as agents of change for climate change solutions.

See the website at: indigenousclimateaction.com

December, 2017

Alberta Native News

19

Quit playing games

by Xavier Kataquapit (Under the Northern Sky) - Just about everywhere I go these days I am surrounded by people who are into gaming. By gaming I mean console, PC and online games.

There are a lot of games that have to do with war or violence in terms of first person shooters or FPS. These are shooting games where you are the character that controls a weapon that shoots other people or characters.

There are also a multitude of sports games having to do with hockey, car racing and all types of performance vehicles. There are also MMORPG which is short form for massively multiplayer online role-playing games.

These types of games have to do with you being a character in a digital world where you play in scenarios and settings with hundreds or even thousands of other players on-line.

These games are mostly played on a console platform such as the Xbox or Playstation or a PC however gaming is now becoming popular on smart phones. These games are very seductive and in many cases highly developed with incredible life like graphics and story lines.

One huge problem with gaming in general is the amount of time it takes up as people become more or less addicted to them and spend countless hours sitting and playing them. It becomes their world and is often an escape from reality. Gaming can be like a drug or alcohol addiction in many ways. Although it seems harmless it causes a lot of problems.

Some of these games can contribute to confusion with reality and real life. Some of them are so violent that they can cause a person to normalize violence. Shooting other characters is a big part of many of these games.

Perhaps the biggest problem with playing these games is that a person becomes very sedentary and spends so much time sitting and not moving that it becomes unhealthy. Sometimes gamers forget to eat or instead have drinks that are not good for them. They consume a lot of junk food so they do not have to leave their game and they drink high energy liquids to keep them going. Sometimes gamers will go for many hours without sleep.

I have always enjoyed games as they were an interesting form of escape for me when I was living back home in Attawapiskat. However, these days there is better on-line service in remote First Nations and a multitude of games to become addicted to. First Nation youth are

dealing already with difficult times in remote communities so gaming is very attractive to them as an escape. Many people on First Nations also don't have access to healthy diets so sitting and playing games contributes to obesity and lack of exercise or motivation to do things.

Diabetes is already a huge problem on an epidemic scale with so many First Nations.

The addiction to gaming with people dedicating much of their day to sitting in front of their monitor means they are not bothering to eat well and not getting any decent exercise. I think we are producing a new young crop of people with diabetes because of addictions to gaming.

People are generally spending so much time on all devices their playing games, communicating with others and browsing the world wide web. This is happening with people walking on the streets in cities and towns as they carry on conversations without really knowing what is going on around them.

They are doing the same while driving their vehicles and I see many in restaurants with friends and family. It is so strange to be sitting with friends and family at a gathering but realizing that half the people are somewhere else in their on-line world through their smart phones or tablets. I find it really weird because it is special to be able to get together with friends and family for a visit but disappointing when they do not really commit to involving themselves in this social opportunity.

Gaming makes sense in some ways but really I believe in general the negatives outweigh the benefits.

Teens and people in their 20s and 30s should be thinking about how to have

interesting careers that satisfy them. They should be working to contribute in some way to their families, friends and communities in the real world. They could be thinking of travelling to other places in the world in search of new experiences and cultures. Those are real life games I believe in.

We only have one life to play with in this reality. We should do our best to rack up as many experience points in the game of life and keep our health bar as full as possible.

Reality is what you make it.

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

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Alberta Native News

December, 2017