Volume 35 Number 12 December, 2018
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Cover art: Fancy Eagles @ by Donna Debassige Brinkworth. See article on page 12
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Alberta Native News
December, 2018
Sober Walk stresses health, community & commitment by John Copley Poundmaker’s Lodge Treatment Centres (PTLC) recently hosted its annual Sober Walk in recognition of Canada’s National Addictions Awareness Week, an event initiated in 1988 to highlight addictions issues. The initiative gives Canadians the opportunity to learn more about prevention, to talk about treatment and recovery, and to introduce solutions for change. More than 250 Sober Walk marchers joined the staff, Elders and administration of Poundmaker’s Lodge at the start point (Canada Place in Edmonton) before making their way along Jasper Avenue and down 107 Street to the steps of the Alberta Legislature. As the long line of participants marched to the Legislature Building several speakers rose up the stairs and joined the host dignitaries as they prepared to deliver comments to the gathering. After an opening prayer by PLTC Elder Clifford Rabbitskin, emcee Lance Scout was introduced. Scout carried the ball throughout the two-hour session of keynote and guest speakers, first explaining to the crowd why the Sober Walk is such an important initiative. He spoke about the importance of cherishing the Creator, of treating every person fairly and respectfully. He talked about his 18 years’ experience as a worker in health care, “where I worked to heal my people, where I felt their pain and realized their frustration.” He spoke again about the Creator, thanked his blessings for his own sobriety and paid tribute to the Poundmaker’s Treatment Centre’s Board of Directors “for the outstanding work they do and the results they get when it comes to helping our people overcome addictions. I thank all the Poundmaker’s Board members, then and now and those to come. The programs and treatment model embraced by the Poundmaker’s Treatment Lodge Centres have made and are making a significant difference in the lives of many individuals.”
Poundmaker’s Board Chair Jim Brule was the first to speak. He thanked the many people who joined the march and participated in the annual walk and noted how proud he and the organization are Marchers in recovery offer important warnings and messages about drug and to support and be involved alcohol addictions. in the Sober Walk and other important community events. He spoke about the road to sobriety and the ongoing effort involved in helping to make a positive difference in an individual’s life, and in turn, the unrelenting commitment it takes from those on the road to recovery and sobriety. “It is only by supporting Lance Scout Marilyn Buffalo Jordan L'Hirondelle one another - by utilizing our abilities and embracstrong, you have to be sober. You need to watch what you ing our philosophies to share, to care, to communicate, to eat, you need daily exercise and most important you need treat one another with mutual respect - that we can move to look after your spirit.” forward to a better life together.” Buffalo confided that “during the past three days here in Elder Marilyn Buffalo, CEO for the Nechi Institute, Edmonton I have met with all the Alberta Chiefs (at a spoke to the crowd and began by saying, “as a former south side meeting). It’s a struggle with all the issues that executive member with the Native Women’s Association we have to deal with when it comes to child welfare, of Canada I cannot tell you just how proud I am today for health and education. We never have enough money to do your health, your strength, your courage, your sobriety and the work we do.” the life-changing choices you have made and that will Buffalo received the support of the Chiefs at a meeting carry you on to a very powerful journey. Get ready - in south Edmonton and also spoke with federal Health because life is final!” Minister Jane Philpott. No commitment was forthcoming She went on to note that without good health, life is hard from government and Buffalo took the opportunity to to enjoy. remind those in attendance to consider all the issues before “In order to enjoy, you casting their votes next year. have to be healthy,” she “We have two elections next year,” Buffalo noted. “One stressed. “If you want to be Continued on page 19
December, 2018
Alberta Native News
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It's more than a colouring book! by John Copley A series of colouring books and calendars is now available that promotes reconciliation through art, participation and education. . Colouring It Forward is a social enterprise; part of it is a business (Colouring It Forward Inc) and the other part is a not-for-profit organization (CIF Reconciliation Society). “Colouring it Forward began as a series of colouring books,” explained founder Diana Frost, who launched her enterprise just two years ago. “I worked with two Indigenous artists and an Elder. The intent is to share the beautiful things, to create books that heal and books that teach, books that highlight Indigenous culture, pay respect to traditional values and honour the wisdom, words and teachings by the Elders.” Colouring it Forward’s purpose is to advance education on Indigenous issues, art, language and culture through a grassroots approach. The CIF Reconciliation Society works in collaboration with other organizations, as they recently did with Kamotaan Consulting and Making Treaty 7 Cultural Society “to deliver art-based workshops and events that provide education on Indigenous ways of knowing and promote healing and reconciliation” between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. “In the news we learn a lot about the 60s Scoop, the residential schools, the missing and murdered women, girls and men and more and for the average person there’s not a lot of ways to get a balanced view - because there are a lot of positives out there too. It will be hard to get to reconciliation if all the people ever learn about is all the awful stuff. There has to be a balance. Working with the Elders, they told me that telling positive stories would be a good thing, a positive thing that will help people heal. If people learn about the good things it will help them to better appreciate Indigenous people if they understand there’s another side to the coin. The teachings in the books and in the stories are all positive and intended to provide a positive meditative learning experience.” Colouring it Forward currently has four different beautifully designed colouring books available; two of them, Discover Blackfoot Nation Art and Wisdom and Discover Northern Dene Nation Art and Wisdom, have also been translated into French. The others include Cree
Colouring it Forward promotes reconciliation through art, participation, and education. Through a series of books and calendars, Colouring it Forward has created a gathering place for Canada’s Indigenous people to share their stories and their art, and to build a community based on mutual love and respect. Visit colouringitforward.com/join-us/ Toll-free: 1-855-500-1166 cell: (403) 921-3534
email: diana@colouringitforward.com /colouringitforward @colouringitforward
Nation Art and Wisdom Colouring Book and Onagottay Heart and Wisdom Ojibway (Anishinaabe) Colouring Book. “The books can be enjoyed by both kids and adults,” Frost assured, and noted that school teachers are among the biggest buyers. “Teaching reconciliation is quite difficult for those who haven’t experienced the trauma of residential schools and because these books are based on the teachings of the Elders, who also participate in their creation, they are being accepted and becoming popular in the schools. The colouring books are filled with stories, the bios are all there with explanations about who the Elders are, who the artists are and much more. The most recent book to hit the stands, Onagottay Heart and Wisdom Ojibway (Anishinaabe) Colouring Book has just been released and it comes via good karma. “Onagottay (Elder Morris Blanchard) approached me to make the book,” she explained. “That was a different thing for me. I'm used to finding artists and then an Elder, but this was different; it was so streamlined.” As it turns out one of the Elder’s colleagues was in Yellowknife and found one of her Dene books and brought it home to him. “When he saw it, he said ‘oh this is perfect.’ He liked the format, the feel, the artwork and the wisdom. The books are intended to honour the artwork and the wisdom; I want to make products that people will think are beautiful, valuable and cherished. That’s the intent with the books and the calendar, the cards - to honour the culture. The feedback I’ve been getting indicates that we’re on the right path.” Colouring it Forward’s extraordinary 16-month calendar is filled with knowledge and beauty and with the turn of every leaf comes an artistically unique piece of Indigenous art - in full colour and created by Chipewyan, Cree, Saulteaux, Nuu-chah-nulth, Mohawk, Algonquin, Blackfoot, Stoney, Mohawk, Inuvialuit and Métis artists. “The calendar is beautiful inside and out,” said Frost, noting that “this is the culmination of the creative work and exceptional talent of the 14 different artists and Elder who created it. Not only does it showcase amazing artwork, it also includes important dates for Indigenous
peoples, honours Indigenous heroes and provides educational pieces on some of the issues faced by Indigenous peoples as well as calls to action for reconciliation and much more.” The calendar also brings focus to Indigenous heroes and UNDRIP. One dollar from each calendar sold will be donated to Indspire, an Indigenous-led charitable organization working on improving Indigenous education nationwide. Diana Frost is an Algonquin Métis artist and entrepreneur with a new and promising vision of tomorrow and though she’s always been an advocate for Indigenous issues and people, this new venture - now a full-time job - came about through an act of fate. An artist, musician and author by night, Frost was an engineer by day and that’s how she earned her pay. When she was laid off a couple of years ago as a result of the plummeting Canadian economy, she had a vision and turned it into a reality. For more than 16 years she worked on engineering projects in places like Colombia, Peru, China, and Rwanda. Continued on page 13
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Alberta Native News
December, 2018
Elders fine-tune Kihciy Askiy proposal for Edmonton’s river valley By Terry Lusty (ANNews) – It’s happening! Finally, Edmonton will get its long-awaited sacred space. The end of October saw another Grand Council of Elders Gathering as dozens of Edmonton Elders and spiritual leaders met and discussed further plans for Kihciy Askiy (Sacred Earth), a 2.5-hectare plot of city land that runs alongside Whitemud Freeway and Fox Drive (by the old Fox Farms site) just south of the entrance to Fort Edmonton Park. Over many years there were expressions at the community level of the need for a wilderness-type setting where the Indigenous community could conduct traditional and ceremonial practices. The message couldn’t be louder or clearer – the people wanted a sizeable space that was mostly green space and could accommodate sweat lodges, tipis, medicine gardens, cultural teachings, gatherings for ceremonial events and round dances, and more. But what they really wanted, was not only special space but green areas removed from the concrete, steel and neon lights of the city. Land that had some cleanliness about itself. The river valley area of Whitemud Park, near Fort Edmonton seemed an ideal and logical compromise. It is also part of the river valley where Indigenous people met and gathered in more historic times – possibly because the vicinity also possessed yellow ochre that was much used for ceremonial purposes. It’s been some years – about a dozen – since Native Counselling Services of Alberta (NCSA) took the matter to heart and partnered with the city of Edmonton to put the wheels in motion. Several Elders were approached, jumped into the mix and the ball started to roll - a bit slowly at first but the momentum was forward. Additional Elders were sought out and asked to participate in circles that addressed a huge variety of associated elements – site location and management, usages, programming, security, permanent
structures on site, keeping the site ‘clean’, zero tolerance issues, staff training, protocols, etc. At times, the Grand Council of Elders numbered up to four dozen individuals. However, the ‘inner circle,’ consisted of a select core group of Will Campbell (left) and chairman Howard Mustus address the Grand Council of several individuals. includElders on October 30 while planning phases of the Kihciy Askiy (Sacred Earth) ing Ron Arcand, Wilson project in Edmonton's river valley. Bearhead, Wil Campbell, Fred Campiou, Doris some closure and provide an opportunity to reinstate and Daychief, Emil Desrochers, Joe Ground, Annabelle recognize the culture and traditions long lost when Kootenay, Beatrice Morin and the chairman, Howard swallowed up by the Indian Residential School system. Mustus. Because this also touches on the reconciliation process, This core body were the basic ‘movers and shakers’ the doors to Kihciy Askiy will be open to all people who, in cooperation with NCSA, met and dialogued with regardless of ethnicity and religion. It will be a place the city to move the concept forward. where non-Indigenous people can learn more about As early as 2006 Edmonton City Council had a proposal Indigenous cultures and traditions. from the Edmonton Indigenous Resource Council City Council approved two million dollars in its 2015 – requesting the development of a permanent, yet somewhat 2018 capital budget deliberations for the design and natural site, where Indigenous traditions and learning construction of the first phase of Kihciy Askiy. experiences could transpire. The old Fox Farm house, barns and corrals which the Three years later the Whitemud Area Integrated city had acquired back in 1968 were demolished, Concept was formally amended to incorporate the concept hazardous material minimized, and the site was regraded. of what became referred to as Kihciy Askiy – Cree for In May of 2015, dozens of Edmonton area Elders Sacred Earth. responded to calls from NCSA, gathering at the old Fox No financial support was forthcoming until 2014 – the Farm location as the Grand Council of Elders. year of the 7th and final National TRC Gathering, that was The city approved an additional half-million dollars in held in Edmonton. Politically, the time couldn’t have been 2016 to develop the access road to the site and another better. Edmonton had a mayor in Don Iveson who was $1.26 million to complete Phase 1 through its committed to the reconciliation process and what better Supplemental Capital Budget Adjustment. way to ‘walk the talk’ than to support a major endeavour Continued on page 14 like this that would aid in repairing old wounds, bring
December, 2018
Alberta Native News
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Amiskwaciy Academy celebrates the season by John Copley On December 13, the Edmonton-based Amiskwaciy Academy held the last of its 2018 special occasion and seasonal feasts with more than 250 guests partaking in the school’s Christmas dinner. Students Sean Collins and Jacqueline McDaniel were emcees for the annual Christmas Feast. The students acknowledged school Elders Francis Whiskeyjack, Jeanette Lean, Don Langford, and Leith Campbell and remembered Late Elders Joe P. Cardinal and Marge Friedel before welcoming EPSB School Trustees Shelagh Dunn and Bridgit Stirling and Chief Financial Officer Todd Burnstad. Distinguished guests in attendance included the family of the Late Elder Marge Friedel, Ermineskin Cree Nation Chief Craig Makinaw and Rick Carriere and Patrick Garland, both with the Edmonton Oilers Entertainment Group. Community partners attending the Christmas Feast included Métis Child and Family Services, Edmonton Police Services, RCMP, Alberta Aboriginal Services (Louise Hayes), MacEwan University, University of Alberta, Stantec, Edmonton Inn and Nova Hotels. EPSB Trustee Shelagh Dunn (Ward B) said she was honoured to be at Amiskwaciy Academy to enjoy her second Winter Feast, noting, “I am so happy to be here; it is a special time to share, to reflect and to celebrate with one another.” Introduced to the podium, Ermineskin Cree Nation Chief Craig Makinaw told the gathering that he was “honoured to be here once again to participate in another celebration of season and friendship.” He spoke briefly about the celebration of the feast, thanked the sponsors who made it possible, and said he was especially appreciative “of the many sponsors and community partners” who work with Amiskwaciy to ensure that the students are cared for, appreciated and well taught. “As our students move on to higher grades and into post-secondary institutions, the quality education and the personal values that they take away from Amiskwaciy
Academy will help them to achieve their educational goals” and give them a positive start on their individual journeys. Principal Fred Hines called Chief Mackinaw back to the podium where he was presented with an Elder Francis Whiskeyjack thanks Honour Blanket recipient Chief Craig Mackinaw Honour Blanket by as Elders Leith Campbell and Jeanette Lean look on. Amiskwaciy Elders The 2018 school year has been an interesting, upbeat Whiskeyjack, Langford, Lean and Campbell. “This is very beautiful - and warm,” noted Chief and educational experience for everyone at the school, Mackinaw, returning to his table. “This is a very nice particularly for the three new staff members who’ve joined surprise, an unexpected honour and one that I will always the Amiskwaciy family: Mark Walmsley, Gordon Power and Tanya Herbert. cherish.” Amiskwaciy Academy promotes extracurricular Students McDaniel and Collins then announced that they would be calling numbers at random from the tickets activities that students can participate in after school hours. handed out to each person as they arrived to join the school Student understand the importance of being a student first feast. More than 20 different ticket holders were presented and athlete second. Sports allow each student to gain with a carpentry shop-made reindeer dressed for valuable life skills such as leadership, sportsmanship and Christmas and ready to be enjoyed either inside or outside how to work together as a team; they will carry these values with them upon graduation. the house. “Volleyball season was once again both fun and Guests were treated to a scrumptious Amiskwaciy kitchen cooked meal that included turkey, ham, potatoes, successful for both of the school’s male and female teams veggies, bannock and buns and delicious cake and and the Seniors Boys and Senior Girls basketball teams are already underway,” noted Amiskwaciy Cultural blueberries. Working extensively and in close contact with on-site Liaison Sherry Bates. “Once a week, we also took our Elders, the school’s administration maintains close Junior High students to Norwood to read to Kindergarten partnerships with the Cree, Stoney and Metis communities and Grade 1 students. The Academy also completed its in and around the Capital Region. The Academy maintains WEE Read Program at Norwood School this month. Earlier this year the Junior High Students enjoyed an an on-going cultural exchange program with several exciting opportunity to visit the new Royal Alberta Edmonton-area Elementary Schools. “Our Path - Our Life - Our Spirit, this vision of Museum. On December 17 the school was involved in Amiskwaciy Academy,” noted Principal Hines, “is to drumming at Boyle Street while Santa joined Amiskwaciy honour the Aboriginal community and reflect its cultures, staff and students to deliver a great Christmas Drum, hats, values, ancestral knowledge and traditions in achieving scarves, socks, mitts and some delicious homemade cookies and candy canes. excellence in education.”
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Alberta Native News
December, 2018
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Volume 35, Number 12, December 2018 ISSN #08294135 www.albertanativenews.com EDITOR: Deborah Shatz ADVERTISING: Dan Moser 780-421-7966 Alberta Native News is published monthly for distribution to Native Bands and Metis Settlements across Alberta, Saskatchewan, British Columbia and Northwest Territories. All rights reserved. No part of this newspaper may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. The opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the Editor. Alberta Native News is published by 320754 Alberta Ltd. For change of address, please send both old and new addresses. We welcome your stories, pictures, artwork and opinions. Please send anything you would like to have published to our office.
Treaty 8 Grand Chief slams Jason Kenney and UCP UCP leader Jason Kenney’s recent remarks about selling off crown lands if his party wins the next provincial election, demonstrated his total lack of understanding about government’s duty to consult with Indigenous peoples and his lack of regard for Treaty Rights in Alberta, says Treaty 8 First Nations Grand Chief Arthur Noskey. During an opposition panel at the Rural Municipalities of Alberta (RMA) fall convention in Edmonton, Kenney said that the UCP would consider selling off a swath of Crown land in Peace River Country, about 488 kilometres northwest of Edmonton, to help plug Alberta’s economic hole. “It’s something I’m seriously looking at … to generate some Crown asset sales to help deal with our deficit, but also as a way to grow the economy by turning what is currently unproductive land into productive agricultural land,” Kenney told media after the meeting. Grand Chief Noskey slammed the UCP leader for his remarks and penned a statement that was read by Alberta’s Indigenous-Crown Relations Minister in the Legislative Assembly on December 6, 2018. In the statement, he commended the NDP for its recent work with the Indigenous peoples of Alberta and provided some background information on the history of Treaty in Alberta. He wrote, “Treaty No. 8 was agreed to in 1899 between the Dene, Beaver and Cree Peoples and the Crown, Queen Victoria. This Treaty agreement ensured that our ways of life would continue as if we never entered Treaty. In 1930 the Alberta Natural Resource Transfer Act was passed without Free, Prior, Informed Consent of the peoples of Treaty No. 8, in contradiction of the Treaty agreement with the Crown.” Grand Chief Noskey explained that finally in 2016, Treaty 8 First Nations of Alberta signed a Protocol Agreement with the Province of Alberta “to establish a mutually productive relationship based on collaboration and cooperation, whereas the Government of Alberta respects the Treaty and Aboriginal rights of the First Nations of Treaty 8 as recognized and affirmed by Section 35 of the Constitution Act.” He expressed concern however, that Jason Kenney in his UCP platform announced plans to “generate some Crown asset sales to help deal with our deficit” if he becomes Premier of Alberta. Noskey wrote: “In 2005, the Supreme Court in Mikisew ruled that there is a Duty to Consult First Nations. Mikisew Cree First Nation is a Treaty 8 First Nation and perhaps Jason Kenney and his United Conservative Party should understand and respect our Treaty and the relationship with the Crown before making such
statements. “We are challenging the Province’s assumption of crown lands. The Treaty people have always had a different position on this. These lands have always been our treasury, our food source, and our pharmacy since time immemorial and are assumed to be unproductive by a man who hopes to be the next Premier of Alberta. “When it comes to what is considered Crown land, it is critical that any Government understands Treaty. When government looks ahead, does it plan for the next 7 generations as our First Nations do? Or does it see an environment occupied with nothing but Industrial Development? I wonder if Jason Kenney’s intent, if he wins, is to undermine Treaty by dealing on things that affect Treaty without consulting First Nations? The Grand Chief commended the NDP government. He wrote, “I acknowledge that the Province of Alberta is finally recognizing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and I extend my sincere gratitude to Premier Notley for her leadership and commitment towards its implementation. An important part of that Declaration is Article 19 that refers to “Free, prior and informed consent.” “Good work has been accomplished by this government and I commend the Premier and the Ministers for their work in resolving the land claim of the Lubicon Lake Band. To complete an 85-year process in their short time in office is an accomplishment to be commended. “However, there is a current outstanding land claim settlement with the Beaver First Nation that includes the lands as mentioned by Jason Kenney. This goes to show how uninformed Jason Kenney and his United Conservative party is, when it comes to the current processes and issues at the tables.” Grand Chief Noskey concluded his statement by reminding government that “The Treaty 8 First Nations in Alberta are not opposed to economic development, pipelines or beneficial opportunities within the oil and gas sector. We are always open to dialogue regarding sustainable resource development that ensures the protection of our Treaty and Inherent Rights and our way of life.” Minister Feehan said that he was honoured to read the Grand Chief’s statement and noted that the current NDP government takes Indigenous consultation very seriously. “On our side of the house we respect Indigenous consultation and we don’t take the word lightly,” he said, “and we recognize that past governments have neglected to give it the respect it deserved. Continued on page 16
December, 2018
Alberta Native News
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Full implementation of Jordan’s Principle in Alberta The Alberta government is taking another landmark step toward reconciliation by signing the memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Jordan’s Principle with the First Nations Health Consortium – made up of 11 Nations – and the Government of Canada. This new trilateral MOU creates a First Nations-driven process where the consortium and the federal and provincial governments work together to coordinate services in Alberta, address gaps and share information, so that when a child needs support there are no unnecessary delays. “Every child deserves the same access to supports, no matter where they live,” stated Alberta Minister of Children’s Services, Danielle Larivee. “Whether it’s a car seat, a splint, speech therapy or orthodontic surgery, addressing these needs in a fair and timely manner makes a huge, positive difference in the lives of children and their families. This is a key piece in our public action plan on child intervention and part of the promise we made to Alberta’s Indigenous Peoples to take action, address gaps that have been ignored for too long, and move towards true reconciliation.” Last month, Jane Philpott, Minister of Indigenous Services, along with the signatory Chiefs from the First Nations Health Consortium and Minister Larivee, signed the MOU committing for the full implementation of Jordan's Principle in Alberta. This MOU on Jordan's Principle is the first of its kind between the federal government, provincial government and First Nations. This allows the Government of Canada, the First Nations Health Consortium and Government of Alberta to address gaps, and share information ensuring that children and families in Alberta are receiving the supports they need – including mental health supports, medical equipment, speech therapy, educational supports, and more. “This MOU is a significant step in Canada’s reconciliation journey,” remarked Sen. Patty LaBoucane-Benson, member of Alberta’s Ministerial Panel on Child Intervention. “It will help ensure that Indigenous children and youth in Alberta can access the health, social and educational supports they need, when they need them. It should provide a clearer process to ensure First Nations children can get the help they need.” In 2016, the federal government announced funding to allow Jordan's Principle to be implemented across Canada. This funding ensures timely access to necessary products, services and supports that address the needs of First Nations children, regardless of whether they live on- or off-reserve. Since 2016, $33 million in funding has been provided for implementation of Jordan's Principle in Alberta. "This first-of-its-kind trilateral agreement sits at the heart of what Jordan's Principle is meant to achieve,” stated Minister Philpott. “This ensures that all orders of Government and First Nation partners are working together to support First Nations children and families in getting the supports and services they need, regardless of where they live, and without jurisdictional disputes. I want to thank the First Nations Health Consortium and the Province of Alberta for this step forward in fully implementing Jordan's Principle in Alberta."
“This MOU is significant because our Alberta First Nations have come together to ensure a First Nations driven program is set in place to meet the needs of First Nations children throughout our province,” added Barry Philips, Acting Director, First Nations Consortium. “We Health continuously work together honouring and advocating for the needs of our First Nation people. We are passionate about our role in improving the lives of our children and families." Jordan's Principle is named in memory of Jordan River Anderson. He was a young boy from Norway House Cree Nation in Manitoba, who was born with multiple disabilities. The federal and provincial governments couldn’t agree who should pay for Jordan’s home-based care. As a result, Jordan remained in hospital, dying there at age five. Nationally, from July 2016 to September 30, 2018, there have been more than 165,000 requests for products, services and supports approved for First Nations children under Jordan's Principle, including 8129 requests approved in Alberta for the same timeframe. This includes mental health supports, medical equipment, speech therapy, educational supports, and more. In Alberta, the federal and provincial governments and First Nations all deliver programs and services with a variety of eligibility criteria. This makes it critical that everyone works together to prevent gaps in services. Jordan’s Principle is meant to ensure that First Nations children, youth and families do not experience denials, delays or disruptions in supports due to conflicts between levels of government over payment for services. The 11 partner Nations of the First Nations Health Consortium are: Bigstone Cree Nation, Loon River First Nation, Lubicon Lake Band, Peerless Trout First Nation, Whitefish Lake #459 First Nation, Woodland Cree First Nation, Samson Cree Nation, Louis Bull Tribe, Montana First Nation, Ermineskin Cree Nation and Siksika Nation. If a First Nations child is not receiving necessary services and supports, caregivers can call the Jordan’s Principle hotline: 1-855-JP-CHILD (1-855-572-4453), open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They can also contact the First Nations Health Consortium at 1844-558-8748 or visit the consortium’s website — abfnhc.com — for more information.
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Alberta Native News
December, 2018
New legal supports announced for sexual violence survivors in Alberta (December 2018) – Free legal advice is being provided to survivors of sexual violence to help on their path to healing and support greater access to the justice system. “For anyone who’s endured the trauma of a sexual assault, trying to figure out where to turn to for help can be scary and overwhelming,” stated Danielle Larivee, Alberta’s Minister of Status of Women. “Helping survivors of sexual violence understand their legal options is an important step in empowering them to move forward on their healing journey. I’m grateful to the Elizabeth Fry Society and participating lawyers for their partnership in providing new legal resources to people who need those services the most.” On December 5, 2018, the Government of Alberta provided a $700,000 grant to the Elizabeth Fry Society of Edmonton for the pilot initiative. “For years, we have been hearing from survivors of sexual violence who have been sitting with their pain and suffering, not knowing what options are available to them or what they can do to move forward,” remarked Elizabeth Fry Society of Edmonton Executive Director Toni Sinclair. “This program is about providing legal advice from a rights-based approach, and we hope to help as many folks as possible who have experienced sexual violence. We continue to be amazed by their courage and bravery.” As part of their involvement in this project, participating lawyers have received specialized training in traumainformed practice, gender-based and intersectional approaches, and Indigenous historical trauma. The project offers support, resources and referrals to help sexual violence survivors better understand their options as they seek healing and justice. The three-year pilot program is being rolled out in municipalities served by the Elizabeth Fry Society, including Edmonton, Red Deer, Stony Plain, Morinville, St. Albert, Sherwood Park, Fort Saskatchewan, Ponoka, Camrose, Wetaskiwin, and a number of Indigenous communities. The project is open to adult survivors of all genders who have experienced sexual violence in Alberta, regardless of
how much time has passed since the incident. Survivors wishing to learn more can email legal_advice@efryedmonton.ab.ca or call 780784-2213. The following day, December 6, marked the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. “Twenty-nine years ago, 14 women were murdered at l’École Polytechnique de Montréal. It was a heartbreaking loss for their families and loved ones, and it was an incredible loss for all of Canada,” stated Minister Larivee. “Violence against women and girls is still too common in Alberta and in an age of social media, we don’t have to look far to find examples of gender-based hate levelled at people we know. “It is up to each of us to stand up to that hatred. We can do it by challenging demeaning comments, providing support for victims of abuse and doing what we can to shift our conversations towards respect, equality and consent. And we can do it by treating our friends, families, neighbours and strangers with the love and respect that they deserve. “Today is not only a day to remember. It is an opportunity to envision a future in which every Albertan lives free from fear of violence. A future that allows all Albertans – regardless of gender – to pursue their dreams and push boundaries without fear. “I call on Albertans to stand together to end all forms of violence against women and girls.” To help promote the prevention of family violence, Alberta Council of Women’s Shelters (ACWS) has announced that special guest speaker, Terry Crews will be speaking at a public event at the Shaw Conference Centre in Edmonton on February 20, 2019. Crews is an actor, activist and former NFL player. Crews is one of the “silence breakers” of the #MeToo movement and a 2017 TIME Magazine Person of the Year. He is using his platform as a Hollywood heavyweight to speak up about the role that men play in creating a safer world for women and girls. Crews’ story is one of
triumph and transformation. Having overcome a traumatic childhood and having to confront many personal and professional challenges, he speaks about his experiences and inspires audiences to overcome fear, be honest, do the work and live life to its highest potential. “Men and boys play a unique role in the prevention of violence against women and Terry Crews is on a mission to challenge modern day masculinity and what manhood really means,” says Christie Lavan, Program Developer at the ACWS. “He is the perfect person to lead us in a bold conversation about how each one of us plays our part in creating safer communities and ultimately a better world.” In a video released in advance of his Edmonton visit, Crews said, “I’ve been sharing my story and talking to people all over the world about what it means to be a man, and how we can change things for ourselves and for the women and girls we care about. Learning about this has changed my life for the better. Now is the time for men, young and old to define for themselves what being a man is all about.” All proceeds from this memorable event will support programs and services of the Alberta Council of Women’s Shelters. Where to go for help Call 911 if you or someone you know is in immediate danger. Call the Family Violence Info Line at 310-1818 for 24hour advice and support if you suspect that someone is experiencing family violence. There are 12 sexual assault centres across Alberta that provide counselling and crisis support, as well as 24-hour support and information lines: 780-423-4102 (Edmonton) 403-237-5888 (Calgary)
December, 2018
Alberta Native News
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Moonstone Creations offers authentic Indigenous art in YYC by John Copley Moonstone Creation is a Native galley and gift shop in Calgary, that is owned and operated by Yvonne Jobin, a Cree First Nation woman with a flair for business and a unique understanding of her Indigenous heritage. Jobin operates her 1219-10th Avenue SE store with co-owner and daughter Amy Willier, an artist and designer who is also Moonstone Creation’s Sales Manager. Entrepreneurship, noted Jobin, wasn’t her first calling. Finance and business were her forte and she spent several years working in the corporate world of finance and banking before experiencing an inner vision that helped her take a new and more important path into the future. “It was just a feeling I had within that told me it was time for me to do something to help preserve and champion Native cultural arts.” she explained. “When I started doing this (crafting/designing) in the early 1980s the people weren’t drawn to it - beadwork and other
Leatherwork available at Moonstone Creations
cultural art forms were on standby; they were dying arts.” Jobin enrolled in the Native Cultural Arts program at the Alberta Vocational Centre in Grouard “and before the program was completed, I was offered a teaching job,” she smiled. “I’ve been creative all my life. I think it’s in my DNA and because of this, and the training I received by attending vocational school, I was Yvonne Jobin and Amy Willier able to do some custom work and make a few extra dollars.” Jobin. “We supply art materials. We also offer a variety of As a result, Jobin was able to raise her children without classes that help to promote Indigenous culture and the need for daycare. increase interest and ability for beginning artists and crafts Before moving to Calgary in 1994 she specialized in people. Keep an eye on our website for more information teaching further education classes throughout Peace River about classes for 2019.” country. Today, she, along with Amy and employee (her The classes include instruction in beading, porcupine niece) Kim Brothers continue to teach specialty classes at quill work, moose and caribou hair tufting, drum making, places that include SAIT, the University of Calgary, the Medicine Wheel teachings and more. Next year the Alberta College of Art and Design and corporate Calgary. classes may also include such things as moccasin making, Yvonne and Amy run a successful business that deals fish scale art and dream catcher making. only in authentic Indigenous art. Along with showcasing Native bags and pouches, drums and rattles, a variety of Yvonne’s traditional artwork, the gallery represents many clothing, skin creams and other goods are available all the First Nations and Metis artists. Fine art, pottery, carvings, time; custom work can also be arranged by contacting turquoise and Westcoast jewelry, beadwork, leatherwork Moonstone Creations with your ideas. Corporate gifting is and authentic, locally-made gifts can be found in this another specialty at Moonstone Creations. unique gallery. “We can put together unique gift packages for your “We actually create most of the goods we have for sale valued corporate clients, ranging from traditional in the store,” explained Jobin, “but we do buy quality medicine bags to drums, rattles, and framed specialty art,” products made by other Indigenous artists. When it comes assured Jobin. “These corporate gifts can be used to to larger and more expensive crafts, items such as large celebrate a birthday, a promotion, special recognition and sculptures, we take them in on consignment. I hire contract many other occasions.” bead workers on a regular basis and we buy items such as Yvonne Jobin is an educated and multitalented artist and jewelry, ceramics, pottery, fine art, paintings and more and designer well known for her brilliantly designed, customas a result Naive crafters are able to sell their work to the made clothing, including beautiful vests and jackets for public.” men, eye-catching dresses for women and much more. Moonstone Creation is more than just a store that sells “All of my jackets,” she noted, “are created from Indigenous art and provides opportunities for Indigenous smoked tanned hide and prepared in the traditional Native crafters. Continued on page 17 “We have an array of products and services,” noted
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Alberta Native News
December, 2018
ACR Celebrates Excellence in Resource Leadership EDMONTON, AB – The Alberta Chamber of Resources (ACR) has announced its 2018 Resource Leadership and Indigenous Resource Leadership award recipients, to be presented at the annual awards banquet in February 2019. Since 1977, ACR has recognized an individual, organization or project that demonstrates commitment to the organization’s mission of providing leadership for the strategic and responsible development of Alberta’s natural resources. The recipients of the 2018 awards are Jessica Vandenberghe and Steve Williams. ACR’s Indigenous Leadership Award is presented to Jessica Vandenberghe, Indigenous Community Consultant and Project Engineer at Urban Systems Ltd., in recognition of the extensive efforts she has undertaken outside of her formal work to promote a better understanding of education with Indigenous peoples; particularly Indigenous youth. Vandenberghe says she has been fortunate in her life to have been adopted into a very inclusive, hardworking family that taught her how to be independent and to have a love of learning that values community and relationships. This ultimately allowed her to become the well-respected and known Professional Engineer she is today. Raised as a farm girl in northern Alberta, Vandenberghe, obtained two engineering degrees from the University of Alberta – a Bachelor’s in Chemical Engineering Co-op with Computer Process Control specialization and a Master’s degree in Chemical and Mining Engineering. Working for just under 10 years in the oil sands industry as a Senior Research Engineer, she holds several patents in bitumen extraction having worked on many pilot plants. Vendenberghe decided to pursue her passion for youth outreach and gender diversity by taking a position with the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA) in 2012 as the Director of Outreach and Product Services, later moving to the regulatory position of Director of Enforcement and Permits. Vandenberghe worked with the provincial government, other regulators, and nationally on many projects
including the Managing Transitions document, the EnGenious.ca video game, the Legislative Review Project, and improved the Permit to Practice process, disciplinary process, and the compliance case work for title and license protection. She has since decided to follow her passion for growing strong, vibrant communities and now works as an Indigenous Community Consultant and Project Engineer for Urban Systems Ltd., a civil engineering consulting company. Her leadership helps any community, but primarily Indigenous communities, work through the governance, policy, legality, communication, and planning to help bring the community vision to fruition. She is a single mom of two children and strongly believes in diversity and inclusion, continual learning and works to be a positive role model and influence for the Engineering Profession. “My proudest accomplishment has been working to influence more inclusive workplaces to help change policy and give me a chance to influence change,” says Vandenberghe, “I am truly honoured to be receiving this award from the ACR; it tells me someone is listening and that itself, means the world to me.” The ACR Leadership Award is presented to Steve Williams, Chief Executive Officer of Suncor Energy, in recognition of his extensive career in building Canada’s energy sector. As a strong advocate for sustainable development in the energy industry, Williams is being recognized for his numerous contributions including serving as a founding member of Canada’s Oil Sands Innovation Alliance (COSIA), a member of the National Roundtable on the Environment and the Economy and as a member of the advisory board of Canada’s Ecofiscal Commission. Williams has received the Peter Lougheed Award for Leadership in Public Policy from Canada’s Public Policy Forum and has previously been named Canadian CEO of the year by the Globe & Mail, Report on Business magazine. He has recently been selected to receive the 2019 Canadian Business Leader Award by the University of Alberta School of Business. “It’s an honour to be recognized through this
The ARC Indigenous Leadership Award recipient is Jessica Vandenberghe, Indigenous Community Consultant and Project Engineer at Urban Systems Ltd.
award,” said Williams. “Alberta is home to world-class resources that have the potential to deliver unparalleled economic prosperity to Albertans and Canadians. Our industry is keenly aware that development of these valuable natural resources has to address important environmental and social considerations. This award is about leadership when it comes to ensuring a sustainable approach to resource development. I’d like to extend my appreciation to all those who have shared that focus with me and with Suncor over the years – it’s a testament to collaboration and the good things that happen when we work together.” Both awards will be presented at ACR’s Annual Awards Banquet being held on the evening of February 1st, 2019 at the Shaw Conference Centre in Edmonton. The Alberta Chamber of Resources is a member-driven organization involved in resource development in Alberta. Members include mining, energy and forestry sector companies – those that create resourcebased products, and those who provide the diverse infrastructure, products and services essential to resource development. The organization has been pivotal in helping advance responsible development of Alberta’s natural resource base since its inception in 1936.
Committed to serving Indigenous Communities in Canada since 1975 CALGARY Suite 101, 2716 Sunridge Way NE 403-291-1193 calgary@urbansystems.ca EDMONTON Suite 200, 10345-105 St. NW 780-430-4041 edmonton@urbansystems.ca
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December, 2018
Alberta Native News
11
Richard Van Camp receives a CODE Burt Honour Book Award by John Copley The front page at burtaward.com shines with the smiling face of Cherie Dimaline, author of the book, Marrow Thieves and the winner of the 2018 CODE Burt Award for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Young Adult Literature. 2018 Honour Book awards recipients included Fire Song by Adam Garnet Jones (Annick Press) and The Journey Forward: Two Novellas on Reconciliation by Richard Van Camp and Monique Gray Smith (McKellar and Martin). Thousands of copies of these three winning titles will now be distributed to youth via this unique literary award’s book purchase and distribution program. The CODE Burt Award is a literary award and readership initiative that recognizes excellence in locally authored literature for young adults, ages 12-18. The objective of the prize is to champion literacy, build language skills, and foster the love and habit of reading by ensuring that young people have access to high-quality, culturally relevant, and engaging reading materials. The initiative was launched in 2008 when CODE, with the help of Canadian philanthropist William Burt and the Literary Prizes Foundation, established the Burt Award for African Young Adult Literature. The program has since expanded into various countries, including Canada, Ghana, Kenya, Ethiopia and the Caribbean. "I will never forget this day, meeting the students and teachers and receiving the 2018 CODE Burt Honour Book Award,” stated Van Camp in comments following the awards ceremony. “It was one of my highest achievements because I can still hear the morning prayer. I can still hear and feel the songs and drums. I can still see the smiles and feel the pride in the room for everyone who was here. I am proud to stand with Cherie Demaline and Adam Garnett Jones. I am a huge fan of their work and I can't wait to see what happens next year for the new voices that will be honoured in such a sweet way.’ Richard Van Camp is a proud member of the Dogrib (Tlicho) Nation at Fort Smith, NWT. He is a graduate of the En'owkin International School of Writing, the University of Victoria's Creative Writing BFA Program, and the Master's Degree in Creative Writing at the University of British Columbia. He began his career on the writing staff of the CBC TV series, North of 60. He’s published several books - short story collections that are set primarily in the fictionalized community of Fort Simmer. In addition, Van Camp has published poems, educational graphic novels and several children’s books. Described as being “an internationally renowned storyteller and best-selling author,” Van Camp was gracious enough to pause for a brief interview with Alberta Native News. The question answer session went like this: When did you start writing? Did the interest come early in life or as an adult? “Great question! I was always a reader, a listener and very much in love with pop culture. I'm a child of the 80's so GI Joe, Star Wars, Terminator, Predator, Jason and Freddy were part of my childhood. They were my uncles (Wah!).” Why did you chose this topic and what messages did you deliver in the book. “Monique Gray Smith and I have two books together bound by a single theme: Truth and Reconciliation. Our publisher is McKellar and Martin and this is the first flip book in the series "The Journey Forward." My side of the book is "When We Play Our Drums, They Sing!". It's a story about a 12-year-old boy named Dene Cho. He has a lot of questions and anger about Residential Schools and the curriculum he's having to suffer through daily. He wants more for himself. Like me, he's starving to learn his culture and language and, after a surprising turn of events with his principal, he's given three days to go find what he wants to learn and return and speak to the teachers and principal of his school and give the presentation of a lifetime. He decides to go see the blind medicine man Snowbird. Oh, it's a great book. Monique's book is "Lucy and Lola" and we both dug so deep to explore the issues surrounding Residential Schools that are affecting both of our families, our communities, etc.” How many times have you been nominated for writing awards? “It's always such an honour to be nominated for an award. Winning is fun, but it's not the most important thing to me because when I receive a message via Facebook or through my site, www.richardvancamp.com with
someone writing to thank me, that's the magic that makes me soar. To know that families are reading my baby books to their little ones, that's the sweetness for me. To know that folks are still moved by The Lesser Blessed or any of my four short story collections or to see youth reading my comics and laughing or really being swept away, that's all the soul medicine I need to keep going. As well, to work with my heroes like Julie Flett, George Littlechild, Scott Henderson, Anita Doron, Carla Ulrich, Brent Kaulback, Steve Sanderson, Zoe Hopkins, Kelvin Redvers, Chris Auchter-- to work with such great editors, directors, producers and publishers, my life is fantastic.” What are you most proud of?
Author Richard Van Camp
“I'm just so proud to have known great Elders like Irene Sanderson, Maria Brown, Rosa Mercredi, Helena Continued on page 18
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Alberta Native News
December, 2018
Donna Debassige Brinkworth finds inspiration in nature by John Copley Donna L. Debassige Brinkworth's beautiful painting, entitled Fancy Eagles, is on the cover of this month's Alberta Native News. Donna is an Ojibwe woman, an outdoor enthusiast and artist who was born in Thompson, Manitoba. She moved to Edmonton about 15 years ago. Both of Donna’s parents have passed on but she maintains contact and visits relatives every few years. Her brothers and sisters remain in Manitoba with one sister still residing in Thompson. Brinkworth’s dad Ross Debassige, was a member of the M'Chigeeng First Nation, also known as West Bay, an Ojibwe First Nation located in Ontario’s Manitoulin District; her mother, Florence Beaucage, was born on the Nipissing First Nation near North Bay. Inspired by all of nature’s creatures, and in recent years by the various birds and animals carved on Indigenous totems, Donna’s work focusses primarily on nature’s bountiful wildlife. “I’ve always enjoyed nature - the animals, forests and fauna - and I’ve had a penchant for creating art most of my life, though I didn’t officially begin painting until 2003,” explained Brinkworth, who spoke about “giving back” as another element that gives her inspiration and keeps her creative juices flowing. “I have a reliable income,” she explained, “and as such my passion for painting allows me to donate the profits from my creations to worthy causes, notably to charities and environmental organizations such as The Nature Conservatory and the Wildlife Rehabilitation Society. These donations help to maintain natural spaces for future generations; they also assist animals in need.” During the past year, Brinkworth used those profits to participate in a medical mission in Tanzania, Africa, which provided medical care to isolated communities on Ukerewe Island. Brinkworth said one day she’d like to see her work exhibited, either solo, or as part of a larger exhibition of art. Her work is peaceful and non-confrontational; she enjoys bringing peace and tranquility to her audience. She’s never had aspirations that leaned toward fame and fortune via the art she creates, but she does have a goal. “I want to share my art with others,” she said, “and I’d like it to create a sense of cheerfulness for those who see it and buy it. I hope it will inspire them to take a moment to reflect on nature’s beauty and to do their part in helping to protect our natural spaces.” Select pieces of her work can be seen and purchased on her website at ojibwe-art.ca. The paintings come in all
sizes and shapes and viewers can browse through the nicely created site. There you’ll find an array of bears, eagles, ravens, owls and other wildlife - all created in beautiful acrylic colours, where the viewer can vision the spirit of the creature as it moves about in appreciation for the gift of life it has been given. Most of the paintings on Donna’s website range in sizes that include 4x6, 9x12 and 11x14 inches but she also creates larger pieces. “The largest painting I’ve done to date is also one of my most meaningful,” she explained. "The piece is entitled Seven Eagles and was created earlier this year for an exhibition I had at the St. Albert Art Gallery. It measures 4 by 6 feet and is on a piece of un-stretched canvas; I wanted to create the effect that it was painted on hide.” The artist describes Seven Eagles: “Seven eagles soar into the sky, higher and higher towards the sun. Each one is in a stage of immaturity and the upper ones still have a hint of brown in their head feathers; it takes about four years for an eagle to reach adulthood. This represents the journey that each of us takes towards our own adulthood and working towards a goal, such as graduating from school or obtaining achievements at work. The number seven represents the seven grandfather teachings as well as having a personal significance since there were seven people in my family. “The top has a piece of wood that a beaver carved; it was found at the creekside near my home. To keep a natural look, the painting hangs from a piece of sisal cord.” The online price for Seven Eagles is $5,000 - and includes shipping anywhere in Continental North America. Brinkworth focuses primarily on her online sales but also attends the occasional community art show at local venues. Donna also offers her paintings on eBay. “I’ve had the website since the beginning and it works out quite well,” she noted. “I don’t depend on it to pay the bills, but it is generating an income.” Most of her sales are local and regional/national but at least two of her pieces have been sold overseas (Iceland) and in South America. “I am seeking an opportunity to have my work shown in local galleries and I am getting the word out but so far no takers. I have a few pieces at the Ahnisnabae Art Gallery in Thunder Bay. Louise Thomas runs the gallery, and their website is located at http://www.ahnisnabae-art.com/. I sent a few paintings to her this fall, but they haven’t been added to their online gallery yet, although paintings that I submitted previously are still listed.” Brinkworth’s work is also inspired by other well-known
Artist Donna Debassige Brinkworth with her painting "Seven Eagles."
eastern Canadian Indigenous artists. “I have been exploring the Northeastern Native or Woodlands style and have been inspired by such artists as Norval Morrisseau and Daphne Odjig for a number of years. The style is characterized by energy or spirit lines in or around the beings in the painting. I enjoy the freedom and abstract nature of this style, while still retaining strong links to nature. I particularly enjoy painting bears, ravens, and eagles, but I also enjoy painting all sorts of Canadian wildlife, and occasionally venture out to paint other animals in the world (this is a global age after all!). “I offer my original paintings through this site and generally do not make prints. That way you get an original piece of work and know that there aren't dozens or hundreds of copies floating around out there.” Brinkworth will also accept commission work and is interested in hearing from Alberta Native News readers regarding particular subjects, especially as they relate to nature, wildlife and conservation. Having grown up in northern Manitoba, Donna gained an appreciation of nature and spent much of her free time drawing and experimenting with various media. In her early adulthood, she began to explore painting, eventually developing her own style of Woodlands artwork. She enjoys the freedom of the style and creating images with sharply contrasting colours or smooth blends. “I recently have become inspired by Inuit soapstone sculpture and folklore. Northern Canada inspires much of my work. As a child, my family often went on fishing excursions, woodcutting, and explorations of Canada's pristine wilderness.” As a result, Brinkworth self-studied animals in great detail by reading every book she could find at the local library as a child, and in doing so developed “a great love for birds.” Donna lives with her husband, Lyndon, and her black cat, Maho. To learn more about Donna Brinkworth visit Ojibwe-art.ca. You can also find some of her paintings for sale on Etsy and eBay and interested readers can see her blog at: ojibwe-art.blogspot.com/
December, 2018
Alberta Native News
13
Hiding in Plain Sight: Discovering the Métis Nation in archival records A new exhibit at the Red Deer Museum and Art Gallery offers viewers an opportunity to explore some of the rich history of the Métis Nation. The exhibit, titled Hiding in Plain Sight: Discovering the Métis Nation in the Archival Records of Library and Archives Canada is on display from December 15, 2018 to March 10, 2019. In addition to material from Library and Archives Canada, local Métis citizens have shared their family histories and treasures from personal collections to make the exhibit even more personal and relevant to Central Alberta. A number of items have also been loaned from several institutional collections. A very special opening event will take place on Sunday, January 20 from 2 – 4 pm at the Red Deer Museum + Art Gallery located at 4525 47A Avenue in Red Deer. The afternoon will celebrate Métis Culture, with Special Guest Marilyn Dumont, Metis Poet, and musical performances by Brianna Lizotte, Metis Fiddler. There is no charge to attend, donations will be gratefully accepted. The Red Deer Museum is very pleased to be offering this exhibit. “The story of the Métis people in Central Alberta is one of the keystones of our history,” remarked Lorna Johnson, Executive Director at the Red Deer Museum and Art Gallery. “This exhibition presents a great opportunity to explore Métis culture and history across Canada, and to place our own history into that larger context. We are very grateful to the members of Central Alberta’s Métis community who have helped us to assemble local stories to supplement the touring exhibition.” Library and Archives Canada has a wide variety of archival documents pertaining to the Métis Nation, including textual records, photographs, artwork, maps, stamps and sound recordings. This exhibition explores the
Colouring books
cont. from p 3
“I’m very proud of the work I did while with the Centre for Affordable Water and Sanitation Technology (CAWST). We developed a “train the trainers” model so that by the time I left, I was able to verify I had helped
CIF founder Diana Frost
portrayal of the Métis people - some of whom are “hiding in plain sight” - in reproductions of artworks and photographic collections, and in the accompanying archival descriptions. The exhibition aims to foster a better understanding of the history and culture of the Métis Nation. The exhibit was on display in Saskatoon earlier this year. Karen Shmon, Director of Publishing at the Gabriel Dumont Institute told Eaglefeather News that she viewed the exhibit as an act of reconciliation. She said, “I see the exhibition as affirming our place in history, not just our own history, but the history of Canada. This exhibition is adding to peoples’ awareness of the Métis, our contributions to the country, and the history of our people, something that has been missing for so long in the mainstream narrative.” She further explained that “Library and Archives Canada (LAC) realized that many of their photographic holdings had missing or misinformation as a result of old descriptive practices, creating the impression that there were very few records pertaining to Canada’s second largest Aboriginal group, the Métis. To change this, LAC digitized a large number of those items and researched and updated what they knew would more clearly reflect Métis content. Then it was made into a travelling exhibition so more people could learn from it and enjoy it.” The Métis emerged as a distinct people or nation in the historic Northwest during the course of the 18th and 19th centuries. This area is known as the “historic Métis Nation Homeland,” which includes Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta, extending into the Northwest Territories, British Columbia, Ontario, Minnesota, Montana and North Dakota. The Métis Nation continues to thrive through kinship, 500,000 people get better water by empowering local NGOs to do the work themselves.” During her time with CAWST she became aware of the poor water quality on some Canadian First Nation communities. From that knowledge and her desire to help, plus the yearning to learn more about her roots, the idea for her new project was born. “The Colouring It Forward project began to grow,” notes Frost. “Along with my appreciation and love for the artists’ work, the colouring book series has given me a chance to learn more about First Nations people, culture and wisdom. I also have the opportunity to ‘colour it forward’ with these books by giving a percentage of the proceeds from the books to the artists, Elders and community projects to generate jobs, support small businesses and
Photo courtesy of Library and Archives Canada.
storytelling, material culture, music, dance and song. Supported by the Red Deer Museum + Art Gallery and the Métis community, local Métis citizens have generously shared treasures from their personal collections for the exhibition, along with items loaned from several institutional collections. These mementos document the rich and vibrant history of Métis culture, and enrich the story of the Métis Nation conveyed by the historical material from LAC. Library and Archives Canada recognizes the knowledge and expertise provided by the Métis National Council and the Manitoba Metis Federation in the creation of this exhibition. The exhibition was developed by Library and Archives Canada in collaboration with the Manitoba Metis Federation and the Métis National Council, with the support of the Government of Canada. For more information visit reddeermuseum.com or call (403) 309-8405. encourage higher education on reserves.” To learn more about Diana Frost and Colouring it Forward, visit colouringitforward.com You can also access Colouring it Forward on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
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Alberta Native News
December, 2018
Agreement-In-Principle reached to resolve Indian Day Schools litigation On December 6, 2018, Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, along with Garry McLean, Claudette Commanda, Mariette Buckshot and Roger Augustine, announced that an Agreement-in-Principle has been reached in the Indian Day Schools (McLean) class action. The signing of the Agreement-in-Principle marks an important milestone for thousands of Indigenous people who suffered cultural harm and physical and sexual abuse while attending federally operated Indian Day Schools. The Agreement-in-Principle combines individual compensation for harms associated with attendance at an Indian Day School with a forward-looking investment to support healing, wellness, education, language, culture and commemoration for class members and their communities. Over the past several months, the Government of Canada and counsel for the plaintiffs have been engaged in negotiations to resolve this litigation in a fair, compassionate, and respectful manner that promotes reconciliation and healing. “The mistreatment of Indigenous children is a shameful part of Canada’s history,” noted Minister of CrownIndigenous Relations Carolyn Bennett. “This Agreementin-Principle brings us one step closer to bringing lasting and meaningful resolution and healing to the legacy of Indian Day Schools. Canada is committed to reconciliation and laying the foundation for multigenerational healing and will continue to work with survivors toward righting historical wrongs.” Canada will continue to work with survivors and Indigenous partners to advance reconciliation, promote Indigenous languages and culture, and support the healing and commemoration of those affected by the harmful policies of the past. “Ever since 2006, when the Indian Residential Schools claim was settled, we have been struggling for recognition
Kihciy Askiy
cont. from p 4
By the summer of 2018 the city approved the Environmental Assessment Impact and Site Location Study. The City Design Committee further approved the Development Permit application via Manasc and Isaac Architects Ltd. which was working on the design of Kihciy Askiy.
of the harms suffered by Indian Day School students, who were not part of the settlement,” stated lead plaintiff Garry McLean. “We are relieved that we have reached this milestone. This settlement will benefit all students who attended these federally operated day schools and their families and communities.” Beginning in the 1920s, close to 200,000 Indigenous children attended federally operated Indian Day Schools. Many students who attended these schools experienced trauma associated with cultural harms, and in some cases, physical and sexual abuse at the hands of individuals entrusted with their care. Indian Day Schools were operated separately from the Indian Residential Schools system and were not included in the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement. Unlike residential schools, which removed children from their families and communities, federally operated day schools did not board students overnight. Parties are working to finalize the settlement agreement and will seek court approval through a fairness hearing targeted for late Spring 2019. Key elements of the Agreement-inPrinciple include: individual compensation for harms associated with attendance at an Indian Day School; a $200 million investment to support healing, wellness, education, language, culture and commemoration; and funding for legal fees. “This is definitely good news,” Wiikwemkoong Ogimaa Duke Peltier told the Manitoulin Expositor. His Manitoulin community saw at least six day schools between the 1880s and 1988, when Wiikwemkoong took control of its education system. Ogimaa Peltier was surprised that the process has moved forward so quicky. “It has been expedited a lot sooner than we expected,” he said. “The class action was in late June, early July and It has been a long and gradual process to this point in time and the more recent Grand Council of Elders gathering in late October that fine-tuned a lot of its earlier discussions at the Alfred H. Savage Centre. The approaching year of 2019 will see more of the Phase 1 development of the site in terms of construction and landscaping. A few amenities will be added, like change rooms, washrooms, storage space, parking spaces,
our council had a presentation on it November 26. A week later there was an agreement in principle.” Ogimaa Peltier told media that one of the particularly good things about this process, compared to the Residential School process, is that the firm putting the case forward has insisted on a paper process. “As opposed to appearing before a panel,” he said. “It will be more like the common experience payment process. You will just have to prove you attended one of the Day Schools.” emergency access, tipi areas, four sweat lodges, water sources, stone heating devices, regrading/seeding grassed ceremonial areas, medicine gardens, and more. The Grand Council also developed ethical standards and protocols, especially for ceremonial purposes while providing an understanding of the ceremonial and spiritual needs of the Indigenous community in the Edmonton Capital Region. Should all go “according to Hoyle,” Kihciy Askiy will celebrate an opening sometime in the fall of 2020. That’s just a year and-a-half away.
December, 2018
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
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 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.
Job Opportunity
Continued on page 16
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Alberta Native News
The Sacred Rock
cont. from p 15
December, 2018
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.
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
interests – as federal, provincial and territorial governments and as First Nations governments – are interdependent,” the National Chief said. “Where First Nations’ rights are not respected, resource development is delayed and costs go up. This uncertainty makes investors wary. Decision making processes for natural resource development projects must involve First Nations from the very initial stages of planning and exploration through to licensing, implementation and close out.” The National Chief attended the meeting in Montreal with Quebec Regional Chief Ghislain Picard, BC Regional Chief Terry Teegee, Yukon Regional Chief Norman Yakeleya and FSIN Vice-Chief Morley Watson. The National Chief outlined a number of ways the First Ministers could improve opportunities for First Nations. These included finding more ways to share in revenue and
ownership; recruiting and retaining First Nations as part of advisory councils, corporate boards, and any decisionmaking bodies; consideration of legislation that would require a percentage of procurement be set aside for First Nation businesses and service providers; and improving access to equity. National Chief Bellegarde stated that working with First Nations is the best way to respect First Nations rights and creates mutual benefits. He also made the point that Canada has an aging workforce and a skilled labour shortage, so it makes economic sense to invest in education and skills training for the fastest growing segment of Canada’s population – young First Nations men and women. The National Indigenous Economic Development Board estimates that Canada is missing out on $27.7 billion annually due to the under-utilization of the Indigenous workforce. The AFN is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada. Follow AFN on Twitter @AFN_Updates
“But government is not perfect,” he said. “We are not perfect. Trust takes time; it takes effort and commitment. All members need to understand that Indigenous consultation is not just required, it is crucial.” “Consultation is not just an open and closed book. It’s not something to get bogged down by. It’s not something to throw your hands up in the air about and say enough is enough. It’s work, it’s trust, it’s healing, it’s listening and
it’s moving forward together. It’s important to me, to the chiefs, to the Indigenous people and it should be important to all Albertans.” Noskey said that his community wasn’t even approached about the UCP plan. “That goes to show how uninformed Jason Kenney and his United Conservative Party is when it comes to the current processes and issues at the table,” he wrote.
AFN's message to First Ministers (Montreal, QC): Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Perry Bellegarde told the Prime Minister and Premiers at the First Ministers Meeting on December 10, 2018 that permits and licenses should not be given out by governments until companies can prove that they have developed a relationship with the local First Nations, a strategy for First Nations engagement, and opportunities for procurement, employment and revenue sharing. The National Chief stated that attempts to deny or ignore the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the lack of recognition of free, prior and informed consent are barriers to trade and development. “The enormous wealth generated in this country from resource development is primarily generated from First Nations lands. And trade in resources and goods began with us, First Nations peoples. Today, our economic
Treaty 8
cont. from p 6
The current provincial government has made real strides in Indigenous relations, added Minister Feehan, including addressing old issues, recognizing and addressing past wrongs and exploring new opportunities and collaborations.
Mark Smith, MLA DRAYTON VALLEY - DEVON Best wishes for a safe and happy holiday season and all the best in 2019 .
Box 7272 Drayton Valley, AB, T7A 1S5 (780) 542-3355 draytonvalley.devon@assembly.ab.ca
December, 2018
Alberta Native News
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Festival of Time features Indigenous films: Jan. 4-6 Zsofi (www.zsofipictures.com) presents the Film Festival of Time / des histories www.festivaloftime.ca . The vision of the Festival is to bring light to Indigenous, Canadian and International films with historic context. Zsofi has a history of working with the Maori people of New Zealand with a goal of bringing Indigenous peoples, their culture and their craft to the film and film festival spotlight. The festival will run from January 4 to 6, 2019, at Metro Cinema at the Garneau Theatre in Edmonton, with a Gala occurring on the evening of January 4th. The Gala will highlight the top submitted films and include Indigenous inspired appetizers and wine. “Within our Gala, we will also host a silent auction that will feature local Indigenous artists and have a guest speaker. Saturday, the 5th, is a full day line up of film screenings for everyone, young adults to those who are young at heart. Finally, Sunday the 6th is all online streaming of the best in show which you can enjoy from the comfort of your own home,” explained one of the event organizers Johnathan Zsofi. Festival of Time has three key goals to achieve, he added. First, to promote Indigenous artists of practical art as well as filmmakers. Second, to give Canadian and Edmonton Filmmakers a chance to have their work shared on the big screen. And finally, to showcase Historical films that speak to lessons of the past as we look to craft a better future. Festival of Time will premiere and present independent films of a historical and Canadian nature to deepen our understanding of what has passed both globally and in Canada. A well-crafted range of diverse and artistic programming will highlight political, cultural and spiritual issues around the globe. All Official Selected Finalists will be announced and invited to the festival with free passes for the two-day event. The Second day will include workshops and an award ceremony as well as a lineup of the best of the festival. More information on scheduled events, ticket purchases and online screening tickets is available at www.festivaloftime.ca. “We look forward to this gala event. Please come out and support this beautiful showcase where proceeds return to the local Indigenous communities and charities,” concluded Zsofi.
Moonstone Creations
cont. from p 9
way.” In fact, most everything Jobin takes on is something with traditional and/or educational value. Using traditional materials and techniques Jobin continues the established practices of her Cree ancestors. She is dedicated to preserving and teaching her culture through the arts and with the use of authentic and traditional materials. Yvonne is a sought-after seminar leader and teacher able to host and train both Indigenous and non-Indigenous groups and companies alike. She is dedicated to preserving and teaching her culture through the arts and with the use of authentic materials of her ancestors. As a seminar leader and teacher, Jobin’s work is found in private and public collections throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe. Yvonne is also an appointed Marriage Commissioner by the Government of Alberta. “I serve the Aboriginal community but when someone (from outside the community) is looking for a more meaningful ceremony, we are able to meet their expectations. She has also conducted numerous marriage ceremonies with themes that include traditional Indigenous, Celtic, and Western themes. Amy Willier, originally from the Sucker Creek First Nation, now resides in Calgary where she works with her mother at Moonstone Creations. With the tutelage of her mom, Amy has learned how to tan hides, do beadwork and create many other ancient art forms. She has taken the traditional arts and brought them into the future with her personal prowess when it comes to artistic creativity. Amy, who specializes in beadwork, leather work, painting and fish scale art, loves to teach others about her culture when they come into the gallery. Moonstone Creations is an internationally known gallery that specializes in authentic Indigenous Art. The family-based business is open Monday through Sunday and can be reached at 403-261-2650, or on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Visit moonstonecreation.ca for store hours and an inside look at what you can expect when you make your next visit.
To advertise your business or event, contact Dan at Alberta Native News 780-421-7966 or natnews@shaw.ca. Visit albertanativenews.com
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Alberta Native News
December, 2018
Seeking answers and lessons learned from the IRS Settlement by Regan Treewater Last month people from across the greater Edmonton area gathered in the penthouse reception room of the Holiday Inn. Overlooking the jungle of downtown’s gleaming towers, the purpose for this particular meeting was of a most serious nature. Scarred by the indelible trauma of generations, survivors of Canada’s residential schools and their families came seeking answers - answers that had been withheld from them for far too long. The event, Lessons Learned, organized by the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR), stopped in Edmonton on Nov. 14, along its coast-to-coast journey to engage communities throughout the country – both remote and urban. “The call to action is strong, and the road before us is long,” commented NCTR’s Director Ry Moran in a recent interview. The Centre archives government and church documents as well as survivor testimonies to chronicle Canada’s residential school system throughout its oppressive history. Through the tireless efforts of a small but dedicated Winnipeg based team, these documents are organized and made available to survivors and their families. “We started from the ground up,” explained Moran. “I’m always struck by how much has actually changed; it truly is amazing to take a pause and reflect upon where we began.” NCTR’s trip across the country aimed to provide much needed information to individuals and impacted communities. Currently, the challenge before the group is overcoming generations of mistrust and skepticism engrained by years of bureaucracy, broken promises and half-truths. Edmonton’s Lessons Learned event was attended by those seeking answers for themselves, and those seeking answers for family members. Facilitators fostered an atmosphere of respect and healing with trained counselors and support workers on site and ready to provide immediate services to those in need. There were formal presentations, but most of all, the
Van Camp
cont. from p 11
Mandeville, Seraphine and John Evans. I'm grateful that I
event sought to establish a safe forum for dialog and the sharing of information. Those in attendance were encouraged to share their stories, but certainly not pressured to do so. The atmosphere was welcoming and free of judgement as some attendees described their years of isolation, abuse, and trauma. However, the one unifying theme expressed by each person who chose to speak, was that there is an immediate and long overdue need for healing. Over and over, people from various communities recounted instances of serious misinformation; many expressed frustrations over not knowing where to turn for services, unbelievable wait-times for answers to simple questions, and the aggravation of maneuvering endless legal paperwork. Many also spoke about how, like a game of broken telephone, erroneous information is often spread within their communities. Hearing directly from NCTR helped to revive a glimmer of optimism that for many had long been extinguished by accessibility barriers and dehumanizing experiences of postcolonial othering. “We are still stabilizing in many regards” admitted Moran. However, as information is power, access to personal documents concerning their internments, he hopes, will go a long way to facilitating the healing process spoken of so prolifically. Unlike the past attempts of other organizations to gather truth, NCTR is guided by an entirely different philosophical approach: “Research has to be with – not on.” Moran emphasized this point elaborating that for many survivors, researchers would come into their communities, ask for stories and very personal testimonies, only to leave and never be heard from again. NCTR strives to find answers for, and to provide information to survivors – not to study them. In the hopes of preserving this history to give more thorough and accurate content for educational purposes NCTR’s mission is certainly one of research as well. The Centre is the product of what they describe as a “shared vision” founded to provide survivors with “a place of was the Handi Bus driver in Fort Smith when I didn't know what I was going to do with this life of mine. They saw something in me and they trusted me with their
learning and dialogue where the truths of their experiences were honoured and kept safe for future generations” (NCTR website). “During World War II there was a paper shortage, so some of the information simply is no longer available because much of that was taken and allocated to the war effort,” explained Moran. However, the sheer volume of material the NCTR is working to preserve is immense. And as school districts across Canada begin to integrate this history into their mandated curricula, NCTR has committed their energies to this ongoing work. Following a day of sharing and supporting, attendees were encouraged to take the information they acquired back to their communities. “We almost always find something for those who request their documents. Unfortunately, sometimes it might be a single sheet of paper, but we have certainly encountered other instances where we were able to provide survivors with several boxes of copied material,” said Moran. Despite the traumatic subject matter and haunting testimonials NCTR deals with, the Centre’s Director remains optimistic. “There are general trends towards a more respectful and dignified society,” he noted. It is hoped that the information collected from Residential School Survivors during the Lessons Learned project will influence future settlement agreements and provide the necessary feedback to prevent future mistakes, including unnecessary challenges Residential School Survivors faced during the process. stories. I'm so grateful for all the visits. I am so grateful that I had the privilege of getting to listen to and learn from Dorothy "Dot" Desjarlais, David King, Archie Smith, Earl and Marlene Evans, Kenny Hudson, my grandparents, Pierre and Melanie Wah-Shee, my mom, Rosa WahShee. Their teachings guide me to this day.” Richard Van Camp has left our readers with something to look forward to. His two new books should be out in mid-spring 2019. The first, May We Have Enough to Share is a baby book, with photography by Tenille Campell. The second, Moccasin Square Gardens is Van Camp’s fifth short story collection with Douglas & McIntyre. “Both,” said Van Camp, “are magic. I promise you!
December, 2018
Sober Walk
Alberta Native News cont. from p 2
is federal, and the other is provincial, and your voice can make a difference. Be optimistic, be strong; go out to the meetings and ask your questions. Get the answers you need to make election decisions that benefit you. Don’t be silent because silence is consent; don’t sit in the dark when you can walk in the light and let your voice be heard.” In closing she told the gathering to “work with me and remember - don’t ever quit, just keep moving forward.” Marilyn Buffalo is a well-known, educated and highly respected member of Canada’s Indigenous community. A direct descendent of Yellow Mud Blanket, whose brother, Chief Poundmaker, signed Treaty 6 in 1876, Buffalo has more than 47 years of public service experience with Indigenous nations, peoples and policy development. A former Advisor on Native Affairs to the University of Alberta (appointed in 1975) she was also responsible for laying the foundation for the Faculty of Native Studies, Native Student Services; and created a format for all Aboriginal programming at the University of Alberta. Buffalo was hired by the university in December 2016 on a temporary contract as a senior adviser on Indigenous initiatives in the Office of the Provost. Despite being notified of a two-year contract renewal earlier this year, Buffalo’s contract was not extended, something Treaty 6 Grand Chief Wilton Littlechild said in an April 12 CBC interview “really sets us back in terms of advancing reconciliation through the highest level of the University of Alberta. It really flies against the reconciliation process in any post-secondary institution, not just the University of Alberta." The next speaker, Jordan L’Hirondelle, spoke to the gathering about his four years of sobriety and his current status. “I am very proud to say that I have been 1,776 days sober,” he began to an enthusiastic crowd as they cheered and applauded his recovery. “The most important day of those many days is today because what we do today will define who we are, who we will be and what we will become. 42 of those days I spent at Poundmaker’s Lodge and Treatment Centre.” He spoke about the initial difficulties he faced, the demons he overcame and how, after just 10 days, he was ready to go home - cured. “I realize now that I was wrong,” he emphasized. “By the 19th day I learned something that took over my life and that was responsibility. With that new-found responsibility I learned to accept the fact that it was my fault that I went to jail, my fault that I was bored, my fault I failed in school.” Wrong choices and poor decisions, he said, led to his various crises. “But once I accepted that responsibility, my life changed dramatically for the better.” L’Hirondelle spoke about overcoming self-doubt, the importance of believing in oneself and how good habits are just as easy to acquire as bad ones. He encouraged everyone attending the Sober March to believe in
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themselves, to ask the Creator for guidance, to speak to the Elders and seek out advice from those who truly know the answers. He told the gathering that if you work toward your goals you can succeed. “Today,” he smiled proudly, “I have a beautiful daughter, a beautiful son, a wife, a house, a dream car that I always wanted - and every day I say, hi! my name is Jordan and I am an alcoholic.” (L-R) Poundmaker's Lodge Executive Director Brad Cardinal, Board Chair Jim Dr. Bob Turner, MLA for Brule and Elder Clifford Rabbitskin. Edmonton Whitemud, has been a Professor of Medicine (Hematology and want you to know that we are here to support you on this Oncology) at the University of Alberta Hospital for more very important journey you are on. Know that there is than 40 years. He spoke to the gathering on behalf of hope and that being clean and sober is possible. “At Poundmaker’s we encourage clients to know their Health Minister Sarah Hoffman and Indigenous Relations history because our history predicts our future. Knowing Minister Richard Feehan. who we are helps us to develop our sense of self and where “As a doctor I understand how difficult it is to be able to we choose to fit into the world. We urge you to learn about quit,” he said, lauding the accomplishments shared history and your background and never forget who your moments earlier by L’Hirondelle. “He is a hero and I know you are.” there are many more heroes out there; you can feel good Cardinal went on the thank the caregivers, support about yourselves and I congratulate every one of you. mental health workers and others in attendance agencies, “Addictions is not a choice; it is an illness that requires who are making a positive difference in the lives of others. support and services unique to each individual. We know He identified several agencies participating in the Sober that more than 60 percent of people with addictions and but questioned the sincerity of those who did not Walk mental health issues do not seek the help that they need attend. because of the negative stigma and the complexity of “Where are all the other agencies,” he questioned. accessing the health care system.” “Where are you? When our people are suffering - where He spoke about the ongoing opioid crisis and the need are you? Today, this is the place we need to be - this is what to work together to bring down the barriers. He spoke call ‘best practice.’ This is what we call ‘walking our we about the ongoing work being done by the Alberta talk’ and this is where it counts the most. This is where our government and its community partners to increase people expect your support - where are you? I hope the knowledge and introduce support programs accessible to media are here to capture this - those agencies that tell you every person suffering from addictions issues, programs to walk your talk where are you?” that are currently working with thousands of people each Poundmaker’s Lodge Treatment Centres prides itself on year. its 45-year history of providing exceptional addiction “We also recognize that First Nations and Métis people treatment services to Indigenous populations. For have higher rates of suicide” and that is all the more reason information visit poundmakerslodge.ca. that “it is important that Indigenous people are able to access mental health services and that they are culturally appropriate.” PLTC Executive Director Brad Cardinal noted that “the annual Sober Walk is an important event in that it recognizes the important struggles and the personal strength required when confronting an addiction. Maintaining recovery is very hard work so for those of you in recovery I just
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Alberta Native News
December, 2018