Volume 34 Number 04 April, 2017
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Cover art: Detail from the "Adventures of the Curious Bear in a Red Canoe" Š series by Jason Carter. On exhibit at Bearclaw Gallery in Edmonton - see article on page 2.
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Alberta Native News
April, 2017
Jason Carter featured at Bearclaw Gallery: April 22 – May 3 The brilliant painting on the cover of this month’s Alberta Native News is a detail from one of the new acrylics by Jason Carter, an exciting contemporary artist whose work is currently on display at Bearclaw Gallery in Edmonton in a wonderful exhibit entitled “The Adventures of the Curious Bear in the Red Canoe.” The exhibit, which features new works in both acrylics on canvas and stone sculptures, opens on April 22 at 1 pm and continues at the Bearclaw Gallery until May 3, 2017. The artist will be in attendance on April 22 from 1-4 pm and the event is timed to coincide with the Gallery Walk held April 22 and 23 in Edmonton. Jason, a member of the Little Red River Cree Nation describes the exhibit as follows: “This series of paintings and carvings are an homage to place and spirit, and to this amazing country we call Canada. An adventurous, brave and very curious bear sets out to explore this vast country and meet its many wonderful inhabitants. Brilliant and bold colours on canvas depict places that we’ve been to or dream about seeing. These paintings are accompanied by a series of carvings in Canadian Stone, reminding us of the common ground we stand upon as we celebrate Canada this year.” Jason Carter is one of Canada’s most accomplished contemporary Aboriginal visual artists, celebrated for both his paintings and his carvings. He had a solo show at Alberta House on Alberta Day at the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics. His work has been acquired into dozens of private collections including The Government of Alberta, The City of Edmonton, AFA, Rogers Media, Syncrude, The Shaw Art Collection, The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo. He has also had several exciting public shows, including the Royal Alberta Museum, Art Gallery of Alberta, The Art Gallery of Calgary and the Indian and Northern Affairs Public Art Display in Ottawa, Ontario. “Being an artist who divides his time equally painting and carving, I have been gifted the opportunity to express myself through two mediums, stone and canvas, and both
I approach with humor and optimism,” explains Jason. “In the world we live in, there is much to be cynical about, but I have found an outlet that I gather much joy and light from, and am so fortunate to be able to pass that joy on. As an Aboriginal man from the Little Red River Cree Nation, I gather much inspiration from the stories passed on by elders within my community, stories that have evolved and changed, some documented, some not, but the essence of these characters are passed on through the years. As an artist, I am inspired by the essence of some of these characters and then, in keeping with the tradition of my indigenous roots, create new stories filled with wonder and morals, and bring them to life through my chosen medium, canvas and stone with written word.” Jason has been commissioned by the Art Gallery of Alberta, The Canada Council for the Arts, The Alberta Foundation of the Arts, The Edmonton Arts Council, The Works International Visual Arts Society, The Society of Manufacturing Engineers of Canada, Winter Light Festival, Syncrude Canada, The Government of Canada, The Edmonton International Airport, The Wood Buffalo Regional Municipality and The City of Calgary. He has created permanent murals for the Amiskwaskahegan (Beaver Hills Park) in Edmonton and was one of three artists for the LRT/SOUTH Extension beautification project. He was celebrated as ‘Emerging Artist of the Year’ at the Mayor’s Evening of the Arts in Edmonton as well as Avenue Magazines Top 40 Under 40. Jason illustrated his first Children’s book April 2011, “WHO IS BOO: The Terrific Tales of One Trickster Rabbit” inspired by his first carving of a rabbit which he called ‘Nanabozho’ (based on the - Ojibwe trickster character). Since then, “WHO IS BOO 2: The Continued Adventures” has been published as well as WHO IS BOO 3” and in 2015, a special exhibit entitled “World of Boo”was held at the BMO World of Creativity Children’s Gallery at the Art Gallery of Alberta. Jason also completed an
"Bear at Rest" by Jason Carter.
18-paining series for the Art Gallery of Alberta part of the T-REX Program called ‘Urban Animals’ which has been touring Alberta, and he published a children’s book of the same name. Jason Carter is currently represented by The Bearclaw Gallery located at 10403 124 Street in Edmonton - a wellknown and highly regarded Canadian First Nations art dealer and gallery. Over the last three decades, the Bearclaw Gallery has established solid relationships with First Nations artists from across Canada and has proudly promoted Canadian First Nations and Inuit art and artists to buyers both at home and internationally. For more information, visit bearclawgallery.com.
Historic National Gathering of Elders will convene this fall by John Copley
The 522,000-sq. foot Edmonton Exposition (EXPO) Centre hosts more than 2500 different events each year while attracting more than 4 million visitors from across Canada and around the world. That number is expected to grow even larger this year when from September 11-14 thousands of First Nations and Métis Elders converge on Alberta’s capital to participate in the first-ever National Gathering of Elders event. This monumental and historic undertaking began with a vision by Tallcree First Nation Chief Rupert Meneen, Grand Chief of Alberta’s Treaty 8 First Nations. “The National Gathering of Elders,” noted Chief Rupert Meneen, “will mark the first time that Elders from across the country have come together to gather in one location. We are inviting First Nation, Métis and Innu Elders and seniors from across Turtle Island to participate in a gathering being hosted for them here in Alberta. The focus of this unique undertaking will be to make everyone feel welcome and to create opportunities for sharing our cultures and perspectives and fostering good relations with all Indigenous peoples from across the nation. “As a Cree person, a First Nation person and a community leader, I've called on many Continued on page 6
April, 2017
Alberta Native News
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RISE book club launches with courageous memoir by John Copley Athabasca University Press (AU Press) joined Reconciliation in Solidarity Edmonton (RISE) on the recent launch of their citywide book club. RISE is described by co-founder Miranda Jimmy as “an inclusive group that promotes reconciliation in both actions and words.” Attending the panel discussion at Edmonton City Hall was author, Arthur Bear Chief, whose book “My Decade at Old Sun: My Lifetime of Hell” was the highlight of the event. “It's a personal story about my experience in residential school,” explained the author in an interview shortly before the book launch got underway. “I spent nearly 10 years - from 1949 to 1957 - at the Old Sun Indian Residential School. I wrote this book so that the public can hear a personal story about what went on, a story by someone who can speak for the thousands that have already passed on, many who died attending these schools and many more who’ve suffered and died because of them. I feel like I am a spokesperson for those people who never made it; that’s why I decided to write the book in the first place. That and the fact that in 2002 when I went for my Examination of Discovery, and suffered several setbacks, I told the court stenographer that I would write a book about my experiences and she said ‘do that and I’ll buy it; it will take guts to write that story.’ “I went home after that and I wrote one paragraph. It was about eight months later before I got back to it. It was a slow process and it took at least six or seven years of my own writing before I finally found Fritz Pannekoek and Judy Bedford - they both played an instrumental role in enabling this story to be told and the book to be published. It took us about two years to finish the project. Fritz became the editor and Judy took on the monumental task of separating and sorting my many pages of copy to ensure that they were in order and that my story made sense.” In all, everything took about a decade to complete. “Fritz gave us a deadline for September 2012 and Judy and I met that deadline,” noted Bear Chief. “From there it went into the hands of the experts at Athabasca University
Press and they did a great job of setting everything up and printing the book.” Noting that he’d “never written anything like a book before,” Elder Bear Chief said, “it didn’t really surprise me that it took so long to complete; and now I feel like I have honoured Panelists Arthur Bear Chief, Pamela Holoway, Steven Cooper and Charlene the promise I made to Bearhead at the launch of the RISE book club in Edmonton. myself when I decided that Old Sun Community College; the building plays a more I needed to share my story with the Canadian public.” AU Press referred to Bear Chief’s book as “a memoir important role today as an educational institute that allows that is a frank account of Arthur’s experience at Old Sun our children to grow.” Before introducing moderator Charlene Bearhead and Residential School, a school located just outside Calgary the panelists, author Arthur Bear Chief, AU Press Senior in Gleichen, Alberta. Editor Pamela Holloway and Edmonton lawyer, Steven The book club was launched on March 30th to mark the Cooper, Elder Gilman Cardinal offered a prayer and some 3rd Anniversary of the TRC’s Final Hearing in Edmonton, insight into the importance of earning an education. the last stop on a country-wide tour that saw the begin by reiterating this sentiment from TRC Head “I’ll Commission collect statements from residential school Commissioner Justin Murray Sinclair,” began Elder survivors. Cardinal, who noted: “education got us into this mess and “Night Moves” author, Richard Van Camp called Bear will get us out.” education Chief’s book “a courageous memoir and a must-read for Elder Cardinal said that “education is truly a medicine everyone brave enough to learn about residential schools.” for our young people - schools, education, work, the Dr. Marie Wilson, a Commissioner with the Truth and to work and to move forward - these are the commitment Reconciliation Commission of Canada, from 2009–2015 best medicines in the world. We must honour our young called My Decade at Old Sun, “raw, graphic, and people and help them move forward with these compelling. No two residential school survivor stories are medicines.” the same, each one bringing us to a deeper understanding Speaking on behalf of the City of Edmonton was Roger of our country and our past failings. Reading this will help Jevne, Branch Manager for Community and Recreation you consider our present-day responsibilities and our Facilities. collective opportunities to set things right.” “We are fortunate to share in the diverse cultural, social “My Decade at Old Sun, My Lifetime of Hell” is a and economic contributions that Indigenous peoples bring simple and outspoken account of the sexual and to our city each day. Three years ago I was humbled and psychological abuse that Arthur Bear Chief suffered honoured to host the Final National Gathering of the Truth during his time at Old Sun Residential School in Gleichen and Reconciliation Commission. The retelling of this on the Siksika Nation. “I still live in Gleichen and the old brick school building Continued on page 7 is still standing,” noted Bear Chief. “Today it is known as
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Alberta Native News
Alberta’s child welfare system is in a state of disrepair by John Copley In December 2016, Alberta Human Services formed a 10-person panel to investigate what critics said was government’s failure to properly handle and thoroughly examine the death of four-year-old Serenity, a young brutalized child who died from a brain injury in 2014. The coroner’s office noted that the child’s emaciated body also showed signs that she’d been sexually abused. But the panel’s job goes much deeper than investigating a single case of government bungling and indecision. The child welfare system and the kinship care program are flawed and everyone in the province, particularly the Indigenous population, knows it. Though the Indigenous population in Alberta represents less than six percent of the total headcount, 60 percent of children in care are Indigenous children. In Serenity’s case the Alberta government has admitted to taking too long to hand documents relating to the fourmonth-old’s death over to the RCMP. That’s part of the reason why they agreed to set up a panel to further investigate the matter, examine the inner workings of the child welfare system and come up with viable recommendations. But this is neither the province’s nor
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the child welfare system’s first rodeo; during the past eight years there have been six similar panels set up to examine the same things. The fact is, Serenity’s case is just one of many that could be opened for further investigation when one considers that the Ministry of Children’s Services recently reported that between April 2014 and December 2016, 73 children and youth receiving child intervention services, died in Alberta. On January 18, 2017, the province named three experts to the 10-person panel that includes more than a half dozen provincial MLAs and three opposition caucus leaders. Those experts include Patti LaBoucane-Benson, director of research and evaluation at Native Counselling Services of Alberta; Peter Choate, assistant professor of social work at Mount Royal University; and Bruce MacLaurin, a professor of social work at the University of Calgary. During the last three months, several reports have made their way into the mainstream media and it is becoming more and more obvious that it’s going to be difficult to get a consensus that can bring about positive change. Unless, perhaps, government listens and acknowledges that
April, 2017
families and children in care must be included in matters that affect them. That’s the stance taken by many people in the community including LaBoucane-Benson, who told CBC that too often the focus of internal reviews involves talking with their own staff members and to the health care professionals responsible for the care of the children. LaBoucane-Benson lauded the Office of the Child and Youth Advocate, who along with the Chief Medical Officer and Fatality Review Board, investigates cases that involve children in crisis, including those who have died. “The only process in this entire thing that I've seen that talks to families is the Office of the Child and Youth Advocate,” emphasized LaBoucane-Benson. "The youth advocate (Del Graff) does family interviews and his reports are fantastic." "Do the families have any voice in this review?" she questioned, noting that their participation could add a better understanding to each case. “Asking the family's perspective on perhaps the nature of the relationship with the service providers and the children in the families might help with the quality control process,” she suggested. The statutory director of children’s services, Eldon Block, agreed that LaBoucane-Benson had made a good point and one he said the ministry would further look into. Métis Child and Family Services Executive Director Don Langford said the child welfare system is plagued with problems, some stemming from a lack of finances, others from the complacency of bureaucracy and more from case workers and supervisors who neither understand Indigenous peoples nor include them at the Continued on page 10
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Volume 34, Number 4 April 2017 ISSN #08294135 www.albertanativenews.com EDITOR: Deborah Shatz ADVERTISING: Sales 780-421-7966 Alberta Native News is published monthly for distribution to Native Bands and Metis Settlements across Alberta, Saskatchewan, British Columbia and Northwest Territories.
April, 2017
Alberta Native News
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Big Brothers Big Sisters: Volunteering brings big rewards by Terry Lusty In 1962, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada was founded to assist in the development and well-being of children and youth. A decade later saw the evolution of a similar organization known as Big Brothers Big Sisters, and by 2011 the two parties amalgamated to become the Boys and Girls Clubs, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada. Headquartered today in Edmonton's beautiful river valley the organization continues to rely heavily on volunteerism. According to Showna Blanchard, Mentoring Manager, they have a staff of about 100 that is complemented by over 3,000 volunteers. Blanchard is quite proud of their volunteers and always encourages others from the public to consider joining their ranks for the sake of the children and youth that they serve. In reality it's a blessing and benefit to both parties. The volunteers do a good deed and derive plenty of selfsatisfaction from their efforts while the children and youth acquire a "brother" or "sister" who visits them, usually for a few hours one day a week, and takes them on outings, to a sporting event, music, art, theatre, concert, or so forth. "We do a matching process," explains Blanchard. Children and youth are paired with a volunteer who has similar interests and/or experiences to theirs so that compatibility is achieved. "We ask that the volunteer commit to a year in the Community Based Program. They can ask for longer," she adds. And, if a match doesn't really work out, "we ask for a re-match." Because clients can hail from some very diverse backgrounds, the many volunteers, likewise, possess varying and diverse histories, knowledge and skills that assist them in mentoring the children or youths. One of the mentors, for example, is 25-year-old Andrew, a First Nation male originally from north-central Alberta. He mentors an 11-year-old boy on a one-to-one basis and has been paired with him now for about one year. Just how long Andrew will remain with the organization is unclear. "I'm playing it by ear," he confesses. "It kind of depends on circumstances such as work, education or
possible relocation." Andrew himself was initially attracted to Big Brothers after chancing upon an Edmonton Police Service information booth. They were requesting volunteers to work with children and he started talking with them about it. The rest is history. And, he'd been well prepped for the role. He had a fine mentor in the person of his father as well as other individuals who he'd learned from. His dad was always big on things like honesty, respect, responsibility, etc. Other role models in his life taught him the value of hard work, how to make crafts, what is good behaviour and attitudes, and so on. One thing he really appreciates about being a Big Brother is "being a positive influence" not to mention the joy he sees on his young brother's face. Then too is the good feelings he gets from "hanging out with a great kid" and simply "enjoying each other's company." A few of their outings have included "a nature hike along Whitemud Creek and going biking a lot." He likes the fact that his mentee is "open and energetic." In short, he is such a joy to be around. Andrew is able to accommodate a number of activities that his little brother may suggest because his background includes: farming, bush life, badminton, basketball, hockey, soccer, and more. When asked what advice he might have for others contemplating volunteering as a Big Brother, Andrew cautions, "Don't just jump in and do it. It's a big decision, you're a mentor. It's a big commitment. It takes a good part of your time." As for himself, Andrew feels quite fortunate. He's never felt mismatched with his mentee. "He (the mentee) was excited to get a mentor, happy to have a Big Brother." This was especially so in that his dad was not around that much because he worked out-of-town. Because of this, the mentee never really had a constant role model but Andrew was a great substitute. Blanchard points out that the organization does not
sponsor things like sport camps but they can refer children to them. Furthermore, she states, the Hockey Heroes program is a "popular one." So is soccer. When pressed further, Andrew admits that he does find some aspects of mentoring that he considers "tough.� "Sometimes," he explains, "he (the mentee) doesn't like to end the outing when I have to leave of do something else." As for children with special needs, says Blanchard, "we don't train our volunteers; if we can't match someone, we help find someone that can." They do, however, provide a degree of in-house training for the Youth in Care program in areas such as advocacy, Child and Family Services, etc. Additionally, among the staff, there are a fair number who possess a social work degree/background and they are privy to Aboriginal awareness and aculturation. In northern Alberta, Big Brothers Big Sisters also operate from Cold Lake, Lac La Biche, Morinville, Parkland, Strathcona and Vegreville. The seven locations serve almost 5,300 children and youith aged six to 24. Of these, approximately 16 percent self-identify as Indigenous, says Blanchard, while only three percent of the volunteers are of Indigenous background. The main supporters and/or funders include: Edmonton Community Foundation, Immigration Refugee Citizenship Canada, Region 6, Rogers, Stollery Charitable Foundation and United Way as well as Canadian Western Bank, Edmonton Public Schools, Manulife, Melton Foundation, Northlands, Sports Canada, Sun Life Financial, and more. For more information or to volunteer, visit bgcbigs.ca/volunteer or contact Showna by email at: Showna.Blanchard@bgcbigs.ca.
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Alberta Native News
Elders
cont. from p 2
Elders for their counsel on many different occasions over the years. The words of the Elders are invaluable and I hold them all in high regard. This gathering will give us the opportunity to show our Elders that we honour and cherish them, that we value their words and their teachings and that we honour their legacy and their resilience. “Our Elders hold, in their collective memories, the true history of Canada and its Indigenous peoples. Our Elders were integral to the survival of the European settlers as well as their allies in times of war. As Canada takes time to celebrate 150 years, we call on all Canadians to recognize not only the valuable contributions of Indigenous peoples but also the huge toll that colonization has taken on Canada's Aboriginal population. “Reconciliation that honours our Elders must include acknowledgment of our true history and our commitment to move forward together in a partnership that is both meaningful and respectful. Let us all ensure that the next 150 years are something we can all celebrate. It is my hope that this national event will not be the last but instead the first of many to come.” Two members from the Elders Advisory Council also attended the press conference. New member Astinak Bishop represents the Innu community in the Northwest Territories while Alice Kaquitts is a Stoney Nakoda from the Wesley First Nation in southwestern Alberta. “As a member of Alberta’s Elders Advisory Committee,” said Elder Kaquitts, “I am pleased and honoured to be here today to contribute to the vision of Grand Chief Meneen. We started the ceremony with prayer to ensure that the Gathering and all who attend will be blessed. Our council provided advice on all aspects of the event and we have enjoyed working with a dedicated group of coordinators. We are all so very excited about the prospect of meeting our Indigenous brothers and sisters from across Turtle Island and from within the Province of Alberta. The National Gathering of Elders will truly be an event for and about Elders and seniors. Canada is enriched by our diverse Indigenous cultures, languages and ways of life. We look forward to sharing our culture and to learning from each other as we forge new friendships together. We take this opportunity to invite our relatives from the north, from the east coast, the west coast, Québec, Ontario,
Saskatchewan, British Columbia and Manitoba to the four-day Gathering and we hope to see you all at the beginning of the event on September 11.” Alberta Indigenous Affairs Minister Richard Feehan took to the podium and began by noting that “this is an incredible opportunity we share today as we move toward a greater understanding about the importance of First Nation, Métis and Inuit tradition. I thank the Elders for bringing this forward and for allowing us to understand the depths of their teachings. “As a province, we are very happy to announce a contribution of $100,000 to the organizing committee of this historic event and look forward to participating in others ways as we prepare for the main event in September. It is our hope that this funding will allow both Elders and youth to sit in the same room together, talking together and sharing their cultures and traditions as we all talk together about where we are going in the future.” Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Alberta Regional Chief Craig Makinaw said the “AFN looks forward to working with Grand Chief Meneen and the North Peace Tribal Council as well as with our Métis and Innu counterparts here in Alberta in organizing an event that has been long awaited. It has been a very rewarding experience working (with everyone involved and) with the Métis Nation of Alberta and the Métis Settlement General Council. We have been learning more about each other as we build bridges and create lasting friendships. “This historic undertaking will benefit Elders from every Indigenous group. I am pleased to inform you that the AFN executive has endorsed this gathering and shares in the commitment of Grand Chief Meneen in ensuring a successful event. We have reached out to our counterparts in other regions to get the message out and to find avenues of support so Elders from all regions can attend this event. “Hosting an event of this scope is quite costly and we welcome the support of government and industry from across Canada. The sharing of stories, languages, traditions, arts and culture from the east coast to the west coast and from the north and south will have meaningful and lasting impacts. Our Elders deserve this honour and we are gathering youth and inviting the world to come and bear witness to the National Gathering of Elders later this year.” Métis Settlements General Council president Gerald Cunningham expressed his gratitude for the inclusivity and said that “at the core of who we are as Indigenous peoples in our various cultures in Canada there
April, 2017
Treaty 8 Grand Chief Rupert Meneen and AFN Regional Chief Craig Makinaw at the recent announcement of an historic Elders Gathering that will take place in Edmonton in September 2017.
are more than 1000 unique Aboriginal communities. For convenience, we are often grouped together as Indigenous – we are sorted out in Métis and Inuit and First Nation categories and although we all have our own uniqueness, we are also the same in so many ways. “We recognize that there are many common themes when examining our unique histories – one of those common themes is the respect we have for our Elders, the important part they play in keeping our history, safeguarding our culture, protecting our languages and mentoring our youth. “This historic Gathering of the Elders is something that has not taken place before; it will be an historic event with First Nation, Métis and Inuit Elders, representing all three distinct cultures, to come together to share stories, laugh, educate and learn. “The Métis Settlements look forward to participating in this historic gathering; I thank Grand Chief Meneen for his vision and for his commitment to this gathering and for inviting the Métis Settlements to participate and to be involved in the planning and organizing committee." Associate Regional Director General for the Alberta Region of Indigenous Affairs and Northern Affairs Canada, Kevin Murchie said, “Listening to the Elders is imperative in renewing the nation-to-nation relationship with Indigenous people in order for Canada to move forward in a good way. I know that Canada's journey over the next 150 years will be made better by strong and respected community builders. This National Gathering event is a good step in the right direction (and) INAC supports this timely gathering and the contributions that will be made.”
April, 2017
Alberta Native News
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Bamboo Tapping provides muscle pain relief and more by Marcel Fayant Are you suffering from Muscular Chronic Pain such as, shoulder, back, neck, leg, knee pain, and more? Are you finding it difficult to move? Are you sad and bitter? I know what it’s like, I've been there with a lot of injuries in muscles basically from neck to foot. When you let your body go for a long period with muscular problems, such as: repetitive use, injuries, etc., they gradually spread throughout your whole body and they can be hard to fix, as they get tight and knotted up, leading to much physical and mental pain. I went to Asia to get this Bamboo Tapping treatment done on me after researching it. I was a painful and muscular mess. I was skeptical at first, but I believe in this treatment after I had it done to me. It fixed up some of my problems and gave me back movement in some muscles that I thought I would never get back, and it lessened some of my terrible pain. Is it the perfect cure-all? No, but I found it to be beneficial, and one of the best treatments out
RISE book club
cont. from p 3
painful chapter in history was difficult and emotional. Since the Alberta National Event in Edmonton we have continued the journey to build trust and human relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Edmontonians. We've made some powerful progress toward reconciliation and maintain our pledge to give Indigenous peoples a stronger voice in our community.” Jevne told the gathering that Edmonton was one of the first municipalities in Canada that committed to training its staff about the generational trauma suffered by Indigenous peoples who attended the residential schools. He spoke about the many initiatives the city is working on to ensure that reconciliation is ongoing, including the Indigenous naming of buildings, streets and parks after well-known and respected Indigenous leaders. “We are also working with Treaty 6 First Nations and with the Métis community in Edmonton to develop an Indigenous art park in Queen Elizabeth Park which will feature six permanent artworks by Canadian Indigenous artists,” he noted, thanking the large gathering for both their interest and participation.” Arthur Bear Chief’s book is told in matter-of-fact style; he pulls no punches when it comes to talking about the
there. Bamboo Tapping is “an Ancient Chinese Method - an holistic treatment that can help in managing, easing, and healing muscular chronic pain.” It can create better flexibility and range of motion. Even if you're in your later years of 50-60+ this treatment can be helpful. It can help out injury plagued athletes. I have been certified by Master Sim, so I can offer this ancient treatment. I want to gain more experience and try to help people dealing with muscular chronic pain. The treatment can be ‘painful,’ but it can make you feel better, plus, and you can get that good night sleep you've been missing. I remember a few weeks ago, I was watching a local TV news story about a woman who lost her husband to opioid usage, because he had severe back pain. I wondered if this treatment could’ve helped him lessen some of his pain. I want to help people lessen their dependency of using savagery of the institution, the cruelty of those who ran it, the abuse he and others suffered on a daily basis and the injustices that took place then and are taking place today. He doesn’t shy away from calling the lawyers involved in “pretending to speak for us,” as little more than a bunch “of greedy vultures” whose singular purpose was to “make money for themselves.” Likewise he remembered a time when “I was so starved for love that I ran up to Miss Twigg and grabbed her legs like I used to do with my mother, who would pat me on the head and say “I love you” before I ran off to play. Well, that did not happen. Instead I got a good beating from her in front of everyone. Nobody would or could help me.” Arthur returned to Gleichen, Alberta late in life and it was there that he began to reconnect with the Blackfoot language and culture and to write his story. Although the terrific adversity Bear Chief faced in his childhood made an indelible mark on his life, his unyielding spirit is evident throughout his story. Arthur Bear Chief left the Old Sun Residential School at the age of seventeen. He worked as a student counsellor at Shingwauk Indian
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painkillers, and thoughts of suicide. Some painkillers can cause serious internal organ problems over time; I want to give people the opportunity to try and have an active lifestyle once again. Over the past year from 2016-2017 I’ve volunteered my time by offering a free session by making use of online postings. I have done this treatment on close to a dozen people with various muscular problems and have gotten back some positive feedback. The treatment isn't for illness, disease, strokes, or injuries that have recently happened. I am looking for a Book Publisher, and hopefully, to make a documentary film on it. Residential School as a young man before embarking on a career with the government, which included work with the Public Service Commission of Canada in Edmonton and Northern Affairs in Ottawa. Since 2015, RISE has worked in Edmonton to educate the public about the Indian Residential School system, to create virtual and physical public spaces to learn about and promote reconciliation, and to provide ways to learn about and engage with Indigenous cultures. For more information see www.risebookclub.ca. The next book club discussion will once again focus on “My Decade at Old Sun” and will take place at the Castle Downs Library from 2-4 pm on April 29, 2017. There is no charge to attend. You can borrow a copy of Arthur Bear Chief’s book from your local library or purchase a copy from your favorite bookseller. It will also be available for sale at the upcoming RISE book club meeting.
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Alberta Native News
April, 2017
Treaty 6 ASETS hosts successful career fair by John Copley On March 14-15, 2017, West Edmonton Mall’s Fantasyland Hotel was the site of the fourth annual Treaty 6 ASETS Workforce Employment Partnerships and Career Fair. The popular two-day event attracted about 2,000 visitors, including unemployed Aboriginal workers seeking opportunities and ready-to-graduate Grade 12 students meeting with post-secondary schools for insight into their vast array of program options. Over 70 businesses, corporations, institutions and government agencies participated in this year’s event, making it one of the largest and best attended career fairs to date. The beat of the drums and the songs of the Alexis Singers greeted the long line of Grand Entry participants before an Elder invocation and opening remarks by Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation Chief Tony Alexis and Alexander First Nation Chief Kurt Burnstick got the event underway. After welcoming and acknowledging those in attendance Chief Alexis spoke about the importance of partnerships, something he noted "as always being a part of our traditional culture. No one does things on their own; it's always about partnerships - that’s a cultural value and a principle of our people.” Chief Alexis said he was encouraged by the ongoing growth of the annual Employment Partnerships and Career Fair, a part of the Treaty 6 ASETS Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training Strategy, noting that “this is what our ancestors wanted for our peoples - to have real partnerships and to have our peoples benefitting through employment and economic opportunities.” The Chief spoke about today’s ever-changing world and the uncertainty of tomorrow. He told the gathering that partnerships and working in unison will help both people and businesses overcome whatever obstacles lay ahead. “We face these things together,” he stated. “How we overcome falling markets, a falling dollar and an uncertain future is by working together in partnership. We don’t yet know how the cards will fall in the months and years to come, but through our partnerships we can learn to stick together as we continue to build our communities,
our businesses and our people.” Chief Alexis also alluded to the fact that for too long government has Alexander First Nation Chief Kurt Burnstick and Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation Chief taken the lion’s share from Tony Alexis led the grand entry at the recent Treaty 6 ASETS career fair. dealings with its Indigenous peoples, to speak to those here seeking employment. For those dictating rather than negotiating, telling rather than working with ASETS and other employment programs I suggesting, imposing rules and regulations without urge you to take time to speak to both the employers and consultation. the jobseekers, and for those of you here today seeking “That has to change,” he said. “Canada is celebrating employment I encourage you to speak with all of the 150 years and I ask: where are we going to be in another potential employers. If you want a job, look for the job that 150 years? Are we going to continue in the partnerships you're being trained for and show the employers that you we have where it feels like we are being dictated to? Are are their best option.” we going to continue in partnerships where we have Edmonton’s Indigenous Recruitment Officer David people thinking they know more than we do? That cannot Plamondon told the gathering that although he’s only be. In 150 years we have to be equal partners, we have to “been with the City of Edmonton for a short time,” he is be contributing and utilizing the leverage of the First “proud to be part of a community that supports the Nations in Treaty 6 territory and we have to work on true Indigenous community in so many viable ways. As a part partnerships from which we can build our communities. of the Edmonton community and as a member of the “I ask you this: In 150 years will our people know their Indigenous community I am very pleased to see so many language? In 150 years will our people tell our stories and employers, community partners and other organizations sing our songs?” here today to support Indigenous peoples. I look forward After a resounding “yes!” Chief Alexis told the to meeting with you today and working with you in the gathering “that's where we're headed. Indigenous people future.” are headed back to that point where we are rebuilding The two-day employment strategies and career fair ourselves – that spirit is growing so strong that when we event featured two main keynote speakers, including see our children today we note that before they can walk Beaver Lake Cree Nation activist, Crystal Lameman and or talk they're dancing. They’re already in ceremony as the Gary Bosgoed (VP Waiward Steel.) Various workshops spirit of our people becomes stronger and stronger. It's a and mini-symposiums were held throughout both days of beautiful time for us.” the event by organizations that included the Bent Arrow Government of Canada Service Manager Robyn Mutch Society, Centre for Race and Culture, Credit counselling spoke about the ASETS program and encouraged Society, Spirit Staffing, Dreamspeakers and the Alberta everyone in attendance to participate in a meaningful way. Indian Investment Corporation. “The Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training The Treaty 6 ASETS Employment Partnership and Strategy, funded by the government of Canada, focuses on Career/Job Fair is an initiative created in 2013 via a developing partnerships, provides demand driven training partnership between the Treaty Six Aboriginal Skills, and helps get people employed. What better venue than Employment and Training Strategy (ASETS), and Alberta this – where we have Human Services/Labour. employers, jobseekers and The Treaty Six ASETS Steering Committee is the people who are comprised of the Six Independent Alberta First Nations working to get people into Society of Maskwacis (SIAFNS), Yellowhead Tribal training? I've never seen a Development Foundation (YTDF), Tribal Chiefs better demonstration than Employment and Training Services Association we see here today. This (TCETSA) and urban ASETS agreement holder, Oteenow event gives us the Employment and Training Society (OETS). The ASETS opportunity of time – for boards and committees are comprised of First Nations employers and industry I leadership and professionals, representing 17 Treaty Six urge you to take that time (Alberta) First Nations.
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April, 2017
Alberta Native News
9
Jodell Morin Strongman is making the grade in class and on the court by John Copley Jodell Morin Strongman is a 14-year-old grade eight student who attends Bessie Nichols School in southwest Edmonton. He’s a tall, soft-spoken, intelligent young man with a quiet demeanour and a sense of self-assuredness. He’s a good student who struggles with math, finds science “very interesting,” gets “good grades” in language arts and is most interested in “social studies and athletics.” Since early childhood Jodell and his twin brother Codell have been raised in part by their uncle, Guy Robert Morin and his husband, Stephen Haney. As the brothers grew older and began to form an idea of what lay ahead, it became obvious, noted Guy, “that they had different interests. Codell, for example, was never really into sports or athletics while Jodell enjoyed competition and has always been a very physically active kid.” Jodell enjoys and is interested in carpentry, architecture and veterinary medicine. He isn’t just a good student, he’s also a pretty good athlete who has played volleyball, basketball and soccer, hefted the shot-put and ran in track and field events. But his passion is basketball, as was made obvious this year as a team member and captain of his school basketball team, the Bessie Nichols Nighthawks. “I love basketball - it’s a great sport and one that I hope to continue to play throughout my school years,” smiled Jodell in an interview just before a game got underway at his school. “I am inspired by my favourite player, LeBron James and it is my intention to eventually play professionally, but first I plan to finish school and maybe one day play for the Ooks at NAIT or the Golden Bears at the University of Alberta. I am also interested in Native Studies and engineering and though I’m not sure what path life will lead me along, I do hope to make a career of these choices in the future.” If he maintains his current pace and mindset, assured his uncle, Jodell will meet any goal he chooses for himself. Basketball, noted Guy, has just about always been Jodell’s passion. “He began following the sport soon after he started to
come to the practices and games I would have with the various First Nation teams I coached,” he explained. “He'd practice with my players, and instantly took to the game. He was in Grade 5 while I was teaching in Calgary. I encouraged my sister to enroll him in basketball and she selected a community league team. The next year, Jodell lived with me and played ball with my school team, and it's there that we saw something special start to unfold. His first year of junior high and his experience in community league play gave him a head-start and before long he really started to shine. Today he excels at the sport. As team captain, Jodell scored more than 325 points in just 13 games this year, quite an improvement from the 145 he earned last year.” The Bessie Nichols Nighthawks also took home the silver medal in the City Finals. Jodell’s passion for the sport is so great that he also plays for “Northwest,” a community league team that saw him score more than 140 points in 17 games this year, up 30 per cent from the previous season. “Northwest won silver in the City Finals and took bronze in the Provincial Finals,” added Guy. Guy Morin is both Jodell’s uncle and his godfather and he says that helping to raise the twins has made him a much better person than he ever knew he could be. “The truth is, I’m a high-school dropout,” Guy admitted. “I’ve had my share of ups and downs, particularly throughout my early years, but being entrusted by my sister, who chose me as the child’s godfather, and asked me to help raise the boys, completely turned my life around. I am forever grateful that my baby sister saw something in me that I didn’t know was there. I am Jodell’s godfather, but without his dad in his life I took on the role as his father as that's what he sees me as. I am there to guide him, mold him, be hard on him when I have to, but at the same time be his cheerleader and encourage him to succeed.” “It’s been a very positive experience for me,” assured
Guy Morin and Jodell Morin Strongman
Jodell, who credits his uncle for keeping him on the straight and narrow. “My uncle, I call him my dad because he supports me like a dad, encourages me and listens to me when I have concerns or need advice. He’s always made sure that I do my homework, reassures me when I have doubts and encourages me to lead a drug and alcohol-free life and to choose the right friends. It’s a great relationship and I feel that because of his leadership, I will succeed in life.” It wasn’t long after accepting his responsibility with the children that Guy returned to school, upgraded his high school education and enrolled at the University of Alberta (UA), where he completed his Bachelor of Education degree. “I enrolled in 1994 and in 1999 I completed my studies and went to work,” he said. Over the years, Guy’s been employed in several local schools, including St. Joseph’s and Mother Earth School. He’s also taught school on the Paul Band, at Maskwacis, on the Siksika Nation where he was vice-principal and on the Tsuu T’ina Nation near Calgary, where he took on the role as principal. “I wanted to honour my mother’s wishes to do something that gives back to the community and I realized that working with and teaching kids in the communities would allow me to fulfil that goal,” noted Guy, who said the final decision to enrol at the UA came after a meeting with Edmonton Police officer Jim White. Continued on page 10
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Alberta Native News
Child welfare
April, 2017
cont. from p 4
tables where decisions are made. One local and respected Elder confided that positive change might take place once all Canadians have the opportunity to understand Indigenous culture and history and become a part of the reconciliation process, but suggested, ‘don’t hold your breath.’ “Society has for far too long skirted the edges, taken the short cuts, and come up with a host of imaginary ways to keep Indigenous peoples at arm’s length,” he said. “If the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s recommendations come to fruition we might get the truth and with that would come a whole new perspective on what Canada’s successive line of governments have done to keep us poor, to keep us uneducated, to keep us on the edge of society. I think a lot of it has to do with the shame that many Canadians feel about what their ancestors did when they first arrived on the shores. “The child welfare system can work much better than it does, but that’s going to take a great deal of work - only when someone steps to the forefront and ensures the Indigenous leaders, professionals and citizens are not just included, but allowed to be full participants whenever decisions affect them, can positive change take place.” What is really needed is a set of fresh ideas and perhaps a better educated array of people to look after this important government portfolio. The Aboriginal community is loaded with well informed, educated and practicing professionals and they could play an integral role in helping to develop a child welfare system with a specific focus on cultural understanding and ensuring that Indigenous children placed in care grow to become healthy and successful adults. “This panel,” noted the Elder, “has a lot of politicians on it and that might be a good thing because without them you have no one to implement the recommendations, but it seems to me that you need to bring some families, some children, some Indigenous people who have experienced child services into the equation. If you don’t then how do you really know what those already in the system are experiencing.” One of the biggest failures of the system is that too many Indigenous children end up in non-traditional settings, many of which are harsh and unsettled environments from which it can be impossible to escape. In an April 5 interview with PostMedia, Danielle Larivee, the new Minister of the recently formed Children’s Services Ministry, admitted that so far no one has the answers of how to ensure that there are enough Indigenous families healthy enough and hardy enough to welcome children into their homes. “I don't know that we have the answers. I think that's the challenge,” said Larivee. “We haven't asked the right questions and we haven't gone to the people that have the answers. So that's what this is about, talking to our Indigenous partners: What are the barriers? What is happening? Why aren't those numbers going up? What resources do you need?” Hopefully those answers will soon be forthcoming because many of the 3500 kids in foster care and another 2,000-plus in kinship care homes need to know that they are safe and that someone is paying attention.
OP-HR-44
Jodell
cont. from p 9
“Everyone in the community looked up to him,” noted Guy, who once thought about pursuing a career in policing. “He told me that I’d have a lot of options, including policing, if I finished my education. He convinced me to stay in school and that’s a decision that I have never regretted.” Jodell also intends to finish his education before he thinks too far ahead. In the meantime, he’s just grateful for having positive role models in his life, a family that encourages him and stands by him and focuses on the positives rather than the negatives. “I have great support at home,” Jodell said, “and a family that not only cares but that is proud of me and what I have accomplished so far. I try to think positive and stay away from negatives and I am very happy to have some great like-minded friends who also have plans to achieve positive goals and lead successful lives.” Jodell Morin Strongman is taking advantage of his opportunities and he’s doing it with humility and grace. He likes working with his fellow students and he’s quick to share his ideas. He’s quickly becoming a positive role model at his school, in his community and on the basketball teams he plays for. Life is good when you work hard for it; congratulations Jodell!
April, 2017
Alberta Native News
11
UAlberta launches Massive Online Course: Indigenous Canada by Regan Treewater When asked what they know about the history of the land they live on, Treaty Six territory, most Edmontonians scratch their heads and admit to knowing very little. The histories and culture of First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples in the national consciousness bares a long legacy of revisionist distortions resulting from dominant colonial perspectives – and sadly, it is only these perspectives that many Canadians have been exposed to. The University of Alberta’s Faculty of Native Studies has taken a monumental step towards correcting the errors of colonial-centric education. On March 15, 2017, a team of a team of inspired educators and community members congregated to celebrate the launch of a massive open online course (MOOC) called, ‘Indigenous Canada.’ Lead Academic of the MOOC, Professor Tracy Bear explained the evolution and creation of the MOOC, “The Faculty of Native Studies allows Indigenous and nonIndigenous scholars a place to articulate and discuss social and political issues pertaining to Indigenous peoples. With the diversity of scholars, it is a safe space that has become a fertile garden of research possibilities. It was in this unique space, that gave all of us room to explore the project’s potential.” Together with fellow faculty members, local community members, students and exceptional alumni, Bear lead a motivated team of pedagogical visionaries to create a twelve-module online course designed strictly from the Indigenous perspective. The MOOC launch was celebrated with captivating flare. Attendees were greeted by a Métis fiddler and guitarist followed by distinguished speakers and cultural performances. The most enchanting of the performers was current Faculty of Law student Jenna Broomfield, a proud alumnus of the Native Studies program. As Broomfield took the stage, the audience was instantly seized by the sheer power of her traditional throat singing. Her voice, which resonated with pure intensity and strength, transformed seamlessly from guttural baritone reverberations to dulcet rhythmic chimes. It seemed impossible that these hauntingly complex and unfamiliar tones were all coming from this petit unassuming woman – at times it was as though she had been joined by ten more women at least. Next, a team of dancers in their powwow regalia coaxed bashful audience members into a ‘Round Dance’ accompanied by drummers – nobody remained sitting. “I’ve come to realize how paltry my own education was,” commented Ward 6 City Councilor Scott McKeen in an eloquent and reconciliatory speech in honour of the MOOC launch. McKeen, who described the experience of his first ceremonial sweat, reiterated the profound importance of projects like the MOOC.
This coming fall, University of Alberta students will be able to take the MOOC online for credit. However, the true innovation of the MOOC lies in its universality. “It was always intended to be open to the public.” commented Professor Bear, “Prior to any marketing and even before the MOOC launch, we already had over 3,000 people enrolled to participate.” Anyone, anywhere in the world, with nothing more than an internet connection, is able to avail themselves of this incredible resource free of charge. “Now if someone doesn’t know something it’s their own fault. We can’t take them any closer to the answers than this,” remarked Interim Dean of Native Studies Chris Anderson jokingly. Massive Open Online Courses are increasingly more popular because they are universally accessible and disseminate knowledge to all interested parties. ‘Indigenous Canada’ is academically rigorous and infused with cultural knowledge and histories shared by Indigenous ‘Knowledge Keepers.’ Students are exposed to selected core topics, such as: Indigenous worldviews, the fur trade, residential schools, Indigenous legal and political conflicts as well as contemporary art and culture. The content is visually mesmerizing, and it is clear that dry conventional lecturing has little place within this MOOC – sights and sounds play such a key role in this educational approach. Six paintings by Saskatchewan born Métis artist Leah Dorion were commissioned by the Faculty of Native Studies ‘Indigenous Canada’ organizers to convey the major themes of the twelve modules. The vibrant colours of Dorion’s oeuvre are an explosive convergence of history, culture and tradition. The images and figures seem to jump from the canvas with movement and tangibility. Professor Bear and her team searched extensively for an Indigenous artist to capture the spirit of ‘Indigenous Canada’, but “When we saw Leah’s portfolio there was something so magical and powerful about her work, we all just knew she was the one.” Dorion’s pieces, which were displayed proudly at the MOOC launch, will continue to be the principle images associated with the project. As many universities in Canada have begun to mandate Indigenous studies courses as a graduation requirement for undergraduates, the need for relevant and engaging courses has become a
present reality. Professor Bear explained in a later interview that although such prerequisites are vital for all progressive learning institutions in Canada, the mandating of these courses can present their own unintended adversities. By forcing students to enrol, there is the possibility of complacence, indifference and even resistance. While some students actively engage, often, pupils required to participate do not approach the curriculum with the same enthusiasm and passion as those taking the course as an elective. Bear believes that the ‘Indigenous Canada’ MOOC presents students with a dynamic alternative – one that can be approached on their terms. Students have the freedom to complete the modules at their own pace, giving them the freedom to be in charge of their own schedule. Ultimately this will leave students fulfilling graduation requirements with a better impression and a deeper understanding of the histories of Indigenous peoples and their fraught relationship with the nation of Canada. For now, Bear’s team has no immediate plans to expand the present ‘Indigenous Canada’ MOOC further. When asked if she intended to create more MOOC courses Bear chuckled, “That’s like asking someone who just went through labour when they plan on having their next child.” But with the explosion of passion and inspiration involved in the crafting of these twelve modules, it is clear that students, community members and interested online participants from around the world should remain ready for more exceptional innovations from the Faculty of Native Studies at the University of Alberta.
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Alberta Native News
April, 2017