Alberta Native News - Digital Edition - August, 2016

Volume 33 Number 08 August, 2016

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Cover art: Earth Woman Rising Š by Nancy Desjarlais

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Artist Nancy Desjarlais promotes positivity in life

by John Copley This month’s cover artist, Nancy Desjarlais, is a Plains Cree/Metis woman; she was born in Edmonton but her roots and her family hail from Anzac, Alberta, home of the Ft. McMurray #468 First Nation. A free spirit, guided by her desire to succeed and driven by her passion for life, Desjarlais has a clear perception of the world around her, and what she wants to accomplish in it. Residing in Edmonton with her husband Peter, Desjarlais spends much of her time creating the beautiful artwork that has enabled her to become one of the province’s best known and accomplished artists. She’s modest and quietly humble, though to the eye of the beholder a genius when it comes to both creativity and thought-provoking art.

“Cultural expression and the promotion of Indigenous tradition and lifestyle have always been important aspects of the work I do,” she noted in a recent interview. “I don’t always have a plan of action when I begin to create a piece of art, though I usually do have an idea in mind. It’s only when I’ve laid down the background for the piece that the whole picture begins to form in my mind. As I progress, the significance of what I’m trying to say becomes more important with each stroke of the brush. I like to incorporate nature in most of the work I do today because that’s where we can all find some peacefulness.”

Nothing in life, she noted, is accomplished through negativity.

“There are too many negatives in the world we live in today; it’s too easy to criticize so I try and find the good, not just in people, but in the everyday world we live in,” she explained. “It’s important to find and promote the good in people. It’s important to promote and appreciate what we have, even if we have little. No matter what ails us, there is always someone out there who is worse off than we are. Life is a gift and it can’t be treated with disrespect or indifference; we have to find the positives in everything we do and share those thoughts with the world around us.”

Desjarlais is a deep thinker with a somewhat passive

demeanour; she’s selfassured, bright and energetic, though in a quiet sort of way. Her background and ancestry have much to do with her passion for life and her understanding of the world around her, but perhaps it’s the painful memories of a childhood that for three years was dictated by the administrators of the Indian Residential School system that has helped her shape a caring nature that Artist Nancy Desjarlais poses with one of her beautiful heart mandala paintings. overcomes obstacles and enables her to carry out her devastation and destruction remains the order of the day?” daily plan.

Desjarlais is also passionate about her work with “Life is full of ups and downs and twists and turns but somehow we manage to overcome,” she stressed. “My children. As a substitute in the Edmonton Public school roots have indeed been a deep and indelible force that have system she works with special needs kids, many of whom not only given me some real insight and inspiration, but are Indigenous. It’s something that she really enjoys doing.

“Working with children and teaching them how to draw have also helped to guide me throughout my life.”

For the most part that “real insight and inspiration” is a very rewarding endeavor,” she said. “It’s great fun leaves the viewer of her work with the impression that all watching and working with them. I work with special is right with the world, primarily because Desjarlais has needs youth and kids who need some extra help, but as a always had a fondness for the wilderness, for the beauty of substitute I do not have the opportunity to really get to nature, for the trails in the forest and the footprints carved know them or to offer long-term solutions. My goal is just by creatures who’ve followed the same path since birth. to make sure that the children and the youth I have the As an Aboriginal person and an artist whose work often opportunity to work with have a good day, an enjoyable reflects the beauty of nature, Desjarlais is concerned about day that puts a smile on their face and a pleasant memory the environment and the negative impact that resource they can carry home with them.”

Desjarlais has always had a flair for art, learning to draw development is having on the forests and the fauna and the wildlife who call the wilderness home. She is passionate at any early age, and eventually putting her thoughts to canvas. Her mixed media creations often embrace and about the environment.

“I’m very very concerned about the environment. It’s all include the things that are particularly relevant to her life very frightening; how can the earth heal itself when Continued on page 18

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Peace Hills Trust art contest deadline: September 8

by John Copley It’s now or never for Indigenous artists interested in competing for the substantial prize money being offered to winning entries in the 2016 Peace Hills Art Contest, an annual event that is celebrating its 34th anniversary this year. The deadline has been set for 4 p.m. on September 8, 2016. See the website at peacehills.com or call 1.800.661.6549 for the full details. The website also has an application/entry form and an explanation of all requirements. There’s an adult and a youth competition; to qualify, contestants must be Indigenous, Canadian residents who have submitted a fully completed and signed Entry Form and an unframed two-dimensional work of art in any graphic medium, no larger in size than 4 feet by 6 feet. Adults may enter up to 10 works of art; youth may enter up to three works of art, all of which must be delivered to the Peace Hills Edmonton office on the 10th Floor at 10011-109 Street, at or before the deadline.

Entries must be ‘unframed’ paintings or drawings and may be done in oil, watercolour, pastel, ink, charcoal or any two-dimensional graphic medium. All entries are judged on the basis of appeal of the subject, originality and the choice and treatment of the subject, and the creative and technical merit of the artist.

Judges for the 20016 competition include Mario Swampy (Samson Cree Councillor), Terry Danyluck (University of Alberta Bears Volleyball Coach) and Debbie Semeniuk (Edmonton Public School Support Staff) The Peace Hills Trust Company (PHT), founded in 1980 by the Maskwacis-based Samson Cree Nation, launched the now-renowned Peace Hills Art Competition in 1982 to encourage Native artists from across Canada to develop, preserve and express their culture through artistic expression. 2016 marks the 34th year that the art contest has taken place.

“The annual art contest continues to be one of our highlights of the year,” noted Creative Director Erin Buffalo, who has been coordinating the art contest since 2013. “The competition not only allows Indigenous artists

from across our great country to compete with one another for prizes, it also promotes the significant contributions that each has made to Canada’s art scene.

The art contest comprises two main categories: Adult and Youth. The Adult category includes prizes of $5000 to the first place finisher with $3,000 going to second place, and $2,000 for third. Youth category winners receive $500, with $350 awarded to second place winners and $200 to third place finishers.”

Every October the artists who participate in the competition are invited to have their work on display at the Peace Hills Trust annual gala. Because of the overwhelming popularity of the contest, and because space is limited at the venue, the annual gala is an invitation-based event. All proceeds from the sales made at the annual gala go back to the artists who created the work.

Established in 1980, PHT has 35 years of experience serving the financial needs of First Nations and their members, corporations, institutions and associations both on and off reserve. Peace hills Trust also offers financial services to non-Native clientele.

Peace Hills Trust and its staff of nearly 100 employees currently serve a client base that exceeds 20,000 personal and business accounts. Wholly owned by the Samson Cree Nation of Maskwacis, Alberta, Peace Hills Trust, whose head office is located on-reserve, provides financial services to most regions of Canada through its network of eight Regional Offices and electronic services.

The annual art contest is just one of the ways that Peace Hills Trust promotes Aboriginal achievers. The company also offers scholarships, awards and bursaries via five different outlets, including the University of Alberta, Maskwacis Cultural College, National Aboriginal Trust Officers Association, National Indigenous Economic Education Fund, CANDO and New Relationship Trust.

The competition allows Aboriginal artists the opportunity to both show and sell their wares to interested art lovers and collectors. The products they produce also

Top: 2015 winner, "Journey Home" by Kalum Dan and Bottom: Second place winner, "Cree Girl in Regalia"

by Keith Nolan.

provide marketing opportunities for Peace Hills Trust, who utilize the artwork for their annual calendars and Christmas cards.

“It’s a great opportunity for both the artists and for Peace Hills Trust,” noted Buffalo, who praised the efforts of the many people who’ve worked diligently over the years to ensure that competing artists are able to glean maximum exposure from the annual initiative.

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Ottawa announces long-awaited National Inquiry into missing and murdered Indigenous women After decades of hard fought activism by families of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), grassroots activists and domestic and international advocacy groups, the Government of Canada announced on August 3, 2016 that it is initiating a national inquiry into missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls.

“The launch of this Inquiry represents a concrete expression of the government's commitment to honouring the lives of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls,” said Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Jody Wilson-Raybould. “By examining the root causes that have contributed to this national tragedy, including past and present systemic and institutional barriers, the Commission of Inquiry will play a pivotal role in helping all of us to define where best to continue to act to protect the human rights of all Indigenous women and girls in Canada.”

Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs, along with Minister Wilson-Raybould, and Patty Hajdu, Minister of Status of Women, announced the five commissioners who will lead the Inquiry as well as the Terms of Reference for the National Inquiry.

The commissioners are: The Honourable Marion Buller, Chief Commissioner and Commissioners Michèle Audette, Qajaq Robinson, Marilyn Poitras and Brian Eyolfson.

Minister Bennet stated, "For over a decade, the families of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls have been demanding action. After meaningful engagement with the families, experts and those with lived experience, I am proud that the Prime Minister, with the support of all provinces and territories, has appointed five outstanding Commissioners who will now be able to do the work needed for Canada to put in place the concrete actions necessary to put an end to this national tragedy."

"Today, we stand with the families of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls to ensure their voices are heard through all stages of this inquiry so that it leads to real action, change and some measure of justice for all those affected by this national tragedy," said National Chief Bellegarde. "We expect the Commissioners to act on their mandate in the broadest way possible to fulfill their responsibilities to the families and to Indigenous women and girls. We continue to press for immediate actions aimed at safety, security and ending violence for First Nations people while the inquiry does its work."

Since 2010, the AFN Chiefs-in-Assembly have passed seven specific resolutions calling for a national inquiry. The National Chief wrote the Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada as recently as July 12 stating that an inquiry must, amongst other principles, reinforce Indigenous rights and human rights, be consistent with United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and other international instruments, and ensure accountability to First Nations and families of Indigenous women and girls affected by violence.

"Too many lives have been touched by this horrific national tragedy," said AFN Women's Council Chair, Association of Iroquois and Allied Indians Deputy Grand Chief Denise Stonefish. "It is important that the Government of Canada has finally responded to the call for a national inquiry. Today's announcement is a direct result of years of advocacy and tireless grassroots activism by our incredibly resilient women. I lift up our sisters for this work, and I stand with them as we embark on what is sure to be a difficult road ahead and a necessary path on our journey."

Many reports and studies, including those by the United Nations, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights confirm that Indigenous women and girls are disproportionately at risk and point to the need for an approach consistent with international human rights standards. This includes state obligations for due diligence respecting the duty to prevent, investigate, remedy and provide reparations. The participation of the provinces and territories in the Inquiry is an important step in identifying and addressing the role of police and recommendations to correct and improve policing practices, policies and oversight.

AFN British Columbia Regional Chief Shane Gottfriedson, who oversees the AFN portfolio for missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, stated: "The

tragedy of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls is a national crisis and an international shame. Our stolen sisters, their families and communities deserve better. My hope is that the national inquiry will be a turning point in achieving justice for our stolen sisters and acting on root causes. Together, we must work towards reconciliation and to a safer and more respectful country not only for all First Nations but for all Canadians."

The First Nations Summit along with other advocacy groups welcomed the long-awaited launch of a nationwide inquiry into the tragic and urgent matter of Indigenous women and girls going missing or being found murdered across the country. However, the Summit and others are concerned that the terms of reference for the five-member commission may repeat mistakes of past processes.

“Today’s launch of a national inquiry into murdered and missing Indigenous women and girls is long overdue and is a matter that should be of great concern to all Canadians,” stated Robert Phillips, a member of the First Nations Summit political executive. “A highly disproportionate number of women and girls from our communities have gone missing over many decades, or have been found murdered. Often these cases remain unsolved, leaving families without answers or closure.

This injustice deeply hurts our communities and they deserve answers and healing.”

“The First Nations Summit has advocated for serious attention to be paid to this situation for many years,” said Grand Chief Edward John, also a member of the First Nations Summit political executive. “The First Nations Summit has remained highly concerned with this situation, and participated in the provincial Murdered and Missing Women Inquiry launched in 2010 led by Hon. Wally Oppal. We made a statement to the Commission, calling for a comprehensive examination into the violence experienced by so many women and girls from our communities across the province and country. We identified the need to shed light into the dark corners of such violence and its root causes, and to address the systemic failures of the law enforcement and justice system toward our people.

“Unfortunately, the scope of that inquiry did not address the full range of matters and limited participation by key groups. This lead to grave doubts about the thoroughness and effectiveness of the inquiry.”

“We welcome Minister Bennett’s commitment that the national inquiry launched by the Government of Canada will be an examination of the underlying and deep,

systemic challenges of violence, including racism, sexism and the sustained impact of colonialism. We encourage the Commission to be courageous in its examination, leaving no stone unturned,” said Cheryl Casimer, also a member of the First Nations Summit political executive. “Families deserve to know what happened to their loved ones, and it is absolutely imperative that systemic changes are made and measures taken to prevent and end violence against Indigenous women and girls.”

She added, “The First Nations Summit is deeply concerned that the terms of reference for the commission excludes critical elements, namely policing and compelling legal authority for provinces and territories to make this a truly national inquiry. We cannot miss this opportunity to get it right – to ensure that the scope of the commission’s mandate is inclusive of the entire system.

We strongly encourage the Prime Minister and Ministers Bennett, Wilson-Raybould and Hajdu to take measures to ensure the inquiry is comprehensive and inclusive.”

Grand Chief John added, “The First Nations Summit’s involvement and advocacy around missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls has been to unequivocally support the need for justice for the victims and their families, and to ensure that changes are implemented system-wide not only to prevent violence from occurring, but to also ensure supports are in place to support the dignity, survival and well-being of all our communities.”

He continued, “the Government of Canada’s unequivocal support of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples must help guide this important examination and inform the outcomes. The First Nations Summit will be closely monitoring the inquiry as it proceeds.”

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Alberta Native News

August, 2016

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Canada apologizes to Sayisi Dene (August 16, 2016) ― Sixty years after a devastating forced relocation by the federal government, the Sayisi Dene in northern Manitoba have finally received a formal apology and compensation for the incident. The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) honours the Sayisi Dene for their strength, resilience and determination in achieving this first formal acknow--ledgement from the federal government.

“We know that no apology or compensation can ever fully address the terrible hardship and loss of life inflicted on the Sayisi Dene, but we hope today’s events are a step towards healing,” said AFN National Chief Perry Bellegarde. “You cannot achieve reconciliation without truth. That’s why this apology is important. It acknowledges the severe assault on their children, their families, their human rights and Indigenous rights. This community was doing fine until the government forced them from their territory and then abandoned them. I lift up the Sayisi Dene for their resilience over many years and honour them on this achievement.”

In 1956, the Sayisi Dene were based around Duck Lake in Manitoba’s far northern region.

The province decided, against all evidence, that they were a threat to the caribou herds and the federal government re-located the Sayisi Dene 200 kilometres east, near Hudson Bay, on barren arctic tundra. They were promised employment and housing but neither was ever provided and the people were forced to scavenge, often at a nearby dump, for scraps of food and supplies.

The government moved them again a few years later to a location called Dene Village where there was housing but no heat, electricity or running water. The relocations were devastating to the Sayisi Dene, causing loss of life, social and cultural breakdown, starvation and poverty.

AFN Manitoba Regional Chief Kevin Hart said, “We all must acknowledge the truth of Canada’s history of forced relocations if we are to advance reconciliation.

The Sayisi Dene leadership and citizens have worked hard to reach this day and have approved the terms of compensation, including the apology. I stand with them in their decision. This is long overdue, but today is a day for all of us to commit ourselves to achieving justice and reconciliation.”

The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples provides in Article 10: Indigenous peoples shall not be forcibly removed from their lands or territories. No relocation shall take place without the free, prior and informed consent of the indigenous peoples concerned and after agreement on just and fair compensation and, where possible, with the option of return.

The Declaration recognizes many other rights of Indigenous peoples respecting their lands.

Carolyn Bennett, federal Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs, is travelling on August 16 to Sayisi Dene communities at Tadoule Lake and Churchill, Manitoba, accompanied by First Nations leaders, to deliver apologies and meet with Elders, youth and citizens. A third event takes place on August 17 in Winnipeg at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights.

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Aboriginal Construction Career Centre is off to a great start at NorQuest

by John Copley A NorQuest College Indigenous training, mentoring and employment initiative is proving to be even more successful than expected when the pilot project first launched in April of 2015.

“It’s been very busy around here this past year and we are both pleased and excited to note that we are passing our initial expectations,” smiled Ruby Littlechild, the Manager of the NorQuest-based Alberta Aboriginal Construction Career Centre (AACCC), which is funded by the Alberta government and is aimed at increasing opportunities for Indigenous and other workers seeking employment and /or wishing to pursue constructionrelated careers.

The initiative, which has partnered with various companies and corporations on board since its inception, is proving to be a valuable tool that is enhancing skills, creating employment opportunities and setting a precedent that Littlechild hopes will secure sustainable government funding well into the future. The program has already received its second-year funding of about $500,000 from the province and a number of smaller private industry donations.

“When we first launched the program.” noted Littlechild, “our projected one-year outcomes included adding 15 registrants each month, placing 150 workers in jobs, training another 150 workers in safety and other construction protocol and seeing 300 individuals receiving career coaching.”

Those figures have been surpassed, some have doubled while others have tripled expectations.

“As of August 2, 2016,” beamed Littlechild, “we have completed 1137 client intakes, placed approximately 900 workers in jobs and have watched as 2051 applicants completed their training courses.”

Female intakes to the program make up 24 percent (270) of the total; 74 percent or 536 of the intakes (men and women) are First Nation, Metis and Inuit workers.

“NorQuest College’s Alberta Aboriginal Construction Career Centre,” noted Littlechild, “is a unique, client focused employment service designed to connect prospective Aboriginal workers with employers recruiting for construction related careers. Space is provided at NorQuest’s Downtown Edmonton campus. We offer a safe, modern, comfortable and professionally equipped facility with a holistic, comprehensive career development resource centre for our clients. We also have a workshop room for cultural reclamation and career coaching stations with a complement of three full-time staff and one shared administrative support staff, all of which are located within NorQuest College’s career and employment services.”

The program’s Indigenous clients, she explained, come from across Canada and “include general labourers, scaffolders, welders, pipe fitters, steamfitters, carpenters, concrete finishers, plumbers, insulators, heavy equipment operators, mechanics, electricians, ironworkers, engineers and more.”

Littlechild, who referred to the centre as “a hub of community economic development,” said she can’t take credit for the numbers of people who have found employment during the past year.

“We are working together with some outstanding employment counsellors from organizations that include Oteenow, Bent Arrow, Stan Daniels Centre, Corrections Services, and Alberta’s ASET Holders, who all come here to help with resume building, job searches, job placements and more.”

“Our numbers of qualified workers have gone through the roof, and in the end everyone benefits,” noted Littlechild. “Working people are contributors; they pay taxes, they buy goods, they pay for services, they generate hundreds of millions of dollars and it all goes back into the economy. This initiative is also playing a role in establishing and maintaining Indigenous inclusion in the labour market, and that is very important today. Barriers are being broken down and this program is definitely playing a role in ensuring that Aboriginal people are not only accepted, but sought after as quality employees with knowledge, experience and a great deal to offer. We are involved in and encourage Indigenous awareness training to industry. We’re making a positive difference and we want that to continue well into the future. To ensure that that is the case, we are going to need sustainable funding and we believe our successful track record will help ensure

that this goal will be achieved. This is a win-win situation for everyone because working together we have the government, industry and an educational Ruby Littlechild, Manager of the Alberta Aboriginal Construction Career Centre at institution all collaborating, NorQuest College in Edmonton. all coming together to empower Indigenous people. We are not alone; we have strong partners and precedents that will carry us all into a better future.”

Continued on page 17 together we are making significant progress and setting

Connecting employers and Indigenous job seekers for careers in construction The Alberta Aboriginal Construction Career Centre (AACCC) is a facility that connects individuals seeking careers in the Alberta construction industry with employment services and supports, including skill development, safety and employability training, links to constructionrelated careers, and much more.

NorQuest College is committed to the development of collaborative partnerships with urban and rural Indigenous communities. The AACCC will support industry and provide a contribution into existing community resources that are targeting successful employment outcomes.

Connect with us today to learn how the AACCC can support you and your community.

Phone 780.644.5907 Email aaccc@norquest.ca www.aaccc.ca

A partnership between

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Alberta Native News

August, 2016

Glenbow's summer exhibits are a must see

by John Copley Calgary’s Glenbow Museum isn’t the largest of its kind in Canada, but it is most definitely one-of-a-kind and as such it is an attraction that readers will not want to miss out on this summer. A visit to the Glenbow can take place just about any time you find yourself in the downtown core of Canada’s third largest city, but there’s no time like the present, especially if you are interested in viewing the three major, but temporary exhibits currently being showcased on the facility’s second floor.

“We change our temporary exhibits three times each year,” explained Glenbow’s Vice President of Access, Collections and Exhibitions, Melaine Kjorlien, who noted that “two of our main temporary attractions will be winding up on September 18; one will remain until the new year. These three exhibits have been quite popular since they first opened in mid-June and will be of particular interest to anyone studying or wanting to learn more about Indigenous culture and tradition.”

As part of the Glenbow’s commitment to expand the reach and impact of art and culture in the community at large, it is offering several special access programs that assist visitors with the cost of admission. The Aboriginal Access Program provides First Peoples (First Nations, Inuit and Metis) with complimentary admission and the opportunity to reconnect with their heritage and ancestry.

If you are an Indigenous person, admission to the Glenbow is free and pre-registration is not required.

The Glenbow also has several permanent exhibitions, including the Blackfoot Gallery: Niitsitapiisinni: Our Way of Life. The Blackfoot share their story through interactive displays and artifacts and through a circular narrative path that guides visitors through Niisitapii history. This innovative permanent gallery, located on the third floor of the Glenbow, is the culmination of 10 years of collaboration and friendship and showcases artifacts and artwork from Glenbow's world-renowned Blackfoot

collections.

“This unique exhibition of Blackfoot culture and tradition,” explained Kjorlien, “was assembled with the input of the Blackfoot people. We worked with a team of Elders who told us their story and collaborated on what they wanted to say, and what they thought all visitors to the exhibit should know about their history.”

First Nations educators, taught by Blackfoot leaders, educators and Glenbow Museum's special summer exhibits include "Power in Pictures" (top) and Elders, offer education "First Person: Contemporary Indigenous Portraiture" (bottom). programs for students in Grades 3, 4 and 5. See the in the history of photography, book publishing, website at the end of this article for more information.

This fascinating collection of Blackfoot history, artifacts ethnography, and the history of the American West."

Curtis’s collection of photographs numbers somewhere and art work is a must-see exhibition for every student, between 40 and 50 thousand, noted Kjorlien. “The scholar, educator and historian. collection also contains a number of voice recordings and The second floor of the Glenbow is hosting three major interviews that discuss families, ceremonies and societies. exhibits, two of which will close in mid-September. They Curtis was an American from the Seattle area; it was include: “Edward S. Curtis: One Hundred Masterworks” through his own volition, and his own ideas that he and “First Person: Contemporary Indigenous Portraiture.” decided to study, record and portray the lifestyles and A third exhibit, “Power in Pictures: The Outside Circle and cultures of the Indigenous peoples of North America. He the Impact of the Graphic Novel,” will remain at the viewed Indigenous peoples as a vanishing race and he was Glenbow until next year. determined to capture their essence via photographs, “Edward S. Curtis: One Hundred Masterworks” was illustrations and recordings.

He spent a great deal of time organized by the Foundation for the Exhibition of in western Canada and met at length with the Piikani of Photography and is being curated by Christopher Cardozo southern Alberta and the Blackfeet of Montana. This and Todd Brando. Many of the photographs in this unique collection displays 100 iconic images, many on powwows exhibition date back to the and Indigenous ceremony.

Over the years some people late 19th Century and “today stand as a landmark Continued on page 15

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K-Days comes alive with powwow and Indigenous Princess Pageant

by John Copley A recent partnership between Northlands and the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation (ANSN) saw the creation of a 10-day powwow and an accompanying Indigenous Princess Pageant during K-Days 2016 from July 22-31. The event created a flurry of excitement throughout Alberta’s Indigenous communities and within the administration and staff at Northlands. From Day One through Day Ten each of the partners expressed their delight as the venture attracted hundreds of spectators and supporters and set the stage for many years to come. The working relationship between the community and Northlands staff has proven to be both positive and educational.

“It’s been a very exciting time for all of us,” noted Elder Percy Potts, who along with Elder Francis Alexis had spent the previous nine days working hand-in-hand with Festival Manager Amanda Frigon and other Northlands staff to ensure that powwow protocols were met.

“We learned a great deal from one another at this first-ever event,” added Elder Potts, “and the relationship we’ve built here this week will make future events much easier to prepare for. This has been a perfect and cooperative partnership and we could not have asked for better partners or better people to work with. The staff has been wonderful, the management ever-helpful and the facilities, both outdoors and inside (when it rained) have been prepared to meet our every need. We are already looking forward to next year.”

It was 1 p.m. on Sunday afternoon, July 31 and the stage was set as the three Indigenous Princess finalists prepared themselves to compete in the final round of competition. A day earlier each of the women recited their essays and answered impromptu questions from the six presiding judges whose votes would determine which one of the ladies would be crowned as the winner of the 2016 Northlands Indigenous Princess Pageant.

Pageant judges included Northland President/CEO Tim Reid, Board Chair Jeff Oberg, CFWE Radio personality Dustin McGladrey, Paul Band Elder Edna Rain, Calgary Stampede’s 2016 Indian Princess, Vanessa Stiffarm and Ruby Littlechild, Manager of the Alberta Aboriginal Construction Career Centre at Norquest College.

Host Drum for the Princess Pageant final was the incomparable Brocket, Albertabased, Crow Lodge Singers.

The three contestants, Serena Adams Roasting, Koann Wetchie and Britney Pastion each performed two different styles of dance; their totals were compiled and added to the previous days results by the judging panel. The winner was named as the final day of the powwow got underway.

The winner of the first Northlands Indigenous Princess Pageant is Britney Pastion (Beautiful Singing Earth Morning Star Woman), a member of the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation and a graduate of NAIT’s Radio and Television Program.

“I am honoured to be the first Northlands Indigenous Princess,” beamed Britney Pastion, as she received her crown. “In the next year, I hope to be a proud ambassador of our culture and community. This was a totally amazing experience and I thank each and every one of you for being here to support all of the contestants.”

“We are honoured to have such a tremendous ambassador for Northlands and the Indigenous community,” smiled Tim Reid, President and CEO of Northlands. “I look forward to working closely with Britney and members of the Treaty Six community and continuing the great work we have laid the foundation for during this year’s K-Days. It is my sincere hope that we can look back in 20 years and say this is the day we are most proud of.”

The pageant, launched in conjunction with the Traditional Pow Wow, showcased and embraced Indigenous culture in the spirit of reconciliation. Ms. Pastion will carry those ideals forward throughout the year as she acts as an ambassador of goodwill at Continued on page 11

Top: Stampede Princess Vanessa Stiffarm, Northlands Princess Britney Pastion, Northlands Board Chair Jeff Oberg, Crown co-designer Roxanne Susan and Northlands CEO Tim Reid.

Princess Pageant judges deep in thought.

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August, 2016

Rain or shine the Calgary Stampede Rodeo is a thrill

by Terry Lusty The Calgary Stampede rodeo never fails to entice visitors by the thousands. Despite many days of rain and showers, the show 'went on' making it quite a challenge for everyone involved.

One hundred and twenty cowboys from five different countries - Australia, France, Brazil, the United States and Canada were represented this year.

Bareback rider Ty Taypotat from Saskatchewan was back in the chutes again and won top day money of $5,500 on his first mount. The veteran rider, however, who has competed at the Canadian Finals Rodeo for the past couple of years, had to go up against renowned competitors such as Bobby Mote, Will Lowe, Jake Vold, Kaycee Feild and Dusty LaValley. Additionally, one has to factor in the luck of the draw. After all, both the rider and the stock are marked 50/50.

There were a few newcomers, three of them who are of Indigenous heritage from Brazil. The Brazilians - Fabiano Vieira, Robson Palermo, and Joao Ricardo Vieira – were all bull riders. A new Aboriginal face from the United States was Ryan Dirteater from Oklahoma. Along with Fabiano Viera, Dirteater managed to make it through the week, right into the Sunday 'showdown.'

One additional Brazilian, Marcos Costa, competed in the tie-down roping and also reached Sunday's 'showdown.'

In chuckwagon racing, the wagon from the Tsuut'ina First Nation, Grey Eagle Resort and Casino, driven by Kurt Bensmiller who won the Stampede's Rangeland Chuckwagon Derby for the last two years, just missed qualifying for the top four wagons in Sunday's final championship heat. For many of the outfits it was a bitter pill to swallow due to the muddy track conditions which can make a difference in how horses run and how drivers handle their wagons. That is where the safety factor comes in for both horses and drivers as well as the outriders. And, of course, the drivers want to run 'clean' and not take any costly penalties. Still, all in all, Bensmiller, among others, did well in day money for the times they placed at the top of their daily heats.

Two other veteran Aboriginal drivers, were Ray Mitsuing, former chief of Loon Lake First Nation in Saskatchewan, with over 30 years at the Rangeland Derby and Roger Moore, also from Loon Lake. Both managed to hold their own, making good day money through the week but not qualifying for the championship heat on the final Sunday.

In a brief interview with Mitsuing, he wholeheartedly agreed that the poor economy has played a definite role in the sport of chuckwagon racing. "Sponsorship is down and a lot of drivers are going to be struggling," he stated.

"For new drivers coming in, it's going to be tough for them."

As for the new barns at the grounds, most of the drivers are quite pleased. Mitsuing said, "They fixed up the barns here so nice now. No problems whatsoever." His son, Dean is off for the year but sons Dale and Devin are very much involved. Devin, he explained, is doing really well,

driving over in Saskatchewan where "he is sitting fourth" on the circuit. And Dale is outriding this year at the Stampede.

Mitsuing, who once won the Stampede's aggregate title and a brand new truck that became his pride and joy, never fails to apply the importance of racing penalty-free. Both he says are critical to winning where 1/100th of a second can make the difference and, of course, the importance of safety - for both the animals and the drivers, not to mention the positive image that it gives the sport itself.

Roger Moore has been a veteran driver of 25 years at Calgary and works in the oilpatch in the off-season.

When questioned about the impacts of the economy on wagon racing, he - like past champion Kurt Bensmiller - says the downward spiral has hurt "big time, it's been huge."

"It's been a tough year for everyone, everybody is hurting," he added.

The father of four says last year was one of his best. Overall he made a lot of day money and was close to the title had it not been for his knocking over one barrel. The costly fivesecond penalty is major in the business where mere fractions can mean a championship.

Moore has 16 horses in his barns but does not favor Pictured above: Tsuut'ina Nation Chuckwagon driver Kurt Bensmiller; any particular one.

Chuckwagon driver Roger Moore with one of his horses and Bull rider Ryan "They're all special to me," Dirteater from Oklahoma. he noted. "I could tell you a story about every one of these horses." Two of them any racing, he explained.

He has a wife and four children of whom, only one received special recognition in terms of the racing association's horse awards where both Arizona Dream and displays any true interest in the business. "It's a different age for the young guys," he stated. They are so caught up West Jet were winners.

Most of Moore's horses come from sales, either at in modern technology, games and what-have-you. "When Winnipeg or Saskatoon. He may pick up the odd one from we were growing up, all we had was horses," he Edmonton and nothing from Regina which doesn't have concluded.

August, 2016

Alberta Native News

K-Days Powwow

cont. from p 9

Northlands’ events, educating the community by teaching and sharing in the rich traditions, culture and heritage of Indigenous peoples.

Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation Chief Tony Alexis congratulated Princess Pastion and said he is pleased that the partnership with Northlands has created good will and positive comments from those who attended and participated. He thanked the community for its support, noting that he was delighted to see so many nonAboriginal people enjoying the powwow celebration and the crowning of the first Northlands Indigenous Princess.

“Many initiatives are currently underway across Canada to provide reconciliation opportunities between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people,” said Chief Alexis. “The addition of a traditional powwow to the KDays events and activities is yet another way in which we can highlight our rich and unique heritage. I am looking forward to a continued partnership with Northlands.”

The powwow was both educational and inspiring and attracted large crowds during each of the ten four-hour powwow sessions. Torrential rain caused a bit of anxiety and some confusion that was quickly overcome when Northlands staff came out in numbers to help powwow organizers move the event to a large and comfortable indoor venue.

“I don’t think anyone expected the rain to fall the way it did, but we are all pleased that Northlands already had an indoor location set up just in case of inclement weather,” noted Elder Francis Alexis. “I don’t think we missed a beat though - thanks to our crew and to Northlands staff - who were there to help us and to offer advice whenever we need them. I certainly can’t say enough about the great support and camaraderie that we’ve received from Northlands staff during the duration of our participation here. It’s been wonderful.”

Powwow Arena Director Richard Cardinal didn’t have much time to speak - or for that matter take a break during the Sunday celebrations as he rushed to and fro in his quest to ensure that everything ran as smoothly as possible. He succeeded. The entire day moved along as planned; once the Princess Pageant was complete, Cardinal worked in earnest to set up the numerous drums, line up dignitaries for the Grand Entry and the speaking podium and deliver the staffs and flags to the carriers who were to lead the procession into the powwow arena.

“His is a job that requires knowledge and experience,” noted Elder Potts, who spoke briefly about powwow protocol and the significance of the event itself. “A traditional powwow is an important undertaking and one that can’t be taken lightly. That’s why we insist that no drugs or alcohol enter the arena and that people indulging

in such activities are asked to leave. The powwow is a time for reflection, a time of peace within ourselves, a time to embrace our culture and our traditions, a time to heal our wounds, to overcome our grief and to count our blessings. When you are feeling down or otherwise having a bad day or a difficult time in life, and when you are not feeling good inside, the powwow is the place to be.

It’s where we come together as one; it is where we heal ourselves.”

“The powwow and the pageant have both been outstanding events,” expressed Tim Reid in a conversation following the Princes Pageant. “Jeff (Oberg) and I were talking at the judges table and we expressed just how proud we are of this entire initiative. We look forward to building an even stronger relationship with the Treaty Six First Nations as we move into the future.

Working with Chief Tony Alexis and his staff has been a wonderful experience and one I believe we have all learned from. We look forward to a long and lasting relationship.”

11

Elder Frances Alexis, AFN Regional Chief Craig Makinaw, Elder Percy Potts.

Northlands CEO Tim Reid and ANSN Chief Tony Alexis

Powwow dancers participate in the Grand Entry during the final day of K-Days.

2016 K-Days Indigenous Princess Britney Pastion and Calgary Stampede Indian Princess Vanessa Stiffarm.

12

Alberta Native News

August, 2016

CNFC Edmonton enhances the 2016 Heritage Festival

by John Copley The Edmonton Servus Heritage Festival is one of the most popular annual events that takes place in Alberta’s capital every year, a trend that was instigated in 1974, when the Government of Alberta declared the first Monday in August an annual holiday to recognize and celebrate the ethnic diversity of its citizens.

The event also brings much needed groceries and supplies to the Edmonton Food Bank. In fact, from 1984 through 2013 the Heritage Festival collected more than 1.4 million kilograms of food from generous Edmontonians and other Albertans who attended the annual three-day festival.

The Servus Heritage Festival, organized by the Edmonton Heritage Festival Association, is a very busy but delightful undertaking that gives visitors an opportunity to sample delicious ethnic food, see creative performances, shop for crafts and clothing, and learn more about the many countries that are represented. Each year between 275,000 and 400,000 people visit Hawrelak Park to enjoy the event and visit over 90 groups who have presented cultural pavilions at the Heritage Festival. This year more than 66 pavilions representing over 85 unique cultures joined together to share their food, entertainment and crafts.

“It was once again a very outstanding event - and but for a little rain and a thunderstorm that had us all scrambling for a little while, it was as good as it gets - and maybe even a little better for us because this year we may be able to break even,” noted Ron (Moon) Walker, Executive Director of the Canadian Native Friendship Centre in Edmonton.

“We’ve been participating in the annual festival for the past 30 years - it’s an event the whole staff gets excited about,” added Walker, noting that most of the cost of this year’s event will be covered, “thanks to fewer entertainment costs and a record number of sales of our popular bannock, buffalo burgers, skewers and refreshing mint tea.”

“It’s a lot of hard work, but it’s all very worthwhile,”

assured CNFC Finance/Administration Officer, Gloria Swan. “We’ve made a lot of friends there over the years and this year our sales were great; in fact we sold more bannock than we ever have before.”

Swan has been involved with the Heritage Festival for the past three years; she organized and operated the kitchen for two of them but this year a new kitchen manager/cook, Tracy Courtorielle, came on board.

“He’s fantastic,” she beamed.

“He just joined us this year and we are very happy that he did his bannock was so good that we had many people coming back for more. His recipe is out of this world. He made everything up in Throat singer Malaya Bishop and hoop dancer Lakota Tootoosis were two of advance and our volunteers the very talented performers at the Aboriginal Pavilion during Edmonton's cooked it. Tracy also made all of Heritage Festival. our buffalo burgers and buffalo skewers and left the place so field of entertainment today. He is awesome and energetic clean after the show that we had very little to do.”

The sale of the food items is actually a fund raiser, but and full of raw talent. After the festival here he went out to Saskatchewan where he participated in the John Arcand not necessarily a big moneymaker.

“This year, however, we may even break even,” noted Fiddle Fest.”

Young Medicine is a duo that includes entertainers Curt Swan. “The cost for entertainers was less this year and we Young and Jamie Medicine Crane. The two musicians sold more bannock than ever before; we made about 5,000 specialize in performance, workshops, keynotes speaking, pieces in total. This, combined with lower entertainment promotion and special event planning. costs, might even see us in the black this year; we usually “The artists sing, play guitar, cedar flute, harmonica, only recover about half our costs but if we do make any hand drum and rattle,” noted Walker. “They use money it will go right back into the budget for next year’s contemporary and traditional styles of Native fancy Heritage Festival.” dancing to share stories and inspirational messages The first day of the festival got underway when Inuit throughout their performances.” throat singer Malaya Bishop took to the podium.

Curt hails from the Salteaux-Cree from Gordon’s and “She is a wonderful Cowessess First Nations in Saskatchewan while partner performer with a beautiful Jamie is Blackfoot from Kainai and Piikani Nations in voice and great stage Alberta; she is also an educator, dancer, model, fashion presence and the crowd designer and musician. wasn't afraid to show their Hoop dancer Lakota Tootoosis was another performer appreciation; they clapped that wowed the crowds at this year’s event. and cheered loud and “Once again I have to use the word ‘awesome,’ because hard,” said Walker. “We he is certainly nothing less than spectacular,” emphasized had some outstanding Walker.

“We were very fortunate to be able to get him this performances this year, year.

We also hired a male Grass Dancer and a Traditional including those from Metis Dancer and they were also a sight to behold. The audience fiddler, Danial Gervais and loved their performances.” the ever-popular duo, Walker is also dancer; he specializes in the Chicken Young Medicine. We also Dance, something he’s been doing for nearly three had a very talented group of decades.

He remembers hoop dancer Tootoosis in his young powwow dancers, younger years. many of whom joined us at “I remember when I was working as a liaison with the our powwow sessions at Edmonton Catholic schools and he was one of the up-andthe Friendship Centre this coming kids who was learning the powwow and enjoying year.

They gave his culture.

And now he is a major player on the powwow demonstrations of the circuit and as skilled an entertainer as you will find different dances and really anywhere; he is inspirational and he enjoys sharing our wowed the crowds with culture with the world.” their energy and expertise.”

The CNFC, which came into being in 1962, was Walker lauded the work organized to help Aboriginal newcomers to the city with of Daniel Gervais, who he referral services and social and recreational programs. It called “one of the up and was, and remains, a gathering place for meetings, social coming musicians in the Continued on page 15

Young Medicine duo, Curt Young and Jamie Medicine Crane

August, 2016

Alberta Native News

13

Calgary Stampede opens new Indian Village

by Terry Lusty Heard All Over is her traditional Indian name but to visitors, staff and others at the world-famous Calgary Stampede, she is known as Vanessa Stiffarm, the 2016 Calgary Stampede Indian Village Princess.

The 26 year-old jingle and fancy dancer hails from the Kainai First Nation in southern Alberta. She explains her name as coming from the sound of thunder, something one can hear all over.

Not only is she heard all over, she has also been travelling and seen all over - the world, that is.

Upon being declared the 2016 Indian Village Princess last October, Stiffarm was invited as a special guest of the 2016 Grey Cup football final in Winnipeg last November,

Powwow Dancers in beautiful traditional regalia.

"an experience I'll never forget," she exclaimed.

Since then, she has visited such distant parts of the world as Australia, Germany and England in addition to many points of eastern and western Canada "where I performed jingle dances."

For Stiffarm it has been The new Indian Village at Enmax Park made its debut at the 2016 Calgary quite the emotional rollerStampede with 26 tipis representing the five Nations of Treaty 7. coaster ride. "I am truly blessed and humbled to have this opportunity," she added. River.

Today, 2016, it sits on land that is approximately two She understands that she not only represents her home community, the Kainai First Nation, but, "all of Treaty and-a-half times larger than its former site. Back in the early 1960's the property served as a parking lot. Now Seven, the Indian Village and the Calgary Stampede."

"It's an incredible honour to carry this title," she stated. situated between Scotsmans Hill and the Elbow River, it Raised by her parents and grandparents, Stiffarm always presents luscious green grass lawns and trees, the Cenovus admired the Calgary Stampede's Indian Village Princesses Legacy Trail with signs that offer historical Native history and she cherishes her existing relationship with other to visitors as well as a rainbow trout art-piece, plenty of Stampede royalty, in particular Stampede Queen Maggie recreational and picnic space and two new contemporary Shortt and her two princesses - Bailee Billington and buildings.

One of the buildings - the Sweetgrass Lodge - is a Chelsey Jacobson.

Today she does her best to encourage First Nations facility made possible thanks to a 3.5-million-dollar people, especially youth, "to strive for success and goals commitment from Suncor Energy. Within the new while retaining their own traditions and culture." It is her structure is space for washrooms, change rooms for responsibility, she feels, to inspire others the way she, dancers and other performers, office and storage space, herself, has been inspired by her own experiences that plus an area for craft sales and, of course, that ever-popular food staple, bannock. The bannock booth is a main have resulted from her role as the princess.

On Thursday, July 7, the Stampede proudly opened the attraction with frequent long line-ups.When not in use for new site of the Indian Village in the extreme northeast Stampede events in July, the new structure will corner of the grounds at the backside of Penngrowth accommodate educational programming such as Native culture, history and traditions.

Saddledome.

This year the spacious village again hosted its usual The very first Indian village was created in 1923 at the Sun Tree Park, the area that now plays host to singers, live daily activities, such as: arts and crafts vendors; concerts and entertainers at what is called the Coca - Cola drumming, singing and dancing; traditional foods; Stage. Fifty-one years later, in 1974, the village relocated storytelling; open houses (for tipis), and more. to an area south of the grandstand, and across the Elbow

14

Alberta Native News

August, 2016

Major reforms are needed to protect vulnerable Indigenous children Two reports were released last month that point to inadequacies in the provision of services to Indigenous children and families in the province of Alberta. The Office of the Child and Youth Advocate (OCYA) completed a Special Report on the overrepresentation of children and youth in the intervention system (child welfare system) and has publicly released the results and recommendations.

On the same day (July 19, 2016) Alberta’s Auditor General Merwan Saher released a report identifying inadequacies within the Department of Human Services in its delivery of child and family services to Indigenous children in Alberta.

“The over representation of Aboriginal children in the child welfare system in Alberta is among the highest in Canada,” stated Provincial Child and Youth Advocate Del Graff. “Significant reforms are needed, and should be based on a renewed partnership between Government and Aboriginal people. The voices of Aboriginal people must be heard.”

From January 2015 to January 2016, information was collected from over 700 stakeholders through small gatherings, interviews, and online surveys. Children, youth, Elders, caregivers, and other groups shared their perspectives about what was important to them before, during, and after their involvement with the child welfare system.

With first hand perspectives and additional research, the Child and Youth Advocate identified a number of systemic issues that contribute to the overrepresentation of Aboriginal children in Alberta’s child intervention system.

“The recommendations in this report must be acted on to improve supports and services for Alberta’s Aboriginal young people.” concluded Graff.

He emphasized that the intent of Special Report is not to find fault with specific individuals, but to identify and advocate for system improvements that will help enhance the overall safety and well-being of children and young people who are receiving designated services.

Alberta Auditor General Merwan Saher's findings were consistent with the report and recommendations issued by the Office of the Child and Youth Advocate.

“We identified three areas where the department can improve its performance, thereby increasing the chances for Indigenous children to experience improved results,” said Mr. Saher.

“Improvements start with understanding the unique needs of Indigenous children and communities. From that point, relationships can develop that are based on respect

and understanding, and sustainable change can occur.”

Saher indicated that although the department has systems in place to provide child and family services to Indigenous children and families in Alberta, these systems need to be improved.

“The report acknowledges the hard work being done throughout the system but concludes that too often jurisdictional and other limitations have resulted in weak processes to meet the needs of Indigenous children. Put simply, Indigenous children in care experience less favourable results than nonIndigenous children.

While there are complexities surrounding the delivery of child and family services to Indigenous children, there is important work the department can do to make meaningful improvements.

The report includes three recommendations, one for each of the key findings: Enhance early support services; Ensure a child-centred approach; and Strengthen intercultural understanding.

The AG report states that the continuum of care provided to the most vulnerable children and their families is vital work, and the consequences are tragic when the system fails. Long-term social costs are great. Indigenous children receiving services experience greater risk. “As Alberta plans for a future of reconciliation and improved quality of life for Indigenous children, we must learn from past failures to ensure that the well-being of every Indigenous child is safeguarded and enhanced. The system must focus on the child.”

The Ministers of Indigenous Relations and Human Services issued the following statements in response to the Auditor General’s and Child and Youth Advocate’s reports on Indigenous children in

care.

“Front line workers strive to help at-risk children in Indigenous communities, but it’s clear the status quo isn’t working,” stated Richard Feehan, Minister of Indigenous Relations. “We need to think differently and have real, community-driven conversations about how to close the gap. We must work towards clearer policy, more reliable funding, and a child-first approach fully consistent with Jordan’s Principle.”

Irfan Sabir, Minister of Human Services added, “Every child deserves the opportunity to thrive in a loving, caring environment and reach their full potential. The overrepresentation of Indigenous children and youth in care is an issue that we must address. While the number of Indigenous children and youth in care has decreased in recent years, there is more work that needs to be done.

“Our government is committed to providing culturally appropriate support to Indigenous children in care to ensure their safety and well-being. We accept the Continued on page 17

August, 2016

Alberta Native News

Glenbow Museum

cont. from p 8

have claimed that some of his work was flawed in that it didn’t capture spontaneous events but instead was shaped to “suit the occasion.”

Curtis' core mission was to safeguard and preserve the 'sacred legacy' of Indigenous peoples for future generations by creating a permanent record of their lives in photographs, film, sound, and text. Today this work stands as a landmark in the history of photography, book publishing, ethnography, and the history of the American West. The collection from which this current exhibition is drawn comprises over 3,000 vintage Curtis photographs and related objects. Edward Curtis was born in 1868.

“First Person: Contemporary Indigenous Portraiture” features a collection of work by contemporary Indigenous artists from across Canada who use portraiture as a powerful gesture of both self-expression and selfdetermination. The collection features works by KC Adams, Carl Beam, Michelle Latimer, George Littlechild, Kimowan Metchewais, Kent Monkman, Jane Ash Poitras, Skeena Reece and Jeff Thomas.

This collection is based on artwork that utilizes photography, film and/or video in its making.

“This exhibit,” noted Kjorlien, “is a collection of contemporary Aboriginal images created by today’s amazingly talented Aboriginal artists and represents the provocative thinking of today’s masterful artists. In First Person, contemporary Indigenous artists are using the camera and the images it produces to create works of art that interrogate the complexities of identity, legacy and the mercurial power of the image.”

“Power in Pictures: The Outside Circle and the Impact of the Graphic Novel” is the culmination of a series of workshops hosted at Glenbow that connected young people from USAY (Urban Society of Aboriginal Youth) with artist Kelly Mellings, illustrator of the graphic novel “The Outside Circle” by author Patti Laboucane-Benson.

“This exhibition,” explained Kjorlien, “included a lot of different workshops with youth - who had a lot of input and ideas about issues that are affecting them, and society

15

today. Healing and the healing process was one of the key topics discussed.”

“The Outside” is an important graphic novel that tells the story of two Aboriginal brothers surrounded by poverty, gang violence and drug abuse and their attempt to overcome generations of historic trauma. They are attempting to bring "Edward S. Curtis - One Hundred Masterworks" is on exhibit at Glenbow Museum positive change into their in Calgary until September 18, 2016. lives and they have different ways of doing so.

The story is powerful, courageous and deeply moving. history but also as a living record of contemporary life in “The Outside Circle” is a product of the author’s 20 years this part of the world. Our collecting priorities respond to of work and research on healing and reconciliation of our community and over the past 50 years, the collection gang-affiliated and incarcerated men. has shifted and adapted to incorporate new voices and “The Outside Circle and the Impact of the Graphic perspectives. Our collection includes over a million Novel” is a smaller exhibition but it delivers a large and objects, documents, photographs and artworks, making very interesting look at young people and the issues they Glenbow one of the largest museums in western Canada.” are dealing with today.

Last year, more than 125,000 visitors passed through Youth participating in the project were encouraged to Glenbow's doors, including more than 65,000 school tap into their own creativity to create comics and masks children who took part in School Programs and the that drew on their own experiences to tell a story. A shared Glenbow’s Chevron Museum School. and collaborative space, the gallery features the art created The Glenbow Museum began with the remarkable by the USAY participants hung alongside that of the artist vision of petroleum entrepreneur and lawyer Eric Lafferty who taught them, creating a space where complex feelings Harvie. Mr. Harvie came into his fortune when oil was and experiences are explored through art. discovered on the land to which he held the mineral rights, As a key cultural cornerstone in Calgary for 50 years, with the discovery in Leduc in 1947 and in Redwater in Glenbow has surprised and engaged generations of 1949. With this prosperity, he decided to pursue his Albertans and visitors to the province with remarkable favourite passion - collecting - and simultaneously return connections between art, culture and the world around us. some of his good fortune back to the region that had been Glenbow provides us with a sense of place - what it means so generous to him. Mr. Harvie's goal was to collect the to live in this amazing landscape - and an appreciation for objects that represented the history and culture of Western the legacy of the remarkable people and events that have Canada as well as from around the world. One visit to the shaped our community.

Glenbow will tell you that those goals were accomplished.

“Glenbow's collection,” notes the museum’s To learn more about the Glenbow Museum and its outstanding website, “represents Western Canadian art current and future exhibitions, see the website and culture, both as a repository of important cultural at: glenbow.org.

CNFC

CNFC Executive Director Ron Walker and Finance Officer Gloria Swan.

cont. from p 12

events, and community gatherings. Today, the Centre continues to provide cultural, recreational and social programming. The organization serves more than 10,000 people annually through various programs, services and functions.

The vision of the Canadian Native Friendship Centre is toward an integrated, selfreliant Aboriginal community who participate as urban citizens taking responsibility for

Alberta Native News provides Maximum Reach throughout Indian Country in Alberta and all of Western Canada!

Not only do we distribute our print edition throughout the western provinces but our digital copy is available free of charge at albertanativenews.com.

We will make sure your advertising dollars gets the most mileage.

For more information contact Ben at 780.421.7966 or email natnews@shaw.ca.

their shared condition in a spirit of health, cooperation and wellness within a strong cultural base.

For more information, see the website at: cnfc.ca

16

Alberta Native News

August, 2016

Digging Roots was a Folk Festival highlight (ANNews) – Another stellar Edmonton Folk Festival wrapped up on Sunday night August 6, with great music, a wonderful atmosphere and the natural amphitheatre of Ghallagher Hill that makes it a truly unforgettable experience. An electrifying performance by the energetic and soulful Nathaniel Rateliff and the Night Sweats closed out the festival with thousands of satisfied festival goers pledging their return next year.

On Saturday Digging Roots gave a powerhouse performance at one of the side stages. The group includes husband and wife Raven Kanatakta and Shoshona Kish.

Digging Roots showed off their versatility in an eclectic workshop before their main performance – going from jamming with an African American Roots Choir to trading ripping guitar solos with Grammy award winning guitarist Albert Lee.When it came time for Digging Roots to be in the spotlight, they opted to share it with unscheduled blues duo The Harpoonist & The Axe Murderer. Digging Roots

flaunted an incredible balance of flirtatious, energetic swagger, all while taking a stand on important social issues.

Their performance featured the songs “Cut My Hair” about the residential schools and the healing power of music, and “Hwy 17” that takes a stand against violence in light of the national crisis of Digging Roots addressed some social issues during their performances at the missing and murdered 2016 Edmonton Folk Music Festival - singing about Indian Residential Schools and Aboriginal women. The spreading their message that love can defeat violence.

Photos by ANNews underlying message of the performance: love can defeat violence. “Our greatest act certainly doing their part by spreading joy and love of resistance is to be joyful and loving,” said Kish. They’re through inspired and original music.

New report sets stage for discussions between Ottawa and the Metis Nation (July 21, 2016) — Today, Métis Nation of Alberta (MNA) President Audrey Poitras offered her thanks and appreciation to Mr. Thomas Isaac - Canada’s Ministerial Special Representative (“MSR”) on Métis Section 35 Rights - for his helpful and thorough report on how to advance reconciliation with the Métis Nation.

Mr. Isaac’s report, entitled, “A Matter of National and Constitutional Import” was publicly released on July 21 and comes after he was appointed in June 2015 to meet with the MNA, other Métis Nation governments, provinces, territories and other interested parties in order to assess the current state of affairs and provide independent advice and recommendations on a “way forward” on Métis Section 35 Rights. A copy of the report is available at www.albertametis.com.

Mr. Isaac’s report makes 17 recommendations and includes key findings that should guide future federal action on Métis Section 35 Rights issues, including, the need for:

• The development of a Section 35 Métis Rights Framework that will be implemented with Métis governments such as the MNA who represent Métis rights-holders that meet the legal framework set out in the Supreme Court of Canada’s Powley case.

(Recommendation #16) • Métis inclusion within existing federal claims processes available to other Aboriginal peoples or the development of a new Métis-specific claims process to address unresolved Métis claims flowing the “the Cold Lake Air Weapons Range and its effects on Métis harvesting activities, … the implementation of Dominion Lands Act [Métis] scrip commissions … and various claims against governments for the failure of the Crown to consult with Métis” (Recommendation #9 and MSR Report at p. 30) • A ‘whole-of-government’ approach for improved information and knowledge about the Métis Nation and Métis Section 35 Rights amongst federal officials and Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada regional offices, including improving federal Crown-Métis consultation processes through negotiated agreements.

(Recommendations #1, 4, 5, 10, 11) • Timely, stable and long-term federal funding to support Métis governments like the MNA, including permanent support for the MNA’s centralized Registry that has registered over 35,000 Métis citizens and Section 35 Métis Rights-Holders throughout Alberta since 2004.

(Recommendations #2, 6) • A comprehensive review of existing federal programs and services available to Indigenous peoples as well as all future federal initiatives to ensure they deal with the Métis

distinctly and equitably, including avoiding lumping the Métis in with non-status Indians or dealing with Métis through pan-Aboriginal or urban Aboriginal policies.

(Recommendation #3) In addition to his recommendations to the Government of Canada, Mr. Isaac noted the ongoing “irritation” the previous Alberta Government’s policy on Métis harvesting rights continues to have on Crown-Métis relations. Specifically, Mr. Isaac wrote: “The 2004 interim Métis Harvesting Agreement (2004 Agreement) between Alberta and the MNA recognized the Métis right to harvest for food by members of the MNA at all times of the year on all unoccupied Crown lands throughout Alberta without a licence. In 2007 this agreement was terminated by Alberta and replaced unilaterally with a policy that recognized 17 Métis communities north of Edmonton to harvest generally within a 160km radius of the community. The termination of the 2004 Agreement is a significant irritant for the Métis in Alberta. This in turn affects who Alberta consults with regarding potential adverse effects to Métis harvesting rights. Alberta, the MNA and the Métis Settlements General Council should discuss and attempt to resolve the termination of the 2004 Agreement so that the ultimate framework to manage Métis harvesting rights in Alberta is based on Mutual agreement, as the 2004 Agreement contemplated.” (MNR Report, p. 23) President Poitras commented, “I am very pleased that Mr. Isaac’s report, which recognizes the MNA’s ‘comprehensive citizenship registration system’ as well as our ‘well-developed program and service delivery systems’ for all Alberta Métis. What is apparent in his report, however, is the need for progress with the MNA on Métis rights, Crown consultation and self-government issues. We look forward to working with the Government of Canada as well as the Alberta Government to advance these issues of fundamental importance to Alberta Métis.”

The MNA is the representative government of Métis Nation citizens and Métis across the province of Alberta.

For more information visit www.albertametis.com.

August, 2016

Children

Alberta Native News cont. from p 14

recommendations in the reports of the Auditor General and the Child and Youth Advocate and will work with their offices, as well as Indigenous communities, as we examine opportunities to implement them and improve the way we help Indigenous children and youth in this province.”

Chief Richard Kappo, Grand Chief of Treaty 8 First Nations of Alberta (T8FNA) added his voice to emphasize and support the recommendations contained in the two reports.

"Following an extensive engagement process regarding the overrepresentation of Aboriginal young people in the child welfare system, the OCYA special report made a set of recommendations that the T8FNA fully supports."

Grand Chief Kappo continued, “Many of these recommendations are the exact solutions the Alberta Treaty 8 Chiefs and the Directors of the Delegated First Nation Agencies on reserve have said for many years. It has long been a contention of T8FNA that the provincial child welfare system and the federal funding methods actually encouraged and enabled removing children from their families and communities.”

“There has been a change in government in this country and we are very hopeful about a new relationship, but in many ways much has remained the same. The old government was content to set up policies that hurt our children, families and communities and we are still feeling the effects of these policies,” stated Deputy Grand Chief Rupert Meneen. “The new government has made a commitment to implementing UNDRIP and the Truth and

Career Centre

cont. from p 7

Littlechild, who joined NorQuest in February 2015, is a former Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA) employee who has a great deal of experience creating and operating mentoring and outreach programs. She is also committed to the encouragement of higher education, and has played an ongoing role as a mentor for First Nations people. She earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of Alberta and completed her Masters in Education degree from Gonzaga University in 2012. She is currently working on her Masters in Business Administration.

There are many reasons why the program attracts so many would-be construction-related workers and Littlechild said that one of the main reasons is because of the quick response the AACCC gives to those who come in looking for a career opportunity.

“Men and women who come here want to work and they want to work as soon as possible. We don’t keep people who want to work waiting; we don’t have a sixweek waiting period like many others do. For example, we have a lot of people coming in who have expired tickets

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Healing waters at Lac Ste. Anne

Some devotees gather to pray at the foot of the statue of Ste. Anne while others wade into the healing waters of the lake during the 2016 Lac. Ste. Anne Pilgrimage.

Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action to strengthen the relationship processes. We agree with those actions and recognize the need to do so but we need to see a solid commitment on the part of Alberta and Canada.”

Grand Chief Kappo also commented “The Chiefs of

Treaty 8 (Alberta) are committed to working with our Federal and Provincial partners to correct previous wrongs and work to close discriminatory gaps and practices. We are ready to start working together so that, we don’t lose any more of our children.”

and they want to have them renewed. No one wants to wait six weeks to have a ticket renewed; they want to work tomorrow so when they come here with a letter from an employer telling them to renew their tickets and then they can be put to work, we get on it right away. Within a few days, if they pass their tests, the tickets are renewed.

There is no waiting period, no delays - that’s been one of the key factors of our continued success. We’ve had a lot of positive feedback from workers who came here on a Monday or Tuesday and found themselves in training the next day.”

One of the numerous testimonials offered by Littlechild came from Ariel Garley, who wrote: “I was recommended to the AACCC by a staff member at the Stan Daniels Healing Centre. I was seeking advice and assistance because I wanted to acquire safety tickets for some short term employment. When I walked into the centre I was greeted with a positive atmosphere full of energy and opportunity. I was able to speak with a great career consultant who not only assisted me in attaining the tickets I came for, but also helped me think about my long-term goals and what I would need to achieve them. Once my short term employment ended I returned to the centre. The

consultant saw potential in me and set up an interview with the management at Park Derochie. They also saw my potential and not only offered me full-time employment, but an opportunity for a career as a fire proofer. My life has been turned around and thanks to the staff at the AACCC I now see a very bright future ahead."

“At NorQuest College,” noted Littlechild, “our aim is to contribute to the increasing demands of the economy and to maximize opportunities that others may not see. The program offers a learning environment that embodies diversity while offering real world experiences. The AACCC’s goal is to empower, enrich and transform the lives of our clients by providing real world experiences to the most under-utilized but eager segment of our potential labour force.”

The Alberta Aboriginal Construction Career Centre is meeting and in most cases exceeding its initial goals. For more information about the AACCC or to learn how you can prepare for a construction-related career, contact Ruby Littlechild at 780-644-5907 or send an email to: ruby.littlechild@NorQuest.ca

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Nancy Desjarlais

Alberta Native News cont. from p 2

and her culture. Trees, rocks, leaves, birds and other forms of wildlife and natural materials often form a part of her work.

“I didn’t really start painting at an early age,” she explained. “In fact, I was selling moccasins at a crafts fair and needed some way to increase business. I decided to paint a few small pictures and put them on display. I was amazed when they sold so I did a few more. I participated in a lot of trade shows after that and never had any problems selling my work.”

That comes as no surprise. One look at her collection of paintings on her nancydesjarlais.blogspot.com website is enough to convince the most discriminating buyer that her work is not only breathtakingly beautiful, but also as down-to-earth as it gets in the world of art.

Desjarlais enrolled at University of Alberta in 1989 where she earned her Bachelor's Degree in painting and printmaking. In 1993, she won both the first and third prizes in the annual Peace Hills Trust Native Art

Dancing Bear © by Nancy Desjarlais

August, 2016

competition. A couple of years later she earned a special mention and in 2009 her painting, “Spirit Horses Running on Rough Terrain,” won another first place in the renowned Peace Hills art competition.

In 1995, she moved to Vancouver Island.

“I knew that I was moving to a place where I could find accessible forests and abundant waters; these are the things that my spirit craved,” she noted.

It was there that she developed her mixed media style and technique.

“Inspired by the ocean and the petroglyphs close by,” Medicine Bear © by Nancy Desjarlais she painted a series of work that focused on those part of my life,” she said. “Their presence adds a great deal themes.

Nancy’s paintings include seascapes, portraits, semi- of fun in our lives. When Peter and I want to have a laugh abstracts, and visionary images in watercolour, oils, and we talk about something they did or said.”

“I have no regrets moving from the beautiful coast back acrylics. She is best known for her mixed media work to Edmonton,” she added. “Being close to my sons, with acrylics and sand in which she often “inscribes” grandchildren and extended family is very important to marks or symbols into the mixture. me.”

“While I was at university, I was able to experiment with In offering advice to aspiring artists and the people that different kinds of medium,” she explained. surround them, Desjarlais concluded, “It is important to During the past decade and half Desjarlais has been support youth and children who wish to pursue art either working mainly with acrylic paint and sand mixed as a part-time venture or as a career choice. This is together. particularly necessary when to comes to family, friends, “I can mark the piece using the end of my paintbrush or even school teachers.

Many people don't support artistic a comb, then add paint once the sand and mixing gel has development because they feel that creating art isn't a dried. This form of mixed media can be layered or lightly viable occupation and in many cases this is true but at the sculpted and is both playful and meditative.” same time, creating anything is good for the spirit. If you She also draws and paints with watercolours. find art is a passion of yours, you'll also be able to find “My subject matter includes petroglyphic imagery, other things you can use to supplement and earn an mandalas and meditative figures, tricksters and mythical income.

It is necessary to pursue your passion - whatever beings (and) because I lived on the coast for many years, it is.

If you are happy, good opportunities will come to some of my work incorporates images of the sea, the you. forests and the islands that lay somewhat mysterious and “Take a good walk through your neighbourhood and silent against a backdrop of waves and wind and seagulls you will find beauty in almost every corner of it. Take a in the sky.” walk in a wild area - in the woods, in the forests and find Nancy and her husband the beauty of nature, the colours of life and the Peter returned to Edmonton magnificence of what lies in front of your every step. To so that they could be closer succeed you have to believe in yourself, just as you have to family.

“My to believe in others.” grandchildren are a large

To advertise your business, employment opportunity or community event, contact Ben at 780.421-7066 or natnews@shaw.ca.

August, 2016

Alberta Native News

Making Treaty 7 returns to Calgary Calgary, AB - Focusing on the history and legacy of the signing of Treaty 7 in 1877 between Queen Victoria and the First Nations of Southern Alberta, the groundbreaking, transformational, theatrical production “Making Treaty 7” returns to Calgary at the Grey Eagle Resort & Casino for three evenings of celebration, inspiration and learning from Wednesday, September 28 to Friday, September 30, 2016.

This cultural, multidisciplinary performance brings to life the promise of Treaty 7 – the time in Alberta’s history when land was assigned, assurances made and a better future promised to everyone. Using contemporary and traditional art and performance, the play takes its audience on a journey through history to better understand the true spirit and intent of the treaty, while investigating the consequences and the implications Alberta faces today.

“The performance combines history and celebration. It is an important educational and reconciliation piece that we believe is integral for our communities to see and understand how We Are All Treaty People,” says Michèle Stanners, Executive Director, Making Treaty 7.

Lead by newly appointed Artistic Director Troy Emery Twigg, the presentation showcases an array of award winning actors, writers, poets, composers, musicians, dancers and singers. Included are the artistic talents of Director Michelle Thrush; Musical Directors Kris Demeanor who also plays a role in the performance as well as leading his Crack Band and Anders Hunter and the Eye Hay Nakoda Drum Group; and a number of special guests.

“Stories depicted in the performance are inspired by Elders and by true events of Alberta’s Indigenous communities. We’re thrilled to have curated such a talented line-up of performers able to bring this powerful story to life through theatre,” says Troy Emery Twigg, Artistic Director, Making Treaty 7.

At the June 2015 Making Treaty 7 stakeholder gathering, Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi addressed the importance of understanding that Albertans are all Treaty People, whether their ancestors have been here for thousands of years, or their family has just arrived.

“Through the powerful medicine of the arts we hope to share the stories that heal and Empower,” says Director Michelle Thrush. “Stories that have been held deep in the land and are now being woken up. Stories that bring people together to build stronger community relationships and create much needed conversations, Making Treaty 7 tells Heart stories.”

Educational and entertaining, Making Treaty 7 tells a fundamental story of Alberta’s past, brings hope for reconciliation among all Treaty people, and inspires new relationships across cultures and generations, long into the future.

To purchase tickets to the performance, or to learn more about Making Treaty 7 please visit: www.makingtreaty7.com

Prairie Equity Scholarship announced The Jim Pattison Broadcast Group has announced its 2016 Prairie Equity Scholarship competition; aimed at Broadcast students in the Prairie Provinces who are part of under-represented groups.

The Equity Scholarship was instituted in 2009 to address the shortage of broadcasters from four groups; Aboriginal Peoples, Persons with Disabilities, Members of Visible Minorities, and Women. The Jim Pattison Broadcast Group believes that by supporting the career development of these groups, the industry will access an untapped pool of potentially talented employees, encourage diverse viewpoints and backgrounds, enhance relationships with local communities, and broaden the advertiser and audience base.

This year, two $2000 awards will be made to residents of Alberta, Saskatchewan or Manitoba who, in 2016, are attending or planning to attend a recognized Broadcast Program at a post-secondary institution in one of those provinces. Applicants can access a scholarship information and application package at the websites of the Prairie stations of the Jim Pattison Broadcast Group, or through the Broadcast Programs at Prairie post-secondary institutions. Deadline for applications is October 8th, 2016—with the award to be announced in November.

This year, the scholarship initiative is supported by the following stations of the Jim Pattison Broadcast Group: 101.5 KOOL FM, Calgary; Wild 95.3 FM, Calgary; Big West Country 92.9 FM, Drayton Valley; 102.3 NOW! FM, Edmonton; Up! 99.3 FM, Edmonton; Big Country 93.1 FM, Grande Prairie; Q99 FM, Grande Prairie; Country 95.5 FM, Lethbridge; B-93.3 FM, Lethbridge; 102.3 FM CJNS FM, Meadow Lake; CHAT 94.5 FM, Medicine Hat; CHAT Television, Medicine Hat; MY96 FM, Medicine Hat; Q98 FM, North Battleford; 1050 CJNB AM, North Battleford; 93.3 The Rock FM, North Battleford; Mix 101 FM, Prince Albert; Today’s Country 900 CKBI AM, Prince Albert; Power 99 FM, Prince Albert; BIG 105.5 FM, Red Deer; 106.7 The Drive FM, Red Deer; B-94 FM, Rocky Mountain House; QX 104 FM, Winnipeg; .3 The Drive FM, Winnipeg For further information visit www.chattelevision.ca or www.my96fm.com.

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Alberta Native News

August, 2016