Alberta Native News - Digital Edition - January 2018

Volume 35 Number 01 January, 2018

Distributing in Alberta and across Western Canada

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Cover art: The Beauty Ways Š From "Stories from the Bush: Traditional Teachings Calendar."

For information see article on p 7 or visit www.circleteachings.ca

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Alberta Native News

January, 2018

Alberta’s Future Leaders program is seeking mentors for summer 2018

By John Copley The Alberta Sport Connection (ASC) is putting out a call for self-directed young adults or post-secondary students who enjoy working with youth and would like to participate as a team member of ASC’s Alberta Future Leaders Program (AFL). This initiative partners the ASC with Alberta’s Indigenous communities, the Alberta Foundation for the Arts, the RCMP, and corporate sponsors to provide youth aged 9 through 20 with new experiences, positive role models, opportunities to build confidence, overcome barriers and realize their potential through sport, art, recreation, leadership and cultural programming.

“This unique initiative,” explained Sport Consultant and AFL Program Coordinator Scott Grevlund, “creates lifechanging opportunities for both our AFL Mentors and for the youth they work with throughout the four-month long summer program in the host community.”

The goal of the program is to promote active, vibrant Indigenous communities, where local sports, recreation, arts and leadership experiences inspire youth to become positive leaders. If you are a self-directed individual who has experience in leading and involvement in sports, the arts, recreation, volunteerism and leadership initiatives, an exciting opportunity awaits you this summer when the Alberta Future Leaders Program gets underway across the province. Application deadline is February 25.

Mentors come from many backgrounds and over the years have included athletes, artists, former youth who participated in the program in their community and many other experiences. The positive attitudes, active lifestyles and the endless energy that mentors bring to the community fosters strong relationships with local youth and helps enable them to also become positive role models and inspiring youth who make a positive difference in their communities.

Since its inception in 1996 the AFL Program, has

partnered with over forty Indigenous communities in Alberta, created more than one million participant hours of The 2017 Alberta Future Leaders program had a great impact on Indigenous programming and has Youth in many communities. Applications are now being accepted for mentors positively affected the for the summer of 2018. The deadline is February 25. lives of thousands of Indigenous youth.

–Goodfish Lake and the Kikino and Buffalo Lake Metis The five key components of the initiative include: Settlements.

Intensive Mentor Training, Role Modelling, Program, “The program runs from May to August,” noted Camps and Trips, Leadership Camp and Partnerships. Grevlund. “Our AFL Mentors are employees of the host That initiative continues yet again this year as the Program community who will work as in-community mentors who gets ready to launch its 22nd year of partnering with will teach and share meaningful life skills through Alberta’s Indigenous communities. The Alberta Sport activities, special events and field-trips. Depending on the Connection's unique program helps build leaders, nurture needs and aspirations of the community involved, we offer talent, and enhance community wellness. The programming that can include such things as organization takes great pride in playing a role that helps canoeing, drama, baseball, visual arts, music, archery, develop "life-changing" opportunities for Albertans, volleyball, hockey, basketball and more.” whether it's helping someone develop their physical Last summer the AFL program had a tremendous literacy skills, earn a coaching certificate, promoting youth impact on Indigenous Youth in the participating development or participating in the AFL Leadership communities as youth participated over 7200 times in a Retreat. variety of programs that included physical activity & The Alberta Future Leaders Program (AFL) is a sports, arts & culture and other special events. Over the community and youth development program that uses years AFL Mentors have run everything from campfires, sport, recreation, arts and leadership activities to provide cultural camps and art programs to rafting trips and Indigenous youth with active, positive opportunities. hockey tournaments; activities are based on the unique Entering into a three-year partnership with the AFL needs of the host Indigenous community. program, partner communities host two trained AFL “Every community has different needs and as such we Mentors who run youth-focused activities and trips each work together to offer flexible programs that meet the summer from May to August. needs and the requirements of each community,” noted Each summer up to 10 Indigenous communities are Grevlund. “All of our programs are designed to promote accepted into the program and two AFL Mentors are physical fitness, healthy eating, positive lifestyles and placed in each community. AFL promotes and encourages active communities.”

Indigenous youth to engage in active, positive, healthy, Though all youth in the communities are encouraged creative lifestyles. In the summer of 2017 participating and welcomed to participate, the average age of communities from across community youth participating in the program ranges the province included the between the ages of 9 and 16.

Dene Tha’Bushe “We have two mentors in each community and partner River, Tallcree First with up to the 10 communities each year,” explained Nation, Whitefish Lake Grevlund, who said the program is currently seeking 18First Nation #459 - 20 Mentors for the 2018 program.

Atikameg, Sucker Creek The Alberta Future Leaders program provides a First Nation, Heart Lake valuable holistic experience for the Mentors, who get as First Nation, Whitefish much or more from their time working with a community Lake First Nation #128 Continued on page 10

A Summer Job That Makes A Di erence U

Use your sport, arts, recreation, leadership experiences to positively engage with Indigenous youth in AFL host communities, while participating in cultural experiences unique to each community.

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AFL is looking for Mentors who have these types of qualities, skills and experiences:

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https://albertasport.ca/programs/future-leaders-program The deadline to apply is February 25, 2018

January, 2018

Alberta Native News

3

Alberta looks to engage with Sixties Scoop survivors The Government of Alberta wants to hear from survivors of the Sixties Scoop and their families to help inform a meaningful apology.

The province and the Sixties Scoop Indigenous Society of Alberta (SSISA) will hold engagement sessions in six locations across the province between January and March.

“Healing can only begin when we truly understand this heartbreaking historical injustice,” stated Danielle Larivee, Minister of Children’s Services. “That’s why we need to listen to survivors and families about what a meaningful apology should look like. These sessions are an important opportunity to learn from survivors about how the Sixties Scoop has impacted Indigenous communities and inform the actions we will take moving forward in the spirit of reconciliation.”

The sessions will focus on learning from survivors about how the Sixties Scoop impacted them, to help shape what a meaningful government apology will look like.

“We need survivors and their families to be involved in this process for us to better understand how the Sixties Scoop affected their lives, how an apology could unfold

and how to give it real meaning and depth,” added Richard Feehan, Minister of Indigenous Relations.

The dates and locations for the engagement sessions are Jan. 18 - Peace River, Feb. 1 - St. Paul, Feb. 7 - Fort McMurray, Feb. 14 – Lethbridge, Feb. 21 – Calgary, and March 1 – Edmonton.

“This engagement process will give survivors of the Sixties Scoop an opportunity to be heard. I am pleased with our partnership with the Government of Alberta and our collaborative work towards healing and reconciliation for survivors and their families,” added Adam North Peigan, president, Sixties Scoop Indigenous Society of Alberta. “We look forward to listening to survivors help shape a government apology for the Sixties Scoop.”

All sessions run from 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. (cultural ceremonies at 7:30 a.m.) and are open to the public. Those who cannot attend in person are welcome to submit input online. Visit alberta.ca/SixtiesScoopApology for more information.

The Sixties Scoop refers to a period of time in Canada when an unknown number of Indigenous children were

NWAC dismayed with ongoing issues with National Inquiry The Native Women’s Association of Canada says it was “shocked and outraged” to learn that after just three months on the job, Debbie Reid, Executive Director of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls has resigned.

Her departure is the most recent high-profile loss for the Inquiry, which has suffered from a high turnover rate in the past year losing over 20 people to firings, resignations and layoffs since February.

In announcing Reid’s departure from the National inquiry, no details were offered but she was thanked for her contributions. The Inquiry assured that the work will not be disrupted during this time of transition. Director of Operations Calvin Wong will act as Interim Executive Director effective immediately.

In a statement the Inquiry emphasized, “We will continue to build on the significant progress achieved last year in the Truth Gathering process that has shed light on this national tragedy through community hearings, expert panel hearings, institutional hearings, commemoration and research.

“We have a sacred responsibility to the 597 families and survivors who have entrusted the National Inquiry with their truths and the 600 more who are registered to do so.

Commissioners and staff are united by a deep commitment, and we are working diligently to prepare for

our next two community hearings in Yellowknife on January 23-25, 2018, and Rankin Inlet on February 20-22, 2018.”

The NWAC leadership expressed concern for the survivors of violence and with the families of the missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls “who are again having to endure very upsetting news from the Inquiry. These families have faced insurmountable obstacles coming to terms with personal tragedy; this resignation creates instability and a further setback at the National Inquiry.”

NWAC has been following the progress of the National Inquiry and has issued two report cards with failing grades in almost all key areas. NWAC made definitive recommendations to improve communications, transparency and most other areas of the Inquiry. “These recommendations were made in hopes of bringing the direction of the Inquiry to a more successful pathway.

The continued lack of

Investment in First Nations Policing a welcome move On January 10, 2018, Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale announced that Canada will be investing up to $189.2 million in funding over five years and ongoing, beginning in 2018-2019, in addition to budget 2017's commitment of $102 million to policing in Indigenous communities over five years. The Minister also committed to examining ways to improve the effectiveness of the First Nations Policing Program.

Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Perry Bellegarde says the additional federal support for the First Nations Policing Program (FNPP) is necessary and critical to ensure safety and security for First Nations and First Nations police forces and police officers.

"Our primary concern is safety and security for First Nations, our families and First Nations police officers," said National Chief Bellegarde. "This funding will help ensure First Nations police officers and staff will have the tools necessary to do their jobs. These officers already put their lives on the line and should not have to face additional risks because they don't have proper equipment. We want our police forces to be supported and funded at the same levels as other police forces in Canada and deemed an essential service. I lift up Minister Goodale for taking a significant step in the right direction."

The First Nations Policing Program has been an urgent priority for First Nations, with many agreements set to expire at the end of March. The announcement of funding over five years ensures these programs can continue.

AFN BC Regional Chief Terry Teegee, who holds the Justice Portfolio for the AFN, stated: "This is an important recognition of the role First Nations police forces play in our communities. Improving security and policing in First Nations communities will benefit everyone. We welcome the announcement and look forward to working together on the next steps."

taken from their parents, families and communities by child intervention services and placed with mostly nonIndigenous families. As a result, thousands of children lost touch with their families, communities, culture and traditional language. communi-cation with families and with NWAC points out the operational issues at the National Inquiry. NWAC is deeply concerned that the ongoing operational failures will damage what remaining trust and belief families may still have in the inquiry.”

NWAC strongly believes that in order for the National Inquiry to be a success, it must re-examine its administrative issues and operations. “Most importantly, survivors and families of the missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls must come first. These families are left in the dark and are learning the on-goings of the inquiry through sporadic and at times anecdotal communications. It is imperative that the National Inquiry’s leaders implement a clear and robust strategy for transparent communication to benefit families and achieve a successful outcome.”

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Alberta Native News

January, 2018

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A racist voice in Canada’s Senate

By John Copley

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Indigenous Canadians have had a very tough road to hoe during the past couple of centuries and just when it appears that progress is taking place and truth and reconciliation is becoming a reality, up pops another negative voice to throw a wrench into what many Canadians and Indigenous leaders believe has been a slowly turning but forward-moving wheel of progress.

This time the voice belongs to Ontario Senator Lynn Beyak, who was appointed to that esteemed position in 2013 by then-Prime Minister Stephen Harper. Maybe that explains it because the dissension she brings to the table is laced with a strong smell of racism, denial, historical ignorance, orchestrated explanation and rhetoric that defies reality. Her bias, unfounded diatribe and refusal to face reality has already cost her a seat in the Conservative caucus but there’s still one step to go - she needs to be removed from the Senate. It is impossible for her to fulfil her duties as one of Canada’s 105 senators, especially in light of the fact that the Canadian Senate’s purpose is to consider and revise legislation, investigate national issues, and most crucially according to the Constitution - give the regions of Canada an equal voice in Parliament.

Equality cannot be found in the offensive statements with racial undertones made by Beyak since her appointment to the Upper House of Canada’s Parliament; statements that include the comments she made shortly after Ottawa reorganized Indian and Northern Affairs Canada last summer.

“Let's stop the guilt and blame and find a way to live together and share,” Beyak stated, suggesting that First Nations “trade your status card for a Canadian citizenship, with a fair and negotiated payout to each Indigenous man, woman and child in Canada, to settle all the outstanding land claims and treaties, and move forward together. All Canadians are then free to preserve their cultures in their own communities, on their own time, with their own dime.”

Beyak, born in Ontario in 1949, has no understanding of right and wrong, especially when it comes to the comments she’s made about Canada’s Aboriginal citizens.

Since being appointed to the Senate Beyak’s reputation has been sliding into the abyss. Once lauded for her business acumen in both the insurance and real estate industries, Beyak has now become a scourge of the nation, disliked by her fellow senators, chastised by her own government, put in her place by Canada’s Indigenous leaders and ridiculed across the nation in headlines and articles that portray her as a condescending, unrepentant social miscreant whose words are not only opening old Shanghai Grill Restaurant requires 1 Cook (6322) in Edmonton $15 / Hr, 40 Hrs / Wk, Employee free meal, start as soon as possible Indigenous people, Newcomers to Canada, Apprentices Perm, FT, PT, Morning, Day, Evening, Weekend, Night, Flexible hours Required: English (Cantonese & Mandarin as asset), Secondary (high) school graduation certificate or equivalent experience, 2 years to less than 3 years’ experience, own transportation.

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wounds, but also tearing new rifts in what has been a slow but steady movement toward long-sought reconciliation.

Among other comments she’s made during the past four years Beyak has referred to Pierre Trudeau’s 1969 White Paper on Indian Policy as “brilliant” and that the “good deeds” of “well-Intentioned” Indian Residential School workers were discounted by a Truth and Reconciliation Commission that put too much emphasis on the premeditated and systematic plan to rid Indigenous people of their languages, cultures and sense of self-worth through constant beatings, starvation, the eradication of personal liberties and decades of medical, mental and physical experimentation that embraced verbal, sexual, mental, emotional and psychological abuse.

Political, social and Indigenous leaders from across the country have expressed everything from disbelief to outrage that a Canadian Senator could be as socially and historically ignorant and incorrect as Beyak has proven to be.

There is no simple solution to the Beyak problem; as a Senator she can sit almost untouched, until she’s 75 years old. That means unless something is done she can sit back for the next seven years and collect her $140,000 a year salary before resting on her laurels with the big fat monthly pension cheque that will accompany her retirement.

Removing Beyak from the Senate may prove to be more difficult that the average Canadian may realize – unless she makes false claims on her residency, defaults to public lenders, is convicted of a felony, declares bankruptcy or fails to show up for two consecutive sessions of Parliament.

In a statement, Carolyn Bennett, the Minister of CrownIndigenous stated that it's "disappointing" the Conservative leadership failed in preventing Beyak from using her position as senator to “espouse her ill-informed and offensive views about Canadian history.”

She went on to note that “although Senator Beyak has been finally removed from the Conservative caucus, it is more than disappointing that her appointment by the Conservatives allows her continue to use parliamentary resources to validate the views of those who refuse to accept the truth and propagate the misinformation and prejudice that continue to feed racism in our country.”

Beyak most recently used her Senate webpage to post “letters of support” which contained racist comments about Indigenous Canadians.

"Many of these letters contain a great deal of misinformation as well as outright racist stereotypes that have no place in our tolerant and inclusive society," Continued on page 6

January, 2018

Alberta Native News

5

Westmount Junior High promotes a wonderful community of learning

By John Copley Last month we offered our readers a look at Prince Charles Elementary School, Principal Judy Toews, music teachers Judy Gatto and Garry Lee and the dozens of children who, as budding musicians with a great deal of talent, participate in the school’s music program and perform at various community venues throughout the school year. All three educators spoke with pride about the children attending the school and emphasized the important role that music was playing in the lives of so many of the school’s young students.

They also mentioned that many of the children who leave Prince Charles to enter Grade 7 choose to attend Edmonton's oldest junior high school, Westmount Jr. High, located at 11124 130 Street.

One reason is that Westmount also has an outstanding music program. Garry Lee has been participating there for a couple of years now and really enjoys “seeing the kids move from elementary to Jr. High and watching them transition into even better musicians and young men and women is a wonderful thing.”

Westmount Principal Rick Stanley seconded that comment and spoke enthusiastically about the school.

“I love coming to work every day,” he explained.

“Seeing and working with our team of excellent and caring teachers and interacting with students makes me tick. It’s heartfelt - this is a great place to be.”

Rick Stanley has been working in the school system since 1995 when he began teaching Social Studies at Britannia School. He then spent 12 years teaching at Jasper Place High before moving to Centre High Campus in downtown Edmonton where he established the very successful Aboriginal Students 30 Program. That was followed with a two-year term as Assistant Principal at Eastglen. He has been the principal at Westmount Jr. High School for the past four years.

“I wouldn’t want to work anywhere else but here with the EPSB in Edmonton,” noted Stanley. “This is where I want to be. The culture created by our superintendent (Darryl Robertson) and our leadership is outstanding; it’s a great environment.”

Assistant Principal Nouha El-Ali has been at Westmount for the past two years; she was previously at J. Percy Page High School where she served as both a counsellor and the assistant department head of two different offices.

“I love this school and the environment that it offers to both staff and students,” she said before hurrying off to complete other duties.

Westmount offers language instruction in both French and Cree; 107 students are enrolled in the Cree Program, including about 15 non-Indigenous students, a sure sign that reconciliation is part and parcel to learning throughout the EPSB school system.

“We aren’t the only school teaching Cree but we do have a very prominent Cree-speaking program,” noted Stanley, one of the first Edmonton-based principals to introduce the Cree language program at his school.

Lots of students are attracted to the school because of its

music programs but the Fiddle Program is just one of more than 50 option classes offered at Westmount and as such the Fiddle Program isn’t as Westmount Jr. High School Principal Rick Stanley with music program students large as the one at Prince T'Keyah Desjarlais, Rickal LaFontaine and Reilly Manyshots.

Charles.

“Also,” noted Stanley, Before our meeting had concluded I learned that all “when kids get into junior high many of them become three live in proximity to the school, are enrolled at interested in other areas of pursuit and they often explore Westmount at least in part because of the music program, more goal and career-oriented subjects and ideas. Those are supported, encouraged and recognized for good all who choose to remain involved in the Fiddle Program do attendance and achievement by their families and all are very well.” experiencing positive relationships with the teachers and In fact, like the students at Prince Charles, Westmount’s who they say are “caring, considerate and concerned staff Fiddle Program participants take their music into the about student well-being.” community; their latest venture took place in December Continued on page 11 when about 20 students gave a presentation at the Royal Glenora Club to a large of delegates group attending a Christmas Party and Insurance Seminar.

“Another in a list of successful outings,” noted Stanley, who praised the student musicians and noted that the feedback from the event “was positive, gracious and appreciated.”

Indigenous students make up 42 percent of the school’s approximate 300 population and number more than 115 in all. I met with three of these students during my visit to Westmount; each was a former student at Prince Charles and each continues to participate in the Fiddle Program and music classes.

“All three are very successful students,” noted Stanley, before our introduction. “They have good grades, excellent attendance and are prominent members of the Fiddle Program.”

With that entered Rickal LaFontaine and T’Keyah Desjarlais, two 13-year-old Grade 8 students and 14year-old Grade 9 student, Reilly Manyshots.

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Alberta Native News

January, 2018

Connecting to her roots allowed Grade 6 dropout to flourish

By Jordan Cook, University of Alberta (University of Alberta) - When Kourtney Boucher was in elementary school in High Level, she loved school and looked forward to going to class each day. But a move to a new town and a new school in Grade 6 changed everything.

The new girl, Boucher started being bullied for being First Nations, by both Indigenous and non-Indigenous kids.

“Most of the bullying stemmed from stereotypes and racism and it got to be too much for me,” Boucher explained. In a small town with no other schools to switch to, things became so bad that, at age 11, she dropped out.

Initially, when Boucher refused to go to school, her mom was angry: “At first she tried to force me to go to school, but she’s a single mom raising four kids while working two jobs, so she’s a bit of a pushover. I knew if I just toughed it out and stood my ground for a little bit, eventually she’d give in.”

Despite her youth, Boucher spent her years out of school working. First as a babysitter, looking after her niece so her older sister could attend high school. Then, as soon as she was old enough, as a retail associate. But as the years went by, Boucher knew she needed to make a change.

She’d always dreamed of being a doctor, and she knew that to get there she’d need to get an education.

“I’ve always loved school, so that was still there. It was more depressing not being in school, because I knew that’s what I really wanted to do.”

When she moved to Fort McMurray in 2007, Boucher started attending Keyano College and working toward her high-school equivalency. While there, she became involved in student government, sitting on the board of governors and becoming president of the Aboriginal student association.

“The period that I wasn’t in school felt so meaningless to me; I was working dead-end retail jobs and it felt like I had nothing going for me. So that’s what encouraged me

Senate

cont. from p 4

Minister Bennett and Minister Jane Philpott stated.

"Government resources should never be used to promote hatred and divisiveness. It concerns us that, by being hosted on the official website of the Senate of Canada, these offensive comments could be construed to

to immerse myself in student life and student committees at Keyano and find my niche.”

She completed her high-school equivalency and started taking university-level courses at Keyano before transferring to the University of Alberta in 2014 to continue working toward her dream of becoming a doctor.

Her experience with student groups in Fort McMurray, along with the encouragement of a friend, led her to apply to the Peter Lougheed Leadership College in 2015. The two-year embedded academic program is taken in conjunction with an undergraduate degree - in Boucher's case, a bachelor of science.

However, in spite of how far she’d come since dropping out of school in Grade 6, those early years of being bullied still had an effect on her self-esteem. It wasn’t until she started connecting back to her culture that she started to overcome her feelings of worthlessness and shame.

“I’ve always been a shy person, ashamed of my background, so it wasn’t really until I came to U of A and took my first Native Studies class that I really accepted who I am and was able to break out of my shell,” she said.

She attributes a lot of her success to finding support circles on campus, like the Aboriginal Student Services Centre, where she connected with Elders and other Indigenous students, while also deepening her connections to her traditions.

Boucher met her Auntie Doris, who also returned to university after dropping out of school, and took inspiration from seeing her walk a similar path. “I’ve spent a lot of time with her, and she took me for my first sweat, my first sweetgrass picking, and so just spending time with her really encouraged me.”

Now, as she graduates with a BSc, Boucher is considering all her options.

“Everything I’ve done since being at the U of A has been to get on track to be a doctor. But since I’ve been here I want to broaden, I want to do more. My end goal is still be endorsed by Parliament.”

In a letter to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, TimmonsJames Bay NDP MP Charlie Angus called Beyak’s ongoing and disparaging remarks an "egregious abuse of public office” and noted that “in terms of what can be done now in the absence of any clear tools of accountability I would remind you that as prime minister your words carry

Kourtney Boucher dropped out of school at age 11 because of bullying. Now she's graduating from university with pride in herself and her First Nations culture.

(Photo: Richard Siemens, University of Alberta)

medicine, but now I want to maybe take a few years off and do social work. I’m so interested in so much, and at the U of A, I’ve realized it doesn’t have to be a straight path to get from A to B, you can detour a bit.”

Her plans to explore different options connect back to her own experiences as a shy and bullied child, and to her current life as the mother of a four-year old.

“I really want to work with Indigenous students in school so they feel supported to graduate. I feel like if I had had more adult support, maybe things would have been different for me. So I’m hoping that maybe I could be that support.” As a volunteer at her son’s Aboriginal Head Start program, Boucher is already working toward this goal.

Looking back on her own early experiences in education, Boucher has advice for students going through similar difficult times.

“I would definitely say find someone you can talk to.

Even a school counsellor, or aunties, uncles, cousins. I didn’t talk to anyone about it, no one knew what I was going through, I just closed up. I wish I would have opened up and had someone to talk to. So that’s what I would say - reach out.”

This article was originally published in the University of Alberta publication Folio (folio.ca). an enormous moral weight.”

He urged the Prime Minister to speak with Liberal and independent senators to address “Beyak's fundamental unfitness to serve as a representative of the Canadian people.”

He wants to see senate reform happen quickly because it isn’t working the way it is set up today.

“Given Canada's constitutional shortcomings regarding the Senate,” noted Angus, “there is no credible system of checks and balances to limit her ability to utilize the enormous resources of the Senate to engage in this spurious campaign of hateful misinformation. There was no credible vetting process to determine if this person was even fit to sit in the Senate in the first place. If the Senate is to play any role as a credible political force in the 21st century, these glaring shortcomings must be addressed.”

January, 2018

Alberta Native News

7

Stories from the Bush: Code of life and the beauty ways

By Henry Laboucan & Dylan Lightbourn Earth mother and Mother Earth hold the beauty ways, and therein lies our greatest hope. Those who know this will protect and defend them. Living in a way that enhances our world rather than hindering it is living the beauty ways, walking in harmony with natural law. This is the “code of life.” This is what the grandmothers and grandfathers have passed on to us. If we remember to live this way, it will transform human presence on Earth to one that enhances rather than hinders.

To follow natural law we must nakasotah (listen with body, heart, mind, and spirit), and nakatohke (watch and learn from observation). Living the code of life is a deep and personal life-time commitment. It means that we consider moral and ethical “cooperation” principles of non-interference, respect for sacred and ethical space between sentient beings, and reciprocity in every action, learning from any mistakes we make.

Traditional Elders pass down the beauty ways through stories and songs, which can be learned but also live in the blood memory. The best way to learn from Elders in your community is to visit them, making sure to bring protocol or gifts. This is a part of living the beauty ways and the code of life too, because observing protocol is reciprocity.

When we live the beauty ways and teach them to our children the world becomes a healthier place. At one time, everyone on the planet had this knowledge, and many of us lost it. We are all “watchers,” guardians and custodians, or onâkatêhcikêw as it is said in Bush Cree; all the old ones, all the little ones, and everyone in between have a responsibility to be kind to the planet and to each other, which is the most basic definition of the beauty ways.

Earth mother and Mother Earth hold the beauty ways, and therein lies our greatest hope.

Women (earth mothers) hold the beauty ways and have the power to give life and pass this on to the next generation through the blood memory. When a baby is in the womb it exchanges blood with the mother, this is where “blood memory”—all that she knows, and all that those before her in the family line have come to know—is passed on.

When we live the beauty ways and teach them to our children the world becomes a healthier place.

Trauma and mental, emotional, or spiritual “clutter” can be stored in the blood memory just as wisdom can. Over time a person can become aware of things in their blood memory that perpetuate harm in their life. When aware of it, they are helping those that came before them and future generations as well. Every person is but a bundle on a long string of ancestors, ânskôtâpân, that share blood memory.

Like us on

mikisiw pisim from “Stories from the Bush”

The Beauty Ways from “Stories from the Bush”

These teachings have been shared with the vision that communities can be strengthened through the revitalization and resurgence of traditional values, story telling, ceremonies, and cooperation principles.

They have been preserved in written form to ensure they are available to the coming generations.

Henry Laboucan is ânskôtâpân (a descendant) of traditional Elders and bundle keepers. As a child he listened to the old people speak before going to residential school at the age of eight years old. Henry is a lifetime oskâpêw, learning from his mother Julienne Laboucan and student helper of several well known and respected traditional Elders spanning the course of over forty years.

/ Alberta Native News

Moons and Months: sakâw ayisêniwak terms kise pîsim frost exploding moon / january mikisiw pîsim eagle moon / february niski pîsim goose moon / march ayîki pîsim frog moon / april opiniyâwi-pîsim egg laying moon / may opâskâwêhowi-pîsim moulting moon / june opaskowi-pîsim feather moulting moon / july ohpahowi-pîsim flying up moon / august onôhcitôwi-pîsim rutting moon / september kaskatinowi-pîsim migrating moon / october iyîkopîwi-pîsim freeze up moon / november pawahcakinasîs hoar frost moon / december nistosâp pîsim transformation moon, 13th moon Thirteen moons a year: The word pîsim in Bush Cree and other dialects means “light”. kisikaw pîsim means day sun or just sun. tipiskawi pîsim means moon or night sun. The month names all start with descriptive words that tell about the moons, like mikisiw pîsim which describes the eagle moon, when the eagle arrives heralding the other birds in the early spring after the snow and frost falls off of the trees. This is where the Cree “month” names are from. There were originally 13 because there are actually 13 moons in a year.

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Alberta Native News

January, 2018

Are we on the road to reconciliation?

By Ennis Morris It might seem to be a disorganized mess but just because the road isn’t clear doesn’t mean it’s impassable. That’s the way it appears to be when it comes to the process of achieving reconciliation, honouring six years of often difficult work, fulfilling the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s (TRC) recommendations and finding answers and direction when it comes to missing and murdered Aboriginal women and girls.

It’s been two years since the TRC’s Final Report was delivered and though there doesn’t seem to be a meaningful Guide to Future Reconciliation anywhere in sight, and the National Inquiry on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women seems to be floundering, there has been some progress - just not where one might have expected it. Reconciliation is happening but much of it is being generated at a grass roots level, through social media and through programs initiated by organizations such as the Canadian Native Friendship Centres, Indigenous seniors’ organizations, sports groups, schools and cultural community centres. It is a slowly spreading conversation that does have its setbacks - like when the ignorant, uneducated and insecure espouse their hatred on social media and other platforms - but sometimes these negatives help to turn the tide toward reconciliation, especially when the listener has the knowledge and the tools to set the record straight.

Reconciliation is a distant reality and will remain that way until school books offer the truth, school children are encouraged to love and accept rather than ignore and distrust, adults are reeducated and enlightened and governments step up and do more than talk about what their plans are. When Steven Harper held the reins of power in Ottawa everyone knew that progress would halt; during his decade as Canada’s leader he and his “new” Conservatives did little to enhance Indigenous lifestyle and even less when it came to providing housing, running water, sewage systems, education, medical care and employment opportunities. During Canada’s 150-year history, Conservatives have been staunch non-supporters of Indigenous peoples, treaties and rights. In Alberta the mantra of both the Federal and Provincial Conservatives

was to divide and conquer.

Progress is being made in Alberta where the NDP government has stepped up to the plate to participate and to act as a support mechanism rather than a road block.

They’ve invested money, resources and manpower and have made various commitments over the last couple of years that have all come to fruition. Yes, they have more to accomplish but they are moving forward.

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) was established as a result of the 2007 Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement. Its mandate was to tell Canadians about the 150-plus year history of the schools in part through the statements of those whose lives were affected by them. On June 2, 2015 the TRC reached the end of a six-year journey that saw several Commissioners, including those who brought the task to fruition, Honourable Chief Justice Murray Sinclair, Chief Willie Littlechild and Dr. Marie Wilson, listen to and record the statements of more than 6,750 victims and survivors of Indian Residential School abuse. In its Final Report, ’Honouring the Truth: Reconciling for the Future,’ a sixvolume, two million word document translated into six different languages, the Commissioners left little doubt about the legacy of abuse and cultural genocide perpetrated against Canada’s Indigenous peoples by successive government bureaucracies whose Aboriginal policies were designed to eliminate Aboriginal governments; ignore Aboriginal rights; terminate the Treaties; and, through a process of assimilation, cause Aboriginal peoples to cease to exist as distinct legal, social, cultural, religious, and racial entities in Canada. In other words, the Commission determined that the Government of Canada and the host of church groups administering to children sent to residential schools participated in nothing less than nearly two centuries of cultural genocide.

To recognize that truth and to set a path that would encourage understanding and bring about reconciliation the Commission delivered 94 recommendations, which became known as the TRC’s Calls to Action (CTAs).

Last month, Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Crown-

Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada introduced Treaty Six Grand Chief Wilton Littlechild as the head of a new Interim Board of Directors for the National Council of Reconciliation. He was appointed along with five other board members including Max FineDay, Mike DeGagné, Clint Davis, Edith Cloutier, and Jean Teillet.

These appointments are aimed at advancing Canada's commitment to implementing the CTAs – specifically the call for the establishment of a National Council for Reconciliation, and multi-year funding for the National Council and the endowment of a National Reconciliation Trust.

Over the course of the next six months, the Board members will engage with various stakeholders to recommend options for the establishment of the National Council for Reconciliation and the endowment of a National Reconciliation Trust.

"Noting the importance and positive impact of follow up on the TRC's calls to action, I am very encouraged by Continued on page 9

January, 2018

Alberta Native News

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The challenges of the new year

By UBCIC Grand Chief Stewart Phillip (Unceded Coast Salish Territory / Vancouver, B.C. – January 1, 2018) As the days start to grow longer, there remains a smoldering, undiminished sense of determination, inspiration and hope in our hearts as we approach Battleground 2018.

Led by the Tsleil-Waututh, Coldwater Indian Band, and Squamish Nation, the lawsuits that could shut down Kinder Morgan’s Trans Mountain Expansion project will be decided by summer. Should the approval be nullified, our attention will be squarely upon Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government to take immediate action to protect the land, rivers, the Salish Sea and stop the Trans Mountain Expansion project.

It has been a long, drawn out process as governments have continued to live up to their election promises and government commitments. The last federal and provincial elections reaffirmed the importance of Indigenous Title, Rights and Treaty Rights. We were told that now is the time to implement the United Nations’ Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, now is the time to honour the Tsilhqot'in Supreme Court of Canada decision, and now is the time for reconciliation by breathing life into the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action. Is that what we have seen?

The Coast Protectors campaign arose as thousands gathered to send a clear message to Prime Minister Trudeau that we would not back down just because his government approved the Trans Mountain Expansion project. After all, Enbridge’s Northern Gateway was approved by the former Prime Minister and the courts killed it because of the flagrant refusal to honourably engage with Indigenous communities on the irreversible impacts to their Title, Rights and Treaty Rights.

This past fall, Kinder Morgan’s president Ian Anderson complained to the federal government that delays were costing the company $90 million a month.

Reconciliation

cont. from p 8

this government's move to establish an interim committee to work on the Council for Reconciliation,” stated Grand Chief Littlechild. “A tremendous amount has been done to promote Reconciliation across Canada since our report.

However, there is no coordinating or monitoring mechanism. I look forward with interest to the establishment of a Council who will be influential in the increased engagement of the rest of Canada. True reconciliation requires all of us working together."

In introducing the new board, it is stated that “to date, progress has been made on over two-thirds of the Calls to Action under federal or shared responsibility.”

We will continue to warn investors and we will continue to oppose this project that so flippantly downplays the risks from this pipeline to the lands of the Coldwater Band, whose drinking water source would be undrinkable in case of a spill. We will oppose the massive expansion of a super-tanker terminal in Tsleil-Waututh waters, even as Kinder Morgan claims the right of private property over part of the Salish Sea. We stand with the Squamish Nation, who have spent so much time and money trying to make the government live up to its promises around consultation.

There are tens of thousands of us and we will do what it takes to stop this pipeline expansion project and tanker nightmare.

After many promises to implement the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples including the fundamental principle of free, prior and informed consent, it is becoming clear we see that these promises have given way to a plodding shrug once in office. Caleb Behn, an Indigenous lawyer from Treaty 8, where Premier Horgan’s government “heavy-hearted” approval of BC Hydro’s Site C dam will now flood thousands of hectares of traditional lands stated, "You cannot address injustice while perpetrating injustice."

There is no justice for Indigenous peoples without Therein lies the question - What has been done and where is it being done? Saying you are on top of it is one thing, being transparent and accountable is another. The pace will never quicken if the public is kept in the dark about what is being done and what has actually been achieved.

MInister Bennett stated, "Reconciliation is not just an Indigenous issue, it's a Canadian one, and it will take genuine collaboration at all levels to advance this journey.

I look forward to receiving concrete recommendations that will further the Government's commitment to advancing reconciliation for the benefit of all Canadians."

Implementing the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action is an important milestone in Canada's journey of reconciliation. We are indeed hopeful, that the work

climate justice. We have been here and we will always be here.

I raise my hands to the Indigenous Nations, Peoples, friends and allies for your commitment and work in 2017.

In 2018, we will move forward together. Whatever it takes.

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip is President of the Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs. (instead of It is hoped ) of this Interim Board of Directors will form a vital guidepost along that journey.

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Alberta Native News

January, 2018

Canada and the Metis Settlements General Council sign of MOU Last month, the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs, and Darren Calliou, Vice President of the Metis Settlements General Council, signed a Memorandum of Understanding committing the parties to renew and strengthen the government-to-government relationship and advance lasting reconciliation with the eight Metis Settlements of Alberta.

“The signing of this agreement represents a commitment by the Government of Canada to work with the Metis Settlements General Council to build a new relationship through true partnership and collaboration,” stated Minister Bennett. “This is a key step in our journey together towards reconciliation with all Alberta Métis.”

Canada and the Metis Settlements General Council will now work to develop a framework agreement that will outline the areas for discussion and serve as the basis for negotiations of a reconciliation agreement. This could include identifying socio-economic gaps and improving outcomes for Métis in areas such as health, education, child and family welfare, and Métis rights.

“As Canada’s 150th year comes to a close and we look forward to starting Canada 151, the Metis Settlements are pleased to start a new relationship with the Government of Canada and to begin a new era between our two governments,” remarked MSGC President Gerald Cunningham in a prepared statement. (He was unable to attend the signing event). “There is still a great deal of work to do but this is an important first step.”

The Metis Settlements General Council represents the Metis Settlements of Buffalo Lake, East Prairie, Elizabeth, Fishing Lake, Gift Lake, Kikino, Paddle Prairie and Peavine.

The eight Metis Settlements in Alberta comprise 1.25 million acres collectively with a total population of approximately 8,000 people. The Metis Settlements of Alberta in their current form were established through

AFL Mentors

cont. from p 2

as the youth get from them during their stay.

“Those who join us this summer will participate in a unique undertaking that is not only rewarding and challenging, but even life-changing, for both community members and Mentors,” assured Grevlund. “We receive a great deal of positive feedback from the communities and the Mentors every year; some of our Mentors have even made career choice changes after spending a summer working with Indigenous youth. It’s a very positive experience.

“Alberta Sport Connection is very proud of the Future Leaders program as it continues to provide life changing opportunities and encourage positive community development from a sport, arts, recreation and cultural

provincial legislation known as the Metis Settlement Act by the Alberta Legislature in 1990.

These unique Métis communities were originally recognized by the Metis Betterment Act of 1938. The rights and interests of third parties, other Indigenous peoples and all Canadians will be respected and addressed during the negotiations.

Last year marked the first time in its almost eightyyear history with the Government of Alberta, that the Metis Settlements General Council joined with members of the Government and other dignitaries to raise its flag at the Alberta Legislature.

At the time, Cunningham stated, “The Metis people helped to settle the west and played an important role in the evolution of Alberta. We were here before Alberta was even a province and many Albertans are not aware that the only legislatively protected, land-based Metis communities in Canada are right here in their Province.”

The Metis Settlements and their members have a long history in the Province of Alberta, going back before the Province was established in 1905.

It was an act of the Legislature in 1938, the Metis Betterment Act, that established what were then referred to as the Metis colonies. These communities evolved and grew as beacons of the Metis way of life.

They suffered their share setbacks and difficulties, there were challenges with the relationship between the Metis Settlements and Alberta. But in 1990, after a long hard negotiation, both partners agreed to ratify the 1990 Metis Settlements/Alberta Accord and implement the four pieces of legislation, including the Metis Settlements Act and the Metis Settlements Land Protection Act, that created the framework under which the Settlements operate today.

The ultimate goal of the Accord and the legislation was to perspective while supporting the dreams of everyone involved with the program.”

Mentors come from varied backgrounds but they all have something in common: positive attitudes, active lifestyles and endless energy. As they live and work in the communities, the mentors build strong relationships with local youth, acting as positive role models and inspiring youth to be their best. Mentors are thoroughly trained and are well equipped for the summer activities they will participate in.

“Before the program begins,” explained Grevlund, “Mentors spend 8 days learning from our program facilitator, Elders, community members and past AFL mentors about the program, and communities they will be working with. Mentors will meet again during and after the summer to discuss best practices, address current successes and challenges that can be shared across all

enhance local autonomy and respect the Metis Settlements’ right to self-determination. It was an historic step forward, but, as President Cunningham notes, there is much more yet to do: “We appreciate the long history between our Settlements and Alberta, and we’ve come a long way in eighty years but the work of community building never ends. We are also beginning the process of reconciliation with the Government of Canada given recent Supreme Court decisions and we truly hope that all three parties – the Metis Settlements, Alberta, and Canada – can formalize a framework to cooperate as we move forward.”

communities in the program.”

The Alberta Sport Connection, in partnership with the Alberta Foundation for the Arts (AFA), provides opportunities to help strengthen and empower youth who live in Indigenous communities in Alberta. ASC believes “investing in Alberta's youth today will create a positive tomorrow.”

For more information about the program and application process, visit: albertasport.ca and click on the Programs icon and then on the Future Leaders Program icon.

Those interested in participating are encouraged to send a cover letter and resume indicating their position of preference to: ctfutureleaders@albertasport.ca. For telephone inquiries call (780) 422-9254.

Alberta Native News reaches your target audience distributing to more Indigenous communities across Alberta and the west than any other newspaper.

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January, 2018

Alberta Native News

11

Job training underway for Indigenous women in northeastern Alberta Through funding from the Alberta Employment Partnerships Program, 11 Indigenous women are training to be heavy equipment operators so they can get wellpaying jobs and begin new careers.

“Alberta is proud to support employment and training initiatives for Indigenous people,” stated Alberta Minister of Indigenous Relations Richard Feehan. “Training like this provides strong employment opportunities for these women, and the sense of pride that comes with moving towards financial security and independence.”

The 12-week training program gives participants direct hands-on experience operating a variety of machinery, including motor grader excavators, bulldozers, front-end loaders and articulated rock trucks. The average wage of a heavy equipment operator is $72,000 a year.

“Oteenow appreciates the long-standing relationship with the Government of Alberta,” noted Roberta Bearhead, executive director, Oteenow Employment and Training Society.

“The supports Oteenow receives from GOA has allowed us to invest in youth, Indigenous women and all First Nation, Inuit people residing in the Edmonton metropolitan area.”

The Alberta government provided $160,888 to the

Westmount

cont. from p 5

“I really enjoy this school and I like participating in the Fiddle Program; I also have other family members who play the fiddle," noted Rickal LaFontaine, whose family comes from Saskatchewan’s Poundmaker First Nation. “I decided to come to this school because of the Fiddle Program but also because many of my friends come here.”

Rickal’s favourite subject is Science but he’s also taking options that include Norwegian and Computer Coding.

His goal is “to pursue my music through school and beyond and perhaps one day make music of my own.”

Reilly Manyshots’ family comes from the Siksika First Nation in south-central Alberta. His favourite subject is Social. He intends on pursuing a career as a chef with a focus on bakery and pastry making.

“I enjoy cooking and baking,” he said, noting that he plays both fiddle and guitar, primarily for relaxation and enjoyment, but not as a career choice. “I’m taking Food, Fiddle and Guitar as option programs and the biggest reason I first chose this school was because many of my friends come here. I really enjoy this school. The teachers are great and they give you lots of support and the principal is quite involved and will often speak to you in the hallways - just to say hello. It’s comforting.”

T’Keyah Desjarlais likes the Fiddle Program a great deal, but her actual love is artistic expression.

“T’Keyah,” noted Principal Stanley, “is very interested in art. She’s one of two students selected this year to participate in a Linus Woods Workshop, a three-day program that offers an introduction to fine art. T’Keyah has what it takes to become a successful artist."

“I love drawing and painting and plan to pursue a career in the field of art,” Desjarlais explained, noting that she is also taking option classes that include Watercolours, Drama and ASL (American Sign Language.)

“These three students,” assured Stanley, “are a very versatile group of young people; they are role models and achievers and by remaining focused they will grow to become successful leaders in the community.”

Westmount School, explained Stanley is “a learning community of students, parents, teachers and supporters dedicated to preparing young people for the academic and real-world challenges they will encounter on their journey to adulthood and beyond. Students at Westmount are served by superb teachers who work with students to foster their individual success in all subject areas. Students have multiple opportunities for learning beyond the classroom through sports teams, band-art-drama productions, clubs, field trips, presentations and experiences.

Oteenow Employment and Training Society and the Tribal Chiefs Employment and Training Services Association to run the program. The training is taking place at High Heavy Velocity Equipment Training Back, L-R: Christina Gray, Minister of Labour, Keisha Coleman, student; Front L-R: College, just west of Richard Feehan, Minister of Indigenous Relations, Shania Brereton, student and Edmonton. High Velocity Trevor Horne, MLA, Spruce Grove-St. Albert. boasts a 92 per cent jobplacement rate for economy. We know the female trainees in the heavy graduates and participants often secure employment equipment training program will be successful with the before they finish their training. new acquired skills. We believe, together, we can achieve “Without the continued partnership, financial support of more.” the Government of Alberta and leveraging funding The funding comes from the Canada-Alberta Job Fund, through Tribal Chiefs Employment and Training Services a federal-provincial agreement designed to help deliver Association and Oteenow Employment and Training skills training to current and future workers. It is Society, programs such as this training may not happen,” administered through the Alberta Employment added Eva John-Gladue, operations manager, Tribal Partnerships Program, which has provided $8.7 million to Chiefs Employment and Training Services Association. support skills development and training opportunities for “Our goal is to ensure that First Nation individuals from Indigenous people in Alberta since 2015. northeast Alberta are not left behind in the Alberta “As a fourth-year principal at Westmount, I am truly honoured to be working with staff, students and a school community that has shown such a wonderful commitment to education. Westmount is a school with a rich history that has been committed to high quality education for over 100 years. Westmount Junior High School promotes high standards and expectations for each student in regard to academic performance and responsible citizenship during the school day as well as after school hours. Good attendance has proven that results will follow. It is the contribution of our students to our school community that makes Westmount Junior High School remarkable. We encourage participation in academic programs, fine arts, athletics, and community service along with a willingness to act responsibly as an individual to promote a positive academic environment for all. I am extremely proud of our growth last year and our improvement in the area of attendance, discipline and achievement and continue to foster greater success in these areas.

“We believe that our parent community is an equally important part of the success of our students and school. We encourage parents to participate in the daily learning activities of their child by talking to their child about their learning and openly communicating with their child's teachers. There are also many other opportunities for parents to connect with the school by being active members of the Parent Advisory Council, by attending sporting and musical events, cultural events, student-led conferences and parent-teacher interviews. We welcome their phone calls and

To advertise your business or community event in Alberta Native News, call Dan at 780-421-7966 or email natnews@shaw.ca

inquiries.”

Westmount Jr. High offers a range of extra-curricular activities and one of the most popular is an evening of powwow dancing that can be enjoyed every Monday night, in partnership with the Canadian Native Friendship Centre.

“It’s a great community activity and one that usually attracts more than 100 people each week,” explained Principal Stanley.

For more information about Westmount Jr. High, call 780-452-8350. Visit www.westmount.epsb.ca for details about the school and its abundant selection of option programs.

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Alberta Native News

January, 2018