Alberta Native News - Digital Edition - November, 2016

Volume 33 Number 11 November, 2016

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Alberta Native News

November, 2016

Celebrate Métis Week 2016 across Alberta and beyond

by John Copley Métis Week 2016 takes place across Alberta from November 13 -19 with a wide variety of activities in both Edmonton and Calgary to celebrate the distinct traditions of Metis people and their culture.

This year’s annual event gets underway in Edmonton at 10 a.m. on November 13 with the seventh Annual Louis Riel Commemorative Walk, a six km walk that begins and ends at St. Margaret’s Anglican Church. A commemorative service will take place in the church at noon.

The City of Edmonton and The City of Calgary in partnership with the Métis Nation of Alberta (MNA) will honour Métis Week and the Métis people of Alberta and its surrounding area with a proclamation and a flag-raising ceremony at each city’s City Hall on Monday, November 14. The flags will fly over the cities during the week-long celebration of Métis culture.

A press statement from Mayor Don Iveson’s office notes that the “City of Edmonton recognizes the important role that Métis people have played in the founding and development of Edmonton, and the contributions they continue to make to our great city.”

Métis Week, an annual event that celebrates Métis culture and identity, was designed to coincide with the anniversary of the death of Right Honourable Louis Riel, who was executed by the Government of Canada in Regina, Saskatchewan on November 16, 1885. Each year on this date a commemorative ceremony is held in his honour. The ceremony “symbolizes the commitment Métis people share in striving for and promoting the visions of Louis Riel and is one of the most important dates on the Métis calendar.”

In addition to recognizing Louis Riel Day on November 16, the Métis Nation of Alberta (MNA) declared the week surrounding November 16 as “Métis Week” and has hosted the annual event in Edmonton and Calgary for the past eight years. The week is devoted to commemorating the sacrifices of the Métis, who continue to strive toward rights and recognition as a distinct nation. The legacy of

Louis Riel, a devoted Métis political leader who sacrificed his life defending the rights of the Métis people, continues to inspire both Métis youth and adults as it resonates throughout the Métis homeland.

All Albertans are invited and encouraged to participate in the annual celebration as the MNA welcomes the public to celebrate the rich culture and contributions of Alberta’s Métis people.

On November 15, the MNA’s Provincial Office on Kingsway Avenue in Edmonton will host a “come and go tea” afternoon for and with Elders, seniors and veterans.

On November 16, a Louis Riel Commemorative Ceremony will be held outside the Alberta Legislature Building beginning at 11 a.m.

In a recent interview with CTV Edmonton, MNA representatives Sarah Parker and Beatrice Demetrius talked about some of the events taking place in Edmonton.

“Following the Commemorative Ceremony at the Legislature,” noted Parker, “there will be an open house at the MNA office where we’ll have a fiddler providing entertainment and we will be highlighting some of our beautiful artwork.”

That artwork, created by students from across the city, is part of an annual contest that invites Métis students in various age categories to participate; the winner of each category will see his or her artwork on the front of a lapelpin during the next year’s Métis Week celebration. One of the lapel pins, by last year’s 3-7 years of age category winner, Ava Parker, reflects Métis history by encompassing the Red River cart, a Métis trappers tent and the Métis flag, the oldest flag in Canada.

“The goal of the art project,” explained Parker, “is to engage our youth in their heritage and culture. Louis Riel famously quoted that ‘my people will sleep for 100 years and when they awake it will be the artists that awaken their spirit.’ It’s beautiful, and we resonate that sentiment at the Metis Nation.”

To end the day, Edmonton’s High Level Bridge will be resonating in a colourful splendour of blue and white; the Métis colours that will help to enhance the mid-point of Métis Week 2016.

Beatrice Demetrius said Métis Week gives Albertans an opportunity

“to learn about who we are and what we are about.”

Asked by the host if she thought most people knew and understood Metis people and culture she replied: “No, I think they kind of throw us in the same bucket as First Nations, but we are a distinct group of people and we have been since the Battle of Seven Oaks in 1816. At that time, we said we are not First Nations and we are not Caucasians, we are the bois brüle - that means burnt wood - of course today we are known as the Métis.”

A cribbage tournament will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on November 17 at the Londonderry Hall. On November 18, the same venue will host the Métis Nation of Alberta and Region 4 Festive Jamboree from10 a.m. until 11 p.m.

Métis Nation of Alberta Family Day will take place at the Ramada Inn and Conference Centre in Edmonton from 1 to 5 p.m. on November 19. In Calgary, that same day, a Fun Day will be held at the Crossroads Community Hall, followed by a Traditional Metis Supper and Dance, bringing Metis Week 2016 to a close.

At each event throughout the week, the beautiful Metis Anthem will be played. The anthem was penned in 1991 with lyrics by Clint Buehler and music by Dennis Charney. The chorus rings proudly: “We are proud to be Métis, watch our Nation rise again. Never more forgotten people, we’re the true Canadian.”

To learn more about the cultural events during Metis Week and throughout the year contact the Metis Nation of Alberta Association at 780-455-2200 or the Metis Settlements General Council.

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Alberta Native News

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Consensus comes from sincere discussions and negotiations

by John Copley To build or not to build - that is the question. Or maybe it’s a dilemma? Whatever it is, the time has come to sit down and create some real bargaining, not with government or oil companies, but with each other. Pro pipeline? Anti-pipeline? There are some solid arguments for both sides of the equation to consider but that doesn’t mean that somewhere in between, a solution can’t be found.

Not too long ago a consortium of some 50 First Nations and the environmental agencies that both entice them and support them made it clear that they would not allow pipeline development on their traditional territory and they formed the Treaty Alliance Against Tar Sand Expansion in order to stop all pipeline development.

The alliance noted that “Indigenous Law (prohibits) the pipelines, trains and tankers that will feed the expansion of the Alberta Tar Sands.”

A week or so later another group came together to discuss ways they can encourage development. At the time, National Grand Chief Perry Bellegarde said though he realizes it will be difficult to find common ground, it isn’t impossible. He wants First Nations across the country to get more involved in economic development, telling CBC that “we are tired of being poor.”

In a speech, he went on to note that if pipelines are built "there will be spills, but how do you mitigate that? Can you quickly stop it so it has very little impact on land and water? That's the fear. We're going to work through this.

Be patient, it can happen.”

Chiefs whose communities are already utilizing agreements with oil companies met in Calgary for a couple of days in October to discuss traditional values versus the dangers of energy development.

Kainai First Nation Chief Charles Weasel Head called

the rift between the anti and pro pipeline proponents “a dilemma” noting that “we have opposing views on oil sands development, pipeline construction (and) tidewater access for oil to reach world markets. This thing is not going to go away.”

All the more reason then, to broaden the bargaining tables to ensure that everyone who has a stake in the future, with or without pipelines, can sit down and talk about what measures can be put in place to ensure that everyone’s goals are met.

There’s always at least two sides to every story, every opinion and every action - and that’s usually not much of a problem because everyone is entitled to his and her own thoughts. Sometimes it’s just a matter of talking to and convincing those who oppose your views that they are misinformed and your information and opinions are correct. The proof, they say, is usually in the pudding; facts and real-time data, combined with human intelligence and common understanding often resolve the issue at hand and everyone walks away happy. But that’s not always the case.

When trusts have been broken and words of apparent sincerity not kept, it doesn’t matter what is presented, it will not be believed. The fact that nearly 10 years of mistrust, combined with several underhanded tactics from the former Conservative government, particularly in Canada but also in Alberta, has deepened suspicions and created cracks where there should be closure. One thing is certain; infighting and combative words have been the order of the day for far too long as one government after another pits Indigenous peoples against one another with labels, innuendo and rhetoric that demeans, chastises and creates mistrust.

Instead of biting at the hook, maybe it is time for those Nations and individuals who are both for and against pipeline development in Canada to sit down at the same Continued on page 12

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Alberta Chiefs call for meaningful engagement on climate change Alberta Chiefs gathered in Edmonton last month to discuss the environment and climate change with the Federal and Provincial governments where they voiced frustration and calls for action on saving the planet for future generations.

Leaders from Treaty No. 6, Treaty No. 7 and Treaty No. 8 (Alberta) met to create dialogue on innovative approaches to address climate change and to get commitment that they will be fully engaged in any plan to address the impacts from climate change. Chiefs reminded government that any approach must be rooted in Treaty and Inherent Rights and the Crown’s Duty to consult and accommodate First Nations’ interests to share and protect the Land.

“As long as the Sun shines, the Grass grows and the Rivers flow, we will protect Mother Earth. Our ancestors agreed to share our lands and maintain our way of life based on our treaties,” said Treaty No. 6 Grand Chief Randy Ermineskin. “That has a significant meaning to us, it means for all times – that there would be no end. Yet our ancestors saw so many changes to their way of life, changes that we continue to experience today. We watch our Mother Earth being stripped of Her natural resources while our people settled into poverty. Agreements, economic benefits made in good faith were not respected.

We see the impacts on the land, the water…air.”

Minister of Environment and Parks, and the Minister Responsible for the Climate Change Office, Shannon Phillips attended the Summit today to discuss engaging Indigenous Peoples on Alberta’s Climate Leadership Plan to tackle climate change. She says the work has been significant, with a deadline for some of the policies to be revealed by the end of the year. Other initiatives will need more time to figure out, such as consulting with First Nations about opportunities and adaptation related to the climate plan.

She said participants shared in discussions at those

sessions, exploring outcomes, priorities and community interests related to climate change and Aboriginal peoples. Many perspectives and ideas were shared, including comments related to Treaty and Aboriginal rights, education, cumulative impacts, climate change adaptation, environmental policies and the impacts on future generations. Phillips told Chiefs at today’s Climate Summit that Alberta has engaged with “Aboriginal” communities and organizations that shared their unique perspective and connection to the land.

“Many comments we received centred on the impacts from climate change rather than on efforts to mitigate climate change – something we encourage government to address alongside the implementation of their response to our proposals. Concerns about the impacts of climate change, as well as the other environmental impacts of energy development, were constant throughout our process. We need you to be part of this process as well,” said Phillips.

Canada also addressed the Summit today to outline the Federal Consultation process on Environment Assessments and to provide an update on its Climate Change Discussions and the recent Paris Agreement.

Canada says Indigenous Peoples will receive capacity funding as partners in the process of creating a green economy and the fight against climate change – from planning to implementation – respecting Aboriginal and Treaty rights and the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

Many Chiefs remain skeptical that government will honour Treaties, the Crown’s Duty to Consult and Accommodate and truly engage First Nations in a meaningful way, by working with Indigenous governments to develop concrete plans to fight climate change.

“We are now seeing the impacts…our peoples for the

Ottawa moves to eliminate gender inequities in the Indian Act (OTTAWA CNW) - On October 25, the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs, announced the introduction of a bill in the Senate intended to eliminate known sex-based inequities in the registration provisions of the Indian Act. Bill S-3, An Act to amend the Indian Act (elimination of sex-based inequities in registration), is in response to the Superior Court of Quebec decision in the case of Descheneaux et al., v. Canada. The Bill proposes legislative amendments to the Indian registration provisions of the Indian Act to address historic inequities in how men and women acquire and transmit Indian status.

"The elimination of sex-based discrimination in the Indian Act has long been fought for by many courageous Indigenous women,” stated Minister Bennett. “Our government is committed to honouring their work by introducing legislation in partnership with First Nations.

This is just the first step in our government's approach to eliminate known sex-based inequities in the Indian Act. However, our shared goal is to work together to move beyond the Indian Act, based on the recognition of rights, respect, cooperation and partnership."

The Government of Canada recognizes that there are a number of issues relating to registration and Band membership under the Indian Act. This is why in summer 2016, the Government has launched a two-staged approach in response to the Descheneaux decision and to address the concerns of First Nations and other Indigenous groups. This Bill represents only Stage I of this approach.

As part of Stage I, engagement sessions were held with First Nations and other Indigenous groups over the summer to discuss the proposed legislative approach on the amendments to the registration provisions of the Indian Act. Engagement sessions on the proposed legislation are ongoing. During Stage II, to begin in February 2017, a collaborative process with First Nations and other Indigenous groups will be launched to examine the broader issues relating to Indian registration, Band membership and citizenship.

"For decades, the Native Women’s Association of

Canada (NWAC) has worked on addressing sex-based discrimination against Indigenous women and girls, their families, and communities,” added Francyne Joe, Interim president of NWAC. “We are pleased that the government is moving forward on this issue by introducing this important legislation. We are also encouraged that the

most part can no longer live off the land, our natural food supplies have been contaminated, and our traditional medicines have been contaminated and destroyed. We can no longer drink our water and our air is polluted. Our health continues to decline,” said Grand Chief Ermineskin. “Our peoples are waking up…it will be our Indigenous peoples who will save our Mother Earth. This is why we have come together to discuss what we need to do to protect and heal our lands, water and air. So we will listen to Canada’s plan and Alberta’s plan…we owe it to our children and grandchildren to do all we can.”

The Prime Minister said he would convene a meeting with premiers and Indigenous organizations on December 8-9, 2016 to develop a pan-Canadian framework to fight climate change. government has acknowledged much more needs to be done with respect to membership. NWAC is looking forward to partnering with the government on these broader critical issues. We believe that this legislation is only the beginning of the process to fully ending all forms of discrimination in the Indian Act. “NWAC would like to see the full implementation of Article 33 of United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP): Indigenous peoples have the right to determine their own identity or membership in accordance with their customs and traditions."

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November, 2016

Traditional Sweat Lodge to open at Amiskwaciy Academy

by John Copley Amiskwaciy Academy has just completed construction of a new outdoor traditional sweat lodge that the school’s Elder Francis Whiskeyjack said will “help to rebuild selfesteem and enhance healing for Native people” both in the school and in the community. The circular building is constructed almost entirely with wood and houses the beaver-lodge style willow enclosure necessary to host traditional ceremonies.

The idea for the sweat lodge began about four years ago with construction getting underway in mid-September this year. Principal Fred Hines said the success of the project was a result of the “outstanding community support we’ve received from companies like Stantec and Ledcor, and a host of other contacts and suppliers who have been involved in the project since the beginning.”

“Community support for this project has been very positive,” noted Amiskwaciy Elder Francis Whiskeyjack.

“A few years ago, Elder Marge Friedel and I had a vision - and to step out here today and see it reach fruition is a really good thing. I can feel the spirit; it’s like a supernatural force that melds tradition with modern technology. We owe a big debt of gratitude to everyone who supported this initiative.”

That support, noted Hines, began with the partnership the school has with the Rotary Club of Edmonton Glenora, some of whom also work for Stantec Inc. an international professional services company that specializes in consultation and design.

“We started doing the groundwork to determine what needed to be done before we could build the sweat lodge,” explained Hines. “We looked at city by-laws, construction permits, protocols that needed to be followed through the Edmonton Public school district - it was an ongoing process. Once Stantec became involved everything began to move forward. Their architects and engineers got on board and said they’d like to participate in the project and help us through some of the hurdles associated with it.

They absorbed the architectural costs and they met with the city in regards to permits; Edmonton Public Schools

was also involved.

“It’s been a hands-on activity for some of our staff and students and the result is that this community project has provided us with a beautiful shelter for Elder Whiskeyjack and the school as a whole,” added Hines. “We are very grateful to Stantec for helping us to get this project from a vision to a reality and to everyone else who came on-board to work with us and our students. Thanks to Stantec and Ledcor and the partners they’ve brought into the equation, we will have a facility like no other; it’s a beautiful and fully functional structure that will enable Elder Whiskeyjack to carry out traditional sweats in a traditional structure.”

Other companies who contributed to the initiative included Spartan Steel, Nelson Amiskwaciy shop instructor Larry Moro with two of the students Lumber, Convoy Supply, IVIS Inc., the Bolt (Keeston Young and Brylee Gladue) who helped work on the Supply House Ltd, Hamilton and Olsen project pictured above in progress.

Surveys Ltd., Goliath Concrete and Construction, ICON Ready Mix Ltd., FastFence, Decorative Concrete Construction the structure. “Over the years we’ve worked on many and A&H Steel. meaningful community initiatives and this was no “Stantec brought Ledcor into the project,” explained exception; it was also a good opportunity for the school’s Hines, “and they in turn brought in their suppliers and construction class students to learn a bit more about the contractors; there were a lot of people who got behind the construction trades. Once we completed a virtual (reality) project, something we are very grateful for. Stantec took video of the project we invited Ledcor to come in as a the bull by the horn, so to speak, and got a lot of people partner.” involved. The labour on the project came from a variety of Ledcor Special Projects Manager Scott Murchison said sources, including about 15 of our grade 11 and 12 that “when Stantec invited us to participate our response construction class students. They worked with the building was immediate. We are very pleased to have participated trades and came away with some valuable knowledge and in this meaningful and rewarding project. In the process, enhanced skills. We had concrete companies, steel we have established new friendships and created manufacturers, lumber companies and a host of other opportunities for students to gain added insight into the trades and construction-oriented companies and construction trades. This is a beautiful building and it will individuals working with us on this project; it’s been a real be utilized for the benefit of the Indigenous community.” community endeavour and a great example of what can be Amiskwaciy construction class teacher Larry Moro, accomplished when we all work together to create better who’s has been with the school for the past six years, said opportunities for our he was very pleased to see so many students take a role in students.” helping build the new sweat lodge.

Stantec Senior Assoc“We had 12 to 15 students working with us on this iate Robert Bourdages project, at different times of course - the initiative has been said the company “was included in the class schedule and students will get credit very happy to have for participating,” noted Moro. “It’s all part of our participated in this unique construction building module. The students began project,” and lauded the working on the project in early October. The kids are work of Stantec learning the techniques of putting the structure together; architectural designer, it’s not the normal type of project they’ve been working Frederic Brisson, who Continued on page 7 came up with the plan for

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Sweat Lodge

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on. It’s a circular structure - a gazebo - so there are a lot of things they probably wouldn’t learn when building chairs, or sheds, or doghouses. The angles and cuts in the wood are different and the construction process is something new to them; it’s been a great learning opportunity and one that offers insight into different trades and different opportunities that might suit their career challenges.”

Moro said the students took a great deal of pride working on this project because they see it’s a kind of legacy that’s being left by the companies and individuals that have worked here and donated a lot of their time, money and materials. The spiritual side is also very important; I see Elder Whiskeyjack’s eyes light up whenever he steps out here. The whole spiritual component is going to enhance the overall learning at the school with the students and the staff and others who may not have been here before, experiencing a sweat at the school and learning more about Indigenous culture.

Listening to Elder Whiskeyjack in prayer and ceremony really hits home.”

Ledcor foreman Steve Pittis said that “there have been a lot of people involved in this project, including our supervisors and managers who did the legwork lining up the various contractors who participated. From cement workers and steel workers to carpenters and participating students, it’s been a very positive experience. Working with the students has been fun; they’ve proven to be hard workers who are willing to learn.”

This type of circular structure isn’t new to Pittis; he’s been in the building trade for years.

“Technically, since I was about 12,” he noted. “I worked with my dad and he had me finishing lacquer before I was 13 years old. I knew at an early age what I wanted to do and have always found construction to be a rewarding career.”

Over the years Pittis has built a variety of buildings and spent several years in residential construction. This is the first traditional sweat lodge though. Because the structure has spiritual significance, Amiskwaciy Academy Elder Francis Whiskeyjack acted as an advisor to Pittis and his crew.

“A circular structure like this one is more challenging to build than a square house where just about every angle

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requires a 90-degree cut; in this structure, there are only four 90 degree cuts and as a result more thought has to be put into each phase of construction. Elder Whiskeyjack worked with us to ensure that the building meets the protocol required for sweats and sacred ceremonies, so it’s been a learning process that we have all gained from.”

“This new traditional sweat lodge,” assured Elder Whiskeyjack, “is a beautiful piece of work and what makes it even more special is the camaraderie that has been built here during the past eight weeks. The workers who’ve been here to help build this new structure are extraordinary people with special talents and positive attitudes. We are proud to see our students working alongside these professionals and grateful for the time the various tradespeople have provided to help our students get a better understanding of the construction trade. To see Stantec and Ledcor and the other dozen or more contractors and suppliers get involved like they did is really special and we are all so very grateful for their input and support.

Sweat Lodge builders Brandon Sherger, Damion Woiwod, We’ve had a great deal of community support foreman Steve Pittis, Cory Cherniwchan and Matt Williams. for this project and the help we’ve received from our partners and sponsors and the building spiritually, physically, emotionally and mentally strong in tradespeople who participated in this project has been all they say and do.

The new Sweat Lodge is quite remarkable. The wooden something we will never forget. We will soon be hosting ceremonies and sweats in the new building and we have a exterior of the building is constructed in cedar, as is the long list of people on the line-up, including all of the shingled roof. A large galvanized metal top and four steel people who were involved in helping us to make this reinforced beams stabilize the roof. Concrete and steel provide the foundation. The floor comprises several inches vision a reality.”

Other schools in the district will be also be invited to of dirt, adding to the traditional importance of the site. The participate in sweats, as will members of the community. interior of the sweat lodge includes a mixture of spruce “The construction of this facility is really just the tip of and pine. The interior walls and seating are constructed the iceberg when you look at the overall picture,” noted with cedar, a long-lasting wood that doesn’t rot. The Elder Whiskeyjack. “It’s at times like this that I think of willow centre of the structure was built on specifications my biggest mentor, Joe P. Cardinal, who once told me that provided by Elder Whiskeyjack; the students helped to tie to live a good life, a full life, you have to love, show the branches together and screwed down the metal plates kindness, share, care and practice self-discipline. He left that anchor the willow to the floor.

Excitement is mounting at the school and in the me with a pot of responsibility.”

That responsibility continues today as Elder community as the final touches are being completed and Whiskeyjack’s guidance encourages Amiskwaciy students the grand opening of the Traditional Sweat Lodge will be to challenge themselves, to make good choices and to be held later this month.

ALBERTA NATIVE NEWS Alberta Native News extends heartfelt congratulations to Amiskwaciy Academy on the grand opening of your Traditional Sweat Lodge.

We are pleased to shine a spotlight on the important work you do, teaching traditional culture and values to your students and school community.

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Alberta First Nations endorse solar energy

by John Copley Solar energy has long been touted as the power source of the future and if the work being done in the past couple of years by companies, individuals and governments is any indication that future is now.

Numerous energy companies are already producing solar power in North America and during the last three years a growing number of western Canada’s Indigenous communities have joined the solar movement and are taking a lead role when it comes to the implementing this relatively new energy source. And that’s good news, especially in light of the fact that the Calgary-based Pembina Institute said the scenario for solar energy in Alberta is “almost too perfect” and that it is lining up “amazingly well with our new summer-peaking regions.”

Pembina says that solar energy will also produce the most where we need it - that the sunniest places in Alberta are the ones with the highest air conditioning use and agricultural/irrigation electricity demand in the summer.”

The alignment between demand and output, noted the Institute, “can mean smoother system operation and lower costs to produce and deliver energy; lowering the overall peak (demand) can mean major savings.”

During its more than 40 years of rule in Alberta the ousted Conservative government seldom dealt good cards to the province’s Indigenous communities but not so with Rachel Notley’s NDP. They’ve stepped up to the plate since Day One and in October this year they delivered more good news with the launching of two small renewable energy pilot projects for First Nations and Métis communities, followed with the introduction of the Climate Leadership Program, an initiative that creates “an historic new strategy on climate change.”

The Climate Leadership Plan is expected to pave a “better course for Alberta's economic future; by reinvesting carbon revenue back into communities, we are helping to diversify our economy, save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”

The endorsement of renewable solar energy by the Alberta government has introduced the Alberta Indigenous Solar Program (AISP) a pilot program that will provide grants to Alberta Indigenous communities or organizations to install solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on facilities owned by the community or organization. The program will support solar power projects that assist in

increasing Indigenous participation in Climate Leadership initiatives that reduce community greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions; the transition to a lower carbon economy; creating more sustainable community energy generation and equipping Indigenous communities with information to support them in investing in solar energy infrastructure.

Together, AISP and the Alberta Indigenous Community Energy Program (AICEP) will contribute $2.5 million for First Nations and Metis Settlements to undertake renewable energy projects and energy efficiency audits in their communities. AISP will provide grants of up to $200,000 per project to First Nations, Metis Settlements and Indigenous organizations, with the funds being used to install solar panels on buildings (offices, medical centres, schools and more) owned by communities or organizations. AICEP will help First Nations and Metis Settlements reduce emissions and save on energy costs through community energy audits funded to a maximum of $90,000.

October 5th was the deadline to apply for initial funding but that deadline will continue until the funding dollars have been exhausted.

“Indigenous communities are at the front lines of climate change and want to be part of the solution,” stated Minister of Indigenous Relations, Richard Feehan. “These programs will help Indigenous organizations and communities reduce their emissions and energy bills while creating good jobs and a healthier, more diversified energy economy.”

Shannon Phillips, Alberta’s Minister of Environment and Parks said that the province’s Climate Leadership Plan “will make our economy greener, more diversified and more sustainable for future generations. To succeed in this and grow a provincial energy sector that includes renewables, we must ensure Indigenous communities have the capacity to participate in the process. These two programs are an important first step towards achieving these goals.”

Solar energy has been the talk-of-the-town for a few years now and several communities are already drawing

power from the sun. The Montana First Nation at Maskwacis founded the first Aboriginal-owned solar company in Canada last year when it created the Green Arrow Renewable Energy Corp. Now in a position to capitalize on newly introduced programs and funding initiatives the Nation is expected to soon add more offices and homes in its community to the solar grid; the pilot project already powers one home and the Montana band office.

Chief Darryl Strongman said that “being involved with solar is in line with our Elders, providing clean energy.”

He said the advice of the Elders has “always been (to) protect Mother Earth” and “do not poison Mother Earth.”

Green Arrow general manager Vickie Wetchie said the company “understands the important economic and environmental value of solar projects to First Nation communities. We work with communities to assess and provide consultation on their energy needs and we look forward to these new opportunities to continue serving the community.”

Neighbouring community, the Louis Bull Tribe, made its transition to solar power early this summer with the installation of solar panels on four community buildings; more are expected to be added in the coming months.

Solar panels have already been installed on the Louis Bull Health Services building as well as the Head Start Program, Adult Training Centre and the Public Works/Firehall building.

Early last fall the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation introduced solar energy to its community when it installed panels on its youth and Elder’s lodge. The Saddle Lake Cree Nation is in the process of setting up a solar energy project that will eventually power its water treatment plant.

A new 2016 solar energy campaign was initiated earlier this year when Greenpeace Climate and Energy Campaigner Mike Hudema had solar panels installed on his home. That initiative, Solar4All was designed to demonstrate “the potential of solar installations owned by individuals, communities, farmer associations, municipalities, and First Nations and Metis settlements.

The goal is to bring about a shifting in Alberta from an energy system that benefits a few, to one that benefits all."

“The aim,” stated Hudema, “is to engage Albertans in pushing the government to put individuals, communities, First Nations and Metis settlements first as it moves towards renewables. “We’re demonstrating that small scale rooftop solar and large scale solar installations owned by communities can and should lead Alberta’s energy transition because they ensure that the financial Continued on page 15

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Road to reconciliation must be journeyed in homes and schools

by John Copley On Monday, October 24 former Truth and Reconciliation (TRC) Commissioner Dr. Wilton (Willie) J. Littlechild and TRC Education leader Charlene Bearhead met with the public at the Southpointe Community Centre to discuss topics and strategies that centred around the past, present and future plans for reconciliation in Canada.

The three-hour session, which included a question and answer period, was presented by the River Community Church and emceed by Harold Roscher, the director and chaplain of the Edmonton Native Healing Centre. The goal, explained Roscher, was to present an opportunity for the community “to journey alongside the urban Aboriginal population” with the intention of aiding in the task of “reconnecting people to culture and ceremony.”

About 300 members of the community attended the event and their reaction to the comments from the podium made it clear that they not only have an appreciation of the issues, but that they also want to help ensure that the healing process for survivors continues in earnest as the Government of Canada works towards fulfilling the mandate of the TRC and its numerous Calls to Action.

“As a member of Treaty 6,” noted Bearhead early in her comments, “it’s nice to be home and to have this opportunity to speak to you tonight. It’s important to point out that most of the talk we hear about when it comes to the final days of the TRC’s six-year mandate is about the 94 recommendations that the three-person commission included in their final report.”

The term ‘recommendations,’ she pointed out is somewhat misleading because recommendations “are not binding” and the 94 directives outlined by the TRC are not recommendations, but instead “Calls to Action.”

Charlene Bearhead works with the University of Manitoba as the Education Lead for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. She is currently spearheading a campaign designed to not only educate the Canadian public about the consequences of nearly two centuries of Indian Residential Schools, but also to incorporate that knowledge into the education system. The

intent is for all citizens, today and tomorrow, to have a better understanding of why Indigenous peoples are having a difficult time keeping up with mainstream society when it comes to education, employment and social equality.

Dr. Wilton Littlechild and Charlene Bearhead “Reconciliation,” she noted, “is a broad term that introduces many questions. What future should look like.” is it? How does it work? Can we make it work? The There you will learn that the NCTR, established in 2015, answer is that reconciliation is different for each one of us isn’t just a temporary initiative, but one that is meant to last - for me it’s education.” forever. The Centre, you will learn, “was created to But, she noted, you don’t need to be an expert and you preserve the memory of Canada’s Residential School don’t need to be a teacher with specific qualifications. system and legacy, and will include the permanent “We are all teachers in our own way,” she explained. statements, documents, and other materials gathered “As fathers, mothers, aunts, uncles, grandparents - we during the six year mission the TRC completed last year. teach our children.”

The mandate of the NCTR will ensure that: survivors Addressing the 94 Calls to Action doesn’t require and their families have access to their own history; that knowledge or training in cultural protocol, she noted, it educators can share the Residential School history with “simply requires learning the facts and teaching the facts, new generations of students; that researchers can delve telling the truth and by being both understanding and kind more deeply into the Residential School experience; that to one another.” the public can access historical records and other materials Bearhead called on the audience to learn more about to help foster reconciliation and healing and that the TRC and what it is doing to help bridge the gap between history and legacy of the Residential School system are societal issues and Indigenous issues. She said that “if we never forgotten. can all be honest, open our hearts and our souls, and Like Charlene Bearhead, Dr. Wilton Littlechild is a acknowledge that we are all different, then we as fluent and intelligent speaker who addressed the audience individuals can decide what we can do next.” with facts and figures and statistics that bear witness to the Change, she noted, can begin in our homes and in our atrocities suffered by Indigenous peoples of Canada schools and by utilizing “visual demonstration” with during the residential school era. His goal wasn’t to lay simple things, day-to-day acts of recognition and blame, suggest guilt or present the frightening facts of awareness. For instance, “we are on Treaty 6 land and by those archaic days of yesteryear, but instead it was to open talking about it, by choosing to show the flags of our the eyes of those in attendance so they would have a better nations, by acknowledging the people” who have been understanding of the cause and effect that the residential here for a millennium, “we can all effect change. If we schools have had on Indigenous peoples. His goal was to know better, we can do better.” inform and educate the audience and give them a better Bearhead encouraged the audience to check out the idea of what they, as individuals and as a collective, can do National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR) on to help their communities and eventually the entire the University of Manitoba’s website (umanitoba.ca), country, bring reconciliation and healing full circle. “where you can watch video presentations and listen to young people discussing what they believe Canada’s Continued on page 15

10

Alberta Native News

November, 2016

Here's to your health

by Xavier Kataquapit With winter on the way I see a lot of people out and about in town wanting to connect with others. Northerners are hardy folk but we also have a lot of hard lifestyles that we follow. We tend to pride ourselves as big party types.

Many of our northern towns and cities have an abundance of places where we can drink until we drop. Few are into moderation.

When we are teens and up to middle age our bodies and minds are capable of taking a lot of abuse. However, now as I have reached the ripe old age of 40, I realize that some parts of my past are catching up with me. I am very grateful that I got sober 20 years ago and that has really helped me to fulfill some of my dreams with a more or less happy life.

These days I am beginning to feel the aches and pains of arthritis and I do not have the stamina I once had. A couple of decades ago I could work all day with few breaks in construction, logging, transport and freight duties and moving on the land. Perhaps I am suffering from male menopause in that I am taking stock of myself at the age of 40. One thing for sure is that this year has been a huge marker and milestone in my life. Much of that has to do with the fact that my mom Susan passed away this summer.

I am also watching old friends and family age with many health issues. Many have heart disease and diabetes for the most part. In recent years I have been educated on how diet and unhealthy lifestyles contribute mainly to these diseases and also cancers. For too many years my diet has been high in fat and sugar. That is a killer combination.

Too many northerners are stuck on terrible diets with lots of junk food. For years I had a steady diet of burgers,

fries, poutines, fried chicken, lots of meat, huge amounts of carbs like bread, pasta and potatoes and sugar filled treats. Don't get me wrong, I still enjoy some of these foods but more or less as a treat here and there these days.

I am terrified to end up with heart disease or diabetes as many of my family members and friends suffer from these diseases. For that reason I gave smoking and drinking 20 years ago. For the last few years I have been trying to follow a diet high in fibre and nutrition.

That means I am eating more raw vegetables in all kinds of salads. I am also eating black beans, lentils, kidney beans and chick peas as all of these foods are high in protein.

These high protein foods have replaced meat in my diet to a great degree although from time to time I will have a burger, a roast of beef, moose roast, pork tenderloin, beef steak, spaghetti and meatballs and even the odd poutine.

Happily, I have not found it so hard to pick up on healthy foods like vegetables, legumes and fruit. I also drink a lot of tea, some coffee and so much water.

As a result of this change in my diet I have lost more than 20 pounds and I know that my blood sugar levels are very good. Prior to changing my diet I was sick a lot during the year with flu, stomach problems and a general feeling of being tired most of the time. These days I notice that I am rarely sick and I do have more energy. I have discovered a real taste for raw vegetables and my day is not complete unless I am having a meal with plenty of raw carrots, lettuce, celery, broccoli, cauliflower, onion and cucumbers. I am also trying to get a brisk walk in for half an hour a day at least four times a week.

I hope that if you are having problem with heart disease, diabetes and being overweight that you can take some encouragement

from me and make the move to change your lifestyle. It might seem like a difficult thing to do but really after a little effort you will find that eating more vegetables, legumes and fruit and less meat and fried foods you will improve your health substantially. I have a few people I look up to on how to lead a healthy lifestyle. My good friend Alana Pierini and my sister in law Christine Rose have been following such healthy diets for decades and they look half their age so I know it works. We need more hardy northerners that play hard, party moderately, eat healthy and get a lot of exercise.

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

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November Is Family Violence Prevention Month in Alberta November is Family Violence Prevention Month in Alberta and Albertans are reminded that everyone has a responsibility to end family violence in their community by focusing efforts to increase awareness and promote public education on these crimes.

Family violence can happen to anyone, regardless of their age, ethnicity, education, sexual orientation or gender. It happens to couples who are dating and to those who are married or living together. It also happens to children and seniors.

The Government of Alberta and communities across the province are taking action to address family violence. Led

by Human Services, eight ministries are involved in the provincial response to family violence. They work closely with local community agencies, women’s shelters, sexual assault services, law enforcement, health services and others to help Albertans in a family violence situation.

“The physical, emotional and mental impacts of violence, on families and communities throughout Alberta, cannot be overstated,” said Irfan Sabir, Minister of Human Services. “No one should live in fear for their life and safety, nor suffer alone as a survivor. We will continue to work with community partners to take strong action on prevention efforts, and provide critical supports to survivors of family violence.”

In 1986, the Hinton Society for the Prevention of Family Violence, the only one of its kind in Alberta, was formed by a small group of concerned citizens. The Society started an education campaign aimed at family violence prevention and at improving local services.

This grassroots effort inspired the Alberta Legislature to support family violence prevention as an ongoing provincial initiative, resulting in the creation of Family Violence Prevention Month. This year marks the 30th anniversary of Family Violence Prevention Month in Alberta.

Today, hundreds of Alberta communities and thousands of individuals are actively involved in preventing family violence by providing public education and services.

This year’s provincial theme is Reach Out. Speak Out. It

inspires all of us to take action now and in the future to end family violence and support survivors. At the same time, the theme also recognizes those who have worked tirelessly over the years to make a difference in their communities.

In a ceremony held at Government House on November 4 in Edmonton, this year’s Inspiration Awards recipients included a diverse group of people from across the province. They were honoured for their work in the areas of the prevention of family violence, sexual assault, child abuse and bullying.

A special award was given to Susan Scott, Calgary, who has been instrumental in shedding light on family violence and its connection to homelessness for women in Canada. Susan’s efforts have led to the development of three affordable housing projects for women in Calgary, Canada’s first Housing First project at Discovery House for women fleeing violence, and the establishment of Brenda’s House, a family emergency shelter in Calgary.

An outstanding service and dedication award was given posthumously to Patrick Dillon, Edmonton, who dedicated his life to the service of others and was passionate about working to build healthy children and families. Patrick was the Provincial Coordinator for the Alberta Father Involvement Initiative, a forerunner in the work of engaging men as allies in the prevention of family violence. Patrick believed in living life to the fullest, and is an example for all of us to live our best life every day. He is deeply missed.

A business leader award was presented to Len Rhodes, Edmonton, President and CEO of the Edmonton Eskimos.

He committed the football club to partner with the Calgary Stampeders to be an integral part of the Alberta Council of Women’s Shelters Leading Change program. More recently, he served as Co-Chair for the Lurana Shelter Society Avenue of Hope Gala, and was named a CEASE (Centre to End All Sexual Exploitation) Man of Honour for his efforts in assisting WIN House and women who are

survivors of domestic violence.

One of the group awards for leadership in Family Violence Prevention was presented to Central Alberta Regional Vision for Non-Violence Coalition. Through collaboration, the Coalition is addressing family violence and bullying in their communities. The communities involved include Benalto, Bentley, Blackfalds, Bowden, Delburne, Eckville, Elnora, Innisfail, Lacombe, Rimbey, Rocky Mountain House, Stettler and Sylvan Lake.

Other group awards were presented to the Alberta Alliance for the Safety of Animals and People and to Lives in Transition, Edmonton.

Find information and resources by calling the 24-hour Family Violence Info Line at 310-1818, toll-free, or visit endfamilyviolence.albert.ca.

Anyone with concerns about a child being abused or neglected should contact their local Human Services Office, Delegated First Nations Agency or police. The confidential Child Abuse hotline is available at 1-800-387KIDS (5437), 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

12

Alberta Native News

Number” is a powerful teaching tool that brings a terrible part of Canada’s history to light in a way that children can learn from and relate to. It is written in simple language and told in a way that will stimulate conversations about residential schools and the traumatic effects they have had (ANNews) - Teaching children about the Indian on generations of First Nation families and communities.

Residential School era is very difficult but it is vitally The book is beautifully illustrated by Gillian Newland. important. Indigenous educator Dr. Jenny Kay Dupuis She captures the somber mood of the school, the anguish and award winning author Kathy Kacer meet this of the children, the severity of the nuns and the challenge effectively and beautifully in their recently desperation of the family. Students can easily empathize published picture book entitled “I am Not a Number.” with Irene and her brothers as well as their parents as they The two collaborate to tell the story of eight-year-old try to imagine how they would feel or act in a similar Irene and her family who live happily on the Nipissing situation.

First Nation until a government agent comes to their “I Am Not a Number” includes a special concluding home to take Irene and two of her brothers away to live section with photographs of the real-life Irene and her in a residential school far from their community. Irene’s family and a written description of the Residential School parents don’t want to send their children away but they System. are given no choice.

Dr. Jenny Kay Dupuis is of Anishinaabe/Ojibway At the residential school, Irene is separated from her ancestry and is a proud member of Nipissing First Nation. brothers; she is confused, frightened, and terribly She is an educator, researcher, artist and speaker who homesick. She tries to remember who she is and where works full-time supporting the advancement of she came from, despite the efforts of the nuns who are in Indigenous education. Kathy Kacer is a former charge at the school. They denigrate her and tell her that psychologist and acclaimed author, known for her she is not to use her own name but instead use the number children’s books about the Holocaust. they have assigned to her. When she goes home for "I Am Not a Number" (isbn: 9781927583944) is summer holidays, Irene's parents decide never to send her published by Second Story Press (secondstorypress.ca), and her brothers away again. But where will they hide? a Canadian-based publishing house that was founded in And what will happen when her parents disobey the law? 1988 and is dedicated to publishing “great books that Based on the life of co-author Jenny Kay Dupuis’ matter” for adults and young readers. Their catalogue of grandmother Irene Couchie Dupuis, “I Am Not a award winning books includes fiction and non-fiction as

November, 2016

Book Review

I Am Not a Number

Consensus

cont. from p 4

table and come together with a plan that can make all parties happy.

Trust is everything, so it isn’t difficult to understand that when it comes to Indigenous Canadians and communities, there is very little trust, especially when government or entities supporting government are involved. The last bit of trust that many First Nations had for government was in 2005 when Paul Martin’s federal Liberal Party was within days of signing the very important Kelowna Accord, only to see that goal squashed when Harper’s newly elected Conservatives came to power. The game-changing document that sought to improve the education, employment, and living conditions for Aboriginal peoples through governmental funding and other programs never saw the light of day and Harper went on to ignore and even compromise whatever trust had been built during Martin’s term in office.

Promises made by Harper’s regime were never kept; apologies offered were insincere and the word of government was little more than a joke, a bad joke that created more disgust and distrust between Indigenous Canadians and government than ever before.

But that distrust goes a step further today because the two opposing sides to the issues related to pipelines and oil are both Indigenous; those totally opposed to oil and gas expansion in or across their territories and those communities already benefitting from oil and gas agreements. To date there is little common understanding

between the two factions, but hope springs eternal.

Stephen Buffalo, the head of the Indian Resource Council, knows that oil and gas partnerships help to pay the bills, save for the future and generate funds that can improve everything from employment opportunities to funding new and muchneeded infrastructure. He said he supports those Nations who do not want to see their lands developed, but also notes that creating economic opportunities also creates employment.

"As Indigenous peoples,” he said last month, “we've always been consumers of goods and services, not producers of goods and services. We need to fit into that chain somewhere.

That's wealth creation, that's job creation. We will make sure that things are done right to protect Mother Earth, but we need a revenue stream too.”

There are many First Nations in Canada that have partnerships with oil and gas-related industries; there have been very few spills and even fewer serious spills in these participating communities over the last decade and more.

In fact, poorly maintained train tracks have caused more toxic oil and chemical spills and serious incidents than anything else. And they are still running across the country and with very little opposition.

Treaty Alliance members come mainly from British Columbia and Quebec, two provinces that choose to generate power by building dams and flooding river

well as picture books for children. They generally feature strong female characters and explore themes of social justice, human rights, equality and ability issues.

valleys; their position is understandable but the fact that they insist that Alberta shut down its oil sands development, is not.

Somewhere within the various arguments brought forth by the two sides of the pipeline debate there surely has to be an out, one that can create benefits for all parties and one that can ensure that before development begins, there is a consensus of what it will take to ensure that the environment receives the protection it needs. It might be a steep hill to climb, but it’s time to utilize common sense, and good will and realize that fighting with government is one thing, but fighting with brothers and sisters is quite another. It is time to quit the bickering. It is time to sit down together and iron out a few policies that will benefit every Indigenous community with opportunities that ensure a healthy environment while at the same time creating growth and allowing all Nations to benefit through economic development opportunities.

November, 2016

Alberta Native News

13

AIDS awareness needed at the community level OTTAWA, CNW/ - The Canadian Aboriginal AIDS Network (CAAN) announces Aboriginal leadership and their supporters, including the Canadian Global Health All-Parliamentary Caucus on HIV TB & Malaria, will gather on December 1, 2016 in Ottawa, ON to launch Aboriginal AIDS Awareness Week 2016. It will be followed December 2 – 6, 2016 by workshops across the country (Vancouver, Edmonton, Saskatoon, Winnipeg, Haines Junction, Toronto, and more) to continue discussions on Aboriginal HIV and AIDS issues in Canada.

First Nations, Inuit, and Métis organizations continue to respond to HIV and AIDS with community-based initiatives, but they are still over-represented and experiencing epidemic proportions 2.7 times higher than other Canadians. In a parallel theme to international World AIDS Day: Hands Up for #HIVPrevention, Aboriginal Peoples across Canada are putting up their hands to create community readiness and culturally safe approaches in order to stop this epidemic. Hands up by leading an Indigenous response, testing to "know your status", eliminating stigma and discrimination, ensuring equitable access, and protecting our whole community.

This series of events across Canada will connect Aboriginal organizations, government partners, health care providers, and community leaders as they reflect on what has been achieved with regard to an Indigenous

response to HIV, what must still be achieved, and how recent Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) funding cuts will affect their role with the UNAIDS 90-90-90 Fast Track Strategy for HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention.

UNAIDS has put out an urgent call for front-load funding so that by 2020, 90% of all people living with HIV will know their HIV status, 90% of all people with diagnosed HIV infection will receive sustained antiretroviral therapy, and 90% of all people receiving antiretroviral therapy will have viral suppression in order to end the epidemic by 2030. This is why the federal government has pledged $804 million to international efforts on AIDS; yet within Canada, CAAN and other HIV service organizations have had their federal funding drastically cut or completely discontinued.

"The impact of PHAC's decision to severely reduce funding for CAAN decimates the leading voice of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples living with HIV or AIDS and will have far-reaching consequences on both Indigenous health and reconciliation," stated Ken Clement, CEO of Canadian Aboriginal AIDS Network. "It is our hope that over Aboriginal AIDS Awareness Week we will find ways to hold the process accountable in order to restore and create wellness opportunities for Indigenous Peoples."

The Canadian Aboriginal AIDS Network and its co-

Honouring and thanking Indigenous Veterans (CNW) –On the day leading up to Remembrance Day, Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Perry Bellegarde reinvigorated the AFN's longstanding commitment to action and advocacy for First Nations veterans. National Chief Bellegarde convened a gathering in Ottawa of First Nations veterans from across the country to set priorities and establish a new AFN Working Group on First Nations Veterans Affairs. The following day, National Chief and First Nations veterans participated in Remembrance Day ceremonies in Ottawa.

"The AFN is deeply committed to keeping First Nations veterans at the forefront of all our work. Today we revitalize these efforts for our brave women and men who served proudly and with distinction," said National Chief Bellegarde. "This Remembrance Day, I vow to stand with them as we push for fairness, recognition and respect for every First Nations veteran, young or old, and for their families."

The November 10th meeting focused on the priorities of First Nations veterans and included representatives from Veterans Affairs Canada. Discussion ranged from securing benefits and inclusion of ceremonial means of calling home the spirits of fallen comrades lost overseas. Veterans requested the National Chief seek formal support from the Royal Canadian Legion Dominion Command for a gathering of First Nations veterans as a step towards reestablishing the First Nations Veterans Association, and to press for resources from Veteran Affairs Canada to support these efforts.

The Assembly of First Nations laid two wreaths at Canada's National War Memorial during Friday's Remembrance Day ceremony. One wreath was laid by AFN National Chief Perry Bellegarde. A second wreath was laid on behalf of all First Nations veterans in Canada

by Alan Knockwood, a Mi'kmaq from Nova Scotia and a veteran from the Vietnam era.

"It was a sincere pleasure joining National Chief Bellegarde and fellow vets from across Turtle Island today

at the AFN," said Mr. Knockwood. "I'm greatly looking forward to getting our new Working Group off the ground.

It's high time this level of sprit and energy were brought toward First Nations veterans issues."

AFN Chiefs-in-Assembly have passed dozens of resolutions over the years pertaining to the rights of First Nations veterans. For more than two decades, the Assembly of First Nations has had a presence at every national Remembrance Day ceremony in Canada. It was not until 1995 that Indigenous peoples were allowed to lay wreaths at the National War Memorial.

Coast to coast to coast, First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples have made many immeasurable contributions to Canada’s armed forces that have help shape Canada.

Indigenous men and women have helped define our military history for over 200 years. As many as 12,000 served Canada in the great conflicts and peace support missions of the 20th century, with at least 500 giving their lives. In this century, Indigenous Veterans have served with honour and distinction overseas and their dedication continues in peacekeeping operations in faraway lands.

“November 8 has been designated as Aboriginal Veterans Day,” said Aboriginal Veterans Autochones Robert Thibeau. “This is a solemn reminder of the sacrifice made by our indigenous Peoples and their commitment to Canada. We honour the memory of those who have fallen in battles from our First Nations, Metis and Inuit communities who fought alongside other Canadians, in many global conflicts, for the preservation

hosts, Pauktuutit Inuit Women's Association of Canada, Interagency Coalition on AIDS and Development (ICAD) and invite you to participate in Aboriginal AIDS Awareness Week as it brings awareness to the different aspects of HIV prevention and key populations such as Aboriginal women and youth living with HIV and AIDS. Canadian Aboriginal AIDS Network could lose up to 70% of its funding and calls for supporters to sign an online petition at www.change.org/CAAN For more information or to RSVP, visit: www.aboriginalaidsawareness.com. of peace and security. We also honour those who continue to serve this great country. Your sacrifice will never be forgotten.”

“Veterans’ Week is a time to remember the courage and sacrifice of those who have served Canada from past to present, and express our endless gratitude for their service” said Kent Hehr, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence.

“As we pause today to mark Aboriginal Veterans Day, we thank the thousands of Indigenous Canadians in uniform who answered the call of duty and made the ultimate sacrifice. Their contributions and efforts have helped our country in its efforts to make this world a safer place.”

On Aboriginal Veterans Day, all Canadians were encouraged to join in honouring and thanking these Indigenous men and woman and to help preserve their legacy for future generations.

“Reconciliation is about all Canadians making efforts to better understand our history and chart a new path together, and that includes learning about the sacrifices made by First Nations, Métis, and Inuit women and men serving in the Canadian Armed Forces,” added Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs Carolyn Bennett. “We thank and honour all those who served, those who lost their lives and those whose lives were changed forever.”

Aboriginal Veterans Day is a “special day to honour the Indigenous people of Canada who have provided voluntary military service to Canada since 1812," concluded Richard Blackwolf, President of Canadian Aboriginal Veterans and Serving Members Association.

Today, more than 1,200 First Nations, Inuit and Métis people serve with the Canadian Armed Forces.

14

Alberta Native News

November, 2016

Report: Rampant resource development puts Indigenous women at risk of violence Decades of unchecked resource development and government policy failures have strained the social fabric of communities in northeast British Columbia (BC), Canada, and have put the lives and safety of Indigenous women and girls at great risk, Amnesty International said in a new report.

The report, Out of Sight, Out of Mind, demonstrates how resource development in northeast BC has eroded the land base that provides the foundation for First Nations and Métis health and wellness in the region, while influxes of transient workers have driven up local prices for essentials such as housing. Increased rates of violent crime and diminished access to social services have placed Indigenous women and girls at increased risk of harm, while denying them the protections and support they need.

Northeast BC has one of the highest violent crime rates in Canada.

“Unbridled resource development in this region is creating an environment where Indigenous women and girls are confronted with levels of extreme violence that are shocking and pervasive, even when compared to the already-deplorable level of marginalization this group confronts in Canadian society more broadly,” said Erika Guevara Rosas, Americas Regional Director for Amnesty International. “The fact that these deeply troubling realities are not being addressed and prioritized when policy makers take decisions on resource development is a grave and troubling failure on Canada’s part.”

For more than 30 years, government ministries, independent researchers, and Indigenous peoples’ organizations have highlighted many of the same concerns outlined in Amnesty International’s report. Despite these warnings, federal and provincial authorities have failed to take sufficient action to mitigate the impact of resource development on the rights of Indigenous women and girls.

“Given all of these previous reports, Amnesty International’s findings should not be a surprise to

authorities in Canada. It is stunning that the federal and provincial governments have still failed to ensure human rights are properly protected before development projects are approved,” said Alex Neve, Secretary-General of Amnesty International Canada (English).

Among the concerns documented in Amnesty International’s report are: Well-documented patterns of binge-drinking and drug abuse among some resource sector workers in northeast BC which contribute to the high rate of violent crime; Economic insecurity created by greatly elevated local prices for essentials like housing, and increased competition for services like childcare, makes it much harder for women without access to high wages to leave violent relationships; Extensive loss of land has made it harder for Indigenous families to maintain traditions like hunting and gathering plant medicines that are indispensable to the health and wellness of their communities; and Underfunded social services agencies are in a state of crisis and cannot meet the urgent needs of the community.

Northeast BC is home to some of the most intensive resource development anywhere in Canada, including thousands of oil and gas wells and a third major hydroelectric project, the Site C dam, is now under construction on the Peace River. Although a global downturn in the energy sector has slowed the pace of new development in the northeast, construction is proceeding on the Site C dam and the provincial government continues to predict future growth in the production and export of liquefied natural gas (LNG).

“Some resource projects, like the Site C dam, simply shouldn’t proceed because the harm that is being done to Indigenous peoples cannot be justified,” said Alex Neve.

“For all others, the decision-making process needs to be reformed to ensure that the potential risks to the most marginalized are identified and effective mitigation strategies put in place.”

“When Canada provides international assistance through development projects in other countries, the federal government requires a gender-impact assessment.

Resource development projects within Canada should not be held to a lower standard,” said Erika Guevara-Rosas.

The new report makes 30 recommendations to all levels of government, law enforcement and private industry, including: Reform of the decision-making process around resource development to ensure a greater role for Indigenous peoples and introduction of requirements to examine specific impacts on women and girls; A regional review of the cumulative social impacts already experienced as a result of intensive resource development in the northeast; A regional assessment of social service and infrastructure needs in the northeast; An overall increase in social service funding in BC, with specific investment in northeast BC. The federal government recently launched a National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. Amnesty is urging that the inquiry examine the role of the current model of resource development in contributing to the risks faced by Indigenous women and girls in northeast BC and across Canada.

“If these threats to the safety and wellness of Indigenous women and girls are not acknowledged and addressed, the work being undertaken by Canada’s National Inquiry will be undermined,” said Alex Neve.

Amnesty International’s research in northeast BC builds on the organization’s longstanding Stolen Sisters campaign to end violence against Indigenous women and girls in Canada, and on a larger body of work to ensure that the rights of all Indigenous peoples in Canada are respected, protected and fulfilled.

November, 2016

Reconciliation

Alberta Native News cont. from p 9

As a residential school survivor, Dr. Littlechild’s awareness of reconciliation issues is inherent; as a learned scholar and a practicing attorney his knowledge of the facts is unmatched by those who have not walked in his shoes. He addressed the audience not only as an educated speaker but also as a survivor who understands the importance of healing, who realizes that the stereotyping and marginalization that Indigenous peoples have been subjected to since colonization must come to an end if Canada is ever to truly realize how great it can really become.

He talked about the silence that has helped perpetuate the conception that many Canadians have when it comes to the country’s Aboriginal populations, noting that for far too long no one knew or understood what was happening to Canada’s First Citizens because there was an ongoing push to ‘settle out of court.’

“When you settle out of court,” he noted, “no one learns anything about you.”

The former commissioner spoke to the audience about how and why children were removed from their homes and families and how a parent would be jailed if they tried to protect their children. He talked about the missed opportunities that parents had to raise their children and the consequences of those children growing into adults without the knowledge of how to raise a child or even become a member of a family or community. He spoke about physical, sexual, emotional and mental trauma that many children faced in the schools and about the loss of their spiritual and cultural connections to their own communities. He spoke about the loss of identity and the inevitable punishments children faced if they even spoke a word of their own language in the schools. He spoke about the parents who’d lost their children to church and government officials, and emphasized what that loss can mean to a mother and father and the community as a

Solar Energy

cont. from p 8

benefits are shared with everyone.”

Keepers of the Athabasca have endorsed and are participating in the Solar4All campaign. In a press statement the organization, a consortium that includes First Nations, Metis, Inuit, environmental groups, and Watershed citizens, said that “our information tables this summer in Athabasca, Slave Lake, High Prairie, North Country Fair, and Sucker Creek Pow wow, were met with so much enthusiasm, and hundreds of signatures.

Solar4All believes that everyone who wants to access solar energy should be able to do so. We think small-scale distributed solar facilities, owned by individuals, First Nations, cooperatives, and community groups, could play an important part in Alberta’s energy system and provide economic opportunity for millions of Albertans.

Government can provide leadership.”

And they are. And according to the Pembina Institute

whole.

“They went from being a vibrant and healthy family to endless days of nothingness.”

As former students returned to their communities or to the streets of the city they turned to alcohol because they’d lost all hope and needed something to help them get over the fact that the mission of both government and church was to ‘kill the Indian in the child.’

“Learning more about what happened in those schools, schools that didn’t finish closing down until 1996, is very important” he said, “but even more important is asking ourselves: what can we do to get to the reconciliation stage?”

Dr. Littlechild also spoke about the difficulty the Commission had when talking to people about their experiences because “we were asking people to talk about things they are trying to forget.”

The Commission visited more than 300 communities during Dr. Littlechild’s six-year term as a TRC Commissioner. He noted that about one third would not talk about their experiences while about two-thirds said they would try, in an effort to bring "closure" to that horrible chapter of their lives.

Some of the residential school students, he noted, were told that they were the devil’s children; some were told that they were less than human. Others were told that would never see their mothers again and “many didn’t know what love is and said they’d never experienced it. I remember that it was at our first gathering in Halifax that we began by saying: I love you; we love you.”

During his talk Dr. Littlechild also spoke about the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and the establishment of the 10 Principles of Reconciliation that need to be followed if reconciliation is to become a viable tool that will enable the healing process to be effective. He addressed the themes of the seven National Events held by the TRC noting “that in Winnipeg it was Respect; in Inuvik, it was Courage; in Halifax, it that’s good news because solar power, they say, will only become even more beneficial.

What does this mean for Alberta’s solar energy opportunity?

“For solar energy,” assured the Institute, “this increasing alignment with both the timing and location of peak demand will displace the most costly power in a system, which significantly lowers the overall price of electricity to consumers by lowering the price of all power at that time in the wholesale market. It will also mitigate the need for new electricity system distribution and transmission infrastructure, which would otherwise have to be built to meet the growing peak

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was Love, in Saskatoon, it was Truth; in Montreal, it was Humility; in Vancouver, it was Honesty and in Edmonton it was Wisdom.”

The last two of the 10 Principles of Reconciliation are among the most important when it comes to helping the Canadian community understand the role that their participation will play in the reconciliation process.

“Reconciliation requires political will, joint leadership, trust building, accountability, transparency and investment of resources,” and it requires “sustained public education, dialogue and youth engagement about the history and legacy of residential schools, treaties and Aboriginal rights and past and present contributions of Indigenous peoples to Canadian society.”

Education it was noted throughout the meeting, will be the prime mover when it comes to including Canadian citizens as an integral part in the reconciliation process.

Together, Charlene Bearhead and Wilton Littlechild painted a picture that everyone at the meeting seemed to understand. After a rousing standing ovation, the two speakers fielded numerous questions from the audience.

The evening concluded with a nod and a smile from the moderators and a comment that declared: “this was a very good meeting.” demand and paid for by consumers and (it will) avoid system losses by producing energy right where it’s needed. In short, it means solar will provide energy just when and where we need it most. And given clear trends, what solar offers will only become more and more important over time.”

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Alberta Native News

November, 2016