Volume 34 Number 10 October, 2017
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ALBERTA NATIVE NEWS
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Cover art: Before and After Š by Jane Ash Poitras. Reprinted with permission.
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Alberta Native News
October, 2017
Amiskwaciy Academy hosts annual Fall Feast By John Copley Amiskwaciy Academy’s 2017 Fall Feast took place at the Kingsway Avenue-based sschool in Edmonton on Friday, October 6, and once again the annual initiative attracted a full house as parents, supporters, volunteers, community partners, donors, teachers and students from across the district joined together to bring closure to the warm months of summer as they prepare for the next few months of study. Following a prayer by Amiskwaciy Elder Francis Whiskeyjack and another (in the Blackfoot language) by Grade 10 student Shantea Eaglechild, Principal Fred Hines acknowledged Elders Whiskeyjack, Don Langford, Jeanette Lean and Leith Campbell and (in spirit) Marge Friedel and Joe P. Cardinal. He also introduced Alberta Education Minister David Eggen, Edmonton City Councillor (Ward 6) Scott McKeen, the Amiskwaciy seniors group, led by Lynn Rush, the Marge Friedel family, EPSB Vice Chair Ray Martin and Trustees Bridget Stirling, Orville Chubb and Sherry Adams. Also attending was EPSB Assistant Superintendent Kent Pharis and Executive Assistant Cody Hoddinott, FNMI Unit member Kristen Miller and General Counsel member Grace Cook. Two special guests, Yazan Haymour (Canadian Arab Friendship Association) and Habiba Shurie (EPSB Somalian Liaison) were also introduced. Hines also welcomed and thanked community supporters and partners that included the Edmonton Police Service, Stantec, Ledcor, the Royal Bank, MacEwan University and Louise Hayes, a member of the Alberta Aboriginal Relations office. Ray Martin was asked to comment and taking the podium smiled and noted: “It’s hard to believe that the fall season is here already.” Martin, who was a Trustee at the school before assuming his new position last year told the gathering that he was “honoured to participate in this special day, a changing of the seasons. Coming to Amiskwaciy Academy is both enjoyable and important; a day when family and community come together to share stories and be reminded of the rich heritage shared by First Nation, Métis and Inuit cultures, something we can all take great pride in. It reminds us of the benefits we all share by keeping this friendship and culture alive, and making sure that it continues to flourish for many more generations in the years to come. “Amiskwaciy Academy is a unique place that brings together Cree language, culture and knowledge in a positive and quality educational setting. Today’s gathering recognizes how we are all connected; Amiskwaciy’s teaching styles and learning opportunities reflect this connection through the involvement of Elders, community partners, family and a committed teaching staff that help to create a holistic learning environment. These values also reflect those of Edmonton Public Schools as we work together to transform the learners of today into the leaders of tomorrow. Today’s feast is a ceremony, rooted in strong, rich traditions of the past, but it is also a celebration of the future and the potential of new life and opportunity to come.” Ray Martin was honoured for the work he’s done with the school over the years both as an EPSB Trustee and a friend. In addition to a video collage that highlighted some of the new additions to the school, Hines welcomed him to the stage where he was presented with a beautiful blanket and cheered on by members of the EPS as well as school trustees, Education Minister David Eggen, school/community Elders and EPSB Assistant Superintendent Kent Pharis. Following the presentation of the blanket and video tribute to Ray Martin for the work and the wisdom he’s left as his legacy to the academy, Minister Eggen, was asked to say a few words. “I’m pleased to be here today on behalf my myself and the Government of Alberta, to offer a few words about Ray Martin,” said Eggen. “Ray and I have known each other for many years and worked together in the legislature. Ray has always proven to be a true leader and a valuable asset to the school system, not just here in Edmonton but across the whole province as well.” When Principal Hines asked the audience to show their appreciation for Martin’s work, the crowd rose to its feet; the standing ovation went on for a full 60 seconds. Eggen, twice elected as MLA for Edmonton-Calder (2012 and 2015) was sworn in as Minister of Education on May 24, 2015. He represented the constituency from 2004 to 2008, has served as a member of numerous committees and as the ND's critic for energy, education, environment and sustainable resource development. Michael and Karen Goldstein were presented with a Raven Blanket in honour of their ongoing work with the academy and for the beautiful serigraph entitled “Asking for Continued on page 5
October, 2017
Alberta Native News
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Nat'l Gathering of Elders provided crucial dialogue By John Copley When four and a half thousand Indigenous Elders made their way into the spacious Hall ‘D’ meeting room at the Northlands Expo Centre on September 11, 2017 it brought fruition to a vision by Treaty 8 Grand Chief and leader of the Tallcree First Nation’s Tribal Government, Chief Rupert Meneen. That vision was to host a National Gathering of Elders (NGE) in Edmonton, a gathering that would bring First Nation, Métis and Inuit Elders together to talk not only about their respective cultures, experiences and traditions, but also to discuss the similar problems they face and the concerns they share for the future. The September 11-14 event introduced a number of activities, including a Parade of Nations, three Intertribal Showcases that focused on First Nation, Métis and Inuit culture, tradition and entertainment, a film about Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, a tour of Fort Edmonton Park and an opportunity to participate in a Sweat Ceremony. Throughout the course of the gathering everyone who attended was able to take advantage of the many Holistic Wellness sessions being offered by experienced practitioners. The focus of the four-day gathering was to identify and discuss possible solutions to some of today’s major concerns and come up with initiatives that will enable all of Canada’s Indigenous peoples to move forward together in positive and meaningful ways. Five different Elder’s Forums provided the venue with both general conversation and meaningful dialogue on Reconciliation, Climate Change, Revitalization of Culture and Language, Indigenous Health and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. Each forum was presented by panel members representing the First Nation, Métis and Inuit peoples; once the five sessions were completed keynote speakers delivered their findings to the gathering. Before the panel speakers delivered their addresses NGE co-emcee Tom Ghostkeeper introduced several members of the Grandmothers' Council of Manitoba (GCM). The Council has worked with the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) for the past three years. The Elder speaking for the Grandmothers' Council noted: “In 2014 a formal regulation was passed by the Assembly’s Chiefs in Council acknowledging a Grandmothers' Council to direct, to guide and to support our leadership in Manitoba. As a formal part of the AMC we provide direction, advice and counsel.” The GCM arrived on the first day of the gathering, “and we have met and talked to hundreds of people and participated in the various forums. All of the topics embraced in the forums today are areas of concern to all of
our communities, our families and especially to our children.” One of the biggest areas of concern for the Council is the flagrant disparity found when comparing child care and the child welfare system in the Indigenous community versus the nonThe Elder from the Grandmothers' Council spoke about the importance Indigenous community. The group of reducing the apprehension rate of Indigenous children in Manitoba. urged others attending the gathering to get involved in making a On September 13, 2007 the United Nations adopted the difference in their communities. Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Treaty 6 “In Manitoba,” she noted, “we have the highest child Grand Chief Wilton Littlechild, a major proponent of that apprehension rate in the western world; we have the was scheduled to offer a keynote address on Declaration, lowest threshold for child apprehension in North Reconciliation after hosting the NGE panel with Phyllis America.” Googoo (First Nation), Susanne Calliou (Métis) and Jean She explained that more than 89 percent of the 11000 (Inuit). Dr. Littlechild left for the United States to Gruben children currently in Manitoba’s child welfare system are attend a ten-year anniversary gathering supporting the UN Indigenous children. Declaration and Alexis Nakota Sioux First Nation Chief “Manitoba also leads the country on newborn Tony Alexis took his place on the podium and offered apprehensions with an average of 30 to 40 babies taken highlights from Tuesday’s Reconciliation Forum. He every month - and that’s from just from one of Winnipeg’s the work that Tallcree Nation Chief Rupert recognized hospitals. That’s about 400 babies every year that are taken from our mothers, from our families and from our Meneen and his wife accomplished while getting ready to communities. Elders have said this is worse than the host the biggest gathering of Indigenous Elders ever held Indian Residential Schools; it’s a billion-dollar industry. in Canada, and thanked the Elders for the ongoing work Most shocking is the fact that from 2011 to 2016 a total of they do to bring improvement to Canada’s three distinct 304 children died while in the care of child welfare Indigenous communities. Chief Alexis spoke about the panel session, noting that services.” Elders were visibility upset, even angry when the some The Grandmothers' Council wants the province to take subject of residential schools came up, schools that were meaningful action by first investigating the flaws in its designed to split families and denounce Indigenous current system, and then revamping the entire ministry lifestyles, customs and traditions in a genocidal plot to while providing Indigenous women and their families eradicate/eliminate Indigenous peoples in Canada. with the resources they need to succeed. The Council “Reconciliation,” noted Chief Alexis, “starts with noted that inclusion, communication and participation by acknowledging the impact of residential schools. More Indigenous families and communities is a prerequisite to than one half of those who attended the Reconciliation meaningful change. “We invite grandmothers to join us because these are Continued on page 10 our children. We need to bring them home; our children are our future,” stated the Elder. “Without our children we have no future. We have a sacred responsibility as grandmothers and caretakers of our homes, our families and our home fires to do something about it.”
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Alberta Native News
October, 2017
Oteenow Career Fair offers employment options to job seekers By Regan Treewater The Oteenow Training and Employment Society has helped match employers with First Nations and Inuit jobseekers from metro Edmonton and the greater Edmonton area since 1992. Their mission is “to connect First Nations and Inuit people who live in Edmonton and area, and who are ready for meaningful careers, with a wide range of employment and training programs, services, and opportunities so that they can become self-reliant and lead productive lives.” On a drizzly grey October morning, the Edmonton Northlands Expo Centre conference room was a buzz with activity and the excited chatter of job-seekers. Armed with small heaps of resumes, and dressed in their interview ready best, they set forth in search of new opportunities. Organized into neat rows of booths with uniform fold-out tables, each potential employer displayed stacks of fanned-out brochures, job applications and customary conference swag. Cautious at first, but soon seized by eagerness and determination, people began to slowly weave their way through the room. Oteenow believes that, “Good work matters – it enriches the lives of employers and employees alike.” The types of potential employers participating in the job fair were quite varied: Service Canada, The River Cree Casino and Seven Lakes Oilfield Services among them. In addition to traditional jobs, Oteenow’s event presented guests with a wealth of information about continuing education and training programs. At the Red Seal Program’s booth, visitors learned the ins and outs of Canada’s journeyman certification process and the heights to which such a credential could take them. At the Alberta Indian Investment Corporation’s booth aspiring entrepreneurs learned about how AIIC could help them open their own business through five-year loans. Faces lit up as barriers came tumbling down and new opportunities presented themselves. One of the most popular tables at the event was the NorQuest College booth. As the colourful glossy pages of
the NorQuest 2018/19 catalogue flipped open, booth attendants were inundated with questions. Patrons began to envision themselves in the showcased careers, and for a crowd gathered to hear about the Flight Attendant Program, imaginations took flight. Graduates, they learned, would not only receive comprehensive vocational training, but would additionally earn their Certified Guest Services Professional designation and their nationallyrecognized Food Safety and WHMIS certifications. As testament to their commitment to post-graduation career placement, booth attendants explained that a key part of the Flight Attendant Program is the ongoing interview and resume building support. Others were captivated by the Hospitality Management Program, realizing that this title was not just a euphemism for ‘server.’ This track would provide them with basic accounting and financial training, in addition to honing their professional sales and business management skills. These were but two paths from the impressive list of NorQuest offerings. Tucked away in the corner of the room to accommodate their audio-visual setup was one of Canada’s best kept secrets – the Bold Eagle program. “Bold Eagle is a partnership between the Department of National Defence, First Nations and Indigenous organizations in Western Canada. From its origin in Saskatchewan, it has expanded to allow participation by Indigenous youth from all four Western provinces and Northwestern Ontario. Bold Eagle develops: teamwork skills, self discipline, self confidence and physical fitness.” A professionally produced documentary being screened at the booth explained how fighting and combat were the last things those enrolled associated with their Bold Eagle training. Many of those interviewed in the film described how they had sought out the program because of the structure it provided. Through Bold Eagle, enlistees are guaranteed their rights to spiritual worship and cultural observance while being taught valuable life skills. Visitors to the booth were reminded that Bold Eagle is
not about recruiting for the military, but for opening doors. Graduates could certainly pursue a career in the Armed Forces, but if not, they would still come away with the character building experiences and mental/physical discipline provided by the program. Along with dream-building, Oteenow arranged for a drumming performance, a ceremonial prayer, a keynote address by Lyle Donald from their board of directors and Executive Director Roberta Bearhead. Presentations were provided by their professional partners High Velocity Heavy Equipment Training College, Donovan’s Driver Education Ltd. and Tradewinds to Success. After it was all over, visitors to the Oteenow Career Fair filed out of the Northlands Expo Centre; the resumes that once filled their hands were now replaced with brochures and catalogues. For job-seekers, the day’s activities may have ended, but through the ongoing efforts of Oteenow and their industry partnerships the futures awaiting them just around the corner now appeared more bright and limitless.
October, 2017
Alberta Native News
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The 2017 BBMA Founders, organizers and sash recipients
BBMA gala honours deserving Metis students planner, Theresa Majeran, who organized a wonderful photographic tribute to celebrate Herb’s life, said the opportunities presented to awards recipients come via “a “unique one-of-a kind initiative, a program provided by the foresight and wisdom of the BBMA Founders and the ongoing partnership they share with the Edmonton Community Foundation.” The evening got underway when co-emcees Fred Keating and Lisa Squires performed a short comedy routine before retreating to their individual microphones. Squires, a 2006 BBMA Alumni, welcomed the Elders, founders, board members, RCMP, Edmonton Community Foundation, government and Métis leaders, the awards students and the 70 soon-to-be Métis Sash recipients. Father Jim Holland, currently on a one-year sabbatical, provided a few jokes, an opening prayer, and on a sadder note told the gathering that former Senator Thelma Chalifoux had passed away just a day earlier. Before BBMA chairperson Kathryn Brosseau offered her welcoming comments, well-known local singer, Sarah Wolfe delighted the gathering by singing both the
Canadian and Métis anthems. The audience fell silent watching a moving video tribute to the late Herb Belcourt, before breaking into a hearty round of applause to celebrate and honour their long-time friend. Kathryn Brosseau welcomed Elder Betty Letendre, Edmonton Mayor Don Iveson, Edmonton Centre MP Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Indigenous Affairs Richard Feehan and Métis Nation of Alberta President Audrey Poitras. She explained that unique to the celebration, for the first time, the evening’s entertainment would be provided by BBMA students. She added, “This past year we’ve received the most applications in our history. Over 450 applications were received from students; we were able to approve 162 students with about $600,000 in awards. Our grand total over the past 16 years amounts to more than $6.7 million in awards to over 1,100 students.” Brosseau credited the donors and sponsors for the success of the program, noting that “the donors grow our endowment fund, which enables us to fund more students with higher awards, and the sponsors provide the funding for this event, which allows us to bring students from across Alberta to Edmonton to receive their Métis sash and meet their Métis family.” BBMA Panel member, Barry Belcourt spoke to the gathering about co-founder Herb Belcourt, the work he did over the years and his passion to see every Métis Continued on page 8
beautiful wood carving to the school, was also presented with a beautiful Raven Blanket for his contributions to the academy and to the community. The Woodcarver’s Association has also utilized the schools wood-working shop in the past. To learn more about this fascinating carver visit groeschelwoodcarving,ca. After a prayer and a few closing words from Elder Whiskeyjack, the tables emptied in orderly fashion as the line-up made its way down the hall to a buffet of scrumptious foods that included traditional beef stew, fresh bannock, buns, salads, soup, dessert and all the
trimmings. Amiskwaciy is an Edmonton Public School program of choice that provides solid academic programming within an Aboriginal context. The school, which is open to students of all backgrounds and cultures, honours the Aboriginal community and reflects its cultures, values, ancestral knowledge and traditions in achieving excellence in education. In doing so it provides, with the help of school and community Elders, a meaningful and balanced curriculum, bringing together the uniqueness of Aboriginal cultures, knowledge and languages in a positive and quality educational setting.
By John Copley On September 23, 2017 the Belcourt Brosseau Métis Awards (BBMA) initiative celebrated yet another milestone and for the 16th consecutive year honoured and celebrated deserving Métis students whose hard work and determination are enabling them to succeed. This year 165 students, who were cheered on by over 450 guests, sponsors, partners and family members, were called oneby-one to the podium to receive an award that will allow them to continue pursuing their educational and tradesrelated goals. BBMA awards range in size from $2,000 to $10,000 and are used to pay for the recipient’s education. The 2017 award evening took on a different tone this year with the recent passing of Dr. Herb Belcourt, a long time Métis entrepreneur and philanthropist who, along with Georges R. Brosseau, Q.C. and cousin Orval Belcourt, founded the awards program in 2001 to support the educational dreams of Métis youth and mature students in Alberta. Since its inception nearly 1,600 awards have been provided to help Métis people achieve an opportunity to complete their varied educational goals. Communication Director and BBMA awards night
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Help” that they donated to the school. The stencil-based print, now displayed in one of the academy’s cultural rooms, was created by Mabel Nigiyok, an accomplished Inuit artist and printmaker from Cook River, NWT. The print depicts a man being seized by a large eagle as he pleads with the Shamans below for help. Coloured in reds, browns, blues and yellows, “Asking for Help” is a limitededition print created in 1994. Local carver Werner Groeschel, who donated a
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Alberta Native News
October, 2017
NorQuest opens Singhmar Centre for Learning By John Copley The main floor atrium and the balconies of the four floors above the newly expanded NorQuest College in downtown Edmonton was a busy place on October 4, 2017 as nearly one thousand students, staff, special guests and community well-wishers gathered to celebrate the official opening of the revitalized facility. The first expansion of the college in nearly five decades brought gasps of awe, smiles of satisfaction and glowing comments from those who attended the event and made their way from the bottom to the top floor, munching on some special treats and listening to sounds of the music reverberating from the drums, accordion, guitars and sitars being played by Booming Tree Taiko, Sangea African Drumming and later from Indigenous dancers and the popular drum group Nehiyawak (The People), led by Lloyd Cardinal. “We're thrilled that NorQuest College's new campus addition, the Singhmar Centre for Learning, is now open,” declared college President and CEO, Dr. Jodi Abbott. “We are so very pleased to see so many people come out to help us celebrate this momentous occasion. To see so many enthusiastic supporters attend the official opening is wonderful for the college - a testament to the community we live in and a strong message that Edmontonians support the college and the work we do. The feedback has been fantastic; there’s been overwhelming support for the college and today many visitors told me that they were blown away by the building infrastructure.” The 22,500 square metre building is connected to Heritage Tower (formerly the North Tower), now under construction (opening scheduled for 2018). The new facility faces Capital Boulevard and is flanked by 103 Avenue and 107 Street. When completed, the new tower will house classrooms, labs, meeting places, food services, a daycare, a brand new and much larger library and more. The Singhmar Centre for Learning is planned to be LEED Silver certified. It features labs, many student spaces, a new library and bookstore, Centre for Growth and Harmony, and an Indigenous student centre that will
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Apply today 780.644.6000 norquest.ca
be ventilated to allow for the use of sage and sweetgrass during smudging and other cultural ceremonies. Natural sunlight and the beautiful art created for the Mayor Iveson (l) and MLA David Shepherd (r) are joined by Alan Skoreyko, Dr. Jodi project by Kainai artist Abbott, Prem and Saroj Singhmar as grandaughter Sophia cuts the ribbon to open Kalum Teke Dan will add a the new learning centre. welcoming touch to the new Centre for Learning, which will be connected to the in unison to “make the college an essential piece” of the puzzle as the city moves ahead into the future. existing South Learning Centre. “I’m very grateful to have had the opportunity over the The building was named for Drs. Prem and Saroj last ten years to learn about the extraordinary work, the Singhmar, who contributed $2.5-million to the project. undertaking that this college stands for transformational The Government of Alberta has committed a $170 million every day for the thousands of post-secondary learners in grant for the $192 million project. Additional funding will our city. My wife, Sarah, and I are both huge fans of the be raised by NorQuest College through Maximizing this college has accomplished over the years.” work Opportunities: The NorQuest Campaign. Alberta’s Minister of Advanced Education Marlin About 60 percent of the college’s student body are nonSchmidt spoke about the importance of the college’s Canadian born learners; to enhance the opportunity for “proud history” and the work it has accomplished “for students studying English as a second language, the new more than 50 years, helping students from all cultures and library, among many other things, will house a collection of life succeed” in their quest for a better education walks of children’s books so that students and their children can and future. learn together. The official opening of the Singhmar Centre for “Creator, I ask that you bless each and every one of us was brought to a close by Indigenous dancers Learning and all the different cultures we represent here today at this and the Nehiyawak Drum Group and a ribbon cutting great college,” said Elder Delores Cardinal during her ceremony by Prem and Saroj Singhmar’s granddaughter, opening prayer. “Give us unity, understanding and sharing. Sophia. I give thanks that I, and my people, are a part of this NorQuest College is the Edmonton region’s only college experience as we continue to grow and learn here community college serving 15,850 students annually at NorQuest.” throughout the province in full-time, part-time, distance Numerous dignitaries, former board chairs, college learning, and regional programs. NorQuest College presidents, administrators, city councillors and helps learners with diverse educational backgrounds government representatives joined in the celebration, complete or further their studies through foundational and including Edmonton Mayor Don Iveson and Alberta’s continuing education programs. The college’s postMinister of Advanced Education, Marlin Schmidt. secondary diploma and certificate programs offer career Mayor Iveson spoke about the importance of innovation paths in health, community studies, and business. and technology and lauded the efforts and work of the About 92 per cent of NorQuest graduates are employed planners, builders and philanthropists who’d joined hands within the first few months after graduation. and hearts as they worked
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October, 2017
Alberta Native News
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iHuman mural promotes a healthy environment By John Copley There’s a new face in the capital city and it’s called “Water is Life.” It’s bright, bold and beautiful and tells many stories but the message it really delivers is both simple and important: start protecting the environment we live in and be especially concerned about our water supply. That’s the message being delivered by the new and brightly coloured community-driven mural that was painted on the large east-facing wall of the iHuman Youth Society, located in Edmonton’s inner city (9635-102A Ave). “The project took place on the September 810 weekend,” explained iHuman Authenticity Director Keith Callihoo, who along with renowned Canadian artist and project facilitator, Isaac Murdoch, and dozens of local supporters spent the weekend creating a cultural mosaic designed to bring awareness to Edmontonians about the importance of water in our everyday lives. “During the weekend event about 300 people joined us at the wall; more than 50 added their unique artistic touch to the mural. The participation we saw from local youth was especially rewarding. They really had fun telling their stories and adding their artwork to the mural,” noted Callihoo. “The mural was created as an inspiration and a learning tool that promotes the protection of water, a commodity that every living creature on earth needs to survive.” The project, an initiative inspired by Murdoch and acclaimed artist and activist Christi Belcourt, was designed to help the two artists get their message out to the public. That message, noted Murdoch “is simply to create awareness that water is important to us all and as such we are encouraging every Canadian to stand up and do something positive for the environment. If we can find the strength and resolve to work together for the betterment of the planet, then we have taken a step forward in helping to ensure that humankind will be able to survive well into the future. You cannot overstate the importance of a healthy environment and that begins by protecting our water. To emphasize that importance, we became involved in creating two murals on the same weekend, one in Edmonton and the other in Ottawa.” Callihoo lauded the efforts of community members who came out to help paint the new mural and credited local Elders for coming out to tell their stories and add their images. “One Dene Elder participated in story-telling and then added syllabics to the mural,” he explained. “If you come by and see the wall you’ll note that the mural includes such things as a woodpecker, a symbol of strength and humility; a white buffalo to bring awareness to the plight of missing and murdered Indigenous women and a beaver for resilience and creativity.” There’s also a Water Walker, a Thunderbird Woman, a sturgeon and a large and radiant rainbow erupting from the inside of a copper kettle, various plants, bright red strawberries, bubbles with Indigenous words printed inside and colourful hearts created by children participating in the weekend project. “There is a growing movement around the world when it comes to protecting our environment and in particular, the world’s water resources,” noted Murdoch. “This is just a small part of that movement but I’d like to encourage all of your readers and every person who understands what we are trying to accomplish to get out and do something positive for the environment. That can be something as simple as walking in the woods, hosting a ceremony, getting together with others for a water walk - even organizing another mural. If we unite and work together, we can accomplish almost anything and there is nothing on this earth that is more important that the air we breathe
and the water we drink.” iHuman’s reputation speaks for itself; they’ve won many different awards over the past two decades for their work with inner city youth. Founded in 1997, the iHuman Youth Society is a nonprofit organization that engages Edmonton’s vulnerable and otherwise street involved youth. The organization fosters personal development and reconnection to the community via social support, engagement and outreach programs involving crisis Tandem murals were painted by community members in Ottawa (top) and intervention, arts mentorship and Edmonton (bottom) celebrating "Water is Life" facilitated by artists / life skills development. activists Isaac Murdoch and Christi Belcourt. (Photos supplied) “When we reached out to our contacts in Edmonton,” explained couldn’t have turned out any better. The folks at iHuman Murdoch, “the iHuman name kept coming up. Christi and are an awesome bunch and they’ve been very supportive I wanted to do a mural in Edmonton’s capital to twin-up from the outset; we’ve made a lot of new friends in the with the one we’d organized in the nation’s capital and Continued on page 11 were looking for a suitable place to create the piece. It
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Alberta Native News
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students reach out to achieve their goals. “Herb’s positive attitude and get-to-it spirit has impacted the lives of thousands of people throughout Alberta and across Canada,” he noted. “Herb was a son, a brother, a husband, a father, a grandfather, a great grandfather, a friend and a mentor and a shoulder to lean on. He was an individual who was always on a mission - give him a challenge and he usually exceeded beyond expectations. As we remember him today, I thank all of you for being here.” MP for Edmonton Centre Randy Boissonnault, drew a loud round of applause when he told the gathering that not only did Prime Minister Trudeau “speak on the world stage about the failings of our country, in particular to Indigenous peoples,” he also reiterated on that world stage “Canada’s pledge to continue to commit to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People and to advance it through reconciliation. Just today the RCMP have agreed to return certain artifacts once belonging to or related to Métis people and Louis Riel. The Government of Canada realizes the importance of these artifacts to Métis people and they are being returned in the spirit of reconciliation, to the Métis National Council.” The Edmonton Community Foundation has been a partner with the BBMA for 15 years by acting as a bridge between donors’ wishes and the needs of charities in the greater Edmonton area. By pooling contributions from individuals and organizations, ECF creates permanent endowment funds that provide long-term support for a wide range of local charitable organizations and causes, while helping donors maximize the impact of their charitable giving. To date the Foundation has allocated more than $190 million to enhance and strengthen the community. Instead of offering his own words, ECF CEO Martin Garber-Conrad told the gathering that he’d like to read those of a former BBMA recipient, Tyler Masters. “Dear Belcourt Brosseau Awards Panel,” began GarberConrad, “I came from an area of the province where Métis culture is not something that is celebrated or even acknowledged. I knew I was Métis but didn’t really know what that meant. There weren’t many opportunities to learn about my culture - then, one day about three years
October, 2017
ago my high school counsellor gave me a link to the BBMA and invited me to apply. “When I got the email (that I’d qualified) I cried because it meant that I would be able to attend the University of Calgary,” the letter continued. “This award has opened doors for me and its taught me so much about what it means Elder Betty Letendre and John Brosseau to be Métis. When I received the award, it was one of my proudest moments; it meant that I was part of a community, a family. This award and the people I met at the ceremony inspired me to not only become involved in in the Métis community in Calgary, but it also helped me to reevaluate my career Sarah Wolfe Ambrose Cardinal Kathryn Brosseau goals.” “Native Studies was my minor, but I’d like to try for more,” the letter continued. “I Métis Nation shares with all Canadians as a uniquely want to make Alberta and Canada a better place for Canadian people.” Iveson lauded the work and accomplishments of the Indigenous people. I plan to focus on reconciliation and BBMA founders and thanked them for the positive things healing relationships between the Indigenous peoples and they’ve done to make both Edmonton and Canada a better the government. All this because of this award - and I to be. He congratulated the awards recipients “for place thank you for considering me for a third time.” seeing fit to invest in your own betterment through Martin-Garber then introduced Edmonton Mayor Don education. One of the Elders I sit with often speaks about Iveson to the podium. Mayor Iveson spoke to the being the ‘new buffalo’ - it is the thing that will education gathering, and “respectfully acknowledged that we are sustain you throughout your life.” gathered here on Treaty 6 Territory and one of the great Elder Betty Letendre and Dr. John Brosseau teamed up homelands of the Métis people.” this year, smiling proudly as they draped the colourful He also spoke about the importance of family and said Métis sashes over the shoulders of the 70 Sash Recipients the BBMA event, which brings family together, reminded who were honoured this year. him of similar values in his own extended family. Over the course of the evening several alumni rose to “Our family,” he noted, “is blended as well and with that the podium to speak about what the awards meant to them comes a lot of opportunity but also a lot of as they pursued their educational endeavours. The misunderstanding. You have a lot more experience than I speakers included first year sash recipient, Loagn do, about 200 years more, but with it comes a kinship - our Lukinuk, who is attending his first year at MacEwan family is a blend of two races and two very different University and enrolled in the Bachelor of Commerce traditions and that’s a very special gift and it’s a gift the program; alumni Matt Hiltermann, a Socio-Cultural Anthropology graduate (University of Calgary) who spoke about the history and the significance of the Métis Sash; continuing student Chelsea Boucher, a first-year law student attending the University of Victoria and others. “Some generous donors,” noted Theresa Majeran, “have established funds within the BBMA Endowment Fund, each of which supports BBMA recipients within the criteria defined by the donors. The BBMA Founders and the ECF appreciate their involvement and generosity.” These donors include: Syncrude Canada Ltd. (for students from the Wood Buffalo region, with a preference for those entering a pre-technology program); Enbridge Pipelines Inc. (for students from Edmonton, East Central Alberta, or Northeast Alberta who are studying in a technology field, Engineering, or Law (particularly Aboriginal Law) and Shell Canada Limited (for students who are studying in fields of Engineering, Geo Science, Commerce, Environment, Industry Related Trades, or Power Engineering. Want to know more about the BBMA program? Contact Theresa Majeran; she’s available to visit your community, organization or school to talk about the awards and welcomes inquiries about contributions from companies and individuals who would like to get involved in helping to improve the lives and the opportunities of Métis students. You can contact her at 780-9775515 or communications@bbma.ca.
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“No Government Grants” Publication Mail Agreement No. 40050628 Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: Circulation Department: Suite A, 10632 124 Street NW Edmonton, Alberta T5N 1S3 E-mail: nativenews@telus.net Tel: (780) 421-7966 Fax: (780) 424-3951
Volume 34, Number 10, October 2017 ISSN #08294135 www.albertanativenews.com EDITOR: Deborah Shatz ADVERTISING: Sales 780-421-7966 Alberta Native News is published monthly for distribution to Native Bands and Metis Settlements across Alberta, Saskatchewan, British Columbia and Northwest Territories. All rights reserved. No part of this newspaper may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. The opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the Editor. Alberta Native News is published by 320754 Alberta Ltd. For change of address, please send both old and new addresses. We welcome your stories, pictures, artwork and opinions. Please send anything you would like to have published to our office.
Indigenous Women’s Justice Forum tackles critical issues By Regan Treewater The Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal the families of the missing were not entitled to victim Women proudly hosted the Indigenous Women’s Justice services under current parameters – the reason being, that Forum at the Edmonton Inn and Conference Centre on if a person is simply missing, there is no evidence of a October 3rd and 4th. The event, chaired by IAAW CEO crime. Makokis identified this as an issue that would need Rachelle Venne, was focused on identifying critical to be urgently re-evaluated. Many of the smaller changes that are needed in the justice system for improved discussion groups shared this concern as well. outcomes for Indigenous women. Delegates from across Makokis’ presentation also drew attention to the Alberta, parts of British Columbia and Saskatchewan, strategic placement of Victim Services offices all shared in their concern for the disproportionate near or next to RCMP stations. This number of Indigenous women involved with the justice particular point was discussed at length and system. They also shared their passion for social also clarified. It was explained that their close justice and their commitment to supporting proximity in no way indicates that the two are equality for Indigenous women. The group connected, only that Victim Services is better was joined by Minister of Service Alberta able to provide support to those in need and Status of Women, Stephanie McLean when situated close to law enforcement. for an impactful keynote address. Makokis cast a harsh light on elements of The forum was designed to be a the social justice system that continue to collaborative synthesizing of ideas. be ineffective while leaving her Following detailed presentations, those in audience with an empowered attendance were divided into small determination for improvement. discussion groups where Following Makokis’ presentation, pressing issues related to discussion groups tackled questions Indigenous women’s like: what measures can be taken to rights could be discussed make the system more effective, or openly. Groups were what supports are not offered at the given prompts and members moment that could significantly encouraged to share their own benefit victims and their personal and professional families? experiences in order to provide deeper Debate and the exchange of insight into issues such as: equal ideas erupted from each corner of treatment within the justice the room as Indigenous Justice system, social and family Forum delegates sprang into action – assistance and victim support. after all, the purpose of the event was The forum was fortunate to to ultimately compile an advisory be joined by Tracey document. Everyone brought their Makokis, the Manager of expertise as social workers, legal Indigenous Programs, Victim advocates and community Services for the Alberta engagement coordinators to the Ministry of Justice and Solicitor table. While most expressed General. Makokis’ presentation frustration with the system as it centred on creating better currently stands, all were community understanding for the enthusiastic about making positive post-crime victim services offered in contributions to its betterment. This Alberta. She explained that a vast majority of people optimism resulted in some suggestions continue to be unclear as to how Victim Services operates. for simple changes that could be easily To clarify some of these points, she screened a brief accommodated, as well as more extensive reforms that documentary highlighting a still imperfect system’s would only be possible on a grand scale. struggle to make a positive impact for the victims of, and The event wrapped up slowly with business cards and those affected by violent crime. other contact information being shared among the The search for justice for the missing and murdered delegates. The Indigenous Women’s Justice Forum had women of our First Nations and Indigenous communities very clearly connected the right people, fostered the featured prominently during the forum. Makokis sharing of knowledge to generate solutions, and astonished many in attendance when she explained that collectively worked towards a common good. As those who were in attendance bring these new ideas back to their organizations and communities, The Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women will continue its mission of empowering women for social change. For more information visit iaaw.ca.
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Elders' Forums
cont. from p 3
Forum had attended residential schools; many others had family members who attended. At least 4,200 children and as many as 6,000 died in residential schools while many others experienced sexual, physical, and emotional abuse. Reconciliation is a hard word to swallow, but important. The impact of residential schools is felt throughout First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities across Canada. The lack of access to services for our health outcomes, the over-representation in the criminal justice system, the over-representation of children in care, intergenerational trauma, cultural loss and language loss all have a tremendous impact on our people. “More than 7,000 stories were shared with the Commission (TRC). I had the opportunity to sit in on some of those and it was sad and difficult to witness. Our Elders, our knowledge keepers have to step up and tell those stories. They did that again today and the anguish continues, but we do this in the kindest way and from the bottom of our hearts and with the intent to begin healing ourselves, as individuals and as Nations.” Elders participating in the Reconciliation Forum noted said they’d like to see all levels of government, Indigenous communities and all Canadians work together to implement the 94 recommendations set out by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. “We must acknowledge and push government at all levels to improve outcomes in programs. Reconciliation requires action to counter the negative impact of residential schools and work towards closing the gaps that exist in programs and policies. Elders and survivors have called for changes to education, language, culture, health, spirituality and justice. As our Elders pass away we lose connection to our languages and cultures; the residential schools stopped our Elders from passing their knowledge on to future generations. When an Indigenous language dies, there are negative consequences. Our Elders are once again calling on government to begin the immediate implementation of programs and policies to help our people heal from residential schools.” Panelists presenting the Forum on Climate Change included Chuck Hume (First Nation), Cliff Supernault (Métis) and Lillian Elias (Inuit) and keynote speaker Kevin Hart, Manitoba Regional Chief for the Assembly of First Nations (AFN).
“Climate change is real,” assured Chief Hart, “and it is a problem that gives all great concern.” Chief Hart called the room full of Elders “my experts on climate change, my knowledge keepers you are the experts on climate change because you have lived through it.” One of the first things the Elders commented on AFN MB Regional Chief was the fact that Kevin Hart international governments sit at the table and talk about the Indigenous peoples’ platform on climate change, but they have no Aboriginal people at the table, something the Chief said “is just not right." He told the gathering that while on an international mission last year with Elder Francois The closing ceremony at Poulet, world leaders sat Elders. and talked about the Indigenous platform on climate change “and yet they have never consulted our Elders, our experts, our hunters and trappers and gatherers of food and medicine. When I told elder Poulet that it wasn’t right for them to sit and talk about us when we were not at the table, he looked at me and said, ‘you are the Chief - lead the way.’ “We stood up and took the banner that said Canada on it and went and sat at that table and said, “if you want to talk about climate change and Indigenous people then we're here to talk about it. I told them the climate change has a very significant effect on us yet we’ve had the least input in the climate change conversation.” Chief Hart noted that “climate change is a real problem in our communities and we know that it is a real and serious problem yet some world leaders are still in denial and don’t believe it is a real issue of concern. “Environmental change is impacting our lives and our traditional uses of the land; this needs to be addressed immediately because we are losing our connection
Treaty 6 Grand Chief Wilton Littlechild
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Alexis Nakota Chief Tony Alexis
the conclusion of a successful National Gathering of
to the land. There is hope, however, because I see many of our people returning to the land and they are taking their children and grandchildren with them to see the land we trapped on, hunted on, fished on and picked berries and medicines from. Many of our lakes and rivers are polluted and can no longer be fished; the water is no longer drinkable and the crops of wild berries are disappearing. Our way of life is being taken away because we are not involved, we are not consulted or included when it comes to discussion on climate change. There will come a day when our non-Native brothers and sisters will come back to us to save Armageddon. It is time for our governments to begin listening to us and to begin respecting our responsibilities as stewards and keepers of this land.” In our November issue readers will learn what the moderators had to say on the remaining three Elder’s Forums held during the NGE event. This will include remarks from Métis Elder Tom Ghostkeeper on The Revitalization of Language and Culture; Tanya Kappo on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and Marilyn Buffalo on Indigenous Health.
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Jane Ash Poitras awarded the Order of Canada By Clint Buehler "Before and After" by Jane Ash Poitras is the striking University in New York City, graduating in 1985 with an image on the cover of this month’s Alberta Native News. MFA in painting and sculpture. She returned to Edmonton just in time to become a Poitras exemplifies the values of the Order of Canada: “They desire a better country.” Her recent appointment to significant influence in the beginnings of the development that honour is just the latest of her many awards that of a new visual vocabulary for First Nations perspectives include the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in contemporary art. Her unique style combines postmodern artmaking and honourary doctorates from the University of Calgary techniques--like collage and found objects--with a deep and the University of Alberta. Those honours are recognition of her influence and commitment to the politics and issues common to Indigenous peoples. acclaim internationally as an artist and lecturer. “I think that the role of the artist today is to become free, Born to the Mikisew Cree First Nation in Fort Chipewyan, she was orphaned at an early age when her to transcend. Then they can transform, enlighten and mother died of tuberculosis and was fostered by an elderly become empowered,” Poitras told New Trail, the German lady - a devout Catholic. She was not aware of magazine of the University of Alberta Alumni her community and her culture until she was befriended by Association. “Residential schools were designed to assimilate another First Nation student in university. Reconnecting with her Indigenous roots, she was Indigenous peoples, taking them from their families and enthusiastically welcomed “home” by her relatives and denying their language and culture. They were treated not community. Her exploration of Indigenous history and as equals, but as secondary citizens trained to be kitchen culture, and the issues that impact their lives, have helpers and farm workers. “This strategy rejected the rich history, knowledge and informed and inspired her life and her art ever since. Despite a life-long interest in art, she first gained a wisdom they had to offer. “It is satisfying that their valuable contributions, which science degree in microbiology but, dissatisfied with that choice, she soon switched paths, earning a BFA in were denied by systematic assimilation are now at the printmaking from the University of Alberta. Impressed by forefront of many scientific fields. Indigenous people are her talent, her instructors Liz Ingram (also a recent Order now taking leading roles in the evolution of ethnobotany, of Canada recipient), Lyndal Osborne and Walter Jule environmentalism and the inclusion of traditional healing encouraged her to pursue a post graduate degree. in modern medicine, among others.” Her work has been featured in numerous solo and group Accepted by several top universities, she chose Columbia
iHuman mural
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process. The participation in the mural was phenomenal; we had a lot of different cultures come out and help us and that’s just more proof that the world needs people to step up and get the word out. If we don’t start planning for a healthier environment, our time on this planet is limited.” iHuman’s mission, explained Executive Director Catherine Broomfield in an earlier interview, “is to reconnect youth into the community by developing skills, self-esteem and a sense of worth and ability through caring, creative and authentic programming.”
The organization engages with youth (aged 12-24) from every demographic and socio-economic group throughout the Edmonton region. The majority of the youth they work with are Aboriginal youth, many of whom are facing issues such as poverty, homelessness, addictions, mental health issues and gang affiliation. Broomfield said that too often the young people who make their way to iHuman feel a lack of self-worth. They often think they have nothing to hope for, but that’s not the case, she emphasized. At iHuman,” she explained, “we discover that this is simply not true. We have discovered many highly talented
Jane Ash Poitras was recently awarded the Order of Canada for her outstanding achievements and contributions to Canada.
exhibitions internationally and is included in many prestigious private, public and corporate collections. She was a sessional lecturer in the U of A’s Faculty of Native Studies for more than 20 years and has lectured extensively internationally, including Paris, Amsterdam, Mexico City and Washington, DC at the invitation of the Canadian government, and at numerous conferences, universities and public galleries across Canada and the United States. Jane Ash Poitras is represented in Edmonton by the Bearclaw Gallery, in Banff by the Canada House Gallery, in Toronto by the Kinsman-Robertson Galleries and in Ottawa by Galerie d’Art Vincent. individuals demonstrating amazing characteristics like creativity, loyalty, ingenuity, perseverance, leadership, ambition and above all else, resilience. Our mandate is to help these youth overcome disparity; we encourage them and support them to develop their talents, confidence, selfworth and ultimately their capacity to heal from trauma. Then, they can realize their own potential to contribute to the community.” For more information visit iHumanyouthsociety.org
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