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NATIONAL JUNE 21, 2015 ABORIGINAL DAY Regina celebrates National Aboriginal Day 2015 By Jonathan hamelin For Postmedia sK sPecial ProJects nce again this year, Regina residents will have the chance to enjoy National Aboriginal Day (NAD) festivities in their home city. NAD is on June 21, and it’s a day for all Canadians to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis people, the three groups recognized as Aboriginal people in the Canadian Constitution. The history of NAD can be traced back to 1982, when the National Indian Brotherhood (now the Assembly of First Nations) called for the creation of National Aboriginal Solidarity Day. In 1995, the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples recommended the designation of a National First Peoples Day. That same year, the Sacred Assembly, a national conference of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people chaired by Elijah Harper, called for a national holiday to celebrate the contributions of Aboriginal peoples. In 1996, Governor General of Canada Roméo LeBlanc announced NAD following consultations with various Aboriginal groups. While NAD is on June 21, there are a number of events taking place Friday in Regina.
O
The Circle Project Association will be holding its annual celebration today from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Grassick Playground in Regina. The Circle Project Association provides programs based on the Aboriginal vision of wholeness, balance and healing, and promotes positive self-development through education, cultural awareness, family and community. “This day gives us the opportunity to showcase the beauty of the culture and get together as a community to celebrate,” said Circle Project Association executive director Ann Perry, who added that the event is free and is open to the public. “The community gathers in a safe, drugand alcohol-free environment. The culture is celebrated by both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people, some of whom haven’t had a lot of exposure to the culture. This provides them with an opportunity to learn.” The event’s grand entry is at 3 p.m. An Elder will start the event with a prayer, while one of the Circle Project staff members will sing “O Canada” in her native language. Once the event opens, a number of children’s activities will be available, including face painting, Dino Bouncer activities and an interactive cultural area. Students from Kitchener Community School in Regina will be performing the Red River Jig, a traditional dance of the Métis, while other community groups will be bringing dancers.
A barbecue begins at 5 p.m. While people are savouring their meal, they can enjoy performances by Brian Sklar and the TexPistols (Canada’s primo Western Swing and ’60s-style Nashville band) and White Bear First Nations’ Teagan Littlechief (an international recording artist). A traditional round dance will end the night’s festivities. Perry said the event averages 700 visitors a year. “The community’s response has been exceptional,” Perry said. “The event doesn’t start until 3 p.m., but throughout the whole morning we have neighbours stopping by asking when the event starts. Many people come here year after year with their families.” Other National Aboriginal Day events in Regina include: • Wascana Centre, June 19, all day: NAD activities begin at 9 a.m. in the northwest corner of Wascana Centre. The grand entry is at 10 a.m. There will be various forms of traditional entertainment, including singing, drumming, dancing, fiddling, children’s activities and more. • Royal Saskatchewan Museum, June 21, 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.: The public is welcome to celebrate NAD and Saskatchewan Archaeology Month with drop-in family activities such as traditional toys and games, pottery making and archaeology dig boxes.
Photo: CirCle ProjeCt AssoCiAtion
Hundreds of people will enjoy National Aboriginal Day celebrations presented by the Circle Project Association today from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Grassick Park. Regina Aboriginal Day celebrations are also underway throughout the day in Wascana Park.
RAPA holds strong ties to National Aboriginal History Month By Jonathan hamelin For Postmedia sK sPecial ProJects
E
very June, Canadians celebrate National Aboriginal History Month, recognizing the historic contributions of Aboriginal peoples to the development of Canada as well as the strength of present day Aboriginal communities and their promise for the future. And it’s all thanks to the Regina Aboriginal Professionals’ Association (RAPA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of Regina's Aboriginal community. In 2007, RAPA proclaimed the month of June as Aboriginal History Month and began a grassroots campaign to have the month officially recognized and proclaimed by all three levels of government: municipal, provincial and federal. That same year, the City of Regina provided a local proclamation and the Government of Saskatchewan also made a formal declaration to support the cause. Also in 2007, Member of Parliament Jean Crowder — Nanaimo-Cowichan put forth a motion in the House of Commons to have June officially designated as Aboriginal History Month throughout Canada. On June 4, 2009, the House of Commons official accepted the motion. “We believe that we need to keep our his-
Photo: rAPA
Aboriginal History Month is now observed every June, the result of a grassroots campaign originated by the Regina Aboriginal Professionals’ Association (RAPA). The Association has organized numerous events throughout the month that celebrate the history and culture of First Nations people.
tory alive,” said RAPA president Nicole Akan. “We set out to achieve a number of objectives during the month: building cross-crosscultural relationships in our communities; encouraging a sense of pride and determination to share Aboriginal stories; developing positive partnerships with Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal groups; and creating an environment for youth to learn the traditional knowledge from our Elders.” RAPA helps put together a number of events and promotions during June. RAPA partnered with the First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv) Students’ Association
and the FNUniv Pow Wow committee to play host to the First Nations Pavilion at this year’s Mosaic, which was held in early June. From 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Friday, RAPA is partnering with the City of Regina’s Aboriginal City Employees group to put on an Aboriginal Talent Showcase in Victoria Park. On June 27, RAPA is hosting its third annual one-day Archery and Lacrosse Camp at FNUniv. The day starts with a prayer led by an Elder and there is valuable knowledge passed along to youth. “Our events are always a great success and the community really enjoys them,” said
Akan, who noted that every event is open to the public. The prospect of celebrating the history of Aboriginal peoples was the factor that drew Akan to RAPA in the first place. She has spent three years on the association’s board of directors and became the president in April 2015. “I feel very fortunate to be in this role and to be able to learn more about my culture. I think that’s the most rewarding thing for me,” said Akan. “I grew up in Regina and never was surrounded by my culture. My family was never traditional, and I know that’s
true for a lot of Aboriginal people in the city. We’ve lost some of our culture, but through events like these — when we talk about the history — it’s a nice way to educate people.” Beyond Aboriginal History Month, Akan said RAPA focuses on advancing success within the First Nations community. Over 16 years, she said RAPA has partnered with many Aboriginal organizations in the community and set up networking opportunities. For example, RAPA publishes a Proud Generation Role Model calendar, which showcases six Aboriginal youth, along with six Aboriginal professionals. Akan said the calendar focuses on the accomplishments of the community and provides youth with role models to look up to. Every student featured on the calendar also receives a small scholarship to help advance their education. “Our goal is to continue fostering working relationships with community organizations, members and corporate entities to ensure the Regina Aboriginal Professionals’ Association can effectively provide programs and events for all ethnicities,” said RAPA Communications Lead Brad Bellegarde. For more information on RAPA, visit www.rapanetwork.ca. To volunteer for an Aboriginal History Month event, email rapanetwork@gmail.com.
These stories were produced by Leader-Post Special Projects to promote awareness of this topic for commercial purposes. The Leader-Post editorial department had no involvement in the creation of this content.
The Regina Catholic School Division Celebrates
National Aboriginal Day 2015!
Feels like a fit
The Regina Catholic School Division proudly joins everyone across Canada in celebrating National Aboriginal Day, a special day for honouring the unique heritages, cultures, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people in Canada.
Be comfortable with diversity At FCC, we’ve built a culture where you can be yourself. You’re an individual and it takes strong individuals to make a strong team. So, be who you are and feel at home when you go to work. We’re proud to celebrate June 21 as National Aboriginal Day. fcc.ca/Diversity
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Fri d ay, Ju n e 1 9 , 2 0 1 5
Regina Public Library helps public become well-read on Aboriginal culture
Our commitment to
Indigenization and sustainability
PHOTO: REGINA PUBLIC LIBRARY
We are proud to celebrate and support Aboriginal business every day. Join us.
AWARD WINNING PUBLIC GALLERY
BY JONATHAN HAMELIN FOR POSTMEDIA SK SPECIAL PROJECTS
I
www.womenentrepreneurs.sk.ca
Saskatoon: 306-477-7173 Regina: 306-359-9732
www.allensapp.com REGXS322022_1_1
The Circle Project Assoc. Inc. “Serving the community for over 25 years”
REGXS321982_1_1
ATTENTION: METIS ENTREPRENEURS
On National Aboriginal Day we celebrate the accomplishments and success of Aboriginal people in our community.
We encourage people to help themselves through… • Family Violence Program • Healthy Lifestyles/Relationship Counselling • Personal Development/Stabilization Services • Children’s Centre • Infant and Toddler Centre
Business Loans Program Business Advisory Program Métis Assistance Program
2nd Floor, 1102 8th Avenue, Regina, SK S4R 1C9 Telephone: (306) 347-7515 Fax: (306) 347-7519
www.smedco.ca
Children’s Centre - (306) 569-3988 Infant/Toddler Centre - (306) 949-4911
Suite 101 – 1630 Quebec Avenue Saskatoon, SK S7K 1V7 (306) 477-4350
www.circleproject.ca
“bridging the gaps in our community” REG00214979_1_1
f you visit any of the nine Regina Public Library (RPL) locations around the city, you’ll find many resources to help you become immersed in Aboriginal culture — and not just on the bookshelf. For over 10 years, part of the RPL’s mandate has been to celebrate Aboriginal peoples through extensive literature as well as hands-on programs led by Elders and educated professionals. “Saskatchewan has the second-highest Aboriginal population in Canada. In order for the library to meet the needs of the community, the programs and services should reflect the community it serves,” said RPL Albert Branch Head Wendy Sinclair, who has spent 29 years with the RPL and heads up its Aboriginal programming. “They create cultural awareness, because people from all different backgrounds are participating in these programs.” In 2001, the RPL was part of a Minister’s Advisory Committee on Library Services for Aboriginal People to review the status of library services to First Nations and Métis people. The committee developed 46 recommendations and presented them in a report entitled Information Is For Everyone. In 2003, the Public Libraries Regulations of 1996 were amended to ensure First Nations’ access to public libraries, while the provincial government provided an additional $250,000 in fund-
ing to the base grants for library systems for Aboriginal Library Services. Sinclair noted the funding helped the RPL truly expand its offerings, as purchasing equipment such as sewing machines and ironing boards, had proved to be too expensive in the past. The RPL now offers programs that teach the public how to make traditional ribbon skirts and star blankets, which are thought to result in good dreams and prosperity. It also offers powwow dancing courses and storytelling sessions. The library has brought in an Elder from Northern Saskatchewan to teach birch bark biting (an ancient folk art made by biting down on small pieces of folded birch bark to form intricate designs) and moose hair tufting (a method of producing three-dimensional images by stitching and trimming bundles of selected moose hair onto tanned hide or birch bark). Through a partnership with the Albert Library Committee, the RPL also takes families on a cultural day trip to Wanuskewin Heritage Park every year to learn the stories and lifestyles of the Northern Plains Indians who have gathered at this meeting place for over 6,000 years. This summer, the RPL has a number of cultural events scheduled. On June 27, the Regent Place Branch is offering a Value Shields program, where families with children ages 10 and over can learn about teepee teaching, traditional Aboriginal values and symbols, and then create their own family value shield. The program is led by Brenda Dubois, community devel-
opment coordinator with the Randall Kinship Centre. “Everybody has their own values and, based on their own values they will create their own value shield and put it on display,” said Sinclair. “Every time they see it, it reinforces their values.” On June 18, a traditional First Nations food tasting program was held at the Prince of Wales Branch and will take place again on August 22 at the Regent Place Branch. Sioux chef Dickie Yuzicapi will teach participants about the history and tradition of First Nation food. Samples and refreshments will be served. “He’s a very good chef,” said Sinclair. “I think he can make 10 different kinds of bannock or more.” When it comes to Aboriginal library services, Sinclair said Saskatchewan is “seen as a role model” based on the type of programs the province offers. There are two provincial committees in the province focusing on these services. Sinclair often makes presentations on the subject to national and international libraries. RPL will continue with plans to expand its Aboriginal services and ensure its Aboriginal programming and materials are useful and relevant to the city’s population. “It’s still a topic that’s very much in the forefront,” she said. “We’re always looking at ways to improve library services and build and strengthen our relationships with the Aboriginal community by creating partnerships.”
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Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan
The University of Regina has embraced two areas of emphasis that inform all our decision-making and academic activities. We are committed to making our campus the most Indigenized in Canada and we view our commitment to sustainability as critical to our future success.
CELEBRATE CANADA! (JUNE 21st - JULY U 1st) National Aboriginal Day: June 21st St. Jean Baptiste Day: June 24th Canada’s Multiculturalism Day: June 27th Canada Day: July 1st
JOIN EVENTS IN YOUR COMMUNITY!
“The most successful students are those who wake up the morning with purpose. Successful students know they are going to make their home, community, province and nation stronger.” Cadmus Delorme, Graduate student, Johnson-Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy
From Many Peoples Strength www.mcos.ca
Shauneen Pete Executive Lead, Indigenization, Associate Professor, Faculty of Education
www.uregina.ca REG00214984_1_1
REG00214885_1_1
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Knowledge is beautiful.
When soils are healthy, community investment grows. The Gordon Oakes Redbear Student Centre, under construction on the U of S campus, is an inclusive gathering place for all people, Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal, that celebrates the teachings, traditions and culture of Indigenous peoples while also providing a new home for Aboriginal student services and leadership.
Every year, thanks to the farmers who invest in our soil nutrients, PotashCorp invests a portion of its earnings back into our communities — both local and global. Recent local investments include food banks, PotashCorp Playland, and the annual Wanuskewin Heritage Park Powwow & Celebration. Sure, our nutrients nourish
In other words, when the centre opens later this year we will be better able to support our over 2,000 Aboriginal students, and we will have a new space to come together as a community and learn from one another.
crops. But by promoting understanding and appreciation of indigenous cultures, we also nourish human potential. PotashCorp.com/Nourish
usask.ca REGXS318819_1_1
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C4
Sponsored content
Fr iday, June 1 9 , 20 15
Sponsored content
Leader-Post • leaderpost.com
Fri d ay, Ju n e 1 9 , 2 0 1 5
Regina Public Library helps public become well-read on Aboriginal culture
Our commitment to
Indigenization and sustainability
PHOTO: REGINA PUBLIC LIBRARY
We are proud to celebrate and support Aboriginal business every day. Join us.
AWARD WINNING PUBLIC GALLERY
BY JONATHAN HAMELIN FOR POSTMEDIA SK SPECIAL PROJECTS
I
www.womenentrepreneurs.sk.ca
Saskatoon: 306-477-7173 Regina: 306-359-9732
www.allensapp.com REGXS322022_1_1
The Circle Project Assoc. Inc. “Serving the community for over 25 years”
REGXS321982_1_1
ATTENTION: METIS ENTREPRENEURS
On National Aboriginal Day we celebrate the accomplishments and success of Aboriginal people in our community.
We encourage people to help themselves through… • Family Violence Program • Healthy Lifestyles/Relationship Counselling • Personal Development/Stabilization Services • Children’s Centre • Infant and Toddler Centre
Business Loans Program Business Advisory Program Métis Assistance Program
2nd Floor, 1102 8th Avenue, Regina, SK S4R 1C9 Telephone: (306) 347-7515 Fax: (306) 347-7519
www.smedco.ca
Children’s Centre - (306) 569-3988 Infant/Toddler Centre - (306) 949-4911
Suite 101 – 1630 Quebec Avenue Saskatoon, SK S7K 1V7 (306) 477-4350
www.circleproject.ca
“bridging the gaps in our community” REG00214979_1_1
f you visit any of the nine Regina Public Library (RPL) locations around the city, you’ll find many resources to help you become immersed in Aboriginal culture — and not just on the bookshelf. For over 10 years, part of the RPL’s mandate has been to celebrate Aboriginal peoples through extensive literature as well as hands-on programs led by Elders and educated professionals. “Saskatchewan has the second-highest Aboriginal population in Canada. In order for the library to meet the needs of the community, the programs and services should reflect the community it serves,” said RPL Albert Branch Head Wendy Sinclair, who has spent 29 years with the RPL and heads up its Aboriginal programming. “They create cultural awareness, because people from all different backgrounds are participating in these programs.” In 2001, the RPL was part of a Minister’s Advisory Committee on Library Services for Aboriginal People to review the status of library services to First Nations and Métis people. The committee developed 46 recommendations and presented them in a report entitled Information Is For Everyone. In 2003, the Public Libraries Regulations of 1996 were amended to ensure First Nations’ access to public libraries, while the provincial government provided an additional $250,000 in fund-
ing to the base grants for library systems for Aboriginal Library Services. Sinclair noted the funding helped the RPL truly expand its offerings, as purchasing equipment such as sewing machines and ironing boards, had proved to be too expensive in the past. The RPL now offers programs that teach the public how to make traditional ribbon skirts and star blankets, which are thought to result in good dreams and prosperity. It also offers powwow dancing courses and storytelling sessions. The library has brought in an Elder from Northern Saskatchewan to teach birch bark biting (an ancient folk art made by biting down on small pieces of folded birch bark to form intricate designs) and moose hair tufting (a method of producing three-dimensional images by stitching and trimming bundles of selected moose hair onto tanned hide or birch bark). Through a partnership with the Albert Library Committee, the RPL also takes families on a cultural day trip to Wanuskewin Heritage Park every year to learn the stories and lifestyles of the Northern Plains Indians who have gathered at this meeting place for over 6,000 years. This summer, the RPL has a number of cultural events scheduled. On June 27, the Regent Place Branch is offering a Value Shields program, where families with children ages 10 and over can learn about teepee teaching, traditional Aboriginal values and symbols, and then create their own family value shield. The program is led by Brenda Dubois, community devel-
opment coordinator with the Randall Kinship Centre. “Everybody has their own values and, based on their own values they will create their own value shield and put it on display,” said Sinclair. “Every time they see it, it reinforces their values.” On June 18, a traditional First Nations food tasting program was held at the Prince of Wales Branch and will take place again on August 22 at the Regent Place Branch. Sioux chef Dickie Yuzicapi will teach participants about the history and tradition of First Nation food. Samples and refreshments will be served. “He’s a very good chef,” said Sinclair. “I think he can make 10 different kinds of bannock or more.” When it comes to Aboriginal library services, Sinclair said Saskatchewan is “seen as a role model” based on the type of programs the province offers. There are two provincial committees in the province focusing on these services. Sinclair often makes presentations on the subject to national and international libraries. RPL will continue with plans to expand its Aboriginal services and ensure its Aboriginal programming and materials are useful and relevant to the city’s population. “It’s still a topic that’s very much in the forefront,” she said. “We’re always looking at ways to improve library services and build and strengthen our relationships with the Aboriginal community by creating partnerships.”
BOOK ONLINE & SAVE MODULARSTORAGE.COM ECO-MOVING BOXES
WE DELIVER
YOU MOVE
WE PICK-UP
MOBILE STORAGE WE DELIVER
YOU PACK WE STORE
WE RENT MOVING BOXES WITH THE OPTION TO STORE
CALL 855.487.6638
REGXS321386_1_1
40
C5
Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan
The University of Regina has embraced two areas of emphasis that inform all our decision-making and academic activities. We are committed to making our campus the most Indigenized in Canada and we view our commitment to sustainability as critical to our future success.
CELEBRATE CANADA! (JUNE 21st - JULY U 1st) National Aboriginal Day: June 21st St. Jean Baptiste Day: June 24th Canada’s Multiculturalism Day: June 27th Canada Day: July 1st
JOIN EVENTS IN YOUR COMMUNITY!
“The most successful students are those who wake up the morning with purpose. Successful students know they are going to make their home, community, province and nation stronger.” Cadmus Delorme, Graduate student, Johnson-Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy
From Many Peoples Strength www.mcos.ca
Shauneen Pete Executive Lead, Indigenization, Associate Professor, Faculty of Education
www.uregina.ca REG00214984_1_1
REG00214885_1_1
REGXS322083_1_1
Knowledge is beautiful.
When soils are healthy, community investment grows. The Gordon Oakes Redbear Student Centre, under construction on the U of S campus, is an inclusive gathering place for all people, Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal, that celebrates the teachings, traditions and culture of Indigenous peoples while also providing a new home for Aboriginal student services and leadership.
Every year, thanks to the farmers who invest in our soil nutrients, PotashCorp invests a portion of its earnings back into our communities — both local and global. Recent local investments include food banks, PotashCorp Playland, and the annual Wanuskewin Heritage Park Powwow & Celebration. Sure, our nutrients nourish
In other words, when the centre opens later this year we will be better able to support our over 2,000 Aboriginal students, and we will have a new space to come together as a community and learn from one another.
crops. But by promoting understanding and appreciation of indigenous cultures, we also nourish human potential. PotashCorp.com/Nourish
usask.ca REGXS318819_1_1
REGXS321861_1_1