CONTEMPORARY INDIGENOUS MAGAZINE
HEALTH, WELLNESS AND PROSPERITY
for Indigenous Businesses
INDIGENOUSFIRST DIVERSITY Means Greater Economic Reconciliation for All
QUICK QUITTING Trend or Truth?
ISSUE 119 BUSINESS & ECONOMICS DISPLAY UNTIL MAY 1, 2023
PM 43436539 PRINTED IN CANADA $8.99
Meet Ben Carr, Rebecca Chartrand and Michelle Boivin of Indigenous Strategy Alliance
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contents.february 2023 ISSUE 119
6 Dream Catcher— Dream Maker
20 Artist White Bear Standing
24 Indigenous Political Institutions
30 Music 36 Top 5 Marketing Tips 38 Advertiser Index
BUSINESS & ECONOMICS
10 Cover Feature The Team at Indigenous Strategy Alliance Is Leading the Way for an IndigenousFirst Approach to Employment Equity and Setting the Standard for Economic Prosperity
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16
Quick Quitting, Different from Quiet Quitting, Is on the Rise. Should Employers be Worried?
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Two Women Entrepreneurs Are Challenging Perceptions in Business: One Owns a Full-Phase Log Harvesting Operation, and the other Owns Two Businesses in Two Different Industries
Work-Life Balance for the Entrepreneur
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Vice President of Indigenous Practice Solutions Leanne Flett Is Ensuring an Indigenous Worldview Is the Foundation of New Group Benefits Plans for Indigenous Businesses
FEBRUARY 2023 | 3
calendar of EVENTS 2023
Vision Quest Conference and Trade Show 2022
MAR 3-5
MAY 17-18
Themed Reclaiming Our Wisdom, this event brings together Indigenous STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) students and professionals over three days. Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada aises.ca
Annual event focused on Indigenous business, community and economic development. RBC Convention Centre Winnipeg Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada vqconference.com
AISES in Canada National Gathering
2023 Vision Quest Conference & Trade Show
MAR 8-10
MAY 17-18
Join industry leaders and innovators for three days of inspiration and learning, including breakout sessions on marketing, pricing strategies, pitching your story and more. Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada indigenoustourismconference.com
Indigenous and non-Indigenous businesses and organizations across Canada come together for economic reconciliation, creating a community focused on action. Grey Eagle Event Centre Tsuut’ina Nation, Calgary, Alberta, Canada forwardsummit.ca
MAR 22-25
MAY 23-24
A four-day gathering, bringing delegates from across Canada to participate in ceremonies, workshops and engaging educational experiences. Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada gatheringourvoices.ca/registration
The Canadian Institute’s 14th annual event brings together consultation experts from across Canada to discuss renewable, sustainable and reclaimable mining activities. Toronto, Ontario, Canada canadianinstitute.com/eastern-indigenousconsultation-engagement
APR 24-25
MAY 24-26
International Indigenous Tourism Conference (IITC)
Gathering Our Voices: Indigenous Youth Leadership Training Event
First Nations Major Projects Coalition Values Driven Economy Conference
This event will share the inside details of successful Indigenous-industry deals, sharing best practices to reach net zero by 2050. Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada fnmpcindustryevent.com
Forward Summit
Eastern Indigenous Consultation & Engagement Conference
Indigenomics By Design
Activate reconciliation in the 100 billion dollar Indigenous economy with the Indigenomics Institute. Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada indigenomicsinstitute.com
SAY Magazine makes every effort to ensure our calendar of events is up to date; however, we encourage you to check event websites regularly for more information. 4 | BUSINESS & ECONOMICS
EDITOR’S MESSAGE
SINCE 2002
Empowering Indigenous Peoples in Business
SAY MAGAZINE Volume 22, Issue 1
P
artnership, alliance, unity, connection, collaboration—if you are at all concerned about the current economic state of the world, these words are already likely part of your vocabulary when it comes to business development. For non-Indigenous businesses, more importantly, these words should take on the form of action with Indigenous Peoples and businesses to further grow the economy and advance economic reconciliation. In this issue of SAY Magazine, read about the people and businesses that are taking an Indigenous-first approach, empowering Indigenous Peoples in business, uplifting our communities, and creating extraordinary opportunities for advancement and prosperity. As a print and digital publication that has been around for over 20 years, SAY Magazine is well aware of the transformation required to keep up with our ever-changing world. Since our inception, the concept of partnership and collaboration has been a driving force in SAY Magazine’s evolution and ability to continue being a relevant resource for Indigenous and non-Indigenous Peoples—an honour we are especially grateful for. That being said, SAY Magazine is excited to welcome a new partnership with the Indigenous Strategy Alliance, and we look forward to collaborating with CEO Rebecca Chartrand and her team. “We are so very excited that Indigenous Strategy Alliance and SAY Magazine are joining forces," says Rebecca Chartrand. "Our collective work will enhance Indigenous education and employment gaps for Indigenous youth across Canada. We are also looking forward to the opportunity to contribute positive stories and share pertinent information in upcoming publications.” In keeping with SAY Magazine’s mission of giving hope and amplifying Indigenous success, we hope you, the reader, feel inspired and empowered, and in return, you invest in the goodness of others.
~ Danielle Vienneau, Editor-in-Chief
2023 Upcoming Issues Space Reservation
Material Deadline
Publication Date
Environment
Mar. 1
Mar. 8
Apr. 15
121
Entertainment
May 1
May 8
Jun. 15
Special Edition
122
Leadership
Jul. 1
Jul. 8
Aug. 15
Fall
123
Education & Training
Sept. 1
Sept. 8
Oct. 15
Special Edition
124
Fine Arts & Crafts
Nov. 1
Nov. 8
Dec. 15
Issue Name
Issue #
Theme
Spring
120
Summer
SAY Magazine is a bi-monthly publication that publishes six issues a year—one issue every eight weeks. SAY Magazine is published by Spirit of Youth Enterprises Inc. Mailing Address: Kildonan Place, RPO Box 43084 Winnipeg, MB Canada R2C 5G7 E: info@saymag.com saymag.com Publishers: Dominick Blais and Kent Brown Editor-in-Chief: Danielle Vienneau: editor@saymag.com Editorial Team: Sarah Ritchie: sarah@saymag.com Theresa Peters: theresa@saymag.com Art Director: Orli Gelfat: orli.g.design@gmail.com Sales Team: Megan Henry: megan@saymag.com Dominick Blais: sales@saymag.com Website and Social Media: Sphere Media Agency info@spheremediaagency.com Submissions are welcome. Articles, letters, queries, etc. should be sent by email to the editor at editor@saymag.com. SAY Magazine assumes no responsibility for submitted material. SAY Magazine assumes no responsibility for statements made by advertisers or in submitted material. Graphics, photographs, editorial content and other printed material that are created by SAY Magazine are the property of Spirit of Youth Enterprises Inc. and may not be used without written permission from the publishers. Printed in Canada ISSN: 1707-3049 GST: 856627534RT0001 This project has been made possible [in part] by the Government of Canada
SAY Magazine acknowledges that we publish in Treaty One Territory, at the crossroads of the traditional lands of the Anishinaabe, Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota and Dene Nations, and at the heart of the Métis Nation homeland. As a diverse team of both Indigenous and ally collaborators, we strive to embrace, embody and live the truth that we are all Treaty people. All our relations! Connect with us: www.facebook.com/saymagazine www.twitter.com/saymagazine www.instagram.com/say_magazine www.pinterest.ca/saymagazine www.linkedin.com/company/say-magazine
Advertise with us! Contact sales@saymag.com. I Order your subscription today. Visit saymag.com/subscribe. FEBRUARY 2023 | 5
BUSINESS
DREAM CATCHER—
DREAM MAKER By Theresa Peters
She’s a mother, foster mom and entrepreneur with two thriving businesses; she lives life with relish and has immense dreams to impact the Indigenous community. Michelle Cameron, of Peguis First Nation, has her hands and heart full. She is relentlessly moving forward, breaking barriers and setting milestones for Indigenous business owners to follow in her footsteps. “I’ve always been an entrepreneur at heart,” Cameron says in an interview with SAY Magazine, and her commitment to constant improvement, success and giving back is a testament to her endurance and hard work. Setting Records
Today she owns Dream Catcher Promotions, the largest First Nation promotions company in Canada (with a new USA branch as well) and Indigenous Nations Apparel Company (INAC). When INAC opened its store in Polo Park, a shopping centre in Winnipeg, Manitoba, it became the very first Indigenous-owned and operated business to ever be in any of the Cadillac-Fairview properties (think of the TD Centre, Eaton’s Centre, Pacific Centre, Chinook Centre and many others).
Breaking Barriers
Dream Catcher Promotions opened its doors in 2011 in a 750-square-foot storefront after Cameron saw a need for custom embroidery and got a grant to 6 | BUSINESS & ECONOMICS
Michelle Cameron
buy an embroidery machine. Had she ever used one before? No, but that did not stop her. And she was not about to let the unraveling of a global pandemic stop her either! Due to COVID-19, Cameron pivoted the business to online sales to pay the rent on the newly acquired 3,500-square-foot location in the Swan Lake Office in Headingley, Manitoba. Cameron is always looking for ways to meet the needs of her audience. Dream Catcher Promotions creates designs for corporations, but there was still a need in the industry for a space for Indigenous artists to design and print their own unique designs for clothing. This need birthed the idea for INAC in 2021—yes, in the middle of the pandemic. INAC not
BUSINESS
only has two storefronts—with the ultimate goal of having a store in every province and territory in Canada—but also partners with The North West Company to get their designs on the racks in rural and remote communities in Canada.
The Why
Knowing why you are doing something is what keeps a person going on the hard days, and Cameron is very clear about her why.
It’s all about community. The stores reflect her community’s culture and dreams, and her success leaves a pattern for others to follow—it demonstrates what is possible. If others see someone from their community thriving and growing in business ownership, then they will believe they can do it too. Cameron thrives on the pride she sees in the Indigenous community and is inspired to leave a legacy of hard work, commitment and business excellence for her children.
Theresa Peters, an educator by trade, is a writer and editor with SAY Magazine. She is also an avid blogger and a Language Arts Mentor with Discern to Learn.
FEBRUARY 2023 | 7
HUMAN RESOURCES
Quick QUITTING Just a Buzzword or Something Employers Should Worry About? By Nikki LaFleche
Gone are the days when we stay at one job until retirement. And while it hasn’t been unheard of to change jobs every couple of years, a new trend is emerging.
Q
uick quitting is when employees are leaving new jobs they’ve had for less than a year in search of greener pastures. This is in part due to inflation, and the rising costs of groceries and gas, but it can also come down to employee engagement. You should also be sure to not confuse quick quitting with quiet quitting. While quick quitting refers to an employee leaving a role after a short tenure, quiet quitting occurs when an employee quits going above and beyond, and only does what is required of them through their job description.
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Signs of Quick Quitting
Now that you know what quick quitting is, let’s talk about some of the warning signs exhibited by someone who is about to quit. Here is what you can look for: ◆ Employee’s social media has changed: Have their posts gone dark? ◆ Employee is exhibiting signs of burnout: Ex. loss of focus, pessimism, irritability ◆ Employee is getting paid much less than they wanted ◆ Employee is lacking enthusiasm and is disengaging from their peers
What Can Employers Do?
While employers can’t control outside factors such as rising costs, there are things you can do to proactively prevent employees from quick quitting. One thing you can do as supervisors is maintain one-on-one weekly meetings and check in with your team individually.
Nikki LaFleche
is a CPHR HR Consultant with Legacy Bowes, and has over a decade of human resources experience in Indigenous Child Welfare where she created and continually improved the HR Department. LaFleche has a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, with a minor in Business, from the University of Manitoba in 2012, and received her post-graduate certificate in Human Resources Management (hons) in 2015. LaFleche has been a Chartered Professional in Human Resources since 2018 and is passionate about developing positive, inclusive and effective work environments where others can flourish. LaFleche finds it rewarding to support organizations in creating ethical and engaging workplaces where employees feel connected, inspired and empowered.
HUMAN RESOURCES
Try Asking the Following Questions:
◆ How are you feeling about work? ◆ What do you like best about your role? ◆ Is there something in your role that isn’t your favourite?
As employers, it’s not only important to ask these questions but to be ready for the responses. Be prepared to accept the answers without a negative reaction. You want to make your team feel valued and create a safe space to communicate. Yes, that employee was hired for a specific role, but sometimes you need to get creative. How can you help? Can they do more of what they like and less of what they don’t? Maybe another team member actually prefers to do what they don’t, which could be an easy solution.
And don’t forget to give praise. Words of affirmation are a wonderful intrinsic benefit. I’m not talking about the blanket “Good job, team!” comments. I mean the “Wow, you clearly spent a lot of time and effort on the project with client XYZ, great job!” This action adds to the overall culture of an organization and can have a huge impact on employees. Knowing the signs and doing your best to avoid the “quick quitters” in your organization are an employer’s best chance at saving a lot of time and money from employee turnover.
“Quick Quitting: Just a New Buzzword or Something Employers should be Worried About?” was first published as a blog post on legacybowes.com and has been printed with permission by the author.
Words of affirmation are a wonderful intrinsic benefit
FEBRUARY 2023 | 9
COVER FEATURE
Advancing IndigenousFirst Diversity and Inclusion in an Era of Truth and Reconciliation By Rebecca Chartrand and Michelle Boivin
s Canada strives for economic and A social reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples, businesses and organizations must align leadership with the opportunities that gave all Canadians the opportunity to live, work and prosper on Canadian soil. By adopting an Indigenous-first approach to employment equity, both Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians can benefit from greater economic reconciliation, improved opportunities for financial stability, and equitable and inclusive workplace environments.
F
rom where we are situated, Winnipeg (Manitoba) is located within the territory of the first Canadian Indian Treaty, known as Treaty One Territory. It was signed in 1871, a few short years after confederation when newcomers declared Canada a new country. From a sovereignty and historical lens, the Canadian Indian Treaties were created a few short years after
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confederation. They were necessary agreements between Indigenous Peoples and a newly formed government that made it possible for newcomers to settle within our territories and homeland. When one hears the statement “we are all treaty people,” it is meant to acknowledge this history and the treaty responsibilities that all Canadians have in upholding those agreements. With that, non-Indigenous peoples must recognize the opportunities afforded to them by the Canadian Indian
COVER FEATURE
Treaties and live up to the responsibilities of those treaty promises. Canadians must recognize that if they live and work in Canada, or own land or run a business in Canada, this was made possible because of the Canadian Indian Treaties. From an anti-racism lens, we must come to terms with the fact that there was never an intention of fairness or a desire for equity, and this too is what needs to be reconciled. We are at a moment in time when we are finally looking at these ugly truths. That is why we must support Indigenousfirst diversity, to ensure it aligns with the mounting societal calls for change outlined in the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. When discussing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), employment equity and/or opportunity for Indigenous Peoples in Canada, conventional methods usually focus on reducing workplace inequities between genders, cultures and visible minorities. This is not enough. We at Indigenous Strategy Alliance believe we must take an Indigenous-first diversity approach to move beyond the status quo. This means digging deeper, emphasizing moral obligations, addressing the rights and responsibilities of treaties, and addressing the needs, experiences and perspectives of Indigenous Peoples. It is imperative that we address systemic racism and discrimination in order to create meaningful opportunities that are tailored to Indigenous Peoples. This includes ensuring Indigenousfocused recruitment, training and education, as well as employment opportunities that address historical wrongs and acknowledge genocide, its impacts and the ongoing marginalization and oppression of Indigenous Peoples. This is an opportunity to create a solution where everyone benefits and provides a lens that can be explored and adopted by employers across the country. In Manitoba alone, Indigenous Peoples make up 20 per cent of the population and need to make up more of the labour force, especially where we are underrepresented. We have the youngest and fastestgrowing demographic that cannot be overlooked.
The unfortunate reality is that Indigenous Peoples have long strived to have a seat at the table, to participate as meaningful partners in Canada’s economy and benefit from rights negotiated at the signing of the Canadian Indian Treaties. It has taken decades of hard-fought legal battles, modern treaty renegotiations and broader consultation frameworks to arrive at this point in time where Indigenous Peoples in Canada can finally benefit from opportunities that were previously enjoyed only by non-Indigenous peoples. ~ Ken Coates, Canadian Historian
FEBRUARY 2023 | 11
COVER FEATURE
With the adoption of an Indigenous-first approach to employment equity, both Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians can benefit from greater economic reconciliation, improved race relations, opportunities for improved wellness and financial stability that ensure Indigenous Peoples can live with dignity, and enjoy privileges and opportunities that have been historically denied. For businesses and organizations wanting to make progress on Indigenous-first diversity, equity and inclusion, the team at Indigenous Strategy Alliance can
provide essential support. This includes creating tailored recruitment, training and mentorship programs that are specifically geared toward Indigenous Peoples. We can work with your business or organization to create initiatives that increase Indigenous representation in leadership roles, create education and training initiatives that focus on understanding and respecting Indigenous cultures, histories and traditions, and strive to create safe, positive workplace cultures to welcome Indigenous Peoples. We can also provide guidance on how to create an inclusive and equitable workplace environment for everyone.
Rebecca Chartrand
Rebecca Chartrand (left), the CEO of Indigenous Strategy Alliance, is an Anishinaabe First Nations woman from Treaty 4 territory in Manitoba with over 25 years of experience in K-12 and postsecondary education, including the arts. She has a strong sense of pride in her identity and is highly respected for her courage, integrity, voice and vision. Chartrand’s work focuses on bridging diverse communities through reconciliation, anti-racism, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), and Indigenous and multicultural education frameworks. She leverages Indigenous ways of teaching, learning and leading to bring a holistic perspective to her leadership style and purpose-driven initiatives.
Michelle Boivin
Michelle Boivin (right) is the VP of Communications and Engagement with Indigenous Strategy Alliance and is a highly-experienced project manager with 25 years of expertise providing comprehensive project management, marketing and planning services to some of Canada’s most notable organizations in the voluntary, not-for-profit, Métis, First Nation and government sectors. She has led numerous highlevel community, regional and national consultations and events for Indigenous communities, government agencies and academic institutions. An active member of Winnipeg’s Indigenous community, Boivin dedicates her time and energy to support the healthy growth and development of children, youth and families in Winnipeg. 12 | BUSINESS & ECONOMICS
Interested in learning more about Indigenous Strategy Alliance as an Indigenousowned and run business? Contact Rebecca Chartrand, Michelle Boivin or Ben Carr by visiting
indigenousstrategy.com.
FEBRUARY 2023 | 13
ENTREPRENEURSHIP
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ENTREPRENEURSHIP
FEBRUARY 2023 | 15
HEALTH
Work-Life
Balance for the Entrepreneur By Theresa Peters
The entrepreneur’s life can be messy. Business life and personal life can collide in a wreck of toddlers, teens and technology, and leave you overwhelmed and gasping for air in a world where everyone wants something from you. How can you succeed in business and manage your life simultaneously? Set Priorities
It is vital to remember what matters and why you do what you do. ◆ What are the real reasons you are an entrepreneur? ◆ What are your goals in business and life? ◆ What recharges you? How will you find a space for it? ◆ Where do relationships fit in? How much will you sacrifice?
Have a Workday Routine
Now that you have a list of priorities, make a schedule. Find time for all the things that truly matter to you. Having a routine helps manage mental health and well-being by signaling the start and end of the workday. It gives your brain the signal that you are now on the clock and, most importantly, at the end of your workday you are clocking out. This is time for other things that matter—fitness, family and friends. This balance of work and life allows you to destress and ultimately give it your all during working hours.
Be Flexible
Guaranteed, your schedule will be interfered with! Your child will get sick, there will be 16 | BUSINESS & ECONOMICS
medical appointments and people will call at inopportune times! It pays to learn to take a deep breath and reschedule. Remember the things that truly matter and do those first. Your child’s needs cannot wait until you are done, but that report will be there later. Your love shines through when they see you stop what you are doing to care for them. (And, respectively, they learn to work hard and be committed when they see you set aside time for your business!)
Get Out, Be Active
Being an entrepreneur so often means sitting at a desk. Your body and mind will thank you for a short walk outside at lunch to get you moving and get some fresh air. Taking care of yourself is taking care of your business. If you have chosen the life of an entrepreneur, you likely already possess a great deal of determination, ingenuity and strength. You are also, perhaps, a spouse, parent, child and friend. You have many roles, and by setting clear priorities, boundaries and plans you can learn to rest in your life. You can be a successful business owner, caring parent and spouse, and dedicated child and friend.
Theresa Peters, an educator by trade, is a writer and editor with SAY Magazine. She is also an avid blogger and a Language Arts Mentor with Discern to Learn.
FEBRUARY 2023 | 17
FINANCIAL HEALTH Sponsored by
Co-Creating Group Benefits Plans with an Indigenous Worldview In August of 2022, Leanne Flett was appointed People Corporation’s National Vice President of Indigenous Practice Solutions. What drew her to the role was the opportunity to be integral in the building process of People Corporation’s Indigenous practice. “It’s common to see a flood of service providers and consultants show up at a First Nation at the first sign of incoming wealth. This doesn’t mean their interest is disingenuous, but the motivation is usually financial gain,” says Flett. “People Corporation’s sole objective isn’t financial opportunity; they’re also focused on improving the group benefits model offered to Indigenous Peoples.” Flett’s Background in the Financial Services Sector
Flett has traveled the country working on Indigenous Settlement Trusts, servicing First Nations communities. Early in her career, she worked as an investment and wealth advisor for several investment firms. She gained experience in a variety of areas, including the life and health insurance space, and was instrumental in opening the first investment brokerage firm on reserve lands 18 | BUSINESS & ECONOMICS
in Westbank First Nation, British Columbia. Later she became the first Indigenous female director of a global investment management firm where she led the Indigenous Services Practice. With Flett devoting her attention to the financial health and sustainable prosperity of Indigenous Peoples and First Nations communities, she’s ready to craft what this space will look like from an Indigenous perspective.
FINANCIAL HEALTH
“I understand the brokenness in the industry,” says Flett. “Even with my successes, I’ve felt the bias. I’ve had the frustration of being the only Indigenous person there, sometimes having to explain how a simple business form excludes our First Nations governance structures. We can implement traditional knowledge into our business practices if our approach is Indigenousfirst. There are many ways to align Indigenous belief systems and methodologies into our work.”
Looking Forward
“This is a unique role, and I’m excited to build People Corporation’s national Indigenous Practice,” says Flett. She’s leading the change to improve health, wellness and prosperity for Indigenous businesses and their employees, and has already made traction. She’s coordinating Indigenous procurement practices, HR practices, Indigenous cultural awareness training and more. According to Flett, “Recognizing culture is important in all business practices.” She’s also building group insurance and benefits, retirement transitions and employer/ employee pension plan portfolios that better reflect the traditional knowledge, health, wellness and family needs of First Nations, Métis and Inuit cultures. She’s working closely with three firms People Corporation has acquired, all of which offer exclusive service to Indigenous businesses. To help ensure a continued positive experience, she’s building in support of potential new acquisitions. “This will outlast me. We’re building a framework with succession planning and support for those who come after me,” says Flett. “My mission is to co-create group benefits plans with an Indigenous worldview and reduce biases in business practices so that seamless processes exist for Indigenous businesses to get coverage that meets their unique needs. There’s enormous potential here, and I’m excited to start building the foundation of our National Indigenous Practice.”
To connect with Flett on the National Indigenous Practice and the needs of your business and teams, email leanne.flett@peoplecorporation.com.
Leanne Flett
leads the National Indigenous Solutions Practice at People Corporation. Leanne Flett is Swampy Cree and Red River Métis on her father’s side, and of Scottish and Irish descent on her mother’s side. She has a diploma in Economic Development from Simon Fraser University, a Wealth Management Essentials certificate from the Canadian Securities Institute, and has completed the Life License Qualification Program (LLQP) for life, disability and group insurance.
About People Corporation’s Indigenous Solutions Practice
People Corporation’s Indigenous Solutions Practice was implemented to improve the group benefits model offered to Indigenous Peoples. The Indigenous Solutions Practice will look at environmental, social and governance impacts on their clients, and supports and respects the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action—specifically Action 92, which “calls upon the corporate sector in Canada to adopt the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples as a reconciliation framework and to apply its principles, norms and standards to corporate policy and core operational activities involving Indigenous peoples and their lands and resources.”
About People Corporation
People Corporation serves business communities with group benefits, group retirement and human resource solutions, with industry experts who provide uniquely valuable insight to customize a suite of solutions for your organization. FEBRUARY 2023 | 19
ARTIST PROFILE
Artist
White Bear Standing By Danielle Vienneau
From the Kijicho-Manito Madaouskarini Algonquin Nation (Bancroft, Ontario), artist Sherry Crawford was given the name White Bear Standing over 20 years ago at a Shake Tent Ceremony. For the last 25 years, Crawford has spent a great deal of her time learning about her Algonquin culture through her own research, and by attending ceremony, Elder gatherings, conferences and workshops. She aims to live her life by the Seven Grandfather Teachings and believes in a holistic approach to life.
I
t is Crawford’s belief that art is a universal form of expression and communication, with the ability to connect all people. She also considers art a modality for healing unique to each person who views, creates or lavishes in both. Crawford has always enjoyed the creative process and the challenge of trying new mediums and techniques, most recently dabbling in the Woodland style. Crawford is a peaceful advocate for Indigenous rights and aims to inspire positive change through her art, social work and other roles, including being an active advisory committee member of the Kijicho Manito Madaouskarini Algonquin Nation in Bancroft,
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Ontario. She holds a degree in Social Service through the First Nations Technical Institute (Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory) and through St. Lawrence College. Crawford is a former circle member at Niijkiwendidaa Anishnaabekwewag Services Circle, and in 2018 she was trained as an Archaeology Liason for the Algonquins of Ontario. At her core, Crawford is an artist and a teacher who looks for opportunities to educate others through her craft and as a workshop facilitator. She has a strong work ethic, hustling and travelling to various festivals throughout the year to meet others and showcase her work.
ARTIST PROFILE
art is a universal form of expression and communication, with the ability to connect all people
FEBRUARY 2023 | 21
ARTIST PROFILE
My teachings are that dragonflies are like messengers. Our loved ones who have crossed over will sometimes come back to check on us, and that is how they do it. It’s something that brings people comfort, especially for those who have had someone pass on and a dragonfly suddenly appears.
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ARTIST PROFILE
In addition to her art shows, Crawford is often asked to speak at events where she also incorporates an impactful Circle of Stones presentation that “visually demonstrates what colonization and residential schools did to our communities,” she says. “When you see it, you feel it, and then you get it. There’s just something about seeing a visual demonstration that really sinks in for people.” Her art often invokes deep conversations with the people she meets, and perhaps it is also due to her social work background, but people are drawn to Crawford, feeling a sense of ease when they meet her and often opening up about their own lives. “Art has a way of opening a dialogue with others, having meaningful conversations with people who have many questions and/or who are eager to share inti-
mate moments of their lives," says Crawford. “I am honoured to hold this space for them.” Crawford’s ceremonial name White Bear Standing truly connects her to her inner spirit, which presents itself in many of her pieces. Drawing from her culture and creating from her heart, her teachings often appear in her vividly brilliant and diverse pieces of work. Crawford is close to retirement but hopes her business White Bear Standing Creative—an online store where art enthusiasts can view and shop her prints—will continue to grow. In the near future, she aspires to open her own art gallery and cultural centre, with a vision of having a consistent space for other Indigenous artists and artisans to showcase their work— something Crawford hopes others will see value in investing in.
Danielle Vienneau, Editorin-Chief with SAY Magazine, believes in the power of sharing positive stories to inspire greatness in others. To submit your story, email editor@ saymag.com.
FEBRUARY 2023 | 23
SELF-GOVERNANCE
Indigenous Political Institutions PART 2
Canada•Greenland•Sápmi By Dr. Rauna Kuokkanen
In this four-part article series, Research Professor Rauna Kuokkanen shares the key findings of her research that has been published as the book Restructuring Relations: Indigenous Self-Determination, Governance and Gender (Oxford University Press, 2019). For her comparative study, she interviewed over 70 Indigenous individuals from Sápmi, Greenland and Canada, the majority of whom were women. She wishes to share her findings as a means to increase awareness and empower women. 24 | BUSINESS & ECONOMICS
S
elf-government is a political arrangement that enables a group to govern themselves according to their own will and through their own institutions. Typically, self-government is outlined in terms of specific areas of jurisdiction, such as education, health care, policing, resource management and cultural affairs. Considering the diversity of the world’s Indigenous Peoples and their social, political and cultural traditions, there is no single approach or model for self-government. This article considers the scope and structures of the existing political arrangements and institutions in three regions: the parliamentary system in Greenland with extensive political autonomy; the elected representative bodies of the Sámi Parliaments in Finland, Sweden and Norway; and the federal Indigenous selfgovernment policy in Canada.
SELF-GOVERNANCE
1 Greenland: From Home Rule to Self-Rule
Over 80 per cent of Greenland’s population are Indigenous Inuit. The large island was colonized by Denmark. As a result of growing dissatisfaction with the Danish rule, an internal Home Rule Committee was created in 1973. The 1979 Greenland Home Rule Act delegated legislative and executive authority from Danish to Greenlandic authorities, within certain areas of jurisdiction. Home Rule was a public government focused on the building of the Greenlandic nation around institutions of Western nation-state, such as democracy and parliamentarianism. In 2009, the Greenland SelfGovernment Act replaced the limited Home Rule arrangement. The new act contains 33 areas of jurisdiction, most important of which is the mineral resources. The development of oil, gas and mineral resources has dominated the public debate because Greenland’s national economy is the biggest challenge to implementing self-government in Greenland.
the Indian Act administration. Different Indigenous nations and groups have very different views and positions on self-government. Since the 1980s, there have been a number of studies and initiatives, most notably the Special Committee on Indian Self-Government and its Penner Report (1983) and in the 1990s, the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples (RCAP) that have recommended the development of a process and framework for the implementation of Aboriginal self-government. The RCAP recommended a number of ways to restructure Indigenous Peoples’ relationship with the state. Suggestions included the nation model the public government model and the community interest model. Besides the models proposed by the RCAP report and others, the federal government’s “Inherent Rights Policy” has identified models for selfgovernment arrangements: First Nations (the standard model seeking to replace the Indian Act through negotiations), Inuit (public government approach), Métis (with or without land base) and the territories (comprehensive land claims).
Unlike the other Inuit jurisdiction of Nunavut, Greenland has expressed no intention of or interest in establishing a government based on Inuit values and governance principles. The common view is that as long as the Inuit in Greenland hold the most positions of political power, the Inuit political power is secured. Many Greenlanders are critical of the continued presence of Danish authority and influence in Greenland’s self-rule. This shows that political institutions are not empty shells. While they can be filled by Indigenous bodies, the institutions come with their own underlying values and ways of organizing and distributing power.
The Indian Act 2 Canada: Administration and Self-
Government Agreements
With 60 to 80 culturally and politically distinct Indigenous nations or peoples, the question of self-government in Canada is far more complex than in Greenland or Sápmi. Many Indigenous nations are further divided into over 600 bands or communities created by FEBRUARY 2023 | 25
Nuuk city covered in snow with sea and mountains in the background, Greenland 26 | BUSINESS & ECONOMICS
SELF-GOVERNANCE
Other ways of categorizing include dividing selfgovernment arrangements into traditional, legislated (e.g., the Indian Act governance), and negotiated self-government (both inside and outside modern treaty-making). The Indian Act legislation can hardly be considered a form of self-government because it renders nearly all decisions by the chief and council system to the approval of the federal Minister of Indigenous Affairs. There are currently 25 signed self-government agreements involving 43 Indigenous communities in Canada. Most of them are part of a comprehensive land claim agreement. Not all modern land claims include governance. The 1984 Inuvialuit Final Agreement, for instance, contains no provisions for self-government yet the Inuvialuit Land Administration could be considered a self-government institution.
3
Sápmi: Self-Administration through Sámi Parliaments
The Sámi Parliaments in Norway, Sweden and Finland are elected Sámi representative bodies in charge of administering Sámi-related affairs, specifically
Sámi cultural policy. They have been established as mainly consultative or advisory bodies rather than self-governing institutions. The Sámi Parliaments exercise limited decision-making authority over their own affairs mainly through the administration and dissemination of state funding. The main difference between self-government and self-administration is of political authority. In selfgovernment, an institution has decision-making powers over its own affairs including resource use, civil affairs, and economic development. Intergovernmental relations are characterized by partnerships, joint decision-making and mutual respect, whereas in self-administration only consultation is required. Selfadministration is limited to administering programs, service delivery, and distribution of resources such as jobs and money. In the past few years, the Sámi Parliament in Norway has increased its authority and political influence. The function of the Sámi Parliament of Sweden is limited mainly to a state administrative body, creating conflicts with regard to the decisionmaking authority and, more fundamentally,
Sámi Parliament (Samediggi Sametinget), the representative body for Sámi people in Norway. The peaked structure of the Plenary Assembly Hall shows the Sámi tipis. FEBRUARY 2023 | 27
SELF-GOVERNANCE
constituting a structural obstacle to Sámi self-determination. The Sámi Parliament in Finland has no power or decision-making authority except in a limited number of internal matters and allocating funding to projects related to the Sámi language, education and culture. Focusing on culture while ignoring the legal and political status of Indigenous Peoples essentializes Indigenous Peoples and reduces Indigenous rights to minority rights.
Observations 4 Key Comparing the Three Cases
A comparative analysis of Indigenous self-government models demonstrates that regardless of the regional, geopolitical, cultural and other sometimes significant differences, there is a fundamental tendency toward Western parliamentary-style institutions and arrangements. In part,
this is due to the insistence by the states with whom Indigenous Peoples are expected to negotiate their autonomous arrangements. It is often also the expressed preference of Indigenous leadership. Indigenous self-government is typically regarded as requiring a localized, culturally-specific, and territorialized application and practice. However, the exercise of Indigenous self-determination seldom is localized, territorialized or culturally-specific all at once. In Canada, negotiated self-government agreements are rarely culturally-specific because they typically follow the formula set by the federal government. The Sámi Parliaments in the three Nordic countries are neither localized, territorialized nor culturally-specific. Notably, there has been little interest by a majority of the Greenlanders and the Sámi in exploring what localized, culturally- specific selfgovernment arrangements could look like. Greenland’s self-government is commonly considered a successful example of implementing and exercising Indigenous self-determination. It is, however, a public government not based on international norms for Indigenous Peoples’ rights. For many Inuit Greenlanders, self-government is a step toward the ultimate goal of full independence. In Greenland selfgovernment represents a process toward modern nationhood and nation-building within the framework of Western institutional arrangements. Indigenous self-government arrangements discussed here are delegated authorities, meaning that their powers derive from the state. While broadly accepted in Greenland and Sápmi, many Indigenous Peoples in Canada are very critical of the delegated authority of self-government. It is seen to legitimize the colonial state as the ultimate authority rather than acknowledging and accepting the ongoing sovereignty and prior occupancy of Indigenous nations.
28 | BUSINESS & ECONOMICS
Rauna Kuokkanen
Rauna Kuokkanen (Sámi) is a Professor of Arctic Indigenous Studies at the University of Lapland (Finland), an Adjunct Professor at the University of Toronto, and a 2021-2023 Fulbright Arctic Initiative Fellow. She previously lived and worked in Canada for nearly 20 years. Kuokkanen is a longtime advocate for the protection of Sámi sacred sites, particularly Suttesája, a sacred Sámi spring in Northern Finland. Currently, she leads the Siida School project, a communitydriven renewal of Sámi Siida system. For more information visit rauna.net.
FEBRUARY 2023 | 29
MUSIC
Hope in an
e g a k c R&B Pa
A
Authentic, moving and inspiring. Hayley Wallis, of the Kitasoo/Xais’xais Nation, is turning heads and getting noticed for her euphonious sound. Her rich-toned singing voice, soulful pop stylings and undeniable confidence has set this young artist apart. Originating from Klemtu, a small, isolated island in the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest in British Columbia, Canada, Wallis began singing at a young age, so young in fact that her father says she sang before she spoke. Writing music is therapy for Wallis—as storytelling is deeply rooted in her culture and bloodline, she calls on its healing properties to tend not only her own wounds but those of her people and every listener. With every word in each of her songs, she hopes the good intention rings clear, resonating and bringing comfort to those listening. As a mother, she sings for herself, her children and her people, setting an example of empowerment for all. Being rooted in her culture has shaped who Wallis is today and helps her carve out a brave path for her children to follow. With two children to raise and a burgeoning singing career, it is easy for her to get lost in the tasks of day-to-day life, but she wants to remain true to her message—that life is about the little things and the little things make big differences. Wallis’ first release resonated with fans in a huge way. The moving and vulnerable debut song “Coffee Cup” is a brave foray into the music industry in which she bares her overwhelmed heart and echoes the sentiments so many felt during the pandemic. Her message of hope and healing has brought the comfort of shared
30 | BUSINESS & ECONOMICS
MUSIC
experiences to so many. Following “Coffee Cup” and the release of a number of original songs including “Not That Serious”, Wallis released her first EP in 2023. Halulu is an inspiring soul-pop EP full of hope, impact and storytelling, and features the beautiful artwork of Heiltsuk artist K.C. Hall on the cover. The title Halulu translates to “butterfly” and is a reference to the transformation that has been happening in Wallis’ life and music. Working with her producer David Hodges, they have created a rich narrative of pushing past boundaries to view the world in a new way—something she hopes will bring joy, reassurance and connection to all her listeners.
The title Halulu translates to “butterfly” and is a reference to the transformation that has been happening in Wallis’ life and music.
Currently based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Wallis—intentional about her impact, legacy and helping others—also brings her energy and knowledge to the youth at the Urban Native Youth Association. A strong advocate for mental health, her work and caring spirit are paving a path for others to follow. She dreams of travelling widely with her message of hope and healing, and wants to remind the world that nothing lasts forever—not even pain.
FEBRUARY 2023 | 31
MUSIC
Lacey Hill Writing prolifically and with three albums under her belt already, she is a powerhouse of talent and a true rising Indigenous artist 32 | BUSINESS & ECONOMICS
MUSIC
inspiration
Frequency
Indigenous soul singer Lacey Hill, of the Oneida/Mohawk Wolf Clan from Six Nations of the Grand River in Ontario, recently released The Moon (528 Volume III), and her confidence as an artist resonates in each note.
H
Hill has a big heart and has had a passion for making music since she was a young child. Over the years, she has paid her dues by singing backup and cover songs, and has the distinction of continuing to release album after album while living in her home community. Each new solo album, featuring Hill and her guitar, expands her fan base and provides new and exciting opportunities to road trip across Canada and travel internationally to places like Australia, Edinburgh and New York.
when time permits she can be found using her talents to inspire others as a motivational speaker with her keynote address titled "Honouring Your Bundle." No matter the platform, it is without a doubt that audiences are drawn to Hill and her positive energy. Writing prolifically and with three albums under her belt already, she is a powerhouse of talent and a true rising Indigenous artist.
Her debut solo album 528 was independently produced and released in 2013, kick-starting her career as a stage musician. Everyone asks, “Why 528?” Her answer is metaphysical: 528Hz is the frequency of love, and it is all about love! Hill is a believer in quantum healing, which teaches that the love frequency is the vibration at which our hearts and spiritual natures connect, bringing awareness of higher potential creating miracles. Hill’s second album 528 Volume 2M was released in 2017, followed by the single “The Shiner” (2020), which premiered on APTN’s Amplify series. Kicking off 2023, her song “The Conduit” from her most recent album hit the charts, finding its way into the top 25 on the Indigenous Music Countdown, and continues to rise. The multi-talented Hill took a lead role in the “NDNs on the Airwaves” web comedy series in 2022, and was a performer and contributor for the Truth and Illusion theatre project at Young Peoples Theatre in Toronto, Ontario, April of last year. As though that were not enough, she is involved in youth mentorship, honing young talent at the Song Studio Live in Toronto, and FEBRUARY 2023 | 33
Kennie Henderson
MUSIC
Carrying ON A
Richie Cudmore
Legacy
T
The sultry summer heat of 2017 was a catalyst for a meeting destined to happen. Kennie Henderson and Harley Whitehead, and their other bandmates, were on a collision course with Richie Cudmore and his bandmates, and Low Budget Rock Star was born with a grand purpose—to save rock and roll! The small and mighty three-piece band of Henderson (guitar, vocals), Whitehead (bass) and Cudmore (drums) from Opaskwayak Cree Nation (The Pas, Manitoba) set the airwaves ablaze before their whole world crumbled. After Cudmore’s cancer diagnosis, the three friends wrote a worst-case scenario “what-if ” song expressing their fears of losing him. Would they find themselves thrust into the unknown streets of Winnipeg, Manitoba, feeling lost, tired and alone? What would they do without their friend? Sadly, this was not a hypothetical scenario. Richie Cudmore passed away in July 2022 at the age of 58, just before the release of the band's single “More Than Ever”. Called "prophets of our time" and "saints of the north," by publicist Eric Alper, their gritty, down-to-earth flair with a pop-rock sound has become their calling card, but how do you cope with the loss of your friend, as well as a founding member and the steady pulse of your band?
We pay tribute to Richie Cudmore, his life, impact and achievements. With a larger than life personality, a love of the lake and hockey, Richard Cudmore’s greatest passion was his family and his music. A father, husband and dear friend to many, Richie will be greatly missed but never forgotten as he leaves a legacy of musical and poetic greatness for others to aspire to. SAY Magazine recently reached out to his bandmates to find out more
Harley Whitehead
about what the future holds for Low Budget Rock Star. First, they say, reality needs some time to take root, and this may not happen right away. "Often it finally hits you in your quiet space—away from busy schedules and the demands of life," says Henderson. "When this happens, there is no option but to grieve." Remembering plays a large part in grieving this loss. Remembering, with gratitude, what Richie brought to their lives and being humbled by the honour it was to have had him in their lives. Each of them has had their share of personal traumas, and music is the outlet that provides comfort and improves their mental health. Spiritually, Henderson and Whitehead have their own forms of prayer and use them to provide stability in their minds, bodies and spirits. There is a road ahead that will be more lonely since the loss of their dear friend, but they will honour his memory by continuing with their shared dreams: to bring music to music lovers far and wide, and use music as a medium to help others in their dark times, whether it’s by watching a live performance or hearing a song on the radio. Low Budget Rock Star aims to capture the spirit of the listener and impact their lives in the same way Richie impacted theirs.
Richard Neil Cudmore July 27, 1963 - July 5, 2022
MUSIC INTERVIEWS by LARRY K. Mar 13 I Hayley Wallis Mar 20 I Low Budget Rock Star Mar 27 I Lacey Hill
34 | BUSINESS & ECONOMICS
Native Voice One
NV1.org
The Native American Radio Network
Visit us at IndigenousinMusic.com
FEBRUARY 2023 | 35
MARKETING
1
Know your Audience
Having a very narrow audience does not have to be a bad thing; it means you can target the people who truly want your product. How would you describe your audience? What is their age? Income? Marital status? The smaller your market is, the better acquainted with them you need to be. Think relational as opposed to transactional.
2
Solve a Problem
What problem can you solve for your client? Connect and listen to your client. Make sure your unique solution is clear and they will want what you have to offer.
3
Find New Avenues
If you want a new audience to increase your sales, you need a new way to spread your message. Where are your clients hanging out? Attend events where you can foster meaningful relationships. In this day and age, it makes sense to look to social media as well. Are potential clients on Facebook or Instagram or TikTok? What do they read? Where do they go? Find new spaces to find new clients and be genuine in your approach.
top 5for tips Marketing To a Niche Audience
4
By Theresa Peters
Leverage Connections and Word of Mouth
Who do you have great connections with? Who are your best advertisers? Your most credible ad is a happy client. If you have a good collaborative rapport with an existing client, encourage them to leave reviews or invite friends. What can you give them as a gift for their loyalty/business? Offer value, and connection and growth will occur.
36 | BUSINESS & ECONOMICS
5
Don’t Forget Old Clients
The people most likely to purchase your product or service are the people who already have! Reach out to those already in your community and who you have connections with first. A phone call or text is a nice way to reconnect, or use email campaigns to target previous or newly expired clients and you will be pleasantly surprised.
Theresa Peters, an educator by trade, is a writer and editor with SAY Magazine. She is also an avid blogger and a Language Arts Mentor with Discern to Learn.
FEBRUARY 2023 | 37
ADVERTISER INDEX AISES in Canada National Gathering aises.ca
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Veterans Affairs Canada veterans.gc.ca/mentalhealth
29
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