February 2019
TSINIKSSINI 2006
whats inside...
2019
Published by Blood Tribe Administration
COMMUNICATIONS Department
The Blood Tribe Administration Review entitled ‘TSINIKSSINI’ is dedicated to the sharing of information for the people of the Blood Tribe. The magazine format features news, stories, articles and an array of items as our way of sharing what is occurring on the Blood reserve and beyond. We hope you enjoy your magazine and invite any suggestions you may have in improving our coverage on any number of events and activities. The magazine will be printed on a monthly basis and will be distributed to various locations on-and-off the reserve. The magazine is free of charge. The magazine is published by the Blood Tribe Communications department. The collection of information, photographs and layout of the magazine is from the Blood Tribe Communications department. Reproduction of any story or use of photographs must be requested in writing and addressed to the Blood Tribe Communications department. Any unauthorized use of stories and photos of TSINIKSSINI or from the Blood Tribe Communications department may infringe on tribal copyright laws. We would like to acknowledge the Blood Tribe Chief & Council and the people of the Blood Tribe for your support. Rick Tailfeathers: Communications Director Tom Russell: Communications Writer Myron Fox: Layout Graphic Design Zane Medicine Crane Photos/Stories
This month brought temperatures up to where we are pretty most accustomed to at this time of the year. Though there wasn’t too much snow, the temperatures brought with it the dangers normally associated with a cold spell of such frigid Lows. For instance, the decision made by our leadership to close the Blood Tribe Administration and other places of business was a reminder to us all of the need for safety and to stay home without fear of being caught in the bitterly freezing environment. The Bringing the Spirit Home detoxification facility is a blessing and a godsend for our people. As you have read in the January issue of TSINIKSSINI, through information shared with us by Jacen Abrey, Blood Tribe Emergency Services director, the number of overdoses and deaths attributed to the illegal drugs is staggeringly high. As concerned members of our tribe and communities, what can we do to clean up our homeland, our camps? We have many people who are addicted to these opioids and they need help. But really, the ultimate choice rests in their hands. We know, or must be aware, that our service providers, the doctors, support workers, our EMT personnel, and the many other people involved are tired. Tired in the sense that many who are addicted, and try their best to avoid these drugs, relapse. And then it’s back to square one for the service providers to run around in this deadly cycle. The Piikani Nation are also working toward establishing their own opioid treatment facility and together, the Blackfoot Confederacy Nations can walk forward together in finding solutions for living in healthy environments once again. The individuals who are most responsible for the addictions, and the deaths, are the dealers of these drugs. They are allowed to be a part of a society they are responsible to for tearing down and ripping apart the Blackfoot values our ancestors taught us. These drug dealers can walk around here in our communities without shame, knowing too well that their drugs caused an overdose, and yes, even death. Do your thing AND REPORT THESE DRUG DEALERS TO THE POLICE. By reporting these people to the police, you may have saved countless lives by being responsible.If you have any events or information to share, please contact us at the Blood Tribe Communications department. The TSINIKSSINI magazine can also be viewed at bloodtribe.org. ‘Til next time…
Published by the authority of Blood Tribe Chief & Council Box 60 Standoff, AB T0L 1Y0 ph: (403) 737-3753 FAX: (403) 737-2785 visit our website for more... www.bloodtribe.org
cover photo Tribal Government & External Affairs Chairperson Dorothy First Rider, along with management and staff and the Tribal Government Committee have been busy notifying voters of the Mismanagement of Assets/Betrayed Wards Specific Claim information and encouraging eligible tribal members to vote on March 11, 2019. Front Page Photo: Tom Russell Additional Photographers: Kansie Fox. 2
Trevor Page, Sandra Delaney, William Singer,
TSINIKSSINI February 2019
TRIBAL MEMBERS RECEIVE INFORMATION ON MISMANAGEMENT OF ASSETS CLAIM value of the loss was then brought forward and expressed in today’s dollars. What are we Voting on? The acceptance of the negotiated Settlement Offer of $150 Million (less negotiation loan funding in the amount of $526,039), and the Trust Agreement. What is the Trust Agreement? The Trust Agreement indicates how the funds will be used. The Settlement dollars will go toward: A Per Capita Distribution of $2,000 upon a Successful Vote as well as Capital Projects including, but not limited to the following: Blood Tribe Administration Building, Peacemaking Center/Court Facility, Red Crow Community College, Akers Development – Hotel/Convention Centre and Residential Development, Hockey Rink, Multi-family Housing, Treatment Facility, Red Crow Park/Rodeo Grounds, and additional Per Capita Distributions based on Annual Interest Earned.
Tribal Government & External Affairs Committee member and Blood Councilor Kirby Many Fingers.
Blood Tribe members residing on the Blood Reserve, in Calgary, Lethbridge and surrounding areas had the opportunity to hear details provided by the Blood Tribe’s Tribal Government & External Affairs Department and Committee regarding the Mismanagement of Assets Claim/ Betrayed Wards. On January 30, 2019 the first information session occurred at the Stand Off Multipurpose Building, followed by the meeting at the Carriage House Inn in Calgary on February 13, 2019 and at the Sik-Ooh-Kotoki Friendship Centre in Lethbridge on February 19, 2019.
blessings before Clayton Blood introduced Joanne Crook, Walsh LLP to present a legal overview of the Settlement Agreement and Trust Agreement. Mark DuBlois and Phil McFarland, KPMG, presented a Financial Overview of the Trust Agreement and in particular its investment provisions.
MC, Clayton Blood, welcomed the tribal members in attendance at each of the three information sessions and kept the information flowing in introducing the Tribal Government Committee Members: Dorothy First Rider, Chairperson, Kirby Many Fingers, Joanne Lemieux and Martin Heavy Head. Wilton Goodstriker is the Ratification Officer and was on hand to provide information with regard to the Voting process. Andrew Weasel Fat offered
What is the Claim? The Mismanagement of Assets Claim is about Canada’s mismanagement of the Blood Tribe cattle herd and the over-grazing of the Blood reserve between 1894-1923. The Blood Tribe filed a claim against Canada in 2000 under the Specific Claims Policy. In 2011, Canada accepted the Claim and negotiations took place from 2013-2018. A Loss of Use study was completed to determine the Blood Tribe’s losses. The
During these meetings, those in attendance were provided information on a number of topics including: What is the Claim? What are we voting on? What is the Trust Agreement? What Capital Projects are included? When is the Ratification Vote?
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When is the Ratification Vote? The vote will take place on March 11, 2019 at the Multipurpose Building in Stand Off, AB., from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and at the Carriage House Inn at 9030 Macleod Trail South in Calgary on March 11 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. The vote is open to eligible Blood Tribe voters 21 years of age or over on March 11, 2019. The following question shall be asked of the eligible Voters of the Blood Tribe by Ballot: Do you approve of and agree to the terms and conditions of the Mismanagement of Assets Claim Settlement Agreement and Trust Agreement and authorize a quorum of Blood Tribe Council to sign all documents necessary to give effect to these Agreements?
Story by Tom Russell
TSINIKSSINI February 2019
Background
For numerous years Blackfoot Chiefs, Chairman and Councils discussed formally establishing the Blackfoot Confederacy as an entity. In May 2000 Amskapi Piikani, Kainai, Piikani and Siksika signed a declaration that confirmed and renewed the commitment to deal with common issues as one united Confederacy. “In wisdom, we unify for the betterment of the lives of the people who together comprise the Blackfoot Confederacy and to regain our strength and sovereignty as a people over traditional Blackfoot Territory.” The strength of the Blackfoot Confederacy is derived from each Nations Elders declarations. On July 9, 2018 the Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council Office was formally opened to better serve the members of Kainai, Piikani, Siksika and Amskapi Piikani.
Vision
Siksikaitsitapi, honouring and utilizing the past, into the present, for the future Blackfoot way of life.
Mission Statement
To collaborate, restore, protect, honor and enhance the collective culture, language and self-identity of the Blackfoot People; and to establish political and economic sovereignty over the Traditional Territory, including natural resources, for the benefit of current and future generations of the Blackfoot People. Strategic Direction: This following diagram outlines the valued guidance and direction that influences and informs the Confederacy’s work. In my Role as Chief Executive Officer for the Blackfoot Confederacy I oversee
the development of proper governance structures and effective day-to-day operations. We have developed a five-year strategic plan, annual operational plan, financial policies, human resource policies and procedures to ensure achievement of Siksikaitsitapi goals and objectives. Our office respects the autonomy of each Blackfoot Nation and strives to ensure we focus on strengthening collective priorities, information sharing, and best practices. To facilitate that process numerous action-based working groups are being established to assist in ensuring the involvement of our Nations elders, leaders, technicians, youth and community members.
Priority Areas:
The Blackfoot Confederacy has seven priority areas: 1. Blackfoot Culture and Language – To maintain, control, protect, develop and strengthen Blackfoot cultural heritage, traditional knowledge, traditional cultural expressions, oral traditions, and literatures. 2. Political and Legal – To ensure Treaty relationships are respected and honored and Blackfoot Confederacy rights are protected; strong Nation to Nation relationships are developed; and appropriate representation and advocacy takes place at the provincial and national levels in order to advance Blackfoot Confederacy interests.
3. Economic Development – To improve the economic well-being and quality of life of Blackfoot Confederacy members by strengthening employment and entrepreneurship, by developing trade and other agreements to leverage advantage for the Blackfoot Confederacy, by jointly developing sectors that are beneficial to the Blackfoot Confederacy. 4. Social – To develop sectors such as health, education, housing and wellness that contribute to the all-round development of the Nations within the Blackfoot Confederacy, resulting in the elimination of gaps, increase in success rates, integration of culturally appropriate measures, and improvement of quality of life. 5. Environment, Land and Climate Change – To determine and develop priorities and strategies for the protection, and sustainable development of lands and natural resources while incorporating traditional Blackfoot knowledge. 6. Communications – To communicate effectively the priorities and activities of the Blackfoot Confederacy internally and externally in order to meet the Confederacy’s goals and achieve its vision. 7. Blackfoot Confederacy Operations – To develop the core of the Blackfoot Confederacy, including its day to day operations to ensure achievement of its goals and effective coordination with the Nations.
Blackfoot Confederacy Technicians.
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Submitted by Jack Royal
TSINIKSSINI February 2019
ALBERTA HEALTH ADVOCATE REPRESENTATIVES MEET WITH TRIBAL MEMBERS TO HEAR CONCERNS Representatives of the Alberta Health Advocates met at the Multipurpose building on February 8, 2019, to discuss and listen to the concerns or complaints from community members about their health care experiences which may result in an investigation or a referral to the appropriate complaint resolution process. The AHA provide education about the Alberta Heath Charter and patients’ rights as set out in the Mental Health Act and connect people with health and mental health services, programs and resources. The office of the Alberta Heath Advocates is located in Edmonton, Alberta. “We have a process of advocating, it’s not just to come for training and that’s it, but you know how our people have been speaking about all the discrimination and racism,” said Lenora Many Fingers, AHCC member and Kainai representative. “Well, Chief & Council have blessed me with this project and from the beginning it’s taken almost two and a half years to get where we are today. We’re providing tools for everybody on and off the reserve to help our people.” Several Albertans have told the AHA that they need a place to go to find information on legislation, policies, programs and services. The Health Advocate and Mental Health Patient Advocate assist Albertans in dealing with their concerns about health and mental health services. The AHA envisions an integrated and responsive system that empowers and supports Albertans as full participants in their care and fairly addresses their concerns about services that impact health. The AHA promotes self-advocacy and assists Albertans in dealing with their health and becoming empowered and effective advocates. The AHA values include: respect, integrity, compassion, engagement and excellence. The Health Advocate cannot represent an individual in court or tribunals, reverse a clinical or administrative decision, take disciplinary action against any health service provider, order any fines or other penalties, investigate complaints involving federal or municipal governments, police, universities, schools, or other non-health related companies.
The six habits of highly effective advocates are: getting organized, knowing the facts, identifying the problem(s), identify key decision makers, assertive communication and strengthening the numbers. The Apiistamiiks White Buffalo Trail Blazers were also in attendance representing First Nation members in the surrounding areas. The purpose and mandate of the Apiistamiiks is to give a voice to those who feel they cannot speak up for themselves. They aim to bring to an end the racist and discriminatory acts in southern Alberta communities. The Apiistamiiks White Buffalo Trail Blazers will use as a guide the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the Blackfoot Ways of knowing, which will be among those listed in their responsibilities. Other responsibilities included are kindness, being helpful and respect to all peoples.
Alberta Health Services representative sharing information with participants.
The above pictured individuals organized and participated in Health Advocacy training.
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Story by Zane Medicine Crane
TSINIKSSINI February 2019
PLAITED HAIR AND LOCAL EMPLOYEES DEVELOP TRADITIONAL TIPIS FOR CONTEMPORARY TIMES
Travis Plaited Hair, Executive Director, Sik-Ooh-Kotoki Friendship Society, continues community enhancement and advocacy.
Community members residing in the City of Lethbridge and from the Blood Tribe are involved in contributing to the traditional lifestyle of the Blackfoot through their design and construction of a shelter that has long protected the First Nations people from the oftentimes, harsh weather – the tipi. Travis Plaited Hair, Executive Director, Sik-Ooh-Kotoki Friendship Society says the tipi design and development was through consultation with tribal elders who offered their advice in the eventual design of the tipis. “I’ve been involved with tipis for quite a few years, going back to working at the Buffalo Jump since the early 2000s,” he says. “The late Adam Delaney taught us how to put up tipis and I’ve always used his style. Adam always said to do it in one shot, so to this day, I follow his style and I can pretty much put up any tipi.” Using his skills as a former employee of the Buffalo Jump and as a coordinator of the Tipi Camp there, he studied tipi design and came up with an eventual plan beneficial in
offering protection from the elements. “I’ve always wanted to recreate our own Kainai tipis,” he explains. “My dad (the late Pete Standing Alone) had a tipi that his mother sewed, I did some research and Peter Weasel Moccasin helped me; between the two of us we came up with a pattern that we would consider Kainai style based on our experiences. Based on that pattern, I wanted to sew a tipi.” Plaited Hair then contacted Dave Gibson who was willing to lend his experience in the sewing and canvas business. Their first tipi, following Plaited Hair’s and Weasel Moccasin’s blueprint, was ready to take shape. “At first, it was just a project, just to see if we could do it,” says Plaited Hair. “The first one turned out really well. At last year’s National Aboriginal Day, we set up the 18-footer that Gibson sewed, based on that pattern, and it looked really nice. We decided to go ahead and invest in equipment.” 6
As a result of their craftsmanship, Plaited Hair then established a tipi-making program housed at the friendship centre where participants learn and gain firsthand experience in crafting their own lodges. “We put two of our new tipis up at last year’s Sundance and my son Odessa was proud that the tipi he made was used in a transfer ceremony,” he says. “We like to say our style is more true to the Kainai style and we just want to provide that service to people and we’re working on other items we can sell as well. We have a really good product. We’ve got the best equipment and an instructor and we want to open it up for more women to make their own tipis, liners and other things vital. I think it’s just to keep that skill alive so that we can say we made our own tipi and not to copy other ways.” Plaited Hair and his tipi-making program are taking orders and anyone wanting to purchase their own tipi can call the Lethbridge Friendship Society. Story by Tom Russell
TSINIKSSINI February 2019
PROMOTING FOOD SECURITY THROUGH KAINAI HIGH SCHOOL GREEN HOUSE PROJECT
Kansie Fox, Jody Harker, Alvin First Rider and Terrence Ashley in one of the smaller greenhouses.
Food insecurity is a fact of life on a lot of First Nations and these communities are beginning to find new and innovative ways to address the needs of the people. One way is re-introducing agriculture and horticulture knowledge in the classrooms. In the mid 1970s, the formerly known St. Mary’s High School built their own greenhouse and was maintained by the students when industrial classes like vocational agriculture were a part of the curriculum in residential schools. The idea was to introduce a “learn by doing” approach that gave the student an opportunity to develop their skills and further their knowledge of how the Niitsitapi lived off the land. The classes continued for a few years and then were not offered anymore depending if the school had the space and a facility, or an instructor; the greenhouse sat unused until plans to begin using the structure began in late 2018. Through the Blood Tribe Land Management (BTLM), a project is currently underway with the Kainai High School to repair and restore the greenhouse to begin the “hands on” approach with the students by having them grow a selection of vegetables and traditional wild varieties of plants that grow here on Kainai. Alvin First Rider, the Environmental Researcher with the BTLM Environment Division, states:
“Part of the project is working collaboratively with teacher Jodie Harker from Kainai High School to teach students about gardening and assisting her in the classroom is William Singer who shares his knowledge of the traditional use of wild plants and is currently experimenting with their cultivation. This approach will provide the students with an outdoor education that they can continue to utilize at home.” He adds: “BTLM is going to be using part of the space in the KHS greenhouse to start growing plants that could be used this coming spring/summer. We are going to be designating some sites on the reserve that need some restoration efforts to start them on a natural/historical trajectory.” On January 17, 2019 BTLM Environmental division travelled down to the Confederate Salish & Kootenai Tribes (CS&KT) reservation in Western Montana to tour their tribal owned greenhouse. Terrence Ashley, who works at the greenhouses, gave the group a look into their operations and the types of trees and shrubs they grow and how they have been growing their own sweet grass, bitter root and camus bulb/ root for a number of years now. CS & KT tribal elders harvest first, then distribute to everyone else in the community. It was quite an informative visit and was shown various types of greenhouses, the various shrubs or trees that grow in them and 7
the community garden beds. The BTLM Environmental staff is looking at starting a greenhouse project similar to the CS & KT. “The project team will be harvesting seeds and plants that are significant to the Kainai Nation. We are looking at cultivating culturally significant species for future reclamation/restoration projects and the creation of a seed bank of the plants that are at risk of extinction or declining in our area,” says First Rider. “As the project continues BTLM will be working closely with knowledge keepers to follow Blackfoot protocols and to collect information on areas that need to be addressed. We are looking at constructing a community greenhouse and community garden boxes.” The garden boxes will be built in each of the communities on the reserve for public use. This project is aimed at providing the members of the reserve with a healthy alternative by engaging in outdoor recreation. Community involvement is key in the success of the projects and is one way to overcome food insecurity issues is with public awareness and “learn by doing” approach. If you would like more information about these projects, please call BTLM at 403-737-8151. Submitted by: William Singer III & Alvin First Rider (BTLM)
TSINIKSSINI February 2019
Kainai Youth Arts & Media Summit
Kainai Youth Arts& Media Summit personnel and participants pose for group photo.
The Kainaiwa Children’s Services Corporation hosted their annual Kainai Youth Arts & Media Summit at the Multipurpose Building in Standoff on the 19th to the 21st 2019. It was facilitated by Cowboy Smithx and the Iiniistsi Treaty Arts Society; there was also the staff of Kainaiwa Children’s Services Corporation, a handful of mentors and volunteers helping with the over 200 students that participated throughout the course of the three-day summit. “I am the co-founder of the whole thing. It was a dynamic range of opportunities for all of the young people to get new experience and maybe potentially pursue a career in one of these fields,” said Smithx. The workshops included creative writing, film, post-production, podcasting, theatre, photography, social media, journalism, culinary arts, culture and sports. The schools were closed during the week due to the reading week break and this was a great opportunity for the summit to take place so that the children would have an opportunity to explore the workshops and gain experience. “I started when I was 12 years old, so I got like over 20 years of experience doing everything from radio, theatre, film production,” said Smithx. “I went to a film school in Los Angeles and Vancouver. I also graduated from an ensemble theatre program in Vancouver as well and I’ve been making movies for a very long time
now.” Cowboy Smithx is a Blackfoot filmmaker from the Piikani and Kainai Nation. Smithx has acted in, co-produced and directed a few short films and music videos. His best-known work is a full feature documentary co-produced with Chris Hsiung called, Elder in the Making. The film is about reconciliation between non-Indigenous and Indigenous Peoples in Canada. Cowboy Smithx is a 2008 graduate from the Indigenous Independent
Participating in a team-building exercise.
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Digital Filmmaking Program at Capilano University and he has various film work recognized and awards presented to him. This year marks the 4th annual summit of KYAMS on the Blood Tribe and it only gets bigger and attracts more attention every year. More children want to attend and there was an Enoch councilor that had visited on the second day to see what it was about. Blackfoot actor, Eugene Brave Rock, was also present on day two to meet with students and give back to the community.
TSINIKSSINI February 2019
“We want to be behind Kainaiwa Children’s Services Corporation and the departments to continue to set up programs and activities for our kids,” said Blood Councilor Marcel Weasel Head. On the final day of the summit, during the afternoon hours, there were three young female students who dedicated a song they created during the course of the three days while at the summit -- the song was dedicated to their friend who is no longer with them. These young students displayed tremendous courage to get on the stage and perform in front of the audience. The students were gifted with an iPad for their efforts and participation during the summit. “Lot of these kids, when they started the first day, they were clingy to each other and then I came the second day, you could start seeing that they were participating,” said Blood Councilor Kyla Crow. “Now, on the finial day, they are all participating and laughing.”
Group interaction helping to build bonds.
Two students in cooking class.
Blaire Russell teaching students on media involvement.
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Story by Zane Medicine Crane
TSINIKSSINI February 2019
INTERNATIONAL PEACE POWWOW ATTRACTS MANY OF THE INDIAN NATIONS TOP DANCERS
Selena Medicine Shield and Mikayla Hunt with out-going royalty.
The 20th annual International Peace Powwow & Festival took place on February 23 – 24, 2019 at the Lethbridge Enmax Centre. The annual Pow-Wow is a worldclass festival to showcase Indigenous culture, art, dance, authentic Indigenous crafts and jewelry. The cultural event brought several walks of life to witness Indigenous performances and singing. Many of the contestants travelling from afar to compete as an Indigenous performer. Event organizers named the 2019 Miss Blackfoot Canada and Junior Miss Blackfoot Canada during the two-day powwow. Dr. Leroy Little Bear, recipient as an Officer of the Order of Canada and University of Lethbridge Chancellor and former Blood Chief Charles Weasel Head were bestowed with an honor dance during the powwow festival. The Blackfoot Canadian Cultural Society have a process of selecting the Miss Blackfoot Canada. The qualifications require a female, verifiable Blackfoot lineage, must be single with no children, have some knowledge of Blackfoot traditions and they must be over the age of thirteen. But, for the Junior Miss Blackfoot Canada, they must be either 7-years-old to 12 years of age and the qualifications are similar to Miss Blackfoot Canada. “These young women are very aware of the
issues that are faced by Indigenous people, they’re our future leaders and they’re very concerned about what is happening in our communities,” said Jayne Scout, Lead Pageant Coordinator.
The Miss Blackfoot Canada and Jr. Miss Blackfoot Canada pageants are based upon the following: • A 500-Word Essay On Themselves • Private Interview with Judges • Dance Exhibition • A Blackfoot Speech • Ticket Sales A Siksika member, a Blackfoot Contemporary Jingle Dress Dancer, Selena Medicine Shield, was crowned Miss Blackfoot Canada 2019 and Mikayla Hunt, a young Blackfoot Fancy Dancer, was crowned Jr. Miss Blackfoot Canada 2019 on the last day of the festival. Selena Medicine Shield was a Blackfoot Ambassador for the Blackfoot Art Gallery during the summer of 2018. She dances for her loved ones that have passed on, but remains resilient and dances to heal their spirit. Medicine Shield embraces the Blackfoot way of life and during her time as Blackfoot Ambassador has learned so much about our Blackfoot customs and traditions.
“The Blackfoot culture is empowering to me because of the history behind it. It resembles a healing tradition which will be carried on for many years. The red jingle dress that I am wearing today represents the Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women,” -Miss Blackfoot Canada, Selena
Medicine Shield. Blackfoot Canada royalty.
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Story by Zane Medicine Crane
TSINIKSSINI February 2019
FORMER KAINAI CHIEF CHARLES WEASEL HEAD NAMED AS 14TH CHANCELLOR FOR UNIVERSITY OF LETHBRIDGE
Former Chief Charles Weasel Head, with wife Rhonda and supporters, guests of honor dance at Blackfoot powwow.
Former Kainai Chief Charles Weasel Head Jr. was appointed by the University of Lethbridge Senate on February 1, 2019 and will serve as the University’s 14th chancellor. This is a historic moment as for the first time in the University’s 52-year history, the position will be held by a First Nation’s person. Elder and Blood Councilor Martin Heavy Head opened with a prayer before the declaration on the university campus at Markin Hall. Faculty, students, distinguished guests and members of the community were all patiently waiting for the upcoming announcement. “I am truly honored and deeply moved, and in absolute awe,” said Weasel Head as he stood at the podium. Weasel Head served as the Chief of the Kainai First Nation from 2004-2016; he is also former Treaty 7 Grand Chief. A survivor of the residential school era, he has devoted his life promoting health, education and economic development issues for Indigenous peoples. “My past job as Chief and Grand Chief have allowed me the experience to move forward with regards to building relationships and the complete engagement of our Aboriginal
people going into education and the workforce,” said Weasel Head. He has served the Kainai Nation on a number of boards, committees and was a signatory to the Alberta Protocol Agreement on government-to-government relations and the Memorandum of Understanding on First Nations’ education. Weasel Head is also recognized as a determined leader who fosters relationship building to resolve social issues and has worked very hard with every level of government in Canada. Weasel Head acknowledges the Mayor of Lethbridge, Chris Spearman, U of L Senate Committee, Board of Directors, alumni, his wife Rhonda and members of his family. He also thanks Dr. Leroy Little Bear and President Dr. Mike Mahon, who also serves as the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lethbridge. The Chancellor functions as chair of the University Senate and is the ultimate authority for the conferral of academic and honorary degrees. The Chancellor also presides over all university convocations. The University of Lethbridge is located on traditional Blackfoot Territory and the institution has a shared history with the Indigenous community. 11
“I would like to recognize that our University rests on the traditional Blackfoot land. It’s my pleasure to welcome friends and relatives from Blackfoot and other Indigenous communities,” said Dr. Mahon. Mahon looks forward to working alongside with Chancellor Weasel Head as they continue to strengthen existing connections and building new relationships for the University of Lethbridge. Weasel Head holds a certificate of Hospital and Health Care Administration from the University of Saskatchewan and has served on the Board of Directors for Athabasca University. He will be installed officially as the University’s 14th Chancellor at the 2019 Spring Convocation. Weasel Head succeeds Janice Varzari who served admirably as chancellor since 2015.
Story by Zane Medicine Crane
TSINIKSSINI February 2019
“There is a wide area that people need to meet a certain standard. That begins with the minimum requirements. The minimum requirements are very simple, you have to have a minimum of a high school diploma. You have to have a class five driver’s license without a GDL on it, so graduated driver’s license. You have to meet certain drug parameters and that has recently changed a little bit of course because of the legalization of marijuana,” said Holmquist.
Proud parents pose with their son Brendin.
When the fire alert alarm goes off in The Big House, the name given to the Calgary Fire Department (CFD) Headquarters, a Siksika Nation member will be one of the firefighters there to answer the call and respond to the emergency. After 17 weeks of intensive training, Brendin Running Rabbit is one of the newest recruits to graduate from the Calgary Fire Department Fire Training Academy and MultiAgency Training Centre, and is eager to put his newly acquired skills to work. “It feels really good, I can’t really describe the feeling. Seventeen weeks of hard training, not impossible training, maybe difficult at times, but definitely hard training. It feels good to come to the end of that and put my skills to work,” said Running Rabbit of how it feels to graduate from the program. As a graduate of Class Two of 2018, Running Rabbit is now a probationary firefighter with Platoon B and will be stationed at the department’s headquarters, Highfield Fire Station No. 16, located at 11 St. and 42 Ave. S.E. Running Rabbit started his firefighter career in 2001 with the Siksika Fire & Rescue dept. and worked in that dept. for 12 and-a-half years. He credits the dept. for instilling in him a foundation that he could build upon. “Being a firefighter back home at Siksika we were taught to a high standard but coming here to CFD is very different skill set. The skills that I learned at Siksika gave me a good base, base of knowledge and something to work with when I came here. And I would say it definitely helped me personally,” said Running Rabbit. One of the biggest challenges during his months of training was “getting comfortable being uncomfortable.” He lists other moments in training that stand out for him and knows those moments of discomfort will serve him well in
the long run in his chosen profession. “There is quite a bit over 17 weeks of, like I said, training and the adversity that you face almost on a day-to-day basis. Especially when we went through the big four with Search and Rescue, Hose Evolutions, Ladders and VX, and our medical training. Learning that skill set with SFD can almost make a difference in how the job gets done on a fire ground, I think.” Running Rabbit has some tips people could use when deciding if they want to become a professional firefighter. “Maybe talk to guys on the job, talk with people, go out and do a fire station visit. I know one of the guys here he actually just reached out to the former recruitment officers and just asked him if he would like to go for some coffee and then it just went from there. And he got some advice from him how he should prepare himself, so that is something that is not definitely out of the question. Even coming here to the academy and asking to speak to a recruitment officer I guess that might help them.” Running Rabbit said some of the personal traits that could assist you in this profession include being persistent and always being prepared. Individuals should not always be looking out for themselves but looking out for fellow nation members and always helping others. It helps if the individual is confident in himself or herself and confident in what they have to offer, not only to your family but also to your community. Calgary Fire Department Recruitment Officer Katrina Holmquist said they don’t have statistics on the number of aboriginal firefighters within the dept. but are looking for recruits from minority groups to be more reflective of the Calgary population. Also, having previous experience in firefighting is not a prerequisite for training to become a Calgary firefighter but it would help. 12
Persons interested in applying must be able to work in Canada and must have a pardon or suspension of criminal record. Applicants are also expected the have certain qualifications like advanced first aid. The person doesn’t need those qualifications when you apply but they do need them in order to get hired. The hiring process is fairly long, up to a year and sometimes longer. This gives people the opportunity of acquiring those qualifications while they are still in the process. Carol Henke, Public Information Officer for the Calgary Fire Department said the fire department attends roughly 60,000 calls every year and as the population increases so do the amount of calls. Half of the calls, approximately 30,000 a year, the fire dept. attends with their colleagues from Alberta Health Services in response to critical medical interventions, including heart attacks, breathing problems, overdoses, traumas, etc. “I mean the fire department is so much more than just fire. Fire is actually a smaller proportion. Twenty-five per cent of our calls are related to fire in some way; be they alarms, alarms in buildings, pots on the stove. Interestingly, we attend between one and two kitchen fires every single day in the city of Calgary, and half of those deal with cooking with oil,” said Henke. “The fire truck is a huge tool box that you use each tool differently, it’s about problem solving, quick effective problem solving because often someone’s life is at stake.” Running Rabbit is eager to answer the alarm and put his newly acquired skills to work while learning others skills from veteran firefighters for the benefit of Calgary and area citizens. “I’m looking forward to just getting out onto the floor and proving myself, and proving what I learned here in training and putting that to work and even learning some new skills. Guys that are on the floor now have safety experience that they have to offer so l am looking forward to it,” said Running Rabbit.
Submitted by Wes Waterchief - siksika news
TSINIKSSINI February 2019
PIIKANI’S IINII HEALING HOUSE
OPENS ITS DOORS FOR THOSE SEEKING SHELTER FROM ADDICTIONS
Dymples Stump assists with the cutting of the ribbon for the Iinii Healing House on Piikani Nation.
The Piikani Nation had a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially open the Iinii Healing House where those dealing with overcoming their addictions could seek shelter for up to two months in the eight-bed facility. Dymples Stump, Piikani Mental Health Addictions manager, says she was happy the doors are open in progressing with the healing process for the people in their community. “We called it a house. We want it to be a home,” explains Stump. “We didn’t want it to be institutional, it’s a home. It’s going to be their (clients) home.” Stump says their program is based on healing that is often over-looked when people are trying to find ways to deal positively with their addictions.
“This is a pre-and post-treatment program. We are looking at some of the gaps we are finding in sending our people to treatment,” she says of the IHH, and adds the facility will offer those wanting to seek help will be a healthy environment as they wait for an opening at a treatment centre. “At the moment they want to go (seek treatment),
we look at which treatment centre is available and they’re looking at a two-tothree week wait, and in three weeks, that moment has passed. So, they’ll come in here, stay with us, and they will already start the program so that when they go to treatment, their bodies are already used to getting up early and going to sleep at night.” Piikani elder Peter Strikes with A Gun welcomed everyone and opened with a traditional Blackfoot prayer for the Iinii Healing House staff. The building was used prior as a haven for Piikani youth before The Piikani Nation Counselling Services took over to renovate for the Iinii Healing House. “I would like to congratulate this team; this is part of a very important turning point of any Native community. This is the time on how we can help each other and this is a very historic building,” said Pikanii elder Strikes with A Gun. A traditional Buffalo song, conducted by Ronnie Small Legs, Iinii Healing House employee, was shared with the staff and 13
guests before the ribbon-cutting ceremony began. Dr. Samantha Myhr from the medical clinic in Pincher Creek was invited by Stump to tour the new facility for recovering Piikani members. The Piikani Counselling Services have developed a close relationship with the associate clinic for its members on reserve. “It has been an amazing partnership and it’s been so amazing what you guys have done with this building. I know the opioid crisis needs no introduction, everyone here I’m sure has been touched by it and we all have in some way or another,” said Dr. Myhr. Councilor Riel Provost-Houle, who was present for the ribbon cutting ceremony on behalf of Pikanii Chief & Council, shared his thoughts on the development: “I am pretty impressed,” he said of the facility and the up-coming work involved. “We are going to pioneer our way through this opioid epidemic.”
Story by Zane Medicine Crane
TSINIKSSINI February 2019
BRUISED HEAD RECOGNIZED AS AN HONOR OFFICER IN EDMONTON BY ARMY CADET LEAGUE OF CANADA A tribal member, employed with the Kainai Child Protection department and a longserving leader of the Kainai Cadets, was recognized by the Army Cadet League of Canada for her dedicated contribution to the youth of the Blood reserve. Capt. Susan Bruised Head, whose involvement with the local cadets for the past eleven years, received her award as the 2019 Honour Officer for the Southern Zone. “I was very surprised when I heard the news about the award,” she said. “It is always an honor to be recognized for something I really enjoy. I’m really proud of our cadets for their commitment in representing the Blood Tribe.”
The Cadet Program is open to all Canadian youth from the ages of 12 to 18 regardless of income, race, religion, culture or other socio-economic factors. The program embraces Canada’s multiculturalism and offers young Canadians opportunities to interact with youth from other cultures. This award compliments other awards she has received including the Commanding Officer’s Commendation in 2011 and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2013. Bruised Head encourages the youths between the ages of 12-18 to come out to the free program offered in the community. The cadets meet every Thursday at 6:30 – 9 p.m. at the old Saipoyi gymnasium.
Kara Hughes, President, Army Cadet League Southern Zone, had high praise for Bruised Head’s continued efforts and dedication toward her group of cadets. “I have had the honor of knowing Capt. Bruised Head, and I firmly believe she is a marble,” she said. “Already impressive with all she has done for her corp. for all these years. She did all her work with enthusiasm and the generosity she is known for.” During the luncheon at the Chateau Louis Hotel and Convention Center in Edmonton on February 23, 2019, Bruised Head was called to the podium where she received recognition as an Honour Officer representing the Southern Zone of Alberta. “After hearing the kind words from President Hughes, it was only then I realized just how much work and dedication I have put into my work as leader of the cadets,” she said. “I really felt honored to be recognized for my commitment to our youth in Canada.” The Mission of the Army Cadet League of Canada, a civilian non–profit charitable organization, is committed to supporting the Army Cadets by working in partnership with local communities and the Canadian Forces in the development of policies and methods for achieving the aims and objectives of the Canadian Cadet Movement in general and the Royal Canadian Army Cadets in particular.
Capt. Susan Bruised Head accepts prestigious award.
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Story by Tom Russell
TSINIKSSINI February 2019
BRIEFING NOTES RED CROW COMMUNITY COLLEGE CAPITAL PROJECT History of Red Crow Community College • Became the First Tribal College in Canada in 1995 • Development of Culturally based curriculum through all program courses • August 14, 2015 – Red Crow Community College destroyed by fire. • Now utilizing the Old Saipoyi School in Standoff, AB • Rebuilding of documents and archives • Continuing the creation of new programs • Satellite Campus established in 2003. • Current Campus located at 450 31st N, Lethbridge, AB. Red Crow Community College understands that to increase Indigenous participation in the workforce, better methods are needed to improve recruitment, retention and skill development. To that end, the College is proposing to develop a strong educational presence on Nation lands to support the educational, social and cultural needs of students, thereby improving educational success and outcomes. Our existing nonacademic and proposed academic programs including a 2+2 with other Campus Alberta institutions are, and will continue to, contribute and enhance economic diversification, build a skilled workforce, increase social innovation and contribute to the cultural prosperity and identity of the Kainai Nation and our People. Building Initiative This approximately 11,090 square metre facility will allow the College to deliver new courses and programs in collaboration with other Campus Alberta partners. It will support the long-term enrollment projections of 1,100 - 1,200 FLE’s within the next 20-years. Our Board of Governors has established a project budget envelope of $60 million. • An investment by Red Crow of $8 million represents 13 percent of the total project costs. • An investment from the community of $12 million 20% from contributions from the community and investors • An investment of $20 million secured from the Blood Tribal Council represents 33 percent of the total project costs. • Application to Investing in Canada Infrastructure program for $20 million represents 33% of project costs Support Chief and Council - Large supporters of Red Crow Community College, hoping to invest $20 million after a positive ratification vote on March 11, 2019. - Hope to see the college offer and grant full degree programs and eventually move towards university status - Elders will be utilized to help community identity and culture
• Every learner understands their culture. • Elders play a key role in education and training. • Partnership and strong relationship with Campus Alberta where Red Crow has an opportunity to contribute and add-value. • Stable funding so long-term planning can be implemented. • Wrap around services are available to those who need them. • Better life for families. • Fully employed and no dependence on Welfare Student Testimonial A new building will help with more room to study, work, and for more students to attend. (RCCC students) The new facility will help improve our learning in a more dependable building. (RCCC student) Having a new building would give more classroom space, so we are not so constricted in every class with so many students. (RCCC students) A new building means a proper science lab, lunch room where students can eat, bigger library with more extensive resources. (RCCC student) With a new building, elders would have a space to do their day to day teaching and advising to students. (RCCC students)
Elders - See the college as a place where culture can be implemented and experienced everyday - Support for students though culture and language Community - Partnerships with other department such as Health and Blood Tribe Police Comprehensive Institutional Plan (CIP) • An Indigenized curriculum. • Every learner is funded. • Every learner has equal opportunity to access educational opportunities. • Every learner has more choice. 15
Story by Red Crow College