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Constance Lake culture camp has students learning traditional skills PAGE 11 Vol. 39 No. 37
Youth centre to help northern students in Thunder Bay PAGE 12 9,300 copies distributed $1.50
November 8, 2012
www.wawataynews.ca
Northern Ontario’s First Nation Voice since 1974
KI youth bring message of hope on Ontario tour
The peoples’ choice
Shawn Bell Wawatay News
Nadya Kwandibens/Special to Wawatay News
Thunder Bay singer-songwriter Shy-Anne Hovorka raked in six Aboriginal Peoples Choice music awards in Winnipeg last week, including female entertainer of the year, best music video and best country album. See story on page 10.
Elton Beardy is a young man, only recently graduated from high school. But he already speaks with an air of wisdom, of experience gained through seeing so many challenges and staying strong. Over the next two weeks Beardy is speaking for his community of Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug (KI) in a number of southern Ontario cities, along with five other youth who know the reality of growing up in the northern First Nation. Despite the challenges he has faced, Beardy does not speak with bitterness about the conditions that youth from KI experience. He is bringing a message of hope to the south, a message of unity. “There is still hope for change. What happened in the past, we can move forward from,” Beardy said. “If we can educate ourselves about each other, if we can come to a common understanding with a common goal for
change, there can still be harmony.” Beardy and the other youth from KI are part of a speaking tour that starts in Toronto on Nov. 8. The tour is based around the film 3rd World Canada, the 2010 documentary on living conditions and suicides in KI, told through the stories of youth and children in the community. The seeds of the current tour sprouted during screenings in Thunder Bay and Ottawa in 2010, when the youth from KI realized that their stories were having not only an impact on the audiences who watched the film, but on their families in KI and on themselves. “During the screening in Ottawa, when I looked out to the audience, you could see how it affected them,” Beardy said. “And just hearing the positive response we got from the community members about how they feel about the film, the experience really changed me. I can definitely say that this film could act as a catalyst for change in peoples lives as well, not just as nations but as individuals.” See KI youth on page 3
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Wawatay News
NOVEMBER 8, 2012
WRN is broadcast on 89.9 FM in Sioux Lookout and 106.7 FM in Timmins and to many community-based affiliated radio stations. WRN is also distributed nationally on Bell TV Channel 962.
Options for Education Now accepting applications for Personal Support Worker Program January 2013 We recognize our students are often employed full-time or reside in Northern and remote communities. Our special delivery methods will allow you to remain employed and live in your home community for the duration of the program and earn your credentials. We will be offering the following programs through a blended delivery format (e.g. on-campus sessions, tele/video conferences, distance education). This program is delivered in partnership with an Ontario college. This means that you will receive a level of education that is equivalent to, and even exceeds that found in mainstream schools and you will graduate with a college diploma or certificate! Our staff and instructors have a passion for teaching and supporting First Nations students.
Funding is available for tuition and books. For more information contact: Lorrie Deschamps, Community Liaison & Student Recruitment Officer 3-106 Centennial Square, Thunder Bay, Ontario P7E 1H3 Toll Free: 1-866-636-7454 | Ph: 807-626-1880 | E: info@oshki.ca
www.oshki.ca
A New Beginning
ᐧᐊᐧᐊᑌ ᐊᒋᒧᐧᐃᓇᐣ
THIS
WEEK IN
ᑭᒋᓇᒣᑯᓯᑊ ᐅᐡᑲᑎᓴᐠ ᐸᐸᒥ ᑭᐅᑫᐊᐧᐠ ᔕᐊᐧᓄᐠ ᐣᑯᑕᐧᓱ ᐅᐡᑲᑎᓴᐠ ᑭᒋᓇᒣᑯᓯᐱᐠ ᐁᐅᐣᒋᐊᐧᐨ ᐸᐸᒥ ᑭᐅᑫᐊᐧᐠ ᐣᑯᑕᐧᓱ ᐅᑌᓇᐠ ᐁᐸᐸᒥ ᑎᐸᒋᒧᑕᐊᐧᐊᐧᐨ ᔕᐊᐧᓄᐠ ᐅᐣᑌᕑᐃᔪ ᑲᑲᐯᔑᐊᐧᐨ ᐊᓂᐣ ᐁᔑᒥᓴᐁᐧᐣᑕᒧᐊᐧᐨ ᒥᓇ ᐁᔑᐸᑯᓭᓂᒧᐊᐧᐨ ᒋᔭᓂᓯᓭᓂᐠ ᐅᑕᔑᑫᐃᐧᓂᐊᐧᐠ ᐊᓂᓂᑲᐣ. ᐅᐸᐸᒥᔭᐃᐧᓂᐊᐧ ᑲᔦ ᑕᐊᐧᐸᐣᑕᐦᐃᐁᐧᐊᐧᐠ ᒪᓯᓇᑌᓯᒋᑫᐃᐧᓂ ᑲᑭ ᒪᓯᓇᑌᔑᒥᐣᑕᐧ ᐯᔑᐠ ᑎᐯᐣᒋᑫᐃᐧᐣ ᐃᒪ ᑭᒋᓇᒣᑯᓯᐱᐠ ᑲᑭᐊᓂᒥᐦᐃᑯᐊᐧᐨ ᓂᓯᑎᓱᐃᐧᓂ. ᐁᑲᐧ ᒥᓇ ᐅᑯᐁᐧᓂᐊᐧᐠ ᐅᐡᑲᑎᓴᐠ ᑕᑎᐸᒋᒧᐊᐧᐠ ᑎᐱᓇᐁᐧ ᐅᑎᐸᒋᒥᑎᓱᐃᐧᓂᐊᐧ ᑫᐱᑲᓇᐊᐧᐸᒥᑯᐊᐧᐨ, ᐁᐃᐧᐅᐣᒋ ᐃᐧᒋᑐᐊᐧᐨ ᒋᓂᓯᑕᐁᐧᓂᒥᑎᓇᓂᐊᐧᐠ ᑲᐊᓂᔑᓂᓂᐃᐧᐊᐧᐨ ᒥᓇ ᐸᑲᐣ ᑲᐅᐣᑕᑲᓀᓯᐊᐧᐨ.
KI youth heading on tour Six youth from Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug (KI) have embarked on a six-city tour to share their dreams and aspirations for the future of their community with people in southern Ontario. The tour includes showing of the 3rd World Canada film that documented the story of one KI family’s struggle with suicide. The youth will also share their personal stories with audiences, in an effort to help build understanding between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people.
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ᐅᐡᑭ ᐅᓇᑕᒪᑫᐃᐧᐣ ᑕᐅᐣᒋ ᐃᓇᒧᒋᑲᑌ ᐃᐡᑯᑌᐃᐧᑕᐸᓂᒥᑲᓇ ᐱᐊᐧᐱᑯᑲᓂᐠ ᑭᑲᑫᐧᑌᓇᓂᐊᐧᐣ ᒋᐅᔑᒋᑲᑌᐠ ᒉᒥᐢ ᐯ ᐊᔕᐊᐧᒧᒋᑫᐃᐧᐣ ᒥᓇ ᒋᐅᔑᒋᑲᑌᐠ ᐃᐡᑯᑌᐃᐧᑕᐸᓂ ᒥᑲᓇᑫᐃᐧᐣ ᒋᐃᓇᒧᒋᑲᑌᐠ ᑲᐃᐧᐃᔑ ᐱᐊᐧᐱᑯᑲᓂᐊᐧᐠ ᐃᒪ ᒋᐅᒋ ᐊᓂᑯᑕᒧᒋᑲᑌ ᔕᐊᐧᓄᐠ ᒋᐅᐣᑕᑕᒧᐠ ᑲᑫᐧᔑᐣᑭᐡᑭᑲᑌ ᒋᐅᒋ ᐃᐧᒋᐦᐃᐁᐧᓭᐠ ᑭᐁᐧᑎᓄᐠ ᐅᐣᑌᕑᐃᔪ ᑭᒋᐊᓄᑭᐃᐧ ᒪᒋᑕᐃᐧᓇᐣ ᒋᐅᒋ ᐱᒋᐊᐸᒋᒋᑲᑌᑭᐣ. ᐅᓄᐁᐧᓂᐊᐧᐣ ᐅᓀᐣᑕᒧᐃᐧᓇᐣ ᑲᑭᓇᓇᑲᑕᐁᐧᒋᑲᑌᑭᐣ ᒋᑭ ᐊᐣᒋᐸᑭᑎᓂᑲᑌᑭᐸᐣ ᐅᐣᑌᕑᐃᔪ ᑭᐁᐧᑎᓄᐠ ᐱᒥᔭᐃᐧ ᑲᑦᐸᓂ ᐃᒪ
WAWATAY
ᑲᐅᒋ ᒪᒪᐃᐧ ᑎᐯᐣᑕᑲᐧᐠ ᒉᒥᐢ ᐯ ᐱᒪᐦᐅᑕᓱᐃᐧᐣ, ᐁᑲᐧ ᐊᐱᐣ ᒋᓇᓇᑕᐃᐧ ᔓᓂᔭᐁᐧᐊᐧᐨ ᒋᐅᔑᑐᐊᐧᐨ ᐃᐡᑯᑌᐃᐧᑕᐸᓂ ᒥᑲᓇᑫᐃᐧᓂ ᐃᒪ ᓇᑭᓇ ᒋᐃᓇᒧᓂᐠ ᐱᐊᐧᐱᑯᑲᓂᐠ. ᑭᐃᑭᑐᐊᐧᐠ ᒪᐡᑫᑯᐊᐧᐠ ᐅᑭᒪᑲᓇᐠ ᒋᐃᐧᒋᑲᐸᐃᐧᑕᒧᐊᐧᐨ ᐅᐁᐧᓂ, ᐁᑲᐧ ᒥᓇ ᑲᐅᑭᒪᐃᐧᐨ ᐃᒪ ᐱᒪᐦᐅᑕᓱᐃᐧ ᐱᒧᒋᑫᐃᐧᓂᐠ ᑭᐃᑭᑐ ᐊᔕ ᐁᑭᓇᑭᐡᑲᐊᐧᐨ ᐊᑯᑭ ᒥᓇ ᐁᐧᐱᑫᐧ ᐊᓂᔑᓂᓂᐊᐧᐠ ᐅᐁᐧᓂ ᐅᒋ.
‘New deal’ promotes Ring of Fire railroad A proposal to create a James Bay port authority and build a railway linking the Ring of Fire to the southern rail system is being encouraged as a way to keep northern Ontario infrastructure in public hands. The idea includes transferring the Ontario Northern Transportation Company (ONTC) to the publically-owned James Bay Ports and Trustee Corporation, and then getting financing to build a railway from Nakina to the Ring of Fire. The idea has support of Mushkegowuk Tribal Council, and the CEO of the port corporation said he has had discussions with Marten Falls and Webequie.
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ᑲᐧᐣᐢᑎᐣᐢ ᓴᑲᐃᑲᓂᐠ ᑭᐸᑭᑎᓂᑲᑌ ᐊᓂᔑᓂᓂᐃᐧ ᑭᑭᓄᐦᐊᒪᑫᐃᐧᐣ ᐃᐡᑯᓄᑲᒥᑯᐠ ᐊᓂᔑᓂᓂᐃᐧ ᑭᑭᓄᐦᐊᒪᑫᐃᐧᐣ ᑭᐸᑭᑎᓂᑲᑌ ᐁᑭ ᐃᐡᑯᓄᐦᐃᐣᑕᐧ ᐅᑎᐡᑯᓂᐠ ᑲᐧᐣᐢᑎᐣᐢ ᓴᑲᐃᑲᓂᐠ ᒋᑭᑫᐣᑕᒧᐊᐧᐨ ᐊᓂᐣ ᐁᑐᒋᑲᑌᐠ ᑲᓄᒋᒧᓭᐧᓇᓂᐊᐧᐠ ᒥᓇ ᑲᓇᓇᑕᐃᐧᐱᓀᐁᐧᓇᓂᐊᐧᐠ ᐁᑲᐧ ᒥᓇ ᑲᓄᒋᓇᒣᑯᓭᐧᓇᓂᐊᐧᐠ. ᐅᑎᐡᑯᓂᐠ ᑭᑕᑭᐧᐊᐧᐠ ᐃᒪ ᒪᒪᐤᒪᑕᐊᐧ ᑭᑭᓄᐦᐊᒪᑫᐃᐧᑲᒥᐠ ᐊᓂᔑᓂᓂᐃᐧ ᑭᑭᓄᐦᐊᒪᑫᐃᐧᓂᐠ. ᐅᑭᒥᑲᓇᐊᐧ ᐁᑭᒥᓄᓭᓂᐠ ᐅᐁᐧᓂ ᑲᑭᑐᑕᒧᐊᐧᐨ, ᐁᑲᐧ ᑕᐡ ᒣᑲᐧᐨ ᐃᒪ ᐃᐡᑯᓄᑲᒥᑯᐠ ᐅᑐᓇᑐᓇᐊᐧ ᐊᐧᓂᐦᐃᑫᐃᐧ ᑭᑭᓄᐦᐊᒪᑫᐃᐧᓂ ᒋᑭᑭᓄᐦᐊᒪᐃᐧᐣᑕᐧ ᐅᑎᐡᑯᓂᐠ.
Constance Lake learning cultural activities in school
A cultural camp for students of Constance Lake First Nation had them learning to hunt moose and partridge and fish for lake trout. The students were part of Mamawmatawa Holistic Education Centre’s cultural day camp. Since the success of the day camp, the school is now implementing a trapper’s course for the students.
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ᐅᐡᑲᑎᓯᐃᐧᑲᒥᐠ ᑭᑕᐃᐧᓂᑲᑌ ᑕᐣᑐᕑ ᐯ ᑭᐊᔓᑕᒪᑫᒪᑲᐣ ᒋᑕᑲᐧᐠ ᐃᒪ ᑭᐁᐧᑎᓄᐠ ᑲᐱᐅᐣᑐᓭᐊᐧᐨ ᐅᑎᐡᑯᓂᐠ ᑲᐱᐃᐡᑯᓄᐃᐧᐊᐧᐨ ᑕᐣᑐᕑ ᐯ ᑫᐃᔑᒥᑲᒧᐊᐧᐨ ᐊᓱᐡᑲᒪᑯᐃᐧᐣ ᒥᓇ ᑫᐃᔕᐊᐧᐨ ᐊᐱ ᑲᐃᐡᑲᐧ ᐃᐡᑯᓄᐊᐧᐨ ᑲᐅᓇᑯᔑᓂᐠ, ᐅᐁᐧ ᐅᐡᑭ ᐅᐡᑲᑎᓯᐃᐧᑲᒥᐠ ᑭᑕᐃᐧᓂᑲᑌ ᑕᐣᑐᕑ ᐯ ᔕᐊᐧᓄᐠ ᐃᓀᑫ ᒣᑫᐧᐅᑌᓇᐠ ᐃᒪ ᑭᒋᐊᑕᐁᐧᐃᐧᑲᒥᑯᐠ ᒣᑲᐧᐨ ᑲᐡᑲᑎᓄᐱᓯᑦ 1. ᐊᑯᓇᐠ 2000 ᑲᐊᐦᑭᐊᐧᐠ ᐊᔕ ᓂᓴᐧᓱ ᐊᓂᔑᓇᐯ ᐊᐢᑭ ᐅᐡᑲᑎᓴᐠ ᑭᐱᐅᐣᒋᐊᐧᐊᐧᓂᐦᐊᐊᐧᐠ ᒣᑲᐧᐨ ᐁᐃᐡᑯᓄᐊᐧᐸᐣ ᑕᐣᑐᕑ ᐯ ᐅᑌᓇᐠ ᒥᐦᐅᐁᐧ ᑲᑭᒥᑯᐣᒋᑲᑌᐠ ᒣᑲᐧᐨ ᑲᑕᐃᐧᓂᑲᑌᐠ ᐅᐡᑲᑎᓯᐃᐧᑲᒥᐠ. ᒐᐧᕑᑎᐣ ᐊᐧᐸᐢ ᑲᐃᓇᑲᓄᐸᐣ ᐅᑯᒪᐣ ᑭᐃᑭᑐᐊᐧᐣ ᐅᐁᐧ ᐅᐡᑲᑎᓯᐃᐧᑲᒥᐠ ᐅᑲᐅᒋᐃᐧᒋᐃᑯᓇᐊᐧ ᐅᐡᑲᑎᓴᐠ ᑐᑲᐣ ᐅᓯᓴᐣ ᐁᑲ ᓇᐣᑕ ᒋᐅᒋ ᐱᐦᒋᐊᐃᐣᑎᐊᐧᐨ.
Youth centre opens in Thunder Bay Promising to be a place where northern students who are attending school in Thunder Bay can find support and a place to be after school, a new youth centre opened in Thunder Bay’s south-side Victoriaville Mall on Nov. 1. The seven NAN youth who have died while attending school in Thunder Bay since 2000 were brought up during the opening of the centre. The late Jordan Wabasse’s grandmother said the new centre can help youth like her grandson by providing them with programs and activities. Page 12
Thank You, Airlines! Your fast, courteous delivery of Wawatay News to our northern communities is appreciated.
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Wawatay News
NOVEMBER 8, 2012
3
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MAP YOUR FUTURE! Confidential, Respectful, Reliable The uses for Geographic Information System (GIS) are unlimited. GIS enables you to better plan and manage the information around you. It simplifies decision making by providing quick and accurate information that can be used in: Garnet Angeconeb’s new website documents his residential school story.
Submitted image
The story of one man’s residential school journey
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‘I’d give anything if I could turn back the clock’ Rick Garrick Wawatay News
Lac Seul’s Garnet Angeconeb is looking to create more awareness of the residential school issue through the launch of a new website — www.garnetsjourney.com. “Even though it’s been in the news and an issue that is well known, there is still a lot of work to do to create awareness,� said Angeconeb, an Aboriginal Healing Foundation board member who disclosed in the 1990s the sexual abuse he suffered in residential school. “I bet you that the average Canadian you meet on the street probably doesn’t know anything about the legacy of the Indian residential school system, nor have they ever met a survivor of the system in person.� Angeconeb is also looking for people to use the website to engage and dialogue about the residential school issue, whether they are lawyers working in the court system, healthcare professionals working with residential school survivors and descendants of survivors or anyone who is affected by the residential school legacy. “It is also for young people so they understand their history,� Angeconeb said. “I think it’s good for all Canadians so that we know our collective path and so we
can better understand one another in terms of our relations in Canada between Aboriginal and non-aboriginal people.� Through a combination of journalism and oral history, the website provides an opportunity for Canadians to meet a residential school survivor and hear his life story in his own words. “We engaged Ashley Wright, a journalist, to gather stories or to document my story by me telling my history or my life story in relation to the residential school and how it affected me, my family and my community,� Angeconeb said. Angeconeb first met Wright in 1989 at CBQ Radio in Thunder Bay. Wright has since covered many First Nations stories and is now a journalism instructor at Algonquin College and Carleton University. “Many Canadians have never met a person who went to residential school, but after you visit this site, you’ll feel you know Garnet personally,� Wright said. The website begins with a 21-minute mini-documentary about Angeconeb’s journey from the trap line to residential school to today. “I know that this is totally impossible, but I would give anything if I could turn the clock back,� Angeconeb said
in the mini-documentary. “And continue on from where the residential school system interrupted a way of life. I would give anything to get that back.� About 150,000 First Nations and Aboriginal children were taken from their families during the 1800s and 1900s by the federal government and sent to residential schools operated across Canada by a number of Christian denominations, including the Catholic, Anglican, United and Presbyterian churches. “We hear many people say get over it already, get over the residential school, move on,� Angeconeb said. “Well, it’s not that simple. One of the (mini-documentary’s) purposes is to help create that awareness that the legacy of the residential school lives on today with the younger people.� Angeconeb said the “bug� that destroyed the souls of many of the residential school survivors is still alive in terms of its intergenerational affects in the Aboriginal community. “We are working at healing, we are working at restoring what we lost in terms of our ways, our values, our thinking,� Angeconeb said. “It’s called healing, and healing leads to reconciliation, so the purpose of the (mini-documentary) is to point those things out.�
KI youth present 3rd World Canada film
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Filmmaker Andree Cazabon, the director of 3rd World Canada, said the tour is not only about educating non-Aboriginal Canadians about the conditions of northern First Nations. It also intends to encourage Canadians to get involved in helping First Nations people affect change. “For a long time the dialogue has been between First Nations and the government,� Cazabon said. “If the conversation starts to include mainstream Canadians as well as First Nations people, if Canadian people help to wish away the third world conditions, maybe change can happen.� Cazabon has already seen the power that stories of the youth from KI can hold. During the screening of the film in Thunder Bay and Ottawa two years ago, the standing ovations that the youth received and the responses from the audience in both places has her convinced that change is possible and that it will be driven by the youth. “When you offer them an opportunity to speak, young people are not there to com-
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Simply call in and find a caring person to talk to in confidence. Submitted photo
Youth from KI met then-Governor Governor Michaelle Jean after the screening of 3rd World Canada in Ottawa in 2010. plain or point the finger. Their message is one of peace, of hope, of journeying together,� Cazabon said. “That moves a lot of people when they see that kind of spirit shine through the youth.� For Beardy, the tour is more than just a chance to bring his community’s story to others in Canada. It is also an important step for the youth of KI to take on the responsibility of representing their community. “It’s an important time in
that now our children, our youth will take forward the future of our traditions, of our culture, our language and our faith,� Beardy said. “A lot of what we do relies on the strength of our youth. And it is not only for ourselves that we do these things, but it is for others. That is how it is in our tradition. It must be for others why we do things and it must be sustainable for seven generations, for our children and their children thereafter.�
1 855 554 HEAL www.talk4healing.com
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Wawatay News
NOVEMBER 8, 2012
ᐧᐊᐧᐊᑌ ᐊᒋᒧᐧᐃᓇᐣ
From the Wawatay archives 16-5th Avenue North P.O. Box 1180 Sioux Lookout, ON P8T 1B7 Serving the First Nations in Northern Ontario since 1974. Wawatay News is a politically independent weekly newspaper published by Wawatay Native Communications Society.
ᓂᐢᑕᑦ ᑲᑭᒪᑕᓄᑲᑌᐠ 1974 ᐁᐅᒋᐊᓄᑲᑌᑭᐣ ᑭᐧᐁᑎᓄᐠ ᐅᐣᑌᕑᐃᔪ ᑕᐃᑦᔑᑫᐧᐃᓇᐣ. ᑕᓱᓂᔓᐱᒥᑯᓇᑲ ᐅᔑᒋᑲᑌ ᐧᐊᐧᐊᑌ ᐊᓂᔑᓂᓂᐧᐃ ᐊᒋᒧᐧᐃᓇᐣ ᒥᓇ ᑲᐧᐃᐣ ᐅᓇᔓᐧᐁᐧᐃ ᑲᓇᐧᐊᐸᒋᑫᐧᐃᓂᐠ ᒋᐃᔑ ᐸᐸᒥᓯᒪᑲᐠ ᐧᐊᐧᐊᑌ ᐊᒋᒧᐧᐃᓂᑫᐧᐃᓇᐣ. CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER David Neegan
Commentary
Being a human book Lenny Carpenter WAWATAY NEWS
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middle-aged blond woman approaches me. She introduces herself as Margaret, shakes my hand, and sits on a chair across from mine. I’m a midwife and deal a lot with Aboriginal families up north, she says. She noticed families from up north are tight and supportive, especially with extended family. I wish we had that down here, she says, instead of every family unit fending for themselves. Then she unloaded the first question: “What other things do they have up north that you wish we could have down here?” I never met Margaret until today. She knows a little about me but I know nothing about her. But she is here to ask me some of the most personal questions about my life; and I answer them as truthfully and sincerely as I can. Our interaction was part of the Human Library, an event held Oct. 27 and organized by CBC Radio Thunder Bay in partnership with the Thunder Bay Public Library. According the Human Library Organization website, the event is “designed to promote dialogue, reduce prejudices and encourage understanding.” I was among 10 human books, people of various backgrounds and walks of life which included a young Muslim woman, a police officer, a litigation lawyer, a tattoo apprentice, an Ojibwe Elder, a transgender person, a recovering addict, a woman living with a disability and one living with a mental illness. I was contacted by CBC and was asked to be the “young Aboriginal from a northern community.” Readers, like Margaret (not her real name), were members of the public who wanted to learn more about any of us and were free to ask us any questions about our lives. So I sat in a chair at the Waverly library in Thunder Bay as readers signed me out for a 20-minute conversation. Margaret was the first reader. While I did not necessarily prepare for what questions I would face, I was completely thrown off by her question. It was a very insightful and intriguing question that I had never considered. In essence, it was: what positive qualities do we as First Nations have that non-Natives down south do not? (My response: a connection to the land and our storytelling traditions). Then she talked about the Six Nations in southern Ontario: do we in the north have a connection to them? (My response: there are some cultural and socio-economic similarities, but it’s like asking a German if they have a connection with the Portuguese).
Margaret was intrigued by my responses. She left after our session, saying she had to pick up her child. I did not see her again that day, so I was the only book she spoke with. A middle-aged man signed me out next. He asked a little about myself – the usually small talk like what I do, where I’m from and all that. So, he said, tell me something. Like what, I asked. I don’t know, he said. What should I know about the people in the north? That was the way a lot of the readers put it: not indigenous, Aboriginal, Native, First Nations or any of the other labels, but some variation of “the people up north.” (I did get asked once which term I preferred. For me, I said, Cree.) A couple that moved to Canada from the United Kingdom had only been in Thunder Bay for a week. Like the man before, they asked a question from which I did not know where to begin: what do we need to know about the racial issues in the region? A self-described first generation Canadian woman signed me out next. Her parents hailed from Italy and Poland. She asked if I spoke my language. A little, I said. My parents starting speaking English to me when I started school. Ah, it was the same for me with Polish and Italian, she said. I have always felt a connection to your people. She said she was discriminated against and her family was called “DP’s”, a derogatory term for displaced person(s) since her parents had emigrated. They were also forced to go to separate schools. Perhaps what was most interesting about the whole Human Library experience were the types of questions. In preparation for the event, CBC aired and posted an audio clip of myself describing my first goose kill. Several readers said they heard the clip but never asked me anything related to hunting or my cultural practices. Aside from the general questions about what I do and where I am from, most questions were not about myself. Instead, the readers hoped to gain a sense of what Aboriginal people as a whole felt about certain things. I think by phrasing in such a way, it made it easier for them to ask a stranger questions. If a question was personal, like if I date non-Native people, they often prefaced it with “I don’t mean to offend you…” or some variation. It was the first time the Human Library took place in this city. I agreed to be a book because I hoped to change misconceptions and mistruths about First Nations people, especially in a city with racism issues like Thunder Bay. “You’ve really given me some insight,” Margaret said as we ended our conversation. So from the first reader, taking part in the Human Library felt like it was worth the while.
Wawatay News archives
Pikangikum, February 1981, Classroom.
He dreams himself Richard Wagamese ONE NATIVE LIFE
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owadays we live in the mountains of the BC Interior. My wife and I moved here full-time in 2007 after two frustrating years commuting from the Lower mainland. It’s hard to cope with a city when your heart resides in the open places. So we made the move permanent as soon as we could. Our home is a small rancher-style house that overlooks a lake that’s snagged between clefts of mountains. The view is astounding and to be able to write here is a pleasure and a tremendous gift. This is my home – this red house with blue shutters and a white door. It took me a long time to find it. Through the years I spent a lot of time on the road, drifting from job to job, looking for the one place in Creation that said ‘haven.’ Here, where deer, coyotes, bears, bobcats, and a wolf I only ever saw the paw print of, prowl the edges of our yard I write and
find corners of my heart I never knew existed. My wife and I are happy here. It is home. But my birth home is north of Kenora. Even though I’ve never lived at White Dog, I call it my home wherever I go. I’ve visited a handful of time s through the years and each time I’ve carried away a small piece of my identity. To me it’s a touchstone to my culture, history and traditions. In that, it’s important to me, as all homes should be. Here though, my life eases itself into fullness. I work well here. The land is mere steps away and the dog and I enjoy our daily walks up the timber road or around the curve of the lake. To feel the land around you is amazing every time and it’s no different, really from how it feels in northern Ontario or any other place that’s touched me with its magic. My elders say that we dream ourselves into being. That sounds powerfully esoteric but it isn’t nearly as hard to decipher as you might think. It simply means we have the ability to become whomever we choose to become. All of us. There’s no limit to our human potential and there’s no limit to where our spirits can choose to go.
Hot on the heels of the power of choice is the power of allowing. We Ojibway have a phrase for that – yuh-gotta-wanna. For me, the great fact is that I would be Ojibway wherever I went. It’s just here in this idyllic setting where I choose to express myself and where I allow magic to happen. Within me are the legends and teachings and philosophy of my people and I carry them proudly. Not a day goes by that I am not thankful for the guidance of those things nor a day when they do not affect the way I travel through that day. I’ve walked the shores of the Winnipeg River. I’ve visited sacred sites and ceremonial places. I’ve trekked to the remote sites where my family camped to trap and fish when I was born. That territory marked me and it is special to me. To go there is to feel a connection I have never found an appropriate word for in English. To say it is spiritual somehow reduces it. It’s spiritual, emotional, mental and physical all at the same time. I don’t know whether I really get homesick. The way my life went, I was in and out of a lot of homes as a kid and teenager.
As a young adult I never really felt at home until I came here. I do get lonesome for the land though. Stuck in cities as I was for so many years I felt a melancholy I never could figure out. Once I walked out into the bush again or stood at the edge of a northern lake I understood what it was I’d been missing. We dream ourselves. I dream of those things and those places where my life began. Sometimes I see myself walking there. Sometimes I see myself surrounded by people I never got a chance to know. But I always awake to the silence of our home in the mountains and I am always grateful to be here. There is no other place for me. Within each of us is the residue of the places we come from. We carry the information of our cultures and our histories within us like latent genes. When me move, when we choose to live somewhere other than our traditional homes, those are the things that allow us to dream ourselves into fullness. Our touchstones. The feel of home we carry between our ribs. It’s not an Ojibway thing. It’s a human one.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER David Neegan davidn@wawatay.on.ca
ART DIRECTOR Roxann Shapwaykeesic, RGD roxys@wawatay.on.ca
TRANSLATORS Vicky Angees vickya@wawatay.on.ca
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Matthew Bradley matthewb@wawatay.on.ca
CONTRIBUTORS Daniel Tait Patrik Lowen Joyce Atcheson Richard Wagamese
CONTACT US Sioux Lookout Office Hours: 8:30-5:00 CST Phone: ....................737-2951 Toll Free: .....1-800-243-9059 Fax: ...............(807) 737-3224 .............. (807) 737-2263
Thunder Bay Office Hours: 8:30-4:30 EST Phone: ...................344-3022 Toll Free: ..... 1-888-575-2349 Fax: ...............(807) 344-3182
EDITOR Shawn Bell shawnb@wawatay.on.ca WRITER/PHOTOGRAPHER Rick Garrick rickg@wawatay.on.ca WRITER/PHOTOGRAPHER Lenny Carpenter lennyc@wawatay.on.ca
SALES MANAGER James Brohm jamesb@wawatay.on.ca CIRCULATION Adelaide Anderson reception@wawatay.on.ca
Guest editorials, columnists and letters to the editor do not necessarily reflect the views of Wawatay News.
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Wawatay News
NOVEMBER 8, 2012
LETTERS First Nations lands cannot be sold to foreign investors Open letter to Prime Minister Stephen Harper, Re: FIPA – Financial Investment Protection Act Prime Minister Stephen Harper, As the First Nation Chief of Serpent River and as an Anishinabek Regional Grand Chief of the Lake Huron Region, I am taking this opportunity to make a set of clear statements and an advisement regarding your government’s Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement. As stated clearly by many First Nation leaders on this issue, Canada is breaching its fiduciary obligation to consult in accordance to Canada’s laws. This is a constitutional imperative. Aboriginal and Treaty Rights are the foundation of Canada’s relationship to Indigenous Peoples in this country – rejecting to meaningfully consult and engage them is an assault on the fabric of this country’s supreme law. The international community, as you know and have formally recognized, has adopted the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People. There are a clear set of articles in UNDRIP that are intended to prevent the type of unilateral action that your government is taking on a number of major policy matters and legislations. In this case trade policy with other nations; FIPA is not acceptable and conducive to the treaty relationship that this country has with First Nations. Trade and investment treaties with
other countries are a very critical and complex endeavours affecting access to lands and resources. China or any other country cannot and should not legally be granted delegated access to treaty lands that are still under current arrangements with First Nation treaties in this country. Prime Minister, FIPA not only targets the Alberta tar sands development, but major resource development in other provinces becomes subject to the protections that China has to access our territories and push development. First Nations in this country have treaties that are diverse and distinct. A blanket investment law giving access to outside foreign investment is flat out negligent. It appears that the Conservative government is disregarding the principles by which it has stated it stands upon; one of those clearly contradicts your unilateral action – human rights. Further, it should be a clear reminder that earlier this year, during the Crown First Nation Gathering, Davos Switzerland and your visit to China you were talking about economic themes and concepts that should have consistently included First Nation lands and treaty relationships. Prime Minister, it would be injudicious for this government to proceed any further with FIPA. In a recent War of 1812 Commemoration event, First Nation leaders were
invited into Rideau Hall as guests to accept medals and banners – as “allies,” Canada says. We also talked about the “Covenant Chain” that is an integral foundation in the critical legal institution that we call, the “Honour of the Crown.” We further spoke at this event and re-iterated that we must “polish the covenant chain” as it was agreed upon by the Crown and First Nations at the time of the Wampum Treaties. Prime Minister Harper, with all due respect, you are again refusing to uphold Canada’s legal duty to consult First Nations. Incursion on First Nation treaty lands and territories trade treaties with other countries will not be acceptable the Crown’s treaty partners in this country and should sharply be contested from the grassroots level to the international arena. As a First Nation member and signatory Chief of the Robinson Huron Treaty of 1850, I must firmly oppose FIPA. Further I unequivocally request that you cease advancement of this agreement, as it not only jeopardizes Canada and the provinces, it clearly contravenes existing treaty relationships with the First People in this country. Sincerely, Chief Isadore Day, Wiindawtegowinini, Serpent River First Nation
The 3rd World Canada Tour The words “3rd World Canada” should stop many mainstream Canadians in their track, or at least, give some cause to take a second look at life as they arbitrarily turn their thermostat up or down. I am not here telling you about the Walking Spirit Singers Youth Drum Group 3rd World Canada Tour because I wrote a book but since new associations have enhanced my life by cause and acquaintance. Sharing in the preparation to welcome youth ambassadors from Kitchenuhmaykoosip Inninuwug First Nation
has connected me with “light the light” people from my own community of Kingston. The phrase “light the light” used by the British Columbia Indian Residential School Survivor Society is symbolic to lighting the pathway into the hearts of people through knowledge. The light the light message: “First Nations face daunting challenges that many Canadians are unaware of. 112 First Nations communities have little or no access to clean water, while 40 percent of off-reserve Aboriginal children live in poverty.
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First Nations are experiencing 3rd world living conditions within a worldclass country. The film 3rd World Canada is a timely eye-opener into some of the living conditions present in remote indigenous communities in Canada.” This early November; 3rd World Canada tour will light the pathway to the hearts and minds of people in Thunder Bay, Toronto, Oshawa, Peterborough, Curve Lake First Nation, Tyendinaga First Nation and Kingston. Robert Wells, Author of Wawahte
WAWATAY BOOK REVIEW
Whitewash, Canada’s health care system By Joyce Atcheson Special to Wawatay News
The health care system is geared by political decisions to serve the rich. Public health policy is the making of laws designed to address needs of the entire population. For example, the law reducing smoking in public places improves health for all races, all ages regardless of income. Public exposure to second-hand smoke has ended. Elizabeth McGibbon, editor of Oppression: A Social Determinant of Health, and her 11 colleagues have written a condemning book addressing the many holes in Canada’s health care system, a system primarily focused on health for the rich. Denise Spitzer says oppression creates disease; it is written on their bodies, minds and spirits. ‘Such everyday mental stress (of racism and bigotry’s chronic and traumatic effects), for example, eventually stresses the body’s adrenal system to the point where physical symptoms, such as Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure, occur as a response to adrenal fatigue,’ she says. Addressing illnesses related to chronic oppression (e.g. assimilation) McGibbon says, pills cannot reorganize the stress of living in an oppressive society. And in a refreshing view Spitzer says ‘smoking or alcohol consumption are regarded as coping strategies, self-medication in response to the toxicity of one’s social world.’ Charmaine McPherson says human rights violations are the basis for poor health outcomes for vulnerable people
around the world but also acknowledges it takes money to address the human rights issues. Confronting the lack of public health scrutiny over negative effects of corporate profit on health and the environment McGibbon and Lars Hallstrom use the tar sands as a perfect example. It is Fort Chipewyan First Nation, downstream from the tar sands, where significant increases in cancer of the blood and lymphatic system, biliary tract and soft tissue (including lungs) occur. In a time where the tar sands industry claims to be able to restore the land to its pre-mined state, the Alberta government’s record show the reclamation of a paltry 0.2 percent of the total land mass disturbed by the mines. The destruction of 23,000 hectares of AB’s wetlands removes ecological, cultural and filtering benefits from the entire world. Globalization of health has resulted in research directed toward profitable diseases but not diseases that affect the poor. Many scholars have linked oppression with over-medication or mis-medication of marginalized peoples for the profits of huge drug companies. This book is a must-read. It depicts the risks we face depending on the government for health. Reclaiming traditional ways of living is a necessity. Oppression: A Social Determinant of Health -- Elizabeth A. McGibbon (Ed) (Fernwood Publishing, Black Point, NS; 2012; ISBN 978-1-55266-454-4 (bound), ISBN 978-1-55266-445-2 (paperback); 239 pages, $29.95)
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Wawatay News
NOVEMBER 8, 2012
ᐧᐊᐧᐊᑌ ᐊᒋᒧᐧᐃᓇᐣ
WRN is broadcast on 89.9 FM in Sioux Lookout and 106.7 FM in Timmins and to many community-based affiliated radio stations. WRN is also distributed nationally on Bell TV Channel 962.
Wawatay file photo
Verlin James of McDowell Lake, former U.S. Marine Corps rifleman, found his experience on the land was helpful during his term of service with the US Marine Corps.
On November 11 Please take a moment to honour those who have served, are currently serving and those who paid the ultimate sacriIJce for our freedom
On the land experience helped in U.S. Marine Corps Rick Garrick Wawatay News
Sarah Campbell, MPP Kenora-Rainy River 1-800-465-8501 scdryden@ndp.on.ca
McDowell Lake’s Verlin James feels his upbringing on the land was an advantage during his term of service with the U.S. Marine Corps. “Other Marines regarded me as being better than them
in skills and ability,” said the former Marine Corps rifleman and Pelican Falls graduate in an e-mail interview. “This obviously stemmed from my upbringing in the north, hunting and trapping with my father as a child. I remember once snowshoeing for many miles in the darkness after my dad’s snowmobile broke down. I must have been but seven or eight.” But James also met many other First Nations servicemen while in the Marine Corps, noting the percentage of those serving was higher than the First Nations population in the United States. “I would see quite a number of Natives all the time,” James said. “My company first sergeant was Native in fact, same with a gunnery sergeant in the recon or scout sniper platoon.” James decided to join the Marine Corps for vocational reasons, as in “the call of the warrior,” and not for financial reasons. He said most Marines join for the prestige, as the pay is low. “The feeling to join was
as strong as one feels to join the priesthood,” James said. “The Canadian Forces was not appealing to me. I felt that I had a better chance of survival going through something more difficult.” James said the recruit training process in the Marine Corps goes from 5:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., with only one hour of free time per day. “One thing that all Marines miss is the marching cadence they call sing-song, unlike the left-right-left-right cadence you hear here in Canada,” James said. “The marching cadence is sung; this cadence would be incomprehensible to most people. But the sing-song drawl you hear is something that I find myself doing very often.” James served in the boat company of his battalion, which involved training for raids in rubber zodiac boats during the middle of the night on ocean waters. “I remember the salt water in my mouth, and my knee being banged against the steel deck plate every time we hit a wave,” James said. “Also, I was
lucky being from the north since I never came down with hypothermia.” James loved the field training and boat raids, but he hated being in garrison. “Being out of the Marines, your love of it grows the longer that you’re away,” James said. “It affects your every waking hour. You never see life like a normal person, you walk differently, you’re concerned about your physical conditioning and personal appearance. You wonder why people can’t be right to the point or more disciplined.” James said most active duty Marines joined because they wanted to prove something to themselves. “You do not have to be a bodybuilder to be a Marine,” James said. “Most active duty Marines are on the skinny side. You never see an overweight Marine, muscular types are rare.” James encouraged other First Nations youth to consider the Marine Corps, noting that because boot camp is so busy most recruits do not get homesick.
NOTICE TO ALL CREDITORS AND OTHERS All claims against the estate of ELMER JAMES WYNNE late of Moosonee, Ontario, who died on or about the 12th day of January, 2012, must be filed with the undersigned personal representative on or before the 12th day of November, 2012, after which date the estate will be distributed having regard only to the claims of which the Estate Trustee then shall have notice. DATED at Cochrane, Ontario this 15th day of October, 2012. By: FRANCINE LINKLATER By her Solicitor: Stephen Beaudoin Beaudoin Boucher Barristers & Solicitors 174 - 4th Avenue, P.O. Box 1898 Cochrane, Ontario P0L 1C0
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Wawatay News
NOVEMBER 8, 2012
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Remembering a soldier’s war effort Rick Garrick Wawatay News
Shooniyaa Wa-Biitong’s Marie Seymour remembers her father, World War II veteran Peter Seymour, as a patriot who believed in his country.
“He believed it gave him a lot and he wanted to fight for his country.” – Marie Seymour of Shooniyaa Wa-Biitong
“He believed it gave him a lot and he wanted to fight for his country,” said Seymour. “But he put his family first, because he stayed here as long as he could before he joined the army because he was a provider for his family.” Seymour said her father, who passed away in 2003, had been helping look after his family after his father passed away. The Big Island band member enlisted in 1940 and landed in Normandy on July 20, 1944, where his regiment, the Lake
S
Superior Regiment Motor Battalion, fought through France, Belgium, Holland and Germany over the next 10 months. Peter Seymour received six medals for his service during the war: Medal for Service in Holland, Northwest Star for Service in France and Germany, Defense of Britain Medal, Medal for Voluntary Service, Exemplary Service Medal and Medal for Service in WWII – 1939 to 1945. The soldiers in the Lake Superior Regiment were awarded 71 decorations for their bravery during World War II, with the regiment suffering 775 casualties, including 199 dead. “He was one of the older soldiers in his regiment,” Seymour said. “He was a runner (who delivered messages) between the front and the end of the line, so he drove a motorcycle back and forth. He (also) drove a tank; he didn’t like that too well.” Seymour said her father enjoyed the structured life in the military. “He went through residential school, so he was used to being told what to do and when to do it and to take
alls First Natio F e t n la
orders,” Seymour said. “So the transition in the army — it was the same way. He just did what he was told.” Seymour said her father felt it was important to fight in the war because Canada needed to stand up to Nazi Germany’s war effort against
Britain and other European countries. “In terms of being a First Nations person, I don’t think that played a lot into dad’s decision to join,” Seymour said. “He just said it was something he had to do and he could do it. He didn’t have
a family other than his siblings and his mother. Had he had his own family, I don’t know if he would have volunteered.” While her father would talk about the places he saw during the war, Seymour said he would not talk about the
fighting. “He said, ‘that was a war I hope you never have to experience, that type of violence,’” Seymour said. “But, he said, ‘that army gave me things to see, it brought me to places I would never have gone there otherwise.’”
2013
Aboriginal Partnership Research Award
Call for Nominations The Office of Aboriginal Initiatives at Lakehead University celebrates growing partnerships between Lakehead University researchers/ research teams and Aboriginal individuals, communities, and organizations. We are currently seeking nominations for this award from members of the University and the broader communities. Nomination deadline Friday, December 14, 2012 Forms and additional details regarding award criteria are available at
aboriginalinitiatives.lakeheadu.ca Submit nominations to: Annette Schroeter, Aboriginal Research Facilitator, Office of Research email: annette.schroeter@lakeheadu.ca,
phone: 807-343-8124, fax: 807-346-7749.
48 Lakeview Road Slate Falls, ON P0V 3C0 Tel: 807-737-5700 Tel/Fax: 1-888-431-5617
Notice to Slate Falls Nation Members Slate Falls Nation Chief and Council Election 2012 Nomination Meeting Date: Friday October 26, 2012 Location: Bimaychikamah School Gym Time: 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Public Candidate Forum Date: Friday November 23, 2012 Location: Bimaychikamah School Gym Time: 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Election Day Date: Friday November 30, 2012 Location: Slate Falls Band Office Time: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm If you are a member of Slate Falls First Nation, you are entitled to a vote providing you are 18 years of age as of November 30, 2012. If you have any questions regarding the election please call Brenda Roundhead at 807 737-5700
Award Presentation (l-r) Carol Audet, Dave Fletcher, Dr. Brian Stevenson, Dr. M.A. (Peggy) Smith, Denise Golden, Beverly Sabourin, Nancy Bouchard, Dr. Rui Wang
2012 Aboriginal Partnership Research Award Winners Dr. M. A. (Peggy) Smith
Ms. Carol Audet
Ms. Denise Golden
former Policy Advisor for the Office of the Grand Chief of Nishnawbe Aski Nation
Faculty of Natural Resources Management PhD student, Faculty of Natural Resources Management
Stan Beardy
Dr. Steve Colombo
former Grand Chief Nishnawbe Aski Nation Muskrat Dam, Weagamow Lake, Pikangikum, Sandy Lake, Neskantaga, Nibinamik, Attawapiskat, Fort Albany, Kingfisher Lake, Wunnumin Lake
Ontario Forest Research Institute
Dr. Gary Bull
Faculty of Forestry, University of British Columbia
Dr. Harvey Lemelin
School of Outdoor Recreation, Parks & Tourism, Lakehead University
Aboriginal Initiatives
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Wawatay News
NOVEMBER 8, 2012
á?§á?Šá?§á?Šá‘Œ á?Šá’‹á’§á?§á?ƒá“‡á?Ł
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Manager of Education Initiatives Nishnawbe Aski Nation is seeking a highly motivated and skilled individual to join our team as the Manager of Education Initiatives. The Manager of Education Initiatives oversees the coordination of education projects designed to improve the scope and quality of education programs and services available to NAN First Nation students attending both Council Operated and Provincially Funded schools. This position is critical to the successful funding, implementation and reporting of educational initiatives and for maintaining eective liaison with participating First Nations, Tribal Councils, Education Organizations, Provincial Government representatives, and Federal Government representatives with respect to these initiatives.
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The successful candidate will possess 5+ years’ experience or equivalent related work experience in the ďŹ eld of First Nations Education, a Bachelor’s Degree or Equivalent Experience in an education or training related position, and the knowledge of First Nation education issues, challenges and delivery models. The successful candidate will possess the ability to work eectively with others, demonstrated presentation skills, proven eectiveness in project management as well as strong communication skills with proďŹ ciency in developing written communications and the development and delivery of oral presentations. This position is an integral part of the Nishnawbe Aski Nation Education Secretariat, and requires an individual who possess the ability to be both a strong leader and team player. This position will require travel, often in small aircrafts. The ability to speak read and understand Ojibwe, Oji-Cree or Cree are a strong asset. The deadline for applications is 4:00pm EST, November 12, 2012. To download the complete job description, lease visit www.nan.on.ca or contact Rod Geddes, Human Resources Assistant, at (807) 625-4948, or Ian Beardy, A/Human Resources Director, at (807) 625-4941 for more information.
Mining Essentials Program Coordinator Contract Position (6 Months) Thunder Bay, Ontario The Mining Essentials Program Coordinator is responsible for delivering and coordinating the Mining Essentials work readiness training program for First Nations. QUALIFICATIONS: • University degree or college diploma in human resources or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. • Minimum of two years’ experience in coordinating employment and training programs. • Advanced knowledge of mining industry an asset. • Advanced knowledge of apprenticeship system in Ontario an asset. DUTIES: • Undertake and coordinate the day-to-day operations of the program in accordance with the Mining Essentials training standard. • Work closely with industry partners to develop and implement training-to-employment plans. • Coordinate and chair program advisory committee meetings and report on progress and activities. • Assist in the development of training proposals and other training initiatives as needed. • Must be willing and able to travel to fly-in First Nation communities. If interested please forward your cover letter, resume and three (3) employment references to: Hiring Committee Oshki-Pimache-O-Win Education & Training Institute 106 Centennial Square, 3rd Floor Thunder Bay, ON P7E 1H3 Fax: 807-622-1818 E-mail: info@oshki.ca Closing Date: November 16, 2012 at 5:00 p.m. We sincerely appreciate the interest of all applicants; however, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
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Mining Essentials Community Coordinator Contract Position (6 Months) Webequie, Ontario The Mining Essentials Community Coordinator is responsible for undertaking and coordinating communitybased training activities and community supports for the Mining Essentials work readiness training program for First Nations. QUALIFICATIONS: • Must be a resident of Webequie First Nation. • Minimum Grade 12 or equivalent. • Must have prior experience in delivering and coordinating community-based programs and services. • Knowledge of local economic development initiatives an asset. DUTIES: • Ensure that community support exists and is sustained during the training period. • Work closely with the program coordinator to coordinate and facilitate program delivery at the community level. • Assist in program promotion and recruitment of participants. • Attend and assist with daily classes and activities. • Ability to work independently. • Must be willing and able to travel as needed. If interested please forward your cover letter, resume and three (3) employment references to: Hiring Committee Oshki-Pimache-O-Win Education & Training Institute 106 Centennial Square, 3rd Floor Thunder Bay, ON P7E 1H3 Fax: 807-622-1818 E-mail: info@oshki.ca Closing Date: November 16, 2012 at 5:00 p.m. We sincerely appreciate the interest of all applicants; however, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
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WRN is broadcast on 89.9 FM in Sioux Lookout and 106.7 FM in Timmins and to many communitybased affiliated radio stations. WRN is also distributed nationally on Bell TV Channel 962.
Mining Essentials Instructor Contract Position (4 Months) Thunder Bay, Ontario
The Mining Essentials Instructor is responsible for instructing and coaching participants in the Mining Essentials work readiness training program for First Nations. QUALIFICATIONS: • Minimum Grade 12 or equivalent. • Must have prior experience and training in adult education and teaching methods. • Experience working at a mine site or in the mining industry an asset. • Effective instructional ability. • Effective interpersonal and communication skills. • WHMIS and First Aid an asset. DUTIES: • Provide community-based instruction to participants in accordance with the Mining Essentials training curriculum and standard. • Liaise with industry partners and assist with planning and touring of project sites. • Coach and mentor participants in order to prepare them for entry level employment. • Evaluate students through the use of tests, assignments and observations; and to record student progress through the use of portfolios. • Collaborate with program staff to continually assess needs and challenges. • Must be willing and able to travel to fly-in First Nation communities. If interested please forward your cover letter, resume and three (3) employment references to: Hiring Committee Oshki-Pimache-O-Win Education & Training Institute 106 Centennial Square, 3rd Floor Thunder Bay, ON P7E 1H3 Fax: 807-622-1818 E-mail: info@oshki.ca Closing Date: November 16, 2012 at 5:00 p.m. We sincerely appreciate the interest of all applicants; however, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
1
Wawatay News
NOVEMBER 8, 2012
Ring of Fire railroad proposal adds new twist to old debate Port Authority plan has publically-owned railroad tied to ONTC Shawn Bell Wawatay News
Figuring out how to link the proposed Ring of Fire mines to market has been a long standing debate. Whether ore should travel east-west or north-south has been the primary discussion, with stakeholders across the spectrum weighing in on which way is best. Through it all, the idea of using a railway instead of a road has been kept quietly on the backburner. Now a new coalition of unlikely partners is trying to bring the rail option to the forefront. In what it calls a New Deal for northern Ontario, a group led by the James Bay Lowlands Ports and Trustee Corporation (JBLPTC) has proposed an ambitious, publically-owned transportation corridor that would tie the Ring of Fire to existing northern Ontario railway lines while taking over control of the Ontario Northern Transportation Company (ONTC) and continuing passenger rail services from James Bay to the south. The plan is in its early stages. The JBLPTC still needs approval by the federal government under the Canada Marine Act to officially operate as a port. And even if it gets that federal approval, the organization needs Ontario to grant it con-
trol over the existing ONTC, while finding financial backing to build a new rail line from Nakina to the Ring of Fire. But Roy Haines, CEO of the JBLPTC, is optimistic that the plan can not only get off the
“I am very pleased about the opportunity for First Nations people to get involved in the development of the Ring of Fire,” said Leo Friday, Deputy Grand Chief, Mushkegowuk Council in a press release. “We
“The northern territory should have more of the resource wealth staying in the north rather than shipping it out south. This model, through the port authority, sets out how to keep more of the economic benefit closer to where the communities are.” -Roy Hains, CEO of James Bay Ports and Trustee Corporation
ground, but that it can succeed in spreading the benefits of the Ring of Fire across a wider group of stakeholders and keep the infrastructure publically-owned. “(The proposal) seems to have all the right elements, and we certainly believe this infrastructure should be in public hands, not private,” Hains said. “The northern territory should have more of the resource wealth staying in the north rather than shipping it out south. This model, through the port authority, sets out how to keep more of the economic benefit closer to where the communities are.” The plan has received approval from Mushkegowuk Tribal Council, northern Ontario municipalities and union representing ONTC employees.
are ready to work together for the benefit of First Nations people. An important part of this will involve training and education so that Aboriginal workers can gain access to the full range of future employment opportunities at Ring of Fire mines.” Hains said discussions have been held with chiefs of Marten Falls, Webequie and Aroland First Nations and he hoped to reach other Matawa chiefs in the near future. He also plans to meet with provincial ministers responsible for transportation and northern development and mines over the coming weeks. Despite the name of the organization spearheading the initiative, the plan does not involve actually shipping ore through a James Bay port.
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Hains said that being registered as a port authority under the Canada Marine Act is a “perfect vessel” for creating and holding the infrastructure required, as the marine act covers railways, roads and airports needed to get resources to a port. Hains said that under the proposed plan ore from the Ring of Fire would be shipped by rail to Sudbury or wherever processing will take place. He argues that connecting the Ring of Fire by rail rather than road makes economic and environmental sense. “In our case we believe in the long-term advantages of railway,” Hains said. “The province seems to favour a road, but we look at examples around the world and say no, the ore is too heavy and this is unusual terrain, its hard to travel. You’d need an awful lot of trucks, and what happens when one goes off the road or there is a lot of snow? Rail is a much more efficient option. In a “perfect” situation where the federal government approved the port authority and the Ontario government transferred ownership of ONTC to the JBPTC in the near future, Hains expects that getting financing to build a railway from Nakina to the Ring of Fire could be completed sometime next year. In his vision construction could start sometime in 2013.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY The Home Care Nurse is responsible for providing community based acute care nursing services and is under the direct supervision of the Home and Community Care Coordinator (H&CCC). The Home Care Nurse uses her/his teaching, assessment and nursing skills to effectively assist clients to attain the optimum level of independent functioning. All Home Care Nurses are involved in the delivery of acute home care nursing services, focusing on diabetes and related health issues, however additional areas of responsibility may be attached to the individual positions. Position Description: Registered Home Care Nurse Duration: Permanent Full Time Salary: Negotiable Qualifications: • A member in good standing with the College of Nurses of Ontario, with current registration: ƕ Qualifications include one or more of the following: i. B.Sc.N degree in nursing from a Canadian University or recognized equivalent ii. A certificate or a diploma in nursing or community health nursing from a recognized post-secondary institution • Previous Home Care or Community Health work experience • Must have demonstrated ability in public relations and interpersonal skills • Must be self directed and have demonstrated organizational skills • Excellent verbal and written communication skills • Possess and maintain a valid driver’s license • Experience working with aboriginal organizations and federal/ provincial governments • Ability to work under minimal supervision and within a team framework • Decision-making and problem-solving skills • Previous experience in geriatrics and/or palliative care an asset • Ability to speak, read and write in Cree would be an asset • Ability to take on a supervisory role with Personal Support Workers (PSWS) and Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) • Knowledge of aboriginal cultures and traditions • Must present current a Criminal Reference Check Deadline for Applications: Friday November 23, 2012 at 4:00 Applications must include: Cover letter, resume with three (3) references and Current Police Check (CPIC) Send Applications to: Monique Edwards, Coordinator, Home and Community Care P.O. Box 254 Attawapiskat First Nation Attawapiskat, ON P0L 1A0 Envelope marked “REGISTERED HOME CARE NURSE” We thank all who apply, however, only those selected for further consideration will be contacted
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10
Wawatay News
NOVEMBER 8, 2012
ᐧᐊᐧᐊᑌ ᐊᒋᒧᐧᐃᓇᐣ
Vice-Provost (Aboriginal Initiatives) Lakehead University is seeking nominations and applications for the position of Vice-Provost (Aboriginal Initiatives). Lakehead is a comprehensive university with a reputation for innovative programs and cuttingedge research. With campuses located in Thunder Bay and Orillia, Lakehead has approximately 8,680 students, 11% of whom are Aboriginal students, and 319 full-time faculty. Known for its multidisciplinar y teaching approach and its emphasis on collaborative learning and independent critical thinking, Lakehead offers a variety of degree programs at the undergraduate, Master’s and doctoral levels, as well as on-campus and community-based programs, continuing education and distributed learning. The University offers specific Aboriginal Programs such as Honours Bachelor of Education (Aboriginal), Native Language Instructors’ Program, Native Teacher Education Program, and Native Nurses Entr y Program. In addition, Lakehead has a Native Access Program and the Nanabijou Aboriginal Graduate Enhancement Program. Further, there is a Department of Indigenous Learning at Lakehead University and Native Language Programs are also offered. The University also has a Canada Research Chair in Indigenous Education. The Vice-Provost (Aboriginal Initiatives) is the senior administrative officer responsible for Aboriginal academic programming, Aboriginal student support services and Aboriginal community relations. The Vice-Provost reports to the Provost & Vice-President (Academic) and works with Deans’ Council and Lakehead University Senate (for academic programming), the Vice-Provost for Student Affairs (for student support services), and the Ogimaawin-Aboriginal Governance Council (for community relations) to implement Lakehead University’s mission-specific commitment “to work with Aboriginal peoples in furthering their educational aspirations.” The Vice-Provost (Aboriginal Initiatives) heads the Office of Aboriginal Initiatives. More specifically, Aboriginal Initiatives facilitates a centralized cooperative approach to Aboriginal programming, external community liaison and ser vices
to students offered on and off campus. The mandate of this office is to provide leadership in Aboriginal development and to advance, within the University community, an understanding of Aboriginal culture, heritage and language through activities which heighten the awareness of Aboriginal issues and identity. The successful candidate will be someone who is familiar with the post-secondary system and who has a strong record of leadership and administration, preferably with a PhD; however, strong applicants possessing a Master’s degree will be considered. The new Vice-Provost will build on the past success of the Office of Aboriginal Initiatives. He/she will have the vision, energy and drive to continue to develop the University’s profile and commitment to Aboriginal initiatives. Applicants must be aware of and support Aboriginal history and culture. Knowledge of Aboriginal issues specific to Northern Ontario would also be a decided asset. Located at the head of Lake Superior, Lakehead’s Thunder Bay campus is one of the most beautiful in Canada. Lakehead University’s newest campus, opened in 2006, is located in beautiful cottage country in Central Ontario in the city of Orillia. Further information about this singular university and its enterprising ways can be found at www.lakeheadu.ca. Lakehead University is an equal opportunity employer. Preference will be given to Aboriginal applicants who meet the requirements for the position. The Search Committee will begin considering potential candidates immediately and will continue until the position is successfully filled. The appointment is for a term of five years and is renewable. Applications, including a letter of introduction, curriculum vitae, and the names of three references (who will not be contacted without consent of the applicant), should be submitted in confidence to the address shown below.
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Shy-Anne Hovorka accepts an award at the Aboriginal People’s Choice Music Awards on Nov. 1 and 2.
Hovorka snags six Peoples Choice music awards Lenny Carpenter Wawatay News
Despite having six nominations, Shy-Anne Hovorka went to the Aboriginal Peoples Choice Music Awards (APCMA) in Winnipeg on Nov. 1 and 2 with no expectations of winning. “We were going with the excitement of playing at the awards and I pretty much resigned myself, after looking at the other nominees, that I wasn’t going to win any awards,” Hovorka said of herself and the band. So she was “shocked, happy and amazed” when she won her first award. “When they first announced my name, I thought I better thank everybody while I can still can,” she said. Hovorka ended up making five more speeches after she won all her categories. In all, Hovorka won awards for Aboriginal Female Entertainer of the Year, Single of the Year, Best Music Video, Best Country CD, Best Producer/Engineer and Best Album Cover Design. Hovorka won the awards five months after the release of her album Interwoven Roots. The album cover was designed in part by Silver Suggashie of Pikangikum First Nation, who collaborated with a Sudbury artist.
Hovorka won the Best Video award for the song, “Too Young, Too Late,” which told the dangers of texting and driving. During the award ceremonies, Hovorka performed “Glue,” the song for which she won the Single of the Year. Following the announcement of her nominations, Hovorka told Wawatay News she was unsure of whether she will continue her music career. She already had plans of returning to school to earn her master’s in education. But the awards might change all that. “With this, and getting a lot of requests for more performances, I think I have re-think everything,” she said. “You gotta be flexible in life.” As a songwriter, Hovorka said, the songwriting never stops and she already has written a slew of songs. “There will probably be another album coming down the line,” she said. “I always say there isn’t, but another one always comes along.” Since it is the Peoples Choice Awards, Hovorka is thankful for all the public support. “I’d like to thank all the people that took the time go online and vote for me,” she said. “It’s humbling to know that I had all that support out there.”
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1
Wawatay News
NOVEMBER 8, 2012
11
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Constance Lake students learn cultural activities Patrik Lowen Special to Wawatay News
As part of an ongoing initiative to incorporate cultural activities and teachings, Mamawmatawa Holistic Education Centre in Constance Lake First Nation organized a cultural camp day at the beginning of October. Students from Grade 8 to 12 participated in various activities throughout the day, including hunting for moose and partridge, fishing for lake trout, and canoeing. The hunt did not bring in a moose but many partridge were successfully shot. Later in the day students learned how to prepare the partridge and how to clean and filet the many lake trout they caught.
Photo Submitted
David Ferris, Doreen Ferris and Shane Wesley show off their hunting skills they learned at Mamawmatawa’s culture camp.
Secondary teacher David Cyr complemented the students on their enthusiasm. “All students were really engaged and it was great to see them learn and interact outside of the classroom,” Cyr said. The day was a great success and both students and staff enjoyed the outdoor activities and gained a greater appreciation for each other and the outdoors. “It was a fun day, we got to try things and learned a lot of outdoor skills,” said Grade 10 student Gavin Wesley. The school is now implementing a trapper’s course for the students to further their connection to their culture and the land.
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12
Wawatay News
NOVEMBER 8, 2012
ᐧᐊᐧᐊᑌ ᐊᒋᒧᐧᐃᓇᐣ
Youth centre opens for NAN students in Thunder Bay Rick Garrick Wawatay News
The late Jordan Wabasse’s grandmother believes the new youth centre at Victoriaville Centre in Thunder Bay will help students from Nishnawbe Aski Nation communities. “It’s very hard coming out on your own,” said Beulah Wabasse, during the Nov. 1 opening ceremony for the new youth centre. “There are lots of challenges and obstacles to face, good and bad. With this new youth centre, we all have to put our minds together and help our future youth. There’s lots of them, even here in the City of Thunder Bay.” Wabasse brought up the issue of the seven high school students from Nishnawbe Aski
Nation communities who died while studying in Thunder Bay since 2000. Her grandson died in 2011 while attending high school at the Matawa Learning Centre in Thunder Bay. “You all know about my grandson Jordan,” Wabasse said. “He was missing for three months and he ended up being found in the Kaministiquia River. To this day it’s still a mystery to myself and to others.” Wabasse feels the new youth centre will give youth something to do and a place to look forward to visit after school. “I hope this new youth centre will be very helpful for them,” Wabasse said. “There will be lots of programs and activities. The youth will have a chance to do hands-on expe-
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rience and also be together with their own age group, from 13 to 18.” Tom Kamenawatamin, president and CEO of Wasaya Group Inc., said the DFC students want a better quality of life while studying in Thunder Bay. Kamenawatamin noted the students have identified the need for a place to relax, meet friends, call home, use a computer or access spiritual services. “The common goal of the parents, the leadership and the school is more graduates,” Kamenawatamin said. “In order to accomplish that, we have to have a safe environment, a healthy environment for the students to learn. That means they need to have someplace they can go after school hours instead of going to the streets and getting into negative activities.” Kamenawatamin said the students need to have someplace they can go after school hours instead of hanging out on the streets. “This is what the parents in our communities are asking for,” Kamenawatamin said. “A safe place where our youth can come and get their education so they can be prepared for their future.” Kamenawatamin said there is plenty of support in Thunder Bay for the youth centre, noting that Dowland Contracting, a Wasaya partner, donated $25,000 towards the youth centre, through a $20,000 donation to Wasaya Weecheewaywin last year that is being used for the youth centre and the delivery of $5,000 worth of new furniture. Although the youth centre
is currently scheduled to operate as an 18-month pilot project, Kamenawatamin views it as a step towards the development of a permanent youth centre. “It will be specifically geared towards the northern students according to their requirements,” Kamenawatamin said about a permanent youth centre. “We have support from Confederation College, and hopefully with this relationship the transition from high school to college will be easier for them.” Dowland Contracting has also pledged up to $75,000 in planning and design work for a new high school building, complete with a student residence and activity centre.
Photos by Rick Garrick/Wawatay News
Beulah Wabasse, top photo, hopes the new youth centre will help Nishnawbe Aski Nation students. Her grandson Jordan Wabasse passed away in 2011 while attending high school in Thunder Bay. Dennis Franklin Cromarty High School principal Jonathan Kakegamic, bottom photo, attended the opening with a group of DFC students. Kakegamic feels the new youth centre will give his students another opportunity to get engaged with positive activities during after-school hours.
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