Alberta Sweetgrass - January 2015 WHAT'S INSIDE:
1
Three Alberta First Nations continue to defy FNFTA Page 3 Culture, economics play role in diabetes control fPage 5
THE ABORIGINAL NEWSPAPER OF ALBERTA
JANUARY 2015 VOLUME 22 • NUMBER 2
$5.00
+ GST where applicable
Literacy gets a boost at Little Buffalo Students from Little Buffalo enjoyed books donated to them when Associate Minister of Aboriginal Relations David Dorward visited the community. The collection included picture books, early readers and chapter books. Little Buffalo School is one of 24 schools in Northland School Division.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF NORTHLAND SCHOOL DIVISION
Mikisew should have been consulted on federal omnibus bills By Shari Narine
Sweetgrass Contributing Editor MIKISEW CREE NATION
The full implications of a federal court ruling slapping the Harper government for implementing two omnibus bills in 2012 without consulting with Mikisew Cree Nation are not yet known. However, MCN Chief Steve Courtoreille says it can only strengthen the stand of First Nations. “It feels great that there’s some hope in the justice system of this country,” said Courtoreille. “But the sad part is that time and time again, the governments, both federal and provincial governments, they continue to create legislation and without consulting with the First Nations.” The MCN challenged bills C38 and C-45, both of which effected budgets as well as several key portions of federal environmental legislation. Among the impacts felt by the omnibus bills were the lessening of federal protection for a large number of streams, rivers and tributaries across the country, including culturally significant waterways in MCN traditional territory. The MCN asked that the court rule that the government had a duty to consult with
Mikisew “to the extent that the (Omnibus) Bills had the potential to affect Mikisew’s treaty rights through changes to the Federal Environmental Laws.” In a 64-page ruling released Dec. 19, Justice Roger Hughes agreed with MCN. “I find that upon the introduction of each of the Omnibus Bills into Parliament, notice should have been given to the Mikisew in respect of those provisions that reasonably might have been expected to possibility impact upon their ‘usual vocations’ together with an opportunity to make submissions,” wrote Hughes. “In the present case, no notice was given and no opportunity to make submissions was provided.” Hughes noted that both bills passed “with remarkable speed.” Bill C-38 was introduced in April and became law in June, while Bill C-45 was introduced in October and passed in December. However, Hughes did not grant an injunction to MCN, writing “the scope of the terms of such an order would be almost impossible to define.” This is not the first time MCN has been successful in a court challenge against federal
legislation implemented without consultation. “I’m quite pleased but at the same time very disappointed that why do we have to keep reminding the government they have to consult?” said Courtoreille. “We took them to task and won our case in the Supreme Court in 2005. Isn’t that good enough to say you have a legal responsibility, not only a fiduciary responsibility, to protect our interest and why do we have to go to court to remind you?” In 2005, the Mikisew argued in front of the Supreme Court of Canada that Ottawa had failed to adequately consult with them over plans to add traditional territory to Wood Buffalo National Park. The band is presently lobbying UNESCO to give the park an “at-risk” designation to further protect it from encroaching oil sands and hydroelectric projects. Courtoreille holds that this latest decision is not only a victory for First Nations, but all Canadians. “The environment affects everybody and if the government is going to cut out the Environmental Act and not protect the environment, well, what are they saying to the
Canadian people? What is more important? The tarsands projects that are pushing forward and (this) makes it a lot easier for them to get approvals rather than going through hearings and it’s pretty scary how the future is going to look like if we allow them to continue,” said Courtoreille. There are numerous reasons why MCN’s legal victory should be lauded by Canadians, blogs Don Richardson, with Shared Value Solutions, a certified B corporation in Ontario that “uses the power of business to solve social and environmental problems.” Not only will there be increased Aboriginal environmental oversight and stewardship on the waterways and fish habitat, along with the application of Aboriginal traditional knowledge impacting government decisions, writes Richardson, but there will also be more federal environmental assessments and stronger partnerships between Aboriginal groups and industry. The government has until Jan. 19 to appeal the decision. Courtoreille expects Ottawa will take that step. “But I think if they were openminded, they would say,
‘Mikisew has a point. Maybe we need to do things better. No need to appeal now, we’ll work with them.’ That would be the best thing that ever happened in this country but I don’t know,” said Courtoreille. “If they appeal, they’re telling me that they don’t feel that they have a fiduciary responsibility for our treaty rights and they’re not going to protect our treaty rights so we’ll take them to task further if we have to. I’m not prepared to stop for anything right now.” CANADIAN PUBLICATION MAIL # 40063755
Alberta Sweetgrass - January 2015
2
ALBERTA NEWS
PHOTO: ATCO STRUCTURES & LOGISTICS
The lodge will be constructed using ATCO’s next-generation modular fleet that features contemporary interior upgrades including a modern colour palette, walk-in closets and ensuite bathrooms.
As per contract to Shari, no payment for photo Alberta Briefs CUTLINE: (goes with first entry) The lodge will be constructed using ATCO’s next-generation modular fleet that features contemporary interior upgrades including a modern colour palette, walk-in closets and ensuite bathrooms. (Photo: provided by ATCO Structures & Logistics) Partnership continues between Woodland Cree, ATCO A joint-venture partnership between the Woodland Cree First Nation and ATCO Structures & Logistics will see the design, build and operation of a 150-person workforce accommodation lodge to house workers constructing the Otter Lake compressor station in the Peace River region. The lodge is scheduled to open in January 2015 and will provide accommodations until January 2016. ATCO and WCFN will be working together to provide camp services for this project including camp management, catering, housekeeping and janitorial. This partnership has been structured in a way that will allow WCFN to participate in all facets of the construction and operation of the facility. WCFN previously partnered with ATCO on the Shell Carmon Creek Project. McKay among top two Chiefs for salaries According to information filed with Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada, Fort McKay First Nation Chief Jim Boucher collected the second highest salary in Canada at $644,441. Only Chief Ron Giesbrecht, of the Kwikwetlem First Nation at $914,219, earned more during the time period from April 1, 2013, to March 31, 2014. Other northeastern Chiefs Steve Courtoreille of the Mikisew Cree First Nation earned†$110,601 and Ronald Kreutzer of Fort McMurray First Nation earned $156,000 in that same time period. Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation did not file its financial audited statement with AANDC. The Fort
McKay First Nation received approximately $2.5 million in funding from the federal government, representing less than four per cent of the band’s $70 million budget for 2014. The financial year ended with a $3 million surplus and an accumulated operating surplus of almost $189 million. Standing denied for public hearing
The Gunn Metis settlement has received status to participate in public hearings for TransAlta’s $1.5 billion gas-fired power plant proposed for the southwest shore of Wabamun Lake. However, Alberta Utilities Commission denied similar status to Samson Cree and Alexis Nakota Sioux First Nations. AUC ruled that neither First Nation had established that their treaty rights were “adversely and directly affected” by the proposed plant, as their concerns about air pollution were “broad and generic.” Also denied status was the Village of Kapasiwin, on the eastern shore of the lake. “It is beyond outrageous that the very people put at risk by the pollution from these projects are the ones now excluded from any semblance of open, public review of major emitting power plants,” said Edmonton NDP MP Linda Duncan, who was also denied status. The Wabamun Lake area is facing major industrial construction, with four other power plants in the works — Capital Power’s proposed plants Genesee 4 and 5, the Paul band’s proposed 1,000 megawatt gas-fired plant, and Atco’s plans for a 400-megawatt plant in the nearby Industrial Heartland. “In the commission’s view, general concerns, including concerns about Wabamun Lake and about cumulative effects, provide insufficient basis for standing,” said the ruling. Martin launches educational initiative in Fort McMurray The Aboriginal Youth Entrepreneurship Program was launched recently at the Fort McMurray Composite High School by former Prime Minister Paul Martin. A part of the Martin Aboriginal Education Initiative, the Aboriginal
Youth Entrepreneurship Program works to educate Aboriginal youth about business including financial literacy, enhancing critical thinking skills and encouraging students to complete secondary and postsecondary studies, all while building relationships with local business and entrepreneurial communities. Martin, along with local program sponsors ConocoPhillips, Suncor Energy and Marathon Oil Corporation and Aboriginal representatives including Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation Chief Allan Adam and general manager Kyle Harrietha of McMurray Metis, signed the program’s partnership certificates on Dec. 12. There are eight students currently participating. The program was piloted in 2007 and is now being taught in seven provinces and one territory with more than 700 students at 46 schools “It highlights the focus we have on First Nations, Metis and Inuit programs in Fort McMurray Public. It’s a flagship program in the district. We have a variety of supports for our students and this certainly adds to that complement,” said superintendent Doug Nicholls. “So to have someone of the stature of Mr. Martin and being involved in the national program, it’s clearly good for students.” Future of CEMA unclear
A report by consultant Human Environment Group, obtained by the Edmonton Journal, is recommending that the Cumulative Effects Management Association, which is currently studying air pollutions levels, take on no new projects and by the end of 2015 complete all its research. At that time, CEMA would be rolled into a new, larger multi-stakeholder advisory group for the entire Lower Athabasca region, says the report. It is unclear who will take over CEMA’s research agenda. CEMA has a diverse board that includes First Nations, industry people, NGOs, and federal and provincial governments and each has input into the research plan. “The CEMA working groups are filled with people that understand the region and it would be unfortunate to take away that level of collaboration,” said Dan Stuckless, with Fort McKay First Nation. The pressure to revamp or disband CEMA began last year after the federal and provincial governments set up the jointoilsands monitoring initiative. However, every First Nation involved with JOSM has pulled out, claiming their voices were not being heard. Provincial political landscape changes In a surprise move, Wildrose Party leader and head of the Official Opposition Danielle Smith jumped ship and joined Prentice’s Conservative government. In her resignation letter of Dec. 18, Smith said nine of the 14 members of her caucus “have joined the government caucus in a reunification of Alberta’s conservatives.” The decision to accept the former Wildrose MLAs came after a lengthy debate of the Conservative caucus and was not unanimous. Evan Menzies, director of communications for the Wildrose party, issued a statement indicating, “As MLAs, we remain fiercely committed to the Wildrose party, but more importantly, the principles and mandate that we were sent to the Legislature to fulfill.” The defection dropped the Wildrose to five sitting members, the same number as the Liberals and drew the Wildrose’s status as Official Opposition into question. However, on Dec. 23, Speaker of the House Gene Zwozdesky ruled, “Based on a thorough review of authorities and precedents across Canada, I have determined that incumbency is the key factor in the case of a tie and that the Wildrose caucus shall continue as the Official Opposition.” The 2012 election saw the fledgling Wildrose party take 440,000 votes and earn 17 seats. Calgary-Fish Creek†MLA Heather Forsyth, former Conservative member,†took over as interim leader†for Wildrose.
Check us out online at: www.albertasweetgrass.com A part of the ammsa.com online network.
BC approves Site-C Dam BC Hydro’s Site-C Dam project on the Peace River, approximately seven kilometers west of Fort St. John in northeastern BC, has received the approval of the British Columbia government. The proposed dam will result in the flooding of 5,550 hectares of land within the traditional territory of Treaty 8 First Nations. This construction of Site-C will have significant
NEWS
Alberta Sweetgrass - January 2015
3
Three Alberta First Nations continue to defy FNFTA By Shari Narine Sweetgrass Contributing Editor ATHABASCA CHIPEWYAN FIRST NATION
Three Alberta First Nations are staying the course and refusing to file their full audited financial statements with the federal government. As of Jan. 8, Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation, Sawridge First Nation, and Onion Lake Cree Nation had posted neither their audited financial statements nor their Chiefs and councils remuneration and expenses in accordance to the First Nations Financial Transparency Act. As of Dec. 31, there were 34 noncomplying First Nations. The federal government had extended the deadline for compliance by three months to Nov. 29. Cold Lake First Nation had been late in posting its statements. However, by midDecember, one week after Aboriginal Affairs and Northern
Development Canada Minister Bernard Valcourt named CLFN as one of six First Nations the federal government would be taking action against, CLFN submitted the required paper work. The delay was due to a combination of being “such a busy group” and requiring more time to separate funding from CLFN-run business entities and the federal government, says CLFN Chief Bernice Martial. However, CLFN ended up sending all its financial information to AANDC. According to the audited financial statement, federal dollars account for only 34 per cent of CLFN’s funding. “We have nothing to hide,” said Martial. “We were going through some negotiations and that’s how come we really couldn’t sit down and talk about this.” Martial, who also serves as Grand Chief for Treaty 6 Confederacy, says the decision to comply with the FNFTA is
up to individual bands. Eriel Deranger, spokesperson for Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation, says as ACFN does not receive federal funding to operate, it will not be posting its audited financial statement nor its Chief and councils salaries on AANDC’s website. “We do provide an audit to our members, the people we are accountable to,” she said. Deranger says it has been three years since ACFN signed a contribution agreement with AANDC. Any federal dollars subsidizing health care, education and social services programs goes to the Athabasca Tribal Council. ACFN is a member of the ATC and money filters through ATC to ACFN members requiring those services. In a statement issued by AANDC, Minister Bernard Valcourt said non-compliant First Nations would have their funding withheld for nonessential programs, services and activities, as well as new or
proposal-based non-essential program funding, and “in the case of those First Nations who have indicated they have no intention of complying, seeking court orders to require publication” will also be action taken. On Dec. 8, Valcourt named ACFN, Sawridge First Nation and Onion Lake Cree Nation as those that the government filed court action against. In a statement posted on Sawridge First Nation’s website, the band said compliance with the FNFTA would violate the band’s constitution as well as earlier federal court decisions (1989 and upheld in 2009) confirming Sawridge’s financial statement is confidential. The band also noted that “members may also access the financial statements, audit report and budget at the First Nation Office on a confidential basis.” OLCN initiated legal action prior to the federal government. OLCN filed a statement of
claim in federal court in Edmonton on Nov. 26, claiming $50 million in punitive damages from Ottawa and challenging FNFTA. “Because of the deadlines and the timeframes, we decided enough is enough. On behalf of our people, the Cree people of Onion Lake… the statement of claim was the last step in a long journey to get the federal government to sit and talk with the Nations,” said OLCN Chief Wallace Fox. Fox says salaries for Chief and council, which is not covered through federal dollars, has been disclosed to membership. Fox says OLCN can afford to challenge the government as the First Nation has its own-source revenue unlike many other reserves. Deranger says ACFN is considering whether to join OLCN in legal action and is in conversation with other First Nations, who are also holding out.
Reclamation project to help revive traditional ways By Andrea Smith Sweetgrass Writer DRIFTPILE FIRST NATION
The Driftpile First Nation is the location of a new land reclamation project funded by Shell Canada. A one acre abandoned well site will be converted into a garden-like environment, with shrubs, trees, and other plants traditionally considered valuable in their community. “We wanted to look at reclaiming land in a way the community would like versus the way the industry would like,” said Brad Hestbak, a representative for Northern Lakes College, one of Shell’s partner organizations on the project.
“We initially talked to two or three communities and had varying degrees of interest. Driftpile was the most enthusiastic to get the project off the ground, so we’re working with them on that,” he said. Northern Lakes College is also working with the Woodland’s Operation Learning Foundation, and Incremental Forest Technologies. The five partners plan to not only replace lost plants, forest, and wildlife, but also to make the project double as a way to educate younger generations, says Hestbak. “Once we have enough material to put on the website, we’ll be creating that. And
that’s going to have some learning tools that a lot of people can use,” he said. “An entire community can take advantage of that, and create a bit of an archive.” The site will include both English and Cree names as well as descriptions of possible uses for each plant. Planting should be underway by spring of 2015 and continue into the summer, says Hestbak. The project also involves four Elders and two youth, says Sandee Willier, a project manager from Driftpile. Together, they chose 10-15 different species and a total of 1,500 individual plants, which are currently being kept in a greenhouse in Peace River until grown enough to
germinate. “Reclaiming our own… that’s what it’s called. And that’s the reason why they’re bringing back the trees and they’re bringing back the herbs. Because we’re pretty much losing all that within our traditional ways,” said Willier. “We have very little to none herbalists anymore and the ones that we do have, they’re not really surfacing,” she said. In the past, community members would visit the local “herbalist” when they were sick, but that rarely happens now. And industry in their backyard has a lot to do with that, says Willier. “We have loggers on our backdoor. We are losing a lot of our legs… our moose legs.
And with that, they’re taking a lot of our herbs, so we don’t even get people out there looking for them,” she said. Fred Chalifoux, one of the Elder’s from Driftpile, used to pick herbs with a Medicine Woman in his community, and spent time hunting with another Elder, who had that same traditional knowledge. Chalifoux sees the loss of plant and wildlife on a daily basis, and while he finds the project hopeful he still worries. “I was out there all morning. I saw one moose and some tracks, so they’re still out there. But each bush you come around, you see another bush cutter or cat… so it always just reminds you of what’s coming,” said Chalifoux.
4
NEWS
Métis treaties, agreements focus of five-year study By Shari Narine Sweetgrass Contributing Editor EDMONTON
University of Alberta professor Catherine Bell does not believe that the Daniels case – which is now on the Supreme Court of Canada’s schedule – will have an impact on the province’s Métis settlements. “There’s going to be obligations even if, for some reason, the federal government had to pass a legislation, there would be an obligation to find a way to keep (the Métis settlements) alive, like passing parallel legislation. I really don’t see any worries there,” said Bell, who is a member of a multiprovince team of academics and legal consultants, who will spend the next five years studying Métis treaties with the Crown, including contemporary treaties and agreements. Leave was granted Nov. 20 for the Supreme Court to hear an appeal of the Daniels case. A trial court declared Métis and non-status Indians as “Indians” under Section 91(24) of the Constitution and as such coming under federal jurisdiction. In 1990 the Federation of Métis Settlements and the province of Alberta signed the Alberta-Métis Settlements Accord. That accord is further supported, says Bell, by the Supreme Court’s Tsilhqot’in ruling in June. She admits it is “odd” to be considering a case that deals with First Nations but the implications of the ruling are far reaching. “Tsilhqot’in said that when we’re talking about provincial
legislative actions … the question isn’t whether which government should be passing that law and entering into relationship, but the Section 35 test, to what extent has a government action affected an Aboriginal right,” said Bell. “So (Tsilhqot’in) takes the focus off the debate of which government (and puts the focus on) what is the impact and have you met your Constitutional obligation.” As part of the Métis treaty study, Bell will also examine whether federal government involvement is necessary. “So if I’m trying to argue the Métis settlement is a treaty-like promise, is it relevant that there is a negotiation between the province and Métis, and the feds aren’t involved?” said Bell. Treaty-like promise was raised through the Supreme Court’s Manitoba Métis Federation case and “suggests that there is a duty on the Crown to diligently fulfill the purpose of its promise,” said Bell. The aspect of Daniels that could impact the Métis settlements is the definition of who is a Métis, she adds. That definition is among the points the Supreme Court is being asked to clarify. As it stands now, the Powley definition of Métis sets criteria, which includes identification of the historic Métis community as well as identification with a contemporary Métis community. “The settlements … are historically a mixed population of Métis and non-status people so a very strict application of Powley to them without taking into consideration the evolution
of those communities and the fact that the core of those communities are Métis and some of the lands were areas Métis lived but not all of them, if one applies a very strict application, that could cause some issues for who is and is not Métis for the purposes of jurisdiction,” said Bell. While the study of Métis treaties and agreements coincides with the Supreme Court’s decision to hear an appeal on the Daniels case that is not the driving force for the country-wide project. “We also want to examine how the Métis would participate in ongoing claims in terms of treaty model and allow Métis to be able to rely on mechanisms like the comprehensive claims process to resolve their disputes or to be included in the specific claims process for already existing treaties,” said University of Ottawa professor Larry Chartrand, who is heading the project. Chartrand says the study may also serve to set up mechanisms for the Métis and various levels of government to move forward on outstanding issues. “The treaty approach may actually be the resolution to the issue (rather) than litigation,” he said. “A lot of the claims that Métis bring forth wind up in the courts.” Joining Bell from the U of A’s faculty of law is assistant professor D’Arcy Vermette. Rounding out the group are academics from the universities of Manitoba and Saskatchewan as well as prominent Métis lawyers and consultants.
First woman appointed to head Treaty 6 Confederacy By Shari Narine Sweetgrass Contributing Editor COLD LAKE FIRST NATION
The only woman Chief in the Confederacy of Treaty Six First Nations is now wearing the headdress of Grand Chief. “I was shocked to learn I was the first woman Grand Chief (for Treaty 6 Confederacy). I guess I made history,” said Bernice Martial, who also serves as Cold Lake First Nation Chief. Competing against men and winning is not new for Martial. When she won the election as Chief for Cold Lake First Nation she was the only woman seeking that position. “I thought to myself, ‘We’re all equal,” she said. “And I’m not afraid to address concerns. I have my own way of addressing concerns, try to do something about it. I’m not the type of person who is aggressive either. I learned to listen before I speak.”
She has served as Chief of CLFN since July 2013. Martial was appointed at the end of October 2014 to replace Grand Chief Craig Makinaw, of the Ermineskin Cree Nation. A special ceremony was held midDecember. Martial says she has “no idea” why Makinaw was replaced. The appointment is made annually by a motion of the Chiefs. Martial will hold the position until July. She says she “felt pretty good” about receiving the support of the Treaty 6 Chiefs along with the Elders. Getting the appointment was “overwhelming,” she says, but upon giving it careful consideration, she decided to accept the responsibility, which she takes seriously. Martial categorizes her leadership style as one in which she is not afraid to take action and get results. “I’m the type of person that gets the job done. I make
commitments, I make my determination to succeed,” she said. “I’m pretty dedicated to what I’m doing.” Martial says her priorities with Treaty 6 are the same as her priorities with her own First Nation: education, health and child welfare issues. “As leaders at this time we’re going through all the legislation and the policies that the government is imposing on us and to put a good position paper in place (for the chiefs) to all work together,” she said. “I feel that Treaty 6 is in a real good position to go forward.” Martial says she is uncertain as to whether she will seek to extend her position as Grand Chief. “I usually don’t think that far ahead,” she said. “I just live for today. If it’s meant to be, it’s meant to be. If it’s not meant to be, it’s not meant to be. That’s just the way I take life in general.”
~ Established December 1993 ~ ISSN #1199-6773 • Canadian Publication Mail # 40063755 Published monthly by the Aboriginal Multi-Media Society (AMMSA)
Bert Crowfoot—Publisher
• Shari Narine – Contributing Editor Judy Anonson – Production
Paul Macedo – Director of Marketing Shirley Olsen – Sales Consultant Carol Russ • Tannis Jacob – Accounts Distribution: 8,500 Alberta Sweetgrass is politically and financially independent. Board of Directors Jennie Cardinal - President Rose Marie Willier - Vice President Dr. Chester Cunningham - Treasurer Leona Shandruk - Director Noel McNaughton - Director All editorial content in Alberta Sweetgrass is copyright, and may not be reproduced in any manner without the express written permission of the editor. Prospective writers should send for writers' guidelines and a sample copy from the editor. Letters to the editor and all undeliverable Canadian addressed copies can be sent to:
Alberta Sweetgrass 13245 - 146 Street, Edmonton, AB T5L 4S8 E-mail: sweetgrass@ammsa.com Facebook: /sweetgrassnews Twitter: @windspeakernews
ADVERTISING The deadline for advertising in Alberta Sweetgrass February 2015 issue is February 5, 2015. Call Shirley Olsen toll free at 1-800-661-5469 for more information on how to place your ad. Advertisements designed, set and produced by Alberta Sweetgrass are the property of Alberta Sweetgrass and may not be used without the express written permission of Alberta Sweetgrass.
IS ABOUT YOUR COMMUNITY YOUTH, ELDERS, ARTISTS, WRITERS. ALBERTA SWEETGRASS PROVIDES THE BEST COVERAGE OF THE NEWS AND EVENTS IN ALBERTA'S ABORIGINAL COMMUNITIES. DON'T MISS A SINGLE ISSUE!
SUBSCRIBE NOW!
Alberta Sweetgrass - January 2015
Subscription Order Form
Name: ____________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________ City/Town: ______________________ Province: _________ Postal Code: _____________ Phone: ________________
$45 SUBSCRIPTIONS
Please enclose a cheque or money order for $45.00+2.25 GST or charge to your Visa/ Mastercard/Amex. Make cheques payable to A.M.M.S.A. Fax this order form to (780) 455-7639.
Visa/Mastercard: Expiry Date: Signature:
Send to: Alberta Sweetgrass 13245 - 146 Street NW Edmonton, Alberta T5L 4S8 or Phone Toll Free 1-800-661-5469 E-mail: market@ammsa.com
$45
is all it takes to receive Alberta Sweetgrass for 1 year (12 issues)!
NEWS Didn't find your ideal career here? Find even more career listings online at: www.ammsa.com
Alberta Sweetgrass - January 2015
5
Culture, economics play role in diabetes control By Andrea Smith Sweetgrass Writer EDMONTON
While the loss of culture has had a devastating effect on Canada’s First Nations people in a variety of ways, a new study shows culture may play a role in the prevention of chronic disease. Richard Oster, and his team of researchers from the University of Alberta, found that a community that is more connected to its traditional and cultural ways suffers lower rates of diabetes. “Cultural destruction has played a big role. Things like residential schools… that has an ongoing intergenerational impact on people. So taking care of health might be difficult when you’re dealing with that,” said Oster. The study, entitled “Cultural continuity, traditional Indigenous language, and diabetes in Alberta’s First Nations: a mixed method study,” was conducted over a two-year period and consisted of twoparts. Oster acknowledges that stress may have an impact, as inflammation can be the cause of many chronic conditions. However, he says the change in diet and everyday activity may also be playing a role. “Europeans have had hundreds of years to adapt to our changes in environment…to the
Industrial Revolution. But for Aboriginal people, it happened overnight. They were living this nomadic lifestyle, living off the land, and then they’re forced to eat white sugar and fat.” According to Oster, traditional foods were likely much healthier for First Nation’s peoples’ bodies than much of the food we find today with our modern conveniences. And traditional activity, like hunting, which required a lot of walking, burned off any excess calories Aboriginal people may have consumed. “I like to say Aboriginal people have the good genes for the wrong environment,” said Oster. In the first part of the study, the team consulted 10 Cree and Blackfoot leaders to get an idea of what culture meant to them, before moving on to compare diabetes rates with cultural continuity in 30 Alberta First Nations’ communities. Oster says he and his team settled on language as their cultural indicator, because language contains embedded forms of traditional knowledge. “Enmeshed in their language, in their culture… are stories about how to live a healthy lifestyle, and how to be mentally healthy, physically healthy, emotionally healthy, and spiritually healthy. So learning that, and being connected to that, people can actually do that… learn how to lead a
healthy life,” he said. Rick Lightning, a respected leader in the community of Maskwacis, was one of the people Oster reached out to during the first part of the study. “I was diagnosed when I was 55,” said Lightning. “And like everyone else, I was in denial until I saw a couple of friends with one leg and one was blind. And that kind of scared me into being a little more serious.” Lightning, who has presented on the study’s findings with Oster, also helps generate awareness of the disease in his home community. He said denial is a huge issue for the people who are getting diagnosed now because making the necessary lifestyle changes isn’t always easy, given the low employment and high poverty rates in communities like Maskwacis. “Once you become diabetic, you have to eat healthy foods. But you have to have a job to buy the healthy foods. And you have to have the benefits, and if you don’t have a job, you don’t have the benefits,” he said. But Lightning’s biggest concern is for the youth, because the disease is being diagnosed at younger and younger ages. “If you have diabetes in the family, it means it’s just dormant right now. It’s a matter of when… and we have to be very frugal about how we keep our lifestyle, and what we do,” he said.
Alberta Sweetgrass - January 2015
6
EDMONTON Police officer’s promotion sparks protest
PHOTO: EDMONTON FOOD BANK
Tamisan Bencz-Knight, resource development assistant with the Edmonton Food Bank, and successful food and fundraiser Can Man Dan Johnstone.
Food, money raised to feed those in need By camping out twice in a food bank truck 24 hours a day for a total of 143 hours, Can Man Dan Johnstone raised 11,440 kilograms and $13,675 for the Edmonton Food Bank. Johnstone, an antipoverty activist, philanthropist, and community organizer, braved the cold weather Dec. 4-7 at the Safeway at Southgate Centre and was blessed with milder weather at Southbrook Sobeys on Dec. 22-24 in his deed. Johnstone started his work in June 2011 when he began going door-to-door collecting food donations. After growing up in a single parent, low income household, Johnstone was motivated to support the same services that his family had needed. Johnstone says his goal is to help bring awareness and ultimately assist in ending poverty and homelessness. Approximately 15,000 people are assisted each month by the Edmonton Food Bank’s hamper program. In November 2013, the food bank fed 13,870 people through hampers; in November 2014, that number jumped to 14,964. “We’ve seen an increase in food bank usage across the city throughout the last year with our hamper programs as well as the meal and snack programs,” said Executive Director Marjorie Bencz. Donations and food were collected at Candy Cane Lane, the CP Holiday Train, Tom Jackson’s Huron Carole at the Jubilee Auditorium, and a variety of other events.
Over 1,200 New Year’s meals served Bissell Centre served over 1,200 free dinners on New Year’s for the inner-city community at Boyle Street Plaza. For over 20 years, Bissell Centre has been hosting the free New Year’s Day dinner for those who are homeless and living in poverty within Edmonton. “For Bissell Centre, the importance is to bring people together for what is their first hot meal of the year,” said Amanda Almeida, manager, community participation and volunteer services at Bissell Centre. While numerous organizations host Christmas meals, Bissell Centre focuses on New Year’s Day. The food was provided by a variety of volunteer organizations and businesses and catering was undertaken by Edmonton Northlands. Bissell Centre serves approximately 540 meals every day spread across the Drop-In Centre, the Child Care Facility, and Employment Services.
First Nation artist designs Human Rights award Local First Nation’s artist Aaron Paquette designed this year’s Human Rights award which was presented to Marni Panas, Amarjeet Sohi, Velvet Martin, Mohamed El Daly and Brianna Olson, all advocates for strengthening the fabric of Edmonton around transgender rights, youth poverty, multiculturalism, children’s rights and environmental rights. The city’s eighth annual awards was highlighted by keynote speaker Dr. Cindy Blackstock, as associate professor at the University of Alberta and executive director of the First Nations Child and Family Caring Society, which is awaiting a decision by the Canadian Human Rights Commission on the treatment of children on reserve by the federal government. The award is presented annually by the John Humphrey Centre on International Human Rights Day, Dec. 10.
Pilot project makes acquiring status cards less daunting A pilot project undertaken by Boyle Street Community Services is helping First Nations people living in the inner city acquire their treaty cards. The federal government has teamed up with the community organization to help work through the red tape and hold information sessions at the Boyle Street building. The majority of clients at Boyle Street are Aboriginal but only a small percentage have their status card, which brings significant benefits like access to federal health programs and help with medication costs.
Raising the Roof campaign coming to an end The last leg of Homeward Trust Edmonton’s Raising the Roof campaign is underway. Money raised through the sale of Raising the Roof toques and socks will be donated to local homeless youth initiatives. The final sales will occur at Kingsway Mall (Jan. 27), City Hall at the farmer’s market on Jan. 31, and Toque Tuesday, Feb. 3, at Kingsway Mall, Scotia Place, the downtown LRT stations.
Compiled by Shari Narine
PHOTO: PAULA E. KIRMAN
People gathered on Churchill Square to protest the promotion of police officer Mike Wasylyshen, who was suspended over a violent incident involving an Aboriginal youth more than a decade earlier.
By Paula E. Kirman Sweetgrass Writer EDMONTON
The promotion of Edmonton Police Service’s Const. Mike Wasylyshen to sergeant in early December sparked a series of protests downtown. “When I heard that Mike Wasylyshen was being promoted to sergeant, I was shocked,” said Jeanne Longo, a First Nations activist with Idle No More. “I had seen the news and read the newspapers about what he had done and was surprised he was still a police officer, let alone getting a promotion.” Wasylyshen was found guilty in 2012 and suspended for 120 hours without pay for using excessive force in an incident that occurred a decade earlier. In 2002, Wasylyshen tasered 16year-old Randy Fryingpan eight times in 68 seconds, while the teen was passed out in the back of a suspected stolen car. As well, in 2005, while off-duty, Wasylyshen drunkenly assaulted a man on crutches on Whyte Avenue. He also took a swing at
a security guard. He later pleaded guilty to two counts of assault and was fined $500. A rally to protest Wasylyshen’s promotion was held on Churchill Square on Dec. 20, co-organized by Idle No More, Anonymous Edmonton, and Occupy Edmonton. In addition to speeches, 25 or so protesters round danced and marched to EPS headquarters. “It’s really a despicable situation, and to the police chief it is okay, it is justifiable,” said Duane Good Striker, citing Wasylyshen’s promotion as an example of systemic racism within the City of Edmonton. Wasylyshen is son of former Police Chief Bob Waylyshen. “All EPS officers are held accountable for their conduct, and the matters involving this member have been dealt with previously under the Police Act and are on record as being resolved,” said the EPS in an email statement. “These matters were also considered as part of the promotion process. The EPS promotion process involves an
in-depth assessment, and includes a written exam, behavioural interview, as well a review by the management team/ promotion board and EPS Professional Standards. This member, as well as numerous others, went through a fair and balanced process, demonstrated their competencies, and proved themselves ready for promotion.” Speaking specifically about Wasylyshen, the EPS stated his scores in the recent promotional process were higher than any other of the over 100 candidates and that during his service with EPS Wasylyshen has otherwise had a positive work record, which was factored in when the promotional decision was being made. This includes his involvement in several successful, high-profile criminal investigations during the time he has been working in the VICE and undercover units. EPS said Wasylyshen had participated in one cultural training event and willingly submitted to 31 days of alcohol abuse training in 2006 through AADAC. ( See Policeon page 7.)
CALGARY
Alberta Sweetgrass - January 2015
7
Unified, long-term approach sees improved high school success rate
PHOTO: THE MUSTARD SEED
Staff and volunteers from The Mustard Seed were thrilled with the donations of hams and turkeys from Calgarians during its annual Turkey Ham Jam, held at four Calgary Co-op stores.
Turkeys, hams and chickens collected for Mustard Seed hampers
PHOTO: UNITED WAY CALGARY
Daisy McGee, strategy lead, AYES, connects with Aboriginal Elders at a community gathering.
By Darlene Chrapko Sweetgrass Writer CALGARY
Key to the inroads Calgary’s United Way’s Aboriginal Youth and Education Strategy has made in increasing high school completion rates over the past 10 years has been its everevolving comprehensive approach. The program works with the education sector, including the three school boards of Calgary Board of Education, the Calgary Catholic School District, and Rocky View Schools, postsecondary institutions, agencies and corporations. It is one of the few Canadian United Ways that has undertaken such a long-term strategy to improve education for Aboriginal youth through a variety of “demonstration programs” that build upon prior learnings. Typically programs are created for a specific time frame, usually four to five years as demonstration projects. Daisy McGee, strategy lead, who has worked with AYES for the past three years, says learnings are gleaned from demonstration projects to build new programs with greater sustainability in the future. The programs are dynamic and fluid, adaptable to change. The Aboriginal Pride and the Circle
of Supports programs are two programs that McGee says have been highlights for her. In conjunction with the CBE and Catholic School Boards, the aim of the Pride program was to implement more culture for Aboriginal students. People acted as connectors, creating individual customized support. “Connectors stay with individual students and follow them maintaining a relationship,” said McGee. At Father Lacombe High School, the percentage of Aboriginal students graduating increased from 45 per cent in the first year to 77 per cent in the last year of the program. Similar to the Pride program, the Circle of Supports, a four to five year demonstration project initiated in 2012, is following Grades 8 and 9 Aboriginal students through to graduation aiming to provide the youth with the supports and services needed along the way to succeed. As of June 30, 2014, there were 32 participants in the program. Circle of Supports, which worked in partnership with the Urban Society for Aboriginal Youth and Encore, a CBE program, connected with Aboriginal youth through conferences, events, and contacts on the street to get youth back into school. Eighty-
three Aboriginal youth involved with Encore returned to school. “Laying out the strategy, creating programs, and providing supports have contributed to the overall success of the initiative,” said McGee. While there is little quantitative data to support the AYES program, there are success stories. McGee cites the success of United Way youth ambassador, Chantel Large, who has completed her Bachelor of Social Work and is now working on her Master’s in Social Work at the University of Calgary. AYES is in a transitional phase. “We are talking with agencies to figure out the next steps,” said McGee. Going forward, programs will likely focus on a greater understanding of history, trauma and its origins to determine why students are having a hard time getting in the door. “The change in focus may be not so school-based, but focused on healing to better understand the complex issues youth are facing is to better support them,” she said. This involves an examination of all social barriers: education, poverty and housing.
Police promotion sparks protest ( Continued from page 6.) “I don’t think any amount of treatment for alcohol or anger management or abuse circles or counselling would help him because it’s when you want help for something, you go and get help because it’s what you want as opposed to being caught and forced into treatment,” said Longo. Other protesters who were at the rally were similarly not optimistic about Wasylyshen’s transformation. “I believe in reconciliation and I believe in second chances and I believe that none of us are perfect. We all make poor decisions and deserve an opportunity to learn
from our mistakes,” said Blake R. with Cop Watch. “Now he is being promoted to the upper ranks of the police force and put in a position of leadership and influence, presumably because he will be a role model for other officers. It is true that these events occurred almost 10 years ago and I believe that people can change. But for EPS I have a few questions . . . and I fear the answers to all these questions are the same: The answer is ‘because Mike is the son of a former police chief ’ and that is called ‘corruption’.” Wasylyshen’s promotion has garnered much attention. On Dec. 8, protesters marched from
Churchill Square to EPS Headquarters. On Dec.12, a healing circle took place where members of the Aboriginal community met with EPS. Wasylyshen was in attendance. Idle No More organizer Taz Bouchier says she invited Wasylyshen to the Dec. 20 protest to answer to the concerns against him publicly, but he declined. EPS has a formal complaint process in place in which promotions may be disputed by sending a letter of complaint to either the Edmonton Police Commission or the Professional Standards Branch of the Edmonton Police Service.
On Dec. 6, The Mustard Seed, Calgary Co-op and Country 105 collected frozen turkeys, hams and chickens to distribute as part of the Christmas food hampers that The Mustard Seed provides to individuals and families. Four Calgary Co-op locations participated in the drive, accepting the donations at Macleod Trail Centre, Crowfoot Centre, Shawnessy Centre and West Spring Centre. The 2014 Turkey Ham Jam resulted in donations of more than 300 turkeys and hams and nearly $3,000 in cash donations enabling The Mustard Seed to assemble and distribute 462 food hampers with all the fixings. The Seed was also able to donate 40 turkeys for the annual Bannerman Dinner, held at Victory Outreach for hundreds of people in need on Christmas day.
High risk offender released The Calgary Police Service has issued public information and a warning about the release of inmate Charley Laurence Henderson, 22, from Winnipeg to Calgary. Henderson completed a 20 month, 20 day sentence and three-year probation for sexual assault and indecent assault. Henderson, who also has a history of assault with a weapon and armed robbery, is now monitored by the CPS High Risk Offender Program and Probation. Described as an Aboriginal male, 6’4” tall, approximately 235 lbs. with brown hair and eyes, Henderson committed his past offences in Winnipeg. After careful deliberation of related issues, the CPS determined it in the best interest of the public to inform the Calgary community of Henderson’s release for precautionary measures.
Black Diamond Group signs $27 million in camp contracts Black Diamond Group’s Nehiyawak Aboriginal limited partnership has secured a 703-bed, nine-month guaranteed manday camp contract for an integrated Canadian oil company south of Fort McMurray in the Conklin region. The camp will house workers for the customer’s oilsands operations, expected to generate approximately $20 million. The company’s Dene Aboriginal limited partnership has also secured a 131-bed, 15month guaranteed man-day camp for a Canadian oil and gas company in northeastern British Columbia, expected to generate revenue of approximately $7 million. The Black Diamond Group will provide full turnkey services at both facilities. “We continue to see a reasonable level of industry activity in Western Canada,” said Trevor Haynes, president and CEO of Black Diamond. “These contracts illustrate both the strength of our business and our Aboriginal partnerships.”
Indspire reaches youth, recognizes achievement In February, Indspire comes to Calgary. High school educators and their Grades 9-12 First Nations, Inuit and Métis students will be attending Indspire’s Soaring Indigenous youth career conference on Feb. 26, where they will get the opportunity to explore postsecondary and career options. On Feb.27, the 2015 Indspire awards will be handed out with Alberta represented by Métis Elsie Yanik, receiving the Lifetime Achievement; Métis Ron E. Scott recognized in the Arts; Ermineskin Cree Nation Chief Dr. Wilton Littlechild awarded in Law and Justice; and Gabrielle Fayant taking the Métis youth award. The awards will be hosted by Lorne Cardinal and Kyle Nobess.
Mustard Seed gains revenue from leased parking stalls The Mustard Seed’s 1010 Centre, a 224-unit affordable housing tower which opened last March on the southeast corner of 10 Avenue and Centre Street, was required to include a heated underground parkade as part of its residential development permit, despite many of its residents not requiring parking. The Mustard Seed filed a “change of use” development permit, approved by the city, enabling The Mustard Seed to lease the stalls that are not needed by the centre’s residents.
Compiled by Darlene Chrapko
Alberta Sweetgrass - January 2015
8
COMMUNITY
Book offers first-hand stories of survivors
Larry Loyie in front of the permanent residential school display at the Native Cultural Arts Museum in Grouard.
By Paula E. Kirman Sweetgrass Writer GROUARD
A new book documents firsthand experiences of Indian residential schools to youth and adult readers through both words and photographs. Residential Schools, With the Words and Images of Survivors is by Cree writer Larry Loyie. Loyie, who now lives in Edmonton, is himself a survivor of St. Bernard Mission residential school in Grouard, in northern Alberta. He began researching the national history of residential schools in 1993 with his partner writer/editor Constance Brissenden, travelling for over a decade interviewing more than 200 survivors and collecting personal photographs. The research continued through to the completion of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission gatherings in March of 2014 in Edmonton. It has been Loyie’s goal to document the residential school system experience. He first wrote a play, Ora Pro Nobis, Pray for Us, followed by a children’s book called As Long as the Rivers Flow in 2002, which won several major awards and served as a subject opener for Loyie’s classroom visits. Goodbye Buffalo Bay, from 2008, is the sequel and is about his last year of residential school and moving on at age 14. Residential Schools is aimed at all age of readers. “We created an expansive picture of what life in residential school was like,” said Loyie. “Teachers can only get bits and pieces of the story
from the internet. There’s a lot of material out there but nothing in one place, from trustworthy sources. Now teachers, students, all readers, can find an overview in one place, from the perspective of survivors.” Beautifully designed with a large number of photographs, the book covers residential school history, from how the schools started to how they continued and finally how they ended. “It follows students through their routines, the limited classroom time and daily chores, like piling wood to heat the buildings, cooking meals, and cleaning up,” Loyie said. “We quote from more than 45 survivors or their family members to support the text.” Loyie collaborated with Brissenden as well as writer Wayne K. Spear, who is Mohawk. Spear was communications director of the Aboriginal Healing Foundation and focused on what happened after April 1, 1969, when the system officially ended and the schools began to close. Most of all, Loyie hopes the book will keep the stories of survivors alive. “Revealing the past has been painful for many, myself included,” he said. “Yet we know we need to do it. The hidden history of residential schools must be known to ensure the future human rights of all Canadian children. Residential schools no longer exist but we must not forget them.” Residential Schools, With the Words and Images of Survivors is co-published by Shingwauk Residential Schools Centre and Indigenous Education Press.
PHOTO: PROVIDED
Alberta Sweetgrass - January 2015
9
Check out Alberta Sweetgrass online at: albertasweetgrass.com
Or find us on facebook at: facebook.com/ sweetgrassnews
Didn't find the ideal career for you here? Find even more career listings online at: www.ammsa.com
Alberta Sweetgrass - January 2015
10
COMMUNITY
New partnership to help save lives on reserve By Julie MacIsaac Sweetgrass Writer HORSE LAKE FIRST NATION
Those living on a First Nations reserve are 10 times more likely to die in a house fire than those living in the rest of Canada, according to a 2010 federal study. Horse Lake First Nation Chief Administrative Officer Darwin Eckstrom heard this sobering statistic while listening to a CBC broadcast last March and knew he had to do something to change it. This November, Horse Lake First Nation and the County of Grande Prairie entered into a two-year partnership that will bring advanced fire fighting skills and training to the volunteer fire fighters in Horse Lake. “That was the genesis of it,” Eckstrom said of the CBC broadcast that motivated him. “They talked about the likelihood of dying in a fire on a reserve. It would make you cry, hearing about kids dying in a house fire because the trucks couldn’t make it in time.” Eckstrom contacted the nearby County of Grande Prairie to see if their Regional Fire Services department would provide training at the fire hall in Horse Lake. He also approached the Alberta government about offsetting the costs for training through the First Nations Development Fund. Less than a year later, the official memorandum of
PHOTO: COUNTY OF GRANDE PRAIRIE
Officials from Horse Lake First Nation, County of Grande Prairie and the Alberta government sign a two-year fire training agreement that will bring enhanced emergency response services to Horse Lake First Nation.
understanding was signed. Over the next year and a half, Horse Lake fire fighters—who have not received formal training since 1996—will be trained weekly in the skills and standards of the National Fire Protection Association Level 1 firefighting course. The course teaches fire safety practices and the standards for fighting structural and wild land fires, as well as for responding to motor vehicle collisions.
“Currently (the Horse Lake volunteer fire fighters) are the primary responders to any emergency that occurs in the Horse Lake boundary,” said Everett Cooke, fire chief with the County of Grande Prairie and coordinator of the training program. “This training will improve the safety of the Horse Lake fire department when they respond to emergencies—that was the first and foremost goal. And, of course, it will allow them
to provide efficient emergency response service, both on and off the reserve.” The province pledged $53,000 to cover training for the next year, according to Alberta’s Aboriginal Relations. Eckstrom plans to apply for more funding to help upgrade equipment and infrastructure at the Horse Lake fire hall. The 12 fire fighters slated for training will be outfitted with all-new equipment from helmets and gloves to boots
and coats, replacing old equipment that didn’t meet 2014 standards. Eckstrom also hopes to secure funding to continue training to NFPA Level 2— something Cooke hopes will happen as well. “Once our fire fighters have been trained, they’ll know what to expect, and they’ll know how to intervene. This is going to be better for the safety of the whole community and for the people fighting the fires,” Eckstrom said.
Surprise contest win earns $20,000 to connect youth, Elders By Sam Laskaris Sweetgrass Writer WETASKIWIN
Vanessa Omeasoo got a bit more than she bargained for when meeting recently with officials from her bank. Omeasoo had earlier participated in a TD Bank survey asking how people could improve their communities. Omeasoo, who has Cree and Blackfeet ancestry, and works as the Neyaskweyahk Restorative Justise coordinator, had plenty of ideas. As it turned out, those TD officials seeking ideas were also looking for winners for their 24 Hours To Make Today Matter Contest. The North American contest saw 24 people awarded $20,000 each in order to make their wishes become an instant reality. “It’s definitely an honour for our community,” Omeasoo said of the TD funding she received. “It shows they are recognizing us. And it shows that they appreciate us.” Though she had participated in the survey, Omeasoo still felt she was heading to the bank that day to discuss her own account.
PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Vanessa Omeasoo, restorative justice coordinator, works with community members to facilitates a re-enactment of a circle.
Omeasoo, who has Stargardt disease and is legally blind, did not notice the camera crews that had been set up in the bank. They were there to capture her reaction upon hearing the news she was a contest winner. “The bank manager was brought in and slid across a credit card along the desk and said, ‘There’s a large amount of
money on there to make your day happen,’” she said. After a few puzzling moments, Omeasoo realized she was not there to discuss her own banking needs. As part of her proposed ideas to help her community, Omeasoo was keen to connect youth with Elders. Not only do the youth in her community
have few activities to keep them interested and Elders often have few people visiting them, she points out, but the connection is also an opportunity to preserve valuable and rich traditions and culture. “Every time an Elder passes away there is a book from our oral history that is gone because of the knowledge they have,”
Omeasoo said. But now with the funding she received from the contest, Omeasoo is out to change that. Contest organizers got the ball rolling by purchasing an iMac computer as well as a couple of video recorders and tripods. A website was also launched and a technician was paid to get it up and running. The website will soon include uploaded iMovies, where Elders pass on various stories. “It is frowned upon to record (in the Aboriginal community),” Omeasoo said. “But I try to tell them they need to do this to preserve this for our children and our grandchildren.” After purchases were made, $5,000 was remaining from the award money. Officials gave that amount to Omeasoo to continue running her program. Earlier this year, Omeasoo had been honoured with a provincial Community Justice Award. She had served as the restorative justice co-ordinator for the Samson Cree Nation for almost two years. Since April she’s held the same title for the Ermineskin Cree Nation. Her duties include facilitating workshops to prevent crime and conflict.
EDUCATION
Alberta Sweetgrass - January 2015
11
Software to revitalize, support Indigenous languages By Paula E. Kirman Sweetgrass Writer EDMONTON
Need to look up a word in the Plains Cree language? There’s an app for that. Well, not quite, but there will be a software package available in the near future. Plains Cree is the first language that is part of the project “21st Century Tools for Indigenous Languages,” which “aims at developing software tools that support the revitalization and the continued use of Indigenous languages in all spheres of life: day-to-day communication, administration, business, and education, by both their native speakers and language learners,” said Dr. Antti Arppe, professor of quantitative linguistics at University of Alberta. The tools include an intelligent web-based electronic dictionary, which will assist in understanding texts like web pages written in Plains Cree, a spell-checker that helps in writing Plains Cree texts, and a language training and education application that supports learners of Plains Cree. Choosing to focus on Indigenous languages made sense to Arppe, who is originally from Finland. In the late 1990s, Arppe worked for Lingsoft, a small Finnish software company that developed language tools for the Nordic languages. From this experience, Arppe says, they learned it was possible to start from almost nothing and create, in one or two years, a decentquality initial version of the basic set of language tools (spell-checker, electronic dictionary). Having access to one or more good dictionaries for that language and
comprehensive descriptions of the structure of the language’s words is essential, though, for the work to succeed. Now working in an Englishspeaking environment, Arppe has discovered how important it is to his personal identity to keep hold of his language. “More generally, there is no doubt that language plays a central role in the identity of a community, and that language is one of the key channels through which a community’s culture, traditions and values are maintained,” he said. “Therefore, the continued use of Indigenous languages, often under hard pressure from the majority languages and cultures, has great intrinsic value in itself.” A number of factors played into the decision to focus on Plains Cree. The language is widely spoken by communities in Alberta as well as neighbouring provinces and territories, and is the only Indigenous language taught at the University of Alberta. “In addition, it has an established standardized orthography, and its grammar and vocabulary are well documented in dictionaries, text collections and scientific research. All this provides us with a good spring-board for developing the various language software tools for Plains Cree,” said Arppe. Arppe is joined on his team by Native speakers and scholars Dorothy Thunder, who teaches Cree at the University of Alberta, and Jean Okimâsis, from First Nations University of Canada and also author of the widely used text book for learning Plains Cree. Strengthening their work is access to three Plains Cree dictionaries: nêhiyawêwin :
itwêwina / Cree: Words by Arok Wolvengrey, the Alberta Elders’ Cree Dictionary (edited by Earle Waugh based on the contributions of numerous Cree Elders), and the Maskwacîs Cree Dictionary (Miyo Wahkohtowin Education). All three dictionary authors are also collaborating on the project, and Arppe and his team are also consulting with senior colleagues Sally Rice and David Beck, as well as Cree Literacy Network director Arden Ogg. The project is in its second year of development. Arppe hopes to have the first proper version of the web-based intelligent dictionary completed shortly, which would recognize most of the forms nouns and verbs for the basic central vocabulary of Plains Cree. However, development of the dictionary will continue. Also to be developed is a plug-in version of the dictionary that would allow clicking on Plains Cree words on a webpage and getting the English translation, irregardless of how the word form is inflected. Arppe hopes that this project
PHOTO: PROVIDED
Dr. Antti Arppe shows content from the website for the intelligent dictionary for the Plains Cree language.
will enable Indigenous communities to be able “to continue to use their own languages, in the broadest
possible sense - that is, not just in day-to-day communication but also in administration, business, and education.”
Alberta Sweetgrass - January 2015
12
COMMUNITY
Residential school play impacts on multiple levels
ALL PHOTOS: KELSEY KROGMAN
The residential school experience of Siksika Nation Chief Vincent Yellow Old Woman resonated with drama students and play-goers alike.
By Susan Solway Sweetgrass Writer STRATHMORE
Sound, staging and heartfelt acting brought together a hauntingly compelling story of the Indian residential school experience in this year’s Strathmore High School drama production. Directed by drama and dance teacher Deanne Bertsch, with input from Blackfoot liaison and teacher Eulailia Running Rabbit, the show was an intense and powerful interpretation of Canada’s dark history in relation to Aboriginal people. Through contemporary and Blackfoot dance, dynamic music, and traditional Blackfoot drumming, the narrative piece brought together the Drama, Glee and Blackfoot classes to present the IRS experience of Siksika Nation’s own Chief Vincent Yellow Old Woman. Grade 12 student, and grandson to the Chief, Hayden Yellow Old Woman played Young Vincent and was proud to have the opportunity to tell his grandfather’s story. “It made some people think, like myself, (about) how can a young struggling Native boy grow up and become a leader
of our nation? It just shows that people can be successful no matter what,” said Yellow Old Woman. The show opened with a poem written by Chief Yellow Old Woman titled ‘The Indian In Me,’ and led into a 90-minute production full of emotional and satisfying acting that resonated with the audience, as the painful portrayals of cultural dispossession was revealed. “I was in tears,” said Treena Pretty Young Man, parent of grade 10 Blackfoot student and production narrator Breanna Breaker, “because it told the story of so many of our peoples’ children. The play hit it right on the nose, the story was told with so much compassion…(Bree) now knows how devastating it was but there is still so much for her to learn. I was totally blown away by the play ” The show was stark as it demonstrated young Vincent’s culture change from having to trade in traditional clothing for more contemporary garb, to the resistance of the Catholic priest, and to the confrontation with alcoholism. The story ended with Vincent allowing himself to reconnect with his traditional ways and true identity.
With a backdrop displaying the artwork of George Little Child and the Glee class performing songs inspired by Peter Gabriel, the narrators infused the words of the Chief Dan George poem ‘Words To A Grandchild’ throughout the production. For parent Joni Breaker, it was difficult watching her 15year-old son Chase “live” the experience. “As a parent and watching the scene of the priest walking amongst the students and my son, even though he was playing a character, I couldn’t help but feel protective and wanting to tell him to leave them all alone! It was kind of hard to watch because I’m a sensitive and protective mother,” she said. Chase said the production taught him about the assimilation of his people and the loss of about 70 per cent of the traditional language. Bertsch’s own experiences and interest in the Writing-OnStone Provincial Park contributed to the overall idea of the production. New Blood was also presented at the Siksika Nation High School and at the Kaleidoscope Theatre in Drumheller in mid-January.