Canada’s Oldest First Nations Newspaper - Serving Nuu-chah-nulth-aht since 1974 Canadian Publications Mail Product Vol. 40 - No. 1 - Jan 17, 2013 haas^i>sa “Innteresstinng Newss” Sales Agreement No. 40047776
Protests, hunger strikes, work of Idle No More continues By Debora Steel Ha-Shilth-Sa Reporter Ottawa—Ha-Shilth-Sa goes to press just days after an announcement from National Chief Shawn Atleo that he will take a doctor-ordered break from his role at the Assembly of First Nations to rest and recover from a norovirus that took hold of him during the holiday break. The illness, combined with the recent tumult of the business of leadership in Canada’s Capital City, has left Atleo exhausted. “There were many long conference calls, late night meetings, and frustrations in the past two weeks. I regret to have to tell you that those long days have caught up with me,” he said. Atleo’s announcement comes on the heels of a high-stakes meeting Jan. 11 with the Prime Minister, Stephen Harper. Harper was to meet with First Nations leadership on the anniversary of the Crown/First Nations gathering Jan. 24, however, a meeting was brought forward in an attempt to respond to the demands of Chief Theresa Spence of Attawapiskat, who has famously been on a hunger strike since. Dec. 11, 2012. Spence was demanding a meeting with the Prime Minister, Governor General David Johnston and first nations leaders to discuss the treaty relationship and treaty implementation. The Jan. 11 meeting, however, only answered a part of her demands, and her hunger strike continues as we put the paper to bed Jan. 16. Atleo has been under considerable pressure over the weeks as Canada’s concerns for the well-being of Chief Spence have grown. He has been seen to be pulled in a number of directions, dealing with the overflowing frustrations with the Conservative federal agenda by the AFN chiefs and grassroots people. The public protest of that agenda occurs under the huge banner of Idle No More, complete with “flash mobs,” which primarily have been spontaneously erupting round dances occurring among the holiday crush inside malls or on city streets. Idle No More began as a social media call to arms to fight Bills C-38 and C45, (now law), which will have significant impact on Canada, with federal protections of waterways removed on thousands of lakes and rivers, and changes to the fisheries act.
National Chief Shawn Atleo.
Signs of the times: The Idle No More rallies in Port Alberni were family affairs, with parents and children together taking active roles in demonstrations. These photo were taken at the Dec. 31 protest at Victoria Quay.
Continued on page 7.
Inside this issue... Mowachaht member on hunger strike.......................Page 2 New cultural support worker at Quu’asa..................Page 3 War vet receives Queen’s Jubilee medal.....................Page 4 Holiday feast held at Bread of Life............................ Page 6 Community and Beyond..............................................Page 8
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Page 2 - Ha-Shilth-Sa - Jan. 17, 2013 Ha-Shilth-Sa newspaper is published by the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council for distribution to the members of the NTC-member First Nations, as well as other interested groups and individuals. Information and original work contained in this newspaper is protected by copyright and may not be reproduced without written permission from: Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council P.O. Box 1383, Port Alberni, B.C. V9Y 7M2. Telephone: (250) 724-5757 Fax: (250) 723-0463 Web page: www.hashilthsa.com facebook: Hashilthsa Ntc
2012 Subscription rates: $35.00 per year in Canada and $40 per year in the U.S.A. and $45 per year in foreign countries. Payable to the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council. Manager/Editor/Reporter Debora Steel (Ext. 243) (250) 724-5757 - Fax: (250) 723-0463 debora.steel@nuuchahnulth.org Administrative Assistant Annie Ross-Watts (Ext. 226) (250) 724-5757 - Fax: (250) 723-0463 annie.watts@nuuchahnulth.org Reporter Denise Titian (Ext. 240) (250) 724-5757 - Fax: (250) 723-0463 denise.titian@nuuchahnulth.org Audio / Video Technician Mike Watts (Ext. 238) (250) 724-5757 - Fax: (250) 723-0463 mike.watts@nuuchahnulth.org Client Services Representative Holly Stocking (Ext. 302) (250) 724-5757 - Fax:(250) 723-0463 holly.stocking@nuuchahnulth.org
DEADLINE: Please note that the deadline for submissions for our next issue is January 25 2013 After that date, material submitted and judged appropriate cannot be guaranteed placement but, if material is still relevant, will be included in the following issue. In an ideal world, submissions would be typed rather than hand-written. Articles can be sent by e-mail to hashilthsa@nuuchahnulth.org (Windows PC). Submitted pictures must include a brief description of subject(s) and a return address. Pictures with no return address will remain on file. Allow two - four weeks for return. Photocopied or faxed photographs cannot be accepted.
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Mowachaht member in hunger strike By Shayne Morrow Ha-Shilth-Sa Contributor Long-time Mowachaht activist Lillian Howard has put her life on the line in support of Attawapiskat Chief Theresa Spence and the Idle No More movement. Howard, who now lives in East Vancouver, has been on a hunger strike since Dec. 23. She spoke with Ha-shilthsa on Friday morning, as members of the Assembly of First Nations, minus representatives from Ontario, Manitoba and the Northwest Territories, began a meeting with Prime Minister Stephen Harper and selected Cabinet members and officials on Parliament Hill in Ottawa. Howard said when Chief Spence launched her demand for meaningful discussions with Ottawa, it brought back memories of her own days as a firebrand political activist and organizer. “I am familiar with the community she is from. When I heard the tragic stories of her community, it brought back memories of those same conditions we faced in coastal communities in the 1960s,” Howard said. Living in the shadow of the Tahsis pulp mill, after the Mowachaht were forcibly re-located in the 1960s, Howard committed herself to the betterment of her people at an early age. Serving as an elected Mowachaht councillor in her twenties, Howard later served as West Coast chair of Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council in the 1990s, and has provided her skills and leadership to any number of First Nations causes and organizations in the years since. But it was the Harper Government’s omnibus Bill C-45, which poses a threat to all of Canada’s traditional First Nations territories, that pushed her to the point of risking her own health and indeed, her own life. “I said ‘Enough is enough!’” On the evening of Dec. 23, Howard began a diet of fish broth and water, in line with Chief Spence’s fasting regimen. “For the first two weeks it was just fish broth and water. Now I’m starting to take some herbal teas,” Howard said. Howard said she has prepared much of
her own broth from her own supply of fish, and her brother-in-law from Kyuquot has brought in more fish, plus deer and moose broth. On Friday, her 19th day of fasting, Howard said the physical effects were beginning to mount up, and conserving energy had become a priority. “I’m beginning to feel, on some days, my energy gets drained. In the past week, the weight loss has started to happen and I’m feeling drained, or tired,” Howard said, adding, “Sometimes, my energy will pick up.” As of Friday, Howard said she had participated in every Idle No More event in Vancouver, but she realized she would likely have to dial back her public activity in the coming days. On Friday afternoon, however, she said she would take part in the Idle No More March from the Native Education Centre at Fifth Avenue and Main Street, to City Hall at Twelfth Avenue and Cambie Street: 12 blocks, mostly uphill, followed by a rally and speeches. The City Hall event was to be followed by an Idle No More flash-mob at the Vancouver CTV studio at Robson and Burrard Street, just in time for the 6 p.m. news broadcast. “I’m still getting around but I’m being very selective what I do, she said. “I’m conserving my energy and I have people around me looking after me. I’m in good spirits – strong spirits. I’m a strong Nuuchah-nulth woman.” In Ottawa, talks did go forward with some First Nations leaders. Most notably, Chief Spence herself boycotting the meeting. Howard had predicted the meetings would not take place at all. “Given that it’s Prime Minister Harper
and his Conservative government, and his track record, I wasn’t expecting any positive outcomes,” she said. Howard said despite the federal government’s attempts to play divide and conquer with Chief Spence, the AFN and Idle No More, the message remains constant: Canada’s aboriginal people are demanding more control over their own lives and most critically, their living conditions. In early evening in Ottawa Chief Spence attended a ceremony at Rideau Hall with Governor General David Johnson, but left early because she felt like the event was a “show.” She said she would not end her hunger strike.
Tseshaht is Idle No More On Jan. 19, the Tseshaht First Nation will hold an information picket on the Pacific Rim Highway near Port Alberni, B.C. in the area of the McCoy Lake Road/Pacific Rim Highway intersection, the McCoy Creek bridge and the bottom of Watty’s Hill. This event will be part of the Idle No More movement. The Tseshaht will not close the highway on Jan. 19, but rather
will slow or briefly stop traffic and hand out information to passing motorists. Tseshaht will hand out information explaining the Idle No More movement and the Tseshaht position. The Information Picket will commence at 11 a.m. and continue until 2 p.m. Continued on page 5.
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COVERAGE: Although we would like to be able to cover all stories and events, we will only do so subject to: - Sufficient advance notice addressed specifically to Ha-Shilth-Sa. - Reporter availability at the time of the event. - Editorial space available in the paper. - Editorial deadlines being adhered to by contributors.
Lillian Howard
Ha-Shilth-Sa belongs to every Nuu-chah-nulth person including those who have passed on, and those who are not yet born. A community newspaper cannot exist without community involvement. If you have any great pictures you’ve taken, stories or poems you’ve written, or artwork you have done, please let us know so we can include it in your newspaper. E-mail hashilthsa@nuuchahnulth.org. This year is Ha-Shilth-Sa's 39th year of serving the Nuu-chah-nulth First Nations. We look forward to your continued input and support. Kleco! Kleco!
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Jan. 17, 2013 - Ha-Shilth-Sa - Page 3
Quu’asa NTC welcomes new cultural support workers come stress related to trauma. Joe Tom of Hesquiaht has also joined the Quu’asa Program as a wellness worker. He is based in Tofino at the NTC Community Human Services office located on 1st St. above the Post Office. Tom is another familiar face at Teechuktl having provided coordination
By Denise Titian Ha-Shilth-Sa Reporter Port Alberni–Teechuktl, the Nuu-chahnulth Tribal Council’s Mental Health Program, is pleased to welcome aboard two new wellness workers. David Frank Sr. and Joe Tom have joined the staff providing cultural support to all Nuuchah-nulth nations. David Frank Sr. comes from Ahousaht and has been married to his wife Ginger for nearly 44 years. They have five children and 13 grandchildren. Joining the staff at Teechuktl’s Port Alberni location is a big step for Frank, who says he has never really left home. In fact, he says his present-day home is built very near the site of the house where he was born. Having spent his whole life in Ahousaht, Dave learned cultural teaching mainly from his parents, David and Jemima Frank. He also credits many other elders in the village he used to visit and learn from. “No one elder’s teachings is more valuable than another’s; they are equally important,” he explained, adding that what they shared with him went straight to his heart. Frank worked in Ahousaht as the Program Coordinator for the Circle of Healing program. He said the program involves cultural teachings and ceremonies and is used in matters of restorative justice. It was designed by the people of Ahousaht. In later years he went on to manage Ahousaht’s Holistic Centre, which pro-
Dave Frank vides a wide variety of healing services. “I like doing traditional things and interacting not only with our people in Ahousaht but also with our people in other nations,” he said. “I never went very far (from home) until now; this is a new experience,” Frank said, adding that he is coping by keeping busy, making lots of phone calls home and using social media to keep in touch with the kids and grandkids. “I look forward to working with this team and with other nations,” he said. Frank is participating in training and will be assisting with Community Wellness Training sessions to be held regionally in the near future. He plans to make community visits within a month to meet the people and offer his services. No stranger to healing work, Frank has worked on contract with Quu’asa and traveled to Seattle and Vancouver to help anyone wanting to take part in brushing ceremonies. Brushing is a ceremony intended, in part, to help people over-
services for Quu’asa in the central region while Anita Charleson-Touchie took maternity leave. Beginning Jan. 14 Anita has returned to her position as Central Region Coordinator at Quu’asa. The team welcomes Anita back.
Members of Uchucklesaht Tribe risked their lives fighting a raging house fire that threatened to destroy the remote village of Elhlateese on the evening of Dec. 18. The tiny community, with just 14 homes, is located at the head of Uchucklesaht Inlet. According to Scott Coulson, chief operating officer for the Uchucklesaht Tribe Government, the owner of the home, Rob Cootes, was staying in Port Alberni at the time the blaze broke out. With the Cootes home spewing flames, the concern was two 100-pound propane tanks, facing each other on the side of both houses. The responders managed to wrestle the propane tanks to safety. See the full story at www.hashilthsa.com.
Page 4 - Ha-Shilth-Sa - Jan. 17, 2013
War veteran receives Queen’s Jubilee Medal By Denise Titian Ha-Shilth-Sa Reporter Duncan–A Cowichan Tribes man who has served both his country and community extensively over the past 30-plus years has been awarded the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal. Joe Grey-Thorne arrived at the Cowichan Cultural & Conference Centre Dec. 13 to receive his medal in front of family, friends and colleagues. The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal is a commemorative award created to mark the 2012 celebrations of the 60th anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s accession to the Throne as Queen of Canada. The medals are awarded to recognize service to the country. In 2012, 60,000 medals were to be awarded to Canadians. Thorne, who has Nuu-chah-nulth roots in Ditidaht, was awarded the Queen’s Jubilee Medal after being nominated by Aldeen Mason, Esquimalt Naval Base Liaison Worker, in recognition of the contributions he’s made to the Aboriginal Veteran’s Association of Canada. Joe Grey-Thorne serves on both Cowichan Tribes Council and Duncan City Council. He comes from both Cowichan Tribes and Nuu-chah-nulth and proudly wears both surnames. Joe’s father, Oscar Grey, was Ditidaht and his mother is from Cowichan. Oscar’s sister Rose Grey married Bob Thomas, extending his family connections to Tseshaht. Oscar Gray served in the U.S. military and fought both in
Photos by Denise Titian
Pictured left is Joe Grey-Thorne who received the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal for his service to Canada. Pictured to the right are cousins Jean Jackson, Florence Wylie and Walter Thomas, who stand with Joe at the medal presentation on Dec. 13. Grey-Thorne has roots in Nuu-chah-nulth territory through Ditidaht, and connections to Tseshaht. World War II and in Korea. “We lived in Seattle and my brother was in the Special Forces so I joined the US Marines at the age of 17,” said son Joe, adding he had to lie about his age to join. Grey-Thorne served in the U.S. Marine Corp from 1969 to 1973. He fought in Vietnam, receiving injuries, the scars of which he bears to this day. “Of the many war wounds I have, the greatest one is seeing Aboriginal Vets being mistreated,” said Grey-Thorne. During times of active war, GreyThorne said it felt like Aboriginal soldiers were treated differently. “It seems we all got the dirty jobs…point, tunnel rat …the kind of jobs that get people killed,” he shared. It was during active war that Thorne
and other Aboriginal brothers formed what they called the Band of the Hand. “You take a piece of boot lace and weave it into a wrist band and with that, we formed a brotherhood. We had each other’s back,” he remembered. When the war was over and everyone went home Grey-Thorne remembers being angry. “I had no place to go to just vent,” he recalled. Suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Grey-Thorne said even hearing the sound of a car horn would make him want to hit the ground. When Joe’s son announced he, too, wanted to join the military, Grey-Thorne told him, no. Having endured long waits and the safe return of her husband and two sons from war, Grey-Thorne’s mother also told her grandson, ‘that’s enough.’
Grey-Thorne came to Canada in 1978 wanting to make a difference. Seeing the lack of support and services for veterans, Grey-Thorne helped to launch the National Aboriginal Veterans Association (NAVA). He met other war veterans at powwows and other gatherings and, with their help, gathered the founding members of NAVA. “I’ve been president of the Vancouver Island chapter on and off for a number of years,” said Grey-Thorne, adding he’s also served as the Regional President for British Columbia NAVA from 2010 to 2011. At NAVA we fight for better health care, housing, education and other benefits for Aboriginal war veterans. Continued on page 5.
Jan. 17, 2013 - Ha-Shilth-Sa - Page 5
NTC wants names Continued from page 4. “And when one of our warriors fall we make sure we all show up; we bring a bugler and someone to play bagpipe and we make sure everyone knows that this was not a nobody,” he said. Through the work of NAVA, 300 veterans were sent back to European battlefields and gravesites to help them on their healing journey. Another veteran was sent to Chicago for a surgical procedure the family couldn’t afford. Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council Executive Director Florence Wylie attended the ceremony with other family members from the Thomas family. She stood with them to congratulate their cousin Joe and tell him how proud they are of him. She also conveyed a message from the Nuu-chah-nulth directors who wish to acknowledge the brave contributions of Nuu-chah-nulth veterans. “We want to recognize and honor you for your service to your community and to your country,” she added. Grey-Thorne continues to work with NAVA and also focuses attention on the younger generations. He takes part in
the Raven Program, which is an introductory basic military program for aboriginal youth, and he works with the Cowichan Army Cadets. The Cowichan Army Cadets proudly served as honour guard for former BC Governor General Steven Point. The Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council is currently seeking the names and photos of those who served in World War I, World War II, other wars, and individuals who have previously enrolled in or are currently enrolled in the Canadian Forces (i.e. Army, Navy, Air Force etc). NTC wishes to honour them and have a special wall in the main tribal council office in Port Alberni dedicated to those who served or are serving our country (similar to the Nuu-chah-nulth Sports Hall of Fame wall). If you know of a Nuu-chah-nulth person who served or serves in the Canadian Forces or you served yourself, please forward the appropriate name of the individual who served, a high resolution image of the individual, and the name of the branch of the Canadian Forces he or she served in to the email address ken.watts@nuuchahnulth.org
Klecko’s - +ekoo
Toy Run group steps up Letters to Editor: I am taking time to write this letter to an organization in town which is giving so generously to the youth in our community. I work at Alberni District Secondary School, and see every day the gratitude of students who benefit from your donations. I know that you have the gratitude of the Parent Advisory Committee, but I thought that it would be nice for you to hear from someone who sees the results
of you generosity every day. I do believe that the basic needs (food and caring) are being met for a good number of our children. As well, it has providing food for their stomachs and brain and we are creating positive connections between adults and children every day. Thank you to the Toy Run organization for your generosity over the years. Angie Miller Nuu Chah Nulth Education Worker Alberni District Secondary School
DENIAL - Prescription Drugs Client
“Benefit Exception Process” Prescription Drugs NOT normally approved can follow the {Exception Process} outlined below: Step One……….Client gets prescription from doctor/specialist Step Two……….Client takes prescription to their Pharmacy Step Three……..Pharmacy {advocates} calls Drug Exception Centre – Ottawa Step Four….Drug Exception Centre faxes a form to clients’ doctor for completion Step Five….Family Doctor completes form and returns to Drug Exception Centre Step Six……Drug Exception Centre informs Pharmacy of their Decision Step Seven…..Pharmacy informs client of results When this result is still “not approved” the client has the option of appealing the decision, guided by the appeal process. It is strongly encouraged client contact their home community [CHR-Community Health Representative for further information/assistance or the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council {NIHB- Non-Insured Health Benefits] Program Department regarding the written appeal process – at the toll free number 1-888-407-4888 or locally in Port Alberni at 250-724-5757. For urgent assistance on these matters contact either of the above numbers and ensure you inform your doctor immediately – when the “not approved decision” happens! Pending client wishes to write the letter on their own accord, client must initiate and sign this letter - The letter must contain the following information: {Assistance is highly encouraged} The condition for which the benefit is being requested The diagnosis and prognosis (including other alternatives have been tried) Relevant diagnostic test results Justification for the proposed treatment and any additional supporting documentation The Appeal will be reviewed by a medical professional and the decision will be made based on your specific needs, accumulated research, the availability of alternatives and the Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) policy. Address: The Director of the NIHB Drug Exception Centre – Medical Services Branch Health Canada – Address Locator 6103A – 3rd Floor – 1547 Merivale Road, Nepean, Ontario – K1A OL3
Demonstration set for Jan. 19 Continued from page 2. We urge motorists to exercise caution on the Pacific Rim Highway through the Tsahaheh Indian Reserve, from the grey bridge over the Somass River to the Tseshaht Market, on January 19. We anticipate traffic congestion and slowdowns from approximately 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. We anticipate large numbers of supporters will line the highway with placards and others will stand by the side of the road while drumming and singing.
Please watch for pedestrians on the highway. Traffic may be subject to sudden stops. Traffic delays can be anticipated. The Tseshaht First Nation calls on Prime Minister Stephen Harper to hold meaningful meetings with Aboriginal people. We also urge Prime Minister Harper to listen to aboriginal concerns on Bill C-45 and Bill C-38 and to address the concerns of the Idle No More movement.
Page 6 - Ha-Shilth-Sa - Jan. 17, 2013
NTC hosts holiday feast at Bread of Life By Denise Titian Ha-Shilth-Sa Reporter Staff of the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council teamed up to host a holiday feast to bring cheer to Port Alberni’s atrisk population. The house was full many times over as about 150 people lined up for hot turkey dinner at the Bread of Life on Dec. 12. Bread of Life administrator Cindy Sjoholm was pleased with the turnout saying they usually seat about 60 people at a time during their free hot lunches. As soon as one person left another would show up to fill the empty seat. The feast was coordinated through the NTC’s Quu’asa Program with donations and volunteers coming in from the entire Tribal Council organization. Reg Sam of Quu’asa thanked everyone for their support, including businesses that generously donated food items for the feast. The lunch was blessed with a Nuuchah-nulth dinner song, and then everyone joined in to sing to Bread of Life volunteer Raney, who was celebrating her 65th birthday. Nurses from Port Alberni’s Health Outreach Program were on hand to dispense health information and the NTC’s Robert Cluett was there to answer questions about the NonInsured Health Benefits program. The dinner was such a success that they ran out of dishes. “I can’t believe we have to wash plates; we ran out and that’s never happened before,” said a long-time volunteer. Later that night the Port Alberni Friendship Center kicked off the holiday season by hosting a free community dinner that was also well-attended.
Photos by Denise Titian
Jan. 17, 2013 - Ha-Shilth-Sa - Page 7
AFN discusses eight “key” areas of action with PM
Photo from the Dec. 21, 2012 Idle No More event held at Harbour Quay. Continued from page 1. There are also adjustments to the Indian Act making it easier for nations to surrender reserve lands. All of this was done without consultation with first peoples, say Idle No More demonstrators, a legal obligation under Canada’s Constitution. The movement grew at a phenomenal rate since the first tweets on Twitter with the hashtag #idlenomore were sent out in November, with protests and demonstrations across the country, including on Vancouver Island in Port Alberni, Campbell River, Nanaimo and Victoria. There were also protests at Ucluelet Junction and in the small, rural community of Gold River, among other places. Robert Watts was involved in organizing a number of Port Alberni events. On Dec. 24 he called together a flash mob with cultural singing at Walmart and on Boxing Day at Zellers. On Dec. 31 his ‘mob’ of about 100 people was situated in front of the Whaling Shrine at the bottom of Johnson in the shadow of the two welcome figures at Victoria Quay. Watts said he was motivated to spread some awareness about the implications of omnibus budget bills C-38 and C-45. Environmental protections have been removed from 99 per cent of navigable waterways, which affects all people, not just aboriginal people, said Watts. “Fear,” he said when asked what the motivator is for the thousands of people who have participated in the events. Fear of what’s going to happen to the environment “when the whole country is turned into a tar sands,” he explained. Idle No More came to West Coast Vancouver Island on Dec. 21, with the first rally organized by four ladies— Aliza Sam, C. Anne Robinson, Nitanis Desjarlais, and Cindy Keitlah. Sam said it was what they felt they had to do to let Prime Minister Stephen Harper hear that C-45 goes against treaty and inherent rights. She said people came together to fight for the next generations. Desjarlais has lived for many years on the West Coast, but she is Cree, originally from Fort McMurray First Nation in Treaty 8 territory. She has seen the damage wrought by big industry, such as oil and gas development. She’s afraid for the environment and particularly the waters. Continued on page 8.
Page 8 - Ha-Shilth-Sa - Jan. 17, 2013
&
Community Beyond ?iihatis /ciinaxint Band Meeting
Jan. 26 & 27
Coming of Age Potlatch
Zeballos
April 20
Starts 9am daily
Gold River
Memorial for Anthony Mickey
On behalf of Chief Jerry Jack/Chief Steve Tom We would like to invite Family and Friends to a Coming of Age Potlatch. Start 10 am at the Wahmeesh Gym, Tsaxana, Gold River, BC
Feb. 23
Port Alberni All friends and family invited to come to the Maht Mahs Gym at 12 noon. For more info please call Les Mickey at 250266-0148. Nitanis Desjarlais addressses a crowd in Port Alberni’s Harbour Quay Dec. 21.
Idle No More on WCVI Continued from page 7. She said she was excited to become involved in the “in your face” movement that dares to fight the erosion of inherent rights. Desjarlais even compared the movement to the Arab Spring, a series of protests that began Dec. 18, 2010 which removed rulers from power in Tunisia, Egypt, Libya and Yemen. Desjarlais spoke passionately about the pristine environment of Canada’s West Coast, saying we can still drink the waters here, unlike in her home community smack dab in the middle of the oil sands. “We are the last stronghold,” she said, of the waters, the oxygen of the world. The inspiring thing for Robinson, she said, was that Idle No More comes from grassroots people, who day-to-day live in difficult conditions. It’s grassroots people who are standing up to protect the land, not only for human children and the children yet unborn, but for the children of the trees, the four-legged, and those in the air and the sea. “This land is ours, and we have to protect it,” she told the gathering between drumming and singing and dancing. “Our agreement to look after our lands is not with any government,” she said. “It’s with the Creator.” Idle No More grew loudest Jan. 11 outside of the Parliament Buildings in Ottawa, when thousands demonstrated as a small group of chiefs met with the Prime Minister, a controversial meeting in the eyes of many. It was touch and go in the days and hours as officials from the AFN and Prime Minister’s Office fine-tuned details for that meeting. The result was an invitation by the Prime Minister to a small gathering space that could only accommodate about 30 chiefs. And the governor general was not invited, though a separate meeting with the GG was arranged in the evening. Spence attended. In a chiefs gathering on the eve of the meeting, Chief Spence pleaded with the assembly not to attend. Atleo and 20 other chiefs, however, did attend the meeting where Atleo delivered “eight key areas of action,” he wrote in a summary statement. “At the end of the meeting the Prime Minister committed to a process for high-level talks on Treaty Implementation and discussions on comprehensive claims, as well as conceding the need for highest level political oversight out of his office and PCO [Privy Council Office] oversight of matters related to the relationship with First Nations.” According to the government website, the PCO is “the hub of non-partisan, public service support to the Prime Minister and Cabinet and its decision-
making structures.” The chiefs who were against taking the meeting with the Prime Minister— Spence, Wallace Fox from Onion Lake, Sask., Derek Nepinak of the Association of Manitoba Chiefs, Regional Chief Isadore Day (Ontario) and Chief Whiteduck of Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg, Que—have vowed to continue the pressure being applied to government to address First Nations concerns. Some promised to blockade railways and transportation routes to slow or stop the flow of goods and people across Canada. The national day of protest was scheduled for Jan. 16, Ha-Shilth-Sa’s press day. The Idle No More movement has been peaceful to this date, and the four women who founded the movement have expressed concerns that the protest may be straying from its original intent. On Jan. 15, Chief Spence released a letter to First Nations chiefs calling for unity. “We need to spend less energy fighting amongst ourselves; instead we must focus on finding a common ground, a common understanding and respecting each other’s goals and objectives.” In his letter announcing his short break, Atleo said First Nations citizens have just witnessed one of the most important chapters in our recent history. “Through the pressure of the grassroots, the sacrifices made by Chief Spence and her fellow strikers, and the work of many Regional Chiefs and the National Executive of the AFN, we have seized the attention of Canadians and of this government. “We forced open the door to the PMO and to the Governor-General. We achieved a commitment to the personal leadership of the Prime Minister, the Privy Council Office and other senior ministers. Now they know that the whole world is watching what progress we make. Now they understand the consequences of failure. “We have a responsibility to work together to push forward our work that relates to each of the eight elements that emerged from our discussions this week—on Treaty, on comprehensive claims, resource revenue sharing, action to assess and halt provisions of legislation that contravene our rights, on the urgent needs of our communities and justice for our missing women. We have leaders in place to ensure that detailed work gets done. And now we have the public commitment of this government and this Prime Minister that they will treat these issues as their priorities.” There are more stories and photos from the local Idle No More protests on our Web site at www. hashilthsa.com . Be sure to visit. And join us on Twitter for all the Breaking News @HaShilthSa
More details to come.
Women's Group-Beyond Trauma
Ongoing Port Alberni
Naming Potlatch
March 9 Port Alberni
The Fred family will be hosting a Naming potlatch March 9 2013.
For more information contact ACAWS 3082 3rd Ave or call 250-724-7111 For more information please feel free to contact myself or Alanna at alannac@acaws.ca.
Birthdays & Congratulations Happy 51st Birthday to Dan Leo Sr Jan. 20 and Ariel Leo Jan. 2 and her cousin Chelsea and my niece Paige Bill Jan. 9 and also Verna Jules on Jan. 24 on this day. Happy Birthday Janet Jules on Jan. 5. From Verna and Veronica. Happy birthday Jan. 1 Brandee Sam and Roy W; Jan. 2 Della and Delwyn P, Auntie Nellie Dennis Jan. 7 Ricky Nookmis; Jan. 9 Holly Watts; Jan. 12 Georgina Wilson and Angela Wilson, Jan. 16 bro Drew A. From Marvin and Pearl, Lisa, Chase, Michael, Marvin Jr , Violet. Jan. 6: to our son Michael. Have an awesome day. Love momma bear and dad. Jan 6: happy birthday brother Mike,
love sister Lisa, Wezzy, brother Chase and Marv Jr. Have great day. Happy birthday Jan. 6. Judy Elliot and Julie Gus from Pearl and Marvin and family. Jan. 17: Happy 60th birthday Chief Councillor of Tseshaht First Nation. Love from the family. Happy birthday to my brother Tyson Sam. Have a good day Jan. 18. And a Big Happy Birthday to my Dad Lorne Little. Have an awesome day Jan. 30. Cheyenne Sam Happy Birthday to Nathan Watts on Jan. 11. We hope you enjoyed your day! Love from Mom and Dad. Happy Birthday to Jaden Hamilton on Jan. 5, Dustin Ross and Aaron Hamilton on Jan. 26. From Annie and Dave.
In Memory In loving memory of Nessie (mama) Watts who passed away Jan.18, 1976. We seldom ask for miracles, In death we love you still, But today just one would do, In our hearts you hold a memory, To have our front door open, That no one else could fill, And see you walking through, It broke our hearts to lose you, A thousand times we’ve missed you, But you did not go alone, A thousand times we’ve cried, For part of us went with you, If love could have saved you, The day God took you home. —You never would have died, In life we loved you dearly, Love always, your children
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Need a Car? Need a Van? Need a Truck? Good Credit? Bruised Credit? Bankrupt? Bank Says NO? Don’t Worry! Apply Now! Our Lenders Are Famous For Saying Yes! Call/Text Herb @ 1-250-418-5417 or Email: herbbestautoloan@gmail.com Or Apply Online at www.bestautoloan.ca
Want to get your Job Opportunity seen in Ha-Shilth-Sa Newspaper? Call Holly Stocking at: 250-724-5757 or holly.stocking@nuuchahnulth.org
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Employment Opportunities
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Ucluelet Secondary School hosts Winter Feast Ceremony By Melody Charlie Ha-Shilth-Sa Contributor On Dec. 17, Ucluelet Secondary School held what was called a “winter feast” in honour of it being solstice week, and the holiday time. The concept of creating a curriculum around traditional foods was suggested to the Jennifer Auld’s USS First Nations Class from Uu-a-thluk’s Capacity Building Coordinator Norine Messer and Kimberly Johnston of the Raincoast Education Society. They were looking for a pilot class to host a feast and the USS First Nations class was up for that opportunity indeed. This feast was part of a marine foods education program that is being delivered by the Raincoast Education Society in partnership with Uu-a-thluk. The Marine Foods program builds on Uu-a-thluk’s Nuu-chah-nulth Traditional Foods Toolkit and incorporates a marine ecology component, a cultural history component, and a sustainability component. To prepare for the feast, students first worked on their honouring speech in October along with other curricula around traditional foods. In November and December they were in full swing with various guest speakers /elders who taught them about potlatch
types, protocols to consider and the roles and responsibilities of the host. A lot of preparation went into teaching isaak (respect), hats off, technology off, active listening to Elders and speakers, being “present” in what is happening. They held their feast and did such an amazing job at it all! They each honoured a very special guest that they had personally invited. They stood up their special guest, shared their gratitude with them, spoke from their hearts, cried tears of joy, and just celebrated that person in their life in front of everyone present. With not a dry eye in Photo by Melody Charlie the room, it was a very emotionally proud day Ucluelet Secondary students show off their catch for the winter feast they hosted. not only them but their witnesses as well. food donations from local businesses, Jeff Mikus provided professional Funding was provided by School Distict including Outlandish Shellfish and assistance for cooking and clean-up. 70, Uu-a-thluk, Raincoast Education Wildside Grill. Society, BC Capacity Initiative, West Coast Dual-Language Literacy &
Roles and responsibilities of the host were taught to students, as was protocols to consider and the different types of potlatches.
Above: Jaiden George and his grandfather Lewis George, Maquinna, Tyee Ha’wilth of Ahousaht, sing dinner song. Middle photo: Community agencies like the RCMP were quick to help out the students where they could. Pictured is Const. Marcel Midlane.
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CLASSIFIED ADS
Services Offered CEDAR WEAVER/TEACHER: Earrings for regalia, elders, etc. available to teach at workshops, conferences, schools, etc. (Material incl). Hats baskets, headbands. Phone to order or can barter for what have you (fish). 250591-8199 DELIVERY SERVICE: Serving coastal First Nations point A to point B delivery service from Port Alberni with delivery van. Call Charles at 250-723-3555 or email kaanowish@shaw.ca. CUSTOM ART FRAMING SERVICES: Four Directions Photo and Framing. Call Jim at 250-723-7578. T.S.G. TRUCKING SERVICE: Moving And Hauling, Reasonable Rates. Tom Gus, 5231 Hector Road, Port Alberni, B.C. Phone: (250) 724-3975. MEETING FACILITATOR / NEGOTIATOR: Are you tired of meetings going all night long, never finishing the agenda, going around in circles? 20 years experience and proven track record. Keep your meetings on track. Call Richard Watts, Weelth-tsah @ (250) 7242603 or (cel) 731-5795. Available any time. CEDAR WEAVER: Baseball caps, bridal floral bouquets, for sale. Traditional hats, headdresses bracelets for trade. email whupelth_weaver@shaw.ca; to Ceder Weaves; baseball caps, bridal floral bouquets, for sale. Traditional hats, headdresses, traditional bracelets for trade. email: sandrahsam@live.ca.
Services Offered PHOENIX LASER INSTITUTE Healing at the speed of light DEDICATED TO SELF IMPROVEMENT - Addictions, Stress Management - Weight Control, Grief & Anxiety - Menopause 9208 105 St Fort St. John o: (250) 262-5069 c: (250) 793-7106 phoenixlaser@hotmail.ca www.phoenixlaserinstitute.co
Artists
Accommodations
AUTHENTIC BASKET WEAVING GRASS: picked and processed by Linda Edgar of Nitinaht, 3 corner, sharp and swamp grass and cedar bark. Please call 741-4192 in Nanaimo. FOR SALE: Drums made to order. Great graduation gift. Available immediately, an 18” 2-16” and 14”. Call Earl 250-723-8369 or 250-730-1916. FOR SALE: Deer hydes, excellent for drum making. Please call 250-724-2932
FOR RENT: 1 Bdrm with den or small bdrm, lower suite for rent $800. Central Nanaimo. Near Beban park, schools, bus routes and malls. W/d, heat and hydro included. References and d/d required. No parties, smoking ony outdoors. Small pet negotiable with p/d. Quiet working person, student or seniors. Please call 250-5856065 for more information-can view suite on craigslist, used Nanaimo, Kijiji and Vancouver Island Buy and Sell. FOR RENT: A non-profit organization has rooms to rent, by the day, week or month. Very reasonable rates for Room and Board. Also, there is a Boardroom available for rent. Phone 723-6511. NITINAHT LAKE MOTEL: Open year round! Coastal rainforest and world-class recreation at your doorstep! For reservations and other information call 250-7453844. FOR SALE: House at 399 Esowista.
Daniel Blackstone Community Development & Mental Health: • Presentations • Workshops • Meetings, Formal or Informal • Cultural Awareness 250 591 6552 or blackstoned@shaw.ca
4563 Dogwood, Port Alberni, BC, V9Y3Z8 (250) 724-6831
All About Art Seeking Native Arts and Craft. Traditional & non-Traditional Contact allaboutart11@gmail.com
House of Win-Chee Aboriginal Fashion Denise Williams, Designer Victoria, B.C. Phone: (250) 382-7379 Email: winchee@pacificcoast.net
Coo-us Catering & Events Small or large events Food Set-up/Clean-up Decorating DJ “Serving the people in a creative, fun & respectful way with affordable rates” Certified with experience
For Purchase
tinamgus@yahoo.ca
Native Basket Weaving
REPREZENT DESIGNS: First Nations Graphics. Specializing in Native Vinyl Decals. (Custom Made/All Sizes). All types of Native Graphics. Celeste Howard. Email for quotes and prices. reprezent.designs@gmail.com
Grass and Cedar Bark Easter baskets, ornaments, etc.
Kathy Edgar (250) 510-8013
WATERFRONT OFFICE RENTAL SPACE AVAILABLE
MEETING SPACE RENTAL AVAILABLE NOW
Beautiful view of the Somas River Office space is at the Tseshaht First Nation Administration Building 5091 Tsuma-as Drive, Port Alberni, BC For more information please contact: Chris Anderson by phone at 250-724-1225
2 Rooms available (boardroom and large Great Room) Tseshaht First Nation Administration Building 5091 Tsuma-as Drive, Port Alberni, BC For more information please contact: Christine Hintz at 250-724-1225 or email chintz@tseshaht.com
Volunteer
DIABETES EDUCATION CENTRE West Coast General Hospital Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursdays 8 AM – 2 PM 250 724-8824
BEAR WATTSH INN 5201 Hector Road, Port Alberni, B.C. (250)724-2603 or cel 731-5795. One Bedroom rooms available, own shower and toilet facilities. Nuu-chah-nulth rate available. www.bearwattshinn.com
C EDAR
WEAVING by wii-nuk Mary Martin. 250-918-0316
shopping baskets, whalers hats, skirts, capes & more. Classes availible
TSAWAAYUUS ELDERS: Are requesting volunteers to come and share your time with us. Singing and drumming, dancing, storytelling, crafts of any kind. players. Come and share some special times with us. Please call Judy at 724-5655 or email jpeterson@rainbowgardens.bc.ca HELP WANTED: Need work experience? The Port Alberni Friendship Center is seeking interested applicants for Volunteer positions including: Reception and Youth Workers. We are seeking individuals that are reliable, committed, flexible and of good character. Hours per week may vary. If you are interested, please contact Jeff at 723-8281
FOR SALE: “George Watts – Creating Greatness” books: $20 each. All sales proceeds go to George Watts Scholarship Fund. Call Caledonia at NEDC: 250-724-3131 FOR SALE: 40’ Breckenridge trailer. 1 br, 1 bath, kitchen/living room, electic fridge, propane stove, micro oven. Good condition, 5 years old. $30,000 obo. Good for single person or couple. Located at Esowista, can be moved. Call 250-2662243 for more inforamtion or viewing. CREATOR’S OWN SEAL OIL your source of OMEGA 3. Both Omega 3 and Omega 6 are essential fatty acids (EFA’s) (the good fats). Available from Faith and Richard Watts @ (250) 724-2603 (cel) 731-5795.
FIRST NATION WILDCRAFTERS specializing in cultural resources and other value added forest products and services
C. Anne Robinson 700 A Pacific Rim Hwy Port Alberni, BC ph: 250.720.8907 fx: 250.720.8981 firstnationswildcrafters1@shaw.ca
Marine FOR SALE: 16 ft. double eagle on trailor, 115 hp Johnson motor and a 4 hp Johnson motor. $1500 obo. For more info call 724-3049. FOR SALE: 150 HP Yamaha 2 stroke outboard motor with 720 hours. Runs excellent. Complete with controls and gauges. $5000. Also custom built powder coated pod that had been mounted on an 18 and ½ foot Double Eagle. Good Condition. $1000 Contact: 250 670 1131 FOR SALE: Custom made nets (250) 923-9864.
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