Ha-Shilth-Sa October 24, 2019

INTERESTING NEWS Canada’s Oldest First Nations Newspaper - Serving Nuu-chah-nulth-aht since 1974 Vol. 46 - No. 20—October 24, 2019

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NDP sweeps Nuu-chah-nulth territory Eric Plummer Ha-Shilth-Sa Editor Vancouver Island, BC - Despite the loss of 15 seats across Canada, the NDP have again nearly swept Vancouver Island in the 2019 federal election, including victories for all three incumbents representing Nuu-chah-nulth territory on the west coast. As Elections Canada tallied the final polls Monday night, Rachel Blaney, Gord Johns and Alistair MacGregor were celebrating winning the respective ridings of North Island-Powell River, Courtenay-Alberni and CowichanMalahat-Langford. After dashing into the reception of his supporters in Parksville, Johns pledged to “protect salmon” and fight for “real reconciliation with Indigenous peoples”. For the second election in a row, Johns was formally endorsed by Nuu-chah-nulth leaders at the Council of Ha’wiih Forum on Fisheries in early October. NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh made mul-

tiple visits to the riding leading up to the election. Johns garnered 41 per cent of votes, beating Conservative candidate Byron Horner’s 33 per cent, with Sean Wood of the Green Party and Jonah Gowans of the Liberals coming third and fourth. “Our leader’s message of love and courage resonated with coastal people,” said Johns. “In this campaign, our goal was always to make sure that people of the coast have a seat at the table, that people and the environment were going to be front and centre, and we achieved that in this victory.” Nationwide the NDP finished with 24 seats, a loss from the 39 held in the last session of Parliament. Under the new leadership of Andrew Scheer, the Conservatives gained 26 seats, finishing with a total of 121. But this fell short of the victory they pushed for over Justin Trudeau’s Liberals, who lost their majority to form a minority government with 157 seats. Continued on Page 2

supplied photo

NDP leader Jagmeet Singh meets with Courtenay-Alberni MP Gord Johns.

Elders thrilled as Rainbow Gardens opens 20 new seniors’ apartments Denise Titian, Ha-Shilth-Sa Reporter Port Alberni, BC – Older Nuu-chahnulth people living on fixed incomes now have a new, more dignified option when it comes to housing now that Tsawaayuus Rainbow Gardens is accepting applications for 20 brand new independent living units. Gerri Thomas, administrator at Tsawaayuus Rainbow Gardens, is pleased to announce that 20 newly constructed apartment units are quickly filling up – and most of the new tenants are Nuuchah-nulth-aht. “The Rainbow Gardens Board of Directors have a community of care philosophy that is used to provide services to the elders in our community,” she said. Their mandate, she went on to say, is to have a facility for First Nations people with First Nations staff to help them. The new apartments are locked and secure. Each unit has one bedroom and they are designed for people with mobility issues. “They are air conditioned, have on-site laundry and each unit has a small patio,” said Thomas. New tenant Patti Frank of Ahousaht will be moving in Nov. 1. Her independent living apartment is a far cry from the tiny, cold, damp basement apartment she was renting for $750 a month.

Denise Titian photo

Patti Frank stands outside her new home at Tsawaayuus Rainbow Gardens, one of the 20 independent living units recently made available for seniors with the facility’s expansion in Port Alberni. “It was so cold, my arthritis would flare up,” she said. Shelley Frank is Patti’s daughter and works at Tsawaayuus. She said the upstairs unit above her mother’s apartment would leak, and the bathroom was directly above her bed. “I don’t know how many times I had to go get her at night because it was leaking,” she shared. Shelley has been working prospective tenants through the application process. There are ten units on each side of the single-story building. One side is independent living and the other side is wheelchair-friendly.

Inside this issue... Nahmint logging.........................................................Page 3 All Nations Room at hospital.....................................Page 6 Homelessness in Victoria............................................Page 8 Serpent sculpture..................................................... Page 10 Indigenous tourism...................................................Page 15

The units are not furnished. Tsawaayuus has a heat room that treats the furniture and belongings of new tenants to remove the threat of pests. Tenant’s rent is paid for by 30 percent of their income, which is not much when you’re on a fixed-income pension, said Shelly, and any costs not covered by this are subsidized by BC Housing. In addition, tenants pay for their utilities, phone, cable and/or internet. They may opt into the Alberni Lifeline service which supplies them with a device that allows them to get help in a medical emergency. New tenants also enjoy complimentary free cable until April 2020.

A walkway has been built around the perimeter of the building making a safe space for the seniors to get some exercise. There are plans to plant blueberry bushes along the path with fruit trees on the property. “We want to make an edible garden so that the elders can harvest the fruit and make what they want from it,” said Thomas. Of the 17 new tenants who are signed up, 15 are Nuu-chah-nulth with eight fluent speakers. This will allow them to communicate with one another in their first language in a time when opportunities for having a conversation with a fluent Nuu-chah-nulth speaker is rare. There is a gathering space in the facility that will allow for group celebrations or cultural gatherings. With the interest in saving the Nuu-chah-nulth language at its highest, the Franks believe there will be plenty of visitors looking to talk to the fluent speakers. “I feel excited, happy to be on this new adventure,” said Patti. She knows most of the new tenants and says it’s like family getting together. Rainbow Gardens built the new units in association with BC Housing. While the units are filling up quickly, Thomas says there are still two units available; both are wheelchair friendly. Contact Shelly Frank at Rainbow Gardens to enquire.

If undeliverable, please return to: Ha-Shilth-Sa P.O. Box 1383, Port Alberni, B.C. V9Y 7M2

Page 2— Ha-Shilth-Sa—October 24, 2019

Nuu-chah-nulth leaders reflect on election outcome The next minority government will force Liberals to compromise and allow treaties to progress, say chiefs Denise Titian, Ha-Shilth-Sa Reporter Canada – The election is over, and although little has changed with federal party representation on Vancouver Island, the Conservatives under Andrew Scheer surged ahead in the polls, while under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, the reelected Liberal Party lost majority power. The Liberals won a minority government, meaning they don’t have enough votes in Parliament to pass bills on their own. Political pundits speculate that this will force Trudeau to work with elected NDP representatives, like the three who were elected in Nuu-chah-nulth territories on Oct. 21. There are three political ridings that overlap Nuu-chah-nulth territories. On the north island, Rachel Blaney of the NDP will continue to represent the Nuu-chah-nulth nations of Kyuquot, Ehattesaht, Nuchatlaht, and Mowachaht/ Muchalaht. For the central part of Nuu-chah-nulth territories, Gord John of the NDP took nearly half the votes. He will continue to represent Hesquiaht, Ahousaht, Tla-oqui-aht, Tseshaht, Hupacasath, Ucluelet, Uchucklesaht, Toquaht and Huu-ay-aht for another four years. In the Cowichan-Malahat-Langford riding lies Ditidaht and Pacheedaht. Incumbent Alistair MacGregor of the NDP was also re-elected. Blaney was quoted as saying she is elated by the party’s chance to hold the balance of power in a minority government.

Huu-ay-aht Chief Councillor Robert Dennis Sr. said that they invited the candidates running for election in the Courtenay-Alberni riding to Anacla to hear their concerns. NDP candidate Gord Johns accepted an invitation to tour the territories and to hear the people. “We shared our three top priorities with him,” said Dennis. One: upgrade the road to Bamfield. Two: Press for the implementation of the ‘Me Too’ clause in the Maa-nulth Treaty (Ahousaht Fisheries court case). Three: Housing. “We asked him to champion Huu-ay-aht causes if he gets back into office,” continued Dennis, adding that he is encouraged and happy that Johns won the riding. “They (the elected NDP MPs) have an opportunity to work together (with the reelected Liberal government) and advance reconciliation.” Huu-ay-aht sent letters outlining the same issues to the other candidates in the Courtenay-Alberni riding. According to Dennis, the Conservative candidate, Byron Horner, did not respond. However, the other parties responded in a positive way, according to Dennis. Ditidaht elected Chief Brian Tate is relieved that the Ditidaht/Pacheedaht treaty negotiations can continue without any foreseeable delays. “The last change of government [four years ago when the Conservatives lost to the Liberals] the changeover delayed our treaty negotiations by a year,” he noted. With the Liberals still in power, Tate thinks treaty will continue moving. Tate says most of his people living in

Election results continued from Page 1

The Green Party gained one seat, adding a victory in Frederickton, New Brunswick to their two returning incumbents, Paul Manly and Elizabeth May on Vancouver Island. The Bloc Quebecois saw huge gains, increasing their representatives in Ottawa from 10 to 32. “It’s a huge relief. That was a long and hard campaign,” said MacGregor while celebrating his NDP victory in CowichanMalahat-Langford. He heard affordability struggles throughout his riding, where MacGregor claimed 36 per cent of the vote, beating the Conservatives, Greens and Liberals. “We live in a very wealthy country, but in my riding we have still very high rates of poverty, very high rates of people who are struggling to get by,” he said, adding that housing was a prominent concern with First Nation constituents. “We need to have a government that is prepared to develop an Indigenous-led housing strategy…one that addresses providing a supply of adequate, culturally sensitive, affordable housing.” Rachel Blaney noted the social issues faces by First Nations communities in her North Island-Powell River riding. “I heard from my riding a lot of concerns about building up the economies in their communities, looking at economic marginalization,” she said. “A lot of concerns about young people and the challenges they’re facing. We have a couple of communities that have lost loved ones to suicide and want to address those issues that really need to be dealt with.” Unlike many regions in central and Atlantic Canada, the Liberals finished low in many Vancouver Island ridings, often coming third or fourth behind the Conser-

Eric Plummer photo

Nuu-chah-nulth-aht drum as they await Jagmeet Singh on Oct. 18.

vative and Green candidates. MacGregor noted the distinction Vancouver Island showed in the election this fall. “We often don’t go with the consensus that is in Eastern Canada,” he said. “We are very much influenced and informed by the deep and very rich cultural history of First Nations here, and we care deeply about our environment, so any MP that is elected from the seven Vancouver Island ridings is certainly going to come to Ottawa with those priorities.” Blaney expects that a Liberal minority could better serve Canadians. “When you have a minority government, the voices of people are heard more clearly, I find, and I think some the best decisions this country has made have been with minority governments,” she said. Blaney alluded to the Trudeau government’s decision over the last term to not implement a more proportional system of electoral representation. Keeping the existing system ended up serving the Liberals, as the Conservatives actually earned one a half per cent more votes across Canada. “The last election we were told that there would be no more first past the post, that it would be a more proportional system,” she said. “People are feeling that they still want something to change in their democracy - they’re wanting to hear a broader range of voices.”

Ditidaht territories voted NDP. “The NDP candidate Alistair MacGregor won, so our people got what they wanted,” he added. Ahousaht elected Chief Greg Louie is also pleased that Gord Johns won the riding. “Our region is strong NDP and Ahousaht has always had a good relationship with Gord,” Louie told Ha-Shilth-Sa. He offers his congratulations to Johns, saying he appreciates that he maintains good communication with Ahousaht. “Before he goes to Ottawa he will call and ask if we need him to speak on our issues in the House,” said Louie. He went to say that Johns has a proven track record of raising Nuu-chah-nulth issues including fisheries concerns, climate change, and he presses for progress in Ahousaht specific claims to land in Ahousaht territories. Louie says housing issues need to be addressed in Ottawa, as well as help for the most vulnerable – those living on social assistance in isolated communities. “We look forward to improvement, to moving forward. Hopefully the Liberals will keep their promises about reconciliation,” said Louie. NTC President Judith Sayers says she is happy that Conservative Andrew Scheer didn’t get in as Prime Minister. “I think this is the best possible situation; with Trudeau not getting a majority he is going to have to build alliances with one of the other parties,” she said. She noted that Trudeau’s climate change plan is inadequate and won’t reduce

greenhouse gasses quickly enough to mitigate climate change. Sayers pointed out that Trudeau made only one reference to Canada’s Indigenous peoples in his acceptance speech. “I am concerned about the lack of Indigenous issues mentioned in his speech; what about reconciliation? Are we not his priority anymore?” she asked. Prior to the election the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal found that First Nations children in on-reserve child welfare care were being discriminated against. The tribunal ordered the federal government to pay $40,000 to each child. Payments are to go to those who were apprehended or taken from their homes on reserve, no matter what the reason. The ruling covers all children in the care of the on-reserve child welfare system at any point from Jan.1, 2006 to a date to be determined by the tribunal. “He wants to appeal that,” said Sayers of Prime Minister Trudeau. Sayers went on to say that Gord Johns works tirelessly for the local First Nations and she is pleased that he won with such a large percentage of votes. The Council of Ha’wiih gave Gord Johns a name at the last Forum on Fisheries. Sayers explained this name is ciqh=sii, which means speaker of the Ha’wiih (hereditary Chiefs). With the possible scenario of a Liberal minority government having to work with the NDP, things could improve on the west coast. “It’s a new day, a new beginning,” said Sayers.

October 24, 2019—Ha-Shilth-Sa—Page 3

Nahmint logging broke rules, investigation claims Forest ministry denies violations despite felling of ancient giants Mike Youds Ha-Shilth-Sa Contributor Port Alberni, BC - Logging of ancient fir trees in Nahmint Valley is expected to continue despite investigations that point to violations of old-growth protections by the government’s timber auction agency. Why? “That’s the way it’s always been,” said Brandy Lauder, Hupacasath First Nation councillor and natural resource manager. Lauder doesn’t expect any great consequence from an ongoing investigation of Nahmint logging by the B.C. Forest Practices Board and wasn’t surprised to learn the results of internal investigations by the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations. “The only way this is going to change is if (Premier John) Horgan himself gets involved and says this is going to stop,” Lauder said. “Otherwise it’s just going to carry on.” Reports on internal investigations, one by the ministry’s Compliance and Enforcement Branch (CEB), were obtained through Freedom of Information requests from the Victoria-based conservation group Ancient Forest Alliance (AFA). After visiting Nahmint logging sites in 2018, the group lodged a series of complaints against B.C. Timber Sales, the ministry agency responsible for auctioning timber cut blocks in Crown forest. The CEB investigation concluded the Nahmint forest stewardship plan doesn’t comply with old-growth biodiversity protections in VILUP, the Vancouver Island Land Use Plan, and warned of long-term impacts on a land base designated as a special management zone. “Our assessment suggests that the Nahmint demonstrates failure of professional reliance at maintaining publicly agreed upon values and priorities,” the report concludes. While there has been some consultation with First Nations over logging in the Nahmint, Tseshaht and Hupacasath have been negotiating with the province for greater authority over forest management in the valley, unceded territory 30 kilometres south of Port Alberni. Tseshaht is aiming for a cedar management strategy and share decision-making as part of talks around a reconciliation agreement. Ucluelet also considers Nahmint part of its traditional territory. “It’s constant negotiation,” Lauder said. While some limited protections are in place for sacred sites and cultural values, they fall far short of expectations in a valley cherished by all, one of few left unlogged until recent years. “They’re only protecting what is nonoperable,” such as steep-slope trees that would require heli-logging, Lauder said. “It’s really restrictive when they try to do this.” According to forest ministry figures, there are 250 ancient trees protected within the Nahmint’s old-growth forest and 2,760 hectares of the valley will be left in its natural state. Special management zones require an all-encompassing plan for biodiversity, all that needs protection in the valley, the “monumentals” as well as the trees that will grow to be monumental and the plants and animals that rely on them, Lauder explained. In August 2018, Hupacasath council

Mike Youds photo

Andrea Inness stands atop a 700-year-old Douglas fir in the Nahmint Valley, where the B.C. government plans to continue logging old-growth forest.

“The only way this is going to change is if (Premier John) Horgan himself gets involved and says this is going to stop. Otherwise it’s just going to carry on.” ~ Brandy Lauder, Hupacasath First Nation councillor called on the provincial government to halt logging, a call echoed by environmental groups. Chief Councillor Steve Tatoosh raised concerns about unnecessary harvesting of old growth in contradiction of the NDP’s 2017 campaign promises, undermining government-togovernment consultation. In early October, Green Party MLA Adam Olsen raised the Nahmint controversy in the B.C. legislature. “Two separate investigations appear to have found that B.C. Timber Sales are auctioning off cut blocks that are violating their own rules,” Olsen said. He raised the report’s recommendations to halt logging and put future logging plans on hold in the Nahmint. “Yet the logging of this pristine valley continues with no end in sight.” Responding to the criticism, Forests Minister Doug Donaldson defended the government’s track record. Donaldson cited the province’s legacy tree policy, which they promised to strengthen after AFA raised public objections to old-growth logging in the Nahmint. An old-growth strategic review panel will be travelling the province to report back next year with recommendations on strategic policy, he added. “Staff in my ministry are currently working as part of a working group with First Nations and staff from B.C. Timber Sales (BCTS) to legalize old growth management areas (OGMA) in the Nahmint Valley,” Donaldson said. “This involves using new and up-to-date information and incorporating other important values

including legacy trees and large cultural trees to ensure additional protection.” Lauder said the OMGAs in their current form don’t fully represent the biodiversity that needs to be protected. AFA contends that the Nahmint investigations confirm too much old growth forest is being logged in the valley, a practice they say extends across B.C. “Legalizing the OGMAs would essentially allow BCTS get away with years of non-compliant logging in the Nahmint Valley,” said Andrea Inness of the Ancient Forest Alliance. “But it’s not enough to ensure that future planning is compliant with B.C.’s outdated, proindustry laws. There is an urgent need for sweeping changes to B.C.’s forest system, starting with legislation that prioritizes biodiversity and ecological integrity over timber supply.” FLNRO maintains the internal investigations found no violations. “The CEB investigation did not conclude there was a violation,” a ministry spokesperson stated, responding to questions via email. “The investigation into compliance with the Forest Stewardship Plan was identified as being outside of the scope of the CEB investigation.” Referring specifically to OMGAs, BCTS maintains that the draft Nahmint landscape unit plan achieves VILUP requirements for old-growth ecosystems, biodiversity, wildlife habitat and cultural trees valued by First Nations. Despite the apparent contradiction and an ongoing review by the B.C. Forest Practices Board, BCTS plans to auction

an additional 490,000 cubic metres of Nahmint trees next spring, overriding the government’s own protective order and the area’s special status. “The Nahmint Valley was never intended to be logged like they are,” said Bryce Casavant, a Port Alberni resident who conducted the CEB investigation and later left the forests ministry. “It was specifically closed as a special management zone,” he said. “Those intentions of conserving that area have not been abided by.” Non-compliance and over-harvesting are fairly regular occurrences throughout the coast, but this case was different, Casavant said. Nahmint Valley is one of only two areas in B.C. designated as special management zones in recognition of the need to preserve biodiversity and old growth. He concluded that OMGAs are out of date and inadequate for ensuring old-growth biodiversity. Despite a decade of logging, there may still be time to properly protect the valley’s old growth in keeping with the land use plan, Casavant said. The forest practices review is scheduled for completion by year’s end. “They don’t point fingers,” Inness said of the forest practices board. “They will do a thorough job and they will make recommendations.” Results will be made public, Donaldson said in the legislature last week. AFA, meanwhile, continues to call for an immediate halt to logging in the Nahmint and other old-growth “hot spots,” urging the province to modernize its land-use planning in partnership with First Nations. What they hope not to see is more ancient giants levelled in the Nahmint Valley. “This is unacceptable,” Inness said. “The B.C. regulatory system was already failing to protect biodiversity.”

Page 4— Ha-Shilth-Sa—October 24, 2019

Yaakswiis Warriors photo

Lennie John gets arrested during a 2015 protest at a Clayoquot Sound fish farm. While many oppose the industry, others in remote locations rely on its employment.

Fish farm election pledge condemned by industry Liberal platform promises end to open pen fish farming by 2025, a measure some warn will harm First Nations Mike Youds Ha-Shilth-Sa Contributor Tofino, BC - A Liberal Party campaign pledge to transition to closed-containment salmon farming on the B.C. coast within five years has drawn swift condemnation from the industry and skepticism from First Nation communities. “In British Columbia, we will work with the province to develop a responsible plan to transition from open net pen salmon farming in coastal waters to closed containment systems by 2025,” the platform declares. Released Sept. 29, halfway through the federal election campaign, the policy goes well beyond the government’s own position on open net pen salmon farming. In June, Fisheries Minister Jonathan Wilkinson announced a “precautionary approach” for aquaculture, stricter measures to monitor and contain fish diseases while working with industry on production technologies including closed containment. The policy not only flies in the face of the government’s recent initiatives to work with coastal stakeholders, it throws into question the whole purpose of the strategy, said John Paul Fraser of the B.C. Salmon Farming Association. “B.C. salmon farmers work in deep and respectful relationships with coastal Indigenous communities, with more than 70 per cent of the farmed salmon harvested in B.C. done so in partnership and with impact benefits agreements with local First Nations,” Fraser said in a news release last week. “The Liberal Party’s ill-advised platform commitment puts Indigenous economic opportunity at risk.” Fraser said the Liberals are pandering to urban voters. Within the last six months, the Liberal

government has engaged stakeholders, including First Nations, in a series of aquaculture strategies, including an independent advisory committee, a move to area-based management and a technological review. At no point was there any mention of shifting to closed containment by 2025, an impossible goal that would drive companies out of the industry, Fraser said. “We’re just treated like castaways and callously thrown under the bus,” he said. Wilkinson responded to the platform policy backlash by suggesting a five-year transition is a realistic time frame, one he believes can be met. No fewer than 100 federal election candidates, NDP and Green as well as Liberal, have made the same commitment according to the lobby group Wildfirst. Wildfirst formed six years ago after the former Harper Conservative government announced an expansion of Atlantic salmon farming on the B.C. coast despite warnings sounded by the Cohen Commission on Fraser River sockeye a year earlier. Wildfirst’s list of supporters lists wellknown Indigenous people, including local leaders Ted Walkus, hereditary chief of Wuikinuxv First Nation and Robert Chamberlin, chief councillor of Kiwikiwasutinuxw Haxwa’mis First Nation, and artist Roy Henry Vickers of Tofino. Many others along the coast — convinced that marine-based salmon farming exposes wild fish to disease — believe the transition can’t come soon enough. In August, the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs backed Namgis First Nation in its call for an end to open net pen farming. “We don’t have that much time,” said Lennie John, an Ahousaht water taxi operator and a vocal opponent of open net pen farming. “The sooner the better. Our wild stocks don’t have that kind of time

with the rate they’re declining.” John estimated that half the people in Ahousaht now agree with that contention, a major shift in opinions within the last few years. Among west coast First Nation communities the issue is a divisive one because members rely on fish farming for income in coastal regions where other work is in short supply. There are, however, a growing number of voices speaking out against open net pen practices as an unacceptable risk to wild salmon stocks. Public demonstrations, including a flotilla that boarded a Creative Salmon fish farm and documented fish disease, took place last summer. Cermaq maintains that sea lice levels at its Clayoquot fish farms have been low after an early harvest and closure of two farms in 2019. The local opposition group Clayoquot Action claims otherwise, pointing to sea lice levels that have risen at farms where the company has been testing its Hydrolicer. “The Warriors will stand up again,” John said, alluding to the 2015 occupation of a Flores Island fish farm by an Ahousaht group, Yaakswiis Warriors. Four members including John were convicted in 2016 of mischief and intimidation for attempting to block restocking of a Cermaq fish farm. John said the thousands of jobs cited by industry would not make up for the loss of wild salmon. “It would be something if they got rid of (open net pens) in five years, but this is the point of no return for wild salmon,” he said, suggesting more stocks will collapse within the next couple of years. “That’s how fast they’re declining. The only reason that nothing’s being done is that certain people’s pockets are being lined.

The industry maintains that closed containment technology has not yet been proven on a commercial scale, though it is on the horizon. “Technology is currently developing and we certainly anticipate closed containment systems will play a larger role in the future,” Fraser said. “But to forcefully mandate a five-year ‘transition’ is unachievable, especially when there is no business case or transition plan behind it. This is a recipe for industry stagnation and significant unemployment.” Fraser pointed to progress in the form of a technical working group, engaging all levels of government, First Nations and non-government organizations, to come up with technological innovation. “In fact, a draft report commissioned by the minister that is being deliberated by the working group concludes that ‘the new technologies discussed in this report, as well as conventional net pen systems, will all play a role in contributing to global production of salmon products,’” he noted. Fraser said the industry will have to wait until after the election to see if strategies focused on charting the future of salmon farming can be salvaged. Meanwhile, a transition is already well underway in the Broughton Archipelago, which lies in Kiwikiwasutinuxw Haxwa’mis. Five salmon farms have closed, five more are scheduled for closure in 2022 and seven more by 2024. The move is critical for wild salmon stocks, Premier John Horgan told a conference in September. Horgan also announced agreements between the Namgis, Mamalilikulla and Kiwikiwasutinuxw Haxwa’mis to adopt an Indigenous monitoring and inspection plan for fish farms in the archipelago.

October 24, 2019—Ha-Shilth-Sa—Page 5

No consent on offshore protection: Tseshaht rep A Pacific area more than twice the size of Vancouver Island could gain legal protection from industrial activity Eric Plummer Ha-Shilth-Sa Editor Port Alberni, BC - The push to increase the amount of Canada’s ocean that is protected from exploration and mining is being done without First Nations consent, according to Tseshaht Councillor Hugh Braker. Braker delivered his comments on a proposed marine protected area west of Vancouver Island during a recent Council of Ha’wiih Forum on Fisheries. Comprising a vast territory more than twice the size of the island, the 139,700-squarekilometre area was designated as an offshore area of interest by Fisheries and Oceans Canada in 2017. “I don’t want somebody telling me they’re going to decide how Tseshaht is going to manage its territory,” said Braker during the forum on Oct. 7 in Port Alberni. “I have attended the meetings on behalf of Tseshaht, and our position has been consistent: We claim the territory extending out into the ocean. The people have a story about a great harpooner who harpooned a whale, and he was taken out for four days and four nights. The whale dragged his canoe out into the ocean for four days and four nights before it finally died and he was able to start bringing it back to the people.” The area of interest could soon become a marine protected area, which would legally prohibit certain industrial activities. Besides Explorer, it contains at least another 45 underwater mountains formed by shifting tectonic plates. “Canada’s MPAs will now function similar to our national parks, providing a high level of environmental protection by including new standards that prohibit four key industrial activities: oil and gas activities, mining, dumping and bottom trawling,” states DFO material about marine protected areas. This designation puts the Liberals on pace to honour the commitment of a 10-per-cent increase to Canada’s marine protected areas by 2020. But the Tseshaht have been left out of the conservation initiative, said Braker. “I objected in the meetings we had, because there is no recognition of our rights and title,” he said. “Once again somebody, the federal government, wants to make decisions about our territory for us.” Braker compared the proposed marine protected area to the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, which includes Tseshaht territory. He’s concerned the First Na-

Shelton Dupreez/DFO photo

The Canadian Coast Guard vessel J.P. Tully ventured west of Vancouver Island in July to explore part of a massive area the federal government is considering protecting from oil and mining exploration.

“I don’t want somebody telling me they’re going to decide how Tseshaht is going to manage its territory” ~ Hugh Braker tion’s tuna fishing could be affected by a change in offshore designation. “The Tseshaht have a real problem with Parks Canada. They administer the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, and they have claimed a huge part of our territory, the Broken Islands, as a park reserve, and now they’re claiming a huge offshore area as a marine protected area,” stressed Braker. “I can’t even get Parks Canada and DFO to sit down with Tseshaht to talk about how we’re going to harvest seafood in the Broken Group. They won’t even come to the table and sit with us, and if that’s an example of what the future is for the offshore, then we’re just making bigger problems.” The DFO launched a two-week expedition through the offshore area in July, when a team of researchers ventured 150 nautical miles west of Vancouver Island to examine the Explorer Seamount, which is considered to be the largest underwater volcano in Canadian wa-

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ters. The federal department included a Nuu-chah-nulth presence on this trip by bringing Tseshaht member Joshua Watts and Aline Carrier, Uu-a-thluk’s capacity building coordinator. During a presentation at the fisheries forum Carrier noted that the sea mount’s unique ecosystem was connected to Vancouver Island’s forests. “A tree on the coastal forest is related to a tree in the ocean,” she said. “The fish are feeding on plankton, and during the migration pattern they are going back to the coast. Then there are a lot of predators, the carcass of the fish is composted in the forest and giving food to the trees. So this way, everything is connected.” Watts found traditional Nuu-chah-nulth

DFO map

This offshore area of interest could soon be protected under federal law.

ties to life on the underwater volcano. “Seeing the life that’s around the sea mounts made me think a lot about the origin stories along the coast of a village of the salmon people and the oral histories around how the salmon chiefs lived in a place of abundance,” he said. “In our oral histories our people would go out to visit them to request that the salmon would come back.

Page 6— Ha-Shilth-Sa—October 24, 2019 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

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$35 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 Eric Plummer (Ext. 243) (250) 724-5757 Fax: (250) 723-0463 eric.plummer@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 Editorial Assistant Deborah Potter (Ext. 286) (250) 724-5757 - Fax:(250) 723-0463 deborah.potter@nuuchahnulth.org

DEADLINE: Please note that the deadline for submissions for our next issue is November 1, 2019 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 Eric.Plummer@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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Gathering space opens at West Coast General All Nations Room provides a culturally safe space for Aboriginal patients and families By Karly Blats Ha-Shilth-Sa Contributor Port Alberni, BC - Close to fifty people filled the atrium at West Coast General Hospital (WCGH) on Oct. 11 to witness a ceremonial grand opening of the All Nations Room—a welcoming space developed for Aboriginal patients and their families. The All Nations Room is a space where families can gather to share traditional healing practices and ceremonies, such as prayer and ritual cleansing. The West Coast General Hospital Cultural Safety Committee proposed an All Nations Room at WCGH in 2014. Representatives from the Tseshaht, Hupacasath, Uchucklesaht, Ditidaht and Huuay-aht First Nations, the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council, three local health service providers, Island Health and the First Nations Health Authority worked together to turn the room into reality. The West Coast General Hospital Foundation provided $10,000 to furnish the space. “What I heard at the table is it was really importable for people to have a space where they can practice their ways and be able to share each other’s medicines,” said Janice Johnson, community engagement coordinator with the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA). “It’s a room that’s really needed…it’s been in the works for a long time. It’s basically a safe space for people to gather and for others to learn about who we are.” The room is located near the cafe in the main lobby of WCGH and features a kitchenette, and space for food preparation. The grand opening included song, dance and drumming by Nuu-chah-nulth people and a ribbon cutting. “The All Nations Room reflects a commitment from Island Health to ensure that First Nations people and other Indigenous peoples feel welcomed and respected when they come to West Coast General Hospital,” said Ian Knipe, director of Aboriginal health for Island Health. Brennan MacDonald, executive director with the FNHA, said the relationships built through the planning process and Cultural Safety Committee have been

Karly Blats photo

Benedict Leonard, Bella Fred and Kanowish, Alan Ross, cut the ribbon to officially open the All Nations Room at West Coast General Hospital on Oct. 11 very valuable and have helped create a space for important conversations and future collaborations towards cultural safety. “Cultural safety is a priority that our nations have spoken clearly about and improvements to experiences of care, particularly in our hospitals, is something that they care deeply for,” MacDonald said. “Seeing all of the partners come together in support of starting to bring about positive change like what we witnessed today is really a positive occasion but it’s also a first step. There’s much more we get to do together.” Sheila Leadbetter, executive director of clinical services at Island Health, said All Nations Rooms are being developed in each Island community where there’s a hospital. “We also have a regional project committee where we come together and share this important work and strategize on our plans for culturally safe care throughout our whole health care system,” Leadbetter said. “Island Health senior leadership is fully committed to improving care experiences for Indigenous populations on Vancouver Island.” During a speech, Judith Sayers, Nuuchah-nulth Tribal Council president, said

the addition of the All Nations Room is helping to make “the hospital our own.” “When we go to visit someone who’s sick we bring them medicine, we bring them that love and that caring that they need to get better,” Sayers said. “I think there’s a lot more work that could be done...let’s make this place our own.” Sayers also mentioned that because First Nations people typically have larger families, having a space that can accommodate all of them is really important. The All Nations Room is available 24/7 on a first come first serve basis.

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“What I heard at the table is it was really important for people to have a space where they can practice their ways and be able to share each other’s medicines.” ~ Janice Johnson, First Nations Health Authority

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 holly.stocking@nuuchahnulth.org. This year is Ha-Shilth-Sa’s 45th year of serving the Nuu-chah-nulth First Nations. We look forward to your continued input and support. Kleco! Kleco!

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October 24, 2019—Ha-Shilth-Sa—Page 7

Ferocity and compassion: Hesquiaht mourn leader Richard Lucas was found in his home at Hot Springs Cove on Oct. 21, leaving behind a long legacy to his nation Eric Plummer Ha-Shilth-Sa Editor Port Alberni, BC - Nuu-chah-nulth communities were shocked to hear of the sudden passing of a Hesquiaht leader on Monday, leaving many to wonder how the man’s combination of compassion and fierce advocacy for his nation will ever be replaced. Richard Lucas was found in his home at Hot Springs Cove on Oct. 21, after several calls by family and friends went unreturned. The cause of death has yet to be finalized, but Bruce Lucas said his brother likely had a heart attack. “He did a lot for our family, our tribe,” said Bruce. “He always looked after us, all of us, right until the very end.” Among the roles he served for the Hesquiaht were numerous terms as chief councillor, the most recent stint Lucas had been serving since 2015. Ha’wilth Vince Ambrose had worked with Lucas since the 1990s. “He knew the issues when it came to fisheries or health or all that we deal with for our community and our nation,” said the hereditary chief. “It kind of looks like he passed away in his sleep.” Lucas came from a generation that still remembers when the First Nation’s main reserve was in its home territory at Hesquiaht Harbour, at the northern end of Clayoquot Sound. At the age of seven he was enrolled in the Christie Residential School on Meares Island, where he remained until 1965. At the age of 16 Lucas quit school to return to family, and as a young man moved to Hot Springs Cove, where the Hesquiaht had been relocated in the early 1960s. Most of the village was destroyed in the 1964 tsunami, but in 1967 a house was available where Lucas could live with others to work in the logging industry. Despite the absence of a gym, basketball was a big part of these years, recall those close to Lucas. “He was an incredible jumper,” said Bruce. “He was shorter than me and he

Eric Plummer photo

Richard Lucas’ advocacy for his people ended with a term as chief councillor. could play against the big guys.” Lucas’ playing time ended with an injury, but this began his legacy as a coach. Bruce was on the Hesquiaht Warriors when they won the Junior All-Native Tournament in 1977. “He wasn’t just our coach, he looked after us,” said the brother. “All the players he coached, he maintained a special bond with them.” Throughout his adulthood Lucas’ leadership continued. He served as the Hesquiaht’s chief treaty negotiator and treaty office manager for several years, as well as multiple terms on elected council. “We’ve had our ups and downs dealing with political decisions and stuff like that,” reflected Ambrose. “It goes with any leadership; we always have to iron out our differences, but we’ve always worked good together.” Lucas’ more recent work includes the development of a hydroelectric project in Hot Springs Cove. By harnessing the natural flow of Ahtaapq Creek, the run-of-the-river initiative is designed to lessen the remote community’s reliance on diesel for power, which is regularly

barged in from Tofino at a cost of over half a million dollars annually. That project currently hinges on federal assistance for completion. Lucas witnessed the collapse of West Coast fishing – and how First Nations lost their place in the industry as regulations became insurmountable. During a Council of Ha’wiih Forum on Fisheries in June he delivered a stern address to officials from Fisheries and Oceans Canada, declaring that the Hesquiaht would be implementing their own controlled sea otter harvest as a measure to manage resources in the territory. “We look after the hahoulthee,” said Lucas. “If Canada won’t cooperate with us,

then I think it’s time we took some action and we shut down the sports fishery.” “The Nuu-chah-nulth have lost a great leader and warrior for our people,” said NTC President Judith Sayers in a statement. “Richard made a lasting impact on Nuu-chah-nulth-aht. We won’t forget him and his tireless efforts to make our lives better for many generations to come.” “I’m just devastated, to be honest,” admitted Gord Johns after winning the Courtenay-Alberni riding in the federal election on Oct. 21. “He was persistent and he advocated so hard and from his heart for the people of Hesquiaht, for Nuu-chah-nulth people.” Despite his tough stance on some issues, Bruce saw his brother become more compassionate in his senior years. “His role never really changed,” said Bruce. “He’d phone me at least once a week.” Nuchatlaht Councillor Archie Little also attended residential school for many years. He shared with Lucas the desire to make a better childhood for the young ones around them. “We had a hard life, very hard to communicate sometimes, very angry sometimes – but we worked on it,” said Little. “He was my best friend,” he added. “The part that I like best was that my friend could be like a little boy and laugh like a little boy.” Richard Lucas turned 70 on Oct. 6. He leaves behind eight children: R.J., Tammy, Dawn, Ander, Orlena, Kathy, Jeannette and Jared. He is predeceased by his son Alexander.

Page 8— Ha-Shilth-Sa—October 24, 2019

Shirley Jones, above, and Georgina Williams, right, stand at Our Place Society on Pandora Avenue, which provides services to many of Victoria’s residents who struggle with homelessness. Jones works at the site, while Williams volunteers each day.

On Pandora Avenue in downtown Victoria a hive of activity fills the sidewalk in front of the safe dru

Homelessness among Victoria’s First Nation This winter shelters are expanding services, with one third of the city’s homeless identifying as Aboriginal Eric Plummer Ha-Shilth-Sa Editor Victoria, BC – On Pandora Street in downtown Victoria a hive of activity fills the sidewalk in front of the safe drug injection site. Amid the random cluster of shopping carts, bicycles and tents, people franticly converse and exchange in what appears to be an outdoor market in a continual state of flux. At the end of the block a man is collapsed on the boulevard grass, his belongings strewn about. Down the other side of the street a stoic police officer stands nearby the sidewalk hustle. Next to the safe injection site is Our Place Society, where Shirley Jones undertakes her daily custodial duties, while conversing and joking with the clients of the facility, which offers services to those who struggle with homelessness. It’s Sept. 24, and although Jones is celebrating her ninth year of sobriety, the issues faced by many on the streets of downtown Victoria are never far away. Now she speaks at events for Our Place, recounting her recovery from years of being in the grip of drug and alcohol addiction. “It was horrible; it withered your body and wellbeing,” recalls Jones, a member of the Pacheedaht First Nation. “I woke up every day and I didn’t think about eating. ‘Where is my drink, how am I going to get it?’ Or before I went to sleep I would hide something so I had something when I opened my eyes.” Like many on Victoria’s streets, the escalation of Jones’ habits led to her being without a home. She admits that everything she thought she would never do she re-

sorted to, including panhandling and prostitution. “I was sometimes in shelters, but mostly in doorways or bushes or bridges. Wherever everybody else was going I would be there,” says Jones. “I’d go and walk around all night, because if I didn’t, I probably wouldn’t have woken up. I would have frozen to death.” An unwelcome world each morning Our Place Society advocates for, supports and, if necessary, shelters Victoria’s most vulnerable. With shelters and transitional housing at multiple locations, this fall an additional shelter space was opened at the Pandora Street location, where mats are available seven days a week until the spring. It’s another measure to help a situation that many on the front lines are seeing worsen. “The needs seemed to have intensified in the last while,” comments Holt Sivak, Our Place Society’s director of programs and services. According to a point-in-time count conducted on March 15, 2018, the Greater Victoria Coalition to End Homelessness identifies at least 1,525 people in the Capital Region experiencing some form of homelessness. One third of these people identified as Indigenous, with the highest representation from Nuu-chah-nulth nations. Elsewhere in the city the Victoria Native Friendship Centre has also seen the homeless situation become increasingly urgent. After operating a shelter for over a decade during the coldest and wettest nights of

the winter, last year the friendship centre began offering overnight spaces seven days a week. On Oct. 1 the service resumed, with 25 beds in the facility’s gym until the end of March. Last year after the first three nights the shelter was full, with a waiting list through the winter. “Over the course of the winter about 20 people stayed through the bulk of the winter,” says Executive Director Ron Rice. “What we were seeing was although there are a lot of efforts to adding units to the housing strategy in Victoria, that it wasn’t trickling down to help the homeless population.” Despite the shelter’s efforts to create a sense of dignity and safety, its clients faced an unwelcome world each morning. “Every day at 6 a.m. we would wake them up for breakfast and wish them good luck until 9 o’clock that night,” says Rice, noting that seven days a week the shelter’s clients were faced with where go during daytime hours. “Some of them have a routine, because they know they can’t sit anywhere too long before they get harassed. Some of them have quite an elaborate routine involving bank vestibules and shopping centres, libraries and city hall.” Finding a place to stay during daylight can be particularly challenging for those with a mental illness, adds Tanya Clairmount, the friendship centre’s director of Human Resources and management support. “Some people blend and they can be in spaces longer - but if you’ve been out there for a while, you’re starting to look dishevelled,” she says. Never knowing who your friends are The point-in-time count includes those who are sleeping outside, people staying in

Tanya Clairmount and Ron Rice of the Victoria Native Friendship Centre stand in the facility’s gymnasium, which serves as an overnight shelter over the winter. emergency shelters, individuals in transitional housing and coach surfing. Most rely on disability benefits or social assistance, while addiction or substance use is cited as the foremost reason for housing loss, followed by unemployment or just being unable to pay rent. Sivak believes many of these people are not getting the mental health support they need to sustain housing. “There’s a significant number of people on the street who are not receiving adequate mental health services - who don’t have access to detox beds or the supports they need to move away from the substances that are harming them,” he stresses. “So they wind up turning to substances, turning to alternate strategies to try and cope with their pain and their hurt and just function.” Georgina Williams comes to Our Place every day, usually volunteering at the snack counter. The society has assisted the Ahousaht member secure her own bachelor

October 24, 2019—Ha-Shilth-Sa—Page 9

Eric Plummer photos

“For every person that’s here you could find a different path that got them there” ~ Ron Rice, executive director, Victoria Native Friendship Centre

ug injection site. Ron Rice, right, has seen an increasing need for shelter space at the Victoria Native Friendship Centre.

ns people points to multigenerational issues Housing is not the simple solution

apartment – but it took two years for Williams get a subsidized rental. Her continued involvement at Our Place has helped her to overcome past struggles. “It keeps me from wanting to go back to my addiction with alcohol,” says Williams, who recently lost her sister, Wilma. “A lot of my family passed away and I’m trying not to go back there again.” Williams first struggled with homelessness when she moved to Victoria from Ahousaht nine years ago. She recalls never knowing who her friends were while in the throes of alcoholism. “My addiction was really bad for me,” says Williams. “Get drunk during the morning, pass out at lunchtime, wake up, start all over again. That was my routine for the day, and that was every day for two years.” ‘In the hands of the beast’ Statistics indicate that residential schools and the foster care system continue to be a factor among Victoria’s Indigenous homeless. According to the point-in-time count, 14.6 per cent of Aboriginal respondents attended a residential or Indian day school, while 46.2 per cent were under ministry care as a child. Jones didn’t go to residential school, but her parents were raised in the federally mandated system. Her father attended the Alberni Indian Residential school, while her mother went to a Indian day school in Port Alberni. Learning more about her parents’ past has helped Jones understand the violence she grew up with at home. “I know why they were doing this to me, because it wasn’t just my mother,” she reflects. “I didn’t go to residential school - I wasn’t in the hands of those people - but I was in the hands of the beast they created.”

Roberta Touchie works with beads at Our Place, an activity the Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ First Nation member regularly engages in at the site. Monica Williams, an Aboriginal housing support worker with Our Place, has found that the residential school system has left its impact on those in Victoria who struggle with homelessness. “Residential school is huge factor in the trauma they’ve endured,” she says. “There’s a lot of intergenerational trauma, many of them are active in their addictions.” Jones doesn’t remember going to residential school, but she hasn’t ruled out the possibility that she was a student. “For some reason I think I was. There’s a darkness in my early school years that I don’t remember,” she says. “I remember Grade 2 up. There’s two years that are black.”

On the second floor of the Pandora Street Our Place location Roberta Touchie sits by a window, as the beads she works on are illuminated by the early autumn sun. Sitting with her friend Evelyn Louie, it’s an activity the Yuułuʔiłʔath First Nation member regularly engages in at the site. “I do these little dress earrings, I do medallions and loom work. It makes me extra money,” comments Touchie, who was homeless for three and a half years before attaining subsidized housing in April. She left Ucluelet after her father died in 1976, and has lived in Victoria ever since. She now does outreach work with the Aboriginal Coalition to End Homelessness. She advises that not all of Victoria’s homeless struggle with addictions. “If you’re not secure in yourself, you can end up there too,” says Touchie. “But I’ve always been scared of drugs, so that’s kind of a lucky thing for me.” Regardless of one’s personal challenges, a history of being on the street can bring barriers for a person looking for a home, she adds. “I had good tenancy through my whole life,” Touchie says. “A lot of people are very judgemental; they don’t want to take you in if they know you’ve been on the streets.” An increasingly competitive rental market hasn’t helped either. With a vacancy rate of 1.2 per cent, in 2018 the average bachelor apartment in Victoria was $926, an increase of $142 since 2016. Meanwhile the $375 shelter allowance potion of social assistance has gone unchanged in over a decade. “Most of us are on assistance, and you don’t get enough,” says Touchie. But full-time employment doesn’t necessarily bring in enough for housing in Victo-

ria either, as shown by some of the regular clients who stayed at the friendship centre’s shelter last winter. “There were two guests who worked full time, but couldn’t afford a place to live, and there were a disproportionate number of senior citizens,” says Rice. “For every person that’s here you could find a different path that got them there.” The solution is more complicated than just providing more homes, cautions Sivak. “We do a disservice to people if all we provide is housing,” he says. “Particularly the more vulnerable people, they need personal, psychological and emotional support as well. Otherwise it becomes a cycle: sometimes they end up burning their bridges with landlords and end up on the street.” A critical decision For Shirley Jones, her path of addiction worsened after the deaths of her father and brother, culminating in suicidal ideas at Christmas 2009. But at that critical point she made what has proven to be one of the most important decisions of her life: she reached out for help. “I had to keep running until nine years ago I decided I had to change my life,” she says, admitting that staying clean is still an everyday challenge. “I pray every morning before I come into work.” Jones successfully fought for custody of her grandchildren, refusing to allow them to grow up in foster care. Despite her history of hardship, she believes that justice exists in the world. “I don’t regret being homeless because I learned a lot from being homeless,” says Jones. “I learned to have empathy, I learned to find love.”

Page 10— Ha-Shilth-Sa—October 24, 2019

Artist displays serpent ‘hot rod’ made of cedar ‘Tradition is a living thing,’ says Rodney Sayers, who brings modern influences to a traditional carving medium Salt Spring Island, BC - Hupacasath artist Klehwetua, Rodney Sayers, was honored this past month by a nomination in the Salt Spring National Art Prize (SSNAP)—a competition that happens every two years, and just wrapped up its third season. Over 50 artists from across Canada were selected, out of nearly 1,000 in total, some who entered more than one piece. The format was online only at first, so Sayers (and all the other artists) had to meticulously photograph their work, then write up a quick bio on the work to submit. Three jurors who had never seen the pieces in real life made the decision about who would be in the final 52. “It’s really a massive undertaking. And the fact that there was over 2,000 submissions and they widdled it down to (52) is quite an amazing accomplishment,” said Sayers from the ferry while on his journey home from the exhibition this past weekend. “It was really a diverse selection of works in different media.” Sayers attended the gala hosted by SSNAP Saturday night, Oct. 19, where the final winners in the 10 categories were announced. He didn’t make the cut, but he was happy to have been honored by a nomination, and to see the works from other artists, too. Sayers entered his piece, Serpent GT, an orange and yellow serpent head made from red cedar. It’s a “hot rod” color scheme, with the yellow being placed as a “racing stripe” along the side of it, said the artist. GT stands for Gran Turismo (like the Ferrari). Sayers was raised in Port Alberni, where Hot Rod enthusiasts and their cars were plentiful. As a child, he also had eyes for these toys, but with his age and wisdom, owning one is no longer his goal— though him and his partner do have a 1966 Austin Healy Sprite, which is still fun, he added. Cedar was used due to its prominence in Nuu-chah-nulth culture. “It’s carved from western red cedar, which is one of the main materials of the carving tradition of the Nuu-chah-nulth. And it obviously has thousands of years of history in the art forms of the west coast,” said Sayers. “Not just Nuu-chah-

Submitted photo

Serpent GT by Hupacasath member Rodney Sayers was recently nominated for the Salt Spring National Art Prize. nulth, but most of the west coast nations had access to it and used it. I’m using a material that is rich in those carving traditions.” Serpent GT will be united at some point with a few other pieces he’s currently working on, including two paddles which are also colored with the hot rod theme. It’s part of a package that’s actually been in the process for years, he said, but has taken a while to come together. Because Sayers works--as he describes it--slow and contemplatively, his pieces are moulded as he goes along. There isn’t always a set plan that he follows, so it can take a long time before he completes a project. And sometimes he even needs to walk away from the work before deciding what the finishing touches should be. That happened with Serpent GT, when he

was deciding on the color. “I just happened to have those two jars of paint,” said Sayers. “And I did some tests and I contemplated it. And I thought, ‘Yep. This is how it’s going to be’.” “I’m honoring the art form. I’m not making light of it,” he continued. “What this idea of tradition is, and that tradition is a living thing. It isn’t static. It changes and evolves, and that’s what I believe.” Sayers clarifies that he isn’t making a statement about Nuu-Chah-Nulth culture, or some broader art movement. He speaks only for himself, his work and his beliefs about what he is doing. He consulted with chiefs, elders and various advisors, to ensure he doesn’t cross lines between his playfulness in art and ceremonial regalia. But he does enjoy taking some aspects of culture and mak-

ing people think more deeply about it with the work he does. The serpent is special to him, as well. It comes to him from his grandmother. And so while he added the colors of a hot rod to it, he has the utmost respect for it, too. “It appeared in her dance regalia and her ceremonial regalia. So that was her property,” he said of his grandmother’s connection to the serpent. “It was part of our visual language. So people would see that and they would say, ‘Oh. That belongs to Annie Watts. That’s her property’.” “For me, it’s about that I have these influences, but we don’t live in a vacuum as First Nations people,” reflected Sayers. “People tend to think we shouldn’t be influenced by popular culture, or television or movies. But we are.”

Phrase of the week - K#iicuk#ik

Pronounced ‘quwis cuu quick̓ ’, which translates as ‘A change in the weather’. Supplied by c^iisma

Illustration by Ivy Cargill-Martin

October 24, 2019—Ha-Shilth-Sa—Page 11

Family brings healer back from the brink of death Medical professionals gave up hope, sent elder to palliative care By Denise Titian, Ha-Shilth-Sa Reporter Port Alberni, BC – Joe Tom has spent the last three decades helping people find health, wellness and cultural awareness. But a childhood heart problem resurfaced, forcing him to rely on family and belief systems to save his own life. “I heard a nurse say I wasn’t going to make it, that I’m too weak,” he recalled of a time in early 2018 when he was placed in palliative care. “I was told there was nothing more that could be done.” Tom works as a Senior Cultural Wellness Worker for the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council’s Quu’asa program. He helps people find wellness, in part, by reconnecting them with their Nuu-chahnulth culture and healing methods. “I’ve been doing this kind of work since around 1997,” he shared. He talked about peers that he worked with in the past including Tla-o-qui-aht Ha’wilth Ray Seitcher Sr. Together they shared cultural knowledge and developed methods to reach out to help people. “I don’t own the cultural information I know,” he said, “it comes from our ancestors and it is my interpretation of what I learned.” Tom said he tells people that they can use his knowledge in the best way that helps them. “We actually get people just to smile again, that’s what I love about my job,” he said. Tom was born in Ahousaht in 1944 in his great grandmother’s house. His mother Martha August was from Ahousaht but lived in Hot Springs Cove with her husband Joe Tom Sr. In his first three years he went back and forth between his grandparent’s home in Ahousaht and his parent’s home and in Hot Springs Cove. At age six Tom went to Christie Indian Residential School at Kakawis, where he stayed until 1959. While there he contracted rheumatic fever. Rheumatic fever is a disease that can affect the heart, joints, brain, and skin. Rheumatic fever can develop if strep throat and scarlet fever infections are not treated properly. “I was about 10 and it weakened my heart valves; I was told that it would get worse over time and unless new technology comes up, I would have a short life,” he recalled. The diagnosis didn’t hold Tom back in life. He spent his last two years of schooling in Mission, B.C. at St. Mary’s Indian Residential School and married Regina Amos fresh out of school. The couple had one son, Lenny, together and took in more. “We had Donna, we adopted Larry and we helped raise Brian, Gloria Jean and Charity,” he shared. Having grown up in a blended family, Tom was fortunate to have loving sets of parents. Joe Tom Sr. had children with his former wife Louise. She went on to marry Alex McCarthy. Joe knew her as Mama Louise. “Mama Louise and her husband Alec had a deal with mom and dad,” he recalled. “When the kids were with her, at her house, they were hers and vice versa. I was treated real well there.” He was able to carry these teachings of unconditional love and acceptance forward to the young people that came into his life later on. While his marriage didn’t last, Tom maintained parental relationships with the

Denise Titian photo

Joe Tom recalls an out-of-body experience while he was in surgery. Since then he has been recovering and is back working.

“I heard a nurse say I wasn’t going to make it, that I’m too weak. I was told there was nothing more that could be done.” ~ Joe Tom children he and his former wife raised. During the 1980s, Tom and his then wife Patricia entered into a treatment program, to deal with alcohol and family issues, he said. He followed up at another treatment centre, then began working at Kakawis Family Development Centre, which operated on the grounds of the former Christie Indian Residential School. He later enrolled in a special two-year university program that trained people to work with children and youth; it included a cultural component. Over the years he built on his skills and began working for the NTC Quu’asa Program. His daughter Donna also works for the NTC. “I think it was January, about two years ago at a staff meeting when we noticed he was fatigued and dizzy, so we sent him to emerg,” said Donna, adding that it was not like him to be tired all the time. Tom was sent home took some time off of work to rest, but that didn’t help. He was still tired and having dizzy spells. A check-up revealed that Tom was suffering from internal bleeding. “It was fixed but I needed more surgery on my heart,” he said. Side effects from his medication caused him to lose weight and sleep, and worse, he couldn’t remember things. Tom was to have open heart surgery but suffered two strokes. “I remember waddling down a hallway at the hospital and I could not understand why; I asked my son why I was wad-

dling,” he said. Lenny pointed to Joe’s feet, telling him they were swollen. In another memory he saw himself in the mirror; a thin, gaunt, unfamiliar face was looking back. Joe had gone from 250 pounds down to 121 in a very short period of time. It was at that point, in March 2018, that he placed in palliative care. Donna said that by then he had been in the hospital for about a year, and the family was gathered at the hospital to hear the news. But Joe was oblivious to what was going on. “I noticed that doctors weren’t making their regular morning check-ups and when I asked about it I was told that they wouldn’t be coming around anymore, that they were just there to keep me comfortable,” said Tom. Two days later Tom said he demanded to see the doctor; he wanted out of the hospital. Donna said her father was frustrated with being sick and with being institutionalized – just like in the residential school. “I had a fight with a nurse – I wasn’t very nice,” he recalled. Tom said when he demanded to be released he was told that his life was signed over to the hospital and that they make the decisions. Donna stepped in to advocate for her father, who struggled to understand the health care professionals in his weakened state. He was eventually allowed to leave, even though he could barely walk. Tom was so weak that he needed the support of his son just to stand. Family came to

care for him at home. In early 2019 Tom was reassessed by a heart specialist who determined that he was strong enough for open heart surgery. On Feb. 14, 2019 Tom had two heart valves replaced on one repaired. “I told the surgeon that I had stuff to do, that I want to live, that I don’t want to lay down and die,” said Tom. “The doctor shook my hand and said, let’s go for it!’.” Tom believes he had an out-of-body experience while he was in surgery. “I could hear them talking to me and it felt like I was looking through a little glass window,” he said. When the time came to restart his heart, he said he heard a nurse yell, ‘yippee!’ and then the experience ended, seemingly when his heart came back to life. “There was no fear,” he said of the memory, and that gives him peace. Tom admits that his heart is still weak but he’s determined to make it strong. He does a lot of walking and, six months later, is working half time at Quu’asa. Donna credits cultural teachings for bringing her father through the difficult times. She would remind him to speak to the Creator and they would take him to special places when he needed to pray. “We’d make do with what we had to give him a brushing,” she shared. “It’s been exciting; my view of life is really different,” reflected Tom. “My health is much better so I am enjoying my second chance.” “His recovery is amazing,” said Donna. “He’s always had a gentle spirit but he seems so much more grounded in his spirituality than he was before,” she noted. Tom vowed to continue to do the right thing to help people. “Don’t ever give up what you want to do, you’ve got what it takes to be healthy,” he said.

Page 12— Ha-Shilth-Sa—October 24, 2019

Community&Beyond Indigenous Language Revitalization Pole

Oct. 24

Port Alberni Port Alberni Maritime Heritage Society invites you to see the newly carved Indigenous Language Revitalization Pole and to hear its story with Jeff Cook and Cecil Dawson at 4:00 pm. At the Maritime Heritage Gallery, Lighthouse Pier, Harbour Road. By donation or with PAMHS membership Multi-media event

Oct. 25

Port Alberni The Path to Reconciliation - Secret Path by Gord Downie & Jeff Lemire. Mike Downie tells the story of Ojibway boy Chanie Wenjack who died while running away from residential school. At ADSS Theatre, 7:00 p.m.; limited seating. Tickets by donation available at ADSS office sor School Board Office (4650 Roger St.) Free cultural event provided photos

Fifty-three years ago, Chanie Wenjack (above) went missing. The late Tragically Hip frontman Gord Downie wrote about it in his book, Secret Path (bottom). Downie’s brother, Mike, will be at Alberni District Secondary School on Oct. 25 to talk about his brother’s book and a path to reconciliation.

Mike Downie to discuss reconciliation at ADSS

Oct. 26

Campbell River Theme: Journey to a new freedom Guest Speaker: James H. Admission by donation, please call to pre-register, registration 9 a.m. Meetings

all day, starting 10 a.m., lunch and dinner provided. Culture & entertainment: smudging,cedar brushing, dance. *This event is open to everyone!* Location: Homalco Hall, 1218 Bute Cres. Contact: Glen 250-923-3976 or 250-204-0492 or Marilyn 250-923-3976 or 250-203-3406 Uchucklesaht People’s Assembly and Election

Nov. 16

Port Alberni Location: The Thunderbird Port Alberni, B.C. 5251 Argyle Street Election Voting Time: Meeting: 8am-6pm Meeting Time: 5pm-6pm What: Peoples Assembly and Elections/ Voting Who: Uchucklesaht Tribe Citizens & Enrollees Memorial Potlach

May 16 2020 Lake Cowichan

We the Livingstone family are now planning a Memorial Potlach for our Father and Hereditary Chief Sha e’ Lum, Cyril Edward Livingstone. Bring your drums and regalia. All family and friends are invited. Location: Lake Cowichan Arena, 311 S Shore Rd, Lake Cowichan, Contact Lake Cowichan First Nation at (250) 749-3301 for information.

Brother of the late Tragically Hip lead singer travelling across Canada to speak about the Secret Path Deborah Potter Ha-Shilth-Sa Staff On October 25th, Mike Downie will be at the Alberni District Secondary School to talk about the creation of Gord Downie’s Secret Path, and the Path to Reconciliation. Fifty-three years later, the story of the death of young Chanie Wenjack is still being shared across Canada. Twelve-year-old Wenjack ran away from the Cecilia Jeffrey Indian Residential School, where he had been a student for three years. He had been walking along the Canadian National Railway for just over a day and a half when he succumbed to the freezing temperatures and hunger in late October 1966. His death brought light to the abuse and mistreatment of the Indigenous children at residential schools, and today the story is being shared as a symbol of resistance against the residential school system.

In 2016, fifty years after the death of Wenjack, Gord Downie, lead singer for Canadian rock band The Tragically Hip, with the help of his brother Mike, vowed to find a way to share Wenjack’s story with the world. Together, they built the multimedia project the Secret Path, a music album, graphic novel, and television film about the story of Chanie Wenjack. After Gord’s death in 2017, Mike Downie still shares the story of the Secret Path. He travels across Canada as a celebrated storyteller and documentarist, bringing awareness to what really happened in residential schools, and how generations were impacted. On October 25th, Mike Downie will be at Alberni District Secondary School presenting the Path to Reconciliation, and the creation of the Secret Path. Event starts at 7pm, and entry is by donation (suggest minimum $10). Pick up tickets at ADSS or the SD70 board office.

www.hashilthsa.com

October 24, 2019—Ha-Shilth-Sa—Page 13

--JOB OPPORTUNITIES --

Ha-Shilth-Sa archives photo

Coming soon to Ha-Shilth-Sa’s online Flickr site are dozens more archive photos. There are already thousands of Ha-Shilth-Sa archive photos on Flickr. Pictured here is Hupacasath elder, late Tat Tatoosh, during a cultural event. This image is included in the next batch of photos going up on Flickr.com.

View more job postings at: www.hashilthsa.com Updated daily!

Page 14— Ha-Shilth-Sa—October 24, 2019

Knowing where you come from: Nuu-chah-nulth members recognized for commitment to their nations NTC annual general meeting holds up members for dedication, including helping those in urban areas Eric Plummer Ha-Shilth-Sa Editor Victoria, BC - Holding back tears, Wally Samuel clutched by wife Donna tight as he stood in the warmth of applause. A few days before his recognition at the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council’s annual general meeting on Sept. 25 Samuel had received a cancer diagnosis, news from the doctor Samuel admitted he was still digesting while at the event in Victoria. “He told me I have a tumor in my intestine, it’s cancerous,” said the Ahousaht elder, as he was wrapped in a blanket by members of his nation. “They’re working on it. Hopefully they caught it on time.” For decades Samuel has been an advocate for fellow Ahousaht members, particularly those living off reserve in Port Alberni. He has been involved with the city’s friendship centre in various capacities since 1980, often encouraging participation in sports or assisting Nuuchah-nulth seniors find the best health care. “There has been a great group of kids who have been raised under Wally’s mentorship,” said Ahousaht Councillor Curtis Dick. As he spoke to the crowd Samuel addressed the prevalence of homelessness, which was a focus during the AGM hosted by Ahousaht in Victoria. “We’re starting an Ahousaht housing society in Port Alberni,” announced Samuel, noting that the City of Port Alberni, as well as the local Tseshaht and Hupacasath First Nations, have been consulted on the initiative. “In the city it’s sort of underground. The kids, the young people especially, are wandering around, they don’t really have a home, but they do have relatives and friends they couch surf with. They have a difficult time because they have to find a place to rent. Because they are usually low on the totem pole with landlords, it’s hard for them to find accommodation a real decent home.” Another Nuu-chah-nulth member was recognized at the AGM for her a long legacy of helping off-reserve First Nations in an urban environment. Marjorie White of the Huu-ay-aht First Nations co-founded the Vancouver Indian Centre Society in the early 1960s, a supportive facility which became B.C.’s first friendship centre. She also helped start the Circle of Eagles in 1970, a culturally sensitive halfway house in Vancouver for inmates transitioning into mainstream society. Her extensive volunteer work has encompassed the Lu’ma Native Housing in Vancouver, the Lu’ma Medical Centre, and the Aboriginal Patients’ Lodge. Although she has been entered into the Order of British Columbia and the Order of Canada, the recognition before her fellow Huu-ay-aht members brought a special feeling. “I think the greatest award is to be recognized by your own people,” said White. “I’ve used what I’ve heard on the outside to bring into the inside to help my nation in whatever way I can.” “Probably when she’s leaving this world, she’s going to be helping some-

Eric Plummer photos

Wally Samuel was among several Nuu-chah-nulth-aht recognized at the NTC’s annual general meeting in late September.

Marjorie White, above, Lorraine Williams, right, and Judith Sayers , below, were honoured at the AGM for years of dedication to their people. group of staff south of the border each team.” December to host cultural activities in Other recognitions were accepted on Seattle. behalf of Nuu-chah-nulth-aht not present “You were always generous,” said at the AGM, including Ahousaht member Michael McCarthy, Teechuktl’s central Joseph George. region coordinator, to Williams. “Your “Joseph has helped many families with food was always medicine for our people. baby naming, coming of age ceremonies, Your food pulled all of us together.” traditional weddings, prayers, sending “I’ve really enjoyed catering for you all their loved ones on their final journey when you come to Seattle,” said Wilhome, cleansings, potlatches, dance pracliams. “I really love having my people tice and supporting the preschool with the come over to sing and dance and teach.” cultural aspect,” read Ahousaht CouncilSayers was also recognized at the AGM lor Crystal Sam. “Joseph is an individual for her leadership in advancing Nuuwho is rich with knowledge, history and chah-nulth interests, particularly with strong voice.” respect to environmentally sustainable Ahousaht member Jean Thomas was developments. During her 14-year term recognized for her dedication in searchas elected chief of the Hupacasath First ing for her son Travis. Travis Thomas has body just before she goes,” said Huu-ayNation, Sayers led the development of a been missing since Aug. 7, 2018, when aht Chief Councillor Robert Dennis Sr. he was staying on the remote Bartlett “I have spent all of my adult life in Van- 6.5 megawatt run-of-river hydro station at China Creek a partnership with the Island as part of an addictions treatment couver, but I’m never far from home,” Hupacasath, Synex Energy Resources, practice. Jean and her family have reguadded White. “I know who I am, I know the Ucluelet First Nation and the City larly searched the Island since. where I come from and I know who my of Port Alberni. She has also served on Susan Lauder was not able to attend the relatives are.” the Aboriginal Economic Development event, as she was busy teaching Grade 5 Lorraine Williams has worked to give Board and was the political executive students in the traditional Nuu-chah-nulth the many Nuu-chah-nulth members in for the First Nations Summit. She is an uses of plants band trees. Seattle that sense of home during reguadjunct professor at the University of “She has been very instrumental in our larly held urban gatherings. Living in Victoria’s Peter Gustavson School of community for dance and song,” said the Washington State city for 50 years, Business and the School of Environmenfellow Hupacasath member Jim Tatoosh, Williams has cooked for Nuu-chah-nulth tal Studies, and has worked as a strategic adding that Lauder learned great deal of events in Seattle for the last 20. advisor to First Nations and corporations traditional practices from her mother. “Every time we go to Seattle, we call with Clean Energy BC. “Susan also learned how to sew tradiher,” said NTC President Judith Sayers. “I’m really humbled to stand before tional regalia, smoke fish, prepare and This has been particularly beneficial for you today,” said Sayers. “I’m always so preserve salmon for the winter.” Teechuktl Mental Health, which sends a thrilled to be part of the Nuu-chah-nulth

October 24, 2019—Ha-Shilth-Sa—Page 15

Melissa Renwick photos

Lewis and Cathy George own the House of Himwitsa Native Art Gallery in Tofino. A new MOU is designed to help operations like theirs with promotion.

New Memorandum of Understanding signed between Indigenous Tourism BC and Tourism Vancouver Island By Melissa Renwick Ha-Shilth-Sa Contributor Tofino, BC - Lewis and Cathy George had no competition when they first opened the House of Himwitsa Native Art Gallery in Tofino in 1991. Other than Roy Henry Vickers, Lewis, who is Tyee Ha’wilth of Ahousaht, says that they were the only business selling First Nations art within the tiny coastal town. This meant they didn’t need to focus on marketing or promotion. Instead, they poured their energy into finding and showcasing First Nations art from across the province. Tofino has grown since then, evolving into a tourist town that brings in over one million visitors annually. And with this influx of visitors, new businesses have flooded in as well. “Everybody has started selling First Nations artwork in their little tiny galleries,” Lewis says. “It’s digging into what we used to have before.” Earlier this month, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between Indigenous Tourism BC and Tourism Vancouver Island. Designed to increase Indigenous tourism across Vancouver Island, the partnership is aimed at businesses like the George’s, providing them with skills and resources, like social media training, that will allow them to stand apart in the authentic cultural experiences they offer as a First Nations owned-andoperated business. Paula Amos is the Chief Marketing and

Local items at the House of Himwitsa include smoked salmon. Development Officer with Indigenous Tourism BC and says that their latest audit reveals that one in three visitors are seeking an Indigenous experience while they’re traveling in British Columbia. In 2018, this growth generated $705 million in direct gross domestic output and created over 7,400 full-time jobs, she says. With over 50 nations on Vancouver Island alone, Amos says that part of the MOU will help to facilitate a deeper understanding of the diversity of the nations on the island. “A big part of the Indigenous tourism

overall is to educate visitors about the history of First Nations people,” she says. Lewis hopes this help with the “serious lack of cultural understanding about First Nations people in Tofino,” he says. He can recall one morning in the summer when his nephew was on the dock waiting for a boat and started singing their traditional song. Tourists who were staying in the House of Himwitsa’s lodge began asking what the significance of the song was and whether something sacred had occurred. “It wasn’t anything sacred,” he says. “It

was a happy song that he was singing.” It’s important for First Nations businesses to help bridge that gap and educate people, stresses Lewis, adding that “a lot of people don’t know that First Nations went to residential school and the hurts that went with that.” British Columbia has six different regions of tourism within the province and Amos says that this marks the fourth MOU they’ve signed. It will allow a regional Indigenous specialist to be on the ground, working directly with communities to help foster this thirst for Indigenous tourism within the province.

Page 16— Ha-Shilth-Sa—October 24, 2019