Ha-Shilth-Sa October 10, 2019

INTERESTING NEWS Canada’s Oldest First Nations Newspaper - Serving Nuu-chah-nulth-aht since 1974 Vol. 46 - No. 19—October 10, 2019

Canadian Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement No. 40047776

haas^i>sa

Healing event draws hundreds Reclaiming Lost Souls of the Alberni Indian Residential School

By Denise Titian Ha-Shilth-Sa Reporter Port Alberni, BC – Wails of anguish pushed through a shroud of morning fog, Sept. 27, as returning Alberni Indian Residential School survivors, now elderly, let go of childhood scars, symbolically tossing them into a fire. Tseshaht First Nation issued an open invitation to all First Nations people in the province that were impacted by the legacy of Indian residential schools.

Many came from their homes in northern British Columbia.

The bridge crossing the Somass River that led to the site of the Alberni Indian Residential School was a familiar sign for the children, letting them know how close they were to that terrible place. It is a trigger for some, bringing anxiety, and pain. Back in the day it was painted orange.

It has since been painted grey and was draped in cedar boughs. According to Tseshaht spokesperson, Martin Watts, cedar boughs in the First Nation’s culture are used for protection. Those boughs, he said, are Tseshaht's way of saying we will protect you as you visit our homelands.

Hosted by Tseshaht First Nation, the doors of Maht Mahs gym opened Thursday, Sept. 26 for an informal open house.

Maht Mahs gym is one of the last two buildings remaining from the AIRS complex; the other being an old classroom building that now houses some Nuuchah-nulth Tribal Council office space.

In his invitation to the public, Tseshaht elder Willard Gallic told the people that AIRS was put on Tseshaht land without permission of his people.

“But we want to have a new beginning,” he said, “We want to set souls free – we want to send them home.”

Martin Watts welcomed the people and encouraged them to help release the souls of the little ones lost at AIRS so that their spirits could finally go home.

“The government needs to understand the damage and pain these places caused,” he said.

The Gitxsan people from northwest B.C. came prepared to do their healing work.

Most dressed in beautiful regalia, took turns speaking, then carried out ceremonies to release the souls of their loved ones that didn't make it back home. Some let go of their pain and grief, sending

Council of Ha’wiih endorses Gord Johns

By Eric Plummer Ha-Shilth-Sa Editor

Denise Titian photo

AIRS survivors Wally Samuel and Tim Sutherland sing with participants at the healing event for former residential school students. gifts to the ancestors in the smoke of the fire.

“The kids were crying, so sad,” an elder from northern B.C. remembered. “All they wanted to do was go home but all they could do was cry.”

A pair of sisters from Ahousaht couldn’t make it to the Healing Event, but one of the stories that came out of it triggered their memories of a lonely young Hupacasath boy who died by hanging in the bathroom at AIRS. Norma Tom and Flo Charlie were senior girls at AIRS back in May 1969. As senior girls they were required to supervise the younger children.

“Mrs. Williams was a mean ass, oh my God!” said Flo. “When she’d loose it – it was bad.”

The sisters recalled that little Mitchell Joseph, age 9, ran away quite often. His parents and grandparents lived just down River Road, not far from AIRS. On May 26, 1969 Mitchell ran away yet again and was returned to AIRS by the RCMP. “The day he ran she really hit him around and belittled him,” said Flo, referring to Mrs. Williams.

Not long afterward, an Ahousaht boy came upstairs running for help. Randy Louie, also age 9, found Mitchell hanging from a towel dispenser; the type that had a continuous sheet of fabric looped through a wall-mounted device. It was too late to save him.

The Charlie sisters, traumatized by what they witnessed, recalled being isolated

Inside this issue...

Candidates debate.......................................................Page 3 Action needed for homelessness................................Page 5 Focus on seniors health .............................................Page 7 Federal election section...................................... Pages 8-13 Selling seaweed .......................................................Page 15

from the other children with instructions not to speak of it.

“In my heart I knew it wasn’t right – there was no stool or chair under this boy, I felt he was left hanging there,” said Flo. The sisters honoured the memory of Mitchell Joseph during a canoe journey trip dedicated to his memory.

“We dedicate our Tribal Journey paddles to something significant,” said Flo, adding that they met with members of the family and Hupacasath community several years ago.

The sisters say the memories are painful and they block some of them.

“It’s so hard to talk about…it just hurt so much to see him and it still gets me.

I’m sorry, I’m just nothing but tears,” said Norma.

During the Sept. 26 event at Maht Mahs, an elder from northern B.C. said it is time to heal.

“Now we remember these children with love. Many went on to be sad, lonely people, but now we rise up,” he said to a chorus of cheers.

The Tseshaht people, along with staff of First Nations Health Authority and the NTC Teechuktl Mental Health programs, set up brushing stations and resource tables. Support staff were everywhere, offering assistance to the now elderly residential school survivors.

The Healing Event continued at Maht Mahs until Saturday Sept. 28. During the day survivors told their stories around a fire. In the evening they enjoyed cultural performances.

Port Alberni, BC — As part of an effort to encourage Nuu-chah-nulth members to take their concerns to the polling stations on Oct. 21, the Council of Ha’wiih Forum on Fisheries has endorsed Gord Johns, the NDP candidates for Courtenay-Alberni.

Johns, who served as the region’s member of Parliament for the last four years, was given the endorsement during a fisheries meeting for Nuu-chah-nulth leaders Oct. 7. The Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council has not formally backed any candidates in the three ridings that cover the First Nations’ territories on Vancouver Island, but this recent endorsement comes from the council of chiefs who decide on fisheries matters.

Council of Ha’wiih Chair Cliff Atleo said that Johns has consistently brought up issues of concern to Nuu-chah-nulthaht while representing the region.

“I think that his track record in Ottawa on our behalf warrants further support,” said Atleo. “The issues that come before our table…we have had them highlighted

by Gord Johns in Ottawa.”

Johns has also brought up Nuu-chahnulth-specific issues during the campaign this fall. During a candidates debate in Parksville on Sept. 30 he mentioned the federal government’s continued court battle with the Ahousaht, Ehattesaht/ Chinehkint, Hesquiaht, Tla-o-qui-aht and Mowachaht/Muchalaht over the First Nations’ right to catch and sell fish from their territories.

“They fought Indigenous people in our riding,” said Johns of the government’s participation in the Ahousaht et al. case.

“They spent $19 million on lawyers fighting the Nuu-chah-nulth on their right to catch and sell fish.”

In 2015 the Council of Ha’wiih also endorsed Johns as he campaigned for his first term. The NDP candidate ended up winning with 38 per cent of votes, ahead of Conservative John Duncan’s 28 per cent.

On the day after a televised Englishlanguage leaders’ debate, national polls on Oct. 8 had the Liberals with a slight lead of 34.3 per cent to the Conservatives 33.9, while the NDP polled with 14.2 per cent and the Greens had 9.1.

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

Page 2— Ha-Shilth-Sa—October 10, 2019

Remembering lost souls:

A late night ‘picnic trip’ turns fatal for residential school students in 1972

By Denise Titian, Ha-Shilth-Sa Reporter Port Alberni, BC – “I was only seven years old when we were loaded on the bus – I didn’t know why me and my older brother were being taken away from our parents,” said Clyde Wale of Hazelton B.C. Wale, now 54, was in Port Alberni on the weekend of Sept. 27 for the Reclaiming Lost Souls Healing event hosted by Tseshaht First Nation. Clyde spent one year at the Alberni Indian Residential School, starting in September 1972.

He recalled that two buses were loaded in his home community. The kids, he said, were from surrounding communities. He didn’t know any of them.

“I don’t know why they took us away – there was a day school there,” said Wale.

“DIA (District of Indian Affairs) was the ones that did it; maybe it was because my dad was an alcoholic.”

Wale didn’t recall ever leaving the bus.

He believes they drove the 1,400-kilometres straight through to Port Alberni.

When they arrived he saw the white-brick building that would be his dorm for the next year.

“They lined us up and put delouser in our hair – you didn’t want to get that stuff

in your eyes,” he said.

Then his long hair was shaved off and he was changed into AIRS-issued clothing.

“I felt abandoned, unwanted, and worthless – I felt ashamed,” said Wale.

“They called us savages, put soap in our mouths because they thought we were laughing at the supervisors.”

Wale shared that one of his friends was in so much anguish that he hung himself at AIRS. At the time the AIRS dorms were divided into three floors; the junior boys were on the main floor, the intermediate on the second, and the senior boys on the top floor. It was late one night when Wale remembered being woken up by a female supervisor.

“It was a young woman supervisor – she decided to take us to Parksville for a picnic,” he recalled.

But it was late at night and the van load of children never made it to Parksville.

“We had a bad accident at that lake just over the mountain,” he said.

Judging from his description, the accident likely happened at Cameron Lake near Angel Rock.

“We hit the rock and there was yelling and screaming – bodies flying everywhere,” he recalled. “A kid in the back

Residential School survivors hope to move forward

By Deborah Potter Ha-Shilth-Sa Staff Port Alberni, BC - The ground was alive at the Maht Mahs Saturday morning, as dozens of residential school survivors shared their stories. Many of the survivors attending the ceremony had been to the Alberni Indian Residential School (A.I.R.S), opening up about their history and letting go of their traumas.

Survivors were lifted up by other survivors, as well as children, grandchildren, and extended family alike.

“Today we are proud to come back, to take back what we have lost,” a Gitxan elder spoke to the crowd.

The event was organized by the Tseshaht First Nation.

On Saturday afternoon, the elected council, traditional Ha’wiih, and any other Tseshaht volunteers stood with them.

A statement made by Chief Councillor Cynthia Dick says that the Canadian government disgraced their traditional territory by placing the institution at the site, and now Tseshaht is left to deal with the consequences.

In 1973, the Tseshaht First Nation forced the closure of AIRS. Decades later, spirits and energy can still be felt on the land were the facility once stood, most especially in the Maht Mahs gymnasium, and some NTC offices that were once old classrooms.

Tseshaht extended an invitation for the healing event to the United Church of Canada, which was declined.

While many steps towards reconciliation were taken during the ceremony,

“ Today we are proud to come back to take back what we have lost.”

- Gitxan elder there is still a long ways to go. Dick publically called upon the Canadian government to provide nations with more information on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission report, which had over five generations of uncertainties for children who lost their lives in residential schools. The First Nation is hoping for clarity and closure to understand how children died under the church and government care.

The two-day event came just before Orange Shirt Day, which raises awareness for those who went to residential school, and those who couldn’t make it home.

Orange Shirt Day happens yearly at the end of September, which was historically known as the time of the year Indigenous children were taken from their families and homes to go to residential schools.

“We are ready to move forward in a good way,” was a statement made by many of the survivors.

“It is because of each and every one of you that we are here,” said Dick, ending her media statement by giving thanks to the thousands of survivors who had carried their dark secrets and traumas.

Clyde Wale of Hazelton, B.C. attended the healing event at Maht Mahs. died and my friend Alex, from Kispiox, lost his arm.”

The survivors were rescued by a passerby.

“It’s lucky we didn’t end up in the lake or they wouldn’t have found us,” he said.

Wale said he suffered cuts on his head and wrist.

A search of online archives shows that an eight year-old Ditidaht boy died instantly in a crash on Highway 4, at Cameron Lake on November 11, 1972.

The record indicates that David Edwards was in a bus, which ‘ran off the road’.

Wale never returned to Port Alberni until 2019. He said he went on to Lytton Indian Residential School and eventually returned to his father, whom he said took better care of him and his brother. But he admits he turned to alcohol very young.

“I took my first drink at age 12, a shot

of vodka from his older cousins,” he said.

He remembered that it burned going down and he wound up passing out. He felt horrible when he woke up alone, on the floor, and thought he would never touch alcohol again, but he returned to it five years later.

He has heard the stories of other residential school survivors and likes to hear how they’ve coped.

“I am happy to be here,” he said. “We have to take back our spirits and when I go home, I am going to leave this stuff behind.”

“When I leave here it is imperative that I stay away from town and stay busy,” he said, vowing to live a sober life.

Wale plans to make his living cutting firewood for the elders. “We get lots of snow up north,” he said.

October 10, 2019—Ha-Shilth-Sa—Page 3

Candidates debate action for climate change Warnings about the effects of global warming continue during this election season, as diverse opinions emerge

By Eric Plummer Ha-Shilth-Sa Editor Parksville, BC — At a time when city streets around the world are being filled with demonstrations for governments to do more to fight climate change, how the global phenomenon is affecting Vancouver Island’s coastal communities was brought up during the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council’s annual general meeting.

“All of you are losing land to global warming and rising sea levels,” said Tseshaht Councillor Hugh Braker at the AGM on Sept. 26 in Victoria. “It’s happening far faster now than scientists thought it would.”

Braker explained that the Port Albernibased First Nation has lost 10 to 15 feet along sections of the Somass River in recent years through erosion.

“I believe some of that is attributable to the fact that the river is running much faster and more frequently flooding than it did in the past,” he said. “We’re probably going to lose a large part of our main reserve in the flood plain area due to rising sea level.”

In August Fisheries and Oceans Canada drew a direct link between the warming of the oceans and the decline of West Coast fish stocks.

“The planet is warming and the most recent five years have been the warmest on record,” wrote DFO scientist Sue Grant in the 2019 State of the Canadian Pacific Salmon report.

The report stated that warmer water is putting B.C.’s salmon at risk – including chinook that are declining throughout their range and some southern sockeye populations that are facing extinction.

“The extent that we are able to curb our CO2 and other greenhouse gas emissions will determine the magnitude of future warming,” the report states. “There is still time to moderate climate change impacts on salmon and people.”

What Canada can do to mitigate global warming has become a foremost issue in the 2019 federal election. On Sept.

30 candidates in the Courtenay-Alberni riding - which covers a large portion of Nuu-chah-nulth territory on Vancouver Island’s west coast - debated how their parties would attack the issue. Held in Parksville, the event was hosted by the local chamber of commerce, where written questions were directed to the candidates.

A global leader or laggard?

Early in the debate candidates were asked about the global effects if Canada reaches its pollution targets under the 2015 Paris Agreement.

“If we aren’t a leader, then why shouldn’t any other country do their share too?” asked Green Party candidate Sean Wood.

Byron Horner, who is running for the Conservatives, said the Liberals’ introduction of a carbon tax during their last term was an ineffective policy.

“The Trudeau Liberal climate tax is not working, it’s unfair,” he said. “Eight per cent is only paid by major polluters. You and small businesses pay the other 92 per cent.”

Horner also noted that his party would impose tighter emission standards on the largest polluters.

“We’re going to help take the climate fight global by a significant investment in Canadian green technology that we can export to countries like China and India

Eric Plummer

On Sept. 30 candidates in the Courtenay-Alberni riding - which covers a large portion of Nuu-chah-nulth territory on Vancouver Island’s west coast - debated how their parties would attack the issue in Parksville. that have a much bigger dependence on coal, which is the largest emitter in the world,” he added. “We believe in technology, not taxes.”

Sean Wood said part of the problem is that Ottawa has historically been beholden to oil companies.

“I like to call the fossil fuel industry the incumbent industry, because they’ve been influencing politics in Ottawa for far too long,” he said. “We need to move those subsidies from the fossil fuel industry to green technology and let’s make Canada a leader instead of lagging behind.”

NDP candidate Gord Johns, who served as the region’s Member of Parliament for the last four years, stressed that Canada is not doing its fair share to curb greenhouse gas emissions. According to the World Resources Institute, Canada accounts for 1.6 per cent of international carbon dioxide emissions, based on 2014 figures.

“We’re only 0.48 per cent of the global population - we’re laggards, we’re triple our output when it comes to greenhouse gas emission,” said Johns. “Canada is one of the biggest polluters per capita in the world.”

Although Canada’s share of this pollution decreased slightly over the previous decade, the country’s overall output of carbon dioxide increased by 19.5 per cent since 2005.

“We need a binding agreement, binding targets that are legislated in the House of Commons by the Government of Canada at a climate accountability office that’s going to make sure that we stay on track,” stressed Johns during the debate.

“We’re only responsible for 1.6 per cent of global emissions. We can’t win the climate change fight alone, we can’t win it within our own borders,” said Horner, noting the importance of exporting more environmentally sustainable technology to other countries.

Currently the Hesquiaht community of Hot Springs Cove is hoping for federal funds to complete a hydro-electric project that would be powered by a local creek.

This would save the First Nation up to $750,000 annually that it spends on diesel for power.

Although the ruling Liberals have not committed support for Hot Springs Cove, an election pledge has announced support

for industries to use more environmentally friendly power.

“We’re committing to move forward with a new $5 billion clean power fund,” said Liberal candidate Jonah Gowans during the debate. “This fund will support the electrification of Canadian industries, including our resources and manufacturing sectors and make Canada home to the cleanest mills, mines and factories in the world.”

Pipelines The expansion of the Trans Mountain pipeline has proved to be a divisive issue across the country, particularly after the federal government bought the project in 2018 as part of its commitment to push the project through to completion.

While the pipeline’s twinning aims to lessen Canada’s dependence on exporting petroleum to the US as a discounted price, many are concerned about how an increase in tanker traffic will affect the West Coast. The tanker route passes through Pacheedaht and Ditidaht territory.

“There was no pipeline built in the 10 years before we took government,” assured Gowans. “We’re going to build a pipeline, and we’re going to use the profits to fund our transition to renewables.”

“The Liberal government should not have bought the pipeline,” argued Horner.

“It was an inappropriate use of your tax dollars.”

“The government bought a leaky pipeline that nobody would buy,” said Johns.

“If we’re going to invest in anything, we should be investing in renewables, it’s long overdue. We can’t continue investing in fossil fuel infrastructure - we certainly shouldn’t be subsidizing the oil and gas sector.”

While he’s against the federal government’s purchase of Trans Mountain, Horner is advocating for better support for Canada’s oil and gas industry.

“It’s wrong that we import over $17 billion a year of foreign oil to Canada,” he said. “We should own our own energy footprint in Canada. We should support our neighbour in Alberta and all of the families and workers who depend on that resource.”

“Fossil fuels are a sunset industry,” stressed Wood. “Don’t invest in it; invest

in green technology for the future. We’re done with the pipelines and all the fossil fuels.”

Fish farms The contentious topic of fish farms was also brought up during the debate.

It’s an industry that employs thousands in coastal communities, but many fear that the ocean-based pens are affecting migrating salmon.

Earlier in the day the Liberals announced an election promise to transition aquaculture away from net pens to “close containment” systems by 2025. This announcement has been called a “destructive” measure by the B.C. Salmon Farmers Association, and Horner spoke against bans imposed on the industry.

“We need to support abundant and sustainable wild salmon stocks through enhancement, enforcement and habitat restoration, as well as the local jobs that come from the salmon farming industry,” he said. “Rather than banning anything outright, we need to take a science-based approach that fills in the knowledge gaps and settles conflicting science about fish farming.”

“We’re not banning, we’re transitioning,” responded Gowans. “It’s not that we’re going to take away the jobs, we’re going to change them to make it more sustainable for the wild salmon.”

Sean Wood stressed the need to get salmon farms out of the ocean.

“We need to move them onto land and get them out of our waters,” he said, noting the continued fishing of herring off Vancouver Island. “Our herring fishery needs to be rebuilt too - a lot of the herring goes to feed fish farms.”

Johns said that an NDP bill for closed containment farms was voted down by the Liberals and Conservatives last year.

“We have a sea lice epidemic. They’re allowing fish that are infected with PRV (piscine reovirus) to be transferred to open-net fish farms - that should be totally unacceptable,” he said. “This is our salmon which identifies us on our coast.

It’s who we are, it’s what unites us - it shouldn’t be dividing us.”

Canada’s federal election takes place Oct. 21.

Page 4— Ha-Shilth-Sa—October 10, 2019

Brian Martin photo

In September 2018 representatives from T’aaq-wiihak fisheries ventured to the territory of the Mi’gmaq of Listiguj in Quebec in the spirit of their shared need to exercise Aboriginal fishing rights. Last summer members of the Mi’gmaq of Listiguj visited the west coast of Vancouver Island as part of the continued relationship.

Listuguj Mi’gmaq chart defiant course to affirm right T’aaq-wiihak nations watch closely as lobster catch sold commercially on East Coast against DFO stipulations

By Mike Youds Ha-Shilth-Sa Contributor Chaleur Bay, Que. — Tired of waiting years for a licence to sell their catch commercially, members of Listuguj Mi’kmaq First Nation in Quebec chose to take matters into their own hands this season, openly defying the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans.

“So far, it’s fishing as usual,” said Denny Isaac, Listuguj fisheries manager.

Since late September, Mi’gmaq lobster boats have been out on Chaleur Bay in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, determined to press ahead with Indigenous fishing rights long established in court. They are not alone. The nation has considerable backing in its quest, having built an alliance of common interest in recent years with Nuu-chah-nulth nations equally frustrated in their commercial fishing aspirations.

Cliff Atleo, lead negotiator from Ahousaht First Nation, was across the river from Listuguj in Campbelltown, N.B., this week, meeting with the national fisheries committee of AFN. “I love what they’re doing,” Atleo said.

“It’s actually ensuring the power of authority is inherent with the nation. That’s why I’m here.”

Listuguj has its own fishing plan and is following its own law with emphasis on sustainability and safety. The East Coast nation has held a fall community lobster fishery for the past 20 years. The difference this season is that they are selling a portion of their catch to their neighbours, Gesgapegiaq First Nation, to cover costs.

A DFO licence was in the works before the department consulted with nonIndigenous fishing groups, Isaac said.

DFO had decided to issue a commercial licence but did not follow through.

“Basically, with the lobster restriction, the issue was the politics of the day with the (federal) election coming,” Isaac said.

Thwarted by political undercurrents, they opted to make the most of the political moment.

“Prime Minister Trudeau has often repeated that his government’s most important relationship is with Canada’s Indigenous people,” said Darcy Gray, chief of

the Listuguj Mi’gmaq government. “This fall provides the prime minister with an opportunity to show us what that really means. If this government is actually committed to reconciliation, then they will support us as we exercise our rights.”

Out West, the five T’aak-wiihak First Nations have felt equally stymied in pursuit of commercial fishing rights.

Their fisheries remain classed as pilot or demonstration fisheries pending a ruling expected this fall from the B.C. Court of Appeal. Finding common ground, T’aakwiihak nations and the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council have acted as intervenors in Mi’gmaq court action while the Mi’gmaq have reciprocated. Intervenor status enables them to have a say in proceedings. At the same time, Nuu-chahnulth and Listuguj representatives have engaged in cross-country exchanges as they build mutual support.

Atleo compared challenges faced by the Listuguj lobster fishery to those confronting the T’aaq-wiihak crab fishery. Commercial crab fishers licenced by DFO have been making inroads in Clayoquot Sound, fishing crab stocks in Ahousaht territory.

“It makes it harder to implement our right to harvest crab,” Atleo said. “I see these guys (Listuguj) making progress by doing what they’re doing, by saying they’re using their own licencing, their own permits.”

NTC President Judith Sayers said the Listuguj approach — fishing by their own laws — hasn’t been ruled out for T’aakwiihak.

“I think there are very few options available for First Nations in asserting their rights,” Sayers said. “T’aaq-wiihak has considered doing this as well. I just think it has to be at the right time, the right place, the right moment.”

Sayers said they were more hopeful of change when the Liberal government took office after campaigning on a fresh approach, hearing Justin Trudeau’s pledge to build a relationship based on mutual respect and partnership.

“Here we are, four years later, in the same place,” she said.

Both Nuu-cha-nulth and Mi’gmaq labour under the same regulatory regime

and share the same experience in dealing with federal bureaucracy.

“This is such a DFO attitude, not to deal with First Nations,” Sayers said. “To think that they can just put it aside and not deal with it.”

Conflict over fishing rights is hardly news to the Listuguj Mi’gmaq. Dating back to the 1970s, attempts to ban salmon fishing over conservation concerns led to tension between Indigenous and nonIndigenous fishers. In 1981, hundreds of police, fisheries and game officers, under direction from the Quebec government, descended on the community, beating and arresting residents while seizing boats and gear.

In response, the Listuguj organized, establishing their own law on fish and fishing in 1995. A 1999 Supreme Court of Canada decision, R vs. Marshall, proved to be a landmark. The ruling confirmed their right to hunt, fish, harvest and gather food in their territory for the purpose of trade and to earn a moderate livelihood. The Assembly of First Nations recognized the 20th anniversary of the Marshall decision at its recent general assembly.

“The Supreme Court of Canada, in the Marshall decision, made it clear,” said

AFN Chief Perry Bellegarde in a Sept. 26 news release. “Canada and all its agencies must recognize the treaty rights of the Listuguj First Nation to fish and to exercise a moderate livelihood through fishing.”

Since 1999, Listuguj has held a limited commercial lobster fishery each spring.

They were expecting their first fall licence when DFO pulled back at the 11th hour, Isaac said.

“It is taking a stand in that we believe it was not negotiated in good faith,” Isaac said. “We recognize that it’s going to be a harder swim up the river if we can’t even get a 14-day licence.”

While the courts have favoured the T’aaq-wiihak right to fish, that hasn’t been reflected in catch allocations from DFO. Atleo blames that disconnect on systemic racism within the department.

“People don’t talk much about it, but we live with that racist attitude,” Atleo said.

“I know it’s alive and well. What we’ve fought for was to re-establish a way of life,” he added. “It was about looking after your own.”

“Fisheries always were a foundation of our culture,” Sayers stressed. “What we’re trying to do is restore that balance to our economy.”

TSESHAHT MARKET GATEWAY TO THE PACIFIC RIM

Hours of operation - 7:00 am - 10:30 pm Phone: 724-3944 E-mail: claudine@tseshahtmarket.ca Find us on Facebook

October 10, 2019—Ha-Shilth-Sa—Page 5

Homelessness needs political action, says Ahousaht Aboriginal people comprise at least one third of the homeless population in Canada's West Coast municipalities

By Eric Plummer Ha-Shilth-Sa Editor Victoria, BC – Despite the drastic overrepresentation of Indigenous people among Canada’s homeless, the Assembly of First Nations does not have a mandate to target the issue.

This was brought up during opening remarks at the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council’s Annual General Meeting on Sept. 24, which was hosted by the Ahousaht First Nation. Ahousaht Chief Councillor Greg Louie spoke of a recent meeting Nuu-chah-nulth leaders had with Perry Bellegarde, the AFN’s national chief.

“Ahousaht posed the question to the national chief, what is your mandate, what is the national AFN doing about homelessness? What are you doing, Perry Bellgarde?” said Louie. “His answer to us is nothing.”

Point-in-time counts from Canada’s West Coast cities indicate that a large proportion of the homeless are First Nations. A count from March 15, 2018 in Victoria shows that one third of the 1,525 people without stable housing identified as Indigenous – with the largest portion coming from Nuu-chah-nulth nations.

A count was performed in Nanaimo one month later, which identified 335 homeless, 31 per cent of whom identified as Aboriginal. That same year 147 homeless people were counted one night in Port Alberni, a rate that puts the city ahead of every community in B.C. except Terrace and Nelson, according to similar homeless counts in those municipalities.

“There are approximately close to 60 homeless Nuu-chah-nulth in Port Alberni,” said Stan Matthew, a counsellor with Teechuktl Mental Health, during the AGM. The proportion of homeless people in Vancouver who identify as Indigenous is also alarming: Despite comprising just two per cent of the urban centre’s population, 39 per cent of the 2,223 people counted earlier this year were First Nations, Inuit or Métis.

During the recent AGM Fran Hunt-Jinnouchi, executive director of Aboriginal Coalition to End Homelessness, presented findings from her organization’s work in Victoria over the last four years.

“It is probably our most important work before us. Our people are dying,” she said. “We have learned that there are so many systemic and structural barriers in

Eric Plummer photo

Ahousaht Chief Councillor Greg Louie speaks at the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council’s AGM in late September, which focused on the prevalence of homelessness. the city that it’s going to be really, really hard to penetrate without having political will behind us. We’re constantly being asked to fit into a square, even though we’re a circle.”

Ahousaht planned to hold the 2019 AGM in Victoria to highlight the issue, but hopes to hold the meeting at a downtown location had to be adjusted due to space limitations. The AGM ended up being hosted in Saanichton at the Tsawout First Nation.

“We wanted to have this session in downtown Victoria so we can all see the homeless people, our family and friends that are down there on the streets,” explained Louie. “But the venues that we checked out are a little too small and parking was terrible.”

While the issue was being discussed in Saanichton, Victoria’s Pandora Street continued to see a crowd of activity in front of a safe injection site and Our Place Society, which provides overnight shelter spaces and a variety of services for those experiencing homelessness.

Ahousaht member Georgina Williams was performing her regular volunteer role at the site, serving coffee and sandwiches.

It’s an involvement she’s happy to sustain after receiving help from Our Place her previous years on the streets.

“They’ve helped me out quite a bit. I used to prostitute and get into trouble,” said Georgina, who was first homeless when she moved to Victoria from Ahousaht nine years ago. “I feel loved. I feel like I’m welcome.”

Williams currently has her owned bachelor apartment, located a block away from where her son lives. But getting affordable subsidized accommodation came after a two-year struggle.

The Aboriginal Coalition to end Homelessness reports that incomes have not kept pace with Victoria’s rent increases over recent years, and the situation is worsened by a vacancy rate that remains at less than one per cent.

Income assistance has seen little changes as well; the shelter allowance of $375 a month is less than half the rent for a typical bachelor apartment in the city.

“It’s very tough to go homeless,” explained Williams. “When I was homeless I had a hard time, I was trying to stay off drinking and trying to stay off from being victimised. I was victimised quite a bit.

It’s really hard to get help.”

According to its point-in-time count, the Victoria Coalition to end Homelessness reports that most of the city’s 1,525 people found to be experiencing homelessness were either on income assistance or disability benefits. The top reason for housing loss was addiction, followed by job loss and being unable to afford rent.

Fifteen per cent of the Indigenous people surveyed attended residential or an Indian day school, while almost half were in foster care.

“The people we’re working with on the street don’t have housing options,” said Hunt-Jinnouchi. “Do not be fooled: we do have Indigenous housing providers, but they focus on affordable, low-income family housing. The people we are working with are the most at risk, the most vulnerable - chronic homeless, some for over 25 years. There is no Indigenous housing for them that is Indigenous specific.”

NTC directors plan to hold a meeting to discuss homelessness on Nov. 19, with the intention of proposing a resolution at the Assembly of First Nations in December.

Page 6— Ha-Shilth-Sa—October 10, 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

2019 Subscription rates: $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 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 October 18, 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.

LETTERS and KLECOS Ha-Shilth-Sa will include letters received from its readers. Letters MUST be signed by the writer and have the writer’s full name, address and phone number on them.

Names can be withheld by request. Anonymous submissions will not be accepted.

We reserve the right to edit submitted material for clarity, brevity, grammar and good taste. We will definitely not publish letters dealing with tribal or personal disputes or issues that are critical of Nuu-chah-nulth individuals or groups.

All opinions expressed in letters to the editor are purely those of the writer and will not necessarily coincide with the views or policies of the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council or its member First Nations. Ha-Shilth-Sa includes paid advertising, but this does not imply Ha-Shilth-Sa or Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council recommends or endorses the content of the ads.

First Nations Advocate Nurses provide support for Aboriginal patients across Vancouver Island The West Coast General Hospital staff work closely with Nuu-chah-nulth liaisons

By Kelda Blackstone Ha-Shilth-Sa Contributor Port Alberni, BC — First Nations Advocate Nurses are available for support seven days a week at West Coast General Hospital (WCGH) in Port Alberni. Embracing the values of hupiitst̓ał (‘helping each other’) and wiišahiiʔap (‘keeping healthy’), First Nations Advocate Nurses (FNANs) provide a much-needed bridge between the hospital and Aboriginal patients and their families.

The program has been running for over two decades, and is a collaboration between Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council and Island Health. FNANs can help explain health care issues or concerns, advocate on behalf of Aboriginal patients while in hospital, provide cultural awareness and insight to non-Aboriginal hospital staff, arrange medical travel, and help with many other services. It is a Vancouver Island-wide initiative, and is also available in Campbell River, the Comox Valley, Duncan and Cowichan, the Mount Waddington region, Nanaimo, and Victoria.

Deb Melvin, of Metlakatla, recently started working as a FNAN at West Coast General Hospital. Previously working in home care, she is enjoying her new position and sees a great need for the service.

“It’s exciting to be part of this,” she said in an interview at the hospital. “Knowing [people] have this office and someone here to support them seven days a week is a big help.”

Melvin collaborates with the hospital’s health teams, helping patients navigate the health care system. There are still many barriers facing Aboriginal people today in need of medical care. Much the way that schools and the education system can be a trigger for residential school survivors and their descendants, many Aboriginal people are also triggered by hospitals as institutions.

Barriers can be as simple as a lack of hearing, explained Melvin, or an inability to make sense of medical terminology.

Accessing services, mistrust of institutions, feeling dismissed, and not having someone there to guide the patient

Kelda Blackstone photo

First Nations Advocate Nurse Deb Melvin outside her West Coast General Hospital office. through respectfully are also among these barriers, she elaborated.

Melvin is encouraged by many aspects of what she sees at West Coast General Hospital.

“The hospital’s been very welcoming and accommodating in suggestions we bring forward [as FNANs],” she stated.

“They’re definitely very open to working with us. Just hearing the case managers talk about ‘Can we have a dietician see a client, because he’s not used to this kind of food; he’s used to eating more culturally-based food. What can we do to support that?’ – [Hearing that] is amazing.”

Melissa Shiplack is a registered nurse (RN) in the Emergency Department at WCGH. She works closely with FNANs, and acknowledges the high need for their services. “[First Nations Advocate Nurses] are an invaluable resource, for many reasons,” she said in a phone interview. “I’m always open to learning about different cultures, and I do pride myself on knowing a little bit about First Nations culture, but I didn’t grow up in it, so I don’t know it as a whole. Just having somebody from that background that can connect with patients that come through – that’s really valuable.”

Legal Information

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.

RN’s working in the high-paced Emergency Department don’t always have time to focus on the less immediate aspects of health care, such as social support and mental health.

“We don’t know all the resources that are out there for people,” said Shiplack.

“If patients need services such as counselling or housing, FNAN’s are there to help.”

Shiplack also appreciates the connections that FNAN’s can build between hospital staff and Aboriginal patients.

“I have had really good experiences where a connection is built through a First Nations Liaison,” she stated. “When I’m not able to establish that connection on my own. . . It helps build that trust that’s so important in health care.”

Melvin is also aware of positive changes occurring in the hospital.

“I just had someone in this morning,” she said, “who was saying that he’s noticed a big change in the way that he and his family have been treated in the last couple of years, which is really heartwarming to hear. There’s been a lot of work undertaken here in the community and with health professionals towards respect and cultural sensitivity. It’s wonderful to hear.”

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!

The advertiser agrees that the publisher shall not be liable for damages arising out of errors in advertisements beyond the amount paid for space actually occupied by the portion of the advertisement in which the error is due to the negligence of the servants or otherwise, and there shall be no liability for non-insertion of any advertisement beyond the amount paid for such advertisements

October 10, 2019—Ha-Shilth-Sa—Page 7

Focus on seniors health issues at DAC fair Holistic well-being with cultural teachings discussed

By Denise Titian, Ha-Shilth-Sa Reporter Port Alberni, BC – The Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council’s Quu’asa team took a lead role in guiding the events of the 22nd annual Disability Access Committee (DAC) Health Ability Fair held at Alberni Athletic Hall Oct. 2 and 3. Quu’asa, a program that operates under the NTC’s Teechuktl (Mental Health Program) provides support and promotes mental and emotional healing for former residential school students and their families through cultural teachings and healing practises.

Their staff is trained in providing culturally appropriate approaches to spiritual well-being, and so it was their staff that opened the event with a prayer, followed by traditional welcoming words from both Tseshaht and Hupacasath First Nations.

Tla-o-qui-aht elder Barney Williams chaired the event, with Teechuktl’s Mike McCarthy acting as co-chair.

Higher rates of disability among First Nations NTC President Judith Sayers said in her opening remarks that one in five (20 per cent) of Canadians live with disabilities while and one in three (33.33 per cent) of Canada’s Aboriginal people live with disabilities. It is important, she said, that we look after our own. There needs to be pressure put on the government about the issue of disability.

Sayers pointed out that there are many invisible disabilities, ones that you can’t see – hearing, mental capacity, emotional disorders for example.

In addition, people with disabilities are less likely to pursue higher education, have difficulty finding employment and many live in poverty. Sayers asked the people to identify issues that they still have and discuss solutions over the course of the next two days.

“We know we need more money; we need to identify the challenges and what is needed, and we can celebrate the successes,” she said.

Self care Tseshaht elder and long-time chair of DAC, Helen Dick, took a moment to pay tribute to two members of the DAC who are no longer with us. Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ elder Gord Taylor and Ka:'yu:'k't'h'/ Che:k'tles7et'h' elder Pat Nicolaye both served on DAC for many years and both passed away. Their work with DAC was acknowledged and respects were paid to their families.

Dick stressed the importance of taking care of oneself.

“If there’s something that doesn’t feel quite right in your body, go to your doctor and get checked out,” she said, adding that people don’t get brownie points for suffering.

Mike McCarthy concurred.

“Men will take care of their tools, their cars, their outboard motor better than they take care of themselves,” he pointed out, before reminding people to stay on top of their health concerns.

Dick spoke of homelessness and how it affects families. Dick said she met a family member who is homeless and said she can’t understand how they got that way.

“It is important to acknowledge them and to love them,” she advised.

The power of prayer

Marie Samuel gets her first manicure from Angelina Zarantonello.during the Disability Access Committee (DAC) Health Ability Fair held at Alberni Athletic Hall Oct. 2.

The keynote address focused on the concept of hishukistsawalk and was delivered by Quu’asa employee Joe Tom. The word, hishukistsawalk, he said, means everything is one; we are one with Mother Earth. Hishukistsawalk – your spirit, your food, your medicine is all one. If you don’t take care of one the others suffer, he explained.

Tom described the Nuu-chah-nulth practice of burying the placenta after the birth of a baby. The placenta, which is part of the mother and baby, is returned to the earth, maintaining that connection and keeping everything one.

Tom went on to talk about the power of prayer.

“The Creator gives us the tools to do things, but some of us don’t recognize the blessing for what it is. Instead, they complain that their prayers are never answered,” he said. “We keep asking and He keeps answering but we need to do the work.”

Homelessness and harm reduction On the issue of homelessness, Tom said that something needs to be done about children who are on the streets. He urged people to be proactive, to do something to help out and be part of the solution.

Stan Matthew of Quu’asa spoke about the NTC’s harm reduction work. The outreach workers, he said, connect with people in the streets and at the safe injection site in Port Alberni. Once a connection is made, Quu’asa staff provide services and support to clients in the form of transportation to appointments, referrals to other agencies – whatever they can do to help people help themselves.

“She will do referrals to treatment centers, whatever support they need, even if it’s just sitting with them and talking over a cup of coffee,” said Matthews.

Some of the elders shared their thoughts on current issues they are facing during open mic sessions. One elder who suffers from Parkinson’s disease pointed out that five Nuu-chah-nulth-aht people have died from the illness in the past year or so.

According to Parkinson’s Canada, Parkinson’s is a neurodegenerative disease.

Movement is normally controlled by dopamine, a chemical that carries signals between the nerves in the brain. When cells that normally produce dopamine die, the symptoms of Parkinson’s appear.

There is no cure for Parkinson’s disease.

Page 8— Ha-Shilth-Sa—October 10, 2019

Meet your federal election candidates Courtenay – Alberni Byron Horner, Conservative

Jonah Gowans, Liberal

Born and raised here I love Vancouver Island. My family lives in Parksville and our teenage boys attend Ballenas Secondary. I want to help Islanders, protect our environment and the jobs we rely on.

Although trained as a lawyer I have been a businessman for 20+ years. I am familiar with and respect the evolving Indigenous case law of the Supreme Court of Canada. For more information about my background please see www.byronhorner. ca. The Conservative Party and I support the reconciliation process with Indigenous Peoples. There can be no lasting reconciliation without economic reconciliation. A new Conservative government

Jonah was born and raised on the coast.

His roots in the riding start with his Grandparents in Port Alberni. He believes politics is about serving one’s community. Giving back was instilled in him from a young age. He has three main concerns, first use the infrastructure money the federal government is spending here locally to support local governments. He knows from his time in Ottawa, while going to University and volunteering on Parliament Hill, this is a constant battle to keep Courtenay Alberni in the minds of decision-makers at all times. Second, support the creation of more local jobs to help keep people in local communities

will invest in housing, health services and good quality drinking water and increase economic and education opportunities for Indigenous Peoples.

Sean Wood, Green

Gord Johns, NDP

As your Green Party candidate for the 2019 federal election, I want to make our country more secure and livable for everyone, and especially for our kids and grandkids. Children are the future, and Greens believe it is time to put the interests of our children at the centre of decision-making. If a policy works for our children, it works for our society.

If elected, it will be my role as your federal representative to listen to you and be your champion in Ottawa. I commit to learning from Ha-shilth-sa elders and community members about the needs of the community in order to effectively advocate for the resources and projects

It is my honour to stand for re-election as your Member of Parliament for Courtenay-Alberni. I was born and raised on Vancouver Island and have lived more than half of my life in Nuu-chah-nulth territory. I have stood with Indigenous people my whole life and proudly carry the name iih= peet sah= tak given me in Ahousaht. As Member of Parliament, I brought your voices to Parliament and advocated for Nuu-chah-nulth families and communities in Ottawa. I have fought for your right to catch and sell fish. I have also stood up for the salmon, the K’aka’win, the herring and our

required by Ha-shilth-sa while operating under the principle of free, prior, and informed consent.

for the long term. Finally a commitment to protecting the environment both locally and nationally.

mother earth. My work is not done and I respectfully ask for your vote on October 21st. Klecko! Klecko!

North Island – Powell River Rachel Blaney, NDP

Peter Shwarzhoff, Liberal

Daughter of a logger and a nurse, I grew up in Terrace. My father was from Stellat’en First Nation and my mom was from Saskatchewan. I have lived on Vancouver Island for over 25 years and raised my children here. They now work in the forestry and service industries. My work life has been dedicated to non-profits because I am passionate about community development, building relationships and consensus toward local solutions.

During my four years in Parliament I served as the Seniors and Veterans Affairs Spokesperson and the Vice-Chair of the Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs. I’m proud to have been a strong

I grew up in a typical Campbell River pulp mill family. I enjoyed a career as a scientist with Environment Canada. Now retired home to Campbell River I am a volunteer ESL teacher, board director for Community Living, member of Greenways and proud member of the Legion colour party.

The Liberals promise to fight climate change while making sure our economy works for everyone. They are committed to a renewed Nation-to-Nation relationship with Indigenous peoples based on recognition of rights, respect and partnership.

I want to work to ensure that our kids

voice for our communities, ensuring the government hears and responds to the concerns and needs of our riding.

Mark de Bruijn, Green

Shelley Downey, Conservative

Mark de Bruijn is the candidate for the Green Party of Canada in the riding of North Island-Powell River. He has a 1st class honours B.Sc. from the University of Calgary. As an educator, he has been a school principal, a high school sciences teacher and a college lecturer. As an arctic biologist he worked on environmental assessments for pipeline projects. For 21 years he was involved with an international network of intentional communities and small businesses, including 6 years as a Board member, experimenting with cooperative governance and sustainable approaches to living. His lifelong love of nature and passion for community

I live in Port McNeill and am serving my fourth term as councillor. Over the years, I have represented my community and region on a variety of committees and boards. I am currently a director for Mount Waddington Community Futures and an active Rotarian, serving as the treasurer for both until recently.

I have done accounting for a variety of sectors. I worked as a Financial Controller at West Coast Helicopters prior to my husband and I opening a greenfield store.

At that point, it was time for me to commit full-time to our family business.

My husband and I have 2 sons and 2

drew him to the Green Party, and a desire to bring its inspiring principles into the governance of our country. An engaged father, and grandfather of twin boys, he lives with his partner, Carol Thatcher in the Comox Valley.

have a real chance to succeed in a safe, healthy environment.

The Liberal Party is the only one that has both the will and capacity to keep us on track.

I choose forward.

daughters and 5 grandchildren. We enjoy and value our time together.

October 10, 2019—Ha-Shilth-Sa—Page 9

Cowichan – Malahat - Langford Blair Herbert, Liberal Blair Herbert has served as an RCMP officer, Investigator for the Provincial Ombudsman and Federal Immigration Officer. Today, with his four children grown, Blair is a small businessperson and farmer in the Cowichan Valley.

The changing environment motivated Blair to enter this election. “The Liberal government has invested more in the environment than any party in Canada’s history; we cannot afford to go back-

Alistair MacGregor, NDP I have been honoured to serve as Member of Parliament for Cowichan-MalahatLangford and bring local concerns to Ottawa. I live in the Cowichan Valley with my family on a small farming property, and I was proud to serve as the NDP’s Agriculture Critic.

I know the challenges facing our communities. The climate crisis and growing inequality are the defining issues of our century. How we respond will determine

Lydia Hwitsum, Green I was born and raised in the Quamichan village in the Cowichan Valley and continue to build a life here with my children and grandchildren. The Green Party of Canada is the only party that reflects my personal values: true collaboration, meaningful partnerships through reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, advancing gender equality including LGBTQI2+ rights, and a commitment to take the necessary action on the climate crisis. As Member of Parliament, I would continue to advocate for human rights,

wards on this file.” Of equal importance is the economy. “The economy is strong, with the Liberal government creating one million jobs, achieving the lowest unemployment in the last 40 years and lowering taxes for the middle class.”

Blair’s hard work and collaborative approach will balance the challenges facing the environment and the economy to keep Canada moving forward. the survival of future generations.

The NDP’s New Deal for People has a real plan to stop devastating climate change and transition to the clean-energy future. We will make life more affordable by investing in head-to-toe health care, universal pharmacare, and fixing the housing crisis. I’m committed to building a Canada where no one is left behind. ecological justice, fairness, and accessibility, as I have done in both my personal and professional lives. My unique world view and set of skills have given me the experience to ask the hard questions that create opportunities for solutions, as I have done as Chair of the First Nations Health Authority and founding Co-Chair of the Cowichan Watershed Board, among other roles.

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

Kinder Morgan photo

Marine shipping terminals in Burnaby are preparing for a seven-fold increase in tanker traffic with expansion of the Trans Mountain pipeline.

The expansion of the Trans Mountain pipeline is aimed to diversify Canada’s markets for petroleum and lessen its dependence on exporting to the United States, but this brings a significant increase in tanker traffic from the Vancouver area. Is Trans Mountain beneficial for Vancouver Island residents?

Courtenay – Alberni Byron Horner, Conservative Oil & Gas is Canada’s #1 export and supports jobs and federal tax revenue. TM expansion provides BC with $6.7 billion in tax revenues and 15,000 construction jobs.

These tax revenues support health and social spending throughout Nuu Chah Nulth Territory. Oil tankers pass our West Coast every day but we do not currently have the people and equipment to protect our coast. TM expansion commits $1 billion to world-class marine spill response. Port Alberni would receive 20 jobs and two ships and Ucluelet one ship. First Nation communities should be an equal partner in this spill response capability.

Jonah Gowans, Liberal Yes, the pipeline will benefit Vancouver Island residents by helping fund the transition for Canada away from Oil and to renewables. Justin Trudeau and the Liberal government are balancing the needs of now with the needs of the future. Balance though is important Liberal MPs who live on the coast fear an oil spill as do I. That is why there has been a significant investment to make sure the potential impact can be limited, as well as creating the Ocean’s Protection Plan which has gone further to protect the BC Coast.

North Island – Powell River Rachel Blaney, NDP I have spoken many times against the expansion of the Trans Mountain Pipeline. The government failed twice to properly consult the Indigenous communities along the route, many of whom are opposed to it. Their rights and title must be recognized. Purchasing the pipeline for 4.5 billion, with another 9 to 15 billion to go for the expansion is a terrible use of tax dollars. The economy in our region relies on the ocean and the increased tanker traffic and the potential for a spill is a risk we cannot afford to take. We need to be working towards a sustainable future. Investing in pipelines does the opposite.

Peter Shwarzhoff, Liberal Like you, I am terrified by the thought of oil spilling into our waters. The expansion to the pipeline will add to the risk we already have. Presently 1.2 million barrels per day of oil goes through the Strait of Juan de Fuca, much of it inbound from Alaska. I can sleep at night though, thanks to a dramatic effort to improve marine safety – to keep a spill from ever happening. Taxes on this pipeline will all go into clean energy projects and Indigenous groups are encouraged to benefit economically through buying the pipeline or through revenue sharing agreements. It is worth the risk.

Cowichan – Malahat - Langford Blair Herbert, Liberal Pipelines are a safer means to transport resources than rail, and the pipeline solves an economic challenge of selling our conventional energy at a discount.

While addressing these two issues, the pipeline will also benefit Island residents.

The Liberals will seek input from Indigenous groups, exploring options of equity ownership or revenue sharing. Every dollar the Liberal government earns from this project

will be invested to clean transition, for example, electrification projects and efforts to help Indigenous communities transition off diesel power. And, finally, communities along the coast will benefit from involvement under the Liberals’ Ocean Protection Plan.

Alistair MacGregor, NDP I strongly oppose the expansion of the Trans Mountain pipeline which will triple

Sean Wood, Green The global economy is shifting to run on renewable energy sources. This makes expensive long-term projects like the Trans Mountain pipeline a bad investment of government resources, and tankers filled with diluted-bitumen threaten Vancouver Island communities that rely on the ocean.

Greens will cancel the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion (and its $10-13 billion cost) as well as billions in other subsidies to fossil fuel industries. This money will be redirected to a renewable energy transition and Canadian Grid Strategy to enable the production of renewable electricity that can flow across provincial and territorial boundaries and create thousands of jobs nation-wide.

Gord Johns, NDP A seven-fold increase of tankers carrying raw bitumen in our waters is not beneficial for Vancouver Island residents. The $4.5 billion used to purchase this aged pipeline and tanker project could have restored, protected and enhanced wild salmon habitats, developed clean energy training and jobs for our young people and capitalized the infrastructure required for a transition from fossil fuels use in our communities. Major projects must be safe for the environment; have the free, prior and informed consent of Indigenous communities and create local jobs. Trans Mountain does not meet these criteria and I oppose its expansion.

Mark de Bruijn, Green Trans Mountain intends to ship the lowest grade, highest cost oil on the planet through Vancouver and then BC coastal waters where a spill would devastate the fishery, wildlife and tourism. In exchange for this risk, not a single job will be generated for Vancouver Islanders.

Trans Mountain has no long term contracts in Asia to diversify its customer base. Currently, all tanker shipments by Trans Mountain go to the US for expensive, specialized processing.

In a world of global warming, the least desirable product will be bitumen. Massive new investments for bitumen upgraders in Asia will not happen.

Shelley Downey, Conservative The Trans Mountain pipeline is beneficial to all islanders and Canadians. There are many people living in our riding that support themselves and their families by working in the oil and gas sector. The twinning of the pipeline provides jobs and access to markets for our natural resource. The accompanying tax dollars allow Canada to offer the services and safety net that we have.

Goods are already moving through our waters with the use of pilots on board ships.

This has proven to be a good safety practise.

its capacity, increase tanker traffic nearly seven-fold, and increase greenhouse gas emissions. This project is not beneficial to Vancouver Island residents or Canadians.

Climate change is the defining issue of our century and how we respond will determine the survival of future generations.

The Liberal government’s approval of the project ignores criticisms of the project’s violation of Indigenous rights and concerns raised over the substantial risks posed to the environment, marine life and coastal communities by increased tanker traffic and inevitable oil spills.

Lydia Hwitsum, Green No: Not compared to the risk to our coastline, all species that rely on the ecosystem and the potential long-term irreversible impacts of a catastrophic spill. There is a need to ensure that we protect our precious coastline that has sustained us over time. We must immediately start to transition towards renewable energy and make strategic investments that lead to a just transition for all workers to a green economy that is sustainable.

October 10, 2019—Ha-Shilth-Sa—Page 11

How is it possible for Canada to continue to grow its economy – including the energy sector – while lessening damage to the environment?

Courtenay – Alberni Byron Horner, Conservative Climate change is real and Canada is responsible for 1.6% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Emissions don’t recognize borders. Canada has an environmentally responsible energy sector and growing our energy sector vs dirtier sources from countries with next to no environmental standards is a net gain for our planet. Canadian LNG gas also displaces dirtier sources like coal (50% of global emissions) as the world responsibly transitions to more sustainable energy sources. In our www.realplan.ca we set out how promoting and exporting Canadian green technology is the best way to lessen damage to the environment and meet our international commitments.

Jonah Gowans, Liberal I believe the growth of the Canadian economy will begin to shift. Renewable forms of energy and new technologies are going to have to be leaders for Canada’s economy to continue to grow. This is why a re-elected Liberal government will cut clean technology companies' taxes in half, giving them an advantage and helping them grow. Also important will be the Carbon Tax. BC has had a Carbon Tax for a decade, it has helped lower emissions and BC’s economy is still growing. Canada has followed BC’s lead and I believe it will experience similar results.

Sean Wood, Green In 2017, there were 268,000 clean energy and 436,000 energy efficiency jobs in Canada. Projections put future careers in energy efficiency retrofits alone at 4,000,000.

Transitioning to the green economy will allow Canadians to prosper while lessening damage to the environment.

Eric Plummer photo

The logging of old growth in the Nahmint Valley south of Sproat Lake is part of Vancouver Island's continued reliance on natural resource extraction industries.

The Green Party plans to establish a Canadian Sustainable Generations Fund to make critical investments in trades, apprenticeships and education required for the transition to a green economy. This will complement national infrastructure investments in energy efficiency, renewable energy production, digital upgrades, clean-tech manufacturing and emerging technologies, tourism, the creative economy, and the care

North Island – Powell River Rachel Blaney, NDP The economy needs to change to reflect the reality of the environmental challenges we’re facing. Currently Canadians are paying the price while big polluters profit and emissions rise. We'll end all fossil fuel subsidies and reinvest that money into good jobs, transitioning to carbon-free electricity, and making homes and work places more energy efficient. Our plan will create 300,000 good jobs, and cut emissions to what the science says is necessary to confront the climate emergency. We can make life more affordable for families, and bring reliable work to communities all across the country, but it

economy.

Gord Johns, NDP Economic growth in Canada will not have meaning for Nuu-chah-nulth people, communities and businesses unless barriers are removed to their full participation. I am fighting for the creation of good jobs through local infrastructure investment to make Nuuchah-nulth communities more livable--from

Plan helps fund habitat restoration. If money is scarce, we must be less ambitious.

will take courage.

Peter Shwarzhoff, Liberal As the world transitions to a clean economy we must ensure that our policies are designed to take advantage of opportunities.

Canada stands be a global leader in clean tech and green jobs. A strong, innovative economy will allow a faster, smoother transition. This is why we say repeatedly “The economy and the environment are inextricably linked.”

A strong economy gives us the money to fix existing environmental problems. For example the $1.5 billion Ocean Protections

Mark de Bruijn, Green The "Green Economy" will feature dramatically and badly needed reductions in greenhouse gasses and all forms of pollution. Economic growth will be fuelled by new jobs: constructing, deploying and then operating renewable energy sources; retrofitting buildings for efficiency; expanding our national fleet of electric vehicles; reforestation, and efficiently recycling materials.

The objective is to "shift" economic activity, not reduce it. Businesses will adjust, then expand. The transition is a management challenge for all Canadians; hence "All

roads to schools to child care centres and everything in between. Massive investment is required for safe and healthy new housing with green energy and training and employment for communities to get the job done.

Major investment to protect wild salmon and restore our forests and watersheds. Transition from fossil fuels to green energy cannot be negotiable.

hands on deck"!

We have the prerequisite science, proven technologies and an educated, flexible workforce. Now, we just need Leadership.

Shelley Downey, Conservative Canada has continually shown its care for the environment. Each resource sector has improved their operations and practises through investment and innovation. This is evident in forestry, mining, oil and gas, and fisheries. Not only are we adapting, we provide safe workplaces and good jobs that allow us to have the life we have in Canada that many nations envy and has immigrants wanting to live here.

Cowichan – Malahat - Langford Blair Herbert, Liberal The answer is transitioning to a green economy; Canada can be world leaders.

For example, Canadian car companies can manufacture electric cars or their components. We can be leaders in manufacturing plant-based plastics. And, yes, this transition must include the energy sector. Manufacturers of fossil fuels can become leaders in clean energy. At one time, everyone had film cameras; now we are digital. Change is difficult. Change is possible. The Liberals are already on the path of green investments and, recently, announced their plan to cut corporate taxes in half for companies that develop technologies or products with zero emissions.

Alistair MacGregor, NDP It is absolutely possible for Canada to continue to grow its economy including the energy sector while lessening damage to the environment – if we make the transition to the clean-energy economy of the future. If we fail to act now, the environmental and economic costs will be immense.

The NDP's New Deal for People will set

tough, science-based targets in-line with limiting climate warming to 1.5 degrees, backed by legislation. We will immediately end subsidies to fossil fuel companies, instead investing them in clean-energy initiatives. Our plan creates more than 300,000 good jobs while protecting our air, land, and water.

Lydia Hwitsum, Green Mission: Possible, the Green Climate Emergency Action Plan sets out the approach to transition out of fossil fuel dependency and transition our economy and retool society to run on non-polluting renewable energy. This includes the retro-fit of buildings to address energy waste, creating new green opportunities for workers and investments in the development of a green transportation network that is sustainable. A green economy respects nature’s limits and provides everyone with a dignified quality of life, embraces diversity and ensures responsible stewardship of public finances in that process. A just transition to a green economy will support and invest in workers and ensure justice in the workplace.

Clayoquot Sound north of Tofino.

The Greens are the only party that has promised to meet the targets recommended by the UN Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change. The Green plan leverages renewable industries as massive economic

growth sectors. It will also invest in new training, retraining programs and social services to ensure a smooth and just transition from the old economy to the new.

Page 12— Ha-Shilth-Sa—October 10, 2019

Aquaculture provides jobs for thousands of people in British Columbia – particularly in coastal communities with limited economic opportunity. But many fear that fish farms are harming the migration of wild salmon by spreading disease and disrupting the ocean’s ecological balance. Do you support net pens remaining in the ocean?

Courtenay – Alberni Byron Horner, Conservative I support abundant and sustainable wild salmon stocks through enhancement, habitat restoration and enforcement, and the local jobs that come from responsible salmon farming. On land, closed containment salmon farming is not currently economically viable so rather than banning anything outright, we should take a science-based approach that fills in the knowledge gaps and settles conflicting science about fish farming. Wild salmon and all that they represent – culturally, environmentally and economically – appear at risk but fish farming is an

important Nuu Chah Nulth employer. Let’s settle the science on this and move forward in a transparent and fair manner.

Jonah Gowans, Liberal The Liberal Party of Canada is committing to transitioning all open net-pen salmon farming to closed containment systems by 2025. I believe this transition is fair, while also placing the proper importance on protecting our wild salmon.

Sean Wood, Green Ocean acidification, increased water

temperatures and decreased oxygen levels associated with climate change are threatening all fisheries, even those that are sustainably managed. In the face of this threat, we must do everything possible to minimize the stresses that we can control, giving the ocean its best chance to adapt to changing conditions.

By 2025, the Green Party commits to move all open-net pen finfish aquaculture facilities into closed containment systems on land. As with land farmers transitioning from conventional production, we will provide financial and extension support to workers and coastal communities to make the transition to landbased aquaculture.

Gord Johns, NDP We are blessed with the world’s longest coastline and fisheries that sustain us as coastal people. Fishing is a deep-rooted part of Nuu-chah-nulth culture and those who depend economically on fishing need a government working with them to build a strong and sustainable future. In order to protect wild Pacific salmon, I support the Cohen Commission recommendations and promise to work with British Columbia and First Nations to support the transition of fish farms to land-based closed-containment systems.

I will continue to push for compensation for all workers and their families who may be affected by this transition.

Cowichan – Malahat - Langford Blair Herbert, Liberal This is a complex topic; Blair would look to work through the BC Salmon Restoration and Innovation Fund for the answer to this question. This Fund was established in partnership with the provincial government; the Liberal government is contributing 70% of the funding. The Fund’s priorities are: 1.Restoration and maintenance of healthy salmon populations and habitats, 2. Improved performance and sustainability of fisheries, and 3. Sustainability of the aquaculture industry to ensure the conservation of marine ecosystems and wild fish populations.

Of equal importance, this Fund is committed to collaborating with Indigenous groups, industry and academic communities for solutions.

Alistair MacGregor, NDP Protecting our wild Pacific salmon has been a top priority for me. I have risen in the House of Commons countless times to ask the Liberal government to do more to protect our wild Pacific salmon by increasing habitat protection, providing funding for infrastructure adaption projects, and moving opennet fish farms from wild salmon migration routes to land-based closed-containment.

I was proud to support my NDP colleague, Fin Donnelly’s Bill C-228 which would have required the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans to create a transition plan from harmful open-net pens to safe, closed containment systems. Unfortunately, the government squashed it.

Lydia Hwitsum, Green NO. We need to work with provincial gov-

North Island – Powell River Rachel Blaney, NDP The good work that has been done by the ‘Namgis, the Kwikwasut’inuxw Haxwa’mis and Mamalilikulla First Nations in the Broughton has created a framework for the industry, government and First Nations to move forward. I’m committed to working with them all towards a closed containment solution that keeps good jobs in our communities and protects our wild salmon. I have been calling for the federal government to support the industry in this transition, and to make this one piece of a full strategy to protect wild salmon. Our region has the workers, the processing, affordable land, and expertise that can make us leaders in a sustainable industry we can all be proud of.

Peter Shwarzhoff, Liberal With global demand for salmon increasing, it’s not surprising that the salmon farming industry has flourished, employing over 12,000 people in rural coastal communities, and provides over $2.5 Billion in economic value.

Scientists at DFO take all risks to salmon seriously including any which might be posed by the aquaculture industry. Problems were found and corrected. In collaboration with the province and First Nations, sites have been relocated. Industry has continuously improved their systems to control lice and viruses and new technologies are constantly being deployed. DFO is satisfied that the risk of these operations is minimal to wild salmon. But they remain vigilant.

Aquaculture net pens in Nootka Sound. ernments to eliminate aquaculture practices that damage the marine environment and threaten human health. There must be a moratorium on new open-ocean net-pen salmon farms and a phase-out of existing farms.

The Greens will give funding priority to small-scale projects to restore and enhance

wild fish stocks, especially with Aboriginal peoples and traditional fishing communities using traditional technologies. Sustainably managed closed pen containment mitigates the significant risk to our wild salmon caused by open net pens.

Mark de Bruijn, Green Pen-based Aquaculture never intended to damage the natural, wild salmon fishery. It was hoped that antibiotics, drugs and technology would safely manage dense Atlantic salmon populations in the Pacific Ocean.

There is every indication that it has failed; the pens will have to come out. As soon as possible. However, our investments in aquaculture need not be wasted. The Americans and Norwegians are now investing heavily into contained land-based aquaculture. I want to bring all the players in our fishery together to seriously consider transitioning to land based aquaculture...a private-public sector investment opportunity.

Global warming means a hungry world.

investment and innovation, they have continually improved their practises for the betterment of the environment and the fish they are producing.

Salmon farms are one of Canada’s most regulated food industries. As the world continues to look for protein, farmed salmon provides a cheap form of protein that is produced in a relatively small area. As we continue to reduce our GHG emissions, it is noteworthy that farmed salmon has a very low carbon footprint (2.2 kg of CO2/Kg) of edible product. Salmon farms provide good non-seasonal jobs. First nations make up about 20% of the workforce and the farms are often located close to their homes.

Conservatives are committed to innovation in the industry. We believe in increasing sustainability and environmental performance of the industry.

Shelley Downey, Conservative The salmon farms of today are not the same as the ones I knew in the late 80’s. Through

Phrase of the week - C*aamiht’a%i t’aaputs*i+ y’aqc*ina%a+ik Pronounced cha-mirh-tah-ee-taa-put-shilt-yahk-chin-upk-ikt, this means be sure you know you are voting for the right person.

Ivy Cargill-Martin illustration

October 10, 2019—Ha-Shilth-Sa—Page 13

Loved ones and members of the extended Tla-o-qui-aht community held a walk for Lisa Marie Young on June 30, 17 years after the young woman went missing without a trace in Nanaimo.

This year the Missing and Murdered Inquiry into Indigenous Women and Girls concluded, but Aboriginal women continue to go missing and fall victim to homicide at a significantly higher rate than the Canadian average. Beyond the inquiry, what else needs to be done to make this country safer for Indigenous women?

Courtenay – Alberni Byron Horner, Conservative In partnership with Indigenous peoples, a new Conservative government will develop and implement a National Action Plan, to advance reconciliation, address violence and achieve measurable improvements in the day-to-day lives of Indigenous women and girls. Examples of recommendations that could meaningfully improve the lives of Indigenous women and girls: - Standardization of protocols for policies and practices that ensure that all cases are thoroughly investigated.

- Establish a national task force to review and, if required, to reinvestigate cases across Canada.

- Ensure protection orders are available,

accessible, promptly issued and effectively serviced and resourced to protect victims.

Jonah Gowans, Liberal The Inquiry lays out 190 pages worth of recommendations. To start I think any leader should read the entire report and be prepared to work to fulfill every recommendation in there as the report is well thought out. I think fundamentally what the report shows is how systemic violence against aboriginal women is. So to make Canada safer for Aboriginal women you need to value Aboriginal women. Systemic violence means the system allows it. If Aboriginal Women are valued society would not allow violence on this level to exist. So to start, every leader needs

Cowichan – Malahat – Langford Blair Herbert, Liberal Liberals are committed to ending this tragedy. The job now is to develop a national action plan – as called for by the Inquiry – to implement its recommendations.

Beyond the Inquiry, Blair sees two more avenues to pursue. Firstly, as a previous RCMP officer himself, he believes the Inquiry was a wake-up call for national and local police forces, mobilizing them to improve their investigation into missing indigenous women and girls. Secondly, he believes the Federal government needs to work to remove barriers and open doors for

Aboriginal women to access education and employment, providing them greater options for their future.

Alistair MacGregor, NDP Working in partnership with Indigenous women, the families of the missing and murdered, and communities, the NDP will work to implement the Inquiry’s 231 Calls for Justice and the calls to action brought forward by communities.

We also need to guarantee the human rights and dignity of Indigenous Peoples in Canadian law. I was proud when my NDP col-

North Island – Powell River Rachel Blaney, NDP After the Conservatives refused to address the tragedy of missing and murdered Indigenous women for almost a decade, the Liberal government finally launched a long overdue inquiry – but then set it up with a limited mandate, and failed to adequately care for the families who courageously shared their stories. The Inquiry’s finding of a genocide against Indigenous women in Canada demands action from all Canadians.

I will work in partnership with Indigenous women, the families of the missing and murdered, and communities to implement the Inquiry’s Calls for Justice and the calls to

to value Aboriginal Women.

communities.

Sean Wood, Green The Inquiry’s Calls for Justice require transformative legal and social changes to resolve this crisis. Greens will fully implement the recommendations of the Inquiry as well as the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

Greens will develop a comprehensive Canada-wide plan of action – with a timetable and dedicated funding – to eliminate violence against women, girls and genderdiverse people in collaboration with women’s and Indigenous organizations. Greens will address the root causes of violence and ensure equitable access to basic rights such as housing, education, and health care, and secure transportation to rural and remote

Gord Johns, NDP Beyond acting on the Inquiry’s calls for justice, all governments must respect solutions from self-determining nations and work together towards the implementation of their action plans. These plans will certainly include both a serious examination of fundamental causes of violence against women and massive investment in housing, day care, jobs and family support services. Importantly, Canada must address racism and bias towards Indigenous women within its education, health care and justice systems. All children should learn to celebrate cultural diversity at the earliest age. Similarly, cultural safety must be assured for Indigenous people by the RCMP and other service providers.

league Romeo Saganash’s Bill C-262 passed unanimously in the House of Commons. It would have enshrined the United Nations Rights on Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) into Canadian law. Sadly, it died in the unelected and unaccountable Senate at the time of the election.

and Reconciliation Commission, as well as the recommendations from the Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. We need to ensure we support the development of Indigenous education curricula that are language and culture specific.

Ensure that every First Nations, Métis and Inuit child has access to quality educational opportunities based on the expressed cultural, political and social priorities of the First Nations, Métis and Inuit governments, following meaningful consultation. We must also educate non-Indigenous Canadians on the history, customs, traditions and cultures of the First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples of Turtle Island.

Lydia Hwitsum, Green There are many recommendations that need to be prioritized and implemented. We need to make investments that make a real difference in the lives of Indigenous women. That means listening and responding to Indigenous womens’ priorities. The Greens will implement the Calls to Action from the Truth other government in the last 50 years. We are committed to closing the gap.

action brought forward by communities.

Peter Shwarzhoff, Liberal Liberals are committed to ending this ongoing tragedy. We accept the findings of the report and have started to develop an action plan, as recommended. It will be developed in partnership with First Nations and Metis governments as well as with the families of the missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls.

We have started on the path to reconciliation and although we know we have a very long way to go, Perry Bellegarde has said we have already made more progress than any

Mark de Bruijn, Green Greens will re-introduce legislation to enshrine UNDRIP and will implement the recommendations from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Greens will legislate housing as a fundamental human right, and will prioritize high quality, safe and affordable housing. A Green national transportation strategy, including services to rural and remote communities, will ensure access to reliable, affordable transportation.

Under the leadership of Indigenous organizations, Greens support the formal inclusion of traditional healing within mental wellness

programs. The Green budget allocates $10 billion for free college and university tuition and removes the 2% cap on increases in education funding for Indigenous students.

Shelley Downey, Conservative I have picked up female hitchhikers while traveling around the north island. Why? To help them get to their destination safely. I have even rented rooms for a night so that they were safe until they could continue their travels the next day. Access to reliable transportation would certainly keep all women from harm. In addition, the expansion of cell service into remote areas and communities provides the ability to call for help.

Page 14— Ha-Shilth-Sa—October 10, 2019

Awatin Art closes after three years in business Owners unable to remain operating due to thefts, but close with a collection of stories from First Nation artists Andrea D. Smith Ha-Shilth-Sa Contributor Campbell River, BC - Ernie Smith and his wife, Darlene, are sad but hopeful for the future, as their store, Awatin Art in downtown Campbell River, moved through its last days.

The decision to close the store permanently didn’t come lightly, but because of a high number of recent thefts, the pair can’t afford to stay open.

Ernie and Darlene opened the store together just three years ago, and despite their disappointment now, still have many fond memories.

“Yes, we had a total of three break ins in our store. We have an alarm system, and we have insurance. And all that really doesn’t help,” said Ernie, adding that the downside to theft insurance is the $1,000 deductible.

That hasn’t been worth accessing based on what the pair originally paid for the stolen items.

“We had a major theft, too,” continued Ernie. “Somebody walked into our store, and asked to see an expensive gold bracelet. The store person handed it to them and they ran out. But we got a picture of the guy we actually posted all over Facebook… and the police caught him.”

Unfortunately, by the time the thief was caught, the bracelet was already gone from his possession. Ernie wasn’t told how the police would resolve the situation (what charges would be laid, and the sentence to follow), but he knows he will not be receiving any kind of repayment; the thief just doesn’t have the cash to spare. The bracelet was worth $3,600 dollars, and was a highly valuable piece carved by Chief Darren Blaney of the Hamalco First Nation.

Ernie and Darlene ran the store on consignment, paying artists 40 per cent of the total worth of their items.

“It’s all just costing too much,” he said,

FEDERAL ELECTION

Ernie Smith/Facebook photo

Darlene and Ernie Smith had their Awatin Art store open for its last day on Saturday, Sep. 28 in Campbell River. adding that while he requested to put bars on the windows and doors of the store when they first opened, the building owner said no.

But of course, all is not lost. Ernie has some great stories to share from the time that he has been open. He and Darlene have been the facilitators of some local art repatriations.

“We had a person that came in to consign this old rattle,” said Ernie. “It was a really old rattle… It was a duck shape. The wood was sewed together because it was cracking so much, and it was just falling apart. But it was just a beautiful thing. I was in awe of seeing this thing come into the store.”

“So we ended up having collectors fight over it, and we sold it for $5,000. And that was found in the dump,” he said.

Another favorite story of his—even more powerful than the rattle—is the tale of a ceremonial mask that came into their care.

Ernie and his wife often travelled around to auctions, in Canada and the U.S. They purchased the mask at an auction in Vancouver, then took it back to their store, and put it on display. They knew it had been

carved by a Sam Henderson, but figured it was the junior, not the senior Sam. “We had it in this glass case, and this young native guy came into the store,” recounted Ernie. “And he looked at the mask and he said, ‘Dad, come over here and look at this mask…. They got grandpa’s mask in there’.”

After hearing some of the history of the mask—especially that it was the young man’s grandfather’s potlatch mask—Ernie and Darlene went home, mulled it over, and decided they should give the mask back to the family. The next day they heard from the head of the family, Chief William Henderson, who had found out about the mask from another relative. Ernie gave him the news, and the chief and some family came to the store to pick it up right away.

“When all their family came in the store and they saw that mask in there, they all started crying,” recounted Ernie. “That’s how attached they were. They were so emotional when they saw that mask. That’s why we decided to give it back to them…

They had this connection to this mask and their grandfather.”

“We have a picture of Jonathon Hender-

son with his grandfather’s mask. It’s pretty powerful. Jonathon was even teary eyed from that, too. He was speechless,” added Ernie.

His last favorite story is the story of a lovely lady elder, who was married to Jonathon Henderson’s hereditary chief father.

The woman went into the store one day, and discovered her deceased husband’s artwork on display, a painting of a bear.

Darlene didn’t know the price of it, so the elder had to come back the next day. The evening before both Darlene and Ernie decided they’d give this piece away, too, to bring it back to someone who would truly cherish it.

“She was very happy… she was crying she was so happy,” said Ernie, about the elder lady’s reaction.

The store’s last day open was Saturday, Sept. 28. Everything in the store was 30-50 per cent off. After that, it’ll be online only at Awatinart.com. They hope to start up another store someday, but have no definite plans as of now.

“We’re pretty sad,” said Ernie. “But then again things happen for a reason… change happens and change is good. We’ll roll with the changes.”

M O N D AY, O C TO B E R 21

Election day is October 21. Are you registered to vote?

Q Q

Yes – Check your voter information card. It tells you when and where to vote.

No or don’t know – Contact Elections Canada to find out where and when to vote. You can register at your polling station when you go to vote.

Visit elections.ca for the official information you need to vote 1-800-463-6868

elections.ca

TTY 1-800-361-8935

#ItsOurVote

October 10, 2019—Ha-Shilth-Sa—Page 15

Hesquiaht's hydroelectric alternative remains on hold Until the feds commit, remote community of approximately 50 residents is dependant on diesel from Tofino Mike Youds Ha-Shilth-Sa Contributor Hot Springs Cove, BC - A run-of-river hydroelectric project designed to reduce reliance on diesel fuel at Hot Springs Cove remains in hiatus a year after Hesquiaht First Nation had hoped to see it operational.

While some provincial government funds have been earmarked for the $14.7-million project over the past year, they hinge upon whether HFN can obtain federal financial support, said Chief Counsellor Richard Lucas.

With a federal election in full swing, he’s not expecting to have the soughtafter funding confirmed in the short term.

A second review of projects for the Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities Program (CEERC), administered by Natural Resources Canada, was completed in spring 2019. Hesquiaht’s proposal was not among projects selected for funding in that round.

The 250-kilowatt hydro facility proposed for Ahtaapq Creek would seem to be a perfect fit for remote Hot Springs Cove. CEERC was set up to reduce reliance among rural and remote communities with an emphasis on First Nations.

Reducing use of diesel fuel, a greenhouse gas contributing to climate change, is among its main objectives.

Lucas, who has been working on the alternative energy project since he was elected chief councillor four years ago, remains confident that funding can be secured.

“I’ll be optimistic and say that it could be on for this coming budget year,” he said.

Hot Springs Cove is among half a dozen communities along the Island’s west coast that rely on supplies of diesel fuel, barged from Tofino, to run generators for electricity. The only existing backup for

Barkley Project Group

Access road along Ahtaapq Creek near Hot Springs Cove, where the Hesquiaht First Nation plans to develop hydroelectric power. warmth in winter is wood heat. Winter weather has delayed supplies for two to three weeks, Lucas said.

The hydro power project would reduce use of diesel by an estimated 75 percent, while enabling major cost savings for the First Nation estimated to range from $500,000 to $750,000 per year.

To date, $1.3 million has been provided

by CEERC for construction of an access road along Ahtaapq Creek. That initial part of construction is complete. Design and regulatory permitting were also completed last year, including a boundary adjustment to Maquinna Marine Provincial Park that allows access through the park.

As well, a $500,000 equity grant from

B.C.’s First Nations Energy Business Fund was confirmed last summer. More recently, another $500,000 piece was awarded in March through B.C.’s Rural Dividend Fund.

Hesquiaht’s project partner is Nanaimobased Barkley Project Group, which specializes in renewable energy systems.

The company has designed and built a series of small-scale power projects for B.C. First Nations, including Winchie Creek Hydro, Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation’s third hydro project.

Other BPG projects include Little Nitinat River Hydro with Ditidaht First Nations and Sarita River Hydro with Huu-ay-aht First Nations. Canoe Creek,

Tla-o-qui-aht’s first hydro facility, has been operational for almost 10 years.

A year ago, BPG and Hesquiaht were hoping for an early start on site preparation to proceed with facility construction this past spring. At that time, project completion was scheduled for some time in 2019.

Hesquiaht First Nation has been making steady progress on other fronts, Lucas said. A six-room lodge at Hot Springs Cove is completed and should be ready to receive guests next spring. As well, a sewer and water replacement project is going ahead in Hot Springs Cove, meaning the 50 or so residents can expect to their streets excavated in the process.

Partnership taps into growing seaweed market Kelp growing sites in Barkley Sound and Useless Inlet are expected to bring 90 tons for harvest by next spring

By Sam Laskaris Ha-Shilth-Sa Contributor Port Alberni, BC – The Nuu-chah-nulth Seafood Limited Partnership (NSLP) is certainly not resting on its laurels.

In 2018 the Port Alberni-based company was one of the recipients of a BC Indigenous Business Award via the Business Partnership of the Year category.

The NSLP has continued to make positive strides since garnering that award, presented by the BC Achievement Foundation.

It was announced in mid September that the NSLP has entered into an agreement with Cascadia Seaweed Corporation to cultivate seaweed for an ever-demanding global market.

Larry Johnson, who has been the NSLP president for 11 years, said the NSLP/ Cascadia partnership was forged rather quickly.

“I’m surprised how fast we’re pulling it together,” he said. “We created a strategic plan and are working towards an end goal.”

NSLP officials kicked off a research project this past January with four test sites for growing kelp.

Johnson said it was this past June when his company first met Cascadia execu-

tives at a conference in Courtenay. There was mutual admiration for the businesses’ work.

“All things came together quickly,” Johnson said. “And we agreed to talk more.”

In August, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the two parties.

Following NSLP’s research project earlier this year, two locations were chosen – in Barkley Sound and in Useless Inlet, which is near the beginning of the Alberni Inlet – to begin cultivation in partnership.

“These two areas proved to be the best growing sites,” Johnson said.

Mike Williamson, the president of the Cascadia Seaweed Corporation, is thrilled with the new partnership with the NSLP. “This is an exciting market, and kelp and other high-quality seaweeds will comprise an increasingly large part of diets and industrial processes,” he said in a news release.

Williamson added he’s anticipating working alongside NSLP officials.

“We look forward to the contributions we can make to diversification and support in local communities,” he said.

The NSLP began as a shellfish development corporation in 2003. The

business is now owned by six Nuuchah-nulth First Nations. They are Huuay-aht, Ditidaht, Mowachaht/Muchalaht, Ka:’yu:’k’t’h’/Che:k’tles7et’h’ First Nations, Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ Government and the Uchucklesaht Tribe.

After provincial licensing has been granted, Johnson expects seeding of the Barkley Sound and Useless Inlet areas, covering several acres, to begin soon.

“It all depends,” he said. “But my sense is it will start at the end of October or early November.”

Harvesting will then be done next May or June where the yield is expected to be a whopping 90 tons of kelp.

“We’ll have to monitor it weekly,” Johnson added. “And it depends on what type of winter we have.”

Johnson is expecting this new venture will create some new employment.

“I think it will be 2-3 new jobs per site,” he said.

Johnson said the partnership with Cascadia is for three years. The two companies have already discussed future development, hopefully quickly growing seaweed in areas covering 20 hectares.

“We have such underused coastlines,” Johnson said.

The process of farming seaweed begins by attaching seedlings onto a rope, strung

between two vertical lines. An anchor and a float are also used.

The rope is placed into water where the seaweed grows. To harvest it is brought onto a boat where it is cut from the rope and brought to shore. After processing it can be sold either in Canada or abroad.

“I think all of the plant will be used in one form or another,” Johnson said.

Besides eating seaweed, people utilize it as a source for vitamins. It’s also used for cosmetics and other industrial uses.

Johnson anticipates the venture with Cascadia Seaweed Corporation will be a rather successful one. And it will assist with a growing demand.

“I think globally it’s huge,” he said of the seaweed market. “We’re talking multi millions of dollars. It’s a really vast venture globally.”

The Cascadia Seaweed Corporation was founded in 2018.

Cascadia officials are hoping to enter into partnership with several other First Nations and coastal communities to seed and harvest seaweed.

Johnson is pleased the NSLP is setting the bar for this type of work.

“We are helping orchestrate it all,” he said. “We want to build a model that works. And we want to prove this model works.”

Page 16— Ha-Shilth-Sa—October 10, 2019

The president’s message to Nuu-chah-nulth-aht Happy October Nuu-Chan-nulth-aht.

The summer flew by and we are into foggy, rainy fall weather.

September was a very busy month.

Highlights include the reconciliation meeting the day before the AGM and the two-day AGM on homelessness.

We had a large number of Nuu-Chahnulth attend our meeting regarding the governments making things right with Nuu-chah-nulth (reconciliation). Our facilitator Shana Manson reported on what she heard as she gathered our members in our communities and in urban centers.

Members were then able to comment on what was heard and add to what was said. Shana will be producing a report that gathers what Nuu-chah-nulth said and this will go to directors for further direction.

Fran Hunt-Jinnouchi from the Aboriginal Coalition to end Homelessness located in Victoria came in to speak to us. They have got involved in providing housing. Their mission is to lovingly provide culturally supportive affordable housing and services that end Aboriginal homelessness on Vancouver island. They know that providing four walls is not enough. We had our NCN staff speak to us as well and they gave us facts and figures about how many of our NCN are living without homes in the various island cities and Vancouver. We were well informed on issues facing our people without homes.

Huu-ay-aht put out a $1,000 challenge to put towards homeless organization and initiatives. Several other First Nations met that challenge. Was gratifying to see this commitment.

The members decided that we should take one day to put together a strategy and we have scheduled this for Nov. 19 at the Tseshaht Great Room. We need a plan on what we can do as First Nations and at the Tribal Council level as the number of NCN without a home is growing.

A powerful presentation from our staff was made on the missing and murdered women and the support they provide to our families. Lisa Watts made a powerful presentation. She read out 48 names of NCN women who have gone missing or murdered since the late ‘60s. As NCN we need to look at the recommendation of the inquiry and determine what actions we can take so no other of our women

Community&Beyond BC Indigenous Business Awards

Oct. 17 Vancouver BC indigenous business owners will be recognized at the annual BC Indigenous Business Awards ceremony, celebrated at the Fairmont Hotel in downtown Vancouver. Reception starts at 5:30pm, with dinner to follow.

Federal Election

Oct. 21 Canadian citizens are eligible to vote on members of parliament. Information on local polling stations and eligibility requirements at elections.ca.

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

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.

Free cultural event

Oct. 26 and girls go missing, are subjected to violence or murder.

We also honoured members from our communities that are making a difference in this world. Was awesome to listen to the work individuals do for the people in their communities. We look forward to more people being honoured next year.

First Nations just have to provide us with names and a brief description The federal election is on Oct. 21 and I have always felt it is a personal choice on whether to vote or not. There are federal issues that impact us every day of our lives, including fisheries, anything related to Indigenous Services Canada - which includes housing, infrastructure and all the services we have on our reserves, and now laws on our languages, families and children. It is not an easy choice as Trudeau made so many promises to us that he did not keep but Scheer as prime minister would not be favourable to Indigenous rights. His famous line was that he won’t stand for First Nations holding development projects “hostage”.

Shows no understanding of our rights, support for implementing the universal declaration of Indigenous right, or any advancement of our rights. It will be very negative for Indigenous peoples if Scheer gets in.

Had a couple of meetings on education and training. Met the new president of VIU Deb Saucin and we talked of ways of strengthening their programs and services for our NCN students. Also met with the B.C. government on how to work together to better serve our NCN in trades training. We have great staff that

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:

are coming up with innovative ideas so that we can improve relations and work with governments and institutions in a better way.

I attended the BCAFN. There are so many issues both federally and provincially and for three days we spend half an hour on each issue and passed resolutions where necessary. The provincial government is working on new laws for implementing UNDRIP and for an Indigenous languages act. This should prove to be very interesting. B.C. must ensure that they talk with each First Nation to get their input on these proposed new laws as that is what the declaration is all about.

The Nuu-Chah-nulth delegation met with National Chief Perry Bellegarde at the BCAFN over dinner. It was a nice chat, a chance to share information and ask questions. Representatives from the nations discussed things like T’aak-wiihak fisheries, specific claims, additions to reserve, emergency services, access to fisheries resources and issues with logging affecting their habitat, funding a first Nation school on reserve, modern treaty relationships within AFN, more resources for First Nations masters and doctoral students, and a national energy strategy.

Suicide Peer Support Group

First Thursday, Monthly Port Alberni The KUU-US Crisis Line Society hold a Suicide Peer Support Group Meeting on the first Thursday of each month at the KUU-US Office location. 4589 Adelaide st Port Alberni.

We also talked logging roads and the transportation issues they create for many of our communities. The national chief undertook to set up meetings, bring issues to various people and bodies and to work closely with Nuu-Chah-nulth.

I also appeared before the BC Utilities Commission and shared the presentation and questions with our lawyer. The issue is, can First Nations look after their own power production in their communities or does it need to be regulated by the BCUC? As First Nations grow, and they put in power production plants whatever that could be - such as solar, run of river, wind, geothermal - they need to be able to regulate their own utility and not have to be subjected to a provincial body. Being our own utility in our communities is one opportunity to make money. BC Hydro should not be the only supplier of power.

These are the highlights of September and there is so much more that I am involved in and appreciate being able to share the most important issues with all of you.

-Kekinusuqs, Judith Sayers

Arthritis, shingles treatment for elders discussed

By Desnie Titian Ha-Shilth-Sa Reporter Port Alberni, BC – As more Nuu-chahnulth-aht enter their golden years, information about health conditions that come with aging becomes more important.

For that reason, organizers of the DAC (Disability Access Committee) fair brought in resource people to focuses on their interests on Oct. 3.

NTC Home Care Nurse Catherine Gislason advised that people should practice positive self-care when living with arthritis. Gislason, a registered nurse, serves as the NTC home care clinical leader and is certified in gerontology.

Arthritis self-care means staying active, eating healthy and managing pain.

According to Gislason, some seniors that suffer with arthritis pain are afraid

to take doctor prescribed Prednisone due to fear of its adverse side effects. Prednisone is a steroid, a potent prescription and effective medication used to treat inflammatory types of arthritis. When the dose is too high, patients can suffer the side effects of thinning skin, acne, weight gain, or puffy face.

Gislason told the crowd that there have been advances in how Prednisone is administered; it’s now much safer to use that it used to be.

Another hot topic at the DAC fair was shingles and the availability of Shingrix vaccine. NTC Nurse Francine Gascoyne described shingles as a very painful rash, caused by the virus that causes chicken pox. It can strike at any age but most people that get shingles are over 50.

Shingles strikes those that had chicken pox – even as a child. The virus lays

dormant in your body and it is believed it can be reactivated in those with a weakened immune system.

There is no way to know who will develop shingles later in life; only that one in three will get it. Usually it’s someone with a compromised immune system – someone dealing with diabetes, HIV/ AIDS or cancer, for example.

Shingles is not life-threatening but it is painful. Symptoms include general illness, flu-like symptoms before a band of rash appears. The rash turns into clusters of blisters which can ooze. It can take weeks for the rash to fade away. If you suspect you are developing shingles in a sensitive area, like near your eyes, seek medical attention immediately, Gascoyne advised.

There is an antiviral medication that can shorten the course and severity of

shingles if administered early enough.

Shingrix, the shingles vaccine, when administered in two doses is up to 90 per cent effective in preventing shingles. But it is expensive, costing more than $200 a dose, according one elder that paid for her vaccination. In recent weeks the First Nations Health Authority rolled out a shingles reimbursement program where Nuu-chah-nulth-aht may get reimbursed for the cost of their vaccination under certain conditions.

According to Gascoyne, if you are between ages 65 and 69 you can buy the vaccine from your pharmacist directly and send your receipt into FNHA for reimbursement. A prescription for Shingrix is not required. However, if you are outside the 65-69 age bracket and concerned about developing shingles your physician may recommend the vaccine.

October 10, 2019—Ha-Shilth-Sa—Page 17

--JOB OPPORTUNITIES --

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

Page 18— Ha-Shilth-Sa—October 10, 2019

Helipad at Tofino hospital aims to provide quicker care Average of 20 patients airlifted from west coast location annually

By Sam Laskaris Ha-Shilth-Sa Contributor Tofino, BC – A functioning helipad is once again operating beside the Tofino General Hospital (TGH).

And that’s good news not only for residents of the west coast district but also for members of various Nuu-chah-nulth First Nations, who at some point might need to be airlifted to or from the Tofino hospital.

Transport Canada officials had requested a previous helipad, which was also next to the TGH, be closed back in 2011 because it was deemed in need of improvements. Since then any out-oftown air evacuations required for TGH patients were handled out of the TofinoLong Beach Airport, almost 20 kilometres away.

“It’s easier when they can leave directly from the hospital,” said Michelle Hanna, TGH’s site director.

In recent years, an average of about 20 people per year had been airlifted by helicopters out of Tofino to other hospitals in the province where they could receive a higher level of care than they could

Island Health

Last summer the Tofino General Hospital regained a helicopter landing pad, after relying on one at the airport for the last eight years. locally. Such trips would take patients to locations such as Vancouver, Victoria or Nanaimo.

Hanna prefers the fact a helipad is now once again right beside the TGH. In recent years, several other possible locations for a Tofino helipad had been considered. But all of those were deemed unsuitable for varying reasons.

The ideal location for the helipad is obviously as close as possible to the hospital.

“What it means for us is that people are able to access a higher level of care in a more timely manner,” she said.

“Tofino can provide stabilizing care for our critically ill patients,” Hanna added.

“But time is of the essence.”

The helipad adjacent to the TGH has been used rather frequently since it officially opened this past June. As of the second week of October, 26 patients had already been airlifted from the Tofino hospital to others across the province.

The airlifts are conducted by members of

B.C. Emergency Health Services.

“It’s certainly exceeded our expectations so far,” Hanna said of the helipad usage, citing the previously aforementioned average of about 20 airlifted patients per year out of Tofino.

The land the helipad is situated on is owned by the Tofino General Hospital Foundation. The helipad project, which cost $845,000, was made possible via a partnership between the foundation as well as Island Health and the AlberniClayoquot Regional Hospital District.

Island Health provides support services and health care to almost 800,000 people across Vancouver Island.

Besides being the Mayor of Tofino, Josie Osborne is also the chair of the Alberni-Clayoquot Regional Hospital District. Osborne is thrilled the Tofino hospital once again has a helipad right beside its facility.

“No one wants to think about needing an emergency trip to a hospital in Victoria or Vancouver, but it’s absolutely essential

that we can provide it when necessary,” Osborne said in a news release. “This helipad is a critical piece of infrastructure for the west coast region. And we are grateful to see it completed.”

Ahousaht First Nation Chief Councillor Greg Louie is also pleased to see a working helipad next to the TGH again, even if it is a rare occurrence when a community member would need to be airlifted to Tofino.

“Nonetheless, Ahousaht does appreciate that this service is there,” Louie said, adding perhaps one day a community member already at the Tofino hospital might need to be moved by air to another hospital.

Louie added it is comforting to know the TGH does have a helipad in case one of his community members “It will be helpful to have this,” he said. “It will be a good service if one of our members needs to be responded to quickly.”

ADSS welcomes new Indigenous students Alberni District Secondary School treated the incoming First Nations eighth graders with a barbecue on Sept. 26

By Deborah Potter Ha-Shilth-Sa Staff Port Alberni, BC — Alberni District Secondary School opened its doors for Indigenous eighth grade students and their families with their third annual barbecue.

Around 125 people arrived to enjoy barbecued hot dogs and delicious salmon donated by the Tseshaht, Uchucklesaht, Huu-ay-aht and Hupacasath nations.

There were door prizes, blackberry crumble for desert, and plenty of singing and dancing to be had courtesy of the Tseshaht canoe family.

“We like to start the school year in a nice way,” Nuu-chah-nulth Education Worker Diane Gallic said to ADSS’ new students, “to make you all feel welcome.”

This year, ADSS has over 300 Indigenous youth, which is almost a quarter of the student body. Nuu-chah-nulth Education Workers and staff on the Indigenous

leadership team spent time finding new ways to bring culture into their school.

“A lot of our (Indigenous) students come from Haahuupayak and Ahousaht,” NEW Georgina Sutherland said to Hashilth-sa.

A Nuu-chah-nulth course was brought into the school a couple of years ago for those students who were interested.

The curriculum offered Nuu-chah-nulth language, traditional stories, crafts, and Nuu-chah-nulth history.

Besides the Nuu-chah-nulth class, Gallic and Sutherland wanted to incorporate more culture into the school.

This year, they have Nuu-chah-nulth singing and dancing offered as an extracurricular activity, as well as the possibility of organizing a lahal tournament.

NEW staff and Moira Barney, the Nuuchah-nulth class teacher, are working together to also try to incorporate drum making into the class curriculum.

The Alberni District Secondary School welcomed First Nations eighth graders to the high school with a barbecue on Sept. 26.

October 10 October 10, 2019—Ha-Shilth-Sa—Page 19

Eric Plummer photos

Capt. Ben Hughes of ther Victoria Airport Fire Department stands with other Tour de Rock riders on Sept. 27 at the Alberni Athletic Hall, after being blanketed at the event. Below are Const. Mitch Gordon (left) of the Nanaimo RCMP and Const. Mark Hendren of the Saanich Police Department.

Riders blanketed at Tour de Rock dinner Annual trek covers 1,100 kilometres across Vancouver Island to raise funds for childhood cancer treatment Eric Plummer Ha-Shilth-Sa Editor Port Alberni, BC - Police and other emergency service providers made what has become their annual stop in Port Alberni on Friday, Sept. 27 during the Cops for Cancer Tour de Rock bike ride.

The 1,100-kilometre trek across Vancouver Island to raise funds for childhood cancer treatment has stopped in Port Alberni in recent years, with a fundraising dinner held in the honour of the police officers, firefighters and other emergency

service providers who participate in the two-week ride.

This year an event was held at the Alberni Athletic Hall, concluding with the riders being blanketed and treated to a song by Tseshaht member Aaron Watts.

Organizer Matilda Atleo was also blanketed for her efforts in coordinating the extensive meal, which included turkey, ham, halibut and salmon.

On the following day the Tour de Rock bicycle riders hit Highway 4, bound for communities on Vancouver Island’s west coast.

Orange shirts across Canada

By Deborah Potter Ha-Shilth-Sa Staff On September 30th, Orange Shirt Day was celebrated across Canada. This year marks the sixth annual Orange Shirt Day, and each year it falls on the same day. The end of September is historically known as the time of year indigenous children were taken from their families and homes to go to residential school.

When six-year old Phyllis Jack Websted went to her first year of residential school in 1973, she attended her first day in her newest bright orange shirt, which she said was “bright and exciting”, just like how

Submitted photos

Orange Shirt Day was celebrated in Kyuquot (left) and across Canada on Sept.

30. Pictured above are Kyuquot students Kamea and Kaida Joseph.

she felt to be going to school.

Upon arrival at St. Joseph’s Mission residential school, her and many other kids were stripped of their clothes and belongings, and Phyllis never saw her bright orange shirt ever again. She says that with this act, she has felt her feelings didn’t matter, no one cared, and she felt like she was nothing.

Her experience is used today as a chance to explain to students about residential schools and their assimilation practices.

Her story resonates with many other survivors, and encourages Canadians to learn about the horrors and traumas that happened in residential schools.

Page 20— Ha-Shilth-Sa—October 10, 2019