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December 2011
Remembering Christmas Back Home Christmas memories as
told by Maria Linklaker. Transcribed by Armand LaPlante
“I was born and raised in Thunderchild for the first 7 years of my life but then I went to boarding school. But I remember we’d come home for Christmas and new years, and to celebrate, everybody in the community would cook in their homes and then everybody would go visiting. Everyone would feed you. Everyone would give used articles, something that you liked, you’d give it to somebody or you’d make something. You’d make a quilt, or you’d give dry berries or dry fish. You would go give these things to the people that don’t have them. On Christmas you would get to be with your grand parents, your parents, all the relatives. And I remember the people would have a sleigh, a beautiful sleigh, like the sleigh Santa Claus has with a cab with one seat in front and one seat in the back. There would be people in it and there would be bells on the horse; you could hear the horses pulling the sleigh in the nice, crisp sounding snow. And you could hear the horses coming and the bells would be jingling and the people would come and visit you for a while and maybe they’d take you for a ride and bring you back. That’s the way it was, there was a lot of love and lots of visiting. That’s what I remember. Then we’d go back to the residential school and we’d lose contact with our families again. There were two celebrations: Christmas and New Years. On New Years everyone would go around kissing people and we didn’t want to be kissed so we would hide. But my grandmother would tell us that’s not respectful and to allow people to kiss you, because we weren’t used to being kissed by other people. In my family there were eight of us girls, we would get to visit my cousins; there would be lots going on.
Elders Walter and Maria Linklater. Submitted photo
People would be cooking rabbit, moose meat, deer meat; we would have fish and bannock. It would be a nice celebration. I don’t remember too many ceremonies going on, all I remember was midnight mass. Everyone would show up to the church at 11 on Christmas eve and mass would start at midnight. I don’t remember the celebration for New Years, but people would celebrate with cooking and visiting. It was nice, so nice. Life was so beautiful at that time; you would wake up so happy. We didn’t have air pollution like we have today, lots of people were healthy. But at that time too lots of people passed on with old age; there was a lot of old people. Just about every household had an old person living with them and they would look after them. It was never right to put our people in an old folks home, people shared and looked after the person in their home, the whole family would. That’s what I remember. Today Christmas is commercialized. The celebration was for Jesus being born but today that’s almost not [cel-
ebrated as much]. It’s good that they have that, but they should never lose that. Not like how we lost our way; the way we would celebrate our lives. We’re just learning to go back to our way of life using ceremony. It’s good because it brought the family together. But I often wish that a lot of us, like my family especially, would have known our way of life using spirituality and using ceremonies in our lives. I think life would have been a lot better for us. Both my parents are gone now, my mother was always the big force in our Christmas. She was the one to prepare us and tell us ‘it’s going to be a nice celebration’. She would take us visiting and my father would come along But today both of them
are gone; my older sisters are gone. It’s just us now, and the oldest in the family bring everyone together now. We still celebrate now but in a different way. We do it in a feast and have a pipe ceremony or midnight mass. We have a sweat [lodge] for New Year’s eve. A lot of people come to our sweat to celebrate the New Year. I still like celebrating Christmas, I love Christmas because it brings family together and you celebrate life. That’s the way it should be. When I really look back, Christmas is everyday for First Nations people because we give gifts; we give to each other every time we see each other. When we go visit somebody we come home with lots of gifts, so giving was always our way of life. We should
teach our children not to lose that real meaning of Christmas but at the same time teach our children the real meaning of our way of life. Use both of them. That’s the way it is today. That’s all I have to say. Christmas was celebrated with horses. Horses were very important. Everybody looked after the horses: everybody would comb them, groom them, comb their tails. People would even put ribbons on the tails sometimes for ceremonial horses and that’s what they would use. They would fix the sleigh in the summer time to be ready for winter time. Those days are gone now; they will just be in stories.” •
University of Saskatchewan’s Indigenous Students Council page 9
Buffy Sainte-Marie visits FNUniv Saskatoon campus page 10
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Editorial by: Armand LaPlante
“Broken Arrow” is a military code phrase indicating that a ground unit is facing imminent destruction from enemy attack and all available air forces within range are to provide air support immediately (Wiktionary definition). This term means that one is in a serious crisis and is a desperate cry for ‘help.’ When I first heard the term I didn’t think much of it other than it sounded Native and Robbie Robertson sang a song by that name. But then one day my brother took the time to explain what it meant in military terms, as we were discussing a cousin one generation before us who is a veteran of the Vietnam war. His name is Bradley LaPlante from Browning, of the Blackfeet Reservation, Montana, USA. After his experiences in Vietnam he came back and embraced the traditional ways of ceremony. Over time I would think of the term as how it could be used by First Nations people, not in a military sense but in a spiritual, doomsday type of scenario. I’ve heard that the Plains Cree Elders, including those from Moosomin First Nation have advised over the years that when the time of a major challenge to our existence comes, we are to find our way back home to the land. Our traditional lands, including the reserves of today, are our support when we know it is our “broken arrow“. It’s where we can be the most safe because our guardian
Publisher/Editor: Armand LaPlante Sales Representatives: Joshua Charette
spirits can protect us best. That is where I want my family and I to be in December 2012. I am kind of sceptical about all the prophecies about the apocalypse, but as the saying goes, “you can never be too careful.” So I would like to go where our families have the traditional ceremonies, back in the hills on the reserve. December 21, 2012, is a date chosen to be associated with the Ancient Mayan prophecy, and the Mayan calendar. The doomsday believers, including those in Hollywood, would like to have people believe and fear the end of the world. Actually those who study the Mayan prophecy see it more as that humanity is at a major turning point in its existence. Even though I’m not a big believer in the 2012 apocalypse, if something like it were to happen, it may very well be our “broken arrow.” It is probably difficult for some members, like residents of First Nations like Attawapiskat, to feel safe being where the Elders have said we need to be. Living in as miserable conditions as they are, it would be difficult for anyone to separate the physical reality from the spiritual, metaphysical being of which the Elders speak. Surprisingly, some people in the most deplorable states and situations are the most spiritually connected with the Creator. In Canada, sad to say, there are many places like Attawapiskat. Even though we live in the flourishing province of Saskatchewan, there
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are First Nations communities that can readily identify with the deplorable state of living conditions as those in Attawapiskat. Generally, Canadians agree that in a developed country like ours, it is unacceptable to have Indigenous people or any other people subjected to living this way. The complicated question is: how can this be happening and what can be done about it? So far, all people do is play the blame game. When everyone is debating, the real crisis is overshadowed. There was a panel of experts on these matters on national television recently discussing Attawapiskat and First Nations communities like them. First it seemed the moderator expected to get a heated debate but it didn’t happen. The substance of discussion fell short and it wasn’t particularly enlightening. Pam Palmater, a young Mi’kmaq lawyer on the panel, was trying to make a good point which is basically that the answer is right there, it has to do with the land.
From the land much wealth is derived. I still believe that if there were meaningful revenue sharing arrangements, as was thought to be agreed to by First Nations under Aboriginal and Treaty agreements, this story of poverty would exist. All in all it’s sad but I believe if Canadians could come together in an open, sincere, trustful way to resolve these problems, then we could. We could solve a lot of problems if we sat down in the spirit of cooperation and love amongst humankind that this season reminds us of. Let us take a break from our labours and spend some quality time over Christmas and the holidays with the loved ones we are still blessed to have with us. Let us remember those who are less fortunate, and lend a helping hand. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Ekosi Armand LaPlante Editor@indigenoustimes.ca
The editorial policy of this newspaper is determined by an editorial committee established by Indigenous Times. We invite submissions, upcoming events, comments, and opinions. Please submit them with your name, address, telephone number or e-mail. The expressions and/or opinions of authors published in the current issue of Indigenous Times are not necessarily those of Indigenous Times or the editorial committee. No part of this publication in whole or in part may be reproduced, translated into another language, stored in any retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without consent of Indigenous Times. Products, names, logos, design titles, words, or phrases within this publication may be trademarks, servicemarks, or tradenames on their own or otherwise may be registered in certain jurisdictions.
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Chief Darcy Bear Receives Saskatchewan Order of Merit Chief of Whitecap known for strong leadership in Economic Development BY RANDY PRITCHARD
Just 26 kilometers south of Saskatoon, nestled in the sand dunes and bush beside the South Saskatchewan River Valley, lies the Whitecap Dakota First Nation.
This small community has really improved its infrastructure and business development initiatives all in the past two decades, due in large part to the leadership and guidance of their Chief; Chief Darcy Bear. Chief Bear first began serving his people when elected to Whitecap Council in 1991. In 1994 he successfully was elected Chief and is currently in his sixth consecutive term. When one looks back on the accomplishments and progress that Whitecap Dakota First Nation has made, you really have to consider that this was all made possible by the impressive leadership and
commitment that Chief Bear has demonstrated. Consider this, since his tenure as Chief, Mr. Bear has created over 600 jobs on reserve. This has helped create stronger social norms, stronger families and a stronger community. These jobs were all made possible through Chief Bear’s development of the Dakota Dunes Golf Links Championship Golf Course in 2005, and the development of the Dakota Dunes Casino in 2007. And that is not all; currently in development is a Hotel and Convention Centre which will also provide many more employment opportunities for First Nations people in and around the Saskatoon area. Chief Bear is not only recognized all across the Nation as a strong leader for his economic development successes, but also is looked up to for his exemplary governance and administrative skills. For example, his commitment to sound fiscal accountability and responsibility has resulted in the abolishment of a 40% defi-
cit, 15 consecutive unqualified audits, and 12 surplus budgets. Chief Bear also is very committed to improving his community and has worked with Council to provide over 600 housing units, paved roads, a new elementary school, high-speed internet access, a new Health Centre and the construction of modern water and sewer infrastructure. He has worked hard in this regard and thus has earned the respect and esteem of the people he serves as well as many other leaders and organizations around the globe. In recognition of his many successes and accomplishments, Chief Bear was recently honored with the Province’s highest distinction; the Saskatchewan Order of Merit. Chief Bear gives much credit to his Council and his partners in these developments. Indigenous Times would like to congratulate Chief Bear and the Whitecap Dakota First Nation.
Chief Darcy Bear of Whitecap Dakota First Nation Submitted photo
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Business Plan Competition helps aspiring entrepreneurs Saskatoon Tribal Council hosts Mino-Bimaadiziwin BY TIMOTHY LEWIS Mino-Bimaadiziwin is a term used by the Saulteaux nation. It means the traditional concept of “the good life,” but may also translate to “touching the sky.” The Saskatoon Tribal Council (STC) hosted their first annual business plan competition to assist aspiring entrepreneurs in making their dreams a reality. The STC is the first Tribal Council to create this kind of competition. STC recognizes the financial and monetary issues young Aboriginal entrepreneurs face in making their business ideas come to fruition: lack of credit or poor credit history, lack of assets or collateral, and the unavailability of 10% cash equity required for a loan. Unfortunately, this cycle continues in the family circle, with many Aboriginal parents facing these same challenges. STC hopes to break the cycle, by giving Aboriginal youth the chance to shine. Aboriginal youth are 2-anda-half times more likely to engage
in entrepreneurship than their similar-age non-Aboriginal peers, according to Ted Rogers School of Management at Ryerson University. Not surprising, considering that Aboriginal people have always traded goods amongst themselves and others as a way of life. Being an entrepreneur is an inherited trait that runs deep in Aboriginal history. This year’s winners are as follows: 1st PLACE and $5000 – Tipi Tones Tipi Tones is a company that creates original ring tones that promote Aboriginal culture, language and music. Their mission is to create original quality ring tones that promote Aboriginal culture using humour, education and music. Kree Thomas, President and CEO, has been working hard to ensure the success of Tipi Tones.
Tipi Tones Co. (left) took first place at the Mino-Bimaadiziwin business plan competition held by the Saskatoon Tribal Council.
Submitted photo
formal restaurant will fill the lack of North American Indigenous cuisine here in the city of Saskatoon. Not only will the company showcase the cuisine of the local First Nations groups, but it would also highlight delicious foods and dishes from other tribes and Aboriginal cultures from all over North America.
3rd PLACE and $3000 Rock Haven Rock Haven is a support 2nd PLACE and $4000 – center which will provide programs The Longhouse that would include basic life skills, The Longhouse will be a work readiness, computer skills, five-star gourmet restaurant located holistic healing, and improving in the heart of downtown Saska- self-esteem for youth aged 18-25 toon. This relaxing, yet high-class
years old. The center’s purpose is to provide employment skills; thus allowing youth to contribute to the labour force. 4th PLACE and $1500 - IGC Consulting and Business Services IGC Consulting and Business Services is a newly formed business, founded by Rob Woods. The First Nations owned company seeks to attain fair market-share in the professional consulting and service sector. Rob sees the opportunity to provide business and consulting services in the resource based sectors with the goal to bridge First Nations with growing provincial economies. •
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Indian Teacher Education Program expands to the Battlefords University of Saskatchewan and Battlefords Agency Tribal Chiefs partner up to bring more opportunities BY LILLIAN BLACKSTAR
BATC is planning for a brighter future for the Battlefords with more educational programs for Aboriginal people. At the grand opening of the ITEP
(Indian Teacher Education Program) the BATC partnered program with University of Saskatchewan held at the Don Ross Centre on Wednesday October 26, 2011, it was announced that the next step is to develop further partnerships that will bring in more programs. Potential programs mentioned by Orest Merowsky of the University of Saskatchewan were agriculture, nursing, commerce and kinesiology. The BATC - ITEP Program in the Battlefords is in it’s first year of offering this program in the Battlefords. Classes are held at the Don Ross Centre with up to 50 students enrolled this year. “With 50 students enrolled there is utiilization of cross cultural education with elders as resource people, also provides students opportunity to maintain close contact with family …,” said BATC representative Sarah Gopher. Gopher says there are further partnerships being planned and she expressed her gratitude on behalf of the tribal council to their partners also welcoming them to the Battlefords. Another recent BATC partnership now in it’s 2nd year of operation is
with the North West Regional College here in the Battlefords. An employment and training initiative the Active Measures Program offers workplace Essential Skills programming. Director of this program Melanie Kahpeaysewat is pleased to be a part of the development of educational and training leading to employment of Aboriginal people in the Battlefords. “I’m really honored to be part of this initiative BATC has developed for First Nations. It’s hard on family members when student has to go away which is sometimes detrimental to them in their success to completing their programs/ education.” Kahpeaysewat said. She says that One of the greatest benefits will be that First Nations schools will be benefiting from the graduates from the program. As well as providing a career in education for all graduates of the ITEP program. City Alderman Ray Fox also spoke to those gathered for the grand opening, expressing his gratitude for the BATC offering programs for benefit and development in the Battlefords. Also in attendance was newly elected FSIN Fourth Vice Chief Simon Bird who spoke in both Cree and English to those gathered for the grand opening. “I thank everyone elders, Don, …I’m very proud to be here…every day and every meeting we’re faced with obstacles our students face like high rent, high cost of living, students you have an advantage here in North Battleford, of having your family members beside you while going to school right next door,”
Melanie Kahpeaysewat, BATC
Sarah Gopher, BATC Bird expressed. Bird is also a teacher trained in the ITEP program. He thanked BATC for the invite to the grand opening. ITEP Student Council Representative Quinton Swiftwolfe addressed those gathered, thanking everyone and presenting gifts to Ray Fox and Simon Bird on behalf of the Student Council. A traditional feast wrapped up the the day’s event. •
FSIN Vice Chief Simon Bird
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Encanto Potash Corp. Announces First Nations and Métis Fund/Muskowekwan Investment in Encanto Submitted by the Encanto Potash Corp. for release Encanto Potash Corp. (“Encanto” or the “Company”) (TSXV:EPO) (OTCQX:ENCTF) is pleased to announce that the Muskowekwan First Nation (“MFN”) through its development corporation Muskowekwan Resources Limited (“MRL”) will be making a $3,000,000 Cdn equity investment into the Company. The First Nations and Métis Fund (“FNMF” see www.fnmf.ca) has
approved and will be providing the financing to MRL, subject to the completion of the requisite legal documentation. The equity investment will be effected by a non-brokered private placement of up to 13,043,479 Units (the “Units”) at $0.23 per Unit to raise gross proceeds of $3,000,000. Each Unit will consist of one common share and onehalf of one common share purchase
Encanto President and CEO Jim Walchuk (left) and Chief Reginald Bellerose Muskowekwan. Submitted photo
warrant. Each whole warrant will entitle the holder to acquire one common share of the Company at an exercise price of $0.35 per common share for a period of three years from the date of closing. The private placement will be subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval and all securities issued in connection with the private placement will be subject to a four month hold period. The FNMF is the first Aboriginal fund in Canada to make investments in Saskatchewan-based First Nations and Métis businesses. The mandate of the FNMF is to strengthen Aboriginal participation in Saskatchewan’s diverse economy and to help create economic development opportunities and jobs for First Nations and Métis people. The fund is administered and operated by First Nations and Métis Fund Inc., a corporation wholly owned by Crown Investments Corporation (CIC), a financial holding company for Saskatchewan’s commercial Crown corporations. Westcap Mgt. Ltd. (“WML”) provides professional fund management ser-
vices and makes recommendations to FNMF on potential transactions. MFN Chief Reginald Bellerose explains: “We approached the Company’s management with the idea of MFN, through MRL making a direct investment into Encanto. As a First Nation, we’re not only looking forward to the employment, royalties and education opportunities that the joint venture with Encanto offers our people, but feel that at this stage in Encanto’s development, the direct investment offers the opportunity to strengthen the strategic partnership between MRL and Encanto as well as the opportunity for appreciation as Encanto moves toward building a solution mine on our lands.” Encanto President and CEO Jim Walchuck comments: “We’re extremely pleased to welcome the MFN, through MRL, with a direct investment in the Company. I believe that this strategic investment by the MFN sends a strong reaffirmation of our joint commitment to see this great project through to production.” •
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Indigenous Students’ Council launches Role Model Initiative U of S students use experience to help Aboriginal High School Students BY RYAN MOCCASIN The Indigenous Students’ Council is a student group at the University of Saskatchewan. Our purpose is to unify and engage Aboriginal students on campus through cultural, academic, and leisure activities. We are a council of eight students and we work together to plan and implement programs that fulfill our purpose. Currently there are over 1,700 Aboriginal students at the University of Saskatchewan and each student desires to obtain a post-secondary degree. Along the way there will be obstacles and fleeting moments of doubt, but the reach for higher education is a journey that students are willing to fight for. This journey begins before the students set foot on campus. It begins during high school when the students begin to think of their career goals. Some students wish to become doctors and lawyers while other students are still contemplating what post-secondary education can do for them. It is at these moments that our council would like to focus on. For the past year we have worked on creating a Role Model program designed to connect University Aboriginal students with high school Aboriginal students. The goal of this program is to raise awareness about post-secondary opportunities available to young students. The first part involves recognizing Aboriginal student
achievement; we do this by highlighting twelve Aboriginal students in a calendar that will be sent to high schools around the province. Each students is allotted room to write about themselves, their achievements, and where their education will take them. This is a great project that involves an enormous amount of collaboration and University of Saskatchewan Indigenous Students’ Council 2011 organizing. Our council has worked diligently to en- designed to assist first year students university doors with a degree in sure that the calendar is completed in adjusting to their studies and their hand. Our students and our chiland we are happy to report a suc- university life. This will be done by virtue of mentorship among dren are our greatest resource in cessful project. The second part of the pro- the first-year and upper-year stu- tackling the issues of today to ensure gram is an initiative to connect dents. Sometimes life in the city a successful tomorrow. If you have with high school students directly can be overwhelming so it is impor- any questions or feedback about but this is still in its development tant to have support when trouble this program feel free to email us at phase. Currently we are planning arises. This is a tripartite program i.s.c@usask.ca • to visit a high school in the coming with the aim to ensure that every year and discuss with Aboriginal Aboriginal student walks out of the students the opportunities available to them at University. Our aim is to paint a clear picture for high school students about what the university experience is like. This will not only be a learning process for them but also it is leadership development for university students who wish to participate in these workshops. The third and final phase is
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Buffy Sainte-Marie visits First Nations University in Saskatoon Iconic Aboriginal musician on tour BY AUDREY ARMSTRONG The students and staff of First Nations University Saskatoon Campus welcomed Buffy SainteMarie with wide open arms on December 9, 2011. Buffy graced the students and staff with her presence and sat down to have tea and dainties with them. She brought along her band, road manager and FSIN 2nd Vice Chief Simon Bird. The students presented Buffy with a gift of intricately hand carved Miles Anderson earrings made from deer antler in the form of an eagle head. The students were in complete awe of her. Margaret Bear, FNUC Saskatoon Campus Student Council President, says ‘It is a great honor and priviledge to have met Buffy Sainte-Marie because she is an Aboriginal role model and she has done so much with her life that it gives us inspiration to go on and to continue our dreams and aspirations.’ Audrey Armstrong, Vice President of the Student Council says, ‘None of this would have been possible without the thoughtfulness of our staff and faculty. They are amazing, they brought in Buffy for us as a
L-R: FSIN Vice Chief Simon Bird, Jesse Green (guitars/vocals), Audrey Armstrong, Kerri Crowe, Buffy SainteMarie, Margaret Bear, Crimson Dent, Jonah Awowo, Mike Bruyere (drums/vocals), Leroy Constant (bass).
Christmas gift to the students. They brought her in to inspire us and to encourage us to keep on going and pursuing our dreams. I have been
a fan of Buffy Sainte-Marie since I was a young girl, and we thank her, her band, FSIN and our staff and Faculty for the great honor in be-
ing able to meet her. We are deeply grateful.’ This day will go down in history for The First Nations University Saskatoon Campus.
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U of S enters into partnership with Yukon College Submitted by Colleen Cameron of the ICNGD SASKATOON – The University of Saskatchewan and Yukon College entered into a partnership today that will enable the sharing of programs, research and other resources for the benefit of both institutions. University of Saskatchewan President Pe-
ter MacKinnon and Yukon College President Karen Barnes formalized the agreement by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the U of S this afternoon. Through this collaboration, the two institutions are seeking to
increase access to post-secondary education; increase the post-secondary education rates; increase the relevance of post-secondary; and share resources and work co-operatively to the maximum advantage of students in both regions. The MOU
University of Saskatchewan president, Peter MacKinnon, and Yukon College president, Karen Barnes, sign the MOU at the U of S on Dec. 5, 2011. Photo provided by the U of S.
also confirms the priority both institutions place on responding to the needs of Aboriginal partners. “Innovative partnerships like this mean expanded options for students, researchers, and communities,” said MacKinnon. “A student in the Yukon may now have access to a University of Saskatchewan program they wouldn’t have otherwise – and of course the reverse is true as well. This partnership may also serve as a model for other regions and jurisdictions.” The partnership allows for collaboration between any department at either institution. The U of S’ International Centre for Northern Governance and Development (ICNGD), which was instrumental in brokering the MOU, is already looking forward to joint programming options and plans to visit the College in January. “We couldn’t be happier to see this deal happen,” said ICNGD’s director, Greg Poelzer. “Partnerships like this are the key to maximizing resources and meeting demands. We’ll be able to offer new programming as a result and Saskatchewan students—Northern students in particular—will benefit from expanded opportunities.” •
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Wishing you peace, happiness and prosperity. SASKATCHEWAN INDIAN GAMING AUTHORITY Play Responsibly SIGA_2011_xmasAd_indiginousTimes.indd 1
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Points Athabasca Receives 2011 ABEX Award Points Athabasca Communications At the 2011 Chamber of Commerce ABEX Awards Gala, held this past weekend at TCU Place in Saskatoon, Points Athabasca Contracting LP was awarded the ABEX Aboriginal Business Partnership Award. This award is presented to a business (or individual) that has demonstrated leadership and commitment to the growth of
Aboriginal business in Saskatchewan. “We are very pleased to be part of an exciting economy and province,” states Brad Darbyshire, Manager of Points Athabasca. “Saskatchewan is a national powerhouse with a growing and vibrant business community that fully understands the importance of engaging its Aboriginal
community. It is great to see such positive progress and we are looking forward to continued success in our business and the provincial growth. Saskatchewan is truly a great place to be!” Points Athabasca expresses thanks to: 1. Clients – Cameco, Crown Corporations, Areva, Golden Band Resources 2. Shareholders – Graham
Group Ltd. and Athabasca Basin Development Limited Partnership 3. Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce for putting on the ABEX awards 4. The communities we work for and the members of those communities. Points Athabasca Contracting LP is proudly Aboriginal owned and operated. They provide gen-
eral contracting in the areas of industrial, commercial, skilled workforce supply, concrete products and sales, and road building and maintenance. The company is a partnership, with 75% ownership belonging to Athabasca Basin Development Limited Partnership (ABDLP) and 25% ownership belonging to Graham Group Ltd. •
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Left to right: Glen Strong, ABDLP Board Member, John Scarfe, Operations Manager, PACLP, Don Deranger, Athabasca Vice President of Prince Albert Grand Council, Geoff Gay, CEO, ABDLP, Joan Strong, Brad Darbyshire, Manager, PACLP, Wade Johnson, Operations manager - Civil work. Submitted photo
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SIEF Conference Brings First Nations Community Together Submitted by the Saskatchewan Indian Equity Foundation Inc.
SASKATOON, SK - The Saskatchewan Indian Equity Foundation Inc. (SIEF) held their Annual General Meeting and first annual “Growing Together, Community…” conference at the Saskatoon Inn Hotel and Conference Centre on November 23 and 24, 2011. The event was held in conjunction with the 25th Anniversary of SIEF. The organizers were very pleased with the response from the First Nation
community as delegate registrations totaled over 125 along with 25 trade show exhibitors and 30 Chiefs in attendance. The conference featured a keynote address by Chief Clarence Louie from the Osooyoos Indian Band in British Columbia. The two days featured breakout sessions that focused on the Entrepreneurial component of Economic Development and the sustainability of good business practices. A highlight of the
Chief Wallace Fox (left) and members of Onion Lake First Nation accepting the SIEF Entrepreneur Award at the “Growing Together, Community…” conference.
• Submitted photo.
conference was the presentation of the Entrepreneurial Spirit Award to Onion Lake First Nation for their active role in promoting and developing entrepreneurs. Other highlights
included the awarding of prizes to the winning entries in the Youth Business Plan competition sponsored by the Saskatoon Tribal Council. The Gala evening celebrating the 25th An-
niversary of SIEF featured First Nation recording artist Shane Yellowbird. SIEF looks forward to welcoming everyone to the event next year, scheduled for November 2012. •
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Sacred Peyote lands under threat by Floyd Favel - Plains Cree Kelly Daniels is the President of the Native American Church of Canada and whose music has been nominated and won numerous awards, most recently for Best Album in the Peyote Music category at the Aboriginal Peoples Choice Music Awards in Winnipeg, Manitoba in November. Kelly’s cd’s are released to help bring healing and broader awareness to our People about important issues and causes, “ We had a ceremony with our elders before we made CD’s, to ask for permission to record and the elders told us it’s good, but it has to be for the benefit of our People” Just days prior to winning the award for Best Album, Kelly attended the ‘Intercontinental Prayer for the Preservation and Sustainability of the Sacred Peyote Medicine’ conference recently held in Chalmita, Mexico from October 28 to November 1, 2011. Kelly, along with other Native American Church (NAC) leaders from the United States such as NACNA president Earl Arkinson and vice president Sandor Iron Rope, where there at
the invitation of the Huichol Nation of Mexico, Huichol call themselves Wixarrika, reside in the northern region of Mexico, the heart of the sacred Peyote lands. Kelly’s trip was sponsored by the Sturgeon Lake First Nation. The purpose of the conference was to bring awareness to the world of the threat that the sacred Peyote lands are under from mining and agricultural developments. Peyote is a sacrament that is central to the beliefs and tenets of many Indigenous Nations in Mexico as well as to members of NAC in the United States and Canada. The Wixarrika are one of the poorest and most traditional of the Indigenous People of Mexico. Their poverty is in contrast to the wealth of their national government and multi-national corporations whom they are battling with in an attempt to save their lands. The Wixarrika, unlike Indigenous Nations in the United States and Canada, inherent title to the land is not recognized nor have any Treaties been made between their Nation and the Mexican
Kelly Daniels, President of the Native American Church of Canada
Submitted photo
Government. This lack of respect for their inherent Indigenous title to the land, lack of Treaties, and their poverty, makes the land and its resources easily exploitable by their own government. The Wixarrika are launching a public relations and media campaign to bring international awareness of the threat to their sacred Peyote lands. This conference was an aspect of this campaign and an invitation had been extended to the Indigenous People of the United States and Canada, members of the Native American Church to unite in prayer and work towards finding a solution to the ongoing threat to the
lands, which concerned other Indigenous Nations who share in the Peyote Way of Life. Kelly Daniels feels this is important, but also that other Indigenous environment and political leaders, artists need to be involved as, “This is not only an issue of concern to Peyote People but to all Indigenous People who are trying to preserve and save their lands and their People.” One of the suggestions made has been that their land be designated a World Heritage Site or at best, be turned into a National Park. What is at stake here is the future of the land and the future of many... •continued on page 24
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Aboriginal Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan: Gerald Ratt Photography; Gerald Shows Passion for the Industry Me Fashion” a charity fashion show for the Food Bank that will be held An Indigenous Times initia- on March 23rd, 2012 in Saskatoon. tive is to highlight an Aboriginal en- This event will create awareness on trepreneur as a means to inspire and the issue of poverty and help locals empower other Aboriginal youth on display their talents from fashion, the verge of a business venture. In dance, music, and art. “faShion sharing stories of success and ac- EyE” modeling towards self-conficomplishment, we hope we can in- dence workshop will help young people repair their confidence through spire the same in others. Gerald Ratt recently start- modeling workshops on self-confied his own photography company dence, health, runway, public speakcalled Gerald Ratt Photography. ing, and being in front of a camera. Gerald is from the Lac La Ronge First Nation. He has a 4 year de- IT News: What gave you the configree in Native Studies from the Uni- dence to start your photography comversity of Saskatchewan and now pany? works for the John Howard Society of Saskatoon. Gerald has placed 1st G.Ratt: I began to take myself more in the men’s category at the 11th an- seriously after modeling for Masala nual Masala Model Search, made it Model and Talent. I had to start with to the top 15 for DISCOVERED in- myself and that was to work on my ternational model search with EDGE own self confidence. Modeling has agency, and also attended the 2011 helped me with this. I now want to Canadian Model and talent Con- help make people feel good about vention in Toronto. The modeling themselves through photos. I enjoy industry has influenced Gerald to directing people in shoots, as some pick up his camera and push hard for are camera shy. I love getting the something creative. Gerald had his best angles and images that display first photo exhibition titled “Fash- their beauty. I want my clients to see ion Forward” in September 2011 at their photo and say “wow I didn’t City Perk in Saskatoon and is now know I could do this” and I want to working on his new projects, “Feed be a part of that.
BY TIMOTHY LEWIS
IT News: What were your major obstacles on your path to success?
G.Ratt: The struggle with myself was my only obstacle. When you struggle at a young age it affects you and you doubt yourself, I have doubted myself up until now. I always would hear myself saying I’m not great at photography or I can’t do it because I don’t know anything about taking photos. The voices would stop me from pushing myself to purchase a better quality camera or to even put myself out there and showcase what I can do. I had a good support group who would always tell me that I am improving. I am a self-taught photographer and my images speak for themselves. IT News: What is your favorite type of photographs to take and why? G.Ratt: Fashion photography has always been a favorite of mine. I enjoy working with hair/makeup artists, stylists, and designers and bringing their craft to life with the help of the model. I enjoy capturing the concepts that I have in my head through a camera. I have always wanted to have my own fashion magazine or to
shoot for one. I enjoy out of the box ideas and bizarre concepts and fashion photography allows me to get creative. Anyone can be a photographer but I think to be a great photographer you have to be a visionary artist. Fashion Photography is art. This is why I love it. IT News: What advice do you have for other Aboriginal youth who want to start a business? G.Ratt: Always surround yourself with a great support group. My advice for young Aboriginal people would be to believe in yourself. If you enjoy something, then push for it to happen. Everything doesn’t come easy and if you have a passion for something then be ready for failure and barriers but this shouldn’t stop you, don’t give up on yourself. If you have an idea, then use your creativity and go for it. Your idea will catch people, but it’s you that has to believe in yourself. Website: www.GeraldRattPhotography.com Facebook: Gerald Ratt Photography Phone: 306-717-5944 Email: images@geraldrattphotography.com
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SASKATCHEWAN FIRST NATIONS NATURAL RESOURCES
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December 2011 Indigenous Times 22 Partnership agreement to strengthen healthcare in Thunderchild
Submitted by the Prairie North Health Region & Thunderchild First Nation A liaison worker will be able to provide better support to Thunderchild First Nation members, thanks to a new partnership between Prairie North Health Region and Thunderchild First Nation. The liaison will now have an enhanced role and increased responsibilities, as well as a clearer and more consistent scope of practice, allowing him or her to be a more effective part of the care team. “The liaison will be able to help us further the discharge planning protocols between Thunderchild and the health region,” says Linda Okanee, director of health for Thunderchild First Nation. “We look forward to working more closely with our region partners.”
Communication experts who serve as a point of contact to share information between individuals and groups, liaison workers bridge gaps between cultures and create a common understanding that leads to seamless quality health care for First Nation clients and their families and caregivers. Sharing information often requires clarification and translation of meanings. “Strengthening the liaison worker program is one of the keys to improving the patient experience of First Nations people in our health region,” says Glennys Uzelman, vicepresident of Primary Health Services for Prairie North Health Region. “The idea stemmed from the provincial Patient First Review’s recommendation
Arnold Wapass, Thunderchild First Nation Councillor, at the signing event
that the health region should work with First Nations and Métis elders, as well as patient and family advisors, to develop a culturally safe and competent health system that better serves First Nation and Métis citizens.” The partnership agreement,
signed on November 18, is based on equal cost sharing and formal shared supervision and collaboration, with final administrative accountability remaining with the First Nation. The Thunderchild First Nation liaison worker will work out of offices in Turtleford and Thunderchild. •
O Great Creator, MāmawiOhtāwīmāw, Heaven and Earth Are the works of Your hands, You made the moon and stars; The earth and the sea and every Living creature came into being by Your Word. May this tree bring cheer to our home Through Cīsas Christ, your good and holy Son Who brought Life and Beauty and Hope to the World By His Birth. Miyo-manitōwikīsikanisik! • Reader submission
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Indigenous Times 24 Native American Church.. cont’d from page 18
December 2011
the recent Manitowahbee Festival in Winnipeg on November 4, and companies who have a lot to gain in performed live broadcast on APTN, ... Indigenous Nations of the region. ernment has succeeded in bringing Unity, as Indigenous People, but many Indigenous leaders into this development of the sacred Peyote he sang in honor and tribute to the also as a nation is what the Wixarri- credo and many Indigenous lead- lands is Majestic Mining Corpora- recently deceased actor and Cree ka are seeking, but as in Canada and ers and organizations are actively tion, a Canadian owned company. leader Gordon Tootoosis. In 2009 the United States, the government is working with various corporate Mining companies in the past have Kelly’s group Meewasin Oma won buying off or attempting to buy out interests in the destruction of their contaminated the land and its sur- the award for Best Album and they influential Indigenous political and own traditional lands. The tar sands rounding and the Wixarrika fear for have also been nominated in the economic leaders who would open in Alberta have many Indigenous their Sacred Peyote. Majestic is one past for a Native American Music the doors into wholesale resource beneficiaries, uranium mining and of the about 30 other companies Award in 2007 and 2008. Long ago, the mythical culdevelopment on these sacred lands. tar sands development in northern who are actively seeking mining concessions and permits in this retural being, Wasakaychak created In Canada, resource extrac- Saskatchewan is another, and the this world, this island, Ministik as its tion and economic development is construction of hydro electric dams gion. Many Indigenous People in called in the Cree language. When the mantra of the Harper Govern- in northern Quebec is another tragic North America utilize Peyote as a he had finished creating this island, ment, in other words, ‘the rape of example. Mother Earth’. The Canadian gov- One of the major mining holy sacrament. Mining develop- he asked the wolf to run around the ment is threatening a way of life and world to see how big this land was. worship, an Indigenous Religion is The wolf was old when he finally rewhat the Wixarrika believe and this turned and he reported back to Wamessage is what they want to com- sakaychak how big this island was. municate to the world. Wasakaychak was satisfied that the Kelly is from the Sturgeon island was big enough for the PeoLake First Nation but resides on ple who would reside therein. This the Red Pheasant First Nation, his island, Turtle Island as some call it, mother’s home community. His an island which rests on the Turtle’s family has followed the Peyote Way back is the land the Indigenous Peofor many generations and he is pas- ple were placed upon. Many sacred sionate in bringing awareness of the medicines were placed here to help fate of the Peyote lands to people the People, sacred medicines such of Canada and to the world. “Once as Peyote. The threat to the survival again our People’s way of life is of the Peyote in the sacred Peyote under attack,” is what he believes. lands in Mexico affects all of us as Kelly recently won for Best Album Indigenous People of this island. • in the Peyote Music category at Kelly Daniels has won an APCMA award for Peyote music
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Indian Status and MĂŠtis Research Services for Aboriginal Youth Submitted by BCH Research Services BCH Research Services provides family history research services for individuals wishing to have their Treaty and Metis ancestry documented through government and church records. The recent passage of Bill C3 has also created more opportunities for Treaty ancestry individuals to submit family history documentation as part of their applications under the Indian Act. Blanche Cowley-Head (B.A., B.Ed., J.D., LL.M.) brings her legal education background and decades of Aboriginal genealogy experience too her research services. Clients receive the findings in an Aboriginal Ancestry Research Report, including copies of all relevant government and church records. In seeking to include those vulnerable groups who would not normally be able to access this type of specialized research services, Blanche is seeking funding partners to subsidize those youth from vulnerable groups
who would not normally be able to afford full research rates. Vulnerable aboriginal youth may include former and current foster care individuals, current adoptees, and high school and post-secondary students who believe they may have Indian or Metis ancestry. Aboriginal youth in particular need every support to prepare for education training, lifelong learning and workforce participation. Aboriginal youth benefit from connecting with their ancestral identity, accessing their ancestral entitlements to post-secondary educational funding support and enjoying all other benefits to which they are entitled as status Indians and Metis people. BCH Research Services is based out of Saskatoon, SK and responds to client Treaty and Metis research requests from across western Canada. For more information visit the website at http://bchresearch. ca/Welcome.html Start your family history research today! Call or email Blanche Cowley-Head for research rates, see right:
Blanche Cowley-Head (B.A., B.Ed., J.D., LL.M.)
Ph: 306-290-6024 Email: blanche@bchresearch.ca http://bchresearch.ca/Welcome.html
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2011 “Spirit of our Nations” FSIN-SIGA-BHP Billiton Pow Wow
Pow Wow Grand Entry lead by Flag and Eagle Staff bearers Dorothy Myo, President of SICC and Chair of the “Spirit of our Nations” committee
Some of the beautiful women and royalty of the pow-wow
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