Please Recycle Me
Indigenous Times
Free! Take one
Issue 6 • Volume 18
December 2013/January 2014
CHRISTMAS IN THE OLD LOG HOUSE
Church where the family attended midnight mass, located on south end of Fishing Lake First Nation. Written by Sharon Thomas as told by Caroline Daigneault.
A few family members in front of the log house: Caroline’s parents Jack and Stella Nanaquawetung, her younger brother Len Nanaquawetung, and the baby is niece Sherry Nanaquawetung.
“When I think of Christmas, I think of how festive it is. I think of joy and happiness, family, my children and my grandchildren. The story I want to share was from my childhood of about 5 years old. Christmas was one of the times of year that was very special for me. I grew up in a white washed log house and I had a lot of fine memories in that house as a child. We didn’t have electricity; a wood stove always heated our home. There was always a sense of security because my mom and dad were there; they were our protectors, our mentors and loving parents.
Right before Christmas, my dad would leave home for about three weeks because he was a hunter. He’d come home shortly before Christmas and he would have tons of moose meat for the winter. That meat was also for the meal on the festive day. At that time, we didn’t have turkeys. I can remember, when my Mom would go to town and buy stuff for Christmas baking that she was going to use for the meal. We were a large family so we didn’t have gifts or Christmas trees or anything like that. But I think the sharing of food made it possible for us to have a nice meal. Mom was always canning. In the summer she always picked blueberries, raspberries, Saskatoon berries and stuff like that that she’d put away for special days like Christmas and that’s what we’d have for the meal and of course the moose meat that was always cooked in a lot of different ways. I also remember the music. We always had a battery-operated transistor radio that was
on and would play a lot of Christmas music. I remember Brenda Lee singing about “Rocking Around The Christmas Tree,” Burl Ives singing about having a “Holly Jolly Christmas” and all the other songs that made the season more festive. As a child, I had a very strong belief in Santa Claus, I truly believed in him. On Christmas Eve, I would sit at the window and watch, I even believed in Jack Frost. I used to visualize being Jack Frost doing his painting and I would scratch the window so I could look outside. I could sit there forever waiting for Santa Claus to ride across the sky. It was a good feeling. And then there was Christmas Eve. Mom would be cooking and the smells of cinnamon and pies and cakes would just fill the house. She was brought up in residential school so she had really good cooking skills. She’d prepare all this food for the next day.
SUNCHILD LAW
REZ POETRY
Page 4/8
Page 6
WASAKAYCHAK CHRISTMAS STORY
I was fortunate enough to speak with a member of the Fishing Lake First Nation, Caroline Daigneault. This is her Christmas story that she would like to share with all of you:
• continued on page 12.
Page 11
2
Indigenous Times
December 2013/January 2014
December 2013/January 2014
Editorial
by: Armand LaPlante
When I was 10 years old I asked an adult who the most famous person in the world was. In my young mind I thought he was going to say Elvis or some Hollywood actor, but the adult replied “Nelson Mandela.” I said “who!?” At that time I made a bit of an effort to educate myself on Mandela and although I didn’t understand much of the political criteria and terms, I knew he had done great things to be considered
Indigenous Times
with such a high regard in our world. Now that I’m older and understand better; I can say the world will miss Nelson Mandela and what he represented. I pray that his actions, relentlessness and heroism inspire future leaders to work toward the betterment and have the positive impact Nelson Mandela had on our world. What an interesting year for Saskatchewan, what comes to mind when I think of our ongoing treaty relationship is that the lines are drawn and then redrawn. Just when you think this is the way it is, you have people step out and point out that First Nations people need to be considered if there is to be meaningful ongoing prosperity for our province and elsewhere in our country. Individuals like Jim Prentice, John Manley, Bob Rae, and commentators like Murray Mandryk, all have more-or-less
3
stated that First Nations have to be partners in the resource development in Canada. I believe the general public, to some degree, is willing to accommodate the First Nations, true to what was envisioned by our forefathers. Stress and working too hard over the holiday season can dim that holiday spirit that brings joy to our hearts. Many people get a set amount of holidays at Christmas time with no work responsibilities. But many entrepreneurs, business owners, and other workaholics know that sometimes the work doesn’t stop at 5pm; it doesn’t stop on Friday; and sometimes, it doesn’t stop for Christmas. It should therefore be the entrepreneur’s goal to make sure that he or she has some days with no responsibilities and to only focus on family, peace, and finding that true holiday spirit. At Christmas season people say where they plan to be for Christmas day, a lot say “back
home”. In my family’s case, home would be Gordon’s, Moosomin FN, English River, Star Blanket, Sweetgrass and others. Although we won’t be there on Christmas, we will meet in the hall because our family is too big to gather in a house. For Christmas then, home, invariably, is the family. You are home when you are with your family. I, on behalf of my family and Indigenous Times, wish everyone a Merry Christmas and no matter where you are, I hope you will be happy. Ekosi, Armand LaPlante editor@indigenoustimes.ca ADVERTISE WITH INDIGENOUS TIMES First Nations people serving the Aboriginal community of Saskatchewan since 1993. Phone: 306-955-0109 Email: sales@indigenoustimes.ca
CREE FILM PROJECT AWARDED $400,000 IN FUNDING The Canadian Media Fund recently announced $1.3 million in funding to three Aboriginal film and television projects. One of the projects funded was for ‘Sweet Cherry Wine’ written by Cree writer Floyd Favel of Poundmaker, and produced by Kunuk Cohn Productions of Montreal. Kunuk Cohn’s film Atanarajuat/Fast Runner won for best film at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival in 2003. Mr. Favel’s own company Miyawata Films is a co-producer of this film. ‘Sweet Cherry Wine’ is a story of love, heartbreak and racist violence set in the 1940s and 50s and is primarily shot in the Cree language. The project will hire local Saskatchewan based actors giving them a major career opportunity as this film, once released, will have national and global distribution and be seen worldwide by audiences. “This is a great opportunity Publisher/Editor: Armand LaPlante editor@indigenoustimes.ca Associate Editor: Jordan LaPlante jordan@indigenoustimes.ca Advertising Sales: Armand LaPlante sales@indigenoustimes.ca phone: 306-955-0109
for First Nations, as it will provide employment and bring up to $1 million in contracts, salaries, and direct economic spin offs to First Nations and surrounding communities. The film will also bring positive publicity to First Nations and show case our people, landscape and our talent to the country and to the world” says co-producer Mr. Favel. Mr. Favel has a long history in the arts. He studied theatre in Denmark and Italy and his work has been shown at the National Museum of the American Indian, Denver Art Museum, Santa Fe Institute of American Indian Arts, the National Arts Centre, Ondinnok Theatre, The Canada Dance Festival, New Dance Horizons, the Globe Theatre, Citadel Theatre, and he has taught or given seminars at The National Theatre School of Canada, University of Victoria-Australia, Moscow School of Dramatic Arts, UBC-
Kelowna, and is currently writing a drama for Concordia University in Montreal. The film will hire actors, extras, caterers, horse wranglers, horses, carpenters, costume coordinators, and will be shot on location in various First Nations in the
province, as well as a few scenes to be shot in a local small town. Miyawata Films will be looking for actors in the coming few months, and is currently discussing partnerships with some First Nations who would like to have the film shot in their community. •
Floyd P. Favel - Submitted photo
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.
4
Indigenous Times
December 2013/January 2014
Sunchild Law’s Warm Donation to the Homeless Shelter
North Battleford, SK - Sunchild Law, an Indigenous law firm out of Poundmaker First Nation, looks for ways to give back to the community. On December 10th, Sunchild Law donated 20 care packages to the North Battleford Indian and Métis Friendship Centre homeless shelter. The purpose of the project is to raise awareness about the homeless shelter in the Battlefords and to raise awareness about homelessness and poverty in the community. Sunchild Law works with
L-R: Tammy Awasis, Shelter Support Worker; Eleanore Sunchild, owner Sunchild Law; Marcus Tobaccojuice, shelter client; Raj Hathiramani, Sunchild Law; Sarah Koi, Sunchild Law; Sylvia Gopher, Sunchild Law; Victoria Bush-Sunchild, Sunchild Law. - Submitted photo.
former students of residential schools, and poverty and homelessness is one effect of the residential school era. “This not just an Aboriginal issue, but is a larger
community issue. Poverty and homelessness is not going to be addressed unless people start examining the root causes,” states Eleanore Sunchild, owner of Sunchild Law.
The law firm plans to prepare more care packages which include necessities such as winter garments and toiletries. • • More on Sunchild Law on page 8
December 2013/January 2014
Indigenous Times
5
First Nations Women Helping Families Deal With Loss BY SHARON THOMAS Losing a loved one is a very emotional and difficult time for families and individuals; the burden of finances and planning only adds to the stress. With the help of two First Nations women, a North Battleford funeral home has begun to develop an educational outreach program to help people through the grieving process as well as pre-planning for end of life choices, funeral arrangements and ceremonies. The Sallows and McDonaldWilson and Zehner Funeral Home, under the umbrella of Dignity Memorial Network, has recently hired Lisa Sapp and Kim Pooyak as Funeral Attendants who specialize in the preparation of funeral services for First Nations across the province. Christie Doyle, General Manager of Sallows and McDonald-Wilson and Zehner, has been working in rural Saskatchewan for several years. She always noticed that the majority of the funeral homes that she worked in served a high number of First Nations people and she says that they had never had employees that were exceptionally familiar with the cultural needs of First Nation communities to help these families through their difficult times of need. “We started looking for some people that would be a good fit that could really help us identify with the cultures and some of the beliefs and some of the requests that people might have when a loved one passes away in a First Nations community,” states Doyle. Doyle tells us that bringing education about death care to the First Nations communities helps the families avoid financial stress during their difficult time
and, with Kim and Lisa, the funeral home offers someone that they can identify with from First Nations communities. Lisa Sapp first became employed with Sallows and McDonald-Wilson and Zehner six months ago after inquiring about her own arrangements for her own future after her husband passed on. She immediately connected with Christie, who offered her a job. After some deliberation and a talk with her parents, she accepted the position. Lisa says her Cree language and cultural knowledge helps her to understand, with compassion, what her clients go through. Although appreciative for her work, clients are curious as to her “It’s not something you take home with you. I know to smudge at the beginning of the day and at the end of the day; and you pray for the people that you served that day and you pray for yourself too.” Lisa says the work she does in serving the deceased is an honour. Kim Pooyak, also a Funeral Attendant, has also been employed with the funeral home for six months. She has also been an integral part in serving Aboriginal communities during their difficult times. When asked how she became involved in this line of work, Kim says she answered a write up in the local newspaper and received a call the next day and was hired immediately. She says the service she provides has come very naturally to her. “I feel honoured to work with First Nations people in their time of grief and I like to help in any way I can.” Kim says the feedback she has received from her fellow First Nations has been positive and feels that it was something that was really needed in the Aboriginal com-
COWESSESS SCHOLAR LAUNCHES NEW BOOK
Dr. Rob Innes (left) along with Terrance Pelletier, fellow Cowessess Band member and former Chief of the First Nation
L-R: Kim Pooyak, Christie Doyle General Manager, Lisa Pratt munities. When Sallows receives the “First Call” or “Death Call” from a First Nations family, Kim and Lisa go out to the individual’s home, hospital, or other facility in which the person passed away. They then follow through with services right up until they clean up after the service and return to the funeral home. Currently, Doyle says the funeral home is working on getting to the First Nations communities and talking to the families on preplanning, financial talks and ways that they can better serve the families they work with. “There’s not
a lot of education out there when it comes to what bands will cover and what they won’t cover and we don’t ever want anyone to be left in a tight spot after they’ve buried a loved one. We just want to make sure that everyone is well prepared and well taken care of, because it’s already hard enough.” Christie goes on to say she believes that other funeral homes should also take part in this hiring initiative. Sallows and McDonald-Wilson and Zehner is located in North Battleford at 1271- 103rd Street. •
In late November, Robert Alexander Innes launched his book titled Elder Brother and the Law of the People: Contemporary Kinship and Cowessess First Nation. “About the Book: In the pre-reserve era, Aboriginal bands in the northern plains were relatively small multicultural communities that actively maintained fluid and inclusive membership through traditional kinship practices. These practices were governed by the Law of the People as described in the traditional stories of Wîsashkêcâhk, or Elder Brother, that outlined social interaction, marriage, adoption, and kinship roles and responsibilities. In Elder Brother and the Law of the People, Robert Innes offers a detailed analysis of the role of Elder Brother stories in historical and contemporary kinship practices in Cowessess First Nation, located in southeastern Saskatchewan. He reveals how these tradition-inspired practices act to undermine legal and scholarly definitions of “Indian” and counter the perception that First Nations people have internalized such classifications. He presents Cowessess’ successful negotiation of the 1996 Treaty Land Agreement and their high inclusion rate of new “Bill-C31s” as evidence of the persistence of historical kinship values and their continuing role as the central unifying factor for band membership” (back cover). Dr. Innes is a member of Cowessess First Nation and an Assistant Professor at the Department of Native Studies, University of Saskatchewan. Contact him for information on buying the book: rob.innes@usask.ca.
Indigenous Times
6
December 2013/January 2014
Leonard Sumner’s Rez Sound Mixes Country & Hip-hop BY SHAWN CUTHAND
al practices. Much like everybody’s experience in life, it had its ups and Recently, Indigenous Times downs. I’ve done my best to learn was sent a compilation cd from AMP from it all. (Aboriginal Music Project) which features 15 tracks from Aboriginal artists in Manitoba. The project is IT: When did you first pick up a used as a promotional tool to have guitar? all the artists’ music and contact info in one place for the purpose of LS: I bought my first guitar from a future gigs and media. little pawn shop on my Rez. I paid One of the artists on the $100 for it; I think I was about 20 compilation is Leonard Sumner, years old. I had it for about 3 years who is an Anishinaabe MC/singer/ before I learned how to play any songwriter from Little Saskatch- chords on it. ewan First Nation in Manitoba. His music is a blend of country, hip-hop and rhythm & blues. His album IT: What are some of your musiRez Poetry is best available through cal influences? iTunes LS: I’m influenced by so many difIndigenous Times: How was life ferent artists and styles of music. for you growing up on the rez? Growing up I listened to a lot of Oldies and Country music, in my Leonard Sumner: I’m from the teens I listened to a lot of Rap. The Little Saskatchewan First Nation, artists ranged from Slangblossom it’s not very big. Growing up there to Conway Twitty, Willie Nelson to was good, a lot of people still speak West Side Connection. Anishinaabemowin (Saulteaux Dialect) - but not many people practice traditional cultural ways. So I have IT: How important is it for First a decent understanding of my lan- Nations to have their voices and guage, but over the past three years stories heard through music? I’ve started to learn about ceremoni-
LS: I think it’s very important we continue to tell our stories through music and new media. If we don’t tell our side of the story who will? With the expansion of the internet and smartphones, everybody has the capacity to be a storyteller and have their stories displayed worldwide.
hard work though. You have to be willing to put the time in to practice, make mistakes, learn from them, and always keep at it. IT: With your music being a fusion of hip-hop and blues, it must open you up to a wider audience, how are crowds at your live shows?
IT: How much has music been a positive outlet for you person- LS: It’s always a little different; it’s ally? a style that’s fairly new. I haven’t had anybody tell me they don’t like LS: Music has been a very positive it, so I must be doing something experience in my life. It gives me right. I get a lot of folk and music confidence and purpose; it’s thera- festivals and a lot of community/ py when I’m not feeling well. It has school gigs. The crowd depends a taken me around the country and lot on the venue; it’s always a little I’ve even played my music inter- different depending on the variables nationally at a gathering for Indige- of the event. nous people in Brisbane, Australia. It has opened many doors for me, I’m thankful for everything it has IT: Any favorite performance given to me and I always make sure memories or stories? to give back. LS: This summer I went on and I didn’t always embrace my gift. performed two songs before Kris It took a long time to be confident Kristofferson’s set at Vancouver Isenough to share what I do. Ever land Music Fest. There were about since I started embracing it, the op- 8000 people in the crowd, and my portunities haven’t stopped coming parents were in the audience. my way. None of it comes without • cont’d next page
December 2013/January 2014
Indigenous Times
7
“Rez Poetry� - Leonard Sumner
Of all the great opportunities that LS: My only involvement with the music has provided for me, this is cd was contributing a song. Manione I won’t forget. toba Music is a great organization, second to none in Canada. Alan Greyeyes is the head of the AborigiIT: I first came across your mu- nal Music Program there he does an sic on the Manitoba Aboriginal excellent job of marketing and proArtists vol 6 cd, which I think is moting Indigenous Music. a great idea, something that Saskatchewan should put together as well. Did you have any involve- IT: Do you have any tours comment with that project? ing up?
through social media. I have FaceLS: I don’t do much touring, so far book, Twitter, Instagram and a webI’ve been taking any opportunity site. given and this has been good for me. It’s looking like I’ll be in BC IT: Thank you Leonard, I hope a lot this summer, I’m just in nego- we can catch one of your live tiations with some festivals out that shows soon! way. It’s exciting and I’m looking Twitter:@LeonardSumner forward to it. Facebook: Leonard Sumner Instagram: @LeonardSumner The best way to know if I’ll be in http://www.RezPoetry.com your town is by keeping in touch
Follow us on:
www.GoldEagleCasino.ca Play Responsibly
$JUZGVTJPO DB Find local events online
Concerts DJ Dance Night Life Live Music POST & SEARCH EVENTS FOR FREE
8
Indigenous Times
December 2013/January 2014
SUNCHILD LAW HOSTS ROUND DANCE TO HONOUR FORMER RESIDENTIAL SCHOOL STUDENTS BY F. P. FAVEL
L-R: Eleanore Sunchild, Albert Angus, Deanne Kasokeo.
ADVERTISE IN INDIGENOUS TIMES NEWSPAPER. FOR SCHEDULE & RATES: 306-955-0109 / sales@indigenoustimes.ca
On Saturday, November 23, Sunchild Law hosted its 3rd annual Round Dance. The purpose was to honour all of their clients and all past former students of residential schools, whether living or deceased. The round dance is a healing ceremony and its purpose also was to assist the former students, and the community as a whole, heal from the residential school era. The Round Dance also helps the lawyers and staff of Sunchild Law continue in their work to assist the residential school survivors. Sunchild Law assists the former residential school clients present their claims of severe physical and sexual abuses in the Independent Assessment Process, an out-of-court settlement process. They are one of the main IAP law firms in Canada and are fully Aboriginal law office. Sunchild Law has five In-
digenous lawyers and a staff of 12. The round dance was an all-around success. The round dance was entitled STONGER TOGETHER. The various speakers included Principal Shawn Ahenakew from Sandy Lake; Dennis Arcand, conference director of annual Youth Empowerment Conference in Edmonton, Alberta; and First Vice-Chief Kimberly Jonathon, FSIN. The speakers all spoke about the importance of supporting each other as people heal from the abuses of the residential school era and how important is it to never forget the suffering that the former students went through in the residential school. Stickman was Dave Thomas, Chiteck Lake. Oskapoyos, Greg Thomas, Birch Lake. MCs: Dave Janvier, Cold Lake; Smokin Joe Pahtayken, Onion Lake; and Howard Walker, James Smith First Nation. •
December 2013/January 2014
Indigenous Times
9
AFN YOUTH SUMMIT GATHERS ABORIGINAL YOUTH FROM ALL CORNERS OF CANADA BY SHARON THOMAS Saskatoon, SK - November 18th21st marked the 4th Annual Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Youth Summit at TCU Place. Hundreds of Aboriginal youth from all corners of Canada took part in the summit to participate in the workshops and listen to the various facilitators and panel speakers that offered wisdom and information that pertained to their futures and their ancestry. The core elements were of youth leadership, culture, language, grassroots actions, education, health, economic development, environment, rights, and justice.
The powerful young minds that were in attendance were astounding with their collaborative efforts and knowledge. They were proof that wisdom does not necessarily come with old age. First Nations across the country support their efforts to achieve the changes the youth want for their families and communities. When possible, the youth paid for the cost of their attendance to the summit, however, their communities also helped with costs. “The voices of the youth are very powerful, we have to make sure they are looked after right now cause they’re gonna’ look after us,
AFN National Chief Shawn Atleo
Nov. 20 - walk for anti-bullying awareness
and their kids years from now,” an Elder commented. The traditional teachings woven into every workshop, was a concept that every delegate was fully aware of and welcomed in their hearts and minds. Watching the youth socialize, partake in the discussions, and walk from one workshop to the next gave a sense of pride and humility. Elders Walter and Maria Linklater were also on hand for youth consultation; they are both residential school survivors. Walter and Maria are the Aboriginal Elders who work at the Aboriginal Students’ Center on campus at the University of Saskatchewan and with various other groups in and around Saskatoon. Some of the workshops included, First Nations’ control over First Nations’ education, Indian residential schools and intergenerational impacts, Taking Action Against Cyberbullying: Violence Prevention, Live Band Self- Esteem Workshop, Mental Health and Awareness, Financial Literacy, Water: Our Sacred Gift, Housing And Infrastructure, Treaties In The Modern Day, Indigenous Youth Chang-
ing Canadian Democracy, North America’s Missing And Murdered Women And Girls, and STR8 UP Youth and Gangs. The workshops were selected by the AFN Youth Council. An event such as this can take up to a year for the committee to organize. This year’s event took only four months. The theme for this year’s summit was Youth Leadership: Supporting The Way Forward, proving that the youth are the future and their leadership is a critical aspect for the social and economic success of an entire nation. Entertainment in the evenings consisted of, various local entertainment on opening day and ‘A Tribe Called Red’ on the second day. A Tribe Called Red, are an all First Nations (Upper/Lower Cayuga and Nipissing Anishinabe) DJ Crew from Ottawa, Canada. They remix traditional Pow Wow music with contemporary club sounds. On the final day of the summit, the Assembly of First Nations National Youth Council discussed the development of a new 5-year action plan, along with closing prayers from Maria Linklater. •
Indigenous Times
10
December 2013/January 2014
SNTC Rez Christmas heartwarmingly funny as always
SNTC Cast L-R: Darlene Auger, Cory Dallas Standing, Waylon Machiskanic and Lacey Eninew.
This Christmas season the Saskatchewan Native Theatre Company brought the rez christmas series together again and this year’s run has showed its continued success. This year’s play, Mékiwin: The Gift, written by Curtis Peeteetuce and directed by Kirsten Holfeurer brought the laughs with that native humor while at the same time showing how Christmas season is not always an easy time for people. The play focused on the “Cree Kohkom Three” played by Darlene Auger, Lacey Eninew and Waylon Machiskinic and their visit with the doctor played by Cory Standing. A unique thing about the play is that it incorporated the Cree language into the dialogue, and for the convenience of the audience there was a screen with English subtitles. Also the unique setup of the SNTC theatre puts the audience right close to the action giving it a nice, intimate setting. Mékiwin: The Gift had a successful run in Saskatoon, with their last week of matinee shows all selling out. The group then took their show on the road all over Saskatchewan from December 9 - 20.
from the Management and Staff at Painted Hand Casino
STANDING L-R Jeff Wilson –Games Manager, Dale St. Pierre – HR Manager, Lyndon Watson – Guest Services Manager, Gale Pelletier – A/General Manager, Ed Lenartowych – Food & Beverage Manager, Jason Leclar – Security Manager, Rob Bear – Operations Manager SITTING L-T (Laura Pelletier – Cage Manager, Memory Antoine – Finance Manager, Katelyn Wilson – Marketing Manager, Sheri Sparvier – A/Facilities Manager, Sandra Littlechief – Surveillance Manager
HOLIDAY CASINO HOURS:
HOLIDAY LEGENDS RESTAURANT HOURS:
DECEMBER 24 (9 a.m. – 10 p.m.) DECEMBER 25 (12 p.m. – 4 a.m.)
DECEMBER 24 (11 a.m. – 10 p.m.) DECEMBER 25 (12 p.m. – 10 p.m.)
December 2013/January 2014
Indigenous Times
When Wasakaychak Met Santa Claus BY FLOYD P. FAVEL A long time ago, Wasakaychak was out walking in a land of snows, he was getting hungry and it was getting dark. He came upon a little cabin with a big barn beside. He thought, ‘Now I can get something to eat!’, and so he went walking towards this house. He stopped and looked in the window and he saw an old white man, a Moonias, lying on a couch, this old Moonias was wearing long red underwear, he had big red cheeks, a bald head with white hair all around, and a nice big belly. An old woman was sitting on a rocking chair knitting something, little people walked around the house, and one of them gave this old man something to drink. Wasakaychak knocked on the door. The old man said to the old lady, ‘Old lady, someone is at the door!’, and so the old woman went to answer the door, and she opened the door and saw Wasakaychak standing at the door. ‘Tawow’, she said. “ Oh, Miyasin’ said Wasakaychak and he entered the nice warm house. The old lady gave Wasakaychak some rabbit soup and bannock and Wasakaychak began to slurp the soup very loudly, the little people, there was about 7 of them, began to laugh and giggle. The old man yelled at the little people, ‘Hey you boys, shut up, don’t laugh at strangers, especially visitors, they bring us good luck.’ Wasakaychak finished eating and he sat back relaxing. “ You have a nice home here old man, and nice wife, she must have been beautiful years ago, and you have very handsome grandchildren here, and there is so many toys in the house, and you look like an honest hard working man, surely Kise Manitou has blessed you.’ “Tapwe tapwe, nisim” the old man replied. “Who are you?” Waskakaychak asked. “I am Santa Claus”, the old man replied. “Oh tapwe cih? What a great honor, you are known all over the world, and your wife is indeed blessed to have such a renowned man as her husband!” Wasakaychak exclaimed. “And you, who are you?” Santa asked Wasakaychak. “Niya, I am Wasakaychak, I am not as well known as you, I used to be known amongst the Cree People and they would tell stories about me once the first snows had fallen, but nowadays they don’t tell stories about me. I am
nothing, a nobody when compared to you.” Wasakaychak answered sadly. The little people, the dwarfs, felt sad for Wasakaychak and they came and sat around Wasakaychak, and they too had sad faces. Santa said, “Well my little brother, Nisim, we can change that. I am feeling sick today and tomorrow is Christmas, that is when I have to deliver presents to all the children of the world so they can wake up happy. Maybe you can do this for me, and if you do that I can retire and from now on you can be Santa and people will know you all over the world.” “Ahow Nistas, older brother, I’ll do that” Wasakaychak replied. “Okay, my reindeer are outside in the barn, go and harness them up and come back here, my grandchildren here will help you,” Santa said. Wasakaychak got up, went outside and followed the dwarfs. They began to harness the reindeer to the sled and one of the reindeer didn’t like Wasakaychak and kicked him in the right knee. Wasakaychak slapped the reindeer on the nose and the reindeer’s nose turned bright red! “From now on, you will be called, Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer and you will guide this sleigh tonight!” He finished harnessing all of the reindeers and he drove the sled to the house. Santa was outside waiting with many bags of presents. The dwarfs loaded up the presents and Santa gave Wasakaychak a red outfit, “Here put this on.” Wasakaychak put on the red outfit and black boots. He enjoyed how he looked and he walked around dancing and singing a bit. “Now, make sure you deliver all of the presents by sunrise tomorrow, if you do that you will be Santa from now on until the world ends,” Santa said to Wasakaychak, “Now get in the sled, and while you are going, you must say, Ho Ho
11
ing Ho Ho Ho, and all of the people were happy. Wasakaychak danced every song and the Stickman even gave him the drumsticks and Wasakaychak sang some of his songs. The reindeer outside ran back to Santa and Santa was very upset as he then had to dress up and deliver the presents. That was the one time there was almost no Christmas. During the round dance Wasakaychak suddenly remembered his reindeer and his task and he ran outside but the reindeer were gone. “ah kiyam, so what!” • Reader drawing submission he thought to himself and he went back into the round Ho!” And so Wasakaychak took off dance. So, that is the story of how in the sled into the night sky, Wasa- Wasakaychak missed his chance of kaychak was yelling Ho Ho Ho, just being Santa and being known all over the world. • as Santa had instructed. While Wasakaychak was flying through the air, he flew over a Indigenous Times is open reserve; down below he could see a fire burning outside and some peoto the community, send ple heating up some drums. There stories and photos to: was a round dance going on and so Wasakaychak decided he would go editor@indigenoustimes.ca down and dance a bit. So he parked his reindeer and went inside, yell-
Indigenous Times
12 • Christmas.. continued from front page.. Late at night, she would get little stuff together. Our present for the next day was usually a little bag with an orange and some hard candy and some peanuts. We didn’t get it very often, but when she could afford it, that’s what she’d get for us, that made us kids happy. We knew we wouldn’t be getting any gifts or presents or anything like that, I guess our parents couldn’t afford that. Another thing that was really joyful at that time on Christmas Eve was midnight mass. A lot of the older people had gone through residential school and there was a Catholic church on the reserve and we used that to pray. We had a team of horses and we’d bundle up and we’d all get in a sleigh and go to the church. There were sleigh bells and moonlight all over the reserve. I can remember how big I thought that church was and today I see it and it’s so small. The mass
would begin and we’d all have to be quiet. My mom and dad would be singing the Christmas carols in Saulteaux, it was the most beautiful sound I’d ever heard. That brought so much comfort and solace and it still does to this day. After midnight mass, everyone would get back in their sleighs and go home. And then people would start visiting at that time of the night. They would visit each other from house to house and share food. Mom would put us to bed and I can remember people coming in to visit and she would feed them and she’d be busy talking and dishing out food. We’d all be lying in bed excited knowing it would be Christmas the next day. Mom also made a big effort to make sure we had something new to wear for Christmas, whether she made it or bought it, we always had something nice to wear. A lot of the times it was sewn, another skill she learned from residential school. Christmas day, people would come and she always did
December 2013/January 2014
so much baking that she always had something to give to everyone that came to the house. Back then, it was a very big honor to have someone come to your door and wish you a Merry Christmas. I would prefer this kind of a Christmas compared to the kind of Christmas we have today. Back then Christmas was a time for sharing, visiting and a time to remember to help each other out. Christmas today is so different from what it was when I was young. Money today plays such a big factor. When I had my kids, I used to look forward to Christmas and even finish my shopping by October because I could buy whatever I wanted for them and I knew that they would appreciate it. As a child, I didn’t have that. I never had presents to open, so when my kids had Christmas, I made sure they had an abundance of gifts to open. Now I would like to encourage families to take the time to appreciate each other, especially when we’re given children, grand-
children, and great-grandchildren, those are the greatest gifts we can be given. Christmas is the ideal time to give thanks for that. Children are the focus, in the community and in every Nation. They require a lot of appreciation and gratitude. If I could send one message to people today, I’d say, visit your neighbor, someone on the reserve or someone you haven’t talked to in a while, make an effort. The residential school experiences -- that’s one of the reasons that I really cherish and embrace my Christmases as a young child. There was a change in people, mainly alcohol and it wasn’t as fulfilling. It affected the changes that occurred and what Christmases are like today.” Caroline Daigneault is a Social Worker, who has been working with families and children in her community and surrounding areas for many years. •
FNUniv LAUNCHES 5-YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN
FSIN Vice-Chief Bobby Cameron addresses students, staff, and faculty at the Saskatoon Campus of First Nations University of Canada.
FNUC Alumni President Milton Tootoosis responds to the strategic plan on behalf of the Alumni Association.
FNUC Academic VP Lynn Wells and A/President and VP Finance, Juliano Tupone answer questions about the strategic plan at the Saskatoon campus.
The First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv) recently launched its 5-year plan entitled Lighting the Path: First Nations University of Canada Strategic Plan 2013-2018. Launches at the Regina, Saskatoon, and Prince Albert campuses gathered stakeholders for the formal presentation of the plan. After months of discussions, consultations and planning, the approved plan comes at a moment of great promise for First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv), with the University enjoying robust growth and renewal. The following statements were made in a FNUniv press release: “FNUniv’s Strategic Plan is underpinned by the wisdom and strength of our Elders; the vision and leadership of our communities; the promise of our students; the commitment and experience of our faculty and staff; and the continued support of our many stakeholders,” asserted Juliano Tupone, FNUniv Acting President and Vice-President, Finance and Administration. “We will continue to listen to our stakeholders to ensure we remain on the right path – this is a shared journey with a common destination – strengthening and solidifying FNUniv’s reputation as a leader and successful model of Indigenous higher learning.” “The Strategic Plan outlines very clear institutional goals to achieve. Driving this plan, and all we do, are our students; they are the true lights along our path – illuminating the way with their determination and hard work,” stated Dr. Lynn Wells, FNUniv VicePresident, Academic. “With the accounting of the past year through the annual report, this is also a time to celebrate FNUniv’s faculty and their many scholarly and engagement activities. Our academic staff are highly regarded for their academic integrity and their benefits to Indigenous communities. We are making further inroads on new programming focused on Indigenous ways of knowing and student success, continuing to ensure the conditions needed for enhanced retention and graduation rates.” •
December 2013/January 2014
Indigenous Times
13
ISC Student Forum Shows the Importance of Consideration to Sensitive Language BY ARMAND LAPLANTE On Thursday, November 28th, the Indigenous Students’ Council at the University of Saskatchewan (U of S) held a student forum with the U of S President Ilene Busch-Vishniac. The forum was held to directly address some controversies involving Aboriginal people that arose in the draft of Vision 2025 by the Office of the President at the U of S. “Vision2025: From Spirit to Action” is a written document outlining the long-term vision of the University. Vision2025, which mentions Aboriginal students and their needs throughout the document, struck a few nerves with some of the words used in the draft. The words such as “integrate” have historical connections to assimilation and memories of the Indian residential school era, as David Pratt student representative of the Indian Teacher Education Program put it. Aboriginal student representatives and the Indigenous Students’ Council proposed that Aboriginal consultation be carried out when considering Aboriginal issues in University issues such as Vision2025. President Busch-Vish-
niac was in agreeance to consultation and stated the paragraph will be changed. Also noted was that the paragraph was not intended to be read in such a way, but consultation is needed to avoid these controversies as sometimes there are unforeseeable sensitivities with recent histories Aboriginal people have faced. The forum was in itself a precedent to what will be further consultations; and the paragraph, with the help and consultation of Aboriginal people, will be changed in the final document with careful consideration to culturally sensitive language. The issues brought about by the Aboriginal student body and the forum come at a time of sensitivity to the wording used involving Aboriginal people. Recently, there has been much controversy regarding team names such as Redmen or Red Skins. These words seem inconsequential to many outside of the Aboriginal population; but these words, which have grim historical ties, do isolate and intimidate Aboriginal people. This isolation causes a disruption in progress towards a shared, respectful community. •
Terri Favel, President of the Indigenous Students’ Council at the U of S
David Pratt, student representive of Indian Teacher Education Program.
December 2013/January 2014
Indigenous Times
14
SPORTS: Highlights from Indian Country BY BLUE PELLETIER
10TH ANNUAL KMOC TOURNAMENT FULL OF GOOD MEMORIES Ten years after he left us and people will still tell you all about Kevin Moccasin. Whether it’s about how he was so outgoing, or how much he loved to show off his infectious smile. And for those ballers who were privileged enough to see him play basketball, they will tell you all about his amazing skills and his brash demeanour on the court. All those ballers gathered in Saskatoon November 30 and December 1 to pay homage to their fallen brother. Mike Tanton has been a part of every KMOC tournament and says that “the tournaments have been a great opportunity for us to honour the Moccasin family and Kevin’s Memory.” The White Buffalo Youth Lodge played host to the 10th Annual Kevin Moccasin Memorial Basketball Tournament with teams coming from all across the prairies. The winning team was Team Kanata. With Kevin’s best friend Mike Linklater taking home MVP honours. Second place went to G2BG and the third place team was The Bad Guys. Tournament All-Stars were Dave Neufeld, Emmanuel Dodoo, Julian, Thomas Kaye, and Willie Murdaugh. Willie Murdaugh also took home the 3-point championship. In the past years the KMOC tournament would not have happened
Kayla McNab without the efforts of the Moccasin family stepping forward by doing fund raising and organizing. Those who have participated over the last ten years would like to thank all of Kevin’s family, and a special thanks to his cousins Deb, Brandy, Kim, and Marissa. This Year Mike Linklater and Mason Medynski took the lead and helped get the tournament up and running. They also went to Bedford Road Collegiate to do an Anti-Violence talk to about 250 kids. It was a chance for Mike to explain his relationship with Kevin and about their history as best friends. Mike talked to the kids about what happened the night Kevin passed away and how important it is for kids to be mindful of the decisions they make.
KAYLA MCNAB COMMITTED TO THE GAME She has been on skates since she was a toddler and has been playing hockey with boys most of her life. Kayla McNab made the switch to play with girls at the age of 13. She is now
15, and a member of AAA Midget Prince Albert Bears. Besides playing with the Bears, Kayla has played in various tournaments over the years. Including playing for the AA Bantam Saskatoon Comets, who won provincials. She also played for the Huskies Prospects team that went to play down in North Dakota, home of the Fighting Sioux. That opportunity forced her to miss playing in her second consecutive National Aboriginal Hockey Tournament. She was selected to play for Team Saskatchewan. Kayla and her family are members of the Gordons First Nation, and residents of Saskatoon. Deciding to go and play hockey in PA was not an easy choice. Commuting to practice four times a week is tough. Add to that two games every weekend and the time and money starts to add up. Kayla’s mom Danita, is a single mother, and says, “Gas for the first month alone was about $900.00.” Her support system helps her a lot. Family helps financially and with rides. Community members, as well as
Gordons First Nation also contribute. Kayla’s Grandfather, Joe McNab says it’s all worth it. He describes her as “very passionate, she is very committed.” The family thought it was best to take her skills to PA so that she would have a better chance of getting more playing time and because she has a lot of friends in the area that the transition would be easier. She is one of the younger girls on a team that features girls from the ages 15-18. Joe says, “She is playing on the penalty kill and earning her ice time.” Off the ice Kayla is a grade ten student at Evan Hardy Collegiate. She is an honour roll student and also enjoys playing softball. Kayla’s younger siblings both play hockey too. Cam, who is 12, plays for the Saskatoon Renegades. Younger sister Katie is 9 and plays with the Saskatoon Comets. Both would be well served by following the lead of big sis Kayla.
JUS’ SAYIN... I will always remember what I was doing and where I was when the Riders won the Grey Cup…still can’t believe it…The Raptors trading all their talent and looking to lock up Andrew Wiggins in the NBA Draft… Wonder what Johnny Hendricks is doing, you mad bro?…Leaf fans sure aren’t talking as much lately eh?… Why is nobody talking about the OKC Thunder?…RIP ROC…RIP ROC… RIP ROC. •
Young Fathers Trying To Break The Cycle We’ve all seen it, we’ve all heard it “my baby daddy doesn’t do #*%$ for the kids, he is a lazy $&*@#.” But repeat after me: Not all men are the same! Yes, it is true some men don’t handle their business as fathers and aren’t part of their kids lives. But it seems there is a break in such trends where more and more young men are stepping up and doing their part to raise kids that are not only theirs, but others. I have been chatting to young fathers over the last few months. What I have learned about many of them is that there is a pattern of past relationships, which have shaped them into becoming good fathers. Usually there was a lack or presence of a father figure, and often a single mother raised them. Some times no parents at all. Which led them into the foster care system. This may not be the case with all young men that are trying to be good fathers, but these issues or circumstances similar to this were prevalent in almost all that I talked to. Blayne Bird was one of the young men I spent time with; he has a daughter who is two years old with whom he has a joint custody arrangement. A typical day with his daugh-
ter has Blayne waking up at 6:30 am to give her a bath, then breakfast and off to daycare. Blayne doesn’t have a vehicle and usually has to bus it with his daughter to get her to daycare by 8am. School for Blayne starts at 9am, he is studying Recreational and Tourism Management at SIAST. After school he works as a custodian at the same school. He says “ I work so hard because I want give her a good role model as a father. Good fathers are rare to come by these days.” Blayne’s Dad was never in his life. As far as he remembers, his Mom left him when Blayne was just two years old. He says his dad was abusive towards his mother and was an alcoholic. The last memory of his father he has was at his funeral, he died when Blayne was in his teens. Blayne says, “I learned how to be a Dad from my Mom, from friends. I seen mistakes others have made and I won’t make the same mistakes.” He plans on finishing his education so he can find a good job and continue to care and look after his daughter. You may have heard about Mike Scott lately. He is all over the news for his positive contributions to his community. But it is perhaps the
work he is putting into raising his niece that he takes the most pride in. Mike is only 24, and his niece is a young adolescent. Mike knew he had to step up and take care of her or risk losing her to the foster care system for the remainder of her youth. He acknowledges that the struggle to raise her and guide her is difficult. Mike is willing to step up and deal with all the hardships that may follow and says “I don’t want her back in the system.” His own journey has not been an easy one. Mike comes from a single parent family, but one that was marred by his mother’s alcoholism which led him to be put in foster care. Mike himself fought his own demons of alcoholism and substance abuse, but has been sober for quite some time now and has recently coined the phrase “sober is sexy.” Mike says, “We need to ensure that our young people have a better future.” He is backing up this statement by going to school full time, and he has become the president of the non-profit organization Oskapios that translates to mean “helpers”. He is helping the younger generation by sharing his stories of his past and how he has made a better life now. He states that “I don’t know how to be a parent, I’m still young my-
self. But I am trying.” Not only does he try with his niece but he is also part of a fathers group that meets weekly at the Core Neighbourhood Youth Co-op on 20th St in Saskatoon. His daughter is almost six years old. Mike gave her up when he was down in life and is recently doing his part as a father to get back into her life on a consistent basis. He is teaching her about his culture by taking her to ceremonies, sweats and round dances. Mike has committed to having her with him every weekend. These are just a few of the stories that could have been written about so many of our First Nations Men. Many Men do what they should. They are Fathers to their kids and Fathers to other people’s kids. Too often all men are painted with the same jaded brush, by women who were done wrong, by sub par men. To those women I say sorry, and may I remind you: Not all men are the same! To those men who do what is right, not for acknowledgment, but because you choose to live righteously, this was for you. Hiy Hiy. - Submitted by young First Nations man.
Indigenous Times
December 2013/January 2014
15
WALKING WITH OUR SISTERS
Mason Medynski (left); Kevin Moccasin Memorial BBall Tournament
• pictures from page 14.
Katherine Boyer(above) helped coordinate the Regina stop of the travelling exhibit “Walking With Our Sisters”.
The Walking With Our Sisters exhibit was recently at the First Nations University Gallery in Regina. The exhibit, which features about 1,725 pairs of beaded moccasin tops, or “vamps,” is a commemorative art installation for the missing and murdered Indigenous women of Canada and the USA. The brainchild of Metis artist Christi Belcourt, the exhibit began with her call out to artists, Indigenous women, beaders, family members of missing/murdered Indigenous women and others to create an unfinished pair of moccasins in memory of someone who has gone missing and whose life was unfinished. The result is a stunning array of decorated vamps. Individually they are marvellous. Collectively, the exhibit is breathtaking and awe-inspiring. One is struck still by the concentration of love and affection and longing that is beaded into the whole, each woman’s life honoured and remembered with intricate care. The tour has dates in many Canadian and American cities and communities. •
16
Indigenous Times
December 2013/January 2014