On September 3 0 , we honour Survivors, their fa milies and communities.
This day remind us of the tr uth about residentia l schools.
FNEE WOU LD LIKE TO HIGHLIGHT THE HO PE OF H EALING, FOR A B RIGHTER AND M ORE E QUI TABLE FUTURE , BECAUSE E V E R Y C H I L D M AT T E R S .
Photo by Steve Einish
by Will
Nicholls
Ihave always had a soft spot for first responders like paramedics, firefighters, police and emergency room personnel. They have tough jobs, handling crises that most of us can only imagine. Most of us would prefer to have as little to do with them as possible – unless we’re in a crisis ourselves, of course.
But there are times when it changes. My eight-year-old son Declan and I were lucky enough to stumble upon a gathering of first responders in Mount Royal Park at the beginning of September. The police, firefighters and paramedics were hosting an event for Montreal youth.
To be sure, Declan wanted to check it out because of the “bouncy castles.” One of those castles was about a storyand-a-half tall and shaped like a fire truck in front of a burning building. Kids got to go into the burning building, climb up and then slide down. The slide was like what firefighters use to get a bunch of people out of a burning building fast. A great idea.
The paramedics offered training, and I brought Declan over for the 20-minute session. He learned to do the Heimlich maneuver to help a choking victim and what to do if that didn’t work. Then it was on to CPR for people having a heart attack. Finally, it was how to use a defibrillator.
I remarked that they looked a lot different than the defibrillators I trained on around 30 years ago. The paramedic laughed. I gave him another laugh when Declan slowed down on the CPR by saying, “Keep going, Declan, you got to save your dad.”
Declan got the rhythm up again, prompting the paramedic to say, “Whatever motivates them to do it.”
I’m proud of Declan for paying attention and learning this skill. It should be
taught to all young people. There were kids even younger than Declan training to save lives.
The firefighters had a smoke machine and were teaching kids to crawl under the smoke to survive better in a fire. I told them about what my late father Ken Nicholls had us do in Mistissini when we would go into the elementary school classrooms with a smoke machine.
When there was enough smoke (not real smoke), a firefighter in full gear with a self-contained breathing apparatus would enter the classroom. Using a SCBA sounds like Darth Vader on steroids with heavy breathing. Plus, the mask looks like one eye. These combined could scare the hell out of kids, making them try to hide
from the very people coming to save them. By familiarizing them with a rescuer it could make the job of saving them easier in the event of a real fire.
In the past local police would fix up unclaimed, abandoned bikes for people in the community who needed one. Hopefully this continues.
We need to have the first responders in our communities work with the residents in these ways. It shows they are part of the community in more ways than one. Not only can they respond but train, assist and be a more functional member of the community, getting them the respect they deserve.
The Nation is published every two weeks by Beesum Communications EDITORIAL BOARD L. Stewart, W. Nicholls, M. Siberok, Mr. N. Diamond, E. Webb EDITOR IN CHIEF Will Nicholls DIRECTOR OF FINANCES Linda Ludwick EDITORS Lyle Stewart, Martin Siberok MANAGING EDITOR Randy Mayer STORY COORDINATOR Patrick Quinn
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS X. Kataquapit, S. Orr, P. Quinn, A. Niambar, M. Laviolette DESIGN Matthew Dessner SALES AND ADVERTISING Danielle Valade, Donna Malthouse
THANKS TO: Air Creebec
CONTACT US: The Nation News, 918-4200 St. Laurent, Montreal, QC., H2W 2R2
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6, 2024 www.nationnews.ca
The inaugural Cree Nation Business Summit ignited Eeyou Istchee’s entrepreneurial spirit in Chisasibi August 23-25. The event featured several influential guest speakers and an exciting group case study competition.
Eeyoupreneur co-founder Samuel McLeod successfully pitched the idea to Anthony MacLeod and Holly Jackson from the CNG’s Department of Commerce and Industry (DCI) in February, inspired by a case study experience at Cando’s youth summit for Indigenous economic development in 2020.
“Groups had to create a full financial plan, including grants, loans, equity and startup costs, and people really struggled with that,” explained McLeod. “The highlight had to be the teamwork and commitment that these participants had. At the end of the Summit, people had to present their business plan as a group.”
While creating a business plan with randomly assigned partners in 48 hours was stressful for many, McLeod suggested it reflected real-life pressures and forced participants to learn on the fly. Neacappo-Pelchat, Wesley, CarrièreAcco and Beaudry served as the judges, evaluating each plan’s feasibility, community economic benefits and positive cultural impact.
After each day’s speakers, afternoons were devoted to the case study competition, which continued in the evening at the hotel. Local economic development officers worked long hours as coaches to each team.
The $5,000 first prize went to Christa Bobbish, Sehoneh Masty and Hank House for a wellness retreat spa located on an island in Nemaska’s Champion Lake. With a unique brand and financial plan, Bobbish speculated their funding viability put them over the top.
Cree
Nation Business Summit
inspires
entrepreneurs Making business dreams real
Eeyou
by Patrick Quinn, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
“It was like Dragon’s Den,” said Bobbish. “They gave us a list of what they wanted to see. It was such a good business idea. I think we need that in the Cree Nation – everybody’s working hard.”
Ahead of projects including a greenhouse business and moose-hide tanning camp, second place went to a proposed Wemindji bakery. The team had reportedly almost given up before changing their entire plan on the final day.
Bobbish was particularly impressed by this entry as the catering business she founded with her sister in Whapmagoostui over a decade ago is looking to transition into a bakery. As the sisters meet with potential partners, seek funding resources and a place to build, they’re mindful of the creative solutions necessary in a community without road access.
“If there’s not much food at the store we use traditional food,” Bobbish said. “It’s a great alternative. Yesterday we made blueberry muffins harvested from the land. We also do cheesecakes with cloudberries. Whenever we do big caterings, we harvest Labrador tea to serve.”
“Partnering with the Department of Commerce opened it up to more speakers outside of the Nation,” said McLeod. “The whole goal was to provide networking opportunities, knowledge sharing and experience to inspire people who want to pursue entrepreneurship.”
Invited guest speakers included Carol Anne Hilton, the Vancouver-based founder of the Indigenomics movement; Tyson Wesley, the Kashechewan co-founder of FN Clean Water; and Mya Beaudry, who created Kokom Scrunchies in 2020 at age 9.
DCI director MacLeod hosted discussions with Christian Sinclair from Opaskwayak Cree Nation and David
Carrière-Acco, the Métis founder of Acosys Consulting. Acco said, “We had phenomenal thought-provoking discussions about ‘the art of the possible’ regarding on-reserve manufacturing in Eeyou Istchee.”
Local representation came from Chisasibi’s Darius Neacappo-Pelchat, owner of North Auto Garage, construction entrepreneur Adam Gates, and beauty entrepreneurs Sehoneh Masty and Cassandra Weapenicappo-Stephen. Various banking professionals and other specialists also shared insights.
Chisasibi Deputy Chief Mark Wadden was joined by lawyer John Paul Murdoch to discuss economics in procurement, which will be simplified by a new Cree business registry that was introduced by DCI’s Judith Shecapio. She invited participants to join this centralized platform, which will provide a comprehensive list of available goods and services in the territory.
Stephane Petawabano talked about funding opportunities offered by Apatisiiwin Skills Development to Cree entrepreneurs, contributing up to $35,000 annually through its self-employment program.
There are already plans for improving the event next year. The overwhelmingly positive feedback suggests a promising future for both the Summit and the growing number of Cree entrepreneurs.
“Don’t give up on your dream,” said Bobbish. “We face many challenges, but we always overcome. Ten years ago, nobody told us how to start a business, but I believe there are more and more people willing to help with what you want to accomplish.”
Cree Nation AGA unites communities in Wemindji
by Patrick Quinn, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The 50th Annual General Assembly of the Grand Council of the Crees brought Chiefs and delegates from all 11 Eeyou/Eenou communities to Wemindji August 27-29 under the theme “Maamuu – Safeguarding our Legacy in Pursuit of Progress.”
“The AGA makes you reflect on how much work we’ve done throughout the year,” said Grand Chief Mandy GullMasty. “In politics, you never see the fruition of your work. You are one cog in the wheel that continues pushing files forward.”
With one year remaining in the current leadership’s mandate, Gull-Masty and Deputy Grand Chief Norman Wapachee are preparing an end-of-term report to communicate the CNG’s significant internal changes and ongoing work with federal and provincial governments.
While clarifying that community development is primarily the responsibility of local governments, Gull-Masty said a forthcoming social action plan will address certain issues stemming from substance abuse and violence. It was “high on our radar” at the most recent board council meeting.
As the world shifts toward renewable energies, a recent Energy Development Summit considered the role Indigenous communities could play while navigating environmental concerns. Gull-Masty suggested there will be substantial movement on energy and conservation files in the coming months.
The AGA brought back the “Cree Café” to encourage dialogue on emerging issues, this time focusing on how the proposed National Marine Conservation Area (NMCA) can promote Cree cultural practices, economic development and youth opportunities. Former Chisasibi Chief James Bobbish will lead negotiations with Parks Canada beginning this fall.
“We’re hoping to conclude an agreement by May,” explained Wapachee. “One of the challenges with land use planning is harmonizing separate agreements to make sure the Cree play a greater role in management over all Eeyou Istchee. Chantal [Otter-Tétreault] and I are looking at the possibility of making another national park on land, co-managing with northern coastal communities.”
Along with the NMCA, another priority during Wapachee’s mandate has been to establish a Cree Nation Research Institute (CNRI). While various entities have long been involved in conducting scientific research in the region, it lacks central coordination.
“My major concern was people taking all that data outside with no benefit for the Crees,” Wapachee said. “With data, you can influence resource development to better
account for Cree concerns. I’m building this with communities to build trust.”
Having already rejected an offer from Quebec to collaborate, Wapachee supports the Chisasibi Eeyou Resource and Research Centre’s (CERRI) position of overseeing research to ensure Cree data sovereignty. He made a parallel between CERRI’s wariness of the Niskamoon Corporation’s coastal research, partly funded by Hydro-Québec, to OujeBougoumou’s province-led studies into mining contamination.
“Members were concerned the results were from the same government that’s responsible for this mess,” said Wapachee. “I really want to address the environmental issues the Cree have dealt with since development in the territory. People from outside study the Cree through a microscope.”
Wapachee recalled the influx of anthropologists interviewing Elders like his grandfather when hydroelectric projects began in the early 1970s to document the culture before it was expected to be forever altered. One of CNRI’s goals when it’s incorporated next spring is to repatriate the many recordings taken by these researchers.
At the AGA, the Cree Trappers’ Association highlighted the need for research on how climate change is impacting ecosystems, particularly moose, caribou and sturgeon populations. It celebrated the graduation of the Eeyou Ituun program’s second cohort, combining land-based scientific knowledge with fundamentals of the traditional Cree lifestyle.
With last year’s wildfires impacting nearly half the region’s traplines, the CTA is helping rebuild 50 cabins this summer and subsidizing half the cost of cabin insurance. A Cree hunting governance law will be finalized by December, including a dispute resolution process to settle overlap issues around trapline boundaries.
The Cree School Board reported o its expansion of land-based education, which supports Cree-language vocabulary and integrates cultural components into subjects like science and geography. This initiative is expected to improve student engagement and diminish an absentee rate of roughly 30%.
“Our entire student population is placing themselves at academic risk just from missing school,” said CSB chairperson Sarah Pash. “We’ve re-initiated sports leagues and extracurricular activities, collaboration with local recreation departments. This attendance issue directly affects student success.”
To improve attendance and food security, breakfast programs have been implemented and a lunch pilot program will eventually be expanded to all schools. Waswanipi Chief Irene Neeposh and Mistissini Chief Michael Petawabano suggested a wider awareness campaign to address truancy issues at the local level.
While Pash admitted the CSB has long been seen as under-performing, she countered that by implementing appropriate standards and resources there’s no reason why it can’t be the best. With individualized education plans doubling this year for students with special needs and
Tackling a full agenda
new mental health supports, graduation numbers have bounced back since the Covid pandemic.
“Literacy has become one of the main priorities of the CSB, the foundation of all other academic success,” Pash asserted. “One program we initiated is called Lexia, a blended learning model with online components and independent practice. We’ve seen students increasing multiple levels per grade.”
The Cree Nation Youth Council discussed their recent AGA in Washaw Sibi, which produced ideas for addressing substance abuse and empowering leadership at community youth centres. There are early plans to build bridges beyond Eeyou Istchee through a youth exchange with the Ermineskin Cree Nation in Alberta.
At the third annual Acts of Service award ceremony, the late Kenneth Weistche was honoured for his determination to seek justice for former boarding home students; Wally Rabbitskin for his commitment to wellness and inspiring marathon achievements; and Justice Debassige for leading the movement against uranium mining and ongoing dedication to his people.
As well, Janie and Roderick Pachano were honoured for their lifelong contributions to Cree culture – Janie for her dedication to documenting Eeyou Istchee’s history and flora, and Roderick for his roles as leader, negotiator and advocate for Cree culture and language.
“Their efforts inspire us all to strive for the betterment of our people and future generations,” said Gull-Masty.
Tributes for Cathy Merrick
Tributes from across the country poured in for Cathy Merrick, the first woman to become Grand Chief of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, who died suddenly September 6 after collapsing during a media address.
“Today, we mourn the loss of an irreplaceable leader, advocate and dear friend,” the AMC shared in a statement. “Her courage, leadership and dedication will forever inspire us.”
Merrick was a prominent voice for missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people and for equitable health care in First Nations. “She was a true treaty warrior and made sure that governments knew her position of the role First Nations played in shaping this country,” the AMC said.
The former chief of Pimicikamak Cree Nation (also known as Cross Lake) in northern Manitoba, Merrick was elected as Grand Chief of the AMC in October 2022, becoming the organization’s first female leader in its nearly 35-year history. She was re-elected this past July.
“Cathy was a guiding light to Indigenous women and her passing is a great loss to Indigenous leadership across Turtle Island,” stated the Grand Council of the Crees. “Our deepest sympathies to Cathy Merrick’s friends and family during this difficult time.”
Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew said Merrick’s approach “was grounded in the belief that we are all equal in the eyes of the Creator and that
we all deserve to live a good life.” He said he’ll miss her “wise counsel, her drive to get things done and most of all –her hugs.”
On September 11, Merrick became the first woman to lay in state at the Manitoba Legislature before a solemn procession passed through Winnipeg en route to her wake. Led by singers carrying one of her headdresses, the procession included a riderless horse adorned with a star blanket, symbolizing a fallen leader.
“It’s a big honour for us,” said Pimicikamak Chief David Monias. “Even in death she’s bringing everybody together, setting aside our differences to celebrate a woman, a mom, a wife and one of our own.”
AFNQL looks to feds for caribou protection
As some woodland caribou herds cross the “threshold of near disappearance,” federal Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault has recommended the adoption of an emergency decree for their protection.
The decree could ban logging and the construction of new logging roads in Val-d’Or, Charlevoix and Pipmuacan, where caribou are most at risk. Some estimate it could affect the operations of 53
Last winter, Quebec unilaterally attempted to take some caribou from the northern parts of Lake Albenal and relocate them to a designated area in Val-d’Or
companies and 1,400 forestry jobs, costing the province’s economy over $670 million in the coming decade. Quebec’s chief forester said Ottawa’s decree would cut forestry land by 4%.
While local First Nations and wildlife protection groups in the Val-d’Or and Charlevoix regions have long called for a provincial caribou management plan, Assembly of First Nations Regional Chief for Quebec and Labrador Ghislain Picard said they had no choice but to turn to Ottawa for help.
“The government of Quebec persists in excluding First Nations from all decision making related to caribou,” Picard said. “Faced with the refusal to cooperate, the First Nations called on the federal government to intervene in accordance with its legal obligation. Minister Guilbeault was the only one to take our concerns and propose solutions seriously.”
Quebec Superior Court ruled in June that the province failed in its duty to consult Essipit and Mashteuiatsh First
Nations on the development of a caribou management plan.
Quebec Natural Resources Minister Maïté Blanchette Vézina argued Guilbeault is downplaying the consequences, saying, “He needs to back down; we can’t put thousands of workers out on the street.”
Last winter, Quebec unilaterally attempted to take some caribou from the northern parts of Lake Albenal and relocate them to a designated area in Val-d’Or, which was strongly opposed by the Cree Nation. After several attempts, Quebec backed down.
“The meaningful involvement of Indigenous nations is essential in this process, and the Cree Nation is ready to contribute the extensive work we have done on caribou management,” stated Grand Chief Mandy Gull-Masty in June. “We have requested a bilateral process with Quebec and will continue work with Canada to protect the caribou herds in Eeyou Istchee.”
discusses the wild ride of his music career
KONG
Full Circle Moments
by Patrick Quinn, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
When Wemindji’s 65th anniversary concerts kicked off August 28 with a night of hip-hop, it not only signalled the enduring popularity of rap in the Cree Nation but also the influential vision of Steve Einish. The driving force behind Nomad Entertainment, which organized the event, the artist also known as KONG spent his summer sharing stages with some of hip-hop’s biggest names.
A project technician for the Cree Nation Youth Council in his day job, Einish was a rousing presence at the council’s recent annual general assembly. While his advocacy for the region’s youth motivated his involvement in Wemindji’s music festival, the experience turned out differently than initially expected.
Offering to help book two hip-hop acts that topped community surveys, Einish said organizers kept him in the dark for months before telling him Nomad would have its own day. Despite communication friction and logistical challenges, he shifted strategies and booked an ultimately successful all-Indigenous lineup.
“My goal was to showcase our people,” Einish told the Nation. “Being an entrepreneur, sometimes you encounter problems but those are the times when your character is built. It felt they were purposely trying to make me drop the ball.”
Hosted by Kahnawake rapper Will E. Skandalz, the event featured the NorthStars, Violent Ground, Slice, CJAY GRiZ, Showbiz514, Digital Fire and KONG. With numerous generous prize giveaways, over 100 people enjoyed the free concert, which was alcohol and drug free.
“My favourite moment of the entire night was having the youth fully engaged with my words, whether I was hosting or performing,” said Skandalz. “It’s all about the youth when it comes to this music with me.”
When Einish was managing Violent Ground in his earlier days with Nomad, Skandalz (aka Satehoronies McComber) helped them scout locations near Montreal
Photos by Steve Einish
for a music video. Skandalz and KONG reunited to record the track “Rez Dawgz”, which they performed together during this summer’s shows and will soon release an official video for.
Einish’s gritty verse courts controversy with references to Rezolution Pictures’ One More River documentary about the Paix des Braves agreement. Declaring that he’s not a sellout, he raps, “all I know is they lied trying to get a piece of the pie; all they got was crumbs.”
“Lots of Crees have their own say about what went on with our agreements,” Einish explained. “I’m sharing the real, what it’s like growing up as a Cree. I don’t talk about being in a jet or mansion. I’m just a kid from the rez.”
His song “In Da Rez”, which had reached #6 on the Indigenous Music Countdown at press time, recalls his world crashing down at age 15 when his mother died from cancer. It’s been a surreal experience performing alongside hip-hop artists he admired during those troubled years at a group home.
After opening for G-Unit star Tony Yayo last year, momentum started building at the CNYC’s youth summit in February. Driving rapper and concert promoter Peter Jackson from the airport, whose International Touring Agency was responsible for Ice Cube’s cross-Canada tour, an opportunity arose to open the Montreal date for G-Unit star Lloyd Banks on July 3.
“He glanced at me: ‘You killed it out there, man,’” Einish recalled Banks saying about the show. “That moment was unreal. The tour manager said [Banks] doesn’t talk to any acts. After he shook my hand, I watched him perform on my mic. That was like in a movie when the artist is about to blow up.”
A decade-long collaboration with event promoter Rickey Daley delivered an even greater thrill – opening for Wu-Tang Clan legend Method Man and Redman before thousands at Montreal’s Olympia Theatre. Einish received a cryptic call from Daley a month before the show saying, “You’re on!” Then 20 minutes later, he received an email with his name on the flyer.
Coming from the VIP booth, Einish was asked for a photo with a boy about 11 who had a hospital bracelet and appeared to be a chemotherapy patient. Keeping a positive face, it hit him in the three seconds they shared a brief hug that he’s doing something good and should stop doubting himself.
After the Method Man show, Einish was back on the road for his next gig in Mistissini. Opening for Plains Cree rapper Drezus at the Eeyou Istchee Summer Games was a full circle moment. Einish said Drezus was another artist he’d listen to in group home. “The first time I heard Natives can rap and thought this is a possibility.”
KONG’s largest audience was performing in front of 10,000 fans at Innu Nikamu’s 40th anniversary festival before headliner Flo Rida’s electrifying set. At their music industry showcase the previous summer, Einish had made a strong impression and was singled out in a newspaper review.
Offered a one-hour set, Einish brought along Skandalz, Violent Ground and DJ Blaster, calling it “KONG and Friends.” It delivered another surreal experience and backstage Einish was treated to his own trailer, a fridge full of drinks and delicious meals at a catering teepee.
It’s been a wild ride since Einish started writing again during the Covid pandemic, kickstarted by a TikTok duet video challenge, leading to a fruitful collaboration with CJAY GRiZ (aka CJ Monias). Monias generally sends Einish various beats, who then works on verses before they sit down to record – most recently for Monias’ new album to be released September 20.
“I’m excited as an artist to finally have something out there that represents me,” said Monias. “We’re trying to grow the scene. We know it’s going to snowball as long as we keep putting the work into these shows.”
Having just moved into a new house in Wemindji, Einish is currently planning an event for CNYC’s youth week and whatever comes next. He’s open for bookings, including motivational workshops discussing his journey.
“My summer has been a movie,” said Einish. “Good things can come from being positive. There’s more to life than the partying and getting into trouble.”
“When I posted it, I still couldn’t believe it,” Einish said. “People tell me ‘You Wu-Tang now?’ If I hadn’t performed those previous venues, I probably would have gotten stage fright. People were taking pictures; I gave an autograph – just a rock star moment.”
A NEW BRIDGE TO A UNIVERSITY EDUCATION
Want to take courses to get into Engineering, Business, Psychology or the Sciences?
The Kaié:ri Nikawerà:ke Indigenous Bridging Program may be for you! Join a supportive Indigenous community while completing the prerequisite courses needed and developing skills for long-term success. Funding is available.
Learn more at an upcoming info session at concordia.ca/indigenousbridging
YOU ARE NOT ALONE – LET’S HEAL TOGETHER
Every member of our Nation has been impacted by the legacy of Indian Residential Schools. This shared history means that no one should feel isolated. Whether it's working towards forgiveness, acceptance, or finding peace within yourself, remember that healing is a journey best taken with good company and it’s okay if it takes time.
The greatest way to honor the survivors, is to join and support them in their journey to heal from the trauma and legacy from residential schools. For those who never came home, we must remember them as we do with all our family members and good friends who have left before us.
On September 30, also National Orange Shirt Day, wear orange to honour the thousands of Survivors of residential schools.
Chairperson
Bertie Wapachee CBHSSJB
WaaPaKe (Tomorrow) is an intensely personal 2023 documentary by award-winning filmmaker, writer, artist and academic Jules Arita Koostachin. A member of Attawapiskat First Nation, Koostachin’s recent release untangles the complicated journey of healing from intergenerational trauma.
WaaPaKe begins with a interview with Koostachin’s mother, a softspoken woman, recounting the abuse and neglect she endured at residential school. She remembers how those experiences influenced her protectiveness towards her son, Koostachin’s deceased brother.
The film later addresses how Koostachin’s mother became a troubled parent, with anger issues. As a result, Koostachin and her siblings evolved into second-generation victims of residential schooling.
Another filmmaker may have presented Koostachin’s mother as monstrous – a fearsome figure from childhood. However, by starting the interview with the elderly woman recounting her childhood trauma, viewers are primed to see the defenseless child within her. From this framing, the ensuing traumas of Koostachin and her siblings cannot only be placed on their mother’s shoulders. Instead, the blame is directed towards the brutality and inhumanity of the residential system itself.
During an interview, Koostachin vented about her upbringing. “I think I needed just to say it, get it out of my system,” she said.
In the post-production process, she reviewed the footage and opted to self-censor dialogue she considered too harsh. She confessed to feeling guilt at the prospect of hurting her mother’s feelings. “They get older, and they’re more frail, more childlike in a way,” Koostachin observed. “And then you feel like a jerk.”
As a mother herself, Koostachin seeks to break the cycle of abuse that often accompanies residential school trauma. “When people experience trauma as a child, sometimes they don’t move beyond that,” she said. “It’s almost like they’re still kids.”
She addressed how some abuse survivors wind up feeling jealous of the perceived health and happi-
Jules Koostachin’s
documentary WaaPaKe addresses
residential school trauma
by Avanti Niambar | Photos provided by National Film Board of Canada
Silent No More
ness of their own children. After emerging from her difficult childhood, Koostachin sought counseling, to ensure that the burden of trauma would end with her. Accountability and forgiveness are regarded as aspects of healing in WaaPaKe.
Though her mother’s time in school was fraught with abuse, a young Koostachin experienced education as a privilege. When she became a young mother, Koostachin aimed to use education to lift herself out of poverty and secure a better life for her children.
Even as education offered her opportunity, Koostachin still views academia as a “colonial system,” involving the erasure of Indigenous people. Throughout her studies she was plagued by self-doubt, which she attributes to internalized racism.
As an educator, Koostachin attempts to remedy this issue by teaching the next generation of Indigenous youth. She emphasizes her students’ intelligence and their right to question the material they are assigned.
Koostachin speaks of anger, frustration and resistance as driving forces in producing change – and inspiring art. After working for years in social services, film and teaching, she chose to pursue a PhD in philosophy. During her studies, she focused on the topic of anger – the anger that BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of colour) women so often experience.
“It’s this colonial idea of gender. You need to be quiet. You’re not allowed to be angry – then, you’re crazy,” she said, adding, “I have a right to be angry, and that’s okay.”
Projects such as Koostachin’s 2023 feature film Broken Angel explore generational anger, passed down through families. It challenges the colonialist mentality that Indigenous people must somehow feel accepting towards the injustice that has historically been dealt to them.
While completing her PhD, Koostachin sought to collect accounts by Indigenous academics about how residential school impacted their area of study. When people were unable to submit such accounts, the filmmaker speculated: “Maybe people are not ready to speak to their experience being raised by survivors.”
She subsequently approached the National Film Board, seeking the greenlight for a personal film project. The result, WaaPaKe, documents her family’s efforts to shed themselves of residential school trauma.
“Documentary is accessible, manageable and affordable,” Koostachin declared about her chosen medium. “If I’m not seeing something, I know there’s a void. That’s where I go.”
For an example, she brings up KaYaMenTa, her documentary that covers menopause from an Indigenous lens. When she underwent perimenopause, she discovered an absence of information, conversation and support. “Whenever I do any kind of project, it’s because people are not talking about it yet.”
Koostachin models a uniquely Aboriginal directing style, aiming to sustain a safe space with an on-call counselor on set. She starts the day with “Indigenous protocol,” having a knowledge keeper to open and close the production. At film festivals, she maintains closed Q&As to protect her family and herself from insensitive questions.
In documentaries, when subjects sign release forms, the content of their interviews is fair game. Koostachin however, is concerned about the vulnerability of her subjects. Noting that people sometimes “forget they’re being interviewed on camera,” she tries to protect these relationships. And in WaaPaKe, the interviewees include Koostachin’s own children.
Thus, Koostachin runs sequences by her subjects for their approval before the final cut. She recounted one interview in which a young woman started sharing traumatic experiences. Koostachin reacted by switching off the camera. “I could totally exploit this person and be a jerk because they signed the friggin’ release form,” she stated. “But, really, is it worth it?”
Koostachin pointed out the tendency to include characters of colour in stories, only to have them behave in a whitewashed way. “They’ll have a Black character or an Indian character, but they seem all very white... even in their clothing and their earrings and the way they speak.”
Koostachin warns against this tokenizing tendency within the academic community. She calls for “more Indigenous researchers, more scholarship by Indigenous folks, more critical analysis.”
WaaPaKe exists, in part, to combat the erasure of Canada’s dark history. “We can’t forget the past,” she said.
By delving into her family’s experiences, Koostachin opens a dialogue about the after effects of the residential system. “It’s pretty raw, and it’s a pretty brave film, and I don’t say that egotistically. I say it’s a freaking brave film, because it’s a hard film,” she emphasized. “You’re putting all your dirty laundry up there.”
Produced and distributed by the NFB, WaaPaKe will be available to view for free on its website starting September 30.
National Gathering for Indigenous Education
Community
A journey of discovery
Traveling from Kalaallit Nunaat to Nunavut, a group of youth experience the Arctic
by Maude Laviolette
In August, an Ultramarine polar ship set sail on an extraordinary journey that traversed the icy realms of Greenland and Nunavut. Organized by the Students on Ice (SOI) Foundation, this three-week expedition brought together 20 diverse youth and educators for an immersive experience centered on community, climate change and intergenerational knowledge.
The voyage intertwined elements of science, arts, biodiversity and ocean conservation in an adventure that began July 31 in Ottawa, where participants from across Canada convened for preparatory activities. While in the capital, they visited the Ataqatigiit Centre for Inuit Children, Youth and Families in Ottawa, learning about Inuit mythology, culture and games.
According to a blog written by expedition members, “This was a great introduction for those of us that were not Inuit and left us feeling excited for the cultural experiences to come.”
Indigenous Elders and educators joined the group to explore Inuit history, culture and traditional practices. Through storytelling and handson activities, the participants gained insights into the rich tapestry of Inuit life and the profound connection with the Arctic environment. This exchange gave the participants a better understanding of Inuit traditions and helped foster mutual respect and appreciation across generations.
The group then flew to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, to board the MV Ocean Endeavour, which would guide them through the Arctic’s stunning landscapes. Besides the breathtaking vistas, the voyage was a unique opportunity for environmental and cultural exploration.
As the ship sailed along the 190-kilometre-long Kangerlussuaq Fjord, par-
ticipants were struck by the stark contrasts of Greenland’s terrain. The journey continued north along the rugged west coast to the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient ice, some of which is estimated to be 250,000 years old.
The Icefjord’s majestic glaciers and icebergs created a striking backdrop for studying glaciology and the impacts of
climate change. Participants engaged in discussions about glaciology, the effects of melting ice on global sea levels, and the broader implications for Arctic communities, which deepened their commitment to environmental stewardship.
A significant highlight of the expedition was the partic ipation in the 24-hour Global Indigenous Youth Summit on Climate Change held on the United Nations International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples August 9.
In another blog entry, participants wrote: “This week had a major focus on the effects of climate change on glaciers and the subsequent consequences on the Arctic ecosys tems. We learned about how glaciers have been melting and calving at a greater rate in recent decades, reducing the glacial ice coverage and contributing to rising sea levels.
“We also learned how the quantity and thickness of sea ice formed annually has been decreasing significantly due to increased temperatures. This creates a substantial loss of habitat for animals like polar bears.”
The summit provided a platform for Indigenous youth from around the globe to share their perspectives on cli mate change impacts and explore strategies for sustainable development. It highlighted the indispensable Indigenous role in advocating for climate action and environmental justice.
The expedition included visits to the Tallurutiup Imanga National Marine Conservation Area, Mittimatalik (Pond Inlet), Beechey Island and the Devon Island Ice Cap. Each location offered the youth a chance to explore various aspects of Arctic ecosystems and historical sites.
In Mittimatalik, participants learned about traditional hunting practices and the challenges faced by the commu nity in a changing climate. Beechey Island, with the graves of three crew members from the tragic Franklin expedition, provided insights into the region’s historic significance to Arctic exploration.
The Tallurutiup Imanga area, vital for Arctic wildlife and traditional Inuit subsistence activities, underlined the deli cate balance between conservation and community needs. As the ship approached the end of its journey, it arrived in Qausuittuq (Resolute), Nunavut.
This remote community, situated in the heart of the Arctic, served as a poignant reminder of the resilience and adapt ability of Arctic inhabitants. The group’s time in Resolute was marked by reflective discussions and collaborative projects, culminating in a collective commitment to advocate for cli mate action and environmental sustainability.
The participants returned to Ottawa on August 15, before heading home to share their experiences with their own communities. Their reflections and insights were captured through blog posts on the SOI website.
The stories of their Arctic adventure, combined with their newfound knowledge and perspectives, will serve as a compelling call to action for environmental and cultural preservation.
Here’s another edition of the Nation’s puzzle page. Try your hand at Sudoku or Str8ts or our Crossword, or better yet, solve all three and send us a photo!* As always, the answers from last issue are here for you to check your work. Happy hunting.
SOLUTION: Solution to Crossword:
OThe secret stash
by Sonny Orr
ver three decades ago, I was hunting for partridge and grouse with my old friend Buddy. We decided to try out an area just south of the La Grande 2 airport where all the tamarack trees and caribou moss looked loaded with potential for a good harvest. As we walked around silently, searching treetops and lower branches, we came upon a clearing in the forest. It was a beautiful spot to rest, and we sat on a large boulder just to take a breather and cool down from the sweat we worked up.
In the centre of the clearing, there was a single tall tamarack. As I cleaned off my glasses to see better, we noticed that it seemed to be different from the other trees. Just when we were going to get a closer look, we saw some partridge on the lower branches of a tree just on the perimeter of the clearing. Then we
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Always advise the tallyman that you will go on his lands and report back to him on whatever you do
saw another and another, so we decided that we would silently try to pick them off with the little .22 short calibre using an old Winchester pump action rifle and a single shot Cooey.
We managed to bag over 30 by the time we finished and returned to our starting point and decided to look at the tree closer, to see if there were any others. As we neared the tree, we noticed that there seemed to be a lot of white dots, which upon closer inspection, turned out to be thousands of mushrooms stuck on about every branch. We marveled about it and determined that this was the secret stash of mushrooms of the squirrels, which started making a lot of noise when we were very close to the tree.
Probably in defense of their winter hoard, several squirrels got menacingly close and chattered quite angrily. We took the hint and left that sacred clearing, vowing to return another year to harvest more partridge and grouse. Since the sun was setting quickly as it was late afternoon, we headed back to my pickup and slowly drove back to the highway, harvesting another dozen or so partridge. Today was a good day for us and we talked about those mushrooms and guessed at how many there were on that tree of life. We decided to leave it alone for nature to continue its course and drove home.
As we drove our way back home, Buddy’s conversation with me was loaded with recipes on how he would cook these
birds for his family. My recipe was basically to roast the bird in its own juices. We reflected on how many birds there were in that area and wondered why no one seemed to be actively harvesting them. We decided not to tell anyone else about our new hunting site, just in case the tallyman came after us and gave us heck for not telling him that we used his land to hunt.
But it turned out that he was already aware of us being there and asked how we did with our little hunt. We told him of all the grouse and partridge we saw, and he told us that he hadn’t tried that area and thanked us for going there and telling him of our successful trip.
So, some wise words, always advise the tallyman that you will go on his lands and report back to him on whatever you do, otherwise some confusion will arise and then you will get into all kinds of troubles. Also, practice wise and safe gun handling.
As for today, 35 years later, I wonder about that spot and when I pass by it on the highway, I see that the road is overgrown and no tracks lead up that path. I may just call the tallyman and ask if it’s okay to try again, this time with some grandchildren, as my hunting partner passed on to better hunting grounds some years ago.
Happy hunting and enjoy the great outdoors!
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Under the Northern Sky
Autumn is upon us
by Xavier Kataquapit
The Cree word for autumn is Ta-kwagun. I don’t know what it is about Ta-kwa-gun, but it seems as I get older every year at the start of fall, I am saddened to hear that some wonderful people I know have departed and others are dealing with illness.
I was upset about the passing of Lily Batise, the spouse of my friend Jason Batise. I recall meeting her 20 years ago and my partner Mike and I were impressed with what a beautiful, open and kind person she was. She was confident and so bright. She was the type of person who lit up a room and made people feel good about themselves.
Lily excelled at everything she did, and she connected to so many people over the years. I know that she made a huge difference for many Indigenous people, and she will be missed very much by Jason and their children Bazil, Carson, Brady and the Rice and Batise families.
Recently I lost my aunt Theresa Kataquapit. She was a rock in my family and the wife of the late Leo Kataquapit. Her family and friends will feel a huge loss with the passing of this well-known Attawapiskat Elder. Her family also lost Theresa’s son-in-law, Joseph Sutherland, this past summer. Joseph was one of the great hunters and traditional people in our community.
I am hoping and praying that many of my good friends who are sick and struggling with disease find the care and healing they need to become healthy again. My partner, who has a lung condition, reminds me every day of how important it is to pause to sense time slipping though our hands and realize how precious life is. It all makes me feel very helpless. But the realization that I have had people in my life who were kind to me, gave me some of their time, loved me and lifted me up gives me a feeling of hope and gratitude no matter what comes my way.
Despite all this sad news, I am relieved at some happy things that are happening for many people I know. Although the Batise family is dealing with the loss of
We must realize that we need to put our time to good use and do as much as we can make the world a better place. They are rooting for us
Lily I know that they still managed to celebrate the 67th wedding anniversary of Jason’s parents Barney and Doreen Batise. This dynamic duo has contributed so much to Indigenous people over the years and provided us with a family of amazing leaders and organizers who have made life better for their communities and far beyond.
Celebratory anniversaries were also held this past summer for my sister Janie and her husband Brian who were honoured for 33 years of marriage. As well, my sister Jackie and her husband Clarence celebrated 37 years of marriage. They have achieved much for their families and the community of Attawapiskat. My brother Lawrence and his wife Christine celebrated a long and successful marriage with a dedication to making life better for people up the James Bay coast. My dad Marius and my mom Susan would be so proud of all the good work and achievements my siblings have managed over the years.
I am reminded that even with the loss of those so dear to us we have much thanks to give them every day in the memory of the love, time and effort they made to provide a better life for us.
It is difficult to come to terms with death and serious illness. We all find different ways to cope with the fear and pain these big issues present. I recall my parents when they were dealing with death and sickness. I remember that after grieving and dealing with sad news they quickly gathered themselves and put one foot in front of the other to make sure that their efforts would help, nurture and guide
their family and friends while their hearts were still beating.
We must remember that those who have passed and those who are sick don’t want us to be sad. Instead, they want us to get up in the morning and be thankful for the life and good health we have. We must realize that we need to put our time to good use and do as much as we can make the world a better place. They are rooting for us.
