Issuu

We listen, learn, and walk together on the path of reconciliation.

have included this press release because residential school denialism is a real thing. Just as some deny the Jewish Holocaust, there are certain Canadians who deny the residential school system and its history and effects on Canada’s Indigenous population. Under Bill C-9 (aka Combatting Hate Act), it is illegal to communicate statements, “other than in private conversation” that “wilfully promotes hatred against any identifiable group,” (section 319(2) of the Criminal Code) and to wilfully promote antisemitism by “communicating statements, other than in private conversation… condoning, denying or downplaying the Holocaust” (section 319(2.1)). Residential school denialism was not given the same consideration. Broadly defined, “residential school denialism” refers to the downplaying or rejection of harms attributed to the Indian residential school system that operated in Canada. Unmarked graves are being seen as hoaxes and the schools as being beneficial. Send texts or other messages of support to the Liberal Indigenous Caucus and hopefully we’ll see a change.

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 // STORY COORDINATOR Patrick Quinn // CONTRIBUTING WRITERS X. Kataquapit, P. Quinn, N. Fedosieieva // DESIGN Matthew Dessner // SALES AND ADVERTISING Donna Malthouse // THANKS TO: Air Creebec // CONTACT US: The Nation News, 918-4200 St. Laurent, Montreal, QC., H2W 2R2 // EDITORIAL & ADS: 514-272-3077 / ads@nationnews.ca / 514-943-6191 // HEAD OFFICE: P.O. Box 151, Chisasibi, QC. J0M 1E0 www.nationnews.ca // EDITORIAL: will@nationnews.ca news@nationnews.ca // ADS: Donna Malthouse: donna@beesum.com // SUBSCRIPTIONS: $90 plus taxes, US: $90, Abroad: $110, Payable to beesum communications, all rights reserved, publication mail #40015005, issn #1206-2642 // the Nation is a member of: The James Bay Cree Communications Society, Circle Of Aboriginal Controlled Publishers, Magazines Canada Quebec Community Newspaper Assn. Canadian Newspapers Assn. Les Hebdos Sélect Du Québec. Funded [in part] by the Government of Canada.

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STRUGGLING WITH A CRIMINAL RECORD? HAVE YOU COMPLETED THE REQUIREMENTS OF YOUR SENTENCE AND PROBATION? YOU MAY BE ELIGIBLE FOR A PARDON THAT SEALS YOUR RECORD

WE CAN HELP YOU! If you are a Cree beneficiary, the Cree Nation Government (CNG) can help you to fill out the record suspension application and if you qualify for financial assistance, the CNG may pay the costs associated with the application.

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL REINTEGRATION OFFICER ON HOW TO APPLY: Chisasibi: Eastmain: Mistissini: Nemaska: Ouje-bougoumou: Waskaganish: Waswanipi: Wemindji: Whapmagoostui:

819-855-2120 819-977-2400 418-923-2661 819-673-2400 418-745-2260 819-895-2126 819-753-2770 819-978-3300 819-929-3796

If you have any additional questions, please contact the Correctional Services Regional Office in Val d’or 819-874-2600 or contact your local Reintegration Officer

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ontamination removal at the Principale Mine site is set to begin this fall, following an agreement between the provincial government and Construction Econord in July. Cleanup efforts at one of the worst abandoned mining sites in Quebec, with a budget estimated at $30.4 million, will generate significant benefits for Chibougamau and Ouje-Bougoumou. “Today marks the culmination of nearly 30 years of perseverance by the Cree Nation of Oujé-Bougoumou,” said Chief Gaston Cooper at the announcement. “For decades, our Nation has worked tirelessly to draw attention to the toxic contamination left by the Principale Mine on its traditional territory and to ensure that this situation is addressed with respect for the concerns of the Cree who use the territory and all those who depend on these waters.” Operating for over 50 years southeast of Chibougamau on Lac aux Dorés, the copper and gold processing site left three tailing ponds covering nearly 170 hectares. They contain approximately 19 million tonnes of mining waste, including arsenic, copper, nickel and zinc. After closing the mine in 2004, the company went bankrupt in 2009, forcing Quebec to initiate a rehabilitation plan in 2011. The restoration project is divided into five phases, beginning this fall with the excavation of an oil spill, the treatment of excavated contaminated materials and the opening of a quarry that reinforces the site for future stages. As work progresses to the site’s renaturalization, the project will create jobs and require local machinery and supplies. The agreement also supports the acquisition of expertise among Cree and James Bay businesses. With arsenic poisoning of wildlife a central concern, work over the past decade included securing former facilities, installing water-testing sensors and collecting groundwater samples. It was the first time Cree have been involved in a mine-rehabilitation plan. “We did visit the actual site a couple of years ago and the soil was so contaminated that we had to be monitored

exactly where we were walking,” recalled former Ouje-Bougoumou councillor Susan Mark. “Even the bus taking us there needed a certain road.” Mark remembered her late fatherin-law drawing attention to the mine’s danger at a community assembly in Chibougamau in the mid-1980s after catching fish with red burns on their gills. She speculated that a higher rate of cancer in the community could be related to the site. Work to restore Eeyou Istchee’s nearly 500 abandoned mining exploration sites began after an $11 million agreement signed in 2018 between the Quebec and Cree governments, Eeyou-Istchee James Bay regional government and the mine industry group Fonds Restor-Action Cri. “It’s fantastically rewarding to see sites that people have complained about their whole lives and seeing results,” said CNG environment manager Cameron McLean. “In a lot of cases, they’re working alongside us. It’s been a slow process just because it’s complex.” Adario Masty, the CNG coordinator of abandoned mining site cleanup, occasionally posts TikTok videos of helicopters carrying away bulky waste. Extensive planning is required to transport personnel and equipment to remote locations. Helicopters are sometimes reserved for firefighting or other industries, while overgrown areas require a crew to clear landing pads.

“You have to see the site, make assessments and analyses of what’s there and then come up with a plan,” McLean explained. “How many trips? Are you bringing in drum crushers? Do you have to bring in crews of specialists? Is there anything about that site to make it tricky?” Costs for each step in the process have risen significantly since the funding agreement, so trips are limited by assessing potential contamination and other issues while the materials are removed. Experts later take soil and water samples to determine whether further analysis is necessary. “Quebec has the responsibility for contaminated soil but we have to demonstrate it,” said McLean. “Contaminated soil stays there. I’ve worked on 70-year sites. Our soil is very cold and keeps everything preserved.” John Rupert’s trapline 60 km north of Whapmagoostui has been polluted since 2006, when a large prospecting camp moved in without his approval. After leaving two years later, they left about 300 leaking fuel barrels and other waste. Black bears and wolves have been seen breaking plastic containers and eating unknown substances. Rupert was pleased that a massive cleanup was undertaken in 2024 and 2025, he said contamination remains. “Things are changing in that area, especially the fish,” Rupert told the Nation. “They’re thinner than they were.

If you stay there in the summer, you’ll still smell the diesel from the waste. I don’t trust hunting there anymore.” The 73-year-old has always lived off the land in the traditional ways he learned from his father. Rupert still spends winters in an insulated cabin near the abandoned site, beside a lake with abundant fish and the area’s best ptarmigan and caribou hunting. “That’s my whole life there,” shared Rupert. “They didn’t tell me they were going to set up the camp in that place. That lake is right at the centre of my trapline. My trapline is small. I can travel it less than two hours by ski-doo.” Rupert still wants answers about the extent of contamination of his land and when it will be safe to hunt. Or when a bulldozer the prospectors left behind will be removed. While protocols are in place to ensure such a situation never happens again, Rupert just wants this land back. “It’s important for mining companies to inform the tallymen before starting the work,” said Rupert. “My grandchildren are starting to hunt but I warned them not to hunt or fish in that area. I hope in the future it will come back the way it was but I won’t be around anymore.”

the Nation

September 30th

NATIONAL DAY FOR TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION Wearing orange, standing in solidarity with the residential school students, their families and all the children who did not make it home.

the Nation

30 septembre

JOURNÉE NATIONALE POUR LA VÉRITÉ ET LA RÉCONCILIATION Porter l’orange, se tenir en solidarité avec les élèves des pensionnats, leurs familles et tous les enfants qui ne sont jamais rentrés chez eux.

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The Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador is calling on all parties contesting the October 5 Quebec election to adopt policies that respect Indigenous equality, rights and jurisdictions. “A proud, healthy, and educated people, supported by a dynamic youth, can only generate positive outcomes for society,” said AFNQL Regional Chief Francis Verreault-Paul. “Removing certain barriers requires genuine political will, and that will help turn these aspirations into reality.” The AFNQL called for the implementation of Joyce’s Principle and respect for Jordan’s Principle, support for First Nations-led child and family services, education systems adapted to Indigenous realities, and the recognition of First Nations police forces as essential services. With the Parti Québécois leading in polls, First Nations are concerned about another referendum for Quebec independence. A decision to send out voter cards in French only sparked a legal challenge alleging that it disenfranchises Indigenous voters. “English-speaking Quebecers are not second-class citizens,” asserted Ungava Liberal candidate Sandrine Rioux. “Nearly 70% of the [Ungava] population speaks English, and for many Cree and Inuit Elders, English is their second language. Promoting French should never come at the expense of democratic participation.” Eeyou Istchee is in the electoral district of Ungava. First elected in 2018, Coalition Avenir Québec MNA Denis Lamothe is not seeking re-election. The first CAQ candidate, Paul Dadie, was withdrawn hours after

making “unacceptable” comments about a women’s centre in Chibougamau. Dadie was replaced by Matagami forestry engineer Amélie Béchard. Other Ungava candidates are Antoine Cote for Québec Solidaire, Sonia Caron for Parti Québécois, and Marc Damant for the Parti conservateur.

Following a serious assault on three Innu women, the Quebec Native Women association participated in the Solidarity March for Victims of Violence held in Pessamit August 29. Additional marches were held the same day in other Innu communities. The incident took place in the early hours of August 16, when three masked individuals entered a residence and allegedly attacked three women with a blunt object before fleeing the scene, leaving one in critical condition. Police arrested several men at a ferry crossing the following day in connection with the incident.

For QNW, this mobilization demonstrated the determination to take action against violence and to ensure the safety of Indigenous women and girls throughout Quebec. “The expressions of solidarity witnessed in recent days must now translate into clear, courageous political commitments that bring about lasting change,” said QNW president Marjolaine Étienne. “The safety of Indigenous women and children can no longer be sidelined. It must become a shared responsibility across all levels of governance and a tangible indicator of reconciliation.” QNW called on all First Nations chiefs to implement concrete measures for prevention, intervention and support services to help build violence-free communities. Political leaders were urged to implement the Quebecspecific Calls for Justice from the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) while recognizing the province’s systemic racism. On March 31, QNW released a mapping initiative

documenting 124 confirmed cases of MMIWG in Quebec between 1950 and 2026. The number rises to 220 when suspicious deaths are included.

The third annual Fire and Life Safety Symposium in OujeBougoumou September 9-11 highlighted fire prevention, emergency preparedness and life safety across Eeyou Istchee. Developed by the CNG’s Capital Works Department and local fire departments, the gathering covered subjects such as air quality monitoring, kitchen safety and personal protective equipment. On the second day, provincial agency SOPFEU discussed forest firefighting skills and techniques. Presentations also focused on car extrication, safety gear and bunker tools, and a car fire showcase. Community members were told to not be alarmed if they saw smoke during the event. The National Indigenous Fire Safety Council recently reported that, despite accounting for 42% of wildfire evacuations, “Indigenous communities and their highly trained firefighters are routinely sidelined by rigid provincial deployment rules.” The organization called on Canada to emphasize Indigenous leadership and traditional fire stewardship.

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Arctic

PTN’s fall season will offer programming that emphasizes authentic Northern living. While new documentary series like Go North! celebrate traditional Inuit cultural practices and their adaptation across the changing Arctic, award-winning comedy North of North is back for a highly anticipated second season. “This isn’t content made about the North – this is the North telling its own stories,” said Adam Garnet Jones, APTN’s director of TV content and special events. The international success of North of North, commissioned jointly by APTN, CBC and Netflix, demonstrates the wide appeal of Inuit-led content. The streaming platform’s first Canadian original series hit the Top 10 in 33 countries, earned a 100% fresh score on Rotten Tomatoes, and won nine Canadian Screen Awards this year. From the beginning, the budget for the series budget provided for the training of Nunavut locals for acting, crew and support roles. Filmed primarily in Iqaluit, the territory’s first production studio opened in time for season two. It was spearheaded by creators Alethea Arnaquq-Baril and Stacey Aglok MacDonald, who said the show has “primed Iqaluit for production.” The success of the first season made it easier to recruit extras and find restaurants to feed the 120-member cast and crew. While the inaugural season was filmed in springtime, this season’s sixweek shoot started in mid-February. “It was minus-50 for four weeks straight,” said lead performer Anna Lambe. Set in the fictional village of Ice Cove, Lambe plays Siaja, a modern Inuk woman who leaves her husband, taking her young daughter to move in with mother Neevee, finding work at the local community centre. Lambe told the Nation that the second season builds on this initial “world-building”, exploring issues like colonial trauma, water contamination and the housing crisis. “The housing crisis comes up again in season two, which Siaja tries to navigate with her best friend Millie,” said

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Stars

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Lambe. “The people aren’t defined by the challenges living up North but how they navigate that, to be resourceful, lean on your community and get minds together to tackle these issues.” Guest stars this season include Canadian actor Bruce McCulloch as Military Mitch and Inuk singer Elisapie debuting a new song. Lambe enjoyed taking Siaja between melodrama and “clownlike comedy” as her character plans an elaborate winter ball, uncovers a startling family secret and moves on with her love life. “We get to new places with her romantically that I would love to explore a little more,” shared Lambe. “People excited for the romance aspect of North of North can get ready for some yearning and unexpected twists and turns.” The Iqaluit-raised actor got her start in The Grizzlies, the 2018 film co-produced by Aglok MacDonald and Arnaquq-Baril. After working alongside Jodie Foster in HBO’s True Detective and appearing in two major Hollywood films coming out soon, Lambe said she hasn’t minded drawing more attention since returning to her hometown for season two. “The most fulfilling part of my career is when young people feel like this is possible for them,” Lambe said. “Every next step of my career is such a joyful surprise for me because I never thought I’d make it this far. To have people look at me with reverence and admiration like I look at Stacey and Alethea is a beautiful thing to share.” In a speech to graduates at her former high school in June 2025, Lambe urged youth to take the risk of pursuing their passions. She feels that increasing pressures on young people doesn’t leave enough room for making mistakes and learning. “There’s so much life that happens after you make a bad decision,” asserted Lambe. “Inuit want to rise together – you have a community that’s cheering for you whether you realize it or not.” As North of North brings global attention to Inuit culture, APTN’s new six-part docuseries Go North is delves deeper into real-life stories of “remarkable people using traditional and modern approaches to keep culture, knowledge and connection alive.” Each episode highlights different sides of traditional travel and Indigenous resilience. The series is narrated by Shina Novalinga, who has amassed over four million TikTok followers and been named to Time magazine’s 100 Creators the Nation

List by sharing videos about throat singing, Tunniit (face tattoos) and other Inuit culture. She was immediately attracted by the production’s authenticity and beauty. “It’s so important to create that bridge between different cultures around the world,” said Novalinga. “Having that openness to learn about each other is important. I never knew starting social media would open doors like this. I feel eternally grateful.” Novalinga enjoyed her first narration experience despite challenges learning the pronunciations of unfamiliar words. With the series available in Inuktitut, her mother also served as a narrator. The show’s first episode features Terry Uyarak going on a walrus hunt in Igloolik. The shoot at the end of July coincided with the season for making fermented walrus (igunaq), a delicacy in the region made by sewing its meat and fat into the animal’s own skin and burying it in the permafrost. “The people here in Igloolik have been known to be walrus people for many generations,” explained Uyarak. “When we take them out, our Elders will say if it’s a good batch; we’ll eat from there for the whole winter. If not, we’ll give it to our dog team who also really love it.” Uyarak discussed how the skin must be punctured so air doesn’t penetrate. The arrival of migratory birds determines the length of freezing. Hunting walrus on moving ice in the winter presents additional challenges, requiring many men to hoist the immense animals. “With one inch leather, you have to know how to sharpen knives,” Uyarak noted. “They dip the ribs in the ocean to eat it afterwards with that sea salt in it. It’s something we love.” Having travelled the world as an actor and juggler with Inuit circus troupe ARTCIRQ and as a musician (a new song with Beatrice Deer is coming soon), Uyarak has become an ambassador for the Far North. Future episodes will feature dogsleds and kayaking. “We hunt for the bigger family, especially the Elders who don’t have a hunting family,” said Uyarak. “Come visit us and we’ll give you a good time. We have northern lights and walrus, sea animals everywhere and Arctic char if people want to come fish.” the Nation

the Nation

O n Septem b er 3 0, we h on o u r Su r vivors , th eir fa m ilies a n d com m u n ities . We rem em b er th e tr u th a n d l a stin g im pa cts of resid entia l sch o o ls . Th ro u gh recon cilia ti on , we ca rr y for wa rd th e h op e of h ea lin g a n d a brighter futu re. EVE RY CH I LD MAT TE RS.

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National Day for

TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a time to pause, listen, and honour the stories that guide our path forward. Across Eeyou-Eenou, strength grows through family, culture, and community connection. The Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay is here to be part of our shared path ahead, through Family Services, Youth Services, Mental Health and Psychosocial Supports, Land-Based Healing, and the Wîchihîwâuwin Helpline. Supporting healing and well-being, strengthening connection, and helping each generation move forward with care.

On September 30, we honour the truth and carry strength forward, together.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Proudly serving First Nations since 1984

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LET’S DRIVE!!! LEARN HOW TO DRIVE WITH US

| S TA R T T R A I N I N G I M M E D I AT E LY

Don’t be a backseat driver anymore! Experience the freedom of the road and we’ll make it happen in no time at all. Contact Voyageur Driving School at 418-770-3699 or check out our Facebook page. Still on foot? Then just come and see us at 203 Mistissini Blvd. The course is available for everyone in Mistissini. SO DON’T DELAY! Come and sign up to expand your horizons

Solidarity, the ability to listen, curiosity about others and living together are the fundamental values on which our vision is based.

Audit | Tax | Advisory

RSPD0004439_Pub Nation Magazine_V4.indd 1

2024-09-06 15:17:04

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Deadline Deadline Deadline Applications accepted monthly. Deadline

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Ambitious Agenda the Nation

ith 52.7% of the vote, Calvin Blacksmith secured a narrow victory over Thomas Neeposh in Mistissini’s run-off election September 2 to become Chief. Philip Petawabano was elected Deputy Chief, ahead of Kevin-Joseph Mianscum. Blacksmith said the closely contested race was a reminder to remain disciplined, transparent and accountable. He plans to strengthen unity as Mistissini addresses the rising cost of living while safeguarding the Cree language and culture, along with the community’s land and waters. The run-off elections were necessary after no candidate secured 50% in first-round voting August 27, which Neeposh led with 33%. Chief candidates Abraham Jolly, John Longchap and John S. Matoush did not advance. The election generated extraordinary community participation, with 27 candidates vying for the nine councillor positions and Deputy Chief candidates Kitty Irene Mianscum and William Nicholls making a strong impact with their campaigns despite not advancing. A livestream of the run-off election had 46,000 views. Mistissini’s housing shortage proved to be the top campaign issue. As a former Mistissini Chief, Neeposh’s campaign asserted that housing and job creation must go hand in hand through the development of a modular home-building facility. Deputy Chief candidate Kitty Mianscum argued that “eviction has shifted from a last resort to a normalized harm.” Claiming a shortage of 800 houses, Blacksmith said there must be consequences when people neglect their rents. He suggested mandatory financial management training for new tenants, budgeting workshops or alcoholism treatment for rent defaults, and raising housing user fees to support future planning. “We have so many social issues because of the overcrowding,” Blacksmith told the Nation. “A household has to have some peace. We want our young people to graduate to become

doctors, lawyers, but with all these distractions it’s hard to become successful.” Declaring the choices made today will shape the future for generations to come, Blacksmith said that if Mistissini is still facing a housing shortage in 20 years, “we can only blame ourselves. If people don’t do their part, we’re going to face a brick wall in the community.” Entering local politics in 1994 when elected Youth Chief, Blacksmith said his team cut their $120,000 deficit in half while generating new revenue streams and launching several initiatives. Blacksmith joined the Mistissini Police Force in 1995, and was later named police director of Nemaska before returning to Mistissini as director, succeeding Michael Petawabano. He helped negotiate the formation of the regional Eeyou Eenou Police Force, which Blacksmith now says has resulted in a loss of control and pride. “If we only have six officers and are supposed to have 21, you have to make them accountable,” said Blacksmith. “Our people are suffering with drugs, alcohol and street gangs. The CNG took the heart and brains of policing, taking something that we had major pride in, and now we don’t see that pride in our community.” Blacksmith supports former Chief Petawabano’s efforts to bring back community justice committees, saying it’s unacceptable for drug traffickers or bootleggers to be operating from band units. He’s open to suggestions that certain offenders face banishment, but not for life. “If you’re banished for 5 or 10 years, I hope that it’s a major reflection, losing out on the cultural element,” said Blacksmith. “Think about the benefits of living in the community. When you try to harm your people, it’s unacceptable. You have to learn from your mistakes with punishment.” While officially a “dry” community, alcohol use is the subject of a recurring debate in Mistissini and other Cree communities. About 20 years ago, Blacksmith and a friend proposed opening a resto-bar, but the idea was rejected by the Mistissini Band Council after facing opposition in a public meeting.

“There’s a reason why you should have a designated area and only open at certain hours,” Blacksmith asserted. “When you investigate sexual assaults, you realize some house parties are a way of cornering a victim. When you talk to the police chiefs of Kahnawake, Wendake or Pessamit that have bars, they don’t have the same volume of interventions related to alcohol.” Describing himself as a successful businessman, Blacksmith founded Cree Source for Sports with Elijah Awashish in 2002. As one of the first sporting goods stores in Eeyou Istchee, it is growing into regional operation. As Chief, he wants to support local entrepreneurs and develop a community plan for coming challenges. “As a businessperson, I have a feeling the hardships will be coming sooner than later,” Blacksmith said. “Everything is becoming very expensive. I thought instead of retiring, I should offer my help to our people.” Blacksmith wants to maximize the capacity of Mistissini’s sporting facilities and explore investing in a hall or recreation centre. Local athletes increasingly participate in provincial competitions, but games are sometimes cancelled when the only gymnasium is taken over by unexpected events. He’d like to see more activity and entertainment options and hopes to bring back winter carnivals, summer festivals and traditional games. He suggested tackling diabetes risk early by establishing blood tests and intervention plans at schools. In the days after the election, Blacksmith spoke with treasurer Richard Shecapio, director general Titus Shecapio and Thomas Neeposh, discussing the importance of all leaders working together for community betterment. As Mistissini faces immense opportunity and complex challenges, he intends to approach other former Chiefs to develop collaborative solutions. “They fought to protect our rights and established the foundation,” said Blacksmith. “Now that the foundation’s made, let’s bring the walls and the roof so we have a house. My job is to make our community united, so we all succeed and are prosperous.” the Nation

CHISASIBI ASSISTANT BRANCH MANAGER Reporting to the Branch Manager, you will assist and support the Branch Manager in the growth, proﬁtability and eﬃcient operation of the Chisasibi, QC branch and community banking centres. This is a full-time permanent position located on First Nations land.

HERE'S WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

30 25

of service in Eeyou Istchee

of promo items experience with certified PPPC suppliers

• Assist with hiring employees and building employee capability to identify, understanding and fulfilling customer needs • Lead, coach and model quality service delivery at every customer interaction • Lead and contribute to the ongoing improvement of the customer experience • Coach to ensure customer problems are handled appropriately, and participate in the negotiation and resolution where necessary • Assist with staff training in product knowledge and fostered within a cross-selling environment to provide optimum customer service • Manage branch profitability through effective control of non-interest expenses, revenue and loan products • Ensure credit decisions and recommendations are in accordance with sound credit granting principles, and are in accordance with policies and procedures • Ensure consistent coaching of employees to deliver on the business sales and service strategy • Maintain and develop relationships with existing customers (personal and small business) and external referral sources to generate demand for Bank products/services • Maintain a sales and service team focus through ongoing coaching and reinforcing sales and service skills and behaviours; rewarding and recognizing sales and service excellence • Develop and build internal partner relationships, supporting branch operations to meet customer service requirements and resolve issues or concerns • Follow and ensure employees are knowledgeable of and comply with Bank and industry codes of conduct and with securities laws and regulations • Follow and ensure employees understand and apply bank/branch operating policies and procedures • Ensure necessary due diligence is taken to support the accuracy of all customer transactions • Ensure timely completion of Self-Assessment Reviews (SARs)

ABOUT YOU • Have proven experience a retail banker or similar role; sales or customer service is preferred • Strong leadership skills • Working knowledge of banking software and MS Oﬃce 365 • Excellent communication skills and enjoy working with others • Have acceptable criminal and credit checks

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS • • • • • • •

We offer a wide range of services that can assist you in the growth of your business

514- 272-3077 | info@beesum.com the Nation

Competitive Salary: $60,719 - $87,436 annually Northern Living Allowance: $10,000 annually Signing Bonus available Health and Dental beneﬁts Healthcare Spending Account & Personal Spending Account Paid vacation Training and career development opportunities

If you do not currently meet all of the above qualiﬁcations, we will provide training, on-site mentorship, and ongoing learning and development opportunities for candidates who demonstrate a strong willingness to learn. Preference will be given to Indigenous peoples who are recognized members or descendants of First Nations, Métis, or Inuit peoples indigenous to Canada.

Please visit our website at www.fnbc.ca to apply online OR drop oﬀ your resume in person at First Nations Bank of Canada, Chisasibi branch OR send your resume and cover letter by email to lisa.anderson@fnbc.ca

CHISASIB CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE FULL TIME PERMANENT ABOUT THE ROLE Reporting to the Branch Manager, you will join the Customer Service team at our Chisasibi, QC branch. As a Customer Service Representative, you will assist customers with a variety of ﬁnancial activities, like making deposits, withdrawals, bill payments, and cashing cheques. As you get to know our customers, you will be able to help them identify some of their ﬁnancial needs and provide them the best solution through FNBC’s products and services, while adhering to internal and regulatory policies and procedures. This is a full-time permanent opportunity. ABOUT YOU

CHISASIB TERM ABOUT

you will assist customers with a variety of ﬁnancial able to help them identify some of their ﬁnancial needs and provide full-time permanent opportunity. ABOUT YOU

You are a highly motivated individual who is passionate about providing a high level of customer service. You have a keen eye for detail and possess strong organizational skills. You are highly adaptable, professional and eﬃcient and enjoys working with others!

QUALIFICATIONS • have your high school diploma, GED, or equivalent; • have strong interpersonal skills; be able to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure; use a calculator and computer; use Microsoft Oﬃce; stand for extended periods of time • experience with ﬁnancial institution software systems preferred • cash handling, customer service, and/or sales experience preferred • Have acceptable criminal and credit checks

• •

We thank all candidates for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

time • •

preferred

•

Preference will be given to Indigenous peoples who are recognized members or descendants of First Nations, Métis, or Inuit peoples indigenous to Canada.

he Cree Native Arts and Crafts Association held its 20th annual assembly September 1-3 in Waskaganish, bringing together artists, board members, arts committees and community leaders for cultural activities, workshops and performances. CNACA President Dwayne Cox opened the assembly with a traditional hunting drum. Executive Director Dale Cooper presented a report to delegates on the organization’s work over the past year. According to Cox, the three-day event helped participants connect with Cree traditions, including a visit to a fishing site, breakfast at Mama’s Cabin (a prominent community gathering site), traditional games, blueberry picking and a screening of the documentary James Bay 1975: The Shock of Two Nations at Rupert House Hall. “The highlight for me was the fish included in the menu, a popular dish among the delegates,” Cox said. “We observed and learned how to set fish nets, prepare, clean and dry our harvest, then smoke the fish.” On the second day, Waskaganish Chief Greta Whiskeychan Cheechoo shared stories about the community. Performances by local singers, musicians and dancers were a highlight. The assembly ended with workshops covering subjects ranging from marketing and social media to funding, pricing, entrepreneurship and intellectual property, as well as painting, sewing and bead-making. For Cox, promoting Cree artists goes beyond promoting Indigenous artwork; it also helps strengthen cultural identity. “Supporting our artists and artisans is vital because it forms part of our history,” he said. “It not only showcases the beauty of Eeyou Istchee but also offers healing and opportunities for our artists and artisans.”

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Cox also emphasized the importance of CNACA’s local arts committees that represent artists. “Supporting these committees will help advance the arts industry,” he said. “They hold the key to helping our people shine and prosper.” Cooper said the gathering was an opportunity to show members how much the organization has evolved and where it is headed. “The goal with this annual assembly was to launch our new strategic plan 2026 to 2031,” he said. The assembly included a review of CNACA’s annual report, financial statements and its new website, which Cooper described as “a mini social media that we’ve made for our members so they can share their artwork.” The new strategic direction and website are part of a broader effort to modernize the organization while expanding opportunities for Cree artists, Cooper explained. “We’re very excited about the organization,” he said. “It was really to showcase to the members a modern organization.” Cooper said each Cree community displayed its own cultural heritage, noting that Waskaganish members introduced local ecosystems and practices and welcomed participants in a traditional camp. Among the activities was fish scooping at the Smoky Hills site, where participants learned about catching Cisco, processing the fish and visited an archaeological site, Cooper said.

“What we’ve learned is that every community is different,” he continued. “Waskaganish is very much one of the older communities and offered its own distinct cultural experience, there’s a lot of traditions because of its location along the Rupert River, especially fish scooping.” Cooper said CNACA is welcoming new artists working in modern music, contemporary jewellery and digital art. CNACA signed a memorandum of understanding with the Cree Nation Youth Council, he added, “with the goal of including youth more within our programming.” More than 50 artists were involved throughout the event. “What’s really important about arts and crafts is that it’s not just about the creation of arts, there’s a storytelling element behind it,” Cooper insisted. “These are traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation. It’s important for us as an organization to keep these traditions alive.” CNACA provides artists with opportunities and funding to help build their artistic careers. “They can get the tools and resources they need to succeed,” Cooper added. Cooper said some participants found the gathering therapeutic with the opportunity to spend time in nature and participate in traditional activities. “This was such an impactful event for them and they felt very inspired,” he said. “It was connecting with the traditional side of things and forgetting the outside world as well as connecting with other artists.”

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ᒥᑌᔅᑲᒥᒡ ᐁᒌᔑᑳᒡ ᐁᒌᐦᑳᔮᐱᐦᑖᑲᓅᐦᒡ ᐧᑖᐧᐯᐧᐃᓐ ᓀᔥᑦ ᒦᓐ ᒥᔫᐧᐄᒉᐅᑑᐧᐃᓐ ᐱᓈᔅᒌᔫ ᐲᓯᒻ 30 ᐁᑯᓐ ᐁᐃᔑ ᒌᐦᑳᔭᐱᐦᑖᑲᓅᐦᒡ ᐆ ᐁᒌᔑᑳᒡ ᒥᔅᑌᔅᑲᒥᒡ ᐁᒌᐦᑳᔮᐱᑖᑳᓅᐦᒡ ᑖᐧᐯᐧᐃᓐ ᓀᔥᑦ ᒦᓐ ᐁᒦᔫᐸᔨᓈᓅᐦᒡ᙮ 2021 ᑳᐃᑎᓯᓈᑌᒡ ᐊᔅᒌᔫ ᐊᒋᐦᑖᓲᓐ ᐁᑯᑦ ᑳᒋᐦᒋᐸᔨᐦᒡ ᐋᑦ ᑲᓇᑖᐦ ᐁᔑᑯᒻ ᐱᐳᓐᐦ ᐆ ᐁᐃᔑ ᑲᓅᐙᐸᐦᑖᑲᓅᐦᒡ᙮ ᐁᑯᓐ ᐆ ᐁᒌᔑᑳᒡ ᐁᒋᐦᑲᔦᐃᒫᑲᓅᐧᑖᐤ ᓀᔥᑦ ᐁᒋᔅᒋᓰᑐᑕᐧᐋᑲᓅᐧᑖᐤ ᐊᐧᐋᔑᒡ ᑳ ᒋᔅᑐᑎᐦᐋᑲᓅᐧᑖᐤ ᐅᓃᒋᐦᐄᑯᐧᐋᐅᐦᒡ ᐁᐃᐦᑖᔨᒡ ᐅᐦᒋ, ᓀᔥᑦ ᐊᓐᒌ ᐁᑳ ᓂᐦᑖ ᑳ ᐯᒋ ᒌᐧᐁᐧᑖᐤ ᓀᔥᑦ ᐊᓐᒌ ᐊᐧᐁᓐᒌ, ᑲᔦ ᐯᔭᑰᑌᐅᓰᐧᐃᓐᐦ ᓀᔥᑦ ᐃᐦᑖᐧᐃᓐᐦ ᐁᔅᒄ ᐁᑖᐦᑯᐦᐅᑯᐧᑖᐤ ᐅᔫ ᑖᓐ ᑳ ᐃᐦᑑᑕᐧᐋᑲᓅᐧᑖᐤ ᓀᔥᑦ ᑖᓐ ᑳ ᐃᔑ ᐅᑖᔅᑳᑯᐧᑖᐤ ᑖᓐ ᑳ ᐃᐦᑑᑕᐧᐋᑲᓅᐧᑖᐤ ᑲᒋᐦᒋᓯᐦᐧᐋᑲᓅᐧᑖᐤ ᒉ ᒌ ᓂᑐᒋᔅᑯᑎᒫᓱᐧᑖᐤ ᐅᑦ ᑲᓇᑖᐦ᙮ ᐁᒌᐦᑳᔮᐱᐦᑖᑲᓅᐦᒡ ᐆ ᑖᓐ ᑳ ᐃᔅᐸᔨᐦᒡ ᐊᓂᑌ ᐅᑖᐦᒡ ᓀᔥᑦ ᑖᓐ ᐁᔅᒄ ᐁᐃᔑ ᐱᒥᐸᔨᐦᒡ ᐁᐃᔑ ᑖᐦᑯᐦᐅᑯᐧᑖᐤ ᒋᔅᑌᔨᐦᑖᑯᓐ ᐆ ᐊᓐᑦ ᒉ ᒌ ᐅᐦᒋ ᒦᓐ ᑳᐤ ᒥᔫᐸᔨᐦᒄ ᐁᐧᐄᒉᐅᑐᔨᐦᒄ᙮ ᐆ ᐁᒋᔑᑳᒡ, ᒋᓂᑐᐧᐁᔨᐦᑖᑯᓯᓈᓅ ᒉ ᒌ ᒋᔅᒋᓰᐦᒄ, ᒌᐧᐁᑲᓄᐧᐋᐸᐦᑕᒧᐦᒄ, ᓀᔥᑦ ᒨᔥ ᓃᑲᓐ ᒉ ᒌ ᐃᑐᐦᑌᔨᐦᒄ ᒦᓄᐧᐋᑎᓰᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ ᐄᔑ ᒋᔮᓅ ᒥᓯᐧᐁ ᐃᔨᔫᒡ ᐁᐃᑎᔅᑳᓀᓰᐦᒄ ᓀᔥᑦ, ᑲᓇᑖ ᐁᑲᓄᐧᐋᐸᐦᑖᑲᓅᐦᒡ, ᒨᔥ ᑲᓄᐧᐋᒡ ᒉ ᑲ ᐱᒥᐸᔨᔫ ᐁᒫᒨ ᐊᐸᑎᓰᐦᑲᐦᑕᒧᐦᒄ ᒦᓐ ᒉ ᒌ ᒥᔫᐸᔨᐦᒄ ᐁᐧᐄᒉᐅᑐᔨᐦᒄ᙮

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Since 2021 this significant day is recognized annually throughout Canada. It is a day to honour and remember the children taken from their families, those who never returned home, and the individuals, families and communities still living with the lasting impacts and trauma caused by the residential school system in Canada. Commemorating this painful history and its ongoing impacts is vital to reconciliation. On this day, we are called to remember, reflect, and continue towards healing as First Nations people and, for Canada, it is a continued learning as part of a shared responsibility toward reconciliation.

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September 30th The day honours the children who never returned home and survivors of residential schools, as well as their families and communities.

Today, we wear orange in memory of the children lost to residential schools, and in solidarity with survivors and their families. Reconciliation isn't confined to a single day — it's built every day, through listening, learning, and mutual respect. Let's listen to the truths that must be heard. Let's acknowledge past wrongs to build a more just future. Let's commit to action, not just words.

Want to know about the potential Want to know about the potential Want to know about the potential Want to know about the potential capacity upgrades at La Grande? capacity upgrades at La Grande? capacity upgrades at La Grande? capacity upgrades at La Grande? One place gathers all the current information on the Ayimiihiituunaanuwich One place gathers all the current information Ayimiihiituunaanuwich One place gathers all the current information onon thethe Ayimiihiituunaanuwich Joint Process, andallcreates a space where your knowledge and concerns are heard! One place gathers the current information on the Ayimiihiituunaanuwich Joint Process, and creates a space where your knowledge and concerns heard! Joint Process, and creates a space where your knowledge and concerns areare heard! Joint Process, and creates a space where your knowledge and concerns are heard!

On the Hydlo and Friends 2.0 Tipi Talks platform you’ll find: the Hydlo and Friends Tipi Talks platform you’ll find: OnOn the Hydlo and Friends 2.02.0 Tipi Talks platform you’ll find: On thesheets Hydloonand Friends 2.0 Tipi Talks platform you’ll find: • Fact topics of interest

• Fact sheets topics interest • Fact sheets onon topics of of interest •• Fact sheets on presentations topics of interest Recent public • Recent public presentations • Recent public presentations •• Recent Photospublic of thepresentations field studies done in collaboration with members of Cree communities • Photos field studies done in collaboration with members Cree communities • Photos of of thethe field studies done in collaboration with members of of Cree communities •• Photos Videosof the field studies done in collaboration with members of Cree communities • Videos • Videos •• Videos Links to the Hydlo and Friends radio show • Links Hydlo and Friends radio show • Links to to thethe Hydlo and Friends radio show •• Links to the Hydlo and Friends radio showyour questions, A Comment Wall where you can publish A Comment Wall where you can publish your questions, • A• Comment Wall where you can publish your questions, and suggestions • Aconcerns Comment Wall where you can publish your

concerns and suggestions concerns and suggestions questions, concerns and suggestions

Go to GoGo toto Go to Hydlo and Friends 2.0 –Tipi2.0 Talks –Tipi Talks Hydlo and Friends –Tipi Talks Hydlo and Friends –Tipi Talks Hydlo and Friends 2.02.0 hydloandfriends.com hydloandfriends.com hydloandfriends.com hydloandfriends.com

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AYIMIIHIITUUNAANUWICH AYIMIIHIITUUNAANUWICH AYIMIIHIITUUNAANUWICH

2026

Provincial Election

To vote

Vote on October 5 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

You must be registered on the list of electors, and your address must be up to date. Check your registration at electionsquebec.qc.ca/check. You must bring an accepted piece of identification (driver’s licence, health insurance card, Canadian passport, etc.).

New electoral map: your electoral division may have changed. Check at electionsquebec.qc.ca/division.

Where and when to vote Find your polling station at electionsquebec.qc.ca/where-when or call 1-888-ELECTION.

Bring your children with you when you vote! Introduce your children to democracy through the small polling stations.

Can’t vote on Election Day? Vote at an advance poll on September 27 or 28, from 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. electionsquebec.qc.ca

1-888-ELECTION (1-888-353-2846)

All advance polling places are accessible. On October 5, most polling places will also be accessible. Check the accessibility features of each polling place at electionsquebec.qc.ca/where-when. If your assigned polling place does not meet your accessibility needs, ask your returning officer for authorization to vote at another location.

On October 5, exercise your right to vote

Élections Québec 251510_EQ_EGP26_7-5x4-875_AN_A_REV2 Projet

Élections générales provinciales 2026

Version

Informer | Vote anticipé

Format

7,5” x 4,875”

Anglais

Couleur

ᐃᔨᔨᐤ CAVAC ᐋ ᐱᒥᐱᔨᐦᑖᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡLangue

agencecartier.com Are you a victim or witness of a criminal act? We are here to support you. Our services are offered throughout Eeyou Istchee and are strictly confidential.

Recto – non BLEED

CALL US

1-877-342-2822

A program offered by:

ᐊᐧᐁᓐ ᒉ ᐃᐦᑖᔨᓐ ᒌ?

WHO WILL YOU BE?

Join us at the ASD Career Fair on October 27-28 in Chisasibi REGISTER

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WEBSITE:

site.pheedloop.com/event /asdcareerfair/

Under the Northern Sky

n August, I was happy to attend the Mattagami and Matachewan powwows, which I hadn't been to in years. These are two special communities I have had the good fortune to be involved with for over 30 years. I stopped attending public events eight years ago when my partner Mike was diagnosed with a debilitating disease. We could not afford for him to get sick with a common cold which meant that I could not catch anything for fear of passing on any sickness to him. We both missed many events over the years, but we were more than happy to hear about these powwows since they meant so much to many people. Many people think of about powwows as entertainment events with drummers surrounded by dancers who perform for everyone’s viewing pleasure. It is a powerful feeling to hear the pounding of the drum, and it is entrancing to hear the metallic, rhythmic shaking of a jingle dress. It’s also amazing to witness the bright coloured twirling and twisting of a fancy shawl dancer, or the power and athleticism of a young fancy dancer or grass dancer. The powwow is more than just performance art or entertaining music. Over the years, I’ve been informed by many drummers, dancers and traditional people that powwow is foremost a ceremonial and spiritual event. To many traditional people, it is a religious gathering meant to bring families together and allow those who are hurt, grieving and mourning to heal and be around a supportive community. Many of the announcers, arena directors, drummers, singers, dancers and organizers are lifelong practitioners of traditional culture, dance and ceremony. These traditional people take on various roles for different powwow events. They spent years learning from Elders in their home community, as well as from other traditional teachers from many places. The dancers wear regalia and it is incorrect to refer to their dress as “costumes”. These dancers and their families have spent a lifetime accumulating everything they wear. Each piece tells a story of how it was made, what it symbolises, what the colours mean, who did

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the beadwork, and often, the parts are handed down from relatives, parents, grandparents or Elders. There is a story to every part of their regalia. The grand entry and exit are the most sacred moments of the gathering and those in attendance are asked not to take photos or videos. Everyone is asked to stand solemnly to honour the opening, remind ourselves why we attend these events and to think of our loved ones in attendance, as well as those who are no longer with us. Over the past 20 to 30 years, Indigenous people in northeastern Ontario have worked to reconnect with our cultural past, which we were taught to disregard a few generations before. Residential school survivors were taught to fear traditional gatherings and many grew up believing that they would be punished for taking part in powwow.

I was very happy to see many young people rekindling this sacred connection to our past. In Matachewan, youth worked with Elders to bring powwow back to the community. And in Mattagami, I watched young people become part of the traditional revival and work closely with local leaders and Elders. There are so many other people from these communities who developed their annual powwows, and it makes me proud to see them celebrating our traditional culture. These two powwows were definitely a healing event for me in so many ways. These gatherings honour our traditional past, remember our loved ones, celebrate our identity, comfort our pains and share the love we feel for one another. Chi-Meegwetch misiway, pah-teemah meena (Thanks very much, everyone, until next time).

ᐎᐦᑎᒫᒑᐎᓐ ᐅᐦᒋ ᐆ ᒥᓯᐦᑖᐦ ᐋ ᒋᔑᑳᒡ ᐊ ᒋᐦᑳᔮᐱᐦᑖᑭᓂᐎᒡ ᑖᑆᐎᓐ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒥᔪᐅᑑᑖᒥᒥᑐᐎᓐ ᐊᔑᑯᒻ ᐱᐳᓐᐦ ᐅᔅᑭᐦᐆᐲᓯᒽ 30, ᒋᒋᐦᑳᔮᐱᐦᑖᓈᓅ ᐊᓐ ᒥᓯᐦᑕᐦ ᐋ ᒋᑲᔮᔨᐦᑖᑭᓂᐎᒡ ᐋ ᒋᔑᑳᒡ ᑖᑆᐎᓐ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒥᔪᐅᑑᑖᒥᒥᑐᐎᓐ ᐋ ᐅᑎᐦᒋᐱᔨᒡ ᒑ ᒌᐦ ᒋᔅᒋᑖᑭᓂᐎᒡ, ᐋ ᒋᔅᑯᑎᒫᓲᓇᓂᐎᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᐋ ᐙᐱᐦᑖᑭᓂᐎᒡ ᐊᓐ ᒫᒨ ᐋ ᐅᑎᓂᑭᓂᐎᒡ ᒑ ᐊᐱᑎᓯᔅᑖᑭᓂᐎᒡ᙮ ᒋᒋᔅᑖᔨᒫᓂᐎᒡ ᐊᓂᒌ ᑳ ᓵᐳᔅᑭᐦᒡ ᐊᓂᒌ ᐋ ᒌ ᐅᑎᓈᑭᓂᐎᒡ ᐋᐙᔑᔕᒡ ᒋᔅᑯᑎᒫᒑᐎᓈᐦᒡ ᐋ ᒌ ᐃᑐᐦᑎᐦᐄᒡ, ᐋ ᒌ ᐃᔑᓈᑯᐦᑖᑭᓂᐎᒡ ᒑ ᐎᐦ ᐊᒋᐦᐋᑯᓈᑯᐦᐋᑭᓂᐎᒡ ᒥᓯᐙ ᐄᔨᔨᐅᒡ ᐅᑎᐦ ᐆ ᑳᓈᑖᐦ᙮ ᒋᒋᔅᒋᑐᐙᓂᐎᒡ ᐊᓂᒌ ᐋᐙᔑᔕᒡ ᐋᑳ ᒥᓐ ᐅᐦᒡ ᒋᐦᒋᐙᒡ, ᑭᔮᐦ ᒋ ᐎᒋᑳᐳᔅᑖᒫᓅᐦ ᐊᓂᔮᔨᐤ ᐅᑐᑖᒥᐙᐤ ᑭᔮᐦ ᐅᑎ ᐄᐦᑖᐎᓂᐙᐤ ᒫᒀᒡ ᐊᔅᑯ ᐋ ᐱᒧᐦᑖᒡ ᐊᓂᔮᔨᐤ ᐋ ᒥᓂᐙᑎᓯᔨᒡ ᒫᔅᑭᓈᔨᐤ᙮ ᐊᓂᒌ ᐋ ᒌ ᓵᐳᔅᑭᐦᒡ ᐋᐦᑖᒡ ᐅᑎᐦ ᐄᔨᔨᐤ ᐊᔅᒌᐦᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒫᒃ ᐊᓂᑖᐦ ᒥᓯᐦᑖ ᒋᐎᐦᑎᒧᒡ ᐊᓂᔮᔨᐤ ᑳ ᐃᔑ ᓂᒋᔅᑭᐦᒡ ᐋᑳ ᓈᔥᒡ ᒥᔻᔨᐦᑖᑯᓂᔨᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᐋ ᒌ ᐅᑎᓈᑭᓂᐎᒡ ᐊᓂᑎᐦ ᐅᐦᒡ ᐋᐹᔨᑯᑖᐅᓯᔨᒡ, ᐅᑎᔅᒋᐙᐦᒡ, ᐅᑎ ᐊᔨᐦᑐᐎᓂᐙᐅᐦᒡ, ᐅᑎ ᐋᔨᒧᐎᓂᐙᐦᒡ, ᑭᔮᐦ ᒫᒃ ᐊᓂᔮᔨᐤ ᐊᑎᔅᑳᓈᓯᒡ᙮ ᐊᑎ ᒫᒃ ᐅᔮᔨᐤ ᐋ ᒌ ᐊᔨᒥᓂᔨᒡ ᑳ ᐃᔑ ᓂᒋᔅᑭᐦᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᐊᔮᓂᔅᒑᐦ ᐋ ᑖᑯᐦᐆᑯᒡ ᐄᔨᔨᐅᒡ, ᒋᒥᒥᐦᑖᑯᓯᓈᓅᐦ ᒥᔅᑯᓯᐎᓂᐦᒡ, ᓲᐦᒑᔨᒧᐎᓂᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᑳ ᐃᔑ ᐊᔨᒋᑳᐳᐎᒡ ᐊᓂᒌ ᑳ ᓵᐳᔅᑭᐦᒡ ᒋᔅᑯᑎᒫᑐᐋᐙᔑᔕᒡ᙮ ᐅᑎᐹᒋᒥᐎᓂᐙᐤ ᑭᔮᐦ ᐊᓂᔮᔨᐤ ᑳ ᐃᔑ ᓂᒋᔅᑭᐦᒡ ᐊᔅᑯ ᒋᒋᔅᒍᒥᑯᐙᓈᓅ ᐊᔅᐱᐦ ᒋᔅᑎᒫᐅᐦᒡ ᐊᓐ ᑖᑆᐎᓐᐦ, ᐋ ᒋᔅᒋᓈᓂᐎᒡ, ᑭᔮᐦ ᒥᔪᐅᑑᑖᒥᒥᑐᐎᓐ᙮ ᐊᔅᑯ ᐊᑯᑎᐦ ᐋᐦᑖᔨᐦᒄ ᐊᓂᑎᐦ ᐋ ᒋᔅᒋᓄᑎᐦᐄᑯᔨᐦᒄ ᐊᔅᐹᔨᒧᐎᓐ ᒫᒀᒡ ᐋ ᐱᒧᐦᑖᔨᐦᒄ ᐆ ᒋᔮᓅ ᐊᑎᔅᑳᓈᓯᔨᐦᒄ ᐊᓐ ᒫᔅᑭᓅ ᐋ ᒥᓂᐙᑎᓯᔨᐦᒄ᙮ ᒋᔮᓅ ᑭᔮᐦ ᐊᔅᑯ ᐋᑯᑎᐦ ᐋᐦᑕᔨᐦᒄ ᐊᓐ ᐋ ᒫᒨᑳᐱᔨᐦᒄ ᐋ ᐎᐦ ᓯᑐᔅᑳᑐᔨᐦᒄ ᑭᔮᐦ ᐋᑳ ᒑ ᐳᓂᔨᐦᒄ ᐊᓐ ᐋ ᐋᓱᒥᔨᑐᔨᐦᒄ ᓈᔥᒡ ᐋ ᒋᔅᑖᔨᐦᑖᑯᐦᒡ ᐊᓐ ᒋᒋᔅᒑᔨᐦᑎᒧᐎᓅᐦ ᐅ ᒋᔮᓅ ᐊᑎᔅᑳᓈᓯᔨᐦᒄ, ᐊᓐ ᑳ ᐹᒍᑐᑎᒥᐦᒄ ᔕᔥ ᐸᒋ ᐅᑖᐦᒡ, ᑭᔮᐦ ᒋᑎ ᐊᔨᒧᐎᓅ ᐋᔓᐙᓈᐦ ᒑ ᒥᔨᐦᑯᒡ ᐊᓂᒌ ᓂᔅᑖᒥᐦᒡ ᒑ ᐱᒫᑎᓯᔨᒡ᙮ ᑭᒫᐦ ᐆ ᑳᔑᑳᒡ ᑎᑯᐦᒡ ᐊᓐ ᒑ ᒋᐦ ᐅᐦᒋ ᒋᔅᑯᑎᒫᑯᔨᐦᒄ, ᒑ ᒌ ᐙᐱᐦᑎᒥᐦᒄ, ᒑ ᒌ ᒥᔨᑐᔨᐦᒄ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒑ ᒌᐦ ᒋᔅᑯᑎᒧᐦᑰᒡ ᐊᓂᒌ ᒥᓐ ᒑ ᐊᑎᐱᒫᑎᓯᔨᒡ ᒑ ᒋᐎᒋᐦᐄᐙᒡ ᐄᐦᑖᐎᓂᐦᒡ ᐋ ᐃᐦᑐᑖᑭᓂᐎᔨᒡ ᐋ ᐆᐙᓯᐱᔨᐦᑖᑭᓂᐎᒡ ᐅᑎᐦ ᐆ ᐋᐦ ᒋᐦᑳᔮᐱᐦᑖᑭᓂᐎᒡ ᐋ ᒋᔅᑎᒫᐅᐦᒡ ᐋ ᒋᔑᑳᒡ᙮

Message on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Each year on September 30, we commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation as a time for remembrance, learning, reflection, and shared responsibility. We honour the survivors of the residential school system, which was designed to assimilate Indigenous Peoples across Canada. We remember the children who never made it home, and we stand with their families and communities as they continue their healing journeys. Survivors across iiyiyiu aschii and beyond have shared memories of a tragic system that separated Indigenous children from their families, their land, their culture, their language, and their identity. Despite this painful legacy and the intergenerational trauma that has affected iiyiyuuch for generations, we take pride in the strength, courage, and resilience of residential school survivors. Their stories and experiences continue to remind us of the importance of truth, remembrance, and reconciliation. We remain guided by hope as our Nation continues its journey of healing. We also remain united in purpose as we support one another and continue to pass on the precious knowledge of our culture, traditions, and language to future generations. May this day be an opportunity for all of us to learn, reflect, share, and help educate the next generation by taking part in community events and activities organized to commemorate this important day. ᑆᓪ ᒞᓐ ᒧᕐᑣᒃᐦ ᒋᔕᐅᒋᒫᐦᑳᓐ/ᑖᐦᑎᐱᐎᓐ ᐅᒋᒫᐤ

ᓕᓐᑎᓐ ᔅᐱᓐᓯᕐ ᑎᔮᐦᒋᔅᑯᐙᑦ ᒋᔕᐅᒋᒫᐦᑳᓐ/ᑎᔮᐦᒋᔅᑯᐙᑦ ᑖᐦᑎᐱᐎᓐ ᐅᒋᒫᐤᐦ

Paul John Murdoch Grand Chief/Chairperson

Linden Spencer Deputy Grand Chief/Vice-Chairperson