NEW TRIBE
NOTEBOOK from*the*editor Hello New Tribe Readers, I know recent weather has proved otherwise, but it’s coming to that time of the year when the sun starts to shine and layering clothes takes a back seat to figuring out what shorts to wear. I for one will be hassling LeeAnne to make the month of May a shorts only dress code at USAY. Our cover story for this issue features Marcie Meguines, a fashion designer and student, who isn’t afraid to take chances. Check out the great interview written by Melanie Parsons on page 20. New Tribe also caught up with community leader Cory Cardinal in the first of a two part article written by Jonathan Stewart. It’s a no holds barred piece and makes for a great read. This month the magazine also features two articles from regular contributor Charles Atlas Sheppard, as he fills us in on recent FNUC developments and also the ever changing entity of racism. Throw in great submissions by Melissa Victor, Amanda Fox, Jolene FrayneCallihoo, and Elodie Caron, puts
2
NEW TRIBE APRIL 2010
this issue bursting at the seams with interesting ways to pass the time.
Calgary’s Aboriginal Youth Monthly newtribe@newtribemagazine.ca Managing Editor John Medeiros Graphic Design Aboriginal Design Group Urban Society for Aboriginal Youth 1511 10th St. SW Calgary, AB T2R 1E8 403.233.8225 Executive Director LeeAnne Sicker Program Manager Rachel Paris
Need updates on upcoming USAY and New Tribe Magazine events? Feel free to search us out on Facebook and join our growing friends list. We post upcoming events, submission requirements and deadlines, and fun stuff like upcoming movie nights and book clubs. It is also a great place to comment on stories or articles you wish to see in our upcoming issues.
Executive Assistant(Intern) Jessica Hawryluk
Check out our back cover for an upcoming photography, art contest that will give the winner a future cover placement for their entry.
NEW TRIBE is a monthly magazine. Our mission is to promote a positive outlook on Aboriginal living in an urban setting by promoting information sharing within the Aboriginal and youth communities
Want to gain experience in Graphic Design? We are currently looking for freelance designers to work on everything from magazine layout, to creating posters and advertisements. (Experience required) Spread the word, and stay true to it. John Medeiros Managing Editor
Intern: Gerald Rabbit Carrier Board of Directors President Jesse Halton Vice-President Amanda Gonet Treasurer Sarena Provost Secretary Cheryl Hanley Directors Ryan Willert Cherokee Blood Brett Black Plume Casey Eaglespeaker
Opinions expressed in submitted work/letters are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of NEW TRIBE or USAY. This magazine is a forum for Aboriginal youth to speak their minds and share their stories without intervention.
Special Thanks to our Community Partners & Funders
CONTENTS
19
8
26 COVER STORY
MARCIE MEGUINIS
20
story by Melanie Parsons cover photo: John Medeiros
19
NEWS BRIEFS
24 CONVERSATIONS
6 AMANDA FOX
26 CORY CARDINAL
7 WHAT’S GOING ON?
29
GAME REVIEWS
10 YOUTH VS.
30
BEATS
12 FLAVOR
32
LEGENDS
13 COOL EATS
33
RACISM
15 SUMMER WORK
34
FNUC
16 INTRODUCING
37 REVIEWS
19 HEALTH
38
4
U AROUND TOWN
NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
3
NEWS*BRIEFS
Aboriginal Happenings From Across Canada First Nations put pressure on Canada through REGINA – Two Saskatchewan First Nations recently took their fights to the only organization they feel is legally capable of dealing with treaty issues — the United Nations. Evelyn Poitras, a band councillor on the Peepeekisis First Nation, and Wes George, representing the Ochapowace First Nation, appeared before the UN’s Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues on April 22. “It’s an international issue — that’s the forum we belong in rightfully,” Poitras said, after returning to Canada from the offices of the New York-based world body. “Our treaties are not domestic treaties and Canada is always trying to domesticate our treaties is the way we look at it. They’re not domestic, they’re international.” The purpose of the visit was to draw attention to two developments: a citizenship resolution they have put forth in reaction to the federal government’s
4
NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
proposed Bill C-3 — which could let more Canadians claim First Nations identity — and a decades-old treaty claim dealing with Peepeekisis members being forced on to the File Hills Indian Farm Colony that remains unsettled. “The Canadian representatives are there and sometimes they’ll listen more readily to issues in that forum rather than within Canada,” said Poitras. SOURCE - LEADER-POST
Decision on fishing agreement postponed A judicial review established to decide whether to make public a five-year-old, now-expired native commercial fisheries agreement has been postponed, due to a last-minute application by counsel for local First Nations. Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound MPP Bill Murdoch, who has helped lead a fight for the agreements release, said he has received notification that the review by a panel of judges, originally scheduled for April 28 to 30 in Toronto, has been adjourned.
The Chippewas of Nawash First Nation has until May 31 to present promised new “affidavit evidence,” Murdoch read from a letter he received from the office of Ontario’s information and privacy commissioner. Calling the move a “stalling tactic,” Murdoch said it is unclear when the three provincial court judges will hear arguments for and against the controversial fishing agreement’s release. “This is ridiculous,” the Progressive Conservative MPP said Saturday in an interview. “What kind of new evidence can they possibly have against us seeing the agreement?” The five-year native commercial fisheries agreement, signed July 12, 2005, between the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and both Saugeen First Nation and Chippewas of Nawash First Nation, angered the local sports fishing community when it expanded native commercial netting into Colpoys Bay and Owen Sound Bay for much of the year.
NEW TRIBE APRIL 2010 5
TRIBE*TALENT
A M A N D A F O X
6
NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
What’s Going On? MAY,2010 May 6 Body of Knowledge Lecture Series Calgary, AB Mount Royal University May 6 Living with Diabetes is a Family Affair 7th Annual Aboriginal Gathering Prince Albert, Sk Heidi Estrada (306) 933-1238 ext 231 May 6 - 9 Alberta Ballet: Love Lies Bleeding Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium May 7 Red River College’s 10th Annual Pow Wow http://www.rrc.mb.ca/ aboriginaleducation May 7 - 8 ABBAmania Calgary, AB Jack Singer Concert Hall
May 9 Mother’s Day! World Wide May 14 Spirit Song! QAS/ EMMEDIA screening room 201-351 11th AVE SW 6:30pm Calgary May 17 - 18 Aboriginal Health Forum Toronto, ON 1-888-777-1707 www.insightinfo.com May 18 - 20 Vision Quest Conference Winnipeg, MB Ph. 1-800-557-8242 May 18 - 20 Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Calgary, AB Easterbrook Theatre
May 27 Chiniki Lecture Series Dr. Keith Carlson will be presenting on his publication, “An Unsettling Chronology: The ‘Black and White’ Story of Literacy in Salish Historical Consciousness” UofC Red Lodge Calgary May 29 Calgary Education Fair Thorncliffe Community Centre 403.464.9498 Calgary, AB May 29 MRU 16th annual Honouring Graduates Pow Wow Wyckham House Student Centre (MRU) nsc@samru.ca May 30 Calgary Lilac Festival 4th Street SW Calgary, AB Calgary YMCA Rec night Every Tuesday 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
If you have an event you’d like us to include in our monthly calendar, email it to us - newtribe@newtribemagazine.ca by the third Wednesday of the month. Submission deadline for the JUNE issue: MAY 23
NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
7
The Art of Style: 3 Days to Young Women’s Empowerment
Front row: Lindsay Witwicki, Alyson Canales, Nicole Bobak, Chaelee McGillis, Krystal Brisby Back row: Katy Isaac, Sophia Lebesis, Sylvie Arseneault, Casie Cosby, Hair stylist: Hailey Hoover Recently I was asked to take some photos for a before/after fashion project that was a result of a community partnership between the Aboriginal Friendship Centre, and the Calgary Board of Education Pride Program. I ended up meeting some great young girls that were confident, poised, and excited about learning some new aspects of the fashion world. The shoot was the beginning of a longer “Fashion Program”, being instigated by the Aboriginal Friendship Centre that they hope will educate students on the growing field of the clothing design industry. “They loved it, you could literally see the girls beaming with joy and pride”, said Sophia Lebessis the support work for the Aboriginal Pride program.
8
NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
The program hopes to grow into a more in depth look at: Marketing yourself Designing Clothes Knowledge of the Fashion Industry As part of the program Elder Florence Large talked to the girls about cultural perspective in regards to young women and empowerment.
Friendship Centre was on hand to help the girls with the make up aspect of the photo shoot. “You can see the change in attitude, in terms of confidence, that the girls go through during the session. Learning some basic fundamentals will help in gaining confidence,” said Katy.
Katy Isaac of the Aboriginal
Krystal Brisby
TRIBE*cuties
Casie Cosby
Nicole Bobak
Alyson Canales
Sylvie Arseneault
Lindsay Witwicki
Chaelee McGillis NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
9
COMMUNITY
YOUTH VS. MOTIVATION
managing editor John Medeiros
When you stop to think about the state of our nation’s youth, one of a few different topics might pop up. Someone might think about gangs and how the are negatively causing young children to make poor choices just to make a few bucks. There is also the issue of poverty and broken homes, which oftentimes will go hand in hand. Single parents find themselves working harder to pay the bills and put food on the table only to find that they don’t have the strength or energy to confront a child that has started to stray. What’s more, many inner city families are either at or below the poverty level which causes many different problems in many different areas of life. Often, it becomes hard for a child that comes from these circumstances to imagine their life will ever get any better. They are the ones that struggle in school and often go right from high school to a dead-end job because there is not the financial means to do anything different. Youth who have this mindset become callously and dangerously apathetic over time and they find themselves caring less, achieving less and going nowhere. However, all hope is
10
NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
not lost for this group of youth. No matter what a child thinks of school, whether he likes it or not, it is one of the last places in life where everyone has an equal chance to succeed. If a youth is in school and he or she fails to connect with some aspect of education, it is likely that apathy will soon follow. To defeat apathy, everyone around that child must work together to find something that they are good at. Whether it is graphic novels, mathematics, history or social studies, find something that lights a fire within their eyes. Every youth has the ability to find passion for a subject, but it takes the adults around them to help lift them up and show them the light. If they can find something that they truly identify with, whether it is a current even or a community situation, they might be coaxed by their own interests to continue their education. When you can help a child light a fire, you also defeat the plague of apathy or, rather, you give that child the power to defeat apathy on his own. When kids are able to find power and enjoyment in education, they will be
set for life. Achieving success and gaining knowledge will help them understand that although they come from a certain demographic of society, they do not have to stay their if they don’t want to. They have to learn that they do not have to be stuck, but to do that, apathy has to be out of the picture. Encouraging youth to achieve success in school and go onto higher education will be one of the best things you can do for them. They are children and are looking for direction from the adults around them. Make sure you are there to see it, whether they are asking or not. If you can get a group of youth to value education and go on to achieve success in higher education, that’s fabulous. However, sometimes, for some youth it’s too late or they’ve dug themselves too deep in the ground by not performing well in school. In these cases, it might be more worthwhile for them to look for employment instead. This would also be a great idea for a kid who is struggling in school because of what is going on at night. Getting an after school job would be a great way to make sure they don’t
COMMUNITY have time to make those poor choices. Plus, they will start to understand what it means to work for a living. Because of this, they might find value in success rather than theft or drugs. Furthermore, a good worker seldom suffers from apathy because they understand that they are doing what must be done. Another reason youth should get a job as soon as they can is to start to become involved in their community. Often, people believe that their communities are set in their ways and can never be changed or altered. However, there have been some amazing youth who have defied that myth. In communities that struggle, it take the younger generation, the generation that has renewed hope and vitality in life, to say, no way. They don’t have to accept their lot in life if they don’t want to. Therefore, the communities that used to be dangerous places to live and work have become more friendly, open places because of youth who dropped apathy and decided
to start finding success in life. Sometimes all it really takes is a job to put them back on track. For those youth who struggle, they probably just have to much time on their hands. Another way to benefit themselves and the community around them would be to become involved in community activities like volunteering and local groups. In every community, there are always craft groups or groups of youth who get together to clean up the city. Not only will this give them more respect for their community, but it will also burn away any free time they have to get into trouble. Above all, when kids have a project to focus on, they are more likely to remain motivated and stay out of all kinds of trouble. Most importantly, to help the youth in your community to beat apathy, you have to give them a chance to take value in their life’s undertakings. It is not enough to make sure they go to school in the
morning and go home at night. You have to give them options so that you are further giving them a chance to succeed in many ways. In the end, if apathy is ignored or pushed aside, children can stand to be severely hurt for the rest of their lives. Youth who are taught that the state of apathy is as bad or worse than any disease will be more likely to fear it and therefore defeat it. However, they cannot do this alone. They need the help, love, respect, care and direction from the positive adults in their lives. Make sure you don’t let them down and you do everything possible to make sure they have an equal shot at success. Guide them and direct them until they have found their way out of the dark of apathy and into the light of achievement and success. Then, if every community vowed to do the same, the state of our nation’s youth will be much improved from where it is today. Remember, it takes a community to raise a child.
NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
11
FLAVOR
On the Table Fajitas Primavera Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (divided) 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 teaspoons hot chili powder 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 lime, zested and juiced 1 cup canned corn kernels, drained 1 cup canned pink or red kidney beans, drained and rinsed 1 (4 ounce) can mushroom pieces and stems, drained
1 cup canned, whole green beans, drained 1 medium onion, halved and sliced 1 red bell pepper, stemmed, seeded and cut in strips 1 cup canned, diced tomatoes, preferably fire-roasted 1 (10.5 ounce) can asparagus cuts and tips, drained 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional) 8 (8 inch) flour tortillas, preferably whole wheat, warmed by package directions 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Directions: Mix 1 tablespoon olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, chili powder, oregano, cumin, pepper, lime zest and lime juice in a medium mixing bowl. Add corn, kidney beans, mushrooms and green beans. Toss gently until all vegetables are coated. Set aside for 10 minutes. Heat the remaining one tablespoon oil in a large, well seasoned skillet over high heat until smoking. Add onion and bell pepper and saute until browned and tender, about 5 minutes. Add marinated corn-bean mixture with the marinade and tomatoes; cook until steaming hot, about 4 minutes, stirring often. Gently fold in asparagus and cilantro, if used, and heat through, about 1 minute. To assemble fajitas; spoon 3/4 cup vegetable filling into the center of each warm tortilla. Top with 2 tablespoons shredded cheese, fold in one side and roll up. Serve with sour cream and/ or guacamole, if desired.
12
NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
FLAVOR
COOL EATS/COOL PRICE No Knead Bread by Elodie Caron
This is the easiest, best bread in the world, and for crazy cheap. For about $12, you can get a bag of flour, a package of yeast and a box of salt and you’ve got enough to last at least a month. You’re also going to need a fairly large, sturdy pot but if you don’t have one, you should be able to pick one up at a secondhand store. If the lid is made of glass, cover the pot with foil instead and if it has plastic handles, unscrew them and take them off (you can always put them back on later) because otherwise they’ll shatter or melt in the oven. What you’ll need: 3 cups of flour 1 1/4 teaspoons of salt 3/4 teaspoon of yeast (instant is best, but any kind will work) 1 1/2 cups of very slightly warm water, about the same temperature as your skin (you may need an extra tablespoon or two) A small amount of oil, about 1 - 2 tablespoons, or non-stick cooking spray like Pam. In a large bowl, mix the yeast, flour and salt together, making sure to distribute the yeast evenly. Pour in the water and mix until a soft, loose ball of dough forms. If you need extra water, pour it in a little at a time, just until the dough holds and the flour on the bottom of the bowl is incorporated. Lightly coat the dough with oil, rolling it until it’s completely covered, but not greasy. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, then with a dish towel, and set the bowl in a warm, quiet spot in the kitchen (I put mine in the oven, with the heat off) for at least 8 hours. Once the dough has risen, lightly oil a clean countertop. The dough will be huge and bubbly, at least doubled in size. Carefully push it away from the edges of the bowl, then roll it out onto the countertop, fold it over once, cover with plastic wrap again and let it sit for another hour. About 20 minutes before the hour is up, put the pot in the oven and pre-heat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit (250 Celsius). Once the hour is up, quickly roll the dough into a ball, put on some gloves, get the pot out of the oven, drop the dough in, cover the pot and put it back in the oven. Bake it for about 25 - 30 minutes, then take the lid or foil off and let it bake for another 15 minutes, until the top is nice and brown. The bread won’t be stuck to the pot at all, you just have to lift it out and set it aside to cool. You’ll want to cut a chunk while it’s still warm and crunchy, but don’t eat it all at once, because it also makes phenomenal sandwiches and toast. So much better than the sugary Stepford loaves you get at the corner store.
NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
13
TRIBE * POETRY
I’m not gonna hide my rhymes anymore I’m opening my closet door Takin my notebooks outta my wardrobe And napkin notes outta my drawers And dumpin ‘em out onto the floor For anyone who wants to see At least a glimpse inside my mind I’m me So come on grab a seat Find your contribution in writing me Check it out, my biography They say don’t judge a book by its cover Well my heart is on the cover To show the world that I’m a lover And if you look in people’s pockets You’ll see a page of me within Or a word cut into a heart shape Stuck into their lockets with a pin And you were snoopin anyway So here’s a chair Have a stay Come see me All I am, all that’s me Check it out, my biography And you can search my pages for ages and ages Till you’ve grown tired and old And I still wont make any sense to you In the original or sequels’ sequels Because a spirit is timeless Like Christ’s commandment stones Shared in my nation for generations Dates back to the times of old Passed down and now you can see My heart on the cover Like Its worn on my sleeve Cause this is me Shayy B Check it out, my biography by Shayy B
14
NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
COMMUNITY
SUMMER Alberta has escaped the economic depression that other Canadian Provinces have endured. Students looking for summer jobs will find an abundance of opportunities in Alberta. Whether you enjoy the great outdoors, working with your hands or office work, Alberta has something to offer. For students who want to brush up on office skills and learn about the workings of government Alberta offers student summer employment. Students are hired from a two to four month period in a variety of areas. Jobs include, administrative tasks, policy, finance, and research. Important career related experience can be acquired in law, communications, human services and administrative support. There are even opportunities in environmental science, tourism, conservation, ground keeping and maintenance. To qualify for the Student Summer Employment program you must be enrolled in a secondary or post-secondary school and be returning to your studies in September. Available jobs can be viewed and applied for online at www.jobs.alberta.ca The mountains and lakes of Alberta lends itself to working in the great outdoors. If you enjoy nature and interacting with youth, a summer position at a camp may be your best option. There are camps to support many interest, from hockey, videography, and ballet, to equestrian and white water activities. Those with expertise in are sought as instructors. There are also opportunities
WORK for camp counselors as well as maintenance personnel, cooks and general helpers. With food and lodging often paid, a job at a summer camp is a wonderful way to save up money for the next school year. Love gardening, landscaping and working outdoors, but would rather not work with children? The acreage in Alberta make a summer job as a landscaper ideal. Alberta is home to many families of wealth who made need help with yard work when they are away on business or vacationing. Check the local papers and job boards for families that may need a trustworthy student to care for the home. Another option is to seek a position with a lawn care company. During the summer months the demand for landscaping services increase. Earn money while enjoying the beautiful summer months. Students who enjoy a game of golf may find a temporary position at an Alberta golf club appealing. There are often positions as wait staff, bartenders and kitchen staff available during the summer months. Candidates with strong interpersonal skills, able to work as a team or usually preferred. Positions often provide for meal allowances and access to the course with staff golfing privileges. If you are comfortable serving others, a summer at a private golf club may be the perfect fit. There are quite a few opportunities for student painters in Alberta from May to September. The seasonal nature of the work
makes the temporary summer job perfect for students who require flexibility. There are student run paint franchises as well as open positions in private companies. A job as a painter can pay up to $30.00 an hour. Most jobs require students to have their own vehicle to make it to and from the job sites. If you don’t mind a little hard work and heights, painting for dollars might be a good bet this summer. Do you enjoy shopping and have an eye for detail? There are contract opportunities all over Alberta for Mystery Shoppers. You will not get rich mystery shopping, but if you sign up with enough customers serving Alberta businesses you can earn some pretty good pocket change and get free food and merchandise to boot. Mystery shoppers are required to fill out detailed reports regarding their shopping experience. Students use to writing term papers will find the process very easy to master. If you are looking for a job with little demands, flexibility, and extra cash mystery shopping could be your forte. With the abundance of opportunities, students finding a job in Alberta, Canada is as simple is finding a job that matches your interest. It is also a great time to be paid while trying a new experience or learning something new. The best part is, if you don’t like the job, you can always start fresh next summer.
NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
15
INTRODUCING
EXPLORE, DREAM, DISCOVER. Despite being the ‘newbie’ at USAY, my co-workers were gracious enough to let me know that if I didn’t take the time to write a little biography, John the Editor would do it for me. In my attempt to avoid complete humiliation, I thought I’d take this opportunity to embarrass myself and tell all you readers a little about ‘me’. It all started when…nah I’m just joking. I’ll just start where it matters most and hope you learn something about me, and what’s brought me to USAY.
realized that sometimes it is the small things in life that make the biggest impact. Let me explain; a few years ago while attending Trent University in Peterborough, my Mom gave me a fridge magnet, it read: Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the harbor, catch the trade winds in your sails. EXPLORE, DREAM, DISCOVER.
I recently drove out here from Toronto. Yeah, yeah I know what you’re thinking ‘oh great, another Ontarian’, but hey don’t be a hater; I love Calgary and everything it has to offer! The drive out here was amazing, anyone who hasn’t done it yet – should! It’s beautiful; it made me even more proud to be Canadian. On the drive out here I faced the harsh reality that I was leaving my cat, boyfriend, friends and family further and further behind with each passing kilometer. It wasn’t easy, but what made it easier was keeping in mind that I was doing something everyone I love (including myself) was proud of. I was doing what was best for ‘me’, and that felt good. Pondering my ‘new life’ that got closer and closer with each click on the odometer, I
16
NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
I am by no means a sailor; in fact I’ve only been in a boat maybe five times my entire life. Despite not knowing what a bowline is or what direction trade winds blow, the message of the magnet has stuck with me
by Rachel Paris
over the last few years. In fact, I believe the message will stick with me until I can no longer remember my own name, let alone a quote. While my mom had given me that magnet in my second year of University, I realized on my drive out here that I hadn’t truly appreciate the message until I reached my senior year. As the end of the final semester of my Native Studies degree program at Trent approached, I suddenly realized that I didn’t know what the heck I was going to do with my life! Panic stricken, I quickly jumped into ‘explore’ mode and attempted to find out what I had spent the last four years of my life doing, and what I wanted to do with all the years left to come. For any of you who have pondered this difficult question, “what do I want to do with my life”, you know that it’s not an easy one to answer, especially for those of us who aren’t blessed with some incredible, super-human ability or talent. Utilizing Trent’s career centre and spending countless hours talking to professors, friends and family I finally figured out what I wanted to do – more school! Haha, now I know some of you must be thinking this decision was just a pathetic attempt to delay the inevitable, but for me - it was right.
INTRODUCING I decided that the next step in my life would be College. Some may see College as a step back from University, but for me it was the most amazing leap forward. I attended Sir Sandford Fleming College for three semesters. During that time I: helped organize and manage an Aboriginal student-run club, ran a very successful fundraiser for the College’s Aboriginal Student Counselor, Robert Lovelace, and became the first student at Fleming to develop and complete a student placement within the Aboriginal Student Services department. University had given me the theory, but College gave me the practical experience that books simply can’t match. Excelling in the program, due largely to my dedication, hard work and University experience, I graduated with honors. The autumn following my graduation from the SSW program, I began what I thought was the beginning of a career. I worked for Fleming College as a Graduate Recruiter and traveled to high schools across Eastern Ontario to promote postsecondary options available through the College. It was a lonely, but amazing experience. I discovered that the once shy, quiet girl I had been growing up had become a confident woman who could present for an hour to groups larger than one hundred people.
When my contract as a recruiter ended, I was faced with the ‘grown-up life’ financial reality of an impressive student debt and an economic recession. End result: I moved back in with my parents. It wasn’t easy for any of us, especially me. Moving back to a city of over 1 million, after living on my own and in a small city for the past six years, made me feel slightly downhearted. Many fights with my younger brother, and dozens of job applications later I finally landed a job that gave me an experience I will never forget. It wasn’t even close to the pay I was looking for, but sometimes you ‘gotta do what you gotta do’. I worked just under a year as a Youth Worker in a group-home for at-risk adolescent females. Faced with extremely stressful situations on a regular basis, I quickly learned what the advantages are of being a member of a strong team, both personal and professional. I learned a lot, but it wasn’t my dream. Every time I passed my fridge magnet at home I became more and more frustrated. I needed to explore and discover; I didn’t want to regret in twenty years not having taken a big chance in my life.
of opportunity’ compared to the tough Ontario job market. Through a friend, I heard about an employment opportunity at USAY. This position seemed to be made for me; it was everything I had dreamed of. The only problem was that it was on the other side of the country! Once again I sought advice from family, friends and most importantly my loving boyfriend. The consensus was that I should apply for the job, in hopes of discovering what Calgary and USAY had to offer. As luck would have it I landed the position as Program Manager at USAY! Many tears, packed boxes and a few short weeks later I drove out here ready to explore my dreams and discover all the possibilities that were laid out in front of me. I am very excited to be working here in Calgary at USAY, and I hope in time I will get to know some of you readers. While I dearly miss all my friends, family, cat and especially my boyfriend I am so thankful that I took the advice of that little fridge magnet. I know that twenty years from now I won’t be disappointed that I took the chance in Calgary to dream, discover and explore. Thanks Mom.
I‘d been thinking for a while that I should take a chance and move out to Alberta. I had heard that Alberta was the ‘land
NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
17
COOL JOBS PROFILE Jessica Hawryluk Office Administator USAY What is your name and job title? (Where do you work?) How long have you been doing this job? Jessica Hawryluk, Office Administrator here at the Urban Society I was lucky enough to have comfor Aboriginal Youth. pleted a three month internship here at USAY before I was hired What does your job consist on P/T this month. Woo Hoo! of? Why did you get into this I organize and manage administra- type of work? tive duties, and receptionist duties (typing, filing, messages, network- I started out thinking I knew what ing, schedule meetings, ect.) I also I wanted to do but realized during work closely as an assistant to the my stay here at USAY that I enExecutive Director, Managing Edi- joyed being an assistant and lendtor, and Program, Manager here at ing my support. I love organizing USAY/ New Tribe. and multi tasking and making tasks more functional. I think everyone What sort of education do should be able to try different emyou need to get into this ployment options to find the right type of work? fit for them. Most organizations & agencies want a high school diploma or equivalent, previous experience in an office, good communication skills, and strong organizational skills. 18
NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
What is your favorite thing about your job? My favorite part about my position is the people I get to meet and who I am surrounded with ev-
eryday. I also enjoy developing new relationships with youth and other organizations. What are the challenges within your job? I think the biggest challenge is starting out with a new employer and learning all the ropes, and learning all the outlets and inlets to your new workplace. What advice do you have for other Aboriginal youth interested in this position? If you are an individual who works well in a dynamic office environment, enjoys variety & challenge, this will be an excellent opportunity to take your career to the next level! Also get Education, Education, and Education!!! I believe it is the most important asset you can have and your best stepping stone.
HEALTH
WEIGHT LOSS Jolene Frayne-Callihoo Weight loss can be safe and successful if it is done in a healthy way. By eating a healthy diet, following the Canadian Food Guide to Healthy Eating and exercising regularly, you can achieve, maintain, and prevent weight gain successfully. Safe, healthy, and effective methods of weight loss require a healthy diet change and physical activities they enjoy and continue to follow these methods for a lifetime. Following diet books, fad diets, and weight loss programs will sometimes be deemed unsuccessful as well as unhealthy. In the long run, the approach that works best depends solely on the individual’s long term decisions about diet changes and physical activity. Set Attainable Goals If you are attempting to make healthy changes to lose weight, be sure you have realistic, attainable goals you can reach. Start by making small comfortable changes in your life such as: eating a healthy breakfast, choosing low-fat foods, and exercising regularly, keep track of your weight and diet, follow the Canadian Food Guide. By starting off small, you can ensure that you are not setting yourself up for failure. Gradual loss in body fat does not need to entail drastic changes in diet or activity level. You will see changes even if you start off slow. By eliminating only 100 – 200 calories a day, you can expect to lose 10 – 20 lbs in a year. These small changes will help to build up to other goals about your diet and exercise regime and take you to the next step. For example, if you walk for about 20 minutes a day 5 times a week, why not make it 30 the following week? Keep it up and you will be surprised when you start walking obliviously
for 2 hours straight, listening to your IPOD or taking a stroll with friends up and down 17th avenue. Did you know that if you walk at a moderate pace for 2 hours, you can burn up to 550 calories! What To Expect Don’t expect a dramatic sudden change when you start eating healthier and exercising more consistently. Healthy weight loss is gradual but will last for a lifetime if kept up. Remember that the people who lose weight gradually are those who are more likely to keep it off then those who lose weight rapidly. Weight Loss Tips Know you BMI – When you understand how to calculate your BMI (Body Mass Index), you will be able to determine if you are underweight, within the healthy range, overweight, or obese. You can then make the necessary changes required for you to either gain, maintain or lose weight. First, you need to know how much you weight in Kilograms. Second, you will need you height in meters squared. Take your kilograms for your weight and divide it by your height squared. For example: Weight: 58kg Height: 1.66m BMI: (58) weight in kilograms / (1.66 X 1.66) height in meters squared = 21.01 The following list will tell you what your BMI number falls into: Underweight Below 18.5 Average (healthy range) 18.5 – 24.9
Overweight Obese (Class 1) Obese (Class 2) Obese (Class 3)
25 – 29.9 30 – 34.9 35 – 39.9 40 or more
Another easy tip is to substitute steak with healthy fish. Instead of a 6-ounce steak (550 calories), enjoy tuna (250-300 calories) or salmon (350 calories). Seafood is also an excellent source of omega 3 fatty acids; something your body requires for lowering cholesterol and reducing the risk of heart disease. One of my favourites is to eat 5 to 6 small meals of healthy food per day. Instead of the regular 3 meals a day most of us grew up with, why not get rid of the old system and eat all day? Don’t get me wrong though, I don’t mean average meals either. If you only snack when you feel hungry (usually every 2-3 hours), you can easily feel satisfied all day and even eliminate an extra 200 calories from your diet without even realizing it. Try snacking on things such as: 2 apples and ¾ cup of yogurt for breakfast, or enjoy a half of a chicken breast, 1 cup of lettuce and 1 tomato to make a healthy salad for lunch (be mindful of the amount and kind of dressing you choose), or even just a handful of almonds (about 12) – these are perfect to satisfy your hunger and provide protein for energy. Additional Resources Health Canada - Canadian Food Guide to Healthy Eating http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fn-an/food-guide-aliment/ index-eng.php Government of Alberta – Nutrition: Eat Healthy, Live Healthy h t t p: // w w w. h e a l t h . a l b e r t a .c a / h e a l t h - i n f o /
nutrition.html NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
19
MARCIE MEGUINIS: FASHION VISIONS COME TRUE
story by Melanie Parsons fashion show photos by Jonathan Stewart
COVER FEATURE There is nothing more exciting in life then experiencing your own dreams come true. It is equally moving and inspiring to those people sharing this precious moment with you. It is my pleasure to introduce to you someone I believe to be a true leader and visionary in fashion, Marcie Meguinis. Fashion Visions Come True Marcie, also known as Marcie from Sarcee, is an accomplished and talented young woman from the T’suu Tina Nation. At the young age of 20 Marcie constructed a buckskin dress that was to be worn before the Queen of England on her majesty’s historic centennial visit to Alberta. Representing smart, beautiful and talented Aboriginal woman across Canada, Marcie, while wearing the dress she made, narrated the “Royal Visit” which was dedicated to the Queen and her Duke before millions of viewers worldwide. She was also privileged to have performed alongside Breakfast Show host, Dave Kelly, country star, Paul Brant, and The Young Canadians with fellow powwow dancers in the Calgary Stampede Grandstand Show on three separate occasions. She is currently attending Mount Royal University working towards a Bachelor of Arts. While she has set out this goal for herself, her true joy lies in design. Although Marcie is widely known for her seamstress skills in the creation of pow-wow outfits, her design visions do not stop there. Recently, as part of Aboriginal Awareness Month at Mount Royal University, she took part in the
annual fashion show with other First Nations designers. Marcie was able to share her creativity with fellow students and designers and show her true passion for fashion. In the same week, Kim Jev, of Calgary Fashion Media, hosted a fashion show at the trendy Café Koi where Marcie premiered an arousing line of contemporary clothing mixed with the very unique element of First Nations design. Each piece of clothing was a true work of art and demonstrated the skill level and commitment Marcie has to nurturing her gift as a designer. As a guest I was able to observe others in the crowd as they marveled at each piece introduced; Marcie, as have other native designers, broke beyond the stereotype of beads and feathers and reached a new level as a young First Nations designer.
Marcie with her models at fashion show
The Fashionista: Meguinis
Marcie
The shows happened so quickly that I had no time to think about what people’s reactions were. I definitely thought about it beforehand and nearly pulled out of the show knowing that there were going to be people there that would be just as critical of my designs as I am. But, I realized that I had to do it, not only for the people that believed in me, but to build character.” Was it difficult to find the time between research papers and your social life? “I dedicated all my time outside of school to making sure that everything was complete and near perfection. I had one month to design and sew 12 full outfits that were to be showcased at the fashion show. It took a lot of energy out of me and at times I was humbled as friends reminded me that it was my first show, and I really had no formal training. At times it was frustrating not having any free time, but the people around me supported my project and allowed me space and encouraged me. I had no time or energy to maintain my social life for the month that I was working on the pieces, but as I completed sets, it became a worthwhile sacrifice. I knew in my heart I was accomplishing something positive and the friends and family that respected my goal understood that I was absent for a positive purpose“.
How did you feel about seeing your clothing on the runway before a crowd of onlookers?
Have you always known you wanted to be a designer?
“At the time I didn’t really think about it because I was too busy getting the models prepared for their next outfits.
“As a kid I would make my Barbie’s clothes. I used my mom’s scraps to make little skirts and tops but it wasn’t till NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
21
COVER FEATURE much later in life that I realized that it was something I would take seriously. My late Granny, Helen sewed and taught me a few tricks. My dad is also crafty and nimble, as well as my mom and aunties: Karen, Pauline, Donna, Anne and Diane. They all played a part in teaching me something about the various forms of sewing I do today.” What does it take to be a designer? “The most important thing I learned was patience and practice. I think I got the practice part from my dad when he
“I don’t really know what else to expect, besides continuing to make powwow outfits for up and coming dancers, which takes up most of my summer. As for designing clothes, I have been invited to do a fashion show in the fall for a conference in Calgary. Who knows, maybe I will be invited to do others, and doors will open from there. Opportunities like these only present themselves every so often, and when one does, I want to be ready, willing to take it, and use it to my full advantage. Sometimes that means taking risks and sacrificing down time. I am still debating
that creator has given you. Fourth, try to make good constructive use of your time. In other words no body will ever pay you to sit and watch TV, but they will if you provide them a tangible product or skill. I seem rash and materialistic in saying that way, but like Chief Louie would put it “get a job, go to school or go to treatment.” And lastly, my favorite quote that helped me get through some of the most afflicted times in my life: “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is
“F irst, if you enjoy doing something it’s important to practice. It’s the only way you will ever master your craft whether it’s law, hair, or cars.
taught me how to pitch. I never thought I would be good, but we spent hours practicing, when soon enough I was good enough to pitch inside the house, softballs gunning through the kitchen at 75 mph, I began to believe in and really value practice. As for patience, I was on the Tsuu Tina Language-class floor picking up tiny seed beads when I realized that I needed to have patience in order for something not to drive me crazy and give up. The most important attributes to being good at anything, is by far, patience and an understanding of the value of practice. Anyone who sews knows its tedious sitting behind a sewing machine or beading for hours upon hours, although in the end, it is worth it when you see the finished product. “ Where do you see yourself going in fashion in the future?
22
NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
leaving my comfortable nest in Calgary to take formal accredited training. For now it’s a summer job, until I finish at Mount Royal University.” What advice or message do you have for other youth? “First, if you enjoy doing something it’s important to practice. It’s the only way you will ever master your craft whether it’s law, hair, or cars. Secondly, be patient. Doors never open right away and sometimes you have to wait for the opportunity to share your gift with the world, but try to be ready and willing when it does. Thirdly, positive thought - although you might not get along with everybody on a daily basis, it’s still important to pray for them, send them good thoughts so that you don’t carry hard feelings which will prevent you from seeing and sharing the gifts
our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people wont feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We are born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us it is in everyone. And as we let our light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” Nelson Mandela’s Speech (by Marianne Williamson)
COVER*FEATURE
model Hayley George
model Cee Littlelight
model Megan Meguinis
model Crystal BigPlume
COMMUNITY
Conversations with the World: The Lonnie Graham Project
by Melissa Victor photos by Corinne Hamilton
24
NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
COMMUNITY Conversations with the World: The Lonnie Graham Project What was a class project for the University of Calgary students in an Academic writing class was an opportunity to open up and voice their views and concerns regarding western culture, spirituality and family. Visiting from Pennsylvania University, Professor and photographer Lonnie Graham, has travelled across the globe to give you insight to a persons life with a single shot. He had encountered trying to understand how different people really are, but regardless that they are superficially different, everyone had the same thing in common: heritage, place, birth, life and death. We are natures own creatures. Laura Swart teacher of the Academic writing course found an exhibit in San Francisco found the exhibit to be powerful and moving. Laura felt that visual stimulation and pairing with the written word, raising our voices will teach the students the power of research, publication and the written word.
M.V: I was just curious how you saw the project? Nick Mousseau.: I felt that it was inspiring, that it brought back that sense of culture Stacie Canada: I saw the project as a unique expression of everyone’s voice with a link to their culture and family. It gave an insight to everyone’s backgrounds and upbringing. Jacie Alook: It opened up a part that always was there, Spirituality or
Language. Shane Soop: I had heard about the exhibit through Laura, I am not a student in the academic class currently. What I know about Lonnie I knew from the internet. I find the black and white photos fascinating, it gives participants a voice and brings you in his art. M.V.: When you had your picture and interview did you feel vulnerable? N.M.: Not at all. I felt like the whole idea was great and that being able to express our thoughts through visual imagery and
N.M.: I was told that there was almost a whole other side to me from my picture, but to me, I just looked like me. Everyone has their own interpretation of everyone’s picture, so commonalities can be found and compiled to create an understanding from those aspects. S.C.: Well Lonnie took 4 pictures of me and the first 2 (they weren’t used) I came across as very sad and I am not a sad person. J.A.: I became closer to understanding who I am and being able to open up to my spirituality. Even before I questioned spirituality and Culture it was always a lack of and inability, to speak in my mother tongue. S.S: I was able to see the ability to express through some thing I have never done. M.V.: How was your experience with Lonnie?
a quote was very powerful. S.C.: I wouldn’t say I felt vulnerable more nervous because I didn’t know what the questions were going to be. But I didn’t feel vulnerable - I am an open person. J.A.: The finished product makes me feel vulnerable but in a good positive way. S.S.: I didn’t feel vulnerable until after when I had to write because I contributed something with meaning. M.V.: Did you see something different about yourself in the picture?
N.M.: The whole experience with Lonnie Graham was so unreal. To have the privilege to work with such a talented artist, to express my viewpoints on my culture, allowing myself to feel that I can make a different was just amazing. Even if just one person was touched by this exhibit, I feel I had made a change for the better. S.C.: My experience was amazing - it was one of those things that only come once in a life time. S.S.: Very down to earth, humble. I had found that he cared about what I had to say, he wanted to hear what I had to say. This was an ultimate experience that has given the students a chance to raise their voice and be heard through photos and written word. NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
25
Tribe*PROFI LE
C O R Y C A R D I N A L
story and photos by Jonathan Stewart
26
NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
Tribe*PROFI LE He is a familiar face around the Mount Royal University, but there is more behind the easy-going demeanour of the Student’s Association of MRU’s Native Student Centre’s Cory Cardinal. A life of experiences ranging from ranching and riding bulls to gangs fights in downtown Calgary, to finding his own place at the University, gives Cory a unique perspective while working to encourage young Aboriginal youth in their pursuits of a post-secondary education. The sun is belting down on a hot summer day in High Level, Alberta, as a then 19-yearold Cory Cardinal waits for his name to be called at the IRCA’s (Indian Rodeo Cowboys Association) summer Rodeo. The bull that he is riding in the competition has been separated from the rest and put into his own pen. Apparently, the animal keeps killing other bulls he is caged with. The announcer’s voice crackles over the megaphone notifying the excited crowd that the next bull to ride – Hurricane – has killed his last rider the previous weekend. Cory sweats as he realises he is next up to ride the beast. Bull-riding is nothing new to Cory Cardinal who grew up in Tsuu Tina Nations Reserve in southwest Calgary with its long history of ranching culture. Cardinal has been able to conquer many beasts in his life and Hurricane is not going to be anything he can’t face. He’s sustained his fill of injuries – in the ring and out – and made it this far in life without showing too much worse for wear. “At the time it was one of those things that it was all I wanted to be and do (bull riding),” says Cardinal. “I hadn’t thought so much about the future other than that.” Little did Cardinal know that today, Hurricane would end his successful bullriding career and alter his life forever in ways that would drastically change his direction. It would put him on a new path of helping young aboriginal men and women – like himself – in accomplishing their goals whether in school or in the outside world. Cardinal was born in Edmonton, Alberta, in 1972, to Willard and Ethel Cardinal. His
father was Plains Cree and his mother was Tsuu Tina. He was the baby of the family, being the fourth child with three older siblings. At one year of age, Cory moved with his mom and dad and older brother, Earl, and older sisters, Tania and Glena to Tsuu Tina to live with his aging and ill grandmother. Growing up in the untouched wilderness of Tsuu Tina gave Cardinal a love of nature and animals. Horses in particular would be a favourite of Cardinals and he still works with them today. “My father did bareback riding and all his friends and in-laws did rodeo too,” recalls Cardinal, “so I grew up with it around me.” From about the time Cardinal could walk, he was on a horse. “We used to have ponies, and as soon as they could get on, they got on,” remembers Willard Cardinal (Cory’s father) of his children’s love of horses. On summers he would break-in wild horses and then sell them to interested local ranchers and riders when not at rodeos. He would spend days riding through the woodlands of Tsuu Tina on horseback avoiding land mines (never fully cleared from the old Canadian forces base that once operated on a large chunk of the reserve), as well as wild bears and cougars. Cardinal attended elementary through high school at schools not on but close by the reserve, where programs directed to the large Aboriginal population offered Native crafts, culture and history classes. While on a wild horse race with his cousin at a junior rodeo, Cardinal first got on the back of a steer at the age of 10. “He never got on a steer before,” recalls Willard Cardinal. “So I told him, when you get back I don’t want you crying if you get stepped on. He did okay, but he got stepped on when he was getting off, and he’s looking at me like he was ready to cry, and you could see the tear, but he wouldn’t let it go.” The first time Cory Cardinal got on a bull he was 13 years old. He was steer-riding and at a junior rodeo event where he got
the opportunity to ride a bull named Jazz, when there happened to be more bulls than riders. He was able to ride the full eight seconds but was quickly thrown off and winded, which resulted his a few minor stitches. He didn’t ride a bull again until he was 15, when he started to focus on bullriding more seriously. At the height of his career as a semi-pro bull-rider Cardinal was making about 10,000 dollars a season on winnings and endorsements. Some of the top riders were pulling in about $30,000. A season typically runs for a year with the nationals in November. With the gaining popularity of the sport, currently an average bull-rider is making about $100,000 a year with some of the top riders even making a six-figure salary. “One time when we were young, I saw him bull ride and I almost lost my cookies,” recalls Naomi Saulteaux EagleSpeaker who met Cardinal over 20 years ago when they were both in high school. “Cory was in the shoots, getting his rig ready, and the bull would not cooperate. It kept jumping up in the shoot and almost crushing Cory’s legs. He would have to get off the bull and get back on. I was sitting in the stands with his Mom and sisters, and we were all almost screaming and fainting. After his ride, he made jokes about the bull and laughed the situation off. It was quite the ordeal, and made all our hearts race.” When Cardinal turned 16, however, bullriding and the wild carnivores in the forests of Tsuu Tina weren’t exciting enough and with a less-than-desirable income from odd ranch jobs and horse breaking, he turned his attention on quicker and easier ways to make money. ``It was me trying to look at creating a little army... like militant people, I thought I could do something, and on the weekends I would hang out with these guys that were like that and they all sold drugs and weed and hash to people, and I was always broke, so I ended up selling too,” Cardinal explains his entrance into gang life. “They were getting harassed by other little gangs on the street, and every now and then some NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
27
Tribe*PROFI LE Indians would get beat up over here and over there so instead of getting picked on in little groups everyone got together and made one big group called the ‘Scalps’.” The Scalps centered most of their activity on 7th Ave southwest downtown, where after school kids from the suburbs would come downtown in pursuit of weed, hash, or harder drugs. The group even created a 20-page manifesto which Cardinal wrote himself. A code of ethics for the gang, members would be loosely governed by its rules and at meetings a copy of the manifesto would always be present. “A long time ago there was money for each Indian scalp. So you were a walking scalp – just money to somebody,” states Cardinal, “and what they do is every now and then somebody would get the crap beat out of them by a Scalp, so the boys would cut a chunk of their hair off and put it onto their jacket. You would see Indians walking around with little scalps hanging off of their jackets.” The biker gangs: the Grim Reapers and King’s Crew controlled all the narcotics distribution in the city, especially in the downtown, and all the smaller gangs had to go through them to buy large quantities of marijuana and hash. Cocaine was still in its infancy in Calgary at the time and mostly only purchased by the upper class or biker population. The majority of the time, the Scalps were able to operate in a manner that avoided large scale violence, because they were organized, they could keep under the radar of the local authorities. For instance, the higher the rank of a member the less chance of that member getting caught with possession of an illegal substance. Look-outs would be positioned all over the downtown core, and these informers would call up the drug dealers and tell them when and where the police were headed. The low ranking, new members or hangers-on to the gang would serve as a donkey (a drug carrier), and if anyone would be caught, it would be them. That all changed on a summer night in 1989. On 7th Ave, five or six Aboriginal youth were assaulted by a group of Red
28
NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
Dragons (an Asian gang which has since disbanded), and as soon as the news gets out, 20 Scalps run out to confront the then smaller group of Dragons. As the Dragons run to their vehicles for a quick get-a-way the Scalps take revenge by smashing out all the windows of their cars. A then 16-year-old Cory Cardinal was sitting at O’Brien’s Pub on 7th Ave when he hears the news. Everyone knows what is going to happen next. The Dragons will be back, and in greater numbers. Frantically, the Scalps and those siding with them, called everyone they know to get downtown for the inevitable brawl. “Everyone in that pub was up to something shady,” remembers Cardinal. “Everybody phoned and got as many guys as they could, until there were about a hundred of us.” Within a few hours, the Dragons also had their reinforcements (now roughly 200) which came like a horde from a parking lot across the street, as well as filing out of their hang-out, the nearby two-story pool hall down the street from O’Brien’s. Looking like something out of Gangs of New York, a flood of Asian guys pour out of the pool hall, yielding knives, bats, brass knuckles and pool cues. The Scalps now flow out, all armed to the teeth with anything that would constitute as a weapon. The bikers want nothing to do with it; after repeated requests from the Scalps they refuse to get involved as they stay seated – beers in hand – inside O’Brien’s, content to watch the carnage unfold from their front row seats of 7th Ave. It’s around midnight and the two groups are now rushing on foot within a block of one another. “There were just droves of them with their pool cues, and then they had their five or six giant black thug guys that you know they hired, because you know those guys don’t hang out together,” supposed Cardinal. The two gangs clash right in front of O’Brien’s bar and the Dragons quickly surround the Scalps which they have now doubled in size. Cardinal stands back-to-back with a trusted ally as he fights off attacks with a small knife
he is holding. Cardinal is struck a few times with a pool cue but is able to avoid any serious injury. The brutality carries on for a few dramatic minutes but ceases only when law enforcement arrives. “There were just bodies laying everywhere, Asian guys, and pool cues, everything lying all over the ground. The trains and buses couldn’t go and the police had to block off the whole street. I counted about 5 or 6 ambulances I think. I know people got stabbed but not like ‘dead stabbed.’ People probably went home and sowed themselves up,” Cardinal remembers. When the police finally make it to the scene of the mayhem, most of the participants flee the scene leaving four Scalps out cold lying on the street. There is so much debris on 7th Ave that the C-Train cannot even pass until police and emergency crews managed to clean it up. “I don’t know if anybody won but, everybody got beat up good,” Cardinal chuckles as he remembers the pure insanity of the whole incident. After that a lot of the gang disbanded when the police started to focus more on gang activity in the city. Many of the old members went on to join other gangs in different cities, such as Winnipeg, Edmonton or Vancouver, some made their way to the Hell’s Angels and others ended up in jail or dead – murdered, overdosed on drugs or committed suicide. Others became social workers, teachers or even artists. “I found a list while cleaning up piles of old paperwork of 47 names that used to belong to that organization,” Cardinal declares. In 1990, Cardinal realized gang life wasn’t going anywhere, so he enrolled at Mount Royal College in a Poly Sci/Sociology University transfer. At MRC, Cardinal and EagleSpeaker were a part of Four Directions Lodge (now the Native Students Centre at Student’s Association at Mount Royal University) and planned and hosted events that engaged and supported Aboriginal people with many things including; political issues, cultural activities, as well as Native Awareness Month/Week. PART 2 IN JUNE ISSUE OF NTM
GAME*ON
Game Reviews
By Jonas Soosay
HEAVY RAIN
Blood, Intense Violence, Nudity, Sexual Content, Strong Language, Use of Drugs
Heavy rain is one of the diverse games ever to play, you have drama, action, suspense all in one. It’s really kind of a movie, while you play along.You have characters who have a strange bond and that the game play keeps you intrigued until the end. Also the buttons are somewhat different where the controller is being used like a Wii controller. You have to move the controller around during intense cinematic scenes, and the buttons have to pushed accurately too before time runs out. You play different characters during the start till the end, all who have crucial ties in the story line.You have the reporter who is a suffering from insomnia, a Private investigator with an asthama problem, an FBI agent who has a drug addiction, the architect father. The story begins with tragic incidents of drowning kids, and with no leads or who the culprit is. Each character plays their part to find out the truth behind these schemes, and catch the person who is doing all these wrong doings. During the beginning you can start making the game by life choices, with each character you can choose a bad choice or a good choice. Whatever happens during till the end, you are given a choice. In the end the outcome will follow through and whatever you did, the end will come out good or bad. So follow closely what you do, there will be simple life basic skills from day to day life in there. For example: changing a diaper, personal hygiene, playing with the kids, applying first aid. Etc... The graphics and music are so in depth it’s so surreal, you keep guessing whats going to come next. The character models are so accurate, they look like an actual real person. The orchestra keeps you on your toes also, during emotional moments to suspensful moments. The music knows when to tone it down or keep you it guessing whats gonna happen next. I Think Heavy rain is one of those games where it will bring a new generation of gaming, its a must play for any gamer.
YAKUZA 3 Yakuza 3 starts with the main character named Kazuma Kiryu who was the fourth chairman with the local yakuza, but who has been since retired. He now lives on the sandy beaches of Okinawa to take care of the local orphanage, but now with a military base being built where the orphanage is.Kazuma must figure out what is going on, and go back to the Yakuza for help. His father who was murdered in the last yakuza game, has come back and is killing kazumas friends. Kazuma is now in cloud of mystery of who this father look alike must be, and now he has to fight till the end to put the puzzle pieces together. You start with a experience point system, kind of like Final Fantasy. But you can run around and do missions on the side as well. Also like Grand Theft auto, without the cars though. You can play side games ranging from,Karaoke,Bowling,Gambling, fishing,etc...You can also use specific weapons and tools to your arsenal, and you can build up you experience to purchase new skills and become stronger. You have a heat mode which builds up when you fight, when built up you will glow red which enables you to do special moves.You can use heat using your surroundings,weapons, grappling,and even on the bosses too. For example, if you have a bat you can use your heat to kick your opponent to his knees and batter up to cause serious damage. You can run around the local town doing normal things like eating at the restaurant,purchasing items from the store, and playing video games at the local club sega. The cut scenes are really smooth and clear, which and will keep you playing to see more.You can come across people on the street who will randomly want to pick a fight, this is where you can acquire experience points or money(yen) depending on the situation. This means that you will be fighting a lot, which will keep you entertained through the entire course There are weird things that you will come across, which you will find funny but I’ll leave that up to you to find out.Good for gamers with a action/rpg walk around type of player.
Blood, Sexual Themes, Strong Language, Use of Alcohol, Violence
NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
29
BEATS
Turn up the Volume By Katty Jo Rabbit
NevershoutNever What is love? With all the Beiber fever that is spreading itself like a bad case of oral herpes, it is not surprising that more and more skinny boys with thick hair and acoustic alternative style are popping up in the most vulnerable places. Here is Christofer Drew, a young man of nineteen or so, who sings like he has no testes and writes like he is younger then he actually is, with the songs The Past and What is love. If you like Beiber then good for you, here is another teeny bopper to fall in love with, because his song Jane Doe could be about you, and really it is kind of nice to listen to music with downy fresh appeal, during the nice weather we have been experiencing and hopefully it inspires you to buy the album. Because even though Drew claims he only writes music to write music, he definitely needs you to buy his album so that he may remain stylish and alternative. Actually it is not all that bad, and please do not hold this against anyone who might enjoy this record, because really it incorporates all the universal feelings we have all had at one time, rejection from family members, smoking at a young age, melancholy of knowing you love someone who does not know your alive; all while being poppin’ fresh, poetic and youthful. So if you do not like Justin Beiber then good for you, because unlike Mr. Beiber this boy can play a ukulele and his own songs. And there are only eight tracks on this album, so like it or not, this is a trend that is going to stick because this guy has been around for some time making EP’s since 2008. So like herpes there is no cure, and the only way to deal is to accept it for what it is.
Marina and the Diamonds Family Jewels “I‘m Marina. You are the diamonds” Definitely a play of words that makes you feel special in a not so special way, because it not only sets herself out of the group, it collectively groups us all together, meaning she is on another level of existence and so be it, because really thirteen songs, of confusing melds of pop and 80’s synths vocalizing gets repetitive. Do you think she is really this weird and loveable? It appears so, hopefully she is not as condescending as she seems, wait never mind, she is. You can hear it in her lyrics. You can also hear her fighting within herself to become something she is not, and then wanting it more then ever, so what do you want? What style are you? No use asking her, because she most likely does not even know for herself, and that is where the intrigue lies, you do not know what to expect, and from this Greek woman, you do not get what you want. What you do get is five songs of really great song writing and composure, and then eight songs of ridiculous vocals and weird styling’s, personally it feels like your stuck in a room with an self proclaimed artist who does not know what kind of artist they are, and they do not want to stick to one style to pigeon hold themselves, incase the mass population decides they like something else. If your going to be someone, at least let it be yourself. All to their own, check out the songs, I am not a robot, Mowglies road, Numb, Hollywood and Obsessions, you will not be disenchanted, because she does not sound like anything else but herself in these songs, and really that is all an audience wants.
30
NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
BEATS
Music You Can Feel In Your Toes Darwin Deez Self Titled This has been an album that has been under the surface of mass production, for a while. Like a gemstone you do not want anyone else to see or listen too, because you know all the cheesy and uninformed “scene-sters” will only make it trendy until the next latest fad will come around. It was hard for yours truly to give up and give in and expose the music. It has been under wraps, but there is no bigger sin, then keeping good music to yourself, and Mr. Deez deserves better then that, and truly this review will expose him to the true fans, because the only way to get your hands on a copy is to make the attempt. Check out his MySpace page to sample and mail order the album. The effort will not go unnoticed; as when you get the long awaited album, there is some extra bonus material included that we will not discuss to keep you all wondering for yourselves. On that note, the first listen is a great one, you get this ideal that all the songs were done at home in his basement, or he was just bored one day and decided to get up and make music, the lyrics are funny and dark and whimsical. They really give the listener the feeling of being one with the group. Even though he kind of looks like a sideshow bob wannabe, he is really cooler then his appearance, his videos are home made and there is even a choreographed dance to one of his songs. Oh to be New York Indie cool. Too bad, we are all not as open as he is. Constellations, Radar Detector and The Suicide Song are personal favorites, which you definitely want to add to your iPod for this summer, because nothing makes great summer moments better then having great music to recall them too.
She & Him Volume Two With a voice as thick as molasses, a face of an actress and a composer who makes it work, sending out an old sound with a new meaning comes easy for the actress gone songwriter. Who needs labels, when you’re as talented and interesting as Zooey Dechanel and M.Ward. Who makes music of She & Him work on two levels, because they do not use their celebrity to force the music into the ears of the masses, instead they sit back, indifferently and interestingly and wait for you to discover what they have to offer on your own. Which is nice, romantic and country infused, on the other level it is music that has nothing to do with the relationship of the mentioned to other celebrity collaborations, it is all their own, even the covers they do have that down home country feel with a zest of pop infused indie. It feels almost wrong to give those labels, as it they really should not be given as the music speaks for itself, check out In the sun, Sing, and the dreamy If you can’t sleep. For those of you who are a familiar with Skeeter Davis, listen to Gonna get along without you now, it will bring back the fond memories of the 70’s. Set to play different shows then Dechanels husband who is also a member of Death Cab For Cutie, will make for an interesting time, as he is there to always support this budding singer, who knows maybe she will change into this indie-diva who will wear revealing clothes and get extremely drunk on stage. One show that should not be missed is the ever famous Sasquatch Musical Festival held in Gorge Washington. Either way do not deprive yourself of good music. NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
31
LEGEND
LEGENDS A girl of great beauty, the Chief’s daughter, was worshipped by many young handsome men of the Piegan tribe. But she would not have any one of them for her husband. One young tribesman was very poor and his face was marked with an ugly scar. Although he saw rich and handsome men of his tribe rejected by the Chief’s daughter, he decided to find out if she would have him for her husband. When she laughed at him for even asking, he ran away toward the south in shame. After traveling several days, he dropped to the ground, weary and hungry, and fell asleep. From the heavens, MorningStar looked down and pitied the young unfortunate youth, knowing his trouble. To Sun and Moon, his parents, MorningStar said, “There is a poor young man lying on the ground with no one to help him. I want to go after him for a companion.” “Go and get him,” said his parents. Morning-Star carried the young man, Scarface, into the sky. Sun said, “Do not bring him into my lodge yet, for he smells ill. Build four sweat lodges.” When this was done, Sun led Scarface into the first sweat lodge. He asked Morning-Star to bring a hot coal on a forked stick. Sun then broke off a bit of sweet grass and placed it upon the hot coal. As the incense arose Sun began to sing, “Old Man is coming in with his body; it is sacred,” repeating it four times. Sun passed his hands back and forth through the smoke and rubbed them over the face, left arm, and side of Scarface. Sun repeated the ceremony on the boy’s right side, purifying him and
32
NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
removing the odors of earthly people. Sun took Scarface into the other three sweat lodges, performing the same healing ceremony. The body of Scarface changed color and he shone like a yellow light. Using a soft feather, Sun brushed it over the youth’s face, magically wiping away the scar. With a final touch to the young man’s long, yellow hair, Sun caused him to look exactly like Morning-Star. The two young men were led by Sun into his own lodge and placed side by side in the position of honor. “Old Woman,” called the father. “Which is your son?” Moon pointed to Scarface, “That one is our son.” “You do not know your own child,” answered Sun. “He is not our son. We will call him Mistaken-for-Morning-Star,” as they all laughed heartily at the mistake. The two boys were together constantly and became close companions. One day, they were on an adventure when Morning-Star pointed out some large birds with very long, sharp beaks. “Foster-Brother, I warn you not to go near those dangerous creatures,” said Morning-Star. “They killed my other brothers with their beaks.” Suddenly the birds chased the two boys. Morning-Star fled toward his home, but Foster-Brother stopped, picking up a club and one by one struck the birds dead. Upon reaching home, Morning-Star
excitedly reported to his father what had happened. Sun made a victory song honoring the young hero. In gratitude for saving Morning-Star’s life, Sun gave him the forked stick for lifting hot embers and a braid of sweet grass to make incense. These sacred elements necessary for making the sweat lodge ceremony were a gift of trust. “And this my sweat lodge I give to you,” said the Sun. Mistaken-for-MorningStar observed very carefully how it was constructed, in his mind preparing himself to one day returning to earth. When Scarface did arrive at his tribal village, all of his people gathered to see the handsome young man in their midst. At first, they did not recognize him as Scarface. “I have been in the sky,” he told them. “Behold me, Morning-Star looks just like this. The Sun gave me these things used in the sweat lodge healing ceremony. That is how I lost my ugly scar.” Scarface explained how the forked stick and sweet grass were used. Then he set to work showing his people how to make the sweat lodge. This is how the first medicine sweat lodge was built upon earth by the Piegan tribe. Now that Scarface was so very handsome and brought such a great blessing of healing to his tribe, the Chief’s beautiful daughter became his wife. In remembrance of Sun’s gift to Scarface and his tribe, the Piegans always make the sweat lodge healing ceremony an important part of their annual Sun Dance Celebration.
COMMU NITY
THE LIVE ENTITY OF RACISM by Charles Atlas Sheppard “I gave ‘em a sword. And they stuck it in, and they twisted it with relish. And I guess if I had been in their position, I’d have done the same thing” Richard M. Nixon, U.S. President 1969-1974 “The hatred you’re carrying is a live coal in your heart - far more damaging to yourself than to them.”- Lawana Blackwell (American Writer) We can learn a lot from the downfallen. Nixon was very much the quintessential polished politician: intellectual and verbose with a long list of accomplishments but he made a lot of enemies along the way many of whom relished his fall from grace. David Ahenakew was one of the most inspiring of First Nations Leaders. He too experienced a quick fall from the pinnacles of grace after a lifetime of grace. Take a quick Google glance at all the obituaries of David Ahenakew on the Internet. All lead off with his controversial antiSemitic remarks made at a Saskatoon press conference in 2002. There is only mere mention of his accomplishments as a First Nations leader but they are all glossed over in an obligatorily manner. Even his wikipedia entry goes into greater detail about his fall from grace than his accomplishments. Perhaps that was David Ahenakew’s unwitting and unintended final lesson to all of us First Nations people? Our integrity, our accomplishments, our honour and reputation is only as good as our last public act. Certainly his anti-Semitic remarks are deplorable especially coming from a man representing a target group caught in the daily struggle against racism. Many people distanced themselves from him after he made those remarks. Many more castigated him in the public press.
to peer beyond their own misconceptions. We expect our leaders to lead by example. We expect them to possess integrity and humanitarianism. When they stray from those ideals the opposition are quick to respond with harsh criticism. It is an unfortunate reality that mainstream society will spotlight every blemish in the First Nations. It’s on the nightly news: election ballot box stuffing, crime statistics, financial mismanagement, and assorted negativity ad nauseum. This happens in mainstream culture as well but it seems to be far more horrific and news worthy when Natives do it. Ahenakew was a man of action. He believed we should take responsibility for our own rights and fight for them. He also believed we should take responsibility for our own actions. I met him in the early 80’s when the Saskatchewan Indian Federated College was just coming into it’s own and gaining an international reputation as valued educational institution. S.I.F.C. was something he fought hard for and believed in. He was a great believer in education and recognized the flaws in the education system that prevented indigenous people from graduating high school and/or even attempting a post-secondary education. Ironic that a man with such strong convictions should try to distance himself from his own words, perhaps not. He understood the strength of words and the weight they carry. I think he knew that his words would affect his people negatively in the public eye. There is a world of difference in how the mainstream media approaches aboriginal topics compared to First Nations media. Outsiders looking in will never see the full picture but then again they never attempt
Go to the Globe and Mail website or the CBC news website and read the comments section. There you will find a crosssection of where First Nations people lie in the national consciousness. It is not a pretty picture. Racism runs rampant in the comments section. Racists love to hear it when other people make racist comments because it rationalizes their own racism. They refuse to understand the difference between blatant racism and frustrated reaction to 500+ years of oppression. Ahenakew was fantastic fodder for them. The rising politically correct movement of the 80’s made it increasingly difficult for people to tell racist jokes in public. People didn’t stop telling jokes in bars no more than they stopped smoking in public; they merely did so in private company filling their own rooms with their own acrid stench. Racial invective is like second-hand smoke, eventually you are going to infect someone else with that bad air and you will be banished like a leper. What is the lesson then? Keep it to yourself? “Be careful fighting monsters lest you become one yourself”, as Nietzsche once stated? No, I think the lesson is this: Racism is a very live entity capable of biting the hand that feeds it. Tolerance is the only safeguard against racism. I don’t subscribe to the prevailing argument that two wrongs make a right; just because they are racist it is okay for us to be racist too. That argument is used against us all the time. It has to stop somewhere.
NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
33
COMMU NITY
FNUC CONTROVERSY continued...
by Charles Atlas Sheppard photos by Sharon Leslie Acoose FNUC Update “A right delayed is a right denied” – Martin Luther King In the continuing saga of the First Nations University, students are still battling their nemesis Chuck Strahl for continued operational funding. Rob Norris of the Saskatchewan Government agreed to re-instate 5.2 million in funding to the university whereas Chuck Strahl of the Federal Government offered $3 million to finish off the year. Very little has changed in regards to funding in the last month. The beleaguered university is still facing campus closings, massive layoffs, and leaving many students unable to finish what they started. Enrollment has declined over the last 5 years. Students are reluctant to enroll because they are afraid of not being able to complete a degree at the university. It’s not a simple matter of switching universities to complete an English degree. Some language courses, for instance, are unique to the First Nations University curriculum. The First Nations University Student’s Association has been protesting their
34
NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
plight by staging a “live-in” at the campus. It’s an age-old form of passive resistance that hearkens back to the 70’s when Native protestors would stage “Sit-Ins” at Indian Affairs offices. The students have been sleeping in the
the Federal Government would provide $3 million in conditional funding to the university to get them through until the end of August. This falls incredibly short of the $7.2 operational funding needed for the entire year. April 1st Shauneen Pete is appointed FN-Univ President for a sixmonth term. She officially takes over for Charles Pratt who was fired on March 16th. She was originally the Academic Vice-President beginning in the spring of 2007 but was fired by Pratt in January of 2009 for an “internal personnel matter”. April 14th
gymnasium since March 26th with over 30 students participating. Here’s a quick recap of events in the last month… April Fool’s Day Eve On March 30th Chuck Strahl announced
Teachers and students hold a community barbeque replete with sharp satirical entertainment and pointed petitions. They also serve up hundreds of burgers and hotdogs. Meanwhile back in the lecture hall… Professors and instructors hold a “TeachIn” at the university. Faculty lectured on a wide range of topics often taking critical aim on Chuck Strahl.
COMMU NITY April 21 It is announced that Murray Westerlund, Senior Financial Officer, has returned to his job after being fired in December of 2009 for criticizing
to walk the final 7 kilometres to the Regina Campus. Saskatoon students joined them in a sleepover at the “Live In” before heading back.
The
annual seminar was held at the University of Regina and hosted by the Aboriginal Student Centre.
April 23 Council of the Canadian Association of University Teachers lifted the censure
Hopefully
they originally imposed on the FNUC over 18 months ago. The censure was a form of boycott (akin to being voted off the island). National and International staff will be allowed to accept appointments at the university and attend academic conferences hosted by FNUC. had demanded governance that was threatening academic freedom. The Association carries a lot of clout representing over 120 universities and colleges across Canada and 65,000 academic staff. The censure eventually led to funding being cutoff provincially and federally.
reforms
of
April 24-26 40-50
Ovide Mercredi, former Grand Chief of the A ssembly of First Nations praised the students in a keynote address at the National Aboriginal Leadership Seminar held in Regina. ““It’s a big thing that you stood up for the rights of your people”
senior management at the university. Students consider it a positive move in the right direction in proving governance problems are well in the past.
CAUT
April 28th
students from the Saskatoon Campus embarked upon a First Nations Solidarity Walk to Regina to raise awareness . Regina students joined the march at the outskirts of the city
by the time you read this new developments will be positive and on the right path in securing a strong education future for the students .
During the celebratory speeches back at the Campus , Cadmus Delorme , Student Association President, announced their next step is to persuade students to enroll in the campus by going on a recruitment drive of enlisting 5 students each.
Shauneen Pete
has been a strong voice and advocate for the University even before she was appointed as President. She has attended rallies and protests and lent her voice in the crisis . A s this issue goes to print she is still negotiating with the Federal Government for ongoing annual funding to keep the university alive.
As
things are , the First Nations University of Canada is still in a crisis situation. R e g a i n i n g funding is only but a small step in reclaiming the greatness that once was . B ut students are fighting for every second of that Happily Ever After ending.
NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
35
Meet You at the Small Screen
SMA LL*SCREEN
By Elodie Caron
Starring (the voices of): Bill Hader, Anna Faris, James Caan, Andy Samberg, Mr. T, Benjamin Bratt, Neil Patrick Harris, Bruce Campbell Flint Lockwood (Hader) is a nerdy kid with permanent shoes, a successful but flawed science experiment. His great ambition is to be an inventor and change the world. He mostly just terrorizes the people of Swallow Falls, the island where they live. One day, Flint invents a machine that creates its own food, a development that he knows will win the hearts of his neighbors and friends, and for a while, it works. Until something goes terribly wrong. I liked this movie, it’s clever and sweet and for an animation, well-drawn. A good family movie, although you may have to explain to your kids why they can’t have their very own jell-o palaces. Bonus points, also, for casting Neil Patrick Harris as Flint’s best friend, Steve the monkey.
Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs
3.5 out of 5.
Starring Jeremy Renner, Anthony Mackie, Brian Geraghty, Evangeline Lilly Katherine Bigelow will probably win the Oscar for directing this one, and she deserves it. There have been a lot of movies about the Iraq War, and I’m not generally a fan of war movies at all, but this one stands out. The opening scene is so heart-in-your-throat tense that it’s impossible to look away, and it barely slows down from there. Jeremy Renner plays SFC William James, an ordinance disposal expert who’s probably been in the middle of it for too long. He’s detached and dangerous, taking the kind of risks that have somehow not gotten him killed yet, but probably only because it’s what he might secretly want. He’s partnered with Sergeant JT Sanborn (Mackie) and Spc. Owen Eldridge (Geraghty), neither of whom know what to do with the loose cannon they’re stuck with.
The Hurt Locker
There are a couple of predictable scenes that break the tension a little, but then something crazy happens, like an extended shootout in the middle of the desert that goes so long that everybody gets dehydrated and someone nearly falls asleep at the trigger of their long-range missile gun, and you’re back to chewing on your sleeve and wishing you had covered your eyes. It’s an exhausting pace, but it’s effective, and it’s propped by excellent performances from everyone on the screen. 4.5 out of 5.
Ed.Note: This review was actually done last month but was bumped for April. Elodie correclty pedicted the oscar win. ;-) NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
37
U AROUND TOWN
38
NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
U AROUND TOWN
NEW TRIBE MAY 2010
39