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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR An Indigenous Lifestyles Magazine for Everyone Vol. 3 No. 10 - February 2015
Remembering one of our own
REZX PRODUCTION TEAM #10 PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Chris Tyrone Ross
With our first issue of 2015, we are starting the year on a sad note with the deaths of some very influential artists; Michele Sereda, Michael Green, Narcisse Blood and our very own, Lacy Morin-Desjarlais, who all died tragically in a car accident this past February just north of Regina, SK. We wanted to spend most of this issue remembering them for their contributions to the Indigenous arts community worldwide. They were some of the most established and up and coming artists in their own right, but would often come together to do great things like going to work with youth at a First Nations community on that fateful morning of February 10th, 2015. Although, the cover for this issue features only an image of Lacy Morin-Desjarlais, as we wanted to do our own tribute because “she was one of ours” as RezX writer Bill Stevenson put it. But Lacy was more than just writer and reporter for RezX, she was an artist who shared her gift with so much others. In her last two years, she moved back home to Saskatchewan from British Columbia and immediately got involved in the local arts community. She was a free spirit who roamed from place to place blessing others with her creativity, generosity and artistry and made many friends along the way. Here at RezX, we were just happy to be part of her life. She joined RezX in the fall of 2013 and immediately began covering stories in the Indigenous arts community. Her first assignment was on The Seven
exhibit at the Mackenzie Art Gallery featuring seven of the most influential Indigenous artist of all time. one of which was Norval Morrisseau. Ironically he would also be her final assignment, covering the recent Norval Morrisseau exhibit at the Plain Red Arts Exhibit at First Nations University of Canada. Rarely do we get to cover ourselves in our magazine – because we are usually the ones behind the story, but if there’s any regret I have, it’s not covering Lacy on her artistic journeys in her last years, because she was well on her way to take on the world. I remember at one of our writers’ meetings last year, she spoke up and said, “We should have a girl on the cover, it’s been nothing but guys the last couple issues.” So we tried, we made the effort, but again things happened behind the scenes that forced us instead to go with covers featuring men for the last couple issues. Even this issue was supposed to feature a female Chief on the cover, but when things didn’t work out, we were stuck without a cover story ...and then the tragic news hit and put everything on hold. After talking with my staff and getting permission from her family and parents, I knew what had to be done. Lacy would finally get her cover story, and it would be about her legacy and her influence as an artist. In this issue, we also paid tribute to the other artists lost from those people who knew them best. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to pay our respects and honour them in the best way we know how – through the arts and through writing, hiy, hiy!
Quentin Karmark - Layout Chris Tyrone Ross - Cover
REZX WRITERS Anonymousx, Bill Stevenson, Chris Tyrone Ross, Jay Bird, Lacy Morin-Desjarlais, Shane Bellegarde, Shauneen Pete
REZX PHOTOGRAPHERS Bill Stevenson Ryan Peterman
REZX EDITORIAL BOARD Bill Stevenson, Chris Tyrone Ross, Jay Bird, Lani Elliot, Shane Bellegarde, Shauneen Pete
GUEST CONTRIBUTORS Blaire Russell, Michael Dubois, Trudy Stewart, Lauren Czuba, Julianne Beaudin- Herney, Andi Mitchell, Brooke P, Curtis Ahenakew,
CONTACT INFO: Business: 306.999.3055 Please E-mail for our mailing address E-mail: rezxeditor@gmail.com Website: www.rezxmag.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/RezXMag Facebook: www.facebook.com/rezxmagazine
REZX MAGAZINE RezX Magazine is a division of RezX Multi-Media Company (founded in 2004) and is published 6 times per year (bi-monthly). RezX is distributed province wide in 3 major cities of Saskatoon, Regina, Prince Albert and to all 75 First Nations and 11 Tribal Councils including 11 First Nations Community Schools of Treaty 4 Education Alliance (FHQTC). Digital Edition: 5000+ views Print Circulation: 7000 copies
DISCLAIMER Any content, images, graphics are hereby copyright to RezX Multi-Media Company, (unless otherwise noted) and cannot be reproduced, reprinted, republished or altered in anyway without the expressed written permission of the Publisher.
Chris Tyrone Ross Editor-In-Chief
ABOUT THE COVER:
INSIDE ISSUE NO. 10: February 2015
COVER: Lacy Morin-Desjarlais GRAPHER: Blaire Russell GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Chris Tyrone Ross
Page 16: A Proud Generation Page 9: MMA Champ Pasapa
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Page 13: Artists Remembered
HOROSCOPES
Indian Horoscopes: Find online exclusives @www.rezxmag.com REZX ‘BEHIND THE SCENES’ VIDEO Interested in what goes on behind the scenes here at RezX, well we posted some video for one of our regular shoots at RezX Magazine and Leftboot Photography.
MONTHLY INDIAN HOROSCOPES For months that we do not publish, Bill Stevenson continues his monthly horoscopes here under the “Horoscopes” section, so make sure to visit us to find what’s in store for you every month
REZX RADIO - THE SILENT X PODCASTS Beginning in 2015, our RezX radio section will feature a variety of podcasts, interviews and music. But to kick things off early, we will post a new podcast from RezX blogger and writer, Cowboy Smithx called “The Silent X”. Now it’s important to note that The Silent X is not, in anyway part of RezX, as it is Cowboy’s own exciting new venture in on-line radio. We are just proud to have his permission to post all his podcasts that feature exclusive interviews with Indigenous filmmakers, actors and more – check them out yourself, some are already posted!
READ EVERY SINGLE STORY, INTERVIEW, FEATURE IN REZX EVER! Beginning with this issue, we will begin to publish every story from the magazine on the website so that you can share it with your social media networks. C
SUBSCRIBE TO REZX ON-LINE Interested in subscribing to RezX for your home, office or school, you can now fill out a subscription form on-line at; http://www.rezxmag.com/subscribe/
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Valentines Edition By Bill Stevenson JANUARY Kisê-pîsim – The Great Moon – Deer
JULY Paskowi-Pîsim – The Moulting Moon – Coyote
Winter is a wonderful time for outdoor activities, you can go tobogganing, skiing, ski-dooing, ice fishing and so much else! And while you’d rather wait inside getting hot chocolate and marshmallows ready for those other people to come in – it might be time to consider getting out there yourself.
Call of War and Vice Town and Sport games on the TV have their time and place but you ain’t going to meet no valentine on there! Get out, go to town, play pool, darts, foosball, golf...anything! Even try going to bingo: there’s always someone looking around for a new snag there!
FEBRUARY Mikisiwi-pîsim – The Eagle Moon – Eagle
AUGUST Ohpahowi-pîsim – The Flying Up Moon – Mouse
If your idea of a romantic Valentines is a microwave dinner, a birthday candle and a Netflix marathon, you might be a dedicated bachelor. At least join some Facebook groups to discuss some of the shows you watch, it might be the baby steps you need to the start of some serious online loving
Sitting at home sucking back the hard stuff is exactly the reason why you are single. Sure you get a partner this weekend and that month but the reality becomes people whispering about your drinking addiction. You are young. Look in the mirror and realize you are worth so much more than that bottle.
MARCH Niski-pîsim – The Goose Moon – Cougar
SEPTEMBER Nôcihitowi-pîsim – The Mating Moon – Salmon
At the next community bingo fundraiser make sure and get your famous indian taco’s there to help raise money! Not only are you helping a great cause out but many members from other communities will come to know your wonderful tacos as well! And make sure to point with your lips lots, you never know who is checking you out!
Making bannock is the way to a partner’s heart! It doesn’t matter if you can cook a full course meal if you cannot do the finisher of bannock! If you are always wondering why your partners are leaving you in a hurried panic, it’s because you don’t make bannock…
APRIL Ayikî-pîsim – The Frog Moon – Beaver A quick push start, a mostly full of air tire, and a radio is all you need for a romantic night out this Valentines. But don’t forget the air freshener and Febreeze it before you go pick them up. Trust me, it will make the romantic night much more enjoyable for both of you.
MAY Sâkipakâwi-pîsim – The Budding Moon – Bear Don’t forget while dabbing at your favorite bingo hall that there’s always another bingo hall with more prizes, jackpots and dabbing partners just beyond the rez line! Why not take a pal or two and make a trip out of it! Who knows? Maybe your bingo playing, fry bread making, lip pointer will be dabbing up a storm waiting for you!
JUNE Pâskâwihowi-pîsim – The Hatching Moon – Thunderbird Babe. That word gets you into as much trouble as it keeps you out of it. True it’s a name anybody can answer to and many people do, but those times when you use babe because you can’t remember their name? Step up your game and start settling down with one valentine this year.
OCTOBER Pinaskâwi-pîsim – The Migrating Moon – Turtle Slow cooked moose meat stew has been bringing our families together for generations and generations. Why not make up a large batch and host a Valentines social to help single people meet single people who are not their cousins. Try holding it before a community bingo so any new snags can try a first date and the unsnagged have another chance.
NOVEMBER Iyikopiwi-pîsim – The Frost Moon – Wolf If you met them at a round dance, you’re going to lose them at a round dance. But if you lose them maybe that’s not so bad: remember, if you love someone, let them go - if they come back, no one else wanted them either.
DECEMBER Pawâcakinasîsi-pîsim – The Frost Exploding Trees Moon – Spider Yes, your partner wants those concert tickets. If anything was ever going to cement your relationship to each other it would be your shared love of live music. Don’t be afraid of what you’ll miss out on because of the cost of those tickets, think about the gain!
For more Indian Horoscopes every month, check out: http://www.rezxmag.com/category/horoscopes
INDIGENOUS NEWS & OPINION
Indigenous News & Opinion The views expressed here are those of columnist Jay Bird and do not represent RezX as a company or magazine.
By Jay Bird
Anti-Terror Bill Protects Canada? http://is.gd/GGONKT
“Canadians, Harper added, understand that “their freedom and their security more often than not go hand in hand.” The Conservatives are pushing through a new anti-terror bill in the guise it protects you from terrorism. The bill allows access to your personal information, right to detain you without proper legal proceedings, and 5 year prison sentences. So how does this effect Indigenous people? Who is to say you’re not supporting (their definition of) terrorism by supporting Indigenous actions in Canada? Indigenous people are opposed to Canadian encroachment on treaty rights – and this is a long running issue. Would Dudley George have been considered a terrorist? How about Oka? INM?
#MMIW: Look At Your Men http://is.gd/OyiIkB
“The head of the Assembly of First Nations is imploring native men who have “lost their way” to help prevent the deaths and disappearances of aboriginal women”
Indigenous Advocate for Children in Manitoba http://is.gd/R7dkfY
“The minister noted that 87% of children in CFS care are aboriginal, up from the previous estimate of 70%.” Manitoba launched an inquiry into why Indigenous people were so unevenly targeted by Social Services. They created a report with 62 recommendations to address this issue and hired
an Indigenous child advocate. What they found is that Indigenous history in Canada is not over but enduring; the legacy of its brutality has shaped a system that benefits from Indigenous poverty. Well, at least they are trying to address this issue, which is more than can be said about the Federal Govt in Canada.
AFN National Chief Perry Bellegarde met with Stephen Harper only to find out the obvious, there will be no inquiry into Missing & Murdered Aboriginal Women. Perry then turns his sites on Indigenous men to clean up their act, be protectors of women, and get back to traditional values. Oddly, this comes from a man who could not secure the optimum protection for Indigenous women though the form of a national inquiry, which was again denied by Harper.
First Peoples, 2nd Class Treatment http://is.gd/rBMhX5
“Research shows that racism against Indigenous peoples in the health care system is so pervasive that people strategize around anticipated racism before visiting the emergency department” A new report ‘First Peoples – Second Class Treatment’ was released early February and is showing how racism is embedded in the health care system. They have found the differential treatment Indigenous people receive at hospitals is nationwide, not localized. This relates to the idea Canadians carry certain stereotypes about Indigenous people which affects the service they receive. One only need review the Brian Sinclair case in Winnipeg to see its extreme danger.
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SASKATCHEWAN NEWS BRIEFS A new political activism group has developed named Indigenous Vote Sask 2015, started by Glenda Abbott and Melody Wood, both Saskatchewan residents. The focus of the organization stated on their Facebook page is “(to be) a non-partisan effort to mobilize the First Nations, Métis and Inuit vote in Saskatchewan.“ The political will of the movement is to mobilize Indigenous people throughout Saskatchewan to vote in their local ridings in hopes of reflecting candidates with their world views.
Revenue Sharing Myth http://is.gd/oKGUWc “Only the Saskatchewan government has given an unqualified no to resource revenue sharing” Coates noted in the Star Phoenix. Ken Coates has written a new paper addressing resource revenue sharing with Aboriginal communities in Saskatchewan called ‘Sharing the Wealth’. In the paper Coates mentions that two decades ago revenue sharing with First Nation Bands was not viewed as economically feasible but in the 21st century it may be the cost of succeeding at modern business.
How will Indigenous Vote Sask 2015 succeed at capturing the Indigenous vote? Participation and a grassroots effort in urban locales like Prince Albert, Saskatoon, and Regina. The goals are to get voters registered, educational material out about each candidate, and replace candidates via a bloc vote. A bloc vote is when a community decides to vote in the same direction to ensure a candidate is elected. This group will help communities determine the best candidate based on their Indigenous rights stance.
http://is.gd/oUZ2Fz “There are particular ridings in Saskatchewan where aboriginal people have a certain amount of political clout” (Joyce Green, U of R, Leader Post)
This sentence from Mayor Atchison drew heavy criticism in the Aboriginal community from chiefs, to professors, to a member of the University of Saskatchewan Student’s Union. Each and every person sharing the same sentiment “we can’t be satisfied with ‘not as bad’ or comparing ourselves to other communities” (Max Fineday, Star Phoenix, ‘We Can’t Be Satisfied With Not As Bad’). Saskatoon Indigenous residents do not share Atchison’s denial but do share his optimism.
Regina Police Force Accountability http://is.gd/6iDccv “Many people in Regina are concerned about recent events and what appears to be a lack of police accountability including racial profiling, unfair treatment of Indigenous peoples…”
Racism: When 2nd Place Isn’t a Good Spot http://is.gd/x46TkF “The article also paints a bleak picture of racism in Saskatchewan, which came in at a close second” (Kim Smith, Global News) The mayor of Saskatoon, Don Atchison, recently downplayed racism in SK by saying ‘we’re eons ahead of Winnipeg’. The statement was meant to evoke a pride in Saskatoon as a city moving forward on the issue of racism. But is it?
Indigenous Vote SK 2015
the country” (Nancy Mcdonald, Mclean’s: Welcome to Winnipeg: Where Canada’s Racism Problem is at its Worst).
In 2015 Saskatchewan potentially has two ridings with Indigenous nominees, Liberal candidates Marcel Isnana in Regina-Qu’Appelle and Lawrence Joseph in Desnethé Missinippi Churchill River, the latter still seeking the party nomination.
What is resource revenue sharing? In the paper Coates mentions “Resource revenue sharing calls for provincial and territorial governments to give a portion of the money they take in from development projects with Aboriginal groups. This is in addition to any deals private companies negotiate with them.” This would split up earned revenue from a Provincial project into all First Nations bands equally and not just those band(s) with lands being used, as is done within private company agreements. The paper points out modern success stories nationally in places like BC, Northern Quebec, and the Yukon, showing this model can work. Saskatchewan, by not implementing a resource revenue sharing model, could leave itself open to legal challenges that arise from treaties tying up projects for longer than anticipated. Coates notes many recommendations in his paper about implementation best practices for this model to work in Saskatchewan.
NEWS
Atchison’s statement is in fact false according to the statistics used in the McLean’s article. Saskatchewan was almost neck and neck with Manitoba in most categories on racism and in two particular ones they lead: (a) believing stereotypes and (b) not trusting Indigenous people. In all honesty, McLean’s mentions these 2 provinces as joined at the hip “In poll after poll, Manitoba and Saskatchewan report the highest levels of racism in
These are the words from a group of Regina citizens concerned about police officers use of force and abuse of the law. They have taken to Facebook to rally concerned citizens and are holding local meetings about the issue. They have decided to block all media and police contact at these meetings. To this date they have held two events with a third one on the way. The group was sparked by the case of Brooke Watson who claims to have been threatened by police and driven out of Regina in winter weather. It also took note of the racial profiling Simon Moccasin claims to have experienced. They are hoping to provide greater oversight to the police force as a result of these meetings.
EDUCATION
A Taste for Accomplishment blueberry reduction, every sample was excellent. As I sought out my next sample, someone touched my elbow, drew closer and whispered, “You must try the cobbler… incredible”.
What a night. A small group of youth greeted us warmly as we waited to enter the gymnasium for the Taste of Scott (Scott Collegiate). The music was playing softly; and the room quickly filled with other eager guests clutching tickets to trade for the buffet of offerings that awaited us. Around the room twelve booths were laid with a variety of food samples. A blue capped, white-jacketed youth stood behind each station. While some of the youth appeared nervous, others beckoned us with a generous smile and invited us to their booths to try a sample. One thing was clear: these young people took this business very seriously. These students are members of a high school course in entrepreneurship. Each team of youth entrepreneurs offered their own unique menu of food samples. At one table the Sticky Jerk Salmon had the guests talking not only about the taste but the presentation, what with its shredded purple cabbage topped with a plantain chip, this dish looked a great as it tasted. Before we knew it the “Marcus Burger” with aioli sauce sold out. Whether you chose to eat the buffalo ranch wings or the bison brisket with a
LEFTBOOT
p h o t o g r a p h y
RYAN PETERMAN ryan@leftboot.com www.leftboot.com 306.541.8074
“Incredible” is right. This was no ordinary high school event. It is an example of the work undertaken by learners in the Aboriginal Youth Entrepreneurship Program (AYEP). The program, designed Photo by Bill Stevenson by former Prime Minister Paul Martin, through his Martin Aboriginal Education Initiative (MAEI) offers hands-on learning experiences to Aboriginal youth. Through AYEP, students are partnered with a mentor (local business person), who guides them throughout the learning experience. Students learned about entrepreneurship through reading case studies and listening to guest speakers. One such speaker was local chef and entrepreneur, Dickie Yuzicappi who owns the Sioux Chef catering company. The major assignment for this course was to design a restaurant with considerations for lighting, paint colors, and seating arrangements. Each student prepared a poster board which expressed their vision for their business. Students designed a menu which was also on display and of course, they prepared the delicious samples of food. Learners followed the process of identifying and growing an idea and this event allowed them to showcase their learning. When I shared with a young man that his product would be great offered through a food truck, he responded that he wasn’t very good with speaking
Dr. Shauneen Pete
with customers. I responded, “You can hire people to do that for you. You are the chef here. Hire the people you need to sell your product for you”. He smiled back at me. My hope is that some of the students will begin to consider managing their own business in the near future. This event attracted a number of community leaders including former Mayor Pat Fiacco, Adam Martin Director of Sakewewak Artists Collective, Sarah Longman, Supervisor of Aboriginal Education with Regina Public Schools and Dr. Bob Kayseas from First Nations University of Canada. Dr. Kayseas stated, “This event offers us a glimpse of educational innovation. These teachers combined the commercial cooking class and the entrepreneurship program to provide relevant, highly engaging and experiential learning for these students. The look of pride in the faces of the youth is immeasurable”. We were all proud of these young people. Principal, Shannon Fayant commented that throughout this class the support from the community was amazing. She stated, “Our community is so generous…they are incredibly supportive of the youth in this program, they are so willing to celebrate alongside our students all that they have learned”. Recognizing achievement is but one outcome for this course. The Right Honorable Paul Martin states, “Aboriginal education is the key to progress and success in Canada”. He explains that the program “encourages Aboriginal youth to stay in school where they can develop the attitudes, knowledge, and skills necessary to achieve success in secondary school, postsecondary education or training, the workplace, and daily life.” As the Taste of Scott evening wound down, I couldn’t help but notice that while many of the youth looked tired from their efforts aimed at hosting a successful event; certainly, what was also evident was a recognition of their own accomplishments at knowing that they had offered their guests a memorable evening. We educators must simply offer our learners a taste of accomplishment for them to begin to imagine their own potential. Thank you Scott Collegiate.
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SPORTS
Shana Pasapa wants to empower Indigenous Women through MMA Story by Shane Bellegarde / Photos by Ryan Peterman Shana Pasapa was understandably nervous when she walked into the gym three years ago for her first Jiu-Jitsu lesson. She was the smallest person in the gym and happened to be the only female. “We started out stretching and doing a little bit of a cardio workout. Then we did drilling and the first thing I was shown was called an Americana. It’s basically an arm lock.” That’s all it took to get passed the jitters. ‘It was the coolest thing ever. I’d never heard of it before and I knew how to do it now.’ Shana was already hooked but when the instructor took the time in that first class to show her how to escape from
underneath a person much bigger than she was it really sealed the deal. “Jiu-Jitsu is the art of fighting on the ground. The philosophy of it is that a smaller, weaker person can overcome a larger, stronger opponent by using technique, leverage and getting their weight off balance.” It takes a lot of sweat and determination to learn these techniques and Shana began paying her dues in the gym and even taking her skills to tournaments. “When I first started I would be so nervous my body would be shaking... Now I’ve found a way to calm myself down through music or sometimes I’ll sing ceremony songs before the tournament and it just calms me right down and it kind of gets me in the zone.”
It seems to be working for Shana, who began training with AJ Scales at Complete MMA and has been very successful. Unfortunately, injuries are common when training or competing in martial arts. “Both of my arms have been hyper extended. Twice on one and three times on the other.” A knee injury suffered in a tournament also set her back six months. Unfazed, she went right back to work with a regimen that now includes Wrestling, Muay Thai and Boxing. Although she’s climbing the ranks in the Jiu-Jitsu world there’s a reason for her diversification. “I grew up watching UFC with my uncle... It is a goal to have an MMA fight.’ ---------------------Training in multiple styles helps her become a more well rounded opponent and allows her to set up her finishing Jiu-Jitsu submission moves in other ways. Shana continues to be passionate about learning and advancing in the sport, always adding something new to her repertoire. ‘My favorite move is a baseball choke, but I haven’t perfected it. I like watching it though. When I see it I get excited.” It might be hard to balance the life of a single mother with all her training, (Shana has 2 young boys) but she is setting a great example of a healthy lifestyle for her children and they happily take part. Jiu-Jitsu is only part of that balance. “I try to make it to the gym at least four times a week to train.” On certain days, “We all have a class. Other days we’ll do yoga or walking. We also do Pow Wow, dancing and weights.” “I’m very fortunate to have a gym & family who support me & help what I do.” Other plans for Shana include using what she’s learned to empower others through a “self defense program for women. With the issue of Missing or Murdered Indigenous Women, it’s a tool our women should have.” Shana has developed a business plan to help this dream unfold so that others can feel safe and more confident in all aspects of their daily life. We look forward cheering her on and maybe learning a move or two in one of her future classes. ---------------------Shana will be competing in the Saskatchewan Submission Series April 4th in Saskatoon.
COVER STORY Story by Anonymousx Photos by Mike Dubois, Trudy Stewart, and Morin-Desjarlais Family
Remembering Lacy Morin-Desjarlais (1985-2015) “My vision and absolute definite life purpose is to be a mother. Not in the literal sense of having children. I want to be a mother for our world’s children, to reinstate the love and care they need through advocacy, knowledge, and history. I tell you this so you understand who I am.” – Lacy Morin-Desjarlais
Lacy Morin-Desjarlais was an extraordinary human spirit. Her ancestral name was Kimiwan Piyesiw lskew (Raining Thunderbird Woman), she was so proud and honoured to receive this name from her elders. At 29 years of age she had already attained an education in Art History, graduated from the prestigious Indigenous Dance Residency at the Banff Centre, worked as a youth advocate in Greater Vancouver, British Columbia, for over a decade, and went on to complete the Indigenous Women in Community Leadership Program at St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish, Nova Scotia. In 2013 Lacy graduated from Douglas College with a degree in Child and Youth Care Counseling. Lacy was a champion powwow dancer in both the Women’s Jingle and the Women’s Fancy Shawl categories; she would always be a top competitor in Iron Woman’s Fancy Dance specials at powwows across North America. This list of accomplishments goes on and on, to say things bluntly - Lacy was amazing. Constantly overcoming obstacles in both her personal and professional life, Lacy was also a very hard worker - holding down up to 4 jobs at one time, Lacy was far from lazy. She was constantly fighting against injustice at every level of her community work. She was reconnecting to her traditional Cree, Saulteaux and Metis roots, Lacy was a big believer in connecting to the land through traditional ways of being at Sundance and Rain Dance ceremonies. She was well connected and respected by elders from all across Canada. There is truly no way to explain how much we lost when Lacy died in that fatal crash. She was an Elder in the Making, saving lives through her art, and her love for both contemporary and indigenous dance practices.
Lacy was also an amazing cook, who reminded and encouraged people to respect their bodies as sacred space. Her incredible berry soup would make the grumpiest person blush. She loved taking care of people, especially children. During her years as the Youth Engagement Coordinator the Adoptive Families Association of BC, Lacy was constantly fighting to protect children within the foster care system. Lacy made herself available for youth in her programs long after work hours had ended, always providing them with someone to talk to in times of crisis. She made strong connections with young people of all backgrounds and continued to maintain friendships long after she left her position with the Adoptive Families Association of BC. “I witness the worst child protection situations everyday and I am working my ass off to make a change in this world - We are powerful individuals and we have the opportunity to create change.” – Lacy Morin-Desjarlais An avid sports fan, Lacy was a die-hard Saskatchewan Roughriders fan. In hockey, her allegiances were with the San Jose Sharks, Lacy loved “Big Joe Thornton” and would be an avid smack talker to whimsical Canuck fans during her time in Vancouver. Lacy was an impressive athlete who played high level ball-hockey, she also ran marathons and loved snowboarding. Lacy was always willing to try new things. She was becoming a well-rounded golfer, swimmer and rock climber. Lacy welcomed all challenges and had the grounding to accomplish anything.
“My vision and absolute definite life purpose is to be a mother. Not in the literal sense of having children. I want to be a mother for our world’s children, to reinstate the love and care they need through advocacy, knowledge, and history. I tell you this so you understand who I am.” – Lacy Morin-Desjarlais Lacy was in love when she passed, and had big plans for her own children and grandchildren. She had nieces and nephews who always declared her as their “favorite auntie.” She was in high demand as an actor in both film and theatre. The success she accomplished in the Saskatchewan Native Theatre Company production of “Nicomos” had people buzzing and wanting more. She was recruited to dance in a new project in Toronto and was popping up on many producers’ radars across the arts world. Her latest project was in collaboration with Michele Sereda, who was also killed in the tragic accident. Their final project was experimental film; a dance project that honours the students, cemetery and legacy of the Regina Indian Industrial School entitled “Dancing the Space In Between.” The film has been completed and will be featured at various film and art festivals around the world. Lacy was one of the most beautiful people to ever walk this Earth. Her memory will live on through her paintings, her regalia, her teachings, her love of dance and the tremendous impressions she left across Turtle Island. She was loved by many and will be deeply missed. Rest well, Lacy J, you finally get to dance with the ancestors.
- Anonymousx
MEMORIES
Friends and Family Remember Lacy Morin-Desjarlais
“I wish I could sit here and pick one great memory about Lacy to tell you about. However, as most people know, Lacy turned every situation into a great memory. I have known and loved Lacy for most of my life, 20 years to be exact. She started out as my best friend and then later progressed into my sister when she moved in with me and my Mom. I spent the first bit of my childhood as an only child and was so grateful to have Lacy fill that missing gap. Lacy was a woman who wore many hats in her life. Some saw her as a professional, a scholar, a dancer, an artist, an advocate even a jokester. But no matter what hat she was wearing that day one thing would always be the same, everyone loved her and gravitated towards her. I was lucky enough to get to see all the different sides of Lacy over the years and I cherish the memories that I have of her. If I had to pick one thing I would want people to remember about Lacy it would be her heart. Her heart was the biggest thing about her, she wore in on her sleeve and shared it with everyone. To say the world has suffered a great loss would be an understatement. Here’s to hoping her legacy lives on by inspiring others to do great things as she did.”
- Lauren Czuba, Adopted Sister She was a relative of many. A very experienced dancer on many levels and yet when we were on the pow wow trail she told me that she didn’t have to teach me anything because I already had my style. She could of tweeked my step or pace or my bounciness but when we were in the trail it was all about eating soup, chatting and dancing the best we knew how. I always found that part amazing about her. She respected people’s gifts so much that the other role she played was getting people motivated to shine their style and not hers. She also believed that pow wow dancers had fixed steps to honor champions and she always stuck to that which was fun because we continuously debated about it till she took her journey home. We were sisters everywhere we were, even without talking for a week, she’d show up by request of my fiancé Matt because he would say I need girl time and she was available. Her and my fiancé were best friends for a very long time. She also introduced us when the time was appropriate and we fell in love. She gave us the greatest gift of love possible. Love you Lacy we are forever grateful.
- Julianne Beaudin- Herney, Friend
Lacy J, a woman that even if you had only met for a moment, could make an impact. I was lucky enough to spend half my life with this amazing spirit, now she is in a better place but always dancing in our hearts. I found this for you Lacy, and thought you’d like it, always remembered, never forgotten, until we meet again. I thought of you with love today but that is nothing new. I thought of you yesterday and days before that too. I think of you in silence as I often speak your name. All I have are memories and your picture in a frame Your memory is my keepsake with which I’ll never part God has you in His keeping. I have you in my heart. -unknown
- Brooke P, Friend Lacy was a Fierce Friend. The first person you would call when something good happened. She was the person you’d want by your side during hard times, she’d lend you her strength with unwavering loyalty. An amazingly fun person to be around, up for anything and capable of everything! She was so much more then just a friend. The hole left by her absence feels unbearable. I will honour her passing by remembering all that she was and what she gave to this world. Rest in Peace my Dearest Friend.
- Andi Mitchell, Friend Lacey was a person of respect and loved all those around her. I was honoured to meet her through Jules. I loved her enthusiasm as we worked with the youth at the North American Indigenous Games. She made sure those who were put under her care were taken care of. I loved her ability to bring the youth together in the ensemble that was pulled together for her mentorship. It was really a shock to hear of her passing on. I was amazed and cheering her on as she continued to accomplish so much. May all those who got to know her be inspired to go above themselves and reach out to their communities like she did.
- Katryna Smith, RezX Writer
It was a honour to have been a part of such a talented and loving human being. She brought humour, intelligence and grace to all of work and play. The happy hunting grounds I am sure are pleased to have this angel among them. - Curtis Ahenakew, Friend Thursday nights my girl and I would head down to the Conservatory for Lacy’s 6pm powwow dance class. We both really enjoyed that class. She was an awesome teacher. She shared her passion for powwow dancing and patiently stayed around after class to answer everybody’s questions about the music, dancing and regalia for as long as they wanted to talk. There were a lot of non-First Nation people and families taking the class. She created a very welcoming environment for everybody to enjoy and learn powwow. I always enjoyed seeing Lacy around all the indigenous arts events around the city. She used to joke that you could find her by the food, and there she’d be, laughing and talking with everybody. She was a lovely, creative spirit who not only performed and danced, but also took in all the art that she could. Lacy and Michele (Sereda) collaborated on a short dance film that was screened at New Dance Horizons two days before the accident. Dancing the Space Inbetween is Lacy’s prayer for the children at the site of the Regina Indian Industrial School cemetery. She was moved by the story of the unmarked graveyard and wanted to honour the children who were long forgotten. Lacy’s creative energy often went into thinking about other people and honouring them through dance or visual art. I find it difficult to feel like I’ve done justice to both of these powerhouse women because words can’t express what I’m feeling or what they meant to me. I’ve been scrolling the twitter and facebook feeds for news and see people going about their daily things. I have been annoyed feeling like the world should have stopped and want to say, “Do you have any idea what the world has lost?” But I know they’d all want us to keep creating, keep working, keep moving forward. It’s just hard right now.
- Trudy Stewart, Film Maker
tributes
Remembering Michele Sereda, Michael Green, and Narcisse Blood EDITOR’S NOTE: I never personally knew these amazing artists, but from what I understand they were some of the most influential people in the arts community. Michele Sereda was an award-winning multimedia theatre and performance artist, who was a staple not only to Regina’s art community (Curtain Razors theatre), but also the global arts community as well. Narcisse Blood was an Elder from the blood tribe who was one of the most established Indigenous artists of our time, and Michael Green was “Calgary theatre’s fearless envelope pusher” (according to The Globe and Mail). Both Green and Blood were part of the now legendary, “Making Treaty 7” Project (a theatrical presentation) that was about to start making its rounds across Canada. So when these artists passed away in that tragic car accident on that cold February morning (with fellow artist Lacy Morin-Desjarlais), it was like a ripple effect that was felt through the arts community worldwide. In order to do justice to their names and memories, I asked a couple people who worked closely with them to share their fondest memories of these amazing artists.
Photo by Arnell Tailfeathers
Photo by Arnell Tailfeathers
MICHELE SEREDA
michael green
NARCISSE BLOOD
I was lucky enough to work with Michele in Cumberland House and Ochapowace First Nation and several other things. Sometimes we’d bump into each other and she’d say, “I feel like we haven’t spent much time together lately. I need my Trudy time. Why don’t you come work with me on this project I’m doing right now?” and I would jump at the chance. She used to tell me that my energy helped anchor her in the room. I never knew how I did that because I mostly just stood in quiet awe of her and how quickly and deeply she made connections. She had such an amazing instinct for what a performer needed and exactly how much time she had the kids’ attention for “before I lose them and they need a snack break.” Because of this instinct, I consulted with her on so many things and she was always so generous and bang on with her advice. One reporter asked me about her “unique” connection to First Nations communities, and the question was, “So where did her interest in working with First Nations come from?” I think it WAS a unique connection, though. Because although there can be a lot of interest about First Nations people and culture from non-First Nations people, with Michele came an understanding and respect that doesn’t always come with the interest.
Michael Green is an icon of collaborative Canadian theatre. He co-founded the iconic Calgary-based ensemble One Yellow Rabbit 30-odd years ago, under collective values of friendship, camaraderie, and boundless artistic exploration.
A true warrior always puts others first.
Everyone who had the blessing to work with Michael Green will undoubtedly speak of the friendship and mentorship he provided; and, there are many of us. Michael had the uncanny ability to befriend and empower those whom he believed in. His energy was generous, his exuberance and perseverance unparalleled. Michael epitomized the kind of artistic producer I wish to becomea workaholic with excellent business sense and authentic appetite to create and sustain relationships; and a super-freaky artist. Above all, he kept the artists and the artistry at the heart of every production. He was collaborative at every turn, constantly seeking another perspective, always asking “what do you think?”.
Narcisse Blood played many roles for many people, but his proudest role was that of father, then mentor, and then creator of many powerful works in film, education, environmental research, Blackfoot culture and language. Narcisse was the Kainai Studies Research Chair at Red Crow College at the time of his death. Narcisse was an advocate for the repatriation of sacred items from museums, archives and art galleries from across the globe.
- Trudy Stewart, Film Maker
Narcisse Blood always put his family first – and he had a big family that spanned his traditional, professional and artistic worlds.
In 2012, Michael was honored with the position of curator of Calgary’s Cultural Capitol year. Charged to create programming to touch every Calgarian, an advisory of Treaty 7 first nations elders assembled.
Naricisse’s reach and influence spanned across the country, North America and the entire world. And now that Narcisse has passed on to the next life – his influence and legacy will span across time and all dimensions of what we perceive as reality. Some of his latest and most brilliant work was in the “Making Treaty 7” theatrical production, where I had the pleasure of sharing the stage with him in a scene titled “Blackfoot Joe;” a piece of theatre that emphasized the importance of learning Indigenous
(continued on page 18)
(continued on page 18)
ARTS & Entertainent
Copper Thunderbird: The Art of Norval Morrisseau
Reporting by Lacy Morin-Desjarlais
Norval Morrisseau’s art legacy has been identified as one of the most important careers for First Nation artists in Canada. In the documentary, A Separate Reality, an art critic, Tom Hill claims the self taught painter to be at the highest quality from early on in Morrisseau’s career and without Morrisseau, that First Nation art would not have been considered “fine art” in Canada’s art history. On February 5th, 2015 the opening for the Copper Thunderbird: Norval Morrisseau art exhibit, was at the Plain Red Art Gallery, at the First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv). The Opening Reception had many visitors of other artists and local Regina community members. One visitor commented on the powerful effect that Norval’s painting has over the viewer, saying “his paintings are spiritual”.
Documentary Screening - Photo by Lacy Morin-Desjarlais
Copper Thunderbird Exhibit (Photo: FNUniv)
The opening of the art exhibit at Plain Red was to begin the symposium that focused on Morrisseau’s life, artwork, and career. The symposium included Panel discussions, Documentary Screenings, a book launch of “Norval Morrisseau: Man Changing into Thunderbird by Armand Garnet Ruffo”, and the Art Exhibit at Plain Red Art Gallery. On Saturday, February 7th, 2015 the documentary screening was an event co-hosted by Mispon: A Celebration of Indigenous Filmmaking. The film, A Separate Reality by filmmaker Paul Carvalho was selected to be screened because it reflects a reality of Morrisseau’s life that is not discussed as much, it is more about himself as a person. The documentary is available to be viewed by contacting Mispon at mispon.festival@gmail.com. The art show is open and running at the Plain Red Gallery until April 10, 2015 and is a must see collection of Norval Morrisseau’s paintings.
Dr. Lynn Wells holding picture created by Sturgeon Lake student (Photo: FNUniv)
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Regina, SK
Feb 23-28 2015
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featuring
Ryan McMahon Kevin Wasequate Peter Morin BRAD Bellegarde Kevin McKenzie Kinder Scout S hauneen Pete Peter Morin the Snake Oil Salesmen Bill Stevenson Julianne Beaudin-Herney Hilary Ryder Melanie Monique Rose Brian James Welcome to Kanata
Special Advertorial: ARTS & Entertainment ARTS
MACKENZIE ART GALLERY: Moving Forward, Never Forgetting On View: February 28 – April 19, 2015 Moving Forward, Never Forgetting creates a space for intercultural dialogue and storytelling. The exhibition and related events encourage sharing, empathy, and deeper understanding of what it means for Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples to co-reside in these territories. Newly commissioned works and performances, as well as significant pieces from the MacKenzie’s permanent collection, are accompanied by living speakers — Story Keepers – a new initiative at the Gallery. This project features residencies with artists Cheryl L’Hirondelle, Adrian Stimson, and Peter Morin.
Co-curated by David Garneau and Michelle LaVallee, the exhibition gathers beautiful, haunting, homey, occasionally humorous, but always moving testimonies of resilience. Among the leading contemporary First Nations, Métis and allied artists featured in the project are: Michael Belmore, Leah Decter, Audrey Dreaver, Julianne Herney, Terrance Houle, Cheryl L’Hirondelle, Jaimie Isaac, Peter Morin, Skeena Reece, Sandra Semchuk, and Adrian Stimson.
Save the Date! Opening Reception Friday, February 27, 7:30 PM, Free Admission Curator Walkthrough Saturday, February 28, 2 PM, Free Admission
Artist Residencies Image: Skeena Reece, Touch Me, 2013, HDV, 13:40 min, stereo, a/p. Image credit: Pete Hagge & Skeena Reece.
Moving Forward, Never Forgetting engages the personal, intergenerational, and intercultural effects of the aggressive assimilation of Indigenous peoples in Canada. The participating artists wrestle with the cumulative effects of Residential Schools, public schools, out-ofculture adoptions, land and language loss, and other generational deprivations. Their work presents a stark picture of how these government policies distorted their lives, ties with family, and relationships with neighbours, both Indigenous and non-Indigenous. At the same time, these works offer glimpses of hope: examples of crosscultural friendship, family sharing, and cultural continuance.
Peter Morin: February 23 – February 27 A Tahltan Nation artist, curator and writer who recently relocated from British Columbia to Brandon, Manitoba where he joined the Visual and Aboriginal Arts Faculty at Brandon University. Cheryl L’Hirondelle: March 11 – March 25 An Alberta-born, mixed-blood, communityengaged artist, singer, songwriter and curator. Currently based in Toronto, she has performed and exhibited her work widely both in Canada and abroad, and her previous musical efforts and new media work have garnered her critical acclaim and numerous awards. Adrian Stimson: March 16 – March 20 A member of the Siksika (Blackfoot) Nation in southern Alberta. He is an interdisciplinary artist, curator and educator. Based in Saskatoon, he has participated in numerous group and solo exhibitions across Canada and internationally.
Image: Michael Belmore, Smoulder, 2010-2011 (detail), carved stone, gilded copper. MacKenzie Art Gallery, University of Regina Collection, 2013. Image: Courtesy of the artist. Photo: Michael Belmore.
Community & School Tours Tours available March 2 - April 17, 2015. Please contact Sheri at sheri.mceachern@ mackenzieartgallery.ca or by phone 306-584-4250 ext. 4292 to book your tour today! Organized by the MacKenzie Art Gallery with the support of the Canada Council for the Arts, the Saskatchewan Arts Board, SaskCulture, the City of Regina, and the University of Regina. Brought to you with funding assistance from SaskCulture Inc., thanks to the Saskatchewan Lotteries Trust Fund for Sport, Culture and Recreation. We acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts, which last year invested $157 million to bring the arts to Canadians throughout the country. Nous remercions le Conseil des arts du Canada de son soutien. L’an dernier, le Conseil a investi 157 millions de dollars pour mettre de l’art dans la vie des Canadiennes et des Canadiens de tout le pays. This project received substantial support from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council Insight Grant: “Creative Conciliation,” Keavy Martin principal researcher.
www.mackenzieartgallery.ca 3474 Albert Street, Regina SK.
Image: Unknown Cheyenne artist, Fort Marion Ledger Page Cheyenne, 1875, graphite and coloured pencil on lined paper, 20.3 x 63.5 cm. Courtesy Donald Ellis Gallery, New York, NY, Dundas, ON. Photo: John Bigelow Taylor.
REAL MODELS
RAPA PROMOTES ROLE MODELS WITH “A PROUD GENERATION” CALENDAR
Every year, the Regina Aboriginal Professionals Association releases its “A Proud Generation” Calendar, which profiles Aboriginal Role Models in the community. RezX thought this was such a great initiative that we wanted to feature one of them, Jada Yee, who also happens to be February 2015.
FEBRUARY 2015 - JADA YEE Jada Yee, is a 35 year old Lakota Sioux from the Wood Mountain First Nation and ChineseCanadian. Jada is a father to four amazing children and a devoted husband to a very supportive and strong wife of thirteen years. Every day he strives to learn something new so that he can pass that to his children. Jada’s main goal is to create a fulfilling life for his family. Becoming a young parent at the age of 21 helped Jada realize that he needs to be a role model to continue a new journey in life. Jada believes that his children - a 13-year-old, 9-year-old and four-year-old twins – teach him just as much as he teaches them and that being a parent is the most rewarding job that’s he’s ever had. In 2013, Jada decided to return to the First Nations University of Canada and the University of Regina to complete his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Aware that being in a family of six did not allow for him, financially, to take an education leave from work, Jada decided to work full-time and take five full-time classes each
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“Envision what you want in life and go for it. Plan out the steps you need to achieve your goals in life and focus on success but do not fear failure because when we fail, we learn the most! Do not give up on what you really want to accomplish in life, when you have passion for what you do and inspiration, nothing can stop you!” - Jada Yee
A PROUD GENERATION ABORIGINAL ROLE MODEL PROGRAM Since its inception, the “A Proud Generation” Aboriginal Role Model Program has distributed more than $56,000 in the form of bursaries to over 90 Aboriginal youth in Saskatchewan. All proceeds from calendar sales are re-invested in the youth through the bursaries and into the program the following year. Anyone can purchase calendars by contacting RAPA (Regina Aboriginal Professionals Association) who publishes them; rapanetwork@gmail. com. To learn how you can get involved or to nominate someone for the 2016 A Proud Generation calendar please visit: www.aproudgeneration.com or www. rapanetwork.com
REAL MODELS semester. Jada firmly believes that his children were his motivation in not only pursuing his education but also showing him the value of education. Jada has been employed with SaskGaming since November 1999 where he first started as a part-time security guard. His world changed for the better in 2003 when he was selected to participate in the Aboriginal Management Development Program (AMDP). This opportunity allowed him to complete his Grade 12 and enroll in university as a mature student. SaskGaming allowed him to obtain his diploma in Business Administration and a certificate in Hospitality, Tourism, Gaming Entertainment Management. The AMDP program allowed Jada to expand his skills by placing him as a shift manager in every SaskGaming operations department where he has gained knowledge by being the manager of Casino Operations; the Food & Beverage shift manager within the Food and Beverage department; and the pit manager within the Table Games department. His various employment experiences have allowed him to gain relevant knowledge of all areas within the operations of the Casino including but not limited to: the Slots, Table Games, the Bank and the Guest Services. Early in Jada’s academic career an elder taught him to always give back to those who teach you. While in university, Jada was involved with volunteering for as many events as possible, this led him to being a Student Ambassador for the First Nations University of Canada Regina Campus as well as Master of Ceremonies for many events such as the Winter Festivals, Student Elections, and Convocation Ceremony. He was also a part of the Student Association and served as a First Nations University/University of Regina Students’ Union Executive Representative and the Office Manager for the Student Association. Jada also had the honor of volunteering to be the Chair of the Proud Generation Committee which helped showcase Aboriginal Youth Role Models throughout Saskatchewan in a Calendar. A Proud Generation Calendar inspired him to become more actively involved in his community where he volunteers as a council member for the Red Cross. High points in Jada’s academic career have included research participation in a presentation that combined First Nations Values with Gaming in Saskatchewan. It took a great deal of time and dedication but the result was an invitation to assist in presenting the project with Professor Joanne Goodpipe at the 15th Annual Gaming & Risk Taking Conference in Las Vegas at the end of May 2013. Recently, Jada was awarded the “Third International Student Mobility Partnership on Cultural Diversity” scholarship from the University of Regina where he travelled to Mexico to study and interact with their five Indigenous populations for three weeks. Upon completion of his undergraduate studies, Jada will receive a Bachelor’s degree in Business in June 2015 whereby he plans on continuing his education by applying for graduate school in Masters of Public Administration. Jada credits his personal and professional success to the support of his family, First Nations University of Canada and his co-workers. Source: Regina Aboriginal Professionals Association
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artist community tributes (Michael Green continued from page 13) Upon the completion of the Calgary 2012 mandate – over doughnuts brought in by Michael – the advisory spoke of an ambition to create an enduring, legacy project to speak to the true history of the land upon which we all now live. This project was guided to be respectful and consultative, and that the outcome be accurate, authentic, traditional and contemporary. Thus, Making Treaty 7 Project was born. Michael would often speak about Making Treaty 7 as the project which his entire career had lead up to. His truly generous spirit and enormous scope of art and humanity gave him the humility to engage with and be a carrier for the true story of the land. The day that he was honored with his Blackfoot name, Ponokodaak or Elk Shadow, was one of the proudest days of his life. He was bravely engaging with the origins and contemporary outcomes of the contentious and little-understood colonial history of Southern Alberta, under the auspices of moving forward together, as “we are all Treaty people”. Michael was a great man, a great leader, and a great listener. His influence has helped to shape the culture of Calgary, the tradition of Canadian ensemble theatre, and his legacy of Making Treaty 7 will continue to explore and question our true histories and responsibilities as local and global citizens, bound to the land which sustains us.
- Rio Mitchell, Producer, Making Treaty 7 Project
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(Narcisse Blood continued from page 13)
CULTURE
languages and the anxiety of not knowing how to say words “correctly.” Narcisse had little experience acting on stage in a professional setting, but he slipped into the many roles he played like a true natural.
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Narcisse was travelling with Making Treaty 7 Producer Michael Green; to begin the early stages of what potentially would have became “Making Treaty 4.” Narcisse recognized how important this work was in creating initial conciliation, as opposed to the reconciliation initiatives we’ve all become accustomed to over the past decade. The “meeting” our fallen artists were about to have in the Piapot First Nation on February 10, 2015 had all the trajectories of “history in the making” – but tragedy struck and that meeting never happened. Narcisse loved to tell stories; he would travel to conferences and summits abroad, presenting his research with his counterpart at Red Crow College Ryan Heavy Head - Director of Kainai Studies at Red Crow College.
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The passing of Narcisse Blood is a stark reminder of how important our elders and knowledge keepers truly are. I saw Naricisse Blood, Michael Green, Michele Sereda and Lacy Morin-Desjarlais as immortals of our cultural fabric. The untimely death of all four of these community pillars is truly a call to action to everyone who was influenced by their work to “step up.” Narcisse has surely influenced to his children, protégé’s and collaborators to “try harder” – his mantra was always driven by a Blackfoot word, Iikaakimaat, which is roughly translated as “try hard” in your work. We can never replace Narcisse Blood, but we can definitely strive to “be better” in this life while we have the privilege and opportunity. Thank you Narcisse – you’ve made the wake of genocide feel like a call to action from those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
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