Coronavirus COVID-19
Don’t forget about mental health! stress / anxiety / depression
Information and advice inside.
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www.nationnews.ca April 10, 2020 the Nation 1
PAP-GouvQc-Covid19-THE-NATION-10x10,25-1877-EN-HR-bleed.pdf
1
2020-03-31
09:05
The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) causes a respiratory infection that can involve the following symptoms:
Fever
Cough
Trouble Breathing
Protecting yourself saves lives. Cough into your sleeves
Throw your used tissues into the trash
Wash your hands
Keep your distance
QuĂŠbec.ca/coronavirus 1 877 644-4545 2 the Nation April 10, 2020 www.nationnews.ca
Stay at home
CONTENTS EDITORIAL
COVID-19 and the Nation
NEWS
Tracing contacts
5
Teaching in trying times
6
IN BRIEF
5
6
Confirmed cases in Eeyou Istchee
FEATURES
CSB adapts to new reality
4
9
Frontline heroes
10
Phoenix grounded
16
Furnishing a new future
22
A star from the ‘Skag
27
Hitmakers in the making 30
REZ NOTES Stay healthy my friends
35
UTNS 38
Time to wear a mask Coronavirus COVID-19
Don’t forget about mental health! stress / anxiety / depression
10
Information and advice inside.
Stay Home for Frontline Workers
16
Sports
Mianscum’s rookie season interrupted
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Arts
Photo CC by Bruno Cervera
22
Cree furnishings
27
A star from the ’Skag
30
Musical futures
www.nationnews.ca April 10, 2020 the the Nation Nation 3 3
COVID-19 and the Nation by Will Nicholls
Editorial
Y
ou may have noticed that this issue is published in a different format. As a result of COVID-19 the plant that prints the Nation is now closed. We had to use a different facility that doesn’t have all the bells and whistles we normally feature. In addition, Air Creebec has shut down passenger flights in and out of Eeyou Istchee. That means we had to find other ways to get print editions to our readers. We are doing our best to find solutions to these challenges because we believe it is necessary to supply the information people need during this health crisis if we are going to stay healthy – as individuals and as a nation. The office is a lonely place these days. Everybody is working from home except for me. Phone calls to the Nation are transferred to one person who then lets us know who called and why. Please be patient and clear about why you are phoning so that we can direct you to the best person to handle your call. It is not business as usual. When I step into the office, I use hand sanitizer right away even though I wear gloves when I am outside my home or office. It’s the smart thing to do as the virus remains active for long periods on a variety of surfaces. I also have a skidoo mask that I can put on if someone appears to be less than well when I’m on the bus. Speaking of which, it’s not much of a problem since there are never many other passengers these days, making it easy to keep up a two-metre distance. I do worry about taxis and Ubers however because you never know who they picked up earlier and what they touched. It’s a scary time. In my grandmother’s family only four of her siblings – less than half the original number – survived a whopping cough epidemic that tore through our community. This was not the only time that Cree have faced a deadly epidemic.
the Nation We will be here in these trying times to keep you up to date as best we can on how the pandemic is changing our lives and the best ways we can cope, adapt and survive
In another era, a severe form of gastritis proved fatal for several Cree, mostly Elders and the young. Leaders at the time insisted that folks head for the bush to avoid spreading or contracting the illness. They knew that isolation would stop its spread. In this pandemic, our leadership is making gentler suggestions along the same lines. Whatever we do, we need to keep our distance from each other. Everyone needs to follow this advice, so the past is not repeated. When a few people ignore this recommendation, it puts everyone at risk.
For the sake of our families, friends and communities, everyone needs to respect these guidelines. The resources that are available in the Cree communities to handle the pandemic are limited. Don’t forget our past. We are a survival-oriented people. So please act like it. The Nation will be here in these trying times to keep you up to date as best we can on how the pandemic is changing our lives and the best ways we can cope, adapt and survive.
the Nation is published every two weeks by Beesum Communications EDITORIAL BOARD L. Stewart, W. Nicholls, M. Siberok, Mr. N. Diamond, E. Webb EDITOR IN CHIEF Will Nicholls DIRECTOR OF FINANCES Linda Ludwick EDITORS Lyle Stewart, Martin Siberok PRODUCTION COORDINATOR AND MANAGING EDITOR Dan Isaac CONTRIBUTING WRITERS X. Kataquapit, S. Orr, P. Quinn, D. Isaac, D. Coyle, B. Powless, J. McIntosh DESIGN Matthew Dessner SALES AND ADVERTISING Danielle Valade, Donna Malthouse, Melissa Juliette THANKS TO: Air Creebec CONTACT US: The Nation, 4529 CLARK, #403, Montreal, QC., H2T 2T3 EDITORIAL & ADS: Tel.: 514-272-3077, Fax: 514-278-9914 HEAD OFFICE: P.O. Box 151, Chisasibi, QC. J0M 1E0 www.nationnews.ca EDITORIAL: will@nationnews.ca news@ nationnews.ca ADS: Danielle Valade: ads@nationnews.ca; Donna Malthouse: donna@beesum.com SUBSCRIPTIONS: $60 plus taxes, US: $90, Abroad: $110, Payable to beesum communications, all rights reserved, publication mail #40015005, issn #1206-2642 The Nation is a member of: The James Bay Cree Communications Society, Circle Of Aboriginal Controlled Publishers, Magazines Canada Quebec Community Newspaper Assn. Canadian Newspapers Assn. Les Hebdos Sélect Du Québec. Funded [in part] by the Government of Canada. | www.nationnews.ca |
facebook.com/NATIONnewsmagazine | Twitter: @creenation_news
4 the Nation April 10, 2020 www.nationnews.ca
CMCA AUDITED
Tracing contacts
Three cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Eeyou Istchee by Dan Isaac
News
I
n just over a month, the COVID-19 virus has gone from some far-off threat to an active health risk in the communities of Eeyou Istchee. At press time, there were three cases of the virus in two Cree communities – Nemaska and Chisasibi – with another Cree currently fighting the virus in Montreal. To date, the Cree Health Board has conducted 78 COVID-19 tests, with 36 coming back negative, three positives and 39 pending results. Given the exponential spread of the virus, however, these numbers could be many times higher once this issue reaches readers. The first case in Eeyou Istchee was confirmed by the CHB March 26. The infected individual returned home to Nemaska after traveling abroad and was diagnosed during the mandatory 14-day self-isolation period. The second confirmed case in Eeyou Istchee was this person’s travel companion. The third contracted the virus while on a trip to Montreal before returning to Chisasibi. All three cases were confirmed while the individuals were in self-isolation. Following the first confirmed case, Public Health doctors enacted contact-tracing procedures to inform anyone who had been in close contact with each of the affected individuals. Among the physicians is Dr. Colleen Fuller, who says the process is about containing the virus as thoroughly as possible. “Usually, there’s a window of time before the individual realizes they have symptoms, when they became infectious before they isolated themselves,” Fuller told the Nation. “Once they’re confirmed to have the virus, we talk with the individual to find out everyone they may have been in contact with two days before they started displaying symptoms.” Fuller noted that because public awareness regarding the virus is high, sometimes the amount of people needed to get in contact with is relatively small. Other times, not so much.
“So far, all of the confirmed cases in Eeyou Istchee appear to be mild” - Jason Coonishish, the CHB coordinator of Prehospital and Emergency Measures
“For instance, if the individual has been on a plane, we have to obtain a list of everyone on that plane and get in contact with them,” she explained. When asked how asymptomatic or “silent” carriers of the virus are being accounted for, Fuller said that the way this is portrayed in the media has created some unwarranted fear. “A lot of infectious diseases can be passed ‘silently,’ so that’s not something that’s new to the control of infectious diseases,” said Fuller. “The fear that anyone at any time could transmit this disease, that’s not really accurate. It does seem that some people have been able to transmit it when they had no symptoms themselves, although often we’re also finding many of these people had very minor symptoms and just thought nothing of it at the time.” While most of the people she has contacted have handled the news well, Fuller admitted that receiving her call can trigger some anxiety. A hotline has been set up to deal with the psychological toll that being part of the contact trace can have. Currently, the confirmed patients in Eeyou Istchee are in self-isolation in their homes, while the Montreal patient is in isolation at the
Espresso Hotel. According to Jason Coonishish, the CHB coordinator of Prehospital and Emergency Measures, all three are doing well. “We have Public Health officers delivering their daily needs to them without making direct contact,” said Coonishish. “So far, all of the confirmed cases in Eeyou Istchee appear to be mild.” In their April 1 public statement, the CBH insisted that social distancing is the most important means of preventing the spread of the virus. This includes staying home, maintaining a two- metre distance from people in public, washing hands often, and coughing and sneezing into a tissue or sleeve. The statement also warned that the Eeyou Eenou Police Force “will continue working closely with Public Health to ensure that orders and restrictions are complied with protecting our communities to the greatest extent possible.” For Psychosocial Help during the COVID-19 crisis call 1-833-632-4357. For any questions related to COVID-19, contact the Eeyou Istchee COVID-19 Information Line at 1-866-855-2811, or visit eeyouistcheecovid19.org
www.nationnews.ca April 10, 2020 the Nation 5
Department of Justice and Correctional Services Lorem Ipsum
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ᑳ ᐧᐃᓂᐦᑑᑎᐧᐋᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐊᐧᐋᓂᒌ ᐋ ᐅᐦᒋ ᐧᐄᒋᐦᐋᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᒌ ᐅᔑᐦᑖᑭᓂᐧᐃᐤ ᒑᒌ ᐧᐄᒋᐦᐋᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐊᓂᒌ ᐊᐧᐋᓂᒌ ᐋᒌ ᐧᐃᓂᑑᐧᑖᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐅᔮᐧᐋᐦᒡ, ᐅᒥᑐᓈᔨᒋᑭᓂᐧᐋᐦᒡ ᑭᔮ ᐅᐱᒫᑎᓯᐧᐃᓂᐧᐋᐦᒡ ᐊᓂᔨᐤ ᐅᐦᒋ ᐋᒌ ᐲᑯᓂᑭᓂᐧᐃᔨᒡ ᐧᐃᔨᔑᐧᐋᐧᐃᓂᔨᐤ ᑭᔮ ᒫᒃ ᐋ ᐊᔨᒦᔥᑎᐧᒫᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐋ ᐧᐄᒋᐦᐋᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᒑᒌ ᐱᑯᐦᑖᒡ ᒑᐧᑳᔨᐤ ᐅᐦᒋ ᐋᒌ ᐋᐦᑯᐦᐋᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡx ᑳ ᐧᐃᓂᑑᑖᑯᔨᓈ ᓈᔥᑦ ᐋᒌ ᐧᐋᐱᐦᑎᒥᓐ ᐋ ᐲᑯᓂᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐧᐃᔨᔑᐧᐋᐧᐃᓐ, ᓃᔑᓐᐦ ᐃᔨᔨᐤ CAVAC ᐋ ᐅᐦᒋ ᐋᐱᑎᓰᔥᑎᐧᐋᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐃᔨᔨᐧᐃᒡ ᐊᓂᑖ ᐃᔨᔨᐤ ᐊᔅᒌᐦᒡx ᓂᓈᐦᑭᐤ ᐃᔑ ᐧᐄᒋᐦᐋᐧᐃᒡ ᐊᐧᐋᔨᐤᐦ ᐊᓂᒌ CAVAC ᐋᐱᑎᓰᓯᐧᐃ, ᒋᒡ: ≠≠≠:≠ ≠≠ ≠:::: ≠≠≠: ≠≠: :≠ ≠: :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ᑐᒡ:≠≠≠: ≠≠≠≠≠ᒡᒡ≠≠: ᐋ ᓂᑎᐧᐃᒋᔅᒑᔨᒫᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐋ ᐃᔑ ᓂᑎᐧᐋᔑᐦᑎᐦᒡ ᑳ ᐧᐃᓂᑑᐧᑖᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐋᐧᐃᒄ ᑭᔮ ᐅᔥᑭᒡ ᐋ ᐊᑎ ᐱᒥᐱᔨᒡ ᐋ ᑎᐹᔅᑯᓂᒑᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡ ᒑᒌ ᐧᐄᒋᐦᐋᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᑳ ᐧᐃᓂᑑᐧᑖᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᒑᒌ ᐃᐦᑑᑎᐦᒃ ᐋ ᐃᔑ ᓂᑎᐧᐋᔨᐦᑖᑭᓂᐧᐃᔨᒡ ᒥᓯᓂᐄᑭᓐᐦ ≠ ≠≠≠≠ᐦ≠≠≠≠≠≠≠ : ≠≠≠≠≠:≠≠≠≠≠ :≠: ≠ ≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠ ᐱᑯᓂᒑ ᑯᔨᔅᒃ ᒑᒌ ᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦᐦ ᐧᐄᒋᐦᐋᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᑳ ᐧᐃᓂᑑᐧᑖᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐊᓂᑖ ᐧᐃᔮᑯᓂᒑᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ ᓂᑐᐦᑯᔨᓐ ᐋᐱᑎᓰᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ ᐱᒫᑎᓰᐤᐧᐄᒋᐦᐄᑯᓯᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᐋ ᐃᐦᑎᑯᓂᔨᒡ ᒑᐧᑳᔨᐤ ᒑ ᐧᐄᒋᐦᐄᑯᑦ ᐊᓂᑖ ᐃᐦᑖᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ ᒫᐧᑳᒡ ᐋ ᐃᔑ ᓂᒋᔥᑭᐦᒃ ᒑᐧᑳᔨᐤ ᐧᐋᔥᑖᐱᔨᐦᐄᑯᑦ ᑦᑦᑦᑦᑦᑦᑦᑦᑦᑦᑦᑦᑦᑦᑦᑦᑦᑦᑦᑦᑦᑦᑦᑦᑦᑦ ᒫᐧᑳᒡ ᐋ ᓂᒋᔥᑭᐦᒡ ᓂᑐᐦᑯᔨᓐ ᐋᐱᑎᓰᐧᐃᓂᔨᐤ ᑭᔮ ᐋ ᐃᐦᑎᑯᓂᔨᒡ ᒑᐧᑳᔨᐤ ᒑ ᐧᐄᒋᐦᐄᑯᑦ ᐊᓂᑖ ᐃᐦᑖᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ ᑭᔮ ᒑ ᔒᑐᔥᑯᐧᐋᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᒫᐧᑳᒡ ᐋ ᐱᒥᐱᔨᔨᒡ ᐋ ᑎᐹᔅᑯᓂᒑᓂᐧᐃᔨᒡ ᐃᔥᑯᑎᒃ ᐋ ᒋᐦᒋᐱᔨᔨᒡ ᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡᒡ ≠ᐦ: ≠:≠≠ ≠≠≠ᒡ ≠: ᒡ≠≠ ≠:: ≠≠ ᒡ::ᒡ ≠≠≠≠:≠:≠≠≠≠ᒡ :: ≠ ≠≠≠≠≠ᒡ::x ≠::ᒡ :ᒡ≠ᒫ≠:≠≠ CAVAC ≠: ≠:≠≠≠≠≠≠≠ ≠ ≠: ᒡ≠≠≠≠ : 1 (855≠ 603-6137 M st ss , Oujé-B u um u, W sw p :≠ᒡᓃ, ≠≠ᐳ≠ᒨ, ≠≠≠ᓵ≠ᐲ
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≠::ᒡ ::≠≠ CAVAC ≠: ≠:≠≠≠≠≠≠≠ ≠ ≠: ᒡ≠≠≠≠ : 1 (855≠ 603-6168 W sk sh, Nem sk , E stm ≠≠::≠≠≠≠ᔥ, ≠ᒫ::ᒡ, ≠ᒡᒫ:
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ᐋᔥᑎᒥᒄ, ᐸᒋ ᒧᐧᐃᑎᓯᐧᐋᒄ ᐅᑎᐦ ᑎᐹᔅᑯᓂᒑᐅᑭᒥᒄ ᐧᐋᔅᑳᐦᐄᑲᓂᐦᒡ᙮ ᐊᑎᑎᐤ ᒫᒃ ᐧᐃᓂᑐᒋᔅᒑᔨᐦᑎᒥᓈ ᒑᐧᑳᓐ CAVAC ᐅᐦᒋ ᐊᓐ ᒑ ᐊᔨᒥᔨᓐ ᐊᓂᑎᐦ:
CREE CAVAC SERVICES (Crime Victims Assistance Centre) CAVAC or crime victims assistance centre, has been created to help victims overcome the physical, psychological and social consequences of a crime, and to advocate on their behalf to help them obtain compensation for the harm suffered. If you are a victim or witness to a crime, then there are three Cree CAVAC offices that have been established to serve you in the Cree Nation. POST-TRAUMA AND PSYCHOLOGICAL INTERVENTION, to assess the needs of victims of crime INFORMATION ON THE RIGHTS CRIME VICTIMS HAVE AND THE REMEDIES AVAILABLE TO THEM, which encompasses the main stages of judicial process TECHNICAL SERVICES, to assist crime victims in filling out required forms REFERRING VICTIMS TO SPECIALIZED SERVICES, such as appropriate legal, medical, social and community resources capable of assisting victims as they attempt to deal with problems they face ACCOMPANYING CRIME VICTIMS, through their dealings with medical and community resources, and providing sustained support throughout je judicial process as the case proceeds Our front-line services are free of charge and strictly confidential with you. Cree N rther CAVAC T ll Free: 1 (855≠ 603-6136 Wh pm stu , Ch s s b , Wem dj
Sexual Violence Prevention 819-342-5296
Cree Ce tr l CAVAC T ll Free: 1 (855≠ 603-6168 W sk sh, Nem sk , E stm
Cree S uther CAVAC T ll Free: 1 (855≠ 603-6137 M st ss , Oujé-B u um u, W sw p
Come and visit us at your local justice facility. For any CAVAC requests please contact: cavacinfo@cngov.ca
www.creejustice.ca 6 the Nation April 10, 2020 www.nationnews.ca
Cree School Board adapts instruction to deal with new reality
A
s governments around the world strive to contain the COVID-19 pandemic, school closures have impacted close to 90% of students. The Cree School Board (CSB) is following the Quebec government’s precautionary measure to close all education institutions until at least May 1, with a tentative plan to keep schools shut the following two weeks for Goose Break. “We are honouring the upcoming Goose Break for all schools,” stated CSB Director General Abraham Jolly. “During this time of uncertainty, public health remains our priority, however we want to reassure you that student success continues to be at the heart of what we do at the Cree School Board.” Jolly added that their staff and partners are collaborating to ensure students have opportunities to continue their learning and progress towards graduation. Additional online teaching resources for all grade 1-3 students in english and french launched April 3 on the Eeyou Education website, while the rest of the grades and Cree-language material will be online the following week. Potential interactive learning options are also being considered. Each department within the CSB has rapidly adapted to the unfolding events, with many employees now working from home. Employees are preparing coordinated responses based on various contingency plans, such as whether the school year can be completed following Goose Break. “Our IT department has really mobilized on that and been innovative in their thinking,” said CSB Chairperson Sarah Pash. “They have made sure there’s access to our virtual private network for those employees who need it, which means we can operate things like payroll and H/R services remotely. It’s made it a lot easier to keep the student board moving and our employees supported.” While daycares will remain closed, emergency childcare is provided for essential workers with no alternative support. This free service is available for children aged 5 to 13 during regular hours of the work week – those who need the service can contact emergencychildcare@cscree.qc.ca. With most post-secondary institutions shutting down, moving classes online and asking students to vacate campus housing, the CSB is helping Cree students return to their home communities if they so choose. Students pursuing post-secondary programs in other provinces are encouraged to verify their institution’s closure extensions and the status of remaining exams. “As soon as the announcements were made about universities and colleges closing, our post-secondary department was in touch with students, telling them if they felt they needed to travel home we were here to support
Teaching in
trying times by Patrick Quinn
CSB Chairperson Sarah Pash speaking at the 2018 Regional Language Engagemement session
them,” Pash told the Nation. “The other thing we’ve done is made sure that allowances are released early for post-secondary students and that they also get a special supplementary allowance.” This additional funding will help compensate for internet access or specialized technology that students might need to complete their terms, especially for those students with young children to support. Students who remain in the south are advised to stay in regular contact with the CSB’s post-secondary student services. “We’re very aware there’s a lot of anxiety out there among both students and parents about how we’re going to manage promotions and deal with graduation,” Pash noted. “Right now, we’re going through a huge review of all student files to see how much of their program they have completed up to this point. We’ll be connecting with teachers to see what their individual assessments of students are.” The CSB is taking an individual approach to evaluating each student’s progress and determining their readiness to pass to the next grade. This assessment is particularly critical for those students preparing to graduate. “We’re already making plans to ensure our students are able to achieve their graduation requirements in some way,” Pash said. “Our job is to make sure we take a very rational and fair approach and make sure we’re not shortchanging them in terms of the education that they were supposed to receive.” The province cancelled this year’s ministerial exams, standardized assessments that typically weigh heavily in students’ final marks, on March 22. This gives the CSB significant flexibility in evaluating students seeking to pursue college or
“Our job is to make sure we take a very rational and fair approach and make sure we’re not shortchanging them in terms of the education that they were supposed to receive” - CSB Chairperson Sarah Pash
university programs next year. The deadlines for post-secondary applications will also be extended. “Once all this assessment is done, we’ll be able to move into looking at how we support those students who are going into post-secondary next year,” said Pash. “Because those students are going to be missing a little less than a third of their school year, we’re going to have to figure out the types of supports that we put into place.” Parents home with their children will also have new online supports, both from the CSB website and the province. Quebec’s Education Ministry has stated that a list of optional grade-specific educational activities will be provided to parents by email or post by April 6. Some teachers have used Zoom or Facebook Live to provide online lessons. Many students are creating virtual science fairs and reading groups or exploring virtual museum tours. Parents could exercise math skills by getting children involved in family budgets, calculating distances or measuring ingredients.
Pash emphasized that these activities are completely optional. Rather than turning homes into classrooms, she said, parents can use this opportunity to practice traditional land-based education while strengthening bonds with their children. As kids may be confused and scared by this isolation period, providing emotional support is a parent’s most important role. Ultimately, Pash is enthusiastic about how Cree leadership has rallied to coordinate communications and emergency measures. The effectiveness with which staff have transitioned to remote working conditions may even be successfully leveraged once this situation eventually passes. “There’s huge problem-solving from all our staff going on during this period,” Pash said. “Our teachers have really been impressive, wondering how they can help support students. I’ve been getting a lot of messages from teachers about how much they miss their students and being in their schools and classrooms.”
www.nationnews.ca April 10, 2020 the Nation 7
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8 the Nation April 10, 2020 www.nationnews.ca
If you are an Indigenous woman of Eeyou Istchee and you are seeking safety and support, we are here to help you!
Standing tall
T
he Standing Rock Sioux scored a major victory in the fight against the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL) March 25 when a federal judge ruled that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) violated the National Environmental Policy Act by approving federal permits for the pipeline. In December 2016, the Obama administration denied permits that would enable the USACE to complete construction on the controversial pipeline. However, the newly installed US President Donald Trump reversed that decision the following June. The tribe has challenged the reversal ever since. The March 25 ruling states that the USACE must now undergo a full environmental study of the potential impacts of the DAPL – including concerns raised by the Standing Rock Sioux. “This validates everything the tribe has been saying all along,” said Earthjustice attorney Jan Hasselman. “The Obama administration had it right when it moved to deny the permits in 2016, and this is the second time the court has ruled that the government ran afoul of environmental laws when it permitted this pipeline. We will continue to see this through until DAPL has finally been shut down.”
Northern checkpoints welcomed
In Brief
T
he decision to establish road checkpoints to stop non-essential travel to eight Quebec regions by the provincial government has been hailed by Indigenous leaders in the province, including Cree Grand Chief Abel Bosum and AFNQL Regional Chief Ghislain Picard. “It’s an announcement that has been welcomed by many of our communities,” Picard told the CBC. Grand Chief Bosum took to social media to welcome the news. “I am very happy that the rest of Quebec will be helping us better protect our region,” stated Bosum’s post. “The SQ are working closely with the EEPF to ensure that residents of the North will always be allowed to return home. This measure will also help us in discouraging Cree hunters from going south where the situation is less stable.” The only traffic allowed to pass the checkpoints will be essential goods and services, including workers and volunteers. The checkpoints have been set up to restrict access to Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Eeyou Istchee, Gaspésie-Îles-de-la-Madeleine, the Lower St-Laurent, Northern Quebec, the North Shore, Nunavik and Saguenay Lac-Saint-Jean.
Indigenous tourism fund
T
he Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada has announced a $1.2 million stimulus package to be distributed to its members who will be hit hard economically by the COVID-19 outbreak. The national organization has 140 members across the country. It will be providing them with up to $25,000 in grants to help weather the economic crash brought on by the pandemic. In Eeyou Istchee, members of the organization include the Cree Nation of Mistissini, -Cree First Nation of Waskaganish, the Cree First Nation of Waswanipi, Tourism Ouje-Bougoumou, Wemendji Tourism and Voyages Eeyou Istchee Baie-James Inc.
www.nationnews.ca April 10, 2020 the Nation 9
Frontline heroes by Patrick Quinn
Photos by Jeraldene Coon
10 10 the the Nation Nation April 10, 2020 www.nationnews.ca
Essential workers stay at work for all of us, so stay home for them
A
s Cree Health Board and Social Services of James Bay continues to work intensively with partners to prevent, detect and control the spread of COVID-19 in Eeyou Istchee, frontline workers are adapting to new priorities while following the same precautionary distancing measures as everyone else. “I do sense that some employees are anxious, but it is our job as Cree Health Board workers to remain calm and professional at work,” said Jeraldene Coon, the local lead for COVID-19 communications in Mistissini. “It’s normal now to ask how you are handling things – they say we’ll just go to the bush. We’re a good team here.” Coon regularly updates clinic workers about new tools and self-care measures provided by Public Health. For instance, Dr. Rosie Khurana trained nurses in Mistissini a few weeks ago in skills required for the emerging health crisis. A video created during the sessions will be shared with other communities. Regular bulletins also alert employees about current conditions and best practices. With personal protective equipment such as N95 surgical masks becoming a valuable commodity, new measures have been implemented to track inventories and ensure adequate supplies. Health services across the region are diverting resources toward essential activities while minimizing face-to-face interactions. Most clinic and homecare consultations are now provided by telephone, while homecare workers are limiting visits to urgent matters, such as dressing changes and injections. “It’s not a walk-in clinic like it used to be,” Coon told the Nation. “[Patients] have to call before coming. They started doing [prescription] deliveries at the pharmacy. People have to call 48 hours in advance for delivery. They use a stick to deliver the medication or wait until the client answers and leave it at their doorstep.”
Non-urgent medical appointments are now postponed until the crisis eases. At Chisasibi Hospital, only emergency visits are permitted – a security guard screens arrivals and ensures people wash their hands before entering. Dental care, meanwhile, is limited to emergencies. As Elders are the most vulnerable, visits to oldage homes are suspended and people are strongly discouraged from seeing those living on their own.
“We need to keep our services strong in the community so people don’t need to go down south” - CBHSSJB chairperson Bella Moses Petawabano
Nonetheless, families should remain available to deliver their food and other goods so that Elders don’t have to leave home. Coon’s awareness project on the CHBSSJB Facebook page to protect Elders recently featured health-care staff promoting the message, “We stay here for you, please stay home for us.” It stems
from her work with the youth department, which is trying to adapt recommendations for younger audiences. “The youth target group is still our challenge,” explained Coon. “There are still social activities going on. They’re still partying. That’s why I want to work with the youth.” To that end, she is planning a broadcast akin to a radio call-in show on social media in which she’ll ask medical experts to answer questions. In an echo of the daily press conferences given by the prime minister and Quebec premier, CBHSSJB chairperson Bella Moses Petawabano makes regular updates on JBCCS radio at 3 pm. Community members can also access regional information online at eeyouistcheecovid19.org, which provides answers to frequently asked questions, specialized information for health professionals, as well as posters and videos for the general public. “While our services in many ways have to be adjusted to accommodate this pandemic situation, the Cree Health Board needs our workers to be present,” said Petawabano. “We need to keep our services strong in the community so people don’t need to go down south. More than ever, we need all our staff present at work in the CMCs [Community Miyupimaatisiiun Centres]. All of our workers are essential.” Meanwhile, a new toll-free telephone number has been established to help people who have specific questions about the virus – 1-866-8552811. Callers are greeted with an automated message in Cree and English and asked to leave their name, phone number, community and question. A representative from the team of eight nurses will respond within the hour. “The provincial information line was overwhelmed with calls and we found that the information provided was not applicable to the realities of our communities,” explained Patrice Larivée, a
www.nationnews.ca April 10, 2020 the Nation 11
A safe and abundant Goose Break to all ᒥᓯᐙ ᒑ ᐃᔮᒀᒥᓯᔮᒄ ᑭᔮ ᒑ ᒦᓯᒋᓯᔮᒄ ᐋ ᓅᒋᐱᔮᓱᐙ ᔮᒄ
In the light of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, the Cree Trappers and Hunters Association wish to encourage everyone to pursue their cultural traditions, enjoy the land and their Goose Break, all in a safe manner! We hope that hunters will remain in the territory of Eeyou Istchee during this coming spring Goose Break. We strongly encourage everyone to take part and comply with this prevention measure for the safety of our wellbeing of our people and more importantly our elders. Every individual is urged to take part in reducing the risk of spreading the virus in our communities. Therefore, please practice these recommendations to save lives:
Follow these simple steps to stay healthy whether you are at home or on the land
• Practice social distancing Avoiding direct contact with anyone other than close family members.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the washroom and when preparing food. Change the water every time your wash your hands. • Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
• When coughing or sneezing, do it into a tissue or the bend of your arm.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
For up to date information on Covid-19, please visit: www.creehealth.org/coronavirus
12 the Nation April 10, 2020 www.nationnews.ca
Those feeling overwhelmed in this crisis are advised to call their local CMC and ask for a mental health consultation
Photo CC by Tai S.
nurse counsellor who is leading the phone service team. “From there, Public Health Director Faisca Richer came up with the idea. It was just a matter of getting IT involved and I trained nurses on COVID-19 to be able to answer calls. It has been operational since last week.” The hotline provides quick assessments of symptoms and refers callers to appropriate services when necessary. Another key motivation is to stop the spread of false information circulating on social media. “The idea was to correct that and have a place where they could get accurate information,” Larivée elaborated. “People are concerned about all sorts of things. They’re afraid of being infected. They want to know what the symptoms and risk factors are, and what to do if somebody they know or live with is being tested for COVID.” While most people are following social-distancing measures, local police have begun enforcing a prohibition on gatherings. “People don’t understand the chain of transmission,” Larivée said in defending these more coercive measures. “You may think you will not get sick because you are young and healthy. But you have to consider more vulnerable people around you, especially young infants or the elderly, people who have chronic diseases.” Those feeling overwhelmed in this crisis are advised to call their local CMC and ask for a mental health consultation. As well they should limit their time on social media and instead enjoy traditional activities outdoors. A new hotline to address mental health issues is now available at 1-833-632-4357. “We do receive calls from people who are worried about it,” said Larivée. “It’s a long overdue service – besides COVID, it’s a great resource for the population.” Self-care is especially vital for healthcare workers. Coon emphasizes that frontline personnel should take time for themselves, concentrating on mindfulness and maintaining healthy routines. Besides relieving stress through exercise, she recommended staying social through online tools. “I know social distancing is hard but there is other stuff you can do,” said Coon. “Yesterday, I missed my friends so much that we decided to FaceTime – all seven of us! It was fun, especially using the filters and interactive games. We have to adapt to these norms for now.”
“Yesterday, I missed my friends so much that we decided to FaceTime – all seven of us! It was fun, especially using the filters and interactive games” - Jeraldene Coon, Mistissini lead for COVID-19 communications
www.nationnews.ca April 10, 2020 the Nation 13
COVID-19
ᔦᐦᔦᐙᔅᐱᓀᐎᓐ ᐁ ᐋᔔᒦᑐᓈᓅᒡ
WHAT TO DO ᑖ ᒉ ᐃᐦᑎᔨᓐ tâ che ihtiyin
YOU HAVE
YOU HAVE
TRAVELLED
NOT TRAVELLED
OUTSIDE THE COUNTRY IN THE PAST 14 DAYS
NO SYMPTOMS
OUTSIDE THE COUNTRY IN THE PAST 14 DAYS
SYMPTOMS:
COUGH, FEVER, DIFFICULTY BREATHING
STAY HOME & SELF-ISOLATE
CALL CMC
FOR FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS
SELF-ISOLATE MEANS: Stay home, in a closed room alone at all times Use a separate bathroom as much as possible No visitors No sharing of objects If in contact with other members in household, stay 2 meters (6 feet) apart and wear a mask Disinfect surfaces and objects frequently (especially door knobs, light switches, etc.)
14 the Nation April 10, 2020 www.nationnews.ca
IF INSTRUCTED TO STAY HOME THEN YOU MUST
SELF-ISOLATE
NO SYMPTOMS
PROTECT YOURSELF AND OTHERS BY FOLLOWING THESE MEASURES: PRACTICE PHYSICAL DISTANCE + AVOID TOUCHING YOUR FACE (ESPECIALLY EYES, NOSE AND MOUTH) + WASH YOUR HANDS FREQUENTLY + COUGH / SNEEZE INTO YOUR SLEEVE OR TISSUE (PUT TISSUE IN GARBAGE AFTER) + TAKE EXTRA CARE IF YOU OR YOUR CONTACTS ARE OLDER OR HAVE A CHRONIC DISEASE
PROTECT YOUR LOVED ONES AND STAY HOME ᒌᒋᐦᒡ ᐃᐦᑖᐦ ᐁᒄ ᒉ ᒥᔪᑲᓇᐧᐁᔨᒥᐧᑖᐤ ᑳ ᓵᒋᐦᐄᐧᑖᐤ chîchihch ihtâh ekw che miyukanaweyimitwâu kâ sâchihîtwâu
COVID-19
ᔦᐦᔦᐙᔅᐱᓀᐎᓐ ᐁ ᐋᔔᒦᑐᓈᓅᒡ
THE MAIN SYMPTOMS OF COVID-19 ARE:
ᒫᐤ ᐁ ᐃᑖᔅᐱᓀᑦ ᐊᐧᐁᓐ ᐁ ᐊᔮᑦ ᐊᓂᔨᐤᔦᐦᔦᐧᐋᔅᐱᓀᐧᐃᓐ ᐁ ᐋᔓᒦᔨᑐᓈᓂᐧᐃᒡ mâu e itâspinet awen e ayât aniyiuyehyewâspinewin e âshumîyitunâniwich
FEVER
COUGH
ᐁ ᒋᔑᑌᐅᓂᑯᓰᑦ
ᐁ ᐅᔥᑐᑕᐦᒃ
e chishiteunikusît
e ushtutahk
DIFFICULTY BREATHING ᐁ ᐋᔨᒥᐦᐄᑯᑦ ᐁ ᔦᐦᔦᑦ e âyimihîkut e yehyet
Do not go to the CMC or Hospital unless you have first obtained an appointment. If you have difficulty breathing, please call the CMC or Hospital to let them know you are on your way. For more information contact 1 877 644-4545 (Quebec Info-line) or 1 866 855 2811 (Eeyou Istchee Info-line).
SPECIAL ATTENTION MUST BE PAID TO THE ELDERS, ESPECIALLY INDIVIDUALS 70 YEARS AND OVER, SINCE THEY ARE AT GREATER RISK OF COMPLICATIONS ᓈᔥᒡ ᔮᐧᑳ ᒋᑲ ᐧᐄ ᓈᑲᑕᐧᐁᔨᒫᑲᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᒋᔐᔨᔨᐧᐊᒡ ᐊᓂᒌ ᐅᓯᑌ ᓃᐧᔖᓱᒥᑕᓇᐤ ᑳ ᐃᑕᐦᑐᐳᐧᓀᓯᐧᑖᐤ ᐧᐁᔅ ᐧᐄᔭᐧᐋᐤ ᒫᐧᐊᒡ ᐃᔑᓈᑯᓂᔨᐤ ᐧᐃᔦᔥ ᒉ ᒌ ᐃᔅᐸᔨᐧᑖᐤ ᐁᑳ ᒥᔪᐸᔨᐧᑖᐤ
For more information:
EEYOUISTCHEECOVID19.ORG 1 866 855-2811
www.nationnews.ca April 10, 2020 the Nation 15
16 16 the the Nation Nation April 10, 2020 www.nationnews.ca
Phoenix GROUNDED Hockey shutdown halts Israel Mianscum’s promising junior hockey debut by Dan Coyle | Photo provided by Dan Coyle
T
he sports world has taken a beating as the COVID-19 outbreak widened across the planet. In addition to all professional sports leagues suspending play as part of the ongoing effort to stem the spread of the novel coronavirus, closer to home the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) likewise elected to cancel the remainder of its season. That decision had a direct impact on Mistissini’s Israel Mianscum, who saw his first season of major junior hockey abruptly ended by the shutdown. If seeing his debut with the Sherbrooke Phoenix cut short was not bad enough, the thought of what could have been brings no comfort. A consistent presence atop the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) rankings since the start of the season, the Phoenix had emerged as a favourite to represent the QMJHL at the Memorial Cup – especially during the 13-game winning streak they rode into the season-ending shutdown. While losing a shot at a Memorial Cup title comes as a massive disappointment, it is far from the end of the hockey road for Mianscum. Indeed, it is just the beginning. It has been a busy year for Mianscum since being selected 10th overall by the Phoenix in last spring’s QMJHL Draft. He also enjoyed his first taste of international hockey as a member of Team Canada at the IIHF Under-17 World Hockey Championships this winter. In his first game back with the Phoenix, he followed up with an assist and two goals – including the game winner – in a 6-1 victory over the Cape Breton Eagles. While that performance marked a turning point for Mianscum, being part of the best junior team in Canada was not without drawbacks for a 16-year-old rookie. With the Phoenix skyrocketing to the top of the QMJHL standings and CHL rankings, the club increasingly leaned on more experienced players as the season wore on. “It’s tough at 16 to play junior hockey. It’s even tougher when it’s with the No. 1 team in Canada,” Mianscum told the Nation from his home in Mistissini. “But I felt much better as the season went along. I felt like I belonged.” Sherbrooke Phoenix head coach Stéphane Julien agreed with that assessment. “Israel brought a lot to the table in his first season with us. He’s a smart player, who quietly went about his business, and has learned a lot,” Julien said. “His potential is there, and we expect him to be a part of our top six next season.”
www.nationnews.ca April 10, 2020 the Nation 17
During this time of uncertainty, public health remains our priority. However, we want to reassure you that our traditional way of life remains highly valued at the Cree School Board and we are pleased to honour the upcoming Goose Break for all schools and our employees. Enjoy our beautiful territory as you gather wisdom and guidance from your family and friends. We look forward to you sharing your stories and photos by including #goosebreak2020 in your posts. Happy Goose Break! ᒣᐧᑳᒡ ᐅ ᐁ ᐋᔨᒥᐱᔨᐄᒡ ᐱᒫᑎᓰᐧᐃᓐ, ᓃᑳᓐ ᐃᔅᐱᐦᑌᔨᐦᑖᑯᓐ ᒥᔪᐱᒫᑎᓰᐧᐃᓐ᙮ ᒨᒃ ᒫᒃ, ᒋᐧᐄ ᒋᔅᒉᔨᐦᑎᒥᐦᐃᑕᓈᓐ ᓃᔮᓐ ᐅᐦᑌᐦ ᐄᔨᔨᐤ ᒋᔅᑯᑎᒫᒑᐧᐃᓐ ᐁ ᒋᔥᑌᔨᐦᑖᒫᑦ ᒋᑕ ᐄᔨᐦᑑᐧᐃᓅ ᑲᔦᐦ ᐁ ᒥᔦᔨᐦᑕᒫᑦ ᐁ ᐧᐄᐦᑕᒫᑖᑦ ᓂᑐᐧᐄᓐ ᒉ ᐃᔅᐸᔨᐦᔦᒃ ᐅ ᒉ ᓂᑑᐦᐆᓈᓅᒡ ᒌᐧᐋᐤ ᒥᓯᐧᐁ ᒋᔅᑯᑕᒫᒉᐅᑲᒥᒄᐦ ᑲᔦᐦ ᒥᓯᐧᐁ ᓂᐊᐸᑎᔖᑭᓈᓂᒡ᙮ ᑲᒫᐦ ᒥᓯᐧᐁ ᒌ ᒥᔦᔨᒨᔮᒄ ᐊᓂᑌᐦ ᒋᑕ ᐄᔨᔨᐤ ᐊᔅᒋᐧᐋᐦ ᑲᔦᐦ ᒫᒃ ᐁ ᒋᔅᑯᑕᒫᓯᐧᑳ ᒋᑕ ᐯᔭᑯᑌᓅᐦ ᑲᔦᐦ ᒋᑕ ᐅᑑᑌᒻᐦ᙮ ᓂᐋᔑᓄᐧᐋᐦᑖᓈᓐ ᒋᑕ ᑎᐹᒋᒧᐧᐃᓐᐦ ᑲᔦᐦ ᒋᑕ ᒪᓯᓈᐱᔅᑲᐦᐄᑲᓂᐦᑳᓐ ᐊᓂᑌᐦ #goosebreak2020᙮ ᒥᔦᔨᒨᒄ ᐅ ᒉ ᓰᑯᓂᑖᐦᐃᔦᒃ!
info@cscree.qc.ca
www.eeyoueducation.ca
Visit ccdc.qc.ca for COVID-19 important message
Have a safe and enjoyable Goose Break
ᒑ ᐃᔮᒀᒥᓰᔮᒄ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒑ ᒥᔻᔨᒧᔮᒄ ᒑ ᓅᒋᐱᔮᓯᐙ ᓂᐎᒡ The Cree Construction and Development Company wish all Eeyouch/Eenouch of Eeyou Istcheee to have a wonderful Goose Break!
18 the Nation April 10, 2020 www.nationnews.ca
“Israel brought a lot to the table in his first season with us. He’s a smart player, who quietly went about his business, and has learned a lot... His potential is there, and we expect him to be a part of our top six next season” - Stéphane Julien, Sherbrooke Phoenix head coach
Junior teams like the Phoenix see a turnover in player personnel every year. Older players age out of the league, while others step away for personal reasons. The prospect of landing an important role on the top two lines of a Memorial Cup contender brings Mianscum closer to his dream – hearing his name called at the 2021 NHL Draft. “It has always been my goal to get drafted by an NHL team, but I don’t want to focus too much on that,” Mianscum allowed. “I just need to work hard.” The need for hard work became evident in his rookie season with the Phoenix, he noted: “The older guys are way stronger and way faster. Now I have the time to build on the stuff I’ve learned.” Staying fit and preparing for next season remains a constant goal. Mianscum continues to work out in
the gym he set up at home in Mistissini with the guidance he is receiving from Phoenix personnel. He plans to return to Sherbrooke well in advance of training camp this August to further his conditioning and skating ability with the Montreal Canadiens’ strength and conditioning coach Pierre Allard. Mianscum credits the time he spent with Allard last summer for his fast start with the Phoenix this season. For now, however, spending time with family remains his priority for this extended off-season. “It sucks right now that I can’t get on the ice, and Sherbrooke was a great place for me to be,” Mianscum said. “But I am home now, and I am enjoying spending time with my family, getting back to some Cree traditions that I’ve missed, and spending some time in the bush.”
www.nationnews.ca April 10, 2020 the the Nation Nation 19 19
Don’t forget about mental health! Are you feeling stressed, anxious or depressed? The following advice can help you to intelligently deal with events stemming from the coronavirus COVID-19 epidemic here in Québec. The current coronavirus (COVID-19) and related unprecedented preventive measures are a new reality, one that is not easy to deal with. For some, the measures can make an already difficult situation even more fragile for family, financial and/or social reasons. While an event of this size can affect your physical health, it can also impair your mental health by causing stress, anxiety or depression. But there are things you can do to improve how you manage these types of reactions. Most people will succeed in adapting to the situation, but paying attention to your needs remains very important. Don’t be afraid to do what is necessary to help yourself. If you are a close friend or family member of a person with disabilities, pay particular attention to signs of their stress, depression or anxiety if they are unable to clearly express them.
How do these problems manifest themselves?
1
2
PHYSICAL SYMPTOMS • Headaches, neck tension, digestive problems • Sleep problems • Loss of appetite
PSYCHOLOGICAL AND EMOTIONAL SYMPTOMS • Worries and sense of insecurity • Feeling overwhelmed by events • Negative view of things or daily events • Discouragement, sadness or anger
3
BEHAVIOURAL SYMPTOMS • Difficulty concentrating • Irritability, aggression • Isolation, withdrawal from others • Increased use of alcohol, drugs and medication
20 the Nation April 10, 2020 www.nationnews.ca
How to succeed in adapting?
What to do when distressed?
Take good care of yourself when you are in preventive isolation. Stay in touch with your close friends and family by telephone or Internet. Pay attention to your feelings and talk about them with someone you trust while yet abiding by social distancing recommendations. Speak with a friend and ask for help when you feel overwhelmed. It isn’t a sign of weakness but strength when you do what is necessary to get through it. Physical activity will also help reduce tension.
When this unusual situation seems never-ending, your emotional reactions can become sharper. For example, you may feel greater fatigue, become overwhelmed by fear, have more trouble accomplishing your daily tasks or fear a greater risk of contagion. Pay attention to these signs of trouble ahead and, as soon as possible, reach out to the resources that are available to help.
Give yourself moments of pleasure by listening to music or taking a warm bath: it will lower stress. Counting on your own strengths will help you to surf over the hard times.
Experiencing financial worries? Increased stress related to financial insecurity can also arise during a pandemic. Loss of employment and income are a major source of anxiety for everyone, but it can become worse when we are in isolation. Many websites exist that offer help, such as the Québec.ca/coronavirus government site. The following website can also provide general assistance: ementalhealth.ca
How to help young children and teenagers manage their worries? Just like you, children and teenagers can have concerns about the pandemic and the events that are taking place. They can in fact be affected even more because they do not always understand the information they hear or see.
Reactions vary individually, so be attentive to their fears and need to be reassured, and let them use their own words to describe how they feel. Show them that you care. Listen to their worries and give them even more love and attention. If possible, provide opportunities for them to play and relax.
Signs of your child’s stress
Signs of your teenager’s stress
• • • •
• Worries about personal health and the health of close friends and family • Feels unaffected by the situation or laughs off the danger • No longer interested in preferred activities • Has trouble sleeping, appetite issues (eats too much or not enough) • Wants to drink alcohol and/or take drugs • Is aggressive, irritable, refuses to obey public health instructions
Trouble sleeping Wants to be held, asks questions Physical pain such as tummy ache Agitated behaviour, disputing what you say or do
What to do? • Keep control of your emotions. For example, you might go into the bathroom by yourself to calm down • Teach your child basic personal hygiene, such as how to wash hands properly • Reassure and spend more time with your child • Have your child take part in household preventive tasks • Maintain your usual habits and schedules or create new ones for safe play and relaxation
Managing time at home or when teleworking • Suggest your children work just • Set aside some time each day like you by drawing, reading or for family activities. Play board doing educational activities games, read out loud, go for a walk applying distancing measures, etc. • Invite the older children to supervise the younger ones when • Speak with your workmates by they play phone or chat at nap time • Ensure that each parent gives time to the children
Other ways to better manage your stress or anxiety as a family While obtaining the right information is important, put limits on time spent seeking information about COVID-19. Information overload can raise the stress level, making you more anxious or even depressed.
Avoid sources of sensationalist news and doubtful information. This will help separate fact from rumour. Concentrate on facts to help allay your concerns.
Use reliable resources like the Use the information you already have Government of Québec official Québec.ca/coronavirus website. to plan what comes next. Set aside specific times for updates once or twice a day.
What to do? • Ensure that your teenager really understands the situation. Correct any information that is wrong • Do not minimize the seriousness of the situation • Avoid moralizing • If you are uncertain about how to respond, say so. Provide serious answers as soon as you can or suggest calling a telephone support hotline
Resources For stress, anxiety or depression about the progression of the current epidemic in Québec, call Services Québec at 418-644-4545, 514-644-4545, 450-644-4545, 819-644-4545 or toll free at 1-877-644-4545. The person that answers your call will provide more information and you will be directed to a psychosocial professional who can provide the additional support and advice you need. Deaf or hard-of-hearing persons call toll free at 1-800-361-9596. Resources for better management of worry: • Living better with your child: inspq.qc.ca/en/tiny-tot • ecolebranchee.com (video that explains COVID-19 to children and why schools are closed, how vaccine is made, etc.) [French] • carrefour-education.qc.ca (French) • naitreetgrandir.com (French)
Resources for better management of family time: • alloprof.qc.ca (French) • teteamodeler.com (also has ideas for crafts, cooking, nursery rhymes, etc.) [French] • viedeparents.ca (French) • vifamagazine.ca (French) Telephone hotlines for people in psychological distress: • Regroupement des services d’intervention de crise du Québec: centredecrise.ca/listecentres (French) offers services 24/7 for persons in distress • Tel-Aide listening centre provides help 24/7 to people suffering from solitude, distress or who need to have someone listen: 514-935-1101 • Écoute entraide is a community organization that supports people who are emotionally suffering: 514-278-2130 or 1-855-EN LIGNE • Telephone assistance service 1-866-APPELLE (277-3553)
Québec.ca/coronavirus 1-877-644-4545 www.nationnews.ca April 10, 2020 the Nation 21
Richard Mianscum’s burgeoning career gave him a way to overcome his struggles by Ben Powless Photos provided by Richard Mianscum
22 the Nation April 10, 2020 www.nationnews.ca
W
hen an Elder asked Mistissini’s Richard Mianscum if he could make a king-sized bed, it would turn out to be just the push he needed to get his life back on track. In 2013, Mianscum was having problems at home – with his girlfriend, and with drugs and alcohol – that threatened his custody of his children. “I was about to lose everything, including my kids. Drinking, doing drugs, that’s how we grew up,” Mianscum told the Nation. He was working doing renovations and general housework, while also taking his young children to school and daycare. But when the courts told him he could lose his children for a year, he agreed to attend a treatment centre for a six-week program. “Six weeks sounded good,” Mianscum recounted. “I needed a break, so I accepted that.” He managed to stop drinking. But four weeks into the program, a friend passed away, and Mianscum returned to Mistissini. When he returned to the treatment centre, he admitted that he had smoked and broken the rules. Offered another chance to start the program, Mianscum agreed. He finally returned home after a total of 12 weeks.
Furnishing
a new future
“Since then, no drugs, no drinking, that helps me a lot. My hobbies keep me busy,” he said, adding that his children – now 10, 12 and 13 years old – are still with him. Mianscum posted on Facebook to see if anyone needed any work around the home when an Elder asked about making a bed. Having taken a furniture-making course decades earlier, Mianscum figured he could get it done. It turned out there was a strong demand for beds in the community – and that kept Mianscum working hard. Eventually he outgrew his basement workshop and expanded into other furniture. “People kept saying I needed a shed,” he recalled. “I asked the band office if there was a
budget to start a business like this because I wanted to stay working at home with my kids.” The band found $5,000 to help Mianscum start his business in earnest. Since then, he’s been teaching himself his own way of making furniture. Yet he’s eager to follow up with past clients to make sure their furniture is holding up. “Three years ago, I made a table and 10 chairs for a school. I asked the teachers if the chairs are okay – they said there are no problems with the chairs, but one of the tables has a crack in it, so I’m learning to do tables differently,” he said. “I always ask people to tell me if there’s anything wrong because I’m still learning. Nobody’s complained so far.”
Mianscum has now expanded beyond beds and beyond Mistissini – making tables, chairs, living-room sets, TV stands, bedroom sets and kitchen cabinets. He’s had clients in all nine Cree communities, and as far away as Sudbury, Ontario. Currently, he’s working on an order of 20-some tables and over 90 chairs for a restaurant but is cautious about taking other orders and having people visit during the coronavirus outbreak. For anyone interested in ordering furniture once things return to normal, Mianscum says the best way to contact him is via Facebook.
www.nationnews.ca April 10, 2020 the Nation 23
SPRING GOOSE HUNTING MESSAGE 2020 With Spring Goose Hunt season around the corner, preparations will have to be a little different this year as we remain mindful of the global COVID-19 pandemic. While a very popular tradition at the heart of Eeyou culture, the current situation has us carefully planning for a safe and healthy Goose Break.
Travel advisories have been put in place across the province that must be considered. Health or other services in the south or other provinces may also become quickly unpredictable during a time you should be enjoying with your family. Community members are encouraged to prepare for and remain in Eeyou Istchee during this season’s hunt while following these guidelines; •
Buy your provisions locally and encourage your community’s economy during this uncertain time for our entrepreneurs.
•
Screening family members before departure is very important. If you have any symptoms (fever, sore throat, coughing, body aches) you should not leave the community.
•
• •
Be cautious in how you will be travelling. Ensure that you are not mixing families or camp groups in the same vehicle. If you are flying, it may require some logistical organization to ensure social distancing in the aircraft.
Our hunting camps are often smaller than our homes making precautionary measures difficult to practice. Be sure to bring disinfectant, change the wash bowl water often, don’t share cutlery and cups. Take extra care of any elders or vulnerable people that may have traveled with you. Social distancing should continue to be practiced as much as possible. Receiving guests or visiting other camps should be done only if necessary.
Being with a healthy family and loved ones is more important than the size of the harvest. We hope that you all find an opportunity to connect with the land and our culture, safely and responsibly. We would like to express our most sincere gratitude to the staff and professionals at the Cree Board of Health and Social Services, our front-line medical workers and workers in essential services who are providing much needed services during these difficult times. It is comforting to know that there are many people dedicated to our safety and well-being. May this Goose Break be one that shows the unity of our people and the care we have for one another in Eeyou Istchee.
FOR UP TO DATE INFORMATION: COVID-19 INFO-LINE: 1-866-855-2811 COVID-19 WEBSITE FOR EEYOU ISTCHEE: WWW.EEYOUISTCHEECOVID19.ORG
24 the Nation April 10, 2020 www.nationnews.ca
ᐋ ᓯᑯᐦᒡ ᐋ ᓄᒋᐱᔮᓯᐧᐋᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᒫᐦᒫᐦᒋᒧᐧᐋᐧᐃᓐ 2020 ᔕᔥ ᐋ ᐹᓱᓈᑯᐦᒡ ᐊᑎ ᓯᑯᐦᒡ ᒑ ᓅᒋᐱᔮᓲᐧᐋᓂᐅᒡ, ᐊᔨᐦᒡ ᒋᑭ ᐃᔅᐱᔨᐤ ᐊᑎ ᐋᔭᔅᑭᐧᐃᓈᓂᐅᒡ ᐆ ᐧᐹᐳᐦᒡ, ᓂᒧᐃ ᒋᑭ ᐧᐃᓂᒋᔅᒋᓈᓂᐤ ᑖᓐ ᐋᔥ ᑖᑯᐦᐆᐧᐋᒡ ᐆ ᐊᓅᐦᒡ ᒥᓯᐦᑖᔅᑭᒥᒡ ᐆ ᐊᐦᑯᓯᐧᐃᓐ COVID-19 ᙮ ᐊᓐ ᒫᒃ ᓈᔥᒡ ᐋ ᒧᒌᐦᐄᐧᐋᒡ ᐊᓐ ᐧᐋᒋᐦᒡ ᐄᔨᔨᐤ ᐊᔨᐦᑐᐧᐃᓐ, ᐆ ᐊᓅᐦᒡ ᒫᐧᑳᒡ ᐊᔅᐱᔨᒡ ᐊᑎᑎᐤ ᔮᐧᑳᐦ ᒋᑭ ᑎᓈᓂᐤ ᐋ ᐋᔮᔅᑯᐧᐃᓈᓂᐅᒡ ᔮᐧᑳᒥᓯᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒥᔪᐱᒫᑎᓯᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ ᐆ ᒑ ᐊᑎᓅᒋᐱᔮᓯᐧᐋᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐋ ᐄᐧᐋᓯᓈᓂᐅᒡ᙮ ᔕᔥ ᒌᐦᐱᒋᔅᑎᓂᑭᓂᐤ ᐄᔮᐧᑳᒧᐧᐋᐧᐃᓐᐦ ᐅᑎᐦ ᐆ ᐊᔅᐱᐦᑎᔅᑭᒥᑳᒡ ᑯᐹᒃ ᐊᓂᑎᐧᐋᔨᐦᑖᑯᐦᒡ ᒑ ᑐᑖᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ᙮ ᒥᔪᐱᒫᑎᓯᐧᐃᓐᐦ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒫᒃ ᐊᓐ ᑯᑎᒡ ᒑᐧᑳᓐ ᐸᒥᐲᐦᐧᑖᑭᐧᐃᔨᐦᒄ ᐅᑖᐦ ᐲᓯᐧᒫᐦᑖᐦᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒫᒃ ᐅᑎᐦ ᐆ ᑳᓇᑖᐦ ᐊᑎᐦᑯᐦᒡ ᑭᑎ ᒌᐦ ᐃᔑᓈᑰᓐ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒑ ᒌ ᐃᔮᐧᑳᒧᐧᐋᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐊᓂᑎᐦ ᐊᓐ ᒫᐧᑳᒡ ᒑ ᒥᐧᔮᔨᐦᑎᒧᐧᐋᑯᐱᓈᐦ ᐊᓂᑎᐦ ᐊᓐ ᒋᐹᔨᑯᑖᐅᓯᐧᐃᓂᐧᐋᐦᒡ ᐋᐦᑖᔮᒄᐦ᙮ ᐊᓂᒌ ᐄᐦᑖᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ ᐧᐋᐦᒋᔨᒡ ᒋᓯᐦᒋᒥᑯᐧᐃᓈᐧᐋᐤ ᐊᓂᑎᐦ ᒑ ᒌ ᑖᔮᒄ ᐄᔨᔨᐤ ᐊᔅᒌᐦᒡ ᒫᐧᑳᒡ ᐊᓂᑐᐦᐅᓈᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐅ ᒑ ᐊᑎ ᓰᑯᐦᒡ ᐊᐦᑐᑎᒫᒄ ᐊᓐ ᐊ ᐃᔑ ᓂᑎᐧᐋᔨᐦᑖᑯᓯᔨᐦᒄ ᒑ ᑐᑎᒥᐦᒄ ᒋᐦᒋᓂᐧᐋᐱᐦᑏᔨᐧᐋᐧᐃᓐᐦ᙮ •
ᐊᓂᑎᐦ ᐅᐦᑎᓈᓲᐦ ᐊᔅᑎᐦᑖᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᐧᐄᒋᐦᐄᐧᐋᐲᐦᑖᐦ ᐊᓐ ᐱᑳᔅᒋᐦᐅᐧᐃᓐ ᐊᓂᑎᐦ ᐊᔅᑎᐦᑖᐧᐃᓂᐧᐋᐦᒡ ᒫᐧᑳᒡ ᐅᑎᐦ ᐋᐦᑖᔨᐦᒄ ᐋᑳ ᒑᔅᑎᓈᑏᔅᑖᔨᒡ ᐊᓂᔮᔨᐤ ᐋ ᐃᔑ ᐸᒥᐲᐦᑖᒡ ᒑᐧᑳᔨᐤ ᐊᓂᑎᐦ ᐊᔅᑎᐦᑖᐧᐃᓂᐧᐋᐦᒡ᙮
•
ᐃᔮᑭᒥᓯᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ ᐄᑖᔨᐦᑎᒥᒄ ᒫᐧᑳᒡ ᐊᐲᐹᒥᐦᑖᔮᒄ᙮ ᔮᔨᑖᐃ ᐊᑳᐧᐄ ᐹᔨᑯᐦᐋᒄ ᐊᓐ ᐅᑖᐹᓐ ᐋᐦᐋᐱᒋᐦᐋᒄ ᑯᑎᑭᒡ ᐋ ᐧᐃᑎᔅᒋᓈᒫᑯᒡ ᐊᑎ ᐹᐦᐹᔨᐦᑯᐦᑖᐅᓰᒡ᙮ ᑳ ᐱᒥᐦᔮᒥᑭᐦᒡ ᒫᒃ ᐄᔮᐱᒋᐦᑖᐧᐋᐧᑳᐤ, ᒋᑭ ᒌ ᐃᓯᓈᑯᓐ ᓈᔥᒡ ᒑ ᒌ ᐧᐃᔨᓲᐧᐋᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐊᓐ ᐋ ᐃᔑ ᐆᐧᐋᓯᐱᐦᑖᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐋᑳ ᓈᔥᒡ ᐹᐧᓵᐱᒥᑐᔮᐦᒄ ᐊᓂᑎᐦ ᐊᓐ ᑳ ᐱᒥᐦᔮᒥᑭᐦᒡ᙮
•
ᓈᔥᒡ ᒋᔅᑎᒫᐧᐃᓐ ᒑ ᒌ ᓂᑐᒋᔅᒑᔨᒫᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐊᓂᑎᐦ ᐊᓐ ᐊᐹᔨᑯᑖᐅᓯᔮᒃᐦ ᐋᐧᒫᔮᐦ ᒋᐦᒋᐱᔮᒄ, ᒫᔅᑭᓈᐦᒡ ᐊᐱᒥᐲᔮᒄ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒫᒃ ᐊᐱᒥᐦᔮᔮᒄᐦ᙮ (ᐊᒋᓯᓯᑭᔨᓱᔨᓐ, ᒋᑯᐦᑎᔅᑯᔨᓐ ᐋᐦᐋᑯᓯᔨᓐ, ᐋ ᐅᔅᑑᑎᒥᓐ, ᒋᔮᐦᒡ ᐋ ᐃᔮᐦᑯᓯᐅᒥᐦᒋᐧᐃᔨᓐ) ᐊᑳᐧᐄ ᓂᑭᑎᐦ ᐊᓐ ᐄᐦᑖᐧᐃᓐᐦ᙮
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ᐊᓐ ᒫᒃ ᐧᐃᔨ ᒋᐦᒋᓂᐤᐦ ᐊᓂᑎᐦ ᐱᑯᑎᔅᑭᒥᒡ ᐋᐦᑎᑯᐦᐧᑳᐤ ᐊᑎᑎᐤ ᐊᔮᐱᓵᓯᐤ ᐃᔅᐱᐦ ᐧᐄ ᐊᓂᐦᐄ ᒋᒋᓂᐤᐦ ᐄᐦᑖᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ ᐋᐦᑎᑯᒡ, ᐊᑎᑎᐤ ᒋᑭ ᐧᐃ ᐋᔨᒥᐦᐄᐧᐋᐤ ᐄᔭᐱᒡ ᐊᓐ ᔮᐧᑳᐦ ᓈᔥᒡ ᒑ ᒌ ᑎᐦᒄ᙮ ᔮᔨᑖᐃ ᑎᐦᑯᓂᐋᐦᒄ ᐊᓐ ᓲᑉ ᑳ ᐄᔮᔨᐦᑖᒑᐱᔨᒡ ᒑᐧᑳᓐ, ᒑᔅᑭᑦ ᒑ ᐊᐦᑖᑭᒥᐦᑖᔮᒄ ᐊᓐ ᓂᐲ᙮ ᐊᑳᐧᐄ ᐋᐱᒋᐦᑖᒄ ᐊᓂᔮᔨᐤ ᑯᑎᒃ ᐋᐧᐋᓐ ᐄᔮᐱᒋᐦᑖᒡ ᐊᒥᒋᓲᐧᐋᒑᓂᐅᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒫᒃ ᒥᓂᐦᐧᑳᑭᓐ᙮ ᓈᔥᒡ ᓈᑭᑎᐧᐋᔨᒫᐦᑯᒡ ᒋᒋᓵᔨᒥᓅᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒫᒃ ᐊᓂᒌ ᑳ ᐃᔨᔨᒥᓰᒡ ᐄᔨᔨᐅᒡ ᐊᓂᒌ ᒑ ᐧᐃᒑᐧᐋᑯᐦᒡ᙮
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ᐊᑳ ᐹᐧᓵᐱᒥᑐᓈᓂᐅᒡ ᑳᒌᒡ ᒑ ᑐᑎᒫᒄ ᒥᒄ ᐊᔥᐱᔥ ᒋᐦᑐᑎᒫᒄ᙮ ᒥᒄ ᓈᔥᒡ ᓈᑎᐧᐋᔨᐦᑖᑯᓂᐧᑳᐦ᙮
ᐋᑳ ᒫᔪᒥᐦᒋᐦᐆᓈᐦ
ᐊᑳᐧᐄ ᓂᑎᐧᐋᔨᒫᐦᑰᒡ ᐋᐧᐋᓂᒌ ᒑ ᒌ ᐋ ᐹᒡ ᒫᓂᑖᐧᐃᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒫᒃ ᒑ ᒌ ᐹᒡ ᒥᐅᑎᐦᑎᑖᐊᑯᒡ,
ᐋᐦᑖᔨᐦᒄ ᐋ ᒥᔪᐱᒫᑎᓯᒡ ᒋᐹᔨᑯᑖᐅᓯᐧᐃᓈᐦᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᑳ ᓵᒋᐦᐄᐦᑯᒡ ᐊᑎᑎᐤ ᒋᔅᑎᒫᐧᐃᓐ ᐃᔥᐱᔥ ᐧᐃᔨ ᐊᓐ ᐊᔥᐱᔥ ᓂᐱᐦᑖᐊᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᓂᑐᐦᐅᐧᐃᓐ᙮ ᒫᒃ ᐊᓐ ᒑ ᐃᔥᐱᔥ ᑖᔮᒄ ᐊᓂᑎᐦ ᐱᑯᑎᔅᑭᒥᑭᐦᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᔅᑏᐦᑎᐧᐃᓂᐤ, ᔮᐧᑳᒥᓯᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒑᔥᑎᓈᑎᓯᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ᙮
ᒋᐱᑯᓵᔨᒥᑎᓈᓐ
ᓂᐧᐃᐦᑖᓈᓐ ᓈᔥᒡ ᐊᑕᐱᓂᔅᑯᒥᒋᐦᒡ ᐊᓂᒌ ᐋᐱᑎᓰᓯᐅᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒫᒃ ᐊᓂᒌ ᒋᐦᒋᐧᐋ ᐃᑖᐱᑎᓰᓯᐅᒡ ᐊᓂᑎᐦ ᒥᔪᐱᒫᑎᓯᐧᐃᓐ ᐋᐅᐦᒡ ᐱᒥᐲᐦᑖᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ, ᐊᓂᒌ ᐧᐋᒋᐦᒡ ᐄᔮᐱᑎᓰᔅᑎᐧᐋᒡ ᐋᐧᐋᔨᐤ ᐋᐱᑎᓰᓯᐅᒡ, ᑭᔮᐦ ᐊᓂᒌ ᐊᐱᑎᓰᓯᐅᒡ ᐊᓂᑎᐦ ᐄᔮᐱᑎᓰᒡ ᐋ ᐃᔑ ᐱᒥᐲᐦᐧᑖᑭᐧᐃᔨᐦᒄ ᓈᔥᒡ ᓇᑎᐧᐋᔨᐦᑖᑯᐦᒡ ᒫᐧᑳᒡ ᐆ ᓈᔥᒡ ᐋ ᐊᔨᒥᐦᐄᑯᔨᐦᒄ ᐋᐦᑖᔨᐦᒄ᙮ ᒋ ᒥᐧᔮᔨᐦᑖᓈᓂᐤ ᐋ ᒋᔅᒑᔨᐦᑎᒥᐦᒄ ᐋᐦᑖᒡ ᒥᐦᒑᑐ ᐋᐧᐋᓂᒌ ᐊᐱᒋᔅᑎᓂᓲᒡ ᒑ ᒌ ᒥᐧᔮᔨᒧᐦᒄ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒫᒃ ᐃᔮᐧᑳᒥᓯᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ ᐋ ᐋᐱᑎᓰᔅᑖᑎᐦᑯᒡ᙮ ᑭᒫ ᐆᑎᐦ ᐆ ᒑ ᓄᒋᐱᔮᓯᐧᐋᓂᐅᒡ ᐧᐋᐱᐦᑎᔨᑯᔨᐦᒄ ᐋ ᒫᒧᑳᐱᐧᐃᒡ ᐊᔅᑏᐃᔨᔨᒥᓂᐅᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒫᒃ ᐊᓐ ᐋ ᐃᔑ ᓈᑭᑎᐧᐋᔨᒥᑐᔨᐦᒄ ᐊᑎ ᐹᐦᐹᔨᑯᔨᐦᒄ ᐅᑖᐦ ᐄᔨᔨᐤ ᐊᔅᒌᐦᒡ᙮
COVID-19 ᒑ ᒌ ᒥᐧᑖᐦᑖᔨᓐ: 1-866-855-2811 ᑯᓵᐱᐦᒋᑭᓈᔮᐱᐦᒡ ᐅᑎᐦ ᐄᔨᔨᐤ ᐊᔅᒌᐦᒡ: WWW.EEYOUISTCHEECOVID19.ORG www.nationnews.ca April 10, 2020 the Nation
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COVID-19 WE'RE HERE TO HELP Although Beesum is still fully operational, we are taking necessary measures to ensure the safety of our employees and clients in the wake of the COVID-19 virus outbreak. Please take note of the following process for new projects you may need, updates to current project statuses, and our policy for providing a safe working environment in the coming weeks in cooperation with provincial measures. Beesum is still fully operational. All existing and future projects will be conducted as usual, but may incur delays depending on the nature of products needed, as production halts and other external factors outside of Beesum's control may occur. The safety of our employees and clients is our highest priority. Because of this, our employees will work remotely until further notice, but will remain available by phone and email for all client needs, as well as for any existing or new projects. Regular business hours still apply for all contact. We are requesting that client meetings be conducted through telecomunication channels, whether by phone, skype, or other telephone and video conferencing. Please inform us of any needs you require for in-person dealings so that we may meet those needs effectively and safely. We are taking extensive measures to ensure the health and wellness of our staff, and will ensure that any needed sick leave is accommodated and that a new representative will be assigned to any existing or future projects for our clients, should any of our employees fall ill. Our promotional items department is still open, but orders may require extended delivery times due to decreased production in some categories of customizable items. We also understand that these events have created new needs for our clients, including emergency communications tools and informational materials. Please contact us with these needs so that we can advise you on how they can be created in respect to current shut-downs and altered production schedules.
For any questions or concerns regarding existing projects, or to begin a new project with us, please contact us
514-272-3077 | info@beesum.com
26 the Nation April 10, 2020 www.nationnews.ca
Sports
A star from the ’Skag
Jared Hester makes the grade in US college hockey – and in the classroom by Dan Coyle | Photos provided by George Hester
I
t has been a long hockey road for Jared Hester of Waskaganish, one that has now taken him all the way to Wisconsin, where he is enjoying a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) hockey career as a defenceman with the Northland College Lumberjacks. Hockey has been a part of the 22-year-old’s life since he was a boy. Hester first left home a decade ago to play hockey with the Cree Nation Bears, before making the move to Timmins, Ontario, for a season of AAA Midget hockey. He then made the leap to the Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League (NOJHL), where he spent three years patrolling the blue line for the Timmins Rock. Indeed, it was with the Rock that Hester made his hockey breakthrough, cracking the top 10 in scoring among defenceman in the NOJHL during the 2016-17 season with 10 goals and 19 assists in 52 games. Hester continued to improve his game after arriving at Northland College in Ashland, Wisconsin, last season. While he was not racking up the offensive numbers he did in Timmins, he has developed into an all-round big-minute defenceman that the Lumberjacks lean on in all situations, including the power play and penalty. “I like being on the ice,” Hester told the Nation from his home in Waskaganish. “It was a big change adjusting to playing college hockey, playing against men as opposed to teenagers. That means I had to get stronger and learn to play a smarter game.” While Hester still has two years of NCAA eligibility, he hasn’t wasted his time in the classroom as he works toward a degree in business administration. “I would like to continue playing hockey at a high level when I finish college,” Hester explained. “Hopefully I can play pro at some level. But ultimately, I want to come back home and put my education to good use here in the community, helping people to build in my hometown.” The source of Hester’s commitment to community and family is close at hand. His parents, George P. Hester and Janie Wesley-Hester, have always played an important role in his hockey and educational dreams. They remain his biggest fans.
“Jared’s mom and I have always tried to support Jared when it comes to hockey,” said George Hester. “Even when he lived in another town, we always made the drive to see him play and spend as much time with him as we could.” These days, it takes them two days to drive across drive provincial, state and international borders to see their boy play. “It’s a long way to go to see him. Unfortunately, we don’t get the chance to do it as much as we like,” George lamented. But the 1800-kilometre drive proved to be no obstacle when Jared needed his family most. Like so many other colleges and universities across North America, Northland College chose to close its doors as the COVID-19 outbreak widened in mid-March. With just five days notice, Jared was forced to vacate his living space at the school and race home before the border between Canada and the United States closed. George wasted no time driving to Wisconsin to ensure his son returned home safe. While the decision meant that both father and son would have to endure lengthy self-isolation upon their return, what mattered most was getting Jared home safe and sound. “It was a little bit scary with everything going on, and then having just five days to pack up and leave,” Jared recounted. “Fortunately, the hockey season was already over, and I was happy to see my parents.” The journey had already been in the planning, George noted. “But it is good to have our son home with us. And now that we are out of isolation, I look forward to spending some time in the bush.”
“It was a little bit scary with everything going on, and then having just five days to pack up and leave... Fortunately, the hockey season was already over, and I was happy to see my parents” - Jared Hester
www.nationnews.ca April 10, 2020 the Nation 27
For more info...
Jordan’s Principle Office Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay (CBHSSJB) 418-923-3355 x42186 18tcr.jordans.principle@ssss.gouv.qc.ca creehealth.org/jp
Individual Applications for Eeyou Istchee
The legacy of Jordan River Anderson
Jordan was born in Norway House Cree Nation, Manitoba in 1999, with multiple disabilities and stayed in the hospital from birth. When he was 2 years old, doctors said he could move to a special home for his medical needs. However, the federal and provincial governments could not agree on who should pay for his home-based care. Jordan passed away in the hospital at the age of 5. In 2007, the House of Commons passed Jordan’s Principle in memory of Jordan. Today, Jordan’s Principle is a legal obligation, which means it has no end date—it will support First Nations children for generations to come.
Is your child eligible for Jordan’s Principle?
Current eligibility criteria under Jordan’s Principle are: • 0 to 18 years old • Must have a band number (or parents’ band number, if not yet assigned)
24-hour Jordan’s Principle Helpline
1-855-572-4453 Your child does not have to have a disability to be covered under Jordan’s Principle.
ᓂᔪᐧᒫᓂᕪ ᐁᓕᐧᓈᕐ ᒋᐱᑯᓵᔨᒥᑯᐧᐋᐅᒡ ᒑ ᒌ ᒥᔪᐱᔨᐧᐋᒄ ᔮᐧᑳᒥᓯᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ ᒫᐧᑳᒡ ᐋᐦᑖᔮᒄᐦ ᐊᓂᑎᐦ ᐱᑯᑎᔅᑭᒥᒡ ᐆ ᒑ ᐊᑎ ᐅᑎᐦᒋᐱᔨᒡ ᐋ ᓄᒋᐲᔮᓯᐧᐋᓂᐧᐃᒡ᙮ ᒑ ᒥᐧᔮᐃᐦᑎᒫᒃ ᒌᔨᐧᐋᐤ ᓈᑑᐦᐆᔮᒄᐦ ᐋᓰᑯᐦᒡ ᓂᑑᐦᐅᐄᔨᔨᑑᒄ!
28 the Nation April 10, 2020 www.nationnews.ca
“ᐃᔅᐱᐦ ᑳ ᐹᔅᒎᑦ ᐹᔨᒄ ᐱᔮᓯᐤ ᐋ ᐱᒥᐦᔮᑦ ᒥᓯᐧᐋ ᒋ ᐹᔅᐧᒑᐅᒡ ᐲᔭᓯᐅᒡ ᐋ ᐱᒥᐦᔮᒡ, ᒥᓯᐧᐋᐦ ᐧᐋᔥ ᐃᔨᐦᒡ ᐃᔑᓈᑯᓯᐅᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒥᓯᐧᐋᐦ ᐃᔨᐦᒡ ᐃᔑ ᐱᒥᐦᔮᐅᒡ ᒥᒄ ᒫᒃ ᐊᓐ ᐊᑎᒥᐦᒋᐧᐃᓈᓂᐅᒡ ᐹᔨᑯᓂᐦᒡ ᐄᑖᔨᐦᑖᑯᓐ ᐊᓐ ᒫᐦᒡ ᐄᔮᐱᒡ ᐊᒄ ᐊᔥᐱᔥ ᒥᐧᔮᔨᐦᑖᑯᐦᒡ ᑳ ᐄᑖᔨᐦᑖᑯᓐ ᐊᓐ ᒫᐅᒡ ᓃᔥᑎᒻ” - ᐃᕐᓂᔅᑦ ᐦᐊᒥᓐᒃᐧᐋᔨ, ᐆᐦᑖᐧᐃᒫᐅᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᐅᑯᓰᓯᒫᐅᒡ᙮
1933
WORKING TOGETHER FOR SAFER AND ENGAGED COMMUNITIES
You have a project that could help make your community a better place?
Apply now CREE JUSTICE FUNDS
YOUTH ENGAGEMENT FUND
CRIME PREVENTION FUND
Through these funds, the DOJCS (Department of Justice and Correctional Services) provides financial assistance to community members willing to implement initiatives that facilitate and improve the administration of justice for the Crees across Eeyou Istchee.
Be engaged.
Make a difference.
DOJCS – Department of Justice and Correctional Services creejusticefunds.ca T: 418-923-2661 www.nationnews.ca April 10, 2020 the Nation 29
Arts
Hitmakers in the making
Workshop in Chisasibi encourages kids to explore songwriting by Julie McIntosh | Photos by Eric Grimstead
T
he lively sounds of high-pitched fiddling, tinkling piano keys and twanging guitar strings filled the hallways of Chisasibi’s James Bay Eeyou School with reimagined tunes and original songs performed by the very same people who walked the halls.
The CMEB Aims to
• Assist the Crees in accessing mineral exploration opportunities. • Facilitate the development of mineral exploration enterprises with Cree entrepreneurship. • Help encourage the Crees and Cree enterprises to benefit from Quebec’s regular funding programs as well as other provincial assistance allocated to mineral exploration activities. • Act as the main intermediary between offers and demands of services made to Cree enterprises in matters relating to mineral exploration. THE CREE MINERAL EXPLORATION BOARD 21 Hilltop, P.O. Box 150 Wemindji, QC J0M 1L0 T: 819-978-0264 x327
cmeb.org
Before schools shut down, for four days and three nights (March 11-14), a group of Secondary 2 and 3 students reinterpreted and composed melodies with the help of acclaimed Canadian singer-songwriter Craig Cardiff. In between performances and recordings, Cardiff leads music workshops in schools across Canada, guiding students to writing songs about what’s important to them and their community. In Chisasibi, some of the students were more musically inclined, others leaned towards writing lyrics, but all were hungry to create a song that comes from personal experience. “One activity was re-writing a favourite song,” said Cardiff. “One student liked Lady Gaga’s Shallow and re-wrote it. He played with the idea of ‘deep’, what the song makes us think about, and got other students to contribute as well,” said Cardiff. Somewhat surprised, Principal Eric Grimstead noted how students steadily acclimatized to the visitor with a calm demeanour and rich singing voice as he taught them about his own experience overcoming barriers in songwriting and performance. Of the 12 participants, some were shy, others showed their musical prowess on the piano and loop pedals. By the end of the three days, the students and Cardiff felt confident enough to sing together. “They felt safe, and comfortable,” reflected Grimstead. “Craig set it up so that it was an environment where they were totally supported, and never put on the spot.”
30 the Nation April 10, 2020 www.nationnews.ca
The students who were less interested in writing and composing were able to use the pedal bag that Cardiff brought with him. This instrument includes a mixing board, a looping pedal and a controller. Cardiff recalls one of the quieter students mixing the fiddle with the looping pedal to create unique sounds. “I want them to see that what we started and what we were able to finish in a short period of time is achievable by them,” he said. Cardiff’s workshop grew with little fanfare. From Wednesday to Saturday the murmurs created in the classroom circulated throughout the Chisasibi community. Cardiff’s thoughtful and creative teaching grew into a wave that rippled over students’ defensive barriers. Few showed up at the beginning of the workshop, but more students began peeking around the corner and eventually showed up to school on Saturday. Even the school maintenance officer stepped in to play a few tunes on the fiddle. Most of Cardiff’s own memories of school are connected to music. He is passionate about music and it’s why he feels lucky to be able to balance these school workshops with his professional work. Initially there was no plan to have JBES students perform at the Addictions Awareness Week concert on Friday, March 13. But an enthused Principal Grimstead worked his contacts and managed to convince organizers to squeeze them into the line-up.
Feeding
community At First Nations Bank, we honour the return of geese to this land and how they bring us closer together for feasts and kinship. Wishing everyone a happy goose break and successful hunt.
Stay Safe
fnbc.ca
With a newfound confidence and the determination to perform, students carefully wrapped up the school piano and moved it with nimble coordination to the concert hall. “It was very sweet and inspiring, just how much pride they showed in moving the piano,” said Cardiff. Then he added, “Three of the students who took the workshops, we’re going to hear about them in the future.” There were about 100 people in the audience that evening, said Grimstead. Students performed original songs on the piano, guitar and vocals, while others were accompanied by Cardiff. He also played a few of his hits, including songs from his acclaimed album Cut to Ribbons. Not to be outdone, local fiddler Conrad Rupert joined Cardiff onstage. On Saturday, Cardiff and the students discussed how to record the music they had created. Then he gave the school a parting gift – his looping pedal bag. Cardiff is no stranger to performance. He is a Juno-nominated musician, with 12 albums in his repertoire, and a schedule that swings him back and forth across the globe. One could say his workshops are a comfortable antithesis of a fast-paced lifestyle, and a way to give back to the community of musicians. “He was really focused on the kids,” noted Grimstead. “I admired that, because it was never about himself.” Students will have to decide what to do with their pieces. There’s a buzz about them going up on Cardiff’s Spotify channel, but he was quick to point out that any revenue generated would go directly to JBES. “That’s pretty cool,” said Grimstead. “We could use the money to buy more instruments.” This comes after news that the New Paths for Education program – which funds Cree culture, language and student engagement programs such as this – is in danger to being shut down.
Have a safe Goose Break! Distributor of petroleum products and lubricants in the James Bay Territory, and Abitibi-Temiscamingue
www.nationnews.ca April 10, 2020 the Nation 31
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32 the Nation April 10, 2020 www.nationnews.ca
We are closed now. We will see you hopefully in May. Keep safe & healthy on Goose Break!
ᐋᐱᑎᓰᐧᐃᓐᐦ ᐋ ᐋᐱᐦᐊᔥᑖᒡᐦ NEW JOB POSTINGS
COMMUNITY WORKER YOUTH PROTECTION RECALL LIST Positions available in all communities | Salary: Min. (1) $23.12 - Max. (12) $33.61
Summary of the Position In accordance with the policy and procedures of the CBHSSJB and within the framework of the Youth Criminal Justice Act, Youth Protection Act, L.H.S.S.S. and CMC mandate, the person will have to meet and intervene with people (individuals, families & community). Specific Functions Person who participates in the identification of the needs of the population, participates in the community organization and development, and executes different action programs by using appropriate techniques. May act as a resources person for the groups. For more information about the position or to apply Please contact: Kevin Zagoté Tel: (819) 855-2744 ext 22184 Email: jobs.reg18@ssss.gouv.qc.ca
Educational Requirements – CEGEP diploma with a core concentration in techniques of social work or a CEGEP certificate in social techniques or social counseling techniques. Knowledge and Abilities – Proper knowledge of the social environment; – Ability to communicate with people, to run interviews and to establish and maintain a "helping relationship with beneficiaries"; – Ability to work in collaboration with C.S.S. Community workers, medical and social services staff and other organisms within and outside the community; – Valid driver’s permit class 4B meeting the standards of the Société d'assurance automobile du Québec and the Ministère des Transports du Québec; – Excellent driving record: Driving Record Request (SAAQ clic online Services – Citizens). Language – Fluent in Cree and English and able to write short reports in English. Premiums – retention, northern allowance and cargo www.nationnews.ca April 10, 2020 the Nation 33
DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE & CORRECTIONAL SERVICES
COURT NOTICE Due to the inevitable context with the COVID-19, the services in the courthouse are reduced. We recommend that: • If you have a lawyer, communicate with him/her. • If you don’t have a lawyer, you should communicate with the judicial services at 1-866-699-9729. • If you want to communicate with the court services, call at 1-866-226-9860 ext. 64992
Chisasibi (819) 855-2120
• If you are a Crown witness, call 1-819-964-2497 or 819-444-5345.
Eastmain (819) 977-240
Mistissini (418) 923-266
T H A N K Y O U F O R Y O U R C O L L A B O R AT I O N Chisasibi (819) 855-2120
Nemaska (819) 673-2400
Waswanipi (819) 753-2770
Eastmain (819) 977-2400
Oujé-Bougoumou (418) 745-2260
Wemindji (819) 978-3300
Mistissini (418) 923-2661
Waskaganish (819) 895-2126
Whapmagoostui (819) 929-3796
34 the Nation April 10, 2020 www.nationnews.ca
Stay healthy my friends by Sonny Orr
Rez Notes
W
ell, what can I say! The world is in sleep mode, a quiet panic that fortunately hasn’t spilled out onto the streets. People everywhere are staying indoors as much as possible to avoid being infected with the now infamous virus. I don’t want to say its name because it’s ingrained in my psyche and no matter what, I can’t wash it away. So there, I won’t mention it. A long time ago, well before any medicines were invented by mistake, we had medicines that helped us stay alive over thousands of years. Back then, isolation was standard, and no one carried anything dangerous in their bodies. After the year 1500, diseases were rampant and killed nearly everyone, except for those who weren’t in contact with anything contagious. But then came contact with Europeans, and diseases spread rapidly. During the 20th century, we had to deal with influenza, chicken pox, measles, scarlet fever and numerous other diseases. In the 1960s, vaccinations became common practice and people felt safe… for a while. Today, we face a new disease and it seems that the only cure is prevention – being smart enough to do the right things and avoid it altogether. I could surmise that this disease can be spread by stupidity, arrogance and self-importance, but try telling that to a microscopic virus, let alone a human. As we stand together outside, waiting for the sirens to announce the nightly curfew, we marvel at the incredible light show offered by the new
system designed to keep us all connected via a blistering fast internet service delivered from the stars above. Again, unless you were on the moon for the past few years and watched an electric car fly by heading towards the sun, there’s no need for me to mention his name. According to him, we will move to Mars and inhabit the Red Planet. We will leave this dying one and start all over again, this time equipped with amazing technology and not just a few fig leaves. It seems like a far-off dream, but who would have imagined that the entire world would shut down human activity, that thousands of satellites would be launched and even the idea of a large celestial object turning into a comet could happen
just four months ago. Certainly not me! It caught me off guard, and most likely it’s the same for a few billion other people. Ahhh, this year has started off with fireworks and crazy stuff, and it’s only month four. What’s next? I’m afraid to ask. I guess that humanity, with all its fallible mixtures of cultures and strengths, will prevail. But like I said, it’s something we will have to outsmart before it turns us into a submissive society. Sooner or later, we will trade all this madness for a juicy steak in a sit-down restaurant while quaffing some aged beer. It will probably be later. In the past, I would have been tempted to go out after curfew, but this time, I don’t think so. Stay healthy and smart my friends!
★★★★ We are open if you need a place to stay in Montreal.
Proud to be of service to the First Nations Have a safe Goose Break
Your Account Manager: Laila Elmtouni T: 514-931-0961 ext. 2683 Email: lelmtouni@lenouvelhotel.com
www.nationnews.ca April 10, 2020 the Nation 35
Smoke Alarms As always, the safety of our guests and team members is our #1 priority. ᒨᔥ, ᔮᐧᑳᒥᓯᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ ᐊᓂᒌ ᐱᔮᒋᔅᑖᒡ ᓂᒫᓂᑖᒥᓈᓂᒡ ᐅᑎᐦ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒫᒃ ᐊᓂᒌ ᐃᔮᐱᑎᓰᒡ ᐅᑎᐦ ᐋᔪᐧᐃᒄ ᓈᔥᑖᒥᔥᑖᒡ ᐅᔮᔨᐤ᙮
In response to the COVID-19 situation and following the government’s precautionary measures, we will temporarily suspend all services at the Quality Inn & Suites Val-d’Or as of March 24. ᐆ ᑭᔮᐦ ᐋ ᐃᔑ ᑐᑖᑭᓂᐅᒡ ᐅᐦᒋ ᐆ ᐋᐦᑯᓯᐧᐃᓐ COVID-19 ᒫᐧᑳᒡ ᐋ ᐱᒥᐱᔨᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᐋ ᑐᑖᑭᓂᐧᐃᔨᒡ ᐊᓂᔮᔨᐤ ᑳ ᐃᔑ ᐃᔮᐧᑳᒥᓯᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ ᑳ ᐃᔑ ᐧᐃᔨᓲᐧᐋᑦ ᑎᐹᔨᐦᒋᒑᓯᐤ, ᓂᑭ ᒋᐱᐦᐋᓈᓐ ᐧᐋᔨᐱᔥᒋᔥ ᒥᓯᐧᐋ ᐊᓐ ᑳ ᐃᔑ ᐱᒥᐲᐦᑖᔮᐦᒡ ᐅᑎᐦ ᑯᐧᐋᓕᑏ ᓂᐹᐅᑭᒥᒄᐦ ᐅᑎᐦ ᕙᓪᐧᑖᕐ ᐅᑎᐦ ᐅᔅᑭᒡ ᒥᒋᓯᐅᐲᓯᒽ 24᙮
We
plan to re-open on May 1, 2020. Keep safe. B Happy Goose Break to all! ᒥᓐ ᒫᒃ ᐧᐋ ᐊᐱᐦᐋᒫᐦᒡ ᐋᔑᐧᒫᑯᐲᓯᒽ 1, 2020᙮ ᐃᔮᐧᑳᒥᓰᔨᒄᐦ᙮ ᒥᓯᐙ ᒑ ᒥᔻᔨᐦᑎᒫᒄ ᒑ ᓅᒋᐱᔮᓱᐙ ᔮᒄ᙮ Working together to Flatten the Curve ᒫᒨ ᐋ ᐧᐃᒑᐱᑎᓰᑐᔨᐦᒄ ᒑ ᒌ ᓂᐱᒋᓂᒥᐦᒄ ᐊᓐ ᐋᐧᐋᑳᒡ Wash your hands frequently ᒑᔅᑭᑦ ᒑ ᒌᔅᑖᐹᐅᑎᐦᒑᔨᓐ Avoid touching your face ᐊᑳᐧᐄ ᑖᐦᒋᓐ ᒋᔥᑖᔥᑎᒥᐦᒄ Limit contact with others ᐊᑳᐧᐄ ᐹᐧᔖᒥᒡ ᑯᑎᑭᐦᒡ
Practice good cough and sneezing etiquette ᑯᐧᑳᒋᐦ ᑯᐃᔅᒄ ᐃᔮᐧᑳᒥᓯᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ ᒑ ᒌ ᐃᔑ ᐅᔅᑑᑎᒥᓐ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒫᒃ ᒑ ᑎᔨᓐ ᐃᔮᐧᑳᒥᓯᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ ᐋ ᐊᔨᔨᒧᔨᓐ Practice social distancing ᑯᐧᑳᒋᐦ ᐋᑳ ᒑ ᒌ ᐹᐧᓵᐱᒥᑦ ᑯᑎᒃ ᐋᐧᐋᓐ
Stay home, Stay safe ᒌᐦᒋᐦᒡ ᑖᐦ, ᐃᔮᐧᑳᒥᓯᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ ᑖᐦ᙮
36 the Nation April 10, 2020 www.nationnews.ca
It is 3am in the morning and something is burning and smells of smoke, a fabric has been inside the baseboard heater for awhile now and it slowly smoulders and produces toxic smoke throughout the house. But there is no re yet. The smoke alarm is not sounding. Hmm, why is the smoke alarm not sounding? How can people sleeping know the house is lled with smoke, shouldn’t the smoke alarm be working to detect the smoke? Fact: Not everyone can smell smoke while they are asleep. This happens a lot in homes with smoke alarms, people reporting about smoke alarms that did not sound when something had been burned while cooking. The reason is the type of smoke alarm that is installed. Why you should know the type of smoke alarm you have in your home. There are 2 types of smoke alarms and how they detect smoke is a little bit different. The # 1 smoke alarm that is installed in homes is the Ionization smoke alarm, because of the low cost. This type of smoke alarm can detect fast aming res, which gives of tiny particles of smoke. Let’s say your making toast or opening the oven and the smoke alarm sounds even when you don’t see smoke, why? Its because Ionization smoke alarms detect smoke that are very tiny, that are invisible to the naked eye. One particle of smoke is 1 micron. An example is; if you take one strand of hair which is 80 to 100 microns and magnify it 100x, the tiny ti smoke particle you would see is 1 micron of smoke. This is what the Ionization smoke alarms detect. The 2nd type of smoke alarm is the photoelectric smoke alarm which costs a bit more. They detect large particles of smoke, which are visible. They detect smouldering res. An example is: materials/items that do not easily burn but burned materials that give off smoke either with very little re or no re at all, or just the burned material/items being heated and producing lots of smoke. The thing that cannot be predicted is “WHEN” a re will happen, what material will burn and will the material give off, lots of smoke or a fast aming re. The 3rd device that I recommend is having a carbon monoxide detector in the home, even though a home does not use or have a replace. Because every re whether it is fast aming or smouldering with only just smoke, always produces carbon monoxide. The carbon monoxide in the smoke is what kills people, every re uses up the oxygen in the air and people only breathe in what is in the smoke and become oxygen starved. By having these 3 detection devices or a combination of the three, installed in the home can detect what the re or heated materials will give off. A fast aming re, smouldering smoke or the carbon monoxide from re or smoke.
Stay safe
There is a nationwide settlement to compensate Survivors of Federal Indian Day Schools and
Federal Day Schools If you attended one of these schools, this may be an important step in your healing journey.
To find out if you are eligible for compensation and how you can make a claim, go to indiandayschools.com or call us at 1.888.221.2898
Let’s take this next step together. www.nationnews.ca April 10, 2020 the Nation 37
Under the Northern Sky
Time to wear a mask by Xavier Kataquapit
UTNS
A
Have a safe Goose Break! dany.trottier@harmoniaassurance.com
www.underthenorthernsky.com
sking people to wear a mask in public during a pandemic of a deadly respiratory disease would seem logical. Unfortunately, information and recommendations on the subject are contradictory. Now, however, medical experts are starting to support the idea. Given the shortage of medical-grade surgical masks, they should be reserved only for health professionals. One way of securing this supply is to educate the community on how to make and use a homemade mask while stressing that they are not a replacement for safe practices recommended by healthcare professionals. We still need to practice proper hand washing, physical distancing and staying at home. Wearing a mask should be for those of us who must go out in public. Some experts advise against wearing a mask unless you are sick, in a hospital, caring for the sick or have tested positive. Unfortunately, no one knows if they are positive unless they are tested, while those who are healthy are not tested unless they have been known to be exposed to the virus. This means that there are many individuals in the public who are asymptomatic or show no signs of sickness and may be unknowingly spreading the virus. In fact, no one knows who carries the virus unless we find a way to test every single person. Despite this, we have not been conducting sufficient tests in this country. One possible way to protect against asymptomatic individuals is to have everyone wear masks as we don’t know who is infected and who is not. One argument against wearing masks is that it would “provide a false sense of security.” The same was said about frequent hand washing but an education campaign was launched to insist on the practice as a primary prevention measure. In the same way, if our medical experts could guide us on the best practices of using a homemade mask, then wearing one could be a safer alternative to being completely exposed to an infectious virus in public spaces. Discouraging the public from wearing any kind of mask runs counter to the scientific research. A recent opinion column by Jeremy Howard in the Washington Post noted that 34 scientific papers
38 the Nation April 10, 2020 www.nationnews.ca
have indicated that basic masks can be effective in reducing virus transmission. Yet his research team could not find any paper that showed evidence that the public use of masks did not work. If more people wore masks, it would protect the most vulnerable – people who work at grocery stores, pharmacies, food services, post offices and in other public spaces. These essential workers need to be protected because we need them to keep working, yet they are exposed daily to the possibility of infection. Wearing masks could help stem the tide of infection and help medical workers by easing the number of patients heading into our overcrowded hospitals. Countries like South Korea and Taiwan demonstrated that encouraging the public to wear masks has helped slow the pace of infection. European nations like the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Austria are now making it mandatory to wear masks in public and there are signs that the rates of infection are slowing there. Meanwhile, in the United States, where infection rates are soaring, the wearing of masks is not promoted. I see the use of masks as an easy added level of protection for our First Nations. Although the federal government has announced funding for First Nations it does not seem to be sufficient to protect communities. Chronic underfunding has resulted in crowded housing, a lack of clean water and inadequate health services. All that makes us vulnerable. Manufacturing and distributing homemade masks could be a simple solution that uses available resources, can be done immediately and maintained indefinitely. If adopted, this requires no extra government funding and involves the efforts of local people. Combined with the guidance and education of medical experts on their use, care and maintenance, it would help slow the rate of infections and buy these communities critical time. Anyone can make their own mask by simply googling the information and following instructions in the many videos suggested. Our First Nations will need every level of protection they can get. Wearing a mask is a simple solution that has been proven to work.
COVID-19
ᔦᐦᔦᐙᔅᐱᓀᐎᓐ ᐁ ᐋᔔᒦᑐᓈᓅᒡ
ARE YOU WORRIED ? ᒋᒥᑯᔅᑳᑖᔨᐦᑕᓈ chi mikuskâtâyihtanâ
WWW
WEBSITE EEYOUISTCHEECOVID19.ORG
INFO-LINE
PSYCHOSOCIAL HELPLINE
1 866 855-2811
1 833 6 3 2 -H ELP ( 4 3 5 7 )
PROTECT YOUR LOVED ONES AND STAY HOME ᒌᒋᐦᒡ ᐃᐦᑖᐦ ᐁᒄ ᒉ ᒥᔪᑲᓇᐧᐁᔨᒥᐧᑖᐤ ᑳ ᓵᒋᐦᐄᐧᑖᐤ chîchihch ihtâh ekw che miyukanaweyimitwâu kâ sâchihîtwâu
Your Northern Airline of Choice creebec
Air Creebec is operating by respecting and exceeding the rules with extensive cleaning and disinfecting of the aircraft, social distancing on board and at all service counters. We encourage everyone to respect the rules and to stay safe.
For the latest Air Creebec updates, please visit aircreebec.ca/covid19 40 the Nation April 10, 2020 www.nationnews.ca