Issuu

We can gradually restart normal activities while protecting ourselves! Information and advice inside.

20-210-125FA_Formats-promo_EN_.indd 9

20-05-07 08:20

www.nationnews.ca June 5, 2020 the Nation 1

Even during a pandemic,

you can consult a professional.

If you need a medical consultation and have no symptoms of the flu, gastroenteritis or COVID-19, contact: - your family doctor - your medical clinic - your family medicine group - or Info-Santé 811 if you don’t have a doctor to get a consultation over the phone or, if needed, in person.

Cough into your sleeve

Wash your hands

Keep your distance

Wear a mask

(if less than 2 metres)

Let’s keep at it. Let’s continue to protect ourselves.

Québec.ca/coronavirus 1 877 644-4545 2 the Nation June 5, 2020 www.nationnews.ca

CONTENTS 5 Covid-19 update

EDITORIAL

Covid conspiracies

NEWS

Winning the battle

A light at the end of the tunnel

IN BRIEF FEATURES

Celebrations locked down 10

Eeyou Istchee’s deconfinement plan

Indigenous Peoples Day goes virtual

Community

Health

Helter shelter

Low-risk travel

Indigenous health data

PUZZLES REZ NOTES

The art of spending money

UTNS Learning in a dangerous time

We can gradually restart normal activities while protecting ourselves! Information and advice inside.

20-210-125FA_Formats-promo_EN_.indd 9

Outbreak at Montreal’s Native Women’s Shelter

Avoid at-risk areas

The InfoPoint ‘helpful desk’

20-05-07 08:20

Photo by Sherry Brunet

www.nationnews.ca June 5, 2020 the the Nation Nation 3 3

Editorial

Covid conspiracies by Will Nicholls

Editorial

ne can’t go on social media without being inundated by conspiracy theories. They include everything from a fake moon landing to aliens being dissected in Roswell by the Illuminati. The latest conspiracy craze concerns Covid-19 and is infecting minds faster than the pandemic has spread around the world. These stories gain traction during times of uncertainty and fear, as we have seen in the economic and health impacts of the pandemic. Latching on to these theories is a way of trying to understand and come to terms with that. It’s a human thing amidst great changes to personal, family and work life. My favourite is that the virus doesn’t really exist. I guess neither does SARS, diabetes and a host of other health problems. Ignoring or denying the existence of a health problem never works. And if it didn’t exist then someone would have spilled the beans by now. There’s the idea that an electro-magnetic field carries and spreads the virus while weakening the immune system. That’s why some are saying that the new 5G wireless communication system is to blame. Tons of fools believe this, and this disinformation is blamed for

The real conspiracy is that people will write anything on social media and will not back up their reasoning with facts a series of arsons of 5G towers north of Montreal. Back in the real world, the World Health Organization says the only way to be infected is from water droplets expelled from a person who carries the virus or by touching a surface or material that has the virus on it. Misinformation about Covid-19 is dangerous. A prime example of this was when US president Donald Trump said that household disinfectants could help combat the sickness. Within hours New York’s poison control staff received calls concerning bleach, Lysol and other cleaning products. You will usually see a skull-

and-crossbones symbol on these products indicating they are poisonous and should not be ingested. Another harmful belief is that the virus only affects Elders. Older people are hit harder and have higher death rates, but it has affected all ages. Infants are a vulnerable population also. It hits babies under a year old particularly bad as more than half the cases to date have been deemed critical. There are also tons of scams. Do not be taken in by them. There is no proven homeopathic solution. There is no immune booster guaranteed to make you safe. There is no vaccine that the government or medical

Your home is your oasis! Stay in comfort! Stay safe!

community is hiding from you, but is secretly available at a special price. Neither is this a bioweapon that the Chinese government unleashed on the world. It has been examined and was not created in a laboratory. The real conspiracy is that people will write anything on social media and will not back up their reasoning with facts. It’s up to you to verify information from credible sources. As they say, “Buyer beware.” If you buy into nonsense, you have spent your time and money for nothing.

Nature still can do a better job at designing a virus than any person could. - Robert Garry

Amazing Promotions Now!! See our 2nd ad for all the details…

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, L. Madill 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 June 5, 2020 www.nationnews.ca

CMCA AUDITED

News

Winning the battle

The latest on Covid-19 in Eeyou Istchee by Lachlan Madill

ith no new Covid-19 cases reported, the number in the territory remains stable at 10. This means Eeyou Istchee has one of the lowest regional case rates in Quebec. In her weekly update, Cree Health Board chairperson Bella Petawabano said this is something to be proud of. “This has been achieved through a very cautious approach that includes strict limits on travel, and proactive testing and contact tracing,” she said. Only one active case remains, with two deaths and seven people having completely recovered. CBH has done 416 tests to date with 395 returning negative and 11 awaiting results. There were also 57 asymptomatic screening tests, which health authorities say take longer for results. As deconfinement starts rolling out across Quebec and the various health regions, Petawabano stressed that Eeyou Istchee will not be following the rest of the province in that plan. She stated that there will be “different rules and regulations” as

well as a slower deconfinement than the rest of Quebec. The low number of infections signals that the way things have been handled in Eeyou Istchee has been effective. “If this trend continues, the people should be confident that the region is Covid-19 free, and people should feel confident to travel between communities,” said Petawabano. Up to this point, the 10 cases have been traced back to outside the territory via air travel to Montreal and internationally. Jason Coonishish, the coordinator of Prehospital and Emergency Measures with the CBH, says that the risk now is community transmission. “Now it’s going to a different level because transmission is going to be travelling by vehicles when people travel to other regions,” he noted. Coonishish said there is a plan in place for that because of deconfinement rollout across the province. He explained that the 14-day self-isolation law for people returning from

Up to this point, the 10 cases have been traced back to outside the territory through air travel to Montreal and internationally

certain high-rish regions is a result of that. As for the plan, checkpoints will be set up with local community Covid teams and other health authorities to screen people entering Eeyou Istchee communities to help contain any future outbreaks. “We will be asking questions to find out their names, addresses and phone numbers, and where they’ve been, and for how long,” Coonishish said. The information gives contact-tracing teams a head start if someone entering a communi-

ty begins to exhibit symptoms and shows up at a clinic, said Coonishish. “That way we can contain it fast.” So far, the measures like the house service for suspect cases and lodgings provided to isolate people for 14 days have worked, he said. Coonishish meets regularly with the heads of Emergency Measures of the other 17 health regions, which all have developed their own plans. As for Eeyou Istchee plans, he said, “We’re the Cree and we’ve adapted to our needs.”

www.nationnews.ca June 5, 2020 the Nation 5

Eeyou Istchee transitions towards deconfinement one step at a time by Patrick Quinn

o date, Eeyou Istchee has achieved the lowest rate of confirmed Covid-19 cases among the regions of Quebec, placing the Cree Nation in an enviable position to gradually loosen some precautionary measures and slowly transition towards a new normal. With restrictions taking their toll on mental, social and economic wellbeing, Cree communities are moving forward with a five-phase deconfinement plan. Considering the unique health vulnerabilities and immense geographical area of Eeyou Istchee, the plan is much different than what is happening in the rest of Quebec. A key part of deconfinement is a new law requiring mandatory 14-day self-isolation for anyone coming from areas or jobs deemed “at-risk”. The latter includes mining sites, forestry camps and Hydro-Québec facilities. The law enables communities to publish a list of those required to self-isolate and the date when the requirement expires to help with compliance and clarity. “Top priority for us is preventing Covid from coming into Cree communities,” said CNG executive director Bill Namagoose. “Once it comes in, we don’t have the capacity or resources to resolve the issue. The cases we’ve had have all been

6 the Nation June 5, 2020 www.nationnews.ca

imported. There’s been no spread within Cree communities. We’d like to keep that momentum.” While the Mandatory SelfIsolation Law will inconvenience certain workers and people wanting to travel outside the region, CNG secretary Paul John Murdoch emphasized self-isolation isn’t intended to be a “prison sentence”. It requires maintaining a two-metre distance from others, avoiding public places, not inviting others to your home, wearing a mask when outside or with others, and maintaining basic hygiene measures. “This law supersedes laws of the provincial or federal government,” said Murdoch. “It doesn’t matter who you are. If the premier of Quebec decides to visit one of our communities, I hope he has 15 days or else it’s not going to be much of a visit because he would be subject to this law.” While the “at-risk” areas could change over time, it currently includes anywhere south of Lebelsur-Quévillon and east of Mistissini. People may travel between Cree or Inuit communities and towns such as Matagami and Chibougamau in Region 10 without self-isolating. After long discussions in Chisasibi, it was decided Radisson is considered

A light at the end of the tunnel low-risk as Hydro-Québec ensured its workers will avoid the community’s public areas. Under specific conditions, Cree governments or the health board may grant exemptions to the law for patients who have completed self-isolation in other areas, professionals in case of emergency or, theoretically, patients who pass more advanced future testing. Communities also maintain the power to enact their own stricter isolation measures. Considering Eeyou Istchee’s connections to Montreal, the pandemic’s Canadian epicentre, Cree leadership felt an urgency to control community access. If the situation remains stable in the weeks following Goose Break, Phase 1 of deconfinement will begin when Sûreté du Québec checkpoints into the region come down, which is expected to happen by June 9. Outdoor activities, two-household gatherings and some non-essential healthcare services can resume at that time. Public health will monitor the situation for at least two weeks before proceeding to the next phase, looking at both the number of cases and the system’s capability to manage them. “By June 9, there should be an announcement on which clinics will be able to do what,” said Dr. Faisca

Richer, CBHSSJB public health another, they’re going to have to wear director. “Managers of the clinics masks and gloves. We’re working are evaluating the priorities in their with our occupational health team to population and whether they have train people before we start.” the workforce. Dentistry is probaIn Phase 2, local businesses can bly something that will be reopening reopen, small indoor private gatherings become possooner rather than sible and all other later.” health services can Covid-19 testing gradually resume. will be expanded Phase 3 allows to people returning to job sites and medium-scale private and public asymptomatic community members gatherings as well returning to their as the reopening of communities in the personal services, coming weeks to restaurants, daycares and schools. ensure the situation remains safe. Phase 4 will Testing is also allow larger public gatherings and being offered to all - Dr. Faisca Richer, CBHSSJB the reopening of all frontline workers – public health director. other businesses, for instance, ambulance drivers, clinincluding recreaic staff and police tional and entertainment activiofficers. Although it ties. Community has been challenging to find sufficient checkpoints will be lab technicians so far, they hope to removed at the very end, along with test at least 10 people a day in each any other remaining measures, in community. Phase 5. “Reopening doesn’t mean we stop Richer said the health board will physical distancing,” Richer told the try to work with specialists from outNation. “For periods when it’s not side the territory willing to self-isopossible to be two metres from one late. While the new law will postpone

Reopening doesn’t mean we stop physical distancing

many larger projects, local construction is set to resume in Phase 1. “We’re going to be starting construction activities that use local labour only,” Namagoose told the Nation. “I’m talking about the Cree Nation Government projects. Larger projects need surveyors, engineers and architectural technicians who we don’t have in the Cree world.” In the recent deconfinement livestream, CBHSSJB chairperson Bella Moses Petawabano had some guidance for walking out ceremonies. She advised hosting a smaller ceremony with close family, limiting the number inside the teepee to only immediate family. If serving food, choose a server with a mask to prepare the plates rather than having a buffet. Although Eeyou Istchee is doing very well with only one active case, the pandemic is far from over in Quebec. Richer said it’s a time to be hopeful but not to let our guards down. “I would like to remind people that the worst of the situation is behind us,” said Richer. “Even between communities, it is quite safe to travel now because we really have no cases in the region. Let’s start by going into the fresh air, keeping some distance and wearing masks and we’ll see how it goes.”

www.nationnews.ca June 5, 2020 the Nation 7

Joyeuse Journée nationale des peuples autochtones

Nous souhaitons à tous une excellente Journée nationale des peuples autochtones. Proﬁtez-en bien! ᓂᐱᑯᓵᔨᒫᓈᓂᒡ ᒥᓯᐧᐋ ᐊᐧᐋᓂᒌ ᒑ ᒥᐧᔮᔨᐦᑎᐦᒡ ᒑ ᐅᑎᐦᒋᐲᔨᒡ ᒥᓯᐦᑖᔅᑭᒥᒡ ᐄᔨᔨᐅᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᐄᔅᒋᒫᐅᒡ ᐋᐦ ᒌᐦᑳᔮᐱᒫᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐅᒌᔑᑳᒥᐧᐋᐤ᙮ ᒑ ᒧᒋᒑᔨᐦᑎᒫᒄ! We wish everyone a Happy National Indigenous Peoples Day. Enjoy!

sdbj.gouv.qc.ca

General Category

1st place: $1,500 2nd place: $1,000 3rd place: $500 Prosepector Category

One prize of

$2,000

NAME PHONE ADDRESS COMMUNITY SIGNATURE Send to: CMEB

Happy National Indigenous Peoples Day

RoCk CoMpEtItIoN - LeArN FrOm ThE LaNd! The Cree Mineral Exploration Board's Rock Competition Requirements: New discovery Sample must be the size of a ﬁst Sample must be located on a map Complete the application form

Deadline and shipping: CMEB assumes the analysis expenses of the participating samples The contest ends on October 31 Shipping is at participant's expense

Hints on the ground: look for rusty surfaces Hints after breaking: sample metallic minerals

Do not forget:

SAMPLE LOCATION PLACE NAME MAP GPS COORDINATES SAMPLE COLLECTED FROM Stream Bank

River Bank

21 Hilltop, P.O. 150, Wemindji, QC, Canada JOM 1LO Tel: 819-978-0264 ext. 327

Lake Side

Fax: 819-978-3834

E Shore Line Mountain

N Island Other

E-mail: youceflarbi@creenet.com

In Brief Cree death accidental

Kanesatake removes Oka Beach checkpoints On May 20, Quebec’s unilateral decision to re-open the popular Oka Beach to the public was met with checkpoints erected at its entrances by the neighbouring Mohawk community of Kanesatake. According to Kanesatake Grand Chief Serge Simon, the lack of consultation by the provincial government and a vulnerable population – one that fortunately avoided the first wave of the virus – was the reason for the swift action by the community. However, a May 25 meeting between Kanesatake, the deputy premier’s office, and regional public health officials resulted in an agree-

ment that saw the checkpoints taken down May 27 – for as long as community’s concerns and demands are respected. Kanesatake has asked that the park only open at 50% capacity; that one of the entrances to the park be closed to keep people as far away from Kanesatake as possible; that only visitors from the local areas around the lower Laurentians be permitted access; that visitors to the park be informed that access to Kanesatake was restricted; that bike paths from Oka to Oka Park be blocked; that those who are coming to Oka Park remain confined to the park during their stay; and that toilets located in Oka Park be rigorously cleaned and disinfected after each use.

While the investigation into the death of Ernest Nakogee remained open as the Sûreté du Québec awaited a coroner’s report, there has been no evidence to date a crime was committed, an SQ representative told the Nation. The 42-year-old Mistissini resident’s body was discovered at kilometre 52 of the Route du Nord on May 13. Nakogee was laid to rest in a ceremony held May 23, and is survived by his three children: Keenan, Summer and Xavier.

Urban Indigenous Covid-19 funding On May 21, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that $75 million in Covid-19 relief funding would be allocated to organizations that assist Indigenous people living off-reserve. This funding is in addition to $305 million announced in March for the Indigenous community support fund – of which $15 million was allocated to urban populations. “If you live off-reserve or in a city, we’re working to make sure you don’t fall through the cracks. You need and

deserve services that are culturally appropriate and that’s what we are doing with today’s investment,” said Trudeau. “Indigenous community organizations in our cities and off-reserve do crucial work year-round, but these days their services are in high demand because of the pandemic.” Currently, 61% of Canada’s First Nations, Métis and Inuit people live off-reserve or in urban centres.

Checkpoints slow infections First Nations leaders and health officials urged politicians to work collaboratively with Indigenous communities as Canada and its provinces look towards re-opening the country during a virtual meeting held May 22 by the federal Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs. Among the topics discussed was how checkpoints restricting access to many reserves across the country had helped curb the spread of the virus. “Two weeks ago, I remember there were at least 30 of 43 communities [in Quebec] that had these checkpoints controlling access to their communities,” said AFNQL Regional Chief Ghislain Picard. “That gives results.” Tara Campbell, executive director of Saskatchewan’s Northern InterTribal Health Authority, whose region was hard hit by the initial spread of the virus, echoed that sentiment. In Saskatchewan, 27 of 33 communities had checkpoints restricting access, she said: “Just that alone helped with stopping transmission.”

www.nationnews.ca June 5, 2020 the Nation 9

Photo by Sherry Brunet

Features

Celebrations

locked down

Indigenous Peoples Day 2020 will still be observed – from a distance by Lachlan Madill

he Covid-19 pandemic has been an agent of change that has forced people to rethink how things can be done when it comes to large gatherings. Most live events have either been postponed or canceled across Quebec, and the rest of the country. National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations on June 21 are among those. In Montreal, this year’s edition of the Cabot Square celebration has been postponed until next year. Native Women’s Shelter of Montreal executive director Nakuset is the event organizer. She explains that the cancellation is not only because of social distancing, but also because the park is being used by the homeless during the Covid-19 crisis, including a high number of Indigenous people. She is still planning to acknowledge Indigenous Peoples Day but hasn’t decided how. On the national level, one of the largest events in the country is the Indigenous Day Live concert on Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN). It has also been postponed. But the network has found a way to acknowledge June 21. APTN chief operating officer Sky Bridges said that their approach has two components. First, the concert is being reformatted and rescheduled. “Our current plan right now is that it will be pre-taped with an audience, if we are able to. And we will broadcast it on the week of December 21,” explained Bridges. The details on the concert are still being worked out, as locations and venues must be determined. Bridges said that once that has been done, they will begin booking artists. It will likely be a few months before an announcement is made. He noted that because it will be in the winter, the event will be held indoors. The second component is to acknowledge Indigenous Peoples Day, which APTN will do by broadcasting a virtual concert. “In place of Indigenous Day Live, we’re going to have a summer solstice concert June 21-22. June 21 will be the English version and June 22 will be the French

10 the Nation June 5, 2020 www.nationnews.ca

www.nationnews.ca May 22, 2020 the the Nation Nation 11 11

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.

Is your child eligible for Jordan’s Principle?

Current eligibility criteria under Jordan’s Principle are:

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.

• 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

12 the Nation June 5, 2020 www.nationnews.ca

Your child does not have to have a disability to be covered under Jordan’s Principle.

Photo provided by the Val-d’Or Native Friendship Centre

“We have a lot of exciting ways to celebrate together still.” - Sky Bridges, APTN chief operating officer

version,” said Bridges. “We have a lot of exciting ways to celebrate together still.” The concerts will feature wellknown Indigenous artists from across the country performing from their own homes. The show was quickly put together. Bridges credits the APTN team for moving so fast on the project and is proud of the calibre of the performers. During the English show on June 21, 6 pm-8 pm, featured artists include Carolina East, Cris Derkson, Federal Lights, Ghostkeeper, Julian Taylor, Leela

Gilday, Nelson Tagoona, Sierra Noble, Susan Aglukark and Twin Flames. Burnstick, Elisapie, Florent Vollant, Samian and Shauit will perform for the French version on June 22, 8 pm-9 pm. Huron-Wendat actor Charles Bender will be hosting the event in both French and English. The Montreal-based thespian is excited to be a part of the show. With the Summer Solstice concerts, he said, seeing artists performing from their homes will create a sense of intimacy and solidarity for Indigenous People.

“There’s a digital powwow going on right now and this is more of the same. We’re trying to stay together and keep the community together during these tough times and making sure that we’re still celebrating all together,” Bender reflected. Bridges observed that people are learning to adapt to the lockdown, especially when it comes to live music. “We’ve seen a lot of concerts happen throughout Canada and the world right now where artists are performing from home – the appetite is there.”

www.nationnews.ca June 5, 2020 the the Nation Nation 13 13

Happy National Indigenous Peoples Day!

ᒑ ᒥᒥᐦᒋᐦᐄᑯᔨᐦᒄ ᔥᑎᔨᐦᑐᐧᐃᓂᓂᐤ, ᓂᓈᐦᑰ ᐋ ᐃᑎᔅᑳᓈᓯᔨᐦᒄ ᑭᔮ ᔥᑏᔨᔨᒥᓂᐅᒡ᙮ ᐆ ᐋ ᐅᑎᐦᒋᐱᔨᒡ ᒥᓯᐦᑖᔅᑭᒥᒡ ᐄᔨᔨᐅᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᐄᔅᒋᒫᐅᒡ ᐋᐦ ᒌᐦᑳᔮᐱᒫᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐅᒌᔑᑳᒥᐧᐋᐤ! -

From the Cree Construction and Development Company

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 â€“ Department of Justice and Correctional Services creejusticefunds.ca T: 418-923-2661 www.nationnews.ca June 5, 2020 the Nation 15

Helter

SHELTER by Patrick Quinn

hile people around the world are told to stay home to prevent the spread of Covid-19, what is happening to those without a home? The pandemic has made life harder for homeless Indigenous populations – in Montreal, for instance, the Native Women’s Shelter of Montreal was forced to close for the first time since its founding. The shelter was emptied May 14 after half of its 14 staff members and a few residents tested positive for the coronavirus. The seven women and three children living there at the time were moved to a hotel until the shelter is cleaned and disinfected. They hope to return by June 1. “At least now they’re in a safe location and in about a week they’ll be back,” said Nakuset, the shelter’s executive director. “We’ll be better prepared the second time around. I really thought we were doing such an excellent job. It all changed so quickly – it was scary.” Since Covid hit the country, staff who were pregnant or who had health conditions were told to stay home. The rest were divided into two groups. While the first core group operated the shelter, the second would self-isolate unless infections occurred. After the first core started getting sick May 4, the second group was called in and started catching the virus immediately. As the shelter was reduced to a skeletal staff, Nakuset was working at Resilience Montreal, the day shelter where she now spends most of her time. This was when social worker colleagues Emily Brunton and Simon Beauregard from CIUSSS (integrated

16 the Nation

Covid-19 outbreak forces Montreal Native Women’s Shelter to close temporarily

university health and social services centres) suggested the women could be moved to a safe hotel with intervention workers and security. Still, Nakuset was reluctant to close and asked their organization for additional staff, a cleaning crew, testing capabilities and even some armed forces personnel – if an Elders home could receive this assistance, she reasoned, why couldn’t the shelter? Nakuset said that the CIUSSS agreed to all her requests on the phone May 4, only to completely reverse course hours later. CIUSSS supervisor Annie Arevian helped arrange for the women to be moved later that day. Resilience project manager David Chapman transferred the residents in his van. After a stop at the testing site, they were brought to the hotel where they have been isolated ever since. “It was a real gift because our staff were freaking out,” said Nakuset. “They were getting really upset about

all their colleagues getting sick. One transmitted it to her partner. The women were scared watching all the staff get sick and all the staff were tired of being in a pressure cooker for the last couple of months.” Nakuset said that protective supplies were slow to arrive from public health, adding that there had been previous instances of CIUSSS promising something on the phone before later writing that it wasn’t possible. To further complicate matters, she noted, CIUSSS and public health have contradictory guidelines for employees returning to work. “Workers who tested positive were told by the CIUSSS you cannot go back to work until you have two negative test results,” said Nakuset. “Public health is saying 14 days plus another 48 hours of no symptoms. The staff are like, ‘Who do I listen to?’” One staff member’s recent test revealed he was still positive, but

he was told he wasn’t contagious and “should be okay” to return to work. Some staff are electing to take extended leaves rather than endure more uncomfortable tests, which involve having a swab inserted deep into the nose and throat. Covid-19 testing has become relatively common at Resilience, which has been operating outdoors at Cabot Square since March 26, across the street from its usual building. Faced with a huge overflow when other organizations closed during the pandemic, it was impossible to maintain safe distancing inside. True to their name, Resilience swiftly set up tables in the square to serve food and distribute clothes, blankets and other essential supplies. Staff have been outside with the predominantly homeless Indigenous population throughout the last cold months, providing support and up to 600 quality meals each day.

“It was heartbreaking to tell the clientele we had to close because they had heard it from other organizations and they love coming here,” Nakuset observed. “I think they enjoy having the intervention workers there so we’re all outside with them. It’s really devastating to see there hasn’t been much of a plan for this homeless population.” Her team was also able to open a secondary rest centre at nearby Dawson College, where people will be able to sleep night or day until the end of June. Her next goal is to install outdoor showers with curtains and towels. Nakuset is working with the CIUSSS and public health to plan the shelter’s reopening and is consulting with Architecture Sans Frontières to remodel the space according to Covid-19 best practices. She hopes staff will receive special training May 28 so the shelter can reopen June 1.

www.nationnews.ca June 5, 2020 the Nation 17

We can gradually restart normal activities while protecting ourselves! In the coming weeks, activities will gradually resume in Québec, with the consent and collaboration of public health authorities. The reopenings will occur in phases, depending on the type of activities and the geographic zone. You can check information about the reopening phases on the Government of Québec website: Québec.ca/coronavirus

Abide by the protective health recommendations After you go out in public, monitor yourself for symptoms and abide by the following recommendations.

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm running water for at least 20 seconds.

• Use an alcohol-based hand rub if soap and water are not available.

Throughout this process it will remain essential to abide by protective health directives, which limit the danger of the virus spreading. If you have COVID-19 symptoms, it is equally crucial to follow the recommendations for home isolation in order to avoid transmitting the disease to others.

20-210-125FA_Hebdo_Guide6_DoublePages_En_8mai_Corr_.indd 11-12

• Practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette:

• If you must go out, stay at least

2 meters (around 6 feet) away from people who do not live in your household.

• If you are unable to stay at least

2 meters away from others, wear a face covering.

• If you are sick, avoid all contact with

more vulnerable people such as seniors and people whose immune system is weakened or that have a chronic disease.

Cover your mouth and nose with your arm to reduce the spread of germs.

If you use a tissue, dispose of it as soon as possible and wash your hands afterwards.

• Avoid direct contact when you greet

someone, such as shaking hands, and use alternative ways to greet people.

Resources

Face coverings Wearing a face covering is recommended in public settings whenever physical distancing is not possible. For example, this could be when you go shopping for groceries or take public transit. When you wear a face covering in public, you must also follow other safety measures, such as hygiene. If you are sick, stay home. If you must go to a medical clinic or the hospital, wear your face covering until you are given a procedure mask.

Scarf

Face covering made of paper or a tightly woven fabric

Children under 2 years of age and people with respiratory difficulties or who are handicapped or unable to remove their face covering without help, should not wear one. You can learn more about the correct use of a face covering and how to make one by viewing the short videos on the Government of Québec website: Québec.ca/couvre-visage

If you are concerned that you might have COVID-19 or have symptoms like the appearance or worsening of cough, fever, difficulty breathing and/or loss of smell or taste without nasal congestion, call one of the following phone numbers: 418 644-4545, 514 644-4545, 450 644-4545, 819 644-4545 or 1 877 644-4545 (toll free throughout Québec) to be directed to the appropriate resource. If you are a hard-of-hearing person, call 1 800 361-9596 (TTY toll free).

Bandana or a tightly woven fabric

Québec.ca/coronavirus 1 877 644-4545

20-05-20 16:22

ᔦᐦᔦᐙᔅᐱᓀᐎᓐ ᔦᐦᔦᐙᔅᐱᓀᐎᓐ ᐁ ᐋᔔᒦᑐᓈᓅᒡ ᐁ ᐋᔔᒦᑐᓈᓅᒡ

COVID-19 COVID-19

EEYOU EEYOU ISTCHEE ISTCHEE DECONFINEMENT DECONFINEMENT

WHAT DOES WHAT“DECONFINEMENT” DOES “DECONFINEMENT” MEAN?MEAN? THE COVID-19 THE COVID-19 SITUATION SITUATION IS EVOLVING IS EVOLVING QUICKLY. QUICKLY. Deconfinement means means gradually gradually loosening loosening some some INFORMATION INFORMATION IN THISIN DOCUMENT THIS DOCUMENT MIGHT MIGHT HAVE CHANGED HAVE CHANGED Deconfinement restrictions restrictions put in place put in to place reduce to reduce COVID-19 COVID-19 transmission, transmission, SINCE THE SINCE DATE THEOF DATE PUBLICATION. OF PUBLICATION. and allowing and allowing a returna to return sometoactivities. some activities. As such,As such, PLEASE REFER PLEASE TO REFER OUR WEBSITE TO OUR WEBSITE FOR THEFOR MOST THE RECENT MOST VERSION: RECENT VERSION: deconfinement deconfinement marks an marks important an important shift in shift our mindset in our mindset EEYOUISTCHEECOVID19.ORG EEYOUISTCHEECOVID19.ORG about COVID-19. about COVID-19. WHY IT’S WHY TIME IT’STO TIME CONSIDER TO CONSIDER DECONFINEMENT DECONFINEMENT From the From start the of start the COVID-19 of the COVID-19 pandemic pandemic on March on 12, March 12, Eeyou Istchee Eeyou Istchee adopted adopted many measures many measures to protect to protect the the health and health well-being and well-being of our communities. of our communities.

Deconfinement Deconfinement does not does mean notthe mean pandemic the pandemic is over. is over. It means It means the situation the situation is stableisenough stable enough for us tofor start us to start thinking thinking about how about wehow can we reduce can reduce the long-term the long-term effects effects of confinement of confinement on our communities, on our communities, cultureculture and traditions, and traditions, while continuing while continuing to protect to protect our our population population againstagainst the virus. the virus.

This resulted This resulted in our region in our region having having the lowest the lowest rate of rate of Deconfinement is a balancing is a balancing act with act itswith ownits risks. own risks. confirmed confirmed COVID-19 COVID-19 cases incases Quebec in Quebec to date,tobecause date, because of of Deconfinement Loosening Loosening current current public health public measures health measures could lead could lead cooperation cooperation between between Cree entities, Cree entities, local leaders, local leaders, and and to an increase to an increase in casesinincases our region. in our region. people people in our communities. in our communities. Yet, these Yet,restrictions these restrictions have come haveat come a cost. at They a cost. have They have affected affected the mental the mental and social andwell-being social well-being of our people, of our people, and ourand local our economy. local economy. For these Forreasons, these reasons, Eeyou Istchee, Eeyou Istchee, like many likenations many nations aroundaround the world, thenow world, sees now the sees need the for need a gradual for a gradual return return to some tokind some ofkind “normal” of “normal” to reduce to reduce the negative the negative effects effects of confinement of confinement on our population. on our population.

Deconfinement Deconfinement is NOT is a sudden NOT a sudden removal removal of all of all restrictions. restrictions. It is a gradual It is a gradual processprocess of easing of some easing some (not all)(not of the all)precautionary of the precautionary public health public measures health measures in in a planned a planned and organized and organized fashion,fashion, over several over several weeks and weeks and months. months. What measures What measures to lift first, to lift and first, in what and in order whatwill order will be decided be decided in consultation in consultation with the with Cree the Nation Cree Nation Government, Government, based on based our region’s on our region’s specificspecific needs. needs.

HOW WILL HOWDECONFINEMENT WILL DECONFINEMENT HAPPEN HAPPEN IN EEYOU IN EEYOU ISTCHEE? ISTCHEE? While many Whileregions many regions of Quebec of Quebec have started have started the deconfinement the deconfinement process,process, our region our will region waitwill at wait leastat 14least days 14 after days the after endthe of end of Goose Break. Goose This Break. extra This time extra will time allow willthe allow CBHSSJB the CBHSSJB Regional Regional Public Health Public Health Department Department to monitor to monitor a potential a potential increase increase in in the ratethe of infection, rate of infection, as families as families return from return their from camps. their camps. IF ALL GOES IF ALLWELL, GOES EEYOU WELL, EEYOU ISTCHEE ISTCHEE CAN START CAN THE START DECONFINEMENT THE DECONFINEMENT PROCESS PROCESS IN THE IN SECOND THE SECOND WEEK OF WEEK JUNE. OF JUNE. We willWe take will a very take cautious a very cautious approach. approach. Our population Our population has particular has particular vulnerabilities, vulnerabilities, and ourand health our care health system care system has limited has limited capacity capacity to copeto with cope a large with a number large number of cases. ofFor cases. these Forreasons, these reasons, we must webe must extrabe careful. extra careful. Eeyou Istchee’s Eeyou Istchee’s deconfinement deconfinement will take will place takeinplace 5 phases, in 5 phases, with a gradual with a gradual loosening loosening of measures of measures at eachat stage. each stage.

ᔦᐦᔦᐙᔅᐱᓀᐎᓐ ᐁ ᐋᔔᒦᑐᓈᓅᒡ

COVID-19

5 PHASES OF THE DECONFINEMENT PROCESS PHASE 1

PHASE 2

Resume outdoor activities

Reopen local businesses

Allow small outdoor gatherings (2 households maximum)

Allow small indoor private gatherings

Resume some health care services

Gradually resume all health care services

PHASE 3 Reopen personal services and restaurants Reopen daycares and schools Allow medium-scale private and public gatherings

PHASE 4

PHASE 5

Reopen all other businesses including recreational & entertainment activities

Remove all remaining measures including community checkpoints

Allow larger public gatherings

EACH PHASE OF DECONFINEMENT DEPENDS ON THE SUCCESS OF THE PREVIOUS PHASE. The steps and measures of each phase may be adjusted as we move ahead. We will watch the situation carefully for 14 days (equivalent to one incubation period of the virus), to make sure there are no negative effects, before moving to the next phase. STAYING SAFE DURING ALL PHASES OF DECONFINEMENT In order to continue protecting each other, our Elders and vulnerable people, we must continue to follow basic public health and hygiene measures until the end of the deconﬁnement process: Wash your hands carefully Observe respiratory etiquette (cough/sneeze in your sleeve. Throw used tissue in a closed garbage can). Avoid touching your face (especially your mouth, nose, or eyes) Thoroughly clean and disinfect public spaces Maintain a physical distance of 2 metres (6 feet) when in public places, particularly among vulnerable people, including Elders and those with underlying health conditions Stay home if you are sick, or if you have been exposed to the virus Limit non-essential travel. Mandatory 14-day self-isolation after traveling to a high-risk region will continue Regions considered “high risk” will change as the situation evolves.

For more information:

EEYOUISTCHEECOVID19.ORG 1 866 855-2811

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.

If you are an Indigenous woman of Eeyou Istchee and you are seeking safety and support, we are here to help you!

ᐅᕙᓂ ᐱᒋᐊᕐᐳᖅ ᓄᓇᕕᒃ Nunavik Starts Here

ᐃᓂᓕᐅᕐᓃᑦ RESERVATIONS 1 800 361-2965

ᖃᖓᑦᑕᔫᓂᒃ ᐊᑦᑕᑐᐊᖃᕐᓂᖅ CHARTERS 1 800 661-5850

Community

Low-risk travel

Regions to avoid around Eeyou Istchee by Lachlan Madill

he Quebec government is rolling out its deconfinement plan and Eeyou Istchee will begin easing restrictions in June. That doesn’t mean that there isn’t a risk, especially for people travelling outside the territory. A major part of the plan is the mandatory self-isolation for those who have been in high-risk areas. This includes Montreal, which has more than 25,000 cases and is approaching 3,000 deaths. The other areas of concern are AbitibiTémiscamingue and Saguenay–LacSaint-Jean. Jason Coonishish, the coordinator of Pre-hospital and Emergency Measures with the Cree Health Board, said that people in Eeyou Istchee must remain vigilant when travelling. “For Saguenay– Lac-Saint-Jean, which is Region 2, it’s a concern because they have 320 confirmed cases.” Coonishish added, “In Abitibi, Region 8, they have 165 confirmed cases and most of them are in Rouyn. We work by region so the whole region is considered a place where if you go and then return, you are going to have to self-isolate.” Due to the proximity of the two regions to Eeyou Istchee, they are both considered risk areas. There have been 26 deaths in the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region since the pandemic started. While there have not been any new cases as of May 26 being reported in Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Rouyn-Noranda still has the highest concentration with 125 confirmed cases. Témiscamingue has

17, Abitibi-West 10, and Abitibi and Gold Valley both have five. Health authorities in the region also report that 27 health-sector workers have been diagnosed as well. The region also has recorded three fatalities. On May 26, the Cree Nation Government passed a new law requiring people who are coming back from these areas to self-isolate for 14 days. Coonishish stressed that people who need supplies should try to buy locally and avoid large population centres in the two regions until the situation has improved. Other risk areas are mines, forestry camps and Hydro-Quebec sites. Anyone returning from those places needs to self-isolate for 14 days If you travel to Chibougamau Chapais, Radisson or Matagami, you are not required to self-isolate. Those communities are in the Nord-du-Québec Health Region 10, which is within Eeyou Istchee, and is considered a low risk. Nor are you required to self-isolate when travelling between Cree communities.

Try to buy locally and avoid large population centres in the two regions until the situation has improved

www.nationnews.ca June 5, 2020 the Nation 23

FNTI is still accepting applications for the 2020-2021 Academic Cycle! We are committed to offering uninterrupted post-secondary programming rooted in Indigenous culture and traditions. Apply now for: Early Childhood Education Mental Health and Addiction Worker Social Service Worker Bachelor of Arts Public Administration and Governance Professional Master of Public Administration

Visit

www.FNTI.net today to apply for FREE 3 Old York Road Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory ON K0K 1X0 T. 613.396.2122 T/F. 800.267.0637 ext. 156 recruitment@fnti.net

June 21st is Indigenous Peoples Day!

Celebrate, enjoy. Be proud! ᒎᓐ ᐱᓯᒽ 21 ᐋᐦᑐᒋᔑᐦᐧᑳᓯᑦ ᐊᔨᐅᒄ ᐄᔨᔨᐅᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᐄᔅᒋᒫᐅᒡ ᐆ ᒋᔑᑳᒧᐧᐋᐤ!

ᒧᒋᒑᔨᐦᑎᒥᒄ, ᒥᐧᔮᔨᐦᑎᒥᒄ, ᒥᒥᐦᑖᑯᓯᒄ!

JBM Leader of northern fashion Your vision, becomes our design

Design your walking out ceremony suits & custom moose hide clothes!

- Custom clothing - Caps - Shoes, boots - Accessories

y n a p m O C c g e b n i e u h Q , t u o a m a g u o b i h JBM Cl C @jbm_clothing_company

y.com n a p m o c ing jbmcloth 418-770-7160

JBM Clothing Company

www.nationnews.ca June 5, 2020 the Nation 25

Health

Indigenous health data

First Nations Health Managers Association creates InfoPoint by Patrick Quinn | Photo courtesy of the FNHMA

verworked Indigenous health leaders coping with the Covid-19 pandemic have a new information-sharing service designed specifically for them. InfoPoint leverages the extensive database of the First Nations Health Managers Association (FNHMA) to direct Indigenous users to credible information.

SOCIAL DISTANCE STICKERS + GRAPHICS Keep your clients safe by helping them adhere to public health guidelines. 6 FEET KEEP DISTANCE

6 FEET KEEP DISTANCE

WE CAN CUSTOMIZE, PRINT AND DELIVER A VARIETY OF STICKERS, FLOOR GRAPHICS, AND SIGNAGE Contact us today for a free quote 514-272-3077 info@beesum.com

- Ernest Webb

26 the Nation June 5, 2020 www.nationnews.ca

“This really is in response to what we’ve been hearing in respect to not having a place to find credible information on Covid-19,” said FNHMA CEO Marion Crowe. “We’re by no means health-service providers or experts, but we do have access to all the resources and information that’s gone out. People can call into our ‘helpful desk’ and we’ll do the digging for them.” From 8 am to 8 pm Monday to Friday, health managers can call 1-855-446-2719 toll free or email InfoPoint@fnhma.ca to access solutions in English or French. A first-response team collects information from the caller so researchers can obtain the desired answers and respond within 30 minutes. While it’s too early to identify clear trends, Crowe noted that since the service launched in early May they have recorded a 100% client satisfaction rate. When more data is collected, FNHMA will be in a better position to adapt messaging according to region, identify harder hit hotspots and support educational tools.

Their regular communications from Indigenous Services Canada enable the FNHMA to provide regional updates and direct resources in languages such as Cree. This initiative builds on relationships developed with organizations such as Thunderbird Partnership Foundation and First Peoples Wellness Circle, that have been regular contributors to their popular virtual town-hall series.

“People can call into our ‘helpful desk’ and we’ll do the digging for them” - Marion Crowe, CEO

“We’re continuing [virtual town halls] until June 25,” Crowe told the Nation. “We were set to expire on May 21, but decided the demand is still there. We’re still getting thousands of people watching and there’s still more information to share so we’ll take it to the summer.” IndigenousHealth.ca, which hosts that series, now also includes FNHMA’s accumulated resources on their website as a central knowledge repository. FNHMA’s research team has been continuously cultivating information in attempts to deliver the most beneficial guidance for Canada’s Indigenous communities, some of which are suffering troubling Covid-19 outbreaks.

“We see through various data sources, First Nations are behind the curve for the rest of Canada,” asserted Crowe. “Right now, we’re flattening in mainstream and First Nations are escalating. It’s really imperative that we have those localized information sources.” Indigenous Services Minister Marc Miller recently highlighted the need for better data collection efforts in First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities, which have a higher risk of being disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. For example, an outbreak in northern Saskatchewan is presumed to have more Indigenous cases than current data reveals.

While one of FNHMA’s veteran education specialists took a work leave to go nursing in northern communities, most of their staff have adapted to supporting InfoPoint for the time being. The initiative is also an opportunity to provide summer employment for Indigenous students whose plans fell through due to the pandemic. “As our traditional mandate of training and certification has been momentarily paused, this provided an opportunity to use existing resources to respond to this,” said Crowe. “Nobody signs up to do a helpful desk when they came to FNHMA, myself included, but it’s part of the culture and values that we go where mem-

bers need us and this is where we needed to be.” Her team impressively assembled InfoPoint and its associated knowledge repository application in three weeks of intensive work. Incoming information is tagged, sourced and summarized before being added to their system. Researchers can then easily search words in their database and comb through dozens of resources to find specific answers. When the world eventually returns to some semblance of normal following the Covid-19 crisis, InfoPoint is intended to transition into a sustainable tool for health managers seeking general guidance. As FNHMA celebrates 10 years, Crowe believes this service is an important resource for addressing the unique needs of First Nations. “Indigenous people want to talk to an Indigenous organization because it creates a sense of cultural safety,” explained Crowe. “We’ve always wanted to have a call-in service to accommodate those who wish to continue our oral traditions instead of reading. It’s our top priority to make sure people can make informed decisions with the resources available to them.”

Newmont-Éléonore is proud to collaborate with the Cree Nation. It is an incredible wealth to be able to learn from one’s partner and to share their culture. The future of society is our youth. Like the summer solstice, let’s shine upon our successors to better develop and protect them. Happy National Indigenous People’s Day! Nous sommes ﬁers de pouvoir collaborer avec la Nation Crie. C’est une incroyable richesse d’apprendre de ses partenaires et de partager la culture. La jeunesse est le futur de nos sociétés. Comme le solstice d’été, mettons en lumière la relève pour mieux les développer et les protéger. Joyeuse Journée nationale des peuples autochtones !

For me, there’s no doubt that something is out there. It’s just a question of what and who

ᓂᒥᒥᐦᑖᑯᓯᓇᓐ ᒪᒨᐤ ᐋᐧᐃᒋᐦᐄᑐᔨᐦᒄ ᐄᔨᔨᐤᐦ ᐊᐄᑎᔅᑳᓇᓯᔨᐦᒄx ᓇᔥᒡ ᒥᒥᔅᑳᑕᔨᐦᑖᑯᓐ ᐧᐋᔫᑎᓯᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ ᒐᒋ ᐅᐦᑎᓂᒥᐦᒄ ᒋᔅᑰᑎᒫᐦᒑᐧᐃᓐ ᐊᓂᑎ ᑯᑎᒃ ᐆᐃᒋᒫᑭᓐᐦ ᐋᑕᔨᒡᐦ ᑭᔮᐦ ᐋᒥᔨᐧᐋᒻ ᐊᓂᔮᔨᐤ ᐅᑎ ᐋᔨᐦᑐᐧᐃᓂᐧᐋᐤx ᐧᐋᔥ ᐋᔨᐅᒄ ᐅᑖᐦ ᐃᔑ ᓂᔅᑖᒥᐦᒡ ᒐᒥᒥᓯᔑᑑᐦᑰᒡ ᑰᔥᒋᓂᒋᒥᓂᐅᒡx ᒨᔭᒻ ᐋᑖᔨᐦᑖᑯᐦᒡ ᐋᐦᒫᐧᑳᓃᐱᐦᒡ ᒋᐦᑳᓈᑰᐦᐋᑖᐧᐃᓂᒡ ᐊᓂᒋ ᓅᔓᓂᐦᒡ ᐊᑎᑎᐤ ᐧᐄᔨᐧᐋᐤ ᒑᒌ ᐅᐧᐋᑎᔥᑖᐦᒡ ᑭᔭᐦ ᒑᒌ ᒥᓈᒋᐦᑖᒡx ᒥᐧᔮᔨᐦᑎᐦᑖᐤ ᒫᒃ ᒥᓯᐦᑖᔅᑭᒥᒡ ᐋᐦᒋᐦᑳᔮᐱᐦᑕᑭᓂᐅᒡ ᐄᔨᔨᐅᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᐄᔅᒋᒪᐅᒡ ᐅᒋᔑᑲᒥᐧᐋᐤx

- Ernest Webb

www.nationnews.ca June 5, 2020 the Nation 27

WE ARE HERE FOR YOU.

WE MUSTN’T GIVE UP. TOGETHER, WE WILL WIN. To win this battle, everyone must respect

and follow the rules. Take care and be safe. Denis Lamothe MNA for Ungava 418 748-6046 (Chibougamau) 819 755-2506 (Lebel-sur-Quévillon) denis.lamothe.unga@assnat.qc.ca

215, 3eme Avenue, Val-d’Or, Quebec valdorchrysler.ca

POU ND S SS TOW ING ” UP TO 12,7 50 5.7L HEM I V8 “BE ST- IN- CLA ” MY NO ECO L FUE IN- CLA SS 3.6L PEN TAS TAR V6 “BE ST-

819-825-0880

Toll-free: 1-888-250-7081

CONSUMER GUIDE

BEST BUY! We are

RAM 150 0

Both available with revolutionary eTorque: Replace the traditional alternator with 48v battery, belt-driven motor generating performance, efficiency, payload, towing capabilities and drivability.

open now! We look forward to seeing you in the near future.

HOW TO MAKE A MASK

WANT SOMETHING STURDIER?

STO

Follow the instructions below to make your own DIY face covering from home!

S M DE

WE CREATE HIGH QUALITY, CUSTOMIZED MASKS (LARGE + SMALL QUANTITIES) CONTACT US TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE 514-272-3077 info@beesum.com

June 2020 - Issue 1

Puzzles

Crossword

SUDOKU

4 7 6 5

5 2 3 4 1 9 8 7 6

6 1 3 2

Tough

8 7

9 1 5 8 3 7 2 4 6

7 8 6

Previous solution - Medium

4 3 1 6 2

4 7 2 8 3 6 9 1 3 5 8 6 1 5 7 3 8 1

– ngle number can r column. But... are divided by black artments. These with numbers that t’. A straight is a set gaps but can be in ,5]. Clues in black umber as an option umn, and are not part nce at the solution to The solutions will be published here in the next issue. are formed.

3 1 2 9

No. 969

6 4 7 2 9 5 1 3 8

8 2 3 4 1 6 5 7 9

1 3 4 5 2 9 8 6 7

7 9 2 6 4 8 3 1 5

5 8 6 3 7 1 9 2 4

4 6 9 1 5 2 7 8 3

3 7 1 9 8 4 6 5 2

2 5 8 7 6 3 4 9 1

To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely. For many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org If you like Str8ts check out our books, iPhone/iPad Apps and much more on our store.

STR8TS

SUDOKU

No. 969

Easy

9 1 4 7 2

Previous solution - Medium

9 8 4 5 7 6

8 7 9 6 5 2 3 3 4 2 1

3 8 8 6

5 6

8 9 9 8 2 7 3 4 6 3

You can find more help, tips and hints at www.str8ts.com

Medium

ACROSS 1 Orange Bowl site 6 Pointer's word 10 Tip off 14 Bit of high jinks 15 Wedding shower? 16 Aide's anagram 17 Landscaping material 18 Played for a sap 19 Whitewater vessel 20 Bride-to-be's stash 22 Sire, in the Bible 23 Two-man fight 24 Figurative writing 26 Give it ___ (try) 29 Life story, briefly 30 Hernando's home 31 Use sparingly 34 Fix, as a dog 38 Inventory unit 39 Brief reprieve 41 Donated 42 Pioneer product 44 Eating disorder 46 Adored one 48 Wonderment 49 Under the weather 50 Family doter 53 Sheen's wing 55 Stallone role 56 Gladiator played No. 969 by Kirk Douglas 61 Teeny bit 62 ____-friendly 63 Watchful 64 Full of oneself

7 9 5 6 8 6 7 8 4 8 9 3 7 5 2 5 2 1 3 4

4 3 5 7 6 8 9

3 1 2 9 4 7 6 5

5 2 3 4 1 9 8 7 6

6 1 3 2

8 7

24 29 33 39

34 40

43 46

41 45

65 66 67 68 69

10 Metal thread 37 "Get ___!" diameter 40 Bad way to be 11 Old saying caught 12 Pass along 43 Whirlpool-like 13 1985 film, "The current Journey of ____ 45 Say again DOWN Gann" 47 Long-time TV 1 Sitcom set in 21 Item handed dog Korea down 50 Ground grain 2 Look ___ (study) 22 Barracks locale 51 Spacious 3 Mounted on 25 Staffing level 52 Misbehave 4 Went for the 26 Top guns 54 Prey grabber gold? 27 Bearded animal 57 Trapper's trophy 5 Cola cooler 28 A while back 58 Small price to Previous solution Medium Tough 6 Soul mate 32 Washing woe pay 9 6 8 1 7 5 4 3 2 7 Snake's warning 33 In-flight info, for 59 Hankering 1 4 2 3 9 8 6 7 5 8 Type of acid short 60 Rating unit 5 7 3 4 2 6 9 1 8 9 One of the 35 Uber alternative 62 Big coffee 8 2 4 5 6 3 1 9 7 Kennedys 36 Sermon subject holder 3 9 1 2 4 7 5 8 6 Stir up Fiji neighbor It can be bold Brings home Step in

7 8

4 3 1 6 2

7 5 6 9 8 1 2 4 3 4 2 1 5 8 to 3 Crossword: 9 7 6 4 Solution 4 3 7 6 1 2 8 5 9 7 2 S N A R E R A N G S T A B 6 8 9 7 5 4 3 2 1 C O L O N A G E E T U B A 8 3 A D To E complete P T T E E fill N the A L A N Sudoku, numbers R E board C E by I entering P T D E S 1Pto 9I S E such each 6 9 1 S that T R A row, P column R A and L P H 3x3 box contains every number F L Y L I T I G A T E uniquely. 3 5 PREVIOUS 8 6L O O S E N D E L E G A T E A B For U TmanyCstrategies, A G E hints S and U F O S SOLUTION: R Ovisit S www.sudokuwiki.org E N E T U N E U P 1 5 7 K E tips, M A S T O D O N W R Y L you A like N SStr8tsNcheck U RoutSour E 3 8 1C RP Ifbooks, iPhone/iPad Apps and A C K L E R E T R E A T

How to beat Str8ts – Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any row or column. But... rows and columns are divided by black squares into compartments. These need to be filled in with numbers that complete a ‘straight’. A straight is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in any order, eg [4,2,3,5]. Clues in black cells remove that number as an option in that row and column, and are not part of any straight. Glance at the solution to The solutions will be published here in the next issue. see how ‘straights’ are formed.

30 the Nation June 5, 2020 www.nationnews.ca

ack again for our second instalment, complete with last issue’s answers, we give you: The Puzzles! How did you do? Did anyone manage to solve all three puzzles without cheating? If so, send us a photo, we’ll put it right here in our next issue. And if you missed a couple, that’s fine. There was no way we were going to get 15 across without the help of Google.

by Margie E. Burke

much more on our store. E A S E R A D I I R O T H I R E S A S I D E A N T E A N T S P E T E R W E E D

Rez Notes

The art of spending money by Sonny Orr

he use of paper money has declined lately. I’ve had a $20 bill with the image of my favourite monarch sitting in my wallet for some time. I started with a $100 bill and that took a long time to spend as I found that using the tap feature on the debit machines was quicker and safer. These days, dirty money is hard to launder and I foresee a lot of changes on how we will use our digital dollars in the very near future. Cash-only businesses have been hit the hardest and now the debit machine is here to stay. I remember watching an intriguing TV commercial a while back with some sinister-looking guy stuffing high-end (meaning trashy and expensive) clothing into his long jacket pockets and the paranoid salesperson getting ready to turn this guy into the cops. Then the automatic sales went on as the man’s digital money paid for the scanned items. It was cool, but I haven’t seen that in use... yet. Cash, change, nickels and dimes, all things that we value because someone said that they’re worth something and should be worth the same to everyone else. Declared value, a buck

for a buck. But digital currencies don’t seem to have any real worth unless it’s in your bank, so the value is the same buck, less the weight. Now all that can be stored in your phone and paid using it. Lottery tickets be bought and cashed in at home. We have already changed our spending habits without blinking an eye. EMT for cash anyone? You look at all the heavy cash users and think that they might be suffering, like bingo and lotteries. But when you can’t spend your hardearned or bummed cash, well, it stays with you longer. I figure that when people return to their vices, they might not do so on the same scale as before. I find that I’m winning my jackpot by purchasing much-needed prizes like freezers, microwaves, replacing that cracked tablet, and topping off the credit card – all the things that you really need but had spent on losing it elsewhere. We win when we get back our family time, give our children some attention, and fill the fridge instead of waiting for the elusive prize money that will arrive with the next bet. Vices can be conquered, although in this case clean living is forced upon

us by social-distancing laws. Maybe there will be rules for spacing the bingos two weeks apart, so that we can all isolate ourselves after meeting half the town in a line-up. I hope that digital bingo arrives soon. Then we can play on our devices, set it on automatic and let it dab away until we win a jackpot every few years. Then if you do get lucky, just have it EMT’d to your account. The only problem I see is using 10 or more cards. That’s why I recommend using the autodabber. Hurry up you brainiacs asleep at the keyboard! Come up with something that will appease our unfettered appetites for gambling so we can feel good about losing, oops, I mean winning. It would be nice not to go out during winter storms when everything else is closed and cash is hard to get only to line up outside waiting for another player to buy their beloved cards. The only technology in this scenario is the GPS so that you don’t lose yourself in a snowbank somewhere. Happily, the main thing is that we seem to have healthy bodies and bank accounts, so far. Stay healthy my friends.

When people return to their vices, they might not do so on the same scale as before.

Happy National Indigenous Peoples Day

www.nationnews.ca June 5, 2020 the Nation 31

Happy National Indigenous Peoples Day

Gazoduq Project Participant Funding Available

Distributor of petroleum products and lubricants in the James Bay Territory, and Abitibi-Temiscamingue

May 15, 2020 — The Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (the Agency) is making funding available through its Participant Funding Program to assist the participation of the public and Indigenous groups and Nations in the impact assessment for the proposed Gazoduq Project, located between northeastern Ontario and Saguenay, Quebec. Under the Impact Assessment Act, the assessment of designated projects that include physical activities regulated under the Canadian Energy Regulator Act, such as the construction of an interprovincial natural gas pipeline, must proceed by way of integrated impact assessment by review panel. The Agency will work in collaboration with the Canada Energy Regulator (CER) throughout the integrated assessment process. Funding is available for eligible individuals and groups to assist their participation in upcoming steps of the integrated assessment with the CER. The next steps include reviewing and providing comments on the Review Panel Terms of Reference and the proponent’s Impact Statement and participating in public hearings. Applications received by June 30, 2020, will be considered. The Agency recognizes that it is more challenging to undertake meaningful public engagement and Indigenous consultation in light of the circumstances arising from COVID-19. The Agency continues to assess the situation with key stakeholders, make adjustments to consultation activities, and is providing flexibility as needed in order to prioritize the health and safety of all Canadians, while maintaining its duty to conduct meaningful engagement with interested groups. To apply for funding, complete the Application Form for assessments undertaken by a Review Panel available on the Agency's website at canada.ca/iaac under Funding Programs. For more information, contact the Participant Funding Program by writing to iaac.FP-PAF.aeic@canada.ca, or by calling 1-866-582-1884.

Happy Indigenous Peoples Day!

Follow us on Twitter: @IAAC_AEIC #Gazoduq The Proposed Project Gazoduq Inc. is proposing the construction and operation of a natural gas pipeline approximately 780 kilometres long between northeastern Ontario and Saguenay, Quebec. This proposed project would connect TC Energy Limited's existing main natural gas transmission system in northeastern Ontario to the proposed Énergie Saguenay Project, a natural gas liquefaction facility by GNL Québec in Saguenay, Québec. The project would also include three compressor stations, one metering station, approximately 25 block valves and a dedicated control centre. More information on this project is available on the Canadian Impact Assessment Registry website, Registry reference number 80264.

The Best affordable ﬁshing gear around! Cannot come visit us? Call or Email your requests. We ship to Eeyou Istchee, even C.O.D.

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

Under the Northern Sky

UTNS

www.underthenorthernsky.com

Learning in a dangerous time by Xavier Kataquapit

n entire new generation of graduates from universities, colleges, secondary schools and elementary schools are moving ahead with their lives. This time of year is very special for First Nations, particularly in remote communities. Organized education is a relatively new thing for my people, considering that less than a century ago most of my ancestors were only involved in learning about surviving on the land. My generation was one of the first to have a proper, modern education in Attawapiskat although we had to attend secondary school back in the 1990s in cities to the south. My parents believed in education and graduation day was a big deal for everyone. But graduations are not happening in their traditional settings in this pandemic-affected world. For the past few months, education has had to adapt. Students are learning through online instruction. None of this has been easy for students or teachers as this was a development that happened during an emergency very quickly.

Still, students are graduating and moving on to greater things. It is important to wish them all the best as they work towards their dreams. In my own family and among my friends up North there are so many success stories as my people develop careers and grow to become our new generations of leaders. I am so proud of my niece Brianna Wesley, who recently graduated with a Bachelor of Social Work from Nipissing University in North Bay. She is looking forward to developing a career and giving back to our home community. It is exciting for me to know that my other niece and Brianna’s sister, April Wesley, had already graduated from an Aviation Technology program at Canadore College and has secured a position with Thunder Air in Timmins. I am reminded that getting a good education starts at home. These two women are the daughters of my sister Janie Wesley and her husband Brian Wesley. They have always taken a great interest in their children’s education and encouraged them to

dream big. All my siblings have been great at encouraging their children to get an education. Much of that is based on the direction of our parents Marius and Susan. They believed in school as a path to a good and satisfying life. They also made sure we understood the traditional and cultural teachings of our ancestors. We all speak Cree and so do my siblings’ children and grandchildren. We all walk in two worlds and to me that is about as good as it can get. Congratulations to all students and thanks to all their teachers for making sure our systems of learning have continued. This has been difficult for many people, but I know that through the hard work, dedication and hope that lives in people we are moving ahead. I give thanks to the federal and provincial governments that have decided not to send children back to school during this pandemic. The world’s expert virologists and epidemiologists are saying that it could be a year or two before things will get

back to anything we know as “normal”. This highly contagious virus means that educational institutions are not safe environments for students and teachers. It is normal that school boards and education managers want to get everyone back into classrooms. But the hard facts show that this is dangerous at this point and could be for many months to come. We have not seen the end of the first wave of this pandemic, and there will be more to come. Real social distancing is almost impossible in education buildings. This virus travels primarily in the air and putting a lot of people in close contact is a very bad idea. Let’s not sacrifice our students and teachers. We must ensure we are over the worst of this pandemic first. If we go back early and people die because of that, we will forever regret our choice. Our schools, universities and colleges are places of higher learning, not places to spread a deadly disease.

We have been present since 1939. All members of the large Deshaies' family are by your side today and will also be for the better days to come.

34 the Nation June 5, 2020 www.nationnews.ca

ᔦᐦᔦᐙᔅᐱᓀᐎᓐ ᐁ ᐋᔔᒦᑐᓈᓅᒡ

COVID-19

ORAL HEALTH TIPS Did you know that the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 spreads through droplets, including saliva? To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, dental clinics have reduced their activities. If you have a dental emergency, call your local dental clinic. Your provider will assess your case and decide whether you require immediate care. Until your dental clinic reopens, here are some tips to help you maintain good oral health:

7 WAYS TO

PREVENT TOOTH DECAY

Cut down on food or drinks with added sugar; e.g. juice and pop. Make water your #1 choice of beverage. Choose healthy snacks such as fresh apples, grapes, carrots, broccoli, celery, nuts and plain yogurt. Limit unhealthy snacks such as chocolate, granola bars, chips and cookies. Eat less processed food. If you really want to eat sweets, save them for dessert (i.e. after your meal). Never leave your baby in bed with a bottle of milk or juice.

7 WAYS TO

PRACTICE GOOD ORAL HEALTH

Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes with toothpaste with fluoride. Brush your tongue too. Clean between your teeth; using floss once a day. Consider using mouthwash in addition to brushing and flossing. Clean your dentures and oral appliances daily. If you have been sick, replace your toothbrush immediately. Never share your toothbrush. Help your children with tooth brushing (0-10 years old).

FOOD SAFETY PREPARING FOOD FOR ELDERS & OTHER LOVED ONES During the COVID-19 pandemic, we need to limit our contact with others as much as possible to prevent the spread of the virus. This means taking extra precautions when making food or bringing food to others, especially Elders and people at risk.

GENERAL PRECAUTIONS If you are sick, do not prepare food or wash dishes. Wash your hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds before and after handling and preparing food. Clean kitchen surfaces with household disinfectant or a mix of water and bleach. Use your dishwasher to wash kitchen items as much as possible.

BLEACH & WATER SOLUTION

Use hot water and dish soap to wash dishes. Wash your dishtowels often with hot water.

TAKE-OUTS AND DELIVERY If you are looking after someone who is in isolation, such as an Elder or someone at risk, be careful while delivering food. IF YOU ARE RECEIVING FOOD FROM OTHERS: Organize food deliveries over the phone. Food deliveries should be left at the doorstep to minimize contact. Respect physical distancing during delivery of food (stay 2 metres / 6 feet apart). Wash your hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds before and after handling food packages. Avoid purchasing take-outs from places other than restaurants. For more information:

EEYOUISTCHEECOVID19.ORG 1 866 855-2811

ᔦᐦᔦᐙᔅᐱᓀᐎᓐ ᐁ ᐋᔔᒦᑐᓈᓅᒡ

COVID-19

ᐐᒋᐦᐄᐙᐅᐎᓐ WIICHIHIIWAAUWIN HELPLINE ARE YOU FEELING STRESSED, ANXIOUS OR DEPRESSED?

1 833 632-4357 (HELP) TIPS FOR COPING KEEP THINGS IN PERSPECTIVE Take a big breath and remember: We are in this together. If we all do our part to prevent the spread of the virus things will eventually go back to normal.

GET THE FACTS Be curious and rely on credible sources of information, like eeyouistcheecovid19.org/FAQs. But, take a break from news and social media to do something nice: call a friend, go for a walk, make a healthy meal.

COMMUNICATE WITH FAMILY, ESPECIALLY KIDS Discuss the news, but gently correct any misinformation. Remind them that prevention is easy: wash hands often, avoid touching face, cough and sneeze into elbow, stay home as much as possible, and stay calm. Children will regulate their actions and emotions based on what they observe in you.

STAY CONNECTED Our social networks are an important source of information and support. Staying connected to friends and loved ones (by phone) can foster a sense of normality in this difﬁcult time.

SEEK HELP If you are feeling stressed, anxious, depressed or feel your emotions are affecting your relationships or job performance call the Wiichihiiwaauwin helpline. We are here 24/7.

1 833 632-4357 (HELP) For more information:

EEYOUISTCHEECOVID19.ORG 1 866 855-2811