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And above all, And 2nd dose dose of aa 2nd of vaccine. vaccine. Québec.ca/COVIDvaccine Québec.ca/COVIDvaccine

CONTENTS 10 Grand Chief Mandy Gull-Masty Celebrating the new leader of the Cree Nation

Poor weather yet huge turnout at Big Rock

Community

EDITORIAL Grave concerns

NEWS The battle continues

Empowerment through education 6

IN BRIEF

FEATURES A new vision

Big Rock Fishing Derby

A fruitful 70 years

Healthy growth

PUZZLES REZ NOTES August thoughts

32 33

T&B 34

Inuit

Celebrating 70 years

Politics

Developing Ouje Photo by Jared Gull @photos_by_jared_g

salutes all those who participated in the Grand Council elections. Congratulations to those elected: Grand Chief Mandy Gull-Masty and Deputy Grand Chief Norman Wapachee. We thank Abel Bosum for his service to the Cree Nation as Grand Chief during a very difﬁcult time. To all candidates, elected or not, your participation in our democratic process and your contribution to the debate over our future is essential. To all those who work at ensuring the conduct, integrity and fairness of our elections, we are grateful for your service. Finally, we honour all who cast ballots in the elections. Above all, voters are those who determine the future of our nation.

Editorial

Grave concerns by Will Nicholls

anada’s continuing embarrassment over the discovery of unmarked graves tied to residential schools continues. Winnipeg Centre NDP MP Leah Gazan tabled a motion seeking unanimous consent in the House of Commons to have the federal government acknowledge what happened in residential schools as a genocide. It did not receive the unanimous consent she was looking for. But other politicians have come forward. Manitoba Minister for Indigenous Reconciliation and Northern Relations Alan Lagimodiere felt that while residential schools might have been created with good intentions, he believes that the Indigenous children who were forced to attend them were a part of genocide. “It was genocide. There’s no way we can defend those actions,” Lagimodiere said adding that John A. Macdonald’s strategy was to eliminate the Indigenous population as far as Canada was concerned. Over a 120-year period, more than 150,000 Indigenous children were taken from parents and forced into the residential school system. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission called this period a “cultural genocide” and recorded a death toll of over 5,000 children in their report. With the unmarked graves that figure is likely to be higher. Since May, over 1,300 unmarked graves have been found at only four of the more than 130 residential schools funded by Canada. Canada’s first Indigenous forensic pathologist Kona Williams said she and her colleagues had talked about those types of graves “but it was still a shock…

Canada’s response to many of its Indigenous problems, concerns and issues is to simply wait until the media gets bored and stops reporting them. some of those children could be my relatives.” She added that it might be hard to determine cause of death as causes such as pneumonia require lungs to establish that, and they may no longer exist. The TRC report saw many residential school survivors testify children were beaten to death and evidence of that is more likely to be seen. “That might match with some of the horrible stories that we’ve heard. And that’s going to be a difficult reality for Canadians to have to reconcile,” said Williams. She added there seems to be no plan in place to investigate the remains. Despite the apologies, Canada has recently refused a request to find more missing graves. Some provinces have stepped up to assist in doing so. While the world looks at Canada’s human rights record, many people wonder what else can be done. Afterall Canada’s response to many of its Indigenous problems, concerns and issues is to simply wait until the media gets bored and stops reporting them. It’s understandable given that many Indigenous peoples come from remote and isolated communities and their voices are not as loud and as prolonged as issues with a rallying cry of “Black Lives Matter.” Criminal lawyer Andrew Phypers, whose mother attended St. Eugene’s Mission Residential School (just north

of Cranbrook, BC) where 182 unmarked graves were found, has a few ideas. He and other lawyers wonder why even though Canada identified more than 5,000 alleged abusers that to this day no individuals or institutions have faced charges. Some of them could be continuing to abuse. Only a small number of priests have be charged with sexual assault, but never investigated for homicide. The Native Women’s Association of Canada has been pushing for criminal charges to be laid against Canada, churches and workers who committed crimes in the residential school system. Phypers, however, has a different idea. He is working with a group of lawyers asking the International Criminal Court to open an investigation into the institutions. Canada enacted a federal Crimes Against Humanity and War Crimes Act in 2000. This act gives the ICC domestic powers to prosecute in Canada and they can request Canadian police to help investigate. It would be an offence for Canada to interfere with the process. The ICC could also demand the documents the Catholic Church has refused to release. We can all hope Phypers and his team are successful so that the crimes enabled through the residential school system see true justice at last. It is something those children in the unmarked graves deserve so they can be laid to rest at last.

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 Randy Mayer CONTRIBUTING WRITERS M. Labrecque-Saganash, S. Orr, P. Quinn, B. Powless DESIGN Matthew Dessner SALES AND ADVERTISING Danielle Valade, Donna Malthouse 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 August 13, 2021 www.nationnews.ca

CMCA AUDITED

C O V I D - 1 9 U P D AT E

by Ben Powless

The battle continues As Delta variant spreads, Cree health authorities remain optimistic

hile acknowledging that Covid cases continue to decline in Canada, the Cree Health Board (CHB) in a statement called the rise of cases in the United States “alarming,” pointing to the Delta variant’s meteoric rise there, despite widespread vaccination. The CHB said it was optimistic that with the success of the vaccination campaign, Eeyou Istchee will hopefully avoid the fourth wave expected to hit Quebec in the fall. The CHB noted that health administrations across Quebec, including in Eeyou Istchee, are operating with a shortage of medical staff and other personnel, “making it very important that every effort be made to protect the capacity of our health-care systems.” The lack of staff was blamed for a lower testing capacity in the region. To speed up second doses for residents over 12 years of age, the CHB was making second doses available within four weeks of the first dose. The announcement came as all communities had managed to fully vaccinate over 54% of the entire population, with the percentage of fully vaccinated people 12 years and up being as low as 66% in Chisasibi and as high as 89% in Wemindji. This was far higher than the Canadian average of 59%. Based on these numbers, the Public Health authority of Eeyou Istchee is allowing private indoor gatherings of up to 50 people, and up to 150 people outdoors. Organized events – like weddings, funerals and sporting events – are allowed up to 250 people, depending on the size of the venue. Outside of Eeyou Istchee, all of Quebec has returned to “green zone” restrictions, which allow for a maximum of 10 people or three households for any indoor or outdoor gathering. Quebec had managed to administer 11.2 million doses, with 58% of the population fully vaccinated. Across Canada, there was an increase of 55% in new cases as the Delta variant gained strength. While Quebec’s overall case count remains low, at an average of

While the Delta variant represents over 90% of new cases in Ontario, and most cases across Canada, it was only found in 5% of new cases in Quebec

139 new cases per day, that was a large uptick from the previous week, which was only 57. The new positivity rate was back where it had been in May, when the third wave was waning. In the US, the Centers for Disease Control issued a warning about the Delta variant, suggesting it can spread even among vaccinated people, and can cause more serious symptoms than previous strains. However, vaccinated people are still much less likely to get seriously sick, end up hospitalized or die from the virus. The US appears to be in the grips of a fourth wave, as daily case counts of over 85,000 new cases exceeded the third wave in April. Cases increased over 400% in July, as many jurisdictions struggled with low vaccination rates, and even new laws that prohibited any type of masks or social distancing mandates. Florida alone was seeing record hospitalization rates

unseen at any previous point during the pandemic. While the Delta variant represents over 90% of new cases in Ontario, and most cases across Canada, it was only found in 5% of new cases in Quebec. That news comes as Quebec continues to relax restrictions, announcing that bars and restaurants may now serve alcohol until 1 am and stay open until 2 am. Outdoor stadiums and festivals will be allowed up to 15,000 spectators; up to 7,500 indoors. However, masks and social distancing will still be required. As students return to their studies, health specialists are worried that schools may again hasten the transmission of the virus. Meanwhile, the Canadian Medical Association and the Canadian Nurses Association have both called for vaccinations to be mandatory for health-care workers.

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n Eeyou Istchee’s other big summer election, Sarah Pash was re-elected chairperson of the Cree School Board (CSB) July 28, edging long-time director general Abraham Jolly by a slim margin of 111 votes. The candidates’ two home communities overwhelming supported their local champion: Pash took over 90% of the vote in Chisasibi while Jolly took 80% of Mistissini’s ballots. A total of 3,273 votes were accepted, according to returning officer John Henry Wapachee. Pash’s campaign focused on empowerment through ensuring Cree control of the education system, implementing firm standards and performance targets, and ensuring accountability and transparency at all levels to meet the diverse needs of students. “I believe that the position of chairperson belongs to the people,” Pash said on the campaign trail. “One thing I’ve loved about the past three years is spending time in communities, getting to know what matters to people. I promise that I will be there, available to listen to concerns, whatever is brought to me.” Jolly has been director general of the CSB for the past 15 years, following four years as deputy director general, where he has developed strategic action plans and other initiatives to raise the standards of education services. His platform focused on increasing student engagement aligned with the original vision of the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement (JBNQA). “It is the vision we adopted, rallied behind, built, shaped, managed and celebrated,” Jolly posted on the eve of the election. “If you’ve paid close attention to school board politics, you know that there has been a change. Some of that change is good and has always been a part of our plan – digital learning, Cree history, the Cégep file. And some of it will dismantle the vision that we have held on to for the long term.” Pash’s campaign also alluded to fulfilling the potential of the JBNQA by continuing to work towards ensuring self-determination in the CSB. She has met with Quebec’s education minister to push for a Cree Education Act, legislation that would provide full control of the education system. To develop this local capacity, Pash emphasized the importance of training programs to enable more community members to become qualified classroom leaders. Besides addressing the region’s teacher shortage, it would also improve student engagement and retention.

6 the Nation August 13, 2021 www.nationnews.ca

Editorial News

Empowerment through education Sarah Pash re-elected chairperson of the Cree School Board by Patrick Quinn | Photo provided by April Pachanos

“I hear all the time about teacher absence, students going a whole year without a qualified teacher,” said Pash. “Indigenous students need to see people like themselves in their classroom. They need people who understand the community, their families, the culture and the language. It’s our students being engaged and comfortable in our schools.” Pash reported significant progress this spring in the development of a Cree Cégep. The Council of Commissioners passed a resolution for creating a department of higher learning that will be staffed in the coming months to implement post-secondary education in Cree communities. Pash also advocated ensuring the right to education for all students by eliminating barriers to young mothers, victims of bullying, LGBTQ2S youth and those with food insecurity. She’s particularly passionate about providing resources to students with special needs so families don’t have to seek services outside Eeyou Istchee, as she has had to for her child. “My belief is no parent should have to take their child out of their home community to have their needs met,” Pash asserted. “I will not waver from that – I’m still upset that I had to do it myself. All of our children have a loved and valued place in Creation and none of them deserve to be treated as any less.” She believes the CSB has an important role to play in the identity construction of Eeyou youth through expanded language and culture initiatives, Cree history education and land-based programming. Pash suggested this could go a long way to addressing the bullying problem.

“We treat each other badly when we don’t feel good about ourselves,” Pash explained. “We have to pay attention into how we’re building up self-esteem among our children and what it means to embody our Eeyou values in everything we do within our schools. We have to build our children up, help them feel good about themselves so when they relate to others, it’s from a position of self-love.”

A community effort is needed to ensure teenagers attend classes

Addressing the low graduation rate and “dangerously high” absentee rate, Pash said a community effort is needed to ensure teenagers attend classes. She proposes implementing performance targets to raise the graduation rate to at least the provincial level and ensure students are prepared for post-secondary studies.

Pash described the sacrifices post-secondary students are making far from home, often with young families. During this challenging pandemic period, the CSB has provided extra allowances and even laptops for their children who are also studying. While many schools across Canada were forced to close for extended periods, Pash is proud that CSB schools remained mostly open, swiftly developed online offerings and provided laptops to students. Pash thinks all students should have access to educational technology like iPads and smartboards and hopes internet capacity can be improved throughout the region, especially in spottier areas like Whapmagoostui. She has been in discussions with the health board to address mental health issues and to nurture teaching collaborations with local organizations. After a nine-day tour of communities to share her priorities for the CSB, Pash said the first thing she’d like to do is to extend the election period to at least a few weeks. Working up until the campaign began, she expressed gratitude to her son Jacob for creating her promotional material and driving her to her tour stops. “This campaign has been a whirlwind,” remarked Pash. “It’s important for me to be present in the communities. We have begun some very significant changes – we got sidetracked a little with Covid but came through with flying colours. We’re going to move forward with strength, conviction and all our resources to make sure we meet the needs of our students.”

www.nationnews.ca August 13, 2021

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ELECTION FOR GRAND CHIEF/CHAIRPERSON AND DEPUTY GRAND CHIEF/VICE-CHAIRPER GRAND COUNCIL OF THE CREES (EEYOU ISTCHEE)/CREE NATION GOVERNMEN TO ALL CREE BENEFICIARIES OF EEYOU ISTCHEE

I, the undersigned Robin Pachanos, Chief Electoral Ofﬁcer for the Cree Nation Government, do hereby certif results in respect of the election for the Ofﬁce of Grand Chief/Chairperson and Deputy Grand Chief/Chairpers CERTIFICATE OF RESULTS

CANDIDATES

GRAND CHIEF/CHAIRPERSON ELECTION 2021 TOTAL VOTES

PERCENTA

ELECTION FOR GRAND CHIEF/CHAIRPERSON AND DEPUTY GRAND CHIEF/VICE-CHAIRPERSON OF THE Mandy GULL-MASTY 3120 64% GRAND COUNCIL OF THE CREES (EEYOU ISTCHEE)/CREE NATION GOVERNMENT

Pakesso MUKASH

TO ALL CREE BENEFICIARIES 1779 OF EEYOU ISTCHEE

36%

I, the undersigned Robin Pachanos, Chief Electoral Ofﬁcer for the Cree Nation Government, do hereby certify the following TOTAL 4899 100% results in respect of the election for the Ofﬁce of Grand Chief/Chairperson and Deputy Grand Chief/Chairperson.

In accordance with Article 26 of an Act Respecting the Cree Nation Government, R.S.Q. c. G-1.031 which sp GRAND CHIEF/CHAIRPERSON Grand Chief/Chairperson, and the Deputy Grand Chief/Chairperson must be elected by an absolute majority vo CANDIDATES TOTAL VOTES PERCENTAGE + one), and in accordance with the results of the Election of July 29, 2021, hereto, Mandy GULL-MASTY

3120

64%

Mandy Gull-Masty of the valid votes cast on the run-off Election of July 29, 2021; Pakesso MUKASH has secured 3120 or 64%1779 36%

TOTALdeclare that based on the Results of4899 100% as Chief Electoral Offi I hereby the elections of July 29, 2021, in my capacity Nation Government Mandy Gull-Masty elected as Grand Chief/Chairperson of the Grand Council of the In accordance with Article 26 of an Act Respecting the Cree Nation Government, R.S.Q. c. G-1.031 which specifies that the Istchee) and Cree Nation Government for a term of Four (4) Years. Grand Chief/Chairperson, and the Deputy Grand Chief/Chairperson must be elected by an absolute majority vote (fifty percent + one), and in accordance with the results of the Election of July 29, 2021, hereto,

Mandy Gull-Masty has secured 3120 or 64% of the valid votes castCHIEF/VICE-CHAIRPERSON on the run-off Election of July 29, 2021; DEPUTY GRAND

I hereby declare that based on the Results of the elections ofTOTAL July 29, 2021, in my capacity as Chief Electoral Ofﬁcer of the PERCENTA Cree CANDIDATES VOTES Nation Government Mandy Gull-Masty elected as Grand Chief/Chairperson of the Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) and Cree Nation Government for a term of Four (4)1998 Years. Ashley ISERHOFF 41%

Norman A. WAPACHEE CANDIDATES TOTAL Ashley ISERHOFF

2935 DEPUTY GRAND CHIEF/VICE-CHAIRPERSON

25%

TOTAL VOTES 4933

PERCENTAGE

1998

41%

100%

In accordance with Article 26 of an Act Respecting the Cree Nation Government,25% R.S.Q. c. G-1.031, which sp Norman A. WAPACHEE 2935 Deputy Grand Chief /Vice-Chairperson must be elected by an absolute majority vote (ﬁfty percent + one), and TOTAL 4933 100% with the results of the Election of July 29, 2021 hereto, In accordance with Article 26 of an Act Respecting the Cree Nation Government, R.S.Q. c. G-1.031, which speciﬁes that the

Norman Wapachee has secured must 2935 59% by ofan the valid votes the run-off Election of July 29, 2021 DeputyA. Grand Chief /Vice-Chairperson beor elected absolute majoritycast voteon (ﬁfty percent + one), and in accordance with the results of the Election of July 29, 2021 hereto,

Therefore, pending any requests for a review of the standings and process, which must be received within a p Norman A. Wapachee secured 2935 59%Results of the valid cast on the run-off of Julyin 29, 2021; days, I hereby declarehas that based onorthe of votes the elections of JulyElection 29, 2021, my capacity as Chief Elec theTherefore, Cree Nation Government, Norman A. Wapachee elected as Deputy Grand Chief/Vice-Chairperson pending any requests for a review of the standings and process, which must be received within a period of ﬁve (5) of the days, I hereby declareIstchee) that based on the Results of the elections of July capacity as Chief Electoral Ofﬁcer of of the Crees (Eeyou and Cree Nation Government for29,a 2021, term inofmy Four (4) Years. the Cree Nation Government, Norman A. Wapachee elected as Deputy Grand Chief/Vice-Chairperson of the Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) and Cree Nation Government for a term of Four (4) Years.

And I have given this notice in Chisasibi on this 30th day of July 2021. And I have given this notice in Chisasibi on this 30th day of July 2021.

further information, please contact: Robin Pachanos, Chief Electoral Ofﬁcer ForForfurther information, please contact: Robin Pachanos, Chief Electoral O Email: rpachanos@cngelections.ca, Tel: 418-748-5495 Email: rpachanos@cngelections.ca, Tel: 418-748-5495

In Brief In Brief

Mohawk Girls, Photo provided by Rezolution Pictures

Double stabbing in Mistissini

Mohawk Girls screens in the US

Mistissini Eeyou Eenou Police was alerted to a stabbing July 27, according to Lieutenant Robie Petawabano. The victim turned out to be an Elder, aged 73, who had already been transported to the Mistissini clinic in stable condition. He was later transferred to hospital in Chibougamau. Police said that three underaged females were seen in the area and had fled the scene toward the lagoon area near Mistissini Boulevard. After a four-hour search, the three were apprehended. The investigation was then transferred to the Surêté du Québec. During the investigation, officers determined that one of the three was also a stabbing victim. Another person in the group was charged with assault with a weapon and assault causing bodily harm.

NBC’s Peacock streaming service has picked up all five seasons of the critically acclaimed television series Mohawk Girls, introducing a huge new audience to the modern realities of young Indigenous people balancing cultural traditions with the “intoxicating freedom of the outside world.” The dramatic comedy explores the lives of four young women living in Kahnawake as they navigate sex, work, love and what it means to be Mohawk in the 21st century. From the creative mind

of Tracey Deer, whose recent film Beans has been racking up awards, the show has been described as Sex and the City, Mohawk-style. “We’re delighted that Peacock has picked up

Mohawk Girls and millions of American viewers will now have access to this fun, bold show that’s more timely than ever and that will entertain while also shedding light on an Indigenous world not often represented on American TV,” stated Deer and series co-creator Cynthia Knight. The series shines a light on rarely seen stories, like Bailey’s search for a good Mohawk husband who isn’t related to her. As Mohawk Girls progresses, the women are pushed out of their comfort zones as they deal with issues like rez politics and interracial dating. Mohawk Girls is produced by Rezolution Pictures, the award-winning production company led by Nation co-founders Ernest Webb and Catherine Bainbridge.

CONGRATULATIONS

to newly elected Grand Chief Mandy Gull-Masty and Deputy Grand Chief Norman A. Wapachee.

Ofﬁ www.nationnews.ca August 13, 2021

the Nation 9

Features

10 the Nation August 13, 2021 www.nationnews.ca

Photos by Jared Gull @photos_by_jared_g

A new vision Mandy Gull-Masty takes over as Grand Chief by Patrick Quinn

ollowing two rounds of voting, Mandy Gull-Masty was elected Grand Chief of the Cree Nation July 29. With 3,120 votes, Gull-Masty garnered 64% of ballots cast, versus 36% for Pakesso Mukash (1,779 votes). Gull-Masty emerged as the clear front-runner in initial voting but didn’t reach the 50% plus one needed for an outright win. In a surprising turn of events, however, incumbent Grand Chief Abel Bosum conceded defeat, suggesting that a prolonged election risked creating animosities that could jeopardize the unity of the Cree Nation. “Our unity has been the pillar for our many advances and for facing the many challenges that have been before us,” Bosum stated. “It is always challenging to accept the outcome of an election that has not gone the way we had hoped. But I do so with peace in my heart and with faith that the strength of our Nation’s governance will easily support the transition we are soon to experience.” Gull-Masty thus becomes the first female Cree Grand Chief as a wave of Indigenous women are winning leadership roles. Earlier in July, RoseAnne Archibald’s election as National Chief made her the first woman to lead the Assembly of First Nations. Closer to home, Mohawk Kahsennehawe Sky-Deer

www.nationnews.ca August 13, 2021

the Nation 11

likewise the first woman to lead the Mohawk Council of Kahnawake. Gull-Masty’s campaign message calling for greater transparency and accountability in governance clearly resonated with voters. Both Gull-Masty and Mukash criticized how the Grande Alliance agreement – presented as a vaguely defined $4.7 billion development framework – was negotiated and explained to the Crees of Eeyou Istchee. “On the campaign trail, there were a number of issues that were regional,” Gull-Masty told the Nation. “Definitely, the Grande Alliance was at the top of the list, second was housing, then third was policing. My intention is to go to the communities, to clarify and to address their concerns – that’s what they asked for in the campaign. From there, we’ll come to a decision with a consensus from Cree Nation members.” Gull-Masty said she had voiced concerns in her position as Deputy Grand Chief that the Alliance plan should have been communicated better with community members before it was announced. “I really want to engage local leadership and community representatives to have a stronger voice so we can improve service,” said Gull-Masty. “I want people to have a direct relationship with their leadership – communicating a lot more, trying to engage our youth using social media, maybe a little more reporting over the radio.” Gull-Masty will have a familiar face as Deputy Grand Chief. After placing second in the initial vote, Norman A. Wapachee surged to win 59% of the popular vote to defeat a former two-term Deputy Grand Chief, Ashley Iserhoff, in the runoff. Donald Nicholls placed third in the first round of voting. Gull-Masty has known Wapachee since she was very young – his late brother was married to her aunt – and previously worked with him for four years in the

“My intention is to go to the communities, to clarify and to address their concerns – that’s what they asked for in the campaign”

12 the Nation August 13, 2021 www.nationnews.ca

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“I’m going to be a different kind of leader” Eeyou Planning Commission. In her first official meeting as Grand Chief, she looked forward to offering him guidance as he becomes acquainted with the vast CNG organization. “I am honoured and truly touched by the tremendous amount of support I received from you,” posted Wapachee, who has a long history of community development in Ouje-Bougoumou. “It was truly a blessing to meet people, visit each community and participate in cultural activities. Reconciliation with Eeyou Istchee through our traditional values is an amazing experience one attains when one connects with the land and people.” Both leaders share a passion for land protection. Gull-Masty was heavily involved in negotiations with Quebec to secure 20% of the region as protected areas – a starting point for Grande Alliance discussions. “I’m hoping this transition will be a smooth one,” Gull-Masty said. “We just came from a leadership with somebody who had a long working relationship with Quebec, and I think he felt very comfortable with that relationship. It did bring a lot of positives. But I’m going to be a different kind of leader and Quebec is going to have to know me in this capacity.”

www.nationnews.ca August 13, 2021

the Nation 15

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the Nation 17

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18 the Nation June 18, 2021 www.nationnews.ca

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Big Rock Fishing Derby

by Will Nicholls

Poor weather doesn’t discourage huge turnout for Mistissini derby Photos by Ndiamon & Will Nicholls

20 the Nation August 13, 2021 www.nationnews.ca

istissini means big rock in the Cree language, and that’s the inspiration for the name of the community’s annual fishing derby, which took place July 23-25. This is a catch-and-release derby, meaning fish had to remain alive after they were weighed and until they were released in order to count. In other derbies suspicious minds questioned whether some participants had simply frozen a big one caught at another time and thawed it out for the competition. No one we know would commit such a dastardly deed in Eeyou Istchee. However,

the catch-and-release rules limited the fishing teams to the much smaller southern part of Lake Mistassini. Friday was a nice day for fishing, while clouds, wind and occasional rain moved in over the second day. The last day of the derby started off with a thunderstorm and rain continued throughout the day. We were thankful that no debates over cultural appropriation broke out at the derby when Team Indian & Cowboy were called to accept their prize money.

www.nationnews.ca August 13, 2021

the Nation 21

Here are the results for the Big Rock Derby 2021. Daily biggest walleyes Day 1: Team Chiiwetin 7.03 lbs, Day 2: Team Miquelon 6.52 lbs Day 3: Team Indian & Cowboy 5.40 lbs Daily biggest pike Day 1: Team Cini 23.58 lbs Day 2: Team Black Dodgers 5.18 lbs Day 3: Team Awesha 18.14 lbs The Big Rock Fishing Derby was truly “big” with 74 teams and more than 200 individual participants. “My bros are not only good hunters, but they are also good fishermen,” Stanley Saganash said of his teammates Jason Coonishish and Roderick Happyjack in a Facebook post. “I had fun competing with them and we are all made it top 6 in the Big Rock Derby.” Added Saganash: “Teach your children how to hunt and how to fish and they shall prevail. Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.”

22 the Nation August 13, 2021 www.nationnews.ca

The Big Rock Fishing Derby was truly “big” with 74 teams and more than 200 individual participants.

“Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime” -Stanley Saganash

www.nationnews.ca August 13, 2021

the Nation 23

Community

A fruitful 70 years Matthew and Maggie Wapachee celebrate their platinum jubilee with friends and family by Ben Powless

t all started with an ice cream. Then came marriage, kids and grandchildren. And great-grandchildren. Lots of them. All told, according to the last count, at least 140 children have come from their union. Matthew and Maggie Wapachee celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary July 9, with an outdoor gathering and luncheon at MacLeod Point near Ouje-Bougoumou with 150 of their closest friends and family. Their daughter Mary Wapachee, who organized the event, said the family normally would hold a gathering at their place, with traditional foods like goose and beaver roasted in their teepee. But Covid concerns pushed them to the outdoors location, where they enjoyed cold cut sandwiches, walleye, dekalep (fried bread with moose meat chunks), and homemade doughnuts. “It was a beautiful day. We had rain, but it wasn’t too bad,” said Mary. Local pastor and family-friend Harry Mianscum delivered a speech and encouraged young people to get married and commit themselves to lifetime relationships. Noting that the Wapachees had an arranged marriage, he said that sometimes love comes after. The family also gathered to share stories of how the two originally met. The story goes that the young Maggie was kept back from the trapline after developing tuberculosis and staying in isolation for a year, where she became her sister’s helper. Matthew was working at the time in mining, doing line cutting, and was flying around to different traplines. One day, he stopped at Emmett MacLeod’s store, which had recently taken ownership of a new ice cream machine. Maggie spotted Matthew hauling goods up to the store

Matthew, Maggie and family

and asked if he wanted to try the ice cream. “He said, ‘It’s really good’,” according to Mary. Not long after, Maggie’s family told her she was going to get married, and the family started preparing her wedding dress, without even knowing who, as arranged marriages were more common at the time. Matthew, who was raised by his uncle after his father passed away on a hunting accident when he was just 10, was also told by his uncle that he would be getting married. “My dad’s family told him you’re marrying William Matoush’s daughter, Maggie. He said, ‘Oh good, she makes good ice cream’,” Mary shared with a laugh. They were married July 9, 1951, on MacLeod Point, where they would return 70 years later, after having 13 children of their own and adopting two others. The couple’s granddaughter Catherine counted 142 children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, but Mary says that four or five babies have been born since. Throughout their lives, the Wapachees raised their family according to traditional values. To this day Maggie only speaks Cree, with a smattering of English. Matthew attended residential school, where he learned to speak English. But the family maintained their roots close to the land, never living long in any community. Even before Ouje-Bougoumou became a community, the family had a house in Mistissini. “But it never seemed like they were happy. There was always something missing,” Mary recounted. So, Matthew built his own house and moved back to the trapline. They continue to live outside

24 the Nation August 13, 2021 www.nationnews.ca

of Ouje-Bougoumou, in Chibouchibi along the Chibougamau River. Matthew stills eschews store-bought and prepared foods, preferring traditional meals prepared at home. That, and physical activity, is responsible for the Wapachees’ good health in old age, noted Mary. Maggie was always eager to pass on her cultural teachings. “When my mom asks us to do moose hide, she’ll have at least four or five hides. She’ll say come, you need to learn all the steps to fix moose hides, or to do the fish,” Mary said. Even at 90, Mary says her mother remains the social glue of the family. “If we don’t show up, they’ll call us!” Mary said with a chuckle. “She’ll say, ‘I haven’t seen you in over a week.’ We all live close, so she says she misses us. I understand that. I had empty nest syndrome when all my kids left for college. She makes sure we get there, then she’ll say, ‘I want everyone here, and here’s what I want to do’.” When their daughter Louise was elected chief of Ouje-Bougoumou, Matthew told the Nation at the time that he was confident in her abilities. Their son, Norman, was elected in July as Deputy Grand Chief of the Cree Nation Government after a runoff election. Waiting for the results, the Wapachee family originally gathered at one of the sister’s residences, before moving on to the band office after it became too crowded. While Maggie and Matthew are normally in bed at 8 pm, they stayed up until midnight. “My dad was really happy. My mom was tired and failing asleep, and when we said Norman won, she was so excited,” Mary said.

CREE JUSTICE CREECREE FUNDS

JUSTICE JUSTICE FUNDS FUNDS

2021-2022 CALL FOR PROPOSALS 2021-2022 2021-2022

CALL FOR PROPOSALS CALL FOR PROPOSALS

CRIME PREVENTION FUNDS

YOUTH ENGAGEMENT FUNDS

To prevent and combat crime in Eeyou Istchee by

To empower and engage youth by promoting positive

addressing the underlying causes

lifestyle choices that reflect our cultural values

CRIME PREVENTION FUNDS YOUTH CRIME PREVENTION FUNDSENGAGEMENT YOUTHFUNDS ENGAGEMENT FUNDS

To prevent and combat crime Eeyou Istchee by crime in Eeyou To empower by promoting positiveyouth by promoting positive Toinprevent and combat Istchee and by engage youth To empower and engage addressing the underlying causes our cultural values addressing the underlying causeslifestyle choices that reflect lifestyle choices that reflect our cultural values

FUNDING PRIORITIES FUNDING PRIORITIES FUNDING PRIORITIES

Prevention of Violence Prevention

of Violence

Alcohol/Drugs Prevention Alcohol/Drugs Prevention Abuse and Addiction Crime Abuseofand Addiction of Violence Alcohol/Drugs

Abuse and Addiction

Addressing Trauma Prevention

andofMental Crime Health Prevention of Crime

Addressing Trauma

and MentalTrauma Health Addressing and Mental Health

TO APPLY CONTACT: TO APPLY CONTACT: Desiree Ottereyes, JusticeDesiree Funds Administrator P: Administrator 819-978-3300 Ottereyes, Justice Funds

Department of Justice and Department Correctional of Services F: 819-978-3301 Justice and Correctional Services TO APPLY CONTACT:

Desiree Ottereyes, Justice Funds Administrator

info@creejusticefunds.ca P: 819-978-3300 www.creejusticefunds.ca F: 819-978-3301

P: 819-978-3300

info@creejusticefunds.ca www.creejusticefunds.ca

info@creejusticefunds.ca

CONGRATULATIONS to newly elected

Grand Chief Mandy Gull-Masty and

Deputy Grand Chief Norman A. Wapachee Congratulations to Grand Chief Mandy Gull-Masty and Deputy Grand Chief Norman A. Wapachee for your election We are proud to serve and work with the Cree Nation Government and Cree communities for over 40 years. Sylvain Faucher, Partner Val-d’Or office: 819-825-6226 faucher.sylvain@rcgt.com Mario Proulx, Partner Montréal office: 514-393-4751 proulx.mario@rcgt.com Annie Dubuc, Partner Montréal office: 514-393-4758 dubuc.annie@rcgt.com Richard Rémillard, Consulting Partner Montréal office: 514-393-4754 remillard.richard@rcgt.com

rcgt.com

Audit | Tax | Advisory

We wish you and the Cree Nation great success and look forward to ongoing collaboration.

troilusgold.com

Don’t Card? Don’t have haveaavalid validHealth HealthInsurance Insurance Card?

Please get one. It’s important.

Not Card (RAMQ) is is serious business. Not having havingaavalid validQuebec QuebecHealth Health Card (RAMQ) serious business. Emergency you don’t have a card or have an expired card, you you will will EmergencySurgery? Surgery?If If you don’t have a card or have an expired card, have to pay for the surgery yourself. You will be reimbursed by the RAMQ have to pay for the surgery yourself. You will be reimbursed by the RAMQ but if you get a card within oneone year. butonly only if you get a card within year. Non-Emergency If you don’t have a card or have an exipred card, Non-Emergencysurgery? surgery? If you don’t have a card or have an exipred card, the surgery will be cancelled until you get a card. the surgery will be cancelled until you get a card. Please allall your dependents (children andand elders) getget a card Pleasemake makesure sureyou youand and your dependents (children elders) a card before the next medical appointment down south. Always carry your card before the next medical appointment down south. Always carry your card with you when you travel down south. with you when you travel down south.

1-800-567-4385, x0x0 1-800-567-4385, They speak Cree, English and French.

They speak Cree, English and French.

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15 Maamuu Road, Chisasibi, QC J0M 1E0 For more information: www.ramq.gouv.qc.ca/en/citizens/health-insurance For more information: www.ramq.gouv.qc.ca/en/citizens/health-insurance

POSTING FOR CHAIRPERSON Eeyou Marine Region Planning Commission (EMRPC) is one of three entities (along with the Eeyou Marine Region Impact Review Eeyou Eeyou Board and the Eeyou Marine Region Wildlife Board) created under the Eeyou Marine Region Land Claims Agreement (EMRLCA); an Board Board agreement signed between the Federal Government, Government of Nunavut and the James Bay Cree of Eeyou Istchee, to manage agreement agreement the offshore region of James Bay and southeastern Hudson's Bay. offshore thethe offshore Under the agreement the EMRPC is mandated to develop planning policies, priorities and objectives regarding the conservation, Under Under development, management and use of land in the EMR and more specifically, includes the following responsibilities: development, development, • • • • •

Documenting the present uses of the area; Develop a land use plan to guide the direct resource use and development in the EMR; Implement the land use plan; Determine if development projects conform to the land use plan, and; Monitor development projects to ensure their conformity with the land use plan.

Land Use Planning The primary purpose ofland land use planning inthe the EMR toprotect protect and promote the existing and future well-being of primary purpose planning EMR isisto and promote existing and future well TheThe primary purpose of of land useuse planning in in the EMR is to protect and promote thethe existing and future well those individual communities situated orusing using the EMR, taking into account the interests ofall allCanadians, Canadians, and with those individual communities situated ininor EMR, taking into account interests and with those individual communities situated in or using thethe EMR, taking into account thethe interests of of all Canadians, and with special attention devoted to protecting and promoting the existing and future well-being of the Crees and Cree lands. special attention special attention dede The Commission itself made upfive five members, including the Chairperson: two nominees the Grand Council the Crees Commission itself isismade ofoffive members, including Chairperson: nominees ofofthe Grand Council ofofthe Crees TheThe Commission itself is made upup of members, including thethe Chairperson: twotwo nominees of the Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) (Christopher Beck – Member and Chantal Otter Tetreault – Interim Chairperson); one nominee from Nunavut (Eeyou Istchee) (Christopher Beck (Eeyou Istchee) (Christopher Beck (Elijassie Kavik – Member), one Canada nominee (Lorne McNeice – Member), and a Chairperson – currently vacant. (Elijassie Kavik (Elijassie Kavik The duties of the Chairperson include the following:

Quarterly Commission meetings annually, sometimes jointly with the EMRIRB and EMRWB 36 work days annually with honoraria for work days, meeting and travel. (Approx. 24,000$ a year) Conference calls as needed, likely quarterly Chairing meetings as needed Signee responsibilities: signing cheques, signing contracts Work directly with the Director on the advancement of the EMRPC mandate Assist with drafting and reviewing documents in a timely manner Building relationships with adjacent management regimes e.g. Nunavik Marine Region Planning Commission (NMRPC) as well as with federal, territorial and provincial government environmental bodies, the Cree Nation Government, and coastal Cree communities.

Please Please Please e ee-mail your inquiries to: hr@eeyoumarineregion.ca

www.eeyoumarineregion.ca www www

Politics

Healthy growth Ouje-Bougoumou launches a new phase of community development by Patrick Quinn

s its population nears 1000, Ouje-Bougoumou is setting the stage for future growth after early acclaim for its public buildings designed by renowned architect Douglas Cardinal and development guided by a vision of sustainability. “There’s great potential here,” said Ron Simard, O-J’s new director of economic development and marketing. “I understand where the community wants to go and I’d like to make it easy for entrepreneurs to get it rolling, give them the right tools.” The year got off to a tough start, as more than a third of community members were required to self-isolate during a Covid-19 outbreak after holiday gatherings. As one of the only Cree communities without a grocery store, community members were vulnerable to infections from nearby nonCree towns. Building a grocery store is one of those plans. Wally Wapachee is leading the development of a new training centre relevant to local needs while a small shopping centre is set to start construction next year. These services are integrated in a vision of green infrastructure, such as a housing program that provides affordable, comfortable and energy-efficient homes built in harmony with the natural terrain to reduce water and sewer infrastructure costs. For instance, a ridge of gravel acts

as a natural filter for water from nearby Lake Opémisca. Its innovative energy system uses industrial waste from area sawmills to provide heat and hot water for the entire village. In 2019, this project was modernized with the installation of Canada’s largest containerized wood biomass boiler along with new control panels and pipes. It now heats at least 15 commercial buildings and 200 homes, consuming about 3,800 tonnes of sawmill waste annually. “We have been proud to be a leader in the adoption of this technology that will allow our community to continue as an example for other communities throughout Canada in the areas of appropriate energy technology and local community development,” said Chief Curtis Bosum at the time. “Our heating system is a demonstration that the values and philosophies inherent in our Indigenous culture have relevance to contemporary challenges.” Resource development projects still divide community members into camps favouring environmental protection or economic opportunity, however. One controversial example

Ron Simard

is BlackRock Metals, which reportedly intends to level Gawashebuggidnajj mountain to create an open-pit titanium, vanadium and high-purity iron mine. Although an impact benefit agreement was signed in 2013, the Wapachee family told Canadian Geographic last year that there will now be fewer jobs and more environmental impact than originally promised. Before the mine opens, the Wapachees will have to relocate one of their seasonal hunting camps. While the region is plagued by abandoned mines, rehabilitation efforts at these sites may be expedited by a partnership with the municipality of Chibougamau. A Cree contractor was recently awarded a restoration construction project for the abandoned Principale mine in April and both communities intend to pursue similar projects. Meanwhile, summer has seen a return to near normalcy despite a decline in the tourism industry. The Recreation and Sports Association will host its summer games in mid-August, there are tent-making and bush-kit training projects, and a youth canoe brigade is

paddling the waters for two weeks. “They’re trying to start a community garden to help the school,” added Simard. “It’s more Wally’s project – he wants to get the students to learn about agriculture and perhaps make enough greens to provide our local store and dépanneurs. Crees are starting to have more awareness about their health.” As Ouje-Bougoumou’s head of tourism for seven years, Simard has a good understanding of the community’s opportunities and challenges. With attractions like Anna and David Bosum’s Nuuhchimi Wiinuu Cree Culture Tours, promoting the tourism industry will remain a big part of his job. “I have a long list of ideas,” shared Simard. “Some are not very realistic, but we can still dream. Living a life that’s productive can be very rewarding and fulfilling because you’re living a purpose. That’s something I’d like to help people realize. You can have an amazing life – we have everything here.”

www.nationnews.ca August 13, 2021

the Nation 29

LeArN FrOm ThE LaNd!

Puzzles Crossword

ere’s another edition of the Nation’s puzzle page. Try your hand at Sudoku or Str8ts or our Crossword, or better yet, solve all three and send us a photo!* As always, the answers from last issue are here for you to check your work. Happy hunting.

PREVIOUS SOLUTION: F A C T

O B O E

C O D A

A V E R

C O R N S T A L K

A C T O R

C R U D E

C A N O N

U S R T N U C P A P O R E R E L R T A M A P I N O S T P S H I A L R T L

S H O R T R A N G E O R E O

H A P L Y

O L I O

T E A R O P O C E M O R G O T R E C A N O T E R I T G O I N

M U T G A R N E T E T H A S T T E R A T T A A R

A N I M E

S T E E R

H O R S Y

R E G A R D I N G

U S E R

N E S T

N O G O

A N O N

by Margie E. Burke

1 2 3 4 ACROSS 1 Half a ticket 14 5 Ad headline 17 9 Photo finish? 14 Superior 20 21 15 End of a prayer 24 16 Raptor's roost 17 Beer, casually 27 28 18 "Schindler's ___" 19 Petty malice 30 20 "Cinderella" 35 36 meanie 23 Go through 39 40 volumes 43 24 Control, symbolically 45 46 25 Negligent 48 27 Main Street event 53 54 29 Spike for 57 climbing 30 Done dozing 60 31 Promised in marriage 35 Figured out 36 "Grey's Anato56 Support staff? my" spinoff, 57 Calendar entry "____ 19" 58 Italian import 38 Andean tuber 59 Screen symbol 39 Dumbo, et. al. 60 Poverty-stricken 41 "Rain Man" di61 Fairy follower rector Levinson 62 Card balance 43 Stallone's Best Picture DOWN 44 National head 1 Bratty talk count 2 Speak highly of 45 Drunk, in slang 3 Give a low 47 Fit to be tied appraisal 48 Give an edge to 4 Indicate 49 KFC, e.g. 5 Kind of solution 53 Boxing ring 6 Out of order borders 7 "___ we 55 Kind of code forget..."

22 25

29 31 37

38 41

44 47 49

50 55

8 Intestinal inflammation 9 Cooking fuel 10 Go back to press 11 Dodge from the '80s 12 Pocket breads 13 Pay attention to 21 Midway offering 22 Like bell-bottoms 26 Bit of night light 27 Library worker 28 Military no-show 29 Tom who sang "American Girl" 31 Check type 32 Kentucky Derby, e.g.

33 34 37 40 42 44 45 46 47 48 50 51 52 54

Light beige Time pieces? Silent, in music Make believe Stomach remedy Dream up What push may come to Plains dwelling Perfect Small songbird Part of a score, maybe Door opener Shipped off Pig's digs

STR8TS AND SUDOKU WILL BE BACK NEXT ISSUE

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

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

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

32 the Nation August 13, 2021 www.nationnews.ca

Rez Notes

August thoughts by Sonny Orr

t seems that this summer has been a bit of a disappointment with no real moderate temperatures to sooth the soul, instead it has fluctuated between scorching hot weather or foggy, rainy days. You can’t decide what to wear – shorts or jeans, t-shirts or jackets, flipflops or gumboots – the weather had us beat every time. I can imagine the meteorologists tearing up their latest forecast because the situation had changed in a flash, from a tornado to a flood or a lightning storm to a bush fire. The gods must be arguing over the latest Marvel movie – Loki the Mischievous Imp God versus Thor the Thunder God. Go figure, someone needs to be blamed for this ever-changing weather. Weather aside, in the last weeks of our so-called summer, restaurants and bars are finally opening their indoor seating. But who wants to sit inside? So, the outdoor patio is the choice for those who like noisy traffic, dusty winds, buggy food and grinning chins covered in beer suds. I forgot to mention the spectacular dark-red sunsets,

Someone needs to be blamed for this ever-changing weather thanks to the thousands of forest fires across the continent that turn the once clear blue skies into an asthmatic’s nightmare. Even hard-core smokers are complaining about the resin-thick smoke. The highways will soon be wide open for travel and getting around by aircraft has just become permissible, albeit vaccination passports may be needed. Vaccinations should have included some sort of dye, like bright pink for the first shot, then flaming red for the second and finally washed down with a gargle that changed your skin tone to a subtle green, for GO. That could have saved us from fiddling around with a large piece of paper or trying to find a screen shot among the thousands of images on our cellphones. As for me, I’m down south for the month of August and I’m wondering what’s in store for me and my family. Will the

ᐅᕙᓂ ᐱᒋᐊᕐᐳᖅ ᓄᓇᕕᒃ Nunavik Starts Here

Delta variant cut loose and ravage the south? I hope not. I’m doing good because every day is already a bad hair day, so who needs another bug to deal with? Talking about bad hair, I had my first haircut in two years. I was somewhat proud of my stubby mullet, but due to an incessant need to shampoo with expensive soaps, I prefer the sweat-free fuzz style, where everything glistens and shines. One thing about this long stay, I managed to purchase a brand-new vehicle second-hand over the internet, which was a blessing. I didn’t have to wait in a showroom, or deal with a pushy sales guy, or haggle over the options or upgrades. I even got my insurance online from my bank and some other bank did all my financing. I only had to get the vehicle mechanically verified as road worthy. Still, it meant I had to leave community and so it was a

ᐃᓂᓕᐅᕐᓃᑦ RESERVATIONS 1 800 361-2965

month before I could saddle up my trusty steed and head south to savour foods that my palate desperately longed for. Now that I’ve been here for over a week, I realize that my home cooking is missed by not only my stomach, but by the rest of the family. I guess this is the price we pay when the head cook goes on vacation. I see that many faces I used to recognize now wear masks to hide any recognizable features. So many people I chance onto think that I’m my brother or some long-lost relative who looks like me, asking if I’m related to Sonny. Even after flashing my once famous façade to the curious ones, I get no strong elicitation of recognition. I guess I’ve worn my mask so long that the strap marks are now part of my permanent look. So much for notoriety, who needs it anyways.

ᖃᖓᑦᑕᔫᓂᒃ ᐊᑦᑕᑐᐊᖃᕐᓂᖅ CHARTERS 1 800 661-5850

www.nationnews.ca August 13, 2021

the Nation 33

Tea

Bannock &Inuit

by Maïtée Labrecque-Saganash

’ve had the privilege to travel a lot during my short but busy lifetime. I visited many countries and yet, I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything quite like Inuit Nunangat, Inuit country. Some of the most beautiful landscapes I had the chance to see are in our neighbours’ territory. I have been to Nunavik many times, mostly in the communities in the Ungava Bay, but I recently spent two weeks on the coast of the Hudson Bay, in the communities of Puvirnituq, Inukjuak and Umiujaq. We tend to think their land is dead and arid because of the absence of trees, but the tundra is so rich. Everywhere you look, there are medicinal plants, berries, moss and ponds that carry life. My mother spent a few weeks near the Koksoak River, and I think she describes it best – “This river is almost human, it’s alive.” I feel the same way every time I spend time in the Arctic. The fact that Inuit thrived there and mastered such powerful elements for thousands of years is fascinating. Inuit and Crees have been coexisting for a long time, sometimes in conflicts and sometimes as allies. Inuit come from another migration, so the languages we speak and our cultures are very different. As a Cree, Inuit have always welcomed me warmly in their communities and their homes. I sometimes wonder why we don’t work together more often. Experiencing the realities of the Arctic puts things in perspective. Canada’s dominant society tries to make us think poorly of the Inuit. The only

Puvirnituq things we hear about their municipalities are mostly horror stories. I spent two weeks with my friends doing harm reduction and programming for girls aged 12 to 17. The program, Girls Inc., has been up and running since 2016, and offers activities and workshops to girls on the Hudson Bay coast. My friends work their 9-to-5 job and make the time to coordinate this program in their town, holding activities from 7 to 11 in the evening. Inuit Nunangat is rich in people generous to share their time and their stories. I wish our people would connect more and bond in something else than trauma. When my dad was in Parliament, I accompanied him on one of his tours of

the Inuit communities. Everyone would say the same thing: “It’s the first time an MP visits this town.” People are missing out. To me, it’s baffling that people go on expensive trips to resorts in Cuba or Mexico, when they could have a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the Arctic through Parcs Nunavik and municipalities. I always leave a piece of my soul in a tundra whenever I depart Inuit Nunangat. I know I don’t go very often, so I embrace every moment of my visits. I almost feel empty when I leave, because the stories people tell about this vast territory are as beautiful as the land itself.

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 August 13, 2021 www.nationnews.ca

Your Northern Airline of Choice

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

CURRENTLY OPEN FOR PROJECTS for 2021-2022 ﬁscal year

In partnership with Solidarity Alliances and the Ministère du Travail, de l’Emploi et de la Solidarité sociale

PROGRAM OBJECTIVE To alleviate poverty in Eeyou Istchee, in order to allow all Crees to have the resources, means, choices, and powers necessary to maintain their economic independence, and to be able to participate fully in the development of their Nation.

PRIORITY FUNDING AREAS

Poverty & Exclusion

Health & Nutrition

Education

WHO CAN APPLY? • Local/Regional not-for-profit corporations • Cree Nation Bands and Departments • Local/Regional Aboriginal organizations • Related research organizations • Not-for-profit corporations • Private sector organizations* *Organization must not profit from the program.

SUBMISSION DEADLINE

CONTACT

August 31, 2021

Nellie W. Gray, Funding Administrator @: nwapachee@cngov.ca P: 418-923-2330 | F: 418-923-2674

or until all funds have been depleted for approved projects submitted prior to this deadline date.

CREE NATION GOVERNMENT Department of Social and Cultural Development