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CONTENTS 10 Represented on the big screen imagineNATIVE festival returns in a hybrid format
20
Happy 45 years
Community
EDITORIAL 4
A year later
NEWS Protecting the children
5
Wanted: Indigenous cops
6
IN BRIEF
9
FEATURES Screening Indigenous stories 10 45th Anniverary of CCDC
20
Money talks
26
Time to act
28
PUZZLES REZ NOTES
32
What makes good tea good?
33
T&B 34
Groundhog day
Politics
28 26 YOUR TRUSTED JAMES BAY CREE PHONE BOOK 2022 EDITION 25 Anniversary Edition! th
A population in decline
Back to the table on Muskrat Falls
MESSAGE TO ALL COMMUNITIES’ MEMBERS OF EEYOU ISTCHEE Meegwetch to inform us of any changes to your contact information for the upcoming James Bay Cree Phone Book.
Still provided by Damien Nelson
Please call us before December 1, 2021 25th Edition coming January 2022 To update your contact info: Call 514-272-3077 | projects@beesum.com
Editorial
A year later by Will Nicholls
S
eptember 28 marked the anniversary of Joyce Echaquan’s tragic death at a Joliette hospital. Many of us were outraged at the FaceTime video of her last hours and the vile racism she endured from hospital staff as she begged for help. Instead of being provided life-saving medical care, she was mocked, insulted and taunted. Unlike many Canadians, however, Indigenous people weren’t shocked by the incident. Too many of us have experienced this treatment or know someone who has. In several parts of the province, vigils were held to remind us of this deadly systemic racism that exists in Quebec’s public services – something the Legault government still stubbornly denies. In Montreal, the event took place at Place Émilie-Gamelin, where several hundred people showed up to mourn Echaquan and demand that Quebec face up to and deal with this racism. With a perfect sense of timing earlier in the day, the Ordre des infirmières et infirmiers du Québec suspended the nursing licence of Paule Rocray, who had already been fired from the hospital over her role in the incident. At the gathering, Atikamekw Grand Chief Constant Awashish said, “It’s been a trying day for everyone – the family, the community and myself.”
Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante joined the vigil though she did not speak publicly. Echaquan’s husband, Carol Dubé, spoke only in Atikamekw while holding a feather. Recently appointed Senator Michèle Audette, the former president of the Native Women’s Association of Canada, said that we must make sure this never happens again. Atikamekw men drummed and sang traditional songs between the speeches.
At another vigil, the Chief of Echaquan’s home community of Manawan, Paul-Émile Ottawa, said the Quebec government has a “duty” to acknowledge systemic racism. Its failure to do so “represents a great pain and adds greatly to the pain experienced by Joyce’s family and loved ones.” Premier François Legault should hear the message and the pain. And make a commitment to change.
Congratulations to the Cree Construction and Development Company
on your 45th year Anniversary! 320, avenue Turpin - Rouyn-Noranda, QC, Canada J9X 7E1 Tel : 1-800-567-6325 | norfil.ca
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 October 8, 2021 www.nationnews.ca
CMCA AUDITED
Editorial News
Protecting the children Indigenous groups call out Quebec’s objections to federal youth act by Ben Powless,
T
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
he Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador (AFNQL) is questioning Quebec’s decision to challenge Ottawa to prevent a new federal framework for Indigenous youth and children from coming into place. The legislation, Bill C-92, titled An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families, was passed in 2019 after decades of criticism on how the federal government treated Indigenous children and youth in care, as a response to a number of recommendations from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. The changes were set to come into effect January 1, 2020. They return the right of jurisdiction over child and family services to Indigenous communities, while establishing national principles that the government claimed were meant to bring the act in line with the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. However, Quebec has challenged the constitutional validity of Bill C-92, arguing in court that youth protection falls under provincial authority. They are opposing the federal government in the Court of Appeal of Quebec, alongside the AFNQL, the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Health and Social Services Commission, the Makivik Corporation, the Assembly of First Nations, the Aseniwuche Winewak Nation of Canada, and the First Nations Child and Family Caring Society. “Quebec chooses to defend what it refers to as its ‘jurisdiction’ to the detriment of the capacity of the First Nations to manage their own services for their children and families. The impacts of the Indigenous residential school tragedy persist. Even the Legault government denounces them,” AFNQL Chief Ghislain Picard said in a release. “Have the lessons of history been properly understood? We can and must pose this question to the Legault government if we want to prevent history from
“Have the lessons of history been properly understood? We can and must pose this question to the Legault government” - AFNQL Chief Ghislain Picard
repeating itself. We need to be more concerned with the legacy we will leave behind.” The AFNQL says that instead of the federal act, Indigenous groups should enforce their own laws with regards to services for Indigenous children and families. Quebec insists on imposing the Youth Protection Act, originally passed in 1984, that does not see First Nations as equal partners and only delegates them limited responsibilities. The AFNQL and other groups were in court in September to argue their side of the case. In response to the court case, Mathieu Durocher, spokesperson for Quebec’s Ministry of Indigenous Affairs, stated, “We all agree that First Nations and Inuit must have more autonomy in the field of youth protection. The Laurent Commission also confirmed it. Ministers Ian Lafrenière and Lionel Carmant [responsible for youth protection] are committed to working with Indigenous representatives in order to find ways to give them more autonomy
and control over the protection of their children.” Durocher added that the Quebec government agrees youth protection services need to be reformed and will require legislative changes. The Laurent Commission was a twoyear commission that concluded this past May, looking into Quebec’s child welfare system that has faced decades of criticism. It concluded that Indigenous youth do not have a voice or watchdog looking out for their rights and best interests, and that Indigenous youth were taken often out of their communities, cut off from their culture, suffering a loss of identity and worsening physical, mental and spiritual health. In 2020, a class action lawsuit was launched against Quebec by individuals who were part of Quebec’s child welfare system, alleging decades of abuse, solitary confinement and unnecessary medication – the suit is seeking $500,000 per individual.
www.nationnews.ca October 8, 2021 the Nation 5
AFNQL calls for urgent changes to First Nations policing by Patrick Quinn,
W
Taapwaauchaayimiisu (Believe in Yourself) is a resource available for schools under our Youth Enrichment Services. We offer support to students between the ages of 10 and 17 who need a break from the classroom while continuing with their schoolwork. Our trained t team offers one-on-one and group workshops designed to improve behaviours, motivation, and self-esteem, and monitors students to keep up with the lesson plans the teachers send. The expression “Believe in Yourself” is dear to our program as we want to send a strong message of empowerment and self-worth to our youth.
Taapwaauchaayimiisu is currently offered in 4 communities: Waskaganish, Chisasibi, Mistissini and Nemaska. For information on our program, how to refer a student, how you can access services for your child, and more, please contact:
6 the Nation October 8, 2021 www.nationnews.ca
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
hile the federal government committed last December to introduce legislation making First Nations policing an essential service, the Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador (AFNQL) is demanding the same recognition from Quebec. “The provincial government must recognize First Nations’ right to self-determination and as a matter of course, their governments’ jurisdiction over public security,” stated AFNQL Chief Ghislain Picard. “The current climate of confrontation must give way to effective and respectful collaboration.” A meeting on September 15 between the AFNQL, police chiefs and leaders of several First Nations determined there is a climate of insecurity and a clear loss of confidence among Indigenous communities currently receiving policing services from the Sûreté du Québec (SQ). They alleged that policing services in First Nations communities are gravely compromised by constant interference by the Ministry of Public Security and the loss of policing personnel due to subpar working conditions and a severe lack of funding. The AFNQL stated that “discriminatory practices imposed by the current provincial Police Act” could result in a serious policing crisis. However, a long-anticipated roundtable with Quebec’s Public Security Ministry on September 23 was cut short abruptly after 45 minutes when Minister Geneviève Guilbault was called away to present Bill C-105 at the National Assembly, which aims to prevent anti-vaccination protests outside schools and hospitals. “It almost was postponed and cancelled, and the outcome for the chiefs of Quebec was kind of unsatisfactory,” Chief Lance Haymond of Kebaowek First Nation told APTN News. “Lots of work, time and effort put in to get this meeting, and it did not materialize in a way that we had hoped that it would.” During the brief meeting, participants were able to submit preliminary questions and discuss some topics related to questions of jurisdiction. Since testifying about his community’s unacceptable policing condi-
Wanted: Indigenous cops tions at the Viens Commission in 2017, Haymond said there have been some improvements. “I now have four officers: the chief of police and three non-Indigenous officers who travel into the community and work one week on and one week off,” explained Haymond. “While we’re able to increase salaries and attract non-Native police officers, we still struggle with a constant turnover. They come and work for us while they’re waiting for a call from the [SQ] or the RCMP.” While there was no announcement about when the AFNQL-Quebec meeting may be rescheduled, a spokesperson from the Ministry of Public Security told the Nation that discussions remain ongoing. “I can’t tell you any specifics, but we have a spirit of moving forward with openness in our exchange to find solutions,” said the spokesperson. “The First Nations are partners. We’re always looking forward to improving every aspect of our relations and way of doing things.” This summer, both the Anishinaabe community of Long Point (Winneway) and the Mohawk community of Kanesatake made formal government requests for increased police funding due to tensions with the SQ. Without a local police force since 2006 because of a lack of funding, Long Point Chief Steeve Mathias said Winneway has to wait up to two hours for the SQ in case of emergency, recently forcing citizens to disarm an armed man themselves. While a pilot project for an inter-community police force could be established soon, important logistical challenges remain to be discussed.
“It’s these discussions we want to have with the government,” Mathias told APTN. “To clarify once and for all how we can better manage community affairs, including public security. The government says it wants a ‘nation-to-nation’ relationship but how does that translate on the policing file?” Kanesatake has also ostensibly been patrolled by Quebec police since 2005 but the SQ rarely venture inside the territory’s boundaries. With new openness from Quebec to re-establish an Indigenous police force following a notorious street party this summer, the band council has begun preliminary negotiations. “A Mohawk community policing service will not have to navigate the same jurisdictional and political minefields that the SQ have in every one of their interventions,” stated Grand Chief Serge Otsi Simon at the time. “Our future service will thus be more focused on prevention, agile, more effective, proactive and will intervene in a much wider spectrum of situations.” While Quebec announced $18.6 million in funding last December to improve policing in Indigenous communities, establishing a local police force is somewhat complicated by being funded 52% federally and 48% provincially. The Viens Commission report regarding systemic racism in Quebec highlighted that recruitment is hindered by small hiring pools and a lack of experience among candidates, low operating budgets and a generalized mistrust of authority. Social proximity is also a substantial challenge – police officers often know the aggressor, the victim and their respective families.
Former judge Jacques Viens recommended that governments “explore the possibility of setting up regional Indigenous police forces” and expand funding for Indigenous police wages, infrastructure and equipment. He also said Quebec’s Police Act should be amended to acknowledge Indigenous-led forces as “similar to those of other police organizations.” Despite the difficulties of creating independent police forces, Indigenous leaders are advocating for community-led solutions that are sensitive to their unique cultures. As debates escalate over Bill 96, which would create stricter rules around French use in Quebec, self-determination in policing may become a more pressing issue. As Montreal Native Women’s Shelter executive director Nakuset recently testified, aggressive assimilation measures could further discourage Indigenous people, who are often already reluctant to engage with provincial police or healthcare, from seeking essential services. While policing remains an issue even in Eeyou Istchee – Grand Chief Mandy Gull-Masty said it was the third most common issue brought up during the recent election campaign – Indigenous communities ultimately want their own adequately funded police and institutions. “You have to incorporate the community and have constructive consultation,” said former Kanesatake police chief Tracy Cross. “If you don’t, you are setting yourself up for failure. We need laws in place, but our own traditional laws incorporated.”
www.nationnews.ca October 8, 2021 the Nation 7
Fire Prevention Week Occurs Every October Each year during the month of October a fire prevention campaign theme comes out from the National Fire Protection Association to honor the Great Chicago fire in 1871. And this year’s theme is “Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety”. The sound we often hear in our homes are smoke alarms but not everyone knows why it is important to have a working alarm in your home.
ᐆ ᐁᐃ ᑕᑯ ᒡ ᐁᐃᔑ ᐱᒥᐸᔨ ᑖᔮ ᒡ ᑖᐧᐯᐅᒉᔨᒥᓲ ᑳ ᐃᔑᓂᐦᑳᑌᒡ ᐁᑯᓐ ᐆ ᐁᐃᐦᑕᑯᐦᒡ ᒉ ᒌ ᐃᔑ ᐧᐄᒋᐦᑖᑲᓅᐦᐧᑳᐤ ᒋᔅᑯᑎᒫᒉᐅᑲᒥᒄᐦ ᐊᓐᑦ ᐅᔅᒋᓃᒎᒡ ᐁᐃᔑ ᐧᐄᒋᐦᐋᑲᓅᐧᑖᐤ ᐁᐃᔑ ᐱᒥᐸᔨᐦᑖᑲᓅᐦᒡ᙮ ᐃᐦᑕᑯᓂᔫ ᒉ ᒌ ᐃᔑ ᐧᐄᒋᐦᐋᑲᓅᐧᑖᐤ ᒋᔅᑯᑎᒧᐧᐋᑲᓂᒡ 10 ᐁᐃᑎᑐᐳᓀᓯᐧᑖᐤ ᐲᐦᐄᒻ 17 ᐁᑳ ᐧᐄ ᐃᐦᑖᐧᑖᐤ ᐊᓂᑌ ᐁᐱᒋᓵᔨᒡ ᐁᒋᔅᑯᑎᒧᐧᐋᑲᓅᐧᑖᐤ ᔮᐸᒡ ᒉ ᒋ ᐃᐦᑑᑕᐧᑳᐤ ᐅᒪᓯᓇᐦᐄᑲᓄᐧᐋᐤᐦ ᐁᒋᔅᑯᑎᒫᓱᐧᑖᐤ᙮ ᐊᓐᒌ ᒉ ᐧᐄᒋ ᐊᐸᑎᓰᒫᐧᑖᐤ ᑫᑌᐦᐹᓐ ᐧᐄᒋ ᐊᐸᑎᓰᒣᐅᒡ ᐊᓂᔫ ᒋᔅᑯᑎᒧᐧᐋᑲᓐᐦ ᓀᔥᑦ ᒫᒨ ᓀᐅᒡ ᒉ ᒌ ᐊᔨᒨᑎᒧᐧᐋᑲᓄᔨᒡ ᒉᐧᑳᔫ ᒉ ᒌ ᐅᐦᒋ ᐧᐄᒋᐦᐄᑯᔨᒡ ᒉ ᒌ ᒥᔫᐸᔨᔨᒡ ᑖᓐ ᐁᐃᑌᔨᐦᑖᑯᓯᔨᒡ, ᒉ ᒌ ᐊᔅᒉᔨᐦᑕᒥᐦᐄᑯᔨᒡ, ᓀᔥᑦ ᒉ ᒌ ᒥᔫᑲᓄᐧᐋᐸᒥᓱᔨᒡ ᓀᔥᑦ ᓂᓈᑲᒋᐦᐁᐅᒡ ᐊᓂᔫ ᒋᔅᑯᑎᒧᐧᐋᑲᓐᐦ ᒉ ᒌ ᐃᐦᑑᑕᒥᔨᒡ ᐊᓂᔫ ᑳ ᐃᔑ ᒥᔮᑲᓄᔨᒡ ᒉ ᒌ ᐃᔑ ᐊᐸᑎᓰᐦᑲᐦᑕᒥᔨᒡ ᑖᓐ ᑳᐃᔑ ᐧᐃᔅᑖᔨᒡ ᒋᔅᑯᑎᒫᒉᓲᐦ᙮
So, what would happen if you didn’t have a smoke alarm in your home? Would you know if there was a fire in your home while your family is sleeping? Well not everyone can smell smoke when they are sleeping, in fact it puts them into a deeper sleep. Inhaling smoke is also what overcomes a person and they become disoriented and cannot get out of the house to escape. Make sure you have a working smoke alarm in your home so you and your family can escape early before being overcome by fire or smoke.
Information on smoke alarms: When smoke alarms sound, sometimes there isn’t even smoke in the air but just the smell of something burning either from a toaster, opening the oven, or even from cooking. When the smoke alarm is sounding when there is no smoke, it is detecting the invisible smoke that is in the air that we do not see. But when the house is filled with thick smoke the alarm does not sound, why is that? Well, it is because of the type of smoke alarm you have.
ᐆ ᐁᐃᔑ ᒌᓱᐧᐋᓅᐦᒡ “ᑖᐧᐯᐅᒉᔨᒥᓲ” ᒥᔅᑕᐦᐄ ᓂᑎᑌᔨᐦᑕᒥᐦᐄᑯᓈᓐ ᐆ ᐁᐃᔑ ᐱᒥᐸᔨᐦᑖᔮᐦᒡ ᐧᐁᔥ ᓂᐧᐄ ᒋᔅᒉᔨᐦᑕᒥᐦᐋᓈᓐᒡ ᑯᔅᒋᓃᒌᒥᓅᒡ ᑖᓐ ᒉ ᒌᔑ ᒥᔅᑯᓰᐧᑖᐤ ᓀᔥᑦ ᒉ ᒌ ᒥᔫᑲᓄᐧᐋᐸᒥᓱᐧᑖᐤ᙮
ᐊᓂᑌ ᐁ ᒡ ᐱᒥᐸᔨ ᑖᑲᓅ ᒡ ᐆ ᑖᐧᐯᐅᒉᔨᒥᓲ ᐊᓂᑌ 4 ᐃᔨᔫ ᐃᐦᑖᐧᐃᓐᐦ ᐃᐦᑕᑯᓐ: ᐧᐊᔅᑲᑲᓂᔥ, ᒋᓵᓰᐲ, ᒥᔅᑎᓯᓃ ᓀᔥᑦ ᓀᒪᔅᑳ᙮ ᐁᑎᑑ ᐧᐄ ᒋᔅᒉᔨᐦᑎᒣᐧᑫ ᐆ ᑳ ᐃᔑ ᐱᒥᐸᔨᐦᑖᑲᓅᐦᒡ, ᑖᓐ ᒉ ᒌ ᐃᐦᑏᓐ ᐁᐧᐄ ᐲᐦᑌᐸᔨᐦᐄᑦ ᒋᔅᑯᑎᒧᐧᐋᑲᓐ ᐊᓐᑦ, ᑖᓐ ᒉ ᒌ ᐃᐦᑏᓐ ᒉ ᒌ ᐅᐦᒋ ᐧᐄᒋᐦᐋᑲᓅᑦ ᒋᔅᑕᐧᐋᔒᒻ, ᓀᔥᑦ ᑲᔦ ᐁᑎᑑ ᐧᐄ ᓇᓇᑑ ᒋᔅᒉᔨᐦᑕᒥᓀ ᒉᐧᑳᓐ, ᐅᑌ ᒋ ᑳ ᒌᔑ ᐯᒋ ᑖᐦᑲᐱᐦᒉᓂᒉᓐ: ᑖᐦᑳᐱᐦᒉᓂᑲᓐ ᐁᐃᑎᓯᓈᑌᒡ: (418) 923 2661 ᒦᓐ ᐁᒪᑯᓂᑲᓅ ᒡ ᐊᒋ ᑖᓱᓐ 1172 ᐁᒋᓯᐸᔨᐦᒡ ᐁᐃᔑ ᐲᐦᑌᓯᓇᐦᐄᒉᔨᓐ: YES@cngov.ca
Remember this simple thing: Ionization smoke alarms detect invisible smoke from fast flaming fires. Photoelectric smoke alarms detect thick smoke from smouldering fires. The most common alarms that are installed in homes are the ionization smoke alarms, which sound when you burn toast or when you open the oven. Dusty smoke alarms can also make the alarms too sensitive. Note: A beeping sound every minute means that the battery is low and needs to be changed. Smoke alarms have a 10-year life span.
Be fire safe everyone!
In Brief Covid update According to a September 17 update, there were two active cases of Covid in the Cree communities. That pushed the total number of cases to 25 since the beginning of the fourth wave across Quebec. The Cree Nation now has a full vaccination rate of 85%, significantly higher than the provincial total of 72%. However, the vaccination rate for those 18-40 is 70%, and Cree authorities urged that age range to get vaccinated. The vaccination passport is fully in effect in Quebec for access to non-essential services, like restaurants, bars and theatres, but no decision has been made about introducing one in Eeyou Istchee. The Cree Health Board said it continued to face staff shortages at Community Miyupimaatisiiun Centres. Meanwhile, 17,000 healthcare workers across Quebec may be suspended next month for failing to get vaccinated. Quebec Health Minister Chistian Dubé said that a third vaccine dose would be recommended for people in long-term care facilities, private seniors’ homes and similar residences. Third doses will be recommended only six months after the second dose. Meanwhile, Pfizer said their vaccine showed strong results in children aged 5-11, and that it is seeking authorization to have the vaccine used in that age range soon. Health Canada has currently approved the Pfizer vaccine for anyone 12 and over.
Canada’s first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, many schools, businesses and different levels of government recognized the holiday. The day is inspired by Phyllis Webstad’s story of having her new orange shirt taken away on her first day at residential school as a sixyear-old. Although Quebec decided not to declare it a provincial holiday, there were numerous ceremonies, marches and other events to commemorate the occasion. In Montreal, there was a giant “Every Child Matters” march organized by the Native Women’s Shelter in partnership with the Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador. Indigenous leaders made speeches and participants were encouraged to bring drums and wear orange. Although McGill University did not cancel classes, instructors were encouraged not to schedule deadlines or evaluated assignments on that day so students could participate
in other activities. A series of virtual events took place at the First Peoples’ House and the Arts Building was lit orange. “Being on campus September 30 gave us the opportunity to reflect together, to support each other, and to participate in activities to mark this important day,” said Frédérique Mazerolle, media relations officer. “By continuing to make these commitments a priority in our scholarly activities, together we can help advance the truth, learn from our past, and walk the shared path toward reconciliation.” However, some have suggested the university should do more, considering its past as a historic meeting place of Indigenous peoples and various controversies. Founder James McGill was known to own both Black and Indigenous slaves and the Redmen name of their male sports teams was only changed to “Redbirds” last year.
Algonquin Anishnabeg Grand In Brief Chief passes The Grand Chief of the Algonquin Anishnabeg Tribal Council, John Boudrias, passed away at the age of 51 after posting to social media that he had been battling a lung infection. Boudrias was elected to the position in May. A statement posted by Grand Chief Mandy GullMasty and Deputy Grand Chief Norman Wapachee said, “On behalf of the Cree Nation, we wish to express our deepest condolences to the family and friends of late Grand Chief John Boudrias. Our hearts go out to our Anishnabeg brothers and sisters today as they mourn their leader and friend. Grand Chief Boudrias also counts many friends in the Cree Nation and is well-known and respected throughout the Cree communities for his humor and love of music.”
A National Day While not all provinces and territories officially observed www.nationnews.ca October 8, 2021 the Nation 9
Features
Screenin
Indigenous Stories by Patrick Quinn,
ImagineNATIVE festival returns with a hybrid edition
B
uilding upon last year’s successful virtual presentation, the 22nd Annual imagineNATIVE Film and Media Arts Festival returns with expanded digital programming October 19-24. The 2020 online version allowed the festival to reach far beyond its Toronto base, attracting nearly 30,000 viewers across Canada and around the world. “2020 was a year of unprecedented firsts and we were touched by the vibrant and engaged community who supported us during the first digital festival,” said imagineNATIVE executive director Naomi Johnson. “We recognize that we are in a privileged position in having the opportunity to build off our online space – to create a place for us to gather and present these artistic works.” Founded in 1998, in part to correct the lack of self-representation in films about Indigenous peoples, imagineNATIVE has grown exponentially to become the world’s largest presenter of Indigenous screen content, providing an invaluable platform for Indigenous artists to express their unique perspectives. Over 145 works representing 51 Indigenous nations and at least 26 languages will be presented at this year’s festival, along with various exhibitions, industry panels and other events. Niki Little, imagineNATIVE’s artistic director since 2019, observed they received many more short films last year, as artists presumably pivoted with pandemic protocols, while this year’s balance has shifted back to feature films. “It feels amazing to pay artists well and see the work people are producing,” Little told the Nation. “We’re a pretty niche destination festival, coming after TIFF (Toronto International Film Festival) in the festival season. Last year we saw a wonderful increase in our audience outside the Greater Toronto Area – my parents on reserve in a fly-in community were able to watch.” As the festival’s team worked to improve their platform’s internet bandwidth before the online launch, Little was completing the necessary editing and closed captioning. Reflecting the film industry increasingly moving online, an innovative partnership was formed with Netflix a few years ago to support year-round professional development for Indigenous filmmakers.
10 the Nation October 8, 2021 www.nationnews.ca
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
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Elle-Máijá Tailfeathers in Night Raiders www.nationnews.ca October 8, 2021 the Nation 11
12 the Nation October September 8, 2021 24, 2021 www.nationnews.ca www.nationnews.ca
The imagineNATIVE Institute commissions industry reports, mentorship opportunities and international marketing activities throughout the year. During the festival, the Institute presents a series of “Industry Days” and “Micro Meetings” that provide priceless opportunities for writers, directors and producers in any stage of their careers. “We do micro meetings, so filmmakers get one-on-one meetings with industry leaders to pitch their projects,” explained Little. “We’ll be featuring panels on the writer’s room that is very timely. We’re doing more practical stuff we haven’t done before like how to find an agent, finding those people in your artistic network or community to grow your team.” This year’s Industry Days series features keynote speeches from filmmakers Oriwa Hakaraia (New Zealand) and Aka Hansen (Greenland), a conversation about creating animation, a competition to pitch an APTN web series, and a panel on the new hit television series Reservation Dogs, which has been breaking ground with its Indigenous creative team and subversive spirit. As the festival gains stability and accessibility with partners like the Canada Media Fund, the films it showcases have evolved to reflect the growing agency and narrative sovereignty of their creators. While a fundamental mandate has always been to challenge stereotypes and expand cinematic possibilities, empowered Indigenous filmmakers are increasingly shifting genre limits. “There are still those personal stories around historical trauma, but also a phenomenal articulation of Indigenous cinema,” Little asserted. “For example, feature documentaries from an Indigenous lens are pushing the boundaries of what the expectation of documentaries as an art form are expected. There’s an interesting Indigenous perspective that embeds a lot of humour and, whether it’s a Cree or Maori director, you’re seeing how specific Indigenous distinctions play on the screen.” Among this year’s documentaries, Little recommended Landon Dyksterhouse’s Warrior Spirit, which follows Nicco Montaño’s journey as the first Native American UFC champion, and Honour to Senator Murray Sinclair, Alanis Obomsawin’s tribute to the former head of Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
Bootlegger by Caroline Monnet will play in Vancouver and Halifax. - Pictured Left
www.nationnews.ca www.nationnews.ca September October24, 8, 2021 the Nation 13
Danis Goulet’s post-apocalyptic thriller Night Raiders, will be screened at the opening night gala - Pictured Right, Top/Bottom Right & Front Cover
Building upon last year’s successful virtual presentation, the 22nd Annual imagineNATIVE Film and Media Arts Festival returns with expanded digital programming October 19-24. The 2020 online version allowed the festival to reach far beyond its Toronto base, attracting nearly 30,000 viewers across Canada and around the world. “We curated a short film program grounded to amplify values associated
with the seven directions of the medicine wheel,” said Little. “Terril Calder has a new animation called Meneath that is really amazing. She’s not only pushing “2020 was her a year of unprecedented firstsan and we were touched own artistic boundaries but does interesting allegory betweenby the the sevenvibrant and engaged community whoteachings.” supported us during the first digital festival,” said deadly sins and seven Another notable documentary showing is Kímmapiiyipitssini: The Meaning imagineNATIVE executive director Naomi Johnson. “We recognize that we are of Empathy, which draws connections between colonial violence and subin a privileged position in having the opportunity to build off our online space – to stance abuse on director Elle-Máijá Tailfeathers’ Kainai First Nation in Alberta. create a place for us to gather and present these artistic works.” Interestingly, Tailfeathers also stars in Cree-Métis director Danis Goulet’s post-apocalyptic thriller Night Raiders, which will be screened at the opening night gala. Founded in 1998, in part to correct the lack of self-representation in films about “It’s going to be an in-person screening at TIFF with a live Q&A afterwards Indigenous that peoples, imagineNATIVE has grown exponentially to become the will be nationally broadcast through our platform to get that cinematic feel of all presenter of us in a theatre but also reach a national audience,” Little shared. world’s largest of Indigenous screen content, providing an “The invaluable opening night party will be really fun with special guests we haven’t announced platform for Indigenous artists to express their unique perspectives. yet. We have the art crawl with performances, artist talks, and video commissions.” Through an exciting51 new Cineplex partnership two first-time Over 145 works representing Indigenous nations this and year, at least 26 languages features by Canadian artists will screen in four cities on October 21. Rhayne will be presented at this year’s festival, along with various exhibitions, industry Vermette’s Ste. Anne will screen in Winnipeg and Montreal while Bootlegger by panels andCaroline other Monnet events.willNiki Little, imagineNATIVE’s artistic director since play in Vancouver and Halifax. 2019, observed“We’re they also received short filmsPlace last on year, as artists presumdoing a many drive-inmore this year at Ontario October 21, showing Beans by Tracey Deer,” said Little. “It premiered at TIFF last year. A drive-in ably pivoted with pandemic protocols, while this year’s balance has shifted back is not only a safe way to gather – we’ve done a couple that were fun – but also to feature films. a way to experience that film particularly in that space.” While imagineNATIVE looks forward to bringing people safely together, Little thinks they will continue online programming to expand their audience to “It feels amazing to pay artists well and see the work people are producing,” Little highlight the work of Indigenous filmmakers. told the Nation. “We’re a pretty nichehappening destination festival, coming after TIFF “There are wonderful moments in terms of no longer becoming (Toronto International Film Festival) in the Last year a niche in the genre,” Little affirmed. “It’s festival becomingseason. more accessible and we dis- saw a pelling stereotypes, which was outside one of ourthe main goals, and showing the breadth wonderful increase in our audience Greater Toronto Area – my parand nuances in an Indigenous narrative.”
ents on reserve in a fly-in community were able to watch.”
As the festival’s team worked to improve their platform’s internet bandwidth before the online launch, Little was completing the necessary editing and closed captioning. Reflecting the film industry increasingly moving online, an innovative partnership was formed with Netflix a few years ago to support year-round professional development for Indigenous filmmakers.
14 the Nation October September 8, 2021 24, 2021 www.nationnews.ca www.nationnews.ca
imaginenative
www.nationnews.ca September 24, 2021
the Nation 15
Your
Time, Your Claim, Your Journey
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20 the Nation October 8, 2021 www.nationnews.ca
by Patrick Quinn,
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter | Photos provided by CCDC
Cree Construction and Development Company turns 45
Photo of Robert Baribeau
ccdc
Crees working with Crees for Crees
T
his year, the Cree Construction and Development Company (CCDC) celebrates 45 years of ground-breaking success. From humble origins, clearcutting paths for power transmission lines and future reservoirs, the first completely Cree-owned enterprise has grown to become one of Quebec’s largest and most successful construction companies.
Founded by the Cree communities in 1976 shortly after the signing of the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement (JBNQA), CCDC’s original mission was to maximize Cree employment. Although Hydro-Québec was required by the JBNQA to hire Crees, their limited construction training at the time meant that it was mainly lumberjacks from Mistissini and Waskaganish who initially found work. “Cree Construction was created to provide an opportunity for the Cree Nation to participate in these projects and get their take,” said Robert Baribeau, CCDC’s president since 2012. “Back then it was a lot of slashing – it was the first time I saw people with money in their pockets. Even today, creating employment is the number one objective of the board.” While Crees have always composed about half of the company’s workforce, the types of positions have become more specialized as the Cree Nation has evolved. As the Cree School Board (CSB) has expanded, new training programs for heavy machinery and other trades have enabled CCDC to take on larger and more ambitious projects. “Up to the mid-1990s, our guys learned how to operate heavy machinery by working for Cree Construction,” Baribeau told the Nation. “There was not much training back then, even carpenters. Today we have Crees in almost all the trades. In Chisasibi, we’re almost 95% Cree. That goes all the way up to superintendents, foremen.” The company has invested heavily over the years in employee development, including securing the certification licenses from the Commission de la construction du Québec (CCQ) that are necessary to work in most of Quebec’s construction trades. This development has been so successful, many former
“They cleaned up the company, figuring out where the money was getting sucked out. A security company escorted these guys out – those were exciting days”
employees are now independent entrepreneurs who provide localized services. “We’ve created our own competition, which is a good thing,” asserted Baribeau. “A lot have bought trucks or heavy equipment. Some employees become our competition, but a lot become our allies. The commitment and loyalty stay even when these guys retire or move on.” Whereas over a quarter of permanent employees have been with CCDC for over a decade, the company’s early days were characterized by high turnover. As it expanded from brush cutting to housing in the early 1980s, CCDC enjoyed steady growth until about the mid-1990s as it became the go-to company for HydroQuébec’s northern projects. However, CCDC became so infiltrated by organized crime in the 1990s that it nearly brought down the company. According to the 2015 Charbonneau Commission report, Quebec’s entire construction industry became so entangled in mafia corruption and collusion that they became “untouchable”.
“They almost killed the company,” Baribeau shared. “In 2001, Cree leadership knew the Paix des Braves was going to be signed so this whole investigation went on. They cleaned up the company, figuring out where the money was getting sucked out. A security company escorted these guys out – those were exciting days.” As the mob wouldn’t hire Crees, Baribeau started with the company in human resources when the board of directors was focusing on taking it back. Almost overnight, investments resulting from the Paix des Braves more than tripled business, growing CCDC to nearly 800 employees during the peak of HydroQuébec’s EM-1 Rupert diversion project. Baribeau steadily climbed the corporate ladder until becoming president in 2012. Although he inherited an accumulated loss of over $20 million, that debt was erased in about five years and CCDC has been profitable since then. While project postponements since the pandemic dampened its growth rate, there are over $300 million in projects coming over the next two years.
www.nationnews.ca www.nationnews.ca September October24, 8, 2021 the Nation 21
“The majority are contracts from the CSB, growing Cree communities,” explained Baribeau. “Because we have a lot of Cree employees, we don’t have to transport or lodge them. The only guys we bring in are the engineers. That’s the last frontier for the Crees – we have engineering technicians but unfortunately not many engineers.” The pandemic has exacerbated a general shortage of Crees trained in the trades, with many workers refusing to endure the quarantines necessary to work outside the region. A similar industry-wide shortage of equipment and materials motivated the recent purchase
22 the Nation
of an asphalt plant in a joint venture with Nemaska, Wemindji and Chisasibi, as well as a concrete plant. “We don’t believe in taking over so when we grow like this it’s out of necessity because there’s nobody around to provide the service,” Baribeau said. “We’re the only fully Native-operated crushing operator. That’s the first business after ADC we’ve started.” Managing services at mines and other remote camps since 1996, Gestion ADC became the first Indigenous company to make Profit magazine’s fastest-growing company list. While it began as a CCDC joint venture, it’s become an independent
subsidiary of Cree Regional Economic Enterprises Company (CREECO). CCDC maintains successful long-term joint ventures with several Cree communities, plus a new one in the Waswanipi territory. “Joint ventures are a big part of Cree Construction,” said Baribeau. “It’s Crees working with Crees for Crees. CREECO put a lot of trust in us – a lot of our contracts are risky but they’re always there backing us up. Construction never goes as planned.” As a major employer and significant source of economic spin-offs, CCDC plays a key role in Eeyou Istchee’s economy. However, its pro-development business
model means it isn’t always popular among those concerned about recent changes in the region. “We participate in these new developments because, if you don’t have growth, you don’t have opportunities,” Baribeau asserted. “A big business we’ve been doing is environmental cleanups and rehabilitation of old sites. During the first phases of Hydro-Québec, instead of carrying their shit away they just buried it.” In addition to current school and access-road projects, Baribeau is optimistic about emerging opportunities under new Cree leadership, who have
already expressed interest in expanding their relationship with the company. After all, since CCDC is owned by Cree communities, their success is shared throughout Eeyou Istchee. “It’s a generation of leaders working together for the good of the whole Cree Nation,” Baribeau ventured. “The projects we generate go back to CREECO and the Board of Compensation, which are redistributed among the Cree communities for their new projects so it’s our own dam stopping the leakage. It all stays within the Cree world.”
“It’s a generation of leaders working together for the good of the whole Cree Nation”
the Nation 23
CREE JUSTICE FUNDS
2021-2022 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
FUNDING PRIORITIES
Prevention of Violence
Alcohol/Drugs Abuse and Addiction
Prevention of Crime
Addressing Trauma and Mental Health
TO APPLY CONTACT: Desiree Ottereyes, Justice Funds Administrator Department of Justice and Correctional Services
P: 819-978-3300 F: 819-978-3301
info@creejusticefunds.ca www.creejusticefunds.ca
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Politics
Money talks Innu Nation force feds, province back to table over Muskrat Falls by Ben Powless,
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
T
he threat of a lawsuit has helped the Innu Nation force the governments of Newfoundland and Labrador and Canada to renegotiate benefits from the troubled Muskrat Falls hydroelectric project. Estimated in 2010 to cost $6.2 billion, the project’s price tag has ballooned to $13 billion after years of delays. Negotiations with the Innu began in 2006 and were finalized with an Impact Benefit Agreement in 2011. One clause of the IBA included a percentage of profits from the sale of hydroelectricity. However, potential benefits were diminished by a last-minute deal this summer between Quebec and the federal government to prevent massive increases in electricity prices in the province to cover the cost overruns of the project. Those initial price increases would have seen residents forced to pay 23 cents per kilowatt-hour, up from 13 cents today. The federal government agreed to a $5.2 billion agreement in principle July 28 to cap rate hikes to 14.7 cents, plus annual increases. That deal caught the Innu Nation by surprise and threatened the level of benefits they might have received. “Canada made a deliberate choice to help the province at the Innu’s expense. The Innu people will not stand for this,” Innu Nation Grand Chief Etienne Rich told CBC News in August, just after the deal was announced. Shortly after, they
26 the Nation October 8, 2021 www.nationnews.ca
announced a lawsuit seeking an interim injunction to void the agreement and which accused the Crown of ignoring their fiduciary responsibilities. The Innu say they were not properly consulted as a stakeholder during the talks over the agreement. Nor, they say, were they provided a detailed financial breakdown of how their benefits would be impacted. That means if there were no profits from the project within 30 years, the Innu could be left owing $300 million to the province. The lawsuit was set to be heard by September 24. That afternoon, the Innu Nation, the province and the federal government released a joint statement indicating they had reached an agreement outside of the courts to negotiate a separate agreement. “The Parties have requested the Court defer releasing a decision on the injunction application to provide an opportunity for discussions to take place. The Parties will not be commenting further at this time,” the statement read. Those negotiations were originally set to conclude by September 30, but are now expected to take
“A dam is the most violent action that can be done to a river. I use the word violent because that’s what it is” - Dr. George Jackman
longer. The Innu Nation did not respond to a request for comment. During the original negotiations with the Innu Nation, there were extensive ecological issues raised concerning the potential impacts of the massive dam on the Churchill River basin. Later, a 2016 Harvard report showed that the dam would result in a rise in methylmercury levels in fish. This led to protests that year, followed by an agreement in 2018 to wetland capping to prevent the release of methylmercury. Dr. George Jackman of the environmental organization Riverkeeper explained that the rise in methylmercury is a result of natural processes prevented from happening. “During decomposition processes of organic vegetation, methylmercury is mobilized into the food web. Then there’s magnification of these toxins – each rung on that food chain is magnified by an order of 10.” Normally, a river would carry those things out to the ocean. But Jackman says that dams prevent the natural functions of rivers, with the result that when humans eat the fish, they end up consuming high doses of methylmercury,
which is extremely toxic for humans. “A dam is the most violent action that can be done to a river. I use the word violent because that’s what it is. It violently disrupts the function and flow of a river flowing for thousands of years, altering the river flow and sediment that is vital for all ecological integrity of riverine ecology,” Jackman told the Nation. “So what they do is convert a river into a lake.” Jackman says that many of the proposed solutions, such as fish elevators, don’t solve the problem. Another problem they create, he says, is that they block the sediment flow – a vital part of the ecological process. As that sediment gets deposited beneath the dam, the dam may eventually need to be dredged to prevent an overflow. “These reservoirs are boreal forest being flooded – ancient forests – so you’re losing the carbon sequestration of that forest. On top of that, you’re getting greenhouse gases being released from the impairment of decomposition processes similar to the uptake of methylmercury,” Jackman insisted. www.nationnews.ca October 8, 2021
the Nation 27
Community
Time to act Moose survey results confirm concerns about declining population by Patrick Quinn,
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
R
esults from last winter’s aerial survey confirm fears that Eeyou Istchee’s moose population is significantly declining. A downward trend in moose numbers had been observed for several years by Cree hunters and in success rates reported by sports hunters. “There is reason to be concerned, given the numbers we were provided,” said Isaac Voyageur, director of environment for the Cree Nation Government (CNG). “If we were to act now, there could be some positive change in the near future. We hope to have a collective approach to addressing this issue we’re faced with.” The survey was conducted by helicopter over five weeks last January and February in Zone 17 and the southern part of Zone 22, primarily in the Waswanipi region, in collaboration with the Ministère des Forêts, de la Faune et des Parcs (MFFP). Two Cree teams and three Quebec teams surveyed a sample size of moose habitat to extrapolate representative data for the territory. With no moose surveys conducted in Zone 17 since 2009 and in Zone 22 since 1991, the Cree Nation had requested action from Quebec for several years. It was only after the Crees resolved to undertake an independent survey with funding from the Canada
Moose hunting in earlier times
Nature Fund that Quebec announced in December that they would also participate, contributing about half the funding to study a larger area. “As I understand, Quebec didn’t provide any investments in monitoring moose because there weren’t enough sports hunters,” shared Nadia Saganash, senior advisor of CreeQuebec governance for the CNG. “It’s a concern that investments are not being put to monitor wildlife populations, especially important species that the
28 the Nation October 8, 2021 www.nationnews.ca
Cree and other Aboriginal people rely on for food security.” While the MFFP had compiled and analyzed the data by June, the Cree Nation didn’t receive the preliminary results until September 9, when a formal request was made following this year’s Annual General Assembly (AGA). Although the official reason for the delay was that this “sensitive information” had to first be presented to the minister, many have speculated that it
was to give sports hunters one more season based on old data. “There’s no explanation to justify not sharing this information with us,” Saganash told the Nation. “Receiving it at the last minute puts us in a frustrating position. It compromised many potential discussions that could have taken place between Quebec and the Cree, hindering possible solutions.” The survey showed a 35% decline in Zone 17 since 2009 to an estimated 1,036 moose. Even more concerning is the low reproductive rate. While over 50 calves born for every 100 females is usually considered an acceptable recruitment rate, the survey revealed only 30 calves being born per 100 females, down from 45 in the previous survey. The male-to-female ratio is also the lowest ever recorded. While it’s ideal to have a 50-50 ratio, the latest survey recorded only 27 males per 100 females in Zone 17. The density of the species in that zone was estimated at 0.52 moose per 10 square-kilometres and 0.41 in Zone 22, meaning only one moose per 20 square kilometres – far less than the 1.5 average in 10 square kilometres that Quebec’s management plan suggests is healthy. “I’m not even sure if we’ll be able to get there because of all the road activity and impacts of forestry,” explained Saganash. “Since 1985, it’s been going down more and more, especially after they implemented sports harvesting only for males in Zone 17. Certainly, there’s a pressure on males and the recoupment rate for females is also low, most likely because there’s not a lot of males.” From the 800 sports hunting permits issued in that zone last year, there were 50 moose harvested – significantly lower than the 69 average since 2009. The MFFP did not respond by press time to the Nation’s request for the number of permits issued this year or the reason for its long delay before sharing data. However, both Saganash and Voyageur cautioned that there could be multiple factors causing the decrease. Habitat degradation, disease and tick
infestation have become common threats to moose populations in recent years. “I’m not quick to point a finger at any one source,” said Voyageur. “It could be man-made; it could be a result of predation or disease. You notice this kind of trend everywhere – a drop in the numbers and rebounding later, nature taking its own course. If we were to help, it could go a long way to maintaining or improving the numbers in future years.” Changing migration patterns may also be a factor, as range limits have moved further north since the signing of the JBNQA. While Saganash recommended studying the rest of Zone 22 next year to achieve a more accurate picture, she acknowledged that aerial surveys are too costly and logistically complicated to conduct more than every five years. Success rates from the sports hunt are another indicator but not sufficiently reliable without accurate reporting from Cree hunters. Presented with the survey results at their AGA, the Cree Trappers’ Association (CTA) swiftly developed a resolution and renewed efforts to encourage hunters to report their harvests using the CTA mobile app. The CTA recommends precautionary conservation measures for hunters,
establishing an upper limit of harvest, collaboratively developing guidelines to reduce and monitor moose harvests, and closing the sports hunt to ensure a guaranteed harvest for the Cree until allocation levels can be set. “The most pressing decision is whether a moratorium on the sports hunt will be implemented immediately,” stated Saganash. “Given it’s almost starting, I’m not sure how feasible it will be. We need to react in terms of moose sustainability. We can’t ask tallymen to reduce their harvest if the sports hunt is still open.” At press time, the CNG Board Council was discussing whether to close the sports hunt now or after this season, the possibility of an allocation for the sports hunt, and what guidelines to develop. Saganash recommends building upon the tallyman’s role to ensure the traditional harvest management system remains effective. “Cree tallymen had a lot of concerns about habitat quality, the impact of forestry and more access in the territory,” Saganash shared. “It will be up to them to make sure that Cree harvesting levels are respected and don’t compromise the moose population. That’s for the benefit of all.”
www.nationnews.ca October 8, 2021
the Nation 29
CREE NATION GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY
Félicitations à Cree Construction and Development Company à l’occasion de leur 45e anniversaire. Nous sommes fiers d’être votre partenaire d’affaire depuis ces dernières décennies
Congratulations to Cree Construction and Development Company for their 45th anniversary. We are proud to be your partner over the last few decades
For more more info... info... For
Jordan’s Principle Office Jordan’s Principle Office Cree Board of Health and Social Services Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay (CBHSSJB) of James Bay (CBHSSJB) 418-923-3355 x42186 418-923-3355 x42186 18tcr.jordans.principle@ssss.gouv.qc.ca 18tcr.jordans.principle@ssss.gouv.qc.ca creehealth.org/jp creehealth.org/jp
The The legacy legacy of Jordan River River Jordan Anderson Anderson Individual Individual Applications Applications for for EeyouIstchee Istchee Eeyou
Jordan was born born in in Norway NorwayHouse House Jordan was Cree Nation, Manitoba in 1999, with Cree Nation, Manitoba in 1999, with multiple disabilities and and stayed stayedinin multiple disabilities the hospital from from birth. birth. When Whenhe he was 2 years old, old, doctors doctors said saidhe he could move to aa special special home homefor forhis his medical needs. needs. However, However, the thefederal federal and provincial governments governmentscould could not agree on who who should should pay payfor forhis his home-based care. care. Jordan Jordan passed passed away in the hospital hospital at at the the age ageof of5.5. In 2007, the House House of of Commons Commons passed Jordan’s Principle Jordan’s Principle in inmemory memoryofof Jordan’s Principle Principleisisaa Jordan. Today, Jordan’s legal obligation, which means legal obligation, which meansitithas hasno no end date—it will support First Nations end date—it will support First Nations children for children for generations generations to tocome. come.
IsIs your your child childeligible eligible for for Jordan’s Jordan’s Principle? Principle?
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1-855-572-4453 1-855-572-4453 Your child does not have to have a disability to bechild covered Jordan’s Principle. Your doesunder not have to have a disability to be covered under Jordan’s Principle.
Current eligibility criteria under Current eligibility criteria under Jordan’s Principle are: Jordan’s Principle are: • 0 to 18 years old • 0 to 18 years old • Must have a band number • (or Must have band a band number parents’ number, (or parents’ band number, if not yet assigned) if not yet assigned)
Puzzles Crossword
H
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: E C L A T
C C H I A T R E A C C A F T O G R E C O E R A G E S H A C T U L O O M T U N A O P E N
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S P E C T A T O R
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Copyright 2021 by The Puzzle Syndicate
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Quartz variety Water conduits Bull's sound Sunday speaker Firms up Addition total Legal prefix Part of BTU Strong suit Anagram for "time" Teeny bit Able to be transferred Drought ender Get to work on Time? Aversion
40 Aid for a fracture 43 Scold, with "out" 45 King in a Steve Martin song 48 Prophetic shrine 50 Study nook 51 Type of fund 52 Contact, in a way 53 Not right 54 Hauls around 56 Sign of spring 57 "For Pete's ___!" 59 Enroll in 60 Gave the boot 63 Kind of tide
SUDOKU
No. 291
Tough
Previous solution - Medium
8 5 7 9 7 8 8 9 5 6 4 6 9 3 7 1 2 3 2 2 3 4 5
9 5 2 7
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You can find more help, tips and hints at www.str8ts.com
© 2021 Syndicated Puzzles
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No. 291
Easy
6 7 3 4 6 3 9 3 5 7 6 5 3 9 4 1 6 7 9 4 2 4 2 3 8 8 7 6
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.
32 the Nation October 8, 2021 www.nationnews.ca
Previous solution - Very Hard
1 5 6 8 7 9 4 2 3
© 2021 Syndicated Puzzles
S A L S A
1 2 3 4 5 ACROSS 1 Cut drastically, 14 as prices 6 In the thick of 17 10 Shrill barks 20 14 Ski trail 15 Walk the floor 23 24 16 Opposed to, 26 27 hillbilly-style 17 Thing taken for 30 31 granted 19 Guitar 37 38 accessory 42 43 20 SWAT operation 21 Intense cram 47 session 51 52 53 23 Ms. Spacek 25 Take back to the 55 lab 26 Extinguish, as a 61 fire 28 Garlicky sauce 64 30 "Ugly Betty" 67 actress Ortiz 31 Slightly wet 33 Type of drum 37 Drink garnish 67 "Anything ___?" 39 Thorny blooms 68 Flock members 41 Tickled pink 69 Mixer setting 42 Lofty space? 44 Entice DOWN 46 Sequel's sequel 1 Sail support 47 Young pig 2 Actress Kudrow 49 Giving off light 3 Helper 51 Winter warmer 4 Small apartment 54 Nashville NFLer 5 ___ and haw 55 Harry Potter 6 In a fitting way actress 7 Daily delivery 58 Indian royal 8 Marilyn Monroe, 61 Oration station e.g. 62 Nonstop talker 9 "Taxi Driver" 64 Main point actor 65 Campsite sight 10 America's Cup 66 Prove otherwise sport
by Margie E. Burke
3 2 4 5 6 1 7 9 8
9 7 8 4 3 2 5 1 6
7 6 5 9 4 8 1 3 2
4 1 9 6 2 3 8 5 7
8 3 2 7 1 5 9 6 4
2 9 7 3 5 4 6 8 1
6 8 1 2 9 7 3 4 5
5 4 3 1 8 6 2 7 9
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.
What makes good tea good?
Rez Notes
by Sonny Orr
A
fter finishing another conference via video and thanking all the gods for our relatively safety due to the remoteness of our community, I head off to our little camp to fetch some water. Is there a boil water advisory by any chance? No, it’s just an excuse to get out on the land and get some chlorine-free water to steep our tea in, including the Labrador teas, which naturally sweeten out tastebuds and smooth out the hard tannins of the East Indian teas we drink daily. Yes, we are tea freaks with a mission. We love the waters of the lands and the different flavours that each water source provides. If we lived in the past, the waters would be treated with great care and respect. One water source for a camp would be used for the life spans of generations and the waters of that spring would never touch the human hand or anything else other than the aging tin cup used to ladle the crisp cold waters into a teapot. Water is a precious part of life and so is the need to steep our teas in the ways passed on from one generation to the next. Today, the convenient K-Cup tea is the latest rage – even coffee shops are starting to offer evening sips of steeped teas to calm your inner caffeine freak. Yes, tea is popular, but water is an even more critical component of our need to stay hydrated without gulping imported bottled water, which, is more expensive than gasoline. Yet water is everywhere
Water is everywhere around us, so why aren’t we the water barons of the North? around us, so why aren’t we the water barons of the North? As I sink my water container in a deep spot in the rapids, painfully bending over while balancing myself on a few damp rocks that protrude from the rushing waters, I wonder if all this is worth the effort. Didn’t we just install a new high-tech water system that pumps out water with extreme clarity and such convenience? Or is it really the added chlorine to kill any bacteria and save us from stomach cramps, sicknesses and possibly a few parasites, that is making our water very safe to drink? None of the above – it’s the tea’s level of darkness. If the Labrador tea and regular tea come out dark, then the water is not good for making it. Only water that can sustain a light amber colour after being steeped and boiled for good measure and taste can be called good water.
Meanwhile, the coffee drinker still rages within me this morning – should I have another cup of java and fire somebody today or sip some tasty tea and delay the inevitable for another day? The coffee wins and the jagged withdrawal of caffeine pangs dissipate but return just before lunch. Tea comes in handy during the full moon, as nothing then will stop pulling an all-nighter wide-eyed and filled with thoughts of anything weird. So, does tea win our debate about what makes a good tea a good? It’s the water, and the argument ends there as I toss the last five gallons of water and head home to save the day with a full pot of tea. My back will not forgive me this time, but my cranky family will thank me for keeping the peace once again.
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www.nationnews.ca October 8, 2021
the Nation 33
Bannock & Groundhog Day
&B
T
Tea
by Maïtée Labrecque-Saganash
I
was not expecting much from a federal election in the midst of a fourth wave of Covid-19, but I must say that it was the most boring election I’ve ever witnessed so far in my life. It was not only boring. Dissolving Parliament during a pandemic comes with its technical challenges, which were mostly overlooked by Elections Canada. There was a significantly smaller number of polling stations, some Indigenous communities were told to vote in fly-in communities or urban centres, and people infected with Covid were not allowed to vote in-person. Voter suppression is not a good look for Elections Canada and Justin Trudeau. The Canadian electoral system is already dysfunctional as it is. Singlemember plurality is a major factor of why we always end up with the Conservatives or Liberals winning. In Canada, if your party wins the most seats, you get to form the government. However, even if you have the highest percentage of seats – let’s say 40% – there is still 60% of voters who voted for other parties and not for you. This electoral system feeds into the lack of diversity in Parliament. For the longest time, Elizabeth May was the only Green Party MP even if the party would get millions of votes across the country. Electoral reform would eventually allow younger and more progressive political parties to form governments, which is
In 2015, Trudeau promised he would reform the first-past-the-post system, but obviously he didn’t
why the Liberals and Conservatives do not want to commit to it. In 2015, Trudeau promised he would reform the first-pastthe-post system, but obviously he didn’t. Scrolling through Twitter, I found many posts stating that there were no polling stations in a particular community and that their voter card instructed them to vote in another fly-in community or in a town located an hour’s drive or more away. Indigenous voters in remote areas always had problems with Elections Canada, but this time it was disastrous, and many were not able to vote on September 20. They simply narrowed it down to the fact that there were fewer
polling stations due to the pandemic. Parliament did suggest that the elections should have been held on a weekend to ensure enough volunteers at polling stations, but it was not taken into consideration. I have to agree that dissolving Parliament at this time was irresponsible and ended up being useless, as the number of seats for each party remained pretty much the same. Someone on Twitter said: “This election could have been an e-mail.” I agree with this statement. At least, I went to bed that day satisfied that Maxime Bernier lost his riding.
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 October 8, 2021 www.nationnews.ca
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