ᓂᓈᔅᑯᒨ
ᐊᔨᒧ ᐃᓐ ᐋ ᐋᒋᔮᒥᑎᓅᓈᓂᐅᒡ
ᐊᓅᐦᒡ ᐅ ᐧᐋᑎᐦᒋᐱᔨᒡ ᒥᓐ ᒑ ᒥᐧᔮᔨᐦᑖᑭᓂᐅᒡ, ᐧᐃᑎᓂᐦᑖᐤ ᐱᑦ ᒑ ᒌ ᒫᒥᑐᓈᔨᐦᑎᒥᐦᒄ ᐊᓂᐦᐃ ᐋ ᒫᒥᐦᒑᒡ ᒑᐧᑳᓂᐦᐄ ᐧᐋᔪᒡ ᐋ ᒌ ᒥᔨᑭᐧᐃᔨᐦᒄ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒑ ᒌ ᓂᓈᔅᑭᒧᔨᐦᒄ ᐊᔅᑯ ᒫᒨ ᐋ ᐧᐃᒑᐱᑎᓯᒥᑐᔨᐦᒄ ᐋ ᑭᓂᐧᐋᔨᒥᐦᑯᒡ ᐊᔅᑏᐃᔨᒥᓂᐅᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᐊᔅᑎᐦᑖᐧᐃᓂᐤ ᔮᐧᑳᐦ ᐋ ᓈᑭᑎᐧᐋᔨᐦᑎᒥᐦᒄ᙮ ᒥᔅᑎᐦ ᒧᔥ ᒋᓂᓈᔅᑯᒫᓂᐅᒡ ᐊᓂᒌ ᐧᐋᒋᐦᒡ ᐃᔮᐱᒋᔨᐦᑯᒡ ᐧᐃᔨᐧᐋᐤ ᐋ ᓈᑭᑎᐧᐋᔨᐦᒥᑎᐦᑯᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒑ ᒌ ᒋᐦᑳᔮᐱᐦᑎᒥᑯᐦᒡ ᐊᓂᒌ ᓈᔥᒡ ᓵᑐᔅᑭᐦᒡ ᐄᔨᔨᐤ ᐋᐅᐦᒋᒡ ᐊᔅᑎᐦᑖᐧᐃᓈᐦᒡ ᐅᑎᐦ ᐄᔨᔨᐤ ᐊᔅᒌᐦᒡ᙮ ᒋᑕᐦᐄᓈᐦᒡ ᐊᑯᑎᐦ ᒧᔑᐦᑖᔨᐦᒄ ᐊᓐ ᐋ ᐃᔑ ᐧᐋᐱᐦᑎᒥᐦᒄ ᐋ ᒋᔅᑎᒫᐧᐋᔨᐦᑎᒥᐦᒄ, ᒥᓯᐧᐋ ᐊᑭᓂᐧᐋᔨᒥᑐᔨᐦᒄ᙮ ᐊᓐ ᑳ ᐃᔑ ᐊᔨᒥᐦᐄᑯᔨᐦᒄ ᓄᔓ ᐱᐳᓐᐦ ᐅᑖᐦ ᐃᔑ ᐸᒋ ᐅᑖᐦᒡ ᐋᐅᒄ ᑳ ᒥᔅᑯᐦᑖᑭᓂᐅᒡ ᐊᓐ ᐋ ᐃᔑ ᐧᐋᐧᐃᒋᐦᐄᑐᔨᐦᒄ ᐊᑎᑎᐤ ᒫᒃ ᑭᔮᐦ ᐊᒋᑎᒫᒑᔨᒥᑐᔨᐦᒄ ᐊᑎ ᐹᐦᐹᔨᑯᔨᐦᒄ, ᐋᐅᔅᒋᐦᑖᔨᐦᒄ ᐊᓐ ᐊᔅᐹᔨᒧᐧᐃᓐ ᐊᓂᑖᐦ ᐃᔑ ᓂᔅᑖᒥᐦᒡ ᐋ ᐄᑖᐱᔨᐦᒄ᙮ ᐋᐅᒄ ᑳ ᐃᔑ ᒥᔅᑯᐧᐋᐦᑖᔨᐦᒄ ᐅ ᑳ ᐃᔑ ᓂᒋᔥᑭᒥᐦᒄ ᐊᒋᔅᑯᑎᒫᑯᔨᐦᒄ ᒥᔅᑏᐦ ᒑᐧᑳᓐ, ᐋ ᐃᔑᓈᑯᐦᒡ ᒑ ᒌ ᓂᓈᔅᑯᒧᔨᐦᒄ ᐊᑎ ᐹᐦᐹᔨᑯᑖᐅᓯᔨᐦᒄ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒫᒃ ᒋᐧᐃᒑᐧᐋᑭᓂᐅᒡ ᐋ ᒋᔅᒋᔨᒄ ᒑ ᑖᐅᐦᒄ ᐋᐦᑖᒡ ᐅ ᒑ ᐊᑎ ᐅᑎᐦᒋᐱᔨᒡ ᒑ ᒥᐧᔮᔨᐦᑖᑭᓂᐅᒡ ᐋ ᐊᔨᐧᐋᔑᓈᓂᐅᒡ᙮ ᑭᒫᐦ ᐃᔑᓈᑯᐦᒡ ᒑ ᒌ ᐃᔮᔮᒄ ᒥᐧᔮᔨᒧᐧᐃᓐ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒋᔮᒫᐧᐋᔨᐦᑎᒧᐧᐃᓐ ᒋᒋᐧᐋᐧᐋᐦᒡ ᒫᐧᑳᒡ ᐊᐱᒥᐱᔨᒡ ᐋ ᒥᑯᓵᒋᓯᑳᒡ ᒫᒨ ᐊᐦᑖᔮᒄ ᐊᓂᒌ ᐹᓲᒡ ᒋᑐᑖᒥᒡ᙮ ᑭᒫᐦ ᑖᑦ ᐊᓐ ᐊᐦᒑᒄᐦ ᒥᐧᔮᔨᐦᑎᒧᐧᐃᓐ ᓈᓂᐦᐊᐧᐃᐦᑳᑐᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ, ᐧᐋᐧᐃᒋᐦᐄᑐᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᓯᒋᔮᓯᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ ᑎᑯᐦᒡ ᒋᑖᐦᐄᐧᐋᒡ ᐅ ᒑ ᐊᑎ ᐱᐳᐦᒡ᙮ ᓂᔮᓐ ᐅᐦᒋ ᐊ ᒫᒧᐱᔨᒡ ᐄᔨᔨᐅᒡ ᐅᑎᐦ (ᐄᔨᔨᐤ ᐊᔅᒌᐦᒡ)/ᐄᔨᔨᐤ ᑎᐹᔨᐦᒋᒑᓯᐤ, ᒋᐧᐋᒋᔮᒥᑎᓈᓐ ᒋᐱᑯᓵᔨᒥᑎᓈᓐ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒑ ᒌ ᒥᔪ ᒥᑯᓵᒋᔑᑭᓂᐦᑖᔮᒄ ᒋᔮ ᑭᔮᐦ ᐊᓂᒌ ᑳ ᓵᒋᐦᐄᐧᑖᐤ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒋᐱᑯᓵᔨᐦᒥᑎᓈᒡ ᒥᔪᐱᒫᑎᓯᐧᐃᓐ ᒑ ᒌ ᐄᔮᔮᒄ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒑ ᒌ ᑎᑯᐦᒡ ᒋᔮᒫᐧᐋᔨᐦᑎᒧᐧᐃᓐ ᐅ ᒑ ᐊᑎ ᐅᔅᒋᐱᐳᐦᒡ 2022᙮
A Holiday Message of Gratitude This holiday season, we take a moment to reflect upon the many things we are appreciative and thankful for as we continue to work together to keep our people and communities safe. We remain forever grateful to the people on the front lines that help protect us and for all the displays of meaningful support among community members across Eeyou Istchee. It warms our hearts to know that when it matters most, we are all there for one another. The adversities of the past two years have strengthened our bonds and, in a way, made us more compassionate towards one another, renewing our hope for the future. We also realize that if this experience has taught us anything, it is to be grateful for our families and friends as we look forward to the special moments we get to spend with one another this holiday season. May you all have warmth and peace within your homes during the holidays as you come together with those closest to you. May the holiday spirit of caring, sharing and gratitude be in your hearts throughout the year. On behalf of the Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee)/Cree Nation Government, we extend our very best Season’s Greetings to you and your loved ones and our warmest wishes for a healthy and peaceful New Year 2022. ᒪᓐᑏ ᑲᓪ-ᒫᔅᑏ ᒋᔖᐅᒋᒫ ᑳᓐ/ᑳ ᓃᑳᓂᐱᔥᑎ ᒃ
Mandy Gull-Masty Grand Chief/Chairperson
ᓈᕐᒥᓐ ᐋᐹᒌ ᑎᔮ ᒋᔥᑭ ᐋᑦ ᒋᔖᐅᒋᒫ ᑳᓐ /ᑎᔮ ᒋᔥᑭ ᐋᑦ ᑳ ᓃᑳᓂᐱᔥᑎᒥᔨᒡ
Norman A. Wapachee Deputy Grand Chief/Vice-Chairperson
CONTENTS 10
EDITORIAL 4
Merry Xmas
NEWS
Protests Erupt
Staying vigilant
5
An unsafe environment
6
IN BRIEF
9
FEATURES Supporting the Wet’suwet’en land defenders
16
Honorary Doctorate
Business
National outcry
10
Dr. Saganash
16
Oppurtunities for growth
22
A skyline presence
31
REZ NOTES 33
Xmas cheer
UTNS 34
Christmas past
31 22
Ambitious Odea tower
Photo by Danielle Valade
The Grand Economic Circle
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*Puzzles will be back next issue
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Editorial
Merry Xmas by Will Nicholls
W
e really don’t have too many instances of chestnuts roasting on an open fire (I do mine in the oven) nor the sound of sleigh bells ringing unless you brought some and hung them up on the door to announce the arrival of guests and Santa. These days Santa has to use the door as not many of us have a chimney. Christmas has changed thanks to new technologies and mass marketing. These days, it’s rare to get a handmade gift crafted by a loved one, though we hear some still make moccasins but it’s not the norm. With the Covid pandemic, it’s made Christmas lonely for many. The large gatherings and raucous Christmas office parties just aren’t acceptable anymore. For those of us in the south we have to have a FaceTime, Zoom or social media exchange of greetings. That leaves much to be desired. Not being able to go home last year was hard on many of us. Christmas was always the time to get
together with family and friends we hadn’t seen for most of the year. We’re thankful that this year we might be able to return to Eeyou Istchee since we are double vaccinated. Luckily many of us are. The Nation encourages everyone to do so as to not harm others. We also encourage Crees to attach sleigh bells to their snowmobiles and ATVs to let everyone know the Christmas spirit is still alive in the North. Another way of keeping the spirit alive is to share. Many communities have food banks and we encourage you to be generous. After all, many community members haven’t seen the levels of employment we had previous to the pandemic and are hurting. Along with the food banks you can donate toys to make a child’s Christmas a little brighter. Some communities have an Elders feast and if everyone donates a little country food it would make them feel a whole lot better. In the past, these Elders shared their country food with others who
couldn’t hunt – be they Elders, widows and single parents. It’s time to give back, especially at this time of year. And don’t forget to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. There are people who need to hear that and the smile hidden behind a mask can always be seen in the eyes. It could make all the difference in the world to them. Christmas isn’t known as suicide season for nothing and reaching out to those and letting them know they aren’t alone can make a difference. Let’s make sure it’s something that is not going to happen at home in Eeyou Istchee. Christmas may have changed but let’s make those traditions of sharing, caring and love for your fellow man or woman something that we will still hold close to our way of life. Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Joyous Kwanzaa, Happy Solstice and Happy Holidays to one and all from all of us here at the Nation and Beesum Communications.
Happy Holidays and peace on earth for the coming year! ᒑ ᒥᔪᒥᑯᔖᒌᔑᑭᓂᐦᑖᔮᒄ ᑭᔮ ᒑ ᒋᔮᒫᐅᐙᔨᐦᑎᒫᒄ ᐆ ᒑ ᐅᔅᒋᐱᐳᐦᒡ!
Joyeuses Fêtes et paix sur la terre pour l’année qui vient! - Grand Chief, Mandy Gull-Masty, Chairperson/Présidente
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 X. Kataquapit, 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 December 17, 2021 www.nationnews.ca
CMCA AUDITED
C O V I D - 1 9 U P D AT E
by Ben Powless, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Staying vigilant Omicron variant sparks new Covid concerns
T
he Cree Health Board confirmed one new case of Covid in December, linked to a banquet event for students in the Ottawa/Gatineau region. The case involves a person from Waswanipi who is isolating outside the community. The CHB said that contact tracing is taking place, and that over 30 people in Waswanipi have been tested, while others are isolating and awaiting testing. They indicated that more positive cases may be identified as the investigation evolves. The case comes as concerns rise over Omicron, a new Covid variant. Health authorities around the world are scrambling to determine if this new variant poses extra risk of infection, mortality, or an ability to evade vaccines. The CHB is monitoring the variant and its presence in Quebec but noted that the Delta variant is still dominant. So far there has only been one case of Omicron detected in the province, from a traveller who returned from Nigeria in November. According to a New York Times report, there was no evidence yet that the new variant is more transmissible, but there is some evidence that it can reinfect people more easily. This hints that the virus may be more able to evade the body’s immune system. Regardless, it did not seem to
present any more risk of hospitalization or death so far. Meanwhile, the fourth wave, which had shown signs of a retreat, remains in full swing, with nearly 1,200 cases of Covid being detected in one day, the highest case count since April. This has led a Quebec health institute to say they expect hospitalizations to rise in the coming weeks by perhaps 30%, as infections have doubled over the past month. Despite growing concern, Premier François Legault increased indoor gathering limits from 10 to 20 for the holidays even though Health Minister Christian Dubé urged Quebecers to seriously reconsider any planned travel over the holidays in light of the new variant. Indoor private gatherings of up to 50 people are still allowed in Eeyou Istchee. The Cree Nation Government and the Cree Health Board implemented new measures, such as relocating meetings from the south to Eeyou Istchee – or cancelling them altogether – until after the holidays. The CHB also urged all travelers and workers to get regular screening tests, even if they are vaccinated. The CHB said it would provide more guidelines for holiday gatherings. Meanwhile, the outbreak of Covid in many Nunavik communities continued to
be a serious situation. Travel between Ungava Bay and Hudson Bay is limited to essential services, and travelers are asked to check with Whapmagoostui public security for updates on local measures. Patients and escorts travelling south by charter under Wiichiihiituwin are being asked to either show a proof of double vaccination or a negative covid test from within three days before flying. Even if patients are fully vaccinated, they will then need a negative Covid test from Montreal, Val-d’Or or Chibougamau to fly back home. Vaccinations for children aged 5-11 have begun in Eeyou Istchee, with Wemindji launching a campaign to get children vaccinated with a firetruck. Clinic, public safety and fire department staff wore superhero costumes as 81 children were vaccinated the first day. “Everyone participated,” Head Nurse Michael Moutquin said. “We all want our people to get vaccinated and get that protection. This is a community effort.” The Cree School Board announced that schools will continue online for the first two weeks after the Christmas break, January 4-14. Work packages will be distributed, and each school will provide schedules and details.
Wishing you a Wonderful
Holiday Season & Happy New Year
WWW.CREECULTURALINSTITUTE.CA
www.nationnews.ca December 17, 2021 the Nation 5
Mistissini secondary school closed due to bullying
W
ith escalating bullying and attendance issues, Voyageur Memorial High School in Mistissini made the difficult decision to close Secondary 1 and 2 classes on November 29 for an indefinite period. “We have the interest of our students at heart and we have to make sure the school is a safe place for them to learn,” school administrators stated on social media. “The cases of bullying are skyrocketing; the number of violent incidents is multiplying.” Vice-principal Joanie Laplante said the school is also concerned about decreased attendance and attention in class. While organizing assemblies with parents to address the situation, teachers prepared work packages for students to take home. On December 1, Sec 1 and 2 students were invited for a group brainstorm and school wellness survey at the Mistissini Youth Centre to anonymously share ideas for making the school a safe and nurturing learning environment. Then, on December 6 and 7, students attended mandatory reintegration circles with their parents or guardians in the school gymnasium. Following the first meeting, Voyageur invited 50 of 105 Sec 2 students to return to classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays until the Christmas break. The parent assemblies included a summary of the situation, presentation of their agreement for reintegration and an introduction to the new Mozaïk Parent Portal, a pilot project launched in Mistissini schools ahead of a region-wide implementation next June. The website and app enables parents to instantly be notified of their child’s absence along with other information. “Parents can view information about their child so they can follow attendance easily and it will be easier to send out notices,” said Sarah Pash, chairperson of the Cree School Board (CSB). “We need to modernize the way we’re doing things and use all the tools we have available. This will allow information to be shared in a more timely and efficient way.” The CSB has been developing a powerful data management system that will help better understand student
6 the Nation December 17, 2021 www.nationnews.ca
An unsafe environment by Patrick Quinn,
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
success factors like attendance, literacy and graduation rates. Absenteeism is a longstanding issue throughout the region, with some students missing up to 30% of classes. “It is a huge issue but it’s more than just an issue of academic success,” Pash told the Nation. “This also has to do with our ability to build cohesion in the school, for students to feel they belong, to develop in a strong way, and for our students to be part of the school community in a positive and supportive way.” While every school is working on initiatives to improve attendance, Pash believes that the issue requires a broader discussion within communities to consider what role organizations like the recreation department or youth council can play in encouraging student engagement. Pash has recently been discussing partnership opportunities with Bertie Wapachee, chairperson of the Cree Health Board, to ensure young people are given every chance for success. With even very young students increasingly dealing with anxiety issues, mental health has been a specific focus. “We know these are things we can’t tackle alone as a school board,” said Pash. “We need to look at how do we build positive relationships in our schools, focusing on mental health and personal wellbeing, and how do we help our
children become more resilient? Part of becoming more resilient is helping them shelter themselves from things that will negatively affect their mental health.” The Covid pandemic has unsurprisingly been a significant cause of rising anxiety and isolation around the world. Although the CSB experienced fewer school closures than other jurisdictions, precautionary measures have profoundly impacted personal interactions and limited the availability of activities and events that are a vital source of mental wellbeing. “We have to realize that life is not the same as before the pandemic,” Pash asserted. “It’s starting to take its toll on our younger population – they have been immensely affected by all of this. It’s important for us to start focusing on healing from this pandemic. How can our school system be a healing system?” Distancing guidelines have increased reliance on online interactions for work, education and socializing. While the internet has helped people stay connected to the outside world, it’s also resulted in unhealthy behaviours. According to L1ght, an organization that tracks online harassment, there was a 70% increase in cyberbullying in just a few months. “We’ve seen a definite rise in cyberbullying, in the ways that social media has been weaponized in so many ways,”
confirmed Pash. “We have to be mindful of how our young people interact with each other on social media. But this is also a discussion we have to have in our communities. As parents, what limits are we setting and what are we modelling for our children?” Addressing the problem of bullying has been a priority at the CSB, which is planning to implement an anti-bullying program developed in collaboration with a world-renowned researcher on the subject. Pash hopes it ignites a broader public discussion because bullying is an issue certainly not limited to schools. Pash believes acting out is a cry for help that can be answered by helping young people establish a supportive network and healthy routine, developing their identity grounded in culture, language and a place in their community. She wants to build their sense of empowerment and resilience, helping them believe in themselves and to realize everything they can accomplish with their education. “Shutting down a school is something the administration doesn’t take lightly,” said Pash. “I know everybody is concerned about it. When it comes right down to it, a school is a community. That community does need the support of the wider community to help create the best environment it can for young people.”
This book documents Dr. Richardson's journey through cancer and offers suggestions for helpers seeking to help others navigate adversity and find safety, dignity and hope. To purchase: www.jcharltonpublishing.com This book discusses Indigenous healing across contexts and provides examples for well-being.
$33.00
www.nationnews.ca December 17, 2021
the Nation 7
ᐅᒌ ᐅᑎᐦ ᐃᔮᐱᑎᓰᒡ ᒋᐱᑯᓵᔨᒥᑯᐧᐋᐅᒡ ᒋᔨ ᑭᔮᐦ ᐊᓂᔮᔨᐤ ᑳᓵᒋᐦᐄᒥᑦ ᒑ ᒧᒋᒑᔨᐦᑎᐧᒫᐦᒄ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒑ ᒌᔮᒫᐧᐋᔨᐦᑖᑯᐦᒡ ᐊᓂᑎᐦ ᐋᐦᑖᔮᒄ ᐆ ᒑ ᐅᑎᐦᒋᐱᔨᒡ ᐋ ᐊᔨᐧᐋᓯᓈᓂᐅᒡ!
HappyNew Year Thank you for your trust.
Stay tuned throughout 2022 to learn more about our new undertakings.
May this year be an exceptional year of health, happiness and success for you and your loved ones. The Eeyou communications team wishes you a Happy New Year filled with memorable moments whether they take place face-to-face or virtually! __ eeyou.ca
In Brief First meeting of Eeyou Tripartite Table Grand Chief Mandy Gull-Masty convened her first meeting of the Eeyou Tripartite Table in Chisasibi November 18 with leaders of the Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay (CBHSSJB) and the Cree School Board (CSB). This initial meeting covered topics including inter-community travel, Cree language and a cultural baseline study, communications strategies between entities and the need for a special needs policy. The Cree entities agreed to support an upcoming special needs conference for parents and practitioners planned by the CSB. “Enhancing services and resources to students with special needs and their families is a priority issue both for myself and the Cree School Board Council of Commissioners,” stated CSB Chairperson Sarah Pash. “Our regional partners will be key to this effort. All our
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all. ᒥᓯᐙ ᒑ ᒥᔻᔨᐦᑎᒫᒄ ᒑ ᒥᑯᔖᒌᔑᑳᒡ ᑭᔮ ᒑ ᐅᔅᒋᐱᐳᐦᒡ᙮
children deserve the best of supports and services within the school system. We look forward to announcing details for a much-anticipated Special Needs Conference in the new year!” Enhancing communication and cooperation between Cree entities was a common theme in recent elections. “It avoids unnecessary silos, and I am certainly grateful to be part of a new system of establishing common goals, vision and introducing initiatives for the Cree Nation,” said CBHSSJB chairperson Bertie Wapachee. “I look forward to exploring new ideas, moving away from outdated systems, initiating new trends and strengthening our entities’ new partnership with the Grand Chief and the chairperson of the Cree School Board.”
First Nations families play the Feud The newest season of Family Feud Canada has featured First Nations families displaying their cultural pride and sense of humour. The Lynxleg family, Anishinaabes from the Tootinaowaziibeeng First Nation in Manitoba, appeared on the November 8 episode wearing political t-shirts, large earrings and traditional ribbon skirts.
Their shirts represented Indigenous issues including land back, clean water, missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, and residential schools. Joshua Lynxleg, who signed up his family on a whim, also showcased his two-spirit identity. “It was just our duty to bring out our culture,” he told CBC. “My friend Susan Guimond made the ribbon skirt especially tailored to me. We went to the fabric store and of course bought the gayest, most glittery fabric there was.” Earlier in October, David Maracle and his family were proud to represent Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory, about 180 kilometres east of Toronto. Over three episodes, the family won $10,000. “It’s always important for people to see people having a good time,” said Maracle. “It was nice to be able to show off our kids’ jerseys and they let us bring our lacrosse sticks and talk about the creator’s game. So that was really cool.” Over three seasons on CBC television, eight fami-
In Brief
lies identifying as Indigenous have appeared on Family Feud Canada. Besides the prize money, Indigenous families on the show are proud to share a positive representation of their people. “We’re very humorous,” said Whitney Lynxleg. “We’re a very accepting, loving culture and [Canadians] should be more like us. I feel that it’s about time that we are in the forefront, in the spotlight, especially with everything happening.”
Correction In the Christmas Gift Guide (Vol. 29, No. 2), we incorrectly said that the online service of Chisasibi’s Ouwah store was currently closed. This is not the case; the online service is available. Our journalist was misled by a post on Facebook – a good warning for the reliability of social media! We apologize for the error and encourage our readers to shop at Ouwah.
Merry Christmas from everyone at
the Nation
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Features
National outcry Photos by Nhattan Nguyen
R
esponding to a 2019 British Columbia Supreme Court injunction, RCMP officers have arrested over 30 Wet’suwet’en community members, supporters and even journalists in BC in the past few weeks. This action has led to protests across the country in support of the Wet’suwet’en and their efforts to block a fossil-fuel pipeline from entering their territory. Wet’suwet’en hereditary chiefs and community members first began to block access to their territory in 2019, which led to the initial court order. They say the $6.6 billion Coastal GasLink pipeline, proposed by TC Energy, threatens to harm their traditional lands and the salmon populations, and had issued an eviction notice to the company in January 2020. “All Wet’suwet’en clans have rejected the Coastal GasLink fracked gas pipeline because this is our home,” spokesperson Sleydo’ (Molly Wickham) said in a statement posted on the website of the Gidimt’en Checkpoint, the group controlling access to the territory. “Our medicines, our berries, our food, the animals, our water, our culture are all here since time immemorial. We are obligated to protect our ways of life for our babies unborn.” On November 19, the RCMP arrested 15 people at a place called Coyote Camp, where Wet’suwet’en members had set up a small hut and camp to stop access to the lands. Two journalists were also arrested. A video by journalist Michael Toledano shows the RCMP officers approach the hut with firearms, a police dog, and using a chainsaw to break down the door, before arresting those inside. Tom Engel of the Criminal Trial Lawyers’ Association told the Toronto Star the use of force seemed “unnecessary” and “excessive”. “You combine the canine, you combine all these police officers and then you combine the guns being pointed and the way the [emergency response team] is dressed,” said Engel. “This is all a show of force and therefore it’s a use of force.” In Montreal, news of the arrests sparked a November 27 protest organized by the Convergence des luttes anticapital-
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by Ben Powless Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
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“It is Cas Yikh territory. That means we’re the stewards” - Chief Woos, a hereditary chief
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istes that drew hundreds to the RCMP’s Quebec headquarters, where protesters decried what they called racism by the police organization. The rally began with drums by Marlene Hale, a Wet’suwet’en community member now living and studying in Montreal. From there, it continued downtown until the police declared the protest illegal, firing tear gas and arresting four people. Hale was angry because her brother and his wife were among the ones arrested. “There’s absolutely no respect from the RCMP or anyone dealing with Indigenous peoples today,” she told the Nation. Hale has been active in anti-pipeline protests since a 2019 rally in support of the Wet’suwet’en. She showed up with her drum, introduced herself as being a community member, and she’s been doing it ever since, keeping in touch with her family back home regularly.
Her brother, a carpenter, was helping to build the cabin for Wickham, while his wife was a cook. Hale says the RCMP blocked them from getting medication when she began experiencing heart issues, and she eventually had to be taken out of the area by ambulance. Now, Hale is pushing for divestment from fossil fuels at McGill University, speaking out against fossil-fuel expansion and old growth forest destruction across BC. She points to the fact that McGill has $6 millions invested in TC Energy. “[Liquefied natural gas] is going to be a big disaster the way the climate is going today,” she said, pointing to the recent wildfires and floods across BC. “They’re poisoning the air and contaminating the water and soil and imperiling lives already imperiled by the pandemic. “We have to act now to end fossil fuels and subsidies, asking the govern-
ment to put lives and livelihoods before corporate profits,” Hale said. “We’re fighting this from all angles. Where the hereditary chiefs from Wet’suwet’en have spoken, it’s in our cultural ways – we’re not going to give up.” Coastal GasLink signed deals with 20 First Nations band councils along the proposed 670-km route, including the Wet’suwet’en band council, but the hereditary chiefs claim their traditional territory is their responsibility. “It is Cas Yikh territory. That means we’re the stewards,” Chief Woos, a hereditary chief, told CBC News. “We’re the ones that make decisions as to who can go on our territory. And it’s not up to [Coastal GasLink]. It’s not up to a court system to decide that. It’s not up to them.” In response to the arrest of two journalists, Canada’s Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino stated on Twitter that
journalists “must be able to work free from threats, intimidation, or arbitrary state action. The role of the RCMP is to uphold the law, ensure public safety and respect the rights of Canadians, including journalists.” The 5,000-worker project is now half-complete, as the company seeks access to Wet’suwet’en land to drill under the Wedzin Kwa River to build a tunnel for its pipeline. The pipeline seeks to connect natural gas fracking operations in northeastern BC with a newly constructed, $40 billion liquefied natural gas terminal in Kitimat, on the coast, where it could be shipped to buyers abroad. TC Energy has said that the pipeline could eventually be used to transport bitumen, likely from tar-sands operations in Alberta.
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Wishing you all peace and joy during this Holiday season. May the New Year bring you health and success.
DENIS LAMOTHE
MNA FOR UNGAVA
Chibougamau 418 748-6046 Lebel-sur-Quévillon 819 755-2506 denis.lamothe.unga@asnat.qc.ca
ᓂᐱᑯᓵᔨᒫᓈᓂᒡ ᒥᓯᐙ ᐊᐙᓂᒌ ᒑ ᒥᔪᒥᑯᔖᒌᔑᑭᓂᐦᑖᒡ ᐊᓂᑖ, ᐄᔨᔨᐤ ᐊᔅᒌᐦᒡ
2 lakeshore Road, Nemaska, Quebec JOY 3BO 14 the Nation
www.niskamoon.org info@niskamoon.org
We all have questions We all have questions
about the thevaccine vaccine about
Is the theCOVID-19 COVID-19vaccine vaccine Is forchildren childrenthe thesame sameasas for theone onefor foradults? adults? the Thevaccine vaccinegiven giventotochildren children under the age contains The under the age of of 12 12 contains smalleramount amountofofmRNA, mRNA,because because children have a stronger aasmaller children have a stronger immuneresponse responsethan thanadults. adults. Despite the smaller dose, immune Despite the smaller dose, thevaccine vaccineisisjust justasaseffective effective the one adults. the asas the one forfor adults.
Get questions Getanswers answerstotoallallyour your questions about the vaccine at about the vaccine at Québec.ca/YOUTHvaccine Québec.ca/YOUTHvaccine Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect us all. Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect us all.
Dr. Saganash Photo by Martin Roy, Direction des communications, Université Laval
by Ben Powless, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Cree leader awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Law for advancing Indigenous rights
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omeo Saganash was conferred an Honorary Doctorate of Law by Université Laval November 25 in recognition of his service advancing the cause of Indigenous Peoples in an event attended by over 1,000 people. “Romeo Saganash’s career is one of the most exemplary,” said a statement by the university in Quebec City. “All his life he has worked tirelessly for national reconciliation and the promotion of a more just and inclusive world. He has acted on multiple occasions as a negotiator and representative of First Nations in Canada and elsewhere in the world. He strived to provide better living conditions for the Cree community and for First Nations members.” Originally from Waswanipi, Saganash founded the Cree Nation Youth Council and would go on to serve as its president. He earned a law degree in 1989 from Université du Quebéc à Montréal and was the first Cree to graduate from law school in Quebec. He then served as Deputy Grand Chief of the Grand Council of the Crees from 1990 to 1993, pushing for Cree rights in an atmosphere of increasing hydroelectric development. He served as Vice-Chairman of the Board of the Cree Regional Authority, and then Director of Cree-Quebec Relations for over 10 years. During this time, Saganash was one of the main negotiators of the Paix des Braves agreement in 2002, which was hailed as
instrumental in ensuring Cree participation and management of forestry, mining and hydroelectricity. He was also a key negotiator in drafting the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) in 2007. In 2011, he was elected to Parliament for Abitibi–Baie-James–Nunavik–Eeyou as a member of the New Democratic Party, a position he held until 2019. There, he was instrumental in advancing legislation that would eventually lead to Canada adopting the UNDRIP. In response to the award, Grand Chief Mandy Gull Masty stated, “On behalf of the Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) / Cree Nation Government, I would like to congratulate Romeo on receiving this highest distinction as we stand in ovation for his contributions to the advancement of the Cree Nation and the rights of Indigenous Peoples. “It brings us great pride to see one of our own receive such a prestigious award. We are inspired by his courage and determination in promoting and protecting the rights of our people, and ultimately all Indigenous Peoples across Canada and the world.” Prior to the award, Saganash was part of a conference organized by the Faculty of Law at Université Laval, talking about the challenges of his career and the future of Indigenous Peoples. “We have not finished this march towards justice. We must lead this march together,” he said to applause.
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“We are inspired by his courage and determination in promoting and protecting the rights of our people” - Grand Chief Mandy Gull Masty
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IMPORTANT
FROM THE ASSOCIATION OF EMPLOYEE The AENQ-CSQ represents the teaching and support staff of the Cree and Kativik school boards. For more than two years, we have been negotiating with these school boards to renew the collective agreements of our members. Today, the AENQ-CSQ wishes to inform the parents of students attending these school boards, as well as the communities, of the status of these negotiations because they concern us all. Our priority is the well-being and development of the students in Northern Quebec. To contribute to this on a daily basis, we must provide healthy working and living environments for education workers in our communities. This is all the more important given the shortage of personnel that affects the working and learning conditions in our schools. It is absolutely crucial that our schools take the necessary steps to attract a new generation of workers and retain the existing staff.
T MESSAGE
ES OF NORTHERN QUEBEC (AENQ-CSQ) In addition, because of the lack of resources, students with special needs are left behind, and this is unacceptable. And yet, the school environment is a privileged setting to assist our youth in the challenges they meet. If we want to improve the academic success rate, better support for students is essential. As education authorities in our territory, the Cree and Kativik school boards should share our concerns about the quality of services and the welfare of students and staff. We invite them to listen and show greater openness at the bargaining table. As a result, we can all together contribute to improving the education system in Northern Quebec. This is the mission that the AENQ-CSQ has been pursuing for 50 years. That being said, we take this opportunity to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
ᒋᔮᒫᔨᐦᑎᒧᐎᓐ, ᓵᒋᐦᐄᑐᐎᓐ, ᒥᔪᐱᒫᑎᓰᐎᓐ ᑭᔮ ᐱᑳᔅᒋᐦᐅᐎᓐ ᐆ ᒑ ᐅᔅᒋᐱᐳᐦᒡ 2022᙮ Chief Allan Jolly, Council and Staff of MoCreebec Eeyoud
Wishing you all happy holidays and a prosperous New Year! From all of us at CINI-FM 95.3 & 102.1 FM Mistissini CINI-FM 95.3 FM & 102.1 FM
Mistissini Lake, QC T 418-923-3333 F 418-923-2413 WWW.CINIFM.CA 20 the Nation
CREE YOUTH Development Funds 4 MAIN FUNDING AREAS YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
CAPACITY BUILDING
Supporting programming that meets
Helping our youth to mobilize their skills
the youth strategic priorities both as
and knowledge to effectively contribute
singular and collective goals at
as members of their community, and
community and regional levels.
throughout Eeyou Istchee.
GOVERNANCE AND ADMINISTRATION Working to build internal tools and
CULTURE, LANGUAGE AND ENVIRONMENT
mechanisms that enhance the
Creating partnerships
administrative capacity of the CNYC and
that increases programs and services that
the presence of Youth leadership across
promote culture, language and environmental
Eeyou Istchee
awareness in our youth.
WHO CAN APPLY • Not-for-profit organizations
• Educational Institutions
• Local Band & Youth Councils
• Private Sector Organizations
• Research Organizations
• Youth Organizations
TO APPLY CONTACT NELLIE W. GRAY, Program Technician Department of Social and Cultural Development EMAIL: nwapachee@cngov.ca P : 418-923-2330
Department of Social & Cultural Development
Opportunities Grand Economic Circle aims to build Quebec First Nations economies by Patrick Quinn Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Photo by Stéphane Audet
I
ndigenous leaders were cautiously optimistic that the Grand Economic Circle of Indigenous Peoples and Quebec was the starting point of a movement. The event November 25 and 26 brought about 250 Indigenous leaders, provincial elected officials and businesspeople together to discuss the full participation of Indigenous Peoples in Quebec’s economy. Going into the conference, AFNQL Chief Ghislain Picard emphasized that economic development is closely connected with land issues. “I have to reiterate our determination to have our rights and our ancestral territories, and our government autono-
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my respected,” stated Picard. “If Quebec enjoys an economic status that may be the envy of other governments, it is largely due to the exploitation of resources on our lands. Is it not high time that First Nations enjoy the same opportunities?” Cree Grand Chief Mandy Gull-Masty discussed the balancing act of creating employment while ensuring community members can still hunt and trap on their traditional territory. She said that industries that can ensure “social acceptability” provide opportunities to steer government towards developing new policies and mechanisms for mutual benefit.
for Gull-Masty joined AFN National Chief RoseAnne Archibald and Mohawk Council of Kahnawá:ke Grand Chief Kahsennenhawe Sky-Deer in a panel focused on economic reconciliation and the role of women in entrepreneurship. Sky-Deer expressed optimism that there seemed more willingness for partnerships than ever before. While Sky-Deer said development had long surrounded her community without their participation, she highlighted the immense tourism potential of 120,000 cars passing through their territory daily. However, she received death threats on social media following news of Quebec’s
growth $3.3 million investment in a hotel project in Kahnawake, granted to a local citizen on private land through Quebec’s Aboriginal Initiatives Fund (AIF). “There’s a lot of healing that has to be done in our community,” Sky-Deer told Mohawk media. “It’s a new era. We’re asserting ourselves as the rightful land holders. If projects are going to happen on our territory, we need to be part of it.” Indigenous Tourism Quebec (ITQ) celebrated its 30th anniversary through a recognition gala at the event, honouring the industry’s key Indigenous enterprises and strategic partners for their dynamic and innovative spirit. Robin McGinley,
executive director of the Cree Outfitting and Tourism Association, appreciated the gesture. “The gala was well-timed and an inspiration altogether,” McGinley told the Nation. “It was a nice boost to people’s morale given everything we’re going through.” Among the event’s initiatives was the unveiling of a trademark bear logo that Quebec’s Indigenous businesses can use to demonstrate their product’s authenticity. Various funding announcements were made over the two days, including two strategic partnership initiatives from
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Cree Nation of
Mistissini
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Canada said to contribute to the economic self-sufficiency of Indigenous communities in Quebec. The True North Treasure Initiative and the Forest Full Value Initiative will each receive $4.5 million. Quebec announced $10 million for a new First Nations executive education program launched by HEC Montréal, the graduate business school of the Université de Montréal. It seeks to foster the emergence of a new generation of Indigenous leaders with training adapted to community needs. Hydro-Québec issued a declaration recognizing the “sometimes painful” history the company shares with Indigenous communities, while promising to “enhance the Indigenous potential in all spheres of the economic life of Hydro-Québec.” The company’s new president, Sophie Brochu, recently accepted an invitation from GullMasty to better understand the impact of development in Eeyou Istchee. Many expressed disappointment at Quebec Premier François Legault’s brief appearance on the second day after he addressed journalists but not the many chiefs present. While Legault stated he was open to profit sharing and collaborating on all interesting projects, some chiefs called his “Nation to Nation” approach a “divide and conquer” tactic. The conference concluded with a joint declaration endorsed by 130 prominent Quebec businesses for a “Grand Circle of Commitment”, a statement including 13 commitments to support Indigenous self-determination, actively contribute to community growth and ensure equitable employment representation. While the declaration included commitments to hold regional Grand Circles and reunite at the provincial level within five years, some leaders were skeptical. Innu Council of Ekuanitshit Chief JeanCharles Piétacho noted the substantial work remaining to overcome the many years that Indigenous people were systemically marginalized. “We’re not breaking through, especially in terms of funding,” said Piétacho. “At some point we’re going to have to say let’s get on with it – we’ll see the results in five years. We have so many glaring needs in our communities.”
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Department of Justice and Correctional Services ᐧᐃᔮᔅᑯᓂᒑᐧᐃᓐ ᑭᔮ ᑯᔨᔅᑯᓂᐧᐋᐧᐃᓐ ᐋᐱᑎᓰᐧᐃᓐ ᐋ ᐅᐦᒋ ᓈᓈᑭᒋᐦᑖᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ
ᐃᔨᔨᐤ CAVAC ᐋ ᐱᒥᐱᔨᐦᑖᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ (ᑳ ᐧᐃᓂᐦᑑᑎᐧᐋᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐊᐧᐋᓂᒌ ᐋ ᐅᐦᒋ ᐧᐄᒋᐦᐋᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ) ᑳ ᐧᐃᓂᐦᑑᑎᐧᐋᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐊᐧᐋᓂᒌ ᐋ ᐅᐦᒋ ᐧᐄᒋᐦᐋᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᒌ ᐅᔑᐦᑖᑭᓂᐧᐃᐤ ᒑᒌ ᐧᐄᒋᐦᐋᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐊᓂᒌ ᐊᐧᐋᓂᒌ ᐋᒌ ᐧᐃᓂᑑᐧᑖᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐅᔮᐧᐋᐦᒡ, ᐅᒥᑐᓈᔨᒋᑭᓂᐧᐋᐦᒡ ᑭᔮ ᐅᐱᒫᑎᓯᐧᐃᓂᐧᐋᐦᒡ ᐊᓂᔨᐤ ᐅᐦᒋ ᐋᒌ ᐲᑯᓂᑭᓂᐧᐃᔨᒡ ᐧᐃᔨᔑᐧᐋᐧᐃᓂᔨᐤ ᑭᔮ ᒫᒃ ᐋ ᐊᔨᒦᔥᑎᐧᒫᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐋ ᐧᐄᒋᐦᐋᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᒑᒌ ᐱᑯᐦᑖᒡ ᒑᐧᑳᔨᐤ ᐅᐦᒋ ᐋᒌ ᐋᐦᑯᐦᐋᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ᙮ ᑳ ᐧᐃᓂᑑᑖᑯᔨᓈ ᓈᔥᑦ ᐋᒌ ᐧᐋᐱᐦᑎᒥᓐ ᐋ ᐲᑯᓂᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐧᐃᔨᔑᐧᐋᐧᐃᓐ, ᓃᔑᓐᐦ ᐃᔨᔨᐤ CAVAC ᐋ ᐅᐦᒋ ᐋᐱᑎᓰᔥᑎᐧᐋᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐃᔨᔨᐧᐃᒡ ᐊᓂᑖ ᐃᔨᔨᐤ ᐊᔅᒌᐦᒡ᙮ ᓂᓈᐦᑭᐤ ᐃᔑ ᐧᐄᒋᐦᐋᐧᐃᒡ ᐊᐧᐋᔨᐤᐦ ᐊᓂᒌ CAVAC ᐋᐱᑎᓰᓯᐧᐃ, ᒋᒡ: ᐋᐦᐧᑳᒡ ᐋᒌ ᐃᔅᐱᔨᑦ ᐊᐧᐋᓐ ᐊᓂᑖ ᐹᒋ ᑭᔮ ᒥᑐᓈᔨᐦᒋᑭᓐ ᐧᐄᒋᐦᐄᑯᓯᐧᐃᓐ ᐋ ᓂᑎᐧᐃᒋᔅᒑᔨᒫᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐋ ᐃᔑ ᓂᑎᐧᐋᔑᐦᑎᐦᒡ ᑳ ᐧᐃᓂᑑᐧᑖᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐋ ᒋᔅᒑᔨᐦᑎᒥᐦᐄᐧᐋᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐋ ᐃᔑ ᐃᔮᒡ ᑭᔅᒋᐦᐆᐧᐃᓐᐦ ᑳ ᐧᐃᓇᑑᐧᑖᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᑭᔮ ᑖᓐ ᒑᒌ ᐃᔑ ᐧᐋᐧᐄᒋᐦᐋᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐋᐧᐃᒄ ᑭᔮ ᐅᔥᑭᒡ ᐋ ᐊᑎ ᐱᒥᐱᔨᒡ ᐋ ᑎᐹᔅᑯᓂᒑᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᓂᓈᐦᑭᐤ ᐧᐄᒋᐦᐄᐧᐋᐧᐃᓐ ᒑᒌ ᐧᐄᒋᐦᐋᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᑳ ᐧᐃᓂᑑᐧᑖᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᒑᒌ ᐃᐦᑑᑎᐦᒃ ᐋ ᐃᔑ ᓂᑎᐧᐋᔨᐦᑖᑭᓂᐧᐃᔨᒡ ᒥᓯᓂᐄᑭᓐᐦ ᐋ ᐧᐄᐦᑎᒧᐧᐋᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᑳ ᐧᐃᓂᑑᐧᑖᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᑖᓂᑖ ᒑᒌ ᐧᐄᒋᐦᐋᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐱᑯᓂᒑ ᑯᔨᔅᒃ ᒑᒌ ᐧᐄᒋᐦᐋᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᑳ ᐧᐃᓂᑑᐧᑖᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐊᓂᑖ ᐧᐃᔮᑯᓂᒑᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ ᓂᑐᐦᑯᔨᓐ ᐋᐱᑎᓰᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ ᐱᒫᑎᓰᐤᐧᐄᒋᐦᐄᑯᓯᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᐋ ᐃᐦᑎᑯᓂᔨᒡ ᒑᐧᑳᔨᐤ ᒑ ᐧᐄᒋᐦᐄᑯᑦ ᐊᓂᑖ ᐃᐦᑖᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ ᒫᐧᑳᒡ ᐋ ᐃᔑ ᓂᒋᔥᑭᐦᒃ ᒑᐧᑳᔨᐤ ᐧᐋᔥᑖᐱᔨᐦᐄᑯᑦ ᐋ ᐧᐄᒑᐧᐋᑭᓂᐧᐃᑦ ᑳ ᐧᐃᓂᑑᐧᑖᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᒫᐧᑳᒡ ᐋ ᓂᒋᔥᑭᐦᒡ ᓂᑐᐦᑯᔨᓐ ᐋᐱᑎᓰᐧᐃᓂᔨᐤ ᑭᔮ ᐋ ᐃᐦᑎᑯᓂᔨᒡ ᒑᐧᑳᔨᐤ ᒑ ᐧᐄᒋᐦᐄᑯᑦ ᐊᓂᑖ ᐃᐦᑖᐧᐃᓂᐦᒡ ᑭᔮ ᒑ ᔒᑐᔥᑯᐧᐋᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᒫᐧᑳᒡ ᐋ ᐱᒥᐱᔨᔨᒡ ᐋ ᑎᐹᔅᑯᓂᒑᓂᐧᐃᔨᒡ ᐃᔥᑯᑎᒃ ᐋ ᒋᐦᒋᐱᔨᔨᒡ ᓂᒧᔨ ᑎᐱᐦᐄᒑᓂᐧᐃᐤ ᑭᔮ ᒥᓯᐧᐋ ᒑᐧᑳᓐ ᒋᑭ ᑯᔨᔅᒃ ᑭᓂᐧᐋᔨᐦᑖᑭᓂᐧᐃᐤ ᑖᓐ ᒑ ᐃᔑ ᐧᐄᒋᐦᐄᑯᔨᓐ᙮
CREE CAVAC SERVICES
(Crime Victims Assistance Centre) CAVAC or crime victims assistance centre, have been created to help victims overcome the physical, psychological and social consequences of a crime, and to advocate on their behalf to help them obtain compensation for the harm suffered. If you are a victim or witness to a crime, then there are three Cree CAVAC offices that have been established to serve you in the Cree Nation. CAVAC officers provide a wide range of assistance services, including: POST-TRAUMA AND PSYCHOLOGICAL INTERVENTION, to assess the needs of victims of crime INFORMATION ON THE RIGHTS CRIME VICTIMS HAVE AND THE REMEDIES AVAILABLE TO THEM, which encompasses the main stages of judicial process TECHNICAL SERVICES, to assist crime victims in filling out required forms REFERRING VICTIMS TO SPECIALIZED SERVICES, such as appropriate legal, medical, social and community resources capable of assisting victims as they attempt to deal with problems they face ACCOMPANYING CRIME VICTIMS, through their dealings with medical and community resources, and providing sustained support throughout je judicial process as the case proceeds Our front-line services are free of charge and strictly confidential with you. Community
Toll Free Number
Whapmagoostui, Wemindji / ᐧᐋᐱᒫᑯᔥᑐᐃ, ᐧᐄᒥᓂᒌ Chisasibi / ᒋᓵᓰᐲ Waskaganish, Eastmain, Nemaska / ᐧᐋᔅᑳᐦᐃᑭᓂᔥ,
855-603-6136 855-603-0009 855-603-6168
Mistissini / ᒥᔅᑎᓯᓃ Ouje-Bougoumou, Waswanipi / ᐅᒋᐳᑭᒨ, ᐧᐋᐧᓵᓂᐲ
855-603-6137 855-603-0044
ᐄᐦᑖᐧᐃᓐᐦ
If you need more information or have additional questions, contact our office in Val-d”Or. By phone: 819-874-2600 By email: justicevaldor@cngov.ca
ᓇᒧᔨ ᑎᐸᐦᐄᑲᓂᐧᐃᐤ
ᐄᓯᒫᓐ, ᓂᒫᔅᑳᐤ
cavacinfo@creejustice.ca
www.creejustice.ca
Study at Canadore College Canadore offers culture-based programs with a focus on history and tradition Health Care Administration – Indigenous Indigenous Pre-Health Sciences Indigenous Preparatory Studies Indigenous Wellness and Addictions Prevention
15%
Indigenous students make up of Candore’s Student Population.
Our students like it here! We have one of the HIGHEST Indigenous student retention rates in Canada.
canadorecollege.ca/FPC
North Bay, Ontario
The Eeyou Istchee James Bay Regional Government represents a historical initiative in the governance of the Eeyou Istchee James Bay territory located north of the 49th parallel by fostering harmonious relationships between Jamesians and Crees. This innovative approach enhances future opportunities for both communities to contribute in a significant manner to the prosperity of the territory by assuming municipal and land use planning responsibilities within the largest territory in Quebec. Within this context, cont that the EIJBRG is seeking a dynamic, highly motivated and experienced Senior Manager to fill the position of Director General in the Eeyou Istchee James Bay territory. • Reporting to the EIJBRG Council, executive management implements administrative and financial decisions by Council. The incumbent ensures coherent implementation of orientations by the various services. The Director General acts as a liaison between the Council and the municipal administrative services while ensuring a strategic advisory role. CORE • Responsibilities also include makings recommendations to authorities regarding orientations related to administrative, development and communication priorities. The incumbent also FUNCTIONS provides strategic information to elected officials as to define actions and to make informed decisions in compliance with municipal legislation. • The Director General also ensures an optimal performance of the EIJBRG human, material and financial resources. If required, the incumbent will also assume responsibilities as Legal Clerk and Assistant Treasurer.
Forward resumé by email no later than January 7, 2022 to: recrutement@equipelebleu.com For a detailed description of the position, please visit: greibj.ca/images/Director_General.pdf
ᒋᐱᑯᓵᔨᒥᑯᐙᐅᒡ ᒑ ᒥᔪᒥᑯᔖᒌᔑᑭᓂᐦᑖᔮᒄ᙮ᑭᒫ ᒥᔻᔨᐦᑎᒫᒄ ᑭᔮ ᐱᑳᔅᒋᐦᐅᔮᒄ ᐆ ᒑ ᐅᔅᒋᐱᐳᐦᒡ!
The Cree Trappers Association 819-977-2165 | info@ctaoffice.ca | creetrappers.ca
28 the Nation December 17, 2021 www.nationnews.ca
ᒥᔪ ᒥᑯᔖᒌᔑᑭᓂᐦᑖᐦᒄ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒥᔪ ᐅᔅᒋᐱᐳᓂᐦᑖᔮᐦᒄ ᒥᔪ ᒥᑯᔖᒌᔑᑭᓂᐦᑖᐦᒄ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒥᔪ ᐅᔅᒋᐱᐳᓂᐦᑖᔮᐦᒄ
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Branch Holiday Hours Friday, December 24th (Christmas Eve) 10:00am-3:00pm Monday, December 27th (in lieu of Christmas Day) Closed th Tuesday, December 28 (in lieu of Boxing Day) Closed th Wednesday, December 29 Regular Hours th Thursday, December 30 Regular Hours st Friday, December 31 (New Year’s Eve) 10:00am-3:00pm Monday, January 3rd (in lieu of New Year’s Day) Closed th Tuesday, January 4 (bank holiday) Closed th Wednesday, January 5 Regular Hours
Happy Holidays ᒑ ᒥᔪ ᐊᔨᐧᐋᔑᔮᒄᐦ/ᒋᐧᐋᒋᔮᒥᑎᓈᓐ ᐆ ᒑ ᒧᒋᒑᔨᐦᑖᑯᐦᒡ
Chisasibi 1.888.825.3458
30 the Nation December 17, 2021 www.nationnews.ca
Whapmagoostui 1.888.863.5942
Business
A skyline presence Creeco unveils plans for ambitious Odea tower in Montreal designed by Douglas Cardinal by Patrick Quinn,
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
T
he Cree Nation has unveiled plans for a $100 million high-rise tower that will stand at one of the main entrances to downtown Montreal. Featuring a giant canoe shape at its most prominent corner, the 26-floor Odea Montreal building will accommodate a combination of condos, rentals and commercial space.
“I am proud to see my Nation’s contribution to the Montreal skyline with an innovative and forward-thinking project that will not only showcase the history of the Cree Nation, but more importantly will also create space for Indigenous organizations and entities,” stated Grand Chief Mandy Gull-Masty. “The Odea Montreal project is the first of its kind and will be an economic driving force with endless opportunities for additional investment.” At least 40 different companies had approached Creeco about a site the CNG has owned in Old Montreal since 1995 before a partnership was formed with Cogir Real Estate. World-renowned Anishinaabe architect Douglas Cardinal created the project’s bold design in collaboration with local architectural firm Lemay. Famous in the Cree Nation for designing the village of Ouje-Bougoumou and the Aanischaaukamikq Cree Cultural Institute, Cardinal was brought on board after Mayor Valérie Plante pushed the team to build something unique. “The mayor of Montreal considered the first concept of our project ‘very generic’, in her words,” explained Derrick Neeposh, president of Creeco, the parent company of Eeyou Eenou Realty Properties. “Douglas’ name came up very early. We really wanted to put a stamp on it to say this is a Cree project.” When Cardinal visited the site, he envisioned a canoe. A brainstorming session that included Elders Robbie
Matthew and Diane Reid confirmed it was the perfect symbol, evoking the epic Odeyak journey that brought Cree and Inuit activists all the way from Whapmagoostui to New York City in 1990 to successfully campaign against the proposed damming of the Great Whale River. “The canoe is a symbol of communication and commerce, trade and amazing technology that Indigenous people created out of their natural environment,” Cardinal told the Nation. “The Odeyak developed good relationships as the people shared who they were in a very powerful way.” The Odeyak’s voyage resulted in New York State pulling out of a deal to purchase power from the project. Now the Odea signals the empowered Cree Nation’s resolve to generate wealth in the South for the benefit of the North, with a building ironically located on the corner of Ottawa Street and Robert Bourassa Boulevard – named after the premier who had so ardently promoted the Great Whale project. “We’re just proud of the fact we have an iconic building on Robert Bourassa Boulevard as a Cree project,” Neeposh emphasized. “We want to integrate our culture into it, bringing in different Cree organizations, even hosting Cree events. Throughout the building, we’re thinking of subtle identifying components, the title in Cree syllabics, for example.” While the limited office space and costly real estate may make renting to
Cree entities unfeasible, Neeposh said the building’s birch-influenced interior design affirms the tree’s importance in Cree toolmaking, including the creation of canoes. Odea is targeting a LEED silver certification to promote environmental sustainability in material usage and energy consumption. The building will feature an artist’s studio, two rooftop pools, a sky lounge and green spaces for everyone to enjoy. As an architect, establishing strong relationships with diverse stakeholders is essential for Cardinal. His process always begins with a vision session that gives shape to client needs, designing complex organic forms with computer modeling. “We have to use our technology to create balance with our beautiful blue planet,” explained Cardinal. “I made a commitment to my Elders to be an architect of the people, to be an architect more in harmony with our mother, the Earth.” Cardinal feels a responsibility to integrate his culture’s wisdom into architecture. Working again with the Crees on this project, he could hear the teachings of his Elders. “It’s exciting working for them because they will have a strong vision for what they need and want for their people,” Cardinal said. “It has always been a highlight of my career to serve the James Bay Cree. It will be fun to walk in the building – I want it to feel the spirit of the Elders.”
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32 the Nation December 17, 2021 www.nationnews.ca
Rez Notes
Xmas cheer by Sonny Orr
R
ejoicing, I emerge from the latest storm of the season, a little colder and shakier thanks to the minus 20-degree temperatures. These early days of winter tend to lash out and grab your inner soul, chilling it to the core. That’s when the shivering sets in, and your body responds with chattering teeth and a sniffling nose. Yes, it’s flu season, a real reason to declare a natural sickness, one that’s expected but now rare, due to the constant disinfecting of the world. Finally, a simple flu seems to be common for those who are naturally healthy and whose immune systems kicks in with a sneeze. Despite the constant wiping of the nostrils, the ingestion of cold remedies is welcomed. It offers a change in medicinal applications, other than disinfecting everything repeatedly and getting chapped hands and dry skin. Perhaps a small hiccup from overeating at a recently reopened restaurant has induced a weight-gaining syndrome commonly related to storing of hefty fats to endure a long winter of hibernation, and Santa Classy at the same time. This dietary supplement season knows no boundaries as all kinds of cholesterol, fats, sugars and other sumptuous foods are consumed. For the kids, it’s a heavenly reality where anything goes, including screaming and throwing tantrums about your sibling’s better gift. Meanwhile for the secret agents of Santa – known as parents and guardians of the greatest secret in the world – their
Not letting Scrooge and the Grinch take over helps with the blood pressure happy smiles quickly change to snores and quiet rumblings of deep slumber, normal for parents at this stage of their lives. For me, it’s the smell of roasting turkeys and baking pies, and the taste of eggnog surprises, that keeps this secret agent alive during the holidays. Some call this time of the year blessed and family oriented and I agree. Not letting Scrooge and the Grinch take over helps with the blood pressure and keeping enough eggnog around to soothe those Christmas woes helps this elf in disguise. But thanking all those people who live by the same motto, keeping up with the neighbours does add a little zing to the holiday cheer as power meters compete for the highest energy consumption within a two-week period and peak period winner goes to the Griswalds of the world. Let the global power magnates cheer and rejoice for the greatest energy abusers’ awards. I guess the only real abuse I can contend with is my stomach and all those foods and warm drinks smothering my delicate tummy lining. Oh yes, I nearly forgot the reason behind this annual season of good tidings – the kids. For without them, who
would believe in Santa Claus. Nope, not us wise older folks. We’ve known this secret since we were six years old when Santa fell on the floor and swore in pain. But keeping up pretences is all in keeping up the suspense of this great secret until you outgrow it along with your third tooth. Remember how the tooth-fairy legend came crashing down when you discover your parents have kept your tooth for 50 years and now use it as a conversation starter with other Elders. Again, I support a break from all the commercial madness and to lean towards family events. Just a break from trudging along as a big elf nearing retirement or just wishing to retire with Santa for 364 days a year. Yeah, that imaginary guy has all the breaks, the glory and the attention and serves a purpose for the elves, and that is the great secret. Christmas comes once a year and Santa is the culprit. Leave it like that because if kids discover it’s actually the parents and guardians behind the secret, then Christmas would be in demand all year round and we can’t have that can we. Ho Ho Ho to all and have some more of that tasty eggnog.
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
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www.underthenorthernsky.com
UTNS
Under the Northern Sky
Christmas past
by Xavier Kataquapit
C
hristmas was always a season of chaos and confusion for me as a child. It was a strange mix of excitement and joy along with feelings of anxiety and worry. On one hand, our parents did everything they could to follow the strange modern commercial Christmas that we saw happening everywhere else in the country and on TV. On the other hand, we had to take part in the religious history of the birth of a saviour named Jesus and the ceremonies of ancient Middle Eastern and European traditions. My mom Susan was born and raised in the northern remote wilderness and my dad Marius had lived his whole life in our home community of Attawapiskat. Both grew up in a traditional life of hunting, trapping, fishing and living off the land like our ancestors had for thousands of years. Their lives revolved around the land and the movements of the animals throughout the year. The ideas of Christmas must have been very foreign to them, but they followed in its tradition because it was part of the Christian faith. In more modern times, it was confusing for all of us to understand the commercial images of Santa Claus, snowmen, elves, Christmas trees, bright colourful decorations and lights everywhere. We just fell in line with the rest of the country, and we were mesmerized by the chaotic excitement of the year without understanding what it was all about.
The best part of the celebrations for me was mom’s Christmas feast. It was a mix of modern foods with turkey, ham, salads and sugary desserts combined with traditional foods like roasted wild goose and stews of moose meat or caribou mixed with dumplings. As children we watched mom making magic in the kitchen with excitement and later as teenagers, we joined in and helped her in preparing food. One of her specialties was Christmas fruitcake. In Cree, this cake is called Kas-kah-pah-chee-kan. She made hers in a large round donut pan that provided enough cake for all of us. When we were much younger, mom only made one cake at Christmas. It wasn’t until we were older and could help in the kitchen that she started mass producing six, seven or eight cakes a year to share with family and friends. As a child, I was never fond of these cakes because I preferred the store-bought chocolates and candies. It wasn’t until later in the life that I started to appreciate this seasonal cake and now I enjoy it because it reminds me of those special times with my family and my mom. The most memorable moments from my family’s Christmas get-togethers were those times when there was no alcohol or drugs in the community. These were special times when we as children could feel safe, secure and happy. When adults in town were partying all that changed. Of course, we all realize now that the prevalent use of alcohol and drugs had
to do with a history of colonization, residential schools and oppression. Many of us drank or used drugs to forget and to numb the pain. No matter what the root cause, when we as adults turn to using alcohol or drugs, and especially at times of the year that are supposed to be happy, our young ones are terrorized. Most adults don’t realize the terror and trauma they cause to younger people when the holiday drinking takes over everything. The culture and traditions of our ancestors did not include these substances and life then was quite different as people were connected in a very direct way to Mother Earth. Our healing journey from the effects of colonization is a long one. It is my hope that you will give yourself, your family and your friends the gift of sobriety this Christmas and start the New Year with a life of healing and recovery. Don’t forget your children are watching your every move and they learn from you. If they accept that alcohol or drugs should be part of their lives, then you are responsible for letting that happen. If you are having problems with addictions, pick up the phone and reach out for help. Many of us have ghosts of Christmas past in memories that have to do with drinking or drugs and tragic circumstances. If we make positive changes for ourselves and those we love in Christmas present, then we can look forward to better times in Christmases yet to come.
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 December 17, 2021 www.nationnews.ca
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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.
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As the Chief Administration Officer and most senior public servant of the Cree Nation, the Executive Director is responsible for the effective and efficient management of the Cree Nation Government. Experience • A deep appreciation of the concerns and customs of the Cree people. • Extensive experience in public affairs to be creative in developing and presenting Cree positions and interests and in forming strategies for gaining political objectives. • Experience in negotiating and working with and/or coordinating negotiating research teams. • Experience in a policy-development role. Language: • Fluency in English, French and verbal Cree. Knowledge and key competencies: • Strong leadership qualities, ability to manage and inspire different personalities as well as manage staff in remote locations. • An open, approachable communicator with superior interpersonal skills and the ability to influence through personal credibility, as well as through the authority of the position.
Visit our website for the full job description: www.cngov.ca/services/careers For inquiries, please contact: hr@cngov.ca