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CONTENTS 10

EDITORIAL Quebec, convoys and vaccine rules

A lifetime of learning

NEWS More restrictions lifted

Yabba Dabba Doo?

BRIEFS FEATURES

Chief Clarence Louie’s new book shares valuable insights

Community

Lessons on leadership

First Lady

How do you say ‘puck’?

The Paix des Braves at 20

REZ NOTES 25

Spread the love

Language revitalization

T&B 26

A moral compass Puzzles will return next issue

Politics

A tribute to Sophie Bosum

ᐅᕙᓂ ᐱᒋᐊᕐᐳᖅ ᓄᓇᕕᒃ ᐅᕙᓂ ᐱᒋᐊᕐᐳᖅ ᓄᓇᕕᒃ Nunavik Starts Here

Leaders reflect on the Paix des Braves

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Photo provided by Clarence Louie

Editorial

Quebec, convoys and vaccine rules by Will Nicholls

t’s hard for the average Canadian to know exactly what the hell is going on these days. Perhaps Quebec Liberal leader Dominique Anglade summed it up best by saying, “Curfew, no curfew, unvaccinated tax, no vaccinated tax, vaccine passport which was deployed, maintained, now lifted. The contradictory messages of François Legault have been numerous and now must stop.” Legault hasn’t been the only politician to act in that manner. Many of the politically inclined have been skating back and forth on the shifting ice of the pandemic. Many though are saying this is just a response to the convoys and not a real and measured response to the pandemic itself. Hell, even scientists are flip-flopping, with some saying it’s too early and not based in scientific facts. Quebec Health Minister Christian Dubé claimed that “There is not link to the political environment.” He believes that it’s the “right time to do it, because it’s safe for public health.” That’s why vaccine passports are no longer needed for provincial dope and booze stores and why bars and gyms will be fully open by March 14. Even though the passports will be phased out, it is recommended that we keep them with us in case there is a new wave in the future. Vaccine passports are still necessary for air and rail travel, whether domestic or international. Masks will still be required in public spaces. Protestors don’t agree with this requirement. So, the convoys and supporters have won a few concessions, but many are tired of the protest itself and the political inaction towards it. An Angus Reid poll

The politically inclined have been skating back and forth on the shifting ice of the pandemic

found that 65% of respondents felt Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made the situation worse even though 69% opposed the protesters because of their approach and behaviour. A full 64% said they did not agree with ending all pandemic restrictions. Even so 49% said while they may not agree with everything the protesters want “their frustration is legitimate and worthy of our sympathy.” Which means 100% of us have contradictory opinions after two years of pandemic life. Provinces have said that they could take away truckers’ driving licences and impose heavy fines including the possibility of jail time. The federal government invoked the Emergencies Act on February 14. Under this Act bringing children to the anti-government blockades, participating in the protest directly, or bringing aid like food and fuel to the protesters

could result in a fine of up to $5,000 or five years in prison. The government can compel tow-truck companies to remove trucks from blockades and the RCMP are allowed to enforce provincial laws and by-laws in Ottawa. However, a Maru Public Opinion Poll found that 64% of Canadians supported using the Canadian military in a support role to end the protest. Given the weapons seized at another blockade out west this may be a needed measure to ensure the safety of Canadians, including the peaceful protesters. So, exactly what is happening and will be happening in the near and distant future is anybody’s guess. But politicians are realizing just how far they can go in restricting the rights of Canadians. And the average person is both against and in favour of all or some or none of the above.

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 February 25, 2022 www.nationnews.ca

CMCA AUDITED

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

by Ben Powless, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

More restrictions lifted Covid case counts decline as Legault concedes need to live with virus

ree health authorities are sounding optimistic about the pandemic. Cree Board of Health and Social Services Vice-Chair Christine Petawabano said in a radio address that, “Things continue to improve in Eeyou Istchee. The number of active cases is declining, which means communities can consider lowering more restrictions.” With just under 200 active cases in mid-February, the total number of those infected in Eeyou Istchee since the inception of the outbreak was approaching 2,000, with 1,765 having recovered. A total of 26 people had been hospitalized, with six still in the hospital. Mistissini had the highest number of active cases, at 82, followed by Chisasibi, with 52. They were followed by Waskaganish at 24 and Ouje-Bougoumou at 23. The rest had under 10 cases, with only Nemaska having no known active cases. With the lowered infection rate, Eeyou Istchee was no longer being considered an area of risk, though specific measures may remain in individual communities. Mistissini remained in Phase 1 of deconfinement, prohibiting all indoor and outdoor gatherings and intercommunity travel except for essential reasons. Chisasibi and Waskaganish were in Phase 2, allowing indoor and outdoor gatherings of a maximum of two households, while intercommunity travel is not recommended. The remaining communities were in an “adapted version” of Phase 3, allowing a maximum of three households for indoor and outdoor gatherings, with intercommunity travel at the discretion of local Public Safety officials. For those who take rapid tests at home and test positive, Cree Public Health is asking that they inform their local Public Safety Officer and isolate for 10 days. Isolation includes those who are close contacts of a positive case, even if they test negative. People who test positive

Legault highlighted a shift in longterm strategy by saying it is time to live with the virus

are still asked to trace their contacts, with information available on creehealth.org. All regions of Quebec outside of Region 10 (Nord-du-Québec) were still considered areas of risk, requiring mandatory self-isolation upon return, while other local requirements may be in place. For those who don’t follow the mandatory self-isolation protocols, Public Health announced that fines of up to $1,000 for the first offence, and up to $2,000 and $5,000 for further offences, may be incurred. While those under medical self-isolation can’t have their names recorded on public registries, those who violate the protocol can be fined between $1,000 and $6,000 under the Public Health Act. Hybrid learning between online and in-person instruction began February 1 in Whapmagoostui, Wemindji, Eastmain, Nemaska, Waswanipi and OujeBougoumou. Chisasibi began hybrid learning February 8 for high schools and on February 14 in elementary schools. Schools in Waskaganish were online only until February 14. Mistissini’s start date for hybrid education was yet to be determined. Across Quebec, hospitalizations declined to 2,095 by February 14, down from a high of 3,140 on January 18. The positive news allowed the Quebec gov-

ernment to move into the next phase of its reopening plan, allowing gyms and spas to open at half capacity, and for sports and recreation activities to resume. Premier François Legault said Quebec may soon relax vaccine requirements, following Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s announcement that province would lift its vaccine requirements by March. Legault also highlighted a shift in longterm strategy, noting that people are fed up with restrictions, by saying it is time to live with the virus. This accompanied a decree allowing home gatherings without restriction and for restaurants to have a maximum of 10 people per table. As of February 21, all businesses have opened at maximum capacity, and places of worship are allowed to either have half capacity or a maximum of 500 people. Beginning February 28, working from home will no longer be mandatory where possible. Bars will also be allowed to open to half capacity. Starting March 14, restaurants, bars, dancing and karaoke venues will also be allowed to open to full capacity, alongside large venues like the Bell Centre in Montreal. The government also speculated that mask and vaccine mandates could be lifted at that time.

www.nationnews.ca February 25, 2022 the Nation 5

6 the Nation February 25, 2022 www.nationnews.ca

Editorial News

Yabba Dabba Doo? Indigenous leaders say convoy is ‘mocking’ Indigenous culture Photo & story by Ben Powless, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

fter more than three weeks of an occupation of downtown Ottawa by a motley coalition of truckers, conspiracy theorists and extreme-right activists, local Indigenous leaders are denouncing one faction of the protest that claims to represent First Nations and Métis peoples. The convoy arrived in Ottawa January 30, ostensibly to protest a vaccine mandate required for truckers to cross between the US and Canada. Since then, the convoy has emerged as a focal point of several issues, including demands for an end to all Covid-related vaccine and sanitary requirements, and others calling for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to resign or even be arrested. However, videos shared on social media showed several other participants drumming, setting up a teepee and engaging in other Aboriginal-themed ceremonies in downtown Ottawa. One video shows a group of non-Native individuals drumming and dancing while chanting cartoon character Fred Flintstone’s famous phrase, “Yabba dabba doo.” In response, Algonquins of Pikwakanagan Chief Wendy Jocko, Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg Chief Dylan Whiteduck and Algonquin Anishinabeg Nation Tribal Council Acting Grand Chief Savanna McGregor issued a press release denouncing the convoy’s actions. “The actions that are taking place in our Territory (Ottawa, ON) is unacceptable,” the chiefs said in a statement. “For those who are participating in these actions, the Algonquin Nation does not support the setup of a teepee, the pipe ceremony and a sacred fire in Confederation Park in support of the ‘Freedom Convoy’. “The Algonquin Nation did not give consent for these ceremonial practices and could cause more harm to who are as First Nations/Algonquin people. First Nations and non-Indigenous people should always remember protocol and that permission from us needed to proceed,” the statement continued. Claudette Commanda, an Algonquin Elder and professor of law at the University of Ottawa, said she felt three emotions seeing the protestors engaged in First Nations ceremonies. “I said it was so ridiculous I wanted to laugh, but the second part of me was sick to my stomach and third was a sad feeling,” Commanda observed. “It’s a mockery of our spirituality and our ancestors

and culture. These people come from a place of ignorance and racism, it’s clear they have no respect for First Nations people because if they did, they wouldn’t be conducting themselves this way.” Commanda believes that members of the convoy sought to bolster their demands by demonstrating they had support from Indigenous Peoples. “I’m told there are First Nations and Métis people who are part of the freedom convoy; some are truckers, so they say we have Indigenous Peoples supporting so we have the support of the Indigenous world,” Commanda said. She argues however that they are being used as tokens – to claim broad Indigenous support. Commanda is happy that the Algonquin leadership denounced the convoy. “Our Elders in our community were heartbroken to see this taking place,” she noted. “Not just in Algonquin communities but various First Nations and Inuit communities.” Commanda says she received gratitude and support from both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people for raising these concerns, while also being told by a few that she doesn’t have a right to speak on the issue. “It’s more than right – it’s a responsibility,” she responded. “We spoke from that position of responsibility to protect the sacredness of our culture, identity and lands.” Her message to the protesters was that anything can be resolved with open, peaceful and respectful dialogue, but that the protesters need to understand the impact they are having on peoples’ lives. “It would be worthwhile for them to meet with First Nations and Indigenous Peoples to hear our story about lost freedoms and what freedom really means,” she insisted. Commanda underlined the jarring contrast between the police reaction to the convoy and protests by Indigenous Peoples. “When our people protest, the police don’t even need an excuse to come in, they have snipers and everything. I hope they extend the same kindness when it’s us next time.” Ottawa police face criticism for allowing the convoy to continue for so long, blockading a large portion of the city’s downtown, closing bridges connecting Ottawa to Quebec, and disturbing residents and downtown workers with incessant honking at all hours. Police Chief Peter Sloly resigned February 15 in response. www.nationnews.ca February 25, 2022

the Nation 7

ᐄᔨᔨᐤ ᐊᔨᒧᐧᐃᓐ ᐲᓯᒽ 2022 Iyiyiu Ayimuwin Pîsimw ᐆ ᐁᐃᐦᑕᑯᐦᒡ ᐁᐃᔑ ᐱᒥᐸᔨᐦᑖᔮᐦᒡ 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᙮ ᐆ ᐁᐃᔑ ᒌᓱᐧᐋᓅᐦᒡ “ᑖᐧᐯᐅᒉᔨᒥᓲ” ᒥᔅᑕᐦᐄ ᓂᑎᑌᔨᐦᑕᒥᐦᐄᑯᓈᓐ ᐆ ᐁᐃᔑ ᐱᒥᐸᔨᐦᑖᔮᐦᒡ ᐧᐁᔥ ᓂᐧᐄ ᒋᔅᒉᔨᐦᑕᒥᐦᐋᓈᓐᒡ ᑯᔅᒋᓃᒌᒥᓅᒡ ᑖᓐ ᒉ ᒌᔑ ᒥᔅᑯᓰᐧᑖᐤ ᓀᔥᑦ ᒉ ᒌ ᒥᔫᑲᓄᐧᐋᐸᒥᓱᐧᑖᐤ᙮

ᐊᓂᑌ ᐧᐁᐦᒡ ᐱᒥᐸᔨᐦᑖᑲᓅᐦᒡ 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 ᐁᒪᑯᓂᑲᓅᐦᒡ ᐊᒋᐦᑖᓱᓐ 1172 ᐁᒋᓯᐸᔨᐦᒡ ᐁᐃᔑ ᐲᐦᑌᓯᓇᐦᐄᒉᔨᓐ: YES@cngov.ca

WEEK 1 & 2

WEEK 3

ᐄᔨᔨᐅᔨᒻᐦ, ᒋᔥᑖᔨᐦᑎᐦ ᑭᔮᐦ ᓂᐦᑖᐧᐃᒋᐦᑖᐦ

ᐄᔨᔨᐅᔥᑖᐦ, ᐋᐱᒋᐦᑖᐦ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒥᔥᑭᐧᐃᐦᑖᐦ

Iiyiyiuyimh

Iiyiyiuishtâh

Honour and Enhance

Practise and Strengthen

WEEK 4

WEEK 5

ᐄᔨᔨᐅᔨᒥᐦᑖᐦ, ᓵᒋᐦᑖᐦ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒌᐦᑳᓈᑯᐦᑖᐦ

ᐄᔨᔨᐅᓂᑭᒧᐦ, ᒥᐧᔮᔨᐦᑎᐦ ᑭᔮᐦ ᑭᓂᐧᐋᔨᐦᑎᐦ

Iiyiyiuyimihtâh

Iiyiyiunikimuh

Enjoy and Promote

Celebrate and Safeguard

Look for activities on social media & use #ayimuwin to participate in draws Follow our page on Facebook

ᐄᔨᔨᐤ ᐊᔨᒧᐧᐃᓐ ᐲᓯᒽ - Iyiyiu Ayimuwin Pîsimw Department of Social & Cultural Development ᐃᔨᔨᐤ ᑲᔦ ᐃᔨᓂᐤ ᑎᐯᔨᐦᒋᒉᓯᐤ (Cree Nation Government)

In Brief Wet’suwet’en land defenders appeal to UN On February 7, Gidimt’en land defenders made a submission to the United Nations about Canada’s “ongoing human rights violations, militarization of Wet’suwet’en lands, forcible removal and criminalization of peaceful land defenders, and irreparable harm due to industrial destruction of Wet’suwet’en lands and cultural sites.” The submission was prepared by Wet’suwet’en Hereditary Chief Dinï ze’ Woos (Frank Alec), Gidimt’en checkpoint spokesperson Sleydo’ (Molly Wickham) and Gidimt’en media coordinator Jen Wickham. It was co-authored by legal, academic and human rights experts and supported by over two dozen organizations, including the Union of BC Indian Chiefs and Amnesty InternationalCanada. They accused Canada of continuing to violate Wet’suwet’en jurisdiction and the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) by proceeding with the Coastal GasLink pipeline on unceded Wet’suwet’en territory in Northwestern BC. The submission describes the Indigenous resistance and police violence since the beginning of this project,

which intends to transport fracked natural gas over 670 km to a proposed plant in Kitimat. “Wet’suwet’en is an international frontline to protect the rights of Indigenous peoples and to prevent climate change,” stated Sleydo’. “Yet we are intimidated and surveilled by armed RCMP, smeared as terrorists, and dragged through colonial courts. This is the reality of Canada.” In 2019, the UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination called on Canada to stop construction of the pipeline until free, prior and informed consent was obtained from affected nations. After the federal government didn’t respond, the UN said Canada is improperly interpreting UNDRIP. Although Chiefs from all five Clans of the Wet’suwet’en Nation, including the Gidimt’en, have opposed the pipeline project, five of the nation’s six band councils have signed benefits agreements with Coastal GasLink. Some members of the First Nation have said that the protesters “do not represent the collective views of the Clan or of most Wet’suwet’en people.” Since 2019, 74 people have been arrested and detained, most recently during violent RCMP raids on November 18 and 21. On February 14, 34 of these “water protectors”,

legal observers and journalists appeared in BC Supreme Court. “We’re not afraid of them and, at the same time, we’re not afraid to stand up for what is right,” said Chief Woos. “We’re not afraid to stand up to save our headwaters and to protect the environment.”

My Vaxx Journey The National Association of Friendship Centres (NAFC) and the Indigenous Youth Working Group on Vaccine Uptake announced the launch of the My Vaxx Journey video giveaway as a project aimed to promote the voices of youth who decided to get a vaccine. Indigenous youth aged 12-29 are encouraged to submit a video entry at myvaxxjourney.ca, and become eligible to win one of 150 pairs of Air Jordan Union LA x Air Jordan 4 retro sneakers, valued at $315 per pair. The campaign is open for entries until March 31. The initiative began when members of the Working Group decided they needed a campaign by Indigenous youth, for Indigenous youth, to spread vaccine awareness and address concerns they might have around vaccines. Working Group member Montana Massicotte stated that, “The representation of Indigenous youth across the country allowed diversity and

for the campaign to be grounded in what we bring to the table; Indigenous knowledge/ teachings, our Indigenous languages, and honouring our voices. It has been a wonderful experience to work with vibrant and passionate Indigenous youth across the country to create health messaging to keep us protected and that resonates with our community.

In Brief

Canadian School Counselling Week The Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) marked the 8th annual Canadian School Counselling Week (February 7-11) by launching an initiative to recognize the work of school counsellors as students have faced increased stress and mental health challenges brought on by the pandemic. According to a survey by the Mental Health Commission of Canada in 2020, 48% of Canadian youth reported their biggest challenges during the pandemic have been feeling isolated and lonely, while 33% reported the move to online learning as a major challenge, while 9% said their challenge was limited access to mental health supports and 2% reported their fear of contracting Covid. “During the Covid-19 pandemic, school counsellors have provided students with the support, consistency and predictability that are essential to help them navigate these times of stress and uncertainty,” said CCPA President Dr. Kathy Offet-Gartner. “We want to highlight the role that this profession plays in overall student success.”

www.nationnews.ca February 25, 2022

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Features

10 the Nation February 11, 2022 www.nationnews.ca

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Photos provided by Clarence Louie

Lessons on

leadership New book shares insights from Chief Clarence Louie’s lifetime of learning by Ben Powless, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

orn into an impoverished First Nation in the Okanagan Valley of British Columbia, Chief Clarence Louie has become every bit a modern success story, serving as chief for nearly four decades and helping to propel his band to economic success. First elected chief at the age of 24 in 1985, Louie helped turn the Osoyoos Indian Band into a success story, with high employment and millions in revenue for its 400 members. For his accomplishments, he’s been awarded the Order of Canada and was the first Indigenous person inducted into the Canadian Business Hall of Fame. He’s also sought out widely as a speaker, having travelled to Eeyou Istchee on various occasions to share his wisdom. Now, in his self-described “last quarter” of life, Louie decided to impart some of the lessons he’s lived and learned into a memoir, Rez Rules: My Indictment of Canada’s and America’s Systemic Racism Against Indigenous Peoples. Looking back on his life, he offers a confrontational look at modern issues, including life on the rez, Native humour, systemic racism and residential schools. Louie told the Nation that he’s been asked for over 20 years to write a book and decided “it’s now or never” to finally put one out. “I often quote from books because I think most successful people are educated people; a good part of their teachings come from books,” he said. As an alumnus of First Nations University and the University of Lethbridge, Louie is passionate about education and encouraging Native people to read. “In today’s society, leaders are readers,” he insisted. “The sad fact is that most Natives don’t read books, don’t have a personal library. I’ve been in a lot of households, it’s pretty rare I see a bookcase in Native homes, yet every person says they want their kids to go to school and go to college.” If people don’t have a home library, Louie hopes they seed it by reading his book. “Read mine then start with a book a month,” he suggested. “Successful people are lifelong learners. Nobody is a know-it-all – that means you’re always a student.” Louie acknowledges the importance of traditional education. “In the Native way, it starts at birth and 11 never goes away. There are lessons to be learned in nature, in raising kids. My best teacher is my six-year-old granddaughter – she’s teaching me a lot of life lessons.” www.nationnews.ca February 25, 2022

the Nation 11

One of the lessons he hopes people learn from his book is that reconciliation must “start with the land” and go beyond words and gestures. He sees most intonations of reconciliation as first steps: “They don’t improve quality of life for our people, don’t build a house on my rez or send my youth to college or help with costs that First Nations have to incur.” Louie also sees a need for quality leaders. “We have a lot of smartening up to do. We have to elect good leadership – problems start with leadership,” he explained. “I hope that First Nations people know that leadership isn’t about speeches… There’s too much phoniness in Native elections where we copy White people, even when we complain about White people.” Economic independence, Louis insists, is a requirement for self-sufficiency and justice for First Nations. “Every society comes from an economic base,” he said. “When Hudson’s Bay came through, we had a system of trade before the French and English. They found an ancestral grave that’s 1,500 years old. What they found didn’t come from our territory, it came from

other First Nations down south. It meant we had a system of trade with other First Nations. “That’s what we have to get back to. Our people, every First Nation, self-supported themselves before the reserve system. We had our own system of trade and commerce and the ability to support ourselves.” Louie acknowledges there are major barriers, mostly from the federal government imposing restrictions on First Nations. Nonetheless, he’s optimistic, pointing to Eeyou Istchee as a success story. “Many First Nations have proven they can make millions of dollars and make lots of jobs. The James Bay Cree do it, we do it. You really have two choices: you’re either independent or dependent.” He hopes to gain readers in Eeyou Istchee, saying that he’s given speeches here on several occasions. “I know the James Bay Cree do some good economic development and have some good business operations going, which are an example for the rest of First Nations in the country to go to school on.” The book is available at major stores and from online vendors. It’s also available as an audiobook, read by Chief Louie himself.

“That’s what we have to get back to. Our people, every First Nation, self-supported themselves before the reserve system. We had our own system of trade and commerce and the ability to support ourselves”

12 the Nation February 25, 2022 www.nationnews.ca

www.nationnews.ca February 25, 2022 the Nation 13

14 the Nation

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First Lady

Cree Nation remembers Sophie Bosum by Patrick Quinn, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Photo provided by Irene Bosum

lags across Eeyou Istchee will be lowered to half-mast to honour the life of Sophie Happyjack Bosum – who passed away February 3 following an extended illness – until her funeral on March 2.

Her husband, former Grand Chief Abel Bosum, broke the news with a heartbreaking post: “My childhood sweetheart, my partner in life, my soulmate, my best friend, the love of my life, Sophie, has gone home!” Born June 24, 1956, to Jacob and Winnie Happyjack on her late father’s trapline in Waswanipi territory, Sophie was sister to Lily, Flora, Charlotte, John, Jack, Danny, Anna, Daisy and the late Norman. After a traditional life on the land in early childhood, Sophie was taken to residential school in La Tuque and was profoundly shaped by her experiences there. She met her future husband at La Tuque, where a friendship deepened into a lifelong partnership committed to fighting injustices against Indigenous people. When Sophie returned home in summer, Abel would sometimes hitchhike two days across the territory to visit her. Sophie and Abel married in 1975 and began their family in Chibougamau, where Sophie worked closely with Anne-Marie Awashish and Judy Parsaud to establish what’s now called the Eenou Friendship Centre. Their children – Irene, Curtis, Reggie and Nathaniel (who died in a motocross event in 2018) – motivated their desire for a better life. Shortly after the birth of their second child, the growing family moved to Val-d’Or, where the first office of the Grand Council of the Crees was located. It was here that both began their remarkable careers contributing to the development of the Cree Nation, Abel initially in an economic development position and Sophie in the Cree School Board’s purchasing department. “I remember living in Val-d’Or back in 1976 when my dad [Billy Diamond] was Grand Chief,” posted Lorraine Diamond on social media. “The day after my brother Philip was born, Sophie made breakfast for me and my brothers. Not only were they friends with my parents, but all became family because we were Cree.” Eventually they moved back to Chibougamau to help establish OujeBougoumou as the ninth Cree community. As the new community blossomed,

so did Sophie’s professional career in a series of trailblazing roles. Becoming the new administration’s first bookkeeper, she developed the finance system. Soon she became Ouje-Bougoumou’s first woman treasurer, their first Deputy Chief, the first female president of the local development corporation and the first woman to become director general. Her passing is a deep loss for a community that remembers her as a “guiding light”. “It is through her achievements, dedication and very special personal touch that she will be remembered and cherished,” stated Carrie Bush, OujeBougoumou director general. “May we continue to be guided by her wisdom, her passion to make our community a healthy and thriving environment for future generations, her compassion for all our community members, and by her generosity of spirit.”

“She was indeed ahead of her time – Sophie was, in every respect, our First Lady” - Grand Chief Mandy Gull-Masty & Deputy Grand Chief Norman Wapachee

Sophie also played an important role in the region’s education development. She served two terms as school commissioner, and as a community education administrator. “Throughout her tenure, she served with her humble, respectful and compassionate nature,” stated a tribute from the Cree School Board. “She joined the Cree School Board with exemplary experience and left with an insurmountable legacy.” When CREECO and the Board of Compensation moved to Ouje-Bougoumou in 1995, Sophie was instrumental in setting up the office as the first administrative assistant. She became the first local Cree woman to serve on the Board of Directors – for three terms. “Those who were privileged to meet Sophie will remember her warm personality and genuine love for people and life,” stated CREECO. “She was a remarkable

woman and an inspirational leader who led with a true heart.” At the Cree Nation level, she served as director of the Cree Outfitting and Tourism Association and as assistant executive director of the Aanischaaukamikw Cree Cultural Institute. Remembered as a staunch defender of the Cree language and way of life, Sophie approached each position with dedication, dignity and integrity. “Sophie was a rare treasure in our territory,” posted Chisasibi Chief Daisy House. “She really put her whole heart and spirit into her efforts advancing our Nation. What an impressive legacy she has left behind. Sophie broke glass ceilings in many respects. She will always be remembered as a true trailblazer for Eeyou Iskwauw.” Heartfelt condolences have flooded in from all over Eeyou Istchee and from organizations such as the Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador and Makivik Corporation. CNG executive director Bill Namagoose attested to the “comfort and confidence” she brought to the many people she encountered along her journey. “Sophie will be remembered as a First Lady, not only because of her support to Abel but also because she blazed so many trails for Cree women to occupy important positions locally and regionally,” read a statement from Grand Chief Mandy GullMasty and Deputy Grand Chief Norman Wapachee. “She was indeed ahead of her time – Sophie was, in every respect, our First Lady.” Sophie found a careful balance between work and family requirements. Nothing gave her greater joy than being surrounded by her children, grandchildren and great-grandson. “Her door – and her heart – have always been open to anyone who needed a shoulder to cry on, a word of encouragement or wise counsel,” posted Abel on her birthday last year. “Sophie has set a high bar for integrity, loyalty, devotion, commitment, unending love and compassion. We are in awe and will always be mindful of how fortunate we are to be the beneficiaries of everything she has given us.”

www.nationnews.ca February 25, 2022

the Nation 17

CREE JUSTICE FUNDS 2021-2022

CALL FOR PROPOSALS FUNDING PRIORITIES

CRIME PREVENTION FUNDS

YOUTH ENGAGEMENT FUNDS

To prevent and combat crime in Eeyou Istchee by addressing the underlying causes

To empower and engage youth by promoting positive lifestyle choices that reflect our cultural values

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

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. t Our trained 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:

www.nationnews.ca February 25, 2022

the Nation 19

Community

How do you say ‘puck’? Language revitalization efforts take centre stage during Cree language month by Patrick Quinn, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

s the office of the Cree language commissioner prepares a month of activities throughout March, its initiatives are giving the language new visibility. For the first time, CBC’s coverage of the Winter Olympics in Beijing featured Cree-language broadcasting during the opening ceremonies and key hockey games.

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20 the Nation February 25, 2022 www.nationnews.ca

“We’re making history,” said Dorothy Stewart, who co-hosted with Betsy Longchap. “It’s been very exciting. We’ve had very positive feedback – lots of people are really happy to hear our language being televised like that. It’s important we do the best we can and promote using the language properly.” While Stewart is a former co-ed hockey player, she interviewed coaches to prepare for this opportunity, brushing up on hockey jargon and finding Cree translations for words like “penalty”. As the games approached, inspiration for explaining the action would sometimes come in her dreams. “Our language is very descriptive,” Stewart asserted. “We don’t have ‘puck’ in Cree so we have to describe that black thing they pass around. How do you say it without the play passing you by? You have to be in the moment so there’s a flow to it. It made the game exciting apparently!” Like many residential school survivors, Stewart was determined to regain her Cree fluency. She would attend her father’s meetings as a tallyman, sit with Elders and took language classes in Wemindji. As host of CBC North’s Winschgaoug morning show, Stewart’s language mentors help her develop a rich vocabulary while staying fresh with emerging terminology. “I’m picking up that level of language that’s not used every day because we want our listeners, most often Elders, to understand what we’re saying,”

explained Stewart. “It’s my job and I see my grandsons enjoy this. The one in Mistissini who is nine told us his Cree culture teacher often records the show and they listen to it.” These platforms for cultural representation are invaluable for language retention in the age of constant media exposure. While there are no statistics detailing Cree fluency since a language summit in 1997 and a 1989 survey, the consensus is that it’s in significant decline. After the CNG passed the Cree Language Act in 2019, Jamie Moses was appointed to a five-year term as the first language commissioner a little over a year ago. The Act called for local governments, regional entities, businesses and other institutions to adopt and submit a Cree language plan for improving the use of Cree within their organizations. “A lot has changed in our communities,” said Moses. “Like everywhere else, our Indigenous language is at

threat because of the influence of the very fast pace of technology.” Raised by his grandparents on the land, Moses believes those who choose traditional paths to cultural knowledge should be valued in Cree society. Noting that university graduates receive far better pay and opportunities than other language keepers, Moses recalled having to convince his grandfather to let him learn at the camp rather than focus on his education. “I saw I was privileged to have my grandfather around,” Moses, 39, told the Nation. “I took that risk as a young man to master my language and cultural activities. I recognized the knowledge my grandparents carried needed to be absorbed by somebody else in the family, so these teachings are continued to the next generation.” Moses now passes along this knowledge through regular videos posted on social media – just the previous evening he had been preparing bear grease until midnight. Jamie Moses, Language Commissioner

I recognized the knowledge my grandparents carried needed to be absorbed - Jamie Moses “I always try to do a cultural activity and use technology to encourage others,” Moses explained. “By 7 o’clock I was able to share what we call Eeyou popcorn – a crispy fat almost like popcorn chicken. I let my grease cool down for a few hours and today I was able to distribute it with Elders in the community.” After hiring Shannon Atsanaya as coordinator last summer, Moses appointed an ad-hoc advisory committee which met for the first time in November. The office helps Cree communities to access federal funding from the Department of Canadian Heritage to establish language departments. In the past year, six communities have received funding and two have applications under review, enabling local language kits, audio/visual documentation and language surveys. Moses hopes to expand community partnerships with the Cree School Board and leverage their extensive language resources. With March recently named Cree Language Month, his team is launching a Facebook page and a variety of fun educational activities to promote language learning at all levels. Noting the United Nation’s International Decade of Indigenous Languages begins this year, Moses recalled racist comments made after a CBC article about his appointment. “It was crazy to see the amount of people who want to see us fail and lose our language,” said Moses. “The best approach would be to take our young people out on the land. In real life, sometimes that’s very difficult. We must find innovative ways to reach out – my dream would be to achieve programs and apps, but we won’t be able to achieve all of that alone.”

www.nationnews.ca February 25, 2022

the Nation 21

Politics

The Paix des Braves at 20 Leaders reflect on the history and future of the agreement by Ben Powless Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

ree Nation leaders could have been forgiven for thinking the Quebec and Canadian governments would finally respect Cree sovereignty when the three parties signed the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement (JBNQA) nearly 50 years ago. However, their failure to do so led to several years-long legal disputes, in part due to excessive logging on Cree territory and opposition to the proposed Great Whale hydroelectric project. That set the stage for the Cree Nation and Quebec to return to the negotiating table, culminating in the signing of the Paix des Braves agreement on February 7, 2002. The deal gained greater autonomy for Cree economic and community development, while also detailing how forestry and environmental assessments would be carried out in a way respectful to Cree culture. Now, 20 years later, leaders of the Cree Nation and the Quebec government are reflecting on where the agreement has brought them, and what the future holds. “It’s a pleasure to mark the 20th anniversary of the signing of the Paix des Braves,” Grand Chief Mandy Gull-Masty remarked in a written statement. “This agreement marked a new relationship [...] built on trust and partnership, one that was negotiated with former Grand

Photo of Ted Moses with Bernard Landry

Chief Ted Moses and Premier Bernard Landry.” Gull-Masty added the deal was an opportunity for the Cree to participate in the economic development of their territory. “It provided the opportunity for the Cree to take on the management and leadership and development of Cree communities,” she continued. It provided tools and funding to develop infrastructure and spur the rapid development across Cree communities, Gull-Masty noted. She also signalled her intention to sit down with Quebec Premier François Legault to evaluate the current agreement and

22 the Nation February 25, 2022 www.nationnews.ca

plan the next 30 years of the relationship. Moses signed the Paix de Braves while serving as Grand Chief in 2002. “We’ve seen many benefits coming to the Cree Nation. We’ve witnessed the development of our communities which has generated jobs and contracts. We’re now enjoying the long-term benefits of Paix des Braves,” Moses said in a video address. “We must constantly remind ourselves of why we are here and constantly harken back to our original vision of what it takes to build a healthy and dynamic future for all of us. We are renewing our commitment to collabo-

rate and build together in a spirit of mutual understanding and respect.” Premier Legault said that both Landry and Moses were pioneers. “It has created long-term prosperity for our peoples,” Legault observed. “Broader autonomy has enabled the Cree Nation to pursue its rapid development. All the positive effects of this major agreement are apparent 20 years later, and it must serve as an example.” Notwithstanding the rosy assessments, sharp divisions erupted after the agreement-in-principle was announced in October 2001. Many objected to the opportunities for further hydroelectric development – such as the diversion of the Rupert River – and believed the Cree should continue the fight to ensure the JBNQA was respected. The late Grand Chief Billy Diamond told the Nation in late 2001 that the youth were livid over the deal. “The youth feel very betrayed by the Cree leadership,” Diamond said. “The sense of betrayal is showing up in their anger. Someone should have told the people we are working on an agreement with the Premier of Quebec. That’s why it shocked the people.” The acrimony forced the Grand Council to hold a referendum. Despite fierce opposition, especially in Chisasibi, 70% of Cree voters voted to approve the agreement after intense debate in all communities. In retrospect, CNG Executive Director Bill Namagoose says the Cree had no option but to try to stop the development of the Great Whale hydroelectric project to get Canada and Quebec to respect the promises they made in the JBQNA. “We succeeded in our efforts to stop the Great Whale project, which would have generated 3,000 megawatts, but flooded over 3,000 square kilometres of land,” Namagoose explained. “We did this by successfully getting the power export contracts to the USA – worth billions – cancelled. And to a certain extent, our visibility and the success of our participation in the Parti Québécois sovereignty debate and drive; these two factors led to a very acrimonious relationship that hurt Quebec and the Cree Nation.” Namagoose said that the relationship between Quebec and the Cree Nation was not sustainable – that then-Premier Landry realized this and seized the opportunity to make peace with then-Grand Chief Moses, resulting in the Paix des Braves agreement. Namagoose says it was successful and transformed both Cree communities and the relationship with Quebec. “It raised many opportunities and generated added value in the health and education sector, and especially in job creation. The innovative idea and structure of transferring Quebec treaty obligations to the Cree Nation, with the appropriate financial resources to implement for 50 years captured the imagination of many,” he said. “It’s called ‘Peace of the Brave’ because you have to be brave to go where no one dared go before.” www.nationnews.ca February 25, 2022

the Nation 23

CALL FOR APPLICATIONS Puzzles The Health and Welfare Commissioner’s consultation forumCrossword

2022–2025 CONSULTATION FORUM RECRUITMENT

by Margie E. Burke

IT’S TAX SEASON. IS YOUR VOTER INFORMATION UP TO DATE?

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 ACROSS 1 Exotic vacation 13 14 15 spot 18 16 17 5 Bath powder The Health and Welfare Commissioner (CSBE) is recruiting members for 9 Garland the consultation forum, in accordance with the Regulation respecting 20 21 19 the procedure for choosing persons qualified for appointment13to Midterm, e.g. 14 October stone 22 23 24 the consultation forum (CQLR, c. C-32.1.1, r. 1). Members of this 15 Theater platform unique deliberative body, which includes 18 members of the public 25 26 27 28 29 30 from all regions of Québec and 9 health and welfare experts, will16 be Let go 18 Roadside stop 31 33 32 appointed by the Commissioner in June 2022 for a three-year term. 19 Additional 34 35 36 How to apply 20 Never-ending 22 Excellent, a) General public: Go to faitesentendrevotrevoix.com and apply 38 39 37 CANADIAN CITIZEN CHECK “YES” ON by 11:59 p.m. on March 10, 2022. Institut du Nouveau Monde slangily 18 OR OLDER YOUR TAX FORM 41 42 40 (INM) will review the applications and recommend at least three 24 per School tool 25 Interrogate region to the Commissioner. To contact INM, call 1-866-646-5089 43 44 45 27 Quitter's word (toll-free). 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 28 Scottish cap b) Experts: Express your interest to the organization 31or Garage gadgets 54 55 53 university department you are affiliated with on the list 33at Opera house faitesentendrevotrevoix.com. The Commissioner has asked these box 57 58 56 establishments to recommend no more than three applications 34 Straight, at the BE READY TO VOTE IN 60 61 59 bar by April 11, 2022. FEDERAL ELECTIONS PREVIOUS SOLUTION: 35 Canoe material Copyright 2022 by The Puzzle Syndicate CSBE cannot receive applications directly. 36 Missing from the I L E F E E toTlearn more. A L M S See Tfaitesentendrevotrevoix.com Marines, say 58 Word before 10 Tall town land32 Lemony A V O N P I N T A R A I L 37 Anagram for "break" or "keel" mark, often cocktails "bale" 59 Bird feeder tidbit 11 Forever and a 33 Coated with R O T C A N T H R A C I T E 38 "Terms of 60 Husky's tow day plastic S H R E W A R T I L L E R Y _______" 61 Fender blemish 12 Hair goops 39 Indian yogurt dip Y O R E P A L A T E 40 Like Willie Winkie 15 Refine, as metal 41 Marsh wader C A P R I G E R M A N 41 Serpent's sound DOWN 17 False gods 44 Swollen 42 Vegan no-no 1 Kind of blocker 21 Awning, e.g. 45 On the __ of L I N G E R A G O A W O L 43 Pick pockets 2 Canned 23 Commoner, in (close to) A N N O Y E D C A V E M A N 45 Marble feature 3 Frying medium ancient Rome 46 Impudent talk I R E U N T O L D V A S E 46 Gloomy 4 Without delay 25 Cousin of a loon 47 Sheltered, D E N O T E P L A C E 49 Mystic's deck 5 Boatload 26 Zillow industry nautically C A S S I S A R C H 53 San Antonio 6 Quickly 27 Half of Miss 48 Catch in the act landmark 7 Overdue Muffet's meal 50 Tear apart A S S E T E N T E R T A I N 54 Written account 8 Department 29 Great distress 51 Chef's need I N F O R E E L E C T I O N 56 Begin, as winter store event 30 Cheesy 52 Revival setting A T O N E M A I N T A R O 57 Acronym for 9 Lifted, so to sandwich 55 Stewart of song T O N E E L S E S L A T bad PC data speak 31 Vex, with "at"

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.

Claim what’s yours.

SUDOKU

Medium

Previous solution - Tough

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

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

No. 297

Medium

6 8 5 4 7 9 2 9 submit 8 1 July 13, 2022 is the last day you are able to a4claim. How to beat Str8ts – 6 8 7 5confidential. It’s 8 free and Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any row or column. But... 5 9 2 9 2 rows and columns are divided by black squares into compartments. These to be filled in with numbers that 4 7 6 For information or legal support 3 need visit: complete a ‘straight’. A straight is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in indiandayschools.com 1-844-539-3815 1 8 3 2 2 7 or call any order, eg [4,2,3,5]. Clues in black remove that number as an option Hope for Wellness Help Line: cells 1-855-242-3310 in that row and column, and are not part 2 5 7 1 3 1 9 5 © 2022 Syndicated Puzzles

7 others who attended a Join the more than 130,000 Federal 3 Indian Day School and have applied for compensation. 6 2 7

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

5 7 3 8 2 6 1 9 4

3 9 6

of any straight. Glance at the solution to The solutions will be published here in the next issue. see how ‘straights’ are formed.

24 the Nation February 25, 2022 www.nationnews.ca

Previous solution - Easy

STR8TS No. 297

9 1 4 5 3 7 8 2 6

2 8 6 1 4 9 3 5 7

3 2 1 9 8 4 7 6 5

6 9 7 3 1 5 2 4 8

4 5 8 6 7 2 9 1 3

1 4 9 7 6 8 5 3 2

7 6 5 2 9 3 4 8 1

8 3 2 4 5 1 6 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.

Rez Notes

Spread the love by Sonny Orr

his Valentine’s Day was different. The rush to get chocolates and flowers in time for the pre-lineup rush hours and time to wipe that gooey face after a long day cloaked in a mask and settle down for some serious Valentine ventures. Yes, the new pandemic baby is fast approaching. Will the child have pre-emptive DNA characteristics and be immune to future diseases that are now considered practically a plain old cold or common flu? Perhaps endemic is the correct word for it. However, the need for lockdowns and being in close family quarters might have created a new baby craze. Yes, the fear of the unknown and the need to have someone carry on your good looks for the next 10 generations is a mighty temptation that few couples can resist. Take note of the other babies who are now grown up and have something in common with each other. For example, I’m a baby boomer, not sure what reason that was for – perhaps repopulating after a few wars might have prompted that moniker. Then Generation X, and then the Millennium baby, for the end-of-the-world nightmare. These babies were usually born in late September or early October and often compete with the hockey tournament babies, who are now nearing 40 and might have been responsible for babysitting during the ice storm offspring uprising, which was again in the late fall. What is it about cold weather that stirs so many lonely hearts?

Get back into the swing of things and do something for the one you love

Soon, during Remembrance Day celebrations, Phase 3 babies will start appearing and will not look like anyone from a familiar bubble. Weren’t all the other kids’ hair partings on the other side? Didn’t freckles run in our family until now? Doesn’t he look like the so-and-so who lives on the other side of town? Suspicious minds will soon be overwhelmed with the happiness of going out to get something eat and sitting down in a restaurant instead of waiting for a knock at your door and opening it to find that Chinese takeout meal for six required two trips up your driveway. Yes, the nosh at your favourite eatery Generation Baby Boom is soon coming up, every two weeks on paydays for the next year or so, depending on the lineup. I predict this summer will have lots of people outdoors to commemorate the act of socializing and numerous Woodstocktype concerts will pop up in the coming years, promoting free sharing of bubbles and other needed social activities without having to go to war over getting your way. There may still be a chance for those who

didn’t want to raise a child, much less make one, to live in such a dour future, a life without physical contact, a life without real love, only love scattered about like so many heart emojis, as those were the only safe ones to give. Today, life up close is starting to look like it will be back soon if there aren’t any nuisances to block its return. Kind of like the recent roadblocks in our nation’s capital by those 18-wheelers. At the time of this writing, it turns out that only a few of the demonstrators are peacefully protesting as some were busted for weapons and firearms. Sometimes freedoms can be taken away by just a few misguided souls, who will leave scars on our psyche for generations, simply because they were fed up. Hey, I get fed up every day, but do you see me bragging about it or causing more misfortune on others? Now get back into the swing of things and do something for the one you love, other than forcing a rose down our throats and expecting some love in return. Just be cool and love one another.

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

www.nationnews.ca February 25, 2022

the Nation 25

Tea Bannock A moral compass by Maïtée Labrecque-Saganash

ebruary is Black History Month. For the occasion, I watched the very necessary documentary Dreamland: The Burning of Black Wall Street that tells the stories of the African-American communities who fled the South to settle in Oklahoma in what was still considered “Indian Territory” at the time. After the Indian Removal Act, Indigenous peoples in the Deep South were forced from their lands to make way for settlers. This massive displacement of Native Americans that took place between 1831 and 1833 is still known today as the Trail of Tears. As I mentioned here before, many African-Americans enslaved by Indigenous folks were part of the Trail of Tears. To assimilate the “Five Civilized Tribes” into American society, the government strongly encouraged certain Indigenous communities to own Black slaves. After the Civil War and the abolition of slavery under Abraham Lincoln (the same guy who was hanging Dakota men in Minnesota in 1862), Oklahoma became a diverse land of Black and Indigenous communities. Black folks fleeing racial segregation under Jim Crow laws and the violence of the Ku Klux Klan found a place of opportunity. Both Natives and Black people didn’t want Oklahoma to become a state; everyone was aware that statehood and joining the Union would lead to the same problems of racial violence through state regulations. The goal here was different: being able to own land

I don’t think Canada will ever acknowledge that a racist doctrine like Terra Nullius and genocide allowed its creation, because it would compromise its legitimacy

and achieve self-determination through wealth like the White man was doing. By the 1890s, formerly enslaved Black folks were receiving reparations through land allotments and started to thrive in Oklahoma. Owning land opened the door for opportunities such as creating businesses. In Tulsa, the agglomerations of successful Black business owners kept attracting more Black folks. This wealthy Black community led to the rise of the Greenwood District, also known as the “Black Wall Street”. Unfortunately, the idea of Black people becoming as wealthy – if not more – than the people who once enslaved them was unacceptable for many. In 1921, the Greenwood District went up in flames during an orgy of lynching and looting. Hundreds were killed by white mobs that were armed and deputized by local authorities. How do we achieve Indigenous sovereignty and Black liberation if we can’t achieve self-determination through wealth? Is “Land Back” really land back

if we have to buy it from our oppressors? These are all questions I ask myself, especially after seeing many demonstrators in Ottawa carrying hateful symbols like Confederate flags and swastikas. How do we reconcile both philosophies in our communities: gaining power by becoming an important economic player in the system, or overthrow the system altogether? Do we participate in an economic system deeply rooted in land dispossession and resource extractions, or do we put all our energy into dreaming of something new? I don’t think Canada will ever acknowledge that a racist doctrine like Terra Nullius and genocide allowed its creation, because it would compromise its legitimacy. Should we wait for Canada to suddenly have a moral compass, or should we become better at playing their game? I don’t have the answer to this, but I sometimes allow myself to dream of something better for my people by imagining new cards than those my oppressors dealt me.

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.

26 the Nation February 25, 2022 www.nationnews.ca

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