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CONTENTS EDITORIAL

10 An eventful summer Whats happening in Eeyou Istchee

Blockade season

Sixth wave weakens

Legitimate take-over

NEWS

BRIEFS FEATURES

Tourism rebound

The skin of the bear

Making milk affordable

Indigenous ownership grows 22

PUZZLES REZ NOTES

Community

24 25

Spring woes

T&B Scary, but beautiful

Rediculous prices

Business

16 Finally, electricity

ᐅᕙᓂ ᐱᒋᐊᕐᐳᖅ ᓄᓇᕕᒃ ᐅᕙᓂ ᐱᒋᐊᕐᐳᖅ ᓄᓇᕕᒃ Nunavik Starts Here Nunavik Starts Here

ᐅᕙᓂ ᐱᒋᐊᕐᐳᖅ ᓄᓇᕕᒃ ᐅᕙᓂ ᐱᒋᐊᕐᐳᖅ Nunavik Startsᓄᓇᕕᒃ Here Heated housing Starts Here 22 Nunavik market

Photo by: Annie-Claude Roberge

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Editorial

Blockade season by Will Nicholls

lockade season, also known as summer, is at our doorstep. First to set up camp may be the Mohawks protesting the Quebec government’s Bill 96, which they say will impose onerous French-language requirements. Other First Nations are taking an interesting approach to the politics of protest. Lennox Island First Nation is a Mi’kmaq community frustrated by federal foot stalling government over their treaty obligations dating back to the 1760s, when the British and the Mi’kmaq signed Peace and Friendship Treaties. They acknowledge the Mi’kmaq right to hunt and fish, and to trade or sell their catches. Once honoured without a problem, in modern times Canada has cracked down on First Nations fishers. Most notably was Donald Marshall Jr., who was charged with eel fishing out of season. His case went all the way to the Supreme Court in 1999, winning a ruling that upheld the treaties. Months later, the Supreme Court amended the decision to say that the Mi’kmaq nations’ right to fish could be regulated by the federal government in the interest of conservation, and that Indigenous fishers were entitled to a “moderate livelihood” from the harvest. No one has ever said what a “moderate livelihood” actually is. Since then, Lennox First Nation say the feds have dragged their heels in negotiations. They asked for 1,000 lobster traps but Ottawa only permitted them 300. So, the First Nation decided to go ahead to build a self-regulated treaty fishery. They aren’t the first ones to do so without Department of Fisheries authorization. In 2020, we saw non-Native fishers destroy First Nations catches while the RCMP stood by. Lennox Chief Darlene

“When it’s a problem for our communities nothing happens but when it’s a problem for the non-Indigenous community it becomes a matter of crisis or urgency” -University of Saskatchewan Public Policy Professor Ken Coates

Benard said, “I want the commercial fishers all across PEI to have a great season, but I want us to have that. That’s all, we just want the same.” She may not get her wish as the DFO has said that it’s an unauthorized fishery. Enforcement of DFO regulations could mean trap seizures or fines. It should be an interesting time for the community. At the other end of the country, the Piikani Nation in southern Alberta closed a canal gate that diverted water from the Old Man River. This left hundreds of area farmers without water. The Piikani move is in response to being shut out of talks over water usage. The First Nation wanted to be a part of the process, environmentally and economically. After five years they turned the water off to get the government’s attention.

Their tactic appears to have succeeded as Alberta and the Piikani have signed an agreement that reopened water flows to needy farmers and cattlemen. As University of Saskatchewan Public Policy Professor Ken Coates said, “When it’s a problem for our communities nothing happens but when it’s a problem for the non-Indigenous community it becomes a matter of crisis or urgency.” While the Lennox First Nation may have to follow in Donald Marshall Jr.’s footsteps and go to court, many resource disputes have seen First Nations make gains. The Piikani First Nation found a way around this. Both are lessons in the continuing fight for Indigenous self-determination and a better life. And both First Nations are taking steps in a different direction from the Blockade Season path.

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 May 20, 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

Sixth wave weakens

Health authorities push to keep masks as mandate ends across Quebec

eyou Istchee saw a dramatic drop in the number of active cases of Covid, as similar health metrics from across the province showed the sixth wave declining. The Cree Health Board reported May 4 that there were 270 active cases and five people hospitalized, compared to 519 cases two weeks earlier. Cases were highest in Chisasibi and Whapmagoostui, with 85 and 53 respectively. They were lowest in Nemaska and Ouje-Bougoumou, with both reporting eight cases. For two consecutive days, April 30 and May 1, there were no new cases reported, a significant shift. That brings the total number of infections across Eeyou Istchee to 6,434 in the current outbreak that began in December, representing nearly a third of the Cree population. A recent study by Héma-Québec found that over a quarter of Quebec adults developed Covid antibodies between January and mid-March. The blood service organization looked at samples from donors and compared them to those taken from the same individuals before the Omicron variant. It’s also estimated that more than a third of all children in Quebec were infected with the virus since the Omicron wave began in December, though they were not included in this study. The CHB recommended that individuals get tested before travelling to their bush camps, and to bring rapid test kits to their camp for Goose Break. They encouraged people to maintain physical distancing and to wear a mask when around people they don’t live with, and to regularly air out their cabins. While Quebec lifted its indoor mask mandate May 14, the CHB’s Public Health Department recommends that indoor masking continue in Eeyou Istchee. Masks are still required on all flights, and people are encouraged to wear masks in indoor areas when travelling to other regions.

“Our most vulnerable populations continue to be at risk of catching the Covid-19 virus” - CHB’s Public Health Department

“Our most vulnerable populations continue to be at risk of catching the Covid-19 virus given ongoing community transmission in Eeyou Istchee. When masks are worn to cover the nose and mouth snugly, they reduce the transmission of virus droplets between people. Masking is an effective layer of protection when people are together indoors, and is an important tool during this transition phase,” the advisory stated. Masks are still required in Quebec in healthcare settings and public transit, as well as federally mandated transit. At the end of April, the CHB reported that 64% of those aged 18-54 had received three doses, while 21% of those aged 55 and over had received four doses. At least 28% of those 12-17 had received three doses, while 58% of those 5-11 had received two doses. All Quebecers 18 and over are now eligible for a fourth dose.

Covid outbreaks, staff shortages and Goose Break leaves continued to affect local clinics, with Ouje-Bougoumou’s CMC, Chisasibi’s Awash Department and Whapmagoostui’s CMC and MSDC all announcing reduced services for the time being. They join Wemindji and Waswanipi, which announced reduced services in April. The federal government allowed its remaining emergency benefits to expire, meaning that workers needing to leave work to care for themselves or others due to Covid are no longer able to access benefits. Meanwhile, Health Canada said it was reviewing Moderna’s Covid vaccine for infants and children under six. That news comes after the company asked US health authorities to authorize its vaccine there for children between six months and five years of age.

www.nationnews.ca May 20, 2022

the Nation 5

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:

6 the Nation May 20, 2022 www.nationnews.ca

he Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador is launching an Office of Self-Determination and SelfGovernment to pool research, legislative materials, and training to help First Nations implement their own laws. The office will conduct studies, gather expertise, and develop a “media watch” on issues related to self-determination. “It’s also a demonstration that we will stand up to colonial governments that would rather see us sitting still and being quiet,” said AFNQL Chief Ghislain Picard at the announcement April 28. “On the whole issue of consultation, Quebec is failing miserably.” The initiative followed a two-day meeting of AFNQL chiefs, who agreed that government consultations on a range of issues were inadequate. Although Quebec unanimously adopted the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in 2019, Picard believes Premier François Legault isn’t honouring the commitment. “On the one hand, they say they support this notion of a nation-to-nation relationship, and on the other hand, they’re acting completely opposed to that very notion,” Picard asserted. “I would even go as far as to say maybe they understand too well what that implies and that’s why we see so much stalling on their part.” Relations between Quebec and the AFNQL soured after November’s Grand Economic Circle of Indigenous People and Quebec, during which Legault made a brief appearance but didn’t engage with chiefs. AFNQL chiefs later sent Legault a letter to insist that projects impacting their territories could only proceed with community consent. The premier didn’t respond. “Exercising this right to self-determination is not an action against Quebecers and Canadians,” explained Picard. “This is a legitimate take-over of the responsibilities that are

Editorial News

‘Legitimate take-over’

Quebec First Nations launch initiative to prepare self-government measures by Patrick Quinn, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Photos provided by the APNQL

ours. The affirmation of our rights will be a powerful lever to ensure respect for our principles and rights to the territory, but also to the preservation of our languages, cultures and the improvement of our socio-economic conditions.” Kahnawake Chief Kahsennenhawe Sky-Deer called the office’s creation a “very timely and empowering” example of the “Indigenous resurgence” developing across Canada. She emphasized that when people cross into traditional Indigenous territories, they need to understand there are distinctive laws that need to be respected. “Historically, we’ve been legislated over, looked at like underlings or that we’re not equal and those times are coming to an end,” said Sky-Deer. “We need to move past structures like the Indian Act and other colonial laws that affect our people.” The Indian Act delegated extensive powers to provincial governments, which exercised them in uneven ways. Amendments to the act have removed some discriminatory aspects and provided greater Indigenous autonomy. But governance structures can vary greatly even within a province. In 1984, the Cree-Naskapi Act became the first piece of Indigenous self-government legislation in Canada. It replaced

the Indian Act and established these Indigenous communities as corporate entities. This act was transferred to the Cree Nation Governance agreement in 2017, creating the Cree Constitution and fully removing federal oversight on Category 1A lands. Former Grand Chief Matthew Coon Come believed this agreement remained faithful to the Cree vision of the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement, the treaty signifying emancipation from the Indian Act and the means to self-government. It led to the first Cree law, the Cree Language Act, and further steps toward self-determination. The Mistissini Governance Project will create five laws intended to revitalize Cree legal principles and traditions. Consultations with community members will inform laws related to governance, hunting, development, Lake Mistissini and the community’s constitution. “The Cree Nation of Mistissini is working to develop fundamental laws that will capture in written form the heart of our Cree worldview – how we relate to each other and to our lands and our waters,” stated Chief Thomas Neeposh. “These laws will set forth traditional Cree knowledge and authority in the form of legislation that clearly describes how our Iinou Iidouwun – our laws and legal systems,

values, principles and practices – apply today.” The Cree Nation develops ways to advance self-determination – most recently the Cree-Naskapi-Inuit permanent forum – a model for other First Nations. In its opposition to Bill 96, the Legault government’s controversial extension of French-language legislation, the AFNQL proposed implementing the same language of instruction principles applied to Cree and Inuit students, among other measures. On May 10, the AFNQL demanded nothing less than a total and resolute exemption from Bill 96 for First Nations members. This came after repeated attempts to propose accommodations to make the law more reconcilable with inherent and constitutionally protected Indigenous rights were ignored or rejected outright. “Even when we play by their rules, we are becoming the victims because none of it is being acknowledged,” said Picard. “We are no longer at the time of negotiations and settlements. We affirm clearly and with a common voice today our absolute refusal to submit to Law 96 and all other laws infringing on our rights.”

www.nationnews.ca May 20, 2022

the Nation 7

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᙮

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In Brief Chibougamau college launches Mîchiwâhp The Centre d’études collégiales à Chibougamau (CECC) launched a permanent exhibit April 20 featuring work by Cree artist Jimmy Tim Whiskeychan and Jamesian artist Stéfanie Thompson. The two made presentations about their artistic choices and careers to the gathering of 60 guests and led creative art workshops for students from the CECC and the Wiinibekuu School in Waskaganish. The college used the opportunity to introduce the Mîchiwâhp, which it described as a “warm, welcoming and safe gathering place for Cree students,” that was developed in collaboration with the Cree Nation. Aileen Hester from Waskaganish suggested the name Mîchiwâhp, meaning “tipi,” in a contest involving over 100 students from all nine Cree communities. Mistissini artist Brendan Forward won an award for best picture of an Eeyou Istchee landscape, which will now be featured on the walls of the Mîchiwâhp. Cree students will be invited in coming years to contribute their ideas and culture to the space. “Our objective is to make higher education more accessible to the Crees of Eeyou

Istchee,” said project manager Dave Harvey. “We now offer regular college programs in English,” he added. “A number of measures, including the creation of an Indigenous Student Services office, have been put in place to encourage Indigenous students’ academic perseverance, success and well-being.” Émilie Martin, administrative assistant at the CECC, said that any community members wishing to view the exhibit were welcome, as the college is a public space, and that larger groups were welcome to contact her to arrange a tour.

Flooding in Kashechewan and Fort Albany Eeyou Istchee, along with much of the rest of Canada, appears to be in a sixth wave of Covid infections. Cree health authorities reported 623 active cases April 11, nearly a 70% increase over the previous two weeks. The number of hospitalizations had climbed to 41. Flooding from the Albany River near the western James Bay coast forced residents of the neighbouring Kashechewan and Fort Albany First Nations from their homes in late April and early May.

A full evacuation began May 5 after vulnerable residents were displaced April 25 as a precautionary move. About 400 people were flown to Thunder Bay while the municipalities of Kapuskasing, Timmins and Cochrane also hosted evacuees. “People are worried about their Elders and the others in the community,” Kaschechewan Chief Gaius Wesley told CBC. “Of course, when they’re being displaced to other communities, that’s where the stress levels begin to rise, and people begin to get frustrated.” Annual evacuations are a regular occurrence for many residents of coastal communities when the spring ice breaks up. This year’s colder-than-average winter caused greater ice thickness, affecting the rivers flowing north. River surveillance conducted by Kashechewan flooding knowledge keepers prompted the First Nation to declare a state of emergency on April 13. Indigenous Services Canada organized evacuations with the assistance of the Canadian Armed Forces, and supported evacuees with accommodation, food, transportation, recreational activities and mental health services. Over half of Kashechewan’s 2,000 residents planned to wait out the flooding season through the “On the Land” ini-

tiative developed during the pandemic, which provides financial support and transportation to hunting camps on higher ground. By May 12, the flood risk had subsided. As communities and governments worked out logistics to return residents to their homes, leaders grew concerned about keeping Covid-19 from returning with evacuees in host communities. “We want to make sure that we’re doing this wisely and safely for the evacuees,” said Wilbert Wesley, emergency management services manager for Mushkegowuk Council. In 2019, Kashechewan reached a relocation plan with provincial and federal governments to eventually move the community off the floodplain.

In Brief

Pedestrian killed; man arrested on BDH An individual from Waskaganish was struck and killed near kilometre 108 of the Billy Diamond Highway May 9. A 29-year-old man, also from Waskaganish, was arrested following the incident. CBC News reported that the victim was transported to hospital but did not survive. The driver reportedly did not remain at the scene of the accident and was later arrested and released to appear in court facing undisclosed charges. The Sûreté du Québec told the CBC that they have not released the identity of the deceased, the person arrested nor the charges he will face. The highway was shut down in both directions for much of the day to facilitate an investigation of the scene.

www.nationnews.ca May 20, 2022

the Nation 9

Features

by Patrick Quinn, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Eeyou Istchee prepares for an eventful summer

Tourism r A

fter a hesitant return to in-person events last summer, Cree tourism is looking to bounce back from the pandemic this year. Across the region, numerous events will be back and there will be plenty of surprises to discover. After being effectively closed to outsiders the past two years, the tourism sector is gearing up for an eventful summer. The local industry will benefit from new provincial funding announced May 5, which will provide a total of $31 million to renew Regional Tourism

Partnership and Digital Transformation Agreements with Quebec’s 21 tourism associations over three years. “That’s funding for tourism businesses that we manage and coordinate,” explained Robin McGinley, executive director of Cree Outfitting and Tourism Association (COTA). “Eeyou Istchee funding has been renewed for four years, which is great. An amount of $5 million has been set aside for promising group projects – we could always partner and submit a project.”

10 the Nation May April20, 22,2022 2022 www.nationnews.ca www.nationnews.ca

One of the larger events, Chisasibi’s powwow, will take place July 1-3 on Riverside Drive near the band office. Vendors are welcome but must register before June 28 via organizer Nellie Bobbish’s email: nelliebobbish@chisasibi.ca. “We’re trying to keep it more local but last year we did our powwow with everyone from the region and that turned out pretty well,” Bobbish told the Nation. “Last year, we stopped vendors and dancers coming from the Ontario side, but we’re welcoming everybody

Photos provided by Quinn by Patrick Bernd Roemmelt PhotosPhoto by Annie-Claude Roberge

rebounds thisby year. anxious see everypandemic, it drew tourists from near BenWe’re Powless, Localto Journalism Initiative Reporter | Photos provided by Greenpeace one again.” and far, including dancers from New Black Bear Singers, a drum group Mexico. Bobbish says arts and crafts hen the Cree Nation recent- seeking to bring our voices together from the Atikamekw community of vendors areforward alreadythat registering. ly established a permaand bring pressure and Manawan, will be “host drum” while “Another event I’m nent forum with the Inuit that support as nationsworking to fighton foris Chisasibi’s Gabriel Herodier will emcee. having the fair again this summer,” of Nunavik and the Naskapis of what we need.” Gerald Chum and Clarence Tomatuk, noted. “We had five rides last Nuchimiyuschiiy to collaborate on Bobbish Quebec’s so-called “indepenboth from Moose Creea key Firstissue Nation, turned regarding out well, but common challenges, was year, dent which commission” the we’re fate arecaribou arena director and head veteran, still trying to confirm which rides will management. of woodland and mountain caribou respectively. The head dancers willcaribe be comingtoup. Lastbeen year,the thelast rides were “Our relationships with the appears have straw Eastmain’s and Christie Tomatuk. lockdowns in the bou are Justin quite similar culturally,” said available for First because Nations ofand environmenGrand Chiefpowwow Mandy Gull-Masty, addtalists. Headed by forest economics Chisasibi’s is the biggest in south.” ing Istchee. that all three nations believe the expert consultations Eeyou One year it was named The Nancy fair willGélinas, likely happen in late file inshould be better are gauging on only two thecaribou third best Canada. Before manthe July. Another opinions event will celebrate aged by Quebec and Canada. “We’re proposed scenarios – one which may

restore habitat while threatening forCommunity-owned estry jobs and a second in which Wiinipaakw Tours forestry would continue unabated. “This commission is a ploy remains a great that legitimizes the Government of wayinaction to explore Quebec’s in protecting and restoring their habitat,” Jamescaribou Bay’sandbeautiful according to the Assembly of First waters. Nations Quebec-Labrador (AFNQL). “The preservation of precarious jobs is proposed at the expense of a species of cultural importance.”

www.nationnews.ca www.nationnews.caMay May20, 6, 2022 the Nation 11

“Last year, we stopped vendors and dancers coming from the Ontario side, but we’re welcoming everybody this year” - Nellie Bobbish, Organizer, Chisasibi

the 41st anniversay of Chisasibi’s founding August 18. The 34th annual Mamoweedow Minshtuk Gathering on Fort George Island will happen July 15-24 with traditional games, dancing and other fun events. While Wemindji said it won’t have a powwow this year, other Cree communities are planning events that may happen in August or September. Charlie Ottereyes suggested the Waswanipi powwow may take place in September.

12 the Nation May April20, 22,2022 2022 www.nationnews.ca www.nationnews.ca

“We don’t know for sure we can do it or not, so it is difficult to plan right now,” said Mistissini organizer Luke MacLeod. “Likely it will happen, but I don’t know if it’s going to be local or just the Cree Nation. We usually have it the second or third week of August so if we do anything it will be around then.” For those interested in following the powwow trail, the “Land Back” powwow in Kanesatake will kick off the season May 28-29. Other popular

powwows include Pikogan June 10, Wendake July 1-3, and Pessamit July 29-31. As the season progresses, there will be hockey tournaments, fishing derbies and other events to announce. Ouje-Bougoumou’s derby is scheduled for July 22-24 with over $60,000 in cash and prizes. Registration is $750 per team with up to three people aged 16 and over allowed per boat. COTA kept busy through the pandemic by modernizing its website

and simplifying online booking of tour packages. Meanwhile, some team members studied the Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue’s microprogram in Indigenous tourism management while four local artists received visitor experience training. McGinley said COTA is planning an in-person conference and AGM for September 6-8 in Mistissini. Although lingering pandemic uncertainty reduced coordination for community

events like powwows, there is still an array of tourist destinations. Community-owned Wiinipaakw Tours remains a great way to explore James Bay’s beautiful waters. Certified Cree captains lead ecotourism cruises and guided island hikes where visitors may catch a peek of beluga whales, caribou or even polar bears. They also offer a summer special for community residents. The pilot project for custom designed Creetopia “glamping” tents

www.nationnews.ca www.nationnews.ca April May 20, 22, 2022 the Nation 13

The Eeyou Istchee Baie-James Travel website is promoting new get-away packages 14 the Nation May 20, 2022 www.nationnews.ca

at Kilometre 48 will begin receiving visitors this August. Inspired by Cree culture and including a shower-equipped bathroom and fireplace, these luxury tents will eventually be installed throughout Eeyou Istchee. Along with options for fishing enthusiasts, the Eeyou Istchee BaieJames Travel website is promoting new get-away packages. “Cree and Jamesian Flavors” includes one night at Hôtel Chibougamau, a guided tour of the Aanischaaukamikw Cree Cultural

Institute, a guided forest excursion at FaunENord and a tasting tour at the Maître Renard microbrewery. Mistissini’s Nibiischii Corporation operates Quebec’s two largest wildlife reserves. Their Mwakw floating cabin is a quick canoe ride from a hiking trail on magnificent Lake Waconichi while the Chalet Amisk is even more secluded on Lake Robineau. Both offer basic amenities, boats and “Coolbox”-type accommodation.

“There aren’t many packages now but eventually we’d structure them so there may be charter flights, perhaps an inland and coastal package,” McGinley said. “We can start funnelling people into group tours like in Cuba. We try to have people come when the packages are scheduled so we can plan activities with the artists and local people that can enrich the experience.”

www.nationnews.ca May 20, 2022

the Nation 15

n i k s he

Tf the bear

16 the Nation

Kitcisakik to finally be connected to electric grid after decades of hydro exploitation

by Patrick Quinn, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

fter fighting for more than 50 years to bring electricity to its community, the Algonquin community of Kitcisakik is celebrating an agreement with Hydro-Québec that will connect it to the provincial hydroelectric grid in three or four years. “Today’s announcement is a historic one!” stated Chief Régis Penosway. “In addition to improving the quality of life of each individual, the electrification of Kitcisakik’s buildings will impact the environment and the community’s economic development. I am very proud of our participation in the project and of the work we have accomplished.” The project is called Animiki Ickote, the Anishinaabe words for thunder and fire, which combined translate as electricity. In collaboration with Kitcisakik, Hydro-Québec is assembling a technical committee to plan construction of a 70-kilometre to the community. Quebec’s Indigenous Affairs Ministry and Indigenous Services Canada will pay to adapt homes and community buildings to the new power supply. Hydro-Québec will assume the transmission line’s design, construction and maintenance costs. “We say when you build a dam in James Bay, you work 24 hours a day – you should do the same for us,” said Jimmy Papatie, Kitcisakik’s infrastructure and natural resources director. “It’s a new day for our community.” Though the community is located along the Dozois Reservoir, which supplies Hydro-Québec generating stations, the use of Kitcisakik hydro resources to power the province didn’t prompt the government to run the short transmission line to the community. After years of campaigning against the crown corporation, recent projects to export electricity to the northeastern US, Kitcisakik joined an AnishinaabeAtikamekw-Innu coalition that forced Hydro-Québec to the negotiating table. Promoting a choice of “reparation or confrontation”, the coalition denounced the export of energy “stolen” from First Nations who “live in a state of poverty

comparable to third world countries.” Penosway lamented that the corporation had “sold the skin of the bear before killing it.” “We campaigned almost two years and New York decided not to buy unless Hydro-Québec got agreements with the communities,” Papatie told the Nation. “We told media in the States they’re going to build infrastructure on land that’s not even ceded. The coalition put so much pressure on Hydro-Québec that it changed its strategy and decided to come meet us.” Having never accepted federal reserve status, the First Nation’s nearly 400 residents have long felt like squatters on their own land. The Quebec government flooded their old village in 1948, burying traplines and their cemetery under water and forcing them to relocate to their current location. With three huge Hydro-Québec reservoirs on traditional Kitcisakik territory, seasonal flooding resulted in further community displacements, loss of cultural practices, periods of famine and cancer-causing mercury in the food chain. While diesel generators currently power necessary services, the community is eager to move beyond its oil dependency. “When all the generators start in the summer, you can smell the pollution in the air and hear the noise,” said Papatie. “It’s very stressful for all of us to get our gas every day, fill up our generators and start them. For a single mother who doesn’t have enough money to buy a generator and not enough to heat her house with wood, this is going to help a lot.” Besides costing the community an estimated $1.5 million annually for fuel, generator limitations cause school shutdowns and restricts other activities. Relying on candlelight during the winter creates significant safety concerns, including a risk of house fires. “We’re losing so much food in the summer,” Papatie added. “We’re already preparing for this transition, providing information for our people

how this power and the bills work. We’re also preparing ourselves to start negotiating for a new village with all the infrastructure we’re going to need.” Papatie said discussions are progressing well with federal and provincial governments to establish a new village near Barker Bay about 17km north. Although this move is at least a decade away, community leaders already have ideas for attracting business from nearby Val-d’Or along Highway 117. “We’re going to use all the facilities we have now to start our economy,” Papatie explained. “The power will continue even to our next village. If we build there, we can build our own solar system, everything we need.” Kitcisakik’s present land doesn’t enable significant construction, expansion or infrastructure, causing a lack of running water. Residents fetch drinking water from a central pumping station, where there is a block of communal showers, toilets and washing machines. After recording 27 Covid cases during the recent Omicron wave, the toilet block had to be closed for a month while a health team delivered water to vulnerable community members. In a viral video providing a glimpse of Kitcisakik’s daily challenges, Papatie can be seen taking an outdoor shower using a water tank installed on the back of a pickup truck. “Half of the camping grounds in Quebec are better equipped than Kitcisakik – and they’re only open six months a year,” commented Ghislain Picard, regional chief of the Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador. Papatie said some community members were in tears when they heard the news while others still cannot believe it’s happening. “Kitcisakik will always be grateful for the help we got from other nations, including the Cree Nation,” said Papatie. “We know former Grand Chief Abel Bosum spoke to Hydro-Québec about our situation. Sometimes we felt so alone, but now we see we’re no longer alone.”

www.nationnews.ca May 20, 2022

the Nation 17

18 the Nation March 11, 2022 www.nationnews.ca

July 13, 2022

is the last day to submit a claim Its free, confidential and supports are available for you For information or legal support visit: indiandayschools.com or call 1-844-539-3815 Hope for Wellness Help Line: 1-855-242-3310

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Community

Making milk affordable Eeyou Istchee moves closer to regulating milk prices by Ben Powless, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

eyou Istchee is moving toward the minimum and maximum prices on milk that the rest of Quebec already enjoys. The initiative from the Cree Nation Government’s Social and Cultural Development department and the Cree Health Board responds to recent price hikes that reduce the affordability of nutritious foods. Most of the province is subject to regulated milk prices under the Régie des marchés agricoles et alimentaires du Québec (RMAAQ). As of December 1, Waswanipi, Oujé-Bougoumou and Mistissini are included in the legislation. Milk prices are currently highest in the Magdalen Islands and on the Lower North Shore. Prices are then highest in Cree communities and neighbouring areas across Abitibi-Temiscamingue. A 2017 letter to the RMAAQ from former Grand Chief Matthew Coon Come and then-Health Board chairperson Bella Petawabano noted average milk prices in Eeyou Istchee were two dollars higher than elsewhere. They added that many Cree families consume ultra-high temperature milk, such as Grand Pré, which uses a pasteurization process that gives a longer shelf life. However, UHT milk is not covered by milk pricing laws. CNG Social and Cultural Development Director Rodney Mark said representations to the RMAAQ led to the ruling to include Ouje-Bougoumou, Mistissini and Waswanipi in the regulated pricing system. It is up to each of the three communities to accept the decision, Mark noted.

Waskaganish (above) vs Montreal (left)

“Whether the communities accept or not, the idea is that after they have made their decision, we would explore the idea of having a Cree Nation approach. The other six communities – the coastal ones and Nemaska – aren’t included because of distance and transportation costs,” he explained. “The next stage is to make an argument for all communities, for the CNG to argue for their own region.” Mark is unsure how milk prices would change, or who subsidize transportation and retail costs. Ironically, Whapmagoostui already has the lowest milk price in the region, because it is subsidized by the Nutritious North Canada Program that other communities are ineligible for. The milk industry objected to including Cree communities in the RMAAQ because of transportation costs, Mark observed. With only 20,000 people, Mark argued the Cree population isn’t a “huge dent” to the industry. After Goose Break, he plans presentations to Cree communities about how the law could be applied and implemented, and he hopes to get things moving within the next few months.

20 the Nation May 20, 2022 www.nationnews.ca

A 2016 CHB report said prices across Eeyou Istchee for a standard “Nutritious Food Basket” were the highest in the province and were 30% higher than nearby Jamesie and 40% higher than Montreal. Within Eeyou Istchee, Eastmain was identified as the most expensive for groceries. “Purchasing basic nutritious foods represent a great proportion of the income of single-parent families and low-income families. Eating well seems to be out of reach for low-income families. This is of great concern, especially since about a quarter of the families of Eeyou Istchee live with a low income,” the report pointed out. “Milk is a basic nutritious food item that should be available and affordable to all families throughout Eeyou Istchee,” insisted Chantal VinetLanouette, a public health nutritionist with the CHB and an author of the study. “It is good source of protein, calcium and vitamin D, and generally easily accessible. In Quebec, RMAAQ regulates the minimum and maximum price of milk, and we hope that by including Cree communities, milk can be affordable for families.”

Claim what’s yours. Join the more than 130,000 others who attended a Federal Indian Day School and have applied for compensation.

July 13, 2022 is the last day you are able to submit a claim. It’s free and confidential. For information or legal support visit: indiandayschools.com or call 1-844-539-3815 Hope for Wellness Help Line: 1-855-242-3310

Business

Indigenous ownership grows

CEO and President Keith Martel

First Nations Bank CEO discusses the heated housing market by Ben Powless, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

he First Nations Bank of Canada (FNBC) welcomed a new investor and a new slate on its board of directors in April. The bank announced that Ermineskin Cree Nation’s Neyaskweyahk Group of Companies Inc. (NGCI) bought an 18% share in the institution, increasing Indigenous ownership in the bank to 87%. “We are excited and most proud of this venture as it sets out to promote economic opportunity for Ermineskin Cree Nation. With this opportunity comes greater success for sustainability and growth,” said Chief Randy Ermineskin. The bank, founded in 1996, originally had only two investors, TD Bank and Saskatchewan Indian Equity Foundation Inc. By 2009, the bank had issued new shares to Indigenous communities and organizations that diluted TD’s shares and ensured the bank was majority Indigenous-owned. FNBC also announced the appointment of four new members to its board of directors, including Rod Hick, Brenda LaRose, Danika Littlechild and Perry Bellegarde, the former National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations. “We would like to thank Mark Wedge and Ken Toner, who are retiring from the board, for their many years of guidance and advice which has been instrumental in the success of the Bank,” Bill Namagoose, Chair of the Board of Directors, said in a statement. Bank CEO and President Keith Martell said that the question of Indigenous ownership was important. “That’s our main focus. Our bank was created in 1996 to serve First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities which

were significantly underserved in markets we wanted to move into.” Martell said that initial discussions involved the James Bay Cree who saw a lot of similarities in terms of an underserved population. Matthew Coon Come joined the original board of directors, while Namagoose has served on the board since 2002. The new investment by Ermineskin’s NGCI gives the bank more capital that it can use to grow its deposit base and issue more loans, Martell said. The other way that the bank can earn capital is by earning income that it doesn’t pay out in dividends to investors. Martell said that the James Bay Eeyou Corporation owns nearly 13% of the bank, while the James Bay Board of Compensation owns about 6%. Some loans are in the form of mortgages. Asked about the current housing market, Martell said the decision to buy a home in current conditions is “a per-

22 the Nation May 20, 2022 www.nationnews.ca

sonal decision” even if some people say the market is “too hot.” He said the bank has been talking with Cree governments for years about the importance of home ownership because it “meets the housing need, and there’s never going to be enough government funding to meet all the demands, especially in prosperous communities like the Crees’.” Many First Nations communities have social housing, so people don’t have an equity stake in their home, and therefore can’t turn their house over to the next generation, use it as a vehicle for savings or access the equity in their homes. “That isn’t traditionally how it used to be,” Martell pointed out. “People used to build their own homes. Then it got to where homes are all owned by First Nations governments.” Since few people can afford to pay for their homes in cash, they often need a bank mortgage that depends on a per-

son’s debt service ratio. This essentially tells the bank if a person will be able to afford to make payments on all their debts with their current income. They also want to see that an individual can make an initial down payment. “We want people to succeed in paying for their home so we assess their employment and tell them if they can qualify for the loan,” Martell explained. “Typically, it was hard for people in First Nations to qualify for a loan. Part of the security for a mortgage is for the bank to take back the home, that wasn’t possible in many First Nations since land wasn’t owned by an individual.” That’s why Martell thinks the Cree communities have created a unique environment by allowing home ownership and transfer of land that doesn’t rely on the First Nation guaranteeing all the mortgages, which can create a huge risk for the community. “What the James Bay Cree are doing is creating one of the most advanced housing markets in Canada,” Martell added.

But it still comes down to a personal decision. “For most people in Canada, it’s the biggest financial decision you’re ever going to make,” Martell added. “There’s always going to be ups and downs with costs of labour and lumber, but the biggest factor is personal circumstances,” including whether someone has plans to remain in that community, their employment outlook, and whether they can pay back the mortgage. Asked about plans to expand beyond the three Cree communities the FNBC currently operates in, Martell said they are always willing to expand, and that they currently - have customers in nearly all the Cree communities. “We’ve had James Bay Cree communities be a big part of the bank for many years,” he said. “We have good relationships with many customers and shareholders. We enjoy doing business in the region. It’s good for the region and good for a bank like ours.”

“What the James Bay Cree are doing is creating one of the most advanced housing markets in Canada” - Keith Martel, CEO and President

www.nationnews.ca May 20, 2022

the Nation 23

Puzzles Crossword

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

PREVIOUS SOLUTION:

Solution to Crossword: C R A B

R O B E

I D E A

S E A N P A S C E R H I N E A R N A F C S T U D M O R E V I O P E N M I N G A C T S

P A G E O D I V M E V E P O L E A L E T N D P O D A N O S E R G S E P I A E N T S N T H W S E M A E N D E D C A T E E Y E D

STR8TS

No. 600

S A N G U I N E

A M U L E T

D E T A I D N R N I Y N O G G R E C L A R A I T N T O M T R U E I G R O S

9 1 4 2 3

8 8 9

8 7

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

2 7

N O L T E

G R E A T

A C H E

N E T S

Previous solution - Medium

3 2 1

S L E D

7 6 2 5 3 4 1 9 8

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

3 4 5 6

4 5 6 9 7 1 8

1 2 2 1

7 8 5 6 2 3 4 2 3

8 6 7 5 4

21 24

28 32

38 41

47 49

66 Nelson of early film musicals 67 Cash register supply DOWN 1 Health retreats 2 Curbside call 3 First step 4 Spring (from) 5 Tablet alternative 6 "Is that ___?" 7 Shoplift, slangily 8 Waste conduit 9 Neighbor of Slovenia 10 Opera text 11 Brainchild

12 13 21 23 25 26 27 29 30 33 34 35 37

3 1 7

Easy

7 5

2 7

8 6 4 9

Raven's haven Sloth's home Something to pull Chess piece Barracks boss Melee memento Race's ratesetter Insect-repelling oil Vacationer's quarters Spring mo. Corporate concern Exploding star One expelled from a country

7 1

9 1

2 5 6 4 1 3 7 8 9

6 2 8

5 7 6

41 Says again and again 42 Ran, as colors 43 Shakespearean genre 44 Ill at ___ 48 Milk option 50 Market segment 51 Trusty mount 52 Blue hue 53 Coffee holders 54 Bludgeon, in Britain 56 Alternative to steps 57 Church area 60 June honoree

Previous solution - Very Hard

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

24 the Nation May 20, 2022 www.nationnews.ca

No. 600

SUDOKU

Tough

D A T E

ACROSS 1 Excitement 5 Vehicles for hire 9 Country singer Black 14 Glazier's item 15 Cream additive 16 Rodeo contestant 17 Line on a graph 18 Farm equipment 19 Past plump 20 Ab exercises 22 Split up 24 Give an example 26 Burger flipper 28 Glinda, e.g. 31 Manx, for one 32 Sprouting 36 Kind of rock 38 Pinup's leg 39 Dog in "Beetle Bailey" 40 Resound 45 Gun, as an engine 46 Gross out 47 Healthy snack 49 Legal hunting period 52 Certify, as a college 55 Taxonomic categories 58 Sales rep's goal 59 Turn over 61 Plane wing part 62 Surprise win 63 Nail part 64 "Slam" anagram 65 Contents of some urns

by Margie E. Burke

7 8 9 2 6 5 1 3 4

3 1 4 7 9 8 2 6 5

4 3 7 9 5 2 6 1 8

8 2 5 6 7 1 4 9 3

9 6 1 8 3 4 5 7 2

6 7 2 3 4 9 8 5 1

5 4 3 1 8 6 9 2 7

1 9 8 5 2 7 3 4 6

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

Spring woes by Sonny Orr

’m driving my ATV on left-over ice and snow, crossing a creek and heading to the blind that I’ve frequented for the last few decades. The going is good with beautiful weather and one small mallard I managed to kill while waiting for the first geese to arrive. Facebook posts show plenty of harvesting just south of us and we are waiting for our turn up north. The afternoon sets in, and I head home with my lone duck after seven hours in the sun and south wind. A few hours later I head back for an evening of hunting and lo and behold the ice and snow has disappeared into the creek below. Luckily, I don’t have the guts to get stuck in deep slush and rushing water. I hang around to see if things improve and the setting sun sends me home earlier than usual. The main access road is overflowing with flooding creeks at nearly every small bridge, and I wonder if the road will last. In the morning, I take some time off to get some liquid gold – yes, gasoline. This takes a little time as I carefully dole out gas into my empty ATV and spare gas tank. Thankfully, I had enough cash left over to buy a drink and a chocolate bar for nourishment – just in case I get stranded by washed-away roadways that you would need a kayak to cross. The following hour as I get ready to leave, I hear on the radio news hotline that the road is now impassible. So, I don’t get to do much except take a home Covid test just in case I have to isolate during the best time to go hunting, being

With the annual exodus of people heading to camp, or out hunting for the day – and with the isolators nowhere to be seen – the town seems like a boom town gone bust

nourished only on store-bought food and movie streaming. The test’s single line tells me that I’ve overthought this situation. But then some family members end up testing positive, leaving me and my daughter behind. Without access to the outside, however, shopping is out of the question. What to do? Maybe just relax, do nothing and wait for roads to reopen so I can go out again. Meanwhile, with the annual exodus of people heading to camp, or out hunting for the day – and with the isolators nowhere to be seen – the town seems like a boom town gone bust. The only thing missing is the tumbleweed blowing down the empty streets. Discarded face masks make up for this illusion. Eerily, the day seems gloomy and sad, despite the sun being bright and shiny. Maybe it’s the idea of being indoors when it’s the best time to get outside. As the strong south winds rattle the old-school antennas on my roof, some as old as three decades, I can see the evolu-

tion of how much time we spent indoors. There’s the first antenna, which only had two channels, one of which we could understand, and then a bigger antenna for the other channels higher than 13 on the dial. Plus, two older satellite TV systems and more recently, a cable that still works. An addition of satellite internet from two decades of service to become obsolete with the final dish gleaming brightly on my rooftop. At least something looks nice today. Finally, after a 15-minute wait for my negative result, the whole world passed by in a flash compressed into the last two years of basically the same routine: check the pandemic’s daily results and wonder when your name gets added. I have the constant washing of my hands as part of my daily habits, just like brushing my teeth. One day, spring will come back without a hitch and some solid roads to drive on without fear of being washed away into the nearest ditch.

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 May 20, 2022

the Nation 25

Bannock & Scary, but beautiful

Tea

by Maïtée Labrecque-Saganash

hen I was younger, my mother told me how she finds it crazy that many people don’t know the stars and constellations although we see them every night. That resonated with me, and it lingered in my mind, making me want to read the night sky like my ancestors did. Since I was a child, I’ve found deep space to be equally fascinating and terrifying. I watched the launch and unfolding of the James Webb Space Telescope earlier this year with tears in my eyes; it’s about the size of a tennis court and has a light-collecting area of 25 square metres. The project was years in the making and hasn’t disappointed astronomy fans. The largest telescope to be launched into space is now starting to send back some of the clearest images of the cosmos. With its infrared captors, it will be able to collect data from proto-galaxies for us to be able to study some of the earliest moments of the universe. We’re in for 20 years of awe-inspiring views of space and that’s incredibly exciting. Back in 2019, the team behind the Event Horizon Telescope project gave us the very first image of a supermassive black hole. Well, technically, what’s visible is the friction created by the accretion of gas and dust around the black hole, but you get what I mean. Recently, they’ve done it again and shared with us an image of Sagittarius A, the black hole at the centre of our galaxy, the Milky Way. Even though I find super-

massive black holes to be really cool, knowing that some of them move through the universe while ejecting deadly gamma rays keeps me in a constant state of anxiety. But Sagittarius A was described to us as a “gentle giant” despite it being 4.3 million times the mass of our Sun. It’s in a relatively quiet state; the head scientists of the project compared Sag A to a human who would eat only a grain of rice every million of years. That was enough to alleviate the sheer terror I was feeling looking through their presentation and to be at peace with what’s hanging around

the centre of the Milky Way and every other galaxy. Our Cree ancestors would refer to the Milky Way as cîpay meskeno, the ghost trail, theorizing that the part of our galaxy visible from Earth was the physical proof of all the departed souls going back to the stars. This belief somehow makes me feel at peace with not only death but also the fact that I’m a mere cluster of particles orbiting around a supermassive black hole in this vast universe. Being alive at a time where traditional beliefs and astrophysical discoveries can coexist is mind -blowing.

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26 the Nation May 20, 2022 www.nationnews.ca

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REACHING 384,000 OF READERS ACROSS ALL ENGLISH QUEBEC COMMUNIT Y NEWSPAPERS REACHING 384,000 OF READERS ACROSS ALL ENGLISH QUEBEC COMMUNIT Y NEWSPAPERS

WHY THIS COMMUNITY WHY THIS COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER MATTERS: NEWSPAPER MATTERS:

Small but Small but mighty papers mighty papers deliver impact deliver impact journalism journalism BY RUBY IRENE PRATKA BY RUBY IRENE PRATKA

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