The Nation | Vol. 31, No. 02 by nationmag

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Looking after our Women and Girls in Eeyou Istchee

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CONTENTS EDITORIAL

10 Seeking Eelgrass answers Research project uses traditional ecological knowledge

Different approach to this year’s Cree Nation AGA

18 Christmas gifts

Community

Buffy’s outing

Diamonds aren’t forever

Closing the door

NEWS

BRIEFS FEATURES

‘TEK’-nology

Café-style engagement

Annual Christmas Gift Guide 2023 18 Culturally Relevant Education

PUZZLES REZ NOTES Fruitcake season

UTNS

22 24 25

The parallels of 26 colonialism

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Editorial

Buffy’s outing by Will Nicholls

here is sadness and outrage among some in the Indigenous world over the revelations that Buffy SainteMarie isn’t of genetic Indigenous descent. While one biographer wrote that she was a product of the infamous Sixties Scoop, a birth certificate made public recently by the CBC’s Fifth Estate program claims otherwise. The evidence is damning to her reputation. More problematic is what is will it do to all the good work she has done and is still doing. She has been an icon for Indigenous Peoples. Her songs and work have helped to make non-Indigenous people question the ways they have thought about the First Nations in the Americas. Watching the Fifth Estate episode was difficult, both to understand her need to be seen as Indigenous and what was missing… the desire to be Indigenous and make their ways acceptable to mainstream society. She has done amazing things for the Indigenous world. Those who are upset with her say that she stole the opportunities that an Indigenous person could have had. That claim – that another person would have achieved what Buffy did both in music and good works – is simply impossible to prove or support. Especially during a time when cowboys wore white hats and Indians were seen as savages, one can wonder if someone else would have made the same impact. Indeed, these revelations about her genetic ancestry are far from new. Her uncle said it in 1964 and her brother repeated it in 1971 and 1975, both sending letters to the media.

As Indigenous Peoples, with a right to self-determination, we have a right to choose those who are our citizens

It is only now, in the age of self-appointed moral wannabe representatives – most of whom are white – that this is acceptable. Really, after decades of ignoring the evidence, we suddenly find the courage to attack a woman who is in her 80s, who doesn’t have many more years left, based on a highly questionable example of investigative journalism. According to the report, the claim that Sainte-Marie had to Indigenous identity was her adoption in 1964 (at age 23) by Emile Piapot, the youngest son to the chief of the Piapot Cree reserve in Saskatchewan, and his wife Clara Starblanket Piapot. Buffy’s naysayers are saying two things: the adoption was just for the family, and it was honourary. Let’s address that. When my mother was born her mother didn’t have enough milk for her. Another woman who assisted in the birth was still breastfeeding and helped to feed my mother. When she would see my mom in the community she would always ask, “How are you, my

daughter?” The men who sang and beat the drum during her birth always considered themselves her uncles. Ideas of family and connections are not always linked to blood relations. It is incredibly hurtful to those who have been adopted, in whatever fashion, to say that they are not real members of the family. Indeed, the great-granddaughter of Sainte-Marie’s adoptive parents, Ntawnis Piapot, denounced the report and the resulting uproar. “It’s hurtful, it’s ignorant, it’s colonial, and quite frankly, it’s racist,” Piapot said. In there lies Buffy Sainte-Marie’s truth. As Indigenous Peoples, with a right to self-determination, we have a right to choose those who are our citizens. Every nation in the world does so and as First Nations we need to go beyond colonial laws. In the past many people adopted others into their culture regardless of age, race, gender or sexual orientation. Buffy Sainte-Marie is a member of Piapot First Nation. Period.

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, X. Kataquapit, P. Quinn, S. Hossain, J. Janke, A. Nambiar DESIGN Matthew Dessner SALES AND ADVERTISING Danielle Valade, Donna Malthouse THANKS TO: Air Creebec CONTACT US: The Nation News, 918-4200 St. Laurent, Montreal, QC., H2W 2R2 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

the Nation November 17, 2023 www.nationnews.ca

CMCA AUDITED

Editorial News

by Sakib Hossain Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Diamonds aren’t forever Quebec mine suspends operations as company files for creditor protection by Sakib Hossain uebec’s diamond industry faces a major setback as Stornoway Diamonds suspends operations at its Renard mine, located about 250 kms north of Mistissini. The Montrealbased diamond company, a leader in the Canadian market, is facing an abrupt decline in global diamond prices over the past 18 months. The suspension of operations at the only diamond mine in Quebec comes after Stornoway put itself under the protection of the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act to restructure its business and stabilize its finances. Of Stornoway’s 500 employees at the Renard site, only 75 will remain to maintain the mine’s assets and prepare for a potential resumption of regular activities. Since March 2022, the price of rough diamonds – unpolished and uncut stones – has dropped by nearly a third. This decrease is largely attributed to post-pan-

demic consumers showing restraint when it comes to luxury goods. Quebec Economy Minister Pierre Fitzgibbon said he was not surprised by this development, considering the volatility in diamond prices. The Quebec government holds a 35% share in Stornoway Diamonds and has a debt of $175.7 million through Investissement Québec. When asked whether the government could participate financially in the recovery plan, Fitzgibbon replied, “No,” suggesting that the mine’s future is uncertain. The Renard mine’s suspension is reverberating in the financial sector. The Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec stated that Stornoway made “the necessary decisions” and will allow the legal process to unfold without further comment. Stornoway is exploring investment and sale options. Analysts are concerned about the impact on shareholders. Osisko Gold Royalty, a major shareholder, faces nega-

tive repercussions, as analysts anticipated that the Renard mine would contribute to 10% of Osisko’s revenues in 2024. The Renard mine began operations in 2016 in Eeyou Istchee as Quebec’s inaugural diamond mine. This is not the first time Stornoway encountered financial difficulties. In 2019, it underwent a share capital restructuring that resulted in substantial losses for small shareholders. Additionally, the mine temporarily halted operations at the onset of the pandemic, from April to September 2020. As Stornoway begins its financial restructuring, the future of the Renard mine remains unclear. The resilience of the company and its ability to respond to the dynamic diamond market will play a pivotal role in determining its future success. The hope is that Stornoway can navigate these difficulties and emerge stronger in the evolving diamond industry.

www.nationnews.ca November 17, 2023

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Closing the door

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WE GIVE

A VOICE TO THE

CREE NATION

the Nation November 17, 2023 www.nationnews.ca

by Joshua Janke

roposed tuition increases for out-of-province students attending post-secondary Quebec institutions are raising tensions this school year. People from all walks of life have come together to protest the Quebec government’s announcement that tuition will almost double, from $9,000 per year to $17,000, for Canadian students from other provinces. International students would have to pay over $20,000 if the change is implemented. Hundreds chanting slogans and hoisting signs marched through downtown Montreal in early November to protest the revenue grab that the CAQ government said would be used to strengthen French-language institutions. Even Quebec residents and current out-of-province students who would not be affected are worried that it would weaken English-language institutions and deliver a clear message to friends and family from outside the province: “You are not welcome here.” “To be told that we’re not doing enough to protect the French language and essentially we don’t belong here breaks my heart,” said Kendra Buchner, a Bishop’s University student whose sign said, in French, “I love Quebec, but it doesn’t love me.” McGill, Concordia, and Bishop’s universities have called for a cancellation of these proposed tuition hikes. McGill Principal Deep Saini wrote in a statement that the measures announced would threaten to change Quebec university culture by creating a shift in overall student body and experience. “Our reputation stems from our people – the incredible students, faculty and administrative and support staff who make up the diverse community that is McGill,” Saini insisted. Saini said students from outside of Quebec have much to share with the city and province. “We are stronger when our doors are open – when we attract the brightest minds from Canada and the world, enticing and equipping them to build fulfilling, productive lives here,” he wrote in conclusion.

Proposed tuition hikes aimed at out-of-province students spark protests

Marianne Stenbaek, a tenured Cultural Studies professor at McGill, says that the government’s proposal reveals a lack of understanding of student needs, something that will decrease the future growth of Quebec and Canadian society. “It shows that the ministers of Quebec have no idea what $10,000 or $20,000 means to students, especially those who has left their home province or country to pursue higher education in Quebec,” Stenbaek told The Nation. Anglophones and francophones should have equal academic and monetary opportunities she states, because “out-of-province students benefit Quebec institutions just as much as provincial residents do.” She condemned Legault’s fears that these students are a danger to Quebec culture and the French language by applauding her many out-of-province students for their concrete contributions to Quebec society. “All students do not have rich parents and many self-sustaining students work two or three jobs just to afford the current cost of tuition costs, textbooks, and Mac & Cheese,” Stenbaek said. “While they are here, they contribute to the Quebec economy and culture. If they do leave Quebec after all this, they will simply become ambassadors for Montreal and Quebec culture in their home provinces and countries and encourage others to come experience it for themselves.” Charles Doyon Barrieau is a Quebecborn student who says that tuition hikes negatively affect all students, not just those from elsewhere. By preventing all

but the wealthiest out-of-province students from attending, Barrieau fears university classrooms would become less diverse and educative. “I think we can learn so much from people from different backgrounds,” he said. At Bishop’s, nearly 30% of the students are from outside of Quebec. Doubling tuition fees would have a “catastrophic” impact on both university financing and campus-classroom culture, according to Sébastien Lebel-Grenier, Bishop’s rector and vice-chancellor. Assistant Professor Ananya Tina Banerjee and doctoral candidate Shashika Bandara from McGill University have also been outspoken in rejecting the Quebec government’s proposal. They say that the policy would perpetuate pervasive racial and economic injustices that are already prevalent in Quebec education institutions. “Both francophone and anglophone communities have vehemently opposed this plan by the Legault government, especially among students – the future of Quebec,” said Banerjee, pointing to how tuition increases target “already deeply vulnerable communities.” Bandara believes this policy would “contribute to a more dominant white, monolingual” province. “Century-old historical structural barriers to education that promote racism and classism already exist,” she said. And that “creates socio-economic difficulties for Indigenous and racialized students in Quebec.”

Bandara adds that targeting prospective out-of-province students and international students in English-language universities “deeply damages inclusive learning environments and risks promoting racism by limiting access to education. We must ask: Who this policy is serving and is it adding building blocks to maintain systemic racism in Quebec?” McGill’s Office of Indigenous Initiatives said that “it’s important to note the proposed tuition hikes are just that, a proposal. McGill remains committed to finding more effective ways to help the government achieve its goals of promoting and protecting the French language while reinvigorating Quebec’s university system.” The Office noted that Indigenous students from outside of Quebec who are currently enrolled in degree programs at McGill will not be affected by the changes outlined in the announcement and will have five years to complete their studies under the existing tuition fee structure. To date, an online petition against the tuition increases has been signed over 16,000 times. The petition, posted on the Assemblée nationale du Québec website, claims that the proposal would “contribute to the spread of elitism and classism in the university environment” and make studies “inaccessible to poorer individuals, increases student debt and forces them to work even more to finance their studies”. The deadline to sign the petition is November 23.

www.nationnews.ca November 17, 2023

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In Brief Hydro proposes massive expansion In collaboration with the community of Mistissini, Chiots Nordiques offered veterinary services to 120 dogs during an intensive 48-hour medical excursion over the first weekend of October. Hydro-Québec has released a 12-year plan to massively boost electricity generation. The company predicts that Quebec’s demand for electrical power will double by 2050, and they propose investing up to $185 billion to bolster production, increase reliability and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Hydro-Québec says 75% of the plan is directed towards decarbonizing the environment, while 25% targets economic growth. Anticipating a boom in home- and industrial-energy demands, the public utility intends to increase the power of existing stations and triple wind production by 2035. The plan would also renovate existing dams, construct new ones and add 5,000 kilometres of transmission lines. The venture foresees an average of 35,000 new employees per year. The proposal requires negotiations with First Nations leaders to approve the locations of new development sites. Hydro-Québec is key to the government’s plans to decarbonize Quebec by 2050.

Although the province is a leader in hydroelectric production, fossil fuels still constitute about half of its energy usage. The company’s scheme intends to replace natural gas and heating oil with electricity and encourages the growth of the electric automobile industry. When it comes to power outages, Hydro-Québec acknowledged the need for more dependable infrastructure. By burying power lines, using composite utility poles and other “innovative” practices, the company aims to reduce outages by 35% over the next seven to 10 years. The energy utility promises that public electricity rates will remain affordable. Critics, including Québec Solidaire co-spokesperson Gabriel Nadeau-Dubois, claim the plan lacks detail and transparency. Nadeau-Dubois questioned whether the business will be able to spend such a sizable budget over a dozen years without raising prices for customers.

Historic settlement In late October, the Federal Court approved a $23 billion settlement agreement for over 300,000 Indigenous children and family members who experienced racial discrimination from Ottawa’s chronic underfunding of Indigenous family services, including the

A 2019 ruling by the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal ordered Ottawa to pay the maximum human rights penalty for discrimination. This translated to $40,000 for each First Nations child and family member on-reserve foster-care system. The compensation settlement is the largest in Canadian history. The government also set aside a further $20 billion to reform the on-reserve child welfare system in the long term. This outcome is the result of a 15-year legal battle. In 2007, the Assembly of First Nations and the First Nations Child and Family Caring Society (FNCFC) jointly launched a human rights complaint. They alleged that Ottawa’s underfunding of on-reserve child welfare services blocked First Nations children from fair access to support. This pattern of inequity touched on topics such as school supplies and medical equipment. The discrimination claim set off a lengthy dispute with the federal government. In 2016, the tribunal found that First Nations peoples were denied services due to government involvement. They declared that the government’s services adversely impacted the First Nations community, especially in respect to children taken from their families.

Then, a 2019 ruling by the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal ordered Ottawa to pay the maximum human rights penalty for discrimination. This translated to $40,000 for each First Nations child and family member. The ruling was directed towards children wrongly removed from their homes starting from 2006, as well as their parents and grandparents. Consequently, the federal government fought two class-action lawsuits over the issue. Last year, Ottawa suggested spending $20 billion to reform the child welfare system, and $20 billion on compensation. The tribunal rejected the proposal, out of concern that not all eligible claimants would receive their compensation. Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister Gary Anandasangaree noted that the result is an important step toward reconciliation. However, Cindy Blackstock, the executive director of FNCFC, pointed out that First Nations children on reserves still face unequal healthcare access, and need more protection from the federal government. Nonetheless, Blackstock said she was “feeling encouraged that this might finally be some measure of justice for the many victims, children, youth and families of Canada’s discrimination.”

www.nationnews.ca November 17, 2023

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Features

‘TEK’-n 10

the Nation November 17, 2023 www.nationnews.ca

he Chisasibi Eeyou Resource and Research Centre (CERRI) was established in 2016 following the recommendation of the community’s Migratory Bird Habitat Task Force, but its roots can be traced back to George Lameboy’s decadeslong quest to prove why eelgrass was declining on his trapline. Great waves of geese once flocked to his coastal hunting ground 70 km north of Chisasibi, which attracted a thriving communal hunt every year. However, the birds became increasingly scarce after Hydro-Québec’s La Grande complex was constructed in 1975. The decline continued through the 1980s until eelgrass beds completely disappeared around 1991. Hydro-Québec, the only organization monitoring James Bay at the time, blamed various natural processes from isostatic rebound to ice action and wasting disease. Tiring of these excuses, Lameboy contacted specialists for a second opinion.

“I’m sitting there with Hydro eyeball to eyeball and they’re insisting it’s wasting disease,” recalled Lameboy. “This is where I got hold of Fred Short from the University of New Hampshire because Hydro was quoting his research. When I realized how complex the ecosystems are, I realized we need a research centre.” Dr. Short along with his postdoctoral research associate Dr. Dante Torio began spending summers in Chisasibi in 2016, determining how the hydroelectric dam has quantitatively changed the water. It was apparent that the dam has increased the water’s murkiness, proportion of freshwater and perhaps its temperature, no doubt impacting eelgrass, which requires light to photosynthesize and a certain salt concentration. From satellite images, Short’s team found that eelgrass had declined 75% along the east James Bay coast between 1975 and 2013. Besides hydroelectric activity, he

speculated that mine drainage, deforestation, algae growth, disease and climate change could be contributing factors. In 2019, Torio was hired to run the biology component of the research institute and moved into the community. Working with Lameboy and others “who know the land like the back of their hand,” they transformed his scientific approach from randomized sampling to analyzing specific areas that land users have been monitoring their whole lives. “One of the pillars of our approach is to have the traditional ecological knowledge [TEK] lead the research,” explained Torio. “We’re developing new indicators of assessing and monitoring environmental systems using two worldviews. TEK gives you that connection between ecosystems and their criteria for telling whether wildlife is in good quality.” Results are interpreted by reconciling TEK with scientific methods, such as measuring the inten-

nology Research project uses traditional ecological knowledge to seek eelgrass answers by Patrick Quinn | Local Journalism Initiative Reporter www.nationnews.ca November 17, 2023

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sity of light to demonstrate eelgrass was greener before. Torio once relied on published literature, but he found that it didn’t correspond with evidence from the traplines. Even common oceanography instruments don’t always represent realities documented by land users. “You have to have some patience and flexibility as a western researcher to come work with Cree,” Lameboy told the Nation. “I could tell there was something wrong with an instrument we were using, so any research you did in the past 10 years might have an error of 20%. In this case, TEK exceeded what that instrument could do.” With university researchers increasingly interested in collecting TEK, Lameboy asserted that they’re often following in CERRI’s footsteps. While supported by Chisasibi and other backers, CERRI lacks the level of funding wielded by these universities or the Niskamoon Corporation, which initiated the Coastal Habitat Comprehensive Research Program in 2014 alongside the Cree Nation Government and Hydro-Québec. Niskamoon’s project involves extensive coastal sampling stations, GPS tracking, aerial surveys and more to better understand changing goose distribution. Lameboy suggested Niskamoon’s influence has limited other coastal traplines from participating in CERRI’s research and he’s raised concerns over its relationship with Hydro-Québec. “I had no choice but to step on a few toes,” admitted Lameboy. “I thrive on those controversies – that makes life interesting! The main argument now with Niskamoon’s research is global warming. I would like to see proof that seven traplines out of 10 have lost eelgrass due to global warming.” Found from North Carolina to Alaska, eelgrass thrives in a warming climate and is normally resilient to environmental stressors, unless they’re persistent as in La Grande’s hydrology. Studies have focused on the effects of increased sediments and freshwater from the river entering James Bay, circulating water from south to north. At reference sites, observations are recorded, and are sent to other laboratories for analysis, Torio hopes CERRI’s 12

facilities can be expanded to conduct more robust testing. “We’re envisioning having in-house capacity for testing contaminants in the water or bush food so we can cater immediately to community needs,” said Torio. “We are starting a STEM program designed for local youth and squeezing in 26 kids will be a big challenge – we need our own lab.” The eelgrass decline means a loss of an important food source and part of the Cree way of life, reflected in the lost place names where people can no longer hunt. These repercussions have guided CERRI’s growth into plant propagation and even archaeology. Dozens of ancient waterfowl hunting sites have been investigated, including at least one dating from the pre-contact era. Lameboy said isostatic rebound is supporting oral history to help document Cree life from 500 years ago. At one location, Lameboy’s leveraging his lifelong hunting knowledge to deduce why baseball-sized rocks in a blind are still lined up from centuries ago. “I could take you there and show you which species and season they were hunting, and which direction was the wind,” said Lameboy. “The place names hold the language in place. Paraphrasing George Orwell, the most effective way to destroy a people is to obliterate their understanding of their own history.” While more definitive eelgrass answers will come after another two years of monitoring, they plan to release certain research within the next few months. A larger goal is to establish the next generation of researchers, including training youth from each of Chisasibi’s 40 traplines. “I would like the expertise to teach the youth,” said Lameboy. “They’ll run away with the research centre. That will be beautiful – I’m sure it will happen.”

the Nation November 17, 3, 2023 2023 www.nationnews.ca www.nationnews.ca

Niskamoon’s project involves extensive coastal sampling stations, GPS tracking, aerial surveys and more to better understand changing goose distribution

www.nationnews.ca www.nationnews.caNovember November17, 3, 2023

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Community consultations ᒥᔅᑎᓯᓃ MISTISSINI

November 20-29, 2023 The Commissioners Bella M. Petawabano and Lorraine Spencer are looking forward to seeing you!

ᒫᒦᓄᐱᑎᐦᑖᐤ maamiinupitihtaau

The Commission is a unique opportunity for Eeyou Istchee to come together, share ideas and make a positive diﬀerence on: Youth Protection Law and Youth Criminal Justice matters; Delivery of services; Collaboration with local and regional partners; Foster care for children, Group Homes and Youth Healing Services; and Cree ways of healing for children, youth and families. Let’s connect, bring insightful discussions and work together to create a brighter future for us all.

Our future is determined by how we protect, provide, care for and nurture our children.

PLEASE JOIN US!

For more information, visit:

creeyouthprotectioncommission.ca or contact us at:

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In collaboration with:

In light of Bill C-18, the Online News Act and the recent Canada-wide news block on FACEBOOK & META PLATFORMS

the Nation You may have noticed Bill C-18 has affected our ability to get the most important news from Eeyou Istchee to you on Facebook & Meta Platforms. While you might not see us on social media, you can always count on us being online at www.nationnews.ca or every two weeks in your community, as we have been since 1993. We want to thank our dedicated readers for continuing to read the print version of the Nation, and counting on us to keep you informed.

the Different approach to this year’s Cree Nation AGA by Patrick Quinn | Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

astmain hosted the Cree Nation’s Annual General Assembly October 24-25, which was postponed from August due to this summer’s disastrous forest fires. The AGA’s third day was cancelled out of respect for the family of Eastmain Chief Raymond Shanoush, whose mother had recently passed away. While road closures forced by the wildfires delayed necessary audits for financial statements found in the Cree Nation Government’s annual report and interrupted other community priorities, Grand Chief Mandy Gull-Masty found it advantageous to hold the AGA later in the year, following summer activities and the moose hunting season. “We did things a little differently this year,” Gull-Masty told the Nation. “We provided our standard reporting on day one, presenting the annual report and financial statements. Instead of having presentations from the entities, we wanted to be more engaging with more caféstyle feedback from the participants, so we hosted four workshops.” Delegates were grouped with members of their community to brainstorm questions like sharing protocols for moose harvests, the unique qualities of Eeyou governance and ways of improving relations between local governments and the CNG. The latter questions were intended to guide potential revisions to the Cree constitution, which was enacted in 2017 despite concerns that it lacked sufficient consensus.

While the Cree health and school boards had planned to deliver presentations on the AGA’s third day, it was agreed to instead co-host a special assembly with these entities in the spring. Ahead of its own AGA on November 3-4, the Cree Trappers’ Association discussed initiatives such as a community freezer project, its wildlife harvest database, changes to fur sales, a firearms course and medical bush kits. Asserting that the role of tallymen should be better understood and respected, it was explained that the term originated during the height of the fur trade when the number of beavers and lodges needed to be tallied. They should be consulted before hunting on their traplines because they’re aware of where animals are located and potential hazards to watch out for. This summer’s fires highlighted that a vast majority of hunters hadn’t secured cabin insurance for their bush camps. One of the AGA’s resolutions was to explore the feasibility of providing insurance coverage that responded to Eeyou Istchee’s realities. “I think it will be mandatory that you must have cabin insurance,” said GullMasty. “This year was a wake-up call that we have to not only have insured belongings out on the land but also plan for fire resiliency, protecting cabins with a fire barrier, ensuring there’s no growth near your cabin.” While it’s still unclear how much insurance premiums will rise after this year, a wider assessment is underway

the Nation November 17, 2023 www.nationnews.ca

alongside partners in regional government. Acknowledging that the extent of fires stretched SOPFEU far beyond their available firefighting resources, the Grand Chief maintained that the province’s pre-existing priorities were very different from those of the Cree Nation. “We felt SOPFEU didn’t always realize the value that Crees were putting on their infrastructure out in the bush,” said Gull-Masty. “This is something we’re raising with Quebec. We’ve asked each community to provide a report of their experiences. If those recommendations mean having a new regional forest fire service under the Crees, we’ll see what happens.” Another resolution was proposed by Mistissini Chief Michael Petawabano, studying whether the economic leakage represented by office rentals, hotels and travel could instead be redirected towards expanding and financially supporting local conference infrastructure throughout Eeyou Istchee. While initially a question for the CNG, they asked communities and large entities to also participate in the study to better represent the greater Cree economy. Although interested in the potential of recirculating currency within Cree communities, Gull-Masty suggested there’s sometimes a large gap in tourism facilities and other factors to consider. “I’m also interested in the secondary reasons,” Gull-Masty added. “People going down south for meetings are also going for doctor’s appointments or pur-

CAFÉ-STYLE ENGAGEMENT chasing school supplies or doing Christmas shopping. When you’re inviting people into the community, there has to be consistent food available, accommodations, access points to services like fuel.” Along similar lines, one resolution proposed studying the feasibility of developing an elite training institute for the Cree Nation Bears. Without a permanent home, athletes for the youth hockey team have to travel south for advanced programs. Not only is that far from their homes and culture but it’s been challenging finding a host community with billet homes and the appropriate academic programming. “What can we do to ensure we’re offering a high-level academic program that has sports incorporated into it?” asked Gull-Masty. “That’s a challenge because a lot of funding we receive for education doesn’t have specificities for those program structures.” Other resolutions asked the CNG to consider providing compensation for travel and lodging during special meetings and gatherings like the AGA and to evaluate how programs and services can be delivered more equitably to all community governments. The AGA also hosted the second annual Acts of Service medal awards, which recognize Cree Nation members who distinguished themselves with their accomplishments and dedication. Although the forest fires prevented a public nomination process, the Grand Chief, Deputy Grand Chief and Youth Grand Chief reviewed

many nominations to choose worthy recipients in three categories. George and Mary-Louise Pachano were honoured for their leading role in the investigation of former residential schools on Fort George Island and their many years organizing the annual gathering for survivors. Gull-Masty said they have been instrumental in guiding people through the healing process and “taking on the pain that a lot of these people are going through.” Tammy Petawabano’s 30 years of police service earned her one of the prestigious awards. Gull-Masty called her a role model who has broken many barriers and hoped her story will inspire more Cree to consider careers in policing. On the 10th anniversary of the journey of Nishiyuu, David Kawapit was honoured for leading that epic trek from Whapmagoostui to Ottawa at age 17 that began with seven walkers in the dead of winter before growing to hundreds. Seeking to inspire hope in Indigenous youth and bring attention to inequities, Kawapit said the idea came from a vision inspired by the hunger strike of Attawapiskat Chief Theresa Spence. “A wolf alone can be easily killed by [a bear], but with its brothers and sisters everywhere, it can call upon them and it can take down the bear with ease,” explained Kawapit, with the bear symbolizing the federal government and the wolf symbolizing First Nations. “We all need to stand together.”

“We wanted to be more engaging with more café-style feedback from the participants, so we hosted four workshops” - Grand Chief Mandy Gull-Masty

www.nationnews.ca November 17, 2023

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the Nation’s

Annual Christmas Gift Guide 2023 A Celebration of Indigenous Traditions by Sakib Hossain

s the snow blankets the land and the scent of freshly baked bannock fills the air, we find ourselves drawn to the heartwarming traditions of the holiday season. For the Cree people and many Indigenous communities, Christmas is not only a time of celebration but also a chance to embrace and share their rich cultural heritage. This year’s Christmas Gift Guide invites you

to explore a world of meaningful gifts, inspired by Indigenous traditions and the spirit of giving. The Christmas season brings a sense of magic and unity to Cree communities, a time filled with stories, dances and gatherings that connect generations. The exchange of heartfelt gifts is an integral part of these festivities. In our gift guide, we aim to honour these traditions and

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introduce you to unique presents that not only carry cultural significance but give back to Indigenous causes and support Indigenous entrepreneurs and their communities. Every gift has the power to keep traditions alive and create a brighter future for all. Explore these gifts on the respective websites and share the joy of the season.

Kokom Scrunchies was founded by Mya Beaudry, a talented Indigenous youth from Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First Nation when she was just nine years old. Since its launch in the fall of 2019, Kokom Scrunchies has operated as a family-run business, ensuring that all Kokom Scrunchies are handmade in Canada.

The original Kokom Scrunchies are named after role models in Mya’s life. They continue to honour other amazing individuals throughout the year by naming scrunchies after them. Kokom Scrunchies hopes to inspire others on their journey. What started off as an idea has taken Mya on a path of bringing Kokom Scrunchies to everyone, young and old.

FutureKokum

Beading Kit

FutureKokum is a brand rooted in the Opaswayak Cree Nation, specializing in designing handmade products using traditional beading methods. Their creations embody the essence of Indigenous traditions.

For the DIYers in your life, FutureKokum offers an exceptional beading kit that includes beads in five vibrant colours, two thread spools, 25 needles, four pieces of pleather, four pieces of felt, three pin back clasp brooches, and one glue tube. This kit provides all the essentials for starting your own beaded pin, allowing you to embark on a creative journey inspired by the rich traditions of Indigenous craftsmanship. Whether you’re a seasoned beader or a novice, this kit is a perfect way to explore the art of beading and create unique pieces of Indigenous-inspired jewelry.

Kokom Scrunchies

From the heart of this inspiring journey, the Winter Floral Scrunchie from Kokom Scrunchies embodies the essence of the holiday season. Handcrafted with care, this accessory is adorned with a delicate floral pattern that captures the spirit of winter. It’s not just a scrunchie; it’s a piece of Indigenous art that adds a touch of elegance to any hairstyle. Celebrate the season with a touch of Kokom Scrunchies’ creativity and cultural heritage.

Not your typical gifting service, Indigenous Box is a directto-consumer and business-to-business social-impact gifting service and retailer on a mission. They champion and help develop Indigenous businesses by strengthening Indigenous supply chains, collaborating with a growing list of over 300 Indigenous suppliers.

Indigenous Box -

Seasonal Subscription Box

Using their extensive network, Indigenous Box builds bridges between grassroots Indigenous businesses and corporate, non-profit and government buyers within Canada and beyond. Their impressive client list now boasts over 400 organizations, including universities, financial institutions, all levels of government and multinational organizations. Experience the Indigenous culture and entrepreneurial spirit through the Seasonal Discovery Box from Indigenous Box. This subscription box is where it all started for them, and it’s where your journey begins. Discover five to seven beautiful, meaningful and usable products sourced from Indigenous entrepreneurs each season. With each delivery, you support and celebrate the ingenuity, resourcefulness and purposefulness of Indigenous entrepreneurs.

www.nationnews.ca November 17, 2023

the Nation

SECTION 35

For centuries, Indigenous people have grappled with systemic oppression and a profound lack of representation. The founder and CEO of Resist Clothing Company, Mitch Gegwetch, an Ojibwe and a member of Sagamok First Nation, witnessed this inequity firsthand while attending rallies and awareness events in Toronto.

Sunrise Dip Dye Hoodie (Orange) Section 35 is a thriving Indigenous-owned streetwear brand, hailing from the Unceded Territories of the Xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and Sel̓íl̓witulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. The brand has been making waves since its launch in March 2016.

Elevate your style with the Sunrise Dip Dye Hoodie in vibrant orange from Section 35. This hoodie is more than just clothing; it’s a statement of purpose. Crafted from a 70/30 cottonpolyester blend fleece, it provides both comfort and warmth. With a fleece-lined hood, relaxed drop-fit shoulder, and 1x1 ribbed cuffing on the wrist and waist, it offers a relaxed, comfortable fit that stands out. The design is completed with a screen-printed emblem, showcasing not only your fashion sense but your support for a brand dedicated to Indigenous creativity and collaboration.

Sisters Sage Two-Spirit Soap

Sisters Sage is on a mission to create stunning Indigenousinspired products that not only celebrate our rich heritage but also champion environmental sustainability, all while igniting the sparks of future female and youth entrepreneurs. Committed to eco-conscious practices, their products align with a range of values that matter. They’re vegan, vegetarian and cruelty-free, ensuring their creations leave no negative impact on our planet. Embrace the Two-Spirit heritage with a product that pays tribute to this cherished Indigenous concept dating back many generations.

RESIST CLOTHING COMPANY Indigenous future Hoodie (unisex)

It was during one such event, donning a self-made shirt emblazoned with the powerful statement “F*CK Colonialism,” that he recognized a surging demand for such expressive apparel. People at gatherings would frequently inquire about the origin of his shirt, only to be astonished that he had crafted it at home. This eye-opening experience served as the spark that ignited Gegwetch’s journey into entrepreneurship. The gift that Resist Clothing Company presents is a declaration of hope. This isn’t just a garment; it’s a message that represents the resilience, strength and enduring spirit of Indigenous cultures. More than just clothing – it’s a symbol of

Cheekbone Beauty

Sustain Lipstick

For a gift idea, choose Cheekbone Beauty’s sustainably made lipstick, a product with a cause. Their lipsticks are not only ecofriendly but also support initiatives that empower Indigenous youth, allowing you to embrace beauty that makes a difference. 20

the Nation November 17, 2023 www.nationnews.ca

Ay Lelum

Neon Orange Transformation Dress Ay Lelum is a brand that creates wearable art garments embracing diversity and dedicated to sharing traditional Coast Salish art and culture with people from all walks of life. Their culturally appropriate clothing is designed with family artwork that is nonceremonial and all-inclusive for everyone. With a range of sizes, their ready-to-wear collection ensures that everyone can experience the elegance of West-Coast and Indigenous culture through their fashion. The Neon Orange Transformation Dress, a limited edition available by custom order, features artwork by Joel Good and earrings by Copper Canoe Woman.

Atikuss

Mukluk Amishk

Atikuss is a brand born from the desire of Josée Shushei Leblanc, an Innu and businesswoman, to champion Indigenous culture and ensure fair wages for women artisans. In an industry where women earned no more than $4 per hour, Leblanc was appalled by these conditions and initiated the Hopeboots project. Her goal was simple – help Indigenous women earn a decent livelihood from their artistic talents. The Mukluk Amishk is a classic mukluk entirely handcrafted in Canada and meticulously embroidered by Indigenous women who receive a fair wage. These mukluks are designed to keep your feet perfectly warm even in temperatures as low as -35°C. Crafted with cowhide leather boots, adorned with bead embroidery, featuring natural beaver fur from an eco-responsible hunt, and lined with natural sheep wool for ultimate comfort. The soles are constructed from natural rubber.

Half-Bads in White Regalia by Cody Caetano

A remarkable memoir that won the prestigious 2023 Indigenous Voices Award for Published Prose in English but was also longlisted for the 2023 Leacock Medal for Humour, Canada Reads 2023, and the 2023 Toronto Book Awards. This captivating narrative explores a family’s journey to learn from past generations, skillfully combining humour and wisdom to create a national bestseller. With a wholly original voice, Cody Caetano’s memoir offers a unique and compelling perspective on family dynamics and life’s lessons.

www.nationnews.ca November 17, 2023

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Community

Culturally relevant education Cree students carving new paths in Montreal by Patrick Quinn

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

n open house in Montreal hosted by the Cree School Board’s PostSecondary Student Services (PSSS) on October 27 showcased the increasingly diverse and vibrant Cree community studying in the city. Promoted as an opportunity to reconnect and celebrate together, students were encouraged to bring their partners and little ones, who enjoyed treats and activities in the spirit of Halloween. Culinary graduate Phoebe Blacksmith prepared a special buffalo stew for the event and estimated that over 100 people attended. “The students seemed happy this event was created for them, especially in the middle of the semester,” said Blacksmith. “It boosts them up. I think that’s something they’ll try to do more often. They can have a space they can feel more at home.” Originally from Mistissini, Blacksmith has studied culinary arts and nutrition, run her own restaurant and is currently studying at Algonquin College with plans to start a business in fitness and health promotion. Growing up in the city, she’s observed many changes in the Indigenous student experience since her first studies in the 1990s. “Currently, my sister is living with me,” said Blacksmith. “Coming from up North, housing is a big issue. Finding a place in the city with credit scores and things students don’t know about. An info session could be created on that.”

As Cree youth increasingly pursue higher education, the CSB and the institutions themselves are working to better prepare students for the transition away from their home communities. Angela Ottereyes, from Waskaganish, studies at Dawson College and works part-time at its First Peoples’ Centre, which has tripled in size in the last year while introducing new initiatives such as an ambitious moose butchering workshop on October 24. “We’re trying to bring in projects that are culturally land-based,” Ottereyes told the Nation. “Last year during reading week I went home and was able to spend a few days in the bush. Since there was no break this year, what if we brought a moose here and it will be our moose break?” Seeking to buy half a moose for her family, Ottereyes was happy that

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Dawson supported the idea and even provided the First Peoples’ Centre with a new freezer for meat storage. They worked with the Cree-Mohawk teepee in Kahnawake and William Coonishish, whose grandson Malick Duff is also a student at Dawson. Duff said it was amazing to connect through traditional activities and work with non-Indigenous people in the butchering. Tristan Beauregard, another Cree student from Waskaganish, was surprised to see moose heads in downtown Montreal and said the experience brought him “a little bit back home.” Coonishish and his friends had killed four moose in Gaspé. He showed students how to skin the moose, take the meat from the bones and cut the heads, which were donated to the Biology Department. Many Cree, Mohawk, Mi’kmaq, non-Indigenous students and

“Since there was no break this year, what if we brought a moose here and it will be our moose break?” - Angela Ottereyes

professors joined to learn Cree teachings and enjoy traditional food. “The Indigenization teacher sent his students to help us and earn a certificate point,” said Ottereyes. “They got their hands dirty and were really into it. One Mi’kmaq student was there from morning until it was done. She said it was like building a community – this is something new to her and she was really grateful.” Ottereyes said the next workshop will be moose hide tanning and has ideas for other activities, perhaps even a hunting trip. They’ve also organized goose harvesting activities the past two springs. While she originally had her sights on McGill University’s law program, she found working at the First Peoples’ Centre so rewarding that she’s now leaning towards a career in education. “It could be an example for other colleges in how they support their Indigenous students,” asserted Ottereyes. “I want to work with the Inuit, ask what foods they traditionally have, if they want to bring their teachings to the centre. We want it to be inclusive, so all nations feel their cultures are being taught.” Ottereyes started at Dawson through their one-year Journeys program, which provides a supportive and culturally relevant learning community. Many other CEGEPs offer similar introductory programs for First Nations, Inuit and Métis students. In 2022, the CSB in partnership with John Abbott College launched the Iyeskuwiiu springboard program, which enables Cree students to earn CEGEP credits while studying culturally relevant courses in their home communities. Humanities instructor Jed Matoush appreciates that the pro-

gram opens doors to careers outside the typical market economy. “Things more traditional like land keepers or the midwifery program for Cree women who want to give birth in the bush,” said Matoush. “Their physical education class is entirely done in the bush, with Elders only speaking Cree for the entire week. Let’s bring culture back into the education system for those students who want to stay in the North and follow more traditional pursuits.” Matoush suggested this decolonization process extends to the Cree Health Board’s recent integration of traditional spirituality, which was long a “taboo” subject. She’s currently completing her PhD looking at how Cree people integrate culture in their institutions of self-governance. While Cree students are encouraged to return to Eeyou Istchee following university, many find it challenging to reintegrate into their communities with meaningful employment and housing. After raising these concerns with CSB chairperson Sarah Pash at a group dinner last winter, Matoush said last spring’s PSSS career fair was announced in response. “We’re so disconnected from our communities that when we go home nobody knows us because we’ve been gone for so long,” said Matoush. “We graduate and basically nobody wants us after. The career fair was great to interact with people and see different opportunities.” Although disappointed that Indigenous issues were largely ignored in her graduate studies, Matoush was encouraged by a recent meeting of CEGEP directors. They recognized more must be done to integrate Indigenous students, who Matoush

said are more often shy and young parents, with challenges writing and speaking English, let alone French. As institutions struggle to overcome their systemic biases within a Québécois culture that perceives itself to be fighting its own assimilation, Cree students are succeeding in unprecedented career paths. In January, Matoush will become perhaps the first Indigenous professor to teach Canadian politics at Concordia University. “Obviously, I kept a big chunk of the course to talk about colonialism, the Indian Act and contemporary issues that I think a lot of non-Indigenous professors probably skimmed over within 10 minutes,” said Matoush. “That’s my contribution to the Cree Nation for now and one day, yes, I would like to go back to my community and work in local governance or something like that.”

The CMEB Aims to

• Assist the Crees in accessing mineral exploration opportunities. • Facilitate the development of mineral exploration enterprises with Cree entrepreneurship. • Help encourage the Crees and Cree enterprises to beneﬁt from Quebec’s regular funding programs as well as other provincial assistance allocated to mineral exploration activities. • Act as the main intermediary between offers and demands of services made to Cree enterprises in matters relating to mineral exploration. THE CREE MINERAL EXPLORATION BOARD 21 Hilltop, P.O. Box 150 Wemindji, QC J0M 1L0 T: 819-978-0264 x327

cmeb.org

www.nationnews.ca November 17, 2023

the Nation

Puzzles

Crossword

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 ACROSS 1 Medicine 14 15 16 amounts 18 19 17 6 Furtive summons 22 20 21 10 ___-bodied 14 Hollywood's 23 24 Eastwood 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 15 Skin cream additive 35 36 33 34 16 Family fight 37 38 39 17 County of Ireland 42 40 41 18 Carton material 44 45 46 20 Palestinian of old 43 22 Stallone role 47 48 49 50 23 Airport arriver 53 54 55 56 24 Part of "GWTW" 51 52 25 "Babylon" star 59 57 58 28 9Lives spokes61 62 60 cat 30 Droning sound 64 65 63 33 Bury 35 PDF document, Copyright 2023 by The Puzzle Syndicate for one 37 He played 61 Church nook 9 Kind of talk 36 Yuri Gagarin, Archie 62 Piece of cave 10 Walking for one 39 Do some nit art 11 Coastal 38 Book end? picking? 63 Cincinnati team getaway 41 Navajo newborn 40 Very involved 64 Forest dweller 12 Sneak around 45 Brit's sawbuck 42 Minor 65 Strong, drink13 Counter current 48 Some 43 Pirate's domain wise 19 Take offense tournaments 44 Probate concern 21 How some shall 50 Contract 46 NY team DOWN remain provisions 47 Mix a salad 1 Roman 800 24 Like bachelors 51 Burn 49 Marinara alter2 Earthenware pot 25 MLB draft 52 Pantheon locale native 3 City in central decisions 53 Deal with 51 Slithered along China 26 Nonsensical 54 Voice of the 53 Collective 4 Send into a 27 Growled at, say iPhone opinion swoon 29 Stewart of song 55 Amer. military 57 Wedding 5 Pick pockets 31 Surprise win fliers follower 6 "Scarface" star 32 Mike who 56 Mirror image 59 Worker's wish 7 Certain roofers voiced Shrek 58 "Spy vs. Spy" 60 Grace period? 8 Like some losers 34 Humble nature magazine

PREVIOUS SOLUTION:

Solution to Crossword: O C C U R L A M E S N A P T H I N E A L U M P U M A H O R S E S O M E T I M E S R O D E N T E S C A L A T E W A D E R R E A D E R S D C C C O L O R A D O T A B H E A L T H F O O D S A R E D O D O A X L E V I I I N T E R S P E R S E E T E R N I T Y O A R N A S T Y P U R I T A N C O L D S O R E S P A D E R N I N E S H A B I T A B L E T E A S E V E N T A C L U E D D Y R E S T S D E E M

STR8TS

SUDOKU

Tough

Previous solution - Medium

5 7 6 1

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

3 5 3 6 7

1 4

5 6 9 1 You can find more help, tips and hints at www.str8ts.com

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

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

No. 676

Easy

9 9

3 9 1

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3 7 6

7 4 1 8 3 9 2 5 6

4 3 8

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

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.

Previous solution - Very Hard

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.

No. 676

by Margie E. Burke

5 3 6 1 4 2 7 9 8

8 2 9 7 5 6 4 3 1

6 5 3 9 8 7 1 2 4

2 7 4 5 1 3 6 8 9

9 1 8 2 6 4 3 7 5

4 6 7 3 9 8 5 1 2

1 9 2 6 7 5 8 4 3

3 8 5 4 2 1 9 6 7

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.

T&B Rez Notes

Fruitcake season by Sonny Orr

or the third time this week, I’ve been fretting over time and the seeming abundance of it. Since daylight-saving time kicked in, I have been in a disoriented state, waking up at five in the morning and gasping for sunlight when I step out of the office. Where did all that sunlight go? Weren’t we supposed to save some before settling in for winter? Another thing that has me in a tizzy is all this beautiful snow. It makes everything bright and clean looking, but it really has a dark side to it: shoveling. The sweat that forms under my shirt, hoodie and outer layer jacket makes me think of the days when sweat was less appreciated and cool weather was prayed for. Yes, the shovel worked too well this year as the first real winter storm set in, blanketing and muffling our cries for sunlight to appear through the dark clouds. As the hard pellets of snow pummeled our bodies a non-local told me that it’s refreshing and invigorating. I thought this conversation might lead to a dip into Hudson Bay, just to wash off the remnants of summer. Thankfully, my tourist friend didn’t go that far, but did explain about the death wish in Scandinavian culture that advocates jumping into a hole in the ice and resurfacing milliseconds later wide-eyed as a shivering ice statue. And then to roll around in the snow.

Nah, that’s not for me. I’ve had plenty of similar experiences while taking an extra-long shower only to have the hot water run out. That quickly interrupts my vocal solo of the latest smash hit with a loud scream. While driving through our sleepy little town, (where you would think that people are sleepy but just during the daylight hours), I noticed residents gazing skyward and pointing at something in the heavens. I looked up, anticipating an alien invasion, but it was the annual reappearance of the tasty ptarmigan. They were flying around the town, most likely in search of elusive sand particles, which are now buried under the snow. Ptarmigans need sand for their gullet to help break down the willows that they love to eat. So, snowbirds for supper I thought, that’s the nice thing about having incredibly high prices for groceries – you can always kill your main course instead. Speaking of high prices, the price of just going to the store has risen again. As fuel prices become a high-income luxury, it ensures that there is only so much money left over for this and that. Perhaps a foreign concept might have to be introduced to our general population, something called budgeting and saving money. I can already see that this Christmas harvest might be the skimpiest on record.

I guess I’ll have to compensate by baking everything from scratch instead of buying a two-month-old fruitcake. You know, the kind that was baked by some fruitcake construction worker who could recycle old fruitcakes as bricks for the new housing development coming up next year. Instead, I’ll just make my award-winning Christmas fruitcake. I know it’s good when silence takes over and mouths savour tastes from the heart instead of crying for some expensive candy from the store. The only problem is the gestation period of a fruitcake, which is six weeks swaddled in cloth hidden in the vegetable bin of your fridge, where no one looks. Come Christmas, the cake can be revealed in all its glory to the family’s oohs and aahs, adding to the magic. Those magic moments will happen in six weeks or so. In the meantime, I’m debating whether to shave or not for this winter. As the white beard appears, so do all those comments about Father Christmas. When will you fill my stocking? Is the missus free on the 24th again? Will the boss of the family need a break from the old man and his crazy elves? My beard will go and so will my sanity, at least for a week or so. Happy holidays everyone!

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 November 17, 2023

the Nation

Bannock & The parallels of colonialism

Tea

by Maïtée Labrecque-Saganash

atching the news coverage of the events unfolding in Gaza is insufferable. The IsraeliPalestinian conflict is politically complex and mainstream Canadian media has obvious biases in its coverage of the situation. On top of that, Meta and Google have banned many news sources for Canadian users on their platforms, making it hard for people to access legitimate information. I understand it’s hard to navigate information for someone who doesn’t know much about this ongoing conflict and watching mainstream media regurgitate propaganda to legitimize the ethnic cleansing of Palestinians sure doesn’t help people in their critical thinking. But if it’s of any help, here’s a few things on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Palestine includes different territories, some occupied by Israeli settlements or military, some not, some blockaded by literal walls like the one Donald Trump wanted to build along the U.S.-Mexican border, some not. The region’s borders have drastically changed since the creation of Israel in 1948. What is now considered Palestine does not match the land claims of the Palestinians. The regions are now subject to different authorities and legislation. Since the beginning of October, Israel is bombing a tiny, blockaded region – the same size as the City of Montreal – and which is one of the most densely populated in the world. More than a third of the buildings in the Gaza Strip have already been destroyed. Hamas is not the leadership of Palestine. Palestine has a domestic governing body, but Israel controls its tax revenue and access to what’s left of their territory after Israeli settler colonialism.

Israelis and Jews around the world have been criticizing Netanyahu for a hot minute, so don’t believe the narrative that the latest events are a war between Jews and Muslims

Palestine does not have an army. Israel has control over the livelihood of Palestinians and decides where they can travel, build and live. Hamas is an armed resistance group that operates in and de facto controls Gaza. The attack on Israel by the organization came after months of unilateral policies on the annexation of the West Bank (which goes against international law) by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government. It’s ironic how the world protested the attempted annexation of Ukraine by Russia while allowing the annexation of further Palestinian land by Israel. The current siege of the Gaza Strip by Israel constitutes a gross violation of international law. It is sadistic to keep 2.2 million people between walls with no access to fuel, electricity, food or aid while bombing entire neighbourhoods under the pretext of shutting down Hamas’ operations. Hospitals are down and medics bring in people using their phone flashlights because there is no electricity. It is also important to note that almost half of Gaza’s population are children. Many powerful countries support Israel’s military resources and are send-

ing back-up to assist the destruction of Gaza. Indeed, also Canada sells weapons to Israel and sales have reached the highest amount in 30 years. And although they never formally admitted it, Israel has nuclear weapons. Many Israelis have long protested Netanyahu’s leadership because of his treatment of Palestinians, his authoritarian policies and his rampant corruption during many terms as prime minister. Only a few months ago, Netanyahu was on trial and charged with fraud, breach of trust and accepting bribes in three scandals involving powerful media magnates and wealthy associates. Israelis and Jews around the world have been criticizing Netanyahu for a hot minute, so don’t believe the narrative that the latest events are a war between Jews and Muslims; they are consequences of Israel’s imperialism. Criticizing Israel is not antisemitic. As a Cree, I will always condemn imperialism, the war complex, colonialism and genocide. Plain and simple. The images coming out of Gaza are horrible and I’m tired of the different narratives that are robbing Palestinians of their humanity and worth.

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