Issuu

HAPPY

ANNIVERSARY

to the Nation It’s our 30th Anniversary! So much water under the bridge... In the last 30 years, we have shared so many memories, stories and Cree history! Thank you to our readers and clients!

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CONTENTS EDITORIAL

10 CNYC Urban Tour Connecting First Nations students in urban city centres

Politics

CHB’s action plan to combat homelessness

Community

Three decades

Customizing justice

Northern exposure

NEWS

BRIEFS FEATURES

Connecting in the city

Shelter schemes

Real homes

Remembering Charly Wash

Redressing the deal

PUZZLES REZ NOTES Oh, wintery woe

UTNS Protecting our elders should be a priority

24 25

Obituary

Charly Wash

18 New shelters

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Editorial

Three decades by Will Nicholls

he Nation sent out its first issue in 1993. “Let’s see how long we can do this,” we told ourselves. Time passed. A lot more time than we ever imagined. And we’re still here. It is an honour for all of us at the Nation to serve the Cree and other Indigenous Peoples. We wanted to create a magazine that would reflect the needs of our readers. Reflections of our culture, tradition, community, challenges and, of course, the news concerning our realities. I am blessed in the people who work for us or who have worked for us. They are all with us because they recognize the articles and news have meaning for everyone rather than a newspaper you would only glance at, reading at best a few articles. Many of our former staff have gone on to better jobs. We couldn’t afford what they were worth. I feel though that the skills we taught them assisted them. They learned to talk to anyone, research any subject and to write in a professional manner. But truthfully, their own drive and ability made them what they are today. One example is Steve Bonspiel. His first story was about 9/11 when the planes hit the twin towers in New York City. He was on the scene, and we ended up hiring him. He is a great writer and today he is an owner of the Eastern Door, the weekly newspaper serving the Mohawk community of Kahnawake. All the people here or who have been with us are like that. They follow their hearts and use their minds to make it happen. I must mention our two editors, Lyle Stewart and Martin Siberok. Both have been with the Nation through thick and thin. I cannot count how many times their

advice prevented articles from harming the work that the Nation does. From correcting factual mistakes, avoiding libelling someone without proof, including racist comments pertaining to other peoples, going overboard on a story or editorial (mostly me) and way more. In the past 30 years we have seen a lot and wrote about it. There was Richard Le Hir, who questioned whether Indigenous Peoples even had a civilization and that he had nothing to learn from them. A Nation trip to the La Grande II complex was titled “Inside the Evil Empire.” Noted Nation writer Neil Diamond wrote a restaurant review of the Hydro-Québec cafeteria with the header, “A Little Decadence in the Evil Empire.” Those early days reflected the fight to stop Hydro-Québec‘s Great Whale Project. The Cree won an incredible victory by stopping the project but not many people could believe it was truly over when HQ shelved the project. If there is something we have learned in the past 30 years, it’s that while people may not be

patient, governments and corporations certainly are. Looking at HQ’s latest 12-year plan the Cree can expect to see another attempt to harness the power of the remaining rivers in Eeyou Istchee. By 2035, HQ wants to add 8,500 megawatts to its power grid. Here’s the thing, they want to sell 2,400 megawatts to both New York and Massachusetts. Together that’s 4,800 megawatts and they are promoting electric cars and more. It is simple logic to realize they will need more than that. Hopefully the Cree leaders will be ready to show us they still understand what stewards, tallymen and every Cree who is part of the land mean to the way of life of the Cree. And one last thing, the Nation was made to be a part of our lives. If you have a tip or a story you want us to cover, call Randy at 514-889-3032 or email me at will@nationnews.ca. With every year that passes we still love being a part of your lives and hope to be there for many more to come.

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 S. Orr, X. Kataquapit, P. Quinn, S. Hossain, J. Janke, A. Nambiar, D. Mark-Stewart 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

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Editorial News

Customizing justice

Ottawa consults leaders on an Indigenous justice strategy by Avanti Nambiar

onald Nicholls, the Cree Nation’s Director of Justice and Correctional Services, was asked by Justice Canada to attend a special meeting in Quebec City November 14, to give input on the federal government’s plan to create a National Indigenous Justice Strategy (IJS). Following the recommendations and calls to action of various commissions in Canada over the last few decades, the need was expressed to create a system that can address Indigenous overrepresentation within Canada’s justice system. Indigenous peoples face heavy criminalization due to systemic discrimination, poverty, lack of education, poor employment opportunities, substance abuse and intergenerational trauma. The federal government is taking steps to adapt to the needs of the Indigenous nations. According to Nicholls, the government asked Indigenous participants to speak to two key topics: reforming Canada’s national justice system to improve it for Indigenous peoples; and what is needed to support Indigenous nations to create their own judicial systems and laws.

Discussions addressed how to improve courts, policing, corrections, prevention and rehabilitation for Indigenous peoples. This includes making the justice system more equitable and easier for Indigenous peoples to navigate. The technical language used in courts is often difficult to grasp, especially for individuals who don’t speak English or French as a first language. The translation used in the courts can be confusing. Probation and bail conditions may be culturally insensitive and counterproductive. Some frontline services aimed at assisting Indigenous people coming in contact with the justice system struggle with underfunding and inadequate staffing. Nicholls highlighted an absence of knowledge of Indigenous peoples by federal and provincial frontline workers. Focusing resources on early prevention can be effective if based on the core values, culture and ways of an Indigenous people. Nicholls noted that the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, as well as the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and

Girls, would support reform of the current system. Participants at the IJS meeting spoke about recognizing and supporting Indigenous peoples in the country to build their own justice programs. It follows the principles of self-government and determination to create a judicial branch of government. Indigenous peoples need their own constitutions and laws. The application of these laws should follow their values and culture, and be delivered in their own language, which would reduce the confusion in translation. It would also address the existence of systemic discrimination. In 2018, though they made up only about 4% of the Canadian adult population, Indigenous adults accounted for 30% of admissions to provincial or territorial custody, and 29% of admissions to federal custody. They also accounted for 24% of all homicide victims in 2017. In an effort to remedy this overrepresentation in 2021, Quebec budgeted $14 million over four years for Indigenous justice development.

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hapmagoostui hosted the Cree Outfitting and Tourism Association’s (COTA) annual general meeting and tourism conference November 6-8, bringing special guests together with the regional industry’s leaders under the theme of “sustainability, the heart of Cree tourism.” While the event’s presentations unveiled exciting initiatives and opportunities, it was the final morning’s group discussion facilitated by Marie-Ève Dufour from Quebec’s Ministry of Tourism that focused on the year’s most significant development – the devastating impacts of this summer’s forest fires and ideas for rebuilding. Not only did the fires once again force the closure of the region just after rebounding from the pandemic, they also claimed one of COTA’s most promising assets. On July 11, COTA announced that the Creetopia base camp in Waskaganish was destroyed by fire 606, bringing a premature end to the luxury camping site designed according to Cree culture that was finally ready to open after years of planning. In September, Eeyou Istchee Baie-James Travel announced it was closing its operations. The move shifts resources to supporting communities more directly, such as helping establish online booking systems. “We have very little market-ready product, basically,” explained Robin McGinley, COTA executive director and former EIBJ Travel president. “Between fires taking out Creetopia and not getting the second boat for Wiinipaakw Tours working after so many times – you remove our big tourism potential businesses; it just doesn’t make sense anymore.” Celebrating two decades of COTA service this year, McGinley insisted the future of the region’s tourism remains

Northern exposure

COTA annual meeting Eeyou Istchee’s COTA Annual Meetingplans Plans Eeyou Istchee’s Tourism Recovery tourism recovery by Patrick Quinn | Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

bright. There are early discussions to relaunch the Creetopia concept elsewhere. Wiinipaakw has continued its two- or three-night boat expeditions with new co-op director Jonathan Blueboy. Chris Beck from the Cree Nation Government detailed a feasibility study for the proposed national marine conservation area stretching from Chisasibi to Waskaganish. The conference also welcomed Allen Matoush to discuss other protected areas and a guide to Cree-led ecotourism. Mistissini’s Nibiischii Corporation has been an innovative model for sustainable tourism since assuming full control of the Albanel-Mistassini-Waconichi Lakes Wildlife Reserve six years ago. Spared from the worst of the fires, Nibiischii recently added an astronomical observatory and cinepark to its floating cabins and other attractions. “We lost six weeks of revenues, but we were lucky not to lose any infrastructure,” said Nibiischii executive director Mireille Gravel. “With corporate retreats in the fall, we went mushroom picking and did projections on the floating drivein cinema in Cliff Bay. We just finished renovations, so everything is renovated, insulated.” After a hydro line is connected later this winter, the reserve will be able to

open year-round. At the conference, Gravel presented a “boil-in-a-bag” meal project that was launched in July, featuring high-quality prepackaged meals integrating local ingredients. Working with Chef Nath in Chibougamau, the initiative has been so successful that it will soon be offered throughout the region, for hotels and even locals going into the bush. “You can have a very fancy meal with a very good price,” said Gravel. “In all our meals, we try to put non-timber forest products, so mushrooms and plants, to make sure we have a taste of the boreal forest. We can’t put wild fish and meat because of governmental restrictions. We’ll try to develop recipes inspired by traditional meals.” COTA is set to develop a 2025-2030 regional tourism strategy. Working with each local tourism or economic development officer, the aim is to build on attractions and infrastructure already in place. Conference participants praised the hospitality of Whapmagoostui after they were treated to local artwork, a traditional meal prepared by the cultural department and the magnificent northern lights. “The Indigenous Services Canada people were impressed,” said Sydney Orr, who led a community tour. “It was what to look for in the local sites with

the inukshuks, the river and Hudson Bay. Just the scenery is an attraction; also, the culture. The issue is where are we going to put the tourists when they come up.” With limited available rooms, Orr said the community is developing a feasibility study for a proposed hotel and restaurant. As no roads connect to the south, construction projects require special contingency planning in case something goes wrong – and as Orr said, “There’s always something that goes wrong.” “It could be something simple like 50 more feet of whatever [material],” said Orr. “You have to wait a long time to get it and delays are very costly. It’s usually three times the average cost. We have to be very precise about the number of rooms that will be feasible.” Besides the hindrance of bringing everything by plane or ship, Orr believes “everything else is a plus.” A growing network of entrepreneurs is ready for business in this unique community where Cree and Inuit cultures coexist, and wild surroundings of rugged beauty await the intrepid traveller.

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ouwahstore@gmail.com (514) 588-3162 www.ouwahstore.com 18 Fort-George Road

In Brief Hudson Valley rely on the river as a food source, placing them at risk of consuming contaminated fish. The main culprit is General Electric. The company dumped an estimated 1.3 million pounds of PCBs into the Hudson River between 1947 and 1977. In 1984, the river was designated a “superfund site,” a title given to the most severely polluted lands and waters in the US. Despite efforts to clean it up, the danger to human and habitat health still far exceeds the acceptable risk range of the Environmental Protection Agency. In this latest review of fish, water and sediment data, the EPA admitted that they’d failed to meet their pollution reduction goals within their expected timeframes. At present, the EPA is still focused on warning people to avoid eating hazardous fish, rather than extending efforts to further clean the river. This strategy places the burden of responsibility on the fish consumers rather than the people who caused the risk itself: General Electric. Drew Gamils, staff attorney for the Riverkeeper environmental organization, has suggested that the EPA should switch its focus to risk-producers. Gamils indicated the burden should be on GE to clean the local sediments where the PBCs are concentrated.

In Brief

Better rights for Indigenous construction workers Greg Mark-Stewart, a fulltime carpenter from Eastmain, is advocating for the welfare of construction workers in Eeyou/Eenou Istchee. Recently, Mark-Stewart took to social media to voice his concerns with a post that resonated widely, garnering more than 200 shares. In his candid video, MarkStewart delved into the pressing issues surrounding local Cree construction companies and their treatment of workers. He calls for substantial changes within these enterprises, particularly regarding benefits for labourers, including retirement plans. Mark-Stewart’s plea for long-term benefits taps into a broader predicament faced by Indigenous workers, especially those working independently. The lack of comprehensive support systems often leaves these individuals without a safety net for their future. His advocacy underscores the larger conversation about fair treatment, equity and the enhancement of quality of life for Indigenous labourers in the construction sector.

Quality Inn to get expansion CREECO’s Val-d’Or community investment unveiled at the Cree Nation Abitibi-Témiscamingue Economic Alliance conference pledges over $10 million for a transformative expansion of its award-winning Quality Inn & Suites on rue de l’Escale. The 18-month plan encompasses a complete renovation of the existing property and the addition of 42 rooms and suites across three floors. “The announcement marks the beginning of a significant investment in what will become the largest hotel property in the region,” said CREECO president Derrick Neeposh. “This is part of our ongoing commitment to provide value through development and self-sufficiency of the Cree Nation, while maintaining long-term-profitability.”

Starting in early 2024, renovations will modernize interiors, infusing Indigenous themes. Summer 2024 marks the commencement of the expansion, featuring additional rooms, conference space, enhanced facilities and a rooftop terrace boasting panoramic views.

Hudson River still highly polluted According to a five-year review of the Hudson River superfund site in New York state, a hazardous concentration of PCBs continues to pollute the river, putting residents at risk of ailments such as diabetes. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are highly carcinogenic chemicals used in industrial and consumer products. It lurks within the sediment, water and wildlife of the Hudson River. Residents of the

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Features

Cree Nation Youth Council launches an urban tour Photos provided by the CNYC

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Connecting in the city by Patrick Quinn | Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

he Cree Nation Youth Council took its show on the road in November for an urban and post-secondary tour of Montreal, Ottawa and North Bay. Each stop on the tour delivered a unique evening – Ottawa’s event was beneath the towering totem poles of the Canadian Museum of History with gourmet catering from a local Indigenous company. Einish said they reached over 200 students in total, along with many family members. “For the next tour, we’ll try to double that,” CNYC project tech-

nician Steve Einish Einish told the Nation. “Anything you do, you’ve got to do it better the next time. They told us they enjoyed everything about it. Having these types of events for students studying down south was never done. They get homesick and miss being around Crees.” Einish enjoyed making plans for future tours on the long drives between events and suggested adding Val-d’Or or other communities next time. Excited to be bringing his creative energy to events for the Cree Nation’s youth, Einish looks

forward to shaking up the status quo and promoting local talent. “I’ll do my best to do something new,” declared Einish. “I feel it’s played out booking the same acts from the Innu Nation when there’s so much talent in our region getting overlooked. We need to start supporting our people, whether they’re entrepreneurs or they do crafts or music.” Einish is helping plan an ambitious youth summit in Quebec City in February. Featuring workshops, motivational speakers and events, it will involve youth councils from

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all Cree communities along with other First Nations and Inuit groups in Quebec. The Cree Nation Summer Games, which have been held sporadically since the 1970s, are making a comeback next summer in Mistissini with plans to make it a regular event. With an emphasis on Cree cultural sports like portage and leg wrestling, CNYC leadership had been working with Charly Washipabano before his untimely passing in early November. A former elite hockey player, Washipabano was instrumental in the development of the Cree Nation Bears and other hockey programs throughout Cree communities while also serving as program coordinator for the Eeyou Istchee Sports and Recreation Association. He was invited to the Montreal Canadiens development camp as a coach in July 2022 along with young prospect Israel Mianscum. While forest fires changed the CNYC’s plans to hold its annual general assembly on Fort George Island in July, on October 5 AGA delegates visited the island, where Elders Janie and Roderick Pachano, Violet Bates and Clara Napash shared their memories of the island and stories about its former residential schools. “It was really emotional hearing the stories,” said Deputy Youth Grand Chief Jordan Masty. “It touched a lot of youth. They started to realize how lucky we are with the Cree School Board funding our education. There’s a lot of history of that place – some houses built on that island are still standing in Chisasibi.” Chisasibi hosted the remainder of the AGA, including a lively discussion about the potential benefits and impacts of the Grande Alliance. To empower future young leaders, two youth fared admirably as guest chairpersons. Youth Grand Chief Adrian N. Gunner said he was inspired by the youth’s passion for making a difference and reiterated his drive to continue pushing for them. Masty credited Einish with organizing the urban post-secondary tour, finding all the venues, artists and 12

catering services in under four weeks. Each event featured a delicious feast, entertainment and presentations from the Cree Nation Government’s human resources, Commerce and Industry, Cree Language Commission and Eeyou Eenou Police Force. Einish recruited his former Nomad collaborator CJ Monias to create tour posters and suggested he apply for the vacant multimedia communications technician position. Monias learned he got the job after the tour. “The challenge was picking comics who could grab the attention of an Indigenous crowd, who didn’t have to change what they say and that their humour was relatable and appropriate,” said Monias. “I picked some who I thought were really good and they were very receptive to them.” Music was provided by Ottawa musician Aspects and his 13-yearold daughter Illiyah Rose, who blew people away with her powerhouse vocals. Icebreaker games brought much laughter and a sense of hometown fun. “You’re not just sitting there listening to presentations but having this entertainment that helps to retain very useful information,” asserted Monias. “It was work they do, jobs for postsecondary grads, the salaries and benefits. By providing a great time, maybe when they’re done school, they’ll remember that the HR department talked to us at that event.” In March, the CNYC is planning a winter journey along the coast. As carrier of the “unity stick” during the famous Nishiyuu journey from Whapmagoostui to Ottawa in 2013, Masty understands the power of such a trek. Despite its challenges, he fondly recalls the lifelong friends he met during that experience. “Without participating in that journey, they’d be strangers to me,” said Masty. “You have to adapt to the snow, learning the traditional way of snowshoeing and walking. It won’t be easy. When I reached the Parliament building, I turned around and said I’ll never walk again. But I’m not keeping my promise.”

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“There’s so much talent in our region getting overlooked. We need to start supporting our people” - CNYC project technician Steve Einish

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Wishing everyone in Eeyou Istchee a safe and happy holiday season.

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Shelter schemes

The alleyway behind Resilience Montreal 16

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Cree Health Board responds with action plan to combat homelessness

by Patrick Quinn | Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

s homelessness surges across Quebec, governments and community organizations are struggling to respond. While recent reports suggest the number of people experiencing homelessness has nearly doubled in four years, researchers warn that data is vastly underestimating the true numbers. “It is Quebec-wide, this issue, and the government is not giving extra money to any of the shelters yet,” said Na’kuset, executive director of Montreal’s Native Women’s Shelter and co-founder of the Resilience day shelter. “Resilience opens every morning with a lineup down the street – there’s more clientele than ever.” Since nearby women’s shelter Chez Doris suspended core services in September, Resilience has been serving over 1,100 meals daily while continuing to provide basic needs for the city’s most marginalized people. Intervention workers help with everything from detox and mental health issues to returning to northern communities. “A significant percentage of the population we’re working with are Indigenous,” said Resilience executive director David Chapman. “We’re trying to do the right thing and stay open but how far below zero can you go? The annual operational budget is around $2 million and we’re finding ourselves consistently falling below zero.” While its new permanent home would alleviate the significant rent expenses, Na’kuset said skyrocketing costs leave them $6 million short for the building, let alone operations. Currently under renovation, the new facility’s innovative plans include a healing room designed like a Mohawk longhouse and an on-site interview room where women can report abuse with fewer psychological and physical barriers. “We hit our target then had the rug pulled out from under us,” said Na’kuset. “I don’t want to pay rent at the current Resilience when we have a beautiful building that’s already paid for. If any readers know corporations that just made a billion dollars, we would like some of that.” Resilience’s advocacy for the homeless recently brought it to court to defend people evicted from an encampment under the Ville-Marie Expressway.

Without a realistic destination, many moved to dangerous places like forested areas, abandoned buildings and even Resilience’s own alleyway. “The most marginalized population is simply learning to hide better,” asserted Chapman. “With growing numbers of homeless, it’s inevitable there are going to be encampments. Under the bridge, at least they had a little shelter and protection from their fellow campers to look out for each other.” A proportion of the homeless population is always trying to survive outside. Chapman said this is sometimes a result of a hoarding problem – some people are unable to leave their collected belongings. Others are caring for pets or don’t want to separate from their partner into gendered shelters. About one-quarter of the city’s homeless are Inuit. Recognizing their growing needs, the Makivvik Corporation joined the federal and provincial governments in a recent funding announcement for a culturally adapted homeless shelter to be established by Projets Autochtones Québec (PAQ). Two buildings on Sherbrooke Street will be converted by 2027, accommodating up to 50 Indigenous men and women with 24-hour intervention services. In 2022, Quebec’s Ministry of Health and Social Services released an Interdepartmental Action Plan on Homelessness, through which it is funding projects addressing the root causes of homelessness. The Cree Board of Health and Social Services is making this support available in Eeyou Istchee while attempting to help Cree people outside the region. “We’ve been getting calls asking if we can transfer [homeless Cree people in cities] to the community,” said Virginia Wabano, the CBHSSJB’s regional proximity director. “There are still pathways that need to be ironed out. We don’t have many resources to say yes, send them

home. We are very limited but it’s becoming overwhelming.” The issue has spread to numerous communities where it hadn’t previously been a visible problem. Quebec’s recent report suggested one in two homeless people can now be found in rural areas of the province. Wabano said some First Nations communities have already leveraged emerging funding to establish homeless emergency shelters. A planned partnership with the Chibougamau Eenou Friendship Centre and the Sûreté du Québec aims to support the many Cree in that community. A first call for project proposals yielded 17 that are being reviewed by a selection committee. A second call was issued November 20 for new projects or existing ones ready to be launched that address homelessness in three interrelated areas: addiction and prevention of homelessness; emergency shelters; and proximity services. “There’s an umbrella of various issues that lead to homelessness,” Wabano told the Nation. “There’s substance abuse, family breakdowns, mental health issues. How do we bridge that gap so they can reintegrate with transition programming to become contributing members of society?” Transitioning back to community and family may take different resources to support employment and personal health. Some organizations are looking at tiny home projects for reintegration. That reflects the challenge of expanding housing options within communities. For those who feel pushed by systemic issues to southern cities, Wabano said “home” may refer to Eeyou Istchee itself. “There’s a lot of stigmatization with homeless people,” said Wabano. “They’re human beings in a rough patch in their lives. It won’t just take one project to mend the situation. There’s a lot of healing to be done – this is a very tiny step in the big picture.”

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Community

Real homes

A new permanent housing solution for urban Indigenous homeless people by Joshua Janke

n Indigenous-led Montreal organization is creating permanent solutions for an urban homeless population that often relies on temporary shelters and short term, crisis-based programs. Projets Autochtones Québec (PAQ) will be converting two buildings in downtown Montreal into a shelter for Indigenous individuals experiencing homelessness in the city. Currently, PAQ only has one permanent location, the Maison Akhwà:tsire, which can accommodate 22 individuals with shelter, food and support. The organization has been operating a temporary shelter since 2020. The proposed permanent facility, PAQ-2, will replace it and look to follow the example of the Maison Akhwà:tsire, the permanent housing complex PAQ opened last February. PAQ executive director Stacy Boucher-Anthony says that the organization helps First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples facing housing insecurity in Montreal. Using a culturally adapted approach based on empowerment and harm reduction, PAQ offers shelter, housing options and services for Indigenous individuals. PAQ’s goal is to “promote well-being and healing within the urban Indigenous community, while strengthening and advocating for the health and housing rights for those currently without a home.”

Boucher-Anthony told APTN that they were unable to sign a long-term lease with the owner of the building at the temporary location, which prevented them from offering services that they will now provide in the permanent location. “For the new PAQ-2, the facilities will belong to us,” she said. “[The construction] will require merging two buildings into a single one, so the complexity comes from there.” A Cree woman who asked to remain anonymous said she has lived at PAQ’s temporary shelter ever since she arrived in Montreal in 2022. She says the PAQ shelter is her “safe place” while she looks for more

the Nation December 1, 2023 www.nationnews.ca

permanent housing. Knowing that the shelter will become a permanent location is a positive step for the organization and her own wellbeing, she says, because it gives her more security while house-searching and opens similar opportunities for others in her situation. “Better services would be good for other clients as well because there are people who want to come in here, but the building has already reached the maximum that they can accommodate,” the woman explained. Boucher-Anthony said that the nearly $15 million project had received $7.7 million from the federal government,

$6.5 million from the province and $650,000 from the Makivvik Corporation. The new PAQ-2 shelter will accommodate up to 50 men and women, offering 24-hour intervention services. The shelter’s services include daily breakfast, dinner and free accommodation for Indigenous people living in vulnerable situations. PAQ’s intervention team helps individuals with referrals in cases of financial, health or personal crises. They provide advice adapted to specific situations or immediate needs (employment or accommodation). The team also helps people with legal problems. These social aids are combined with free shelter and food to provide continuous and regular care. Joey Partridge from Makivvik Corporation said that the company has a longstanding relationship with PAQ. Makivvik represents the Inuit community of Quebec and Patridge said that the new location will have a widespread positive effect. “We wanted to put in almost the maximum amount to make sure that we help PAQ transition from their location to the other one, especially knowing that there’s a 41% homelessness rate in our community,” Partridge said. Situations like these call for more permanent social aids and organizations for homeless populations both in urban cities and smaller communities. For example, last February, PAQ opened the Maison Akhwà:tsire. It offers a permanent, subsidized housing complex in downtown Montreal for Indigenous individuals. This house serves as a small-scale example of what the PAQ2 shelter will look like. In 2021, PAQ purchased and began transforming the then bed-and-breakfast at 1025 St-Hubert Street into a house that “represents reconciliation with Indigenous people,” said PAQ’s Heather Johnston. “This space accommodates people who have spent years, sometimes decades, on the streets and who live with intergenerational trauma,” Johnston said in a news release. “They will now have a dignified and kind place to call home in a community where they are comfortable and safe.” Johnston said that the comfort of the residents was of utmost concern, as well as respect for their unique needs and differences. PAQ is slated to open its new location by December 2027. Until then, it will continue to operate at the Maison Akhwà:tsire and its current temporary location. Last year, PAQ provided 33,475 meals and 20,608 overnight stays for Indigenous individuals while six transition-house residents found their own apartment with the organization’s help.

CHISASIBI BRANCH MANAGER Are you interested in a meaningful career where you can contribute to the financial well-being and economic growth of Indigenous people and communities in Canada? FNBC is at an exciting time in its’ history, we’re growing, and as a result, we’re increasing our workforce with bright, energetic, purposeful individuals of all walks of life. As the Branch Manager, you will be working in collaboration with the retail banking leadership team, and hiring, developing and coaching branch employees. You are highly adaptable, professional, efficient and enjoy working with others. THE CHALLENGE • Experience in managing, coaching and developing a retail banking team to achieve business results and professional/ personal development objectives • Results orientated with proven success in growing revenue and profitability • Experience in personal lending and investment products • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal • Highly adaptable, professional and efficient • Highly motivated self-starter who is adaptable, professional and efficient • Working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel • A strong desire to learn grow and succeed ABOUT YOU • Five (5) years of experience working in a financial institution is preferred, or experience in retail management • Proven experience as a retail banker or similar role; sales or customer service experience is preferred • Knowledge of retail banking rules and procedures • Strong leadership skills • Working knowledge of banking software and MS Office 365 • Patience and problem-solving ability • Customer-oriented attitude • Excellent communication skills • Knowledge of Indigenous relationship building • Acceptable criminal record and credit checks

Please visit our website at www.fnbc.ca OR drop oﬀ your resume in person at First Nations Bank of Canada, Chisasibi branch OR send your resume and cover letter by email to apply@fnbc.ca

www.nationnews.ca December 1, 2023

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Obituary

Remembering Charly Wash by Daniel Mark-Stewart, Deputy Chief of Eastmain

n Monday evening, November 13, I suddenly received a burning desire to honour and pay tribute to our beloved Charly Washipabano. We all recall last year, during the Montreal Canadiens development training camp. The Canadiens invited two of our boys – player Israel Mianscum and coach Charly Washipabano. For a few days, it seemed like the entire Cree Nation of Eeyou Itschee were Habs fans and supporters. It was a proud moment to be Eeyou/Eenou and from Eeyou Itschee. Both Charly and Israel were great role models and ambassadors for Eeyou Itschee. They certainly paved a road for future hockey players for our Nation. Like many recently, I spent a lot of time thinking about what to say about a

man I came to love and respect. Charly was a friend to so many. I feel privileged to have known him and to be one of his many friends. Suddenly, the idea of having Charly honoured by the Montreal Canadiens came to me. I called the Canadiens office, and was told I should send an email, which I did. They were very understanding, sympathetic and said they would relay the message to others in the organization but could not promise anything would happen with the request. However, I was not ready to give up. I called former Grand Chief Abel Bosum and asked if he could assist in any way. He was eager to help and said

“For a few days, it seemed like the entire Cree Nation of Eeyou Itschee were Habs fans and supporters”

the Nation December 1, 2023 www.nationnews.ca

he would make a few calls and contact some people he knew. Not long after, he sent me a screenshot of text messages he was exchanging with Serge Savard (former player and general manager) of the Canadiens. Savard said he would strongly advise the team to pay tribute to Charly. Savard said they would require permission from the Washipabano family before they could do a tribute. We reached out to Chief Daisy House-Lameboy of Chisasibi to see if the family would give permission. With the help of Chief House, the family said they would be honoured if the Canadiens paid tribute to Charly. This afternoon, I got emotional when I saw the tribute they did for Charly on Facebook. Now tonight, I am at the game and the Canadiens honoured our boy Jalee. Thank you to the Canadiens de Montréal, Chief Daisy HouseLameboy, Abel Bosum, Serge Savard, and Washipabano family for believing in the vision I received to honour Charly. I had a special Canadiens jersey made with the number 97 to honour Charly. A jersey I plan to give to Dolores Audet-Wash, Clifford Washipabano and the Wash family. I will continue to pray for the Washipabano family. Rest in Peace Jalee

www.nationnews.ca www.nationnews.caNovember December17, 1, 2023

the Nation

Peace, love, health and prosperity for the New Year 2024.

Chief Allan Jolly, Council and Staﬀ of MoCreebec Eeyoud 22

the Nation December 1, 2023 www.nationnews.ca

Politics

Redressing the deal The complex story behind the Churchill Falls agreement by Sakib Hossain

he Churchill Falls hydroelectric agreement, signed in 1969, has emerged as a focal point of contention between Quebec and Newfoundland and Labrador. This contentious deal, once seen as a beacon of progress, now stands shrouded in grievances and demands for justice, espe-

cussions revolving around the future of the Churchill Falls agreement resurfaced. Quebec has reaped immense profits from the Churchill Falls project, drawing cheap electricity from Labrador and selling it for a substantial profit, while Newfoundland and Labrador’s benefits have

The Innu Nation’s ancestral lands bear the scars of these hydroelectric projects. Former Innu Grand Chief Etienne Rich echoes the sentiment of many Indigenous leaders, stressing the critical need for their inclusion in these discussions. The absence of Indigenous representation stands as a

Quebec has reaped immense profits from the Churchill Falls project, drawing cheap electricity from Labrador

cially from the Innu communities whose land bore the weight of its construction. In a recent meeting between Quebec Premier François Legault and Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Andrew Furey, dis-

paled in comparison. The contract’s fixed price for power purchase is far lower than the market rates. The lopsided deal has become a source of resentment as electricity prices have risen over time.

stark reminder of the historical marginalization of their voices in matters profoundly impacting their territories and cultures. Rich highlights the significant ecological and cultural damage caused

by the construction of the Churchill Falls dam, leading the Innu Nation to file a $4 billion lawsuit against HydroQuébec and the Churchill Falls Corporation. The suit seeks redress for the devastation experienced by the Innu communities due to this project. The story extends beyond financial disparities and legal battles. It delves into the intricate web of relationships between provinces, governments and Indigenous nations, intertwined with the aspirations and rights of those whose heritage is deeply rooted in these lands. Rich emphasizes the importance of fair resource revenue sharing, signaling a pathway toward reconciliation and empowerment for the Innu Nation. He urges that the Innu’s concerns, arising from Churchill Falls and Muskrat Falls, must be addressed before any further hydroelectric developments, like Gull Island, are considered.

www.nationnews.ca December 1, 2023

the Nation

Puzzles

Crossword

by Margie E. Burke

9 10 11 12 13 ACROSS 1 Bomb, as a mid- 14 15 16 term 19 17 18 5 Lengthy narrative 21 22 20 9 Rustling sound 14 Latvian capital 23 24 25 15 Babe with a bat 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 16 "'Deed I Do" singer Lena 34 35 36 33 17 Haughtiness 37 38 39 40 19 Love, in Lyon 20 Indian condiment 41 42 43 44 21 "Survivor" event 47 48 45 46 23 Entice 25 Trash bag 49 50 51 closers 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 26 What bellbottoms do 60 61 59 29 Camera stand 33 Abbr. in some 63 64 62 military titles 66 67 65 34 Fast too long 36 Potted "pet" Copyright 2023 by The Puzzle Syndicate 37 Elevator pioneer 39 Cowpoke's 63 Parasitic insects 8 Swindle 31 Drunk as a charge 64 Had the answer 9 Ship like Ahab's skunk 40 Potter's oven 65 Contest 10 Pining while 32 "Divine Comedy" 41 Basketball submission away author defense 66 Multitude 11 Pressing need? 35 Intensity 42 Donkey sound 67 Adriatic and 12 Tight 38 Ocean voyager 44 Give permission Aegean 13 Roll-call 43 Room dividers 45 Mesh, as gears response 46 Sinclair Lewis' 47 Save for later DOWN 18 Midway Elmer 49 Growing 1 Peck film, "Cape attractions 48 Celery servings business? ____" 22 Able to read 50 "Pollyanna" 51 Gets soupy, as 2 Surrounding and write actress Hayley ice cream glow 24 Earthenware 52 Bulk buy 52 Yellow3 Irksome fragment 53 Verve flowered plant 4 Riot opportunist 26 Stopped in 54 Word before 56 Classical 5 Memorable time one's tracks field or wing language 6 Use a comma 27 Acknowledge 55 Finger part 59 Watchful 7 Monroe's "The 28 Arborist's 57 Brainchild 60 Huge victory Seven Year concern 58 It's breaking, at 62 Late newsman ____" 30 Goliath, e.g. times Morley 61 Morning drops 1

PREVIOUS SOLUTION:

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

STR8TS

No. 677

5 7 4

3 1 2 4 8 9 5 6 7

3 3

9 1 7

4 2

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

2 4

No. 677

Previous solution - Tough

9 1

SUDOKU

Medium

6 8

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

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

Medium

Previous solution - Easy

8 4 9 2 1 5 3 7 6

7 6 8 9 4 5

2 4 6

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

6 3 1 4 7 2 9 5 2 9 1

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.

the Nation December 1, 2023 www.nationnews.ca

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.

7 6 5 9 3 8 1 4 2

3 1 2 6 7 4 9 5 8

6 7 3 1 5 9 2 8 4

5 8 4 3 6 2 7 9 1

9 2 1 4 8 7 5 6 3

2 9 6 7 4 3 8 1 5

1 5 7 8 2 6 4 3 9

4 3 8 5 9 1 6 2 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

Oh, wintery woe by Sonny Orr

y tires clicked and clacked, the studs scratched the pavement and people stared at me and my noisy car. Okay, I left the North in a storm and arrived down south where the sun was still shining on dry roads. Since I was out of the province, I wondered if my Quebec license plate would give me away. Nope, everyone was in the same dilemma, it seemed. A year later, lesson learned. This winter I’m ready with my studded tires again, hoping for snow and ice and maybe some buttery slush to try them out. Winter seems to have settled in quickly with no remorse. It dumped some November rain on us, just to get our tires on faster. The balancing wheels are spinning to calibrate your tires and make sure that the wobble in your driving is just a case of jittery nerves. Telling stories of the times that I almost lost control brings no comfort to any passenger of mine. But hey, I lived to tell the story. As I always say, drive with caution during winter months, you never know what’s around the next bend on the highway heading north. This winter, I notice the things that I do aren’t the ones I used to worry about. Like the draft coming from that old window. My god, the wind just breezes right through. Time for some good old window protector, that super clear plastic covering. Every time you try to look out the window, you get that invisible cold shield

Geez, did I really need these polarized lenses for my prescription glasses to protect me from harmful winter UV rays? protector pressing against your face, but still, it helps lower your heating bill. Another good trick for those of you with wood stoves in the basement, is to use it occasionally and heat your home with the fuel that mother nature has placed in our backyards. Why bother heating with fuel that makes someone rich in a faraway country. Better still, make a wood pellet factory instead of looking for those remaining tree stands of dry old wood we prefer to use for cooking. Maybe pellets might be the way to go. About 2:30 in the afternoon, I notice the skies are getting darker as the sun puts its rays away for the next 16 hours. Geez, did I really need these polarized lenses for my prescription glasses to protect me from harmful winter UV rays? Or was it because I was fooled into believing that I would need them for downhill skiing in the Rockies, as that flashy advertisement informed me? But my skiing days are over, after a brief stint in the low hills of the Abitibi range. Now that was a dangerous downhill run as I learnt the hard

way, without any lessons. But I survived only to be heckled about it for the last four decades, so I’m okay with that. As many people might see, it’s also the time for animals to get ready for winter, like the ever-present ptarmigan. This smallish white bird has been a staple in our diet that I wouldn’t be surprised if there was a Bubba shrimp cook out there with just as many ptarmigan recipes. Anyone, a butter crisp-fried breast of ptarmigan with a side order of ptarmigan gumbo? Stuffed boneless à la française might be good for a long slow Sunday supper with wine drenched giblets sauteed in beef marrow. Or one of my favourites, ptarmigan broth French onion soup gratinée. No, stop me, I’m drooling over my keyboard. Okay, I overdid the winter woe stuff. Let’s brighten up and make the most of this season as winter does have a bright side to it – remember, snow is only frozen rain, and it will be gone in several months.

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 December 1, 2023

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www.underthenorthernsky.com

UTNS Protecting our elders should be a priority by Xavier Kataquapit

think most of us feel like we have been through several very weird years with the Covid pandemic, climate change events like the recent forest fire summer and, of course, the terrible wars raging in Ukraine and Gaza. I wish I could be more optimistic in looking towards the future, but it’s not easy. The best we can do is just put one foot in front of the other and go on with our lives while being as kind and considerate of others as possible. Personally, my big focus is with one day at a time, staying in recovery and maintaining my sobriety. I am looking at the coming winter with some concern as I hear reports of Covid variants in another wave of this pandemic as well as the flu and other sickness. My partner has a critical lung disease and was severely hit when we both got Covid last year. He is still recovering very slowly and will never be the same. I have what they refer to as long Covid which has triggered arthritis that flares up from time to time and it is thought to be connected to having had Covid or possibly the vaccine. My partner and I are isolating as much as possible while this period of sickness moves through our area once again. We have lost many over the past years to Covid and other diseases and we are fearful that we will lose more family and friends this winter. However, we have all just experienced a few years of figuring out just how serious Covid and the flu can be, so we should know how to stay safe. Part of keeping safe has to do with vaccines. But at this point I am not suggesting what individuals should do as there are still lots of concerning data we don’t know about regarding all these vaccines. It is best to check with your doctor.

I wish I could be more optimistic in looking towards the future, but it’s not easy We also know that being careful, having a good diet and getting regular exercise certainly helps in dealing with any disease that is circulating. It is important to realize that when it comes to Covid there are some good solid facts to know. According to the World Health Organization, over 53,000 Canadians have died from Covid. We also know that most of the deaths have been in older people and those with comorbidities. There have been very few deaths in younger people and most of the passings occurred in the 65-years-andover age category. There is also some thought that a certain amount of herd immunity is now in place and even with new variants serious disease is not being experienced with the young, middle-aged and healthy individuals. With all that information we should understand that if we care about our Elders and older people then we should be careful not to bring them in touch with Covid. Even if we are only talking about the seasonal flu, we have to realize that it kills mainly the elderly and those with health

issues. Depending on the Canadian government’s statistics from past years the flu kills at least 3,500 people a year that we know of and most of them are elderly. The thing is that we know it is important to keep Elders and all older people safe from dying of the flu by simply making sure they are not put in situations where they can pick up this contagious disease. That means staying away from Elders and older people and those who have health issues when we are sick. It is up to us during the flu season or a Covid wave not to sponsor and run events that draw Elders and older people together with the larger community. It might seem like a nice or kind idea to create social gatherings for Elders and older people, but is it worth taking the chance if it puts them in danger? Wouldn’t we all want to have a few more good years with these Elders and older people so we can benefit from their wisdom and share their time with grandchildren and family and friends when it is safe to do so? Keeping our Elders safe should be the priority.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR ᒑ ᒥᔻᔨᐦᑎᒫᒄ ᒑ ᐄᐙᔒᐅᒌᔑᑳᒡ ᑭᔮᐦ ᒑ ᒥᔻᔨᐦᑎᒫᒄ ᒑ ᐅᔅᒋᐱᐳᐦᒡ

the Nation December 1, 2023 www.nationnews.ca

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