August 26-28 ᐅᐦᐸᐦᐆᐲᓯᒻ 26-28
Oujé-Bougoumou, Eeyou Istchee ᐆᒉᐴᑰᒨ, ᐄᔨᔫ ᐊᔅᒌ JBNQA
1975-2025
United In Purpose | Honouring Our Past, Celebrating our Shared Journey ᐁ ᒫᒨᑳᐳᔨᐦᒄ | ᐁ ᒋᔅᑌᔨᐦᑕᒥᐦᒄ ᐊᓂᑌᐦ ᑳ ᐅᐦᑐᐦᑌᔨᐦᒄ ᐁ ᒥᔻᑎᒥᐦᒄ ᐆ ᐁ ᐄᔑ ᒫᒨᐱᒧᐦᑌᔨᐦᒄ
Annual General Assembly ᒣᔑᑯᒥᐱᐳᓐᐦ ᐁ ᒫᒨ ᓂᔥᑑᐧᐄᓈᓅᒡ
51st Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) 51 ᐃᑕᐦᑐᐱᐳᓐᐦ ᐐᓂᐯᑰᐄᔨᔫᒡ ᓅᐦᒋᒦᐅᐄᔨᔫᒡ ᐁ ᓈᑕᒫᑐᑣᐤ (ᐄᔨᔫ ᐊᔅᒌ)
48th Cree Nation Government 48 ᐃᑕᐦᑐᐱᐳᓐᐦ ᐄᔨᔫ ᑎᐯᔨᐦᒋᒉᓱ
CONTENTS EDITORIAL
10 Cree rapper Kong rocks Montreal
Opinion
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NEWS
Power of Indigenous Voices
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Ready to Lead
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BRIEFS FEATURES
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A Chance to Shine
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Memories of the Post
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Stepping Up
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UTNS
The 35th edition of the International First Peoples Festival
Remembering Summers
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Protest Walkers
Photo of ᐅᕙᓂ ᐱᒋᐊᕐᐳᖅ ᓄᓇᕕᒃ Grand Chief Paul John Murdoch ᐅᕙᓂ ᐱᒋᐊᕐᐳᖅ Nunavik Startsᓄᓇᕕᒃ Here Community Starts Here Nunavik
ᐅᕙᓂ ᐱᒋᐊᕐᐳᖅ ᓄᓇᕕᒃ ᐅᕙᓂ ᐱᒋᐊᕐᐳᖅ ᓄᓇᕕᒃ Nunavik Starts Here Nunavik Starts Here
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Editorial
Simple things by Will Nicholls
S
ometimes the simple things in life bring great joy… like fishing. Fishing has always been important to Canada’s Indigenous peoples. Among the Cree there was a saying. Fish was the first solid food you ate as a baby because it could be mushed up. It was also the last solid food you would have as an Elder for the same reason. In the past, fish made up at least 30% of our diet because this food source can be harvested throughout the entire year. They were a sustainable resource and an important one at that. When Hydro-Québec came in with their mega-projects the Cree were worried as fish-spawning areas were affected and methylmercury entered the food chain. After the problem was studied, people were told to eat only certain amounts and kinds of fish. Pregnant women were warned not to eat fish at all as it could affect their unborn children. However, we haven’t seen those warnings in a while. Some must wonder if they are still valid as newer studies say the risk is not as bad as in the past. Still, mercury can cause certain problems, the least of which is bad breath. If you have brushed your teeth, ask someone if your breath still smells terrible. Make sure you don’t take offense as it may not be your fault. There are other problems that your doctors might warn about. They include symptoms similar to Parkinson’s – hand tremors or poor psychomotor performance (like trouble walking and using your hands). The worst are mental problems. The toxic effects of mercury have been associated with neurological dys-
function, dementia and autoimmune diseases. A few years ago, the Cree Board of Health and Social Services noted a study which found that mercury exposure seems to affect heart rate variability among Cree adults, “even after considering fish nutrients (n-3 fatty acids and selenium) and other contaminants (lead and polychlorinated biphenyls) that are also present in the traditional diet of this population.” A low heart rate variability is considered a sign of current or future health problems. It shows that the body is less resilient and struggles to handle changing situations. It’s also more common in people who have higher resting heart rates. It’s also a good reason to get a check-up at your local clinic. Because
when your heart is beating faster, there’s less time between beats, reducing the opportunity for variability. This is often the case with conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart arrhythmia, asthma, anxiety and depression. Studies suggest that while we have higher mercury levels than southern Canadians, we are still well within the safe range for most people. Given that we have high rates of heart-related problems, Parkinson’s and cancer (as mercury can affect the immune and cardiovascular system) it may be too soon to tell the full extent of how long the mega-projects will affect the Cree people. Some simple things end up being not so simple, but we can all hope that fishing will still be there for our children.
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 MANAGING EDITOR Randy Mayer STORY COORDINATOR Patrick Quinn CONTRIBUTING WRITERS X. Kataquapit, P. Quinn, N. Fedosieieva, P. Leney DESIGN Matthew Dessner SALES AND ADVERTISING Donna Malthouse THANKS TO: Air Creebec CONTACT US: The Nation News, 918-4200 St. Laurent, Montreal, QC., H2W 2R2 EDITORIAL & ADS: 514-272-3077, 514-943-6191 HEAD OFFICE: P.O. Box 151, Chisasibi, QC. J0M 1E0 www. nationnews.ca EDITORIAL: will@nationnews.ca news@nationnews.ca ADS: 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.
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Editorial News
The Power of Indigenous Voices This year’s Innu Nikamu Festival was the most ambitious to date
by Natalia Fedosieieva Photo byore Maanuuhiikuu of Cree Board Health Social Services Bay described the festival as Iserhoff than 15,000Department people gathhere,” he of said. “It’s and a contrast of today,of James
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ered in Mani-Utenam, July 30 to August 3, for the 41st edition of the Innu Nikamu Festival, a celebration of Indigenous culture and healing on the grounds of a former residential school. This year’s event offered a dynamic mix of musical performances, community celebrations, family activities and the powwow of Uashat mak Mani-Utenam with traditional drumming and dancing. According to director Normand Jr. Thirnish Pilot, the festival continues the tradition of bringing together the Innu communities of Quebec and Labrador as well as other Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to share their culture through music and dance. “From the beginning to the end, it was amazing,” Pilot said. “We had a lot of artists who were not Indigenous, like Blue Rodeo and Damien Robitaille, and those artists lived an experience with us.” For the first time, the festival powwow was held on the same weekend as the concerts, drawing larger crowds. “Usually, the powwow is on the following weekend,” Pilot said. “But this year, we decided to hold them at the same time, to make something bigger and go deeper into the healing.” Pilot emphasized the significance of the event’s location, the site of the former Notre-Dame de Malioténam residential school, as a symbol of resilience and rebirth. “Each year it’s important for us to remember that a lot of tears were shed
seeing all those kids running everywhere, having fun, laughing – it’s a moving experience to witness.” Over 40 artists, along with powwow drummers, performed at the festival, making it the most ambitious to date. “We had two main stages for the first time, so we had a chance to present a lot more shows in one evening,” explained Pilot. “It’s about connection, celebration and showcasing the power of Indigenous voices, both new and established.” Among this year’s standout performers Pilot mentioned Matt Iserhoff, lead singer of acclaimed band CerAmony, who appeared as a solo act. “People were screaming with joy,” Pilot said. “For us, artists like Matthew are rock stars, we’re honoured to host them.” A multi-talented musician and cultural ambassador from Whapmagoostui, Iserhoff performed a strong set of original songs, and was joined by daughter Rain on two of them, adding an intergenerational element to the set. With over two decades of experience as a performer, producer and media professional, Iserhoff continues to champion the Cree language and culture through music and storytelling. At the festival, he did “10 loving songs, a couple of them from our CerAmony days as a band.” “I was surprised that I was asked to perform with my original material,” he said. “I was happy to say ‘yes, absolutely’. It was a lot of fun.”
“world-class,” highlighting the hospitality, organization and overall vibe. “It was an awesome experience,” he said. “People were great. We were well taken care of from the start all the way to the last day.” His songs in English and Cree are rooted in experience. “I do my best to represent wherever I go,” Iserhoff said. “I promote the language, I promote the culture, and I tell our stories.” One of the emotional highlights came at the end of the set when Iserhoff performed the song “The Last Great Men” with a former CerAmony bandmate. “We didn’t tell many people we were going to perform that one, it was a surprise,” Iserhoff stated. “It meant a lot to close with that song, and the crowd reaction said it all.” While the festival was founded as a showcase for Indigenous music and language, Iserhoff observed that it’s increasingly becoming a national and international platform. “They have opened spots for national Indigenous artists like DeeDee Austin, an incredible performer who was featured on Canada’s Got Talent. Plus, they had Innu singer-songwriter Mike Paul.” Iserhoff was honoured to be the only Cree performer at the event, and encouraged other Cree artists to step forward. “We have a lot of talented musicians enough to be at these festivals,” he said. “I want to see more Cree names out there. Believe in yourself and go for it.”
www.nationnews.ca August 22, 2025
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STRUGGLING WITH A CRIMINAL RECORD? HAVE YOU COMPLETED THE REQUIREMENTS OF YOUR SENTENCE AND PROBATION? YOU MAY BE ELIGIBLE FOR A PARDON THAT SEALS YOUR RECORD
by Patrick Quinn Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
WE CAN HELP YOU! If you are a Cree beneficiary, the Cree Nation Government (CNG) can help you to fill out the record suspension application and if you qualify for financial assistance, the CNG may pay the costs associated with the application.
CONTACT YOUR LOCAL REINTEGRATION OFFICER ON HOW TO APPLY: Chisasibi: Eastmain: Mistissini: Nemaska: Ouje-bougoumou: Waskaganish: Waswanipi: Wemindji: Whapmagoostui:
819-855-2120 819-977-2400 418-923-2661 819-673-2400 418-745-2260 819-895-2126 819-753-2770 819-978-3300 819-929-3796
If you have any additional questions, please contact the Correctional Services Regional Office in Val d’or 819-874-2600 or contact your local Reintegration Officer
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the Nation August 22, 2025 www.nationnews.ca
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inden Spencer was elected Deputy Grand Chief of the Cree Nation Government in the run-off election on August 1, overcoming John Henry Wapachee with 65% of votes. The 25-year-old former Youth Chief of Eastmain said he represents “a generation that’s ready to lead, not some day but now.” Spencer received more votes in every community except Nemaska, Waskaganish and Washaw Sibi. He had emerged as the clear front-runner in the initial election on July 17 with nearly 48% of votes but didn’t secure an absolute majority. Candidates Robin Gull-Saganash and Sammy Salt-Blacksmith did not advance to the runoff vote. As Deputy Grand Chief, Spencer joins newly elected Grand Chief Paul John Murdoch at the helm of the Cree Nation for the next four years. While he becomes the youngest ever to attain the position, supporters noted the young age of past leaders like Billy Diamond and Matthew Coon Come. “Young people showed that their voices matter,” Spencer told the Nation. “They’re ready to be part of shaping our Cree Nation’s future. That’s something I’ll carry with me in this role, making sure our youth have a seat at the table because their ideas and energy are exactly what we need now to move forward.” A former Junior A hockey player who played three seasons with the Timmins Rock, Spencer returned home after his mother passed away in 2019 and opened two businesses. He credits his father in helping develop his leadership capabilities, along with managing every project with Eastmain Excavation. To avoid potential conflicts of interest, Spencer is currently working with lawyers to remove himself from overseeing his companies. His business experience and conversations throughout Eeyou Istchee revealed an insufficient support system for Cree entrepreneurs.
News
Ready to Lead New Deputy Grand Chief Linden Spencer shows that youth voices matter
“Every entrepreneur has faced limited access for contracts, funding, long waits for permits,” explained Spencer. “We see outside companies that take all our contracts and don’t reinvest locally. Our entrepreneurs have the skill and ideas but they need a fair shot in a system that works with them, not against them.” Spencer said he’d push for transparent procurement processes that prioritize Cree businesses, mandatory community benefit agreements for external companies and stronger investment in local capacity, training and equipment. Asserting that local development corporations have only added to the competition, he wants them to better support community members. Politics was an unexpected development for Spencer. It was a surprise when he was nominated for Youth Chief of his community two years ago, and he waited until five minutes before the deadline before deciding to run. “I was still learning and sometimes unsure of myself,” Spencer admitted. “I learned that leadership is not about having all the answers. It’s about showing up, listening and doing the work, even when it’s hard. That experience shaped how I lead today.” The Eastmain Youth Council described Spencer as a dedicated leader who could always be relied upon for guidance, friendship and support. They
said his “passion, vision and heart will continue to inspire us all.” Spencer hopes his success will create opportunities for other youth to step forward. His experience with the Youth Council taught him how to handle pressure, bring people together and persevere through challenges. “The smallest ideas can turn into something,” suggested Spencer. “When you give people the tools and trust, they’ll make things happen. There were times we didn’t have the resources but we made it work by adapting and finding solutions.” Cree youth face challenges with mental health, violence, addiction and disconnection. Spencer said they’re feeling unheard, unsupported and unsure where they belong. He asserted that youth deserve more than encouragement and being told to wait their turn – they deserve the opportunity to lead. On the campaign trail throughout Eeyou Istchee, community safety and the housing crisis were frequent concerns. Some families are moving house to house or sleeping in teepees because there’s nowhere else to go. Spencer said there’s an urgent need to build more homes, free up land for residential development and establish shelters in every community that provide dignity, stability and space to grow. “We need to address today’s challenges while planning long-term so
our children and grandchildren inherit a stronger and more united Eeyou Istchee,” said Spencer. “Elders have taught me leadership is about listening. They remind us that every decision we make today will affect the next seven generations.” Along with greater access to healthcare resources and community-based wellness programs, he believes in strengthening traditional land-based programs that heal people from the inside out. “In every Cree community, I heard the same values that unite us,” Spencer said. “The care for our land, respect for each other and the importance of passing our language and culture on to our young people. Always remember where you come from and it will guide you in where you want to go.” With a fiancée and the oldest of his three children starting school this fall, Spencer plans to balance family life in Eastmain around a busy schedule. He wants to work closely with the Grand Chief, with whom he said he connects very well, and be transparent with the members of the Cree Nation. “I am grateful for every handshake, every story and every piece of advice or wisdom shared with me,” said Spencer. “I carry your hopes and concerns with me every day. Let’s keep walking side by side, building something stronger for the next generation.”
www.nationnews.ca August 22, 2025
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Congratulations to PAUL JOHN MURDOCH as our newly elected Grand Chief! Your leadership will be instrumental in guiding our community forward. We look forward to working with you to achieve our shared goals.
We are pleased to congratulate LINDEN SPENCER as our newly elected Deputy Grand Chief. Your commitment to our community is inspiring.
Briefs Jade Mukash elected Youth Grand Chief Jade Mukash was voted Youth Grand Chief of the Cree Nation Youth Council August 7, securing 52% of votes in a tight race with 21-year-old Mistissini council member Kevin-Joseph Mianscum. “This is not the end, it’s only the beginning,” declared Mukash. “This campaign was never just about getting elected. It was about building a movement rooted in Cree values, truth and unity.” The 26-year-old from Whapmagoostui has become an increasingly prominent voice since being named Miss Eeyou/ Eenou Iskwaau and participating in the inaugural Miss Indigenous Canada pageant. A week before the election, Mukash was honoured with a leadership award from her community. “I am forever inspired by our youth who overcome their challenges and reach for their biggest dreams,” Mukash declared. “At every level I have reached, I remind myself of the main purpose: to empower youth.” Mukash praised the courage of those stepping into leadership roles and the mutual support showcased throughout the campaign. She promised to lead with “integrity, transparency and care.” With no candidate gaining more than 50% of votes in the election for Deputy Youth Grand Chief, a run-off election was called for August 25 between
Darius Neacappo-Pelchat and Francine Matthew. NeacappoPelchat earned 42% of votes in the initial election, ahead of Matthew, Bob E. Diamond and Drayden Mistacheesick.
Drugs seized in Mistissini One suspect was arrested for drug trafficking and other charges in Mistissini August 9 after searches conducted by the Eeyou Eenou Police Force alongside Sûreté du Québec officers. Following investigations of home and vehicle, officers found 9.5 grams of a white powder believed to be cocaine, five firearms, nine liquor bottles, $2,045 in cash and various drug paraphernalia. The 37-year-old individual was released with a promise to appear in court in November. The community has been working police and other entities to respond to a rise in violence, vandalism and burglaries. An open letter from Chief and Council in June asked citizens to respect their youth curfew, report illegal activity and follow rules for stag and doe events. Peace guards were established to improve community safety.
Other cocaine busts have occurred in Waswanipi and Wemindji in recent months. Earlier this summer, a 17-yearold female was arrested for the murder of a 19-year-old male in Waswanipi and a 16-year-old was arrested in Nemaska for their alleged involvement in the death of a 17-year-old youth.
First Peoples’ Fest announces film awards The International First Peoples’ Festival has announced the winners of its annual film awards. The Teueikan Creative Award went to the historical action-adventure drama Ka Whawhai Tonu by Mike Jonathan from Aotearoa/New Zealand. Set during the conflict between colonial and Maori forces in 1864, the story is a coming-of-age romantic story of teenagers navigating complex political upheaval. Canuto’s Transformation by Brazilian directors Ariel Kuaray Ortega and Ernesto de Carvalho earned second prize. The film combines documentary context about a small Mbya-Guarani community with mythical ele-
ments of a man who has been turned into a jaguar. This year’s Rigoberta Menchu Community Award went to the Tsotsil resistance story Me Moría (Li Cham) by Ana Ts’uyeb from Mexico. Paige Bethmann’s Remaining Native won second prize, with Bring Them Home by Ivan MacDonald, Ivy MacDonald and Daniel Glick receiving honourable mention. Tasha Hubbard’s documentary Singing Back the Buffalo won the APTN Award for its portrayal of the emblematic animal’s rematriation to the heart of the North American plains. Argentinian director Laura Basombrio’s Las Almas took home the Les Films du 3 Mars’ best documentary award, with Katsi’tsakwas Ellen Gabriel winning the Canadian version for Deskaheh: Quest for Justice. Inkwo for When the Starving Return by Amanda Strong won Air Canada’s Matera Award for Indigenous filmmakers with international potential, which will be screened at an Italian film festival. Strong was also honoured for best animation. The Main Film Award for emerging talent went to Vientre de Luna (Moon Belly) by Liliana K’an of Mexico with honourable mention for Echoes Within by Pranami Koch of India. Short film awards went to Evelyn Pakinewatik’s On and On and On in the Canadian section, with the Colombian production Aribada earning the international award. A selection of these films will be available on TOU.TV this autumn.
www.nationnews.ca August 22, 2025
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Features
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he 35th edition of the International First Peoples Festival swept through Montreal August 5-14, branching out to new venues with a growing diversity of Indigenous creative expression. While downtown’s Place des Festivals remained the hub of activity, this year’s opening night was held in the Outremont borough with a drum ceremony from Kahnawa’kehró:non Elder Sedalia Fazio and a selection of short films. Australian artist and activist Bunna Lawrie, known as a Whale Songman of the Yinyila Nation, paid tribute to Montreal’s Indigenous roots ahead of his Song to the Whales international collaboration. His vocal simulations of whale sounds mesmerized audiences.
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“Imitating the whales, they love that,” said Lawrie. “It lights up their life to know they have humans out there who really love them.” Powwow group Manitou Singers opened each evening’s major concert while Mohawk and Wendat traditional song and dance was performed every afternoon. As a heat wave gripped the city, kids played in fountains surrounding a turtle installation amidst towering illuminated teepees, a skate park, artisan kiosks and artwork by Christine Sioui. “It’s important that these kids are shown the importance of Indigenous culture,” said Seayenna Fontaine Lee, who was invited to operate Native Montreal’s summer day camp at the fest. “The diversity is really cool, because all the kids are from
CHANCE TO SHINE
Cree super-rapper Kong rocks Montreal’s First Peoples Fest by Patrick Quinn Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
different nations. They see themselves in some of the Elders and artists.” The best of international Indigenous cinema competed for the festival’s prestigious awards. Highlights included opening short Midnight at the Lonely River by Abraham Côté from Kitigan Zibi, who got his start with Wapikoni Mobile; Inkwo, an animated film by Dene filmmaker Amanda Strong; and Mexican short Vientre de la luna, the first film by Tsotsil director Liliana K’an. Inuit culture was featured in “Slow TV” documentary series Sanajiit (Inuit Makers) and When the Birds Return, an exhibition from 25 Inuit artists on view at La Guilde until September 13. Other Indigenous exhibits and concerts were presented throughout August, including film screenings in Kahnawake in collaboration with the Eastern Connection Film Festival. Along with the world premiere of Florent Vollant: Innu, screened at Outremont Theatre on August 8, Innu music was featured on the main stage the following night with www.nationnews.ca August 22, 2025
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performances by Maten, Shauit and Native Mafia Family. A unique concert entitled Les passeurs showcased the songs of Atikamekw Elder Jacques Newashish and Wendat artist Andrée Lévesque-Sioui on August 10, accompanied by the band Forestare. Portland-based “powwow punk rockers” 1876 rocked the Place des Festivals August 8, representing the Northern Cheyenne and Blackfeet Nations. Opening the show was CreeNaskapi rapper Kong, better known as Steve Einish at his day job with the Cree Nation Youth Council. “That is a dream come true for me to share who I am at a festival like this in Montreal,” said Einish. “Even though I’ve done shows with bigger audiences, this one brought me back to humble myself.” Reminiscing about watching Algonquin rapper Samian on the same stage years ago, Einish didn’t imagine that one day he’d have such an opportunity. Kong has had a mighty rise 12
the Nation August 22, 2025 www.nationnews.ca
since securing an opening gig for G-Unit star Tony Yayo in 2023, following that up with shows alongside big names like Lloyd Banks, Method Man, Redman, Flo Rida and Afroman. His initial contact with the First Peoples Festival last year was disappointing. It was suggested he perform songs in Cree rather than English. However, after sharing the “Chiiyaanuu” music video earlier this summer, featuring CJAY GRiZ and shot at the 2024 Eeyou Istchee Summer Games, the festival reached out to him. “I didn’t let it bring me down, continued making music from the heart,” Einish told the Nation. “I put my experiences in the music, stuff I’ve been through. I’m being real and honest – you can’t fake the funk, you know?” Montreal saw the “Kong and Friends” version of the artist, with rappers like Kahnawake’s Will E. Skandalz getting the opportunity to shine at the mic. Einish said that’s just how he is,
getting his start in the industry as the manager of Naskapi duo Violent Ground. “I started as a person trying to help other artists reach their goals,” explained Einish. “The pandemic happened and we kind of drifted apart, but we’re talking of future features we’ll be working on. I started creating my own stuff in the pandemic and here we are.” After the summer’s shows, including a short set at Chisasibi’s 90s dance with MC Mario, Einish plans to complete an album. He’s hoping to release it by next summer, with a tour of cities and reserves across Canada to follow. Einish’s message hits with more impact because he’s from the region and overcame significant adversity to reach his dreams. “I grew up with what they’re dealing with,” said Einish. “I try to inspire youth to think bigger than what’s in the reserve and not think whatever they’re going through is the end of the
world. What I’m doing now is like my third chance in life and I’m just trying not to ruin it.” After Einish’s mother died when he was 15, he passed through group homes, foster care and juvenile detention before landing in prison. With a troubled past in Whapmagoostui, it was especially meaningful to perform for the inaugural Whapmagoostui Day celebration on August 4. He slowed it down for a final dedication to loved ones lost with an emotional version of “I’ll Be Missing You.” As many tearfully held up their phones and waved their hands, Einish reflected on how his home community that used to send him south to prison was now flying him up. A week later he was on one of Indigenous music’s biggest stages in Montreal. “I made the full circle back and I apologized to my community,” Einish shared. “I showed them what I can do, how I changed my life around. That was magic, that feeling.” www.nationnews.ca August 22, 2025
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Earlysummer summerthoughts thoughts Early
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It landed left.my Ohcigarette well, I guess I’ll have to be out extra lunch. the chance to go to our cabin and build an on the ground. I flick anywhere. I check and inspected It landed and it thecareful whensee I have my smoke. outdoor fire spouse without and worrying setpond and cracked dried-up mud As for my family,about having before flying itoff is all that’s inspected The cool offshore wel- theting off the next environmental catastroleft. Oh well, Ibreezes guess I’llare have chance to go to our cabin and build an to a cluster before flying of to coming the summer phe just my marshmallow treat issetburnt be extraas careful when I season have myapproachsmoke. outdoor firesowithout worrying about tiny on a es and the spring migration ends. This just right. It’s safe now as the rains have off toflowers a cluster The cool offshore breezes are wel- ting off the next environmental catastroblueberry bush. afternoon, large flocks of the greater dampened the ground just enough not to of tiny flowers coming as the summer season approach- phe just so my marshmallow treat is burnt Ionwonder if this a blueberry long-neck ignite than skin esCanada and thegoose spring (aka migration ends. geese) This just right.anything It’s safe that nowisaswarmer the rains have year’s bush. Iharvest wonderwill afternoon, tease the large hunterflocks in me. of Should I rush out dampened temperature. the greater the ground just enough not to be as bountiful if this year’s Canada after work to get hours ofgeese) hunting ignite Ianything have some goose (akaa few long-neck that issummer warmer preparation than skin as last year’s harvest will beas tease in, orthe just relaxinand wait for the weekend work to do. The list includes cleaning up hunter me. Should I rush out temperature. we unknowingly as bountiful as to arrive. the yard, changing my winter tires, takafter work to get a few hours of hunting I have some summer preparation depend on these last year’s as I lean towards patience and timing, as ing down the remaining Christmas lights, in, or just relax and wait for the weekend work to do. The list includes cleaning up tiny insects to we unknowingly I know this is just the start and other franclean and vacuum my car, oil and grease to arrive. the yard, changing my winter tires, takkeep natural dependour on these ticI lean hunters are patience probablyand having similar kids’the bicycles, change the winter towards timing, as ingthe down remaining Christmas lights,oil garden alive. tiny insects to thoughts. Most likely, this year’s hunting in all my vehicles, and finally, stock up on I know this is just the start and other franclean and vacuum my car, oil and grease watch keepI our naturalthe season will be very quick and getting windshield wiper fluid. tic hunters are probably having similar the kids’ bicycles, change the winter oil bee it busigardenasalive. out to your hunting spot is a priority. My thoughts. Most likely, this year’s hunting in all my vehicles, and finally, stock up on Surprisingly, I don’t need to get more ly works thethe tiny I watch will wrestle be verywith quickmyand getting wiper fluid. thoughts logic, and I windshield bug sprays as last year’s stock was barely flowers before bee as it busily it season heads deeper into works the tiny the underbrush. flowers before Relieved that I’m it heads deeper not target forThe aCree Cree IELCC Fund The IELCC Fund is is into athe underdeadly Idesigned conbrush. sting, Relieved designed fund toto fund tinue harvesting that I’m notprojects/activities that foster projects/activities that foster the labrador a target for tea, a education, Cree culture Cree culture which I drink onthe deadly sting,the I aeducation, daily basis. and language, well and language, asas well asas continue harThe the earthlaband vesting health and wellbeing health and wellbeing ofof moss are very rador tea, whichdry children 0 to 6 and their children 0 to 6 and their and crackle under I drink on a daily my boots. The families. families. basis. normally soggy The earth caribou mossare just and moss All projects and activities All projects and activities crumbles with very dry and must also ensure that must also ensure that nono each step. under I realize crackle
Theworld world The hastotowait wait has forthe the for unbreakable unbreakable zipper zipper
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Memories
of the Post
Cree Elders remember their summers in Oskelaneo by Peter Leney 16
O
n a remote railway across mid-Quebec wilderness, a tiny settlement called Oskelaneo rose and fell within a lifetime in the 20th century. Its melodious name gets little recognition now, but in its time, Oskelaneo played a part in the chief romantic adventures of Canadian history – impulsive railway building, a gold rush, the fur trade, bush aviation, and contact with Indigenous people. Location largely created its bustling economy. The National Transcontinental Railway (now part of CNR) intersected here with a far-reaching water route north over the height of land into the Hudson Bay watershed, on to Mistissini and down the Rupert River to James Bay.
the Nation August 22, 2025 www.nationnews.ca
For prospectors seeking gold in the Chibougamau region in the 1920s, the first step was to buy a train ticket to Oskelaneo, then proceed north by canoe. The Hudson’s Bay Company used the route to supply its inland northern posts. Recreational canoeists launched here for trips as far as James Bay. But an especially colourful impact on Oskelaneo came from large numbers of inland James Bay Cree who canoed south on the route in summer in the 1930s and 1940s. Their practical goal was to buy winter provisions at cheaper prices along the railway and earn income freighting goods north for the HBC. In time, though, the experience evolved into a family holiday with many camping for weeks to shop, visit friends, feast, wed and enjoy Oskelaneo diversions such as cowboy movies, square dancing and watching the evening train arrive daily with the rest of the town. The Cree visitors numbered over 500, as reported in the Quebec Diocesan Gazette in 1941 by an Anglican missionary. “The encampment was a family affair as the squaws [sic] and children had all made the long journey down by canoe.” Communion was taken by over 300 and “brightness was added to the gatherings” by three weddings and a feast of roast moose. By this estimate, the Cree far outnumbered the resident population estimated at around 100. Observers said the island where they camped in Lake Oskelaneo was white with their canvas tents. I considered writing about the water route, and no story would be complete without learning from Cree participants how they enjoyed Oskelaneo and their 100-mile-plus summer journey. In 1998, I interviewed several Cree who went to Oskelaneo, but I never wrote the intended story, mainly because I lacked the canoe skills to experience it myself. Also, my information seemed too scattered to assemble into a flowing story. But some two decades later, I pulled out the interview transcripts and was impressed with their revelations.
Smally Petawabano was my first Cree contact. He was a former Mistissini band chief and an early Oskelaneo voyageur who spoke English, having gone to school for two years. Almost 30 years after the interview, I recall a well set, good-humoured man, thoroughly easy-going, patient with my questions, and ready with solid answers. Petawabano said he was only six when he first paddled what they called the “railroad route.” His job was to help his father by carrying paddles and rifles on portages. He was proud to recount that “my father [Jean-Baptiste] was known as the greatest paddler and the strongest portage carrier ever known, able to carry 1150 pounds for 27 feet or something. That’s how I learned to carry loads.” He recalled that Oskelaneo already looked like a ghost town in the 1940s. But it had a theatre showing cowboy and Indian movies. “Of course, Indians got slaughtered. I said, what kind of Indians are they, getting beat by white people? It should be the other way around,” Petawabano commented. The train’s arrival was the main town entertainment for both visitors and residents. “Everyone was there to see who was getting off,” Petawabano said. “It was nice to see. When the train left, you’d go to bed.” Residents recall visitors’ alarm as the train came round the bend, huffing and showering sparks. “They all took off, hiding behind things, then came out slowly,” said resident Allen Edwardson, who noted that the Cree called the train a “fire machine” (shoute taban). So, did the people run and hide? “Well, it was something,” said Petawabano. “It was frightening because you could feel the ground shaking. People were scared.” They also fled the sight of seaplanes that flew mining exploration equipment to Chibougamau from Oskelaneo. “When the first plane came in, everyone took off into the bush to watch from there. This thing landed on water! That was the biggest day they ever had: how can a machine fly without flapping its wings?” I asked about their dramatic entrance into Oskelaneo in a long single file of
canoes tied together and towed by a canoe with motor. It was reported in the Quebec Diocesan Gazette in 1943 as “an arresting sight to see the Indian families and groups arriving in their canoes, sweeping up Oskelaneo River into the lake and landing on Indian Point to put up their tents and greet their friends.” Edwardson likened it to emulating a line of geese. Petawabano said the striking arrival was on purpose. Families, who had travelled the route in small groups to avoid jamming up portages, came together on approaching Oskelaneo to make the dramatic entrance. “We wanted to show the white man that we always stayed together – like holding hands together,” he said. “According to my grandfather, by staying together, you could be stronger than any other person, especially if you fight for something.” And while the simple explanation for going to Oskelaneo was to buy cheaper supplies, Petawabano gave a more human motivation. “People liked to work hard in those days. They didn’t like to come out of the bush in June and sit around all summer because you get sloppy. “So, they say, there’s work to be done – get our supplies from Oskelaneo, it took us a month and a half and when we got back, we were in top shape and ready to go back into the bush.” Petawabano stressed that the railroad route was not easy. Without a major river to follow, where rapids could be run, it was interspersed with small creeks with many portages, especially on the homeward trip when water was low and their canoes were loaded down with their personal supplies and those freighted for the HBC. An idea of the scope of HBC freighting work is given in the Oskelaneo post journal dated July 6, 1934: “Loaded 22 canoes with 20,341 lbs of freight for Mistassini and Chibougamau.” Petawabano, who died at age 76 in 2010, remembered little alcohol drinking because the RCMP watched over bootleggers and the Cree couldn’t take a chance on landing in jail when they
www.nationnews.ca August 22, 2025
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Puzzles
were expected to come home with win- has to take his family. Women have to large boats to travel between the railway ter supplies. help their Crossword husband carry stuff over the village and the Gouin by Reservoir. Margie E. Burke However, other witnesses such as portages –ACROSS so many portages.” A petition to Ottawa noted the 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 that 12 13 Edwardson recall parties and dancing What was on class her shopping list? water route is “very much used by every1 Social 15 16 14 6 Temps “pretty near every night” with every- “Well, all kind of junk,” she laughed. one here,” including fishermen taking 18 19 17 10 Get rough body coming together. They were good “Plaid material to make our dresses, out fish from the Gouin Reservoir, timber 14 Big name in 22 20 21 ere’s another edition of fiddlers (naming Freddy Mianscum) and coats, sweaters, whatever we find, like harvesters, forest rangers, the Hudson’s kitchen foil revellers enjoyed square puzzle dances and looking boots.” Bay Company, prospectors and tour23 24 Ron Howard the Nation’s page.nice fancy 15 role was its own adventure. western dances, plus one called the The trip home ists. “Please note also that hundreds of 27 28 29 25 26 Try your hand at Sudoku 16 Place for “duck dance” named for ducking under “We didn’t go straight home, we Indians travel these waters from breakportraits 30 31 32 33 34 35 or Str8ts or our Crossword, or betarms. sometimes17stayed one place for two- up to freeze-up.” Formerinfillies 36 37 38 female were all on three holiday to Lowest go fishing or hunting on the But the plaintive cry was not heard. ter“They yet, solve andthere,” send usthree days 18 voice 41 39 40 Edwardson said. way back,” she recalled. “Sometimes it This blow came a decade after anotha photo!* As always, the answers 20 Putting before Another witness to the Cree visits was was too windy, and we couldn’t go on the er economic hope fizzled out. A boom in 42 43 44 22 Ease from last issue arevillage’s here for you lake. Sometimes Ben Midlige, son of the founder it would rain for twopulpwood harvesting gave Oskelaneo 23 Amazon 48 49 45 46 47 assistant to check and informalyour mayorwork. John Happy Midlige. The three days, and you had to stay where a feel of revival through the 1950s. The 50 51 52 53 54 24 Floor specialists “Mistassini couldn’t keep on going.” Mistissini Cree who earlier canoed to hunting. crowd,” Ben told me, were you were. You 25 One of TV's 57 56 a “very healthy lot, fine looking Indians Gunner died at age 8455in 2013; a Oskelaneo for summer shopping now Ewings and very religious Anglicans. We would weathered,27 wooden cross 58marks her flew59down to cut pulp,60creating spending Mica or quartz Urgent notice at Mistissini. see a woman in the store pregnant, she grave in the30old cemetery in town. 62 63 61 32 Reykjavík would goPREVIOUS home to have the baby and A view of shopping congestion is But the pulpwood cutting ended SOLUTION: language Copyright 2025 by The Puzzle Syndicate come back that afternoon.” post journal dated around 1959, leading to the shutdown of Solution to Crossword: given in the36Oskelaneo Workout focus when 9, 1940: “There are now62 over Oskelaneo’s HBCevent store,34 according 37 UV stopper Rams'300 ma'ams 10 "Survivor" Composerto its BMidlige E T Arecalls A that R I the D Cree, O M E G July A 38 "Junk Roaring 11 Berry ofGerard "Die Lafontaine. Stravinsky they firstI came, oranges in town andbegets when 100 63 or more tryTwenlast manager Without Shadn’t A N seen E R A D I Indians X O L N junk" acronym ties auto Another Day" 35 "Roger that" I M S andI didn’t N D E C Ihow S Ito V to E jam into the store at one time, we have fanfare, the flag was lowered on July 31, andA bananas know 39 Bible division 12 Marrying locale 37 Yemen's S Tof E our L hands full.” T E And E Rwhen A Gthey E gotH aOcase eatSthem. 1962,13ending run of 36 years. 41 Fable writer DOWN Sneakya tactics neighbor E N Git Iwas N liquor. E E drink, S L A KikTsoft they thought Cree from Ouje-Bougoumou Lafontaine, who mayor of 42 Aid to motorists 1 also Armyhad outpost 19 Indian yogurt dip was 40 Blood line I M thought M O Rthey T AgotL tight,” U R S 44 Be nosy 2 Winglike 21 VII tripled 41 Fictional “They really he N fond memories. Interviews with Elders Senneterre when I met him in 1993,mouse fond45 Sailor's direction 3 Some roller 24 "The Tell-___ 43 "___ whiz!" I D E R E A Helen L O “It S was G O mind O Dover S said. matter.” Sharl, Elizabeth Dixon and Robert ly recalled the good life in Oskelaneo, 48 Parting word coaster riders Heart" (Poe 45 Orbital point N O T N I L C I A K I N I also spoke with Evadney Gunner, Bosum highlight the social aspect of “living right in the bush, but with 50 Drapery fold 4 Exam for some poem) 46 Watery snowthe A L A C A R T E S A V O R Y WordItonwas manyan occasion immigrants 25 Agreement 47 Electrical another Oskelaneo visitor remembered Oskelaneo 51 visits. to convenience of the train.” Y O L O L Y N C H P I N Christmas 5 Least difficult 26 Skin pioneer for her youthful beauty and talent as meet friends they didn’tcards often see. But onlysoftener about 60 people were left in S T E L L A S O C K S 55 "Objection!" 6 Like well28 Desktop 49 French movie English interpreter. At my visit, she Arriving in Oskelaneo, people “would 1962, he said. They were mostly retired A N G E L I N A K A N S A S response adjusted dogs graphics houses lived us and the most memorable thing or on29 welfare. “The important towns57 Beginning 7 Privy to Many-legged 51 Nibble away A Lof E greet S O with C E aAsister N S on P an R island A Y south Emerald ___ good8 to Croonin' insects 52 Painter Magritte Mistissini theKWaconichi that 58 people were eachCrosby people had left, except for John Midlige, A G ARiver R camp. T EA A was S C L O– C 59 Mr.friendly Peanut prop 9 Workout Withdrew 53 "Chicago" boat and how they were,” said who 31kept to himself and followedactor his R allowed E N O visitors E Dto D other Y H tied U NupKonSshore 60 Apprehensive segment 33 Hands out 54 River of Hades row to the island. Sharl. “We’d set up camp and meet stocks.” (Midlige died in 1970.) 61 Herring's cousin 56 Bar stock Gunner was a big woman, bursting people from all over such as Mistassini, A few years later, the end came for with good humour and delighted to talk Obedjiwan and Chibougamau.” the Oskelaneo River railway station, built about Oskelaneo. “We liked that place,” Bosum added, “The family always in the 1920s to meet the “expected rush she said. looked forward to going to Oskelaneo of prospectors and mining men to the The railroad route was more than a every July. We wouldSUDOKU go for a month or famed Chibougamau gold fields.” STR8TS shopping supplies two. I -think attraction The post office Previousstraggled solution - Easy on until Previous solution Tough the main No. No. 761 trip to get their winter Medium 761 was the Medium 4 6 7 2 3 of flour, sugar and more. inexpensive food and meeting friendly September 1973. 3 1 8 4 7 6 9 5 2 2 8 5 5 7 9 3 2 1 8 6 4 3 14567832 8 “We didn’t just grab whatever we2 3 people.” Oskelaneo’s 4 name on 2 6 9 8 5remains 1 7 3 1 6 5 9 8 7 9 2 6 1 3 5 4 8 7 6 3 5 4 6 8 7 9 1 store and 8 go home. We’d found in the Oskelaneo trips faded away when Quebec maps along the lonesome rail8 4 5 2 9 7 6 3 1 8 2 3 4 7 6 5 1 6 3 8 5 4 7 2 going 9 3 4 7 8for 6 Mistissini hang was on 8 started5 coming 4 2 way7line, as if something 4 around in the little town for a5 2 supplies 6 8 4 7 3 9 2 1 5 2 3 4 5 month, month and a half,” Gunner96 71 in by Canso plane (giant amphibious there. But except for a few customers of 8 5 2 3 4 6 7 1 5 29 35 17 51 64 82 43 98 76 9 2 7 4planes) 5 3 or by a new road from Lac recounted. “We would walk around, go 6 cargo a fishing and hunting outfitter, the melody to beat Str8ts – 6 9 8has2ceased, noToCree 8go visit people, 6 3 or goHow completegather Sudoku, fill to the watch to the restaurant, Saint-Jean to Chibougamau. Oskelaneo’s Like Sudoku, no single number can board by entering numbers 1 to 9 repeat in any row or column. But... such that each row, column and to the dancing declined and all my contacts 3 the water route the evening1train, 6 place,1 things like that.rows andpopulation columns are divided by black and 3x3 box contains every number squares into compartments. These The men to the railway lost its voyagers.1 Oskelaneo’s story have to be filled in with numbers that 6 4who5 helped9tell uniquely. 7 went out on the lake, fished 2 andneed complete a ‘straight’. A straight is a set dried and smoked fish. As Oskelaneo slid into obscurity in passed on. For many strategies, hints and of numbers with no gaps but can be in tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org 4 2 any order, in black While Petawabano described theeg [4,2,3,5]. 1960s,Clues residents saw 3possible2 salcells remove that number as an option you like Str8ts check out our writer based in Bedford, a largely 9male-only trip, Gunner vation in building or repairing and column, and are not part 4 locks and 9 Peter Leney 2 is a Ifbooks, 7 5 said,in that row iPhone/iPad Apps and of any straight. Glance at the solution to much more on our store. You can find more help,like tips and at www.str8ts.com The solutions be published here Q in uebec the next issue. “Women don’t tohints stay behind. A man dams the Oskelaneo River,will allowing see how ‘straights’on are formed. 18
the Nation August 22, 2025 www.nationnews.ca
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Community
Stepping Up Indigenous youth rally celebrates protestors’ arrival in Toronto by Xavier Kataquapit Photo provided by Conrad Iahtail
F
irst Nation youth welcomed the arrival of the Mahmo Inninuwuk Wiibuseego-stamok protest walkers at Queen’s Park in Toronto August 8. The protestors completed a 22-day, 700-kilometre walk from Timmins at a rally along with First Nation youth groups Youth Rising Together and Okiniwak. The walk and gathering were organized by these youth movements to show their opposition to Ontario’s Bill 5 and Canada’s Bill C-5. These government bills prioritize resource development over environmental assessments and consultation requirements. They also fast-track projects in special economic zones, many of which are in First Nation territories. At Queen’s Park, they were greeted with a traditional pipe ceremony led by Conrad Iahtail (Nahpaysh Miishenish Aisipi), of Attawapiskat and traditional drum performances. “It was an emotional arrival for us all as it was a very powerful journey where we made so many connections,” said walker Tristan Ashishkeesh from Attawapiskat. “We wanted to take part in a grassroots movement that represents First Nation youth and show everyone that we are only answerable to our ancestors, our Kookooms and Mooshooms and to the Creator. We are not tied to any political organization which is why we created this movement because we
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only have our voice and the fire within us,” he said. Ashishkeesh stepped away from his position at the Ojmibway Cree Cultural Centre in Timmins as he felt that he could more freely take a stand against government legislation through a grassroots movement. At the event, he was joined by other youth leaders and his grandmother
the Nation August 22, 2025 www.nationnews.ca
Angela Ashishkeesh, a residential school survivor from Attawapiskat. Elder Ashishkeesh gave an emotional speech in English and Cree to show her support for the youth. The rally was attended by Attawapiskat Chief Sylvia KoostachinMetatawabin and Mushkegowuk Council leaders Grand Chief Leo Friday and Deputy Grand Chief Amos Wesley.
Mahmo Inninuwuk Wiibuseego-stamok (meaning “Uniting the People to Stand Together”) is headed by organizers Tristan Ashishkeesh, Sage Iahtail, Craig Koostachin and Todd Spence. They were also supported by Konstantinov Wesley, Rick Cheechoo, April Atlookan and many other family, friends and supporters. Deputy Grand Chief Mike Metatawabin of Nishnawbe-Aski Nation joined the walkers at the start of their journey. Over their 22-day journey, walkers were supported by the communities of Apitipi Anicinapek, Matachewan, Temagami and Nipissing, as well as organizations and businesses including Canadore College, the North Bay Indian Friendship Centre and Big Canoe Indigenous Market. Okiniwak is a First Nation youth movement founded by Ramon Kataquapit of Attawapiskat and Kohen Mattinas of Lac Seul First Nation. Their movement has been at the forefront of events to heighten public awareness of Indigenous displeasure of government legislation that would affect the future of First Nation communities. “We held this rally to welcome the youth walkers from Timmins and to also bring together Indigenous northern youth and urban youth as a show of solidarity,” said Kataquapit. “We hold these rallies to give a platform to the youth to speak to the world without having to go through any chief or any organization, so that our message can be directly heard.” Unfortunately, Okiniwak co-leader Mattinas could not attend the event, but stated in a phone interview, “We want to show everyone that we are stepping up; we are the noise makers and that through unity we strengthen our voices. We are not waiting our turn to speak, we are taking a stand now to protect the land and our rights to ensure that not just First Nation youth, but future generations are represented.” Youth Rising Together is a movement based mainly in Timmins and led by Katherine Jeremiah-Génier, Keira Spence and Shem Mattinas. Spence, from Moose Cree, said, “We wanted to add our voice to this rally and let everyone know how these bills will negatively affect our communities in the Treaty Nine territory.” “I come from a family of leaders and their legacy has always inspired me to take a stand for our communities,” said Mattinas, who is part of Moose Cree and Attawapiskat. “Our main message is to ask all governments to listen to our communities, especially our youth and our Elders. The proper way to go about making major decisions is to consult with those people that will be most affected by any changes.”
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Under the Northern Sky
Off-reserve members can finally vote
by Xavier Kataquapit
M
y home community of Attawapiskat First Nation is holding a local election August 29. It is an exciting time not just for those living in the community but for those members, like myself, who live in southern cities and towns away from the James Bay coast. This will be the first election that off-reserve members who don’t reside in the community will have the opportunity to vote for their leadership. Although off-reserve voting had occurred in previous elections, it was in a very limited capacity. This time, election officials will travel to Timmins on August 18, Sudbury on August 20, North Bay on August 21, Kingston on August 23, Cochrane on August 25 and Moosonee on August 27. As plans are being finalized, members are being asked to stay in contact with election officials and to monitor notices provided on the Facebook group pages “ACB - Attawapiskat Community Bulletin” and the newly created group page “Attawapiskat First Nation Election 2025”. Many First Nations across the country are now implementing ways to allow their membership wherever they live to take part in community elections. Fort Albany conducted a byelection for two band councillors in October 2024 using One Feather, an Indigenous tech and services
This faded historical photo features my grandfather James Kataquapit who was Chief of Attawapiskat in 1945. Here we see him standing with a hat and pin signifying his leadership. His wife Janie Kataquapit is standing at the door. Chief Kataquapit was also a veteran of the First World War. From L-R are his children: Thomas, Marius, Celine, David, Gabriel and Alex. Missing are brothers George and Leo.
company located in Victoria, BC, that provides secure digital voting services for any individual regardless of their location. Hopefully, communities like Attawapiskat can take advantage of services like this. In this election for Attawapiskat leadership, there are an estimated 3,035 eligible voters. About two thirds of voters reside in the community and the remainder are off-reserve members. I remember growing up in Attawapiskat and witnessing the excitement of our local elections. Into the early 1990s, there was no internet, no cable TV and radio broadcasts were limited to just a few hours of air time with Wawatay Radio. Everyone was always looking for something exciting to do in the community and when elections rolled around, voters took part as one mass gathering. It was usually multiple events over a month in the summer as nominations had to be held first to select candidates. These events at the old JR Nakogee Elementary
School would be packed with almost the entire community. As children, we always knew something big was happening when we saw our normally quiet and conservative Elders standing up to cheer, clap and call out their candidates and promote 20-year-old them to everyone. The position of Chief of the community for 2025 will be chosen from the following five candidates: incumbent Chief Sylvia Koostachin-Metatawabin, Raphael Bonez Wheesk, Paul Wesley, Conrad Iahtail and David Freitag Nakogee. I was happy to take part in the nomination process on line and to see the long list of candidates who will be working towards the additional positions of one Deputy Chief and 11 Council members. I wish all the candidates for the election the best of luck in everything they do. I know that even if they don’t achieve their positions, they will still play roles in our local leadership and in supporting our community.
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