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March 2004 Métis Matters Elder's Prayer Walk tall as the trees 1. Up Coming
2. Updates
3. Métis Interest
4. Share a Prayer Up Coming Matters Foundation of Alberta offers scholarships to students Métis Matters is proud to offer it’s first series of scholarships to Métis students throughout the province of Alberta. “We want to encourage students to achieve high grades, stay in school and contribute to the community,” stated Felice Gladue, President of the Foundation. “ It is with this in mind that we are giving three monetary scholarships based on academic achievement, school attendance, and community involvement.” » For an application
The Friday entertainment program includes a dance performance featuring the Edmonton Métis Cultural Dance Society, a Métis fashion show and a jigging, singing and fiddling competition. Supper will be at 5:30 p.m. with opening address and performances at 6:00 p.m. The talent show will begin at 8:00 p.m. For more information call Nancy at 780-751-3252 or Louise at 780-751-3306. The Saturday educational program includes a Métis dance workshop beginning at 10:00 a.m. Registration includes a lunch. The cost is $10 per person or $25 for a family of three or more. To register call Cathy at 780-751-3241 or email Wilcox@yourfuture.ab.ca. This event is sponsored by the Northern Lakes College, Métis Nation of Alberta Region V and the Provincial Métis Nation of Alberta. Live in Slave Lake? Need a ride to the celebration? The Region V Métis Nation of Alberta office in Slave Lake is providing bussing to the Northern Métis Celebration in Grouard for youth, adults and seniors. The bus will make a series of stops along the way before arriving in Grouard. The bus will leave the Slake Lake office at 3:30 p.m. on March 5, 2004. If you would like to get on the bus in Slave Lake or be picked up along the way to Grouard, call 780-849-4654 to reserve your spot on the bus.
If you would like NAIT programs delivered in your community, please call Stephen Crocker, Manager, Aboriginal Training Programs at 780-378-5035 or email scrocker@nait.ab.ca. Visit the NAIT website at www.nait.ab.ca/.
Tickets are $125.00 each or $1,250.00 for a table of ten, please contact Helen or Grace at 479-8195 for more information to order call 1-877-471-2171 or 780-479-8195. Our website address is www.iaaw.ca/ or email us at esquao@iaaw.ca.
The National Conference for Métis Nation Rights and Self Government will be taking place from March 11 - 13, 2004 at the Shaw Conference Centre in Edmonton Alberta. The objectives of this conference are: to educate the Métis public on the issues related to Métis Nation rights and self-government; to bring the legal and academic community together to consider the issues and to prepare papers on those issues; to engage an informed Métis public in setting strategies and directions for the future; to inform/educate the federal and provincial governments on Métis Nation rights and self-government; to attract future academics to the study of Métis rights and self-government and issues across sectors; to provide Métis leadership to all stakeholders; to explore forums and strategies for the further recognition and protection of Métis rights; to consult Métis Nation citizens on all matters related to Métis nation rights and self-government; and to explore co-existence and co-jurisdiction within Canada. For full details about the conference including speakers and registration costs visit: http://www.metisnation.ca/. Learning Together for Success: Aboriginal Education Conference The seven themes to be covered are 1) Supporting Aboriginal Students, 2) Strategies for Success, 3) Partnerships: a Holistic View of Education, 4) Aboriginal Cultural Teachings, 5) The Role of the Aboriginal Liaison Worker, 6) Promoting Parental Involvement, and 7) Promoting Community Involvement. Also, if you are an artist or artisan, and you would like to promote and sell your crafts, please contact us. Organizations interested in networking and displaying their services, are also invited to attend. To register, or find out more information, please contact Bernadine Grant, Conference Coordinator, at 780-492–0391, or toll free at 1-888-945-5500. To view a brochure visit http://www.learning-network.org/professionaldevelop/.
Aboriginal Homework Club Tutoring
Cree Classes
The MNA Youth Internship Program subsidizes (reimburses) employers up to 50% of a Métis youth’s wages for up to six months of quality work experience. A Métis youth has just graduated from a Legal Assistant certificate program and is now looking for work in this field. If you know of any lawyers or law firms that are in need of a Legal Assistant and would like to participate in this youth internship please refer them to Kris Gladue, Community Liaison Worker, Métis Nation of Alberta Employment Services Centre - Zone IV Edmonton; Phone: (780) 423-2237; Email: kgladue@metis.org. FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 6, 2004 MARCH 5, 2004 MARCH 6, 2004 MARCH 11 - 13, 2004 MARCH 17 - 19, 2004 MARCH 20, 2004 MARCH 24, 2004 MARCH 24 - 26, 2004 MARCH 25, 2004 MARCH 26, 2004 MARCH 27, 2004 MARCH 28, 2004 APRIL 4, 2004 MAY 6, 2004 JUNE 9 - 10, 2004 AUGUST 13 - 15, 2004 AUGUST 19 - 22, 2004
Speaker after speaker extol virtues of Senator Chalifoux By Terry Lusty It was a time to reflect, rejoice and celebrate. But, it was also a time to bid adieu as Senator Thelma Chalifoux retired after seven years in the Canadian Senate as this country's first-known female, Métis senator. And, it was a double whammy because the senator was also on the verge of turning 75 (February 8). The February 6th send-off wasn't in chandeliered digs with a sumptuous banquet and vittles at one-to-two hundred dollars a plate. Heck no! But let me tell you it was an occasion this writer didn't want to miss and was unduly proud and honoured to be just a small part of the memorable evening. The occasion at the Morinville Canadian Legion proved a truly heartfelt farewell for Chalifoux and was attended by a number of dignitaries including Her Honour, Lois Hole, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta as well as St. Albert Member of Parliament John Williams, Lethbridge Senator Joyce Fairbairn, Calgary Senator Dan Hayes, Métis Nation reps President Audrey Poitras and Vice-President Trevor Gladue, the mayors of St. Albert, Stony Plain and Legal, her daughters Debbie and Sharon and sons Bob, Cliff and Paul in addition to many others. MLA Doc Horner praised Chalifoux's "irrepressable and undauntable spirit" while Senator Hayes expressed thanks for her dedication and contributions to debates and deliberations. Which senator had "so many friends and admirers" asked MP David Kilgour with a tint of a challenge to his voice while lauding Chalifoux as one whom "overcame so much adversity." "We call her the 'energizer bunny,'" quipped daughter Debbie Coulter who spoke on behalf of the Senator's immediate family. "She was always doing something . . . a wonderful model."
To so many, she really was a woman you couldn't forget. "We owe (her) a debt of gratitude; her involvement in government raised the profile of the Métis . . she blazed the trail for others to follow," stated Alberta's Métis President, Audrey Poitras. With no intention to diminish the words of previous speakers, the best was yet to come from Chalifoux's good friend and fellow senator, Fairbairn, as well as Lt. Gov. Hole. Fairbairn presented an emotional and riveting delivery of a woman who so abundantly gave of herself, more than represented her people with heart and soul and "leaves the Senate changed." Indeed, "no one has had the impact within parliament" that she had, she stated matter-of-factly. Here is a woman who not only educated parliament about her people, the Métis, but also "leaves us the respect for the Métis . . . a tremendous contribution," she added. "If you want a couple of national treasures, you have two here who can't be beat," she concluded in reference to Chalifoux and the Lt. Gov. As the final speaker, Hole described Chalifoux as "one who served as Alberta's conscience . . . touched hundreds and thousands of lives, never stopped looking out for other's interests." She told of how people such as the senator make a difference for the disadvantaged and that her imprint is "a testament to her incredible will." Throughout the evening most of the presenters showered the senator not only with gracious words but parting gifts. And, of those in attendance who didn't bring gifts or accolades, they offered well-wishes, congratulations on a job well done, smiles and laughter that said it all. Although Chalifoux is stepping out of the picture as a senator, she certainly won't be stepping out of the Métis community any too soon. I'm sure - as sure as the day is long - that we haven't heard the last of this wonderful Métis woman. As Senator Fairbairn so aptly put it, "Anyone who crosses her path becomes part of her extended family; she won't leave you or anyone alone, you are stuck with Thelma!" Students honour their role models Karen-Lee Backs is very active in her community. She is currently the Treasurer of the High Prairie Dolphins Swim Club, a canoe instructor with the Junior Forest Wardens, and an active member of the Pioneer Thresherman’s Society. For three years she was the chair of the St. Andrew’s School’s Parent Council and coordinator of the Ducks Unlimited youth group Greenwings. Her citizenship has included participation in events of the Triangle Community Hall and voluntary work with The High Prairie Communities in Bloom competition. Backs is a parent of four children aged five to twelve. Backs is typical of many students at Northern Lakes College in that her strong family and community ties make it difficult to uproot to further her education elsewhere. She has entered the university studies program at the Grouard campus to complete a Bachelor of Education through the Aboriginal Teacher Education Program. This collaborative program with the University of Alberta enables her to continue to be an active member of her community while pursuing her educational goals in our region. She is currently balancing full-time studies with parenting, bookkeeping for the family business and volunteering. Joseph Ophus chose to make a dramatic change in his life in the fall of 2002. He moved from the world of work in heavy machinery to upgrading his education at the Stony Point campus in Wabasca. His leadership skills quickly became apparent to all and he was elected President of the Stony Point Student Committee, Vice-President of the College-wide Students’ Association and member of Academic Council. Ernest Shanahan, Regional Director with the College writes that, “he was one of the most active and effective Presidents I have had the pleasure to work with on this campus in the past five years. He was able to provide leadership, organization and motivation to the students and was successful in organizing a number of activities and fund raising projects successfully.” His goal is to attain a Bachelor of Education. Ophus is an active parent of four children attending all parent teacher conferences, teaching Sunday school and accompanying a recent community youth trip to attend a Bible camp. He began University Studies together with his eldest child this fall. Northern Alberta Development Council may match the Students’ Association scholarship amount for the post-secondary students above based on unique criteria. The students and staff at the Smoky River campus in McLennan have appreciated the many talents of Tracy Loyie. Her academic performance is impeccable with a 90% average in her course work. Single parenting two children has not prevented her from achieving 100% attendance. She has taken a leadership role in student projects such as decorating the campus, special events, organizing the canteen and an open house. Her accessibility to other students has included help with homework, trouble shooting educational technology, and assistance finding housing. A new instructor at the campus, Shirley Harkness, describes Loyie as her right hand. “Tracy has the ability to get all of her work done, balance her very busy life, manage her household, volunteer to help other students and still have a smile on her face and a sparkle in her eyes.” She has transferred to the Slave Lake campus for a second semester of upgrading as she works towards her goal in Business Administration. Kelly Mitchell is a catalyst at the High Prairie campus leading the local students’ union as their President for the second year. She has demonstrated leadership skills in organizing a variety of fundraising activities and a field trip during her tenure in this position. Beyond her formal leadership role, Mitchell is the person students turn to when they need help with a range of personal and college related issues. She is a good listener and has gained the confidence of students by advocating their concerns. Mitchell has also been selected by students College-wide to represent them at Academic Council for the past two years where she actively participates in decision-making on academic matters. Mitchell is a single parent of six children age’s four to eleven. She is a volunteer with the Métis Local, the High Prairie Friendship Centre and the Food Bank and understands that her contribution to the community comes back to her a hundred fold. She sees her volunteering as an example for her children and a way to help provide them with opportunities for extra curricular activities. Her plans include finishing upgrading in June so that the can enter the Office Administration program at the college in the next academic year. These two scholarships for upgrading students are co-sponsored with the Board of Governors. Role Model Scholarships are awarded based on five criteria:
For more information or an interview, contact: New MNA Local - Chinook 1880 A new Métis Nation of Alberta (MNA) Local called Chinook 1880 has been formed in the Pincher Creek and Fort MacLeod vicinity. A well attended organizational meeting was held just before the New Year. Marlene Lanz, the MNA’s Region III vice-president, motored down from Calgary to preside over the election of officers. An enthusiastic board of young people were elected and all members look forward to good things in the future. Since then, the Chinook Local 1880 has held one board meeting with a successful pot luck supper. The meeting was complete with Rod McLeod as a guest speaker who spoke on the subject of Métis history. The Local encourages others to come out and get involved. Contact Gail Akitt, president, at 403-627-4326 or Frances Riviere 403-627-2598 or franrive@telus.net . Métis Interest Métis Nation mourns the passing of Steve Powley OTTAWA (February 23, 2004) ---The Métis Nation lost one of its greatest fighters today. At about one thirty this morning Steve Powley died after a long battle with diabetes. He had spent the last few days in a Sault Ste. Marie hospital. Steve was in his fifty sixth year. He is survived by his wife Brenda, his four children, Paul, Evelyn, Roderick and Kimberley and three grand-children, Jerri-Lee, Anthony and Aaron. In 1992 he undertook the biggest battle of his life. He and his son Roddy shot a moose to provide food for his family for the winter. Ontario's Ministry of Natural Resources charged him and Roddy for hunting without a licence. From the Provincial Court of Ontario to the Supreme Court of Canada, over almost a decade, Steve won every case. His landmark victory was announced by the Supreme Court of Canada on September 19, 2003. "This is a mournful day for the Métis people", said Tony Belcourt, President of the Métis Nation of Ontario. "Steve Powley was a giant of a man whose determination to seek justice for Métis rights has changed the course of history for the Métis Nation. He is a hero to his people who have been left a legacy that will last forever. We grieve at his passing. Our hearts go out to his family in their time of great sorrow", Mr. Belcourt added.
Clement Chartier, President of the Métis National Council (MNC) said, "The Métis Nation pays tribute today to Steve Powley, who through his perseverance exemplified the on-going spirit of the Métis in standing up to injustice. His commitment to his family and to the Métis Nation has contributed to the incremental re-establishment of our people's rights. For this he will always be remembered."
After the Supreme Court Decision Steve told reporters, "I would have been happy with them saying, 'yes, we were Métis and we do exist', but we got the whole ball of wax that we initially went to court for. It was just amazing. People were yelling and screaming...At first I didn't see the importance, but as the years went on I realized it's not just helping my sons and daughters and grand-children. It's helping all Métis." Steve was proud of his Métis heritage and fiercely proud of his family. All those who had the privilege of knowing Steve would agree that his selfless generosity knew no bounds. Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Many of you have been asking what Alberta is doing in response to last year’s Supreme Court of Canada ruling on the Powley decision. The Powley decision was received as good news by Métis people across the country. The ruling held that, in certain circumstances, Métis communities possess rights which include hunting and harvesting. The Supreme Court has encouraged governments and Métis communities to work together to find ways of implementing and responding to the decision. I want you to know that we are taking action. Alberta has established an interdepartmental committee to study the complex technical issues associated with applying the principles set out in the Powley decision to the Alberta situation. My officials have had preliminary discussions with representatives of the Métis Nation of Alberta Association (MNAA) and Métis Settlements General Council (MSGC) and we are making progress. At our initiation, discussions have also begun with the western provinces, territories, the federal government and the Métis Nation of Canada (MNC). We commend the Métis Nation of Canada for advising its members that the Powley decision does not mean open season for hunting for all Métis, and for counselling patience while discussions about implementing the decision are ongoing. Métis Mothers of Alberta WHAT WE HAVE DONE: Following the unanimous vote to request the identification of the Métis children in the changes to the Child welfare Act in the 1998 Métis Nation Annual Assembly in Slave Lake, Alberta, President Parkland Local #71 Métis Nation, Muriel Stanley-Venne pressed for these changes. News releases and letters were written. Métis Nation Portfolio Holder upon request, arranged a joint meeting with then Social Services Minister Lyle Oberg. Honourable Iris Evans, Minister of Children’s Services pledges her support on November 16, 1999. CONCERN FOR CHILDREN: The Métis Mother’s concern for the loss of our children is addressed to the government consultation sessions and at public meetings. Unidentified Métis children were being lost to our community. Developed the “Métis Kids for Us” program in Parkland County. PETITION OF THOUSAND NAMES: Gathered by Métis Mothers and their supporters throughout the province endorsing the identification and registration of Métis children! PRESENTATION: March 6, 2003, Yvonne Fritz MLA Calgary Cross presented the Métis Mothers petition to the Alberta Legislature requesting that the Métis Children be specifically identified in the new legislation. WHAT WE WANT TO ACCOMPLISH:
For more information contact Gayle McKenzie at 780-967-5105, Muriel Stanley Venne at 780-479-3634 or Maryann Stepien at 780-963-6849. Métis Me As I view the drifting snow driving along the highway, my mind travels back to the hot summer days when we lived on the farm right beside Whitford Lake. Whitford Lake was named after my great Uncle Andrew Whitford for which both the town of Andrew and Whitford Lake were named. It was great to have two towns named after you. And this was my relative. The wagon creaked down the road pulled by old Barney our horse of many colours and Jerry the bay. Holding the reins and driving was my twin brother Wesley, with me sitting beside him in front and my three smaller brothers in the back of the wagon. Boy were we happy! To be going to town with only us having full responsibility for the horses, the wagon and the boys! This was the best time of our lives! It wasn't that far to the store and everything went well. We picked up the groceries and headed back home. When we arrived back, my brother dropped me off at our small house and drove to the barn where he unhitched the horses and I went to the house to help out preparing for supper. From our own garden, the boys and I dug the fresh potatoes to wash and cook, pulled the sweet carrots and picked the peas right off the vine. The peas tasted so good it was hard to leave enough in the pot to cook. Signing off on this bright winter day and hoping that with all this snow Whitford Lake will begin to refill with water so that our swimming hole and bird sanctuary can once again be what it was. Note: Whitford is located between Andrew and Willingdon on Highway 45 sixty-five miles east of Edmonton on the Fort Trail. Next month Kokum Emma Alberta Wildfire Services AWS believes in ongoing professional development for our forest firefighters and have included within our affiliated company, Career Path Services Ltd. additional forest firefighting training programs to advance their techniques and assist them with further employment opportunities. This past year, we were able to train two of our senior personnel as Type I Leaders. These two individuals were thereby able to assist within the training labs of our SAC Type II Training Programs and liaise with the students, transferring their hands-on experience and know how to the students. Through CPS forestry contacts, our SAC Type II training programs not only meets but also exceeds the Province of Alberta's requirements and we have been able to include additional training certification for the Province of British Columbia and the United States of America. Alberta Wildfire Services, a division of Man Friday Ltd. and Career Path Services Ltd. would like to thank all the Métis and First Nation communities and people who have supported us over the years; a special recognition goes to the Zone V & Zone I regions, and all their EAS staff. We look forward to continuing our partnerships for the seasons to come. For more information contact aws_cps@telus.net or 780-481-6300. Fishing Lake Métis on a tear in NHL It’s been a banner year so far for at least three Natives from Canada in the National Hockey League, especially defenceman Sheldon Souray, No. 44 with the Montreal Canadians. The other two are Jonathon Cheechoo (14 goals, 11 assists) with the San Jose Sharks and Jordin Tootoo of the Nashville Predators. Tootoo, incidentally, is the first Inuk from Nunavut Territory to break into the NHL and has already been the subject of numerous newspaper and magazine features. Although he only has five points, he’s proved extremely valuable as a playmaker and one heck of a hitter. Back to Souray, however, the 27 year-old from the Fishing Lake Métis Settlement in Alberta, has been a welcome surprise and currently sits a very close second in Montreal as the leading point-getter. As of Jan. 13, after 44 games, he is only one point behind Mike Ribeiro’s 33. Of Souray’s 32 points, 14 are goals - more goals than he scored throughout his first 332 games! As of Feb.10, he sits at 15 goals, 20 assists and still reigns with the most points of any defenceman in the NHL. Those six points by Souray happen to be a new club record for most points in a game by a defenceman. The previous record sat at five points by Harvey and Lyle Odeline. Souray also notched his first hat trick recently. That came on Dec. 18 in a 5-4 win against the Nashville Predators. Souray scored the game winner at 0:35 of overtime to give Montreal the win. If one looks at overall league stats, Souray has more points than the leaders of a dozen teams. They are: Anaheim, Buffalo, Carolina, Chicago, Columbus, Florida, Minnesota, Nashville, New York Islanders and Rangers, Pittsburgh and San Jose and is only one point under New Jersey leader Patrick Elias. If one looks at individual peers in the league, Souray has put up more points than the likes of Selanne, Yzerman, Robitaille, Bondra, Gomez, Arnott, Fedorov, Nolan, Modano, Marchant, Smyth, Niedermayer, Nieuwendyke and Amonte. He also has as many points as Guerin and McEachern. These guys all have big contracts. Could it be that Souray may receive a substantial increase in his next contract? One would hope and think so. Go get ‘em guy! Stay healthy. What's the latest? For one, Souray was one of six NHLers picked to play defence in the Feb All-Star Game. Secondly, at the Feb. 7 All-Star Skills Competition in St. Paul, Minnesota, Jeremy Roenick had the most precise shot but guess who had the hardest one? You bet, Sheldon Souray with a blaster that reached 102.2 mph! Not surprising really if you look back to when he played in the WHL. Brian Boucher who now backstops for the Coyotes and Scott Bonner, former head scout for the Tri-City Americans and now general manager of the WHL Vancouver Giants, swore that the kid had a helluva shot and if he could ever find the net, he'd score big- time which brings us to our third and final point. Well, he has found the net and in doing so could be in line for a major NHL award. Like we're talking about the possibility of him winning the Masterson or Norris Trophy as the NHL's top defenceman. ANIMIKII In addition to our musical offerings, we have also developed and presented workshops locally, nationally and internationally on a variety of themes including "Education through Harmonization," "Working Together in Harmony," "Music and Arts as Tools for Transformation," and "Healing Through Music. Asani is made up of a circle of First Nations and Métis women. SHERRYL SEWEPAGAHAM – Lead vocals, harmony, drum and rattle. Sherryl is from the Little Red River Cree Nation in John D’or Prairie in Northern Alberta. Sherryl began singing since a young age and went on to study classical voice and piano at the Royal Conservatory of Music at Alberta College. She has completed her Bachelor’s degree in Music Education at the University of Alberta. Sherryl is an elementary music educator. DEBBIE HOULE - Lead vocals, harmony, drum and rattle. Debbie was born in Edmonton and was raised in the Elizabeth Métis Settlement in Northeast Alberta. She has been singing since the age of five and studied voice briefly at the Grant MacEwan Community College in Edmonton, Alberta. Debbie currently works full-time for the Métis Settlements Child & Family Services Authority. SARAH POCKLINGTON - Lead vocals, harmony, drum and rattle. Sarah is Cree Métis and graduated from the vocal program at Grant MacEwan Community College, has a B.A. in English/Anthropology and a Masters Degree in Native Studies. She has also taken courses in dance, drama and percussion. Sarah has been teaching, developing courses, and conducting workshops in the field of Native Studies for the past 14 years. PEACE HILLS TRUST Head Office: Hobbema, Alberta A traditional view into family violence There are six main components to Family Violence each sharing an equal role in the Cycle of Violence and the Healing. We have found that the Clinical Model used by Governance under Child and Family Services does not work for our families trying to escape from violence. What is Family Violence? It is the bullying on the playground; the sexual abuse of our children at the hands of family members and others; the verbal abuse offered in the home, the workplace, and in the community; and the physical abuse. The Abuser is inter-connected to Governance through the judicial system, to the Community, the Social Services and the abused family. The Court mandated anger management courses and incarceration do not address the mental, spiritual, emotional, and physical healing of the Abuser that can only be found through the Elders and Ceremonies of Traditional Healing. The Community plays an important role in halting the Cycle of Violence. At present Governance and Social Services are overlooking the community. The Abuser’s role in the community has a direct influence on the abused family. Lateral violence from family members, supporters, and siblings who support the abuser can be found on the playgrounds at school and at the stores in the community where the Abuser’s family is forced to shop. The Social Worker and services provided by Governance to the Abuser, the Family, and the Community is based on a Clinical Model of checks and balances that must produce outcomes on a time line that match resources to perceived needs. This Model often forces the abused family back into a violent community where the abuser has influence. This model is better suited to those who have strong family support and a safe community environment. Our Aboriginal Families are isolated from this safe environment even in the urban setting because areas of low cost housing are mini aboriginal communities with strong ties back to the Abuser’s Community and this puts them in harms way. Many frontline workers do not understand the needs of the Aboriginal Family. Yes, they understand the basic physical needs of safety, food, and shelter. But they can not provide the emotional, spiritual, and mental needs of healing that are provided by the Elders. The Elders blanket all components in the Cycle of Violence. They provide the family with the physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional support for the complete healing process. The elders have a voice in Governance within their Nation and at the Community level. But are shunned by Social Workers and Social Services who do not understand their role. The blanket of the Elders is the fabric that is woven into the Aboriginal Society that gives it its strength that all may heal. The Aboriginal Family is also central in this Inter-connected Cycle of Violence and Healing. Many have lived in fear and secrecy for years. Due to the position of the Abuser in the Community, his ability to influence Governance and the fear that the children will be apprehended by Social Services on the word of the Abuser. Aboriginal Many women who are suffering from abuse may lack the education, social, and financial skills to live an independent life outside of their Community. Many are totally isolated from family, who may live even in a different Province. There are many contributing factors in our history as a people that have perpetuated the Cycle of Violence. In order for Governance and Social Services to fully understand the Cycle of Violence one must first understand our history from a Traditional Aboriginal viewpoint. In traditional teaching men and women were created equal and can be best displayed in the soaring Eagle. The balance between both wings working in harmony. If one wing is damaged the Eagle will die. This also demonstrates their close link between heaven / sky where the Creator watches over us all and Mother Earth. The woman is placed on the left wing close to the Eagles heart because she is the giver of life. Man is placed on the right to protect and provide for her. The woman while being an equal partner would not place herself above her man but support his position in the community. She was not subservient but an equal responsible for the teaching, nurturing of the children, and the keeper of the oral history of the family. All things were kept in balance with the “Natural Laws” and believe systems of the family unit. With Colonialism came misunderstanding between Traditional Belief Systems, and the Natural Laws that governed the Nations. The Church and State now made the decisions on Belief Systems, Education, and Child rearing. The introduction of the Residential School System tore the family unit apart. The Schools took away the language of a nation, the belief system, the love of a mother and father. The Residential School taught generation after generation that to be Aboriginal, you were a lesser person. That your language was dirty, your belief system was Satanism, and that your family had been replaced by the Church. But as Children we learned that acceptance in the Residential School was not won through love but violence given swiftly by the hands of those in charge. When the children returned home as young adults they did not belong. They had lost their language and their identity. They roamed the community taking what they wanted through force and violence. They had learnt their lessons well. Power and control through violence was the only way to gain respect and material things they wanted. They taught their children that violence was the only way to succeed in life and again the Residential Schools reinforced this. Conclusion: The Cycle of Family Violence is a learnt behaviour in the Aboriginal Community and the Métis Nation that must be halted. This can only happen if we as an Aboriginal Community take ownership of its causes and own its solutions. WILDFLOWER COUNTRY DUO Gerry & Louise Myre Contact information: wilduo@telusplanet.net or 780-776-2296. Métis Opportunity Incorporated (MOI) seeks board members In making these appointments, MOI will consider the following articles: The Zone IV President and Vice President shall select and appoint the Board of Directors on the basis of each candidate’s ability to provide direction for the effect and efficient functioning of the Corporation; The Zone IV President and Vice President shall make all reasonable efforts to ensure that Métis men and women have an equal opportunity to serve as Directors; Appointments are being made for two and three year terms; No Director may be appointed for more than two consecutive terms; an open recruitment process is followed. Applicants must be residents of the Zone IV area; have an interest in and support the mission of the corporation; be able to manage time effectively and commit to attend the Director’s meetings that will be held; have interest and understanding of the issues facing Métis people; be oriented to continued learning and application of that knowledge to finding solutions and developing a dynamic, effective Board of Directors; have skills, knowledge, or experience in areas relating to Economic Development and Corporate structures; have a history of high ethical standards in the performance of their roles; be committed to place the good of the Corporation before their own self-interest; and be able to work cooperatively with other Directors to build productive relationships. For more information, contact the Zone IV Office at (780) 944-9288 or 1-888-588-4088 or E-mail: <mailto:zoneiv@telusplanet.net>. TNT Promo Products For more information call 780-460-7589. Apeetogosan (Métis) Development Inc. If you are interested in starting a business or you are expanding your existing business, our highly trained staff are available to assist you. In addition to term loans, we offer assistance in developing business plans and we provide ongoing management support where required. Applications for Federal funding assistance are available to qualified applicants. Métis Matters … A Speech from the Throne in Alberta Hello friends, spring will soon be here once again and along with it comes the Speech from the Throne. On February 17th, 2004, the fourth session of the 25th Legislature of Alberta began with a Speech from the Throne delivered by her Honour The Honourable Lois E. Hole, CM Lieutenant Governor for Alberta. In Alberta’s parliamentary system power is divided among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. The Speech from the Throne identified four key areas, or pillars in which the Government of Alberta’s 20-year plan is mapped out. The pillars of the plan are: Unleashing Innovation; leading in learning; competing in a Global marketplace; and making Alberta the best place to live, work and visit. I would like to draw your attention to the last pillar in which there are several key issues being addressed. The government is calling for the creation of an office for disability issues, which will work with the Premier’s council and government Ministries to ensure a more effective delivery of programs for disabled Albertans. As well, the upcoming budget will provide sufficient dollars to meet the current program needs of our Elders and ensure services continue to be available to those in need. I was really drawn to this next commitment, as it specifically addresses Alberta’s aboriginal communities. The Government will continue to work together with its aboriginal partners in key areas such as economic development, joint relationship building, consultation on resource development, learning and health care to meet the specific needs of Aboriginal communities. There was a commitment to expand the mobile diabetes program. I tell you this is really needed for our rural communities, as many of our people have to drive into the Urban centres for treatment. There will also be the creation of new programs dealing with HIV, tobacco use and community -based care for aboriginal citizens off the land base. Well Ralph, it looks like you have your work cut out for you! I want to encourage our Métis citizens to take advantage of this Government’s commitments from the throne, and I must say that our Lieutenant Governor Lois Hole is absolutely right when she says, “Alberta truly is the best place to live!” Long Live the Métis Nation! Share a Prayer Please keep in your prayers Alphonse Coutu, who is scheduled to have heart surgery in late February or early March Edmonton, Alberta. Please keep in your prayers the family of Maria Cunningham. Maria passed away at the age of 97 years old.
“The Young Stuff” would like to congratulate her sons on the recent births of their children. Congratulations to Mark Gladue and Nicole on the birth of their daughter Tyra Gladue. Tyra was born in Edmonton on August 22, 2003. Congratulations to Raymond Gladue and Wendy on the birth of their son Alexander Cedric Gladue. Alexander was born in Edmonton on January 1, 2004. Congratulations to the Lac La Biche Portage College Métis Week Committee, Mike Wood, Chasity Kozakevich, Robert Rayko and Rosalie Nicholls, who received an "Employee Award of Merit" during the Professional Development Days on February12 and 13, 2004. The committee was commended for organizing many events for Métis Week at Portage College in Lac La Biche, Alberta. The good will and community bridging that resulted was extremely positive for the College and students. Rose Nicholls stated, “The committee looks forward to planning another Métis Week this November.” Congratulations to the Tender Ties graduating class of 2004!There were 10 graduates at the February 13 ceremony. The best of luck to all of you as you take on the commitment of providing health care to the people. A big Happy 71st Birthday to Myrtle Giroux on March 16, and a big Happy 69th Birthday to Guy Giroux on March 24, from all their friends and family! Tail Creek - Buffalo Hunter Winter Community
FYI Lessons from Geese Fact: When a goose gets sick, wounded or shot down, two geese drop out of formation and follow it down to help and protect it. They stay with it until it dies or is able to fly again. Then they launch out with another formation or catch up with the flock. Lesson: If we have as much sense as geese, we will stand by each other in difficult times as well as when we are strong. Joke of the Month Two land surveyors come upon an Métis lying on his stomach with his ear to the ground. One of the surveyors stops and says to the other, "You see that Métis?" "Look," says the first one, "he's listening to the ground. He can hear things for miles in any direction." Just then the Métis looks up. "Covered wagon," he says, "about two miles away. Have two horses, one brown, one white. Man, woman, child, household effects in wagon." "Incredible!" says the land surveyor to his friend. "This Métis knows how far away they are, how many horses, what color they are, who is in the wagon, and what is in the wagon. Amazing! How does he know this?" The Métis looks up and says, "Ran over me about a half hour ago." To receive the newsletter via email or a hard copy or to send submissions of interest to the Métis community, simply email info@metismatters.com. The deadline for the April issue is Monday, March 15, 2004. Please forward to others who may be interested in keeping updated on our community. The Métis Matters newsletter accepts donations to assist in the cost of monthly publishing. Métis Matters Foundation of Alberta Long Live the Métis Nation! Sincerely, Disclaimer: Any information in the Métis Matters Newsletter is not intended to cause harm to anyone or any organization. The views expressed in this newsletter are those of its contributors and is intended to provide a tool of communication between people, and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of any Métis local, region, provincial organization or its affiliates.
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Metis Matters: August 2008 |
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