June 2004

Métis Matters
Box 3263, Sherwood Park, Alberta T8H 2T2
Phone: 780-975-2084
Fax: 780-929-9474
Email: info@metismatters.com
Website: www.metismatters.com

News Deadline: Monday, June 21, 2004

Editor: Felice Gladue

Quotation

Lieutenant Governor’s Arts Awards recipients announced!
Ninth annual Esquao Awards honour 28 women
Aboriginal History Quiz at Prince Charles School

This event had been made possible by the generosity of many sponsors. Many thanks to First Nations Métis and Inuit Education Program, Writing on Stone Provincial Park, Miywasin Society of Aboriginal Services, Medicine Hat Interpretive Program, Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park – Alberta, Fort Walsh National Historic Site, Métis Nation of Alberta Local 8, University of Calgary and Heritage Association of Cypress Hills.

For more information contact the Miywasin Society: (403) 526-0756, or Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park – Alberta: (403) 893-3833, or visit www.cypresshills.com.

Canada Post: Aboriginal Educational Incentive Award
Offered for the first time in 2004, Canada Post’s Aboriginal Education Incentive Award celebrates the motivation and determination of those who have courageously conquered personal, economic, or social adversity in the pursuit of learning. Each of Canada Post’s eight regions across the country will grant three awards annually: two $1,000 scholarships for the return to and successful completion of one full year of high school and one $1,000 scholarship for the return to and successful completion of one full year of post-secondary education, including vocational or trade skills training. The award is open to all Aboriginal people in Canada; a jury from the region in which they reside will select recipients. Each regional selection panel will be comprised of an Aboriginal member from a local Aboriginal organization and a representative of Human Performance Management from Canada Post. To receive a complete brochure and application form, send an e-mail to: Dwight.powless@canadapost.ca or phone (613) 734-6442. Submissions will be accepted beginning May 1st and no later than July 31st of the current year.

Local Incorporation Workshop
Métis Nation of Alberta Region IV is hosting a Local Incorporation Workshop on June 12, 2004 at the Canadian Native Friendship Centre at 11205 - 101 Street, Edmonton, Alberta. The workshop topics will be:

Irene Collins will be facilitating the workshop. Anyone who is interested in attending is welcome. Lunch will be provided. Region IV is only able to pay for travel and expenses for one person per community.

To register for the workshop please call Gail at 780 944-9288 or 1-888-588-4088.

Tom Jackson to host National Aboriginal Day Event in Edmonton
Métis Child and Family Services (MCFS) partnered with Red Road Healing Society are hosting a National Aboriginal Day event at Borden Park on Saturday, June 26, from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. With Tom Jackson as the MC, the event is sure to be enjoyed by all! Rain or shine come and enjoy the Aboriginal talent on the main stage and free craft, traditional drumming, dancing and game sessions under a canopy. Traditional story telling in tipis, free bannock and a food stand with Indian Tacos will also be available.

ANIMIKII
Web and Graphic Solutions
Jeff K. Ward
Métis Youth Web Designer
12210-109 A Avenue email: info@animikii.com
Edmonton, Alberta voice: 780-722-4196
T5M 2H5 web: http://www.animikii.com/

FASD Early Education Classroom
Scott Robertson School is currently taking registrations for their Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Early Education Classroom for September 2004. Services offered include occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech and language therapy, music therapy, social skill and behaviour interventions. Children must be younger than 6 years old before September 1st. For further information, please contact Aryn Ford @ Scott Robertson School (475-3565).

Northern Lakes College
Northern Lakes College is offering programs for:

Check us out. Our course list is expanding.
1-866-NLC-3456
www.northernlakescollege.ca/

Kindergarten Cree Bilingual Program
Edmonton Catholic Schools are offering two Kindergarten Cree Bilingual Programs for September 2004. The programs will be at:

St. Pius X school
12214-128 street
Tel: 780-453-3941
Principal: Sergio Magliocco

St. Francis of Assisi School
6614-129 avenue
Tel: 780-476-7634
Principal: Joe Naccarato

Bussing is available. Please call the schools for more information.

Trevor W. Gladue, MNA Provincial Vice-President

"Working With You!"
100 Delia Gray Building
11738 Kingsway Ave., Edmonton, Alberta
T5G 0X5

Tel: 780-455-2200
Toll Free: 1-800-252-7553
Fax: 780-452-8946

Email: tgladue@metis.org

Aboriginal scholarship program
Nearly 100 Aboriginal students from western Canada have received financial assistance in pursuing their post-secondary education thanks to Imperial Oil Resources' Aboriginal Scholarship Awards Program. The program offers education awards to students of Aboriginal ancestry, and is designed to encourage pursuit of studies related to the petroleum industry.

Program administrator Maureen Andrews explains that, along with the company's annual recruitment efforts, the scholarship program is part of the company's effort to increase the employment of Aboriginal people. While the program does not include a guaranteed offer of employment, scholarship recipients are considered for summer and post-graduate employment.

"Recruitment is not the primary goal of the program, but we do hope that as a result of their involvement with the scholarship program, students will view Imperial as an employer of choice," she notes. "The program is all about helping Aboriginal students achieve their academic goals, whether they end up working for Imperial or not, and on that basis, our success rate has been very good. The fact that we have previous scholarship recipients who are now employees of Imperial is a further measure of success."

Ian Benson, a reservoir engineer, says the scholarship support he received and a work experience term at Cold Lake influenced his decision to apply for permanent employment with the company. "I would say the scholarship program made a big difference to me - not just the financial part of it, but also the people I met and the experience I gained," he says.

This year's process is just beginning and applications for scholarship funding are being accepted up to June 30th, for the fall 2004 semester. Anyone who has an interest can review the criteria in the April issues of Alberta Sweetgrass, Raven's Eye, Saskatchewan Sage, and Native News or they may phone 403-237-4444 for additional information.

NAIT - successful careers start in your community
Did you know that NAIT has successfully delivered programs to Aboriginal communities in Saskatchewan, Northwest Territories, Nunavit and all parts of Alberta? Programs currently being offered in Aboriginal communities include: introduction to trades, apprenticeship programs, nursing attendant, fire fighting level II, pre-technology/upgrading, project management, accounting/business and more!

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/.

Courtorielle/Fraser family reunion
A Courtorielle/Fraser family reunion will be held on July 30 to August 1, 2004, at the Lakedell Agricultural Society facility in Pigeon Lake, Alberta. All associated families are welcome: Belcourts, Brazeau's, Brabants and Beaudry's. Contact Alex or Sheila at 403-845-5838 or Marion at 403-783-2037.

Métis Youth Gazette: Do YOU have something to say?
The national Métis Youth Gazette publishes submissions by Métis youth from across the country and is distributed across Western Canada. Our Gazette portrays the beauty and experiences of our People. It helps other people and Métis youth to understand who we are and where we want to go. And most importantly, our Gazette connects our families throughout the Homeland. What are we looking for? Community News & Events; Personal Experiences; Cultural Perspectives; Commentaries; Book, Movie, and Music Reviews; Your Poems; Short Stories; Photos; Jokes; and Other Artistic Expressions - Anything, because you are Métis! What does it mean to be Métis? What are the issues facing Métis youth today? We want to know about where you’re from and what you’re about. As a proud Métis youth, YOU deserve to be heard. If you like, speak directly to the themes of upcoming issues: July 2004 - Art, Culture, and Heritage; October 2004 - Métis Rights and Harvesting; February 2005 - Métis Youth and Health. Please limit submissions to 800 words. For more information, contact Avery Hargreaves at the Métis National Council - E-mail: averyh@metisnation.ca or phone: 1-800-928-6330.

Advertising Available
The national Métis Youth Gazette is available for advertising to organizations interested in the development of our people. This 16 to 24-page tabloid (11’x17’) circulates 10,000 copies year round. The Gazette’s target group - Métis youth and stakeholders - have declared the magazine a must-read! Exceptional Rates: Full Page (inside): $450 OR Back Cover: $650; ½ Page (10” x 8” or 8” x 16”): $250; ¼ Page (2.5” x 16” or 4” X 8”): $150; Business Card (3.5” x 2”): $50. To secure ad space or for more information, please call - Avery Hargreaves at the Métis National Council Ph: 1-800-928-6300 or E-mail: averyh@metisnation.ca.

Encana: Proud Partners
We salute the many Aboriginal groups in Canada working with industry to develop innovative, lasting partnerships.

Together, we are fostering constructive relationships, community development and economic growth.

EnCana invests more that $70 million directly with Aboriginal groups, through rig owner/operator agreements, contractor opportunities, small business investments, educational bursaries, training and skill development.

Youth employment opportunities
Youth Summer Employment - RBC Aboriginal Stay in School Program
Positions currently available in Edmonton & several in rural Alberta/NWT/Nunavut & Yukon. The Royal Bank Aboriginal Stay in School Program was launched in 1993 to provide Aboriginal students in Grades 9 through 12 with a chance to earn and learn during summer vacation. These summer opportunities develop skills that can be applied to various careers in business. Since the launch of this program, hundreds of students have experienced the financial services industry from the other side of the counter. The program is regionally managed and based on local recruiting needs. RBC is looking for students from Grade 9 - Grade 12 to work from July 5 - July 30 for 30 hrs/week at $7.00/hr. To apply, students must fax or E-mail a resume and an application to Leith Cardinal at the Oliver Square Branch: Fax (780) 488-5203; Email: leith.cardinal@rbc.com. Applications can be obtained by calling Leith at (780) 448-6717. The idea is also to give students experience in the job search such as applying and attending interviews. For any inquiries, contact Syrena Courtorielle, Account Manager at (780) 448-6739.

Summer Student Conference Coordinator
The Alberta Native Friendship Centre’s Association is presently seeking a summer student in their 3rd or 4th year of University studies [must be returning to school in September] to fill this temporary full-time position. Applicants must possess working knowledge of fundraising, excellent organizational skills, advanced computer skills, and the ability to multi-task. For more information, phone (780) 423-3138.

Summer Student Youth & Elders Gathering Coordinator
The Alberta Native Friendship Centre’s Association is presently seeking a summer student in their 3rd or 4th year of University studies [must be returning to school in September] to fill this temporary full time position. Applicants must possess working cultural knowledge, good organizational skills, advanced computer skills, and the ability to multi-task. Event planning experience is a definite asset. For more information, phone (780) 423-3138.

Bridging the gap: Women of the Métis Nation and Asokan Project bridge the distance between Aboriginal women and the labour market
The mid-1980’s began an unprecedented era of constitutional deliberations in Canada. These important discussions served to bring Métis women together in Alberta; the result was the incorporation of Women of the Métis Nation (WMN) as a registered non-profit society in 1988.

The group immediately identified training as a priority issue of its members and began work on an initiative to create a management-training program for Métis women. In September of 1990, a completed proposal was submitted on behalf of the organization to the Canada Employment and Immigration Commission (today known as Human Resources Development Canada); the plan was to offer business courses that focused on skill upgrading and special workshops that dealt with issues relevant to the lives of Native women. The proposal was approved in Ottawa and the first Business Administration/Management Training Program was offered to a class of 20 women at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) beginning in August of 1991. In addition to academic courses, the students had an opportunity to participate in workshops and learn about their own Métis history. Valuable on-the-job experience was offered as part of an intensive eight- week work placement.

The first graduation took place on May 29, 1992 at NAIT. The program was offered again the next year and by 1994, delivery was switched over to Asokan Project. The following year the program became known by its name today: Business Administration/Accounting Certificate Program. Since that first graduating class, there have been nine subsequent graduations of this program and an additional four classes that emerged from Asokan Project’s Finance and Credit Industry Training Program delivered throughout the mid-1990’s. In total, more than 260 Métis, First Nation and Inuit women have taken this training at NAIT since 1991.

Throughout the years, the changes, and the challenges, Asokan Project has managed to stay true to Women of the Métis Nation’s initial goal of providing an opportunity for Aboriginal women to upgrade themselves and their skill levels and have a better chance to compete in the workplace. Today, the Business Administration/Accounting Certificate Program is delivered where it all began - at the NAIT Continuing Education Center on Princess Elizabeth Avenue in Edmonton.

To acknowledge it’s 13-year history, a reunion committee has been busy planning a homecoming event for the weekend of August 20-22, 2004. The reunion will coincide with the City of Edmonton’s centennial celebrations and will help acknowledge the important role of Aboriginal people to this region - past, present and future. REUNION WEEKEND 2004 will offer an informal reception on Friday night co-hosted by the NAIT alumni Office and a formal banquet and dance on Saturday night. There are a number of other activities in the works as well. The reunion offers a great opportunity for organizations and individuals to celebrate a successful Aboriginal employment initiative as well as participate in the City of Edmonton’s 100th Anniversary.

The organizing committee is looking to hear from anyone who is willing and able to provide support or wishes to get involved. For more information, please contact Tracy Friedel, Asokan Project at (780) 471-7584.

National Aboriginal Day Events
JUNE 18, 2004
Opening Ceremony and Nellie Carlson
City Hall, Edmonton, Alberta
12:00 - 1:00 p.m.
Contact Lewis Cardinal or Laura Auger at 496-4936.

JUNE 19, 2004
Rossdale Healing Ceremony
103 st and 96 ave, Edmonton, Alberta
10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Contact Calvin 780-471-4483.

JUNE 19, 2004
Fiddle & Bow III Concert & Dance
10960-104 st, Polish Hall, Edmonton, Alberta
7:00 p.m.
Lite lunch provided.
Tickets $20.00
Contact Stasia Cardinal at 780-451-1072.

JUNE 20, 2004
Métis Nation of Alberta Family Picnic
Métis Crossing, Smokey Lake, Alberta
10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Bussing available.
Contact Kris at 780-423-2237 or Kim at 780-455-2200.

JUNE 20, 2004
Smudging the Streets
Ceremonial march on Whyte Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta
Contact 780-492-5677.

JUNE 20, 2004
Pow Wow
9516-101 A ave, Stan Daniel's Healing Centre, Edmonton, Alberta
Contact Kelly or Jodi at 495-2425.

JUNE 20, 2004
Fiddle & Bow III Concert
10960-104 st, Polish Hall, Edmonton, Alberta
2:00 p.m.
Lite lunch provided.
Tickets $20.00

JUNE 21, 2004
National Aboriginal Day

JUNE 21, 2004
National Aboriginal Day Celebration
Friendship Centre, Lac La Biche, Alberta
11:00 a.m. Parade
12:00 p.m. Opening ceremonies, BBQ, Open jam, Trade Fair, Children activities and Horse and buggy rides
Contact Rose at 780-623-3249.

JUNE 21, 2004
RBC Royal Eagles National Aboriginal Day BBQ
105 Street- Jasper Ave (Beaver Hill Park), Edmonton, Alberta
11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Buffalo Burger, pop & chips for $5.
Proceeds go to Amiskwaciy Academy
Tipi display, craft sale, dancers and dignitaries.

JUNE 21, 2004
Unity Parade
City Hall to Canada Place, Edmonton, Alberta
Contact Brenda at 780-996-0802 or admin@northernstyles.net .

JUNE 21, 2004
Official Commemoration
Canada Place, Edmonton, Alberta
9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Contact Heather at 780-495-6728 or poitrash@inac.gc.ca .

JUNE 21, 2004
Provincial Museum Alberta
Edmonton, Alberta
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Contact Jake at 780-722-3492 or jake.greyeyes@gov.ab.ca .

JUNE 21, 2004
Aboriginal Artisans Festival
10960-104 st, Polish Hall, Edmonton, Alberta
5:30 - 9:30 p.m.
Contact Marta at 780-482-5174 or Sun Moon & Visionaries at 780-433-3097.

JUNE 21, 2004
Rainbow Spirit Society
West Edmonton Mall, Edmonton, Alberta
6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Contact Norma Jean at 780-434-2160 or njo1@shaw.ca .

JUNE 22, 2004
Boyle street Co-op Education Centre
Edmonton City Centre
12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Contact Norma Jean at 780-434-2160 or njo1@shaw.ca .

JUNE 23, 2004
Two Spirit Circle of Edmonton
Aboriginal Awareness Session
10104-124 st, Edmonton, Alberta
10:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Contact Richard at 780-482-4421.

JUNE 23, 2004
Edmonton Métis Cultural Dancers
Kingsway Garden Mall, Edmonton, Alberta
6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Contact Norma Jean at 780-434-2160 or njo1@shaw.ca .

JUNE 24, 2004
National Aboriginal Day Events hosted by Alberta Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development
Featuring ASANI
Bannock cooking skills showcase and a give-away
10155-102 st, Commerce Place Rotunda, Edmonton, Alberta
12:30 - 1:00 pm
Contact Candy at 780-422-4062.

JUNE 25, 2004
National Aboriginal Day Events hosted by Alberta Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development
Featuring Kikino Northern Lites Dancers
Learn how to jig
10155-102 st, Commerce Place Rotunda, Edmonton, Alberta
12:00 - 1:00 pm
Contact Candy at 780-422-4062.

JUNE 26, 2004
MCFS National Aboriginal Day Celebration
112 ave & 74 st, Borden Park, Edmonton, Alberta
12:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Tom Jackson as Master of Ceremonies
Contact Mary at 780-452-6100.

JUNE 27, 2004
Golden Elder's Gathering
Borden Park, Edmonton, Alberta
Contact Myrtle at 780-727-0718.

JUNE 27, 2004
Aboriginal Music Festival
Legislature Grounds Bandshell, Edmonton, Alberta
12:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Contact Ann at 780-996-1568.

Up coming event schedule
JUNE 4, 2004
Honour Ceremony for Aboriginal Graduates
McGrane Theatre, Portage College, Lac La Biche, Alberta
11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
2:00 p.m. Convocation Ceremony

JUNE 5, 2004
Métis Nation of Alberta Local 2003 Annual General Meeting
702 Wing, Squadron Hall, 174 Stubb Ross Rd S (near airport), Lethbridge, Alberta
Potluck supper, bring your fiddles, guitars and dancing shoes
Contact 403-328-7828 or email metisnation@shawcable.com.

JUNE 9, 2004
Genealogy Workshop
MNA Head Office 11738 Kingsway Ave, Edmonton, Alberta
6:00 - 9:30 p.m.
$2 for refreshments
Call Beatrice at 780-476-2715 or toll free 1-800-252-7553.

JUNE 9, 2004
Métis Local 2003 Golf Tournament
To register call Joe at 403-330-9483 or the Métis Local 2003 office at 403-328-7828

JUNE 9 - 11, 2004 (school groups)
JUNE 12, 2004 (open for public)
History in the Hills hosted by the Miywasin Society and Métis Local #8
Cypress Hills, Alberta

JUNE 12, 2004
University of Calgary's Annual Native Graduation Banquet and Pow-Wow
Red & White Club, O-Centre, McMahon Stadium, 1833 Crowchild Trail NW, Calgary, Alberta
3:00pm - 5:00pm Reception
5:00pm - 7:00pm Banquet
7:00pm - 12:00am Pow-Wow
If any Métis or Native Grads want to apply online, visit www.ucalgary.ca/nativecr.
Contact Donna Meckling to volunteer at 403-220-6034 or email at meckling@ucalgary.ca.

JUNE 19, 2004
The Edmonton Aboriginal Children’s Chorus Summer Concert
With Special Guests and Silent Auction
Sacred Heart Church, 10821-96 street, Edmonton, Alberta
2:00 pm (silent auction viewing begins at 1:00pm)
Tickets $5.00 - available at the door
For more information call (780) 906-1923

JUNE 20, 2004
Happy Father's Day!
Hug your father today!

JUNE 24 - 26, 2004
Dreamspeakers Film Festival
Provincial Museum, Edmonton, Alberta
Contact Tracie at 780-378-9609.
Visit www.dreamspeakers.org.

JULY 1 - AUGUST 1, 2004
"Back to Batoche" Cart Journey and Trail Ride
St. Norbert to San Clara, Manitoba
Contact Armand Jerome at 204-275-2101 or Satch D'Heilly at 204-228-8238.

JULY 8, 2004
Aboriginal Healing Foundation National Gathering
Shaw Conference Centre, 9797-Jasper Ave, Edmonton, Alberta
Contact Angie Bruce at 613-237-4806 or visit www.ahf.ca/.

JULY 17, 2004
Anzac Métis Festival
Anzac Community Hall, Anzac, Alberta
9:00 a.m Jigging, Fiddling and Vocals contest.
11:00 a.m. Voyageur games.
6:00 p.m. Dinner and dance.

JULY 22 - 25, 2004
Back to Batoche Days
Batoche, Saskatchewan
Contact Métis Nation of Saskatchewan at 306-343-8285 or toll free at 1-888-343-6667.

JULY 23 - 25, 2004
Potta Trail Days - A Métis Cultural Event
Riel Beach Campground, Fishing Lake Métis Settlement, Alberta
Contact Sharon at 780-484-3744 or Herb at 780-943-3483.

JULY 24 - 29, 2004
Lac Ste. Anne Pilgrimage
Lac Ste. Anne, Alberta
Volunteers needed.
Contact 780-924-3231 or 780-460-6935.

JULY 26 - 30, 2004
Healing our Spirit Residential School Conference
Driftpile, Alberta
Contact Shirley Armstrong at 780-483-1183 or e-mail sharney@telusplanet.net or Marcella Rose Willier at 780-355-3868, toll free
1-866-355-3836 or e-mail ahfdriftpile@hotmail.com.

AUGUST 13 - 15, 2004
Métis Nation of Alberta’s 76th Annual General Assembly
Wabasca, Alberta
Contact Region 5 at 1-866-849-4660 or 780-849-4654.

AUGUST 13 - 15, 2004
7th Annual John Arcand Fiddle Fest featuring Calvin Vollrath
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Contact Vicki at 306-382-0111 or visit www.johnarcand.com.

AUGUST 19 - 22, 2004
2nd Annual Hivernant Rendezvous
Big Valley, Alberta
Contact Richard Lucier at 403-876-2945 or email apeetogusan7@hotmail.com.

NOVEMBER 18, 2004
Métis Fest 2004: Louis Riel Gala
10960-104 st, Polish Hall, Edmonton, Alberta
6:30 p.m.
Contact 780-451-1072. Visit www.metisdance.com.

NOVEMBER 19, 2004
Métis Fest 2004: Talent Show Preliminaries and Dance
10960-104 st, Polish Hall, Edmonton, Alberta
7:30 p.m.
Tickets $10.00 includes dance
Contact 780-451-1072. Visit www.metisdance.com.

NOVEMBER 20, 2004
Métis Fest 2004: 5th Annual Métis Fest Dance and Fiddle Preliminaries
10960-104 st, Polish Hall, Edmonton, Alberta
1:00 p.m.
Tickets $7.00
Evening dance $10.00
Contact 780-451-1072. Visit www.metisdance.com.

NOVEMBER 21, 2004
Métis Fest 2004: 5th Annual Métis Fest Dance, Fiddle and Talent Show Finals
10960-104 st, Polish Hall, Edmonton, Alberta
1:00 p.m.
Tickets $7.00
Contact 780-451-1072. Visit www.metisdance.com.

Currently
"Beads n' me" classes
There will be a $2.00 charge to cover costs.
To register call 403-203-0121.

Every Tuesday & Thursday
Métis Nation Employment Service Centre hosts a Job Search, Resume Writing Workshop and an Interview Skills Workshop
MNA Employment Service Centre, 3rd Floor, 12308 - 111 Ave, Edmonton, Alberta
10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Reservations are not required.
Contact (780) 423-2237.

If you would like to advertise an event that other Métis people may be interested in, please email us the information at info@metismatters.com. The deadline is Monday, June 21, 2004.

In addition to being a performer at the event, John Arcand was the big winner of the day and was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award. The crowd gave him a standing ovation as he rose to give a very touching acceptance speech. John is an accomplished composer, musician and instructor of the traditional Métis fiddle and dance who has spent his live preserving and promoting these traditions. His passion and dedication to maintaining traditional Métis music has had an enormous impact on the entire province. For his accomplishments John was awarded with a Lindner Bust by Saskatchewan artist Joe Fafard and a cash prize of $5,000.

The Lieutenant Governor’s Arts Awards is an annual celebration to recognize the contribution and achievements made by individuals, groups and organizations to the arts. The awards will be held in a different community every year and will reflect the character of both the location and the local arts community.

Marni Aubichon, Executive Assistant
Saskatchewan Arts Board
(306) 787-4069 or (800) 667-7526

Ninth annual Esquao Awards honour 28 women
By Terry Lusty

The evening of May 6 was truly a night to remember for the Member of Parliament from the Western Arctic, the Honourable Ethel Blondin-Andrew. She was this year's recipient of the Circle of Honour, the most prestigious annual award from Edmonton's Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women (IAAW). The award, given out at the annual IAAW's Esquao Awards which this year honoured 28 women all tolled has only gone to three others, those being Dr. Colleen Klien, Honourable Pearl Calahasen and Senator Thelma Chalifoux.

A Dene from the Territories, Blondin-Andrew received her Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Alberta and went on to teach in the north where she also served as a language and curriculum specialist, acting director of the Public Service Commission of Canada, National Manager of the Indigenous Development Programs, Assistant Deputy Minister of Culture and Communications for the Northwest Territories. Since her election in 1988 to parliament, she has served on a number of national and international committees and was bestowed a portfolio as Secretary of State for Training and Youth. She is now in her fourth term in the House of Parliament but continues to retain close ties to her community, family and friends in the north. In short, she's not forgotten where she came from and that she is a servant of the people.

In praising Blondin-Andrew, Senator Chalifoux informed the crowd of 800-plus at Edmonton's Agricom Building that she is responsible for organizing the first Aboriginal caucus in the federal parliament. Chalifoux went on to congratulate the work of Muriel Stanley Venne and the IAAW of empowering women. "Our women," she stated "are leading a quiet and powerful revolution; this organization champions the cause of those without a voice."

Stanley Venne, president and founder of the IAAW opened the evening with welcoming comments before passing the emceeing responsibilities on to the Honourable Calahasen and David Tuccaro.

A special tribute was made to the late Cree Elder Madge McCree who was a past Esquao recipient and a member of the IAAW's Provincial Elders Council. Following a prayer from Elder Harold Healey and O Canada sung in Cree by Elder Eva Ladouceur, were congratulatory and appreciation comments from the Honourable Jean Augustine on behalf of the Canadian Government, Edmonton councillor Janice Melnychuk, MLA Ian McClelland, MNA President Audrey Poitras and AFN Regional Director Jason Goodstriker.

In addition to Blondin-Andrew, this years recipients were:

Arts - singers Priscilla Morin and Cynthia Smallboy
Business - Carol Crowe, Linda Stephan, Emma Martineau
Community Involvement - Linda Boudreau-Semaganis, Lorraine Deschambeau, Verona White
Entertainment - Gerri Manyfingers, Mabel Goulet, Anne Marie Auger, Autumn Eaglespeaker
Education - Felice Gladue, Ruth Suvee, Ida Bull
Health & Medicine - Leona Carter
Leadership - Chief Rose Laboucan
Literature & Visual Arts - Betty Nordin
Culture - Helen Piper, Peggy Roberts, Eva Ladouceur
Social Services & Advocacy - Melvina Arcand, Josie Nepinak, Betty Hamilton
Youth - Lynda Dwyer, Natasha Calfrobe-Ayoungman
Lifetime Achievement - Shirley Dion and Theresa C. Wildcat

The Esquao Awards had an abundance of talent on hand who entertained an appreciative audience. Performers included singers Jess Lee, Priscilla Morin, the Olowanpi Singers, Chester Knight, OliviaTailfeathers and the Kainai Grassland Singers, Crystal Anne McColough, Karla Redcrow, Karen Donaldson who also played violin, and hip-hop artists War Party, in addition to hoop dancer Buffy Handel (with Raymond Hotomani on drum) and comedian Opie Oppenheim.

Next year, the IAAW will host its Tenth Annual Esquao Awards and goodness knows what's in store for that celebration in that Stanley Venne never ceases to amaze people in terms of the classy entertainment and trimmings she brings to this highly popular event.

Aboriginal History Quiz at Prince Charles School
Throughout the week of April 19 - 22, about 101 students from grades three to six at Prince Charles School in Edmonton, Alberta took park in the second annual Aboriginal History Quiz. The idea came from the Black community’s Afro Quiz which the students participated in and greatly enjoyed in 2003.

After seeing the dedication and enthusiasm the children displayed at the Afro Quiz, Delores Jack along with several other teachers worked together to develop the Aboriginal History Quiz. The quiz questions cover a variety of categories such as Aboriginal literature, arts and crafts and Aboriginal peoples and are aligned with the social studies curriculum. There are two elimination rounds ending in a final round.

All participates received a book with Aboriginal content and a certificate. The winners received both monetary and other prizes as well as their name engraved on a plaque that is prominently displayed in the school.

The Aboriginal History Quiz is an excellent example of dedicated teachers going above and beyond so that Aboriginal children learn their history and culture, and through this, their cultural pride, self-esteem, self-awareness and study habits are enhanced. Hats off to the committee members: D. Jack, D. Morin, L. Laventure, D. Chapman, E. Ellingboe, T. Gelasco, A. Cardinal, C. Spence, G. Lepine, R. Hunter and J. Toews!

Grade 3 Girls                                           Grade 3 Boys
1st Dianne LaFleur                                1st Jayson Callihoo
2nd Morgan Baker                                2nd Lance Delorme
3rd Kristin Belcourt                             3rd Jiles Potts

Grade 4 Girls                                          Grade 4 Boys
1st Lina Meadows                                  1st Perci Little child
2nd Terri Waskahat                            2nd Josh Delorme
3rd Britney Callihoo                           3rd Coby O’Soup

Grade 5 Girls                                          Grade 5 Boys
1st Desirae Halfe-Arcand                   1st Stephan Bureau
2nd Haley Soosay                                2nd Chase Mustus
3rd Amber Laurie                               3rd Jerico Dumais

Grade 6 Girls                                        Grade 6 Boys
1st Janell Adams                                 1st Darcy Ashley
2nd Serena Gladue                             2nd Dylan Makokis
3rd Shyla Keewatin                           3rd Mackenzie Cook

Hon. Pearl Calahasen
403 Legislature Building
10800 – 97 Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta
T5K 2B6

Honourable Guy Boutilier
MLA FORT MCMURRAY
Minister of Municiapl Affairs
780-790-6014 Fort McMurray
780-427-3744 Edmonton
Toll Free: 310-0000

Recruitment & Information Sharing Opportunity
The Métis Nation of Alberta Employment Services Centre invites employers from all sectors in Edmonton to speak with their clients and Career Counsellors about prospective employment within their organizations. Employers are encouraged to set-up information booths in the client services area to discuss with the public: potential job opportunities; organizational recruitment strategies/programs; general needs of the employer, or other relevant labour market information. The purpose of these information-sharing opportunities is to provide clients conducting job searches or career investigations with insight into the challenges and opportunities of particular fields of interest. As this is the largest Aboriginal Employment Services Centre in Alberta, your organization will gain access to this growing target group of the labour market. Employers may reserve an afternoon to join the Centre on any day convenient this spring 2004. For more information visit: www.albertametis.ca or E-Mail Kris Gladue at: kgladue@metis.org or phone: 423-2237.

MNA youth logo contest
The Métis Nation of Alberta is currently looking for a new logo for the Youth Department. Interested Métis youth artists should call Amanda L'Hirondelle at 1-800-252-7553 or 780-455-2200 for more information.

Learn to fiddle, play guitar and square dance
Exciting news! Métis Child and Family Services (MCFS) of Edmonton, AB, is offering fiddle and guitar lessons. The lessons will be on Wednesdays from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. and on Thursdays from 3:00 - 6:00 p.m. in 30 minute time slots.

MCFS is also offering square dance lessons for beginners on Wednesdays and Thursday from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Contact 780-452-6100 ext 249.

Speaking up, speaking out
By Terry Lusty

2005 NAIG
Without meaning to pick on the Americans, they've blown it again. Those electrifying and exciting North American Indigenous Games (NAIG) are threatened once more to not go ahead in 2005 as originally scheduled. In fact, they have been put on hold after Buffalo, New York, failed to meet all of its requirements within designated time frames and even after being allowed extensions by the NAIG Council.

The Games, an international sporting competition open only to Aboriginal people, originated right here in Edmonton back in 1990, and have gone five rounds -- four times in Canada and once in the USA. The Games attract the best of the best from throughout Aboriginal country in North America and inspire Native youth to be the best they can so they might one day qualify and compete in this highly prestigious event.

Canada also played host to the Games in 1993 at Prince Albert, 1997 in Victoria and in Winnipeg two years ago. As for the American side of the border, the USA has been given the opportunity of hosting them on three separate occasions -- 1995, 2000 and 2005 but only came through once. The 1995 Games came off but not before being switched from Red Lake, Minnesota, to Blaine, on the outskirts of Minneapolis. The 2000 Games slated to occur at Fargo, N. Dakota, were cancelled when they did not meet the requirements and they were eventually transferred to Winnipeg in 2002.

This spring, after being allowed extensions by the NAIG Council, the 2005 Games in Buffalo are not a go. Just who will host them and when has not yet been determined although 2006 is the hopeful date under consideration. And so it goes . . . the USA has been awarded the Games on three separate occasions and in all instances has had its share of problems. Apart from the 1995 Games which went ahead when scheduled, although at a different site, the 2000 Games in Fargo were cancelled entirely and ultimately went to Winnipeg and now the 2005 Games have, likewise, been given the hook. When does it stop?
Canada has always come through, the USA has always been fraught with difficulty. Is there a lesson to be learned from this? Some seem to think so. Were it not for the presence of American counterparts on the larger governing board, the NAIG Council, perhaps the USA would never get the Games. Perhaps, just perhaps, that may be the solution and certainly not without merit.

Consider the following: 1) when the Games are in Canada, Canadians have to pay more on the American dollar, 2) when the Games are in the USA, Americans save on the devalued Canadian dollar. Couple these facts with the fact that we have less organizational and financial problems in Canada, why not just keep the Games in Canada?? Maybe Canada has to take back the Games on a more permanent basis? Why not? Or would this be political suicide? It's not like we're trying to keep the Games exclusively Canadian. Far from it! The door is still open to American participation. One must bear in mind that in the best interests of those they are meant to serve, if saving the Games and continuing them for an indefinite period is somehow tied to the fact that Canada can organize them better, so be it. At least the Games won't be threatened and it's that larger picture that must be taken into consideration.

100 Great Edmontonians
The city of Edmonton has recently released its list of 100 greatest Edmontonians of the past 100 years. Although four of the individuals are of Aboriginal origin, there are certainly a number of others warranting mention if not inclusion. Two of the selections -- distance runner Alex Decoteau and author/educator Dr. Anne Anderson -- were very good choices. The other two -- activist Jenny Margetts and educator Phyllis Cardinal -- are commendable but so, too, are the names of: actress Tantoo Cardinal, former Cdn. heavyweight boxing champion Danny (Stonewalker) Lindstrom, recording artists Laura Vinson and Harry Rusk (the first Treaty Indian from Canada on the Grand Ole Opry), and former Lt. Gov. Ralph Steinhauer. What about best-selling author and university professor Maria Campbell who used to live in Edmonton? Or, how about Dr. Maggie Hodgson who founded the Healing Our Spirit Worldwide Conference and the Canada-wide Sober Walk, not to mention Native Counselling Services founder Dr. Chester Cunningham, Poundmaker Institute founder Eric Shirt and former police commissioner Tony Mandamin who now serves as a judge. And, yes, there are a number of others deserving mention.

While one might commend the city on its selection of at least four Aboriginals for inclusion on the list, the public -- especially in the Aboriginal community -- should be aware that there are so many more individuals deserving recognition and to not acknowledge this fact would be an injustice.

Shawna J. Serniak - Financial Advisor
Offering RRSPs and RRSP Loans, RESPs (education Savings Plans), Life and Critical Illness Insurance, Mortgage Insurance, Health and dental Plans.

For more information call 1-800-689-0896 or 953-3184 or email at tryshawfinancial@yahoo.ca.

CESO Aboriginal Services
CESO Aboriginal Services is a volunteer-based, not-for-profit organization founded in 1969 to promote and extend the economic growth of the Aboriginal peoples of Canada. CESO handles requests for assistance from Métis, First Nation and Inuit businesses, individuals, organizations and communities.

What services do we offer?
The services provided by CESO Aboriginal Services fall into four main sectors:

Business Support Services
Working with entrepreneurs, organizations and communities etc. in the areas of marketing/feasibility studies, business plans, lands and resources, funding etc.

General Administration/Organizational Development
Working with communities, organizations, businesses etc. in relation to financial and accounting systems, pre-audit reviews, audits, human resource development, manufacturing quality control etc.

Community Economic Development, Planning and Resource Management
Working with communities in the areas of housing, community planning, land use planning, etc.

Governance/Leadership Workshops
Working with senior levels of Bands, Communities, Board of Directors etc. in the areas of conflict resolution, roles and responsibilities, communications, how to govern etc.

How much do we cost?
Currently, the CESO Alberta and NWT Regional Office has funds available from trust funds and Canadian corporations to be used to assist with economic development assignments with Métis organizations, Métis-owned businesses and individual Métis entrepreneurs. Please call to find out more details.

Contact us:
Stephan Pertschy, Regional Manager
CESO Aboriginal Services
Alberta & NWT Regional Office
Tel: 780-421-4740 or 1-800-763-6372
Fax: 780-429-3186
E-mail: alberta@ceso-saco.com
Web Site: http://www.ceso-saco.com/

The Labrador Métis Nation
In June 2003, the Labrador Métis Nation identified needs in the areas of strategic planning, tourism, forestry, business development and Board Governance.

Over the past year advisers from CESO Aboriginal Services have been working in close collaboration with the directors of the Labrador Métis Nation in developing a strategic plan for tourism, which will include a Métis Cultural Centre. A feasibility study for value-added processing of forestry products will allow the Métis to play an integral role in the management of this renewable resource. A CESO adviser also facilitated a seminar in leadership and governance for the Board of the Métis Development Corporation.

These services were offered to the Métis of Labrador thanks to funding from the Royal Bank Métis Development Fund.

The following comments were made by the directors of the Labrador Métis Nation "the volunteer adviser’s past experiences in Labrador were very valuable to us as he fully understood the cultures, our ways of life, and the relationship of the geography to our people."

In a separate letter, the client writes : "We are most appreciative of CESO’s support, and of the volunteer adviser’s interest and expertise, in particular. It is a very valuable service. Thank you very much for your kind assistance."

The continued support of the Royal Bank will allow CESO to work in partnership with the Métis Nations in both Labrador and Quebec.

CAYRJC looking for volunteers
The Calgary Aboriginal Youth Restorative Justice Committee (CAYRJC) is looking for Aboriginal (First Nation, Inuit and Métis) people to become volunteers!!!!

"The CAYRJC provides a unique, alternative, status-blind and non-discriminatory cultural approach for our communities, families and youth who are involved in the justice system.

Volunteers will assist in the healing of our youth through participation on healing circles. Volunteers are required to have a current Calgary Police Security Screening. All training will be provided free of charge."

For more information or to sign up, please call Sharon Small at 403-268-5188 or, leave a message and you will be contacted.

SHEDTECH
Need more storage space?
SHEDTECH can help!
8x8 storage sheds starting from $999
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9761-62 Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta

Contact 989-5100

Alberta Métis Buffalo Hunt 1874
By Richard Lucier

While doing some research on the Hivernant/Métis Historic Buffalo hunts in what is now Alberta, I had a discussion with a Métis person who assured me that the Métis Buffalo hunters did not use tipis, only Red River Carts with wedge tents or wall tents. To me, this was a challenge as our family’s oral history mentions using tipis.

After a bit of research, I was able to turn up this picture in a book by the Glenbow called “Métis! People between two worlds” written by Julie D. Harrison 1985. The book gives credit to the Public Archives of Canada no. C.081767. The data in the P.A.C. lists this photo as being taken by anonymous Royal Engineers in July/Aug 1874 at Milk River Lake Alberta, during the North American Boundary Commission. The photo is now titled “Métis Camp Scene” or originally “Half-breed Camp” and was taken using the early glass plate process and developed in a tent right after being exposed. The image is of very good quality even though it is of only part of the camp such details as Red River carts, tipis and a horse herd in the distance. Clearly visible is over 30 tipis and over 35 Red River carts.

A enlargement of this photo will be on display at the “Hivernant Rendezvous" in Big Valley, Alberta from August 19 to 22, 2004. The importance of this photo is that it is documented by a established part of the government of the day. In further research we hope to locate further information on who was in the camp such as the Captain/General of the Hunt (possibly Jean Batiste Vannasse or Abraham Salios??).

If anyone has any further information on this Métis Buffalo Hunting era, please contact Richard Lucier at403-876-2945 or
e-mail apeetogusan7@hotmail.com.

I Am Hurt
If you are saying it … dial it!
Car Accident Lawyers throughout Alberta.

Call 1-780-426-4878. Free consultation. Referral Services.

Métis Me ... The Littlechild girls
By Muriel Stanley-Venne

Emma May was the youngest daughter of Robert Littlechild and Jesse Whitford born May 6th, 1916, and baptized by the Anglican Minister who came to hold service in the Littlechild's home. Her second name, May, was given because she was born in May. With four sisters, Elsie, Margaret, Lucy and Louisa, and brothers John, Cleophas and Clifford, she grew up on the Pioneer Farm at Whitford and went to Manawan School about a mile from home. In order to go to High School, she walked four miles down the railway track to Andrew where she attained her Grade Twelve. It was five miles by the road and four miles on the track #1.

Despite her wanting to be teacher, at one point in her school career, she wanted to quit. Her father was so determined to see that his daughter succeed that he threatened her with a stick when she told him she could not take it anymore.

With pride in herself and the determination and courage to continue she became the first student from the Manawan School #382 to graduate from Normal School and receive her teaching certificate.

This life vocation gave her the most brilliant opportunity to use all her talents and provide a great inspiration to her many, many students over the course of forty-two years.

Her teaching career began at Alders Flats. If you get a chance see the film “Why Shoot the Teacher?”, it will give you a glimpse of those one-room country schools that Emma taught in during the depression in the thirties and the forties while the Second World War raged overseas in Europe. She was paid $650.00 a year and sometimes given potatoes and chickens in lieu of money. This may not seem like much today, but it was far more than most people were able to earn in those days.

Emma was a beautiful Métis woman and a very classy dresser. Her black flapper dress with the beaded fringes, her high heel shoes and nylons with the seam down the back, the fur coat and the fur hat she wore made her a real standout. She fell in love with Wilfred McBain and they married in 1942. Wilfred joined the Royal Canadian OC and served overseas mainly in Normandy, France and Italy. Emma was left with two daughters Joyce and Norma to raise and teach school.

Emma Littlechild was now Mrs. McBain to all her students! Her second teaching position was at Edna School in the Ashmont area. In those days the teachers gave the strap – one day she gave the strap to eleven boys which meant she couldn’t raise her arms for the next week.

Next, moving into the Ukrainian community she taught school and arranged the most beautiful Christmas concerts where a full chorus of students at Bukawena School sang the traditional Ukrainian Christmas carols. As producer, director, and choreographer she arranged to have the nativity scene with Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, the animals, the straw and the costumes. All in all, an extremely memorable night! This organizing talent would be the driving force in so many things -- like teaching each one of her daughters to tap dance and play the piano. They too, had to call her Mrs. McBain and she always called for their best.

As the War ended, Wilfred came home and they added to their family. Robert was born in July 3, 1950 and three days prior to his birth Emma was coaching and umping the ball team at school!

Betty-Gail, the youngest, under her mother's training, rose to be the star tap-dancer of the Ardrossan Dancers and Marching Corp. Talk about a promoter – The Dancing Troupe Float won the first prize in the Edmonton Exhibition Parade twice in a row!

As a teacher who truly cared, children were always visiting her home and she often gave away her children's clothes to those in need.

Emma's later teaching postings were at Charest School in Beaumont, where the families were primarily Catholic, in Josephburg, where the United Church of Christ was very active and in Cloverbar 212 and Ardrossan. During this time, Emma took university summer courses to upgrade her teaching qualifications.

She was deeply interested in recording our family history and wrote the Littlechild story in the Canadian Centennial “Dreams and Destinies - Andrew and District” book published in 1980 for the 75th Anniversary of Alberta entering Confederation.

Berry picking was a favorite pastime of Emma's and as each of her girls brought their boyfriends home the approval rating increased if the sons-in-law-to-be could find good berry patches and pick berries.

Emma was very proud of her children, grand children and great grandchildren. She finally retired in 1979 to dote on her grandchildren and make beautiful handmade quilts until illness made that impossible.

Dennis W. Pommen
President CLGM, CHRP

Issues, Solutions, Strategies, Results
General Management Consultants

Tel: 780-497-8877
Toll Free: 1-800-497-6145
Fax: 780-461-7700

Email: dpommen@pommen.com
Website: www.pommen.com

201, 9358-49 street
Edmonton Alberta T6B 2L7

Métis Matters …Health and wellness: the fabric of our Métis Nation
By Trevor W. Gladue

The health and wellness of our communities is an essential part of the survival of our communities. There are a three factors in which I would like to bring to the forefront.

Family Violence - Family violence is a cycle, which can be passed on from one generation to another, and this has a major impact on the lifestyles of one generation to the next. Intervention and prevention is needed in order to break the continued cycles. This approach is essential in order to address the healing needs of all people affected directly or indirectly by family violence.

Crisis Response - In our Aboriginal communities, we have had to deal with crisis that have struck deeply within the fibres of the communities. Many times they are left without support to deal with tragic events, thus leaving the community vulnerable to further crisis. Aboriginal communities need an approach that can offer immediate supports when crisis occur. Communities have different needs, resources and capacities to respond to family violence. As a result, each one must be able to establish its own priorities for accessing the specific support it requires.

Diabetes - Many of our families are directly affected by the impact of diabetes. I truly believe that the Métis people want to improve health conditions in their communities by increasing focus on illness prevention, health promotion, and education. I believe that there is opportunities we need to take advantage of to further improve our people’s standard of living. We need to start giving our families the ability to plan for the future. Measures need to be taken so that our families will have an opportunity to benefit from a healthy lifestyle.

The Métis Nation of Alberta has moved forward on several initiatives to help our communities address diabetes. For example we have entered Phase IV of building healthy communities. This phase will focus on diabetes education and awareness. There is a need to change our mindset on the seriousness of diabetes, and the intent of this strategy is to do just that.

The Métis Nation of Alberta needs to move towards strategies that deal with family violence and crisis response, which will help local communities develop new approaches to advance the health and wellness of the Métis Nation. I support initiatives that will increase the Métis people’s knowledge, skills, and opportunities with respect to health and wellness. Long live the Métis Nation!

Happy Birthday
Happy Birthday to Joe Brazeau - a Dad, a Papa, a Mushum, a brother and an uncle! Joe will be 74 years young on June 14. Thanks for keeping our Michif ways! Love Joanne and family

1. What food did a traditional Métis diet consist?
2. How did the Métis store food?
3. Where would meat be stored?

1. The Métis particularly adapted such French Canadian foods as Tortiere (a pork based meat) and Les Boulettes (meatballs) and such Aboriginal foods as pemmican or wild rice.

2. Métis women commonly dried (and smoked) meats and berries for later usage, while storing fruits and vegetables in small cellars or sub-terranian root houses ensured the families had a fresh source of vitamins and minerals for the winter.

3. Meat could be kept in a well or by burying it in sawdust, wheat or under the ground. People also froze fish, meat from kills, and meat from slaughtered livestock and kept in heavy containers or in a tree to deny animals access to it.

A little boy came running to his daddy and asked, “Daddy, Daddy, can I have another glass of water please?"
"But I've given you 10 glasses of water already!" the daddy replied.
"Yes, but the bedroom is still on fire!"

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 May issue is Monday, May 17, 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.

Donations can be sent to:
Métis Matters Foundation of Alberta
Box 3263
Sherwood Park AB T8H 2T2

Cheques can be made payable to the Métis Matters Foundation of Alberta. For more information call 780-975-2084. Thank you for your continued support!

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.