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February 2005 Métis Matters Providing communication to Métis and non-Métis people to create awareness, promote and preserve Métis heritage and culture. Edited and Published by Felice Gladue We welcome donations to cover our costs. Cheques can be made payable to the Métis Matters Foundation of Alberta. Thank you for your continued support. Please forward this copy to others that may be interested in keeping updated on our community. The opinions contained in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of the Métis Matters Foundation of Alberta nor the opinions of any Métis local, regional, or provincial organization or their affiliates. The views expressed in this publication are those of its contributors only. The publisher invites comments from our readers but reserves the right to edit or reject material at her discretion. To receive the newsletter, free of charge, to send submissions or to advertise, contact us at:
1. Events
Circle In Urban Community Setting" 2. Education/Employment
3. Minister of Aborignal Affairs and Northern Development 4. Speaking Up, Speaking Out
5. Métis Me
6. Métis Financial Matters
7. Working with You
7. Métis Interest Articles
9. National Métis News
10. Métis Cultural Corner
11. Joke of the Month 12. Recipe
The launch for Alberta will be at the Edmonton Legislative Buildings on 1 February 2005 at 10:00 a.m. when the Veteran’s Licence Plate will be unveiled. This is an open event to the public. Please come out and support your Veterans. As more events come available please watch for them in Métis Matters and in your local papers. The Board of the National Métis Veterans Association are pleased with this announcement and encourage all Veterans to apply for their Licence Plate. Applications are available at the Royal Canadian Legion, most Friendship Centres, other Veterans’ groups and at the Métis Nation of Alberta. Smoke Signals from Métis Local 1935 Fort McMurray Monthly Membership Meetings First Saturday of each month at 10:00 a.m. The next meeting is February 5, 2005. We invite all M.N.A. members to come and join us in creating the new space for our future growth and expansion. Back to Basics Bannock Every Friday from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. at the Local office (441 Sakitawaw Trail). A traditional, delicious and fun part of Métis Heritage, bannock is for everyone – both beginner and expert alike. Genealogy Workshop
Please bring the following:
** There is a $20.00 fee for assistance with family research; fee is returned if no information is found. Asani also has CDs for sale. Contact Sarah at 780-456-9329 or email spocklin@telus.net. For more information, contact Dianne Ireland, Project Coordinator/Facilitator @ 780-624-1234 Every Friday FEBRUARY 14 - 18, 2005 MARCH 3, 2005
Education / Employment Métis Local 1935 Recieves $19, 492 Donation for Bursaries The Fort McMurray Métis Local 1935 recently accepted a donation of $19,492.03 from the Wood Buffalo Employment and Career Training Specialist. This donation will be used for bursaries to be awarded to Métis students from the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo. Wood Buffalo Employment and Career Training Specialist (WBECTS) would like to thank their past board of directors, the volunteers and business community who have contributed their time, efforts and support therefore enabling the WBECTS to make this donation for the continuing educational pursuits of Métis students in this area. Than our Head Start program is for you!!! Our Belmead site is currently accepting applications to complete the 2004-2005 academic school year. AM Classes run from 8:30am – 11:30am Tuesday thru Friday The site is located at: Home Liaison Workers provide support and assistance for families to enhance the child’s educational experience and facilitate the transition between home and school. Modified Programming is available for those children requiring additional assessment and services. Please call Bernice @ 477-6648 Ext #243 (office) or 930-4215 (School) to register.
Who should attend this conference? First Nations youth from the greater Edmonton Area or Métis Youth from the Province of Alberta, between the ages of 15-30 interested in employment and training opportunities. All registered youth will have access to bonus activities which will include: tickets to the 2nd annual Alberta Aboriginal Youth Achievement Awards, Much Music Dance Party, swimming passes and sport activities. *Métis youth may qualify for additional sponsorship by the Métis Nation of Alberta for travel expenses. To Register or for more information please contact Becky at 1-800-252-7553 or visit www.albertametis.ca Date: February 11, 12, & 13, 2005 Location: NAIT Time: Friday 11th, 3pm -9 pm Have You Considered a Career in Policing or Investigations? And, in the past 2 years it has been very successful!! We start with 10-15 students and by the end of the year most of them are either in the RCMP, or working for police municipal forces, or in the investigations field. The certificate provides foundational policing skills while also focusing on the social and cultural knowledge required in order to be highly successful. With a focus on physical fitness and cognitive testing, the program is designed to give students the skills needed to move into a policing career. Students are also provided an opportunity to put those skills to use in a two-week field placement experience with a policing agency. Grant MacEwan College provides student support through the Aboriginal Education Centre; and in Fall 2005, the college will be opening a brand new residence at the City Centre Campus. Attend the Information Session being held on February 2nd, 2005 at MacEwan South Campus by calling 780-497-5186 or attend the college’s Open House on Saturday, February 5th, 2005 from 10 – 4 pm at City Centre Campus. For information on the program, visit www.macewan.ca/aboriginalpolice or call 780-497-4087 and make your dream a reality!
For more information please contact Métis Employment Services at (780) 423-2237.
“I was so nervous, I was sweating bullets,” remembers Corey. “We went into a large room and had to introduce ourselves to each other. I looked around and saw only one other native guy. We headed straight for each other.” “Some come from far away. They are scared and lonely. Seeing the big city lights can be frightening. It’s almost like being a foreigner. Everything is given to you on the reserve. Often people may not know how to do the basic stuff like getting around, and paying bills.” Corey explains that he didn’t have it quite so tough when he left the Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation in the Valleyview/Grande Prairie area to attend NAIT, since he grew up in Edmonton and Regina. Plus, he had an incentive since his mom and aunts are teachers and role models for him. But for many students, it’s a big transition. To make it easier, NAIT is introducing Aboriginal Pre-Technology, an upgrading program designed especially with the Aboriginal learner in mind. The forty-week package of courses prepares adult students to succeed in over 50 NAIT programs or other post-secondary courses of study. Offered at NAIT Main Campus in Edmonton, it begins on July 18, 2005 and runs through April 28, 2006. The program will include courses in trigonometry, computer software, English, algebra, physics and chemistry, plus teach strategies for student success. Mary Lou Ng, program coordinator, says, “Aboriginals in our regular Pre-Tech program can feel alone and invisible. Some have weak academic backgrounds and are transitioning to the city. For many, it’s their first time away from home. “This program has been designed to help students be successful. It provides the academic background that lets students select the program that’s right for them. Our curriculum includes an extra six weeks of algebra and physics beginning in July when the campus is not too busy. And we have built regular supervised time into the course, so if students need help, they can get it. Plus, students are supported through NAIT’s Aboriginal Student Centre, the Aboriginal Liaison Coordinator and the Aboriginal Student Centre Council.” The need for programs like this one is great. As Ng explains, the Aboriginal population is increasing. By 2015, they will account for one in five young Albertans. “We need to look at ways to increase Aboriginal learners’ success rates,” she says. “It’s quite rewarding to see students be successful and to make a difference in their lives.” Corey thinks the program is a good idea, too. “When I first got into regular Pre-Tech I was lost,” he says. “But I’d have felt more comfortable with other Aboriginals. Coming off the reserve and leaving family and friends, it would be a good thing to be in a class where you feel connected.” Roland Burnstick agrees. He’s a NAIT Pre-Technology grad who went on to complete his Industrial Heavy Equipment Technology diploma and is now working in the hydraulic department of an Edmonton body shop. “Leaving home and family is hard,” admits Roland. “But there are cultural differences as well. It’s difficult to adjust to the city. But I was fortunate since the first semester of my Pre-Tech was offered at Alexander. It was a good time for me to return to school. I wanted to make something of my life. My kids bugged me to go to school and I try to be a role model for them. “I think the Aboriginal Pre-Tech Program is a good idea because at the time I went, I felt a little out of place. It would have been nice to have that support. For those who aren’t quite ready, it would be easier for them to make the transition.” The program initially will have room for 20 students and Ng expects it to fill quickly. “Anyone who is interested should apply now,” she says. “We’ll be interviewing candidates in the spring to see if they have a clear desire to succeed, concrete career plans, and an ability to overcome obstacles. We’ll look forward to working with them in July.” Interested students can apply using NAIT’s on-line application process (www.nait.ca) or the regular NAIT application form. For more information, contact Mary Lou Ng at (780) 471-8964. Métis Students Graduate from Trades for Success The cultural component for this program was developed through consultations with the board of directors of Métis Local 2003 and members of the Métis community. By having the cultural curriculum delivered by volunteers from the community, students had an opportunity to meet and develop relationships with elders, Métis members and executive from the Local. Respected Elder, Senator Sophie Hiebert graciously opened the graduation ceremony with a prayer. Dr. Donna Allan, President of Lethbridge Community College, welcomed students and guests and shared her delight in the accomplishments of the students and the program. Region III President Ephram Bouvier attended on behalf of Métis Nation of Alberta and delivered word of encouragement and support to the students. Marlene Lanz, Vice President of Region III and Minister of Health and Education for Métis Nations of Alberta also attended, bringing words of inspiration to the graduates. Congratulations are extended to the following graduates: (alphabetical) Wayne Beaudry, Jeffrey Ketel, Ian Lambert, Hayley LeClaire, Nicole LeClaire Medley, Kyle Murphy, Stewart Rhodes and James Vandette. Though Barry Courtoreille was unable to see the program through to the end he was recognized for his participation in the program. A Certificate recognizing excellent attendance was awarded to Nicole LeClaire Medley. Sharon Sawchuk (Labour Market Development Manager, Region III Rural, Métis Nations of Alberta) and Kelly Thoma (Program Coordinator, Industrial and Technical Training Dept. at Lethbridge Community College) worked together closely to bring this program from concept to realization. With the Commitment of the Métis Employment Service Center support staff; Kathy Brown and Sarah Kastendieck as well as Lethbridge Community College Support Staff; Pat James, Sheila Wiebe Donna Wright and the dedicated instructors, students received ongoing support and the delivery of a quality program. We would also like to recognize Kim Mueller for her support and commitment to the development of this program. All in all, the graduation was an exciting event that proudly reflected the commitment of Métis Nation of Alberta Labour Market Development Program to supporting their youth in the pursuit of higher education.
Celebrating 2005 After a busy year culminating in a provincial election, I’m pleased to continue my portfolio in Aboriginal Affairs and Northern development. The Alberta government and the Métis community made some important progress in 2004, moving ahead in areas of mutual concern. We have a renewed and revitalized government with a mandate to listen to Albertans and to act on their priorities. I’m looking forward to many positive things in 2005. My commitment remains to work with Alberta Métis to identify and act on matters of importance, to ensure Métis interests are considered in the development of policies and programs and to improving awareness of Métis issues. To put it in simpler terms, I want to do what’s best for the Métis community and what will really make a difference in a person’s life. We can only do this by working together and I know we will. Centennial 2005 Alberta is encouraging individuals and communities to become involved in the Centennial by planning and implementing their own activities. Strong community involvement and partnerships are essential for the Centennial celebrations to be successful. A number of activities are already under way. The Centennial celebrations provide an ideal occasion to promote Alberta’s history, cultural diversity and economic advantages elsewhere in Canada and to the rest of the world. The Centennial will be a great opportunity to market our beautiful province, especially to potential visitors. I am committed to ensuring that Aboriginal people have opportunities to participate in the Centennial and that Aboriginal events are promoted. Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development is compiling a calendar of Aboriginal events for 2005. You can assist us by submitting information on the activities that you are planning. My ministry is collecting information on all the events including conferences and youth events, awards ceremonies, parks and community revitalization projects, tourism initiatives, school events, National Aboriginal Day activities, annual or one-time activities specific to the Centennial. This is a good opportunity for additional promotion to showcase your events. Please submit your event information by January 31, 2005 to Candy Jury, Project Analyst, AAND, at (780) 422-4062, fax (780) 427-1760, e-mail at candy.jury@gov.ab.ca or mail your information to: Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development I look forward to learning about the events that are happening across the province and how we can showcase the vital contributions that Aboriginal people have made and continue to make to the Province of Alberta. For more information on Alberta’s Centennial, contact the official website at albertacentennial.ca. If you have any questions about Alberta’s Métis and Aboriginal policies, contact Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development by e-mail at aand.website@gov.ab.ca or call (780) 427-8407. Send letters to: Speaking Up, Speaking Out By Terry Lusty Happy New Year everyone!! We hope this year’s new round of “Speaking Up, Speaking Out” by Terry Lusty will be informative and enlightening for each and every one of you. That said, let’s have at it. Greatest Canadian Lt. Gov. Lois Hole What Elder?? Disasters Remind Us My brother Wesley, (named after his great Grandfather Wesley Oliver) and I were twins, which was something special. When Pete came to visit, my Mom prepared a good meal. After the meal, sure enough, Pete got out his violin and played some lively Métis tunes. In those days there was a lot of teasing going on. Wesley and I were four years old and pretty shy. We really did not know how to dance so in order to get us to dance, Pete asked for the rubber syringe hose. He placed it around his neck, adjusted his fiddle and said that we had to dance otherwise we would get the “syringe.” Pete began to play his fiddle and believe me, my brother and I, we did dance round and round together. Everyone laughed and seemed to like us dancing. My Uncle Napoleon McGillvary was a big man who wore big wide braces to hold his pants up. He was a very popular and accomplished fiddle player. He, too, could really play Métis music and played at the dances and parties especially on the Colonies, now known as the Settlements. He was also in great demand for Ukrainian weddings. He had been in the First World War and later served as an RCMP. When Uncle Napoleon came to visit us, my Mom always made a meal. One evening my brother stood right in front of Uncle Napoleon, took one look at him and told our Uncle that he did not need to eat because you are too fat all ready. Needless to say every laughed it off, but I still get embarrassed by what my cheeky twin brother said.
Métis Financial Matters By Shawna J. Serniak RRSP Season is Here! It is RRSP (registered retirement savings plans) season already! Where has the time gone? To ease your RRSP frazzles, we have an automatic RRSP loan program, for up to $4500. It is a line of credit that will help you or someone you know build up their equity. Minimum monthly payment is 4% of the loan. Take out $2000.00, the loan payment is $80.00/month. At the end you have equitity and you have helped strength your financial foundation! We also have RRSP loans for over $5000.00 with a 2% monthly payment, over $5000 is subject to approval on the loan. February 28th, is your last day to buy RRSPs for 2004 tax purposes! Advantages of having a RRSP 1) Can help offset paying taxes at income tax time 3) Can be used towards a higher education without tax implications - college, university 4) Gives you the option of retiring early 5) Can be used for emergency money situations 6) Helps build your collateral 7) Gives you added freedom of not having to worry about what the future will hold, for you are taking care of it now! For more information on RRSPs, RRSP Loans or Group RRSPs, please contact: Working with You By Trevor W. Gladue, Provincial Vice President of the Métis Nation of Alberta Métis National Council Releases 2004 Métis Harvesters Guide Métis Harvesting Agreement (Interim Agreement) with the Government of Alberta which recognizes the constitutionally protected harvesting rights of Alberta Métis. The Interim Agreement applies to Métis harvesters who are members of the MNA or are eligible to be members. Current MNA membership cards will be accepted as proof that a person is a Métis harvester under the Interim Agreement. What does this mean for Métis harvesters in Alberta this year? The Interim Agreement allows Alberta Métis (i.e. members of the MNA) to hunt, fish, and trap on identified Métis harvesting ands within the province of Alberta. Métis harvesting lands include all unoccupied provincial Crown lands (as long as there is no development or activity on the lands that would make it unsafe); occupied Crown lands, such as wild land parks, natural zones and some types of provincial parks that have designated hunting areas. Métis can harvest on private land with the permission of the owner/occupants, or on leased land with the permission of the leaseholder. Harvesting must be carried out in compliance with regional conservation measures and must conform to safety laws, such as no night hunting, shooting across a road, etc. Other applicable licenses are required when using a motorized vehicle or boat, gun registration and possession of firearms and other weapons. If you would like to receive the National Métis Harvesters Guide, please contact your regional Métis office, or if you want to contact me for further information:
Métis Interest Minister Draws Fire on Métis Hunting Agreement By David Paul, Post Staff, Lac La Biche The current interim Métis Harvesting Agreement is a proactive step that ensures animals and fish stocks are protected while still recognizing traditional Métis rights, according to Pearl Calahasen. The minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development told a standing room only crowd jammed into McArthur Place Friday (Jan.14) afternoon that after the Supreme Court ruled the Métis have a constitutional right to hunt for subsistence purposes last year, the province had little choice but to act. “Any decision by the Supreme Court becomes the law of the land. We had to fulfill our obligation.” she said. The five-term MLA from Slave Lake credited the Métis Nation of Alberta (MNA) and the Métis Settlements General Council (MSGC) for their willingness to come to the negotiating table. She noted the agreement calls for all hunters to respect land closures and to observe conservation and safety rules. “We wanted to ensure whatever we did was consistent with wildlife management.” said Calahasen. The minister also underlined the parties agreed to strict definitions of who could hunt under the Métis banner. “You have to prove you belong to the community…during the negotiations, the Métis were willing to be very stringent to say who is part of the community. They said if people go out of that or disobey the rules, they won’t support them in court.” Many in the crowd of more than 200 were from Métis settlements across the region. They emphasized they were pleased to finally have their longstanding right recognized and were not about to hunt and fish species to extinction. “We will live by the negotiations with the province” said MSGC president Alden Armstrong. “We will not be out there free wheeling. We will exercise common respect and do our level best to work with our neighbours.” Several speakers’ emphasized hunting is not only about subsistence for the Métis people but also a part of their heritage, a part of their identity. To destroy their way of life wouldn’t make much sense, they underlined. “We're not savages,” said MNA Zone 1 vice-president Rick Boucher. “We’re not going to kill all of the animals. Many of our elders have a connection to the land. It’s our community too.” Such assurances did not assuage everyone in the audience, however. Representatives of fishing and hunting associations expressed disappointment they had not been invited to the table to negotiate a fair and equitable agreement. They asked to be included in any negotiations on a permanent agreement, something Calahasen would not promise. Others worried about policing the 66,000 Métis across the province who do not live on settlements. “How can you stomach free reign?” one gentleman asked, prompting an angry exchange with a couple of Métis people in the crowd. “This was not a privilege given,” countered Neil Reddekopp, executive director of land and legal issues for the department. “The Métis could do everything without an agreement. We have to get away from the suggestion that this right was negotiated.” The majority of the speakers did not question the Métis right to harvest, however. They were more concerned with how all hunters and fishermen will be policed, to ensure that stocks do not get depleted. In response to a question from Lakeland County councillor Phil Lane, Calahasen seemed to acknowledge more enforcement officers are needed to monitor the situation and to charge people who are abusing the system. “I take it you’re supportive of putting more money into monitoring” said Lane. “If that’s the case, it’s a victory that’s long overdue.” While the minister did not commit to anything, she did ask the audience to report any abuses to the proper authorities. “Sustainable Resource Development has to charge those people,” said Calahasen. “If there’s waste out there, we need to know about it.” Lac La Biche-St. Paul MLA Ray Danyluk, who arranged and chaired the meeting, agreed. He said he hoped all sides would be able to work together and realize that while they have different cultural backgrounds, they all live in one global community. “Emotion comes from both sides from people worried about the future,” said Danyluk. “Everyone’s here for the same reason we’re all part of the community. It doesn’t matter when you got here. We still need to work together.” Metis Nation Builder Butch Plante Leaves This World © By Terry Lusty The Métis community has lost another “good one.” The sudden and unexpected passing of Stanley Maurice (Butch) Plante during the 2004 Christmas season caught many in the Métis community off guard and shocked. At age 58, his transfer from Mother Earth to Great Sky Country was seemingly too soon. In the realm of Métis politics and social activism he was fondly referred to as “By-law Butch.” In addition to being a wonderful person, he was a very good mediator, a class negotiator, Nation builder and a strong cultural advocate. One of 12 children, Butch was a true Métis who led by example and had a distinct impact on the Métis community that he so loved. In the years that he devoted to the community, Butch was a totally focused, passionate, dedicated and contributing force to and for those so near and dear to his heart. He was likewise, an idealist of sorts, as well as a realist, a Métis nationalist and an individual who, over time, became one of the Métis communities’s cherished treasures. Had the man lived in the time of Louis Riel and Cuthbert Grant, he’d most likely have served on Riel’s Métis Council. He was also someone’s son, brother, uncle, father, grandfather, a politician, mentor and builder who never knew the word defeat. On the contrary, Butch was a winner. He triumphed not only on the socio-political battlefields but with some of his own personal demons as well. A wonderful model of “goodness” in the community at large, he was a person whose family members should always and rightly be very proud of. He feared no man because he lived a respectful life. Such was the individual that I and many others had the pleasure and privilege of knowing and working with and, on a personal note, I am honoured to have shared the time and efforts that we worked together at on various projects and committees. A man who passionately cared about his people, always wanting and seeking fair and just treatment for them all, Butch only desired a good life for them and was tenacious in his quest to achieve that end. Wholly absorbed and virtually married to the Métis movement, it proved his lifeblood and he should be long respected and remembered for his valuable input and impact. Apart from his voluminous input to the community in constitutional matters, by –laws and heritage, he was a voracious reader who constantly addressed Métis awareness and the extension and proliferation of his people’s history and culture. After all, he was forever pushing forward that Métis envelope and employing processes that were always constructive and positive to furthering the Métis agenda and cause. And, he did so with absolute commitment and integrity. Butch became one of the more instrumental players in the development of several particular successes, the most notable being his efforts at constitutional matters, the evolution of Edmonton Métis Local 1885, the planning and affectation of the 1985 historic Métis Centennial canoe brigade that traveled from Ft. Edmonton to Batoche, Saskatchewan, the origination of the Louis Riel Historical Society and the establishment of the Edmonton-based Métis Child and Family Services which went on to glorious heights. He was also a “go to” guy, someone who so many Métis turned to for “advice, guidance and direction,” said Marlene Poitras who now works with the Treaty 8 office in A fellow politician, Homer Poitras, also praised him for his political smarts. In recent years, explained Poitras, “we’ve been losing many of our knowledgeable Métis politicians and now we lose another.” And, a former political adversary, Lyle Donald, praised him for not taking political fights personally. Butch once beat him in a fight for the Zone 4 presidency and Lyle turned around and later beat out Butch but “we never got upset or took it personally,” he explained. Carolyn Recollet, (formerly Carolyn Pettifer) the mother of his two children – Raven and Brady, especially recalls the period of time leading up to the 1985 Centennial Batoche Canoe Brigade. “It was an exciting time,” a time when Métis Local 1885 had very humble digs. “We had this tiny little office” (across from the old police station on 103 Ave. and between 97 and 99 Street). “It was always packed,” she said. Anyway, as the story goes, Butch arranged a meeting with Social Services director and staff – 4 of them – to come to their cramped Métis quarters to negotiate the beginnings of MCFS. “We made it happen, completed negotiations and convinced them that they had to provide program dollars and they committed to help us start MCFS,” Recollet explained. Aside from the 1985 Batoche canoe brigade, the start of Local 1885 and the historical society as well as MCFS, Butch also “gave birth to the formation of Métis Regional Councils.” In his time, he presided as the Métis Local 1885 president from 1984 – 1988 and as the provincial Zone IV President from 1990 – 1993. Former MNA provincial vice-president, Joe Blyan, claimed Butch “did not get recognized for some of the work he’d done.” He explained that he and Butch started the (Native) Brotherhood in the jails around the
MNA president Audrey Poitras delivered some kind words on behalf of the provincial organization and Butch’s brother, Victor, said he was a nation builder, a mover and shaker and a “role model for me in a lot of ways.” A former political activist in Edson with a rep as a radical back in the 1980s, Dan Martel also credits Butch for pushing forward his concept of Métis regional councils as well as for helping new Métis Locals such as theirs in Edson by providing “advice, direction” and he remembers Butch as a “kind, quiet” person who was always “cool, calm and collected.” In addition, “he stood up to keep the (Métis) Nation together.” Butch’s daughter, Nitanis, said her dad possessed “a wealth of knowledge, an abundance of love.” Another longtime friend, James Atkinson, could hardly argue such a claim to fame. In addition to recalling his good laughter, he fondly remembers Butch’s frequent arguments with his departed brother Bill over varying political issues and how Butch would suddenly come up with that one all-important point that would finally resolve the debate or argument. “Aw shucks,” Bill would exclaim, “you got me again.” Indeed, Butch would most likely have made a great profession out of being a mediator and/or negotiator. He could be patient, understanding, and cool as a cucumber. Actually, he often served in the capacity of acting as a mediator/negotiator. On a bit of a personal note, I have always had a deep respect for Butch. We worked together on a few important ventures and I’ll not forget them, things like the 1985 canoe trip to Batoche which also included his late brother Bill, Laurent Roy and Dwayne Desjarlais as well as Gordon Poitras, Robert E. Lee, Roland, Henry Chevelard, Bruce Gladue, Willy Anderson, Cleo Reece, Chico Desjarlais, Winston Wuttunee and so many others I can’t name them all. We also worked together on the Zone 4 Métis education advisory committee, the province’s Native Education Project when it was developing Métis curriculum materials and the Louis Riel Historical Society which I became president of after Gordon Poitras served in that capacity. Politically, Butch was sharp as a razor, a builder, a strong cultural advocate, a firm believer in education for his people and, socially, a friend to anyone and everyone. Overall, he proved quite the man. Certainly a proud Métis and most definitely one who most anyone was and is pleased to call friend or associate. I know I am. He was that light in the forest that guided so many of us on life’s journey in Métis country. Born at His funeral on Jan. 7 at Note: Who, among you, will pick up the pieces and continue the valuable work that Butch was doing?
Not only is being able to read important, but also what you read. Pemmican Publications Inc. is a Métis Cultural and Educational Publishing House established in 1980 by the Manitoba Metis Federation Inc. as a creative and vocational outlet for the Métis people of Manitoba. Pemmican is the only Métis book Publishing House in Canada. Pemmican promotes Métis Culture and History through it's publications, many of which depict traditional lifestyle, the art of oral storytelling, living in harmony with nature and the environment, and the rich and living heritage of the Métis and the Province of Manitoba. The oral tradition of passing on knowledge from generation to generation comes alive in Pemmican's stories of the special bond between children and their Kokums and Mushoms.
Métis Calgary Family Services Call for Board of Directors – 1 to 3 Year Appointment If you are a professionally designated individual that seeks to contribute to the values and goals of culturally appropriate services for urban Calgarians. You will be able to commit to monthly meetings, normally no more than 3 hours, in your capacity as a volunteer; in addition, annual general meeting and strategic planning initiatives. You demonstrate commitment, sound judgment and high moral and ethical standards as you meet the critical CWISS and Criminal records standards established by the society. Your aboriginal background will provide the high profile society with an enhanced spectrum of governance and policy implementation and development, as your well rounded and stable demeanor enhances the current board of directors dynamics. Your pride in your culture will support and enrich this non profit charity, in existence since 1992, providing culturally specific services to urban aboriginal families. The current mandate includes Calgary and area, however the society operates globally influencing social policy and establishing marques methodology. You support the vision of healthy development for Métis/Aboriginal children and families, with a keen understanding of issues and policy affecting aboriginal community today. All members of the Board of Directors are subject to appropriate clearances and oaths, and must subscribe to the objects and standards established by the Society, and in accordance with any and all governing bodies, regulations, or laws. All new board members will be required to serve a probationary period of 6 months. Any board member who is unable to attend three (3) consecutive meetings without prior notification and / or justification will be deemed to have abandoned their responsibility in respect to the Society. Interested individuals are encouraged to submit a current letter of intent, C.V. with related professional experience and references to; Board Recruitment Team Leader All submissions will be kept in confidence. Valemount Métis Junior Jiggers Then Verne had to return to his home twon of Smithers, B.C. He was gone for a while, but nonetheless, the group kept on practicing and watching jigging videos. They were beginning to improve and gain confidence in their skill. Then Trevor Gladue came to Valemount and taught the group more jigging steps. This made the group even more eager to refine their jigging steps. In 1999, Verne came back to Valemount and became the Métis youth coordinator for the Valemount Métis Office. He continued fiddling for the dance group. By now the group was becoming popular in the schools around the area such as Clearwater, Vavenby and Prince George. The group then became a group of five when Dakota's nine year old sister, Britney Stone joined. In 2001, the group traveled to Kamloops and danced at a youth pow-wow. Soon after that the group was invited back to Kamloops to dance for the Elders. This was a big accomplishment for the children and made all their practicing and dedication all the more worth it. In March 2004, Verne passed away, a big loss in the lives of many. The entire dance group traveled to Smithers and danced one last time for him. Even though Verne was gone, the group kept on jigging. That is what Verne would have wanted. Again the Valemount Métis Junior Jiggers traveled to Grande Cache this year for the talent show. It was not the same without Verne around though. Jigging in the moccasins they made themselves Rosetta came in first and Britney in third.
Aboriginal Coalition Formed to Assist City and Province with Centennial Celebrations The preservation of the Métis heritage, lifestyle, music, literature and traditions are important to Canada and to the world. Métis culture represents the blending of two important vastly divergent ways of civilized thinking to form a brand new one. In the history of humankind, the melding of two cultures has often produced innovative new forms of civility that have shaped the way we think forever and changed the face of the earth. Examples abound. When the Ancient Romans adapted ideas from Ancient Greece, new styles of buildings resulted, new philosophies developed, new ways of thinking evolved into practical political systems, great literature and engineering feats. In the case of the Métis, this evolution is less evident. For one thing, it’s only a few generations old and it has not yet had a chance to fully make its mark. More strikingly, Métis culture is a blending and melding of two otherwise clashing cultures, the Aboriginal and European. Like other blends of cultures, an assimilation and domination of one over the other poses challenges. Yet when it is successfully accomplished, it can and does generate an enriched environment that produces new, unique and progressive ways of thinking that contribute to the overall development of humankind. In South-America, inter-marriage between Aboriginal, European and African men and women occurred only after a great deal of brutal conquering took place. In the case of the Métis, the melding was relatively peaceful. A new culture was born not so much through the use of firearms, but through the medium of fiddles, dress, and other powerful cultural traditions. Both Aboriginal and European backgrounds offer rich, long standing traditions that have served them respectfully for hundreds of years. This makes the combination all the more enriching, fascinating and beneficial to all those who take the trouble to study it. Métis people in Alberta and Canada can be proud of their exceptional accomplishments. Preserving a time in history when Métis Settlements and the influence of the Métis was sharply felt is important to all of us: people of European, Aboriginal, Oriental, African and Mid-Oriental descent in Canada. Interpretative efforts to conserve Victoria Crossing and the Historical Village in Grouard are important to help us understand now, and in the future, the wonderful legacy of the Métis. The Mark of the Métis is only beginning to be felt. Once it is understood by many more, it will become better appreciated. Legislation to acknowledge and fortify the role of the Métis is a positive sign that the Métis have a rightful and integral part to play in the overall advancement of society. As a model, The Métis community can and will be used to grow our civilized society and to make this world a better place. Treasure Hunt When Papa says, “Let’s go to the bush this afternoon,” Mama quietly moves to the kitchen to start making lunch. The boy gets sent to the garden to cut chives with his first shiny new jackknife – his contribution towards salmon sandwiches. Before long the truck is loaded, guns are safely stored, the mosquito repellant is tucked in beside the berry pails and the family of four pulls down the highway a few kilometers before turning into the bush road. Their first stop is where the raspberries hang thick red in the old brush piles used to make this road. Even the little girl, Skwesis, they call her, climbs over the deadfall to reach the red treasures. Before long everyone is full and the journey continues. This is an oil road and it branches here and there to connect the well sites. It follows the path of a much older road that once led to a lumber camp. The remnants of even older trails now used by quads are faintly visible where trappers reach their cabins and hunters chase their game. Papa knows this area well. He used to hunt up here with his mosom when he was young. He tells stories of the dogs that used to pull them. He points out paths that lead to unnamed lakes. Mama drives now so that Papa can better watch the bush. She is ordered to slow and stop when there are tracks that need to be examined. Papa puts his hands into the track on the damp ground. He says, “It looks like there was a bull moose fooling around here this morning.” Mama wonders how he can tell it was a bull moose and not a cow moose. Papa’s tracking skills can discern the difference. There is an old camp at the blueberry patch. Remnants include an old tea pail hanging high on a thick spruce tree. These berries are not yet ready but the crop looks good. Down in the gully Mama shows the boy how to use his jackknife to cut the stems of muskeg tea. This is kohkom’s favourite tea and they will gather lots while it blooms. The soft mossy undergrowth cushions their task. A feeling overwhelms Mama – she is not the first woman on this spot to ever have picked this tea as a gift for her mother-in-law. This tradition is as ancient as people living here. She is thankful for the warm feeling and offers tobacco in her gratitude. Meanwhile Papa had scared up a flock of grouse in his nearby wanderings. There will be wild chicken for supper tomorrow evening to go with fresh vegetables and new potatoes from the garden. The children beg him to make a “balloon” out of the stomach. Mama finds some thread to tie off the ends after Papa blows it up. Now they can examine the stomach contents to know what the grouse were feeding on. Papa tells how this was the only kind of balloon he ever had at his birthdays when he was little. These trips don’t generally have destinations just lots of stopping places that become known for what took place there. They pass “Dustin’s bee sting” and move towards “Johnny’s campsite” past “double moose kill.” However at the end of this road, at the last well site, is an old moose lick that has come to be the goal of trips along this road since it was opened by the oil company last winter. Before, this salt lick was only accessible by foot or quad and they camped by the blueberries. The road breaks through a muskeg piling rich peat moss on either side of the fill. The family has filled the truck up with this treasure to add to the clay soil in their home garden. The rabbit trails are still visible along the muskeg’s edge and the boy remembers fondly holding up the rabbits he and Papa had snared when they were camped here last summer. There is a moment of quiet when they arrive at the moose lick. Papa emerges first with eyes cast around in the distance gazing deeply into the woods to look for game. Once he signals that all is clear, Mama and the children emerge to explore the terrain. Papa shows the boy tracks in the muck of the moist salt lick. Just as Papa’s eyes have continued to push outward, Mama’s eyes are cast down on the ground looking at the plant life. Papa and Mama are a hunter-gatherer pair. In the soil newly turned by the heavy equipment creating a clearing for the oil well, Mama’s eyes catch an interesting rock. She picks it up and is surprised by it’s shape. It looks like a vertebrae from a big animal – surely bigger than a moose. But it is not a bone, it is a rock. Papa offers that it might be a petrified bone and they marvel at its age. Was this salt lick here eons ago bringing animals to this area for a different kind of nourishment? Skwesis and the boy fall asleep in the truck on the way home. They are full of sunshine, adventure, lunch and berries. Papa and Mama will carry their limp bodies into the tent in the backyard where they all sleep on warm, summer evenings. Mama knew the knowledgeable lady in the museum. She was curious about the petrified bone and wanted help understanding it. She remembered stories told by a wise older in-law about large animals that used to roam in this area. What was this treasure? The museum lady knew right away that it was a dinosaur bone. The boy was ecstatic – he loved dinosaurs and had Mama read all their tongue twisting names to him in the numerous books he borrowed from the library on the subject. He thought it must be a Tyrannosaurus Rex. He wanted other people to see it too so Mama agreed to donate it to the museum on his behalf. They were told that treasured items such as this were often used in medicine bundles by their ancestors. The boy was excited when he got the letter and the pictures of the bone from the museum. He had contributed to the living history of the area that is recorded and kept alive by the local museum. This is a true story written by Monica Kreiner and submitted by the Native Cultural Arts Museum in Grouard, Alberta. National Métis News St. Laurent Métis Community Featured at the Smithsonian In May 2004, Métis Matters reported that Métis artifacts from the community of St. Laurent, Manitoba, would be displayed in the Smithsonian Institute's new American Indian exhibit in Washington. This was a major event in Métis history. In order to celebrate the community's inclusion in the Smithsonian Institution in September of 2004 a new web site, www.stlmb.ca, has been created. St. Laurent was selected to be in the Smithsonian because it is a very unique community. It is one of the largest Métis communities in Manitoba. Visit the web site to read about many interesting aspects of St. Laurent. The site will be updated on an ongoing basis so visit regularly to see what is new. The site can be viewed in English or Michif. If you have material that you feel would be a good addition to this site, email stlmaillist@yahoo.ca. Métis Cultural Corner Questions
What's in a Name?
1. Akasu lake, Alberta
2. Lac la Biche, Alberta 3. Cache Percotte Creek - Athabasca River, Alberta 4. Calahoo Hamlet, Alberta Métis Cultural Corner Answers 1. Formerly called "Lac de l'homme malade" (Sickman's Lake) by the Métis and early pioneers; now reverted to its Cree name, meaning "sick". The usher marched briskly back up the aisle. In a moment he returned with the manager. Together the two of them tried repeatedly to move the cowboy, but with no success. Finally, they summoned the police. The cop surveyed the situation briefly then asked, "All right buddy, what's you're name?" "Sam," the cowboy moaned. "Where ya from, Sam?" With pain in his voice Sam replied.... "the balcony."
Mix brown sugar and hot water. Add raisins and salt. Mix together. Add flour and lemon juice. Mix well. Cook mixture on medium heat until thickened. Stirring constantly to prevent scorching. Cool and pour into prepared 8 inch uncooked pastry shell. Cover with top crust and bake at 450 F for 15 minutes. Lower temperature to 350 F for 35 minutes longer. The pie should be a nice light golden color when cooked.
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Metis Matters: August 2008 |
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