Turtle Island Native Network October 2011 News Briefs

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Turtle Island Native Network
October 2011 News Briefs

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by Tehaliwaskenhas - Bob Kennedy
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October 31, 2011 - "There are numerous success stories and the number of people attaining success is growing," according to the largest and most complete research project ever conducted on the Aboriginal population in Toronto. However, the Toronto Aboriginal Research Report commissioned by Toronto Aboriginal Support Services Council (TASSC) also says, "For the majority of Aboriginal people residing in Toronto, achieving an economically stable existence is a serious challenge." The picture painted by the study is one of a very diverse and complex community. The research suggests that, while a substantial number of individuals retain strong links to their community of origin, the majority have taken up long-term, stable residency in Toronto. "Levels of education are improving. The unemployment rate, while higher than for non-Aboriginal people, is declining. There are a substantial number of Aboriginal people who are enjoying economic success, moving to affluent regions of the GTA and forming a stable middle class. Like other urban residents, they enjoy the recreational, entertainment and career opportunities afforded in a large multicultural city. They are participating in all the benefits the city has to offer while, in many cases, attempting to maintain strong Aboriginal identities." That's how it is for the thriving segment of the Aboriginal population of Toronto. Then there are the others . . ."Sixty-three percent (63%) of TARP respondents earned less than $40,000 annually. For these individuals it is a continuing struggle to attain a satisfactory quality of life in the city. . . The findings presented in this report demonstrate that problems such as poverty, the lack of affordable housing, homelessness, single-parent families, alcohol and drug addiction, school drop-out rates, racism, unemployment, physical and mental health problems, family violence, high rates of incarceration and lack of support for Aboriginal culture and identity continue to face many Aboriginal people in Toronto."

October 30, 2011 - On Friday, the Human Rights Commission of the Organization of American States (OAS) held its first ever hearings into the violation of Indigenous land rights in Canada. . .It's a long way to Washington, DC from the traditional territory of the Hul'qumi'num Treaty Group (HTG) on Vancouver Island. But being that far from home for the HTG First Nations leaders and supporters, was for historic purposes - arguing a "groundbreaking case" to shine a light on Canada's human rights violations, and to seek protection of land rights, at a hearing of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR*). The problem faced by the six HTG communities, is that land within their territory is mostly privately held, and predominantly by timber companies. In addition, the First Nations face an uphill battle because the provincial and federal governments provide preferential access to resources and land to international corporations - not the First Nations who hold rights to their territories and have legal interests in the land. It's called discrimination against First Nations. "That impacts upon the ability of our communities to practice their culture, and to have a fair resolution of this issue of title to the land," explained Robert Morales, HTG negotiator. Sound familiar? This is not unlike the challenges described in the frequent stories we hear, about the Indigenous Peoples elsewhere, such as in South America. In Canada, the governments continue to claim the BC Treaty Process is relevant, and is how First Nations must address their concerns. In fact, Canada told the IACHR hearing that First Nations allegations are not accurate. However, consider the fact that 18 years at the treaty table in BC hasn't produced desired results for the HTG. That's why they took their case to the IACHR. You can hear clearly the concern and frustration in the words of Lyackson (Valdes Island, Gulf Islands) hereditary chief Rick Thomas, who shared his feelings during a news conference Friday.(Turtle Island Native Network participated by phone) Chief Thomas pointed to the destruction of cultural heritage by property development projects in his peoples traditional territory. Desecration is a big issue. He cited this example:"One incident that has been brought to my attention was that there were artifacts taken from our island and brought to the Nanaimo Museum. The museum wouldn't accept the artifacts, because it was of course sacred artifacts - from a White Person, and the result of not being able to deal with the artifacts, the individual threw the artifacts into the harbour." Chief Thomas also pointed to the "major desecration" by Poets Cove development that "removed hundreds of years of midden sites". Protection of cultural heritage is hindered by lack of timeliness by the Archaeology Branch. Another troubling issue: "We hear landowners making public statements that they are not going to report artifacts or findings on their private property when they do work on their yards." Chief Thomas is worried about those threats: "Our elders are always very concerned when it comes to desecration and the process that we need to follow in order to look after our ancestors." HTG's Robert Morales told Turtle Island Native Network he has not ruled out direct action to achieve results, but for now the chosen path is diplomacy: "I think our communities are still waiting to see if in fact we can get some movement in terms of diplomacy but we don't rule out that other option. . ." (*The IACHR is an autonomous organ of the Organizations of American States, created by countries to protect human rights in the Americas.)

October 29, 2011 - The country's federal police service made a confession to Aboriginal Canadians this weekend, regarding Indian Residential Schools. "We acknowledge that as the police service of jurisdiction in the areas where the schools were located, we may have contributed to the problems taking place in some of the schools." A fully uniformed 'Standing Bear' (his honourary Mi'kmaq name), delivered historic words Saturday, as he appeared in front of those gathered at the Truth and Reconciliation Commission hearings in Halifax. Deputy Commissioner Steve Graham of the RCMP, presented a research report on the role of the RCMP in Indian Residential Schools - the first detailed account of the involvement of the Mounties during that dark chapter of a century of Canadian history. "Based on the data collected, it appears the RCMP played a secondary role in supporting certain elements of the school system, but, until recently, rarely initiated independent police action." says the report titled The Role of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police During the Indian Residential School System. A key finding of the study says the RCMP didn't know what was going on behind the closed doors of the schools. For the most part Graham said, they were unaware of the abuse that went on at the schools. Why? "The report shows that Indian residential schools were essentially a closed system between the Department of Indian Affairs, the churches and school administrator. The problems within the schools did not attract police attention or police intervention because they were mostly dealt with, for the most part internally," explained Graham. Investigations of abuse were rare, because of a general lack of trust in the police by Aboriginal peoples. "Children would rarely denounce the abuse they suffered, and the school system prevented outsiders from knowing about the abuse that occurred. Discipline was kept strictly internal to the school system and was not associated to the police." The report says the Mounties did conduct investigations at the schools, but these were primarily related to fires and missing children. "Although the research found that the RCMP was not an active participant in the school system, it did conclude that the RCMP assumed a responsive law enforcement role within the system. Our role included transporting children to the schools at the requests of the school's administrators and Indian agents. Assisting and looking for and returning runaway children to the schools. Locating parents who refused to send their children to school and informing them of their obligations under the Indian Act."

October 28, 2011 - The Missing Women Commission of Inquiry in British Columbia, has been told it will have more time to produce a report, that was supposed to be ready by December 31st. Now, the BC Government has extended the deadline to next June 30th. Attorney General Shirley Bond said the provincial government "agreed to an extension of six months, to give the commission sufficient time to complete the evidentiary hearings currently underway, fully consider all evidence received and develop the final report with recommendations".

A report presented to a UN children's rights group this week, on the unfair treatment of Aboriginal children, sparked an Alberta opposition politician to ask questions about Aboriginal education in that province, and got the Minister of Education to go on the record that he would take action to address the problem: "That inequality and inequity are unacceptable to me," he said. Here is the exchange in the legislature during question period Tuesday. "Mr. Bhardwaj: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Recently an appeal was made to the United Nations about the abhorrent conditions of First Nations schools in Canada. Young aboriginals are the fastest growing and largest untapped population in Alberta. They deserve a quality education. To the Minister of Education: how are you supporting First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students in order to receive a quality education in Alberta? The Speaker: The hon. minister. Mr. Lukaszuk: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I, too, find that report and the findings in that report unacceptable. The fact of the matter is that as we're speaking right now, aboriginal students who reside on reserves are funded significantly lower per child by the federal government as opposed to children living off-reserve who are funded by the provincial government. That inequality and inequity are unacceptable to me. The Speaker: The hon. member. Mr. Bhardwaj: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. My first supplemental to the same minister: given that the report highlighted that funding for on-reserve education is inadequate, what is the Minister of Education doing to ensure that Alberta First Nations students are adequately funded? Mr. Lukaszuk: Well, Mr. Speaker, frankly, I don't care where you live, and I don't care who you are. If you're a child in Alberta, you deserve the same standard of high-quality education. As such, I have already asked my department to arrange for a meeting with our federal minister, Minister Duncan. I'm hoping to meet with him very soon and address that very issue. The Speaker: The hon. member. Mr. Bhardwaj: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Final supplemental to the same minister: given that First Nations students have long been left behind with huge achievement gaps, including significantly lower high school completion, would this minister be undertaking any new actions? Mr. Lukaszuk: Mr. Speaker, I will be meeting with leaders of First Nations as well. Yes, we are privileged to be in this province, but many of the privileges that we've attained are here because of our education system. It is important that all children in Alberta have the same level of education. I will be meeting with federal ministers. I will be meeting with school boards that in many cases deliver services to aboriginal children, making sure that at the end of the day every child of every creed, of every race, of every geographical location has access to the same high-quality education."

A court case in Alberta involving a Metis woman and the death of an Aboriginal child in her care(she is accused of killing her 4 year old niece) has shone the light on the controversial kinship care program of child welfare agencies. The woman, with her own serious troubles was given six of her relative's children by Metis child welfare authorities. A Calgary MLA is alarmed by the situation involving the province's child welfare system and Aboriginal Albertans, specifically 'kinship care' in which efforts are made to ensure Aboriginal kids are placed with their own relations. Harry Chase believes the number of First Nations kids in care is significant enough to warrant raising the issue in the legislature this week. But Chase's words were quickly labelled "overly dramatic" by the Human Services Minister Dave Hancock. Here's an excerpt from that exchange in the legislature: "Mr. Chase: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. An alarming number of the 50 children killed while in this government's care in the past decade were First Nations; 67 per cent of the children currently in care have been taken from First Nations families. The abuse of Alberta's First Nations children hasn't ended. Instead, it has shifted from residential schools to provincial custodial care. To the Minister of Human Services: how can the government claim it is being culturally sensitive and responsible when it dumps six young children on relatives' doorsteps without due diligence? Mr. Hancock: Well, Mr. Speaker, the hon. member alludes to a matter which is still before the courts. I will say in a general sense that kinship care is a very important part of the care process for children in need. It is important in circumstances where families are available to keep children together and to keep them with family. That's often a choice that parents want to have if their children are being apprehended. They want to have a say in that process, so it's an important part of the process. The characterization is overly dramatic. It is important that we take care of children in . . .The Speaker: The hon. member, please. Mr. Chase: Mr. Speaker, I wouldn't suggest that 50 deaths is overly dramatic; it's a fact. What efforts are being made to support children and their birth parents within their homes before forcing them into foster care or kinship care and fast-tracking the adoption process? Mr. Hancock: Mr. Speaker, there is no intention on behalf of this government to take children out of families where families can be supported to help those children. It is not the first thing that government wants to do. At the front end of the system social workers and caregivers work with families first to make sure there are appropriate care plans where there is any indication of concern, and only after that, if there is a problem that cannot be resolved by support, do they apprehend the child."

October 27, 2011 - Canada's Aboriginal Affairs Minister John Duncan announced plans to "Remember the Legacy of Indian Residential Schools" on Parliament Hill. Stained glass artwork will become a permanent fixture in the Centre Block on Parliament Hill. "The stained glass artwork will honour the First Nations, Inuit and Metis children who attended Indian Residential Schools and their families and communities who were profoundly impacted by the schools' legacy,"stated Minister Duncan. The government will create "a permanent commemoration of the legacy of Indian Residential Schools so that Parliamentarians, and visitors for generations to come, will have the opportunity to learn about the history of Indian Residential Schools and Canada's reconciliation efforts". A panel of art experts will be established to recommend an Aboriginal artist who will design the stained glass artwork.

"Our institution failed to recognize or challenge the forced assimilation of Aboriginal peoples and the subsequent loss of their language, culture and traditions. That was a grave mistake, it is our responsibility and we are sorry." David Barnard, president of the University of Manitoba delivered an apology in Halifax at the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. "Today the University of Manitoba officially adds our voice to the apologies expressed by political and religious leaders and so graciously accepted by survivors, Aboriginal leaders and Elders. We hope our words will be accepted in the spirit of generosity and reconciliation that has been the hallmark of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission process. We apologize to our students who are the children, the grandchildren and great-grandchildren of Indian residential school survivors. We apologize to our Indigenous faculty, who have also been directly or indirectly harmed by the Indian residential school system. We also apologize to First Nations, Métis and Inuit leaders and Elders, recognizing that we need to build trust and fulfill our role as an open and welcoming community of learning, discovery and outreach. We apologize to the people and the communities who were the victims of this misguided policy." READ MORE

October 26, 2011 - Accidental. That's the finding of a coroner's inquest jury looking into the rooming house fire deaths of three Aboriginal men in Vancouver. Stephen Yellowquill, Dwayne Rasmussen and Garland McKay, died last December 22 in the fire on Pandora Street in an East Vancouver illegal rooming house. The jury determined the three men died of smoke inhalation, and Alcohol was a contributing factor - tests showed the men's blood alcohol levels were high enough to cause confusion. A faulty extension cord attached to lights on an artificial Christmas tree started the fire. The jury recommended BC government there be policy changes, to ensure local authorities can more easily shut down rental properties that are unsafe and a threat to life. The jury also called for increased penalties for landlords.

This week, Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) is holding a Food Symposium in Thunder Bay, to help connect individuals from across NAN territory "to collectively address the region's food system challenges, while finding shared community-based solutions". In a news release, Chief Stan Beardy stated that access to nutritious and well-balanced foods at affordable rates, is essential for the physical and mental well-being of communities. "Given the current conditions regarding food shortages and high pricing of food in NAN territory and around the world, NAN continues to assist communities in finding solutions . . .By working to address concerns related to diabetes, childhood obesity, affordability of healthy foods, and the sustainability of traditional food systems, we create a more healthy future for our generations to come." Highlights of the NAN Food Symposium include discussions on maintaining and promoting forest and fresh water food systems/traditional food systems, project planning and community involvement, alternative marketing structures, and building food skills in cultivation and preparation. Presentations will be made on areas such as growing food in the North, garden planning, bee keeping, raising chickens and collective harvests with workshops being held on food preservation. The news release explained that NAN has undertaken a number of diverse initiatives to assist with the high-cost of nutritious foods in NAN territory. This past summer an initiative through the Nutrition North Canada program saw several communities receive fresh, healthy produce at reduced rates. Most recently, four applications from remote First Nations (Fort Albany, Keewaywin, Sandy Lake and Wapekeka/Wawakapewin) were selected to develop and implement community-led food projects as part of a two-year pilot project through the Ontario Ministry of Health Promotion and Sport – Healthy Communities Fund. Nishnawbe Aski Nation is a political territorial organization representing 49 First Nation communities in James Bay Treaty No. 9 and Ontario portions of Treaty No. 5 – an area covering two thirds of the province of Ontario.

October 25th, 2011 - A racist slur that has sparked criticism from an Inuit leader has prompted the Parliamentary Secretary for the Wheat Board to apologize. Saskatchewan Member of Parliament David Anderson offended Inuit by using an Eskimo slur in an animated video. National Inuit Leader Mary Simon denounces the inclusion of a racist Aboriginal slur in the video on the MP's website. The comment "Slow down young man, you are talking Eskimo" can be heard in an animated video depicting farmers discussing critical issues related to the Canadian Wheat Board. Simon says "The comment is offensive to Inuit, has no place in public discussion, and certainly no place on the website of an elected Member of Parliament. My hope is that the MP in question did not know it was part of the animated video, and that it will be removed immediately. We will write to the MP in question to make this view known and to request that the video be altered to remove the offensive phrase."

This is the second time in a week there has been a racial slur by a politician that has targeted Aboriginal Canadians. Greg Ottenbreit, the Saskatchewan Party's candidate in Yorkton in the provincial election was forced to apologize for his recent comments. At a candidates public forum he argued against the NDP proposal to share resource revenues with First Nations, and mentioned concerns that government handouts to First Nations people would be spent on drugs and alcohol. The Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations has called for Ottenbreit's resignation. That's not likely to happen, considering the fact he still has party support.

Federal funding flowed at the start of the Entrepreneurs Conference and Tradeshow in Ottawa, hosted by the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business. Canada's Aboriginal Affairs Minister John Duncan announced funds for three projects and one investment fund "that will help Aboriginal entrepreneurs to expand and grow their businesses and create jobs across the country". 1.) A contribution of $3,112,000 is going toward funding for the Metis Entrepreneurship Fund (MEF), which was established to respond to a demand for mid-market loan financing for Metis entrepreneurs and will serve as a financial tool to generate opportunities for Metis businesses in the Prairies. The MEF is managed by three Metis capital corporations: the Apeetogosan Metis Development Inc. (Alberta), SaskMetis Economic Development Corporation (Saskatchewan) and the Louis Riel Capital Corporation (Manitoba). 2.) Kitsaki Mining Limited Partnership is receiving $1,236,000 to assist the Lac La Ronge Indian Band's Kitsaki Mining Limited Partnership to participate in mining activities in Lac La Ronge, Saskatchewan. This project is expected to provide significant economic benefits to Lac La Ronge Indian Band and the surrounding communities, including the creation of many jobs, as well as skills training opportunities for First Nation people. 3.) The Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada are receiving $348,633 to lead a project entitled, Inuit Women in Business Network. The funding will establish the Network, create a toolkit of resources supporting Aboriginal entrepreneurship in the North, financial literacy and business development, an information sharing web portal, a peer/mentorship program model, a national roundtable, and an in-depth final report and evaluation. 4.)The Cooperative d'Ivujivik is receiving $200,000 for the construction of a new 16 room hotel for tourists, business people and officials travelling and working in the Nunavik region of Quebec. The new hotel will create full and part-time employment opportunities in the Inuit community of Ivujivik.

We have known for some time that First Nations children and families who live in reserve-based communities in Canada, are not treated the same as other Canadians. It's been true for years, and now an international spotlight is being shined on the Canadian government for lack of fairness in how it treats First Nations. Specific proof is that funding provided by the government for health, education and child welfare to children and families is much lower on reserves than elsewhere in Canada. How can this inequity continue? Now, the United Nations is being asked to help First Nations in their pursuit of justice and fairness. "Many Indigenous children do not have the basic necessities of life," said Dr. Cindy Blackstock, Executive Director of the Caring Society. "Their communities lack access to clean water or safe, affordable housing. And some are educated in deplorable conditions." In a report titled Honouring the Children, the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) is being asked to end inequalities for First Nations. Indigenous children face neglect, abuse and sometimes death as a result of Canada's failure to live up to its obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, according to the report submitted by the First Nations Child and Family Caring Society of Canada and KAIROS Canadian Ecumenical Justice Initiatives. Among the many recommendations - The Committee is being asked to "engage a special study on Canada's implementation of the UNCRC with respect to the rights of Indigenous children". The report says some First Nations schools are contaminated by black mould and not properly heated. One school was closed due to an infestation of snakes. Another is closed an average of 22 days each year due to a lack of drinking water. "We would like to ask the federal government why there are no schools in many of our communities and why so many of our schools are in such poor conditions," said Caitlin Tolley, an Indigenous youth leader and First Nation Algonquin from the community of Kitigan-Zibi adjacent to Maniwaki, Quebec. "We want to know why the level of funding we receive for education is less compared to communities in other parts of Canada."

The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) has launched an initiative - Ka Na Ta Conversations, aimed at encouraging a new and inclusive dialogue among Indigenous peoples and all Canadians. It is intended to address misunderstandings and develop a new perspective on Canadian identity "fully inclusive of the Indigenous reality and world view". "The Ka Na Ta Conversations are a series of dialogues and exchanges by prominent Canadians reflecting on Canadian identity and potential ways of promoting new ways forward. Featuring commentary from Indigenous and non-Indigenous thinkers in Canada, this initiative is intended to spark much-needed dialogue to uncover the real potential of Indigenous peoples in Canada." The KA NA TA Conversations recall the original relationships (as between Jacques Cartier and the Iroquois and Huron who explained, pointing that this land was 'ka na ta' or the village) and explore the pressing need to correct misunderstandings and injustices of the past as a key element of constructing the Canadian identity of the future. "The KA NA TA Conversations are designed to inspire and encourage new conversations among all Canadians through embracing an Indigenous worldview."

October 24, 2011 - A Tsilhqot'in Nation leader, Chief Marilyn Baptiste of Xeni Gwet'in, has been presented with the prestigious Eugene Rogers Environmental Award. It is in recognition for "her work on behalf of the Tsilhqot'in Nation to protect Teztan Biny (Fish Lake) from being destroyed by the proposed Prosperity Mine". The Eugene Rogers Award is given out annually by the Wilderness Committee, to a person who has made an outstanding contribution to environmental protection. The award comes with a $1,000 prize. Chief Baptiste is the elected leader of Xeni Gwet'in, one of the communities of the Tsilhqot'in Nation, whose territory largely lies to the west of the Fraser River and Williams Lake, BC. Throughout 2010 Chief Baptiste became known as a spirited speaker who traveled the province on behalf of the Tsilhqot'in Nation to explain the importance of Teztan Biny (Fish Lake) to the Tsilhqot'in people and to call for the cancellation of plans to destroy the lake in order to put in a huge open-pit copper and gold mine. The proposed mine was named 'Prosperity' by the mining company Taseko Ltd that holds the claim. Teztan Biny (Fish Lake) is home to an estimated 80,000 rainbow trout and would have been used as a toxic tailings pond had the mine gone ahead. In November of 2010, the federal government of Canada turned down the project, citing unacceptable environmental impacts, even though the BC government had earlier green-lighted the proposed mine. "Through all the drama of the BC government approval of the mine, and then the federal government rejection of the mine, Chief Baptiste remained a clear and passionate voice for the protection of Teztan Biny (Fish Lake) and the surrounding environment it sustains," said Joe Foy, National Campaign Director of the Wilderness Committee. "We are proud to give this award to such a strong voice for the protection of the environment," said Foy. Taseko Mines Ltd. is now proposing to turn neighbouring Little Fish Lake into a toxic tailings pond and is asking the federal government of Canada to reconsider their mine proposal. Chief Baptiste and the Tsilhqot'in Nation remain opposed to the company's mine plans. Eleven environmental groups, including the Wilderness Committee, have recently said that a gold and copper mine at Little Fish Lake would be even more of an environmental disaster than the company's original proposal and must be turned down for federal public review.

Phil Fontaine, former AFN National Chief is being recognized this week as an outstanding Canadian by the University of Ottawa at its ninth annual Distinguished Canadian Leadership Awards (DCLA) ceremony. The University of Ottawa explains that exceptional leadership is characterized by qualities such as the expression and execution of a high purpose and of service to the community at large, an indelible impact on the community, innovative approaches to national concerns and aspirations, unwavering determination and significant contributions to the creation of a strong sense of Canadian community. "Phil Fontaine is the longest-serving national chief of the Assembly of First Nations, and the only national chief to serve three terms, from 1997 to 2000 and from 2003 to 2009. The youngest in an Ojibway family of 12, he was first elected chief of the Sagkeeng First Nation when he was 28. He then served as vice-chief for the Assembly of First Nations, and as grand chief of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs. As AFN national chief, he negotiated the 2005 Indian Residential Schools Settlement, which provided $5.6 billion in compensation to survivors of abuse (of which he was one) and an apology from the Canadian government. He also sought to make the AFN more inclusive, functioning in both English and French, and recommended changes to its structure. In between his two stints as national chief, he served as chief commissioner of the Indian Claims Commission, helping to settle several land claims."

October 23,2011 - October Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo, a small group of First Nation leaders, and First Nation business proponents, are in China this week, to discuss economic development partnerships opportunities with Chinese government officials and Chinese businesses. National Chief Atleo and AFN Yukon Regional Chief Eric Morris are there with First Nation government and business leaders from several regions including BC, Alberta and Ontario. One of the highlights of the visit, will be a Totem Pole Raising Ceremony on Thursday, a Gift presented by Grand Chief Ed John to the people of Beichuan, on behalf of First Nations across Canada, after their city was ravaged by a devastating earthquake in 2008. National Chief Atleo and delegates have been invited to attend and participate in this showcase of friendship to help the people of Beichuan on their road to recovery. The totem pole will be raised in a newly constructed museum in Beichuan. This week's Trade Mission to China will be the first of many potential visits to foreign countries in the hope of developing international interest to invest in trade and economic opportunities in First Nation communities. "First Nations recognize the growing importance of Asian markets, and the opportunity to seek out a competitive advantage to expand economic opportunities for First Nations and all of Canada. First Nations have innovative plans for community-based sustainable economic development and we are reaching out to partners nationally and internationally for opportunities that work for our peoples and communities," said Atleo. The AFN has been mandated by First Nation leadership across Canada to facilitate international relationships. The Ambassador of China to Canada addressed Chiefs during the Special Chiefs Assembly in 2010 and also during the International Indigenous Summit on Energy and Mining held in Niagara Falls June 2011 along with delegations from other countries. "This official visit to China is a mission of encouraging exchange and trade opportunities," said AFN Yukon Regional Chief Eric Morris who also holds the national portfolio for Economic Partnerships. "First Nations are not opposed to development that is sustainable and environmentally responsible. In fact, we welcome the opportunity to work with governments and industry from the outset based on the principles of free, prior and informed consent as set out in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). The AFN has worked closely with several First Nations on this initial trip and in particular, the BC First Nations Energy and Mining Council. The AFN and BC First Nations officials have worked with the Embassy for the Peoples Republic of China, and the Canadian Government and its consulate office in Beijing. The Friendship Association for Foreign Countries of China will be hosting the delegation during the Trade Mission.

October 22, 2011 - Another important step closer to a Treaty - Sliammon First Nation Chief Clint Williams led his community in a celebration Friday, as he was joined by BC Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister Mary Polak and Federal Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Minister John Duncan for the negotiators initialling of the Tla'amin final agreement. "The intent of the Final Agreement is to provide a solid foundation for our children and grandchildren," said Chief Williams. "Now that the agreement has been reached, staff will be focused on explaining the benefits of the agreement to the Tla'amin community, in preparation for a ratification vote." The Tla'amin Nation will receive a capital transfer of approximately $29.7 million over 10 years, economic development funding of approximately $6.9 million, and a Fishing Vessel Fund of $250,000. B.C. and Canada will each provide $331,292 annually in resource revenue sharing for 50 years. The Tla'amin Final Agreement contains provisions for self-government, financial and land transfers. The land component will consist of approximately 8,322 hectares of treaty lands that include surface and sub-surface resources, and comprised of 1,917 hectares of former Indian Reserves and 6,405 hectares of former Provincial Crown lands. The treaty also provides for the ownership of forestry resources, as well as domestic fishing, gathering and harvesting rights. (Commercial fishing opportunities will be licensed by the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans and managed under the terms and conditions that apply to other commercial fishers.) Following community ratification, the provincial and federal governments will undertake their ratification processes. The Tla'amin Nation has approximately 990 members. Their traditional territory and reserve lands are located just north of Powell River. There are six reserves on just over 1,917 hectares.

The Gitxsan Nation wrapped up its annual summit after three days of presentations and discussion that highlighted economic opportunities potentially coming to the area. "We own 33,000 sq. kms. of land which has sustained us for thousands of years. For too long we watched resources leave our territories without a say in its destination or a share in the profits," said Elmer Derrick, Chief Negotiator with the Gitxsan Chiefs. "In July of this year, we launched the Gitxsan Development Corporation. It is an economic vehicle the Gitxsan can use to explore all these opportunities being presented to drive responsible development on our lands." Rick Connors, CEO of the Gitxsan Development Corporation stated: "I have been told the Gitxsan will die on the hill for the food supply. . .As the theme of this year's summit suggests, all decisions we make in pursuing business on Gitxsan land remains faithful to the laws of the people. Those who wish to do business in Gitxsan territory will be held to Gitxsan standards." (The theme of this year's summit was "AYOOKW Gitxsan". Ayookw means "Gitxsan law practiced in the Wilp Li'ligit" feast hall). About 250 people attended per day and special prizes were given out to encourage youth to attend. 20-25 young people watched the proceeding each day. Chiefs at the summit also reiterated their support for the Jackson family, whose son Rodney was killed two years ago by an RCMP Emergency response team in the village of Kisgagaas. Delegates were reminded of the words of Gwis Gyen (Stanley Williams) during the famous Delgamuukw trial. "All Gitxsan people use a common law. This is like an ancient tree that has grown the roots right deep into the ground. This is the way our law is. It's sunk. The big tree's roots are sunk deep into the ground, and that's how our law is."

October 21, 2011 - The Osoyoos Indian Band in the southern Okanagan Valley is celebrating the grand opening of the Senkulmen Business Park - a light industrial/commercial park that integrates natural landscaping, water conservation, and energy conservation into the park design. Approximately 96 of the site's 207 acres have been set aside as an ecological zone. "The Osoyoos Indian Band is committed to building projects that bring prosperity and employment to our people and hence to the larger Okanagan Region," said Chief Clarence Louie. "The Senkulmen Business Park represents our substantial efforts, coupled with the support of the Federal Government, to build a vibrant and diversified economy. As we have seen in our past, partnerships with the Federal Government provide the much needed infrastructure for large capital projects such as the Senkulmen Business Park to succeed. This celebration today acknowledges and thanks the Government of Canada for their wisdom in investing in the future opportunities of both First Nations and non First Nations to secure meaningful employment in the South Okanagan." The Government of Canada invested $5.4 million through Western Economic Diversification Canada's Community Adjustment Fund (CAF) and Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada's Community Economic Opportunity Program (CEOP), as part of Canada's Economic Action Plan. Other project partners included BMO and the Osoyoos Indian Band. The Osoyoos Indian Band is home to approximately 475 people in the southern Okanagan Valley. The Band operates several businesses including North America's first Aboriginal-owned winery (Nk'mip Cellars), the Nk'mip Desert Cultural Centre and the Nk'mip Canyon Desert Golf Course, and has employees from over 35 different First Nations.

October 20, 2011 - A "part time" Minister of Aboriginal Affairs riles the Chiefs of Ontario. Regional Chief Angus Toulouse noted the appointment of Minister Kathleen Wynne to lead both the Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs and the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. "First Nations will not tolerate being treated as municipalities under the jurisdiction of the provincial government." The Chiefs of Ontario issued a news release expressing their disappointment that the new Cabinet of Ontario doesn't include a full time Minister of Aboriginal Affairs, but were not surprised, given the lack of First Nations issues raised during the recent provincial election campaign.

Anishinabek Grand Council Chief Patrick Madahbee says that he is pleased with Premier Dalton McGuinty's cabinet announcement and looks forward to working with all of the ministers to advance First Nation issues in Ontario. "We hope this Liberal government will take immediate action on issues with First Nations education, health, child welfare, economic development and resource-revenue sharing which all have been long-standing issues," says Madahbee. The Grand Council Chief hopes that new Aboriginal Affairs minister, Kathleen Wynne, who is also the municipal affairs minister, will focus her attention on the outstanding Ipperwash recommendations.

Interestingly, the Ipperwash recommendations called for a Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs with a dedicated minister and its own deputy Minister. Reacting to the Ontario Cabinet announcement, Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) Grand Chief Stan Beardy said - once again the Premier of Ontario is expressing his lack of commitment to make Aboriginal Affairs in Ontario a priority. Today, Premier McGuinty announced his newest Cabinet which consists of one Minister responsible for both Municipal Affairs and Housing, and Aboriginal Affairs. "It is blatantly obvious that once again, Premier McGuinty is expressing his very little regard for Aboriginal Affairs and working to resolve concerns by First Nations people in Ontario, as he does not see the merit of having a stand-alone minister responsible for working with us," said NAN Grand Chief Stan Beardy. "With the enormous potential for development in the North, First Nations are now – more than ever demanding their Treaty and Aboriginal rights be respected when dealing with matters affecting their homelands but Premier McGuinty continues to disregard those rights. It's essential that there be a Cabinet minister at the Ontario level fully dedicated to work with us to create a mutually beneficial relationship."

The Union of BC Indian Chiefs(UBCIC)is calling on the Harper Government to take immediate action to deal with the discovery that a highly contagious virus, Infectious Salmon Anaemia (ISA) has been discovered in Pacific Coast fish. The disturbing findings of Simon Fraser University professor Rick Routledge and biologist Alexander Morton revealed that sockeye smolts from Rivers Inlet have tested positive for a strain of ISA. "Wild salmon is central and integral to who we are as Indigenous Peoples. With this startling announcement, it is imperative for the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans to take action. The scientists have stated that this virus is highly contagious. It would be ill-advised for DFO Minister Keith Ashfield and Prime Minister Stephen Harper to wait for the recommendations of the Cohen Commission to counter this virus emergency. At the very least, as a responsible proactive measure, the Harper Government should immediately provide emergency funding for comprehensive testing to find out how wide-spread the virus is," said Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, President of the UBCIC. Chief Bob Chamberlin, Vice-President of the UBCIC, stated "The top priority of DFO should be the protection of wild salmon as per their own Wild Salmon Policy. DFO cannot ignore the fact that the only possible source of the European strain of ISA is Atlantic salmon fish farms. DFO cannot continue to be blinded by their insidious relationship with the fish farm industry. We as Indigenous Peoples, British Columbians and Canadians must act now because we cannot afford to allow ISA to take away our children's birthright." Chief Chamberlin further stated "With ISA now identified in wild salmon, we must take the utmost precautionary measures along the whole coast. As such the Kwikwasutinuxw-Haxwa'mis First Nation demands all fish farm Atlantic salmon in our territory be removed immediately." Chief Jonathan Kruger of the Penticton Indian Band expressed concerns stating "The Penticton Indian Band has devoted considerable time and significant resources to revive the wild salmon runs in our territory. As a community, we have relied on wild salmon since time immemorial and it is deeply disturbing to hear the horrific news that this deadly virus ISA has been found in wild salmon." Chief Joe Alphonse, Tribal Chair of the Tsilhqot'in National Government, remarked "ISA is a huge concern for the Tsilhqot'in National Government as we are home to the most consistent sockeye run in the Fraser River Basin, the Chilko Lake salmon run. The Tsilhqot'in National Government continues to work hard to assess, catalogue and to further enhance the Chilko Lake salmon runs. It is a fact that the salmon spawning in the Upper Fraser are more prone to disease and mortality. It is time for DFO to stop experimenting with fish farms and with our wild salmon. It is time to do away with fish farms." Grand Chief Phillip concluded "What we fear is that the Harper Government will protect third-party interests at the expense of biodiversity and the constitutionally protected rights of Indigenous Peoples. As such, the Union of BC Indian Chiefs will continue to fully support any and all Indigenous communities who choose to pursue all available steps to ensure that their rights are recognized, respected and protected."

October 19, 2011 - There's disappointment in the Mohawk community of Kahnawake were John Duncan, Canada's Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, was to meet with Grand Chief Michael Ahrihron Delisle, Jr. this morning. They were expected to participate in an important signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Kahnawa:ke / Canada Relations. However, the Mohawk Council of Kahnawa:ke has announced that signing must be delayed because "due to unforeseen circumstances" Minister Duncan has cancelled his visit to the community.

Fish farms in Canada's west coast waters have a target painted on them that grows bigger and bigger by the day. The latest controversy is spawned by a report that wild salmon are suffering from an infection whose likely source is the fish farms. For the first time, a European strain of Infectious Salmon Anaemia (ISA) has been found within the wild salmon of the Pacific Coast. According to scientists, ISA has only appeared where salmon are raised in aquaculture and has spread worldwide since first being reported in Norway in 1984. "Outraged, disgusted and appalled . . ." Among those who have been fighting to get the fish farm industry to fess up and accept responsibility for the ongoing threats to the wild stock salmon, is a high profile First Nation leader, Chief Bob Chamberlin of Kwikwasutinuxw-Haxwa'mis First Nation. "Salmon is an integral component of our peoples food supply and one that supports a vibrant culture that has existed since time immemorial. Wild Salmon provided sustenance and economy for our Peoples. The Governments embracing of the Aquaculture Industry in an unholy marriage that must change now," said Chief Chamberlin. The highly contagious marine influenza virus, Infectious Salmon Anaemia (ISA) has for the first time been officially reported after being found in the Pacific on B.C.'s central coast. Now it threatens both wild salmon and herring, say biologist Alexandra Morton and Simon Fraser University professor Rick Routledge, whose laboratory led to the discovery of ISA in B.C. salmon smolts. Chief Chamberlin explains this is a serious matter of legal rights for First Nations, "We have stood opposed to this industries operation within our Traditional Territories for 3 decades, looking for every opportunity to have our First Nations Aboriginal Title and Rights respected and incorporated, as described in numerous Supreme Court of Canada (SCC) rulings. Sadly, we have witnessed "Business as Usual" from both the Provincial and Federal Governments disregarding SCC rulings."

The province of British Columbia may have a woman as Premier, however its treatment of women (systemic discrimination) leaves a lot to be desired, according to the latest 'report card' from the West Coast Legal Education and Action Fund. . . For the second year in a row, British Columbia has scored an overall C- in women's rights, because of "detrimental practices particularly affecting low income and marginalized women". Included in the Report Card is confirmation of how Aboriginal women are among the hardest hit. "The most socially impoverished group of women in BC is low-income Aboriginal women, cited five times in the report. In addition to issues relating to Missing and Murdered Aboriginal Women and Girls and Women and Girls in Prison, Aboriginal women are at a heightened risk of violence and suffer from substandard housing and correspondingly poor health." The report also says Aboriginal women are among those most affected by homelessness and unstable housing situations. "Nearly half of the women experiencing homelessness in Metro Vancouver are Aboriginal." Canada ratified the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) in 1981. The CEDAW Report Card assesses how well BC is measuring up to some of the CEDAW obligations that are within provincial jurisdiction. West Coast LEAF Legal Director Laura Track says, "BC is a wealthy and prosperous province that has been internationally recognized for its livability. But for the tens of thousands of British Columbians experiencing poverty, marginalization and deprivation, it is anything but livable. The long-term costs of poverty, inadequate social assistance, and lack of legal aid far outweigh the up front investments required for housing, access to justice and greater economic security. BC could live up to its potential as a livable, wealthy province while creating a more equitable society." Once again, a failing grade was awarded in the category of Women and Access to Justice. Two marks decreased this year. Women and Girls in Prison was reduced to C+ from last year's B-, due to the ongoing use of solitary confinement for "high risk" female prisoners, increasing over-representation of incarcerated Aboriginal women, treatment of transgendered inmates, and the government’s refusal to reinstate the mother-baby program in BC's women's prison. The grade for Missing and Murdered Aboriginal Women and Girls was raised from an F to a C last year due in large part to the government finally agreeing to hold a public inquiry into the death and disappearance of so many of BC's Aboriginal women and girls. "Disappointingly, that grade was lowered this year to a D-. Despite initially hopeful signs of an investigation into the failed systemic response to this issue, the province's decision not to fund the meaningful participation of community groups makes it highly unlikely that there will be a meaningful process or results."

October 18, 2011 - "She committed her life to strengthening Indian Country and she contributed greatly." Condolences continue to flow, in tributes to the well known American Indian activist, Eloise Cobell. A funeral service will be held Saturday in Montana for the Blackfeet woman who led a 15-year legal fight to recover billions of dollars owed to American Indian landowners by the U.S. government. The funeral for Elouise Cobell will be held at 11 a.m. at the high school in Browning, Montana followed by a burial at Cobell's Blacktail Ranch. The family also will hold a viewing Friday at 5 p.m. in the high school's gymnasium. Eloise Cobell died Sunday in Great Falls from complications due to cancer. She was the lead plaintiff in a class-action lawsuit filed in 1996 that claimed the Interior Department had misspent, lost or stolen billions of dollars meant for Native American land trust account holders dating back to the 1880s. A $3.4 billion settlement was approved earlier this year.

The President of the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), Jefferson Keel, called for Indian Country to honor the legacy of one of Indian Country's most influential advocates by continuing to protect the rights of American Indian and Alaska Native people everywhere. NCAI also called for Indian Country to honor Ms. Cobell's life by confronting the quiet but devastating force of cancer, which took her life and is the second leading cause of death among American Indian women and Natives older than 45. "Elouise Cobell represented the indelible will and strength of Indian Country and her influence and energy will be greatly missed. Her passing on from this world must be honored by reaffirming our resolute commitment as Indigenous peoples to protect the rights of our citizens and our sovereign nations," said Keel. "NCAI joins all who mourn the loss of this great individual. She committed her life to strengthening Indian Country and she contributed greatly." Elouise Cobell was presented with NCAI's Indian Country Leadership Award that recognized her years of work as the spokesperson and moral force behind the effort to restore justice to American Indian account holders. NCAI has also passed resolutions strongly supporting the Cobell settlement. "From her life, we have lessons of resilience and commitment, and in her passing, we have lessons that will inspire us to continue improving the health of Native people," continued Keel. "Just like Elouise taught us, we must not shy away from taking on what seems impossible. We must acknowledge cancer's vicious assault on Indian Country's most valuable resource, our people. We will honor her with a promise to the future generation of leaders that follow in Elouise Cobell's footsteps, to continue the fight for the health of our people." According to Native American Cancer Research (NACR), cancer is the second leading cause of death among American Indian women and among American Indians older than 45 years of age. In 2008 the American Cancer Society released the first large-scale national study about cancer rates of American Indians and Alaska Natives. The report stated "For all cancers combined: Incidence rates among American Indians in the Southwest, the Plains and for Alaska Natives were 50 percent higher than the rates for non-Hispanic whites."

October 17, 2011 - The Mounties say 35 yr old Cynthia Frances Maas (known as Cindy to family and friends) was one of the victims of a serial killer who they have charged with her murder. The following is the statement issued by the Maas family: "Our family has come forward publicly to speak on behalf of Cindy and the importance of recognizing who she was as a person and to highlight the urgency to ensure safety for all women in our society. Cindy had a right to live, to overcome her struggles, to become strong, and to be the mother she wanted to be. The programs in Prince George available for struggling persons are what brought Cindy to Prince George for help. Cindy was a social victim of disability, ethnicity, class, gender as well as suffering the greatest indignity as a victim of murder, she is a poster child for vulnerability in our society. We would like Canada to strengthen the human rights of women, to provide policies and legislation which protect the vulnerable in our society. We are asking those in leadership to increase the funding for victims of violence, mental health and addictions. Our family would like journalists to please refrain from highlighting gender and lifestyle descriptions as it numbs public empathy and detracts from focusing on the brutal murder, in essence it does not help to prevent further injustices against women. We are concerned about all the other unsolved missing and murdered women. Murders do not just harm families but our society is harmed as we forget and are numbed by senseless violence perpetrated against women portrayed as deserving of death. Our family acknowledges society does not intend to harm the disabled through lack of opportunity, or the aboriginal through racism, or the female through classification and role distribution, but the harm is evident as women in Canada continue to struggle. Our family would like to see police around Canada attain the resources they need to solve these crimes as they occur. We would like to thank the investigative team from the RCMP detachment in Prince George who worked diligently and with great sensitivity to our families."

The Mounties have reported a major breakthrough in their investigation of the multiple murders of women in northern British Columbia. Murder charges have been laid in connection with the latest serial killings, alleged to have been the work of 21 year old Cody Alan Legebokoff. The Mounties in northern British Columbia have laid murder charges against an alleged serial killer of women, including Aboriginal women in northern BC. 3 counts of first degree murder have been laid against Legebokoff from Prince George in connection with the deaths of 35 year old Jill Stacey Stuchenko, 35 year old Cynthia Frances Maas, and 23 year old Natasha Lynn Montgomery. Legebokoff was arrested this past Friday at the Prince George Regional Correctional Center where he is currently awaiting trial in the November 2010 homicide of 15 year old Loren Donn Leslie from Fraser Lake, BC. viewtopic.php?p=13937#p13937

A special repatriation ceremony was held today on the lawns of Cadigal Green in the Darlington Campus at the University of Sydney, Australia - the largest repatriation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ancestral remains ever undertaken by a University museum. Community elders from the Armidale and Tamworth communities participated in a smoking ceremony for six ancestral remains that had been held in the University's Shellshear Museum of Anatomy. A smoking ceremony is a spiritual process that cleanses the remains after being away from their home country. Tree leaves from the country where the remains were found are brought to Sydney, and the remains wrapped in bark from their local community before the ceremony. Today's event marked the 250th repatriation, part of a process that began in 1994.

October 16, 2011 - For the first time in Canada, a First Nations flag is now flying with provincial and national flags in front of a government building. The Treaty 4 flag is flying permanently at city hall in Regina, Saskatchewan. "As the Treaty 4 flag is raised beside the provincial and Canadian flags in front of a government building for the first time in our country's history, may all First Nations people throughout Canada be filled with pride and gratitude, pride in the richness of our heritage and gratitude for those who stood for this powerful symbol of peaceful co-existence and mutual respect," said Treaty 4 Chief Perry Bellegarde. Last Thursday's flag raising ceremony was the culmination of several years of discussion and relationship building between the City of Regina and south Saskatchewan First Nations. "Today, we acknowledge the importance of Treaty, not just to First Nations people but to all Canadians, and the message of community and sharing intended by Treaty," said Regina Mayor Pat Fiacco. "This gathering of First Nations and non-Aboriginal people is testament to the message of unity we are sending to the entire nation." The Treaty 4 flag was envisioned by the late Elder Gordon Oakes whose dream it was for the people of Treaty 4 territory to have their own flag to be raised with the national and provincial flags. His son Larry Oakes explained, "The flag represents the spirit of working together with all people on this land". Chief Perry Bellegarde, Treaty 4 spokesperson added, "When Treaty 4 was entered into in 1874, our Chiefs had in mind securing a future for the children not yet born. Now those children are our Elders, our grandmothers and grandfathers, our mothers and fathers, our teachers and mentors, and our youth who hold the future in their hands". Following the flag raising, there was a Sweat Lodge Ceremony, traditional feast, and a Pipe Ceremony to bless the event and honour the ancestors and future generations. Treaty 4 was first signed on September 15, 1874 at Fort Qu'Appelle. There are 34 First Nations located in Treaty 4 territory with 27 located in Saskatchewan. The remaining are in Manitoba.

October 15, 2011 - First Nations will be consulted on key BC oil and gas decisions. This relates specifically to the controversy over the practice of "fracking" - the use of fresh water by oil and gas companies to drill for natural gas.(the process of "fracking" uses pressurized water and chemicals to blast natural gas out of underground rocks) The BC Oil and Gas Commission is authorized through Section 8 of the Water Act to issue short term use of water permits to industry for use in oil and gas operations. A recent Commission directive advises industry that the Commission will now be "consulting with applicable First Nations on all applications for short term water use that may potentially affect rights recognized and affirmed by Section 35(1) of the Constitution Act, 1982."

October 14, 2011 - Based on documents obtained through Access to Information, activities of First Nations organizations are being monitored for potential threats against security in the form of espionage, sabotage, subversion, terrorism, extremism or criminal activities according to a report in the Globe and Mail. It states the documents obtained contain information on "native plans" for a protest blockade of Highway 401, and the possibility of a backlash among "aboriginal groups" over Ontario's introduction of the harmonized sales tax. The report specifically noted that: "A possibility exists that First Nations extremists opposed to the HST may engage in activities with the potential to impact public safety in Ontario." Ontario Regional Chief Angus Toulouse is appalled by the military monitoring of First Nations advocacy activities, "The intelligence services and authorities in this country should spend more time educating themselves about the rights of First Nations people in this country". The Regional Chief further noted that advocacy by the Chiefs of Ontario and First Nations in Ontario should not be viewed as a threat to national security because the advocacy is based on rights recognized in the Constitution of Canada and in international human rights instruments such as the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the Convention Against All Forms of Racial Discrimination. "Our relationship does not have to be based in conflict or plagued by fear. That is a fact. Working towards a dialogue and relationship based on our rights, honoring the Treaties and the principle of free, prior and informed consent is the clear alternative to dispute and mistrust. We will continue to pursue this proactive and productive agenda." A news release explained that the Chiefs of Ontario advocacy includes peaceful, non-violent forms of protest as a method of getting the attention of the decision-makers. In the instance of the HST such advocacy and political action produced results in getting an arrangement on the HST for the benefit of First Nations peoples in Ontario in accordance with their rights. "Were Canada's intelligence services deployed when British Columbians conducted their protest rallies and marches and voted to reject the HST in their province? I doubt very much that the British Columbians were deemed as a potential threat to security for rejecting the HST. So it simply goes to show that the Canadian State still actively engages in discriminatory conduct against First Nations peoples. Accountability and transparency requires that the Minister of National Defense be accountable for his Department's conduct. That's how the Canadian system works," said Regional Chief Toulouse.

October 13, 2011 - Canadian health history was made today as First Nations, Canada and BC signed an agreement that ensures First Nations governance of First Nations health. The Tripartite Framework Agreement on First Nations Health Governance is a ground-breaking document, setting a framework for increased First Nations governance over health, based on a First Nation definition of health and wellness. "Today's ceremonies mark the conclusion of three years of hard work and negotiations among all three parties to produce a positive outcome for the First Nations of British Columbia, said Grand Chief Doug Kelly who Chaired this First Nations Health Council initiative. The framework sets the stage for the transfer of the Pacific Region of Health Canada's First Nations Health Branch, to a First Nations Health Authority. Over the next two years, the federal government will transfer the planning, design, management and delivery of First Nations health programs. The First Nations Health Authority will incorporate First Nations' cultural knowledge, beliefs, values and models of healing into the design and delivery of health programs that better meet the needs of First Nations communities.

Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation in Saskatchewan is celebrating the opening of a new elementary school at Deschambault Lake. "We are proud of our new school and the hard work that went into its construction," said Darrell McCallum, Chief of the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation. "This new elementary school provides a much-needed and improved learning environment for our children." The new school replaces the previous one destroyed by fire in 2005. The $20 million project included design and construction of the new school, roadways, parking lots, playing fields and landscaping. It accommodates 80 nursery/kindergarten students and 170 grade one to grade five students. Deschambault Lake, a community of about 900 residents and located about 275 kilometres northeast of Prince Albert, is one of six communities that make up the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation. Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation has 4,712 members residing on reserve and 3,196 members living off reserve.

October 12, 2011 - In NW Ontario they are celebrating the grand opening of Wabaseemoong First Nation's new school - the Mizhakiiwetung Memorial School. "I look forward to witnessing generations of learners passing through the school and reaching their full potential," said Chief Eric Nelson Fisher. The Mizhakiiwetung Memorial School is a 16 classroom facility for kindergarten to grade 12 students. This 4,515 square metre school accommodates up to 460 students. In addition, the 8.4 hectares site includes a hockey rink, a baseball diamond, a multi-purpose track and field and a separate fenced area for kindergarten students, which includes play equipment. This project was made possible by $25 million from Canada's Economic Action Plan (CEAP). "I would like to acknowledge the Government of Canada, as without its fundamental contributions, this project would not have been possible," said the Chief of the Wabaseemoong First Nation, located 95 kilometres northwest of Kenora, Ontario. It has a total population of 1,827, of which 907 live on reserve.

BC's Treaty Commission has delivered its strongest criticism of the BC Treaty Process, suggesting that if major changes aren't made, the process may be lost. "The lack of urgency in treaty negotiations, for which all parties must accept some of the responsibility, remains a concern of the Treaty Commission. Direction is urgently required from the highest level - the Prime Minister, Premier and First Nations Summit Task Group - to shake the status quo." said Chief Commissioner Sophie Pierre. "I am asking the Principals to formally recommit to the intent of the BC Treaty Commission Agreement signed in 1992. . .Prospects for the coming year provide some hope we can turn this thing around in a meaningful way. Treaty revitalization work being undertaken by senior officials for each of the three Principals is important if we are to see real change and progress in the negotiations. This work includes the reconsideration of the role of the Treaty Commission. . .It is clearer to me this year that the parties must move away from entrenched positions and move towards the interests of true reconciliation through fair and timely negotiations. From the federal government we need clarity as to their mandate and transparency in its delivery. It is expected, and indeed vital, that the parties give clear mandates to their chief negotiators. Once an agreement has been reached that has taken years of work and millions of dollars, there should be no need to subject it to a long, internal review without an explanation to the other parties. From the provincial government we need to see strong ties between interim measures such as Reconciliation Agreements and Strategic Engagement Agreements and treaty negotiations. While beneficial to First Nation communities, these are timelimited arrangements. Lasting reconciliation can only be achieved through a treaty, protected in Section 35 of the Constitution. As the Supreme Court has reminded us, Section 35 represents the promise of rights recognition. This promise is realized and the competing claims of the parties are recognized through the process of honourable negotiations. From the First Nation leaders, we are asking for the same commitment as from the other governments. It is no less challenging for First Nation leaders to maintain a sense of urgency when faced with a long process and delays. There are difficult choices to be made on mandates given the need to improve the quality of life in our communities and escape the limitations of the Indian Act. There are pressing business, development and territorial issues to deal with on a daily basis. There is the growing burden of debt to consider. The Treaty Commission will continue to be focused on the catalysts to move treaty negotiations forward — the potential economic benefits, interim measures to provide benefits now, resolution of territorial issues among First Nations and capacity building to help prepare for governance under a treaty."

The First Nations Summit, the political body representing First Nations who are in the BC treaty process, remains in the Missing Women Inquiry process, despite serious concerns about it being flawed and unfair. These are quotes from the First Nations Summit Statement delivered today October 12, 2011 to the BC Missing Women Commission of Inquiry in Vancouver. "The provincial government and police refused for years to acknowledge that women were going missing or being murdered at an alarming rate; then, when the numbers were irrefutable, they refused to acknowledge that a serial killer may be operating; then, once a serial killer was found, they refused to launch an independent Inquiry into the botched investigation; then, when they finally relented and announced the Missing Women Commission of Inquiry, they refused to allow key organizations input into the design of the Inquiry, which ultimately resulted in unduly narrow terms of reference; then, once the process was underway and a ruling on participant standing made, the Province refused funding despite the Commission’s finding that each of the organizations would provide valuable information and insight to ensure that the Inquiry is thorough, meaningful and fair." - "Chiefs and leaders at the recent First Nations Summit Chiefs meeting discussed their involvement in this Inquiry and came to the conclusion that, for now, we need to remain in this process. There is a real fear by our leaders that the Inquiry, its findings, its report and recommendations will be incomplete, unfair, and irrelevant and will not be implemented by the Province. We will report to our Chiefs and leaders in November for their review and decision whether or not to continue in this process. Like all the others who have withdrawn, we have no financial resources to be involved in any sustained way in this process. We hope the Province will once again take a look at this serious issue involving funding for Participants and consider appropriate levels of financial resources for full and effective participation." - "We want to be absolutely crystal clear that we are not here thinking that there are no questions about the Inquiry’s credibility. We are here however, because this process, we believe, is about the missing and murdered women and their families and the many questions which they have. While we feel we can contribute to the Inquiry’s process and ultimately its report we know it is not about our organizations. However, regardless of what the process is or is not, the First Nations Summit’s participation is to unequivocally support the need for justice for the victims and their families." - "We want and expect this Inquiry to scrutinize what we see as systemic intolerance towards Aboriginal peoples and advocate for a new reality where Aboriginal peoples are important and significant partners in this province and country; where Aboriginal peoples can feel safe and secure knowing that those agencies set up to protect them will do so."

At the BC Missing Women Commission of Inquiry, Cameron Ward the lawyer representing 18 families of the victims of serial killer Robert Pickton, made his opening statement Tuesday saying there is a lot at stake in the process, "The families of the missing women have decided to participate and put some faith in the process, even though they are very disappointed that the other groups who could have helped out have withdrawn. They considered withdrawing as well, but considered they are in a unique and different position; if they are to find out exactly what happened in the past and have their lingering questions answered, this is the only viable forum that can give them that opportunity."

October 11, 2011 - The controversial and unravelling BC Missing Women Inquiry officially opens today. However, it opens under clouds of conflict. Calling the Commission of Inquiry a "disgrace", and an "insult to women in the Downtown Eastside", protestors from the Coalition of the Downtown Eastside Women's Centre (DEWC) and the Feb 14th Women's Memorial March Committee (WMMC) are staging a rally and protest at the beginning of the hearings on West Georgia Street in Vancouver. They denounced the Inquiry as a "sham" and are calling for a new "fair, just, and inclusive" Inquiry that centres on "the voices and experiences and leadership of women, particularly Indigenous women", in the Downtown Eastside (DTES). Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo announced today the AFN will "regrettably" withdraw from the British Columbia Missing Women's Commission of Inquiry, citing limitations of the Inquiry itself and an imbalance and inequity in legal resources made available to the parties. "The Assembly of First Nations is no longer confident the Inquiry will bring justice for the families of missing and murdered women in Canada," said the National Chief, adding that the national First Nation advocacy organization has exhausted every option and appealed for cooperation and conciliation between the parties to better ensure a united and common purpose in finding truth and answers for the families. "The principle objectives behind AFN's participation from the beginning have been to support the families, to bring to light systemic issues that gave rise to these tragedies and finally to identify efforts toward resolution of those issues," said Atleo. "We hoped the Inquiry would shed light to uncover truths that could help with the healing process for the families as well as to begin to point the way forward so that all women and the most vulnerable have access to justice. Without equity and balance, systemic issues will not be brought forward and will therefore not be reflected in the recommendations of the Inquiry." In a joint letter with other parties to the Inquiry, the AFN appealed to the British Columbia Premier as recently as September 28th, as a last effort requesting a meeting of all parties to salvage a way forward. The B.C. Attorney General sent an unequivocal response indicating that such a meeting would not be convened. A news release explained that the AFN continues to urge the Government of British Columbia and the Commission of Inquiry to find remedy and ensure that justice is served. "The families of the many murdered and missing women fought for this Inquiry as an essential vehicle to uncover the truth behind their personal tragedies," said Jody Wilson-Raybould, AFN Regional Chief for British Columbia. "The current uneven configuration of the Inquiry seriously limits if not eliminates the potential of the Inquiry to achieve this most basic interest." The AFN said ending violence against Indigenous women is a key priority and First Nations across Canada consider the reality of missing and murdered Indigenous a national tragedy that requires immediate attention by all levels of government. First Nation Chiefs across Canada are working to raise awareness of this issue and have passed a number of resolutions supporting action to ensure the safety of Indigenous women across Canada and support for the families of missing and murdered Indigenous women. "The AFN will continue to press for justice and will re-double our efforts to bring focus, attention and most importantly action to this issue," said National Chief Atleo. "We will press for action and commitment from all levels of government. First Nations resolved by consensus to press for a national level inquiry and we will continue this struggle for justice through other avenues including through international and multi-jurisdictional forums within Canada."

October 10, 2011 - Perhaps, the newly elected minority government in Ontario will provide First Nations with a new opportunity to level the political playing field. Perhaps Premier Dalton McGuinty will see the need to enthusiastically embrace First Nations support, now that his Liberal government holds minority and not majority provincial political power. Perhaps partnership sparked by this new political scenario, will light a fire for further First Nations fervour by McGuinty, and spawn the adoption of a more favourable approach to Ontario-First Nations relations. "There must be a clear plan in place on how the Ontario government is going to engage First Nations as an equal partner on areas of infrastructure; energy, transportation and communications as well as the economic spin-offs from the major resource development opportunities within our traditional territories," said Nishnawbe Aski Nation Grand Chief Stan Beardy. "Although First Nation priorities have not received a great deal of attention by the federal or provincial governments in the past, I am hopeful that Premier McGuinty will change that," stated Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Patrick Madahbee, within hours of the Ontario voters handing victory to the Liberals. AFN Regional Chief Angus Toulouse offered his congratulations to the Premier, while pointing out that throughout the election, the Chiefs of Ontario encouraged all parties and the electorate of the importance of addressing the root causes and long-standing challenges faced by First Nations. However, minimal attention was paid to First Nations priorities during the campaign. "On behalf of the Anishinabek Nation I wish to extend my congratulations out to Premier Dalton McGuinty and his re-election," said Grand Council Chief Madahbee reminding the provincial premier of First Nations issues and priorities. "We hope to see a continued effort on Ontario's part to implement the recommendations of the Ipperwash Inquiry Report. . . The Anishinabek Nation has many areas that require immediate attention and some that are more long-term. Education, health and child welfare are longstanding issues where First Nations have legitimate concerns for their citizens in the present and into the future. Economic development is key to helping our First Nation communities in becoming self-sustaining. Moreover, resource revenue sharing is a complex issue that requires committed partners. I remain hopeful that Ontario will work with us to find common ground on First Nation priorities. I look forward to our continued work the Liberal Government on the challenges that face our citizens," said the Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief. First Nations in Ontario are expecting the relationship building with the Government of Ontario to continue according to Regional Chief Toulouse, who said First Nations leaders in Ontario expect the appointment of a dedicated Minister of Aboriginal Affairs as an essential requirement to continue building upon efforts to address priority issues including treaty implementation, community health and wellness, education, and clean water. "Education must remain a priority - empowering First Nations young people with culturally appropriate and academically solid education unlocks an economic potential for all of Ontario by securing a stable and productive work force. We appreciate the Premier's fervour to address the education gap that exists between First Nations and their mainstream counterparts but above all - we support First Nations in their inherent right to construct education systems that transmit culture, language and values. This respect must form the fundamental basis of finding the workable path forward to address the education gap," stated Regional Chief Toulouse. In 2006 Premier McGuinty prioritized First Nations education and committed to the creation of a First Nations centre of education excellence and curriculum development. More recently, Premier McGuinty committed to approaching the federal government to address First Nations education as a priority on the basis of all parties working together. "There is a widespread and fundamental lack of understanding about our shared history and the original treaty relationships the settler governments have with First Nations and some of that is reflected in Ontario's principal policy document called 'Ontario's New Approach to Aboriginal Affairs.' We need to establish a common understanding and the Government of Ontario needs to be guided by modern policy taking into account legal developments in Canada including the adoption of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples," added Regional Chief Toulouse.

Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) Grand Chief Stan Beardy congratulated Premier Dalton McGuinty and promised to continue to strive for a positive working relationship with the government of Ontario. "NAN is mandated to work with all political parties and all levels and therefore we will continue to push for meaningful dialogue with the elected officials of Ontario," said the NAN Grand Chief. A news release explained that NAN's expectations of the Liberal minority government are to uphold free, prior and informed consent as a requirement of any proposed private development or Canadian government policy that affects any part of the NAN territory as stated in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. NAN will continue to demand that jurisdictional and treaty rights be honoured and acknowledges that there are major fundamental difficulties with the Far North Act which was unanimously opposed by NAN Chiefs. "The overall objective is to create certainty for investment in the north and maintain economic prosperity and this can only happen with strong meaningful participation of NAN First Nations."

October 7th, 2011 - Dalton McGuinty's Liberals secured a third straight mandate, but fell short of a third straight majority Ontario government. The Liberals won 53 ridings, one short of the 54 needed for a majority. The Liberals captured 37.6 per cent of the popular vote - the Progressive Conservatives as official Opposition close behind with 35.4 per cent - NDP 22.7 per cent.

Dene National Chief Bill Erasmus and other representatives from the Dene Nation, will hand-deliver The Mother Earth Accord, a solidarity document, to representatives of the U.S. government in Washington today where Assembly of First Nations Regional Chiefs are attending the Keystone Pipeline hearings. "Development on First Nation territory must include full consultation with our peoples, as this is our constitutionally protected right based on our relationship with the Crown and under the Treaties," said Dene National Chief and AFN Regional Chief for Northwest Territories Bill Erasmus. He has met with senior officials in the Obama administration together with other First Nation leaders a number of times, regarding First Nation concerns with the project. "The Keystone pipeline project must be reconsidered in a way that protects First Nation rights and responsibilities," said AFN Alberta Regional Chief George Stanley. "As stewards of the land, it is our responsibility to ensure Mother Earth is protected for our future generations." Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo expressed his support for First Nations advancing a basic standard of free, prior and informed consent prior to development on First Nation territories. "We support the efforts of Indigenous rights holders, including First Nations and Tribal Governments, impacted by TransCanada's proposed Keystone XL tar sands pipeline development." The US government is expected to make a final decision on the Keystone XL pipeline by early November.

October 6th, 2011 - The "Broken Commission process" takes another blow in BC. Two of Canada's leading human rights organizations,the B.C. Civil Liberties Association (BCCLA) and Amnesty International Canada, have joined the growing number of groups refusing to take part in the BC Missing Women Commission of inquiry public hearings."We deeply regret not being able to participate, as we are aware that families who have lost sisters, daughters and mothers in the Downtown Eastside continue to struggle for answers and justice," said Alex Neve, Secretary General for Amnesty International Canada. "But we could not allow our continued presence to be seen as supportive of a process that has gone so far off track. We will continue to speak as part of a broader movement of Canadians demanding full respect for the rights of all women. At this point, we have no choice but to do so from outside the Inquiry." BCCLA's Robert Holmes, Q.C. accused the BC government of lavishing all its resources on one side – that of the police and bureaucrats. "The government has failed to show it understands that 'truth and reconciliation' requires respect for and participation by all interested parties." Neve stated: "At its very heart this Commission of Inquiry is grappling with critical concerns about access to justice and human rights protection for some of the most marginalized communities in the province. . .But it is going forward in a manner that only adds to that longstanding sense of exclusion and discrimination". Amnesty International Canada and the BCCLA were among 21 of 22 participating non-government organizations who asked the Premier to intervene to fix the broken Commission process. No response to the letter was received by the set deadline. Holmes noted: "Now with the Downtown Eastside Women's Centre and the Women's Memorial March Committee announcing this week that they can't participate, we are going to dedicate our efforts to processes where calls for respect and voices of concern can be heard."

October 5th, 2011 - 10 Canadians take their own lives daily - a per capita rate three times that of the United States, "largely due to the staggering number of suicides among aboriginal Canadians," said Liberal leader Bob Rae, among the Members of Parliament who this week called for a national suicide strategy. He presented an Opposition motion in the House of Commons: "That the House agree that suicide is more than a personal tragedy, but is also a serious public health issue and public policy priority; and, further, that the House urge the government to work cooperatively with the provinces, territories, representative organizations from First Nations, Inuit, and Metis people, and other stakeholders to establish and fund a National Suicide Prevention Strategy, which among other measures would promote a comprehensive and evidence-driven approach to deal with this terrible loss of life." Today, Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo commended all Parties for making suicide prevention a national priority. In the House of Commons Tuesday, all political parties supported a National Suicide Prevention Strategy that would "promote a comprehensive and evidence-driven approach". AFN National Chief Atleo stated, "On behalf of all First Nations, I commend all Parliamentarians for coming together to support the calls for a national suicide prevention strategy and approaching the tragic issue of suicide collectively. . .First Nations across Canada are focused on ensuring the health and safety of our people and communities, particularly our youth. We've expressed many times that suicide among our people requires urgent attention from all of us. Atleo added that suicide rates among First Nations are five to seven times higher than among other Canadians. "Today I continue these calls and advocate for support for locally-driven suicide prevention plans. I urge the Government of Canada and all Canadians to work with First Nations on preventative approaches and tools that work for our people." Last month, the National Chief called on all levels of government to work with First Nations to implement key recommendations of a report by the Ontario Chief Coroner regarding youth suicides in Pikangikum First Nation. The report included a total of 100 recommendations in the areas of education, policing, child welfare and health care, with a particular focus on the development of suicide prevention strategies. As he introduced his motion in the House of Commons Tuesday, Liberal Bob Rae said: "Our understanding of what we in Canada face has to include the fact that there are a great many Canadians who today are in turmoil. Today, this day, as many as 10 people will take their own lives. We could all through a bit of imagination think about who those people are. I think of a young girl living on a native reserve. Perhaps she has been abused as a child. Perhaps she is living in a house where there are as many as 10, 12 or 15 people sharing a room. She goes to school and on the computer at school she sees a very different world. She sees a world of wealth. She sees a world of opportunity. She sees a world of affluence. She looks around her community and she sees the opposite. She asks herself, "Where is the hope? What hope do I have?".

Please help us find her and bring her home to her son and family. That's the message from Chief Tom Nelson about a woman missing since May 2011. 28 year old Angeline Eileen Pete, a young Gusgimukw woman, from Quatsino Village close to Port Hardy, was last seen in North Vancouver. Description: First Nations, height 163cm (5'4") - weight 68kg (150lbs), long dark hair (known to occasionally dye it) brown eyes (she wears contacts). If anyone has any information regarding the whereabouts of Angeline Eileen Pete they are requested to contact: Quatsino Band 250-949-6245 and ask for Cary-lee Calder (her Aunt) or Eileen Nelson (her grandma) 250-949-7572. Gilakasla (Thank You) Chief Tom Nelson.

October 4, 2011 - Native Women's Association of Canada Joint Statement read nationwide as part of Sisters In Spirit Vigils-A Movement for Social Change. Each year on October 4th communities across Canada come together to honour the lives of missing and murdered Aboriginal women and girls. As we do so, we remember the lives of sisters, daughters, mothers and grandmothers tragically taken from us. Today, we offer our support and sympathy to their families and we join with them in demanding justice. Statistics consistently show that Aboriginal women face much higher levels of violence than all other women in Canada. The Native Women's Association of Canada has documented more than 600 cases of Aboriginal women and girls who have been murdered or who remain missing. This violence has touched the lives of almost every First Nations, Inuit and Métis family and community. And it has moved Canadians from all walks of life to demand action. Violence against Aboriginal women is a national issue, one that must concern us all. There can be no piecemeal solution to a tragedy of this scale. We are calling for all levels of government to work with Aboriginal women and representative organizations to establish a comprehensive, national plan of action to stop violence against women. Such a plan of action must: Ensure Indigenous women's access to justice, including effective and unbiased police response to all cases of missing and murdered women and new investigations of cases where police misconduct has occurred; Improve public awareness and accountability through the consistent collection and publication of comprehensive national statistics on rates of violent crime against Indigenous women; Provide adequate, stable funding to the frontline organizations that provide culturally appropriate services such as shelter, support and counseling for Indigenous women and girls and their communities; Address the root causes of violence against Indigenous women, including by closing the economic gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people; Eliminate inequalities in the services available to Aboriginal children, in particular, through the child welfare system. Along with this call for action, we express our sincere thanks and gratitude to the families. Many are here today and we thank them for sharing their stories. You are the reason we continue to demand action. We are honoured to walk beside you on this journey! Moreover, we acknowledge that families must take the lead in this movement. Their stories need to be heard, and their initiatives supported. Relationships must be nurtured and further strengthened with other families, as well as with grassroots women and men, organizations, and Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities across Turtle Island. This Joint Statement is supported by:Amnesty International Canada Canadian Association of Elizabeth Fry Societies (CAEFS) Canadian Feminist Alliance for International Action (FAFIA) Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) Families of Sisters In Spirit (FSIS) KAIROS: Canadian Ecumenical Justice Initiatives Minwaashin Lodge Native Women's Association of Canada (NWAC) National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE)Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) Prostitutes of Ottawa/Gatineau Area: Work, Educate and Resists (POWER) Project of Heart.

Provincial and Aboriginal leaders honoured 20 Aboriginal youth for successfully completing the 2010-11 B.C. Aboriginal Youth Internship Program. . .The Aboriginal youth interns have participated in a nine-month placement in a B.C. government ministry or agency, followed by a three-month placement in a selected B.C. Aboriginal organization. Through these placements, the interns have received professional experience and development, as well as mentorship, support and guidance for their education and career paths. This year interns worked on: The development of an injury prevention program for Aboriginal elders at the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development. A youth engagement strategy at the Ministry of Children and Family Development. Policy development at the B.C. Assembly of First Nations. Since the program began in 2007, 86 Aboriginal youth have completed the 12-month program that is designed to increase their "leadership capacity, education and career opportunities". Interns who have completed the program have gone on to successful careers with Aboriginal and provincial governments and agencies, including positions with the B.C. Treaty Commission, the Squamish Nation and the New Relationship Trust.

A First Nations renewable power project (a biomass project - using renewable organic material to generate energy) is moving forward at Meadow Lake. The First Nations Power Authority (FNPA), the Government of Saskatchewan, and SaskPower are working with the Meadow Lake Tribal Council (MLTC) to develop a renewable power generation project in northern Saskatchewan. "The Meadow Lake Bioenergy Center is a very significant milestone for the business development vision of Meadow Lake Tribal Council," said Tribal Chief Eric Sylvestre. "We are excited about the economic opportunities this project will provide for our partnerships and our communities, and it builds upon more than 20 years of successful business management. We are proud to be leading a major project in partnership with FNPA and SaskPower." The project, will use wood byproducts from the NorSask Forest Products mill near Meadow Lake to generate up to 36 megawatts (MW) of renewable, low-emissions power for the province of Saskatchewan. In addition to adding more renewable electricity to the provinces power system, the baseload generation project will create about 300 new jobs in the Meadow Lake region, including 25 permanent jobs at the facility. SaskPower and MLTC have signed a letter of intent and are now working on mutually agreeable terms for a 25-year power purchase agreement, which is expected to be completed by the end of this year. The project is scheduled to be in service in early 2014. (Established this spring, FNPA is a non-profit, membership-based corporation, which sets out a partnership framework for a more streamlined process to help First Nations move their generation projects forward. Each of the 74 Saskatchewan First Nations is eligible to hold membership.)

October 2, 2011 - Moving unflinchingly forward with his education agenda, the National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations says attacks during the summer against the National Panel on First Nation Elementary and Secondary Education, have served to improve the process. In response to a question by Turtle Island Native Network about the criticism, Shawn Atleo stated: "I certainly don't receive it as anything personal". I posed the question to the AFN leader during an issues briefing with Aboriginal media last Friday. "I've been really thankful for the openness . . .To hear from the grass roots is a very powerful opportunity". Affirming his resolve to see the work of the education panel continue, Atleo said of the critical feedback from First Nations leaders, "I am encouraged by the passion, commitment and focus on education as a priority". He also acknowledged the need to work on communications regarding the national panel process, "so that all views and perspectives are not only heard, but understood and respected." He spent a lot of time last month meeting with First Nations leaders from various areas of the country, including those with the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations who were among the most publicly and highly critical, of the arrangement between the AFN and Canada regarding the process to create education reform. The National Chief said he is supportive of the leaders who have emphasized the "treaty right to education" and the need to ensure education reform is "treaty-based". As well, he characterised the leadership's concerns as "pushing back", at the unacceptable federal government pre-conditions. "It truly must be a joint effort . . . that's what the Prime Minister (when we spoke) that's what he agreed with, that this panel would have the responsibility not to be the expert of us all . . . but to listen." The panel is meeting not only with First Nations leaders, but with First Nations education experts - including students, and parents. The National Chief said his job "is to open up the door, create the space for the nation-to-nation discussions to occur". A report from the education panel will be completed this winter and "go back to First Nations and separately to Minister Duncan . . .I want to make this sharp distinction." This is significant, because First Nations leaders are still stinging from the federal government's action following the experts panel on water. First Nations participated in that initiative in good faith, but that panel's report went only to the federal government. "They unilaterally designed a piece of legislation that we find ourselves on our heels again, fighting back against," explained the National Chief. "The commitment the Prime Minister made to me, and this is what I've been sharing with chiefs and leaders, especially most directly in the last little while - is that it's intended to create the opportunity that when that report comes back, we then determine together how and if we will proceed, what kind of solutions to achieve the right to education and equity and fairness for our children," Atleo added. He said First Nations leaders will have a chance to reflect on the education panel's interim report at the Special Chiefs Assembly in December. (Following regional engagements now underway and a national roundtable in November, the Panel will deliver its report to the National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations and the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada by December 31, 2011. MORE: http://firstnationeducation.ca/home/ )

October 1, 2011 - A funding agreement which guarantees predictable, stable and equitable financial resources remains the biggest hurdle to delivering a quality education system for First Nations students in British Columbia, First Nations leaders and educators told the National Panel on First Nation Elementary and Secondary Education this week. Language and cultural programming, as well as academic curriculum, were repeatedly cited as fundamental to building the confidence and identity for students to succeed in Canada's K-12 education system and beyond. Internet connectivity and access to other technologies were also identified as key to delivering quality education to First Nations students, many of whom live in remote communities. The Panel held roundtables in Vancouver and Terrace, toured several First Nations schools, met with the Vancouver Board of Trade and sought guidance and advice from a wide variety of people, including First Nations students, educators, parents and elders. The input given to the Panel will be used to form a series of recommendations to the Assembly of First Nations and the Government of Canada on ways to rapidly and urgently improve academic achievement and high school graduation rates for First Nations students. "As acknowledged by Canada's Auditor General, we have the structures and accountability mechanisms in place in B.C. to give our students the quality of education they deserve," said Deborah Jeffrey, Acting Executive Director of B.C.'s First Nations Education Steering Committee (FNESC) and member of the Tsimshian Nation. "It makes no sense - economically, ethically or morally - - to continue to deny our children and youth equitable funding to make this possible, including funding for language, culture and technology," she stressed. "The quality of First Nations education is improving, but not fast enough. I hope the Panel comes away with an understanding that First Nations educators have a strong vision for a successful First Nations education system," said Darrell Schann, a grade 9 - 12 teacher from Stz'uminus who participated in the Vancouver roundtable. "Throughout these discussions, I have seen the path to successful education in First Nation schools. Do we have the courage to make it a reality?" he continued. Participants in the discussions also emphasized that education for First Nations students must be led and delivered at the community level, and ensuring parents and elders are heavily engaged with their children’s learning and school work is also extremely important. Teacher recruitment and retention, leadership from school principals and teachers, and resources to support educators’ ongoing professional development were also identified as key to increasing academic success among First Nations students. "Closing the gap between educational achievement for youth in mainstream society and First Nations' youth is the single biggest shot in the arm we can give Canada's economy where demand for skilled and knowledge-based workers is likely to remain greater than our ability to produce them," said Panel Chair Scott Haldane. "Every child, regardless of where they live in our prosperous country, deserves a quality school and a quality education," he said. "Fortunately, the ability to greatly improve the odds of educational success for First Nations youth is absolutely within our grasp, and taking action now is a win-win situation for First Nations and every Canadian." "The Panel is wholly committed to listening to First Nations communities and using their valuable insight to develop a meaningful blueprint for action to achieve this national priority for the current generation of children in school today," Haldane concluded. First Nations youth represent the fastest growing demographic group in Canada. More than half of First Nations peoples are under age 25 and 350,000 are under 14. Only half of First Nations youth graduate from high school, compared to more than 80 per cent of other Canadian children, and only eight percent of First Nations have a university degree.

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