Turtle Island Native Network News Briefs July 2004

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Turtle Island Native Network News Briefs July 2004

News and Comment
by Tehaliwaskenhas
Bob Kennedy,Oneida
Copyright
Turtle Island Native Network
http://www.turtleisland.org

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July 31, 2004 - The Pasqua First Nation is working with the investigation team assigned to the disappearance of five year-old Tamra Keepness in Regina. A coordinated search launched by police on Friday, continued today on the First Nations reserve land in the area of Echo Valley Provincial Park in the Fort Qu’Appelle district. The decision to search was prompted by a tip the police received from local residents who reported strangers there the day after Tamra disappeared. For the second straight day, the Fort Qu’Appelle search involved members of the Regina Police Service, a canine unit, the RCMP and several dozen trained First Nation community searchers who have been involved in the FSIN/FHQ-led search effort, in cooperation with the Pasqua First Nation.

Fog rolling in over the waters of the Strait of Juan De Fuca added to the challenge for Native canoeists headed toward the south shore of Vancouver Island. Turtle Island Native Network has learned that there was a, -near miss- . . . that a canoe narrowly missed being seriously damaged by a freighter on Thursday. On Friday, the scene was a sea of canoes, on the sea . . . a picture-perfect part of a Pacific Northwest tradition. More than two dozen tribal canoes set out from the Songhees First Nation on Vancouver Island, as this summers Tribal Journey continued toward next weeks arrival, up island at Chemainus. The leader of the Songhees First Nation was there to see his nations canoe move out, carrying 8 young paddlers, among the dozens participating in what Chief Robert Sam calls, - -a healing journey- -. In an interview with Turtle Island Native Network, Chief Sam said the annual journey is a chance for Tribal nations from the U.S. and First Nations in British Columbia, - -to network- -. But the biggest benefit is for the young people who are on a personal healing journey, - -healing from abusive relationships, or substance abuse- -. The canoe journey helps them heal as they participate in a cultural activity, and to, - -get out of the cycle of abuse- -. Chief Sam says it gives them focus and something to talk about, - -. . . if they complete the journey it is quite an achievement- -. It is possible that as many as a hundred canoes will be there for the Chemainus gathering on August 5th.

Aboriginal people across Canada make greater use of the health care system. But despite the fact their demand on the system is greater, they receive substandard services. Provincial and territorial leaders emerged from their meeting in Niagara On The Lake, Ontario with consensus on an action plan to reform health care in Canada. Included, is an agreement to work with national Aboriginal organizations, to ensure the same level of health care - the same quality of health care for Aboriginals as other Canadians receive. The Premiers and Territory leaders want the federal government to take over a national pharmacare program. It means greater federal funding. The Premiers and Territorial leaders proposed that Aboriginal leaders be invited to a special meeting in September with health ministers. As for the commitment to improve health care for Aboriginals, it follows a briefing earlier in the week from the national Aboriginal leadership. That included a call from the Metis National Council for an end to discrimination when it comes to delivering adequate services to Metis. The Congress of Aboriginal Peoples drew attention to the growing health care needs of the urban Aboriginal population, and that focus should be directed to them as well as the on-reserve First Nation people. Phil Fontaine, National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations made it clear that a gap exists in the level and quality of health care First Nations people receive across Canada. He cited the example of four remote First Nation communities in Northern Manitoba, - -Every mother has to be flown to Winnipeg- -, because medical care is not available at home. Fontaine said there needs to be improvements in health care for people in the north, - -services people in the south take for granted--.

July 30, 2004 - Aboriginal veteran receives recognition! 31 years after his passing, the Canadian Navy honoured Leading Seaman, Ned Memnook, of Saddle Lake First Nation. A unique ceremony, full of First Nations tradition and military protocols, was held in the Wardroom at CFB Esquimalt. Rear-Admiral Jean-Yves Forcier hosted the event to present three medals to Mrs. Frances Memnook, being honoured by the Canadian Forces with the Memorial Cross in recognition of her husband. Ned Memnook passed away with a sudden illness while deployed on a peacekeeping mission in support of the Vietnam war in 1973. The Special Service Medal /with peace bar, and the Canadian Peacekeeping Service Medal were awarded posthumously to LS Memnook. At the ceremony on Thursday, Chief Andy Thomas of the Esquimalt First Nation, welcomed members of the Memnook family, friends, and the more than 60 people who had gathered to show their respect. His words included gratitude for the event that was long overdue, but also mindful of the distance First Nations people must still travel to regain their rights, and recognition. He reminded the audience that most First Nations people in Canada, continue to be dictated by the Indian Act, and that means they are wards of the Crown. Chief Thomas statements did not fall on deaf ears. First Nations people there, easily identified. As well, those listening included Dr Keith Martin, recently appointed to Prime Minister Paul Martins Cabinet as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence. Also there . . . members of the Vancouver Island National Aboriginal Veterans Association, the Canadian UN Peacekeepers Veterans association, retired Navy Captain Larry Dzioba - the Commanding Officer of HMCS TERRA NOVA at the time of L.S. Memnooks death, members of the Defence Aboriginal Advisory Group and other senior military officials. Mrs. Memnook was supported by her daughter Carolyn, son Conrad, sister Rita, brother John Christopher, and grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Guests of honour also included LS Memnooks sister, Shirley Memnook, cousin Lina Cardinal and her niece Nancy Cardinal, who came from Saddle Lake and Cold Lake First Nations in Alberta. 31 years passed before Ned Memnook was honoured for his military service. The combined efforts of Aboriginal veterans assisting the Canadian Forces to address the backlog in the system, and locating family ties, lead to this weeks ceremony.

July 29, 2004 - With legal challenges, and a barrage of salty-tongued words from non-aboriginal fishermen as a backdrop, this week First Nations in the lower Fraser River got the green light from DFO for the salmon fishery, including commercial fishing. Interim economic fishing arrangements were worked out during intensive negotiations between the federal officials and Sto lo Nation, Musqueam and Tsawwassen First Nation representatives. The new arrangement moves away from the controversial --pilot sales program--. The latest deals are specifically --interim-- for First Nations economic fisheries, because says DFO - -. . . in order to facilitate an orderly transition both to Treaties and a more integrated commercial fishery- -. That is based on recommendations contained in the Report of The Joint Task Group on Post-Treaty Fisheries. In the lower Fraser River, Musqueam, Tsawwassen and Sto:lo First Nations will have economic fishing /commercial opportunities to harvest Fraser River sockeye, as well as salmon harvested for food, social and ceremonial purposes. Arrangements include a transfer of 50 per cent of the food, social and ceremonial allocation to a First Nations commercial fishery. There is no increase in the overall catch allocation for First Nations and no decrease in catch allocation for other fisheries. In a news release the DFO explained, - -To ensure that the lower Fraser River First Nations’ economic fishing opportunities meet conservation objectives, provisions have been included in the fishing arrangements such as catch monitoring, mandatory landing stations, as well as for the designation of all fishers participating in the opportunities.- - Most of the commercial fisheries will be carried out at separate times from the First Nations fisheries for food, social and ceremonial purposes - those fisheries do not include a sales component. Meanwhile, First Nations commercial fishing this fall for chum salmon in the lower Fraser River and Goldstream River are in the preliminary stages of discussion. Negotiations of interim arrangements for First Nations commercial salmon fisheries began after the July 12, 2004 BC Supreme Court appeal decision in R. vs. Kapp. It said the Aboriginal fishery did not discriminate against non-aboriginals, but it was a flawed government program. Aboriginal leaders have argued for years that their communities have a right to more than fishing for ceremonial purposes. The fish trade is a traditional part of the culture on Canadas west coast, dating back thousands upon thousands of years.

The Metis National Council, the Assembly of First Nations and Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami asked the Premier and Territory leaders to support their full Aboriginal participation in the next First Ministers Meeting on Health scheduled for September 2004. One of the strongest messages delivered, was from the Metis National Council - MNC. Clem Chartier, MNC president, called on the Premiers to end health care discrimination against the Metis people. - -Unfortunately, even though illness and diseases do not discriminate between the three constitutionally recognized Aboriginal peoples, Canada and the provinces current health policies and approaches do when it comes to the Metis Nation. I call on the premiers and territorial leaders to support us in ending health care discrimination against the Metis Nation.- - Chartier pointed out that the Metis account for close to 26 percent of the Aboriginal population in Canada, but they receive minimal access to federal Aboriginal health supports or services. - -Metis people continue to encounter difficulties accessing provincial primary health case services and pan-Aboriginal models which fail to meet the unique needs of the Metis people. As a result, our people fall further behind average Canadians in many areas and behind other Aboriginal peoples in some health care indicators. I am calling upon the Premiers to work collaboratively with the Metis Nation to ensure the federal government lives up to its obligations and commitments to the Metis Nation in any new Health Accord.- - Chartier presented the Premiers with a four point action plan to deal with Metis concerns in the current Aboriginal health care crisis. 1.building upon best practices in Metis health care - 2.developing a health career strategy for Metis people - 3.exploring new models to address jurisdictional barriers and, - 4.supporting Metis participation in developing health policy.

First Nations with concerns about off-shore oil and gas in British Columbia, will have more time to explain those concerns to the governments. Discussion about the federal moratorium on offshore oil and gas activities will continue until early September and according to Natural Resources Canada, the extension of the First Nations engagement process - -. . . will allow broader discussions with more First Nations communities in the Queen Charlotte area- -. Cheryl Brooks, a Sto lo Nation member, a skilled facilitator with extensive experience working with Aboriginal organizations and the public and private sectors, is leading the First Nations engagement. We already know First Nations have major concerns. A study commissioned by Coastal First Nations, by a team of nine researchers from Simon Fraser University ,concluded that there are major risks associated with offshore oil and gas development in B.C. The study found that a modest size offshore oil and gas development in B.C. could result in 484 small oils spills and a one in five chance of a large oil spill over the 25 year project operation. The study also concluded that the number of direct jobs created by a modest size offshore oil and gas industry in B.C. would be less than 200. The study was the first to integrate the environmental, social, economic, legal and regulatory issues associated with offshore development. Previous science reports completed by the federal and provincial governments only examined environmental and technological issues.

July 28, 2004 - Dozens of tribal canoes are on the waters of the Pacific Northwest for what has become an annual summertime healing, cultural and fun-time event . . .Tribal Journeys have attracted a huge following in the NW United States and throughout British Columbia. This week, TSou-ke Nation on Vancouver Island provided a good example of the community interest, as members and their friends gathered to greet the paddlers from Ditidaht First Nation. They were welcomed in traditional fashion and brought to shore by local paddlers, the visiting team drummed and sang to illustrate their gratitude, then they were treated to a potluck supper . . . a ten course meal as one of the Ditidaht paddlers declared. Then they were provided with a good night of rest, and then set off with the Tsouke Nation paddlers close behind, on their way to the Juan De Fuca Strait, and the eventual arrival at Chemainus this coming weekend. Dozens of canoes will arrive there from Washington State Tribes and BC First Nations.

This week in northern Ontario, Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug - Big Trout Lake First Nation members started a canoeing journey to Fort Severn. Approximately 30 people, 15 canoes are involved in this annual event. The trip takes about ten to fifteen days, starting off in Big Trout Lake via Fawn River linking to the Severn River and eventually ending up in the community of Fort Severn on the Hudsons Bay Coastline.

July 27, 2004 - As leaders of the First Nations, Inuit and Metis prepare to discuss the health care crisis with provincial and territorial leaders, the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples CAP expressed outrage at not being invited to participate. In an open letter to Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty, CAP vice-chief Patrick Brazeau pointed out that diabetes, HIV/AIDS and other horrible diseases afflicting Aboriginal people, are not confined to Indian Act reserve communities. CAP accused the premiers and territorial leaders of - -ignoring the critical health care needs- - of the 800,000 urban Aboriginals. The fact that only the three Aboriginal groups were invited, was reported here and elsewhere, late last week. In his letter to premier McGuinty, Patrick Brazeau of CAP wrote that he only learned today, /Tuesday July 27th/ of the decision to meet with the Aboriginal leaders.

The Regina Police Service reported another Aboriginal child is missing in the city. Eleven year old Sheldon Blacksioux is described as, about 4feet 10inches tall, weighing 100 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. He was last seen leaving his residence on Haynee Street in the Glencairn neighbourhood, at about 12:15 p.m. on Friday, July 23, 2004. When last seen, Sheldon was wearing jean shorts, a red tank top and black Nike runners. Since Friday, investigators have had reports that Bthe boy has been seen in Regina but, he has not returned to his residence, nor has he had contact with family members. Anyone who has information as to the whereabouts of Sheldon Blacksioux, is asked to contact the Regina Police Service at 306-777-6500 or call Crime Stoppers 545-TIPS /306-545-8477/.

A search by First Nations volunteers continues, and Aboriginal and non-aboriginal community members have held vigils for 5 year old Tamra Keepness who has been missing for almost a month from her home in Regina. Meanwhile, police recently issued an alert regarding someone canvassing for funds for the Tamra Keepness search. - -The Regina Police Service advises the public to exercise caution when dealing with door-to-door canvassers.- - This advisory comes after they received a report, of an adult male, who visited a home in the 2300 block of Winnipeg Street. He asked the resident to contribute money to the search for Tamra Keepness. The man is described as Caucasian, approximately 40 years old and well-dressed. The resident gave a small amount of money, but later notified police, thinking that it may not have been a legitimate fundraiser. Patrol members were advised, but no person matching the description was found. There have been no other reports of this type. Police advise the public to always exercise caution in dealing with any person requesting funds, especially if that person does not provide satisfactory identification.

A Trust Fund for Tamra Keepness was set up and is being administered by Regina Treaty/Status Indian Services Incorporated. If people wish to donate to Tamra KEEPNESS, they may wish to contact Regina Treaty/Status Indian Services Incorporated at 306-522-7494.

Five year-old Tamra Keepness has been missing from her Regina home in the 1800 block of Ottawa Street since sometime after 11:00 p.m. on Monday, July 5, 2004. Her disappearance has been the subject of an intensive search and investigation. The Regina Board of Police Commissioners has authorized a $25,000 reward for information leading to the whereabouts of Tamra.

Efforts to recruit more Aboriginal students, means Schools IN for Summer. Aboriginal high school students from across coastal British Columbia, are getting a taste of university life this summer at the first -aboriginal student mini-university summer camp- at the University of Victoria. The 29 students are from grades eight through 11. They are now living on campus and taking part in a variety of activities including a writing workshop with celebrated Sencoten /Saanich/ First Nation poet Kevin Paul, who teaches fiction at UVic. The high schools also will meet other Aboriginal faculty, and attend workshops on a range of subjects including robotics, computer animation, visual arts, and law. The week will culminate with a grad ceremony and traditional feast. Commenting on this innaugural summer camp, Bruno Rocca, University of Victoria manager of student recruitment said, - -We are trying to encourage more aboriginal youth to consider a broader range of careers. UVic is already training aboriginal students in education, child and youth care, law and indigenous governance, and now we also want to heighten the profile of the sciences, humanities and engineering. This camp is our effort to present options to aboriginal youth, show what UVic has to offer and highlight the careers that are possible with a university education.- -

July 26, 2004 - Turtle Island Native Network has learned the Sto lo Nation in the British Columbia Fraser Valley will see eighteen First Nations regaining their unique Aboriginal fishery rights this summer. This follows negotiations with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans to breath new life into the controversial west coast Native-only fishery program, that has raised reverse racism allegations from non-Aboriginal fishermen. They allege the Aboriginal fishery is based on race. However, First Nations point to their longstanding traditions - ten thousand years, says Ken Malloway, of the Sto:lo Nation fishery. As well as a significant court ruling in their favour. Recently the BC Supreme Court overturned a lower court ruling that had wrongly declared the Aboriginal Fishery policy of the Canadian government discriminatory. That triggered renewed optimism among First Nations and a demand that the government resurrect the Aboriginal fishery in BC. That has become real for Sto lo First Nations who have struck a deal with DFO involving Fraser River salmon. The non-Aboriginal Fisheries Survival Coalition plans to launch a legal appeal of the recent BC Supreme Court judgment that favoured First Nations interests. Word that the renewed Aboriginal Fishery is imminent, sparked a new barrage of more strong language from the coalition of disgruntled BC commercial fishermen.

July 25, 2004 - The fact that the health of Aboriginals is the worst in Canada, will be on the minds of Provincial and Territorial premiers, who have agreed to meet this week with Aboriginal leaders prior to their Council of the Federation conference on health care in Niagara on the Lake. The premiers will hear from the Assembly of First Nations, the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and the Metis National Council. This will likely include treaty rights and the outstanding jurisdictional issues between the federal and provincial governments with respect to fiscal and service responsibility for First Nations health and health care, - -particularly in light of provincial health care reform, Canadian public demands to save Medicare and the widening health status gap between First Nations and the general Canadian population- -. As well, the provision of fiscal resources to First Nations peoples is a key concern. The Assembly of First Nations is on record as calling for a national forum to clarify, - -the nature and scope of the Crowns fiduciary obligations for the provision of health care services to First Nations--. Aboriginal leaders want to ensure they have a voice at federal/provincial/territorial tables of health ministers. First Nation chiefs have said there is the imperative need for the federal government to recognize Aboriginal health as a - -fourth order- - of jurisdiction, following federal, provincial and territorial.

July 24, 2004 - Several dozen jobs, training, and millions of dollars in long-term revenue - Millbrook First Nation, a Mikmaq community in Nova Scotia, is a big winner as a result of the National Defence announcement to award the Maritime Helicopter Project /MHP/ to the Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation. Millbrook First Nation has an agreement with General Dynamics Canada, that is teamed with Sikorsky Aircraft. Millbrook will provide facilities and building management for a 17 year period. Chief Lawrence Paul is thrilled by the decision that will bring huge benefits to his people, and other Aboriginal and non-aboriginal people in the Shearwater, Nova Scotia area. Millbrook will build a facility for General Dynamics - an ultra high-tech, high-security building ... up to 30 high-tech jobs for aboriginal people and a total of 180 jobs for other Nova Scotians. General Dynamics Canada will assist Millbrook First Nation by supporting Aboriginal small business initiatives, and will also provide education and employment opportunities not only for Millbrook First Nation members, but also for all Aboriginal people in a wide variety of areas. The Membertou First Nation had a similar agreement with Lockheed Martin, but it was excluded from final bidding on the project.

Hopes of gaining further legal protection for their treaty rights, remain alive with the Mikisew Cree First Nation in Alberta. The Supreme Court of Canada said it will review whether Parks Canada violated Aboriginal treaty rights when it approved a plan to build a 118 kilometre road through Wood Buffalo National Park. While it is good news for the Mikisew Cree, it is disappointing for the Fort Smith Metis Council that had looked forward to more reasonable prices for goods shipped by the planned all-weather link to the Alberta highway system. The Mikisew Cree First Nation challenged the project in federal court and won, when it argued its hunting and trapping rights would be infringed by the road. Then the Federal Court of Appeal February overturned that judgment. Now the Supreme Court of Canada will take another look at the case. The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Association also opposed the winter road, arguing it would put increased pressure on moose, wood bison and other species in the park, the largest in Canada.


July 23, 2004 - Good news for First Nations students. Financial support is not going to be taxed afterall . . . at least not yet. National Chief Phil Fontaine of the Assembly of First Nations announced, - -I received a letter today from the Canada Customs and Revenue Agency. The Director General responsible has announced that the CRA has issued a moratorium on their attempt to tax First Nations post-secondary education assistance. The moratorium is in place until 2006, allowing us more time to ensure that the moratorium becomes permanent.- - Apparently the Canada Revenue Agency took a legal opinion from the Department of Justice that education dollars given to First Nations students is a government policy/program and not a treaty right, so in essence, it is taxable. Beginning in the 2005 tax year, the Canada Revenue Agency was planning on taxing all Aboriginal post secondary student support funding as income to students. Included in this income is tuition, book allowance and living allowance, scholarships, bursaries and travel dollars. The AFN National Chief said, - -The federal Crown should not penalize our students seeking higher education, nor should it be taxing our treaty and Aboriginal rights- -.First Nation organizations recently initiated a protest, when they learned the agency had sent a letter to First Nations about its plans to tax students education funds next year. The Ontario Native Education Counselling Association ONECA, was leading an effort to reverse the federal government decision. ONECA invited everyone to sign a petition, - -With post secondary education being one of the most important factors for the improved development of Native communities, taxation of support funding will only add to the already difficult financial burden of Native post secondary students. We believe that enrolment and successful completion of post secondary education will decline due to the added financial stresses.- -

July 22, 2004 - Young Families in Toronto report says, - -The number of Aboriginal families in Toronto is continuing to grow. Aboriginal families in Toronto are also younger than other families. Yet, the Aboriginal population is more likely to be poor and has lower incomes than the rest of the population. All levels of government need to respond to the growing needs of Aboriginal peoples in Canadas urban centres. The federal government should work with urban Aboriginal leaders and communities to strengthen the Urban Aboriginal Strategy- -. Here is one perspective was among those shared by young Aboriginal families in Toronto, as part of a study called Community Voices - Young Parents in Toronto Speak Out About Work, Community Services and Family Life, - -As Native people, we had the whole community with our children. Now we dont have that. Our parents were put into residential schools and told how terrible our culture is and our language is. People try to leave that and come here. Its even harder to get yourself together in the city than it is in the reserve. You dont know who you are supposed to be.- -

Increasingly, Aboriginal people are living in urban centres. Since 1996, the Aboriginal population in Toronto has grown by 15 percent, an increase that is three and a half times higher than for the population as a whole. The Aboriginal population is also younger than the City average. In Toronto, the median average age of the Aboriginal population was 31 years, compared with a median average age of 36.7 years for the population as a whole. According to A Report of the Prospects for Young Families in Toronto Project, by the Community Social Planning Council of Toronto and Family Service Association of Toronto - -the face of poverty in Ontarios largest city is increasingly that of the young - particularly young parents with children, young families from racialized groups, and young immigrant and Aboriginal families- -.

The following is an excerpt of the section Aboriginal Families - -Parents identified the racist treatment of Native communities in Canada, through the condemnation of Native customs and language, the introduction of reserves and residential schools and the apprehension of Native children, as having a profoundly damaging impact on their communities. While communities work to heal these wounds, contemporary discrimination and the lasting legacy of the past continue to take their toll. Aboriginal participants described experiences of discrimination from employers, at the welfare office and in society in general. Parents who are biracial, or in interracial relationships, described experiences of racism as well. Most Aboriginal parents in the study had dropped out of high school and faced many roadblocks in their later attempts to complete their education. Without a high school diploma, parents, despite considerable work experience in some cases, had great difficulty landing jobs. Aboriginal parents want improved access to secondary schools in their communities.

While Aboriginal organizations offer many excellent programs, participants identified the need for additional free or low cost programs and services to support young families. Parents commented on the erroneous perception that Native people enjoy free and easy access to programs and services. Many experienced barriers to accessing programs. Many parents wanted to enroll their children in the Aboriginal Head-Start program but could not access this half-day program because they lacked child care support for the remainder of the day. To facilitate access to this program, parents would like the program expanded or additional child care provided to cover the work day. Aboriginal families commented on their lack of access to child care in general. With limited social and economic support, Aboriginal mothers reported feeling depressed and overwhelmed. Many parents did not use childrens aid support services for fear that their children might be apprehended. Parents would like more supports available to improve the social and economic situation of Aboriginal families.- -

Regina police officers, armed with a warrant, conducted a second search this week of the home of Tamra Keepness, the missing 5 year old Aboriginal girl. Police removed some furniture from the home, not long after they went there with child protection workers who removed the five brothers and sisters of the missing girl. Meanwhile, police forensic experts are combing what is left of a van, found in Fort Qu Appelle. It was torched, and may be the van police said was stolen the night Tamra went missing, and may be a link to what happened to the little girl. What is not linked to her disappearance is the assault charge laid against her stepfather Dean McArthur, charged in connection with an incident in the Keepness home hours after Tamra was last seen by her family. After being released on bail, McArthur told reporters the charge against him has nothing to do with the disappearance of his stepdaughter.

July 21, 2004 - The new Minister of Indian Affairs Andy Scott is scheduled to address First Nation chiefs Thursday at the AFN annual general assembly in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. The National Chief Phil Fontaine is keen to hear what the minister has to say about the government commitment to address First Nation concerns, as articulated during the historic roundtable earlier this year. However, a more important message Fontaine hopes to hear, is that the fact the Minister of Indian Affairs also is responsible for Metis and Non-Status Indians, will not have a negative impact on First Nations. The National Chief made it clear after the Prime Minister unveiled his new cabinet, that the AFN is interested in a separate First Nation agenda and not an Aboriginal agenda. He expressed concerns that having one minister responsible for First Nations and Aboriginal issues could create conflict over access to limited resources. The AFN leader expressed concerns while the Chiefs of Ontario, the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples and the Metis National Council greeted the cabinet changes with optimism.

Five Aboriginal children have been apprehended by child protection officials in Regina. The five are brothers and sisters of 5 year old Tamra Keepness who has been missing from her home for more than two weeks. The authorities removed the children from the Keepness family home on Ottawa Street, but no-one is explaining why. However, a police spokesman said it was because of an - -issue of safety--. Earlier this week, the stepfather of Tamra Keepness was charged with assault. Regina police say they learned of the violent incident during their investigation into the disappearance of Tamra two weeks ago. However, police are quick to say they have not tied the assault specifically to the disappearance of the Aboriginal girl. 29 year old Dean McArthur was charged with assault causing bodily harm to 33 year old Russell Sheepskin. The assault took place in the Keepness family home on Ottawa street, the night Tamra was last seen by her family. Reporters say McArthur flashed his middle finger at them from the prisoner box when he appeared in court Monday. He made another court appearance yesterday.

The new federal cabinet in Ottawa is receiving mixed reviews from Aboriginal leaders. The Metis Nation and the Chiefs of Ontario are optimistic, the head of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples is elated, but the National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations raised serious concerns. The irony, is that Phil Fontaine is seen as having close ties to the federal Liberals, and you would not expect him to be the naysayer against Prime Minister Paul Martin and his new ministers. But he is!

In a news release, the Assembly of First Nations National Chief made it clear he is not pleased with the decision to make one Minister responsible for all Aboriginal issues, - -Our major concern today is not with the individual named as the new Minister, but with the fact that one Minister holds responsibility for both First Nations and Metis affairs. In the past these responsibilities have been separated and were separated for a reason. We have been resisting the -aboriginalization- of our agenda for a long time because our situations, our rights and our approaches are different- -. The National Chief stated he will be seeking clarification immediately with the new government to ensure they are not pursuing a misguided -melting pot- approach. Fontaine said a single Aboriginal approach could allow the bureaucracy to control and manipulate resources based on their own priorities and not those of First Nations. - -This ultimately could mean taking away from resources that are already insufficient and declining and do not meet the needs of our communities and our citizens.- -

But it is obvious not everyone agrees with the National Chief. In fact, in blatant contrast, the announcement of the new federal cabinet was received with optimism by the Chiefs of Ontario, - -The appointment of Andy Scott as both the Minister responsible for Indian and Northern Affairs and Federal Interlocutor for Metis and Non-Status Indians with Sue Barnes as the Parliamentary Secretary to/Minister Scott/ is a clear signal that the federal government is serious about actioning its Aboriginal agenda- -.

Metis National Council President Clement Chartier said he is optimistic that the unprecedented appointment of the Honourable Andy Scott as Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs and Federal Interlocutor for Metis will ensure that Metis are included -front-and-centre- in the federal Aboriginal agenda.which Prime Minister Martin has previously committed will be a priority of his government. - -We believe having a Minister responsible for all three constitutionally recognized Aboriginal people is another important step in our evolving relationship with the federal government. We now have a Minister that is dedicated full-time to the Aboriginal agenda and the Metis are a vital component of that agenda. As well, Minister Scott, as the Co-Chair of the Aboriginal Affairs Cabinet Committee will be in a position to secure a mandate to negotiate with the Metis Nation and fulfill the Prime Ministers commitment at the Canada-Aboriginal Peoples Roundtable to enter into a Framework Agreement with the Metis Nation- -.

Dwight Dorey, the national chief of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples said the appointment of Andy Scott, both as Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, and as Federal Interlocutor for Metis and Non- Status Indians, bodes well for a more pan-Aboriginal and inclusive approach to the issues of concern to all Aboriginal people living in Canada, regardless of their status or residency. Dwight Dorey, who advocates for the rights of off-reserve Aboriginal peoples hopes the appointment of the minister to both portfolios, represents a strong signal that Prime Minister Paul Martin is intent upon moving toward some of the more important recommendations of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples, including the creation of a department of Aboriginal affairs. - -I see this as a very symbolic and potentially very historic move for all Aboriginal people, including the 78 per cent who do not come under the provisions of the Indian Act, and who do not live in reserve communities,- - he said.

However, the National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations is opposed to the government imposing a pan-Aboriginal approach, or anything to diminish First Nation rights, - -We dont want the lines blurred . . . we have distinct interests . . . unique rights- -.

July 20, 2004 - Prime Minister Paul Martin unveiled his new cabinet, including for the first time, the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development is also the Federal Interlocutor for Metis and Non-Status Indians. New Brunswick member of parliament Andy Scott, a former solicitor general, is the new Indian Affairs minister. His Parliamentary Secretary is Susan Barnes of London, Ontario. Her past experience includes Chair of the Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development. Ethel Blondin-Andrew, Member of Parliament for Western Arctic, has been appointed as Minister of State /Northern Development/. - -I am pleased to welcome Ethel back as part of our team,- - said Prime Minister Martin. - -With her deep knowledge of the North, our deliberations are broadened by the perspectives Ethel brings to Cabinet discussions.- - There was a delay in her appointment in order to await the results of a judicial recount following the federal election on June 28, 2004. However, the application for a judicial recount has now been withdrawn.

The members of the Cabinet Aboriginal Affairs committee to support a renewed emphasis on Aboriginal issues include, the Prime Minister as Chair, the Indian Affairs Minister as Vice-Chair. Members are Senator Jacob Austin - Deputy Prime Minister Anne McLellan - Minister of Environment Stephane Dion - Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, Geoff Regan - Justice Minister, Irwin Cotler - Minister of Natural Resources, Ruben John Efford - Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, Giuseppe /Joseph/ Volpe - Minister of Labour and Housing, Joseph Frank Fontana - Minister of Social Development, Ken Dryden - Minister of State for Public Health, Carolyn Bennett.

The announcement of the new federal cabinet was received with optimism by the Chiefs of Ontario, - -The appointment of Andy Scott as both the Minister responsible for Indian and Northern Affairs and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians with Sue Barnes as the Parliamentary Secretary to is a clear signal that the federal government is serious about actioning its Aboriginal agenda- -. In a news release, Ontario Regional Chief Charles Fox said, - -I look forward to introducing the Chiefs of Ontario agenda to the new Ministry. I am confident that we can foster solid working relations with the newly appointed Ministers- -. The Chiefs of Ontario are looking for political relationships and strategies that would, - - . . . achieve measurable results for First Nation communities across Ontario and support the rights based agenda that the Chiefs of Ontario maintain as the foundation of their communities and governments- -.

Securing the Place for First Nations in Canada and the World, is the theme of the 25th Annual AFN General Assembly, that gets underway today in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. A key question on the minds of some participants is whether a Minority Government in Ottawa can deliver on the promises made to First Nations by Prime Minister Paul Martin prior to the June election. - -To discuss and implement the framework for Recognition and Implementation of First Nations Government.- - The AFN through community and regional discussions, and the senior bureaucrats amongst themselves in the Liberal government, are moving forward on processes to deal with the Recognition and Implementation of First Nations Government. But when push comes to shove, if they try to make any significant changes, will they make it through Parliament? The good news is that the New Democrats support First Nations. The bad news is that Stephen Harper and his Conservatives have more members of Parliamewnt than ever before, and have never been known to be supportive of the strenghtening of Inherent Rights. However, from the perspective of the senior bureaucracy, the only commitment being made is to review and change federal policies, guidelines and processes. No mention of changing laws, passing new legislation, or doing anything regarding Aboriginal Rights, Treaties or Self-Government, that might trigger a nasty parliamentary debate. The AFN received clear direction that more community and regional First Nation input was required before any detailed proposals could be made on a process for engaging the federal government, and before any substantive discussions could be undertaken with the federal government on establishing a process for the recognition and implementation of First Nations Government. However, the AFN leadership wants to receive approval from the chiefs this week, to move ahead with a broad framework to continue its work with the government, while at the same time providing more opportunities to get feedback at more community and regional forums. - -The recent federal election has changed the political landscape in Canada and we will be discussing how we can engage and move forward and secure the place of First Nations in Canada in this new environment. As well, we are now in the final year of the United Nations International Decade on the Worlds Indigenous Peoples and the UN has yet to ratify the Draft Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Our Assembly will focus on issues like these that touch on the domestic agenda and the international sphere. We must find ways to work together to make our unified voices heard both here in Canada and on the international stage,- - said National Chief Phil Fontaine.

July 19, 2004 - In her annual report, the Child and Youth Officer urged the BC Government to move ahead with transferring child welfare responsibilities to Aboriginal communities. Jane Morley said, - -. . . barriers to Aboriginal communities’ autonomous authority for
planning and providing services for their children and youth . . . can also be overcome- -. Aboriginal children and youth account for approximately 8 percent of the general child and youth population in British Columbia, yet over 40 percent of the children and youth in care, are identified as Aboriginal. Morley explained that the persistent over-representation of Aboriginal children and youth in the child welfare system requires a dramatic shift in approach if it is to change in the future. Autonomy sufficient for Aboriginal communities to provide culturally affirmative services for their children and youth holds the promise of rectifying some of the damage done historically by the breaking of ties between Aboriginal children and their families, communities and cultures. It increases the likelihood of a holistic and communitarian approach to services and supports for Aboriginal children, youth and families. Her report said communities of Indigenous peoples in British Columbia must have, - -sufficient resources and capacity and the necessary autonomy to provide culturally affirmative and effective services for their children, youth and families- -. The report outlines the complexities in the Aboriginal cultural and political context in BC. - numerous geographically dispersed bands, many with a population of less than 500 - Aboriginal cultural diversity /historically over 20 distinct Aboriginal cultures/ - key land claim and self government issues still to be determined in court - ongoing and very slow treaty negotiations - four major provincial Aboriginal political organizations with differing perspectives - migration patterns between reserve and urban communities that can significantly diminish community stability.
Aboriginal communities in British Columbia have both unique capacities and unique challenges in realizing the goal of a community-based service delivery system. - -The unique capacity lies with the consistency of Aboriginal culture with the underlying values of MCFD’s service transformation. The unique challenges are geographical, historical, economic and social. Expecting communities to take on responsibility without sufficient resources is setting them up for failure. It is not, however, just a question of the amount of the financial resources. The strings attached to funding also create an obstacle to autonomous decision-making. The anomalies of the federal funding formula for Aboriginal children living on reserves provide a case in point. The formula ties funding to the number of children in care, thereby providing a disincentive to keeping children in their families and communities and out of the care of the state. In 2000, a National Policy Review on First Nations Child and Family Services was conducted, resulting in 17 recommendations to improve the funding formula. These recommendations were, and continue to be, widely supported. So far no significant change has been made.- - Morley intends to continue to put pressure on the federal government to make the necessary reforms. - -The mutual lack of financial resources, and, particularly in Aboriginal communities, the lack of human resources, suggest the need for collaboration among Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal authorities and communities. - -Aboriginal communities’ historic distrust of government and of non-Aboriginal service providers in the child welfare system makes this needed collaboration a challenge. There are signs of collaboration beginning to happen in some regions as a result of the governance process, but the building of trust is a very delicate process, and whether it can withstand the closing down of the non-Aboriginal planning committees and the reduction of budgets of the Aboriginal planning committees remains to be seen. Strategies must be developed and adequately funded to continue the relationship building that has begun.- -

The stepfather of 5 year old Tamra Keepness was charged with assault. Regina police say they learned of the violent incident during their investigation into the disappearance of Tamra two weeks ago. However, police are quick to say they have not tied the assault specifically to the disappearance of the Aboriginal girl. 29 year old Dean McArthur was charged with assault causing bodily harm to 33 year old Russell Sheepskin. The assault took place in the Keepness family home on Ottawa street, the night Tamra was last seen by her family. Reporters say McArthur flashed his middle finger at them from the prisoner box when he appeared in court today. His next court appearance comes on Tuesday.

700 workers at the Great Blue Heron Casino have their first-ever union contract, at the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation near Port Perry, Ontario. CAW members voted 77 per cent in favour of accepting an agreement. The three-year agreement provides for substantial annual wage increases - provides casino workers with additional significant
benefits such as increased job protection, enhanced vacation time, cash in lieu of benefits for part-timers, and other enhancements. The Great Blue Heron Charity Casino is situated on First Nation land - approximately a one hour drive from Toronto.

July 18, 2004 - It looks like the long-running legal battle over the 9,000-year-old Kennewick Man skeleton is over. Tribal governments in Washington state have decided not to continue their legal pursuit, to protect ancestral remains, among the oldest on Turtle Island, from the probing of scientists. The Kennewick Man skeleton was found in the Columbia Riverbank in July 1996. At first it appeared as though the right thing would be done, when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers said it would return the bones to Native Americans for reburial. However, eight anthropologists, including two from the Smithsonian Institute launched a legal challenge, claiming scientists should not be deprived of the right to study this treasure, as they called it. One tribal spokesman echoed the thoughts of many when he suggested the scientists study their own bones. Earlier this year a federal district court ruled in favour of the scientists. Tribal governments have weighed their options, and considered the expensive route to the Supreme Court, and have decided to drop their legal challenge. However, it is likely Tribes will demand participation in the scientific studies to ensure the least desecration to the ancestral remains. Lobbying efforts are expected to get the U.S. Congress to agree to strengthen the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act.

July 17, 2004 - A long-term Aboriginal Member of Parliament faces a judicial recount of the votes in Western Arctic /Northwest Territories. Following validation of the results in the electoral district, the difference between Ethel Blondin-Andrew and her nearest rival was 52 votes. The candidate who came in second, Dennis Bevington of the NDP requested the recount. Ethel Blondin-Andrew was the first Aboriginal woman to be elected to the House of Commons in 1988, as Member of Parliament for the Western Arctic. She was re-elected in 1993, 1997 and 2000. Most recently, she served as Secretary of State/ Children and Youth. She is from the Dene Nation.

The first Ontario Aboriginal Summer Games are underway this weekend at Laurentian University track facilities in Sudbury. Some of the most talented young Aboriginal competitors, and novices too, from across the province are participating in these innaugural games, focusing on track and field. There also is a Special Olympics event for special needs athletes. As the games grow, sports will be added with hopes in building participation and sport development for the North American Indigenous Games.

July 16, 2004 - - -I think that aliens are probably more represented on TV than Aboriginal people.- - That is one comment from focus groups that contributed to what is being called the most comprehensive research study on cultural diversity and the media ever undertaken, anywhere. According to the members of the Aboriginal communities interviewed, the most pervasive stereotype of Aboriginal Peoples is of the drunken, impoverished, and illiterate -natives- who are either living on the street of major urban centers or living on reservations. The Task Force on Cultural Diversity in Television included Squamish Nation Hereditary Chief Stefany Mathias. The comprehensive report includes for example, - -Onscreen presence of Aboriginal Peoples is considerably less than their corresponding presence in the general population . . . a virtual absence of Aboriginal representation outside of the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network. . . Aboriginal Peoples were most commonly identified as being severely underrepresented on Canadian television, not only in focus groups consisting of Aboriginal men and women, but also by other minority respondents.- - The Task Force developed and recommended a comprehensive set of Best Practices and Industry Initiatives guided by the following principles - The broadcasting industry must make a long-term commitment to advancing cultural diversity goals onscreen and behind the camera - The Best Practices are flexible in their design, so they can be applied as appropriate for the market and operational realities of individual broadcasters. - Best Practices have been developed so that their progress can be measured over time. - All sectors of the industry - producers, directors, actors, funding agencies - must demonstrate long-term commitment to advancing diversity goals in order to effect real change within the system. The Task Force has organized its Best Practices into 10 areas - 1. Industry Commitment 2. Application and Measurement 3. Corporate Commitment and Accountability 4. Recruitment, Hiring, Retention 5. Internship, Mentoring and Scholarships 6. News and Information Programming 7. Programming - Acquired, Independent, and In-house Production 8. Community Connections 9. Internal Communications 10. External Communications.

It is a divisive political picture in Ontario - Metis vs Metis, over hard-fought-for, harvesting rights. Conflict surfaced recently, after the Metis Nation of Ontario MNO announced it had struck a deal with the Ontario government so Metis people could exercise traditiona harvesting practices. Other political organizations with Metis members, call the Metis Nation deal unfair, because it excludes most Metis people across the province. Now, the Ontario Metis Aboriginal Association OMAA, is being publicly supported by the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples CAP. OMAA is a constituent member organization of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples. Dwight Dorey, CAP national chief supports the OMAA claim that it represents the largest number of Metis people in the province, and that all Metis should have the right to exercise traditional harvesting practices, not just those affiliated with the smaller Ontario Metis Nation. - -Harvesting rights are community rights, not individual rights, and as such, should be open to all Metis communities in the province.- - The agreement between the Metis Nation of Ontario and the Ministry of Natural Resources, allows for the issuing of as many as 1250 hunting tags - but only to those Metis who claim to be a member of that organization. Dorey points out the obvious - - . . . the deal is unfair in that it excludes by far the largest number of Metis people in the province – those represented by the Ontario Metis Aboriginal Association. . . It is not acceptable to let one small organization dictate who is and who is not a Metis, in Ontario or anywhere else,- - said chief Dorey. The Ontario Metis Aboriginal Association currently is defending more than 100 of its members in harvesting court cases throughout the province.

July 15, 2004 - Direct action by First Nation against the $Billion sale of BC Rail to CN Rail. A threat to blockade the rail line turned into brief action today when the Seton Lake First Nation, with the support of the Union of BC Indian Chiefs, blockaded the BC Rail line near Lillooet, BC. Seton Lake Chief Gary John took the action out of frustration from lack of consultation by the BC Government. While the province and private interests have reaped many financial and economic benefits over the years, the Seton Lake First Nation has not benefited from the use of its land. Chief John is looking to negotiate revnue sharing as well as receiving land, in exchange for the loss of the land a hundred years ago, landthat is being used for the rail.

A strike has been averted on-reserve at the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation - Great Blue Heron Casino near Port Perry, Ontario. CAW Canada, the largest private sector union in the country, reached a tentative agreement with the casino, covering 700 workers. The tentative agreement addresses many issues identified by the membership including wages, seniority, benefits, pension and union representation. A strike deadline had been set for today. Ratification meetings will be held every two hours this Saturday, July 17 from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. at the Island Hall on Island Road /18971 Regional Road 7, Port Perry. If approved, this will be the first contract for the unionized casino workers. It has been a long struggle that saw the First Nation try to assert jurisdiction, only to lose legal, and Labour Board decisions that favoured the union and the workers.

July 14, 2004 - - -I wanted to get beyond the notion of just physical geography. I understand landscape is a way of articulating how humans see or perceive or experience the physical world around them. It is not just a physical world for aboriginal people, it is also a spiritual world. And totemic identity also has a very strong, in my experience, a very strong spiritual component.- - Those are but a few of the many, insightful words from the first witness at the Ipperwash Inquiry in Forest, Ontario - Professor Darlene Johnston of the University of Toronto School of Law. She is a member of the Marten clan of the Chippewas of Nawash First Nation on Georgian Bay. Appearing at the inquiry as an expert witness, Professor Johnston presented detailed information and historical research documents . Her presentation included a paper she prepared called, Connecting People to Place, Aboriginal History in Cultural Context. Professor Johnston is an expert in Great Lakes aboriginal history and traditions - the Great Lakes Algonquian speaking peoples and the Iroquoian speaking peoples, including the connection between territory and totemic identify and governance - that is who was entitled to govern. Whether the system was hereditary or elected. Her Powerpoint presentation was detailed and complex, but I believe it provided important insight - to show how an obvious cultural clash began many years ago, and would influence relationships, and determine how misinformed the newcomers and their subsequent governments could be, about Aboriginals and their lands and their rights.

For example, - -Algonquian is a term used by linguists but it refers to people who, in our language, speak Anishnaabemwin . Anishinabek people speak Anishnaabemwin. And we, in fact, suffered, I think, the greatest disservice in terms of the naming practices with our complex social and totemic and political identities being distilled down to some very common denominators, particularly by the British. And what I mean by this is, each totemic group, as a result of my research, I have been able to find, had a particular name, and sometimes, in fact, more than one name. And when the French first came to the region, their first guides into the Great Lakes were, in fact, Iroquoian speaking peoples, the Huron, or the Wendat, who lived in what is now Penatanguishene area. And so when the French first came, the first words they heard, or the first names they heard for Anishinabek peoples, were Huron names. Then they got to know the Anishinabek people and started using our individual totemic names, but eventually they started in terms, I suppose, of bureaucratic or administrative efficiency, to use some generic terms. So, rather than calling the various groups, whether they are Crane people, Cat people -- Catfish people, or Bear people - those names, those started calling them Outaouac or the people that lived at the Sioux, they called them Sauteurs. Even so, the French had more variety in their naming practises than the British. By the time the British enter the region in 1760, they are calling people either Chippewa, Ottawa, or Potawatomi. And those designations, in fact, blur very important territorial differences and totemic differences. And so, I wanted to be able to show that, of the very highly nuanced forms of identity that existed at contact, they would get watered down by the French and then even more so by the British. And it creates a problem then, because if the people that we are concerned with, signed a Treaty in 1827, and they are called Chippewas, and you go back looking for Chippewas in the early contact period, you are not going to find them, because Chippewa is not a name that they used themselves, and it is not a name that the French use. And so the name Chippewa does not show up until the beginning of the British regime, and if you insist on just looking for Chippewas, you will think that there were no Chipewas there in the early period. And so you need another way, a more stable indicator of identity to be able to make the connection back in time through the French regime and into the very early contact period. . . In my research, I am satisfied that totemic identity is the most stable and the earliest form of identity, which persists across the four centuries since contact.- -

Professor Johnston used herself as a way of explaining the significance of totemic identity. - -Aboriginal cultures in North America, well at least in Eastern North America, are based on a kinship system which is also known as a totemic system or a clan system. And for the Great Lakes people who speak Anishnaabemwin - Algonquian speaking peoples. Our totemic system is -- is patrilineal, that is, children are -- when they are born, they are born into the clan of their father or the dodaim of their father. So, for instance, my fathers father is Potawatomi and he is Marten clan. My fathers mother is Otter dodaim. So when my father was born he is the son of an Otter and a Marten, but he is a Marten. And then because I am my fathers daughter, I am also a Marten. So, when you speak to a persons totemic identity, it is how you trace the identity of your clan back generations through the patriline.- -

Abrupt End to the Police Search for Tamra Keepness in Regina . . . Police now will concentrate on the investigation and . . .the possibility of human interference. The area search was suspended Monday night following a week of intense searching by hundreds of people. - -5600 hours of search time,- - Deputy Police Chief Clive Weighill explained at a news conference. He described the area search as, - -complete, thorough, and systematic. Several leads looked promising,- - however Weighill said the search found no sign of Tamra or her personal belongings. - -. . .no direct evidence to come to any conclusion- -. Police Chief Cal Johnston announced that the Regina Board of Police Commissioners authorized a $25,000 reward. He assured everyone that the search is not over altogether but the police now will, - -...concentrate on the investigation. We will find Tamra,- - exclaimed Chief Johnston promising with determination that police will continue to follow-up leads, as part of the ongoing investigation. However, in a reality check, the police chief acknowledged, - -Criminal interference with Tamra is a distinct possibility.- - Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations, Vice-Chief Guy Lonechild committed, - -We wish to continue in search efforts to locate Tamra- -. He said LaRonge and Montreal Lake First Nations expert search teams are providing help. The FSIN Vice-Chief expressed gratitude for all the help and support flowing from First Nations across Saskatchewan. As well, - -A family support fund has been set up- -. Vice-Chief Lonechild was appreciative of the efforts police have made and appreciative of the priority given to the case by the Mayor and Police Commission,- -We appreciate efforts of Regina police to find this little girl- -. He said the FSIN hopes this case will draw attention to the many other First Nations people missing across Canada.

July 13, 2004 - Despite grave concerns expressed by community members, the Department of Indian Affairs plans to maintain the status quo at Kanesatake. Andy Mitchell, Minister of Indian Affairs announced the Government of Canada will continue to recognize the ongoing authority of the current Grand Chief, James Gabriel and members of the Council of the community of Kanesatake until an election takes place in the community. The mandate of the current Council end at midnight tonight July 13. Chief Gabriel said he and Council passed a Band Council Resolution on June 29th to hold an election on October 9, 2004. The Indian Affairs Minister said that until the October 9 election, the Government of Canada intends to continue working with the current Chief and Council.

Non-Aboriginal fishermen vow to take their case all the way to the Supreme Court of Canada. This follows the decision by the BC Supreme Court reversing a Provincial Court ruling that said the Aboriginal Fishery was unconstitutional. Mr. Justice Donald Brenner of the BC Supreme Court said the federal program to assist Aboriginals in the BC salmon fishery does discriminate against non-aboriginals. Ken Malloway of the Aboriginal Fisheries Commission called it a great victory, but acknowledged the legal fight is not over yet. In fact, the B.C. Fisheries Survival Coalition, said it will appeal on behalf of the 140 commercial fishermen, convicted of illegally fishing during an Aboriginal-only opening in 1998. The Department of Fisheries scrapped the Aboriginal fisheries pilot project following the lower court ruling last summer. The BC Supreme Court judge suggested the federal government should come up with a better way to assist Aboriginal fishermen.

A day after they said they would not stop searching for Tamra Keepness until they found her, the Regina Police abruptly ended the search today. No immediate explanation was given, and a news conference was to be held by the Police chief to provide details. Just yesterday the police search took on greater proportions as the RCMP began an aerial search, in addition to the police and volunteers ground and water search of Regina. Lorena Keepness said her 5 year old daughter Tamra was sent to bed Monday night July 5th, but the next morning she was missing for her Ottawa Street home. Her father Troy Keepness told reporters soon after, that Tamra was not a wanderer. However, her mother later on described her daughter as a child who liked to explore.

July 12, 2004 - Ground, water and now aerial searching, are among the efforts to find 5 year old Tamra Keepness, by Regina police and the RCMP in Saskatchewan. The ground search includes dozens of volunteers and police officers who are now double checking neighbourhoods that were previously searched. The police confirmed they have interviewed known sex offenders, and have received hundreds of leads. They have used police dogs as part of their targeted approach, going back a second time to search inner city areas of Regina.

Strike Appears Inevitable . . . The Great Blue Heron Casino of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, is the target of union action. CAW strike deadline of Thursday July 15th looms. The union represents 700 workers at the casino on-reserve near Port Perry, Ontario. The union says the outstanding issues of contract language and wages and benefits are still to be resolved. Bargaining for a first contract began on February 18, 2004. Bargaining was made possible because of a December 2003 decision from the Ontario Labour Board, stating that the Casino is governed by the legal framework of the Ontario Labour Relations Act and must commence bargaining with the CAW - despite opposition from the First Nation that argued it had jurisdiction.

Testimony begins tomorrow/Tuesday/ at the Ipperwash Inquiry in Forest, Ontario where the family of Dudley George hopes to see justice, and evidence that the government in 1995 was responsible for his shooting death by police. First witnesses are experts in Aboriginal history and culture. Obviously, relations with the police have improved somewhat since 1995 when O.P.P. officer Kenneth Deane shot and killed an unarmed Dudley George at Ipperwash Park. An example of relationship building is evident in Orillia, Ontario this week. Provincial Police and 92 Aboriginal people from across the province have gathered at the OPP Provincial Police Academy. They are participating in a week of physical activity, practical exercises, mentoring sessions and relationship building. According to the O.P.P., - -These men and women are being exposed to the advantages of policing while having a great deal of fun in a culturally supportive setting. This new and exciting initiative is geared to deliver information in an exciting and interactive way to Aboriginal people who are considering a career in policing.- -

Regina police reported that they have received hundreds of leads and have interviewed known sex offenders. However, they appear to be no closer to finding 5 year old Tamra Keepness. The Aboriginal girl went missing a week ago. Today the police search changed focus, to include targeted areas of the inner city - now being searched a second time. This follows an expanded search area that saw dozens of police, search and rescue and volunteers comb more neighbourhoods on the weekend, into the early hours of Saturday and Sunday. Although there is no trace of Tamra, her family continues to pray with optimism that she is still alive and will be found.

Native leaders, and fishermen will be keeping a close watch for a court decision expected to be delivered today, regarding the legaliies related to Aboriginal fisheries in British Columbia. The Chief Justice of the BC Supreme Court will hand down a
decision on the Kapp appeal. The July 28, 2003 Kapp decision of the B.C. provincial court ruled the pilot sales fishery, which is a small component of the Aboriginal Fisheries
Strategy, inconsistent with Section 15 of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. First Nations leaders will be in court in Vancouver for the delivery of the important decision.

July 11, 2004 - Regina police and volunteers continued their search for 5 year old Tamra Keepness, missing from her home since last Monday night. Dozens of volunteers from across the city and from other parts of Saskatchewan have joined the search. The police have also received offers of support from police agencies and citizens from across Canada. Locally, the police investigation team requested that anyone who may have been in the area of the 1800 block Ottawa Street the night of July 5th or in the early morning hours of July 6th, make contact with our Police Service. This would include not only residents of the area and visitors, but taxicab drivers, City workers, employees on shift work or restaurant delivery people who may have traveled through the neighbourhood. - -These individuals may have noted some activity or persons that at the time may not have seemed suspicious, but if they were in the area during those hours, they may be able to assist investigators in some way.- - The police want to point out the efforts they have been making in this missing person case. For example, officers and staff of the Regina Police Cultural Relations Unit - -. . .since early in this investigation into the disappearance of Tamra KEEPNESS, have been working with the family and extended family of Tamra KEEPNESS, and the larger Aboriginal community. They are there to facilitate communication between the family and Aboriginal community and the Regina Police Service- -.

For the 4th time, Aboriginal Voices Radio, headed by actor Gary Farmer, has been granted a delay by the CRTC regarding the license for Native FM radio at 95.7 in Ottawa. The federal broadcast regulator approved an AVR application to delay going on air in the capital city, - -The undertaking must be operational at the earliest possible date and in any event no later than 14 October 2004, unless a request for an extension of time is approved by the Commission before that date. In order to ensure that such a request is processed in a timely manner, it should be submitted at least 60 days before that date.
Secretary General.- - AVR received CRTC approval for its license in October 2001, and had originally planned to have the Ottawa station on air in October 2002. Technical difficulties have caused numerous delays, including the latest because, - -AVR has not yet concluded a new transmission facility lease agreement and access to the transmitter site cannot take place until ground transportation is available.- - Aboriginal Voices Radio has received approval for Native radio in Montreal, Kitchener/Waterloo, Edmonton, Calgary, Vancouver, and is on air in Toronto, headquarters for a national Aboriginal Voices Radio Network.

July 10, 2004 - Dozens of people, including volunteers from other parts of Saskatchewan, have joined the search for 5 year old Tamra Keepness, missing from her Ottawa Street home in Regina, since Monday night. Her family noticed her missing Tuesday morning, and Regina police then launched a ground search, going door to door in the local neighbourhood. They did that twice, searching an area focused on the nine-block area around the 1800 block of Ottawa Street. Then they expanded the search area, from Saskatchewan Drive north to the C-P Rail line and south to Broadway Avenue, and added more officers, along with search and rescue crews. As many as 70 trained volunteers have been involved in the ground search, some from Carry The Kettle First Nation, QuAppelle, Moosejaw and Lloydminster. 44 RCMP cadets-in-training, 16 trained volunteers with Search and Rescue and 12 uniformed members of the Regina Police Service were actively involved in the ground search until 3:00 a.m. on Saturday. In addition, up to 18 police investigators worked on the case through the night. Investigators continue their work today, pursuing leads and evaluating information that continues to come in. Still no evidence to change investigation from Missing Person case. The ground search resumed operations at approximately 10:00 a.m. today /Saturday, July 10, 2004. Search and Rescue used a boat to check Wascana Creek. Regina police say they do not have information or evidence to suggest they should change their investigation from missing person, to criminal.

A rosier picture is being painted of Aboriginal children who live off-reserve. The latest Statistics Canada report, based on the 2001 Census, paints a portrait of Aboriginal children aged 14 and younger who live in non-reserve areas in Canada. It describes a group of young people who are, for the most part, healthy, have more opportunities for Aboriginal education at the preschool level, and are active in extra-curricular activities.

The 2001 Census enumerated about 227,000 Aboriginal children aged 14 and younger who lived in non-reserve areas, almost 70 percent of all Aboriginal children in Canada. Children in this age group represented 32 percent of the non-reserve Aboriginal population in 2001, far higher than the proportion of 18 percent that children in this age group represented in the non-Aboriginal population. The level of health of these Aboriginal children, as rated by their parents, was slightly lower than that of all children in the general population. The gap in self-rated health between Aboriginal children in non-reserve areas and all Canadian children was smaller among children aged 6 to 14 than among children aged 5 and younger. This gap was even smaller in the age group of 15- to 24-year-olds.

The Aboriginal Peoples Survey showed that Aboriginal children living in non-reserve areas were increasingly attending preschool programs specifically designed for them. Aboriginal children in non-reserve areas were active in extra-curricular activities - For example, 71 percent of children participated in sports at least once a week, while 34 percent spent time with Elders at least once a week. In addition, about 31 percent participated in art and music and 30 percent in clubs or youth, drum and dance groups at least once a week, while 21 percent helped out without pay in the community or at school.

For the Aboriginal population living in non-reserve areas, parents of 83 percent of children aged five and younger ranked the health of their youngsters as either very good or excellent. This compares with 90 percent for children in the general population. Over the past few years, more Aboriginal children living in non-reserve areas were attending preschool programs that were specifically designed for them. In eight years, the proportion of Aboriginal children in non-reserve areas going to such programs had increased almost four-fold.

The Aboriginal Peoples Survey revealed a correlation between participation in these extra-curricular activities and school performance among Aboriginal children living in non-reserve areas. Those children who frequently participated in these extra-curricular activities were more likely to do very well in school, as reported by their parents based on the knowledge about childrens school work, including report cards. A previous Statistics Canada study on Canadian children in general identified a similar correlation - children who participated in organized extra-curricular activities such as sports, arts, music and clubs were more likely to possess greater self-esteem, to enjoy better social interactions with their friends and to achieve relatively higher scholastic results.

July 9, 2004 - The search for Tamra Keepness has been expanded. Regina police have widened the circle of their search area, after twice going door to door in a nine block area of the five year old Aboriginal girls Ottawa Street home. Tamra went missing sometime between when she was sent to bed late Monday night, to when her family tried finding her mid-morning Tuesday. That is when Regina police were called to help find her. Since then, more than two dozen police officers and search and rescue volunteers have scoured city neighbourhoods. Police have emphasized this is not a criminal investigation, although they have cordoned off the Keepness home, to assist their probe in the even foul play becomes clear. The longer Tamra is missing, unfortunately the more likely police believe she disappeared not because of her own doing. Family members have made it clear the little girl is not the type to wander away from her home.

Support continues to grow in favour of a recommendation to honour Leonard Peltier with the Nobel Peace Prize. - -The similarities between the injustice of incarceration of Nelson Mandela and Leonard Peltier is striking.- - That was contained in a letter sent this week to the Nobel Laureate Board in Norway, by Jim Fulton, head of the Suzuki Foundation, and a former member of the Canadian parliament for 15 years. - -During my years in Parliament I attempted to remedy the extreme injustice regarding the illegal extradition of Leonard Peltier from Canada. In fact I introduced legislation to secure his release. Mr. Peltier was taken from Canada on the basis of false information provided by United States authorities. Despite repeated findings by the highest courts in the United States of falsified or incorrect evidence Mr. Peltier has remained in custody for almost 30 years. Leonard Peltier is a political prisoner. Despite efforts around the world to secure his release his internment continues. I urge you to make all possible efforts to award Leonard Peltier the 2004 Nobel Peace Prize. He was illegally arrested. Illegally extradited. And is immorally held. The similarities between the injustice of incarceration of Nelson Mandela and Leonard Peltier is striking. The Nobel Peace Prize is in my view the only key that can fit the lock to release Leonard Peltier. The freedom of the aboriginal peoples of the Americas awaits his release.- - Peltier is serving a life sentence for murdering two FBI agents during a seige against the American Indian Movement.

July 8, 2004 - Police, search and rescue, friends and frantic relatives, are searching the streets and neighbourhoods of Regina, Saskatchewan. 5 year old Tamra Keepness was last seen by her mother at around 11pm Monday when she was sent to bed. On Tuesday morning she was nowhere to be found around her Ottawa Street home, and that is when Regina police were called. Tamra is not described by her family as a wanderer, like some children her age. Her father Troy Keepness, said he is concerned for her safety and well being. He explained that Tamra does not play alone or go out by herself. He said she has a twin sister and this is a difficult time for her, and that the family is hoping someone comes forward with - -good news- -. Regina police officers have been conducting a door to door search, and friends and family have been posting and handing out missing child posters throughout the city.

Link between rapid heartbeat after drinking alcohol and the addictive personality. Medical researchers have discovered what may be a fairly simple way to pinpoint if you are the type of person who is susceptible to addictions. The change in heart rate could act as a tool that could be used to screen people with a risk of developing some type of addiction in the future. Researchers at the Universitat Jaume I in Castellon, Spain, and McGill University in Montreal, have found a relationship between the increased heartbeat some people experience after drinking a certain amount of alcohol, and the risk of developing a personality that is sensitive to rewards and, hence, to addictions. The study concludes that people who experience an increase in their heart rate after drinking alcohol are almost twice as likely to develop a personality that is sensitive to rewards, which is in turn linked to a higher predisposition to any type of addiction. - -For each point sensitivity to reward rises, there is a 21.2 percent increase in the likelihood of suffering rapid heartbeat after drinking alcohol,- - explained Caroline Brunelle from the Department of Psychology at McGill University.

$3.1 Million. That is how much the Anglican Church of Canada says it has paid out in Indian Residential Schools settlement claims of former students. The church reported it now has a Settlement Fund that has topped $11 million - nearly half of the target. The Settlement Fund, was formed last year to pay the Anglican Church of Canadas portion of proven abuse claims stemming from a national boarding school system for Native children. The church has collected $11.6 million of the necessary $25 million. The fund is
paying 30 per cent of settlements /with the federal government paying 70 per cent/ awarded plaintiffs proving sexual or physical abuse in Anglican-run schools. Of the 80 Indian residential schools that existed for more than century into the 1970s, the Anglican church operated 26.

The Canada Council for the Arts has launched a new program that will help Aboriginal artists preserve and promote traditional Aboriginal visual art forms. It is called the Assistance to Aboriginal Traditional Visual Art Forms program. It will fund not only the creation and production of traditional Aboriginal visual art forms, but also research, preservation and dissemination of this type of artistic work. Traditional Aboriginal visual art forms are art forms that are derived from a specific traditional historic art practice and are still evolving today. They include, but are not exclusive to, basketry, applique, beadwork, weaving, traditional Aboriginal pottery/clay techniques and wood-, stone- and bone-carving. Jim Logan, the Council’s Aboriginal Visual Arts Officer, said the Council created this program out of a concern that traditional visual art forms are no longer passed down from generation to generation and - -might well be on the brink of extinction if attention is not paid to their preservation and evolution.- - Before the creation of the new program, traditional Aboriginal visual artists were eligible to apply to other Canada Council visual arts programs. However, Mr. Logan said they were often at a disadvantage because the committees assessing their work tended to give priority to more contemporary art forms. The Council will provide $300,000 a year over the next two years to support this pilot program, after which it will be reviewed.

July 7, 2004 - A five year old Aboriginal girl is missing in Regina, Saskatchewan. Tamra Jewel Keepness was last seen at her home in the 1800 block of Ottawa Street at approximately 11:00 p.m. on Monday, July 5th. She is described as female, Aboriginal, five years old, with short, bobbed brown hair, brown eyes, dark complexion, thin build, weighing about 40 pounds, approximately 3feet 5inches tall. She was last seen wearing a light blue, striped halter top with pink accents, light blue jeans and pink and white shoes. Police have been searching the neighbourhood and other areas since approximately 12:15 p.m. Tuesday. Anyone with information as to the whereabouts of Tamra Jewel Keepness is asked to contact the Regina Police Service at 777-6500 or call Crime Stoppers at 545-TIPS /545-8477.

New research findings say children at-risk of becoming violent adults, can be identified early on, perhaps even during pregnancy. The study to be published in the prestigious medical journal Pediatrics, involved an international team led by Richard Tremblay, a professor of pediatrics at the University of Montreal. They followed 572 new-born children over four years. They identified a group /about 14 percent/ who showed persistent high-levels of physical aggression such as kicking, biting, and hitting.When researchers compared the families of these children to those of the less aggressive children, they found that certain characteristics present before birth put the kids at risk for using more aggression - a mother with high levels of antisocial behaviour before the end of high school - young mothers - low family income - mothers who smoked during pregnancy. Researchers say, - -the results confirmed that physical aggression is not learned during the elementary or secondary school years. Most children have initiated the use of physical aggression before their second birthday - and a small group will continue to do so throughout their lives unless appropriate interventions are done- -. Professor Tremblay notes, - -This study is one more indication that violence prevention should start by programs targeting at-risk families during pregnancy and the first few years after birth- -. Most intervention programs to prevent youth physical aggression and antisocial behavior, target school age children. This is generally too late. - -Interventions targeting infants at high risk of chronic physical aggression would have more of an impact than interventions 5 to 10 years later, when physical aggression has become a way of life.- - Childhood physical aggression not only has an impact on the victims. - -Research has shown that aggressive children themselves are also at higher risk of alcohol and drug abuse, accidents, violent crimes, depression, suicide attempts, spouse abuse, and neglectful and abusive parenting.- -

July 6, 2004 - The Saskatchewan Department of Justice promises to review the public complaints process. It was made clear in a news release this week that the review will include key Aboriginal organizations. The Department of Justice commits to conduct the review, - -. . .in consultation with the Metis Nation–Saskatchewan, the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations.- - The consultation will include the Saskatchewan Association of Chiefs of Police and the Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers. The review will include the former Saskatchewan Justice Minister Robert Mitchell, who was appointed the new police complaints investigator. Mitchell replaces Elton Gritzfeld, who has served as complaints investigator for the past 11 years. Under The Saskatchewan Police Act, the complaints investigator is an independent civilian who reviews public complaints about municipal police services. Whatever the review includes, it must address recent recommendations contained in the final report of the Commission on First Nations and Metis Peoples and Justice Reform. It included the recommendations, - -. . .that representatives of the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations, Metis Nation – Saskatchewan, governments of Canada and Saskatchewan work together to develop an independent complaints investigation agency that will meet the needs of First Nations, Metis and non-Aboriginal people with the objective of having such an agency in place by April 1, 2005. - that the Implementation Commissioner monitor and oversee the establishment of a complaints agency that will reflect and respect the spirit and intent of the existing Special Investigations Unit.- - The Commission report, also highlighted the issue of racism by police services against Aboriginal people. Any review of the Saskatchewan police complaints process must consider the recommendations, - - . . .the implementation of a strategy to eliminate racism in policing by the Saskatchewan Police Commission. This strategy shall contain Police recruitment screening strategies specifically to prevent candidates with racist views on ethnic or religious groups from being offered employment. A complaints process that requires allegations of racist language or behaviour against individual officers to be reported to the officers’ immediate supervisor and the chief of police. An intensive remedial training program for police officers who exhibit racist attitudes. This program must be successfully completed to the satisfaction of the officer’s supervising officer and the program facilitator. The tools which would allow the immediate supervisor or chiefs of police to respond immediately to allegations of racism. A pro-active First Nation and Metis candidate recruitment strategy. Employment assistance counselling for First Nations and Metis candidates that will assist them with the pressures of working
within a police service that has traditionally been dominated by non-Aboriginal people.- -

July 5, 2004 - Politics and culture greeted hundreds of Metis who have gathered in Thunder Bay for the 11th annual general assembly of the Metis Nation of Ontario. A glimpse of what is going on there includes, - traditional Metis fiddling, the arrival of dignitaries by voyageur canoe, the raising of flags, double steppers dancing by Metis Jiggers, prayers, speeches, golf, horseshoes, archery - Metis Voyageur Games - Workshops on Snowshoe Making and Birch bark Canoe Making. . . and of course good eats - fried fish, bannock, smoked fish, beef on a bun, tacos. Serious business includes an update on Metis Rights Issues - Update on Supreme Court decision - update on Harvesting Negotiations between Metis Nation and Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. Metis Nation business includes the Constitution, Intergovernmental Relations - First Nations Protocol - Relations with Canadian Government departments of Human Resources Development, Health Canada, Privy Council Office, the Urban Aboriginal Strategy. Also of special interest this year, is a tribute to Metis rights fighter Steve Powley. The theme of the annual assembly is A Celebration of Powley, the Man and the Decision.

A large number of survivors of Indian Residential Schools is expected this week at the launch of the Aboriginal Healing Foundation Day of Commemoration. Aboriginal leaders from national organizations will join the Governor General Adrienne Clarkson on July 8th at the Shaw Conference Centre in Edmonton. The Foundation says two thousand survivors are expected to be there to hear from Governor General Adrienne Clarkson, Phil Fontaine, National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations, Dwight Dorey, ational Chief of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples, Kukdookaa Terri Brown, President of the Native Women’s Association of Canada, Clement Chartier, President of the Metis National Council and Jose A. Kusugak, President of the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami. - -The Day of Commemoration will provide an opportunity to recognize the resilience of residential school survivors from all over Canada and to honour their ongoing healing efforts.- - The Day of Commemoration will also showcase many AHF-funded healing initiatives through workshops, plenary presentations and through the AHF project information fair. - -Participants will be invited to share their own experiences in sharing circles and hear from those who developed their own strategies for dealing with the traumatic legacy of the residential school system.- - A series of workshops for AHF-funded projects will take place on July 9-10, 2004 that will bring together project staff from across Canada. The two-day event will allow practitioners from across the country to network, share and evaluate
best practices and discuss strategies to sustain residential school healing movement without continued government support.

July 4, 2004 - The Assembly of First Nations Renewal Commission was to hold a public hearing in Pelly Crossing, the Yukon on July 8th. However, forest fires in the immediate area have forced the postponement of this hearing. The Commission is holding public hearings across the country to listen to views and opinions on the following Key Questions - What can the AFN do to improve its representation and dynamism of First Nations and their citizens? - What can the AFN do to become more supportive of Urban First Nation citizens, groups and associations? - What can the AFN do to broaden its role to include all First Nation demographics? - What should the AFN keep, change, avoid, and create? / Ways to participate... - Public presentations during the hearing - Written submissions are accepted during the hearings and also by mail - Information about the AFN Renewal Commission, biographies of all Commissioners, and a schedule of events, are available at our website http:www.afn.ca/commission.htm

July 3, 2004 - Efforts are underway accross the country by police services to strengthen their relationship with First Nations youth. The initiative that began several years ago in British Columbia, has inspired similar events elsewhere. This summer, police and at risk teenagers from First Nation communities will team up for a five-day canoe trip through the Kawartha Lakes area of Ontario. In Peterborough, Ontario at the Canadian Canoe Museum on Monday July 5th, First Nation and police department representatives will hold a media day to promote their PULLING TOGETHER event - a canoe journey with police officers and First Nation Youth experiencing culture, ceremony and traditions in First Nations Communities throughout Peterborough and Northumberland Counties. The 100 kilometre journey starts July 26th, 2004 - from Curve Lake First Nation, which is located on Buckhorn Lake - ending at Alderville First Nation on Saturday July 31st, 2004. Pulling Together brings troubled youth together with law enforcement professionals in a wilderness adventure setting, and is supported by First Nation communities such as the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation that presented a $10,000 cheque to help fund the five-day canoe excursion. Participating in the event will be Durham Police, members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Ontario Provincial Police, Peterborough and Lakefield Police, the Anishinabek Police Service, and the Hiawatha First Nation Police Service.

July 2, 2004 - The Pulling Together Canoe Trip, an annual summer event builds relationships between First Nations youth and police officers. In British Columbia, Lower Mainland police officers, community leaders, Elders and youth from area First Nations participated in the annual one week journey along the Fraser River in canoes, that ended on Canada Day. This is their mission statement - -The 2004 Pulling Together Journey takes place along the Fraser River. It is a journey that not only takes place on the water, but is also within each pullers heart. Culture, ceremony and traditions of the Coast Salish First Nations are experienced throughout the journey. The Pulling Together experience builds relationships -bridging the gap- through communication and hard work, while paddling together. With a special focus on todays Youth, who are tomorrows Elders, the Journey is one of goodwill, cultural experience and learning, with the Fraser River being both the -teacher- and the -highway- travelled.- -

July 1, 2004 - Some Kwikwetlem First Nation people will be celebrating Canada Day by welcoming new Canadians at ceremonies in New Westminster, British Columbia. The day begins with the culmination of an event called Pulling Together Canoe Journey. RCMP, local Police Services, First Nations youth and Elders began paddling down the Fraser River on a five day canoe journey. The paddlers, in full regalia and police in dress uniforms, will arrive at the Westminster Quay at approximately 10:00 am. The First Nations Urban Community Society, their Elders, Council of Wisdom and community members along with City, Provincial and Federal officials will welcome the paddlers in a traditional welcoming ceremony at the Westminster Quay. From there, you can join the festivities in Queen’s Park which get underway at 11:00 am. Participants will be treated to an afternoon of entertainment featuring Juno Award winner Charlotte Diamond and her HugBug Band, First Nations Dancing and Drumming, a formal ceremony and a Friendship Circle where Kwikwetlem First Nation People will welcome new Canadians.

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