March 13th, 2010 - A 16 year old girl has been charged with murder in the stabbing death of 22-year-old Chris Owens of Little Grand Rapids First Nation, in Manitoba. Mounties responded to a complaint of a fight at a residence Friday and found Owens dead. Police say the victim and his accused killer knew each other. An autopsy was conducted today at the Winnipeg Health Sciences Centre and the cause of death was determined to be a stab wound to the chest. Alcohol is believed to have been involved in this incident.

At the Paralympics, the talent and skills of the Cheslatta Nation will be included - not on the ice, or the slopes or the competitions, but when the Paralympic champions celebrate - on a podium built from wood donated by the Cheslatta Community Forest. BC Minister of Forests and Range Pat Bell explained, "The podium tells the story of the Cheslatta Nation's resilience, entrepreneurship and success in creating employment and benefits through sustainable forest management." The podium is built of Lodgepole Pine harvested from the depths of the Nechako Reservoir. It will be used at the Whistler Paralympic Park for the following events: Saturday, March 20 10-11 a.m. Cross-Country Skiing, relay, all classes, women Saturday, March 20 12-1 p.m. Cross-Country Skiing, relay, all classes, men. The Cheslatta Nation manufactures lumber, canoe paddles and giftware from underwater wood.

March 12th, 2010 - "Until First Nations have control over First Nations citizenship we will continue to face problems." Assembly of First Nations National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo was commenting on Bill C-3, Gender Equity in Indian Registration Act, tabled in the House of Commons on Thursday. "It is fair and just that Indian status will be restored to those who lost it because of inequality in the Indian Act," National Chief Atleo said. "But the real problem is the Indian Act itself. The Government of Canada should not be able to decide who is and who is not a First Nation citizen. It is the right of any nation to identify its citizens and First Nations are no exception. We are calling on the federal government to work with us a on a broader approach that goes beyond these narrow amendments and deals with the real issues of First Nations citizenship." Bill C-3 is the federal response to the B.C. Court of Appeal McIvor decision. That decision ruled that sections of the Indian Act discriminate against women. The Court gave the government until April 6, 2010 to address the problem. The National Chief noted that this is a concern for First Nations because the deadline is fast-approaching and it is estimated that at least 45,000 people will be added to the Indian Registry under Bill C-3. "First Nations are concerned that there is very little information about the government's proposed approach, how it will be implemented and how First Nations governments will be expected to deal with it," the National Chief stated. "The federal government needs to start communicating immediately with First Nations governments about the impacts and implementation of this legislation. We should be working together now in the interests of all parties to ensure a smooth transition to the new system." The National Chief welcomed the Minister's comments indicating there will be a joint process to examine the broader issues related to First Nations citizenship. "This government has stated it will honour the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Recognizing the right of First Nations to determine identity and membership of their citizens is consistent with the Declaration. That should be our goal and we look forward to working with the government on a new and better approach."

BC Regional Chief Jody Wilson-Raybould welcomed the introduction of Bill C-3, Gender Equity in Indian Registration Act by the federal government but called on the government to take immediate steps to address broader issues of First Nations' jurisdiction over the determination of their own citizenship. Under Bill C-3, the eligible grandchildren of women who lost status as a result of marrying non-Indian men will become entitled to registration as status Indians in accordance with the Indian Act. This legislation has been introduced in response to a ruling by the BC Court of Appeal in the McIvor case, which involved a challenge to the Indian Act by Sharon McIvor and her son Jacob Grismer on the basis that the Act treats the descendants of Indian women and Indian men differently. The BC Court of Appeal ruled that sections 6(1)(a) and (c) of the Indian Act, which denied Indian status to the grandchildren of Indian women who lost their status as a result of marrying non-Indian men were of no force and effect. The Court gave the Government until April 6, 2010, to rectify the discrimination and amend the offending provisions. "I am pleased the federal government is proceeding with amendments to the Indian Act to address the Court's ruling regarding gender discrimination under sections 6(1)(a) and (c) of the Act" said Regional Chief Wilson-Raybould. "However, there remain many descendants of our respective Nations who are denied full participation in our communities due to the narrow and legalistic definition of who is an "Indian" under the Indian Act. This is not acceptable and the long-term solution does not lie in further tinkering with the Indian Act". "Our Nations have an inherent right to determine who is and who is not a Citizen of our Nations in accordance with our own laws, customs and traditions" added Chief Regional Chief Wilson-Raybould. "The long term solution to addressing ongoing discrimination in the Indian Act lies is the full recognition of First Nations' jurisdiction over their own citizenship. I call on the Government of Canada to recognize First Nations' jurisdiction over the determination of Citizenship in our respective Nations and to support the implementation of First Nations' Citizenship laws." She continued, "Section 35(1) of the Constitution Act protects the Aboriginal and Treaty rights of First Nations' peoples which includes the right to determine our own Citizenship. This basic right is affirmed in Article 33 of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples which states, "Indigenous peoples have the right to determine their own identity or membership in accordance with their customs and traditions." Canada anticipates that approximately 45,000 additional persons will become entitled to registration under the Indian Act if Bill C-3 is enacted. "While the work continues to ensure that our Nations can determine their own Citizenship, including the rights and responsibilities of their Citizens, the addition of 45,000 persons added to the Indian Register under the Indian Act system will inevitably create pressures on the existing resources of First Nations' communities to provide federal programs and services," stated Regional Chief Wilson-Raybould. "In order to facilitate a smooth and responsible implementation of Bill C-3, it is essential that adequate resources be made available to First Nations to avoid any further hardship in First Nations' communities."

Response to the Government of Canada introducing legislation to amend Section 6(1) of the Indian Act that pertains to the definition and eligibility of status of First Nations people under the Indian Act."Friendship Centre doors are open to assist people in applying for their status under the Indian Act," remarked National Association of Friendship Centres (NAFC) President Vera Pawis Tabobondung. "But more importantly, we are here to foster a deeper cultural identity in urban Aboriginal people. For so long now, a lot of our clients have been in limbo when it comes to an Aboriginal identity that is rightfully theirs. We hope this is the first step in ultimate reconciliation". Early Government of Canada estimates show that with this new legislation, more than 45,000 people will now be eligible for status under the Indian Act. The NAFC anticipates that a great portion of these people will reside in urban areas. "Statistics show that approximately half of the First Nations population reside off-reserve," noted NAFC Executive Director Peter Dinsdale. "First Nations people who were not entitled to Indian Status under the Indian Act were generally not entitled to reside on reserve lands, and subsequently cannot access certain health and education benefits. In light of this, the NAFC anticipates that a vast number of people eligible for Indian Status will reside in urban areas and will reach out to Friendship Centres for assistance." "Although this amendment will resolve a number of Indian Act registration issues, it also raises questions regarding broader issues of identity and finding one's place in Aboriginal society. Despite the litany of challenges that we will face as a result of this amendment, Friendship Centres are determined to use this as an opportunity to further define and strengthen our nationhood."

March 11th, 2010 - Halalt First Nation Road blockade down on Chemainus Road. Traffic was moving through Halalt First Nation on Chemainus Road on Thursday morning for the first time in two weeks. That happened after the Halalt community met on Wednesday evening and agreed to take down its blockade. Chief James Thomas said his community members made the move after hearing about a two-hour meeting between Halalt, the provincial government and the Municipality of North Cowichan that afternoon. "We accomplished what we set out to do," Chief Thomas said of the agreement that all parties will again meet with ten days to start discussions on a watershed management plan around the Chemainus River. "We acted quickly and in good faith," he said of the removal of the blockade. "But if North Cowichan doesn't move forward, the blockade goes back up." North Cowichan council will meet at 8:30 a.m. on Friday, March 12 to consider its next steps. Chief Thomas said he hopes the a comprehensive study and plan for the Chemainus River watershed will be part of a process that will see Halalt, North Cowichan and other stakeholders working together to resolve issues. "A watershed plan will have to address things like North Cowichan's official community plan and how growth and development impacts the water supply, our fisheries and the entire ecosystem." He said Halalt remains firm in its demand that the First Nation always has its hands on the tap when it comes to North Cowichan pumping water from the aquifer to supply the town of Chemainus. Wednesday's agreement included a phased approach to watershed management by developing an agenda that focuses on areas of concern within Halalt's traditional territory that also lies within North Cowichan's boundaries. The discussions will not address matters that are the subject of Halalt's judicial review application in BC's Supreme Court regarding the environmental assessment certificate for the Chemainus River aquifer wells project.

Indian Affairs is changing the Indian Act to redefine Indian Status. The federal government says the proposed Legislation will "Bolster Gender Equity In the Registration Provisions of the Indian Act". Minister of Indian Affairs Chuck Strahl introduced in the House of Commons Bill C-3, Gender Equity in Indian Registration Act. "This legislation provides an excellent opportunity to address longstanding gender discrimination related to Indian registration," said Minister Strahl. "I urge my parliamentary colleagues to work with us to move the bill forward quickly to end this inequality." Spurred by a civil lawsuit filed by Sharon McIvor and her son Jacob Grismer, the Court of Appeal for British Columbia ruled on April 6, 2009 that the Indian Act discriminates between men and women with respect to registration as an Indian, and therefore violates the equality provision of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The Court gave the Government until April 6, 2010 to amend those provisions. If enacted by Parliament, Bill C-3 will ensure that eligible grand-children of women who lost status as a result of marrying non-Indian men will become entitled to registration (Indian status) in accordance with the Indian Act. No one will lose their Indian status as a result of these amendments. There are some big unanswered questions associated with the proposed changes to the Indian Act, including will the government provide additional funding to First Nations to provide services to the new members. However, as significant is the question about First Nations right to decide their own membership. "I am aware that there are a number of broader issues related to the question of registration and membership, and important treaty realities and cultural perspectives that must be taken into account," said the Minister. "However, these issues are complex, and broader reform on these matters cannot be done overnight or in isolation." The Minister announced that these broader issues would be explored through a joint process to be developed in conjunction with various national Aboriginal organizations and the participation of First Nations groups and individuals across the country. Q1. Who will benefit from the new legislation? All eligible grandchildren of women who lost status as a result of marrying non-Indian men will become entitled to registration (Indian status) in accordance with the Indian Act. Q2. What are those eligibility requirements? You should consult the web site of Indian and Northern Affairs Canada for the specific eligibility criteria. http://www.ainc-inac.gc.ca/br/is/elig-eng.asp Generally speaking, the key criteria to be newly entitled to registration are: Did your grandmother lose her Indian status as a result of marrying a non-Indian? Is one of your parents registered, or entitled to be registered, under sub-section 6(2) of the Indian Act? Were you born on or after September 4, 1951?

"Racism in education typically denied, ignored and trivialized" according to a major study of the professional knowledge and experience of Aboriginal teachers in Canadian public schools. The study was commissioned by the Canadian Teachers' Federation and includes this finding, "Feeling that racism in education was typically denied, ignored and trivialized, the Aboriginal teachers in this study described various ways in which they experienced racism. They reported on some occasions a disregard for their qualifications and capabilities, and for Aboriginal content and perspectives; a lowering of expectations of Aboriginal students; and a discounting of the effects of colonization and oppression on Aboriginal people. Institutional responses to racism were often seen as inadequate, leaving the burden for addressing racism on Aboriginal teachers". Author of the study Verna St. Denis, PhD, associate professor at the University of Saskatchewan's College of Education explained, "The rationale for the study was to address the urgent need to improve and promote Aboriginal education in public schools. . . It asks the question: What can we learn from the professional knowledge and experiences of Aboriginal teachers who teach in public schools about how to better promote and support the success of Aboriginal students?" The study interviewed 59 Aboriginal teachers (49 female and 10 male) teaching in public schools across Canada. More than one third had 20 or more years of teaching experience, and half were graduates of Aboriginal programs, including Aboriginal teacher education programs. "The continuing goal of the study is to promote ongoing dialogue and learning about Aboriginal education within teacher organizations and the broader educational community," explains CTF President Mary-Lou Donnelly. "Study participants identified several ways to support the integration of Aboriginal curriculum in the school system, including the acquisition of Aboriginal curriculum and materials, adequate support for the teaching of Aboriginal content and perspectives, supportive and understanding school administrators, the acceptance of Aboriginal teachers as fellow professionals, and the hiring of more Aboriginal teachers and professionals. Among the report's other findings: The Aboriginal teachers in this study remained in the profession because they valued the opportunity to teach Aboriginal culture and history, to foster responsible citizens, to challenge negative stereotypes of Aboriginal people, to serve as role models, and because they believed they could have a positive impact on children; Participants highly valued those non-Aboriginal colleagues who accepted them as equal, helping them to succeed and offering validation for the work and perspective they as Aboriginal teachers brought to the profession; Although these Aboriginal teachers encountered a variety of adverse circumstances - such as a lack of Aboriginal curriculum materials, misunderstandings of Aboriginal education by their colleagues, challenging social and political conditions in the schools and the communities, or the effects of poverty on students -they remained committed to making a difference in education.

While visiting the Dene community of Lac Brochet in northern Manitoba this week, Assembly of First Nations National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo issued the following statement calling for action to address Tuberculosis in First Nations communities. "Tuberculosis is reaching a high level in many of our communities, such as in Lac Brochet. Figures for 2008, which were recently released by the Public Health Agency of Canada show that, nation-wide, rates of tuberculosis among First Nations are 31 times higher than others born in Canada. Overcrowded housing, poor nutrition, a lack of access to water and poor access to healthcare contribute to the spread of this disease. Many of these same issues caused First Nations to be vulnerable to the H1N1 virus last Spring. If there's a lesson to be learned from last year's H1N1 crisis, it is that we cannot return to business as usual. Addressing tuberculosis will require First Nations-led economic solutions, improved housing, expanded access to treatment and improved tracking of cases and underlying causes." The National Chief added that he was also touched by the stories of elder Catherine Moise, and her daughter Lizette of Lac Brochet, both survivors of tuberculosis, who spoke Wednesday at a Press Conference in Ottawa. "Catherine's story is one of sadness and loss. She has lost one daughter to tuberculosis and two of her other children, now grown, have also suffered from the disease. I thank Catherine and Lizette for travelling to Ottawa and courageously sharing their stories. A specific plan to address the social determinants of health and increased resources for implementing comprehensive and effective TB control are both essential. One without the other will continue to fuel the disease."

The tuberculosis rate among Inuit has doubled in the past four years - to 185 times the rate of Canadian-born non-aboriginals - at a time when the national rate is declining, according to 2008 figures recently made public by the Public Health Agency of Canada. This compares with an Inuit rate 90 times higher than the non-aboriginal, Canadian-born population as recently as 2004. "Behind the high results are significant disparities in the health of Inuit and other Canadians and inequity in access to health care. It is unconscionable that these conditions exist in a country that boasts of having one of the lowest TB rates in the world," said Gail Turner, chair of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami's National Inuit Committee on Health. The root causes of these elevated rates lie partly in historically high exposure during TB waves in the 1940s, '50s and '60s. Aboriginal peoples lacked a natural resistance and the burden of disease was high. Many were removed from their communities and sent to urban centres for treatment. Some never returned, creating a legacy of fear among those left behind that endures to this day. Add to that co-morbidities, such as HIV and diabetes, which increase the risk that significant occurrences of latent TB will progress to full-blown tuberculosis. "Overcrowded housing, poor nutrition and lack of access to health care contribute to the higher rates of this disease among First Nations - many of the same conditions that made First Nations communities especially vulnerable to the spread of H1N1 last year," said Chief Angus Toulouse, who holds the national portfolio for health at the Assembly of First Nations. "Addressing these issues will require First Nations-led economic solutions, expanded access to treatment and improved tracking of cases and underlying causes." In the Arctic and in many First Nations communities, housing is a major contributor. Often entire families are forced to live in a single bedroom, while mold is rampant in houses built to construction standards that are ill suited for the climate. Immune systems are compromised by a general lack of healthy, affordable food. A shortage of health care providers in remote communities further challenges the ability to manage TB and be proactive in elimination strategies.Turner added, "It is imperative that a separate strategy be created now for Inuit, one that is created with Inuit and embraces solutions that are culturally acceptable and based on our realities. TB will never be eliminated until housing is improved, food security is improved and access to health care for Inuit is closer to what other Canadians take for granted."

March 10th, 2010 - "As much as the world has changed for indigenous people in good ways, there are still many violent and hateful folks out there who seek to harm us, and we must condemn them in print and in action, and we must do this together." The renowned Native American author and playwright Sherman Alexie was commenting on a recent hate crime against First Nations and Native American youth. The advertisement headlined "Free Native Extraction Service" was placed on the UsedWinnipeg.com website. Referring to Native youth, it began: "Have you ever had the experience of getting home to find those pesky little buggers hanging outside your home, in the back alley or on the corner???" It goes on to offer "free extraction services to relocate them to their habitat," and continues with other offensive remarks. A Winnipeg mother who was searching the web site for a television for her child discovered the ad and asked Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Grand Chief Harper to address it. Grand Chief Harper was shocked when he was made aware of the hate advertisement found on the popular Manitoba website-UsedWinnipeg.com. The Grand Chief stated,"This is a hate crime and the ad should have never made it to the website in the first place, the people who own and operate UsedWinnipeg.com must be held accountable and guarantee better screening processes are in place so something like this won't happen again. We will be asking the police to treat this as hate crime and to investigate further". Regarding the young Native men pictured in the offensive ad Grand Chief David Harper said,"The Aboriginal Youth in the photo have been unnecessarily victimized and we will not tolerate it, this is a reality that we see far too often as First Nation People". Longhouse Media Executive Director Tracy Rector today condemned the illegal use of a copyrighted photo of three teenagers from the Swinomish, Grand Ronde, and Lummi Tribes in Washington that was used in the hate crime. "We are appalled by the use of our image for such hateful and demeaning purposes," said Rector, responding the advertisement. "The photo of the three adolescent boys was taken from promotional material for our film March Point, an award-winning documentary," said Rector. "The film was made with three young filmmakers and tells the story of their coming of age struggles in a Native American community in the U.S. That this image would be used for such deviant ends is deeply hurtful to these young men and their families, and to the Native community as a whole." "We condemn this as a hate crime, and will join with others to see the perpetrators are brought to justice," said Rector. "This ad could intimidate and incite violence against indigenous youth in North America, and we are joining with Manitoba Chiefs to call for an end to hate crimes such as these. We must all stand together to protect our youth." Chairman Brian Cladoosby of the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community said, "We are saddened by the fact that some people still harbor extreme hatred toward Native people as this advertisement demonstrates. But we are also encouraged that many more people recognize this as a racist attack on a generation of Native American youth who for the most part are law-abiding citizens striving to overcome generations of poverty and oppression, and live productive lives. We hope that calmer heads prevail and that the individuals responsible for posting this ad are prosecuted to the full extent of the law." While not an act of physical violence, it is one of intimidation and threat. According to the Criminal Code of Canada, "a hate crime is committed to intimidate, harm or terrify not only a person, but an entire group of people to which the victim belongs. The victims are targeted for who they are, not because of anything they have done. Hate crimes involve intimidation, harassment, physical force or threat of physical force against a person, a family or a property." Section 319(1): Public Incitement of Hatred, Criminal Code of Canada

Ontario Regional Chief Angus Toulouse responded with disappointment to the Ontario government's "Open Ontario" Throne Speech describing it as a five year plan without a genuine commitment to work with First Nations on issues beyond consultation and economic development."The Speech made a general statement about promoting economic development and consultation with Aboriginal people --- this statement fails to commit Ontario to act. Simply claiming that you will promote an idea is not a commitment to act", said Chief Toulouse. He expressed concern that the momentum gained following the 2007 release of the Ipperwash Report has been lost. "It appears that our relationship with the Ontario government has become stagnant or worse, may actually have gone backwards", stated Chief Toulouse. "We need to take a hard look at what has actually been accomplished since the release of the Ipperwash Inquiry Final Report almost three years ago. The government called the Ipperwash Report a positive road map for progress. But progress is not measured by process, announcements or empty words --- it is measured by results", said Chief Toulouse. He expressed frustration with the inability or unwillingness of the government of Ontario to take concrete steps to establish a real government to government relationship with First Nations especially on matters related to consultation and jurisdiction. He indicated that the government of Ontario unilaterally developed consultation guidelines in 2006 which were unanimously rejected by First Nations in Ontario. Furthermore, the overall 2005 Government of Ontario Policy on Aboriginal Peoples entitled "Ontario's New Approach to Aboriginal Affairs" is old. These remain in place with no plan to reconcile First Nations and Government of Ontario government to government relations. The Chief pointed to these as examples of where there has been no substantive progress. "How First Nations are consulted and accommodated is integral to our relationship with government and industry as is the issue of the mutual recognition and respect for inter-governmental relations. It should not been surprising to anyone if we continue to see frustration in our communities if these fundamental issues are not addressed", said Chief Toulouse. The decision to harmonize the provincial retail sales tax with the federal goods and services tax is another contentious issue between First Nations and government that also remains unaddressed. "Once again both levels of government failed to consult with First Nations prior to this decision. The frustration that this decision has resulted in could have been avoided", stated the Chief. He indicated that Ontario publicly committed in the 2007 Throne Speech to work with First Nations "with respect and collaboration to improve the quality of life and expand economic opportunities for Aboriginal peoples" but we are yet to see significant progress toward this stated goal. Some positive progress was made when the Mining Act was amended but it remains a work in progress and does not seem to be have impacted practice on the ground. The Chief pointed out that the government was under significant pressure to act in amending the Mining Act due in part to disputes like the Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug and Platinex issue but now that things have settled somewhat it appears that the old way of doing business is creeping back into practice on the ground. "The current dispute involving the development in the Ring of Fire demonstrates that First Nations interests are still not being properly dealt with. The right words are being said but where is the evidence and commitment to doing things differently?", stated Chief Toulouse. He said the way forward to achieving real progress requires a true collaboration, built on respect, between the Government of Ontario and First Nations governments. This collaboration must reflect the government to government relationship backed up by a clear plan that includes commitments for action with measurable outcomes.

March 9th, 2010 - "It causes me and everyone great concern," stated Assembly of First Nations national chief Shawn Atleo, as he spoke out about the federal budget that does not include funding for the Aboriginal Healing foundation (AHF). The AFN leader promised to press Canada to work jointly with the AFN on a Plan of Action to address key issues incuding, "to make sure the AHF is supported". His commitment came during a teleconference briefing with Aboriginal media Monday, including Turtle Island Native Network. The national chief explained why he will push for AHF funding, "We know when we listen to the AHF talk of the success of their programs, and the fact it takes at least ten years and sound, solid work with our people in our communities, to support the healing from overcoming the effects and the trauma of the residential school period". On the topic of Canada offering qualified support for the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, the AFN leader made it clear "there is no appetite for compromise. The Declaration stands as a minimal, acceptable standard and we expect that the government will move to endorse the Declaration as other States have done, and that we would take steps to work with government - First Nations government and federal government to implement its articles. . . The whole principal of the Declaration is the idea of jointly working to not only see it endorsed as First Nations have done all across our territories, but for the government to do the same. . . based on the Declaration's principals which are clearly outlined - full partnership, respect and inclusion. . . I'm still very hopeful that we'll move very quickly and have this accomplished before summer."

March 8th, 2010 - As International Women's Week begins, Assembly of First Nations National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo and Women's Council Chair Kathleen McHugh, expressed hope that commitments made in last week's Speech from the Throne and federal budget will lead to a National Action Plan which can begin to address the issue of missing and murdered Indigenous women. "I was encouraged by the commitment of the federal government to take steps to endorse the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, which includes specific mention of the need for states to work with Indigenous peoples to ensure that indigenous women and children enjoy the full protection and guarantees against all forms of violence and discrimination," said National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo. "I am further encouraged that the commitments made in the budget mean that that Indigenous women and leaders are finally being heard on this serious issue." More than 500 Indigenous women and girls have gone missing or been murdered since the 1960s. The Assembly of First Nations has joined national and international Indigenous and human rights groups in calling on governments in Canada to develop an inclusive process that will lead to a National Action Plan to address this issue. While the federal budget did not specify how it will invest the $10M dollars committed over the next two years, the AFN expressed hope that the federal government is signaling it is now ready to work toward meaningful and concrete actions that will bring clear focus, attention and resolution to this issue. "Gaps in human rights and the justice system have allowed perpetrators to remain free and cases to remain unsolved. This is a national issue that requires a national plan to protect Indigenous women and girls," said AFN Women's Council Chair Kathleen McHugh. "We want to work toward developing a plan that will help police and the justice systems become more responsive, increase the number of shelters, improve better victim services, and launch specific programs to assist women who have been trafficked. We also need to address the social and economic gaps which trap Indigenous women in high-risk situations." Chair McHugh added that there is also a need to improve public awareness and accountability by collecting and publishing comprehensive national statistics on rates of violent crime against Indigenous women. The AFN and AFN Women's Council have also recommended the creation of a non-partisan joint Parliamentary committee bringing together membership and resources from existing committees including Justice, Status of Women, the Aboriginal Affairs committee and Public Safety to study the issue. In 1977, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution calling on member states to proclaim a day for women's rights and international peace. Following the United Nations' lead, March 8 marks International Women's Day in Canada and the beginning of International Women's week. The week is dedicated to celebrating progress toward equality for women, to reflect on the challenges and barriers that remain, and consider future steps to achieving equality for all women, in all aspects of their lives.

March 7th, 2010 - "We welcome you into our traditional homelands, our traditional territories . . ." Turtle Island Native Network was there, as Esquimalt First Nation Chief Andy Thomas and his wife - Elder Mary Ann Thomas greeted the hundreds of people who gathered to welcome the Paralympic Torch Relay on Vancouver Island . . . Chief Thomas said, "First of all I want to welcome and acknowledge all of the hereditary chiefs, chiefs, elders, friends, dignitaries, all the athletes for the Paralympics that are going to be competing next week . . . Over the past few weeks watching the Olympics sparked a big fire in this whole country. I think it's one of the biggest opportunities our people clear across - from coast to coast to be involved in a ceremony like this that begins, and lights that little fire and in the Olympic athletes - to be able to give them the strength to face those challenges - what it's going to take to bring the gold home. (loud cheers from the crowd) I wish all the athletes well - good games - strong games." "It's really an honour to be part of this today, at the beginning, in the Coast Salish territory because I know the Coast Salish Nations are proud supporters of all the activities that have taken place today - over the past few weeks - the first nations olympic village. I hope that this is just the beginning. I really thank each and every one of you for coming out today to support the olympic athletes. Hychka!" Mary Ann Thomas: "I'm here to share a prayer with all the brothers and sisters and all the beautiful flowers - our children. A real special day today for the torch, and the heroes. We are all heroes from the Creator and it's really beautiful to have the torch to bring us all together - and this is the way it should be every day because we need each other. You and I are the role models for our children." (prayer in her language) "To all our brothers and sisters, I asked the creator to shine a light on each and every one, especially the children. I thank you for being here to make it complete because we all have this day to be celebrating . . .Hychka!" Calvin George of Songhees carried the lantern for the flame to be lighted on the stage. Chief Thomas said he was also representing Songhees Chief Robert Sam who was unable to attend this gathering on the shared territory of the Esquimalt and Songhees First Nations. Amelia Thomas with husband Steve and daughter Esther were there to support daughter Veronica Thomas who was a Parlympic torchbearer Saturday. See exclusive photos here http://www.turtleisland.org/discussion/viewtopic.php?p=11090#p11090

March 6th, 2010 - Despite a nationwide petition campaign of support, the Canadian Government has decided not to continue funding the Aboriginal Healing Foundation. The AHF Board of Directors acknowledged Canada's decision not to provide funds to the Aboriginal Healing Foundation in the 2010 Federal Budget. A news release explained this decision by the Federal Government means that a nation-wide network of one hundred and thirty-four community-based healing initiatives will no longer have AHF support after March 31, 2010, when current funds run out. Aboriginal Healing Foundation President, Georges Erasmus, noted that "Budget 2010 commits $199 million to mental health and emotional support services for former students and their families - money which will go to Health Canada for Government-run programs. It is good that there is support in the budget for Survivors. This budget does cast a dark shadow however over the good and effective work being done in Aboriginal communities, by Aboriginal people, to address the destructive residential school legacy and to create healthier, stronger communities." Concerning the future, he added, "Without additional funds, community services will disappear at the end of this month, and the Aboriginal Healing Foundation will have no recourse but to wind down its operations. Our first priority now is to inform our funded projects of this news and to support them as they close." The Aboriginal Healing Foundation is a not-for-profit, Aboriginal managed national funding agency which encourages and supports community-based healing efforts addressing the intergenerational legacy of physical and sexual abuse in Canada's Indian Residential School System. Currently, 134 community projects are funded across Canada. Between 1892 and 1969, the Indian Residential School System operated across Canada through a partnership of the Federal Government and various church entities. Under federal law, Aboriginal children were institutionalized in hostels, industrial schools, and residential schools for the purposes of Christianization and assimilation. On June 11, 2008, the Prime Minister of Canada issued a formal apology for the Federal Government's role in the Indian Residential School System. As part of the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement, an Indian Residential Schools Truth and Reconciliation Commission has been established to undertake a nationwide, five-year truth-telling and reconciliation process.

March 5th, 2010 - Responding to the federal Budget - Assembly of First Nations National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo stated, "This budget falls short of what is needed, but we do have commitments we can build on," the National Chief stated. "I am hopeful that we work together in the spirit of the UN Declaration to move an agenda for change that will benefit First Nations and all Canadians. But we must start now if we are going to see change tomorrow. . . The federal budget definitely falls short of the targets we had set out to improve the situation of First Nations, but we do want to see the federal government move quickly on the commitments to work with us on critical reforms to education which must ultimately translate into more investment. . .The government announced in the Speech from the Throne that it would endorse the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and we fully expect to work with the government based on the Declaration's principles of partnership, respect and inclusion." The federal budget included resources to implement education agreements, a commitment to achieve "comparable" education outcomes for First Nations students and to ensure that they receive the support they need to receive a post-secondary education. National Chief Atleo stated: "The commitment to comparable education outcomes for First Nations students is welcome and necessary. We set a target of graduating 65,000 First Nations post-secondary students within five years, which would bring us up to the Canadian average. We will not achieve that based on this budget but we do have a door open to dialogue and, if we work together as stated in the Speech from the Throne, we may be able to achieve these targets with future budgets. Chiefs have called for current post-secondary funding to be reviewed and strengthened. We do not want to see the program simply transferred to another department nor do we want to see changes that eliminate the critical role of First Nations in this program. We are ready to fully engage on this dialogue with a focus on our students." The National Chief acknowledged the commitment in the budget to take action to address violence against Aboriginal women: "The plight of missing and murdered Aboriginal women is an important issue and we want to see a National Action Plan developed jointly with the federal government to address this tragic and unacceptable situation." The National Chief also noted the renewals of critical programs in health, such as health human resources, youth suicide prevention, maternal health as well as child and family services. The National Chief noted that there is already an existing human rights complaint regarding the inadequacy of funding levels for First Nations child and family services and that funding is necessary to support efforts in every province and territory. "We must ensure that First Nations - especially First Nations youth - are not forgotten, that they do not fall further behind and that we achieve our targets," National Chief said. "What is really needed is a guarantee that health and education spending for First Nations will be stable and sustainable. This is a guarantee enjoyed by all Canadians except First Nations. We must implement a more fair and equitable approach." The Budget also contained a commitment to extend the funding on water and waste water, which will help First Nations continue to address water quality issues. Recent reports indicate that there are at least 48 First Nations communities dealing with high risk drinking water and 120 communities under drinking water advisories. This trend appears to be rising. "It is clear and well-understood that our communities desperately need critical infrastructure investments. We saw this in 2009 when funding for infrastructure was announced. Some were struggling to find shovel-ready projects but First Nation communities were ready to go right away. This sends a clear message: Work with us. The needs are great but we can get the job done," the National Chief said. The National Chief also commented on the resources allocated to address the legacy of the residential schools: "As we look forward we must also remember our history, and this is especially true of residential schools survivors. The resources in this do not specifically reference the Aboriginal Healing Foundation. This concerns us because the Foundation delivers critical programming to help survivors right at the community level. This work is needed now because the Truth and Reconciliation Commission is underway and survivors will be telling their often-times painful stories. I am going to seek clarification and will press for continuation of these important supports." The National Chief stated that he will seek a meeting as soon as possible with the federal government and Minister of Indian Affairs to discuss a plan of action to implement the budget commitments and to work on other matters in the spirit of partnership and mutual respect articulated in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

The Canadian Diabetes Association and the National Aboriginal Diabetes Association applaud the federal government for its decision to renew the Aboriginal Diabetes Initiative (ADI). "Now community healthcare providers can get on with the job of providing the very important services that they do for our Aboriginal communities," said Dina Bruyere, Executive Director, National Aboriginal Diabetes Association. "All that remains to be confirmed is the exact level of funding specifically allocated to the ADI over the next two years." While the government has given every indication that funding for the next two years will be at the same level as 2009-2010, this was not specifically confirmed in the budget announcement. The budget simply notes that the programs have been renewed, and provides a global funding figure for all five programs. Specific funding allocations for the ADI are expected to be confirmed soon. "We are pleased that the federal government has listened to our concerns and made the decision to renew this very important initiative," said Ellen Malcolmson, President and CEO, Canadian Diabetes Association. "Without the government's support more than 600 programs supporting Canadian Aboriginals living with diabetes would be at risk. We are confident that these programs can continue their very important work." Funding for the Aboriginal Diabetes Initiative, which was first announced in 2005, had been set to expire on March 31, 2010. The 2010 budget will allocate $285 million over two years for a range of health programs for Aboriginal Canadians, including the ADI, the Aboriginal Youth Suicide Prevention Strategy, maternal and child health, the Aboriginal Health Human Resources Initiative, and the Aboriginal Health Transition Fund.

Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) Grand Chief Stan Beardy says there is not enough support in the Budget for First Nations infrastructure. "Although there are some positive aspects of this year's budget, we were hoping for more financial support in capital infrastructure to help our communities... We have roughly five-thousand homes in NAN territory alone that need to be built or renovated. Improvements also need to be made to many of our schools and roads. Any federal funding will be spread among First Nation communities across Canada therefore our infrastructure crisis won't begin to be addressed." A news released noted that NAN communities also face several ongoing issues affecting their quality of life including high unemployment rates, lack of adequate health care, high suicide rates and lack of quality education. Beardy says the budget will not address those issues either. "We understand that Canada is dealing with tough economic times however, even in the best of times First Nations are living in third-world conditions. . .It seems we are always at the bottom of the federal government's priorities as we constantly feel the brunt of financial cutbacks. This budget will do little to close the gap between our First Nations and the Canadian society."

The federal budget fails to address the significant gap in post-secondary participation between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal peoples. "Education is critical to breaking the cycle of poverty," said Jaden Keitlah, Chairperson of the National Aboriginal Caucus of the Canadian Federation of Students. "Each year underfunding shuts out thousands of qualified Aboriginal students from college and university." The federal government currently provides financial assistance to status First Nations and Inuit students through the Post-Secondary Student Support Program (PSSSP). Despite Aboriginal peoples being the fastest growing demographic in Canada and virtually across the board tuition fee increases, funding for the program has been capped at 2% growth per year. As a result, thousands of eligible Aboriginal students have been unable to afford to attend college and university. In addition, non-status First Nations and Metis students are currently ineligible for funding through the PSSSP. "Funding disbursed through the PSSSP has a proven track record for those who can access it," added Keitlah. "The cost of sitting idly by will far exceed the cost of meeting our treaty obligations to provide access to education for Aboriginal peoples." The National Aboriginal Caucus has called for the 2% cap on PSSSP funding to be lifted since it was first implemented in 1996. In its budget submission the Caucus called for the cap to be lifted, funding to be provided to students who had been denied in previous years and eligibility to be extended to Metis and non-status First Nations learners. Founded in 1981, the Canadian Federation of Students is Canada's largest student organisation, uniting more that one-half million students from ten provinces. The National Aboriginal Caucus is the voice for Aboriginal students in Canada with members on campuses from St. John's to Victoria.

March 4th, 2010 - First Nations are mentioned in the 2010 Canadian Budget. It provides support for First Nations child and family services, continues to address the legacy of residential schools and takes action to address violence against Aboriginal women. Here is what is said - Making Further Improvements to First Nations Child and Family Services In 2007, the Government launched a prevention-focused approach to child and family services to ensure that more First Nations children and parents get the help they need to prevent crises that lead to family breakdown. Beginning with Alberta in 2007, the Government has signed tripartite agreements with First Nations partners and Nova Scotia, Saskatchewan, Quebec and Prince Edward Island. Budget 2010 commits $53 million over two years in order to ensure further progress. Addressing the Legacy of Residential Schools In 2005, an historic and unprecedented settlement agreement was reached between the Government of Canada and religious and Aboriginal organizations to address the legacy of Indian residential schools. Budget 2006 provided support for the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement, including payments to former students. Funding needs under the agreement have exceeded expectations. Recognizing this, Budget 2010 commits an additional $199 million over the next two years to ensure that necessary mental health and emotional support services continue to be provided to former students and their families, and that payments to former students are made in a timely and effective manner. The Government is committed to ensuring that all women in Canada, including Aboriginal women, are safe and secure regardless of the community in which they live. Aboriginal women remain particularly vulnerable to violence and can face challenges in accessing the justice system, which should be protecting them. Budget 2010 invests $10 million over two years to address the disturbingly high number of missing and murdered Aboriginal women. Concrete actions will be taken to ensure that law enforcement and the justice system meet the needs of Aboriginal women and their families. The Minister of Justice will announce details in the coming months." Also of interest in the 2010 Budget - Health initiatives include $285 million over the next two years for renewal of five Aboriginal health programs, such as the Aboriginal Diabetes Initiative, a suicide prevention strategy for Aboriginal youth, and maternal and child health programs. $330 million to extend the First Nations Water and Wastewater Action Plan - water and infrastructure projects in First Nations communities are being renewed for over the next two years. $30 million to support an implementation-ready tripartite K-12 education agreement that will ensure First Nations students benefit from comparable education results whether the classroom is located on or off reserve.

Aboriginal Canadians were front and centre in February for the 2010 Olympics and they are once again, for the Paralympic Winter Games this month. During a special ceremony in Ottawa Wednesday, the Paralympic Flame was ignited and blessed by Aboriginal firekeepers of the Pikwakanagan and Kitigan Zibi Algonquin First Nations on Victoria Island, their traditional territory. It was then placed in a lantern and brought to the Parliament Buildings where it was passed to three youth representatives from the Assembly of First Nations, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and Metis National Council. They in turn brought the trio of flames to the stage located on Parliament Hill's historic front lawn where Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson, Whistler Mayor Ken Melamed and Squamish Nation Chief Gibby Jacob, on behalf of the Four Host First Nations, reunited the flames in the Paralympic Cauldron. Among the torchbearers - Aboriginal dance champion, volunteer, athlete and coach, Justine Belair was selected as a representative of Canada's Aboriginal communities. To start each day of the relay, a new Paralympic Flame will be created by members of the local Aboriginal community, in accordance with their customs, wherever the daily torch relay celebration is taking place. For example, when the Paralympic relay visits Vancouver Island, the Flame will be created in a First Nations ceremony in Esquimalt on the morning of Saturday, March 6. This will be part of the celebration and relay hosted by the Township of Esquimalt and CFB Esquimalt, in partnership with the Songhees and Esquimalt First Nations who will provide a traditional welcome.

March 3, 2010 - Assembly of First Nations National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo said he is encouraged by Canada's commitment to endorse the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples as stated in today's Speech from the Throne. "First Nations leaders and citizens across the country have been united in our call for Canada to sign-on to the United Nations Declaration," National Chief Atleo said. "We have taken this message to every audience throughout Canada and around the world, and today we are encouraged that Canada has listened. This commitment offers the potential for real, transformational change in the relationship between First Nations and Canada." The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, passed in 2007, is an expression of the fundamental principles that should guide the relationship between governments and indigenous peoples. National Chief Atleo stated: "The UN Declaration and its principles of reconciliation and partnership can guide all the other important work referenced in the Speech from the Throne. It will set the parameters for full respectful engagement and mutually acceptable resolution on the matters of citizenship, land, property and water rights and regulation," National Chief Atleo said. "The commitment to work with us hand-in-hand to reform and strengthen education responds to our call to work together to generate hope and opportunity for our youth. The Government has also made a very important commitment to taking action on the critical issue of missing and murdered women in our communities." The National Chief noted that First Nations across the country will be watching the federal budget tomorrow to see whether there will be additional detail and investments referenced to turn commitments into action. First Nations are concerned about possible cutbacks to existing programs and services and want to ensure there is opportunity to build on the momentum from today's positive Speech from the Throne. "The Winter Olympics demonstrated that the principles of recognition and respect create the right foundation for real partnerships that produce innovation and shared benefits for everyone involved," the National Chief said. "This is the way forward. This is consistent with our Treaties and our original relationship. This indeed could lead to a stronger Canada. Today, we take the next step forward on the long journey to reconciliation and opportunity for our people, and for Canada to fulfill its tremendous potential."

The Canadian Government is going to endorse the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. The announcement was part of the Speech From the Throne delivered by the Governor General to start a new session of parliament. "We are a country with an Aboriginal heritage. A growing number of states have given qualified recognition to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Our Government will take steps to endorse this aspirational document in a manner fully consistent with Canada's Constitution and laws." As well, the Harper government has listened to the demands for more action about the missing women. "Our Government will take additional action to address the disturbing number of unsolved cases of murdered and missing Aboriginal women. The Sisters in Spirit initiative has drawn particular attention to this pressing criminal justice priority." The Speech From The Throne also included, "Our Government also recognizes the contributions of Canada's Aboriginal people. Too often, their stories have been ones of sorrow. Our Government will continue to build on its historic apology for the treatment of children in residential schools. After settling 17 specific claims since this Parliament began, it will continue to work to resolve additional claims. Having made safe drinking water and effective waste-water treatment on-reserve a national priority, our Government will introduce new legislative measures to further this goal. It is only 50 years ago that Aboriginal people in Canada were granted the right to vote. To further protect the rights of Aboriginal people, particularly women living on-reserve, our Government will take steps to ensure the equitable distribution of real property assets in the event of death, divorce or separation. It will also introduce legislation to comply with a recent court decision in order to address gender inequality under the Indian Act."

"He has been a respected member of his community and the letters of support indicate he has been a person who has provided support and guidance to members in his community." Sexual assault of niece during a so-called healing ceremony - 50 year old Dennis Clayton Buffalo, Day Star First Nation, has received a sentence of 29 months in a federal penitentiary. Mr. Buffalo describes himself as a First Nations pipe carrier. He conducts sweats and other ceremonies to assist people who come to him with mental or physical problems. Mr. Buffalo said he had a dream about the victim. After the dream, Mr. Buffalo called the victim's mother and told her that the victim was sick and that she needed to be doctored by him before she left on a trip to Las Vegas. The victim and her mother agreed to this. Mr. Buffalo drove to the victim's grandmother's home and picked the victim up. The victim agreed to go with Mr. Buffalo for what he called a "healing ceremony". Mr. Buffalo then drove the victim to his home on the Day Star First Nation, which was about a one-half hour drive. They went to his home because he said that was where his medicine was. Mr. Buffalo had performed a medicine ceremony on the victim on one occasion several years prior to this. As well, prior to this occasion, the victim had attended a couple of sweats that Mr. Buffalo had conducted. Mr. Buffalo and the victim arrived at his home around 11:30 p.m. No one was present at the house except the victim and Mr. Buffalo.Mr. Buffalo told the victim to take a sage bath and to drink some sage tea. The victim did so and then put on clothes that Mr. Buffalo had laid out for her. Mr. Buffalo then told the victim to go downstairs into one of the bedrooms in the basement. Once they were in the bedroom, Mr. Buffalo then smudged the victim with sage, sweet grass and cedar. They smoked a pipe together. Mr. Buffalo then told the victim to lay on the bed. Mr. Buffalo blew the smudge from the pan on the victim's body and fanned her with a feather. That's when the sexual assault began to occur. The victim did not say anything during the incident. Once this was over the victim got dressed and Mr. Buffalo drove the victim home. In sentencing him to prison, the Saskatchewan judge noted,"The aggravating factors include the fact that Mr. Buffalo is the victim's uncle. The victim trusted Mr. Buffalo, both as her uncle and as a pipe carrier. A pipe carrier is someone who the community has trust in. It is an aggravating factor that the assault took place in the course of what the victim thought was to be a healing ceremony, at a time when she was particularly vulnerable. It is also aggravating that Mr. Buffalo has a prior criminal record." The victim filed a Victim Impact Statement. The victim indicates in the Victim Impact Statement that she has been very hurt through this process, especially because she and others trusted Mr. Buffalo. She indicates that it is hard for her to have a relationship with men and lives in fear of men, even in her own family and describes herself as very emotionally upset. The victim also expressed some confusion about Mr. Buffalo's role as a trusted advisor saying "if what he did to me was the right way in our culture then why doesn't he say what exactly happened? His story should match mine." The victim's mother also filed a victim impact statement. She indicates that she felt very helpless and unable to help her daughter. She is very angry. She is very upset about the segregation that this incident has caused among her family and is upset that Mr. Buffalo has split her family over this incident.

A real breakthrough for environmentalists in their fight to get government information on fish health and sea lice related to controversial fish farms. The BC Government has been ordered by the Office of the BC Information and Privacy Commissioner to make public the information it gathers on the health of farmed fish. Environmental groups say the decision means greater independent scientific inquiry and public oversight into the highly contentious practice of open-net salmon farming along BC's West Coast. With a high incidence of sea lice and disease on farms, several scientists have predicted that the industry will lead to the extinction of some wild salmon runs in the Broughton Archipelago. "Unfortunately, transparency into fish farming will continue to be a problem even with improved access to government records," said David Lane, executive director of T.Buck Suzuki Environmental Foundation. "Although we now have access to government audit data, the real site-by-site sea lice and disease monitoring data is collected by the BC Salmon Farmers' Association, not the government. Without access to this information, the public and the government have no idea if parasite or disease levels are dangerously high on a particular farm and the government has no ability to enforce its Sea Lice Management Strategy. This is just the beginning ... The whole process of salmon farm reporting has to change so the public, not the companies are in control."

March 2, 2010 - One of the most important topics for discussion at treaty tables in BC is being forced to take a back seat. . . The Minister of Fisheries and Oceans Canada, the Honourable Gail Shea, today issued the following statement: "The Government of Canada is deferring the negotiation of fisheries components at treaty tables in British Columbia that involve salmon, pending the findings and recommendations of the Commission of Inquiry into the Decline of Sockeye Salmon in the Fraser River. The deferral of fisheries related negotiations will allow for treaty negotiations to be staged so that fish chapters in treaties can be informed by the findings and recommendations of the Inquiry. "As Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, I will continue to manage and authorize BC salmon fisheries, including First Nations allocations of salmon for food, social and ceremonial purposes, and all participation in integrated commercial fisheries."The Fraser River sockeye salmon stocks have been in decline and the Commission of Inquiry has been established to investigate the matter. The Commissioner has been mandated with investigating the causes for the decline, assessing the current state of Fraser River sockeye salmon stocks and long term projections for those stocks, and making recommendations for improving the sustainability of the sockeye salmon fishery in the Fraser River. The Commission is expected to provide an interim report in August, 2010 followed by a final report by May 1, 2011. "The findings of the Commission of Inquiry may have implications for management of other Pacific salmon fisheries, and it is therefore prudent to defer negotiations on the fisheries components of treaties in British Columbia. "The deferral will not affect late stage Final Agreement negotiations with Yale First Nation, Sliammon First Nation and In-SHUCK-ch Nation, which have reached this final stage after years of good faith discussions between all parties in the BC Treaty Process. "The Government of Canada will continue to work with all interested parties to consider issues related to conservation and sustainability of this key resource for all Canadians."

"It is not the caribou herd that is on the verge of extinction, but rather the Innu Nation that must fight against assimilation and extinction policies." That comment is from the Chiefs of the Innu Strategic Alliance (Innu communities of Ekuanitshit, Matimekush-Lac John Pessamit, Uashat mak Maniutenam and Unamen Shipu, representing about 12, 000 people and representing 70% of the members of the Innu Nation living in Quebec) who have taken stock of the recent controversial caribou hunt expedition, which took place last week in Labrador. "This initiative was successful and also a great victory. Above all, we bring caribou back to our communities, and secondly, governments have taken notice, specifically, the Newfoundland/Labrador government which has understood that it must take into account our future rights," said Georges-Ernest Gregoire, Chief of Uashat Mak Mani Utenam. About 150 hunters took part in this expedition in which one of the objectives was to assert their absolute right to the ancestral caribou hunt on their traditional territory located in both Quebec and Labrador; "a right that had been denied until now by the Newfoundland/Labrador government authorities". At the end of the hunt, 250 caribou were killed and brought back to the communities for food supplies. "For thousands of years, we have practiced the caribou hunt on a territory we call Nitassinan. No border drawn up by Euro-Canadians, upon their arrival four centuries ago, can limit Nitassinan and the inherent rights of its people. Our protest last week was clear and has sharpened our determination to defend our rights against any missives from the federal and provincial governments," said Real McKenzie, Chief of Matimekush-Lac-John. "The debate surrounding the extinction of the woodland caribou is hollow. We do not threaten any species. The caribou has been, to us, a sacred animal that we respect and protect since time immemorial. It is not the caribou herd that is on the verge of extinction, but rather the Innu Nation that must fight against assimilation and extinction policies. For us, exercising our rights is a matter of survival," stated Jean-Charles Pietacho, Chief of Ekuanitshit. Innu elders recall that traditional hunting always prioritizes the complete respect of the animal. Elders who were present last week took advantage of the opportunity to teach their skills to the younger generation. These elders, who thoroughly know Nitassinan, do not understand nor comprehend the Canadian biologists' explanations on the so-called menacing of the herd. They remind us that, before colonization, there was only one caribou herd on that part of the Nitassinan territory. It originated from the Georges River and assured an important migratory cycle. Due to the intensive colonization of the territory, the herd was split and one group became more sedentary and remained in the forest, while the other pursued its normal migratory route. In the process of migration some remained close to the forest. The two groups thus represent a single herd. Some biologists, unaware of historical facts, therefore have falsely perceived the two groups as distinct herds. There are now nearly 3,000 caribou labeled "woodland", which are not endangered. "Accusations of causing the extinction of the woodland caribou, openly voiced by the Newfoundland / Labrador Government when the Quebec Innu are hunting on the territory, are fraudulent and are intended to arouse public opinion against us, denounces Georges C.S. Bacon, Chief of Unamen Shipu. I have more faith in the Innu, rather than governments, when it comes to protecting wildlife and the environment."

March 1st, 2010 - Canada is host to the G8 and G20 Summits this year - unparalleled opportunities to be a human rights leader, says Amnesty International. "Human rights should be at the heart of Canada's approach to both summits". "Commitment to the rights of Indigenous peoples has been weakened by the failure to support the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. That position must be reversed. The discriminatory levels of funding for First Nations child protection agencies must be ended. And a comprehensive national action plan to address violence against Indigenous women is needed." Amnesty International Canada released a report titled, Canada and Human Rights in 2010: Time to Return to Leadership. It outlines how the government should address human rights protection. One section of the report is titled Indigenous Peoples: Selling human rights short - By any measure the situation of Indigenous peoples represents Canada's longest standing human rights challenge. Yet at both international and national levels, government policies and positions have undermined efforts to strengthen protection of the human rights of Indigenous peoples. In 2007 Canada was one of only four countries to vote against a ground-breaking and long-awaited UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Of the other three nations who joined Canada in opposition, Australia has since indicated strong support for the Declaration and both New Zealand and the United States are known to be actively reviewing their positions. Canada remains implacably opposed and regularly argues that the Declaration has no applicability to Canada because the government voted "no" in 2007. Canada would never accept that position from other countries who might assert that a UN decision has no application to them simply because they voted against it. In 2008, the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal agreed to hear a case challenging the consistent and significant underfunding of agencies that provide protection to First Nations children on reserves. Organizations who work with Indigenous children argue that the underfunding constitutes discrimination under the Canadian Human Rights Act. The government asserts that since the government only provides funding and does not deliver child protection services, it is not covered by the Act. As well, the government argues it is not discrimination as it impacts all First Nations children equally. For generations the rights of Indigenous children in Canada have been callously disregarded. What is needed is government action to ensure their rights are protected, not far-fetched legal arguments as to why the government is not responsible. Across the country some of the most blatant instances of human rights violations against Indigenous peoples revolve around a refusal to recognize and protect land and resource rights, essential to the well-being and cultural survival of Indigenous peoples. One distressing example is the situation on the Lubicon Cree in northern Alberta, who never ceded their traditional territory by way of treaty, but have been consistently treated by the federal and Alberta governments as if they have no rights to control or benefit from those lands. Instead, a massive wave of oil and gas production and exploration has gone ahead on their lands and resources, without their consent, without any meaningful benefit to them, and with devastating cost to their health, livelihood, culture and traditions. In 1990 the UN Human Rights Committee ruled that Canada's actions were a violation of human rights protected under international law. Twenty years later the violations continue. Indigenous women and girls in Canada have long faced heightened levels of violence and discrimination, targeted both because they are women and because they are Indigenous. Countless numbers of Indigenous women and girls have been murdered or have gone missing across the country at a rate far above the levels faced by other women and girls in the country. The Native Women's Association of Canada and UN human rights bodies have called for a comprehensive and coordinated national plan of action to respond to this alarming human rights tragedy. While some significant measures have been taken at local or provincial levels, the federal government continues to defer creation of the urgently needed national plan of action. Additionally, Amnesty International is concerned that while the federal government cites its partnership with the Native Women's Association of Canada as the primary means by which it is addressing the threats to Indigenous women, as of February of this year there had still been no announcement of renewal of funding for the organization's Sisters in Spirit campaign." In its recommendations, the report calls on Canada to "Demonstrate its commitment to the rights of Indigenous peoples by: announcing support for the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples; remedying discriminatory levels of funding for First Nations child protection agencies; fully recognizing and respecting the land and resource rights of the Lubicon Cree; and developing a comprehensive national action plan to address violence and discrimination against Indigenous women."

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