In this Issue.. Alberta Minister visits Blood Tribe page 3 Kyla Crow
Transcription
In this Issue.. Alberta Minister visits Blood Tribe page 3 Kyla Crow
TSINIKSSINI March 2013 VOL. 5 Issue 3 March 2013 In this Issue.. Published by Blood Tribe Administration COMMUNICATIONS Department The Blood Tribe Council Review entitled ‘TSINIKSSINI’ is dedicated to the sharing of information for the people of the Blood Tribe. The magazine format features news, stories, articles and an array of items as our way of sharing what is occurring on the Blood reserve and beyond. We hope you enjoy your magazine and invite any suggestions you may have in improving our coverage on any number of events and activities. The magazine will be printed on a monthly basis and will be distributed to various locations on the reserve. The magazine is free of charge. The magazine is published by the Blood Tribe Communications department and is printed by Graphcom Printers (2011) of Lethbridge. The collection of information, photographs and layout of the magazine is from the Blood Tribe Communications department. We would like to acknowledge Darlene Plume, Senior Executive Officer, the Blood Tribe Chief & Council and the people of the Blood Tribe for your support. Alberta Minister visits Blood Tribe page 3 Kyla Crow elected to BT Council page 4 Elders Summitpage 5 Idle No More update page 6 Melissa White Grass earns medal page 7 BT Human Resources Conference page 8 BT Human Resources Leadership Workshoppage 9 Youth Basketball Tournament page 10 Figure Skating Carnival page 11 Assembly of Alberta Treaty Chiefs page 12 BT Wireless Updatepage 13 Darlene Plume: Blood Tribe Senior Executive Officer Rick Tailfeathers: Communications Director Tom Russell: Communications Writer Myron Fox: Layout Graphic Design Lyndon Knife Photography/Ads Published by the authority of Blood Tribe Chief & Council Box 60 Standoff, AB T0L 1Y0 ph: (403) 737-3753 FAX: (403) 737-2785 visit our website for more... www.bloodtribe.org Multi-Purpose Building page 14 Residential School TRC names list page 15 Notices and Upcoming Events page 16 COVER: Kyla Crow is accompanied by fellow Chief & Council members at her searingin ceremony at the new Saipoyii Elementary School in Standoff. Photo credit: Myron Fox. 2 FEATURE TSINIKSSINI March 2013 ALBERTA MINISTER OF ABORIGINAL RELATIONS VISITS BLOOD RESERVE TO DISCUSS GUIDELINES Chief Charles Weaselhead and Alberta Minister of Aboriginal Relations, Robin Campbell, hammering out acceptable consultation process. Alberta Minister of Aboriginal Relations, Robin Campbell, in his recent visit to the Blood reserve met with Chief Charles Weasel Head and members of the Blood Tribe Council to discuss the Province of Alberta’s Consultation Policy and Consultation Guidelines. Alberta established its Consultation Policy in 2005 and Consultation Guidelines in 2006 – 07, to address its duty to consult with First Nations ‘When provincial decisions relating to land management and resource development have the potential to adversely impact’ First Nations treaty and aboriginal rights. Like many other First Nations in Alberta, the Blood Tribe is of the position that Alberta’s policy and guidelines do not meet the legal standard for consultation as established by the Supreme Court of Canada and arises out of s. 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982 which affirms and recognizes our existing Aboriginal and Treaty Rights. Chief Weasel Head stated that the Blood Tribe’s experience with the consultation process has not been satisfactory and has been under scrutiny. The courts have determined that the governments have a legal duty to consult and accommodate First Nations in matters that affect Treaty and Aboriginal Rights. This consultation would have to be deemed appropriate and accepted by all parties. Annabel Crop Eared Wolf, Tribal Government Coordinator, stated: “First Nations need to have a role in the development of the process for consultation to ensure that it is meaningful and that it is within the scope of the legal duty that has been established by the courts.” Councilor Dorothy First Rider who sits on the Tribal Government Committee commented: “The consultation seems to be more for industry, the rights and interests of industry are being advanced instead of protecting First Nations’ interest.” Although Alberta does have a consultation policy, it falls short of expectations by First Nations, including the Blood Tribe. Minister Campbell agrees that meaningful consultation is necessary in ensuring positive relationships with First Nations groups. “We are moving toward the development of an office of consultation, we will now have consistency of interpretation of consultation and adequacy, I think that’s a step forward,” stated Minister Campbell. He added, “We probably abrogated our responsibility of governance because we let industry take more and more of a role. We are now taking that back because it’s not working.” He further stated, “We will now, as government, sit with each First Nation and negotiate a consultation policy if they see fit. We will have a general policy paper that we will put out, and within the framework of that policy, if each First Nation wants to sit down and negotiate their own consultation adequacy, we are prepared to that.” Time will determine if these will result in more meaningful consultation. Other items on the agenda for the meeting in Standoff were in regard to the Kainai Peacemaking Centre and discussion of the lease agreement that has not been concluded, requiring a solid commitment from Alberta. The Minister indicated that he would be looking into that to see if they can move that along quicker. The third item was in regard to Minster Campbell lending support for the continued funding of the federal Aboriginal Justice Strategy that funds community justice programs such as the Peacemaking Program. The Minister Campbell came to the reserve on invitation of Chief Weasel Head and members of the Tribal Government Committee. During his visit he was also able to tour: Blood Tribe Housing Structures (housing plant on the reserve), Kainai Community Corrections facility, and the Kainai Health Centre. Minister of Aboriginal Relations, Robin Campbell and entourage visit housing factory, Plant manager Leonard Day Rider conducted the tour. 3 Story by Rick Tailfeathers TSINIKSSINI March 2013 FEATURE THE PEOPLE HAVE SPOKEN — AGAIN CROW ELECTED TO TRIBAL COUNCIL Kyla Crow is the newest Blood Tribe Councilor. A run-off by-election on Tuesday, March 5, 2013, in polling stations on the Blood reserve and in Lethbridge saw a total of 1,070 tribal members who exercised their right to vote for the final councilor position. Crow, who was the former student counselor for the University of Lethbridge, had 663 votes, while Robin Little Bear had 407 votes. The run-off by-election is the result of a tie between the two candidates vying for a four-year term during the tribal elections on November 27, 2012. Both Crow and Little Bear were tied with 395 votes each when the final tabulations were counted. A coin-toss decided who would hold the 12th councilor position however, an appeal, on the tie-breaking process, resulted in the run-off election. There were two polling stations during the run-off by-election. The Lethbridge polling station was situated at the Sik-Ooh-Kotoki Friendship Centre with 282 people voting, while the second polling station at the old Saipoyi School gymnasium saw 788 tribal members vote. In Lethbridge, the polling station opened at 9 a.m. and closed its doors at 7 p.m., while the Saipoyi School polling station opened at 10 a.m. and closed the polls Kyla Crow stands between Melanie Wells, WWC, and Blood elder at approximately 8 p.m. Patrick Black Plume. Now, nearly three months into the four-year term, Crow assumes her duties as a member of the Blood Tribe Chief & Council. Crow will undergo an orientation process with all the Blood Tribe Administration departments and entities, including an orientation on the legal aspects of the position as a member of council. CROW SWORN IN AS NEWEST COUNCILLOR IN A CEREMONY WITNESSED BY CHILDREN With just over three months after the election on November 27, 2012, the Blood Tribe Chief & Council are ready to move forward. Kyla Crow, who was recently elected in a Runoff By-election on March 5, 2013, was sworn-in in a ceremony at the new Saipoyi School before family, friends and the students and staff of the elementary school. The Blood Tribe Chief & Council members were also on hand to show their support for the newest member of council. Clayton Blood, communications advisor, chief & council, Blood Tribe, was the emcee for the swearing-in ceremony. Blood introduced elder Patrick Black Plume who gave his blessings and elder Andrew Weasel Fat performed the pipe ceremony with Kyla Crow. The Old Agency singers sang an honor song while the ceremony was being performed. At the conclusion of the pipe ceremony, Crow was the presented with the ceremonial sash and medallion by Black Plume. Melanie Wells, Lawyer, Walsh Wilkins Creighton, witnessed as Crow read the Oath to the people present. She then signed the Oath of Office. Blood then explained the meaning of the medallion and sash to the people. “The medallion awarded to our newest council member is symbolic of the Blood Tribe’s respect of the treaties,” he said. “These medallions were given to the leaders at the time of the signing of the treaty and it has been a ceremony that has been carried on since then. And the sash is also awarded to the members of council.” Patrick Black Plume then sang an honor song to Crow, and at the conclusion of the ceremony, was then welcomed by Chief Weasel Head. “These children here are the reason why we tried hard, to care for our children. We respect our teachers, educators for the important roles you play. Also, our elders and members of council for being with us on this very special day,” he said. “On behalf of Chief & Council, I would like to acknowledge Kyla Crow who has been selected as out 12th member of council. There are many challenges ahead of us. When we speak of our community, we speak of the young people who are here with us today. I would like to acknowledge 4 them and of the potential we have and the opportunity for the teachers and staff who have just as tough a job as we do with regard to preparing the young people. Thank you to the people of the community and welcome Kyla.” Each of the council members then welcomed Councillor Crow. Blood elder Bruce Wolf Child shared his thoughts and gave his blessings with an honor song. He was happy the children had an opportunity to witness the ceremony and how the pipe is respected by the Blackfoot people. At the conclusion of the guest speakers, Councillor Crow then shared a few of her thoughts with the people. “It was an honor that we had it (swearingin) here, because we’re the one who are going to pave the way for our future leaders,” said Crow. “I would like to thank the community, my family, my brother (Rob Crow) my role model. It’s going to be an exciting four years to work with the newly elected council and I’m excited to move forward.” Family member Marvin Calf Robe then sang an honor song for his niece, Kyla Crow. Stories by Tom Russell FEATURE TSINIKSSINI March 2013 ELDERS SUMMIT REACHES OUT TO THE PEOPLE TO BEGIN PROCESSES OF LEARNING LANGUAGE Richard Fox, superintendent, KBE, presents Dr. Richard Little Bear with gifts. There were many elders of the Blood Tribe who attended a summit to share information on such topics including the need to reintroduce the spoken Blackfoot dialect to a younger generation who have a limited concept of our first language. Elder Patrick Black Plume, who was the emcee for the summit, kept the momentum flowing with his sincerity and humor as he introduced the guest speakers. Richard Fox, Superintendant, Kainai Board of Education, spoke on the many opportunities present for the young to begin understanding the Blackfoot language. “Our challenge as educators, individually, as community members, as elders, as much as you can, take the effort to do something on a daily basis, to hang onto the culture we have,” he said. “We need to demonstrate it, to be role models, and to feel proud of knowing who we are.” BTEB Chairperson Johnny Day Rider spoke to the people in attendance in the Blackfoot language and encouraged those fluent in the language to share their wisdom and knowledge. “There are times you will hear someone trying to speak the language, and then another person will come along and say, ‘That is not the way you say it,’” he said. 5 “We have to understand that the person is trying their best to begin learning. We have to help them in any way we can.” One of the organizers of the Elder’s Summit, Mary Fox, Kainai Studies Coordinator, KBE, spoke to the audience on making every effort to strengthen our language. “We encourage you to keep our language alive. We’re nearly losing our language,” she said. “Speak our language to your grandchildren, your children. It’s hard, but we need to hold onto our language.” The elder’s summit feature guest speaker Dr. Richard Little Bear, a Northern Cheyenne from Lame Deer, Mont., who spoke on his decision to choose saving the Cheyenne language in the schools. “Learn how to read and write your language. Become proficient in it,” he explained. “If you know how to speak your language, learn how to read and write your language. Our language is very descriptive and you have to learn about your language. We have to make language learning fun, interesting.” Dr. Little Bear shared his lifelong journey to fully understand his role in keeping the indigenous languages alive. He then took questions from the audience. Jaime Medicine Crane mentioned the difficulty of students not choosing the language programs in the schools. “What we (Cheyenne) have done is set two days aside to let the parents come in to learn the language with their child,” Dr. Little Bear said. “We tried to incorporate programs that involved parents.” Leo Fox, retired KBE employee, showed a powerpoint on his family’s history on two cultures his family members have had to live with. Fox said his parents were strong Catholics, but they still practiced their language and culture. Blood elder Wayne Plume gave a history of the Blood people and Jacinta Fox also shared a survey performed by the Aitsipoyiiks group who are in the process of reaching out into the community to work toward preserving and strengthening our language. The work continues by the Blood elders and educators to work toward the teaching and preserving of the Blackfoot language. Story by Tom Russell TSINIKSSINI March 2013 FEATURE UP-DATE FROM THE IDLE NO MORE MOVEMENT AND CURRENT EVENTS Oki brothers and sisters: It’s been a few weeks, but better late than never! Idle No More going in to the schools as Idle Know More. INM was invited to the Tatsikiisapo’p Middle School to give a brief presentation of INM, the gang issue and the importance of staying in school. Also was the invitation to an all day session at the Saipoyi School where we had the opportunity to show K 4-5 through to grade three students about INM with the same message, but it was quite a task developing INM information for elementary students to understand. Thanks to Lori for developing the awesome powerpoint and also doing the presentation and for Jobie, who is one of our younger INM members to represent his age group and Natalie for her assistance as well. At the end of each session of four, we had 4 prizes we awarded for the students who listened for the key words (peace, unity and solidarity) and the phrase, “To stay in school.” Although it was short notice, INM again fulfilled its objective of education through awareness. and.... It’s been quite an eventful February ending with the Tom Flanagan fallout at the University of Lethbridge on February 27, 2013. Article: http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ calgary/story/2013/03/02/calgaryflanagan-video-poster.html Video: http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=bM9IogQlbXo The oppressed taking down the oppressors, it’s possible! - Levi Little Mustache Tom Flanagan faces Indigenous justice. Call it karma, call it luck… but we are always mindful of what we say and do. It comes back to you. - Arnell Tailfeathers According the latest news, it seems that INM “trapped” Tom flanagan (as he says himself as well) which diverted from the real issue of the Indian Act. Although it was a question outside of the topic, he didn’t have to answer anyway, and decided to put his foot in his mouth (as if it was not already in there) to take the bullet. So now is INM at fault? I think not. We all have an opinion, whether good or bad, but remember if it’s bad it will come back at you. So Tom Flanagan, it came back at you big time--so deal with it. Within INM, we do make sure we back up our words and in this case with Levi, good job on the research and Arnell keep your camera ready like the weapon of truth it is. And now for this announcement: Good day! Drop n Beats with RAYNE & Joey Stylez at the Sik-ooh-kotoki Friendship Society from 1 – 4 p.m. Free admission + first 60 through the door receive Joey Stylez and Redd Nation Cd’s! Please post and forward a copy of our poster to all of your community contacts. We are still looking for youth to register for the Talent Show. Please contact me for more information @ 403-328-2414. Ask for Jay Colter Smith. See posting attached. INM will have an info booth set-up at this event. Check this article about INM buttons from the PSAC: http://prairies.psac.com/campaigns/idleno-more/psac-spreads-idle-no-moresupport-with-solidarity-buttons The Public Service Alliance of Canada are an ally of Idle No More and we thank you for your continued support. Here are some articles of interest: http://prairies.psac.com/human-rights/ aboriginal-peoples/why-this-white-mansupports-idle-no-more-and-you-should-too and: http://psac.com/news/2012/ issues/20121218-e.shtml Our ally prairie webpage: http://prairies.psac.com/ Dates to keep in mind are: March 20: Ceremony and Resurgence March 21: Idle No More Day of Action AKA International Day To End RACISM March 22: Worldwide water day. We’ll keep you posted as these dates are in the planning stage. Well this is the update for this week and encourage everyone to attend any of these events and to keep up the good work as we Idle No More are a collective of unique individuals and with our allies, we have the power and the voice to make positive change and with this power may we walk in solidarity with all our brothers and sisters as we pave the way for a better future. The fight continues. See you on the front lines. In Solidarity Api’soomaahka William III Idle No More Blood Tribe NOTE: The Blood Tribe Chief & Council, on behalf of the people of the Blood Tribe, recognize the role of the Idle No More movement here on the reserve. The Idle No More movement continues to share information and create awareness in peaceful and respectful manner. 6 Story by Tom Russell FEATURE TSINIKSSINI March 2013 WHITEGRASS AWARDED QUEENS DIAMOND JUBILEE MEDAL FOR CONTRIBUTIONS TO CANADIAN PEOPLE Master Corporal Melissa White Quills with her mother, grandmother and family who were there to support her in this proud moment of hers. A Blood Tribe member who served her country in the Afghanistan war is now officially retired from active duty, but not after receiving recognition for her contributions to Canada. Master Corporal Melissa Whitegrass was recently honored with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee medal on for life-threatening injuries she received while on duty. Surrounded by family and friends, Whitegrass received the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee medal in a ceremony at the Galt Museum & Archives on January 18, 2013, from the Queen’s representatives. Major Nolan Kemp CD, CHRP, ceremony emcee, described the history and occasion for the presentation: “The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee medal was created to commemorate her majesty’s accession to the Throne sixty years ago. This commemorative medal is a tangible and lasting way to pay tribute to Canadians whose achievements have benefitted their fellow citizens, their community, their organization and their country. It provides an opportunity to look back and recognize those who made Canada what it is today, and to look forward and recognize those who are actively involved in our country’s future,” he said. “Our commitment to Canada is strengthened when we collectively pay homage to those who distinguish themselves by virtue of their talents, generosity and their service to their community, and to our country. We are proud to recognize Master Corporal Melissa Whitegrass.” Master Corporal Melissa Whitegrass was in the Canadian Army since July 4, 2002, and was deployed to Afghanistan on November 19, 2009. She was stationed in Kabul, Afghanistan with the ISAF Joint Command headquarters. Master Corporal Whitegrass was a Troop Commander and driver for the Ground Movement Team called MOVECON. Master Corporal Whitegrass was injured when approximately 1,650 lbs of explosives detonated on her convoy, killing 24 soldiers and civilians, and injuring over fifty people. That day, the Afghans killed several high ranking officers. Whitegrass then took a leave of duty, but has since retired from service. Blood elder Dr. Pete Standing Alone gave his blessings and offered his words of encouragement to Whitegrass and her family. John K. McDonald, CD President of the Aboriginal Veterans Society of Alberta, then presented Whitegrass with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee medal. Blood elder Patrick Black Plume then sang a praise song and councilor Billy Wadsworth then sang an honor song. Councilor Mike Bruised Head, on behalf of Chief & Council, shared his thoughts and memories of Whitegrass when she was a student of his, and of his signing 7 a reference letter when she wanted to join the Bold Eagles Aboriginal Youth Development program. Whitegrass was then called to the podium to acknowledge the medal presentation. “I’m very honored. I didn’t want to cry,” she said, holding back tears. “I just wanted to announce that my career in the Canadian Armed Forces, decisions came down, and I will be medically released. So, I won’t be serving in the Canadian Armed Forces anymore. Believe me, I would love to serve this country. I was planning on doing this until I was sixty-five.” After graduating from the Bold Eagle program as the top candidate, and her eventual duty in war-torn countries, little did she know she would become a role model. “I now have time to work for my community, which is not only here on the Blood reserve, but here in Lethbridge,” she said. When she was injured in the bomb blast, she said there was one motivating factor which brought her home. “What happened in Afghanistan, everything happens for a reason. I wasn’t supposed to make it, but I made it,” she said. “The reason why I made it was because of this little girl, Donnie Rae. That just shows how much the Creator is in our lives. It was my faith in my Aboriginal culture was what got me home. I wouldn’t be standing here if it wasn’t for my little girl, and I thank you all very much for this honor.” Stories by Tom Russell TSINIKSSINI March 2013 FEATURE BLOOD TRIBE HUMAN RESOURCES HOSTED CONFERENCE FOR EMPLOYEES OF THE ADMINISTRATION AND ENTITIES Ron Many Heads, Siksika, shared his thoughts on the topic of bullying. Many Heads uses humor as one way to reach his audience. A Human Resource conference entitled “Recapturing a Good Spirit in the Workplace” was designed to improve working relations between employees and to encourage and foster a positive sense of well-being beginning from the individual and broadening out to the organization. Katie Rabbit-Young Pine, Director, Blood Tribe Human Resources, said the conference theme was well-chosen and shared by very capable professionals and community people. “When a person begins to work at any organization, they’re excited about securing that employment, and they’re eager to prove their worth,” explained Rabbit-Young Pine. “Somewhere along the way, that spirit of motivation, encouragement, teamwork, begins to dissipate (spread thin or gradually vanish), so we got Teamworks to talk about communication; Ron Many Heads from Siksika who spoke on Bullying, and the Aitsi’poyiiks who spoke on the language. While the issues are serious, I encouraged the presenters to bring laughter to the sessions, because we, as Niitsitapiiks (Real People), can relate to that.” The Human Resource conference began on February 27, 2013, with a banquet and entertainment. Well-known comedian Howie Miller, a Cree from Northern Alberta, and who has travelled extensively across both Canada and the United States, kept the audience in stitches throughout his performance. During the three-day conference, the employees who participated were separated into three groups. Each group then had the opportunity to be a part of each of the three sessions. Ron Many Heads, one of the presenters from Siksika, spoke on bullying. “Bullying happens everywhere,” he said. “Bullying is going to be here for a long time. We can’t get rid of it; we just need to control it.” Many Heads mentioned just how prevalent bullying is on the reserves. “It’s everywhere. It’s on the buses, in the playground, in the classrooms, it’s in the workplace,” he said. “We can’t ignore it. There are many types of bullying including cyber-bullying, intimidation, workplace and everyday bullying. There are long-term effects and we have to put a stop to this.” The Aitsipoyiiks group gave a presentation on the language and traditional aspects of the Blackfoot culture. Beverly Hungry Wolf, Martin Eagle Child, Delphine Goodstriker and Peter Weasel Moccasin each shared their knowledge and guidance with each of the groups. Hungry Wolf told the participants the Blackfoot traditional values play an important role in the wellbeing of our community. “We all have the teachings of respect, and an understanding of our traditions,” she said. “These teachings from our parents and elders provide a starting point for employees in the workplace and then reach out into the communities.” The Teamworks group spoke on the importance of communication and how it helps to create a better understanding in the 8 workplace. Blood elder Wilton Goodstriker, a wellrespected and gifted storyteller, brought an understanding of the Blackfoot way of life and of how our values should be incorporated into the workplace. “Every organization has to have a clear distinction between the administration and the policy makers,” he said. “Every councilor wants to be an administrator, but, they’re the ones who guide us. It’s our job (administration) to enforce those regulations. There has to be a clear distinction.” Goodstriker continued: “Every administration has to have a vision,” he said. “A clear code of ethics; to be responsible to each other and to the people we serve. Teamwork is the new catchphrase. You need a good team by looking at the strengths of each person. The best form of communication is face-toface, and to be clear. Develop a high level of creativity and try not to take work home. These are just a few things I’d like to share with you. Reconnect with yourself and others. Laugh, enjoy the laughter of others. Encourage each other.” The proceeds the Human Resources received from the conference went to the Kainai Minor Hockey Association in the amount of $4000. Katie Rabbit-Young Pine, on behalf of the Human Resources, acknowledges and thanks everyone who was involved in the conference. FEATURE TSINIKSSINI March 2013 HUMAN RESOURCES OFFERS SUPERVISOR TRAINING AS ONE METHOD OF INITIATING LEADERSHIP SKILLS Blood Tribe Administration employees seeking to further their skills. The Supervisor training series designed to improve the leadership skills for employees currently in supervisory roles within Blood Tribe Administration and interested entities is nearing completion. Hosted by the Blood Tribe Administration’s Human Resource Department, the training sessions were open to all employees, supervisors or not, who wanted to gain the knowledge and skills required to be effective in their job. Katie Rabbit-Young Pine, Director, Blood Tribe Administration’s Human Resources, said the training workshops are geared for the employee who wants to enhance their skill level to keep up with the current trend of today’s administrative environment. “The training is geared to employees in a supervisory position from within Blood Tribe Administration or surrounding entities,” she explained. “The goal is to provide the necessary tools to deal with real life situations in the office, clarifying the role of a supervisor, communicating and motivating employees, to effectively delegating tasks without creating conflict.” Rabbit-Young Pine said there are many other areas supervisors must be aware of, especially in today’s workplace environments. “This training also helps you in documenting those important events in your office,” she said. “For example, if two employees do not agree to a process, that’s conflict. Some conflict is more serious than others, but it is certainly an opportunity to make change to improve on how we carry out our duties and to serve our community members.” With 15 Blood Tribe Administration departments and 12 entities, there is a need to ensure the policies & procedures are understood and adhered to by all employees. Rabbit-Young Pine said proper direction and role modeling by the supervisors will establish a better workplace setting for employees. “Our goal is to start taking responsibility and take the initiative to move forward,” Rabbit-Young Pine described of the training which was open to anyone interested in achieving a better understanding of roles and responsibilities. “This training is available to our employees so that we can create a better atmosphere of teamwork and direction.” The training session was attended by employees from First Nations departments and entities both on-and-off the Blood reserve. Rabbit-Young Pine was pleased with the turnout offered by the Human Resources and Empower Training Inc. “Many of the comments coming back were very encouraging,” she said. “The participants said they were excited and pleased because they have gained more knowledgeable and increased their confidence in carrying out their duties.” At the conclusion of the fourth training session, participants will receive certificates for their efforts. Rabbit-Young Pine feels the employees will be in a better position to contribute to the well-being of their department or entity. “We feel it’s very important for us to provide these opportunities to our members in the workforce so they can be better equipped at dealing with issues, be mindful of the processes involved, to work within a timeline and to achieve results,” she said. “Our greatest assets are the people who serve the people.” Blood Tribe Human Resources is currently putting a calendar of Professional Development activity for the upcoming year. Employees who successfully completed supervisor training pose with Jim Brown, Empower Training Inc. 9 Story by Tom Russell TSINIKSSINI March 2013 FEATURE YOUTH BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT BRING CHILDREN TOGETHER TO FRIENDSHIP CENTRE FOR SPORTS DAY The winning basketball team from the youth bracket, pose for the camera after a fun, one-day tournament. A youth basketball tournament hosted by the Sik-Ooh-Kotoki Friendship Centre on February 23, 2013, had over a hundredand-thirty youngsters between the ages of 7 to 10 and 11 to 13 who enjoyed the fast-paced but friendly competition during the one-day event. One of the tournament organizers, Patricia Bruised Head, said it was nice to have so many of the youth and parents come out in support of the activity. “We wanted to do something for the kids. They need to be kept busy,” she explained. “It was organized on short notice, but we managed to have a well-organized event.” Bruised Head, along with Darcie Vielle, T.J. Ramsay, Jay Smith and Councilor Dexter Bruised Head, organized a youth basketball tournament at the Sik-OohKotoki Friendship Centre during the weeklong school break for the many students both on-and-off the Blood reserve. “We are trying to get the youth away from using drugs and alcohol. We don’t want them going that route,” she said. “We wanted to organize a sports activity to keep their minds focused on positive activities, and to hear their laughter.” With only a few days before the event began, the tournament organizers managed to secure donations from several sponsors from in-and-around Lethbridge. With the donations, the organizers were able to order over 100 tee-shirts and to feed the youth and their parents and guardians throughout the day. Bruised Head was pleased at the way the community and the families came together on such short notice. “We approached sponsors to get the 100 tee-shirts, and to get food to feed the people,” she said. “We wanted everyone to be fed and to feel really good about their involvement here at the tournament. It was really nice to see the parents there, involved with their children. The youth really enjoyed seeing their parents there to watch them.” During the day, each of the youth was placed on teams according to their ages. The teams then began the tournament format until the two top teams of each age category met in the finals. Though there were two teams who came out on top during the championship games, Bruised Head said everyone who attended and supported the Youth Basketball tournament were champions. “I would say everyone is a winner,” she said of the youth and their families. “You could see it in the youth and their parents. You could see the children progressing, trying their best while having fun. Everyone really made this event successful and we hope to have more functions like this in the near future.” The tournament organizers acknowledge the following sponsors and people who contributed to the Youth Basketball tournament: Blood Tribe Recreation, Sik-Ooh-Kotoki Friendship Centre, Sandra Vielle, Frank Black Plume, Al Black Water, Dorothy First Rider, Mike Bruised Head, Franklyn White Quills, Marcel Weasel Head, Myron Eagle Speaker, Kainai Resources Inc., Native American Resource Partners, the team coaches, timekeepers, officials, volunteers and food providers. The action was intense as the basketball players provided plenty of entertainment. 10 Story by Tom Russell FEATURE TSINIKSSINI March 2013 FIGURE SKATING CARNIVAL SHOWCASES TALENTS OF THE MANY BLOOD CHILDREN Jaime Fox, right, hopes to have even more skaters next year. The young skaters shared their talent and grace for the audience. A small but enthusiastic group of children and teens participated in a Figure Skating Carnival at the Kainai Sports Centre on March 10, 2013, before a large number of family and friends. Jaime Fox, carnival organizer, said the event was to showcase the increasing talents and skating abilities of the children. “The children who participated in the carnival were really excited,” she said. “They are already looking forward to next year’s carnival and want to make it an even bigger event.” The figure skating program was initiated by Jaime Fox, case manager, Child Protection Services, who learned how to skate when she was three-years-old. Her love for the sport eventually developed into sharing her passion with others. “I was quite young when I began to skate, and I had a dream of making it to the Olympics,” she shared. “I want to teach the children to learn how to skate and to have fun with it. It’s a great way for the children to meet new friends and to become more active. Hopefully, one of the children can take their dreams as far as they can.” At the beginning of the season, Fox began a skating club called the Learn to Skate program which involved youngsters from the ages of three-years and older. “There would only be a few skaters at the beginning,” she said. “Then, during the season, I told the kids about having a carnival, and they became really excited. We all began working toward the carnival.” The carnival featured the skaters going through drills and performances amidst the cheering and clapping from the audience. Each of the children helped to decorate the sports centre in preparation for the event. Fox said the skaters held fund-raising functions during the year to help pay for the carnival. “I volunteer all my time and effort to helping the children in any way I can,” said Fox. “They really looked forward to the carnival and they helped out as much as they could to raise the money to buy their outfits and decorations. We had a Valentine’s Day Basket raffle sale too. We sold raffle tickets and that really helped us.“ With limited ice-time throughout the season, Fox remains determined to make 11 the figure skating club even bigger next year. “I just have so much love for skating that I want to share it with the community,” she said. “We hope we can have more icetime so that more children can out to learn the sport. I would like to register the group in a professional figure skating association. That would be great for us.” Fox said she would like to acknowledge the children and the parents who offered their support. “I thank Shauna Scout, Sheila Many Fingers, Kelly Wells and Sissy Mistaken Chief for all their support,” she said. “I want to thank all the families who helped us, the community for supporting us through the raffles, my parents and my sister Cathy also helped with the music. I don’t think I could’ve done this without the support from everyone. Also, I want to thank Tannis Crosschild for helping us on the ice during the carnival.” Story by Tom Russell TSINIKSSINI March 2013 YEAR IN REVIEW ALBERTA CHIEFS CALL FOR TREATY-BASED DEVELOPMENT OF FIRST NATION EDUCATION ACT Alberta Chiefs are calling for a Sovereign approach to the development of a First Nation Education Act announced by Canada in its Economic Action Plan 2012. The Government committed to having education legislation in place for First Nations by September 2014. The proposal is currently exploring mechanisms to ensure “stable, predictable and sustainable funding for First Nation students.” At the most recent Assembly of Treaty Chiefs (AoTC), Chiefs rejected the unilateral imposition of federal legislation and passed a resolution to develop a First Nation Education Act for Alberta, based on Treaty and Inherent Rights that will include a funding formula legislated within the Act. Since Canada launched its “intensive consultations” with First Nations, Chiefs across the country have demanded a working relationship with the Federal Government to support the development of regional agreements on education -- such as the Alberta Memorandum of Understanding for First Nations Education. Chief Charles Weasel Head says, “We are guided by our nation-to-nation treaty relationship with the Crown. The federal government’s legislative agenda conflicts with the rights and needs of our people, and so far; nothing supports individual First Nations to rebuild their own economies and making decisions for themselves. Instead, we only see more obstacles in recent legislation and policies. We need to be at the table in the development and drafting of any legislation impacting First Nations.” Directors of Education for Treaty No. 6, Treaty No. 7 and Treaty No. 8, have gathered Chiefs, elders and First Nation experts to plan and prepare for the Government of Canada’s process of consultation that will take place in Alberta on April 16, 2013. The purpose is to develop strategies that will produce better educational outcomes for First Nation students in the development and drafting of legislation based on the inherent and Treaty rights to education and identified in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Several options are being discussed, including: A Citizenship Approach to Education; A Proposed Indian Education Act Approach; and the Sovereign or Treaty Federalism Approach. The Sovereign approach for example, would be pursuant to Treaty and Supreme Court decisions that state First Nations are sovereign and Nations have their own governing institutions, including education. Indian Nations continue to assert that the Right to Education arises out of Treaty and that Canada has a Treaty responsibility to provide the resources, financial and otherwise, for the First Nations to implement their own educational institutions. The two-phase consultation process began December 2012 and runs through April 2013. According to its website, First Nation parents, educators, leaders and others are invited to participate in regional consultation sessions and to explore the Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada’s website, where opportunities to provide input for consideration in the drafting of legislation can be entered. Canada says input gathered during this initial phase will help to inform 12 the drafting of legislation. During the second phase, the Government says the draft legislation will be shared with all First Nation communities across Canada, as well as with provincial governments and other stakeholders, for feedback. Canada’s proposal for a First Nations Education Act in 2014 is to establish the structures and standards to support “strong, accountable education systems on reserve.” In addition, the Government committed to exploring mechanisms to ensure “stable, predictable and sustainable funding for First Nation education.” The proposed act includes mandatory education standards for all First Nations schools in areas such as attendance, curriculum, and graduation requirements, similar to current education requirements for other schools at the provincial level. “Our Nations are at a crossroads and face a turning point with imposed Legislation affecting our Treaty and aboriginal rights,” said Chief Weasel Head. “That is why we need to be a part of Canada’s development of the proposed First Nations Education Act. We have to find common ground moving forward and to have a say in the drafting of any new legislation impacting our First Nations so that our rights are not legislated away. We demand respect for our treaties, meaningful consultations and better academic outcomes for our children.” Story by Brent Scout YEAR IN REVIEW TSINIKSSINI March 2013 BLOOD TRIBE COMMUNICATIONS SEND TWO FOR INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY TRAINING Steve Frank, IT administrator, with Clay Creighton and Chad Eagle Plume, are busy providing expertise with the people. Over the past three months the Communications Department has employed three community members under an Information Technology internship program, spearheaded by First Nations’ TSAG (Technical Service Advisory Group). The three technicians, Bryce Chief Moon, Chad Eagle Plume and Clay Creighton, have been working in the community as installers for the Tribe’s new internet venture, Blood Tribe Wireless, but two of the three technicians recently expanded on their technical skills at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT). Clay Creighton and Chad Eagle Plume joined other Information Technology interns from Treaties 6, 7 and 8 during the week of March 12-15, 2013, at NAIT for the Introduction to Information Technology and Fundamentals course. The course covered everything from identification of computer components and accessories to troubleshooting computer systems and networks. Armed with this knowledge, and under the direction of their supervisor, Steve Frank, the technicians hope to apply their skills within the departments and entities of the BTA and Entities. Clay Creighton, one of the IT employees who was part of the training in Edmonton said the information gathered is useful in the type of work they are performing. “It was pretty good training,” he said. “We had the opportunity to tear apart computers, to see the internal part of a computer, the hardware, what it does, and then looked at the network. It was pretty good.” Chad Eagle Plume, the other technician, commented on the training he received. “I thought I knew the basics of computers,” he said. “But, the training really opened my eyes to everything, like all the components inside the computer. We received really good information.” The two technicians are currently installing the hardware for tribal members who are requesting for internet services. As they receive each request, the installers work with the homeowners to ensure someone is 13 home while they are installing the hardware. They then have to align the internet dish with the internet tower so the signal will have a clear connection. Creighton said the installation usually takes upwards of about three hours to complete from start to finish. “It’s just common courtesy to have someone home, but also for security reason too, when we are installing the hardware foe the internet,” he said. “We have to drill a hole into the walls of the house to install cables and in a place where the homeowner wants to hardware to be located. This usually takes about three hours.” Eagle Plume said the installers often run into minor problems. “At our last location, we had a hard time trying to line up the internet dish with the tower, so this took a bit more time,” he said. “But, usually, we can install the hardware in as many as three homes in one day.” Anyone interested in accessing internet services for their home can contact Sarah Sweetgrass at 403.7378144. TSINIKSSINI March 2013 FEATURE MULTI-PURPOSE BUILDING UPDATE WORK CONTINUES DESPITE WEATHER The Kainai Multi-purpose building currently in the process of having the outer shell covered will soon see the internal structure being developed. Jim Plume, coordinator, Multi-purpose building, says the exterior work is nearing completion and the work can now be focused on the inside of the building. “To date, we are just finishing the interior membrane and are starting to do the exterior sprung shield,” he says of the work project. “Once we do that, we will be erecting the structural steel inside the building. This is for the track, offices and library.” Due to the unpredictable weather conditions, the completion date for the multi-purpose facility is now slated for the end of September. “We are currently behind schedule for at least three weeks,” says Plume. “The temperature had to be at least minus -5 or warmer in order to install the sprung shield, and the wind was also a factor in our schedule. But, once this work is done, Sprung doesn’t have to be here anymore.” Once the exterior work is complete, the steel work will begin and concrete will be poured for the flooring and other areas. To keep the project moving, Plume says many local tradesmen and laborers were employed during the initial work phase. “We had nearly 95 per cent local workers employed here and we will be looking for more tradesmen once we have the cement poured,” he says. “We’re looking forward to hiring trades people in the electrical, dry-walling and plumbing; that type of employment. But, we will let them know when the time comes.” NEWS RELEASE STUDENT MAKES UNIVERSITY OF MONTANA DEAN’S LIST FOR ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT MISSOULA, MONT.—At the University of Montana, 2,983 students made the autumn semester 2012 Dean’s List. To qualify for the Dean’s List, students must be undergraduates, earn a semester grade average of 3.50 or higher and receive grades of A or B in at least nine credits. No grades of C+, C, C-, D+, D-, F, NC or NCR are allowed. Jordy Healy, son of Maria Russell and Stu Healy, is registered in the U of M’s computer technology program. 14 Story by Tom Russell FEATURE TSINIKSSINI March 2013 A CALL FOR YOUR SUPPORT The Blood Tribe Dept. of Health Indian Residential School Program and the Truth and Reconciliation Committee are planning to construct a permanent monument dedicated to the legacy of the experiences of the Indian residential school former students. Our objective is to include all the family names of former students who attended the St. Mary’s and St. Paul’s residential schools on the Blood Reserve. If you are a Blood Tribe member who attended a residential school within southern Alberta and beyond, please submit your family names as we would like to include it on the monument. The Commenorative Project intent is to, “honor, educate, remember, memorialize and/or pay tribute to former students, their families and their communities.” Please review the list of family names and forward any missing family names to the following contacts: Your support is much appreciated! Deadline is April 15, 2013 Deadline is FEBRUARY 15, 2013 CONTACT: JACKIE RED CROW, COORDINATOR Indian Residential School Program Blood Tribe Dept, of Health • Standoff, AB E-mail - Jackie.rc@btdh.ca • Phone: (403) 737.3883 OR WILMA SPEAR CHIEF, TRC COMMITTEE MEMBER E-mail – wspearchief@shaw.ca Cell - (403) 330.7088 FAMILY NAMES - Monument 41131303 1. Across The Mountain 39. Vielle 80. Sweet Grass 121. Sleeping Woman 159. No Runner Across The Mountain Two Guns Morning Bird Holy Singer Man/White Man 2. Bad Arm 40. Weasel Head Plain Woman81. Tail Feathers 122. Small Eyes 160. Oka Bad Arm Vielle Plaited Hair Morning Owl Hunt King 3. Bad Man 41. White Man Left 82. Tallow Owl Boy 123. Soup/SoopIron Shirt 161. Prairie Chicken Bad Man Weasel Head Quesnelle Rider Bare Shin Bone White Man 42. 124. Spotted BullLittle Shields 162. Red Crow Bare Shin4.Bone LeftWilliams Spear Chief 83. Wadsworth Panther Bone Holy White Man 5. Bear Child 125. Standing Alone Bear Child Williams 43. Yellow WingsStabsdown 84. Weasel Moccasin Plume Many Chief 163. RussellBrown Weasel White Robe 46. Big Sorrel Horse 126. Tall Man Many Fingers164. Scraping Big Bull 6. Big Bull Yellow Wings Sweet Grass 85. Wells Rabbit Turning 127. White Feathers Big Head7. Big Head Aberdeen 47. Big Throat Tail Feathers 86. Yellow Feet Red Crane Many Grey 165. Shade Little Moustache 166. Shot Both Sides 48. Big Wolf 87. Young Pine 128. White Quillls Bull Calf8. Bull Calf Beebe Tallow Scout Horses Strikes With A Gun 167. Singer Little Child 9. Bull Child 49. Black Fore Head 129. Willows Medicine Crane Bull Child Big Sorrel Horse Wadsworth 90. Big Swallow Shouting 10. Courtoreille Big Throat 50. Black Water Weasel Moccasin 91. Bird Sleeping Woman 130. Wings Courtoreille Nice Cutter 168. Small Eyes Steele Cross Child Small Eyes Coming Singer 11. Cross Child Big Wolf 51. Brave Rock Wells 92. Black Face 131. Wolf PlumeNight Gun 169. Small Face Eagle Bear Black Fore 52. Head Yellow Feet 93. Black Rabbit Soop Wolf Bull 12. Eagle Bear Brewer 132. Black PlumeNo Runner 170. StripedWhite Frank 13. Frank Black Water53. Buckskin Young Pine 94. Blood Soup Oka 171. Twigg Shot Close 133. Bruised Head Gambler 14. Gambler Brave Rock54. Bull Shields Bear 172. WeaselWarrior Fat 95. Bottle Spotted Bull 134. Calf Robe Prairie Chicken Good Dagger Bear Back Bone Standing Alone 135. Calling LastRed Crow 173. White Man Charles 15. Good Dagger Brewer 55. Chief Mountain 96. Chief Body Hungry Crow Horse Big Swallow97. Chief Calf Tall Man Big Crow 136. Crow EaredRussell Wolf 174. Wolf Child 16. Hungry Crow Buckskin/Black 56. Coal Iron Horn Bull Shields Bird White Feathers Scraping White Breaker 137. Crow Spreading 175. Wolf Tail 17. Iron Horn 57. Cotton 98. Creighton Iron Pipe Chief Mountain Black Face White Quills Shade Bear Shirt Wings 176. Bastien 18. Iron Pipe 58. Crane Chief 99. Crow Chief Le ‘Hirondelle Coal/Cole Black Rabbit Willows Shot Both Sides Red Morning 138. Crying Head 177. Big Smoke 19. L`Hirondelle 59. Eagle Tail Feathers 100. Day Rider Little Shields Cotton Blood Wings Singer Stimpson 139. Curly Rider Small Eyes 178. No Chief 20. Little Shields Crane Chief60. First Charger Bottle 101. DelaneyBlack Plume MacDonald Crow Eagle 140. Davis 21. MacDonald Eagle Tail Feathers 61. First Rider Chief Body 102. DevineBruised Head Many Bears Small Face 179. Scott Four Horns 141. Day Chief Striped Wolf 180. Sitting Bull 62. Hairy Bull Chief Calf 103. Eagle Child McKay 22. Many Bears First Charger Calf Robe Grier 142. Eagle PlumeTwigg 181. McDougall 23. McKay McKenzie First Rider 63. Hind Man Creighton 104. Eagle Speaker Calling Last Big Tobacco 24. McKenzie Night Howler Hairy Bull 64. Hoof Crow Chief 105. Gladstone Crow Eared Wolf 143. Eli Weasel Fat 182. Bull Horn Blue Wings 144. Fox 25. Night Howler Hind Man 65. Iron Old Shoes Day Rider 106. Gros Ventre Crow Boy Spreading Wings White Man 183. Big Snake Little Man Prairie Hen Hoof Delaney Crying Head ManyMan Feathers 107. Heavy Head 145. Good RiderWolf Child 184. Black White 26. Old Shoes 66. Knife Provost 27. Prairie Hen Iron Curly Rider Chief 146. Good StrikerWolf Plume 185. King Spotted Bull 108. Heavy Runner 67. Left Hand Devine Rides At 28. TheProvost Door Knife Davis Bastien 147. Healy 186. Rider 68. Little Bear Eagle Child 109. Hind Bull Round Nose Left Hand 69. Long Time Squirrel Eagle Speaker Day Chief Big Smoke 187. Holy White Man 110. Low Horn 148. Heavy Shields 29. Rides At The Door Simon 30. Round Nose Little Bear 70. Many FeathersGladstone 111. Mills Eagle Plume 149. Holy SingerNo Chief 188. Brown Weasel Smith 31. Simon Long Time 71. Squirrel EliBird Scott Melting TallowGros Ventre Boy 112. Morning 150. Hunt 189. Turning Robe Sollaway32. Smith Many Feathers Heavy Head 113. Morning Fox 72. Mistaken Chief Owl 151. Iron Shirt Sitting Bull 190. Little Moustache Spring Chief Melting Tallow Heavy Runner Good Rider McDougall 73. Mountain Horse 114. Owl Boy 152. Little Shields 191. Strikes With A Gun 33. Solloway Strangling Wolf Mistaken Chief Hind Bull Good Striker Bull Horn 74. Pace 115. Panther Bone 153. Many Chief 192. Little Child 34. Spring Chief Takes The Gun Strong Mountain Horse Low Horn Healy Big Snake 75. Plain Woman Mills 116. Plume Heavy Shields 154. Many Fingers 35. Strangling WolfPace Thin Leggings Black White 193. Steele 36. Takes The Gun 76. Plaited Hair 117. Rabbit 155. Many Grey Horses Strong 77. Quesnelle 118. Red Crane 156. Medicine Crane Stories by Tom Russell 37. Thin Leggings 78. Spear Chief 119. Scout 15 157. Nice Cutter 38. Two Guns 79. Stabsdown 120. Shouting 158. Night Gun NOTICES AND UPCOMING EVENTS MAY 2013 Community Futures Treaty Seven is proud to host the 6th Annual Disability Employment Symposium Event Activities include: Keynote speaker Deb Russell, CEO/President Deb Russell Inc. present on “ How to Ensure Employees with Disabilities Make Business Sense; ” Shayn Anderson present on “ Hitting the Delete Button; ” Presentations; Workshops both days “ K ey Strategies to Meaningful Employment;” an Interactive Panel Discussion and Dialogue: “ What ’ s My Story; ” the Information Networking Booth; and the Mix and Mingle Evening with Richard & Deborah Popovich ’ s Performance “ The Hillbilly's.” To register for the symposium and for updates Please visit www.cft7.ca