Gem september 2014 a

gggggloballoballoballoballobal eeeeeyyyyyesesesesesManitoba African and Caribbean Quarterly Magazine

2rdQUARTERSeptember 2014

Cultural Extravaganza

Global Eyes Magazine September 2014 2

ReflectionBeatrice Watson

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY30TH ANNIVERSARY TO JACOB & KENNY DAODU

Dear Ed,The news of your planned short timerelocation to Saudi Arabia is indeed a verycheering one. I am very pleased and happywhenever I receive this type of news fromclose friends. Saudi Arabia is the new world andwhosoever is gets the opportunity to be theremust thank his God. Besides to have beenselected by Saudi Authorities to work for themshows that you are amongst the best in theworld as they usually go for the best in theworld. They have the money and can afford todo that. Congratulations and more grease toyour elbows.

Our good Lord will continue to guide,guard and give you the wisdom you need tonavigate your way over there. Its well as theLord is in total control. We shall keep in touch as usual.My warm regards to your family. Specialgreetings from my wife Oby and thechildren to all of you.Remain blessed.Chief Chris ObiefunaChairman, South East Economic SummitGroup, Nigeria.

Two prominent community builders fromthe immigrant sderving agencies took theirlast breath suddenly and quickly and leftfamily and friends scrambling for answers,probably fluctuating between rage and griefover the untimeliness of their passing“without the opportunity to say goodbye”.Angelita Esteban Bundoc Maduro, formerBoard memeber of Immigrant Women’sAssociation of Manitoba, Inc. left her hometo attend the Catholic Women’s Leagueconvention far from home on the East Coastof Canada. She did not return but took herlast breath in a strange bed in a hotel room. Also Masoud left for work at WelcomePlace one morning in September and neverreturned. He practically died on the job.Apparently he was getting ready to make

himself a cup of coffee but death stoppedhim. Both of these deaths were unexpected,shocking and left everyone who knew thempuzzled and grief stricken.We are reminded of our own sure demiseat times like these. Death is the price oflife. Anyone who passed through the birthcanal or takes a breath in this physicalworld comes with an expiry date and thatdate is not known to us. It is kept in anenvelope among many and each day aseemingly radom one is picked and oneday it will be yours. Knowing this fact, how are weaccounting for each precious day, eachprecious hour, each precious minute, andeach precious second? Are we living our

fullest or are we postponing what needsto be done now for that illusive,uncertain tomorrow. Do you leave home in anger? Do youremind your loved ones how much youcare? Death’s sting is might hard and itis something that always surprise u.Why? It is as if we truly believe that weare here to live to a certain age and whendeath happens before us it is like therules of living has changed but there isno such thing as guaranteed life. Yes,the Bible speaks about a person livingthree score and ten and with good carecan live well beyond that.OUR CONDOLENCES TO ALL THOSE WHOGRIEVE FOR LOVED ONES AT THIS TIME

CHINESE TRAVELLER PROMOTES THEOLMYPIC SPIRIT AND WORLD PEACE ON ABICYCLE ACROSS THE COUNTRY.

Condolences go out to the family andfriends of Carmen Taylor who recentlypassed away. Ms Taylor was anavid supporter of the Congressof Black Women, a member ofthe Jamaica Folk Ensemble andwas proud of her Jamaicaheritage. RIP.

Also one of the oldest if not the oldestmember of the Caribbean communityrecently passed away “Mother Gaskin”who capped100 years on this earth . Shewas originally from Barbados and anactive member of theBarbados Association. Manycan attest to her kindnessand support of newcomersback in the days. RIP

Ed Oiyenbochi says hello to Saudi Arabia

Global Eyes staff and volunteers join inwishing Ed all the very best in thisexciting venture. May God continue tobless you friend.

Kenny and Jacob beamed the night oftheir 30th Anniversary celebration at thepacked to capacity ImmanuelFellowship Church which wastransformed into a fairytale scene,thanks to the creative work of SelinaBieber and her team. Friends and familytravelled from far and wide to share thismoment with them including their twobeautiful daughters, Dr. Tito and AjokeDaodu who were the emcees of theevening. They shared hilarious storiesabout their parents view of the world as

Global Eyes Magazine September 2014 3 3

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Support Global Eyes Magazine if you think we’re doinga good job.Subscription: $15.00 per year for 4 issues.I Would like to receive upcoming event notices from theCaribbean/Black/larger community - by email or byphone (YES/NO)

IN THIS ISSUEBriefs p5 Did you know p6CMHR Opening p7Congress of Black Women’s p9Justice Sinclair p11It takes a Village p13Healthwise 14 LEG UP p15 and more

Global Eyes is an independent magazine quarterly publicationdevoted to promoting cultural awareness of the African andCaribbean communities of Manitoba and highlighting theissues and concerns of these communities. It also aimsat promoting cultural diversity and appreciation. ItsIt features articles ranging from the achievements of local, national and international personalities and general informationthat are of interest to the African/Caribbeancommunity. It offers editorials with African/Caribbean sensibilities and letters to the editor. TheMagazine is produced under a volunteer editorialcommittee that assists with proof-reading, publicity anddistribution.

Mail cheque/Money Order to: Global Eyes Magazine (GEM)671 Rathgar Avenue,Winnipeg, ManitobaR3L 1G6

Godwin Smith (Alias Smitty) - Daniel McIntyrewardDon Woodstock - St. Charles wardBlessing Feschuk - Transcona wardDonovan Martin - Old Kildonan ward

Big overhaul at City Hall fromspecks to colour to lily white.Was nice dat a latta commun itypeople tried to get an de councilbut next time maybe. I ent sayinnuttin about racism anddiscrimination. Dis means dat dere ismoh wuk fuh we fuh do. Yuh can’t just jump up anrun, yuh have to get people to know you and yuhhave to have a good resume of tings yuh do in yuhcommunity, leh people know yuh man an den yuhcan be elected. Anyway Devi Sharma didn’t get re-elected ah doan whahappen de. Well yuh knowwhat, hats off to dose in the community who put dehats in de ring, now de gatta start wukking fuh denext election. Dat’s how yuh do it. Bout de Mayor’s race, Judy put up a good fight asalways but dis time tings didn’t wuk out fuh she. Ahknow dem women are crying bad because de was allset fuh a woman to tek de chair and bring in mohsocial programs. What do yuh tink Judy is going todo now? Maybe run on a liberal ticken at de nextprovincial election. Won’t put it pas dat woman. Sheis a damn hard worka. Dese men should learn a tingor two from dat woman Meh na know anyting about dis Bowman guy. Heluk like he just spring from nowhere an took de race.An yway change a good. Leh we wait an see nah. Ha, de Ebola gat we spinning pan we heels widfright. Well de politicians gaffuh know dat we are allconnected, de world is wan big village and wahhappen deh gon happen hey. Only till people in deWest start catching de ting de we see some realaction. Now let me see som action wid de haramthugs dat Nigeria is cuddling. Till next time man

CONGRATULATION TO OUR COMMUNITYCONTENDERS FOR CITY COUNCIL SEATS

GAFFIN WID BUDDY


GLOBAL EYES

MAGAZINE

Neil Pitamber,

Lara Badmus, LLB

A prolific writer, poet and owner,Caribbean Shield

GEM’s Regular Contributors

Distributed to local businesses, and inWinnipeg and via email to individualsin Manitoba and former Manitobans invarious parts of the world.

To receive Global Eyes by mail pleasesend a cheque for $15.00 to:Global Eyes Magazine671 Rathgar AvenueWinnipeg, Manitoba R3L 1G6Phone: [email protected]

All contents are (c) 2014 and may notbe reprinted without the express orwritten consent of the author or Editor.

Editor: Beatrice WatsonDIDDIDDIDDIDDID YYYYYOUOUOUOUOU KNOKNOKNOKNOKNOWWWWW?????

Discipline CounselThe Law Society of ManitobaIf your are a minority there is plenty of

opportunity to make history. Take comicMichael Che will make history bybecoming the first Black man to anchor“Weekend Update.” Che will replace Cecily Strong, whowill remain as a full-time cast member. The comedian will join Colin Jost—whois also one of two Head Writers for the

show—at thenews desk,marking thefirst time that“WeekendUpdate” willbe hosted bytwo men.

TIMES ARE A CHANGING

Alexandre Davy de la Pailleterie,aka Alexandre Dumas, aka “BlackDevil was a Count in France under thereign of Napoleon. Duma was born inSaint Domingue modern day Haiti to ablack slave woman and a rebel Frencharistocrat. He was sold briefly intoslavery but made his way to Pariswhere he learned the art of swordfighting as a member of the Frencharistocracy. His fighting skillcatapulted him through the ranks andcommanded armies at the height ofthe French Revolution across Europeand the Middle East. He became thehighest ranking black leader in thewhite world. By age 32 he was Commander inChief of the French army. Eventhough Napoleon admired Dumas hecame to hate him in the end for hisgift and the accolades he wasreceiving. Dumas died at age 43 afterspending time in prison leaving hiswife and three children impoverished.This story was buried for more than200 years but has been resurrectedthanks to his author son AlexandreDumas II. The film “The Black

Count” is being produced bySony Pictures and JohnLegend’s Get Lifted. Makesure you support this filmwhen it comes out.The Black Count wasactually born Thomas-Alexandre Davy de laPailleterie (his aristocratfather’s name), but he wouldeventually take his slavemother’s surname when heenlisted, becoming simplyAlexandre (or Alex) Dumas


BriefsWhat beauty, what excitement, whatbrings theold and theyoung, theable-bodied andthedisabled,the blackand theblue, red ,yellow andall coloursinbetween?Folklorama. It is the ties that bind ourcommunity together. Each communitytakes pride in sharing its roots with theworld, in honouring traditions and thecuisine of the old country. What else would make seniors sit inthe rain umbrellas overhead and a blueponcho that Manitoba Lotteriesinstinctively brought for free publicconsumption on Folklorama openingextravaganza at the Forks Scotia Stageon Saturday July 25, 2014, if notFolklorama. They were there to seeculture in action and did not want tomiss supporting their own culturalheritage. It was beautiful to see the sea

of blue waiting patiently in the rainthe rain passand theevening wascelebrated instyle andsubstance.There werespeeches,performancesandcamaraderieas Folk ArtsCouncilkicked off its

45th Folklorama Festival, the largestfestivals of its kind in the world ofwhich Manitobans are proud of.Events like Folklorama do not happenlike that; it has to be supported by thecommunity at large. Some of the funfacts given out by our affable emceesAce Burpee and.... are 1 milliondrinks are serves, 600,000 mealsprepared by 45 pavilions and 20,000volunteers. Minister of Multiculturalism andLiteracy Hon. Flor Marcelino thankedall the volunteers who sho9w up yearafter year to make Folklorama asuccess.

Time travel with FolkloramaMulticulturalismand LiteracyMinister FlorMarcelinorecentlyannounced thatthe Manitobagovernment isinvesting$200,000 to bedistributed by the

Ethnocultural Support Program (ESCP) tomore than 31 organizations that supportyouth, cultural celebrations, language,heritage and multiculturalism. “Manitobahas always been a multicultural society anddiversity is a fundamental characteristic ofour province,” said Minister Marcelino.“By supporting ethnocultural organizationsto develop the inter-cultural and inter-faithdialogue that builds bridges amongcommunities, these grants enhance ourprovince’s rich cultural diversity, which is asource of pride for us all.” she said. Held at the Manitoba provincial council,Ukrainian Canadian Congress one of theorganizations funded under the program, thePress conference attracted a modest numberof participants. The goal of the ESCP is to preserve,enhance and promote Manitoba’s richcultural heritage and to encouragepartnerships between cultural communitiesto fosterunderstanding.

L to r: Sophia Kachor Executive Director ofOseredok, Oksana Bondarchuk – President ofUCC-MPC with Minister Flor MarcelinoBelow: Pres & VP of CBW: Maureen Gathogpand Dr. Lois Stewart Archer with TehaniJainarine, ED of Multicultualism Secretariat

Daodu’s anniversary contd from p2new immigrants, Many things otherchildren took for granted they were notallowed to do e.g. sleeping over. Theywere tough but loving folks said theirdaughters. The evening was about food,lots of it, all kinds, fun and a joyfulnoise. It was about style and substance.The room was ablaze with colour regalgeles (head wrap) which was a spectaclein itself. Then there was the moneydance which is always fun to watch.Money placed on Kenny to celebrateher. May God bless this couple on theirjourney to their next milestone ofGolden anniversary.

Ajoke & Dr. Tito Daodu, - Women wearinggeles


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Editorial - Take OneSprinkled over theCity of WinnipegAugust 10-16 were45 culturalorganizationscelebrating 2014

Folkorama and created a throw-backovercast effect on the city laced withexcitement and cultural pride.Folklorama was a small folksy ideathat has grown into the biggestfestival of its kind in North America.It is what many in Winnipeg’scultural community plan for a year inadvance and enjoy and endure everysweat and organizational frustrationto celebrate their culture and to makesure Winnipeggers get the best oftheir efforts at their Pavilions. It isthe one time when the old and the

young come together to bask incultural pride. Even though somemay cry out for lack of volunteers itdoes not stop the show from goingon and opening night proves thatobstacles can be overcome. Inmany of the pavilions one findsmore and more Canadian bornvolunteers are donating their timein pavilions that are polar oppositeto their own cultures but that isWinnipeg’s divercity effectworming its way into ourconsciousness, The people ofWinnipeg are truly embodying thediversity that the province valuesand promotes. A White person nolonger feels awkward in theCaribbean pavilion helping to foldroti or serving spicy foods to the

patrons. Curry and roti or dhal puri areno longer foreign words in our culinarylexicon. Within the diversity is ablending that is taking place that willcontinue to break down barriers andcreate a cohesive yet distinctive societywhere differences are celebrated andencouraged because everyone wins,everyone get to enjoy the foods, thedances and the religious beliefs andvalues of the “other”. We get to take thebest of each and make it our own. That’swhat you can organic gelling or unity.Not there yet but getting there.

CMW EID CELEBRATION

The Canadian Council of MuslimWomen’s (CCMW) Winnipeg Chaptercelebrated EID with community membersand friends at the Breezy Bend CounryClub on October 5, 2014. . It was alovely, fun evening of food, candy bar,speeches and entertainment and celebratingWinnipeg’s diverse community. Theguestspeaker was a member of the JewishCommunity. A local hypnotherapist

hypnotized a group of willingparticipants and had one person doingthe Carlton dance of Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. It was a fun evening celebratingWinnipeg’s diversity.

L to R: Fareeda Ashraf, Shereen Abdul-Abed, IshaKhan, Board member, CCMW, Betty Hopkins, LEAF,MB


I’m a volunteer with the CMHR, andwas at the opening of the Museum, butin the public area, adjoining the spacewhere the official proceedings werehappening. There was not a hugecrowd, perhaps because of the weather,and most people who wanted to see theopening, could do by watching TV. The opening was pretty spectacular,starting with a blessing and prayers byFirst Nations. Metis and Inuit. AngelaCassie, the Emcee for the occasion didan excellent job of keeping thingsmoving, in both official languages. TheNational Anthem was stirring, and theGovernor General, who brought themessage from the Queen, spoke of thehope he has for the education of ouryouth on human rights. There followedan excellent video of the construction ofthe site, which impressed everyonebecause of the complexity of the task.Shelly Glover spoke on behalf of thePM, congratulating those who havesupported the CMHR. Entertainmentwas interspersed with the speeches,which was much appreciated. TheTenors were excellent, and the soundsystem worked perfectly. Speeches byGreg Salinger, premier, and Sam Katz,mayor followed, calling the CMHR, theHouse of Hope that we all build.Wonderful Maria Argon sang, with achildren’s choir, and that indeed wasdelightful. But what really broughtdown the house was Gail Asper, whoreceived a standing ovation after shespoke of her father, and how she wasready to pack it in, but because she wasencouraged to continue, she decided tokeeping his vision alive. Everyone loved beautiful and talentedSierra Noble violin performance. Stuart Murray said it is a People’sMuseum, and encouraged debate anddialogue.. Soft spoken Dr. Wilton Littlechildspoke with feeling about treaty rightsare human rights, and how the CMHRwill continue the work of reconciliation,and also to tell the truth about theResidential Schools.

The most moving of the Openingwas the last part, with childrenbringing rocks from the 4 corners ofCanada, and a wonderful youngFirst Nations child brought the lastrock to put in the middle, fromManitoba. CMHR has stirred up healthydiscussions. The issue of the waterwe all drink, from Shoal Lake,while at the same time, the FirstNations from Shoal Lake are boilingtheir water – that is not right. So wewere educated about this issue.Same with the Missing andMurdered Aboriginal Women andGirls. The sound of drums washeard during the openingceremonies, and that was areminder, that Canada hasn’t solvedall its own human rights issues. The day following, I was one ofthe volunteers welcomingWinnipegers to the CMHR, andtaking them on tours. It wasdelightful to see the amazement,and excitement as they walked theramps, and explored the galleries.Although only three of the Gallerieswere open, there was lots to see.I encourage everyone to visit theCMHR. Check out the web site:https://humanrights.ca/ - it’s a goodway to plan your visit, and hope tosee you there!Mary Scott, Volunteer’s perspective

Opening of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights (CMHR)

2014 WESTERN CANADAMUSIC AWARD WINNERS

Diane Dwarka and Mary Scott

ENTERTAINERS

Moses Mayes Band featuring MaikoWatson took home the Urban Awardin this year’s WCMA. Congrats.

Maiko and Nathan Reimer (Bandleader


Regulars

My dear childrenSo much has happened, I don’t knowwhere to begin but it is with gratitudethat I say we are all here and life goeson no matter what happens.Life is a steady stream that flows andfavours no one except those whomake the decision to align themselveswith its flow. It’s like the sunshinewhich is full of vitamin D but if youdecide to remain indoors you will notenjoy its bounties. Choice is abeautiful thing and a beautiful way oflife indeed. I’ve chosen not to becaught up in the fear mongering ofthe Ebola crisis, the crisis in theMiddle East and the crisis of

Global CounsellorDear globalcounselor.I am a Black African and my best friendsince grade 2 is a white girl. We arevery close and I love her dearly butrecently she been saying some thingswhich made me go “Ha?” I amwondering if my friend is a racist. She’sbeen very insensitive about what shesays about Aboriginal people. She feelsthat the missing women deserved whatthey got because they looked for it andwas very unsympathetic to what ishappening, feeling that they should notwaste money to dredge the River. I wasshocked and told her so. I was soshocked that I felt I did not get mypoint across intelligibly. All I could sayis “Are you serious?” However timehas passed but I do not feel right abouthow I feel towards here and I feelhypocritical trying to be nice. I have toexpress my disappointment but some ofmy friends are telling me to let it go andwait for another opportunity.What do you think, should I raise thematter or do I wait for anotheropportunity?Mixed feelings

Dear MixedMy sense is that you want to get thisoff your chest and fast so that yourfriendship could normalize. I thinkfriends need to be honest andupfront with each other. If it cannotstand your honesty then there is nofriendship there. I suggest youapproach the topic sensitively as noone likes to be called a racist andmany times what they do or say theydo not think it is racially motivate.Maybe you can start off by if shereally know anything aboutAboriginal people, does she knowabout their experience with theResidential School, does she knowhow privileged she is being a whiteperson that she can just take life forgranted but it is not so forAboriginal people. Engage her infacts first and then maybe you canshare how you relate to theAboriginal people being a blackperson. I think this could strengthenyour relationship and give you theopportunity to teach your friend athing or two about racism, privilegeand ignorance.

BLUE

My thoat feels so grainyAnd my uvula churnsAnd my vestibules poolWith liquid burnAnd I can hearThe sound of my heartPounding slowlyOne part ventricleTo one part earI comb my handsThrough my hair...You don’t have to haveA model contingency planYou mean more to meThan the whole trebuchetYou have to trust meBlue, I tell youtruthfullyI’m not goinganywhere...

Neil Pitamber,Guyanese Poet

terrorists at our door steps instead Ichoose to use my efforts tomeditate and pray for peace andcompassion for all involved. Youdo not have to be a hostage tocircumstances beyond yourcontrol, choose to do what you canand if you can send peace andlove to the world and especially tothe terrorists, do so; it will havemade a difference if not to anyone,to you. Peace starts with each ofus. The more peaceful we are themore peace there will be. We are being challenged to takestock of the energies that we are

putting out into the world, the waywe live and at the same time therehave never been more spiritualawakening than there is today. It islike the old world order is rolling upand a new one is taking its place andthat’s where my optimism comesfrom. More people are changing forthe better but we sometimes allowthe miniscule bad things that arehappening to cloud our vision of thebigger picture. Stay optimistic andtap in your inner resources and donot allow yourself to be swept up inthis temporary tsunami. The earth ismerely cleansing itself.Love, mom

Letter to my children


Sharing Knowledge across Generations Retreat

More than 30 Black senior andyoung Black women gathered for aweekend retreat at the picturesqueLakeside Resort and ConferenceCentre in Gimli Manitoba sponsoredby Congress of Black Women ofManitoba Inc. to discuss andstrategize the Leadership andEducation for Action Project (LEAP)funded by New Horizons Canada. The weekend, September 19 to 21,sped by quickly as the women workeddiligently engaged in discussions,sharing experiences and listened toeach other in a respectful and trustingmanner guided by the skilledfacilitators, Judith Hayes, Director,Organizational Programs andDevelopment, Manitoba Liquor &Lotteries Corporation and the Directorof the Canadian Gaming Centre ofExcellence and Sylvonne Layne,recently retired Registered Nurse andpastor in the Truth and Life WorshipCentre. The rationale of the retreat was anunderlying belief that “generationsneed to share the seeds of knowledgethey possess; the seniors have thewisdom of years, the middle-aged arecurrently embracing the present andthe youth are forming the future.”There were laughter, camaraderie andhard work all mixed together for anenjoyable and stimulating weekend.New friends were made, people got toknow other Congress members a littlebetter and hidden talents were

revealed. The facilitators continuedto express their amazement of howmuch knowledge was in the roomand how dedicated everyone was toaccomplish the task. The official opening of theRetreat was graced by the Mayor ofGimli His worship LynnGreensberg whom the President Dr.Lois Stewart Archer called upon tobring greetings on behalf of theCouncil. He welcomed the group tohis City and dined with the group

and chatted with several of theparticipants. The mayor wasclearly having a good time withthe Congress. cont’d on p The Saturday and Sundaymorning work sessions wereinteractive with small and largegroup discussions which gaveeveryone the opportunity toparticipate in a manner that wascont on pmfortable for them.

contd on p12


EXIBITION OF HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS FALUN GONG PRACTITIONERS

Femfest 2014 “She’s got the Power” a Sarasvàti annualweek long production of drama, songs, art, poetry and comedywritten by and performed by women depicted yet again it hasstaying power and that people are interested in what womenhave to say. The sold out shows were inspiring, funny, seriousand excellent. Sarasvàti’s mission is to produce theatre that inspireschallenges and encourages positive social change whiledemonstrating artistic excellences according to its pressrelease. “Sarasvàti Productions is a place where artists candevelop and showcase their skills, while celebrating theircreativity and pushing the boundaries of the theatricalmedium. Sarasvàti insists on a theatre that is fulfilling for bothparticipants and audience alike. The company’s vision is oneof inclusion, where artists and audiences of all backgroundscome together to experience what it means to be human.” The opening night cabaret always my favorite saw the returnof the magical, mystical belly dancing women who remindson the wise women of the past shrouded in mystery andgrandeur followed by a variety of tasty cuisine for every taste– all donated by good businesses. In addition to its flagship event, production, FEMFESTSarasvàti Productions sponsors shows and other fun eventsyear round in schools and the community. Earlier in the year the Company brought Fefu to Winnipegwhich was an interactive show that had people moving fromroom to room in the Ralph Connor House, a heritagedesignated home at 54 West Gate. It gave Winnipeggers anew experience of theatre in which the audience becameactive participants in the show. If you would like to find outwhat they’re up to check them out at http://sarasvati.ca/

The Falun Group of Winnipeg hosted the touring art ofZhen Shan Ren (Truth Compassion and Tolerance) at theRed River College Princess Street Campus fromSeptember 13 to 20. The Art produced by a variety ofartists including Canadian artists were not allowed to bephotographed. They depict the gruesome persecution andhuman rights violation of the Practitioners of Falun Gongface in China and at the same time the vision and hope forpeace and a beautiful world. At the exhibition’s opening several political figuresspoke about the need to continue to raise awareness ofwhat is happening to Falun Gong practitioners in Chinaand hopefully China will be One of the active members of the Winnipeg Group in Dr

Maria Cheung, Sociology Professor at the University of Manitoba was presented with a bouquet of flowers. Shethanked City of Winnipeg staff for her encouragement and continued support and the person who made it possibleto have the exhibition in Winnipeg.

FEMFEST 2014 - SHE’S GOT THE POWER


JUSTICE MURRAY SINCLAIR: MANDATORY RESIDENTIAL SCHOOL EDUCATION

Food For Thought – OnWorkplace Diversity I have some food for thought on theconcept of workplace diversity. According to the University ofFlorida, “Diversity is generally definedas acknowledging, understanding,accepting, valuing and celebratingdifferences among people with respect toage, class, ethnicity, nationality, gender,physical and mental ability, race, sexualorientation, spiritual practice, and publicassistance status”. It is not employing diverse people, butfailing to acknowledge, understand,accept and value their differences. That,at best, is paying “lip service” to theconcept of workplace diversity. The exception (to valuing and/oraccepting the differences that inevitablycomes with diversity) could be where anissue arises regarding a bona fideoccupational requirement. However,such issue would need to be objectivelydetermined on principledand not arbitrarygrounds. It is easy for anemployer to declare theircommitment toworkplace diversity—itis much harder for themto put their money wheretheir mouth is.

“Education is the key to mending therelationship between Aboriginal andnon-Aboriginal peoples. It will takegenerations – that’s how it was createdand that’s how it will be fixed”concluded Justice Murray Sinclairwho delivered The Eleventh AnnualSol Kanee Lecture on Peace andJustice on Monday, September 29,2014 at the Investors Group AthleticCentre, University of Manitoba. Introduced by his son, Dr.Niigaanwewidam Sinclair, AssistantProfessor Native Studies, University ofManitoba, Justice Murray, whodescribed his father as a story-tellerand a man who modeled respect andcare for human rights. Speaking on behalf of the Truth andReconciliation Commission of Canada(TRCC) which he chaired, JusticeMurray’s lecture topic “What do we doabout the Legacy of Indian ResidentialSchool?” was based on the interimreport from the Commission entitled“They Came for the Children.” “Canadians have been taught littleor nothing about Aboriginalpeoples,” Justice Murray said andadded that the schools havereinforced the concept of theinferiority of Aboriginal people andthe inherent white superiority. Thosewho resisted this education weresystematically weeded out of thesystem. Justice Sinclair said very fewAboriginal students including hisbrother and sister failed to graduate.

Justice Murray strongly advocatedfor the inclusion of subject ofResidential School in the socialstudies curriculum as a mandatorysubject because if it is offered as anelective, fifty years from now wewould be discussing the same issuesand many people would say “I’vebeen through the school system andwas never taught anything aboutResidential Schools.” He believes that it will improve therelationship between Aboriginal andnon-Aboriginal people if every childis taught about how the Indigenouspeople were treated in the residentialschools. He asked those present tohelp see that this is accomplished. Justice Sinclair spoke about theconnection between the ResidentialSchools and the Child WelfareSystem. He said when the Residentialschools were closed all the childrenwere transferred to the care of theProvincial Child Welfare System.Today most of the children in care areAboriginals. “CFS is saving children from neglectand harm; this neglect and harmcreated them. We cannot give thesaviour credit as the saviour is theprimary perpetrator. Even though theschools have closed, the legacy is stillwith us. It lives on in the children whodo not know their language, culture,their lack of self respect, seen assneaky, treacherous, parents living ininstitutions because they received nopositive parenting. The legacy stilllives on in Canadians whointernalized the ignorance of the past.Non-Aboriginals have been educatednot to respect Aboriginal people.” The missing and murderedAboriginal women are also linked tothe Residential School System and themarginalization of Aboriginal peoplesin general. Justice Murray presented a briefbackground of the history of the TRC.He said the uniqueness of thisCommission is that it does not reportto the government. The Commissioncame about as a result of a lawsuitagainst the government and churches.

Lara BadmusA Lawyer in Winnipeg

Get well wishes go out to our dear sisterJoy Bissoon who is experincing somehealth challenges. We wish you well andare sending you postive vibrations for aspeedy recovery. Also to Mary Barzey for her neicewho is also facing health challenges. Wewish her well soon.

GET WELL WISHES


“There is no way to communicate theimportance of the TRCC except to hear from thevoices of the survivors” said Justice Sinclair andclips of these voices were interspersed in hislecture. Justice Sinclair noted that abuse is not the onlystory. He said most children were not physicallyor sexually abused. “However all the childrenhave been damaged in some way throughloneliness, hostility, oppression, separation fromparents and the denial of any pride in theirculture.” He added that residential schools arenot inherently wrong but it is the compulsory andabusive nature of the Indian Residential Schoolsthat was wrong. “The agreement is flawed” said JusticeMurray. He stated there were strict conditions forinclusion with 1300 schools excluded which willpresent a problem to reconciliation. He stated that there are two ways a person cancollection compensation. There is the CommonExperience Fund which pays a student $10,000for the first year and $3,000 for each subsequentyear. To date $1.6 billion have been paid out witheach student receiving an average of $19, 412.The second fund is the Independent AssessmentFund totalling $2.3 billion with an average of$115,000 paid out to 37,000 claimants so far. “The road to reconciliation will not be easy withso many people unhappy about the process.However, Justice Sinclair said that he isdetermined to deliver a report by July 1, 2015.

SYVONNE LAYNE AND JUDITY HAYES_FACILITATORS

SMALL GROUP DISCUSSION

SOME OF THE PAST PRESIDENT OF THECONGRESS

THE OVERSIGHT TEAM

STANDING OVATION FOR JUSTICE SINCLAIR

Sinclair contd from p11 Retreat contd from p9 here were round tablediscussions on four topics:Professional Leadership, FamilyLeadership, and CommunityLeadership with a wrap upsummary presentation by thefacilitators highlighting keyissues brought forward in eacharea. Hats off to the oversightCommittee composed onPresident, Dr. Stewart Archer,Vice President MaureenGathogo, Immediate pastPresident, Antoinette Zolty,Treasurer Ariane Tall, andSocial Director Tatenda Bwawa.And those who did all the legwork were LEAP CoordinatorValerie Williams and CheneneLayne as her AdministrativeSupport. “Participating in suchworkshops helps us to learnmore about leadership and theissues affecting seniors andyouth. Based on what wediscussed and discovered eachof us are expected to develop aplan for the action weindividually will take to improvethese conditions.Our goal is that more respectful,understanding relationships andappreciation will be built acrossthe generations. We are eachresponsible for our own actionplan and the goal is for each ofus to speak to at least 10 otherpeople about our discussions atthe retreat and the positivechange each of us can bring.This is an opportunity for eachof us to plan for the future and,by doing so, create newrelationships acrossgenerations.” concluded ValerieWilliams, Project Coordinator.

REMINDER: Women’s HistoryMonth celebrations at the LegOctober 29, 11:45 am to 1:00 pm.Theme: Celebrating Women inLeadership


AUTHOR SHARES HER STORY TO INSPIRE OTHERS

Are you living in an abusiverelationship? What is keeping you there? Hope?Fear, loyalty, religion or lack of self-worth? It could be any one of these thingsbut whatever is holding you there youhave to ask yourself, is it worth it? Is itworth it to live in fear, to be trampled on,discounted and in the constant dread ofdisappearing? It is time you sit up andtake a look around and know that youdeserve better and make peace with thefact that your partner does not love youanymore and you have two choices tomake. You stay or you leave. If you havechildren and you allow yourself to betreated like a door mat, what is thatteaching your children? That to be treatedlike a door mat is okay and that youdeserve what you are getting. You may be suffering from the StockholmsyndromeStockholm Syndrome - I love him and can’thelp but defend him; I can’t survivewithout himThis phenomenon is what gives the abuserthe ultimate control over his/her victim. TheStockholm Syndrome refers to the mental,emotional and physical bond that hostagesexperience as they empathize and becomeemotionally attached, even forming aromantic bond with the kidnapper/hostagetaker on whom they depend for survival. Inthe context of a marriage or romanticcoupling, the abuser has even greater powerover this abused victim who often shares achild and also depends on the abuser forfood, water, shelter and affection. She trulyfeels and believes she can’t live or survivewithout the abuser.

Well loved son of Jamaicaand the pride of the entireBlack community, Chief DevonClunis was the guest speaker atthe Congress of BlackWomen’s Scholarship AwardsFundraising Gala on SaturdayOctober 11, 2014 held at theCanad Inn Casino Hotel. Dear to his heart, the futureof the next gener-ation, hisspeech was a cry from the heartfor the people of hiscommunity in particular thewomen whom he addressed tothink about the future of ouryouths and the changes theycan make to ensure that theirfuture is bright. Even though he was raised by astrong black woman, whom herespects, he said growing up withouta father left a hole, something wasmissing. In speaking from his heartand not wanting to offend anyoneChief Clunis kept repeating “listenwith your heart,” he said as he quotedstatistics and research whichconcluded that children from loneparent families are more likely to beinvolved in criminal behaviours thanchildren in two-parent families andthat 8 out of 10 single parenthouseholds are led by lone femalesand that Manitoba and Nova Scotiahave the highest number of singleparent families and black children aremore likely than others to live in loneparent families. Not surprisingly, black youths arebeing incarcerated at a much higherrate than before. “We are setting ourchildren up for failure” he saidadding “If we want our children toreach their potential are we have dosomething different and thisorganization (CBW) can be achampion. There is another way.”Chief Clunis say that it was hismotivation to help black kids in hiscommunity that led him to be a police

officer. He wanted a better life forthem. “Women have been a strongfoundation in my life, beginningwith my mother, my sister whowas like a second mother and mywife who supports me with apeaceful loving home and manywomen in our community.”Chief Clunis urged young womento wait for their prince and to sayto themselves “I am a princess andI would wait for my true princeand then I would be the queen. Donot settle for anything less. Wemust also raise our sons to respectwomen.”The biggest influence on youngpeople is mom and dad but thecommunity also needs to be a partof it. We need to give authority toothers in the community tointervene.” He called on his community toreach out and build bridges withother ethnic groups and createstrong intercultural relationshipswith them and in particular withthe Aboriginal community andother marginalized groups.

Congrats to CouncillorMike Pagtakhan for winninghis seat for the fourth consecutive year.He serves his community well. We wishyou all the best in the newterm and hope that youcontinue to serve the PointDouglas community as youhave done in the past.

IT TAKES A VILLAGE TO RAISE A CHILD


HEALTHWISE

Let your food bemedicine and yourmedicine be food.Hippocrates

TUNE IN TO RAS RICOI SELASSIE AT CKUW

95.9 FM - RADIO TOAWAKEN THE MIND

Health tips by EvangelistLester Roloff

1. Eat uncooked food one day each week.2. Fast at least three meals a week.3. Do not eat fast.4. Do not drink things real hot or real cold.5. Do not drink liquids with your meals.6. Drink your fruit juices at least f45 minutesbefore you eat and wait at least two hours afteryoueat before you drink fruit juices or vegetablejuices.7. DO NOT eat starches, sugar, or sweet fruitssuch asraisins, dates, and figs with meats or fruits suchasgrapefruit, oranges, lemons, apples, pears,peaches,8. Avoid fried foods, gravies, hot sauces, andblack pepper.9. Drink a lot of pure water.10. Do not eat late at night.11. Since food is sanctified by the Word of Godand prayer, quote a verse of Scripture and alwaysask the Lord to bless the food.12. Young people, remember that a goodcomplexion does not come out of a jar or abottle, but out of your stomach. A healthy outsidecomes from a healthy inside.13. Make your own toothpaste out of salt andsoda. The dentist will tell you this is safer andbetter for your teeth.14. Take a good fast walk every day,concentrating on breathing deeply. It’s better towalk early in the morning when things are freshand you get your purest air.15. Wear the most comfortable shoes i16. Do not wear clothes that interfere with thecirculation.17. Do not be afraid of sunshine. T18. Sleep on a hard bed and learn to sleepon your back. Your framework is in yourback, but if you sleep on Your stomach orside, you are likely to impair the organsOf your body and many times developcricks in your neckAnd in your arms. I would rather sleep threehours on a hard bed than four on a soft bed.19. Do not sleep in a room with the gasturned on because it will burn out theoxygen. Keep plenty of fresh airin the room.20. Try to be asleep by ten o’clock and notlater than eleven. One hour before midnightis worth two after midnight.21. Do not be deceived either by theadvertisements or by the great intellects.Good food and good health habitsreally work. Find out what your body needsand faithfully provide it.22. Don’t compare money or time withhealth. Health is priceless.

3 lbs (1.5 kg) cubed stewing beef2 to 3 tbsp (30 to 45 mL) olive oil6 large tomatoes1 large onion3 large garlic cloves2 tsp (10 mL) finely grated freshginger or 2 tsp (10 mL) bottledchopped ginger400 mL can unsweetened coconutmilk, not light1 tbsp (15 mL) dried oreganoleaves2 tsp (10 mL) hot red chili flakes1 tsp (5 mL) salt½ tsp (2 mL) freshlyground black pepper19 oz (540 mL) canblack beansS! cup (75 mL)chopped freshcoriander or basil orparsley

1. Pat beef dry with paper towel.Heat 1 tablespoon (15 mL) oil in alarge wide saucepan over medium-high heat. Add about one-third ofbeef. Turn occasionally untilbrowned on all sides, 5 to 6minutes. Remove pieces as they aredone to a plate. Reduce heat tomedium if beef starts to burn.Repeat with remaining beef in 2batches, using more oil as needed.Meanwhile, cut tomatoes into thickwedges. Coarsely chop onion andgarlic. Finely grate ginger.2. Return all of meat back to panalong with any accumulated juices.Stir in onion, garlic, ginger and thentomatoes along with any seeds andjuice. Add coconut milk. Sprinkle

with oregano, chili flakes, saltand pepper. When it comes to aboil, reduce heat to medium-low.Cover and simmer, stirringoccasionally, until beef is tender,about 1½ hours. Meanwhile, drainand rinse beans. Thenstir in beans for last 15minutes of cooking.Taste, then add moreseasoning, if needed.Stir in coriander.Sprinkle coriander leaves overtop,if you like.

• Make ahead Preparerecipe up to point ofadding coriander.Place in a container,seal and freeze up to 1month. Reheat inmicrowave or onstovetop over mediumheat, covered and

stirring often. Stir in coriander.

BRAZILLIAN BEEF AND TOMATOES

Pita Crisps1 1/2 whole-wheat pita rounds1 medium garlic clove, smashed1 tablespoon olive oilSalt and black pepper to tasteInstructionsPreheat oven to 350° F, In mediumbowl, toss tomatoes with oil, saltand pepper. Roast 10 to 15minutes, until softened, shakingpan occasionally. Keep oven at350° F. In small cup, stir smashedgarlic into oil. No need to chopthe garlic to flavor the pita; justsmash the clove with the flat edgeof your chef’s knife and toss thewhole thing in the olive oil. Cut 1pita into 8 even double-layer

contd on p16


Leg Up He praised Winnipeg’sdiversity that has the potential ofbeing one of the most successfuland equitable city in the world.He strongly believes that thesecret of crime prevention is insocial development and buildingcommunity capacity. Chief Clunis said he believesin the potential of youths and allthey need is leadership. He saidthe according to a survey of 1800youths in Winnipeg between theages of 14 and 29, the numberone issue for them is poverty,housing, homelessness and safetyeducation. “I am encouraged ouryouths are poised to revolutionizethe world.” Chief Clunis received astanding ovation for an inspiringspeech.

CHIEF CLUNIS BENDS TO RECEIVE AGIFT FROM ONE OF THE LITTLESTCONGRESS MEMBERS

The highlight of theCongress of BlackWomen’s annual gala banquet is thescholarship awards ceremony. This yearFour bring young women receivedscholarships of about $600.00 eachtowards their post secondary education:Bisala Idrissa, University of Manitoba,Family social science, Brittany Lalond,Toronto College of Dental Hygiene,Constance Chiweoke Amadi, Universityof Manitoba Faculty of Nursing andKurne Williams, University of WinnipegBachelor of Arts, Criminal Justice. The stewrd of the entire evening’spogram was Maurtha Gatho, icePresident and Dr. Lois Stewart Archerhad the satisfying task of reading the biosof each scholarship rec ipient. In keeping with the theme: Year of theGirl Child, there were some impromptuspeeches by a few young girls thatinspired the audience. The proceeding of the even went welland many danced to the sounds of DJDesiree to the close after culturalentertainment by the Rwanda dancersgroup.

L to r : Maureen Gathogo presented to Brittany Lalonde’smother on Brittany’s behalf; Hope Mattus presented toKurne Williams; Joan Lloyd presented to Bisala Idrissaand Vernie Price presentedto Kurne Williams;.Scholarship winnerwith the presenters and Dr. LoisStewart-Archer. Top Left: Ms Danielle Archeracknowledge Past Presidents..

YOUTH SPEAKERS

Rwandan dance group

Clunis contd from p13

Scholarship Award Winners


THANK YOUWINNIPEG FOR 25GREAT YEARS AND

MORE TO COME

triangles. Separate each triangle into 2 wedges. Repeat with halfof another pita, for a total of 24 wedges. Place pitas, split-side upin a single layer on a baking sheet. Brush with garlic oil; sprinklewith salt and pepper. Bake 7 minutes, until crisp and golden.Cool. Top crisps with tomatoes, feta and olives. Garnish with arosemary leaf. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Brazilian stew beef cont’d from p14

When you shop at orest PeopleCrafts you are helping forestpeople support thecrafters’families. We’re on the2nd Floor #226 of The Fork’sMarket, One Forks Market

A MAN TO WATCH

Even though Mr. FalconOuellette did not becomethe mayor this time, thepotential is there. Hecame third after JudyWasylycia-Leis, aseasoned politician. Mr.Robert-Falcon Ouelletteis a member of the RedPheasant Cree Nation andis here seen here early inthe campaign onMulticulturalism Day atthe Forks with hisbeautiful daughterspreading his message.

Gem september 2014 a

News & Politics

Transcript of Gem september 2014 a