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First Peoples@Seneca Newsletter

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

Traditional Teaching With Blu Wa-ters……………………………….1 Calendar …………………...…….2 Alumni Spotlight………………...3 From the Ambassadors……..…..4 Meet your Supporting Cast ..…...5 Meet your Office Staff ….………6 Aboriginal Headlines ……..… ….7 Jobs Classifieds……………..…...8 Learn the Language……….…...10 Student Input ……………….….11 Student Creative Writing...…….12 Thunderbird Nesting Art……...13 A-List Program…………………14 Aboriginal Education Council….15

F e br u ar y 2 0 1 5 V o l um e 1 , I s s u e 1

Traditional teachings are a

collection of stories , life ex-

periences, ways of learning

that have been learned or

passed on from generation to

generation. A person who

carries this information is

known as a traditional

knowledge keeper. This infor-

mation is specific to a culture

and their lifestyle, such as be-

liefs views, ways of life.

What medicines are used

for healing

How land is important to

our survival

Sharing information on

how to resolve conflicts

what are our roles respon-

sibilities

The protocols of ceremony

This information is primarily

delivered orally , as the infor-

mation is passed on person to

person. It is important to de-

liver the information orally as

the listener has an input to

question and understand

what is being taught as we all

have different ways of learn-

ing and comprehension. The

teachings are tailored to the

person, group, receiving

them.

Welcome to our first newsletter from the First Peoples @ Seneca! Our goal is to pro-

mote our traditional teachings, our achievements, our events and provide helpful infor-

mation to help with life in Toronto, and continuing education. If you would like to help

with our newsletter, have information you would like to share, or have a personal

achievement you would like to share, contact us! We would love to share your story.

Andrew Desjarlais, Sr. Student Ambassador,

aldesjarlais@myseneca.ca

First Peoples @ Seneca D 2339 Newnham Campus 416.491.5050

Indigenous Wisdom

Humankind has not woven the

web of life.

We are but one thread within it.

Whatever we do to the web,

we do to ourselves.

All things are bound together.

All things connect.

Chief Seattle, 1854

Non-Indigenous Knowledge

"It's ridiculous to think people would say: I have all this land, millions and millions and mil-lions of acres of land, I'm giv-ing it to you for a piece of land that is 5 miles by 5 miles and a few dollars a year. To put it in terms of a real estate transac-tion, it's preposterous, it doesn't make any sense."

-Bob Rae

Traditional Teaching with Blu Waters

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We would like to thank Roxanne Kropf, our very own alumni for her continued support in providing recent information sharing at First Peo-ples at Seneca. She is now employed with Miziwe Biik employment and training whom continues to assist our indigenous students.

For more information on what is available from

Miziwi Biik contact her at:

167 Gerrard Street East Toronto ON M5A 2E4

Tel: (416) 591-2310 Fax: (416) 591-3602

Email: reception@miziwebiik.com

Looking to Help out at the Panam Games?

Spotlight on our Alumni, Roxanne Kropf

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Meet our Student Ambassadors!

Our student Ambassadors are fellow students like yourself here to help you succeed in Seneca College.

Here is a glance at our Student Ambassadors at First Peoples @ Seneca.

Hello everyone! I am Andrew Desjarlais. My heritage is Ojibwe, Sandy Bay first nation. I am the senior student ambassador in the 6th semester of the Fire Engineering program. I come from a very big family, from a village outside of Ottawa. Outside of school I am an Ironworker, based out of Ottawa. My re-cent adventures had me working on an oil extraction plant north of Fort McMurray, building the new subway platform at Jane and Steeles, and building the Redblack’s stadium in Ottawa. I will be available Monday, Thursday, and Fri-day at the office, or by email anywhere else.

Hello, friends! My name is Saja Elchami. I am one of the four student ambassadors here at First Peoples at Seneca and I am in my second semester of the Bachelor of Child Development program. My native ancestry comes from my grandmother on my mother’s side. We come from the Cherokee na-tion in the United States. Some of my hobbies include reading, being out-doors, and being active. In the future, I hope to be working with children with disabilities, particularly learning disabilities. I want to help them over-come some of the challenges they might have and give them the opportunity to excel in their skills and not let them feel like their challenges are weighing them down. I am available in the office mostly every day of the week, except for Monday. Stop by and say hi!

Hello, my name is Darrell Mixemong. I am 29 years of age and identify my-self as a First Nation. I am currently a student taking the 3 year Environmental Technology Program at the Newnham Campus. I am an Ojibwe from a small village commonly known as Christian Island or the reservation of Beausoleil First Nation which is a 3 hour drive north toward Georgian Bay, just north of Wasaga Beach. I came here to Toronto and lived here for about seven years and worked in many different fields such as Rough Carpentry, a Solar techni-cian, Manufacturing and Eco Restoration. My interests are to help the environ-ment in some aspect as I pursue my education.

Aaniin (Hello) My name is Amy. I am one of the many student ambassa-dors in the FirstPeoples@Seneca office. I come from Wasauksing First Nation, a small community near Parry Sound Ontario. I am in my second semester of Ra-dio Broadcasting. After I graduate I plan to go back to my community, and be a part of the Rez91 radio station. I am working on finishing my program as soon as possible. So I will be attending school during the summer. This is my second semester of being a student ambassador. I enjoy being a part of the First Peo-ple @Seneca family. They have a way of making the office feel like a home away from home. I encourage students to come in and visit. I am available eve-ry other Wednesday at Seneca@York, and Thursday's Friday's at the Newham campus, or email me at aking16@myseneca.ca. Miigwetch!

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Cathy Smith is our Sr. Office Assistant for First Peoples @ Seneca, Cathy

works with the First Peoples @ Seneca team to support Indigenous stu-

dents who are enrolled in various Seneca College academic programs. Ser-

vices include working closely with the coordinator to meet requirements

for various activities from maintaining recording systems to meeting

minutes reflecting culturally sensitive and appropriate services. To contact

Cathy email her at - cathy.smith@senecacollege.ca

Aanii, from the Desk of our Coordinator

It is wonderful to have the first edition of our Newsletter out to you all. A special Chi Miigwetch to our student Ambassadors Andrew “Drew” Desjarlais & Saja El-chami for the hard work on this accom-plishment. I am so appreciative we can

share the stories of our Indigenous students here at Seneca College. In addition, we will share how First Peoples @ Seneca continues to build relationships in the greater college community and, the community at large, establishing meaningful connections for our First Nation, Inuit and Metis students. We are so proud of student achievements and invite you to share with us any success highlights of our current students and Alumni for future Newsletter editions. Look for the Alumni Spotlight and see where our Senecans are to-day! First Peoples @ Seneca is constantly striving to enfold the beauty and pride of our cultural integrity in

all areas of our services. We welcome you to join in the fun with us and the Seneca Indigenous Council where we:

Support and honor student achievement

Offer students and staff the opportunity to experi-ence traditional practices such as ceremony, annu-al cultural trips, invitational ice fishing, and hosting speakers.

Share traditional knowledge to enhance curriculum with classroom presentations.

Include traditional teachings, medicines, teas and food at our various events & activities. To ceate greater cultural understanding. Including the pro-moting of traditional Indigenous art & more….

An extra special Miigwetch to the community Elders, special guest Jennifer Podemski, Aboriginal communi-ty advisory group, staff and volunteers for our recent successfully held Thunderbird Nesting Indigenous Art event. It was amazing to celebrate Artistic expression in Culture and Tradition together! Baa maa pii, (Until next…), Peggy Pitawanakwat Anishinaabe Kwe, Thunderbird Clan, Wikwemikong peggy.pitawanakwat@senecacollege.ca ext. 22953

Hello, my name is Laureen (Blu) Water, I go by Blu. I am a member of the

Metis nation of Ontario, from the Wolf Clan. My family is from the Star Blan-

ket reserve in Big River Saskatchewan and Cape Breton Nova Scotia. I am

currently working at York University as a one-on-one counselor and also as

an elder on campus providing traditional teachings. I studied landscaping

and horticulture for four years and I was also the national caucus representa-

tive for the Toronto urban aboriginal strategy for 5 years working with the

community of Toronto and Government. I am also a graduate of DeVry Insti-

tute of Technology in business software, micro computer architecture. I am

available Monday, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM.

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Aanii, Boozhoo from Karen White, Aboriginal Student Counsellor

Welcome to our first edition newsletter. This newsletter will provide up-to-date info in all areas relating to our programming, as well as resources from the greater Aboriginal Toronto community. We hope to develop the newsletter in time, so your feedback and writing contributions are wel-comed.

A little about my heritage. I’m originally from Wikwemikong First Na-tion (Wiky) and I am Odawa/Potawattami. My clan is Thunderbird, adopted

from my Grandfather’s Clan. My roots are with the Pitawanakwat family on my maternal side. My paternal side is with the Corbiere family. I am a grandparent child and was born and raised in Wiky

So, please feel comfortable to come by and see me if you have any concerns or questions academi-cally, personally, career oriented or with funding/sponsorship requests. We have great relationship with the greater Aboriginal community in the city therefore we can make referrals depending on the need. I have an open door policy, come by anytime. I have a campus visit schedule, contact me for more info. Or, you can also email me at Karen.white@senecacollege.ca or call at: 416.491.5050 Ext. 22776.

Looking forward to meeting with you all at some point during your academic stay at Seneca. So, stay motivated, get into a routine of spending time on your studies everyday, ask for support – no matter what the concern is. We’re here help you be successful!

Nahow, Ga waab minim (ok, see you all soon).

Melissa (Missy), Fishman is the senior Support Officer for First Peo-

ples @ Seneca. Melissa works with the First Peoples @ Seneca team to en-

gage, guide and support Indigenous students who are enrolled in various

Seneca College academic programs. Programming includes individual stu-

dent academic success plan, student workshops reflecting culturally sensi-

tive and appropriate services. Highlighting just a few, tutor support, A-list

program incentive, guest speakers, bursary assistance and campus tours.

To contact Melissa email her at - melissa.fishman@senecacollege.ca

Like us on Facebook to get updates and view pictures from

out events! You can find us at “First Peoples at Seneca ”

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Aboriginal Headlines

We have a new national chief of Canada, Chief Perry Bellegarde. A

member of the Little Black Bear First Nation in Saskatchewan, he has

served as a band councilor in Little Black Bear, as chief of the Federa-

tion of Saskatchewan Indian Nations and as the Saskatchewan re-

gional chief of the Assembly of First Nations. He plans to:

Revitalize and retain the indigenous languages

Uphold indigenous rights as human rights in international forums

An immediate action plan and inquiry into Missing and Murdered

Indigenous Women and Girls

Seneca Indigenous Council

We are making plans to start up again and we need you! We will be setting up work-shops, aiding the

native community, and assisting with the First Peoples@Seneca office. Elections for the following

positions are available for Secretary/Treasurer, President and Vice President. The date of election will

be posted soon. Stay tuned!

We would like to thank Anishnawbe Health Toronto for making

sweats available to our students, once they register with anish-

nawbe Health to be available to our students . We would also like

the thank them for their continued support for all our aboriginal

students (status, non-status, Inuit, and metis ) For more infor-

mation on what traditional services or inquiring into sweats or oth-

er services contact..

Anishnawbe Health Toronto, 225 Queen Street East

Toronto, ON, M5A 1S4

Ph. 416 360-0486 X231

Fax 416-365-1083

Helpful Resources to Learn the Ojibwe Language

Ojibwe People’s Dictionary - http://ojibwe.lib.umn.edu/

Freelang Ojibwe - http://freelang.net/dictionary/ojibwe.php

Ojibwe Medical Dictionary - http://www.slmhc.on.ca/assets/files/traditional-healing/

medical_dictionary_oibwe.pdf

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The Classifieds

Job Postings for You!

RECEPTIONIST Job Type: Temporary, Part-Time Contract Duration: 4 Months Salary/Rate: $24.00 - $26.29 / Hour Qualifications for this position include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Experience performing administrative and clerical duties with a working knowledge of standard office practices and procedures.

2. Experience and proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite specifically Word and Excel.

3. Customer service experience working with clients, service providers, the general public and/or staff to address service inquiries, re-quests and/or complaints.

4. Ability to perform routine clerical tasks with speed and accuracy.

5. Excellent oral and written communication skills including good mathematical ability.

To view the complete job posting and to apply, please review the link below: https://www.brainhunter.com/frontoffice/seekerViewJobDetailAction.do?site-code=pl553&jobId=2099645&page=search&external=

If you require assistance applying to this posting or would like help with your job search, please visit your nearest community employment center or TESS Em-ployment Centre (EC).

For more information about this opportunity, con-

tact: Mary Rose De Luca at 416-397-4897

Position: Policy Development Officer Employer: City of Toronto, Shelter, Support & Hous-ing Administration (SSHA) Wage: $88,970.89 - $104,540.80 per year Qualifications for this position include, but are not limited to, the following:

Post secondary education in a public administra-tion or social science discipline.

Experience in strategic planning and policy analy-sis and development with an emphasis on home-lessness, housing and shelter services.

Experience in social science research methodolo-gies and techniques and demonstrated experi-ence in writing comprehensive complex and for-mal reports

Experience in designing and implementing pro-grams and understanding of the Federal/Provincial/Municipal and community funding rela-tionship.

Experience in project management, including project design, development and implementation and the ability to meet deadlines.

Excellent strategic and conceptual skills to devel-op creative solutions in combination with strong research, analytical and conflict resolution skills.

Considerable knowledge of relevant legislation affecting the hostel system, housing operations and supports.

Ability to effectively train, motivate and supervise staff, with an ability to work both independently and to lead effective teams.

Familiarity with government legislation in the ar-ea of Occupational Health and Safety.

APPLY ONLINE NOW: To view complete job posting and to apply, please review the link below: https://www.brainhunter.com/frontoffice/seekerViewJobDetailAction.do?site-code=pl551&jobId=2093537&page=search&external=

For more information about this opportunity, con-

tact: Angela Colangelo at 416-392-4327.

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The Classifieds

Job Postings for You!

Student Recruitment Officer 2 Month Contract

Position Description Summary of Key Responsibilities (job functions in-clude but are not limited to):

Making presentations to varied audiences Contacting First Nation Education Offices Creating promotional materials, flyers, brochures

etc. Providing information services (in groups, in per-

son, on the phone, via email) to prospective students and families

Assisting prospective students with the applica-tion process

Ensuring detailed knowledge of NCTP and ONE-CA programs, services, enrolment policies and procedures are current and articulated

Representing ONECA and NCTP in a professional manner at various outreach events

Updating materials Advertising the program via, social media, Native

newspapers, OSCA, Teachers Associations Preparation of presentations and information

sessions Ensuring that recruitment goals are met and ex-

ceeded Establish a work plan and a recruitment strategy Summarize reports of trips and activities Preparation of budgets for travel, accommoda-

tion and recruitment materials Qualifications/Requirements

Diploma in marketing and promotion Understanding of Indian Residential School and

the Common Experience Payment Process Familiar with the Native Counsellor Training Pro-

gram Experience in public speaking Demonstrated familiarity of Aboriginal communi-

ties and culture Demonstrated knowledge about Aboriginal Edu-

cation and the needs of Aboriginal Students Excellent oral and written communication skills Ability to manage time and coordinate travel, ma-

terials and events Able to take direction, but is self-directed and

demonstrates initiative within ONECA Must have a valid driver license and reliable vehi-

cle Must provide a CPIC Able to travel and work flexible hours

Application Deadline: Friday, February 13, 2015 We would like to thank all applicants in advance for submitting their resumes. Please note only those can-didates chosen to continue on through the selection process will be contacted. Applications and 3 references can be sent to: Ontario Native Education Counselling Association P.O. Box 220, 37 A Reserve Road Naughton, Ontario P0M 2M0 Attention: Roxane Manitowabi Email: oneca@oneca.com

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Welcome to Aambe Anishinaabemdaa!

Hoping to pass on “the language” in a fun and relaxed setting.

Let’s get started!

Kinoomaage (sounds like: Keh no maw geh)

Teaching

Pictured: Peggy Pitawanakwat

Student rock painting workshop

Gigooh (sounds like: gee “like KEY”

go) Fish

Taken from the student annual invita-

tional fishing trip Ice Fishing trip to Lake

Scugog Jan/15

Gimaa or Ogimaa (sounds like: geh

maw) Chief

Pictured: Roxanne Kropf-Salami, Seneca

Alumni

Duke Peltier, Chief of Wikwemikong

Unceded First Nation taken at our cul-

tural trip summer 2014

Giigoohkewuk(g) (sounds like:

Gee “like KEY” go keh wug) They

are fishing

Aambe Anishinaabemdaa - (Let’s

speak Anishnaabemowin

“Ojibway/Odawa”).

Ojibway/Odawa vowels for better pronuncia-

tion of the language:

a - sounds like the “u” in sun

aa - sounds like the “a” in father

i - sounds like the “i” in sit

ii - sounds like the “ee” in feet

o - sounds like the “o” in go

oo - sounds like the “oo” in food

e - sounds like the “ay” in stay

Aanii (sounds like: Ah knee) means “Hello”

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The Teaching I (Saja Elchami) received From Peggy, our Coordinator

What is a Smudge?

Includes a blend of sacred plants burnt to create smoke

carrying our prayers to the Creator. For times of great happiness

for thanksgiving and times of despair for spiritual strength.

The smudging ceremony is a purification ceremony. Some-

times all of the sacred medicines are used. However, any one of

the four sacred medicines can be used. The most common one is

mshkwadewashk, referred to as sage in English. These medicines

are picked from the natural environment we call Mother Earth for

the purpose of cleansing and purification.

The four sacred medicines are sema, / tobacco; kiishig / cedar, mshkwadewashk / sage and wiingash / sweetgrass. The smudging ceremony can take place anytime. The smoke from the sacred medicine purifies the person and sur-roundings. Most people who smudge use a shell or a flat rock to place the medicines on and usually eagle feathers are used to fan the medicines. If a person does not have eagle feathers, then oth-er feathers can be used.

The Teaching I (Kelly Johnson)

Received From Blu, our Elder

on Campus.

What are ways to use Bear Root? First Nation people learned to use bear root from the bears. The bears tend to chew the roots of the bear root into a dilute paste and rub the maceration into their fur by rolling on it and covering their bodies with its fragrance. It is be-lieved that they do this to save themselves from harmful parasites and infections. They also tend to eat it when they come out of hibernation in order to cleanse their digestive system.

The oils, seeds, and roots of this warming herb can be utilized for purposes such as: Antiviral - eliminates viruses to cure illnesses such

as flu or respiratory disorders Carminative - helps in gas discharge from stomach/

intestines Decongestant - removes congestion Diaphoretic - helps in increasing perspiration Diuretic - enhances the flow of urine Expectorant - aids in excavating mucus Stimulant - promotes activity

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Indigenous people in Canada It is my experience that, as Indigenous people we pre-fer to identify ourselves by specific local terms such as family, Nation of origin, confederacy, location, clan and traditional names. They may or may not be supportive of other general terms such as “Aboriginal,” or “Indian” that arise out of European or international legal frameworks, and group them in with other groups who they may not consider related. “Aboriginal” and “Indigenous” is least contentious and the most inclusive general terms currently used in Can-ada. In most conversations, using “Indian” or “Native” is no longer the norm. In many contexts, the use of “Indian,” may be viewed as offensive. Section 35 of the Canadian Constitution Act, 1982 "recognizes and affirms" the "existing" aboriginal and treaty rights in Canada. “First Nations” is a widely accepted term and may be used sometimes generally, but is increasingly used spe-cifically for First Nations vs reserve or band. Agree-ments including Treaties involving land and resources with the Canadian Government in exchange for unique rights. A First Nations person is also referred to as hav-ing “Indian Status.” It is sometimes used more general-ly as a contemporary replacement for “Indian,” but may not always be taken to apply to non-status Indi-ans. Inuit people often view “First Nations” as an exclusive designation that does not include them. Inuit are the Indigenous group living in the Artic and Sub-Artic

“Who we are” Regions of the globe. The word Inuit means “people”, and a single person is known as an Inuk. “Métis” may sometimes be used to describe any person of mixed European and Indian ancestry. That definition is, however, frequently challenged by Métis people who trace their own lineage to particular historic Métis com-munities. The broader usage to describe general mixed ancestry is not supported by current Canadian case law. Note: Historic documents written at an earlier point may use terms, such as “Indian,” in ways that would not be popular now, but those documents may still be high-ly valued for their information, analysis, or the perspec-tive they present. Distinguishing that terms have histo-ries is a way to resolve these apparent conflicts and come to a useful understanding of language in context. Attention to current practice is an important part of be-ing clearly understood and avoiding misunderstandings. Beyond the basics presented here, experience may be the best guide in your use of these terms. It is a matter of time and experience to become more comfortable with the usage of these terms and concepts. It is im-portant to recognize the potential these words may hold— but it is also important and very possible to un-derstand these terms well enough to feel confident in using them and creating dialogue. By understanding how identity is created and defined, you can begin to see the implications in policy, legislation, and main-stream conceptions, and their impacts on the day-to-day experiences of us the Indigenous Nations of Canada the First Nation, Inuit and Metis. By Peggy Pitawanakwat

Don’t see

Just the history

Of the people

In Turtle Island

See the nations within

The teaching we have to offer

Come smudge

Accept us for who we are

See us then and now

How we came to be

Share a laugh

Share a smile

Talk to our Elders

Join our community

Spotlight on Creative Writing by Lindsay Gray

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First Peoples @ Seneca hosted a unique on-campus Abo-riginal arts celebration. “Thunderbird Nesting Indige-nous Art” was a sharing of cultural knowledge including the various art forms of Canada’s Indigenous people. This special event created awareness and appreciation for the detail of historical and contemporary art of First Nation, Inuit and Metis. The various art forms included Quill work, Carvings, Paintings, textiles and film.

Following a screening of “Empire of Dirt” the film’s star,

Jennifer Podemski provided a brief presentation fol-

lowed by a Question and Answer session.

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Accomplish, Amaze, Astound…

Achieve Academic success

& join our A-List!

The “A-List” a monthly raffle for our Aboriginal students who achieve academic success.

For every “A” you receive throughout the semester we will enter your name in to our draw for great

prizes. You must inform us (First Peoples Staff) and produce the project/assignment/ test grade and

we’ll enter you for a chance to win!

Not an “A” student, but trying hard to achieve?? Not to worry… we will also be nominating individual

students who have demonstrated their hard work and dedication this semester. Just do your best, be

Awesome!

Plus this months winners:

Darryl Day

Dianne Boucher Dunbrack

Darian Edwards

The next draw is on the 1st of the month!

Email Melissa (Support Officer) if you have a mark to share for your chance to win! melis-

sa.fishman@senecacollege.ca

OR drop by and tell us in person! D2339

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Aboriginal Education Council @

Seneca College AEC Council

Members:

Aboriginal Education Council Meetings 2014.15 May 2014 Seneca College Newnham Campus October 2014 Georgina Island First Nation March 2015 Seneca College – Newnham Campus

AEC Council Members:

Christine McGregor, Entrepreneur, Community Elder Greer Atkinson, Counsellor, Georgi-na Island F.N. Samantha Craig, Rama F.N. Member Randy Pitawanakwat, York Universi-ty, Centre for Aboriginal Student Ser-vices Darryl Day, Inuit Student David Big Canoe, First Nations, Stu-dent Christine Blake-Durie, Dean of Stu-dent Services Donna Robbins, Director, Student Services Mark Solomon, Director, Student Conduct

Come out to our Linked-In Information session!

You will learn to:

· Set up your own Linkedin account

· Basics on how to use your Linkedin account

Linkedin will help you network with potential employers. It will open up a connection to many

contacts who will share job postings and links and so much more.

WHEN: Thursday, February 19th @ 11-12 PM

WHERE: RM B2084