Summer 2009

1Whispering Winds Summer 2009

the voice of the Métis community in British ColumbiaSummer 2009, Vol. 5, Issue 5

Printed in Canada

$4.99

BC’s Past Comes to LifeSpirit of the People Métis Landmarks Métis Nation BC News

2 Whispering Winds Summer 2009

A Career Nowhere Near Ordinary.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police offers a challenging and exciting career to those interested in making a difference in their communities and their country. We are looking for people from all walks of life to join Canada’s national police service. In fact, there has never been a better time to apply! Due to retirements and increasing demands for police officers across the country, the RCMP plans to train up to 2,000 cadets each year. And we are looking to actively recruit potential employees and police officers from Aboriginal communities.

Career opportunities include:

General Duty Aboriginal PolicingMarine Services Crime Prevention Federal Policing Customs& Excise Protective Policing Economic CrimeDrug Investigation Foreign MissionsAirport Security Forensic Services Border Integrity Traffic Services Crime Analysis Explosive Disposal

Emergency Response Team VIP / Diplomatic Protection

There are numerous job possibilities for regular, civilian or public service members. We also offer job security and an attractive pay and benefits package.

Regular Member Salary: At engagement: $44,513 After 6 months: $57,835 12 months: $62,751 24 months: $67,667 3 years: $72,125

Basic Requirements:

Be a Canadian citizen Be of good character Be proficient in either official language (English or French) Have a Canadian secondary school diploma or equivalent Have a valid unrestricted Canadian driver’s licence Be at least 19 years of age at engagement Meet physical / medical requirementsBe willing to relocate anywhere in Canada

Recruiting process takes between 8-12 months. The process includes:

Information Session Written Test - RCMP Police Aptitude Test (RPAT) Physical Test – Physical Ability Requirement Evaluation (PARE) Interviews – Suitability Interview Good Character Verification – Background check & Pre-employment polygraph Medical/Dental/Psychological Enrollment as a Cadet - 24 week training at Depot in Regina.

Join the RCMP RCMP Information

Sessions

To find out where and when the next information session will be found on the RCMP website: www.rcmp-grc.gc.cathen click on Careers/Recruiting and choose your area.

All information sessions will be open and pre-registration is not required.

The RCMP Police Aptitude Test (RPAT) will be announced at the information session.RPAT dates will be held 1-2 months following each information session.

In order to write the RPAT, candidates must attend an information session and pre-register for the exam.

For more information,

please contactAboriginalRecruiting

Cst. Dee Stewart (604) 264-2712

www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca


NOTE FROM THE PUBLISHERS

Tansi! Summer is finally here and we are delighted to bring to you our 20th edition of Whispering Winds!

We love living on Vancouver Island and visiting old friends and family members. Often when Noel and I attend func-tions I talk to people I have not seen for 40 years. It is so great to catch up on their lives.

We are printing extra copies of this edition. If you would like to have extra copies please call us. We are pleased to intro-duce our readers to three new friends of Kiwetin Marketing & Publishing - Jeff and Cathy Lukovich and Ms Audry Lo-chrie, President of Talking Totem Tours. Jeff and Cathy are well known travel writers and photographers, see their bio on page 15. Audrey has been working with BC aboriginal tour companies for many years and we are happy that she was able to take time to write these wonderful stories about her tours. Put on your hiking shoes and visit the places they highlight in their articles. We are flattered to have these three people submit their work to Kiwetin.

A special thanks goes to our Métis authors, Kim Hodgson, Smithers, George and Terry Goulet, Leanne Laberge and the Directors at Métis Nation BC. Your support is so important to us. Of course, we could not produce this great publication without the assistance of our designer Cassandra Redding, Vernon, BC.

Our new publication has already had a name change but is still going ahead. Be sure to pick up a copy of The Quill & Drum at your Métis office, Band office, and Community Fu-ture offices or by way of subscription later this summer. The Quill & Drum will showcase BC Aboriginal Tourism and Economic Development Successes. If you would like your business included in this new publication, feel free to call Di-ane or Noel as soon as possible. All existing subscribers to Whispering Winds will receive a complimentary copy of The Quill & Drum.

We are looking for advertising salespeople, if interested call us soon. We always accept articles, story ideas, photos and advertising. It is important that we all share our culture. The more we know about each other, the better we understand each other. It all makes for a peaceful world. Whispering Winds and The Quill & Drum is our way of supporting our community in the best way we can. Thank you to all of our faithful readers and those who are reading this magazine for the first time. Be sure to get all the copies hot off the press – purchase a subscription for $32.00/year. Deadline for the Fall edition is August 4th.

PUBLISHERSKiwetin Marketing & Publishing Ltd.

OWNERSNoel and Diane Mineault

CONTACT US2219 14th Avenue

Port Alberni, B.C.V9Y 2Y4

Toll-free: 1-866-558-7997Phone: 250-723-7095Fax: 1-866-245-0868

Email: [email protected]: www.kiwetin.com

ISSN 1916-7490 (Print)ISSN 1916-7504 (Online)


Summer 2009, Vol. 5, Issue 5

CONTENTSMoitie Moitie 5

Messages from Métis Nation BC Executive Page 6 & 7

Landmarks by George and Terry Goulet 10

Aboriginal Journeys into BC’s Past 12

Kayaking, Ancient Rainforest, Remote Sweatlodge 15

Ceremony and Whales 18

Spirit of the People 23

Aboriginal Tourism Awards 28

History of the Point Blanket 30

MNBC Conference 34

Métis Women 44

A Cultural Journey 48

MNBC Student Successes 50

18 34

23



with disabilities, their families and communities so that they can be recognized as assets rather than liabilities to society.

It was this joy that was shared April 30! The children led by their music teacher sang the words of this unique story. It has a lovely, catchy tune that had people humming as they left the room. The children

were delighted to see Mischa sitting in the back of the room. To them he is the hero in this story! He was so proud to be there to celebrate his Mom’s book.

“My son, Mischa, busy as can beLikes his day moitie-moitie,

A little bit of hard workA little bit of fun,

And a little bit of mischief,Mother, look at him run.

Pullin’ at a dandelion,Chasin’ a crow.”Shake-a-leg Mother,Would ya look at him go.Runnin’ round in circles,Buzzin’ like a bee,He’s a hardworking’ beaver,

Moitie-moitie.He’s a hardworkin’ beaver,

Moitie-moitie.

During the afternoon, Laura’s niece entertained the crowd with her piano playing; a young Métis fiddler

added his tunes followed by a short performance by Summer Sage. Laura and Melissa told the children a short history about Métis including why they wrote the song “Dumont’s Rock.” Following the performance the parents and guests were treated to Tea and Bannock. To obtain a copy of this CD and book go to www.summersage.com. Editor’s comment “We took this booklet to our grandchildren and it had to be reread 55 times. The CD is so catchy that all our grandchildren walked around singing the song. A delightful story and CD.”

The gymnasium of Uplands

Park School, Nanaimo, B.C. was filled with students, teachers and parents to hear and see the new children’s book and CD, “Moitie Moitie”.

This school celebrates the culture diversity of its student body by showcasing their difference nationalities on a regular basis. This time they gathered to celebrate Métis culture!

Laura Langstaff is a Saskatchewan-born Métis who descended from Red River ancestry and has been involved in Métis community capacity building all her life. Laura is presently involved with Aboriginal education in the Nanaimo School District. Langstaff and her sister, Melissa Hall, recently launched their new CD by “Summer Sage” - Medicine Winds.

Moitie Moitie is a story about Mischa, Laura’s son, who lives with autism in the severe range, a profound neuro-sensory hearing loss, epilepsy and type-two diabetes. He is representative of 46% of Aboriginal persons living in Canada who live with disability issues, or conditions requiring the same level of support as a disability.

While Laura was writing this story she was wanted to accomplish three goals – to promote awareness of disability issues in Aboriginal communities, create a learning resource specifically for Métis children so they can see themselves reflected in Aboriginal resources and curricula and to celebrate the joy, diversity and resiliency of Métis persons

Moitie Moitie

STOP THE PRESSES!



On behalf of the Métis Nation British Columbia Board of Directors and

Staff I bring greetings to all of our Métis communities and friends of the Métis Nation British Columbia.

Spring has sprung and this marks a very busy time for the Métis Nation British Columbia as staff and board commence preparations for the 2009 Annual General Meeting to be

Message from the President

Suite 208 W, 345 Yellowhead Highway Kamloops, BC, V2H 1H1

Phone (250) 828-9770 Toll Free 1-800-663-2959 Email: [email protected] www.antco.bc.ca

ALL NATIONS TRUST COMPANY

Taanshi Apeetha’kosianuk!Hello Métis / Michif People!

BUSINESS LOANSFirst Citizen’s Fund-Aboriginal youth

MORTGAGESCommercial-Consumer

CMHC Direct Lending Agent

BUSINESS SUPPORTAboriginal Business Canada Programs

Business Advisory Services

held in Penticton, British Columbia this upcoming September.

The MNBC has been very busy on not just a provincial scale but also federally. The federal government, more specifically the Office of the Federal Interlocutor, has been recommending that aboriginal organizations look at the various processes of the MNBC as a “best practice”. Presentations have been given to various aboriginal organizations on our governance systems, central registry and the consultation guidelines.

This is a real compliment to all of our Métis Chartered Communities and Citizens as a result of their involvement and approval of the MNBC Constitution and related Acts, which empowers the development of these best practices. The MNBC is truly paving the way to a new era of how to employ aboriginal self-governance in Canada.

The Board of Directors has been working with the Senior Management staff on the development of our new strategic plans. This includes introducing and endorsing each plan by the Minister responsible. This process ensures that the MNBC and all of its arms are working in cohesion with each other and provides both a political and business accountability to the Citizens of the MNBC.

In closing I thank each of you for your continued support as we move forward. I am confident that this year will prove one of our best yet.

I will see many of you soon.

Marsay, Thank you, Ki’nass kou’mitinow

President Bruce R. Dumont


In my short time here in my new role as Chief Executive Officer for

the Métis Nation British Columbia I have learned so much. It has been informative to receive feedback from the communities and from this input MNBC is working to identify areas in which we can improve upon our programs and services, and increase awareness to our communities. The senior management team has redeveloped their five-year strategy into a reporting format that can be updated on an annual basis. This format has been approved and met with positive remarks by both the federal and provincial levels of government. This innovative approach combines strategy, reporting and performance measures. In addition, it reflects both a political and technical component for the overall document. The MNBC has developed these strategic plans for all four arms of the MNBC and for each individual

Ministry. These plans are living documents that have to be updated on an annual basis for both strategy and reporting. Most importantly there are two other components for each strategic plan. Firstly, there are annual performance measures that will provide a consistent way to indicate either success or failure to deliver the indicated objectives. As these performance measures are compiled on an annual basis you will be able to start tracking

growth of the MNBC. The second component is a resource summary table, which highlights the financial figures of the Ministry or governmental arm. The table highlights the optimal funding level that will significantly advance the objectives of the Ministry or governmental arm. The table then reports the actual amount of funding acquired by the MNBC and a breakdown of the resource supplied by the Province of British Columbia and Canada (or other sources). This table is designed to indicate why the MNBC may not be able to achieve various objectives and to show a

true picture of the status of the Métis Nation British Columbia. It has been noted through the Métis Nation Governing Assembly, as well as through various Regional Governance Meetings across the province that communication is an area where MNBC can improve. As of June 30th, 2009 MNBC will launch our new web site that is more user friendly, and will be more interactive with online videos, job postings, links, and resources. I would like to officially welcome back an old friend of the Métis Nation British Columbia. Tracey Thornhill will be returning to the MNBC at the end of May 2009 to support Board of Directors and myself as CEO in the role of Executive Assistant. Tracey previously worked with the organization for 10 years and her presence has been missed. Welcome Back Tracey. Dean Trumbley formally the Inter-governmental Relations Affairs Director for MNBC has officially as of May 1st, 2009 moved into the role as Chief of Operations. I very much look forward to working with Dean in this role. Dean has spent over a decade involved with MNBC as well held different positions within the organization. Dean’s strong skills and passion will no doubt be a great addition to the Executive Team. Linda Koster will be joining our team on May 1st, 2009 as the Human Resource Officer. This position has been identified as a need for quite sometime. Linda comes to us with a wealth of knowledge and experience. Linda has been working as the Interim Executive Assistant for the past few months and has been such a support to us here. Welcome Linda and thank you. On behalf of the MNBC staff.

Malonie Langthorne

Message from the Chief Executive Officer

#401-1011 Fort Street, Victoria, BC V8W 1H8 250.380.1423

Joe Gereluk, AttorneyBarrister and Solicitor for MNBC


The Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) Centralized Registry

has made some recent changes to the Registry staff. The Central Registry would like to take the opportunity to introduce a new staff member and advise of additional staff changes.

The Registry would like to welcome

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to the team, Angel Fisher, Provincial Registry Clerk. Angel joined the Registry in January of 2009 and previously held the position of receptionist at MNBC. Angel is responsible for application intake and processing for the Lower Mainland region and incoming and outgoing communication for the Registry.

Métis Nation British Columbia Central RegistryStaff Update May 2009

Individuals seeking to make application or who have an active file and reside in the Lower Mainland are encouraged to contact Angel at: Mailing Address:Suite 905 - 1130 West Pender St. Vancouver, BC V6CE 4A4 Toll Free: 1-800-940-1150 Phone: 604-678-6977 Fax: 778-328-9966Email: [email protected] Hours: Mon - Fri 8:30am -4:30pm

Angel will be pleased to answer questions regarding the application process and provide assistance with the process.

The Registry would like to welcome back to full time from part time Audrey Prevost, Regional Registry Clerk for the North Central Region. Recently Audrey has assumed the role of Registry Clerk for the Northwest and Northeast regions in addition to the North Central region.

Individuals seeking to make application or who have an active file and reside in the North Central, Northwest or Northeast regions are encouraged to contact Audrey at: Mailing Address: #201-513 Ahbau St. Prince George, BC, V2M 3R8 Fax: 250-561-2790 Phone: 250-961-1181Email: [email protected] Hours: Mon - Fri 8:30am - 4:30pm

Audrey will be pleased to answer questions regarding the application process and provide assistance with the process.

IMPORTANT NOTIFICATION:Please contact the Registry if your place of residence has changed since submitting an application for Citizenship or receiving your Citizenship card. Please ensure your contact information is current.


9

As of April 18/09, the official results for the 2009 MNBC Election are as follows:

FOR THE OFFICE OF REGIONAL WOMEN’S REPRESENTATIVE – REGION 1

DALCOL, Clara ElectedLANG, Katherine Elizabeth RATSON, Yvette **OFFICIAL WINNER: CLARA DALCOL**


ARKO, Sherry ElectedO’CONNOR, Gale **OFFICIAL WINNER: SHERRY ARKO**


WRIGHT, Donna ACCLAIMED

FOR THE OFFICE OF REGIONAL YOUTH REPRESENTATIVE – REGION 6

WOLFENDEN, Katherine ACCLAIMED


MCFEETERS, Leanne Elected

OLANSKI, Peggy

**OFFICIAL WINNER: LEANNE MCFEETERS**

Final Message from the Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) Chief Electoral OfficeOn behalf of the MNBC Chief Electoral Office, we would like to thank all of you who exercised your right to vote in the 2009 MNBC Election. In addition, our Office would like to thank the following strategic partners in assisting the MNBC Chief Electoral Office in administering this year’s Election. Therefore, special thanks are extended to:• The MNBC Administration (Malonie Langthorne, Linda Koster, MNBC Central Registry staff led by Laurel Katernick);• The MNBC Webmaster (Shawn Harper); and• The MNBC Solicitor (Joseph Gereluk).In closing, we appreciated the opportunity to work with the MNBC for this year’s election!Merci and Meegwetch,Don Caverley & Dr. Natasha CaverleyChief Electoral Office – 2009 MNBC General ElectionTurtle Island Consulting Services Inc.

MNBC ELECTIONS2009 Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) ElectionOFFICIAL RESULTS – APRIL 18, 2009

Camping Canoeing Beading Leather Work Drum Making Traditional Foods Traditional Games And Many More Exciting Events

To Register Please Contact Cowichan Valley Metis

At 156 D Government St

Duncan, BC Phone: 250 746–6146

Fax: 250 746-5864 Email: [email protected]

2009

We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Urban Multi Purpose Aboriginal Youth Centres of the Department of Canadian Heritage toward our project costs.

MNBC

EVENT INCLUDES

REGISTRATION INFORMATION


10 Whispering Winds Spring 2009

LANDMARKS, GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATIONS & SITES

PERTINENT TO MÉTIS HISTORY in BRITISH COLUMBIA - Part 2

By George and Terry Goulet

As spring turns into summer, it is time to take advantage of the good weather to travel around the beautiful province of British Columbia. Whether for

pleasure or to see relatives, it is interesting to visit those areas where the Métis first came with the early explorers to open up the fur trade. In this article for Whispering Winds we are highlighting those Northern locations in the Province that are best suited for summer travel.

FORT ST. JOHN – PEACE RIVER Fort St. John (originally called Rocky Mountain Fort) is the oldest non-Native establishment on the British Columbia Mainland. It was founded by Alexander Mackenzie for the North West Company (NWC) in 1794 and was located on the Peace River upstream from the Moberly River (originally called the Old Beaver River) and southwest of present day Fort St. John.

The original Fort was closed in 1805, and over the years it was relocated and renamed a number of times. An early NWC fur trader on the Peace River was Alexander Roderick McLeod, who may have directed the building of Fort St. John in 1806. While in this area he married a Métis woman according to the custom of the country and had a number of Métis children by her.

Significant archeological findings have been located in this region of British Columbia. The oldest find (located seven kilometers north of present day Fort St. John) is the Charlie Lake Cave that dates back approximately 10,500 years. Another archeological dig (located 100 kilometers north of Charlie Lake) is at Pink Mountain where there was an Indian settlement inhabited over 3,000 years ago. Today there is a thriving Métis community in Fort St. John which carries on many of the customs and traditions of their ancestors.

FORT GEORGE (PRINCE GEORGE) - JUNCTION OF THE NECHAKO AND FRASER RIVERSFort George was built by Métis and French-Canadian voyageurs of the North West Company (NWC) in 1807 at the junction of the Fraser and Nechako Rivers under the supervision of Simon Fraser. This area had previously been explored by Alexander Mackenzie and James McDougall some years earlier.

In 1808 Simon Fraser put together an exploratory team consisting of John Stuart, Jules Quesnel, 19 Métis and French-Canadian voyageurs and two Indians. The Métis Jean Baptiste Boucher (Waccan) was a member of the crew as were LaChappelle, Baptiste, D’Alaire, LaCerte, LaGarde, Gagne, and Bourbonnais.

This team departed from the junction of the Nechako and Fraser Rivers on May 28, 1808 on their expedition in search of the Pacific Ocean. They reached the Pacific Ocean on July 2, 1808. They did not linger and quickly left for Fort George, arriving there five weeks later on August 6th. Placer miners came to the Fort George area in 1861 to pan for gold on the nearby rivers. Named after King George III, this Fort was the origin of the present day vibrant city of Prince George that has been called “BC’s northern capital”. For several days in November 2008, the City of Prince George recognized the significance of the Métis Community in this area by flying the British Columbia Métis flag over City Hall including Louis Riel Day on November 16th.

MÉTIS HISTORY


Whispering Winds Spring 2009 11

FORT ST. JAMES – NORTH CENTRAL BRITISH COLUMBIA Fort St. James (originally called Stuart’s Lake Fort)

was built by the North West Company (NWC) on the shores of Carrier Lake (now Stuart Lake). James McDougall, an assistant to Simon Fraser, had previously arrived at this location during the winter of 1805-06. Simon Fraser’s 1806 journey west of the Rockies with the Métis Jean Baptiste Boucher and other Métis and French-Canadian voyageurs led to the establishment of Fort St. James on Stuart Lake in that year. It was here that Fraser named the entire area New Caledonia and Fort St. James later became the administrative center of the fur trade in New Caledonia.

Jean Baptiste Boucher (“Waccan”) was a member of the epic NWC Expedition of 1808 to the Pacific Ocean led by Simon Fraser. After this journey Boucher was posted to Fort St. James, where he was to spend most of the rest of his life. He served in the fur trade as an interpreter, voyageur, and intermediary and enforcer.

James Douglas, who was to become the first Governor of the Colony of British Columbia in 1858, served as a clerk at Fort St. James from 1826 to 1830. In 1828 his young Métis country wife Amelia Connolly with the help of Nancy McDougall Boucher (Métis country wife of Waccan and daughter of James McDougall) saved his life during the Kwah incident that occurred at Fort St. James. By saving the life of a young James Douglas, these intrepid country wives had a significant impact on the future history of British Columbia. Amelia Connolly Douglas was later to become the First Lady of British Columbia.

Today memories of the fur trade and Métis presence in this area live on in the New Caledonia Métis Association and the restored Fort that has been designated as a National Historic Site by the Government of Canada.

DEASE LAKE POST– NORTH WEST BRITISH COLUMBIA

Dease Lake Post was built on the east side of Dease Lake by the Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC) in 1838.

This Post was named after the Métis Peter Warren Dease who was the Chief Factor of Fort St. James in New Caledonia in the 1830s. His Métis brother Chief Trader John Warren Dease (also an HBC fur trader west of the Rocky Mountains) married the widowed Genevieve Beignet, the grandmother of the Métis martyr Elzear Goulet who played an important role in the Red River Resistance.

Although the Post was subsequently abandoned, the gold rushes of 1864 and 1872 revitalized the area. It became a stopover along the mining trail. Today there is a town named Dease Lake (near the site of the original Fort) that is known as the Jade Capital of the World. It is located at the junction of the Telegraph Creek Road and the Stewart-Cassiar Highway.

MACKENZIE ROCK & CAIRN – DEAN CHANNEL In 1793 the great explorer Alexander Mackenzie of the North West Company (NWC) made an epic overland journey to the Pacific Ocean. His crew of ten included Métis and French Canadian voyageurs and two Indians. The voyageurs in the MacKenzie party were François Beaulieu, Baptiste Bisson, Joseph Landry, Jacques Beauchamp, Charles Doucette, and François Courtois. The most prominent Métis member of this group was François Beaulieu, who has been designated a person of national significance by The Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada.The NWC Expedition reached an arm of the Pacific Ocean at Dean Channel on July 21, 1793. The following day, with a mixture of vermilion and grease, Mackenzie painted on a rock (now known as Mackenzie Rock) an inscription relating to this journey to the Pacific Ocean. Over the years his inscription faded. As a result, in 1926 the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada chiseled the following words into Mackenzie Rock:

Also in 1926 the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada erected a 40 foot cairn with a plaque above Mackenzie Rock. In addition in 1944 the Board erected a further plaque at this site to memorialize this historic Expedition. Reached only by boat, the Rock is situated in Sir Alexander Mackenzie Provincial Park along the central coast of British Columbia near Elcho Harbour on Dean Channel approximately 65 kilometers northwest of Bella Coola.

Fort St. James Historic Site

Courtesy Fort St. James National Historic Site


At first glance, there’s not much to indicate that this hauntingly beautiful spot in the forest was once a large village of one of the world’s great civilizations.

Gradually it dawns that the mossy lumps in the undergrowth are the relics of a nation of people who traded and raided thousands of miles from their homes and whose monumental art is admired throughout the world. We are in Tanu in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site (www.parkscanada.gc.ca.gwaiihaanas), a place that in many ways is symbolic of the birth, growth, near-death and rebirth of an entire culture. Enormous house pits and collapsed poles hint at the village’s rise to prominence due to rich land and water resources. A large unmarked grave site indicates the catastrophe that occurred when European contact brought waves of diseases that killed 90% of the population. Nearby, a single tombstone with cross is a reminder of the missionaries sent to convert the Haida to Christianity. Further along stands a memorial –

Aboriginal Journeys into BC’s Past

by Jeff LukovichPhotos by Cathy Lukovich

dedicated to a man who spent his entire adult life reclaiming his heritage and inspiring others to do the same. Bill Reid’s ashes were buried ten years ago here in the village of his maternal grandmother, and he has become perhaps the single most important figure in the revival of Haida culture. Over the next few days we visit several major cultural sites in this archipelago of 138 islands in southern Haida Gwaii, part of the Canadian parks system and jointly managed by the Government of Canada and the Council of the Haida Nation. Haida Watchmen live at each site from May to September and serve as guardians and interpreters to protect and explain the natural and cultural heritage of each place. SGang Gwaay, on Anthony Island, was granted UNESCO World Heritage Site designation in 1981. The remains of 17 moss-covered longhouses and 30 sun-bleached poles look out over the sheltered bay. The ancient village of Hlk’yah on Lyell Island was ground zero in 1985 in the standoff between the Haida and the logging companies that ultimately led to

Gwani Haanas National Park sunset


Aboriginal Journeys into BC’s Past

the formation of the Park. Gandl K’in, known as Hot Water Island, is the site of what has to be one of the most stunning natural hot springs in the world. Three pools at different elevations look out over a panorama of ocean and islands with the sea just 40 metres away from the lowest pool. K’uuna, on Louise Island, was once a village of nearly 30 longhouses and over 50 poles, and inspired Emily Carr to do some of her most famous paintings. Today, only a few poles remain standing, most at precarious angles, but together with the longhouse depressions, they give a sense of the village’s former glory.Each of British Columbia’s 198 aboriginal peoples has its own distinct

history, culture, language, and art. It’s a history that predates England’s Stonehenge and Egypt’s pyramids by over 5000 years. Aboriginal Tourism in the province is booming as increasing numbers of tourists and residents look to discover this culture and history for themselves. Highways and back roads throughout B.C. lead to sites, tours, cultural centres and museums that showcase both ancient and contemporary ways of aboriginal life. Here are just a few more examples.Xá:ytem (pronounced HAY-tum) Longhouse Interpretive Centre (www.xaytem.ca) is located on 7.5 hectares on the outskirts of Mission, 90 minutes east of Vancouver. Xá:ytem is

the name of the giant granite rock, also known as Hatzic Rock, that depicts the ancient Sto:lo story of three chiefs who challenged the Creator and were transformed to stone. Also at this location, the 6000-year-old remains of a 10 by 12 metre house are believed to be the site of the oldest dwelling yet found in B.C. Designated a National Historic Site in 1992, it was one of the first native spiritual sites in Canada to be so recognized. The Longhouse Interpretive Centre welcomes visitors year round. Director Linnea Battel, shares the song of the transformer stone with us before leading us on a tour. On display are artifacts such as axe heads, fishing hooks, spearheads, gaming balls and grinding stones. Some of these are trade goods from as far away as Oregon. Taken together, they reveal the intricacies of a rich society of hunters, traders, fishers, woodworkers and storytellers. Two traditional twelve-sided pithouses lie outside the longhouse. Linnea wryly recounts the story of how the original plans for the pithouses were ambushed by red tape when the site was declared a National Historic Site. “Now we have the first

Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre

Hot Spring Island 13


architecturally designed, structurally engineered, geotechnically approved pithouses in Canada,” she says.Just a half-hour further up the Fraser Valley from Mission lie Harrison Lake and Harrison River, the traditional lands of the Chehalis people, part of the Sto:lo nation. Kelsey Charlie sings us the welcome song of his people as we float on the lake in his boat. His Sasquatch Tours (www.sasquatchtours.com) offer fascinating two, four and six-hour cultural cruises on Harrison Lake and Harrison River. Kelsey points out where the main village used to lie, just to the right of the Harrison Hot Springs Resort. His words paint a verbal picture of the one mountain, four river and five lake villages that were found here at the time of European contact as well as the network of trading trails that connected to other peoples in Hope, the lower Thompson, Hatzic, Pitt Lake and Squamish. He tells of a complex, structured society where individuals played defined roles according to their talents, and lived according to the law of the land. The elders passed down this law, together with all of their stories, myths and legends in the oral tradition, and today we are receiving some of these stories in the same manner. The tour brings us to pictographs and

petroglyphs painted and carved into rock faces on the lake and river, as well as other sites that are the physical representations of his stories. About two hours north of Vancouver, where the resort village of Whistler stands today, oral histories of the Squamish and Lil’wat people, dating back several millennia, tell of their relationship to the land as well their connection to each other. In fact they were so interconnected, they once shared a village named Spo7ez (SPO-ez), near Rubble Creek at the base of Garibaldi Mountain. Here they traded, socialized and intermarried, but the village was buried by a rockslide resulting from a volcanic eruption or earthquake thousands of years ago.

In recent years the two nations have renewed their historic relationship and last year opened the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (www.slcc.ca) in Whistler. Constructed at a cost of $30 million, with funds coming from both nations, the federal and provincial governments, and private and corporate donations, it is both a centre of cultural revitalization and a place to share the unique Squamish and Lil’wat cultures with the rest of the world.

The three-storey complex overlooks Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains

and is designed to suggest a traditional Squamish longhouse and a Lil’wat Istken (pit house). Throughout the museum, colour codes and symbols are used to distinguish information that is specific to each nation. Squamish displays are coded blue and feature the Salish Eye – a symbol found on traditional canoes, paddles and masks, representing the eye of their ancestors leading them in the right direction. Lil’wat exhibits are coded green and include a basket design, signifying the mountainous region of their homeland and the fine basket weaving for which they are renowned.

Displays include a magnificent ocean-going war canoe carved from a single massive cedar tree, carved masks of supernatural creatures, cedar and wool weavings, art, artifacts and tools. Many of the exhibits are hands-on or include short video presentations. At specific times, the presentation theatre hosts live song and dance performances.

Apparent throughout our visit was the real pride that the numerous guides had in the centre, and the opportunity it gave them to share details of their culture, as well as their own family ties to both the artifacts and newer art and craftwork on display.

NkmipNinstints


An accomplished freelance writing and photography team for more than ten years, Jeff and Cathy Lukovich’s work has been published in newspapers, magazines, educational publications and travel guides across Canada and internationally.

Their work has appeared in The National Post and other CanWest newspapers across the country; the Canadian, U.S. and U.K. editions of the Travel Industry Guides to Canada, and for the past four years have had a summer series of travel columns in the Vancouver Sun, among other publications.

Jeff and Cathy are both active members of the Travel Media Association of Canada, and have each garnered prestigious awards for writing and photography. In addition, they have been nominated for several others, including the Tourism BC Media Award 2006 and the Aboriginal Tourism British Columbia Media Award 2009.

Though they have written about and photographed destinations around the world, most of their stories have been about British Columbia, and many of those have featured Aboriginal Cultural Tourism.

Their introduction to some of the many cultures throughout the province has impressed them with the breadth and diversity of aboriginal history and tradition. Common to all the peoples they have met is a strong sense of place and connectedness to the land, and they strive to convey that in their work.

Moving from mountain to desert, just outside the town of Osoyoos, two hours south of Kelowna, a scenic plateau overlooks the warmest fresh-water lake in Canada. Here a 650-hectare desert conservation area on the Osoyoos Indian Reserve preserves the largest intact remnant of the Great American Desert – the northern portion of which is Canada’s only desert and one of the most endangered ecosystems in the country.The Osoyoos are part of the Okanagan Nation whose traditional territory extends from southern B.C. into the state of Washington. Their history on these lands goes back thousands of years. The fact that they thrived in this inhospitable landscape is a testament to their resilience and adaptability.The Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre (www.nkmipdesert.com) opened here in 2006 with a mission to: “promote respect and understanding of the

living culture of the Okanagan people and to conserve and interpret Canada’s only desert.” C o m b i n i n g indoor and outdoor galleries with interactive stations and hands-on displays, the centre includes a reconstructed traditional village and a rattlesnake research and tagging program, with interpretive sessions featuring live rattlesnakes. Designed to blend into the landscape, the Cultural Centre’s rammed-earth walls are set into the sagebrush hillside.

Life-size metal sculptures, crafted by Spokane artist Virgil “Smoker” Marchand, are installed throughout the Cultural Centre and grounds. Some depict traditional village life such as

Nkmip & Hatzic Rock


fishing or weaving. The most stirring piece, titled “The Chief ”, fronts the Cultural Centre and depicts a warrior on horseback offering a peace pipe to the sky.Leaving southern B.C. for the northwest, an hour north of Terrace, what is believed to be Canada’s most recent volcanic eruption and lava flow occurred about 250 years ago. It left a pockmarked basaltic lava field that even today has the appearance of a desolate moonscape. Two Nisga’a villages were destroyed, killing 2000 people and making it one of the most destructive recorded natural events in the history of B.C. The lava beds, which reach 12 m above the road in some places, are the burial ground of these people. The molten stream diverted the mighty Nass River and also changed the course of the Tseax River, creating two beautiful waterfalls and gorgeous jade green pools where the lava honeycombed and collapsed before damming a small stream and creating Lava Lake. Nisga’a Memorial Lava Bed Park (www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parksogs/nisgaa.html) tells the story of this tragic event. It is the first park in B.C. to be jointly managed by both the provincial government and a First Nation as well as the first provincial park established to combine the interpretation of natural features with native culture.We visit the interpretive centre to hear the Nisga’a legend that accounts for the calamity that befell the local people.

The legend says that several small children of a village had been torturing some humpback salmon by splitting open their backs and inserting fiery sticks. The elders of the village warned the children several times that these life-giving creatures must be treated with respect and that their actions would bring down some sort of punishment, but they wouldn’t listen. Soon, the ground began to rumble, fire spewed from the earth, and the entire tribe paid the price for the children’s foolishness. The interpretive centre also has information about volcanic activity in the area, a self-guided driving map that describes how to access the park’s special

volcanic features, and in the summer, offers guided tours to the crater.Many museums throughout B.C. have excellent exhibits dedicated to aboriginal history and culture, but four that should not be missed are: the Museum of Northern British Columbia in Prince Rupert, the Museum of Anthropology

at UBC in Vancouver, the Royal British Columbia Museum in Victoria, and the U’mista Cultural Society Museum in Alert Bay.At MNBC in Prince Rupert, warm cedar timbers and soaring ceiling duplicate the magnificent architecture of a Northwest Coast longhouse. Though the museum is relatively small, its location and the elegance of its exhibits make it a must-see if you’re in the area. Exhibits portray Northwest Coast history and culture dating

back 10,000 years. Eating utensils, masks, bentwood boxes and other regalia depict the day-to-day life and celebrations of the first people here – the Coast Tsimshian. Attached to the museum is the First Nations Carving Shed where, from June to August, visitors can observe some of the finest carvers of northwest First Nations art working on copper, silver, gold, cedar and argillite. (www.museumofnorthernbc.com)In Vancouver, the Arthur Erickson-designed Museum of Anthropology is stunningly situated on a cliff overlooking mountains and ocean, and contains about 6000 aboriginal

Museum of Northern BC

Umista


objects in its 35,000-piece collection of artifacts from around the world. Massive totem poles, carved boxes, bowls, and feast dishes are featured in the Museum’s Great Hall. Not to be missed is Bill Reid’s work, including the monumental yellow cedar sculpture, The Raven and the First Men. Elsewhere in the galleries, smaller pieces in gold, silver, argillite, wood, ceramic, and other materials are exhibited. (www.moa.ubc.ca) The First Peoples Gallery at the Royal British Columbia Museum in Victoria portrays the life of First Nations cultures before and after European arrival. The gallery includes a large collection of masks, totem poles, and a Kwakwaka’wakw longhouse built by Henry Hunt, and his grandsons, Tony Hunt and Richard Hunt. There are interactive displays, and an impressive collection of argillite carvings. In another gallery, Bill Reid describes the effects of the devastating smallpox epidemic of 1862 and honors the strength of First Nations people and their cultures. A large collection of monumental carvings, including historical and contemporary totem poles are on view both through many parts of the museum as well as just outside in Thunderbird Park. (www.royalbcmuseum.bc.ca)The U’mista Cultural Society Museum is located in the northern Vancouver Island community of Alert Bay, home to a large Kwakaka’wakw community, and the inspiration for many familiar Emily Carr paintings. Housed in a

traditional Big House is a stunning collection of returned treasures, which were confiscated after the “last potlatch” on Village Island and sent to languish in museums and private collections around the world. The remarkable works of art of the “Potlatch Collection” are displayed in the open in a large room warmed by cedar posts, beams and panels, and many are being used again for family and cultural events. Other exhibits and two outstanding videos supplement the collection. (www.umista.org)

Summer Is a Great Time to Learn. ESPECIALLY ONLINE!Customized Aboriginal Awareness online training is available for:Federal Employees Forestry EmployeesProvincial Employees Mining Employees Local Government Employees Small & Medium Enterprisesand it is all designed to help you work effectively with Aboriginal peoples.

For only $97 plus GST you get:1. Access to our interactive learning site and resource centre complete with pre-tests, video clips, post-tests, discussion forums, glossaries, wikis, etc., which have all been designed with one purpose in mind - increase performance of those looking to work effectively with Aboriginal Peoples.2. Review historical events and their relation to the present demographic and economic environment. Review the constitutional, political, and legal context of Aboriginal relations, including treaties and self-government.3. An electronic copy of our book, Working Effectively with Aboriginal Peoples™, 2nd Edition, for review and printing.4. A free newsletter subscription is offered with every registration. You can unsubscribe anytime.5. Unlimited access to your course for 2 months. You learn at your own pace with no need to finish the course at one time. As long as you have access to a computer, the Internet and a web browser you can start learning!

Curious? Check out the free trial at www.ictonline.ca

Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre


The blending of three seaside villages with the First Na-tions communities makes the magic in this tour. Pair that with the large numbers of world renowned art-

ists and the powerful resurgence of culture and be prepared to dazzle your senses with a step into timelessness. The tour traces the coast of British Columbia from Horseshoe Bay to Powell River to Alert Bay, and explores narrow fiords, hidden coves, and stunning archipelagos.On this remote journey expert Aboriginal guides offer an opportunity to experience a cultural immersion, amazing nature and rest and relaxation, only a few hours from Van-couver. The coastal rain-forest of the Sunshine Coast is con-sidered one of the best places to view sea lions, seals, eagles and seabirds in their natural surroundings and is well known for its abundance of fish, crab, clams and oysters. Alert Bay, located on a tiny 3 1/2 mile long island off the north east coast of Vancouver Island is regarded as one of the best loca-

Kayaking, Ancient Rainforest, Remote Sweatlodge Ceremony andWhales by Audry Lochrie

tions in the world to view the largest population of resident orcas in the wild. Highlights of the tour include a private kayak to an ancient site, (no experience needed) a hike through some of the most ancient rain forest of the B.C. coast, a sweatlodge ceremony presented in a traditional environment and a day with the whales. Aboriginal guides are high-calibre specialists, anthropolo-gists, interpretive guides, performers and artists who dedi-

cate themselves to rigourous physical and spiritual prepa-ration and training for the tours. They approach traditions with sincerity and with the conviction that they are the hosts and stewards of these lands and waters. They conduct them-selves based on this awareness more than any customer ser-vice practice or retention strategy.Candace Campo from Talaysay Tours grew up in a tradition-al family in the rich cultural wonders of the Shíshálh [See-Shalh] First Nation. She is a respected leader in her commu-

Xwamstut drumming at park



nities of Sechelt & Squamish Nations and welcomes visi-tors wishing authentic expe-riences based on traditional culture and values that re-spect and protect her natural heritage.Bill Bertchy (Oukcha) from Bear Track Eco-Tours is in the Sliammon First Nation in Powell River. Bill has received many honours for the work he does in spearheading a move-ment with the judicial system and First Nation youth. He is a Sundance Ceremony Danc-er and a leader in the Ghost Dance Ceremony and assists

with reviving vanishing sacred ceremonies. Porgie Jolafson is an expert First Nations Guide, who spends most of his time taking out marine scientists to do research. He is able to maneuver his vessel around the islands close to the favourite spots where pods of Orcas return each summer. He has been a fisherman in this area for 50 years and shares knowledge and experiences of his career transition from a commercial fisherman to a marine tour guide and the chal-lenges that his industry, the whales and the wild salmon face in these times. Donna, Barb and Andrea Cranmer - The Cranmer family is a highly regarded Alert Bay traditional family that offers

cultural activities to those wishing an educational immersion with knowl-edgeable guides. Their vi-sion is sharing the history, Kwakwala, dance, song and most importantly the Kwakwaka’wakw teach-ings. They are the found-ers of the T’sasala Cultural Group Traditional Danc-ers and Culture Shock.The seven-day itinerary highlights culture, wildlife viewing and First Nations specialists through one of B.C.’s remote areas, yet easily accessed from both Vancouver and Victoria.

Day 1 - Horseshoe Bay, Vancouver - the Sun-shine Coast Arrive in Horseshoe Bay this morning from Van-couver and embark on a

BC Ferries ship to the Sunshine Coast. While in Horseshoe Bay, make sure you visit Spirit Gallery, an art gallery featur-ing some of B.C.’s top artisans and carvers. You’ll meet with your guide, Candace, and learn the Sechelt Nation culture on a hike to one of the oldest rain forests in B.C. Overnight in Sechelt.

Day 2 - Sechelt - Lund Today begins with Candace on a cultural kayak to the an-cient pictographs in Porpoise Bay. As you explore hidden bays and inlets you can see porpoises, harbor seals, herons and bald eagles. In the village of Sechelt visit the totem poles and First Nations museum. This afternoon travel on the BC Ferris from Earl’s Cove to Historic Lund Hotel located at the top of the beautiful Sunshine Coast. Overnight in Lund.

Day 3 - Lund To prepare for the sweatlodge ceremony, a leisurely morning is recommended with a beach and village stroll. Lund is the gateway to Desolation Sound, renowned around the world as the fourth most sought-after spot for sailing. This afternoon, you’ll meet Oukcha, attend a private Sweatlodge ceremony in Okeover and witness the cultural keepers performing their ceremony rituals. Overnight in Lund.

Day 4 - Powell River to Alert Bay This morning you’ll travel on the BC Ferries to the unspoiled east coast of Vancouver Island, and spot deer, eagles and black bear as you travel the four hours to Port McNeill where

Candace guiding on a cultural kayak

Vera and Andrea Cranmer, Alert Bay


you will take a short ferry ride to Alert Bay. From Comox you’ll travel north through Campbell River and Quadra Island, Telegraph Cove and it is possible to travel all the way to the Queen Charlottes. You can also travel south on the train from here and add days in Courtenay, Nanaimo, Duncan, Chemainus and Victoria. Overnight in Alert Bay.

Day 5 - Alert BayThis morning join Porgie on his boat to observe the killer and humpback whales that frequent the waters on Johnstone Straight. While in this prime feeding grounds he will use a hydrophone to listen to the whales communicate. As you cruise the in-tricate coastline there is a good chance you might spot dol-phins at play as Porgie easily navigates narrow waterways to ancient village sites. Dinner is a traditional beach barbecue with the Cranmer family. Overnight in Alert Bay.

Day 6 - Alert BayToday take advantage of an unscheduled day to immerse yourself in the experience of a First Nations community. The “must do’s” include viewing the largest collection of re-turned artifacts at the U’mista Cultural Centre, visiting the ocean front village art galleries and hiking on the boardwalk through old-growth rain forest in the ecological park. Make sure to visit the Big House and meet the T’sasala Cultural Group Traditional Dancers and singers, meet with master carvers and local artists, canoe paddle and learn the skill of cedar weaving at Culture Shock. There are many totem poles on the island, at the burial ground. The tallest pole in the world is by the Bighouse. Overnight in Alert Bay.

Day 7 - Alert Bay - Vancouver This morning, your Talking Totem Tours escort will trans-fer you to the Port Hardy airport for your return flight to Vancouver Airport. On the way, in Port Rupert, meet master carvers Stan and Calvin Hunt and visit Copper Gallery.

Talking Totem Tours offers the all inclusive escorted tour from Vancouver - Port Hardy starting at $2,600 double The tour includes waterfront accommodations at a refurbished heritage hotel, an eco-lodge and a B&B. www.talkingtotemtours.com Contact Audry for a 10 per cent discount with mention of this article. 604.989.2897 or email: [email protected] information for a self-guided drive tour of this area can be found at: Aboriginal tours and Accommodations for BC Canada www.aboriginaltoursbc.com

Talking Totem Toursgroup tours, escorted tours

private journeys earth friendly event supplies

ancient village sites, wild-life viewingfestivals and pristeen nature

www.talkingtotemtours.com [email protected]

aboriginaltoursbc.com604.989.2897

Candace with daughter Talking trees


Species At RiskMNBC has completed a new data and map

management system that stores Species at Risk information and produces maps from Métis

Traditional Knowledge interviews. The system has been developed by the University of British Columbia and MNBC as an extension of the joint BC Métis Mapping initiative. It is one more set of information and maps that the MNBC Ministry of Natural Resources can use when engaged in consultation or environmental protection activities. The project was funded through the Aboriginal Funds for Species at Risk program of Environment Canada.

For 2009/10, the second phase of this project has been approved by Environment Canada. Activities in 2009/10 will include: 1) seven regional Species at Risk workshops, 2) collection of forty SAR Traditional Knowledge interviews, 3) one workshop with a First Nation community to showcase the technology, 4) entering information from 40 interviews into the SAR database.

The Director of Natural Resources and Captains of BCMANR will be holding a workshop in each region to discuss Traditional Knowledge, Species at Risk and natural resource management. During these workshops, interviews related to traditional use and SAR will be also be undertaken. This will

also be a rare opportunity for MNBC staff and BCMANR Captains to engage in discussion with Métis harvesters and traditional knowledge holders.

MNBC has indicated to Environment Canada that we would be open to share the technology that has been created by this project. Other aboriginal people will be interested in this process because it is cost effective and information collected is properly archived at UBCO. The MNBC Ministry of Natural Resources has proposed to hold a workshop with a First Nation in central BC. The First Nation selected has a good history of relations with Métis harvesters and would benefit from an ability to collect and manage their Traditional Knowledge. One component of the workshop will be how authority to use the system is granted and what conditions would apply.

Finally, the 2009/10 SAR project will enter the information, collected through Métis interviews, into the database. Maps displaying the information will then be available to MNBC natural resource managers.

MNBC NATURAL RESOURCES

Whispering Winds Spring 2009 23

Stó:lo (pronounced Stah-low ) means “People of the River.” The traditional territory is located ninety minutes east of Vancouver and includes the Fraser Valley, much of the Lower Mainland and the Harrison Lake watershed. The Stó:lo Traditional Terrtitory includes both sides of the Fraser River from Fort Langley to Yale.

by Audry Lochrie



The Stó:lo are happy to welcome the

world to their significant Aboriginal Cultural event, the Spirit of the People Pow Wow, July 24th, 25th and 26th, 2009 at the Prospera Centre in Chilliwack, BC. This will be one of the largest Aboriginal cultural events of 2009.

“Our land is spirited with longhouses and cultural interpretive centres waiting to welcome you,

tribal dancers ready to perform, premier art and gift galleries and feasts carefully prepared for you to delight in.” www.stolotourism.ca credit

The Stó:lō are looking forward to hosting this new Aboriginal Cultural Tourism event and the opportunity to give visitors a taste of what they have to offer. This is a first annual event, a real legacy, and will create much awareness around the world for First Nations and all Aboriginal Peoples. The event is already attracting interest from across the mountains, and into the US. The participants are highly respected for their strength and year-round commitment to prepare physically, spiritually, mentally and emotionally in order to compete in this high-caliber competition.

The Stó:lō support the healing way, the diversity of cultural sharing and the excitement of this Public Welcome Event. The Pow Wow will showcase for the first time, West Coast Drumming, through a new category of hand drums, the West Coast Hand Drum Contest. The event incorporates a market and will host over thirty five artists at the indoor Aboriginal Artisans Market on the concourse. Visitors can look forward to a gastronomic adventure of traditional cuisine with June’s bannock, the sweetest tasting Chilliwack corn, smoked and candied salmon, Indian teas and Indian ice cream.

This is a new Pow Wow for Chilliwack and the Stó:lō Traditional Territory. It is open to all peoples, and the event planners look forward to many communities and nations joining in the celebrations.

This event is one of the many projects currently being spear-headed by Paula Cranmer-Underhill, ‘Namgis, from Alert Bay, and ‘Nlaka’pamux, from Spapium, Lytton to develop Stó:lō tourism. With an unwavering commitment and passion for Aboriginal tourism, she has championed numerous Aboriginal tourism initiatives, including leading the development of the much-celebrated Stó:lō Artisan

Centre. Over 70 First Nations artists representing sixteen different First Nation Communities from throughout the Sto:lo Territory and British Columbia now have an artisan centre in the Fraser Valley. This artisan centre addresses a long identified need for Aboriginal artists throughout Stó:lō to have a formal stage from which to showcase and market a wide range of high quality First Nations art. Paula is the Chair of the Spirit of BC Chilliwack Committee, and initiated the Aboriginal Spirit: Honouring Women, Arts, & Fashion, an annual event celebrating Aboriginal women achievers and showcasing Aboriginal artisans and fashion designers. She participates on the Xá:ytem Resource Development Committee, is a founding board member of Tourism Chilliwack Inc., and the Aboriginal Business Service Network BC Society. She was the recipient of the Coast Hotels & Resorts Ambassador Award in 2008 from the Aboriginal Tourism Association of BC for the work she does to raise the awareness of Aboriginal people in BC, Canada, and the world. She enjoys activities related to her cultures including creating blankets, aprons, cedar and other regalia and learning the complex dances and language and writes back in time stories related to her ancestors’ histories.

Zack and Carol Calling


She recently led the BC 150 Rivermania event honoring the Fraser River and its people, history and culture and spear-headed a traditional Stó:lō welcome and opening ceremony at the Shxwhá:y First Nation Smokehouse. “It’s rarely open to the public, so it will be a great opportunity to experience the historic site,” said Cranmer-Underhill. Events were also held in Chawathil, at the Telte Yet Campsite in Hope, and at the Downtown Central Community Park, as well as at Hereditary Chief Frank Malloway’s Long House at Yakweakwioose, and at the Xá:ytem Interpretive Centre in Mission. Many Sto:lo helped to stage and provide their cultural sharing at the events, including salmon feasts, traditional dancers, and ceremony.Paula is the Community Development Officer for Stó:lō Community Futures and Manager of the Sto:lo Tourism

Commission, has been spearheading these initiatives and knows first hand the value they are to First Nations artists. “Working in cooperation with the Sto:lo Development Corporation, my role here is to raise the profile of our Aboriginal entrepreneurs – in this case, our significant artist community. I help mentor them along their path to success and this is our traditional way,” said Cranmer-Underhill. “My purpose in life is to make a difference in the lives of our people - to share information, contacts and knowledge.”Thanks to both the tireless efforts of Paula and the dedication and commitment of the Sto:lo Tourism Commission members and diverse Stó:lō Artisan Centre community, they are keeping their traditions and culture alive in celebration, festivals, art, and every day life.

Their area showcases both an archeological paradise, a spectacular natural environment and cultural activities that promote sharing.There is a very strong core of First Nation leaders, close to three hundred artists and carvers giving the traditional Stó:lō territory the potential to be a thriving cultural destination for purchasing high quality artwork, cedar carvings and traditional weaving and crafts. The area is home to Xa:ytem, an ancient sacred site, the renowned Sasquatch pictographs, healing hot springs and a significant number of cultural tour suppliers who are leaders in keeping their language, history and traditions alive and vibrant today.

The Stó:lō communities have a number of traditional longhouses. It wasn’t until the 1960’s that they were able to openly participate in longhouse ceremonies and this history is evident in the architect. One of the oldest and best original state buildings is located on the Stó:lō Nation Government office site in Chilliwack on the Coqaleetza lands and is in a fragile state, however external tours are available if arranged ahead with one of the cultural leaders of the history, Maxine Prevost. The House of Long Ago and Today provides cultural interpretation through a number of hands on stations, and is the living presentation of the book, “You Are Asked to Witness.”

The Sto:lo people keep tradition and culture alive in celebration, festivals, art, and every day life. You have been welcomed to participate in The 1st Annual Spirit of the People Pow Wow, July 24th – 26th, 2009 and travel through the beautiful lands of the Stó:lō Take home a copy of the New Sto:lo Tourism DVD, Beautiful Lands of the River, available at the Sto:lo Artisan Centre in Chilliwack. View a quick 3 minutes on www.stolotourism.ca

They invite you to warm your hearts and enchant your senses and extend their welcome to a land of lush green hills, dense forest, pristine lakes, ancient hot

Salmon Feasts


springs and a rich cultural history that spans thousands of years.” Credit www.stolotourism.caThe venue for this event is the Prospera Centre at 45323 Hodgins Ave, Chilliwack, BC Canada. Located off Highway 1 it is situated in the heart of the Fraser Valley in beautiful Chilliwack. For more information contact Paula at [email protected] or 604-824-5276 2009 Festivals and Events in BCThis is where the First Nation peoples gather to celebrate their traditions and if you are looking for a true cultural immersion, plan to attend one of these events. The summer festivals are a time to gather, engage in friendly competition, and to affirm the continuity and strength of their cultures. They are open to the public are very easy going fun loving events, have traditional foods, games and opening and closing ceremonies. The celebrations and sporting events are important places for First Nations people to gather and meet each other, share stories and reconnect with families and are a traditional place of meeting and marrying. The events vary in size from small, traditional pow wows with one hundred people to high-volume events with thousands of First Nation peoples from all over North America. The Kamloopa Pow-wow is a public event that draws over ten thousand in attendance annually and still only has a few handfuls of non natives attending this public celebration.

The accommodations for staying nearby these community events range from high-end resorts to campsites and B&B’s to little old hotels and 60’s style motels.The ideal situation is to be able to combine a Pow Wow or war canoe race, with a First Nations guided tour and a visit to a sacred site. This combination is guaranteed to recharge you after vacationing in one of BC’s most scenic, nature-based, spiritually calming ancient cultures.

Making a telephone call to the local Band office is the place to start when looking for festival information and contact information. Municipal or government offices and tourism info centres in the areas should be able to help you find the Band offices contact information.

CALENDAR OF CONFIRMED 2009 EVENTS

April11th - 26th3rd annual Seabird Island Tulip Festival, Seabird Island - Agassiz 24th - 25th -26th9th Annual Delta School District Pow Wow - Vancouver

May 29th, 30th - 31stSeabird Island 40th Annual Festival - Agassiz

June5th, 6th - 7th Cultus Lake Indian Festival - Chilliwack5th, 6th - 7th Lil/wat Celebrations - Mount Currie 18th, 19th, 20th -21st Alert Bay 51st June Sports – Cormorant Island20thNational Aboriginal Day Celebrations - Kelowna 21stNational Aboriginal Day Xá:ytem Celebrations - Mission

July17th, 18th - 19thSqilax Pow Wow - Chase20thSwitzmalph Cultural Day and Pow Wow - Salmon Arm 24th, 25th & 26th Spirit of the People Pow Wow - Chilliwack24 th, 25th - 26thAlert Bay Sea Fest Celebrations - Cormorant IslandJuly 31st - August 2ndKamloopa Pow Wow - Kamloops

August 7th - 9thBonaparte Pow Wow - Cache Creek21st - 23rd Similkameen Pow Wow - Keremeos22nd - 23rdNeskonlith Traditional Pow Wow - Chase

September3rd - 6th Metis Celebration & PowWow, - Lewistown, Montana

November

21st - 22nd Fraser Valley Bald Eagle Festival – Harrison Mills, Mission

Qw'ontl'en

Fort Langley

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Ch-ihl-kway-uhk Chilliwack

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For more information on the Sto:lo Tourism Commission please visit us on the web at: www.stolotourism.ca ~ phone: 604-858-0009

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Be sure to pick up this brochure for a detailed map of interesting sites


Metis celebration & Pow wow

SEPTEMBER 3-4-5-6Fergus County Fairgrounds, Lewistown Montana

INFORMATION:Pow-wow- Robert LaFountain --– 1-406-248-2948

Booths & Camping- Donna Walraven--- 1-406-452-2812Parade- Casey LaFountain--- 1-406-252-3235 & [email protected]

Encampment & General Information- John LaFountain--- 1-406-252-3235 & [email protected]

THURSDAY-Open Camp, Métis National Anthem – 7PM, Open mic. & visitation FRIDAY-7 PM- Métis National Anthem, 8 PM- Fundraising Auction, 9 PM- (cash prizes): Fiddle Contest- Sponsored by Lewella Johnson, Waltz Contest- Sponsored by Carol Doney, Jig Contest- Sponsored by Fox Family, Open mic. – singing, fiddling & dancingSATURDAY-10 AM- Open mic. For speakers and storytelling, 12 PM- Parade (cash prizes), 1 PM- Pow-wow Grand Entry- Inside, 1 PM- (cash prizes) , Fiddle Contest , Jig Contest, Open Mic. Visitatio, 5 PM- Free Feed for all, 6 PM- Pow-wow Grand Entry- InsideSUNDAY-10 AM- Little Shell Tobacco Abuse Prevention Health Walk (prizes & snacks), 12 PM- Pow-wow Grand Entry- Inside, 12 PM- Music & Visitation- Outside, 5 PM- Closing Ceremonies

• Other activities happening on grounds

daily• Sponsors and co-

sponsors welcome for all events



International demand for more meaningful, culturally rich travel experiences, is propelling B. C.’s Aboriginal community to change the face of tourism in the prov-

ince.Anticipating market growth of up to 50 per cent over the next three years (visitor spending is projected to increase to $50 million by 2012), the Aboriginal tourism industry celebrated some of its best at the sixth annual Aboriginal Tourism BC Awards gala in late March.St. Eugene Golf Resort and Casino (www.steugene.ca) took home two of the 10 awards — one for Strength in Marketing and one for Tourism Conservation. Built on the site of a former residential school, this resort successfully turned a highly negative aspect of Aboriginal life into a culturally rich, financially prosperous legacy for the Ktunaxa Nation, its First Nation partners and the commu-nity at large. Strategic marketing and media relations initia-tives have generated strong results and earned widespread coverage for the Cranbrook business, according to informa-tion about the marketing award.The resort has consistently taken progressive action in such ways as creating environmentally sensitive areas, buffer zones and wildlife corridors, added a citation for the tourism con-servation award. “What really sets them apart is their overall philosophy of making sustainability a way of life. The resort recently received certification in Environmental Planning from the Audubon Co-operative Sanctuary Program for golf courses.”This year’s collection of outstanding recipients strongly rep-resents the innovative and enterprising ideas making B.C.’s tourism future look so bright. “At a time when tourism is such a competitive industry in Canada, it’s exciting to have so many incredible First Nations-run businesses giving B. C. its competitive advantage,” said Sophie Pierre, chair of the Aboriginal Tourism Association of BC (AtBC), the event or-ganizer.Other winners included:Peter August - Capilano Suspension Bridge (www.capbridge.com) - Coast Hotels and Resorts Ambassador Award. During his three years at Vancouver’s Capilano Suspension Bridge, Peter August has shared entertaining stories with thousands of visitors. Guests loved learning about nature, native plants and local wildlife from the perspective of a First Nations tour guide, so Peter quickly became very popular.Stephen and Cynthia Dennis, Duffin Cove Resort (www.duf-fin-cove-resort.com) - Inspirational Leadership Award. They opened Duffin Cove Resort in Tofino in 1996 and soon expanded to include adventure tours, like bear watching and Hot Springs Cove tours. They’ve collaborated with other First Nations (and non-First Nations groups) to build community partnerships; they provide over 80 per cent First Nations em-

ployment and offer job training and management training programs in the community. Joshua Anderson and Willie Lewis, Squamish Lil’wat Cultur-al Centre (www.slcc.ca) - Young Adult Achievement Award. In just one year, Joshua and Willie have contacted over 10,000 people including government organizations, NGOs media outlets, and special guests in an effort to raise aware-ness about Aboriginal culture.Upper St’at’imc Language, Culture and Education Society (www.uslces.org) - Power of Education Award. In an effort to revive and maintain their language and cul-ture, representatives from six of the St’at’imc communities around Lilooet formed a non-profit group with a goal to cre-ate a heritage and learning centre that will celebrate culture, honour community ties and be a central base for the local tourism economy.Culture Shock Interactive Gallery (www.cultureshockgallery.ca) - Cultural Authenticity Award. The gallery in Alert Bay continues to engage visitors with the cultural heritage of the Namgis First Nation. Co-owned by Barb, Donna and Andrea Cranmer, the gallery offers guests a chance to partake in authentic salmon barbecues, cedar jew-ellery weaving and scenic nature tours in traditional ocean canoes. This is in addition to locally designed First Nations clothing, jewellery and visual artwork it showcases.Tsa-Kwa-Luten Lodge (Cape Mudge Resort - www.cape-mudgeresort.bc.ca) - Excellence in Customer Service Award.Tsa-Kwa-Luten on Quadra Island takes great pride in its commitment to guest satisfaction. By consistently seeking feedback from guests and staff, and carefully analyzing areas for improvement, the resort strives to meet and exceed ex-pectations, resulting in a high percentage of return clientele and low staff turnover.FortisBC (www.fortisbc.com) - Industry Partner Award.FortisBC significantly contributed to growth and develop-ment of Osoyoos Indian Band Development Corporation’s (OIBDC) Nk’Mip Resort, Okanagan’s ultimate destination. They worked with environmental specialists to protect en-dangered species, shared the cost of necessary fencing, col-laborated to develop an endowment fund for the centre, provided meaningful employment for band members, and shared cost-effective green solutions with contractors.Julie Ovenell-Carter (www.theseboots.travel) - Media Award.An award winning journalist, photographer and author, Julie is based on Bowen Island. Her endless curiosity and passion contribute to her insightful work on successes and challenges of Aboriginal people. For complete information about the awards program and the cita-tions of winners check the AtBC website - www.aboriginalbc.com.

Aboriginal Tourism Awards



Young Adult Achievement AwardDoug Bourque, Director of Aboriginal Banking, BC and Yukon, BMO;Joshua Anderson and Willie Lewis, Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre;

Deanna Lewis, Squamish School District

Excellence in Customer Service AwardDon Foxgord, Vice President of Partnership Marketing, Tourism British Columbia;

Rod Naknakim, Director of Tsa-Kwa-Luten Lodge;Derek Lilly, Director of Operations, Snaza’ist Discovery Centre

Strength in Marketing AwardGail Murray, Manager of Aboriginal Banking, RBC;

Wendy Van Puymbroeck, Director of Sales and Marketing, St Eugene Golf Resort & Casino;Barb Audet, Chair of Tin Wis Resort Board of Directors

Industry Partner AwardMarlane Christensen, President, Industry Council for Aboriginal Business;

Michael Mulcahy, Vice President of Customer and Corporate Services, Fortis, BC;Glenn Mandziuk, CEO, Destination Osoyoos

Inspirational Leadership AwardJeannie Cranmer, BC Hydro;

Cindy and Angie Dennis, Duffin Cove Resort in Tofino; Douglas Green, Cariboo Chilcotin Jet Boat Adventures

Media AwardRoger Harris, Enbridge Gateway Northern Pipeline;

Julie Ovenell-Carter;Leonard George, Tsleil-Waututh First Nation Economic Development Department

Cultural Authenticity AwardGary Holisko, Land Management Program Manager, BCTC;

Andrea and Barb Cranmer, Culture Shock Interactive Gallery;Web Bennett, Tour Coordinator, Kitselas Canyon National Historic Site

Coast Hotels and Resorts Ambassador AwardChris Norris Jones, Coast Hotels and Resorts;

Peter August, Capilano Suspension Bridge;Paula CranmerUnderhill, Sto:lo Tourism Commission



History of the Point Blanket

For over two centuries, the Hudson’s Bay Company point blanket has been

a familiar item in Canada and around the world. People get as much pleasure today from the

blanket as when they were first introduced into the fur trade in 1780. Canadian furs from animals such as the beaver were in demand in Europe and were used for the latest style of hats and coats. Fur was one of the items that Natives often traded with Europeans in exchange for a manufactured item like the blanket.

The “point” system was invented as a means of indicat-ing the size of a blanket, in a way the points are a kind of code or a label indicating the blanket’s size. The indigo lines woven on to the side of each blanket identify the number of points. The number of points represents the finish size of the blanket, not its value in terms of beaver pelts as is sometimes believed. Point blankets rapidly became extremely popular with the native peoples.

Even though blankets had been a staple of the fur trade to the natives and Hudson’s Bay Company men prior to 1780, it was not until the first shipment to Fort Albany in 1780 that they were shipped to on a regular basis. By 1860, consistency of both sizes and colours was estab-lished.

The white blanket, woven with a wide coloured stripe

or bar at each end, was originally made for winter use. These blankets were popular with the First Nations people as they provided excellent camouflage in winter. Different colours were popular in different regions of Canada. The recognized blanket with stripes of green, red, yellow and indigo, sometimes referred to as “chief ’s blankets” are also known as multi-stripes. Introduced around 1800, they were later called “Queen Anne’s co-lours” because during her reign nearly a century ear-lier (1700-1714), these colours were the fashion colours of the day. Additional colours were designed to meet the needs of home decor colour themes of the cur-rent period. For over two centuries, the Hudson’s Bay Point Blanket has been part of the rich history of North America and continues to do so today with their latest point blanket for the 2010 Olympics. This is the third blanket to have four stripes of colour, the second was the millennium blanket in 2000.

The weavers of Witney and Oxfordshire were the prin-cipal suppliers of Hbc blankets. The wool was (and still is) a blend of varieties from Britain and New Zealand, each selected for its special qualities that will make the blanket water resistant, soft, warm and strong. While the Hudson’s Bay Company never actually manufac-tured the blankets, it did play a vital role in ensuring the quality and manufacturing standards of the blan-kets that they imported to the new world. Around 1890, the Hudson’s Bay Company began attaching a label to


the blankets to ensure that buyers would be in receipt of the authentic article, as there were many compa-rable blankets on the market.

The Plains Indians often wore the blankets instead of buffalo robes and used them to make coats. The Métis peoples fashioned the blanket into a wrap coat with hood and fringing called a capote.

Many early point blankets have sur-vived into the 21st century and have become collector’s items. Nowa-days genuine point blankets have become very collectible and can fetch up to thousands of dollars. The main determinants of value include age, size, colour, pattern, rarity and condition. Particularly collectible point blankets are the Coronation blankets; the one produced for the 1953 coronation of Queen Elizabeth II brings an average price of $600.00 for a good condition blanket. Gen-erally, older point blankets are more valuable than regular wool blankets of the same age. With proper care and storage, your point blanket will give many years of service and will become a valued family heirloom.

There are a number of clues to dat-ing the manufacture of various point blankets. If the blanket has a label, the task is easy. If the blanket does not have a label, the task is a great deal

more difficult. For any collectors or general point blanket enthusiasts I recommend Harold Tichenor’s The Blanket: an Illustrated History of the Hudson’s Bay Point Blanket and his second book A Collector’s Guide to

Point Blankets.

Happy collecting or just enjoy your wonderful point blanket or capote, which ever you choose to wrap yourself in.

32 Whispering Winds Summer 200932 Whispering Winds

My story occurred many years ago at the head of the Taku River in Northwest BC. It is one of my favourite places and

I have many fond memories of that part of the country. There was a log cabin at the confluence of the Nakina River and the Inklin River which marks the beginning of the Taku River. The Taku’s estuary is at Tulsequah and empties into Alaskan waters, southeast of Juneau Alaska. I spent two winters trapping there and several falls living in the cabin while working for the Alaskan and Yukon fisheries. I was fortunate to be able to spend a lot of time on the Taku watershed, fishing, hunting, trapping and exploring the country. The rivers were teeming with fish, there were grizzly and moose everywhere and herds of mountain goat on the ridges above the rivers.

At the time I was there you could still see the remains of the Hudson Bay Company Fort Taku, originally Fort Durham, established by James Douglas in 1840. The cabin we lived in had belonged at one time to Captain Billy Strong, a river boat captain and also a supplier of alcohol. There were remains of copper coils and vats for his stills, large root cellars, broken bottles and wooden kegs; he had a brisk business for many years supplying the traders and miners during the gold rush to the Klondike. On the ridges around the cabin and up the Nakina River there were Tlingit grave houses, often decorated in the Russian Orthodox style. The remains of their people were cremated and some were put in elaborately decorated tea chests that had been traded from China.

My first winter at the cabin there were three of us there for four months, my boyfriend and I trapped the Nakina and Inklin Rivers and our partner trapped down the Taku. I was still learning the craft of trapping and as quite often the case, learning the hard way.

One unusually warm day I head out on my snowshoes up the Inklin River to check my marten sets, and before long I came upon a large, prime marten in one of the traps. The marten had just recently been caught and was easy to remove from the #110 Conibear trap. Feeling rather pleased with myself I popped him into my canvas bag and tied the flap down, and headed down the trail again.

Before long I heard a curious, scratching, wheezing sound, and then to my horror the pack started to move against my back.

Just when I realized what was happening I felt a sharp tug on my hair braid, and heard snarling, snapping and growling. I was frantically trying to get the pack off, but the marten had a hold of my braid and was trying to pull himself out of the pack. Finally, in sheer panic I pulled the pack off and flung it to the ground. And I am embarrassed to say, I jumped up and down on it with my snowshoes. By the time I got a hold of myself, the marten was motionless and I looked around to see if anyone was watching this performance in the middle of the Taku watershed 50 air miles from Atlin. I am sure there must have been a squirrel snickering or a raven chuckling nearby.

Although it shook my confidence, I still aspired to be a serious, professional trapper. And it definitely wasn’t a story I shared with the elders and the other trappers at the spring rendezvous. But in retrospect, these are the very moments you never forget, even though embarrassing, and that one day you do share. I am pretty sure those experienced trappers and remarkable elders that I admired and learned from had their own such moments out on the trap lines and the hunting trails.

The moments we experience become our stories and eventually our traditions. We need to realize how very important they are to who we really are as individuals, as people and as Métis.

The Other Side of “the Line”Stories you don’t usually hear from the TraplineOne of Those MomentsBy Kim Hodgson

Kim sitting in her log cabin


MNBC Minister for Economic Development, Dan Pope, hosted an economic Development Forum for BC Métis

Businesses. Approximately 75 Métis citizens and dignitaries attended this event held in Vancouver. The forum provided information and potential opportunities for Métis business across the province. Large businesses such as 2010 Commerce Centre, Business Connections manager, Ken Veldman; the Tal;axtxw Aboriginal Capital Corporation manager and John Johnstone, Chief SME Stakeholder Engagement were some of the guest speakers. Also in attendance were the Minister of Small Business, Technology and Economic Development, Hon Ida Chong, Royal Bank representatives, CESO BC manager, VANOC, VanCity and MNBC President Bruce Dumont. It was a great time for business people to network with fellow Métis entrepreneurs and MNBC staff.Attendees of this forum were given an insight into how to bid for government jobs, organize proposals for funding and how to talk to the proper officials when looking for unique jobs to bid on. Plenty of time for questions were allotted and people came away feeling they were on the right track to expand their businesses.Economic Development is vital to the sustainability of Métis Nation BC. Therefore it is of the highest priority for Minister Dan Pope. “We must identify opportunities for our Métis Communities to ensure sustainability, especially during our current economic challenges,” states Minister Pope.

MNBCMétis Nations Holds Economic Development ForumMarch 21, 2009

Another priority is to work with Vancouver 2010 – MNBC is in the process of linking Métis business owners with 2010 opportunities. Watch the MNBC website for information on procurement and other opportunities throughout the province. For more information contact Marcel Chalmers MNBC 2010 Coordinator at 604-801-5853. Check the website www.mnbc.ca for continuous updates.

Minister Dan Pope gives Opening Address

Bruce Dumont, Pres, Dave Hodgson, VP and Dan Pope Economic Development Minister

Dan Pope, Royal Bank Representatives and Bruce Dumont

Dean Trumbley, Megan Brown, Sherry Daniels, Malonie Langthorneand Bruce Dumont


NATIONAL MICHIF CONFERENCE

Submitted by Colleen Hodgson

unforgettable performance in a Métis play that was both h u m o r o u s and musical. The evening continued with performances by Métis artists from across British C o l u m b i a , led by dance

On March 22 to 26, the third Michif Language Immersion Camp took place in Harrison

Hot Springs. Stella Johnson from Vancouver Island facilitated the camp and twenty-four (24) students attended, including President Dumont and Minister Therrien. Several of the students were attending for their third year and consisted of parents and their children.

On completion of the Michif Immersion Camp, the students participated in the 8th National Michif Language Conference in Harrison Hot Springs. The conference was hosted by MNBC and took place on March 27, 28 and 29. Speakers from Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia attended the conference and participated in workshops facilitated by language speakers from British Columbia.

One of the highlights of the conference was the ‘Language Circle”. All delegates were given the opportunity to share their values and beliefs in relation to their language and share stories and experiences. The circle was very successful and Métis people from across Canada commented on how they had new hope that all Métis languages including Cree and Michif would be revitalized.

The Michif Language Immersion Camp and the National Michif Conference were filmed and a language DVD will be produced from the footage. This was made possible by a partnership between MNBC and the Gabriel Dumont Institute in Saskatchewan. It is critical that we archive our languages for future generations and the DVD will be a step forward in this direction.

Youth are integral to intergenerational transmission of the Michif language and several youth attended the conference from across Canada. Minister Stephanie Albiston and Director of Youth Megan Brown participated in the conference and shared a presentation on Michif language initiatives developed by the youth. The Tri-River Métis Association from Smithers created a painting that depicts how they feel about their vibrant Métis culture. The painting was presented at the conference and honoured guests received a framed copy. The painting has gained a life of its own since the conference and was showcased by the BC United Métis Youth Circle at the National meeting in Winnipeg and is being crafted into a quilt to be displayed at the 2010 Olympics at part of the Four Host First Nations pavilion.

On Saturday evening the Michif Immersion Camp students gave an

Métis Nation British Columbia

Maddy McCallum - Fancy dancing Fiddling Champion Aimee Fauteax and her dad on guitar

Maddy McCallum

Youth Chair Stephanie Albison



Ministry of Culture, Heritage and Languageinstructor Bev Lambert and fiddler Rene Therrien. The conference was very successful and President Poitras from Métis Nation Alberta is excited to be the host next year.

MNBC is working with the Northwest Community College (NWCC) in Terrace to deliver an Aboriginal Language Conversation Program in fall 2009. The program will be part of a language revitalization program that includes First Nations and Métis languages. MNBC is developing the curriculum that will be delivered and has hired a Métis instructor that will facilitate the one (1) week course. The program is part of the NWCC three year Aboriginal Service Plan, and a second Michif Language Conversation program will take place in 2010. This is the beginning of implementing the Michif language in all post secondary institutions in British Columbia.

Part of the MNBC BC150 Project was the production of a Métis Music DVD for distribution to Métis communities. The University of British Columbia Okanagan (UBCO) is in the final development stages and the DVD will be packaged and distributed in the next few weeks. The DVD showcases Métis artists from across British Columbia and reflects on the uniqueness of Métis fiddle music. The DVD will be sent to all school districts in BC and will be available from MNBC as well.

Métis Nation British Columbia

MC Tom McCallum, Min. Rene Therrien, Pres Bruce Dumont, Chief Willie Charlie from Chehalis Band, MNC Pres Clem Chartier, Allan Morin,-SNMA VP, Kim Hodgson, Tri-River Pres, and Alicia Hooper- Youth rep

Youth Chair Stephanie Albison

Les Pruden, MNBC and Mary Wells, MNA

“In the forest, on the river, and across the western plain...”

The Tri-River Métis Youth depiction of our vibrant Métis culture.



Delegates at the Métis Na-tion British Columbia

Health Forum, “Leading the Way to a Healthier Métis Nation”, had the opportunity to hear Joel Lamoureux, an inspirational Métis speaker, share his amaz-ing story of personal triumph.

Joel’s story, titled “Born to Lose, Today is Your First Day”,

provides you with life-changing inspiration, a real life demon-stration that makes you believe in yourself and all that you are capable of. Joel reached 600 lbs in his mid-30’s before hitting rock bottom and realizing that his lifestyle was killing him. His decision to fight his way back to health included a gastric-bypass in 2003. He looks at this as one tool that helped him fight his way to better health.

Today Joel, physically fit in mind and body, is a well-known radio personality and lives with his family on Vancouver Island. Joel aims to “inspire, motivate and educate” with his story of struggle and success.

“The story of my success story is starting to garner atten-tion across the country with both aboriginal and non aboriginal groups. It’s rare that somebody has lost such a significant amount of weight and managed to keep it off through lifestyle change and healthy living. I’m so pumped to share my story and I’m now ac-tually working with a publicist/marketing firm (Impact Visual) with a plan of doing inspirational speaking full time. There are some many people dealing with these tough issues and I just want to help make a difference and let others know that they CAN do it.

My story is about health and wellness and obesity but also transcends those boundaries to include overcoming obstacles, mental health and much more,” states Joel. “Thanks so much. Treat Each Day Like It’s Your First!”To learn more about Joel, or to book him for an event check out his website, www.borntolose.ca or email him at i n f o @ b o r n t o l o s e . c a .

Born to Lose Matthew Klein, a Métis youth from Kamloops, was

named the top male Aboriginal athlete in Canada when he re-ceived the 2008 Tom Longboat Award from the Aboriginal Sports Circle. The great honour was be-stowed upon his at a national banquet in Winnipeg on May 7. The Tom Longboat Award, estab-lished in 1951, celebrates and hon-ours the memory of Tom Longboat. One of Canada’s Òmost celebrated and accomplished athletesÓ Tom

Longboat was a member of the Onandaga Nation. The award recipient must excel in three areas: personal commitment to athletic development and achievements in sport; positive role in sports and community; concern for holistic development. Klein is a Target Sports athlete who’s drive, determination and talent have been recognized regionally and nationally. At 18 years of age he has accomplished much to be proud of. He has competed in World Cups as part of the 2008 Ca-nadian National Men’s Air Rifle team, at the Canadian In-ternational Toronto Grand Prix competition, Canada Winter Games, Canadian Smallbore Nationals, and as a member of Aboriginal Team BC at the 2008 North American Indig-enous Games in Cowichan. Klein has earned medals and top placements, broken records, and is now world ranked. Klein’s commitment to excellence in his sport con-tinues. He is a member of the 2009 Shooting Fed-eration of Canada High Performance Team, and as-pires to compete at the 2010 Commonwealth Games. He has attended the University of Victoria, and is now study-ing at Thompson Rivers University in Computer Science. Stephanie Albiston, Métis Nation British Columbia Minister Responsible for Sport and Youth, said, ÒMatthew’s success is well-deserved and we are very proud of his achievements. Congratulations to Matthew for earning such a high honour. I commend Matthew for being such an incredible role model for Métis and all Aboriginal youth across Canada.

Métis youth athlete wins prestigious national award

HEALTH & SPORTS

Joel Lamoureux - 2003 “Before”

Joel, in 2009, watches while Stella holds up his “too big” pants.

Elder Stella Johnson congratulates Matt at Cowichan NAIG


MNBC HEALTHMany exciting things are happening in the MNBC Ministry of Health! We have received funding for two federal proposals: The Aboriginal Health

Transition Fund from Health Canada and the Chronic Dis-ease Surveillance Proposal through the Public Health Agen-cy of Canada.Enhanced Surveillance for Chronic Disease GrantOur Enhanced Surveillance for Chronic Disease proposal was approved through the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC). This two-year funding grant will support MNBC in engaging the provincial Ministry of Health Services to work on a data-matching agreement.

We are very pleased to have contracted Dr. Peter Hutchin-son as the Chronic Disease Surveillance Program manager, and we warmly welcome him. Dr. Hutchinson has a Doctor-ate Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from UBC Vancouver. He specializes in health re-search with Aboriginal com-munities. Dr. Hutchinson has previously worked with MNBC as a research assistant to Dr.

Mike Evans, co-author of the Report on the Statistical De-scription and Analysis of the 2006 Métis Nation of British Columbia Provincial Survey and co-facilitator of the data-matching workshop at the MNBC Health Forum. He belongs to the Métis Nation and enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife and two young daughters. “I am very excited about this opportunity to work with the MNBC.” Dr. Hutchinson said, “The Data-Matching agree-ment will be a great benefit to the Métis Nation. This pro-gram is a critical step in improving the health of the Métis Nation.” Dr. Hutchinson can be reached at [email protected] Health Transition FundBruce Dumont, MNBC’s President and Minister Responsi-ble for Health is pleased to welcome five new Métis Regional Health Coordinators. These part-time employees will be home based and engage with Chartered Communities and their area health authority to facilitate increased access to existing health programs and services, and to identify gaps and barriers to service for Métis people throughout BC. The response to the job posting was impressive, and we feel that these positions will have a huge impact on future health service delivery. Due to our budget limitations, the positions were assigned to geographical health authorities which over-lap MNBC’s seven regions.Vancouver Island Health Authority (VIHA) - Romy Pritchard [email protected], is your Regional Health Coordinator. Romy has two Bachelor degrees; one in Fine Arts and an-other in Human and Social Development. All the Chartered

Communities on Vancou-ver Island are within her c a t c h m e n t area. Romy is based in Vic-toria, and her cell phone number is 250-896-2786.Vancouver Coastal Health Authority (VCH) - Holly Tennant [email protected], is your Regional Health Coordinator for Vancouver Métis Cultural Society (the only Chartered Com-munity that falls within VCH’s catchment area). Her number is 604-454-8163. Holly has a Bachelor in Human Nutrition and is based in North Vancouver. She will also work with the provincial Health Service Authority.Fraser Health Authority (FHA) - Fraser Health’s Regional Health Coordinator is Timothy St. Denis [email protected]. Tim is a chiropractic doctor, and is based in Delta. Tim’s number is 604-341-9216 and he is the coordinator for all Mé-tis Communities in the Lower Mainland except the Vancou-ver Community.Interior Health Authority (IHA) - Cori Ducommun [email protected]. is based in Williams Lake and is a Registered Nursing (RN) student who holds a Bachelor of Science in Cellular Molecular and Microbial Biology. Interior Health has all Chartered Communities of the Thompson/Okana-gan and Kootenay Regions, plus Williams Lake from North Central. The catchment area is extremely large with thirteen Métis Communities in total. Cori’s cell number is 250-305-6138.Northern Health Authority (NHA) - Sandra Conlon [email protected] is your NHA Regional Health Coordinator. She is finishing her Degree in Social Work and is based in Terrace. Northern Health Authority is a huge catchment area and will be the most travel intensive. It includes all the Com-munities of North East, North West and all of North Central (excluding Williams Lake). Sandra’s cell number is 250-631-2003.Please join Tresley Tourond-Bouvier, Ministry of Health and Sport program assistant and myself, Tanya Davoren, di-rector of Health and Sport, in welcoming this fine group to MNBC’s Ministry of Health team. Regional Health Coordinators look forward to con-necting with all Métis Chartered Communi-ties in their catchment areas.

Dr. Peter Hutchinson

Tanya Davoren, MNBC Health Director, BC Ministry of Health, MNBC President

Metis Regional Health Co-ordinators


MNBC MINISTRY OF SPORTS

Using sport, recreation and physical activity to im-prove the health of First Nations, Métis and off-reserve Aboriginal people is the goal of the newly

formed Aboriginal, Sports, Recreation and Physical Activity Partners Council (ASRPAPC). Terms of Reference for the council were signed dur-ing an historic moment on April 22nd by British Columbia Association of Friendship Centres (BCAAFC) executive di-rector Paul Lacerte, First Nations Health Council (FNHC) CEO Joe Gallagher, Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) CEO Malonie Langthorne, and Aboriginal Sports and Recre-ation Association (ASRA) CEO/President Alex Nelson.Each organization has an equal vote and the Terms of Refer-ence outline the ongoing mutual respect and the commit-ment of all Aboriginal parties involved.

Canada Millennium Scholarship FoundationMillennium Excellence Award

Local Laureate ProfileNicolas Johnson

Nicolas is a Métis student at W.L. Seaton Secondary School in Vernon, BC. He is one of 96 students in British Columbia to receive a Local Excellence Award from the Canada Millennium Scholarship Foundation. He will receive $4,500.

Accomplishments

Nicolas is an outstanding student, athlete and musician who finds time to volunteer and share his knowledge with younger urban Aboriginal youth.

In addition to his long list of academic achievements, Nicolas has helped organize the Wheels for Change bike tour that raises awareness about the dangers of global warming. While leading the pack -- as bike tour leader -- over more than 1,000 km of terrain, Nicolas also orchestrated the filming of this event so that this story could be shared with others.

Film is an inspiration to Nicolas and he uses this medium to inform and inspire others. In addition to the filming of Wheels of Change, Nicolas spearheaded his own documentary. Last summer, he was given the opportunity to mentor film to urban youth at the Sookinchoot Youth Centre. He found great joy in using his knowledge to teach a younger generation.

Nicolas previously played the saxophone in the school’s concert band and jazz ensemble. He also volunteers at Vernon Jubilee Hospital.

Nicolas wants to be a medical doctor. In the fall, he intends to begin studies for a General Sciences Bachelor Degree at UBC.

Signing of Terms of ReferenceAlex Nelson, Malonie Langthorne, Joe Gallagher, Paul Lacerte

All four agencies committed to forming action-ori-ented partnerships as a means of advancing the Aboriginal health agenda and responding to the fundamental needs of First Nations, Métis and off-reserve Aboriginal people. This collaboration has resulted in the creation of a framework for a new provincial strategy on Aboriginal sport, recreation and physical activity. ASRPAPC was founded through a collaborative pro-cess led by provincial Aboriginal agencies that wanted to re-spond to the call to action within the B.C. Aboriginal Youth Sport and Recreation Declaration. Their first step was to establish a permanent Partners Council as a legacy of the 2008 Gathering Voices Youth as-sembly and the Cowichan 2008 North American Indigenous Games. Founding agencies included the BCAAFC, ASRA, FNHC, the Cowichan 2008 North American Indigenous Games (NAIG) Society and the B.C. Initiatives for Aborigi-nal Health.

All are working collaboratively for the betterment of all Aboriginal people in the province.


MNBC EDUCATION

April began with a meeting with Assistant Deputy Minister Fred Caron from the Office of the Federal Interlocutor (OFI).Minister Caron joined President Dumont, Vice President Hodgson, CEO Langthorne and Senior Staff in a tour of the Essential Skills Lab in New Westminster, the Employment and Training Center in Abbotsford and the expansion site on Peardonville Road. OFI has indicated that education and economic development are priorities for the federal government and the tour was a great opportunity to share MNBC’s success in education.

MNBC is engaged with the University of Victoria (Uvic) in the development of an Indigenous Framework for education at the university. The framework is a collaborative effort between Uvic and Aboriginal communities to support the transformation of Indigenous education within a mainstream university. The development of this framework is part of the Aboriginal Service Plan that is in its second year of implementation. The first meeting took place on April 28, 2009.

Métis students will have an opportunity to apply to the Irving K Barber Scholarship Society (IKBSS) for funding for post secondary education in September 2009. MNBC has been a part of the process that established the Aboriginal fund and the Director of Education and Culture is a representative on the Advisory Committee. Métis students will be able to apply to the fund and the information will be posted on the MNBC website.

Salmon Arm President, Eldon Clairmont and Minister of Education Hodgson have been working with the Okanagan College, (Salmon Arm Campus) on the construction of an Aboriginal Gathering Place for students. President Clairmont has been instrumental in ensuring that the Gathering Place is reflective of Métis and that people involved understand that Métis have a strong presence in Salmon Arm. The college has invited aboriginal artists to submit designs for the Gathering Place that reflect Aboriginal cultures and values.

Great Progress is being made in MNBC Education Ministry

2009 Courtenay-Comox School DistrictAboriginal Graduation Ceremonies

On April 7th, President Dumont joined the Métis Nation Greater Victoria community in celebrating the signing of the Sooke Enhancement Agreement (EA). The EA signifies an agreement between School District No.62, the Ministry of Education, T’Sou-ke (Sooke), Pacheedaht (Port Renfrew), S’cianew (Beecher Bay), and the Métis community. The Sooke school district has several Métis students and their success was celebrated at a traditional feast.David Stoddard Secondary School in Clinton hosted their third Annual Celebrating Our Success day to showcase Métis and First Nations Culture throughout School District #74 Gold Trail. Schools from across the District participated in the event including schools from as far away as Lytton and Lillooet. The Métis had an excellent showing put on by the David Stoddard students. These students were the first ones on the stage and did “The History of the Métis: Play and Jig”. Students were dressed as the Métis would have been years ago and the speaker gave a brief history on the Métis including excerpts of the life of Louis Riel and what he accomplished for the Métis. One of the teachers (Nikki Minnabarriet) from David Stoddard worked very hard to have the Métis showcased for us in this


wonderful event. This is in part to the hard work that Vice President Hodgson, Assistant Linda Koster and Director of Education Colleen Hodgson have done in working with School District #74 to ensure that the Métis are included in very important decisions regarding all issues within the School District including the Enhancement Agreement. In past years the Métis have been overlooked in this event so we are very proud to have accomplished receiving an invitation to participate this year. Director of Education and Culture, Colleen Hodgson met with the MNBC research team from the University of British Columbia Okanagan, which includes Dean Trembley and Director of Natural Resources, Gary Duccomun. The purpose of the meeting was to view the final draft of the MNBC educational DVD series that MNBC and UBCO have been developing. The DVD series is interactive and includes culture, harvesting, music and dance. It is an incredible educational resource and will be available to communities in May and will be distributed to all schools in British Columbia. The DVD will be launched officially in May 2009.

MNBC has been developing a Métis Resource Unit for Grade 4 and has met with the provincial Ministry of Education to discuss implementation. The MRU includes learning outcomes for Social Studies, Math, Science, Art and Music. The MRU is in its second draft and MNBC will be involved in the final editing process with the Ministry of Education

in May. MNBC will be delivering professional development workshops in all school districts to introduce the MRU once the final draft is complete.

An early childhood development pilot project will begin in two (2) Métis communities in May. The pilot project is collaboration between MNBC and the provincial Aboriginal Head Start (AHS) program. Fraser Valley Métis Association and Prince George Métis Association will work with AHS to implement the “Connections Box”. The “Connections Box” is an interactive cultural resource designed to engage Parents-Caregivers and to promote greater awareness and pride of our identity. Director of Women and Elders, Victoria Pruden was instrumental in MNBC’s involvement in this project.

On May 14th, Minister of Education, Dave Hodgson, Miki’siw Métis Association President Bryce Mercredi, Vice-President Ken McKivor, Veterans Walter and Director of Education and Culture, Colleen Hodgson joined in honouring Aboriginal students from the Courtenay-Comox school district. Métis students were sashed as part of an ongoing tradition that Miki’siw has been doing for fourteen (14) years. Noel and Diane Mineault joined the celebration as new “Island” Métis and photographed the celebration.

MNBC EDUCATION

Early Childhood Development

MNBC

Métis Nation British ColumbiaEarly Childhood DevelopmentInvolving families and communities in early childhood development is critical in order to create cultural awareness of Métis people. Métis Nation British Columbia has been working with Success by 6, Aboriginal Head Start and the United Way of the Lower Mainland to create early childhood development resources for communities to share. Early childhood programs and resources act as a critical avenue for laying the foundation of cultural literacy, heritage language learning, and positive Aboriginal identity.

Early Childhood Development DVDSuccess by 6 is a provincial initiative dedicated to providing all children with a good start in life. It helps to ensure that

Kristin Duncan and Quinn Pickering


children ages 0 to 6 develop the emotional, social, cognitive, and physical skills they need as they enter school. Success by 6 recognizes the importance of culture, language, self-determination and self-government to Aboriginal people in BC and is working with Aboriginal communities to enhance the lives of young Aboriginal children and their families.

In recognition of the diversity of Aboriginal people in BC, Success By 6 has begun implementing an Aboriginal Strategy designed to work with Aboriginal communities to increase representation in Success By 6 initiatives, strengthen community capacity, increase cultural awareness of Success By 6 partners, and promote awareness of the importance of the early years in the healthy development of children in communities.

MNBC, Success by Six and other Aboriginal partners created an inspirational DVD that illustrates how cultures and traditions result in the strength and resiliency of Aboriginal people in B.C. The 15-minute DVD focuses on the importance of the early period of life for our children and the fundamental importance of culture and language as the foundation for Aboriginal children’s development.

President Bruce Dumont supported this project and provides wisdom and insight regarding the importance of our children. The DVD discusses the critical role families and communities have to support the overall development and wellbeing of our children, and for the future of our communities. The DVD will be distributed to all Métis communities for use in meetings and gatherings and to inform and raise awareness regarding the importance of early childhood development. The DVD was designed to engage communities in dialogue regarding

needs and priorities of children in their own communities.

A b o r i g i n a l ECD Kit Project: The Connections Box“Connecting with Who We Are”

Métis people have been working to revitalize our language and culture and this resource

was designed to support this revitalization starting with the parents the children’s first teachers. It supports parents as the most i m p o r t a n t teacher in their children’s lives. When parents are s u p p o r t e d and nurtured their children benefit and the family and communities are revitalized.

The “Connections Box” is an early childhood development resource that was created by MNBC, Success by 6, United Way of the Lower Mainland and Aboriginal partners. The “Connections Box” starts out with a variety of resources that includes “Cultural treasures / symbols” and a “Circle Gathering” guide. The symbols are included to initiate stories, questions, conversations and interest, they represent only a small sampling to get you and your community started into developing a more reflective collection for you and your families.

The Connections Box is designed to be implemented within Circle Gatherings with Parents. The primary outcome of the Circle Gatherings is to raise the importance of the early years and the healthy development of young Métis children through illustrating how learning identify, culture and language are critical aspects in caring for, teaching and raising healthy Métis children. When we gain greater clarity of “who we are” and “learn our Identity”, our capacity to learn and grow is strengthened. When we share this understanding and experiences with the children in our lives, we thereby revitalize our culture, language and who we are as Métis People.

The “Connections Box” is in a developmental stage and will be introduced to two (2) Métis communities in B.C. and later in all communities. The communities involved in the pilot project will each have a facilitator that introduces the purpose, process and outcome of the “Gathering Circle”. The Gathering Circle will include an Elder and the Métis language will be used in the circle. The pilot project will provide recommendations and feedback for implementation into all Métis communities.


On May 7th, Kwantlen Park Secondary school presented the “Aboriginal Fine Arts Festival”. The project was the first of its kind at Kwantlen

Park and celebrated Aboriginal dance, music and theatre. Métis Cultural Coordinator and Instructor, Bev Lambert, coordinated Métis artists that performed in the festival. Bev and her dance group performed a dance that depicted the many peoples that are a part of Métis culture and celebrated the unique Métis culture through a theatrical performance.

Bev Lambert and Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) Director of Education and Culture, Colleen Hodgson were chosen as “witnesses” for the event and were given the responsibility of sharing the work being done at the festival, and sharing the messages with families and communities. President Bruce Dumont and Elder in Residence, Fraser McDonald presented the Kwantlen Park Principal with the Métis Nation British Columbia flag. Kwantlen Park has a room referred to as “the Den” where the flag will be hung from the rafters and join the many flags already there.

MNBC President Bruce Dumont along with Métis Elder Frazer MacDonald presenting the MNBC Métis Flag to the Students at the Aboriginal Day Celebrations at the Kwantlen Park Senior Sec. School in Surrey BC - This was arranged to bring more awareness about the Métis in BC schools to the attention of students and teachers at this large Educational facility in Surrey. This was held Thursday, May 7th in the

AM -Others in attendance were Métis Authors, George and Terry Goulet, Métis Jigger’/Dance Instructor, Bev Lambert, - MNBC Director of Education, Colleen Hodgson, MNBC CEO- Malonie Langthorne, Nova Métis Heritage Association President, Ken Fisher and Nova Métis Elder and student

Councillor Mr. Alvin Myhre.

“Métis Awareness” is an ongoing program that is being fostered in the Metro Vancouver Regional School Districts to make the General public more familiar with the Culture and History and the uniqueness of Métis people and how they fit in the Canadian mosaic of Nationalities in

Canada.Photo by Ken Fisher - fisherfoto@

shaw.ca

Kwantlen Park SecondaryAboriginal Fine Arts FestivalMay 7, 2009

Submitted by MNBC Director of Education & CultureColleen Hodgson

Bev Lambert jigging

The festival is one of the many events that Surrey school district has shared in supporting Aboriginal students. NOVA Métis Heritage Association is involved with the district and played an important role in the development of the Enhancement Agreement which was signed in 2008 by NOVA President, Ken Fisher.

Sharing the culture of Métis, First Nations and Inuit People through theatre, music and dance celebrates the uniqueness of each culture and at the same time reinforces the Aboriginal way of knowing and being. Métis Dance Instructor Bev Lambert generates a positive and joyful energy in all her performances and keeps the focus on the kids having fun. MNBC’s goal is to support all Métis communities and artists in sharing their culture, heritage and language.


The Ministry of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development introduced a strategy to provide funding to support the development and implementation of Aboriginal Service Plans. An Aboriginal Service Plan (ASP) is a three-year strategic and operational plan developed by a post-secondary institution and its Aboriginal communities that outlines goals for Aboriginal learners in terms of access, participation, and success and identifies specific actions to be implemented to meet these goals. Actions may include the development or enhancement of programs, student support services, outreach activities, partnership/affiliation agreements, alternative program delivery models, etc. This initiative will facilitate partnerships between institutions and communities to: 1. Increase the access, retention, completion and transitions opportunities for Aboriginal learners. 2. Increase the receptivity and relevance of post-secondary institutions and programs for Aboriginal learners, including providing support for initiatives that address systemic barriers. 3. Strengthen partnerships and collaboration in Aboriginal post-secondary education. It is through the ASP that MNBC and the Coastal Corridor Consortium that the Metis Nation British Columbia Students Awards have been made possible. The Coastal Corridor Consortium consists of three post secondary institutions; Vancouver Community College, Capilano University and Native Education College. Four Metis students will receive $1000.00 each to assist them in the pursuit of their post secondary education at Vancouver Community College, Capailano University and Native Education College. The funding will be awarded in memory of four Metis people that have contributed to the social movement of the Metis people and dedicated their lives to improving the lives of Metis people.

Howard Adams - Metis academic and activist Patty Mayo – Metis musician/singer Allan Hodgson – Metis community leader and education advocateArt Burd – Metis fiddler For more information on applying for the Metis Nation British Columbia Student Awards please contact: Colleen Hodgson MNBC Director of Education and Culture (604) 801-5853 [email protected]

Metis Nation British Columbia and Coastal Corridor Consortium Metis Student AwardsSubmitted by MNBC Director of Education & Culture

Colleen Hodgson

Native Education College students


Provincial Women’s Chairperson Message:Welcome to our new Métis Women of British Columbia leaders! I would like to congratulate our newly elected women representatives. The Métis women of British Columbia have four newly elected and acclaimed women’s representatives: Vancouver Island Region, Clara DalCol; Thompson Okanagan Region, Sherry Arko; Kootenay Region, Donna Wright; and the North East Region, Leanne McFeeters. The Métis Nation British Columbia election was a success, and we wish to thank all of the women who put their names forward to run in this election. The Métis Women of British Columbia are planning an inauguration and initial meeting for the Métis Women’s leadership. We wish to extend our thanks to Lee Fraser, Susie Hooper and Shania McCallum for your help in the election by contacting the women who were running making sure they were aware of the process and timelines. We appreciate the great job that Don Caverly and Dr. Natasha Caverly did in once again successfully administering a Métis Nation British Columbia election. We would also like to congratulate the Northwest Region 6 Youth Representative, Katherine Wolfenden, who was acclaimed. On behalf of myself, and Victoria Pruden, Director of Women and Elders, we would like to thank all of you who took the time to exercise your right to vote. We now have equal representation throughout the province, good work Métis women of British Columbia!

I would also like to extend my sincere “thank you” to our Métis Elders and Lower Mainland Chartered Communities for supporting MNBC and Metro Vancouver Urban Aboriginal Strategy Elders Engagement events this spring. Thank you to the Nova Métis Heritage Association, President Ken Fisher, and Elders Representative Tim St. Denis for hosting a wonderful Elders Brunch with guests, George and Terry Goulet, at Compass Point Inn in Surrey on Mar. 28th. Thank

MÉTIS WOMEN BC

you to North Fraser Métis Association, and office manager Sue Didier for hosting their events, an Elders come and go tea and lunch gathering, and an ongoing Elders beading circle. Lower Mainland Regional Director Henry Hall assisted with planning and hosting two Elders events, in Pitt Meadows and at our head office in Vancouver, and we wish to thank him for his ideas, work and support of our Elders. Thank you to MNBC Veterans Minister Lissa Smith and chairperson Walter Koenders for taking the time to attend several of these events as well; your support was greatly appreciated! We look forward to providing more opportunities for Métis Elders from throughout the province to participate in programs in partnership with Métis Nation British Columbia.

Father’s Day Message: Father’s Day is just around the corner and we would remiss if we did not send out something to the Papas, Dads, Grandfathers and Moshoms. This verse is for all Dads, Grandpapas, Uncles and Brothers:“Father’s day is your very special day … no one deserves it more than you. You’re someone we could count on, someone to love us unconditionally, and someone we appreciate. Happy Father’s Day!”

Mothers day message: While Mother’s Day has passed, we would like to send a Mother’s Day greeting to each and every one of our Kokums, Nanas, Grandmothers, Moms, Aunties and Sisters. This verse is for you:“Our wish for you is simple and straight from the heart … hope you always know what great WOMEN you are, and how very much you are always appreciated. Happy Mother’s Day!”

Prepared by V. Pruden on behalf of Rose Bortolon, and MWBC Leadership

Clara Morin DalColTaanshi! My name is Clara Morin DalCol, and I am the women’s representative for Region One. I was born in the Métis community of lle A La Crosse, Saskatchewan and later moved to Hay River, N.W.T., where I was married and my children were born. My husband and I now call Port Alberni home.

It is an honour to represent the Métis women of Britsh Co-lumbia. I look forward to working closely with the local com-munity representatives, as well as my counterparts in other regions, in a continuted effort to make sure that Métis women are heard and that issues important to them are addressed.Warmest regards, Clara Morin DalCol, Regional represen-tative Vancouver Island

MNBC Veterans’ Minister Lissa Smith, Elder Anne Johnson and Victoria Pruden, Director of Women & Elders


Donna Wright - Regional Representative KootenayI am a Métis woman presently living just outside of Nelson, near Balfore.

I was born in Cardston, Alberta and raised primarily in Edmonton (from 6-12 years of age in a residential convent). I have lived all over Canada and have been involved in human services for the past 40 years. I am the single mother of a daughter and son, and grandmother of three boys and one girl, ages 10 to 23 yrs.

I have been on the Victoria Native Friendship Board for 10 years concluding as president. I have worked both on and off First Nations reservations; coordinated building of a Aboriginal drug and alcohol treatment centre; coordinated training programs, human resource studies and worked as a First Nations School administrator

I have worked as a family support worker in Nelson for the past 17 years. I am presently a volunteer Aboriginal student liaison for Kutenai Art Therapy Institute (for the past 13 years). I also chaired the committee that acquired the accreditation for the school. For the past five years, to March 13th, I was president of the MNBC Nelson and Area Community.

Leanne McFeeters, Regional Representative North EastLeanne is a proud Moccasin Flats Métis citizen from Chetwynd. A mother of three, she knows the demands that raising a family brings, and is very committed to her family. She has been an outreach intervention worker, and a high risk youth worker.

MÉTIS WOMEN BC

Sherry Arko, Region 3 representative:Tansi, Hello! My name is Sherry Arko, and it is an honour and a privilege to be a voice for the Métis women of Thompson Okanagan Region.

I am a mother of three wonderful children, Christopher, Melissa and James, and a wife to a very loving and supportive husband, Frank. A few years back I learned I was Métis of Cree and French descent; this opened a wonderful door of opportunity. Being a member of the Two Rivers Community, working for the Interior Métis Child and Family Services and most recently for Whispering Winds Magazine provided me ground to embrace my culture more fully.

My passion is to empower others to believe in themselves. By believing in yourself you create wealth, health and happiness. I enjoy building relationships and networking. I understand the importance of listening to what others have to say. Recently I had the opportunity to talk to many women and listen to their concerns and hear lots of wonderful stories. Please feel free to contact me any time; I would love to hear from you.

I would like to thank all of those who encouraged and supported me to run for this position. To my wonderful friend Colleen you are such a beautiful treasure, thank you for all your help! I am looking forward to an exciting and rewarding term! Megwich!


Participants in the Tribal Journey brave cold waters.

British Columbia United Métis Youth Circle approved 12 projects across the province, in 2008-09, though the Urban Multi-Purpose Aboriginal Youth (UMAYC)

initiative. UMAYC funding supports community-based, cul-turally relevant projects and is made possible though fund-ing from the Department of Canadian Heritage. Here are a few examples of the great work being done in our communities through this initiative:Boundary Métis Community AssociationThe Boundary Métis Community Association project fo-cused on increasing awareness and understanding of Métis values, culture, and traditional practices, as well as recogniz-ing the diversity among Aboriginal cultures. By implement-ing workshops and cultural events the community is de-veloping spiritual, intellectual, emotional and physical well being, youth leadership, and fostering pride and respect for Métis culture among Métis and all Aboriginal youth. Salmon Arm Métis AssociationSalmon Arm Métis Association held several workshops throughout the year, with great success. The goals of the proj-ects were to give youth a better understanding of Métis histo-ry and culture, instilling them with a sense of belonging and pride. Youth participated in Red River cart building, beading and moccasin making, bannock baking, an outdoor hunt and Conservation Outdoor Recreation Education (CORE) train-ing, drum making, survival training and jigging lessons. Cowichan Valley Métis Association and Waceya Métis So-cietyBoth of these communities prepared and sent youth to par-ticipate in Tribal Journey 2008. Two Métis canoes joined over 100 other canoes and nations from as far north as Alaska and as far south as Oregon pulling to Cowichan Bay. Along the route the canoes were invited to rest and celebrate on the traditional territory of several host nations. In preparation for the journey, participants took part in Michif lessons, re-galia making, give-away making and jigging lessons. Once landed the youth and their support crews were honoured to be invited to march in the opening ceremonies of the North American Indigenous Games. The UMAYC initiative continues to bring Métis specific youth programming to our communities. British Columbia United Métis Youth Circle has approved projects, for 2009-10, in the following communities: Northwest Métis Associa-tion; Tri-River Métis Association; Cariboo Chilcotin Métis Association; North Cariboo Métis Association; New Caledo-nia Métis Association; Prince George Métis Community As-sociation; Métis Nation Columbia River Society; West Local - Nelson and Area; Central Local - Cranbrook; Salmon Arm

MÉTIS YOUTH

Métis Association; Waceya Métis Society; Fraser Valley Mé-tis Association/Chilliwack Métis Association; Métis Nation Greater Victoria; Cowichan Valley Métis Association; Mid-Island Métis Nation.To find out more about the projects that will be running and how you can participate please contact the MNBC Ministry of Youth at [email protected] or 1-800-940-1150.

SUCCESSFUL Youth Projects!

As part of their UMAYC project Boundary Métis Community As-sociation held a two day salmon smoking workshop.

Youth from Salmon Arm starting a fire during outdoor survival training.


MÉTIS YOUTH

Tri-River Métis Youtha Winner!

The Bulkley Valley horsewoman pageant is a competition for teenage girls who own horses. It is NOT a beauty pageant. The girls compete in 3 areas with their scores being added together to arrive at the winner. The areas of competition include the selling of raffle tickets (5% of mark), riding a specific horse pattern (10% of mark) and a speech competition (85% of mark).

FROM CHATTERS TO THE BULKLEY VALLEY

My name is Brittany Ewald. I am 16 years old and I am currently enrolled at Smithers Secondary School.This past year I have been competing in the Miss Bulkley Valley Horsewoman pageant as Miss Chatters. My sponsor has been Chatters Pizzeria & Bistro which is where I work.During the past 12 months, the seven girls and I learned so much. We took Toastmasters training, belly dancing, line dancing, yoga, self defence, modelling and public speaking. I found each course enjoyable and rewarding. Through this experience I have also met so many amazing people who have helped me in so many ways!The platform issue for the competition was the Bulkley Valley Brain Injury Association. We had a guest speaker talk to us about brain injury patients and how the money we raised would help.On May 9th we had our formal dinner and awards night. A portion of the money raised went towards our platform with the rest being used to help fly the newly crowned Miss Bulkley Valley Horsewoman and the two runners-up to Vancouver in August for the next step in the competition.I won prizes for my third place finish in the horse pattern competition and selling the most raffle tickets. I was named Miss Volunteer for putting in the most hours volunteering and also named Miss Entrepreneur as I raised the most money for brain injury. I was honoured to present the cheque for all money we raised to a representative of the Bulkley Valley Brain Injury Association.

It turned out that I also placed first! My title of Miss Chatters got changed to Miss Bulkley Valley Horsewoman! I received a new crown, a new sash, a new title and enough hair care products to last me a lifetime!This pageant has been such a wonderful experience for me! I’ve learned so many useful and fun things, and I have met so many amazing people including Miss Top Teen Canada 2008! I encourage anyone who qualifies to join this pageant in the coming years.Being crowned Miss Bulkley Valley Horsewoman means so much to me. I am honoured to represent our beautiful valley everywhere I go. I will continue to raise money for brain injury patients. I am travelling to Vancouver on August 23rd with the first and second runners-up to compete for Top Teen Canada. I am sure this will be an exciting and rewarding experience as well!

48 Whispering Winds Summer 200948 Whispering Winds Summer 2009

I accepted the position of Youth Grant Coordinator for Metis Nation Columbia River Society (MNCRS) for the 2008/09 term. This is a journey I had never taken before

and the unwritten pages of my journal seemed daunting.

CANOEING September 10th &11th A beautiful blue sky fall day here in the Rocky Mountains. �e rain and thunderstorms of the past couple of days have passed and the �rst workshop par-ticipants are about to paddle down the historic Columbia River. 7 Canyon Adventures of Golden provided us with �ve, two person canoes and two guides. A Metis Elder has accepted our invitation to share two half day canoe trips from Nicholson to Golden. A�er a blessing by our Elder, and water safety tips from our guides, we launched the ca-noes into the river. Both days were incredible; our guides and Metis Elder shared stories, historical tidbits, and natu-ral history information as we paddled down the Columbia River.

TANNING WORKSHOP September 19th, 20th, & 21st Father Sky was again on our side as we welcomed Billy Metcalf from Grand Forks to teach us the art of ‘traditional tanning’. A�er a Metis prayer by Elder and Vice President, Betty Hoogendoorn; Billy did a ‘show and tell’ on the many uses for animal hides. �e day was warm and the

work was hard. �e youth worked diligently removing hair and grain from four deer hides. Work was interspersed with a little fun as small amounts of fur and hide would �y unex-pectedly to a neighbouring worker. By the end of the third day we had four brain tanned, smoked hides. �is was an in-credible learning experience for the youth and adults alike.

BUFFALO RANCH October 3rd Today a group of youth visited our local Rocky Moun-tain Bu�alo Ranch, run by Karen and Leo Downey. �e day started rainy, but soon a�er we arrived at the ranch the rain stopped and we enjoyed a cloudy, but comfortable day. �e youth �rst watched Kokanee spawning in a small creek, and

then went to a viewing plat-form to watch the bu�alo. �ese incredible creatures and their importance to the Metis people were discussed. Leo then did a �re starting demo using a bow and stick. �e look on the kid’s faces as the tinder took to �ame was well worth the trip all by it-self. A�er a lunch of bu�alo burgers the youth had a chance to enjoy exploring the beautiful Blaeberry River. Along with special rocks and sticks, the kids found incredible grizzly bear tracks.

FIDDLING & JIGGING October 31st What could be better than an assembly with John & Vicki

Arcand; and Yvonne Chartrand. An hour was de�nitely not enough time for both the performers and the youth. �ankfully, the three-some were in Golden for three days o�ering workshops in �d-dling, guitar, and jigging.

WILLOW BASKET MAKING November 6th Today the youth would be mak-ing willow baskets. I had collected the willow/red osier the day be-

fore with great hopes of the youth taking a �nished basket home. We started the day with a Me-tis prayer, and then a talk covering a variety of baskets and the materials to make them. With only the willow/red osier at hand the students proceeded to make a basket of their own. �e end products were amazing.

MEDICINE WHEEL Novem-ber 13th & 14th �e ‘Medicine Wheel’ would be our only two day workshop. Yvonne Jobin from Calgary blessed us with her knowledge and skill. We spent the �rst day learning about the Medicine Wheel and how it relates to us. �e morning of the second day took us on a journey of self discovery. In the a�ernoon we made our own medicine bags. I felt some of the youth de�nitely learned things about themselves; I know I did.


MITTEN MAKING No-vember 27th & December 9th Two ‘mitten making work-shop’ were done, one in Inver-mere and one in Golden. �e idea for making mittens came about a�er our capote making workshop le� wool blanket remnants. In Invermere the day started with a Blackfoot prayer said by Sasha, one of the youth. I talked about the capote, the fur trade era, beads and the ’�ower beadwork people’ – us, the Metis. �e youth learnt two bead stitches as they launched themselves into the cre-ative process. Both workshops were enjoyed and well at-tended.

TALKING STICK January 14th Len Brunin from Canal Flats taught

this workshop on the ‘talking stick’. �e day started with a Metis prayer,

and then Len shared with the youth the importance of the

‘stick’ and the signi�cance of certain components used

in its’ making. �e youth creatively decorated their

talking sticks and at the end of the day were able to take

home a �nished product.

KNIFE SHEATH/POUCH MAKING Febru-a r y 26th & March 1st �is one day workshop on ‘knife sheath/ pouch making’ was presented in Invermere and Golden. We were honoured to have El-ders Yvette and Oliver Boyer attend the workshop in Inver-mere. Youth learnt the importance of bags and pouches to the 1st Nations, Metis, and Fur Trad-ers as clothing of the time peri-od was made with little regard to pockets. I had a variety of pouches and bags, with their appropriate contents, to share with the youth. �ere were also several examples of knife sheaths.�e youth decorated and made either a pouch or a knife sheath. �is was a very enjoyable workshop.

OUTDOOR SURVIVAL March 11th Rose Archibald, an outdoor enthusiast of Golden taught this workshop. In minus 23 degrees celsius weather the youth learned what supplies to take when heading into the back country, packing your backpack, proper clothing to wear, and shelter building. �ree separate shelters were constructed, includ-ing a quinzee (an Athapaskan snow shelter). Dressed in clothing depicting the late 1700’s Ryan Robison surprised the youth by appearing before lunch to share his-torical facts and the gi� of �re making with a �int and steel. �e ten youth that attended enjoyed the day despite the cold.

PINE NEEDLE BASKET MAKING March 31st �is workshop on ‘pine needle basket making’ was taught by Lillian Rose, a Ktunaxa Elder, in Invermere. A�er a Metis prayer the youth learned a little history on the use of baskets. A number of birch bark baskets were shown and discussed. �e youth were then taught to make a pine needle basket. By the end of a very enjoyable day most of the students le� with a �nished product in hand.

As I journeyed with the Youth down this cultural road I real-ized that I had learned so much. �e workshop providers, Elders, and the Ab Ed Workers taught me many things, but I think the youth taught me even more. Although at �rst I had reluctantly taken on this daunting adventure, looking back I couldn’t imagine having missed out on this wonderful cultural journey.

Dawna-LeaYouth Grant Coordinator 2008/09

49Whispering Winds Summer 200949Whispering Winds Summer 2009

MITTEN MAKING No-vember 27th & December 9th Two ‘mitten making work-shop’ were done, one in Inver-mere and one in Golden. �e idea for making mittens came about a�er our capote making workshop le� wool blanket remnants. In Invermere the day started with a Blackfoot prayer said by Sasha, one of the youth. I talked about the capote, the fur trade era, beads and the ’�ower beadwork people’ – us, the Metis. �e youth learnt two bead stitches as they launched themselves into the cre-ative process. Both workshops were enjoyed and well at-tended.

TALKING STICK January 14th Len Brunin from Canal Flats taught

this workshop on the ‘talking stick’. �e day started with a Metis prayer,

and then Len shared with the youth the importance of the

‘stick’ and the signi�cance of certain components used

in its’ making. �e youth creatively decorated their

talking sticks and at the end of the day were able to take

home a �nished product.

KNIFE SHEATH/POUCH MAKING Febru-a r y 26th & March 1st �is one day workshop on ‘knife sheath/ pouch making’ was presented in Invermere and Golden. We were honoured to have El-ders Yvette and Oliver Boyer attend the workshop in Inver-mere. Youth learnt the importance of bags and pouches to the 1st Nations, Metis, and Fur Trad-ers as clothing of the time peri-od was made with little regard to pockets. I had a variety of pouches and bags, with their appropriate contents, to share with the youth. �ere were also several examples of knife sheaths.�e youth decorated and made either a pouch or a knife sheath. �is was a very enjoyable workshop.

OUTDOOR SURVIVAL March 11th Rose Archibald, an outdoor enthusiast of Golden taught this workshop. In minus 23 degrees celsius weather the youth learned what supplies to take when heading into the back country, packing your backpack, proper clothing to wear, and shelter building. �ree separate shelters were constructed, includ-ing a quinzee (an Athapaskan snow shelter). Dressed in clothing depicting the late 1700’s Ryan Robison surprised the youth by appearing before lunch to share his-torical facts and the gi� of �re making with a �int and steel. �e ten youth that attended enjoyed the day despite the cold.

PINE NEEDLE BASKET MAKING March 31st �is workshop on ‘pine needle basket making’ was taught by Lillian Rose, a Ktunaxa Elder, in Invermere. A�er a Metis prayer the youth learned a little history on the use of baskets. A number of birch bark baskets were shown and discussed. �e youth were then taught to make a pine needle basket. By the end of a very enjoyable day most of the students le� with a �nished product in hand.

As I journeyed with the Youth down this cultural road I real-ized that I had learned so much. �e workshop providers, Elders, and the Ab Ed Workers taught me many things, but I think the youth taught me even more. Although at �rst I had reluctantly taken on this daunting adventure, looking back I couldn’t imagine having missed out on this wonderful cultural journey.

Dawna-LeaYouth Grant Coordinator 2008/09


STUDENT SUCCESSES

Alison Bowyer I would like to take the time to thank your organization for helping me with funding for my college education. I could not have done

it alone and I am very thankful for your generosity.

I have landed a great job at the YMCA and hopefully it will turn into a career for me. I love every minute of it. I am a Youth Worker, running lunch programs and after school programs for different schools within Chilliwack. Within the first 3-months of working with the YMCA I received a promotion to a “Team Leader” – in charge of one of the after school sites we have.

Things are going really well for me and big thank you to your organization and staff that have helped me achieve my goal to be successful and have fun with what I am doing.

Thank you for making a difference in my life!Sincerely,Alison Bowyer

Anja MineaultThank you for the support while I was training at Alpha Safety in Fort St John, BC. WMP Canada’s Level 3 first aid has given me the opportunity to work in the Oil and Gas industries. This work experience has shown me the career possibilities that oil and gas has to offer. I am currently working as a medic for Onsite Medical in Dawson Creek. I look forward to upgrading my qualifications. Thank you once again.

Todd Thomas Welder Northern Lights College-Dawson CreekI would like to thank MNBC for the funding to complete this training it had made me more employable and created more opportunity for me in my line of work.


Keeta GladueRisk CounselingOkanagan CollegeI’m finally finished, my finals are back and I can’t wait for summer, This last year has been amazing and I have learned so much. With the upgrading I did this year I have been officially accepted to the University of Victoria and I begin my Bachelors of Arts in the fall. I will be taking a double major of English and Biology, a strange combination but what I want to purse for sure. I have a glowing letter of reference from my English Professor. Dr. Kennedy as well as a letter of reference from the Aboriginal Access and Services Coordinator, Mr. Coble who has been my supervisor as I worked as a Peer Mentor in the Aboriginal Centre of Okanagan College. Both of these references will assist me in different ways as I go to university next year and apply for summer work.Thank you so much MNBC. Without your support and funding I would not be going to one of the best universities in Canada next fall ad I would not have had the amazing year that I have had. With your help I was able to meet other students from around the world, international students that came to study at Okanagan College, I was able to stay in the college residence which was a great experience for me and allowed me to interact more with other students, something I may not have done as much if left on my own, Thank you for your belief in me and all the many ways you helped me. I intend to succeed in my education with the skills I have learned this year, Once again thank you.With the funding that the Métis Nation has given me I have

I am very happy and excited to start my new career. Right now I am just taking off on this new journey and am enjoying my new full time job with the Mid Island Medical Clinic. Through High School there were many different careers I wanted to have but I kept changing my mind. When I finally decided I was going to school I didn’t really know how I was going to pay for it. When I signed up for a Legal and Administration Program I still did not know if I would be able to go to college. Through the Vancouver Island Métis Employment and Training office, I spoke with the Program Coordinator, Ms. Trish Parent many times and she was so helpful and then I applied for the assistance. I had back surgery for Scoliosis in February of 2006 and in May I received word that my funding was approved and that I would be able to start my course at the end of that month. What an amazing year I had. I learned so much, graduated with honours and now I have a full time job in a Medical office. It seems things can happen when you set your mind to do something. Thank you so much for funding me, I could not have made it without your support. Kayleigh Eldridge. Currently working full time at Mid Island Medical Clinic.

been able to open the doors of my future wide. I am entering into my third year of a challenging program at the University of Victoria while also working with the Salvation Army’s beacon of Hope house in a program that supports young men in their sobriety from both drugs and alcohol. I am proud to pursue my dreams to help create a better future for not only Métis youth but at risk youth of all races. Thank you.

Kayleigh Eldridge


Matthew DarathaNWCC / CPWEP with the MHRDA Northwest RegionThe CPWEP with the MHRDA Northwest Region helped me with my basic computer skill and communication in a professional atmosphere. It helped me organize and kept my life plans on track. I know use my skills I learned as a CPWEP in my schooling in the First Nations Fine Arts Program at the Northwest Community College. The professional and office skill will help me market myself as an artist.

Shaunna McLeodPsychologyBritish Columbia’s Children’s HospitalSuccessfully complete an Honors Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in psychology. This degree has been an essential first step for me as I am now completing my Masters degree in Counselling Psychology. The opportunity to receive post-secondary schooling has allowed me to not only receive the fundamental knowledge needed in my field but to gain employment working alongside many knowledgeable and dedicated professionals in the

field. I currently work at British Columbia’s Children’s Hospital (BCCH) in the area of pediatric neuropsychology. Together with pediatric neuropsychologists, I work one on one with children diagnosed with epilepsy and help in the provision of comprehensive childhood assessments. It is an absolute privilege to work with such amazing children and professionals and I look forward to furthering my education and work experiences in the future!

STUDENT SUCCESSES


REGIONAL NEWS

NORTH CARIBOO MÉTIS ASSOCIATIONTony Goulet, Kim Hodge, and I went to Kersley Elementary School to do a demonstration of Métis dancing and a workshop to teach jigging with some of the classes, in April. We also did a cultural presentation to classes at Kersley School.We held an essay contest in local schools in conjunction with

Northern Health, in April. The purpose of this contest was to have students write an essay on the dangers of smoking and how they could encourage someone they knew to quit smoking. The contest was open to Grades 4 and 5. Baylee Halliday, from Barlow Creek School, won first place and Patricia Sterling and Luke Legure, from Red Bluff Elementary, took second and third place.On May 15th we hosted an Aboriginal Health Fair. At press time we had 22 local service providers including some of the following agencies: Cancer Society, Kidney Foundation, Aboriginal diabetes, foot care, natural teas and remedies, mental health, gambling addictions, alcohol and drug addictions, the street nurse, and many more.

On May 23rd and 24th we held our annual flea market. This event helps us raise funds for the local.

June 4-7, we will be holding a Circle of Families Camp at Gavin Lake, B.C. This four day camp is to focus on bringing families together and helping them learn to communicate with each other while learning some traditional Métis activities. Bev Lambert will be doing some jigging and we’ll have axe throwing, archery, canoeing, as well as some crafts. The camp is full for this year and we have a waiting list. August 21-23, we are planning a joint picnic with the Cariboo Chilcotin Métis Association. This picnic is to be held at Gavin Lake and everyone is welcome to attend. There will be games, entertainment, food, and much more. So, if you would like to come and want a cabin you need to let either North Cariboo Métis or Cariboo Chilcotin Métis know as soon as possible as cabin space is limited. Camp is located right by the lake so there is plenty of fishing, swimming, and canoeing.

Cariboo Chilcotin Métis Association will be holding a monthly bingo beginning in June at the old bingo hall in Quesnel. North Cariboo Métis currently hold two bingos a month, the second and last Friday of each month. This provides our Métis communities with some much needed local funding.

MEMBERS OF CHILLIWACK MÉTIS ASSOCIATION Tansi: presented the Honourable Chuck Strahl, PC, MP, Minister of Indian Affairs and North-ern Development Canada and Interlocutor for Métis and Non-status Indians, with signed copies of the book “The Métis”, written by George and Terry Goulet, on Mar. 18 in Chilliwack. Shown at the presentation are MP Chuck Strahl, Elder and President Les Mitchell, Elder Grace Pearson. A copy of the book will also be put in every school library in the Chilliwack School District courtesy of Chilliwack Métis Association. Marc ColmanChilliwack Métis [email protected]

Chad Bealeau stands by his crafts MP Chuck Strahl, Elder and President Les Mitchel and Elder Grace Pearson


NORTH CENTRAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR(MNBC)by Annette Maurice, Ministry Responsible for Justice(MNBC)The Fort St. James “Sharing our Gifts: A celebration of di-versity” truly was a grand celebration. I travelled to Fort St. James with Rose Bortolon on May 1st to participate. It was really nice to see a good representation from MNBC. Cul-tural Minister Rene Therrien was there accompanied by his wife Anni and daughter Christine Therrien-Ratusniak from Terrace. Minister Therrien played his fiddle to the happy jiggers from Prince George. These were the grandchildren of Doreen Spence and our Region 5 women’s representative Shaina Mc-Callum’s daughters. The jigging brought on much clapping and enthusiasm from the crowd. Good job with the music Minister Therrien. Region 5 Senator Bill Thibeault from Vanderhoof was also present. Thank you president Allan Howell from New Caledonia Mé-tis Association and Fort. St James College of New Caledonia for the invitation. It was a proud day for Fort St. James to lis-ten to the speakers, Hereditary Chief Peter Erikson, Elders, and other community representatives from the College of New Caledonia. They now have their own college. Way to go!! It was a sunny and a beautiful drive to be a part of this celebration.

TRI-RIVER MÉTIS ASSOCIATION CORE course in Smithers, a great success! by Kim Hodgson

A Conservation Outdoor Recreation Education (CORE) course was held by Tri-River Métis Association March 14-17 in Smithers. We had 11 participants, eight who were youth sponsored by Tri-River Métis Association and local busi-nesses and organizations.

The event was coordinated by our BCMANR officer, George Ewald, and the instructor was Frank McDonald of Hungry Hill Adventures. Participants were enthusiastic and enjoyed the course very much. We will be following up this course with some traditional harvesting and processing of game this fall for those who are interested. Thank you to the following sponsors for their generous sup-port: Bernie’s Kustom Autobody, Smithers Steelheads Hock-ey Team, Schippers Creek Contracting, White River Heli-copters, Houston Wild Game Society.One of our young participants, 12 year old Savanna Martin, wrote this thank you letter: “Thank you very much for spon-soring me to take the CORE course. I had a lot of fun and met a lot of people. I also learned a lot and I can’t wait ’til this hunt-ing season to go hunting with my Mom and Dad. Hopefully you can do this next year for other Métis kids.”

REGIONAL NEWS

VETERANS

April 24 I attended Radar Hill Kapyong Ceremony along with 4 other Métis Veterans from Region 1. It was nice of them to show. Kapyong is 1st battle Canadians took part in. They were fighting hand to hand with Chinese and North Korean soldier. There were 10 Canadians killed and 33 Canadians wounded.

Art Lefever CD


JAFF_WW_8o75x11o25_flat.psd


Southern Vancouver Island is a beautiful place to live. Within 15 minutes either way one can be picking up starfish in the tidewaters, looking down from a mountain, or picking wild berries and fishing in a cool grass-lined stream.

Each of Tom’s days off as maintenance worker with B.C. Forestry is spent out of doors, whether we are exploring the outlying areas or cultivating our yard. Tom does love his roses. Someday we will return to Ucluelet and Tom - whose tenor voice is still strong and true - will serenade me once again.

The ‘80s have taken their toll on the Ladoucer/Pocha family. Last spring my poor sister Joan Arrance - who had lived as a veritable skeleton for ages, was finally taken by cancer. Not long afterwards my mother, Louise Arcand (Ladoucer/Pocha), succumbed. I was fortunate to be there to hold the hands of both of them as they passed.And now, sadly, while I was away sitting my grandchildren, my beloved Tom went to his final reward … alone.

My girl, Leanne, found him.“My God Mom, he’s only 63!” her shocked voice rang.

She has been my right hand throughout. But, I must confess, I am growing very weary of losing those that I love. I feel very lost in this new age.

It has been decided that I will live with Leanne’s family. I am glad for both the comfort and the companionship.

Garth, now 15, has taken me to several dances; he loves the old time waltzes and jigs. I love teaching him and his sister, Ara, Michif words. We spend hours storytelling. I tell them of the trek our people made from New France to the Red River Valley, to Duck Lake and Batoche in Saskatchewan. I tell them of all the lives lost and all the trials and battles won along the way. The children listen intently, asking questions occasionally, presenting their ideas of how things should have or could have been. I feel assured that they will store this information to pass on to their children.

Garth and Leanne have enrolled in the Theatre Arts Program at Malaspina University this fall: Garth as an actor and Leanne as a costume person. This seems to suit Garth’s personality well, and it gives Leanne a way with which to express her interest in garments of the past, particularly Métis clothing.

The year 2000 has arrived. My God, where have the years gone? I look into the mirror and see a tiny, grey-haired woman with watery, charcoal eyes and worry lines. My children are all grown and gone, as are the grandchildren. Now the great-grandchildren smile and nod and wonder who this old woman is and why she seems to know them. Most of my friends have died and most of my relatives have moved into other towns and provinces. I phone or write and they

(Continued from Whispering Winds Winter 2008 Edition)

A CANADIAN LEGENDChapter 12, by Leanne Laberge

57

send letters and photos. I compile a family tree that helps me to recall who belongs to whom. I pray the stories have not been forsaken, but I fear they have been.

This family tree has many branches, some bent and withered, some strong and green. The branches that reach into our past are prominent; twigs filled with our life’s blood, red and white corpuscles dancing in time. The leaves shine silver and vibrant in today’s stark light.

As I draw near the end of what is my allotted time - without my Tom to serenade me - I am visited nightly by both Kookum and Moshoom. They smile at my young and foolish self.

I am not afraid to move into the next dream for I know that my girl will hold my hand and look into my eyes until I reach my Kookum’s arms.

Leona died June 10th. 2003. Her daughter Leanne and granddaughter Ara were with her.

“The story ends but the legend lives on forever” Watch for Leanne’s book – “A Canadian Legend and Other Tales” written by Leanne,

published by Kiwetin Marketing & Publishing Ltd, Winter 2010



My name is Kevin

Mercier, I am Metis and originate from a community in northern Alberta. I have spent the majority of my life within

the prison system and have been released now for over a year and fortunate to have the support of the Metis Nation British Columbia. They have assisted me with entering into a 3-month Heavy Equipment Operator training program between a partnership with VanAsep and CLAC, which I am presently in. I have always wanted to become a HEO and my father was also a HEO. I am very grateful for the opportunity provided to me by the MNBC and the support and encouragement I’ve received during my training.

JUSTICE

I am a 36 yr. old federal offender,

serving a life sentence. I attended the Métis Skills and Employment Center in Abbotsford taking the

C.O.R.E. (Construction and Orientation for Employment and Retention) program, as well as the first level carpentry course. With the assistance of the MSEC, not only did I obtain skill and safety certification, I also obtained a positive attitude and interpersonal skills, both of which are very helpful in assisting me in having a successful reintegration opportunity into the community. I give great thanks to all the staff at the MSEC who has made it possible for me to attend these courses.

MHRDA

Green careers have surfaced as a major area of importance for people steering toward new careers. Overall, they are expected to be one of the fastest-

growing employment categories in the years ahead, as Canada undergoes major changes in the way we produce and consume energy. A prediction says that North America could add as many as 4.2 million green jobs in the coming two decades. Stimulating green businesses is also part of the stimulus act including millions to encourage energy efficiency and renewable energy and this shows a great need in targeting green job training. If you have specific skills, it’s an appealing job market, with fast growth in fields like solar energy and other renewable energy sources that need people with trade and technical skills. But professionals without specific environmental job backgrounds - such as architects and project managers - also have skills that can be transferred with some retraining.

Most of the jobs of a technical nature can take people without direct environmental experience and then retrain them. Additionally a strong demand for non-technical

people coming from outside the environmental field is needed. Every business needs accounting, human resources and marketing people. The market is very new, so very few come with direct experience at green companies. The most important thing is to have a track record of performance and skills than can shift to an environmental business. If you don’t have direct knowledge in green business, consider getting training or certification. Many certification programs leading to a credential as a green building specialist are starting to be made available at colleges. Another good way to get started is networking. There’s an abundance of green conferences around that can be found with a simple web search; there are several very educational discussion groups on green industry.

With the current economic situation in Canada and this switch towards green technology it may be the time to make a leap into a new career. Research this new world and get started today, contact your MNBC Employment & Training program coordinator in your region to start the training and go green.

Need a Career? Go Green.

GDS08-257

bchydro.com/careers

Jeannie Cranmer

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Summer 2009

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Transcript of Summer 2009