Photo by Greg Plain.

Six Nations talks resume

CALEDONIA - Native and government representatives are expected to be back at the negotiation table today after getting the green light from the Ontario Court of Appeal. The talks went into limbo after Superior Court Justice David Marshall issued a judgment Aug. 8 stating the government should not go back to the table until protesters are removed from the Douglas Creek Estates in Caledonia.
In the judgment, Marshall also suggested that removing the protesters, who have been on the 40-hectare tract since Feb. 28, would help restore the rule of law in the protracted land dispute.
Yesterday, Ontario Chief Justice Dennis O'Connor ruled there was nothing in Marshall's final order, which was only issued last Friday, to prevent native and government representatives from resuming talks.
As head of a three-judge panel, O'Connor said negotiators could go back to the table today without fear of breaching a court order.
A lawyer with the Attorney General said there were talks scheduled for today and negotiators were anxious to hit the ground running. Other government lawyers said a "cloud" had been hanging over the status of the talks since Marshall's judgment.

"Greater venom" at Ipperwash Inquiry

MR. PETER ROSENTHAL: “Is it conceivable, Mr. Commissioner, that John Carson would still have allowed those officers to march on these people at eleven o’clock at night if that had been the political message he had received?”

“Sorry, I just got stung by something.”

“It’s not just a fly.  It was—excuse me.  All right, it was a very big fly.”

COMMISSIONER SIDNEY LINDEN:   “A very big fly.”

MR. PETER ROSENTHAL:   “The OPP has agents everywhere.”

COMMISSIONER SIDNEY LINDEN:   “Do you want to have a moment?  Do you want to take a...”

MR. PETER ROSENTHAL:   “It’s actually a sting of some kind.  No, it’s okay.  It’ll inspire me to greater venom.”

“But I did interrupt myself at a rather crucial point and so may I reiterate that...”

What makes a great Pow-Wow?

ALGONQUIN PARK – What makes a good pow-wow? Great weather. Lots of good food. Hospitality. Good singing and dancing. It isn’t really about the numbers, although it is good to have hundreds of dancers in beautiful regalia, and dozens of drums given their best. Most importantly, I feel it’s about having lots of friends and a great organization.
I attended the Algonquin Park Annual Pow-Wow for the second straight year at beautiful Centennial Ridges. These beautiful bluffs look out over the Lake of Two Rivers, home of the Algonquin people and traditional territory of the Anishinaabe. This is a spectacular backdrop for the pow-wow and for some great camping.Once again, I was really impressed and happy to be there. This pow-wow isn’t put on by seasoned vets of the pow-wow trail. It’s put on by highly motivated, hard working people each and every year. They strive to make everyone happy and comfortable. They work to uphold our traditions by holding teaching and sharing circles every morning.I was happy to be the MC at the gathering this weekend. There was only three drums and about 20 dancers or so – but that didn’t matter. We all felt the good feeling at this little pow-wow. There were many visitors, tourists and almost all stayed the whole day, either Saturday and Sunday. It was an excellent time.I was pleased that Lisa-Marie and Stan Taylor honoured the organizers with a special giveaway on Sunday afternoon. The couple presented Lisa Boldt with an eagle fan and Michael Boldt with an eagle whistle for their appreciation. Congratulations Lisa and Mike, these honours are well deserved.
I also enjoyed the two hoop dance specials to raise money for neutro-fibromatosis. First-time hoop dancer Penny showed us all the teaching of bravery not only by dancing with over twenty hoops, but in sharing her book called “I am NF”. Penny’s book features revealing photos of her, illustrating not just her disorder, but her courage and outward personality.Neurofibromatosis (NF) is a genetic disorder of the nervous system which causes tumors to form on the nerves anywhere in the body at any time. NF is one of the most common genetic disorders affecting one in every 3,000 to 4,000 births.
 
For more information on Neurofibromatosis, visit:

http://www.nfon.ca/ 
http://www.nfinc.org/ 

Cancun, Mexico 2006

Myself, April and Alana at Chichen Itza, one of the most important archeological sites in the Americas. This photo is taken at the Monastery, or Las Monjas, a place where all the great masters resided. Photo By Katherine Faith.

Katherine Faith and Alana touch a piece of history at the Pyramid of Kukulcan. Photo by Bob.

The Pyramid of Kukalcan was build by the Mayans almost 2000 years ago. It is build in perfect symmetry with the cosmos. The Mayans studied and understood the sky with greater accuracy than their contemporaries in Europe. The building of the Temple is so exact, that at the Spring and Fall Equinox, an illusion appears (cast by light and shadow). Combined with the effigy of a snakes head at the bottom of the great staircases, it gives the appearance of a serpent falling from the sky and slithering down the staircase. There are 91 steps to the top. Photo By April.

 The girls enjoyed the pool at the resort as well as the swim up bar. Photo by April.

Snorkelling is my favorite holiday past-time. April, Katherine Faith and Alana enjoyed their first time snorkeling on the Mayan Reef at Xel-Ha – the world’s largest open-air aquarium. Photo by Bob.

Underwater Photography by Bob Goulais.

Watch out below. Bob swinging into the Mayan caverns. Photo by April.

… on vacation 

LONDON, ON – Boozhoo… greetings everyone. I apologize for not posting anything new on my Blog in over a month! I’ve been on vacation. Spending time with my Princess, Katherine Faith, my sweetheart April and her daughter Alana. 
We’ve been having a blast, at the same time I’m also needing the rest to recover from a pretty serious abdominal infection. I spent three nights in the hospital at the end of July. Was on intravenous anti-biotics for the entire time and had to have an abscess removed. It was potentially very serious if I had complications, being diabetic, and all. However, my blood sugars are well under control. Eating well and getting some exercise.
Yesterday, we returned from a week in Cancun and the Mayan Riviera of Mexico. It was great for recuperation. The salt water is actually good for my wound/incision and there was a lot of time for rest, sleep and good food.
We spent some time at Xel-Ha, one of the largest open-water aquariums in the world. We all enjoyed a full day of snorkeling the Mayan Reef and the caves within the park.
We also got to spend a day at Chichen Itza, site of 1000 year old Mayan ruins and the great Temple of Kukaclan. This pyramid and amazing Mayan city was awe-inspiring and spectacular.
I’ve missed quite a bit of the current events and haven’t been accessible to my e-mail, cell phone or even television news.

• OPP Commissioner Gwen Boniface is retiring from the OPP and moving on to a post in Ireland. Best of luck Gwen.
  
• Former UOI President and Ontario Regional Chief and Elder Fred Plain passed away.  Fred was a great leader, orator and a fellow Midewiwin from the Three Fires Lodge. We will miss you Fred. My sympathies to Mike and the rest of the Plain Family.
  
• Chief Marianna Couchie was elected to lead my community of Nipissing First Nation on July 9th, 2006. My good friend Aandozed, Perry McLeod-Shabogesic was elected to Council, along with Meriza George (Deputy Chief), June Commanda, Rick Stevens, Mike Restoule, Doug Chevrier, and Darryl McLeod. Congratulations everyone.
  
• Finally, my Guestbook was been disabled (thanks Ray and Chuck). There has been a lot of spam posted by spambots and it’s become a royal pain. I’ll come up with a better system to get away from the spammers.

First Nations support OPP Commissioner

VANCOUVER, BC (July 12, 2006) – First Nations in Ontario are rejecting arguments that favour a confrontational and violent means of dealing with Native demonstrations and civil disobedience at Caledonia, and that the tact chosen by OPP top brass should be considered shameful. "We applaud Commissioner Boniface's courageous and diplomatic approach. She has the utmost confidence and support of First Nations leadership," said Grand Council Chief Beaucage, leader of the 42-member First Nations of the Anishinabek Nation. “It is evident that the OPP have learned from their past mistakes and Commissioner Boniface wants to ensure those mistakes are not repeated.” Beaucage was speaking from the annual general meeting of the Assembly of First Nations in Vancouver. Chiefs attending the Assembly have expressed concern over criticism of Ontario Provincial Police Commissioner Gwen Boniface’s handling of the Caledonia situation and suggestion that she should resign. "The Ontario Provincial Police are acting as true 'peace officers' in their role at Caledonia. There is great honour in restraint and making good decisions," said Grand Council Chief Beaucage. “Being a peacekeeper shouldn't be considered by anyone to be shameful, a sign of weakness or supporting lawlessness.” "There is a certain, small element of society that would advocate police violence, confrontation and ignorance of First Nations land rights rather than the chosen approach of the government and the police, said Grand Council Chief John Beaucage. "We have all seen the tragic results of this approach, most recently at Ipperwash in 1995." 
"Negotiation and level-headedness is the only way to resolve these types of sensitive flashpoints to avoid unnecessary violence," concluded Beaucage. 
The Anishinabek Nation incorporated the Union of Ontario Indians (UOI) as its secretariat in 1949. The UOI is a political advocate for 42-member First Nations across Ontario . The Union of Ontario Indians is the oldest political organization in Ontario and can trace its roots back to the Confederacy of Three Fires, which existed long before European contact.

July 11/06

Assembly of First Nations General Meeting

Vancouver, BC.  Day 1

Arrived in a Vancouver a little late for the annual general meeting of the Assembly of First Nations.  My original flight from North Bay, yesterday at 3:25 was cancelled as was the next flight out at 8:30 p.m.  Apparently thunderstorms and tornado warnings closed Lester B. Pearson International Airport in Toronto yesterday afternoon and early evening.  I'm just glad I didn't get stuck in Toronto.  Left at 6:10 this morning and landed in Vancouver at 10:30'ish.
Upon arrival at the Vancouver Convention Centre, I quickly went to work to set up a Union of Ontario Indians' caucus that will take place tonight at 6:30 p.m. local time.  I spoke with both National Chief's candidates to ensure they would attend our briefing meeting.  Also re-acquainted myself with Larry Sault who is working for Bill Wilson's campaign.  Allen Luby and Marsha Smoke were taking the reigns of Fontaine's campaign.
As I am writing, the debate between Bill Wilson (BC) and Phil Fontaine (MA) is heating up.  Wilson gave a very strong speech that will distance his more hardline, treaty-based approached from the more conciliatory incumbent.  Of course, Fontaine bestowed the virtues of his solutions-based approach and the successes he has obtained in the past term.  Fontaine, the most eloquent speaker of the two, used his twenty minutes to maintain his support base.  Wilson attempted to go for the throat with assertions that these negotiated approaches of Fontaine is treachery.  Most delegates missed his dig.
Finishing a news release supporting Commissioner Gwen Boniface.  The embattled OPP boss is being targeted by the Caledonia Citizens Coalition and some others within her ranks.  They feel she should resign and the OPP should be more forceful.  First Nations leadership disagree with this Harris-like approach.  The news release will go our tomorrow morning.

July 7/06

Anishinabek/Ontario agreement pledges 
cooperation on Natural Resource issues

NIPISSING FIRST NATION — Anishinabek Nation leaders and Ontario’s Ministry of Natural Resources have created a joint process to resolve issues of concern related to natural resource management.
A Letter of Intent outlining the process was signed today by Grand Council Chief John Beaucage, on behalf of 42 Anishinabek Nation communities, and Minister of Natural Resources David Ramsay.
"We are pleased this Ontario government understands the importance of working with First Nations on natural resource issues, which represent the link between our historic treaties and our future economic prosperity," said Beaucage. "Since we first discussed this process, Minister Ramsay has endorsed co-operative and respectful dialogue when dealing with issues involving First Nation jurisdiction and aboriginal and treaty rights."
"I am pleased to join Grand Chief Beaucage in signing this agreement, which will help address Anishinabek Nation concerns about natural resource issues," said Ramsay. "By working together cooperatively, we can move forward on common priorities and seek mutually agreeable solutions."
The process envisages a "solutions-based approach" that would revitalize the Anishinabek/Ontario Resource Management Council process that was established six years ago. The Council has a mandate to finalize a work plan within 120 days to begin addressing six priority issues: harvesting, the Great Lakes Charter Annex, resource benefit-sharing, incidental cabins, a forestry framework and enforcement.
The signing took place at the first annual Anishinabek/Ontario Leadership Forum, which brought together the four Anishinabek Regional Chiefs, as well as Elders, Women, and Youth council members, and senior staff of the Ministry of Natural Resources.
Under the agreement, an annual Leadership Forum would be held to monitor Resource Management Council progress and identify new priorities from emerging natural resource issues.
The Anishinabek Nation incorporated the Union of Ontario Indians (UOI) as its secretariat in 1949. The UOI is a political advocate for 42-member First Nations across Ontario . The Union of Ontario Indians is the oldest political organization in Ontario and can trace its roots back to the Confederacy of Three Fires, which existed long before European contact.

Media Enquiries

Barry Radford
Communications Services Branch
416-314-2103

Bob Goulais
Anishinabek Nation
info@anishinabek.ca
705-497-9127 / 705-498-5250 (Cell)

July 6/06

Zaagigan

Beyond the treetops of leaves so green
Below the turquoise expanse of clear sky
Before the misty, rolling shoreline of a far away bay
Lies the Lake, Zaagigan.

Her waters so blue, so dark
A foreboding expanse from east to west
In constant motion
Her movement is a fluid dance.

She’s called Zaagigan for a reason
Her story is a subtle thought, almost lost in time

Nini, the Anishinaabe hunter’s quest
not for greatness or sport, but for Love
To feed his young family, their seed
and a Love so cherished that it’s still felt today.

Kwe – so fair, yet so dark, with unending braids of strength
Her slender figure embraces a deerskin dress
She sees her lover off from the sandy shore
The water: sacred, reflective, respected and wise.

Nini – his heart, true with respect
Offers tobacco for what he has taken
He embarks home with his burden of game
pulling down on the birch bark canoe
with every weary stroke of his paddle.

She sees him, he is so close
So close to the shore, his lover awaits
As thunderbirds glide in from the west
well above the darkness seen from down below

She sees him, he is so close
But the storm churns up the Spirit underneath
It forms an apparition of a deadly Serpent
Spewing and spraying the helpless man
As he fights the weight of his game
and the power of these spiritual forces 

But it is not meant to be
Nini, canoe, game and all
Swallowed whole in the savage undercurrent
The Serpent bears its head no more 

Panicked, shock-stricken, sobbing, wailing
Teeth-clenched in a fitful rage
Her shock turns to despair –
Her despair turns to Love

Kwe, steps off the sandy shore
Hikes up her rain-soiled deerskin dress
Wades in, with cries of pain and sorrow. 

Step by step, she cannot be called back
Her family, aunties and uncles beg her to return
She wades into the depths of the Lake
With haunting cries of Love 

“Zaagaa’in, Zaagaa’in.”
“I Love You.  I Love You.”
Kwe cries to her Nini. 

“Zaagaa’in, Zaagaa’in”
“I Love You.  I Love You.”
She cries to Creation in mournful song.

 Of one so fair, and a Love so fair.
Finally, Kwe herself, is taken by the Serpent
Below the depths of anguish
Where she may feel no more
Spirits taken to where they are joined forever

Zaagaa’in – our word for Love
Zaagigan – our word for Lake
In memory, not of a Love no more
But of a Love so cherished
that it’s still felt today.
Of one so fair, and a Love so fair.

June 30/06

Boozhoo niijiisaanik (Greetings my friends):

I know it's been said here before, and it's starting to sound quite cliché, however it's been a very busy few weeks.  Beginning in late May, Indian country becomes filled with various political meetings, annual general assemblies and the usual flurry of activity that precedes the eventual summer holidays.
Most of you who know me, and even my regular readers know my affinity for research, statistics and assessment.  Here is one of the most interesting facts of the past month:

Number of Kilometres put on a single rental car:  May 26 - June 25, 8744 kms
Memorable Moment:  Dinner at the Signature Room, 95th floor of the John Hancock Building, Chicago, IL.

This week was a very interesting week.  I attended the All-Ontario Chiefs Conference in Kitchinmaygoosib Inniniwug, Big Trout Lake in the far north of Ontario.  Let the truth be known that I opposed having the assembly in such a remote location.  I went kicking and screaming.  No hotel, no cell phone, not internet, and not really much to do (so I thought).  However my experience in Big Trout Lake has changed my perception of our remote, isolated First Nations, and by the end of the week I was really enjoying myself and was sad to go home.  Thanks to Noah Chapman Jr. for the accommodations, the Lac Seul Singers for the chance to sing.
The highlight of the week for me was the opportunity to MC and sing at an impromtu drum social.  Apparently it was the first time the drum has ever been sounded in Big Trout Lake in that way.  After a slow start, we had the whole community dancing and abuzz for their culture as Anishinabe people.  Young children were coming up to the singers, asking us questions, displaying a genuine interest in what was taking place.

July 28/06

Beaucage acclaimed as Grand Council Chief

The Parry Sound North Star

PARRY SOUND – Former Wasauksing First Nation Chief John Beaucage was acclaimed as the Anishinabek Nation grand Council Chief earlier this month, for a second term.
"I think it is time to be ambitious in our goals; that we have to be ambitious because we can’t always rely on the provincial and federal governments to carry us. We have to do the job ourselves," said Mr. Beaucage.
One of the issues Mr. Beaucage rededicated himself to is the eradication of poverty, both cultural and financial, within the Anishinabek Nation.
The first steps of which have already been taken to fulfill this goal.
"The Anishinabek already dedicated, as of last week, the anishnabemowin (Ojibwa) language as our official language," said Mr. Beaucage.
“So we are undertaking a program that will have language immersion for the people in the office and political people and will work to have the laws in place to make it the official language and alter our education system."
The goal is to have anishnabemowin the language of choice in schools and work places within 10 years. Out of 50,000 Anishinabek members he said about 20 per cent speak anishnabemowin at this time.
Also on his agenda is the community taking control of its own children’s aid, by creating an Anishinabek Children’s Aid Society and becoming a provincially recognized service provider. This project, he said, is about two years away from being fully realized.
The Anishinabek Nation includes 42 communities and spans from Thunder Bay, in the north, to Sarnia, in the south, and to the Ottawa Valley, in the east.

June 26/06

New Deputy Grand Chief Glen Hare and re-elected Grand Council Chief John Beaucage at their first photo opportunity at the Grand Council assembly held in Sand Point First Nation on June 13, 2006.  Greg Plain Photo

June 20/06

Anishinabek create official language policy

NIPISSING FIRST NATION – (CCNMatthews - June 20, 2006) - Chiefs of the 42 member communities of the Anishinabek Nation have unanimously created an official language policy.
During their June 12-14 annual Grand Council Assembly, the Chiefs endorsed a resolution declaring that the official language of the Anishinabek Nation is Anishinaabe-mowin, or the Ojibwe language.
"This is a historic decision for our First Nations, and a significant step in coming out from under colonial rule and restoring our own Nationhood," said John Beaucage, who was acclaimed by the Chiefs to serve another term as their Grand Council Chief. The Grand Council Assembly serves as a traditional annual gathering for member communities of the Anishinabek Nation, as well as the annual general meeting of the Union of Ontario Indians Inc.
"Our language is sacred, and protecting and restoring it is a priority for our Chiefs," said Beaucage. "It is the vision of this official language policy that our people will once again think in Anishinaabe-mowin by ensuring that Ojibwe is once again the language of our ceremonies, our gatherings, and our working life."
The official language policy is in step with the Anishinabek Nation's unanimous support for the establishment of the Anishinaabe-Mushkegowuk-Onkwehonwe Language Commission that will support the language development needs of all First Nations in Ontario. Outgoing Deputy Grand Chief Nelson Toulouse, who did not seek re-election, was officially appointed as Commissioner to this new body that was modeled after the Maori language commission in New Zealand.
The resolution states that "the Anishinabek Chiefs-in-Assembly hereby declare that Anishinaabe-mowin, shall herein and forever, be the official language of the Anishinabek Nation… and "hereby acknowledge that English is the language of the Crown and is a working language of our people".
The official language policy also adopts immersion programs as the preferred method of instruction in Anishinabek Nation schools.
"Ojibwe as a second language or conventional Ojibwe language instruction shall be phased out in favour of immersion and fluency programs for school-aged children," said Grand Council Chief Beaucage.
The resolution also calls for the establishment of workplace immersion programs and learning opportunities for First Nation employees.
The resolution commits the Chiefs-in-Assembly to encourage and support "opportunities for learning, and that each member of the Anishinabek Nation civil service shall be granted two weeks of language development leave and/or workplace language immersion programming."
Anishinabek Nation Headquarters on Nipissing First Nation will implement the workplace language programming this summer. Satellite offices located in Thunder Bay, Curve Lake and Muncey-Deleware will follow suit soon after.
The 42 member First Nations will mandate and regulate the official language policy through their respect Band Councils, Agencies, Boards and Commissions by the year 2010.
The Anishinabek Nation incorporated the Union of Ontario Indians as its secretariat in 1949. The UOI is a political advocate for 42 member First Nations across Ontario.

June 22/06

Anishinabek First Nations to be smoke-free

NIPISSING FIRST NATION – (CCNMatthews - June 20, 2006) - Chiefs of the Anishinabek Nation have committed to making their 42 communities smoke-free environments.
During their June 12-14 annual Grand Council Assembly, Anishinabek Chiefs adopted a set of guidelines to phase in no-smoking policies over the next few years.
"I have envisioned a smoke-free Anishinabek Nation. I am happy to say that this decision by our Chiefs brings us one step closer to that reality," said John Beaucage, who was re-elected as Grand Council Chief of the 42-member Anishinabek Nation. "We are doing this for the health and well-being of our children and our communities.
"Tobacco was given to us as a gift from the Creator to be used in healing, ceremony and prayer. This will be foremost in our minds," added Beaucage.
The Grand Council Chief has been appointed to the Minister of Health Promotion's Smoke-free Ontario Campaign Committee, and has worked to create an understanding of traditional tobacco uses, cancer and cancer care, jurisdictional issues and First Nations self-regulation.
Anishinabek Chiefs-in-Assembly endorsed a resolution to "…encourage the development and promote the use of Anishinabek tobacco laws and regulations that are respectful of our traditional uses of tobacco, seek to ameliorate youth tobacco misuse, and regulate smoking in First Nations public buildings and areas…"
Chiefs chose to adopt their own by-laws and regulations to implement this policy, while at the same time rejecting the imposition of the Smoke-Free Ontario Act on their communities. First Nations maintain that provincial laws do not apply on federal reserve lands. Their resolution specified that no-smoking policies would represent "…our own measures decided upon by our First Nations and through subsequent by-laws and regulations appropriate to our needs in each of our respective First Nations".
A workplan will be developed by the Union of Ontario Indians by the Fall of 2006 with a target of seeing the first member community entirely smoke-free by early 2007.
The Anishinabek Nation incorporated the Union of Ontario Indians as its secretariat in 1949. The UOI is a political advocate for 42 member First Nations across Ontario. The UOI is the oldest political organization in Ontario and can trace its roots back to the Confederacy of Three Fires, which existed long before European contact.

June 22/06

Natives threaten additional land occupations

CALEDONIA – (June 8, 2006) There could soon be more situations like Caledonia.
Ontario's First Nations bands are threatening the federal and provincial governments with more occupations if aboriginal land claims aren't settled soon.
The 100 chiefs have pledged their support to Caledonia protesters, with Grand Council Chief John Beaucage saying the bands will come to each other's aid.
The 100 Chiefs were bused in to Douglas Creek Estates on the eve of the occupation's 100th day.
"We are all one nation across this country," said Grand Council Chief John Beaucage, who represents 43 First Nations across the province.
He represents 43 First Nations across Ontario.
Other chiefs say they might resort to tactics like the Caledonia occupation to get the government's attention.

June 19/06

Beaucage acclaimed as Grand Council Chief

SAND POINT (June 13, 2006) – With resounding applause and ovation from participating Chiefs, Elders, Youth and Women, John Beaucage was unanimously acclaimed as the leader of the Anishinabek Nation to ascend to the office of Grand Council Chief.
"I am very pleased and grateful for the overwhelming support of the leadership in endorsing my solutions-based agenda and allowing me to continue as Grand Council Chief," said Beaucage who will serve a three-year term.  "This new mandate ensures the Anishinabek Nation will play a strong leadership role in addressing health needs, social issues, poverty and housing."
At the annual Grand Council of the Anishinabek at Sand Point First Nation, John Beaucage was acclaimed as Grand Council Chief following nominations yesterday.  Earlier today, the Chiefs-in-Assembly also elected Glen Hare as Deputy Grand Chief in a traditional standing vote.
As incumbent Grand Council Chief, Beaucage ran on a revolutionary campaign that included the May 17th release of a historic "Political Manifesto", which is gaining significant interest among First Nations across Canada.  This document includes such concepts as advancing traditional government, eliminating the Indian Act in 10 years, eliminating First Nations poverty in 20 years and declaring Ojibway the official language of the Anishinabek Nation.
Beaucage was first elected as Grand Council Chief in a by-election in October 2004.  He is the former Chief of Wasauksing First Nation and Board member of the Union of Ontario Indians.  An economist by education, Beaucage also worked over 25 years in the Canadian civil service.
The Chiefs-in-Assembly elected Glen Hare as the new Deputy Grand Chief of the Anishinabek Nation.  Hare is the former Regional Grand Chief of the Robinson Huron region and former Chief of M'Chigeeng First Nation.  Hare is a strong advocate for social and child welfare issues as well as hunting and fishing rights.  "I appreciate the opportunity to contribute in a meaningful way in addressing the issues facing our First Nations," said Deputy Grand Chief Hare.  "I look forward to working with Grand Council Chief Beaucage and the Union of Ontario Indians in advancing the vision of the Anishinabek Nation."
Hare will also serve a three-year term.
The Anishinabek Nation incorporated the Union of Ontario Indians as its secretariat in 1949. The UOI is a political advocate for 42 member First Nations across Ontario. The UOI is the oldest political organization in Ontario and can trace its roots back to the Confederacy of Three Fires, which existed long before European contact. 

May 26/06

Native reconciliation within reach: Leader

NIPISSING FIRST NATION – Today, the Anishinabek Nation and its 43 member First Nations are celebrating the National Day of Healing and Reconciliation with a "new found optimism for true reconciliation with Canada."
"By marking the National Day of Healing and Reconciliation, we can step forward and renew our commitment to wellness as individuals and as a Nation," said Grand Council Chief John Beaucage, leader of the Anishinabek Nation. "As the health of our Nation strengthens, so does our Nation as a whole."
Grand Council Chief Beaucage is optimistic that true reconciliation between Canada's First Peoples and mainstream society is within reach. He points to the establishment of a truth and reconciliation commission under Canada's recent residential school settlement as a means toward mutual understanding.
"I look forward to the establishment of a truth and reconciliation commission to examine and document the long and difficult journey of our residential school survivors," said Grand Council Chief Beaucage. "Very soon Canadians will be able to learn more about this tragedy in Canada's history and truly gain a better understanding of the profound effects that this has had on our society and culture."
Beaucage cites the current unrest in the different parts of the country as effects left over from residential schools as well as colonialism of the 20th century.
Grand Council Chief Beaucage provides greetings and best wishes to all those communities celebrating the National Day of Healing and Reconciliation across Anishinabek Nation territory and across Canada.
The National Day of Healing and Reconciliation is a movement of people committed to moving forward collectively within our families, communities and across Canada for the purposes of healing and reconciliation. The National Day is celebrated on May 26th of each year.
It is a primary objective of the National Day to educate all Canadians about our collective history of government policies which impacted Aboriginal communities including Canada's tragic and evil residential school policy.
The Anishinabek Nation incorporated the Union of Ontario Indians as its secretariat in 1949. The UOI is a political advocate for 43 member First Nations across Ontario. The UOI is the oldest political organization in Ontario and can trace its roots back to the Confederacy of Three Fires,which existed long before European contact.

May 24/06

Native leader challenges government

Social record ‘unacceptable’: Beaucage

NIPISSING FIRST NATION - Canada has a lot of work to do to improve economic, social and cultural rights in this country, according to a draft report from the United Nations Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.  Although Canada continues to rank high on the Human Development index, the United Nations felt compelled to comment on a number of areas including concerns specific to Canada’s First Peoples.  
According to the UN Report: “The Committee regrets that most of its 1993 and 1998 recommendations have not been implemented, and that the State party has not addressed in an effective manner the following principal subjects of concern..”   
One of the main concerns in the report is the “disparities that still persist between Aboriginal peoples and the rest of the Canadian population in the enjoyment of (International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights) Covenant rights”.  “Canada’s social, economic and cultural rights record pertaining to First Nations is unacceptable.  The government has some real soul searching to do,” said Grand Council Chief John Beaucage who represents 43 First Nations in Ontario.  “This is a black eye for Canada and I challenge Prime Minister Harper to work with us to eliminate First Nations poverty.”   
Last week, Grand Council Chief Beaucage released a document called the “Political Manifesto of the Anishinabek Nation” calling for the elimination of Anishinabek Nation poverty in 20 years.   
“My plan takes into account a number of objectives, including a new approach to funding First Nations government, building a First Nations economy and working cooperatively with all parties including government,” said Beaucage. “This will not happen if the government continues to bury its head in the sand.  We are ready to do our part, is the government ready to do their part?”   
Beaucage feels the government needs to take more substantive steps to address poverty.   
“First Nations would like to see the government address poverty in a more substantial way,” said Beaucage referring to the committee’s conclusions about poverty.  “We need Canada to define a poverty line, and develop social assistance and minimum wages based on that standard.  This would go a long way towards eradicating First Nations poverty.”   
Beaucage feels the key is to implement the objectives of the already agreed-upon First Ministers’ Kelowna Accord.   
“This government has yet to respond or commit to the agreements of the First Ministers.  Many of the UN’s concerns are dealt with in a substantial way by the First Ministers including its concerns over poverty, health, housing and education,” concluded Beaucage. 

Some of the concluding observations from the United Nations Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights: 

• “The disparities that still persist between Aboriginal peoples and the rest of the Canadian population in the enjoyment of (International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights) Covenant rights, as well as the discrimination still experienced by Aboriginal women in matters of matrimonial property.”  
• “The absence of an official poverty line.”  
• “The insufficiency of minimum wage and social assistance to ensure the realization of the right to an adequate standard of living for all.”  
• “The Committee is concerned that, despite Canada’s economic prosperity and the reduction of the number of people living below the Low Income Cut Off, 11.2 percent of its population still lived in poverty in 2004, and that significant differences in levels of poverty persist between Provinces and Territories. The Committee also notes with particular concern that poverty rates remain very high among disadvantaged and marginalized individuals and groups such as Aboriginal peoples…”  
• “The Committee is also concerned by the significant disparities still remaining between Aboriginal people and the rest of the population in areas of employment, access to water, health, housing and education…”  
• “No time frame has been set up for the consideration and implementation of the recommendations of the Task Force on Aboriginal Languages and Cultures, and that no concrete measures have been adopted in the area of intellectual property for the protection and promotion of ancestral rights and traditional knowledge of Aboriginal peoples…”  

The Anishinabek Nation incorporated the Union of Ontario Indians as its secretariat in 1949. The UOI is a political advocate for 43 member First Nations across Ontario.  The UOI is the oldest political organization in Ontario and can trace its roots back to the Confederacy of Three Fires, which existed long before European contact.

May 23/06

Teachings of a 167-year-old wampum belt

sootoday.com 

A 167-year old wampum belt that once belonged to Chief Shingwauk wrapped around full circle at Garden River First Nation yesterday.
The belt's parallel rows of purple and white beads are the foundation of yesterday's agreement between Shingwauk Education Trust and Algoma University College, a historic covenant between Anishinabe and European peoples.
The Garden River Community Centre was filled to bursting with dignitaries, some decked out in full regalia to mark the historic signing.
The purple row of beads represents the teachings, values and beliefs of the Anishinabe people and their boats, said Garden River Chief Lyle Sayers.
"The row of white beads represents the teachings of the settlers who came to this country and their tall ships," Sayers said.
He said that each row of beads is equal, signifying how the two peoples can advance in tandem with generous and plentiful cross-pollination of ideas and cooperation.
"It gives me great pleasure to know that an agreement is being signed with another university that will lead us into a new era," said Sayers, one of seven direct descendents of Chief Shingwauk who wtinessed yesterday's coventant-signing.
The Shingwauk covenant begins the process of creating two independent universities that will share the same space and resources.
Students will be able to enroll in either Algoma University or Shingwauk University and to take courses offered through either school.
Fontaine and others who spoke yesterday remembered the pain and suffering of residential school survivors at Shingwauk Hall which later became Algoma University College.
The Shingwauk Covenant represents a start down a road to a place where they can begin to heal themselves, Boissoneau said.
Assembly of First Nations National Chief Phil Fontaine agreed, saying that education is the foundation for positive changes in aboriginal communities.
Fontaine talked about the need for more professional First Nations people - doctors, lawyers and such.
"We are poised to do great things through education," said Fontaine.
About four years ago, Garden River First Nation members first learned that the wampum belt Chief Shingwauk gave to Sir John Colbourne in 1838 to help get a school for Anishnabe in the area was up for auction at Sotheby's in New York.
"I tried to go through channels to get it released to us but they wouldn't let it go," said Sayers.
After getting the nod from Garden River Band Council to spend up to $50,000 U.S. to buy it, Sayers got on the phone and placed a bid.
"In about a minute $34,000 U.S. had been spent and the wampum was on its way back home," said Sayers. "But it wasn't about the money; it was about bringing the wampum back home."

May 18/06

Grand Council Chief John Beaucage announces the Political Manifesto at the Nbisiing Education Centre.  Chief Phil Goulais of Nipissing First Nations looks on.    Monica Lister Photo

First Nations leader outlines revolutionary agenda

Elimination of the Indian Act
Elimination of Anishinabek Nation poverty in 20 years

NIPISSING FIRST NATION (May 17, 2006) – Today, John Beaucage announced his candidacy for the office of Grand Council Chief by unveiling a revolutionary document entitled the Political Manifesto of the Anishinabek Nation.  The Political Manifesto is a statement of vision and principles that shall guide First Nations leadership, through the office of the Grand Council Chief, in planning and carrying out the political, social and governance agenda of the Anishinabek Nation over the next seven generations.  
In a signing ceremony held at the Nbisiing Education Centre, Beaucage gave his solemn commitment to the concepts and principle in the Political Manifesto.  He signed the Political Manifesto in the presence of the student body.  
“This is a sacred document, a treaty between the leadership and the Anishinabek people,” said Beaucage.  “I am honoured and humbled to fulfill the role of Grand Council Chief, based on these noble and sacred principles stated herein.”  
Chief Philip Goulais has committed to supporting Grand Council Chief Beaucage’s vision and has endorsed his candidacy for Grand Council Chief.  Chief Goulais also witnessed the signing of the Political Manifesto.  Beaucage’s nomination will be moved by Chief Patrick Madahbee of Aundeck Omni Kaning and seconded by Chief Veronica Waboose of Long Lake First Nation.  The election will take place at the annual Grand Council Assembly which will take place June 12-14, 2006 at Sand Point First Nation on Lake Nipigon.  
“The Political Manifesto, as well as the vision and actions of our governments are based on the teachings and authority granted to us by the Creator and are based on the Sacred Law of the Anishinabek that is inherent within all of us,” states Beaucage.

The Political Manifesto outlines a number of revolutionary concepts including:

• “The official language of the Anishinabek Nation is our original language, Anishinaabemowin.”  
• “Only our traditional governments have the right to define our citizenry and criteria for citizenship for our communities and within our Nation.  We reject the Indian Act in its attempt to legislate and define who an Anishinabek Nation citizen is, and as such, we reject the concept of Indian Status.”  
• “We are dedicated to the rebuilding of traditional governance in our Anishinabek Nation government and community governments.  We will work towards the necessary constitutional change that will recognize our traditional, community and communal governments as the third order of Government within Canada.”  
• “We shall work collectively towards the elimination of the Indian Act within 10 years.”
• Our primary political, social and governance agenda will be to secure and implement our inherent, aboriginal and treaty rights.”
• “We are the bona fide owners of the Great Lakes.  The rights of the lakes and lakebeds have never been ceded to the Crown.”
• “We will take a lead role in the environmental community in protecting and speaking for our Mother Earth.”
• “We shall collectively work towards the elimination of Anishinabek Nation poverty in 20 years.”  
• “The key to a prosperous, stable and healthy Anishinabek Nation is the establishment of a self-sustaining Anishinabek Nation economy."
• “Our Economic Strategy will be based on obtaining and sharing benefits from the whole of the Anishinabek Nation territory, including sharing and equalization of resources and benefits.  We can no longer rely solely on Indian monies and government revenues to finance our community and Anishinabek Nation Governments and social needs.”

 Beaucage also introduced his election campaign website at http://www.johnbeaucage.com and his toll-free number at 1-800-635-1884.

John Beaucage is the incumbent Grand Council Chief of the Anishinabek Nation.  The Anishinabek Nation incorporated the Union of Ontario Indians as its secretariat in 1949. The UOI is a political advocate for 42 member First Nations across Ontario. The UOI is the oldest political organization in Ontario and can trace its roots back to the Confederacy of Three Fires, which existed long before European contact. 

For more information contact:

Bob Goulais
(705) 498-5250
info@johnbeaucage.com  

May 12/06

National Chief Phil Fontaine and Grand Council Chief John Beaucage in conversation at the First Peoples' Reception on Parliament Hill on May 4.  Grand Council Chief Beaucage and The Hon. Tony Clement, Minister of Health co-hosted the historic reception, a first on Parliament Hill.  

Photo By Bryan Hendry, AFN

May 12/06

AFN National Chief Says Drug Spending in Canada Report Confirms Discrimination of First Nations

Yesterdays’ Canadian Institute of Health Information (CIHI) report on drug spending in Canada confirms that First Nations receive the least amount of health funding per person.
“We are among the poorest of the poor in Canada, which includes having the poorest health status. Health Canada has acknowledged this for many years.” said National Chief Phil Fontaine. “The average per person drug spending for First Nations is $419 compared to an average of $770 per Canadian, a difference of $350. This is simply unacceptable.
“This situation will only continue to get much worse since there is a projected $2 billion deficit over the next five years on health spending for First Nations,” commented the National Chief. “Our people suffer from poor health as a direct result of living in poverty. And yet the government continues to cut corners with our health services.”
In 2004-5, the Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program, of the First Nations and Inuit Health Branch (FNIHB) of Health Canada, spent approximately $320.6 million on drug benefits, which averages out to $419 per person for the total population of 765,000 First Nations and Inuit. By contrast, the drug spending for Canada’s 133,000 veterans is approximately $843 per person; the 67,000 members of the Department of National Defence receive $3,519 per person; for the 21,255 inmates in federal prisons, it is $6,492 per person.    
“The NIHB Program has many barriers and restrictions for First Nations accessing the drug plan. Most drugs on the NIHB Benefit list are cheaper generics, while the more expensive drugs or therapies are often listed as limited use, or may require prior approvals,” noted the National Chief. “Health Canada’s mandate is to increase the health status of First Nations. Why then is the government openly restricting access to benefits? With a 3% cap on the NIHB funding envelope, as opposed to a 6 per escalator for the rest of Canadians, First Nations will continue to suffer unnecessarily.”
The AFN released a First Nations Action Plan on NIHB in April, 2005 that sets out recommendations for addressing the current discrimination.
The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada.

May 3/06

Natives blast police over e-mails

By Hayley Mick
The Globe and Mail

TORONTO – Aboriginal leaders are calling for harsher penalties after five officers with Peel Regional Police were docked three days pay for circulating e-mails that mocked native Canadians as drunken criminals.
The reprimand includes sensitivity training for the officers, who forwarded e-mails that were "certainly inappropriate and could be viewed as offensive," Constable Craig Platt, a spokesman for the police department in the region west of Toronto, said yesterday.
But Bob Goulais, a spokesman for the Union of Ontario Indians,said the disciplinary action, which follows a six-month investigation, is too light and will do little to deter racism. The incident occurred late last year. 
More than one e-mail was circulated last year containing offensive material about natives. One included a song called the Native Rap, which describes aboriginals robbing liquor stores, punching old ladies, "curb-stomping Whities," slapping women and shaking babies. 
The audio file was obtained by CBC News, which tracked it to an officer in Brampton Police began an investigation in November, after a reporter told the department about the e-mail.
Constable Platt said the investigators traced the path of more than one offensive e-mail, which led to the disciplinary action against five officers. 
The officers did not write the material, he said.
But Mr. Goulais's organization, which represents 43 native bands, said the incident is "disturbing" and the officers should be dismissed. 
"These are people in direct positions of authority," he said. "There are implications with how they deal with first nations people when they actually meet them on the street." 
Constable Platt said the officers were not suspended after investigators weighed several factors, which included their previous conduct and the type of materials sent. 
Their identities are being withheld because they were not charged under the Police Services Act.

May 3/06

Native leader slams police over 'racist' e-mails

CTV.ca News Staff

Aboriginal leaders are calling for harsher penalties after Ontario police officers had their pay docked for three days for circulating e-mails that mocked natives as drunken criminals.
The five officers, who work for Peel Regional Police, were reprimanded and ordered to undergo sensitivity training following the incident, which occurred in late 2005.
The e-mails were "certainly inappropriate and could be viewed as offensive," Constable Craig Platt, a spokesman for the police department in the region west of Toronto, told The Globe and Mail Tuesday.
One of the e-mails circulated included a song called 'Native Rap,' which describes aboriginals robbing liquor stores, punching old ladies, "curb-stomping Whities," slapping women and shaking babies.
Bob Goulais, a spokesman for the Union of Ontario Indians, said the disciplinary action, which followed a six-month investigation, is too light and will do little to deter racism.
Goulais, who represents 43 native bands, said the incident is "disturbing" and the officers should be dismissed.
"These are people in direct positions of authority," he told The Globe.
"There are implications with how they deal with first nations people when they actually meet them on the street."
Platt said the investigators traced the path of more than one offensive e-mail, which led to the disciplinary action against the five officers.
The officers did not write the material themselves, Platt said.
Platt said the officers were not suspended after investigators weighed several factors, which included their previous conduct and the type of materials sent.
Their identities are being withheld because they were not charged under the Police Services Act.

May 2/06

Budget a ‘patchwork foundation’ to 
Harper’s aboriginal agenda

NIPISSING FIRST NATION – First Nations had been expecting some key financial deliverables arising from the November First Ministers’ Meeting including financial commitments to address the elimination of poverty, aboriginal health care, drinking water quality and substandard infrastructure, and housing. 
“This budget is a far cry from what was committed by the First Ministers,” said Grand Council Chief Beaucage. “Once again, we’ve been left out in the cold. Like the proverbial poor person looking in through a frosted window watching somebody having a real nice dinner in a fancy restaurant.”
“Addressing poverty and improving the living conditions of First Nations people is arguably the most pressing social issue in Canada today," said Beaucage. "Unfortunately, the government is laying only a patchwork foundation to Stephen Harper’s aboriginal agenda.” 
“This budget will mean First Nations will continue to be marginalized and subject to third world poverty,” he said. 
Beaucage expressed disappointment in the $450 million “new approach” plan to improve education outcomes, socio-economic conditions for aboriginal women, children and families and water supply and housing on-reserve.
Beaucage was particularly critical with the lack of any fundamental investment for on-reserve housing. First Nations have long maintained there is a significant shortage of housing in First Nations' communities across Canada. Needs estimates range from 35,000 to 85,000 new units. 
In this budget, the government did committed up to $300 million to address immediate pressures in off-reserve Aboriginal housing. 
“I acknowledge the government’s attempt toward addressing housing especially off-reserve and in urban centers. It may not be what was committed by the First Ministers but it’s a start,” said Grand Council Chief Beaucage, who hold the National Portfolio for Housing at the Assembly of First Nations and the Ontario First Nations portfolio for Housing at the Chiefs of Ontario.
These funds, however, will be allocated to the Provinces. 
“The Government of Ontario must now begin working with our First Nations governments in addressing off-reserve and urban housing,” said Beaucage. The Grand Council Chief looks forward to working with The Hon. David Ramsay, Minister Responsible for Aboriginal Affairs and The Hon. John Gerretsen, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing to implement a constructive approach to implementing this new funding commitment for housing. 
“Despite our disappointment, we are very willing to work with this government and the Province of Ontario to address our immediate housing needs and demonstrate that our vision of housing can work,” he said 
Despite this overall disappointment, Beaucage expressed pleasure in the $2.2 billion commitment to address the legacy of residential schools. 
“I am excited to see the Harper government honour the agreement to compensate residential school survivors,” said Beaucage. “Our elders have fought their entire lives, have sacrificed so much in addressing this tragic part of Canadian history. I now look forward to the establishment of a truth and reconciliation commission that will educate all Canadians about Residential Schools and how it has affected all First Nations society.” 
The Anishinabek Nation incorporated the Union of Ontario Indians as its secretariat in 1949. The UOI is a political advocate for 42 member First Nations across Ontario. The UOI is the oldest political organization in Ontario and can trace its roots back to the Confederacy of Three Fires, which existed long before European contact. 

May 2/06

Sent From Above

My high voice makes it easier to call
From my Spirit, Love is rising above all
Take my hand, April. 
Walk me through those doors.
You can move me 
More than anyone before.

I’ll share you mine. If you share me yours.
It’s better this way.
Loneliness, now it’s now gone.
Hold me tight and take me home.
Let’s call it a day
Loneliness, now it’s gone.

I cannot help it 
Can’t hide my smile ‘round my friends
Your affects are shining through my shallow fence
I want to show the world what you finally made me see
This is exactly what I wanted. You with me.

I’ll share you mine. If you share me yours.
It’s better this way.
Loneliness, now it’s now gone.
Hold me tight and take me home.
Let’s call it a day
Loneliness, now it’s gone.

Is this real?
I’m so scared this is killing me
But the way it feels
Can’t ignore its possibility

It’s been sent, a gift from heaven up above
Open your arms for me, and cherish all my Love
So much more that fate, its faith. hope and belief
The Spirit blessed us with this partnership to keep. 

’ll share you mine. If you share me yours.
It’s better this way.
Loneliness, now it’s now gone.
Hold me tight and take me home.
Let’s call it a day
Loneliness, now it’s gone.

May 2/06

Building to be named after
most decorated Native soldier

By Adrian Hayes
Special to the Parry-Sound North Star

WASAUKSING – The Canadian Armed Forces will recognize Wasauksing First Nation war hero Francis Pegahmagabow, Canada’s most decorated First Peoples soldier, by naming a building after him at CFB Borden.
The headquarters building of the 3rd Canadian Ranger Patrol Group, composed almost entirely of 400 Cree, Ojibwa and Oji-Cree reservists living in isolated communities in northern Ontario, will be dedicated in a ceremony attended by Lt.-Gov. James Bartleman on June 6.
More than three dozen family members are also expected to attend, as well as military officials, Wasauksing Chief Wilfred King, Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief John Beaucage and members of the Royal Canadian Legion, Pioneer Branch, in Parry Sound.
Cpl. Pegahmagabow enlisted for overseas service with the Canadian Expeditionary Force within days of Canada’s declaration of war on Germany in August 1914. He served as a scout and sniper with the 1st Battalion. He was awarded the Military Medal in June 1916 for his courage under fire in getting messages through during the fighting at Ypres, Festubert and Givenchy.
During the November 1917 assault on Passchendale, he won a bar to the medal and then a second bar in August 1918 at the Battle of the Scarpe, where he climbed out of a trench and ran through heavy enemy machine-gun fire to fetch ammunition. Only 38 Canadian soldiers have ever been recognized with a second bar.
The process to name the 3rd Canadian Ranger Patrol Group headquarters building at CFB Borden after Cpl. Pegahmagabow began in June 2005, shortly after the commanding officer, Maj. Keith Lawrence, and public affairs ranger Sgt. Peter Moon, happened upon the permanent exhibit at the new Canadian War Museum of Pegahmagabow’s decorations, medals and other artifacts donated by his descendants.
While both men knew about the exploits of Sgt. Tommy Prince, MM and U.S. Silver Star, a Manitoba veteran of the Second World War and the Korean War who died in 1977, neither had heard of Pegahmagabow. Whereas there’s a street in Winnipeg named after Sgt. Prince and a monument honours him as “Canada’s most decorated aboriginal war veteran,” Cpl. Pegahmagabow is not as well-known nationally.
“There’s this display on the good corporal and Peter Moon and I looked at each other and it just flashed. This is it. And the realization that it wasn’t Tommy Prince, it wasn’t Sgt. Prince who was the most decorated. This was the guy and he was being highlighted as an aboriginal soldier. I just thought that brought everything together. Our building right now is S113. There’s not a lot of juice to that,” Maj. Lawrence said. “By naming our building after him, it’s the first stage in righting a perceived wrong or misperception. It allows us to get the story out a little more.”
The Rangers were established in 1947 as a Cold War means to patrol remote northern locales for signs of Soviet intrusions. They number about 4,500 reservists, divided into five groups across the country, in every province and territory except New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia. Often involved in search-and-rescue operations, they also frequently provide help when flooding or forest fires threaten northern communities. In the fall of 2005, the 3rd Canadian Ranger Patrol Group assisted with the evacuation of Kashechewan during the tainted water crisis.
“We’ve gone through a little bit of a transformation in the last year. We’ve physically moved to a new location. We’ve become a bigger organization. We’ve become more robust in what we do. We’ve developed a higher profile. When you roll all that together it just seemed to make sense that we should have an appropriate name for the centre of our operations and I’m delighted about it. I really am. We are 98 percent Cree, Oji-Cree and Ojibwa and this just seems to be a natural fit,” Maj. Lawrence said.
According to Maj. Lawrence, the protocol to name a building after a person requires approval throughout the military chain of command right up to the Directorate of History at National Defence Headquarters.
“In our case, we have a lot to do with First Nations, so naming it after this individual meets the criterion of appropriateness. It’s a defined process that usually takes about six months,” Maj, Lawrence said. “This one just sailed through with no objections whatsoever.”
Maj. Lawrence’s plans include the construction of a cairn in front of the building using rock transported from Wasauksing First Nation, with a plaque explaining why it’s named after Cpl. Pegahmagabow. Chief King of Wasauksing was pleased when told of the proposal last week and confirmed that he would cooperate wholeheartedly to honour the local hero, who also served as chief for seven years and councillor for another three.
“The country recognizing him as a war hero, I really appreciate that,” he said.
Although Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Beaucage said it was exciting that Cpl. Pegahmagabow was being acknowledged, he also expressed regret that only the youngest of the veteran’s eight children, Marie Anderson of Parry Sound, is still alive.
“I think that it’s a wonderful thing that there is this recognition. All too often the native veterans have been the ones left out in the cold,” Chief Beaucage said. “It’s unfortunate that it comes after Francis’s death and it comes after the death of Francis’s son Duncan (who died in November 2004). It would have been wonderful if all of the family could have been involved with seeing the recognition of Francis.”

May 1/06

Oh how the water moves!

From Laura Liberty, Ontario:  Boozhoo, I returned yesterday evening from walking with the Lake Ontario water walkers. After the send off Josephine and supporters drove to a small picturesque park where she managed to dip her copper vessel and gather some water. Luckily she didn’t fall in! Violet started things off along the lake shore, then Angel , myself, Beatrice, Charmaine, Hilda, Lucy, Melvina, Josephine , and Melvina each took a turn singing water songs as we walked.
Forgive me for forgetting the names of the young men but Hilda’s son, and Melvina’s son BJ, Violets’ son, Adam  among  others were eager to take turns carrying the Eagle Staff. All of the streams and rivers we passed received our prayers and tobacco. After retiring the staff and water in St.Catharines local supporters Jackie and her partner who live in St. Catherines brought a big pot of corn soup, and a pot of ham soup made by a local chef named Ted Ceasar. He operates his own restaurant “The Beantree” and there fore was unable to join us on the trail. The soup was fabulous and it disappeared quickly. With full bellies everyone retired for the night. It was a beautiful day!
I joined in the next day after working in nearby St. Catharines. The water walkers had arrived in Grimsby and were making their way to Wynona when I caught up with them. The water sure moves! Once again we were treated to a big pot of ghoulash delivered by Jackie and her partner, cooked by Ted. It was delicious! this lunch break took place in a park in Hamilton. Josephine was interviewed by the local TV station with Lake Ontario in the background.
The walkers arrived in Burlington when I had to leave them at around 4:00 pm. Only the second day into the journey and the water was moving forward as it  should be!!

May 1/05

Among the Seneca

From Carol Hopkins, Erie:  Hey there.  We walked with four women from the Seneca Nation today.  As we walked earlier today, we saw a beautiful penumbra around Geezis (the sun) – many awesome colors. We also encounter the incredible smell of sweetgrass a couple of times as we walked.  We finished our walk with them at the Seneca Nation beach. 
It was really hot this afternoon – about 29 Celsius and we were so thankful to cool off for a bit in the water.  Some other women joined us at the beach who arrived by kayak with some food.
As we continued our day we tobacco'ed many many rivers and streams from the Seneca Nation to Fort Erie.  We are still on our way to Fort Erie.
Yesterday was pretty incredible too - after the send off we went to the whirlpool near the Falls and offered tobacco and song and then we walked to the Rainbow Falls (U.S. side of the falls) and then finished by walking around Goat Island.  As we offered our tobacco over there, a rainbow came to the very point where we were standing.
The spirit is kind and loving – its all been great.

Apr. 30/06

Sending off the Water Walkers 

From Carol Hopkins, Erie: We just finished the send off ceremony, led by the Chief Little Boy water drum and Onabinaise (Jim Dumon) and it was nothing short of absolutely awesome - the spirit is full of love and there is much excitement with everyone involved. 
Josephine is off to fill her copper pail with water from lake ontario and then begin the walk.  Hilda and family, Violet Melvina, Angel Rodney, Bea, Charmain, Pauline and Luanna and others are with Josephine.  Gram, Nancy, Nick, Mary, Beendigay and Daintry, Krystal, Shkawbaywis and Dawnestelle, Jess and Gabe, Brian Hill, Mark, Dave, Val, Carol, and all the kids are on our way right now to whirlpool park for tobacco offerings and will finish the day at the Rainbow Falls/U.S. side of the falls.

Apr. 29/06

Native women walk around Great Lakes

Native women and supporters to walk around Great Lakes

NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE – (CCNMatthews - April 29, 2006) -  A determined group of First Nations women and their supporters will embark on a walk around two Great Lakes beginning Saturday. This spring brings a unique finale to the vision of the Mother Earth Water Walk. Lake Erie and Lake Ontario will be circled simultaneously by two groups of Anishinabe Women and Men."It's important to bring awareness to people of the state of our water and that we have to do something about it," said Irene Peters, 67, lead Grandmother on the Lake Erie walk.
"Water is precious and sacred. It is one of the basic elements needed for all life to exist," said Grandmother Josephine Mandamin, 63, who will lead the Lake Ontario walk.
The Fourth Annual Mother Earth Water Walk will begin on Saturday, April 29th 2006 at the Niagara Regional Friendship Centre in Niagara-in-the-Lake at 10:30 a.m. with a potluck feast. Both groups of Water Walkers will commence their walk after the feast. The Lake Erie Water Walk is expected to be completed in mid-May.
Grandmother Peters, Grandmother Mandamin and a group of women and supporters from the Three Fires Society are calling for action from each community that they pass through on their walk.
"It is important for each community to think of what they can do to protect the water. Each community will come up with their own ideas of how they can keep the water clean," said Grandmother Peters. "It is also a personal responsibility. We have to ask ourselves: How are we using the water? We should not be wasting the water. We should not be putting our garbage in there," said Peters.
It is their collective belief that the prayers offered for the water will make a positive impact for the future, in that our future generations and all of Creation will flourish with clean water. Water is being constantly polluted by chemicals, vehicle emissions, motor boats, sewage disposal, agricultural pollution, leaking landfill sites, and residential usage, exports and diversions is taking a toll on our water quality and quantity. Both Grandmothers hope the Mother Earth Water Walk will instil a positive dialogue among grass-roots citizens as well as government and policy makers.
The Mother Earth Water Walk started during the Spring of 2003 when Grandmother Josephine Mandamin led a group of walkers around Lake Superior. The Mother Earth Water Walk continued a year later around Lake Michigan. Last spring, the group completed a walk around Lake Huron.
The Walkers hope to raise awareness about the state of the Great Lakes water system and the importance of water as a sacred resource that is essential for life. Peters explains the correlation between her Anishinaabe teachings as a woman, the Anishinaabe creation story and the personal responsibility these women are taking.
"We know in Creation, women are given the gift to create and sustain life. We respect our bodies when we are carrying our children by watching what we put in our bodies. Well Mother Earth gives birth to all life and the water is her lifeblood. She needs to be respected also.
"The Water Walk is an opportunity for us to shift our thinking towards respect for life," concluded Mandamin.
The Water Walkers are working diligently to raise funds for this endeavour. Donations can be made directly to the Mother Earth Water Walkers - or - at the Bank of Montreal (Hyde Park & Oxford Street Branch, London, Ontario. Account Name: Irene Peters & R. Mark Bruder) - or - send cheques and money orders to: "Mother Earth Water Walk" 14615 Selton Line, Thamesville, Ontario N0P 2K0.

Interesting facts about the Mother Earth Water Walk:

·         In 2005 Grandmother Josephine Mandamin, 63, wore out 6 pairs of shoes.

·         The Walkers travel an average of 70 kilometres per day.

·         The women carry a large copper bucket (8 litres) of water.

·         The men carry a symbolic eagle staff to offer strength to the women.

·         The Walkers stop to make an offering of tobacco at many streams, rivers and tributaries along the route.

·         The Walkers rise before 5 in the morning, hold a morning ceremony and begin their walk before sunrise.

For further information call: (519) 615-5451.

Apr. 22/06

An Interesting Tidbit:

Michigan's Environmental Record as both Tap and Dump

Picture two trucks passing one another at Michigan's border. 
One is taking away tons of Michigan's fresh water...
while the other is bringing in tons of Canadian garbage.

That's the reality.

As the estimated 190,000 diesel powered Nestle trucks ship out Michigan water every year, while another 295,000 dump trucks enter, 
bearing Canadian trash.

Apr. 22/06

Great Lakes for sale! 
Michigan's Odawa Indians lead anti-Nestle fight

By Brian McKenna
Columbus Free Press

If water is the oil of the 21st century, then Michigan, smack dab in the middle of the Great Lakes, is Saudi Arabia. And after banging their straws at the Big Dipper for years, Nestle Corporation has finally succeeded in plunging into the liquid gold.
On February 28th Michigan Governor Granholm signed a bill that will, for the first time, permit a multinational corporation to scoop up given amounts of the Great Lakes and sell bottled water across the world. For the first time in history the concept of the Great Lakes as a commons for all to enjoy has been breached. And NAFTA, as we'll see, might insure a run on the Great Lakes.
The new Michigan law allows Nestle Corporation to continue its five-year takings of up to 250,000 gallons per day and sell them at a markup well over 240 times its production cost. Nestle's profit from drawing this water could be from $500,000 to $1.8 million per day. A key proviso is that the bottles can be no larger than 5.7 gallons apiece.
Nestle had been ferociously fighting in court to prevent Granholm from exercising her veto power against diversion, but with her acquiescence to the 250,000 limit, Nestle dropped its suit.
The irony is that most mainstream environmentalists compromised with Nestle and the Governor. James Clift the policy director of the Michigan Environmental Council (MEC), a coalition of about 70 environmental organizations, called the new law, "a huge step forward for Michigan." Not so says Dave Dempsey, the former Policy Director of MEC. "I think Nestle is dancing in the streets." Dempsey is author of "On the Brink, The Great Lakes in the 21st Century."

Largest gathering of Great Lakes Tribes since 1764

First Nations people are at the forefront in mounting challenges to Nestle and the nation state sovereigns along several fronts. Frank Ettawageshik is Chair of the Little Traverse Bay tribe of Indians. In February, 2002 the tribe filed suit against Nestle and Governor Engler in federal court contending the Ice Mountain project violated the 1986 Water Resources Development Act which protected water as a public trust. It was later dismissed in June 2002, the judge claiming the tribes had no right to sue.
Ettawageshik fought on, telling audiences he feared, "soon there will be bus tours of the sunken ships of the Great Lakes," if this goes forward. He calls the Lakes, "the white pine of the 21st century," referencing the logging assault which felled most of Michigan's forests in the nineteenth century.
Angry that the U.S. and Canadian governments disrespected the tribes in its 2001 Great Lakes Charter, where tribes were treated as "stakeholders" not sovereign nations, Ettawageshik deliberated with other tribes about a response. After a while he joined John Beaucage, Grand Council Chief of the Union of Ontario Indians to form a coalition of more than 140 tribes to sign the historic Tribal and First Nations Great Lakes Water Accord.
The organization is called the United Indian Nations of he Great Lakes (UINGL) and it was officially launched in April 2005 in Niagara Falls, Ontario. The location is historically significant. It was the largest gathering of Great Lakes native leaders since the Treaty of Niagara in 1764. That Treaty grew out of he Royal Proclamation of 1763 which provided all land west of the Ottawa River as Indian land.
Ettawageshik was influenced by the Water Walkers of the Great Lakes. In 2003 Indian women began journeys around the Great Lakes carrying a copper bucket full of water. They want to recall the traditional Anishnabe role of women as protectors of water, what they call the lifeblood of Mother Earth. So far they have completed treks around Lakes Superior, Michigan and Huron. They begin their walk around Lake Ontario on April 29, departing from Niagara. 
"We're not stakeholders but bonafide owners," Bob Goulais, a spokesperson for the Union of Ontario Indians, told me. "The Great Lakes are not for sale."

Countering 'Neoliberalism'

Tribes represent a counterculture to neoliberalism, putting forth a public politics that underscores a collective responsibility to resist capital encroachments.
Michigan Governor Granholm herself called the tribes "Michigan's original environmentalists," when she signed an Intergovernmental Accord with them in May 2004. But she didn't listen closely enough when the tribes told her that "Preserving the environmental quality and quantity of Great Lakes water resources for the present and for the next seven generations is absolutely essential to the Tribes."
Indians are at the forefront of establishing an anti-corporate discourse and movement. They were at the fore in Bolivia against Bechtel, on the march against multinationals in Mexico City, and are now are at the lead in the Great Lakes. But mainstream environmentalists typically resemble the nation's Democrats willing to acco