tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55307039583265791102024-03-12T21:36:49.787-06:00Metis Bare FactsA forum for Metis people to share information, events, views and issues.MetisMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03554425171029253662noreply@blogger.comBlogger191125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5530703958326579110.post-78466711676041172842009-06-16T06:03:00.001-06:002009-06-16T06:13:02.726-06:00MNC and Presentation to the Senate<meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CADMINI%7E1%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><title>Metis National Council</title><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="PlaceType"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="PlaceName"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="City"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="State"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="country-region"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="place"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="stockticker"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="phone"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="date"></o:smarttagtype><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:documentproperties> <o:author>HP Authorized Customer</o:Author> <o:version>10.6735</o:Version> </o:DocumentProperties> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} p.Default, li.Default, div.Default {mso-style-name:Default; mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:Arial; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; color:black;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--><b><span style="font-size: 11.5pt;">
<br /></span></b><p class="Default"><b><span style="font-size: 11.5pt;">FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE </span></b><span style="font-size: 11.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="Default"><st1:date year="2009" day="11" month="6"><b><span style="font-size: 11.5pt;">June 11, 2009</span></b></st1:date></p><p class="Default">
<br /><st1:date year="2009" day="11" month="6"><b><span style="font-size: 11.5pt;"></span></b></st1:date><b><span style="font-size: 11.5pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="Default"><span style="font-size: 11.5pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="Default"><b><span style="font-size: 18pt;">Action needed for </span></b><st1:place><st1:placename><b><span style="font-size: 18pt;">Métis</span></b></st1:placename><b><span style="font-size: 18pt;"> </span></b><st1:placename><b><span style="font-size: 18pt;">Residential</span></b></st1:placename><b><span style="font-size: 18pt;"> </span></b><st1:placetype><b><span style="font-size: 18pt;">School</span></b></st1:placetype></st1:place><b><span style="font-size: 18pt;"> Survivors </span></b><span style="font-size: 18pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="Default"><b><i><span style="font-size: 11.5pt;">One year after apology, vast majority of Métis Survivors still without compensation </span></i></b><span style="font-size: 11.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="Default"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="Default"><st1:place><st1:city><span style="font-size: 10pt;">
<br /></span></st1:city></st1:place></p><p class="Default"><st1:place><st1:city><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Ottawa</span></st1:city><span style="font-size: 10pt;">, </span><st1:state><span style="font-size: 10pt;">ON</span></st1:state></st1:place><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> -- Métis National Council (</span><st1:stockticker><span style="font-size: 10pt;">MNC</span></st1:stockticker><span style="font-size: 10pt;">) President Clément Chartier is calling for government action in compensating Métis residential school survivors excluded from the Indian Residential School Settlements Agreement. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="Default"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="Default"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">
<br /></span></p><p class="Default"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">While addressing a special sitting of the Senate marking the first anniversary of Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s apology for </span><st1:country-region><st1:place><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Canada</span></st1:place></st1:country-region><span style="font-size: 10pt;">’s past assimilation policies and the </span><st1:place><st1:placename><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Indian</span></st1:placename><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> </span><st1:placename><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Residential</span></st1:placename><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> </span><st1:placetype><span style="font-size: 10pt;">School</span></st1:placetype></st1:place><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> system, President Chartier said little progress has been made in addressing the concerns of Métis survivors who’ve been denied compensation. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="Default"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="Default"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">
<br /></span></p><p class="Default"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">“When I participated in that apology ceremony, I pledged the Métis Nation was prepared and willing to do our part in </span><st1:country-region><st1:place><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Canada</span></st1:place></st1:country-region><span style="font-size: 10pt;">’s collective journey towards healing and reconciliation,” said Chartier during his address to the Senate. “I wish I could report a strong beginning to that journey during the past year, but for most Métis survivors this is simply not true.” <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="Default"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="Default"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">
<br /></span></p><p class="Default"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">While a small number of Métis who attended schools recognized by the settlement agreement are eligible for compensation, the vast majority of Métis survivors attend schools not included. These schools were church-run and government-sanctioned, but for the most part were funded by Provincial governments or religious order and not part of the federally funded Indian Residential School System. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="Default"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="Default"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">
<br /></span></p><p class="Default"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">“They were run with the same assimilationist intent and methods, and today neither the federal nor provincial governments are willing to accept responsibility for what happened,” said Chartier. “This impasse over how to deal with Métis survivors personifies in real human terms the true cost of </span><st1:city><st1:place><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Ottawa</span></st1:place></st1:city><span style="font-size: 10pt;">’s persistent refusal to accept historical, constitutional and moral responsibility for dealing with the Métis as a distinct Aboriginal people and nation.” <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="Default"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="Default"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">
<br /></span></p><p class="Default"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Chartier did commend Minister Chuck Strahl, Federal Interlocutor for Métis, for signing the Métis Nation Protocol in September 2008. The Protocol commits the Federal Government and the Métis National Council to work together on a range of bilateral issues, and where appropriate it allows for multilateral discussion with provincial governments from Ontario-westward. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="Default"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="Default"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">
<br /></span></p><p class="Default"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Chartier said Minister Strahl has demonstrated a personal commitment to move ahead with the leadership of the Métis Nation in the year following the apology, and the Métis National Council is encouraged in its work with the Minister in area of economic development. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="Default"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="Default"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">
<br /></span></p><p class="Default"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">“Promising as these initiatives may be,” said Chartier, “they do not address the long outstanding need for justice for those who those who experienced the horrors of the Métis residential school system” <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="Default"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="Default"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">
<br /></span></p><p class="Default"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">President Chartier went on to ask both chambers of Parliament to call on the federal government to assert its jurisdictional responsibility for dealing with the Métis Nation, and ensure all Métis survivors get the compensation they deserve. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="Default"><span style="font-size: 9.5pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="Default">
<br /></p><p class="Default"><span style="font-size:85%;">For more information contact Greg Taylor, <st1:stockticker>MNC</st1:stockticker> Communications, at <st1:phone o_x003a_ls="trans" phonenumber="$6296$$$">(613) <st1:phone o_x003a_ls="trans" phonenumber="$6296$$$">296-9263</st1:phone></st1:phone> or gregt@metisnation.ca. </span><span style="font-size: 9.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> MetisMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03554425171029253662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5530703958326579110.post-74055114109740602472009-06-05T23:29:00.000-06:002009-06-05T23:31:12.529-06:00Monument to Métis Who Served in WWI and WWII Announced for Juno BeachCOURSEULLES-SUR-MER, France, June 6 /CNW Telbec/ - A monument to Métis Nation citizens who fought during the two World Wars will be erected at Canada's Juno Beach Centre in Normandy, France. The Métis National Council's<br /><br /><br />Minister for Veterans Affairs, David Chartrand, made the announcement today while attending commemoration ceremonies marking the 65th anniversary of D-Day, the June 6, 1944 liberation of Europe by Allied Forces during World War II.<br /><br /><br />"Thousands of Métis Nation citizens bravely and selflessly answered the call to serve during the World Wars," said Chartrand. "This monument will stand in eternal remembrance to those Métis who fought, who were wounded, and who died defending their people, their country, and world freedom."<br /><br /><br />The monument will consist of an exhibit highlighting the history of the Métis Nation in Canada and a Red River Cart, a widely recognized symbol of the Métis Nation currently being constructed in the Métis Nation homeland. The Red River Cart will be accompanied by Métis Nation veterans and youth to Juno Beach in November, where they will take part in its unveiling with a dedication ceremony during 2009 Remembrance Day events.<br /><br /><br />"Métis soldiers, sailors, and aircrew made incredible sacrifices for Canada's war efforts," said Chartrand. "This monument is a long overdue acknowledgement to these brave Métis men and women."<br /><br /><br />Minister Chartrand went on to thank Veterans Affairs Canada and the Office of the Federal Interlocutor for Métis for their assistance in making the monument possible and providing resources for Métis Nation veterans and youth to participate in its dedication ceremony.MetisMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03554425171029253662noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5530703958326579110.post-6504462245444076442009-06-05T20:06:00.002-06:002009-06-05T20:09:37.391-06:00Supreme Court Application<meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CADMINI%7E1%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="country-region"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="place"></o:smarttagtype><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--><b><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">But as of today the Globe and Mail announced that Sharon McIvor will seek leave to appeal the decision to the Supreme Court of </span></b><st1:country-region><st1:place><b><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">Canada</span></b></st1:place></st1:country-region><b><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">.</span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <b><span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">The reason that we believe she is seeking the Supreme Court address is because the upper court in BC amended the first decision to only include individuals that are affected after 1985 rather then the original decision which included individuals who were effected since the 1800's. Te narrowing of the parameters effects 100's of thousands of people. In addition, we believe that she is hoping that the Supreme Court may give guidance in identifying mechanisms for the Federal Government to address the racist legislation.</span></b>
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<br />Globe and Mail
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<br />By Bill Curry
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<br /><meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CADMINI%7E1%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="City"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="place"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="time"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="stockticker"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="date"></o:smarttagtype><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} p {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p><st1:city><st1:place>Ottawa</st1:place></st1:city> — Globe and Mail Update, <st1:date year="2009" day="5" month="6"><st1:date year="2009" day="5" month="6">Friday, <st1:date ls="trans" month="6" day="05" year="2009"><st1:date ls="trans" month="6" day="05" year="2009">Jun. 05, 2009</st1:date></st1:date></st1:date></st1:date> <st1:time hour="10" minute="44"><st1:time hour="10" minute="44">10:44AM</st1:time></st1:time> <st1:stockticker><st1:stockticker>EDT</st1:stockticker></st1:stockticker> <u1:p></u1:p><o:p></o:p></p> <!-- /#credit --> <p>
<br /></p><p>The Supreme Court of Canada will be asked to decide whether thousands of Canadians should be added to the federal list of status Indians, a process that will likely pre-empt the government's plans to re-write the definition this fall. <u1:p></u1:p><o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>In an interview with The Globe and Mail, Sharon McIvor says she will seek leave to appeal a B.C. Court of Appeal decision in a case with major implications for native communities and the federal government. <u1:p></u1:p><o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>Ms. McIvor is a B.C. lawyer who first launched her legal battle against the Indian Act just months after it was re-written in 1985 – when she was still a law student - on the grounds that it continued to deny her Indian status because of her gender. <u1:p></u1:p><o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>Ms. McIvor's announcement comes just days after Indian Affairs Minister Chuck Strahl said the government would not appeal and intended to rewrite the definition of Indian status over the summer and introduce amendments to the Indian Act this fall. <u1:p></u1:p><o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>“The B.C. Court of Appeal narrowed the decision so much and gave the government license to add as few people as they possibly can,” she said in a telephone interview. But even though she and her son now have status, Ms. McIvor said she will launch a costly appeal on behalf of those who have been left out. <u1:p></u1:p><o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>“I won. My grandchildren will get status because that's what this was about, but you know, there are so many people out there that have been waiting and waiting and waiting and when the B.C. Court of Appeal made the decision and they narrowed it, it cut many of these people out. It's just not fair.” <u1:p></u1:p><o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>The Indian Act, which was first introduced in 1876, has not had a significant update since 1985. That rewrite 24 years ago sought to end the discrimination in the definition of status Indian as it applied to women. <u1:p></u1:p><o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>However, two court decisions in what is called the McIvor case have ruled that women are still treated unfairly in some scenarios when it comes to passing their status down to their grandchildren. <u1:p></u1:p><o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>Ms. McIvor successfully fought the provisions on the grounds that she was originally unable to pass on status to her grandchildren because she was a woman. <u1:p></u1:p><o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>The B.C. Supreme Court first issued a ruling that would have extended status to anyone who could prove discrimination in their family tree from 1876 to 1985. Ms. McIvor said that ruling, had it not been appealed, would have added about 100,000 people to the ranks of status Indians. <u1:p></u1:p><o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>The B.C. Court of Appeal then ruled in April that the current definition will be struck down by April, 2010, unless Parliament passes a new definition. That ruling found a more narrow form of discrimination, limited to the period from 1985 to the present. That ruling would likely only affect a few thousand people. However, the ruling did not recommend a way for MPs to fix the problem. <u1:p></u1:p><o:p></o:p></p> <meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CADMINI%7E1%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="country-region"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="place"></o:smarttagtype><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"\0022"; panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-alt:"Times New Roman"; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:roman; mso-font-format:other; mso-font-pitch:auto; mso-font-signature:0 0 0 0 0 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "",";";">
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "",";";">Having aboriginal status qualifies a Canadian citizen for non-insured health benefits from Health </span><st1:country-region><st1:place><span style="font-family: "",";";"><st1:country-region><st1:place>Canada</st1:place></st1:country-region></span></st1:place></st1:country-region><span style="font-family: "",";";">, as well possible federal support for post-secondary education.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style="font-family: "",";";"></span><o:p></o:p></p> MetisMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03554425171029253662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5530703958326579110.post-22539708790687065422009-06-05T19:51:00.004-06:002009-06-05T20:06:06.746-06:00Sharon McIvor is trying to take her case to the Supreme Court<span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0); font-weight: bold;">On June 4, 2009 - Minister Strahl advised that the Federal Government would not be challenging the decision of the Courts of BC in relation to the Sharon McIvor court case. </span>
<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">
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<br />Sharon McIvor's victory applauded by public-sector union
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<br /></span><meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CADMINI%7E1%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="date"></o:smarttagtype><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} p {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">By <a href="http://www.straight.com/archives/contributor/84">Charlie Smith</a><o:p></o:p></p> <p><!--paging_filter-->
<br /></p><p>The Public Service Alliance of Canada issued a <a href="http://www.psac.com/news/2009/issues/20090604-e.shtml" target="_blank">news release</a> today (June 4) to offer congratulations to <strong>Sharon McIvor</strong>, who waged a successful 22-year struggle to gain Indian status first for her son and later for her grandchildren. <o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>"I am thrilled to learn that this government has finally recognized that it was futile to carry on with this systemic form of gender discrimination," PSAC president <strong>John Gordon</strong> said in the news release. <o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>In April, a three-judge B.C. Court of Appeal panel ruled unanimously that a section of the Indian Act violated equality rights under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. <o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>According to the <a href="http://www.courts.gov.bc.ca/jdb-txt/CA/09/01/2009BCCA0153err1.htm" target="_blank">decision</a> written by Justice <strong>Harvey Groberman</strong>, a 1985 amendment to the Indian Act was discriminatory because it denied status to a person with one Indian parent born prior to <st1:date ls="trans" month="4" day="17" year="1985">April 17, 1985</st1:date>, and whose grandmother was Indian and grandfather was non-Indian. <o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>If the reverse were the case--i.e. the person's grandfather was Indian and the grandmother was non-Indian--the person would have status as an Indian under the Indian Act. <o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>"The discrimination in this case is the result of under-inclusive legislation," Groberman wrote. <o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>On June 2, Indian Affairs Minister <strong>Chuck Strahl</strong> <a href="http://www.ainc-inac.gc.ca/ai/mr/nr/m-a2009/nr000000339-eng.asp" target="_blank">announced</a> that the government wouldn't appeal the ruling and would amend the law. Gordon declared that his union will "remain vigilant to ensure that that the forthcoming amendments to the Indian Act reflect the spirit of McIvor’s appeal and the court’s decision". <o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>McIvor was supported by many groups during her struggle, including the <a href="http://www.nwac-hq.org/" target="_blank">Native Women's Association of Canada</a>. <o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>The B.C. Court of Appeal decision described McIvor's family history, which led to a peculiar circumstance. Until Strahl's announcement confirmed McIvor's victory, some of McIvor's grandchildren would have had Indian status and others wouldn't have qualified. <o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>McIvor had two non-Indian grandfathers. One grandmother had Indian status; the other was entitled to have status. <o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>Both of McIvor's parents were born out of wedlock to Indian mothers, who did not have status. <o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>McIvor married a non-Indian, which automatically deprived her of status. <o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>That's because under the Indian Act prior to the introduction of the charter's equality-rights section in 1985, an aboriginal woman who married a non-Indian male ceased to be an Indian under the law. The children from such a union were non-Indian as well. <o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>In 1985 after the equality-rights section came into force, the Indian Act was amended. Under the law, a child who has one Indian parent and a non-Indian parent is entitled to status unless the Indian parent has a non-Indian parent. <o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>In September 1985, McIvor applied for status on behalf of herself and her children with the Lower Nicola Band. She was granted status two years later, but it was denied to her kids. That's because McIvor had a non-Indian parent. <o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>She appealed and according to the BC. Court of Appeal decision, the registrar conceded that the decision couldn't stand. <o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>But there was still a problem. Her kids obtained status by virtue of McIvor's status. Her daughter was married to an Indian, so their kids would also have status. <o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>But McIvor's son, Charles Jacob Grismer, was married to a non-Indian. Under the law, his kids couldn't have status because they had one Indian parent and their grandfather was not male. <o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>McIvor and Grismer launched a constitutional challenge so that Grismer would be allowed to confer Indian status to his children. In 2007, they succeeded in B.C. Supreme Court; the federal government appealed. <o:p></o:p></p> <p>
<br /></p><p>The B.C. Court of Appeal upheld the lower court ruling, though it narrowed the terms somewhat. And now that the federal government is not appealing, Grismer's kids--who are McIvor's grandchildren--will have status under the Indian Act. </p> <span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);"></span></span>
<br />MetisMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03554425171029253662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5530703958326579110.post-9835842913351093022009-06-05T10:13:00.001-06:002009-06-05T10:16:18.537-06:00AFN Election for National Chief<meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CADMINI%7E1%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="Street"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="City"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="address"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="State"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="place"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="time"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="date"></o:smarttagtype><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} p {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} p.itemtext, li.itemtext, div.itemtext {mso-style-name:itemtext; mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p>2009 is an election year for the Assembly of First Nations. First Nations Chiefs from across the country will vote for the AFN National Chief at the AFN's 30th Annual General Assembly to be held in <st1:place><st1:city>Calgary</st1:city>, <st1:state>Alberta</st1:state></st1:place> from July 21-23. The voting begins on July 22. <o:p></o:p></p> <p>The AFN Charter and election rules are available on the AFN website at: <a href="http://www.afn.ca/article.asp?id=57">http://www.afn.ca/article.asp?id=57</a>
<br />(see Articles 20 -22 and Appendix "A" for relevant information). <o:p></o:p></p> <p>According to rules established under the AFN Charter, nominations for National Chief are open as of May 27 (eight weeks prior to the election) and close June 16 (five weeks prior to the election). <o:p></o:p></p> <p>Shortly after the close of nominations, the AFN will announce the official candidates for the 2009 AFN election for National Chief. </p><meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CADMINI%7E1%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="country-region"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="State"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="place"></o:smarttagtype><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Wingdings; panose-1:5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-charset:2; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:0 268435456 0 0 -2147483648 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} p {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} /* List Definitions */ @list l0 {mso-list-id:1747341949; mso-list-template-ids:2077102918;} @list l0:level1 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:; mso-level-tab-stop:.5in; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; font-family:Symbol;} ol {margin-bottom:0in;} ul {margin-bottom:0in;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p>The proposed candidates to succeed Fontaine are:<o:p></o:p></p> <ul type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Shawn Atleo, <st1:state><st1:place>British Columbia</st1:place></st1:state> regional chief.<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">John Beaucage, grand chief of the Union of Ontario Indians.<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Perry Bellegarde, former assembly vice-chief for <st1:state><st1:place>Saskatchewan</st1:place></st1:state>.<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Terrance Nelson, chief of Roseau River First Nation in <st1:state><st1:place>Manitoba</st1:place></st1:state>.<o:p></o:p></li></ul> <p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><b style="">Perry Bellegarde,</b> former Grand Chief of the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations and former Regional Vice Chief for the Assembly of First Nations. <a href="http://www.perrybellegarde.com/" target="_blank">www.perrybellegarde.com</a></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p>
<br /></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style="">
<br /></b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo</b> has made innumerous contributions to the political field within his community, amongst First Nations, and in/between local, provincial, national, and international governments. Shawn is a hereditary chief of Ahousaht Nation. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.shawnatleo.com/meetshawn.htm">http://www.shawnatleo.com/meetshawn.htm</a></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style="">
<br /></b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Grand Council Chief John Beaucage</b> was elected to serve the 42-member First Nations of the Anishinabek Nation. John was re-elected in 2006, by acclamation, a rare occurrence in the history of one of <st1:country-region><st1:place>Canada</st1:place></st1:country-region>’s oldest political organizations.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://johnbeaucage.com/biography.asp">http://johnbeaucage.com/biography.asp</a></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style="">
<br /></b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Chief Terry Nelson</b> An outspoken and controversial <st1:state><st1:place>Manitoba</st1:place></st1:state> chief is throwing his name in the race to replace outgoing Assembly of First Nations national chief Phil Fontaine. There appears to be no website with his campaign attached.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="itemtext"><b>Proposed All Candidates Forum<o:p></o:p></b></p> <p class="itemtext"><b>What: </b>All-Candidates Forum for AFN National Chief Election
<br />
<br /><b>When: </b><st1:date year="2009" day="4" month="6">Thursday <st1:date ls="trans" month="6" day="4" year="2009">June 4, 2009</st1:date></st1:date>; <st1:time minute="0" hour="13"><st1:time hour="13" minute="00">1:00 PM</st1:time>-3:00 PM</st1:time> Pacific
<br />
<br /><b>Where:</b> Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites <st1:city><st1:place>Vancouver</st1:place></st1:city>, Downtown <st1:address><st1:street>1110 Howe Street</st1:street>, <st1:city>Vancouver</st1:city> <st1:state>BC</st1:state></st1:address><o:p></o:p></p> MetisMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03554425171029253662noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5530703958326579110.post-47137664606124036372009-05-27T08:51:00.001-06:002009-05-27T08:54:58.860-06:00Bill C-8: Family Homes on Reserves and Matrimonial Interests or Rights Act<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.ainc-inac.gc.ca/ai/mr/nr/m-a2009/nr000000335-eng.asp">http://www.ainc-inac.gc.ca/ai/mr/nr/m-a2009/nr000000335-eng.asp</a></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><b><span style="font-family:"Verdana","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-Times New Roman";font-family:";color:black;">Ottawa, Ontario (May 25, 2009) </span></b><span style="font-family:"Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";mso-bidi-Times New Roman"; font-family:";color:black;">- The following statement was released by the Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, on Bill C-8:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana;"><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto"><span style="font-family:"Verdana","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-Times New Roman";font-family:";color:black;">“I am extremely pleased that this piece of legislation, of great importance to First Nations women and children, was not thrown aside yesterday by a Hoist Motion from the Official Opposition. Bill C-8 will now get the discussion it deserves in the House of Commons.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto"><span style="font-family:"Verdana","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-Times New Roman";font-family:";color:black;">“There is a lot of misinformation spread about Bill C-8 by those who seek to block this reform, which is long overdue.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto"><span style="font-family:"Verdana","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-Times New Roman";font-family:";color:black;">“The truth is that Bill C-8, the proposed <i>Family Homes on Reserves and Matrimonial Interests or Rights Act</i>, provides First Nations communities the very thing they are seeking: the mechanism to enact their own culturally relevant laws without any involvement by the federal government.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto"><span style="font-family:"Verdana","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-Times New Roman";font-family:";color:black;">“The Bill also ensures that, in the interim, as communities develop their own laws, families will be immediately protected from the legal void that has existed for too long.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto"><span style="font-family:"Verdana","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-Times New Roman";font-family:";color:black;">“More than 100 consultation sessions were held to give organizations such as the Assembly of First Nations and the Native Women's Association of Canada ample opportunity to provide input and feedback. Numerous studies have been undertaken on the subject of matrimonial real property rights, and committees from both the House of Commons and the Senate have recommended that immediate action be taken. It is time to act.”<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto"><b><span style="font-family:"Verdana","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-Times New Roman";font-family:";color:black;">For more information, please contact:</span></b><span style="font-family:"Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";mso-bidi-Times New Roman"; font-family:";color:black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto"><b><span style="font-family:"Verdana","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-Times New Roman";font-family:";color:black;">Minister's Office</span></b><span style="font-family:"Verdana","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-Times New Roman";font-family:";color:black;"><br />Ted Yeomans<br />Office of the Honourable Chuck Strahl<br />(819) 997-0002<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 51, 153); font-family: Verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto"><span style="font-family:"Verdana","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-Times New Roman";font-family:";color:black;"><span style="color:#003399;"><a href="http://www.ainc-inac.gc.ca/br/mrp/ip/bkg-eng.asp?p1=913015&p2=1064244">Backgrounder - Family Homes on Reserves and Matrimonial Interests or Rights Act</a></span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 48px;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="Verdana","sans-serif";font-family:";"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">For most Canadian couples undergoing a breakdown of their conjugal relationship, there is legal protection to ensure that assets of the marriage are distributed equitably between them. Such is not the case, however, for couples living in communities governed by the</span></span><em><span style="Verdana","sans-serif"font-family:";"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);"> Indian Act</span></span></span></em><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">. For either one of them, relationship breakdown could end in homelessness.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);"><br /></span></p><p><span style="Verdana","sans-serif";font-family:";"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">The reason is simple: the</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);"> </span></span></span><em><span style="Verdana","sans-serif"font-family:";"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">Indian Act</span></span></span></em><span class="apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">is silent on the issue of matrimonial real property rights and provincial/territorial laws relating to this issue cannot be applied on reserves. The resulting legislative gap continues to affect women, children, and families living on reserves.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);"><br /></span></p><p><span style="Verdana","sans-serif";font-family:";"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">On March 4, 2008, Bill C-47, the proposed Family Homes on Reserves and Matrimonial Interests or Rights Act was introduced. Bill C-47 has been referred to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, which is expected to begin its study of the bill in fall 2008. With the introduction of the Family Homes on Reserves and Matrimonial Interests or Rights Act, the Government of Canada is taking practical, concrete measures to remedy an unacceptable situation that cannot be allowed to continue.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);"><br /></span></p><p><span style="Verdana","sans-serif";font-family:";"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">This bill follows a comprehensive, collaborative consultation process with the Native Women's Association of Canada and the Assembly of First Nations. The consultation process was overseen by the Ministerial Representative, Wendy Grant-John, who was tasked to report back with a recommended legislative solution.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);"><br /></span></p><p><span style="Verdana","sans-serif";font-family:";"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">After undertaking nationwide consultations and dialogue sessions and hearing from First Nation members, leaders and regional and national organizations, as well as provinces and territories, the parties entered into a consensus-building phase. While arriving at a consensus on a legislative model proved to be a challenge, some shared principles emerged as priorities. These included the urgency to remedy this situation, the need to balance individual rights and the collective rights of First Nation communities, and the need for First Nations to exercise law-making powers over matrimonial real property in developing their own community-specific laws.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);"><br /></span></p><p><span style="Verdana","sans-serif";font-family:";"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">Over the summer and early fall of 2007, the federal government shared and worked together with the Assembly of First Nations, the Native Women's Association of Canada, the Ministerial Representative, Wendy Grant-John, and the provinces and territories, on a draft legislative solution regarding on-reserve matrimonial real property. All of those involved in the sharing process had opportunities to ensure their views and concerns were raised, and the bill is much improved as a result.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);"><br /></span></p><p><span style="Verdana","sans-serif";font-family:";"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">The legislation consists of a substantive federal matrimonial real property regime combined with a mechanism for First Nations to develop their own matrimonial real property laws. The federal regime will fill the legislative gap on reserves until such a time as First Nations develop their own laws on matrimonial real property. If passed by Parliament, the bill will come into force on a day or days to be fixed by order of the Governor in Council.</span></span><o:p></o:p></span></p>MetisMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03554425171029253662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5530703958326579110.post-28983673849136076942009-05-26T15:44:00.002-06:002009-05-26T15:50:50.969-06:00First Part of Métis Rights Trial Concludes Next Phase of Trial Set To Start in Fall 2009<div>Medicine Hat, AB (May 12, 2009) – After seven days of testimony from Métis community witnesses from throughout the province, Alberta’s first Métis harvesting rights trial – R. v. Jones, Bates and Hirsekorn – adjourned today until the Fall of 2009.</div><div><br /></div><div>The trial involves three Métis harvesters who were charged for hunting without a license, as a part of traditional Métis hunts near the Cypress Hills and Pincher Creek in the fall of 2007. These Métis harvesters are defending themselves based on the constitutionally protected harvesting right of the Métis in Alberta. The harvesting rights of the Métis were recognized in 2003 in a landmark decision from the Supreme Court of Canada in R. v. Powley.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Since May 4th, the Alberta Provincial Court in Medicine Hat has heard first-hand evidence about Métis culture, harvesting, way of life, mobility and kinship connections throughout Alberta. Métis witnesses provided testimony about locations across Alberta, including, Cypress Hills, Pincher Creek, Calgary, Sundre, Tail Creek, Grand Prairie, Rocky Mountain House, High Prairie, Edmonton, Fort Saskatchewan, Lac St. Anne, Lac La Biche, Bonnyville, Elizabeth Métis Settlement, Buffalo Lake Métis Settlement. As well, witnesses testified about Métis mobility and connections to Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Montana.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>“While the Métis Nation is disappointed with the Alberta Government’s denial of Métis rights, we are pleased to be moving forward on having our rights recognized in the courts,” said Audrey Poitras, President of the Métis Nation of Alberta. “Through this trial, our people have the wonderful opportunity to share our often untold story in our own voices. We look forward to having our constitutional rights recognized by the courts.”</div><div><br /></div><div>Poitras added, “Based on this case, the Alberta Government will no longer be able to deny Métis rights exist in Alberta or take the position that Métis do not need to be consulted and accommodated on development occurring throughout this province. Government and industry need to be aware of the potential impacts flowing from Ted Morton forcing Métis into the courts.”</div><div><br /></div><div>The trial is expected to take another 7 weeks of court time and to be finished in early 2010. The next phase of the trial is set to begin in mid-September 2009 when expert witnesses will provide testimony on the Métis of the Northwest, the fur trade, Métis genealogy and Métis culture. </div><div><br /></div><div>Additional Métis community witnesses will also be called in the Fall of 2009, including, the MNA President Audrey Poitras, the MNA Registrar and Métis community witnesses from northern, central and southern Alberta.</div><div><br /></div><div>For more information about the case and Métis harvesting in Alberta visit <a href="http://www.albertametis.com/MNAHome/Home.aspx">http://www.albertametis.com/MNAHome/Home.aspx</a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>MetisMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03554425171029253662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5530703958326579110.post-31018577016803829142009-05-21T11:25:00.005-06:002009-05-21T11:30:11.619-06:00AFN National Chief “Deeply Disappointed” that Flawed Legislation on Matrimonial Real Property (Bill C-8) May Proceed<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(163, 1, 1); font-weight: bold; font-family:Arial;"><a href="http://www.afn.ca/article.asp?id=4514"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">http://www.afn.ca/article.asp?id=4514</span></a></span><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(163, 1, 1); font-weight: bold;font-family:Arial;font-size:12px;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(163, 1, 1); font-weight: bold;font-family:Arial;font-size:12px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-weight: normal; "><p>Assembly of First Nations National Chief Phil Fontaine expressed his deep disappointment today that a motion to “hoist” Bill C-8 did not receive wide support in the House of Commons.</p><p><br /></p><p>“I am deeply disappointed that, in spite of a motion by the Liberal Party to hoist Bill C-8, the other parties did not use this opportunity to reject this deeply flawed legislation,” National Chief Fontaine said. “This is not about partisan politics. This is about doing the right thing for First Nations families. This is about our human rights.”</p><p><br /></p><p>Bill C-8 deals with the division of matrimonial real property (MRP) on-reserve when relationships break down. “Hoisting” the Bill would take it off the parliamentary agenda. In its place the Federal government should enable First Nations to build the capacity to properly develop a meaningful process and alternate approach that respects First Nations jurisdiction and existing First Nations processes respecting MRP.</p><p><br /></p><p>Bill C-8 has received strong opposition from First Nations, including the Native Women’s Association of Canada, the AFN Women’s Council and First Nations across the country. The Bill itself also runs contrary to the recommendations provided by the Minister of Indian Affairs’ own appointed Ministerial Representative on MRP, Wendy Grant John, who held nation-wide consultations with First Nations women and concluded that unilateral imposed federal legislation is not the answer.</p><p><br /></p><p>AFN Women’s Council Chair Kathleen McHugh stated, “Bill C-8 does not work. All Bill C-8 does is force families into provincial courts. This is not a solution. For many families it is unaffordable and it will also force families in remote communities to endure long waiting periods before their case can be heard, if they can even make it to a court.”</p><p><br /></p><p>Bill C-8 has serious flaws and could be subject to legal challenges because the government did not meet its duty to consult and the bill itself infringes on First Nations rights. The National Chief stated that First Nations and all those who support First Nations families and First Nations rights should be working to ensure the Bill does not become law.</p><p><br /></p><p>“Our people did not create this problem,” said the National Chief. “The federal government created this problem by imposing the Indian Act on First Nations. The solution is not impose more flawed legislation on First Nations, but to work with us in partnership on real solutions that protect First Nations families and respect First Nations rights. This legislation and its approach runs contrary to the commitment of the Government and parliamentarians to the spirit and intent of the June 11, 2008 apology to First Nations for the Indian residential school policy. This Bill is nothing short of continued imposition and paternalism. A number of First Nations have already developed approaches to MRP that are fully supported by their communities. This is the way to go. We need capacity within our communities to deal with this important matter. It is unfortunate we may have to use our energies to fight bad legislation instead of using it to work together on real solutions.”</p><p><br /></p><p> </p><p>The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada.</p><p><br /></p><p> </p><p>For further information: Karyn Pugliese, Health Communications, (613) 292-1877,<a href="http://www.afn.ca/mailtkpugliese@afn.ca" style="color: rgb(0, 51, 102); ">kpugliese@afn.ca</a></p></span></span></div>MetisMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03554425171029253662noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5530703958326579110.post-86032314036440966942009-05-15T11:50:00.000-06:002009-05-15T12:15:03.287-06:00What happened to those National Métis Health Dollars?Well folks I think we seen a small glimpse of how Health Canada is going to deal with the proverbial health dollars.<br /><br />Just to refresh your memories – there were many posts about the Métis Health dollars and it has potentially destroyed the relationship between the Board of Governors at Métis National Council. Some of the Board of Governors requested that there be regional agreements developed so that each provisional representative organization would be directly responsible for their programs, bursaries and also be able to build capacity.<br /><br />David Chartrand did not want that – he wanted the 10 million dollars to be under his control and so the fight began.<br /><br />Now several years later – we have the Métis National Council struggling to find a way to be accountable for the money they spent which did not go where it should have and dealing with a significant deficit as a result of their inability to be accountable. The Board of Governors has only had one meeting since February 2008 and the communication between them is non existent.<br />In spite of all of that …. The regional Provincial Métis Organizations are flourishing based on today’s press announcement…<br /><br /><a href="http://www.mpcbc.bc.ca/pdf/MNBC%20Reg%20Coor%20Press%20Release_May%2014%202009-1.pdf">http://www.mpcbc.bc.ca/pdf/MNBC%20Reg%20Coor%20Press%20Release_May%2014%202009-1.pdf</a><br /><br /><strong>Métis in British Columbia to benefit from Health Canada’s Aboriginal Health Transition Fund<br /></strong><br />VANCOUVER (May 14, 2009) – Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) President and Minister Responsible for Health Bruce Dumont is pleased to announce the addition of five new staff to the MNBC Ministry of Health. Five Regional Health Coordinators join the team today, funded through Health Canada’s Aboriginal Health Transition Fund, under the Province’s Adaptation Plan.<br /><br />The Regional Health Coordinators are geographically aligned with the five Regional Health Authorities in British Columbia. The part-time Coordinators will work with Métis Chartered Communities, Métis Nation British Columbia and the Health Authorities to establish or further build relationships, increase community capacity and facilitate improved access to existing health programs and services for Métis people across British Columbia.<br /><br />MNBC President and Minister Responsible for Health Bruce Dumont expressed his excitement for this work, “Métis people in British Columbia have fell between the cracks within the British Columbia healthcare system for many years.<br /><br />This program is the first of its kind for Métis people in BC. Our Regional Health Coordinators will be able to provide much needed support to each of our communities and educate health policy makers about the health status of Métis people in this Province”.<br /><br />Director of Health Tanya Davoren shared Minister Dumont’s perspective, “Métis Chartered Communities in British Columbia are run by volunteers who work tirelessly to promote Métis history and culture and to develop and administer programs and services. Having paid staff available in the community will greatly increase capacity in each Métis Chartered Community and provide an opportunity for Métis people to play an active part in improving their own health<br />status.”<br /><br />The Regional Health Coordinators commence their new role today and will be working in communities by next week. The five part-time Regional Health Coordinators join Director of Health Tanya Davoren, Program Assistant Tresley Tourond-Bouvier and Chronic Disease Surveillance Program Manager Dr Peter Hutchinson in the MNBC Ministry of Health.<br /><br />Métis Nation British Columbia is the representative governing organization of Métis people in British Columbia. MNBC works on behalf of 59 445 (2006 Census) Métis people in British Columbia. MNBC was created in 1996 and continues to evolve today. MNBC has three levels of Métis Nation governance, thirty-six (36) Métis Chartered Communities, seven (7) Regional Governance Councils, and a provincially elected Board of Directors. Since 2003 the MNBC leadership has implemented a number of institutions of governance including the Senate, Métis Nation Governing Assembly, Youth representation, and Women’s representation.<br /><br />Please visit www.mnbc.ca to learn more about Métis Nation British Columbia.<br /><br /><br />For further information please contact:<br />Tanya Davoren<br />Director of Health and Sport<br />Métis Nation British Columba<br />1-800-940-1150<br />tdavoren@mnbc.caMetisMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03554425171029253662noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5530703958326579110.post-29525239182371486242009-05-15T10:59:00.002-06:002009-05-15T11:50:09.977-06:00Bill C-8 and the Controversy<strong><span style="color:#006600;">Bill C-8 and the Controversy</span><br /></strong><br /><a href="http://www.liberal.ca/story_15824_e.aspx">http://www.liberal.ca/story_15824_e.aspx</a><br /><br /><strong>Harper government ignoring Aboriginal communities on Bill C-8</strong><br /><br />OTTAWA – Liberals are calling on the Harper Conservatives to delay the passage of Bill C-8 after the government failed to properly consult First Nations governments in the development of the bill. Bill C-8 concerns the division of real property on First Nations reserve lands when couples separate.<br /><br />“We do not question the need for legislation to address the very real problems when family breakdown occurs for Canadians living on reserve,” said Liberal Aboriginal Affairs Critic Todd Russell. “However, the Conservative government failed in its constitutional duty to consult First Nations in the development of this bill.<br /><br />“We believe this bill should be deferred for six months so that the government can properly consult First Nations communities on what changes they believe are necessary. The bill in its current form imposes a default law on First Nations communities, without ensuring that First Nations have the resources or capacity to develop their own codes. First Nations are rightly upset by this.”<br /><br />The Native Women’s Association of Canada (NWAC) and the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) have been highly critical of the Conservative bill, arguing that the government is attempting to impose a “one size fits all” solution on a diverse group of more than 600 First Nations communities, each with its unique needs, said Mr. Russell.<br /><br />“First Nations women’s groups have specific concerns with this bill, which is why the government needs to take a second look,” he said. “For example, their bill mandates that ‘verification officers’ play an active role in the development and approval of local matrimonial real estate property regimes. First Nations see this as an insulting throwback to the use of Indian Agents.<br /><br />“We’re saying to the Harper government, let’s take the bill off the table so that Aboriginal communities can be properly consulted about these matters. Their concerns cannot be dismissed, and the government should take the time and the steps to do things right,” Mr. Russell said.<br /><br /><span style="color:#006600;">This is a joint press release from NWAC, AFN and the AFN Women’s Council<br /></span><br /><a href="http://www.nwac-hq.org/en/index.html">http://www.nwac-hq.org/en/index.html</a><br /><br /><br />Press Release – For Immediate Release<br /><br />NWAC, AFN and AFN Women’s Council<br /><br /><strong>Unite to Oppose Bill C8 on Matrimonial Real Property</strong><br /><br />Ottawa, ON (May 14, 2009) – Today the Native Women’s Association of Canada (NWAC), the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) and the AFN Women’s Council united to express their opposition to the federal Bill C8,<br /><br />An act respecting family homes situatedon First Nation reserves and matrimonial interests or rights in or to structures and lands situated on those reserves.<br /><br />NWAC and the AFN (including the AFN Women’s Council), all agree that Bill C8<br />Will do nothing to solve the problems associated with Matrimonial Real Property (MRP) onreserve; that the federal government failed in its duty to consult and accommodate the views of First Nations; and, as a result, the Bill is fatally flawed and cannot be fixed. It should not proceed to committee.<br /><br />NWAC President Beverley Jacobs says NWAC held meetings with Aboriginal women prior to the introduction of Bill C47 and produced a “Peoples Report” that included a<br />number of solutions to address MRP. Bill C47, the predecessor to Bill C8, and this Bill,<br />C8, ignore all of those recommendations.<br /><br />“Aboriginal women, who we met with and who were directly affected by the lack of legal recourse of MRP, stated over and over again that their voices needed to be included in the creation of any legislation,” said NWAC President Jacobs. “They also highlighted non-legislative solutions for the short, medium and long term. We need to ensure that the voices of the women that we talked to are heard and that their solutions are implemented. The resources are needed to implement the non-legislative solutions as soon as possible.”<br /><br />AFN Women’s Council Chair Kathleen McHugh agrees that there was no effective consultation process. She added that Bill C8 also ignores the recommendations of the Minister of Indian Affairs’ own Ministerial Representative on MRP, Wendy Grant John, who tabled a report stating that unilateral imposed federal legislation is not the answer.<br /><br />The organizations are in agreement that Bill C8 is a one dimensional approach to a<br />complex problem that does not address the real issues in communities.<br /><br />“All Bill C8 does is force families into provincial courts. This is not a solution. For many families it’s unaffordable and it will also force families in remote communities to endure long waiting periods before their case can be heard,” said the Chair of the AFN Women Council. President Jacobs agrees, and states that, “I am also deeply concerned that Bill C8 will put women who are experiencing family violence at further risk by forcing them to wait long periods for justice without adequate social supports, services or shelters.”<br /><br />National Chief Phil Fontaine added that it is unlikely that the strict parameters imposed on First Nations will allow communities to create solutions that reflect their traditional laws, cultures and realities, including geographic remoteness, lack of access to the court system, inability to afford lawyers, overcrowding and multiple family homes and a lack of emergency shelters.<br /><br />“A number of First Nations have already taken a proactive approach to this issue and have worked with their communities to develop rules and policies related to MRP. Under<br />Bill C8, the flawed federal approach will be imposed on First Nations and these existing<br />Community based solutions could be struck down and replaced. This is not democratic, it is inconsistent with the values of First Nations and Canadians, and only serves to do more harm to First Nations families,” said AFN National Chief Phil Fontaine.<br /><br />The AFN and NWAC believe that the legislation attempts to pit the individual rights of women against the collective rights of First Nations people. Both organizations expressed disappointment with this tactic and do not support this approach. President Jacobs, the National Chief and Chair McHugh stressed the importance of acknowledging and respecting the role of women and mothers in First Nations families, communities and Nations and ensuring that their voices are sought and accommodated within the context of this role.<br /><br />The Native Women’s Association of Canada and the Assembly of First Nations, including their Women’s Council agree that Bill C8 should be scrapped in favour of a new approach. This may include non-legislative measures such as local dispute resolution processes and community based solutions. The urgent need for housing, counseling services and emergency shelters on reserve must also be addressed.<br /><br />NWAC President Jacobs added “Aboriginal women, girls and children continue to be subjected to violence and are often forced to leave their homes and communities to be safe. Aboriginal women have consistently stated that they want safe communities where they, their children and future generations can live. Above all else, any resolution needs to ensure that this happens.”<br /><br />The resolution of MRP matters requires collaborative efforts between the federal government and First Nations. Solutions must address the root causes of the poor socioeconomic conditions faced by First Nations couples that contribute to MRP issues.<br /><br />The Native Women’s Association of Canada is an aggregate of 13 native women’s organizations and is the national voice of Aboriginal women in Canada.<br />The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada.<br /><br />The AFN Women’s Council ensures the perspectives of First Nations’ women are included in all AFN policy directives and activities, as well as ensuring that the AFN is an effective advocate on behalf of First Nations women.<br /><br /><br /><br /><strong>Statement - Bill C-8: Family Homes on Reserves and Matrimonial Interests or Rights Act</strong><br /><br /><a href="http://www.ainc-inac.gc.ca/ai/mr/nr/m-a2009/nr000000328-eng.asp">http://www.ainc-inac.gc.ca/ai/mr/nr/m-a2009/nr000000328-eng.asp</a><br /><br />Ottawa, Ontario (May 14, 2009) - The following statement was released by the Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians:<br /><br />“Today, the Liberal Party moved a motion that will effectively kill Bill C-8, which is designed to protect the rights of women and children living on reserve. I am deeply disappointed that the Liberals would be prepared to prevent the passage of Bill C-8 and leave untold numbers of First Nations women and children without the protection of the courts at a time when they most need it.<br /><br />The proposed legislation would provide legal protection to both members of a common law or marital relationship in the event of a breakdown of their marriage, divorce or death. Bill C-8 responds to national and international calls for action and change. The bill is the result of over 100 extensive consultation sessions held throughout the country. It is shameful that the Liberals are trying to derail a bill that would provide a solution to an intolerable legislative gap.<br /><br />Bill C-8 is a landmark piece of legislation. For the first time ever, the Government is taking significant steps to provide First Nation leaders with the opportunity to develop their own culturally appropriate laws. The federal government would no longer be involved. First Nation leaders will only be accountable to those most directly affected by the law, namely their own constituents.<br /><br />The proposed Family Homes on Reserves and Matrimonial Interests or Rights Act fills the legislative gap by providing women, children and families with immediate protections and rights. Delaying its passage will only exacerbate the ongoing injustice facing some of the most vulnerable members of Canadian society.”<br /><br />For more information, please contact:<br />Minister's Office<br />Ted Yeomans<br />Office of the Honourable Chuck Strahl<br />(819) 997-0002MetisMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03554425171029253662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5530703958326579110.post-12165541775149461492009-05-13T06:46:00.000-06:002009-05-13T06:47:07.792-06:00First part of Métis hunting trial endsFirst part of Métis hunting trial ends<br /><br />http://www.medicinehatnews.com/content/view/99578/65/<br /><br />ALEX MCCUAIG<br />amccuaig@medicinehatnews.com<br /><br />After seven days of testimony from Métis community members in a Medicine Hat provincial courtroom filled with maps, the first session in the trial of three men accused of hunting without a license has come to an end.<br />Métis witnesses from Lac la Biche, Bonneyville, Manyberries, Medicine Hat, Pincher Creek and other Alberta municipalities described how they and their families have hunted in the province for decades. Many could trace their backgrounds to 1885 North West Rebellion battlefields such as Duck Lake, Batoche and Cut Knife.<br /><br />Garry Hirsekorn, Ron Jones and Bruce Bates all currently stand charged with hunting without a license.<br /><br />While the three self-described Métis men on trial have admitted to hunting without a license during a protest hunt in late 2007, they are arguing they had the constitutional right to do so.<br /><br />The Alberta government contends the three accused do not meet the conditions of the Powley Decision — a Supreme Court ruling which gives a legal framework for identifying who is Metis and therefore where they can hunt.<br /><br />In 2003, the Supreme Court ruled that Metis across Canada have the constitutional right to fish, hunt and gather food without a license.<br /><br />However, in January 2007, the Alberta government restricted harvesting rights to areas within a radius of eight recognized Metis settlements and 17 communities.<br /><br />None was south of Edmonton.<br /><br />Outside the courtroom, the men’s lawyer, Jean Teillet, said the goal of the trial is to see the accused’s aboriginal rights acknowledged.<br /><br />“On one level it is about proving Métis have hunting rights. On another, it’s about getting some recognition for Métis people in Canada.”<br /><br />Teillet said the government has no problem giving that recognition in the same way they do other ethnic groups but, “the idea the Métis have aboriginal rights to use the land in a different way, they resist that.”<br /><br />She expects if the men win their case, the province won’t look to appeal due to the fact higher court decisions will have a binding effect on other provinces.<br /><br />The Crown attorney arguing the province’s case, Thomas Rothwell, said the prosecution is about the issue of Métis rights in southern Alberta.<br /><br />“It’s the central issue and the court will have to make a ruling on that. When the ruling comes out we’ll study it carefully.”<br /><br />Four more sessions are scheduled between September and January with a decision expected to be rendered by May 2010.MetisMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03554425171029253662noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5530703958326579110.post-40151000988391382502009-05-12T20:47:00.001-06:002009-05-12T20:49:40.722-06:00The Tar Sands and the Impact on the Aboriginal Community<meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CADMINI%7E1%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="State"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="City"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="place"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="phone"></o:smarttagtype><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"lucida grande"; panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-alt:"Times New Roman"; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:roman; mso-font-format:other; mso-font-pitch:auto; mso-font-signature:0 0 0 0 0 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} h1 {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; mso-outline-level:1; font-size:24.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} span.posttitle {mso-style-name:posttitle;} span.apple-style-span {mso-style-name:apple-style-span;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <h1><span class="posttitle">For Immediate Release-Regulate the tar sands and uphold treaty and human rights to water</span><o:p></o:p></h1> <p class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://indigenist.blogspot.com/2009/05/for-immediate-release-regulate-tar.html">http://indigenist.blogspot.com/2009/05/for-immediate-release-regulate-tar.html</a></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style=";font-family:";" >For Immediate Release</span></span><span style=";font-family:";" >
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<br /><span class="apple-style-span">Community Groups Send Strong Message to Feds:</span>
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<br /><span class="apple-style-span">Regulate the tar sands and uphold treaty and human rights to water</span>
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<br /><span class="apple-style-span">May 12th, 2009 (Edmonton, AB)- The House of Commons Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development begins its formal hearing on the impacts on Water by the Tar Sands Extraction today in Edmonton. Concerned community members, union representatives, non-government organizations and First Nations have gathered together outside the Hearings to send a strong message to the commissioners of the hearings.</span>
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<br /><span class="apple-style-span">“Water is sacred to the Aboriginal people of the land and we want a voice!,” said Alice Martin, an Aboriginal grassroots community member from the </span></span><st1:city><st1:place><span class="apple-style-span"><span style=";font-family:";" >Fort McMurray</span></span></st1:place></st1:city><span class="apple-style-span"><span style=";font-family:";" > region.</span></span><span style=";font-family:";" >
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<br /><span class="apple-style-span">“The Federal government has a fiduciary responsibility to uphold its treaty obligations and consult on a Nation to Nation basis with First Nations, regarding infrastructure projects built within their traditional territories,” said Eriel Deranger Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation member and Rainforest Action Network Campaigner.</span>
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<br /><span class="apple-style-span">Since March 2009 the Environment Committee has been discussing water and the tar sands, the process however has excluded the voices of many communities impacted by Tar Sands extraction in particular the Unions, the up-grader communities, farmers, grassroots First Nations, and those living in the development zones.</span>
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<br /><span class="apple-style-span">“Tar Sands development is more than just the mine sites, it is the whole infrastructure needed to refine the tar sands into usable crude. This includes the lines of pipe, and the development of Upgraders, far beyond the boundaries of </span></span><st1:state><st1:place><span class="apple-style-span"><span style=";font-family:";" >Alberta</span></span></st1:place></st1:state><span class="apple-style-span"><span style=";font-family:";" >, which have huge consequences for water and the fertility of the land.” explains Barb Collier a farmer from </span></span><st1:state><st1:place><span class="apple-style-span"><span style=";font-family:";" >Alberta</span></span></st1:place></st1:state><span class="apple-style-span"><span style=";font-family:";" >'s Industrial Heartland. “The federal government needs to know that their decisions to regulate tar sands is going to have far reaching impacts right across this country.”</span></span><span style=";font-family:";" >
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<br /><span class="apple-style-span">“Tar Sands are not just contaminating the Athabasca River, they are contaminating the whole Athabasca/Mackenzie watershed; a watershed which is estimated to house 1/5th of Canada’s fresh water resources!” emphasizes Harvey Scott a representative of Keepers of the Athabasca Watershed Council, “With an estimated 11 million liters of toxic chemicals leaking daily from the tailing lakes, there is definitely a federal responsibility to ensure action is taken on tar sands to uphold both treaty and human rights to water are respected.</span>
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<br /><span class="apple-style-span">Today’s events are supported by the Indigenous Environmental Network, Council of Canadians, Sierra Club Prairie Chapter, Greenpeace and the Rainforest Action Network, highlighting the growing coalition effort byFirst Nations, provincial community groups and national organizations to draw attention to the devastating impacts of tar sands development.</span>
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<br /><span class="apple-style-span">Adding to today's event, there will be a public forum at 7pm at the Trans Alta Art Barn where Fort Chipewyan Chief Allan Adam and Francois Paulette - Member, Fort Fitzgerald First Nation will be leading a discussion around the impacts of the tar sands</span>
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<br /><span class="apple-style-span">For more information, or to arrange interviews, please contact:</span>
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<br /><span class="apple-style-span">Connie Bresnahan, Keepers of the Athabasca Watershed Council - (780) 816- 0654 <a href="mailto:athabasca.bio.soc@hotmail.com">athabasca.bio.soc@hotmail.com</a><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style=";font-family:";" >Eriel Deranger, Rainforest Action Network and Member of Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation - </span></span><st1:phone o_x003a_ls="trans" phonenumber="$6785$"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style=";font-family:";" >(587) </span></span><st1:phone o_x003a_ls="trans" phonenumber="$6785$"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style=";font-family:";" >785-1558</span></span></st1:phone></st1:phone><span class="apple-style-span"><span style=";font-family:";" > <a href="mailto:ederanger@ran.org">ederanger@ran.org</a><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> MetisMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03554425171029253662noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5530703958326579110.post-88530224452942170002009-05-12T16:24:00.001-06:002009-05-12T16:25:59.840-06:00Metis Trial moved to living roomMedicine Hat News<div>May 12, 2009</div><div><br /></div><div><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="apple-style-span"><b><span style="font-size:18.0pt; font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black">Trial moved to living room</span><o:p></o:p></b></span><b></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="font-size:13.0pt; font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black">ALEX MCCUAIG</span></span><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black"><br /><span class="apple-style-span"><a href="mailto:amccuaig@medicinehatnews.com"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;color:#047391;text-decoration:none;text-underline:none">amccuaig@medicinehatnews.com</span></a></span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="font-size:13.0pt; font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";color:black">In a scene not likely to be repeated in Medicine Hat court history, a judge, stenographer, clerk, News reporter and four lawyers crowded into a witness’ small living room to hear testimony Monday afternoon.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; color:black">It was a fitting scene for the trial of three Métis men charged with breaking provincial hunting regulations that has so far focused on history while trying to make it as well.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black"><br /></span><span style="font-size:13.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black">In Monday’s hearing, Métis elder Henry Aaker, 79 – testifying from his home due to a medical condition – told the court how his home was once part of a thriving community called Saratoga Park.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black"><br /></span><span style="font-size:13.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black">The house – hidden away as much as a home could be in a city of 60,000 – lies along a bike trial which follows Seven Persons Creek between Dunmore Road and Scholten Hill. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black"><br /></span><span style="font-size:13.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black">In an almost surreal scene, the court entered the four metre by seven metre home surrounded by a corral in disrepair, abandoned garden, several vehicles and sheds.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black"><br /></span><span style="font-size:13.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black">“You said four (people) not 44,” said Aaker in a comical moment as the courtroom entered his home.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black"><br /></span><span style="font-size:13.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black">Depending on the source, the home is the last of a “half-breed colony” or squatters community which once had at least 20 to 30 homes stretching from Dunmore Road to the South Saskatchewan River.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black"><br /></span><span style="font-size:13.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black">In the cramped living room with the walls filled with family photos and First Nations as well as Western artwork, Aaker testified with a bowl of potato chips and glass of cola in front of him. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black"><br /></span><span style="font-size:13.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black">He testified that he moved to Saratoga Park from Montana when he was three weeks old after his parents split up.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black"><br /></span><span style="font-size:13.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black">The lawyer for the accused, Jason Madden, asked Aaker what life was like growing up in Saratoga Park.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black"><br /></span><span style="font-size:13.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black">“A picnic,” he responded.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black"><br /></span><span style="font-size:13.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black">“Everybody had a lot of fun.”<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black"><br /></span><span style="font-size:13.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black">He went on to describe group social events within the community that included music played with violins, guitars and banjos while people danced the jig. He told the court about being married in a nearby church and went to Elm Street School.</span><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black"><br /></span><span style="font-size:13.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black">Aaker said at the Elm Street School there would be numerous fights with other children.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black"><br /></span><span style="font-size:13.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black">“Kids would get smart and pretty soon you’d be battling it out,” Aaker said.</span><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";color:black"><br /></span><span style="font-size:13.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black">“Smart about what?” asked Madden.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; color:black"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="font-size:13.0pt; font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black">“They’d be calling you half-breeds. After they got a few lickings, they’d smarten up.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"; color:black"><br /><span class="apple-style-span">Madden went on to ask what had happened to the other homes in the area.</span><br /><span class="apple-style-span">“When the people died off, they would come in with a bulldozer, clean it up, bury the stuff and that would be the end of it,” Aaker responded.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"; color:black"><br /><span class="apple-style-span">“Why would they do that?” Madden asked.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"; color:black"><br /><span class="apple-style-span">“I don’t know.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"; color:black"><br /><span class="apple-style-span">Pointing towards the top of Scholten Hill, Aaker testified that is where he used to hunt and said he trapped weasel, mink and muskrat along the nearby creek. He also described fishing in the South Saskatchewan River and recalled his mother used to gather native vegetation for medicinal remedies.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"; color:black"><br /><span class="apple-style-span">“When you went hunting, did you get a licence?” asked Madden.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"; color:black"><br /><span class="apple-style-span">“No, why would I want a licence for,” Aaker responded.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"; color:black"><br /><span class="apple-style-span">“Did you ever get charged?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"; color:black"><br /><span class="apple-style-span">“No, they never caught me.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"; color:black"><br /><span class="apple-style-span">Madden asked if Aaker spoke an aboriginal language.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"; color:black"><br /><span class="apple-style-span">“Yea, English,” he responded before saying he could speak the Métis language Michif – a mixture of Cree and French.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"; color:black"><br /><span class="apple-style-span">Lead attorney for the province Tomas Rothwell declined to cross-examine Aaker.</span><br /><span class="apple-style-span">The first session of testimony in the trial is expected to end today with several more witnesses from the Métis community.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"; color:black"><br /><span class="apple-style-span">Two more sessions concentrating on historical documents are expected before the end of the year</span></span><span class="apple-style-span"><b><span style="font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"; color:black"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p></div>MetisMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03554425171029253662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5530703958326579110.post-83978296409585719132009-05-10T20:59:00.001-06:002009-05-10T21:03:25.207-06:00To All you Métis Mothers Have a Very Terrific DayAs the Matriarchs of our community – Thank you for all you do.<br /><br />In honour of Mother’s Day I have borrowed an article written by Lorraine Freeman about Louis Riel’s wife and the commitment she made as a Métis woman to the future of our nation.<br /><br /><strong>Marguerite Monet dit Bellehumeur Riel - A Metis Mother of the Battle of Batoche<br /></strong><br />"Her faith so deep and her righteousness are a beauty to be held.Ah... she is a tender creature,Always attentive to her duty.I have the privilege of knowing that her love is unfailing.When she loves, she loves through and through.Her gaze beckons on me."Louis Riel<br />Marguerite was born January 15th, 1861 at White Horse Plains (St. Francois Xavier) to Marie Malaterre and Jean Baptiste Monet dit Bellumeur. Marguerite's mother and father were from Metis hunting families. Marguerite spent her childhood at Fort Ellis (St. Lazare, Manitoba). Her family later moved to Montana when the Buffalo herds grew scarce.<br /><br /><br />When she was twenty years old, (1881), Marguerite was introduced to Louis Riel by her father; Louis who was quite taken with the young lady, would later ask for her hand. They were married by "custom of the country." The prairie marriage was preformed in March of 1882, at Carroll, Montana, by Father Damiani-a Jesuit from St. Peter's Mission, Montana.<br /><br /><br />Marguerite had her first child, a handsome son named Jean Riel, who had the eyes of his mother, on May 9th, 1882. Their second child, Marie Angelique, a pretty blonde little girl, was born September 17th, 1883.<br /><br /><br />Marguerite was known to be soft spoken, quiet, patient and is also said to have been petite and quite attractive. She took on the all responsibility of a plains wife: Gathering fire wood, cooking, cleaning and struggling on very little money and food. She was alone most of the time with her children, while Louis was fighting for rights of their people. Louis had a most devoted wife who worshipped him but feared the harm that could befall their family at the hands of his enemies.<br /><br /><br />In June 1884, Marguerite, Jean and Angelique accompanied Louis to Batoche, Saskatchewan, in spite of the looming conflict. She was at her husband's side during the battle of 1885 until Riel surrendered May 15th, to Middleton's scouts. Cold and hungry. Marguerite and her children hid in caves near Batoche while awaiting word from Louis. Instead Louis' brother Joseph appeared and took Marguerite and her children to live with Riel's mother in St. Boniface, MB.<br /><br /><br />Weakened by the events of Batoche and her husband's imprisonment, premature birth and death of her third child added to her grief. Marguerite's suffering continued with Louis' execution for his involvement in the Red River Resistance of 1869. When in May, 1886 she died of tuberculosis the final blow was dealt to a greatly diminished existence. She was buried beside her beloved Louis Riel in St. Boniface.<br /><br /><br />Marie Angelique died of diphtheria in 1897 just before she was to turn fourteen years old.Jean married Laura Casault, a daughter of a Québec family. Jean died July 31st, at the age of twenty-six from injuries resulting from a buggy accident. Jean and Laura had no children.MetisMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03554425171029253662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5530703958326579110.post-45754942715273504262009-05-08T06:55:00.000-06:002009-05-08T06:57:31.428-06:00Accused Métis hunter takes stand<strong>Medicine Hat News</strong><br />May 8, 2009<br /><br /><a href="http://www.medicinehatnews.com/content/view/98223/27/">http://www.medicinehatnews.com/content/view/98223/27/</a><br /><br />Accused Métis hunter takes stand<br /><br />ALEX MCCUAIG<br /><br />One of the three men accused of breaching hunting regulations as part of an effort to establish Métis hunting rights in southern Alberta took the stand in his own defence Thursday.<br /><br /><br />Ron Jones told the court of the hunting expedition north of Brooks in January 2008. He described it as part of a Métis action plan after the disillusionment with the aboriginal group’s Interim Harvesting Agreement with the Province of Alberta.<br /><br /><br />Jones told the court the hunt in January 2008 was to provide food for a feast with the remainder of the meat given to a single father.<br /><br /><br />The province’s lawyer, Tomas Rothwell, asked Jones if he thought his rights were being assaulted, If his rights to learn or educate his children in another language were being challenged, and if the disillusionment with the Interim Harvesting Agreement actually took away his rights.<br /><br /><br />“If you can take away one, you can take away the rest,” Jones responded.<br /><br /><br />Rothwell then produced a copy of the Edmonton Journal from Feb. 17, 2008 which documented the hunt in an article titled Launching the Western Rebellion. That article stated that he had never hunted in the area and showed a picture of him discussing his plans to notify conservation officers once he has taken an animal.<br /><br /><br />“Where you shot the antelope was actually quite close to CFB Suffield?” asked Rothwell.<br /><br /><br />“The (CFB Suffield) fence was about a half mile away,” answered Jones who worked in the area and on the base with Alberta Energy Company.<br /><br /><br />At the end of the cross-examination, Judge Ted Fisher asked Jones, “Did you have the belief, before or after, (conservation officers) would allow you to keep that animal?”<br /><br /><br />“I wouldn’t have bet on it,” responded Jones.<br /><br /><br />Jeannette Hansen, director of the Miywasin Society – an aboriginal friendship centre in Medicine Hat – told the court of her formative years in the city.She testified that her mother had denied her own Métis status due to experiences in a residential school.MetisMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03554425171029253662noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5530703958326579110.post-16164487240858775482009-05-07T14:14:00.002-06:002009-05-07T14:20:36.027-06:00Alberta Métis go to court in their 'hunt for justice'<span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:arial;font-size:11px;"><div class="headline" style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; "><h1 style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family: georgia; font-size: 26px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-weight: normal; ">Alberta Métis go to court in their 'hunt for justice'</h1></div><div class="clear" style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; clear: both; height: 1px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; margin-top: -1px; font-size: 1px; "> </div><div class="subheadline" style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; "><h2 style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family: georgia; font-size: 20px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-weight: normal; "></h2></div><div class="clear" style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; clear: both; height: 1px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; margin-top: -1px; font-size: 1px; "> </div><div class="byline" style=" ;font-family:arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif;font-size:11px;"><span class="name" style=" color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-transform: uppercase; font-weight: bold; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 15px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:arial;font-size:11px;">THE EDMONTON JOURNAL</span></div><div class="byline" style=" ;font-family:arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif;font-size:11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; text-transform: uppercase;">May 07, 2009</span></div><div class="byline" style=" ;font-family:arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif;font-size:11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; text-transform: uppercase;"><br /></span></div><div class="byline" style=" ;font-family:arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif;font-size:11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; text-transform: uppercase;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(70, 70, 70); font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px; text-transform: none; font-size:14px;"><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; ">Monday, May 4, the trial of three Métis hunters began in provincial court in Medicine Hat, as a part of the Métis Nation's ongoing "hunt for justice" in this province.</p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; "><br /></p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; ">This trial is not just about these three Métis hunters. It is about Alberta's more than 45,000 Métis securing our rightful place in a province we are proud to call home.</p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; "></p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; "><br /></p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; ">The defence that will be put forward by our lawyers will show that Alberta Métis have a shared history, identity and culture.</p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; "><br /></p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; ">We are not little communities or "dots on a map" that Sustainable Resource Development Minister Ted Morton can draw arbitrary circles around. We are a distinct aboriginal people with constitutionally protected rights that must be respected throughout Alberta.</p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; "><br /></p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; ">This trial marks a significant and disappointing change from the longstanding respect the Alberta government has shown the Métis people of this province.</p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; "><br /></p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; ">In the past, leadership and co-operation guided Alberta's approach on Métis issues. Instead of resorting to the courts, we developed "made-in-Alberta" solutions. Rightfully, Alberta was recognized as a national leader on this front.</p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; "><br /></p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; ">Now, this well-earned reputation has been tarnished in the eyes of the Métis and many others.</p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; "><br /></p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; ">In the end, it's going to be the Alberta taxpayer and the Métis who pay the bill for Morton's mistakes and flawed policy. Instead of using taxpayers' money to help Albertans weather these tough economic times, hundreds of thousands of dollars will be wasted in the courts.</p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; "><br /></p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; ">Of course, Morton will not personally repay the Alberta taxpayer or the Métis when he is ultimately proven wrong. Likely, by that time, he will no longer be the minister responsible.</p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; "><br /></p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; ">We are confident we will ultimately be successful in our "hunt for justice."</p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; "><br /></p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; ">The facts of history and Canada's Constitution are on our side. As well, we are a proud and resilient people who are united in wanting to see this through for our grandchildren and the generations of Métis yet to come. Through this tribulation, we also take some solace in knowing that we continue to have many friends in the Alberta government and throughout this province who are just as disappointed with the current state of affairs as we are.</p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; "><br /></p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; ">It is truly unfortunate that Morton has been allowed to usher in an era of mistrust and litigation that will only end up costing all Albertans, Métis included.</p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; "><br /></p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; ">This new adversarial approach will undoubtedly cause delays to projects and developments across Alberta where the government refuses to consult with us. Instead of avoiding these types of situations by working together, we will be in the courts creating uncertainty for government, industry and the Métis.</p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; "><br /></p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; ">The most frustrating part of this whole experience is that when the litigation is all said and done, we will be right back at the situation we are in today -- a place where we need to work together to create a "made-in-Alberta" solution. At that time, we hope to have our old friend and partner -- the Alberta government -- back at the table and willing to work with us in order to develop the solutions together.</p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; "><br /></p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; ">For more information, visit: www.albertametis.com.</p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; "><br /></p><p style="font-size: 14px; width: auto; line-height: 22px; ">Audrey Poitras, President, Métis Nation of Alberta, Edmonton</p><div class="copyright" style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; ">© Copyright (c) The Edmonton Journal</div><p></p></span></span></div></span>MetisMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03554425171029253662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5530703958326579110.post-38567251936783569542009-05-07T14:10:00.002-06:002009-05-07T14:14:30.825-06:00Posting by Unhypentated Canadian about Patrick Brazeau<span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'Trebuchet MS';font-size:13px;"><h2 class="date-header" style="margin-top: 10px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; color: rgb(119, 119, 119); font: normal normal bold 105%/normal 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; ">Thursday, May 07, 2009</h2><div class="post hentry uncustomized-post-template" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 0px; "><a name="2337646378029116476" style="color: rgb(222, 112, 8); "></a><h3 class="post-title entry-title" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; color: rgb(158, 82, 5); font: normal normal bold 160%/normal Verdana, sans-serif; letter-spacing: -1px; "><a href="http://unhyphenatedcanadian.blogspot.com/2009/05/we-dropped-ball-on-this-one-stephen.html" style="color: rgb(158, 82, 5); ">We Dropped The Ball On This One Stephen!</a></h3><div class="post-header-line-1"></div><div class="post-body entry-content"><div style="text-align: left; "><div style="text-align: right; "><center><div style="text-align: left; ">Don Martin: <a href="http://network.nationalpost.com/np/blogs/fullcomment/archive/2009/02/03/don-martin-patrick-brazeau-should-have-stayed-a-senator-in-waiting.aspx" style="color: rgb(222, 112, 8); ">Patrick Brazeau should have stayed a 'senator-in-waiting'</a></div><div class="entryviewfooter"><div class="em"><span class="em">Posted: </span>February 03, 2009, 10:44 AM by Daniel Goldbloom</div><div class="em"><br /></div><div class="em" style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: right; "><center><p style="text-align: left; ">It's hard to imagine how such a thoroughly damaged resumé could've survived the supposedly ruthless scrutiny of the Prime Minister's Office, particularly when the job is a 40-year guaranteed Senate gig with an annual salary of $130,000 plus perks.</p><p style="text-align: left; "><br /></p><p style="text-align: left; ">But the allegations, investigations and accusations against newly-appointed aboriginal Senator Patrick Brazeau, 34, are piling up in such a frenzy that it's quickly put the unelected Senate under a negative light, and must surely embarrass Canada's other six native senatorial representatives.</p><p style="text-align: left; "><br /></p><div style="text-align: left; "></div><div style="text-align: left; "></div><div style="text-align: left; "></div><p style="text-align: left; ">Consider the growing list of Brazeau indiscretions conveniently overlooked by the PMO, but unearthed by reporters in fairly short order.Brazeau had to be arm-twisted to give up his six-figure job as chief of the Congress of Aboriginal People, lest it be seen as double-dipping on the taxpayers' tab. That Conservative-cheerleading organization is still under investigation by Health Canada for its use or misuse of $260,000 in public funds including $16,050 in suspect payments to Brazeau or his sidekicks.The man described in his bio as a loving father of three is darn close to qualifying to be a deadbeat dad with the mother of one offspring telling CTV that Brazeau hasn't seen or properly supported his 14-year-old son in eight years.</p><p style="text-align: left; "><br /></p><div style="text-align: left; "></div><div style="text-align: left; "></div><p style="text-align: left; ">Brazeau's been seen tooling around Parliament Hill in a new Porsche SUV, has hired Ottawa staff who were reportedly hitting the sauce hard during work hours at his former congress job and is still fending off refuted allegations of sexual harassment at a human rights tribunal.If this is the calibre of individual Stephen Harper had in mind when he set out to reform the Senate, well, it's enough to make you yearn for those days when they filled the place with backroom bagmen.</p><div style="text-align: left; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: left; ">It's clear that Patrick Brazeau should've been kept a senator-in-waiting a bit longer to clear his name — or save taxpayers from a bad appointment.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.eastottawa.ca/article-cp57725734-Senator-harassment-case-to-go-to-fed-rights-panel.html" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(222, 112, 8); "></a></div><div style="text-align: left; "><a href="http://www.eastottawa.ca/article-cp57725734-Senator-harassment-case-to-go-to-fed-rights-panel.html" target="_blank" style="text-decoration: none;color: rgb(222, 112, 8); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">ONTARIO RIGHTS PANEL SAYS FEDS MUST HEAR SENATOR HARASSMENT CASE</span></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></center></div><div style="text-align: left; "></div></div></div></center></div></div></div></div></span>MetisMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03554425171029253662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5530703958326579110.post-6723044419925650902009-05-06T20:39:00.001-06:002009-05-06T20:43:48.800-06:00The Métis Nation and the Alberta Government or is it David and Goliath?<span style="color:#006600;">The Metis Hunt for Justice continues. In Alberta, the previous leadership (Premier Klein) was willing to try and negotiate a deal with the Alberta Metis to ensure that the implication of the Supreme Court decision was implemented. The era of government negotiated work ended with Mr. Klein's retirement.<br /><br />The new era of a provincial leader that is completely controlled by one of his cabinet ministers began. Ted Morton, an American born MLA, believes in the abolishment of Aboriginal rights and the assimilation and genocide of the Metis. He has brought in policies that went even against the recommendations of MLA Report and arbitrarily drew circles on a provincial map and made a policy that marginalizes where Metis can practice their harvesting rights. The circles that were drawn on the map exclude many historic Metis communities in Alberta including Cypress Hills. In fact - his circles completely exclude anywhere in southern or western Alberta.<br /><br />The historic documents completely demonstrate the significance of the Metis in the development of this province but the Alberta government would like to ignore any part of that history. Their own government records clearly demonstrate the history of the Metis and there is evidence of the contemporary Metis existing even today in those areas and that they have never extinguished their rights.<br /><br />The Metis Nation of Alberta has on many occasions attempted to meet with the Alberta Government to negotiate changes to the policy to no avail. They have been forced to use the courts to protect the rights of the Metis for future generations.<br /></span><br /><span style="color:#006600;">The Metis Hunting Case began on Monday in the courts in Medicine Hat.</span><br /><br /><strong>Lethbridge Herald</strong><br /><br /><a href="http://www.lethbridgeherald.com/content/view/55194/26/">http://www.lethbridgeherald.com/content/view/55194/26/</a><br /><br /><strong>Hunting court case</strong><br /><strong></strong><br />Written by Alex McCuaig SOUTHERN ALBERTA NEWSPAPERS<br /><br />It’s expected to be one of the longest trials in Medicine Hat provincial court history with hundreds of witnesses as well as thousands of documents and, according to one constitutional law expert, it will just be the beginning.<br /><br />Garry Hirsekorn, Ron Jones and Bruce Bates are facing charges of breaching provincial hunting regulations and, according to their lawyer, will likely admit as much in the trial, which began Monday.<br /><br />However, what’s at issue will be far larger — who is considered Métis in this province and where can they hunt. Proceedings have been scheduled over several sessions through the end of the year.<br /><br />The Alberta government under Ralph Klein fell in line with the Supreme Court’s 2003 Powley decision which recognized Métis’ right to hunt and fish for food and provided a legal test to determine exactly who can legally be recognized as Métis.<br /><br />In 2004, the Interim Métis Harvesting Agreement was enacted which allowed members of the aboriginal group to hunt on Crown land and without licenses.March 2006 saw the release of a seven-page report on the issue from the MLA Committee on Métis Harvesting. The three-MLA committee identified concerns about the interim agreement from fish and game associations, First Nations as well as the Métis themselves.<br /><br />The MLA report recommended a negotiated settlement firstly but, “alternatively, a unilateral approach could be instituted whereby the Alberta government would set out criteria under which it would implement a policy to govern,” the report stated.<br /><br />This would include identification of Métis communities, those who practice gathering rights and the scope of Métis harvesting.<br /><br />“Alberta has always been a leader in recognizing Métis culture and society, and we want to negotiate a new agreement together — one that balances the rights of the Métis people with wildlife conservation,” said Ron Stevens, then minister of justice and attorney general, in a press statement dated April 27, 2006.<br /><br />“This report provides us with the guidelines to do that.”<br /><br />In the same release, Pearl Calahasen, then minister of aboriginal affairs stated, “Alberta's approach has always been to negotiate agreements and to avoid litigation with aboriginal people whenever possible. The government is not taking unilateral action on Métis harvesting and will be entering into negotiations.”<br /><br />In January 2007, the Court of Queen’s bench set aside the conviction of Kipp Kelley, a Métis hunter prosecuted for illegal trapping. In that decision, the judge found the Interim Harvesting Agreement “not legally enforceable.”<br /><br />In July of that year, the agreement ended and was replaced with a policy that restricted harvesting rights to areas within a radius of eight recognized Métis settlements and 17 communities — none south of the Yellowhead Highway.<br /><br />In response to this, Métis began in late 2007 what they call the “hunt for justice,” a series of protest hunts conducted throughout southern Alberta including the Cypress Hills, Pincher Creek and Brooks areas.<br /><br />“This will be on our plate for years to come,” said Greg Clarke, director of the Centre for Constitutional Studies in a telephone interview from Edmonton.The aim of the trial is to force government to accept Métis’ constitutional rights that allow them to hunt outside the regulations.<br /><br />“These are the sorts of cases that require a lot of historical research and witnesses who are professors of history. They are very unusual provincial cases for that reason . . . I would be surprised if it ended at the provincial court level.”Clarke said he is skeptical of the purpose of such trials, calling them long, drawn out, expensive and inefficient.<br /><br />“If it were to be possible to see the Métis Nation of Alberta, the provincial and federal governments sit down and negotiate a framework — that already recognizes Métis rights — we wouldn’t need to use this onerous way of making public policy.”<br /><br />The fact that there was an interim harvesting agreement lends credence to the Métis’ claim, he added.<br /><br />“They had a framework in place with the Alberta government that the Alberta government chose to alter. It’s the government’s prerogative to do that but when they negotiated this framework with the Métis and then chose — presumably without negotiation — to rescind that policy, that is a political issue.”<br /><br />Clarke went on to say that the unconstitutionality of the law may be hard for the Métis to prove but that doesn’t mean the Constitution won’t uphold the aboriginal group’s rights.<br /><br />He said to expect the Métis to call on Section 35 of the Canadian Constitution as a defence for their actions.<br /><br />“That’s the section the courts, over time, have begun to develop as they relate to Métis peoples in Canada,” he said.<br /><br />The men’s lawyer, Jean Teillet, agreed.<br /><br />“That is where the big part of the trial will come in,” she said.“We have to prove there is a historical Métis people on the land who hunted in Cypress Hills.”<br /><br />The second part of their constitutional challenge will require the accused to prove Métis have continued to hunt in the Cypress Hills, said Teillet.<br /><br />“In Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Ontario, a lot of what we have heard is that people have been raised to hunt in secret. I’ve heard Métis say that when they were kids they thought moose were nocturnal animals because they always hunted at night.”<br /><br />Teillet said individuals in attendance at the trial will be receiving a history lesson about Métis who lived in this area.<br /><br />“(There will be) thousands of historical documents — 5,000 to 10,000. And there will be community witnesses in the first two weeks talking about their practices, what their dad did and what their grandmothers told them.”MetisMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03554425171029253662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5530703958326579110.post-82424705305127598232009-05-06T20:35:00.001-06:002009-05-06T20:39:09.982-06:00Trial begins for Métis<strong>Medicine Hat News<br /></strong><br /><a href="http://www.medicinehatnews.com/content/view/97015/27/">http://www.medicinehatnews.com/content/view/97015/27/</a><br /><br /><strong>Trial begins for Métis</strong><br /><br />ALEX MCCUAIG<br /><br />The three men accused of breaching hunting regulations as part of the Métis “Hunt for Justice” campaign made a four-block march Monday morning down to the Medicine Hat Courthouse, surrounded by 40 supporters.<br /><br />Garry Hirsekorn, Bruce Bates and Ron Jones took part in hunts near Cypress Hills, Blairmore and Suffield respectively beginning in late 2007. The aim was to establish recognized gathering rights in southern Alberta for Métis.<br /><br />The province’s lawyers are contesting that the men do not meet the conditions of the Powley Decision – a Supreme Court ruling which gives a legal framework for identifying Métis.<br /><br />However, the men’s lawyer Jean Teillet said, “Powley has morphed.”<br /><br />She said she expects to prove not just the hunting rights for Métis throughout Alberta but a huge swath of the country stretching from the Great Lakes to the Rockies.<br /><br />“The Métis have a history of hunting throughout the northwest ... the lands in question are the lands traditional hunted by the Métis of the northwest.”<br /><br />Alberta Justice aboriginal law attorney Thomas G. Rothwell said any suggestion that denying these hunting rights is a rejection of Métis couldn’t be any further than the truth.<br /><br />“You may be Métis but you may not be part of a rights bearing community. Individuals may say ‘what is the point of being Métis, that is what my culture is about?’ That is what we are here to decide.”<br /><br />The criminal aspect of the case took less than an hour with an agreed statement of facts entered into evidence and a guilty verdict rendered pending the constitutional challenge.<br /><br />The majority of the day was spent with Teillet and Rothwell going back and forth over case law on whether the province must disclose a report on the Métis.<br /><br />Teillet argued the report commissioned for the province by Heather Devine be made available to the defence while Rothwell countered that the document did not have to be released under government privilege.<br /><br />Judge Ted Fisher set aside his decision on that matter until Monday at the latest.<br /><br />A total of 40 witnesses are expected to take the stand over at least three sessions that will run until the end of the year.<br /><br />Audrey Poitras, president of the Métis Nation of Alberta, is expected to testify Tuesday.MetisMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03554425171029253662noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5530703958326579110.post-82479173629187035922009-05-06T20:24:00.002-06:002009-05-06T20:30:38.221-06:00Alberta Metis hunters battle province in court<strong>Calgary Herald</strong><br /><strong></strong><br /><a href="http://www.calgaryherald.com/news/Alberta+Metis+hunters+battle+province+court/1556879/story.html">http://www.calgaryherald.com/news/Alberta+Metis+hunters+battle+province+court/1556879/story.html</a><br /><br /><strong>Alberta Metis hunters battle province in court</strong><br /><strong>Riel descendant calls case 'pathetic'<br /></strong><br />By Darcy Henton, Edmonton Journal<br />May 2, 2009<br /><br /><br />Alberta's Metis people and the provincial government will square off in court in Medicine Hat on Monday for Round 1 of a historic battle that could be waged for decades over the province's interpretation of Metis hunting rights.<br /><br />Six years after the Supreme Court of Canada ruled Metis have a constitutional right to fish, hunt and gather food, Alberta Metis say they have been forced to go to court to achieve full recognition of those rights.<br /><br />Three Metis hunters who shot deer and antelope in southern Alberta are on trial for illegal hunting in the first of what is expected to be a series of cases involving more than 25 hunters.<br />The Medicine Hat case is expected to be tried intermittently over seven weeks spread over the course of the year.<br /><br />Other Metis hunters who shot wild game in other parts of the province are slated to go to trial in stages after the first case is resolved.<br /><br />Metis Nation of Alberta president Audrey Poitras said her 45,000 members may have to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars to assert rights Canada's top court has already ruled they have.<br /><br />"There's absolutely no reason why we should even be in court," Poitras said. "We had an agreement that worked. If there needed to be changes, we had clauses in the agreement to do that."<br /><br />Metis lawyer Jean Teillet said the province's insistence on prosecuting the charges in each region separately rather than bundling them into one provincewide case is a waste of court time and taxpayers' money.<br /><br />"The way the Crown has this lined up, we'll be at this for the next 20 years," said Teillet, who won the landmark Powley case from Ontario in the Supreme Court of Canada in 2003.<br /><br />She said she would be "very surprised" if she cannot prove there were Metis people in the Cypress Hills who have always hunted there.<br /><br />"The evidence is overwhelming," said Teillet, a direct descendant of Metis leader Louis Riel. "It's like de-fending the fact the sun sets in the west. It would be funny if it wasn't so pathetic."<br /><br />But Darcy Whiteside, spokesman for Alberta Sustainable Resource Development, said the department is confident it is applying the top court ruling correctly.<br /><br />"The information that we have indicates that in southern Alberta, there was no Metis community that would meet the Powley requirement."<br /><br />© Copyright (c) The Calgary HeraldMetisMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03554425171029253662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5530703958326579110.post-49045838726357107512009-05-06T20:15:00.001-06:002009-05-06T20:23:52.846-06:00Senator harassment case to go to fed rights panelNews Talk Radio<br /><br />Wed, 2009-05-06 19:02.<br /><br />By: Sue Bailey, THE CANADIAN PRESS<br /><br />OTTAWA - Ontario's human rights tribunal has ruled that a sexual harassment complaint involving Senator Patrick Brazeau must be heard at the federal level.<br /><br />At issue was whether the matter involving the federally incorporated Congress of Aboriginal Peoples - which Brazeau led until being named to the Senate five months ago - should be handled by the provincial panel.<br /><br />A four-paragraph ruling issued April 23 with little notice says the congress argued it must be dealt with under the Canadian Human Rights Act - not Ontario legislation.<br /><br />"The parties are agreed, although for different reasons, that this tribunal has no jurisdiction over the application and the applicant has taken steps to have her complaint dealt with under the federal act."<br /><br />It can now proceed before the Canadian Human Rights Commission.<br /><br />Lawyer Michael Swinwood, who represents the woman behind the complaint, says she will decide "imminently" on next steps. She is considering suing Brazeau and the congress, he said.<br /><br />"We're quite concerned about the way the matter has been dealt with all the way through from the perspective of the organization - which would include our friend Senator Brazeau.<br /><br />"I'm really talking about issues surrounding the complaint itself, and how they were handled internally at the time the complaints were made."<br /><br />Brazeau declined to comment Wednesday.<br /><br />He has confirmed the dispute involves inappropriate text messages and phone calls. But he has repeatedly tried to distance himself from the case, stressing that the human rights complaint formally named the congress - not him specifically.<br /><br />Brazeau and his lawyer have also said an investigative report by mediation firm ADR Chambers cleared him of any wrongdoing. The report has not been publicly released, Brazeau says, to protect the identity of the complainant.<br /><br />At 34, Brazeau - an Algonquin member of the Kitigan Zibi band in northwestern Quebec - is one of the youngest appointees ever to the upper house. He made waves as leader of the congress by openly endorsing the Harper Conservatives and repeatedly attacking the accountability of native chiefs across Canada.<br /><br />Brazeau blamed enemies in "the native establishment" for a wave of bad PR in the weeks after his Senate appointment.<br /><br />In addition to the official human-rights complaint, another young woman who worked for the congress went public with allegations that Brazeau condoned heavy drinking during business hours - a charge he denied.<br /><br />There were also uncomfortable questions about a Health Canada draft audit that forced the congress to better account for how it spent about $200,000.<br /><br />He was also criticized for attempting to hang on to his job as head of the congress while also serving as a senator. He ultimately conceded that, along with the optics of collecting two publicly funded six-figure salaries, keeping both jobs could pose a conflict of interest.<br /><br />He chose the Senate.<br /><br />Brazeau, a father of four, also had ready explanations for missing $100-a-month child-support payments to his estranged eldest son from a previous relationship.<br /><br />And he dismissed suggestions that his crafted image as a poverty-fighting aboriginal leader was tainted by his arrival on Parliament Hill in a 2006 Porsche SUV. The vehicle was bought used before he got the Senate nod from Prime Minister Stephen Harper, he said at the time.MetisMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03554425171029253662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5530703958326579110.post-87690323581595917862009-04-30T14:56:00.002-06:002009-04-30T15:23:31.202-06:00Awwhhh ... Now here is the cry from the bully ...<span style="color:#009900;">Following is a press release from the little bully who did not think that Metis Residential School survivors were important enough to bother even taking one when he had the chance....<br /><br />And don't forget that had Mr. Clem Chartier and Mr. David Chartrand lost their attitude about being superior ... Phil Fontaine continued to encourage and support them to participate in the negotiations around compensation and reconciliation. It was David and Clem that refused to participate.<br /><br />For those that don't know ... this has meant that many of the Metis residential school survivors have not received compensation. Some were not registered and recorded due to the issues that related with administration of the Residential Schools. The churches and organizations were compensated for First Nations students so they were tracked. Metis students were not applied for so they were often treated like the servants of the facilities and not registered.<br /><br />There are some survivors who are even in the old pictures of the school but not in the registries. Some were identified as day students. Not that the day students did not get the same beatings, sexual violations and emotional and cultural abuse ... but once again because there was no voice for them throughout the discussions ... there is not acknowledgement of their abuse.<br /><br />The other piece that I would tell you is that at least David sees compensation in a different light. He would like the Metis Residential School Survivors to consider having the money they would receive placed into a Manitoba Metis Federation account for the collective use of the President. Who knows maybe our Metis survivors would not mind one more act of abuse being perpetrated on them - financial abuse?<br /></span><br /><br />The press release is as follows:<br /><br /><em><strong>MNC Disappointed with Métis Survivors Exclusion from Vatican Apology</strong></em><br /><br /><a href="http://mmf.mb.ca/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=591&Itemid=2">http://mmf.mb.ca/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=591&Itemid=2</a><br /><br />FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE<br />April 29, 2009<br /><br />Métis National Council Vice-president David Chartrand is welcoming the expression of regret from Pope Benedict XVI for abuses suffered by First Nation survivors of Catholic-run residential schools, but says he’s disappointed Métis and Inuit survivors were not included.<br /><br />“I hope First Nations survivors can find some healing from this genuine statement of sorrow from Pope Benedict XVI,” says Chartrand. “A similar gesture of reconciliation would be of great comfort for the many Métis survivors who suffered in Catholic-run residential schools.”<br /><br />Pope Benedict XVI made the statement of regret during a private audience with AFN National Chief Fontaine, First Nation elders and survivors. Vice-president Chartrand was invited by Assembly of First Nations National Chief Phil Fontaine to represent the Métis Nation during the visit to the Vatican, but was not part of the private audience.<br /><br />Vice-president Chartrand, along with Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK) President Mary Simon, met with Archbishop the Most Reverend James Weisgerber, President of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, to voice their concerns over the exclusion of Métis and Inuit survivor from the Pope’s statement. Archbishop Weisgerber has offered to press the Vatican for private audiences for Métis survivors and another for Inuit.<br /><br />“I am heartened by the support from Archbishop Weisgerber,” says Chartrand. “I believe he has a sincere desire to help heal the pain residential schools caused for Métis survivors and the entire Métis Nation.”<br />Vice-president Chartrand says the MNC will continue to work with Archbishop Wesigerber and the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops towards reconciliation. To that end, Chartrand and ITK President Simon offered a joint invitation for Pope Benedict XVI to visit Métis and Inuit communities in Canada.<br /><br />For more information contact Frank Coyle, MMF Communications at (204) 586-8474 ext. 374 or fcoyle@mmf.mb.caThis. e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , Greg Taylor, MNC Communications, at (613) 296-9263 or gregt@metisnation.ca..<br /><br /><br />The MNC represents the Métis Nation in Canada at the national and international level. The Métis Nation’s homeland includes the 3 Prairie Provinces and extends into Ontario, British Columbia, the Northwest Territories and the northern United States. There are approximately 350,000 – 400,000 Métis Nation citizens in Canada, roughly a quarter of all Aboriginal peoples in the country.MetisMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03554425171029253662noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5530703958326579110.post-32149997499298122542009-04-30T07:51:00.000-06:002009-04-30T07:52:52.211-06:00Métis hunting trial to begin MondayALEX MCCUAIG<br /><br /><br />Medicine Hat will be the venue for a trial with ramifications for Métis in Alberta and across Canada as three men are set to challenge the constitutionality of hunting charges against them.<br /><br /><br />Two of the three – Ron Jones and Bruce Bates – are facing charges of hunting out of season while a third man, Garry Hirsekorn of Medicine Hat, is accused of hunting without a licence.<br /><br /><br />All three were part of a group who took part in 20 protest hunts conducted in Alberta in late 2007 and early 2008. Their trial is part of what the Métis have dubbed, “hunt for justice.”<br /><br /><br />Though the hunts have stopped, they have only begun the expected year-long trial, which begins on Monday, that will seek to establish Métis rights in the province, according to the group’s lawyer Jean Teillet.<br /><br /><br />Speaking in a telephone interview from Vancouver, Teillet said this case will be held as a benchmark whether the government will pursue charges against others.<br />“Our defence is that there is a Métis right to hunt across the province,” she said.<br />“It is fair to say what we are trying to do is get away from the idea of invisible boundaries that demarcate parts of Alberta.”<br /><br /><br />In support of the men, Métis leaders are calling on members from across their community to join them at 4 p.m. on Sunday for a celebration feast at Medicine Hat’s Veiner Centre. They are also calling on members to attend this “historic trial.”<br /><br /><br />The proceedings begin at 9 a.m. on May 4 at Medicine Hat Provincial CourtMetisMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03554425171029253662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5530703958326579110.post-74638900139207398152009-04-30T07:43:00.000-06:002009-04-30T07:46:17.811-06:00Aboriginal People receive an Expression of Sorrow from the Pope<meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CADMINI%7E1%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="State"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="PlaceType"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="PlaceName"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="place"></o:smarttagtype><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">Firstly – I am not a residential school survivor – generations that went before me were mostly spared the experience. We did have a few cousins and more distant relatives that were affected but most of them remained loyal to their Catholic faith until their passing.
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I have been to many of the activities, conferences and meetings where there were residential school survivors. To hear the atrocities that resulted from a generational genocide of a people from policies that created the struggles of some of our survivors would shake the very core of anyone’s beliefs. It has altered my own but that is not what this is about.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Firstly, I do believe that whether you are a fan of Phil Fontaine’s or not – you have to acknowledge that during his leadership he has worked diligently to try and address and have the <st1:place><st1:placename>Residential</st1:placename> <st1:placetype>School</st1:placetype></st1:place> issues acknowledged and understood. For Canadians – they have become more aware of the issues that resulted from the residential school experience. For our survivors there has been a great deal of effort towards acknowledging their struggles in an attempt to help them find healing. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">I do hope that some of them do find healing in the apologies that were made. I also pray that the programs and compensation that is a part of the work of the Truth and Reconciliation pieces bring further progression towards a place of peace.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Now folks I want to deal with the Métis politics of this story – because as much as the event is significant – Métis politics is always a place of its’ own expression.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Phil Fontaine invited other Aboriginal leaders to come and participate. The Inuit leader, Mary Simon went to the <st1:state><st1:place>Vatican City</st1:place></st1:state>, Jim Sinclair – one of our past Métis leaders was invited to attend and then Clem was invited. As many of our Métis people here have come to know – Clem will not participate with the AFN or Phil Fontaine in most things. He is generally invited to participate and if AFN is the hosting organization – Clem normally ignores the invitation. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">In fact folks – one of the reasons that Métis and the issues related to most of them have not been addressed through the <st1:place><st1:placename>Residential</st1:placename> <st1:placetype>School</st1:placetype></st1:place> initiatives is thanks to Clem not participating. This time though he sent our infamous David Chartrand. Now there was room for two Métis – so our infamous leader could have taken a Métis residential school survivor. Now that would have made sense that a Métis Residential School Survivor joined the other <st1:place><st1:placename>Métis</st1:placename> <st1:placename>Residential</st1:placename> <st1:placetype>School</st1:placetype></st1:place> survivors to gain audience with the Pope.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Well my Métis friends – we did not take a residential school survivor – we took our well paid Métis contractor – Mark Leclair. I am trying to make sense of these things so what I am speculating is that due to the behaviour of the Métis bully – David Chartrand - he needed to take his main henchman and himself to get a special blessing – so he may repent for his bullying and find his way to the pearly gates some day. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Now just to be clear – when the Pope gave private audience to the Aboriginal delegation for the 30 minutes that they got – David was not invited into the private meeting. Maybe he will have to do some more repenting to find St. Peter. </p> MetisMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03554425171029253662noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5530703958326579110.post-14747215749943469302009-04-28T06:20:00.002-06:002009-04-28T06:50:16.467-06:00The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs and a Million Dollar Donation<span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 153); font-weight: bold;">Frank Godon provided me with a comment relating to a story that was released last week. Now as you read the story and the editorial comments - I will tell you that I am not providing an opinion related to what the First Nations in Manitoba are doing relating to their money. There is always criteria related to how gaming dollars can be used and that is generally detailed much earlier then these announcements are made.<br /><br />The one thing that I would like to bring forward is the waste of tax payers money that all governments are guilty of why crying for money to deal with the social ails of society on the other hand.<br /><br />In Alberta last week - we came to understand that the Alberta Government did not hesitate to spend 25 million dollars on an ad campaign to promote Alberta as a travel destination. They then put forward a picture of a beach in the UK as a means of promoting Alberta. There are beaches, majestic mountains and some of the most breath taking scenery in the world here but Britian's beaches were what was used.<br /><br />In Edmonton - we have a municipal government that has continously advised the Federal and Provincial governments the ever ending need for resources to address the social problems that we have. On the other hand they are busy putting forward bids for the 2017 Expo. They are spending hundreds of thousands of dollars on making the bid and have asked the Province for millions of Alberta tax dollars to continue on their trek to try and get the bid through.<br /><br />We can't seem to find the dollars to deal with homelessness, pot holes, snow removal, police services, and other matters that seem essential to many but we have the resources to chase a bid - not even knowing if we stand a snow balls chance in hell of getting the bid.<br /><br />We could also go to examples of other Aboriginal leaders prioritizing things like endless civil law suits against individuals to spend their limited resources on while whining that they do not have any funding - but somewhere these decisions get made by elected individuals that do not consider the reality of the situations that affect the common grassroots people.<br /><br />The link to the story is:<br /><br /></span>http://www.canada.com/Manitoba+First+Nations+donate+museum/1519462/story.html<br /><br /><h1><span style="font-size:100%;">Manitoba First Nations donate $1M to museum.</span></h1>WINNIPEG- The Canadian Museum for Human Rights received a $1-million boost Tuesday from the First Nations in Manitoba.<div id="page1"><p>The donation was made on behalf of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs and the South Beach Casino and Resort.</p><p>``The First Nations stories and themes throughout the museum will share the true history and stories of our people,'' said assembly Grand Chief Ron Evans in a news release Tuesday.</p><p>``This is a great opportunity for us as First Nations to educate the citizens of the world, not only on the historical injustices that we continue to endure, but also the resilience of our people, the teachings we can offer related to peace and justice, and the great progress we have achieved in protecting and advancing our rights.''</p><p>The museum, which will be constructed in Winnipeg, is the brainchild of the late Izzy Asper, the founder of Canwest Global Communications.</p><p>The mission of the museum will be to explore human rights and commit to taking action to combat the forces of hate and oppression.</p><p>``The Canadian Museum for Human Rights has always been envisioned as a journey of hope,'' said Friends of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights campaign chair, Gail Asper.</p><p>``Indeed, the very mission of the museum is to promote respect and we believe that educating and enlightening visitors with the stories of First Nations people will help achieve that mission.''</p><p>To date, there have been more than 4,500 donations made by the private sector to the museum. All three levels of government have given a combined $160 million contribution to the project.</p><p>The total cost of the project has been pegged at $265 million. Construction is expected to be completed by February 2012.</p><div class="copyright">© Copyright (c) Canwest News Service<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 204); font-weight: bold;">After this piece of news was announced on April 21 an editorial/blog was released at: </span><br /><br /></div></div>http://www.cjob.com/blogs/ExcuseMe/blogentry.aspx?BlogEntryID=10029486<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);" class="largeheader">Excuse Me<br /><br /></span> <div style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);" class="div2"> </div> <img style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);" src="http://www.cjob.com/EI/T/Images/Blogs/bullet_post.gif" /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);" class="lit">Posted 4/22/2009 8:00:00 AM</span> <div style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);" class="div6"> </div><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);"> Interesting, The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs cut a cheque for a million bucks and handed it over to the Canadian Museum for Human Rights.</span><br /> <br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);"> Excuse me? Doubt that the chiefs had to buy their way into the museum. When it comes to human rights and a museum highlighting the struggles aboriginals will qualify as charter members, believe me.</span><br /> <br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);"> The donation came in part from the South Beach Casino and the Grand Chief says it’ll give them a chance to tell their story. </span><br /> <br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);"> Wait a minute, we know the story, we’re hearing it every day but unfortunately it’s been going in one ear and out the other and the chiefs themselves make that point.</span><br /> <br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);"> The Chiefs made their donation in the morning and later in the day the same chiefs stuck a hand out demanding government financial relief from the flood waters.</span><br /> <br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);"> The chiefs had a million bucks gained through the easy-come-easy-go method of gambling revenues and instead of handing it over to help their people in a time of need they make a deposit on membership in a human rights museum.</span><br /> <br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);"> They just don’t get it do they? They do not know how to spend their money in a manner which will most benefit their own people. They complain about the state of their housing, they’re hard pressed to find safe drinking water, they have kids on the reserves with no future, they have people who don’t know where their next meal is coming from, and they take their casino money and give it to a museum.</span><br /> <br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);"> And then the audacity of hearing their so-called top aboriginal leader step to the podium down there in Ottawa and complain that the onus is upon others to bail them out.</span><br /> <br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);"> And therein lies the problem…..Indian Affairs says the government gives First nations money each and every year and it is up to them to decide how to spend it.</span><br /> <br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);"> Believe me, the examples are everywhere, they do not know how to spend nor where to spend.</span><br /> <br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);"> The museum donation is just one of those examples.</span><br /> <br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);"> A million bucks won’t do much in the big picture but the optics and the cheque would provide a small dose of relief right now at a grass roots level where it is most needed.</span><br /> <br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);"> Wonder if they bothered to ask the people of Peguis if they could have used a million bucks right now?</span><br /> <br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);"> I’M CJOB NEWS DIRECTOR VIC GRANT</span>MetisMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03554425171029253662noreply@blogger.com4