pelltsipwen’ten 2014 A monthly publication serving the people and communities of the Secwpemc Nation SHUSWAP NATION • SEXQELTQÍN ADAMS LAKE • ST’UXWTÉWS BONAPARTE • TSQ’ÉSCEN CANIM LAKE • STSWÉCEMC/ XGÉT’TEM’ CANOE/DOG CREEK • ESK’ÉT ALKALI LAKE • LLENLLENÉY’TEN HIGH BAR • TK’EMLÚPS KAMLOOPS • QW7EWT LITTLE SHUSWAP • SK’ATSÍN NESKONLITH • SIMPCW NORTH THOMPSON • TSK’WÉYLECW PAVILION • KENPÉSQ’T SHUSWAP • SKÍTSESTN SKEETCHESTN • XATS’ÚLL SODA CREEK • SPLATSÍN SPALLUMCHEEN • T’ÉXELC WILLIAMS LAKE • STIL’QW/ PELLT’ÍQ’T WHISPERING PINES/CLINTON The voice of the Pelltsipwen’ten 2014 March 2014 WELCOME HOME SOLDIER.......KUKWTSTSEMC Above: Corp.Trevor Robbins Below Left: Debbie Hance, Trevor’s mother Below Right: Elders Rose and Willard Dick, Trevor Robbins, Victorine and Willie Sr. Alphonse and Mayor of Williams Lake welcome home Trevor with a “Honor Song”. What a Celebration!! Trevor was surrounded by his loved ones, his mother Deb Hance, his aunties, his uncles, cousins, elders from surrounding communities. Trevor was a young man when he applied for the Bald Eagle Progam in Wainrightt, Alberta, a summer training and employment program for Aboriginal youth throughout Western Canada,an entry level program to the Canadian Armed Forces, that contains military life and Aboriginal Culture. It gives an individual the opportunity to pursue the Canadian Armed Forces this is where Trevor’s military life began. His mom shared how it was the difficult decision and hardest thing she ever had to do, was to let her son go. After Trevor returned from the Bald Eagle program with enthusiasm and wanting to enlist in the Canadian Armed Forces. He applied after graduation.Two months later he was off to a thirteen week Basic Miliary Qualification training in St. Jan-sur- Richelieu, Quebec.This is where Trevor’s commitment and dedication came in; this was not an easy task. He worked hard and was determined to complete the training and he did. Prior to training Trevor signed a three year commitment to the Canadian Armed Force. Trevor graduated on May 9,2008 from BMQ he was flown back to Wainwright, Alb. to pursue his training to be a soldier and specialize in the Infantry Program. On September 11, 2008 Trevor completed his Infantry training...he was now a soldier and known as Private Robbins. Trevor won an award, the Most Improved Candidate. Trevor loves to play sports, especially hockey. He gives it all when his feet hit the ice; it is one of his passions. Growing up in a hockey town he started playing hockey at the novice level and started to play rep hockey in Atoms, where he continued to play until he completed in the Midget level. He played in many Aboriginal tournaments as well. In September 2009 Trevor went on his first tour to Afghanistan for nine months. This was a very difficult time for his family. There was not a day that didn’t go by that they worried for his safety. In May he returned home safe. Trevor was stationed in Shilo, Manitoba, during his time after his deployment and has completed several programs, the leadership program. Trevor is home and did not re-sign another contract, six years was long enough to be away from his family. Trevor is pursuing his education and he is working towards a Degree in Psychology. Another long road ahead of him; his determination will help him succeed. Welcome home Corp. Trevor Robbins! Please note* we welcome similar stories, we would like to keep honouring our soldiers.
Transcript
pelltsipwen’ten 2014 Secwepemc NEWS 1
A monthly publication serving the people and communities of the Secwepemc Nation SHUSWAP NATION
• SEXQELTQÍN
ADAMS LAKE
• ST’UXWTÉWS
BONAPARTE
• TSQ’ÉSCEN
CANIM LAKE
• STSWÉCEMC/
XGÉT’TEM’
CANOE/DOG
CREEK
• ESK’ÉT
ALKALI LAKE
• LLENLLENÉY’TEN
HIGH BAR
• TK’EMLÚPS
KAMLOOPS
• QW7EWT
LITTLE SHUSWAP
• SK’ATSÍN
NESKONLITH
• SIMPCW
NORTH
THOMPSON
• TSK’WÉYLECW
PAVILION
• KENPÉSQ’T
SHUSWAP
• SKÍTSESTN
SKEETCHESTN
• XATS’ÚLL
SODA CREEK
• SPLATSÍN
SPALLUMCHEEN
• T’ÉXELC
WILLIAMS LAKE
• STIL’QW/
PELLT’ÍQ’T
WHISPERING
PINES/CLINTON
The voice of thePelltsipwen’ten 2014
March 2014
WELCOME HOME SOLDIER.......KUKWTSETSEMC
Above: Corp.Trevor Robbins Below Left: Debbie Hance, Trevor’s motherBelow Right: Elders Rose and Willard Dick, Trevor Robbins, Victorine and Willie Sr. Alphonse and Mayor of Williams Lake welcome home Trevor with a “Honor Song”.
What a Celebration!! Trevor was surrounded by his loved ones, his mother Deb Hance, his aunties, his uncles, cousins, elders from surrounding communities. Trevor was a young man when he applied for the Bald Eagle Progam in Wainrightt, Alberta, a summer training and employment program for Aboriginal youth throughout Western Canada,an entry level program to the Canadian Armed Forces, that contains military life and Aboriginal Culture. It gives an individual the opportunity to pursue the Canadian Armed Forces this is where Trevor’s military life began. His mom shared how it was the difficult decision and hardest thing she ever had to do, was to let her son go. After Trevor returned from the Bald Eagle program with enthusiasm and wanting to enlist in the Canadian Armed Forces. He applied after graduation.Two months later he was off to a thirteen week Basic Miliary Qualification training in St. Jan-sur-Richelieu, Quebec.This is where Trevor’s commitment and dedication came in; this was not an easy task. He worked hard and was determined to complete the training and he did. Prior to training Trevor signed a three year commitment to the Canadian Armed Force. Trevor graduated on May 9,2008 from BMQ he was flown back to Wainwright, Alb. to pursue his training to be a soldier
and specialize in the Infantry Program. On September 11, 2008 Trevor completed his Infantry training...he was now a soldier and known as Private Robbins. Trevor won an award, the Most Improved Candidate. Trevor loves to play sports, especially hockey. He gives it all when his feet hit the ice; it is one of his passions. Growing up in a hockey town he started playing hockey at the novice level and started to play rep hockey in Atoms, where he continued to play until he completed in the Midget level. He played in many Aboriginal tournaments as well. In September 2009 Trevor went on his first tour to Afghanistan for nine months. This was a very difficult time for his family. There was not a day that didn’t go by that they worried for his safety. In May he returned home safe.Trevor was stationed in Shilo, Manitoba, during his time after his deployment and has completed several programs, the leadership program. Trevor is home and did not re-sign another contract, six years was long enough to be away from his family.Trevor is pursuing his education and he is working towards a Degree in Psychology. Another long road ahead of him; his determination will help him succeed.
Welcome home Corp. Trevor Robbins!
Please note* we welcome similar stories, we would like to keep honouring our soldiers.
2 MARCH 2014Secwepemc NEWS
All are welcome to list any upcoming meetings and events in this space. Please give us a call at (778) 471-5789 or fax us at (778) 471-5792 or E-mail us at [email protected].
Calendar of Community EVENTS
Secwepemc News is published monthly
OUR MISSION is to provide a forum for members of the 17 Shuswap Bands
to discuss and learn more about the issues, news and events taking place
in the Shuswap Nation; to promote awareness of Secwepemc language,
culture and history; to recognize the individual accomplishments of
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Secwepemc people.
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reports. Kukwstep-kucw
The voice of the Shuswap Nation
NEWS
Secwepemctsín
Wel me7 yews
“Preserving Our
Language”
EditorLouise
Alphonse
Language PageKathy Manuel
Contributors* STEP
* Cliff Arnouse* Sophie White
* Calvin Bakshaw* Native Women’s
Association* Tom Fletcher
* Nacoma George* All Nations Trust* Kamloops Film
Festival
After School Aboriginal Girls Mentors GroupThe Kamloops Aboriginal Friendship Society, Kamloops School District, First Nations Education Council, and TRU would like to introduce the group. It is intended to give extra support to Aboriginal girls in such areas as: moccasin making, birch bark baskets, traditional teachings and working on various self empowerment tools. There will be two groups of ten girls ranging from ages 9-13, working with Aboriginal female mentors. Transportation arrangements may be available. Call Renee Narcisse, facilitator @ 250-376-1296 for more information. Group 1 is on Tuesdays 3:30 pm to 5:30 pmGroup 2 is Wednesdays 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm
Cknúcwentn Court – First Nations Court 2013/2014Kamloops Courthouse – Courtroom 3C Court commences at 9:30 am, Friday, March 7 - Friday, April 4 - Friday, May 2 - Friday, June 6For assistance or further information pleasecontact: Cknúcwentn Duty Counsel, RaymondPhillips at 250- -455--2471 or Toll free at1- 855- 355- 2471or Native Courtworker, Rae- AnneSasakamoose at 1- 877- 811- 1190 or KamloopsLegal Aid at 250- 314- 1900
Rita Matthew is the interim Executive Director of SCES and can be reached at [email protected] or you can reach her at 1-778-471-5789.
The 2014 Junior All Native Basketball Tournament (JANT) will take place March 17-21, 2014 in Kamloops, BC – “Canada’s Tournament Capital”. Our mission is to “Empower British Columbia Aboriginal communities though sports”.262 Lorne StreetKamloops BCV2C 1W1Phone – 250-828-3823Email – [email protected]
BC Native Women’s AssociationPresents: TRU Aboriginal Resource DayAboriginal House of Learning Wednesday March 19th, 2014 12:00 to 2 P.M.Join us for an evening of information, fun and prizes. Resource agency information will be available at this event There will be short presentations to explain programs, services, support available in our community, so don’t miss out!For a complete schedule, see our ad at our Meet Up page. Pizza will be provided!!!AND Quilt making144 Briar Ave, Kamloops, BC
March 9, 16, & 23rd from 12:00 to 3:00 PMJoin us for an afternoon Quilt making (Our goal is to make quilts for the Homeless Action Week).For a complete schedule, see our ad at our Meet Up page. Light snack will be provided!!!Phone Barb Morin, President, BCNWABCNWA & Minerva SponsoredPhone: (250) 461-9880Co-sponsored by MinervaAt the ATEC building 144 Briar Ave
2014 24th Annual Kamloops All Native Basketball Tournament April 18-20. Mens, South Kam Secondary, Womens, Beattie School of Arts,-John Peterson Campus. For more information contact Kerri Jo Fortier @ 250-0371-1653 or email; [email protected]
BC NATIVE WOMEN’S ASSOCIATIONPresents: Aboriginal Women’s Retreat144 Briar Ave, Kamloops, BCSaturday March 22, 2014 12:00 to 3:00 PMJoin us for an evening of fun and prizes. Resource agency information will be available at this event There will be short presentations to explain programs, services, support available in our community, so don’t miss out!For a complete schedule, see our ad at our Meet Up page. Pizza will be provided!!!Phone Barb Morin, President, BCNWABCNWA & Minerva Sponsored
SHUSWAP GATHERING WILL BE HOSTED BY NESKONLITH BAND THIS YEAR. more info to follow.
Tomma Annual Gathering at 2124 Little Shuswap Lk. Rd. E Squilax, BC. Stick Game prize money will be1st $1000 2nd $700 3rd $500 4th $400 5th $300 and 6th $200. Come Feast with us at 3:00 pm and Celebrate on June 14th, 2014. For more information contact Rocky Tomma 1-778-220-3077
SHUSWAP NATION TRIBAL COUNCIL MTGS:* Elders Council Mtg is the last Thursday of each month, the next mtg will be announced. * Youth Meeting is Mar. 10, 2014 at 5:30 pm at the SNTC building. For more information you can contact Reanna Leonard.* Unity Meeting was hosted by WPIB/Canoe March 7, 2014. Update to follow.
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Yi7éne te mégcen wes re tsímtes re swuct ne ctsetém. M-tsétskwe7mes te sgwígwle ne setétkwe.
M-yews re snesnés te pésellkwe es yéwems tek písell.This is the month the snow melted in the valley. They fished with a pit lamp for steelhead in the river. Then they would
go to the lake and dip net for rainbow trout.
Don’t miss the14th ANNUAL CHIEF ATAHM LANGUAGE CONFERENCEThompson Rivers University, Kamloops, BC
USER GUIDE Getting Started Welcome to the FirstVoices Language Tutor. This document is designed for you to print as a quick reference guide to help you begin using the application. We hope that you will find the Language Tutor to be intuitive and easy to use. If you still have questions after reading this document please do not hesitate to contact us at [email protected]. Signing up for an Account To sign up for a Language Tutor account:
1. Select the Create a New Account link, located to the right of your screen 2. Fill in the appropriate text fields then select the language in which you
wish to take your lessons and click Next
Note: You may select multiple languages
USER GUIDE Getting Started Welcome to the FirstVoices Language Tutor. This document is designed for you to print as a quick reference guide to help you begin using the application. We hope that you will find the Language Tutor to be intuitive and easy to use. If you still have questions after reading this document please do not hesitate to contact us at [email protected]. Signing up for an Account To sign up for a Language Tutor account:
1. Select the Create a New Account link, located to the right of your screen 2. Fill in the appropriate text fields then select the language in which you
wish to take your lessons and click Next
Note: You may select multiple languages
Begin on-line Secwepemc Language Les-sonsMake yourself an account - go to http://www.firstvoices.com and on the right side of the page click on Language Tutor, then select Create Learner Account
Select Secwepemc - SCES *note you may select multiple, however some domains do not yet have published lessonsYou will then be directed to the login page, *remember Secwepemc - SCES for the organization codeSign inSelect My Training and select the lesson you wish to do and press launch
....begin learning Secwepemctsín!
Me7 qweqwentsin-kt - We will Praya Meal Prayer
Tqelt-Kúkwpi7,Yiri7 re skukwstéc-kucw re skectéc-kucw ne7élye te s7íllens-kucw.Yiri7 re skukwstéc-kucw re skectéc-kucw te sqlélten, te teníye, ell te ts’i7 re skecmentsút.s es c7ell7íllens-kucw.Tqelt-Kúkwpi7,Le7 re skectéc ne7élye te skwenllq es ta7es k stektsíllens re kwséltktens-kucw ne7élye te melúlkw.Tqelt-Kúkwpi7,Yiri7 re skukwstéc-kucw re skectéc-kucw te kwséltktens-kucw es le7 es kúlens ne7élye re ts’i7, re swewell, re skwenllq, xwexwéyt re stem ne7élye re sc7ell7íllens-kucw pyin te sitqt.Wenécwem yiri7 re skukwstéc-kucw,Knúcwente-kuc es kwemtús es yucwmenstwécws-kucw ell es knucwentwécw-kucw es kwemtús ne7élye re lé7es re sw7ec-kt tmicw-kt.T’ucw ts’ílem.
Tsítslem te sqweqlút : Meal Prayer Vocabularyskukwstéc-kucw We thank youskectéc-kucw you give/gave to usskecmentsút to give oneself upsqlélten salmonteníye moosets’i7 deer/meat/fleshskwenllq garden foodstekstsíllen to starvekwséltkten relatives, familypyin te sitqt todaywenécwem truly, reallykwemtús alwaysxwexwéyt re stem all thingsyucwmentwécw to look after one anothertmicw country, land
Forms with Piqwen – to look at itCommand to one person – You look at it – PiqwentePíqwente yi7éne Look at thisPíqwente yérey Look at thatPíqwente re ts i7 Look at the deer
I looked at it – Pipqwen Pípqwen yi7éne I looked at thisPípqwen yeréy I looked at thatPípqwen re ts i7 I looked at the deer
You looked at it - PiqwencPíqwenc yi7éne You looked at thisPíqwenc yeréy You looked at thatPíqwenc re ts i7 You looked at the deer
She/he/it looked at it – PiqwensPíqwens yi7ene She looked at thisPíqwens yeréy She looked at thatPíqwens re ts i7 She looked at the deer
You people looked at it – PiqwentpPíqwentp yi7éne You people looked at thisPíqwentp yeré7 You people looked at thatPíqwentp re ts i7 You people looked at the deer
We all (inclusive) looked at it – Piqwentem *inclusive..includes who you are speaking to, exclusive does not include who you are speaking to Píqwentem yi7éne We all looked at thisPíqwentem yeré7 We all looked at thatPíqwentem re ts i7 We all looked at the deer
We all (exclusive) looked at it – Piqwentem-kucwPíqwentem-kucw yi7éne We looked at thisPíqwentem-kucw yeré7 We looked at thatPíqwentem-kucw re ts i7 We looked at the deer
Signing up for an AccountTo sign up for a Language Tutor Account:” 1. Select the Create a New Account link, located to the right of your screen 2. Fill in the appropriate text fields then select the language in which you wish to take your lessons and click Next
4 MARCH 2014Secwepemc NEWS
Xeni Gwet’in Chief Roger William (left) drums to open a meeting in Ottawa while Tsilhqo’tin Tribal Chair Joe Alphonse and National Chief Shawn Atleo look on, February 2014— Image Credit: Sage Birchwater/Fish Lake Alliance
Crown jewel on table in Cariboo-Fish Lake Alliance
by Tom Fletcher - BC Local Newsposted Mar 4, 2014 at 10:00 AMVICTORIA – The New Prosperity mineral deposit near Williams Lake is described by the industry as one of the largest in the world, containing 5.3 billion pounds of copper and 13.3 million ounces of gold. The Harper government’s decision to reject open-pit mine development for a second time is seen by elected officials in the Cariboo region as a disaster. One of Quesnel’s sawmills is preparing to close for good, and I’ve been told there is more to come as the post-pine beetle era unfolds. Here in the B.C. capital, the decision is mainly viewed as a huge mistake. Taseko Mines is going to court to show that the federal panel used the wrong design when reviewing the company’s expensively revised plan. The province has permitted two successful mines that operate in the same area, one of which is run by Taseko. In Ottawa, this is a Supreme Court of Canada test case over who owns the land and the mineral wealth underneath. In traditional Canadian law, the province owns it. This was highlighted in the recent discussion between B.C. Premier Christy Clark and Alberta’s Alison Redford over royalties from oil. Prime Minister Stephen Harper emphasized the unresolved land claim that hangs over the project in his comments at a mining conference in Toronto this week. Six aboriginal communities make up the Tsilhqot’in Nation, which has a long and bitter history of resistance against the Crown. They almost won a declaration of title to 40,000 hectares known as the Nemiah Valley: forests, wild horses, minerals and all, in a 339-day trial that ended in 2007.
Their case suffered a setback at the B.C. Court of Appeal, and is now before the highest court. Aboriginal rights have been established, but this would be the first clear title. Tsilhqot’in tribal chair Joe Alphonse was pleasantly surprised to see Taseko turned down again. He said the Tsilhqot’in National Government is releasing its own mining policies soon. “We welcome opportunities to look at projects that are environmentally sound and we need economic opportunities,” Alphonse told the Williams Lake Tribune. Somehow efforts to move mine waste rock from Teztan Biny (Fish Lake) to a sealed storage site two kilometres away are not enough to protect groundwater, although they are sufficient at the nearby Gibraltar and Mount Polley mines. And Alphonse makes it clear this mysterious environmental problem will be solved once he and his fellow chiefs have control of the resource. A Supreme Court of Canada ruling on aboriginal title is required to settle this. If some limited form of title is at last defined for the treaty-less majority of B.C., or at least Tsilhqot’in territory, the fate of the mine may become clear. Conventional wisdom on this is that the mining company didn’t try hard enough to establish a working relationship with the Tsilhqot’in. For his part, Taseko CEO Russell Hallbauer says the chiefs refused to meet with him, which isn’t surprising from a group that doesn’t recognize the B.C. forests ministry either. Here’s a sample of the volume of evidence that may determine the future of B.C.
Archeological studies presented at trial describe “18 roasting and/or pit depressions” at Teztan Biny. It’s not clear if these were for seasonal food preparation or for pit houses, which would indicate a more permanent settlement at the lake. Nor is it clear whether these “cultural depressions” have been identified as being of Tsilhqot’in origin. Oral histories are also uncertain. Tsilhqot’in witnesses testified that Teztan Biny has been used in the 20th century as a hunting and fishing camp. The mine was rejected due to ill-defined cultural as well as environmental concerns. B.C. residents could finally see some answers this year.
Charleyboy states his support for Prosperity MineWL Tribune After years of opposing Mining in the Chilcotin Territory. It’s no surprise that Ervin Charleyboy supports the proposed New Prosperity Mine Project west of Williams Lake.Charleyboy ran for chief in his home community of Redstone earlier this year, and campaigned in support of the mine. He lost the election to Chief Percy Guichon. Recently Charleyboy has created and distributed a pamphlet advocating that it’s time to speak out in favour of the mine. When he was asked if he’s employed by Taseko Mines Ltd., Charleyboy said he does “a lot of” different things for them, but is not employed by the company. In August Taseko worked on a watershed restoration project at Puntzi Creek, a tributary of the Chilcotin River, and Charleyboy helped recruit employees for the project, he said. “I don’t speak on behalf of Taseko or the Tsilqot’in people, this is the way I see things,” Charleyboy said. “I was a chief for 20 years in my community and I don’t see any employment for the people. When forestry is not going to be there much longer, what is there for our young people?” Charleyboy said people speaking against the mine are “activists, people like Mining Watch Canada, Council of Canadians and a bunch of other people that are from out of this country, that don’t even know what the country looks like, yet they’re speaking against the mine.”
Critical of letters to the editor, opposing the mine, Charleyboy said the mine is not going to hurt fish. “When I look at Gibraltar Mine and Cuisson Lake which is half a mile from the mine, and everything flows into the Fraser River, it hasn’t hurt the fish. Nobody’s died from eating the salmon out of there.” Charleyboy said he doesn’t understand the opposition of Tsilqot’in chiefs to New Prosperity. Tsilqot’in National Government chair and Anaham Chief Joe Alphonse remains strongly opposed to the project. He has not seen Charleyboy’s pamphlet, but said he would rather not get into an argument with Charleyboy’s opinion. “I think Ervin is entitled to his opinion, but I think it’s sad that he’s taken this position,” Alphonse said. “We understand that we all need to feed our families and he has to do what he has to do.” Charleyboy suggested there should be a referendum among First Nations to find out if people in communities are in favour or against the mine project. Alphonse said a referendum would only embarrass those in favour of the mine. “All you have to get is 51 per cent for a referendum to pass. We would be well beyond that,” Alphonse said, adding economic future isn’t just about money.
“It’s about taking care of the land and our future.”
pelltsipwen’ten 2014 Secwepemc NEWS 5
CFDC of Central Interior
First NationsJackie BanduraJordan George Dale Tomma
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#215-345 Yellowhead HwyKamloops, BC V2H 1H1Phone: 250-828-9725Fax:250-828-9972Email: [email protected]
Seven Sacred TeachingsThe traditional ideals of respect and sharing that form the base of the Aboriginal way of life are built around the seven sacred teachings.Each law is taught by an animal to teach the lessons that all actions and decisions made by us are done on a physical plane. The animals have taught us how to live close to the earth, and the connection that has been established between the animals and us hasinstilled a respect for all life in those who follow the traditional Aboriginal way.
Wisdom ~ BeaverThe building of a community is entirely dependent on gifts given to each member by the creator and how these gifts are used. The Beaver’s example of using his sharp teeth for cutting trees and branches to build his dams and lodges expresses this teaching. If he did not use his teeth, the teeth would continue to grow until they became useless, ultimately making it impossible for him to sustain himself. The same can be said for human beings. One’s spirit will grow weak if it is not fulfilling its use. When used properly however, these gifts contribute to the development of a peaceful and healthy community.
Love ~ EagleTo feel true love is to know the Creator. Therefore, it is expected that one’s first love is to be the Great Spirit. He is considered the father of all children, and the giver of human life. Love given to the Great Spirit is expressed through love of oneself, and it is understood that if one cannot love oneself, it is impossible to love anyone else.The Eagle was chosen by the Great Spirit to represent this law, as the Eagle can reach the highest out of all the creatures in bringing pure vision to the seeker. Though the purveyor of the greatest and most powerful medicine, love can also be the most elusive of the teachings, as it depends upon a world that acknowledges the importance of spirituality.
Respect ~ BuffaloThe Buffalo, through giving it’s life and sharing every part of it’s being, showed the deep respect it had for the people. No animal was more important to the existence of Indigenous families than this animal, and it’s gift provided shelter, clothing and utensils for daily living. Native people believed themselves to be true caretakers of the great herds, and developed a sustainable relationship with the Buffalo resulting in a relationship that was a true expression of respect.
Courage/Bravery ~ BearThe Bear provides many lessons in the way it lives, but courage is the most important teaching it offers. Though gentle by nature, the ferociousness of a mother Bear when one of her cubs is approached is the true definition of courage. To have the mental and moral strength to overcome fears that prevent us from living our true spirit as human
beings is a great challenge that must be met with the same vigor and intensity as a mother Bear protecting her cub. Living of the heart and living of the spirit is difficult, but the Bear’s example shows us how to face any danger to achieve these goals.Honesty ~ SasquatchNorth American Aboriginal culture follows closely an animal called Sasquatch. Sasquatch walks among the people to remind them to be honest to the laws of the creator and honest to each other. The highest honor that could be bestowed upon an individual was the saying “There walks an honest man. He can be trusted.” To be truly honest was to keep the promises one made to the Creator, to others and to oneself. The Elders would say, “Never try to be someone else; live true to your spirit, be honest to yourself and accept who you are the way the Creator made you.”
Humility ~ WolfRecognizing and acknowledging that there is a higher power than man and it is known as the Creator is to be deemed truly humble. To express deference or submission to the Creator through the acceptance that all beings are equal is to capture the spirit of humility. The expression of this humility is manifested through the consideration of others before ourselves. In this way, the Wolf became the teacher of this lesson. He bows his head in the presence of others out of deference, and once hunted, will not take of the food until it can be shared with the pack. His lack of arrogance and respect for his community is a hard lesson, but integral in the Aboriginal way.
Truth ~ TurtleTo know truth is to know and understand all of the original laws as given by the Creator- and to remain faithful to them. It is said that in the beginning, when the Creator made man and gave him the seven sacred laws, the Grandmother Turtle was present to ensure that the laws would never be lost or forgotten. On the back of a Turtle are the 13 moon, each representing the truth of one cycle of the Earth’s rotations around the sun. The 28 markings on her back represent the cycle of the moon an of a woman’s body. The shell of the Turtle represents the body real events as created by the Higher Power, and serves as a reminder of the Creator’s will and teachings..
Fraudsters are impersonating Canada Revenue Agency officers to target Lower Mainland residents with a new phone scam that keys on income tax season. It’s not on the list of top 10 scams for 2014 announced Friday by the Better Business Bureau because reports have just begun to surface about the unlikely sounding fraud. Scammers who claim to be federal revenue agents accuse victims of owing back taxes and warn a warrant for their arrest will be issued if they don’t pay up pronto. “They’re quite threatening and they’re quite aggressive,” Vancouver Police Det.-Const. Linda Grange said. Victims are persuaded to buy gift cards in amounts of up to $2,500 from major retailers and phone back with the activation codes. In two recent cases, the cards were for Home Depot and Safeway. Other victims sent money orders. “They’re very convincing,” Grange said. “You panic and you think there’s a warrant and all of a sudden you’re running off to the store to get a gift card.” The scam may become “quite prevalent” as the deadline to file income tax returns nears, she said. Grange said the VPD also continues to field large numbers of complaints about fraudulent ticket selling through online sites. “If you’re going to buy a ticket on Craigslist or Kijiji or any other website there’s a huge, huge chance it’s fraud,” she said, estimating over half of tickets advertised on the two big free classifieds sites are bogus. “You’re not going to get to the concert or event. You’re going to lose your money. It’s rampant.” Some sellers purport to have a receipt for the tickets, giving an impression of
Income Tax Scams COMING NEAR YOU - BEWARE !!legitimacy, but the receipt is usually a fake as well. Grange said some perpetrators caught recently by investigators turned out to be young kids who were even more convincing because they talked about having to get home to do homework. “They make you trust them, but you can’t trust them because they’re taking up to $1,000, putting it in their pocket and they walk off.” She recommends using only authorized sellers. Better Business Bureau of Mainland B.C. president and CEO Danielle Primrose said one of the top 10 scams highlighted for this year targets Instagram users. Scammers post images on the photo-sharing app of tempting prize giveaways, purportedly from big brands and retailers. But the images link to other websites that try to get credit card information and Instagram users end up helping the scam by widely sharing in order to qualify for the fake contest. Primrose said spammers are also increasingly using fake or real gossip about celebrities like Justin Bieber and Miley Cyrus to get social media users to spread bogus content, which sometimes takes victims to sites that install malware on their computers. Other scams on this year’s top 10 list include romance scams by phoney beaus on online dating websites, as well long-running problems like curbers – unlicensed car dealers selling lemons from parking lots or lottery mail scams.Many people also continue to fall for “enterprise fee scams” where they’re persuaded they must make an upfront fee payment to unlock a larger sum of money. “Do you really need to pay money to win money? Absolutely not,” cautioned Manjit Bains of Consumer Protection B.C.
6 MARCH 2014Secwepemc NEWS
Carey Price brings home THE GOLD Just two hours after stepping off a plane in Montreal Monday, Anahim Lake’s Carey Price was mobbed by a throng of reporters all hoping to catch a glimpse of the gold medal and Canada’s newest Olympic gold-medal goaltender. A day after capturing gold over Sweden with Canada’s men’s Olympic hockey team and finishing the tournament with two shutouts, a perfect 5-0 record, a .59 goals against average and a 97.2 save percentage — a humble, modest Price simply said he was honoured to be part of such an opportunity. “It was a complete effort from everybody,” Price told reporters at the Bell Centre in Montreal Monday, the home of his National Hockey League team, the Montreal Canadiens. “No matter what position the guys were put in, everybody contributed in some way, and I think that was probably the most special feeling. Everybody out on that ice when our anthem was played had a part in it in some way.” Price opened the tournament leading Canada to a 3-1 win over Norway on Feb. 13, before Vancouver Canucks’ netminder Roberto Luongo stepped in to help the team to a 6-0 shutout over Austria on Feb. 14. From there, however, the tournament was all Price as he and Team Canada posted wins over Finland on Feb. 16 (2-1, preliminaries), Latvia on Feb. 18 (2-1, quarterfinal), the U.S. on Feb. 21 (1-0, semifinal) and Sweden on Feb. 23 (3-0, final). With back-to-back shutouts in the tournament Price now has the fourth-longest shutout streak in Olympic hockey history. “That was essentially it [the way I approached the tournament],” he said. “The next save. It came down to getting prepared for each practice, getting prepared for pre-game skate, getting prepared for warmup, getting prepared for the game, and that philosophy is paying off.” Following Sunday’s gold-medal presentation Price and his dad, also former goaltender Jerry Price, shared a moment backstage at the Bolshoy Ice Dome in Sochi, Russia, where Price proudly draped his newly-acquired gold-medal around his father’s neck. Jerry, Price’s mom Lynda, sister Kayla and wife, Angela, all made the trip to Russia to support him. Earlier in the tournament, Price told reporters he feels truly blessed to be where he’s at. “I obviously owe a lot of people a lot to get me where I’m at and I’m truly grateful for all the support,” he said, adding he’s thankful to his dad, who spent countless hours driving him, then eventually flying him in an airplane, to minor hockey practices and games in Williams Lake. “My dad’s a quiet guy. He’s a man of few words, but he’s always been there for me. My mom, my sister and also my wife everybody back home in Northern B.C. Everybody’s been so supportive my whole career.” He added as a kid growing up he never imagined he’d be backstopping Team Canada to an Olympic gold. “Coming from a small community I never dreamed I’d be in the position I got put in, and it reflects that no matter where you’re from, or how remote, or how far you feel from everything that anything is possible,” he said. British Columbians, including dozens of Williams Lake residents, along with Mayor Kerry Cook and Coun. Danica Hughes who chose to watch the game in the Gibraltar Room, will likely always remember waking up at 4 a.m. to cheer on Price and Team Canada to a gold medal.
For Immediate Release: Federal Court of Appeal Denies Canada’s Jurisdictional Challenge In a decision released on Friday, February 28, 2014, a three judge panel of the Federal Court of Appeal unanimously dismissed Canada’s latest challenge in the proposed Day Scholars Class Action lawsuit. Canada had been seeking to have the lawsuit stopped in Federal Court, which would have forced the plaintiffs to start again in the B.C. Supreme Court.
The Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc Indian Band and the Sechelt Indian Band, on behalf of the bands and band members launched the Day Scholars Class Action Law Suit against Canada in 2012 to seek compensation for those band members who attended Indian Residential Schools, but who did not live at the schools. Canada has yet to defend the lawsuit, but has taken various steps to attempt to slow down the process of certification.
In its latest move, Canada brought claims against various religious organizations, a move which would have shifted the whole lawsuit to the B.C. Supreme Court leading to an increased delay before certification. Justice Harrington of the Federal Court denied Canada’s motion, the appeal of which was the current court proceeding.
Writing for a unanimous panel, Justice Marc Noël determined that there was no problem with the Federal Court maintaining jurisdiction over any claims brought by Canada against the churches. He found that at the heart of both the main claim and any third party lawsuits was “the honour of the Crown, the heightened duty which is cast on the Crown in its dealings with Aboriginal peoples.”
This honour of the Crown will play a central role in the future steps of this litigation. The Federal Court of Appeal has clearly recognized that what is at issue
in the Day Scholars Class Action is whether the heightened duty of Canada and the honour of the Crown created an obligation by Canada to protect the language and culture of Canada’s aboriginal populations, and whether any failure to live up to that duty must be compensated.
Chief Shane Gottfriedson stated:” this is a huge victory for us, this sets the stage towards certification,. Our goal is to always seek justice for our people through challenges in the legal processes that are always put before us! I am very ecstatic of the outcome.” Chief Gottfriedson also stated “we are pleased to see that the Federal Court of Appeal understands the significance of the honour of the Crown in its dealings with our people, and how they failed when they implemented the Residential Schools Policy – Chief Garry Feschuk stated that “ it is time for Canada to stop trying to tie this litigation up in procedural knots, and to allow this to move forward to certification, the Federal Court of Appeal, and Justice Harrington in the Federal Court agree that this matter is important and needs to move forward quickly.
Canada’s claims against the religious organizations were recently dismissed by the Federal Court, and are currently under appeal to the Federal Court of Appeal.
pelltsipwen’ten 2014 Secwepemc NEWS 7
After many years of striving to obtain a location for new office space, All Nations Trust Company is pleased to announce our efforts have been realized. ANTCO will be moving into a new office located on the T’kemlups Indian Reserve in February 2014. On January 22, ANTCO was honored to have in attendance Wolf Chief William Moore, Killer Whale Chief Willard Martin and Chief Administrative Officer Andrew Robinson from Laxgalts’ap Village Government for a totem pole raising ceremony. The guests were welcomed to the Secwepemc territory by T’kemlups te Secwepemc elders Freda Jules and Jo-Anne Gottfriedson and acting Chief Katy Gottfriedson who also carried out a traditional Secwepemc blessing ceremony. ANTCO and Laxgalts’ap Village joined together in the past to create a program centered on teaching youth the skills and
All Nations Trust Moves Into New Location
cultural importance of totem pole carving. The pole was carved by 3 very talented carvers who participated in the program at Laxgalts’ap. The new building is a unique design encompassing the natural settings of the region. Okanagan artist Clint George has captured the essence of the phoenix that is ANTCO’s symbol. He has also embraced the significance of the tribal regions with the different pictographs portrayed on the exterior of the building. A big thank you to T’kemlups First Nation for welcoming and assisting in the blessing ceremony of the totem as well as to D & T Developments for all their hard work and dedication in helping our dream of a new office come to fruition.
ANTCO is looking forward to many years of prosperity serving Aboriginal Communities at our new location.
Business of the Year - Factory Direct Furniture, Tom and Karen AlphonseTom and Karen Alphonse opened the doors of Factory Direct in Williams Lake in March 2012. Tom and Karen are long-standing residents of Williams Lake First Nation and have been involved in business for most of their lives. Being established community members they know their clientele well and understand the market. Factory Direct sells high quality wood furniture at affordable prices. Tom and Karen pride themselves on outstanding and personalized customer service. Congratulations Tom and Karen!
Business Of The Year Award
BC Native Women’s Association
THURSDAY MARCH 27, 2014 Annual General Assembly (5:00-6:00 pm)
GALA DINNER-EVERONE WELCOME! (6:30-8:00)
$30 Ticket (BCNWA Members $25) ($180 per table) CONTACT BCNWA (250) 554-4556
Holiday Inn North Shore Kamloops BC 675 Tranquille Road (250) 554-4556
Every member shall be an Aboriginal (First Nations/Metis/Inuit) female who will promote the goals of the Society which include:
* Preserving Aboriginal culture, history, and language * Advancing equal opportunity for Aboriginal women
* Lobbying and advocating for programs, services, support and legislative changes that will support Aboriginal women * Networking and advancing Aboriginal women in education
* Other concerns as directed by the membership
KEYNOTE SPEAKER: Doreen Manuel (Neskonlith Indian Band), Capilano University
Aboriginal Film Program Traditional Drumming: Simpcw Drum Group
Entertainment: Ken Thomas Secwepemc Storytelling Cultural Arts & Crafts Vendors, Loonie Auction, 50/50 Draw!
Congratulations All Nations Trust from the Board and Staff of SCES
8 MARCH 2014Secwepemc NEWS
HAPPY 92ND BIRTHDAY TO MARGARET ABEL (nee Bennett) and Her Daughter Lena, March 11th, 2014 and Wishing Them Both Many, Many More Happy Years Ahead. ~This is a 5th-Generation photo taken of Margaret with Scarlett~
10 days 14 films2 parties10 guests confirmed
KAMLOOPS
FILMFESTIVALMARCH 6-15
2014
paramount theatre
find out more at: www.kamloopsfilmfest.ca
march 6-15
KAMLOOPS
FILMFESTIVALMARCH 6-15
2014
If I Had Wings | Saturday, March 8 @ 3pm
with special guests in attendance
at the Paramount Theatre
If I Had Wings, our family-friendly feature, promises to be a family affair all around, as the Harmons (and their friends) who all worked on the film, will be in attendance for the post screening Q&A. The multi talented family includes veteran director uAllan (Street Legal, Police Academy: The Series, Afghan Knights, Wolf Canyon), producer vCynde (Trust, Wolf Canyon, Shana: The Wolf’s Music) and their actor children,
wRichard (Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief, The Killing, Bates Motel) and xJessica (The New Addams Family, Agent Cody Banks, Arrow). They will be joined by fellow actors yGenevieve Buechner (The Final Cut, Jennifer’s Body) and Canadian film and TV veteran zLorne Cardinal (Corner Gas, Insomnia, Arctic Air). With such a great guest turnout, our audience will get real insight into the Canadian film industry and what it’s like to produce a film in BC.
Answering Your Questions on Diabetes This is the sixty second article in a series of articles discussing type 2 diabetes. With the incidence of diabetes being on the rise in our population, at Manshadi Phar-macy we have taken a great interest in dia-betes care and would be happy to answer any questions that you may have regarding the diagnosis, treatment, and management of diabetes and its related complications. InthisarticleIwouldliketotake
Secwepemc Nation Children in Care Statistical Overview 2012 - 2014
ofhalfyourplatevegetables,aquarterawholegrainorstarch,andandaquarteraproteinandstayingawayfromrefinedorprocessedfoods.Sincerely, Laura Burgess, B.Sc. Pharm., Certified Diabetes EducatorPharmacist, Manshadi Pharmacy
10 MARCH 2014Secwepemc NEWS
WILLIAMS LAKE INDIAN BAND FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEMarch 4, 2014
WILLIAMS LAKE, B.C. -- On Friday, February 28th the Specific Claims Tribunal released its decision finding that the Williams Lake Band was wrongfully dispossessed of its village lands in Williams Lake in the late 19th century. Judge Harry Slade held Canada accountable for the Crown’s failure to protect these village lands from non-Indian settlement.“We’re elated with the Tribunal’s decision,” said the Band’s Chief Ann Louie. “For over 150 years our Chiefs and Elders have been decrying the fact that we were pushed off our village lands. This decision clearly says our dispossession from our lands was wrong.”The facts of the claim go back over 150 years, to colonial times. The Colony, under the leadership of Governor Douglas, had a long standing policy of protecting Indian villages for the benefit of Indian tribes. So, while the Colony was encouraging settlers to come to British Columbia and to take up lands, settlers were prohibited by law from taking up lands that were the sites of Indian villages or settlements.In the mid-19th century, the Band had a village site in what is now known as Williams Lake. It was there that they had cabins, houses, a church, and gravesites. These were also the lands they used to sustain their way of life.In 1879, Chief William, wrote a letter that was published in the British Colonist newspaper and widely circulated, describing his peoples’ desperate condition on account of the settlers’ actions: The land on which my people lived for five hundred years was taken by a white man; he has piles of wheat and herds of cattle. We have nothing ─ not an acre. Another white man has enclosed the graves in which the ashes of our fathers rest, and we may live to see their bones turned over by the plough. The Tribunal’s decision confirms that colonial and federal officials, knowing full well the circumstances, failed to do their jobs to protect the Band’s village lands. Officials should have never let the Band’s village lands be taken up by settlers. And, when they found out that these lands had been pre-empted, they should have taken the lands back for the Band’s benefit. “The hurt described by Chief William, the pain of having our lands taken from us, has been passed on from generation to generation,” said Chief Louie. “Our former Chiefs and Elders instilled in me the need to resolve this wrong. With Judge Slade’s decision we received the vindication we have all been fighting for.” Chief Louie praised her community for never giving up on the claim. At the oral hearing held on the Sugarcane Reserve in October 2012, a number of Band members testified about the peoples’ ancestral and ongoing connections with the village lands. One of the witnesses who testified was Elder Agnes Anderson, the great-granddaughter of Chief William, and grandmother to Chief Louie. Mrs. Anderson passed away in March of 2013. “My grandma and our other Elders are smiling down on the Band today,” said Chief Louie.The Specific Claims Tribunal is an independent and impartial body that was established by the federal government in 2008. As promised by the Prime Minister and the Minister of Indian Affairs, the Tribunal provides resolution, once and for all, for First Nations’ historic grievances. The Tribunal issues final and binding decisions that allow the federal government and First Nations to achieve closure on claims and reduce the time and expenses associated with litigation. The
Tribunal has the power to award monetary compensation only; it cannot order that lands be returned. Arguments as to the amount of money owing to the Band will be dealt with in the next phase of the proceedings before the Tribunal. “We are hopeful that Canada will act honourably in response to the Tribunal’s decision,” said Chief Louie. “The path to reconciliation requires a fair and just resolution of this long outstanding grievance.” For more information, please contact please contact Kirk Dressler, Williams Lake Indian Band Communications Officer at (250) 296-3507 ext. 116 or [email protected]
Specific Claims Tribunal Rules in Favour of Band in Village Lands Claim
Recently, Nathan Matthew, Executive Director of Aboriginal Education informed me that he will be leaving TRU effective 1 June 2014. Six years ago Nathan began his career at TRU as Advisor to the President for Aboriginal issues. He is currently responsible for fostering the success of Aboriginal students and ensuring
that TRU maintains strong relationships with First Nations communities. In 2006 TRU awarded Nathan a Doctor of Letters, honoris causa for his contributions to the advancement of First Nations education. A member of the Simpcw First Nation and a former tribal chief of the Shuswap Nation Tribal Council, Nathan’s lifelong involvement in education and his broad experience of First Nations community development has made him an effective bridge between TRU and First Nations communities and Aboriginal organizations. His conviction that education is essential to enhance the overall health and well-being of Aboriginal people has made him an effective advocate for positive change within TRU, the Province and Canada. Nathan states that the most rewarding part of his time at TRU has been developing programs and services that enhance the educational experience of Aboriginal students and being able to associate himself with the hardworking, dedicated students, faculty and staff of the university. Nathan plans to continue his volunteer work in the Simpcw community, assisting in the development of a comprehensive framework for education programming and sitting on the Community Heritage Fund committee that distributes funding within the community for worthy projects. Nathan will also maintain his position as senior negotiator for First Nations schools in British Columbia, addressing the unique challenges facing First Nations schools. Nathan plans to relax a bit and get caught up with his fishing. He looks forward to pursuing his continuing research in the areas of First Nations rights and education. There will be opportunities to celebrate Nathan’s contributions to TRU in the future but today, on behalf of the students, faculty and staff of TRU I extend our sincere appreciation to Nathan and wish him all the best in his future endeavours. I also extend my personal thanks; it has been a pleasure working with and learning from Nathan. The search for a new Executive Director of Aboriginal Education will commence immediately.Sincerely, Alan Shaver - President and Vice-ChancellorThompson Rivers UniversityPhone: 250-828-5001Email: [email protected]
Aborginal Education Director Leaving TRU
The federal government has lost its bid to overturn a British Columbia court decision that recognized First Nations’ rights to a commercial fishery. The Supreme Court of Canada announced Wednesday it has dismissed Ottawa’s application for leave to appeal the lower court decisions, bringing an end a long legal fight with five of the Nuu-chah-nulth nations of Vancouver Island. “The decision is an overwhelming victory for the Nuu-chah-nulth Nation, who have spent more than a decade fighting the case,” said Deb Foxcroft, President of the tribal council. “The Nuu-cha-nulth people have always been involved in commercial fishery but they’ve been pushed out of this fishery because of the government’s policies and regulations.” The five bands — the Ahousaht, Ehattesaht/Chinekint, Hesquiaht, Mowachaht/ Muchalaht, and Tla-o-qui-aht — said fisheries formed the backbone of their trading economy long before the arrival of Europeans. They argued, successfully, that translates into a right to conduct a modern commercial fishery for fish and shellfish, and not just a subsistence food fishery. The federal government challenged the claim. The B.C. government, B.C. Wildlife Federation, B.C. Seafood Alliance and the Underwater Harvesters Research Society were interveners in the case. An official at Fisheries Minister Gail Shea’s office declined a request for an interview with the minister, saying DFO is currently reviewing the decision. While the original 909-page B.C. Supreme Court ruling in November 2009 recognized the bands’ right to fish and sell fish within their territories, it was not an unrestricted commercial right. The Nuu-chah-nulth will have to negotiate the terms of their commercial fishery with the federal government, which has jurisdiction for fisheries management. Foxcroft said the Nuu-chah-nulth have attempted negotiations since the original court decision, to no avail. “We call upon Canada to seize this opportunity to implement our Nuu-chah-nulth fishing rights,” she said. Shawn A-in-chut Atleo, the national chief of the Assembly of First Nations and a member of the Ahousaht First Nation, said the high court’s decision means Ottawa has no more legal recourse and must negotiate. “It’s been an 11-year court battle and we’re feeling elated that the highest court in the land has upheld and affirmed our rights,” Atleo said in an interview. “Now it’s time for the Department of Fisheries and Oceans and Canada >>>>>>
Tell us about a Special Elder in your life! Do you have a special Elder in your life that inspires you? For the next ‘Elders Health’ issue of Spirit Magazine we want to publish 100 words or less from you on an important Elder in your life.Email us your submission including your Elders name and a high-resolution photo if you have one to [email protected] for your chance to win a year’s subscription to Spirit Magazine! Take a look at our past issues of Spirit here: www.fnha.ca/wellness/spirit-magazine
Continued..........to meaningfully come to the table and implement this decision with Nuu-chah-nulth as full partners.” As the lead plaintiff in the case for his community, Atleo said the federal government should not be fighting First Nations on these rights. Atleo said the end of the legal odyssey has implications for First Nations across the country, and not just for fish. This is the latest of 190 court cases that First Nations have won concerning their
aboriginal rights and title to natural resources, Atleo said. The federal government should not be spending millions of dollars fighting First Nations, he added. “It underscores a fundamental need to transform the relationship with Canada. Canada stands on a legal foundation of denial in recognizing and implementing title rights and treaty rights,” Atleo said.“It’s really, truly time to transform the full relationship between First Nations and Canada and for Canada to not be fearful that the recognition of rights is going to somehow take away from others. In fact, shared prosperity can be won for everybody.”Read more: http://www.vancouversun.com/news
Federal Minister of the Environment Leona Aglukkaq announced her highly anticipated decision on the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency website this evening, concluding that the gold-copper mine project at Fish Lake is likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects that cannot be mitigated. “The Governor in Council has determined that those effects are not justified in the circumstances; therefore, the project may not proceed,” the news release stated. This is the second time the federal government has rejected the controversial project, citing significant environmental concerns. In making its decision, the news release stated that the federal government considered the report of the independent Review Panel which conducted a review of the New Prosperity Mine project last summer, and agreed with its findings about the environmental impacts of the project. “The Government of Canada will make decisions based on the best available scientific evidence while balancing economic and environmental considerations,” said Minister Aglukkaq in the news release.
The Minister added, “The Government will continue to make responsible resource development a priority and invites the submission of another proposal that addresses the Government’s concerns.”
It’s a NO for New Prosperity MineIf you would like to see more pictures like
these older ones, go to www.bcarchives.gov.bc.ca or email; access@www.
bcarchives.gov.ca
Tell Us About An Elder In Your
Community
12 MARCH 2014Secwepemc NEWSPresentation by Xat’sull Chief Bev Sellars for the Fifth Gathering of the Latin American Observatory of Mining Conflicts (OCMAL by its initials in Spanish) in Lima, Peru, November 7, 2013.
I would first like to say how pleased I am to be here to have an opportunity to share with diverse indigenous peoples and mining-affected communities of the Americas. I would also like to thank all the organizers of this event to provide the space for these important discussions. It is my first time in South America, but I have always wanted to come and visit. I look forward to coming back and exploring your beautiful country. To begin with, I want to tell you a little bit about where I come from. I am from the Secwepemc tribe in what is now known as British Columbia, Canada and I bring you greetings from all 17 Chiefs of my tribe. My village is called Xat’sull and is the most northern Secwepemc tribe. It is approximately 350 miles north of Vancouver, Canada. The Secwepemc tribe has approximately 10,000 members.
Chief Bev Sellars and Karyn Keenan from the Halifax Initiative at the OCMAL Gathering.
As is the history in your territories, the Indigenous peoples of Canada helped the newcomers adjust to the land. We taught them what plants to eat, how to hunt, what medicines to use, what routes to take to get them to where they wanted to go and anything else they needed to know about the lands. I have always said that the greatest strength Indigenous people have is sharing. Even today, the Indigenous people in Canada are at the bottom of every economic scale and yet we survive because we share what we have with each other. I have to add that our greatest weakness with the newcomers to the land was also sharing. We helped those who came to our lands because sharing was our culture but the newcomers did not share as the Indigenous people. The newcomers have a culture of gathering everything for themselves and placing ‘ownership’ on things they had no right to claim. As a result, horrific relationships with many of the newcomers developed once Indigenous people were no longer needed. A quote from one of the government people in British Columbia in 1858 says it all, when relaying concerns about the situation of gold miners pouring into British Columbia, he said, “It has become the custom of miners generally to shoot an Indian as he would a dog; and it is considered a very good joke to shoot one at long shot, to see him jump as the fatal bullet pierces his heart.” As my Grandmother, who died in 1997 at the age of 101, said, “The Indians saved lots of those White people. They didn’t know how to get around and now they think the Indians are no good.” Shortly after contact with the newcomers, entire Indigenous communities have been continuously traumatized by multiple deaths from disease, expulsion from our homelands, loss of economic and self-sufficiency, forcible removal of children from
our homes and assimilation tactics.* So now fast forward to 2013... the trauma of colonialism is still happening today and Indigenous people in Canada are still attempting to rebuild badly cracked but not completely broken communities. When Statistics Canada released its 2006 census data on Indigenous people, it was shocking to some non-Indigenous people. Even though we are now only approximately 5% of the Canadian population, more than half the Indigenous population in Canada live way under the poverty line; the unemployment rate is three times the national average; 75% of children drop out of school before completing their studies; and the terrible statistics continue in the form of incarceration in prisons, rates of violence, injuries, health problems, suicide, addictions and on and on. All of this taking place in one of the richest countries in the world. The fight to protect the land and our economies continues as well. The Indigenous view that “the land supplies you with everything you need to survive” clashes with the non-Indigenous view that “you have to conquer the land“. Indigenous people in Canada still get a big part of our economy from the land, the animals, the plants for food and medicines and the important good water that supports that economy. But it is becoming more difficult to keep our economy intact. What I call “the false economy” which is based on money alone seems to take precedence over everything. Not only are we fighting major mining companies, but we also are fighting government who seem to be controlled by the mining companies. For example, in our area Taseko Mines wanted to put a $1-billion copper-gold open pit mine into an area that would destroy a lake that the Xeni Gwet’in people have harvested for fish and used for other cultural activities. In 2010, an Independent Environmental Review Panel turned it down because of major concerns to water, wildlife and Indigenous culture. That should have been the end of it but the Federal government allowed the company to redesign its mine plans for another Panel hearing even though Taseko said that the first proposal they put forward was the best they had. Just last week, the Indigenous people in our area welcomed another panel report on the mine proposal with even more concerns and criticisms than were raised about the original proposal. The federal government now has what it needs to finally put a nail in the coffin for this mine, but a spokesman for Taseko Mines says that this does not stop the mine from going through. He is confident the federal government will give the mine the go ahead. The provincial government is also pushing this mine to go through despite the scathing report. Now, we again have to fight make sure the provincial and federal governments do not try to go around the issue and approve it, justifying it as producing jobs and strengthening the economy. There is no shortage of copper in the world, and 50-80% of gold is used for jewelry. The environment and Indigenous people suffer for the vanity of other people. Aboriginal people suffer the consequences of a regime that favors mining over the environment and Indigenous culture. Despite some ad hoc successes, the provincial and federal legal regimes generally do not offer Indigenous people adequate consultation during the mining approval process. For example, in some cases, members are not notified early enough to stop the momentum of a project. In other cases, they are not given the time or tools to conduct studies and mount a reasonable defence. Institutionalized Indigenous rights protection would help remedy such deficiencies, but we do not have that. Many companies still believe they can get around the law and Indigenous rights. They spend fortunes on public relations campaigns that portray themselves as the great saviours of the economy, encouraging the public to view First Nations as unreasonable obstacles to wealth and prosperity. They spend their time and resources trying to divide Indigenous communities. Sadly, part of their tactics are to use impoverished Indigenous people, who they pay generously and provide travel opportunities that they
would never be able to afford on their own, to go out and tell the world that Indigenous peoples are in favour of mining. A book titled, “Imperial Canada Inc.: Legal Haven of Choice for the World’s Mining Industries” reveals that Canada is the country of choice for many mining companies. Canada offers the worldwide extractive sector a customized trading environment that supports speculation, enables capital flows to finance questionable projects abroad, provides government subsidies, and, most especially, offers a politicized legal haven from litigation. In Canada, the right to reputation effectively supercedes freedom of expression and the public’s right to information. Hence, Canadian-based corporations can sue for “libel” any and all persons or legal entities that quote documents or generate analyses of their corporate practices that they do not approve of. A prime example is Chief Betty Patrick of Lake Babine Nation, a member of First Nations Women Advocating Responsible Mining. She was sued by the mining company for stating the truth about the destruction a mine in her area was causing. Her impoverished community ended up paying $90,000 on legal fees to get it thrown out of court. Canada puts itself forward to the international community as a defender of human rights, but it is quite a different story with the Indigenous people within its borders. We fight for our rights and have won all kinds of court battles with their laws, but the governments do not obey their own laws and we continue to fight to protect our lands and our human rights as Indigenous peoples. In 2012, a movement started in Canada called “Idle no More” and it quickly became one of the largest Indigenous mass movements in Canadian history sparking hundreds of rallies and protests. The name Idle No More came from a meeting between four Indigenous women. They were mad about Bill C-45, an omnibus bill that the Federal government was trying to push through. This omnibus budget bill basically attacked Indigenous and environmental protections. The women’s biggest frustration was that nobody seemed to be talking about it. So the four women decided to speak out. They would be “Idle No More.” The “Idle No More” movement struck a nerve. Many of the other tensions in the Indigenous communities started to bubble up to the surface and “Idle No More” encompassed a broad movement calling for recognition of treaty rights, revitalization of Indigenous cultures and an end to legislation imposed without meaningful consultation. “Idle No More” became more than an “Indigenous Thing”. People from all races joined the protests and rallies to support the
continued on pg. 13...........
pelltsipwen’ten 2014 Secwepemc NEWS 13
Id like to wish my husband Kevin of 6 years a Happy 1 1/2 Anniversary lots of Love Tiffany
I would like to wish my daughter, Victoria Retasket a very Happy Birthday (March 17). I Love you, Mom
Congratulation to Oscar Camille and Marlene Billy, Felix Francis Camille is home now, As of Februray 28/14 Keep up the good work , stay on the red road never give up, Both are doing an awesome job. Love Mom
Indigenous people and to let Prime Minister Stephen Harper know that the already weak environmental laws in Canada needed to be protected and strengthened, rather than weakened by the laws he planned on ramming through the legislature. Indigenous groups in Canada oppose the irresponsible way that mining has taken place. Almost every week there are news reports about some Canadian Indigenous group protesting or launching a court challenge to stop destructive mining practices in their area. We look forward to finding ways to work with Indigenous communities everywhere to protect the environment which will protect our cultures. We are pleased that many non-Indigenous people now see the importance of this work and are joining us in our fight for Mother Earth. Thank you.* Chief Bev Sellars recently published a mult-generational memoir called “They Called Me Number One”, about three generations of women who attended the St. Joseph’s Mission at Williams Lake, BC, a residential school “whose aim it was to “civilize” Native children through Christian teachings, forced separation from family and culture, and discipline.”
La’tsinii’bah Xwéxwne White will be 3 on March 12, 2014. She is Half
Shuswap and Navajo. Her parents are Everett White of Navajo Nation and Sophie White of Sugar Cane
If you are aDog : A very loyal and sweet person. Your loyalty can never be doubted. You are quite honest and sincere when it comes to your attitude towards working. You are a very simple person, indeed. Absolutely hassle free, humble and down-to-earth!! That explains the reason why your friends cling on to you! You have a good taste for clothes. If your wardrobe is not updated with what is trendy, you sure are depressed. Popular and easy-going. You have a little group of dignified friends, all of them being quality-personified. Repost This If It’s True For You.!! 4 years of bad luck if you do not share this post.
If you are a Mouse : Always up to some sort of a mischief! The mischievous gleam in your eyes is what makes you so cute and attractive to everyone. You are an extremely fun-to-be-with kind of person. No wonder people seek for your company and look forward to include you for all get-together’s. However, you are sensitive which is a drawback. People need to select their words while talking to you. If someone tries to fiddle around and play with words while dealing with you, it is enough to invite your wrath. God bless the person then!Repost This If It’s True For You.!! 3 years of bad luck if you do not share this post.
If you are a Lion : Quite contradictory to your name, you are a peace loving person. You best try to avoid a situation wherein you are required to fight. An outdoor person, you dislike sitting at one place for a long duration. Popular and easy-going. You are a born leader, and have it in you how to tactfully derive work from people. People love the way you always treat them. You love being loved, and when you receive your share of limelight from someone, you are all theirs!!!!Repost This If It’s True For You.!! 5 years of bad luck if you do not share this post.
If you are a Cat : An extremely lovable, adorable person, sometimes shy, with a passion for quick wit. At times, you prefer quietness. You love exploring various things and going into depth of each thing. Under normal circumstances you’re cool but when given a reason to, you are like a volcano waiting to erupt. You’re a fashion bird. People look forward to you as an icon associated with fashion. Basically, you mingle along freely but don’t like talking much to strangers. People feel very easy
in your company. You observe care in choosing your friends.Repost This If It’s True For You.!! 2 years of bad luck if you do not share this post.
If you are a Turtle : You are near to perfect and nice at heart. The examples of your kindness are always circulated in groups of people. You, too, love peace. You wouldn’t like to retaliate even to a person who is in the wrong. You are loved due to this. You do not wish to talk behind one’s back. People love the way you always treat them. You can give, give and give love, and the best part is that you do not expect it back in return. You are generous enough. Seeing things in a practical light is what remains the best trait of you guys. Repost This If It’s True For You.!! 10 years of bad luck if you do not share this post.
If you are a Dove : You symbolize a very happy-go-lucky approach in life. Whatever the surroundings may be, grim or cheerful, you remain unaffected. In fact, you spread cheer wherever you go. You are the leader of your group of friends and good at consoling people in their times of need. You dislike hypocrisy and tend to shirk away from hypocrites. They can never be in your good books, no matter what. You are very methodical and organized in your work. No amount of mess, hence, can ever encompass you. Beware, it is easy for you to fall in love....Repost This If It’s True For You.!! 8 years of bad luck if you do not share this post.
If you are a Panther : You are mysterious. You are someone who can handle pressure with ease, and can handle any atmosphere without going berserk. You can be mean at times, and love to gossip with your selected group. Very prim and proper. You like all situations and things to be in the way you desire, which, sometimes is not possible. As a result, you may lose out in some relationships. But otherwise, you love to help people out from difficult and tight spots when they really need you.Repost This If It’s True For You.!! 12 years of bad luck if you do not share this post.
If you are a Monkey : Very impatient and hyper!!! You want things to be done as quick as possible. At heart, you are quite simple and love if you are the center of attraction. That way, you people are unique. You would like to keep yourself safe from all the angles. Shall your name be dragged or featured in any sort of a controversy, you then go all panicky. Therefore, you take your precautions from the very beginning. When you foresee anything wrong, your sixth sense is what saves you from falling in traps. Quite a money minded bunch you people are!!
14 MARCH 2014Secwepemc NEWS
Since 2007, almost 80,000 former students have received a Common Experience Payment (“CEP”) as part of the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement. CEP recipients are now eligible to receive non-cash Personal Credits of up to $3,000, for either themselves or certain family members, for educational programs and services.
What are Personal Credits? Personal Credits may be used for a wide range of educational programs and services, including those provided by universities, colleges, trade or training schools, Indigenous Institutions of Higher Learning, or which relate to literacy or trades, as well as programs and services related to Aboriginal identities, histories, cultures or languages.
How much are Personal Credits? Adequate funds are available for each CEP recipient to receive up to $3,000 in Personal Credits, depending on your approved educational expenses.
Which educational entities and groups are included? A list of approved educational entities and groups has been jointly developed by Canada, the Assembly of First Nations and Inuit representatives. If an educational entity or group is not on the list, please consult the website for more information.
Will I receive a cheque? No. Cheques will be issued directly to the educational entity or group providing the service.
Who can use Personal Credits? CEP recipients can use the full amount themselves or give part or all of their Personal Credits to certain family members such as a spouse, child, grandchild or sibling,
as defined in the terms and conditions. Personal Credits of multiple CEP recipients can be combined to support a group learning activity.
How can I get Personal Credits? Each CEP recipient will be mailed an Acknowledgement Form. If you do not receive an Acknowledgement Form by the end of January 2014, please call 1-866-343-1858. Completed Acknowledgement Forms should be returned as soon as possible and must be postmarked no later than October 31, 2014.
How do I redeem my Personal Credits? Once approved, you will be sent a personalized Redemption Form for each individual using Personal Credits at each educational entity or group. Once the
Form is received, provide it to the educational entity or group listed. The educational entity or group must then complete and mail back the Redemption Form postmarked no later than December 1, 2014.
What happens to unused Personal Credits? The value of unused Personal Credits will be
transferred to the National Indian Brotherhood Trust Fund and Inuvialuit Education Foundation for educational programs.
For more information, including how Personal Credits can be redeemed by certain family members of CEP recipients that are deceased, visit www.residentialschoolsettlement.ca or call 1-866-343-1858.
The IRS Crisis Line (1-866-925-4419) provides immediate and culturally appropriate counselling support to former students who are experiencing distress.
Personal Credits Notice
If you received a Common Experience Payment, you could get $3,000 in Personal Credits for educational programs and services.
The Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement.The healing continues.
CEP recipients have the option of sharing their Personal Credits with certain family members, such as:•Children •Grandchildren
•Spouses•Siblings
pelltsipwen’ten 2014 Secwepemc NEWS 15
SECWEPEMC BUSINESS DIRECTORYThis listing is FREE to all Secwepemc.
All R Creations Hand Carved JewelleryRoxane McCallum (604)826-0095Birch Baskets Harold Thomas (250) 833-4016Big Sky Station Store & Gas SavonaJoan McTaggart (250) 373-0043Bow & Arrow Golf Enterprises (250) 318-0742Frank Antoine [email protected] Planner & Owner Orbis Ent Ltd. Fax:(250) 305-2445 Ph:(250) 305-7415E: [email protected] http://www.orbis-consulting.caCasper Creations Kamloops, BCDora Casper (250) 376-1736 Deana’s Dream Cree-ations KamloopsDeana Nicholson, Consultant (250) [email protected], Carvings, Boxes Bonaparte, BCNorman Retasket (250) 457-9727 cell (250) 457-4520Nighthawks Band (250) 440-5864Les JohnsonEvent Planning Chase, BCJulie John (250) 574-6215Falling & Contracting Canim LakeGregg Archie (250) 397-4137Fever Sounds - DJ Service BarriereCal Eustache (250) 672-9580
c (250) 819-3375Full Circle Designs KamloopsTravis Marr (250) 828-0770Hall/Conference Centre 4 Rent ChaseAdams Lake Rec. Centre (250) 679-3515Beach Body Coach KamloopsVanessa Gottfriedson (250) 574-6975Indigenous Eco-cultural Education & Consulting Services ChaseDawn Morrison (250) 679-1116Language (Secwepemc) ConsultantMona Jules (250) 672-5293 (250) 320-0379Lawyer KamloopsLinda D. Thomas Law Corp. (250) 319-8045Leona R McKay / Erin Casper ChillihitziaRed Ground Creations (250) 256-0255 c (250) [email protected] Bear Gift Shop & Gallery Chase Margaret Anderson (250) [email protected]
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Your Business could go here.
Congratulations STEP clients
Kukstemc, Cathy for all your service and dedication to protecting our property, membership and community. ALIB would like to recognize the long term efforts Cathy Arnouse has put into
protecting our community, ensuring the safety an well-being of us all. So on receiving the gifts and commendations from FNESS,
and other agencies congrats on a job well done !! We would also like to welcome Tony Dennis to the position. Thank you to Maryann Yarama, she was very instrumental in making the
