NOVEMBER 2019

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VOLUME 22 - NUMBER 11

Veterans EditionComing In December - Newsmaker of the Year Issue

CPMA #40027204

THREE DECADESThis veteran served for morethan 30 years and enduredsexism and discrimination overthe years. - Page 7

HALL OF FAMESen. Nora Cummings can addanother presitigious honour toher long list of accomplis-ments. - Page 15

FAMILY TRADITIONAs is the case with many Indige-nous families, this vetaran wasfollowing a glorious familytradition. - Page 11

WELL DESERVED!Former EFN writer Kevin Robertsis making a huge difference inhis community and was recentlyhonoured for his work. - Page 19

JUSTIC FOR METIS VETSIt has taken far too manyyears but there has beenjustice for vets. - Page 4

Veteran Philip Favel is Saskatchewan’s oldestIndigenous WWII veteran and, at age 97, is stillfighting with Veterans Affairs for justice.

Favel still fighting for fair treatment

By Morning StarFor Eagle Feather News

Philip Favel, a 97-year-old veteran from theSweet Grass First Nation, enlisted in the Cana-dian Armed Forces in 1941 at the age of 19.

While overseas, Pte. Favel served in France,Belgium and Holland and before returning home toNorth Battleford in July of 1945.

According to Veterans Affairs Canada, at least3,000 First Nations members enlisted in the Sec-ond World War. Of those who enlisted, Favel is the

oldest surviving member.In his lifetime, Favel was an activist who

fought for compensation to Indigenous Veteranswho were excluded from the benefits that non-First Nations veterans received. His efforts re-sulted in compensation to First Nations veterans bythe government. Now his advocacy extends both tohimself and his reserve. Favel explains that he wasgiven land on the Sweet Grass First Nation Re-serve.

• Continued on Page 2

NOVEMBER 2019Eagle Feather News 2

• Continued from Page One“That land was given to me by the government and the Department of Veterans Affairs,” he said.

“They didn’t explain things right about the land off-reserve.”There is an issue with the process the government used to allocate land for First Nations vet-

erans.“The land that the government awarded to Veteran Philip Favel cheated both the First Nation

band and the veteran Philip Favel,” said Chief Laurence Paskemin of Sweet Grass First Nation. The band is currently suing the government for compensation from Loss of Use. According to

the Senate of Canada “Non-First Nations veterans could purchase land from Canada with a small loanfrom the federal government, but First Nations veterans who applied for loanswere told they were limited to Certificates for Possession in the purchasing ofreserve land.”

“There is evidence that many Indian Agents did not tell First Nations Vet-erans of all their available options, but only what the agent thought they shouldreceive,” stated Matthew Coon-Come at the Proceedings of the Subcommitteeon Veterans Affairs in 2001.

“In particular, the federal government provided benefits to non -First Na-tions veterans that were not made available to or not made easily accessible toFirst Nations veterans, such as land grants, education, retraining and loans. Insome cases, First Nations lands were expropriated to compensate non-FirstNations veterans.”

Veteran Favel arranges the files in his briefcase as he ponders the outcomeof the court case. He hopes to see the reserve and his family compensated whilehe is living.

“Who knows how much longer I will be here,” he said.

Philip Favel received a medal from LG Vaughn Solomon Schofield in 2014.(Photo by John Lagimodiere). Below: Philip Favel in his house with filesrelating to his veteran’s land settlement. (Photo by Morning Star)

Favel hopes for resolution of his court challengefor his reserve and family while he is still living

Eagle Feather News NOVEMBER 2019 3

Jason Chamakese hasreleased a new flute al-bum entitled “Nisto”. (Photo by John Lagimodiere)

Mahekan Ahenakew following in grandfather’sinspiring footsteps with Canadian Armed Forces

By Jeanelle MandesOf Eagle Feather News

A 30-year-old man from the Ahtahkakoop CreeNation who joined the military in 2006 and served invarious countries was given the Order of St. George forhis service and commitment.

Master Corporal Mahekan Awasis Ahenakew at-tended a powwow in Regina and was intrigued at theveterans during a grand entry ceremony. The curiosityof the military lifestyle sparked right then and there.

“It was something I wanted to learn more about,”he said. “After the grand entry was over, (I walkedaround) and seen a recruiting booth. I went over to in-quire about it. That’s when I had gained contact onwhere to go to join the military.”

Not long after, Ahenakew was contacted and wentthrough testing to see if he was fit to join the ArmedForces. Following the testing, he decided to join theBold Eagle Program which kickstarted his career in themilitary.

“I carried on from there (going) forward and I’vedone a lot of courses,” he said.

Ahenakew’s late grandfather was in the military aswell. The thought of one of his relations who served forhis country always stood at the back of Ahenakew’smind which kept him going down this career path.

“I’m carrying on his footsteps … to carry on thatlegacy of warriors within our nations,” he said.

Ahenakew said this career came easy and naturalto him but that doesn’t mean he didn’t face any chal-lenges along the way. Being so far from his family is

one the hardships he faces. But despite the challengesthat come with the job, he is grateful for the hardshipsespecially when he goes back home.

“I never get tired seeing my family. Every time Isee them, it’s a wholesome experience and I’m suregrateful for them every day of my life,” he said.

His sister Sekwun Ahenakew describes her brotheras someone who has repeatedly shown a level of geniusthrough his creativity and functioning.

“I see my brother as a person who appreciates hismode of inner genius that involves trusting those innerflashes of insight that are worthy of expression,” shestated in an email interview.

“He banishes doubt by setting his mind to it –whatever it may be.”

She added that he trusts in the wisdom and staysconnected to Creator, appreciates the genius in others,practices radical humility and doesn’t like to take creditfor his talents, intellectual abilities, aptitudes, or profi-ciencies.

“He gives credit everywhere except his ego. Hetends to pay attention to the greatness he observes inothers. He tells others of their own greatness,” shestated.

“It took much convincing for him to accept this in-vestiture into the Order of St. George. He remains hum-ble while staying in a state of gratitude.”

Ahenakew said he doesn’t see himself in anotherjob where he would be able to affecting diverse and vastpopulation in a positive manner through his own blood,sweat and tears.

“The greatest capacity that I ever had to help peo-ple that I personally do not know on the grandest ofspectrums has been made available to me through theCanadian Armed Forces,” he said.

Master Corporal Mahekan Ahenakew and LordRobbie Sprules on his special day where he wasKnighted in October 5, 2019.

(Photo supplied by Sekwun Ahenakew)

Eagle Feather News NOVEMBER 20194

At long last, 2019 finally saw theGovernment of Canada apologize toMétis veterans of the Second WorldWar for their poor treatment when theyreturned to their communities after bat-tling overseas for Queen and country.

Programs, services, training andother benefits were often not deliveredin remote or northern Métis communi-ties and often veterans weren’t eventold of the opportunities available tothem.

The impacts were widespread. Atthe apology in September, The Ministerof National Defence described the out-comes well.

“Looking back, it is clear that thepre-and post-Second World War expe-riences some Métis veterans faced mayhave negatively affected their success-ful re-establishment in civilian life fol-lowing the Second World War,” saidThe Honourable Lawrence MacAulay,Minister of Veterans Affairs and Asso-ciate Minister of National Defence.

“Many experienced poverty, and arelative lack of pre-war education, vo-cational skills, and work experiences.We apologize that the benefits offeredto veterans after the war were not welldesigned to meet Métis veterans’ spe-cific needs.

“For example, many Métis veter-ans did not possess the required pre-requisites to access education andtraining.”

The apology came along with a$30 million compensation fund in thesettlement called the Canada-Métis Na-tion Métis Veterans Recognition Pay-ment Agreement. Each living veteranand the families of veterans who havedied in the last three years will receive$20,000.

The remainder of the money willgo to a trust for scholarships and initia-tives to commemorate Métis veterans.

So far, the Métis National-Coun-cil has identified less than a dozen sur-viving veterans. Often at enrollment,

Métis enlistees just listed French oranything other than Métis to escaperacism. Many surviving veterans are inSaskatchewan.

Recently, Métis Nation-Saskatchewan President Glen McCal-lum presented compensation chequesand beaded poppies to Métis War Vet-erans Lucien “Jim” Boucher and AliceMarie Victoria Samuel in ceremoniesin Saskatoon and Duck Lake. The apol-ogy and compensation are long over-

due and very much welcomed by thecommunity.

It is unfortunate that the Indige-nous men and women in Canada whovolunteered for our country were givensuch short shrift on their return. Theysacrificed their lives, bodies and soulsover there only to be treated so verypoorly upon their return.

It must also be noted that the De-partment of Veterans Affairs inCanada, doesn’t do a very good jobfor any of our soldiers that serve us.There always seems to be a fight formedical care and benefits for all.

What does that say about ourcountry and what we can do for our cit-izens. Pretty disappointing.

Make sure you hug a vet and doyour best to support them in their civil-ian lives. They have done much for us.

Least we can dofor them is showthem support andrespect. The apol-ogy and compensation are a start.

New faceI want to take some space to thank

Darla Read for her many years of awe-some work with Eagle Feather News.

From freelance writer to web editor,Darla worked with us over a span of 15years.That’s a lot. Awesome web edi-tor.

She has now moved on and isworking on her own business helpingnew mothers during the ups and downsof having a baby, a calling close to herheart. We thank her for all she has donefor us.

We also now want to welcomeErrol Sutherland on board as our webdude. He hasn’t picked an official titleyet, but pretty sure it will be better thanweb dude.

Errol comes to us with a diversesocial media and marketing back-ground including working at SIIT andCreative Fire as well as freelancing hisown business.

He is also a heck of a photogra-pher, so get used to seeing Errol swing-

ing his camera atcommunity and newsevents covering storiesand capturing imagesfor our website andpaper.

While we are talk-ing website, did youknow we average30,000 visitors amonth? There are newstories on the webevery day, most ofwhich you won’t see inthis paper. Totallyunique stories aboutyou, your friends, fam-ily and our communi-ties. All doing awesomethings.

Make sure you check it out. Alsogo to our Facebook and vote for news-maker of the year. Lots of big news thisyear. Who is your biggest newsmaker?Cast your vote!

Justice for Métis veterans

Métis veterans Lucien Jim Boucher and Alice MarieVictoria Samuel both received compensation for theinjustice they endured after WWII. On the day of thepresentations in Saskatoon and Duck Lake, MN-SPresident Glen McCallum and other dignitariespresented the veterans with beaded poppies and specialsashes. (Photos courtesy Glen McCallum)

Eagle Feather NewsNOVEMBER 2019 5

I went to a séance last week in Las Vegas. Nota real séance – rather, a re-creation of a séance butthey spelled it: “recreation séance” so that sort ofgave it a different vibe.

Like we would be sitting around on a basket-ball court in shorts and sneakers while trying tosummon spirits.

For the uninitiated, a séance is run by amedium. There is a difference between psychicsand mediums – I have learned this from my siblingswho visit both with the same regularity as peoplecheck in with their dentists.

Psychics apparently draw their informationfrom the spirits. But mediums get their messagesfrom people or animals who have passed on before.I guess it boils down to who you would rather hearyour news from: some random spirit or your formerShih Tzu, Mr. Wiggles.

The séance took place at “Binions” which is ahotel located in Fremont Street. When you walk inyou are greeted with the smell of cigars, booze andcarpet soaked in clamato juice. It had personality, iswhat I am saying.

We checked in at the front desk next to a cigarshop where a man stood and chuffed on a cigar asthough cancer or fresh air had never existed.

A young woman – Rae – greeted our party ofthree warmly. She had had some acting lessons andat various times during the night her face would goblank and she would stare off into space. I do thisat times as well, especially when I’m low on sleepor lying.

She explained the history of the hotel; it had

been the cornerstone of the general lawlessness ofold Vegas. Considering that an entire family hadbudded in front of me at Starbucks that very morn-ing – the lawlessness persists.

She asked us to write down a question on apiece of paper and then burned the paper in front ofus. I enjoyed this immensely – fire always adds a lit-tle pizazz to an evening. The paper exploded intoash when she hit it – “exploding paper,” she ex-plained. I had a feeling that if she put a flame to thecigar store owner, the same thing would happen tohim.

She took us to a small room that she explainedthat did not exist on the building plans. (She did not

really let me review the building plans long enoughto confirm this.) We walked up a flight of stairs andthen were asked to turn over our phones.

So far this was the scariest part of the adven-ture. Take my phone! Why not just ask for mysoul? But we were good sports and handed themover.

Rae left us in a side room – sans cellphones –and explained that the medium was on his way. Hisname was Frank and when he appeared, he had aslightly rumpled look – like he had just emergedfrom a suitcase after a long flight.

During the séance the medium brought up ourthree questions individually (the ones we hadburned!). At first the medium thought my questionwas another person’s so I had to pipe up: “No, thatwas me. The spirits have misled you.”

So, then the medium went through my answer–– and guess what?

Despite the clumsiness, the medium’s answerwas pretty darn perfect. Maybe it was basic com-mon sense, maybe it was the spirits lingering in thespace or maybe it was my old dog Barkley but theanswer resolved a lot of things.

Later my friend and I were debriefing and hetold me that you were supposed to write yourNAME before you wrote your QUESTION whichwas why the medium had confused my and thethird person’s question. It is pretty hard to fleecepeople if they can’t follow simple directions.

Despite the campiness, it was a nice off-the-strip adventure – with some unexpected wisdomthrown in for good measure.

Maybe old Barkley helped the medium

It is pretty hard tofleece people if

they can’t follow simple directions.

NOVEMBER 2019Eagle Feather News 6

Vet continues to fight for comradesBy Julia Peterson

For Eagle Feather NewsThe Saskatchewan First Nations Veterans

Association (SFNVA) has been supporting In-digenous veterans in Saskatchewan since the1960s. The association currently serves ap-proximately 125 registered veterans.

Grand Chief Steven Ross says that one ofthe most critical services the association pro-vides is to help navigating the benefits system.

“There are many benefits (First Nationsveterans) are entitled to from Canada, butthere’s a lot of red tape that you have to cutthrough, and that’s where it gets very discour-aging,” said Ross.

“But we will continue to fight for our peo-ple, for our veterans.”

The SFNVA also participates in cere-monies, commemorations, educational eventsand powwows, as well as organizing militaryfunerals and grave markers for veterans whohave passed away. In recent years, the associa-tion has shifted towards participating in specif-ically Indigenous-centered ceremonies on Re-membrance Day.

“Before, we used to participate with theLegions – and that’s OK, that’s good, nothingwrong with that,” said Ross. “But we were al-ways put in the back; the back of the parade, theback of the line.

“And some of our politicians saw that, sothey decided to change things, and we started

having our own ceremonies at the reserve andthe Grand Council level.”

For Prince Albert SFNVA president EmileHighway, raising the profile of the association,its work and its legacy can have an impactacross generations.

“We try to give our young people a senseof pride in their dads and grandfathers and un-cles and so on,” he said.

“A significant number of Aboriginal peo-ple joined the military and served in all threebranches, and I think it’s important for ouryoung people to know.

“I also think in particular, for older peoplewho went to residential school – always beingtold that we were inferior to other races, that wewould never amount to anything … it’s impor-tant to raise the profile of Aboriginal veteransand to let people know that Aboriginal peopleare intelligent and can make contributions to thebetterment of society.”

Ron “Rocky” Redwood, a member of theSFNVA executive, says that it is important forhim to continue the association’s work.

“After I came out of the military, I got in-volved with (the SFNVA) because I was search-ing out, to see what they could do for me,” he said.

“And one of the old veterans told me‘Rocky, you don’t know how what you have tosay might help somebody else’. That got mestarted doing what I’m doing, and I just con-tinue. Somebody’s got to be here.”

Ron "Rocky" Redwood, a Vietnam veteran and a member of theSFNVA executive. (Photo courtesy of the SFNVA)

NOVEMBER 2019 7Eagle Feather News

By NC Raine For Eagle Feather NewsDespite being underrepresented, fe-

males have historically played a key rolein the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).

Canada had one of the first militaryforces to open all military occupations towomen. According to 2019 statistics,women account for around 15 per cent ofthe CAF’s regular force.

Indigenous people’s representationis significantly lower, at only 2.5 per cent,making military veteran Kim VanMourik's service in the CAF that muchmore exceptional.

Van Mourik, who was born inSaskatoon and raised in Weyburn, en-listed for the military directly out of highschool in 1980. She spent over 32 years inthe armed forces, retiring in 2012.

“My brother was in the military, andmy grandfather on my mom’s side. Ijoined because there was a recruitmentdrive at career day in high school,” VanMourik told Eagle Feather News. “(Serv-ing) felt like the right thing to do.”

For those 32 years, Van Mourikserved primarily as a supply technician, inwhich she ensured that all supplies andservices necessary for the CAF (such asfood, fuel, heavy machinery, spare parts,stationery, clothing, etc.) are availablewhere and when they are required. Herservice took her across Canada, from theNova Scotia to Alberta, as well as over-seas in Croatia and Israel.

“The thing I miss most about themilitary is the comradery. I enjoyed one-

on-one teaching or passing on informa-tion of my trade. It made me feel goodwhen I could see someone understandingor working together as a group in thefield,” she said.

But the military wasn’t without itschallenges. Van Mourik said there werevery few fellow Indigenous females sheserved with, but was proud to share and talkabout her ethnicity. It was gender stereo-types that sometimes presented a problem.

“For me, my tribulations had noth-ing to do with being native, but more-sohad to do with being female. More oftenthan not, the issues had to do with atti-tudes people had towards women in themilitary,” said Van Mourik.

Women in combat roles was, andcontinues to be, one of the divisive issues,said Van Mourik. But she also acknowl-edges the CAF for the progress she hadseen them make over her three decades ofservice, even in gaining recognition forIndigenous people in military roles.

“The military now makes sure theytake part in Aboriginal Day, in Interna-tional Women’s Day. They’ve definitelymade progress,” she said. “If you’restrong and happy with who you are, thenpeople can’t beat you down anyways.”

And although she’s been retired fora few years, she says the spirit of servingher country will always be with her.

“Nowadays, whenever I hear the na-tional anthem, it brings a tear to my eye,”said Van Mourik. “I’m proud of my serv-ice. And so proud of all those people whosacrificed so much for us in wars.”

Kim Van Mourik’s military service exposed her to gender stereotyping.

Native veteran with 32 years in uniform says Canadian Armed Forces is makingprogess on gender related issues

NOVEMBER 2019Eagle Feather News 8

By Errol Sutherland Of Eagle Feather News

Steven FrostWhere were you stationed? I was stationed in Calgary for three years, I then gotposted in Cyprus for six months.What memory comes to mind when you thinkback at your time? Mostly the heat, being out in the hot sun, but thatwas part of being a peacekeeper for the (Canadian)Armed Forces.How old were you when you enlisted?Eighteen.Was your family supportive in your decision tosign-up?Very supportive, I was the first one in the family tojoin the Canadian Armed Forces.Did you receive any Awards or metals duringyour time?No, but we all got a medal being with the United Nations, The Cyprus Medal.Did the experience change you in any way when you got home?I was more aware of what was going on in the world. I also thought about whatwas I going to do now, since I was no longer a soldier. Sometimes, I wondered ifit would have been better if I stayed enlisted ... but this all the past now. Therewere many things I learned. One of them was finance, I didn’t know anythingabout that, my mother was a trapper, so there was no need for finance, but now, Iwas well prepared for a world I didn’t know before.

Captain - Jesse C. K. QuewezanceWhere were you stationed?2nd Battalion Royal Canadian Regiment. After fouryears, I was dummied down to the reserves, spenttime with North Saskatchewan Regiment.How old were you when you enlisted?Didn’t enlist, I volunteered, went in as direct entryofficer, in order to become part of that you have tohave a degree and a few tests just to qualify for basictraining, in which I later became and retire as cap-tain.Was your family supportive in your decision tosign up?Oh, for sure. I mean they didn’t like the idea. I wasin university (and) I thought it was important to con-tribute. After I finished school, I volunteered rightaway, the process took about six months.What memory comes to mind when you thinkback at your time?It’s the guys beside you, I was a captain and respon-

sibilities were vast and plenty.Did you receive any awards or medals during your time?Yeah, we done the overseas thing, done the North Pole sovereignty piece, workedwith Inuit, and an 80-year-old guide helped us.Did the experience change you in any way when yougot home?I met with (FSIN) Vice-Chief Dutch Lerat, he was avery great conduit to working for and veterans of theSaskatchewan nations.

Corporal - Darrel PaintednoseWhere were you stationed?CP Petawawa for five years.How old were you when you enlisted?I was 21 and my brother joined when he was 17.Was your family supportive in your decision tosign-up?My dad made us join. My dad was in the Korean Waras a medic, my brothers joined first then I joinedlater.What memory comes to mind when you thinkback at your time?I liked the exercise. Where I was stationed was the only base in Canada that wasvery focussed on being in shape, lots of physical activity.

Did you receive any awards or medals during your time?No, I was supposed to go to Germany in ‘88, and Cyprus in ’89. I would have re-ceived medals if I had went.Did the experience change you in any way when you got home?I drank lots and drank when I got home. At first, I thought joining the armywould help change that, but people drank there, too.

Victor Sanderson Combat Engineer,Corporal, RetiredWhere were you stationed?Chilliwack, B.C.How old were you when you enlisted?I was 22 years old.Was your family supportive in your decision tosign-up?Mixed reviews.What memory comes to mind when you think backat your time?You mean “The Blur?” No, the friends I served with,all the men and the women.Did you receive any awards or medals duringyour time?Yeah, when I was peacekeeping duty as a field engi-neer.Did the experience change you in any way whenyou got home?Not for awhile ... first the PTSD came, then nightmares came later. The disciplineand the friends were gone, things started rolling downhill. I felt disenfranchisedbecause I (was no longer) a civilian and no longer a warrior. When elders comeby, they tell us who to pray for and who’s being forgotten, so we help spread theword to get people to pray for the forgotten. There used to be over a 100 millionpeople on Turtle Island now there is only less than two million. So, let’s not for-get to pray for our ancestral warrior society.

Indigenous veterans look back on their military service

Steven Frost was apeacekeeper with theCanadian Armed Forces.

Corporal Victor Sander-son was a Combat Engi-neer was stationed inChilliwack, British Co-lumbia.

Captain Jesse C. K.Quewezance was stationedto the 2nd Battalion RoyalCanadian Regiment andalso spent time with NorthSK Regiment.

Corporal Darrel Painted-nose kept the family legacygoing by joining the Cana-dian Armed Forces.

NOVEMBER 2019 Eagle Feather News 9

World War II: (1939 – 1945)Arcand, AlbertArcand, ClementArcand, CollinArcand, Francis X.Arcand, GeorgeArcand, JosephArcand, Joseph Thomas (J.T.) Arcand, Louis O.S.Arcand, Patrick Maurice Greyeyes (Steele), David Georges Greyeyes, Esther (Mowat)

Greyeyes (Steele), Flora J. Greyeyes, Gertrude (Lloyd) Greyeyes, JosephGreyeyes, JosephineGreyeyes, Mary (Reid) Greyeyes, Stanley Greyeyes, Thomas Greyeyes, William C. Greyeyes, William R. Lafond, AlbertLafond, Beatrice Ledoux, Vincent

Longneck, Felix Sanderson, Francis X. Sanderson, William Tawpisim, Alexander Venne, Beatrice (Lucier) Venne, EmileVenne, HarryPte. Okemasis, Joseph: 1 Canadian Infantry Division, (MG) Bn (KIA) - Italy died December 07, 1943 Buried at Moro River Canadian War Cemetary - Italy

Arcand, Arthur “Gabby” Arcand, Clement Arcand, Patrick Maurice Lafond, Albert

Lafond, Stanley

Sgt. Ledoux, Aaron - 173rd Airborne, US Army, Vincenza, Italy. OIF I-OEF V

MWO Greyeyes, Grant - PPCLI (Afghanistan and currently serving)Cpl Wolfe, Kelly, PPCLI (Afghanistan) Capt. Pryor, Walker, 1 Royal Canadian Horse Artillery (Afghanistan and currently serving)

MUSKEG LAKE CREE NATION

Cayen, PatGreyeyes, David W.Greyeyes, George Greyeyes, Marcel Greyeyes, Richard Greyeyes, RobertLafond, RoderickLafond, Frederick “Sonny” Longneck, DarianShaw, DonnaWolfe, James

Lest We ForgetMUSKEG LAKE CREE NATION

WE WISH TO ACKNOWLEDGE OUR VOLUNTEERS. World War I (1914-1918)

Arcand, John B. ~ Arcand, John Malasyppe ~ Arcand, Louis Arcand, Louis O.S. ~ Flamend, John ~ Greyeyes, Louis ~ Ledoux, Isadore

Sanderson, William B. ~ Tawpisim, Alexander

The Federation of Sovereign IndigenousNations Annual Powwow was a spectacle ofover 600 dancers and hundreds of elders,veterans and dignitaries and thousands ofvisitors. There was a Red Dress special tohonour MMIWG and Elilah Napachit wascrowned Miss FSIN Princess.

(Photos by Errol Sutherland)

NOVEMBER 2019Eagle Feather News 10

By NC Raine For Eagle Feather NewsA new initiative is ensuring that de-

ceased Indigenous veterans across Canadaare honoured with a proper funeral and ap-propriate grave markings.

For over a century, The Last PostFund, a non-profit organization, has ad-ministered the Veterans Affairs Canada fu-neral and burial program for Canadian andAllied veterans who may not have sufficientfunds at the time of death. The Fund alsoprovides military grave markers for veter-ans lying in unmarked graves.

A new initiative is now working toadd an Indigenous veteran’s traditionalname to existing military markers, in addi-tion to providing a marker if none exists.They also offer to inscribe a symbol cul-turally relevant to the veteran.

“The families we work with are for-ever grateful,” said Edouard Pahud, exec-utive director of the Last Post Fund.

One of the beneficiaries is a familyfrom White Bear First Nation, in southeastSaskatchewan, who will be receiving atombstone for their veteran father, whoserved in the Second World War. The fam-ily declined to comment for this story butwere reportedly very grateful for the Fund’ssupport.

One of the complications in theprocess is identifying the Indigenous vet-erans, said Pahud, noting some may havebeen forced to adopt a name different fromtheir birth name due to factors like residen-tial schools or enlisting restrictions.

“Would you want the marker, main-tained in perpetuity, in the name youadopted or were forced to adopt, rather thanyour traditional name?” said Pahud.

“Especially when you look at the peo-ple in World War I, they served their coun-try even when they weren’t allowed, sothey adopted these Anglophone or Frenchnames. So, it’s correcting a past wrong.”

The catalyst of this initiative came byway of Yann Castelnot, an amateur historianwho received a Sovereign’s Medal for Vol-unteers in 2018 for compiling a database ofmore than 150,000 Indigenous soldiers whofought for Canada and the United States, in-cluding 18,830 who were born in Canada.

Maria Trujillo, Indigenous ProgramCo-ordinator for the Last Post Fund and anIndigenous scholar, is tasked with reachingout to communities and First Nations acrossCanada to inform them about the initiativeand its benefits.

“What makes this unique is that wework together with local researchers fromeach community,” said Trujillo, who saidshe hopes to raise awareness to the pro-gram.

“There are communities throughoutSaskatchewan and Canada that had a largeamount of First Nations veterans who vol-unteered. We want to make sure the pro-gram is visible to anyone who needs it.”

According to the database provided byCastelnot, there are over 3,000 Indigenousveterans from Saskatchewan who served ineither the two world wars, or the KoreanWar, almost half of which are Métis.

Trujillo said she will be contactingthe First Nations with the largest number ofveterans, which include File Hills Qu’Ap-pelle Tribal Council, Mistawasis First Na-tion, Cumberland House Cree Nation,Muskeg Lake Cree Nation, and Peepeeki-sis Cree Nation.

“There’s so many reasons why this isimportant,” said Trujillo. “There’s moreawareness in mainstream Canadian soci-ety now of how many Indigenous vet-erans went to the World Wars, and theservice they provided.”

Veterans grave markers at the Woodlawn Cemetery in Saskatoon

Veterans from Fire Hills, Sask. (Saskatchewan Provincial Archives Collection)

Markers honour Indigenous vets

NOVEMBER 2019 11Eagle Feather News

By Judith IronFor Eagle Feather News

It’s 11:00 a.m. November 11. The country goesquiet. Men and women in uniform stand side by side forthis moment of silence. Their thoughts turn to the he-roes who so selflessly served our country during warand conflict. These brave warriors put their lives on theline for our freedom and peace.

Every year on Remembrance Day, enlisted menand women, veterans, family members, civilians, sol-diers, schools, cities, and towns pay homage to thesebrave men and women who fought in the war.

Many of them will recall bittersweet memories ofthose they have loved and lost, but they will also re-member the sacrifices that needed to be made.

In that moment of silence let’s think of the FirstNations men and women who fought in the war. Thinkof the fallen soldiers we proudly consider war heroesand ask yourself, ‘Why would someone willingly put

themselves in the line of fire?’“I guess the only thing that can be said is that First

Nations people were promised in the treaties that wewould never be conscripted unlike any other ethnicity,so First Nations veterans have always volunteered,”said Jesse McGhee, from the George Gordon First Na-tion.

For McGhee, Nov. 11 isn’t just about the poppiesand showing his support. For the McGhee men, beinga soldier is a family tradition. As a child, McGhee al-ways knew he was going to carry on that tradition. Themen in his family chose to fight bravely and with honorand he would do the same.

The McGhee men wore their uniforms with pride.War did not discriminate. McGhee recalls his UncleDan Bird who spoke about his experience.

“Over in Europe a soldier was not defined by hisrace, color, or creed. (He/She) ...was free to go whereverliberating prisoners of war camps, but when he re-turned in 1945 Indian soldiers were told to get back onthe reserve where we belonged ... take off that uniform.You see reserves had made the Indian political prison-ers of war,” he said.

This did not thwart McGhee’s desire to become asoldier. Like many Canadians, he is a peacekeeper atheart, but his grandfather, his father, and his uncles’legacies are ingrained in him. He enlisted in the armyat the young age of 19, serving from 1984 to 1991 in thePrincess Patricia Canadian Light Infantry.

McGhee’s legacy had begun with his grandfatherAlexander Pelletier, First World War, who enlisted inthe first battalion of the Princess Patricia CanadianLight Infantry (PPCLI). His dad, Andrew McGhee, en-listed in 1942, also becoming a soldier of the PPCLI.

The list goes on to include McGhee’s paternal un-cles, Wes McGhee, Melvin McGhee and Emerson‘Emit; McGhee, PPCLI; and, maternal uncles Dan Bird,Sydney Gordon, and Daniel Pelletier, PPCLI.

McGhee comes from a long line of brothers inarms and he is very proud of his family’s accomplish-

ments and efforts. Although he is now retired, heproudly and excitedly said if he had to do it again, hewould do it in a heartbeat.

Well, he just may get to “do it again” vicariouslythrough his two children, Jacob and Jaylene. With hissupport and guidance, Jacob and Jaylene are enrolled inscouts and cadets.

Jesse McGhee with his children Jacob and Jaylene.

Jesse McGhee with a veteran in Terrace, B.C.

Despite knowing of prejudice, Jesse McGheechose to follow McGhee relatives into Service

NOVEMBER 2019Eagle Feather News12

By Jeanelle MandesOf Eagle Feather News

Senator Nora Cummings was inducted into theWomen’s Hall of Fame for her continuous and lifetimecontributions. She was nominated based on her leader-ship, mentorship and citizenship.

Cummings was shocked to hear that she was giventhis incredible honour.

“I was very honoured that (someone) nominatedme,” she said.

“I never would have dreamed that I would havebeen nominated for something like that. I’m very hon-oured to see (those) who nominated have that respectfor me.”

The induction event held on Oct. 8 was a luncheonheld at the Hilton Gardens Inn in Saskatoon.

“The day (of the event), it was the first time Iever felt nervous,” she said. “Just realizing that I hadmany awards and when I walked in, there was so manypeople there. The mayor was there and the Chief of Po-lice and people in our community. I was quite humbledto see so many people there supporting me and my fam-ily.”

Cummings was born in 1938 and is from Saska-toon where she was raised. She attended St. JosephSchool and was married at a young age. She raised ninechildren and presently has 28 grandchildren and 34great grandchildren.

Her list of lifetime achievements is long but goesunnoticed by many. According to the Métis Family andCommunity Justice Services Saskatchewan Inc. web-

site, Cummings became a founding memberof the Saskatoon Métis Society Local #11 in1969, followed by being a field worker forthe Métis Society Local #11 until 1971. Thatsame year, she became founder of theSaskatchewan Native Women’s Associationand a year later, she was appointed Provin-cial Coordinator of the Association whereshe later was elected Provincial President.

Cummings sat on many boards suchas the board of directors of the NativeWomen’s Association of Canada and theSaskatoon Indian and Métis Friendship Cen-ter and was later elected chairperson.

From 1977 to 1983, she was employedby the Native Employment Services, thenworked as a family worker for the SaskatoonMétis Society Local # 11. In 1987, she waselected President of the Saskatoon MétisSociety Local #11.

In 1993, Cummings took the Oath ofOffice, as a Senator for the Métis NationSaskatchewan Senate, where she still re-mains. She has received an outstandingnumber of awards, medals and recognitionsthroughout her lifestyle and still lives a busylifestyle to this day.

“Whatever comes up and I’m asked, I just do it,”she said. “After raising my kids, I never thought Iwould do the things that I have done.”

Cummings shares advice with other Indigenous

women throughout the province.“Continue to work for our people and your people

and for other generations to come,” Cummings said. “Become great leaders and always respect your

elders. Always remember your culture and be proud.”

By John LagimodiereOf Eagle Feather NewsThe Saskatoon Tribal Council and

the City of Saskatoon hope a new agree-ment will help bring more focused re-sources to First Nation people living inSaskatoon.

The Sharing Prosperity ThroughReconciliation Agreement between theSTC and the City sets out meeting pro-tocols and a framework to make progressover the next five years onthe shared goals of theSaskatoon Tribal Counciland the City of Saskatoon.

Both Mayor CharlieClark and Tribal ChiefMark Arcand know work-ing together is imperativeat this time.

“We have a history ofworking together, but aswe understand this era ofreconciliation, the TribalCouncil provides manyservices in the City to theirmembers who are also cit-izens of the city,” saidClark.

“There are manyways where we overlap inrecreational services,transportation and hous-ing. Having a formalagreement that in endeav-oring to work together wecan have the right point

people in the City and Tribal Councilhelps to make the relationship stronger,and clearer and smoother.

“We have a lot of work to do toclose the gap in outcomes between In-digenous kids and non-Indigenous kids.Everyone should have the chance to besuccessful in this city.”

Chief Arcand thinks the agreementis a big step.

“This is what Treaty was all about.

To work together with people so we canall have a good quality of life. This istremendous. I would like to see othercities do the same thing with other FirstNation organizations.”

The relationship between the city andSTC is often looked to as a best model forthose looking to work together.

“The City and our people have a longhistory of working together in Saskatoon.From Chief Whitecap being one of the

founders of Saskatoon. The urban reserveswith Muskeg Lake, Yellow Quill and OneArrow. That’s about partnerships and rela-tionships. I’m really proud of our Chiefs.They have taken the step to work together.”

There have already been discus-sions on energy development, educationpartnerships are in place as are transitagreements and the phenomenon of Rec-onciliation Saskatoon. But one of themain challenges acknowledged by both

leaders was the cur-rent crystal meth crisisand access to rehabil-itation and the cre-ation of a drug treat-ment court.

“I’m very happyfor Mayor Clark andthe Council to take thisinitiative with the TribalCouncil. It will set astandard for the rest ofthe country. There are alot of negative thingshappening across thiscountry to First Nationspeople.

“It is opportuni-ties like this that buildrelationships. We havetoo many people injails and kids incarcer-ated and in the childwelfare system. Wecan work together toend those issues.”

Dignitaries posed for the official ceremony after the City of Saskatoon and the Saskatoon Tribal Council signedthe Sharing Prosperity Through Reconciliation Agreement. Front from left are Councillor Serina Gersher,Councillor Hillary Gough, Mayor Charlie Clark and Councillor Bev Dubois. Back row from left Whitecap DakotaChief Darcy Bear, Mistawasis Nehiyawak Chief Darryl Watson, Saskatoon Tribal Council Chief Mark Arcand,Muskoday First Nation Chief Herman Crain, Kinistin Saulteaux Nation Chief Greg Scott, Yellow Quill FirstNation Chief John Machiskinic and Muskeg Lake Cree Nation Chief Kelly Wolfe. Missing One Arrow ChiefTricia Sutherland. (Photo by Willow Lagimodiere)

City, Saskatoon Tribal Council working toward Reconciliation

Sen. Cummings enters Hall of Fame

Sen. Nora Cummings with Saskatoon Police Chief Troy Cooperand Mayor Charlie Clark.

NOVEMBER 2019 13Eagle Feather News

Indigenous veterans who voluntarilyfought for Canada in the World Wars werenot treated with the respect and recognitionthey deserve(d).

The effects of this negative treatmentpermeated other facets within Indigenouscommunities, such as Indigenous women,children and elders.

One such example involves my greatgrandfather George Badger, who foughtand died during his service in Hong Kong,leaving my great grandmother Sarah athome to raise my grandfather and, later,my mother and auntie on her own.

The sacrifices of non-Indigenous vet-erans are generally well-documented andhonoured through commemorations andremembrance. As I have discussed previ-ously , non-Indigenous veterans receivedsoldier settlements, where they were given160 acres of land when they returned home.This was not the same for Indigenous vet-erans which is another historical violationthat still needs correcting.

The legacies of warfare on our In-digenous communities continue to be felttoday. One battle which often goes unmen-tioned is the War of 1812.

This war was won with Indigenous al-lies that led to the establishment of Canada.Sadly, as is the case of the World Wars, therole and importance of Indigenous veterans

in the War of 1812 has been trivialized overthe centuries.

A way to start properly recognizing In-digenous veterans isto honor the Indige-nous allies whofought in this war,whose participationwas fundamental tothe creation ofCanada.

Since I can re-member, the ac-knowledgments ofthe Dakota peoples’ relationship with landssituated in Canada, and in particular Treaty6 territory, have gone unrecognized. Forthe Dakota, this compounds the harmfullegacies of colonialism and continues todeny the importance of their contributionsto Canadian society, one such example be-ing my ancestor’s participation as an ally inthe War of 1812.

One of those allies was the Dakotapeople, who finally received acknowledge-ment from Canada through medals in 2012at the bicentennial commemoration for theWar of 1812. Therefore, the Dakota peo-ples’ alliance and presence within Canadais evident through participation in the Warof 1812 forming Canada.

As a Dakota-Winyan it is offensive to

not be acknowledged within Canada. TheDakota have been labeled as U.S. refugees,which is politically incorrect. This misrep-

resentation con-tinues to denyour existencewithin Cana-dian borders.What good aremedals if we arenot acknowl-edged on ourown territory?

While Iapplaud the fact that land acknowledgmentshave been woven into prairie presentationsand protocols, many, if not all of these landacknowledgments are premised on the no-tion that the signatories to Treaty 6 were theinitial inhabitants of this land. The Dakotapresence at Treaty 6 signing was deniedand therefore is still not acknowledgedwhen all other First Nations who were sig-natories are acknowledged.

As treaty negotiations with my Dakotanation are ongoing, we are undertaking thedaunting task of reintegrating our Dakotasocieties into Treaty 6 territory and withinCanada itself.

When we discuss these issues ofrecognition and respect of veterans whohave come before us, we show respect and

honour those who have fought for this coun-try.

I think it is vital we remember all theallies and do not overlook the dedication In-digenous allies have done for this country.In a more specific context for myself, it isthe remembrances of the Dakotas whichprevents leaving them out of the fabric ofthis country.

There is a statue front and centre inSaskatoon in front of the Victoria bridge ofthe founders of Saskatoon. In this statue,Chief Whitecap is showing John Lakewhere to settle Saskatoon.

Many partnerships have been builtwith the Whitecap Dakota community, yetare denied in land acknowledgments as aclear indicator of the history where Dako-tas were denied Treaty.

The acknowledgement of thesewrongs has still not been corrected norshared and known with the wider Canadiansociety.

There is archeological evidence andoral stories which show Dakota used andoccupied land in Canada and it seems asthough there is a hard time accepting Dako-tas were traditionally in this territory. Thismisrepresentation and bias have been in-ternalized in our minds and that stems fromgovernmental policy authorities who de-nied Dakotas presence.

Failure to recognize Dakota needs correcting

NOVEMBER 2019Eagle Feather News14

By Jeanelle MandesOf Eagle Feather News

An installation aimed to educate visitors and staff at Regina’s CityHall on the commitment and journey towards Truth and Reconcilia-tion was recently unveiled.

In October, the City of Regina hosted an unveiling event featur-ing Cree/Métis artist Krystle Pederson singing the Métis National An-them, as well as Teddy Bison, a Nakoda/Cheyenne singer and drum-mer from Ocean Man First Nation.

The Truth and Reconciliation project is located on the mainfloor of City Hall, next to the Courtyard Café.

City of Regina’s Diversity & Inclusion Consultant Debbie Broth-eridge came up with the concept of the installation after reading theTruth and Reconciliation Commission’s final summary report.

“I found that to be a quite hard read,” she said. “I would read alittle bit (every few days) and absorb it.”

At one of the first Reconciliation Regina meetings where all itsmembers gathered, the late Elder Noel Starblanket said something thatresonated with Brotheridge.

“He said ‘onceyou seen and once youheard, you can’t unseenand you can’t unhear’,”she said. “It really hitme and made me thinkthat’s exactly how I feltafter reading (the TRCreport). I can’t just for-get about it and I can’tlet it go. If there’s any-thing that I can do aboutit, I needed to do some-thing. I need to feel thatI contributed somehowto work towards recon-ciliation.”

Shortly after,Brotheridge printedsome Office of the Treaty Commission forms on ‘WhatTheir Call to Action is.’ She went around the City ofRegina organization asking people to fill out the forms onwhat reconciliation meant to them and received a lot ofpositive responses. She later placed the forms on the wallof the human resources room where it continued to grow.

At the next Reconciliation Regina meetings, Broth-eridge sat with a few executives and she asked how theyfelt if she moved the forms to another area of the build-ing. Her idea was approved and they were moved into thecafeteria that was recently renovated.

“What a perfect place to display this and have peo-ple ask questions. I think the more curious you are, themore likely you’ll be working towards reconciliation,” shesaid.

Brotheridge and other staff formed a committeewhere they consulted with Elders and had an agency to doartwork at the centre of the wall. There are 14 panels thatstretch 43 feet which is centred by a medicine wheel andstar. The content of the panels integrates historical infor-mation on treaties and residential schools along with em-ployee photos and written commitments to reconcilia-tion.“The support for Reconciliation Regina fromorganizations throughout the city shows us that our resi-dents are keen to make progress on the TRC calls to ac-tion,” said Mayor Michael Fougere in a media release.

“This installation will remind us of the good workthat the City of Regina has been a part of, and inspire usevery day to continue to make progress.”

“The unveiling event had over one hundred peoplein attendance.” mbcradio.com

Debbie Brotheridge came up with the idea of having a Truth and Reconciliation Projectinstalled in Regina’s City Hall. (Photo by Jamie Lewis)

There are 14 panels that stretch 43 feet which is centredby a medicine wheel and star. Each panels integrateshistorical information on treaties and residential schools.(Photos by Debbie Brotheridge)

Staff at Regina’s City Hall takesteps towards Reconciliation

NOVEMBER 2019 15Eagle Feather News

By NC Raine For Eagle Feather NewsThe award may have his name on it,

but Kevin Roberts wants to ensure thatit’s his community’s leadership that re-ceives the credit.

“We were pretty elated, but I didn’twant to make this about myself. Awardsare nice but really, at the end of the day,it’s a reflection on your community andthe leadership that makes things hap-pen.”

In late October, Roberts was the re-cipient of the 2019 Facility OperationsAward, presented by the SaskatchewanParks and Recreation Association(SPRA). The award recognizes Roberts’achievement in the operation of theJonas Roberts Memorial CommunityCentre (JRMCC) – a sport and recre-ation facility at Lac La Ronge IndianReserve.

The JRMCC is the first facility ona First Nation to receive the award.

“I think we’re pretty privileged inour organization to do what we do. Toknow that when we build things, there’sgoing to be positive impacts for theyouth, community members, and eld-ers,” said Roberts. “The award is a goodreflection on our entire organization andleadership.”

Roberts, who has been the directorof sports and recreation at JRMCC fornearly eight years, says the facility is awholly inclusive community, open toboth band and non-band members. Thefacility has about 150 memberships andprovides financial support for those oth-erwise unable to cover the fees.

“We realize sometimes finances canbe a struggle, so we try to alleviate someof those burdens so every kid has an op-portunity,” he said. “I just want to giveback. A lot of these kids come from sit-uations that I came from. So, whenyou’re in a position to make an impact,that’s what we’re here to do.”

The ice rink and fitness centre at theJRMCC underwent a $3.6 million reno-vation in 2016, adding increased spacefor the fitness centre, new seating, a run-ning track, boardroom, and bus garage.The exterior of the facility has also seenan expanded entertainment park, featur-ing a canteen and washroom, 18 holemini-golf course, snookball, beach vol-leyball, batting cage, and ball diamonds.

It’s all about providing youth withsomething that can make a significantimpact in their lives, said Roberts.

“It has impacts in so many areas:leadership, teamwork, improved self-es-teem, improved health and wellness,” hesaid.

“We look forward to trying to helpthem realize the benefits of sports andrecreation.

“ It has such an effect on an indi-vidual, or community, you want to keepthat going for your community to growand develop in a good way.”

By Jeanelle MandesOf Eagle Feather NewsA group of 12 high school students

from different school divisions werepicked to sit on the 2019-2020 ProvincialYouth Council.

Last month, Education MinisterGordon Wyant announced the membersof the youth council who are committedto improving their communities and em-powering other young people in theprovince.

“Students have a critical voice ineducation and an important role to playin improving the future of our province,and I am looking forward to hearing theirvaluable feedback,” Wyant said.

The students will voice issues di-rectly with the Minister of Education andother government members, while figur-ing out ways of addressing the concernsbrought forward.

There were 51 nominations re-ceived by the Ministry of Education andonly 12 students were selected. Eachcouncil member from different schooldivisions will bring their own uniqueperspective, skills and background.

“I was really surprised. I got anemail that I was accepted,” said OliviaMaurice, a Grade 12 student from E.D.Feehan High School in the GreaterSaskatoon Catholic School Division.

“I learned the stats and I think I waspicked out of 60 people to represent myschool board. I think it’s really amazingconsidering how many different schoolsare within my school board.”

Maurice resides in Saskatoon but isoriginally from English River First Na-tion. She is a leader within her commu-nity and her school. She’s the presidentof her school’s Student Leadership Com-mittee, a three-time nominee for theSaskTel Indigenous Youth Awards of Ex-cellence and has worked with CanadianRoots Exchange working towards rec-onciliation within her community.

Being on the Provincial YouthCouncil, Maurice wants to use the op-portunity to voice concerns and ideasfrom the schools she represents andhopes her role can be the start of changes.

“Classroom sizes is a huge concern.It’s not easy to get that one on one first-hand experience that (a student) needs,”she said.

“I want to bring forward land-basedand cultural learning within the schoolsystem.”

When she completes high school,Maurice hopes to attend university tostudy either engineering or to become ateacher.

Peyton Chandler is a Grade 11 stu-dent from the Minahik Waskahigan HighSchool in Pinehouse Lake within theNorthern Lights School Division. He iseager to bring forward ideas on how toimprove the education system within hisschool district.

“This is a big opportunity to get myvoice out and the voice of the northernstudents,” said Chandler.

“It’s a big chance for us to be heard(on) what our problems are and how wecan fix those problems.”

Chandler stands out as a youngleader in his community and school. Heis involved in many clubs and has earnedthe Northern Achievement Award sev-eral times. He will be receiving the Lieu-tenant Governor Award for AcademicAchievement. Chandler also received Jr.and Sr. Student of the Year awards inMinahik Waskahigan High School.

He is passionate about social issuesin his community and tries to find solu-tions to help people struggling with drugissues. Chandler enjoys hunting with his

father and he wants to attend universityto become a math teacher.

The first inaugural meeting washeld on Oct. 19, and members sat downwith the Minister of Education and begandiscussions around topics of importanceto them and their peers.

Kevin Roberts accepting the FacilityOperations Award at the SaskatchewanParks and Recreation Association awardsgala.

Olivia Maurice originally from theEnglish River First Nation hasoutstanding leadership skills andwas picked among others to sit onthe Provincial School Council.

(Photos submitted)

Peyton Chandler is a northernstudent from Pinehouse Lake is usingthe opportunity as a youth councilmember to bring forward theconcerns and ideas of the studentswithin his school division.

Roberts honoured with Facility Operations Award

Students have a voice on Provincial Youth Council

NOVEMBER 2019Eagle Feather News16

By Julia PetersonFor Eagle Feather NewsThis year marks the 175th anniver-

sary of the birth of Louis Riel, and eventsdesigned to commemorate, celebrate,and educate about his legacy will be tak-ing place throughout the province onNov. 16, the date of his execution.

In Saskatoon, the Métis AddictionsCouncil of Saskatchewan will be hostingthe first annual Louis Riel Cultural Fes-tival at City Centre Church. This two-dayevent, taking place over the 15th and the16th, will feature musical and dance per-formances, cultural presentations, andcommunal meals.

“We’re hoping to share Métis, butalso Indigenous in general, First Nationsperformances, as well as performancesfrom newcomers to Canada,” saidShayne Lazarowich, communicationsmanager for the Métis Addictions Coun-cil of Saskatchewan.

“The idea is, in the spirit of recon-ciliation, to reach out to all kinds of cul-tural groups and folks in our communityto present something that really respectsand honours the tradition and the historyof Louis Riel.”

Performers at the Louis Riel Cul-tural Festival will include singer-song-writer and multi-instrumentalist DonnyParenteau, the Andino Sons, who de-scribe their musical style as ‘SouthAmerican Mountain Folk Rock,’ and the

Qu’appelle Valley Square dancers. Another commemoration will be

taking place at the Batoche National His-toric Site. Though the site is normallyclosed at this time of year, Parks Canadaand the Gabriel Dumont Institute willhost Louis Riel Day at Batoche on the

Nov. 16. On that day, there will also be a

Project Bookmark plaque unveiling atthe site. Project Bookmark’s mission is toplace excerpts from literary texts at theirreal locations throughout the country,and the plaques at Batoche will feature

French and English translations of “TheSewing Circle,” a poem by Métis writerGregory Scofield.

“This year, Gregory (Scofield) waschosen because of Louis Riel’s 175th an-niversary,” said Jacqueline Gaudet,events coordinator.

“His poem ‘The Sewing Circle’takes place here at Batoche during the1885 resistance. And we’ll also be hav-ing our memorial walk to the cemetery,honouring all those who have fallen, anda light lunch and traditional entertain-ment that day.”

Saskatchewan Polytechnic will alsobe honouring Riel by hosting speakersand performances and raising the Métisflag on its campuses located in MooseJaw, Prince Albert, Regina, and Saska-toon.

“These events are to create aware-ness about Louis Riel himself and thechallenges and contributions this histor-ical figure gave to this province ofSaskatchewan and to Canada,” saidSaskatchewan Polytechnic Indigenousstrategy coordinator Deanna Speidel.

“It brings about an awareness of theIndigenous history throughout Canada.

“It’s for everybody to share and cel-ebrate and walk away and learn some-thing about the contributions Louis Rielhas made. All the very important infor-mation that was not in our history books,that information is shared on this day.”

Special celebrations, ceremonies mark 175th anniversary of Riel’s birth