We will NOT be Forgotten€¦ · Government of Canada, CAP advocates for the rights and interests...

VOICETHE INDIGENOUS

VOLUME 3 Issue 2 2019

REPRESENTING OFF-RESERVE STATUS & NON-STATUS INDIANS, METIS AND INUIT OF SOUTHERN LABRADOR

We will NOT be ForgottenA Day of Action for Indigenous Justice gets Ministers Attention

Bethany Sunday Shortt Aboriginal Youth Achievement Award Winner

Contact Congress of Aboriginal Peoples867 St. Laurent BlvdOttawa, ON K1K-3B1 Tel: 613 747-6022Web: abo-peoples.orgEmail: [email protected] Free: 1-888-9927

• Strategies to address labour shortages

• Shared financing to train new employees

• Matching employer needs with skilled staff

• Support industry recognized or customized employer skills training

• Increase workplace inclusion, diversity and retention

• Raise profile with urban Aboriginal communities

• Career Planning

• Skills Training

• Work Experience

• Self-Employment Assistance

• Finding a job

Partnerships The Congress is looking to establish skills training partnerships with businesses and employers. If you are interested please contact the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples ISET Program department.

For EmployersFor Individuals

Indigenous Skills and Employment

Training (ISET) Program

on the cover

A fancy dancer participating in the Odawa Traditional Pow Wow 2019.

contentsVOLUME 3, Issue 2

Special Reports

10 Canada’s Skilled Trade CrisisThe ever widening gap between skilled trades people and job opportunity

Bethany Sunday ShorttAboriginal Youth Achievement Award winner

Climate ChangeProtest, Policy and Perseverance

Missing and MurderedIndigenous Women and GirlsFinal Report is Just The Beginning

Including Two SpiritsGender equity in Indigenous communities

Autumn PeltierWater Warrior

03

FEATURESHOLIDAY MESSAGENational Chief Robert Bertrand sends best wishes on behalf of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples

CONGRESS OF ABORIGINAL PEOPLES 48TH ANNUAL GENERAL ASSEMBLYThe Congress celebrates 48 years of advocating for the rights and interest of Non-Status Off-Reserve Indigenous peoples

WE WILL NOT BE FORGOTTENDay of action for Indigenous Justice gets Ministers Attention

PROVINCIAL PROFILE SERIESNative Council of Prince Edward Island

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VOICETHE INDIGENOUS

The Indigenous Voice is the officialpublication of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples. As one of five national Indigenous representative organizations recognized by the Government of Canada, CAP advocates for the rights and interests of Métis people, non-status/status Indians living off-reserve and the Inuit of Southern Labrador. CAP represents the interests of its provincial and territorial affiliate organizations.

Published Triannually For:Congress of Aboriginal Peoples

867 St. Laurent Blvd.Ottawa, ON K1K 3B1Tel: (613) 747-6022Toll Free: 1(888) 997-9927Fax: (613) 747-8834Website: abo-peoples.org

PublisherCarol Pashko

Executive EditorRobert Russell

Copy EditorThomas Pashko

Design SpecialistCarolyn Beck, B.Des., Beck Designs

Advertising SalesJohn [email protected]

Published by:PKO Publishing515 Poplar Avenue. St.Andrews MB. R1A 3G4

All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced by any means in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples.

Published December 2019

time.TIME FOR MY INTERESTS

TIME FOR MY LEARNING

Our world-class accredited programs offer you the flexibility to learn at your own pace, on a schedule that suits your lifestyle.

go.athabascau.ca/indigenous

3THE INDIGENOUS VOICE FALL 2019

I am pleased to present the latest edition of The Indigenous Voice, a publication of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples (CAP). We are excited to share with our readers news and stories of Métis, Non-Status / Status Indians and Inuit peoples living off-reserve, whom we represent. The Indigenous Voice celebrates the unique heritage, diverse cultures, and outstanding achievements of our communities across Canada. This edition focuses on the tireless advocacy and efforts of our people to call on all levels of government and fellow Canadians to recognize and uphold the rights, interests, and needs of our off-reserve peoples. CAP continues to advocate for the rights of those we represent and the priorities outlined in the CAP-Canada Political Accord. Together with our Provincial and Territorial Organizations (PTO) and community members, we held a Day of Action at Parliament Hill on June 20th. After this Day of Action and significant negotiations, the federal government committed to resource the first stages of implementation of our Political Accord. We thank the PTOs and the community from coast to coast for coming out and supporting this action. In September, CAP held its 48th Annual General Assembly (AGA) in Ottawa. This Assembly is an opportunity for our national delegation to celebrate successes of the past year, and build the direction and vision for the year ahead. Inside you will find a recap of the 48th AGA, as well as a feature on this year’s Aboriginal Youth Achievement Award winner, an award sponsored by CAP’s National Youth Council. After the release of the Final Report and the closing of the Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG), CAP is motivated to ensuring the government remains committed to advancing the issues faced by the women, girls, and 2SLGBTTQIA peoples in our communities. You will find an article inside about what this means to CAP. In the wake of the federal election in October, we are working to build new relationships and strengthen those already established. CAP will continue to advocate for the inclusion and well-being of our people. We will not be forgotten. As we approach the holiday season, and the final days of 2019, we can reflect on the accomplishments of this year. I want to wish you and your loved ones a happy and healthy holiday season. We look forward to even greater successes in 2020.

Meegwetch, National Chief Robert Bertrand

WELCOMEMessage from

National Chief Robert Bertrand

J'ai le plaisir de vous présenter le dernier numéro de The Indigenous Voice, une publication du Congrès des peuples autochtones (CPA). Nous sommes ravis de partager avec nos lecteurs des nouvelles et des histoires de notre électorat des peuples Métis, Indiens non-inscrits ou inscrits, et Inuits vivant hors réserve et que nous représentons avec fierté. The Indigenous Voice célèbre l'héritage unique, la diversité des cultures et les réalisations exceptionnelles de nos communautés partout au Canada. Cette édition met l'accent sur les efforts inlassables de notre peuple à demander aux gouvernements, à tous les niveaux, ainsi qu’à nos concitoyens canadiens de reconnaitre et de défendre les droits, les intérêts et les besoins de nos peuples autochtones vivant hors réserve. Le CPA continue à défendre les droits de ceux qu’il représente et les priorités énoncées dans l’Accord politique CPA-Canada. C’est dans cet élan que le CPA, en collaboration avec nos organisations provinciales et territoriales (OPT) et les membres de la communauté, a organisé une journée d'action sur la colline du Parlement le 20 juin dernier. Après cette journée d'action et d'importantes négociations, le gouvernement fédéral s'est engagé à financer les premières étapes de la mise en œuvre de notre accord politique. Nous remercions les OTP et les communautés des quatre coins du pays d’avoir pris la parole pour appuyer cette action. En septembre, le CPA a tenu sa 48e Assemblée générale annuelle (AGA) à Ottawa. Ce fut une occasion pour notre délégation nationale de célébrer les succès de l'année écoulée et de définir l'orientation et la vision pour l'année à venir. Dans ce numéro, vous trouverez un récapitulatif de la 48e AGA, ainsi qu’un article sur la récipiendaire du Prix d’excellence pour les jeunes Autochtones de cette année, un prix parrainé par le Conseil national de la jeunesse du CPA. Après la publication du rapport final et la clôture de l’enquête sur les femmes et les filles autochtones disparues et assassinées (FFADA), le CPA est déterminé à faire en sorte que le gouvernement reste engagé à résoudre les problèmes auxquels les femmes, les filles et les 2SLGBTTQIA sont confrontées dans nos communautés. Vous trouverez plus d’informations sur l’importance de cette enquête pour le CPA à travers un des articles de cette édition du magazine. Maintenant que les élections fédérales sont passées, nous travaillons à l’établissement de nouvelles relations et au renforcement de celles déjà établies. Le CPA continuera à plaider pour l'inclusion et le bien-être des peuples qu’il représente et dont il fait partie. Nous ne serons pas oubliés. En ces dernières semaines de 2019 et à l'approche de la période des fêtes, nous contemplons les réalisations de cette année et nous préparons pour plus de réussite pour la prochaine. Je souhaite à vous et à vos proches une bonne et heureuse saison des fêtes.

Meegwetch, de Robert Bertrand, Chef National

Bienvenue Message du

Chef National Robert Bertrand

Congress of Aboriginal Peoples

48th Annual General Assembly By Jessica Dawson

T

Indigenous delegates from around the country voting at the 48th Annual General Assembly.

he 48th Annual General Assembly (AGA) of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples (CAP) opened on the morning of Friday, Sept. 27, 2019 at Ottawa Marriott

Hotel. The grand entrance was performed by Elders, veterans, youth, and the flag parade, who were followed by the St. Pierre dancers to the traditional drumming of the White Wolf Big Drum Group. Elder Jim Smith welcomed the delegation and blessed the assembly with a morning prayer and the Recital of Remembrance. CAP National Chief Robert Bertrand offered welcoming remarks to participants. He acknowledged the great work that has been done and expressed his excitement about the work that still lies ahead.

The Assembly, which provides the national delegation an opportunity to come together and celebrate the achievements of the past year, also sets the vision and goals for the coming years. The central theme of these achievements and discussions was the signing of the CAP-Canada Political Accord in December 2018 and the upcoming work to implement the shared priorities within. Robust participation in the development, proposal, and discussion of resolutions led to the carrying of twenty strong and innovative decisions for the coming year at CAP. The Assembly delegation is ready to take bold steps to address the challenges and discrimination faced by CAP’s constituents. There was consensus on shared priorities and

4 THE INDIGENOUS VOICE FALL 2019


direction in the areas of housing, justice, child welfare, health, rights and traditional knowledge. Delegates and guests attended the annual gala dinner and dance that evening, which included the presentation of the 2019 Aboriginal Youth Achievement Award, sponsored and organized by CAP’s National Youth Council. The gala is a time for festivity and fellowship, including the celebration of life for late Louis George “Smokey” Bruyere, former president of the Native Council of Canada and life-long advocate of the Métis and non-status community. Friends and colleagues honoured him with personal stories and anecdotes, followed by a moving photo tribute featuring decades of memories. Smokey leaves the community with a legacy of spirit, comradery, and hope for future generations. Many people in our communities are survivors of the 60s Scoop, and in the continued work of a resolution from 2018, CAP has been calling on the Government of Canada to act in the spirit of reconciliation and stop the exclusion of Métis and non-status Indian 60s Scoop survivors from negotiations for settlement agreements. During the Assembly, delegates had the opportunity to visit an exhibition called Bi-Giwen: Coming Home – Truth Telling from the Sixties Scoop. This exhibit, curated by the Legacy of Hope Foundation, features personal testimonies from 12 Indigenous survivors of the Scoop, which were shared in different media formats. Participants remarked on the benefits of this powerful exhibit at the AGA. The AGA closed with a sense of direction for CAP to move forward with unity in its pursuit of the rights and recognition of Indigenous peoples. We will not be forgotten. A grand exit was performed by Elders, veterans, youth and flag parade, and drummers who were led by the young St. Pierre dancers in their colourful regalia.

Elders, Chiefs and Youth during the opening ceremonies of the 48th Annual General Assembly.

Delegates at the 48th Annual General Assembly.

60's Scoop Display "Bi-Giwen" during a viewing at the Assembly.

We Will Not Be ForgottenDay of Action for Indigenous Justice

Gets Ministers' Attention

For part of the afternoon, CAP joined with Algonquin Anishinabeg Nation in front of the former US embassy at 100 Wellington Street. The Anishinabeg were there to protest the federal government’s unwillingness to include them in plans for future use of the building, which is located on their unceded territory. The building is to be turned into a cultural centre for Indigenous peoples, with input into the project limited to three other National Indigenous Organizations. Since then, the federal government has agreed to provide a space on nearby Sparks St. to the Anishinibeg. Later, on the lawn of Parliament, protesters encountered a group of MPs and refused to be ignored. Bennett and O’Regan, as well as Maryam Monsef, the Minister for Women and Gender Equality, were confronted by CAP Leaders including National Chief Robert Bertrand and Native Council of Nova Scotia president and Chief Lorraine Augustine. “You don’t work hard enough for us,” Chief Augustine told Bennett. “You are saying one thing and breathing another.” The encounter paid off. All three ministers arranged for more formal meetings with CAP in the weeks following the Day of Action.

hanting “We will not be Forgotten,” and “Inclusion not Exclusion,” over one hundred CAP supporters turned out for a day of action at Parliament Hill on

June 20. They were there to demand the government live up to the Daniels decision by ending the discrimination faced by our peoples – the off-reserve, non-status, Métis and Southern Inuit. The Day of Action was organized because CAP, one of five nationally-recognized Indigenous organizations, one that sat at the constitutional table, was being deliberately excluded from negotiations and the development of legislation and programs, between the Trudeau government and others. Before the day was over CAP leaders had a chance to speak face to face with Carolyn Bennett, the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, and Minister of Indigenous Services Seamus O’Regan. Activists gathered on the Hill in the morning to show their solidarity. Participants came from across Ontario, Quebec and from as far away as Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. “Today we told the government you must recognize the rights of our peoples and end the discrimination against them,” National Chief Robert Bertrand said. “They must uphold the rights of all Indigenous peoples. You can’t have reconciliation without engaging the over 70% majority that live off-reserve”

By Stephen Cudmore

C



Native Council of Nova Scotia's Michael White protesting on Parliament Hill during the Day of Action.

Vice Chief Kim Beaudin and National Chief Robert Bertrand at the Day of Action on Parliament Hill.

Protesters representing the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples during the Day of Action.


National Chief Robert Bertrand talks with Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations Carolyn Bennett about our concerns during the Day of Action.


If you are interested in Social Innovation and Wìdjìwàgan and would like tolearn more or contribute, please contact Molly at [email protected]

WìdjìwàganSharing Our Stories:

A Traditional and Modern Knowledge Exchange

What is SocialInnovation?It is a response to asocial orenvironmentalproblem that results inbetter outcomes thanexisting approaches.Social Innovationshave transformativeimpacts, deliveringimprovements acrossorganizations,communities, regions,or systems.

The Congress of Aboriginal Peoples is developing atraditional and modern knowledge exchange programcalled Wìdjìwàgan - Sharing Our Stories. This program willprovide Indigenous communities with the opportunity toexplore modern and traditional approaches to SocialInnovation, apply them to relevant environmental and socialissues and ultimately lead to positive impacts andtransformative change!

Figure 1

By Sarah Mitchell

C

Canada’s Skilled Trades Crisis!

anada is on the cusp of a labour crisis. According to Statistics Canada, there is an ever-widening gap between the need for skilled tradespeople and

availability of such workers. Over the next decade, 400,000 young Indigenous people will be eligible to enter the workforce. With the right skills and training, this population could be a significant source of labour for the skilled trades. There has never been a better

time to enter the trades in Canada. The huge demand for skilled tradespeople could mean a tremendous opportunity for CAP’s constituents. A career in the trades can offer steady employment, great salaries and meaningful work. Last year, approximately 65% of CAP’s Indigenous Skills and Employment Training (ISET) program budget went to skilled trades programs. Our constituents love the trades!

Earning PotentialMany skilled trades people earn incomes above the national average. These are well-paying jobs!

Earn While You LearnYou can earn hours towards completing your certification while getting paid!

RespectSkilled trades play an important role in our economy and society. Almost every facet of our lives is affected by the trades – the cars we drive, the houses we live in, the buildings we work in. Skilled tradespeople are respected because of the highly specialized expertise they possess.

DemandThere is a huge demand for many skilled trades, which means regular, steady work!

MobilityIf you have Red Seal certification, you can practice your trade in any province or territory.

Less Student DebtMany tradespeople are not overwhelmed by student debt upon graduation. The cost of post-secondary training to become a tradesperson is, on average, less expensive than a university degree - and you can earn while you learn!

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A CAREER IN THE SKILLED TRADES?



Certification Matters!

Certified tradespeople make more money than non-certified tradespeople.

The path to becoming a skilled trades person can be a challenge to navigate. It is a multi-step process, with requirements varying from province to province. Basically, in order to become a certified journeyperson in Canada (a certified skilled worker), the general path is as follows:

1. Graduate from high school (note: depending on the province, you can earn hours towards your apprenticeship while still in high school).

2. Find an employer to take you on as an apprentice.

3. Register for apprenticeship in-classroom training (employment as an apprentice and in-classroom training usually take place simultaneously). You must accumulate a predetermined amount of training hours and in-classroom training to qualify to write a certification exam.

4. Upon successfully completing your apprenticeship/ in-class training, if you are in a trade that requires a provincial certification, you must write the Red Seal certification examination. (Note: certification is not mandatory for every trade.)

5. Once this process is complete, you are a certified Journeyperson!

What is a Journeyperson?

A journeyperson is a skilled worker who has successfully completed an appropriate combination of apprenticeship training, in-classroom training, and, if required, has successfully passed the Red Seal examination.

What is an Apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a form of work-based learning. Approximately 80% of training is on-the-job training with an employer, while 20% is completed in school, in most cases alternating between the two. The apprentice works under the supervision of a journeyperson. Apprenticeships are typically four years long and can lead to trade certification (upon writing the Red Seal examination). An apprenticeship is attractive to many of our constituents, one reason being that you can earn while you learn!

What is the Red Seal Program?

The Red Seal Program is a federal-provincial-territorial partnership that works with industry to set common standards and assess the skills of tradespeople. Tradespeople who have successfully passed the Red Seal examination receive a Red Seal endorsement on their provincial/territorial trade certificate.

Are you interested in working in the skilled trades?

If you would like to hear some success stories of our constituents working in the trades or if a career in the skilled trades sounds like a good fit for you, please contact:

Matthew Gallina, CAP Training Coordinator Email: [email protected] or Call: 613-747-6022 (ext. 225)

Indigenous students taking part in Line the Crew Ground Support program offered by the Infrastructure Health and Safety Association that was sponsored by the CAP.


INDIGENOUS STORIESSTREAMING NOW

FIND OUT MORE AT WATCHAPTNLUMI.CA

WATCH

FIRST CONTACT

ON


ach year, CAP’s National Youth Council uses its platform to give back to youth in our communities

who are committed to advocating for and empowering off-reserve Indigenous, Métis and Southern Inuit youth in Canada. This year we would like to recognize the achievements of Bethany Sunday Shortt from Vancouver, B.C. Shortt is a young person who has faced challenges in her life that have continuously inspired her to fight for change in the urban Indigenous community in Vancouver, with which she identifies. From her mental health advocacy to her work with the Aboriginal Life in Vancouver Enhancement Society as the Elders’ research coordinator, Bethany has shown tremendous compassion for her communities. She is in the process of completing her high school education with the goal of attending university to pursue a bachelor’s degree in social work while also creating a social justice arts collective in order to help reduce barriers to art production and promotion. Shortt’s perseverance, ability to overcome challenges and her focus on community growth has made her this year’s choice for the Aboriginal Youth Achievement Award.

Chaque année, le Conseil national de la jeunesse de Congrès des peuples autochtones donne l’occasion à aux jeunes de se distinguer à travers son prix d’Excellence. Ce prix reconnaît chaque année un jeune de nos communautés qui démontre son engagement envers les peuples autochtones, Métis et Inuit qui vivent hors réserve. Cette année, on veut reconnaître les efforts de Bethany Sunday Shortt de Vancouver, C.-B. Bethany Sunday Shortt est une jeune femme qui a sur faire face aux difficultés de la vie et s’en inspirer à combattre les injustices dans les communautés autochtones en milieu urbain avec lesquelles elle s’identifie, précisément à Vancouver. De la défense de la santé mentale au travail avec Aboriginal Life a Vancouver dans le cadre de son emploi en tant que coordonatrice de recherche des ainés, Bethany a fait preuve de beaucoup de compassion pour les communautés auprès desquelles elle s’implique.. Bethany terminer actuellement ses études secondaires et a pour objectif de poursuivre ses études en université dans un baccalauréat de travail social, tout en créant un collectif artistique axé sur la justice sociale visant à réduire les obstacles à la production et à la promotion de l'art.

La persévérance de Bethany, sa capacité à surmonter les défis et son intérêt pour la croissance de la communauté font d’elle la lauréate du Prix de la réussite des jeunes Autochtones.

E

Bethany Sunday Shortt Aboriginal Youth Achievement

Award Recipient


Your place to celebrate and succeed.Discover Bow Valley College’s Iniikokaan Centre to engage with First Nations and Metis Elders, access Indigenous scholarships, and take part in traditional ceremonies for student support and growth. Welcome to a centre committed to helping learners like you succeed.

Learn more at bowvalleycollege.ca


Our College is located in where the Bow River meets the Elbow River, the traditional Blackfoot name for this place is Mohkinstsis (Calgary). We are in the traditional territory of the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot) and, in Treaty 7 territory. We acknowledge the Siksika, Piikani, Kainai, Tssut’ina, Iyarhe Nakoda and the Métis Nation of Alberta Region III. We also have satellite campuses located across Treaty 7 territory in Canmore, Banff, Strathmore, High River, Okoktoks, Airdrie, Cochrane.

Bow Valley College respects and values the long-standing relationships we have with Indigenous Communities. Our College has a growing presence of Indigenous learners, alumni, faculty and staff who play a key role in advancing educational, professional, and social outcomes of Indigenous peoples in Calgary and beyond.

We have a number of Indigenous specific student supports including the Iniikokaan Centre, our Indigenous student centre where learners from all background can connect with Indigenous Elders, participate in ceremony, connect with academic supports and study together. The Iniikokaan Centre was established in 2008 and in 2013 it was renovated and relocated to a beautiful new space. It is fully ventilated for ceremonial purposes and the Iniikokaan Centre provides sacred medicine for those wishing to smudge. There is a monthly student smudge led by a cultural resource Elder who also provides teachings about the smudge.

Iniikokaan Centre and staff also lead cultural events across campus and around the community, like Orange Shirt Day, Honouring our Indigenous Veterans ceremony, Indigenous Awareness Month and the Indigenous Showcase and pow wow in partnership with the City of Calgary.

The Student Association at Bow Valley College supports student clubs, the newest of which is SOAR (Supporting Our Actions Towards Reconciliation). SOAR provides an opportunity for students from all backgrounds to come together

to foster truth and reconciliation dialogues through events based learning across our campus.

With the release of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) Final Report and Calls to Action in 2015, we recognized the need to increase resources to support our reconciliation and indigenization journey.

Within the TRC Calls to Action, were a number that specifically apply to the work of educational institutions. Among them, they include improving educational outcomes for Indigenous learners and bringing Indigenous ways of being, knowing and learning into the classrooms and into our teaching styles, through the voices of Indigenous peoples.

To advance this work, Bow Valley College identified as a core action in the 2018 – 2021 Comprehensive Institutional Plan the need to develop and implement an Indigenization Strategy, supporting the institutions goal of fostering an environment of inclusion and respect.

We have created several new positions since 2017 including the Indigenous Learner Liaison, Indigenous Partnerships Officer, Indigenous Curriculum Specialist, and the Indigenization Strategy Specialist. We are continue to evaluate the human and financial resources required to authentically, decolonize and indigenize our institution.

Our Indigenization Strategy is focused on: recruiting and retaining Indigenous learners and employees across the college, building awareness of Indigenous culture and history through events and curriculum based learning, fostering mutually beneficial relationships with Indigenous communities and organizations.





or the past year the environment has loomed large in public consciousness. The growing crisis

around climate change is capturing the attention of policymakers and the general public to a degree not seen before. Historic climate disasters

struck around the world, but support for acting and protecting nature for future generations has grown.

In August, the world was shocked to see the Amazon rainforest being intentionally burned on an unprecedented scale, with the help of the Brazilian government. These fires threatened the territories of Indigenous peoples living throughout Brazil, destroying ancient ecosystems and damaging a major carbon sink. In support of the rights of Indigenous peoples around the world, the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples (CAP) spoke out in protest against this flagrant abuse of their traditional territory. “If Canada wants to protect global climate security, we must protect Indigenous human rights in South America,” said

National Chief Robert Bertrand. “The two issues are inseparable. Ensure that their rights, enshrined under UNDRIP, are respected, and you support the forest’s stewards. This campaign to rob Indigenous people of their land is a campaign to steal the forest from the world. We call on Canada to prioritize these concerns on the world stage.” The connection between the environment, climate change and protection of Indigenous rights is a theme which CAP will continue to emphasize in our work in Canada and around the world. Closer to home, the climate strike movement has inspired youth across

F

lHistoric climate disasters struck around the world...

CAP Rallying Members Across the Countryand Across Generations

By Patrick Snider

Climate Change

Youth protesters in Ottawa during the Climate Change Strike March.



the country to turn out for the largest protests in Canadian history, calling on government to act on carbon emissions and climate change. CAP Youth Representatives were part of these demonstrations. At the CAP 2019 Annual General Assembly (AGA), youth representatives marched alongside 100,000 other participants in Ottawa to call on government to prioritize effective carbon emissions and climate change policy. This was not the only environmental action at CAP’s 2019 AGA. Representatives passed an environmental policy resolution highlighting the importance of Indigenous perspectives on the environment. This resolution calls for “strong and urgent” action on climate change, inclusion and respect for the traditional knowledge of Indigenous peoples in addressing environmental challenges, and national collaboration between CAP, its provincial and territorial organizations (PTOs) and

the federal, provincial and territorial governments. Slowly, leaders in Canada and around the world are listening to these calls to action. CAP’s 2018 Political Accord with the government of Canada sets out several areas for collaboration on environmental issues. Important among these are acknowledging the role of off-reserve peoples in resource development projects, building the capacity of CAP’s PTOs to advise and be consulted. Including these communities supports sustainable development, environmental protection and employment for those who need it most. Over the past year, CAP has been consulted on environmental matters by several federal departments such as Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNAC), Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), Global Affairs Canada, as well as by government ministers such as Carolyn Bennett.

At these meetings, we’ve discussed CAP’s policies and role in the areas of environment, resource development, and sharing Indigenous perspectives and knowledge. CAP continues to work towards turning these discussions into action, but progress remains slow. Acknowledgement of the off-reserve and non-status Indigenous role in setting environmental policy, participating in resource development and acting as a truly equal partner has yet to fully materialize. Supporting these consultations, CAP has engaged additional staff with our policy team to support our research and advocacy work. These positions, funded by CIRNAC Indigenous Representative Organization (IRO) agreements, will be producing reports on environmental policy, as well as other research areas. CAP is no stranger to fighting an uphill battle for recognition. But we continue to make progress, whether it is winning the CAP-Daniels decision,

Protecting People and The Environment.At the Nuclear Waste Management Organization, we’re responsible for Canada’s plan for the safe, long-term management of used nuclear fuel.

Canada’s plan involves safely containing and isolating used nuclear fuel in an area with suitable geology and informed, willing hosts. The plan is adaptive to advances in technical learnings and international best practices.

Every day, we are conscious of our duty to be accountable to Canadians—to work and learn together, and to protect our safety, our environment and this beautiful land.

@NWMOCanada

nwmo.caDig deeper, learn more


signing the 2018 Political Accord with the federal government, or ensuring that our constituents’ environmental concerns are heard.On an international stage, CAP has participated in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), through the Facilitative Working Group (FWG) of the Local Communities and Indigenous Peoples Platform (LCIPP). At the last meeting, from June 14 to 16 in Bonn, Germany, the Maritime Aboriginal Peoples Council (MAPC) representative attended on behalf of CAP, to help draft an initial workplan for the group advising the United Nations. Previously, CAP national chief Robert Bertrand attended the 2018 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Katowice, Poland, hosting discussions among other Indigenous organizations around climate change strategies and cooperation. In line with CAP’s advocacy, Canada pledged to support LCIPP to ensure Indigenous perspectives are heard. On its announcement, National Chief Robert Bertrand said, "The realization of the Local Communities and Indigenous Peoples Platform and a dedicated focal point will open the door for Indigenous Peoples and their knowledge in these important

discussions under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. The Congress of Aboriginal Peoples appreciates the Canadian government's leadership to get the Platform on its feet and working for Indigenous Peoples." The FWG is only beginning its work and has an extensive workplan to accomplish in the coming years. The centerpiece of this plan is to reach out to Indigenous communities around the world, to consult on best practices around traditional knowledge and the impacts of climate change and develop recommendations which take that knowledge into account. Over the coming months CAP will be participating in the Santiago Climate Change Conference in November and December of 2019. This will be an opportunity to continue to act on CAP’s AGA resolutions, ensuring that Indigenous voices are heard and considered by policymakers, that Indigenous knowledge is integrated into global agreements and that Indigenous interests are respected. Moving forward, we will continue to build on our mission, ensuring that our constituents continue to have a place at the table, both in Canada and around the world.

Plan to join 1,200 of your colleagues to explore Indigenous education, training

and employment at Cannexus, Canada’s largest career development conference.

Register by November 6 to save with the Early Bird rate!

Choose from 150 sessions including:

Check Cannexus.ca regularly for the latest information!

“Cannexus allows you take time to look at career development from both a micro level to a bird’s eye

view. Received validation of what we are doing and inspiration to keep

doing it.” Steven Horne, Director, Employment and Training,

Tewatohnhi’saktha, QC

“Perfect mix of excellent concurrent sessions, engaging keynotes and

time to network.”

Paula Pothier, Student Services Advisor & Indigenous Support, Nova Scotia Community

College

Strategies to Welcome, Recruit & Retain Indigenous Talent

Merging Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Values for Student Success

Indigenous Career Assessment Tools? Perspectives from Indigenous Counsellors

Urban Indigenous Homeward Bound (UIHB)

Findings from Data Analysis of First Nations Employment

January 27-29, 2020

Zita Cobb

Tristram Hooley

Natan Obed

INSPIRING KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

Best Practices from the Aboriginal Peoples Employment Program

Indigenous Youth Self-Discovery and Development Through International Experience

Youth protesters in Ottawa during the Climate Change Strike March.


By Shelagh Roxburgh

Missing and Murdered Indigenous

Women and GirlsFinal Report is Just the Beginning

he final report from the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) was released on June 3. In addition to the more than

1000-page report titled Reclaiming Power and Place, the inquiry also released numerous accompanying documents, reports and analyses. These documents attempted to convey three years of research on an issue that is hundreds of years old and which has likely affected tens of thousands of Indigenous women and girls over this time. In their reports, the inquiry sought to address systemic and structural issues that contribute to violence against Indigenous women and girls, such as the overrepresentation of Indigenous children in the child welfare system, racism in police forces and across the justice system and the sexual exploitation of Indigenous women and children. From their research, community hearings, expert testimonies and analysis of police records, the commissioners produced 231 “calls for justice.” These calls for justice aren’t just recommendations, but legal imperatives. From the beginning, the inquiry faced numerous challenges. The scope of the inquiry was too narrow, leaving out cold cases and closed cases where suspicion remained or families contested the findings. The inquiry also suffered from a limited timeline and was denied requests to extend its mandate, though this would have given the commissioners more time to press the RCMP for documents and information that were continuously withheld. The inquiry was also forced to work without reliable data, no estimate of the true number of cases, and limited information about the experiences of Métis and Inuit women and girls or Two-Spirit people. Outside of the inquiry, many

Canadians remained passive spectators to the process and many more continue to observe apathetically or express denial in response to its findings, particularly in response to the legal analysis linking violence against Indigenous women and girls to acts of genocide. Despite all of this, one of the greatest challenges is also one of the least discussed: the mistaken perception that the closing of the inquiry is the end of this story. The normalization of violence against Indigenous women and girls has not been unchallenged. Instead, the pressing imperative of the colonial system is to use the inquiry and its limited scope as a justification for treating this issue as closed, something that has been addressed and is now past, even something that is now resolved. Like the Truth and Reconciliation Commission on residential schools and the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples before it, the MMIWG Inquiry risks becoming a closed book in the minds of Canadians and ticked box on the to-do lists of governments. This year, the government of Canada opened a call for commemoration initiatives to memorialize Indigenous women and girls lost to violence, a call that misleads the public and fosters a false assurance that this issue has been effectively addressed. Indigenous women, girls and 2+LGBTQQIA people in Canada continue to be murdered and disappear. Media sources and politicians participate in disseminating misinformation and continue to advance the mistaken belief that this is an Indigenous issue, rather than the product of ongoing systemic racism and colonial bias. The story of MMIWG is not over and many more stories have yet to be heard. It is not yet time to remember and move on. This work has only just begun.

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Including Two Spirits Gender Equity In Indigenous Communities

By Kole Peplinskie

ender equality is a major buzz word in Indigenous policy right now. From the issue of MMIWG to residential school settlements, gender influences

everything that impacts our communities. However, when we talk about gender equality there is often a gap left by excluding LGBTQ+ and Two-Spirit identities among Indigenous communities. The exclusion of gender-diverse identities (including transgender people and people who exist outside of the male-female gender binary) from our Indigenous siblings decreases their access to cultural and traditional knowledge, while increasing instances of mental illness and rates of suicidal ideation. Suicidal thoughts and completion rates are already higher in Indigenous communities than the greater population and in recent years, experts in the mental health field have linked the discrimination of Two-Spirit and LGBTQ+ Indigenous individuals to the youth suicide crisis in our communities. Two-Spirit is a word created in the early 1990s by a group of LGBTQ+ Indigenous community members to reclaim

G some of the cultural and traditional ways of gender that were lost and hidden by settler colonialism. It is important to note that although Two-Spirit is a label that can be applied to gender diverse Indigenous people, not all those who hold those identities choose to use this label and may choose another label from the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to settlers arriving, many Indigenous communities on Turtle Island (now colonially known as North America) had more than the two genders commonly recognized today – man and woman. These gender-diverse people were seen as having a special relationship to the Creator and were given special roles in their communities based on their gifts. Gender was not based on one’s biology, but on their role within their community. Since Two-Spirit individuals were revered in their communities, often as the mediators and peace keepers, they were often the first people to have contact with settlers. When settlers first arrived, their narrow and religious concepts of gender and family did not recognize these


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Two-Spirits, and therefore violently suppressed these identities. Two-Spirits were either forced to adhere to the gender that matched their biology or were literally killed by the hands of the settlers. This violence was also acted upon Two-Spirit bodies in subtle ways, separating children entering residential schools by their biological gender and punishing them when they did not adhere to those rigid rules. Since the introduction of the gender binary by settler colonialism hundreds of years ago, it only makes sense that Indigenous communities have mostly adopted these notions of gender as a means of survival. Traditions have become steeped in the gender binary, seen through community members policing what individuals wear in ceremony – specifically forcing those who they think are women into skirts to access vital traditional knowledge and healing.

Where does that leave Indigenous people who do not identify within these gender boxes? There is an increasing attitude that being Two-Spirit is wrong, resulting in people feeling marginalized and alienated, leading to mental distress and sometimes ending in suicide. Living at the intersections of Indigenous and LGBTQ+ identities can leave individuals feeling on the outside of both of these community spaces, having to choose which identity to embody depending on the space they occupy. It is an important first step that we in the Indigenous community acknowledge the existence of Two-Spirit folks in our communities to this day, that there is no one way to be Two-Spirit and that they are impacted in very specific ways by gender inequality and gender-based violence. By including Two-Spirit voices and perspectives in gender equality conversations and policy, we are actively participating in suicide prevention.

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Provincial Profile Series

The Provincial Profile Series is a new feature for the Indigenous Voice. It is intended to introduce Indigenous and Non-Indigenous people to our communities throughout Canada. In this edition, we introduce you to Native Council of Prince Edward Island.

rince Edward Island’s off-reserve community is sizeable and diverse, comprising the majority of the Indigenous population of P.E.I., and encompassing

citizens of some 14 different nations. Since 1975, the Native Council of Prince Edward Island (NCPEI) has been advocating for the rights, needs and interests of the off-reserve Indigenous peoples on P.E.I. Over the last 45 years, NCPEI has also had profound experience and considerable success addressing the social determinants of health for the off-reserve Indigenous population through its suite of programs and services. NCPEI staff includes an elected President and Chief, a representative Board of Directors and a passionate team of staff and frontline workers who serve the daily needs and requirements of the off-reserve population of Indigenous Islanders. NCPEI’s mandate also includes running a communal and commercial fishery operation, L’nu Fisheries. NCPEI also owns and operates a successful rent-geared-to-income housing corporation, Nanegkam Housing, which is a much-needed response to the problem of affordable housing for Indigenous people who do not live on reserve.

NCPEI takes its direction and focus from the needs of the community. With a membership exceeding 1,000 people, NCPEI has an active and engaged constituency to draw on for ideas, support and leadership. NCPEI believes interacting regularly with its membership is integral to this process. NCPEI breaks down its membership into three geographical zones. Leadership, board and frontline staff meet with members in those three zones at least four times a year to gather feedback through town halls and zone meetings. This process allows NCPEI to engage, communicate and consult its membership regularly. NCPEI’s frontline staff works closely with the community to affect positive change in the lives of Indigenous people who live off-reserve. Indigenous culture and identity are reborn and revitalized through the programs and services NCPEI offers. Each family member helped by the Strengthening Aboriginal Families Effectively (SAFE) program has the chance to improve the life of those they care about. Each client assisted by the Aboriginal Mental Health and Addiction Program (AMHAP) is presented with the opportunity to change their life and the life of the

Native Council of Prince Edward Island

Presenting,


Bonnie Kippenhuck (left) and Shandy Smith

family that supports them. Each student who enrolls in the Indigenous Skills, Education and Training (ISET) program has the chance to pursue the life and career of their dreams. Each time a member learns how to drum, the languages of Indigenous peoples or how to smudge. They have the chance to access culturally sensitive programming that reconnects them with the traditional and cultural knowledge of their Elders. NCPEI provides too many programs and services to list, but frontline work sits at the heart of NCPEI: serving the future of the off-reserve Indigenous peoples of P.E.I. through representation, advocacy and action. As one of the oldest and most active members in the CAP family, NCPEI is proud to be part of the network of people working passionately to serve the off-reserve Indigenous peoples of P.E.I. NCPEI looks forward to a continued and growing partnership with CAP and to at least 45 more years of assuring that the needs of off-reserve Indigenous peoples are never neglected, forgotten or ignored.

L'nu Fishery Lobster Boat

NCPEI Community

Chief Lisa Cooper with

an Indigenous student

sponsored through their

training program.



ceremonies, and advocate for water protection. Receiving water teachings and ceremonies from the well-known water walker, Peltier has found her path to fight for Indigenous rights to safe drinking water. Water walking is ceremony. It teaches that water is vital not only to immediate survival but for future generations. Water conditions are dire in some Indigenous communities across Canada. In a recent Vice article, Peltier said, “Canada is not a Third World country but some of our First

Nations are living in Third World conditions,” referring to how many Indigenous communities across Canada are under boil water advisories for many years and access contaminated water supplies. Bringing awareness of these conditions to the world stage at the UN has earned Peltier the title of chief water commissioner by the Anishinabek Nation, an advocacy group for 40 Ontario First Nations. She was also named by the North American Association for Environmental Education as one of their top 30 Under 30 environmental educators in 2018 and is nominated for the 2019 International Children’s Peace Prize. With her many impressive accolades, the humble teen is focusing on how to empower others to do the same work and proactively looking for solutions for Indigenous communities’ access to clean drinking water.

Water Warrior Autumn Peltier demands

clean water for Indigenous peoples

By Stephanie Edgar

hile many young climate advocates are emerging on the scene, water warrior Autumn Peltier has been paving the way since she was eight years old.

Peltier is an in-demand speaker who is making a splash nationally and internationally. She has over 100,000 Instagram followers and a lipstick named after her from Indigenous-owned makeup company Cheekbone Beauty. Notably, she has accomplished all of this by age 15. Hailing from Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory on Manitoulin Island, Peltier grew up surrounded by water. The territory is located on the largest freshwater island in the world and the heart of the Great Lakes. At the Global Landscapes Forum at the UN headquarters in Manhattan on Sept. 28, Peltier stated, “I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it again: we can’t eat money or drink oil”. Her message is clear, calling upon world leaders to use their power to “warrior up” to make access to safe drinking water universal and ensure water protection. Sadly, her message of universal safe drinking water isn’t a new one. Indigenous peoples have been advocating for water for many decades, but often their voices have been excluded or not acknowledged. “Water is life” and other sacred teachings are cultural messages from ceremonies that acknowledge Indigenous peoples as protectors of the land. Peltier is following in the footsteps of her great aunt, the water walker Grandmother Josephine Mandamin. It is estimated that Mandamin has walked more than 20,000 km around the Great Lakes to raise awareness around the importance of water conservation, perform water

W

...some of our First Nations are living in Third World conditions...

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We will NOT be Forgotten€¦ · Government of Canada, CAP advocates for the rights and interests...

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