OF TREES AND THEIR WISDOM Poetry and Short Stories By Albert Dumont OF TREES AND THEIR WISDOM. Poetry and Short Stories

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1 Band Council News VOLUME 2, ISSUE 2 KITIGAN ZIBI ANISHINABEG Working together for a better community. IN THIS ISSUE OF COUNCIL NEWS Meetings Attended by the Chief...8 Band Council Resolutions...9 Creation of the Kitigan Zibi Reserve...14 Dates for Future Community Band Meetings...16 Message from Chief Gilbert W. Whiteduck Kwey Kakina, I wish to begin by sincerely thanking all community members who provide volunteer services in the community. The important contribution of volunteers often goes unnoticed but their contributions are an important factor for positive community development. The contributions of volunteers are provided through various means and in different circumstances. The one thing that is clear about people who do volunteer work is that they have a deep sense of community and want to contribute to its positive growth. Kichi migwech volunteers. It has been about 6 months since we distributed Volume 2, Issue 1 of the Band Council News (July 2009). The Band Council has been quite busy since that time in addressing a number of issues which are of importance to the community. The challenges continue to be great but with persistence we do make some gains. The KZA Band Council wishes to congratulate Albert Dumont on the publication and launch of his book entitled: Of Trees and Their Wisdom Poetry and Short OF TREES Stories. This is a AND THEIR WISDOM wonderful book filled with inspiring poetry and superb short stories. OF TREES AND THEIR WISDOM When the cedar is gone Who then, will speak of our spirituality When the oak is gone Who then, will speak of our strength When the maple is gone Who then, will speak of our generosity When the birch is gone Who then, will speak of our creativity When the pine is gone Who then, will speak of our legends Albert Dumont (Algonquin, Kitigan Zibi) is the proud father of two daughters and the doting grandfather of one grandchild (Young Turtle Woman). He is the writer of four books Councils of Encouragement, With the Wind and Men of Dust, Broad Winged Hawk and Of Trees and Their Wisdom, all of which are based on a healing theme. He is the founder of Turtle Moons Contemplations, a greeting card company which features his artwork and verse. OF TREES AND THEIR WISDOM Poetry and Short Stories By Albert Dumont Messages from Councillors...10 DECEMBER 2009 Poetry and Short Stories Canada & USA $17.95 By Albert Dumont Algonquin, Kitigan Zibi The issue of the two missing girls, Maisy Odjick and Shannon Alexander continues to be on the minds of the Band Council and the community. A vigil which was organized by the family was held on September 6th, 2009 which was the 1 year mark since their disappearance. The family will be putting up a large billboard with the photos of the 2 girls on highway 105 (Near Arthur Smith s original house). We do invite anyone who might have any information in regards to these young women to please communicate such information to the family and/or police. All information could be relevant in regards to this matter. Congratulations to Caitlin Tolley, Rita Cote and Shady Hafez. Caitlin, Rita and Shady were part of the 12,000 individuals that were selected from across Canada to carry the Olympic Torch for the 2010 Vancouver Olympic Games.The Kitigan Zibi community is proud of your accomplishments. Congratulations to Soriya Decontie and Misko McGregor who along with 2 youth from Pikwàkanagàn were selected to represent the Algonquin Nation youth at the Olympic torch activities which took place on Parliament Hill on December 12th, You both made Kitigan Zibi and the Algonquin Nation very proud.

2 Message from Chief Gilbert W. Whiteduck The Community Services Sector s Construction Department undertook to coordinate the construction of some 10 private homes this past summer/fall as well as some 6 Band homes which are now rented to community members. The Construction Department was also involved in the construction of 2 housing extensions and they also undertook a number of necessary house repairs. This was indeed a busy period for construction. The Band Council wishes to sincerely thank all workers who were involved in one way or another in this year s housing construction. We appreciate your continued contributions. The issue of housing has always been a challenge but we are continuing to lobby government for increased funding for all types of housing and housing repairs. The reality nevertheless is that funding is limited for housing at this time and housing funds may actually change in the future. The Band Council has decided at this time to make 5 housing subsidies available for the 2010 season and to construct 2 Band rentals in The selection for the housing subsidies based on the regulations which have been in place for a number of years will be completed during the month of December. We will continue to try to secure funding for additional housing but as mentioned, this is very challenging. The Radon Gas file has moved forward quite rapidly. The individual results of the testing which was carried out was shared with individual homeowners. The homeowners were also provided with the opportunity to meet with the experts who provided the results of the testing. The experts from Health Canada were also on hand to answer questions in regards to the impact of radon gas. The results of the testing indicated that some 182 homes had radon gas levels over the 200 beq limit which was set by Health Canada. The Band Council did secure some initial funding from Indian Affairs to begin the mitigation measures. The Community Services Sector also undertook to work with Central Mortgage and Housing Corporation in regards to the training of the carpenters for the mitigation measures. The mitigation measures have now started. It has been confirmed that the mitigation measures being taken are lowering the levels of radon gas. The projected cost to do all the required work for the 182 homes is projected to be approximately 725,000$. The Band Council is continuing to discuss with Indian Affairs the confirmation of this full amount. The target at this point is to complete some 100 homes by the end of March 2010 and to complete the remainder by August I want to take this time to sincerely thank the Community Services Sector and the Health Centre for its positive and focused collaboration in regards to all of the work around the issue of the radon gas. The issue of the radon gas which had been somewhat dormant for many years was addressed in a planned manner which meant that information was properly communicated and mitigation measures were rolled out in a timely manner. The Wìdòkodàdiwin Strategy- A Strategy for Positive Actions Leading to Positive Changes was adopted by the Band Council on July 24th, This strategy which was the result of the work of an ad-hoc inter-sectorial committee, lays out various activities that the Band Council as well as all Service Sectors will undertake in order to combat the sale and use of illegal drugs as well as the inappropriate over use of alcohol in the community. The success of the strategy over the coming years will be dependent on the involvement and support of the community in regards to actions that will be taken. Additional information in regards to the Strategy is available from the various Sector Directors. The planning and preparing for the major community water and sewer project (10 million dollars) is continuing. The drilling and the testing of the wells at the Gatineau Front are now completed. The results are positive which means that these have been confirmed as meeting the needs as planned. The engineering work in regards to the planned layout for the water and sewer line is well underway and the final work is projected to be completed in January The 2

3 Message from Chief Gilbert W. Whiteduck intent is to bring the water line and sewer pipes up to KZ School. Once the water connections are completed and the entire infrastructure is in place the community would disconnect from the town water system. The sewer pipes will be installed with the water line but the issue of the construction of lagoons will be dependent on the availability of financial resources within the allocated 10 million dollars. The water and sewer project, assuming everything goes as planned, is projected to start in April 2010 and should take between 25 to 30 weeks to complete. This will be a very busy period in the community as the construction time lines as well as budgetary limitations will need to be respected at all times. The reporting requirements for this project will be quite demanding but can be met by the community. The Band Council is pursuing discussions with Indian Affairs in regards to future phases for the water line and in some cases the sewer line. We want to ensure that this work continues and that over the next 5 years most homes in the community would be connected to the community water source. The Band Council is also pursuing discussions with Indian Affairs in regards to the overflow pipe that comes from the town of Maniwaki and crosses several community held lots. This discussion will also eventually be had with representatives of the town of Maniwaki. The present pipe, that was mentioned previously is in need of major repairs. A full study was conducted on this pipe which clearly concludes that it must be repaired. The estimated cost of 7 million dollars is presently under review and various options are being considered. The target for the Band Council is to have a plan and the attached funding approved in order to address this matter by this Spring/ Summer The expert review of the state of the education facilities was completed and a report was submitted to Indian Affairs some months ago. The report presented a few options in regards to the repairs which were required to the different schools. The Kitigan Zibi Kikinamadinan was built some 30 years ago and was in need of immediate upgrading and repairs. The Band Council had several discussions with Indian Affairs in regards to the needed repairs and was able to secure close to 2 million dollars for the repairs. The repair work will be carried out over 2 fiscal years ( and ) with about 1 million dollars to be invested each year. The repairs will allow for the replacement of all doors, windows, heating system, gym floor etc... There will also be some minor repairs to Pakinawatik School and the Life/ Work Paths Building. This will allow for the school facilities to be brought to acceptable standards and will allow for savings in heating costs. The Health and Social Services Sector has been very busy with the issue of the A-H1N1 pandemic flu. The Health Centre has done an extraordinary job in completing a pandemic plan in collaboration with all Sectors and in providing relevant information to the community. The public information meeting which was held with representatives of the Health Centre, Santé Publique and Health Centre staff was most informative. The roll out of the vaccinations was also done in a most effective and efficient manner. The Band Council strongly believes that providing timely information to the community ensures that a panic situation is not created in light of the mixed messages which are often put out in newspapers or television. All of the community Sectors were also very proactive in regards to taking action to limit the spread of the A-H1N1. The Sectors ensured that all staff were informed about preventive measures and of the importance of taking care of themselves if they were hit by the flu. The Education Sector coordinated a community day of action on August 20th, 2009 in order to raise awareness in regards to the under-funding of First Nations education. The action consisted in stopping traffic on highway 105 and speaking with and providing drivers with background information in regards to the underfunding of education programs. The activity 3

4 Message from Chief Gilbert W. Whiteduck took place with the assistance of the Kitigan Zibi Police Sector and allowed for close to 800 leaflets to be handed out to drivers. Although the slowing down of the traffic did irritate some drivers, most of the drivers I spoke with were supportive of our efforts. I did have the opportunity to speak with well over 200 drivers and most wanted more information and this was especially true with young people. The participation of the National Chief, Shaun Atleo, staff and community members on the day of action was appreciated. The National Chief met with community members at the Cultural Education Centre and endorsed the community actions. He supported the meaningful actions of the community to have our voice heard in regards to education. I very much appreciated the National Chief taking time from his busy schedule to come to the community. The National Chief had lived up to the promise he had made to me last July in Calgary, when he promised that he would come to the community. We were actually one of the first communities he came to visit after his election. There is no doubt that education is a cornerstone of our development and the funding provided must be adequate to allow Kitigan Zibi students an equal opportunity. The underfunding of close to 25 % for Band Schools and the threat of significantly modifying the post secondary student support program must be addressed. This issue is being pursued with other First Nations in Quebec and across Canada as all First Nations are impacted in the same manner with the underfunding. The carpentry course which is a collaborative venture of the Kitigan Zibi community and the Western Quebec School Board began in September The program has some 15 community members who are taking the carpentry course which will lead to a diploma (DEP) when the students complete the program. Mr. Allen Brennan is the program instructor who has been with the program since it first started. I would encourage everyone that is in the course to persist in completing the course. The results of the policing survey were circulated to the community. The report provided a snapshot of the views and opinions in regards to policing services in the community. This was followed by a public policing meeting which was held on November 26, Some 80 community members came out for the policing meeting. The Director of policing services provided information and responded to questions that came from community members. There was general agreement by the Director of Policing Services and the members present that regular communications was important and needed to be pursued as a priority issue. The present policing agreement will come to an end on March 31, The future of where and what is going to happen with policing in the future is unknown at this time. This was confirmed at a meeting that the Police Director and I attended in September We learned at that time that the Federal government was reviewing the policing program and was targeting to have new authorities/orientations sometime in The changes will impact all First Nations in Quebec that have police services. I have asked and encouraged the Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador to urgently convene a meeting with the Minister of Public Security for Canada and Quebec so that we can have answers to our numerous questions. These meetings have been requested but nothing has been confirmed to date. I will continue to pursue this issue in order to get clarity in regards to what approach will be taken with policing after The community multi-year funding agreement which was scheduled to end on March 31, 2010 has been extended one year. This was confirmed by BCR which was adopted as per Indian Affairs requirements. This means that the level of funding for will remain stable and that the new funding agreement will be negotiated sometime during the fall of The new funding formulas for all of the Indian Affairs programs administered by the community will only be known sometime in early summer of There is no doubt 4

5 Message from Chief Gilbert W. Whiteduck that there will be substantial changes to how programs are funded as well as the accountability requirements. I am of the opinion that there will be significant funding changes for all First Nation communities. The discussions to be had with Indian Affairs in regards to a new agreement will therefore be most important in order for the community to secure its fair share of limited resources. The Band Council and the Sectors will need to be very well prepared for the discussions/ negotiations with Indian Affairs. The Band Council will need to work closely with the Sectors and keep the community informed as discussions progress. I am further of the opinion that the negotiations should be completed at the latest by December 2010 and it is at that time that a more complete picture will be known in regards to the impact of the anticipated program/funding changes. The Band Council has continued its efforts in regards to having its voice heard in regards to lands and resources. We have been in regular dialogue with representatives of the Ministry of Natural Resources in regards to various activities on the Algonquin ancestral territory. This has included discussions around traplines, Sepaq, Eagle Forest and other issues. The KZA Natural Resources and Wildlife Dept. has been actively involved in the discussions and the follow-up as they have the necessary level of expertise. This expertise has been most helpful for the Band Council as it continues to advocate on a number of fronts. The continued encroachment on our traditional lands is something that we will need to continue to address. We need to continue to engage governments in order to work towards getting our fair share of the natural resources and to work towards trying to ensure that the lands are not destroyed to a point of no return. We all have an interest in taking care of the land to the best of our abilities. The decision to advise the Minister of Natural Resources that KZA would take the full control of Eagle Forest was done after various attempts to find compromise. This was also done because the lands are just outside the reserve territory which makes the Eagle Forest our backyard. The position we took was not done because we thought that the Eagle Forest was part of the reserve at one point. We stated that we were to take management control because the Eagle Forest Corporation, from which we removed ourselves in October 2008, was not transparent and accountable in its activities. We also knew that the Eagle Forest could create new employment opportunities for community members. The issue of the Eagle Forest is a challenging one but we have made progress. There is no doubt that our strong respectful position has ensured that we would be taken seriously. We have gone from being only offered a seat on a newly created corporation to being offered the management of a large part of the Eagle Forest. This remains unacceptable to the Band Council and that is why we are continuing the discussions while making it amply clear that no harvesting or other types of such activities should take place until this matter is settled. We have been clear to the Ministry that we will need to do what we have to do in order to protect our community interests. The Band Council has made every effort to keep the community informed of its continued efforts in regards to the Eagle Forest territory and other related territorial issues. This was done through flyers and Community Band Meetings. Although we recognize that there may be individuals who are not supportive of our efforts, we are convinced from comments that we have received that many more community members do support our efforts to pursue this matter in a respectful but determined manner. There have been many community members who have also shared that it was time to take a positive but strong action in regards to our ancestral lands. This is something we will continue to try and do to the best of our efforts. A special meeting in regards to the Eagle Forest may be held if such is required. This will depend on the state of the discussions in regards to the management of the Eagle Forest territory and/or additional territories. We will be 5

6 Message from Chief Gilbert W. Whiteduck in a better position to decide what steps need to take place once we have received updated information, which should be received within a couple of weeks. The Band Council will be continuing to work on and/or review the issues of the community strategic plan, election code, membership code, Band transfer policy, Band Council regulations, Sector Advisory Councils, financial policy, succession plan for the Sectors and the development of a human resource department. A draft community election code will be sent out and posted on the KZA web site in the coming weeks. This will be accompanied with an explanation and time frame in regards to soliciting community membership input which may lead to a referendum to accept or reject a community election code. The issue of developing a community Membership Code will also be reviewed. The Membership Code which had been developed and submitted to Indian Affairs around 1987 will be examined again as it had been rejected for a variety of reasons. A careful review will need to be made and a possible plan developed. The necessary time must be taken to ensure that the various options are considered and that community members can have input. The Band transfer policy will be reviewed over the coming months and a few options will be brought forward once these are completed. The re-introduction of Service Councils will be initiated in Although this has taken longer than anticipated, the first Service Sector Advisory Council to be established will be the one for Public Security. Information in regards to the Public Security Advisory Council will go out in January The Sector Advisory Councils will be formed during the course of the next 6 months and all should be fully functioning by August The Band Council is also closely reviewing the succession plans for the Sectors that will have a Director who will be leaving over the next 2 years. The intent is to develop a plan so as to ensure that the transition to new senior managers will be done in the most effective manner, so as to ensure that the delivery of community programs is not affected. There will be more information provided in regards to this important human resource issue once the planning review is completed and options have been brought forward. The Band Council is pursuing the issue of the KZA specific land claims. We were informed by Indian Affairs (Headquarters) that over 25 KZA specific land claims that have been presented are presently under review by the Justice Department. A decision in regards to beginning a negotiation process would more than likely be confirmed in late Spring We are projecting that official negotiations could begin during the summer of The duration of these negotiations is loosely projected to be about 2 years. The end result of the negotiations in regards to the KZA specific claims would need to be ratified by the community. The Band Council will need to carefully plan for the negotiations and ensure that a solid team is in place in order to ensure that the best deal for KZA is negotiated. This will be a challenging endeavour but one that we are capable of accomplishing. The Algonquin Anishinabe Tribal Council members, Chiefs and elected representatives are continuing their efforts to get a fair share for the member communities from the Osisko gold mine that is presently in progress of being established in Malartic, Quebec. The Algonquin territorial map was adopted in principle at the Annual General Assembly which was held in Pikogan. This territorial map along with a declaration will form the basis of the position which will be communicated to various levels of government as well as the public in general. I have continued to actively participate in the AFN and AFNQL and AANTC meetings. I do try to raise issues of concern for KZA as well as coming to support other First Nation communities as I deem relevant. I have been able to develop a good working relationship with National Chief Shaun Atleo, Regional Chief Ghislain Picard and Algonquin Grand Chief Lucien Wabanonik. This positive relationship led to the National Chief accepting to come to Kitigan Zibi early in his 6

7 Message from Chief Gilbert W. Whiteduck mandate, and to Grand Chief Lucien Wabanonik and Regional Chief Picard accepting to come to speak to KZA community members at a Community Band meeting. The Kitigan Zibi Band Council had the honour of being invited to come speak with the Kitigan Zibi school high school students on November 27, All members of the Band Council were present for this session which allowed us to present how the Council functions, key files of the Council, funding issues as well as a variety of other issues. What was most impressive for the Council were the questions and comments that were expressed by the students at the session. The comments and questions ranged from community employment issues, the drug situation in the community, the lack of education funding, the future of the post secondary student support program funding, the hot lunch program and what needed to be done to bring it back (the Council was provided with a survey that the students had carried out) and a number of other issues. The students were well prepared and demonstrated their thoughtfulness in their questions. The Band Council was honoured to have been invited by the Kitigan Zibi School but more importantly by the attention the students gave to the discussion which took place which was for the duration of over 1 and a half hours. Migwech to all the Kitigan Zibi students and to the teachers who took the time to prepare the students for the session with the Band Council. Kitigan Zibi School is indeed #1. We look forward to a possible follow-up session in The mandate of the present Band Council will be ending on June 17th, The nomination for the offices of Chief and Councillors has been set for April 3, 2010 with the elections to be held on June 5th, The electoral officer for the upcoming elections will be starting in January 2010 and will be in place for the whole process. The Indian Act election procedures will once again be used for this election. The Band Council has continued to meet on a weekly basis in order to address various issues which impact community members or the community as a whole. The Band Council has also continued to hold monthly Community Band meetings. We further meet with community members on a regular basis in order to share information and listen to what community members want to share. This allows the Band Council the opportunity to receive and consider various options at formal and less formal meetings. As mentioned in the past, the Community Band Meetings are but one forum from which we receive community input. We seek to try to solicit input from all available means but in a reasonable manner and one which is within the required time frames that are often imposed on us. Migwech to all community members who have contributed and who continue to contribute to the development of the community in one way or another. The strengthening of the community will take place if we work together in a collective manner. We must remember that our greatest challenge is not with each other but with various levels of government and agencies that continue to fail to recognize our collective rights on a territory that we have never surrendered, ceded or signed off in a treaty. We must also be mindful that there are continued efforts to assimilate First Nations in a complete and final manner. We must be vigilante but balanced in all that we do as there are many challenging questions but few simple answers. This makes our working together as a community even more important as we cannot fail to secure a better future for the future generations. Best wishes for a healthy 2010 to all Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg community members. We have many challenges facing us as Anishinabe but with a respectful and supportive approach, we can I believe, take on the challenges and forge forward. To move forward we must have a strong degree of solidarity. We owe it to ourselves, to our children, to our grandchildren and to the future generations to pursue our efforts. 7

8 Message from Chief Gilbert W. Whiteduck I want to thank each and every one of you that have taken the time to speak and share your concerns with me. I also want to thank you for your words of encouragement. The words of encouragement which you have shared with me have been the fuel that has allowed me to pursue and deal with difficult situations within and outside the community. Migwech Elders for your continued presence and strength. I want to also thank my wife and family for their unconditional support. There is no doubt that without their support and understanding that I would be unable to pursue my work with the same vigour and resolve. In conclusion, I want to sincerely thank all the members of the Band Council. Kichi migwech to each and everyone one of you for your dedication, honesty and commitment towards our common objective of making Kitigan Zibi a better place for all Kitigan Zibi community members. I have been honoured to have worked with all of you and I do look forward to continuing this work which we have started and are planning to pursue. Let us remain positive and in solidarity. Kichi Migwech Meetings Attended by the Chief Outside the KZA Community- July 1, 2009 to December 31, 2009 DATE LOCATION PURPOSE July 20,21,22,23, 2009 Calgary, Alberta AFN-Annual General Assembly August 6, 2009 Val d Or, Quebec AANTC Chiefs Meeting August 31, 2009 Val d Or, Quebec AANTC Chiefs Meeting September 8, 9, 2009 Quebec, Quebec AFNQL Chiefs Meeting September 16, 2009 Ottawa, Ontario Presentation Ottawa University September 22, 23, 2009 Quebec, Quebec AFNQL Policing Summit October 4, 5, 2009 Ottawa, Ontario NWAC Vigil/ Amnesty Int. Workshop October 14, 2009 Val d Or, Quebec AANTC Chiefs Meeting October 20,21, 2009 Pikogan, Quebec AANTC- Annual General Assembly October 22, 2009 Montreal, Quebec FNHRDCQ Meeting October 29, 2009 Ottawa, Ontario National Capital Commission November 3,4, 2009 Montreal, Quebec AFNQL Chiefs Meeting November 5, 2009 Montreal, Quebec FNEC Chiefs Meeting (Education) November 30, 2009 Ottawa, Ontario National Capital Commission December 3, 2009 Gatineau, Quebec Indian Affairs ( Specific Claims) December 7, 8, 9, 10, 2009 Ottawa, Ontario AFN- Confederacy Meeting Acronyms: AFN Assembly of First Nations AANTC Algonquin Anishinabeg Nation Tribal Council AFNQL Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador NWAC Native Women s Association of Canada FNHRDCQ First Nations Human Resources Commission of Quebec 8

9 Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg Band Council Resolutions June 2009 to November 2009 DATE BCR NO. PURPOSE June 26, Sovereignty Affirmation Process June 26, NADAP Salary increases July 10, CFS-FNFP support re: KZA Integrated Resource Management Plan July 17, Special Event Permit July 17, Special Event Permit July 24, Loan Guarantee Land Return July 17, Allocation of 2 housing extensions July 24, Adoption of Widokodadiwin Drug Strategy July 24, Public disclosure of KZA consolidated financial statements July 30, Cancelled July 30, Cancelled July 30, Re: Old Burial Ground July 30, Authorization for Chief Whiteduck to sign audit letters regarding financial audit July 30, Amendment of certain sections of HR Policy July 30, INAC permit for Home Hardware under new ownership August 7, Representation at Native Benefit Plan Assembly August 18, Representation at FNQLHSSC Annual General Assembly August 28, Loan Guarantee Return of land August 28, Membership transfer to another First Nation September 11, Loan Guarantee Return of land September 25, Cancelled September 25, Sale of private land to KZA August 18, Severance for Seasonal Employees September 26, KZA request to be full participant in INAC post secondary program review September 25, Special Event Permit September 25, Special Event Permit October 16, Access to information from DIAND AND LAC re: land claims October 16, Four projects submitted to INAC October 16, Representation on Wanaki Board of Directors October 30, Loan Guarantee Return of land October 30, Permit for new business October 30, Posting of Electoral Officer position November 6, Loan Guarantee Return of land November 13, Cancelled November 13, Special Event Permit November 13, Representation at Quebec Aboriginal Tourism Corporation table November 20, Lease agreement with new business November 20, Naming of individuals to follow-up dialogue committee November 20, Acceptance of funds from INAC re: Family/Child prevention services November 27, CEDO Loan November 27, Request of extension of present DFNFA 9

10 It was a nice experience for me to serve as Council Member for the last two years. There were nice times and also hard times. Attending meetings with government officials was very discouraging at times because it seemed like you were being ignored or that you were wasting your time with them. This is the game that is being used by them. We have no respect by them what so ever! There were some issues that I would have liked to see happen in our community, for the better, but it did not happen. It would seem that I did not get the support in order to achieve these issues such as the importance of our Native Language as well as the Elders Circle. As a Councilor, you are always limited as to what you can do although you wish to do more. As Chief or Council Member, if you do not get the full support by the Community Band Members, you cannot achieve your wishes. As for me, the past two years have been challenging as position of Council Member. I did say that when I ran for Council that it would be a one-time deal. The Message from Rene Commando, Councillor Housing Repairs, Infrastructure, Forestry & Environment Portfolios end of my mandate is now coming to an end, so I would like to thank all the Community Members that have supported me. I deeply appreciate this. I would also like to add that as you all know, politics is a dirty game when it comes to dealing with the governments. Unfortunately, we as Natives have to deal with it whether we like it or not. This is how it has been since day one up to the present time. We always get the dirty end of the stick. No common sense, by them. Only greediness, with no respect. I believe that to achieve the challenges that we face on a day to-day basis, we have to change our ways of doing things for the better. Our Creator gave each person common sense, we must work together in a sensible, respectful manner, at all times. It would be much easier, better and important if we did so. Things would be better throughout the world if we only did so! This is my personal point of view as I see it. Migwetch Kwey, Yet another year has passed! There are still many challenges ahead along with many successes and achievements. I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge, and to thank all the community members and the service sectors for making these achievements possible. These achievements include graduations, volunteer work, political gains, and spiritual.. Without these positive actions, we could not move forward in a harmonious, cohesive fashion, especially in these uncertain, trying times. Message from Steve (Bear) Tenasco, Councillor Ancestral Lands, Resources (Specific and Comprehensive Land Claims), Algonquin Language and Culture Portfolios 10 I would like to extend my thoughts and prayers to the missing girls and their families, as well to all those who have lost a loved one. In closing, I would like to thank the chief and fellow council members for their leadership and dedication. Have a safe and happy holiday season! Meegwetch

11 Another six (6) months has quickly passed us by and the holidays are already upon us. In regards to my portfolios, I have remained informed and updated to the best of my ability as it relates to the designated areas of Employment and Training, Human Resources and Youth issues. In regards to my Employment and Training portfolio, I have remained in regular contact with the Employment/Training Officer to remain informed and updated in regards to program/ services delivery. I am very happy to see that the carpentry training program was launched this fall along with one of our community members delivering the program. I have also followed all new developments via the First Nation Human Resources Development Commission of Quebec (FNHRDCQ) as it relates to the renewal of the subsequent agreement which funds our employment and training program. I also had the opportunity to attend the last regional meeting of the FNHRDCQ. In regards to my Human Resources portfolio, over the last six (6) months the Council has reviewed the report which was conducted early in the fiscal year on the overall administrative structure of the Band. The Council approved some recommendations from the Service Directors on what elements of this report should be implemented. In the upcoming months, these approved recommendations will be implemented. Changes in our structure were only considered to help strengthen the current administrative system. In regards to the Youth portfolio which touches upon all Sectors, I have tried to remain updated on new programs that affect youth. I, as well as the Council certainly appreciated the most recent invite in November from the High School students at KZ School. At this meeting the Council as a whole presented and answered questions from the Youth. I wish to state that this first meeting of the Council with the Youth is definitely something that should be done regularly. I definitely appreciated all the questions that were asked by the youth that were present. I think it s so encouraging to see youth who are interested in the work that the Council is doing and wondering Message from Kristy Whiteduck, Councillor Employment and Training, Human Resources and Youth Portfolios 11 what they can do to help. I encourage all youth who have any questions to pick up the phone or any Council member anytime to ask the questions they want and deserve answers to. Over the last six (6) months the Council has had to deal with many different issues that affect our community. Sometimes as a new Council member some of these issues are hard to grasp, especially as it relates to our territory and making a stand for what we believe in. Yet I think that it s essential as youth to be informed and be part of the overall community decision to move towards an action to protect our rights as Anishinabe people. I think that as a community we need to be reminded of the importance and impact of collaborative work and the importance of supporting one another, as it s all for the benefit of OUR community of Kitigan Zibi. I think it s always good for community members to question the actions, decisions and recommendations that are put forward by the Council but at the same time it is important to accept the fact that we can t just talk about defending our rights, we also have to take actions. I would like to mention that our next election process will already be underway in the upcoming months with nominations taking place in April. I would like to personally encourage all young people who may be interested in running for Council to do so. It s an excellent learning experience and it s essential that young voices continue to be part of our Band Council. It takes a lot of dedication and availability to be part of our Band Council, but in the end it is worth it if it helps make our community of Kitigan Zibi a better place for ourselves and our future generations. As always, I remain available to any KZA member who may wish to talk to me about issues that affect them. You may call or drop by my house anytime, or if you wish you can me at kwhiteduck@hotmail.com and I will do my best to address your issue. I wish you and your families a safe and happy holiday! Kichi Migwech

12 As my two-year mandate comes to an end, I reflect back as to how quickly time has gone by. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to first of all having had the opportunity to meet my fellow Community Members, some of you for the first time. Migwetch if I was able to assist you in any way. During my mandate as one of your Council Members, I have had the opportunity of experiencing life as a Kitigan Zibi Council Member. I must say that it has been very challenging at times but most of all, very rewarding for me. I am very grateful for having gained knowledge regarding issues that we as Anishnabe people face when dealing with people outside of our circle, mainly Government Officials. One lesson that I have learned during the past two years is that, as one individual, you do not make a difference, but, collectively as a whole community, we can make all the difference in the world in obtaining our goals together. I sincerely wish that each and every one of you will understand this as well. Since our last Council Article, I have had the opportunity to attend several meetings with and on behalf of Chief Whiteduck. I have also met with many community members regarding various issues. I have participated in the majority of our Council Meetings as well at our Community Band Meetings. I recently had the opportunity to take part in a first (mock) Band Council Meeting with the Youth at Kitigan Zibi School. This was a very unique and rewarding opportunity. Migwetch to the people that organized this event. I would like to say Migwetch to Chief, Gilbert W. Whiteduck for having shared his knowledge, wisdom and his compassion for his fellow community members. So very rarely will Message from Marlene Carle, Councillor Health & Social Services Portfolio you find a person such as Chief Whiteduck that is willing to fight on issues that he believes in and that will support as well as improve the quality of life for his fellow community members. It has been a pleasure Chef to be part of your Council! The learning process has been a very rewarding one for me. Best wishes to you Chef in your future endeavors! I am also very grateful to have had the opportunity to work with and debate with my fellow Council Members, Darhlene Twenish, Wayne Odjick, Kristy Whiteduck, Steve Tenasco and Rene Commando as well. Best wishes to all of you! As Portfolio holder for Health & Social Services, I am also very grateful to have had the opportunity to meet with and dialogue with Mr. Lionel Whiteduck as well as Ms. Robin Decontie. Kitchi Migwetch for having put up with my sometimes so unexpected calls or visits. It has been a pleasure working with you. Best wishes to you both! In closing, I would like to take this opportunity to say Migwetch to all the community members that have supported me throughout my mandate as one of your Council Members. Best wishes to the next Chief and Council. As the Christmas holidays approach, I would like to take this opportunity to wish each and every one of you a very Happy, Healthy & Safe Holiday! Migwetch 12

13 My, my, how time flies. It seems like yesterday when I was elected as one of the councillors representing Kitigan Zibi. Here I am a year and a half later. The past year and a half has definitely been full of emotions from learning, trauma, acceptance and moving on. During this time, I have been working alongside the police services sector to try and address some issues relating to police services in the Kitigan Zibi community. In early spring, a community survey was done on police services in Kitigan Zibi. The objective of the survey was to get community members input. As a result of this survey, the community has expressed several areas of concern with regards to policing services. The first Annual Meeting on Public Security was held on November 26, Hopefully this meeting has responded to some of those concerns. It is important that these annual meetings continue in the future so that community members and policing services can work together towards the improvement of policing services in Kitigan Zibi. I ve done some work with policing services with regards to the legal/illegal drug issue. I am one of those people who know first hand how hard it is to deal with this issue, especially when it is staring at you in the face. We must stay strong Message from Darlene Twenish, Councillor Policing and Youth Portfolios and united on this issue in order to conquer it. This is an epidemic that exists in every community, town or city and it does not discriminate. Council mandated KZHSS services who sought the assistance of the other community sectors to come up with a plan to confront the legal/ illegal drugs issue in the community. All sectors worked together to create the Widokodadiwan Strategy which council endorsed. Hopefully this strategy along with the continued vigilance of the community will help deter the use of illegal drugs amongst our youth. Last spring I along with a few other community members initiated the start of weekly Narcotics Anonymous meetings. These meetings are held Monday and Thursday evenings from 7:30 9:00 for those of you who may be interested. I d like to say that it is most certainly an honour and a pleasure to work with my fellow Councillors and Chief Whiteduck. Chief and Council work hard to deal with many challenging day to day issues facing us as a nation, as a people. I d like to thank the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg for your continued support. In closing I d like to wish everyone a very safe, happy and prosperous New Year. HAPPY HOLIDAYS EVERYONE!!! Chief and Council Attendance at Duly Convened Band Council Meetings The Band Council held a total of 75 Band Council Meetings for the period beginning June 22, 2008 and ending December 4th, 2009 (Approx. 18 months). The attendance of Chief and Council members were as follows: Name Attendance at Council Meetings Chief Gilbert W. Whiteduck 75 out of 75 meetings Councillor Marlene Carle 70 out of 75 meetings Councillor Darhlene Twenish 68 out of 75 meetings Councillor Rene Commando 69 out of 75 meetings Councillor Wayne Odjick 68 out of 75 meetings Councillor Stephen Tenasco 45 out of 75 meetings Councillor Kristy Whiteduck 72 out of 75 meetings 13

14 Message from Wayne Odjick, Councillor Education and support to inter-governmental affairs Portfolios Kwey Kakina, I would like to take this opportunity to address a seasonal message to our membership who reside both on and off our community. Once again, the past year has shown that even though our community may face many challenges, our collective efforts to work together and to overcome differences has once again shown the strength of our people to address creative and positive alternatives to resolve issues. As the hectic pace of the business world begins to wind down, the holiday season provides somewhat of an opportunity to reflect and to readjust our views and the shortcomings we may have in our daily lives. Being the council member responsible for the education portfolio, I congratulate all the young people who strive to persue their goals no matter how difficult it may be at times. I believe and I encourage that our apporach in the coming new year should be one to focus collective community energies of realizing our hope to provide the continual well-being in the growth of our community and the nation at large. In order to this we must secure the tools to provide a well balanced future and one of the most important tools to do this is to ensure the education of our young people. With this in mind, let us encourage our youth by demonstrating that we are there to protect the significance of our ancestral heritage, the values and principles that forged the templates of traditional integrity that has rooted the character of Anishinabeg identity and community life in our own territory. I take this opportunity to wish everyone a very happy holiday season and keep safe to meet your relatives and love ones as you travel the roads of our country. Kichi Migwech Creation of the Kitigan Zibi Reserve Prepared by Chris Printup and Nick Ottawa The First Settlers and the Timber Trade In the years leading up to the establishment of the River Desert Indian Reserve the non-native settlers were beginning to make inroads into our territory. Philemon Wright was an American from Massachusetts who wanted to build a model community based upon hard work and agriculture. He chose the land at the mouth of the Gatineau on the Ottawa River to build his new village and arrived here in the spring of 1800 with several families to begin a new community far from the corrupting influences of civilization. He immediately encountered a community of Algonquin-Nippissing under the leadership of Constant Penancy (an Algonquin war chief) who were making maple sugar in the area that spring. Constant Penancy and his band were living on his hunting grounds on the Rideau River just across the Ottawa River from the mouth of the Gatineau. The land at that location was not very good for farming and the Indians were amused at the efforts of Mr. Wright as he tried to plow the clay and rocky soil. They were also concerned about how these strangers came to be there in our territory. Wright explained that he had gotten permission from Quebec and from Sir John Johnson, the Superintendant of Indian Affairs that he could build a settlement in that spot. 14

15 To resolve these issues a private treaty was made between Philemon Wright and the Algonquin and they began to trade goods and tools with each other. There were very few people in the area in those times and it was easier for all if they got along, shared and supported each other. After several years of failing crops and increasing losses, Wright tried his hand at logging and he was the first to float rafts of timber down to Quebec City for export. His objectives quickly changed from a religious settlement to timber extraction and the commercial marketing of saw-logs to support England s war efforts against Napoleon Bonaparte, France and the United States. The War of 1812 added to the need for more and more timber for the British Royal Navy. Meanwhile our war chiefs, Constant Penancy, Amable Chevalier, Laurent Kijekeejik, Michel Pasindawatch, Francois Otjik and the other Algonquin/Nippissing warriors were committed to the War of 1812, fighting on the side of the British against the Americans. This left our territories open for persons to begin taking advantage of the vast timber resources of our land. The Gatineau Timber Barons such as Gilmour, Hall, Hamilton, Wright and Low all played a role in clearing our lands of the plentiful stands of Oak, White and Red Pine. We have recently submitted a claim against Canada for breach of trust and compensation regarding these issues. Constant Penancy eventually received a military pension and lived to be at least 100 years old. He passed away in the late 1800 s at his home in Burnstown by the rapids on the Madawaska River near what is now Calabogie, Ontario. The Land Base for the KZA Reserve In 1847, Chief Antoine Pakinawatik asked to have his hunting grounds at the mouth of the River du Desert set aside as an Indian reservation. Other Algonquins were living in the area at that time, for example there was Michel Kookoo who lived on l ile Roy in the Gatineau just north of the Desert River. The Hudson Bay Post was just across the Gatineau from his cabin and eventually the island he lived on came to be used as a farm to support Creation of the Kitigan Zibi Reserve Prepared by Chris Printup and Nick Ottawa 15 the trading post. In May of 1843, an Algonquin named Pierre Tekwanese was baptized in a small chapel which eventually became the Church of the Assumption. In 1851 legislation was passed to enable the government to set aside lands in Lower Canada for Indian reserves and in 1853 an Order-in-Council set aside 45,750 acres of land on the River Desert as a reserve for the Algonquin, Tête de Boules and Nippissing. Prior to this, efforts had been made towards moving the Algonquin and Nippissing out of the Ottawa River territory and over to Manitoulin Island for settlement. This idea was resisted and another suggestion to settle the bands in the area of Temiscaming was also rejected. In 1851 another petition was forwarded to the House of Commons from 300 to 400 families of Algonquin/Nipissings from the Lake of Two Mountains specifying their preference for lands within their traditional territory in the Ottawa River watershed. In the years leading up to the creation of the River Desert Indian Reserve there had been a number of surveys and maps of the area. These initial surveys and maps were done by the companies

16 of the timber industry and for the purposes of setting out timber berths and licenses to regulate and support the logging activities in the area. In October, 1848 Chief Antoine Pakinawatik and 23 other Indians sent a petition requesting a tract of land: located on the Gatineau River about 27 leagues from Bytown. It is bounded on the east by the Gatineau River, on the north by the Riviére du Désert, on the west by the Riviéres d Aigle, the little Kindovisipi River, - and Lake Chersakamik, on the south by a straight line from the southernmost point of this little lake to the southernmost tip of the island in the mouth of the outlet of Lac Rond. The earliest survey of the area was done in 1850 by John Newman and his map shows the reserve line in the west going from a point just west of the northern portion of Cedar Lake and then due north to the Eagle River to a point just south of Turtle Creek. This is how the reserve is shown on the maps we have today, except for the loss of the land that now makes up the City of Maniwaki. The City of Maniwaki takes up about 800 acres of land and when we subtract that from the total amount of land we were supposed to get this comes to Creation of the Kitigan Zibi Reserve Prepared by Chris Printup and Nick Ottawa Dates For Future Community Band Meetings v Saturday January 30, 2010 The duration of community band v Saturday February 27, 2010 meetings will be for 2.5 hours. v Saturday March 27, 2010 Special community band meetings may be convened by Band Council if such meetings are required. 1, Paganakomin Mikan P.O. Box 309 Maniwaki, Quebec J9E 3C9 Phone: (819) Toll free: Fax: (819) roughly 44,950 acres that our land base would be if the original number of acres were allotted to us. However, the information we have indicates that the reserve land base is now roughly 45, acres in size. Thus, the land we actually got was some 600 acres more than set out in the Order- In-Council. The landbase of the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg reserve is actually larger than the grant in Although Chief Pakinawatik had requested more land than we now have; his request would have seen our southern boundary measured from the southern end of Big Cedar, the western edge of the reserve would have been only up to the creek that runs from Blue Sea Lake to the Eagle River. The north-western limit of the reserve near the Turtle Creek is the correct legal limit. But, the real truth is that all of these lands are ours: we hold un-extinguished title to these lands. It falls to us to protect our lands, our forests and rivers. We cannot and should not trust others to shoulder the responsibility for these things. The Eagle Forest is our heritage and our responsibility. The government of Quebec wants to allow forestry companies to manage it, and we know they will not protect it. It is up to us to take responsible action to safeguard our rights and our heritage. Contact Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg Chief s gwhiteduck@hotmail.com 16