Community Mobilization Kit

Community Mobilization Kit

Table of Contents Preface... 1 Part 1... 5 1. Fight against Poverty Initiative of the First Nations... 7 1.1. Background Information... 7 Part 2... 9 2. Poverty among First Nations: a Brief Outline... 11 2.1. Social and Economic Conditions... 12 2.2. Community Well-Being (CWB) Index... 13 2.3. Comparisons between Aboriginal Peoples and the Canadian Population... 14 2.4. Food Insecurity... 15 2.5. First Nations Housing Crisis... 15 2.6. Recognized Rights and Rights to be Recognized... 17 Part 3... 19 3. Community Development and Mobilization... 21 3.1. Philosophy... 21 3.2. Vision: Ecosystem Approach... 22 3.3. Community Development... 25 3.4. Setting up a Mobilization, Consultation and Action Committee to Fight Poverty... 33 Conclusion... 39 Bibliography... 41 List of Appendices... 47 Appendix I: Technical and Financial Tools to Develop Projects... 48 Appendix II: Your Community s Socio-economic Profile... 49 Appendix III: Project Development Template... 51 United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples... 57 1

Preface In developing a new method of response and community involvement, it is imperative that we, both the First Nations and government, recognize that economic, social and educational development are one and the same and thus must be dealt with as a total approach, rather than separately. Developing programs in segments and isolating their various parts inhibits if not precludes effective and concerted utilization of all resources required to support economic and social development as well as educational advancement. Excerpt from the Wahbung : Our tomorrows declaration, 1971 From: The State of the First Nation Economy and the Struggle to Make Poverty History, Assembly of First Nations, 2009, p. 16. Almost forty years have passed since this declaration was published, and it is clear that is has remained current. Today, we must recognize the need to work together towards the well-being of the communities. It is imperative that we drop the silo approach and create a holistic development model which addresses the root of the problems that First Nations communities are facing. An individual alone cannot have the answers to all the problems that afflict the communities. The challenge that we are facing partly depends on how we are organized. More than ever, we must join forces, pool our resources and recognize our respective skills if we hope to change the course of history. If we achieve that objective, we will achieve the change we so strongly desire. The fight against poverty within the communities involves raising awareness among all relevant stakeholders, mobilizing the organizations, developing projects, and most importantly, empowering individuals who live in poverty. Past experiences have shown us that isolated actions do not deliver the desired results. We must therefore reexamine our way of doing things and develop mechanisms that foster mobilization, collaboration, and the development of collective actions. To that effect, we favour the ecosystem approach. The advantage of the ecosystem approach is that individuals are involved in the decisions that affect them. The fight against poverty goes involves more than the income security program. Governments, sectors such as education, economic development, housing and infrastructure, public safety, health and social services, all play significant roles in reducing the depth of poverty within the communities. Interventions, which would be coordinated by all stakeholders concerned about the problem, represent the best way to provide individuals with the proper tools to contribute to the social and economic development of their communities. Guiding individuals and families living in poverty through development projects is giving a glimmer of hope back to those who are in 1

need of such hope. Getting organized collectively is demonstrating the determination and willingness to end those conditions which inevitably remind us of the Third World. Many Aboriginal communities around the world have successfully overcome poverty by inventing and developing initiatives based on their needs. Still today, local development serves as a powerful tool to break the cycle of dependency and marginalization. A healthy community cannot be built on social exclusion, poverty and discrimination. Of course, this will not happen overnight. Investments will be required for several years. Initiatives and projects which will be put forward will need constant support. There will certainly be challenges and obstacles. The key to success will depend on our ability to stay the course, ensure the continuity of initiatives intended for the development of members, for as long as necessary. The changes and progress that we will observe will no doubt be the result of our determination and willingness to support the development of our community members. Poverty among First Nations is far from being a new phenomenon. We must take a brief look back in time to grasp the depth of this phenomenon among Aboriginal peoples and understand its causes. According to an old saying, if you want to know where you re going, you must know where you re coming from. The adoption of the Act to Encourage Gradual Civilization of Indian Tribes in 1857, and later the Act Respecting the Civilization and Enfranchisement of Indians in 1859 by the colonial administration were decisive moments in the history of Aboriginal peoples in Canada. Adopting those Acts put an end, once and for all, to a relationship, which until then, was based on alliances, treaties and trade. First Nations, which were precious allies, became a nuisance the Indian problem and the solution to this problem was assimilation. This was hastened by the steady decline of the fur trade and its strategic significance within the economy. First Nations not only faced the fur trade decline, but were also increasingly subjected to economic pressure as a result of the competition given by the settlers of European descent, not to mention the settlers increasing appetite for First Nations lands, including lands which were reserved for them following the adoption of the Royal Proclamation of 1763. In 1867, modern Canada was founded with the adoption of the British North America Act (BNAA). The government did not consult with First Nations, a sign that times had changed. In 1876, the federal government adopted the Indian Act, which was supposed to protect them from pioneer settlements practiced by European descendants. The number of reserves multiplied and the sedentation process continued to gain momentum. The Métis upraising as well as that of certain western First Nations was futile, and the federal government and elites which made up the government showed intransigence by failing to honour the promises made by their predecessors. The Indian issue became the Indian problem. Our objective is to continue until there is not a single Indian, there is no Indian question nor Indian Department, that is the whole object of this Bill. 2

Duncan Campbell Scott, Superintendent of Indian Affairs from 1913 to 1932- (regarding the Bill to amend the Indian Act in 1920). The federal government has amended the Indian Act many times since the 1880 s. Many of these amendments showed that the government wanted to assimilate First Nations and exclude them from politics and ensure that they become socio-economically marginalized. Those policies ended in failure. The objective which consisted in assimilating First Nations, eliminating their cultures and traditions, was never achieved. Today, many First Nations members continue to speak their first language and are proud of their identity. This is very much to their credit and it is worth pointing out. However, those policies led First Nations into poverty and that poverty takes on several dimensions. Having failed to assimilate First Nations people, the governments ensured that they became socio-economically marginalized. The poverty that we see in far too many communities today is simply the result of systemic discrimination. The 20 th century is marked by the federal government s desire to assimilate Aboriginal people. It is also during that period that the movement to defend Aboriginal peoples rights was created. As Michel Foucault once said, There is no domination without resistance. We can only hope that during the 21 st century, the relationship between the governments and Aboriginal people will be renewed and that extreme poverty, created by this system, will be resolved as a result of concrete actions and the adoption of a sustainable development model. This mobilization kit is a tool, like many others, to fight poverty and social exclusion. It is a modest contribution to those already developed by First Nations communities and organizations. Patrick Bacon, Fight Against Poverty Initiative of the First Nations 3

Part 1

1. Fight against Poverty Initiative of the First Nations 1.1. Background Information In 2002, the National Assembly of Quebec adopted a law to fight poverty - an Act to Combat Poverty and Social Exclusion, R.S.Q. C.L-7.This Act led to the 1st Government action plan to combat poverty and exclusion. This action plan included a set of measures designed to fight poverty within the province of Quebec. With the Act and measures included in its action plan, the government s objective is to ensure that the Quebec nation with have the lowest number of individuals living in poverty among industrialized countries from now until 2013. This objective cannot be achieved without taking into consideration the poverty that afflicts far too many Aboriginal communities, which are listed among those most likely to experience poverty or social exclusion in Quebec, both within and outside the communities. In addition to material and social poverty, there is racism and discrimination. In Chapter 2, Section 12, Paragraph 5 of the Act, the government hopes to discuss adapting those actions to the specific needs of Aboriginal nations with their representatives. The main principles mentioned in the Act are the following: Foster respect for and protection of the dignity of individuals living in poverty and fight prejudices in their regard; Improve the economic and social situation for individuals and families living in poverty and who are socially excluded; Reduce the inequalities that may be detrimental to social cohesion; Encourage persons and families living in poverty to take part in community life and social development; Develop and reinforce the sense of solidarity throughout the province of Quebec so that its society as a whole may fight against poverty and social exclusion. The Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador (AFNQL) and the Ministère de l Emploi et de la Solidarité sociale (MESS) signed an agreement in December 2005. The purpose of that agreement was to develop and implement, in collaboration with First Nations communities and in a manner that respects their culture, means to fight against poverty and social exclusion. 7

Thereafter, the Social Development Office of the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Health and Social Services Commission (FNQLHSSC) was given the responsibility to develop an action plan that is adapted to First Nations. Over the past years, the FNQLHSSC has developed a series of tools to fight against poverty. Below are the main tools that we have developed or took part in developing for the First Nations: Collaborative agreement with the MESS and creation of a fund: the Quebec Fund for Social Initiatives Aboriginal component New Pathways: Foundation for the Future of First Nations Collective for a Poverty-free Quebec Breakfast Club of Quebec and Canada Community Mobilization Project Forum on Food Insecurity First Nations Consultations for the 2 nd Government Action Plan to Combat Poverty and Social Exclusion AFN s Initiatives This kit is above all else a guide to help the communities mobilize and acquire a local strategy to fight poverty and social exclusion. It serves mainly as a reference document designed to provide community members with additional tools rather than a recipe for which every step must be followed. It is a tool that the communities may use to work, but most importantly, a tool that they may adapt to their specific needs. The kit is made up of a short analysis designed to raise public awareness about poverty among First Nations. Bibliographical references have been added to the kit. Various poverty aspects among Aboriginal people will be addressed in these documents. The kit also contains a social development and mobilization guide using a community development approach. A technical and financial resource guide is also available. 8

Part 2

2. Poverty among First Nations: a Brief Outline 1 First Nations poverty is the greatest social injustice issue in Canada today. National Chief Phil Fontaine. Housing and public services are so inadequate in Aboriginal communities that they are threatening the health and well-being of their residents. By all measures, they fall below standards that prevail elsewhere in Canada. They are visible evidence of the poverty and marginalization experienced disproportionately by Aboriginal people. Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples, 1996, Vol. 3, p. 413. Many First Nations are facing a housing crisis. Unless action is taken quickly, the already unacceptable housing conditions are only going to get worse, with the population growth on reserves which is twice as high as the Canadian average - Sheila Fraser, Auditor General of Canada (2003 Report). Studies have linked the difficulties faced by many Aboriginal families to historical experiences and poor socio-economic conditions. The Royal Commission Report on Aboriginal Peoples linked the residential school system to the disruption of Aboriginal families. Data from the 2003 Canadian Incidence Study of Reported Child Abuse and Neglect link poverty, inadequate housing, and caregiver substance misuse on many reserves to the higher substantiated incidence of child neglect occurring on reserves [ ] - Sheila Fraser, Auditor General of Canada (2008 Report). The phenomenon of endemic poverty among First Nations is widely recognized despite the fact that it remains under-documented because of its depth. Even then, the situation must be looked at carefully considering that the communities are not socioeconomically homogeneous. First Nations economy varies from one community to another and could partly explain the socio-economic inequalities that exist between the nations and various communities. Some communities benefit from economic agreements with businesses while other communities do not; some communities depend on an industry sector, while others have a more diverse economy. In short, the First Nations socio-economic situation varies from one community to another. We must therefore be careful and not generalize about poverty and the socio-economic conditions which prevail among First Nations, even though the majority of the communities are facing socio-economic difficulties. Those situations and specific needs require specific interventions which are adapted to the particular needs of the communities. However, there are certain poverty aspects among First Nations that we know very little about, such as the number of First Nation individuals who live below the 1 The text in the second part comes from the memoir on homelessness written by Patrick Bacon, FNQLHSSC. 11

low income cut-off. The fact that statistics, analyses, and research are completed by Statistics Canada partly explains this situation. In addition, the Centre d Études sur la pauvreté et l exclusion of the Ministère de l Emploi et de la solidarité sociale du Québec has until now shown very little interest in studying the phenomenon of poverty among First Nations. As regards research, these limitations are not a major obstacle to measuring the phenomenon of poverty among First Nations, considering that there are other indicators that enable us to depict such poverty. Just to name a few examples, housing, education, and social assistance dependency show us that First Nations living conditions are below those of the non-aboriginal population. Furthermore, we will eventually be able to take research a little further, in line with the principles of ownership, control, access, and possession (OCAP). These data and research will eventually help fight poverty and social exclusion, as they will provide a better understanding of the phenomenon and the interactions between the various aspects of poverty and social problems which afflict far too many communities. Meanwhile, we must take action and deal with this important issue. Outlined below is what we know about poverty among Quebec s First Nations. 2.1. Social and Economic Conditions Among the most industrialized countries, Canada and Quebec are considered to be nations with excellent living conditions. Health and social services, education, housing support programs, a social protection plan, are all measures taken by the governments to support citizens in their development. First Nations are experiencing an entirely different reality. While Canada ranks 8th in the United Nation s human development index, Canada s First Nations rank 78 th (2003). Some First Nation communities living conditions resemble those of third world countries: overcrowded and substandard housing, water problems, rundown schools, underemployment, etc. A report prepared by the Canadian Council on Social Development in 2000 revealed that 55.6% of Aboriginal people in Canada living off-reserve were living below the line of poverty. In Montreal, more than 50% of Aboriginal people are living below the line of poverty (CCSD, 2008, p. 15-16). While we are not aware of the number of people who live below the low income cut-off in Quebec s First Nations communities no study on that subject has been conducted we do know however that poverty is widespread and in some places, there is even endemic poverty. In fact, the social assistance dependency rate, the unemployment rate, as well the average income of the Aboriginal population in Quebec, show that the social and economic conditions of First Nations are well below those of the rest of Quebec s population. For example, in some communities, the social assistance dependency rate nears 50% (INAC, 2008). We are well aware that social assistance income does not allow anyone to live above the line of poverty. 12

The poverty phenomenon among Aboriginal people, as is the case with non-aboriginal communities, affects women in particular. In this regard, the situation of single mothers is a cause for concern 2. According to Statistics Canada s data, the average income for Aboriginal women was $13,000 while for non-aboriginal women, the average income was $19,350 (Khosla, p.2). Table 1: Income and Social Assistance of Aboriginal People in Quebec Employment Income (Average) Aboriginal Population in Quebec Quebec Population $21,231 $29,385 Total Income (Average) $22,332 $33,117 Social Assistance Dependency 28% 7.4% Unemployment Rate 20% 6.9% Source : FNQLHSSC, First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Regional Longitudinal Health Survey, 2006; Observatoire de l Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Portrait de la pauvreté et des inégalités (Portrait of Poverty and Inequalities, January, 2007. 2.2. Community Well-Being (CWB) Index The Community Well-Being (CWB) Index was developed by two researchers from Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC): McHardy and O Sullivan (2004). The CWB Index was developed to measure the economic and social well-being of Aboriginal communities in Canada (Cooke, 2005, p.1). The CWB is a composite index which includes four dimensions of the well-being of Aboriginal communities. It combines elements of the HDI, which was applied at a national and provincial level by Beavon and colleagues (Beavon and Cooke, 2003) and elements of community-level analysis by Armstrong (2001). The dimensions of well-being included in the CWB are education, labour force participation and employment, income, and housing. (Cooke, 2005, p.6). Methodologically, the CWB Index includes: Two indicators for education, that is, literacy level and educational level (high school education or higher); Two measures relating to labour force participation and paid employment; 2 In 1996, 33% of Aboriginal women across Canada were single parents. 13

The average annual income as quotient of the aggregate income of all individuals of ages 15 and over who have declared an income; Two indicators relating to housing, that is, the quantity and quality of housing. The four CWB Index components (education, labour force participation, income and housing) are then combined, each one having the same level of weighting. The scale is standardized; its cap is set at one and its threshold level at zero. However, the CWB Index has limitations when comparing Aboriginal to non-aboriginal people: The authors of the CWB recognize that the index focuses mainly on mainstream socio-economic aspects of well-being and do not take into account the differences in values and cultures between Aboriginal and non-aboriginal communities, or other aspects, such as physical or psychological health (Cooke, 2005, p. 14). The First Nations state of health, which is marked by insecurity, adds to the challenge that we face. Even then, the First Nations health conditions require significant investments. If we wish to address those issues, it is all the more important that we effectively fight poverty considering that it is one of the main social determinants of health. 2.3. Comparisons between Aboriginal Peoples and the Canadian Population Indian and Northern Affairs Canada used the CWB Index to draw comparisons between Aboriginal and non-aboriginal communities. The study which was conducted in 4,685 Canadian communities based on the CWB components showed the extent of the gap that separates Aboriginal communities from non-aboriginal communities as regards socio-economic conditions. Only one First Nations community ranked among the first 100 whereas 92 First Nations communities ranked among the last 100 (McHardy and O Sullivan, National Council of Welfare of Canada, p.26). Here in Quebec, a brief data analysis allows us to draw the same conclusion: Aboriginal people significantly lag behind the rest of Quebec s population. 14

Table 2: Community Well-Being (CWB) Index: Comparisons between the Aboriginal Population and the Rest of Quebec s Population CWB Components Cree (Eeyou Istchee) Inuit (Nunavik) First Nations Quebec Income.62.58.47 - Education.65.59.68 - Housing.77.62.69 - Employment.78.81.69 - Average.68.67.66.79 Source: Papillon, Martin. Aboriginal Quality of Life under a Modern Treaty: Lessons from the Experience of the Cree Nation of Eeyou Istchee and the Inuit of Nunavik. IRPP, Montréal. IRPP Choices, Vol. 14, No. 9, August, 2008, p.12. and O Sullivan, Erin. The Community Well-Being (CWB) Index: Well-Being in First Nations Communities, 1981-2001 and into the Future. INAC, Ottawa, 2006, p.43. 2.4. Food Insecurity The rate of food insecurity among Aboriginal people is four times higher than in the rest of Canada 33% for the Aboriginal population compared to 8.8 % for the non-aboriginal population (Health Canada, 2007, p. 20). A hungry child runs the risk of suffering from concentration problems in school, which significantly affects his social development and reduces his chances of breaking the intergenerational cycle of poverty. Most community workers point out that the hunger problem exists indeed within Quebec s First Nations communities and few communities have well-known measures at their disposal, such as food banks and community kitchen programs to solve this issue. 2.5. First Nations Housing Crisis The First Nations of Quebec are currently facing a serious housing crisis. This problem found in most Aboriginal communities in Canada if of a structural nature considering that the housing funding program in First Nations communities is not adapted to their demographic changes. In other words, the federal government programs are not designed to meet the needs created by the high rate of population growth among First Nations. Table 3: Quebec s First Nations Housing Inventory Profile 15

Total number of houses 12,500 Of the total number of houses, number of overcrowded houses 4,200 Of the total number of houses, number of houses with needs 3 6,700 Source : AFNQL Aboriginal people are currently undergoing a significant population growth and is one of the three groups with the fastest-growing segment in Canada (CMHC, 2007, p.24). The First Nations population is increasing almost twice as fast as the rest of the Canadian population 1.9% for First Nations compared with 1% for the non-aboriginal population (government of Canada, 2008, p.22). The young population 52% of registered Indians are under the age of 25, as compared with 33% of the Canadian population shows how quickly action must be taken considering that the needs in terms of housing will continue to increase significantly as the youth will have to leave their family homes. Between 2001 and 2026, the First Nations population in Canada will grow by 45% 4. On-reserve and urban populations should increase by 64% and 33% respectively during that same period. From 65,000 in 2001, Quebec s First Nations population should reach 93,000 by 2026 (government of Canada, 2008, p. 21-22). Over the next ten years, the AFNQL anticipates that 10,000 additional houses will be required to meet the needs created by the population growth. As Indian and Northern Affairs Canada itself admits, only 56.9% of the houses in First Nations communities in Canada were considered adequate in 1999-2000 (Health Canada, 2003, p.69). A study conducted by another federal agency revealed that over 22% of Aboriginal families enumerated in reserves lived in inadequate housing in 2001 (CMHC, 2006, p.53). Of all the families living in dwellings which belong to a band, 12.6% were living in dwellings that do not meet quality and size standards (CMHC, 2006), and quality housing means housing which does not require major repairs, has a sufficient number of bedrooms and is affordable, meaning that the family does not have to spend more than one-third of the household income before taxes on housing. The average household income was $21,238 (Ibid). Among the obstacles to access adequate housing, in addition to household poverty, there is the shortage of program funds and the high population growth. The population growth will add to the already overcrowded homes. Overcrowding not only reduces the life span of a house, it worsens social problems, such as poor health conditions, family tensions and violence (INAC, FNQLHSSC, 2008, p.14) As regards housing life span and 3 In need of renovations and/or decontamination. 4 This is a moderate-growth scenario. 16

healthiness, in its health study conducted in 2002, the FNQLHSSC emphasizes the fact that 54.8% of the adults in Quebec s First Nations communities reported that their homes urgently needed maintenance and repairs and that 35.8% lived in moldcontaminated housing units (FNQLHSSC, 2008, p.14). Because of the Indian Act, individuals have difficulty becoming home-owners on a First Nations territory. This situation, combined with the fact that on-reserve property cannot be exempt from seizure, makes it very difficult to access mortgage loans and funds intended for housing construction. In addition to creating a phenomenon of overcrowding, the shortage of housing on the reserves which is due to the fast population growth leads to waiting lists. Almost 90% of Quebec s First Nations communities have a waiting list for their housing program. There is a waiting period of 4 to 6 years in about one-third of the communities (36.7%) and in almost one quarter (21.4%) of the communities, the waiting period exceeds seven years (Ibid, p.14-16). 2.6. Recognized Rights and Rights to be Recognized Recognizing that, in accordance with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the ideal of free human beings enjoying freedom from fear and want can only be achieved if conditions are created whereby everyone may enjoy his economic, social, and cultural rights, as well as his civil and political rights. United Nations International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights, Preamble Indigenous peoples have the right to the full enjoyment, as a collective or as individuals, of all human rights and fundamental freedoms as recognized in the Charter of the United Nations, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and international human rights law. United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, Article One In 1948, member countries of the United Nations adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). Afterwards, many legal instruments were added to the Declaration, including the United Nations International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights (ICESCR). Under international law, the texts are intended to protect and promote the most fundamental human rights and have been signed by Canada. On September 13, 2007, a majority of members of the United Nations General Assembly adopted the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Canada, which for a long time was internationally known as a promoter of human rights, refused to endorse the declaration, along with the United States, Australia, and New Zealand. If Australia and New Zealand have reconsidered their position since that time, Canada and the United States have yet to endorse the document. The government of Canada, which is increasingly isolated on Aboriginal matters within the United Nations, and facing the 17

pressure made by national and regional Aboriginal organizations, announced in its last speech from the Throne (March 2010) its intention to endorse the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples provided compliance with Canadian laws and constitution. Considering that the text is non-binding for the signatory States, a simple ratification may not be sufficient. If the Canadian government truly wishes to demonstrate leadership, it must carry into effect the objectives and rights associated with the Declaration. Upon endorsement of the Declaration, the federal government shall ensure its full implementation in collaboration with the Aboriginal people. Compliance with First Nations social, cultural and economic rights is essential. 18

Part 3

3. Community Development and Mobilization This document has been prepared to provide guidelines to individuals who wish to develop a local strategy to fight poverty and develop a structure or create a mobilization committee. The advocated approach community development is recognized by a large number of workers and organizations which have tested it in various fields. This same approach was selected by the FNQLHSSC s Social Services Sector and the four communities that were selected for the development of a pilot project which consisted in creating youth protection first-line services. 3.1. Philosophy To properly meet the individual and collective needs of the communities, it is important to work WITH 5 the people. Members of a community must lie at the heart of any decision that affects them and must be given the opportunity to get involved in the entire process involving the development of new projects. Creating local committees whose purpose would be to fight poverty and social exclusion, and whose mission would be to develop local strategies, will foster socio-economic community development. Local projects and strategies will thus be developed by and for community members. It is imperative that the projects meet the needs expressed by the members during community meetings and consultations. This participative approach, based on actions taken by local people, fosters empowerment for those individuals. The FNQLHSSC and other Commissions of the AFNQL will also be approached. The purpose of having regional organizations participate is to support the social and economic development of the communities through new initiatives. The expertise developed by the AFNQL s Commissions must be more accessible to the members of the communities. In the end, community development is the result of multisectorial and intersectorial work within the communities. Development therefore depends on everyone s participation. It is the result of joint efforts made by elected representatives, community workers, but most importantly, by the members of the community who wish to change things and improve the living conditions within their community. 5 The AVEC (WITH) Approach was developed by the Collective for a Poverty-Free Québec. 21

3.2. Vision: Ecosystem Approach Adapted from RCAS, 2006, p.7. 22

What is Community Mobilization? Pooling the community s and partners talents, resources and expertise; Getting the community to participate and become involved; Providing more prevention, awareness-raising and support services; Influencing the opinion of the chiefs so that the communities may become more involved in finding solutions; Further empowering the members of the community. Source: Canadian Aboriginal AIDS Network, p.5 How to Mobilize a Community Raise awareness among the members of the community; Work with the existing committees; Use community radio and other media; Use social networks such as Facebook; Demonstrate leadership; Be sensitive to the people s needs; Demonstrate respect. How to Work with the Community 1. Become fully familiar with the community and its needs Obtain data on the demographic profile, health, social and economic conditions, local administration, etc.; Collect qualitative data (opinions of individuals from the community) by conducting a local consultation; Be fully aware of the needs of the members; Take inventory of available resources which could be tapped into. 2. Guide and support the community 23

Choose a medium for interaction; Initiate discussion; Plan actions; Develop one or several projects. 3. Work together Facilitate a local working group; Create a spirit of mutual help and solidarity. 4. Evaluate the various work dimensions with the communities Evaluate and choose an approach; Assess the benefits of the project; Evaluate their involvement Source: Taken and adapted from the Healthy Cities and Towns Network s Website Community Development and its Five Key Components Citizen participation; Individual and collective empowerment; Joint action and partnership; Reduction of inequalities; Harmonization and promotion of public policies which are conducive to health. Source : INSPQ, p.21, 2002 Within a community, it is important that the people work more WITH the population rather than FOR the population, without overlooking the needs of any existing bodies and the projects implemented by such bodies. It is primarily a matter of acting in a complementary manner. 24

3.3. Community Development Objective This is a strategic approach whose purpose is to improve the health and well-being of individuals. The community development approach requires actions intended to strengthen the communities, the individuals which make up the communities, and existing resources. This approach takes into account the uniqueness and needs of the community. In this context, the community worker role consists in providing the members of their community with tools as well as guidance and support. Popular education is a key asset that will foster both individual and collective empowerment. Participation Participation goes beyond sharing information and consulting. The word takes on its full meaning when the members are involved in the decision-making process. When the members participate, they are also involved in taking charge, empowering and expressing their culture and values (INSPQ, p.22, 2002). Two conditions are required for effective participation: access to the information which will help make wise decisions and access to decision-making bodies. 25

Empowerment: the Power to Act Empowerment can have various meanings. In fact, there are many types of empowerment and the concept may vary depending on the problem at hand. In this instance, we will consider empowerment as a means to fight poverty and contribute to social development within communities. Empowerment in social services should also be considered. Therefore, we have chosen Bill Ninacs definition, a well-known author, as well as a practitioner in the area of community and social development. Empowerment is an assistance process that allows individuals to overcome the psychological barriers of stigmatization and guilt. It also encourages increased autonomy of action, on both individual and collective levels. According to Ninacs, it is up to individuals and communities to determine which direction this change will take. In regards to poverty, the author recognizes that poverty and exclusion may take on various forms; they can be expressed at the level of possession, of knowledge and of power. Finally, Ninacs identifies four bases of empowerment: a sense of personal power; intervention aimed at developing existing strengths; the adoption of an ecological analysis framework; and the vision whereby that power is not necessarily a rarity. (Cayouette, 2009, p. 147-148). Two Levels of Empowerment Individual and Collective: Individual Community or Collective Participation Technical skills Self-esteem Critical awareness Participation Skills Communication Community capital Source: Ninacs, INSPQ, p. 24-25 26

Process of Individual Empowerment Components Silent assistance; PARTICIPATION Participation in simple discussions (right to speak); Participation in debates (right to be heard); Participation in decisions (approval or refusal to consent). TECHNICAL SKILLS Progressive acquisition of the practical and technical knowledge required, through action and participation. SELF-ESTEEM Self-recognition of the legitimacy of one s own identity; Self-recognition of one s own skills; Recognition of one s skills by others. CRITICAL AWARENESS Collective awareness: the individual or community is not the only one with this problem; Social awareness: problems are influenced by social organization; Political awareness: problems will be solved through social change. Conception: W.A. Ninacs, INSPQ, p.24. 27

Collective Awareness Components PARTICIPATION Inclusion of individuals who are not considered natural leaders in decisionmaking; Equity in the redistribution of power. SKILLS Accountability that fosters skills of individuals and community; Capacity to bring together local resources, to get them to cooperate and to benefit from their synergy; Consensual and decisional skills, and the capacity and desire to self-manage one s development; Strengthening support networks for individuals. COMMUNICATION Efficient dissemination of general information; Access to the information required to successfully carry out specific projects; Transparency in the decision-making process. COMMUNITY CAPITAL Sense of belonging to the community and environment; Awareness that each member is a citizen. Created by W.A. Ninacs, INSPQ, p.25. 28

Empowerment in Social Services Components METHOD Individual treatment Social services of groups Community organization APPROACH Community psychology structural self-help group self-managed group for the group Social action Social planning Community-type local development grassroots model Community action in advocating for social rights public and para-public community all strategies under this method Administration of programs Research empowerment evaluation participatory evaluation participatory research Created by W.A. Ninacs, Service social, p. 71 Consultation Consultation is a voluntary process which can be formal or informal, where various analyses and responses to problems are combined. Too much consultation may hinder action. It is necessary to consult by building upon the convergence of interests in order to take action. Consultation may be based on a partnership or a common project. A partnership should always involve equality between the various parties. 29

Planning Planning is an essential component of community organization and development. For a project to be successful, all tasks related to its fulfilment development must be well planned. A community in action Source: Algoma, p.7 Plans for whatever it wants; Creates a sense of trust among its members; Keeps its members well-informed on what is happening; Respects all of its members, regardless of their means of livelihood; Thinks of what the community and its members need to stay healthy; Understands itself and knows what it wants; Includes all of its members in the planning process. How to encourage community planning and participation? Create a mobilization committee to encourage participation Develop a communications plan Create a meeting place Create a facilitation group Create a follow-up committee Create a secretariat 30

Facilitation The facilitator must create an environment of trust, safety and freedom to speak The facilitator ensures that the meeting moves along The facilitator ensures that the secretary is taking efficient notes Winning conditions when facilitating a meeting or a committee Limit the number of objectives One step at a time Remain constantly focused on the objectives that were set Take into account the abilities of the individuals Recognize members implication and participation A proper communications plan Access to information Establish consultation partnerships Ensure equality between partners Value consensus Innovate within the organization Identify leaders Identify file managers Adapted from INSPQ, p.27 31

Conditions that will help maintain mobilization Always be mindful of valuing and recognizing the work accomplished by the participants Set realistic short-term objectives leading to benefits and victories Implement an operating procedure based on the interests and availability of the individuals Oversee communications Make time for fun with activities that encourage cohesion and a sense of belonging Awareness and mobilization means There is no magic recipe when it comes to mobilizing a community. From one community to another, individuals will take different paths to get to their destination. What is important is to build on the community s strengths without overlooking its weaknesses and enhance any existing dynamism. Strengths and energy lie at the heart of communities and there are many examples of how long-term commitment encourages individual and community development. Here are some conditions that foster mobilization: The intensity of the problem affecting the community; The hope raised by the project; The social, economic and political situation. 32

3.4. Setting up a Mobilization, Consultation and Action Committee to Fight Poverty Who may create a mobilization and consultative committee to fight poverty? Any organization, group of individuals, or any individual with a desire to get socially involved and contribute to the socio-economic development of their community or nation. What purpose would such a committee serve? This type of committee can serve multiple purposes. It may give a voice to those who are poor or socially excluded; it may help mobilize the entire committee for projects designed to improve the social well-being of the community and its members; organize fund-raising events and develop community projects; implement set up volunteer committees; and implement a support network that could even go beyond the boundaries of its community, its nation and region. Should we develop partnerships? It is important to develop partnerships considering that a project is more likely to succeed if there is consensus on it within the community. Here are some potential partnerships: Band councils (various service sectors) Various citizen committees (women, seniors, youth councils, etc.) Community organizations Native Friendship Centres Regional committees Regional First Nations committees Aboriginal Social Economy Circle Assembly of First Nations (Make Poverty History campaign) Government partners (federal and provincial governments) New Pathways : Foundation for the future of First Nations Other foundations 33

Non-governmental organizations Regional groups and tables working to fight poverty What are the main steps involved in creating a mobilization, consultative and action committee? Organize an first meeting (assembly, discussion forum, information session, community dinner, cultural activity) with members of your community, and with others as the need arises At this first meeting, choose the type of committee (its form, membership, frequency of meetings, who will be part of the committee) Determine a date for the first formal meeting Find a name for the committee Determine short, medium and long-term objectives Define priorities Plan your activities Establish a timeframe for your activities and objectives Obtain letters of support from organizations within your community Obtain a resolution or a motion from your band council to be officially recognized Prepare a document regarding your committee, mission, objectives and activities Legally register the committee, if required Open a bank account, if required Determine where your meetings will be held Publicize the creation and implementation of your committee (community radio, local newspaper, posters, pamphlets) Seek funding Organize activities that are likely to mobilize the population Get organized collectively while enjoying yourselves 34

Which documents are required to set up a mobilization, consultative and action committee? Certain documents will be useful in structuring your committee, although they are not all necessary. However, in order to access certain government grants and various funding sources, you must incorporate your committee as a non-profit organization. To develop a cooperative (workers, solidarity, services, etc.), it is preferable to be incorporated in order to increase potential sources of funding. This may be achieved through the federal government (Industry Canada) or through the provincial government (business registry). Considering that your committee will not necessarily have significant financial needs at the beginning, or if it does not necessarily wish to promote a specific project, you do not have to incorporate your committee as a non-profit organization. Your committee could develop an assistance organization for example, which could later become independent. At this stage, it would be best if the organization were to become a non-profit corporation. What are some potential sources of funding? There are two possible sources of funding for your committee. The first possibility consists in organizing a fund-raising or self-financing campaign. The second possibility consists in seeking funding from organizations or the government. Funding may also be provided by charitable organizations such as foundations, religious groups and other non-governmental organizations. The private sector may also be approached, in particular to sponsor activities and other projects. Government funds available to community organizations are delegated to the various departments. For example, one must seek funding from the ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux for health and social services projects; the ministère de l Éducation, des Loisirs et du Sport for projects relating to education, recreation and sports, the ministère de la Culture, Communications et Condition féminine for cultural projects and those related to community media, the ministère de la Famille et des Aînés for projects related to families and elders, the Secrétariat à la jeunesse for youth projects, the ministère de l Emploi et de la Solidarité sociale (SACAIS) for social and community action projects, etc. Of course, Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada and Health Canada s FNIH may also be approached. Source: Taken and adapted from the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Youth Network 35

Social Economy and Non-profit Organization Projects: Examples in the Aboriginal Community 1. Social economy projects in the Aboriginal community NIMILUPAN NITSHINATSH Home Care Solidarity Cooperative, in Mashteuiatsh; Attikamekw Cultural Development Cooperative (Coopérative de solidarité des arts Nehirowisiw, Attikamekw Nation Council); Inter-Nations Forestry Cooperative (workers cooperative) (Opitciwan); Fédération des coopératives du Nouveau-Québec (40 years of existence, 14 cooperative members); Quebec Native Women; Wapikoni Mobile; Utepi Foundation; New Pathways: Foundation for the future of First Nations; First Nations early childhood centres; Friendship Centres. 2. Some examples of community organizations that currently exist in communities Maison de la Famille Shaputuan Puamun (Mashteuiatsh); Maison de la famille Uikanishitsuap (Uashat-Maliotenam); Many communities have community kitchens; Some communities have established second-hand clothing stores, for example, Comptoir Agoshin in Wendake. 36

Community Participation In short, community participation means: Values: That the members of the community participate in the planning and decisionmaking processes, in particular through CONSULTATION; That each person works WITH the individuals involved rather than a small group that works on behalf of everyone. Listening attentively and showing respect for local knowledge; Respect for both formal and informal local leadership. Why is community participation important? It fosters communication; It helps create a shared vision for the future; It is an inclusive approach; It helps bring community members together; It helps build the community and its social fabric. 37

Conclusion This kit was developed to assist committees and/or local structures in their efforts to include the fight against poverty component in their activities. This tool is designed to foster social development within the communities. It is not meant to be followed step by step; but rather to be used as a guiding tool. In addition, the FNQLHSSC s Social Development Office will continue to develop new projects to complement existing tools. We also wish to provide appropriate training that will support the communities in developing projects. As regards the Social Development Office s initiatives, we will continue to expand the social and professional development component, such as the First Nations OPTRA. We will also continue to develop active measures as well as theoretical frameworks in social development and social economy in order to effectively conceptualize those areas of activity and adapt them to the First Nations context. We also want to update current knowledge on First Nations poverty and socio-economic development. 39