The American Citizen is The New Indian with Activist John Trudel 2/2

Innovative approach produces results

Innovative approach produces results

Search for new casino operators on hold - The Barrie Examiner - Ontario, CA

Search for new casino operators on hold - The Barrie Examiner - Ontario, CA

Rama ready to roll out compost program - The Orillia Packet & Times - Ontario, CA

Rama ready to roll out compost program - The Orillia Packet & Times - Ontario, CA

Voters have a right to know - The Orillia Packet & Times - Ontario, CA

Voters have a right to know - The Orillia Packet & Times - Ontario, CA

Casino looking for way to recycle more of its trash - The Orillia Packet & Times - Ontario, CA

Casino looking for way to recycle more of its trash - The Orillia Packet & Times - Ontario, CA

RAMA FIRST NATION | Chippewas of Rama to build diagnostic imaging and health education and training facility

RAMA FIRST NATION Chippewas of Rama to build diagnostic imaging and health education and training facility

Transparency is long overdue for First Nations politicians

Transparency is long overdue for First Nations politicians

JOBS FOR OUR PEOPLE

 As welfare is going up in Rama,  i  one would like to see job shadowing for are members. OK not that does not mean that i am racist, I just feel that our members who don't have jobs and want to work, could be trained to full fill some of the position that some of the non natives hold , Don't you think it has to happen some time? I don't mean the people that are members, We have members that cold be doing some of these jobs  or could be trained . Every time there is an election this is promise but it never happens.  It has to happens don't  ya think? This isn't being racist this is wanting jobs for my people. And for the next generation, that is going to school , Our members on and of have so much to offer , lawyers , accountant, engineer, The need to no that they will have a job here one day.

Cherish her: A message to my First Nation brothers | rabble.ca

Cherish her: A message to my First Nation brothers rabble.ca

Band members disgusted that shark fin soup available - The Orillia Packet & Times - Ontario, CA

Band members disgusted that shark fin soup available - The Orillia Packet & Times - Ontario, CA

Rama urged to ban shark fin soup - The Orillia Packet & Times - Ontario, CA

Rama urged to ban shark fin soup - The Orillia Packet & Times - Ontario, CA

Letter from Hon. Duncan, Minister of Indian Affairs

October 12, 2011

I am writing on behalf of the Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, in response to your correspondence of August 5, 2011, regarding the Coldwater-Narrows specific claim.

On March 24, 2011, Canada made an offer to the Chippewas of Beausoleil, the Chippewas of Rama, the Chippewas of Georgina Island and the Nawash First Nations to settle the Coldwater-Narrows specific claim.  In April 2011, all the First Nations agreed by band council resolutions to recommend Canada's offer to their respective membership, and to engage in the process of a ratification vote, which requires time to prepare.  The date of the ratification vote has not yet been set.

With regard to the compensation, Canada is not involved in the development of the First Nations' trust agreements nor is it reviewing or approving them.  For further information on this matter, I suggest that you contact your Chief and Council.

I trust that my response addresses your concerns.

Sincerely,

David McArthur
Chief of Staff

Protest, Resistance, and Dissent in Native Americans

Life of a traditional person

Casino cuts staff - The Orillia Packet & Times - Ontario, CA

Casino cuts staff - The Orillia Packet & Times - Ontario, CA

Cut Backs

Where do you think we can cut back and save money? And where do you think we should be spending more money? I think we need more councillors , i would like to see one for every hundred people.

Canadian Aboriginal History: "Did You Know"? (part 2 of 2)

Canadian Aboriginal History: "Did You Know"? (part 1 of 2)

TAX COMPLAINT

To complain about a retailer not honouring the PST exemption off - reserve, call Toll Free 1-866-6688297.

Jack Layton's last letter to Canadians - Politics - CBC News

Jack Layton's last letter to Canadians - Politics - CBC News

Powwow heading outdoors - The Orillia Packet & Times - Ontario, CA#.Tle_lhpNjY8.facebook#.Tle_lhpNjY8.facebook#.Tle_lhpNjY8.facebook

Powwow heading outdoors - The Orillia Packet & Times - Ontario, CA#.Tle_lhpNjY8.facebook#.Tle_lhpNjY8.facebook#.Tle_lhpNjY8.facebook

Talks on Coldwater Narrows land claim continue - Midland Free Press - Ontario, CA

Talks on Coldwater Narrows land claim continue - Midland Free Press - Ontario, CA

Land-claim settlement offer in First Nation's hands: Stanton - The Orillia Packet & Times - Ontario, CA

Land-claim settlement offer in First Nation's hands: Stanton - The Orillia Packet & Times - Ontario, CA

She's Alive... Beautiful... Finite... Hurting... Worth Dying for.

Trudell Documentary

First Nation wants to handle own land

First Nation wants to handle own land

Simcoe Article: Land part of talks

Simcoe Article: Land part of talks

Canadian Human Rights Act | NWAC/l’AFAC

Canadian Human Rights Act NWAC/l’AFAC

Spiritual Leader and Elder Ojigkwanong (William Commanda) Passes On

Spiritual Leader and Elder Ojigkwanong (William Commanda) Passes On

Land claim in people's hands - The Orillia Packet & Times - Ontario, CA

Land claim in people's hands - The Orillia Packet & Times - Ontario, CA

Is it like this on EVERY First Nation?

Hello to all our readers,

Just a quick question, what is it like on your First Nation reservations?  Does your Chief and Councils answer your questions without changing the subject or throwing in sarcasm and rude comments?  Do they answer your e-mails and letters?  Do the Councillors speak at meetings?  Do your Councillors have to ask the Chief before answering your questions at community meetings?  Do your Chief and Councils inform you when they take a wage increase or implement astronomical severance packages and bonuses?  Does your Chief and Council structure your community like a corporation and a municipality?  Does your Chief and Council keep leasing out your land, while someone else makes a profit and without taking into consideration the devastating impacts to our mother earth?  Does your Chief and Council surround themselves with a staff who do not understand the needs and wants of our people, along with knowledge of our culture and beliefs?  Does your Chief and Council spend money on large investments without consulting with you?  Is there nepotism on your reserve?  Is your Chief and Council involved in every aspect of your life?  Do Chief and Council require a written letter before answering any of your questions?  Do your Chief and Council have the address of each and every single age voting band member?  Do your Chief and Council travel with an entourage of staff, to numerous meetings and conferences without reporting on the outcomes to the membership?  Does your Chief and Council let your Chief Financial Officer have final say in all financial matters without consulting with the band members first?  Is your community newsletter censored?  Do your Chief and Councils have a time clock to justify their high paying wages?  Do Chief and Council listen to your ideas and even ask for your opinion?  Does your Chief and Council have to sign a confidentiality clause?  Is your Chief and Council run fairly?  Do your Chief and Council allow slanderous letters to be written by a member about another member who is a candidate for the Chief and Council election, during election time.  Do your Chief and Council allow a candidate for Chief, who withdrew from running in the election, to publish a support letter for another Chief candidate during the election?  Does your Chief live on the reserve?  Do each of your members have to pay $1000s for land you already own?  Do you have to sign in and out when entering and leaving your band office?  Do you have cameras watching your every move?  Are you allowed to use a sweat lodge without being shut down by your Health & Safety Dept?  Do you have to show your status card for every purchase at a band owned business?  Does your Chief wear an authentic Plains war bonnet at every public function and swearing-in ceremony?  Is there tree planting on your reserve?  Do you have "No Trespassing" signs everywhere with locked gates?  Do your Chief and Council respect your First Nation name and your history?  Do they train and job shadow on your reserve?  Does your Chief and Council deal with the high drop out rates in high school?  Do Chief and Council implement drug and alcohol programs for the youth?  Do Chief and Council help members living below the poverty line?  Do your Chief and Council provide your mentally challenged with recreation programs?  Do your Chief and Council have open Community meetings on a regular basis or are they structured with an agenda?

In other words, do your Chief and Council really deal with the problems or is it just lip service?

Meeting

Coldwater Land Claim Update  Rama Hall August  11, 2011 at 5:30 Thurs. For Members ONLY.

Finance Meeting - June 11, 2011

- no economic development for this year and next
- Marina restaurant - not this year, maybe next year
- businesses at the casino not making any money, except for Biindigen store on gaming floor, still running in the red!
- according to Rick Morano, CFO, housing is revenue, so there is no rent to own and there are strictly rentals, therefore band members will never own their own home and land.  Cost of a lot is $14,000.  Why should our people have to pay for our land twice?  We already own it because former Chief Yellowhead and his people purchased the land we now live on.
- The financial information should be given to the people in hard copy form, so this information can be reviewed because the information pertains to their money.  Instead of viewing the information on a slide projector. 
- There were a few instances where a department showed a certain number of employees, but the band has not hired them yet. 
- In the financial statements, people in the on-call positions were classified as part-time workers, which is misleading to our employment numbers.  We should know how many on-call, part-time, full-time, and band members and non-native people fill these positions.  Why is this such a big secret?  Obviously, if there is no economic development, there is no job creation.
- There were only 17 people in attendance from the Rama membership, and the rest were staff members.

BALANCE by Spiritual Advisor Dave Chief

RESPECT MEANS LISTENING UNTIL EVERYONE HAS HEARD AND UNDERSTOOD ONLY THEN IS THERE A POSSIBILITY OF BALANCE AND HARMONY.

Dreaming big

Dreaming big

Transforming the land

Training for a better future

The long road to self-government

Tradition

 I have a question what does it mean to you to be traditional.? This question is also for Chief and Council.

Report On Bear From Rama Police.

Rama Police service has been called to investigate bear sightings on a number of occasions, at the ojibway Bay marina, in the area of Willi son side road, close to the employee entrance of Casino Rama, and  Grandmother Road .Officers investigating some of the incidents reported that the bear hesitated to move and appeared to be unafraid of people and cars. On June 6 early in the morning reports of a bear at the entrance of casino Rama were received. Officers were unable to frighten the bear away with engine revving, use of the Horn and sirens or air shots and determined that in view of recent reports and the bears unresponsiveness to their efforts, it presented an immediate danger to the community . Shots were fired at the bear but it fled into the bush and officers believed they had missed it. The immediate area was searched but the bear appeared to have fled the area unharmed.. On June 16 it was reported that  a dead bear was located near the maintenance department yard. The location is consistent with reports of where the bear was last seen  so it  is likely that it succumbed to injuries sustained by the officer,s shots. The bear had an MNR tag and this incident was reported to them by Rama Police Servicrs. Under the circumstances, MNR had no concerns about the action taken by the Rama Police.It is unfortunate that the bear was not located on the day of the incident but officers did not find any evidence to indicate that the bear had been injured during their search of the immediate area, Community safety is our key priority. Extreme measures are the last resort in any circumstance. This particular bear had been sighted in the area on a number of occasions and its peculiar behaviour was cause for concern. We are also grateful that none of our community members were harmed although we do understand that at least one dog was seriously injured by a bear and had to be euthanized.  Rama Police officers have been trained in MNR guidelines on how handle bear sightings,They were first trained last spring and a review was conducted at the commencement of this spring. This is in keeping with appropriate protocols for community safety . Arrangements for the Rama Culture Dept. to preform the appropriate ceremony were initiated and burial at the site was facilitated for the bear.

First Nations Success Story

If there was ever any doubt that culturally focused education contributes to student and overall success, this story of a graduating class might just convince you that incorporating traditional values, culture, language and identity is the most important factor in a vision of the future for First Nations communities, not this so called "progress" that is continually shoved down our throats, leading us further and faster down the path of outright assimilation.
 

Landfill

 We need to fence in  the land fill to stop the bears from coming around, and garbage should be put out the day of the garbage pick up,, not sitting on decks for days The band needs to build steel garbage bins. This may help  in keeping the bears out of the village.

Think somebody maybe should've told this guy not to wear the bear suit?

Nice. First Nations Day. Less than a week after the bear shooting. Thumbs up buddy.

Update from the MNR regarding the bear

Update on the bear from the MNR. This particular bear wore tracking tags in its ears, which means it has been moved by the MNR before. They confirmed that the police or anyone really only needed to call them and they would have moved the bear again. This is just too sad on so many levels. I agree with the commentor about the potential for mauling of a child, that risk is always there, as it is with dogs, etc. But it's the treatment of the bear following the shooting, the suffering, the secrecy etc that is truly upsetting. There are two elders in this community who have both expressed their saddness, concern and disappointment about this. There is a bear who was found struck by a vehicle in Wooodstock New Brunswick that the water walkers just found. They are doing ceremony for that bear in that community at present. Where are our ceremony makers at a time like this? Oh another thing the MNR did tell us was that the police report on the bear shooting is public record that we have the right to see it. The police board is meeting this evening by the looks of things, and I did request the police report be made public in my email to chief and council on the weekend. I got very minimal response and no one took me up on my request and offer that someone from council come to my house and visit me over the weekend to give me the facts as they have to come to know them about the bear shooting incident.

Shawna

Bear Shooting

As most of the community is already aware a bear was shot and killed in Rama last week.Numerous bear sitings have been reported this past spring.It is understood that a member of the Rama Police Services shot a year old black bear, estimated to weigh 150lbs.The bear was shot near the graveyard, wounded and ran away to die. Reports indicate that the bear ran up the tracks toward the bush on the east side of the tracks. It was also rumoured that the bear suffered and was heard moaning as it died. It was not given a proper burial.Contributors to this blog have emailed Chief and Council to get answers as to why a young bear was shot by a police officer and left to suffer for three days. The response received is that chief and council are 'looking into it' and have called for an investigation and would report to the community. That was on Saturday June 18th. Contributors to this blog contacted the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) who advised that that particular bear was wearing a tracking collar. We are waiting to hear from them with more information. A couple of things are cause for concern. How can a bear be left to suffer in a First Nations community? The bear is our brother, our teacher and our protector. We learn from the bear and honour and respect the bear as part of our ceremonies. Also, it's concerning that a police officer shot the bear. Why wasn't the MNR called to tranq and relocate the bear? Did the officer discharge his or her service revolver to shoot the bear? In a residential neighborhood no less? From what I understand a substantial amount of paperwork has to be completed when an officer discharges a weapon. So what's in the police report? Why is nobody telling the community what happened? The truth would set us at ease and allow us to collectively decide how to come to terms with the death of the bear. It is interesting and important to note that in other FN communities when a bear is killed or dies ceremony is held and the community feasts to celebrate the life of the bear. This bear was left to die wounded and it's spirit unacknowledged. The bear carries very powerful medicine with him. What does that suggest about our community? It concerns me greatly to think how far removed we are from our original instructions. I've requested that the police report be disclosed to the community. We have a right to know what really happened and how that bear spent it's final days.In closing I will transcribe what Master Herbalist Matthew Wood has to say about the bear:
Bear. Bear provides one of the most powerful and important medicines in human society. The bear, which occasionally walks upright, is the animal most analogous to the human being and from it the Indian people learned which plants to eat and many medicine plants. With his claws bear digs up roots, pulls off berries and bark, catches fish and small animals and insects. Thus the bear is totem or representative of the food and medicine gatherer and preparer.
Bear medicines strengthen what we would call the adrenals (adrenal cortex). They give reserve, power and stamina. One set of bear medicines are oily, brown furry roots (there are more of these than one would suppose). The  oil builds up the adrenals, which are composed of oil. Another set are berries, which bears love to eat. These sedate and cool, since fats and oils build up energy reserves which can cause hear.
People with bear medicine are constitutionally usually large and powerful, the they tend to be introspective. Like the hibernating bear, they like to sleep and dream. Often they are not active in the theatre of life until some powerful stimulus awakens them to their destiny. They need the first of the two categories below. People who need bear medicine of the second category are thin, weak with exhausted adrenals. They need dietary oil to rebuild their system.
In closing, we just want to acknowledge the bear, thank him for his life and ask that Creator help that bears spirit return to the spirit world. I ask that the bear forgive us for our indiscretions and bless us with his medicines. We also ask that leadership be honest and share the truth with the community.

Miigwech.

Environment

There latest propaganda on the environment, stating Rama is on the leading edge of environmental issues is laughable. Do people really believe this crap. Protecting are water as we pour tones of salt into the lake every year killing every thing in its path.

What makes an Elder?

By Maurice Switzer


BayToday.ca

Thursday, April 28, 2011

A lot of people want to know when someone becomes an Elder (capital “E”).
During my involvement as a reviewer in two Native Studies textbooks being introduced into Ontario high schools this coming fall, editors were regularly calling to ask if certain First Nations citizens should be referred to as Elders.
I suggested that a good test would be to call these individuals and ask how they wanted to be described. Anyone who replied “Elder”, I said, wasn’t one.
Every First Nations person who achieves senior citizen status can rightfully be described as an elder, as in “elderly”, but the magic number seems to vary, depending on the circumstance. A friend was just in my office inviting me to join a “seniors” billiards league with him, for which the qualifying age is 50.
That seems a tad young. I didn’t sit in front of a computer until I was 50. Come to think of it, I didn’t even start to grow up until I was that age.
Good luck to celebrities like Brittany Spears who produce their autobiographies when they’ve reached the ripe old age of 17 or 18, but, comparatively speaking, they’re still in life’s diaper years.
It seems that a better way to define such an important term as Elder is to provide examples of people who seem to fill the bill. For me, the first prerequisite of an Elder is that they be someone from whom we can learn important things about how to live a good life.
Three names immediately come to mind, all of them having passed into the Spirit World in the past few months.
****
I met Ernie Benedict at First Nations Technical Institute on Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory east of Belleville. We were developing the first Aboriginal-specific post-secondary program in journalism , and Ernie was asked to be an advisor for our media faculty.
The first time he visited the campus, I was speaking with him outside the FNTI building on a beautiful, sunny, late spring day. I happened to glance over Ernie’s shoulder and saw a huge snapping turtle trudging up the steep driveway incline behind him. That image will stay with me forever.
Elders in FNTI programs did more than open and close meetings, a practice that Anishinabek Elder Gordon Waindubence might include in his wry definition of “drive-by spirituality”. We relied on Ernie’s experience and accumulated wisdom about journalism – he began writing, editing and printing his first newspaper in Akwesasne on a high school Gestetner. (Younger readers can Google Gestetner.)
During one class he talked about how mainstream media so often treat Native Americans as if we are invisible. He offered the example of a young Inuit boy who ran for miles to notify authorities after stumbling across the 1935 wreckage of the plane in which American humourist Will Rogers died.
“Not one story mentioned the name of that Native boy,” Ernie told us, a lesson I have recalled on many occasions since.
****
Few teachers can command attention in the way Merle Assance-Beedie did when touching on her residential school experiences for participants in cross-cultural workshops. You could hear the proverbial pin drop when she described how her idyllic childhood years with loving parents abruptly switched to the trauma of internment at four residential schools.
Merle never had to elaborate on the cruelties she endured; the impact they had on her for decades told in her voice, and brought to tears many who heard her speak. The fact that she paid a visit to one aging clergyman who had been particularly abusive to her spoke volumes about Merle’s unshakeable conviction that kindness and compassion are better solutions than hate and revenge.
Hundreds of teachers, social workers, police officers and government employees have participated in cross-cultural workshops we call “The Missing Chapter: what you didn’t learn about aboriginal peoples in school”, a title contributed by Merle.
****
When I once hesitatingly told David Gehue that I was surprised by some of the, shall we say, “colourful’ language he sometimes used, he snorted “I’m not a holy man.”
What you saw was definitely what you got with the lumbering Mi’Kmaq healer, who had been tutored by some of the most respected traditional teachers on Turtle Island.
Blind from an early age following a scuffle with his brother, David was groomed by the old people in Indian Brook who believed that the little boy born with pure white hair was destined to do important things.
Like many true Elders, he had to experience life’s bumps before accepting sacred responsibilities, in David’s case the duty of carrying the Shake Tent ceremony. He helped scores of people – Native and non-Native – deal with all manner of pain and sickness, with results that often baffled practitioners of Western medicine.
He told those who sought his help that he could only relay things about their condition that the Spirits showed him; that ultimately, each of us has to do what is required to heal ourselves.
David’s death followed by a month that of his brother with whom he had the childhood scuffle that caused his blindness.
****
May their spirits be in a better place, and shine in the night sky with all the other stars.
Maurice Switzer is a citizen of the Mississaugas of Alderville First Nation. He serves as director of communications for the Union of Ontario Indians and editor of the Anmishinabek News.

Financial Meeting

Saturday ,June11,2011   Chippewas of Rama Community Hall  9:30a.m. Identification requuuired MEMBERS ONLY.

The Money Train

In  2000 Rama saw the big payday, with there share of Casino Rama funds released. To go to economic development, education, health , culture and enhance the casino. Did it? One thing that went up was  the pay for Chief and Council and never stop ed. Until now  Severance packages big Christmas bonuses and clothing money came also we did   nt  have that before. And yes C&C got money to travel but nothing like what they have to day.i would,nt say a thing about wages if we had jobs,  if people weren't living below the poverty line, if we had economic development that created work.for all. as was the casino was suppose to do. and if we had homes that people owned and the land with it.We gave up a big piece of land for the casino and  will be giving up more with the new deal. and for what. Every thing has change here  More policy's that restricted us from being who we are. And every thing is a liability we  have put millions into ventures that have failed.  And some retail that has been running in the red for years, So if things were different i would say a thing.We could have evolved into a  self -sufficient community with  a sense of pride and spirit. we have had the money to look after our needs and not have to ask for funding and to diversify and not re lie on the casino funds .Did we?

The Ojebways and the Six Nations

The Ojebway chiefs having closed their talks, concerning the renewal of the, treaties,the wampum belt were returned to the Onondaga chief, with the salutations of all the Ojebway chiefs, and there warriors, women and children. John S. Johnson one of the Mohawk chiefs next addressed the council. He informed the Ojebway chiefs of the relation existing between the Six  United Nations. The Mohawks he said are considered the head nation next to the Oneidas, and the Cayugas and the Tuscaroras were their children who were also three brothers. The Tuttelees, Nanticokes, Mantuas, and the Delawares were their nephews who dwell in the bosoms. Johson the explain the emblems contained in the wampum belt brought by Yellowhead, which he said they acknowledged to be acts of their father. Firstly the council fire of at the Sault St. Marie has no emblem, because then the council was held. Secondly the council fire at Mantoulin has the emblem of the beautiful white fish, this signifies purity or a clean white heart that all our hearts ought to be white towards each other. Thirdly the emblem of a beaver placed at an island on Penetanguishew Bay denotes wisdom, Fourthly the emblem of the  white deer placed at the Lake Simcoe signified superiority, the dish and ladles at the same place,indicated abundance of game and food. Fifthly the EAGLE perched on a fall pine at the CREDIT denotes watching and swiftness in conveying messages. The Eagle was to watch all the council fires between the Six Nations and the Ojebways and being far - sighted he might in the event of any thing happening communicate the tidings to the distant tribes. Sixthly the sun was hung up in the centre of the belt, to show that their acts were done in the face of the sun, by whom they swore that they would for  ever    observe the treaties made between the two parties. Page 121  History of the ojebways by Peter Jones.

We need Leaders.

We cant live in fear of speaking out, by some of the comments people don't trust the C&C it should,nt be that way We need leaders to preserve our culture , our language, and  land. , at meetings they  were open and  free to speak. not just th e chief  .   There should be no secrets from the members . And when they go some where there should be a report as to why they have traveled on our behalf. This is our home and we  the right to have a say in all matters the effect  us our land and our children. And our money  .   If we lose our language our traditions . Then what? We need leaders the speak for us , that fight for us and that work for the members. We don't need politicians. We need a few more people on council . with less pay . People who run for the people not the money. Who really care. Our children need to know there history , and where they came   from   how we got here   . They don't no. Every one has  to be treated equal there is no balance here any more.

Step Up

Step up and help people when they need it. We use to be the sharing , caring people.as native people we help our brother out. Stand up for your rights , what do you fear? You have rights . Why do so many worry about there jobs , what about the way things are here you complain but say nothing i guess if you have a job that's all that matters. One day your going to wish you had.

What Makes A Healthy Community?

Clean and safe physical environment, Peace. equity and social justice. Adequate access to food,water shelter  ,income safety, work and  recreation for all. Adequate access to health care services. Opportunities for learning and skill development. strong, mutually supportive relationships and networks. Workplaces that are supportive of individual and family well- being.  Wide participation of residents in decision- making. Strong local cultural and spiritual heritage. Diverse and vital economy. Protection of the natural environment. Responsible use of resources to ensure long term sustainability.

Environment

When Rama had an Enviormental group , which i was chair of. We were looking  at ways of saving our Band money in the way of different energy sources. the fire hall and new day care had not been built yet and asked that C&c take into consideration solar panels for energy., for all new buildings. Just common scenes, We also wanted by-laws to protect our wetlands, we wanted community composting, and  recycling program that would have made money not cost us would have created jobs and add much more life time to the landfill. When i walk around Rama at night i see empty buildings with lights on and we are heating these buildings .The  Environmental group wanted our children to have there own peace garden at the school, to have them compost and  have there own gardens. WE wanted a environment dept, that would look at the impact to the land and water before anything was built .Enviornmental programs in the school and wind power for the community. I left after i realized that i was banging my head against the wall . We did get a recycling program in Rama but one that is failing.

What Are We Doing To Mother Earth

The more parking lots  that are put on OUR land means more  road salt. Which destroys vegetation and trees it poisons are wildlife and destroys  soil. It kills fish and impacts fresh water ecosystem.More and more we are loosing our trees and our sacred plants. Trees are a  source of oxygen and absorb carbon dioxcide a green house gas from the air. They are homes for wildlife  and give us wood ,fruit and medicine. Trees provide shade in the summer reducing heating and cooling cost.    And in the winter keep us warm by shielding us from the wind and snow. The less trees the more flooding. We wanted a natural walking trails at the park and water front . Not roads ,If we are going to plant flowers then plant the ones that should be here.Same for the trees . The walking trails at the water front  have destroyed alot of the medicines and trees. Never mined the cost Lets put our money into replants  trees not big rocks. We need to protected the environment for the next generation.

IT Is The Chippewas Of Rama.

In 1996 the Chippewas of Rama Chief and Council changed the name Rama to Mnjikaning with out consulting the community. The whole matter of our name and who we are has created stress for many, particularly our Elders, who were not   consulted on this change.  We were known as the Ojibwes or Chippewas of Lake Simcoe and Huron. We came into this area in the 1700,s. Our Chief was William Yellowhead (Sr). known as Musquakie ( Mayawassino, Waisoindebay, who died in 1864 aged 95-100yrs. The elder Yellowhead maintaining his alliance to th British was wounded in the war of 1812 defending York (present day Toronto). Four years later at the desire of his father the son, also called William Yellowhead assumed the position of Chief of the Ojibwas of Lake Simcoe and Huron. In the early 1800,s while treaties were signed by Chiefs Yellowhead, Snake and Assance. Yellowheads,s people continued to move around and for a time there was a settlement on Chief Island then known as Yellowhead island. In 1830 the Chippewas of Lakes Simcoe and Huron under Chief Yellowhead, settled at the Narrows(present day Orillia while Chief Snake and his people went to Snake Island and Chief Assance took his people to Coldwater. Under pressure from the non- native government in 1836 surrender of the Narrows now named Orillia took place. With no land base,in 1838 Chief Yellowhead and his people combined their annuity money to purchase 1600 acres on th eastern shore of Lake Couchiching and moved there 1838-1839. The written record calls us the Chippewas of Lakes Simcoe and Huron, and we moved to the eastern shores of Lake Couchiching, present day Rama Reserve located within Rama Township, Simcoe County and Huronia. Our People the Chippewas of Rama worked hard to build a new community on land deemed uninhabitable by the settlers. Our churches, businesses, our sports teams are named after Rama our mail comes to Rama, Rama Road runs through our community.A community survey in2004 found that 151 respondents identified with Rama while 56 preferred Mnjikaning. In  October 2007 a petition with 244 signatures, supporting our name as  chippewas of Rama was submitted to Chief and Council. While Chief and Council could have changed back to Rama via a BCR they decided to have a referendum, on May 23 2008 . The Chippewas of Rama voted to  for the name acquired in th1800,s   by Irene Snache and Cheryle Snache

Anonymity hurts us all

When we post or write letters anonymously, it hurts us all. We realize how difficult it can be, to put yourself out there and put your name to your thoughts and concerns, but it's very important that we start to change the culture of fear of reprecussions. Only when we start putting our names to things, are concerns and issues taken seriously. No one should feel like they have to submit letters anywhere under "Anonymous". No one should have to feel afraid for their jobs or housing situations, or being labeled a trouble maker. It is not making trouble to show concern and stand up for the future of your children and community. It's responsible. We no longer operate our community under the traditional way, where everyone gets a say on important decisions. No, we operate our government under the Indian Act, which promotes distrust and breeds corruption. If we no longer have a say at the table then it's up to us to SPEAK UP about our concerns. How else are they going to get addressed? Before anyone gossips or labels anyone else a trouble maker, please consider where that comes from. Is labelling or gossiping a part of our culture or is it something we've adopted since we no longer govern ourselves traditionally? Shouldn't the people in the community get to feel like they have more of a say? Wouldn't you want to contribute more and participate more if you felt like your opinion actually mattered to somebody? I just want to encourage people not to write anonymous letters. They get swept under the carpet and ignored, when they should be taken up and addressed. If other people feel the same they can support you. No one can support an Anonymous person, but everyone can and likely WILL support you if you put your name to your concerns. Chances are, you're not the only one who feels that way.

Miigwech

Shawna

Some Things Never Change

Over the past few months i have been reading and repairing the scrapbooks of one of our Elders. I my self have been keeping my own for 30 years. Some thing i can  give my children . After reading what was in the papers the past 50 years it can make you feel happy, sad, and so very proud. We had more community spirit back then a togetherness,  we don't have now. The elections were all ways covered by the local papers. More jobs and homes were the big issues. not transparency and accountability Chiefs were all ways up front gaining the respect of the people. all these years later we still need affordable homes, jobs .  But most important we need to get    that        community spirit back.

Take A Stand

Its time for the people of this First Nation to take a stand and speak out. Its time that the Chief and Council start to listen to the band members. For to long we have been left out  and have not had any in put as to out future, and the future of our children. Why are people afraid to speak out , i here to often that we cant we will loose are jobs, i here to often that they have just given up, and that's sad. It is time for the gag orders to go . You go to a meeting and the council say nothing time to be leaders .Its time for every one to be treated the same, Chief and council are not above us ,there needs to be a balance here. The money that the Band has is the money of all Band members and we should have a say in how it is spent not after the fact.We should have a say in what we want but you must speak out .Look at the big picture and think of your children what do you want for them if we don't what kind of life will they have here?

And here's Today's WTF

Article published in Orillia's Packet & Times newspaper, on Saturday March 12, 2011:
Rama First Nation feeling the pinch
Rama First Nation is tightening its belt in hopes of weathering the global economic downturn that has now reached its doorstep, says Chief Sharon Stinson Henry.  At a mandatory staff meeting held at the MASK arena in late February, Stinson Henry announced cost-saving measures all band employees would be required to follow.  Vacation time will be capped, sick time reduced and cost-of-living raises abandoned.  Stinson Henry said chief and council had led by example by taking a 10% pay cut.  She also announced a "voluntary resignation program" for current employees where they could resign in exchange for three weeks of pay per year of service.  "Everybody just sat there and nobody said anything," band member Jennifer Jewell said of the audience's reaction.  "Where did our money go?  It didn't really make any sense."  Jewell, who works occasionally at the Gathering Place stores in Casino Rama, said staff were told the economy and Rama's loss of the 35% Casino Rama revenue case were to blame for the financial crunch. 
Some band members would like to have more say
"What prompted it quite frankly was the downturn in the global economy that is affecting not only Rama First Nation but all governments at every level," Stinson Henry said Friday.  The six-term chief also noted the loss of the 35% Casino Rama revenue case having a strong impact on Rama.  A portion of the band's money comes from Casino Rama, a lucrative resort casino established on the reserve in 1996.  In a 20-year agreement inked between Casino Rama and the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation in January 2010, the Chippewas of Rama were allotted a 1.9% share of gross revenues from the casino starting August 2011.
In the first year of the new agreement, Rama First Nation's cut will be approximately $8.8 million, up from $5.8 million under the old arrangement.  But in July 2010, Rama's appeal to the Supreme Court of Canada to receive 35% of Casino Rama's revenue in perpetuity was denied, meaning $180 million held in escrow was released to other First Nations.  Cheryle Snache, who manages Rama's food bank, said the root of the problem goes beyond the economy and the 35% casino revenue loss.  "I think that they've always had the attitude that the pot was never going to run dry," Snache said.  Expensive salaries, bad investments, costly severance packages, travel expenses, and even clothing allowances are the problem, she said.  "All those things, I think, are unnecessary," Snache said.  "I don't think that kind of stuff should happen.  We need to be investing in the community needs."  Both Jewell and Snache would like better communication between chief and council and band members on financial issues.  Jewell said they do receive financial updates regularly, but there is little opportunity for discussion on solutions.  "I think communication always plays a good role in solving problems.  Better communication, not just one way where we're getting information - we want to be involved," she said.  Chief and council do hold semi-annual financial reporting meetings where they present audited financial statements to their members, Stinson Henry noted.  The next meeting will take place in April.  Snache agrees that community members should have more say in possible cost-saving measures.  "On- and off-(reserve) members have good ideas on what we should be doing with our money, but we're not listened to.  Maybe if we had been listened to, things would have been different."  Feedback from the February staff meeting has been good, Stinson Henry said, adding that the response for the voluntary resignation program has been very positive.  She could not say how many people applied for the buyout.  "Rama is in a good position.  We're just being fiscally responsible here looking into the future," she said.

By Doug Cuthand, Special to The StarPheonix March 11, 2011

For the past month or two we have been watching the ongoing phenomenon of the relentless march of democracy.We are currently watching the change occur in the Middle East. We have witnessed earlier South America and parts of Africa move from army strongmen to the legitimacy of elected leaders. While the march toward democracy is becoming a worldwide movement, in Canada we are now pathetically out of step. Our House of Commons has been reduced to a shouting match, and the Prime Minister's Office is turning Canada toward one-man rule. First Nations governments in Canada actually are no better. They, too, have power concentrated in the hands of a few who meddle and micro-manage every aspect of reserve life. The time has come to move from the vague concept of self-government to a more tightly defined First Nations democracy. Up to now, First Nations elites have pushed for self-government. The Department of Indian Affairs, a.k.a. the Colonial Office, has been happy to oblige by transferring to the First Nations governments its problems and underfunded programs. This is not self-government. It's self-administration. This form of neo-colonialism is so obvious that it jumps out at you. It's a colonial regime's way of ditching a problem and blaming the victim. Technically Africa has self-government. The colonial powers left, and dumped all the problems on the local governments. Today, they wash their hands of responsibility and smugly blame the victims. First Nations governments in Canada fell victim to the same strategy. Indian Affairs dumped self-administration on First Nations, and transformed Indian governments into Indian agents. This is not true democracy. Band councils control reserves, appoint school boards, and run and micro-manage business development. Every aspect of life on a reserve has the band council's fingerprints all over it. The same holds for the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations. Operational boards run by chiefs should be turned over to experts; meanwhile, chiefs should sit on policy boards, which is closer to their role. Historically it was necessary to stress the role of the chief and council. Following the troubles of 1885, many of the bands that allegedly were involved weren't allowed to have a chief. In the case of the Beardy's band, it was without a chief until the 1930s. Indian Affairs ran the show, and the chiefs and councils had virtually no legitimacy. Part of the political organizing process included the strengthening of the office of the chief and council. As a result, all the political leadership on a reserve comes from the chief and council. In spite of this perceived power and self-government, the Colonial Office still wields power through administrative blackmail and third-party management. The chiefs must bow to accountability to Indian Affairs, at the expense of accountability to their people. Using underfunded budgets and stretched resources, band councils find themselves doing INAC's dirty work. Virtually nothing is developed on a reserve today without the blessing or direct control of the band council. Councils decide the makeup of the school board, appoint and fire trustees, and micro-manage all the band's businesses and activities.
I remember going to a hockey tournament once and finding three band councillors coaching the team. I asked if there wasn't anything they didn't manage. It was a joke, but you get the point. Because band councils have taken on so much responsibility, we end up with a low success rate. Micro-managed businesses tend to fail. Politics mixed in with the education system is a recipe for disaster, and independent bodies such as boards of trustees are viewed with suspicion. The time has come to put the band councils in their place. They can't be all things to all band members. A line has to be drawn, and it's doubtful that it will be done voluntarily. The responsibility to run things must be spread around with independent school boards, health boards and independent business development. The role of government in the economy is to create a positive climate for business to succeed, not to run businesses into the ground. First Nations can get involved in business the same way other governments in Canada do -by creating a "Crown corporation" to implement public policy. When a project or opportunity is too big for an individual company, then the band council should get involved and make the project work. But it has to stay away from day-to-day decision making. In Saskatchewan, the government owns the electric utility, the telephone system and an insurance company, but it keeps an armslength distance from their daily operations. The government provides overall direction, but that's it. Our future success depends on an attitudinal shift by our leaders, including local chiefs and councils, tribal councils and the FSIN. So far the current approach has almost cost us the loss of the First Nations University of Canada. What will be the next crisis? It's time that we looked beyond self-government to First Nations democracy.



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Time to adopt democracy for First Nations

Time to adopt democracy for First Nations

Rama FN Members call for audit amid financial crunch despite casino

TORONTO-Members of the Chippewas of Rama First Nation, home to a lucrative casino, are calling for a forensic audit or RCMP probe after learning their community faces a cash crunch.  In an open letter obtained by The Canadian Press - titled "Where did all the money go?" - they say they do not understand what happened to millions of dollars in casino revenues.  "This reserve is in trouble," the letter signed by "Worried Band Members" states.  "How is this possible?"  In a 20-minute speech two weeks ago, Chief Sharon Stinson Henry stunned a community forum when she said the 1,500-member band was feeling the global economic downturn.  All band employees would forgo cost-of-living raises, see vacation time capped, and sick time slashed, Stinson Henry said.  She also announced a buyout plan in which employees could resign in exchange for three weeks of pay per year of service.  "It was just silence," band member Jennifer Jewell said of the reaction at the forum.  "There was no chance to ask questions in front of everybody.  I think there was a fear that the meeting could have got out of hand with people getting upset."  In a leaflet, the band administration explained it had to "significantly" reduce spending, and that layoffs might be necessary if cost cutting fell short.  In an interview Wednesday, Stinson Henry rejected suggestions of a fiscal crisis, saying the community was "in great shape."  The six-term refused to discuss budget figures but said a pending decline in casino revenues has prompted "a good hard look" at the fiscal future.  "We want to operate on a balanced budget," the six-term chief said.  "That's just exactly what we're doing."  She would not say how many of the 400 band employees had applied for a buyout nor how many council was hoping to grant in an effort to trim the band's estimated $24-million payroll.  Feedback to the proposed measures was "very positive," she added.  Over the past 15 years, the casino has raked in about $5.5 billion in gross revenues and profits of a $1.5 billion, with a sizable part of net revenues going to the band.  "Since the casino opened in 1996, it has generated hundreds of millions of dollars for our community," the open letter states.  "Yet now we have nothing to show for it."  The letter questions whether fraudulent activity had occurred.   Jewell, who works occasionally in reserve stores, said she supported the call for a forensic probe.  "They mismanaged our funds and they're blaming it on the economy," she said.  Stinson Henry said the financial statements were audited annually and available to band members.  Some Rama members said they were afraid to speak out for fear of being ostracized but Cheryle Snache, who manages the reserve food bank, blamed the financial crunch in part on failed business ventures.  She also criticized general salaries and perks along with severance packages for council members.  "It just been mismanagement of funds, band investments, all these high-paying wages," Snache said.  The chief did announce that she and the six council members, who each make more than $100,000, would take a 10 per cent pay cut as part of the austerity drive.  In 2008, the Ontario government looked into about $3 million in payments Casino Rama had made to a First Nation that did not officially exist.  In addition, millions that were meant to help lift First Nations out of poverty went to legal fees and other expenses.
THE CANADIAN PRESS.

Sharon Henry offers Rama employees BUY OUTS!! WTF?

At the MASK gym, a meeting was called on the Territory of the Chippewas of Rama. for Tuesday, February 22, 2011 at 10am at the MASK gym in Rama.  It was a cold, dull, gloomy day which seemed to fit the mood of the people.

Community members thought they were commemorating George Washington's Birthday which is Feb. 22nd.  However, a deadening silence came over the entire room as the Chief informed all band employees that she was having contractions, no, the world's economy is contracting.  She proceeded by stating that as she has become leaner, so should Rama.  The following will be effective April 1st:

1. no more cost of living
2. vacation time is capped at 12% (6 weeks max. vacation)
3. sick time calculated at a rate of 1.9% down from 5% (5 days down from the 13)

In a poor attempt to lead by example, Chief and Council have taken a 10% pay cut, and less travel allowance, no dollar amounts were given.  Sorry, no where near enough. 

Suggestions for ways to save money in each Department will be accepted at a suggestion box at the band office and other locations.  It is a little too late for Chief and Council to ask for suggestions on how to save their asses now. 

And then came the punch line, an offer of 3 weeks for every year of service for any voluntary resignations.  Applications are due March 4th and decisions will be made by March 22nd. 

If members had any questions, they were to go upstairs for one on one discussions with members of Chief and Council about the voluntary resignation packages.

Reasons why this is happening, we lost the 35% case, more members are coming due to the McGyver case, and the global economy.  At least we can sleep, after receiving the Chiefs assurance that we are isolated and protected from the harsh outside world.

New Series on APTN hits close to home

"Leadership is about submission to duty~not elevation to power"

Special Chiefs Assembly Resolution #50/2010 - First Nation Governments Demonstrating Accountability

SPECIAL CHIEFS ASSEMBLY
DECEMBER 14, 15 & 16, 2010, Gatineau, QC                             Resolution no. 50/2010

Title:              First Nation Governments Demonstrating Accountability
Subject:         Accountability
Moved by:    Grand Chief Doug Kelly, Proxy, Soowahlie First Nation, British  Columbia
Seconded by: Chief Paul Eshkakogan, Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation, Ontario
Decision:        Carried by Consensus

WHEREAS:

1. Misperceptions and inaccurate information regarding the accountability of First Nations governments continue to be perpetrated among policy makers, in Parliament and the Senate, and through the media.
2. The Auditor General has noted on numerous occasions that First Nations government reporting greatly exceeds that of comparable institutions.
3. First Nations provide a minimum of 168 different financial reports to the four major funding departments (INAC, Health Canada, HRSDC and CMHC), INAC alone receives over 60,000 reports from First Nations annually.
4. Many First Nations have adopted clear professional standards, including ISO certification.
5. The level of disclosure of First Nation governments often is greater than that of other elected representatives, particularly Members of Parliament.
6. Bill C-575:  First Nations Fiscal Transparency Act is both unnecessary and heavy handed:

               Unnecessary as First Nations are already required to report on matters covered in the bill  

               through contribution agreements with the federal government;

               Heavy-handed in that enforcement provisions enable costly and unnecessary legal proceedings

               wherein the Minister is authorized to apply to superior court for enforcement which will serve to

               only further exasperate an already adversarial relationship.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Chiefs-in-Assembly:

1. Re-affirm their commitment to maintaining transparent and accountable decision-making structures in their communities.
2. Confirm that their primary reporting and accountability relationship is to their citizens, and that they will design mechanisms to ensure open and informed involvement in community decision-making.
3. Choose to lead by example and demonstrate to other orders of government processes for accountability, including:

                 Providing clear and timely access to audits and public accounts;

                 Itemizing and publicly disclosing salaries, honoraria and expenses associated with the

                 operations of Chief & Council;

                 Ensuring information about community finances and decision-making is easily accessible, and

                 available via the internet where applicable.

     4.  Direct Canada to work with First Nations in the genuine interest of accountability and support joint

          efforts towards the development of specific First Nation governance institutional capacity such as a

          First Nations ombudsperson and/or Auditor-General function as mandated and advanced by the

          Assembly of First Nation and Chiefs-in-Assembly in 2006.

Certified copy of a resolution adopted on the 14th day of December, 2010 in Gatineau, Quebec

SHAWN A-IN-CHUT ATLEO, NATIONAL CHIEF

(see Assembly of First Nations website for more information on Special Chiefs Assembly).

A message From A Concerned Elder

1. Enendamaan _ What I Think.

New Rules for Open Council Meetings

The following notice is in the January 2011 issue of the Ojibway Times.

A message from Chief and Council Regarding OPEN COUNCIL MEETINGS.
Chief and Council provide regular updates and opportunities for community members to discuss issues and concerns in an open forum.  We are proud of our record of transparency and will continue to provide information and updates in a timely manner.

Regular community meetings are held in addition to those which address specific matters such as the Chippewa Tri-Council Coldwater Narrows Land Claim negotiations, Casino Rama Post 2011, Financial Reporting, update meetings and other important matters.  We are responsive to community concerns and endeavour to provide timely public consultation/information sessions.

Monthly evening Open Council meetings have been held regularly on the last Monday in the month, except during the summer, over the past ten years but have recorded low participation.  These meetings will continue in 2011 with the following changes:

• Open Council meeting will not be held in the same month as a Community Meeting enabling Council to devote the appropriate time and resources to community-wide meeting presentations.
• Agenda items for any Open Council meetings should be submitted in writing to Dan Shilling, First Nation Manager, or Annette Sharpe, Executive Assistant to Chief and Council one-week ahead of an Open Council Meeting.  If there are no submissions, a meeting will not be held.  Tom communicate notices, we will post written notification at locations in the community, on the website and facebook page.

Community members will be notified about submission of agenda items in the Ojibway Times, posting in the community, website and facebook.

Members of Chief and Council continue to be available for individual consultations with community members.  Please contact us at (705) 325-3611 or 1-866-854-2121.

Rama Finance Meeting Nov. 2010

Chippewas of Rama Community Finance Meeting, Held Thursday, November 25, 2010 at the MASK Community Room.

Rick Morano, Rama's Chief Financial Officer presented an overview of the actual 2010 audited financial statements for Rama.  Visual projection of the audit pages were provided for everyone to see.

Anna Petrick Pollard asked Rick Morano why Chief and Council's salaries were not listed by each individual Chief and Council member.  The amount shown in the statement was a lump sum of Chief and Council and some staff members.  Rick said that he only has to provide this break down of salaries in the Spring.  Anna proceeded to ask what the salaries were and that we have a right to know because this is a finance meeting.  Rick said we will see that amount in the Spring.  Another question was asked by another member with regard to meeting costs.  Then Anna asked what Rick's salary was.  Rick did not want to answer that question.  Anna asked again what Rick's salary was.  He said it was $200,000.  Anna said that if we cut his salary in half, we could save $100,000 right there.  Nancy Bishop said that wasn't going to happen.  Rick agreed by saying it wasn't going to happen.  Anna said Rick got a little defensive there.  Rick agreed and said he doesn't like answering stupid questions.  Anna said it wasn't a stupid question.  Rick said that it is a stupid question when he already answered that question to Anna in the band office on an earlier date.  Anna then commented that the people in the room didn't hear his answer.  Rick said he wasn't going to make it personal and proceeded to continue on with the presentation.  Dan Shilling, First Nation Manager, then said "This is an audit".

Also, Cheryle Snache asked why Chief and Council do not implement cost saving measures such as solar panels and windmills on Ship Island.  The cost of hydro could be reduced for our buildings and community members.  Rick stated that anyone is welcome to provide a report for their review outlining the proposal for energy reduction.  Cheryle said she asks this question every year and nothing is ever done.  If a public school student can come up with a plan, then surely the hightly paid employees of Rama could come up with a plan. 

Also, Ron York asked why does Rama continue to operate retail businesses / stores at Casino Rama if they are not making much money?  We cannot just keep stores open to provide people with jobs.  Rick said well we might have one store that maybe making money.  Ron asked "Maybe making money?"  and Rick agreed.

Also, Ron York asked what Rama is paying for insurance on the pool at Black River Park.  Rick said $7000 a year.  Ron asked why are we paying for insurance when the pool is empty and not being used.

Lisa Ewanchuk asked why does Rama not utilize technology more to reduce the costs for paper and meeting expenses.  Rick said he tried to do this with the electronic software, Saperion, but people did not want to use it.  So, now another program is going to be implemented.

Nancy Bishop asked why we are paying $21,000 in bank fees in 2010.  Rick said he complains about this every year as well to the bank.  It costs the band $450 for every payroll we run through the bank.