Coronavirus: What’s happening in Canada and around the world on Monday
March 29, 2021
Stricter public health measures come into force in two Ontario regions today as the province continues ramping up its vaccine drive. Hamilton is going into the strictest grey-lockdown phase of Ontario’s pandemic response plan today, while the Eastern Ontario Health Unit enters the second-strictest red zone. But as of today, those who live in grey zones will be able to attend fitness classes outdoors. Premier Doug Ford made that announcement Friday, when he also revealed that hair salons and other personal care services will be able to reopen in grey zones on April 12.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/coronavirus-covid19-canada-world-march29-2021-1.5967836
Ontario reports nearly 2,100 new COVID-19 cases as positivity rate hits highest level in more than two months
March 29, 2021
Ontario is reporting more than 2,000 new cases of COVID-19 for the fifth straight day as the province’s positivity rate surges to the highest level seen in more than two months.
Positive COVID case at Nipissing First Nation business
March 29, 2021
Nipissing First Nation (NFN) is advising the public that an individual working at a local business has tested positive for COVID-19.
https://www.baytoday.ca/local-news/positive-covid-case-at-nipissing-first-nation-business-3584237
Six Nations residents 18 and older can get Moderna vaccine
March 28, 2021
COVID-19 vaccine bookings are now open for everyone 18 years of age and older in Six Nations of the Grand River. The territory said on Sunday it received 6,000 doses of the Moderna vaccine and can accept people who book an appointment.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/hamilton/six-nations-moderna-vaccine-1.5967505
Pop-up clinic offers COVID-19 vaccine to Indigenous people in Midland
March 26, 2021
A pop-up clinic offered the COVID-19 vaccine to Indigenous people Friday at the North Simcoe Sports and Recreation Centre in Midland. The health unit is working with local Indigenous services to provide the vaccine to First Nations, Inuit and Métis individuals in Simcoe Muskoka.
Vaccines still available for Indigenous population, Sudbury health centre says
March 26, 2021
The Shkagamik–Kwe Health Centre in Sudbury is hoping more indigenous people in the city over 18 years of age will sign up to get a vaccine. Out of 4,800 vaccines, 1,200 have been booked so far. Indigenous populations have been identified as a priority group in Ontario vaccine rollout.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/sudbury/shkagamik-kwe-health-centre-vaccination-clinics-1.5965417
Ontario lowers minimum age for vaccines in 10 more regions
March 28, 2021
Ontario is lowering the minimum age for COVID-19 vaccines in 10 more public health units. As of Monday morning, people born in 1951 and earlier can use the provincial system to book their shots in the regions, which include Hamilton, Grey Bruce, Peel and Ottawa.
https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-lowers-minimum-age-for-vaccines-in-10-more-regions-1.5366026
Magnetawan First Nation protest organizer receives $880 COVID law fine
March 29, 2021
The Anishinabek Police Service has confirmed officers laid a charge against a resident of Magnetawan First Nation, north of Parry Sound, for violating COVID-19 laws during a protest on the territory Feb. 25. That is according to Insp. Barry Petahtegoose, director of operations for the service’s south region, which covers Magnetawan, Shawanaga and Wasauksing First Nations.
Fort William First Nation lifts curfew
March 28, 2021
Fort William First Nation has lifted a curfew imposed earlier this month in the face of rising COVID-19 cases, with only a handful remaining active. The First Nation’s chief and council made the decision to lift the curfew and extend business hours as of Thursday, said Chief Peter Collins in an update to the community.
https://www.tbnewswatch.com/local-news/fort-william-first-nation-lifts-curfew-3583640
Vaccine safety in Canada: What you should know
March 28, 2021
It has been yet another productive week on the vaccine front in Canada, as close to 1.4 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines arrived in Canada, and roll-out continues to ramp up across the country. It seems fitting that as the first signs of spring emerge around us, and the days get longer, there is more hope and optimism to fill the air.
Ottawa blames retired senator, survivors for undermining trust in residential school compensation system
March 29, 2021
The federal government blames the comments of survivors and public officials, including retired senator Murray Sinclair, who chaired the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, for undermining faith in the residential school compensation process, according to a legal filing obtained by CBC News.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/indigenous/ottawa-stannes-legal-compensation-1.5965483
Residential school survivors rebuff federal offer to review St. Anne’s documents
March 26, 2021
The survivors of St. Anne’s Residential school are rejecting Canada’s offer of an independent review of their abuse claims. Leo Ashamock is a board member with Peetabeck Keway Keykaywin Association Board, which means Fort Albany Back to Healing.
Mamakwa encouraged by clean water funding
March 29, 2021
Residents across the Kenora and Kiiwetinoong ridings will have access to clean water for potentially the first time in their homes, after $33 million was pledged for water treatment plant upgrades and repairs across northwestern Ontario last week.
https://www.drydennow.com/local/mamakwa-encouraged-by-clean-water-funding
Next steps laid out for Nishnawbe Aski Nation’s health transformation during virtual chief’s assembly
March 27, 2021
Transforming and improving the First Nations healthcare system within the Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) was top of mind during NAN’s virtual chiefs assembly this past week. The two days were full of discussions about Indigenous health legislation and governance, the development of a community-based paramedics program within the 49 NAN First Nations and the signing of relationship accords with a number of healthcare organizations that provide services across the north.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/thunder-bay/nan-health-transformation-chiefs-assembly-1.5966416
Rally builds call for compensation for Grassy Narrows
March 28, 2021
A virtual rally is being held by Grassy Narrows First Nation Saturday to demand full compensation for everyone in the community to address the ongoing human and cultural costs of mercury poisoning.
https://www.tbnewswatch.com/local-news/rally-builds-call-for-compensation-for-grassy-narrows-3582638
Opinion: Five years later, justice finally comes to Boushie’s family – Niigaan Sinclair
March 28, 2021
There was no justice for Colten Boushie during the trial of Gerald Stanley in early 2018. A Saskatchewan jury found Stanley not guilty of second-degree murder or manslaughter, after a gun he was holding “just went off” and killed the 22-year-old Cree man during a 2016 encounter on Stanley’s farm.
New study suggests growing concerns of young First Nations people becoming victims of human trafficking in southwestern Ontario
March 29, 2021
First Nations people are more and more frequently becoming victims of human trafficking (HT) in southwestern Ontario, according to a new study.
NADF and Futurpreneur Setting up Youth for Success as Entrepreneurs
March 26, 2021
Reaching your dream to be your own boss for youth takes some help. For youth today, the Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund and Futurpreneur Canada have partnered up to be the bridge forward toward success.
First Nation and junior mining company reach exploration accord
March 26, 2021
Aroland First Nation and junior miner Silver Spruce Resources have signed an agreement to approve of exploration activities in northwestern Ontario.
Toronto Indigenous organizer Millie Redmond never lost her power to astonish
March 28, 2021
The young man could not believe his eyes. It was Grandma Millie in ill-fitting second-hand clothes, sitting on a piece of cardboard and begging for change on the streets of Winnipeg, Man. How did this happen and, more importantly, how was she going to make it?
Thunder Bay university to launch Indigenous Law and Justice Institute
March 28, 2021
Lakehead University’s Bora Laskin Faculty of law will be receiving up to $437,000 in funding to launch an Indigenous Law and Justice Institute. The Maamawi Bimosewag — They Walk Together Institute will expand the university’s current law program and advance collaboration and curriculum innovation in Indigenous Law at Bora Laskin Faculty of Law, according to a news release issued by the university this week.
‘Everything we’ve done has been framed by COVID’: Niagara Native centre director
March 29, 2021
Even with uncertainty brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, the doors have remained open at the Niagara Regional Native Centre.
How universities can support Indigenous online learners in the COVID-19 pandemic
March 29, 2021
As the second wave of the pandemic wears on, Indigenous students are facing challenges. At Athabasca University, we conducted a study to learn how Indigenous students at our university are doing with online learning in the pandemic. Our colleagues Martin Connors, professor of space sciences/physics and Barbara Reis, a master of education student, were part of our research team.
Carleton University needs to talk about renaming of building linked to Inuit relocation, student says
March 28, 2021
Carleton University is renaming three campus buildings as part of its commitment to Indigenous reconciliation and the fight against anti-Black racism, but at least one student also wants the school to raise awareness about why the move is important.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/carleton-university-renaming-robertson-hall-1.5964267
U of T researchers survey Indigenous communities about COVID-19 experiences
March 26, 2021
When Canada shut its borders to stem the flow of COVID-19 last year, people continued to cross freely into Indigenous communities in Ontario and B.C. by water – mingling with residents who had scarce access to masks or even clean water for hand washing.
In memoriam: Wiki’s Donald Odjig Fisher led by example in receiving region’s first COVID-19 shot
March 26, 2021
When you live a life like Donald ‘Scotty’ Odjig Fisher did, the memories you leave behind are only a part of your legacy. The first recipient of a COVID-19 vaccine in Northeastern Ontario passed away Feb. 27 at the age of 94.
Not in the past: Colonialism is rooted in the present
March 28, 2021
At a press conference on March 9 after Oprah Winfrey’s interview with Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was asked about his commitment to the monarchy and, in particular, whether it sat uncomfortably beside his stated desire to “dismantle colonialism in this country.”
https://ca.news.yahoo.com/not-past-colonialism-rooted-present-133913444.html
Assembly Of First Nations Welcomes Supreme Court Ruling On Carbon Pricing Legislation
March 28, 2021
Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Perry Bellegarde welcomes yesterday’s Supreme Court of Canada decision on the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act, urging all levels of government to respect First Nations rights, title, and jurisdiction and responsibilities to traditional territories in its implementation.
Man acquitted of killing Tina Fontaine arrested in Ottawa
March 26, 2021
Raymond Joseph Cormier has been arrested by Ottawa police for allegedly breaking into several apartment buildings since January. Police allege Cormier “targeted apartments, parking garages, mail and storage rooms” across four different locations in the downtown area.
https://www.aptnnews.ca/national-news/man-acquitted-of-killing-tina-fontaine-arrested-in-ottawa/
Kanesatake to vaccinate Micmac community members in ‘inter-nation solidarity’
March 27, 2021
In what local leaders call a “gesture of inter-nation solidarity,” Kanesatake will vaccinate members of the Micmac Nation of Gespeg, a First Nations community more than 800 kilometres away.
First Nations chief wants transparency on PPE deals
March 27, 2021
A Saskatchewan First Nation chief wants the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations to present a report on how it’s been spending federal dollars on personal protective equipment.
https://thestarphoenix.com/news/saskatchewan/first-nations-chief-wants-transparency-on-ppe-deals
Saskatchewan, Canada pen agreement to deliver vaccines to First Nations
March 26, 2021
First Nations in Saskatchewan can expect regular shipments of COVID-19 vaccines in the coming weeks, after the provincial and federal governments penned an agreement to coordinate vaccine delivery.
https://globalnews.ca/news/7722806/saskatchewan-first-nations-covid-19-vaccine/
Mi’kmaw tiny-home builders hoping to tackle Indigenous housing crisis
March 28, 2021
A Mi’kmaw uncle-nephew duo are making tiny homes in the hopes of addressing crowded Indigenous households and the lack of adequate Indigenous housing in New Brunswick and communities across Canada.
Poundmaker chief ‘will do whatever it takes’ for the First Nation to get its own police force
March 29, 2021
Poundmaker Cree Nation wants to create its own police force to combat what its leadership calls a war on drugs.
The band council declared a state of emergency on March 24 and passed a resolution to kick people off the First Nation if they are involved in drug crimes.
Mi’kmaq couple gets global attention from Nike partnership
March 28, 2021
A couple from Millbrook First Nation is bringing Mi’kmaq culture to the global stage, while giving back to their own community in the process. Cheyenne Isaac-Gloade and Garrett Gloade have been working on a collaboration with Nova Scotia-born director Andy Hines since the couple contributed to his video for fellow Nova Scotian rapper Classified’s song “Powerless” in 2018.
FCC sees opportunities for Indigenous agriculture
March 28, 2021
Farm Credit Canada (FCC) is building a foundation of knowledge to better understand and support Indigenous communities and entrepreneurs to grow and thrive in Canada’s agriculture and food industry.
http://www.netnewsledger.com/2021/03/29/fcc-sees-opportunities-for-indigenous-agriculture/
‘Those objects have a power’: Descendant of Chief Poundmaker working to repatriate his belongings
March 27, 2021
A descendant of Chief Poundmaker is working with Poundmaker Cree Nation’s museum to repatriate his items from around the country. “Most of Chief Poundmaker’s objects were taken under duress, if not stolen,” said Floyd Favel, curator at the Chief Poundmaker Museum.
New Indigenous media lab at University of Winnipeg to help creators combine art and technology
March 28, 2021
The director of a new Indigenous media lab at the University of Winnipeg envisions it as a community hub for many of the up-and-coming and established artists who call the city home. “When I look at artists globally and nationally, we’re leading the way in terms of digital new media artwork,” said Julie Nagam, director of Aabijijiwan New Media Lab.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/indigenous/aabijijiwan-media-lab-winnipeg-1.5966433
Mi’kmaw artists use Nike high-tops to bring beadwork to next generation
March 28, 2021
The past stepped into the present amid piles of beads in Millbrook First Nation this weekend. Mi’kmaw artists Cheyenne Isaac-Gloade and husband Garrett Gloade welcomed young people into a beading workshop on Saturday.
‘Stunning’ Qaumajuq Inuit art centre opens to public acclaim
March 28, 2021
When she walked into Qaumajuq on Saturday, Tricia Richardson said she felt like she was witnessing history. It was the first day the Winnipeg Art Gallery’s new Inuit Art Centre — whose name means “it is bright, it is lit” in Inuktitut — opened its doors to the public.
From the Ivy League to inspiring Indigenous youth, Devin Buffalo sets his own path
March 28, 2021
After the national anthem, hockey goalie Devin Buffalo would glance at the words nâpehkâsoweyinew on his helmet and read them out loud. It closely translates to “a younger warrior or brave” in Cree. “That’s how I would start every game and I think that’s how I navigate life too,” Buffalo said.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/devin-buffalo-waniska-athletics-1.5964861
Meet Stephanie Scott, new head of the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation
March 28, 2021
For the first time the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation in Winnipeg will be lead by an Indigenous woman. Stephanie Scott officially stepped into the role of executive director earlier this month after serving as acting director since last fall.
Curators ‘raise up’ LGBTQ2 artists featured in Qaumajuq’s opening exhibit in Winnipeg
March 27, 2021
A commitment to showcase diversity is at the heart of the Winnipeg Art Gallery’s new addition, Qaumajuq, the world’s largest public collection of Inuit art — and that includes highlighting a range of works by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and two-spirit creators from the north.
Apply now to CBC New Indigenous Voices to build your media career
March 27, 2021
The National Screen Institute – Canada is now accepting applications for the 2021 edition of CBC New Indigenous Voices – a program for emerging Indigenous creators to build their media careers through online training and hands-on experience.
‘White Lives Matter’ signs appear in Saskatchewan after Boushie report released
March 26, 2021
A number of “White Lives Matter” signs were put up in North Battleford soon after the Civilian Review and Compliants Commission for the RCMP issued its report on how police treated the family of Colten Boushie after he was killed.
Court Confirms New Brunswick Must Share Tax Revenue with Maliseet First Nations
March 25, 2021
Shared tax revenues are an increasingly important source of revenue for many First Nations to fund key services like education and social services. A New Brunswick Court of Queen’s Bench decision has strengthened the ability of the Maliseet First Nations to rely on this income by confirming that the tax-revenue sharing agreements require New Brunswick to share carbon tax revenues with the Maliseet. OKT acted for the six Maliseet First Nations in the case.
https://www.oktlaw.com/maliseet-win-new-brunswick-tax-case/
Chiefs in Alberta say a year after the arrest of Allan Adam, nothing has been done
March 26, 2021
It’s been nearly one year since the violent arrest of Athabasca Chipewyan Chief Allan Adam and First Nations leaders say they’re still waiting for action to be taken against the RCMP officers involved.
Indigenous hypnotist empowers First Nation youth to follow their dreams
March 26, 2021
You’re getting sleepy. Very very sleepy. Close your eyes. Count to ten…
These are the words you might think of when talk of hypnosis comes up — perhaps with your grandfather’s old chained pocket watch swinging in front of your face.
https://ca.news.yahoo.com/indigenous-hypnotist-empowers-first-nation-212403583.html
Succeed in life:’ Twins want to pave way for aspiring Indigenous hockey players
March 26, 2021
Jordyn and Kyla Bear have something to say to the next Indigenous generation who want to follow in their footsteps in hockey — they’re only a phone call away.
Narrative map on a bison hide tells the tale of the Calgary Stampede in a new way
March 27, 2021
The story of the Calgary Stampede is being told in a new way — by being mapped on a bison hide. Adrian Stimson, a Blackfoot artist, tells the Stampede story from a First Nations perspective with a new exhibit that was unveiled at the Glenbow Museum during an online event Friday night.
C-92 child services transition from feds to First Nations ‘frustrating as hell’
March 26, 2021
The Splatsin band of the Secwepemc Nation wants other First Nations to experience the success they have had in exercising jurisdiction over their child and family services.
Freda Huson: An Indigenous ‘warrior’ for the next generation
March 29, 2021
Freda Huson starts each day with prayer in the quiet of the mountain forest where she lives in a small two-room wooden cabin. She prays for the safeguarding of her lands and waterways and then thanks her ancestors for preserving her Wet’suwet’en traditional territories.
Indigenomics: Taking a Seat at the Economic Table
March 26, 2021
A new book from a highly regarded Indigenous business leader just hit the shelves and we want to unpack it a little bit with the help of the author.
https://omny.fm/shows/the-simi-sara-show/indigenomics-taking-a-seat-at-the-economic-table
B.C. mining laws raise questions as province looks to implement UN declaration
March 29, 2021
The relationships between Indigenous nations and British Columbia’s mining sector are set to change as the province works to match its laws with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Mining Minister Bruce Ralston says B.C.’s “formal relations” with Indigenous nations and their participation in the sector are already a “strong asset” for companies and investors considering mineral operations in the province.
https://www.jwnenergy.com/article/2021/3/29/bc-mining-laws-raise-questions-as-province-looks-t/
Indigenous Bloom and Stz’uminus First Nation partner to provide First Nations cannabis opportunities
March 26, 2021
Indigenous Bloom is the Ladysmith area’s newest retail cannabis store. And Stz’uminus First Nation — which owns a 51 percent stake in the location — sees Indigenous Bloom as a prime opportunity for economic growth.
First Nations leaders seek removal of roadblocks in B.C.’s driver’s licensing system
March 26, 2021
Renewed support and action are needed to allow all members of society equitable access to a driver’s licence, according to a discussion paper released Wednesday by the Union of BC Indian Chiefs (UBCIC).
https://ca.news.yahoo.com/first-nations-leaders-seek-removal-205337183.html
Online Tłı̨chǫ language class see enrolment rise during pandemic
March 29, 2021
Inside Yellowknife’s Collège Nordique, Georgina Franki sits in front of a computer screen teaching a virtual language class to a group of students. Like many teachers during the pandemic, there’s been a bit of a learning curve.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/north/tlicho-college-nordique-1.5966552
‘Reawakening their knowledge’: Drum dancing group grows as pandemic restrictions ease
March 28, 2021
The first time Julia Ogina performed in a snow house, or igloo, in 2009, she said she was just learning to become a singer.Now, she leads drum singing and dancing in her community and this year, she was able to bring a group to the 2021 Qaggiq Festival in Iqaluit last weekend. The event took place in a 700-square foot qaggiq where, for two days, it was home to singers, dancers, storytellers and spectators from around Nunavut.
On-the-land program strengthening Gwich’in language in Fort McPherson
March 28, 2021
Anita Koe started to organize an immersive language program for people living in Fort McPherson after her son came home speaking Gwich’in. “I didn’t even understand him,” she told CBC’s Northwind on Wednesday. “He tried asking me something in Gwich’in and I didn’t know how to understand.”
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/north/on-the-land-gwichin-language-program-1.5964249
New First Nations procurement policy stirring controversy in the Yukon
March 28, 2021
Dave Gatensby is a Carcross/Tagish First Nation contractor in Whitehorse, Yukon. Thanks to the territorial government’s new First Nations Procurement Policy (FNPP) which was unveiled late last year, contractors like him will have competitive advantages when bidding for government contracts.
Nunavut’s fishing industry gets $3.2 million for exploration, promotion
March 26, 2021
The federal government is putting $3.2 million into Nunavut’s fisheries. The Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, also known as CanNor, announced the new funding on Thursday. The money will be distributed to six fishing and sealing projects throughout the territory.
Yukon reports first variant case of COVID-19
March 26, 2021
The Yukon is reporting its first two cases of a COVID-19 variant. One case is linked to international travel. The second case is a non-Yukon resident and is connected to an outbreak in another jurisdiction. Both people are in isolation and said to be doing well.
https://www.aptnnews.ca/videos/yukon-reports-first-variant-case-of-covid-19/
UPCOMING EVENTS
Call for artist interpretations/artwork for the Assembly of First Nations 2021 Annual General Assembly
The Chiefs of Ontario Host Committee will be hosting the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) 42nd Annual General Assembly in Toronto in July 2021 and is currently accepting original Indigenous artwork to be submitted. Artwork will be used for materials by the Chiefs of Ontario Host Committee and the AFN in promoting the Assembly. We are seeking artwork that supports and promotes First Nations culture in Ontario.
Chiefs of Ontario Discussion Session on Federal Policing Legislation
Chiefs of Ontario’s Justice Sector is hosting a discussion session on March 29th from 3:00 – 5:00 pm with Leadership and technicians to share preliminary thoughts about a federal policing legislation. Contact Sarah-Grace Ross at sarah-grace.ross@coo.org for more information.
Save the Date: Chiefs of Ontario 47th All Ontario Chiefs Conference 2021
The Chiefs of Ontario and Grand Council Treaty #3 will be hosting the 47th All Ontario Chiefs Conference 2021 on June 15-17, 2021. For the Chiefs of Ontario All Ontario Chiefs Conference (AOCC), please find the 1st Call for Resolutions attached. Deadline for Resolutions is Wednesday, May 26, 2021. For more information, please visit https://www.chiefsmeeting.com/aocc-2021.
Issue 9 of The Official Chiefs of Ontario Magazine, The Advocate is now online!
To view, please click here: https://www.mediaedgemagazines.com/the-chiefs-of-ontario-coo/oo21c/.
International Association for Great Lakes Research (IAGLR) Annual Meeting, May 17-21, 2021
Hosted by Michigan Technological University, the virtual conference will feature four days of scientific sessions and speakers focusing on our theme Bridging: Knowledge, Seven Generations, Land-to-Lake.
For more information and registration, click here: https://bit.ly/3nI8gUh.
Chiefs of Ontario Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates
Find Our Latest Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates Here. This website provides information on emergency planning and preparedness, as well as on the unique programs and services that are available to First Nations in Ontario during times of emergency.
