Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs Up-Date - Issue no. 8 (October, 1984) · UBCIC Periodicals

Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs Up-Date - Issue no. 8 (October, 1984)

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Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs Up-Date - Issue no. 8 (October, 1984)

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1.06-01.07 UBCIC Up-Date

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N UF B.L. INVIA.<« CHIEFS UP-DATE
440 WEST HASTINGS STREET
VANCOUVER, B.C. V6B 1L1
TELEPHONE: (604) 684-0231
TELEX: 04-54220

TO: TRIBAL COUNCILS AND BANDS

FROM: UNION OF B.C. INDIAN CHIEFS

DATE: OCTOBER, 1984

ISSUE NO. 8

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT - Chief Saul Terry: September 27th marked the final
meeting of the Federal Environmental Assessment Review Panel into the effects
of the Canadian National Railway's Twin Track. Project along the enyironmentally
sensitive areas in the Thompson and Fraser River Corridor. The final report of
this review panel will not be completed until January of 1985. However, con-
struction of the double-tracking has already begun, which when completed will
affect seventy reserves and over 7,000 Indian people along its pathway. Until
past grievances over construction of CNR tracks through Indian lands have been
rectified and serious and thorough research and consideration is given to the
future impact upon the lands and resources along the path of this double-tracking
line, the Alliance of Tribal Councils, the Sto:lo, Nl'Akapxm and Shuswap have
demanded a moratorium on such construction. Of deepest concern is the destruc-
tion of fish stocks due to loss of habitat, destruction and loss of reserve
lands, fishing and heritage sites. Yet so much more is involved.

Great fear arises over the destruction of sensitive salmon spawning grounds,
amongst all other issues involved. This is of concern to us all. Indian people
rely greatly on fish. Prior to contact we suffered along with the fish when
they suffered. After contact there began a new and. even greater suffering that
was not brought on by natural causes, but by the invading peoples. I cite such
examples as those disasters brought about for our people during the days of the
Gold Rush in the 1800's when nets were stretched across the Fraser River to
catch the salmon to feed the miners who were in search of their precious metal.
But these nets stopped the salmon from returning up river to their natural
spawning grounds. Our people suffered starvation asa result. Another instance ~-
1s contained within the decisions made in regards to our trade and commerce.
Negative decisions were made by governments. foreign to our Indian Governments --
who held no respect for and no knowledge of Indian traditions or our economies.
As a result, our economies were destroyed, decimated. The collapse of our
traditional economies left the vast majority of Indian people in a state of

such total impoverishment as to leave them victims of wholesale slaughter by
negative statistics. I term these actions and their effects to be "Legislative
Imprisonment" for our people.

There is no question but that the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs supports the
Alliance of Tribal Councils who have requested this moratorium on destruction -

of the environmentally sensitive areas in the Thompson and Fraser River Corridor -
of CNR's Twin Track Project. We point out too that other Indian Nations up-
river and downriver from this construction and the devastating destruction to

our salmon stocks will suffer the consequences: Nations such as the Lillooet,

the Carrier, Chilcotin and Sekani.

Once again will these people along the railway corridor suffer because of
governmental and corporate disrespect for Aboriginal rights and title? If one
suffers amongst uS»we all suffer, and this suffering extends well beyond to
Indian people unrepresented by the Alliance for this moratorium. Upwards of

4 million fish return to spawn annually. Our lives and our economies are
dependent upon them. Besides the CNR Twin Track Project, we are also faced
with such projects as the Kemano II Hydroelectric Completion. Project, the
McGregor River Diversion Project, the proposed Moran Dam above Lillooet--all

of these hang over us and all of them will effect in some way the fish on which
we.depend. Witness the destruction of just one project such as the Bridge
River Diversion to’ Seton Lake in 1959, which brought about the total destruction
of the Bridge River spring salmon run, one of the richest in Canada. How much
more destruction to our fish habitat can we endure? A little variance in fish
habitat here and there,as all these proposals suggest, could very well spell

the extinction for our fish resource.

As President of the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs, I can only say that we all
hope for a change within the Government, corporate and railway mentality so

that they will begin to show respect for the issues and the livelihood of our
people. Up to this point, only disrespect has been shown for us and our
concerns.

MORATORIUM CALLED ON CONSTRUCTION OF CNR'S TWIN TRACK PROJECT: Despite the
fact the final report of the Federal Environmental Assessment Review Panel will
not be issued until early 1985, the Canadian National Railway has already begun
its construction of their Twin Track Project. Due to the dangers of proceeding
with double-tracking through their territory, the Alliance of Tribal Councils,
Sto:lo, Nl'Akapxm and Shuswap, urgently called for a moratorium on construction
during a press conference September 28th, here in Vancouver. During the press
conference Chief Edna Louis of the North Thompson Band explained why they were
requesting the moratorium on construction through the environmentally sensitive
areas in the Thompson and Fraser River Corridor. ~~

"We are requesting a moratorium until our legitimate concerns can be resolved
to our satisfaction," she said. Among some of the concerns raised by the
Alliance about impact to their lands, resources and people, Chief Louis said
were:

Fishing trails and stations

Encroachment on reserve lands

Changes to drainage patterns

Erosion of reserve lands

Noise, vibration, pollution and safety problems
Damage to heritage sites :

Weed and fencing sites

Increased levels of hazardous goods traffic
Changes to salmon migration patterns |
Reduction of salmon population due to habitat loss

Owo mona nk Whe.
e eo

—

"Some studies are presently in progress," Chief Louis continued, "but many
problems being caused by twin tracking have been ignored. For example, the
socio-economic impacts to people have not been seriously considered by CN.
Another very good example was raised in Kamloops. The residents of Brockle-
hurst, Westsyde and Rayleigh objected very strongly to the increased vibration

from the second track in operation. . Their homes and trailers are being quickly siz

destroyed. Their assessed values have decreased. It would be very difficult
to sell their homes or trailers now... Those people are now living with. the ._.
impacts from the twin track project."

The Alliance is stating that in-depth studies are required prior to construc-
tion-- not after and not during construction. The Federal Environmental
Assessment Review Panel, after hearing evidence of the impacts, especially from
vibration, should seriously consider recommending a moratorium as well, the
Chief stated. "These vibrations are related to residences, but what effect do.
these vibrations have on sensitive geological areas, heritage sites and _

the spawning of fish? Is it possible there will be another Hell's Gate slide?
(The Hell's Gate slide took place in 1913 when tunnel construction took place
too close to the river's edge weakening the rock above the river. Great por-
tions of the canyon's edge slid into the river,closing off entirely passage to
thousands of salmon returning to their spawning grounds. Countless hundreds

of thousands of salmon died on the shores at that site until fish ladders

were constructed in 1947).

Alternatives Required:. The Canadian Transport Commission is currently conducting
a study into alternatives to twin tracking, but their report also will not be
completed until early 1985. The Alliance suggests that "Joint Track Usage" of

CN and CP Rail Lines between Kamloops and Mission is one alternative that should

be considered... -It could improve transportation and save the public billions of
dollars.

In addition, the Alliance pointed out that there is no sufficient base line date
on the Department of Fisheries and Oceans' NO NET LOSS Policy regarding fish.
habitat. Sheila Joseph, researcher for the Alliance, explained there has
already been extensive loss of salmon habitat, specifically amongst the Coho
habitat, and very shortly destruction of Spring habitat will occur. The
Department of Fisheries, she said, is operating on the unproven. theory that

they can replace lost habitat. She said, however, there has never been any
proof of success in the Department's theory and they have not even carried out
prior research to substantiate this theory of "NO NET LOSS" to habitat.

nae we Ee a Ea

“Destruction of fish habitat is catastrophic to the returning salmon," Chief
Louis said, and asked, "How can man replace what has taken place for thousands
of years?"

Over thirty-five miles of the CN line passes through Indian Reserves in the
Thompson and Fraser Corridor. CN needs permission from Indian Bands to under-
take much of its project (tunnels, bridges, second track). Unless the concerns
of the Indian people are resolved, the Alliance has stated that this permission
will not be granted.

For further information on the iSsue of Twin-Tracking please contact:
N1'Akapxm - John Sam or Don Barz at 455-2289; North Thompson - Edna Louis at
672-5858; Deadman's Creek - Ron Ignace at 373-2654; Bonaparte - Gerry Etienne
at 457-9624; or Sto:lo Nation - Clarence Pennier at 858-7265; or the Alliance
Researcher - Sheila Joseph at 858-7977.

ALLIANCE FEARS DESTRUCTION OF HERITAGE SITES: The Alliance has initiated a
study into the Archaeological and Heritage sites that may be impacted by Twin
Tracking. This study is being done by Gordon Mohs and his preliminary findings

are presented in a separate document. The Alliance Heritage Study was initiated
as member Bands felt that:

1) many heritage sites had been missed or overlooked in the heritage
study commissioned by CNR (Arcas Report), |

2) that Indian concerns regarding Indian heritage and heritage sites
were not adequately addressed,

3) and because Indians were not involved in the CN Heritage Study.

The findings of the Alliance Heritage Study has determined that the study
commissioned by CN Rail overlooked and missed numerous heritage sites adjacent
Indian reserves and in other areas.

A total of forty-seven heritage sites were recorded or revisited along a 25 km
stretch of the CNR. Areas examined included: 8.57 km North Thompson; 2.65 km |
Deadman's Creek; 6.8 km N1'Akapxm and Bonaparte and 6.5 Sto:lo. Thirty-four~~ -~-
new heritage sites were identified and recorded along the CNR and thirteen
previously recorded sites relocated and revisited. | |

Of the thirteen previously recorded, several sites could not be located during
the CN inventory. The remaining sites contained important deposits such as
burials which were overlooked. Several of these sites will be impacted with

Twin Tracking, for example, three at Deadman's Creek, one at Kanaka Bar and
two near Yale.

Of the thirty-four new sites on the CN right-of-way, about half will be impacted |
with Twin Tracking. The remainder are situated in sensitive areas and could be
seriously damaged from general improvements by CN, enbankment erosion, etc. |
Further work will be done by the Coalition in order to complete the gaps that

the Arcas Report failed to cover in their study.

CHILCOTIN AND ULKATCHO NATIONS DEMAND CLOSURE OF DEPARTMENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS:
After occupying the Williams Lake District Office of the DIA in late August, the
Chilcotin and Ulkatcho Indigenous Nations of Western Canada demanded the immed-
late closure of that Department. During negotiations on August 27th with the
‘Regional-Director General Dr. Owen Anderson, the Chilcotin Nation Action Group
had agreed to a four-week maximum time table for closure of the District Office.
In a press release issued September 25th, the Chilcotin and Ulkatcho Nations -
Stated, "Since then, public meetings have been held in all of the local Chilcotin
and Ulkatcho communities, with people further supporting the move to close the
Williams Lake District Office and to transfer the costs of administering that
office to the Chilcotin and Ulkatcho Nations so that we may reassume immediate .
control over decisions affecting our peoples’ daily lives.

"While other Indigenous Nations may want to continue receiving the services of
the Williams Lake District Office and the B.C. Regional Office of the Department
of Indian Affairs, we want to deal directly with the appropriate Federal Officials

and Ministers in Ottawa,"~the Chilcotin and Ulkatcho Nations release stated.

They further explained that a recent meeting between the two Nations and the

B.C. Regional Director, Dr. Owen Anderson, and other representatives of the

DIA in Chase on September 10th, proved to be a waste of time, effort and

money. The Chilcotin-Ulkatcho Chiefs advised the Regional Director then that
steps must be taken to close the Williams Lake District Office by September 27th.

A press conference was called on the morning of September 27th by the Chilcotin
and Ulkatcho Chiefs in Williams Lake to announce what further actions the two
Nations will take to ensure closure of the District Office.

DEADLINE FOR CLOSURE OF WILLIAMS LAKE DIA PASSED: During the press conference
held at the Chilcotin Nation Protocol office in Williams Lake on september 27th,
the Chiefs announced:

“Thursday September 27th was the deadline set by the Chiefs and people df the
Chilcotin and Ulkatcho, Indigenous Nations of Western Canada, for the closure
of the Department of Indian Affairs Williams Lake District Office. Thursday

also marked the opening of the Chilcotin and Ulkatcho' s Protocol Office in
Williams Lake. :

“Speaking for the Chilcotins and Ulkatchos at a press conference held at the |
protocol office Thursday morning, a traditional Chief of the Chilcotin explained
his people no longer chose to deal with bureaucrats who are not allowed to
respect us as a people or as Nations. They chose to communicate only with
Governments in a Nation to Nation relationship.

"In anticipation of the presence of a large number of Chilcotins and Ulkatchos
in Williams Lake Thursday, the DIA District Office locked its doors early in
the morning. It is, as far as we can remember, the first time they have done
what we want, although it was, as usual, without our prior consent. This is a
perfect example of the useless gooPLicasy of a Department that is supposed to
be protecting our Nations and defending our people. Whenever there are no
Chilcotins or Ulkatchos in Williams Lake, they are open for business; when we
come to town, they lock their doors.

"By the time we went over to tell the Staff that the office was now closed,. the -
doors had been unlocked, but a security guard was posted inside the main soot,
presumably to protect. che department staff against us--and hired with our money.

"Asked whether any future occupation is contemplated or whether action will be
taken against departmental employees who may try to enter the Chilcotin, the
Chiefs replied they have accomplished what they have set out to do. They added
the Chilcotin and Ulkatcho have never taken violent action against the immi-
grant population, except in the Chilcotin war of 1864 and then only in response
to the invasion of our land. We seek the peaceful way.

"It is no secret that the Indigenous Nations who have had the misfortune of |
being included within the boundaries of the Province of British Columbia have
been robbed of our traditional economic self-sufficiency and increasingly
obliged to rely on federally-administered welfare programs. Well over half the

funds voted on in the Canadian Parliament for our use and benefit are wasted by
the bureaucrats.

"The Chilcotin and Ulkatcho Nations are saying: "Enough. We are not prepared ~
to tolerate this dictatorship any longer. The money they are wasting is

desperately needed in our communities for the re-establishment of our economic
self-sufficiency."

"The Department of Indian Affairs' record in British Columbia is dismal. They
have connived with the Province in robbing us of our land and resources; they
have allowed many of our people to be imprisoned or apprehended and they have
ignored the poverty and the unhappiness that are the direct result of their
policies, policies that go against both the letter and the spirit of the
Canadian Constitution. Enough is Enough. From today, as far as we are
concerned, DIA no longer exists. | | |

"It is as the traditional Chief says: "When a rat moves into your house, it
makes life miserable for you. There is no point in trying to negotiate with
that rat. The only thing to do is to trap it and throw it out."

DEPARTMENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS LEADS OFFENSIVE AGAINST INDIGENOUS NATIONS: “Far
from defending and protecting the Indigenous Nations from this concerted attack
by the government that is bound by international law to be our trustee, DIA has
lead the offensive. This is nothing new. In the past, they have permitted the
province to claim ownership of 99 per cent of British Columbia, although no
treaties have been made in our country, and they have permitted the federal
fisheries department to harass and attack our people as they gather salmon

for their winter food.

"In short, DIA has invaded the sovereign jurisdiction of B.C.'s Indigenous
Nations and has permitted, even encouraged, the Province to do the same. We
have been invaded and the invasion continues.

"In the past, we have been weakened by the long series of European diseases
and by our inability to understand the English language, particularly that
version used by the federal bureaucracy, and the complex system of Canadian
government. That has changed. We have survived and our nations are again
growing in strength and purpose. We understand the English language an
Canadian government; we have at our disposal the services of capable lawyers
and other resource people, many of whom are prepared to work for little
material reward.

"We do not, however, have unlimited time. Our people, confined to inadequate
reserves with no economic base, are growing restless. If we are to resolve our
long and painful dispute with Canada and British Columbia peacefully, we must
be able to show our people real progress in the very near future.

"We shall expect the new government of Canada to abandon the policy of
"extinguishing" the Indigenous Nations and of assimilating us without our
consent. We shall expect the new government of Canada to accept that we do
not consent to assimilation.

"At an appropriate time in the not too distant future we shall ask Canada to
declare the Indian Act unconstitutional and illegal because it was enacted
without our consent and in contravention of the "sacred trust of civilization".

"As a sign of good faith, we shall expect the Williams Lake District Office of
the Department of Indian Affairs to be closed immediately. We shali expect ali
funds appropriated by Parliament for the Indigenous peoples to be pooled and

for the proportion due to the Deni Nations of the Chilcotin and Ulkatcho to be~
transferred directly to our bank accounts in single annual payments, the balance
of the current fiscal year to be transferred as soon as possible.

ALL "INDIAN FUNDS" SHOULD BE POOLED FOR INDIAN GOVERNMENTS TO REASSUME CONTROL:
All "Indian funds" appropriated by DIA, CEIC, Secretary of State, Fisheries and ~
Oceans, National Health and Welfare, Industry-Trade-Commerce-and-Regional-
Industrial-Expansion, including the Indian Economic Development Fund, and all
funds presently transferred to province for education and “child care" should

be pooled. Only in this way can we reassume control over our own affairs and
over planning for the future. We do not ask for any more money than is presently
voted by Parliament; we simply ask for a gesture of good faith and for the

better use of the money that is available. to us. We are willing to keep accounts,
to have them audited annually and to deliver a copy of the audit to the auditor-
general of Canada. .

We are heartily sick of the policy being dictated by senior DIA officials in
Ottawa and of the consequences of their decisions locally. That is why we

want the district office closed: it is wasting the money that we need for the
recovery of our economic self-sufficiency. When the other Indigenous Nations
of the west agree, we shall expect the regional DIA office to close. The money
saved by this direct relationship we shall expect to be transferred to us.

"What we are saying, in essence, is that the DIA system is a very expensive
failure and that Canadian policy is a painful and disgraceful fiasco. Now we
have resolved to live in our own way in our only homeland, guided by our own
values. We demand the abandonment of colonial institutions and neo-colonial
policies and we ask the people of Canada to rejoice with us at the re-emergence,
at long last, of the Fourth World. . 7

UNION OF B.C. INDIAN CHIEFS' 16TH ANNUAL GENERAL ASSEMBLY DATE CONFIRMED:

Due to limited availability of reasonable facilities, the UBCIC Annual General
Assembly dates have been changed from the end of October to November 6th, 7th
and 8th, 1984. The Assembly will be taking place in the ballroom (second floor)
of the Holiday Inn (Harbourside) in Vancouver. The complete address and phone
number of the hotel is: Holiday Inn (Harbourside), 1133 West Hastings Street,
Vancouver, B.C. Phone: (604) 689-9211.

The theme of this year's Assembly will be "Title, Consent and Indian
Government". Although we cannot be responsible for guaranteeing rooms for
delegates (which seems to be a policy that most hotels are adopting), we are
available to provide information.on location and/or rates of alternate hotels.

We invite you to call Mary Percival, Administrator, with any questions you may
have on this matter as well as other details of the 16th Annual General Assembly.

HANDCRAFT TABLE SPACE AVAILABLE: Anyone interested in setting up a table for
sale of crafts during the UBCIC Assembly should contact Delores Grant at this
office to ensure space throughout the conference.

SPECIAL INVITATION TO TRIBAL FEAST IN HONOUR OF GRAND CHIEF GEORGE MANUEL:
"There exists no cultural, social, economic or political victories in the
history of mankind that did not cost a price in hunger, sweat, blood, agony
and money...', stated George Manuel during the Indian Cin ged bation Peorann

in January, 1981. In honor of the many victories which Grand Chief Manuel

has gained on behalf of all Indigenous Peoples, the Union of B.C. Indian

Chiefs will be hosting a Feast on Wednesday, November 7th, 1984 to coincide
with its 16th Annual General Assembly. The Feast will begin at 6:30. The
location has yet to be determined, but will be announced prior to the Assembly.

HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT COALITION MEETS WITH B.C. ENVIRONMENT MINISTER:
Representatives of the Hazardous Waste Management Coalition met September 13
with Anthony Brummet, Provincial Minister of the Environment, along with senior
members of his staff in Victoria, to present a proposal which, if implemented,
could lead to a sound hazardous waste management plan for the province. The
Coalition represents nineteen groups, including the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs

and the Lillooet Tribal Council, who share a common concern with present hazard-~-- ->~~-

ous waste disposal practices. In a media release issued immediately after the. _
meeting with the Honorable Anthony Brummet, the Coalition stated: =~ —

"It is the opinion of the Coalition that the proposed process would develop full
public understanding, acceptance and support of the program. The proposal has
been developed and this meeting requested because of the sincere committment of
the Coalition to an open dialogue and exchange of information and ideas with the
Provincial Government. It is our intent to work with the government towards a
safe provincial hazardous waste management.

"Fundamental to our proposal is the publication both of an inventory of the
hazardous wastes generated in the Province and also a review of present dis-
posal practices. The different methods and techniques available to treat and
dispose of hazardous wastes need also to be thoroughly reviewed, assessed and
published. The public would then be in a position to assess a hazardous waste
Management strategy or plan drafted by the government.

"In essence, what we are looking for is a "building code' to define such things
aS Minimum standards and criteria for the design, siting and operation of haz-
ardous waste treatment and disposal facilities. The plan should be subject to
public review and comment before finalization. Necessarily the plan would pre-
cede the selection of any specific hazardous waste proponents, facility or site.

"When proponents are selected, a detailed system design would be evaluated
through public consultation, culminating in a full public hearing. The hearing
would consider all aspects of facility design, methods of operation, monitoring
and site selection. Recommendations arising from the public hearing would be
taken into consideration in the government approval process. Prior to issuance
of any operating permits, arbitration would establish the relationship between
facility operators and host communities.

"The Coalition was encouraged by the Minister's willingness to discuss its
proposal, reflect upon the contents, and to hold future discussions. In the

meantime, the proposal will be circulated for comment to experts in the field
and interested public." For Indian Governments interested in further informa-
tion on or participation in the Hazardous Waste Management Coalition contact
Darlene Taylor here at the UBCIC office at 684-0231 or John McCandless of the
Lillooet Tribal Council 256-7249 or 256-7523.

PESTICIDES ENDANGER NATURAL FOOD CYCLE OF INDIAN PEOPLE: Darlene Taylor, UBCIC
Environmental Health representative and John McCandless of the Lillooet Tribal
Council will be attending a Panel on Pesticides in Yakima, Washington, on
October 10th. The panel will be dealing with hazardous chemicals like Raid (in
the can), herbicides and other poisonous solutions that may be used along rail
lines, transmission lines or in the forestry areas. The issue of pesticides is
so terribly dangerous to Indian people because their food cycle is still so
close to nature--animals, birds, fish, wildlife (deer, moose, elk, etc.), all
travel through areas of danger, eating foliage or plants that have been sprayed
by pesticides. As well, Indian people still pick berries, use herbs and medi-
cines that may in some way be effected by these programs of spraying pesticides
over certain land areas. The dangers of Indian people being effected health-
wise from these pesticides is very real, but unseen, and little research has
been done into the long-term effects of so much poison going into the natural
environmental food cycle that our people depend upon. It is hoped that Darlene
will be able to set up an information panel on the effects of pesticides and
travel around the province to provide. such information to Indian Governments,
but the dollars for such a program have not yet been located. In the meantime,
Darlene is available through this office to answer any inquiries or concerns
you may have in this regard. Further information on this panel will also be
provided in future Up-dates.

ACROSS THE BORDER: TRANSBOUNDARY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES IN THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST:
The third annual conference of the Northwest Association for Environmental
Studies (co-sponsored by the Environmental Studies Programme of the University
of Victoria) is to be held November 1 to 3, at the University of Victoria. The
conference this year will provide an opportunity for people with diverse back-
grounds (scientists, elected officials, policy makers, environmental profes- ~~~ -

sionals, industry representatives and public interest groups, along with students)
to discuss environmental issues of common concern to both Canada and the U.S.; -

issues which seldom coincide with established political and socio-cultural bound-
aries. Participation in sessions will include: Acid Rain in the Pacific North-
west; Water and Wildlife; the Columbia River Treaty in Retrospect; Conflicts in
Forestry; Fisheries: Problems and Proposals; Off-shore Resource Exploration and
Development; Environmental Decisions: The Public Voice.

For Indian Governments interested in participating in this conference, contact:
Across the Border: Transboundary Environmental Issues, c/o Mary Ramsberry,
University Extension Conference Office, University of Victoria, Box 1700, ~—
Victoria, B.C. V8W 2Y2.

HEALTH PORTFOLIO ANNOUNCEMENTS: An internal staff transfer has been made
effective during September. Millie Poplar has now moved over to the Indian
Health Portfolio and will be managing the Health Liaison Program for Indian
Governments and Medical Services. |

HEALTH CAREERS' GUIDELINES READY: The Medical Services Branch of the National
Health and Welfare was successful in negotiating $1.3 million for development

of Indian & Inuit Professional Health Careers. The program is still in its
early developmental stages, but some activity is being co-ordinated by Don
Morrison, interim Program Director for the Medical Services Branch. Guidelines
for applications for bursaries in the Indian & Inuit Professional Health Careers
are now available, as well as the Indian & Inuit Project Application guidelines.
For copies of the bursaries and project guidelines, contact: Don Morrison,

Indian & Inuit Health, Medical Services Branch, 19th Floor, Jeanne Mance Building,
Tunney's Pature, Ottawa, Ontario K1A OL3, Phone: (613) 990-7765.

INDIAN CHILD WELFARE CONFERENCE POSTPONED: The Canadian Indian: Child Welfare =~
Conference originally scheduled to take place this fall has been postponed. The
conference will be re-scheduled for early 1985. Dates and location will be
published in the Up-date as soon as scheduled.

NATIONAL SOCIAL SERVICES ADVISORY COMMITTEE OF AFN MEETING: The Social Services
Advisory Committee of the Assembly of First Nations will be meeting in Vancouver
on November 6, 7 and 8. The Steering Committee of the National Indian Child
Welfare Conference will be meeting one day prior, on November 5th. The location
of this meeting has not yet been determined, however, Violet Birdstone, Health
Portfolio of the UBCIC, will be sitting on the Steering Committee, for further
information, Violet may be contacted at 684-0231. Observers are welcome at

this meeting.

CANADIAN PSYCHIATRIC ASSOCIATION'S SECTION ON NATIVE MENTAL HEALTH TO MEET: The
Native Section of the CPA is holding its amnual conference on Native Mental
Health at the Banff Springs Hotel in Banff, Alberta, on October 12, 13 and 14,
1984. The theme for this year's assembly will be "The Treatment of Alcoholism

in the North American Native". Some of the workshops will be dealing with the
psychological, biological and sociological factors. Others will cover such

areas as the Native Healer Program Experiences, as well as NNADAP Programs and
Outpatient Experiences. For information or registration contact: Dr. C.C..Brant
CPA Section on Native Mental Health, 339 Windermere Road, London, Ontario, N6A 5A5.
N6A 5A5.

‘ALBUQUERQUE CHOSEN FOR NEXT NATIONAL INDIAN CHILD CONFERENCE: "The Indian

Family in Transition: The Widening Circle" is the theme for the sixth National
Indian Child Conference. The annual conference is scheduled for October 28 -
November 1, 1984, at the Albuquerque Convention Centre, Albuquerque, New Mexico.
In line with the theme, the agenda is being designed to incorporate a variety

of youth workshops and panel presentations... --—-_-

The Conference theme is reflective of the ever changing decade of the 80's. The
timeliness of this theme is an exciting concept. According to Dallas Johnson,
Special Events Director, "This conference will be significant to Indian families
and communities in their efforts to adapt to technical, economic and familial
changes which are affecting all."

Major categories chosen for the conference include: .

- CHILDREN, YOUTH AND FAMILY AT RISK: handicapped, abuse and RESLSCE
child welfare, drug/alcohol dependency, parenting issues. ~~ -

- COMMUNITY AND QUALITY OF LIFE ISSUES: safety, ecology, technology,
women's issues, local initiatives, survival skills, economy, privately

owned small businesses, Save the Children community projects.
- EDUCATION/TRAINING: early education, youth, adults.

- HEALTH/MENTAL/NUTRITION: stress management, wholistic health, surviving
_ modern foods, reality based counseling, handling depression.

- YOUTH: discipline, counseling, school climate, learning styles, ethnic
therapy.

Individuals interested in presenting workshops at the conference should submit
proposals by July 15, 1984. Workshop presentations will be limited to fifty.

Applications will be accepted based on their relevance to the Indian community
and Youth.

Other features of the conference besides the workshops and panel presentations
will be exhibits, model programs, a pow-wow and entertainment.

A new event this year will be an Indian Youth Expo. This will include theatre
youth entertainers, speeches, Children's Indian Dress Fashion Show and a film
festival.

The conference is sponsored by Save the Children, a non-governmental, non-~
sectarlan service agency which has been active in Indian communities since
1949.

Persons interested in presenting workshops or attending the 1984 conference,
may write to Jean Hunt, Conference Co-ordinator, National Indian Child Confer-~
ence, 129 Jackson NE, Albuquerque, NM 87108, Phone: (505) 265-8705.

FOSTER PARENT LIABILITY INSURANCE: Human Resource Minister Grace McCarthy
announced September 18 that foster parents in British Columbia will be covered
by insurance for damages caused by foster children who are in care of the Super-
intendent of Family and Child Services. MHR has provided a grant to the B.C.
Federation of Foster Parent Associations to purchase group insurance for the
Ministry's 4,000 foster homes around.the province. The Federation of Foster
Parents will handle the administrative details of the group insurance policy
which came into effect on September 5th. Indian foster parents who may require
further information, contact: Joan Wenstob, Executive Director, B.C. Federation
of Foster Parents Association, 800 Cassiar Street, Vancouver, Phone: 299-8423.

TUESDAY'S CHILD NEED NOT BE ADOPTED BY NATIVE INDIAN FAMILY: Every Tuesday "The
Sun" newspaper runs a column called "Tuesday's Child" which gives a background
profile on hard-to-adopt children. The column is printed with the comendable
intention of bringing to the public's attention children who desparately need
placement in a loving home. For reasons of disabilities, handicaps or special
needs the children have little hope of being adopted into such homes. On
September 25th, "The Sun" supplied the information of a little girl called
"Carol", who just happens to be Native Indian. The following is excerpts from
that story: "Carol, who is almost seven, is looking forward to being adopted
and becoming part of a family. She is a happy, outgoing girl who is comfortable
with adults and children. Carol has just started Grade 1 and is doing well in
school...It was thought at one time that Carol was developmentally delayed, but
this now seems to be more a result of Over-protection then of potential...Carol
makes friends easily and gets along with everyone. She is an active girl who
loves all outdoor activities, particularly riding her bicycle and swimming... ~~
Carol, who has spina bifida in its mildest form, is not limited in any activity.

She must wear a catheter, but she takes care of all. her personal. and medical ..
needs herself."

The final paragraph of "The Sun" story stated: "Carol needs an adoptive family
that will encourage her to explore the full range of her potential, treat her

as the healthy normal child she is and give her a warm and loving home in which
to grow. Although Carol has native Indian status, her adoptive family need not
be native Indian." Numerous questions arise from this article, such as why the
Ministry of Human Resources persists in a policy of placement of Indian children
into non-Indian homes? All. the research and investigation that needs to be

done has unquestionably proven beyond any doubt that the vast majority of Indian
children who are placed in either foster or adoptive homes outside of their own
Indian communities inevitably suffer catastrophic breakdowns by the time they
enter into their teen years. It is common knowledge that 70% of the so-called
street children in the Vancouver urban centre are native Indian children who

had been taken into custody of the Ministry of Human Resources. These children

will end up filling our penal institutions...if they survive the life on the
street.

Every effort must be made to place Indian children under control of Indian
Governments. Indian Governments must be in a position to control the welfare

of their children. If placement is required outside of the parent's home,
resources must become available to place these children with extended family
members, other Tribal members or even other Indian people from other communities
if all else fails. If the Ministry of Human Resources is still seeking place-
ment of Indian children outside of their communities, then Indian Governments
must further develop control of their own child welfare resources.

IS "OVER-PROTECTION" OF A CHILD A VALUE JUDGMENT MADE BY SOCIAL WORKERS? The
Statement made within the above story that Carol was Originally assessed as

sosc:lUcOUlUc eS > ee

being perhaps developmentally delayed, but now seems to have been affected just
because of “over-protection" brings to mind one further question: why was the
little girl apprehended? There is, of course, a minor possibility that the
parents did voluntarily give up little Carol. However, this is rarely the

case as social workers are more usually the culprits in gaining custody of
Indian children. Often, the reasons for apprehension are subject to the value-
system of the social workers and not based on values inherent in traditional
Indian childrearing patterns. Most Tribal patterns emphasize a learn-by-imita-
tion approach. Anglo social workers often misinterpret such an approach and
label it "permissive or over-protective", by which they usually mean "neglectful".
In actuality, it is anything but. Indian children are shown respect for their
abilities and are given no expectations beyond those abilities. Within Indian
societies there is usually a wide circle of adults nearby, watching over the
children and providing assistance when asked. The desire to imitate and please
one's elders motivates the child to learn and develop. We can only hope that
the assessment of Carol being “over-protected" is not a negative Anglo value
judgment and is not the motivation for her apprehension. These types of mis-
guided assumptions all too often effect forever the lives and the fdture well-
being of our defenceless children.

FISHING CASES INCREASED FOR LEGAL STAFF: "Never before have so many Indian
people been busted for fishing," UBCIC lawyer Louise Mandell informed Chiefs'
Council on October 2nd, 1984. Mandell explained that over 75 people had been
charged within the last month for alleged infractions, the charges being laid
all over everywhere involving the Fraser River system. The charges have usually
been laid against people involved in dip-netting or other traditional methods of
fishing, and a good portion involve elders just involved in food- -fishing. Mandell
said she suspects that the Kemano II project and the ongoing fish-depletion are
more responsible than ever for the increase of charges being laid against Indian
people. Louise said the legal staff is doing its best on the legal front—-
working hard on both the Fountain and Nanaimo. Band fishing cases--but, she
explained that it isnot just a problem of developing new legal arguments.

Even when victories are won at the high court level, this information does not

reach down to the people who are. going. to be. effected. Therefore, the harrass—. .-.—

ment by fisheries officers continues in attempts to erode the aboriginal fishing
rights. Louise said more legal and political consolidation of strategies would
be required. In the meantime Indian people must be willing to continue exer-
cising their rights despite harrassment.

SUPREME COURT TO HEAR B.C. HUNTING RIGHTS CASE IN OTTAWA ON OCTOBER’ 26TH: ‘The
Supreme Court of Canada will begin hearing the most important B.C. Hunting rights
case ever on October 26th. Due to its importance, a bus caravan is being
arranged to leave Williams Lake to cross country all the way to Ottawa prior to
the hearing. The Assembly of First Nations will be assisting in trying to make
accommodations’ arrangements along the route of the caravan. For further infor-
mation on how to join the bus caravan contact Chief Charlene Belleau at the.
Alkali Lake Band Office, Phone: (604) 440-5611. :

LEAVE TO APPEAL KAMLOOPS TAXATION CASE TO SUPREME COURT MADE OCTOBER’ 1ST: Leave
to appeal the B.C. Court of Appeals' decision of the Kamloops Taxation decision
was made by Leslie Pinder before the Supreme Court of Canada in Ottawa, October
lst. The B.C. Court of Appeal had ruled that "tax exemption on social services
tax does not apply on surrendered reserve lands." The leave to appeal was made
before a three-member panel of the Supreme Court which has reserved its decision
for several weeks. Leslie has argued on behalf of the Kamloops Band that "Sur-_
rendered land is still reserve land and remains for the use and benefit of Indian
people and therefore should not be subjected to the taxation." That decision on
whether or not the Supreme Court will hear the case should be made prior to the
General Assembly.

IMMIGRATION CASES STILL ACTIVE IN INDIAN COUNTRY: "No Canadian immigration law
should apply to Indian people here, since Indian people are the only ones who

are not immigrants,'’ UBCIC lawyer Louise Mandell explained to the Chiefs' Council ~~
meeting held at the offices here in Vancouver October 2nd and 3rd. Mandell was
referring to three immigration cases she has worked on during the last few months
involving citizens of Indian Nations with territories inside of Canada: the case
of Chief Robert Satiacum, Panquid and his family who are adopted into the Nuxalk
Nation and the case of the Kootenay Indian from the United States side of the
border who continues to work with her people on the Canadian side.

The case of Chief Robert Satiacum concluded this month with hearings taking
place on numerous days throughout September because of the requirements of
holding hearings inside Okalla. Louise described the conditions-under which
Satiacum was forced to make his refugee claim statement as the most gross con-
ditions imaginable. These hearings were held in the tiny visiting area of
Oakalla, subject to all surrounding noises and interruptions and were only able
to continue each day for a maximum of two hours. Under such conditions it was
difficult to continue testimony. _The concentration of evidence was undermined
and at times Chief Satiacum was even unable to respond due to background —
distractions. ,
Despite all the hardships, Louise said Chief Satiacum was able to complete his
Refugee Claim Statement and as well, other supporting affidavits were presented
on his behalf. The full transcripts will now be sent to Ottawa for presenta-
tion to the Refugee Review Committee. She suggested that despite all the work
and bountiful testimony on his behalf, Chief Satiacum had little hope of gain-
ing refugee status in this country by the mere fact that there is little like-
lihood the Canadian government is going to say, "That's terrible the way the
United States is treating its Indian people." The struggles here are too simi-
lar for Canada to admit this type of persecution exists.

Mandell stressed the only hope for Chief Satiacum is at the political level in
Ottawa. During the May meeting of the Assembly of First Nations a resolution

was adopted requesting a political lobby be instituted to gain Indian repre-
sentation on that Refugee Review Committee. At the present time, there are no
Indian people sitting on the review committee which would mean committee mem-
bers would have limited background knowledge or understanding of Indian struggles
Considering the fact that there is massive substantiated documentation on the
situation of Guatemala's Indian people and the daily massacres facing them, and
that Canada has only allowed entry to three (yes-3) Indian refugees from that.
country, there is little possibility Chief Satiacum will be accepted as a refugee
from the United States. The political lobby, therefore, with-the new Conservative --
Minister of Immigration, Flora McDonald, is vital. It is inconceivable that
Canada's doors should be closed to Indian people fleeing persecution in their own
countries, wherever that may be in the western hemisphere, because there are no
Indian people to review their cases at the Ottawa Refugee Review Committee level.

Louise explained to Chiefs’ Council that the completed statement of Chief Robert
Satlacum contains valuable Indian history in regards to the fishing wars in
Washington State that eventually led to the Boldt decision recognizing 50% of - ~~
all fish for the Indian people of that State. As well, she said the transcripts
were full of information regarding independent Indian economic development and __
taxation issues that were vitally relevant to Indian people here. For any one.
interested in receiving copies of the transcripts, they should contact Louise.

NUXALK CITIZEN AND HIS FAMILY ARRESTED IN LETHBRIDGE: Louise, who is also
representing the case of Panquid (Nils Somby) and his family, reported they were
all arrested in Lethbridge at the beginning of October. Louise said the family
will not be requesting refugee status within Canada and do not wish to fight
deportation from Canada since they are citizens of the Nuxalk Nation and should
be returned to their Nuxalk homeland. Panquid is a dedicated activist for the
rights of Indigenous peoples, most especially his original people, the Sami _
from the northern sector of Norway. He is presently in custody in the Lethbridge
Correctional Centre pending immigration hearings against him. His wife is being
held at the same correctional institution. However, their two daughters are in
custody of the Alberta Social Services Department. Panquid's first appearance
will take place on October 9th in Lethbridge.

KOOTENAY NATION HANDLING THEIR’ CASE THROUGH DIPLOMATIC CHANNELS: "A111 immigra-
tion cases have to do with Indian Self-Government,'' Louise explained and that

eeeotd VUpPpUatlte oO

includes especially the case of the Kootenay Indian woman who is working as

Band Manager amongst her people on the Canadian side of the border. The Kootenay
Nation, divided by the U.S./Canada border has a large portion of its citizens in

Montana. The woman, who is from the Montana side, is constantly being harrassed

by Canadian Immigration in order to force her to obtain a work permit. Refusing

to do so as a citizen of the Kootenay Nation, the Immigration Department is con-

stantly threatening to deport her. The Kootenay people have instituted on-going

government to government diplomatic processes which up to now have been success-

ful. But the threat of deportation is ever present. :

NUXALK RESPONDS TO ARREST OF ITS CITIZENS: After being notified that four of
their citizens had been arrested in Lethbridge, the Nuxalk Nation immediately
telexed Immigration Minister Flora MacDonald the following message: "We request
the immediate release of Panquid and his family, who are ciitzens of the Nuxalk
Nation. They were adopted two years ago as citizens of the Nuxalk Nation

through our traditional potlach system, which is our sacred law. Through our
eyes, the police who have arrested Panquid and his family have actually kidnapped
them. The police are interfering with an issue which has to be dealt with be-
tween the Nuxalk Government and the Canadian Government. This is why we protest
the arrest. Panquid and his family must be released until the issue is dealt with
with by the two governments.

We demand that the children be released to the care of the party of our choosing.
It 1s inhumane to have the children separated from their parents. This should

be dealt with immediately. The meeting between us is very important to resolving
this issue. We are prepared to meet at your convenience." The telex was signed
by Chief Lawrence Pootlass, hereditary Chief of the Nuxalk Nation. For further
information or support in this case contact the Bella Coola office at, Phone:
(604) 799-5613 or 799-5959.

UBCIC SUPPORTS RELEASE OF PANQUID AND FAMILY: Chief Saul Terry, President of
the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs, responded rapidly to requests for support of
the Nuxalk family with the following telex to Flora MacDonald, Minister of

Immigration: "Be advised that the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs is in Support-ef-— <e

the request by the Nuxalk Nation for the release of Panquid and his family. The
matter of citizenship is an agenda item of unfinished business between Indian
Nations and Canada. Until such matters as these, which are associated with
recognition of Indian Self-government, are concluded to our mutual satisfaction
the Canadian Government should refrain from unnecessarily incarcerating or
breaking up family units."

QUESNEL COMMUNITY MEETING CALLED TO STOP PREJUDICE AGAINST INDIAN STUDENTS THERE :
Chief Thomas Billyboy has been Chief of the Alexandria Band near Quesnel for three
years and lived there for fifteen years and cannot recall one Indian student grad-
uating from the Quesnel high school system. Chief Billyboy says high school stud-
ents are now too fearful to even attend the secondary schools there, so all of the
kids from his Band are remaining home. Unfortunately for the younger kids who are
not of legal age to drop-out, he says, they must continue attending the schools
until something is urgently done to change the prejudiced attitude towards them.

In order to urgently remedy that situation, Chief Billyboy is calling for a commun-
ity meeting at the Quesnel Indian Friendship Centre on October 15th at 11:00 a.m.

He is hopeful the Chairman of the School Board and others related with the education
System will attend. For anyone interested in further information on this meeting,
contact Chief Billyboy at his Band Office, Phone: 993-4324 or his home, Phone:
993-4654. Home School Co-ordinator, Susan Stump of the Alexandria Band may also
provide details.

CHIEFS' COMMISSION ON THE BILATERAL PROCESS: Chief Robert Manuel, Co-ordinator of
the Commission, has three months before the next All-Chiefs meeting to tour B.C. to
explain and provide information on the Bilateral Process. In this regard Chief
Manue 1 has been scheduled to address two major upcoming meetings: the B.C. Consti-
tutional Conference (Vancouver) - October 18 & 19 and the UBCIC 16th Annual General
Assembly (Vancouver) - November 6, 7 & 8, 1984. Additional invitations and dates of
upcoming meetings in your area can be forwarded to Debra Hoggan who is currently
working with UBCIC as Special Assistant to President, Chief Saul Terry and has been
given the responsibility of Maintaining Chief Manuel's travel itinerary.

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