Periodical
Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs Newsletter (May 1997)
- Title
- Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs Newsletter (May 1997)
- Is Part Of
- 1.06-01.08 Union of BC Indian Chiefs Newsletter
- 1.06.-01 Newsletters and bulletins sub-series
- Date
- May 1997
- Language
- english
- Identifier
- 1.06-01.08-08.02
- pages
- 16
- Table Of Contents
-
IN THIS ISSUE...
2. President's Message
3. Penticton Indian Band
4. Press Conference with
Ovide Mecredi
5. Specific Claims Update
6. B.C. Native Women's -
Society
7. MEP condemns BC
Forestry Practices
8. Resource Center Update
9. 12 Annual International
Pow-Wow
10. National Day of Action
12. Irwin Announces
Retirement
13. Insitutute of Indigenous
Government
14. UBCIC Mailbox - Contributor
- Chief Saul Terry
- David Hunt
- Robert Burr
- Carmen-Anne Menegozzo
- Type
- periodical
- Transcription (Hover to view)
-
Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs
NEWSLETTER
MAY1997
Chiefs Announce "Voice of the Peoples" gathering
commerating anniversary of Mohawk Crisis.
On July 11 & 12,1997, the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs, Stl'atVimx Nation and Cayoose Creek Indian Band w
co-host the "Voice of the Peoples" gathering in Cayoose Creek,B.C.
This year, Chiefs Council being. Therefore, they directed
of the U n i o n of B . C .
Indian Chiefs decided that the
citizens in every community
must have the opportunity to
express their concerns on the
issues affecting their well-
IN THIS ISSUE...
2. President's Message
3. Penticton Indian Band
4. Press Conference with
Ovide Mecredi
5. Specific Claims Update
6. B.C. Native Women's Society
7. MEP condemns BC
Forestry Practices
8. Resource Center Update
9. 12 Annual International
Pow-Wow
10. National Day of Action
12. Irwin Announces
Retirement
13. Insitutute of Indigenous
Government
14. UBCIC Mailbox
MAY 1997
the U.B.C.I.C. to help facilitate
a Gathering on July 11 & 12,
1997 at the Cayoose Creek
Camp Grounds, home of the
Stl'atl'imx Nation in Lillooet,
B.C.
The discussions and
decisions must come from the
people, therefore, communities
will be asked to help organize
the event.
Federal Government's
strategies to undermine the
inherent rights of Indian people
is being conducted without
adequate communication with
citizens of Indian nations.
Politically in British Columbia,
decisions are being made to
force Indian Bands into selfgovernment agreements which
will extinguish the Aboriginal
Title and Rights and assimilate
bands into mainstream
Canadian society. How many
people understand that well
enough to agree to this process?
This is one reason why we must
gather together to become
informed and develop plans of
action to solve this problem i f
we hope to contain our political
rights as Indian nations into
the future.
It is time to be heard and
as Nations of people find ways
to defend and protect our lands
and resources. The "Voice of
the Peoples" will bring many
people into a political action to
express major concerns of the
communities. The challenge is
for Chiefs and Council and their
people to take up the call for
political action by holding
information meetings before
the Gathering and develop short
and l o n g term goals on
Aboriginal Title and Rights.
Our past Elders, Political
Leaders, Spiritual Leaders and
Peoples had visions for Indian
Government all over the North
and South American continent
- it is up to us to reaffirm our
responsibility to care for and
protect the land and build on
the dreams they left for us to
fulfill. We want the reservations
to r e m a i n h o l i s t i c a n d
productive but how can that
remain intact in negotiating coexistence with the Canadian
people?
We want communities
that are clean, safe, wholesome
and provide opportunities for
the families but the social ills
appear to overpower any
meaningful efforts we put into
health and education services.
There are a hundred and one
organizations existing just on
land claims and they interfere
w i t h the a f f a i r s o f the
communities. This type of
interference confuses people
and affects good decisions that
have to be made.
We cannot ask the
citizens of Indian nations to
join i n this Gathering just to
talk - it is time for action. As
Chiefs we are prepared to listen.
Joint Policy Council
What is it and what can it
do for you? p. 7
Nuxalk Nation steal
back timber, p. 8
Ahousaht Takes Aim at
Illegal Fish Farm. p. 9
Seton Lake Indian Band
Applies the Brakes to the
"Budd Car" p.11
21st Annual Provincial
Elders Conference' 97 p. 13
1
UBCIC NEWS
Message
From
the
Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs
Submission on The Indian Act
Optional Modification Act (Bill C-79) to Standing
Committee On Aboriginal Affairs & Northern
Development - Vancouver, B.C. March 11, 1997.
President
«
Chief Saul Terry, X'wisten
G
ood evening Committee Members of the Standing
Committee on Aboriginal Affairs. I am permitting
myself to be transmitted to you via this rather impersonal i f not
depersonalizing video teleconference technology. Permit me to
introduce myself.
I have been elected to the Council of my community for the
last twenty-four years. Between 1978 and 19831 was elected Vice
President of the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs. The Chiefs, my
colleagues, have honored me to be their President in the last
fourteen years. I cite these facts not to brag but to illustrate that I
have witnessed many politicians from your institutions come and
go without addressing the issues that plague our Peoples between
your elections. I am here, this day, to reiterate that there is a better
way than B i l l C-79 to improve Indian/Canada relations. Some of
those ideas are touched upon in the Assembly of First Nations'
presentation by National Chief Ovide Mercredi. Therefor I want
it put on record for you as the Committee on Aboriginal Affairs, for
the Prime Minister, the Honorable John Chretien, for my fellow
Chiefs and especially for the Peoples i n our territories that the
Union of B. C. Indian Chiefs concur with the message the Assembly
of First Nations presented to you on March 6, 1997.
On another occasion I appeared before the Standing
Committee on Aboriginal Affairs on behalf of the Union of B.C.
Indian Chiefs i n March 1991 because I felt strongly about the state
of siege over our people in Indian country. That year I was
heartened to witness actions taken by the Mohawk peoples in
defending their territory and at that time I said to Committee
Members: time and again we as Chiefs have to call your attention
to the crisis situations facing our people in Canada. I am sorry to
say that little has changed in the past few years.
I also looked at the Discussion Notes on the Indian Act
produced by the Department ofIndian&Northern Affairs in 1971
in which they state that "The Indian Act represents special
legislation taking precedence over provincial legislation which the
Parliament of Canada considers is essential to the needs of the
Indian people not only as a safeguard to protect their treaty and
property rights, but as a means of promoting their advancement.''
If indeed Parliament terms the Indian Act as special legislation it
must be for good reason. That reason stems from Indian-Crown
relations, a special relationship out of which arises lawful obligations
for the Government of Canada respecting Indian Nations. It is
wrong for any Minister to make changes to this special legislation
for political expediency unless our people are fully informed and
2
"The people of Canada andpur citizens
in our homelands must know the true source
of their political disempowerment, social
dispair,poverty andspiritual disillusionment"
through our collective free will give our consent. After all, there
are Treaties and the Trust obligation which must be lived up to by both parties- your government and our governments.
It is hard to believe that any Minister placed in a position of
honor and trust would deliberately try to lead our people down a
path riddled with mine fields targeting our Aboriginal and Treaty
Rights. The Minister's unilateral action compounds the mistrust
and uncertainty which now exist in our communities. I can say with
confidence that the deliberate sequence has led us to this day and
which one again prompts me to sound the alarm to protect the
Aboriginal Title and Rights of the people. The people of Canada
and our citizens i n our homelands must know the true source of
their political disempowerment, social dispair, poverty and spiritual
disillusionment.
For your information, in 1986 the Auditor-General criticized
the Department of Indian Affairs' land management program.
What created the problem we are having now is the fact that the
Department decided to change the way they do business with
Indian Bands to avoid possible litigation from First Nations
because of the Guerin Decision. The fact is the Department sought
input from Chiefs to improve on the land management program
and Chiefs responded because we know this issue well. But this was
not good enough for the Department who instead added a whole
range of studies under the "Lands, Revenues and Trust Review.''
Millions of dollars were spent (41,000,000 in our estimation) on
that process and in the end all of it was shelved except for the
Chartered Land Management Proposal, Indian Gas and Oil and
Monies.
These proposals have been worked and reworded because
our Chiefs would not endorse them. It is now called the' 'Optional
Land Management Proposal For Specific First Nations'' or Bill C 75. It is geared towards just 13 Indian Bands. It played a large part
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
(Continued on page 3)
MAY
1997
UBCIC NEWS
Penticton Indian Band
Press Statement
April 17, 1997 - Elders and members of the Penticton
Indian Band, at a community meeting last night, directed the
Penticton Indian Band Council to issue a public statement to the
effect that:
" A s a direct result of Fraser Martin's threat to sue the
Penticton Indian Band or either of the Similkameen Bands if
the Bands acquire an interest in the Apex Ski Resort; the
Penticton Indian Band has abruptly abandoned its efforts to seek
a peaceful resolution of the Apex Ski Resort by way of entering
into a joint-venture arrangement with one of the six investor
groups who have indicated an interest in acquiring the ski
resort.
In addition, the Penticton Indian Band takes this
opportunity to serve notice that its membership shall actively
renew their commitment and efforts to fully protect the
environment within the Apex Ski Resort area." The Penticton
Indian Band finds these current circumstances to be extremely
regrettable.
We, like the six investor groups have invested a great
deal of time, effort and expense in our attempts to negotiate a
joint-venture arrangement that would allow for the long-term
operation and stability of the Apex Ski Resort.
Further, we would like to remind all parties that we have
made every effort to seek a peaceful resolution to this longstanding dispute. At the outset, we negotiated and signed, in
good faith, the Initial Agreement which contained the necessary
provisions to settle the Apex Ski Resort/Penticton Indian Band
dispute. The Initial agreement was signed by three Provincial
Government Cabinet Ministers. On August 30, 1995 the
Province "breached" the Initial Agreement and "walked
away" from the Initial Agreement.
Subsequent to court proceedings and the imposition of an
injunction directing members of the PIB to refrain from
impeding traffic on Green Mountain Rd., the members of the
PIB have respected the court injunction. Finally, in an act of
"good-will" the Penticton Indian Band allowed the Province to
repair and pave Green Mountain Road last October in return for
the Provinces commitment to undertake a full scale
environmental assessment of the Seven Peaks area. To
date, no such commitment has been made by the province.
Again, the Penticton Indian Band finds it extremely
regrettable that, in spite of our best efforts to avoid further
conflict, the irresponsible and selfish actions of one individual
and the continued bungling of the Provincial government, the
entire economy of the South Okanagan has been placed in
jeopardy
Chief Stewart Phillip, Okanagan Nation
(250) 493-3924 /490-5166
MAY1997
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
(Continued from page 2)
in prompting the Minister to amending the Indian Act.
The Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs opposes any attempt
by the Canadian Government to diminish the unceded
land base of our Peoples.
We have suggested a Treaty with Canada on a
Nation to Nation basis which promises long Political,
Social and Economic benefits for our Peoples. The
problem we have with the present process is that the
trust relationship we have with the Crown is being
changed arbitrarily. The Minister is refusing to hear
the options we have.
In conclusion, the approach Minister Irwin has
taken raises many serious socio-economic questions.
It is a grave understatement to allude to the Optional
Modification Act changes as cosmetic or superficial.
If allowed to proceed they shall profoundly continue to
affect our Peoples 'Political, Social, Economic, Cultural
and Spiritual existence.
±
Penticton Indian Band
PRESS R E L E A S E
March 4, 1997—Today, the Westbank First nation held
negotiations with the Federal and Provincial government
officials with respect to Westbank Indian Band's involvement in
the British Columbia Treaty Commission (BCTC) Process.
Penticton Indian Band Councillors Joan Phillip and
Pierre Kruger attended this meeting and formally registered the
Penticton Indian Band's opposition to the Westbank First
Nation's involvement in the B.C. Treaty Commission process,
for the following reasons:
1. That the Okanagan Traditional Territory is indivisible. No
single community such as Westbank First Nation, has the right
to negotiate a portion of Okanagan Territory;
2. Further that, the Westbank First nation requires the consent
of the remaining six (6) Okanagan Nation communities, as
follows:
Okanagan Indian Band, Penticton Indian Band, Osoyoos
Indian Band, Upper Similkameen Indian Band, Lower
Similkameen Indian Band, Upper Nicola Indian Band.
Under no circumstances will the Penticton Indian Band
allow this fraudulent process to continue. If the Westbank First
Nation continues to pursue this fraudulent Treaty process, the
Penticton Indian Band shall be forced to sue the Federal
Government, the P r o v i n c e of B . C . , the B . C . Treaty
Commission, and the Westbank First Nation.
-30Contact: Councillor Joan Phillip
(250) 493-3924 or (250) 493-0048
3
UBCIC NEWS
Press Conference with Ovide Mecredi of
Assembly of First Nations - April 18, 1997
It's quite obvious to me and will be
obvious to my people and the Chiefs
across the country that the Prime
Minister still refuses to address our
people's needs and desires for reform in
this country. A l l that we wanted from
him yesterday was to agree to meet with
the Chiefs and himself to begin a
dialogue on the Royal Commission. We
never asked him to state any position on
any recommendation. We just simply
asked him to meet with us to begin a
dialogue on how we're going to work
together on the recommendations.
And we're not naive. We have
been around many years too, we know
how government works. And we've
never said we agree with all the
recommendations. We've said we agree
with the report in principle. It's a
blueprint for reform, it's a foundation for
negotiating with the government of
Canada and the provinces a new
relationship, a better life for the First
Nations across this country. We're not
expecting the Government of Canada to
come and tell us at the very initial
meeting we agree w i t h a l l 440
recommendations.
But what we are expecting of
them is to show good faith so that they
give some hope to our people and the
good faith that we're expecting from
them is to agree to sit down with us on a
continuing basis to discuss the
recommendations, to try and reach a
consensus on the contents of the report
for i m p l e m e n t a t i o n . A n d the
implementation can take the form of
immediate changes, the implemenation
cant take the form of long-term changes.
But we are prepared to discuss with the
Prime Minister and the premiers how
this can be accomplished over time.
And I repeat by saying that I am
very disappointed that the Prime
Minister is dismissing that simple
request to meet with us, and is thereby
ignoring our demands for reform in this
country. So I'm here to say to him and
to the Canadian people that we will
escalate the protests, the rallies, and the
political action that we started yesterday,
that we will do this as long as we have to
until such time as the Prime Minister
agrees to meet with the Chiefs across this
country in a meeting convened jointly by
himself and the Assembly of First
Nations.
I've already talked to my national
executive and we have agree to maintain
pressure on the federal government. But
this time I wanted to be very clear to the
Canadian people that what we will do is
not to target the Canadians. We don't
want to inconvenience the Canadian
people themselves. It is not the
Canadians in this country who are
holding back progress; it's the Prime
Minister, it's the federal government.
So our strategy involves the
following elements: First, we will be
inviting all the premiers to join forces
with the Chiefs and the Assembly of
First Nations in encouraging the Prime
Minister to convene a meeting with the
people that I represent so that we can
begin dialogue with the federal
government.
Secondly, we will be advising the
premiers to also indicate their
willingness to sit down with the Prime
Minister and the aboriginal people to
begin discussions on the report itself,
because one of the recommendations of
the Royal Commission is for the Prime
Minister to convene a meeting of
himself, the premiers, and the aboriginal
leaders for discussions on the Royal
Commission.
We will target specific individuals
in the Government of Canada for our
political protests. That includes the
Prime Minister himself because he is
ultimately responsible for the lack of
progress on Indian Affairs and Indian
policy this country. It is his government
that is making the people poorer than
they were when the Conservatives were
in power, and it is his government that
has made all these enlightened promises
that he failed to deliver on, and it is his
government that's refusing to sit down
with the Chiefs and talk about the Royal
Commission. So we'll be focusing on
him specifically as the Prime Minister.
In addition, we will target Paul
Martin, the minister who is responsible
for all the cutbacks in this country, the
person that we personally hold
responsible for all the pain and suffering
in our communities because of the
cutbacks that he has implemented in
order to meet the desires of the business
community at the expense of the poor in
this country.
OVIDEMECREDI(Continued on page 12)
ROTISKENRAKETE WARRIOR SOCIETY
On April 21, 1997, the Rotiskenrakete Warrior Society from different territories within the Kanienkehaka (Mohawk) met to
discuss the recent conflict between the Seneca Nation of Indian and the New York State Police and New Y o r k State
Department of Taxation. The Rotiskenrakete are closely monitoring the situation and are in contact with our Seneca brothers. According to Kaienerekowa (Great Law of Peace) the Seneca are a brother to the Kanienkehaka. As the mend of the
Kanienkehaka, it is our duty by Law to stand and assist our Seneca brothers in their time of need.
The Rotiskenrakete are in full support of the position the Seneca Nation of Indians have taken in opposition of taxation in the
sovereign Seneca Territories.
We encourage all Onkwehonwe people to show their support for the Seneca People. Multiply this Press Release and send it out.
4
MAY 1997
UBCIC NEWS
Specific Claims Research Program
Update
Kwakiutl District Council
Record Group 10
Anyone involved in research related to aboriginal peoples
knows how complicated and time-consuming the work can be.
There are many sources to consult and the records are not always
easy to find. Researchers who undertake projects that involve the
use of government documents may be obliged to look through
records created by a variety of government departments to find the
information they need. The starting point for this type of research
is often the records of the Department of Indian Affairs, with either
active records held at the Department or historical files held at the
National Archives of Canada.
Record Group 10, or R G 10, is the designation
given by the National Archives to records created by the Department
of Indian Affairs and transferred to the Archives. R G 10 is the
largest record group at the National Archives relating to native
issues and is generally the first stop for most researchers. The
original order of the records is maintained by the Archives which
means that researchers must rely on the Inventory and finding
aids, created by archivists who specialise in R G 10, to help them
locate pertinent files. Finding individual documents within R G 10,
or within any large body of records, cannot be done in one step.
Researchers must narrow the search by moving from the Inventory
to individual finding aid lists, then to volumes (the term used for
the storage boxes), on to files, and finally to documents—all the
while bearing in mind changes the Department made over time to
its filing systems and administrative jurisdictions.
Within the R G 10 Inventory records descriptions are
divided into four broad groupings: Pre-Confederation Headquarters'
records; Post-Confederation Headquarters' records; Field Office
Records; and Miscellaneous Land records. Each one of these
groupings is broken down into sub-groups within the Inventory to
help researchers narrow their search.
R G 10 records are stored at the National Archives in
Ottawa as well as in regional Records Centres across Canada.
Records created by the Department of Indian Affairs in British
Columbia have, since 1984-85, been transferred to the National
Archives at the Vancouver Federal Records Centre in Burnaby.
Many of the R G 10 records stored in Ottawa have been microfilmed
and are available through inter-institutional loan.
The U B C I C Resource Centre holds a comprehensive
collection of R G 10 microfilm including copies of the Inventory
and many of the most useful finding aids. Through its Research
Department, the Union periodically offers workshops which look
at R G 10 in detail and allow researchers to gain first-hand
experience using this complex record group.
MAY 1997
March 8, 1997
The Cabinet
Province of British Columbia
Parliament Buildings
Victoria, B.C. V 8 V 1X8
Dear Premiers and Ministers,
Re: Deer and Eagle Island Settlement Agreement
In reference to the above, it has been brought to our
attention that a negotiated Settlement Agreement has been
reached on this long outstanding issue between the Kwakiutl
Band, Halcan Logging Ltd. and the Province of British
Columbia.
As you may know these Islands are an integral part of
the Kwakiutl Douglas Treaty and continues to be an important
food and recreation area, not only for the Kwakiutl but also for
the surrounding non-Aboriginal community. It is also a burial
site in pre-contact and contact times.
We understand that the Province has displayed a great
deal of patience in coming to this agreement over the past ten
years. You are to be congratulated for that patience.
We understand that Canada is prepared to fast track this
Agreement through the office of Specific Claims West. It is
hoped that this will be accomplished on or before 2 April, 1997
in order to meet time lines contained in the Agreement.
We strongly support this agreement as it will prove that
there is a willingness on the part of all parties that there is an
alternative to litigation that would be unnecessarily costly for all
Parties concerned.
We encourage you to act with all due consideration to
put this matter to a just and equitable close. We look forward to
an early and favourable response.
Yours truly,
David Hunt,
Chairman, Kwakiutl District Council
cc Glenn Robertson, M L A
5
UBCIC NEWS
B.C. Native Women's Society
embargoed till 10 a.m. P.S.T. March 19, 1997
Press Conference : 10:00 a.m. Room 1
Trout Lake Community Centre
3350 Victoria Drive at 14th
"We can't seem to get the government's attention
without a writ in our back pocket," said Jane Gottfriedson,
President of the B.C. Native Women's Society, announcing a
Federal Court action against the Minister of Indian Affairs over
discrimination against women in the Indian Act and in the
recently introduced Indian Land Management Framework
Agreement legislation.
"The Indian Act continues to discriminate against
women in several ways," Gottfriedson continued. " W e have
been telling the government about that, asking them to remedy
the discrimination, and finally drafting remedial legislation for
them. But there has been no action in response to our requests.
And now they are trying to pass the buck to the bands to deal
with the problem."
Plaintiffs in the action are the B.C. Native Women's
Society and two individual native women, Jane Gottfriedson of
the Lower Similkameen Band and Teressa Nahanee of the
Squamish Band. The lawsuit concerns the situation of married
aboriginal women on reserves, who cannot get a share on the
matrimonial home or an order for exclusive possession of the
matrimonial home when their marriage breaks up.
The courts have held that provincial family laws, which
provides these remedies to every other woman in Canada, do
not apply on reserves because there is a conflict between them
and the Indian Act. The lawsuit says that this legal situation
discriminates against Aboriginal women, and is contrary to the
Charter of Rights. It is also a breach of the federal
government's fiduciary responsibility to Aboriginal women.
Meanwhile, the federal government has signed
agreements in principle with fourteen bands which will devolve
responsibility for the administration of lands on reserve to the
band level. The lawsuit asks for a declaration that the
government cannot contract out of its fiduciary responsibility.
Gottfriedson and Mclvor were particularly angry that the
federal government had not consulted them about the proposed
land management framework agreement. " W e wrote to the
government in November and asked to be heard during their
consultations. The next thing we hear, it is March and they are
telling us that there is only one more teleconference hearing, in
Edmonton just four days later. There was no way that we could
get there to make our views known. The high handed way the
government treated its consultation process - - we understand
they have had virtually N O input from Aboriginal women's
groups in this consultation - - reflects their generally dismissive
attitude to Aboriginal women."
Said Viola Thomas, speaking for the United Native
Nations in support of the lawsuit, "The problem of internalized
racism against Aboriginal women has existed since the
6
introduction of the Indian Act in 1876. This Act is a tool by the
federal government to divide and conquer our Aboriginal
Peoples. The Indian Act defines who our citizens are and it is
based on a patriarchal system that did not honour and respect
our matriarchal cultures. This system has forced our cultures to
not always act in ways that value or pay homage to Aboriginal
women. Because many married women leave their reserves to
go to their husband's reserves when they get married, they often
have to leave the community they have lived in with their
husband and children for many years, when their marriage
breaks up. This is just one example of how the Indian Act has
forced Aboriginal peoples to discriminate against our women."
Fay Blaney, speaking for the National Action Committee
on the Status of Women and the Aboriginal Women's Action
Network also supported the action. She said, "Colonialism and
historic injustices can easily be dismissed as the sins of our
great grandparents. But who w i l l be answerable for the
institutionalized racism that Aboriginal women endure today?
Is there any accountability for the systemic abuses which results
in our disenfranchisement from our cultures? Our banishment
from our homelands? The genocidal laws and policies of the
state are completely hostile to the perspectives and status of
Aboriginal woman. The actions of our leadership clearly
indicate that the patriarchal intentions of the colonial agenda
has been successful. The position taken by the Assembly of
First Nations in the B i l l C-31 discussions and the Constitutional
discussions are evidence of an ingrained patriarchal mentality.
I challenge our male-dominated leadership to return to our
traditions of honouring and respecting our women. Can they
support the B C N W S in this court challenge? I challenge our
"Indian Act Masters" to devise a meaningful process that
would end century long genocidal practices. After a l l ,
aboriginal women have human rights too."
Eileen O'Brian on behalf of D A W N Canada, added " A s
disabled women, including disabled aboriginal women, we
know how hard it is to fight against something that is wrong.
We are proud to support the B.C. Native Women's Society in its
action against the federal government.
The Press Conference announcing the lawsuit was
attended by B.C. Native Women Society, the United Native
Nations, the Aboriginal Women's Council, the Aboriginal
Women's Action Network, D A W N Canada, the National
Action Committee on the Status of Women, and the Vancouver
Status of Women.
-30Contact: Jane Gottfriedson, President of B.C. Native Women's
Society (250) 499-7897 or Barbara Findlay, Counsel for B.C.
Native Women's Society (604) 687-8752
MAY 1997
UBCIC NEWS
THE JOINT POLICY COUNCIL
W H A T IS IT A N D W H A T C A N IT D O FOR Y O U ?
European Parliament M E P
Condemns B.C. Forest Practices
Brussels, Belgium - April 17, 1997.
W H A T IS IT?
The Joint Policy Council is:
* YOUR VOICE at policy table discussions with the Provincial
Government on important issues that affect your community!
*YOUR VISION of building a government to government
relationship with the Province without sacrificing Aboriginal
title and Rights!
The JPC was established to provide a strong regional
voice for Nations who do not believe that the B.C. Treaty
Commissionrepresentstheir principles, beliefs, and interests.
UBCIC Chiefs Council meets regularly with Cabinet ministers
to negotiate a wide range of policy issues of urgent concern to
Indian Nations. Many communities are struggling with issues
related to roads, forestry, fisheries, health and welfare,
education, to name a few. Faced with dwindling resources, it
sometimes feels like we have no voice. It is more important than
ever to empower ourselves, to reaffirm our beliefs, and to make
sure that government hears us. The JPC is one way to do this.
WHAT CAN IT DO FOR YOU?
The JPC is one part of the UBCIC ALTERNATIVE to
the B.C. T R E A T Y process! The Union continues to lobby for
a nation-to-nation treaty process with the Federal Government
and has developed a COMPREHENSIVE F R A M E W O R K
T R E A T Y that would ensure that our Aboriginal Title and
Rights are NOT EXTINGUISHED!
UBCIC Chiefs Council and staff are working hard to
make sure that YOUR VOICE is heard and YOUR VISION is
realized, but the potential POWER of the Joint Policy Council
will really come from YOU!
K N O W L E D G E IS POWER! Ask your Chiefs Council or
Nationrepresentativeabout the UBCIC COMPREHENSIVE
F R A M E W O R K TREATY and the JOINT POLICY COUNCIL
mandate and activities. Call the UBCIC JPC Coordinator to
find out more or to provide ideas and information.
Help to make the JPC a successful forum for policy development
by learning about it and becoming involved. Make sure your
VOICE and VISION are expressed! Now more than everUNITED W E STAND-DIVIDED W E PERISH!
Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs
Paulette Regan, JPC Coordinator
Phone: (604) 684-0231 Fax: (604) 684-5726
MAY 1997
Today, Irene Soltwedel-Schafer, European Union M E P
(Member of European Parliament), released and in-depth report
condemning B.C. forest practices. It was delivered today to the
Canadian Diplomatic Mission to the European Union in
Brussels as well as various political advisors and journalists.
Entitled "Clear-cutting: forestry and landrights in
Canada," the 20 page report is the result of a 1995 Canadian
Government sponsored study tour originally intended to present
an image o f ' 'world-class logging'' to invited M E P ' s .
The report concluded that clear-cuts are still happening,
that the Forest Practices Code has failed, and that First Nations
still have no land rights, citing the 1995 Nuxalk Nation /Forest
Action Network Logging Blockade on K i n g Island as an
example. Among her many references is an anti-clear-cut
treatise drawn up by the New Brunswick Small Woodlot
Owners Association.
She also accuses the B.C. Treaty Commission process of
being a federal extinguishment policy which will remove all
rights of F i r s t Nations and pave the way for future
industrial exploitation.
FINAL ARGUMENTS START
IN GUSTAFSEN L A K E TRIAL
Landmark Decision Expected Soon
April 24,1997, VANCOUVER, Salish Territory - The longest and
most costliest court case in Canadian history, Regina v. Mary Jane
Pena et. al. known as the Gustafsen Lake trial, today began final
arguments at the special high-security court room in Surrey, B.C.
Prosecution and defence summations are expected to last for four to
five days meaning the jury may deliberate as soon as Wednesday of
next week.
Throughout this trial Canada's national police force, the
RCMP, have provided evidence that they conspired and carried out
"smear and disinformation" campaigns against the Sundance Defenders and their lawyer Dr. Bruce Clark. Peter Montague, Chief RCMP
Media Liaison Officer for British Columbia, was in the trial caught on
an internal RCMP "training" videotape as saying "Smear campaigns
are our specialty."
The Sundance defenders allege that many of the significant
events during the siege were staged or fabricated by the RCMP. The
RCMP have introduced little evidence to contradict the Sundancer's
allegations.
"The RCMP have been caught lying under oath on several
accounts throughout this trial which further exemplifies the
Sundancer's position that the RCMP fabricated numerous incidents
including the August 27, 1995, incident [where two RCMP officers
were alleged to have been ambushed and shot] to justify a kill at the
camp," said Tsepten Defence Committee Spokesperson Splitting the
Sky. "And we do not think the RCMP were acting alone in this. We
believe they were acting on instruction and with the approval of their
political masters - provincial and federal politicians such as B.C.'s
Attorney General, Ujjal Dosanjh."
7
UBCIC NEWS
RESOURCE CENTRE UPDATE
We
h a v e d i s c o v e r e d that not all of British C o l u m b i a is
c o v e r e d o n t h e C e n s u s reels that w e recently a c q u i r e d f o r
1881, 1 8 9 1 a n d 1 9 0 1 . W e s u s p e c t s o m e a r e a s of t h e
p r o v i n c e m a y h a v e b e e n i n c l u d e d in the c e n s u s for A l b e r t a
and/or t h e N W T . W e h a v e t w o c e n s u s c a t a l o g u e s o n order
from the N a t i o n a l A r c h i v e s w h i c h w e h o p e will h e l p u s sort it
out. If t h e r e a r e a r e a s of B . C . c o v e r e d o n reels w e d o not
h a v e , w e will o r d e r t h e s e r e e l s s o that o u r c e n s u s for B . C . is
as c o m p l e t e a s p o s s i b l e . W e a l s o s u s p e c t that there a r e
s o m e a r e a s o f the p r o v i n c e w h i c h t h e c e n s u s t a k e r s d i d not
c o v e r b e c a u s e o f barriers s u c h a s i n c l e m e n t weather, rugged
a c c e s s to r e m o t e a r e a s , etc.
W e h a v e two n e w v o l u n t e e r s in t h e R e s o u r c e C e n t r e .
Dorine C y r a n d A l m a P e t e r s a r e g o i n g to c o n t i n u e our project
to get brief r e c o r d s f o r all i t e m s in o u r P a u l C h a r t r a n d S p e c i a l
C o l l e c t i o n o n o u r a u t o m a t e d c a t a l o g u e . W e a l s o h o p e to hire
two s u m m e r s t u d e n t s with t h e h e l p of g o v e r n m e n t grants.
T h e s e s t u d e n t s will h e l p with a d d i t i o n a l c a t a l o g u i n g projects.
F o r a n y o n e w h o is c o m i n g to V a n c o u v e r to d o r e s e a r c h ,
the R e s o u r c e C e n t r e will h a v e e v e n i n g h o u r s in M a y a n d
J u n e t o p r o v i d e a c c e s s f o r t h e Institute o f I n d i g e n o u s
G o v e r n m e n t s t u d e n t s w h o t a k e s p r i n g s e m e s t e r c o u r s e s at
the IIG. T h e R e s o u r c e C e n t r e will b e o p e n late o n T u e s d a y s
a n d T h u r s d a y s until 8 p . m . f r o m t h e w e e k o f M a y 19th
through to t h e e n d o f J u n e . M o n d a y s , W e d n e s d a y s a n d
F r i d a y s w e will b e o p e n until 4 : 3 0 p . m .
S a r a h N i g h s w a n d e r will b e r e p l a c i n g S a r a h T o r s k y ,
our c a t a l o g u e r , w h e n s h e g o e s o n m a t e r n i t y l e a v e in J u n e . It
will be a b u s y s u m m e r training a n d s u p e r v i s i n g s u m m e r
students a n d h e l p i n g o u r n e w c a t a l o g u e r settle into her job.
In the next newsletter, w e will be a n n o u n c i n g acquisition
of n e w C D - R O M p r o d u c t s w h i c h will b e v e r y helpful t o
r e s e a r c h e r s . W e a r e setting u p a s e p a r a t e workstation f o r
t h e s e i n f o r m a t i o n d a t a b a s e s a n d will let y o u k n o w w h e n
everything is r u n n i n g s m o o t h l y a n d w e a r e a b l e to m a k e t h e m
available f o r u s e .
8
N U X A L K AND FOREST
ACTION NETWORK
STEAL B A C K TIMBER F R O M
U K TIMBER YARD
Embargo: 15:00 G M T ,
Wed, 9 April 1997
M A N C H E S T E R , U K - The Nuxalk First Nation will
' 'steal back'' Western Red Cedar from a six acre timber yard
which they accuse of handling stolen timber.
On Wednesday afternoon they will enter and ' 'ethically
shoplift" large planks of timber from the yard of one of the
largest timber importers i n the U K . They will hand the timber
in to Stretford police station, where they will ask the police to
charge the timber yard with handling stolen property.
Companies such as Interior and MacMillan Bloedel have
sent material to Manchester.
These forests are the traditional lands of the Nuxalk First
Nation. They depend on the forest for their livelihood for
fishing and for their cultural and spiritual survival. The Nuxalk
are a sovereign nation and have not given permission for the
extraction of timber from their lands. The Nuxalk consider that
timber taken from their lands without their consent is stolen.
The Nuxalk Nation are i n the U K to demand an
immediate recognition of their sovereignty and an immediate
end to the industrial logging on their land. The Nuxalk Nation
are asking U K timber trades to refuse to purchase any more
timber from their lands.
The Nuxalk will be helped by environmental activists
from Forest Action Network.
MAY 1997
UBCIC NEWS
AHOUSAHT BAND COUNCIL
STAKES RISING OVER ILLEGAL FISH FARM IN CLAYOQUOT SOUND
February 25, 1997 —
Chief Sam has given the
"If the province won't do its job, then we province until 5 pm, on
Ahousaht First Nations Chief
will exercise our sovereign right and act Wednesday to commit to firm
Councillor Sidney Sam vowed
on its behalf" - Chief Sidney Sam
today to enforce the province's
action on removing the fish. If
own requirement for removal of
there is no agreement in place,
fish from a salmon farm in Ahousaht traditional
the Ahousaht will enforce the government's order on
territory in Clayoquot Sound. The fish farm, operated
Thursday morning.
by Pacific National Group, is growing salmon illegally
Salmon farming is coming under increasingly
since its tenure expired in November.
scrutiny in B . C . since the start of the Salmon
" I f the province won't do its job, then we will
Aquaculture Review process undertaken by the province
exercise our sovereign right and act on its behalf," said
to assess the risks of salmon farming. A l l representatives
Chief Sam. B.C. Lands had ordered the company to
at the table other than those from industry and
remove the fish by January 31, and later extended the
government have expressed sharp concerns with the way
date to February 21. Both dates passed without action,
in which salmon fanning is presently practiced in B.C.
and now the province appears unwilling to take further
The chief concerns of fishermen, First Nations and
steps.
environmentalists include the threat of disease spreading
from exotic species of farmed salmon to wild salmon, the
The Ahousaht opposed renewal of the license
lack of regulation of drug use on salmon farms, and the
because of concerns over the negative impacts the farm
large amounts of concentrated fecal waste generated.
has had on wild salmon, herring, and shellfish in the area.
Since herring are now starting to spawn in
Contact: Chief Sidney Sam (250) 670-9563. For
Clayoquot, the Ahousaht view the provincial footinformation on the Salmon Aquaculture Review contact:
dragging as unacceptable given the potential loss to the
Howard Breen (250) 753-3459
resource.
12th Annual Intertribal Pow~Wow
Honouring Our Urban First Nations Families
Reclaiming Our Sacred Time and Space on the Pow-Wow Trail
May 9, 10, 11, 1997
Trout Lake Community Centre
3350 Victoria Drive, Vancouver, B.C.
ALCOHOL A N D D R U G FREE
Admission by Donation
Contacts: Wally Awasis (604) 874-9929 or Karen (604) 434-4246
Arts and Craft Tables contact Gord (604) 323-2568
MAY 1997
9
UBCIC NEWS
National Day of Action
Tsilhqot'in Nation supports B.C.
Native youth occupation of B.C.
Treaty Commission Office in
Vancouver.
April 18, 1997
The Tsilhqotin National
Government is in total
support of the occupation of
the British Columbia Treaty
Commission head office
boardroom in Vancouver by
about 30 members of the
Vancouver based Native
Youth Movement.
We are also in total
agreement with their
contention that the B . C .
Treaty Process is illegally
negotiating treaties with
B . C . Indians i n clear
violation of international law
that requires such treaty
negotiations to be conducted
only between national
sovereign governments and
indigenous nations [peoples].
They accuse the B C T C of
collaborating with 'socalled' native leaders of the
First Nations Summit for the
purpose of selling out the
rights of the native youth
throughout the Province of
B . C . So do we, the
Tsilhqotin National
Government.
The youth occupiers have indicated that they will respect
B C T C property during the occupation, and the Tsilhqotin
Nation advises that these youth occupiers of the B C T C
Boardroom must have their chosen forum to present their strong
message respected, and be provided with proper food and
services while they are guests of the B C T C . The B C T C will be
held fully responsible for any indignity or injury that may
happen to these Indian
representatives
NATIVE YOUTH MOVEMENT
resulting from B C T C initiated measures. We
April 25,1997 - On the 17th and 18th of April approximately 30
also call on the B C T C
Native Youth Movement members spent two days and a night occupying
to immediately open
the B . C . Treaty Commission office in downtown Vancouver.
the phone and fax lines
The occupation was in protest of the B.C. Treaty Process. The
so they can be
Native Youth Movement are 100% opposed to the treaty process. The
contacted by Indian
N Y M refused to leave until a meeting with the Treaty Commission and
nation organizations
the N Y M was set.
and their family
The Native Youth Movement stated that any Treaty Process that
members.
promotes the loss of our traditional homelands in any form is considered
T N G Deputy
treason. The Native Youth Movement reject the B C T C process and its
National Chief Ray
Nisga'a style settlement model. The Nisga'a people shall lose, 92% of
Hance said he is
their traditional homeland forever, i f the Nisga'a people ratify the
pleased that B.C.
agreement.
Native Youth have
With the assistance of Rene Taylor (an aboriginal legal services
become involved in the
lawyer in Vancouver), the date agreed upon by both parties was on or
issue of treaty making,
before A p r i l 25, 1997. This lack of commitment and deceitful
particularly by
wording of the agreement is unacceptable to the N Y M . We will hold the
protesting the
B C T C commissioners accountable to the commitment made to us as
fraudulent B.C. Treaty
Native Youth, by setting a firm meeting date.
Commission Process.
The N Y M and the B C T C have suggested a meeting date of May
"We
27,1997. The N Y M will hold the B C T C accountable to this date. Further
congratulate these
the N Y M would like to take this opportunity to warn the B C T C ; in the
young people who are
event (BCTC) continues to play games, the N Y M shall return and retaking this action for
occupy the offices of the BCTC.
the courage of their
-30convictions. We share
with them their sense
Contact: Monty Joseph (250) 493-3924 or
of
outrage at the way in
Skeena Reece (604) 688-1821
which the governments
The B C T C has further compromised internationally
recognized treaty making processes by conducting its
negotiations with Indian representatives who are not fully
mandated to do so by the Indian people they supposedly
represent.
The youth occupiers of the B C T C Boardroom have
echoed the position of the T N G that treaty negotiations can only
proceed if the Indian nation is solidly behind their leaders'
negotiation position. This means that members must be fully
informed about the issues and give their consent to their chosen
leaders to negotiate on their behalf.
of Canada and British Columbia are conspiring to deprive the
indigenous nations, by a deceitful and fraudulent process, of
territories and rights that are protected by international,
constitutional and indigenous law," he said.
Deputy National Chief Hance also issued a stern warning
to the B C T C about its treatment of the Native Youth Movement
emissaries who are presenting a valid grievance to the B C T C .
"We ask the B C T C to respect the occupants. These
young people personify the future of our nations. Every effort
must be made to listen to them and to understand what they
have to say. We ask you to do so. Freedom of communication
TNG PRESS RELEASE (Continued on Page 11)
10
SUMMER 1996
UBCIC NEWS
-April 17, 1997
SETON LAKE INDIAN BAND
Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs
April 17, 1997
Kalh wa7acw (Hello)
We welcome you to our territory!
We are stopping this train today to share an important message
with you. The land you are travelling through is the territory of
the St'at'imc People.
Fifteen years ago April 17, 1982, Queen Elizabeth II signed into
law the Constitution Act 1982 Section 35 of the Constitution;
recognize and affirms the Aboriginal and Treaty Rights of
Aboriginal peoples.
Despite this recognition and affirmation in the constitution, the
social and economic conditions of our people have not improved
over the past 15 years. Also, our people are excluded from the
amending formula in the constitution and therefore are denied
the opportunity to identify and define any further changes to
Section 35 to protect our collective Aboriginal and Treaty
Rights.
As you travel through our valley and further along in our
territory you will notice that B.C. Hydro has played a large role
in changing the face of the land. Y o u must realize that we
derive no benefit from this corporate giant.
PRESS S T A T E M E N T
Stl'atl'imx Territory, April 18, 1997
Chief Saul Terry, President of the Union of B.C. Indian
Chiefs, made these comments in support of the Native Youth
who are occupying the Treaty Commission Office to demand
changes to the process:
"The Union of B . C . Indian is proud of the Native Youth
Movement ( " N Y M " ) in their principled stand to refuse to
accept any treaties coming out of the B.C. Treaty Commission
Process. The Youth are taking action to protect the future of
their Peoples, and are demanding answers to questions which
profoundly affect their political, social and economic future in
their respective homelands."
" T h e N Y M is tired of the depressing situations
Indigenous Peoples find ourselves in, they are taking action to
ensure that any political solutions allow us to fulfill our
responsibilities and obligations as Indigenous Peoples to care
for and protect our land and rights for future generations.
"The youth are seeking the truth. The Union of B.C.
Indian Chiefs urges the Treaty Commission Office to listen to
the N Y M and recognize their right to lead us. It is, afterall,
their future which we are fighting for."
Contact, Chief Saul Terry, 250-256^1125.
TNG PRESS RELEASE (Continued from page 10)
Our community has received no compensation of any type for
the cutblocks that you will see on the opposite shore of Seton
Lake. For this reason, we feel the Federal government must
reconsider their decision to not act upon the recommendations
laid out in the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples.
The rail road tracks this '"Budd C a r ' ' is travelling over is our
land. It was taken without permission and knowledge. As you
see the tracks interfere with our use of the shore line of the
lakes within our territory.
We thank you for listening to us today, enjoy the rest of your
journey.
Hu7malh (farewell)
Chief Garry John
On behalf of Seton Lake Band
SUMMER 1996
must be assured to them. Efforts to prevent the education of the
public on these vitally important issues will only lead to more
confrontation and trouble i f any of the protesters should be
hurt."
" I f the occupants call for help, the Tsilhqot'in National
Government will respond by urging Tshilqot'in Nation
members to attend in strength. Let it be clearly understood that
this action has been caused not by our young protesters, but by
governments that continue to refuse to face the reality of
resurgent indigenous nations who ask those governments to
obey their own laws and those of the international community
of sovereign states," he said.
-30Contact: Ray Hance,
T N G Deputy National Chief
(250) 392-3918
11
UBCIC NEWS
A Message from Indian
and Northern Affairs Canada
Expiry Dates Established for Certificates of
Indian Status
The purpose of issuing Certificates of Indian Status is to
verify that the cardholder is a registered Indian. Certificates of
Indian Status are only useful if the photographs and physical
descriptions are current. It has come to our attention that some
registered Indians have been denied services because some
service providers have questioned whether their status cards are
still valid.
To remedy this situation, it has been decided that status
cards issued to individual under the age of eighteen will have an
expiry date of two years and status cards issued to individuals
over the age of eighteen will have an expiry date of five years.
This policy is effective immediately.
It should be noted that the five year expiry date does not
mean that the cardholder ceases to be a registered Indian at the
end of the five year period. It only means that i f the cardholder
intends to use the status card to obtain certain services and
benefits, it must be renewed every five years.
It should also be noted that all previous versions of the
status card will continue to be valid until January 1, 2000.
Therefore, it is very important that your renew your current
status card on or before January 1, 2000.
Should you have any questions or concerns, please
contact your Band or the Indian Registry and Bands Lists
Office, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, B.C. Region, at
(604) 666-2059
OVIDEMECREDI(Continuedfrom page 4)
Thirdly, we will focus on people l i k e M r . D i o n , the
minster o f reconciliation, the minister of reconciliation who
forgets that the aboriginal people exist and his only priority is
what's happening in the province of Quebec. So we will be
focusing on him as well in the next few weeks.
Finally, Senator Fairbairn, who has, I understand, a very
powerful influence on the Prime Minister, one of his key
advisors in his inner circle of friends. A n d on that score, I
might say that the students from the University of Calgary have
occupied his office yesterday and the Senator has agreed to meet
with them today. Depending on the outcome of these
discussions with the Senator, the students are prepared to cany
on with their protests involving her.
We will be inviting our communities across the country
to try to do things creatively with Canadians in general where
we don't create any annoyances with anybody but we try to
build public support for our issues. So what we're asking for
now is not so much slowing down traffic, which we did in 18
locations yesterday, but what we're asking for is for people to do
some cultural events, some educational sessions, and to involve
not just the politicians i n their area, like the municipal
12
Northern Ontario M.P. and Minister of Indian
Affairs and Northern Development Ronald A.
Irwin Announces Retirement From Federal
Politics
Sault Ste. Marie (April 4, 1997) - Minister of Indian
Affairs and Northern Development and Member of Parliament
for Sault Ste. Marie Ronald A . Irwin today announced that he
will not be seeking re-election in the next federal election.
' "This is a personal choice that I have made and I am
looking forward to being able to enjoy more time with my
family and friends. It has been an honour for me to serve the
government of Prime Minster Jean Chretien and the residents of
Sault Ste. Marie," said Ron Irwin.
Mr. Irwin continued, " I wish to thank my wife Margaret
and our children for their wonderful support and confidence,
which over the years has made this challenging experience so
fulfilling. I would also like to thank the people of Sault Ste.
Marie whom I have had the pleasure of representing as both
their Mayor and Member of Parliament."
Ron Irwin was first elected to the House of Commons in
1980, where he served one term. He was re-elected in the
general election of October 1993. Prime Minister Jean Chretien
appointed Ron Irwin to the federal cabinet November 4, 1993 as
the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development.
' 'I would like to thank the Prime Minister for his
friendship and guidance. I would also like to thank my
colleagues in the House of Commons who have encouraged me
and supported the work I have done. To the Elders, Chiefs,
Aboriginals, Metis, and Inuit peoples who have befriended me
and taught me, meegwetch."
For information contact:
Cate McCready, Minister's Office (819) 997-0002
politicians, but the support groups and the human rights
organizations, the church organizations, and to try to build
support for all our people i n that manner.
Apparently I forgot one very important individual who is
going to be the focus of our attention as well, and that is the
Honourable Allan Rock, the Minister of Justice. Because in
effect, what we're asking for from the Canadians is justice. He
himself is guilty i n terms of diminishing our treaty and
aboriginal rights when he introduced the gun control legislation
without due regard to the treaty rights of our people, and even
though we spoke to him on numerous occasions to discourage
him from passing the law i n the manner that he did, he refused
to listen to our people. So he will also be the focus of our
attention in the next coming weeks.
As a strategy, when the election is called, whenever that
is, and when these people go out to seek the support of our
people, we will dog them, we will follow them and we will do
whatever we can to draw attention to the plight of our people
and also try to get the support of the general public in terms of
ensuring that they vote for the candidates that are sensitive to
the needs and the issues of aboriginal people and that they hold
the current government accountable for its inactions.
MAY 1997
UBCIC NEWS
Institute of Indigenous Government
Extension Programs
EXTENSION
PROGRAMS
The Institute of Indigenous Government is committed
to expanding extension and off-campus programming to
enhance First Nation students access to our unique education
program in British Columbia, Canada and around the world.
Our goal is to deliver up to 80% of our courses "off campus" in
regional centres and Indigenous communities through the
extension program and by innovative distance learning
strategies.
Rather than sending students to a post-secondary
institution, which is usually located in urban settings, our
instructors can be sent to communities to deliver credited and
non-credited courses offered through our extension programs.
This arrangement allows students to remain in the home
community, close to family, friends and employment.
The E G is also committed to provide communitybased quality programs to all students wherever their home
communities may be located. There are presently two
extension sites in operation to date. Thefirstextension sites
are located in Saanich and Lillooet, B C .
We are anticipating additional sites at Duncan, the
William Head Correctional Centre, Lytton, Mount Currie B C
and in the Yukon Territory. Anticipated start up is aimed
for the F a l l semester of 1997.
SAANICH
EXTENSION
PROGRAM
This extension site was established in the Spring of
1996. This arrangement enables First Nations students from
the Saanich Nation, and the surrounding areas, to access
instruction, student development workshops, and community
support while pursuing their post-secondary studies.
Students at the Saanich site are enrolled part-time and
full-time in either the Certificate in Indigenous Government
Studies (30 credits) or the Associate of Arts Degree i n
Indigenous Government Studies (60 credits). The foundation
courses are being offered on an on-going basis to allow for new
applicants.
For more information on the Saanich Extension program,
contact: Paul Sam, IIG Saanich Extension Co-ordinator
Phone:(250) 652-5784 Fax:(250) 544-0538
LILLOOET EXTENSION
PROGRAM
The students at the Lillooet Extension Program are
working full-time in the community while attending six hours
of instruction one day per week. For example, IGST 101 will
alternate with I G A D 101 every other Monday. This
arrangement allows the students to remain working in their
community and stay close to family and friends.
As student enrolment increases the foundation courses
and the four principal areas of specialization will be offered to
MAY J 997
meet the demand. Evening and/or day classes can be arranged.
For more information on this exciting educational
opportunity in the Lillooet area, contact:
Marilyn Napolean,
IIG Lillooet Extension Co-ordinator,
Lillooet Tribal Council
Phone: (250) 256-7523
Fax:(250) 256-7119
ELDERS & RESOURCE
PEOPLE
Elders from the community are providing cultural,
social and spiritual guidance for the students. Their input into
Indigenous education assures that Indigenous control is being
reflected in the implementation of instruction, course
development, workshops, and student support. Elders also,
actively participate with the delivery of symposiums, workshops
and c u l t u r a l events w h i c h fully reflect indigenous
philosophy, values and experience.
Community members are also utilised to enhance
and aid in the instruction of our courses, symposiums and
workshops. To sit in on any of the Extension courses, please
contact the co-ordinators for class time and schedules.
For information on Extension Programs in your area,
contact Jennie Blankinship, Director of Extension Programs at
(604) 602-9555 or Fax (604) 602-3432.
list
Annual Provincial
E l d e r s C o n f e r e n c e '97
Okanagan Nation Elders
August 12, 13 & 14, 1997
Penticton Indian Band
Cultural & Health Workshops
Entertainment / Special Events
Special Guest: Tom Jackson
For more information contact the Penticton Indian Band
(250) 493-0048
13
UBCIC NEWS
UNITED NATIVE NATIONS
The Union Mailbox
Congratulations to the Board of Directors of Local #133
President - Margaret Prevost, Nimpkish
Vice President - Fred Arrance, Cree
Treasurer - Glen Campbell, Musqueam
Secretary - James Shorty, Yukon Territory
April 2, 1997
To whom it may concern:
HSA is a union of workers in both the health and
community sectors in the province of British Columbia.
In 1994, our members established two $500.00
scholarships to assist aboriginal students in the province of B.C.
who are pursuing education in a H S A field that would lead to a
recognized certification, degree or diploma. Thank you for your
attention to this and your assistance in "getting the message
out".
For more information about our scholarship and or to
obtain a scholarship application form please Contact CarmenAnne Menegozza at the Health Sciences Association of B.C. @
(604) 439-0994.
Sincerely,
Carmen - Anne Menegozzo
Senior Labour Relations Officer - Education & OH&S
H E A L T H SCIENCES ASSOCIATION OF B.C.
April 22, 1997
BOARD MEMBERS:
Marlene Trick, Tsimshian
Florence Hackett, Coaishes / Homalko
Norman Mark, Sechelt
Ron Chevrier, Algonquin
Nigel Morin, Metis
Hector Hill, Gitksan
THE HASTINGS RESERVATION HAS ITS OWN VOICE!!
Call Blue Jeanne for more information at (604) 688-1821
H E A L I N G O U R SPIRIT
B. C. First Nations AIDS Society
On June 7th, 1997 Barb McKinnon and I will be joining
The Great W a l k from Gold River to Tahsis - a total of 63.5
kilometers.
Please open your hearts and wallets and make a pledge to
support our efforts. A l l donations will be given to Healing Our
Spirit, B.C. First Nations AIDS Society HIV+ Fund.
Contact: Catherine Blackstock, Executive Director
(604) 983-8774
Dear Sirs:
March 19, 1997
We would like to thank-you for your past help i n
advertising our Pow-Wow. Our Pow-Wows have been a success
in the past, helping to show seven to ten thousand peoples of all
cultures the First Nations traditions. Due to our Pow-Wow
being postponed last year, we want to ensure this year's a
success by advertising to the fullest.
We depend entirely on donations and a small grant from
the City of Vancouver, to assist with the expenses. Volunteers
provide the services to stage the event, which includes a free
community feast on Saturday, along with a Mother's Day
Breakfast at Cedar Cottage on Sunday Morning. We will try to
feed as many people as possible.
Any donations are greatly appreciated. Charitable tax
receipts are available upon request.
For further information you can reach me at 434-4246.
A l l my relations
Karen E. Soldan
Co-Chairman
Cedar Cottage, Trout Lake
Traditional Pow-Wow Committee
14
Dear Collegue:
Immunization can keep children safe from many serious
illnesses, such as measles, mumps, rubella and polio. But children
need to complete their full schedule of shots to be protected. On time,
every time.
That's why the Canadian Public Health Association, in
partnership with the Canadian Medical Association, the Canadian
Paediatric Society and Health Canada, has launched the National
Immunization Awareness Program.
Children's entertainers Sharon, Lois & Bram have volunteered
their time to be featured in print public service announcements, as well
as on posters and radio spots, for this major, national campaign.
We ask your support for this campain by running the enclosed
publice service announcement in your publication. Four-colour
separations to run the announcement in colour are available upon
request.
Thank you for helping to send this important health message to
many Candians, particularly the parents of young children.
Sincerly,
Robert Burr
Director, Public Affairs and Communications
(613)725-3769
MAY 1997
UBCIC NEWS
MAP OF THE SOVEREIGN INDIGENOUS NATIONS
TERRITORIAL BOUNDARIES: JUNE, 1993
The Union of B . C . Indian Chiefs' map of the Sovereign Indigenous Nations Territorial Boundaries is the only contemporary
map that accurately shows the traditional tribal territories of the 23 Indian Nations in British Columbia. The six colour map measures
28" x 36".
The tribal territories are the homelands of distinct Nations, within which their respective peoples share a common language,
culture and traditional forms of political and social organization. These homelands have been occupied by the Indian Nations since
time immemorial. Up to the present, the Indian Nations in British Columbia have never surrendered their ownership oftheir homelands
(aboriginal title), nor have they surrendered their original sovereignty as nations to govern their homelands (inherent jurisdiction).
Information on the territorial boundaries was compiled by the Union's research portfolio and President's office between July,
1990 and April, 1993 from archival research and information provided by elders, chiefs, and tribal councils. Chief Saul Terry, President
of the Union and a graduate of the Vancouver College of Art (now the Emily Carr College of Art and Design), prepared the working
drafts for the map.
Design and cartography for the June, 1993 map was done by David Sami, chief cartographer of Multi Mapping Ltd. in
Vancouver, B.C., using a 1:2,000,000 scale base-map from the Surveys and Environment Branch of the British Columbia Ministry
ofEnvironment, Lands and Parks. A l l territorial boundaries shown on the map are subject to further revision, as additional information
becomes available. Contact the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs at (604) 684-0231 for ordering information.
28" x 36" / Scale: 1:2 000 000 / Six Colours
MAY J997
15
UBCIC NEWS
UNION OF B.C. INDIAN CHIEFS
SUBSCRIPTION
FORM
NAME:
FOR OFFICE USE O N L Y
DATE RECEIVED:.
CHEQ/M.O. #
EXPIRY DATE:
ADDRESS:
POSTAL/ZIP CODE:
PROVINCE/STATE/COUNTRY:
1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION RATES
NewsLETTER
NewsCLIPPING
Member Bands:
Individual:
$75.00
$35.00
Individual: $100.00
T O T A L AMOUNT ENCLOSED $
Please make cheque or money order payable to: UNION OF B.C. INDIAN CHIEFS, 5THFLOOR-342
VANCOUVER, B.C., V6B 1A1
CHIEFS
MASK
WATER STREET,
BOOKS
Owned and operated by the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs - 5th Floor 342 Water Street in Gastown (604) 684-0231
N O W S E R V I N G T H E INSTITUTE OF INDIGENOUS G O V E R N M E N T
ARTS & CRAFTS
-JEWELLRY
• ABORIGINAL
- POTTERY
ISSUES
• INTERNATIONAL
INDIGENOUS
-PRINTS
• LAND CLAIMS
- T-SHIRTS
- LEATHER WORK
•ART
-MASKS
• CHILDREN'S BOOKS
ACCEPTED
CONSIGNMENTS
• FIRST NATIONS
CONSIGNMENTS
ACCEPTED
BOOKS
- BEADWORK
•POETRY
- POW WOW MUSIC
CALL, WRITE OR
DROP IN TODAY!
16
- AND MUCH
MORE!
MAY 1997
Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs
NEWSLETTER
Chiefs Announce "Voice of the Peoples" gathering
commerating anniversary of Mohawk Crisis.
MAY 1997
On July 11 & 12, 1997, the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs, Stl'atl'imx Nation and Cayoose Creek Indian Band will
co-host the "Voice of the Peoples" gathering in Cayoose Creek, B.C.
his year, Chiefs Council
of the Union of B.C.
Indian Chiefs decided that the
citizens in every community
must have the opportunity to
express their concerns on the
issues affecting their well-
IN THIS ISSUE...
2. President's Message
. Penticton Indian Band
lao
. Press Conference with
Ovide Mecredi
5. Specific Claims Update
ey
6. B.C. Native Women's.-
Society
7. MEP condemns BC
Forestry Practices
8. Resource Center Update
9. 12 Annual International
Pow-Wow
10. National Day of Action
12. Ipwin Announces
Retirement
13. Insitutute of Indigenous
Government
4. UBCIC Mailbox
MAY 1997
being. Therefore, they directed
the U.B.C.1.C. to help facilitate
a Gathering on July ll & 12,
1997 at the Cayoose Creek
Camp Grounds, home of the
Stl’atl’imx Nation in Lillooet,
B.C. The discussions and
decisions must come from the
people, therefore, communities
will be asked to help organize
the event.
Federal Government’s
strategies to undermine the
inherent nights of Indian people
is being conducted without
adequate communication with
citizens of Indian nations.
Politically in British Columbia,
decisions are being made to
force Indian Bands into self-
government agreements which
will extinguish the Aboriginal
Title and Rights and assimilate
bands into mainstream
Canadian society. How many
people understand that well
enough toapree to this process?
This is one reason why we must
gather together to become
informed and develop plans of
action to solve this problem if
we hope to contain our political
rights as Indian nations into
the future.
Itis time to be heard and
as Nations of people find ways
to defend and protect our lands
and resources. The “*Voice of
the Peoples’’ will bring many
people into a political action to
express major concerns of the
communities. The challenge is
for Chiefs and Council and their
people to take up the call for
political action by holding
information meetings before
the Gathering and develop short
and long term goals on
Aboriginal Title and Rights.
Our past Elders, Political
Leaders, Spiritual Leaders and
Peoples had visions for Indian
Government all over the North
and South American continent
- it is up to us to reaffirm our
responsibility to care for and
protect the land and build on
the dreams they left for us to
fulfill, We want the reservations
to remain holistic and
productive but how can that
remain intact in negotiating co-
existence with the Canadian
people?
We want communities
that are clean, safe, wholesome
and provide opportunities for
the families but the social ills
appear to overpower any
meaningful efforts we put into
health and education services.
There are a hundred and one
organizations existing just on
land claims and they interfere
with the affairs of the
communities. This type of
interference confuses people
and affects good decisions that
have to be made.
We cannot ask the
citizens of Indian nations to
join in this Gathering just to
talk - it is time for action. As
Chiefs weare prepared to listen.
€
Joint Policy Council
What is it and what can it
do for you? p.7
back timber. p.8
Ahousaht Takes Aim at
Illegal Fish Farm. p.9
Seton Lake Indian Band
Applies the Brakes to the
"Budd Car"p.11
21st Annual Provincial
Elders Conference '97 p.13
UBCIC NEWS
Chief Saul Terry, X'wisten
v ood evening Committee Members of the Standing
Committee on Aboriginal Affairs. I am permitting
myself to be transmitted to you via this rather impersonal if not
depersonalizing video teleconference technology. Permit me to
introduce myself.
I have been elected to the Council of my community for the
last twenty-four years. Between 1978 and 1983 I was elected Vice
President of the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs. The Chiefs, my
colleagues, have honored me to be their President in the last
fourteen years. I cite these facts not to brag but to illustrate that I
have witnessed many politicians from your institutions come and
go without addressing the issues that plague our Peoples between
your elections. I am here, this day, to reiterate that there is a better
way than Bill C-79 to improve Indian/Canada relations. Some of
those ideas are touched upon in the Assembly of First Nations’
presentation by National Chief Ovide Mercredi. Therefor I want
it put on record for you as the Committee on Aboriginal Affairs, for
the Prime Minister, the Honorable John Chretien, for my fellow
Chiefs and especially for the Peoples in our terntories that the
Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs concur with the message the Assembly
of First Nations presented to you on March 6, 1997.
On another occasion I appeared before the Standing
Committee on Aboriginal Affairs on behalf of the Union of B.C.
Indian Chiefs in March 1991 because I felt strongly about the state
of siege over our people in Indian country. That year I was
heartened to witness actions taken by the Mohawk peoples in
defending their territory and at that time I said to Committee
Members: time and again we as Chiefs have to call your attention
to the crisis situations facing our people in Canada. I am sorry to
say that little has changed in the past few years.
I also looked at the Discussion Notes on the Indian Act
produced by the Department of Indian & Northern Affairs in 1971
in which they state that ““The Indian Act represents special
legislation taking precedence over provincial legislation which the
Parliament of Canada considers is essential to the needs of the
Indian people not only as a safeguard to proiect their treaty and
property rights, but as a means of promoting their advancement.”’
If indeed Parliament terms the Indian Act as special legislation it
must be for good reason. That reason stems from Indian-Crown
relations, a special relationship out of which arises lawful obligations
for the Government of Canada respecting Indian Nations. It is
wrong for any Minister to make changes to this special legislation
for political expediency unless our people are fully informed and
Messa gre
Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs
Submission on The Indian Act
Optional Modification Act (Bill C-79) to Standing
Committee On Aboriginal Affairs & Northern
Development - Vancouver, B.C. March 11, 1997.
From
the President
"The people of Canada and Our CiLizZens
in our homelands. must know the irue source —
of their: political disempowerinent, social
dispatr, poverty andspritaldrsulusionment ‘a
: 7
through our collective free will give our consent. After all, there
are Treaties and the Trust obligation which must be lived up to -
by both parties- your government and our governments.
It is hard to believe that any Minister placed in a position of
honor and trust would deliberately try to lead our people down a
path riddled with mine fields targeting our Aboriginal and Treaty
Rights. The Minister’s unilateral action compounds the mistrust
and uncertainty which now exist in our communities. Ican say with
confidence that the deliberate sequence has led us to this day and
which one again prompts me to sound the alarm to protect the
Aboriginal Title and Rights of the people. The people of Canada
and our citizens in our homelands must know the true source of
their political disempowerment, social dispair, poverty and spiritual
disillusionment.
For your information, in 1986 the Auditor-General criticized
the Department of Indian Affairs’ land management program.
What created the problem we are having now is the fact that the
Department decided to change the way they do business with
Indian Bands to avoid possible litigation from First Nations
because of the Guerin Decision. The fact is the Department sought
input from Chiefs to improve on the land management program
and Chiefs responded because we know this issue well. But this was
not good enough for the Department who instead added a whole
range of studies under the ‘*Lands, Revenues and Trust Review.”’
Millions of dollars were spent (41,000,000 in our estimation) on
that process and in the end all of it was shelved except for the
Chartered Land Management Proposal, Indian Gas and Oil and
Monies.
These proposals have been worked and reworded because
our Chiefs would not endorse them. It is now called the ““Optional
Land Management Proposal For Specific First Nations’’ or Bill C-
75. Itis geared towards just 13 Indian Bands. It played a large part
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
(Continued on page 3)
2
MAY 1997
UBCIC NEWS
Penticton Indian Band
Press Statement
April 17, 1997 - Elders and members of the Penticton
Indian Band, at a community meeting last night, directed the
Penticton Indian Band Council to issue a public statement to the
effect that:
“*As a direct result of Fraser Martin’s threat to sue the
Penticton Indian Band or either of the Similkameen Bands if
the Bands acquire an interest in the Apex Ski Resort; the
Penticton Indian Band has abruptly abandoned its efforts to seek
a peaceful resolution of the Apex Ski Resort by way of entering
into a joint-venture arrangement with one of the six investor
groups who have indicated an interest in acquiring the ski
resort.
In addition, the Penticton Indian Band takes this
opportunity to serve notice that its membership shall actively
renew their commitment and efforts to fully protect the
environment within the Apex Ski Resort area.’’ The Penticton
Indian Band finds these current circumstances to be extremely
regrettable.
We, like the six investor groups have invested a great
deal of time, effort and expense in our attempts to negotiate a
joint-venture arrangement that would allow for the long-term
operation and stability of the Apex Ski Resort.
Further, we would like to remind all parties that we have
made every effort to seek a peaceful resolution to this long-
standing dispute. At the outset, we negotiated and signed, in
good faith, the Initial Agreement which contained the necessary
provisions to settle the Apex Ski Resort/Penticton Indian Band
dispute. The Initial agreement was signed by three Provincial
Government Cabinet Ministers. On August 30, 1995 the
Province ‘‘breached’’ the Initial Agreement and “‘walked
away’ from the Initial Agreement.
Subsequent to court proceedings and the imposition of an
injunction directing members of the PIB to refrain from
impeding traffic on Green Mountain Rd., the members of the
PIB have respected the court injunction. Finally, in an act of
‘good-will’ the Penticton Indian Band allowed the Province to
repair and pave Green Mountain Road last October in return for
the Provinces commitment to undertake a full scale
environmental assessment of the Seven Peaks area. To
date, no such commitment has been made by the province.
Again, the Penticton Indian Band finds it extremely
Tegrettable that, in spite of our best efforts to avoid further
conflict, the irresponsible and selfish actions of one individual
and the continued bungling of the Provincial government, the
entire economy of the South Okanagan has been placed in
jeopardy
Chief Stewart Phillip, Okanagan Nation
(250) 493-3924 / 490-5166
MAY 1997
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
(Continued from page 2)
in prompting the Minister to amending the Indian Act.
The Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs opposes any attempt
by the Canadian Government to diminish the unceded
land base of our Peoples.
We have suggested a Treaty with Canada ona
Nation to Nation basis which promises long Political,
Social and Economic benefits for our Peoples. The
problem we have with the present process is that the
trust relationship we have with the Crown is being
changed arbitrarily. The Minister is refusing to hear
the options we have.
In conclusion, the approach Minister Irwin has
taken raises many serious socio-economic questions.
It is a grave understatement to allude to the Optional
Modification Act changes as cosmetic or superficial.
Ifallowed to proceed they shall profoundly continue to
affect our Peoples’ Political, Social, Economic, Cultural
and Spiritual existence. Lu
Ls)
Penticton Indian Band
PRESS RELEASE
March 4, 1997--Today, the Westbank First nation held
negotiations with the Federal and Provincial government
officials with respect to Westbank Indian Band’s involvement in
the British Columbia Treaty Commission (BCTC) Process.
Penticton Indian Band Councillors Joan Phillip and
Pierre Kruger attended this meeting and formally registered the
Penticton Indian Band’s opposition to the Westbank First
Nation’s involvement in the B.C. Treaty Commission process,
for the following reasons:
1. That the Okanagan Traditional Territory is indivisible. No
single community such as Westbank First Nation, has the right
to negotiate a portion of Okanagan Territory;
2. Further that, the Westbank First nation requires the consent
of the remaining six (6) Okanagan Nation communities, as
follows:
Okanagan Indian Band, Penticton Indian Band, Osoyoos
Indian Band, Upper Similkameen Indian Band, Lower
Similkameen Indian Band, Upper Nicola Indian Band.
Under no circumstances will the Penticton Indian Band
allow this fraudulent process to continue. If the Westbank First
Nation continues to pursue this fraudulent Treaty precess, the
Penticton Indian Band shall be forced to sue the Federal
Government, the Province of B.C., the B.C. Treaty
Commission, and the Westbank First Nation.
-3G-
Contact : Councillor Joan Phillip
(250) 493-3924 or (250) 493-0048
UBCIC NEWS
Press Conference with Ovide Mecredi of
Assembly of First Nations - April 18, 1997
obvious to my people and the Chiefs
* across the country that the Prime
Minister still refuses to address our
people’s needs and desires for reform in
this country. All that we wanted from
him yesterday was to agree to meet with
the Chiefs and himself to begin a
dialogue on the Royal Commission. We
never asked him to state any position on
any recommendation. We just simply
asked him to meet with us to begin a
dialogue on how we’re going to work
together on the recommendations.
And we're not naive. We have
been around many years too, we know
how government works. And we’ve
never said we agree with all the
recommendations. We've said we agree
with the report in principle. It’s a
blueprint for reform, it’s a foundation for
negotiating with the government of
Canada and the provinces a new
relationship, a better life for the First
Nations across this country. We’re not
expecting the Government of Canada to
come and tell us at the very initial
meeting we agree with all 440
recommendations.
But what we are expecting of
them is to show good faith so that they
give some hope to our people and the
good faith that we’re expecting from
them is to agree to sit down with us on a
continuing basis to discuss the
recommendations, to try and reach a
consensus on the contents of the report
4} t’s quite obvious to me and will be
for implementation. And the
implementation can take the form of
immediate changes, the implemenation
cant take the form of long-term changes.
But we are prepared to discuss with the
Prime Minister and the premiers how
this can be accomplished over time.
And I repeat by saying that I am
very disappointed that the Prime
Minister is dismissing that simple
request to meet with us, and is thereby
ignoring our demands for reform in this
country. So I’m here to say to him and
to the Canadian people that we will
escalate the protests, the rallies, and the
political action that we started yesterday,
that we will do this as long as we have to
until such time as the Prime Minister
agrees to meet with the Chiefs across this
country in a meeting convened jointly by
himself and the Assembly of First
Nations.
I’ve already talked to my national
executive and we have agree to maintain
pressure on the federal goverment. But
this time I wanted to be very clear to the
Canadian people that what we will do is
not to target the Canadians. We don’t
want to inconvenience the Canadian
people themselves. It is not the
Canadians in this country who are
holding back progress; it’s the Pime
Minister, it’s the federal government.
So our strategy involves the
following elements: First, we will be
inviting all the premiers to join forces
with the Chiefs and the Assembly of
First Nations in encouraging the Prime
Minister to convene a meeting with the
people that I represent so that we can
begin dialogue with the federal
government.
Secondly, we will be advising the
premiers to also indicate their
willingness to sit down with the Prime
Minister and the aboriginal people to
begin discussions on the report itself,
because one of the recommendations of
the Royal Commission is for the Prime
Minister to convene a meeting of
himself, the premiers, and the aboriginal
leaders for discussions on the Royal
Commission.
We will target specific individuals
in the Government of Canada for our
political protests. That includes the
Prime Minister himself because he is
ultimately responsible for the lack of
progress on Indian Affairs and Indian
policy this country. It is his government
that is making the people poorer than
they were when the Conservatives were
in power, and it is his government that
has made all these enlightened promises
that he failed to deliver on, and it is his
government that’s refusing to sit down
with the Chiefs and talk about the Royal
Commission. So we’ll be focusing on
him specifically as the Prime Minister.
In addition, we will target Paul
Martin, the minister who is responsible
for all the cutbacks in this country, the
person that we personally hold
responsible for all the pain and suffering
in our communities because of the
cutbacks that he has implemented in
order to meet the desires of the business
community at the expense of the poor in
this country.
OVIDE MECREDI (Continued on page 12)
ROTISKENRAKETE WARRIOR SOCIETY
On Apmil 21, 1997, the Rotiskenrakete Warrior Society from different territories within the Kanienkehaka (Mohawk) met to
discuss the recent conflict between the Seneca Nation of Indian and the New York State Police and New York State
Department of Taxation. The Rotiskenrakete are closely monitoring the situation and are in contact with our Seneca broth-
ers, According to Kaienerekowa (Great Law of Peace) the Seneca are a brother to the Kanienkehaka. As the mend of the
Kanienkehaka, it is our duty by Law to stand and assist our Seneca brothers in their time of need.
The Rotiskenrakete are in full support of the position the Seneca Nation of Indians have taken in opposition of taxation in the
sovereign Seneca Territories.
We encourage all Onkwehonwe people to show their support for the Seneca People. Multiply this Press Release and send it out.
MAY 1997
UBCIC NEWS
Specific Claims Research Program
Update
Record Group 10
Anyone involved in research related to aboriginal peoples
knows how complicated and time-consuming the work can be.
There are many sources to consult and the records are not always
easy to find. Researchers who undertake projects that involve the
use of government documents may be obliged to look through
records created by a variety of government departments to find the
information they need. The starting point for this type of research
is often the records of the Department of Indian Affairs, with either
active records held at the Department or historical files held at the
National Archives of Canada.
Record Group 10, or RG 10, is the designation
given by the National Archives to records created by the Department
of Indian Affairs and transferred to the Archives. RG 10 is the
largest record group at the National Archives relating to native
issues and is generally the first stop for most researchers. The
original order of the records is maintained by the Archives which
means that researchers must rely on the Inventory and finding
aids, created by archivists who specialise in RG 10, to help them
locate pertinent files. Finding individual documents within RG 10,
or within any large body of records, cannot be done in one step.
Researchers must narrow the search by moving from the Inventory
to individual finding aid lists, then to volumes (the term used for
the storage boxes), on to files, and finally to documents—all the
while bearing in mind changes the Department made over time to
its filing systems and administrative jurisdictions.
Within the RG 10 Inventory records descriptions are
divided into four broad groupings: Pre-Confederation Headquarters’
records; Post-Confederation Headquarters’ records; Field Office
Records; and Miscellaneous Land records. Each one of these
groupings is broken down into sub-groups within the Inventory to
help researchers narrow their search.
RG 10 records are stored at the National Archives in
Ottawa as well as in regional Records Centres across Canada.
Records created by the Department of Indian Affairs in British
Columbia have, since 1984-85, been transferred to the National
Archives at the Vancouver Federal Records Centre in Burnaby.
Many ofthe RG 10 records stored in Ottawa have been microfilmed
and are available through inter-institutional loan.
The UBCIC Resource Centre holds a comprehensive
collection of RG 10 microfilm including copies of the Inventory
and many of the most useful finding aids. Through its Research
Department, the Union periodically offers workshops which look
at RG 10 in detail and allow researchers to gain first-hand
experience using this complex record group.
Kwakiutl District Council
March 8, 1997
The Cabinet
Province of British Columbia
Parliament Buildings
Victoria, B.C. V8V 1X8
Dear Premiers and Ministers,
Re: Deer and Eagle Island Settlement Agreement
In reference to the above, it has been brought to our
attention that a negotiated Settlement Agreement has been
reached on this long outstanding issue between the Kwakiutl
Band, Halcan Logging Ltd. and the Province of British
Columbia.
As you may know these Islands are an integral part of
the Kwakiutl Douglas Treaty and continues to be an important
food and recreation area, not only for the Kwakiutl but also for
the surrounding non-Aboriginal community. It is also a burial
site in pre-contact and contact times.
We understand that the Province has displayed a great
deal of patience in coming to this agreement over the past ten
years. You are to be congratulated for that patience.
We understand that Canada is prepared to fast track this
Agreement through the office of Specific Claims West. It is
hoped that this will be accomplished on or before 2 April, 1997
in order to meet time lines contained in the Agreement.
We strongly support this agreement as it will prove that
there is a willingness on the part of all parties that there is an
alternative to litigation that would be unnecessarily costly for ail
Parties concerned.
We encourage you to act with all due consideration to
put this matter to a just and equitable close. We look forward to
an early and favourable response.
Yours truly,
David Hunt,
Chairman, Kwakiutl District Council
cc Glenn Robertson, MLA
MAY 1997
UBCIC NEWS
B.C. Native Women’s Society
embargoed till 10 a.m. P.S.T. March 19, 1997
Press Conference : 10:00 a.m. Room 1
Trout Lake Community Centre
3350 Victoria Drive at 14th
‘*We can’t seem to get the government’s attention
without a writ in our back pocket,’’ said Jane Gottfriedson,
President of the B.C. Native Women’s Society, announcing a
Federal Court action against the Minister of Indian Affairs over
discrimination against women in the Indian Act and in the
recently introduced Indian Land Management Framework
Agreement legislation.
“‘The Indian Act continues to discriminate against
women in several ways,’’ Gottfriedson continued. ‘‘We have
been telling the government about that, asking them to remedy
the discrimination, and finally drafting remedial legislation for
them. But there has been no action in response to our requests.
And now they are trying to pass the buck to the bands to deal
with the problem.’’
Plaintiffs in the action are the B.C. Native Women’s
Society and two individual native women, Jane Gottfriedson of
the Lower Similkameen Band and Teressa Nahanee of the
Squamish Band. The lawsuit concerms the situation of married
aboriginal women on reserves, who cannot get a share on the
matrimonial home or an order for exclusive possession of the
matrimonial home when their marriage breaks up.
The courts have held that provincial family laws, which
provides these remedies to every other woman in Canada, do
not apply on reserves because there is a conflict between them
and the Indian Act. The lawsuit says that this legal situation
discriminates against Aboriginal women, and is contrary to the
Charter of Rights. It is also a breach of the federal
government’s fiduciary responsibility to Aboriginal women.
Meanwhile, the federal government has signed
agreements in principle with fourteen bands which will devolve
responsibility for the administration of lands on reserve to the
band level. The lawsuit asks for a declaration that the
goverment cannot contract out of its fiduciary responsibility.
Gottfriedson and Mclvor were particularly angry that the
federal government had not consulted them about the proposed
land management framework agreement. “‘We wrote to the
government in November and asked to be heard during their
consultations. The next thing we hear, it is March and they are
telling us that there is only one more teleconference hearing, in
Edmonton just four days later. There was no way that we could
get there to make our views known. The high handed way the
government treated its consultation process - - we understand
they have had virtually NO input from Aboriginal women’s
groups in this consultation - - reflects their generally dismissive
attitude to Aboriginal women.”’
Said Viola Thomas, speaking for the United Native
Nations in support of the lawsuit, ‘“The problem of internalized
racism against Aboriginal women has existed since the
introduction of the Indian Act in 1876. This Act is a tool by the
federal government to divide and conquer our Aboriginal
Peoples. The Indian Act defines who our citizens are and it is
based on a patriarchal system that did not honour and respect
our matriarchal cultures. This system has forced our cultures to
not always act in ways that value or pay homage to Aboriginal
women. Because many married women leave their reserves to
go to their husband’s reserves when they get married, they often
have to leave the community they have lived in with their
husband and children for many years, when their marriage
breaks up. This is just one example of how the Indian Act has
forced Aboriginal peoples to discriminate against our women.”’
Fay Blaney, speaking for the National Action Committee
on the Status of Women and the Aboriginal Women’s Action
Network also supported the action. She said, ‘‘Colonialism and
historic injustices can easily be dismissed as the sins of our
great grandparents. But who will be answerable for the
institutionalized racism that Aboriginal women endure today?
Is there any accountability for the systemic abuses which results
in our disenfranchisement from our cultures? Our banishment
from our homelands? The genocidal laws and policies of the
state are completely hostile to the perspectives and status of
Aboriginal woman. The actions of our leadership clearly
indicate that the patriarchal intentions of the colonial agenda
has been successful. The position taken by the Assembly of
First Nations in the Bull C-31 discussions and the Constitutional
discussions are evidence of an ingrained patriarchal mentality.
I challenge our male-dominated leadership to return to our
traditions of honouring and respecting our women. Can they
support the BCNWS in this court challenge? I challenge our
““Indian Act Masters’’ to devise a meaningful process that
would end century long genocidal practices. After all,
aboriginal women have human rights too.”’
Eileen O’Brian on behalf of DAWN Canada, added ‘‘As
disabled women, including disabled aboriginal women, we
know how hard it 1s to fight against something that is wrong.
We are proud to support the B.C. Native Women’s Society in its
action against the federal government.
The Press Conference announcing the lawsuit was
attended by B.C. Native Women Society, the United Native
Nations, the Aboriginal Women’s Council, the Aboriginal
Women’s Action Network, DAWN Canada, the National
Action Committee on the Status of Women, and the Vancouver
Status of Women.
-30-
Contact: Jane Gottfriedson, President of B.C. Native Women’s
Society (250) 499-7897 or Barbara Findlay, Counsel for B.C.
Native Women’s Society (604) 687-8752
6
MAY 1997
THE JOINT POLICY COUNCIL
WHAT IS IT AND WHAT CAN IT DO FOR YOU?
WHAT IS IT?
The Joint Policy Council is:
*YOUR VOICE at policy table discussions with the Provincial
Government on important issues that affect your community!
*YOUR VISION of building a government to government
relationship with the Province without sacrificing Abonginal
title and Rights!
The JPC was established to provide a strong regional
voice for Nations who do not believe that the B.C. Treaty
Commission represents their principles, beliefs, and interests.
UBCIC Chiefs Council meets regularly with Cabinet ministers
to negotiate a wide range of policy issues of urgent concern to
Indian Nations. Many communities are struggling with issues
related to roads, forestry, fisheries, health and welfare,
education, to name a few. Faced with dwindling resources, it
sometimes feels like we have no voice. It is more important than
ever to empower ourselves, to reaffirm our beliefs, and to make
sure that government hears us, The JPC is one way to do this.
WHAT CAN IT DO FOR YOU?
The JPC is one part of the UBCIC ALTERNATIVE to
the B.C. TREATY process! The Union continues to lobby for
anation-to-nation treaty process with the Federal Government
and has developed a COMPREHENSIVE FRAMEWORK
TREATY that would ensure that our Aboriginal Title and
Rights are NOT EXTINGUISHED!
UBCIC Chiefs Council and staff are working hard to
make sure that YOUR VOICE is heard and YOUR VISION is
realized, but the potential POWER of the Joint Policy Council
will really come from YOU!
KNOWLEDGE IS POWER! Ask your Chiefs Council or
Nation representative about the UBCIC COMPREHENSIVE
FRAMEWORK TREATY and the JOINT POLICY COUNCIL
mandate and activities. Call the UBCIC JPC Coordinator to
find out more or to provide ideas and information.
Heipto make the JPC a successful forum for policy development
by learning about it and becoming involved. Make sure your
VOICE and VISION are expressed! Now more than ever-
UNITED WE STAND-DIVIDED WE PERISH!
Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs
Paulette Regan, JPC Coordinator
Phone: (604) 684-0231 Fax: (604) 684-5726
UBCIC NEWS
European Parliament MEP
Condemns B.C. Forest Practices
Brussels, Belgium - April 17, 1997,
Today, Irene Soltwedel-Schafer, European Union MEP
(Member of European Parliament), released and in-depth report
condemning B.C. forest practices. It was delivered today to the
Canadian Diplomatic Mission to the European Union in
Brussels as well as various political advisors and journalists.
Entitled ‘‘Clear-cutting: forestry and landrights in
Canada,’’ the 20 page report is the result of a 1995 Canadian
Government sponsored study tour originally intended to present
an image of ‘‘world-class logging’’ to invited MEP’s.
The report concluded that clear-cuts are still happening,
that the Forest Practices Code has failed, and that First Nations
still have no land rights, citing the 1995 Nuxalk Nation /Forest
Action Network Logging Blockade on King Island as an
example. Among her many references is an anti-clear-cut
treatise drawn up by the New Brunswick Small Woodlot
Owners Association.
She also accuses the B.C. Treaty Commission process of
being a federal extinguishment policy which will remove all
rights of First Nations and pave the way for future
industrial exploitation.
FINAL ARGUMENTS START
IN GUSTAFSEN LAKE TRIAL
Landmark Decision Expected Soon
April 24, 1997, VANCOUVER, Salish Territory — The longest and
most costliest court case in Canadian history, Regina v. Mary Jane
Pena et. al. known as the Gustafsen Lake trial, today began final
arguments at the special high-security court room in Surrey, B.C.
Prosecution and defence summations are expected to last for four to
five days meaning the jury may deliberate as soon as Wednesday of
next week.
Throughout this trial Canada’s national police force, the
RCMP, have provided evidence that they conspired and carried out
"smear and disinformation" campaigns against the Sundance Defend-
ers and their lawyer Dr. Bruce Clark. Peter Montague, Chief RCMP
Media Liaison Officer for British Columbia, was in the trial caught on
an intemal RCMP "training" videotape as saying "Smear campaigns
are our specialty.”
The sundance defenders allege that many of the significant
events during the siege were staged or fabricated by the RCMP. The
RCMP have introduced little evidence to contradict the Sundancer’s
allegations.
"The RCMP have been caught lying under oath on several
accounts throughout this trial which further exemplifies the
Sundancer's position that the RCMP fabricated numerous incidents
including the August 27, 1995, incident [where two RCMP officers
were alleged to have been ambushed and shot] to justify a kill at the
camp,” said Tsepten Defence Committee Spokesperson Splitting the
Sky. "And we do not think the RCMP were acting alone in this. We
believe they were acting on instruction and with the approval of their
political masters - provincial and federal politicians such as B.C.'s
Attomey General, Ujjal Dosanjh."
MAY 1997
UBCIC NEWS
RESOURCE CENTRE UPDATE
e have discovered that not all of British Columbia is
covered on the Census reels that we recently acquired for
1881, 1891 and 1901. We suspect some areas of the
province may have been included in the census for Alberta
and/or the NWT. We have two census catalogues on order
from the National Archives which we hope will help us sort it
out. If there are areas of B.C. covered on reels we do not
have, we will order these reels so that our census for B.C. is
as complete as possible. We also suspect that there are
some areas of the province which the census takers did not
cover because of barriers such as inclement weather, rugged
access to remote areas, etc.
We have two new voiunteers in the Resource Centre.
Dorine Cyr and Alma Peters are going to continue our project
to get brief records for all items in our Paul Chartrand Special
Collection on our automated catalogue. We also hope to hire
two summer students with the heip of goverment grants.
These siudents will help with additional cataloguing projects.
For anyone who is coming to Vancouvertodoresearch,
the Resource Centre will have evening hours in May and
June to provide access for the Institute of Indigenous
Govemment students who take spring semester courses at
the iG. The Resource Centre will be open late on Tuesdays
and Thursdays until 8 p.m. from the week of May 19th
through to the end of June. Mondays, Wednesdays and
Fridays we will be open until 4:30 p.m.
Sarah Nighswander will be replacing Sarah Torsky,
our cataloguer, when she goes on matemity leave in June. It
will be a busy summer training and supervising summer
students and helping our new cataloguer settle into her job.
inthe next newsletter, we will be announcing acquisition
of new CD-ROM products which will be very helpful to
researchers. We are setting up a separate workstation for
these information databases and will let you know when
everything is running smoothly and we are able to make them
available for use.
NUXALK AND FOREST
ACTION NETWORK
STEAL BACK TIMBER FROM
UK TIMBER YARD
Embargo: 15:00 GMT,
Wed, 9 Apmil 1997
MANCHESTER, UK - The Nuxalk First Nation will
“*steal back’’ Western Red Cedar from a six acre timber yard
which they accuse of handling stolen timber.
On Wednesday afternoon they will enter and ‘ethically
shoplift’’ large planks of timber from the yard of one of the
largest timber importers in the UK. They will hand the timber
in to Stretford police station, where they will ask the police to
charge the timber yard with handling stolen property.
Companies such as Interfor and MacMillan Bloedel have
sent material to Manchester.
These forests are the traditional lands of the Nuxalk First
Nation. They depend on the forest for their livelihood for
fishing and for their cultural and spiritual survival. The Nuxalk
are a sovereign nation and have not given permission for the
extraction of timber from their lands. The Nuxalk consider that
timber taken from their lands without their consent is stolen.
The Nuxalk Nation are in the UK to demand an
immediate recognition of their sovereignty and an immediate
end to the industrial logging on their land. The Nuxalk Nation
are asking UK timber trades to refuse to purchase any more
timber from their lands.
The Nuxalk will be helped by environmental activists
from Forest Action Network.
MAY 1997
UBCIC NEWS
pS b
STAKES RISING OVER ILLEGAL FISH FARM IN CLAYOQUOT SOUND
Chief Sam has given the
February 25, 1997 —
Ahousaht First Nations Chief
Councillor Sidney Sam vowed
today to enforce the province’s
own requirement for removal of
fish from a salmon farm in Ahousaht traditional
territory in Clayoquot Sound. The fish farm, operated
by Pacific National Group, is growing salmon illegally
since its tenure expired in November.
“‘If the province won't do its job, then we will
exercise our sovereign nght and act on its behalf,”’ said
Chief Sam. B.C. Lands had ordered the company to
remove the fish by January 31, and later extended the
date to February 21. Both dates passed without action,
and now the province appears unwilling to take further
steps.
The Ahousaht opposed renewal of the license
because of concems over the negative impacts the farm
has had on wild salmon, herring, and shellfish in the area.
Since herring are now starting to spawn in
Clayoquot, the Ahousaht view the provincial foot-
dragging as unacceptable given the potential loss to the
TESOUICE.
"Tf the province won't do its job, then we
will exercise our sovereign right and act
on its behalf” - Chief Sidney Sam
province until 5 pm, on
Wednesday to commit to firm
action on removing the fish. If
there is no agreement in place,
the Ahousaht will enforce the government’s order on
Thursday moming.
Salmon farming is coming under increasingly
scrutiny in B.C. since the start of the Salmon
Aquaculture Review process undertaken by the province
to assess the nsks of salmon farming. All representatives
at the table other than those from industry and
government have expressed sharp concerns with the way
in which salmon farming is presently practiced in B.C.
The chief concerns of fishermen, First Nations and
environmentalists include the threat of disease spreading
from exotic species of farmed salmon to wild salmon, the
lack of regulation of drug use on salmon farms, and the
large amounts of concentrated fecal waste generated.
Contact: Chief Sidney Sam (250) 670-9563. For
information on the Salmon Aquaculture Review contact:
Howard Breen (250) 753-3459
12th Annual Intertribal Pow~Wow
Honouring Our Urban First Nations Families
Reclaiming Our Sacred Time and Space on the Pow-Wow Trail
May 9, 10, 11, 1997
Trout Lake Community Centre
3350 Victoria Drive, Vancouver, B.C.
ALCOHOL AND DRUG FREE
Admission by Donation
Contacts: Wally Awasis (604) 874-9929 or Karen (604) 434-4246
Arts and Craft Tables contact Gord (604) 323-2568
MAY 1997
UBCIC NEWS
National Day of Action
Tsilhgot’in Nation supports B.C.
Native youth occupation of B.C.
Treaty Commission Office in
Vancouver.
April 18, 1997
The Tsilhgotin National
Government is in total
support of the occupation of
the British Columbia Treaty
Commission head office
boardroom in Vancouver by
about 30 members of the
Vancouver based Native
Youth Movement.
We are also in total
agreement with their
contention that the B.C.
Treaty Process is illegally
negotiating treaties with
B.C. Indians in clear
violation of international law
that requires such treaty
negotiations to be conducted
only between national
sovereign governments and
indigenous nations [peoples].
They accuse the BCTC of
collaborating with ‘so-
called’ native leaders of the
First Nations Summit for the
purpose of selling out the
nights of the native youth
throughout the Province of
B.C. So do we, the
Tsilhgotin National
Government.
The BCTC has further compromised internationally
recognized treaty making processes by conducting its
negotiations with Indian representatives who are not fully
mandated to do so by the Indian people they supposedly
represent.
The youth occupiers of the BCTC Boardroom have
echoed the position of the TNG that treaty negotiations can only
proceed if the Indian nation is solidly behind their leaders’
negotiation position. This means that members must be fully
informed about the issues and give their consent to their chosen
leaders to negotiate on their behalf.
The youth occupiers have indicated that they will respect
BCTC property during the occupation, and the Tsilhqotin
Nation advises that these youth occupiers of the BCTC
Boardroom must have their chosen forum to present their strong
Message respected, and be provided with proper food and
services while they are guests of the BCTC. The BCTC will be
held fully responsible for any indignity or injury that may
NATIVE YOUTH MOVEMENT
Apmil 25, 1997 - On the 17th and 18th of April approximately 30
Native Youth Movement members spent two days and a night occupying
the B.C. Treaty Commission office in downtown Vancouver.
The occupation was in protest of the B.C. Treaty Process. The
Native Youth Movement are 100% opposed to the treaty process. The
NYM refused to leave until a meeting with the Treaty Commission and
the NYM was set.
The Native Youth Movement stated that any Treaty Process that
promotes the loss of our traditional homelands in any form is considered
treason. The Native Youth Movement reject the BCTC process and its
Nisga’a style settlement model. The Nisga’a people shall lose, 92% of
their traditional homeland forever, if the Nisga’a people ratify the
agreement.
With the assistance of Rene Taylor (an aboriginal legal services
lawyer in Vancouver), the date agreed upon by both parties was on or
before April 25, 1997. This lack of commitment and deceitful
wording of the agreement is unacceptable to the NYM. We will hold the
BCTC commissioners accountable to the commitment made to us as
Native Youth, by setting a firm meeting date.
The NYM and the BCTC have suggested a meeting date of May
27,1997. The NYM will hold the BCTC accountable to this date, Further
the NYM would like to take this opportunity to warn the BCTC; in the
event (BCTC) continues to play games, the NYM shall return and re-
occupy the offices of the BCTC.
-30-
Contact: Monty Joseph (250) 493-3924 or
Skeena Reece (604) 688-1821
happen to these Indian
representatives
resulting from BCTC -
initiated measures. We
also call on the BCTC
to immediately open
the phone and fax lines
so they can be
contacted by Indian
nation organizations
and their family
members.
TNG Deputy
National Chief Ray
Hance said he is
pleased that B.C.
Native Youth have
become involved in the
issue of treaty making,
particularly by
protesting the
fraudulent B.C. Treaty
Commission Process.
“*We
congratulate these
young people who are
taking this action for
the courage of their
convictions. We share
with them their sense
of outrage at the way in
which the governments
of Canada and British Columbia are conspiring to deprive the
indigenous nations, by a deceitful and fraudulent process, of
territones and nights that are protected by international,
constitutional and indigenous law,’’ he said.
Deputy National Chief Hance also issued a stern warning
to the BCTC about its treatment of the Native Youth Movement
emissaries who are presenting a valid grievance to the BCTC.
‘“We ask the BCTC to respect the occupants. These
young people personify the future of our nations. Every effort
must be made to listen to them and to understand what they
have to say. We ask you to do so. Freedom of communication
TNG PRESS RELEASE (Continued on Page 11)
10
SUMMER 1996
UBCIC NEWS
~ April 17,
SETON LAKE INDIAN BAND
Apnil 17, 1997
Kalh wa7acw (Hello)
We welcome you to our territory!
We are stopping this train today to share an important message
with you. The land you are travelling through is the terntory of
the St’at’imc People.
Fifteen years ago April 17, 1982, Queen Elizabeth II signed into
law the Constitution Act 1982 Section 35 of the Constitution;
recognize and affirms the Aboriginal and Treaty Rights of
Aboriginal peoples.
Despite this recognition and affirmation in the constitution, the
social and economic conditions of our people have not improved
over the past 15 years. Also, our people are excluded from the
amending formula in the constitution and therefore are denied
the opportunity to identify and define any further changes to
Section 35 to protect our collective Aboriginal and Treaty
Rights.
As you travel through our valley and further along in our
territory you will notice that B.C. Hydro has played a large role
in changing the face of the land. You must realize that we
derive no benefit from this corporate giant.
Our community has received no compensation of any type for
the cutblocks that you will see on the opposite shore of Seton
Lake. For this reason, we feel the Federal government must
reconsider their decision to not act upon the recommendations
laid out in the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples.
The rail road tracks this ‘‘Budd Car’’ is travelling over is our
land. It was taken without permission and knowledge. As you
see the tracks interfere with our use of the shore line of the
lakes within our territory.
We thank you for listening to us today, enjoy the rest of your
journey.
Hu7malh (farewell)
Chief Garry John
On behalf of Seton Lake Band
1997
Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs
PRESS STATEMENT
Stl’atl’imx Territory, April 18, 1997
Chief Saul Terry, President of the Union of B.C. Indian
Chiefs, made these comments in support of the Native Youth
who are occupying the Treaty Commission Office to demand
changes to the process:
“The Union of B.C. Indian is proud of the Native Youth
Movement (“"NYM”’’) in their principled stand to refuse to
accept any treaties coming out of the B.C. Treaty Commission
Process. The Youth are taking action to protect the future of
their Peoples, and are demanding answers to questions which
profoundly affect their political, social and economic future in
their respective homelands.’’
‘“The NYM is tired of the depressing situations
Indigenous Peoples find ourselves in, they are taking action to
ensure that any political solutions allow us to fulfill our
responsibilities and obligations as Indigenous Peoples to care
for and protect our land and nights for future generations.
“*The youth are seeking the truth. The Union of B.C.
Indian Chiefs urges the Treaty Commission Office to listen to
the NYM and recognize their right to lead us. It is, afterall,
their future which we are fighting for.”’ :
TNG PRESS RELEASE (Continued from page 10)
must be assured to them. Efforts to prevent the education of the
public on these vitally important issues will only lead to more
confrontation and trouble if any of the protesters should be
hurt.”’
Contact, Chief Saul Terry, 250-256-4125.
““If the occupants call for help, the Tsilhqot’in National
Government will respond by urging Tshilqot’in Nation
members to attend in strength, Let it be clearly understood that
this action has been caused not by our young protesters, but by
governments that continue to refuse to face the reality of
resurgent indigenous nations who ask those governments to
obey their own laws and those of the international community
of sovereign states,’’ he said.
-30-
Contact: Ray Hance,
TNG Deputy National Chief
(250) 392-3918
SUMMER 1996
11
UBCIC NEWS
A Message from Indian
and Northern Affairs Canada
Expiry Dates Established for Certificates of
Indian Status
The purpose of issuing Certificates of Indian Status is to
verify that the cardholder is a registered Indian. Certificates of
Indian Status are only useful if the photographs and physical
descriptions are current. It has come to our attention that some
registered Indians have been denied services because some
service providers have questioned whether their status cards are
still valid.
To remedy this situation, it has been decided that status
cards issued to individual under the age of eighteen will have an
expiry date of two years and status cards issued to individuals
over the age of eighteen will have an expiry date of five years.
This policy is effective immediately.
It should be noted that the five year expiry date does not
mean that the cardholder ceases to be a registered Indian at the
end of the five year period. It only means that if the cardholder
intends to use the status card to obtain certain services and
benefits, it must be renewed every five years.
It should also be noted that all previous versions of the
status card will continue to be valid until January 1, 2000.
Therefore, it is very important that your renew your current
status card on or before January 1, 2000.
Should you have any questions or concerns, please
contact your Band or the Indian Registry and Bands Lists
Office, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, B.C. Region, at
(604) 666-2059
OVIDE MECREDI (Continued from page 4)
Thirdly, we will focus on people like Mr. Dion, the
minster of reconciliation, the minister of reconciliation who
forgets that the aboriginal people exist and his only priority is
what’s happening in the province of Quebec. So we will be
focusing on him as well in the next few weeks.
Finally, Senator Fairbairn, who has, J understand, a very
powerful influence on the Prime Minister, one of his key
advisors in his inner circle of friends. And on that score, I
might say that the students from the University of Calgary have
occupied his office yesterday and the Senator has agreed to meet
with them today. Depending on the outcome of these
discussions with the Senator, the students are prepared to carry
on with their protests involving her.
We will be inviting our communities across the country
to try to do things creatively with Canadians in general where
we don't create any annoyances with anybody but we try to
build public support for our issues. So what we’re asking for
now is not so much slowing down traffic, which we did in 18
locations yesterday, but what we’re asking for is for people to do
some cultural events, some educational sessions, and to involve
not just the politicians in their area, like the municipal
Northern Ontario M.P. and Minister of Indian
Affairs and Northern Development Ronald A.
Irwin Announces Retirement From Federal
Politics
Sault Ste. Marnie (Apmil 4, 1997) - Minister of Indian
Affairs and Northern Development and Member of Parliament
for Sault Ste. Marie Ronald A. Irwin today announced that he
will not be seeking re-election in the next federal election.
“*This is a personal choice that I have made and I am
looking forward to being able to enjoy more time with my
family and friends. It has been an honour for me to serve the
government of Prime Minster Jean Chretien and the residents of
Sault Ste. Marie,’’ said Ron Irwin.
Mr. Irwin continued, ‘‘I wish to thank my wife Margaret
and our children for their wonderful support and confidence,
which over the years has made this challenging experience so
fulfilling. ] would also like to thank the people of Sault Ste.
Marie whom I have had the pleasure of representing as both
their Mayor and Member of Parliament.’’
Ron Irwin was first elected to the House of Commons in
1980, where he served one term. He was re-elected in the
general election of October 1993. Prime Minister Jean Chretien
appointed Ron Irwin to the federal cabinet November 4, 1993 as
the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development.
“IT would like to thank the Prime Minister for his
friendship and guidance. I would also like to thank my
colleagues in the House of Commons who have encouraged me
and supported the work I have done. To the Elders, Chiefs,
Aboriginals, Metis, and Inuit peoples who have befriended me
and taught me, meegwetch.”’
For information contact:
Cate McCready, Minister’s Office (819) 997-0002
politicians, but the support groups and the human rights
organizations, the church organizations, and to try to build
support for all our people in that manner.
Apparently I forgot one very important individual who is
going to be the focus of our attention as well, and that is the
Honourable Allan Rock, the Minister of Justice. Because in
effect, what we’re asking for from the Canadians is justice. He
himself is guilty in terms of diminishing our treaty and
aboriginal nghts when he introduced the gun control legislation
without due regard to the treaty nghts of our people, and even
though we spoke to him on numerous occasions to discourage
him from passing the law in the manner that he did, he refused
to listen to our people. So he will also be the focus of our
attention in the next coming weeks.
As a Strategy, when the election is called, whenever that
is, and when these people go out to seek the support of our
people, we will dog them, we will follow them and we will do
whatever we can to draw attention to the plight of our people
and also try to get the support of the general public in terms of
ensuring that they vote for the candidates that are sensitive to
the needs and the issues of aboriginal people and that they hold
the current government accountable for its inactions.
12
MAY 1997
Institute of Indigenous Government
Extension Programs
EXTENSION PROGRAMS
The Institute of Indigenous Government is committed
to expanding extension and off-campus programming to
enhance First Nation students access to our unique education
program in British Columbia, Canada and around the world.
Our goal is to deliver up to 80% of our courses ‘‘off campus’’ in
regional centres and Indigenous communities through the
extension program and by innovative distance learning
strategies.
Rather than sending students to a post-secondary
institution, which is usually located in urban settings, our
instructors can be sent to communities to deliver credited and
non-credited courses offered through our extension programs.
This arrangement allows students to remain in the home
community, close to family, friends and employment.
The HG is also committed to provide community-
based quality programs to all students wherever their home
communities may be located. There are presently two
extension sites in operation to date. The first extension sites
are located in Saanich and Lillooet, BC.
We are anticipating additional sites at Duncan, the
William Head Correctional Centre, Lytton, Mount Currie BC
and in the Yukon Ternitory. Anticipated start up is aimed
for the Fall semester of 1997.
SAANICH EXTENSION PROGRAM
This extension site was established in the Spring of
1996. This arrangement enables First Nations students from
the Saanich Nation, and the surrounding areas, to access
instruction, student development workshops, and community
support while pursuing their post-secondary studies.
Students at the Saanich site are enrolled part-time and
full-time in either the Certificate in Indigenous Government
Studies (30 credits) or the Associate of Arts Degree in
Indigenous Government Studies (60 credits). The foundation
courses are being offered on an on-going basis to allow for new
applicants.
For more information on the Saanich Extension program,
contact: Paul Sam, IG Saanich Extension Co-ordinator
Phone:(250) 652-5784 Fax:(250) 544-0538
LILLOOET EXTENSION PROGRAM
The students at the Lillooet Extension Program are
working full-time in the community while attending six hours
of instruction one day per week. For example, IGST 101 will
alternate with IGAD 101 every other Monday. This
arrangement allows the students to remain working in their
community and stay close to family and friends.
As student enrolment increases the foundation courses
and the four principal areas of specialization will be offered to
UBCIC NEWS
meet the demand. Evening and/or day classes can be arranged.
For more information on this exciting educational
opportunity in the Lillooet area, contact:
Marilyn Napolean,
IG Lillooet Extension Co-ordinator,
Lillooet Tribal Council
Phone: (250) 256-7523
Fax:(250) 256-7119
ELDERS & RESOURCE PEOPLE
Elders from the community are providing cultural,
social and spiritual guidance for the students. Their input into
Indigenous education assures that Indigenous control is being
reflected in the implementation of instruction, course
development, workshops, and student support. Elders also,
actively participate with the delivery of symposiums, workshops
and cultural events which fully reflect indigenous
philosophy, values and experience.
Community members are also utilised to enhance
and aid in the instruction of our courses, symposiums and
workshops, To sit in on any of the Extension courses, please
contact the co-ordinators for class time and schedules.
For information on Extension Programs in your area,
contact Jennie Blankinship, Director of Extension Programs at
(604) 602-9555 or Fax (604) 602-3432.
21st Ammual Provincial
Elders Conference ‘OF
Okan agan Nation Elders
August 12, 13 & 14, 1997
Penticton Indian Band
Cultural & Health Workshops
Entertainment / Special Events
Special Guest: Jom Jackson
For more information contact the Penticton Indian Band
(250) 493-0048
MAY 1997
13
UBCIC NEWS
The Union Mailbox
April 2, 1997
To whom it may concern:
HSA is a union of workers in both the health and
community sectors in the province of British Columbia.
In 1994, our members established two $500.00
scholarships to assist aboriginal students in the province of B.C.
who are pursuing education in a HSA field that would lead to a
recognized certification, degree or diploma. Thank you for your
attention to this and your assistance in “‘getting the message
out’’.
For more information about our scholarship and or to
obtain a scholarship application form please Contact Carmen-
Anne Menegozza at the Health Sciences Association of B.C. @
(604) 439-0994,
Sincerely,
Carmen - Anne Menegozzo
Senior Labour Relations Officer - Education & OH&S
HEALTH SCIENCES ASSOCIATION OF B.C.
April 22, 1997
Dear Sirs:
We would like to thank-you for your past help in
advertising our Pow-Wow. Our Pow-Wows have been a success
in the past, helping to show seven to ten thousand peoples of all
cultures the First Nations traditions. Due to our Pow-Wow
being postponed last year, we want to ensure this year’s a
success by advertising to the fullest.
We depend entirely on donations and a small grant from
the City of Vancouver, to assist with the expenses. Volunteers
provide the services to stage the event, which includes a free
community feast on Saturday, along with a Mother’s Day
Breakfast at Cedar Cottage on Sunday Morning. We will try to
feed as many people as possible.
Any donations are greatly appreciated. Charitable tax
receipts are available upon request.
For further information you can reach me at 434-4246.
All my relations
Karen E. Soldan
Co-Chairman
Cedar Cottage, Trout Lake
Traditional Pow-Wow Committee
UNITED NATIVE NATIONS
Congratulations to the Board of Directors of Local #133
President - Margaret Prevost, Nimpkish
Vice President - Fred Arrance, Cree
Treasurer - Glen Campbell, Musqueam
Secretary - James Shorty, Yukon Territory
BOARD MEMBERS:
Marlene Trick, Tsimshian
Florence Hackett, Coaishes / Homalko
Norman Mark, Sechelt
Ron Chevnier, Algonquin
Nigel Morin, Metis
Hector Hill, Gitksan
THE HASTINGS RESERVATION HAS ITS OWN VOICE!!
Call Blue Jeanne for more information at (604) 688-1821
HEALING OUR SPIRIT
B.C. First Nations AIDS Society
On June 7th, 1997 Barb McKinnon and I will be joining
The Great Walk from Gold River to Tahsis - a total of 63.5
kilometers.
Piease open your hearts and wallets and make a pledge to
support our efforts. All donations will be given to Healing Our
Spirit, B.C. First Nations AIDS Society HIV+ Fund.
Contact: Catherine Blackstock, Executive Director
(604) 983-8774
March 19, 1997
Dear Collegue:
Immunization can keep children safe from many serious
illnesses, such as measles, mumps, rubella and polio. But children
need to complete their full schedule of shots to be protected, On time,
every time.
That's why the Canadian Public Health Association, in
partnership with the Canadian Medical Association, the Canadian
Paediatric Society and Health Canada, has launched the National
Immunization Awareness Program.
Children's entertainers Sharon, Lois & Bram have volunteered
their time to be featured in print public service announcements, as well
as on posters and radio spots, for this major, national campaign.
We ask your support for this campain by running the enclosed
publice service announcement in your publication. Four-colour
separations to run the announcement in colour are available upon
request.
Thank you for helping to send this important health message to
many Candians, particularly the parents of young children.
Sincerly,
Robert Burr
Director, Public Affairs and Communications
(613) 725-3769
14
MAY 1997
UBCIC NEWS
MAP OF THE SOVEREIGN INDIGENOUS NATIONS
TERRITORIAL BOUNDARIES: JUNE, 1993
The Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs’ map of the Sovereign Indigenous Nations Territorial Boundaries is the only contemporary
map that accurately shows the traditional tribal terntories of the 23 Indian Nations in British Columbia. The six colour map measures
28" x 36".
The tribal territories are the homelands of distinct Nations, within which their respective peoples share a common language,
culture and traditional forms of political and social organization. These homelands have been occupied by the Indian Nations since
time immemonial. Up to the present, the Indian Nations in British Columbia have never surrendered their ownership of their homelands
(aboriginal title), nor have they surrendered their original sovereignty as nations to govern their homelands (inherent jurisdiction).
Information on the territorial boundaries was compiled by the Union’s research portfolio and President’s office between July,
1990 and April, 1993 from archival research and information provided by elders, chiefs, and tribal councils. Chief Saul Terry, President
of the Union and a graduate of the Vancouver College of Art (now the Emily Carr College of Art and Design), prepared the working
drafts for the map.
Design and cartography for the June, 1993 map was done by David Sami, chief cartographer of Multi Mapping Ltd. in
Vancouver, B.C., using a 1:2,000,000 scale base-map from the Surveys and Environment Branch of the British Columbia Ministry
of Environment, Lands and Parks. All territorial boundaries shown on the map are subject to further revision, as additional information
becomes available. Contact the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs at (604) 684-0231 for ordering information.
28" x 36" / Scale: 1:2 000 000 / Six Colours
rot Pe)
MAY 1997 15
UBCIC NEWS
NAME:
UNION OF B.C. INDIAN CHIEFS
SUBSCRIPTION FORM
FOR OFFICE USE ONLY
. DATE RECEIVED:
ADDRESS: CHEQ/MLO.#
EXPIRY DATE:
PROVINCE/STATE/COUNTRY: PosTAL/Zip Cope:
1 Year Su BSCRIPTION RATES
NewsLETIER Individual: $35.00
NewsCLIPPING Member Bands: $75.00 Individual: $100.00
TOTAL AMOUNT ENCLOSED $
Please make cheque or money order payable to: UNION OF B.C. INDIAN CHIEFS, 5TH FLOOR - 342 WATER STREET,
VANCOUVER, B.C., V6B JAI
CONSIGNMEN:
CHIEFS MASK BOOKS
Owned and operated by the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs - Sth Floor 342 Water Street in Gastown (604) 684-0231
NOW SERVING THE INSTITUTE OF INDIGENOUS GOVERNMENT
BOOKS ARTS & CRAFTS
- FIRST NATIONS - JEWELLRY
- ABORIGINAL ISSUES - POTTERY
- INTERNATIONAL INDIGENOUS - PRINTS
_ LAND CLAIMS _ T-SHIRTS
- LEATHERWORK
-ART
- MASKS
- CHILDREN'S BOOKS
- BEADWORK
- POETRY
- POW WOW MUSIC
CALL, WRITE OR ~ AND MUCH MORE!
DROP IN TODAY!
16
MAY 1997
-
Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs
NEWSLETTER
MAY1997
Chiefs Announce "Voice of the Peoples" gathering
commerating anniversary of Mohawk Crisis.
On July 11 & 12,1997, the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs, Stl'atVimx Nation and Cayoose Creek Indian Band w
co-host the "Voice of the Peoples" gathering in Cayoose Creek,B.C.
This year, Chiefs Council being. Therefore, they directed
of the U n i o n of B . C .
Indian Chiefs decided that the
citizens in every community
must have the opportunity to
express their concerns on the
issues affecting their well-
IN THIS ISSUE...
2. President's Message
3. Penticton Indian Band
4. Press Conference with
Ovide Mecredi
5. Specific Claims Update
6. B.C. Native Women's Society
7. MEP condemns BC
Forestry Practices
8. Resource Center Update
9. 12 Annual International
Pow-Wow
10. National Day of Action
12. Irwin Announces
Retirement
13. Insitutute of Indigenous
Government
14. UBCIC Mailbox
MAY 1997
the U.B.C.I.C. to help facilitate
a Gathering on July 11 & 12,
1997 at the Cayoose Creek
Camp Grounds, home of the
Stl'atl'imx Nation in Lillooet,
B.C.
The discussions and
decisions must come from the
people, therefore, communities
will be asked to help organize
the event.
Federal Government's
strategies to undermine the
inherent rights of Indian people
is being conducted without
adequate communication with
citizens of Indian nations.
Politically in British Columbia,
decisions are being made to
force Indian Bands into selfgovernment agreements which
will extinguish the Aboriginal
Title and Rights and assimilate
bands into mainstream
Canadian society. How many
people understand that well
enough to agree to this process?
This is one reason why we must
gather together to become
informed and develop plans of
action to solve this problem i f
we hope to contain our political
rights as Indian nations into
the future.
It is time to be heard and
as Nations of people find ways
to defend and protect our lands
and resources. The "Voice of
the Peoples" will bring many
people into a political action to
express major concerns of the
communities. The challenge is
for Chiefs and Council and their
people to take up the call for
political action by holding
information meetings before
the Gathering and develop short
and l o n g term goals on
Aboriginal Title and Rights.
Our past Elders, Political
Leaders, Spiritual Leaders and
Peoples had visions for Indian
Government all over the North
and South American continent
- it is up to us to reaffirm our
responsibility to care for and
protect the land and build on
the dreams they left for us to
fulfill. We want the reservations
to r e m a i n h o l i s t i c a n d
productive but how can that
remain intact in negotiating coexistence with the Canadian
people?
We want communities
that are clean, safe, wholesome
and provide opportunities for
the families but the social ills
appear to overpower any
meaningful efforts we put into
health and education services.
There are a hundred and one
organizations existing just on
land claims and they interfere
w i t h the a f f a i r s o f the
communities. This type of
interference confuses people
and affects good decisions that
have to be made.
We cannot ask the
citizens of Indian nations to
join i n this Gathering just to
talk - it is time for action. As
Chiefs we are prepared to listen.
Joint Policy Council
What is it and what can it
do for you? p. 7
Nuxalk Nation steal
back timber, p. 8
Ahousaht Takes Aim at
Illegal Fish Farm. p. 9
Seton Lake Indian Band
Applies the Brakes to the
"Budd Car" p.11
21st Annual Provincial
Elders Conference' 97 p. 13
1
UBCIC NEWS
Message
From
the
Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs
Submission on The Indian Act
Optional Modification Act (Bill C-79) to Standing
Committee On Aboriginal Affairs & Northern
Development - Vancouver, B.C. March 11, 1997.
President
«
Chief Saul Terry, X'wisten
G
ood evening Committee Members of the Standing
Committee on Aboriginal Affairs. I am permitting
myself to be transmitted to you via this rather impersonal i f not
depersonalizing video teleconference technology. Permit me to
introduce myself.
I have been elected to the Council of my community for the
last twenty-four years. Between 1978 and 19831 was elected Vice
President of the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs. The Chiefs, my
colleagues, have honored me to be their President in the last
fourteen years. I cite these facts not to brag but to illustrate that I
have witnessed many politicians from your institutions come and
go without addressing the issues that plague our Peoples between
your elections. I am here, this day, to reiterate that there is a better
way than B i l l C-79 to improve Indian/Canada relations. Some of
those ideas are touched upon in the Assembly of First Nations'
presentation by National Chief Ovide Mercredi. Therefor I want
it put on record for you as the Committee on Aboriginal Affairs, for
the Prime Minister, the Honorable John Chretien, for my fellow
Chiefs and especially for the Peoples i n our territories that the
Union of B. C. Indian Chiefs concur with the message the Assembly
of First Nations presented to you on March 6, 1997.
On another occasion I appeared before the Standing
Committee on Aboriginal Affairs on behalf of the Union of B.C.
Indian Chiefs i n March 1991 because I felt strongly about the state
of siege over our people in Indian country. That year I was
heartened to witness actions taken by the Mohawk peoples in
defending their territory and at that time I said to Committee
Members: time and again we as Chiefs have to call your attention
to the crisis situations facing our people in Canada. I am sorry to
say that little has changed in the past few years.
I also looked at the Discussion Notes on the Indian Act
produced by the Department ofIndian&Northern Affairs in 1971
in which they state that "The Indian Act represents special
legislation taking precedence over provincial legislation which the
Parliament of Canada considers is essential to the needs of the
Indian people not only as a safeguard to protect their treaty and
property rights, but as a means of promoting their advancement.''
If indeed Parliament terms the Indian Act as special legislation it
must be for good reason. That reason stems from Indian-Crown
relations, a special relationship out of which arises lawful obligations
for the Government of Canada respecting Indian Nations. It is
wrong for any Minister to make changes to this special legislation
for political expediency unless our people are fully informed and
2
"The people of Canada andpur citizens
in our homelands must know the true source
of their political disempowerment, social
dispair,poverty andspiritual disillusionment"
through our collective free will give our consent. After all, there
are Treaties and the Trust obligation which must be lived up to by both parties- your government and our governments.
It is hard to believe that any Minister placed in a position of
honor and trust would deliberately try to lead our people down a
path riddled with mine fields targeting our Aboriginal and Treaty
Rights. The Minister's unilateral action compounds the mistrust
and uncertainty which now exist in our communities. I can say with
confidence that the deliberate sequence has led us to this day and
which one again prompts me to sound the alarm to protect the
Aboriginal Title and Rights of the people. The people of Canada
and our citizens i n our homelands must know the true source of
their political disempowerment, social dispair, poverty and spiritual
disillusionment.
For your information, in 1986 the Auditor-General criticized
the Department of Indian Affairs' land management program.
What created the problem we are having now is the fact that the
Department decided to change the way they do business with
Indian Bands to avoid possible litigation from First Nations
because of the Guerin Decision. The fact is the Department sought
input from Chiefs to improve on the land management program
and Chiefs responded because we know this issue well. But this was
not good enough for the Department who instead added a whole
range of studies under the "Lands, Revenues and Trust Review.''
Millions of dollars were spent (41,000,000 in our estimation) on
that process and in the end all of it was shelved except for the
Chartered Land Management Proposal, Indian Gas and Oil and
Monies.
These proposals have been worked and reworded because
our Chiefs would not endorse them. It is now called the' 'Optional
Land Management Proposal For Specific First Nations'' or Bill C 75. It is geared towards just 13 Indian Bands. It played a large part
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
(Continued on page 3)
MAY
1997
UBCIC NEWS
Penticton Indian Band
Press Statement
April 17, 1997 - Elders and members of the Penticton
Indian Band, at a community meeting last night, directed the
Penticton Indian Band Council to issue a public statement to the
effect that:
" A s a direct result of Fraser Martin's threat to sue the
Penticton Indian Band or either of the Similkameen Bands if
the Bands acquire an interest in the Apex Ski Resort; the
Penticton Indian Band has abruptly abandoned its efforts to seek
a peaceful resolution of the Apex Ski Resort by way of entering
into a joint-venture arrangement with one of the six investor
groups who have indicated an interest in acquiring the ski
resort.
In addition, the Penticton Indian Band takes this
opportunity to serve notice that its membership shall actively
renew their commitment and efforts to fully protect the
environment within the Apex Ski Resort area." The Penticton
Indian Band finds these current circumstances to be extremely
regrettable.
We, like the six investor groups have invested a great
deal of time, effort and expense in our attempts to negotiate a
joint-venture arrangement that would allow for the long-term
operation and stability of the Apex Ski Resort.
Further, we would like to remind all parties that we have
made every effort to seek a peaceful resolution to this longstanding dispute. At the outset, we negotiated and signed, in
good faith, the Initial Agreement which contained the necessary
provisions to settle the Apex Ski Resort/Penticton Indian Band
dispute. The Initial agreement was signed by three Provincial
Government Cabinet Ministers. On August 30, 1995 the
Province "breached" the Initial Agreement and "walked
away" from the Initial Agreement.
Subsequent to court proceedings and the imposition of an
injunction directing members of the PIB to refrain from
impeding traffic on Green Mountain Rd., the members of the
PIB have respected the court injunction. Finally, in an act of
"good-will" the Penticton Indian Band allowed the Province to
repair and pave Green Mountain Road last October in return for
the Provinces commitment to undertake a full scale
environmental assessment of the Seven Peaks area. To
date, no such commitment has been made by the province.
Again, the Penticton Indian Band finds it extremely
regrettable that, in spite of our best efforts to avoid further
conflict, the irresponsible and selfish actions of one individual
and the continued bungling of the Provincial government, the
entire economy of the South Okanagan has been placed in
jeopardy
Chief Stewart Phillip, Okanagan Nation
(250) 493-3924 /490-5166
MAY1997
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
(Continued from page 2)
in prompting the Minister to amending the Indian Act.
The Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs opposes any attempt
by the Canadian Government to diminish the unceded
land base of our Peoples.
We have suggested a Treaty with Canada on a
Nation to Nation basis which promises long Political,
Social and Economic benefits for our Peoples. The
problem we have with the present process is that the
trust relationship we have with the Crown is being
changed arbitrarily. The Minister is refusing to hear
the options we have.
In conclusion, the approach Minister Irwin has
taken raises many serious socio-economic questions.
It is a grave understatement to allude to the Optional
Modification Act changes as cosmetic or superficial.
If allowed to proceed they shall profoundly continue to
affect our Peoples 'Political, Social, Economic, Cultural
and Spiritual existence.
±
Penticton Indian Band
PRESS R E L E A S E
March 4, 1997—Today, the Westbank First nation held
negotiations with the Federal and Provincial government
officials with respect to Westbank Indian Band's involvement in
the British Columbia Treaty Commission (BCTC) Process.
Penticton Indian Band Councillors Joan Phillip and
Pierre Kruger attended this meeting and formally registered the
Penticton Indian Band's opposition to the Westbank First
Nation's involvement in the B.C. Treaty Commission process,
for the following reasons:
1. That the Okanagan Traditional Territory is indivisible. No
single community such as Westbank First Nation, has the right
to negotiate a portion of Okanagan Territory;
2. Further that, the Westbank First nation requires the consent
of the remaining six (6) Okanagan Nation communities, as
follows:
Okanagan Indian Band, Penticton Indian Band, Osoyoos
Indian Band, Upper Similkameen Indian Band, Lower
Similkameen Indian Band, Upper Nicola Indian Band.
Under no circumstances will the Penticton Indian Band
allow this fraudulent process to continue. If the Westbank First
Nation continues to pursue this fraudulent Treaty process, the
Penticton Indian Band shall be forced to sue the Federal
Government, the P r o v i n c e of B . C . , the B . C . Treaty
Commission, and the Westbank First Nation.
-30Contact: Councillor Joan Phillip
(250) 493-3924 or (250) 493-0048
3
UBCIC NEWS
Press Conference with Ovide Mecredi of
Assembly of First Nations - April 18, 1997
It's quite obvious to me and will be
obvious to my people and the Chiefs
across the country that the Prime
Minister still refuses to address our
people's needs and desires for reform in
this country. A l l that we wanted from
him yesterday was to agree to meet with
the Chiefs and himself to begin a
dialogue on the Royal Commission. We
never asked him to state any position on
any recommendation. We just simply
asked him to meet with us to begin a
dialogue on how we're going to work
together on the recommendations.
And we're not naive. We have
been around many years too, we know
how government works. And we've
never said we agree with all the
recommendations. We've said we agree
with the report in principle. It's a
blueprint for reform, it's a foundation for
negotiating with the government of
Canada and the provinces a new
relationship, a better life for the First
Nations across this country. We're not
expecting the Government of Canada to
come and tell us at the very initial
meeting we agree w i t h a l l 440
recommendations.
But what we are expecting of
them is to show good faith so that they
give some hope to our people and the
good faith that we're expecting from
them is to agree to sit down with us on a
continuing basis to discuss the
recommendations, to try and reach a
consensus on the contents of the report
for i m p l e m e n t a t i o n . A n d the
implementation can take the form of
immediate changes, the implemenation
cant take the form of long-term changes.
But we are prepared to discuss with the
Prime Minister and the premiers how
this can be accomplished over time.
And I repeat by saying that I am
very disappointed that the Prime
Minister is dismissing that simple
request to meet with us, and is thereby
ignoring our demands for reform in this
country. So I'm here to say to him and
to the Canadian people that we will
escalate the protests, the rallies, and the
political action that we started yesterday,
that we will do this as long as we have to
until such time as the Prime Minister
agrees to meet with the Chiefs across this
country in a meeting convened jointly by
himself and the Assembly of First
Nations.
I've already talked to my national
executive and we have agree to maintain
pressure on the federal government. But
this time I wanted to be very clear to the
Canadian people that what we will do is
not to target the Canadians. We don't
want to inconvenience the Canadian
people themselves. It is not the
Canadians in this country who are
holding back progress; it's the Prime
Minister, it's the federal government.
So our strategy involves the
following elements: First, we will be
inviting all the premiers to join forces
with the Chiefs and the Assembly of
First Nations in encouraging the Prime
Minister to convene a meeting with the
people that I represent so that we can
begin dialogue with the federal
government.
Secondly, we will be advising the
premiers to also indicate their
willingness to sit down with the Prime
Minister and the aboriginal people to
begin discussions on the report itself,
because one of the recommendations of
the Royal Commission is for the Prime
Minister to convene a meeting of
himself, the premiers, and the aboriginal
leaders for discussions on the Royal
Commission.
We will target specific individuals
in the Government of Canada for our
political protests. That includes the
Prime Minister himself because he is
ultimately responsible for the lack of
progress on Indian Affairs and Indian
policy this country. It is his government
that is making the people poorer than
they were when the Conservatives were
in power, and it is his government that
has made all these enlightened promises
that he failed to deliver on, and it is his
government that's refusing to sit down
with the Chiefs and talk about the Royal
Commission. So we'll be focusing on
him specifically as the Prime Minister.
In addition, we will target Paul
Martin, the minister who is responsible
for all the cutbacks in this country, the
person that we personally hold
responsible for all the pain and suffering
in our communities because of the
cutbacks that he has implemented in
order to meet the desires of the business
community at the expense of the poor in
this country.
OVIDEMECREDI(Continued on page 12)
ROTISKENRAKETE WARRIOR SOCIETY
On April 21, 1997, the Rotiskenrakete Warrior Society from different territories within the Kanienkehaka (Mohawk) met to
discuss the recent conflict between the Seneca Nation of Indian and the New York State Police and New Y o r k State
Department of Taxation. The Rotiskenrakete are closely monitoring the situation and are in contact with our Seneca brothers. According to Kaienerekowa (Great Law of Peace) the Seneca are a brother to the Kanienkehaka. As the mend of the
Kanienkehaka, it is our duty by Law to stand and assist our Seneca brothers in their time of need.
The Rotiskenrakete are in full support of the position the Seneca Nation of Indians have taken in opposition of taxation in the
sovereign Seneca Territories.
We encourage all Onkwehonwe people to show their support for the Seneca People. Multiply this Press Release and send it out.
4
MAY 1997
UBCIC NEWS
Specific Claims Research Program
Update
Kwakiutl District Council
Record Group 10
Anyone involved in research related to aboriginal peoples
knows how complicated and time-consuming the work can be.
There are many sources to consult and the records are not always
easy to find. Researchers who undertake projects that involve the
use of government documents may be obliged to look through
records created by a variety of government departments to find the
information they need. The starting point for this type of research
is often the records of the Department of Indian Affairs, with either
active records held at the Department or historical files held at the
National Archives of Canada.
Record Group 10, or R G 10, is the designation
given by the National Archives to records created by the Department
of Indian Affairs and transferred to the Archives. R G 10 is the
largest record group at the National Archives relating to native
issues and is generally the first stop for most researchers. The
original order of the records is maintained by the Archives which
means that researchers must rely on the Inventory and finding
aids, created by archivists who specialise in R G 10, to help them
locate pertinent files. Finding individual documents within R G 10,
or within any large body of records, cannot be done in one step.
Researchers must narrow the search by moving from the Inventory
to individual finding aid lists, then to volumes (the term used for
the storage boxes), on to files, and finally to documents—all the
while bearing in mind changes the Department made over time to
its filing systems and administrative jurisdictions.
Within the R G 10 Inventory records descriptions are
divided into four broad groupings: Pre-Confederation Headquarters'
records; Post-Confederation Headquarters' records; Field Office
Records; and Miscellaneous Land records. Each one of these
groupings is broken down into sub-groups within the Inventory to
help researchers narrow their search.
R G 10 records are stored at the National Archives in
Ottawa as well as in regional Records Centres across Canada.
Records created by the Department of Indian Affairs in British
Columbia have, since 1984-85, been transferred to the National
Archives at the Vancouver Federal Records Centre in Burnaby.
Many of the R G 10 records stored in Ottawa have been microfilmed
and are available through inter-institutional loan.
The U B C I C Resource Centre holds a comprehensive
collection of R G 10 microfilm including copies of the Inventory
and many of the most useful finding aids. Through its Research
Department, the Union periodically offers workshops which look
at R G 10 in detail and allow researchers to gain first-hand
experience using this complex record group.
MAY 1997
March 8, 1997
The Cabinet
Province of British Columbia
Parliament Buildings
Victoria, B.C. V 8 V 1X8
Dear Premiers and Ministers,
Re: Deer and Eagle Island Settlement Agreement
In reference to the above, it has been brought to our
attention that a negotiated Settlement Agreement has been
reached on this long outstanding issue between the Kwakiutl
Band, Halcan Logging Ltd. and the Province of British
Columbia.
As you may know these Islands are an integral part of
the Kwakiutl Douglas Treaty and continues to be an important
food and recreation area, not only for the Kwakiutl but also for
the surrounding non-Aboriginal community. It is also a burial
site in pre-contact and contact times.
We understand that the Province has displayed a great
deal of patience in coming to this agreement over the past ten
years. You are to be congratulated for that patience.
We understand that Canada is prepared to fast track this
Agreement through the office of Specific Claims West. It is
hoped that this will be accomplished on or before 2 April, 1997
in order to meet time lines contained in the Agreement.
We strongly support this agreement as it will prove that
there is a willingness on the part of all parties that there is an
alternative to litigation that would be unnecessarily costly for all
Parties concerned.
We encourage you to act with all due consideration to
put this matter to a just and equitable close. We look forward to
an early and favourable response.
Yours truly,
David Hunt,
Chairman, Kwakiutl District Council
cc Glenn Robertson, M L A
5
UBCIC NEWS
B.C. Native Women's Society
embargoed till 10 a.m. P.S.T. March 19, 1997
Press Conference : 10:00 a.m. Room 1
Trout Lake Community Centre
3350 Victoria Drive at 14th
"We can't seem to get the government's attention
without a writ in our back pocket," said Jane Gottfriedson,
President of the B.C. Native Women's Society, announcing a
Federal Court action against the Minister of Indian Affairs over
discrimination against women in the Indian Act and in the
recently introduced Indian Land Management Framework
Agreement legislation.
"The Indian Act continues to discriminate against
women in several ways," Gottfriedson continued. " W e have
been telling the government about that, asking them to remedy
the discrimination, and finally drafting remedial legislation for
them. But there has been no action in response to our requests.
And now they are trying to pass the buck to the bands to deal
with the problem."
Plaintiffs in the action are the B.C. Native Women's
Society and two individual native women, Jane Gottfriedson of
the Lower Similkameen Band and Teressa Nahanee of the
Squamish Band. The lawsuit concerns the situation of married
aboriginal women on reserves, who cannot get a share on the
matrimonial home or an order for exclusive possession of the
matrimonial home when their marriage breaks up.
The courts have held that provincial family laws, which
provides these remedies to every other woman in Canada, do
not apply on reserves because there is a conflict between them
and the Indian Act. The lawsuit says that this legal situation
discriminates against Aboriginal women, and is contrary to the
Charter of Rights. It is also a breach of the federal
government's fiduciary responsibility to Aboriginal women.
Meanwhile, the federal government has signed
agreements in principle with fourteen bands which will devolve
responsibility for the administration of lands on reserve to the
band level. The lawsuit asks for a declaration that the
government cannot contract out of its fiduciary responsibility.
Gottfriedson and Mclvor were particularly angry that the
federal government had not consulted them about the proposed
land management framework agreement. " W e wrote to the
government in November and asked to be heard during their
consultations. The next thing we hear, it is March and they are
telling us that there is only one more teleconference hearing, in
Edmonton just four days later. There was no way that we could
get there to make our views known. The high handed way the
government treated its consultation process - - we understand
they have had virtually N O input from Aboriginal women's
groups in this consultation - - reflects their generally dismissive
attitude to Aboriginal women."
Said Viola Thomas, speaking for the United Native
Nations in support of the lawsuit, "The problem of internalized
racism against Aboriginal women has existed since the
6
introduction of the Indian Act in 1876. This Act is a tool by the
federal government to divide and conquer our Aboriginal
Peoples. The Indian Act defines who our citizens are and it is
based on a patriarchal system that did not honour and respect
our matriarchal cultures. This system has forced our cultures to
not always act in ways that value or pay homage to Aboriginal
women. Because many married women leave their reserves to
go to their husband's reserves when they get married, they often
have to leave the community they have lived in with their
husband and children for many years, when their marriage
breaks up. This is just one example of how the Indian Act has
forced Aboriginal peoples to discriminate against our women."
Fay Blaney, speaking for the National Action Committee
on the Status of Women and the Aboriginal Women's Action
Network also supported the action. She said, "Colonialism and
historic injustices can easily be dismissed as the sins of our
great grandparents. But who w i l l be answerable for the
institutionalized racism that Aboriginal women endure today?
Is there any accountability for the systemic abuses which results
in our disenfranchisement from our cultures? Our banishment
from our homelands? The genocidal laws and policies of the
state are completely hostile to the perspectives and status of
Aboriginal woman. The actions of our leadership clearly
indicate that the patriarchal intentions of the colonial agenda
has been successful. The position taken by the Assembly of
First Nations in the B i l l C-31 discussions and the Constitutional
discussions are evidence of an ingrained patriarchal mentality.
I challenge our male-dominated leadership to return to our
traditions of honouring and respecting our women. Can they
support the B C N W S in this court challenge? I challenge our
"Indian Act Masters" to devise a meaningful process that
would end century long genocidal practices. After a l l ,
aboriginal women have human rights too."
Eileen O'Brian on behalf of D A W N Canada, added " A s
disabled women, including disabled aboriginal women, we
know how hard it is to fight against something that is wrong.
We are proud to support the B.C. Native Women's Society in its
action against the federal government.
The Press Conference announcing the lawsuit was
attended by B.C. Native Women Society, the United Native
Nations, the Aboriginal Women's Council, the Aboriginal
Women's Action Network, D A W N Canada, the National
Action Committee on the Status of Women, and the Vancouver
Status of Women.
-30Contact: Jane Gottfriedson, President of B.C. Native Women's
Society (250) 499-7897 or Barbara Findlay, Counsel for B.C.
Native Women's Society (604) 687-8752
MAY 1997
UBCIC NEWS
THE JOINT POLICY COUNCIL
W H A T IS IT A N D W H A T C A N IT D O FOR Y O U ?
European Parliament M E P
Condemns B.C. Forest Practices
Brussels, Belgium - April 17, 1997.
W H A T IS IT?
The Joint Policy Council is:
* YOUR VOICE at policy table discussions with the Provincial
Government on important issues that affect your community!
*YOUR VISION of building a government to government
relationship with the Province without sacrificing Aboriginal
title and Rights!
The JPC was established to provide a strong regional
voice for Nations who do not believe that the B.C. Treaty
Commissionrepresentstheir principles, beliefs, and interests.
UBCIC Chiefs Council meets regularly with Cabinet ministers
to negotiate a wide range of policy issues of urgent concern to
Indian Nations. Many communities are struggling with issues
related to roads, forestry, fisheries, health and welfare,
education, to name a few. Faced with dwindling resources, it
sometimes feels like we have no voice. It is more important than
ever to empower ourselves, to reaffirm our beliefs, and to make
sure that government hears us. The JPC is one way to do this.
WHAT CAN IT DO FOR YOU?
The JPC is one part of the UBCIC ALTERNATIVE to
the B.C. T R E A T Y process! The Union continues to lobby for
a nation-to-nation treaty process with the Federal Government
and has developed a COMPREHENSIVE F R A M E W O R K
T R E A T Y that would ensure that our Aboriginal Title and
Rights are NOT EXTINGUISHED!
UBCIC Chiefs Council and staff are working hard to
make sure that YOUR VOICE is heard and YOUR VISION is
realized, but the potential POWER of the Joint Policy Council
will really come from YOU!
K N O W L E D G E IS POWER! Ask your Chiefs Council or
Nationrepresentativeabout the UBCIC COMPREHENSIVE
F R A M E W O R K TREATY and the JOINT POLICY COUNCIL
mandate and activities. Call the UBCIC JPC Coordinator to
find out more or to provide ideas and information.
Help to make the JPC a successful forum for policy development
by learning about it and becoming involved. Make sure your
VOICE and VISION are expressed! Now more than everUNITED W E STAND-DIVIDED W E PERISH!
Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs
Paulette Regan, JPC Coordinator
Phone: (604) 684-0231 Fax: (604) 684-5726
MAY 1997
Today, Irene Soltwedel-Schafer, European Union M E P
(Member of European Parliament), released and in-depth report
condemning B.C. forest practices. It was delivered today to the
Canadian Diplomatic Mission to the European Union in
Brussels as well as various political advisors and journalists.
Entitled "Clear-cutting: forestry and landrights in
Canada," the 20 page report is the result of a 1995 Canadian
Government sponsored study tour originally intended to present
an image o f ' 'world-class logging'' to invited M E P ' s .
The report concluded that clear-cuts are still happening,
that the Forest Practices Code has failed, and that First Nations
still have no land rights, citing the 1995 Nuxalk Nation /Forest
Action Network Logging Blockade on K i n g Island as an
example. Among her many references is an anti-clear-cut
treatise drawn up by the New Brunswick Small Woodlot
Owners Association.
She also accuses the B.C. Treaty Commission process of
being a federal extinguishment policy which will remove all
rights of F i r s t Nations and pave the way for future
industrial exploitation.
FINAL ARGUMENTS START
IN GUSTAFSEN L A K E TRIAL
Landmark Decision Expected Soon
April 24,1997, VANCOUVER, Salish Territory - The longest and
most costliest court case in Canadian history, Regina v. Mary Jane
Pena et. al. known as the Gustafsen Lake trial, today began final
arguments at the special high-security court room in Surrey, B.C.
Prosecution and defence summations are expected to last for four to
five days meaning the jury may deliberate as soon as Wednesday of
next week.
Throughout this trial Canada's national police force, the
RCMP, have provided evidence that they conspired and carried out
"smear and disinformation" campaigns against the Sundance Defenders and their lawyer Dr. Bruce Clark. Peter Montague, Chief RCMP
Media Liaison Officer for British Columbia, was in the trial caught on
an internal RCMP "training" videotape as saying "Smear campaigns
are our specialty."
The Sundance defenders allege that many of the significant
events during the siege were staged or fabricated by the RCMP. The
RCMP have introduced little evidence to contradict the Sundancer's
allegations.
"The RCMP have been caught lying under oath on several
accounts throughout this trial which further exemplifies the
Sundancer's position that the RCMP fabricated numerous incidents
including the August 27, 1995, incident [where two RCMP officers
were alleged to have been ambushed and shot] to justify a kill at the
camp," said Tsepten Defence Committee Spokesperson Splitting the
Sky. "And we do not think the RCMP were acting alone in this. We
believe they were acting on instruction and with the approval of their
political masters - provincial and federal politicians such as B.C.'s
Attorney General, Ujjal Dosanjh."
7
UBCIC NEWS
RESOURCE CENTRE UPDATE
We
h a v e d i s c o v e r e d that not all of British C o l u m b i a is
c o v e r e d o n t h e C e n s u s reels that w e recently a c q u i r e d f o r
1881, 1 8 9 1 a n d 1 9 0 1 . W e s u s p e c t s o m e a r e a s of t h e
p r o v i n c e m a y h a v e b e e n i n c l u d e d in the c e n s u s for A l b e r t a
and/or t h e N W T . W e h a v e t w o c e n s u s c a t a l o g u e s o n order
from the N a t i o n a l A r c h i v e s w h i c h w e h o p e will h e l p u s sort it
out. If t h e r e a r e a r e a s of B . C . c o v e r e d o n reels w e d o not
h a v e , w e will o r d e r t h e s e r e e l s s o that o u r c e n s u s for B . C . is
as c o m p l e t e a s p o s s i b l e . W e a l s o s u s p e c t that there a r e
s o m e a r e a s o f the p r o v i n c e w h i c h t h e c e n s u s t a k e r s d i d not
c o v e r b e c a u s e o f barriers s u c h a s i n c l e m e n t weather, rugged
a c c e s s to r e m o t e a r e a s , etc.
W e h a v e two n e w v o l u n t e e r s in t h e R e s o u r c e C e n t r e .
Dorine C y r a n d A l m a P e t e r s a r e g o i n g to c o n t i n u e our project
to get brief r e c o r d s f o r all i t e m s in o u r P a u l C h a r t r a n d S p e c i a l
C o l l e c t i o n o n o u r a u t o m a t e d c a t a l o g u e . W e a l s o h o p e to hire
two s u m m e r s t u d e n t s with t h e h e l p of g o v e r n m e n t grants.
T h e s e s t u d e n t s will h e l p with a d d i t i o n a l c a t a l o g u i n g projects.
F o r a n y o n e w h o is c o m i n g to V a n c o u v e r to d o r e s e a r c h ,
the R e s o u r c e C e n t r e will h a v e e v e n i n g h o u r s in M a y a n d
J u n e t o p r o v i d e a c c e s s f o r t h e Institute o f I n d i g e n o u s
G o v e r n m e n t s t u d e n t s w h o t a k e s p r i n g s e m e s t e r c o u r s e s at
the IIG. T h e R e s o u r c e C e n t r e will b e o p e n late o n T u e s d a y s
a n d T h u r s d a y s until 8 p . m . f r o m t h e w e e k o f M a y 19th
through to t h e e n d o f J u n e . M o n d a y s , W e d n e s d a y s a n d
F r i d a y s w e will b e o p e n until 4 : 3 0 p . m .
S a r a h N i g h s w a n d e r will b e r e p l a c i n g S a r a h T o r s k y ,
our c a t a l o g u e r , w h e n s h e g o e s o n m a t e r n i t y l e a v e in J u n e . It
will be a b u s y s u m m e r training a n d s u p e r v i s i n g s u m m e r
students a n d h e l p i n g o u r n e w c a t a l o g u e r settle into her job.
In the next newsletter, w e will be a n n o u n c i n g acquisition
of n e w C D - R O M p r o d u c t s w h i c h will b e v e r y helpful t o
r e s e a r c h e r s . W e a r e setting u p a s e p a r a t e workstation f o r
t h e s e i n f o r m a t i o n d a t a b a s e s a n d will let y o u k n o w w h e n
everything is r u n n i n g s m o o t h l y a n d w e a r e a b l e to m a k e t h e m
available f o r u s e .
8
N U X A L K AND FOREST
ACTION NETWORK
STEAL B A C K TIMBER F R O M
U K TIMBER YARD
Embargo: 15:00 G M T ,
Wed, 9 April 1997
M A N C H E S T E R , U K - The Nuxalk First Nation will
' 'steal back'' Western Red Cedar from a six acre timber yard
which they accuse of handling stolen timber.
On Wednesday afternoon they will enter and ' 'ethically
shoplift" large planks of timber from the yard of one of the
largest timber importers i n the U K . They will hand the timber
in to Stretford police station, where they will ask the police to
charge the timber yard with handling stolen property.
Companies such as Interior and MacMillan Bloedel have
sent material to Manchester.
These forests are the traditional lands of the Nuxalk First
Nation. They depend on the forest for their livelihood for
fishing and for their cultural and spiritual survival. The Nuxalk
are a sovereign nation and have not given permission for the
extraction of timber from their lands. The Nuxalk consider that
timber taken from their lands without their consent is stolen.
The Nuxalk Nation are i n the U K to demand an
immediate recognition of their sovereignty and an immediate
end to the industrial logging on their land. The Nuxalk Nation
are asking U K timber trades to refuse to purchase any more
timber from their lands.
The Nuxalk will be helped by environmental activists
from Forest Action Network.
MAY 1997
UBCIC NEWS
AHOUSAHT BAND COUNCIL
STAKES RISING OVER ILLEGAL FISH FARM IN CLAYOQUOT SOUND
February 25, 1997 —
Chief Sam has given the
"If the province won't do its job, then we province until 5 pm, on
Ahousaht First Nations Chief
will exercise our sovereign right and act Wednesday to commit to firm
Councillor Sidney Sam vowed
on its behalf" - Chief Sidney Sam
today to enforce the province's
action on removing the fish. If
own requirement for removal of
there is no agreement in place,
fish from a salmon farm in Ahousaht traditional
the Ahousaht will enforce the government's order on
territory in Clayoquot Sound. The fish farm, operated
Thursday morning.
by Pacific National Group, is growing salmon illegally
Salmon farming is coming under increasingly
since its tenure expired in November.
scrutiny in B . C . since the start of the Salmon
" I f the province won't do its job, then we will
Aquaculture Review process undertaken by the province
exercise our sovereign right and act on its behalf," said
to assess the risks of salmon farming. A l l representatives
Chief Sam. B.C. Lands had ordered the company to
at the table other than those from industry and
remove the fish by January 31, and later extended the
government have expressed sharp concerns with the way
date to February 21. Both dates passed without action,
in which salmon fanning is presently practiced in B.C.
and now the province appears unwilling to take further
The chief concerns of fishermen, First Nations and
steps.
environmentalists include the threat of disease spreading
from exotic species of farmed salmon to wild salmon, the
The Ahousaht opposed renewal of the license
lack of regulation of drug use on salmon farms, and the
because of concerns over the negative impacts the farm
large amounts of concentrated fecal waste generated.
has had on wild salmon, herring, and shellfish in the area.
Since herring are now starting to spawn in
Contact: Chief Sidney Sam (250) 670-9563. For
Clayoquot, the Ahousaht view the provincial footinformation on the Salmon Aquaculture Review contact:
dragging as unacceptable given the potential loss to the
Howard Breen (250) 753-3459
resource.
12th Annual Intertribal Pow~Wow
Honouring Our Urban First Nations Families
Reclaiming Our Sacred Time and Space on the Pow-Wow Trail
May 9, 10, 11, 1997
Trout Lake Community Centre
3350 Victoria Drive, Vancouver, B.C.
ALCOHOL A N D D R U G FREE
Admission by Donation
Contacts: Wally Awasis (604) 874-9929 or Karen (604) 434-4246
Arts and Craft Tables contact Gord (604) 323-2568
MAY 1997
9
UBCIC NEWS
National Day of Action
Tsilhqot'in Nation supports B.C.
Native youth occupation of B.C.
Treaty Commission Office in
Vancouver.
April 18, 1997
The Tsilhqotin National
Government is in total
support of the occupation of
the British Columbia Treaty
Commission head office
boardroom in Vancouver by
about 30 members of the
Vancouver based Native
Youth Movement.
We are also in total
agreement with their
contention that the B . C .
Treaty Process is illegally
negotiating treaties with
B . C . Indians i n clear
violation of international law
that requires such treaty
negotiations to be conducted
only between national
sovereign governments and
indigenous nations [peoples].
They accuse the B C T C of
collaborating with 'socalled' native leaders of the
First Nations Summit for the
purpose of selling out the
rights of the native youth
throughout the Province of
B . C . So do we, the
Tsilhqotin National
Government.
The youth occupiers have indicated that they will respect
B C T C property during the occupation, and the Tsilhqotin
Nation advises that these youth occupiers of the B C T C
Boardroom must have their chosen forum to present their strong
message respected, and be provided with proper food and
services while they are guests of the B C T C . The B C T C will be
held fully responsible for any indignity or injury that may
happen to these Indian
representatives
NATIVE YOUTH MOVEMENT
resulting from B C T C initiated measures. We
April 25,1997 - On the 17th and 18th of April approximately 30
also call on the B C T C
Native Youth Movement members spent two days and a night occupying
to immediately open
the B . C . Treaty Commission office in downtown Vancouver.
the phone and fax lines
The occupation was in protest of the B.C. Treaty Process. The
so they can be
Native Youth Movement are 100% opposed to the treaty process. The
contacted by Indian
N Y M refused to leave until a meeting with the Treaty Commission and
nation organizations
the N Y M was set.
and their family
The Native Youth Movement stated that any Treaty Process that
members.
promotes the loss of our traditional homelands in any form is considered
T N G Deputy
treason. The Native Youth Movement reject the B C T C process and its
National Chief Ray
Nisga'a style settlement model. The Nisga'a people shall lose, 92% of
Hance said he is
their traditional homeland forever, i f the Nisga'a people ratify the
pleased that B.C.
agreement.
Native Youth have
With the assistance of Rene Taylor (an aboriginal legal services
become involved in the
lawyer in Vancouver), the date agreed upon by both parties was on or
issue of treaty making,
before A p r i l 25, 1997. This lack of commitment and deceitful
particularly by
wording of the agreement is unacceptable to the N Y M . We will hold the
protesting the
B C T C commissioners accountable to the commitment made to us as
fraudulent B.C. Treaty
Native Youth, by setting a firm meeting date.
Commission Process.
The N Y M and the B C T C have suggested a meeting date of May
"We
27,1997. The N Y M will hold the B C T C accountable to this date. Further
congratulate these
the N Y M would like to take this opportunity to warn the B C T C ; in the
young people who are
event (BCTC) continues to play games, the N Y M shall return and retaking this action for
occupy the offices of the BCTC.
the courage of their
-30convictions. We share
with them their sense
Contact: Monty Joseph (250) 493-3924 or
of
outrage at the way in
Skeena Reece (604) 688-1821
which the governments
The B C T C has further compromised internationally
recognized treaty making processes by conducting its
negotiations with Indian representatives who are not fully
mandated to do so by the Indian people they supposedly
represent.
The youth occupiers of the B C T C Boardroom have
echoed the position of the T N G that treaty negotiations can only
proceed if the Indian nation is solidly behind their leaders'
negotiation position. This means that members must be fully
informed about the issues and give their consent to their chosen
leaders to negotiate on their behalf.
of Canada and British Columbia are conspiring to deprive the
indigenous nations, by a deceitful and fraudulent process, of
territories and rights that are protected by international,
constitutional and indigenous law," he said.
Deputy National Chief Hance also issued a stern warning
to the B C T C about its treatment of the Native Youth Movement
emissaries who are presenting a valid grievance to the B C T C .
"We ask the B C T C to respect the occupants. These
young people personify the future of our nations. Every effort
must be made to listen to them and to understand what they
have to say. We ask you to do so. Freedom of communication
TNG PRESS RELEASE (Continued on Page 11)
10
SUMMER 1996
UBCIC NEWS
-April 17, 1997
SETON LAKE INDIAN BAND
Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs
April 17, 1997
Kalh wa7acw (Hello)
We welcome you to our territory!
We are stopping this train today to share an important message
with you. The land you are travelling through is the territory of
the St'at'imc People.
Fifteen years ago April 17, 1982, Queen Elizabeth II signed into
law the Constitution Act 1982 Section 35 of the Constitution;
recognize and affirms the Aboriginal and Treaty Rights of
Aboriginal peoples.
Despite this recognition and affirmation in the constitution, the
social and economic conditions of our people have not improved
over the past 15 years. Also, our people are excluded from the
amending formula in the constitution and therefore are denied
the opportunity to identify and define any further changes to
Section 35 to protect our collective Aboriginal and Treaty
Rights.
As you travel through our valley and further along in our
territory you will notice that B.C. Hydro has played a large role
in changing the face of the land. Y o u must realize that we
derive no benefit from this corporate giant.
PRESS S T A T E M E N T
Stl'atl'imx Territory, April 18, 1997
Chief Saul Terry, President of the Union of B.C. Indian
Chiefs, made these comments in support of the Native Youth
who are occupying the Treaty Commission Office to demand
changes to the process:
"The Union of B . C . Indian is proud of the Native Youth
Movement ( " N Y M " ) in their principled stand to refuse to
accept any treaties coming out of the B.C. Treaty Commission
Process. The Youth are taking action to protect the future of
their Peoples, and are demanding answers to questions which
profoundly affect their political, social and economic future in
their respective homelands."
" T h e N Y M is tired of the depressing situations
Indigenous Peoples find ourselves in, they are taking action to
ensure that any political solutions allow us to fulfill our
responsibilities and obligations as Indigenous Peoples to care
for and protect our land and rights for future generations.
"The youth are seeking the truth. The Union of B.C.
Indian Chiefs urges the Treaty Commission Office to listen to
the N Y M and recognize their right to lead us. It is, afterall,
their future which we are fighting for."
Contact, Chief Saul Terry, 250-256^1125.
TNG PRESS RELEASE (Continued from page 10)
Our community has received no compensation of any type for
the cutblocks that you will see on the opposite shore of Seton
Lake. For this reason, we feel the Federal government must
reconsider their decision to not act upon the recommendations
laid out in the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples.
The rail road tracks this '"Budd C a r ' ' is travelling over is our
land. It was taken without permission and knowledge. As you
see the tracks interfere with our use of the shore line of the
lakes within our territory.
We thank you for listening to us today, enjoy the rest of your
journey.
Hu7malh (farewell)
Chief Garry John
On behalf of Seton Lake Band
SUMMER 1996
must be assured to them. Efforts to prevent the education of the
public on these vitally important issues will only lead to more
confrontation and trouble i f any of the protesters should be
hurt."
" I f the occupants call for help, the Tsilhqot'in National
Government will respond by urging Tshilqot'in Nation
members to attend in strength. Let it be clearly understood that
this action has been caused not by our young protesters, but by
governments that continue to refuse to face the reality of
resurgent indigenous nations who ask those governments to
obey their own laws and those of the international community
of sovereign states," he said.
-30Contact: Ray Hance,
T N G Deputy National Chief
(250) 392-3918
11
UBCIC NEWS
A Message from Indian
and Northern Affairs Canada
Expiry Dates Established for Certificates of
Indian Status
The purpose of issuing Certificates of Indian Status is to
verify that the cardholder is a registered Indian. Certificates of
Indian Status are only useful if the photographs and physical
descriptions are current. It has come to our attention that some
registered Indians have been denied services because some
service providers have questioned whether their status cards are
still valid.
To remedy this situation, it has been decided that status
cards issued to individual under the age of eighteen will have an
expiry date of two years and status cards issued to individuals
over the age of eighteen will have an expiry date of five years.
This policy is effective immediately.
It should be noted that the five year expiry date does not
mean that the cardholder ceases to be a registered Indian at the
end of the five year period. It only means that i f the cardholder
intends to use the status card to obtain certain services and
benefits, it must be renewed every five years.
It should also be noted that all previous versions of the
status card will continue to be valid until January 1, 2000.
Therefore, it is very important that your renew your current
status card on or before January 1, 2000.
Should you have any questions or concerns, please
contact your Band or the Indian Registry and Bands Lists
Office, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, B.C. Region, at
(604) 666-2059
OVIDEMECREDI(Continuedfrom page 4)
Thirdly, we will focus on people l i k e M r . D i o n , the
minster o f reconciliation, the minister of reconciliation who
forgets that the aboriginal people exist and his only priority is
what's happening in the province of Quebec. So we will be
focusing on him as well in the next few weeks.
Finally, Senator Fairbairn, who has, I understand, a very
powerful influence on the Prime Minister, one of his key
advisors in his inner circle of friends. A n d on that score, I
might say that the students from the University of Calgary have
occupied his office yesterday and the Senator has agreed to meet
with them today. Depending on the outcome of these
discussions with the Senator, the students are prepared to cany
on with their protests involving her.
We will be inviting our communities across the country
to try to do things creatively with Canadians in general where
we don't create any annoyances with anybody but we try to
build public support for our issues. So what we're asking for
now is not so much slowing down traffic, which we did in 18
locations yesterday, but what we're asking for is for people to do
some cultural events, some educational sessions, and to involve
not just the politicians i n their area, like the municipal
12
Northern Ontario M.P. and Minister of Indian
Affairs and Northern Development Ronald A.
Irwin Announces Retirement From Federal
Politics
Sault Ste. Marie (April 4, 1997) - Minister of Indian
Affairs and Northern Development and Member of Parliament
for Sault Ste. Marie Ronald A . Irwin today announced that he
will not be seeking re-election in the next federal election.
' "This is a personal choice that I have made and I am
looking forward to being able to enjoy more time with my
family and friends. It has been an honour for me to serve the
government of Prime Minster Jean Chretien and the residents of
Sault Ste. Marie," said Ron Irwin.
Mr. Irwin continued, " I wish to thank my wife Margaret
and our children for their wonderful support and confidence,
which over the years has made this challenging experience so
fulfilling. I would also like to thank the people of Sault Ste.
Marie whom I have had the pleasure of representing as both
their Mayor and Member of Parliament."
Ron Irwin was first elected to the House of Commons in
1980, where he served one term. He was re-elected in the
general election of October 1993. Prime Minister Jean Chretien
appointed Ron Irwin to the federal cabinet November 4, 1993 as
the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development.
' 'I would like to thank the Prime Minister for his
friendship and guidance. I would also like to thank my
colleagues in the House of Commons who have encouraged me
and supported the work I have done. To the Elders, Chiefs,
Aboriginals, Metis, and Inuit peoples who have befriended me
and taught me, meegwetch."
For information contact:
Cate McCready, Minister's Office (819) 997-0002
politicians, but the support groups and the human rights
organizations, the church organizations, and to try to build
support for all our people i n that manner.
Apparently I forgot one very important individual who is
going to be the focus of our attention as well, and that is the
Honourable Allan Rock, the Minister of Justice. Because in
effect, what we're asking for from the Canadians is justice. He
himself is guilty i n terms of diminishing our treaty and
aboriginal rights when he introduced the gun control legislation
without due regard to the treaty rights of our people, and even
though we spoke to him on numerous occasions to discourage
him from passing the law i n the manner that he did, he refused
to listen to our people. So he will also be the focus of our
attention in the next coming weeks.
As a strategy, when the election is called, whenever that
is, and when these people go out to seek the support of our
people, we will dog them, we will follow them and we will do
whatever we can to draw attention to the plight of our people
and also try to get the support of the general public in terms of
ensuring that they vote for the candidates that are sensitive to
the needs and the issues of aboriginal people and that they hold
the current government accountable for its inactions.
MAY 1997
UBCIC NEWS
Institute of Indigenous Government
Extension Programs
EXTENSION
PROGRAMS
The Institute of Indigenous Government is committed
to expanding extension and off-campus programming to
enhance First Nation students access to our unique education
program in British Columbia, Canada and around the world.
Our goal is to deliver up to 80% of our courses "off campus" in
regional centres and Indigenous communities through the
extension program and by innovative distance learning
strategies.
Rather than sending students to a post-secondary
institution, which is usually located in urban settings, our
instructors can be sent to communities to deliver credited and
non-credited courses offered through our extension programs.
This arrangement allows students to remain in the home
community, close to family, friends and employment.
The E G is also committed to provide communitybased quality programs to all students wherever their home
communities may be located. There are presently two
extension sites in operation to date. Thefirstextension sites
are located in Saanich and Lillooet, B C .
We are anticipating additional sites at Duncan, the
William Head Correctional Centre, Lytton, Mount Currie B C
and in the Yukon Territory. Anticipated start up is aimed
for the F a l l semester of 1997.
SAANICH
EXTENSION
PROGRAM
This extension site was established in the Spring of
1996. This arrangement enables First Nations students from
the Saanich Nation, and the surrounding areas, to access
instruction, student development workshops, and community
support while pursuing their post-secondary studies.
Students at the Saanich site are enrolled part-time and
full-time in either the Certificate in Indigenous Government
Studies (30 credits) or the Associate of Arts Degree i n
Indigenous Government Studies (60 credits). The foundation
courses are being offered on an on-going basis to allow for new
applicants.
For more information on the Saanich Extension program,
contact: Paul Sam, IIG Saanich Extension Co-ordinator
Phone:(250) 652-5784 Fax:(250) 544-0538
LILLOOET EXTENSION
PROGRAM
The students at the Lillooet Extension Program are
working full-time in the community while attending six hours
of instruction one day per week. For example, IGST 101 will
alternate with I G A D 101 every other Monday. This
arrangement allows the students to remain working in their
community and stay close to family and friends.
As student enrolment increases the foundation courses
and the four principal areas of specialization will be offered to
MAY J 997
meet the demand. Evening and/or day classes can be arranged.
For more information on this exciting educational
opportunity in the Lillooet area, contact:
Marilyn Napolean,
IIG Lillooet Extension Co-ordinator,
Lillooet Tribal Council
Phone: (250) 256-7523
Fax:(250) 256-7119
ELDERS & RESOURCE
PEOPLE
Elders from the community are providing cultural,
social and spiritual guidance for the students. Their input into
Indigenous education assures that Indigenous control is being
reflected in the implementation of instruction, course
development, workshops, and student support. Elders also,
actively participate with the delivery of symposiums, workshops
and c u l t u r a l events w h i c h fully reflect indigenous
philosophy, values and experience.
Community members are also utilised to enhance
and aid in the instruction of our courses, symposiums and
workshops. To sit in on any of the Extension courses, please
contact the co-ordinators for class time and schedules.
For information on Extension Programs in your area,
contact Jennie Blankinship, Director of Extension Programs at
(604) 602-9555 or Fax (604) 602-3432.
list
Annual Provincial
E l d e r s C o n f e r e n c e '97
Okanagan Nation Elders
August 12, 13 & 14, 1997
Penticton Indian Band
Cultural & Health Workshops
Entertainment / Special Events
Special Guest: Tom Jackson
For more information contact the Penticton Indian Band
(250) 493-0048
13
UBCIC NEWS
UNITED NATIVE NATIONS
The Union Mailbox
Congratulations to the Board of Directors of Local #133
President - Margaret Prevost, Nimpkish
Vice President - Fred Arrance, Cree
Treasurer - Glen Campbell, Musqueam
Secretary - James Shorty, Yukon Territory
April 2, 1997
To whom it may concern:
HSA is a union of workers in both the health and
community sectors in the province of British Columbia.
In 1994, our members established two $500.00
scholarships to assist aboriginal students in the province of B.C.
who are pursuing education in a H S A field that would lead to a
recognized certification, degree or diploma. Thank you for your
attention to this and your assistance in "getting the message
out".
For more information about our scholarship and or to
obtain a scholarship application form please Contact CarmenAnne Menegozza at the Health Sciences Association of B.C. @
(604) 439-0994.
Sincerely,
Carmen - Anne Menegozzo
Senior Labour Relations Officer - Education & OH&S
H E A L T H SCIENCES ASSOCIATION OF B.C.
April 22, 1997
BOARD MEMBERS:
Marlene Trick, Tsimshian
Florence Hackett, Coaishes / Homalko
Norman Mark, Sechelt
Ron Chevrier, Algonquin
Nigel Morin, Metis
Hector Hill, Gitksan
THE HASTINGS RESERVATION HAS ITS OWN VOICE!!
Call Blue Jeanne for more information at (604) 688-1821
H E A L I N G O U R SPIRIT
B. C. First Nations AIDS Society
On June 7th, 1997 Barb McKinnon and I will be joining
The Great W a l k from Gold River to Tahsis - a total of 63.5
kilometers.
Please open your hearts and wallets and make a pledge to
support our efforts. A l l donations will be given to Healing Our
Spirit, B.C. First Nations AIDS Society HIV+ Fund.
Contact: Catherine Blackstock, Executive Director
(604) 983-8774
Dear Sirs:
March 19, 1997
We would like to thank-you for your past help i n
advertising our Pow-Wow. Our Pow-Wows have been a success
in the past, helping to show seven to ten thousand peoples of all
cultures the First Nations traditions. Due to our Pow-Wow
being postponed last year, we want to ensure this year's a
success by advertising to the fullest.
We depend entirely on donations and a small grant from
the City of Vancouver, to assist with the expenses. Volunteers
provide the services to stage the event, which includes a free
community feast on Saturday, along with a Mother's Day
Breakfast at Cedar Cottage on Sunday Morning. We will try to
feed as many people as possible.
Any donations are greatly appreciated. Charitable tax
receipts are available upon request.
For further information you can reach me at 434-4246.
A l l my relations
Karen E. Soldan
Co-Chairman
Cedar Cottage, Trout Lake
Traditional Pow-Wow Committee
14
Dear Collegue:
Immunization can keep children safe from many serious
illnesses, such as measles, mumps, rubella and polio. But children
need to complete their full schedule of shots to be protected. On time,
every time.
That's why the Canadian Public Health Association, in
partnership with the Canadian Medical Association, the Canadian
Paediatric Society and Health Canada, has launched the National
Immunization Awareness Program.
Children's entertainers Sharon, Lois & Bram have volunteered
their time to be featured in print public service announcements, as well
as on posters and radio spots, for this major, national campaign.
We ask your support for this campain by running the enclosed
publice service announcement in your publication. Four-colour
separations to run the announcement in colour are available upon
request.
Thank you for helping to send this important health message to
many Candians, particularly the parents of young children.
Sincerly,
Robert Burr
Director, Public Affairs and Communications
(613)725-3769
MAY 1997
UBCIC NEWS
MAP OF THE SOVEREIGN INDIGENOUS NATIONS
TERRITORIAL BOUNDARIES: JUNE, 1993
The Union of B . C . Indian Chiefs' map of the Sovereign Indigenous Nations Territorial Boundaries is the only contemporary
map that accurately shows the traditional tribal territories of the 23 Indian Nations in British Columbia. The six colour map measures
28" x 36".
The tribal territories are the homelands of distinct Nations, within which their respective peoples share a common language,
culture and traditional forms of political and social organization. These homelands have been occupied by the Indian Nations since
time immemorial. Up to the present, the Indian Nations in British Columbia have never surrendered their ownership oftheir homelands
(aboriginal title), nor have they surrendered their original sovereignty as nations to govern their homelands (inherent jurisdiction).
Information on the territorial boundaries was compiled by the Union's research portfolio and President's office between July,
1990 and April, 1993 from archival research and information provided by elders, chiefs, and tribal councils. Chief Saul Terry, President
of the Union and a graduate of the Vancouver College of Art (now the Emily Carr College of Art and Design), prepared the working
drafts for the map.
Design and cartography for the June, 1993 map was done by David Sami, chief cartographer of Multi Mapping Ltd. in
Vancouver, B.C., using a 1:2,000,000 scale base-map from the Surveys and Environment Branch of the British Columbia Ministry
ofEnvironment, Lands and Parks. A l l territorial boundaries shown on the map are subject to further revision, as additional information
becomes available. Contact the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs at (604) 684-0231 for ordering information.
28" x 36" / Scale: 1:2 000 000 / Six Colours
MAY J997
15
UBCIC NEWS
UNION OF B.C. INDIAN CHIEFS
SUBSCRIPTION
FORM
NAME:
FOR OFFICE USE O N L Y
DATE RECEIVED:.
CHEQ/M.O. #
EXPIRY DATE:
ADDRESS:
POSTAL/ZIP CODE:
PROVINCE/STATE/COUNTRY:
1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION RATES
NewsLETTER
NewsCLIPPING
Member Bands:
Individual:
$75.00
$35.00
Individual: $100.00
T O T A L AMOUNT ENCLOSED $
Please make cheque or money order payable to: UNION OF B.C. INDIAN CHIEFS, 5THFLOOR-342
VANCOUVER, B.C., V6B 1A1
CHIEFS
MASK
WATER STREET,
BOOKS
Owned and operated by the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs - 5th Floor 342 Water Street in Gastown (604) 684-0231
N O W S E R V I N G T H E INSTITUTE OF INDIGENOUS G O V E R N M E N T
ARTS & CRAFTS
-JEWELLRY
• ABORIGINAL
- POTTERY
ISSUES
• INTERNATIONAL
INDIGENOUS
-PRINTS
• LAND CLAIMS
- T-SHIRTS
- LEATHER WORK
•ART
-MASKS
• CHILDREN'S BOOKS
ACCEPTED
CONSIGNMENTS
• FIRST NATIONS
CONSIGNMENTS
ACCEPTED
BOOKS
- BEADWORK
•POETRY
- POW WOW MUSIC
CALL, WRITE OR
DROP IN TODAY!
16
- AND MUCH
MORE!
MAY 1997
Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs
NEWSLETTER
Chiefs Announce "Voice of the Peoples" gathering
commerating anniversary of Mohawk Crisis.
MAY 1997
On July 11 & 12, 1997, the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs, Stl'atl'imx Nation and Cayoose Creek Indian Band will
co-host the "Voice of the Peoples" gathering in Cayoose Creek, B.C.
his year, Chiefs Council
of the Union of B.C.
Indian Chiefs decided that the
citizens in every community
must have the opportunity to
express their concerns on the
issues affecting their well-
IN THIS ISSUE...
2. President's Message
. Penticton Indian Band
lao
. Press Conference with
Ovide Mecredi
5. Specific Claims Update
ey
6. B.C. Native Women's.-
Society
7. MEP condemns BC
Forestry Practices
8. Resource Center Update
9. 12 Annual International
Pow-Wow
10. National Day of Action
12. Ipwin Announces
Retirement
13. Insitutute of Indigenous
Government
4. UBCIC Mailbox
MAY 1997
being. Therefore, they directed
the U.B.C.1.C. to help facilitate
a Gathering on July ll & 12,
1997 at the Cayoose Creek
Camp Grounds, home of the
Stl’atl’imx Nation in Lillooet,
B.C. The discussions and
decisions must come from the
people, therefore, communities
will be asked to help organize
the event.
Federal Government’s
strategies to undermine the
inherent nights of Indian people
is being conducted without
adequate communication with
citizens of Indian nations.
Politically in British Columbia,
decisions are being made to
force Indian Bands into self-
government agreements which
will extinguish the Aboriginal
Title and Rights and assimilate
bands into mainstream
Canadian society. How many
people understand that well
enough toapree to this process?
This is one reason why we must
gather together to become
informed and develop plans of
action to solve this problem if
we hope to contain our political
rights as Indian nations into
the future.
Itis time to be heard and
as Nations of people find ways
to defend and protect our lands
and resources. The “*Voice of
the Peoples’’ will bring many
people into a political action to
express major concerns of the
communities. The challenge is
for Chiefs and Council and their
people to take up the call for
political action by holding
information meetings before
the Gathering and develop short
and long term goals on
Aboriginal Title and Rights.
Our past Elders, Political
Leaders, Spiritual Leaders and
Peoples had visions for Indian
Government all over the North
and South American continent
- it is up to us to reaffirm our
responsibility to care for and
protect the land and build on
the dreams they left for us to
fulfill, We want the reservations
to remain holistic and
productive but how can that
remain intact in negotiating co-
existence with the Canadian
people?
We want communities
that are clean, safe, wholesome
and provide opportunities for
the families but the social ills
appear to overpower any
meaningful efforts we put into
health and education services.
There are a hundred and one
organizations existing just on
land claims and they interfere
with the affairs of the
communities. This type of
interference confuses people
and affects good decisions that
have to be made.
We cannot ask the
citizens of Indian nations to
join in this Gathering just to
talk - it is time for action. As
Chiefs weare prepared to listen.
€
Joint Policy Council
What is it and what can it
do for you? p.7
back timber. p.8
Ahousaht Takes Aim at
Illegal Fish Farm. p.9
Seton Lake Indian Band
Applies the Brakes to the
"Budd Car"p.11
21st Annual Provincial
Elders Conference '97 p.13
UBCIC NEWS
Chief Saul Terry, X'wisten
v ood evening Committee Members of the Standing
Committee on Aboriginal Affairs. I am permitting
myself to be transmitted to you via this rather impersonal if not
depersonalizing video teleconference technology. Permit me to
introduce myself.
I have been elected to the Council of my community for the
last twenty-four years. Between 1978 and 1983 I was elected Vice
President of the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs. The Chiefs, my
colleagues, have honored me to be their President in the last
fourteen years. I cite these facts not to brag but to illustrate that I
have witnessed many politicians from your institutions come and
go without addressing the issues that plague our Peoples between
your elections. I am here, this day, to reiterate that there is a better
way than Bill C-79 to improve Indian/Canada relations. Some of
those ideas are touched upon in the Assembly of First Nations’
presentation by National Chief Ovide Mercredi. Therefor I want
it put on record for you as the Committee on Aboriginal Affairs, for
the Prime Minister, the Honorable John Chretien, for my fellow
Chiefs and especially for the Peoples in our terntories that the
Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs concur with the message the Assembly
of First Nations presented to you on March 6, 1997.
On another occasion I appeared before the Standing
Committee on Aboriginal Affairs on behalf of the Union of B.C.
Indian Chiefs in March 1991 because I felt strongly about the state
of siege over our people in Indian country. That year I was
heartened to witness actions taken by the Mohawk peoples in
defending their territory and at that time I said to Committee
Members: time and again we as Chiefs have to call your attention
to the crisis situations facing our people in Canada. I am sorry to
say that little has changed in the past few years.
I also looked at the Discussion Notes on the Indian Act
produced by the Department of Indian & Northern Affairs in 1971
in which they state that ““The Indian Act represents special
legislation taking precedence over provincial legislation which the
Parliament of Canada considers is essential to the needs of the
Indian people not only as a safeguard to proiect their treaty and
property rights, but as a means of promoting their advancement.”’
If indeed Parliament terms the Indian Act as special legislation it
must be for good reason. That reason stems from Indian-Crown
relations, a special relationship out of which arises lawful obligations
for the Government of Canada respecting Indian Nations. It is
wrong for any Minister to make changes to this special legislation
for political expediency unless our people are fully informed and
Messa gre
Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs
Submission on The Indian Act
Optional Modification Act (Bill C-79) to Standing
Committee On Aboriginal Affairs & Northern
Development - Vancouver, B.C. March 11, 1997.
From
the President
"The people of Canada and Our CiLizZens
in our homelands. must know the irue source —
of their: political disempowerinent, social
dispatr, poverty andspritaldrsulusionment ‘a
: 7
through our collective free will give our consent. After all, there
are Treaties and the Trust obligation which must be lived up to -
by both parties- your government and our governments.
It is hard to believe that any Minister placed in a position of
honor and trust would deliberately try to lead our people down a
path riddled with mine fields targeting our Aboriginal and Treaty
Rights. The Minister’s unilateral action compounds the mistrust
and uncertainty which now exist in our communities. Ican say with
confidence that the deliberate sequence has led us to this day and
which one again prompts me to sound the alarm to protect the
Aboriginal Title and Rights of the people. The people of Canada
and our citizens in our homelands must know the true source of
their political disempowerment, social dispair, poverty and spiritual
disillusionment.
For your information, in 1986 the Auditor-General criticized
the Department of Indian Affairs’ land management program.
What created the problem we are having now is the fact that the
Department decided to change the way they do business with
Indian Bands to avoid possible litigation from First Nations
because of the Guerin Decision. The fact is the Department sought
input from Chiefs to improve on the land management program
and Chiefs responded because we know this issue well. But this was
not good enough for the Department who instead added a whole
range of studies under the ‘*Lands, Revenues and Trust Review.”’
Millions of dollars were spent (41,000,000 in our estimation) on
that process and in the end all of it was shelved except for the
Chartered Land Management Proposal, Indian Gas and Oil and
Monies.
These proposals have been worked and reworded because
our Chiefs would not endorse them. It is now called the ““Optional
Land Management Proposal For Specific First Nations’’ or Bill C-
75. Itis geared towards just 13 Indian Bands. It played a large part
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
(Continued on page 3)
2
MAY 1997
UBCIC NEWS
Penticton Indian Band
Press Statement
April 17, 1997 - Elders and members of the Penticton
Indian Band, at a community meeting last night, directed the
Penticton Indian Band Council to issue a public statement to the
effect that:
“*As a direct result of Fraser Martin’s threat to sue the
Penticton Indian Band or either of the Similkameen Bands if
the Bands acquire an interest in the Apex Ski Resort; the
Penticton Indian Band has abruptly abandoned its efforts to seek
a peaceful resolution of the Apex Ski Resort by way of entering
into a joint-venture arrangement with one of the six investor
groups who have indicated an interest in acquiring the ski
resort.
In addition, the Penticton Indian Band takes this
opportunity to serve notice that its membership shall actively
renew their commitment and efforts to fully protect the
environment within the Apex Ski Resort area.’’ The Penticton
Indian Band finds these current circumstances to be extremely
regrettable.
We, like the six investor groups have invested a great
deal of time, effort and expense in our attempts to negotiate a
joint-venture arrangement that would allow for the long-term
operation and stability of the Apex Ski Resort.
Further, we would like to remind all parties that we have
made every effort to seek a peaceful resolution to this long-
standing dispute. At the outset, we negotiated and signed, in
good faith, the Initial Agreement which contained the necessary
provisions to settle the Apex Ski Resort/Penticton Indian Band
dispute. The Initial agreement was signed by three Provincial
Government Cabinet Ministers. On August 30, 1995 the
Province ‘‘breached’’ the Initial Agreement and “‘walked
away’ from the Initial Agreement.
Subsequent to court proceedings and the imposition of an
injunction directing members of the PIB to refrain from
impeding traffic on Green Mountain Rd., the members of the
PIB have respected the court injunction. Finally, in an act of
‘good-will’ the Penticton Indian Band allowed the Province to
repair and pave Green Mountain Road last October in return for
the Provinces commitment to undertake a full scale
environmental assessment of the Seven Peaks area. To
date, no such commitment has been made by the province.
Again, the Penticton Indian Band finds it extremely
Tegrettable that, in spite of our best efforts to avoid further
conflict, the irresponsible and selfish actions of one individual
and the continued bungling of the Provincial government, the
entire economy of the South Okanagan has been placed in
jeopardy
Chief Stewart Phillip, Okanagan Nation
(250) 493-3924 / 490-5166
MAY 1997
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
(Continued from page 2)
in prompting the Minister to amending the Indian Act.
The Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs opposes any attempt
by the Canadian Government to diminish the unceded
land base of our Peoples.
We have suggested a Treaty with Canada ona
Nation to Nation basis which promises long Political,
Social and Economic benefits for our Peoples. The
problem we have with the present process is that the
trust relationship we have with the Crown is being
changed arbitrarily. The Minister is refusing to hear
the options we have.
In conclusion, the approach Minister Irwin has
taken raises many serious socio-economic questions.
It is a grave understatement to allude to the Optional
Modification Act changes as cosmetic or superficial.
Ifallowed to proceed they shall profoundly continue to
affect our Peoples’ Political, Social, Economic, Cultural
and Spiritual existence. Lu
Ls)
Penticton Indian Band
PRESS RELEASE
March 4, 1997--Today, the Westbank First nation held
negotiations with the Federal and Provincial government
officials with respect to Westbank Indian Band’s involvement in
the British Columbia Treaty Commission (BCTC) Process.
Penticton Indian Band Councillors Joan Phillip and
Pierre Kruger attended this meeting and formally registered the
Penticton Indian Band’s opposition to the Westbank First
Nation’s involvement in the B.C. Treaty Commission process,
for the following reasons:
1. That the Okanagan Traditional Territory is indivisible. No
single community such as Westbank First Nation, has the right
to negotiate a portion of Okanagan Territory;
2. Further that, the Westbank First nation requires the consent
of the remaining six (6) Okanagan Nation communities, as
follows:
Okanagan Indian Band, Penticton Indian Band, Osoyoos
Indian Band, Upper Similkameen Indian Band, Lower
Similkameen Indian Band, Upper Nicola Indian Band.
Under no circumstances will the Penticton Indian Band
allow this fraudulent process to continue. If the Westbank First
Nation continues to pursue this fraudulent Treaty precess, the
Penticton Indian Band shall be forced to sue the Federal
Government, the Province of B.C., the B.C. Treaty
Commission, and the Westbank First Nation.
-3G-
Contact : Councillor Joan Phillip
(250) 493-3924 or (250) 493-0048
UBCIC NEWS
Press Conference with Ovide Mecredi of
Assembly of First Nations - April 18, 1997
obvious to my people and the Chiefs
* across the country that the Prime
Minister still refuses to address our
people’s needs and desires for reform in
this country. All that we wanted from
him yesterday was to agree to meet with
the Chiefs and himself to begin a
dialogue on the Royal Commission. We
never asked him to state any position on
any recommendation. We just simply
asked him to meet with us to begin a
dialogue on how we’re going to work
together on the recommendations.
And we're not naive. We have
been around many years too, we know
how government works. And we’ve
never said we agree with all the
recommendations. We've said we agree
with the report in principle. It’s a
blueprint for reform, it’s a foundation for
negotiating with the government of
Canada and the provinces a new
relationship, a better life for the First
Nations across this country. We’re not
expecting the Government of Canada to
come and tell us at the very initial
meeting we agree with all 440
recommendations.
But what we are expecting of
them is to show good faith so that they
give some hope to our people and the
good faith that we’re expecting from
them is to agree to sit down with us on a
continuing basis to discuss the
recommendations, to try and reach a
consensus on the contents of the report
4} t’s quite obvious to me and will be
for implementation. And the
implementation can take the form of
immediate changes, the implemenation
cant take the form of long-term changes.
But we are prepared to discuss with the
Prime Minister and the premiers how
this can be accomplished over time.
And I repeat by saying that I am
very disappointed that the Prime
Minister is dismissing that simple
request to meet with us, and is thereby
ignoring our demands for reform in this
country. So I’m here to say to him and
to the Canadian people that we will
escalate the protests, the rallies, and the
political action that we started yesterday,
that we will do this as long as we have to
until such time as the Prime Minister
agrees to meet with the Chiefs across this
country in a meeting convened jointly by
himself and the Assembly of First
Nations.
I’ve already talked to my national
executive and we have agree to maintain
pressure on the federal goverment. But
this time I wanted to be very clear to the
Canadian people that what we will do is
not to target the Canadians. We don’t
want to inconvenience the Canadian
people themselves. It is not the
Canadians in this country who are
holding back progress; it’s the Pime
Minister, it’s the federal government.
So our strategy involves the
following elements: First, we will be
inviting all the premiers to join forces
with the Chiefs and the Assembly of
First Nations in encouraging the Prime
Minister to convene a meeting with the
people that I represent so that we can
begin dialogue with the federal
government.
Secondly, we will be advising the
premiers to also indicate their
willingness to sit down with the Prime
Minister and the aboriginal people to
begin discussions on the report itself,
because one of the recommendations of
the Royal Commission is for the Prime
Minister to convene a meeting of
himself, the premiers, and the aboriginal
leaders for discussions on the Royal
Commission.
We will target specific individuals
in the Government of Canada for our
political protests. That includes the
Prime Minister himself because he is
ultimately responsible for the lack of
progress on Indian Affairs and Indian
policy this country. It is his government
that is making the people poorer than
they were when the Conservatives were
in power, and it is his government that
has made all these enlightened promises
that he failed to deliver on, and it is his
government that’s refusing to sit down
with the Chiefs and talk about the Royal
Commission. So we’ll be focusing on
him specifically as the Prime Minister.
In addition, we will target Paul
Martin, the minister who is responsible
for all the cutbacks in this country, the
person that we personally hold
responsible for all the pain and suffering
in our communities because of the
cutbacks that he has implemented in
order to meet the desires of the business
community at the expense of the poor in
this country.
OVIDE MECREDI (Continued on page 12)
ROTISKENRAKETE WARRIOR SOCIETY
On Apmil 21, 1997, the Rotiskenrakete Warrior Society from different territories within the Kanienkehaka (Mohawk) met to
discuss the recent conflict between the Seneca Nation of Indian and the New York State Police and New York State
Department of Taxation. The Rotiskenrakete are closely monitoring the situation and are in contact with our Seneca broth-
ers, According to Kaienerekowa (Great Law of Peace) the Seneca are a brother to the Kanienkehaka. As the mend of the
Kanienkehaka, it is our duty by Law to stand and assist our Seneca brothers in their time of need.
The Rotiskenrakete are in full support of the position the Seneca Nation of Indians have taken in opposition of taxation in the
sovereign Seneca Territories.
We encourage all Onkwehonwe people to show their support for the Seneca People. Multiply this Press Release and send it out.
MAY 1997
UBCIC NEWS
Specific Claims Research Program
Update
Record Group 10
Anyone involved in research related to aboriginal peoples
knows how complicated and time-consuming the work can be.
There are many sources to consult and the records are not always
easy to find. Researchers who undertake projects that involve the
use of government documents may be obliged to look through
records created by a variety of government departments to find the
information they need. The starting point for this type of research
is often the records of the Department of Indian Affairs, with either
active records held at the Department or historical files held at the
National Archives of Canada.
Record Group 10, or RG 10, is the designation
given by the National Archives to records created by the Department
of Indian Affairs and transferred to the Archives. RG 10 is the
largest record group at the National Archives relating to native
issues and is generally the first stop for most researchers. The
original order of the records is maintained by the Archives which
means that researchers must rely on the Inventory and finding
aids, created by archivists who specialise in RG 10, to help them
locate pertinent files. Finding individual documents within RG 10,
or within any large body of records, cannot be done in one step.
Researchers must narrow the search by moving from the Inventory
to individual finding aid lists, then to volumes (the term used for
the storage boxes), on to files, and finally to documents—all the
while bearing in mind changes the Department made over time to
its filing systems and administrative jurisdictions.
Within the RG 10 Inventory records descriptions are
divided into four broad groupings: Pre-Confederation Headquarters’
records; Post-Confederation Headquarters’ records; Field Office
Records; and Miscellaneous Land records. Each one of these
groupings is broken down into sub-groups within the Inventory to
help researchers narrow their search.
RG 10 records are stored at the National Archives in
Ottawa as well as in regional Records Centres across Canada.
Records created by the Department of Indian Affairs in British
Columbia have, since 1984-85, been transferred to the National
Archives at the Vancouver Federal Records Centre in Burnaby.
Many ofthe RG 10 records stored in Ottawa have been microfilmed
and are available through inter-institutional loan.
The UBCIC Resource Centre holds a comprehensive
collection of RG 10 microfilm including copies of the Inventory
and many of the most useful finding aids. Through its Research
Department, the Union periodically offers workshops which look
at RG 10 in detail and allow researchers to gain first-hand
experience using this complex record group.
Kwakiutl District Council
March 8, 1997
The Cabinet
Province of British Columbia
Parliament Buildings
Victoria, B.C. V8V 1X8
Dear Premiers and Ministers,
Re: Deer and Eagle Island Settlement Agreement
In reference to the above, it has been brought to our
attention that a negotiated Settlement Agreement has been
reached on this long outstanding issue between the Kwakiutl
Band, Halcan Logging Ltd. and the Province of British
Columbia.
As you may know these Islands are an integral part of
the Kwakiutl Douglas Treaty and continues to be an important
food and recreation area, not only for the Kwakiutl but also for
the surrounding non-Aboriginal community. It is also a burial
site in pre-contact and contact times.
We understand that the Province has displayed a great
deal of patience in coming to this agreement over the past ten
years. You are to be congratulated for that patience.
We understand that Canada is prepared to fast track this
Agreement through the office of Specific Claims West. It is
hoped that this will be accomplished on or before 2 April, 1997
in order to meet time lines contained in the Agreement.
We strongly support this agreement as it will prove that
there is a willingness on the part of all parties that there is an
alternative to litigation that would be unnecessarily costly for ail
Parties concerned.
We encourage you to act with all due consideration to
put this matter to a just and equitable close. We look forward to
an early and favourable response.
Yours truly,
David Hunt,
Chairman, Kwakiutl District Council
cc Glenn Robertson, MLA
MAY 1997
UBCIC NEWS
B.C. Native Women’s Society
embargoed till 10 a.m. P.S.T. March 19, 1997
Press Conference : 10:00 a.m. Room 1
Trout Lake Community Centre
3350 Victoria Drive at 14th
‘*We can’t seem to get the government’s attention
without a writ in our back pocket,’’ said Jane Gottfriedson,
President of the B.C. Native Women’s Society, announcing a
Federal Court action against the Minister of Indian Affairs over
discrimination against women in the Indian Act and in the
recently introduced Indian Land Management Framework
Agreement legislation.
“‘The Indian Act continues to discriminate against
women in several ways,’’ Gottfriedson continued. ‘‘We have
been telling the government about that, asking them to remedy
the discrimination, and finally drafting remedial legislation for
them. But there has been no action in response to our requests.
And now they are trying to pass the buck to the bands to deal
with the problem.’’
Plaintiffs in the action are the B.C. Native Women’s
Society and two individual native women, Jane Gottfriedson of
the Lower Similkameen Band and Teressa Nahanee of the
Squamish Band. The lawsuit concerms the situation of married
aboriginal women on reserves, who cannot get a share on the
matrimonial home or an order for exclusive possession of the
matrimonial home when their marriage breaks up.
The courts have held that provincial family laws, which
provides these remedies to every other woman in Canada, do
not apply on reserves because there is a conflict between them
and the Indian Act. The lawsuit says that this legal situation
discriminates against Aboriginal women, and is contrary to the
Charter of Rights. It is also a breach of the federal
government’s fiduciary responsibility to Aboriginal women.
Meanwhile, the federal government has signed
agreements in principle with fourteen bands which will devolve
responsibility for the administration of lands on reserve to the
band level. The lawsuit asks for a declaration that the
goverment cannot contract out of its fiduciary responsibility.
Gottfriedson and Mclvor were particularly angry that the
federal government had not consulted them about the proposed
land management framework agreement. “‘We wrote to the
government in November and asked to be heard during their
consultations. The next thing we hear, it is March and they are
telling us that there is only one more teleconference hearing, in
Edmonton just four days later. There was no way that we could
get there to make our views known. The high handed way the
government treated its consultation process - - we understand
they have had virtually NO input from Aboriginal women’s
groups in this consultation - - reflects their generally dismissive
attitude to Aboriginal women.”’
Said Viola Thomas, speaking for the United Native
Nations in support of the lawsuit, ‘“The problem of internalized
racism against Aboriginal women has existed since the
introduction of the Indian Act in 1876. This Act is a tool by the
federal government to divide and conquer our Aboriginal
Peoples. The Indian Act defines who our citizens are and it is
based on a patriarchal system that did not honour and respect
our matriarchal cultures. This system has forced our cultures to
not always act in ways that value or pay homage to Aboriginal
women. Because many married women leave their reserves to
go to their husband’s reserves when they get married, they often
have to leave the community they have lived in with their
husband and children for many years, when their marriage
breaks up. This is just one example of how the Indian Act has
forced Aboriginal peoples to discriminate against our women.”’
Fay Blaney, speaking for the National Action Committee
on the Status of Women and the Aboriginal Women’s Action
Network also supported the action. She said, ‘‘Colonialism and
historic injustices can easily be dismissed as the sins of our
great grandparents. But who will be answerable for the
institutionalized racism that Aboriginal women endure today?
Is there any accountability for the systemic abuses which results
in our disenfranchisement from our cultures? Our banishment
from our homelands? The genocidal laws and policies of the
state are completely hostile to the perspectives and status of
Aboriginal woman. The actions of our leadership clearly
indicate that the patriarchal intentions of the colonial agenda
has been successful. The position taken by the Assembly of
First Nations in the Bull C-31 discussions and the Constitutional
discussions are evidence of an ingrained patriarchal mentality.
I challenge our male-dominated leadership to return to our
traditions of honouring and respecting our women. Can they
support the BCNWS in this court challenge? I challenge our
““Indian Act Masters’’ to devise a meaningful process that
would end century long genocidal practices. After all,
aboriginal women have human rights too.”’
Eileen O’Brian on behalf of DAWN Canada, added ‘‘As
disabled women, including disabled aboriginal women, we
know how hard it 1s to fight against something that is wrong.
We are proud to support the B.C. Native Women’s Society in its
action against the federal government.
The Press Conference announcing the lawsuit was
attended by B.C. Native Women Society, the United Native
Nations, the Aboriginal Women’s Council, the Aboriginal
Women’s Action Network, DAWN Canada, the National
Action Committee on the Status of Women, and the Vancouver
Status of Women.
-30-
Contact: Jane Gottfriedson, President of B.C. Native Women’s
Society (250) 499-7897 or Barbara Findlay, Counsel for B.C.
Native Women’s Society (604) 687-8752
6
MAY 1997
THE JOINT POLICY COUNCIL
WHAT IS IT AND WHAT CAN IT DO FOR YOU?
WHAT IS IT?
The Joint Policy Council is:
*YOUR VOICE at policy table discussions with the Provincial
Government on important issues that affect your community!
*YOUR VISION of building a government to government
relationship with the Province without sacrificing Abonginal
title and Rights!
The JPC was established to provide a strong regional
voice for Nations who do not believe that the B.C. Treaty
Commission represents their principles, beliefs, and interests.
UBCIC Chiefs Council meets regularly with Cabinet ministers
to negotiate a wide range of policy issues of urgent concern to
Indian Nations. Many communities are struggling with issues
related to roads, forestry, fisheries, health and welfare,
education, to name a few. Faced with dwindling resources, it
sometimes feels like we have no voice. It is more important than
ever to empower ourselves, to reaffirm our beliefs, and to make
sure that government hears us, The JPC is one way to do this.
WHAT CAN IT DO FOR YOU?
The JPC is one part of the UBCIC ALTERNATIVE to
the B.C. TREATY process! The Union continues to lobby for
anation-to-nation treaty process with the Federal Government
and has developed a COMPREHENSIVE FRAMEWORK
TREATY that would ensure that our Aboriginal Title and
Rights are NOT EXTINGUISHED!
UBCIC Chiefs Council and staff are working hard to
make sure that YOUR VOICE is heard and YOUR VISION is
realized, but the potential POWER of the Joint Policy Council
will really come from YOU!
KNOWLEDGE IS POWER! Ask your Chiefs Council or
Nation representative about the UBCIC COMPREHENSIVE
FRAMEWORK TREATY and the JOINT POLICY COUNCIL
mandate and activities. Call the UBCIC JPC Coordinator to
find out more or to provide ideas and information.
Heipto make the JPC a successful forum for policy development
by learning about it and becoming involved. Make sure your
VOICE and VISION are expressed! Now more than ever-
UNITED WE STAND-DIVIDED WE PERISH!
Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs
Paulette Regan, JPC Coordinator
Phone: (604) 684-0231 Fax: (604) 684-5726
UBCIC NEWS
European Parliament MEP
Condemns B.C. Forest Practices
Brussels, Belgium - April 17, 1997,
Today, Irene Soltwedel-Schafer, European Union MEP
(Member of European Parliament), released and in-depth report
condemning B.C. forest practices. It was delivered today to the
Canadian Diplomatic Mission to the European Union in
Brussels as well as various political advisors and journalists.
Entitled ‘‘Clear-cutting: forestry and landrights in
Canada,’’ the 20 page report is the result of a 1995 Canadian
Government sponsored study tour originally intended to present
an image of ‘‘world-class logging’’ to invited MEP’s.
The report concluded that clear-cuts are still happening,
that the Forest Practices Code has failed, and that First Nations
still have no land rights, citing the 1995 Nuxalk Nation /Forest
Action Network Logging Blockade on King Island as an
example. Among her many references is an anti-clear-cut
treatise drawn up by the New Brunswick Small Woodlot
Owners Association.
She also accuses the B.C. Treaty Commission process of
being a federal extinguishment policy which will remove all
rights of First Nations and pave the way for future
industrial exploitation.
FINAL ARGUMENTS START
IN GUSTAFSEN LAKE TRIAL
Landmark Decision Expected Soon
April 24, 1997, VANCOUVER, Salish Territory — The longest and
most costliest court case in Canadian history, Regina v. Mary Jane
Pena et. al. known as the Gustafsen Lake trial, today began final
arguments at the special high-security court room in Surrey, B.C.
Prosecution and defence summations are expected to last for four to
five days meaning the jury may deliberate as soon as Wednesday of
next week.
Throughout this trial Canada’s national police force, the
RCMP, have provided evidence that they conspired and carried out
"smear and disinformation" campaigns against the Sundance Defend-
ers and their lawyer Dr. Bruce Clark. Peter Montague, Chief RCMP
Media Liaison Officer for British Columbia, was in the trial caught on
an intemal RCMP "training" videotape as saying "Smear campaigns
are our specialty.”
The sundance defenders allege that many of the significant
events during the siege were staged or fabricated by the RCMP. The
RCMP have introduced little evidence to contradict the Sundancer’s
allegations.
"The RCMP have been caught lying under oath on several
accounts throughout this trial which further exemplifies the
Sundancer's position that the RCMP fabricated numerous incidents
including the August 27, 1995, incident [where two RCMP officers
were alleged to have been ambushed and shot] to justify a kill at the
camp,” said Tsepten Defence Committee Spokesperson Splitting the
Sky. "And we do not think the RCMP were acting alone in this. We
believe they were acting on instruction and with the approval of their
political masters - provincial and federal politicians such as B.C.'s
Attomey General, Ujjal Dosanjh."
MAY 1997
UBCIC NEWS
RESOURCE CENTRE UPDATE
e have discovered that not all of British Columbia is
covered on the Census reels that we recently acquired for
1881, 1891 and 1901. We suspect some areas of the
province may have been included in the census for Alberta
and/or the NWT. We have two census catalogues on order
from the National Archives which we hope will help us sort it
out. If there are areas of B.C. covered on reels we do not
have, we will order these reels so that our census for B.C. is
as complete as possible. We also suspect that there are
some areas of the province which the census takers did not
cover because of barriers such as inclement weather, rugged
access to remote areas, etc.
We have two new voiunteers in the Resource Centre.
Dorine Cyr and Alma Peters are going to continue our project
to get brief records for all items in our Paul Chartrand Special
Collection on our automated catalogue. We also hope to hire
two summer students with the heip of goverment grants.
These siudents will help with additional cataloguing projects.
For anyone who is coming to Vancouvertodoresearch,
the Resource Centre will have evening hours in May and
June to provide access for the Institute of Indigenous
Govemment students who take spring semester courses at
the iG. The Resource Centre will be open late on Tuesdays
and Thursdays until 8 p.m. from the week of May 19th
through to the end of June. Mondays, Wednesdays and
Fridays we will be open until 4:30 p.m.
Sarah Nighswander will be replacing Sarah Torsky,
our cataloguer, when she goes on matemity leave in June. It
will be a busy summer training and supervising summer
students and helping our new cataloguer settle into her job.
inthe next newsletter, we will be announcing acquisition
of new CD-ROM products which will be very helpful to
researchers. We are setting up a separate workstation for
these information databases and will let you know when
everything is running smoothly and we are able to make them
available for use.
NUXALK AND FOREST
ACTION NETWORK
STEAL BACK TIMBER FROM
UK TIMBER YARD
Embargo: 15:00 GMT,
Wed, 9 Apmil 1997
MANCHESTER, UK - The Nuxalk First Nation will
“*steal back’’ Western Red Cedar from a six acre timber yard
which they accuse of handling stolen timber.
On Wednesday afternoon they will enter and ‘ethically
shoplift’’ large planks of timber from the yard of one of the
largest timber importers in the UK. They will hand the timber
in to Stretford police station, where they will ask the police to
charge the timber yard with handling stolen property.
Companies such as Interfor and MacMillan Bloedel have
sent material to Manchester.
These forests are the traditional lands of the Nuxalk First
Nation. They depend on the forest for their livelihood for
fishing and for their cultural and spiritual survival. The Nuxalk
are a sovereign nation and have not given permission for the
extraction of timber from their lands. The Nuxalk consider that
timber taken from their lands without their consent is stolen.
The Nuxalk Nation are in the UK to demand an
immediate recognition of their sovereignty and an immediate
end to the industrial logging on their land. The Nuxalk Nation
are asking UK timber trades to refuse to purchase any more
timber from their lands.
The Nuxalk will be helped by environmental activists
from Forest Action Network.
MAY 1997
UBCIC NEWS
pS b
STAKES RISING OVER ILLEGAL FISH FARM IN CLAYOQUOT SOUND
Chief Sam has given the
February 25, 1997 —
Ahousaht First Nations Chief
Councillor Sidney Sam vowed
today to enforce the province’s
own requirement for removal of
fish from a salmon farm in Ahousaht traditional
territory in Clayoquot Sound. The fish farm, operated
by Pacific National Group, is growing salmon illegally
since its tenure expired in November.
“‘If the province won't do its job, then we will
exercise our sovereign nght and act on its behalf,”’ said
Chief Sam. B.C. Lands had ordered the company to
remove the fish by January 31, and later extended the
date to February 21. Both dates passed without action,
and now the province appears unwilling to take further
steps.
The Ahousaht opposed renewal of the license
because of concems over the negative impacts the farm
has had on wild salmon, herring, and shellfish in the area.
Since herring are now starting to spawn in
Clayoquot, the Ahousaht view the provincial foot-
dragging as unacceptable given the potential loss to the
TESOUICE.
"Tf the province won't do its job, then we
will exercise our sovereign right and act
on its behalf” - Chief Sidney Sam
province until 5 pm, on
Wednesday to commit to firm
action on removing the fish. If
there is no agreement in place,
the Ahousaht will enforce the government’s order on
Thursday moming.
Salmon farming is coming under increasingly
scrutiny in B.C. since the start of the Salmon
Aquaculture Review process undertaken by the province
to assess the nsks of salmon farming. All representatives
at the table other than those from industry and
government have expressed sharp concerns with the way
in which salmon farming is presently practiced in B.C.
The chief concerns of fishermen, First Nations and
environmentalists include the threat of disease spreading
from exotic species of farmed salmon to wild salmon, the
lack of regulation of drug use on salmon farms, and the
large amounts of concentrated fecal waste generated.
Contact: Chief Sidney Sam (250) 670-9563. For
information on the Salmon Aquaculture Review contact:
Howard Breen (250) 753-3459
12th Annual Intertribal Pow~Wow
Honouring Our Urban First Nations Families
Reclaiming Our Sacred Time and Space on the Pow-Wow Trail
May 9, 10, 11, 1997
Trout Lake Community Centre
3350 Victoria Drive, Vancouver, B.C.
ALCOHOL AND DRUG FREE
Admission by Donation
Contacts: Wally Awasis (604) 874-9929 or Karen (604) 434-4246
Arts and Craft Tables contact Gord (604) 323-2568
MAY 1997
UBCIC NEWS
National Day of Action
Tsilhgot’in Nation supports B.C.
Native youth occupation of B.C.
Treaty Commission Office in
Vancouver.
April 18, 1997
The Tsilhgotin National
Government is in total
support of the occupation of
the British Columbia Treaty
Commission head office
boardroom in Vancouver by
about 30 members of the
Vancouver based Native
Youth Movement.
We are also in total
agreement with their
contention that the B.C.
Treaty Process is illegally
negotiating treaties with
B.C. Indians in clear
violation of international law
that requires such treaty
negotiations to be conducted
only between national
sovereign governments and
indigenous nations [peoples].
They accuse the BCTC of
collaborating with ‘so-
called’ native leaders of the
First Nations Summit for the
purpose of selling out the
nights of the native youth
throughout the Province of
B.C. So do we, the
Tsilhgotin National
Government.
The BCTC has further compromised internationally
recognized treaty making processes by conducting its
negotiations with Indian representatives who are not fully
mandated to do so by the Indian people they supposedly
represent.
The youth occupiers of the BCTC Boardroom have
echoed the position of the TNG that treaty negotiations can only
proceed if the Indian nation is solidly behind their leaders’
negotiation position. This means that members must be fully
informed about the issues and give their consent to their chosen
leaders to negotiate on their behalf.
The youth occupiers have indicated that they will respect
BCTC property during the occupation, and the Tsilhqotin
Nation advises that these youth occupiers of the BCTC
Boardroom must have their chosen forum to present their strong
Message respected, and be provided with proper food and
services while they are guests of the BCTC. The BCTC will be
held fully responsible for any indignity or injury that may
NATIVE YOUTH MOVEMENT
Apmil 25, 1997 - On the 17th and 18th of April approximately 30
Native Youth Movement members spent two days and a night occupying
the B.C. Treaty Commission office in downtown Vancouver.
The occupation was in protest of the B.C. Treaty Process. The
Native Youth Movement are 100% opposed to the treaty process. The
NYM refused to leave until a meeting with the Treaty Commission and
the NYM was set.
The Native Youth Movement stated that any Treaty Process that
promotes the loss of our traditional homelands in any form is considered
treason. The Native Youth Movement reject the BCTC process and its
Nisga’a style settlement model. The Nisga’a people shall lose, 92% of
their traditional homeland forever, if the Nisga’a people ratify the
agreement.
With the assistance of Rene Taylor (an aboriginal legal services
lawyer in Vancouver), the date agreed upon by both parties was on or
before April 25, 1997. This lack of commitment and deceitful
wording of the agreement is unacceptable to the NYM. We will hold the
BCTC commissioners accountable to the commitment made to us as
Native Youth, by setting a firm meeting date.
The NYM and the BCTC have suggested a meeting date of May
27,1997. The NYM will hold the BCTC accountable to this date, Further
the NYM would like to take this opportunity to warn the BCTC; in the
event (BCTC) continues to play games, the NYM shall return and re-
occupy the offices of the BCTC.
-30-
Contact: Monty Joseph (250) 493-3924 or
Skeena Reece (604) 688-1821
happen to these Indian
representatives
resulting from BCTC -
initiated measures. We
also call on the BCTC
to immediately open
the phone and fax lines
so they can be
contacted by Indian
nation organizations
and their family
members.
TNG Deputy
National Chief Ray
Hance said he is
pleased that B.C.
Native Youth have
become involved in the
issue of treaty making,
particularly by
protesting the
fraudulent B.C. Treaty
Commission Process.
“*We
congratulate these
young people who are
taking this action for
the courage of their
convictions. We share
with them their sense
of outrage at the way in
which the governments
of Canada and British Columbia are conspiring to deprive the
indigenous nations, by a deceitful and fraudulent process, of
territones and nights that are protected by international,
constitutional and indigenous law,’’ he said.
Deputy National Chief Hance also issued a stern warning
to the BCTC about its treatment of the Native Youth Movement
emissaries who are presenting a valid grievance to the BCTC.
‘“We ask the BCTC to respect the occupants. These
young people personify the future of our nations. Every effort
must be made to listen to them and to understand what they
have to say. We ask you to do so. Freedom of communication
TNG PRESS RELEASE (Continued on Page 11)
10
SUMMER 1996
UBCIC NEWS
~ April 17,
SETON LAKE INDIAN BAND
Apnil 17, 1997
Kalh wa7acw (Hello)
We welcome you to our territory!
We are stopping this train today to share an important message
with you. The land you are travelling through is the terntory of
the St’at’imc People.
Fifteen years ago April 17, 1982, Queen Elizabeth II signed into
law the Constitution Act 1982 Section 35 of the Constitution;
recognize and affirms the Aboriginal and Treaty Rights of
Aboriginal peoples.
Despite this recognition and affirmation in the constitution, the
social and economic conditions of our people have not improved
over the past 15 years. Also, our people are excluded from the
amending formula in the constitution and therefore are denied
the opportunity to identify and define any further changes to
Section 35 to protect our collective Aboriginal and Treaty
Rights.
As you travel through our valley and further along in our
territory you will notice that B.C. Hydro has played a large role
in changing the face of the land. You must realize that we
derive no benefit from this corporate giant.
Our community has received no compensation of any type for
the cutblocks that you will see on the opposite shore of Seton
Lake. For this reason, we feel the Federal government must
reconsider their decision to not act upon the recommendations
laid out in the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples.
The rail road tracks this ‘‘Budd Car’’ is travelling over is our
land. It was taken without permission and knowledge. As you
see the tracks interfere with our use of the shore line of the
lakes within our territory.
We thank you for listening to us today, enjoy the rest of your
journey.
Hu7malh (farewell)
Chief Garry John
On behalf of Seton Lake Band
1997
Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs
PRESS STATEMENT
Stl’atl’imx Territory, April 18, 1997
Chief Saul Terry, President of the Union of B.C. Indian
Chiefs, made these comments in support of the Native Youth
who are occupying the Treaty Commission Office to demand
changes to the process:
“The Union of B.C. Indian is proud of the Native Youth
Movement (“"NYM”’’) in their principled stand to refuse to
accept any treaties coming out of the B.C. Treaty Commission
Process. The Youth are taking action to protect the future of
their Peoples, and are demanding answers to questions which
profoundly affect their political, social and economic future in
their respective homelands.’’
‘“The NYM is tired of the depressing situations
Indigenous Peoples find ourselves in, they are taking action to
ensure that any political solutions allow us to fulfill our
responsibilities and obligations as Indigenous Peoples to care
for and protect our land and nights for future generations.
“*The youth are seeking the truth. The Union of B.C.
Indian Chiefs urges the Treaty Commission Office to listen to
the NYM and recognize their right to lead us. It is, afterall,
their future which we are fighting for.”’ :
TNG PRESS RELEASE (Continued from page 10)
must be assured to them. Efforts to prevent the education of the
public on these vitally important issues will only lead to more
confrontation and trouble if any of the protesters should be
hurt.”’
Contact, Chief Saul Terry, 250-256-4125.
““If the occupants call for help, the Tsilhqot’in National
Government will respond by urging Tshilqot’in Nation
members to attend in strength, Let it be clearly understood that
this action has been caused not by our young protesters, but by
governments that continue to refuse to face the reality of
resurgent indigenous nations who ask those governments to
obey their own laws and those of the international community
of sovereign states,’’ he said.
-30-
Contact: Ray Hance,
TNG Deputy National Chief
(250) 392-3918
SUMMER 1996
11
UBCIC NEWS
A Message from Indian
and Northern Affairs Canada
Expiry Dates Established for Certificates of
Indian Status
The purpose of issuing Certificates of Indian Status is to
verify that the cardholder is a registered Indian. Certificates of
Indian Status are only useful if the photographs and physical
descriptions are current. It has come to our attention that some
registered Indians have been denied services because some
service providers have questioned whether their status cards are
still valid.
To remedy this situation, it has been decided that status
cards issued to individual under the age of eighteen will have an
expiry date of two years and status cards issued to individuals
over the age of eighteen will have an expiry date of five years.
This policy is effective immediately.
It should be noted that the five year expiry date does not
mean that the cardholder ceases to be a registered Indian at the
end of the five year period. It only means that if the cardholder
intends to use the status card to obtain certain services and
benefits, it must be renewed every five years.
It should also be noted that all previous versions of the
status card will continue to be valid until January 1, 2000.
Therefore, it is very important that your renew your current
status card on or before January 1, 2000.
Should you have any questions or concerns, please
contact your Band or the Indian Registry and Bands Lists
Office, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, B.C. Region, at
(604) 666-2059
OVIDE MECREDI (Continued from page 4)
Thirdly, we will focus on people like Mr. Dion, the
minster of reconciliation, the minister of reconciliation who
forgets that the aboriginal people exist and his only priority is
what’s happening in the province of Quebec. So we will be
focusing on him as well in the next few weeks.
Finally, Senator Fairbairn, who has, J understand, a very
powerful influence on the Prime Minister, one of his key
advisors in his inner circle of friends. And on that score, I
might say that the students from the University of Calgary have
occupied his office yesterday and the Senator has agreed to meet
with them today. Depending on the outcome of these
discussions with the Senator, the students are prepared to carry
on with their protests involving her.
We will be inviting our communities across the country
to try to do things creatively with Canadians in general where
we don't create any annoyances with anybody but we try to
build public support for our issues. So what we’re asking for
now is not so much slowing down traffic, which we did in 18
locations yesterday, but what we’re asking for is for people to do
some cultural events, some educational sessions, and to involve
not just the politicians in their area, like the municipal
Northern Ontario M.P. and Minister of Indian
Affairs and Northern Development Ronald A.
Irwin Announces Retirement From Federal
Politics
Sault Ste. Marnie (Apmil 4, 1997) - Minister of Indian
Affairs and Northern Development and Member of Parliament
for Sault Ste. Marie Ronald A. Irwin today announced that he
will not be seeking re-election in the next federal election.
“*This is a personal choice that I have made and I am
looking forward to being able to enjoy more time with my
family and friends. It has been an honour for me to serve the
government of Prime Minster Jean Chretien and the residents of
Sault Ste. Marie,’’ said Ron Irwin.
Mr. Irwin continued, ‘‘I wish to thank my wife Margaret
and our children for their wonderful support and confidence,
which over the years has made this challenging experience so
fulfilling. ] would also like to thank the people of Sault Ste.
Marie whom I have had the pleasure of representing as both
their Mayor and Member of Parliament.’’
Ron Irwin was first elected to the House of Commons in
1980, where he served one term. He was re-elected in the
general election of October 1993. Prime Minister Jean Chretien
appointed Ron Irwin to the federal cabinet November 4, 1993 as
the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development.
“IT would like to thank the Prime Minister for his
friendship and guidance. I would also like to thank my
colleagues in the House of Commons who have encouraged me
and supported the work I have done. To the Elders, Chiefs,
Aboriginals, Metis, and Inuit peoples who have befriended me
and taught me, meegwetch.”’
For information contact:
Cate McCready, Minister’s Office (819) 997-0002
politicians, but the support groups and the human rights
organizations, the church organizations, and to try to build
support for all our people in that manner.
Apparently I forgot one very important individual who is
going to be the focus of our attention as well, and that is the
Honourable Allan Rock, the Minister of Justice. Because in
effect, what we’re asking for from the Canadians is justice. He
himself is guilty in terms of diminishing our treaty and
aboriginal nghts when he introduced the gun control legislation
without due regard to the treaty nghts of our people, and even
though we spoke to him on numerous occasions to discourage
him from passing the law in the manner that he did, he refused
to listen to our people. So he will also be the focus of our
attention in the next coming weeks.
As a Strategy, when the election is called, whenever that
is, and when these people go out to seek the support of our
people, we will dog them, we will follow them and we will do
whatever we can to draw attention to the plight of our people
and also try to get the support of the general public in terms of
ensuring that they vote for the candidates that are sensitive to
the needs and the issues of aboriginal people and that they hold
the current government accountable for its inactions.
12
MAY 1997
Institute of Indigenous Government
Extension Programs
EXTENSION PROGRAMS
The Institute of Indigenous Government is committed
to expanding extension and off-campus programming to
enhance First Nation students access to our unique education
program in British Columbia, Canada and around the world.
Our goal is to deliver up to 80% of our courses ‘‘off campus’’ in
regional centres and Indigenous communities through the
extension program and by innovative distance learning
strategies.
Rather than sending students to a post-secondary
institution, which is usually located in urban settings, our
instructors can be sent to communities to deliver credited and
non-credited courses offered through our extension programs.
This arrangement allows students to remain in the home
community, close to family, friends and employment.
The HG is also committed to provide community-
based quality programs to all students wherever their home
communities may be located. There are presently two
extension sites in operation to date. The first extension sites
are located in Saanich and Lillooet, BC.
We are anticipating additional sites at Duncan, the
William Head Correctional Centre, Lytton, Mount Currie BC
and in the Yukon Ternitory. Anticipated start up is aimed
for the Fall semester of 1997.
SAANICH EXTENSION PROGRAM
This extension site was established in the Spring of
1996. This arrangement enables First Nations students from
the Saanich Nation, and the surrounding areas, to access
instruction, student development workshops, and community
support while pursuing their post-secondary studies.
Students at the Saanich site are enrolled part-time and
full-time in either the Certificate in Indigenous Government
Studies (30 credits) or the Associate of Arts Degree in
Indigenous Government Studies (60 credits). The foundation
courses are being offered on an on-going basis to allow for new
applicants.
For more information on the Saanich Extension program,
contact: Paul Sam, IG Saanich Extension Co-ordinator
Phone:(250) 652-5784 Fax:(250) 544-0538
LILLOOET EXTENSION PROGRAM
The students at the Lillooet Extension Program are
working full-time in the community while attending six hours
of instruction one day per week. For example, IGST 101 will
alternate with IGAD 101 every other Monday. This
arrangement allows the students to remain working in their
community and stay close to family and friends.
As student enrolment increases the foundation courses
and the four principal areas of specialization will be offered to
UBCIC NEWS
meet the demand. Evening and/or day classes can be arranged.
For more information on this exciting educational
opportunity in the Lillooet area, contact:
Marilyn Napolean,
IG Lillooet Extension Co-ordinator,
Lillooet Tribal Council
Phone: (250) 256-7523
Fax:(250) 256-7119
ELDERS & RESOURCE PEOPLE
Elders from the community are providing cultural,
social and spiritual guidance for the students. Their input into
Indigenous education assures that Indigenous control is being
reflected in the implementation of instruction, course
development, workshops, and student support. Elders also,
actively participate with the delivery of symposiums, workshops
and cultural events which fully reflect indigenous
philosophy, values and experience.
Community members are also utilised to enhance
and aid in the instruction of our courses, symposiums and
workshops, To sit in on any of the Extension courses, please
contact the co-ordinators for class time and schedules.
For information on Extension Programs in your area,
contact Jennie Blankinship, Director of Extension Programs at
(604) 602-9555 or Fax (604) 602-3432.
21st Ammual Provincial
Elders Conference ‘OF
Okan agan Nation Elders
August 12, 13 & 14, 1997
Penticton Indian Band
Cultural & Health Workshops
Entertainment / Special Events
Special Guest: Jom Jackson
For more information contact the Penticton Indian Band
(250) 493-0048
MAY 1997
13
UBCIC NEWS
The Union Mailbox
April 2, 1997
To whom it may concern:
HSA is a union of workers in both the health and
community sectors in the province of British Columbia.
In 1994, our members established two $500.00
scholarships to assist aboriginal students in the province of B.C.
who are pursuing education in a HSA field that would lead to a
recognized certification, degree or diploma. Thank you for your
attention to this and your assistance in “‘getting the message
out’’.
For more information about our scholarship and or to
obtain a scholarship application form please Contact Carmen-
Anne Menegozza at the Health Sciences Association of B.C. @
(604) 439-0994,
Sincerely,
Carmen - Anne Menegozzo
Senior Labour Relations Officer - Education & OH&S
HEALTH SCIENCES ASSOCIATION OF B.C.
April 22, 1997
Dear Sirs:
We would like to thank-you for your past help in
advertising our Pow-Wow. Our Pow-Wows have been a success
in the past, helping to show seven to ten thousand peoples of all
cultures the First Nations traditions. Due to our Pow-Wow
being postponed last year, we want to ensure this year’s a
success by advertising to the fullest.
We depend entirely on donations and a small grant from
the City of Vancouver, to assist with the expenses. Volunteers
provide the services to stage the event, which includes a free
community feast on Saturday, along with a Mother’s Day
Breakfast at Cedar Cottage on Sunday Morning. We will try to
feed as many people as possible.
Any donations are greatly appreciated. Charitable tax
receipts are available upon request.
For further information you can reach me at 434-4246.
All my relations
Karen E. Soldan
Co-Chairman
Cedar Cottage, Trout Lake
Traditional Pow-Wow Committee
UNITED NATIVE NATIONS
Congratulations to the Board of Directors of Local #133
President - Margaret Prevost, Nimpkish
Vice President - Fred Arrance, Cree
Treasurer - Glen Campbell, Musqueam
Secretary - James Shorty, Yukon Territory
BOARD MEMBERS:
Marlene Trick, Tsimshian
Florence Hackett, Coaishes / Homalko
Norman Mark, Sechelt
Ron Chevnier, Algonquin
Nigel Morin, Metis
Hector Hill, Gitksan
THE HASTINGS RESERVATION HAS ITS OWN VOICE!!
Call Blue Jeanne for more information at (604) 688-1821
HEALING OUR SPIRIT
B.C. First Nations AIDS Society
On June 7th, 1997 Barb McKinnon and I will be joining
The Great Walk from Gold River to Tahsis - a total of 63.5
kilometers.
Piease open your hearts and wallets and make a pledge to
support our efforts. All donations will be given to Healing Our
Spirit, B.C. First Nations AIDS Society HIV+ Fund.
Contact: Catherine Blackstock, Executive Director
(604) 983-8774
March 19, 1997
Dear Collegue:
Immunization can keep children safe from many serious
illnesses, such as measles, mumps, rubella and polio. But children
need to complete their full schedule of shots to be protected, On time,
every time.
That's why the Canadian Public Health Association, in
partnership with the Canadian Medical Association, the Canadian
Paediatric Society and Health Canada, has launched the National
Immunization Awareness Program.
Children's entertainers Sharon, Lois & Bram have volunteered
their time to be featured in print public service announcements, as well
as on posters and radio spots, for this major, national campaign.
We ask your support for this campain by running the enclosed
publice service announcement in your publication. Four-colour
separations to run the announcement in colour are available upon
request.
Thank you for helping to send this important health message to
many Candians, particularly the parents of young children.
Sincerly,
Robert Burr
Director, Public Affairs and Communications
(613) 725-3769
14
MAY 1997
UBCIC NEWS
MAP OF THE SOVEREIGN INDIGENOUS NATIONS
TERRITORIAL BOUNDARIES: JUNE, 1993
The Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs’ map of the Sovereign Indigenous Nations Territorial Boundaries is the only contemporary
map that accurately shows the traditional tribal terntories of the 23 Indian Nations in British Columbia. The six colour map measures
28" x 36".
The tribal territories are the homelands of distinct Nations, within which their respective peoples share a common language,
culture and traditional forms of political and social organization. These homelands have been occupied by the Indian Nations since
time immemonial. Up to the present, the Indian Nations in British Columbia have never surrendered their ownership of their homelands
(aboriginal title), nor have they surrendered their original sovereignty as nations to govern their homelands (inherent jurisdiction).
Information on the territorial boundaries was compiled by the Union’s research portfolio and President’s office between July,
1990 and April, 1993 from archival research and information provided by elders, chiefs, and tribal councils. Chief Saul Terry, President
of the Union and a graduate of the Vancouver College of Art (now the Emily Carr College of Art and Design), prepared the working
drafts for the map.
Design and cartography for the June, 1993 map was done by David Sami, chief cartographer of Multi Mapping Ltd. in
Vancouver, B.C., using a 1:2,000,000 scale base-map from the Surveys and Environment Branch of the British Columbia Ministry
of Environment, Lands and Parks. All territorial boundaries shown on the map are subject to further revision, as additional information
becomes available. Contact the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs at (604) 684-0231 for ordering information.
28" x 36" / Scale: 1:2 000 000 / Six Colours
rot Pe)
MAY 1997 15
UBCIC NEWS
NAME:
UNION OF B.C. INDIAN CHIEFS
SUBSCRIPTION FORM
FOR OFFICE USE ONLY
. DATE RECEIVED:
ADDRESS: CHEQ/MLO.#
EXPIRY DATE:
PROVINCE/STATE/COUNTRY: PosTAL/Zip Cope:
1 Year Su BSCRIPTION RATES
NewsLETIER Individual: $35.00
NewsCLIPPING Member Bands: $75.00 Individual: $100.00
TOTAL AMOUNT ENCLOSED $
Please make cheque or money order payable to: UNION OF B.C. INDIAN CHIEFS, 5TH FLOOR - 342 WATER STREET,
VANCOUVER, B.C., V6B JAI
CONSIGNMEN:
CHIEFS MASK BOOKS
Owned and operated by the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs - Sth Floor 342 Water Street in Gastown (604) 684-0231
NOW SERVING THE INSTITUTE OF INDIGENOUS GOVERNMENT
BOOKS ARTS & CRAFTS
- FIRST NATIONS - JEWELLRY
- ABORIGINAL ISSUES - POTTERY
- INTERNATIONAL INDIGENOUS - PRINTS
_ LAND CLAIMS _ T-SHIRTS
- LEATHERWORK
-ART
- MASKS
- CHILDREN'S BOOKS
- BEADWORK
- POETRY
- POW WOW MUSIC
CALL, WRITE OR ~ AND MUCH MORE!
DROP IN TODAY!
16
MAY 1997
Part of Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs Newsletter (May 1997)