Seek and Ye Shall Find

Seek and Ye Shall Find

It was 1995. Flight from Yellowknife, NT to Johannesburg, SA was booked; bags packed.

Article in WALL STREET JOURNAL

Prior to that though, a story about one of my sculptures, “The North Pole Man,” was published in the WALL STREET JOURNAL, no less. The story caught the attention of a Catherine Thicke, Art Director from the UK and one organizing “One World Art, The Right to Hope.” An exhibit showcasing a number of Indigenous artists from around the world which was to celebrate the 50^thanniversary of the creation of the United Nations. Apparently, based on that article published in the Wall Street Journal, I was “the Man” from Canada. Invitation was accepted…why not?

Official Book published

I did have a piece of Carrera marble laying around in my studio and was wondering what to make out of it. The Invitation was the Inspiration. Given the theme of the exhibition, I thought of melding the affinity the Inuit have with the land and sea. Therein, lies what you see in the sculpture created…giving life to our land-based feature of an Inukshuk combined with Sedna, the Sea-Goddess. The braiding of the hair is significant as it symbolizes her contentment with the Inuit and sea creatures. Sculpture was completed, photographed, and shipped a month prior to my flight.

I then quickly applied for a Canada Council for the Arts travel grant and was successful.

After a day and a half and a few thousand airmiles, I ended up in Johannesburg in time for the opening of the exhibition. There, I met other Indigenous artists from around the world and met Catherine Thicke, the Art Director and organizer. However, I sensed something different about her. Other artists also concurred. She was extremely aloof and unfriendly, unusual for someone in charge. We all figured…oh well. 

Our assurance from Catherine was the exhibit was to tour the world and we would all be kept informed. I left the exhibit and flew home to Yellowknife…never to hear from Catherine ever. Throughout the years since, I let the loss of my art-piece slide with the sunset. Only a memory remained. Still hope too remained and two years ago, I felt the sunrise.

With the advent of social media, I registered with #Twitter and sent out a tweet with the image of my sculpture to all my followers and also tweeted to renowned athletes such as Tiger, Roger, Rafa, Serena, Caroline, LeBron, Artists too like Bob, Bryan, Mick, Bonnie, U2, and even then, PM, Stephen Harper…” I had tweeted, “Please share and let me know if and when you see my sculpture “somewhere” in the world. It has to exist somewhere.”

Lo and behold!!

How’s this for timing? On National Aboriginal Day, June 21^st, 2017, I received an email from someone in Sarajevo, Bosnia. “Hey, Angus. I came across your tweet and, I think, this (picture) is what you’re looking for?” If so, I was going to buy it from someone here in Sarajevo. I want to do the right thing and see if you still want it back?”

“Duh.”

After not seeing it all those years, you can imagine the feeling of elation within. Now, the challenge was how do I get there and pick it up? Money for sure.

Finally, as you have seen on Facebook, my adventurous story on getting there and back last week.

Since I was invited to speak on Inuit art and culture in Switzerland, I figured why not jump over to Bosnia and get my sculpture. The guy I was communicating with was only the messenger as he had said an older man had it in his house and could not speak English…and wanted $1000 just to give it to me. I tried to bargain but it was not working. There was no way but to comply…somewhat gladly though.

Along the way, as noted I had passport issues and the Canadian Embassy in Belgrade and Air Serbia staff had warned me of “shady” characters in Sarajevo...Be careful they warned. Still, I had a good gut feeling.

In the end, the old man met me in the hotel lobby as scheduled and was extremely happy with the money. We parted with smiles and a hand-shake only.

Thank you #SocialMedia, she made it home…finally. Now, peacefully this time, I watch another sunset.

Generating Genesis...

It is written…

"Then the LORD God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to tend and keep it."  Genesis 1:26 (King James Bible version)

 “Employment program helps Yellowknife’s homeless turn their lives around.”

So read the headline written and posted by a Gabriela Panza-Beltrandi on CBC News, January 01, 2019.

https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/north/employment-program-yellowknife-homeless-1.4960957

Consequently,

'"This job] gives me a sense of accomplishment at the end of the day," says Lee Abel, one of Yellowknife’s homeless men.

A number of years ago while a Board member on the Aboriginal Healing Foundation (AHF), I had advised the Board that the key to “healing” Residential School Survivors and Aboriginal people in general was to meet their need for a sense of significance. Apparently, that seemed too simple even to the then Chair of the AHF and non-Survivor, George Erasmus. My argument, in the end, was it’s all about how one “feels.”  It’s evident Lee Abel is “feeling it.”

"[This job] gives me a sense of accomplishment at the end of the day,"

It is evident too that since the time of Genesis, man has not changed. The challenge today though is for one to find their Garden of Eden to tend and keep it.

photo by Gabriela Panza-Beltrandi

Although homeless, seems Lee Abel has found his Garden. How does that make him feel?
“…he likes his job because it keeps him busy and "out of trouble."

Before working with Common Ground, Abel kept himself occupied drinking to pass time, he said.




Since June, Abel has been working with Common Ground — a local initiative that employs the city's homeless. In a little over half a year, he's started to turn his life around. With his paycheques he's been able to buy new clothes and a cellphone to keep in touch with his employer.

I know for certain, the AHF spent over $400 million dollars trying to heal Aboriginal people. I know for certain too, as one who engages with the ever-increasing Aboriginal inmates in one of Canada’s penitentiaries, seems that money was wasted.

Abel said he likes his job because it keeps him busy and "out of trouble." Before working with Common Ground, Abel kept himself occupied drinking to pass time, he said.
"This keeps me out of that rut."

For Lee Abel, all he had to do was find his Garden of Eden and feel like a somebody; …he just changed his attitude and it cost nothing.

Evidently, he wants to tend and keep it too. High five, Brother!!

Young Inuk stands up...by sitting down!

“Iqaluit student sits during national anthem to make statement about residential school curriculum.”

So read the headline published and posted on-line on the CBC News website, Oct 22, 2018. See link below.

https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/north/iqaluit-student-residential-school-anthem-1.4871256

As you know, languages including English evolve to the point when catch phrases become the norm, i.e. groovy, awesome, what’s up, cool, etc. Seems, lately though the norm catch phrase is, “Hey, what’s goin’ on”… used nonchalantly especially when one meets an acquaintance or a close-friend. I know I use it all the time.

In the context of this story though, seems young 12 year-old Inuk kid, Miles Brewster of Iqaluit, NU, is seriously asking his teacher, “Hey, what’s goin’ on?”

As most Canadians should now know, post awareness of the former PM Stephen Harper’s apology in 2008, the Aboriginal Healing Foundation (AHF), the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), and the current Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) process, Residential Schools left a lasting legacy previously unchecked but now mandated and “should be” main-stream where students are learning about the history of Residential Schools within the schools’ curricula.  I guess young Inuk Miles’ didn’t think so and spurred on action and, “sat down to make a statement” during the national anthem.  Apparently, his teacher was not sharing the purpose of Orange Shirt Day; a day to remember those who attended Residential School.

For those who did attend Residential School, like me, we never did have the confidence to stand up to our teachers and make the same statement, “hey, what’s goin’ on,”… instead just obeyed and stood at attention to God Save the Queen and O’ Canada. Back then, we weren’t making history but just ended up being part of history. And, as young Inuk Miles has said correctly, “They (we) had to go to Residential School.” Therein lies the truth…”we had to.” No questions asked.

Times have changed and young Inuk Miles just wants to, I guess, understand that part of his history when, what, why, and how were, “his mother and step-father’s (past) experiences in Residential Schools” and a time when they “had to.” No questions asked.

But, young Inuk Miles, in his own way, stood up for his mother and step-father and all of us Survivors as “he sat down to make a statement.”

And, like back in Residential School when one was seen as disobedient, young Inuk Miles “was sent to the office…as one trying to be a troublemaker.” No questions asked.

Throughout my years, I’ve learned to be uncommon and it’s ok to go against the grain to be successful and, I think, the sooner one learns that, the better. It’s great to see young Inuk Miles be so uncommon already.

Apparently though, his Principal wants no part of his question, “Hey, what’s goin’ on?” Keep standing up for us Inuk Miles…just do it sitting down.

Murray Sinclair?...Dim-Witt?

Murray Sinclair?...Dim-Witt?

"They (non-Aboriginal) deny, perhaps, because they're slow-minded and dim-witted,.." Murray Sinclair


So said Murray Sinclair, former Commissioner of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) on a recent CBC broadcast of THE CURRENT with Anna Maria Tremonti.

http://www.cbc.ca/beta/news/politics/murray-sinclair-lynn-beyak-residential-schools-1.4045465

Yes, there were some bad things that occurred at the former residential schools such as sexual, physical, and mental abuse. All well documented especially in the final report of the TRC once chaired by Murray Sinclair and who was subsequently “rewarded” with a Senate appointment.

As a Survivor of 13 years of residential school at Grollier Hall, a former residence operated by the Catholic Church and located in Inuvik, NT., I know very well the bad but for the sake of the whole truth, one must never deny the good also.

As we know, Sinclair is not a Survivor of residential school and may know of the experience but will never understand the full experience. Too bad. Anyway, he chose to, along with his Commissioners, to not tell the whole “truth” in his final TRC report. Instead, they focused on the negative for sure. Therefore, I have to side with Senator Lynn Beyak latest comments regarding the “good.”

“Obviously, the negative issues must be addressed, but it is unfortunate that they are sometimes magnified and considered more newsworthy than the abundance of good,” Beyak said.” Lynn Beyak, THESTAR.COM

Regarding the “good,” the Catholic Church at Grollier Hall supported a program of active sports including hockey, soccer, basketball, badminton, floor hockey, soft ball, snooker, and chess just to name a few. Our teams in those respective sports were very competitive against other teams and, in fact, captured a number of regional championships. However, the greatest “good” in sports the Catholic Church did support then was the Territorial Experimental Ski Training (TEST) program.

The late Father Mouchet

The TEST program was inspired by the late Catholic priest, Father Jean Marie Mouchet; thank God. Rest in peace my friend. Father Mouchet saw the “good” and potential of us natives to excel in the sport of cross country ski racing given our outdoor and active lifestyle and being natural athletes.

As a result of that program and while still attending Residential School, a number of Survivors were named to the 1972 Sapporo Winter Olympics. In fact, six of the nine members of Canada’s Olympic team were Aboriginal; isn’t that “good?”

TEST skiers of 1970; back then National Champs
and Canadian members of the 1972 Winter Olympics and
pictured with the late PM Pierre Trudeau.

I, myself, chose to participate in the TEST program and won a number of national junior championships and was the 1975 Canada Winter Games Champion in cross country skiing. Now, the legacy of “good” lives on as my boy, Jesse Cockney, was named to the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics and now competes on the World Cup circuit.

I see and read about the uproar of Lynn Beyak’s comments from a number of Aboriginal Leaders but it is quite understandable as they choose to ignore the whole truth.

I know the truth, I was there. Senator Sinclair could learn a lot by acknowledging the truth and like Senator Lynn Beyak should not be in denial.

Judging by the applause Sinclair receives, seems he's regarded as the god of "truth" when it comes to the experience of all residential school Survivors'

While he continues to deny the truth and not convey the good, he will not get my applause...who's the dim-witt here?
                                                                                                                                  
A young Angus Cockney, former National Champion and son, Jesse Cockney, 2014 Olympian. Thank you Father Mouchet; the Legacy of "good" continues.

Harper sorry, but...

 “Labrador residential-schools survivors to press for federal compensation”

So read the headline published on-line in the GLOBE AND MAIL, dated Nov. 18, 2014.

As you know, Prime Minister Harper made national news in June of 2008 on live TV when he had apologized to Canada’s Aboriginal people regarding the establishment of and subsequent physical, sexual, and mental abuses experienced in all the former residential schools across the country. I should know, I was one of those students.

The compensation for those abuses inflicted on Survivors continue; enter the latest… the Labrador Inuit.

Much like the medical and dental care offered to Aboriginal people, Harper’s apology was and is apparently limited. The article reads, in part:

“Lawyers for the federal government deny it was responsible for five schools that opened before the province joined Confederation in 1949.”

I have some news and what could be presented as evidence for those hard-nosed lawyers.

As some may know, I was the appointed Inuit Board Member on the now-defunct Aboriginal Healing Foundation (AHF) from 1999 to 2004. The AHF’s mandate was to distribute up to $400 million dollars to “eligible recipients” who wanted to address the healing needs of the legacy of physical and sexual abuses in the residential schools. Records will show Harper’s lawyers that two of the “eligible recipients” were from Labrador: the Nunatsiavut Government and the Labrador Legal Services.

Case closed? I might say.  After all, the AHF was routinely audited by Harper’s lawyers to ensure the AHF adhered to the Funding Agreement. Due diligence on their part would have challenged us, Board Members, to not approve the above noted projects. Still, the Labrador Inuit residential schools were regarded as “eligible recipients.” Case closed?

The two thumbs up given by Inuit Survivor, Sarah Aggek (pictured) speaks a thousand words.

For the government though, it will likely symbolize thousands more dollars…I’m sorry, Harper.

Harper needs double-barrelled Ministers?

“Resources Minister Rickford faces aboriginal backlash over Enbridge project.”

So read the headline published in the GLOBE AND MAIL, dated March 21, 2014 and written by a Shawn McCarthy.

Perhaps, the headline should have read, “…continued backlash…?”

As you know, “Following a cabinet shuffle prompted by Jim Flaherty’s resignation, former minister of state for science Greg Rickford has taken over the natural resources post from Joe Oliver, who replaces Mr. Flaherty as finance minister.

As you know too, Prime Minister Stephen Harper once said the proposed Enbridge Gateway project is a “ no-brainer.” Therefore, for the newly appointed (Natural) Resources Minister, the “looming” decision to go-ahead with the National Energy Board’s recommendation to approve the project should also be a no-brainer. I don’t think he will want to contradict or disappoint his leader.

However, one must question the timing of the change to replace Joe Oliver as that move may also indicate the lack of value the Prime Minister has in “Aboriginal” relations regarding resource development especially the proposed Enbridge project?

Replacing Oliver with Rickford is untimely and has certainly added to the aboriginal backlash already well known especially within the BC communities. Now, Rickford will likely need to connect with former Environment and Indian Affairs Minister, Jim Prentice, contracted by Enbridge “ to negotiate with aboriginal communities on its behalf” and try to establish trust and meaningful relationships with potentially affected First Nations.

These two new faces though will likely do little to quell the “continued” backlash that will certainly persist even when the new Minister Rickford approves the go-ahead come July 2014. After all, “…said Art Sterrit, executive director of Coastal First Nations, which represents nine nations on the B.C. coast. “There’s no way anybody in B.C. is going to support that project any time soon.”

Enbridge's Apprentice, Jim Prentice

“Enbridge turns to Jim Prentice for pipeline help.

Can Jim Prentice save Northern Gateway?

Company hopes former Indian Affairs minister can help win support of First Nations.”

So read the headlines published in the GLOBE AND MAIL, dated March 06, 2014 and written by a Mark Hume.

Seems, Enbridge is looking for an approval within an approval, after all, it is no secret the proposed Northern Gateway pipeline has been given a conditional nod, “approval with conditions” by the National Energy Board.  Prime Minister (PM), Stephen Harper, and his federal cabinet will no doubt give the final nod this July. After all too, the PM once said, “it’s a no-brainer.”

Still, 130 aboriginal bands have signed a declaration against the project. Enter Jim Prentice, former cabinet minister whose files did include the environment and Indian affairs.

“I know there is a lot of heavy lifting to be done and it starts with listening.”

Apparently, paying attention to those 130 aboriginal bands opposed to the project is a bit of ire to Enbridge’s ear. I guess one could surmise too, Enbridge’s Aboriginal Relations unit has fallen short of establishing the trust imperative to engaging with First Nations. Listening will not be enough.

“Al Monaco, chief executive officer of Enbridge, said in a statement that he hopes Mr. Prentice can help the company build trust with First Nations.”

Establishing trust within any working relationship should be first and foremost and is always regarded as a best practice.

“We (Enbridge) believe Jim Prentice is uniquely suited to help us fulfill that promise.”

I guess Jim Prentice will have to do more than just listen.

Prolong...Furlong?

“Furlong says probe cleared him, but RCMP says case open.”

So read the headline published in the GLOBE AND MAIL dated, Oct. 29^th, 2013 and written by Sunny Dhillon and Tu Thanh Ha.

 It’s well known today, at least amongst Aboriginal communities, the legacy of physical and sexual abuse in the former native residential schools that were all funded by the federal government and operated by various churches. Along with that legacy did come some accountability with a number of former supervisors charged, convicted, and subsequently sentenced behind bars.

Enter former supervisor, Paul Leroux, who had worked at Grollier Hall, a former Catholic-run residence in Inuvik, NT.  After a complaint from one former student, a speedy and extensive RCMP investigation ensued.

The RCMP “probe” into that case included interviews with over 70 former Grollier Hall students (Survivors) under Leroux’s care at that time. That probe clearly showed the will of the RCMP to gain evidence against him to subsequently charge him with sexual abuse.

Now, should the same extensive probe into John Furlong, former CEO of the 2010 Olympics be expected? One would think the RCMP would have the same will…instead, after one complaint.

“The initial probe, which ended in the spring, looked at allegations Mr. Furlong sexually molested Beverly Abraham when he was a physical education teacher at Immaculata Roman Catholic Elementary School in Burns Lake, B.C. four decades ago.”

The result?

Apparently, “Mr. Furlong said the officer in charge of the investigation…concluded there was no wrongdoing.”

 “…he has been told an RCMP investigation into allegations he sexually abused a student when he was a teacher decades ago has proven his innocence.”

Apparently too, seems the RCMP is unwilling to extend their probe past one allegation even when Ms. Abraham asked the local constable to interview additional witnesses.

As one who did take part as a witness into the extensive RCMP probe against Paul Leroux, a pragmatic attitude would think the RCMP take the same approach towards Furlong.

Still…

John Furlong is a high-profile character who worked closely with the RCMP to ensure security measures were in place during the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. Could that relationship be the impetus behind the restrictive probe into the allegations of physical and sexual abuse?

Perhaps, the BC RCMP should seriously hold the NWT RCMP as a model into how to conduct a probe into allegations of physical and sexual abuse by John Furlong.

One has hope…after all, “RCMP says case open.”

Pipeline Revival, People Survival

“Mackenzie Valley pipeline facing possible revival.

Revival of 500 million dollar fund signals renewed interest in project – and possible new route.”

So read the headline published on the CBC website dated, Oct. 25^th, 2013.

Even after more than 40 years of deliberation and finally a 2011 permit to build the Mackenzie Gas Pipeline (MGP) and subsequent stall due to economics…yet, another dust-off for the MGP?

A prominent NWT Aboriginal member once said, “I’m kinda glad the MGP has not gone ahead, 20 per cent of our people could be lost.”

How?

The social impact of money. The people know it and certainly the federal government does too. After all, they have recently revived the 500 million dollar social impact fund in case the MGP is to be.

"We are looking at all options here and there is more than one option for this pipeline," says Pius Rolheiser, Imperial Oil’s spokesman. Imperial needs to act quickly on an option as they have only until the end of 2013 to give the nod to the National Energy Board…to be or not to be.

As you may know, N.E. BC has been wrought with natural gas activity lately with a number of pipelines proposed southwest to Kitimat on BC’s west coast with eventual shipment to the Far East. So…why not connect the MGP while they’re at it?

Imperial has made a considerable amount of investment to the MGP throughout the years but what does it value the most?

"We made a significant investment in terms of our relationship with the people of the North as represented by the Aboriginal pipeline group and that is a terribly important asset to us."

The revival of the MGP will be great for the NWT economy but how ‘bout the survival of its people?

Hopefully, 500 million dollars will be a good investment too.

Brazin' Brazeau

“New scandal hits Senate.

Brazeau ejected from caucus after arrest; Harper faces more headaches over upper house as reform stalls.”

So read the headline published in the GLOBE AND MAIL, dated Feb. 8^th, 2013 and written Bill Curry, Daniel Leblanc, and Steven Chase.

As you may know, with the current Senate format, it is the Prime Minister who appoints members for their respective role on Canadian governance and, for all appointed, on a path to easy money and ultimate retirement. One would assume; appointments are based on recommendations and rhetoric. In the above noted case, one could surmise too, Harper needed an “Aboriginal” in his caucus to be seen as a Prime Minister sensitive to aboriginal issues but also a Prime Minister who likely needed an Aboriginal who advocated PC views…enter Patrick Brazeau.

For Harper, Brazeau is young and is a non-status Indian and therefore does not fall under the Indian Act and furthermore, in the past, Brazeau has been negative and critical on the on-going challenge of the relationship of status Indians under the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) and the federal government. So, how has Brazeau performed and conformed so far?

“ I am deeply appalled…and feel let down,” said the Prime Minister today (February 9th, 2013).

Subsequent to a 911 call, the RCMP responded and went to Senator Brazeau’s house in Gatineau, QC and did apprehend him overnight pending investigation with possibly pressing criminal charges. Today, the RCMP has charged him with assault and sexual assault.

So, what is the Prime Minister to do now?

“I think it is known that in light of the serious events that have been reported today (February 9, 2013), I have removed Senator Brazeau from the Conservative caucus.”

Senator Brazeau now sits as an Independent and is on leave with full pay. Unless Harper reforms the Senate as he had promised as an election platform, Senator Brazeau could retire comfortably, thanks to future earnings of $7 million dollars to the end of his term…not bad for a likely criminal facing serious allegations.

In the big picture, it is the Prime Minister who should be held accountable but with a majority government…who cares?

"...long to reign over us..."

Remember singing this in elementary school?

"God save our gracious Queen.
Long live our noble Queen.
Send her victorious,
long to reign over us..."

For those who think she is only a "symbolic/figurative" person, think again."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o8k-T6dyZnM&list=FLBY2F5v-eJ5mV6Fh9gjF6zQ&index=11

Be sure your sins will find you out.

Furlong denies allegations of abuse.

Former CEO of Vancouver’s Olympic committee says he has asked police to probe claims.

So read the headline published in the GLOBE AND MAIL dated, September 28, 2012.

“But if ye will not do so, behold, ye have sinned against the Lord: and be sure your sin will find you out.” Numbers 32:23.

One must assume the Bible was never too far from John Furlong as a former missionary at a school at Burns Lake, BC from 1969 to the early 1970’s.  There and then, Furlong worked as a gym teacher where he once led First Nations students in physical activities.

In the beginning, like the earth, that period of time too was “without form and void” for Furlong never did mention it in his book entitled, “Patriot Hearts.”

I wonder why?

Others like “Lake Babine First Nation chief Wilf Adam said he planned to issue a formal statement on Friday (yesterday) in support of band members who say Mr. Furlong abused them.”

“The issue here was the book and its failure to mention Burns Lake,” Mr. Adam said. “He (Mr. Furlong) has to be truthful and honest about what happened.”

So, what did happen?

It’s no secret now the number of physical and sexual abuses that did occur to former Aboriginal students and now considered as Survivors of all the church-run residential schools across Canada. The government through Prime Minister Stephen Harper finally apologized in 2008 to all Aboriginal people and followed through with compensation packages. It was clear then with the numbers of abuse allegations and an RCMP investigation full of evidence that prompted Harper to do the right thing. In most of those Survivor cases, it took 30 – 40 years to break the silence.

Even for Furlong, time does not stand still. And thanks to the reporter, Laura Robinson, his time spent 40 years ago in a small town in BC is certainly not without form and void.

Memories of Furlong by his former First Nations students and an RCMP investigation will certainly fill in that time…a time he says was of insignificance.

It’s ironic the Bible verse noted above is found in the book of Numbers. While there are allegations against Furlong, the RCMP must not and should not deny the numbers and make the time of 1969 to the early 1970’s of significance to those affected First Nations members.

Elders forethought, Atleo's afterthought.

“We must be partners, not an afterthought.”

So read the headline published in the GLOBE AND MAIL, dated August 22, 2012 and written by Shawn Atleo.

I see Shawn Atleo, National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), is again trying to assert some leadership. After all, even with signed Treaties across the country, he is a leader of arguably the most uncertain of the three defined aboriginal groups and arguably too, the most contentious when it comes to the issue of resource development. After all too, we don’t hear much from Metis and Inuit groups regarding resource development.

I wonder why?

Atleo, to his credit, says, “The federal government must work with First Nations to move away from the Indian Act, to honour and give life to inherent rights, title, and treaties.”

Is the Indian Act to blame for the current state of affairs with First Nations and resource development or are First Nations ancestors to blame?

We, Inuvialuit, of the Western Arctic were a part of the northern group who were to sign and be a signatory to Treaty 11. Back in the day, our elders felt it not advantageous for us as a people and therefore, rejected the terms of the conditions of Treaty 11. Good for them.

Fast forward to Atleo’s comments today, “We must be full participants in new sustainable and responsible economic opportunity. This is a path forward to prosperity, now and into the future.”

Interesting?

One of our goals of the 1984 Inuvialuit Final Agreement of the Western Arctic is, “to enable Inuvialuit to be equal and meaningful participants in the northern and national economy and society…”

Thanks to our Elders patient foresight in rejecting signing Treaty 11, the government was a binding signatory to our comprehensive land claim agreement. Now, resource development companies and the government have no issue engaging Inuvialuit early and engaging Inuvialuit often in any proposed resource development. And, we don’t make the news on a daily basis as Inuvialuit are meaningful participants in the northern and national economy. And, never an afterthought.

Perhaps, Atleo should be looking back to his ancestors to address the path to prosperity, now and into the future.

Pipelines...a right-of-way that is not the right way?

As you know, the Enbridge Gateway and Kinder Morgan TransMountain pipeline proposals across British Columbia have been in the news for a while and will not go away for some time into the distant future.

Headlines include,       “Pipeline: Weighing the risks against the rewards,”

                                    “In case of accident,”

                                    “Living with the line,”

                                    “Beyond the protests, pipelines are a solid investment,”

                                    “Deadline imposed on Gateway review,”

                                    “Kinder Morgan’s $4.1 billion plan to push oil through southern B.C.,”

                                    “Pipeline feud in spotlight as oil-sands prospects dim,”

                                    “First Nations miffed with pipeline regulatory process,”

                                    …just to name a few.

Perhaps, with all the controversy, those companies need to think outside the box (or pipe)?

Enter the Mackenzie Gas Project (MGP), an already completed process with much Aboriginal support with the various land claims settled and a permit to build thanks to the National Energy Board (NEB).

Perhaps too, with all the controversy of the aforementioned pipeline proposals, those two companies especially Enbridge should think of “a northward course of empire.” As you may know too, the MGP is to one-day transport natural gas from the Mackenzie Delta in Canada’s western arctic to markets south to the oil sands of Alberta. Imperial Oil Limited is the lead proponent on the MGP which is to use a pipeline eventually built by TransCanada Pipelines (TPL).

Unfortunately, due to low gas prices, the MGP is on hold long-term with a right-of-way that might be the right way?

If Enbridge or even Kinder Morgan is looking for a proven less-controversial route to transport oil, why not pipe oil north down the Mackenzie river on to the Beaufort Sea, and gain the real gateway to the Orient? After all, the Aboriginal groups there are ready and willing along with the Government of the Northwest Territories looking to spark economic development. Furthermore, the natural gas of the Mackenzie Delta can then be used to fuel the project. Once oil hits the Arctic, it can be transported over to Prudhoe Bay in Alaska. There, oil can then be transported via the Alaska Pipeline System, a long-standing operational pipeline that transports oil down to Valdez. And then to?...where else, the Orient where China is waiting.

The Gateway and TransMountain pipelines are controversial with no guarantees from the British Columbia government and the First Nations have threatened to “go to the wall” to defend and protect their aboriginal rights to the point of stalling the projects with a long-lasting court process.

The MGP route is a round about way but the idea is something Enbridge and Kinder Morgan should consider even if it will cost time and more money. After all, it’s likely time for the companies to think outside the box as their respective right-of-way may not be the right way.

To Treaty or not to Treaty?

“Business warned to respect treaty rights.

Newly re-elected assembly chief says he wont’ rule out delaying projects like Northern Gateway pipeline if conversation lags.”

So read the headline published in the GLOBE AND MAIL dated July 20, 2012 and written by a Tamara Baluia.

Seems the re-elected Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Chief; Shawn Atleo is already flexing his muscles regarding treaty rights. But is he barking up the wrong tree? Especially, when he has been accused by a number of chiefs of being too cozy with the government during his first term.

Still, he has warned business and, “he didn’t rule out delaying key projects like the (Enbridge) Northern Gateway pipeline.”

With his focus on businesses and resource development and the need to respect treaty rights, perhaps he may be still too cozy with the government? After all, based on experience and the last I heard and according to the courts, it is the Crown that has the duty to consult and to respect aboriginal and Treaty rights, which are recognized and affirmed in the Constitution Act, Section 35.

So, where is the Crown?

The very target Atleo is after is also wondering. “Canadian business leaders, in a report by the Canadian Council of Chief Executives released ahead of the AFN’s assembly, called for politicians to bring aboriginal communities more fully on board in energy development. From a corporate perspective, being “on board” though is not about treaty rights.

Tell that to a Daniel Veniez, an entrepreneur who has worked for first nations in northern BC and a former Liberal Party candidate. He has said, “ in order to unlock the full economic potential, first nations and Ottawa will have to clear the underbrush first…the fundamental issue of treaty rights,” he said. “ I don’ think you’ll see any real movement until this is sorted out first.”

So, where is the Crown?

“Aboriginal Affairs Minister John Duncan said the government will work with communities to “create the conditions for Canada’s first nations to achieve the prosperity they see, benefiting not just them but all Canadians. Building on the progress we have made together will require us to have the courage to embrace change…and ask tough questions.”

As we all know and unlike Aboriginal rights, Treaty rights are spelled out clearly within all the respective treaties. Treaty rights are not such a tough question…tell that to Atleo. Perhaps,  he's still too cozy?

A Northward course of Empire?

“Inuit leader asserts stake in natural riches.

Newly elected Terry Audla promises to ensure northern communities share in wealth generated off extraction of Arctic resources.”

So read the headline published in the GLOBE AND MAIL dated June 09, 2012 and written by a Gloria Galloway.

Firstly, congratulations to Terry Audla who is now the new leader of the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK), the political organization that oversees all issues pertaining to Canada’s Inuit people. Secondly, like some First Nations leaders, he seems to get it when addressing the plight of his own people. In two words; economic development. After all, the natural riches of the Arctic were regarded very early in the 1900’s.

Enter the book, “A Northward course of Empire,” written by the early 20^th century Canadian Arctic explorer, Vilhjalmur Stephansson. The book describes the potential for economic development of Arctic regions. Now, over a century later, an Inuit leader finally gets it.

“There are capped wells in the high arctic and there are oil and gas reserves in the high arctic as well, “ Mr. Audla said this week in a telephone interview on the day after his victory.”

“And the Inuit will definitely be involved in the development of that when the decision is made to do so.”

So, what took so long?

“Mr. Audla said the roots of the ITK go back to a time when the Inuit watched the riches of their land being harvested without them. That cannot happen going forward, he said, especially now that the land claims have been settled.”

In the past, the Inuit were once rich in language and culture only to be disrupted by the establishment of Canada and then having to ironically “re-claim” the land that has always identified their existence. So, what about the future?

“…it is the resources that he believes hold the promise for the future of his people.”

“The Inuit own 50 million hectares of land, which is about the size of Spain, The Nunavut land claim agreement has set the stage for the Inuit to regain the control they once had. This time moving forward into the 21^st century, not with spears, igloos,  aglus, umiaks, kayaks or seal skin clothing but with a big difference…money through economic development.

“Mr. Audla said. If you have that much land and control, there’s no reason why you can’t have the economic development based on what you want to do and how you want to do it. If you can control that, it certainly would go towards improving the lives of the Inuit.”

Finally, the new leader of the ITK has realized a northward course of empire. 

Pipeline game...new rules?

New rules may hinder Enbridge pipeline: ex-exec.

So read the headline published in the NATIONAL POST dated April 27, 2012 and written by a Jeffrey Jones.

When it comes to problems, the government seems to “think,” it has the solutions.

Over a century ago, Duncan Campbell Scott, former Minister of Indian Affairs in the MacDonald government once uttered, “We have an Indian problem.”

The solution to that problem was?...Indian Residential schools.  That system and disrespect towards Aboriginal people finally led to an apology by Prime Minister Harper in 2008 with financial compensation to all former Survivors who had attended those schools.

Today, the solution to major oil and gas projects?...new rules.

“They’re trying to solve the Enbridge challenges with a regulatory change, and I don’t think that’s appropriate. If you want to fix things, then sit down and think about it,” says Roger Harris, former vice president of aboriginal and community partnerships for Enbridge Northern Gateway Pipelines in 2008 and 2009 and, now a respected consultant.

Currently, the National Energy Board (NEB) oversees major projects like the proposed Gateway pipeline with its regulatory process, a process that includes addressing environmental, social-economic, economic, engineering, stakeholder, and aboriginal issues. And, in due process with no real time-line. Seems, the Harper government is discontent and therefore, wants new rules.

“Among the revamps, the number of federal departments and agencies that participate in reviews will be chopped to three from more than 40, provinces will be able to conduct reviews if they meet federal standards, and review proceedings for major developments such as Northern Gateway will be limited to 24 months.”

And, get this. The new rules are even retroactive to include the proposed
Gateway pipeline and Harper’s government can push aside and take over the role of the NEB if and when they want the final say.

What does Mr. Harris think?

“…when a time limit is enforced, or even the Cabinet makes a decision to move ahead on a project, it creates the perfect landscape for legal action, and it’s going to have project proponents in courts forever.”

“Many First Nations say they fear construction and operation of the pipeline will threaten traditional ways of life and leave their territories and coastal waters at risk of oil spills. Some have said court actions are a certainty if it is approved.”

As mentioned on a previous blog post, perhaps this proposed Enbridge pipeline will lead the lawyers to the only bridge constructed….the bridge to retirement.  Perhaps, the government will have to consider another solution…even more rules?