Political – Niisaachewan Anishinaabe Nation

Grand Council Treaty #3 Rejects Métis Claim as Treaty Participant

Website Administrator — Sun, 07 May 2023 07:20:29 +0000

Agency 1 Reserve near Fort Frances, Ontario May 4, 2023: Grand Council Treaty #3 is calling on the Government of Canada to cease any and all steps towards implementing the recent Métis Self-Government Recognition and Implementation Agreement between Canada and the Métis Nation of Ontario, pointing to grave concerns about Métis claims to Treaty #3 and Canada’s failure to consult with the Anishinaabe Nation who entered into Treaty #3 with the Crown.

“Our Treaty, entered into with the Crown in the presence of the Creator, is sacred,” explained Ogichidaa Francis Kavanaugh. “We are extremely concerned that our Treaty partner has entered into an agreement with the Métis Nation of Ontario recognizing the ‘Northwestern Ontario Métis Community’, who erroneously claim a connection to and rights through our Treaty, as a section 35 rights-bearing collective.” (Section 35 refers to that section in the Constitution Act, 1982 which recognizes and affirms the “existing aboriginal and treaty rights of the aboriginal peoples of Canada”).

In2017, the Government of Canada entered into an agreement with the Métis Nation of Ontario regarding the “Northwestern Ontario Métis Community”, some of whom mistakenly claim to be descendants of a Métis collective that adhered to Treaty #3 in 1875 through what is referred to as the “Halfbreed Adhesion.” Through that 2017 Agreement, Canada agreed to negotiate with the MNO to settle outstanding claims of the Northwestern Ontario Métis Community, including claims relating to the Halfbreed Adhesion. Canada also agreed to consult other Indigenous groups whose Aboriginal or Treaty rights might be affected by negotiations relating to the Northwestern Ontario Métis.

The Métis Self-Government Recognition and Implementation Agreement builds on this 2017 Agreement by committing the parties to resolving outstanding Métis claims against Canada, including claims being addressed through the 2017 Agreement. It appears Canada has undertaken negotiations with the Métis Nation of Ontario but has not consulted other Indigenous groups, including specifically the Anishinaabe Nation that entered into Treaty #3, and Canada’s commitment to this Agreement being a “Nation-to-Nation” Treaty.

“The so-called ‘Halfbreed Adhesion’ is not a Métis addition to our Treaty,” explained Chief Brian Perrault of Couchiching First Nation. “It’s an adhesion through which our mixed-blood Anishinaabe ancestors were welcomed into Treaty as Anishinaabe. We had an inclusive vision of citizenship, not an exclusionary one. It was possible to have one French-Scottish parent and one Anishinaabe parent and still be Anishinaabe. You were still our kin. When our ancestors were negotiating Treaty #3, we made it clear that the ‘halfbreeds among us’ in the Rainy River adjacent Ojibway communities were our kin and part of our Nation, to be included in the Treaty. The reserve promised in the ‘Halfbreed Adhesion’ is now part of the amalgamated Couchiching reserve. The descendants of that adhesion are our members; they are Anishinaabe.”

Both Ogichidaa Kavanaugh and Chief Perrault state that they have never heard their Elders speak of a Métis community existing in the Rainy River/Fort Frances area in the 1870s, or of any Métis collective being part of Treaty #3. They also state that neither Canada nor the Métis Nation of Ontario have ever provided them with any research or information to support their claim that the Northwestern Ontario Métis Community is tied to a historic Métis community in the area or have any claims or rights through Treaty #3.

“I wrote to Minister Miller last October explaining the connection between Couchiching First Nation and the ‘Halfbreed Adhesion’ and asking for formal consultation if Canada was indeed negotiating with the Métis Nation of Ontario, especially as it relates to Treaty #3. I never got a response,” said Chief Perrault. “Canada entered into an agreement in 2017 saying it would consult and is intentionally disregarding that.”

“150 years ago, at the signing of Treaty #3, Chief Mawendopenais stated: ‘And now before you all, Indians and whites, let it never be said that this has been done in secret. It is done openly and in the light of day,’” explained Ogichidaa Kavanaugh.

“Now, as we prepare to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the signing of Treaty #3, our Treaty partner appears ready to run roughshod over that sacred agreement, and the mutual commitment to openness and transparency,” said Ogichidaa Kavanaugh. “The Government of Canada entered into this recent agreement without any discussion or engagement with the Anishinaabe Nation of Treaty #3 despite requests from Treaty #3 leadership. We are being kept completely in the dark as Canada reopens our Treaty. This conduct is dishonourable and completely unacceptable.”

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For more information, please contact: Daniel Morriseau, Political Advisor – (807) 464-2647 or by email daniel.morriseau@treaty3.ca

Niiwin Wendaanimok Twinning Contract Signed

Website Administrator — Sat, 20 Nov 2021 17:48:57 +0000

The Niiwin Wendaanimok Partnership met with the Ontario government to sign a contract for early works to produce the raw materials needed to build the road base for Phase 1 of the twinning of the TransCanada highway!

This milestone will position us to get shovels in the ground for this section of the highway as soon as the spring.

More Info

Ontario Government Press Release

Nomination Call for Role of Ka Niiganibowe’t/ Ka Niiganibowiik

Website Administrator — Sun, 17 Oct 2021 04:42:02 +0000

Ka Niigaanibowe’t/Ka Niigaanibowiik is the leader/protector of Abinoojii Inakonigewin, which is commonly known as the child care law in Treaty no. 3. Their role is to protect, safeguard and provide Anishinaabe interpretation of the Law, of its meaning and applications, while being cognizant of cultural differences amongst the communities. Their role is to ensure the optimum quality of all Abinoojii Inakonigewin service systems. The Ka Niigaanibowe’t/Ka Niigaanibowiik will be the representative of the Nation in any proceeding respecting a child in other jurisdictions and will be responsible to ensure the Ombikiasowin Protectorate establishes and maintains agreements with other jurisdictions for harmonizing the administration of laws. The Ka Niigaanibowe’t/Ka Niigaanibowiik will report to the Ogichidaa and the National Assembly.

Qualifications for the Office of the Ka Niigaanibowe’t/Ka Niigaanibowiik

Be an Anishinaabe and possess the ability to speak Anishinaabemowin fluently
Have knowledge of and be guided by the principles of Giizhaawatiziwin: Kindness and Giving
Lead a lifestyle appropriate and conducive to this role including the possession and understanding of Miinigoziwin and Gi gii’izhi zhaawendaagozimin
Understand and possess Traditional knowledge of Anishinaabe cultural and healing approaches
Understand and acceptance of Traditional family systems and structures and child-rearing practices
Excellent communication, advocacy, negotiation and social interaction skills
Comprehensive knowledge of Abinoojii Inakonigewin as well as knowledge and experience with all levels of Government, First Nations, Ontario and Manitoba Child Welfare systems including, but not limited to, customary codes, laws, regulations and directives
Understanding of Anishinaabe Sacred and Customary laws including Customary and Custom Adoption as well as Customary Care and Traditional protection systems
Possessing a college, undergraduate or graduate degree or a combination of work and community experience, is a definite asset

Term

Four-year term and may be reaffirmed at will of the National Assembly

Salary

To commensurate with qualifications

Process for Appointment

Nominations will be vetted through the Giigittaziiminanig (Grandmothers and Grandfathers) and then through the Social Chiefs then the 28 Chiefs of Grand Council Treaty No.3 and finally to the Ogichidaa and the National Assembly following Traditional Protocols

Deadline for Nominations

4:30 pm on November 1, 2021. Late nominations will not be accepted.

Please send nominations with any accompanying information that supports your nomination to:

Jordan Bertagnolli, Social Policy Analyst
Grand Council Treaty #3
P.O. Box 1720, Kenora Ontario, P9N 3X7
Jordan.Bertagnolli@treaty3.ca
Office: 807-548-4214 / Fax: 807-548-5041

All nominated candidates must provide a clear Vulnerable Sector Check and Driver’s Abstract.

Miigwetch to all the citizens of Grand Council Treaty No 3 who submit nominations. Only those who successfully negotiate the vetting process will be contacted for further information, follow up and interview.

Grand Council Treaty #3 Territorial Planning Unit – Autumn 2021 Newsletter

Website Administrator — Thu, 14 Oct 2021 01:36:31 +0000

Guided by Manito Aki Inakonigaawin, and recognizing the significance of Treaty #3’s connection to the land, the Territorial Planning Unit (TPU) works with Treaty #3 Leadership to protect the lands, waters, and resources within the 55,000 square miles that make up the Treaty #3 Territory.

You can download the Grand Council Treaty #3 Territorial Planning Unit - Autumn 2021 Newsletter (458 downloads) or visit their website to learn more.

More Info

147th Anniversary of the Signing of Treaty #3

Website Administrator — Sun, 03 Oct 2021 17:37:25 +0000

Today marks the 147th anniversary of Treaty #3, also known as the Paypom Treaty. It came about as the British wanted to plan a route between what is now Winnipeg and Thunder Bay. On this day in 1873 the Chiefs in this area negotiated, amongst other things, that the land and resources would be shared between Anishinaabe and the British “as brothers”.

The Paypom Document

The Paypom Document is an original set of notes made for Chief Powassan at the signing of the 1873 treaty between the Ojibway Indians and the government of Canada at North West Angle on Lake of the Woods.

The notes differ in many respects from the printed version of the treaty which was delivered to the signatories by government officials sometime later. Research indicates that the printed version may have been written a year before the 1873 North West Angle negotiations.

More Information

Kenora Chiefs Advisory statement on anniversary of Joyce Echaquan’s death

Website Administrator — Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:28:16 +0000

The Kenora Chiefs Advisory Board of Directors is reflecting as we honor and remember Joyce Echaquan on the one-year anniversary of her death.

One year ago, the Atikamekw mother died in the Joliette Hospital while hospital staff mocked her with racist taunts.

Echaquan live-streamed her experience on Facebook, while she cried in pain and experienced stomach pains.

The video went viral after her death leading to calls across the country for the priority need to improve conditions and services for Indigenous people in health-care centres.

“As not only leaders who sit on the Board of Directors for Kenora Chiefs Advisory, but also as leaders of our communities our Chiefs know our people are hurting, and the one-year anniversary of this tragic and horrendous death is a reminder to the challenges and obstacles our people still over come daily”, said Chief Lorraine Cobiness of Niisaachewan Anishinaabe Nation, Board President for Kenora Chiefs Advisory.

The need to build and provide the infrastructure in First Nation communities, as a way to support the traditional and cultural way of healing is still a must.

By working hand in hand with communities and health care officials, we can create a true partnership of combining both our traditional and western way of healing, and ensuring First Nations people are receiving the adequate and equitable health care they deserve. “This event was heart breaking, and we are sending our thoughts and love to her family, and we must use this instance and the instances like this all over the country to take action, and make improvements to our Health Care system, so things such as this NEVER happen again”, added Cobiness.

Both the council of Atikamekw of Manawan and the Council de la Nation Atikamekw have called on the Federal and Quebec government to implement Joyce’s Principle, which would guarantee all Indigenous people the right of equitable access to all social and health services without any discrimination, as well as right to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health.

Kenora Chiefs Advisory is working diligently, to try and start addressing these inequities, and have been very thrilled to have the help and support of multiple local physicians. Through this new model KCA is implementing, it has allowed for Physicians, Nurses and support staff to travel to communities and provide Primary Care first hand to them, instead of dealing with the barriers of no access in community.

This is an initiative we have worked tirelessly at, and are continuing to advocate for on both the provincial and federal level for our people, and for their health.

“We need to use this injustice to push forward for our people, and as we navigate this new primary care system at Kenora Chiefs Advisory, we are so grateful to our physicians and health staff who have been apart of this since the beginning, and are helping us bring forward these necessary changes in thinking and system planning”, concluded Cobiness.

For media inquiries please contact

Abbie Siroishka
Senior Executive Assistant and Communications Lead
Kenora Chiefs Advisory
Abbie.siroishka@kenorachiefs.org
(807) 407-4282

Orange Shirt Day Truth and Reconciliation Gathering and Powwow

Website Administrator — Sun, 26 Sep 2021 19:10:13 +0000

EDIT: You can view the Powwow photos here >>

Come and join Grand Council Treaty #3 and Kenora Chiefs Advisory for a gathering and powwow on September 30th 2021 at the Harbourfront Pavilion.

Starting at 9am there will be a walk from the Cecilia Jeffery Indian Residential School site to the cemetery. Then at 11:30am – 12:30pm there’ll be a Grab and Go Lunch at the Harbourfront Pavilion. The gathering and powwow will start at 1pm and will end at 10pm under the white tent.

Grand Entry will be at 1pm and 7pm. There’ll be a giveaway at 3pm, and a fishfry dinner at 5pm. Entertainment will be provided by Billy Joe Green at 6pm.

Host Drum: Ozawaganeyaash
Co-Host: Stone Hill
MC: Reno Cameron
Arena Director: Allen Lachinette

All attendees must follow all COVID-19 protocols and restrictions. Masks and hand sanitizer will be provided.

For More Info & Agenda

Delores Kelly / 807.464.0037 / delores.kelly@treaty3.ca
Hazel Merrick / 807.464.6542 / hazel.merrick@treaty3.ca
Don Kelly / 807.464.1261 / don.kelly@treaty3.ca

Grand Council Treaty #3 Announces $51million Funding Approval for Territorial Internet Connectivity Project

Website Administrator — Thu, 19 Aug 2021 00:16:54 +0000

Ogichidaa Francis Kavanaugh and Grand Council Treaty #3 are pleased to announce the approval of the $51 million Treaty #3 Territorial Internet Connectivity Project. This announcement comes on the news of a joint investment by the Federal and Provincial governments of $148 million in Northwestern Ontario.

This funding announcement will provide the Anishinaabe Nation in Treaty #3 and its partners with the tools to connect 21 First Nations to high speed fibre Internet. The Treaty #3 Territorial Internet Connectivity Project (TIC) is a joint effort of the Social and Economic Chiefs Committees at Grand Council Treaty #3. Originally conceived as a project of Health Transformation in Treaty #3 communities, the TIC Project has expanded to become one of the most important projects of Grand Council Treaty #3 due to educational and economic connectivity needs that significantly expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This project has been years in the making and it is a relief to see significant progress being made,” said Ogichidaa Francis Kavanaugh. “The issues facing our Nation throughout the COVID-19 pandemic were made significantly worse when our lack of connectivity meant that in many cases travel restrictions and aging telecommunication infrastructure left us cut off from the outside world. I applaud all leadership and staff that worked to see this project become a reality.”

“Although it will take a few years to complete this project the result will be that our citizens can access healthcare services in their community, attend school and work from home when necessary and participate in the internet economy in ways not currently available without high speed internet” said Chief Brian Perrault of Couchiching First Nation and member of the Treaty #3 Social Chiefs Committee.

“The approval of the application for broadband connectivity in Grand Council Treaty #3 is a huge accomplishment in the long-term as it will allow for greater access to business development, promotes safe and reliable internet connections and allows our citizens to participate in the global economy while maintaining the customs and identity as Anishinaabe peoples” said Chief Derrick Henderson of Sagkeeng First Nation and Chair of the Treaty #3 Economic Chiefs Committee.

Grand Council Treaty #3 also acknowledges the collaborative efforts of individual First Nation connectivity projects. In cooperation with the TIC Project, the aim is to see all 28 First Nation communities in Treaty #3 achieve reliable Internet connectivity by 2025.

Quotes from Partners

“Our government is taking another step forward in its bold plan to bring high-speed internet to every community in the province by the end of 2025 and this includes Grand Council Treaty # 3 communities. This investment will bring high-speed internet accessible to more homes and businesses and make a positive difference in the lives of countless families and individuals in Northwestern Ontario. By working together with our federal partners, we’ve achieved another important milestone in building a stronger, more connected, Ontario.”

The Honourable Kinga Surma – Ontario’s Minister of Infrastructure and Member of Provincial Parliament for Etobicoke Centre

“Bell’s priority is to connect more people in more places, and the Treaty #3 Territorial Internet Connectivity Project will provide broadband fibre Internet access in communities throughout Northwestern Ontario. We’re proud to work with Grand Council Treaty #3 to deliver enhanced high-speed connectivity for these communities as part of this historic initiative.”

Bruce Furlong, Senior Vice President, Bell Canada

“The Rainy River Future Development Corporation is pleased to have supported Grand Council Treaty #3 in their effort to bring fiber optic service to the communities they serve and to adjacent non-indigenous communities of the area. This project is a significant step towards a more connected region.”

Gord Armstrong, Chair, Rainy River Future Development Corporation

Background

Communities to benefit from the GCT3-TIC project.

Animakee Wa Zhing 37 First Nation, Anishinabe of Wauzhushk Onigum, Anishnaabeg of Naongashiing, Big Grassy First Nation, Couchiching First Nation, Grassy Narrows First Nation, Lac Des Mille Lacs First Nation, Lac La Croix First Nation, Migisi Sahgaigan First Nation, Naicatchewenin First Nation, Naotkamegwanning First Nation, Niisaachewan Anishinaabe Nation, Northwest Angle #33 First Nation, Washagamis Bay First Nation, Ojibways of Onigaming First Nation, Rainy River First Nations, Seine River First Nation, Shoal Lake #40 First Nation, Wabaseemoong Independent Nations, Wabauskang First Nation, Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation, Devlin/LaVallee, Eagle River, Emo, Minahico, Mine Centre, Morson, Nestor Falls, Sioux Narrows, Stratton, Upsala, Vermilion Bay, Wabigoon, Wabigoon/Dinorwic

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For more information please contact:
Daniel Morriseau, Political Advisor – (807) 464-2647 – daniel.morriseau@treaty3.ca
Jennifer McKibbon, Digital Health Project Lead – (807) 548-4214 ext.527 – jennifer.mckibbon@treaty3.ca

PDF – August 18, 2021 – Grand Council Treaty #3 Makes Progress on Territorial Internet Connectivity Project

The Rt. Hon. Marc Miller, Minister of Indigenous Services visits Niisaachewan Anishinaabe Nation

Website Administrator — Thu, 29 Jul 2021 17:39:39 +0000

Niisaachewan Anishinaabe Nation had the privilege and honour of welcoming special invited guest – The Honourable Marc Miller – Minister of Indigenous Services.

Minister Miller got Thee Grande Tour of the Community, our new facilities/ offices/ gym, as we also took him down memory lane and educated him on the history of our beloved homeland, the Dalles Rapids, water levels, and the infamous channel. We took some much needed time to discuss a variety important initiatives and topics such as our communities needs and priorities, past and future business developments, current high profile projects and our communities mandate.

It’s times like these that we are encouraged to provide healthy examples of Government to Government Relationship Building through simple, meaningful ways that are guided by our Traditional Protocols and Practice.

Partnerships are key!

Chief and Council would like to give a big Miigwetch to all the youth and elders, staff, coordinated help that came to participate today! We would also like to thank the drummers, protocol advisor/ helper, and acknowledge the sacred traditional items in attendance as we really felt the community spirit alive and well.

Be proud Niisaachewan!

Chi Miigwetch to all!

Canada’s Minister of Indigenous Services is visiting Niisaachewan

Website Administrator — Tue, 27 Jul 2021 03:49:38 +0000

Chief and Council and the community of Niisaachewan would like to welcome a special visitor into our community tomorrow on July 27th 2021 @ 10am. The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Indigenous Services will join us in some planned activity around the community that will offer him a first hand look at our beautiful home land

This will be following by a light ceremony with our community drum, gift exchange, and face to face meeting with Chief and Council. Please give him a warm welcome if you see him around the office or community.

Miigwetch to everyone who helped make this special visit happen. Let’s represent ourselves with great pride!

Ogichidaa Francis Kavanaugh Disappointed in Local MP’s Canada Day Messaging

Website Administrator — Tue, 06 Jul 2021 00:26:54 +0000

This past July 1, Ogichidaa Francis Kavanaugh and Grand Council Treaty #3 participated in memorial activities across the Treaty #3 territory for the victims of the Residential School System. After reflection, Ogichidaa Kavanaugh expresses disappointment in MP Eric Melillo for his Canada Day messaging.

“It was actually one of the best July 1^st experiences we have ever had,” said Ogichidaa Francis Kavanaugh. “I spoke with many people that day and although we were honouring Residential School victims, we were also celebrating that we are still here as a people and so we chose to spend our statutory holiday together in our own way.”

Despite the controversy surrounding the cancellation of Canada Day celebrations across the country, hundreds of non-indigenous supporters gathered at these events in the Treaty #3 territory to express their sorrow and solidarity. The regular red coloured celebrations across Canada were widely replaced by crowds dressed in orange to honour residential school survivors and those that never came home.

“I was disappointed to hear Kenora MP Eric Melillo’s consistent radio messages promoting and encouraging people to celebrate Canada Day,” added Ogichidaa Francis Kavanaugh. “As his constituency had one of the highest concentrations of residential schools in Canada, I would have hoped he would be more thoughtful of the people he represents. I myself, was shocked and humbled by the support we received, and I hope those people who chose empathy over tradition also express their concerns to their representatives.”

Ogichidaa Francis Kavanaugh and Grand Council Treaty #3 seek to work with all partners, regardless of political affiliation, but only in the spirit of mutual respect. In the coming days Ogichidaa Kavanaugh plans to reach out to MP Melillo to discuss the effects the Residential School system has had on the Kenora region.

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For more information please contact: Daniel Morriseau, Political Advisor – (807) 464-2647 or by email daniel.morriseau@treaty3.ca

Niisaachewan supports Ontario Government announcement on Residential Schools

Website Administrator — Tue, 15 Jun 2021 22:41:17 +0000

Niisaachewan Anishinaabe Nation, June 15th 2021- Niisaachewan Anishinaabe Nation says the Ontario governments announcement on Residential Schools is a step in the right direction.

Today, Premier Doug Ford announced 10 million dollars to help support the identification, investigation, protection and commemoration of the Residential School burial sites across the province.

Minister Greg Rickford invited the Ogichidaa Francis Kavanaugh on behalf of Treaty Three and Niisaachewan Anishinaabe Nation, as he made the announcement today in Kenora at Seven Generations.

The community was honoured to be invited to attend this event, and says Miigwetch to Minister Rickford for putting so much precedent on this announcement.

“I believe this is a good step forward as we continue to work towards truth and reconciliation with all indigenous people across this country”, said Chief Lorraine Cobiness. “This is the first step forward however in this process, and I would like to call on both levels of government to continue to support efforts in healing as we move forward, this is just the beginning and the impact this has had and continues to have on our people is something that we all have to work together in partnership to make right.”

With todays announcement, it is crucial and essential that this is an Anishinaabe led path, and we must go ahead with this guided by ceremony and supported by our survivors and elders.

“As leaders of our communities, we have to do absolutely everything we can to support this path forward, and to ensure this never happens again, as must protect our children, they are our future,” added Cobiness speaking on behalf of herself and her council. “This is part of honouring the spirits of those children, who never got to return home again, and we must continue to honour them in the work we do moving forward.”

The province says they will be identifying technical experts that will be available to lead the related research, analysis and technical field work that will be required to ensure it is conducted to high standards, in correlation with the work that will be conducted through ceremony. The government also notes that Indigenous communities will have the option to work with the Ontario specialists.

There are many other things we must do, besides just this announcement to make progress, which includes supporting and promoting the initiatives and partnerships (for example the All Nations Health Partners, the Jays Care Foundation, Grand Council Treaty Three etc) that we have formed that support healing, creating safe youth spaces and our mental health programming.

We as a community are proud with the partnership we have formed, and will continue to invest in these relationships so we have a strong foundation for our youth.

For more information please contact:

Chief Lorraine Cobiness
Niisaachewan Anishinaabe Nation
(807) 548-5876

Niisaachewan Anishinaabe Nation excited for new Empowering Women Program

Website Administrator — Fri, 04 Jun 2021 22:24:44 +0000

The community of Niisaachewan Anishinaabe Nation is proud and happy to announce their new “Empowering Women Program” with the support of the Canadian Women’s Foundation.

This program was developed as a response from the community to provide the opportunity to empower and protect our Anishinaabe women, as well as working closely to protect, honor and celebrate our 2SLGBTQ+ community.

This program will focus on Anishinaabe teachings, cultural revitalization programming, and mindfulness to bring support and awareness to our membership, including the support to revitalize traditional roles in rebuilding the connection to Anishinaabe culture and eliminate perpetuating cycles of violence as a result from multi-generational and inter-generational trauma, including displacement.

“The goal of the program is really to make sure we enhance our Anishinaabe identities, our voices and our freedom towards Mino Bimaadiziwin (The Good Life),” said Chief Lorraine Cobiness. “Partnerships and working together is the foundation of all our successful programs, and the needs for collaboration of services is a really positive step towards reducing the risk factors that threaten individuals and their well-being”.

In order to support the goals of this program, the EWP (Empowering Women Program) will include our Elders, Traditional Healers and Knowledge Keepers when implementing strength based holistic approaches in providing supports for community members to honor and protect Anishinaabe culture, language, traditions, and practices.

The release of the final report for the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Inquiry sparked the realization for how impactful this program will be in our community and for our people, and following the release the application for funding for this program took place.

In reflecting back on the report, this program will incorporate the recommendations made for example: The need for public education and greater public awareness of violence against Indigenous women and girls, The need for properly resourced initiatives and programming to address root causes of violence against Indigenous women and girls etc.

We believe by utilizing the recommendations made we will really empower our women and expand the scope of knowledge on the importance of these action steps forward.

The program will be looking to work with external resources such as Kenora Chiefs Advisory, Waasegiizhig Nanaandawe’iyewigamig, and Grand Council Treaty 3 to ensure the ability to strengthen supportive and healthy relationships utilizing bi-cultural practices and culturally appropriate programming such as the Agichi’giizhigoonsag Program (“Wise Young Warrior Suns”) for our Youth and other community-driven, culturally appropriate land-based activities.

As part of Anishinaabe healing to honoring and keeping our children safe, we are very excited to begin working with Anishinaabe families, members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, and most importantly, our children; to protect and uphold Anishinaabe culture for the next generations.

More Info

Amanda Gray
Empowering Women Project Coordinator
empowering.women@niisaachewan.ca
(807) 548-5876

Pride Month 2021

Website Administrator — Wed, 02 Jun 2021 06:20:10 +0000

Each year it is incumbent upon us all to remind ourselves that while great strides are being made to ensure that the LGBTQ2 members of society received equal treatment, there are still challenges they face in the form of verbal and/or physical attacks in the workplace, at the gym, out in society, and sometimes even in their home homes. Niisaachewan Anishinaabe Nation’s Chief and Council are committed to the recognition of our community members who are lesbian / gay / bi-sexual / transgender / 2-spirit / questioning, and are dedicated to creating a positive and non-judgmental environment where they can fully express their individuality and identity without fear.

By working to build a community based on tolerance and acceptance, we hope for a community in which the personal happiness of every one person is the priority of all people. We will attempt to foster connections between any and all diverse groups, including the myriad of personal/sexual identity groups with which people may identify.

We hope both to educate and to cultivate an attitude towards others marked by a generosity of spirit and acceptance. We will set a new precedent for those who come after us, in the hopes that one day statements such as this, as well as Pride Month will not be a necessity, but rather a cultural norm – an accepted facet of everyday life for everyone.

Ogichidaa Francis Kavanaugh and Grand Council Treaty #3 Mourn Victims of Kamloops Indian Residential School

Website Administrator — Tue, 01 Jun 2021 15:56:18 +0000

Ogichidaa Francis Kavanaugh and Grand Council Treaty #3 express deep condolences to the people of Tk’emlúps te Secwe̓pemc First Nation and all communities whose children attended the Kamloops Indian Residential School. The remains of 215 students found on the school site last week is a solemn reminder of the harm inflicted by the Residential School System on First Nations communities across Canada.

“I am outraged, saddened, and completely heartbroken upon hearing the news,” said Ogichidaa Francis Kavanaugh. “This story has resonated with people from across the country because every First Nation person has been impacted, whether directly or from the intergenerational trauma inflicted by residential schools. The trauma inflicted by the Residential School System is still impacting our communities to this day.”

The Anishinaabe Nation in Treaty #3 calls upon all its affiliated organizations and its neighbours in the Treaty #3 territory to lower their flags to half mast this week in honour of the 215 children and all the survivors of residential schools.

“I hope that this tragic news allows Canadians to consider the harm caused by these institutions,” added Ogichidaa Francis Kavanaugh. “It hurts when people say the effects are in the past or that the policy was anything short of what it was: the crime of genocide. Survivors still face denial of the genocide including most notably from the Roman Catholic Church.”

This week will also see many ceremonies and acts of remembrance across Treaty #3 and all citizens of the Anishinaabe Nation in Treaty #3 are asked to check in with loved ones and community members that may need support.

For those who need support please contact:
GCT3 IRS Team – (807) 548-4214
IRS Survivors Society – 1-800-721-0066

For more information please contact:
Daniel Morriseau, Political Advisor – (807) 464-2647 or by email daniel.morriseau@treaty3.ca

KCA Chiefs send thoughts to families of Kamloops residential school

Website Administrator — Tue, 01 Jun 2021 15:51:39 +0000

The Board of Directors at Kenora Chiefs Advisory are comprised of the Chiefs of 9 communities which KCA serves, located in Treaty #3 Territory. The Chiefs, alongside KCA staff covey our deepest, heartfelt acknowledgments to the families of the Tk’emlúps te Secwe̓pemc First Nation. We take this time to also acknowledge all the families across our Nations who have had children that attended residential schools, and many families that continue to grieve children who went missing or died while at these schools. The recent discovery of a mass grave of 215 children is another reminder of the harrowing realities and impacts that the residential school system continues to have on Anishinaabeg. This loss is felt both individually, and collectively.

“I am deeply saddened for all the families that have been affected by this absolute tragedy”, said Board President, Chief Lorraine Cobiness of Niisaachewan Anishnaabe Nation. “We will stand in solidarity with all those who have been affected by this unimaginable loss, and acknowledge that the trauma from the residential school system still implicates this country and our people today”.

Ogichidaa Francis Kavanaugh calls upon all its affiliated organizations and neighbours in the Treaty #3 territory to lower their flags to half-mast this week in honour of the 215 Tk’emlúps te Secwe̓pemc children, and all survivors of residential schools. The KCA Board and its staff will be participating in response to this call.

The memorial sites located at Cecilia Jeffrey and St. Mary’s Residential Schools remain places where community members can make offerings and pray. In Kenora, a memorial located at the Kenora Shoppers Mall round-about has been organized by local Grandmothers and community members for those that wish to pay their respects.

KCA encourages everyone to educate themselves on the ongoing legacy of Residential Schools by reading the Truth and Reconciliation’s Calls to Action, and thinking about how as individuals we can advance these Calls within our collective communities, and society.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Abbie Siroishka
Senior Executive Assistant and Communications Lead
Kenora Chiefs Advisory
(807) 407-4282
abbie.siroishka@kenorachiefs.ca

For Youth By Youth – MMIWG Video

Website Administrator — Thu, 06 May 2021 05:54:01 +0000

Grand Council Treaty #3 with support of the Women’s Council Gaagiidoo-Ikwewag, is proud to stand with the youth of Treaty #3 Territory in unity to raise awareness on the issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.

Grand Council Treaty #3 launched the Zahgidiwin Campaign, January 25th, 2021 and have since then sent thousands of ribbons across the Nation, Canada and United States. The Zahgidiwin Red Ribbon Campaign is a Treaty #3 Territory movement for Indigenous and non- Indigenous people who stand together in ending violence toward Indigenous Women and Girls.

In light of the unsolved cases here in Treaty #3 territory it is time we recognize violence against Indigenous Women and Girls as a National Human Rights Crisis.

“I am incredibly proud of the Women’s Council and the Zahgidiwin campaign” said Ogichidaa Francis Kavanaugh. “Here and across the country, far too many of our mothers, grandmothers, sisters, aunts, and other loved ones are still missing. These conversations are always difficult to have but I hold up the Women’s Council and all those standing behind them – especially our young women – as they bring awareness to this travesty.”

Grand Council Treaty #3 will continue to advocate for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, MMIWG families and those impacted by the issue of MMIWG to ensure the Canada National Action Plan is designed and delivered to meet the needs of the people in the Anishinaabe Nation of Treaty #3 and press for action on systemic racism in all its forms.

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For more information please contact:
Daniel Morriseau, Political Advisor – (807) 464-2647 – daniel.morriseau@treaty3.ca
Cassandra Yerxa, MMIWG Worker – (807) 788-1003 ext. 213 – cassandra.yerxa@treaty3.ca

Request for Proposals (RFP) for Grand Council Treaty #3 NWMO Engagement Project

Website Administrator — Tue, 08 Dec 2020 22:09:26 +0000

Ogichidaa Francis Kavanaugh Outraged by Lesser Charge in Trailer Hitch Killing

Website Administrator — Fri, 18 Sep 2020 18:46:50 +0000

Ogichidaa Francis Kavanaugh and Grand Council Treaty #3 express outrage at the news of the reduction of charges laid against Brayden Bushby in the killing of Barbara Kentner. A member of Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation, Kentner was walking on the street late when evening with her sister when she was struck by a trailer hitch thrown from a moving vehicle.

Brayden Bushby, now 20 and whose trial is expected to begin October 13, had been facing second-degree murder charges. That charge has now been reduced to charges of manslaughter and aggravated assault.

“We see this time and time again where violence against indigenous people is not given the same level of care and attention in the Canadian justice system,” said Ogichidaa Francis Kavanaugh, “It is difficult to believe there is not a racial component to this decision. For our people, it is easy to see that had the situation been reversed – had an indigenous person struck and killed a non-indigenous person – the accused would already be in jail facing a murder charge.”

The incident, occurring on January 29, 2017, made national headlines at a time when the city of Thunder Bay was under scrutiny for systemic and widespread racism in the city and in its police force. The death of Kentner, who was a member of the Treaty #3 community of Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation, serves as a reminder of the dangers facing Treaty #3 citizens that find themselves in the city of Thunder Bay.

“Thunder Bay is a destination for many of our people here in Treaty #3 territory,” Kavanaugh said, “Whether living there or just visiting, we all know full well how notorious that city is for its widespread racism and hatred. For someone to be killed in such a manner, it demonstrates how problematic our peoples’ experiences can be there.”

During this time, Ogichidaa Kavanaugh and Grand Council Treaty #3 would like to express sincerest condolences to the family of Barbara Kentner. Grand Council Treaty #3 and the leadership of the Anishinaabe Nation in Treaty #3 will continue to press on in their work on justice system reform, advocacy for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MIIWG), and press for action on systemic racism in all its forms.

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For more information please contact:

Daniel Morriseau
Political Advisor
Grand Council Treaty #3

Tel: (807) 464-2647
Email daniel.morriseau@treaty3.ca

Grand Council Treaty #3 Announces the Creation of an LGBTQ2S Council as an Integral Part of Its National Governance

Website Administrator — Sat, 12 Sep 2020 07:45:41 +0000

Ogichidaa Francis Kavanaugh and Grand Council Treaty #3 feel honoured to announce the creation of an LGBTQ2S Council as an integral part of the governance structure of the Anishinaabe Nation in Treaty #3.

The Anishinaabe Nation in Treaty #3 is governed by its Four Directional Model. As part of this model, the Chiefs-In-Assembly and the Ogichidaa are guided in their work by the four councils: the Women’s Council, the Men’s Council, the Youth Council, and the Elder’s Council. Each council consists of four members, one from each of the four geographical directions of the Nation that can participate in the four Chiefs Committees in a dedicated guidance role from the perspective of men, women, youth, and elders.

However, after significant thought and reflection, the Chiefs-in-Assembly have concluded that there are members of the Anishinaabe Nation that may not find themselves represented within these four councils. The decision was made that the creation of a fifth council is necessary to ensure that every citizen of the Anishinaabe Nation feels they see themselves and their experiences within the Nation’s governance structures.

“This past summer has given us all time to reflect on how society excludes many people and their stories,” said Ogichidaa Francis Kavanaugh. “This has been a personal journey for myself as well, as a heterosexual man, who must admit that he does not know the realities faced by those whose genders or sexual orientations varies from that which society has long deemed “normal.” Sometimes a governance system, no matter how sacred or functional, must be changed if it excludes those that are most vulnerable. This council is of critical importance to me as I seek guidance on how to ensure that LGBTQ2S individuals are never again left feeling as though they do not have a place within the Nation that loves them.”

Selection of the LGBTQ2S Council members will occur at the next Chiefs-in-Assembly in the same manner as the other four councils and its four members will be invited to oversee every aspect of the governance of the Anishinaabe Nation in Treaty #3.

Grand Council Treaty #3 would also like to encourage all other indigenous organizations, governments, and nations to reflect on how their systems impact the life experiences of LGBTQ2S people and how the revival of their place within our nations can contribute to the decline of the colonial systems forced upon us and contribute to the healing we work towards every day.

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For more information please contact:

Daniel Morriseau
Political Advisor
Grand Council Treaty #3

807.464.2647
daniel.morriseau@treaty3.ca