okanagan nation e-news august 2012 annual general assembly
TRANSCRIPT
August 2012 ONA E-News 1
Annual General Assembly Table of Contents
Okanagan Nation Alliance AGA
1
Youth Leadership Conference
2
Okanagan Youth Alliance
3
Aboriginal Family Group Conference
3
Bursary Recipients
4
Natural Resource
4
Sockeye Harvest 4-5
Truth & Reconciliation Commemorative Project
6
Ogopogo Art 6
eMentoring 7
AECD 7 What’s Happening
8
S Y I L X O K A N A G A N N A T I O N E - N E W S
August 2012
That evening community members were invited to participate in the Run for the Drum with 4 winners from 3 age categories and one random draw before the Community Dinner and Gathering began. During the dinner, the “Building a Better Future Education for Life” bursary was awarded. Stick games and recording “Hear My Voice” by Will Swite concluded the evening’s entertainment. On the last day, presentations were made on Okanagan Nation Education, Wellness and Resolutions that ended the two day gathering. Next year’s AGA will be hosted by Lower Similkameen Indian Band.
The Annual General Assembly (AGA) was co-hosted by the Okanagan Indian Band at Komasket Park from July 25th-26th with close to two hundred community members, vendors and informational booths in attendance. The AGA started with Grand Entry and posting of the flags which was then followed by Opening addresses and a “25 Years since Signing Declaration” Ceremony by Ben Louis. Presentations were made on the Syilx Cooperative Protocol, Colville/ONA Arrow Lakes Protocol, Aboriginal Title and Rights, Health/Wellness, Child & Family/Wellness as well as a presentation on the Okanagan Youth Alliance (OYA).
August 2012 ONA E-News 2
Youth Leadership Conference
From July 24th – 26th, 2012 the Okanagan Nation Alliance hosted the third annual Okanagan Nation Youth Leadership Conference which coincided with the 25th annual Okanagan Nation AGA held in Komasket Park in Vernon. Over 60 youth participated in 12 workshops throughout the conference. The first day of the conference started out with an opening smudge and prayer circle. Youth were welcomed by Chief Byron Louis. This was followed by four workshops, the evening concluded with a community concert with youth performers. KayKaiktw Hall performed some traditional songs and dances, Warren Hooley aka “Abrupt” performed a Hip Hop Performance and Skookum Sound System performed an audio visual performance and their performance had everyone up and dancing the night away.
The next day youth participated in the opening ceremonies of
the AGA. This was followed by a key note speaker Kris Archie
who spoke about youth leadership. The following is a list of
workshops youth participated in over the course of the three
days:
Lateral Violence workshop facilitated by Kim Montgomery, Fishing workshop facilitated by John Hall, Archeology workshop facilitated by Meghan Fisher, Canoeing workshop facilitated by the Kwu Sukwna?qinx Canoe Family
Traditional Dance facilitated by Madeline Gregoire, Indigenous Arts facilitated by Skookum Sound members
Empowerment workshop facilitated by Aaron Derickson, Recording workshop facilitated by Will Swite
Nsyilxcen workshop facilitated by Kara Ross
Interactive leadership workshop facilitated by Kris Archie Syilx Cultural workshop facilitated by Arnie Baptiste, Ochre workshop facilitated by Hazel Squakin, Syilx Child and Family Poster Project facilitated by Fabian Alexis
Throughout the conference the youth were able to interact and meet new youth from other communities. During the evenings they participated in stick games and hand drumming. Komasket is such a beautiful location that we had some communities’ camp out on site; these youth entertained their mornings with a paddle on the lake. Thanks to all the youth participants and all the youth workers that took part in this nation event. Look forward to seeing you on the Okanagan Youth Canoe Journey from August 20th – 25th, 2012.
August 2012 ONA E-News 3
The Aboriginal Family Group Conference (AFGC) Program has been very active this summer. We have been working with 13 families and have held 17 family circles to date. Currently, we are holding 6 referrals on the waitlist. We have seen safety planning, wrap around planning and often placement planning with families. We have seen this past fiscal year children returning from MCFD care into family care, either with Mothers and Fathers or Grandparents. Currently we are still struggling with a capacity issue for the AFGC program. We are currently working with families in Princeton, Penticton, Westbank, Kelowna and Vernon. Over the past few months the AFGC program has begun to utilize the Chipmunk as a symbol of the strength of our families. When working with the families the coordinator has been handing out to children and adults the family Chipmunks. These Chipmunks are wearing a ribbon that say “Family – Naqsilt” and are used as visual reminders of the strength the family has coming together to make plans for their children. The children and adults also are taking the Chipmunks away as a representation of their family plans. These Chipmunks offer reminder and often comfort in a high stress environment. Thus, far only positive feedback has been received on the use of the Chipmunks.
If you or you know of a family that would benefit from the AFGC program please do not hesitate to contact: Cricket Testawich AFGC Coordinator [email protected] P: (778) 931-0226
Aboriginal Family Group Conference
Okanagan Youth Alliance
During the AGA, the Okanagan Youth Alliance working group (OYA) officially recognized their outgoing members Thelma Chilihitzia, Viola Brown, Sarain Squakin, Justin George and John C. Richter for their hard work and dedication to the group. Each Band’s Chief and Council selected a male and female youth to represent their youth for two years. Incoming members include Taylor Baptiste from Osoyoos Indian Band, Betty Jean Cardenas and Warren Hooley from Penticton Indian Band, Justen Peters from the Okanagan Indian Band and Alicia McRae from Upper Nicola Band. The objectives of the youth alliance are to encourage unity and
promote nationhood among youth throughout the Okanagan territory, to promote and preserve Syilx culture and language, to empower youth through connectedness and pride of being Syilx and giving youth the opportunity to be heard by becoming an advisory body to the CEC. Each member of the youth alliance has a portfolio; an area of focus on various aspects of the Okanagan Nation. Their portfolio’s include: Language, Health, Recreation, Culture, Education, Youth Mental Health, Child & Families and Natural Resources. A warm welcome to all the incoming members!
August 2012 ONA E-News 4
Sockeye Harvest 2012 Plan
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME AND WHERE THE BETTER LOCATIONS TO FISH? We are anticipating 2012 to be similar to 2011. If water levels are average, then fishing between the second week and fourth week of July at OK Falls or McIntyre Dam sites are best targeted. Followed by good fishing in early September when the fish re-enter the river when water temperatures are cooler. Fish are most active early in the morning (6:00 am -9:00 am) and in the evening (6:00 pm to 10:00 pm). DOES THE QUALITY OF THE FISH CHANGE OVER THE COURSE OF THE SEASON? Yes. When sockeye first return in July to August to Osoyoos Lake (Okanagan River) the meat quality is excellent for fresh, and freezing (head on, guts out). Later on in September, the flesh quality diminishes and is more suited for canning, or smoking. Figure 2. Summary of migratory timing of Okanagan Sockeye via the Columbia River, Osoyoos Lake, and then to Okanagan River (to Okanagan Falls).
“Building a Better Future Education for Life” Bursary
During the Community Dinner and Gathering at the
Annual General Assembly on July 25th, Grand Chief
Stewart Phillip and Bob Gibney from Fortis BC presented
the “Building a Better Future Education for Life” bursary
award to continuing secondary students or students who
are entering University.
Yolanda Hecter from the Penticton Indian Band is a
recipient of this bursary and is going to school at the
Okanagan College for Human Kinetics. Dina Brown from
the Okanagan Indian Band is the other recipient and will
be attending the University of British Columbia-
Okanagan. She is working on becoming an Okanagan
Language teacher.
In the syilx language the Letter ?c? is pronounced like the English ?ch? in the word ?church? that is probably why some people spell it with a ?c? and some people spell it with a ?ch?. The syilx word captik?? is the word that is used when speaking about a captik?? (Coyote Legend). The syilx word captik?l (with the letter l) is when someone is telling a captik?l (Coyote Legend). It is properly spelled with only the letter ?c? in front... and the last letter, either the ??? (barred l) or the English letter ?l? is used to show the difference between the two words and is pronounced accordingly.
Natural Resources
August 2012 ONA E-News 5
August 2012 ONA E-News 6
Truth and Reconciliation Commemorative
Project This project has been developed and supported by the ONA Wellness Committee which is comprised of health and social development representatives from each of the seven member bands. By working together as a Nation the Wellness Committee believes that “we will create a far reaching legacy of commemoration and healing among both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people in our territory”. The ONA Wellness Committee have committed to support and assist with the work of Jami Tonasket, TRC Project Coordinator to reach out to former Okanagan Nation Residential School students and families within their respective communities to discuss the Commemorative Project and seek their guidance and input. Since ONA was notified of our Proposal approval, Jennifer Houde, ONA Child and Family Lead has provided project updates to the Wellness Committee and Chiefs Executive Council inviting feedback and direction on project implementation. These collaborative discussions will continue. Jami Tonasket was hired to assist with the delivery of this Nationwide initiative. The TRC Project will focus on 3 activities:
1. Community workshops and Commemorative Project Research (historical archives and current documentation).
2. Community Traditional Structure 3. Memorial Structure
The TRC Commemorative Project 3 Key objectives: 1. The interlinking of Commemorative activities
proposed for the seven member communities will honor and validate former students and their families.
2. Will provide opportunity for increased public and educational awareness of Okanagan Nation members who attended Residential School.
3. To promote and support wellness among the Syilx people, from Elders and former students to our young people today.
This project’s overall intention is to bring communities together, bridging the Inter-generational legacy that Residential school left, and to acknowledge our peoples resilience, culture, spirituality and continue to restore our culture and strengthen Syilx family systems. For more information, please contact: Jami Tonasket TRC Project Coordinator Phone: (250) 707-0095 Ext. 128 Email: [email protected]
Ogopogo Art Contest Winners
The Ogopogo Environmental & Engineering Consultants Ltd held an art contest for elementary grades children. The two winners for the two age categories are: Kimmimela Louis and Sophie Wiebe, both from Vernon, BC. Both of the winners will be going on a trip to research Squally Point near the end of August. Congratulations!
August 2012 ONA E-News 7
Aboriginal eMentoring BC
eMentoring is an online mentoring program for Aboriginal youth. Using the internet, we will be matching Aboriginal youth with mentors who are 100% dedicated to helping them figure out what they want and how to get there. Did you know an Aboriginal youth from Grade 7-12 who would benefit from a university mentor? Benefits of being a mentee:
Explore different career options
Connect with mentors to learn more about university life and experiences
Get guidance from a supportive team APPLY ONLINE: http://fluidsurveys.com/s/mentee-application/
Want more information?
Chris Alexander Katherine Wisener eMentoring Community Lead-Okanagan Project Manager, eMentoring [email protected] [email protected]
Aboriginal Early Childhood Development
developmental milestones, and incorporates parents’ expert knowledge about their children. Who is this training for? This training is being offered to Early Childhood staff working with Aboriginal children (aged 0-6) within the Okanagan territory. It is open to a variety of staff such as Aboriginal Headstart, Daycare staff, Aboriginal Infant Development Consultants, Aboriginal Supported Child Development Consultants and any other Aboriginal Early Childhood professionals. The ASQ is also a great tool to open up communication between professionals and parents to discuss the development of their child(ren). For more information, please contact: Nadine Gagné AECD Coordinator [email protected] P: (250) 707-0095 ext. 111
eMentoringBC
Aboriginal eMentoring BC-UBC Faculty of Medicine, eHealth Strategy Office
www.ementoringbc.com
There is an Aboriginal Supported Child Development regional meeting being coordinated by Nadine Gagné – AECD Coordinator and Cindy Jamieson – ASCD Provincial Advisor for ASCD and SCD staff within the Okanagan territory. It will take place:
August 9th 2012 10am to 1:00pm Inkameep Resource Centre
Osoyoos Indian Band – Oliver. BC There is also an ASQ3 and ASQ-SE – Ages and Stages Developmental Screening – 1 day training taking place at “No Cost” on:
August 13th 2012 9:00am-4:30pm Osoyoos Indian Band – Headstart Program
SemPokChin School at Osoyoos Indian Band – Oliver BC. What is ASQ? Professionals rely on the ASQ for the best developmental and social-emotional screening for children from one month to 5 ½ years. Highly reliable and valid, ASQ looks at strengths and trouble spots, educates parents about
August 2012 ONA E-News 8
August 2012 ONA E-News 9
Interim Harvesting Schedule Okanagan Nation Open Fishing July 24 – September 10, 2012
ONA September 2012 E-News
DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS
August 20, 2012
If you have a story or event that you would like
included in our E-bulletin please email:
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Iron Eagle Project A program that encompasses the teaching of Martial Arts with the development of an individual and community’s
cultural, physical, spiritual and mental growth.
For more information, please contact: Robert Pelletier
P: (905) 320-4210 [email protected] www.ironeagleproject.com
Education & Health Forum 2012 Aboriginal Suicide and Trauma: Prevention & Intervention.
What is working, What is Hopeful
August 23-24, 2012 Victoria, BC
For more information, view: www.aboriginaltrainingandconsultingservices.com
Or email: [email protected]
Chief Negotiators Meeting August 9-10, 2012
North Vancouver, BC
Many Happy Returns A Gala Fundraising Dinner & Auction Celebrating a
Historical Sockeye Salmon Return to Okanagan River August 2, 2012
The Grand Delta Okanagan Resort Kelowna, BC
For more information, contact:
Tracey Bussanich, ONA P: (250) 707-0095 ext. 130
Email: [email protected]
First Nation’s Summit Meeting September 19-20, 2012
Vancouver, BC
snxa/l’iwlem OKANAGAN NATION SALMON FEAST AND CELEBRATION
September 14-16, 2012
Okanagan Falls Provincial Park http://www.syilx.org/events/okanagan-nation-salmon-
feast-2/ For more information, please contact: Dominique Alexis [email protected] P: (250) 707-0095
ONA BAND MEMBER OPPORTUNITIES
OKIB- Social Worker
OKIB- Executive Assistant for Territorial Stewardship/Research
OKIB- Economic Development Director
OKIB- Lands Manager
OKIB- Archaeology Field Workers
OKIB- Employment & Training Facilitator
Enowkin- Restorative Justice Program Manager
ONA/UNB- Higher Level Opportunity: Erosion Sediment Control Crew
OIB- Youth Worker/Intervention
PIB Education Centre- Teacher http://www.syilx.org/careers/ona-members-band-opportunities/ ONA OPPORTUNITIES
Biologist 3
On-Call Fisheries Technicians http://www.syilx.org/careers/ona-opportunities/
Haven Hill Retirement Centre Job Fair August 8, 2012 11am – 3pm
415 Haven Hill Rd, Penticton BC www.havenhills.ca/careers