New book on the power of water takes centre stage during political threat
By Shari Narine, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Windspeaker.com Michi Saagiig Nishnaabeg writer, scholar and musician Leanne Betasamosake Simpson admits she was worried that when her book Theory of Water: Nishnaabe Maps to the Times Ahead was finally published it would no longer be relevant. “I wrote the book at a different time. Trump wasn’t elected yet,” said Betasamosake Simpson. But with Theory of Water, which hit bookstores April 22, Betasamosake Simpson’s non-fiction is even more relevant as U.S. President Donald Trump insists that Canada should become the 51st state, having his sights set on Canada’s water, minerals and natural resources. At the same time, the federal Liberals and Conservatives are vowing to extract those resources for an economic advantage at home. “I’m always thinking the people that that is going...
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First Nations Leaders Question Conservative Party on Economic Development, Safety at AFN Forum
By Joshua Santos Writer Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre faced questions from First Nations leaders at a national election forum hosted by the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) as part of a virtual series with federal party leaders ahead of the April 28 election. The forum, live streamed by the AFN, provided an opportunity for First Nations leaders to raise key issues, including clean drinking water, child welfare, policing, infrastructure, and reconciliation. Poilievre outlined his party’s platform, emphasizing economic reconciliation and Indigenous-led resource development in partnership with corporations and conglomerates. “There are trillions of dollars in resource wealth we can bring to the surface,” said Poilievre. “I think First Nations can be the richest people in the entire world. It needs to happen in partnership and we need to ensure...
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First Nations Leaders Press Green Party on Policing, Water, and Land Rights at AFN Forum
By Joshua Santos Writer First Nations leaders challenged Green Party co-leaders on policing, clean water, and treaty land claims at a virtual Assembly of First Nations (AFN) election forum. The event, part of a series ahead of the April 28 federal election, enabled Indigenous officials to press federal party leaders on priorities outlined in the AFN’s Prosperity for All: First Nations Priorities for the 2025 Federal Election report. AFN National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak highlighted the critical timing of the forums. “If we ever needed an election forum series exclusively for First Nations, I think 2025 is the year we have to do it,” said Woodhouse Nepinak. “Not only are we moving into a dangerous era of U.S. colonialism, we are also coming up on the 10th anniversary of the...
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NDP Leader Commits to UNDRIP Implementation, Indigenous-Led Services at AFN Forum
By Joshua Santos Writer NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh pledged full implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and greater support for Indigenous-led services during a national election forum hosted by the Assembly of First Nations. The virtual event, part of the AFN’s ongoing federal election series, provided a platform for First Nations leaders to raise pressing concerns and hold party leaders accountable ahead of the April 28 vote. “Please count on me as an ally,” said Singh. “I have shown in the past my commitment to fighting for justice for Indigenous peoples. I will continue to do that. That is my ongoing commitment.” Singh said an NDP government would legislate the full application of UNDRIP across all federal departments and prioritize Indigenous governance in...
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Liberal Party Leader Pledges to Implement UNDRIP, Fund $10B Indigenous Loan Guarantee at AFN Forum
By Joshua Santos Writer Liberal Party leader Mark Carney pledged to fully implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) Act and inject $10 billion into an Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program during a national election forum hosted by the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), ahead of the April 28 vote. The forum, live-streamed by the AFN, offered First Nations leaders the opportunity to raise critical issues such as clean drinking water, child welfare, policing, infrastructure, and reconciliation. Carney outlined his party’s platform by building on what he called the momentum of the previous administration’s reconciliation efforts. He committed to advancing self-determination, supporting land claims, and fulfilling treaty obligations, particularly in the context of what he described as a crisis sparked by U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade...
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Brant health unit warns of measles exposure near Six Nations
By Joshua Santos Writer Grand Erie Public Health is warning residents about several new potential measles exposure sites in Simcoe and Langton, including a grocery store, restaurant, school, and school bus route between April 15 and 19. The recent exposures come as the region reports 135 confirmed measles cases, with the majority concentrated in Norfolk County. The confirmed exposure sites include the Real Canadian Superstore and Simcoe Arms Restaurant and Pub on April 19, École St. Marie Elementary School and a school bus route on April 17, and Valley Heights Secondary School in Langton on April 15. Health officials said people who were at any of these locations during the identified times may be at risk, particularly those born in or after 1970 who have not received two doses of...
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Local candidates’ roundtable focused on environment and First Nations’ issues
By David Briggs, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, BayToday.ca Last evening, April 23, candidates in the Nipissing-Timiskaming riding participated in a roundtable discussion focused on environmental and First Nations issues. Specifically, how to mediate climate change and how to remedy PFAS chemicals – also known as forever chemicals – in the region’s drinking water, were two main topics. Further, how to meaningfully consult with First Nations and what to do with nuclear waste rounded out the evening’s themes. The event was organized by Northwatch, an advocate for environmental protection and public participation in environmental decision-making in northeastern Ontario. About 25 people streamed into the basement gym at St. Andrews United Church at 399 Cassells Street to watch the event, which began at 6 p.m. with an opportunity to meet and talk...
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Premier, Dehcho leaders discuss land claim and community safety
By Aastha Sethi, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Cabin Radio Premier R.J. Simpson met with Dehcho leaders in Yellowknife to discuss progress on negotiations and growing concerns about the territory’s drug crisis. The three-day Dehcho First Nations meeting at the Tree of Peace Friendship Centre was triggered by drug-related shootings in Fort Providence last month. Dehcho Grand Chief Herb Norwegian said this week’s discussion was organized to find solutions for drugs and violence affecting residents. “The trauma, the mental health stuff that’s going on in the communities, it seems to re-escalate,” Norwegian said. Noting that public safety remains a key priority for the territory, Simpson said there is a need for partnerships with Indigenous governments. The premier said the GNWT has taken steps to support law enforcement over the past year...
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Two found guilty of first-degree murder in death of OPP officer
CAYUGA, ON- Six and a half hours after the jury began deliberating two people were found guilty of first-degree murder in the death of an Ontario Provincial Police officer. A jury returned its verdicts for Randall McKenzie and Brandi Stewart-Sperry just after 9:00 p.m. on Thursday, about six-and-a-half hours after they began deliberations. Constable Greg Pierzchala was fatally shot on Dec. 27, 2022 while he was responding to what seemed to be a routine call about a vehicle in a ditch on Indian Line near Hagersville, Ont. Pierzchala was 28-years-old and had just learned that morning that he had successfully completed his probationary period with the OPP’s Haldimand County detachment. McKenzie and Stewart-Sperry were charged with first-degree murder in his death. Both pleaded not guilty. The trial began on March...
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Poilievre campaigning in Conservative-safe ridings as election nears
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre is campaigning in what polls suggest are Conservative-safe ridings today as election day approaches. Poilievre is set to begin his day in Saskatoon, where he will hold a press conference, before holding a rally in Nanoose Bay, B.C., in the evening. Recent polls suggest that ridings in both Saskatoon and the Nanaimo area, which includes Nanoose Bay, are leaning Conservative. Liberal Leader Mark Carney has a busy day in Ontario, beginning with a press conference and visiting a small business in Sault Ste. Marie, Ont. He is later set to participate in the virtual Assembly of First Nations forum, meet with community members in Georgetown, hold a meet and greet in Cambridge and hold a rally in London. Polls suggest that most ridings in Ontario are...
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Thousands gather in New Mexico for the largest powwow in North America
By Susan Montoya Bryan ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Thousands of people are gathering in New Mexico for a celebration showcasing Native American and Indigenous dancers, musicians and artisans from around the world. Billed by organizers as the largest powwow in North America, the annual Gathering of Nations festival kicks off Friday with a colorful procession of dancers spiraling into the center of an arena at the New Mexico state fairgrounds. Participants wear elaborate regalia adorned with jingling bells and dance to the tempo of rhythmic drumming. The event also features the crowning of Miss Indian World, as well as horse parades in which riders are judged on the craftsmanship of their intricately beaded adornments or feathered headdresses and how well they work with their horses. Powwow roots Powwows are a...
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‘We still need to use it’: Musician speaks of Dane-zaa’s growth on the heels of new single
By Ed Hitchins, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Energeticcity.ca CHARLIE LAKE, B.C. — From childhood, Garry Oker was enamoured with the sound of music. Oker, whose new single Tsuu Naa Yeh will debut on April 24th, the same day of the Reawakening of Our Language gathering in Fort St. John, spoke to Energeticcity.ca about his musical exploits. The title is a phrase from the Beaver language meaning “be kind.” “A long time ago I was told ‘your song is ahead of you,’” said Oker, a member of Doig River First Nation (DRFN). “So even with that context of thought, that I need to keep looking, it inspired me to continue searching for my song.” Oker’s first musical inspiration was his grandfather. Oker said he can remember playing alongside him, mimicking the...
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B.C. First Nation at UN calling for government help in battling toxic drug crisis
Members of the Tsilhqot’in Nation in British Columbia are at the United Nations headquarters in New York City calling for the provincial and Canadian governments to fund recovery beds and other supports in the battle against the toxic drug crisis. Chief Roger William with the Tsilhqot’in National Government says they’re asking for help to address the crisis in their own way, through culturally centred programming, improving access to treatment and recovery services, and expanding supportive housing. William says the basic needs of their members must be met in order to stop their “people from falling into using drugs.” The news conference comes one year after the Tsilhqot’in Nation declared a local state of emergency after a spike in deaths from toxic drug poisoning in its six member nations in central...
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Amanda Patrick discusses Running as Medicine and the Run for Reconciliation
By Laura Mushumanski, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Alberta Native News (ANNews) – “When I run, I feel like I fit in with the land, I don’t have to run fast. I can walk, I can stop, I can do what I want – nobody is judging me,” shared Amanada Patrick. Running as medicine has connected her to her roots. When engaging with Mother Earth and her teachings, it is a never-ending knowledge system of wealth that supports us in the longevity of good relations with ourselves and everyone around us. The spirit of Mother Earth she brings insight into everything we do. And for our Metis sister, Amanda Patrick, the clarity that Mother Earth brings is found when she is running outdoors. “My journey as an Indigenous person, the cultural...
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Local candidates’ roundtable focused on environment and First Nations’ issues
By David Briggs, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, BayToday.ca Last evening, April 23, candidates in the Nipissing-Timiskaming riding participated in a roundtable discussion focused on environmental and First Nations issues. Specifically, how to mediate climate change and how to remedy PFAS chemicals – also known as forever chemicals – in the region’s drinking water, were two main topics. Further, how to meaningfully consult with First Nations and what to do with nuclear waste rounded out the evening’s themes. The event was organized by Northwatch, an advocate for environmental protection and public participation in environmental decision-making in northeastern Ontario. About 25 people streamed into the basement gym at St. Andrews United Church at 399 Cassells Street to watch the event, which began at 6 p.m. with an opportunity to meet and talk...
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Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak Joina Canadian Delegation for the Pope Francis Funeral Services
Unceded Algonquin Territory, Ottawa – National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak will join the Canadian delegation, led by Governor General Mary Simon, to attend the funeral service of His Holiness Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday, April 21, at the age of 88. National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak will participate in the Canadian delegation to honour the legacy of Pope Francis and acknowledge his efforts to advance truth and reconciliation with First Nations in Canada. “It is important to recognize Pope Francis for his leadership within an institution resistant to progressive change,” said National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “His Holiness disrupted the status quo in a good way. On many issues, including the many harms and crimes inflicted by Catholic clergy on First Nations children in the Indian residential school’ system,...
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Aaron Gunn MIA after Vancouver Island riding debate suddenly cancelled
By Rochelle Baker, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Canada’s National Observer It turns out the biggest question at the all-candidates debate in Campbell River Tuesday night was if it would go ahead at all. It didn’t. The event, organized by the board of the Campbell River & District Chamber of Commerce and the sponsored by the Vancouver Island Real Estate Board, was officially cancelled on Facebook as people were already filing into the Tidemark Theatre when the venue’s doors opened at 4 p.m. However, all the main-party candidates in the North Island-Powell River riding, minus one, arrived to speak to the crowd gathered in the courtyard outside. NDP candidate Tanille Johnston, Liberal Jennifer Lash, Green Jessica Wegg and Independent Glen Staples all made short speeches and offered to stay to take...
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Man arrested after vehicle fires and shots fired at Fort Nelson FirstNation
By Ed Hitchins, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Energeticcity.ca FORT NELSON, B.C. — A 40-year-old man is under arrest after a series of incidents at Fort Nelson First Nation (FNFN) on Wednesday evening. A press release from Northern Rockies RCMP states a man was asked to leave a FNFN community meeting on April 23rd around 7:10 p.m. for reportedly being disruptive and appearing to be under the influence of drugs. Officers say the man went to a nearby gas station, where he allegedly announced his intentions to light cars on fire. Shortly thereafter, a vehicle owned by FNFN was found to be ablaze in the community hall parking lot, with the flames spreading to a second vehicle. Police received a call at approximately 7:45 p.m. about shots being allegedly fired at...
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Ohsweken man faces impaired driving charge after single-vehicle rollover on First Line
OHSWEKEN, SIX NATIONS OF THE GRAND RIVER-A 45-year-old Ohsweken man is facing impaired driving and dangerous driving charges following a single-vehicle rollover on First Line. Six Nations Police and Emergency Medical Services responded to a crash at about 5:47 p.m. on April 16. Officers arrived at the scene and saw the vehicle upside down. A lone male driver exited the car, according to a Six Nations Police news release. Police said the driver showed signs of impairment, and witnesses reported the vehicle was driven erratically before the collision. The driver was assessed by EMS at the scene and did not report any injuries. Police have charged Justin White with impaired operation, alcohol per se offence, and dangerous driving. His vehicle was impounded for seven days, and his driver’s licence was...
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Hudson’s Bay auction of items including 1670 royal charter can go ahead, judge rules
By Tara Deschamps An Ontario judge says he will give Hudson’s Bay permission to start preparing to auction off its art, artifacts and the 355-year-old royal charter that launched the company. Superior Court judge Peter Osborne says he feels the auction is reasonable because it balances the needs of Hudson’s Bay with its creditors and others stakeholders. Hudson’s Bay argued the auction to be run by Heffel Gallery Ltd. would ensure its 1,700 pieces of art and more than 2,700 artifacts get the care, consideration and expertise they need. The company will return to court at a later date with Heffel to outline how the auction would work but today’s approval offers a chance for items to be withdrawn, if they are deemed to have historical or cultural significance making...
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