As industry development in our province advances in various areas, we as a First Nation have opportunities to engage with the developers to best guide decisions that will affect our next seven generations.  While some see Indigenous participation as sign of approval of harmful environment process, it’s the opposite. We feel a responsibility to take seats at these decision-making tables that we have far too long been excluded from to ensure Indigenous knowledge and values shape innovation in ways that lead to responsible developments.

Economic Reconciliation is giving Indigenous people the opportunity to participate in employment and training to advance our communities. It allows us to be included and valued not just as employees but as employers and key stakeholders in our economy.

In a time when government is prioritizing diversity and inclusion in their procurement policies, we see a rise in something that is known as “Rent a Feather.”  This term is used when a non-indigenous company exploits an Indigenous person to make them a “partner” when procurement policies give priority to businesses that have a minimum 51% Indigenous ownership.

For generations, Indigenous people seeking employment were most often discriminated against. Now that governments have finally implemented mechanisms to balance the scales to allow those who have been victims of oppression the ability to participate, we see non-indigenous people finding ways to by-pass these strategies to take opportunities from those that for far too long, have had none.

Indigenous and non-Indigenous people can work together as business partners, but this must be meaningful, mutually respectful, and beneficial. To take advantage of someone in this way is shameful and we must educate our youth to safeguard them so they can avoid this type of harm.

As Indigenous people, we all have a responsibility to honour our heritage, and this means that we must stand up to injustices that continue to oppress and take advantage of vulnerable populations.

Qalipu First Nation understands the frustration of those that have been impacted by the effects of colonialism and the Indian Act. There are few that have not been affected, including my own family. We will work to advocate for our people and for their right to participate in meaningful Economic Reconciliation. We will continue to support our members through our education efforts and remind all levels of government and industry of the importance of setting strict guidelines for respectful inclusion and opportunities for the advancement of our future leaders.

Relevant Link: Qalipu Business Network,  http://qbn.qalipu.ca/

As we ease into the second week of February and winter really settles in, we see an uprise in cases of the cold and flu. After a global pandemic, we have all adjusted to new ways of self-care during this time of year, some of us still wear masks, get our flu shots, take extra vitamins and sanitize our hands, but no matter how hard we try to protect ourselves, sometimes we can’t escape it.

Like many, last week I had the displeasure of contracting a nasty flu virus.  That’s why my message is coming to you on a Monday instead of Friday.

I recently heard on CBC radio that the third Monday of January is known as Blue Monday. Apparently back in 2005, a U.K. Travel company, initiated this to boost travel sales. Regardless of the origin, the reality of how January affects some of us coming off the expense of Christmas, having less daylight and enduring our cold temperatures can keep some of us inside, isolated and feeling less like ourselves.

This January was difficult for me and those around me, there was loss of loved ones and sickness, making the term Blue Monday really resonate.

My intention of writing these messages comes from my desire to stay connected, not only share information, but to be open about things that affect us all.

I believe that to be strong as a community, we must take care of each other, to be empathetic and kind. This means checking in on a friend, sharing a meal, and being good medicine for one another.

When we speak of our youth, we often say, “It takes a village”, well, we all need that sense of community to feel supported and valued. Our drum groups, workshops and various gatherings allow us opportunities to come together and thrive in our culture. Our common thirst for belonging and knowledge is what binds us.

I wish you all the physical, mental and emotional strength to be healthy through our coldest season and beyond and thank you for your contributions to “our village”. If you are struggling, we are here for you. If you or someone you know is in need of mental health services, please reach out to our Health and Wellness team. A simple phone call can make all the difference.

Take care,

Chief Jenny