We have been closely monitoring news of the devastating wildfires in Fort MacMurray. Our hearts go out to all the residents, families, and workers who are affected by this disaster, and we hope and pray for them as evacuations occur. It is difficult and tragic for people to flee from the place they work and call home, not knowing when they will return, or what they will be returning to. We will pray for the safety of everyone involved, and hope for a quick resolution that sees everyone returning home soon.

For members that are seeking assistance, please remember that you have access to mental health counseling services through your non-insured health benefits. Please contact Susan Bryan, Mental Wellness Navigator by calling 709-679-2238. Members can also contact the housing division to navigate additional emergency relief support by calling Housing Development Officers, Jason Park 709-634-0411, or Paul Brake 709-634-5472.

Kwe’

It seems like every year, natural disasters and states of emergency are increasing. There are so many factors that contribute to natural disasters, but the most impactful is global warming. Our environment is fragile and mother earth has her ways of telling us when we are not taking care of her.

All over the world there is an urgency to move toward renewable energy to combat the effects of global warming. We have heard many opinions from community members, industry partners, other First Nations, as well as all levels of government. The common theme is that we all want a greener future for our next seven generations. As we continue to wade through the options, we should all consider how we voice our opinions. We cannot find pathways forward by disrespecting each other’s views. It is important to remember that not all information sources are reliable, and we must all do our best to find trustworthy information based in fact.

There can be no progress without impact. We need to make conscious decisions that are based on fact, not fear. We need to look at the broader pictures and weigh the impacts and outcomes. It is imperative that we do our part to reduce carbon emissions and create sustainable energy solutions.

As Indigenous people, we have an opportunity for economic reconciliation meaning we can participate in all aspects of developments as key stakeholders. We can invest in ourselves by building capacity through education and training, advocating for advancements in employment as well as planning community development for long term sustainable economic growth.

 

Wela’lin,
Chief Jenny Brake

As we approach Mother’s Day, we are filled with gratitude and admiration for the mothers, grandmothers and all those who identify as women that play a pivotal role in shaping our communities. It is a time to honor and celebrate their remarkable strength, resilience, and nurturing spirits.

In our culture, matriarchy plays a central role. Women are life-givers, caretakers and decision-makers. They hold positions of leadership and authority, not as a deviation from tradition but as a continuation of it. Our matriarchs carry the knowledge of our ancestors and pass it along to future generations with grace and wisdom.

Water embodies life, and women are our water carriers. Just as water sustains the earth, women nourish our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

On behalf of Qalipu First Nation, we wish all mothers, grandmothers, and maternal figures a Happy Mother’s Day.

This week, on April 22, we celebrated Earth Day—a day dedicated to reflecting on our responsibility to protect Mother Earth. For many of us, Earth Day is not confined to a single day but is an ongoing commitment. We extend our gratitude to all who share in this care and understanding.

It was moving to learn about a Water Ceremony organized by community members in Bay St. George to commemorate this occasion. Despite adverse weather conditions with snowfall and strong winds at Black Bank near St. George’s, they gathered to honor and pray for this precious resource.

All over the world, there is a growing consensus in favor of renewable energy options like wind energy and green hydrogen. While we are still learning and trying to understand what this means for us here in Newfoundland, we know that we must emphasize the importance of environmental stewardship and building strong relationships. These projects are not solely about financial gains; they encompass people, land stewardship, the environment, and the well-being of future generations.

Projects such as Atlas Salt and Project Nujio’qonik, recently received approval through the provinces rigorous Environmental Impact Assessment process. These projects represent unprecedented opportunities and can only be successful by listening to the voices of the residents, Indigenous and non-Indigenous.

We want to assure our membership that we hear your feedback and appreciate the diverse perspectives within our communities. We are committed to understanding and addressing your concerns and work collectively with municipalities, local groups and industry partners to ensure our voices are heard and respected.

From the moment we wake up each day, we all have an impact on our environment. Together, we will navigate these challenges and continue to strive for a sustainable and prosperous future.

 

Wela’lin,

 

Chief Jenny Brake

Kwe’,

I want to offer my sincere condolences to the immediate family and loved ones of Trevor Childs and Nicholas Skinner.  News of the tragic loss of these two community members from Lark Harbour after their boat capsized this past weekend has left a family grieving a loss that spans two generations.

Like many communities, the fishery represents both a livelihood, and too often, tragedy.

I also want to take the time to acknowledge the grief of an entire community.   My grandmother was born and raised in this community.  I can say from experience that residents are more than neighbours, they are a family, and this loss is being felt by everyone.

I would encourage our Band members to access mental health services through your Non-Insured Health Benefits.  This is a service that does not require payment upfront, and there is a list of providers to choose from.  If you require further assistance, please contact us.

I pray for the safety of our fisher people, many of whom are now on the water following the recent opening of the fishing season.  We will ask the Creator to watch over you and keep you safe.

 

Wela’lin,

Chief Jenny Brake

Kwe’,

Last night I was honoured to meet the inspirational Phyllis (Jack) Webstad, founder and ambassador of the Orange Shirt Society.  Many of us are familiar with Orange Shirt Day, and the sad story of a little girl whose new orange shirt was taken away from her on her first day of Indian Residential School.  This is Phyllis’ story; she was that little girl.

At only 6 years old, Phyllis recounted that in that strange and lonely place, she felt that her life did not matter.  She didn’t understand why she was there, and why she couldn’t go home.  In times of loneliness and despair, she felt there was nobody to comfort her, and the little children turned to one another for support.

It is one thing for us to know of stories like this and to be aware of the tragic legacy of the Indian Residential School.  It is quite another to meet Phyllis and take on this experience from a survivor.  These words last night touched me deeply, I thought of my young girls at home safe in their beds. It is unfathomable to think of this happening to any child.

Phyllis’ message of love and hope, that Every Child Matters, is true blessing arising from this difficult experience that she experienced along with many, many others.

On behalf of the Qalipu First Nation, I want to express my sincere thanks to the Newfoundland Aboriginal Women’s Network along with partners the People of the Dawn Indigenous Friendship Centre, the Mi’kmaw Cultural Foundation and Ulnooweg, who brought Phyllis to Newfoundland.

I also want to give thanks to Judy Falle, a long-time employee of the Education and Training Department who wrote a children’s Indigenous book that deals with Truth and Reconciliation from a local perspective, Papa and His Drum.  Throughout that journey of writing, researching and publication, Judy reached out to Phyllis for guidance and support.  From that connection, a friendship was forged that ultimately led Phyllis to journey from coast to coast from British Columbia to Newfoundland for the very first time.

We wish Phyllis energy and strength on her journey sharing her message here in Newfoundland, on a four-and-a-half-hour time difference that must be very challenging, and telling a story that brings back her pain again and again.  This sacrifice she makes in sharing her story is to the benefit of all who meet her.

If you’re in or around the Stephenville area, I encourage you to head over to the Lion’s Club tonight from 6-8 where Phyllis will be on hand to meet and speak with community members.

 

Wela’lin,

Chief Jenny Brake

 

Kwe’,

April 2 was the 14^th annual World Autism Awareness and Acceptance Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness of the issues faced by autistics.

I feel honoured to have many friends within the autism community. Celebrating these friendships and relationships is incredibly important to me.

We learn so much from each other when we take the time to listen. I am grateful to the Autism Society of NL as they keep us informed and equipped with current and appropriate language and help us better understand how we can best advocate for people who may need our supportive voices. Education is key and leads to better understanding. We all have a responsibility to ensure all members of our communities are accepted and valued.

I invite you to take the time this week to promote awareness, acceptance, and inclusion in recognition of autistics as well as those who love and support them.   Every one of us is unique and has perspectives, gifts, skills, and abilities that shape the beautiful mosaic of our communities.

Did you know that there are supports available to Indigenous autistic children?

Jordan’s Principle can provide funding for health, education and social needs that may not be covered by our provincial health care plan, NIHB or private insurance.

For example, the assessment to confirm diagnosis, access to respite or alternate childcare, help with travel to medical appointments, sensory items, speech services, or help with accessing social activities recommended by a health care provider are all available under Jordan’s Principle.

It’s important to note that even children who do not have status cards are eligible to receive funding if their parent is a status card holder.

I encourage you to share this information in your community and help make sure that folks are aware.  Our Jordan’s Principle Service Coordinator, Brigitte, can be reached at 709-634-2234 or by emailing brigitte.white@qalipu.ca

 

Wela’lin

Interim Chief Jenny Brake

Dear Members of the Qalipu First Nation,

I hope this message finds you all in good health and spirits. It is with great honour and sincere appreciation that I write to you today as the Interim Chief of the Qalipu First Nation. On behalf of our entire community, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude and admiration to Chief Mi’sel Joe for his remarkable 31 years of dedicated service as Chief of the Miawpukek First Nation.

I had the privilege of joining Chief Joe for dinner as he marked his final day as Chief. On January 17, exactly 31 years to the day since beginning his journey as the leader of Miawpukek First Nation, we shared a meal and reflected on his incredible journey and the path ahead for our respective communities.

Chief Joe has been a mentor to me and so many others throughout the years, always willing to share his wisdom and provide invaluable guidance. I am profoundly grateful to him for his unwavering support and encouragement, and I look forward to continued friendship as Chief Joe embarks on this new chapter in his life.  Please join me in wishing him the best as he enjoys more time with his beloved family and his passion for the outdoors.

We look forward to working with the new Chief and Council of Miawpukek First Nation and we wish Chief Joe the very best in this new phase of his life.