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Conclusion of the October 2024 QMFNB Election Appeal Process
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Tour of the Caribou
Qalipu First Nation member students aged 14–18 have the opportunity to join the pilgrimage to Beaumont-Hamel alongside fellow students, veterans, Legionnaires, and government officials.
To apply, submit an essay, poem, drawing, or poster showcasing what this opportunity would mean to you. The deadline to apply is March 17.
Message from Chief Jenny – March 7, 2025
The theme of International Women’s Day for 2025 is “Accelerate Action.” This year’s theme highlights the urgent need to drive gender equality through bold, decisive actions rather than slow progress.
As Chief, I often hear comments about being the first female Chief of Qalipu First Nation. While this is something I am extremely proud of, I try my best to focus on being the right person for the role. One of my favourite quotes makes me reflect on my position and its significance:
“I stand on the sacrifices of a million women before me, thinking what can I do to make this mountain taller, so the women after me can see farther.”
I am humbled and grateful for the women who paved the way for me.
I grew up in a family that relied heavily on our skills and knowledge of our surroundings to meet our needs. My parents built our home; we had gardens, hunted, fished, repaired our own vehicles, and even did our own sewing. As a child, I saw my mother carry wood, bake bread, plaster walls, and, to this day, catch the biggest fish. It wasn’t until I was older that I realized gender roles didn’t really exist in our household. If something needed to be done, you did it—there was no such thing as “that’s only for boys or girls.” I have come to deeply appreciate my upbringing for this reason. The many teachings my parents shared with me equipped me to challenge society’s views on gender roles and eventually pursue non-traditional work environments such as skilled trades—and now, my role as your Chief.
With the recent resignation of our Premier, many of us are wondering what’s next. Since Confederation, and even before that, the Indigenous people of this province have had a complex relationship with all levels of government. Indigenous governments are seeing more diversity around our council tables, and we hope for the same in our provincial and federal governments. Diversity brings a variety of perspectives and helps us serve our communities more effectively. Our next Premier and Prime Minister must stand for and support diversity and inclusion. We cannot go back.
Our own council has seen an increase in female representation with each term, and we have worked collectively to update policies to ensure a safe and inclusive work environment for all.
Each of us knows a female leader—she may be your mother, your auntie, your daughter, or your government representative. In our community, we are proud of the women who have taken on roles such as Senators, Doctors, Lawyers, Teachers, Entrepreneurs, and, most importantly, carriers of our traditional knowledge. When we support one another, we build strong leaders for tomorrow.
On this International Women’s Day, let us all uplift the women who are breaking down barriers and paving the way for our future—and, most importantly, those who have yet to realize their strength. Let us stand tall and proud on the shoulders of our ancestors.
Here’s to strong Mi’kmaq women; may we know them, may we be them, may we raise them.
Relevant Links:
Women’s History in Canada – Government of Canada
Marking International Women’s Day – Statistics Canada
Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation and Parks Canada Sign MOU
Parks Canada is happy to announce the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding with Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation!
Recently, representatives from Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation, along with Parks Canada’s Atlantic Executive Director and the Field Unit Superintendents for both the Newfoundland East Field Unit and the Western Newfoundland and Labrador Field Unit, gathered in St. John’s to formalize the agreement. This renewed partnership reinforces our ongoing commitment to collaboration and shared goals. The new agreement paves the way for exciting joint projects, and we are eager to explore the opportunities ahead!
Service Members Agreement Update
This is an update for members regarding the Service Members Agreement reached on December 22, 2022, between the Government of Canada, Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation, and the Federation of Newfoundland Indians.
The Agreement establishes criteria for accepting former and current members of the Canadian Armed Forces and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police as Founding Members of Qalipu First Nation. Acceptance is based on the special place of honour these new members hold in Mi’kmaq culture due to their service as protectors of Canada and their communities.
Qalipu First Nation has been, and continues to be, committed to completing the process outlined in this Agreement as soon as possible. We are urging our partners to the Service Members Agreement to make every effort to allow for the immediate acceptance of the 583 members who have been recommended by the Enrolment Committee for approval as Founding Members of Qalipu First Nation.
Both past and current QFN Chiefs and Councils have consistently expressed their desire to complete the enrolment process as quickly as possible and have been working diligently on this matter.
“As Mi’kmaq people, we have always honoured those who dedicate their lives to protecting our communities. We remain steadfast in our commitment to seeing this process through and urge our partners to act swiftly so that the 583 recommended members can be accepted without further delay,” states QFN Chief Jenny Brake.
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Meeting of Chief and Council
The next meeting of Chief and Council is scheduled for Saturday, March 22, at 10:00 a.m. in the Qalipu Community Room, 1 Church Street.
Registration is required to attend the meeting. The deadline to register is Friday, March 14, 2025, at 12:30 p.m.
Please note that delays in the meeting start time can be expected. We kindly ask for your patience and understanding.
Members wishing to attend can contact Natasha or Allyson by telephone or email:
• Natasha: 709-634-6895 | Email: nlavers@qalipu.ca
• Allyson: 709-634-5111 | Email: arobbins@qalipu.ca
Members can view the meeting’s livestream by logging in to their KINU membership profile: https://mala.qalipu.ca/ginu/login.aspx
Qalipu First Nation Seeking Members-at-Large for Standing Committees
Qalipu First Nation is seeking members-at-large to serve on the following Standing Committees, which consist of Qalipu First Nation staff, Ward Councilors, and members at large:
- Finance and Audit Committee
The Finance and Audit Committee is responsible for overseeing the financial health of Qalipu First Nation. This includes reviewing financial statements, ensuring proper financial controls are in place, and providing advice on budgetary planning and expenditure. The committee works to ensure accountability and transparency in financial operations and supports the development of sound fiscal policies and practices. - Operations Committee
The Operations Committee oversees the implementation of operational plans, ensuring that day-to-day activities and processes are effectively aligned with the needs of the community. The committee focuses on improving operational efficiency and the successful execution of the Nation’s programs and services. - Health and Housing Committee
The Health and Housing Committee is dedicated to improving the health, wellness, and housing needs of members, families, and the community. The committee advises on matters related to Non-Insured Health Benefits, Mental Wellness, Child, Youth, and Family Services, and Housing. By focusing on health and social wellness, the committee aims to address key issues affecting community members, enhance access to healthcare services, and advocate for affordable and safe housing solutions. - Education and Training Committee
The Education and Training Committee focuses on supporting educational opportunities and workforce development for Qalipu First Nation members. This includes providing guidance on funding programs, scholarships, skills training, and partnerships with educational institutions to enhance lifelong learning and employment outcomes.
- Environment and Natural Resources Committee
The Environment and Natural Resources Committee is responsible for advising on matters related to the stewardship and sustainable management of natural resources. The committee works to protect traditional lands, waterways, and wildlife, ensuring that environmental practices align with Mi’kmaq values and community interests. A key focus is the preservation of the natural ecosystem for future generations, promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Each committee meets at least four times per year to discuss and guide decisions that impact our community. This is a valuable opportunity to share your skills, knowledge, and perspectives to support the growth and success of our Nation.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Must be a member of Qalipu First Nation.
- Should possess relevant skills, experience, or interest related to the committee’s focus.
- Must have previous experience serving on a board or committee for a non-profit or government organization (preferred, but not mandatory).
- Must be available to attend quarterly meetings (virtual or in-person).
- Must undergo a Criminal Record Check.
- Must sign a Code of Confidentiality and Code of Conduct.
- Must maintain engagement and involvement between meetings by responding to committee emails and staying actively engaged in ongoing committee discussions.
- Must perform their role in an objective, fair, and impartial manner.
- Must work collaboratively with Committee members to ensure team-based and positive outcomes to advance the objectives of the Band.
- Must work on a volunteer basis, with travel and per diems provided within Qalipu Ward locations.
To Apply:
Please submit the following:
- A cover letter indicating the committee you are interested in and highlighting your relevant skills, experience, or qualifications.
- A current resume.
Deadline for Applications: March 21, 2025, at 4:00 PM
Submit Applications to: Allyson Robbins at arobbins@qalipu.ca
Please Note: Qalipu First Nation reserves the right to refuse any and all applications.
For more information, please contact Allyson Robbins at arobbins@qalipu.ca.
We encourage all interested members to apply and thank you for your willingness to support our community.
Wela’lin
Announcement of Candidates – By-Election for St. George’s Ward Councilor
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Message from Chief Jenny – February 28, 2025
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/
Notice of Call for Nominations- Band Council By-Election
Opening Monday, February 24 at 9:00am and closing on Tuesday, March 4, 2025 at 2:00pm
In accordance with the Custom Rules Governing Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band Elections, nominations are invited for the position of St. George’s Ward Councilor.
Nomination forms are available for printable download here or below at;
- By contacting the Electoral Officer, Reisha Knott, at 709-486-2427 or by email at rknott@qalipu.ca
- Pick up at any Qalipu First Nation Band Office (St. George’s, Ktaqmkuk Mi’kmaw Museum, 183 Main Street)
Nomination papers are to be submitted with a non-refundable fee of $25.00 in the form of money order, band draft, cheque or cash.
Completed nomination forms and fee must be returned and in the possession of:
Qalipu First Nation
3 Church Street
Corner Brook, NL A2H 2Z4
No later than 2:00pm on the 4th day of March 2024.
and will be considered filed with the Electoral Officer for the purpose of the Band By-Election during the voting window, opening March 12 at 8:00am through to March 26 at 8:00pm.
Members of the St. George’s electoral ward can view the Electoral Voters List via the Qalipu.ca Election Hub to confirm their eligibility of candidacy or;
- By contacting the Electoral Officer, Reisha Knott, at 709-486-2427 or by email at rknott@qalipu.ca
- Walk-in at any Qalipu First Nation Band Office (St. George’s, Ktaqmkuk Mi’kmaw Museum, 183 Main Street)
Reisha Knott
Electoral Officer
E: rknott@qalipu.ca
T: 709-486-2427