Elders Roles

Book reviews of: 2000 Years of Mayan Literature by Dennis Tedlock. Child of the Fire: Mary Edmonia Lewis and the Problem of Art History’s Black and Indian Subject by Kirsten Pai Buick. Conservation Refugees: The Hundred-Year Conflict between Global Conservation and Native Peoples by Mark Dowie. Delaware Tribe in a Cherokee Nation by Brice Obermeyer. Demons, Saints, & Patriots: Catholic Visions of Indian America through The Indian Sentinel (1902–1962) by Mark Clatterbuck.

Comments on the cultural relevance and meaningfulness of Elder Teachings on the identities of First Nations students. Chapter from Issues Affecting Rural Communities (II) edited by J.C. Montgomery and A.D. Kitchenham.

Debate over the most effective approach to First Nation postsecondary education programs. Asserts that Elder participation as role models and guest teachers add value.

Contends that Elders' participation not only contributes to student success by providing cultural and spiritual guidance to students, but also benefits the community, faculty and institutions by increasing cultural knowledge, sensitivity and competence.

Study conducted through interviews indicated that the role of cultural conservator was carried out through storytelling, support of children taking part in cultural activities and transference of traditions and values.

Defines inquiry learning and looks at the steps of traditional education in First Nations societies.

Traces Pete Standing Alone's last round up of his horses and how his life has changed in the last twenty years. Accompanying material: An Integrated Educator's Guide. Duration:18:02.

RCAP 142 contains files for a sitting of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples at the President Hotel, Sudbury, Ontario, on Monday, May 31, 1993. The file contains a variety of presentations by community Elders.

RCAP 163a contains a part of a transcript of a portion of a sitting of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples in Fredericton, New Brunswick. This part includes presentations, questions and a discussion by the assembled youth, who attend both high school and university, and the Commissioners at a Youth Circle.

RCAP 28 contains files from the sitting of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples at the Thomas Cheechoo Memorial Centre, Moose Factory, Ontario. This sitting of the Commission contains verbal and written presentations primarily by elders in the Moose Factory area relating to education, the Indian Act, Aboriginal women's rights, self-government. Each submission can be viewed individually on this site.

RCAP 45 contains files from the sitting of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples in Stoney Creek, British Columbia. This sitting of the Commission contains presentations relating to education, housing, land claims, self-government, alcohol and drug abuse issues, and elder and women's issues. Each presentation can be viewed individually on this site.

The file contains a discussion between Commissioners Rene Dussault, Mary Sillett, and Elders Dominic Eshkakogan, Mary Lou Fox, and Rita Corbiere. Issues covered in the discussion include language issues, the Chartered Lands Act, traditional healing, and diabetes. The discussion is in response to the earlier presentations during this sitting of the Commission by these three Elders. The three Elders' presentations are available for viewing on this site.

The file contains the presentation of a discussion paper by Elder Margaret Harris. Harris discusses her experiences as a foster parent and the importance of listening to the teachings of one's elders.

File contains an individual presentation by Angela Andrew, teacher at the local community college, discussing Innu culture and education. She states that elders should be utilized more in teaching traditional skills to Innu youth, but because they do not have the proper teaching certification, they are not allowed to teach. She calls on the Commission to ease teacher education restrictions with elders to ensure traditional Innu skills and traditions are passed on. Following the presentation are brief remarks by Rene Dussault, Co-Chair.

File contains a presentation by Chief Norm Wesley stating that Aboriginal peoples are bound together by a sense of togetherness, family, equality and sharing, which was given to Aboriginals by the Creator. Elders must work with youth to give them a sense of the past and parents must instill in their children respect for others and themselves.

File contains an individual presentation by Emile Nakogee stating that Aboriginal peoples should "conserve our lifestyles, our culture, our languages and follow what our Creator created for us within the lands." He is concerned for the problems facing Aboriginal youth and states that parents need to involve elders and the community in raising children.

File contains an individual presentation by Frances Ebersbach, a Metis elder in her community who assists residents in a variety of ways. Ebersbach is frustrated by policies of government departments that work against Aboriginal people and wants to draw attention to the Commission the unfairness of treatment. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains an individual presentation by George Smith, via translator, that focuses on Aboriginal self-government from the perspective of elders. Smith states that elders were consulted in all facets of life pre-contact but with the Canadian government's policies over the years, elder input and influence have been irrelevant. He calls for the government to consult with elders during self-government negotiations. Smith also briefly discusses band relocation, natural resources, and the effects of residential schools. Following the presentation is a discussion with Commissioner Allan Blakeney.

File contains a presentation by Jack Penashue who speaks from the perspective of Innu youth. He learned very little about his culture in high school and feels it should be taught by Aboriginal teachers throughout all grades. He feels elders are very important in passing down traditions and stories and they should be utilized by the education system as well.

File contains an individual presentation by Peter Kelly that touches on a number of subjects that include the influence of elders, the drum and its meaning, legends and oral history, the Charlottetown Accord and the Indian Act. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains an individual presentation by Simeo Rich expressing sadness that elders were not consulted when the Churchill Falls Hydro Project was being planned in the 1960s. The destruction of hunting lands has been devastating to the Innu and Rich hopes that future self-government will eliminate the federal government's control over the Innu.

File contains an individual presentation by Sinclair Cheechoo of the Moose Factory First Nation. He discusses the history of the difficult relationship between Aboriginal peoples and the Canadian government and society. Cheechoo also briefly mentions issues such as education and elders' influence on youth.

This file contains opening remarks by Lillian McGregor, Moderator and elder of the community of Birch Island, Ontario. Rene Dussault and Viola Robinson explain the purpose and goals of the Commission.

File contains opening remarks by Tom MacCagno who provides the Commission with a history of the exploration and establishment of Lac La Biche. He notes the involvement of Metis people when Father Albert Lacombe arrived in 1852. MacCagno says that Portage La Biche, forerunner of Lac La Biche, is a Canadian national historic site but the government chooses not to designate and restore the site. MacCagno also comments on aboriginal language policy and how elders must pass down the language and traditions of Aboriginal peoples to the youth.

File contains a presentation by Alfreda Trudeau that reiterates many of the concerns expressed by Harvey Thunderchild, the previous speaker. She describes specific programs aimed at treating various problems, with the Native Interpersonal Skills Program being the most successful. Trudeau calls for more Aboriginal people to be working in the correctional system and particularly sees the role of elders is very important. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Andrew Wesley focusing on issues relating to the placement of Aboriginal children in foster homes, the role of elders in Aboriginal children and youths' lives and the Euro-centric view of Canadian Aboriginal history taught in schools. A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

The file contains a presentation by Angelina Jones. Jones discusses the importance of education, the need for self-healing before self-determination or self-sufficiency can be achieved, social problems, addictions, and Elder abuse on reserves. Following the presentation Commissioner Mary Sillett thanks Jones and comments on her presentation.

File contains a presentation by Chief Norm Wesley of the Moose Cree First Nation provides a brief history of the Moose Factory area, mentioning in particular the fur trade and the Hudson's Bay Company. Wesley states that Aboriginal peoples can't go back to their original way of life and calls upon the Elders in the community to keep the traditional ways alive by sharing their knowledge with the youth.

File contains a presentation by Chief Robert Charlie and Edward John focusing on substandard housing, land claims and the role of Elders, all relating to their First Nations. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Chief Robert Michell, spokesman for the elders of Stellat'en First Nation, focusing on the diminishing role of elders in his community. He states this is due to the government programs and policies that are in place. The Elders wish to be involved in the community again and Michell requests a meeting between the Elders and Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Dawna LeBlanc expressing concern for the acceleratred rate at which Aboriginal languages are becoming extinct. The death of community elders plays a large part in the elimination of languages today. She states that "language has a direct bearing on how we see ourselves as a people and our role in self-government, on land claims and our claim to a distinct society." Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Frank Bruyere relating to education and the history of Aboriginal peoples in Canada. He offers numerous recommendations, including a review done by Aboriginal educators of all educational materials in publicly funded schools used to teach Aboriginal history and eliminating all materials deemed to be inaccurate or offensive to Aboriginal people; and making funds available for Aboriginal friendship centres to develop materials for use in working with local industries, business and institutions in the areas of race relations and employment equity.

The file contains a presentation by Executive Director Roy Fabian of the Hay River Treatment Centre. Fabian discusses cultural oppression in Dene history, and the healing process which is neccessary to treat its effects. Fabian stresses the need for the Dene to listen to the Elders and practice their teachings. Fabian also discusses his views on the land claims process, and how cultural oppression has lead to social issues such as child abuse, family violence, and housing problems. Fabian also elaborates what he sees as the need for Aboriginal individuals to start healing themselves.

This file contains a presentation by Jeff Loenen, Deloras Huff and James Mackay relating to the Native Brotherhood of the Edmonton Maximum Security Institution. The Native Brotherhood is incorporated presently under the Societies Act in Alberta as a not-for-profit organization whose objectives are to promote native culture and spirituality at the Institution. The group offers sweat lodge ceremonies, drumming ceremonies, elders' meetings and family support groups. But with the recent change in status of the Institution from medium to maximum security, a number of programs have been cut.

The file contains a presentation by Jim MacLatchie and Lisa Allagaier, John Howard Society of Canada. MacLatchie and Allagaier discuss the composition, mandate, and work of the society with Canada's prison population and particularly with respect to Aboriginal prisoners. They discuss the importance of establishing Aboriginal representation amongst prison staff, and particularly the important role of Elders in the penal environment. Following the presentation the assembled Commissioners thank the presenters and comment on the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Margo Vermillion, a Fort Chipewyan resident who works as co-ordinator of a temporary elders care unit in the community. Vermillion discusses seniors issues in the community, particularly in terms of long-term care. She discusses the need for such a facility in the community itself, and the detrimental effects of removing seniors from their home community for long-term care. Following the presentation is a discussion between Vermillion and Commissioners Blakeney and Chartrand on senior's issues.

This file contains a presentation by Marie Mumford, Sandra Laronde and Elaine Bomberry relating to Aboriginal people in Canada involved in the arts and culture. A number of Aboriginal organizations and schools involved in art, dance, theater and music exist in Canada and most could benefit from government funding. Some students who cannot afford to pay tuition are sometimes funded by their First Nations or through family and relatives, but the presenters feel that Aboriginal art and culture would thrive if more financial assistance was available for students.

The file contains a presentation by Mary Lou Fox. Fox, an Ojibwa Elder from the West Bay First Nation, discusses residential schools impact and inter-generational legacy on communities, language issues and their relation to identity; the lack of educational assistance and direction needed for community level language instruction, a cross-Canada Elder's conference on language issues to be held at Manitoulin Island, the need for full time interpreters in some hospitals, and access to justice services in Aboriginal languages.

File contains a presentation by Paul Gull expressing frustration with the lack of funding for Waswanipi School and its programs. Gull calls upon the Commmission to ensure that programs such as the elder-student mentor program, Cree immersion and residential school survivor support groups continue. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners and a previous speaker, Peter Gull.

The file contains a presentation on by President Rita Arey of the Northwest Territories Status of Women organization, closing remarks and a closing prayer. President Arey presents on her organization's work on behalf of women in the Northwest Territories, and specifically the challenges facing Aboriginal women in the Northwest Territories.

File contains a presentation by Seeth Seethram, the only non-Caucasian president of any publicly funded educational institution in Canada. He speaks on a range of subjects, including land claims, the Indian Act, the "erosion" of Aboriginal culture and language, and the role of elders in education. A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Sheilagh Chief of the Southern Ontario Metis and Aboriginal Association discussing the role of elders in community politics. She is also concerned with funding for adult education. She introduces the next speaker, Joe Major.

File contains presentations by Mary John Sr., Ernie John, Celina John and Scott McIntosh focusing on working with the Aboriginal youth of the Stoney Creek area in teaching traditions and folklore. The Society has also attempted to encourage economic development with trapping and ranching on the First Nations but has encountered roadblocks due to a lack of funding from the federal government. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

The file contains a presentation by the Honourable Richard Nerysoo, Minister of Education, Culture and Employment, Government of the Northwest Territories.

File contains a presentation by Wilson Okeymaw, executive director of an additions facility on Ermineskin First Nation. He addresses the problem of addictions among Canada's Aboriginal peoples and speaks of his own struggle with alcohol. Following the presentation is a brief question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

This file contains recommendations by Nelson Mayer, Vice-President, United Native Nations. Mayer compiled four reports from the four workshop groupings from the previous day's session (7 June 1993) and labelled the reports Ownership, Governments, Community and Resources. Mayer offers numerous recommendations under each report.

This file contains remarks by Fred Yellow Old Woman, speaking as a concerned parent and grandfather. He states: "Maybe we, as a First Nation, should unite together on cultural planes as a way of overcoming limitations in funding and maybe entrenchments of the holistic teachings of our elders and ancestors." A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

File contains remarks by Jerome Syrette, Commissioner For The Day and elder, that briefly touch on a number of subjects such as the influence of elders upon youth, living in harmony with the Creator and Mother Earth, and the Clan system.

This file contains a part of a transcript of a portion of a sitting of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples in Fredericton, New Brunswick. This part contains presentations by 14 students, from both high school and post-secondary educational institutions in New Brunswick, discussing issues such as loss of Aboriginal culture and language, the role of elders in Aboriginal education, substance abuse, teen pregnancy, and a lack of recreation programs and facilities on reserve and in cities.

Documentary on relationship between Aboriginal people and the land, water and rest of Canada. Duration: 52:00.