nikosis okinosīma
nikosis – my son
kinosīw – fish (singular)
kinosīwak – fish (plural)
01 – Celebrating Thanksgiving on the Rez – First Nation Stories Podcast
Do Indigenous peoples celebrate Thanksgiving? What about on the reserves or reservations? I take a brief look at celebrating Thanksgiving on the rez, as I remember it. I also add a bit or the real history as provided by my online sources. I speak some Cree, but it should be good, enjoy my take (or not, it’s up to you).
Sources:
https://twitter.com/searchq=indigenous%20thanksgiving&src=typed_query
https://itwewina.altlab.app/search?q=thanksgiving
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Wampanoag
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cTE3qCVBQAg
Sound Effect by Denis DL from Pixabay
Share this:
My First Week as a Cree Teacher
Sept 5 to Sept 8, 2023, marks my first week of teaching Cree in the classroom. I have been able to utilize many resources, both printed and online, that I helped develop. The students have been a challenge, as expected, however, I had much support from other teachers, Elders, and educational assistants.
While some of my classes went well, there were instances when the Internet let me down. Technology, let me down. As a computer technician, it was a bit disappointing. What helped, were the Elders who told me about their ideas and thoughts on cultural activities, and the printed resources that I had in my classroom. There are so many printed resources developed by my colleagues over the years, I kind of felt overwhelmed when it came down to choosing what to use.
I did not realize the effort it takes to teach Cree and to try and provide an environment for Woodland Cree Cultural Activities. I have to teach five classrooms: (K-1), (2-3), (4-5), (6-7) and (8-9). Oh, and I was assigned to a high school class: Native Studies 20, a small class, but I need to research topics I have not read about much, since university.
I am hoping for a better week this coming week, of course it will depend on how well I can plan my classes. I will continue to seek advice for the Elders at the school, and from my many colleagues who provide support for each other.
nīhithāwiwin kā-kiskinwahamākīt – Cree culture teacher
Hall Lake – mōsosākahikanisīsihk
Cree language – nīhithawīwin
Share this:
When Cows and Plows come in, I’m just going to ride my cow, to save gas costs.
When will I get my Cows and Plows money
tānispi kāwi kahcitinak mostosak ikwa pīkopicikana soniyaw
Share this:
wihtikō ikwa mistāpīw – wihtikō vs. Bigfoot
In the depths of the untamed wilderness of North America, a battle of mythical proportions unfolded between two legendary beings: Bigfoot and Wihtikō. The moon cast an ethereal glow upon the towering trees, setting the stage for an epic clash that would resonate through the ages.
Wihtikō, a creature born from ancient Native American legends, embodied darkness and malevolence. With ghostly white skin, sunken eyes that glowed with an otherworldly light, and an emaciated frame, Wihtikō roamed the land in search of lost souls to devour. Its haunting wails echoed through the night, striking fear into the hearts of those who dared to listen.
On the other side stood Bigfoot, a mysterious and powerful guardian of the wilderness. Covered in thick, matted fur, it possessed an air of strength and wisdom that commanded respect. Bigfoot’s deep-set eyes held the knowledge of ages, and its enormous stature evoked a primal sense of awe in all who encountered it. Though reclusive, the mere mention of its existence ignited the imagination of many.
Destiny drew these legendary beings together in a remote, ancient forest. As they faced each other, an electrifying tension filled the air. Wihtikō hissed, its bony fingers curling into claws, while Bigfoot stood resolute, radiating a quiet determination.
With a sudden burst of speed, Wihtikō lunged at Bigfoot, unleashing a flurry of savage strikes. Bigfoot’s agility and nimbleness allowed it to evade the majority of Wihtikō’s attacks, relying on its instinct and experience to protect itself. The clash of their forces shook the very ground beneath them, as if the forest itself trembled in anticipation.
Wihtikō’s attacks were fueled by a ravenous hunger for power and dominance. Its icy breath chilled the air, freezing the leaves that fell in its wake. Bigfoot, however, possessed an unyielding strength, rooted in the ancient wisdom of the natural world. It countered each of Wihtikō’s assaults with measured precision, using its sheer might to push back the relentless adversary.
As the battle raged on, the forest bore witness to a titanic struggle between light and darkness. Wihtikō’s ferocity was unmatched, but Bigfoot’s resilience and connection to the wilderness provided a profound advantage. With each clash, Wihtikō’s attacks weakened, while Bigfoot’s unwavering spirit and strategic maneuvers grew stronger.
Finally, in a decisive moment, Bigfoot seized an opportunity. It landed a crushing blow, sending Wihtikō crashing to the forest floor. Wihtikō, drained and wounded, struggled to rise, but its strength had been depleted. It became clear that the light had triumphed over the darkness.
With a thunderous roar that reverberated through the trees, Bigfoot declared its victory. Wihtikō, defeated and humbled, retreated into the shadows, vanishing from sight, perhaps forever.
As tranquility settled over the forest once more, Bigfoot stood as a symbol of harmony and protection. It had proven that wisdom and unity could prevail over malevolence and chaos. Tales of the epic battle between Bigfoot and Wihtikō would be recounted through generations, reminding all who listened of the enduring power of nature’s defenders.
In the legends and folklore of North America, Bigfoot emerged as the triumphant hero, the guardian of the wild places, and the embodiment of the untamed spirit of the land.
This is why we do not see the Wihtikō anymore, for now anyway.
Share this:
“The Pretendians,” a documentary from The Passionate Eye
I just finished watching The Pretendians, a documentary featuring Anishinaabe author and playwright Drew Hayden Taylor. I have heard of the documentary before, but I did not know it was free to watch on the CBC website. Here is the link: The Pretendians 3 | The Passionate Eye | CBC Gem
I had written a blog on pretendians on this website and I even asked Drew Hayden Taylor himself to Retweet my tweet, which he graciously did (thanks Drew, you bumped up my web views by several hundred). So now I am going to check out his stuff. In my earlier university days, I used to love reading his works. https://www.drewhaydentaylor.com/
The show started off with Taylor discussing pretend Indians, prominent people who somehow identified as Indigenous. Right off the bat, I recognized the author of Three Day Road, Joseph Boyden. This is the guy that duped me into thinking that I was reading the works of an Indigenous author. Enough about this guy.
Taylor decided he wanted to try some type of DNA test, while he waited for the results to come in, he took the viewers on a tour of his hometown, Curve Lake First Nation. He even showed where his people live and have their powwow events. A beautiful community, you must watch the show to see it.
He and the film crew (Drew’s crew), headed on over to the west coast to check out the art scene. Taylor and a guest browsed through some shops that showcased Indigenous artwork. They went over many works that may or may not be authentic. You really need to see what they rummaged through, there are so many “fakes” out there. However, there are also many legit designs by Indigenous people that collaborated with businesses to replicate their works.
Again, there are many great designs that must be seen to be believed. Taylor further explored other artists that may be exploiting other tribes or bands. It is an interesting take by a west coast man, that other tribes should not take away or duplicate the works from others.
Tayler went into Indigenous rights and the struggles of many people who seem to have decided to pursue being identified as Aboriginal and even fake status cards. This at about 19:15 of the documentary, very interesting revelations I rarely even read about it, much less heard about. Hayden interviews many others about their Indigenous heritage and linage. All very interesting, please follow the provided links to watch it yourself. Oh, and his results came in, and he almost reveals them at the end.
The Pretendians 3 | The Passionate Eye | CBC Gem
Share this:
Canada Indian Trust Fund
Several years ago, there was a post on Facebook about an Indian Trust Fund in Canada. It said that it was where the Canadian Government, took their capital from when they funded Indigenous people in our country.
It was a counter argument to the people, usually non-native, that money supporting Indigenous people did not come from tax-payers money, below is a screenshot of the post. I scribbled the name of the original poster (OP), because I do not have permission to post their name as he is not a public figure:
Back when I first saw the post, I thought it was interesting, but it did not concern me very much because it was difficult to discern fake news at the time. In May 18, 2021, an article on TorontoMet Today, highlighted the issue.
How much money flowed through the Indian Trust Fund and where is it now? How can the myth of “free money” for First Nations be deconstructed? What do solutions for financial reparations look like?
It is a very interesting article and worth a read by both Native and non-native people alike. In our quest for reconciliation, it is important that we all have the facts before making assumptions about other people, or nations.
Money – sōniyāw
Our money – kisōniyāminaw
My money – nisōniyām
Your money – kisōniyām
TorontoMet Today – How much does Canada owe Indigenous communities for stolen land?
Yellowhead Institute (PDF) – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: The Indian Trust Fund: Debunking Myths & Misconceptions
Another article that might be of interest from the Yellowhead Institute (PDF) – Recommendations on First Nations Access to Indian Moneys
Share this:
Wīsāhkīcahk and the mouse story
The story of Wīsāhkīcahk and the mouse is a traditional Cree legend that has been passed down through generations of Indigenous peoples.
Wīsāhkīcahk, also known as Wesakechak or the Trickster, is a prominent figure in Cree mythology and is often depicted as a mischievous and cunning character who uses his wit to outsmart others. In this particular story, Wīsāhkīcahk encounters a small mouse who challenges him to a contest of strength.
The mouse boasts that he is the strongest animal in the forest and challenges Wīsāhkīcahk to lift a large rock. Wīsāhkīcahk accepts the challenge, but as he tries to lift the rock, the mouse scurries underneath it, making it appear as though he is lifting it effortlessly. Wīsāhkīcahk is impressed and concedes that the mouse is indeed the strongest animal in the forest.
However, the mouse’s victory is short-lived. Wīsāhkīcahk then challenges the mouse to a contest of speed, boasting that he is the fastest runner in the forest. The mouse agrees, and Wīsāhkīcahk sets off at a sprint. However, as he runs, he ties his legs together, slowing himself down. The mouse, thinking he has won again, takes a victory lap around Wīsāhkīcahk. But as he runs past Wīsāhkīcahk, the Trickster trips him, and the mouse tumbles to the ground.
In the end, Wīsāhkīcahk emerges victorious, but the mouse still retains some of his pride, as he knows that he is the strongest animal in the forest. This story teaches the importance of using intelligence and cunning to overcome challenges, rather than relying solely on brute strength.
Share this:
When will I get my Cows and Plows Money (Treaty 6)
As of this date, there is no real update to the Cows and Plows payments. At the bottom of this page, I updated a couple of links. I will be sure to post any updates to the situation as soon as I am informed.
(Sept 30, 2023, CV)
When are we going to get our Cows and Plows money? That is the question, asked by many people in the Treaty 6 territory. It is a good question, one that I ask myself all the time.
Ever since I heard about Treaty 8 receiving their settlement money through the Agricultural Benefits specific claim (cows and plows), I wondered when the same would happen for us in the Treaty 6 territory. I knew, from what I heard, that there would be court proceedings happening, before a settlement could be made.
I am going to show you a bit of history, but briefly because I do not want to bore anybody with a lesson or lecture. As you can see from the map, both Treaty 6 and 8 are right next to each other in Alberta, they are also both in Saskatchewan, separated by Treaty 10. Okay, that is done, if you want to learn more, please take the time to do some research, as it is very important to all First Nations.
According to a Feb 21, 2023 update on the Lac La Ronge Indian Band website, regarding the Agricultural Benefits Committee (ABC):
As the 2023 LLRIB Elections are fast approaching, all Council business will be tabled until after the LLRIB Elections. This will not have an impact on LLRIB’s agricultural benefits claim, as we are still waiting for Canada to make its own internal preparations for negotiations (LLRIB.COM).
Personally, I wish the federal government would just hurry the heck up. They should own up to their past promises and get it over and done with. There are many band members who are struggling with finances, and money from a cows and plows settlement, would hopefully be substantial enough to get many of us out of debt.
I have not been out of debt since high school, and I want to feel like I am in high school again. I realize that it is basically a “failed promise to provide cattle and agricultural equipment,” but I would rather take the money because I am not sure what I would do with a cow, or even a plow, for that matter.
As I mentioned earlier, Treaty 8 has already settled many claims. In 2019, Treaty 8 members, specifically Members of the K’atl’odeeche First Nation (KFN) near Hay River, N.W.T., each received $30,000. In 2021, Clearwater River Dene Nation members, received a payment of $44,000 each. This was big news for many First Nations across Canada. As of “January 31, 2023, 646 specific claims, totalling $11.3 billion in compensation, have been resolved” (Canada.ca).
$30, 000 to $40, 000, I really wish our settlement is near that amount. I can only speak for myself on these matters and cannot make assumptions on how my follow members would spend their money. I am sure many would not spend it wisely. On the other hand, there are many industrious people that would do great things for themselves and their families, and maybe even their community.
I realize that since I am the one who updates my band’s website, that I should probably know more than I am letting on. Nothing could be further from the truth. I am not in the meetings or negotiations, I merely wait for the update to be sent to me, so that I can update the website with the information. If anything, I probably have a 15 to 30 minute heads up before the membership, depending on how much information there is to share. Just an FYI, I will update the LLRIB website day or night, weekday or weekend to give such vital info to our membership, as long as I am in front of a computer to do so (I will need to be awake too).
There is much information out there and I am sure there are better explanations that I can give. It is a huge undertaking for an individual to get to the bottom of such a topic, but I hope the settlement can be resolved soon so we can all move on.
Cows and Plows have been discussed many times in the media and on social media pages:
Facebook: Tammy Cook-Searson (August 19, 2019) – – UPDATE ON TREATY 6 AGRICULTURAL BENEFITS (“COWS & PLOWS)
LLRIB.COM (February 21, 2023) – Update on the Agricultural Benefits Claim (“Cows and Plows”)
Cold Lake First Nation (No Date on Post) – Agricultural Benefits (Cows and Plows) Specific Claim Community Update
La Ronge NOW (March 6, 2023) – LLRIB provides update on agricultural benefits claim
MBC Radio (June 13, 2023) – LLRIB updates Cows and Plows negotiations
MBC Radio (March 7, 2023) – Canada delays LLRIB Cows and Plows negotiations
The Star Phoenix (July 3, 2020) – Lac La Ronge Indian Band pushes to speed treaty claim
Treaty 7: Windspeaker (December 21st, 2021) – Blood member wants entire ‘cows and plows’ settlement divided evenly among members
TREATY 8:
CTV News saskatoon (June 2, 2021) – Long awaited’ $122.3M settlement paid to members of Clearwater River Dene Nation
CBC.CA (July 19,2023) – After more than 100 years, gov’t makes good on Treaty 8 promise to N.W.T. First Nation
CANADA.CA (February 27, 2023) – Kapawe’no First Nation and Canada settle Treaty 8 Agricultural Benefits specific claim
When will I get my Cows and Plows money
tānispi kāwi kahcitinak mostosak ikwa pīkopicikana soniyaw
Share this:
First Nation Stories and ChatGPT – Moving Forward
As the world continues to evolve, it’s important to preserve and share the rich cultural heritage of indigenous communities. Indigenous stories have been passed down from generation to generation, and they provide a unique insight into the history, culture, and traditions of these communities. These stories have the power to educate, inspire, and unite people across the world.
With the advent of technology, it has become easier to share these stories with a wider audience. One such technology is ChatGPT, a large language model trained by OpenAI, based on the GPT-3.5 architecture. This technology can be used to create authentic and engaging stories that capture the essence of indigenous culture.
As an individual who is passionate about preserving and sharing indigenous stories, I have decided to use ChatGPT to post indigenous stories moving forward on my website. These stories will showcase the diverse cultures, traditions, and experiences of indigenous communities. Through these stories, I hope to educate people on the importance of preserving indigenous culture and the challenges faced by these communities.
Indigenous stories are more than just a form of entertainment. They offer a unique perspective on life and teach us important lessons that we can apply to our own lives. They remind us of the importance of community, family, and the natural world. They teach us to respect and care for the environment, to value diversity, and to strive for harmony.
Through the use of ChatGPT, I hope to bring these stories to life and share them with a wider audience. I believe that by doing so, we can help to preserve and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of indigenous communities for generations to come.
Check it out – CREE HUNTERS BATTLE THE WIHTIKŌ
Partially ChatGPT Generated
Get your own AI Open account – https://openai.com/product/gpt-4
