Spring 2021 Special Issue Métis Election - Gabriel Dumont ...
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Spring 2021 Special Issue Métis Election
EDITORS
Spring 2021
Contents
Lisa Bird-Wilson 2 Message from Candidates for Vice President
Karon Shmon
the Executive Director
EDITORIAL BOARD 32 Darrel Burnouf
Geordy McCaffrey 6 Métis Nation–Saskatchewan
Lisa Bird-Wilson Regions Map 34 Darren Deschambeault
Karon Shmon
CONTRIBUTORS A publication of the 7 Region Director Candidates 36 Michelle LeClair
Beckie Belanger Gabriel Dumont Institute
Darrel Burnouf of Native Studies and 8 Election Issue Introduction 38 Dale McAuley
Clément Chartier Applied Research Inc.
Earl Cook
Darren Deschambeault Any correspondence or inquiries can be made to: 9 Executive Candidates 40 Gerald Morin
Louis G. Gardiner The Gabriel Dumont Institute
Melvina Goulet 917-22nd Street West
Saskatoon, SK S7M 0R9 Candidates for Secretary Candidates for President
May V. Henderson
Harmonie Amanda King Telephone: 306.242.6070
John Robert Lafontaine newnation@gdins.org 10 Beckie Belanger 42 Clément Chartier
Dennis Langan
The New Nation is published quarterly.
Karen LaRocque
Michelle LeClair
12 May V. Henderson 44 Karen LaRocque
All views and opinions expressed in this
Dale McAuley publication are those of the various authors and
Lisa McCallum are not necessarily those of the Gabriel Dumont 14 Lisa McCallum 46 Mary Ann Morin
Craig Henry Morin Institute or its Executive.
Gerald Morin
Mary Ann Morin No part of this publication may be reproduced, 16 Craig Henry Morin 48 Glen Hector McCallum
Ashley Norton in any shape or form without the express written
consent of The New Nation and the Gabriel
Dumont Institute. 18 Ashley Norton 50 Voting Locations and Times
DESIGNER
Murray Lindsay Advertising can be obtained by contacting
Candidates for Treasurer
The New Nation at the Gabriel Dumont Institute.
COVER PHOTO
George Gingras Advertisers and advertising agencies assume full 20 Earl Cook
responsibility for all content of advertisements
printed. Advertisers also assume responsibility
for any claim arising therefrom made against 22 Louis G. Gardiner
The New Nation or the Gabriel Dumont Institute.
Back issues of The New Nation can also be 24 Melvina Goulet
downloaded from:
www.Métismuseum.ca/newnation
26 Harmonie Amanda King
28 John Robert Lafontaine
30 Dennis Langan
of NATIVE STUDIES
and APPLIED RESEARCH
1
Message from the Gabriel Dumont Institute In spite of the MN–S struggles, the Institute
flourished. It succeeded and grew because it
As we enter this election cycle it is a good
opportunity for Métis people to reflect on the size
Executive Director operated at an arms-length from the politics of the
Métis Nation. The Institute thrived under a board of
of our government. To put this into context, at the
writing of this message we have approximately
Election Stakes Have Never Been Higher directors appointed by MN–S regions and ratified by 15,000 registered Métis citizens. We have a PMC of
both the Provincial Métis Council and the Minister 18 and potentially up to 130 Métis locals throughout
In less than a month Métis people will go to the polls of Advanced Education for the province. Each GDI the province. Roughly, the Métis have an elected
to elect a new Métis government that will make up board director was provided with governance official for every 100 people. In comparison, each
the Provincial Métis Council (PMC). Thanks to the training to strengthen their skills and abilities federal Member of Parliament (MP) is responsible
historic Canada-Métis Nation Accord negotiated by to serve our people. More importantly, besides for, give-or-take, 100,000 people. For the province,
the Métis National Council in 2017, based upon our the stability created for the Members of the Legislative
Section 35 rights, the newly-elected PMC members governance of the Institute, Assembly (MLAs) represent
will start their jobs with over $50 million this fiscal stability in the education roughly 18,000.
year—funds intended to flow for the benefit of our and training offered by the
Métis communities. Over the last four years over Institute meant the Métis In December of 2020 the
110 million has flowed to Saskatchewan. Ottawa students in Saskatchewan PMC approved raises based
has sent money for Métis post-secondary students, were still able to pursue their generally on salaries earned
housing, economic development, early learning education and career goals. by provincial MLAs. The new
and childcare, and a variety of other portfolios. range for a PMC member starts
GDI founders structured the at $100,600 and tops out at
I feel truly blessed to have had the privilege and Institute to train Métis people $175,000 for the president.
honour of serving Gabriel Dumont Institute (GDI) for future jobs under Métis These increases were made
and the Métis community for the last 28 years, self-government. To this end, retroactive to April 01, 2020.
working alongside hundreds of dedicated Métis the Institute has prepared These salaries were approved
people we have collectively built GDI into the most and graduated thousands despite the fact that some
envied and coveted Métis success story throughout of students at almost every of our Métis regions would
the Homeland. It would be a challenge for anyone Geordy McCaffrey, Executive Director, level in hundreds of different be hard-pressed to find 300
to find a more competent, effective, and admired Gabriel Dumont Institute employment fields. While registered citizens. Although
Métis organization in the Homeland. some of these graduates have the new PMC salary grids were
been employed at GDI and other affiliates, most modeled on provincial MLAs, MLAs and MPs are not
Métis leaders of the 70s had many hard-fought Throughout the 41 years GDI has served the Métis have been absorbed into mainstream employers allowed to have second full-time jobs. Yet the PMC
battles to establish the Institute and the other Métis of Saskatchewan, it has stood strong beside the and have not found a home within their own authorized themselves to be able to hold other full-
affiliates that provide services to the Métis. When Métis Nation–Saskatchewan even as the MN–S government. time employment while collecting a salary as an
New Nation Magazine • spring 2021
creating the GDI Bylaws, our founders clearly knew experienced its share of ups and downs. Our Métis elected MN–S representative. One must question
governance structure has struggled with a myriad A scan of our Métis government’s senior if the level and amount of Métis governance is
The Métis leaders who of issues including election fraud, lawsuits, loss of management shows a glaring absence of Métis effective, efficient, or maintainable.
funding, and chronic infighting. At one of our low people at the upper leadership level, while at the
established GDI had it
points in 1994, Métis people almost lost the Gabriel same time it is touting a new self-government In 2019 the MN–S released an interim report on
right. The foresight of these model. I can’t help but look back on the history Constitutional Reform for the MN–S. In that report
Dumont Institute. Financial resources were taken
leaders brings a smile to my of the Métis scrip process that occurred in the late the authors assert that Métis people want “all
from GDI and provided to the MN–S. When our Métis
face. Their wisdom set the government pulled federal training resources from 1800s and early 1900s, when speculators with ties affiliates to come under the umbrella of the MN–S
foundation for GDI to succeed. the Institute, it left GDI with a huge, unmanageable to the government of the day followed the scrip and identify clear lines of reporting.” One wonders
debt. At the eleventh-hour, the province stepped processes around throughout the Métis Homeland. who in the Métis public expressed this desire and
the Institute would function best when operating in, restructured the GDI board and provided a term Systematically, through fraud and other dubious what information or history was provided to them
at an arms-length from the MN–S. They enshrined loan. Since that point, when the province lent a methods, they turned our people into landless that would lead to this outcome. From an internal
in our bylaws that, “the Institute shall operate as a helping hand, GDI has been on a meteoric rise. It has citizens in the very country we called our own. It is staff perspective, GDI has over 80 Institute staff-
separate entity with the parent organization (MN–S) become one of the most important post-secondary imperative that the elected leaders chart a new path signed letters indicating that they do not want to
and shall maintain separate offices, administration, institutions in the province. Revenues have risen and build a strong foundation for Métis generations see the MN–S restructure GDI in any manner. Had
programs and services.” The Métis leaders who from just over seven million in 1994, to over 40 to come, rather than allow modern-day speculators we brought this to the attention of our students
established GDI had it right. The foresight of these million in 2021. to enrich themselves off Métis Accord resources set and community I am sure that they would have
leaders brings a smile to my face. Their wisdom set aside for Métis communities. similar reservations over any restructure of GDI
2 the foundation for GDI to succeed. 3
very seriously. The stakes are high—in fact, they’ve
I encourage you to take “I was around when it started. To see 40 years of this, not only education for our young
never been higher. Be sure to ask each and every
this upcoming election very candidate at every level where they stand on GDI people, but the people who came back to go to school, that’s something that never
and the other affiliates. I dream of looking back on could’ve happened without GDI,” said Nora Cummings, Métis elder and founder of the
seriously. The stakes are high—
GDI in twenty years time to see all of the people Saskatchewan Native Women’s Association. “I’m so proud to see that our Métis people
in fact, they’ve never have an institution to educate Métis people,” she said. “That’s why I feel GDI is an important
who have changed their lives for the better because
been higher. of our programs. I hope the Institute continues to part of our nation. In fact, I think it may be the most important part of our Métis Nation.”
be that source of pride for all Métis for generations
as a department within the MN–S. Along with to come. We have the strongest staff and the best https://www.eaglefeathernews.com/news/gabriel-dumont-institute-celebrates-40-years
discussions over restructuring, the MN–S aspires students anyone could ever imagine.
to centrally control funding for all affiliates. Does
it make sense for an emerging government with I wish the best to our new Métis government elected
growing pains to control resources for a high on May 29th. The success of this new government
functioning organization like GDI that has a stellar will be the success of the Métis Nation. Our nation
history of transparency and accountability? will thrive if our newly elected officials focus their
efforts on advancing Métis rights, securing a land “An Institute of Our Own”
To shed some light on some of the issues that arise, base, and creating a high functioning government, is available as a free download
there was a great deal of behind-the-scenes struggle while supporting the affiliates as they continue to
to get resources earmarked for the benefit of Métis at this address:
succeed in providing Métis citizens with valuable
students out to them. GDI not only has the capacity services. There is no need to fix what isn’t broken. http://www.metismuseum.ca/media/
to deliver funds to students, the Institute is the document.php/149596.GDI_Institute_
logical connection between the Métis government Remember to vote because, like it or not, Métis
and Métis students. Despite this, we had to beg people will undoubtedly get the government we
of_Our_Own.pdf
and plead to administer the university funding deserve at the end of May.
while the MN–S wanted to deliver it themselves
even though their capacity for such an endeavour maarsi,
was non-existent. Similarly, COVID resources for Geordy McCaffrey
Métis students, sent from Ottawa in July of 2020, Executive Director
were held at the MN–S head office for six months Gabriel Dumont Institute
before being contracted to GDI in December. In a
third example, a federal $208,000 COVID grant for
of NATIVE STUDIES
GDI students was approved for GDI in February and APPLIED RESEARCH
of 2021. Both the MN–S and Canada insisted that
New Nation Magazine • spring 2021
the money flow through the MN–S, creating a time
lag and other barriers. GDI finally received the
money on March 27th with expectations that it be
expended before March 31st. Had the funds in these
examples simply flowed to the service provider,
funding could have been in the hands of students
months earlier. A similar pattern of funding flow
has been experienced with Métis university funds—
in year one the funding was received in mid-August
and in year two, in July, for fall start dates. These
scenarios are indicative of the growing pains of our
Métis government. “In your story you can’t leave any people out—the thousands of
people that came to our meetings, the thousands of people that
My time at GDI has come to an end. For many of came to our demonstrations. They’re the builders of Dumont.
you your career as a student or staff member is just No one person can take responsibility.”
beginning. Many of you will have children or loved
~ Jim Sinclair, 2011
ones who will receive their education through GDI.
I encourage you to take this upcoming election
4 5
Uranium City
Region Director Candidates
Lake Athabasca Stoney Rapids
NRI ERIII
• Laura Burnouf • Marg Friesen
• Anne Dorion
Wollaston • Glenn Marcel Lafleur WRI
Lake
Wollaston • Michael Edward Bell
Northern Region II NRII • Loretta King
Cree
Lake Reindeer • Nap Chartier • Melanie Pritchett
Lake
• Leonard John Montgrand
Northern Region I WRIA
La Loche NRIII • Carol Delorme
Churchill Southend
Lake • Randy “Yogi” Belanger • Billy Kennedy
Buffalo • Mervin (Tex) Bouvier • Crystal Miller
Narrows
• Peter Frank Durocher
Pinehouse
Île-à-la-Crosse
Lake Pelican Narrows
• Alex Laurent Maurice WRII
Lac La
• Mervin C. Morin • Darlene Berube
Northern Region IIIBeauval Ronge
La Ronge • Curtis Duane Blanchard
Cold Lake
Green Lake ERI • Darlene McKay
Eastern Region I • Ryan Lee Carriere • Sherry Ann McLennan
Meadow Montreal Lake
Lake
Western Region I
Chitek Western Candle
Lake
Cumberland House ERII WRIIA
Lake
Region II • Brent Wilfred John Digness • Penny Hurton
Prince Nipawin
Lloydminster Albert • Dennis Wilfred Miller • Kathie Pruden Nansel
North
Battleford Melfort • Brittany St. Dennis • Cheryl Reed
Hudson Bay
New Nation Magazine • spring 2021
Batoche
Western Region Ia
Eastern Region II ERIIA WRIII
Preeceville
SASKATOON • Derek (Porky) Langan • Wendy Gervais
Western Region IIa Wynyard • Garry Martin • Wayne McKenzie
Rosetown
Outlook • Tim J.W. Roussin • Calvin Racette
Kindersley Yorkton
Lestock
Eastern
Melville
Region IIa
Moose Jaw
Western Region III REGINA
Swift
Maple Creek Current Eastern Region III
Weyburn
Assiniboia
Estevan
6 7
Election Issue Introduction Executive Candidates
Taanishi and welcome to the Spring 2021 edition
of The New Nation–La noovel naasyoon which is Candidates for Secretary Candidates for Vice President
dedicated to providing readers with profiles of the
candidates who are running for office to serve the
Métis people and communities of Saskatchewan. Beckie Belanger Darrel Burnouf
With a mandate to provide education to the Métis May V. Henderson Darren Deschambeault
of Saskatchewan, the Institute chose to provide
readers with information about the executive
candidates running for office in the Métis Nation– Lisa McCallum Michelle LeClair
Saskatchewan Election slated for May 29, 2021. Voter
information is available at https://mnselection.ca/. Craig Henry Morin Dale McAuley
Via the Institute’s social media forums on Facebook
and Twitter, March 10-30, Métis citizens were invited Ashley Norton Gerald Morin
to submit the topics and questions they want to In addition to the information available to those
know more about. old enough to vote, the Institute has prepared a Candidates for Treasurer Candidates for President
governance guide for teachers who wish to inform
The Saskatchewan Métis Nation Legislative
their students about the current structure of our
Assembly has called an election for May 29,
governance system. The guide is written for grade Earl Cook Clément Chartier
2021. We are dedicating the spring issue of “The
four students and correlates with the outcomes and
New Nation: La noovel naasyoon” magazine to
indicators in the provincial curriculum. It can be used
Saskatchewan Métis election coverage. The intent Louis G. Gardiner Karen LaRocque
for any grade level seeking a better understanding
is to provide—in a non-partisan manner—Métis
of Métis governance. A link to download this free
citizens with as much information as possible
and to provide all candidates with a forum
learning resource will be available at the New Melvina Goulet Mary Ann Morin
Nation web address provided above. We hope that
to communicate their ideas and vision to the
a greater number of Métis youth will be interested
electorate.
in our governance and that the non-Indigenous
Harmonie Amanda King Glen Hector McCallum
Your questions will be reviewed anonymously,
students and school personnel will grow in their
sent to candidates, and a selection will be
answered in our spring issue released in early
understanding of us, the otipemisiwak — the people John Robert Lafontaine
New Nation Magazine • spring 2021
who govern themselves.
May. Please submit your candidate questions to
newnation@gdins.org by March 30, 2021. Dennis Langan
From the responses received, questions specific to
each executive position were written and all the The Métis Association is not a compulsory
candidates who filed their nomination papers by society. It is based on the voluntary
the April 29th deadline were invited to submit their obligation of its members to pursue a
responses and contact information to the magazine.
policy on the basis of a program of the
Readers will be able to access this issue online at conventions of the Métis Association and
www.gdins.org/Métis-culture/the-new-nation. This to subject themselves to the discipline and
link will also be provided on social media. A limited decisions of the majority of the Association.
number of hard copies are also available. Although We demand this of the members of our
most of the candidates for executive positions have Association and all the more yet of such
their own social media platforms, the magazine members as occupy leading posts in the
provides a forum for candidates to get their
Métis movement.
message out to more people and a forum in which
Métis citizens can learn more and make informed -Jim Brady
choices as they prepare to vote.
8 9
Secretary Candidate Beckie Belanger
I am a proud mother of three beautiful is to have our membership base fully registered up accomplishing this objective. In order for
daughters and grandmother to five wonderful to 80% within my first term. The best and quickest us to have maximum effort in this regard
grandkids. My family roots lie with the Aubichon way to achieving those results is to of course, we need to engage our locals fully. We
and Burnouf family of Beauval and the Laliberte legitimize our regional Councils and engage them also have to examine how some of the
family in Green Lake and the Pedersen clan in the pursuit of these numbers. Even as a single locals are working and why some are
of Buffalo Narrows. I was raised by my voice at the Provincial Métis Council level I will act being ignored or rejected. We would need
grandmother in Île-à-la-Crosse and was involved as a very strong advocate so that our nation is able to find the proper venue to legitimize
as a business partner alongside my husband. I to achieve the recognition of our regional councils. the locals that are working hard. If these
have been involved with our local in Île-à-la- I ask that you share my platform with as many locals have met the standard of being
Crosse for a number of years and most recently, people as you possibly can. legitimate, then we have to honour their
as a member of Les Filles de Madeleine where I work and bring them home. We cannot
learned so much from the power and abilities of 2. In 2017 the MN–S discontinued the practice of have abandoned locals, but at the same
our Métis women. posting resolutions from its PMC meetings. Instead time, we need all locals to be strong and
they opted to post meeting summaries which engaged.
1. The MN–S Constitution (Regions, Section provide general information. What steps will you
10) states that “the Regional Council shall take to ensure that Métis citizens are informed of
provide direction to their representatives on decisions and directions made by the PMC and CONTACT
the Provincial Métis Council with respect to all MNLA? Beckie Bèlanger
matters…” In the last term a number of regions PO Box 304
struggled to hold regional council meetings I will use this phrase often. If we want to act like Île-à-la-Crosse SK, S0M 1C0
and in some cases no meetings were held. What a government that we must conduct ourselves beckiebelanger1@outlook.com
steps will you take to ensure Local and Regional accordingly. Therefore in following the rule of (639)832-7551
Council meetings take place so that they are thumb of any governing body that wants to ensure
able to discharge their Constitutional duties? accountability and transparency to its citizenry
then they must make all information readily
It is this exact reason I chose to run as provincial available to the people we serve. Whether it is
secretary. The often used phrases “capacity full financial disclosure and accountability, which
building” or “transparency” do a great injustice includes salary and travel expenses of all members
New Nation Magazine • spring 2021
because the regional councils are NOT engaged of the PMC, disclosure of all contracts awarded by
to the extent they should be. We have to build the MN–S, and to have a very strict rule of conduct
this professional relationship with our regional around conflicts of interest. We can easily set up a
councils, as they are a great source of advice, process that ensures this disclosure as we should
priority setting and more importantly, a have nothing to hide.
communication venue back to the people. The
other important value of these regional councils 3. At the November 2019 MNLA several Locals were
Secretary Candidate
is that they recognize the uniqueness of each of removed and other urban locals were not allowed
the areas that the director represents. I would to participate in the meeting. These suspensions
share the example of northern region two or were related to regional disputes. As Secretary
three in which they may have total different how would you help locals, regions and citizens
priorities than a southwest region. As secretary, participate in their governing structures?
I will commit to a series of initiatives such as
constitutional amendments that legitimize and As I have indicated earlier, I am endeavouring
FORCE the area directors to meet with their to have 80% of our membership list completed
respective regional Council at least 12 times per within my first term. As a secretary this is one of
10 year, Another commitment I will strive towards my primary responsibilities and I will focus on 11
Secretary Candidate May V. Henderson
I am May Henderson; a proud Métis woman. 2. In 2017 the MN–S discontinued the practice of issues are the result of not utilizing the
All my life I have been involved in the Métis posting resolutions from its PMC meetings. Instead Secretary’s office properly. Should the
community, promoting culture and values. My they opted to post meeting summaries which constitution and secretariat rules be
greatest Joy is being a mother to Janelle, and provide general information. What steps will you followed, the current disputes in the
grandmother to Josie and Rhodes. My family take to ensure that Métis citizens are informed of regions can be resolved through clarity
brings so much strength and happiness to my decisions and directions made by the PMC and and uniformity.
life. MNLA?
CONTACT
I was on the Executive of Local #7 in Prince Albert Transparency needs to return to the Nation, which May Henderson
for over 20 years and was the elected Provincial means that meeting minutes and resolutions need 306-270-9896
Secretary in 2012. In recent years I have worked to be made available by head office. The Métis maysgoodcooking@gmail.com
hands on in the local community in Saskatoon. Nation–Saskatchewan is considered a governance
structure, and as such, there needs to be public
disclosure. Moving forward, aside from in-camera
1. The MN–S Constitution (Regions, Section moments, PMC meetings would be streamed the
10) states that “the Regional Council shall way other Indigenous governments are opening
provide direction to their representatives on governance to their citizens. All governance
the Provincial Métis Council with respect to all minutes and videos would be posted in a timely
matters…” In the last term a number of regions manner, and meetings would be open to observers
struggled to hold regional council meetings like in the past. This level of transparency would
and in some cases no meetings were held. What restore confidence in the Nation.
steps will you take to ensure Local and Regional
Council meetings take place so that they are I believe that the Provincial Métis Council must
able to discharge their Constitutional duties? work together for the benefit of all Métis citizens.
For too long the PMC has not demonstrated
To ensure that the secretariat is in order in transparency and accountability, it is time for
the way of Locals, letters need to be sent out stability to return, created a path forward guided
to the regions, assuming we need to get all by the people.
New Nation Magazine • spring 2021
locals updated, explaining what needs to be
submitted, making it clear that process is 3. At the November 2019 MNLA several Locals were
required to maintain constitutional standing. removed and other urban locals were not allowed
This action would create a central filing system to participate in the meeting. These suspensions
and be supported by providing policies that were related to regional disputes. As Secretary
support this action. To support the meetings, I how would you help locals, regions and citizens
would offer to assist in sending letters of notice participate in their governing structures?
Secretary Candidate
for meetings and being willing to support the
process. Aside from capacity being an obstacle To alleviate some regional tensions, the Secretary’s
to governance, chaos has also been an obstacle, office provides a neutral space where there can be
and strength and clarity are required at this general oversight. As mentioned in the question
time. When I was Secretary before, I had to work 1 answer, in transparently organizing the office,
to get the Local files in order, and I am prepared the office can mitigate tension while ensuring
to do the same again. the Locals follow the Métis Nation–Saskatchewan
Constitution and conventions. The current
12 13
Secretary Candidate Lisa McCallum
I was born and raised in Buffalo Narrows legislation and policy, roles and responsibilities of structures already exist through the
and have lived with my family in Saskatoon portfolios, intergovernmental relations and how Local, Regional Councils, Provincial
for many years. In 2017, I was elected to the citizens can become involved or access programs Métis Council and Métis Nation
position of provincial secretary. I am a mother, and services. Legislative Assembly and Senate. I
grandmother, daughter wife, sister and auntie. will work closely with these entities to
These roles provide me with direction as I know 2. In 2017 the MN–S discontinued the practice of ensure that capacity is developed and
that the decisions I make and the activities I posting resolutions from its PMC meetings. Instead enhanced at all levels. I will work to
support within the Métis nation impact our they opted to post meeting summaries which ensure Section 7 (the role of the Locals)
families and communities in very personal provide general information. What steps will you and Section 10 (the role of the Region) of
and significant ways. I take the responsibility take to ensure that Métis citizens are informed of the MN–S Constitution is implemented.
of secretary very serious and if re-elected, I decisions and directions made by the PMC and I recognize that rural Locals have
will strive to make thoughtful, well-informed MNLA? different needs and priorities that urban
decisions that benefit ALL Métis citizens. Locals. As secretary, I will work with ALL
I believe in transparency through communication, Locals to identify and implement their
1. The MN–S Constitution (Regions, Section and I strongly support the preservation and governance priorities.
10) states that “the Regional Council shall management of MN–S public records. Our citizens
provide direction to their representatives on have a right to be informed about decisions
the Provincial Métis Council with respect to all being made by those they elect. I believe it is the CONTACT
matters…” In the last term a number of regions secretary’s responsibility to ensure our citizens Lisa McCallum
struggled to hold regional council meetings are informed of decisions that impact them and I Facebook: Votelisamccallum2021;
and in some cases no meetings were held. What commit to ensuring PMC decisions and activities Métis Nationalists in Saskatchewan
steps will you take to ensure Local and Regional are made widely available to our citizens. I am
Council meetings take place so that they are committed to sharing all PMC decisions and
able to discharge their Constitutional duties? meeting minutes on the MN–S website and
distributed to the Locals and Regions. I will also
I am committed to ensuring that Local and work to ensure that members of the Métis Nation
Regional Council voices are heard at the Legislative Assembly receive the necessary
Provincial Métis Council, and their priorities information well in advance of the MNLA ensuring
New Nation Magazine • spring 2021
are supported by the Provincial and Federal their ability to communicate with Local members
Government. I support the education and and positioning them to make well-informed
engagement of Locals and Regions in the decisions.
governance of our Nation. I know that no one
understands grassroots communities better 3. At the November 2019 MNLA several Locals were
than the Local Métis citizens, and I will work removed and other urban locals were not allowed
directly with Locals and through Regional to participate in the meeting. These suspensions
Secretary Candidate
Councils to help build the capacity of local were related to regional disputes. As Secretary
governance to server our citizens. how would you help locals, regions and citizens
participate in their governing structures?
I am committed to a governance education and
outreach program to support Locals and Regions I commit to fostering increased awareness
in making their own informed decisions and in governance processes and further engage
creating and enacting their own Constitutions, the citizens in the governance of our Nation.
in alignment with the MN–S Constitution. I will I am committed to promoting a strong and
work closely with Locals and Regions for further representative Métis Local and Regional structure.
14 education on the structure and goals of the MN–S, I believe that Saskatchewan Métis governance 15
Secretary Candidate Craig Henry Morin
My name is Craig Morin, and I reside in would advocate for adequate funding to build As a secretary I would help locals,
Saskatoon with my son. I was raised in the Métis capacity at the local level, so the budget is built regions and citizens participate in their
community of Green Lake where I attended to reflect the need. I would advocate and work governing structure by helping them
elementary school then graduated high school with our affiliates to develop programs that meet develop processes so they maintain
in Meadow Lake. I moved to La Ronge to further the educational needs of our Regional Councils their membership lists, minutes of their
my education and completed the Professional and Locals such as training in the area of Duty local, decisions or concerns of their
Access certification with Nortep/Norpac. This to Consult, proposal writing, self government local, and seek training opportunities
certification focused on municipal governance negotiations, etc. It is important to ensure good for the local members to understand our
which provided me with the understanding of communication between MN–S, Regional and Constitution and other acts that guide
how this impacted Métis communities. I returned Local levels with my role being key to ensure the our nation such as the Métis Nation of
to my Métis community to work and assist in needs of the locals are met. Saskatchewan Legislative Assembly Act.
development of the Green Lake Sawmill. As a It is important that we begin to mentor
result of a downturn in the economy, I returned 2. In 2017 the MN–S discontinued the practice of and develop a strategy to have youth
to school for certification in Environmental posting resolutions from its PMC meetings. Instead participate at our MNLAs and other
Monitoring. they opted to post meeting summaries which forums. In addition, I have seen MN–S
provide general information. What steps will you has many citizens not actively involved
1. The MN–S Constitution (Regions, Section take to ensure that Métis citizens are informed of at the local level, so I would like to work
10) states that “the Regional Council shall decisions and directions made by the PMC and with locals and regions to brainstorm
provide direction to their representatives on MNLA? how we can motivate our citizens to
the Provincial Métis Council with respect to all become actively involved and bring their
matters…” In the last term a number of regions All documentation should be available on the voice to MN–S. I would follow standards
struggled to hold regional council meetings MN–S website of all decisions by the PMC and set by the Métis nation and Promote
and in some cases no meetings were held. What MNLA. If a Métis citizen enquires about a topic, I unity and accountability to all involved
steps will you take to ensure Local and Regional would ensure the information is forwarded by in Métis governance.
Council meetings take place so that they are mail, fax or email with a cc to the Local President
able to discharge their Constitutional duties? and Regional Director. I would encourage Métis
citizens to reach out to their Local Presidents and CONTACT
New Nation Magazine • spring 2021
Communication and the development of policies Regional Directors to discuss their concerns or Craig Morin
and procedures will ensure the constitutional advise of any needs or gaps. I believe that Locals (306) 230-4609
duties are met and completed within the local should be given updated information from the craighmorin1@hotmail.com
and regional council. This will ensure each Regional Directors as decisions are made by the
region understands the importance of unity and PMC and informed of information that will be
integrity within the Métis Nation–Saskatchewn. addressed at each MNLA. MN–S needs to be open,
Ongoing meetings and involvement gives us a transparent and accountable to our Locals as they
strong sense of Métis governance. I would also are who elected us, and give us direction to make
Secretary Candidate
ensure all strong leaders are involved in these decisions that they must approve at the MNLA.
processes via in-person, email or social media.
3. At the November 2019 MNLA several Locals were
As the Secretary, I would work closely with removed and other urban locals were not allowed
the Regional Directors to build capacity within to participate in the meeting. These suspensions
the Regional Councils and Locals by providing were related to regional disputes. As Secretary
support, education, and training to assist them how would you help locals, regions and citizens
to gain infrastructure for office space so they can participate in their governing structures?
offer services and programs for their citizens. I
16 17Secretary Candidate Ashley Norton
Ashley, an ambassador of her culture, and a practice, especially when our regional councils are Moving forward, I will help develop
proud mother of four, two handsome boys and registered with ISC and have many guidelines to communities to do their own training,
two lovely girls. A Matriarch in the making, adhere by. in order for Métis people to govern
she defines herself as an Indigenous feminist, themselves. Internal and external
advocate, and leader. 2. In 2017 the MN–S discontinued the practice of knowledge must be learned and
posting resolutions from its PMC meetings. Instead exchanged to move forward as a
After growing up in the Métis political they opted to post meeting summaries which nation. I will bring in facilitators to host
movements watching and learning, Ashley provide general information. What steps will you workshops that teach Métis governance,
has always said, “My passion is working within take to ensure that Métis citizens are informed of asset building, team building, and bylaw
Indigenous communities,” and in order to decisions and directions made by the PMC and workshops. I will focus on building up
do this she has achieved many certifications MNLA? the Métis councils to be the leaders they
in facilitating community work. Ashley has a are now and in the future. Mentorship is
passion for learning and teaching culture, and Firstly, I will make sure that Métis citizens are important.
has developed projects and initiatives in many informed of the decisions and direction taken at
communities. Revitalization of Métis culture and the PMC and MNLA by having meeting minutes,
healing and wellness is important to Ashley. resolutions, and motions made available to all
citizens. Transparency is an absolute must.
1. The MN–S Constitution (Regions, Section
10) states that “the Regional Council shall I am all for having strong and open communication
provide direction to their representatives on through different media outlets such as the MN–S
the Provincial Métis Council with respect to all website. I will ensure communication is flowing
matters…” In the last term a number of regions and open at the regional and local level. I believe
struggled to hold regional council meetings it is up to all the leaders around the table to help
and in some cases no meetings were held. What disperse the information from MN–S meetings. Our
steps will you take to ensure Local and Regional people are important to this governance structure.
Council meetings take place so that they are A proper communication flow chart is important
able to discharge their Constitutional duties? moving forward.
New Nation Magazine • spring 2021
To ensure local and regional council meetings 3. At the November 2019 MNLA several Locals were
take place, go through the list of regional removed and other urban locals were not allowed
councils and locals, marking down who has to participate in the meeting. These suspensions
had meetings, the AGM dates and minutes and were related to regional disputes. As Secretary
then check out each council’s bylaws/terms of how would you help locals, regions and citizens
reference and other governing documents, to participate in their governing structures?
ensure there is a proper system to track this data.
Secretary Candidate
A database to track the progress of Regional I will be hands on in capacity building with regional
Councils and Locals is a must. councils and locals; Internal policies/bylaws are
vital to self-governance. All council members
I would also support regions and locals to should be educated on the structure of the MN–S
function at full capacity. Assist them whenever and how the structure of government works. I will
and wherever help is needed; meeting planning, listen to grievances and help to resolve disputes in
chairing meetings, bylaw development or minute a reasonable and timely fashion, while adhering to
taking. As Secretary I will play a supportive role the constitution and bylaws.
in bringing out their strengths. As a government
18 we must be adhering to the highest standards of 19Treasurer Candidate Earl Cook
1. In 2017 the Métis National Council negotiated 2. In December 2020 the Provincial Métis Council I would first discuss the issue around
a $2.2 billion dollar accord for all Métis in the (PMC) passed an in-camera motion to increase its legalities of divulging certain kinds of
Homeland. For the years 2017-2021, the MN–S salary grid for the 18 PMC members from $66,000 information, with our financial people
will receive over $110 million as their share to a base of $100,600 with a high of $175,000 and legal counsel.
with more to come on the horizon. What is your for the President. These increases were made
vision for making sure Locals have the capacity retroactive to April 1, 2020. In addition, PMC It would need to be an agenda item
to fulfill their obligations (as outlined in the members are allowed to maintain other full-time with the Finance Committee, which has
MN–S Constitution) and that all Métis citizens in employment positions outside of the MN–S. What been chaired by the Minister of Finance.
Saskatchewan prosper from these resources? are your thoughts on the size of Métis Governance Policy would then be developed.
and sustainability of these new salaries?
Locals must have fiscal capacity. Quick books The Finance Committee is also attended
training should be available to them, either Self- government is in perpetuity, as we by the Chief Financial Officer, Chief of
centrally or through the Regional budget. are recognized in Canada’s constitution, so Staff and other senior staff.
sustainability is not a question.
Communication is a must, so, perhaps some
assistance with phones and internet. Having two jobs is an issue that must be addressed
in the near future. One cannot do justice to the
In Northern Region 1, we supplied each Local Métis Nation work if they are holding down two
President with a computer, printer, and refunded jobs. This situation exists because Area Directors
them $25.00 a month for phone/internet. weren’t paid previously. The level of salaries
The equipment would be transferred to any now, changes the situation. From 2013 to 2017 I
incoming new President. was able to serve as Area Director because I was
employed and we met on weekends, so it didn’t
Many Local executives use their vehicles to travel affect our jobs. This should be a topic of discussion
within communities, perhaps some mileage at an MNLA.
from the Region.
Policy must be developed on this.
They must know their role, perhaps a list of ‘must
New Nation Magazine • spring 2021
know’: constitution, election act, structure of 3. The PMC will make available for public review…
MN–S, affiliates and their role and some training the expense and salaries claimed by each
in these areas. Many Local presidents have Individual Executive Member, Minister, Portfolio
jobs, so they should be compensated some Director, and every member of the PMC. Any
how through Regional budgets, which will be member of the Métis Nation shall have access to
increased substantially after the election. these records” (PMC Handbook, 2019, Section
11.0). To date access to these expenses has not
Treasurer Candidate
been made available. As treasurer, how will you
provide transparency and accountability to Métis
citizens?
Transparency is very important. Financial
information after certain levels must be made
public. For example in the provincial government,
anything over $50,000 is listed.
20 21Treasurer Candidate Louis G. Gardiner
I was born and raised in the historic Métis the new framework with a dollar amount attached
community of Île-à-la-Crosse. Family of six to it and present it to our Métis politicians to take As a Métis citizen and my experience as
children and sixteen grandchildren. My parents to Ottawa and Regina. a Métis politician, the biggest issue that
lived the Traditional way of life, and my family always comes up is the nation’s finances.
is carrying on the tradition. I was elected 2. In December 2020 the Provincial Métis Council With our Rights being recognized, there
Regional Director in 2007 and appointed interim (PMC) passed an in-camera motion to increase its will be more money flowing to the
Treasurer in 2010, and elected in 2012. My salary grid for the 18 PMC members from $66,000 Nation. To be fair to both sides, I want to
Governance credentials include Chairperson for to a base of $100,600 with a high of $175,000 put together a Treasury Board consisting
Île-à-la-Crosse School Division for twelve years, for the President. These increases were made of Métis citizens who have experience
Chairperson for Northlands College for six years, retroactive to April 1, 2020. In addition, PMC in financial management to be the
SIAST (Sask Polytech) board of directors for five members are allowed to maintain other full-time eyes of the Métis people, and they will
years. Northern Village of Île-à-la-Crosse Council employment positions outside of the MN–S. What report back to the Métis people. Terms
for three years. I have a Forestry and Computer are your thoughts on the size of Métis Governance of Reference will need to be developed
Support Technician Diplomas. I live a healthy and sustainability of these new salaries? on the roles and responsibilities of the
lifestyle. Treasury board. Financial reports will be
Over the years, there have been Governance made available on the website. I believe
1. In 2017 the Métis National Council negotiated reviews done by MN–S with funding from the that this will allow the PMC to do their
a $2.2 billion dollar accord for all Métis in the federal government. What do we want to do with work and have the trust of the Métis
Homeland. For the years 2017-2021, the MN–S these reports? (Lampard, One World, Poitras, people.
will receive over $110 million as their share Deloitte). The information provides strong
with more to come on the horizon. What is your recommendations as to how we can govern our CONTACT
vision for making sure Locals have the capacity Nation. Reports call for a judiciary body within our Louis G Gardiner
to fulfill their obligations (as outlined in the Nation and recommendations on our Governance 639-832-7999 (cell) 306-833-2007(h)
MN–S Constitution) and that all Métis citizens in and regions as per Boundary Act (MN–S legislation). l.gardiner@sasktel.net
Saskatchewan prosper from these resources? I would push for a review of these reports and make Facebook - Louis G Gardiner
the information available to our Métis people for
We would take a complete review of the their input. The communities should give the Métis
agreement and assess how we would proceed politicians (PMC) direction as to how we want
New Nation Magazine • spring 2021
in distributing funds. We would ensure that to proceed with the reports. Salary increases for
Governance and community capacity are the PMC needs to be reviewed. What process was
available to our communities to ensure that followed, and how did they reach this number? I
our programs and services run effectively believe that an external body other than the PMC
and all Métis citizens benefit. Would do a needs to put a package together to present to the
needs assessment with the full involvement MNLA.
of our communities and put together a sound
Treasurer Candidate
work plan. We would set up Program Centres 3. The PMC will make available for public review…
throughout the province, supporting our the expense and salaries claimed by each
communities in delivering programs and Individual Executive Member, Minister, Portfolio
services. They would work directly with the Director, and every member of the PMC. Any
communities or groups and away from politics. member of the Métis Nation shall have access to
We must separate programs and services and these records” (PMC Handbook, 2019, Section
politics. Discussions would also need to occur 11.0). To date access to these expenses has not
with our Métis citizens on a new agreement as the been made available. As treasurer, how will you
existing agreement will expire in 2021. I strongly provide transparency and accountability to Métis
22 agree that the Grassroots people should write citizens? 23Treasurer Candidate Melvina Goulet
My name is Melvina Goulet, and Prince Albert including minutes, and supplies to carry out its Any member of the Métis Nation shall
has been my home since 1989 with my two duties for Métis citizens. I would like to see all our have access to these records” (PMC
children. I was born and raised in Cumberland Locals have the training to meet industry for duty Handbook, 2019, Section 11.0). To
House with family ties to the Red River area. to consult matters; and negotiate for Métis rights date access to these expenses has not
My background is in human services as a to a land base, harvest, trap and fish. been made available. As treasurer,
public servant for 29 years with the provincial how will you provide transparency and
government with experience supervising staff, 2. In December 2020 the Provincial Métis Council accountability to Métis citizens?
contract management, criminal justice system, (PMC) passed an in-camera motion to increase its
and child welfare. salary grid for the 18 PMC members from $66,000 As the elected Treasurer, I will be
to a base of $100,600 with a high of $175,000 fully compliant and work with our
I bring to the role of Treasurer my knowledge for the President. These increases were made accountants to ensure these expenses
of governance frameworks to ensure that retroactive to April 1, 2020. In addition, PMC are available to the Métis Nation
fiscal accountability and risk is mitigated; and members are allowed to maintain other full-time Legislative Assembly (MNLA) as part of
my experience with transfer agreements and employment positions outside of the MN–S. What the Treasurer’s report and part of the
financial analysis to ensure public funds are are your thoughts on the size of Métis Governance Audit. The PMC Handbook outlines the
spent appropriately. and sustainability of these new salaries? policy, so as the Treasurer I would work
with the Auditor and Finance Manager
1. In 2017 the Métis National Council negotiated It is my belief the Provincial Métis Council (PMC) to set up the individual salary and
a $2.2 billion dollar accord for all Métis in the answers to the people who elected them to expenses records subject to disclosure.
Homeland. For the years 2017-2021, the MN–S represent them at the regional and provincial I believe that full disclosure of
will receive over $110 million as their share level. The PMC should be providing full disclosure expenditures will provide transparency
with more to come on the horizon. What is your and approval to request salary increases to the and accountability to the MNLA and
vision for making sure Locals have the capacity Métis Nation Legislative Assembly (MNLA) then General Assembly, so they are able to
to fulfill their obligations (as outlined in the ratification from the General Assembly. We’ve been provide us with the direction to guide
MN–S Constitution) and that all Métis citizens in told that our Métis Nation–Saskatchewan (MN–S) our Métis Nation. Once these have been
Saskatchewan prosper from these resources? is a government, but it is reliant on federal funding approved and passed by our MNLA and
to operate at this time. These salary increases are General Assembly, these documents
My vision is to build the MN–S budget from not sustainable in the long term, especially when shall be available to citizens upon
New Nation Magazine • spring 2021
2021-25 to include funding for the purpose the needs of our Métis locals or citizens have not request from the local, regional or provincial
of building capacity and infrastructure at been met. As Treasurer, this will be adjusted to offices. Public funds are subject to disclosure
the local level based on the needs identified ensure sustainability with consultation of the our including salaries and expenses of elected officials
by the Métis citizens at the local level. Our Métis citizens. and employees.
constitution provides Locals to seek funding
to carry out programs, services, and objectives The roles and responsibility of PMC members is a CONTACT
with PMC of the MNLA to secure funding, and full-time job and critical elected officials commit Melvina Goulet
Treasurer Candidate
the MNC Accord has negotiated funding to do fully, so they can lobby, support, and assist locals #1–807–7th Street East
so. The MN–S budget for the 2021-2025 must to build capacity and negotiate with federal and Prince Albert, SK S6V 6T3
include building capacity at the local level to provincial governments. PMC elected members E: electmevlinagoulet@gmail.com
ensure our Métis citizens can take an active should not hold employment positions outside of T: (306)-764-3888
part in governance and duty to consult, self- MN–S. Facebook: Elect Melvina Goulet–MNS Treasurer
government, land claims, housing, education
needs, human services programs, and economic 3. The PMC will make available for public
development opportunities. Our locals need review…the expense and salaries claimed by
staffing and training to maintain their corporate each Individual Executive Member, Minister,
24 standing, membership lists and documents Portfolio Director, and every member of the PMC. 25Treasurer Candidate Harmonie Amanda King
I was born & raised in Meadow Lake, SK. I’m the $175,000 for the President. These increases were 3. The PMC will make available for
daughter of Gwen & Daniel King. I’ve entered made retroactive to April 1, 2020. In addition, PMC public review…the expense and
this race with intentions of generating greater members are allowed to maintain other full-time salaries claimed by each Individual
interest in the political processes among Métis employment positions outside of the MN–S. What Executive Member, Minister, Portfolio
Youth, being the youngest candidates running are your thoughts on the size of Métis Governance Director, and every member of the PMC.
for an Executive Position. and sustainability of these new salaries? Any member of the Métis Nation shall
have access to these records” (PMC
I’m an advocate for Mental Health supports, It’s obvious we need to focus on building unity with Handbook, 2019, Section 11.0). To
with over ten years of experience working in a focus on Self-government. Disappointingly we date access to these expenses has not
youth empowerment, development, family can be mean to one another and this is not what been made available. As treasurer,
supports, healing and economic opportunities. is best. My grandfather Ric Richardson, former how will you provide transparency and
I’m trained in Crisis Response, Trauma Informed mayor of Green Lake, taught me that as individuals accountability to Métis citizens?
Approaches, Suicide Intervention, Mental Health we are at the center of a much bigger circle–and all
First Aid, Psychological First Aid & Recovery. strength comes from the core. So, we must focus I believe that accountability is important
I have a Youth Care Worker Diploma, and a on promoting healing of individuals, families and however it should not be used as an
Bachelors of Social Work Degree. communities. As we build community and local opportunity to conduct a witch hunt.
strength we can move from the center of the circle As a new Candidate I believe that
1. In 2017 the Métis National Council negotiated and focus on healing our Nation. Healing however issues relating to transparency and
a $2.2 billion dollar accord for all Métis in the is not just the Métis Nations responsibility it is the accountability should be embedded in
Homeland. For the years 2017-2021, the MN–S responsibility of all of the Métis Governments. In the Constitution and not a Handbook!!
will receive over $110 million as their share my view we need to stop bickering about who gets
with more to come on the horizon. What is your what, how much people get and work together at
vision for making sure Locals have the capacity all levels individual, local, regional and provincial.
to fulfill their obligations (as outlined in the In order to move forward we must work together
MN–S Constitution) and that all Métis citizens in respectfully at all levels.
Saskatchewan prosper from these resources?
From my perspective all elected officials should
I believe this question posed is inherently be remunerated at the same level as other
New Nation Magazine • spring 2021
biased, disrespectful and a plug for the Métis Governments. It’s important to note that we’re
National Council, It’s a discredit to current not a Non-Profit Corporation, we’re a government
elected representatives. As a candidate I see and we need to start acting like Governments.
opportunity for me to bridge the generational Our Citizens deserve to know the Métis Nation of
gap, however, I don’t feel that I need to underplay Saskatchewan can operate on a level playing field
the significant accomplishments of the Métis with other Governments. To stand toe to toe with
Nation Saskatchewan government, by saying other Governments–who’s bureaucrats in most
Treasurer Candidate
look what the MNC did for our communities. cases are paid at the same level as the recent
To be clear I support Nation building, but I am salary increases. I was raised around politics; I saw
also aware that a so-called identity agenda is my grandpa Rod Bishop and Grandpa Edward King
being used as a tool to polarize our peoples and die poor men. When there should have been Métis
communities in Saskatchewan. government pensions for all of their hard work for
the Métis–I support these pay raises–dam straight
2. In December 2020 the Provincial Métis Council I do–we get what we pay for–if we want to continue
(PMC) passed an in-camera motion to increase to attract the caliber of candidates then we should
its salary grid for the 18 PMC members from be prepared to ante up and start de-colonizing our
26 $66,000 to a base of $100,600 with a high of way of thinking. 27You can also read
