Volume 1 No. 6
April 10, 1992
KAHNAWAKE MOHAWK TERRITORY
Volume 1 No. 6
April 10, 1992
KAHNAWAKE MOHAWK TERRITORY
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On Friday, April 3, the Kahnawake Economic Development Group held a luncheon at the Knights of Columbus hall. This event, which sold some 350 tickets, featured Assembly of First Nations Chief Ovide Mercredi as guest speaker. Community elder Frank Natawe began in traditional fashion with the Opening. This was immediately followed by a formal introduction of Mercredi by Mohawk Council Grand Chief Joe Norton.
Norton called Mercredi's visit an "historic occasion". He described the AFN leader as someone who has "upheld the Aboriginal cause in this country" and kept Native issues" in the forefront: both here and abroad. He also took this opportunity to welcome Mercredi to Kahnawake, hoping that his visit would provide him with an "understanding of this community" and a "good impression" of our people. This went along with hopes that the AFN leader would "leave something to sustain us into the future" as well.
Mercredi addressed the audience at length. His initial message was one of solidarity. He said that is was "vital to our success in achieving our goals, that we remain united". Elaborating, he explained that the principle of cooperation is important on both the national and community levels, adding that problems arise when "we turn on each other" instead of working together. He defined solidarity as "maintaining our ability to communicate with each other without any interference by more boundaries created, not by our people, but by other Canadians." (This, is the Canada-Quebec Constitutional context).
Mercredi turned to the issue of military conquest. He described the Crisis of 1990 as "a turmoil that no First Nation, since 1885, has experienced in Canada." That date marks the Riel "Rebellion", for which chief Big Bear of the Cree was later incarcerated at the Stony Mountain prison in Manitoba. After leaving prison, Big Bear found that his people were "dispersed" and his reserve was "disposed of by the government", all in spite of treaties which even included title to the land. Today, as Mercredi explained, the descendants of Big Bear are still alive but their band no longer exists.
Mercredi hoped that as Native people we "would not be so demoralized" by the experience of 1990 that we can't face our problems whether they be long standing or generated by the crisis itself. Furthermore, he expressed his admiration of "the resolve of the Mohawk people" for our commitment to preserving our rights, as is evidenced by the fact that we still have "First Nations" society, despite 500 years of attempted assimilation.
His message emphasized the importance of maintaining our commitment to our rights with which we "will ultimately prevail" over the forces of outside resistance. Progress, he added, will "come from the people" in working together on all levels, not only within Kahnawake itself, but as a whole, within the context of the Mohawk Nation. He also said we should strive to restore our own traditional form of government and, as a people, give it the power of our consent.
Stressing the concept of self-sufficiency, Mercredi noted the importance of economic development. To illustrate the consequences of having one's independence taken away, he described his small Northern Manitoba community, which once had a traditional economy based on trapping, hunting and fishing. As this once proud economy was destroyed by Manitoba Hydro, the "government's response" of social assistance brought with it, as it usually does, a myriad of social problems such as alcoholism and family violence. But even there, he explained, the people are making great strides to rebuild in all aspects of their lives with a spirit of self-reliance.
Mercredi said that he was, "Honored as an individual, to have been invited here by the business members of our community. "He was pleased to see the "atmosphere of self-sufficiency" and "sense of purpose" that is being cultivated here. Business, he stated, is, "Going to create economic opportunities because people are taking the initiative."
Mercredi's address closed by, once again, mentioning the constitutional debate. He stated that there "are no guarantees that we'll succeed in getting recognition of our inherent rights, our collective rights as "First Nation" or as distince people. But if we don't, we are not going to roll over and die. There are many other avenues we can pursue."
One such avenue is the "international stage", but more importantly, he pointed out that, under any circumstances, our best recourse is "acting in our own best interest and doing things for ourselves immediately." He applied this principle to all areas of life, including social, economic and political concerns. He emphasized the importance of believing that our rights exist, and or working together in the "simple practice of applying them in our lives." We must do this, he explained, rather than wait for said rights to be rully recognized as such a wait may last "another 500 years". Mercredi's final words: "The future is in your hands. It's whatever you do that's going to determine whether you have them (rights) or not."
Following Ovide Mercredi's address, those in attendance lined up for a tasty luncheon prepared by Louisa Deer. Kahnawake Economic Development Group, who did most of the organizing for this event, told The Eastern Door that proceeds will be going towards the KEDG's "Young Entrepreneur" program. Overall the day was a great success!
After the meal was served, Mercredi personally thanked the chef and her assistants. He then returned to the stage to field questions from the audience. In this brief session, he was asked to elaborate on the upcoming referendum. His advice for Native people regarding this issue was that we should not participate in such votes since in doing so "our voice would be lost in the majority." Furthermore, we would "undermine our own assertion that we are distince people." He made it clear that "the best way to preserve our power and ability to make choices for ourselves is to negotiate with governments 'Nation to Nation'."
Mercredi was also asked about the Great Whale Hydro project. He said the AFN will continue to support the Cree people in their opposition to the project with whatever "political action" that's necessary. Another person asked if, in his opinion, Mercredi thought that the government was capable of "good faith" regarding the constitutional process. He just grinned without saying a word. Finally, a question was asked about the keeping of personal records (i.e.: birth certificates etc.). As this is an "effect example" of a fundamental right, he explained that, instead of filing our personal records outside the territory while waiting for "permission" to do it ourselves, we should just go ahead and "create our own central registry." He stated, "The best way to protect your right is to practice it."
Following the questions, Mercredi was presented with a beaded belt commemorating his visit. Frank Natawe ended with the Closing and Kahnawake's guest went on to Survival School
At the school he met with approximately 100 students and gave them a few words of advice. As students he reminded them that this was the best time to develop a more "considered approach to life". He told them they should make the "best use" of this time as it "will slip by very quickly". He also explained that there are two kinds of learning: "job skills" and "traditional knowledge". Job skills, he said, "can be learned any time" whereas "learning how to conduct yourself, and learning how to become an effective human being, is the most important knowledge you can have." He expressed his hoped that teachers, parents and leaders provide this traditional knowledge to the students, explaining that it will give them the self respect and human relations skills needed to "meet obstacles, face challenges and succeed in endeavours." Furthermore, he said the students should try to make such traditional knowledge "part of their lifestyle" as doing so would make them "stronger as individuals".
At that point the students were invited to ask questions, as well as give Mercredi their points of view. The exchange began with a student asking about self-government and sovereignty, wanting to know whether or not there was a difference between the two. He explained that mere words were not at all important. What is important is conduct "what matters is what we do" (to exercise our rights).
In addition, Mercredi's explained the socio-political reality of our time. If we cannot realistically and practically be 100% sovereign, then let's not worry about having a relationship with other governments. What matters is how we go about having that relationship. In his words "a mariage between man and woman doesn't change the sexes...It's the same think between nations. When one nation enters into an agreement with another, it shouldn't result in the subjugation of one to the other."
In further explanation, Mercredi pointed out that an equal relationship between the Assembly of First Nations and the non-Native government(s) is not important. He mentioned that the AFN is only a political body and not a national government. "The AFN is there to lobby for the rights and freedoms of Aboriginal people." Wht matters is equality in actual Nation to Nation relations. For Native people in Canada, Mercredi states that "rule of law for them should not mean delegated authority for us!"
Another student asked the AFN leader if he considered himself to be a Canadian citizen. Mercredi explained that "first and foremost" he is a human being. Beyond this all other "affiliations" are "a matter of personal choice". He said that he was at peace with himself in being "a member of the Canadian Nation State" as well as being a Cree. He does not feel obligated to denounce anything" (such as Canadian citizenship). As he explained, to denounce is not the way of our people. Everybody is entitled to their own personal choice and we should, in accordance with our traditions. He added, "if you try to impose a political thought or opinion on everybody else, there will be no harmony."
Shortly thereafter, issue was taken with the question of support (or lack thereof) of elected leaders such as in the "Band Council" system. Mercredi addressed the aggressive anti-electoral sentiments by reminding the students, once again, of the importance of respect. He referred to the students' expression of hostility as "divisive" and as an example of "colonial thought", saying that such attitudes will "keep our community fighting (amongst itself)". He advised the students to work towards finding a system that is "acceptable to all" rather than make choices between elected and traditional leaders. He pointed out that he has "no admiration for the Indian Act...non whatsoever". But he reminded the students that "our people did not make it (the Indian Act)"; a "White Parliament" did!
A final comment from the student body was to the effect that the Great Law of Peace was the only way to get back on track. Mercredi explained that, because "society has changed" we have to take into account the "current situation". He said that if we can, we should "apply it (the Great Law) without changes"; but if it has to be applied with changes, the bottom line is that no matter what law we uphold "It's still our Law." He stressed, however, that any decisions we make about our leadership "are going to take some time to be accepted." Ultimately, he clarified, what is important is consent.
Afterwards, Mercredi was presented with a Survival School sweat suit. He then thanked the students for their comments, candor and convictions.
During a following press conference, Mercredi was dealt a barrage of questions that covered a wide range of topics. In his responses, he indicated that he felt well received by all the people and that he was pleased with the response of the Survival School students.
On economic development, he told the press that there's "A lot of progress here in Kahnawake." Mercredi was also asked if he was a sovereigntist. In the constitutional context, he said he wasn't, and in terms of First Nations, he indicated that he was not an extreme sovereigntist, saying that "even Canada is not fully sovereign."
When asked about the Oka crisis, he said "more can be done" in terms of restoring "mobility rights" to the Mohawk people, citing the "strong police presence" that has lingered on. Of Oka's constitutional impact, he stated that both Oka and Meech Lake "had a lot to do with current interest in the resolution of Indian issues in Canada."
On the Constitutional debate itself, Mercredi said he "believes in the process"; however, he also said that it is "difficult to see good faith when Bourassa isn't at the table. Finally, one news-hound paraphrased Joe Clark as having said that neither Bourassa, Alberta, nor Ovide Mercredi will get everything they want from the constitutional debate. He quickly replied, "neither will Joe Clark". However, he added that he was not going to bargain away the self-respect of First Nations!"
A Mohawk Council of Kahnawake directive was issued to override the Kahnawake Peacekeepers in their February 26 suspension of Officer John K. Diabo. This was made public at the Community Meeting of March 31. As a result of the directive, Diabo was placed back on duty as of April 1, with full compensation for benefits he may have lost during the suspension.
Officer Warren White of the Peacekeepers explained that the suspension was carried out in the first place because the Peacekeepers' Code of Ethics Manual required it under the circumstances. The circumstances were in reference to the incident of October 15, 1992 on Route 207 which triggered the whole controversy. White pointed out that the Peacekeepers are absolutely bound by this code, and had no choice in the matter.
However the Mohawk Council of Kahnawake does have the authority to override the manual, which they did in this instance in response to public concerns. The Council cited the fact that during the incident, Diabo was only defending a fellow Mohawk from RCMP physical abuse.
Both Diabo and his fellow officers are pleased with his reinstatement. Diabo in particular expressed his gratitude regarding the outcome of the whole affair. He feels that the publicity concerning the matter helped him to get reinstated.
Unfortunately, charges of obstruction and assault must still be addressed. A special prosecutor and a judge from outside the Longueuil jurisdiction will be involved in the case.
After five weeks and the processing of approximately 2,250 prospective jurors, three jurors have been selected for the trial of the 39 accused stemming from the stand-off at the Treatment Centre in Kanehsatake, 1990. The defense has selected 29 others as suitable but the Crown has set these aside. There are now approximately 270 prospective jurors left from which to choose the remainder. However, the defense still has over 200 pre-emptive challenges in hand.
As the end of the list gets near, the question is: are there enough prospective jurors in the Montreal area to start the trial? That is, are there enough prospective jurors who have not been affected by the media coverage of the events of 1990 to render an impartial decision? If this batch runs out, it is quite possible that the Crown may have to order a dragnet to gather candidates from the streets and shopping malls in order to fill the bench. If they decide not to, they must withdraw all charges or declare a mistrial.
To add to the equation, Crown Prosecutor Briere has been taken off the case to assume the position as Assistant Chief Crown under Chief Teasdale at St. Jerome. Mr Boyer remains as Crown for this case. The last day of jury selection for this batch is April 29.
Citing outrage at an apparent discrepancy between Hydro-Quebec's treatment for Natives, as opposed to their treatment of industry, Kahnawake resident, Carl "BoBo" Curotte, is taking the defiant stand of non-payment for his personal electricity consumption. It is Curotte's belief that because corporate entities (such as "smeltering companies") are getting preferred rates while Native people are being served wholesale "expropriation" in lieu of money owed them from resources (through treaties), he is justified in his actions.
Curotte explains that "by making this stand (non-payment), it (said discrepancy) would be brought to the attention of whoever is in charge." He added that he chooses "not to go through the Indian Act system" as he feels it is extremely limited.
Curotte's actions in this matter are a source of much controversy in Kahnawake. He was asked if he thought his defiant stand was putting the rest of the community in jeopardy, compromising its public image. In his reply, he said he felt that his position, "will bring about the respect our people were (historically) deprived of."
Curotte admits to an accrued debt of some $5,000 which he has not paid to the utility, since he first took his stand in October of 1989. Dwayne White of the Mohawk Council of Kahnawake said that Carl Curotte has been "on the list" for the disconnection of his electrical service since November 1991. As such, Curotte excpects that, as the warm weather arrives, his service could, in fact, be terminated "any day."
Curotte was asked what his response to disconnection of service would be. He said he would try "legal action" on an "international level." Regardless, all local officals have made it perfectly clear that utility bills must be paid. If they are not, service will be terminated! This is just standard business policy, and everyday common sense.
When the Europeans first came to North America, we should have passed a law that made them speak our language. We should have made them write their books in our language. We should have made them follow our laws. We should have charged them rent and taxed them into submission. We should have made them follow our justice system and punished them whenever they resisted our rule. And if they ever showed disloyalty or treason, we would send these ungrateful people back to where they came from.
Instead, we respected their right to be themselves. We were willing to share this vast land of ours and we made treates with them without surrendering our own sovereignty or territory. They in turn took advantage of us and continued to violate the principles of the Two Row relationship we had developed. They punished us for speaking our language, disparaged us in their books, took our land, forced their laws on us, imprisoned our people, separated our children from their parents, disempowered and impoverished our people.
And Lise Bacon wonders out loud if the Cree (and by extension the Mohawks, MicMacs, Montaingais, etc.) are loyal Quebecers or not?
For what and for who do we owe any loyalty to?
From the moment of contact through the destruction of Louis Riel, the salmon war against the MicMac in the 1980s, to the crisis of 1990, we have been in constant conflict, with occasional outbreaks of peace. The James Bay Agreement exists only because a judge stopped the project for five days, not because Quebecers (at least those Quebecers in power) felt they needed the permission of the Cree to flooe their land. The Cree signed under great pressure while construction was continuing. Even after the Agreement was signed, the Cree had to bring the Quebec Government to court to force them to live up to their part of the Agreement.
Bacon and her comments are arrogant, narrow-minded, ethnocentric, ignorant, inflammatory, and insulting. Hers are the comments of the Archie Bunkers of the world and are not worthy of a person in such position of authority.
Unfortunately, making such statements about the Aboriginal people of this land is acceptable and is just another example of the institutionalized racism we face every day. Had she made the same remark about the Jewish population of Quebec, would the public reaction be different?
The Cree are loyal to the land and all the gifts the Creator gives them. They are a proud and dignified people. They are struggling to survive just as we are. They have respected us and helped us when we needed them. They are certainly more rational, diplomatic and understanding that the people who critize them.
They have earned our respect and therefore our loyalty.
Bacon could learn a lesson from this.
Frank goes for points against an opponent, Photo credits Mary Deer
Kahnawake will be represented at the upcoming world junior wrestling championships after Frank Deer won the Canadian Junior title at 81 kg this past weekend in London, Ontario.
Deer, competing for the Montreal Wrestling Club, was undefeated in 5 matches, winning 4 by pins. The 17 year old, coached by the renowned Victor Zilberman, virtually assured himself a place on the Canadian team which will compete at the World Juniors in Cali, Colombia the last weekend in June.
The Kahnawake wrestler felt that he got off to a slow start on the weekend, but finished strongly expecially in the final where he defeated Kevin Coghill of Essex, Ontario by pin.
"The final was the toughest, it was 0-0 in the 4th minute as both of us were cautions, but then I managed the pin late in the match". He added that "My technique got me through. Coach Zilberman emphasizes technique and a lot of our training is repetition of moves". Deer went on to elaborate about the sometimes 30 hours a week of training that he puts into his sport.
This was the second Canadian championship in 5 years of wrestling for Frank. Previously, he was victorous in the 1989 Bantam Championships. Last year he didn't fare as well as he'd hoped in the cadet finals, but he partly attributed this year's success to the 1991 results. He was more motivated and mentally prepared. "Last year I wasn't lacking in the physical ability and technique, but my mental preparation wasn't what it should have been."
Prospects for future success look good, considering that he is in his first year in the junior age category. In upcoming years Frank hopes to continue wrestling at a high level and he realizes the commitment that continued success will require.
For now, his sights are set on attending a national junior camp in preparation for the worlds. Expect to hear more about this young man in the near future.
Also competing at the above mentioned championships were five other Kahnawake wrestlers. Although not taking any medals, reports were that all five wom some matches and generally gave a good account of themselves at this very challenging meet. Over 450 wrestlers were in attendance with Kahnawake being represented by Ben Pinsonneault, Joel Montour, Kanientaa Cross and Carl Horn of Kahnawake Survival School, along with Ralph Mayo of Howard S. Billings. Coach David Canadian wanted to emphasize that "people knew we were there by our solid performance and it was a really good experience for the guys."
Thanks go out to the Kahnawake Education Center and the Mohawk Council of Kahnawake for their assistance.
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