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Curve Lake storyteller keeps culture alive at storytelling festival

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Curve Lake storyteller Mike Ormsby speaks about the importance of storytelling during the Keeping Culture Alive discussion event on May 10 at the Toronto International Storytelling Festival.

By Rick Garrick

TORONTO — Curve Lake storyteller Mike Ormsby and Iranian-Dutch storyteller Sahand Sahebdivani highlighted the importance of storytelling during their Keeping Culture Alive discussion on May 10 at the Toronto International Storytelling Festival.

“I’m half [Anishinabek] and half Irish — which is really unique because I come from two oral traditions, both the Irish and the Anishinabek are storytellers,” Ormsby says. “The Irish and the Anishinabek both went through a lot of things dealing with this wonderful thing called colonization. In my situation I didn’t know I was Anishinabek until I was 17-years-old.”

Ormsby says his grandmother, whom he was very close to, was sent to one of the Spanish Indian Residential Schools when she was six-years-old and was gone for 12 years.

“To know where you’re going you have to know where you came from, and I had to find out about my family,” Ormsby says. “Most of the stories that I share as an Anishinabek storyteller are stories I was taught, and there are usually teachings involved in those. But some of the stories I share are either personal stories like my own history or stories about our people. We have lots of different stories.”

Ormsby says he learned about his culture and his traditions through learning stories, whether it was oral stories, songs, rock paintings, or bark scrolls.

“Those old stories are as new today as they were when they were first told, those teachings are as new today as they were when they were first told because they have not lost their meaning,” Ormsby says.

Ormsby says the young people are asking for those teachings and those stories.

“Some stories I can share and some I can’t,” Ormsby says. “You have to understand that for a long time as a people, we weren’t allowed to even talk about these things, we weren’t allowed to share those things, we weren’t allowed to practice our traditions, our beliefs. It was outlawed — people would end up in jail for it.”

Sahebdivani says although he is connected to an ancient tradition of stories that are thousands of years old, he also learned stories from his family.

“I have been able to listen to my dad telling me stories about how he had fallen in love with my mom,” Sahebdivani says. “And how the parents of my mom had met and how the parents of my dad had met and what that meant, and what it was like to be in prison for four years and the woman that you’ve married comes once a month to visit and what it means to have to flee.”

Sahebdivani says a group of youth he worked with in the Netherlands did not have a common language with their parents because their parents speak their own language and the youth speak Dutch.

“By not speaking the same language, they don’t have these simple stories from their parents and they don’t have an interest, they’re raised to be very angry and they don’t want to know, of course underneath they want to,” Sahebdivani says. “So they don’t know what it meant for their parents or for their grandparents to leave their country behind, what it meant for their grandmothers to miss their grandfathers, to wait for that bit of money to come after some years to take all the kids that were left behind to come, they don’t have these stories. And not having these stories means that you don’t have a direct link just to the one before you and the one before.”

The Toronto International Storytelling Festival was held from May 5-14, with many events streamed online.

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Regional Facilitator – Lake Huron Region

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ANISHINABEK NATION

“To give a voice to the vision of the Anishinabek Nation and to preserve

 Anishinaabe Bimaadziwin while advancing our goal of Nationhood.”

Employment Opportunity

Regional Facilitator – Lake Huron Region

LOCATION:  Negotiable. Preference for the successful candidate to work out of the Head Office located in Nipissing First Nation

Full-Time Position with Benefits

(after successfully completing 3 months of employment)

Salary Range: $63,282 to $71,719

The Anishinabek Nation Social Development Department is looking to hire two Regional Facilitators to support Anishinabek communities with the implementation of the Anishinabek Nation Circle Process for child, youth, and family well-being. Applicants must have a passion for building capacity for Anishinabek First Nations and demonstrate experience in community development, particularly with regards to Indigenous children, and youth well-being. Applicants must also be familiar with the Anishinabek Nation, its strategic direction, and priorities. The Regional Facilitators will report to and receive direction from the Lead Facilitator.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Post-secondary diploma or university degree in social sciences, child and youth services or other related discipline(s) with a minimum of two (2) years of relevant experience;
Must provide a Vulnerable Sector Check and CPIC for this position;
Knowledge and experience with negotiations, mediation, Indigenous circles or other Indigenous dispute resolution processes;
Knowledge of child welfare matters, and a general understanding of court processes regarding child welfare matters will be considered an asset;
Ability to understand and speak Anishinaabemowin or willingness to learn is an asset;
Experience working with children, youth, and families within the child welfare system will be considered an asset;
Valid Ontario driver’s license and be insurable; and
Strong knowledge and understanding of Anishinabek culture, practices, and communities.

REQUIRED SKILLS:

Strong computer background in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint;
Ability to handle multiple tasks and prioritize competing demands to ensure efficient coordination;
Ability to work independently and as a member of a team; and
Strong written, verbal and interpersonal skills.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Attend the Circle Process training for facilitators;
Oversee the coordination of the Circle Process within their respective region(s);
Liaise with Anishinabek First Nation communities, particularly with Band/First Nation representatives, on request(s) for the Circle Process;
Gather and provide input into resources to support the Circle Process for Child and Youth Well-Being Facilitators and others who may be directly involved in implementing the Circle Process;
Share best practices for the Circle Process with support personnel and staff;
Submit regular reports and enter all Circles into the Master Schedule of Circles;
Provide weekly reviews and updates of Circles to the Lead Facilitator;
Respond to general program inquiries, and ensure appropriate and timely follow-up;
Prepare agendas, workshop/meeting kits, arrange and coordinate meeting facilities as required;
Conduct regular interviews and meetings with families as it relates to the pre-circle and post-circle processes;
Conduct follow-up sessions, with all appropriate participants as outlined in the policies of the Circle Process;
Conduct pre-circle sessions with all participants as outlined through training;
Work with the Lead Facilitator to ensure the organization, facilitation, and follow-up of all Circles follows established policies for the Circle Process;
Submit information to an electronic and central filing system of information related to the areas of responsibility;
Maintain knowledge of current social services policies and programs as it relates to the Anishinabek Nation, and attend relevant training opportunities;
Provide support and information to Anishinabek First Nations through written correspondence and reports as approved by the Lead Facilitator;
Keep thorough records of all activities to submit to Lead Facilitator in a timely manner; and
Other duties as assigned.

APPLICATIONS MUST INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:

Cover letter;
Resume;
Three (3) employment references;
Identify whether the applicant has been previously employed by the Anishinabek Nation (formerly Union of Ontario Indians); and the organization will conduct a reference check with the previous immediate supervisor;
Identify whether the applicant is a member of one of the 39 Anishinabek First Nations. Preference will be given to applicants who are a member of one of the 39 Anishinabek First Nations.
Qualified applicants of Indigenous ancestry will be given preference in accordance with s. 16(1) of the “Canadian Human Rights Act

The Anishinabek Nation welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities.  Accommodations are available upon request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the hiring process.

Applications must be received no later than 4:30pm on Friday, June 16, 2023.

Applications must be submitted to:

Glenda St. Amour

Director of Corporate Services

Fax: (705) 497-9135 | Email: glenda.st-amour@anishinabek.ca

For inquiries regarding this position, please contact:

Vicky Laforge, Lead Facilitator to the Anishinabek Nation Circle Process

Email: vicky.laforge@anishinabek.ca

Miigwech to all applicants for their interest, however, only those who qualify for an interview will be contacted.

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Finance and Operations Director – B’Maakonigan

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EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Finance and Operations Director – B’Maakonigan

Posting Date: June 2, 2023

Job Type: Full-time

Salary:  To be determined based on qualifications and experience

Benefits: Comprehensive benefit plan available

Application Deadline: June 16, 2023

Location: Negotiable

B’Maakinogan:

B’Maakonigan is a newly-established governance entity established to support the implementation of the Anishinabek Nation Governance Agreement. Working with the five First Nations that have ratified the Governance Agreement, as well as any First Nations that ratify the Agreement in the future, the Finance and Operations Director will be responsible for the overall financial activities of the organization while providing guidance, support, and risk controls on financial management and consideration to senior management and the Board of Directors.

What You Bring With You:

You are grounded in Anishinaabe aadziwin and will bring creativity and energy to building a new Anishinaabe Government. Your work experience in finance and supporting organizational operations have provide you with the expertise to deliver finance policies and activities through a risk management perspective. You have the ability to utilize all resources to its fullest capacity to support the operations strategic direction.

The Finance and Operations Director oversees the budgets and accounting functions including cash flow and internal controls.  This position will also develop relationships with B’Maakonigan’s member First Nations, auditor, funders, and key organizations that move B’Maakonigan’s vision forward.

What You Will Be Doing:

The Finance and Administration Director will be responsible for:

Overseeing the financial affairs of the organization.
Reporting on the financial affairs to senior management, Board of Directors, B’Maakonigan member First Nations, auditors, etc.
Managing the organization’s budgets.
Acting as a resource person to senior management and the Board of Directors, including explaining and interpreting financial reports and assisting in the preparation of annual budgets and forecasts.
Providing financial backup to senior management on contract negotiations and ensures that arrangements entered into are not in contradiction with the established policies, guidelines and objectives of the organization.
Establishing proper and secure computerization that support staff functions.
Ensuring that the financial and human resources of the organization are managed in light of the stated policies, guidelines and objectives.
Participating in the preparation for negotiations of funding arrangements.
Providing B’Maakonigan Financial Advisor type services to those member First Nations requesting such services, at the direction of senior management.
Identifying potential issues, problems and risks related to B’Maakonigan operations or those of its member nations related to fiscal and operational issues.
Describing technical and financial issues to non-technical and non-financial colleagues and community representatives.
Excelling in written and oral skills including the ability to draft briefing notes, position papers, making recommendations to leadership and deliver presentations to fellow staff and leadership.

Relevant Experience and Education:

Bachelor’s Degree in finance, accounting or related field with a minimum of five years relevant experience.
Certified Public Accountant (preferred).
Demonstrated progression in financial leadership and supervisory roles with at least three years of experience managing the finances of a $5 million non-profit organization.
Strong knowledge of general ledger, banking, job cost accounting, accounts payable, accounts receivable, fixed assets, and non-profit taxes and registrations.
Understanding of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit national organizations and governance structures and processes;
Proficient in the use of financial software programs and Microsoft Office applications.
Thorough understanding of non-profit accounting and Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
Familiarity with Canadian Auditing Standards is preferred.
Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and balance day-to-day tasks with strategic, long-term goals, and timelines.

To learn more about B’Maakonigan, please visit:

https://www.governancevote.ca

If you are interested in this opportunity and want to be a part of this exciting new Anishinaabe Governance organization, please apply online by e-mailing your cover letter, resume, and three (3) references to leslie.mcgregor@anishinabek.ca noting “B’Maakonigan – FOD” in the subject line.

Miigwech to all applicants for their interest; preference will be given to members of the following First Nations that have ratified the Anishinabek Nation Governance Agreement – Wahnapitae, Moose Deer Point, Magnetawan, Zhiibaahaasing, and Nipissing. Other Anishinabek citizens are also encouraged to apply.

Applications must be received no later than 4:30 PM EST on Friday, June 16, 2023.

Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

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Regional Facilitator – Northern Superior Region

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ANISHINABEK NATION

“To give a voice to the vision of the Anishinabek Nation and to preserve

 Anishinaabe Bimaadziwin while advancing our goal of Nationhood.”

Employment Opportunity

Regional Facilitator – Northern Superior Region

LOCATION:  Negotiable. Preference for the successful candidate to work out of the Fort William Satellite Office

Full-Time Position with Benefits

(after successfully completing 3 months of employment)

Salary Range: $63,282 to $71,719

The Anishinabek Nation Social Development Department is looking to hire two Regional Facilitators to support Anishinabek communities with the implementation of the Anishinabek Nation Circle Process for child, youth, and family well-being. Applicants must have a passion for building capacity for Anishinabek First Nations and demonstrate experience in community development, particularly with regards to Indigenous children, and youth well-being. Applicants must also be familiar with the Anishinabek Nation, its strategic direction, and priorities. The Regional Facilitators will report to and receive direction from the Lead Facilitator.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Post-secondary diploma or university degree in social sciences, child and youth services or other related discipline(s) with a minimum of two (2) years of relevant experience;
Must provide a Vulnerable Sector Check and CPIC for this position;
Knowledge and experience with negotiations, mediation, Indigenous circles or other Indigenous dispute resolution processes;
Knowledge of child welfare matters, and a general understanding of court processes regarding child welfare matters will be considered an asset;
Ability to understand and speak Anishinaabemowin or willingness to learn is an asset;
Experience working with children, youth, and families within the child welfare system will be considered an asset;
Valid Ontario driver’s license and be insurable; and
Strong knowledge and understanding of Anishinabek culture, practices, and communities.

REQUIRED SKILLS:

Strong computer background in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint;
Ability to handle multiple tasks and prioritize competing demands to ensure efficient coordination;
Ability to work independently and as a member of a team; and
Strong written, verbal and interpersonal skills.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Attend the Circle Process training for facilitators;
Oversee the coordination of the Circle Process within their respective region(s);
Liaise with Anishinabek First Nation communities, particularly with Band/First Nation representatives, on request(s) for the Circle Process;
Gather and provide input into resources to support the Circle Process for Child and Youth Well-Being Facilitators and others who may be directly involved in implementing the Circle Process;
Share best practices for the Circle Process with support personnel and staff;
Submit regular reports and enter all Circles into the Master Schedule of Circles;
Provide weekly reviews and updates of Circles to the Lead Facilitator;
Respond to general program inquiries, and ensure appropriate and timely follow-up;
Prepare agendas, workshop/meeting kits, arrange and coordinate meeting facilities as required;
Conduct regular interviews and meetings with families as it relates to the pre-circle and post-circle processes;
Conduct follow-up sessions, with all appropriate participants as outlined in the policies of the Circle Process;
Conduct pre-circle sessions with all participants as outlined through training;
Work with the Lead Facilitator to ensure the organization, facilitation, and follow-up of all Circles follows established policies for the Circle Process;
Submit information to an electronic and central filing system of information related to the areas of responsibility;
Maintain knowledge of current social services policies and programs as it relates to the Anishinabek Nation, and attend relevant training opportunities;
Provide support and information to Anishinabek First Nations through written correspondence and reports as approved by the Lead Facilitator;
Keep thorough records of all activities to submit to Lead Facilitator in a timely manner; and
Other duties as assigned.

APPLICATIONS MUST INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:

Cover letter;
Resume;
Three (3) employment references;
Identify whether the applicant has been previously employed by the Anishinabek Nation (formerly Union of Ontario Indians); and the organization will conduct a reference check with the previous immediate supervisor;
Identify whether the applicant is a member of one of the 39 Anishinabek First Nations. Preference will be given to applicants who are a member of one of the 39 Anishinabek First Nations.
Qualified applicants of Indigenous ancestry will be given preference in accordance with s. 16(1) of the “Canadian Human Rights Act

The Anishinabek Nation welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities.  Accommodations are available upon request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the hiring process.

Applications must be received no later than 4:30pm on Friday, June 16, 2023.

Applications must be submitted to:

Glenda St. Amour

Director of Corporate Services

Fax: (705) 497-9135 | Email: glenda.st-amour@anishinabek.ca

For inquiries regarding this position, please contact:

Vicky Laforge, Lead Facilitator to the Anishinabek Nation Circle Process

Email: vicky.laforge@anishinabek.ca

Miigwech to all applicants for their interest, however, only those who qualify for an interview will be contacted.

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