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Living the Medicine Wheel teachings with Dr. Cynthia Wesley-Esquimaux

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Dr. Cynthia Wesley-Esquimaux spoke about Living the Medicine Wheel Teachings at the Anishinabek Nation’s Health Conference in Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., from January 17-19.

By Jesse Johnson

SAULT STE. MARIE, ONT. – Dr. Cynthia Wesley-Esquimaux encouraged Anishinabek health experts to “throw off the Colonial diet” during her keynote presentation at the Anishinabek Nation’s 8th Annual Health Conference in Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., held from Jan. 17-19. Her presentation focused on living the Medicine Wheel teachings, which fit with this year’s theme: Bagidinimaadizidaa mashkawiziiwin ji mashkawiziimigak niigaan ­­­- Empowering ourselves to strengthen our future.

Dr. Wesley-Esquimaux is a member of the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation. She is a former Vice-Provost (Aboriginal Initiatives) at Lakehead University, Thunder Bay and Orillia, where she is now the Indigenous Chair on Truth and Reconciliation. She is an honourary witness for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, and Chair of the Governing Circle for the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation at the University of Manitoba. Her teaching and academic writing is directed towards understanding historic and inter-generational trauma and unresolved grief within the Indigenous community.

“This Anishinabek Nation Health Conference is about ‘Empowering Ourselves to Strengthen Our Future’ and this is the most significant challenge of our times – we have been throwing off colonial mind shackles for many, many years and more of our children are living very different lives. We are living very different lives, but we are not ‘there’ yet,” she said. “The ‘there’ we are seeking has not been totally defined, but we know it entails reconstitution of our languages, restoration, and instilling of our land-based knowledge in coming generations so they have a choice, [removed through colonization and forced assimilation], and restoring physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health to our nations.”

Dr. Wesley-Esquimaux went on to talk about the impact institutions have had on our people.

“We’ve learned a lot of negative behaviours from a lot of places, whether it was missionaries, European practises we were subjected to, or Residential Schools. Those institutions are still affecting our people and we need to do something about it,” she explained. “There’s been a lot of colonization and forced assimilation, but I think we’ve come through that very well. You can still look around and see lots of brown faces and that is our celebration. That’s what we’ve been able to do; however, we’re still working on restoring the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health of our nations and that’s what is really important.”

She then questioned our commitment to our diet.

“We have the power through consciousness to stop the increasing levels of diabetes, high blood pressure, and other systemic disorders in our nations, so why wouldn’t we?” she asked. “We need to limit the consumption of poverty foods like bannock. Too much is not good. There’s no fibre in it, it is white flour and lard, given to us as part of a starvation diet, so eat it if you have to, but put some raisins and some bran flakes in there… I have a deeper understanding after more than 30 years of research, dialogue, observation, and my own health challenges what we must do as a collective to ensure health and well-being. It has everything to do with adjusting our state of mind, getting in touch with our emotional states, reconnecting our bodies to the land, and remembering who we truly are as spiritual beings as well as ‘human beings’.”

She spoke about the lack of dentists and doctors in Sioux Lookout when she worked there. She said children were losing their teeth because they consumed too much sugar.

“During my doctoral work, I was told the Sioux Lookout Zone Hospital’s biggest caseload was removal of rotten teeth from children, of course this was also because dentists did not regularly attend to remote communities but was also attributed to sugared tea and pop given to very young children, and we are not the only ones. Too many children in Mexico and South America are similarly affected.”

One participant who wished to remain anonymous said, “My mom went to Residential School. Growing up, we didn’t have pop or candies. I should think I was deprived of those sweets, but I don’t.”

Dr. Wesley-Esquimaux continued to speak about diabetes and how our people are developing these conditions earlier in life.

“Diabetes is now the leading cause of blindness, heart, and kidney failure, and limb amputations, to say nothing of the chronic elevated blood sugars and insulin resistance growing within our peoples. We are developing these conditions earlier and earlier, systemic disorders that might happen in our 70s and 80s (for those among us that live that long) are now happening in our 30s and 40s and the rates are rising globally.”

Switching gears, she spoke about our children and the lack of traditional teachings passed down to them.

“In regard to our children, I am calling for a return to the teachings of traditional child-rearing practices – wise practices passed to us from our ancestors, yes, they were pushed aside by circumstances, but they are still there, still us, and absolutely useful. We have heard that it takes a village to raise a child, it is also true that it takes a toxic culture to make us forget how to,” she stated. “I have heard again and again, ‘Every Child Matters’, but I want you to go beyond that statement to a new action: Ask yourself What matters to every child? Do the necessary work to answer this question with the direct help of your youngsters and please, do more of that every day.”

For more information about Anishinabek Nation health, please visit: www.anishinabek.ca.

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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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