March 23-25, 2010
Saskatoon Inn—Saskatoon, SK
Conference Program
Honouring Our Treaty Right To Health
Nation Building Through
Health and Wellness
Program Outline
Vice Chief Bear’s Welcoming Comments
The logo symbolizes the community members joining together to create a plan for
health and wellness. Around
the community members are
the partners in the intergovernmental agreement. The
star blanket is symbolic of the
10-Year First Nation Health and
Well-Being health plan that is
being created. There are pieces missing from the star blanket and the community members hold the pieces. The star
blanket was chosen because it
represents security, which is
the key to health and wellness.
A Lakota Elder explained that
the star blanket represents a
protective robe that encircles
the earth and that the robe is
directly linked to the spirit of
women. It is our First Nations
women that usually create star
blankets. They ensure security,
our health and wellness.
Conference Reminders
Agenda
Tradeshow Booths
Wellness Room
Presenter Biographies
Conference Floor Plan
Health & Social Development Staff
Health & Social Development Commission
Words of Recognition
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Fourth Vice Chief
Heather Bear’s
Welcome to the
2017 FSIN Health Summit
Greetings, on behalf of the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations Health and
Social Development Commission Chiefs and FSIN Staff: Welcome to the 2017 FSIN
Health Summit!
It has been almost 10 years since the signing of the MOU on First Nations Health
and Wellbeing, and during this time we have faced many challenges in the area of
Health and Social Development. The theme of this Health Summit: "Nation Building
Through Health Health & Wellness" expresses our commitment to work with our
communities to address the many issues that exist within a spirit of “Honouring Our
Treaty Right To Health”.
Our Elders, remind us of a time when our people were healthy and all of these negative health problems that plague our communities were non-existent. It is this Standard of Living our leaders had in mind when they fought so hard to include the
“Medicine Chest” in our Treaty with the Crown. As we all know, the Crown is not as
open in the meaning of this interpretation and still does not recognize “Health” as a
right. However, oral history and Canadian common law support our beliefs.
During the next few days, we have arranged a variety of dynamic topics that are designed to provide FSIN and our First Nations leadership with community driven vision, direction and support in terms of how we can work together to make a real difference in the health outcomes of our people. It is our hope that you take the time
to enjoy yourself, find peace and challenge yourself to see beyond the boundaries
that we place upon ourselves in our everyday stresses of life.
Welcome!
Fourth Vice Chief Heather Bear
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Conference Reminders
Pipe Ceremony
Each morning at 7:30 a.m. our Health Summit Elders will hold a
pipe ceremony in Centennial Hall ABC (Lower Level). Everyone is
welcome to attend.
Registration
Registration will commence April 10th at 6:00-10:00 p.m. and
will continue until April 13th at 12:00 p.m. at the Registration
desk located at the Event Registration room (in the Main Lobby
area, across from the Box Office). Please wear your Health Summit name tags at all times.
Meals
Breakfast, refreshments, and luncheons are included with your
registration and are served in Centennial Hall ABC (Lower Level).
Breakfast
Breakfast is served from 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. each morning.
Lunch
Lunch is served from 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. each day.
Round Dance
The Round Dance will take place in Centennial Hall ABC (Lower
Level) on April 11th at 8:30 p.m. A bagged lunch will be provided.
Conference Inquiries If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to approach any of the FSIN Health & Social Development Commission staff (wearing STAFF Name Tags) at any time.
Presentations
A presentation schedule is provided in this booklet along with
the TCU Place floor plan to assist you in finding the rooms.
Accommodations
Hilton Garden Inn Saskatoon Downtown and Holiday Inn Saskatoon Downtown are the Host Hotels for the FSIN Health Summit.
Please contact the hotel directly for any accommodation-related
questions or concerns.
Evaluation Forms
Please complete evaluation forms and hand in to enter your
name for door prize draws. Evaluation forms will be used to
support future FSIN strategic planning.
Session Recordings
Please note that all Health Summit sessions will be recorded.
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“Nation Building Through Health & Wellness”
AGENDA
Monday, April 10, 2017
6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Registration – Event Registration (across from Box Office)
Tuesday, April 11, 2017
7:30 a.m.
Pipe Ceremony – Centennial Hall ABC (Lower Level)
Everyone is welcome to attend
7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Registration – Event Registration (across from Box Office)
7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Breakfast – Centennial Hall ABC (Lower Level)
9:00 a.m. – 9:15 a.m.
Grand Entry – Centennial Hall ABC (Lower Level)
9:15 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.
Opening Prayer – Centennial Hall ABC (Lower Level)
Welcoming Remarks
FSIN Vice Chief Heather Bear
STC Chief Felix Thomas
Deon Hassler - Sask. First Nations Veterans Assoc.
RDG Alex Campbell - FNIHB
Grand Chief Sheila North-Wilson - Manitoba
Councillor Hilary Gough - City of Saskatoon
Alvin Baptiste - Honouring Colten Boushie and family
9:45 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Overview of Health Summit
Dr. Bonita Beatty
10:00 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.
Video: Treaty Right to Health
10:15 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
BREAK
10:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Treaty Right to Health Panel
Sharon Venne / Elder Peter Nippi / Okemow Fox
11:15 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Inherent Rights Practice
Dr. JoLee Sasakamoose / Dr. Willie Ermine
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
LUNCH - Keynote: Grand Chief Doug Kelly (BC)
1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Breakout Session 1 - Centennial Hall A
Nation Building: Indigenous Law
A.J. Felix / Dan Bellegarde
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1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
(continued)
Breakout Session 3 - Centennial Hall B
Critical Issues
HIV / AIDS - Dianne Lafond (Ahtahkakoop)
Mental Wellness - Shirley Bighead / Clifford Ballantyne /
Norma Rabbitskin (Sturgeon Lake)
Saulteaux Pelly Opioid Crisis - Senator Ted Quewezance
2:30 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.
BREAK
2:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Breakout Session 2 - Centennial Hall A
Culturally Responsive Models
All Nation Healing Hospital - Rick Favel
Traditional Healing Incorporating Western Medicine Dr. James Makokis (Saddle Lake)
Breakout Session 4 - Centennial Hall B
Business and Funding of Health
Wes George (Ochapowace First Nation)
Shelly Gladue / Barry Phillips (Bigstone Cree Nation)
Chief Wally Burns (James Smith Cree Nation)
4:00 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.
Closing Remarks
Adjourn for the Day
6:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.
Round Dance & Lunch – Centennial Hall ABC (Lower Level)
Everyone is welcome to attend
Evening luncheon served
Includes Give Away
Wednesday, April 12, 2017
7:30 a.m.
Pipe Ceremony – Centennial Hall ABC (Lower Level)
Everyone is welcome to attend
7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Registration – Event Registration (across from Box Office)
7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Breakfast – Centennial Hall ABC (Lower Level)
9:00 a.m. – 9:15 a.m.
Day 1 Summary – Centennial Hall ABC (Lower Level)
Sherry Jimmy
9:15 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.
Health Governance Presentation
Dr. Bonita Beatty
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10:15 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
BREAK
10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
First Nations Models of Health Governance Panel
Angela Michaud / Bobbi Outten (South Central Foundation)
Bella M Petawabano (James Bay Cree Health)
Mary Carlson / Al Ducharme (NITHA)
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
LUNCH - Keynote: Bill Thole (HealthcareCAN)
1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Breakout Session 1 - Centennial Hall A
Nation Building: Indigenous Law
A.J. Felix / Dan Bellegarde
Breakout Session 3 - Centennial Hall B
Critical Issues
HIV / AIDS - Dianne Lafond (Ahtahkakoop)
Mental Wellness - Shirley Bighead / Clifford Ballantyne /
Norma Rabbitskin (Sturgeon Lake)
Saulteaux Pelly Opioid Crisis - Senator Ted Quewezance
2:30 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.
BREAK
2:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Breakout Session 2 - Centennial Hall A
Culturally Responsive Models
All Nation Healing Hospital - Rick Favel
Traditional Healing Incorporating Western Medicine Dr. James Makokis (Saddle Lake)
Breakout Session 4 - Centennial Hall B
Business and Funding of Health
Wes George (Ochapowace First Nation)
Shelly Gladue / Barry Phillips (Bigstone Cree Nation)
Chief Wally Burns (James Smith Cree Nation)
4:00 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.
Closing Remarks
Adjourn for the Day
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Thursday, April 13, 2017
7:30 a.m.
Pipe Ceremony – Centennial Hall ABC (Lower Level)
Everyone is welcome to attend
7:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Registration – Event Registration (across from Box Office)
7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Breakfast – Centennial Hall ABC (Lower Level)
9:00 a.m. – 9:15 a.m.
Day 2 Summary – Centennial Hall ABC (Lower Level)
Dr. Bonita Beatty / Sherry Jimmy
9:15 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Leadership Forum
Opening Comments - Senator Sol Sanderson
Recap and dialogue on direction/mandates
Panel for Health Authority
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
LUNCH - Keynote: Dr. Ryan Meili
1:00 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.
Closing Remarks
Door Prizes
Adjourn for the Day
Honouring Our Treaty Right To Health
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Tradeshow Booths
The Tradeshow is located in the Centennial Lobby (downstairs).
Please stop by and visit the following exhibitors:

Saskatchewan Polytechnic

University of Saskatchewan – College of Nursing

INAC

SGI

Saskatchewan Emergency Protective Services

Heart & Stroke Foundation

FNARF

Diabetes Canada

All Nations Hope Network

Saskatoon Health Region

Other Regional Health Authorities

Eagle Spirit

Cree Crafts

Tribal Traders

Dreamcatcher Promotions

Silversmith Crafts
And others...
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Wellness Room
First come, first served (main floor). Must register at the Registration
Booth.
Foot and Hand Care
Estheticians: Lisa Arcand, Alice Wuttunee, Asha Bishop, Caroline Ledoux
15 minute services to each client and will offer mini manicures which
entails cleaning of nails and cuticles and a light hand massage, may offer a mini foot massage by request of the client. Limits of 3-4 clients per
hour.
April 11, 2017 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
April 12, 2017 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
April 13, 2017 9:00 am to 12:00 pm
Body Care/Stress Management
Massage Therapists: Mandy Tremblay, Marilyn Andrews
15 minute services to each client and will offer mini massage. Limits of
3-4 clients per hour.
April 11, 2017 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
April 12, 2017 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
April 13, 2017 9:00 am to 12:00 pm
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Presenter Biographies
Tribal
Chief Felix Thomas hails from the Kinistin
Saulteaux Nation where he served for eleven years as Chief and
Councillor. Since his election as Tribal Chief of the Saskatoon Tribal Council in 2008, his work has been dedicated to improving the
quality of life of First Nations through the formation of progressive
partnerships with all levels of government, public service and private industry. He currently serves as Chair of the First Nations Power Authority (FNPA); Co-chair of the Wanuskewin Capital Campaign,
member of the FSIN Executive Council; and is part of the Saskatoon
Leadership Committee to End Homelessness. Felix has served various national and regional capacities including: Assembly of First
Nations National Self-Government Committee; the AFN Chiefs Committee on Health; Chair of Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA); Federation of
Saskatchewan Indian Nations Indian Government Commission; member of the FSIN Health
& Social Development Commission; Dakota Dunes Community Development Corporation
(DDCDC); and Chair of Saskatchewan Indian Cultural Centre (SICC).
He obtained a bachelor’s degree of Science in Phys. Ed and a bachelor’s degree of Arts
with a major in Native Studies from the University of Saskatchewan as well as a Professional Director Designation.
Deon Hassler, Assiniboine from Carry the Kettle FN. Parents,
Leroy and Myrtle are Assiniboine from CTK. I am a US Navy Veteran,
my father and brother Dale are US Marine Veterans. I served on the
USS Peleliu LHA-5 and USS Takelma ATF-113 out of Long Beach, California. I served four years active duty and two year reserve. My trade
was a Machinist’s Mate Third Class Petty Officer. My first year in on
the USS Takelma, an ocean going tugboat, I was injured during a
rescue mission. We were salvaging another ship at rough seas and I
was at the wrong end of a grappling hook when it caught me from
behind my legs. I dragged me for a few feet then someone cut the
line before it took me over the side with the anchor it was tided to.
Before that I was athletic, participated in American Indian Movement marathons runs, surfing ocean waves, baseball, football and wrestling. Growing up in near El Toro Marine
Corps Air Station Base in California, I remember playing with my father medals and stuff
not knowing I would be a Veteran. Today I work at the File Hills Qu’Appelle Tribal Council
as a Circuit Rider Trainer in the Water and Wastewater treatment plants. I had gained my
education and experience in water and wastewater through the Navy as a Machinist’s Mate
responsible for auxiliary equipment like the sewage plant and water systems. I was given
the opportunity be operate the CTK water plant and then move onto the Tribal Council
and assist others. My experience with the Qu’Appelle Valley Water Shed gave feedback on
the environmental issues we face today. Working at the TC gives me the opportunity to
learn our cultural differences from each community elder. This has given me the visibility
to reach out and be seen by the Veteran’s families to work on our grave marker program.
I feel lucky to get to hear stories from our elders and veterans in all those communities. I
hope to get these stories into our Veterans books we are working on. I have been living
on the Carry the Kettle since I have been out of the military and happily married to my
wife Angela (Spencer) Hassler for 27 years. We have three boys, eldest in his last year to
become a teacher like his mom (18 years) with two degrees. The second one works odd
jobs and take care of his grandparents. The youngest is taking nursing administration.
Proud of my boys, who assist me to help others.
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Presenter Biographies
Alexander Campbell, Regional Executive, First Nations and
Inuit Health Branch (FNIHB), Saskatchewan Region. Alex has been
with the Health Canada, First Nations and Inuit Health Branch since
March 24, 2011 as Regional Director General and Regional Executive for the Saskatchewan FNIHB Region. He began his public service career in 1979 with the Government of Manitoba, Ministry of
Northern Affairs in Thompson, Manitoba and quickly being promoted to the position of Regional Director for The Pas and Dauphin
Regions in his mid-twenties. After various jobs and assignments
with the provincial and territorial governments, including 13 years
in the positions of Deputy Minister for the Governments of Nunavut
(10 years) and Saskatchewan (3 years), he joined Health Canada as
Regional Director General for Saskatchewan on March 24, 2011. Alex’s career with the
public service has given him the opportunity to live and work in communities and cities
such as The Pas (MB), Rankin Inlet (NU), Rae Edzo (NT), Ottawa (ON), La Ronge (SK), Iqaluit
(NU) and now, Regina. He’s comfortable with change and credits his professional journey
to his open, practical, and approachable leadership style. Alex is focusing his sights on
continuing the good work of building a HC–FNIHB team in Saskatchewan. He is truly impressed by the work we do in here in Health Canada and wants Health Canada staff to
know that he looks forward to working together in defining the new region. A strong
sense of community is in his blood. He is committed to working with First Nations and
other aboriginal peoples to ensure that governments appreciate and understand the goals
and aspirations of aboriginal peoples and to ensure the best quality of programs and services are afforded to the people. He was born and raised in the small northern aboriginal
community of Moose Lake, Manitoba. Alex and his wife, Muriel, have five children and two
grandsons whom they totally enjoy and certainly keep them busy.
Sheila North Wilson, known as a “bridge builder”, is a member of Bunibonibee Cree Nation and was elected as Grand Chief of
Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) in September 2015. Previous to this, she enjoyed a career as the Chief Communication Officer at Assembly for Manitoba Chiefs, a CBC journalist and CTV
correspondent, an economic development officer, a radio personality and a Cree translator. Ms. North Wilson holds two diplomas in
Business Accounting and Rural Development with a focus on community development, a certificate in radio and television broadcasting and a diploma in Creative Communications. Ms. North Wilson is
passionate about the issue of missing and murdered Indigenous
women (MMIW). With this in mind, she created the hashtag, #MMIW
which is now commonly used on social media. Ms. North Wilson
continues to work closely with families, friends, as well as Indigenous and non- Indigenous leaders to advance the political will to address racism and the issues around violence
against Indigenous people. Most recently, she co-produced with Leonard Yakir, a TV documentary “1200+, part-1. The documentary highlights some of the systemic issues that
place Indigenous women at greater risk for violence and sexual exploitation. Finally, Ms.
North Wilson is a gifted writer, a Radio Television Digital News Association award winner
and Gemini Award nominee. Most recently, Ms. North Wilson was featured in Chatelaine
Magazine as one of the 'Top 30 Women of 2015' and by media personality Ace Burpee
from Virgin Radio as one of the 'Most Fascinating 100 Manitobans to Watch.'
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Presenter Biographies
Councillor Hilary Gough
is the City Councillor for Ward 2 in
Saskatoon. Raised in Saskatoon, she studied at the University of Saskatchewan and later the University of Manitoba where she achieved
her M.A.. Elected in October 2016, Hilary is honoured to represent the
8 diverse neighbourhoods that make up Ward 2. She is passionate
about health and equity and strives daily to better understand how we
can all work together to support healthy community development.
Sharon H. Venne (photo unavailable),
(Notokwew Muskwa Manitokan) is an
Indigenous Treaty person (Cree) and by marriage a citizen of the Kaini Nation within Treaty 7 with one son. She has worked at the United Nations prior to the establishment of the
Working Group on Indigenous Peoples in 1982. The background research to the many
clauses on the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples is included in her book:
Our Elders Understand Our Rights: Evolving international law regarding Indigenous Peoples. In addition, Sharon has written numerous articles and edited materials related to the
rights of Indigenous Peoples. She has lectured on the rights of Indigenous Peoples in Australia, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden, France, Italy, Hawaii, United States and Canada. In
addition to her work on the Declaration, she worked to secure a UN Study on Treaties.
From the first introduction of the resolution in 1983 until the report was finalized in
1999, Sharon worked to ensure that the report reflected Indigenous laws and norms. Sharon has written numerous articles on the Treaty Rights of Indigenous Peoples. All her
work internationally and domestically relates to the promotion of the rights of Indigenous
Peoples especially rights related to lands, resources and treaties. Some of her works on
laws of the Cree Peoples related to treaty making were published in Aboriginal and Treaty
Rights in Canada (Michael Asch ed.) and Natives and Settlers – Now & Then (Paul DePas-
Elder Peter Nippi
Maskote-pizikioh-kizikohwinin (Buffalo Sky
Man) Nibinigwaneb (Summer Eagle Feather) aka (Peter Nippi) is
from Kinistin Nakawe Nation called “Kip pah pee kang”. He has
been involved as a “Oskabehos” since 1977, a ceremonial holder
since 1987 to the present. His parents never went to residential
school or church. They never spoke English but were both fluent in
the Anishnabe (Nakawe) language and were very actively involved
in the ceremonies, customs, and traditions of the Anishnabe
(Nakawe) people. Peter has been on his healing journey for the past
thirty years and has remained abstinent from unhealthy substances. Peter has his Chemical Dependency certificate. He has worked
as a National Native Alcohol Drug Program Community Worker
(NNADAP) in Kinistin. He has worked in the Fort Qu’Appelle New
Dawn Treatment Center and has worked as the Director of the Aboriginal Healing Foundation Men Counselling Project at the Key First Nation. Peter has
served his community of Kinistin as a Chief, and a Councillor for many years. He presently
works for the Correctional Services of Canada (CSC) as an Elder Advisor to the Aboriginal
Initiatives program at the Prince Albert Penitentiary which entails Elder assessments, counselling, reviews, progress reporting and case conferencing. He designs and engages the
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Presenter Biographies
Elder Peter Nippi (cont.)
Aboriginal cultural programming and healing plans in a
holistic manner in and out of the penitentiary. Peter is fluent in the Anishnabe (Nakawe)
language is able to speak Cree and is very involved in the Anishnable (Nakawe) and
Nehiyow ceremonies in Saskatchewan. Peter remains actively involved in his community in
the areas of wellness, language and as a knowledge keeper. He continues to participate
and conduct seasonal ceremonies for the Anishnabe (Nakawe) people. Peter has four
daughters and over a dozen grandchildren and many traditionally adopted children and
siblings, this is one of his most prized accomplishments, in accordance with cultural
teachings of the Anishnabe (Nakawe) people. Wellness coupled with holistic healing and a
sure grounding of self-identity enables you to be proud of who you are and to give hope
to persevere and maintain the use of our language. It is essential that we must do whatever we need to do to encourage our young people to start using our language in our day to
day activities, most of all speaking it. Peter believes we need language immersion classes
in our educational systems. Peter has always encouraged the use of our language in writ-
Okemow Fox, Chief of the Onion Lake Cree Nation June 2008
to present. Interests are Indigenous economic development, aboriginal community economic development, aboriginal leadership
development. Okemow has been in politics since his early 20’s.
Dr. JoLee Sasakamoose,
is an Anishinabe (Ojibwe) from
M’Chigeeng First Nation in Ontario and is an active citizen of
Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation. She is an Assistant Professor in Educational Psychology and Counselling in the Faculty of Education
at the University of Regina. She is a Research Affiliate with the
Indigenous Peoples Health Research Centre, and a methodologist with the Saskatchewan Centre for Patient Oriented Research
(SCPOR). Dr. Sasakamoose serves as the founding Director of the
Health Advocacy and Research Training (HART) program. HART
is a comprehensive program providing solution-focused interventions targeting multiple forms of historical and intergenerational trauma while providing opportunities to support youth ages 14 to 30 in becoming health and research advocates in their schools and communities. HART works in
partnership with the Fred Sasakamoose Indigenous Youth Leadership and Wellness
Program, a youth sport, recreation and health camp at the University of Regina. Dr.
Sasakamoose is an Indigenous methodologist utilizing community and participatorybased research approaches with FN communities and peoples. From a strengthsbased, trauma informed decolonizing lens, her research engages Indigenous peoples
in defining health and healthy communities; explores the intergenerational effects of
historical trauma and traditional healing methods as protective factors with Indigenous peoples; utilizes neurodecolonization, contemplative mind body practices and
Sîtoskâkewin© expressive therapies in the promotion of health and wellbeing…
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Presenter Biographies
Dr. JoLee Sasakamoose (cont.)
Dr. Sasakamoose has received funding from
the Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation (SHRF), the Community Initiatives Fund
(CIF), the Saskatchewan Instructional Development and Research Unit (SIDRU), the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) the
Canadian Heritage Foundation, the Saskatchewan Center for Patient Oriented Research
(SCPOR) and Ehrlo Foundation. Dr. Sasakamoose teaches Group Counselling, Counselling
Girls and Women, Counselling Children and Youth, Indigenous Family Therapies, Landbased therapies, Peyahtak-wihtamowin (carefully telling, gently telling) Neurodecolonization and mindfulness, Foundations of Indigenous Health and Wellbeing and Indigenous
Qualitative Research. She is a co-founder with of a bi-annual Indigenous Methodologies
Institute that offers an intensive Indigenous Quantitative and Qualitative approaches to
community-engaged research in the Masters and PhD students across disciplines.
Dr. Willie Ermine
is from the Sturgeon Lake First Nation
where he lives with his family. He has worked extensively with Elders in both his community and university work. In line with this
work, he has held the position of Ethicist / Researcher with the Indigenous Peoples Health Research Centre and is currently a faculty
member with the First Nations University of Canada, Willie lectures
in the areas of Humanities, Indigenous Studies and various education courses. He has published numerous academic articles including widely read academic papers, and has presented at various venues nationally and internationally and various national knowledge
symposiums on the topics of education, research and in particular
Daniel J. Bellegarde
is a citizen of Little Black Bear’s Band of
the Assiniboine-Cree in Treaty 4 Territory, southern Saskatchewan.
He attended the University of Regina in the Faculty of Administration and has received numerous specialty training at various universities and professional development institutions. He has held senior
positions with the Meadow Lake Tribal Council and the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies. He served 9 years as ViceChief of the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations, where one
of his portfolios was Justice and Policing. He has served on a number of community Boards and Committees, as well as the national
Board of CESO. He had been a Commissioner of the Indian Specific
Claims Commission between 1992 and 2008, serving as Co-Chair
of the Commission from 1994 to 2000. He continues to focus on inherent and Treaty
rights, community development and justice issues. He is currently the Executive Director
of the FSIN Treaty Governance Office, Chair of the File Hills First Nation Police Service
Board of Police Commissioners and member of the Board of Directors of the Canadian Association on Police Governance.
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Presenter Biographies
Dianne Lafond
Born and raised on the Muskeg Lake Cree Nation. I am the middle child of 11 Children and I was blessed with 4
Children of my own. My career has been spent working as an advocate and educator in the Health and Benefits area. I have worked
with all levels of Government but always have found my way back
to First Nations territory. I am currently the Director of Health in
Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation, beautiful First Nations country. We have
been sharing our success with our HIV and Hepatitis C Program
throughout Canada and more of a Saskatchewan focus. I look forward to presenting at the FSIN Health Summit.
Shirley Bighead
of Sturgeon Lake First Nation attended the University of Regina and is currently the Health Director for Sturgeon
Lake First Nation, a position she has held for the last twenty
years. Shirley served two terms as a band councillor for the Sturgeon
Lake First Nation and held the health portfolio. Shirley has been involved in many Health Committees, Working Groups and Boards at regional and national levels. She is the daughter of late David Ahenakew and continues to carry on her father’s advocacy for the Treaties. Shirley is a very strong advocate for the Treaty Right to Health
and Child and Family Services. She had extensive involvement in negotiating a new Child and Family Services Agreement entitled the
Norma Rabbitskin
is a fluent Cree speaker from Big River
First Nation. She is currently employed by Sturgeon Lake First Nation as a Registered nurse. Her passion is assisting and being at
service in developing community based programs that are strongly
grounded in the healing value of re-engaging in traditional healing
practices, parenting skills, acquiring traditional life-skills teachings
from Elders / Knowledge keepers while maintaining the vitality of
language in knowledge building and achieving Wellness in one's
life.
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Presenter Biographies
Senator Ted Quewezance
is a member of the Keeseekoose
First Nation. He is a devoted husband of thirty-nine years, a father to
six children, a grandfather to fourteen grandchildren and a great
grandfather to three grandchildren. Senator Quewezance is very committed to his culture and traditions. Senator Quewezance began his
involvement with First Nations Government when he was elected to
Council for the Keeseekoose First Nations, in 1977; where he served
eight years. During this time, he was also involved in wheat and cattle
farming with the Saskatchewan Indian Agricultural Program. Following
his term as Councillor, he became employed with the Saskatchewan
Indian Federated College as the Communications Officer and was later the Chief of Staff
for the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations for eight years. In 1995, Senator Quewezance was elected Chief of his community and served three consecutive terms. Ted was
instrumental and played a major role in the Pipeline negotiations between IPSCO and Alliance Pipeline, which created hundreds of jobs for the First Nations people. He served as
an Advisor to the Assembly of First Nations for the Residential School file. He has worked
very hard on the Residential School Agreement and has worked nationally with the truth
and reconciliation committee for the planning of the National event which occurred in Saskatoon in June of 2012. Senator Quewezance has a history of extensive involvement with
First Nations people and issues. His career spans over many years in positions of leadership, business and consulting. He has served as a political voice for his people at the national, federal, provincial and community levels of Government. The Senator is politically
active and an advocate in the areas of Education, Health, Justice, Economic Development,
Cultural Development, Healing and Wellness, Social Welfare, Women’s Issues and Employment. He believes that we must apply all efforts to educate our people about the Treaties
and make them aware of their respective rights and take the proper measures to protect
them. Senator Quewezance is committed to the issues that our First Nations people face;
especially in regards to the health and well-being of First Nations people for our future
generations.
Dr. James Makokis
is a nehiyô Family Doctor from onihcikiskwapiwinihk (Saddle Lake Cree Nation) where he was born and
raised. Currently he splits his clinical time between Kehewin and
Enoch Health Services, both in Treaty 6. Dr. Makokis works to integrate nehiyaw maskihkiya (Cree medicines) into his medical practice by involving Elders and traditional medicine practitioners, and
is working to create a system where both options are readily available for people in these clinics. He believes that one of the most important ways to addressing health disparities and improving health
outcomes among Indigenous Peoples' is to integrate and include
nehiyaw maskihkiya ekwa nehiyaw mamitoneyicikan (Cree thought)
into health care. Dr. Makokis is currently the Chair of the Indigenous Wisdom Council of
Alberta Health Services, and serves on the Waakebiness-Bryce Institute of Indigenous
Health Board at the University of Toronto. He has worked to develop and co-teach university courses on Indigenous Health and Traditional Medicines at Yellowhead Tribal College
with Elders. As a two-spirit person, Dr. Makokis also has an avid interest in transgender
health. He is engaged to his partner Anthony, and they are currently training for the Vancouver Marathon in May, 2017.
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Presenter Biographies
Rick Favel
is the Traditional Knowledge Keeper at the White Raven Healing Centre. He has been involved in First Nations Spiritual
Institutes (sic Ceremonies) for most of his life. He is a fluent Nehiyaw
speaker, understands Anishyabe as well. He has been a Oscapewo for
42 years of his life. He has been trained by Knowledge Keepers that
were borne in the 1800’s. He continues to seek their guidance, direction and daily consultation through ceremony, prayer and way of life.
Wesley George (photo unavailable),
is from the Ochapowace Nation of Treaty 4, and a direct descendant of Chief Kakisiwew the principal Chief who first touched the
pen to Treaty No. 4 on September 14, 1874. The United Nations Declaration on the Rights
of Indigenous Peoples and other international standards are the focus of my work. I have
been involved at the United Nations since 1990 and have participated in the many levels
that evolved the UNDRIP. I was instrumental in convincing our Citizenship of Ochapowace
Nation to give the UNDRIP a home and it is now one of the centrepieces for our
Ochapowace Nation Constitution. It is now adopted, integrated and implemented into our
Laws and Policies at home. I bring over 26 years of experience and knowledge of the United Nations system, processes and developments concerning Human Rights and Indigenous Peoples Rights. I provide training on the implementation of the UNDRIP, and I have
wrote key papers on the implementation and impacts of the UNDRIP and other international standards for the FSIN, AFN, Ochapowace Nation, SET4TC , the Province of Saskatchewan Ministry of Social Services and the United Nations Expert Mechanism on the
Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues.
Chief Wally Burns (Photo and Biography unavailable at time of
printing)
Al Ducharme (Photo and Biography unavailable at time of printing)
Sherry Jimmy (Photo and Biography unavailable at time of printing)
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Presenter Biographies
Mary Carlson
is the Executive Director of the Northern InterTribal Health Authority Inc. in Prince Albert Saskatchewan. She received her BScN from the University of Saskatchewan, College of
Nursing and began her career in various front line nursing positions. She moved into Nursing Management to working as a Nursing Unit Coordinator for the Regional Health Authority. Mary being
a member of the Lac La Ronge Indian Band, moved to work in LLRIB
Health Services where she had the pleasure of being the Health Director for 11 years. During her 11 years with LLRIBHS she managed
to increase funding and staff complement from 40 to 125, spearheaded many initiatives such as the first licensed on-reserve Long
Term Care Home in Saskatchewan, which opened its’ doors in 2012 and a licensed Group
Home. Passionate about advancing First Nation’s Health Care Delivery, she moved from
2nd level to 3rd level at NITHA in 2013 as the Executive Director. Mary is a member of
the First Nations Health Managers Association as well as the Saskatchewan Registered
Nurses Association. Through her years of experience, she is knowledgeable in the areas
of First Nation’s culture, approaches to governance and best practices in the delivery of
health services.
Angela Michaud
is an Alaskan Native Tlingit and 4th generation chiropractor. Angela joined Southcentral Foundation, an Alaska Native customer-owned health care system, in 2008 as a practicing chiropractor. The past 4 years she has been the Clinic Director
for the Complementary Medicine Clinic. This past year she also
took on the role of Clinic Director for Traditional Healing and was
just recently promoted to Senior Director for Executive and Tribal
Services for SCF. Prior to joining SCF, she had a private chiropractic
clinic in Davenport, Iowa and did locum tenens work in Alaska. She
earned her Bachelors of Science degree with an emphasis on Exercise Sports Science from Oregon State University, in Corvallis, Oregon. She earned her Certified Sports and Conditioning Specialist
(CSCS) certification soon after graduation. She earned her doctor of chiropractic degree
from Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa. Dr. Michaud has managed a full
time active practice in SCF’s CMC for 8 years. SCF’s CMC program is among the largest in
the country and Angela continues to play an essential role in its further development. She
currently is helping develop a traditional healing tribal doctor training program. She is an
active member of the state, national and international chiropractic associations. Angela
has presented nationally and internationally on SCF’s NUKA system of care, chiropractic
care, the integration of complementary medicine and treating acute injuries. She has
gone almost a dozen times to Washington, DC to lobby for chiropractic rights for active
duty members as well as veterans, chiropractors to be commission core officers, and student loan repayment. She has spoken on behalf of her tribe at the White House Tribal Nations Conference for federal funding for Indian Health Services (IHS) facilities and student
loan repayment for those working at IHS facilities. Angela resides in Anchorage, Alaska,
with her husband Mike and their three children. She focuses on teaching her children
about their Tlingit Native culture, subsistence hunting and fishing, health and wellness.
She is also an owner and property manager of multiple real estate properties and helps
with the management of her husband’s chiropractic clinic.
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Presenter Biographies
Bobbi Outten,
Director at Southcentral Foundation’s Family Wellness Warriors Initiative, is Anishinaabe from White Earth Reservation and
grew up in Haines, Alaska. Raised in rural Alaska, Bobbi has a great
passion for contributing to the physical, mental, and spiritual wellness
of the Alaska Native people. As a healthcare professional and trainer/
facilitator with more than 20-plus years of professional experience, dual
master's in the helping profession and as the Director of the Family
Wellness Warriors Initiative, Bobbi offers a unique combination of clinical, leadership, instructional/public-speaking experience and Alaska Native healthcare expertise. As a statewide education and training program designed by the Alaska Native people to address domestic violence, child sexual abuse and child neglect, Bobbi was key in developing this prevention program, employing a unique approach using a culturally centered resiliency model
to provide intensive education and trainings to reduce the cycle of abuse in the Native
community. In her tenure with Southcentral Foundation , one of the state's largest health
care provider s to the Alaska Native/ and American Indian people, Bobbi is a subject matter expert (SME) in the guiding principles and Core Concepts of the award-winning SCF
Nuka System of Care. Bobbi’s background along with experience in researching and producing customer- owner driven health care initiatives, contributed to the design of teaching modules and exercises including key curriculum- development for FWWI. Over the
course of her tenure as the Director of FWWI, Bobbi developed leadership, operations,
evaluation measures and program components within the management and staff ranks of
the SCF health system and has consistently delivered exceptional outcomes.
Bella M. Petawabano (Photo and Biography unavailable at time
of printing)
Bill Tholl M.A., ICD.
Bill Tholl currently serves as the
Founding President and CEO of HealthCareCAN: the voice of
Canada’s health care organizations and hospitals. Prior to his
appointment in March 2014, Bill served as Founding Executive
Director of the Canadian Health Leadership Network (20092014); CEO and Secretary General, Canadian Medical Association
(2001-2008), and CEO of the Heart and Stroke Foundation of
Canada (1995-2001).
The Globe and Mail has described Bill as “Medicare’s Mr. Fix-it”.
He is a sought-after speaker, being billed recently by CHLNet as
a “leader of leaders” on the Canadian health scene. He holds a
graduate degree in health economics (from University of Manitoba) and has written on many topics, most recently as the lead author of “Twenty Tips for
Surviving and Prospering in the Association World” and co-author of “Bringing Leadership
to Life in Health” (Springer, January 2014). He is the recipient of numerous national
awards and is a Certified Corporate Director (ICD.D). Born and raised in Saskatchewan, Bill
and his wife, Paula, live in Ottawa and have three children and four grandchildren.
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Presenter Biographies
Barry Phillips (photo unavailable)
worked for the Bigstone Health Commission as CEO and Consultant more than twenty years. Mr. Phillips has an extensive career
in both business and in health, and specializes in developing ideas, and exploring new
and innovative approaches to find solutions to difficult problems. Mr. Phillips skills have
benefitted the Bigstone Health Commission by making it a national and provincial First
Nations health care leader by owning several health-related businesses, and is the only
First Nation in Canada to have the Non-Insured Health Benefits program included as part
of its’ 10-year Community Health Transfer Agreement. Mr. Phillips has also served on
many health and business Boards and is a frequent guest speaker on “The Bigstone NIHB
Experience” and how First Nations can benefit from the “Business of Health.” He has represented both Bigstone and Treaty 8 on both National and Regional committees and
served on the Alberta Health’s Greater Edmonton Advisory Board as a member. Previous
health-related positions include Chief Executive Officer of four Alberta hospitals over a 14year period; Department of Health for the Government of the Northwest Territories; and,
Vice-President of Development for Villa Centers, a national nursing home company that
owned and operated facilities in 4 provinces. Previous business related experience includes General Manager and Chairman of the Board for Apeetogosan Metis Development
Corporation, Pinnacle Business Services, General Manger Business Assistance to Native
Albertans Corporation, Partner in Medical Management Services Ltd, and AFXL (Accurate
Financial Exchange Ltd.). Mr. Phillips received his education at the University of Alberta,
University of Wisconsin, and Harvard University. He describes his management style as
being involved as a Team player and adhering to the Kaizen Principle.
Grand Chief Doug Kelly
An elected Tribal Chief since 2004
and President of the Stó:lō Tribal Council, Grand Chief Doug Kelly is
the Chair of the First Nations Health Council (FNHC). The FNHC is
responsible for overseeing the new First Nations health governance
structure and the implementation of the Tripartite First Nations
Health Plan. Grand Chief Doug Kelly has served as Soowahlie Chief
for eight years, as Tribal Chief & officer for the Stó:lō Tribal Council
for twelve years. He has served as Chair of the First Nations Health
Council since June 2010. Doug served on the First Nations Summit
Political Executive for four years. He served as the founding Chair of
the BC First Nations Fisheries Council for two years. Doug was a
founding member of the BC Treaty Commission for one year. Mr.
Kelly has 13 years of experience in senior management positions, including senior leadership roles with the First Nations Chiefs’ Health Committee, Stó:lō Nation, and Stó:lō Tribal
Council. Doug also led the development of Health, Child Welfare, and other programs including fisheries and economic development.
Shelly Gladue, RN BScN graduating class of 2002, with University of Alberta. A member of Bigstone Cree Nation in Wabasca, AB. Upon completion of studies began with Sturgeon General Hospital, in St.
Albert, AB with Alberta Health Services. Within the following year,
Bigstone Health Commission provided the opportunity to work in
home community, which was accepted and provided nursing in the
capacity as a Community Health Nurse for approximately 6 years. To
further own learning, an opening with Nunee Health Board, in Fort
Chipewyan, AB became available as Nursing Manager which was...
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Presenter Biographies
Shelly Gladue (cont.)
was over a year. Due to children needs and request to relocate to secure different employment. Immediately soon after an opportunity arose to
work with Treaty 8 First Nations of Alberta as the Health Careers Coordinator for over a
year, which then proceeded to another opportunity in a position as Administrator with the
Indigenous Health Initiatives, Division of Community Engagement in the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, for a couple of years. Once again, Bigstone Health Commission,
sought out assistance to the organization and returned back to Wabasca as Assistant Director of Community and Health Director in August of 2013. This opportunity provided
advancement to the current position held since July, 2016.
Senator Sol Sanderson
is an expert in Indigenous governance, inherent Aboriginal rights, treaty rights, and the constitutional framework governing Canada’s relationship with Aboriginal
peoples. After years of involvement in Aboriginal politics in Canada, he has an encyclopedic knowledge of federal policy, treaties,
and governance structure.
He is a member of the Chakastaypasin Cree First Nation in Saskatchewan. Senator Sanderson served five and a half years on the
Prince Albert City Police Force and moved to the area of politics.
He has served as Executive Director and First Vice-President of the
Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations (FSIN) before being
elected as FSIN Chief from 1979 to 1986. The Senator has fought
hard to have the entrenchment of Treaties in the 1982 Constitution. He also helped create
the terms of reference for the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples, which was established in 1991 to investigate the relationship among Aboriginal peoples, the government
of Canada, the federal department of Indian Affairs, and the culture of Canada as a whole.
He was one of the founders of the FSIN education institutions, Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies, Saskatchewan Indian Federated College (now known as the First Nations University of Canada) and the Saskatchewan Indian Cultural College (now known as
the Saskatchewan Indian Cultural Centre). He continues to be in demand to present, ad-
Dr. Ryan Meili (Photo and Biography unavailable at time of
printing)
Dr. Bonita Beatty is a member of the Peter Ballantyne Cree
Nation. She has a doctorate in Political Science from the University
of Alberta, specializing in First Nations Health Governance, the Administration of Public Services and Public Policy. She is faculty with
the department of Indigenous Studies and Executive Member of
the International Centre for Northern Governance and Development at the University of Saskatchewan. She was a former Executive Director of Health and Social Development for the Federation
of Saskatchewan Indians and former Executive Director of Peter
Ballantyne Cree Nation Health Services. She was also a senior policy analyst with the provincial government, Saskatchewan Indian
and Metis Affairs Secretariat. She continues to work with initiatives
involving applied governance, training, engagement of communities, and helping develop community-led programs and services.
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Nation Building Through Health & Wellness
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Event Registration
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Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations
Health & Social Development
Health and Social Development Commission (HSDC)
Tribal/Grand/Agency
Council/First Nation
Member(s)
Senate Member
Senator Margaret Keewatin
Senate Member
Senator Amanda Louison
Women's Commission Member
Chief Joanne Roy
Alternate
Chief Tammy Cook-Searson
Agency Chiefs Tribal Council
Vacant
Chief Anne Thomas
Battleford Tribal Council
Chief Daniel Starchief
Chief Wayne Semagnais
Battleford Agency Tribal Council
Chief Clint Wuttunee
Chief Lorie Whitecalf
File Hills Qu’Appelle Tribal Council
Chief Marie Anne Day Walker-Pelletier
Tribal Rep. Elaine Chicoose
Meadow Lake Tribal Council
Tribal Chief Eric Sylvester
Chief Francis Iron
Prince Albert Grand Council
Chief Corinne Sayazie
Chief Tammy Cook-Searson
Chief Edward Henderson
Grand Chief Ron Michel
Chief Alvin Francis
Chief Greg Ermine
Chief Gilbert Ledoux
Saskatoon Tribal Council
Chief Trisha Sutherland
Vice Chief Mark Arcand
South East Treaty 4 Tribal Council
Councillor Sandra Lonechild
Touchwood Agency Tribal Chiefs
Chief Reginald Bellerose
Councillor Seraine Sunkawaste
Chief Lloyd Buffalo
Chief Darren Poorman
Yorkton Tribal Council
Chief George Cote
Independent First Nations
Chief Cadmus Delorme
Chief Lyndon Musqua
Chief Alex Littlebear Jr.
Vacant
Senior Technical Advisory Group to HSDC
Tribal/Grand/Agency
Council/First Nation
Member(s)
Agency Chiefs Tribal Council
Cindy McAdam
Battle River Treaty 6 Health Centre
Patricia Whitecalf Ironstand
Battleford Agency Tribal Council
Dianne Lafond
File Hills Qu’Appelle Tribal Council
Gail Boehme
Alternate
Lorraine Walker
Meadow Lake Tribal Council
Flora Fiddler
Alt(s): Josette Coullioneur
Prince Albert Grand Council
Al Ducharme
Alt(s): Arnette Weber-Beeds
Rick Kuzyk
Shirley Bighead
Saskatoon Tribal Council
Ceal Tournier
Alt(s): Iva Lafond
South East Treaty 4 Tribal Council
Jason James Lamb
Touchwood Agency Tribal Chiefs
Valerie Desjarlais
Yorkton Tribal Council
Dawn Sinclair
Independent First Nations
Angie Tanner
Alt(s): Albert Jimmy
Laurie Jimmy
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Nation Building Through Health & Wellness
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2017 FSIN Health SUMMIT
“Nation Building Through Health and Wellness”
Office of Fourth Vice Chief Heather Bear
Health & Social Development Commission
Thank You!
Leadership
Elders
Delegates
Guest Speakers
Staff
Organizers
Commission Members
Trade Show Participants
Volunteers
Indian Teacher Education
Program (ITEP) for door
prizes
Health and Social Development Secretariat: Mission Statement
Through the full implementation of treaties, First Nations powers, laws, and jurisdictions,
we will develop a sound and responsive traditional, social, economic, and environmental infrastructure for the health benefit of our children and families and to deliver
good quality services to all First Nations citizens, both on and off-reserve.
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On Behalf of Vice Chief Heather Bear and the
Health and Social Development Commission
Thank you for Attending the
2017 FSIN Health Summit
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