in working with them -
they recognize what is valuable
and then do something
about it."
Consultation & Partnership: For the first time in our history, Aboriginal people, a people with intimate ties to the land and all Creation, have garnered the attention of the courts and governments. We have the unique challenge and opportunity to impart our ways, thoughts and values into policy development. This recognizes our position as caretakers of the earth and enables us to work in true collaboration with industry and government. We depend on the land, and we want to make sure that future generations of all Albertans can enjoy its beauty and bounty.
We believe that successful consultation integrates traditional knowledge and western science. We want to work in a "partnership of equals" with all users of the land to produce the best possible development and mitigation plans. Our consultation program consistently produces timely results that are mutually beneficial. The Program honours community values and the desire for preservation of ecosystem integrity. It also respects other land users' interests.
- Consultation Program Presentation28 mb
- Traditional Land Use Camp7.7 mb |
The AWN traditional land use camps bring together industry and government with AWN members in a traditional backcountry camp. In this, our natural setting, we find it is easier to explain our concerns regarding development and its adverse impacts. Over the years, the camp has been held in rock Lake Provincial Park, Wilmore Wilderness Park, McDonald Flats, Hide-A-Way Camp (in partnership with the Town of Grande Cache), and Coulters Lease. The scenery is always breathtaking in the Rocky Mountain foothills.
We are able to share our values and relationship with the land; participants become truly aware of what traditional knowledge is. They see the expertise of thousands of years of living off the land, passed down from generation to generation, in the skill and knowledge of the traditional hosts. They see that traditional use of the land still prevails in our community in food, spirituality, clothing, medicine and lodging. Things that define our culture are shared: drumming, singing, hunting, camping, gathering, making traditional clothing and food, understanding weather patterns, identifying animal signs and historical sites, our language and our spirituality. All these define our relationship with the land and form our identity as a People. We are the Rocky Mountain People.
The background music is provided by the James Gang, a group of local aboriginal men who drum and sing traditional round dance songs. The songs and drumming style have been passed down for generations.
Participants at the camp are instructed by local Elders on how to make a traditional native hand drum. Since the camps are held during the summer months, participants are able to work out of doors on their drums.
Camp participants can also choose to make traditional native moccasins. AWN purchases beaded moccasin tops year round from community members in preparation of these summer moccasin making lessons. The moccasin tops are made of deer, elk or moose hide and are beaded in traditional patterns or designs of the Rocky Mountain People. Camp participants choosing to make moccasins choose a design they like, have their feet traced and elders cut the moose hide to make moccasins. The participants are instructed on how to sew the moccasins together to make a beautiful and durable pair of shoes. They are usually surprised at how difficult it is to sew a pair of moccasins after watching our Elders sew quickly and evenly! Many request thimbles after a few stitches. Sinew and Glover needles are used.
While participants are making their crafts, there is time to visit with Elders and learn more about our culture and history. Our elders enjoy sharing or "teaching" about our people and our traditions. They also enjoy a good joke!
Like any camp, food is an important part of the experience. Camp participants enjoy fresh made bannock and wild game meals prepared by community members.
There is time for participants to relax and enjoy their time out of the office. A variety of entertainment is provided ranging from traditional dancing and singing to visits to historical sites.
The AWN President always hosts a talking circle to discuss current issues facing the community and our progress.
Most camp participants leave with a deeper understanding of our people, our history, our challenges, our hopes and our dreams. This not only has lead to better working relationships but lifelong friendships spanning the entire province.
