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The Aboriginal Women's Action Network (AWAN) held a training workshop on participatory research at University of British Columbia's First Nations House of Learning recently. The gathering was the second phase in AWAN's research project investigating and analyzing the impact of Bill C-31 on the lives of Aboriginal women and their children.

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It took a lot of courage for Yvonne Carter to go back to school, not only as a shy Elder working in a classroom full of younger students, but as a survivor of the residential school system. That was an experience which left her frightened and confused and saddled with a legacy of broken Cree, broken English and a smattering of French.

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Blessed Creator:

Lot's to share since I last wrote. Where does one begin? First of all to the blessed folks in Northern Saskatchewan, let's dispel any rumors that I am gravely ill. It's not true. Best thing to do - check it out. Phone my band office at (780) 470-4505. The receptionist is always the first to know. I appreciate the concerns and good prayers.

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Like many First Nations communities, the Manitoba communities of Garden Hill, Wasagamack, Red Sucker Lake and St. Theresa Point have struggled with the effects of an ever increasing incidence of diabetes among their 7,500 residents. Since 1990 the rate of diabetes in these communities has doubled, according to recent health statistics.

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It was a plan that worked, perhaps even better than expected.

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The Indigenous Sport Council of Alberta says Saskatchewan is not going to participate in the Hobbema games. Sources say Manitoba has, or soon will, make the same decision.

Barb Modeste, executive assistant of the Alberta sport council, explains that the Saskatchewan Indian Summer Games are so close, timewise, to the western games that it would just be too much for them to handle, especially on the money end of things.

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Maple Leaf Gardens may not be the home of the Toronto Maple Leafs anymore but a new tenant, the Toronto Rock of the National Lacrosse League, is making sure fans are still lining up for exciting action at this hallowed hall of sports.

More than 9,000 fans filled the stands to see the Toronto Rock roll over the New York Saints 13-9 on Feb. 26.

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It's a little bit country, a little bit rock and roll, and it's all fun.

Prince Albert, Sask. was treated to the seventh installment of Voices of the North on Feb. 18 to 20 as part of the Prince Albert Winter Festival, and organizers say the music showcase is getting bigger and better with each year.

The show features the best of Aboriginal talent from around Saskatchewan and has become one of the highlights of the yearly winter festival.

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Edmontonians recently had the opportunity to sit back, relax and enjoy the original songs and music of Canadian folk music artist Dennis Lakusta, a Metis who now lives in Victoria.

Performing before a packed house at Edmonton's Full Moon Folk Club, Lakusta introduced the audience to a few choice cuts from his new and third CD, Crow-child. One of the songs, "The Warrior's Song," tells the tale of Canada's most historic personalities, the Metis leader, Louis Riel.

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If ever there was an idealist committed to her own convictions, it is Carrie Taylor.

C. J., as she is more commonly known, is an accomplished artist who absolutely refuses to apply for, or accept handouts, in particular, of the government variety.

For that reason, she does not make overtures for funds from the Department of Canadian Heritage, Canada Council, or the National Aboriginal Arts Foundation, she asserts.