Sweetgrass and CFWE news - May 11, 2016

CCAB provides funds to Red Cross for Fort McMurray rebuild

May 11, 2016. The Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business is donating approximately $90,000 raised from its Calgary gala, taking place on Wednesday, to the Canadian Red Cross Alberta Fires Emergency Appeal to help those evacuated from Wood Buffalo. Also to be donated will be proceeds from a raffle for three experiential packages from Tsuut'ina Nation. The gala is to celebrate the selection of Tsuut'ina Nation as this year’s Aboriginal Economic Development Corporation Award winner. “We wanted to use the gala as a respectful rallying point for our member organizations to support Fort McMurray and its people during this difficult time. Time and time again, the Alberta business community has stepped up to help CCAB in its mission to support and grow Aboriginal business in Canada; now it's our turn to give back to Fort McMurray as it looks to heal and rebuild,” said JP Gladu, CCAB president and CEO.

JDRF offering help for type 1 diabetes evacuee families

May 10, 2016. The North Central Alberta & Northwest Territories Chapter of JDRF Canada is coordinating with local type 1 diabetes support groups to provide assistance with insulin-related needs for type 1 diabetes families evacuated from Fort McMurray. Many evacuees have limited access to insulin, test strips and other related supplies. Local social media groups have been active with families offering to share their supplies with families in need. “We are compiling the lists of people that are in need with people who can share some of their supply, both in the Fort McMurray area and in other communities in the region,” said Dorothy Ross, regional director for JDRF in Western Canada.

Feehan applauds Canada’s change in status with UNDRIP

May 10, 2016. Indigenous Relations Minister Richard Feehan is pleased that the federal government has moved from “permanent objector” to fully accepting the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. In a statement issued Tuesday, Feehan applauded Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada Minister Carolyn Bennett for calling for “a renewed relationship based on respect, co-operation, partnership and the recognition of rights.” Feehan also acknowledged NDP MP Romeo Saganash for more than 20 years of helping to construct the declaration. Following her election last year, Premier Rachel Notley directed her Cabinet ministers to review programs and services in relation to the UN Declaration. “Changing a relationship will not happen overnight. But I am confident that our journey together will lead to a better life for Indigenous peoples, and all Albertans,” said Feehan.