Stories and Science of Our Transboundary Rivers Submitted By: Native Lands & Resources
On April 3rd, President Richard Peterson and Environmental Specialist Jennifer Hanlon participated in “Stories and Science of our Transboundary Rivers” at the University of Alaska-Southeast Juneau campus which provided an overview on current and proposed large scale mines located on transboundary rivers in British Columbia (BC) that may impact Southeast Alaska and the experiences of First Nations impacted by mining in BC. The event included presentations by filmmaker Ryan Peterson and First Nation representative Jacinda Mack, a screening of the film Xboundary, and a panel discussion with President Peterson and Jennifer. Ryan, an independent Alaska filmmaker, discussed the making of Xboundary, a short film that features interviews with those concerned about transboundary mining including fishermen, tourism guides, First Nations, and the Southeast tribes, and the impacts from the Mount Polley Mines tailings failure in central BC. Xboundary includes interviews with 2nd Vice President Rob Sanderson Jr. and Jennifer. Jacinda, Mining Coordinator for the Northern Shuswap Tribal Council from central British Columbia, shared the impacts of Mount Polley Mine tailings failure to her community and her wishes that this does not happen to any other communities. The presentations were followed by a panel discussion comprised of Heather Hardcastle, owner of Taku River Reds; Dave Chambers, President of Center for Science in Public Participation; and President Peterson and Jennifer. President Peterson talked about his experience in Kasaan with its mining history and the observed impacts this had on the customary and traditional resources such as the herring spawn, his meeting with mining companies, and Central Council’s work – including outreach to media and plans on bringing the transboundary issue to the United Nations. Jennifer talked about the United Tribal Transboundary Mining Work Group (UTTMWG), a group of 13 tribal governments working to protect our ancestral lands and waters in the transboundary region, and how the UTTMWG’s main concern is that the Tribes have not been consulted in any decision-making for the transboundary mines. Nearly 200 participants attended the event and inspired thoughtful discussion. Central Council appreciated the opportunity to provide more awareness on transboundary mining and encourage tribal citizens who want more information on transboundary mining to contact us. You can view Xboundary at: https://vimeo.com/119170132
Employer Recruitment for Work Experience Program Submitted By: Office of the President
The Employment & Training department is recruiting local employers who are interested in partnering with Central Council under the Work Experience program. Providing training opportunities and work experience is key to helping our tribal citizens succeed in life and become self-sufficient. The program is designed to provide Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) recipients and other clients with work opportunities that will lead to increased employability through job skills, knowledge, and work behavior growth. Under the program, TANF recipients are placed in temporary, entry-level positions with partner businesses and organizations. During the employment term, the Work Experience program will cover a portion or all of a participant’s pay. If your business or organization is interested in participating as an employer, please contact: Elizabeth Church, Manager Employment & Training • Work Experience Direct: 907.463.7332 • Toll Free: 800.344.1432 ext. 7332 • Email: echurch@ccthita.org
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