Anishinabek News articles (2013)

This page lists the Anishinabek News articles from 2013 that have been archived and read for ThunderBay.Wiki, with a short summary of each in our own words. Each entry links to the datum.locker archived copy and to the original article.

24 March 2013 – Trying to erase school failure (archived · original): The Rainbow District School Board and other Ontario schools are implementing cultural programs and curriculum reforms to address the historical educational gap for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students, according to a report in Anishinabek News.
24 March 2013 – Students protest law course changes (archived · original): Students at Lakehead University in Thunder Bay held a sit-in to protest changes to the law school curriculum, specifically the reduction of an indigenous world views course from a full credit to a half credit.
8 April 2013 – Artists and musicians gather at Nbisiing (archived · original): Anishinaabe artists and musicians gathered at Nbisiing Secondary School in Nipissing First Nation for a cultural showcase. The event featured local and visiting creators from communities including Wikwemikong Unceded Territory, Dokis First Nation, and Garden River First Nation.
15 April 2013 – Lots of miigwech’s to all contributors to Anishinaabemowin-Teg (archived · original): The 19th annual Anishinaabemowin-Teg conference celebrated the Anishinaabe language and honored the leader Tecumseh. The event featured a keynote by historian Alan Corbiere and contributions from various organizations including Lakehead University and the Union of Ontario Indians.
15 April 2013 – Dokis forecaster passes on (archived · original): The Dokis First Nation community mourned the passing of Gord Restoule Sr., a respected elder and traditional weather forecaster known for his environmental knowledge and service to the Upper French River region.
15 April 2013 – Sovereignty talk from Idle No More (archived · original): The Union of Ontario Indians and Canadore College hosted a teach-in regarding Idle No More and sovereignty. Speakers discussed the importance of Treaty rights, environmental protection, and the role of media in reporting on Indigenous issues.
15 April 2013 – Teaching kitchen confidence (archived · original): The Fruit Loops Kids Camp in North Bay provided children from Nipissing First Nation with instruction on healthy eating, food preparation, and Anishinaabe cultural practices like smudging during a week-long program.
15 April 2013 – Monument honours resilience of survivors (archived · original): The Union of Ontario Indians unveiled a monument at Nipissing First Nation to honor Indian Residential Schools survivors. The project, funded by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, includes a commemorative book and digital resources.
15 April 2013 – Bill C-45 draws attention on World Water Day (archived · original): During World Water Day events, leaders and advocates highlighted threats to freshwater resources. The Ontario Native Women's Association announced a new water commission, while Josephine Mandamin and Marcel Sahbaquay received recognition for their dedication to water protection.
15 April 2013 – Cousins compete last time (archived · original): Cousins Troy Lajeunesse and Jamie Restoule from Dokis First Nation competed together for the final time at the 2013 Little Native Hockey League tournament before joining Team Northern Ontario for a national championship.
16 April 2013 – Be Safer message on Highway 17 West (archived · original): The Union of Ontario Indians HIV/AIDS Program launched a new billboard on Highway 17 and an educational board game called the Be Safer Game to promote testing for HIV and Hepatitis C.
16 April 2013 – Chamber of Commerce make good business sense (archived · original): The Anishinabek Nation Economic Blueprint proposes creating an Anishinabek Business Association. This organization would function as a chamber of commerce to support First Nation businesses and regional economic development across Ontario.
16 April 2013 – Pic Mobert creates an economy with hydro projects (archived · original): Pic Mobert First Nation is developing the Gitchi Animki Hydroelectric Project to generate revenue and self-sufficiency. The community is also pursuing a larger land base and academic improvements at Netamisakomic Centre for Education while asserting its treaty rights.
16 April 2013 – Community Engagement Sessions head to Pic River (archived · original): The Ojibways of Pic River hosted a Community Engagement Strategy Session on March 27, 2013, to discuss First Nations Constitutions and the Anishinabek Education Agreement with representatives from the Anishinabek Nation.
17 April 2013 – Standing on the land can be felt on your skin (archived · original): Author Richard Wagamese reflects on his spiritual connection to the land and childhood memories of catching minnows, emphasizing how these experiences shaped his perspective on freedom and life as a journey of maintaining balance.
18 April 2013 – Gordon gets new set of wheels (archived · original): A custom-made gurney was presented to Gordon Mianscum, a Canadore College graduate, following a fundraising campaign supported by the Union of Ontario Indians, the Anishinabek Nation Seven Generations Charity, and the North Bay-Nipissing Rotary Club.
18 April 2013 – ‘Gchi-nendama’: Beausoleil language instructors (archived · original): Seven language keepers from Beausoleil First Nation completed an immersion instructor training program to revitalize Anishinaabemowin. The initiative, funded by Canadian Heritage and the First Nation, uses traditional methods and technology to teach children and adults on Christian Island.
23 April 2013 – Alderville man one of the smartest people in Ottawa (archived · original): Alderville First Nation member Alfred Simpson, a computer programmer and member of the high-IQ Prometheus Society, reflects on his education at Lakehead University and his career in technology and web design.
24 April 2013 – Education students learn about FASD (archived · original): Nipissing University education students attended a workshop on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and classroom interventions. The session was led by Laura Liberty from the Union of Ontario Indians to prepare future teachers for supporting students.
26 April 2013 – Car dealership has loyal First Nations customers (archived · original): Village Chrysler Dodge Jeep in Ajax has developed a significant customer base within several First Nation communities. Sales representative Bobby Dickinson reports that word-of-mouth referrals and participation in the Little NHL tournament have driven vehicle sales across Ontario.
29 April 2013 – Paintings part of healing process (archived · original): The Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation donated a Roy Thomas print to the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre to foster a welcoming environment. The hospital also introduced its Aboriginal Advisory Committee to improve healthcare for Indigenous patients.
30 April 2013 – Communities talk constitution (archived · original): The Union of Ontario Indians held several engagement sessions in 2012 and 2013 to discuss constitutions, self-government, and education agreements with Canada. Communities including Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishinaabek and Ojibways of the Pic River First Nation participated in the dialogue.
30 April 2013 – Nipissing welcomes new babies (archived · original): Nipissing First Nation held its annual Welcoming Babies ceremony to celebrate infants born into the community. The event included traditional water and berry teachings for parents and families to support healthy community growth.
2 May 2013 – Language teachers ‘Gchi-nendama’ (archived · original): Seven language keepers from Beausoleil First Nation completed an immersion training program to revitalize Anishinaabemowin. The initiative, supported by Canadian Heritage, trained fluent speakers like Roseanne Monague to teach the language to youth using traditional and digital methods.
6 May 2013 – ‘Nish boys help Ontario skate to silver (archived · original): Several Anishinabek athletes competed for Ontario at the 2013 National Aboriginal Hockey Championships in Kahnawake. The boys' team, including players from Fort William First Nation and Dokis First Nation, earned a silver medal.
7 May 2013 – Election results for Fort William First Nation (archived · original): The official election results for Fort William First Nation were announced following a vote on April 7, 2013, to determine the community leadership for a two-year term, including the selection of a new Chief and council.
7 May 2013 – Proposed education act more ‘crap’ from Harper (archived · original): Anishinabek Nation leaders and protesters in Thunder Bay demonstrated against the proposed First Nations Education Act. Patrick Madahbee and Stan Beardy argued the legislation ignores First Nations rights and lacks proper community consultation.
13 May 2013 – Anishinabek flee flooding (archived · original): Rising water levels in the White Lake watershed led Pic Mobert First Nation to declare an emergency. Residents were evacuated to Geraldton and Thunder Bay, while members of Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation were moved to Sudbury.
13 May 2013 – Tiny tots pow-wow is a celebration of life (archived · original): The Earth Day Tiny Tots Pow-Wow in Thunder Bay celebrated family and tradition. Participants from Lake Helen, Couchiching First Nation, and Neskantaga First Nation shared how the event supports cultural healing and community connection.
21 May 2013 – Nipissing helped launch welding career (archived · original): Delaine Fricker describes how support from Nipissing First Nation and training at Canadore College led to a successful career as a welder with the mining firm Cementation Canada Inc.
22 May 2013 – Fort William bans off-roaders (archived · original): Fort William First Nation has prohibited off-road vehicle use on its lands following the May 2013 desecration of the Mount McKay pow-wow grounds and a confrontation between vehicle operators and a community member.
31 May 2013 – Canada honours Richard (archived · original): The Canada Council for the Arts awarded Richard Wagamese the 2013 Molson Prize for his contributions to the arts. The Wabseemoong First Nation author has written numerous books and previously received a National Aboriginal Achievement Award.
4 June 2013 – Teacher stronger for listening to students (archived · original): Elder Peter Beaucage retired from Canadore College in 2013 after decades of teaching in the Indigenous Wellness and Addictions Prevention program, where he integrated Anishinaabe cultural teachings and ceremonies into addiction recovery and counsellor training.
5 June 2013 – Anishinabek unanimous: Move ahead on education (archived · original): The Anishinabek Nation unanimously approved a strategic plan for the Anishinabek Education System during an assembly at Munsee-Delaware Nation, moving toward independent control of education despite ongoing funding negotiations with the Government of Canada.
10 June 2013 – Unity Walkers visit Union of Ontario Indians head office (archived · original): A group of Unity Walkers visited the Union of Ontario Indians head office at Nipissing First Nation on June 7, 2013. The group is traveling to promote unity among families, communities, and nations.
11 June 2013 – Anishinabek officers honoured (archived · original): Two Anishinabek members of the Ontario Provincial Police were inducted into the Order of Merit of the Police Forces during a ceremony at Rideau Hall in Ottawa, Ontario.
13 June 2013 – Northern Superior Chief supports Generating Station conversion (archived · original): Peter Collins expressed support for a proposal by the City of Thunder Bay to convert the Thunder Bay Generating Station to natural gas to meet rising energy demands from mining.
19 June 2013 – Honoured alumna ‘walking history book’ (archived · original): Lakehead University presented Dolores Wawia with an Alumni Honour Award during its 2013 convocation. The assistant professor was recognized for her extensive contributions to Indigenous education in Northwestern Ontario and at McMaster University.
28 June 2013 – Skimming, stealing, bribery, lying — all in a day’s work for Indian Agents (archived · original): Historian Rhonda Telford examines the history of corruption among Department of Indian Affairs agents on Lake Superior during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, detailing cases of theft, bribery, and financial mismanagement affecting Fort William First Nation.
5 July 2013 – Youth gather for nation-building (archived · original): The Union of Ontario Indians is organizing a youth gathering at Nipissing First Nation to discuss governance and constitutional development. The event, called Anishinabek Eshkeniijig Engagement 2013, aims to involve young people in nation-building initiatives.
17 July 2013 – Father’s Day message (archived · original): The Union of Ontario Indians Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Program held a Father's Day Picnic at Marina Park in Thunder Bay to raise awareness about the importance of alcohol-free pregnancies for preserving oral traditions.
23 July 2013 – Charity raises money for Anishinabek communities (archived · original): The Anishinabek Nation 7th Generation Charity hosted the 15th Annual Anishinabek Veterans Memorial Golf Tournament at the Grandview Golf Club in Huntsville to raise funds for Anishinabek Nation communities and citizens.
25 July 2013 – Trail totems (archived · original): Nipissing First Nation artist Donald Chretien and Jim Menken created ten totem markers for the Nokiidaa Trail in Newmarket. The project was commissioned by the Town of Newmarket to enhance the local trail system.
25 July 2013 – Jody Porter receives Debwewin Citation for journalism excellence (archived · original): The Anishinabek Nation named Thunder Bay journalist Jody Porter the recipient of the Debwewin Citation for her excellence in reporting on First Nations issues and social justice.
26 July 2013 – Youth discuss suicide at safeTalk training (archived · original): The Life Promotion Project: The Gift We Carry held a suicide prevention and photography workshop in Sudbury for Indigenous youth. The initiative, involving Thunder Bay, provides safeTALK training and digital cameras to help young people promote life in their communities.
7 August 2013 – Call me anything but ‘colonized’ (archived · original): Columnist Maurice Switzer argues against the term colonized, discussing the history of European expansion and the ongoing impacts of the Indian Act and Residential Schools on First Nations people in Canada.
8 August 2013 – Wikwemikong Tourism furthers training with hiking trail development (archived · original): The Wikwemikong Development Commission is providing trail development and training services to other communities, including Pic River First Nation, to expand Ontario's eco-tourism and adventure tourism opportunities.
16 August 2013 – Healthy eating in a box (archived · original): The North Bay Indian Friendship Centre launched a Good Food Box program to provide affordable produce to clients. The initiative, supported by the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, has expanded to several First Nation communities.
21 August 2013 – Youth share vision for future of Anishinabek Nation (archived · original): Youth from across the Anishinabek Nation gathered at Beaucage Park for the Eshkeniiji Engagement to discuss leadership and the Chi-Naaknigewin. Participants from Namaygoosisagagun First Nation shared their experiences of attending school in Thunder Bay.
27 August 2013 – Okikendawt Hydro Project on the French River begins construction (archived · original): Dokis First Nation and Hydromega Services have started building the Okikendawt Hydroelectric Project on the French River. The 10-megawatt facility will provide renewable energy to Ontario through a long-term agreement with the Ontario Power Authority.
4 September 2013 – Redskins draw human rights complaint (archived · original): Ian Campeau filed a discrimination complaint with the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario against the Nepean Redskins Football Club. The action seeks to remove the racially offensive name and logo to protect Indigenous children from marginalization.
12 September 2013 – Anishinabek grads include first ‘spirit award’ winners (archived · original): The Anishinabek Educational Institute held its 2013 convocation at Nipissing First Nation, where the first Elaine R. Kelly Spirit Award was presented to four graduates from various programs, including the first Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder certificate recipients.
13 September 2013 – Ruffo’s first film featured Sept. 27 on APTN (archived · original): The Aboriginal Peoples Television Network scheduled the television premiere of A Windigo Tale, a film by Armand Garnet Ruffo that explores the intergenerational trauma of the residential school system through Anishinaabe lore and a family road trip.
19 September 2013 – Indian Agents skimmed resource revenue funds (archived · original): Historian Rhonda Telford reports that the Department of Indian Affairs funded its operations and Indian Agents in Port Arthur by taking significant percentages from First Nation land and resource revenues through the Indian Land Management Fund.
19 September 2013 – Pole walking a better workout (archived · original): The Diabetes Prevention Project distributed equipment for Nordic pole walking to several First Nation communities and friendship centres to promote physical activity and help prevent chronic diseases like Type 2 diabetes.
20 September 2013 – Tipi teachings bring clan system to life (archived · original): The Anishinabek Eshkeniijig Engagement 2013 at Nipissing First Nation taught Anishinabek Nation youth about the clan system and governance through tipi workshops focused on education, health, and land relationships.
23 September 2013 – Youth learn Traditional Governance (archived · original): The Restoration of Jurisdiction department held a community engagement session in Pays Plat First Nation to discuss traditional governance and constitution development with youth and community members during the community's Cultural Week in 2013.
24 September 2013 – Nipissing enacts new financial law (archived · original): Nipissing First Nation has established a new Financial Administration Law to improve governance and transparency. The legislation, supported by Marianna Couchie, aims to strengthen the community's economic independence and financial accountability through formal administrative structures.
25 September 2013 – Festival celebrates five years of showcasing Indigenous film, art and music (archived · original): The fifth annual Biindigaate Indigenous Film Festival in Thunder Bay showcases over 30 films, art exhibits, and musical performances. The 2013 event features works by Alanis Obomsawin, Josephine Mandamin, and local artists to celebrate Indigenous storytelling.
26 September 2013 – School’s summer camp lures potential biologist (archived · original): A student from Fort William First Nation explored healthcare careers and biology at the Northern Ontario School of Medicine Summer Health Sciences Camp held at Lakehead University in Thunder Bay during July 2013.
2 October 2013 – Royal Proclamation 250th anniversary commemoration to include book launch of ‘Nation to Nation’ (archived · original): The Union of Ontario Indians planned a ceremony for October 7, 2013, to mark the 250th anniversary of the Royal Proclamation of 1763 and launch a new book titled Nation to Nation: a resource on treaties in Ontario.
3 October 2013 – Wagamese wins another prize (archived · original): Author Richard Wagamese received the first prize at the inaugural Burt Award for First Nations, Métis and Inuit Literature for his novel Indian Horse, an event supported by CODE to improve literacy among Indigenous youth.
6 October 2013 – The genius of Morriseau (archived · original): Art historian Carmen Robertson and local educators discussed the artistic legacy of Norval Morrisseau during a presentation at the Thunder Bay Art Gallery, emphasizing his creation of a unique visual language and the importance of Woodland art.
8 October 2013 – In the end, we’re all foster parents (archived · original): Author Richard Wagamese reflects on his experiences as a former foster child and discusses the importance of providing stability and relatability to youth currently in the foster care system.
9 October 2013 – Madahbee: Stop education ‘experiments’ (archived · original): Patrick Madahbee of the Union of Ontario Indians criticized the proposed First Nations Education Act, arguing that the Government of Canada should instead support the Anishinabek Education System developed by the Anishinabek Nation.
16 October 2013 – Medicines everywhere we walk (archived · original): Elder Raphael Moses led Lakehead University students on a medicine walk at Mount McKay in Fort William First Nation to share traditional knowledge about the healing properties of local plants and the history of traditional healers.
16 October 2013 – Ottawa supports Niigaan project: ‘Looking to the future’ (archived · original): The Niigaan: In Conversation project in Ottawa received community funding from Soup Ottawa to support its ongoing dialogue between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people, featuring speakers like Andrea Landry and Leanne Betasamosake Simpson.
17 October 2013 – Throne Speech ‘colonial’: Madahbee (archived · original): Patrick Madahbee of the Union of Ontario Indians criticized the 2013 Speech from the Throne, arguing that the federal government maintains a colonial agenda regarding First Nations education, water rights, and land claims in Canada.
17 October 2013 – Thunder Bay welcomes Aboriginal dollars (archived · original): The Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce is encouraging local businesses to display decals welcoming Status Card users. The initiative aims to educate vendors about Treaty rights and the significant economic contributions of Aboriginal consumers in Thunder Bay.
22 October 2013 – Cranberry harvest full of tradition and goodness (archived · original): Thunder Bay resident Ken Wabegijig describes his annual tradition of harvesting wild cranberries at Atikameksheng Anishnawbek. The harvest remains a significant family activity that provides both nutritional and medicinal benefits to the community.
22 October 2013 – Communities trying energy conservation (archived · original): The Ontario Power Authority and David Zimmer announced that twelve communities, including Pic River First Nation and Michipicoten First Nation, will participate in the saveONenergy Aboriginal Conservation Program to reduce electricity use.
23 October 2013 – UOI counsel on committee to study jury representation (archived · original): The Ontario government appointed a committee to implement recommendations from the First Nations Representation on Ontario Juries report. The group, including Jenny Restoule-Mallozzi, aims to address the lack of First Nations people on jury rolls.
23 October 2013 – Participants share their constitution development journeys (archived · original): Representatives from several communities met at a workshop in Sault Ste. Marie to discuss the creation of local constitutions. Panelists shared strategies for community engagement, legal reviews, and the importance of using Anishinaabemowin terminology.
23 October 2013 – Beausoleil student takes first place in dental competition (archived · original): A student from Beausoleil First Nation won a provincial dental health colouring competition organized by the Your Teeth for a Lifetime Foundation in Thunder Bay, highlighting local oral health education efforts on Christian Island.
25 October 2013 – ‘Tree of life’ stood out in the crowd (archived · original): Artist Donald Chretien showcased his work at the McMichael Gallery, including pieces influenced by Norval Morrisseau. The Nipissing First Nation member has illustrated books and created large-scale installations for the 2010 Winter Olympics.
25 October 2013 – Board selection for Kinomaadswin Education Body begins (archived · original): The Kinomaadswin Education Body is holding Regional Education Council meetings across five regions to select a formal board of directors. These sessions support the Anishinabek Education System and the exercise of jurisdiction over education by Anishinabek Nation communities.
25 October 2013 – Education Act repeats mistakes, threatens futures: Madahbee (archived · original): Patrick Madahbee criticized the proposed First Nations Education Act, arguing it repeats colonial mistakes and fails to address funding gaps. He advocated for the Anishinabek Education System as a model for First Nation control over education.
28 October 2013 – Ojibway cuisine more than Kraft Dinner (archived · original): Author Richard Wagamese discusses the cultural importance of traditional Ojibway cuisine, contrasting modern foods with ancestral dishes like moose rubaboo, pickerel, and bannock prepared over open fires in Northwestern Ontario.
28 October 2013 – Mining: ‘More benefits, less paperwork’ (archived · original): Leaders from the Union of Ontario Indians Northern Superior region met at Fort William First Nation to discuss increasing local benefits from mining and addressing the administrative burdens of new Ministry of Northern Development and Mines regulations.
29 October 2013 – Anishinabek mourn passing of Musqueam Chief Ernie Campbell (archived · original): The Anishinabek Nation expressed grief following the death of Ernie Campbell, a long-serving leader of the Musqueam Indian Band who advocated for First Nations rights and oversaw major economic agreements in British Columbia.
5 November 2013 – Watts honoured by Indspire (archived · original): The 2014 Indspire Awards recipients were announced in the House of Commons, including former Union of Ontario Indians program manager Bob Watts, who was recognized for his work in public service.
8 November 2013 – Early Anishinaabe had their own ‘powerpoint’ (archived · original): The Aboriginal Speakers Series at Lakehead University featured John Snake, who discussed Anishinaabe history, migration prophecies, and the cultural significance of birchbark scrolls and the Snake Dance.
8 November 2013 – NAN First Nations declare inherent and treaty right to control education future (archived · original): Leaders from Nishnawbe Aski Nation met in Thunder Bay to declare their inherent and treaty rights to oversee education. The assembly rejected proposed federal legislation in favour of local jurisdiction and self-government for their member communities.
10 November 2013 – ‘Our ally is attacking us’: Madahbee (archived · original): Anishinabek Nation leader Patrick Madahbee marked Remembrance Day by highlighting the historical military contributions of First Nations and criticizing the Crown for infringing on Indigenous sovereignty through recent legislation.
12 November 2013 – Forestry firm cuts wide swath (archived · original): Nipissing First Nation business Young Forestry Services received the First Nations Business Award of Excellence at the Northern Ontario Business Awards. The company provides clearing services for utility firms like Union Gas and Goldcorp across Ontario.
12 November 2013 – Nipissing First Nation prepares for ratification on their Gichi-Naaknigewin (archived · original): Nipissing First Nation prepared for a ratification vote on its constitution, known as the Gichi-Naaknigewin. The process included community consultations and a voting period scheduled from November 2013 to January 2014.
12 November 2013 – Youth to represent Anishinabek Nation at summit (archived · original): The Anishinabek Nation announced that Quinn Meawasige and Nathalie Restoule will represent the territory at the Supporting the Way Forward youth summit in Saskatoon, hosted by the Assembly of First Nations.
12 November 2013 – Kinomaadswin Education Body board members selected (archived · original): The Regional Education Council #4 met at Nbisiing Secondary School in Nipissing First Nation to select representatives for the Kinomaadswin Education Body board as part of the developing Anishinabek Education System.
13 November 2013 – Anishinabek Education System: Doing education ‘our way’ (archived · original): The Anishinabek Nation is developing the Anishinabek Education System to exercise jurisdiction over education. The initiative involves negotiations with Canada and Ontario to support culturally appropriate learning for students on and off reserve.
14 November 2013 – Green smoothies help with balance (archived · original): Holistic Health Coach Sarah Blackwell led a workshop for the Ontario Works Program at Nipissing First Nation, teaching participants how to improve their health and achieve balance by incorporating green smoothies and raw foods into their diets.
14 November 2013 – Grand Council Chief video interview on post-secondary education (archived · original): The Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief discussed post-secondary funding for First Nations students during a November 2013 interview with the Ryersonian.
14 November 2013 – Anishinabek continue to pursue own education system (archived · original): Anishinabek Nation leaders have unanimously voted to reject the proposed First Nations Education Act. The leadership intends to continue developing the Anishinabek Education System to ensure local control over the schooling of their children.
18 November 2013 – Magic of the fall brings dreams of skiing (archived · original): Author Richard Wagamese describes his passion for skiing with his wife and reflects on how he began the sport later in life. The Wabasemong First Nation member also notes the release of his book Him Standing.
18 November 2013 – ‘Seeing a future helps prevent addiction’: Madahbee (archived · original): Anishinabek Nation leaders marked National Addictions Awareness Week in November 2013 by emphasizing the importance of supporting youth and providing education to prevent substance abuse within First Nation communities.
25 November 2013 – Chiefs in Ontario gather for Special Chiefs Assembly (archived · original): The Chiefs of Ontario held a Special Chiefs Assembly in Fort William First Nation to discuss strategic planning, funding cuts, and the proposed First Nation Education Act.
26 November 2013 – Fort William eyes the Ring of Fire road (archived · original): Fort William First Nation is seeking involvement in building transportation infrastructure for the Ring of Fire, according to economic development director Wally Bannon. The community recently completed a local road project to prepare for regional construction opportunities.
2 December 2013 – Film portrays knowledge transfer (archived · original): Anishinaabe scholar Chantelle A.M. Richmond produced a documentary titled Gifts from the Elders, which explores traditional knowledge transfer between youth and elders in Ojibways of Pic River First Nation and Batchewana First Nation of Ojibways.
2 December 2013 – Beatrice Whiteduck passes (archived · original): The Anishinabek Nation is mourning the death of Beatrice Whiteduck, a centenarian from Nipissing First Nation who was recognized as a Silver Cross Mother for her sacrifices during World War II.
4 December 2013 – M’Chigeeng shifts education paradigm (archived · original): At a Special Assembly on Education held at Nipissing First Nation, Neil Debassige presented a model for Anishinaabe student success through local control and a holistic learning paradigm implemented within M'Chigeeng First Nation.
4 December 2013 – Kinomaadswin Education Body Board recognized (archived · original): The Anishinabek Nation confirmed a new board of directors for the Kinomaadswin Education Body during a Special Assembly on Education at Nipissing First Nation to implement the Anishinabek Education System.
4 December 2013 – Anishinabek Education System moves forward (archived · original): The Anishinabek Nation Chiefs in Assembly unanimously rejected the proposed First Nations Education Act and reaffirmed their commitment to establishing the Anishinabek Education System to maintain jurisdiction over the education of their children.
5 December 2013 – Home-schooling, Kenjgewin Teg-style (archived · original): The Kenjgewin Teg Educational Institute launched the Azhiitaawin pilot program in M'Chigeeng First Nation to support first-year university students. The initiative partners with several Ontario universities to provide community-based education and credits while focusing on Indigenous knowledge.
6 December 2013 – Mitch’s chair long way from home (archived · original): The Thunder Bay Indian Youth Friendship Centre is preparing for its 50th anniversary in 2014. The celebrations will honour founder Xavier Michon, a Fort William First Nation member who helped establish the national Friendship Centre movement.
6 December 2013 – ‘Treaties must be part of resource discussions’: Lake Huron Chief (archived · original): Anishinabek Nation leader Isadore Day called on Ontario to include First Nations as full partners in resource development following the withdrawal of Cliffs Natural Resources from the Ring of Fire project in Northwestern Ontario.
9 December 2013 – Law faculty seeks First Nations input (archived · original): Lakehead University signed a protocol agreement with the Union of Ontario Indians and other Indigenous organizations to integrate Aboriginal legal perspectives into the curriculum of the new Faculty of Law in Thunder Bay.
12 December 2013 – Story-telling creates extended communities (archived · original): Faith Juma discusses how traditional storytelling connects communities across the world, drawing parallels between stories from Lake Nipissing and Lago Chie K'bal in Guatemala to illustrate the spiritual and relational power of oral traditions.
16 December 2013 – Respond to racism with reconciliation: Wesley-Esquimaux (archived · original): Cynthia Wesley-Esquimaux of Lakehead University advocates for reconciliation and dialogue following several racist incidents in Thunder Bay, including the vandalism of a teepee and the fire at the James Street Swing Bridge.
17 December 2013 – Young northern entrepreneurs have tasty business ideas (archived · original): Young entrepreneurs from several First Nation communities showcased their business skills at the Robinson Superior Regional Economic Development Summit in Fort William First Nation, following a successful youth entrepreneurship project organized by the Nokiiwin Tribal Council.
26 December 2013 – Understanding brings peaceful solutions (archived · original): Jeff Monague spoke at Lakehead University about the Coldwater-Narrows Land Claim settlement and the successful peaceful protests against the Site 41 waste disposal project, emphasizing education and cooperation as tools for resolving disputes.