Statement from the Chair: Mi’kmaq History Month
Throughout October Nova Scotians have a special opportunity to honor the rich heritage, culture, and contributions of Mi’kmaq people, as well as reflect on our shared history and the importance of upholding the treaties that underpin our relationships.
Treaty Day, celebrated on October 1, reaffirms our collective commitment to the Peace and Friendship Treaties that are meant to ensure relationships of respect, trust and shared responsibility between Indigenous peoples and settlers. These treaties are living documents, not relics of the past, and they continue to shape our present and our future. Honoring Treaty Day is about recognizing these commitments and our obligations to uphold them, ensuring justice and equity for Indigenous communities.
Mi’kmaq History Month is an invitation to dive deep into our individual and collective responsibilities to foster respectful relationships, celebrate the vibrant traditions, knowledge, and ways of life that have shaped this land for thousands of years. The Mi’kmaq are the past, present and future stewards of Mi’kmaq’ki, with a legacy of resilience, wisdom, and innovation. Whether it's through storytelling, art, music, or exploring the natural world, this month allows us to learn from and celebrate the beauty of Mi'kmaq culture. It’s a time for all Nova Scotians to connect with these traditions, fostering a sense of respect, curiosity, and appreciation.
This month, lets all take time to participate in events, learn, and reflect on the work we can do to contribute to reconciliation. By embracing Mi’kmaq History Month and Treaty Day, we strengthen our connection to one another and to the land we share. I invite you to reflect on our history and move forward with open hearts and minds, celebrating Mi’kmaw people, and working toward a better, more inclusive future for all.
Cynthia Dorrington is the Chair of the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission.
Get Involved
- Participate in events and celebrations.
- Share stories of Mi’kmaq culture with friends and family.
- Educate yourself about our treaty relationships.
Resources
- Mi’kmaq History Month
- Mi'kmaq First Nations Map (Nova Scotia)
- Fact sheet, Peace and Friendship Treaties in the Maritimes and Gaspe
- Mi'kmaw Place Names Digital Atlas
- Mi'kmaw language teachings from Bernie Francis (CBC/YouTube)
- Online Mi'gmaq/Mi'kmaq Language Dictionary
- Truth and Reconciliation | Halifax Public Libraries
- Mi’kmaw History & Culture | Halifax Public Libraries
- National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation
- Mi’kmawey Debert Culture Centre
- Office of L'nu Affairs
- Union of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq
- United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples