Celebrating Mi'kmaq History Month

For the first time, the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission has organized an open house as part of Mi'kmaq History Month celebrations.

"It is important that the commission reach out into the community to eliminate racism and to help create a more open and welcome society for everyone," said Jim Smith, Minister responsible for administering the Human Rights Act. "It is our hope that the open house will promote awareness in the aboriginal community of the services that the commission provides."

Statistics from the human rights commission show the number of complaints made by aboriginal persons is low. Though the commission handles hundreds of complaints in a year, since 1996 there have only been 14 complaints filed by persons alleging that they have experienced discrimination because of aboriginal origin.

"We do not feel that this number truly reflects the problems that aboriginal people may face in society," said Heather McNeill, a commissioner with the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission. "As an aboriginal person I know this to be true. Aboriginal people face discrimination daily in overt and subtle ways."

The Nova Scotia Human Rights Act has protected aboriginals from discrimination on the basis of race since 1969. Since 1991, the act has included a specific provision prohibiting discrimination based on aboriginal origin.

Today's events included a traditional chanting and drum ceremony, an opening prayer and sweetgrass ceremony by Noel Knockwood, and speeches, videos and information about Mi'kmaq heritage and culture. "The open house is an important event because it honours aboriginal tradition, culture and history," said McNeill.

The commission's open house is one of many events planned in October across the province to recognize and celebrate Mi'kmaq History Month.