Mi'kmaq Teaching Materials Distributed to High Schools

The Office of Aboriginal Affairs has provided Nova Scotia high schools with new videos and a teacher's learning guide encouraging the exploration of the history and culture of the Mi'kmaq. The materials have gone to teachers in Grades 10 and 11 in all provincial schools which provide instruction in Mi'kmaq studies and Canadian history.

"This is a significant addition to the instructional material already available to those teaching the history and culture of the Mi'kmaq," said Aboriginal Affairs Minister Michael Baker. "The Office of Aboriginal Affairs has worked closely with the Mi'kmaq to prepare the videos and learning guide."

"We're pleased with the Office of Aboriginal Affairs efforts in making this information available to non-aboriginal high school students throughout the province," said Chief Lawrence Paul, co-chair, Assembly of Nova Scotia chiefs. "It is important that students learn more about the Mi'kmaq's contributions towards Nova Scotia's past and future."

"As more Nova Scotians become interested and aware of the diverse and rich cultures of the Mi'kmaq, barriers come down and positive change results," said Education Minister Karen Casey. "This important educational resource provides one more important step in this process."

In addition to the learning guide, the kit contains three videos.

Wabanaki: People of the Dawn Part I, was produced by the Office of Aboriginal Affairs following the discovery of more than 20,000 artifacts in the Mersey River in 2004 after Nova Scotia Power lowered waters levels to repair power dams. It details the history and culture of the tribes that belonged to the Wabanaki Confederacy in the Atlantic region and the northeastern United States.

The film has won two awards. In 2006, it was awarded the Gemstone Award for video excellence, and producer John Soosaar, communications advisor for the Office of Aboriginal Affairs, received the Premier's Award for Excellence in June.

The second video is Wabanaki: People of the Dawn Part II. It is made up of four portraits of the Mi’kmaq today and examines spirituality, health care, business and education.

A Meeting of Nations is the third video sent to schools. It examines the history of treaties the Mi’kmaq signed with the British Crown in the 1700s and their significance today.

October is Mi'kmaq History Month in the province.