National Indigenous Peoples Day

NOTE: The following is a statement by Premier Stephen McNeil.

Today, June 21, is National Indigenous Peoples Day. It is a day for celebrating the cultures and contributions of the First Nations, Inuit and Métis in Canada.

Mi’kmaw culture is vibrant and strong in Nova Scotia. Cultural awareness and understanding help strengthen our treaty relationship.

Through our treaty education partnership, we have created school curriculum and resources for elementary students, and we are expanding that work to junior high and high school. Hand drums are available in every elementary school music room in the province, and it is becoming more common to hear students in public schools singing the Mi’kmaw Honour Song. A treaty education speaker’s bureau to support public education has been created, and presenters are engaging government departments, businesses, not-for-profit organizations, community groups, and conference participants throughout the province.

This work is important for two reasons. It engages all Nova Scotians in a conversation about our shared treaty relationship and about how we can work together for the future prosperity of our province.

We understand that treaty education is a long-term, generational process that will continue by working closely with elders, knowledge-holders and education professionals.

Recently, we started working together to revitalize the Mi’kmaw language in all Mi’kmaw communities in Nova Scotia. This priority was outlined in the province’s Culture Action Plan and demonstrates our respect for, and commitment to, the promotion of the Mi’kmaw language.

Earlier this month, an historic event took place in Ottawa when the final report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls was presented to the prime minister. Here in Nova Scotia, our government is committed to making sure we eradicate violence against Indigenous women, girls, two-spirited and trans people, and we are reviewing the report in depth.

Next year will be an exciting one for Nova Scotia as we host the North American Indigenous Games with over 5,000 Indigenous athletes in 15 sports. These games will bring significant economic and social opportunities to our province, leaving a legacy of development and growth for the Mi’kmaq.

While we recognise the importance of Mi’kmaw culture every day, it is today, National Indigenous Peoples Day, when we celebrate the contributions of Indigenous people across the country.

As premier and Minister responsible for Aboriginal Affairs, I encourage you to learn more about Mi’kmaw culture and participate in cultural celebrations.