Mi’kmaw Language Legislation Proclaimed
Legislation to recognize Mi’kmaw as Nova Scotia’s first language was proclaimed today, July 17, by the Province and affirmed by the Mi’kmaq during a ceremony in Potlotek First Nation in Richmond County.
Mi’kmaw Chiefs signed a resolution to affirm and uphold the provincial legislation on behalf of their communities.
“Today was an opportunity to gather in community and celebrate the partnership with Mi’kmaq who co-developed this legislation,” said Premier Tim Houston. “This proclamation is another key milestone as we move forward on the path toward reconciliation.”
The Mi’kmaw Language Act will take effect on October 1, Treaty Day, and will support efforts to protect and revitalize the language. The legislation was passed by the legislature in April.
Quotes:
“As the Grand Chief of our Mi'kmaw Nation, I always stress the importance of our language because all of our history, teachings and cultural identity is held there. The governments of the past attacked us through our language when our children were punished for speaking it, but despite all of the efforts to destroy it, our language is still here and we are still here, and that shows our resilience as a people. Since the release of the Truth and Reconciliation report and the Calls to Action, I am pleased that we have begun to work collaboratively with the government to ensure that our language thrives and flourishes for our future generations.”
– Norman Sylliboy, Grand Chief of the Mi’kmaq Grand Council
“Today is a celebratory occasion, made all the more meaningful by the ongoing tradition of the Mi’kmaw Summer Games. I am continually inspired by the sense of pride that exists in Mi’kmaw communities. All Nova Scotians benefit from the promotion and preservation of the Mi’kmaw language and all that it contributes to our cultural identity.”
– Arthur J. LeBlanc, Lieutenant-Governor of Nova Scotia
“I’m pleased we can be together here during the Mi’kmaw Summer Games, a celebration of culture and strength of community through sport. Mi’kmaw language is an essential part of cultural identity and celebrating the Mi’kmaw language here today is a great way to proclaim the Mi’kmaw Language Act.”
– Karla MacFarlane, Minister of L’nu Affairs
Quick Facts:
- the Mi’kmaw Language Act supports Nova Scotia’s collaboration with the Mi’kmaq to respond to the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Calls for Justice, to ensure meaningful access to Indigenous language, culture and identity as a foundation for resilience and safety
- the legislation reinforces the importance of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action for governments to preserve, promote, revitalize and protect Aboriginal languages through legislation and education
- the Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Summer Games are being held in Potlotek until July 24
Additional Resources:
News release – Legislation Enshrines Mi’kmaw as Nova Scotia’s First Language: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20220407003
News release – Truth and Reconciliation Day Recognized in Nova Scotia: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20210903008