Metepenagiag Mi’kmaq Nation, located at the head of tide of the Miramichi River in New Brunswick, is taking steps to address the steady decline in Mi’kmaq language speakers. The majority of youth in the community struggle with basic greetings and conversations in Mi’kmaq, prompting the Nation to begin offering language classes for youth and other learners.
Like many First Nations, Peskotomuhkati Nation at Skutik in New Brunswick has long been looking for opportunities to preserve its history, language, and culture. A chance to do so emerged in 2018, when the Canadian federal government transferred ownership of Camp Chiputneticook to the Nation. The large property and lodge, closely tied to Passamaquoddy history, was also home to over 100 artefacts, including tools, beaded clothing, jewelry, woven baskets, and canoes, making it the first known collection of Passamaquoddy objects in Canada.
The XYE Cree Speakers' Society was founded in 2021 by Milton Tootoosis, a nêhiyaw of the Poundmaker Cree Nation in Treaty Six Territory, with the goal to revitalize the Plains Cree language and promote the teachings of Cree Elders and traditional speakers. This learning process often challenges conventional Western education and requires a commitment to reconciling both worlds.
The Nignen Women's Shelter in Natoaganeg, New Brunswick, has recently been established to serve 15 Mi'kmaw and Wolastoqiyik communities. It is the first Indigenous women's shelter located on First Nation land in New Brunswick and is looking to provide a culturally safe space for women in need.
Many Indigenous youth in Thunder Bay, Ontario, find themselves far from their home as they pursue their education. The physical distance from family and community can create a sense of identity loss and isolation, making it difficult to maintain a connection with their cultural roots.
Gignoo Transition House near Fredericton, New Brunswick, has been a sanctuary for Indigenous women and children since 1993. The organization helps families overcome the impact of intergenerational trauma stemming from Canada’s history of residential schools, Indian day schools, and the 60s scoop. At Gignoo, vulnerable and at-risk families find support and protection as they look to heal and break cycles of trauma in their communities.
