This year marks the 27th anniversary of Mi’kmaq History Month. In 1993, John Savage, the then Premier of Nova Scotia and Mi’kmaw Grand Chief Ben Sylliboy, declared October the official month to recognize and celebrate Mi’kmaw culture and heritage. This month is also an important reminder to our ongoing commitment to peace, friendship, reconciliation, and justice.
Terena Francis, the coordinator for Indigenous Student Affairs at StFX, says Mi’kmaq History Month is when we highlight some issues, but it shouldn’t only be limited to one month a year. "We need more faculty to incorporate Indigenous Knowledge in their curriculum, and of course being fully informed of the topics is a must.” “Not just faculty but all the campus community should know about the significance of the Treaty Day,” Terena stresses, adding that “the Mi’kmaw are not the only ones to celebrate Treaty Day, we are all Treaty People."
The Miꞌkmaq are a First Nations people of the Northeastern Woodlands, native to the areas now known as Canada's Atlantic Provinces and Quebec as well as the northeastern region of Maine. The Mi’kmaq have maintained sophisticated and deep knowledge about Mi’kma’ki—its animals, plants, habitats, weather, tides, seasons, cycles, landscapes, and seascapes. This knowledge is contained in the language and oral history that has been passed on through generations. Says Terena: "Mi’kmaq people are one with the earth. The Mi’kmaq took what they needed and wasted nothing. It is about sustainability and that's part of our spirituality, that's how we live."
"One of the main reasons for lack of cultural awareness about Mi’kmaw culture and traditions is the absence of Indigenous perspectives. The lack of knowledge and understanding about our Indigenous history creates ignorance in regard to our past and our present," Terena observes. A big part of Terena's job at the campus is to support Indigenous students to be successful with their academics. Teresa takes a holistic approach to the overall development of the Indigenous students. "I help the students navigate the campus community," says Terena. Her focus is on ensuring student success. "I also help with financial resources, filling out scholarship forms and bursaries. I offer academic support through tutoring and note takers. In addition to this, Terena offers the Indigenous students support and mental strength. "The most important thing is that I can relate to the students. I know where they are coming from and they can relate to me."