October 28, 2020
“While the recent decisions of Sipekne’katik and Membertou to step away from the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs is disappointing news for all of us, we have always respected the autonomy of our communities. We are pleased to have worked alongside Chief Terrance Paul and Chief Mike Sack for many years, and we recognize that we are at a critical point in exercising and implementing our Treaty Rights, which can come with a range of thoughts and opinions. As a Nation, we have and will continue to respect that.
The Made-In-Nova Scotia Process, through the Kwilmu’kw Maw-klusuaqn Negotiation Office (KMKNO), has always stood firm and been committed to the protection of our historic Treaties. While we have been met with obstacles in our discussions with Canada on moderate livelihood, these discussions are only one of our many files. There is much work being done, collectively as a Nation, and we will continue to move this important work forward. We are proud of the work that the Assembly and KMKNO is doing for the Mi’kmaq of Nova Scotia, and because we are stronger together, we will remain open to Membertou and Sipekne’katik coming back to the table, if and when they decide that is what is best for their communities.”
Chief Sidney Peters
Co-Chair, Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs