September 18, 2020
Effective immediately, the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs (Assembly) is declaring a State of Emergency due to political unrest for the whole of the mainland of Nova Scotia. This decision is in response to the violence occurring over Mi’kmaq fisheries across the province. This state of emergency may later be extended to include Cape Breton Island.
Under this State of Emergency, an emergency command centre will be established in a central, undisclosed location. Representatives of the Mi’kmaw Nation will be present on the ground to support Mi’kmaw harvesters, their families, and supporters. The Assembly will be coordinating assistance and support across organizations and service providers in order to protect the safety and security of Mi’kmaq effected by this political unrest.
This State of Emergency shall be effective immediately, up to and including 5pm on Tuesday, September 22nd 2020, with possibility of extension at that time.
We are further calling on the Canadian Department of Fisheries and Oceans, RCMP, and the Government of Nova Scotia to assist in the protection of Mi’kmaw fishers, families, and supporters.