FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SEPTEMBER 23, 2019
The Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs is proud to announce today the launch of the Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Enrollment Process.
“September 23rd is more than just the first day of autumn for us,” said Chief Paul Prosper, Justice Lead for the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs. “It is now a historic day for our Nation. Our Enrollment Process is an important act of self-determination and the first step to self-governance.”
As the first people of Nova Scotia, the Mi’kmaq have Aboriginal and Treaty Rights. Part of these Rights includes access to provincially regulated renewable natural resources by means of hunting, fishing and gathering for food and a moderate livelihood.
The Assembly has long heard that those who are accessing these Rights must be recognized by the Nation as Mi’kmaq rights-holders. Part of the Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Enrollment Process will be to issue Harvester Identification Cards, for eligible Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw, including non-status Mi’kmaq and Mi’kmaq on the Atlantic General List.
“Our Process is based on the values and traditions that the Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq have stated are important to our identity,” continued Chief Prosper. “This Process is from the people, as defined by the people.”
The Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw will pilot the Wula Na Kinu – Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Enrollment Process and individuals who are non-Status, or are registered Status Indians on the Atlantic General List will be able to make an application for a Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Harvester Identification Card to exercise their Aboriginal and Treaty Rights.
For more information on the Process and to view the video on how this came to be, visit: www.mikmawNS.ca