FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 22, 2018
Nova Scotia is recognizing the importance of Mi’kmaw heritage and Mi’kmaw youth sport and recreation activities through a new licence plate.
“The new Mi’kmaw licence plate is one way we can enhance visibility and appreciation of Mi’kmaw culture in Nova Scotia” said Premier Stephen McNeil, also Minister of Aboriginal Affairs.
“I’m pleased to see more action coming from our ongoing work with the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq Chiefs.”
The plate features a Mi’kmaw petroglyph that many Mi’kmaq connect to the eight-point star, which has political and historical significance, while some connect the image to the traditional districts of Mi’kma’ki which is Mi’kmaw traditional territory.
“It is great to see this project become a reality,” said Chief Wilbert Marshall, assembly’s lead on culture, heritage and archaeology. “We thank all those who provided input into selecting the design of the plate and where money from the plates should go. This truly is a project that involved our community members and something that we all can be very proud of.”
A $24 donation fee will be collected with every purchase or renewal of the new plate which will go to support Mi’kmaw youth sport and recreation activities.
The establishment of the plate was listed as a specific action item in the Nova Scotia Culture Action Plan commitment to increase the visibility and appreciation of Mi’kmaw culture.