The Assembly welcomed Chief Cory Julian to his first meeting with the Assembly of Nova Scotia Chiefs.
Chief Sidney Peters spoke about the funding announcement recently made by the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre (MNFC). On October 27, it was announced that the MNFC would receive $28.8 million in federal investment to support the construction of a new building.
Mi’kmaw linguist, Bernie Francis, spoke about the names being considered for the Mi’kmaw cultural tourism authenticity logo. Mi’kmawitask – which means Mi’kmaw made – was selected by the Assembly. KMK presented the reformatted logo designs, with changes requested at the September Assembly meeting. The Assembly chose a logo from the options developed.
KMK spoke on legislative amendments to the Indian Act, being proposed by Canada. The Assembly discussed band membership and the lack of consultation. They directed KMK to issue a media release, draft a letter for their review and develop a draft resolution for the Assembly of First Nations outlining their concerns with this process.
KMK provided an update on spruce budworm and hemlock woolly adelgid.
KMK presented the draft Nationhood Conference agenda to the Assembly. The agenda was approved. Discussion was had about starting an “Order of the Mi’kmaq.”
An update was provided by KMK on the release of Dr. Fred Wien’s new book on livelihood fisheries.
Chief Bob Gloade discussed the need to meet with the provincial government and Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to discuss taxation. A request has gone to the Province and the Minister of L’nu Affairs for an in-person meeting to discuss provincial tax exemption. A request will also be sent to CRA.
Regional Chief Prosper the legal team from the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) provided an update on the recent developments and discussions with the Canadian Human Right Tribunal and First Nations child welfare settlement agreements. This topic will be discussed in further detail when Chiefs come together again in November with the AFN.
