(Kjipuktuk – Halifax, NS) — The Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre (MNFC) will host a series of events on the Halifax Waterfront to mark the inaugural National Day of Truth and Reconciliation. “We view this as a tremendous opportunity to share Mi’kmaq culture with non-Indigenous and Indigenous people alike as we continue on the journey of reconciling the impact of the Residential schools on our people,” said Pam Glode Desrochers, MNFC Executive Director. “It is essential that we share our story as far and as wide as possible and we are grateful to have access to one of the most recognizable venues in the region to do this.”

Develop Nova Scotia is supporting the weekend by making the Sands at Salter location available along with on site resources. “We have developed a tremendous partnership with the Friendship Centre and we are honoured to play a part in the weekend of Reconciliation as they generously share these meaningful, historic and spiritual aspects of Mi’kmaw culture,” said Develop Nova Scotia President and CEO Jennifer Angel.

Events and activities will provide historical context, accessible crafts, Mi’kmaw song and dance as well as on site resources for all participants.  A salmon dinner for up to 500 people on Treaty Day is reflective of the Mi’kmaw people’s communal way of life in sharing a traditional meal with the general public. MNFC staff and volunteers will also share take away information on the significance of Truth and Reconciliation for Indigenous and non-Indigenous people.  Each day will begin with a traditional opening prayer and song.

Event Listing:

Thursday Sept. 30th  – Orange Shirt Day 10:00 am – 3:00 pm

• Opening Prayer/ Song

• Welcome Remarks / History of Orange Shirt Day

• Painting craft on Orange Shirts

Friday Oct. 1st – Treaty Day 10:00 am – 3:00 pm

• Opening Prayer / song / remarks

• Traditional Salmon Dinner – (First come first served to 500)

• Welcome / History of Treaties in Mi’kma’ki

• Live Entertainment – Videos played throughout the day on treaty conflicts in Mi’kma’ki

Saturday Oct. 2nd – Family Day 12 noon – 3:00 pm

• Opening Prayer / Song / Remarks

• Open Mic for Artists

• Crafts for Children

• Indigenous Music & pow wow dance demonstrations

Contact:

Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre: 902-420-1576

Media Contact: 902 209 3234 – Corinne@groupatn.ca