Treaty Day Events Postponed

This year’s Treaty Day celebration, scheduled for Monday, October 3, in Halifax, has been postponed due to the continuing impacts of hurricane Fiona.

The Province, Mi’kmaq Grand Council, Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs and the Treaty Day Committee made the decision.

October 1 is Treaty Day in Nova Scotia and marks the start of Mi’kmaq History Month.

September 26 to 30 is Truth and Reconciliation Week in Canada, and Nova Scotia will recognize Friday, September 30, as Truth and Reconciliation Day as planned. Provincial government offices, public schools and regulated child care will be closed that day. September 30 is also Orange Shirt Day, which public schools and others will recognize on Thursday, September 29.

Quotes:

“The treaty relationship is important to all Nova Scotians and we will gather together and celebrate Treaty Day at a later date when it’s safe to do so. At this time, our shared focus is on supporting people and communities affected by the hurricane.”

– Karla MacFarlane, Minister of L’nu Affairs

“We understand that many are still without power and do not have access to basic needs yet. Right now, it is more important to make sure that everyone is safe and secure before we come together in celebration.”

– Grand Chief Norman Sylliboy, Mi’kmaq Grand Council

“We recognize the impacts hurricane Fiona has had throughout Mi’kma’ki and the situation that many of our communities are still in. We must ensure that the needs of our communities and people come first. That is why we have come together, nation to nation, to make the decision to postpone next week’s Treaty Day event.”

– Chief Annie Bernard-Daisley, Co-Chair, Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs