As the leaves begin to turn each fall in Mi'kma'ki, we celebrate Mi'kmaq History Month.

The theme of Mi'kmaq History Month this year is Nepisulti’k: We Are Healing. The theme emphasizes the fact that healing is a lifelong journey—one that is unique to each of us. It encompasses how we understand ourselves, our connections to one another, and how community is an integral part of healing.

While the month is a time for Mi'kmaq people to come together in community to celebrate their culture, it's importantly also a time for all of us who live in Mi'kma'ki to learn about the lands we occupy and the stewards who have lived on them for millennia.

As part of the planning committee, Jordan Smith (Nikamawti'ket - Indigenous Student Advisor) says she is looking forward to seeing wide community participation and learning throughout October. She hopes the entire Acadia community will feel welcomed to participate in events and learning more about Mi’kmaq culture and traditions and how they can play a role in how we live our lives.

“I think it's important for us to understand the history of the lands which we live, work and learn on,” Jordan explains. “History has shaped our present and is reflected in the relationships we have with each other and our environment today. There is a lot of knowledge within Mi’kmaq communities that can contribute to addressing modern issues such as global warming, food insecurity, and building healthy relationships.”

“I hope that people will be more understanding of the challenges Indigenous people in Canada face. I hope it will encourage allyship and for people to take an active role in reconciliation.”

Most of all, though, Jordan is looking forward to being able to reconnect with community members. “I love the sounds of a community gathering; kids playing, aunties laughing, hearing the Mi’kmaw language and of course, drumming.”

Recognizing Orange Shirt Day at Acadia

Before Mi'kmaq History Month kicks off here in Mi’kma’ki on October 1, people from coast to coast to coast recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day, on September 30.

This year, we will be commemorating Orange Shirt Day on September 29 to give the campus community an opportunity to come together at Acadia.

Staff from the Department of L’nu Affairs will be set up at tables outside between University Hall and Rhodes Hall (rain venue: BAC outside the Beveridge Cafe) to chat with our community about what Orange Shirt Day is from 12:00-4:00. Students will have the chance to make their own Orange Shirt Day pins and join in group photos.

For those who wants to learn more and get involved throughout the month of October and beyond, there will be plenty of opportunities.

Events planned by the Acadia community and organizations off campus blend together the university and larger Wolfville community, giving us a chance to learn together.

On Acadia’s campus, events include the annual Sisters in Spirit Vigil and a talk by Indigenous artist, Cruzer Meuse, exploring the connections between Indigenous art, identity, community, and lived experience. Acadia students can also register to hop on a free bus heading from campus to the Glooscap Powwow in Windsor on October 18.

Off campus, Acadia is collaborating with the Town of Wolfville and the Al Whittle Theatre on more ways to learn and get involved. Soup & Sides at the Wolfville Farmer’s Market on September 28 will feature Sandy Fisher, and you can catch a free screening of No More Stolen Sisters at the Al Whittle on October 6. All month long, the County of Kings will be hosting a Mi’kmaw art exhibit, with an opening celebration on October 2.

For more events and full details, keep your eye on the Office of Indigenization and L'nu Affairs page.