Economic Development-Celebrating Communities-Special Features

Wabanaki: People of the Dawn Part Two

The Mi'kmaq are an integral part of life in Nova Scotia, however, their contributions in education, culture and business are not well known among the general population. In order to familiarize all Nova Scotians with the dedicated work the Mi'kmaq are doing today, and the systemic discrimination they have endured over the years, the Office of Aboriginal Affairs, in conjunction with Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, produced Wabanaki: People of the Dawn Part Two. This film profiles the Mi'kmaq as they are today: a vigorous community meeting the challenges of the 21st century, but struggling to retain the culture, history and language of their ancestors. It is a composite portrait of people trying to restore family lives after the trauma of residential schools; gaining a foothold in the business life of Nova Scotia in the post-Marshall era; reflecting on the importance of ancient spirituality and celebrating the life of an individual who has contributed to the education of both cultures.

Joe B. Marshall, executive director of the Union of Nova Scotia Indians, recalls the difficulties his people endured in the 20th century and outlines their hopes for the future. A lawyer and respected elder, he persevered to get an education and has provided the leadership integral to the Mi'kmaq community today. In 2002, the Mi'kmaq, Nova Scotia and Canada signed the Umbrella Agreement, marking the start of discussions to resolve issues on Aboriginal and treaty rights. It is the first time the Crown and the Mi'kmaq have come together in Nova Scotia to seek agreement on issues of such fundamental importance since the treaties were signed more than 200 years ago. Joe B. Marshall sits at the negotiations table with Viola Robinson, an elder from Acadia First Nation, and the Mi'kmaq negotiators. Wabanaki: People of the Dawn Part Two follows on Part One, which deals with the structure of the Wabanaki Confederacy and the lives of its member tribes as detailed in a treasure trove of artifacts found in the Mersey River in southwestern Nova Scotia in 2004.


Special Features *Wabanaki: People of the Dawn Part Two* The Mi'kmaq are an integral part of life in Nova Scotia, however, their contributions in education, culture and business are not well known among the general population. In order to familiarize all Nova Scotians with the dedicated work the Mi'kmaq are doing today, and the systemic discrimination they have endured over the years, the Office of Aboriginal Affairs, in conjunction with Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, produced Wabanaki: People of the Dawn Part Two. This film profiles the Mi'kmaq as they are today: a vigorous community meeting the challenges of the 21st century, but struggling to retain the culture, history and language of their ancestors. It is a composite portrait of people trying to restore family lives after the trauma of residential schools; gaining a foothold in the business life of Nova Scotia in the post-Marshall era; reflecting on the importance of ancient spirituality and celebrating the life of an individual who has contributed to the education of both cultures. Joe B. Marshall, executive director of the Union of Nova Scotia Indians, recalls the difficulties his people endured in the 20th century and outlines their hopes for the future. A lawyer and respected elder, he persevered to get an education and has provided the leadership integral to the Mi'kmaq community today. In 2002, the Mi'kmaq, Nova Scotia and Canada signed the Umbrella Agreement, marking the start of discussions to resolve issues on Aboriginal and treaty rights. It is the first time the Crown and the Mi'kmaq have come together in Nova Scotia to seek agreement on issues of such fundamental importance since the treaties were signed more than 200 years ago. Joe B. Marshall sits at the negotiations table with Viola Robinson, an elder from Acadia First Nation, and the Mi'kmaq negotiators. Wabanaki: People of the Dawn Part Two follows on Part One, which deals with the structure of the Wabanaki Confederacy and the lives of its member tribes as detailed in a treasure trove of artifacts found in the Mersey River in southwestern Nova Scotia in 2004. Irondale Ensemble Project Can theatre inspire change in our society and our schools? The members of the Irondale Ensemble Project believe it can. The Ensemble creates plays that combine all aspects of theatrical performance - dance, music, physical theatre and comedy. Irondale also conducts workshops where members teach people how to use theatre games as learning tools to build self-esteem, creativity and communication skills. All of this work is connected to a desire to create, to communicate, to play, and to work toward greater social justice. It may surprise you to know that many of the Ensemble’s plays are unscripted. The creation starts with an idea that is extensively developed through collaboration and improvisation. This spirit of spontaneity also influences the Ensemble’s performances, resulting in an electrifying and engaging show. Since forming in Halifax in 1990, the Irondale Ensemble Project has developed new theatre works for the general public It has created and performed for schools and groups across Nova Scotia, including the Council of Canadians, the Canadian Labour Congress and the College of Family Physicians. Its latest work, Hole in the Bucket, shows some of the many and varied youth perspectives on community, people’s needs and development. The content was developed with input from young people from across the province, and premieres at the Celebrating Communities conference.