New strategy aimed at preserving, protecting Mi’kmaq language in Nova Scotia

A new strategy between the Nova Scotia government and Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey will help preserve, promote and protect the Mi’kmaq language for future generations.

The Mi’kmaw Language ReVITALization Strategy is a collaborative plan to support the growth and sustainability of the language throughout Nova Scotia.

“This strategy is about more than just preserving a language – it’s about strengthening Mi’kmaw identity, culture and ways of knowing,” said Leah Martin, minister responsible for L’nu Affairs.

“Language is the lifeblood of the Mi’kmaw people, and our government is proud to support this important work.”

The province says it will spend $1.3 million annually to help advance Mi’kmaq language revitalization initiatives, such as:

• strengthening capacity in Mi’kmaq communities
• expanding language learning programs
• developing new resources
• promoting the use of Mi’kmaq in communities, workplaces and schools

“Our language is at the heart of who we are as Mi’kmaq. The release of this strategy marks an important milestone in the shared journey towards reconciliation between the Province of Nova Scotia and the Mi’kmaw Nation,” said Chief Leroy Denny, chair of Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey.

The province says children and youth are the key focus of the new strategy as they play a crucial role in rebuilding the number of Mi’kmaq language speakers in Nova Scotia.

“Many actions will empower them to learn, speak and engage with the Mi’kmaw language and provide them with consistent access to learning opportunities,” reads a provincial news release.

Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey is the Mi’kmaq education authority in Nova Scotia, which as been working on the development of Mi’kmaq language teachers, language courses, immersion opportunities, and other language revitalization resources for many years.

For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page