Indigenous People’s Day provides historical learning in Unama’ki

By Rosemary Godin, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Cape Breton Post It all began on Cape Breton with a gift of tobacco and a prayer on Saturday as the sun was coming up over the horizon and its light was striking the majestic Louisbourg lighthouse. About three dozen people stood in a circle in strong winds and overcast skies while Eskasoni elder and knowledge-keeper Lottie Johnson prayed and the “Mi’kmaq Honour Song” was drummed to commemorate National Indigenous People’s Day held annually on June 21. Saturday was just one day in a month when the federal government invites Canadians to reflect on what unites us all, such as: equity, respect for human rights, diversity, and a shared hope for a more inclusive future. Johnson, a residential school survivor and acclaimed Mi’kmaw…

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