Karla MacFarlane, the Minister of L’nu Affairs, says Mi’kmaq is our province’s first language.
MacFarlane announced Friday legislation coming next spring which will help preserve, revitalize, and promote the language.
“The Mi’kmaw language reflects the culture of the First Peoples of this province,” she said. “Mi’kmaw language revitalization is critical to understanding and preserving Mi’kmaw culture and supports ongoing reconciliation.”
MacFarlane said the Mi’kmaw language is at risk, with the number of speakers in rapid decline.
She said government will work with Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey, the Mi’kmaq education association, and other Mi’kmaq organizations and communities.
MacFarlane said the new policy will ensure hearing, seeing, and speaking Mi’kmaq becomes a normal part of life in our province.
