The Mi’kmaq flag flew high over Lunenburg yesterday.
Dignitaries from First Nations and all levels of government were joined by students from Bluenose Academy for the flag raising.
Melissa Labrador offers a prayer to begin flag raising ceremony @TownLunenburgNS pic.twitter.com/BKKt2jixdG
— Ed Halverson (@edwardhalverson) October 22, 2018
Acadia First Nation Chief Deborah Robinson thinks this may be the first time any municipality has officially flown the Mi’kmaq colours.
Robinson says it’s an example of how relations between governments and first nations are slowly improving.
And she would like to see that continue.
“Projects and ideas come to fruition that will not only benefit the Mi’kmaq, but will also educate and benefit all citizens, Mi’kmaq and non-Mi’kmaq. Today is a good example of that.”
Robinson was pleased to see the students involved and hopes to see them carry this lesson in cooperation forward.
MI’KMAQ FLAG RAISING CEREMONY
The Town of Lunenburg raised the Mi’kmaq Grand Council Flag this morning in recognition of Mi’kmaq History Month and as a show of respect for the original people of this area. https://t.co/PxNua7Zbiq @nsaboraffairs #acadiafirstnation pic.twitter.com/GnR2iZklh8— Town of Lunenburg, NS (@TownLunenburgNS) October 22, 2018
Lunenburg Mayor Rachel Bailey says the town was approached about raising the flag during Mi’kmaq history month last October.
Bailey says after reaching out to First Nations members, the town decided to go ahead with the flag-raising this year.
“I don’t see any reason why wouldn’t continue to raise the flag, at least for the month of October, if not on a more regular, permanent basis.”
Bailey says flags are important symbols and she thinks it’s important people understand the indigenous part of our history.
Melissa Labrador sings as Mi’kmaq flag flies over @TownLunenburgNS for the first time pic.twitter.com/2HfLIszvfg
— Ed Halverson (@edwardhalverson) October 22, 2018
Reported by: Ed Halverson
Twitter: @edwardhalverson
E-mail: halverson.ed@radioabl.ca
