November 3, 2025
Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey recently hosted an Elders Gathering that welcomed Elders from across Nova Scotia for several days of connection, learning, and celebration. The event created a warm and welcoming space where Elders could come together to share stories, strengthen relationships, and enjoy time in each other’s company.
Throughout the gathering, participants reflected on some of the most meaningful themes in Mi’kmaw history and community life. Conversations focused on centralization and its lasting impacts, the importance of family stories, the strength of the Mi’kmaw language, and the resiliency that continues to guide communities forward. Elders shared personal memories, teachings, and insights, reminding everyone of the knowledge that lives within these stories.
In the evenings, the hall was filled with laughter and friendly competition as Elders enjoyed bingo, card games, and waltes. Music filled both nights giving everyone a chance to relax, visit, and have fun.
The gathering was a beautiful reminder of the power of bringing Elders together, not only to honour their knowledge and experiences, but also to celebrate community, humour, and the connections that strengthen Mi’kma’ki. Everyone left with full hearts, new memories, and a renewed sense of togetherness.
Some comments that we heard from community members were:
“ I needed that, I never felt so good, they treated us like princesses, royalty.”
“I met family, got closer to our own Paqtnkek people”
“I’m going to start visiting other reserves”
"I live off rez and I miss the opportunity to connect with a lot of my people. I was grateful to meet so many new faces ! It was nice connecting with others"
"I enjoyed the workshops as I loved hearing the laughter and seeing the smiles on all the attendees. There is nothing like the laughter of elders to make your day"
We can't wait to host this again!
