News Room
June, 2008
Language, Culture and Mi’kmaq Values Central to Governance in Eskasoni
ATLANTIC REGION - Eskasoni citizens feel strongly about incorporating Mi’kmaq values and principles into the First Nation’s model of governance. That was a key finding in a comprehensive survey of community members to obtain a better understanding of their opinions and interests in pursuing a community-run self-governance model.
Eskasoni First Nation is located on Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia.
NCFNG and St. Mary’s University developed the survey for the Eskasoni First Nation. NCFNG and St. Mary’s University trained a four-person Eskasoni survey team that polled citizens for an eight week period starting in February, 2008.
Citizens identifi ed that Eskasoni’s top fi ve strengths are in the areas of language, culture, population, unity and the people. Feedback also indicated that members would like to see an Eskasoni governance model that can adequately respond to critical wellness issues, including housing, economic development, employment and drug abuse. Citizens indicated a desire to create a more sustainable, self-sufficient community.
Data confirmed that members feel strongly about creating an administration system that refl ects Mi’kmaq values and principles. The community also strongly supports the implementation of polices which refl ect cultural traditions. There was a high level of support for the concept of developing a custom election code that some members felt could include minimum criteria for Chief & Council positions. Community members also believed that keeping the Mi’kmaw language alive is critical to the future of the community.
Data indicated that members are currently not satisfi ed with the current governing systems and feel there is a lack of communication between Chief & Council and community members. In total, 289 surveys were conducted, exceeding the targeted population of 201. Of the people polled, 51.5% were female, 48.5% male, 48% were between the ages of 18-35, 38% between the ages of 36-55 and 14% were over 55.
The Eskasoni Governance Technical Team continues to consult community members on governance issues and expects a final governance capacity assessment report to be released to all community members in the summer of 2008.
