As Chief of Qalipu First Nation, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated in the recent federal election. This democratic process is vital to our community, and it reaffirms our collective commitment to preserving our cultural identity.

I commend each candidate who worked tirelessly throughout their campaigns. Putting oneself forward in such a public way is no small feat, especially in the face of criticism that can often be harsh and impersonal online. It takes resilience, passion, and unwavering dedication to navigate these challenges and stay the course.

During the election, a quote shared by a friend deeply resonated with me, “May you never know the fear of having your human rights challenged every time there is an election, and may you never know the pain of watching loved ones vote against your right to exist fully, equally, and authentically.” I hope this sentiment inspires reflection in all who read it.

Every day, we have the opportunity to make choices that shape a brighter future. Kindness and respect require little effort, yet their impact is profound. Let us strive to set an example of love and humility for the generations to come.

As we move forward, we remain connected to our traditional government, the Mi’kmaq Grand Council. Together, we will continue to strengthen relationships across what is now known as Canada.

Finally, I would like to extend a warm welcome to our newest council member, Holly Muise. Holly was successful in our St. George’s by-election and will be joined by members of council and her loved ones to be officially sworn in on Sunday. We are thrilled to have her join us this term and look forward to her representing the voices of our members in the St. George’s region.

At the heart of every strong nation are the people who give their time, energy, and skills to build something better. Volunteers are the backbone of our communities. By working together, we make a positive impact and shape a better future for all of us.

The people that step up and coordinate various opportunities for us all to engage in cultural activities such as Mawi’omis, crafts, drumming, and so much more, allow us the ability to connect to one another and to share knowledge so it can be carried on for generations to come.

Volunteers give their time to support what matters most, family, culture, and community. Their efforts make a real difference in the lives of those around us and, just as importantly, show our youth the value of giving back. Through volunteering, we build friendships, share a sense of purpose, and experience the pride that comes from helping others. Let’s never forget, every effort, big or small matters.

I encourage everyone to consider how they can get involved and give back to the community. Together, we can build a brighter future for our Nation, one step at a time, walking the path of unity and strength.

I want to acknowledge the concern expressed by our community members regarding the ongoing situation with the MSC Baltic III, which ran aground in Cedar Cove on February 15. It has now been two months, and the ship remains in place, containing approximately 1,600 metric tons of heavy fuel and marine gas. Understandably, anxiety is growing as time passes with no visible action or meaningful communication.

This situation is a risk to our waters, our fisheries, and our way of life. Hundreds of people in this region depend on a healthy marine environment, not only for their livelihoods, but for their connection to culture, identity, and home. An oil or fuel spill in this area would be catastrophic, not only for the environment, but for the economy and wellbeing of countless families.

Qalipu First Nation is actively engaged in this matter through our Department of Environment and Natural Resources, working with the Canadian Coast Guard. We are seeking updates and pressing for answers. We have also heard that a road was to be constructed to access the site and begin fuel removal, but as of today, no such action has taken place. That delay is deeply concerning.

To our provincial and federal partners, we are calling on you to act immediately. Our communities are watching. Our fish harvesters are waiting. And our Nation expects transparency, accountability, and an urgent response. With today’s technology and expertise, there is no reason for this delay to continue, only a lack of will.

We are prepared to work with all levels of government and all stakeholders. But we will also raise our voices louder if that’s what it takes to protect our waters and our people.

To the concerned members of our community, please know this: Qalipu First Nation will not stand by silently. We are your voice, and we will continue to push for swift action and real results.

April 7th was observed as World Health Day. The health of our Nation is at the heart of every decision we make. When it comes to health, one of our most important programs is our Non-Insured Health Benefits. This service along with our mental health and cultural programming allow us to foster a better quality of life for our communities.

When our council discusses the many ways we can build healthier communities, we know we must do this through medical assistance and wellness programs, but we understand that this also happens through economic opportunities, meaningful partnerships, and a shared vision for the future.

This week, I had the honour of joining a Kitchen Table Chat at the East Coast Business Forum hosted by the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business (CCIB). Along with our friends and partners from Horizon Maritime, Miawpukek Horizon and Membertou First Nation, we shared our experience regarding the recent acquisition of New Dock as it is celebrated as major step forward in Indigenous-led economic development in Atlantic Canada.

For Qalipu First Nation, this conversation goes beyond business. It’s about economic sovereignty, partnerships rooted in respect, and creating opportunities for our people, opportunities that lead to stronger families, increased access to resources, and long-term wellness. When our communities thrive economically, we see the ripple effects in better housing, better food security, more jobs, and a greater sense of purpose among our youth, inspiring them to be leaders of tomorrow.

This week, we also heard from the province with the delivery of this year’s budget. As I listened, I thought of our own budget and how much we and the other Indigenous governments contribute to the overall economic health of our society. We are hopeful that our next elected leaders, both provincial and federal see the value of partnerships with us, because together we can reduce deficits and increase capacity. This is Truth and Reconciliation in action.

World Health Day reminds us that health isn’t just something we find in clinics, it’s something we grow when we invest in ourselves and protect the land that sustains us.

We are grateful to all who are part of this important journey. Let’s keep the conversation going, around boardroom tables, kitchen tables, and in every space where we dream big for our communities.

Relevant Links: 

Gov of NL Provincial Budget 2025: https://www.gov.nl.ca/budget/2025/

Canadian Council for Indigenous Business: https://www.ccab.com/

New Dock: https://newdock.nf.ca/

World Health Day: https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-health-day

Non-Insured Health Benefits: https://qalipu.ca/health/non-insured-health-benefits/

Experience Qalipu: https://experienceqalipu.ca/

Qalipu Business Network: http://www.qbn.qalipu.ca/

Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada: https://indigenoustourism.ca/

Newfoundland Indigenous Tourism Association: https://nlita.ca/