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.

This week is also National Tourism Week. Tourism is essential to the strength of our communities, culture and economy. While it brings visitors to our lands, it also provides us with the opportunity to share our unique beauty, traditions, and history with the world. Through Indigenous-guided tours, local events and cultural practices, we can build understanding and respect across diverse peoples. By supporting local businesses, artisans, and Indigenous-owned tourism ventures through Experience Qalipu and the Qalipu Business Network, we strengthen our economy while ensuring future generations benefits from the growth of tourism.

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/

On April 3, 1925, after decades of determined lobbying, advocacy, and public campaigning, women in Newfoundland secured the right to vote and hold public office. This victory not only affirmed the status of women as equal members of society but also challenged traditional gender roles, creating space for future generations to take their rightful place in leadership and governance.

To commemorate this day, I had the honor of attending the celebration at the Confederation Building hosted by the Honourable Pam Parsons and her team from the Office of Women and Gender Equality. It was a powerful reminder of the strength and perseverance of the women who fought tirelessly for this right. Their commitment paved the way for women today, including the many Mi’kmaw women who continue to shape our Nation, carrying forward the spirit of leadership and resilience.

Although I appreciated the opportunity to attend the celebration, it was not lost on me that as a female leader of our Nation, being acknowledged in that space with Provincial leaders was not something that our grandmothers would have imagined possible in their lifetimes. It is important to remember that it wasn’t until 1960 that legislation was passed allowing Indigenous people to vote in federal elections without having to forfeit their status.

During my visit, I spoke with candidates for the upcoming election. I was happy to have the opportunity to advocate for our Nation as they determine their priorities going forward. It is crucial that we take the time to educate ourselves about the candidates. Although the relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous governments in Canada has improved, there is still room for growth.  We must vote for leaders who have a willingness to learn and understand who we are and who can also see the value of the relationship with our Nation.

With elections upon us, these milestones remind us why voting matters. Our right to vote is something others fought for. Every time we cast a ballot; we honor those who fought for this right. Elections are not just about choosing leaders, they are about shaping the policies and decisions that impact our communities, families, and future generations.

I encourage everyone to take part in the upcoming elections. By voting, we ensure that our voices are heard, our concerns are addressed, and a hope for stronger relationships where we are working together to build stronger communities. Participation in elections is one of the most powerful ways we can honor the legacy of those who paved the way for us. It ensures that the work they started continues for generations to come.

March 22^nd was observed as World Water Day, a day to reflect on the sacredness of water, and to raise awareness about issues that impact our waters. As Mi’kmaq people, we have always understood that water is not just a resource, it is a part of all our relations, deserving of our protection and respect.

While we recognize the vital role water plays, we also acknowledge the harsh reality that many First Nations across the country, including many of our own communities, struggle for access to clean drinking water. Boil water advisories remain a common occurrence, and far too many communities continue to live without the basic right of safe, reliable water. This is unacceptable. Access to clean water is a fundamental human right, and we must continue to advocate for long-term solutions to these issues.

Here in Ktaqmkuk, Qalipu First Nation is working diligently to uphold our responsibility as stewards of the land and water. Our Environment and Natural Resources Department plays a crucial role in monitoring and protecting local ecosystems through our Land and Water Monitor programs, as well as monitoring industry development to ensure that our waterways remain healthy for future generations.

Additionally, through MAMKA, a joint marine research initiative between Qalipu First Nation and our sister Nation, Miawpukek First Nation in Conne River, we are strengthening Indigenous-led environmental stewardship. This is done by combining traditional Mi’kmaq knowledge with modern scientific research, we are working to better understand and protect the marine ecosystems that sustain our communities. This partnership is an example of what we can achieve when we come together to care for our shared waters.

On this day, we encourage all our members to reflect on their connection to water, because water gives us life and sustains us. We must continue to advocate for its protection and support ongoing efforts to ensure clean and safe drinking water for all beings. Let us continue to honour our responsibilities as stewards of our water and stand in solidarity with First Nations still fighting for this basic right.

Relevant Links:

MAMKA: https://aarom.ca/aarom-department-profiles/mikmaq-alsumk-mowimsikik-koqoey-association/

AFN National Climate Strategy: https://afn.ca/environment/national-climate-strategy/