Last week, Prime Minister Mark Carney’s major foreign‑policy speech at the World Economic Forum stated, “When we only negotiate bilaterally with a hegemon, we negotiate from weakness… This is not sovereignty. It’s the performance of sovereignty while accepting subordination.”

While I agree with the intent behind Prime Minister Carney’s message, I can’t help but ponder how it directly speaks to the challenges we continue to face as Mi’kmaq people, not just in economics, but nearly in every aspect of our lives. Our Nation, like so many others, is far too familiar with these uneven power dynamics. Whether we are engaging with federal or provincial governments or navigating our relationship with law enforcement agencies such as the RCMP, the scales are rarely tipped in our favour.

In the wake of the recent shootings in Mi’kma’ki, tragedy once again serves as a harsh reminder that our safety, our rights, and our sovereignty cannot depend on systems that have historically failed to protect us. They remind us why we must stand together and speak collectively.

One voice can be dismissed but many voices joined in purpose cannot be ignored. When we are united, we move with a power far greater than challenges we face. As we continue to navigate these relationships, let us all support measures to create systemic change that will no longer tolerate policies that ignore our inherent rights and harm our people.

CBC Article: Atlantic chiefs call for ‘meaningful action’ after 2 First Nations men killed by RCMP | CBC News

It is with a heavy heart that I share the sad news that our colleague and friend, Howard Thistle, passed away last week after a hard‑fought health battle. This loss is felt across our Nation and by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Howard was with us for many years, working in our Health and Wellness department, and in that time, he touched countless lives.

For those that knew Howard, knew he was a true champion for our people. He spoke up consistently and courageously for the betterment of Indigenous healthcare, always pushing for systems and services that honoured our voices and our needs. Among our staff, he was admired and appreciated, not only for his knowledge and dedication, but for his kindness, his great sense of humour and his ability to connect with people in a way that made him one of our most contacted staff members. He was the person who would lend a hand and who always went above and beyond to ensure that others were taken care of.

We extend our sincere condolences to Howard’s family, friends, and all who are grieving his loss. As we move forward, our team is committed to honouring him each day through the work we do. We will continue to model the values he embodied: compassion, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to our people. May his spirit guide us as we continue the important work he cared so deeply about.