Mi’kmaq Men and Two-Spirit individuals have long been pillars of strength in our communities – offering protection, guidance, and wisdom. We must recognize and support their efforts that help ensure our traditions and values continue to thrive.
Our teachings tell us that respect is the foundation of a strong and healthy community. The Moose Hide Campaign reminds us of our shared responsibility to stand against violence and build a world where everyone feels safe, seen, and supported. Ending violence begins with each of us, through education, awareness, and commitment to change.
A healthy community is one that embraces every person, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to inclusivity and acceptance, ensuring that our LGBTQ2S+ family members feel supported and celebrated. Leadership means listening, learning, and standing against discrimination, so that our spaces remain welcoming and safe for all.
The Honourable Justice Murray Sinclair, Chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, emphasized the importance of education in reconciliation, stating, “Education got us into this mess and education will get us out of it.”
Last week, I had the honor to attend the Patty Boy’s Project event in Gander, hosted by Smallwood Academy, led by their teacher Joanne Broders. It was truly inspiring to see students engage in studies on Truth and Reconciliation, while paying tribute to the life of Patrick Gehue, known to those who loved him as Patty Boy. Their commitment to understanding history and honoring his legacy was moving, and the support from Patrick’s family, friends, and our Mi’kmaq community was a testament to the power of collective learning and healing. This project is a perfect example of how we can incorporate Indigenous education in a meaningful way. I commend Ms. Boders and her students for their work and hope to see this continued throughout our province and beyond.
With gratitude, I acknowledge Chief Misel Joe, Noel Joe, the Mi’kmaw Cultural Foundation, and Minister Scott Reid for their words and presence at the event. I would also like to give a special congratulations to all the students that convocated this week, including our former council member, Ivan J White, who received his Masters in Applied Literary Arts from Memorial University.
We must show gratitude to all men and Two-Spirit folks in our community that do their part, because everyone of us plays a role in empowering our youth and creating a better tomorrow.
Relevant Links:
Moose Hide Campaign: https://moosehidecampaign.ca/
Gov of Canada Supports for 2SLGBTQI+ community: https://www.canada.ca/en/women-gender-equality/free-to-be-me.html
2SLGBTQIA+ community groups across Newfoundland and Labrador: https://guides.nlpl.ca/PrideReading/Community
National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation: https://nctr.ca/
