Nova Scotia elder Todd Labrador, a master canoe and wigwam builder, will work with Island Mi’kmaq elders and community members to construct the wigwam this week at Port-la-Joye-Fort Amherst National Historic Site.
Parks Canada and the Mi’kmaq Confederacy of P.E.I. are partnering to bring a rotating schedule of activities throughout the summer, including presentations and hands-on activities such as the ancient Mi’kmaq game of waltes, Mi’kmaq songs and language and traditional medicines.
Activities take place daily until Aug. 31.
“We’re proud to share Mi’kmaq history and culture for visitors to Parks Canada sites like Port-la-Joye-Fort Amherst,’’ says Abegweit First Nation Chief Brian Francis.
“This project is a good way to share the knowledge of our elders and to foster Mi’kmaq traditional skills and arts.’’
Karen Jans, P.E.I. field unit superintendent for Parks Canada, says Parks Canada recognizes the invaluable contributions of the Mi’kmaq Confederacy of P.E.I. in enhancing visitor experience at Parks Canada sites and sharing stories and cultural traditions.
“The wigwam project and summer programming present an incredible opportunity for visitors to better understand the culture and history of the Mi’kmaq of P.E.I. through authentic experiences,’’ says Jans.
