Islanders celebrate Treaty Day 

Celebrating Treaty Day is another step forward to advancing reconciliation with First Nations. Recognizing this special day affirms government’s commitment to working closely with and for the wellbeing of the PEI Mi’kmaq.

Treaty Day is a celebration of the historical relationships between Indigenous peoples and the Government of Canada. It is also a day that gives Canadians and Islanders the opportunity to learn more about the culture, history and heritage of Indigenous peoples.

“The commitment to officially recognize Mi’kmaq Treaty Day in Prince Edward Island is a significant gesture and signals the commitment of Premier King and this government to a strong relationship with the PEI Mi’kmaq,” said Darlene Bernard, chief of Lennox Island First Nation on PEI. “Treaty Day serves as an important symbolic event to both strengthen the relationship between the Mi’kmaq of PEI and the Crown and to educate the public about the Mi’kmaq Treaties, as well as Mi’kmaq History and Culture – all important steps on the path to reconciliation.”

“We are proud that the PEI government has now joined Nova Scotia in the official recognition of Treaty Day and we are looking forward to working in collaboration to celebrate this day every year and to use this event to promote awareness with all Islanders of Mi’kmaq history, culture and heritage in PEI,” said Junior Gould, Chief of Abegweit First Nation. “This is an important day for the Mi’kmaq of Epekwitk, and for all Islanders.”

Abegweit and Lennox Island First Nations represent the two bands of Prince Edward Island. Chiefs Bernard and Gould joined Premier Dennis King to raise the Mi’kmaq national flag at the provincial government offices. The flag will also be flown at Government House for the month of October in recognition of Treaty Day.

“The First Nations of Prince Edward Island have made, and continue to make, important contributions to what makes our province an incredible place. Our relationship with the Mi’kmaq is strong and one that is founded on mutual respect. Today is a significant step forward in advancing the important work of reconciliation. Together, we can and will make a real difference in the lives the PEI Mi’kmaq.”

- Dennis King, Premier of Prince Edward Island and Minister responsible for Indigenous relations

Media contact:
Vicki Tse
Executive Council Office
vickitse@gov.pe.ca