New Strategy to Support Mi’kmaw Language Revitalization

March 6, 2025

A new strategy announced today, March 6, will guide efforts to preserve, promote and protect the Mi’kmaw language for future generations.

The Province and Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey jointly launched the Mi’kmaw Language ReVITALization Strategy, a collaborative plan to support the growth and sustainability of the language throughout Nova Scotia.

“This strategy is about more than just preserving a language – it’s about strengthening Mi’kmaw identity, culture and ways of knowing,” said Leah Martin, Minister responsible for L’nu Affairs. “Language is the lifeblood of the Mi’kmaw people, and our government is proud to support this important work.”

As part of this commitment, the Province will provide $1.3 million in annual funding to advance Mi’kmaw language revitalization initiatives. This investment will strengthen capacity in Mi’kmaw communities, help expand language learning programs, develop new resources and promote the use of Mi’kmaw in communities, workplaces and schools.

Children and youth are a key focus of the strategy, as they play a crucial role in rebuilding the number of Mi’kmaw language speakers in Nova Scotia. Many actions will empower them to learn, speak and engage with the Mi’kmaw language and provide them with consistent access to learning opportunities.

The Mi’kmaw Language ReVITALization Strategy is a direct outcome of the Mi’kmaw Language Act, which was proclaimed by the Province and affirmed by the M’kmaq in 2022.

Quotes:

“Our language is at the heart of who we are as Mi’kmaq. The release of this strategy marks an important milestone in the shared journey towards reconciliation between the Province of Nova Scotia and the Mi’kmaw Nation.”
— Chief Leroy Denny, Chair, Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey

Quick Facts:

• as the Mi’kmaw education authority in Nova Scotia, Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey has been working on the development of Mi’kmaw language teachers, language courses, immersion opportunities and other language revitalization resources for many years

Additional Resources:

The Mi’kmaw Language ReVITALization Strategy is available at: https://www.kinu.ca/resources

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