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Mi'kmaq: First Nations people

Updated Friday, 8 March 2024

These films give insight into Mi'kmaq life and examine the renewal of traditional customs by interviewing key members of the community who discuss the benefits and difficulties in attempting to hold on to their ancestry. 

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Can heritage continue to inform the way we live today? Is it possible to balance traditional ideas with a modern life? The Mi'kmaq people have had roots in Conne River Newfoundland in Canada for generations, but it was only officially designated as a reserve in 1987. Many of its indigenous inhabitants still feel a connection with the past and in recent times there has been a revival of interest in Mi'kmaq culture. These films give insight into Mi'kmaq life and customs. This material forms part of the Open University course A332 Why is religion controversial?

The MikMaq people have lived in Newfoundland for generations



Their diet would often depend on the season



  25 years ago Conne River secured protected status when it became a reserve



Powwows give indigenous people to come together and celebrate their own culture



Many members of the Mi'kmaq were assimilated into the Catholic Church



The resurfacing of traditional Mi'kmaq values can sometimes present difficulties



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