Reporting in Mi'kma'ki (2026)
Reporting in Mi’kma’ki is a Mi’kmaw-led experiential journalism course
Eskissoqnik: In relation with land and language
Mi’kmaw concepts that guide conservation work are something Earth Keepers and Land Guardians do, rather than define.
Etuaptmumk, or Two-Eyed Seeing, and Netukulimk, the practice of sustainability, are central to the work of two Mi’kmaw environmental organizations in Eskissoqnik, Unama’ki, also known as Eskasoni First Nation in Cape Breton, N.S.
Earth Keepers work for the Unama’ki Institute of Natural Resources (UINR) and Land Guardians are employed by Eskasoni Fish and Wildlife Commission (EFWC). The job descriptions are wide-ranging, from community outreach and education to field work and data collection, with key roles in the management of Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCAs).
Common themes emerge through this series of stories. Working in relation with lands and waters is key to language, culture, identity and community.
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Special Thanks, Wela’lioq!
On behalf of the Reporting in Mi’kma’ki class, wela’liek!
A huge thank you to the community of Eskissoqnik, the Eskasoni First Nation. Our class also visited Millbrook and Sipekne’katik. Everywhere we went, so many people welcomed us and gifted us their time and teachings.
A very special thank you to:
George Paul, our community liaison who helped make this course happen!
Blair “Joef” Bernard
Lenita “Nita” Denny
Morgan Denny
Elder Georgina Doucette
Greg Gruben
Ernest Johnson
Miney Johnson
Tom Johnson
Elder Ann Labillios
Nadine Lafort
Roger Lewis
Jordan Marshall
Rachelle McKay
Allison McIsaac
Donald Morrison
Clifford Paul
Starr Paul
Mercedes Peters
De-Anne Sack
John Denny Simon
Tristen Simon
Shelley Stevens
Dr. Ann Sylliboy
Tom Sylliboy
Diamond Wells
Lawrence “L’lun” Wells