Investigating the restoration of the Mi'kmaq language and culture on the First Nations reserve of Miawpukek
Date
2000-03
Authors
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Journal ISSN
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Publisher
ORCID
Type
Degree Level
Masters
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the restoration of the Mi'kmaq language
and culture on the First Nations reserve of Miawpukek in the province of Newfoundland.
A group of respondents between the ages of twenty-five and eighty from the Miawpukek
reserve participated in the study, which was conducted by the researcher. The study
consisted of fifty completed questionnaires and ten interviews designed to measure the
value placed on restoring the Mi'kmaq language and culture by members of Miawpukek.
Data from these instruments were then gathered and analyzed.
Analysis of the data indicated that the people of Miawpukek place great value on
restoring the Mi'kmaq language to their culture. It was unanimously agreed that a definite
need exists to restore this vernacular to Miawpukek: however, there was mixed reaction
about whether this can be done. Respondents commented on the lack of community
involvement and the need for a certified, fluent Mi'kmaq language teacher as two of the
major obstacles that still stand in the way. Further, they expressed a personal desire for
the restoration of the Mi'kmaq language and culture to Miawpukek. Although the findings
show a recognized need for Mi'kmaq language and cultural renewal, there does not appear
to be anyone who meets the qualifications necessary and can commit the time and effort
necessary to be successful in such a quest. The people of Miawpukek still have a long way
to go before they will see the Mi'kmaq language and culture being a vibrant part of the
community.
While the results of this study can not be generalized to the Aboriginal population
at large, the conclusion can be drawn that although a definite desire exists to restore the language and culture among the Miawpukek community, still much work needs to be done.
The first step in this process would appear to be obtaining the services of a Mi'kmaq
language teacher and building from there. This study confirmed the researcher's belief that
all is not lost for Miawpukek; now, we need to start moving forward and building on what
we have before what we have disappears.
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Degree
Master of Education (M.Ed.)
Department
Educational Administration
Program
Educational Administration