Resources

Speakers Directory

Dorene Bernard

Dorene is an elder from Indian Brook First Nation who has worked for a long time with residential school survivors and contributed to the documentary "Cloaked in Savagery." She has organized the Grassroots Grandmother Circle; an effort to restore the vital presence and role of Mi'kmaq elders all over the Mi'kmaq nation. She now travels to communities, organizations, and schools sharing history and leading workshops.

  • Grassroots Grandmothers Circles
  • Sacred Medicine Workshop
  • Medicine Bag workshop
  • Traditional Medicines Workshop
  • Drum Making Workshops
  • Star Quilt Workshops
  • 7 Sacred teachings
  • Legacy of Indian Residential Schools
  • Historic Trauma and Residential Schools
  • Traditional Shawl Making workshops
  • Talking Circles
  • Sharing Circles
  • Rattle Making Workshop
  • Dream Catchers Workshop
  • Medicine Wheel Workshop

To book Dorene, e-mail: flagroot@hotmail.com

A Tribe Called Mi'kmaq

This is a brand new drum group based in We'kopekwitk (Millbrook), Nova Scotia, 'A Tribe Called Mi'kmaq' has been singing together since February, 2009 but their members are well known on the powwow trail having performed with other drum groups over the past 15 years. They have competed across Canada in singing competitions and have earned a 5th place finish in both the Odawa Competition Powwow in Ottawa and the Six Nations Champion of Champion's Gathering near Brantford, Ontario.

During the winter they book performances for schools and events.

Price is negotiable.

To book A Tribe Called Mi'kmaq, contact Michael Stephens by e-mail: smaknis@gmail.com.

Gordon Pictou

Gordon was a history teacher for seven years with the Halifax Regional School Board before joining the Glooscap Heritage Centre team in May 2009 as Interpreter and Program Director. Gordon has developed 3 presentations for schools all one hour in length.

Elementary Presentation - Gordon tells a Kluskap legend (the story of the lost boy) and discusses the details by asking and answering questions. He then gives the teaching of the feather (why eagles are special, red path, and how to earn a feather). In closing relates the idea that there are four parts to a person; the mental, physical, spiritual and emotional selves and all must be in balance to be healthy and happy.

The Juniour High presentation consists of a Kluskap legend (Beaver and Porcupine), different approches to wellness - sweat lodge, talking circles, being aware of your emotions and how they influence others, some history about residential schools and the Indian Act, and closes with an emphasis on how Mi'kmaq communities are starting on their own path towards self-government and sustainability.

The High School presentation begins with a Kluskap legend (Creation Story)and the unpacking of some of the complexities of oral tradition. The importance of culture in our lives and being proud of who you are and your cultural legacy. How life has changed for Mi'kmaq people from pre-contact life - Indian Act - Residential Schools - Charter of Rights and Freedoms - and the path to self-government. It closes with a thought about the power of in understanding yourself and living with purpose and intention.

Price is $100 plus $0.50/km

To book Gordon, telephone 902.843.3493 or e-mail: gordon@glooscapheritagecentre.com