Mi'kmaq People
The Míkmaq ( /ˈmɪkˌmæk/; Mi'kmaq: ) are a First Nations people, indigenous to the northeastern region of New England, Canada's Atlantic Provinces, and the Gaspé Peninsula of Quebec. They call this region Mi'kma'kik. The nation has a population of about 40,000 (plus 21,429 in the Qalipu First Nation), of whom nearly 11,000 speak the Míkmaq language. Once written in Míkmaq hieroglyphic writing, it is now written using most letters of the standard Latin alphabet.
The Grand Council (also known as Santé Mawiómi) was the traditional senior level of government for the Mi'kmaq people until the Indian Act was created (1876). After the Indian Act the Grand Council adopted a more spiritual function. The Grand Council was made up of representitives from the seven district councils in Mi'kmai'ki.
On September 26th, 2011 the Government of Canada announced the recognition of Canada's newest Mi'kmaq First Nations Band, the Qalipu First Nations in Newfoundland and Labrador. The new landless band has accepted 20,000 applications to become part of the band. This number is expected to increase to over 65,000 by the end of 2012. Its members are recognized as Status Indians, joining other organized Mi'kmaq bands recognized in the Northeast of Canada.
Read more about Mi'kmaq People: Etymology, History, Míkmaq First Nation Subdivisions, Demographics, Celebrations, Folklore, Notable Míkmaq, Other
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