Charlottetown, PE – Today is Treaty Day on PEI. It is 295 years since the first Peace and Friendship Treaty was signed between the Mi’kmaq and British Settlers. There were a series of Treaties signed that guaranteed Mi’kmaq the right to hunt, fish, gather and earn a reasonable living. These Treaties are also protected and affirmed by the Canadian Constitution.

The Official Opposition encourages Islanders to engage in the work of reconciliation and learn about the Peace and Friendship Treaties.

“We often talk about reconciliation and what it looks like, but little has been done to advance it,” said Peter Bevan-Baker, Leader of the Official Opposition. “To begin the important journey of reconciliation together, we must start from a place of understanding. I encourage all Islanders to learn more about the Treaties we have with the Mi’kmaq and to engage in meaningful and intentional ways.”

An initiative of the Mi’kmaq, L’nuey is focused on protecting, preserving and implementing the constitutionally entrenched rights of the Mi’kmaq of Prince Edward Island, Epekwitk.

“L’nuey is a rich resource for learning about the history and importance of these Treaties and working with the Mi’kmaq as we walk the road of reconciliation,” said Bevan-Baker. “We know that this is only the beginning, but I believe this is a good place for all Islanders to continue this necessary work.”

For more information about Treaty Day and L’nuey, please visit https://lnuey.ca/

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For media inquiries, please contact:

Jonathan Hamel
Director of Communications
Office of the Official Opposition
Tel: (902) 213-0718
Email: jdhamel@assembly.pe.ca