No’kmaw Village, governed by the Flat Bay Band Inc., stands as a beacon of Indigenous self-governance and cultural preservation in Canada. Established in 1971 and later adopting its current name in 2012, it represents a significant chapter in the history and ongoing story of the Mi’Kmaq people. As the oldest surviving on the island portion of Newfoundland. Its roots run deep, with a membership comprising individuals of Mi’Kmaw ancestry within four generations, all proven by the 1945 Census. This community, while centered in the village of Flat Bay, spans across the province and nation, reflecting a broad and inclusive approach to Indigenous identity and belonging.
Over the past five decades, No’kmaw Village has been at the forefront of governing community affairs, Mi’Kmaq rights, and providing a wide array of services and programs that have significantly contributed to employment, education, and infrastructure within and beyond its immediate community. Its annual powwow, the only one held on the west coast of Newfoundland and Labrador (NL), is a testament to its cultural vibrancy and appeal, attracting upwards of10,000 visitors from around the world and marking it as one of the largest gatherings of its kind in Canada.
The village’s approach to governance is particularly noteworthy. Eschewing colonial-style government systems, No’kmaw Village has maintained a form of self-governance that is deeply rooted in Mi’Kmaq traditions and values. This system, free from governmental or municipal financial support, emphasizes policies and decisions that emerge from the community, for the community, through the band council. This model of governance not only preserves the integrity and autonomy of the Mi’Kmaq way of life but also serves as a model for Indigenous self-determination and governance.
No’kmaw Village’s contributions extend beyond its borders through its role as a mentor and partner to other bands, organizations, and Indigenous peoples across NL and Canada. As the lead partner in the Newfoundland Alliance of Rural Mi’Kmaw Nations (NARMN), it plays a crucial role in supporting rural Mi’Kmaw Chiefs and bands, further amplifying its impact on Indigenous communities across the island.
The Flat Bay Band Inc.’s mandate to protect the First Nation rights of its members underscores a commitment to advocacy, representation, and the preservation of Mi’Kmaq heritage. Recognizing the ancestral links and the vital role of its community within the broader Mi’Kmaq Nations of Canada, No’kmaw Village pledges to promote equality, fairness, and solidarity among Indigenous nations.
No’kmaw Village’s story is one of resilience, cultural pride, and unwavering commitment to the principles of self-governance and community empowerment. It stands as a testament to the strength and vibrancy of the Mi’Kmaq people, their traditions, and their enduring legacy.
