Thursday, July 4, 2024 Today, the Mi’kmawey Kapmnt Ta’n Nikana’tu’tij Epekwitnewaq Mi’kmaw-Saqmaq — representing the Mi’kmaw Nation Government of Prince Edward Island through Chiefs Darlene Bernard of Lennox Island First Nation and Junior Gould of Abegweit First Nation, along with the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, announced an agreement. This agreement marks the establishment of a new national park reserve along the northwestern shores of Epekwitk (Prince Edward Island). The area, known as Pituamkek (bee-DOO-um-gek), consists of a chain of barrier islands in northwestern P.
E.I. and is home to one of eastern Canada’s most ecologically significant coastal dune ecosystems.
It holds profound cultural and historical importance for the Epekwitnewaq Mi’kmaq and all residents of P.E.I.
Beyond its ecological and cultural significance, the archipelago plays a crucial role in mitigating the impacts of severe weather events on coastal communities, as demonstrated during Hurricane Fiona. This agreement underscores the shared commitment of the Government of Canada and the Mi’kmaq Epekwitnewaq Kapmntemuow to ensure long-term protection for this remarkable area. “Pituamkek,” meaning “At the Long Sand Dune,” abounds with ancient and continuing Mi’kmaw land-use traditions, important cultural and archaeological sites, rare ecosystems, and distinctive geological formations.
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