The relationship between Mi’kmaq, on whose lands now resides the whale sanctuary, and whales, is embedded in their culture and mythology, and both of their stories are pervaded by themes of loss and displacement. The Mi’kmaq traveled with and on the ocean until forced relocation interrupted their movement. The kidnapping of whales disconnected them from the vast ocean where both their identity and autonomy are rooted. Mi’kmaq artists have explored this parallel journey in the exhibit The Path We Share. Alan Syliboy, one of the artists with this project, relates indigeneity to whales, as loss of autonomy, erasure, and isolation are resonant in both of their histories.
Indigeneity being purposefully erased from the land and sea is resulting in declining numbers of both the Mi’kmaq and the whales.
The Whale Sanctuary Project has the potential to restore indigeneity to the landscape. Chief Bob Chamberlin of the Kwikwasut’inuxw Haxwa’mis First Nation introduced this theme of reconciliation to the project. “It’s time,” he said, “to bring about reconciliation with our fellow animals and the natural world.”
While feelings of exploitation have long saturated the discussion surrounding whales and Mi’kmaq and First Nations, the Whale Sanctuary Project intends to dignify these conversations with sentiments of healing and restoration.
