Assembly of N.S. Mi’kmaw Chiefs buys land put up for sale near sacred petroglyphs

The Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs has purchased several privately owned parcels of land near the Bedford Barrens petroglyphs to protect the site from future development and to ensure long term Mi’kmaw care and access. The petroglyphs, which are carved into stone and hold deep spiritual and cultural meaning, sit within an area that had been vulnerable to residential development. For Mi’kmaw people, this land has always been a place of responsibility, not ownership.

Tim Bernard, executive director of Mi’kmawey Debert, emphasized that protection has always been the goal. “For us, it’s been about the protection of the site. We have been caring for this land for over 13,000 years and will continue to do that,” he said. The purchase reflects years of advocacy and collaboration, led by the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs, to safeguard a place that carries teachings, memory, and responsibility for generations to come. Read the full CBC article.