What defines someone’s national identity? Is it a drop of blood from a distant relative? Is it living in a community? Is it being accepted by that community as a member? Do we approach that question differently if we have Italian ancestry versus Indigenous ancestry?

Justin continues his conversations with Qalipu leaders, community members, and distant relatives in his search to understand what it means to be Mi’kmaq, whether it’s right to claim a Mi’kmaq identity, and what he should tell his kids about who they really are.

Host: Justin Brake

Credits: Justin Brake (Writer & Reporter), Tristan Capacchione (Audio Editor and Technical Producer), Bruce Thorson (Senior Producer), Annette Ejiofor (Managing Editor), Karyn Pugliese (Editor-in-Chief)

Special Thanks: Kelly Russell and Pigeon Inlet Productions for the use of Emile Benoit’s music, Diane's Happiness, David's Reel

Further reading:

• Chief to explore separation from controversial Mi’kmaq band — APTN News
• Qalipu Mi'kmaq First Nation votes to allow some RCMP officers, military to reapply for membership — CBC News

Additional music by Audio Network

Sponsors: The Toronto Symphony Orchestra, The University of King's College, Oxio

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