Land Gifted to Amlamgog First Nation during Mi'gmaq Ceremony
Press Release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 20, 2023
Land gifted to Amlamgog during Mi’gmaq ceremony
AMLAMGOG - On July 19th, 2023, on what would have been Elder Donna Augustine’s son Muin’s birthday, she led an Ancestor Ceremony in front of Amlamgog community members and other Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to honour those who have passed on to the spirit world. Elder Augustine’s teachings spoke of loss, perseverance, and hope. The ceremony allowed those present to reflect not only on the loss of family members but the loss of culture and land.
This ceremony was held on a sacred Mi’gmaq burial ground located on the Fort Folly Peninsula locally referred to as ‘Beaumont’ near Memramcook, NB. At the end of the ceremony, in a true act of reconciliation and friendship, a three-acre waterfront property near the ceremony site was given back to Amlamgog and the Mi’gmaq by Daniel LeBlanc and his family.
“My family were pleased and honoured to participate in the ceremony. We know how important this area is to Amlamgog and we are aware of the wonderful conservation work being done by the community. We are so happy with our decision to make this donation,” said Daniel LeBlanc.
The land is mainly comprised of salt marsh and stretches along 450 meters of the Petigotiag (Petitcodiac) River mud flats, just 100 meters from where the ceremony took place.
“The land holds significant importance for our community and will always be cherished by all the Mi’gmaq families near and far. We will ensure this land will benefit the next seven generations of trees, plants, animals, and people. We cannot thank the LeBlanc family enough for this generous act,” said Chief Rebecca Knockwood of Amlamgog.
Upon returning to Amlamgog First Nation, a community feast and celebration took place with good food, lots of smiles and birthday wishes for Amlamgog’s Knowledge Keeper Nicole Porter. There was a lot of gratitude at the celebration. Elder Augustine presented the gift to the community and acknowledged the day’s events had touched her spirit.
Media Inquiries:
Michelle Knockwood, michelleknockwood@ffhr.ca
About Amlamgog (Fort Folly) First Nation
Amlamgog is a small independent Mi’gmaq community located near Dorchester, NB. The community shows respect for the environment by promoting a safe and healthy community through cultural teachings. The community is a leader in endangered inner Bay of Fundy Atlantic Salmon recovery and manages various land conservation projects.
