Contrasting Stewardship & Ownership
As autumn arrives, on the heels of the worst drought in decades, Nova Scotia marks two important dates: the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation 🧡 (Sep 30) and Mi’kmaki Treaty Day 🪶(Oct 1). An urgent and timely moment to reflect on our relationship with the land – on whose territory we live and what it means to move from mere ownership to true stewardship and equity. It’s important to acknowledge that we live and work on land that was never ceded by the Mi’kmaq people—an ongoing reality and one of many truths with which our communities must reckon if we are truly committed to reconciliation and equity.
For centuries, land in Nova Scotia has been a source of wealth, power, and dispossession. The Mi’kmaq, whose treaties form the legal foundation of this place, have long fought to maintain stewardship and connection despite colonial appropriation. African Nova Scotians, many descended from Black Loyalists and refugees promised land and freedom, have likewise faced generations of systemic barriers to land ownership, from broken promises to outright displacement.
Yet, meaningful change is taking root. The story of Asitu’lisk [asitulsk.ca] is a landmark moment—a return of stewardship to Mi’kmaq hands and a model for how land can shift from private to collective care. Similarly, the rematriation of the Tatamagouche Centre’s land reflects 7th Generation-driven approaches to governance rooted in community renewal and right relationship.
African Nova Scotian communities are also forging new pathways: Community Land Trusts and Centers, often guided by the spirit of Ubuntu (“I am because we are”), are reclaiming space for Black families and future generations, offering hope for healing and economic security.
All of this work happens in the shadow of climate crises. Increasing extreme weather causes uncertainty in every plan and every strategy. The stewardship model of relationship with land is not just a moral response but also offers the resilience Nova Scotia needs. Let us embrace the truth that the land we stand on was never a commodity to be owned, but a shared responsibility—one we are called to restore, together. 🤝
Reflection:
How can land be a source not only of wealth, but of connection, healing, and justice? What does true stewardship look like as we face an uncertain climate and unfinished reconciliation?
#RCFNS #RuralMatters #TruthThenReconciliation
