Reflect on 2024 with the Listuguj Wellness Renewal Initiative

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It’s no secret that the holidays are a busy time of the year that comes with added pressure and stress.  The Listuguj Wellness Renewal Initiative (LWRI) wants to help you keep your wellness in check during the holidays with these tips:

  1. Maintain healthy habits (mentally and physically) – Do not overdo it and burn yourself out over the holidays. Do not focus on being the perfect host or buying the perfect gifts. Make sure to set boundaries and limit expectations. Remember to eat healthily, stay active, prioritize sleep, and take time for yourself.
  2. Stay connected with loved ones or reach out if you are feeling lonely or sad – You do not need to be alone this holiday season. Reach out to your loved ones, or support group and let them know how you’re feeling.
  3. Stay positive – The holiday season is about traditions, joy, and spending time with the people you love. Be present and be kind to yourself.

This year the Listuguj Wellness Renewal Initiative continued to educate the community with information on ongoing programs and services offered in Listuguj relating to health and wellness. This information was provided at various events, and on the Listuguj Mi’gmaq Government’s social media channels.

Here’s what the LWRI were up to in 2024:

  • February 21 and 22nd – A Wellness Symposium was held at the Listuguj Community Development Center. This event consisted of many guest speakers and presenters focusing on the topic of overall wellness. Several booths were set up inside with a variety of information and resource materials.  A sacred fire was held outside for the duration of the event by John Paul Lavigne. 

Guest speakers: Glenda Wysote LaBillois, Dr. Stéphanie Marsan and RN Johanna Sincére of the Centre Hospitalier de l’Universite de Montreal (CHUM), Christine Metallic, Michael Martin, Kali Barnaby, Melissa Bryan and Mitchell Syvret-Caplin of Mawiomi Treatment Center, Codey Martin, Patrick Wilmot, and Jacob Gale. A speech was given on behalf of Chief and Council, and from the Listuguj Mi’gmaq Government’s CEO and Directors.

  • April 24 – A Career Fair was held for high school students at Alaqsite’w Gitpu School. This event consisted of guest speakers, breakout sessions, and a trade fashion show. The LWRI had a booth set up and provided information to youth on wellness programs in the community.
  • November 18-22 – The LWRI honoured National Addictions Awareness Week by assisting with a number of events. A Wellness Walk to Alaqsite’w Gitpu School was held. Guest speakers included: Diane Bernard, Michael Isaac, and a speech on behalf of Chief and Council. A craft night and drum making event was also held during this week.
  • The LWRI conducted multiple focus groups over the year, collecting data, and speaking with different age demographics on the importance of wellness in the community.
  • The LWRI held several prescription drop off events, in collaboration with the Listuguj Police Department, Listuguj Community Health Services, the Listuguj Community Social Services Directorate, and the CLSC. Community members could drop off expired, unused/used prescriptions for a chance to win a prize. Disposal of medication is important, because fewer medicines in the home means fewer safety risks.
  • Several Holiday events: a Jingle all the Way Christmas party, annual Christmas parade, and a house decorating contest.

At any time during the holidays, if you need support or assistance, there are numbers available 24/7 to support Listuguj community members. We recommend using these numbers to ensure that emergencies are dealt with in a prompt and efficient manner.

  • For all emergencies – 911

  • Listuguj Police Department/Listuguj Fire Department Emergency Line – 418-788-2003

  • For Listuguj Community Social Services:

Contact information regarding any youth protection matter or concern during business hours, community members are encouraged to reach the Child and Family Services Social Worker or respective team members at 418-788-3039 from Monday through Friday 8:30-4:30 (exceptions are statutory and designated holidays).

In the event of an after-hour youth protection emergency, community members may call Youth Protection Services for out-of-province calls or cellular calls 418-368-1803 OR 1-800-463-0629 Evenings/Weekends. Additional contacts: emergency calls may be made during the day at 1-800-463-4225.  

  • Listuguj Haven House 24-Hour Crisis Line – 418-788-5544
    www.listugujhavenhouse.ca
    Facebook – Listuguj Haven House

  • Mawiomi Treatment Centre in Gesgapegiag – 418-759-3522
    https://www.mawiomi.org/

  • 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline is now available nationwide in English and French, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The Listuguj Wellness Renewal Initiative wishes you all a safe and happy holiday season and looks forward to bringing you more information on wellness in the new year!

Listuguj Wellness Renewal Initiative – Our Journey to a Healthier Community Starts Here!

By Ann Marie Jacquesz

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A Recap of the 2024 Justice Symposium

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On December 3rd, the Restorative Justice Directorate held its annual Justice Symposium. This year’s theme was, “Building Mi’gmaq Cultural Competence in the Judicial System.”


The Master of Ceremony for this event was Donna Metallic, a Native Court Worker and fitness instructor in Listuguj. The opening prayer was done in Mi’gmaq by Sugarloaf Senior High School student, Ella Vicaire. Macy Metallic spoke on behalf of Chief and Council. The event was catered by Diane Bernard.


Ella Vicaire was invited back up to speak about learning the Mi’gmaq language and how important it is to connect to your culture. She said, “Don’t be afraid to take a leap of faith, and learn about your culture.” She spoke about the late, Joanne Vicaire as her mentor, who provided her with teachings. She also spoke about her Aunt Bella Caplin, and the impact she left on the community.


Justice Transformation Initiative Director, Mary Bradstreet delivered opening remarks and talked about the services that the Justice Transformation Initiative houses: Haven House, Youth Leadership Program, Mediation Processes, and the Restorative Justice Program. Bradstreet also talked about her work over the years to get Listuguj its own court system right here in the community. Bradstreet also stressed that it is important to always keep your contact information up to date in order to receive Restorative Justice services in Listuguj.


The first keynote speaker of the event was Listuguj’s own, Houston Barnaby. Barnaby is an Indigenous Rights Lawyer who has represented the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq Chief’s. He spoke on the importance of land acknowledgments, reconciliation, and on jurisdictions amongst Turtle Island. He stated that 1/3 of Indigenous people are incarcerated in our systems, and there is still a long way to go when it comes to healing, but he will continue to raise awareness on Indigenous issues throughout Canada.  


The next speaker was Lawyer and President of the Bas-St-Laurent-Gaspésie- Îles de la Madeleine, Alexis Deschenes. He works for legal aid in New Richmond and has represented several clients in Listuguj. He also taught penal law to the Listuguj.Rangers. He revealed that beginning in February, Listuguj court cases will be done in Carleton, rather than New Carlisle. 20% of court cases in New Carlisle come from Listuguj, and this is a way to prioritize Listuguj clients without having to do the extra travelling for their court cases. He also mentioned that ceremonies, Eagle feathers and medicines are welcome and available in the court room, and that English will now be spoken in the court room for Listuguj clients.

The next keynote speaker was Associate Director of the Natural Resources-Fisheries, Denny Isaac. Isaac spoke on the rights and reconciliation in Fisheries, and its evolving relationship with the government


The final keynote speaker of the day was Dwayne Ward. Ward is originally from Metepenagiag (Red Bank) but has been living in Listuguj for several years. Ward has worked an addictions counselor for 12 years, and runs the Mixed Martial Arts club, The Vault in the community. He has been sober for 25 years. He said, “My whole story today is about addictions, recovery, being sober and trying to make a difference.”  Throughout his life, he has worked alongside Restorative Justice.


If you would like more information on the Justice Transformation Initiative, you can contact Mary Bradstreet at 418-788-0351.

By Ann Marie Jacques

Chief’s Corner with Chief Scott Martin – December 2024

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I’d like to take this time to thank everyone in the community of Listuguj for a wonderful 2024! We had several great events throughout the year – Graduation ceremonies, Migwite’tm, our annual Pow Wow, the grand opening of the new police station, and much more! It’s a pleasure seeing everyone out and taking part in these events and taking in the beauty of Listuguj. I’d also like to acknowledge all our community members we lost over the year. I offer my sincere condolences to everyone affected by these losses. Our community is resilient, and I know 2025 will be a great year. The Listuguj Chief and Council wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Jamie Metallic Designs

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Listuguj’s own Jamie Metallic is a self-taught artist who has been making traditional crafts since she was a child. Crafting always made her feel at peace and grounded, and is motivated by creating meaningful art. Over the years she developed a broad skill set when it comes to traditional crafts, and her specialties include concho belts, traditional beaded mitts, moccasins, ribbon skirts, quilling, beading and Pow Wow regalias.  Metallic’s precision and intricateness is a true reflection of her years of experience when it comes to crafting.  

Regarding her work, and inspirations, Metallic said, “Over the years as an artist, you do get inspired by other’s people’s work, but I’d like to think that I’ve developed my own style of beadwork and creations. I like to put my own spin on my designs, I love to incorporate quill work into my pieces and think outside the box for my bead designs on my mitts. I like for them to stand out.”  She is inspired by the people she works with, whether it’s a student in her workshops, fellow creators or the communities she engages with. She is always eager to explore and grow when it comes to her craft and is determined to bring Indigenous art and culture to a wider audience.

Metallic offers belt and quill workshops, where she offers hands-on experience in learning traditional techniques and to embrace Indigenous artistry. These workshops are great for team building exercises, or for individuals who are simply interested in learning more about creating traditional crafts. She said, “Our workshops are more than just craft sessions: they are about creating shared space for creativity, collaboration, and community.”

If you would like more information on Jamie Metallic Designs, or would like to host a workshop, you can email jamiecmetallic77@gmail.com, reach out on Facebook: Jamie Metallic or Jamie Metallic Designs, or through Instagram: Jamie Metallic.

By Ann Marie Jacques

Chief’s Corner with Chief Scott Martin – November 2024

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I would like to thank everyone in the community who voted in the 2024 elections. Our administration has eight returning councilors from last term, and 4 new councilors.  I would like to welcome our new councilors, Christie Caplin, Tanner Isaac, and Macy Metallic, and a returning councilor, Chris Wysote.  I am looking forward to working with council and continue to achieve progress in our beautiful community of Listuguj. Wela’lioq for your support!

GEMS – Girls, Empowerment, Mentorship, Strengthening.

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GEMS is a program held within the Listuguj Community Social Service Directorate (LCSSD.) It is an after-school group for girls aged 9-13. This program is designated to offer mentorship and guidance for young girls in the community.

Carlene Isaac is a Home Support Worker at LCSSD and facilitates the group projects with GEMS. The girls who are registered for this program meet after school every Monday at LCSSD. They work on a variety of different projects such as arts and crafts and self-defense. The program also consists of information sessions on several important topics like bullying, sexual development, dangers of vaping and more.  

In the new year, Isaac would like to incorporate new teachings and cultural aspects to the program, such as beading, the Seven Sacred Teachings, medicines, and more.

In August, the GEMS program held a jingle dress workshop with Listuguj’s own, Cheyenne Isaac-Gloade. All nine girls enrolled in the program completed their dresses with pride.

At the end of the school year, the GEM and PALS (Protecting Ancient Leadership Skills) program at LCSSD went to tree-go in Rimouski.

When it comes to the importance of this program in Listuguj, Isaac said, “GEMS is important to the community because it’s a little group like family for the girls. They all get along when they’re here, and all have a great time. Most importantly, it also teaches them a lot of skills, and knowledge, and culture.”

As of right now, the GEMS program is full, with 10 girls enrolled. If you are interested in more information on GEMS, and upcoming registration opportunities, please contact Carlene Isaac at LCSSD at 418-788-3039 or via email at carlene.isaac@listuguj.ca.

By Ann Marie Jacques

Listuguj Police Department’s Grand Opening

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Earlier this month, the Listuguj Police Department held a soft grand opening for their brand-new police station located at 250 Riverside W.

The event was attended by the Minister of Public Security and Public Safety Canada. An opening prayer was done by Ella Vicaire and a smudging ceremony was done by Chad Gedeon. Rosslyn Vicaire said a few words on behalf of her late, father, Henry Vicaire.

Speeches were done by the Director of Public Security, Peter Arsenault, Chief of Police Sharon Barnaby, Deputy Chief Jacob Mitchell, Chief Scott Martin, and CEO Bassem Abdrabou.

Shout out to Abby Metallic who organized this wonderful event.

By Ann Marie Jacques

AGS Launches New Production Team

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Alaqsite’w Gitpu School (AGS) has recently rolled out a brand-new production team for students to take part in. Gitpu Productions was established roughly a month and a half ago and was created for students who wanted to be part of a team, but not necessarily interested in sports. Being part of a team or club shows commitment, independence and responsibility.  Gitpu Productions is led by gym teachers, Jennifer Morrison and Tyler Gideon, with assistance from teacher, Darryl Stevens, and as of right now, there are 11 members, ranging from grade 5 to grade 7.

Grade five French Immersion student, Mia Legace, who is a member of the production team, said, “Gitpu Productions is pretty much of us making videos of people working at our school, of the athletes, and everyone else, and we put them on our media groups online.”

Each student has their own jobs and duties that they are comfortable with performing. Some of the tasks include sports announcements, filming and live-streaming sports events, graphic design, photography, laundry, and more. Gideon said, “There’s so many things that we can do. We’re going to start small, and we’re going to build and build and make sure all these students experience different jobs and see all the little things behind the scenes that most people don’t see when it comes to events.” While some of the students on the production team are members of various sports teams at AGS, they work together to ensure all tasks are met, if one of the students is out to play sports.

The production team gets together at least once a week to brainstorm and come up with ideas for future projects and events. A few ideas for the future: interviewing athletes to create profiles and bios, becoming game officials and statisticians, and creating gear for the team, with a logo created by member, grade seven English student, Charlie Pictou.  The team will also be looking into rolling out their own TikTok channel and creating more social media content. Morrison said, “We’re also going to be having some video editing. They’re going to be in charge of creating TikToks, content for social media, and getting the word out to community members.”

As of right now, you can see what Gitpu Productions has been working on via the Facebook page, “AGS Sports and Recreation.” The students have been dedicated to showing AGS and the community what they have been working on. We look forward to seeing what they have in store for the future!

From left to right:
Jennifer Morrison, Emily Mitchell, Donna Isaac Brisk, Sheeana Martin, Aubrey Wysote, Kiana Anderson Isaac, Charlie Pictou, Mia Legace, Lori Brisk, Kiera Barnaby, Lilly Barnaby, Shyla Martin, and Tyler Gideon.

By Ann Marie Jacques

And the award for best tasting water goes to… Listuguj!

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On September 24th, Listuguj’s Public Works Department participated in a competition organized by the Circuit Rider Training Program (CRTP) and Indigenous Services Canada’s First Nation and Inuit Health Branch at an annual banquet in Montreal.

Listuguj competed against approximately 23 First Nations communities to see which community had the best tasting water. In the end, there was a “taste-off” between the Innu community of Unamen Shipu and Listuguj.

Listuguj won first place for the best tasting water and took home “The Stanley Drop/ La Goute Stanley.”

Congratulations to the team for winning this award and providing the community with fresh, clean, drinkable water!

Listuguj’s Public Works Department goes above and beyond all year round, to ensure the community has good quality drinking water.  There are several daily, weekly, monthly and yearly tasks that need to be performed to maintain the fresh water in the community.

Shout out to the team:
Marc LeMay – Trainer and Instructor
Joshua Isaac – Public Works Manager/Operator
Gunner Isaac – Fresh Water Treatment Operator
John Loren Wysote – Fresh Water Treatment Operator and Wastewater Plant Operator
Andrea Mitchell – In Training for Water and Wastewater Operator

By Ann Marie Jacques

Kicking off the Mi’gmaw Language Home Kit Engagement Sessions

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In early October, the Mi’gmaw Language and Culture Revitalization Team, in partnership with Metallic Publishing kicked off their very first Mi’gmaw Home Kit Engagement Session. In this session, a reading was done of the children’s book “U’j’ji’jg”, titled “Blackflies” in English, originally written by Robert Munsch. This book was published in Mi’gma’gi by Metallic Publishing, translated by Mary Ann Metallic, and edited by Victoria Metallic and Janice Vicaire. Metallic Publishing worked with Scholastic Canada Ltd. to make the Mi’gmaw version of this book possible, which included an agreement that Metallic Publishing had to duplicate the layout of the English version. The artwork in the book was done by Jay Odjick from the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg Algonquin community in Québec. The book took months to translate and edit, and number of drafts were done before the final project was completed.


Listuguj’s Victoria Metallic, creator of Metallic Publishing feels as though sharing Mi’gmaw stories and providing resources is important to those who are wanting to learn the language. This was one of the reasons she created Metallic Publishing. She said, “Creating a publishing company was very important, because when I was younger, I didn’t have any books in Mi’gmaw to read or browse through. I didn’t have any videos to listen to. The only time I heard Mi’gmaw was through my parents at home.”

Since “U’j’ji’jg” has been published, it has been distributed to schools in Listuguj, Gesgapegiag, and New Richmond. Various group readings and discussions have been done on the book as well. Metallic Publishing has several videos that can be used as a useful tool when it comes to learning the Mi’gmaw language. Metallic said, “We’ve made some videos on YouTube, where you can hear audio of different words, sounds of the letters, and different verbs too.” These videos can be found on Metallic Publishing’s page on Facebook, or on YouTube.

If you would like a copy of “U’j’ji’jg” please reach out to Mi’gmaw Language and Culture Coordinator, Mary-Beth Wysote for more information. She can be reached at mary-beth.wysote@listuguj.ca or at 418-788-2136.

By Ann Marie Jacques