Meet Jayda, The Language and Activities Coordinator at Waqatasg

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Jayda Hartlin is the Language and Activities Coordinator at the Waqatasg Elders Home. With a love for planning and coordinating activities, she was confident that this position was a perfect fit.

Hartlin first became familiar with Waqatasg while visiting her grandfather before his passing. The experience left a lasting impression and ultimately inspired her to apply when the position became available.

“When I was coming here for his last days, it was different walking in here. I’ve never been in a nursing home, but walking into Waqatasg, this doesn’t feel like a nursing home. It feels very comforting, very welcoming. During that time, they offered us to go eat in the dining room, and seeing the residents all together and seeing everyone connected was very nice. So, when the job came up, I wanted to try it, to see what it was like over there, what kind of environment, but so far, it’s been lovely. It’s a beautiful building; everyone is very kind and helping me out”

To include language lessons with the residents, Hartlin asks the students in the Mi’gmaq immersion program to come in and speak with the Elders and looks to incorporate the Revitalization program to visit as well. Residents have also enjoyed a wide range of events, including lunch with the Listuguj Police Department, bingo, crafts with Lita Isaac, and visits from Alaqsite’w Gitpu School (AGS) students. The residents’ favorite activity by far is painting. Their creativity is on full display in a small gallery of artwork that welcomes visitors as they enter Waqatasg. Upcoming activities include summer outings around the community, live music performances, and monthly Pokeno games that are open to community participation.

The positive impact of these activities has been evident. Hartlin has noticed improvements in the residents’ overall well-being, especially when they have opportunities to spend time with the youth, share stories, and remain connected to the community.
She has also found the conversations personally rewarding. Listening to Elders share memories, whether they are talking about their careers, spending time on the river, or growing up in Listuguj, these conversations have given Hartlin a deeper appreciation and a reconnection to the community’s history and the importance of preserving those stories for future generations.

By Ivy Grenier

Upcoming Projects: Expanding, Repairing, Housing, and Developing

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As the community of Listuguj continues to grow and evolve, the Listuguj Mi’gmaq Government’s Capital and Infrastructure Directorate is taking on many new developments this next year, ranging from repairs and expansions to multiple new spaces. These projects aim to bring the future and an above standard feel to the community. Here are some of the ongoing and upcoming projects in the community.

Expansion of the Alaqsite’w Gitpu School means ongoing growth for both students and teachers. Construction begins by removing the existing trailers, aiming to create functional and efficient areas for educational activities and support services. Included in the expansion are office spaces for staff and teachers, a conference room, and two new classrooms.

Capital and Infrastructure is collaborating with the dioceses to begin construction on a new church in August. The cost of the project will be covered through insurance money obtained from the diocese from the fire in 2021. Located where the Saint Anne’s Church was on Riverside West, this new space will serve as a Catholic Church while remaining open and welcoming for all.
Commitment to growth continues through the twenty-one housing units in the plans for the 2026-2027 year, including several duplexes and triplexes.

Through the Haven House initiative, there will be several new units for transitional housing. This represents an important step for the community, creating a secure and safe environment for women and children impacted by domestic violence.

Another project for community growth is the Listuguj Mi’gmaq Development Center. They are working independently and will be expanding their current facilities to support additional programs, training opportunities, and to enhance operational capacity. Included in the extension are four office spaces and four classrooms. Construction on this project is not managed by Capital and Infrastructure.

Construction has already begun on a new two-story Band Office on Caplin Road. This new office provides spaces for private offices, open workspaces, conference rooms, storage areas, and council chambers.

The development of a new roadway within the community is underway. Atlantic Drive will run parallel to Pacific Drive on the east side. The project will support the construction of more than fifty residential units. The roadway will include sidewalks, paving, and curbs to support safe and accessible transportation.

The Listuguj Community Social Services Directorate oversees the Muin Ji’j afterschool program and will need a dedicated facility to support program delivery. The proposed building includes three classrooms, a janitorial area, washrooms, and kitchen to meet operational and program needs.

The Listuguj Community Social Services Directorate is also proposing to develop the Gathering our Roots project. An outdoor space connected to their building to serve as a safe and supportive area to meet with clients. The space will be organized into multiple sections connected by a main pathway. The main space will consist of a gazebo, a BBQ area, and a meeting space. This space is intended for client meetings, workshops, and group activities. A playground will be built to provide a safe and engaging environment for children accompanying clients. Traditional Space will be dedicated to cultural practices and healing. These spaces will be shared with the Muin Ji’j program, supporting both program delivery and family participation. These spaces will enhance engagement, promote well-being, and support cultural programming for the community.
These upcoming projects are essential in the community to foster growth and expansion for current residents and future generations. We are grateful for the continued efforts and support of everyone involved in the development of our ever-growing community

By Ivy Grenier

Community Outreach Van

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The Listuguj Mi’gmaq Government Chief and Council believe prevention is key to breaking the cycle of addiction. They are also looking beyond both prevention and enforcement and are committed to supporting families and individuals affected by the epidemic of addictions.

To expand our reach of the preventative mental health programs and the support needed to break the cycle of addictions, the Listuguj Community Health Services (LCHS) purchased a Community Outreach Van. Qualified Outreach Workers will be hired by the Listuguj Community Social Services Directorate (LCSSD) to provide these services.

This Community Outreach Van builds upon the work of the Listuguj Wellness Renewal Initiative (LWRI) aimed at engaging with our youth and community members to promote open, supportive communication, and de-stigmatize the conversations around mental health and substance misuse.

Mobile Mental Health counselling is a proven method of bringing mental health support to people in communities to overcome barriers like transportation or stigma. Services through the Community Outreach Van will include in-person counselling, workshops and resource distribution in a private and comfortable environment.

“We will continue to work together to address the addiction situation in our community. This Community Outreach Van is an opportunity for community members to come in and talk with us, through the outreach worker. It is our goal to provide them with the resource information available IN our community”. Director of Listuguj Community Health Services, Donna Metallic.

Stay tuned for more information and schedules updates as we move closer to launching this valuable resource in Listuguj.

By Listuguj Community Health Services

Students Complete Annual Moose Camp at Alaqsite’w Gitpu School

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Alaqsite’w Gitpu School (AGS) offers a variety of cultural and traditional courses, and one of these programs is a land-based course called, Outdoor Education. Outdoor Education is for students grades 5-8, where they explore Mi’gma’gi territory, and develop relationships with the land. They take part in hands-on learning such as hunting, fishing, snowshoeing, maple tapping, fire making, food sovereignty, and more. The community of Listuguj often associate Outdoor Education with the late Jonathan “Spanky” Barnaby, but since his passing, Outdoor Education Assistant, Travis Barnaby is carrying on his legacy by leading the program and sharing teachings with the students.

For the past five years, randomly selected students from grade 6 to grade 8 take part in a “Moose Camp”.  This year’s camp was held from Oct 27-29 at a chalet in Kedgwick, NB. The students, teachers and chaperones would hunt and scout the land for moose in the mornings and in the early evenings. This year the group saw a total of 42 moose, and 3 deer, and successfully brought one moose back to the community.

The moose is brought back to the Outdoor Education workshop at AGS, where it is stored in the cold room and skinned. After it is skinned, it is butchered by the students and cooked.  Hamburgers, steaks, and sausages are made with the moose. Once the process is done, the bones of the moose are then brought to the woods for other animals to feed. Since one moose can feed many people, over the past years, Outdoor Education have donated moose meat to those in need in the community, and even to an organization in Montreal.  The students take pride in contributing their moose and supporting their community.

The Moose Camp offers valuable knowledge and experience for youth in Listuguj. The students recognize the hard work that goes into hunting and providing food for the community.  They are involved in the process from the start to finish and get to witness the importance of tradition firsthand.  Regarding the Moose Camp and land-based learning, Travis Barnaby said, “I want to keep it as traditional as possible. There is a lot of stuff that has been passed down to me by my family.”

Moose Camp 2025 attendees:

Teachers/Chaperones:
Travis Barnaby
Erwin Molley
Davery Mitchell
Jennifer Morrison
Crystal Moffat

Students:
Tessa Barnaby
Kiana Anderson-Isaac
Tucker Barnaby
Knoxx Vicaire
Mckenna Metallic
Donna Isaac Brisk
Buzz Doucette
Elijah Isaac

By Ann Marie Jacques

Wi’gatign Exclusive Interview with Corporal Muin

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Hi Corporal Muin! It’s great to meet with you today!

Hi there! It’s so nice to meet you! Roar!

I know you’ve been busy since you’ve started your new role at the Listuguj Police Department (LPD). How did you become a member of the LPD?

 I “applied” to join the Listuguj Police Department because I wanted to help spread smiles, laughter, and kindness in our community! The officers thought I’d be a great helper — and maybe because I really love donuts too!  

What kind of things do you help the Police Officers with? 

 I help by reminding everyone to be safe and kind. I like to visit schools, help teach about safety, and make sure everyone feels happy and cared for. Plus, I give the best bear hugs!  

Do you take part in special missions or attend community events? 

 Oh yes! You’ll see me at lots of community events — saying hi, taking photos, dancing, and having fun with everyone. Every day with the LPD is an adventure! 

How can kids help keep their community safe? 

 Kids can help by being kind, respectful, and helpful. You can look for your friends, listen to trusted adults, and make good choices. Even small acts of kindness can help keep everyone safe! 

If someone in the community is in trouble, or needs help, who should they reach out to? 

 If someone needs help, they can always go to the Listuguj Police Department or talk to a trusted adult like a parent, teacher, or Elder. The police are always there to help!  

What is your favorite thing about Listuguj? 

 My favorite thing is the people! Everyone is so kind, friendly, and full of community spirit. I love being part of Listuguj — where safety and smiles go paw-in-paw! 

For LPD’s Emergency Line: 418-788-2003 or 911
Office Phone: 418-788-2334
Anonymous Drug and Crime Tip Line: 506-987-3654

Email: lpd.tips@listuguj.ca

Laya Morrison – Sharing Her Love for Jingle Dress Dancing

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Listuguj’s Laya Morrison is a student at Sugarloaf Senior High School and began dancing when she was around five years old. She was initially interested in fancy shawl dancing but quickly discovered her love for jingle dress dancing. She was inspired by her family and said, “I’ve always looked up to all of my Aunties, and I knew I wanted to be able to dance and have those teachings, and be a role model to the younger ones, as they are to me.”

She taught herself the dance by watching others, paying attention to their foot work, body language and their steps. Morrison enjoys being around other dancers, the songs, and praying for those who need it. She said, “I’m very grateful for the opportunities and the memories I make along this journey of mine.”

Morrison recently announced she will be offering classes to youth who would like to learn how to dance and learn more about their culture. There are two different classes for different age groups – ages 8-10 and ages 4-7. These classes will be offered at Alaqsite’w Gitpu School on weekends. Morrison is a big advocate for encouraging youth to learn how to dance and hopes that her classes can create dancing opportunities for others. Her advice to youth who are looking to learn jingle dress dancing is to never give up, carry themselves with confidence, and embrace the importance of developing their own unique style.

Morrison continues to dance at all Pow Wows in the area. She was Jr. Head Dancer at this year’s powwow at St. Mary’s First Nation in Fredericton, NB.  She is also incredibly grateful to be able to go on the powwow trail with her family, and for all their love and encouragement.

If you would like more information on Laya Morrison’s jingle dance dress classes, you can contact her directly or find her Dance Class group advertised on Alaqsite’w Gitpu School’s Facebook page.

By Ann Marie Jacques

Apoqonmatultiej Wellness Centre Has Its Grand Opening

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On Tuesday, October 7th, the Apoqonmatultiej Wellness Centre held a grand opening event.  The Centre is officially open and is housed in the new expansion at Haven House at 2B Lnu Street in Listuguj. The grand opening consisted of giveaways, refreshments, and information on services the Wellness Centre has to offer.

This new Centre is a safe and friendly environment and offers support and services in several areas, such as family violence, sexual violence, addictions, mental health and more. The services can be offered via one-on-one support, workshops, group sessions and more.

Community members can access services and retrieve information at the Wellness Centre for the following programs:

  • Culture and Family Support – Family Violence Prevention – Promoting positive and healthy lifestyle for the male population in Listuguj.
  • CAVAC – “Crime Victims Assistance Centre” – Access to professionals trained in intervention if you are a victim or a witness to a crime.
  • Mawiomi Treatment Services – Support for Indigenous adults navigating challenges with drugs, alcohol and substance use disorders.
  • Sacred Bundles – Healing and Counselling Services for First Nations.

For more information:

Manager
418-788-2958

Social Intervenor
418-788-3080

Women’s Outreach
418-788-3674

CAVAC
418-788-2850

Drop-ins are welcome!

By Ann Marie Jacques

“All you need is an open mind and remember to be gentle with yourself.”

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Listuguj’s Paige Isaac has built a strong foundation in the community with her educational and professional background. Formerly the Mi’gmaq Cultural Coordinator for the Listuguj Mi’gmaq Government’s Education Directorate, she has now started LMDC’s Mi’gmaq Immersion Classes, and is also currently completing her Masters of Education this year with Cape Breton University.  In addition to these impressive qualifications, Isaac is also a certified yoga instructor.

She attended her first yoga class roughly 15 years ago when she was residing in Montreal, to help balance and reduce the stress that comes along with being a university student. Since then, she has been practicing ever since.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Isaac took a 200-hour yoga teacher training program. Then, in 2021, she came across an organization called Native Strength Revolution, that offers a teacher training course online open to Indigenous people across North America. After this online course, Isaac then completed a 300-hour teacher training. As part of this program, students were required to complete 50 hours of continuing education, and Isaac chose to focus her time on teaching youth. She also enrolled in several courses including yoga for neurodiverse children, and a program called “Girl on Fire” which offered yoga and personal development sessions for young girls.

When it comes to trying yoga for the first time, Isaac said, “All you need is an open mind and remember to be gentle with yourself.” People often associate yoga with being flexible, but that is not the case. It is a way to ground yourself, find balance, and form a connection with breath.

Isaac is open for bookings if anyone or any organization is interested in her yoga teachings. She is available to teach any age groups from children to Elders. You can message her via Facebook Messenger (Paige Isaac) or by email at paigeeisaac@gmail.com

By Ann Marie Jacques

September is FASD Awareness Month

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FASD – Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder is a lifelong disability that affects the brain and body of people who were exposed to alcohol in the womb.  These disabilities could be physical, behavioral or intellectual. Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can cause permanent birth defects to babies and other defects such as:

  • Brain damage (difficulties with learning, remembering, thinking things through, getting along with others.)
  • Vision and hearing difficulties
  • Bones, limbs and fingers that are not properly formed
  • Heart, kidney, liver and other organ damage
  • Slow growth

The safest choice during pregnancy is no alcohol at all.

On September 9th, the Listuguj Community Health Services Directorate held a Lunch and Learn open to the community. They provided important information regarding FASD, and several prizes were given out.

If you have any questions on FASD or how to ensure a safe pregnancy, please reach out to Listuguj Community Health Services at 418-788-2155.

By Ann Marie Jacques

Mi’gmaq of Gespe’gewa’gi Announce Major Wind Development Partnership

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August 27, 2025

Mi’gmaq of Gespe’gewa’gi announce major wind development partnership

Gespe’gewa’gi, – Today marks an important step for the Mi’gmaq of Gespe’gewa’gi. In partnership with Alliance de l’énergie de l’Est and Hydro-Québec, the Mi’gmawei Mawiomi Business Corporation has committed to exploring the wind power potential of Gespe’gewa’gi. This initiative reflects the Mi’gmaq vision of exercising their rights and responsibilities on their territory to create a greener, more prosperous future.

Gespe’gewa’gi, meaning “the last land” in Mi’gmaq, refers to the traditional territory of the Mi’gmaq communities of Gespeg, Gesgapegiag, and Listuguj, shareholders of the Mi’gmawei Mawiomi Business Corporation. Gespe’gewa’gi includes the Gaspé peninsula and the eastern Bas-Saint-Laurent regions. The Mi’gmaq have never ceded or surrendered their Aboriginal rights and title in Gespe’gewa’gi, which are protected by the Peace and Friendship Treaties.

The new partnership will explore the potential for up to 6,000 MW of new wind power capacity in Gespe’gewa’gi. It is designed to harness the territory’s potential for green energy production while respecting the role of the Mi’gmaq as stewards of the land.  It will also generate long-term, stable revenue for the communities of Gespeg, Gesgapegiag and Listuguj, supporting self-determination and economic growth.

This agreement represents a step towards economic reconciliation and strengthening relationships. It prioritizes engagement and consent before any development occurs within unceded Mi’gmaq territory.

At the heart of the partnership is the principle of social acceptability. No specific project has been agreed to, and the partnership does not guarantee that any particular project will be built. Instead, it ensures the Mi’gmaq have a central role in decision-making and that any future projects will move forward only with community support. Having a seat at the table ensures development respects the ongoing Mi’gmaq use and occupation of the land.

The Mi’gmaq are the original people of this region and have been responsible for the health and wellbeing of the territory since time immemorial. This partnership strengthens their ability to carry out this sacred responsibility so that the next seven generations inherit a strong and thriving Gespe’gewa’gi.

Quotes:

“The Mi’gmaq have inherent rights and responsibilities for the stewardship of the land, waters, and living things of Gespe’gewa’gi. Our Peace and Friendship Treaties confirm our rights and responsibilities, and this agreement will empower us to fulfill them.”– Chief Scott Martin, Listuguj Mi’gmaq Government

“This partnership can be seen as a step towards Truth and Reconciliation through economic development  ventures.  By having representation at the table shows collaboration and mutual respect to all those involved in Gespe’gewa’gi.” – Chief Rod Larocque, Gesgapegiag Mi’gmaq First Nation

“This agreement marks a pivotal step for our community and for the recognition of our rights over the Gespe’gewa’gi. We approach it with a firm commitment to defending our members’ interests while focusing on constructive collaboration with our partners in the spirit of reconciliation. We made it a point to be present in the discussions and will continue to participate to ensure that economic development takes place with respect for our territory and for the benefit of all.” –  Chief Céline Cassivi, Mi’gmaq Nation of Gespeg


Media Contact

Victoria Belton
Senior Consultant, Media Profile
416-997-5179
victoria.belton@mediaprofile.com