Abegweit First Nation

The Abegweit First Nation comprises the following reserves:

Throughout the years, the population has steadily increased, rising from 240 registered people in 2016 to 402 registered people in December, 2022.^[6] These locations and areas are as of December 2021.^[7][8][9]

The Abegweit First Nation was established on March 7, 1972.^[10] The name Abegweit is the widely known Anglicization of Epekwitk, the original word taken from the Mi'kmaq language for Prince Edward Island. Abegweit means "Cradle on the Waves" which is fitting with its location off of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.^[11]

There are four reserves on Prince Edward Island, three of which are owned by the Abegweit First Nation. Before 1972, all four reserves and people living there were considered a part of the Lennox Island First Nation. Due to distance between the reserves and conflicts with the Council of the Lennox Island First Nation, it was decided that the Abegweit First Nation should be formed. Morell, Rocky Point, and Scotchfort reserves were then held by the Abegweit First Nation after a vote on March 7, 1972. The 279 acre (113.10 hectare) Scotchfort Reserve 4 was created and like all reserves on Prince Edward Island, was administered as part of the Lennox Island First Nation until separating in 1972.^[10] Soon after the separation on May 17, 1972, the first election was held appointing a chief and two councillors. The Abegweit First Nation amalgamated the three reserves in the eastern part of the province in the 1990s.^[12]

The Epekwitk Assembly of Councils was formed in 2019 and serves as the joint communication between the Lennox First Nation and Abegweit First Nation. This council is run by both Chiefs and Councils from both nations in an effort to develop different aspects of each of the First Nation's life ranging from government to economic development. There are three sub organizations that stem from the Epekwitk Assembly of Councils - Mi'kmaq Confederacy of PEI, L'nuey, and Epekwitk Development.^[13]

The native language of the people is Mi'kmaq. The Indian Act almost eliminated this language entirely; however, the Mi'kmaq language is now taught in schools and Mi'kmaq culture is heavily incorporated into mainstream events.^[14]

• "Netukulimk" - taking what you need and leaving the rest for the next generations

This principle was practiced daily in hunting traditions, recreational activities, and expansion. Abegweit Mi'kmaq people only pick blueberries and cranberries despite the affluent variety of other berries that grow in the surrounding area. They see resources as a gift that should not be taken for granted. In order to have continual access to these resources, they believe that it is important to use them sparingly and preserve.^[15]

Every year, the Abegweit First Nation holds PowWows to join together and meet other people. Due to COVID-19 the Abegweit First Nation was unable to hold its annual PowWow for two years. In 2022, they were able to finally host its first large one in Scotchfort. Many people partook in this two-day celebration consisting of traditional dances, songs, and rituals.^[16] One traditional dance is the Blanket Dance. This dance is meant to help with any expenses acquired from hosting the celebration.^[17]  

Abegweit is a custom band that is governed by 1 Chief and 3 Councillors that are elected every 4 years.^[18] The Abegweit First Nation is currently a part of Section 10 Band and uses as custom electoral system. The current chief is Roderick Walter Gould Jr who began his term in 2019.^[18][19]

As of 2018 and according to the Abegweit Comprehensive Community Plan, the Abegweit First Nation aims to promote informed decision making and focus on band involvement. Steps to implement these goals include developing a youth council and creating a Business Continuity Plan. Every year, the Councillors and other members meet to discuss the Strategic Operational Plan for projects, businesses, and programs.^[20]