Malagawatch, CB – Visiting Malikewe’j (Malagawatch) for the first time, people often describe a sense of peace and well-being that comes over them as they enter the Mi’kmaw community on the shores of the Bras d’Or Lakes.

Mala, as it is affectionately known to the Cape Breton Mi’kmaq who share it, is off the beaten track, and its serenity is only broken by the call of the eagles who share it with the handful of residents.

It is unique in that it is shared jointly by the five bands in Unama’ki (Cape Breton), and has been used by the Mi’kmaw people as a gathering place and burial grounds for generations.

This week, at the community’s annual outdoor mass, the residents have a few new things to celebrate with the publication of a new booklet on the history and people of Malikewe’j,  and a ribbon cutting for a permanent monument.

Project coordinator Nadine Lefort elaborates on the process that led to the monument, “It was created through a gathering and conversation with Malikewe’j residents and Elders, with Cape Breton artist Gordon Kennedy.

A metal archway, at the entrance to the graveyard, commemorates people who lived and are buried there, honours those who continue to live in Mala, and those who will live there in the future.”

The images depicted in the arch show the Mi’kmaw peoples’ deep connection with the land.

Black Ash trees form the archway and a sun represents the Peopl ...