by Gillian Batten, Mount Saint Vincent University

Mount student Kat Arsenault. Photo provided by MSVU

On February 1, 2018, the Aboriginal Student Centre and Office of the President at Mount Saint Vincent University hosted students, faculty and staff at the Mount’s first Wi’kapaltimk Aqtapuk or Mid-Winter Feast.

“The Mi’kmaw Mid-Winter Feast is an ancient Mi’kmaw Feast. It was traditionally celebrated shortly after the first new moon of Punamuiku’s (January). Mid-winter was the end of the year and the start of the new ceremonial year for the ancient Mi’kmaq. The Mid-Winter Feast purpose was the presentation of thanksgiving to all the spiritual forces, especially to the Great spirit, for the blessings of life, health, and sustenance and the privileges of social life.” (source: Potlotek First Nation)

Gathered in the Rosaria Dining Hall at the Mount, attendees feasted on a traditional Mi’kmaw menu, including stew, salmon, bannock, vegetables and berries. Drumming and danc ...

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