Family Violence Initiative

COMPENDIUM OF PROMISING PRACTICES TO REDUCE VIOLENCE AND INCREASE SAFETY OF ABORIGINAL WOMEN IN CANADA

HISTORICAL LEGACY

Healing and Renewal of Family Roles and Responsibilities

Program Name:

Mi'kmaw Men's Intervention Program

Organization/Community:

Mi'kmaw Family and Children's Services of Nova Scotia

Location:

Eskasoni, Nova Scotia

Website:

N/A

Goals and Objectives:

To assist men in understanding the role violence plays in their lives and teach them how to assume the proper role as husband, father and contributor to the family.

Target Group Description:

Men and women (age 19 and over)

Program Description:

The Mi'kmaw Men's Intervention Program has three cycles of 12 to 14 week programs. Language – all sessions are conducted in Mi'kmaw in Eskasoni. Talking circles are the central format for program delivery. Men talk with eagle feathers. Ceremonies such as smudging, prayers, elder participation in gender roles and impact of violence in communities are used in each gathering. The program offers counselling services for women to understand the tools the men are learning to overcome violent behaviours.

Program Successes/Impact:

Graduates from original program have become mentors for successive programs. The revitalization of Mi'kmaw culture and language.

Key Lessons/Challenges:

Limited funding. A lack of cultural understanding on the part of non-Indigenous service providers.

Program in operation since:

2010.

Program:

Ongoing.