Making Alliances

Quentin Condo
December 14, 2010
Gesgapegiag

"At one time, our bonds were very strong."

Quentin Condo, Mi'qmaq

When they arrived, Europeans had to learn to survive in a new environment. They got help from the Native people, who welcomed them to the coast. To thank them for their support and knowledge, they nicknamed them "Mi'gmaq", which means "allies". Then, colonial conflicts and the implementation of assimilative laws caused tensions and racism. Today, Quentin Condo remembers the history of his people and is forever scarred. However, he remains optimistic, finding confidence in humanity in the friends and family he’s developed with non-Native people. He still believes in alliances.