Nova Scotia Legal Aid opens office in Sipekne’katik First Nation

For Immediate Release

September 19, 2024

NOVA SCOTIA LEGAL AID OPENS GROUNDBREAKING OFFICE IN SIPEKNE’KATIK FIRST NATION

Nova Scotia Legal Aid (NSLA) and Sipekne'katik First Nation are proud to announce the opening of a new legal aid office in Sipekne'katik First Nation. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in improving access to justice for our people.

The office, which will be officially unveiled at Grand Opening ceremony this morning, Thursday, September 19th, 2024, is the first of its kind in Atlantic Canada and represents a new model for providing direct legal services to First Nations communities. The office will officially open next month.

Chief Michelle Glasgow of Sipekne'katik First Nation expressed enthusiasm for the new office: "This collaboration with Nova Scotia Legal Aid is a significant step towards addressing the unique legal needs of our community members and ensuring we have equal access to justice. Having legal aid services available right here in Sipekne'katik supports our goals of improving the well-being of our people and preserving our Mi'kmaw culture and traditions."

The office's approach will be guided by principles of mutual respect, community collaboration, and recognition of Mi'kmaq cultural values and traditions. "This collaboration with Sipekne'katik First Nation is part of our commitment to taking meaningful action to advance reconciliation with Mi’kmaq People, including addressing the overrepresentation of Indigenous clients in the criminal and child protection systems," said Charlene Moore, KC, CEO of Nova Scotia Legal Aid. "

Media Release to come later this morning.

We would like to extend an invitation to community members of Sipekne’katik First Nation to join us for a Community Open House from 12:00pm to 1:00pm today, Thursday, September 19, 2024, at the Nova Scotia Legal Aid Sipekne’katik Office located at 529-1 Church Street, Indian Brook.