Mi’kmaq ideologies are a set of understandings rather than rules and most people value and display them within their daily routine.

Respect

Respect for elders is one of the main ideologies that is accepted throughout all native communities. It is very important and is a high priority. Respect also extends to the rest of the world in caring for animals, plants, other people, etc. 

Non-interference

This concept is one of the hardest for non-Aboriginal people to understand. This involves not advising, persuading, or ordering someone to do something. In Mi’kmaq society it is considered rude and judgmental to tell someone else how to do something or how to behave.

The acceptable way to guide desired behaviours is to tell stories of someone in similar situations and give examples of different types of consequences and what that was like for them. Then let the person decide on their own what course they would like to take. In Mi’kmaq communities before colonization, children were taught by everyone in the community how to act and what behaviours were acceptable. 

Anger must not be shown

It is considered rude to show anger in any setting and is unacceptable to display this emotion in public. 

Everything is to be shared

Traditionally the Mi’kmaq people lived in a communal setting where all resources were shared among the people so that everyone could survive the harsh environments. Success and achievements were and still are today celebrated throughout the community. 

Concept of time

Mi’kmaq peoples’ sense of time stems from their beliefs in that everything will happen when the time is right and meant to happen. This usually occurs when they have completed something else that they have started. 

Gratitude

This is another concept that may be difficult for non-Aboriginal people to understand. Praise and gratitude are not given to people for their jobs. There is an understanding that you have that job because you are good at what you do, and you do it well. An historical example would be a hunter. He is expected to hunt and provide for his community. He is not given praise when he brings back a large animal for everyone to feast upon. This is the same with other jobs in the community. Praise and gratitude are thought to be celebrated at the end of life.

Protocol

Protocol is very important in many communities. They range from Pow Wow protocols to medicines. It is pertinent that you follow the communities’ protocol when working with Aboriginal people.  It can make or break interactions with people in the community and shows the level of respect one has for the members of that community. Today’s communities blend traditional and new customs, beliefs, manners and rules, if you are not sure about something then you need to ask.

Non-confrontational

Most Mi’kmaq people do not like confrontational actions and will usually withdraw when insulted or offended. Mi’kmaq people are peaceful.

Eye contact and silences

On Prince Edward Island, eye contact is acceptable; however, in general it may be perceived as rude and challenging. This depends on the Aboriginal person’s customs and traditions. Do not be surprised if direct eye contact is not made during a conversation. It is a sign of respect. Silences also depend on the customs of a person. Generally, silences in conversation are due to a person thinking before they speak. This is important to decrease the misunderstandings that can occur.

Source: Alma MacDougall, Abegweit First Nation - Aboriginal Cultural Connections: A Child Protection Resource Guide