Honouring a Legacy: Gerald Gloade Reflects on his Journey with Mi’kmawey Debert

The interview with Gerald Gloade highlights his profound contributions to the Mi’kmawey Debert Cultural Centre (MDCC) and his lifelong dedication to preserving Mi’kmaw culture. Initially working with Natural Resources, Gloade’s Mi’kmaw perspective emerged during environmental education sessions, leading Tim Bernard, MDCC’s Executive Director, to invite him to join the organization. This transition felt natural for Gloade, who comes from a family of hunters and gatherers, instilling in him a deep respect for the land and the importance of preparation and sustainability. At MDCC, Gloade has played a key role in curatorial work, broadening the understanding of Mi’kmaw collections, practices, and events. He emphasizes the value of traditional teachings, particularly the mindset of preparing for the future and the responsibility of passing on knowledge to future generations.

As Gloade prepares for retirement, he looks forward to focusing on personal artistic projects and contributing as an Elder. He plans to remain active in sharing Mi’kmaw teachings, ensuring their continuity for future generations. Gloade takes pride in his role at MDCC and the legacy he leaves behind, believing that Mi’kmaw teachings have much to offer the world. His journey reflects a deep commitment to his culture, community, and the preservation of Mi’kmaw heritage, ensuring that their traditions and knowledge endure. Gloade’s work underscores the importance of keeping Indigenous voices and stories central, a mission he has passionately advanced throughout his career. Read the interview here.