Pjila’si Exhibit Celebrates Mi’kmaw Culture

March 7, 2025

A new permanent exhibit at the Museum of Natural History in Halifax invites Nova Scotians to deepen their understanding of Mi’kmaw culture.

Pjila’si, which means welcome in Mi’kmaw, is an interactive space that brings to life the knowledge, skills and adaptability of the Mi’kmaw people throughout history and to this day.

In a collaborative effort, a Mi’kmaw advisory group led the planning and design of the exhibit, partnering with the Museum of Natural History and the Nova Scotia Museum.

“I sincerely thank the Mi’kmaw advisory group and the staff of the Nova Scotia Museum for their dedication to sharing Mi’kmaw culture with Nova Scotians,” said Dave Ritcey, Minister of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage. “Their combined efforts have ensured that this remarkable exhibit truly reflects the principles, values and customs of the Mi’kmaw community.”

Pjila’si opened to the public today, March 7.

Quotes:

“The Nova Scotia Museum recognized that this exhibit is what reconciliation should be. Museums have shifted away from being only about objects and are more about cultural presentation. This exhibit is unique because it is community led, and the museum gave that responsibility back to community.”
— Roger Lewis, member, Mi’kmaw advisory group

“Pjila’si is a welcoming space for connection, learning and reflection. It’s been an honour to work with the Mi’kmaw advisory group on this exhibit, which invites visitors to experience the language, stories, and traditions of the Mi’kmaw people in a meaningful way.”
— Laura Bennett, Director, Nova Scotia Museum

“Pjila’si is more than a tribute to the past – it’s about celebrating the strength, resilience and enduring spirit of the Mi’kmaw people. This exhibit is here to spark meaningful connections, deepen understanding and inspire a future built on respect and collaboration. As the government, we are incredibly proud to have worked together to bring these stories to life, ensuring this rich history is not only remembered but shared and preserved for generations to come.”
— Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Canadian Heritage

Quick Facts:

• the exhibit was funded by the Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage, the Support4Culture program and the federal government
• the Museum of Natural History offers Nova Scotians and visitors an engaging and interactive way to learn about the province’s natural and cultural heritage
• it is located at 1747 Summer St., Halifax
• the Mi’kmaw advisory group was created to lead the exhibit process and consists of Mi’kmaw historians, educators and cultural leaders; they will continue to advise the museum on programs and the future use of the exhibit space

Additional Resources:

Pjila’si exhibit: https://naturalhistory.novascotia.ca/what-see-do/permanent-exhibits/pjilasi

 

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