‘Changing the name of the community is far too important to do on our own’Published May 08, 2025 • Last updated 1 hour ago • 2 minute readWagmatcook First Nation has chosen to remain with its current name following a door-to-door community voting process to decide whether to adopt the traditional Mi’kmaq spelling. Photo by FILEWagmatcook First Nation has concluded a 10-day community voting process to decide whether to adopt the traditional Mi’kmaq spelling of the community name, Waqmɨtkuk. The vote followed an in-depth community engagement initiative aimed at ensuring that every member — both on and off-reserve — had the opportunity to participate in this important cultural conversation. The final vote count was: 72 in favour of adopting the traditional spelling: Waqmɨtkuk and 117 in favour of keeping the current spelling of Wagmatcook. THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY.Subscribe now to access this story and more:Unlimited access to the website and appExclusive access to premium content, newsletters and podcastsFull access to the e-Edition app, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment onEnjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalistsSupport local journalists and the next generation of journalistsSUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES.Subscribe or sign in to your account to continue your reading experience.Unlimited access to the website and appExclusive access to premium content, newsletters and podcastsFull access to the e-Edition app, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment onEnjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalistsSupport local journalists and the next generation of journalistsRegister to unlock more articles.Create an account or sign in to continue your reading experience.Access additional stories every monthShare your thoughts and join the conversation in our commenting communityGet email updates from your favourite authorsSign In or Create an AccountorArticle contentRead More Wagmatcook or Waqmitkuk? Cape Breton First Nation community explores name change ‘Move freely without fear’: Wagmatcook finalizing plans for an active transportation network The community of just over 600 people is the oldest permanent settlement of the Mi’kmaq Nation in Nova Scotia and nestles between the shores of the Bras d’Or Lakes on one side and the Cape Breton highlands on the other. Tourists drive through the community regularly when they visit Unama’ki (Cape Breton) and travel from the Canso Causeway further east across the island to Sydney. The idea to explore a name change came forward as part of a broader rebranding effort and as a gesture to strengthen the visibility of Mi’kmaq language and identity. Chief Norman Bernard, a strong advocate for community-led decision-making, insisted that such an important step could not be taken without clear direction from community members. Wagmatcook Chief Norman Bernard: “This was never just about a name.” Photo by File“Changing the name of the community is far too important to do on our own. We have to make sure we get as many votes as possible and ensure the community has a say in the decision,” said Bernard. Article contentTo ensure maximum participation, the process began with an online survey to gauge interest in a formal vote, which saw strong community response. From there, a door-to-door campaign was launched to reach elders and households directly, followed by an in-person polling day at the Wagmatcook Community Centre. Mail-in ballots were also made available for off-reserve members to ensure everyone had a voice. “This was never just about a name,” said Bernard. “It was about making space for our identity, our language, and our people — but doing so in a way that respects the will of our community. I’m proud of the respectful conversations this vote sparked, and even more proud of how our members came forward to participate.” While the majority voted to keep the current name of Wagmatcook, the dialogue around Mi’kmaq language, identity, and visibility will continue to shape future planning, communications and cultural initiatives. Article content
Wagmatcook votes status quo on name
