ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines relations between humans and other animals in the lives of L’nuk (also called the Mi’kmaq), the Indigenous people of Mi’kma’ki. L’nuwey spiritualities frame humans and other animals as beings with spirit who have a connection to Kisúlkw (the Creator). Traditional teachings portray animals as our siblings and depict them as similar to human beings. Some L’nuwey stories describe animals as guides, protectors, or friends to humans, and this view of animals is expressed in the phrase M’sit No’kmaq, which means “all my relations.” L’nuwey values, such as netukulimk, limit the killing of animals to situations in which food is needed for survival and require that the L’nuk demonstrate respect for animals. Values such as respect and netukulimk are embedded in hunting protocols, culture, and activism to protect animals and their ecosystems. Under colonial occupation, relations with animals have ruptured, but also endured and reemerged.
