How was Miawpukek Governed in the Past and Now?

THEN... According to the oral history of ancestors, Miawpukek became a permanent settlement around the early 1800’s. Prior to this, Miawpukek was a semi–camping site used by the Mi’kmaq who were at the time, still nomadic and traveling around. During this time, Miawpukek practiced our own form of Government.
Through research, it is noted that land was set aside as an Indian Settlement in 1870. However, Miawpukek First Nation was not officially recognized as a Indian Act reserve until 1987.

NOW... Miawpukek First Nation, like most First Nations are governed by the Indian Act Miawpukek elects Chief and Council which make decisions on their behalf and enact by–laws in a number of areas. However, Chief and Council are unable to pass laws in areas critical to the health and well–being of our community.
The Indian Act establishes a limited and dependent form of local administration that doesn’t take into account the specific circumstances of a community.