One Man's Journey: The Mi’kmaw Revival in Ktaqmkuk

by Calvin White

With a story spanning over seventy years of the life of respected Elder Calvin White, One Man’s Journey weaves personal history with White’s account of the Mi’kmaw movement and his role in the reclamation and restoration of pride in Mi’kmaw culture in Newfoundland.

Elder White’s journey began in the forests surrounding his home of Flat Bay, where he learned to fish, hunt, and gather from a group of respected mentors who influenced and inspired him. His story recounts how the lessons learned from these valuable moments fueled his later work to spearhead the Mi’kmaw movement throughout the island of Newfoundland, amid the fight for recognition by the provincial and federal governments. His words do not shy away from the prejudice and discrimination faced by his people, and they provide a personal account of the history, responsibilities, philosophy, and worldview of his community.

One Man’s Journey is a personal and critical look at the processes that have led to the recognition of Mi’kmaw people in Newfoundland. The book shares knowledge and history with a new generation so they can continue the movement to which Elder White has been so instrumental.

Genres: Nonfiction, Indigenous

194 pages, Paperback

Published June 15, 2023

Reviews

[Ian · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a powerful and compelling message. I am so thankful for the history, wisdom and reflections that is given by the author. As one of the descendants in Western Newfoundland, thank you for your courage and dedication to keeping the history alive.

[Caley Brennan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elder Calvin White is a hero for his hard work and contributions towards the recognition of the Mi’kmaw people of western Newfoundland and this engaging memoir is a fascinating read steeped in culture and history. The early history of Flat Bay and Mi’kmaw life in the region an the subsequent Mi’kmaw revival ushered in by White and his allies is covered in great detail and the book also offers valuable insight into the formation of the controversial “landless” Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation in Newfoundland. Woven throughout the historical accounts is White’s own life story and experiences growing up in Flat Bay and how he came to answer the call for Indigenous justice. This was an eye-opening and enjoyable read and I’m so glad I read it.