I dedicate this project to my Uncle Danny, whose life left a profound impact across Mi’kma’ki. Through this work, I hope to honor his memory and continue the legacy he built with dedication, love, and wisdom.
In Memory of
Daniel J. Paul
Danny was a respected Elder, pipe carrier, and knowledge keeper of Mi’kmaq culture and traditions. His teachings and practices embodied the true spirit of Netukulimk, guiding others to live sustainably and respectfully with the land.
The Ancient Agreement
In this video, Danny retells the story of the ancient agreement between animals and humans: how humans are meant to live on Mother Earth. He emphasizes that everything taken from nature must be used respectfully and in a good way, honoring what has been given. Danny reminds us that everything in nature is alive, has a spirit, and must be treated with respect. This story beautifully illustrates the meaning of Msit No’kmaq—“all our relations”—and the reciprocal connection between humans and nature.
Palmu Ceremony
Danny spent much time fishing on the Margaree River and deeply understood the importance of our relationship with Plamu (Atlantic Salmon). He played an integral role by leading the annual Salmon Ceremony on the beautiful banks of the Margaree River. In his honour, UINR renamed the ceremony the Daniel J. Paul Memorial Ceremony.
Tiam Hunt
Danny was a true practitioner of Netukulimk and understood the importance of sharing his teachings with youth. Over the years, he mentored countless youth, teaching them to hunt, fish, and gather respectfully, with ceremony and prayer. Danny also held an annual moose camp for youth in Membertou. In his honour, the camp has been renamed the Danny Paul Memorial Membertou Youth Hunt.
Honouring Danielle and Micah
On March 10, 2019, tragedy struck when Ethiopian Airlines Flight ET 302 crashed, claiming the lives of 18 Canadians, among them four members of the Canada Service Corps family. Danielle Moore, Micah Messent, Angela Rehhorn and Stephanie Lacroix were en route to Nairobi to attend the United Nations Environment Assembly when the accident occurred. They had been chosen by the United Nations Association in Canada (UNAC) to represent the Canada Service Corps youth delegation at the UNEA.
Two of those lost, Danielle and Micah, were members of the 2018 Ocean Bridge ambassadors. Danielle and Micah were exceptional individuals whose passion for making a positive difference in the world was an inspiration to many and they were excited to share their Ocean Bridge experiences with their international peers at UNEA.
Danielle Moore made an indelible impact during her time with Ocean Bridge, inspiring her peers with her positive energy and tireless dedication to making a difference.
Danielle organized two educational programs for an immersive service expedition in Vancouver, including the Ocean Literacy through an Indigenous Lens project. She also led a successful coding camp, using technology to engage youth in marine conservation and encourage their involvement in Canada Learning Code.
In addition to these accomplishments, Danielle made significant contributions to her local community, organizing a Conservation 101 field trip for underserved youth and volunteering with Waterlution to bring the Great Canoe Journey program to classrooms across the prairies. Danielle was also instrumental in creating a safe space for her cohort in Haida Gwaii, facilitating discussions around sustainability and privilege.
Through her projects and relationships, Danielle touched the future and left an enduring legacy at Ocean Bridge. Her infectious optimism and unwavering commitment to positive change continue to inspire and motivate us all.
Micah Messent was a passionate advocate for environmental stewardship and cultural diversity. Of Cree, Haudenosaunee, and Metis descent, Micah was dedicated to building bridges between different communities and encouraging youth involvement in ocean conservation and climate change action.
Micah’s leadership and organizational skills were on full display during his time with Ocean Bridge. He developed a Cross Stewardship Sector Inter-generational Networking Night in partnership with the Robert Bateman Centre in Victoria, British Columbia, creating a safe space to discuss challenges and successes in personal environmental stewardship journeys, and inspiring the next generation of environmental leaders.
In Haida Gwaii, Micah demonstrated his commitment to environmental stewardship by organizing shoreline cleanups and gathering thousands of pounds of marine debris. He also quietly ensured that his fellow volunteers were comfortable and happy at camp, teaching them to chop wood, cook fresh crab, and build campfires while filling the room with laughter.
Micah’s contributions to Ocean Bridge were invaluable, and his dedication to making a difference will continue to inspire us all.
Learn more about Danielle and Micah at https://ocean.org/blog/honouring-danielle-and-micah/
Mijipjewey Ta'n Wejiaq Apaqtuk 