Gaelic Narrative Project
Past visits
Winter 2023 online
We asked Gaels what matters to them about their people, language and culture. Together we listened for the stories we want more of, including those that have been hidden or silenced. We heard from Mi’kmaw neighbours, Gaelic tradition bearers, language advocates, fiddlers, community weavers, and hosts making an extra effort to ensure that all community members feel welcome and included.
Meet the guests, hear our stories, watch the recordings
Summer 2022 in person
For the Gaelic Narrative Project team, summer was time to get offline, into the community and onto the land. We went looking for less visible narratives related to Gaelic language and culture, and we were also keen to visit our Mi’kmaw neighbours—to learn, share culture and get to know each other more.
To find out what we learned, read this blog.
Cultural tour at the Skye River Trail
On a beautiful day in late August 2022, the team from the Skye River Trail in the Mi’kmaw community of We'koqma'q, Unama'ki (Cape Breton) generously hosted Gaels and others for an afternoon of cultural exchange. We learned about the traditional game of Waltes and the beauty and variety of Mi’kmaw baskets. We tasted restorative berry teas, identified medicinal plants growing near the river, and enjoyed a delicious feast. We came together in a large circle and learned Mi’kmaw dances and songs, shared some Gaelic tunes, and exchanged gifts. At the closing, Elder Susan Prosper spoke to the circle, saying that now it was up to all of us to share stories of learning and friendship from this day, and to carry that spirit forward. Many of us left feeling that this visit had been a highlight of our summer.
Many thanks to the Municipality of Inverness County for their kind support.
Winter 2022 online
We explored the Gaelic word gu leór, which means both "enough” and “plenty.” Many thanks to everyone who generously shared their stories, songs and insights.
Special moments
Produced by Liam MacDonald
What we left with
In our last visit, on February 25, we all reflected on moments that stayed with us—moments of surprise, joy, or renewed connection and commitment. We also talked about moments that brought home the recognition that there wasn’t always “enough,” whether it was support for the next generation of language learners or the basic needs of our Mi’kmaw neighbours.
Listen to reflections from the Gaelic Narrative Project team.
Read all the reflections from the chat stream.
Come on inside, join each visit
Meet the guests, hear our stories, watch the recordings
Spring 2021online
Special moments
Come on inside, join each visit
Meet the guests, hear our stories, watch the recordings
Thanks to our partner!
Air Chéilidh is supported by the Office of Gaelic Affairs, Province of Nova Scotia, through the Department of Culture, Communities and Heritage and the Support4Culture program.
March 10, 2023. We explore the gifts we give and receive in the act of re-membering our mentors, ancestors, language, songs, stories, history and traditions. Host: Shannon MacMullin.