#land of dawn

Jean-Philippe Thibault, LJI Journalist

FORILLON – The Micmac Nation of Gespeg and Parks Canada have been working closely since 2020 to develop traditional Mi’gmaq accommodation. Both parties want to offer visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in Forillon National Park. This will be possible starting next year.
The Um’tgi Wapg – Land of Dawn project was officially inaugurated on August 8. Five wigwams with a total capacity of 17 beds, have been erected at Cap-Bon-Ami, opposite the campsite of the same name, at the entrance to the first car park. These will be available for rent beginning in 2026 for overnight stays.

What’s more, visitors will discover Mi’gmaq history, legends, cultural practices and spirituality through educational activities such as dreamcatcher and traditional basket making. Artifacts found in Penouille and reconstructed will also be on display.

“Guests will be able to learn about the culture of the Mi’gmaq Nation,” explains Chief Céline Cassivi. “It’s more than a tourist site, it’s a living tribute to the memory, knowledge and spirituality of the Mi’gmaq. Visitors will discover our worldview. I am particularly proud of this announcement. It is a place of remembrance, but also a place that looks to the future.”

In addition to five wigwams for accommodation, another longhouse-shaped building has been constructed as a reception centre. The project is described by many as unique in the province.

“It showcases Mi’gmaq culture in the Gaspé Peninsula by promoting appropriate and authentic tourism. As far as I can remember, this is the first time there has been such a wonderful collaboration between Parks Canada and an Indigenous community. Something this structured in a national park is a first,” says Patricia Auclair, Acting Executive Director of Indigenous Tourism Quebec.
Last year, Ottawa signed a 25-year shared governance framework between Gespeg and Parks Canada to carry out joint projects in Forillon, while promoting Mi’gmaq cultural heritage.

Although the idea for the project dates back well before this agreement, it is a concrete step in that direction. “This agreement allows us to move forward together toward a more inclusive management approach where Gespeg’s voice is fully heard, recognized and valued,” notes Hugues Michaud, Executive Director for Quebec and Nunavut at Parks Canada.

It should be noted that the chosen site is a symbolic place for sun ceremonies, as it pays tribute to the thousand-year history of the Mi’gmaq people who inhabit it. The first Mawiomi was held there in 2017.

Um’tgi Wapg – Land of Dawn is expected to be open on the same dates as Forillon National Park. Three jobs will be created in Gespeg. “This is in line with the agreement’s objectives to create economic development opportunities. It’s one of the main focuses, and we’re very proud of it,” said Matthieu Côté, director of Parks Canada’s Gaspé Peninsula Management Unit.

Ottawa has invested $185,000 in the project, which is estimated to cost a total of more than $500,000. The site was designed and built by members of Gespeg, including Martin Jean-Dubé, who is also a commercial fisherman for the Nation and who worked alongside his crew.

“I had already seen how it was done and how it worked at the Pointe-Navarre site. I started from there with that knowledge and questions for the elders. It’s a modern version, but with a traditional feel. I’m very proud of it, since the project was started by my mother, who was a councillor in 2015.”
His mother, Johanne Jean, explains that she launched the idea 10 years ago, when she was a councillor. She has also been an employee of the Gespeg Micmac Interpretation Site since 1993.
“We want to give visitors an authentic and unique Indigenous experience. Our guides will share our stories and tales. Thank you for taking the time to discover our culture, listen to it and experience it,” she concludes.