Gold Cup Parade Marshal talks Canada 150, reconciliation

Chief Brian Francis of the Abegweit First Nation will be leadingFriday's Gold Cup Parade in Charlottetown.

• Chief Brian Francis to lead the Gold Cup Parade

He is excited, he said on CBC P.E.I.'s Compass Thursday, and has been practicing his smile and wave.

"I'm quite honoured actually to be part of the parade," Francis said. "I think it's a very positive step in terms of creating awareness of our Mi'kmaq people on P.E.I."

The theme for the parade this year is is "Canada, Eh!" a tribute to Canada 150.

He said he is proud to represent Mi'kmaqpeople, and is excited the parade selected and Indigenous leader to be marshal.

Proud of progress

"When I think back, this probably wouldn't have happened decades ago, maybe even a few years ago," he said."But the fact that it's happening now is a sign that not only our province, but our country, is starting to move forward in terms of creating that awareness and reconciliation of Indigenous people."

When I think of Canada 150 I also think ofMi'kmaq14,000 Brian Francis

He said while Canada 150 celebrates confederation, he will keep in mind the much longer history of Indigenous people in Canada.

"I see it as a celebration of Confederation, and when I think of Canada 150 I also think of Mi'kmaq14,000," he said."That's how far we can trace our roots back."

The parade begins at 10 a.m. on North River Road.

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