August is Acadian Heritage Month and Aug. 15 marks National Acadian Day, a time to honour the rich culture, resilience and history of Acadian people across the Atlantic provinces. In Nova Scotia, Acadian communities continue to thrive and shape the province’s identity through language, music, culinary traditions and enduring spirit.

Traumatic past
The history of Acadian people in Nova Scotia is deeply shaped by Le Grand Dérangement (the Acadian expulsion). This forced displacement was a traumatic event that led to the loss of communities, the disruption of cultural traditions and a weakening of the strong alliance between the Acadian and Mi’kmaw peoples in their resistance to British occupation.

Enduring resilience and culture
Despite these hardships, their cultural bonds remain deep rooted today and continue to influence both communities. At Doctors Nova Scotia (DNS), we recognize and celebrate the diversity and strength that Acadian communities bring to the healthcare system, our members and the fabric of Nova Scotia.

A personal reflection
We asked Debbie Traer, administrative coordinator at DNS, about growing up Acadian in Chéticamp:

Growing up in Chéticamp, immersed in Acadian culture among family, friends and all the folks in our hometown, meant being surrounded by a strong sense of community. A people of resilience, adaptability and hard-working character, Acadians have held onto these strengths as a way of life through the generations – lessons passed down from our ancestors. It’s in our nature to welcome strangers from all walks of life with open arms and a smile, to chat about where you’re from, offer a cup of tea and a biscuit or even a full feast of traditional cuisine, and lend a helping hand when someone’s in need. You’ll feel like part of the community whether you’re just passing through or setting down roots.

 We are blessed with deep musical roots and talents that keep us connected, both at home and afar – music that stirs a longing for home with just a familiar tune. And when we meet others from the many Acadian communities throughout Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, it’s like “old home week” – each speaking in our own dialect as if we’ve known each other forever. This is the village that raised my generation.

 If you ever walk by my desk and see me gazing into the distance, smiling to myself, earbuds in, tapping my foot, and enjoying some pâté à la viande acadienne (Acadian meat pie), don’t worry – I’ll be back in a Cape Breton minute. I’ve just gone home for a tasty treat and a tune.

Connection to Doctors Nova Scotia’s work
At DNS, we are committed to fostering inclusion and cultural safety in healthcare. Recognizing and celebrating the unique heritage and lived experiences of Acadian people is part of that commitment. From bilingual and rural healthcare advocacy to supporting our members serving Acadian communities, our work is stronger when it’s informed by cultural knowledge and care.

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