The Chauvet cave painting above is among the first known art in the world. We think of it as the birth of culture and civil society. Humanity reflecting on its own practices. A history of civil society would, therefore, be a history of civilization.
The Institute is dedicated to the renewal of civil society. Its own contribution is made through its commitment to research and education. Our work is currently organized around various projects in public history, social organization, and adult education.
John Baptist Denny Jr. (1851-1918) was the last hereditary Grand Chief of the Mi’kmaw Grand Council. A devout Catholic and a man of great spirituality, Denny was respected throughout Nova Scotia. Born in Eskasoni, Cape Breton, he spoke several languages, including Mi’kmaw, French and Gaelic. A tough negotiator, he was an early advocate for indigenous treaty rights. Upon his death, he was replaced by the first elected Grand Chief, Gabriel Sylliboy.
