Aliant Presents Mik'maq Language Book with Anti-bullying Message (fwd)

[phil cash cash]

Aliant Presents Mik'maq Language Book with Anti-bullying Message
by Wire Services
Wednesday, 30 November 2005
http://www.halifaxlive.com/content/view/220/2/

Aliant President and CEO Jay Forbes today presented school children of
the Membertou First Nation, Cape Breton with a new Mik'maq language
book - Jo'jo the Bully.

Originally written in English by R.J. MacNeil, an Aliant employee in
Sydney, the book was first published in 2003 and distributed to schools
in Halifax. The book tells the story of a bully who has no friends
because they do not want to hang around with somebody who does not
respect others.
Earlier this year, Aliant began working with Dr. Bernard Francis,
Membertou's linguist, in the production of a Mik'maq version of the
book. The book has also been translated into French.

"I am very pleased with Aliant's involvement in this project. The
translation of Jo'jo the Bully into Mik'maq will assist parents,
teachers and law enforcement officers in dealing with bullying issues,"
said Jay Forbes, President and CEO of Aliant.

"Here in Membertou, we are committed to providing a safe, secure
environment," said Darren Googoo, Membertou Director of Education.
"Initiatives such as this, with its strong commitment to anti-bullying
will go a long way to helping stem violence and promote a strong
message of respect."

The inspiration to create this book grew from Aliant's partnership with
the Halifax Regional, Cape Breton, Kentville and New Glasgow police
departments to fight bullying by supporting anti-bullying hotlines. In
Cape Breton, two Community Police Officers share responsibility in
staffing the hotline (565-SAVE) seven days a week between 8am and 11
pm.