Benjamin Sylliboy facts for kids
Benjamin Kji Saqamaw Sylliboy (born March 2, 1941 – died November 30, 2017) was an important leader of the Miꞌkmaq people. He was known as a Grand Chief. He lived in the We’koqma’q First Nation community. This community is located on Cape Breton in Nova Scotia, Canada. He served as Grand Chief for 25 years. This was from 1992 until he passed away in 2017.
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Early Life and Education
Benjamin Sylliboy was born on March 2, 1941. He was born in the Mi'kmaq community of Whycocomagh on Cape Breton, Canada. When he was six years old, he went to a school away from his home for four years. After he returned to his community, he became very sick but recovered. Later, he attended a local school for Indigenous children. He also worked different jobs while continuing his education. He learned more through programs from the government department that supported Indigenous people.
Becoming a Leader
Benjamin Sylliboy became a leader in his community. In 1968, his community chose him as an ambassador, also called a Keptin. In 1970, he was elected as a councillor for his community. He served in this role for nine terms. This means he was a councillor for many years.
In 1992, the previous Grand Chief, Donald Marshall Sr., asked Benjamin Sylliboy to take over his role. Grand Chief Marshall was not well. So, Benjamin Sylliboy became the new Grand Chief. He served in this important position for 25 years.
Celebrating Miꞌkmaq Culture
Grand Chief Sylliboy worked hard to celebrate Miꞌkmaq culture. In 1993, he worked with the Premier of Nova Scotia, John Savage. Together, they announced that October would be a special month. It would be the official month to recognize and celebrate Miꞌkmaq culture and heritage in Nova Scotia.
He also played a big part in strengthening the role of the Miꞌkmaq Grand Council. The Grand Council is a very old and important governing body for the Miꞌkmaq people. Grand Chief Sylliboy helped the Grand Council focus on making sure the rights of Indigenous people and their treaty agreements were respected.
Passing Away
Benjamin Sylliboy passed away on November 30, 2017. He was 76 years old. He died in Sydney, Cape Breton.
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