George “Sky Blue Eagle” Paul

Mi’gmaq Elder George Paul of Metepenagiag First Nation is recognized worldwide as the composer of the Mi’gmaq Honour Song. The origin of the song, and of Elder George’s spirit name, Sky Blue Eagle, can be traced back to the late 1970s. George went into the woods for a four-day fast in search of spiritual guidance. A close encounter with an eagle. Gitpo, a sacred relation in Mi’gmaq culture inspired him on his quest to encourage pride in First Nations traditions. Pride was what he wanted for his Mi’gmaq people who had forgotten their history, losing their dignity as a people and their traditional practices. He had a song to sing. There is a spirit that moves with the song. That spirit became the resurgence of powwows in Mi’gmaq territory and across Turtle Island. Today Elder George’s song is a staple at powwows and all other gatherings and sung to honour individuals. It has been truly his gift to his people and all Canadians