Membership

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS OF NSWC

TO APPLY FOR A NEW MEMBERSHIP:

1) Complete and send your application form and a total of $140 to NSWC ($100 – one-time fee applicable to each new member, $20 - annual membership dues and $20 card processing fee)

Cheques and money orders must be in Canadian dollars. Make payable to Nova Scotia Wampanoag Council.

2) Attach four recent colour photos (1” x 1.25” – the size of a driver’s license – passport photos will not be accepted as they are too big)

3) Attach a copy of your genealogical information. See Genealogy page.

4) Attach a copy of your long form birth certificate.

Please Note: Current members should pay their $20 annual dues by January 1st of the coming year.

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TO APPLY FOR A CARD RENEWAL:

When card renewals are required, this will be the process.

1) Send four recent small colour photos (1” x 1.25” – the size of a driver’s license)

2) If you have outstanding dues, you must pay them plus $20 for the new card before it can be sent.

3) If you have lost your new card you will have to pay $20 for a replacement.

 

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Membership is open to all individuals of Wampanoag ancestry in the following categories:

Registered Member - Under 14 years of age, whether or not a resident of Nova Scotia

Associate Member - 14 years of age and older, whether or not a resident of Nova Scotia

Full Membership - 18 years of age and older, has been either a registered member or an associate member for at least three years, and a resident of Nova Scotia

A membership approval requires:

• meeting the genealogical requirements of NSWC;

• self-identification as Nova Scotia Wampanoag;

• acceptance by the Nova Scotia Wampanoag community

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What is the Certificate of Aboriginal Status that is issued by the Nova Scotia Wampanoag Council?

It is a membership card signifying that you are a Nova Scotia Wampanoag. It is an identification card signifying that you are a person of Wampanoag ancestry and under the Canada Constitution Act, 1982 should have all the rights, opportunities, and privileges accorded to aboriginal people.  This card is used as an identification card for purposes such as:

• Employment (some employers ask for proof of aboriginal ancestry to qualify for employment equity programs)

• Education (some institutions ask for proof of aboriginal ancestry to qualify for aboriginal-specific bursaries, scholarships, and programs)

• Procurement (a portion of government services contracts are reserved for aboriginal people and companies and require proof of aboriginal ancestry)

The Nova Scotia Wampanoag Council membership card does not entitle the holder to the tax-exempt purchase of goods or services. Members must not attempt to use their membership cards for fraudulent purposes.