A treaty scholar, Indigenous advocate, and environmental activist, Kevin was also a storyteller and contrarian who shared knowledge rooted in treaties and sacred prophecies. He loved hiking, mountain biking, writing, football season and poker nights with family.
Kevin was born in Sydney to his late parents Ruth (Paul) Christmas and Bernard Christmas. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Wendy (Morrison) Christmas, and their daughter, Lisa Christmas. Also left to mourn are his sisters Johanna (Keith) Laporte, Bernadette Christmas, Diana (Katy) Christmas, Paula (Mark) Sevestre, and Ruth (Farid) Christmas, and his brother Dean (late Colleen) Christmas. He was predeceased by his brothers Gary Michael Christmas and Bradley Thomas Christmas.
The late 1980s and early 1990s were a dynamic time for First Nations in Nova Scotia—with the Simon case and the 1989 Royal Commission on the Donald Marshall Jr. Prosecution Final Report. Kevin loved being on the periphery of change: attending the first Treaty Day at the legislature in Halifax, engaging in treaty rights issues across the Atlantic, and contributing to justice and economic development reform. He was steadfast in his support of the fishers. He cherished the opportunity to negotiate those early fishing agreements that put boats in the water and developed professional fishers.
Kevin was instrumental in developing the National Committee on Treaties at the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), which, though short-lived, left a lasting impact. He also helped establish the Treaty and Aboriginal Rights Research Centre (TARR Centre) in Shubenacadie. In 2013, he joined the Nova Scotia Independent Panel on Hydraulic Fracking, contributing to the moratorium on fracking in Mi’kma’ki.
Kevin will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to justice, his deep knowledge of treaty rights, and his generous spirit.
Kevin encountered so many exceptional healthcare professionals during his illness. Too many to mention. The family wishes to thank the team at the Membertou Health Centre and the Palliative Care team and Kevin’s nurse, Brett Gillis. Special thanks to Kevins therapy cat, Lacey, who took the night shifts.
Visitation will take place starting at 7pm on Sunday, June 8 at his residence 168 Membertou Street, Membertou. A Funeral Service will be held at St Marguerite Bourgeoys Church, 40 Cabot St., on Tuesday, June 10 at 1pm. Interment to take place in Membertou Memorial Gardens with a Salite following at the Membertou Trade and Convention Centre. For those unable to attend the service, it can be viewed by visiting twcurry.com.
