"Yes, Edward Cornwallis founded Halifax. And he did really terrible things to my people. It's important to understand that." Rebecca Thomas gives an incredible keynote on "yes, and". Play video Live at #JackSummit: Rebecca Thomas Rebecca Thomas is a Mi'kmaw woman, activist, and Halifax’s first Indigenous poet laureate. As poet laureate, Rebecca shares her Mi'kmaq culture, voice, and experience, while being fearless and unapologetic. As a spoken word artist, she's organized workshops and volunteered with the Halifax Youth Slam Team. Rebecca believes poetry can elevate the power of culture, public discourse and help people heal.