One of the MFNERC’s overall goals is the revitalization, preservation and promotion of First Nations Languages.
Elder Ruth Norton speaks about the Ojibway Historical Perspective on Language at the Dakota and Ojibway Language Gathering in Brandon, MB, Jan. 23.
Our Languages and Culture Program organizes many gatherings that are held around the province, throughout the year. These two-day events focus on discussion of the languages and culture including development of a strategy for language immersion. As well they are opportunities for community representatives (education leaders and Elders) to come together, network and develop processes and strategies for language revitalization.
For example, at a recent gathering in Brandon, topics included: Dakota and Ojibway Historical Perspectives on the Language; The Importance of the Cultural Perspective; as well as discussions on “What do you have currently in your community that supports language acquisition?”, “What are some of the current resources that can be utilized to enhance language and cultural programming?” and “How can we implement programs now to save the language and culture?”
Other gatherings coming up include:
Cree Language Gathering The Pas, MB Jan. 24&25
Ojibway and Cree Language Gathering Gimli, MB Jan. 29&30
Dene and Cree Language Gathering Thompson, MB Feb. 12&13
Ojibway Language Gathering Brokenhead First Nation Feb. 25-26
Island Lake Language Gathering Winnipeg, MB March 6-7
For more information on these events contact:
Vera Mitchell, Language Program Manager
veram@mfnerc.com
Wendy Moussesu, Dakota and Ojibway Child and Family Services Cultural Worker, gives a powerful presentation on how critical it is to integrate our cultural ways into our teachings, at the Dakota and Ojibway Language Gathering in Brandon, MB, Jan. 23.
