Page 23 - Chippewas of Rama First Nation

Language

One way to transmit language
is through song. Here, young
people share traditional
songs at a school concert.

Although we have a rich traditional background and a strong
connection to our language and culture, in our community, the
Anishinaabe language, Anishinaabemowin, is used fluently
mostly by the people who are older. However, there are a
handful of younger people who are working hard to gain fluency.

Those who speak the language say that Rama’s words and
WORDS TO KNOW
way of speaking are different from nearby Georgina Island
Anishinaabemowin
and Christian Island. People from those communities tell us (a-nish-na-bay-moe-in):
that we sound like we have a singsong way of talking. Though the name of the
Anishinaabe language
Anishinaabemowin has a good chance of surviving, there is
immersion: a way of teaching
concern that soon our Rama way of talking will soon pass.
a second language where
students mostly hear and speak
Most of us speak English on a daily basis, although we know
that language
some words and phrases in Anishinaabemowin. We speak
Mnjikaning Kendaaswin: place
English primarily because now we spend most of our lives of learning
in English-speaking settings. We use the English language
in our homes and in our schools. Many young people learn
Anishinaabemowin in classroom settings much like other
students in Ontario learn French. Anishinaabemowin classes are
an important part of the Mnjikaning Kendaaswin Elementary
School (MKES) program. Those who are gaining fluency spend
time outside of the classroom with original speakers and in
immersion programs.

Chippewas of Rama First Nation 21

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