Keeping the Cree language alive in Saskatchewan

The Cree language in Saskatchewan carries deep cultural, spiritual, and identity significance, preserving the heritage of Indigenous peoples who endured the hardships of residential schools. Efforts to ensure the language is passed down to future generations are underway, led by elders and Indigenous leaders who strive to instill the essence of their native tongue.

One such event, the Keep Our Language Alive (KOLA) conference, brings people together to work on these objectives in a shared space. Milton Tootoosis, founder of the KOLA convention, emphasizes that the loss of cultural identity has left many people adrift. Describing himself as immersed in the English-dominated mainstream culture in Saskatchewan, Tootoosis underscores the significance of teaching the language to the youth, especially in institutions, schools, and technology.

Buckley Belanger, Secretary of State for Rural Development and KOLA Speaker, highlights the need to teach the value of learning Cree or Dene, aiming to keep the language alive. A young Cree teacher, Vernon Lewis, has developed an app to aid language learning. Titled "How do you say this in Cree," the app enables users to input phrases or words and receive answers in Cree. The app avoids being a mere dictionary, instead focusing on practical phrases to help users understand how to employ the language effectively.

To encourage further support, the elders stress the importance of politicians and government officials learning the Cree language. Sturgeon Lake elder Willie Ermine asserts that learning the language offers insights into identity, purpose, and spirituality. He welcomes anyone interested in joining the efforts to promote good humanity through understanding the Cree language.