At Fanshawe College, new program helps revive Indigenous language
It’s been at least 30 years since the Ojibway community Chippewas of the Thames had a resident whosemother tongue was the tribe’s Indigenous language.
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It’s been at least 30 years since the Ojibway community Chippewas of the Thames had a resident whose mother tongue was the tribe’s Indigenous language.
Hoping to bring the language, known as Anishinaabemowin, to more people, it’s now being taught in the community through a program being offered by Fanshawe College for the first time.
“We’re in a time where we want to revitalize our language and our culture,” said Monty McGahey, who teaches the program and has taught the language on the reserve since 2015.
The program, called Paswe’aatigook Anishinaabemowin language foundations, is in the middle of its first year, he said.
Through the program, 17 students learn to speak and understand the language, as well as learn about traditional values and culture.
“It’s been a long time since we heard language in our community,” McGahey said. “We’re trying to build (up) those numbers. Hopefully this program will push that and help us”
There are students at different stages of learning the language, he said. “Some are getting there and some people on the brink of being proficient.”
McGahey, one of two people in his Indigenous community who is proficient in the language, grew up unable to speak it or knowing anyone in his family who did. He began to study the language as an adult.
His 17 students all want to learn it because “it’s their language and a part of being who we are.”
Some will go on to teach it, he said.
The Anishinaabemowin language program is one of five new Fanshawe programs being highlighted at an open house Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Other new programs include artificial intelligence and machine learning, occupational health and safety management, Oneida language immersion and quality assurance management.
The open house allows students to explore Fanshawe at its London campuses, as well as campuses in Clinton, Simcoe, St. Thomas, Tiverton and Woodstock.
Visit https://openhouse.fanshawec.ca for more information.
