Language Table and Master/Apprentice Program

The project goal is to enhance the Ojibwe language skills of the Minisinaakwaang young people interested in learning and carrying on the traditions of the community. This initiative will increase the number of young people using the language and ensuring that our ceremonies are conducted in the Ojibwe language. The grantees approach connects the first language speakers of the Minisinaakwaang community with the Ojibwe language apprentices that have made an investment in their ceremonies. The first language speakers will guide the process of selecting the specific ceremonies hat need to be passed on to the next generation. This project will focus on the "Anishinaabeg Life-Cycle Ceremony" an Ojibwe model that contains specific ceremonies and teachings for the apprentices to learn. Apprentices will attend the ceremonies with their mentors as they share their knowledge of the teachings in the Ojibwe language. The Ojibwe language objectives to be accomplished during this project include (1) Connecting a first language speaker with one of the Ojibwe language apprentices on a weekly basis in an immersion setting; (2) Language apprentices will participate in seasonal ceremonies; (3) apprentices will work together on written language activities to enhance their Ojibwe writing abilities; (4) Apprentices will meet with the project coordinator to review progress; and (5) apprentices will attend Elder gatherings, and attend all Elder guided activities.