New Kehewin language program opens to help preserve Plains Cree language

A groundbreaking initiative has been launched to preserve Plains Cree, a dialect of the Cree language, through an immersive language program inspired by First Nations traditions. The program, known as a “language nest,” creates a non-classroom environment where fluent Plains Cree-speaking elders and knowledge keepers engage with children to help them learn the language during their formative years.

The Kakewetotamak Kinehiyawinaw Language Nest recently celebrated its grand opening on Dec. 18 in the Kehewin Cree Nation, located 235 kilometers northeast of Edmonton. The name of the language nest, which translates to “bringing our language home,” reflects its mission to revitalize the Cree language within the Kehewin community.

Melissa Paul, the Cree language revitalization developer for the language nest, emphasized the importance of language in preserving the identity and culture of the community. “Without language, we won’t have culture. So, it’s very important to keep that up and maintain it, and start it while they’re young,” Paul explained. She highlighted the language nest’s immersive approach, where only Cree is spoken within its walls, encouraging participants to leave the English language outside.

Elissa Gadwa, coordinator for the nest, drew inspiration from the Maori people, who pioneered the concept of language nests. After visiting New Zealand and witnessing the success of the Maori language nests, the team sought to bring a similar program to Kehewin. In addition to children’s programming, Cree language and cultural classes will be offered in the evenings for adults in the community.

Janine Chesworth, a speech pathologist and researcher for Kehewin’s Language Revitalization Project, explained that language nests originated as a grassroots effort by Maori families to immerse children in their language from a young age. By creating an immersive setting akin to a cooperative daycare, children are able to absorb the language naturally and develop an Indigenous worldview.

Unlike traditional immersion school programs, the Kehewin language nest aims to foster a broader community movement around language revitalization. Chesworth stressed the importance of engaging the community to create a sustainable language community. With funding from Heritage Canada, the language nest program is set to operate for up to five years, supporting the goal of increasing Cree fluency in Kehewin.

Paul underscored the significance of the language nest in empowering the next generation to speak Cree with confidence and pride. “We need our language to know our identity,” she stated. “We want to revitalize what was lost and bring it back.” By nurturing the Plains Cree language through initiatives like the language nest, the Kehewin community is taking proactive steps towards preserving their cultural heritage for generations to come.