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Language kept alive during Sasiwaans “Step Up Celebration”
7/7/2015 9:00:00 AM - Anishinaabe Language Revitalization Department

Natalie Shattuck, Editor 

The Anishinaabe Language Revitalization Department works diligently to keep the language alive. On June 9, ALRD presented the Sasiwaans “Step Up Celebration” to acknowledge and honor the students during the Eagles Nest Tribal Gym commemoration.

            Misty Pelcher, interim language apprentice, offered a welcoming and Isabelle Osawamick, language outreach specialist, provided a prayer.

            Naanooshksag (Little Humming Birds) toddlers, Megisiisag (Little Eagles) 2 year olds and Pichiinsag (Little Robins) 3 year olds classrooms performed and the students were recognized.

            Maangoonsag (Little Loons) and Chiijaakoonsag (Little Cranes) 4 and 5 year olds also performed and received honor feathers and awards.

            At Sasiwaans, the primary language instructors and fluent speakers are Pat Osawamick, Margaret Flamand, Danita Mandamin, Edward Trudeau and Carol Bob. The secondary language instructors are Yvette Pitawanakwat, Larry Kimewan, Carrie Herron (interim) and Carrie Wemigwans (interim).

            Language apprentices are Jenna Davis (interim), Alicia Dudek, Jacqueline Ortiz, Misty Pelcher (interim) and Summer Raphael.

            Maangoonsag and Chiijaakoonsag performed an honor song, and Interim ALRD Director Angela Peters gave her closing remarks.

            The ceremony ended with a blessing of the miijim – Naanooshkaasag style.

 

             


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