By: Alisa Arkhangelskaya
Indigenous people have fascinating histories, filled with rich tapestries of culture, language, and resilience that echo through the ages. Honouring these people from around the world, the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is celebrated on August 9th every year. MCIS Language Solutions joins the global community in celebrating the cultural presence of Indigenous peoples worldwide, with a special focus on the province of Ontario.
International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples
This significant day was first proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in December 1994 through Resolution 49/214. The date marks the inaugural meeting of the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations in 1982, highlighting the international community’s commitment to addressing the needs and rights of Indigenous peoples all over the world.
In Canada, the preservation of Indigenous languages and oral traditions is of immense importance. Our nation is home to over 70 Indigenous languages, belonging to 12 distinct language families. These languages are not merely means of communication; they are vessels of unique cultural knowledge, worldviews, and centuries-old wisdom passed down through generations.
Oral Traditions and Language Revitalization
The oral traditions of Canadian Indigenous peoples play a crucial role in preserving and transmitting cultural heritage. Stories, songs, and ceremonies serves as living archives of history, spirituality, and ecological knowledge. Despite historical challenges, these traditions have maintained cultural continuity and continue to be a source of resilience and identity for Indigenous communities today.
However, many Indigenous languages face the threat of extinction. It’s estimated that only about 15% of Indigenous people in Canada can converse in an Indigenous language, underscoring the urgent need for language revitalization efforts. First Nations communities across the country hold various events and traditions that are open to the public to revitalize their culture and languages.
The Challenge of Language Extinction
Unfortunately, many Indigenous languages in Canada are at risk of disappearing. Only about 15% of Indigenous people in Canada can speak an Indigenous language fluently, underscoring the need for urgent language revitalization efforts. Across Canada, First Nations communities are holding events and traditions to rejuvenate and celebrate their languages and cultures.
Cultural Events
If you are interested in partaking in some of the First Nations cultural celebrations throughout Canada, we have compiled a list:
1. Manito Ahbee Festival: Held in Manitoba, this festival celebrates Indigenous arts, culture, and music. It includes a Powwow, Indigenous marketplace, and music awards, typically taking place in May. It’s a vibrant celebration with activities that highlight Indigenous cultural expression.
2. imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival: Located in Toronto, Ontario, this festival is the world’s largest Indigenous film and media arts festival. It showcases innovative works by Indigenous artists and usually occurs in October. The festival provides a platform for storytelling and media that reflect Indigenous perspectives.
3. Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival (SSIF): Celebrated around June 21st in Ottawa, Ontario, this festival honors the summer solstice with Powwows, workshops on traditional practices, and performances of Indigenous music, dance, and arts.
4. Nogojiwanong Indigenous Fringe Festival (NIFF): This festival takes place in Peterborough, Ontario, and features performances by Indigenous artists in theatre and other performing arts. Typically hosted June, this festival offers a space for showcasing Indigenous talent and creative expression.
5. Misko-Aki: Confluence of Cultures: Held in Ontario, this event celebrates the contributions and talents of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples through theater, film, music, and science. The festival usually happens in the summer. It’s an opportunity to explore and engage with diverse Indigenous cultural expressions.
6. Back to Batoche Festival: Located in Batoche, Saskatchewan, this annual festival celebrates Métis culture with traditional games, music, and dance competitions. It usually takes place in July. It’s a significant event for celebrating Métis heritage and traditions.
7. Potlatch Ceremonies: Pacific Northwest First Nations communities, such as those in British Columbia, hold Potlatches—significant ceremonies featuring feasting, songs, dances, and gift-giving—during important life events. These ceremonies occur at various times throughout the year and are central to community life and cultural practice.
8. Powwows: Vibrant gatherings with traditional music, dance, regalia, and foods, Powwows happen across Canada. One of the largest is the N.I.C.E. Powwow in Edmonton, Alberta, and they are often held in the summer months. Powwows serve as both celebrations and opportunities for cultural exchange.
These festivals and ceremonies not only celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous peoples but also foster community engagement and mutual understanding among participants and attendees.
Indigenous Languages in Ontario
Indigenous languages in Ontario, Canada, are a testament to the rich cultural heritage and diversity of the First Nations communities in the region. These languages are integral to the identity and traditions of Indigenous peoples and play a crucial role in preserving their cultural heritage.
Indigenous Language Statistics in Ontario
Ontario’s Indigenous languages are a testament to the region’s rich cultural diversity. Here’s a closer look at some key statistics:
- Ojibway Languages: The most widely spoken Indigenous language in Ontario, with 14,535 speakers in 2021. However, this represents a decline of 6.5% from 2016. Ojibway languages are integral to many Indigenous communities and their cultural practices.
- Oji-Cree: The second most spoken Indigenous language, with 6,165 speakers. It saw a significant decline of 15.6% from 2016. Oji-Cree is a language with deep cultural and historical significance for its speakers.
- Cree Languages: The third most spoken Indigenous languages with 4,790 speakers, marking a decrease of 4.8% since 2016. Cree languages are central to various Indigenous cultures across Ontario.
- Mohawk, Cayuga, and Oneida: These languages have experienced varying levels of change; Mohawk speakers increased by 6.7%, Cayuga by 82.6%, and Oneida by 11.4% from 2016 to 2021. These languages reflect the dynamic nature of Indigenous linguistic landscapes.
- Anicinabemowin (Algonquin): Among the most vulnerable with only 120 speakers in 2021, a decline of 31.4% from 2016. Efforts to revitalize Anicinabemowin are crucial for preserving its cultural heritage.
These statistics were taken from Statistics Canada.
Language Preservation and Education
Ontario’s education system has incorporated seven Indigenous languages—Cayuga, Cree, Delaware, Mohawk, Ojibwe, Oji-Cree, and Oneida—into its curriculum. These languages are taught as subjects within English or French-medium schools, with specific programs designed to support First Nation, Métis, and Inuit cultures and languages.
The Ontario government has also taken legislative steps to support Indigenous languages. In a significant move, lawmakers in Ontario can now address the legislature using Indigenous languages, reflecting a growing recognition of these languages as foundational to the region.
MCIS Ontario Language Offerings
At MCIS, we recognize the critical role that language services play in supporting Indigenous communities and preserving their linguistic heritage. Our commitment to Indigenous languages is reflected in our comprehensive range of translation and interpretation services, including offerings in several Indigenous Ontario Languages. Since we are based in Toronto, Ontario, our language offerings include Cree, Inuktitut, Oji-Cree and Ojibway.
Our team of skilled interpreters and translators works tirelessly to ensure that Indigenous voices are heard and understood in various contexts – from healthcare and social services to legal proceedings and educational settings. By providing these essential services, we aim to bridge communication gaps and promote greater understanding and inclusivity in our diverse society.
As we commemorate this important day, we invite you to join us in recognizing the value of Indigenous languages and cultures. Here are a few ways you can make a difference:
- Learn about the Indigenous peoples and languages in your area.
- Support Indigenous-owned businesses and artists.
- Advocate for Indigenous language education in schools.
- Participate in local events celebrating Indigenous cultures.
At MCIS, we remain committed to supporting Indigenous languages and communities through our services. We believe that by preserving and promoting these languages, we are not only honoring the rich cultural heritage of Canada’s First Peoples but also contributing to a more inclusive and understanding society for all. If you are interested in using our translation and interpretation services for Indigenous languages spoken in Ontario, we currently have resources for four: Cree, Inuktitut, Oji-Cree, and Ojibway. Furthermore, if you are a language carrier of an Indigenous language feel free to look at our translation training programs. These certifications extend into other languages as well, consult our website to learn more.
Conclusion
On this International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, let’s celebrate the linguistic diversity that enriches our world and commit to ensuring that Indigenous voices continue to be heard, understood, and valued. Together, we can work towards a future where every language, every story, and every voice is respected and preserved.