There is a huge loss of language within Ojibwe culture from when the elders were much younger (such as 40 years ago) to our generation now. It was one of the many losses within our culture that has been the hardest to try and bring back. 

New Pendulum on the Pow Wow Grounds

Our elders were given teachings, traditions, and beliefs all within our Ojibwe language. When they were put into the residential schools, they were forced to not speak Ojibwe anymore, but instead to speak English. Because of that loss, our generation and future generations have not learned the language, as there were no classes or elders who were teaching. However, there has been some activity in Indigenous language education; resources are listed at the bottom of this article.

Ceiling in the Band Office at WFN

I wish we could learn our Ojibwe language, so we can have that full understanding of who we are as people, as well as our words for readings, songs, and to be able to understand the meaning behind every word. 

Our native tongue gives us a little part of who we are as individuals, as well as a community as a whole. I would love for my daughter to be taught our beliefs, traditions, and songs in our language. This would give her a chance to widen her heart and soul into the culture in which is her heritage line. My daughter was told by an elder that she marches to the beat of the drumming, so naturally that is within her soul at such a young age. 

My Daughter Mackenzie and I

Most reserves do not hold classes or teachings in our language. This is a huge loss for future generations, as our language will forever be gone and not spoken. 

This is only one issue within the indigenous communities that has been proven that our Elders hold the power of knowledge held for many years and passed on through the generations—and that the loss is huge. 

Elder of WFN and Family

If we were given the chance once again to be taught our Ojibwe language from our Elders, it would give us the understanding and complete serenity into how strong our culture is still alive today within our communities. 

Water at the Pow Wow Grounds
 
Now, there are many Ojibwe language courses available for anyone to join or attend to try and learn the Ojibwe language. Being taught by your Elders is where the teachings of your community come from, which are the keyholders to ancestors.

Please see the listings on where to find an indigenous language course in the Sudbury, Ontario Region:
https://laurentian.ca/indigenous-student-affairs/language-learning
https://laurentian.ca/indigenous-programs/anishinaabemowin-language
https://www.sudburycatholicschools.ca/indigenous-education/indigenous-education/
https://www.rainbowschools.ca/programs/indigenous-education/
https://commissionforindigenouslanguages.ca/accredited-programs-in-indigenous-languages
https://cambriancollege.ca/programs/general-arts-and-science-indigenous-specialization
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/sudbury/language-animated-series-anishinaabemowin-1.7305614

Melissa Stone is from Wahnapitae First Nation in Sudbury, Ontario. She is a kind-hearted, gentle soul who wants the best for everyone around her. Melissa’s biggest blessing she was given in life, is having her daughter Mackenzie. She is striving to excel in school and better herself. Melissa enjoys scrapbooking, doing crafts, and reading. She wants to learn all about her indigenous culture and to help everyone and anyone who needs it.

All photos courtesy and copyright Melissa Stone