SASKATOON, SASKATCHEWAN--(Marketwired - Oct. 27, 2014) - Department of Canadian Heritage

The Government of Canada is providing $29,536 in funding through the Aboriginal Languages Initiative to support beginner level Cree "Y" dialect language lessons for community members of all ages.

Maurice Vellacott, Member of Parliament (Saskatoon-Wanuskewin), made this announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

Quick Facts

• A total of 240 hours of lessons will be provided to 80 participants over a 24-week period.
• Participants will be introduced to Cree syllabics and will learn the language through cultural activities.
• The Saskatoon Indian and Métis Friendship Centre provides services and programs to First Nations and Métis people in Saskatoon. It is offering the language classes in partnership with the White Buffalo Youth Lodge and the Saskatoon Public Library.
• The Aboriginal Languages Initiative supports community-based language projects that contribute to the revitalization and preservation of Aboriginal languages and increase their use in community settings.

Quotes

"Our Government is committed to supporting the revitalization and preservation of First Nations, Inuit and Métis languages and cultures. These languages are an important part of our heritage and vital for our Aboriginal communities."

- The Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages

"I applaud the Saskatoon Indian and Métis Friendship Centre's work to enhance and maintain the Cree language "Y" dialect for future generations."

- Maurice Vellacott, Member of Parliament (Saskatoon-Wanuskewin)

"The Saskatoon Indian and Metis Friendship Centre is looking forward to continuing our Saskatoon Community Cree "Y" Dialect Language Project. These community Cree classes combined with cultural teachings will be held in four locations around Saskatoon, including the White Buffalo Youth Lodge, two Saskatoon Public Libraries, and at the Friendship Centre. Learning our Nēhiyawēwin language is key to self-identity and understanding our culture and heritage."

- Bill Mintram, Executive Director, Saskatoon Indian and Métis Friendship Centre

Associated Links

Aboriginal Languages Initiative

Saskatoon Indian and Métis Friendship Centre

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