Updated with Cree episodes link.
A new Indigenous language series has been developed that weaves together conversations with language and knowledge keepers and Indigenous artists.
Words and Culture will eventually feature five different language families—Iroquoian, Athabaskan, Anishinaabemowin (Ojibway), Inuktitut, and Cree.
Learn simple phrases and connect to the culture of those communities with six episodes each for each language group.
The Haudenosaunee Episodes (Iroquoian) have aired with host January Rogers (Mohawk/Tuscarora), who offers an introduction. Episode one features language keeper Amos Key Jr who shares his journey of learning Oneida and talks about the genesis of his people who come from the sky world. "We consider ourselves star people because we came from the heavens," Key says. Music by the Ol’ Mush Singers. The next episodes focus on Cayuga and Mohawk. Episodes five and six aired March 4 and March 11.
The other language groups will air each Monday over the coming months, starting with Cree. Check out the episodes here: https://www.wordsandculture.ca/episode/the-cree-episodes/
Author Michael Hutchinson hosts the Cree episodes.
The series is funded by SiriusXM Canada through the Community Radio Fund of Canada.
The team creating this original content is made up exclusively of Indigenous producers, hosts and guests.
Through Words and Culture, listeners will get to understand the passion of language keepers, the musicians who sing in their languages, the excitement of a language nest and the challenges for new speakers. The series will also include profiles of generational speakers who are keeping their languages alive, and a documentary-style episode of practical uses for everyday tasks – ie. Cree in the kitchen.
Visit the website to listen to the Iroquoian language group under The Haudenosaunee Episodes here: The Haudenosaunee Episodes – wordsandculture.ca
Top Photo Caption: January Rogers hosts the Words and Culture language series Haudenosaunee episodes and Michael Hutchinson will host the Cree episodes.