Introduction to Nêhiyawêwin - Let's Speak Cree

Nêhiyawêwin, or the Cree language, holds a unique place in the cultural fabric of Indigenous peoples in Canada. As a rich and vibrant way of communication, learning Cree is essential for preserving its history, traditions, and identity. In this blog post, we will explore various teaching resources and platforms that can help learners of all levels dive into the depths of this language. From personally produced resources to helpful online forums, you'll find valuable tools to support your journey in Nêhiyawêwin.

Our Mission: Supporting Cree Language Education

The objective of this online collective is straightforward: to gather resources that facilitate the learning and teaching of Nêhiyawêwin. With Indigenous languages at risk, it becomes imperative to invest in their revival. By sharing personal teaching methods and rich educational materials, we encourage both educators and learners to engage with Cree in meaningful ways.

Why Is Language Preservation Important?

Statistics show that only a fraction of Indigenous languages are spoken fluently. From a previous Case Study by Kenecia Anderson for the Linguistics 280 Class in March 2025, the information gathered on the language is listed here.

"The Plains Cree language is a member of the Algonquian language family. From the 2021 Census by Statistics Canada there are 86,480 Cree language speakers (Statistics Canada, 2021). Also from the 2021 Census, there has been approximately a -7.9 decline in speakers since the previous 2016 Census. The Cree language is spoken across Canada, and its dialects vary by region. From the Cree Language article in the Canadian Encyclopedia the dialects and its region are listed as follows:

·        Plains Cree, also known as the y-dialect (spoken in much of Alberta, central Saskatchewan and Manitoba, and northern Montana)

·        Woods Cree, also known as the th-dialect (spoken in northern Manitoba and Saskatchewan)

·        Swampy Cree, also known as the n-dialect (spoken in northern Manitoba and Ontario)

·        Moose Cree, also known as the l-dialect (spoken in northern Ontario)

·        James Bay/Eastern Cree (spoken mainly on the lower east coast of Hudson Bay and the east coast of James Bay). James Bay/Eastern Cree has a northern and southern dialect

·        Attikamek (Atikamekw) also known as the r-dialect (spoken in central Quebec)

·        Montagnais (spoken in north-central Quebec and on the north shores of the St. Lawrence River and Gulf of St. Lawrence)

·        Naskapi (northeast Quebec and northern Labrador)" (Darnell, 2025).

Every spoken word carries centuries of wisdom, culture, and history. By learning Nêhiyawêwin, you become part of a larger movement toward preserving and revitalizing this precious heritage.

Teaching Resources for All Learners

A wealth of resources exists for those who want to learn Nêhiyawêwin. Here are some key categories to explore:

Online Platforms and Websites

1. Cree Language Community Portal - This site hosts a variety of courses and learning materials, perfect for beginners and advanced learners alike. It offers video tutorials, audio resources, and interactive quizzes.

   
   

2. Facebook Groups - Social media can be a valuable tool for learning. Joining groups such as "Learn Cree" allows you to connect with other learners and teachers. Engaging with a community can enhance your understanding through conversations and shared resources.

   
   

3. Teachers Pay Teachers - This platform features resources designed by teachers for teachers. You can find lesson plans, worksheets, and activities that are specifically geared toward teaching Cree.

   
   

Print Resources

Books, posters, and teaching handbooks are also available:

• Cree Dictionary and Grammar Guides - This comprehensive resource not only provides vocabulary but also explains the grammatical structure of the language.

  
  

• Cree Language Posters - Visual aids can be especially helpful. Posters that illustrate common phrases and vocabulary can be used in classrooms or at home to increase exposure to the language.

  
  

Elder and Speaker Connections

Connecting with fluent speakers is invaluable. Seek opportunities to engage with elders in your community. They often have storytelling traditions and knowledge that are essential for authentic learning.

To get started, you can check local Indigenous cultural centers or programs for elders who are willing to offer lessons or mentorship. Including their perspectives in your learning journey not only enriches your understanding but also honors the language's lineage.

In-Person Professional Development Opportunities

Professional development is crucial for educators looking to teach Nêhiyawêwin effectively. Various opportunities are available across Canada, including:

Conferences

Events like the "Cree Language and Culture Conference" provide a platform for educators to exchange ideas, learn new teaching strategies, and connect with experts in the field. Participants can attend workshops focused on language revitalization efforts and curriculum development.

Certificate Programs

Several institutions offer certificate programs tailored to Indigenous language teaching. These programs equip educators with the tools they need to create inclusive and effective learning environments. Check local universities or Indigenous higher education programs for available options.

Potential Resource Links:

• THINK INDIGENOUS EVENTS INC. - Home

• Indigenous Language | University of Regina

• Indigenous Languages - Admissions | University of Saskatchewan

Making Language Learning Fun and Engaging

Learning a language should not be a tedious task. Here are ways to make the process enjoyable:

1. Interactive Games - Incorporate games such as bingo or memory match using Cree vocabulary to make learning fun.

   
   

2. Storytelling Nights - Encourage community gatherings where fluent speakers share stories in Cree, allowing learners to listen and absorb the language in a natural setting.

   
   

3. Art and Creativity - Combine art with language learning by encouraging students to create their own drawings or crafts that relate to vocabulary words.

   
   

By integrating these activities into your learning regimen, you not only make the process lively but also deepen your connection to the language and culture.

Join Us in Reviving Nêhiyawêwin

Learning Nêhiyawêwin is about connecting with a deep cultural heritage and contributing to the revitalization of the Cree language. By utilizing the resources mentioned above, you can play a vital role in preserving this beautiful language for future generations.

Engage with your community, participate in in-person learning opportunities, and explore the wealth of available online resources. Together, we can ensure that Nêhiyawêwin thrives, allowing its speakers to share the richness of their culture.

The path to learning Nêhiyawêwin is not one you must navigate alone. Let's speak Cree and keep the language strong!

Works Cited:

Darnell, R. (2025, January 21). Cree Language. Retrieved from The Canadian Encyclopedia: www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/cree-syllabics

Statistics Canada. (2021). Census of Population. Retrieved from https://www12.statcan.gc.ca/census-recensement/2021/as-sa/98-200-X/2021012/98-200-x2021012-eng.cfm