“We have to get together, we who speak this language. To work together and encourage all our people to re-learn their language, to tell them why their language is considered so precious.”
– Nelliane Cromarty
This initiative was guided by the wisdom and insight of Indigenous Knowledge Keepers from Manitoba, Canada. Their guidance ensured that Speak Indigenous is rooted in cultural integrity, respect, and relevance.
We extend our deepest gratitude to the Knowledge Keepers whose voices, experiences, and teachings shaped this work. This project would not have been possible without their generous contributions of time and knowledge.
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Nelliane Cromarty
Read Bio: Nelliane CromartyNelliane Cromarty currently serves as a Grandparent for the Manitoba Aboriginal Language Strategy (MALS) representing the Anisinineemowin language group. She is thankful to have retained her language in…
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Dave Swanson
Read Bio: Dave SwansonDave Swanson was born in Norway House, Manitoba and is a fluent Ininímowin (Cree) speaker. As a teacher, he has…
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Glenn Tssessaze
Read Bio: Glenn TssessazeGlenn Tssessaze was born in La Ronge, Saskatchewan but raised in the Denesuline communities of Wollaston Lake, Saskatchewan and La…
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Wilfred Andrew Wood
Read Bio: Wilfred Andrew WoodWilfred Andrew Wood was born at Opa-wah-ka-sihk near the community of Nelson House now known as Nisicawayasihk. Andrew was raised…
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Starlett (Star) Beardy
Read Bio: Starlett (Star) BeardyStarlett (Star) Beardy is from the Pimicikamāk Cree Nation (Cross Lake), located in northern Manitoba, and is a fluent Ininīmōwin (Cree) speaker. Star attributes her fluency…
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Tanya Dawn McDougall
Read Bio: Tanya Dawn McDougall[Some] people are scared to make a mistake or fear being laughed at. I just encourage people: don’t worry about…
