Our language journey: Commitment, awakening, and revitalization Chief Leroy Denny, Eskasoni First Nation

PJILita’q Chief Leroy Denny Chief of Essissoqnik First Nation Former Band Councillor Former Teacher

community Population of Essissoqnik 4,500+ State of the Language Goals of Chief & Council Language Steering Committee Language Domains Eskasoni Language (stats, schools, community planning) (15 minutes)

Making language fun

Making language fun My Unama’ki https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QfDtxhsS31A Chicken Run (clip) Drop Box Link

Mi’kmaw kina’matnewey Who We Are Language and Culture Priority Recent Events and Initiatives

Mi’kmaw kina’matnewey Language Planning L’nuta’ql Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W6FQEYfjEVM& app=desktop https://vimeo.com/301286190/c29aa2d8e8

Longitudinal study 2016-2017 MK Language Research Project Mi’kmaq and English Language Skills Grade Primary –Grade 3 Research Questions: What is the level of Mi’kmaq language ability among students in the immersion program compared to those students in the regular program? What is the level of English language ability among students in the immersion program compared to those students in the regular program?

Ns language legislation Background Process Guiding Principles: Recognition, Visibility, Accessibility, Consistency & Stability Community Engagement Timeline

Looking ahead Language is Stronger More Music, More Resources, Improve Accessibility Podcasts, Videos, Vlogging, Apps Professional Development Band Staff Adult Immersion Create Develop Speakers Document Elders Interviews