Breathe the Language

Language is a living, breathing force in Indigenous cultures. Tied to the spirit, it is how generations have passed down traditions and histories orally from grandparent to grandchild.

Today, many Indigenous languages facing extinction means not just the loss of the spoken word, but an erasure of culture and connection to land.

Communities and organizations are refusing to let that happen. The St. Louis Métis Local is bringing together youth and Elders to revitalize culture using a language-based approach. Launched in June 2025, the Connecting Culture to Land initiative is grounded in traditional Métis customs such as bison harvesting, river travel, foraging and storytelling. These activities give youth the chance to practice French-Michif in real, meaningful ways. Elders and Knowledge Keepers will ensure the transfer of sacred knowledge to youth is achieved not just through listening, but by encouraging the next generation to actively participate and build skills they can carry forward.

The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF) has been proud to support previous language initiatives by the St. Louis Métis Local, including a French-Michif language app and other cultural programs for young Indigenous Peoples. The Local seeks to build on their previous efforts to have families join in activities together, and for youth to have more exposure to Elders. These activities help bring the language alive in its natural context, tying it directly to the practices, places and people it belongs to.

Diocese of Prince Albert