Revitalizing Ojibwe Anishinaabemowin at Caldwell First Nation

Situated along the shores of Lake Erie, Ontario, Caldwell First Nation (CFN) is the newest established First Nation in Canada.

Since receiving designated reserve lands in 2020, CFN has been working to reconnect with their lost language and culture. Every living member has been affected by Residential Schools, Adult Day Schools, and the 60s Scoop, resulting in a significant loss of connection to their Ojibwe Anishinaabemowin language and cultural practices.

With an aging population, CFN has a narrow window to gather community voices and learn from their Elders. Recognizing the urgency, the Nation is strategically engaging community members and Knowledge Keepers in a 5-year community language and culture revitalization plan. 

A significant grant from the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF) will support the creation of the plan, including conducting community focus groups and a large community conference to gather member knowledge and insights. Funding will also support the creation of a Language and Culture Guardians Working Group to guide the plan’s development and retain a consultant specializing in Indigenous languages to support the project. 

The initiative will have a profound and long-lasting impact. Many CFN members have not had access to their language or culture. This program provides them an opportunity to co-create a community-informed language plan that will help Caldwell First Nation revitalize the language and traditions that are at risk of being lost forever.

Diocese of London