Language

The language program encourages the use of the Aboriginal languages (Cree, Oji-Cree, and Ojibway) spoken within the NAN.

Objective

• To provide translation and interpretation services to Aboriginal organizations, communities, and people within the NAN area.

The language program works to ensure the survival of the Aboriginal languages spoken within the Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN). To maintain and reinforce the use of the Aboriginal languages, there is ongoing development of language resource materials, workshops and active liaison and contact with the elders, educators and educational institutes within the NAN area. We provide, upon request, translation of documents, articles, reports, correspondence, etc., for government agencies, Native organizations and public and private sectors. We also provide, upon request, interpreting services in courts, social agencies, and meetings.

Note on language:

The spirit, culture, history, and philosophy of a people is passed on, and preserved, from generation to generation through language. Without the language, a culture cannot survive. Therefore, it is imperative that the knowledge and wisdom of our elders be regained and retained.

Note on translating and interpreting:

Translation and interpretation are methods used to communicate ideas expressed by a source group of people with one culture and one language to a target group of people with a different culture and a different language. Knowing two languages is not enough to bridge the language barrier. To communicate cross-culturally one must learn how to use them.

"A knowledge of languages, however perfect, is not sufficient to make an interpreter. Two personal qualities (nervous resistance, readiness of speech, etc.) must be added both intellectual gifts (power of concentration, quickness of mind, a good memory) and mortal attributes (self-command, a sense of responsibility). Even these essential accomplishments could not produce an interpreter were they not supported by a sound knowledge of the subject."

-- S. Stelling-Michaud, Professor, University of Geneva, Principal of the School of Interpreters

Be Proud of Your Language

	The James Bay Treaty - Treaty No. 9 (English) The James Bay Treaty - Treaty No. 9
	The James Bay Treaty - Treaty No. 9 (Cree) The James Bay Treaty - Treaty No. 9
	The Ay Ee Oo Aa Book (English) The Ay Ee Oo Aa Book
	Syllabic Poster 18" x 24" $5.00 Syllabic poster for Primary, Junior, and Intermediate grade levels.
	Electronic Terminology Glossary (English, Ojibway, Oji-Cree, Cree) ISBN 0-919523-99-4 Free The Electronic Terminology Glossary provides technical electronic words explained in simple language and translated in Cree, Oji-Cree, and Ojibway for translators/interpreters and other people interested in using these words in their own language.
	Education Terminology Glossary (English, Ojibway, Oji-Cree, Cree) ISBN 0-897322-06-2 Free The Education Terminology Glossary provides technical education words explained in simple language and translated in Cree, Oji-Cree, and Ojibway for Native Language teachers and other people interested in using these words in their own language.

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