Saskatchewan Man Dedicated to Preserving Cree Language for Future Generations
In a world where languages are disappearing at an alarming rate, one man in Saskatchewan is determined to keep the Cree language alive.
Meet John Smith, a member of the Cree Nation and a language teacher at the local community college. For Smith, the preservation of the Cree language is not just a passion, but a responsibility.
“I grew up speaking Cree with my grandparents and it was such an important part of my identity and culture,” Smith shared in an interview. “But as I got older, I noticed that fewer and fewer young people were speaking the language. That’s when I knew I had to do something about it.”
According to a report by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), over 2,500 languages are at risk of disappearing. This is due to a variety of factors, including globalization, urbanization, and the dominance of major languages like English.
In Canada, the Cree language is one of the most widely spoken Indigenous languages, with over 96,000 speakers. However, it is also listed as an endangered language by UNESCO.
To combat this, Smith has been teaching Cree language classes at the community college for the past 10 years. His classes are open to anyone who is interested, regardless of their age or background.
“I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to learn their ancestral language,” Smith stated. “It’s not just about preserving the language, but also about connecting with our culture and heritage.”
Smith’s dedication to keeping the Cree language alive has not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous awards and recognition for his work, including the Order of Canada in 2018.
But for Smith, the most rewarding part of his job is seeing his students embrace the language and use it in their daily lives.
“I have students who come to me and tell me that they can now have conversations with their grandparents in Cree,” Smith shared with a smile. “That’s what keeps me going, knowing that I am making a difference in preserving our language for future generations.”
Smith’s efforts have also inspired others in the community to take action. The local school board has recently implemented Cree language classes in their curriculum, and there has been a resurgence of interest in traditional ceremonies and practices.
As the world continues to evolve and change, it is important to remember the value of preserving languages and cultures. Thanks to individuals like John Smith, the Cree language will continue to thrive and be passed down to future generations.
