Mi’gmaw Language Revitalization Program

Mission Statement:

“To develop and promote a holistic approach to the resurgence of the Mi’gmaw language and culture for the well-being of our people”

The Mi’gmaw Language Revitalization Program:

The Mi’gmaw Language Revitalization Program was created out of the need for Mi’gmaw language reclamation and revitalization in Listuguj. In the past, the community of Listuguj relied on the Listuguj Education Directorate to be responsible for Mi’gmaw language education, reclamation and revitalization, when it is all of OUR responsibility. The main objective of the program is to restore the valuation of the Mi’gmaw language, create a space for language resurgence, and revitalization the Mi’gmaw language holistically.

About the Mi’gmaw Language Revitalization & Culture Project Coordinator:

“Erika G. Marchand is from Listuguj and Gesgagpegiag. She is the daughter of John Marchand and Marina Gedeon. The Mi’gmaw language was Erika’s first language but was disrupted by English and French education. During her undergrad at St. Thomas University, she was influenced by Mi’gmaw and Wolastoqey language champions to carry out the work of reclaiming, revitalizing, maintaining and strengthening our Indigenous languages. After graduating with Bachelor of Arts with honours in Native Studies, she continued language work into her master’s thesis, What Does L’nu Tli’suti Teach Us? Ancestral Teachings, Knowledges and Wisdom in the 21^st Century. After two years, she completed her master’s degree and started to work in her home communities carrying out language work.

Erika started this position in August of 2019. This is a new position under the Office of Chief and Council. The purpose of this position is to focus on community language and culture revitalization efforts.

Erika G. Marchand, Mi’gmaw Language Revitalization & Culture Project Coordinator

Contact information:

Migmaw.revitalization@listuguj.ca

OR

Erika.marchand@listuguj.ca

418-788-2136