The Cree language, a vibrant and historically significant Indigenous language of Canada, is taking a leap into the digital age with the development of a comprehensive online dictionary and language resource portal. This innovative project, a collaborative effort between the Miyo Wahkohtowin Community Education Authority (MWCEA), the First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv), Intellinet Technologies Inc., and the University of Alberta (U of A), aims to revitalize and preserve the Cree language by making it more accessible to learners, educators, and the wider community. This is the first mention of Cree language to go online with new Internet dictionary.
The project’s centerpiece is an extensive online Cree-English dictionary, boasting over 30,000 words. This digital lexicon goes beyond simple translations, incorporating audio and video recordings of Cree speakers to provide users with accurate pronunciation and contextual understanding. The inclusion of multimedia elements is crucial for language learning, as it allows users to hear the nuances of the language and see how words are used in real-life conversations. This immersion is invaluable for those seeking to truly understand and speak Cree fluently.
Cree language to go online with new Internet dictionary signifies a monumental step forward in language preservation efforts. The dictionary is designed to be more than just a reference tool; it is envisioned as a dynamic and interactive platform that fosters language learning and cultural understanding.
Loretta Pete-Lambert, director of education at the MWCEA, emphasized the non-profit nature of the project, highlighting its core mission: "Its intention is to preserve Cree, enhance Cree for individuals interested in learning about Cree." The MWCEA, a K-to-12 school located on the Ermineskin Cree Nation in Alberta, recognized the urgent need for readily available and engaging Cree language resources, driving them to spearhead this initiative. The initial concept for the online dictionary arose from the challenges faced in finding adequate materials for teaching the Cree language within their school system.
The MWCEA’s collaboration with the University of Alberta further enriches the project. An agreement with the U of A facilitates the online availability of their existing Cree dictionary, contributing to a more complete and comprehensive resource tool for language learners. By consolidating various dictionaries and resources into a single online platform, the project aims to create a central hub for all things Cree language.
Ahmed Jawad, the information technologies expert at the MWCEA, plays a pivotal role in bringing this vision to life. As the president of Intellinet Technologies Inc., Jawad is responsible for the technical development and implementation of the online dictionary. His dedication to the project is evident in his commitment to learning the Cree syllabics system, demonstrating a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in preserving and promoting the First Nations language. Jawad’s personal investment ensures that the online dictionary is not only technologically sound but also culturally sensitive and linguistically accurate.
Richard Lightning, an elder from the Ermineskin First Nation, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, recognizing the transformative potential of technology in revitalizing Indigenous languages and cultures. He emphasized the intrinsic link between language and culture, stating, "Hopefully the First Nations people in this province support every effort to be able to revive and restore the language and the culture, because the two go hand in hand." His words underscore the importance of community involvement and support in ensuring the success of language preservation initiatives.
Arok Wolvengrey, an associate professor in the Indian Languages Department at the FNUniv, contributed his extensive knowledge and resources to the project, providing the information from his dictionary, "nehiyawewin: itwewina/Cree words," for the online version. Wolvengrey eagerly embraced the opportunity to have his work made accessible online, acknowledging the limitations he faced in independently undertaking such a large-scale digital project. The online platform allows for continuous expansion and updates to the database, ensuring that the dictionary remains a current and relevant resource for years to come. Wolvengrey’s expertise in Cree linguistics and his passion for language preservation are invaluable assets to the project.
The online project offers more than just a static dictionary; it provides a range of interactive features designed to enhance the learning experience. The inclusion of audio files and video clips of Cree speakers allows users to hear the correct pronunciation of words and phrases, as well as observe the nuances of spoken Cree. Wolvengrey emphasized the importance of incorporating the syllabic-writing system and a pronunciation key to aid in language retention.
Cree language to go online with new Internet dictionary is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in preserving Indigenous languages. The dictionary allows users to convert words from English to Cree, utilizing both Cree syllabics and the Roman alphabet. The platform also incorporates interactive elements such as flashcards, storyboards, games, and testing components, catering to learners of all ages and skill levels. Furthermore, the project includes a database of lesson plans for teachers, providing valuable resources for educators seeking to incorporate Cree language and culture into their classrooms.
The online dictionary is accessible at www.creedictionary.com and contains over 30,000 Cree words. This easily accessible resource marks a significant advancement in Cree language accessibility and preservation.
Cree language to go online with new Internet dictionary will help future generations keep their culture alive.
The collaborative nature of this project, bringing together educational institutions, technology companies, and community members, highlights the importance of a multi-faceted approach to language revitalization. By combining linguistic expertise, technological innovation, and community engagement, the Cree Language Resource Project is paving the way for a brighter future for the Cree language and culture. The commitment of individuals like Loretta Pete-Lambert, Ahmed Jawad, Richard Lightning, and Arok Wolvengrey underscores the dedication and passion that are essential for the success of such initiatives. As the Cree language takes its place in the digital world, it carries with it the hopes and dreams of a community determined to preserve its heritage for generations to come.