The NDC's Language and Culture Department preserves and develops the Naskapi language through keystone projects established to document, maintain and grow this precious language for the Kawawachikamach community and the Naskapi diaspora. These initiatives include the Naskapi Lexicon, the Naskapi Grammar, education and literacy, and the preservation of traditional legends and stories.
Naskapi culture and language
ᐃᔅᒋᓇᑕᐤ ᑭᔭ ᒋᔅᒋᓄᐛᔅᒋᑕᑕᐤ ᒋᑦ ᐃᔨᒧᓄᐤ ᑭᔭ ᒋᑦ ᐃᔪᐤ ᐃᑐᐅᓄᐛ
Essential language projects for future generations
Language preservation and documentation
Comprehensive documentation of Naskapi language structures with the forthcoming publication of the second edition of the Naskapi Lexicon in 2025, 30 years after the first edition.
Ongoing development of the Naskapi Reference Grammar, in collaboration with specialized linguists and the NDC language team.
Translation and sacred resources
The NDC has been providing professional Naskapi translation services for over 30 years. This expertise supports the transmission, revitalization and promotion of the Naskapi language in cultural, educational and spiritual contexts.
Their most notable achievements include the translation of community documents, educational resources, and cultural and religious texts.
Toponymy and territorial cartography
Preservation of over 600 Naskapi place names and their translations in a collaborative database with the Université de Sherbrooke.
Mapping traditional hunting routes and maintaining the vital link between the Naskapi language and ancestral territory.
Strengthened community partnerships
In collaboration with the Naskapi School and the Naskapi Nation, our department develops initiatives such as the Naskapi Community Literacy Project and the 2024 Naskapi Language Gathering. These partnerships enable us to maximize the impact of our limited resources while meeting the growing needs of the community.
Cultural initiatives and knowledge transfer
Traditional food and cooking
Elders Elizabeth Guanish McKenzie and Agnes Mameanskum McKenzie teach traditional caribou and ptarmigan cooking techniques. These hands-on sessions allow young mothers to learn while using the Naskapi language, forming a natural connection between culinary culture and language preservation.
Traditional crafts and sewing
Mitten-, sweater- and shawl-making workshops led by Agnes Uniam Einish, with up to 18 participants, including youth. Contribution to community events such as the 2024 Elders Gathering, which was hosted by the Naskapi.
Training and skills development
Naskapi literacy classes for adults using the Naskapi-McGill curriculum. Training of future local teachers to ensure program sustainability. Participation in the First Nations Translator Workshop in Guelph, Ontario.
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Together, we can help the Naskapi community grow and support its sustainable development.
