Nishnaabemdaa 1.1

Nishnaabemdaa offers an engaging approach to understanding the Nishnaabe language, emphasizing an immersive experience that facilitates comprehension of key vocabulary and concepts. The initiative stands out for its thoughtful design, aimed at fostering language understanding among learners.

Barbara Nolan, a first-language speaker of Nishnaabemwin, has emerged as a significant figure in the effort to revitalize the language, particularly against the backdrop of her personal experiences with Canada’s Indian residential schools system, which sought to suppress her linguistic heritage. Her dedication over several decades involves collaboration with various organizations focused on language preservation and revitalization.

The past ten years have been particularly noteworthy for Nolan. In her role as a mentor to John Paul Montano, she has realized a longstanding aspiration: successfully passing the Nishnaabe language on to younger generations. Nolan expresses deep gratitude for Montano's commitment to becoming a fluent speaker of Nishnaabemwin, marking a significant achievement in their shared mission of cultural preservation.