December 18, 2024
Mi'kmaw Language teachers were invited to attend a language camp on the last weekend of November in Baddeck. Fifty educators signed up for the 3 day event which began with keynote speaker Belinda Daniels who is a member of the Sturgeon Lake First Nation. She shared her story of being raised by her grandparents and growing up hearing Cree at home but not being encouraged to speak the language. Her grandparents attended Residential Schools when they were young and didn't want her to be punished as they were for speaking their language. As an adult she was inspired to learn to speak Cree while working at a high school where others spoke the language. Her story was very powerful and inspirational to everyone.
On day 2 of the camp, teachers attended several presentations and workshops on topics such as Land and Sea Based Learning, teaching through song, Mi'kmaw games, and creating speakers in the home. The day ended with a fun evening of Waltes. On Sunday before everyone went home, the teachers had lots of fun dancing with Bubblo Jeddore and closed the event with opened hearts and new inspiration.
