U Multicultural is working with indigenous speakers and knowledge keepers to help preserve three of Canada’s indigenous languages and increase awareness and respect for its indigenous peoples and culture.
The Indigenous Languages Series is a unique project presented by U Multicultural, focused on education for the indigenous languages of Cree, Ojibwe and Inuktitut, through stories, culture and traditions. The episodes created with six Indigenous speakers – Michael Kusugak, Robert Maytwayashing, Isabel Scribe, Lisa Muswagon, Henry Pitawanakwat, Cameron Robertson – will be featured on U Multicultural’s online platforms, Inuit Broadcasting Corporation, First Peoples Radio Inc., and Shaw Spotlight. The project is funded by The Government of Canada through the Department of Canadian Heritage and distributed across Canada with help from the Inuit Broadcasting Corporation and First Peoples Radio Inc.
“Inuit Broadcasting Corporation’s (IBC) mandate is to support and strengthen the Inuit language, so we are encouraged to see the U Multicultural Channel working towards the same goal. IBC is delighted to be a distribution partner for this project through our communications networks.”
– Manitok Thompson, CEO Inuit Broadcasting Corporation.“One of First Peoples Radio’s mandate is to continue to promote the growth and education of indigenous languages and we’re excited that U Multicultural shares the same views. First Peoples Radio would be proud to have this programming on both our Toronto and Ottawa stations.”
– Andrew Johnson, Station Manager, 1065 ELMNT FM.“Iishpin giigendamaan gii geegiidoon iigaa giigendaan gaa anishinabaaean. If you have your indigenous language then you will know who you are as an indigenous person.”
– Robert Maytwayashing, indigenous knowledge keeper, educator, speaker.
Through continued language and cultural education and sharing of this knowledge, U Multicultural helps preserve indigenous languages, strengthen the connections with ethnic and general communities, and educate the audience of U Multicultural – immigrants, newcomers, refugees, and racialized communities about indigenous culture, worldview and ethics.
