Ke’ L’nui’sultinej
Let’s speak Mi’kmaw
Kwe’, you are welcome to join us as we learn to read, write and speak Mi’kmaw using the Smith – Francis Mi’kmaw Orthography.
There’s something to learn for every member of the family. There is no fee to participate.
To register and/or keep in touch write us at: petitpas.mikmawheritage@gmail.com
What we do
Many ways to learn.
Online Language Instruction
Beginner, intermediate and fluent levels. Once you understand the basics, you are encouraged to challenge your conversation by engaging a partner and uploading your conversations.
Language Resource Centers
Three Mi’kmaw language resource centers welcome you in Grand Falls – Windsor, St. George’s and DeGrau on the island of Newfoundland. The language centers are a safe space to practice the language and secure resources to aid in your journey.
Language and Culture Camps
Stay in touch to learn of the next MHRRA Mi’kmaw Language and Culture Camp. Using the language as a portal to our culture, these camps help us understand Mi’kmaw traditions and worldview.
Social Media
Join one of our Facebook pages and choose your way to learn:
Mi’kmaw Motherese – Language Resource Centers – Mi’kmaw Language Learners – Traditional Knowledge with Delina Petit Pas
About us
Gain insight into Mi’kmaw worldview and traditions.
Embark on a transformative journey with our expertly designed curriculum . Understand the depth and beauty of our Mi’kmaw culture from the voices of our Mi’kmaw ancestors.
The Mi’kmaw Language and your path to Mi’kmaw traditions
More than grammar and conversational phrases, the MHRRA’s Smith-Francis curriculum explores the meaning behind the phrases and the rich legacy of traditional knowledge found within. Not all of our cultural knowledge is lost, it is being discovered, one phrase at a time.
Smith-Francis Mi’kmaw Orthography
The Smith/Francis Orthography is the official reading and writing System of the Mi’kmaw people in Nova Scotia and is officially recognized by the Mi’kmaw chiefs in Nova Scotia, as well as by the Canada-Nova Scotia-Mi’kmaq Tripartite Forum.
The Mi’kmaw Research Restoration Association MHRRRA
Over 16 years, the MHRRA has delivered programs in the areas of Language/Culture, Mental Health and Youth Restorative Justice from a Mi’kmaw perspective. The MHRRA continues to lead the revival of the Mi’kmaw Language in its relationship to Mi’kmaw Culture and traditions.
Our Team
Elder Dr. Bernie Francis
Author, Linguist, Advocate, Storyteller, Musician, Mentor. Co-developed the Smith-Francis Mi’kmaw orthography with linguist Doug Smith.Dr. Francis is an author of academic articles on Mi’kmaw law, Mi’kmaw spirituality, the conceptual differences of thought between Mi’kmaw People and Europeans and books explaining Mi’kmaw tradition and language.
Curtis Micheal
MHRRA Mi’kmaw
Language Instructor
Curtis L. Michael of Sɨpekne’kati First Nation is an experienced teacher of the Smith-Francis Orthography. Humour, song and dance is incorporated in his teaching methods to deliver a fun and effective way to learn. A recipient of the national Indspire Award in 2013, Curtis teaches online and offine and creates educational content for MHRRA social media sites.
Delina Petit Pas
CEO, Executive Director MHRRA
Delina is a tireless administrator who is committed to the revival of the Mi’kmaw language and the Smith Francis Orthography. A registered family mediator with the Family Mediation Canada and the Justice Institute of British Columbia, Delina also hold a diploma in Community Economic Development.
FAQs
How are the lessons delivered?
Our lessons are conducted online and offline at our Language Resource Centers. You’ll be able to learn at your convenience and accessibility.
How much do the lessons cost?
There are no fees to learn the Smith-Francis Mi’kmaw Orthography. With a commitment to preserving and maintaining Indigenous languages, MHRRA programming is sponsored by the Government of Canada..
What commitment is required?
Your level of commitment is dependent on the programming you choose. Should you choose to join us, we encourage your attendance (online or offline and video submissions to aid in your progression.
What results can I expect from learning the Smith – Francis Orthography
Depending on your level (beginner, intermediate or fluent) you can expect to learn conversational Mi’kmaw, grammar, the meaning behind the phrases and you’ll have fun and make new friendships within the community.
How do I sign up?
Email Delina, she’ll let you know how to start and where you can access resources. petitpas.mikmawheritage@gmail.com
Who teaches the courses?
Our team of Language Resource Coordinators and under the tutelage of Elder Dr. Bernie Francis and Curtis Micheal guide participants through the basics. Students on their way to fluency benefit from one-on-one instruction with Elder Dr. Francis. Our Language Resource coordinators are learning with you.
Who can benefit from these lessons?
Anyone (and those who would like to immerse their children) wanting to know more of Mi’kmaw worldview, culture and traditions. Age, culture background, status, not status – you are welcome to join us.