04/01/2026
March 31 is National Indigenous Languages Day, a day to honour, promote, and learn about the numerous languages that arose right here in the land we now know as Canada.
Multilingualism has been a defining characteristic of the Métis Nation since its emergence in the late 18th century, and we see this clearly in the three languages now broadly known as Michif: Southern Michif, Northern Michif, and Michif French. Each of the three Michif languages arose through blending Nêhiyawêwin (Plains Cree) and Nakawemowin (Saulteaux) with western European languages (mainly French and English) in different ways. These three unique Michif languages are a testament to the Métis as a distinct people.
Language is more than just a means of communication; it encompasses history, culture, traditions, beliefs, and knowledge systems. Taken together, all of these contribute to a strong sense of identity, which in turn contributes to individual and communal wellbeing.*
That is why MNBC, Métis Chartered Communities, Citizens, self-identifying folks and allies are working to promote, protect, and revitalize Michif languages, in the hopes that future generations of Métis will continue to honour, value, and speak Michif as part of their cultural inheritance. 💙
*Source: Harding, L., DeCaire, R., Ellis, U., Delaurier-Lyle, K., Schillo, J., & Turin, M. (2025). Language improves health and wellbeing in Indigenous communities: a scoping review. Language and Health, 3(1).
📚Resources:
♾️ Learn more about the language resources and grants offered by MNBC’s Ministry of Culture, Heritage & Language: https://www.mnbc.ca/work-programs/ministries/culture-heritage-language
♾️ Explore the Michif Phrase Search, videos, and audio resources from the The Amelia Douglas Institute for Métis Culture and Language: https://ameliadouglasinstitute.ca/michif-language
