This project was developed from a simple idea: to reconnect the members of the Wolastoqiyik Wahsipekuk community with the language of their ancestors: Wolastoqey latuwewakon.
Since the only remaining speakers of this language are mainly English speakers, there were no learning tools available for French-speaking Wolastoqiyik.
This trilingual tool is a first. Not only does it aim to promote the survival and learning of our ancestral language, but also to bring together all of our nation's different communities, whether they are in Quebec, New Brunswick or in Maine.
Our ancestral language, Wolastoqey Latuwewakon, is our wealth, our collective heritage. It describes our way of life, our traditions, our values. It honours our land and gives us access to our precious heritage.
So let's talk now: Wolastoqewatu! Our ancestors hear us!
Woliwon to the Wolastoqiyik Wahsipekuk First Nation team involved in this project: Kevin Morais Chief Councillor, Isabelle Losier Coordinator.
Woliwon to Édith Bélanger for writing the modules, coordinating the recordings and for her great desire to transmit her knowledge.
Woliwon to Camil Girard and his team at UQAC for believing in this project from the start and to Canadian Heritage for its financial contribution.
Woliwon especially to the speakers, translators and teachers who participated in the revision and recording of the material: Catherine Desjardins ALI Project Manager, Allan Tremblay, Ron Tremblay, Roseanne Clark and Glen Tremblay. Your generosity, patience and dedication to the preservation of our language are remarkable. You are extraordinary!
Woliwon komac to Lisa Dutcher for her help on the health section and to Victor Bear for his teachings on traditional medicines.
Woliwon to the Boîte Rouge VIF for its efficient and inspired work, especially to Jean-François Vachon for his motivation and positive energy.
Woliwon to Josée Longchamps, image fairy, for her inspired illustrations that honour our culture.
Woliwon to the youth of our community, your determination to reclaim our culture is remarkable.
Woliwon to the elders, bearers of knowledge and traditions, and to our ancestors who watch over us. Koselomolpa!
Psi-te ntolonapemok!
To all our connections!
