To Wake Up the Nakota Language

Across North America, Indigenous languages are at risk of disappearing. "When you don't know your language or your culture, you don't know who you are," says Armand McArthur, one of the last fluent Nakota speakers in Pheasant Rump First Nation, Treaty 4 territory, in southern Saskatchewan. With an eye to the future, this 69-year-old is committed to revitalizing his language for his community and future generations. Reflecting upon the land his ancestors have called home for centuries, he brings that connection to a classroom for people of all ages, who gather to share knowledge, laughter and a way of life.

Dans toute l'Amérique du Nord, les langues autochtones risquent de disparaître. «Quand tu ne connais ni ta langue ni ta culture, tu ne sais pas qui tu es», affirme Armand McArthur, l'une des dernières personnes à parler couramment le nakota dans la bande Pheasant Rump Nakota, sur le territoire du Traité no 4, dans le sud de la Saskatchewan. En prévision de l'avenir, l'homme de 69 ans est déterminé à revitaliser sa langue pour sa communauté et les générations futures. Dans une salle de classe où les gens de tous âges se rassemblent pour partager savoir et mode de vie dans de grands éclats de rire, il ravive le lien avec la terre qui fut pendant des siècles le domaine de ses ancêtres.

At age 81, Pete Standing Alone has come full-circle in his dedication to preserving the traditional ways of his people. The third film in a trilogy, Round Up traces Pete's personal journey from cultural alienation to pride and belonging. As a spiritual elder, teacher, and community leader of the Kainai (Blood) of Southern Alberta, Pete's efforts to rebuild the cultural and spiritual decimation wrought by residential schools have focused on teaching youth the traditional ways. In his own words: "It is our duty and responsibility as Blood Indians to keep our ways going." Education guide available on nfb.ca/guides.