CWB Financial Group supports continued delivery of Introduction to Anishinaabemowin (Ojibwe Language) at RRC Polytech.

For the second year in a row, RRC Polytech is proud to offer Introduction to Anishinaabemowin at no cost to students, thanks to the generous support of CWB Financial Group. This course is part of a broader commitment to Indigenous language revitalization – an effort that acknowledges the deep cultural significance of Anishinaabemowin and the urgent need to adapt and expand its use.

RRC Polytech is taking this commitment further with the launch of Conversational Anishinaabemowin, which is designed to deepen students’ engagement with the language. This course moves beyond foundational words and phrases and encourages learners to express more complex thoughts and sentiments, fostering fluency and confidence in a space where the language can truly come to life.

Language learning is more than memorization – it is an immersive, holistic experience that engages the body, mind, emotion, and spirit. The College, with support from CWB Financial Group, is embracing this approach to ensure that students not only learn Anishinaabemowin but also connect with it on a deeper level.

Corey Whitford, Anishinaabemowin instructor, says that his approach to teaching is rooted in engaging the senses and all parts of the self: the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual.

Aambe oma! Come here!

Physical – Engaging Senses and Going Places.

The best way to learn a language is to be surrounded by it. In-person classes provide an environment where students can hear Anishinaabemowin spoken naturally, feel the words in their mouths, and engage in conversations with others on the same journey. Whether a student grew up hearing snippets of the language, is already fluent, or is speaking their first words, everyone shares a common goal: to listen, practice, and learn.

Whitford is a life-long speaker and teacher, and leads the way to help students build confidence as they join a growing community of language speakers. Coming to class and being in spaces with fellow learners will solidify learning.

Gikinawaabam. Learn by observation.

Mental – Building Knowledge and Taking Risks

Language learning requires dedication and mental engagement. Retaining vocabulary and sentence structures happens best in an immersive setting, where students are free from distractions and focused on the shared learning experience. It’s not just about attending class; it’s about showing up for the language and for one another. Making connections, taking risks, and actively participating in the learning process strengthens memory and reinforces knowledge. Learning Anishinaabemowin is an investment in yourself and in the future of the language.

“I had some aunts and uncles that spoke – I wish I picked the language up sooner. I practice what I learn every day with my son. At four years old, he’s at that stage where he copies everything you say,” says Boogie Man, Automotive alum. He says that once he’s finished Introduction to Anishinaabemowin, he’s going directly into Conversational Anishinaabemowin in May to continue his studies.

Zaagichigaade. It is loved (by someone).

Emotional – Connecting with Passion and Purpose

We retain information best when we feel connected to what we are learning. Anishinaabemowin is more than just words – it carries history, identity, and cultural knowledge. Our classes are led by a passionate instructor who inspires students to step outside their comfort zones and embrace the challenge. By making space for the language, students are actively participating in its reclamation and revitalization, demonstrating the need for more accessible language learning opportunities for Indigenous communities worldwide. Learning the language is an act with purpose.

Wiidosendiwag. They walk together.

Spiritual – Embracing the Process with an Open Heart

One of the greatest challenges Indigenous people face in learning Anishinaabemowin is overcoming the internalized shame of not knowing the language. This is not a personal failing – it is the result of systemic efforts to erase Indigenous languages. Many learners struggle with the fear of failure, but true growth comes from embracing the process. By learning Anishinaabemowin, students are not only reclaiming something that was taken from their ancestors but also contributing to the survival of the language for future generations. Speaking the language is an act of resilience, a way to honor those who came before, and a gift to those who will come after.

“Go to people who have the language. The language lives with people who are fluent and people who have lived life through that linguistic experience,” said Whitford. “We encourage everyone who’s interested in our language to come and learn along with us and help us revitalize Anishinaabemowin.”

The journey of learning Anishinaabemowin is about more than just gaining a new skill – it is about reconnecting with identity, culture, and community. Every student who joins these classes plays a role in the larger movement of language revitalization. As we continue to offer free access to these courses, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that Anishinaabemowin not only survives but thrives.

By showing up, engaging, and embracing the language, students are making a powerful statement: this language matters, this culture is alive, and the future of Anishinaabemowin is worth fighting for.

To register for Introduction to Anishinaabemowin or Conversational Anishinaabemowin, generously support by CWB Financial Group, visit the Program Explorer page.

Ahaam sa, mi minik. Okay, that is all!