French, english and...Abenakis!

In presenting its language services policy, the 2013 edition of the Canada Summer Games has already shown a high level of innovation and achievement. In Sherbrooke, beside French and English we'll find...Abenakis!

There are 11 aboriginal languages in Quebec – why choose Abenakis?  Well, historically speaking, the Abenakis nation occupied the territory of what today is known as Sherbrooke. The Host Society will integrate not only language and cultural elements linked to this nation, but also develop projects with their community.

To achieve this, William, Lynn and Mireille visited the village of Odanak to meet with Michelle Bélanger, Executive Director of the Abenakis Museum (the oldest aboriginal museum in Quebec), and Christine Sioui, an Abenakis artist very engaged in her community. Together, they opened discussions on different possible projects that will highlight the Abenakis nation.

A second meeting should take place in the coming weeks to develop further their collaboration on this special project.  To be continued....