Nēhiyawēwin: The Spirit Wants to Hear the Language

Topic: Nēhiyawēwin: The Spirit Wants to Hear the Language

At the Sakewew High School in North Battleford, educator Celeste Tootoosis (Flying Eagle Woman) and Elder Senapan Thunder share the importance of language, culture, and the four parts of wâhkôhtowin (kinship). Drawing on family experiences and working with youth, they reflect on how reconnecting to language, identity, and spirit can foster healing, pride, and belonging. Through education and cultural revitalization, they encourage the next generation to carry on the Nēhiyaw (Cree) language and traditions forward with strength and purpose.

Provided By National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation

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Video duration: 11:14 min

NCTR Videos, First Nations, Grades 5-6, Grades 7-8, Grades 9-10, Grades 11-12, English, 2026

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NCTR's spirit name - bezhig miigwan, meaning "one feather".

Bezhig miigwan calls upon us to see each Survivor coming to the NCTR as a single eagle feather and to show those Survivors the same respect and attention an eagle feather deserves. It also teaches we are all in this together — we are all one, connected, and it is vital to work together to achieve reconciliation.