There are many other Indigenous languages spoken around the world. Anishinabek (Ojibway), Mushkegowuk (Cree), and Anisininew (Oji-Cree) are three of the Indigenous languages commonly spoken in our area, and throughout Canada. Ojibway, also spelled Ojibwe or Ojibwa, is an Algonquian language spoken by many Ojibwe people in Ontario, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan. Cree is an Algonquian language spoken by many Cree people in Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta. Oji-Cree is a hybrid language that combines elements of both languages, and is spoken in Northwestern Ontario and Mideastern Manitoba. These languages each have their own unique vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation.
An example of a common Anishinabek (Algonquian) word is “miigwech”.
“Miigwech” is commonly used to express gratitude or thanks in the Anishinabek language. It is a way of acknowledging the kindness or help received from someone. The word is often translated to “thank you” in English, but it carries a deeper meaning of appreciation and respect. It can be spelled a number of different ways. Algonquin was not traditionally a written language, so the spellings of Algonquin words in English may vary a lot depending on the dialect and region in which the language is spoken.
Spelling Examples:
- Miigwech
- Migwetch
- Mii gwech
- Miigwetch
- Migwech
- Mii gwech
- Meegwetch
Picture source: https://miidashgeget.wordpress.com/2019/01/26/proto-algonquian/
As a Hospital, we help patients who speak Indigenous languages by providing translation services for multiple languages, such as Anishinabek, Anisininew and Mushkegowuk. Providing care that is accessible to patients and their families is central to our mission, and we are committed to ensuring that language barriers do not prevent our patients from receiving the care they need.