Izhi-Nizha’ Amaadiwinan – Messages

Northwestern Ontario has always been renowned for the local strength of the Native language and cultural tradition. With the majority of the communities having maintained their relationship with the land, First Nation culture has continued to flourish in the Rainy River District despite considerable pressures imposed by outside governments, agencies and society.

However, the cultural richness of this area is one which has been preserved entirely by older community members and Elders. Currently, traditional Anishinaabe culture, particularly the Ojibwe language, is rapidly disappearing amongst the native youth. With virtually no children or youth under twenty five with any demonstrable ability to communicate with Elders in their own Native language, the cultural transmission from one generation to the next has been greatly compromised.

In 2001, an Elders gathering was held at Ober’s Island in order to establish protocols and restore this imperative link. It was determined that materials be necessitated to preserve and transmit traditional knowledge for Native youth and future generations.

“Izhi-Nizha’ Amaadiwinan – Messages” is a unique educational tool which contains hours of teachings from Elders within the First Nation communities of the Rainy River District. The Elders, through this CD-Rom, have expressed their concerns, teachings, and glimpse into the past in which they feel are important to assist Native youth and future generations in living a good life.

Within this CD-ROM participants will be introduced to:

·         Historical and Cultural Perspectives

·         Anishinaabeg Traditional Values and Beliefs

·         Anishinaabeg Seasonal Harvesting Activities

·         Anishinaabeg Medicines and Plant Usage and Identification

·         Anishinaabeg social structure

·         Anishinaabeg Daily Ceremonies

·         Anishinaabeg Language pertaining to Rainy River District

Izhi-Nizha’ Amaadiwinan Messages CD is available for purchase at our main office. $25.

or check out our other Anishinaabe Materials we have to offer.