Indigenous English in Canada facts for kids

Indigenous English, also known as First Nations English, refers to special ways of speaking English used by the Indigenous peoples of Canada. These groups include the First Nations, Métis, and Inuit. To someone from outside Canada, Indigenous English might sound similar to regular Canadian English. However, it has enough unique features that people can often tell it apart from mainstream Canadian speech.

This unique sound comes from a mix of things. One big reason is the influence of Indigenous languages. Many Indigenous people also lived, or still live, in remote communities, in the North, or on reserves. This history of living in isolated areas has helped their English develop in its own way.

In the past, some forms of Indigenous English were seen as "non-standard." This sometimes led to misunderstandings. For example, some Indigenous children were wrongly thought to have speech or learning difficulties because of how they spoke English. Today, many experts and teachers believe that Indigenous varieties of English are valid and important. They are seen as a part of Indigenous culture and should be accepted in Canadian schools.

What is Indigenous English?

Indigenous English is a unique way of speaking English. It is used by First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people across Canada. It's not just one single way of speaking. Instead, it includes different styles and accents. These styles have grown over many years. They reflect the rich history and diverse cultures of Indigenous communities.

How is it Different?

Indigenous English has certain sounds and ways of putting words together that are different from standard Canadian English. These differences are often subtle. They might include how certain words are pronounced. They can also involve how sentences are structured. These features make Indigenous English distinct. They show the influence of traditional Indigenous languages.

Why Did it Develop?

The development of Indigenous English is linked to history. When English first came to Canada, Indigenous peoples learned it. They often blended it with their own languages. This created new ways of speaking. Living in remote communities or on reserves also played a role. It meant that some communities were more isolated. This allowed their unique English styles to grow without much outside influence.

Understanding and Acceptance

For a long time, Indigenous English was not always understood or accepted by everyone. Sometimes, people thought it was "incorrect" English. This led to challenges for Indigenous speakers. Today, there is a growing understanding. Many people now recognize Indigenous English as a valid and important part of Canadian culture. It is seen as a sign of cultural identity. It is also a way to connect with heritage.

Indigenous English in Stories

Few books are written entirely in Indigenous English dialects. One special example is Stories of the Road Allowance People by Maria Campbell. This book is a collection of Métis folktales. It shows how Elders in rural Métis communities spoke. Some stories were first told in Cree or other languages. Maria Campbell then translated them into this unique English style. Here is a short example from her book:

Dere wasen very much he can steal from dah table anyways
'cept da knives and forks.
An Margareet he knowed he wouldn dare take dem
cause dat woman you know
hees gots a hell of a repetation for being a hardheaded woman
when he gets mad.
Dat man he have to be a *** fool to steal from hees table. - Dah Teef

See also

• Australian Aboriginal English
• American Indian English