Moose Cree language facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Moose Cree |
|
|---|---|
| Ililîmowin ᐃᓕᓖᒧᐎᓐ |
|
| Native to | Canada |
| Region | Ontario |
| Ethnicity | 5,000 Moose Cree (1982) |
| Native speakers | 3,000 (2007)e25 |
| Language family |
Algic
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| Linguasphere | 62-ADA-ae |
|
|
Moose Cree is a special way of speaking the Cree language. Most people who speak it live in a place called Moose Factory, which is in Ontario, Canada.
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What is Moose Cree?
Moose Cree is a type of Cree language. The Cree language is part of a bigger group called the Algonquian languages. These languages are all connected and belong to an even larger family called Algic languages. Think of it like a big family tree for languages!
Where Does the Name Come From?
The name Moose Cree comes from words about moose. It might come from Môsoniy, which means 'Moose Island'. This island was a summer gathering spot for the people who speak this language.
It could also come from Môso-sîpiy, meaning 'Moose River'. This is the name of the river where Moose Island is located.
Today, the island is officially called Moose Factory. This name reminds us of an old trading post built by the Hudson's Bay Company. These trading posts were often called 'factories' back then. The people who speak this language call it Ililîmowin.
Is it an Official Language?
In Ontario, the Cree language, including Moose Cree, is not an official language. This means it doesn't have special legal status like English or French.
How is it Written?
Moose Cree is usually written using a special writing system called Eastern Cree syllabics. This system uses unique shapes that stand for whole syllables, not just single letters. It's a bit like writing with small pictures for sounds.
This syllabic writing is used in places where the Anglican church was strong, like Fort Albany First Nation and Moose Factory in Ontario. It's also used in Cree communities in Quebec.
People also use the Latin alphabet (the one we use for English) to write Moose Cree. Sometimes it's used in hymn books or other local materials. There are also efforts to create a standard way to write Cree using the Latin alphabet for teaching.
