Mi'kmaw Language Outreach

Job Description 

Mi’kmaw Language Outreach

Division:
Language and Culture

Location:
Membertou, Nova Scotia

Language:
English, required, fluency in spoken Mi’kmaw required

Reports to:
Director of Mi’kmaw Language and Culture

Date:
December 2024

This is a newly created position to extend the impact of Language and Culture projects and initiatives.  As such, the incumbent will need to work effectively with the Language and Culture Team members.  Please note that the concepts presented here will be developed in conjunction with the Director of Language and Culture but it is expected that the successful candidate will be prepared to contribute to new and innovative ways of promoting Mi’kmaw language.

Client Service Results:

Ewla'sik Ktli'sutiminu.  Our Language is Sleeping.  

Let’s wake it up. 

As part of the Mi’kmaw Language and Culture Team, the  Mi’kmawLanguage Outreach Coordinator will connect with communities and Elders to develop/design and support 

new strategies and support for the revitalization of the Mi’kmaw language and culture, including creating projects and resources that  remember the ‘old Mi’kmaw’.  The connections may relate to Language and Culture initiatives, but also other initiatives such as Red Road, Treaty Education, ECE, Sport, etc.  We anticipate that the job responsibilities may evolve as this is an area of growth and development.

Summary of Duties:

 The incumbent must have a demonstrated commitment to, and passion for,  Mi’kmaw language and culture, and the Sacred Teachings.  As a fluent speaker,  the individual must demonstrate and model a commitment to the revitalization of the language through the speaking of Mi’kmaw at all opportunities.

Work with members of the Language and Culture team to identify new or expanded opportunities for communities to increase the speaking of Mi’kmaw.  Support team members in maximizing impact by partnering on projects.  Engage with Elders in supporting the work of Language and Culture.  Early focus for this new position will include methods to bring the language to yet untapped areas of opportunity for young or aspiring speakers, including children in Early Childhood Centres and K-4.

Establish a network of like-minded community resources to support the continued development of community programs and activities that inspire the speaking of Mi’kmaw. 

Sample project ideas to begin this vital work:

• examining current MK resources, including videos, to capture ‘old’ Mi’kmaw terms/words that have the potential to be revitalized


• create projects, strategies, events to bring these words back to life to create a blended Mi’kmaw word bank (old and new)


• review MK bank of videos to identify ‘older’ Mi’kmaw words or phrases


• work with the team members to brainstorm new strategies to support the use of Mi’kmaw language in the home by outreach to parents to identify what strategies work best 


• support projects/initiatives already planned to expand their impact, for example, planned projects with ECE to add new activities that could engage Elders/parents either in the project, or while the project is operating


• Work with Red Road Coordinator to support work with youth, for example, supporting the operation of sweat lodges and/or engaging in Mi’maw conversations to mentor  youth


• Maintain open and frequent communication with Elders and Knowledge Keepers of the 12 MK communities


• Work with the Director and Mi’kmaw Language team to plan new initiatives for the MK 2025 operating plan


• Investigate the necessary resources to launch a Mi’kmaw sign language program for non-verbal youth


• Other job related projects.

Education/Experience:

• College diploma or baccalaureate degree in an area that supports Mi’kmaw studies, language and culture.   Alternatively, someone with exceptional traditional knowledge may be considered. 


• Experience and enthusiasm with ‘old Mi’maw’ and traditional knowledge is vital


• Minimum 2 years of related experience in a similar role/capacity


• Demonstrated success in working with Elders and community members essential

Skills:

• Excellent communicator and motivator


• Ability to effectively present information in Mi’kmaw in one-on-one and small group settings/situations with community members


• Experiencing working with and facilitating community groups


• Demonstrated experience with community mobilization, development and activation

Knowledge:

• Must be a fluent speaker


• First Nation demography in Nova Scotia


• Mi’kmaw culture and traditions

Personal Suitability:

• Lives life in a way that is consistent with the Mi’kmaw Sacred Teachings


• Reliable, with an ability to maintain confidentiality and confidences


• Effective team player


• Willingness and ability to travel


• Flexibility to meet work demands/requirements, including ability to work outside normal working hours


• Ability to accept and execute directions effectively