The first annual Kenhtè:ke Language Symposium brought together approximately forty community members, language learners, educators, and organizational representatives — from both on and off territory — to share the breadth and depth of Kanyen'kéha language work currently underway in Kenhtè:ke. The gathering was organized by Karahkwinéhtha Jessica Brant, the MBQ Kanyen'kéha Coordinator, with the intention of connecting organizations, celebrating progress, and collectively envisioning the future of the language in the community.
The symposium featured presentations from five organizations and community programs, followed by a community visioning and goal-setting activity. The event reflects efforts to engage community in shaping the direction of the coordinated language revitalization movement in Kenhtè:ke and will inform the ongoing priorities of the MBQ Kanyen'kéha Coordinator role.
The Language Coordinator opened the symposium with an overview of the role, its history, and the work undertaken to date.
TTO's presentation outlined programming across early childhood, elementary, and adult language learning, plus the development of the new Language and Cultural Centre.
This presentation highlighted the integration of Kanyen'kéha at QMS, sharing the challenges and successes experienced by language educators.
An innovative and holistic approach to language and cultural education at the secondary level, integrating ceremony, storytelling, business, and the arts.
A powerful model of self-motivated, community-driven fluency development co-founded in 2019 by Tayewatonti (Chelsea Sunday) and Konwenhní:iostha following graduation from Ratiwennahnírats in Kahnawà:ke.
For Kanyen'kéha to be spoken freely in all spaces by kids, adults, and Elders alike.
Feeling safe to take up space and having enough space for everyone.
For the language community of Kenhtè:ke to build relationships and gather together often for social activities in Kanyen'kéha.
More funding for language programs, more after school groups, and radio and podcasts.
Hearing Kanien'kéha everywhere I go, getting more community members to care and be motivated to learn.
Creating space for the language to thrive in the urban community — to see Kanyen'kéha throughout Kingston and in public spaces.
For everyone to reach a speaking level that brings them happiness and health.
For it to be normal for people to speak the language instead of English.
To have more language taught in schools both on and off territory.
To have the language spoken on and off territory with fluency.
Healed from language insecurities; communities of practice for all levels of proficiency.
Our community collectively using Kanyen'kéha comfortably and confidently.
Kenhtè:ke where language, culture, and well-being thrive, are communally supported, and are seen in all spaces.
Kanyen'kéha spoken throughout the community — everywhere you go you will hear the language and find someone to speak to.
To have all households creating first-language speakers.
Encouraging store owners to support the language by teaching staff and using Kanyen'kéha in their businesses.
A culture and language school from JK to Grade 12 that welcomes all children, where parents can confidently enrol their kids knowing they will leave with the language and an education equivalent to any non-immersion school.
For all community members to be on board for building language fluency, with language laws for all to work toward and family support structures in place.
Community confidence. Language everywhere — to hear, see, and speak it — in gas stations, retail, administration buildings, and at events.
The importance of building confidence and creating accessible, welcoming entry points for learners at all stages.
The critical role of sustained support for learners after formal programs end.
The power of community networks and peer support for advancing fluency.
The need for dedicated, equitable funding for language educators and programs.
The vision of Kanyen'kéha as a living, everyday language — heard in homes, schools, businesses, and public spaces throughout Kenhtè:ke and beyond.
The community's visioning goals speak to a shared desire: a Kenhtè:ke where Kanyen'kéha is not only taught but lived, not only learned but freely spoken, and not only preserved but fully restored — heard, seen, and felt — as the language of daily life for all generations. These goals will continue to inform and guide the work of organizations, educators, and community members across Kenhtè:ke in the years ahead.