At Algonquin College, we freely acknowledge that we live, learn, and work on the traditional territory of the Algonquin people. As Canada moves along a path of truth and reconciliation, we will do our part to ensure that Indigenous ideas, knowledge, and culture are an integral part of everything we do.
As part of Algonquin College’s commitment to expanding the traditional Anishinàbe (ah-nish-in-AHH-bay) Algonquin Nation language on campus, we are sharing vocabulary, phrases and information to familiarize learners and employees with the traditional language.
Please join Anita Tenasco, Director, Indigenous Initiatives, in using the words and expressions on campus, in classrooms, with colleagues and with students.
Ayangwamizig (ah-YAHNG-gwah-mi-zig) translates to “I wish you all the best” in Anishinàbemowin.
An Introduction to Kwey
“Kwey” is an Algonquin greeting that means hello. We say “kwey” as we introduce you to a series of videos to familiarize you with words, expressions and phrases in the Anishinàbe (ahnishinAHHbay) Algonquin language, the traditional language of this region.
In 2022, major routes within and between each building on the Ottawa Campus were identified to become interior “pathways,” and were assigned an animal and a coordinating colour for enhanced wayfinding.
Animal Street Names
Four private streets on the Ottawa Campus are named official city streets in collaboration with the City of Ottawa. They are Wajashk (WAH-jashk) Private, Nigig (NIH-gig) Private, Adjidjàk (AH-gee-djak) Private & Wàbisheshì (WAH-BAH-SHesh-shee) Private.
Anishinàbe Algonquin Nation
Do you know that the Anishinàbe Algonquin Nation is the host Indigenous Nation in the Ottawa area? That means the Anishinàbe Algonquin Nation is the First Nation that has occupied this territory since time immemorial.
Chiefs
The current Chief of the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg is Chief Dylan Whiteduck and the current Chief of the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation is Chief Greg Sarazin.
Circle
As part of Algonquin College’s commitment to expanding the traditional Anishinàbe (ah-nish-in-AHH-bay) Algonquin Nation language on campus, we are sharing vocabulary, phrases and information to familiarize learners and employees with the traditional language.
Please join Anita Tenasco, Director, Indigenous Initiatives, in using the words and expressions on campus, in classrooms, with colleagues and with students.
Wákábiwag (wah-KAH-bi-wug) refers to being seated in a circle. For the Anishinàbe Algonquin Nation, the circle is very significant, as this is how our education took place — via talking circles, sharing circles, music circles, show and tell circles and storytelling circles.
Communities
Learn the names of the Anishinàbe Algonquin Nation’s communities including Kitigan Zibi Anishinàbeg, Algonquins of Barriere Lake, Kitcisakik and more.
Courage
As part of Algonquin College’s commitment to expanding the traditional Anishinàbe (ah-nish-in-AHH-bay) Algonquin Nation language on campus, we are sharing vocabulary, phrases and information to familiarize learners and employees with the traditional language.
The fourth Grandfather Teaching in Anishinàbe culture is Songemindizòwin (sung-geh-min-doh-ZOH-win), which means “courage”. Courage is to do the things that are difficult but need to be done or said, even in the most difficult of times. Being a brave role model, even when it goes against your peers. The animal that teaches us the lesson of Songemindizòwin is Makwa (MUH-kwa), the bear.
Fall
As part of Algonquin College’s commitment to expanding the traditional Anishinàbe (ah-nish-in-AHH-bay) Algonquin Nation language on campus, we are sharing vocabulary, phrases and information to familiarize learners and employees with the traditional language.
Please join Anita Tenasco, Director, Indigenous Initiatives, in using the words and expressions on campus, in classrooms, with colleagues and with students.
Tagwàge (Ta-GWAH-geh) is the word for the fall season in Anishinàbe. Mino tagwàge means “have a good fall season.” Mino tagwàge!
G-I
Gathering Strength
Nawapon (NAW-wah-PUN) is an Algonquin word that translates to “gathering strength for the journey.” Nawapon is located next to the Ishkodewan courtyard and is often used as a gathering place.
Greetings
“Kwey” means hello in the Anishinàbe Algonquin language and “Kwey kakina” means hello everyone. “Madjashin” is the word for good-bye.
Hello my friend
As part of Algonquin College’s commitment to expanding the traditional Anishinàbe (ah-nish-in-AHH-bay) Algonquin Nation language on campus, we are sharing vocabulary, phrases and information to familiarize learners and employees with the traditional language.
Please join Anita Tenasco, Director, Indigenous Initiatives, in using the words and expressions on campus, in classrooms, with colleagues and with students.
Kwey ni-wìdjikiwe (KWAY nih-weDIJ-KIH-weh) means “hello my friend” in Anishinàbemowin. Kwey ni-wìdjikiwe!
Hockey
Did you know that John Chabot and the late Gino Odjick were both NHL hockey players? John Chabot and Gino Odjick hailed from the Kitigan Zibi Anishinàbeg.
Honesty
As part of Algonquin College’s commitment to expanding the traditional Anishinàbe (ah-nish-in-AHH-bay) Algonquin Nation language on campus, we are sharing vocabulary, phrases and information to familiarize learners and employees with the traditional language.
The fifth Grandfather Teaching in Anishinàbe culture is Tebwe (TEB-way), which means “honesty.” We behave in an honest way, when we say and act in an honest way with no hidden agenda. To be honest with yourself, every action will provide good feelings in your heart and head. The creature that teaches us about honesty is the Bigfoot.
How are you
As part of Algonquin College’s commitment to expanding the traditional Anishinàbe (ah-nish-in-AHH-bay) Algonquin Nation language on campus, we are sharing vocabulary, phrases and information to familiarize learners and employees with the traditional language.
Please join Anita Tenasco, Director, Indigenous Initiatives, in using the words and expressions on campus, in classrooms, with colleagues and with students.
To ask how someone is doing in Anishinàbe, we say: Ànìn dush èpideg (ah-NEEN dush eh-PIH-deg)? “How are you?” To say “see you later” in Anishinàbemowin we say kiga wàbàmin nànàge (KI-gah wah-bah-min nah-GAN-eh).
Humility
As part of Algonquin College’s commitment to expanding the traditional Anishinàbe (ah-nish-in-AHH-bay) Algonquin Nation language on campus, we are sharing vocabulary, phrases and information to familiarize learners and employees with the traditional language.
The sixth Grandfather Teaching in Anishinàbe culture is Tabasenindizòwin (tabass-sin-INODSZ-awin), which means “humility.” Humility is to be modest in one’s self-importance, to see that everyone is equal and to know that no one is better or less. The animal that we as Anishinàbe people often associate with humility is the wolf — Mahìngan (mah-HING-gaan).
Introduction
As part of Algonquin College’s commitment to expanding the traditional Anishinàbe (ah-nish-in-AHH-bay) Algonquin Nation language on campus, we will be sharing vocabulary, phrases and information to familiarize learners and employees with the traditional language.
These videos will include greetings and common phrases. Towards the end of the month, as we prepare for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we will be joined by Mamidosewin (mah-mey-DOE-SEH-win) Centre Indigenous Student Counsellor Vanessa Mongo Stevens who will share more about the Seven Grandfather Teachings as well as expressions of healing and understanding.
We are pleased to bring you another edition as we kick off our 2024 Fall Term and welcome new and returning learners to our campus.
Please join Anita Tenasco, Director, Indigenous Initiatives, in using the words and expressions on campus, in classrooms, with colleagues and with students.
K-N
Kichi Zibi
Do you know that “Kichi Zibi Mikan” means the “Great River Road” in the Anishinàbe Algonquin language?
Kichi Zibi Mikan
Do you know that “Kichi Zibi Mikan” means the “Great River Road” in Anishìnàbemowin? Are you aware that the “Great River”, the “Kichi Zibi” is the original name in Anishìnàbemowin for what is now known as the Ottawa River?
Knowledge Keeper’s Place
Kejeyàdizidjigwogamig is an Algonquin word meaning “Knowledge Keeper’s Place.” Kejeyàdizidjigwogamig is a study space for students and a place to acquire Indigenous knowledge from our library.
Kwey Third Edition
Welcome to the third edition of “Kwey,” Algonquin College’s Indigenous Language Video Series. “Kwey” is an Algonquin greeting that means hello. The upcoming videos you will see over the next few months will focus on words and phrases related to Algonquin College.
Language
The names and places on our campuses come from the Anishinàbe (ah-NISH-in-AHH-bey) and Ojibway (oh-JIB-way) cultures. We embrace and champion the Anishinabemowin language.
Legislation
Have you heard of the Indian Act of 1876? This antiquated piece of Canadian legislation has impacted the Anishinàbe Algonquin Nation and all First Nations across the country.
Love
As part of Algonquin College’s commitment to expanding the traditional Anishinàbe (ah-nish-in-AHH-bay) Algonquin Nation language on campus, we are sharing vocabulary, phrases and information to familiarize learners and employees with the traditional language.
The second Grandfather Teaching in Anishinàbe culture is Sàgihidìwin (sah-GIH-dey-win), which means “love.” Love is to be at peace with yourself and to be able to express connection to your family, friends and community through your actions and words, using language that reflects the kindness in your heart. The animal that teaches us of the creator’s love for us is Kiniw, (Kih-new) which means eagle.
Mamidosewin
“Mamidosewin” (MAH-MI-doe-seh-win) is Algonquin for “Meeting place” or “Gathering place.” The Mamidosewin Centre on campus strives to build a community that embodies this sentiment.
Medicine Wheel
Our Pembroke Campus is home to an Indigenous Medicine Wheel Garden Kichitwàwiz-i Mashkikì Kitigànens (Kih-chi-twah-wiz-ih Mush-kee-kee Kih-ti-gah-nehs).
Members
Do you know that the Anishinàbe Algonquin Nation has over 11,000 members and that the Anishinàbe Algonquin communities are located within Quebec & Ontario. Kitigan Zibi Anishinàbeg and Pikwakanagan are the two communities closest to the Ottawa area.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
As part of Algonquin College’s commitment to expanding the traditional Anishinàbe (ah-nish-in-AHH-bay) Algonquin Nation language on campus, we are sharing vocabulary, phrases and information to familiarize learners and employees with the traditional language.
Sept. 30 is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada. This important day brings to light the painful history of all First Nations, Métis and Inuit children who attended Canada’s residential schools and all First Nations, Métis and Inuit children who did not make it home from the residential schools across the country. Mámawe-mashkawi-nánìbawidá (mah-ma-weh mush-ka-we nah-ni-ba-wi-dah) means “together we stand in unity.” It is time for all of us to learn the complete history, the true history of Canada.
Nice Day
As part of Algonquin College’s commitment to expanding the traditional Anishinàbe (ah-nish-in-AHH-bay) Algonquin Nation language on campus, we are sharing vocabulary, phrases and information to familiarize learners and employees with the traditional language.
Please join Anita Tenasco, Director, Indigenous Initiatives, in using the words and expressions on campus, in classrooms, with colleagues and with students.
Did you know mino kìjigad (mi-NO key-ZSHI-gud) means “it is a nice day?” Mino kìjigad!
O-S
Ottawa – Adawe
Do you know that the city of Ottawa is in the heart of the Anishinàbe Algonquin Nation’s traditional, unceded territory? Ottawa is connected to the word “adawe”, which means “to trade”.
Past, Present, Future
Pìdàban (pih-DAH-bun) translates to “past, present and future” and alludes to the natural phenomena of daybreak, the moment when night becomes a new day. Pìdàban is the Institute for Indigenization in Room C251 on the second floor of the DARE District.
Pathways
The five major corridors and Pathways on the Ottawa Campus include Màkwa (bear), Mahingan (wolf), Tendesi (blue jay), Mònz (moose) and Wàwàskeshi (deer).
Please and Thank You
Do you know that “migwech” is the Anishinàbe Algonquin word for “Thank you”and the word for please is “enabigis”?
Publication
Are you aware that the Kitigan Zibi Anishinàbeg First Nation published its own history book in 2004 entitled “Since Time Immemorial – Our Story – The Story of the Kitigan Zibi Anishinàbeg”?
Respect
As part of Algonquin College’s commitment to expanding the traditional Anishinàbe (ah-nish-in-AHH-bay) Algonquin Nation language on campus, we are sharing vocabulary, phrases and information to familiarize learners and employees with the traditional language.
The third Grandfather Teaching in Anishinàbe culture is Mànadjìhidiwin (maw-na-DIJ-di-win), which means “respect.” Respect is to accept everyone as they are without judgment, gossip or intolerance. Respect the creator’s work, including yourself. The animal that teaches us of respect for all living things is the buffalo — Pijakì (pihj-JHAK-kee).
Samuel de Champlain
Did you know that explorer Samuel de Champlain referred to the Anishinàbe Nation as the “Algonquin” back in the early 1600s and the Anishinàbe Algonquin Nation’s first contact with Samuel de Champlain took place in 1603?
School
As part of Algonquin College’s commitment to expanding the traditional Anishinàbe (ah-nish-in-AHH-bay) Algonquin Nation language on campus, we are sharing vocabulary, phrases and information to familiarize learners and employees with the traditional language.
Please join Anita Tenasco, Director, Indigenous Initiatives, in using the words and expressions on campus, in classrooms, with colleagues and with students.
Kikinàmàdinàn (kih-kih-NAH-min-mahdi-nahn) is the word for school in Anishinàbemowin (the Anishinàbe Algonquin language).
Smudging
As part of Algonquin College’s commitment to expanding the traditional Anishinàbe (ah-nish-in-AHH-bay) Algonquin Nation language on campus, we are sharing vocabulary, phrases and information to familiarize learners and employees with the traditional language.
Please join Anita Tenasco, Director, Indigenous Initiatives, in using the words and expressions on campus, in classrooms, with colleagues and with students.
Swame (SWAM-may) is the word for smudging with sweetgrass, tobacco, sage or cedar. Smudging is a purification ceremony that is carried out by lighting one or more of the four sacred medicines. Once the sacred medicines are lit in a shell or smudge bowl, the smoke is then fanned onto an individual’s hair, face and body.
Smudging is led by an Elder, Knowledge Keeper or a First Nations person who respects and practices the smudging ceremony.
Spring
There are two terms for spring in the Anishinàbe Algonquin language. Sigwan (SEE-gwan) is the word that describes the early spring season. Minokamin (min-OAK-A-min) is a word that describes the later part of spring.
Student Centre
Algonquin College’s Indigenous Student Center is called the Mamidosewin (maam-MI-DOE-seh-WIN), which is Algonquin/Ojibwe for “meeting place” or “walking together.”
Symbols
Within the Ishkodewan courtyard are many Indigenous symbols reflective of Anishinàbe culture and traditions. The symbols were created by Ryan Gorrie, a Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinàbek architect, and each symbol has a story.
T-Z
There is Fire
Ishkodewan (ish-KO-DEH-whan) means “there is fire.” Ishkodewan is the name of the outdoor courtyard, with its Gathering Circle and fire-vessel, on the main floor of Building C on the Ottawa campus.
Three Sisters
Algonquin College’s Ottawa Campus is home to the Three Sisters Garden. The Haudenosaunee, (hode-in-OH-show-nay) or “people of the longhouse,” are commonly referred to as Iroquois or Six Nations in what is now Northern New York State.
Trilingual
Did you know that the Anishinàbe Algonquin Nation’s members speak Anishinàbemowin (their traditional mother tongue), French and English so many are in fact, trilingual.
Truth
As part of Algonquin College’s commitment to expanding the traditional Anishinàbe (ah-nish-in-AHH-bay) Algonquin Nation language on campus, we are sharing vocabulary, phrases and information to familiarize learners and employees with the traditional language.
The last Grandfather Teaching in Anishinàbe culture is Tebwewin (teb-WHEY-win), which means “truth.” Truth is to know the value in these teachings and to live by them in all your words and actions. The animal that most reminds us of the teachings around Tebwewin is Mikinàk (mih-ki-nawk) — the turtle.
Umbrella
Did you know that “Indigenous” is an umbrella term for First Nations (status and non-status), Métis and Inuit. “Indigenous” refers to all these groups, either collectively or separately?
Updated Land Acknowledgement
As part of Algonquin College’s commitment to expanding the traditional Anishinàbe (ah-nish-in-AHH-bay) Algonquin Nation language on campus, we are sharing vocabulary, phrases and information to familiarize learners and employees with the traditional language.
Algonquin College has recently worked with members of the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg and Pikwakanagan communities to co-develop and update the Algonquin College land acknowledgement statement.
The goal of updating the land acknowledgement statement is to move forward together with respect and mutual learning. Attention is also given to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action. Land acknowledgements are living, actionable statements that require a commitment to a meaningful and respectful relationship between the host Nation and the institution honouring the land. A periodic update may occur as the work of the institution evolves.
This updated version of the Algonquin College Land Acknowledgement will be included in the course outlines for the 2024-2025 academic season distributed to more than 21,000 students. Visit the land acknowledgement page for more information.
Wayfinding
The Ottawa Campus recently named four City of Ottawa streets as part of an Indigenous wayfinding strategy. They include Wajashk Private, Nigig Private, Adjidjàk Private and Wàbisheshì Private.
Welcome
As part of Algonquin College’s commitment to expanding the traditional Anishinàbe (ah-nish-in-AHH-bay) Algonquin Nation language on campus, we are sharing vocabulary, phrases and information to familiarize learners and employees with the traditional language.
Please join Anita Tenasco, Director, Indigenous Initiatives, in using the words and expressions on campus, in classrooms, with colleagues and with students.
Pìjàshig kakina (PEE-zshaw-shig KAW-ki-naw)! This translates to “welcome everyone!” Pìjàshig kakina ondaje Algonquin College means “welcome everyone to Algonquin College.”
Wisdom
As part of Algonquin College’s commitment to expanding the traditional Anishinàbe (ah-nish-in-AHH-bay) Algonquin Nation language on campus, we are sharing vocabulary, phrases and information to familiarize learners and employees with the traditional language.
Kwey Kakina. My name is Vanessa Mongo Stevens from the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg and I am the Indigenous Student Counsellor for the Mamidosewin Centre.
Did you know now that the Mamidosewin Centre is centred on the values of the Seven Grandfather Teachings in Anishinàbe culture?
The first of these human values spoken in Anishinàbemowin is Kagitawendamowin (ka-GIH-ta-wen-DA-mo-win), which means “wisdom.” Wisdom is to learn from life experiences and teachers in our lives, including Elders and children. The animal that reminds us of the lessons of Kagitawendamowin is Amik (AH-mick), which means beaver.
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