Episode 9: Adam Mack
Adam Mack grew up in one of the northernmost communities in Ontario, near the Hudson Bay coast where polar bears wandered through the community. For high school, he relocated down to St. Catharines, one of the southernmost cities in the province. After resettling in Timmins and a stint working with Indigenous people in the justice system, Adam is now working to revitalize the Cree language and learning Cree himself through his role with Mushkegowuk Council as the Cree language assistant.
In this episode, Adam talks about shooting his first caribou, working with Indigenous inmates in the regional correctional centre, and developing materials for Cree language learners from a second-language perspective.
Also, Lenny discusses grief and burnout after the spring goose hunt which led to the extended break from his Cree learning and the podcast. He reflects on his journey to date and the responsibilities and goals of the podcast, and the pressure he places on himself.
About our guest: Adam is from Peawanuck, ON, (Weenusk First Nation) which is one of the most northern First Nation’s in Ontario. He attended high school in St. Catharines, ON, which is one of the southernmost cities in Ontario.
Originally wanting to pursue medical studies, he attended Northern College but changed paths to move towards law. He gained valuable experience working at Nishnawbe Aski Legal Services for 4+ years. Working at NAN Legal, he undertook special projects such as working inside the regional correctional facility to assist with reducing indigenous overincarceration rates. Much of his experience involves working at regional levels and has gained valuable experience in understanding the dynamics of inequity faced by Omushkego people.
After gaining the legal experience he wanted, Adam wished to further his understanding and ability to speak the Cree language. He switched gears to work as a language assistant, working directly with an Elder who understands and teaches several dialects of Cree.
Currently, he has been digitizing older Cree material and creating newer forms of Cree resources. He hosts language classes for Omushkego youth at the Mushkegowuk Tribal Council in Timmins. He has held presentations for the Cree teachers of Mushkegowuk communities to assist with evolving teaching methods. Additionally, he has created his own syllabic font, custom charts, animated videos, and adapted the Canadian Language Benchmark concept to map out a continuum of Cree language learners. Ideally, to demonstrate profiles, goals, and lessons that guide each learner’s step of their journey.
The Language – Podcast co-hosted by Mskwaankwad Rice and Jessica Shonias, two Anishinaabemowin learners and teachers who discuss issues and their journey in revitalizing their language.
Apisheesh is supported by the Indigenous Screen Office.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.