The goal of the project is to co-create an on-line, multimedia linguistic atlas of Algonquian languages and to create contacts between curriculum developers, language specialists and lexicographers of Algonquian languages, with a focus on on-line language resources and dictionaries.
We investigate user-friendly and culturally appropriate computing interfaces and database structures. We encourage dialogue, share our Open Source programs, and provide linguistic and computer training and technical support.
This project is a fertile ground for knowledge transfer and mutual inspiration, with all parties working in a collaborative spirit. Our ultimate goal is to make sure that the beautiful Algonquian languages and the cultures they embody will be heard and spoken by many more generations to come.
This project was co-created in 2005 by Prof. Junker, from Carleton University, Prof. MacKenzie from Memorial University, the Department of Cree Programs of the Cree School Board in Quebec, the Gift of Language and Culture (Saskatchewan Cree), the Innu Education Authority in Labrador, and l’Institut Tshakapesh (formerly Institut culturel et éducatif montagnais) in Quebec. The first phase (2005-2009) of the project was funded by a Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council grant #856-2004-1028.
The second phase (2010-2014), funded by SSHRC grant # 856-2009-0081, involved all original partners and co-creators, as well as new co-investigators: Prof. Arok Wolvengrey from First Nation University, Prof. Rand Valentine from University of Wisconsin & Lakehead University, and Prof. Nicole Rosen, University of Manitoba. Additional partner organizations were: Le Conseil de la Nation Atikamekw, the Naskapi Development Corporation, and the Membertou First Nation (Mi’kmaw).
The current phase (2014-2019), funded by SSHRC grant # 435-2014-1199, involves most of the previous partners, co-creators and co-investigators. Some of our new co-investigators/collaborators are Prof. John Nichols from University of Minnesota, Prof. Will Oxford from University of Manitoba, Prof. Inge Geene from University of Lethbridge and Dr. Heather Bliss from University of Victoria. Our new partners are the Mushkegowuk Council and the Cree Health Board. We are welcoming any Algonquian language or dialect that wishes to be represented. The atlas is also becoming a portal hosting a shared digital infrastructure for on-line Algonquian dictionaries.
Contact: Dr Marie-Odile Junker
School of Linguistics and Applied Language Studies
Carleton University