Jennifer Tendoy

Tānsi Nowākōmākantik Kawikwanēw Iskwēw nisīkason. Asinīwacisik ōchi nīya. Ēkōta ōchi ēkīopikiyān. Nīstanō kāskatiniw Pīsim ēwītipskamān. Nēwomitino nitatopiponān. I am a mother of three. Nanāskōmon kōtāwīno for allowing me to be one of the language trainees of the Mahchiminahtik Chippewa and Cree Revitalization. I am very fortunate and thankful to the program for the opportunity to learn the language. I knew a little when I started but couldn't put words together myself to conversate now for sure I understand lots .ore and could hold small conversations. I am very proud of myself and my co-trainees. Through language, eight have learned sīpētamowin (patience)for my kids and just people in general. I have learned not to react fast or harshly to situations. Before being hired, I was kind of mean and quick-tempered. The language has taught me to think first, mostly to pray first. To be more kind and caring to all people and situations in life. I found that by teaching my kids the language, they have built up more confidence and good self-esteem, making them learn more respect. My parents, Kēkēkwīno Merle Tendoy Sr. Kākitīt and Jean Azure Tendoy, raised me in ceremony and always taught me to be proud of who I am and where I came from. We aren't Nēhīyo if we can't speak the language. We can't have ceremonies, cultures, or customs without our language.

— Jennifer Tendoy