Oinpegitjoig Attends the 2026 Wabanaki Languages Gathering

From March 19–21, 2026, members of Oinpegitjoig (Pabineau First Nation) travelled to Fredericton to participate in the Wabanaki Languages Gathering, held at the Fredericton Inn. The three-day gathering brought together community members, educators, elders, students, language advocates, and scholars from across Wabanaki territory to celebrate and strengthen the revitalization of our Indigenous languages.

This year’s gathering centered on the theme “Youth Carrying Our Languages Forward.” The event highlighted the powerful role young people play in the future of language revitalization while creating opportunities for learning, connection, and collaboration between generations.

A proud group from Oinpegitjoig attended the conference, including six students, parents, and members of our education team. During the gathering, representatives from our community had the opportunity to present a video and speak on stage, sharing the important work being done in Oinpegitjoig to support language learning and cultural revitalization.

The conference featured a rich program of workshops, panels, and performances, including youth plenary discussions and sessions focused on curriculum development, storytelling, language rematriation, and best practices for immersion programs. Participants also enjoyed musical performances from Jeremy Dutcher and Roger Paul, whose contributions celebrated the beauty and strength of Wabanaki languages and culture.

Our Education Director - Felicia shared their reflections on the experience:

“What an inspiring time at the Wabanaki Language Gathering in Fredericton. It was so good to see our educators, parents, students, elders, and knowledge keepers come together to celebrate and strengthen our Wabanaki languages. We are so proud to represent our community and be part of this. We took six students, parents, and most of our education team to the conference, where we presented a video and stood on stage to speak about what we are doing in our community. The entire conference was very informative and uplifting, with great vendors and wonderful conversations. We had a strong group from our community there, and we are very proud.”

Events like the Wabanaki Languages Gathering remind us that language revitalization is a shared responsibility and a collective journey. Through collaboration, mentorship, and community leadership, we continue to honour our ancestors while empowering the next generation of speakers.

Oinpegitjoig remains committed to strengthening Mi’gmaq language learning and supporting opportunities for youth to carry our language forward.

Siawita’ieg. Wela’lieg to the planning committee and the Mi’kmaq Wolastoqey Centre for organizing such a meaningful and uplifting gathering for our communities.