Language

The Ojibwe, or Chippewa, are known by several names. However, they typically refer to themselves as the Anishinaabe which translates to "people from whence lowered" or "spontaneous man" (Warren 2009; 19-27) 

Anishinaabe is also a term used for the Algonquin language that the Ojibwe traditionally used. 

Today there are very few fluent speakers. It is estimated that there are less than one thousand fluent speakers in the state of Minnesota - The Ojibwe language is considered an endangered language (The Ojibwe People's Dictionary 2015). 

However, efforts are being made in order to preserve the language, and the traditions and stories that the language holds. Many Ojibwe are taking the initiative to preserve their folklore and make their language more accessible (The Ojibwe People's Dictionary 2015). Through programs and through partnerships with local high schools, the Ojibwe are "connecting people across issues and communities" and creating social change (Kodish 2013). This is most evident in that local high schools and colleges are now integrating Anishinaabe into the language coursework they offer (The Ojibwe People's Dictionary 2015).