Michif Language Conference
Michif Language

Call for Workshop Proposals

2026 Michif Language Summit & Conference

Hosted by: Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF) Michif Language Department
Dates: August 10-12, 2026
Location: Delta Hotel, Winnipeg, Manitoba

About the 2026 Michif Language Summit

The Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF) Michif Language Department invites workshop proposals for the 2026 Michif Language Summit & Conference, Lii vway di la tayaen'd niikinaahk: a three-day gathering dedicated to the revitalization, protection, and promotion of the Michif language.

The Summit will bring together Métis Elders, Knowledge Keepers, language speakers, educators, youth, technologists, researchers, and community leaders to share knowledge, strengthen capacity, and advance coordinated action in alignment with MMF Métis priorities and the Indigenous Languages Act.

Day 1 (August 10, 2026) will focus on registration and a cultural welcome in the evening. Workshops will take place on Days 2 and 3 (August 11-12, 2026).

Conference Streams

Applicants are invited to submit workshop proposals under one of the following three streams:

1. Education Stream

This stream focuses on teaching, learning, and sustaining Michif across formal and community-based settings.

Suggested topics may include, but are not limited to:

• Teaching Michif in K-12, post-secondary, or adult learning environments
• Michif curriculum and resource development
• Language immersion and cohort-based learning models
• Mentorship approaches pairing learners and Language Keepers
• Credentialing and accreditation pathways for Michif learning

2. Land-Based/Music Learning Stream

This stream centers Michif language learning rooted in land, culture, and Métis ways of life.

Suggested topics include, but are not limited to:

• Language learning through seasonal land-based activities
• Elder-led teachings and intergenerational learning on the land
• Integrating land-based learning into community or school programs
• Language learning through music
• Place names, homeland knowledge, and language
• Program planning, safety, protocols, and logistics for land-based initiatives

3. Technology & Innovation Stream

This stream explores how technology can support Michif language revitalization while respecting data sovereignty and Métis governance.

Suggested topics include, but are not limited to:

• Digital tools, apps, and online platforms for Michif learning
• Audio and video recording for language documentation
• Archiving, ownership, and protection of Michif language materials
• Ethical use of AI and emerging technologies in Indigenous language revitalization
• Youth-led digital storytelling, gaming, and social media initiatives

Workshop Formats

Proposals may be submitted for one of the following formats:

• Standard Workshop (60 or 90 minutes): Interactive sessions including discussion, activities, or hands-on learning
• Elder- or Knowledge Keeper-Led Session: Teachings shared through storytelling, song, demonstration, and dialogue
• Panel-Style Workshop: Facilitated discussion with multiple presenters

Workshops should be participatory and focused on practical learning, knowledge sharing, or skill-building.

 

Who Should Apply

MMF welcomes proposals from:

• Métis Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and Michif language speakers
• Educators and curriculum developers
• Community program coordinators and facilitators
• Youth leaders
• Researchers and policy practitioners
• Indigenous technologists and media creators

Collaborative and co-facilitated proposals (e.g., Elder and youth, educator and technologist) are strongly encouraged.

Proposal Submission Requirements

Proposals must include:

1. Workshop title
2. Conference stream (Education, Land/Music-Based Learning, or Technology & Innovation)
3. Proposed length (60 or 90 minutes)
4. Workshop description (maximum 300 words)
5. Learning objectives or outcomes
6. Facilitator(s) information (name(s), role/affiliation, brief bio)
7. Target audience (e.g., educators, youth, language learners, community members)
8. Audio-visual or space requirements

Honoraria & Support

Honoraria will be provided for Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and workshop facilitators. Limited travel and accommodation support will be available. Additional details will be provided upon acceptance.

Important Dates

• Call for Proposals Opens: March 15, 2026
• Proposal Submission Deadline: May 1, 2026
• Notification of Acceptance: May 15, 2026
• Michif Language Summit & Conference: August 10-12, 2026

Selection Process

Proposals will be reviewed by the MMF Michif Language Committee. Selection will prioritize:

• Alignment with Métis values and language revitalization priorities
• Inclusion of Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and intergenerational learning
• Practical relevance and applicability
• Balance across regions, audiences, and experience levels

How to Submit

Please click here to submit your proposal with the required information. If you have questions or require further clarification please email us at michifapplications@mmf.mb.ca . You will be notified by May 15, 2026 of acceptance of your proposal and will follow up with more details at that time.

The Manitoba Métis Federation looks forward to gathering with language champions from across the Homeland and Beyond Borders to strengthen and carry Michif forward for future generations.