Giigido (s/he speaks in Ojibwe): an architectural exploration of Ojibwe language learning in the Atikameksheng Anishnawbek First Nation

• Main Author: Roy, Brook-Lynn
• Format: Thesis
• Language: English
• Published: Laurentian University of Sudbury 2023
• Subjects: Anishinaabemowin; Ojibwe language learning; First Nation community identity; Architectural interpretation; Construction process; Architectural typology; Bentwood experimentation; anishina*
• Online Access: https://zone.biblio.laurentian.ca/handle/10219/4057

Acknowledging the endangered state of Indigenous Languages situated in the colonial narrative of Canada, this thesis investigates the capabilities of architecture as a tool to support existing language revitalization strategies. It presents a process of knowledge gathering, recording, and interpretation that identifies key concepts inherent to language and identity. Investigating topics through a lens of actions and processes, the body of knowledge is analyzed through the act of making. As a result of first-hand material explorations and community consultations, this thesis proposes an architectural typology unique to the Atikameksheng Anishnawbek First Nation community. The proposed typology represents a spatial interpretation of the Ojibwe language, inherently criticizing the continuously imposed Western concept of education and imposed architectural designs. As a kit of parts, the proposal is fully adaptable to meet the community’s needs and is intended to complement their residential expansion and language revitalization plans. Master of Architecture (M.Arch)