Federal funding boosts Cree, Dene and Michif broadcasting across Northern Sask.

Minahik Achimowin, which operates CFNK Radio 89.9 FM in Pinehouse, is to receive $642,757 over two years. The station produces culturally and regionally relevant programming in Michif and Michif-Cree. That includes news, traditional knowledge, music and talk radio, and broadcasts in Pinehouse along with other nearby Cree and Métis communities. They also publish online.

The Île-à-la-Crosse Communication Society, which operates CILX Michif Radio 92.5 FM in Île-à-la-Crosse, will get $428,800 over two years. It produces radio and television programs in Michif and English, including news, music, community and language education content, and broadcasts on radio, a regional television network and online.

Missinipi Broadcasting Corporation, which operates MBC Radio from La Ronge and Prince Albert, is to receive $618,914 over two years. The broadcaster produces radio programming in English, Cree, Dene and Michif, including educational content, interviews, news, talk radio and music. It says it reaches 70 First Nations, Métis communities and most urban centres across Saskatchewan, as well as listeners online.

Sipisisihk Communications, which operates CIPI Radio 96.5 FM in Beauval, will receive $200,000 over two years. It produces programming in Cree and Michif, including news, community events, music and cultural content, and broadcasts to six northern Saskatchewan communities and online.

In a news release, Miller said Indigenous broadcasters help ensure community stories and values are reflected on screen, online and over the airwaves.

Belanger said the stations play a vital role in sustaining and celebrating Métis and Nêhiyawak culture in northern Saskatchewan.

The Indigenous Languages Program supports efforts by Indigenous Peoples to reclaim, revitalize, maintain and strengthen Indigenous languages and cultures.

The Northern Aboriginal Broadcasting component supports Indigenous audio and video content production and distribution. Eligible organizations must provide broadcast communications north of the Hamelin Line, which is drawn at the 55th parallel and defines Canada’s north for policy purposes.

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panews@pattsonmedia.com

by Susan McNeil

Federal funding boosts Cree, Dene and Michif broadcasting across Northern Sask.

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