Who We Are
Founded in 2020 by Youth from Mishkeegogamang First Nation,
Gaa-minwaajindizowaaj (“GAAM”) is an unincorporated, grassroots organization. We work to create Anishinaabe language revitalization opportunities as a way to support Indigenous Youth in developing their language proficiency and leadership.
Our work is community-driven, with an emphasis on relationship-building, (re)localization, Youth leadership, community healing and accessibility.
Objectives:
To create Anishinaabe language resources that support Anishinaabe language learning and revitalization efforts
To support Indigenous Youth in developing their language proficiency, building networks and developing leadership skills
To facilitate Anishinaabe language classes that promote immersion-based learning
Our work includes developing Anishinaabe language classes, hosting workshops, presenting keynotes, and participating on panels to share about Indigenous language revitalization, Youth leadership and the community arts!
Our Team
Founder, Cassandra Spade
Cassandra Spade (she/her) is a grassroots, human rights activist from the Mishkeegogamang First Nation, located in Northwestern Ontario. She is currently studying law at the Bora Laskin Faculty of Law located in Thunder Bay, ON.
Courtney Spade
Courtney Spade (she/her) is mother, and was born and raised in Northwestern Ontario. She is a mental health advocate and an ally for the revitalization of Indigenous languages. She enjoys baking, crafting with her daughter, and spending quality time with her family.
Who Made Our Logo?
Jared Tait
jared tait belongs to the lynx clan (bizhiw doodem) with roots in sachigo lake first nation and thunder bay, ontario. jared currently resides in peterborough, ontario with his partner and children. he’s an up-and-coming artist practicing within this traditional style known as woodland art. his exposure to this technique at a young age; strongly built his connection and appreciation for this art form. jared’s mentorship from tim tait, another woodland artist, and father, began a journey into creating articulate imagery. contemporary imagery with bold black lines and natural to bright colours. tait tells a story of indigenous relations to the land- from the water and to the spirits that inhabit it. each piece encompasses a bit of his own spirit from his own personal experiences. jared creates in hopes to preserve sacred teachings, symbolisms, and stories for generations to come.
