At the Cree Language Commission, the team consists of various areas overseeing the work on Cree Language in Eeyou Istchee to ensure that all areas of language are covered and supported regionally. Led by the Coordinator of Cree Language, the CLC team has a Programs Development Officer, Language Resource Officer, Multimedia Graphics Technician, Administrative Assistant, Communications Officer, and will soon be joined by a Research & Revitalization Officer. The CLC Team then operates as a cross-functional team that support and work together in carrying out an important mandate in the Cree Nation as the main hub and support for all local Language and/or Cultural Coordinators in all communities. 

 MEET THE TEAM: 

Shannon Atsynia. Coordinator of Cree Language
email: shannon.atsynia@cngov.ca

From the Cree community of Wemindji, Quebec located on the coast of James Bay, Shannon Atsynia started her work as the Coordinator of Cree Language Revitalization in July of 2021 employed by the Cree Nation Government under the department of Social and Cultural Development.

As the Coordinator, Shannon’s role is to support the Commissioner of the Cree Language in their efforts to establish robust and sustainable long-term language initiatives aimed at preserving, promoting, and developing the Cree language in Eeyou Istchee.

She is also responsible for the development of language policies, programs, and plans. Moreover, assists the Commissioner in their work to encourage cooperation and coordination among communities, the general public in Eeyou Istchee, and regional entities, including the Cree School Board, Cree Health Board, and Aanischaaukamikw Cree Cultural Institute.

Shannon joined the team not only bringing her professional experience and expertise in this area of work but brought a personal passion and an energetic enthusiasm towards ensuring the continuity of preserving, protecting and promoting the Cree Language.

Tamara Murdoch, Programs Development Officer
email: tamara.murdoch@cngov.ca

From the community of Wemindji, QC, Tamara Murdoch was hired as the first Programs Development Officer under the Cree Language Commission, Tamara joined the team following her previous role as a local Heritage Language Coordinator where she sought to expand and explore deeper into the work of the Cree Language. While working alongside a cross-functional team under the Cree Language Commission, Tamara also works with all local Language Coordinators and utilizes Cultural Coordinators when some communities have no language department yet. 

Her role is to support, advise and guide the development of new and modern methods to teach the Cree Language. As a Programs Development Officer, she is committed to preserving and strengthening our Cree Language. Her goal is to nurture the revitalization and promotion of Cree by developing meaningful programs and offering accessible, engaging Cree language learning opportunities. Tamara is passionate, motivated, and deeply rooted in the belief that our language is the heart of our identity and is devoted to ensuring it continues to thrive for future generations.

Craig “Ayden” Gray, Multimedia Graphics Technician
email: craig.gray@cngov.ca

who joined the CLC out of Mistissini, QC. As part of the cross-functional team, Ayden’s role as the Multimedia Tech is working with colleagues among the CLC is designing, producing and printing various types of learning materials, and ensuring the visibility of language promotion throughout Eeyou Istchee.

Since he joined the CLC team, Ayden has brought many great ideas contributing to the revitalization of Cree Language in the work that we do. Ayden brings flare and passion to the CLC office. A man of many talents, Ayden has played an integral role in furthering the mandate of the commission team through his creativity and unique talents creating eye-catching designs in our materials.

Dana Kakabat, Administrative Assistant
email: dana.kakabat@cngov.ca

From the Cree Nation of Wemindji, Dana joined the CLC team to support the team’s mandate by providing administrative and professional support to ensure that the team’s administrative needs are met. As a cross-functional team, Dana provides the team with ideas and input just like every team member in our meetings, and has contributed greatly with designs coming out of the CLC office.

Dana plays a big role in the team and ensures good organization, and professional coordination when it comes to the team’s administrative tasks and needs. She is also the main source of contact when it comes to the team’s annual Forum on Cree Language assisting all team members in their area of expertise in hosting a successful event.