White Earth Nation makes Ojibwe its official language

Ojibwe is now the official language of the White Earth Nation.

Chairwoman Erma Vizenor says the official designation makes Ojibwe a priority language on the northwestern Minnesota reservation.

Vizenor says it's critical the native language survive and thrive.

"The Ojibwe language is the foundation to our culture, traditions, history, and spirituality. It is who we are," says Vizenor.

The designation of an official language is expected to help encourage more young tribal members to learn the native language.

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