Aboriginal Languages in Ontario.

This report outlines the basic characteristics of native languages in Ontario, the degree to which they are being maintained, and the aspirations of native people for their future development. The report covers only the Algonquian and Iroquoian families of languages spoken in Ontario for many generations and still spoken at present, including Cree, Ojibwe, Potawatomi, Delaware, Mohawk, Oneida, Seneca, Cayuga, Onondaga, and Tuscarora. The report outlines: (1) the characteristics of the languages; (2) demographic information concerning language affiliation, numbers of speakers, patterns and geography of language switching, and Metis and non-status Indian groups; (3) literacy statistics; (4) the administration of native affairs; (5) objectives for native languages, including organizations and projects concerning the preservation and maintenance of native languages; and (6) native language development activities in and through churches and religious groups, commerce, broadcasting, the newspapers, adult education, government interpretation and translation, cultural centers, research, community language use, the use of syllabic typewriters and the provision for native language telephone services. A bibliography is included, and Native Language Advisory Committee documents and submissions to the Ontario Royal Commission on the Northern Environment are appended. (MSE)