APTN is betting on YouTube as it looks to widen the reach of its Indigenous-language content.
Announced ahead of National Indigenous Languages Day on March 31, the network says its YouTube channel is now home to over 1,200 hours of Indigenous-language content across 20 distinct Indigenous languages, including Anishinaabemowin, Anishininimowin, Atikamekw, Blackfoot, Cree, Dakota, Dene, Halkomelem, Innu-aimun, Inuktitut, Kanien’kéha, Kwak’wala, Michif, Mi’kmaq, Nisga’a, Nsyilxcen, Oneida, Stl’atl’imx, Tutchone and Wolastoqey.
APTN says at a time when many Indigenous languages are endangered and in urgent need of revitalization, expanding digital access to that content is essential, especially for new learners looking to build pronunciation and comprehension. It’s also hoping their increased streaming presence promotes intergenerational sharing and will be used by educators as a resource.
“Here at YouTube, we see every day how the power of video can connect communities, educate, and preserve culture,” said Stephanie Wilson Chapin, Partnerships Lead for News, Sports and TV at YouTube Canada. “We are incredibly proud to work with APTN to make this vast library of Indigenous-language programming accessible across Canada. By removing barriers to access, we hope the platform will serve as a vital tool for learners, fluent speakers, and educators, helping to ensure that these languages can continue to be heard for generations.”
The content expansion includes close to 2,500 episodes of programming, produced by Indigenous production companies like Winnipeg’s Eagle Vision. Program highlights include series like Taken (Anishinaabemowin), Water Worlds (Cree), Ocean Warriors (Nisga’a), Michif Country (Michif), Poke’n the Bear (Blackfoot), Mohawk Girls (Kanien’kéha), and Warrior Up! (Inuktitut).
“Eagle Vision is pleased to be part of this important initiative. Making Anishinaabemowin and other Indigenous languages more accessible through platforms like YouTube helps connect our stories and voices with communities, families and learners everywhere,” added Dinae Robinson, Head of Content at Eagle Vision. “Sharing Indigenous-language programming ensures that our people can see and hear themselves reflected on screen while supporting the continued revitalization of Indigenous languages for future generations.”
