Our history
Born from a grassroots language nest
The KNCLN was originally born from the Kingston Indigenous Languages Nest (KILN), a grassroots movement of local Indigenous language lovers and learners.
Our story
Language, community, and a collective mind
Their vision was to champion the urban resurgence of Indigenous languages by following the Kanyen’kehá:ka Kayanerenkó:wa (Great Law of Peace) and the Seven Grandfather Teachings of the Anishinaabe — lifting each other up through peace, strength, and a collective mind.
That vision and work has been fundamental in Kingston and area. The KNCLN continues, using a community-driven approach to celebrate Indigenous languages and to build capacity and opportunities for language learners.
Today we continue to act on the vision of the Language Nest — supporting other Indigenous-led community initiatives and creating a space of openness, care, and acceptance for all who wish to learn, connect, and share.
