All Indigenous languages in Canada are in danger of disappearing.
We need to act quickly to save Indigenous languages.
Indigenous languages embody our connection to
the land, traditions, and each other. 
We have a collective responsibility to
future generations to preserve and celebrate heritage.

Founded by E.J. Fontaine & Eva Wilson-Fontaine, Akiing Onji, which translates to "From the Land" in the Ojibwe language, is deeply rooted in the revitalization and promotion of Indigenous Languages, History, Arts & Culture. The organization is guided by ancestral wisdom and principles of Mother Earth, driven by a shared passion. Their mission is to strengthen community bonds, inspire positive contributions for future generations, and establish a nurturing environment based on love, respect, responsibility, and a profound connection with nature.

 

The Akiing Onji Foundation, a youthful Indigenous-led charitable organization, is dedicated to preserving and promoting Indigenous languages, traditions, arts, and cultures. They provide culturally relevant programs, training, and workshops to Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities to revitalize Indigenous languages and traditions, raising public awareness and appreciation of Indigenous culture, history, language, and traditions.

 

The goal is to encourage all, particularly the youth, to actively engage in learning their languages, arts, culture, and history. Our cultural heritage and teachings are deeply intertwined with the land. As technology use increases, there is a critical need to reestablish this connection, a cause we champion. We aim to inspire the Elders in our communities to participate and pass on their invaluable knowledge to the younger generation, fostering purpose, significance, and community.

 

By promoting cultural revitalization among the youth, the organization aims to counteract the negative impacts of discrimination arising from cultural insecurity. Additionally, by advocating for cultural diversity, tolerance, and the celebration of differences, the foundation actively supports the shift towards a multicultural society that values and safeguards diversity.

​

BOARD:

The Board is spearheaded by founder Eva Wilson-Fontaine.  Her and her husband, E.J. Fontaine are both passionate Indigenous entrepreneurs behind the Akiing Onji initiative and Anish Healing Centre Inc., a non-profit social enterprise. They are also the founders of AMIK Inc., a leader in Indigenous workforce engagement and training. Other board members include Sherman Kong, Mike Schwartz, Robert Maytwayashing, Rebecca Sinclair, and Shauna Cody.

​

Eva and E.J. are committed to addressing issues within Indigenous communities and have extensive experience supporting former Indian Residential School students. They have cultivated positive relationships between Indigenous peoples and the wider Canadian community, earning recognition from various organizations. Through AMIK Inc., they partner with major corporations to develop Indigenous workforce strategies and reconciliation initiatives. Their aim is to utilize their expertise to advance racial and ethnic equality for Indigenous peoples, fostering healing and enhanced relationships among all communities. Ultimately, they aspire to contribute to a brighter future for the youth and the next generation. Together, we are stronger.

​