I found the ultimate silver lining this past week – one I truly wish I’d discovered sooner!
While tuning into the Men’s Olympic hockey game on CBC Gem, I was absolutely tickled to find streams available in Inuktitut, Cree, Atikamekw, and Innu. The best part? This isn’t just limited to Team Canada; you can hear the action for other countries’ matchups as well.
There is something profoundly moving about hearing “Canada’s Game” called in the original languages of this land we call home. It’s so much more than a broadcast; it’s a commitment to making the sport accessible and inclusive for everyone, from coast to coast to coast.
Massive Respect to the Voices Behind the Mic
The energy these announcers bring is next level!
Inuktitut: The play-by-play from David Ningeongan and Pujjuut Kusugak is pure joy. Even though I don’t speak the language, their enthusiasm is so contagious I found myself rewatching just to catch their vibe.
Cree: Listening to Cole Bosum and Dorothy Stewart feels like coming home – it took me right back to listening to my Kocum while she talked on the phone.
Atikamekw: Alexandre Nequado, Therese Ottawa, and Anthony Dube are an absolute powerhouse of a team.
Innu: The action is brought to life by the talented Joyce Dominique and Alexandre Aster.
Why Accessibility Matters
In a country as vast as ours, finding ways to bridge the distance is vital. This initiative brings our hearts, joy, and spirit together as one. Being able to share in the thrill of the goals, the collective cheering, and those epic “oooooooo” moments is truly priceless.