The following phrases are part of an effort to encourage use of Ojibwe around town, outside of class with friends and family. In Grand Marais, Minnesota, the Java Moose (Makademashkikiwaaboo Mooz) is a favorite place to chat, catch up on the news and get a cup of black medicine water (or something more fun and fancy).

We encourage you to pair up, practice the phrases and come to Grand Marais or take the language to a makademashkikiwaaboogamig (cafe) near you!

Here is a practice exercise you can do to practice your Anishinaabemowin. Cashiers and customers can talk through each of the 4 steps below to make a conversation. It can be fun to roll a die to choose the menu item.

Akawe onaakonan:
First decide about this:

Cafe-39 Who is Cashier
Awenen awid Wedaawed?
Who is the cashier/trader?

Cafe-40 Who is Customer
Awenen awid Gaashpinadood?
Who is the customer/buyer?

Miidash idan waa-minikwaadaman.
Then say (what) you will drink.

1. Greeting
Wedaawed (Cashier) offers a greeting
Gaashpinadood (Customer) returns the greeting

2. Order (this can extend with several modifications about size, temperature, and so forth)
Wedaawed (Cashier) asks what is wanted
Gaashpinadood (Customer) answers + modifications

3. Cost
Gaashpinadood (Customer) asks how much it costs
Wedaawed (Cashier) answers the cost

4. Leaving
Wedaawed (Cashier) says don’t spill or enjoy
Gaashpinadood (Customer) says thanks for goodbye