Learning Cree helps this dental hygienist connect with and treat her patients [Video]

A non-Indigenous dental hygienist in the northern Quebec community of Waskaganish is learning Cree in an effort to communicate more effectively with the people she serves. 

For the past six years, Camille Poirier has been filling her notebook with Cree words, sentences, and phrases.

“I think that makes a difference because they know that you’re there for many reasons, not only for work, but also to connect,” said Poirier, who is originally from the Gatineau, Que. and Rockland, Ont. area.

Poirier began working in Waskaganish after graduating from university.

What was intended to be a temporary position became a new home for Poirier and her family.

“I wanted to connect more with the patient like, and I find that with the language you can connect with the person because they understand you better,” said Poirier. 

At the daycare, Poirier …