Multilingualism has long been an important attribute of Métis identity. Historically, Métis children across the Homeland learned Michif at home, often together with other languages, including nehiyawewin (Cree), English, or Français (French). 

Michif, though fundamentally related to both French and Cree, is its own distinct language. Michif is a contact language, not a hybrid language. A “hybrid” is defined as two separate parts that remain divided even when brought together.