National Aboriginal Languages Day: Revitalizing Indigenous Languages and Indigenous Knowledge

March 31, 2011
 
(Ottawa, ON) – On March 31st, National Aboriginal Languages Day, Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo called on all parties to work together with First Nation citizens in Canada to protect and revitalize traditional Indigenous languages.  

“Huuhtikshih?i ?u?ukwasatha  ?ahtsiish qwisuusiik huuhtikshilth,” said AFN National Chief Shawn Atleo in his traditional Nuu-chah-nulth language.  “In English – ‘Learn your language.  Do whatever it takes.’”

“Today we formally acknowledge and celebrate the many Indigenous languages across this country, but it’s essential that we work together to preserve our languages in our homes, schools and work-places every day,” said National Chief Atleo.  “First Nations want to see commitments from all parties to establish activities and programs to ensure adequate and effective support for traditional languages within all learning environments.  This means adequate support for Indigenous students and supporting traditional language programs in our schools, including post-secondary institutions.”

National Aboriginal Languages Day was established by AFN Chiefs-in-Assembly in 1989 to create awareness across Canada of the languages of the First Peoples, and to build support for their preservation.

The majority of languages research around the world has clearly indicated that the most threatened languages are Indigenous languages. Indigenous languages in Canada are in a precarious position and must be considered “critically endangered.”

There are a number of First Nation communities, schools and institutions across Canada that have established language nests and created language immersion programs. In some First Nation communities there is now a net gain of traditional language speakers rather than a net loss.

The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples endorsed by Canada on November 12, 2010, calls on states to work with Indigenous peoples in the spirit of mutual respect and partnership.

The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada.


 
Contact information:
 
Alain Garon, Assembly of First Nations Bilingual Communications Officer
613-241-6789, ext 382 or cell: 613-292-0857 or agaron@afn.ca

Jenna Young, Assembly of First Nations Communications Officer
613-241-6789, ext 401 or cell: 613-314-8157 or e-mail jyoung@afn.ca