Something to ponder
National Indigenous Languages Day was celebrated on March 31st. This day honors the linguistic diversity and cultural richness of indigenous communities in Canada, where more than 70 Indigenous Languages are spoken, according to Statistics Canada. Indigenous languages are vital components of cultural and spiritual legacy and identity, and archives of traditional knowledge in addition to being means of communication. However, due to institutional marginalization, historical injustices, and the effects of colonial practices, many indigenous languages in Canada are in danger of becoming extinct.
A special chance to address the issues threatening indigenous languages and assist indigenous communities in their efforts to preserve their linguistic legacy is provided by the United Nations International Decade of Indigenous Languages (2022–2032). The Decade gives a forum for amplifying indigenous peoples’ voices and promoting their linguistic rights through programs designed to increase awareness, provide resources, and encourage cooperation.
The Assembly of First Nations has worked on a National Action Plan dedicated to:
- Enhance awareness, encourage a better understanding and respect of linguistic variety and the rights of indigenous peoples by bringing attention to the significance of indigenous languages.
- Increase engagement by mobilizing First Nations communities to actively participate in language revitalization efforts.
- Building Community Strategies with providing tailored strategies for language revitalization based on community needs and integration into all sectors of society.
- Enhancing Support by advocating for sustainable funding and support mechanisms to aid First Nations in language planning and capacity building.
- Improving Measurement by developing tools and indicators for measuring progress, ensuring accuracy and respecting First Nations data governance.
It is crucial to acknowledge the tenacity and resolve of First Nations communities in Canada as we consider the significance of the United Nations Decade. First Nations peoples have been oppressed for generations and have had attempts made to obliterate their languages, but they have managed to recover, revive, and commemorate their linguistic legacy.
Let’s reaffirm our shared commitment to assisting indigenous languages and giving these communities the tools they need to protect, revive, and advance their linguistic heritage for future generations. Let us reiterate our dedication to linguistic diversity, cultural resilience, and the rights of indigenous peoples as we look forward to the remaining years of the United Nations Decade of Indigenous Languages. By working together, we can build a future in which First Nations communities regain their proper position as guardians of their linguistic legacy and indigenous languages flourish.
You can find learning and teaching resources for Indigenous languages here.
Volunteers needed at the Indigenous Health Centre of Tiotià:ke!
You can find the sign-up form here.
History
On April 12, 1876, the Indian Act was introduced.
Save the date
On April 22 is International Mother Earth Day.
Food for thought
How do you think the Indian Act affects your life today? Do you think it has impacted your relationships with people and the land you’re on?
Resource: Home on Native Land, a ten-week course from Raven
A reminder
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Resources for dedication of Mohawk Bible Many Mohawk Bibles have already been delivered to individuals and communities of faith, with more on their way. The Living into Right Relations Leadership Circle has developed some ideas to help communities of faith dedicate their copies of the Mohawk Bible with respect and gratitude, including liturgical resources, video clips of Harvey Satewas Gabriel reading from the Mohawk Bible and other resources about the significance of this translation.
Download resources: Ohiatonhseratokénti, The Holy Bible in Mohawk