Nunatsiavut Language Summit

Commission Participates in the Nunatsiavut Language Summit  

May 5-8, 2025- Nain, Nunatsiavut (Labrador)  

The Office of the Commissioner of Indigenous Languages had the honour of attending the Nunatsiavut Language Summit this past May, hosted by the Nunatsiavut Government Department of Language, Culture, and Tourism. The Summit honoured the foundational work of the 2021-2026 Inuttitut UKâlalluta, ilinniatitsiluta, InosiKalluta! Language Strategy, which set forth regional visions and priorities for the preservation, promotion of protection of Inuttitut in Nunatsiavut.The Summit also offered a platform for Elders, youth, educators, language advocates, and community members from across Nunatsiavut to come together in celebration of Inuttitut.  

The Commission is grateful to have participated in the Summit and present on its mandate, priorities, and activities, as they relate to the promotion and championing of Indigenous Peoples’ efforts to reclaim, revitalize, maintain and strengthen their languages. The Summit provided significant insights into the current Inuttitut revitalization work taking place across Nunatsiavut, as well as the community-led visions which will guide Nunatsiavut Government’s development of the 2027-2032 Nunatsiavut Language Strategy.

An overview of the current regional language initiatives and a presentation highlighting the current state of Inuttitut in the region, presented by Carleton University in partnership with the Nunatsiavut Government, situated the context for discussions on the first day. Focused discussions on the role of youth in language revitalization and promotion as well as the importance of land-based teaching in language transmission throughout the summit further informed the development of the upcoming language strategy.

President Johannes Lampe of the Nunatsiavut Government emphasized the importance of Inuttitut revitalization and strengthening throughout the Summit:

“Our language is what defines as a people. It carries our stories, our knowledge and our way of life. Now more than ever, it must be protected, strengthened, and embraced.”

The Summit provided an inspiring space for Nunatsiavutmiut to come together in celebration and reflection, as the language revitalization priorities for the next five years continue to be defined.  

“In our efforts as a Commission to champion and promote the language revitalization efforts of Indigenous Peoples across the country, it is critical that we continue to hear directly from the communities about their needs, accomplishments, important milestones as well as the barriers they are experiencing. Participating in forums like the Nunatsiavut Language Summit ensures that the Commission remains responsive to the unique needs and realities of Indigenous Peoples in Canada, because Indigenous communities are at the forefront of language revitalization efforts.

Witnessing the passion, the determination and the will of every participant during this awesome Summit gives me hope.”

-Director Robert Watt