Vancouver, BC – October 16-17, 2024
The Office of Commissioner of Indigenous Languages (the Commission) hosted a vibrant two-day gathering focused on First Nations and Métis languages. This event was a continuation of previous gatherings, fostered collaboration among language champions advancing Indigenous languages. The primary goal was to center and support the unique visions of Elders, youth, language keepers and experts in reclaiming, revitalizing, maintaining, and strengthening their indigenous languages.
Elder Larry Grant opened the event with a gesture of welcome and gratitude from the traditional xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) territory, emphasizing the importance of working together to restore respect for Indigenous peoples in what is now called Canada. Commissioner Ignace’s keynote highlighted his personal journey, the establishment of the Commission and its mandate. He spoke about the Commission’s efforts, noting the importance of advocacy in support of fluency and immersion teacher education pathways.
The evening was a celebration of language, culture, and community, marked by an incredible performance by George Leach from the Sta’atl’imx Nation. His powerful voice and message brought participants together, creating an atmosphere filled with Indigenous pride.
On the second day, Directors Joan Greyeyes and Georgina Liberty shared their own language journeys. Director Greyeyes described her motivation as « a constellation of many moments throughout her lifetime » and Director Liberty acknowledged the challenges of language learning, stating, “revitalizing, maintaining, and utilizing our language is not easy, but it’s worth all the hard work.” She also highlighted the important role of future generations, saying, “our youth are our future.”
Dr. Daniel Brant’s keynote addressed the adequacy of funding, highlighting the commendable efforts of individuals running language programs. He emphasized the need for more dedicated funding, stating, “more dedicated funding is needed to support immersion programs for youth and adults,” given the rapid decline of first-language speakers and the low number of second-language speakers.
Focused group discussions revealed several key themes:
During the youth panel discussion, participants highlighted the critical role of Elders in language preservation and the urgent need for sustainable funding. They emphasized, “Elders who share cultural and language teachings should be valued as highly as someone with a PhD” recognizing the profound impact of their knowledge and role. Regularly hearing their languages from Elders aids young people in retention and pronunciation, ensuring these languages remain vibrant and thriving.
Ross Pambrun, a Métis Artificial Intelligence expert, discussed the opportunities AI presents for language preservation, stressing the importance of transparency and involving Indigenous Peoples to avoid perpetuating inequality and discrimination perpetuated through AI.
Dr. Suzanne Gessner and Thea Harris from the First Peoples’ Cultural Council shared insights into their language revitalization programs, which serve 36 languages and over 95 dialects in British Columbia. They emphasized the need for plan-based, multi-year grants and the value of regional training workshops and online learning series.
Dr. Lorna Williams’s keynote on strategic planning for Indigenous languages offered valuable frameworks to ensure planning aligns with Indigenous ways of knowing and being, including connections to ancestors and the spirit world.
The gathering came to an end with renewed energy and collective commitment to reclaiming, revitalizing, maintaining, and strengthening First Nations and Métis languages, leaving participants inspired and united in their shared journey.
