Abstract
Many Indigenous languages in Canada are facing the threat of extinction. While some languages remain in good health, others have already been lost completely. Immediate action must be taken to prevent further language loss. Throughout Canada’s unacceptable history of expunging First Nations’ ways of life, systemic methods such as residential schools attempted to eradicate Indigenous cultures and languages. These efforts were not entirely successful but Indigenous language and culture suffered greatly. For Indigenous communities, language loss impaired intergenerational knowledge transfer and compromised their personal identity. Additionally, the cumulative effects of assimilation have contributed to poor mental and physical health outcomes amongst Indigenous people. However, language reclamation has been found to improve well-being and sense of community. To this objective, this paper explores the historical context of this dilemma, the lasting effects of assimilation, and how this damage can be remediated. Additionally, we examine existing Indigenous language programs in Canada and the barriers that inhibit the programs’ widespread success. Through careful analysis, such barriers may be overcome to improve the efficacy of the programs. Institutions must quickly implement positive changes to preserve Indigenous languages as fluent populations are rapidly disappearing.
Highlights
Language is more than just a mode of communication, especially for Indigenous communities that have long endured the attempted erasure of their culture and heritage.Instead, language should be viewed as a natural resource [1]
Reconciliation Commission (TRC) [15], select post-secondary institutions have given revitalization and reparations, but more can be done by examining the structural elements their support by creating Indigenous language programs
Through acts of systemic racism and oppression, Indigenous language and culture were pushed to the brink of extinction
Summary
Language is more than just a mode of communication, especially for Indigenous communities that have long endured the attempted erasure of their culture and heritage. Reconciliation Commission (TRC) [15], select post-secondary institutions have given revitalization and reparations, but more can be done by examining the structural elements their support by creating Indigenous language programs. These are steps towards revitalof such programs to maximize benefits for Indigenous communities. These children were buried in an unmarked mass grave, and their deaths were previously undocumented [31] This event, while unspeakably tragic, has provided further momentum for Indigenous culture and language revitalization movements, which is critical as part of reparations for current Indigenous communities still experiencing the effects of Canada’s genocidal past. By listening to Indigenous voices, we will gradually reach a more balanced society, inclusive of all its members [32]
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