CIRCA:First Voices
From CIRCA
First Voices: Indigenous Language Revitalization
Concern
Many Indigenous languages are at risk of becoming extinct. Around the world, indigenous people suffered genocide or were forbidden to speak their native languages under assimilation policies as their lands were colonized. This means their linguistic history is fading, in many cases with only elders left who speak the language. Bringing their languages back is a way of bringing their ways of knowing back. Language influences our worldview. Our heritage is the living expression of our identities and is part of having a healthy community. Looking after our cultural legacy is looking after our people.
First People’s Cultural Council
In 1990, the government of British Columbia formed the First People's Cultural Council as a crown corporation to assist First Nations in their efforts to revitalize their languages, arts and cultures. Their mission is supported by legislation: First People's Heritage, Language and Culture Act
First Voices Timeline
Language Learning Dictionary apps Keyboards Language Lab
Heritage Over 60 communities archive their languages Living expression of identities Members retain ownership
Technical Support Open-source software Training in professional audio recording and archiving
Apps
Conclusion Database for communities to preserve their language Cultural heritage and living expression of identities is integral to the health of our Indigenous communities, and all the peoples at large. First Voices also gives a base for communities that have lost heir language to rebuild their histories.
References First Peoples' Cultural Council 2021 <https://fpcc.ca>, retrieved 15 October 2021 First Peoples’ Cultural Foundation 2021, FirstVoices <https://www.firstvoices.com/home>, retrieved 14 October 2021 Garcia, Isabella 2020, How Technology Helps Preserve Endangered Indigenous Languages, <https://www.yesmagazine.org/social-justice/2020/04/15/technology-indigenous-languages>, retrieved 15 October 2021 Korff, J 2021, Aboriginal language preservation & revival, <https://www.creativespirits.info/aboriginalculture/language/aboriginal-languagepreservation>, retrieved 15 October 2021
