National Indigenous Languages Day
Press Release
Today is National Indigenous Languages Day, an opportunity to honour the diverse languages of the lands that make up Canada. March 31 provides the time to reflect on the importance of language as a connection to Indigenous culture, tradition, identity, and land.
“While living the Treaties, we must honour the languages that were spoken during the time of Treaty making. As the Treaties promoted peace, cooperation, and mutual respect, preserving Indigenous languages ensures the spirit and intent of Treaties are upheld,” said Treaty Commissioner of Saskatchewan, Dr. Kathy Walker.
“Language allows people to communicate their stories, ways of life, and knowledge and allows it to be passed down through generations. It’s more than preserving words, it’s about protecting and strengthening our ties as nations and with the land.”
There are more than 70 Indigenous languages across Canada.
The Office of the Treaty Commissioner celebrates the initiatives being carried out by many First Nations and language warriors as they work to revitalize and strengthen Indigenous languages. These efforts are key in maintaining traditional knowledge and ways of knowing.
As the International Decade of Indigenous Languages (2022-2032) continues, the OTC echoes the call to promote the use of Indigenous languages worldwide. The increasing normalization of Indigenous languages gives us hope that one day we can see all Indigenous languages thriving.
Today serves as a call to action for all of us to recognize the importance of these languages and contribute to their survival.
Resources on Indigenous Language
Montreal Lake Cree Nation Woodlands Cree language app
Lac La Ronge Indian Band’s Learn Cree website & resources
File Hills Qu’Appelle Tribal Council Language Learning
Canada Needs Thriving Indigenous Languages
ILR4
