Statement from Minister McLean on National Indigenous Languages Day

Press Release

March 31, 2025

Minister of Education Jeanie McLean has issued the following statement:

“Today, on National Indigenous Languages Day, we recognize the vital role that Yukon First Nations languages play in shaping identity, strengthening communities and preserving culture.

“Language is more than a means of communication – it carries the knowledge, traditions and histories of generations. It is a source of strength and belonging. When Indigenous languages are spoken, they thrive. When they are passed down, they carry the voices of the past into the future.

“Our government remains committed to supporting the revitalization of Yukon First Nations languages. Through an annual investment of $1.19 million in the Yukon Native Language Centre, we continue to support language learning and preservation.

“Schools across the territory offer programming that connects students to their heritage. Through the Accreditation of Yukon First Nations Traditional Knowledge, Cultural and Language Learning Policy, students can now earn high school credits by learning their language, culture and traditions directly from Elders and Knowledge Keepers.

“Many organizations are doing incredible work to preserve and strengthen Indigenous languages and the Yukon Native Language Centre is a prime example of this. Their dedication to creating resources, supporting language learners and even developing new terms – like those used during the Yukon Native Hockey Tournament, where Kaska was spoken and new words were coined for hockey terms – shows how language continues to evolve and grow.

“Yukon First Nations are leading the way in strengthening language programs and knowledge sharing.

“Yukon First Nations are leading the way in strengthening language programs, building fluency among language teachers and exploring new ways to keep First Nations languages vibrant in our communities. Our government is proud to support these important efforts.

“On this day, I encourage all Yukoners to reflect on the importance of Indigenous languages and support efforts to ensure they continue to be spoken for generations to come.”

Media contact

Laura Seeley
Cabinet Communications
867-332-7627
laura.seeley@yukon.ca

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