University of Regina Press asking you to speak up to save First Nations language – Regina Leader-Post
ovember 24, 2015
University of Regina Press is asking the public to speak up for First Nations’ languages.
The publisher is planning to create 60 First Nations’ language readers. Each book takes an indigenous language and prints about 10 stories — some traditional, some contemporary — in that language. Each story is printed in syllabics, Standard Roman Orthography, and English.
“Every language is a world unto itself. You understand the world through the lens of your language,” said Arok Wolvengrey, a professor of Indigenous languages at First Nations’ University and an editor of the books.
So far, Plains Cree, Woods Cree, Blackfoot, Saulteaux and Lillooet versions have been printed.
The books retail for $24.95, but production costs are about $40,000.
