The National Action Plan supports First Nations, Inuit and Métis
in their efforts to reclaim, revitalize, maintain, strengthen and
promote Indigenous languages in Canada
GATINEAU, QC, June 20,
2024 /CNW/ - Canada's history of discriminatory government
policies and practices has been detrimental to Indigenous languages
and significantly contributed to their erosion. Restoring and
promoting language is an important part of healing, reconciliation,
and fostering a strong sense of identity and community.
On the eve of National Indigenous Peoples Day, the Honourable
Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Canadian Heritage, announced the
launch of Canada's National Action
Plan for the International Decade of Indigenous Languages. The
Department of Canadian Heritage has incorporated input from First
Nations, Inuit and Métis partners to develop the National Action
Plan, which aims to support Indigenous peoples in defining their
vision and advance their own action plans to support the
International Decade of Indigenous Languages.
The National Action Plan has four pillars that will contribute
to the revitalization, advancement and visibility of Indigenous
languages in Canada. The four
pillars are: supporting Indigenous peoples in advancing their
vision for the Decade; implementing the Indigenous Languages
Act; engaging Indigenous youth; and creating lasting
legacies.
Through the funding provided to implement the Indigenous
Languages Act, Indigenous communities have multiplied their
efforts to reclaim, revitalize, maintain and strengthen their
languages.
Quotes
"Language is fundamental to our culture and our identity. In
Canada, the languages of First
Nations, Inuit and Métis are vanishing at an alarming rate. It is
our shared responsibility to collaborate, share stories and support
communities that are working hard to keep these languages alive.
The National Action Plan will help us create a legacy that will be
cherished by generations to come."
—The Honourable Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Canadian
Heritage
Quick Facts
The United Nations declared 2022–2032 the International Decade
of Indigenous Languages. Throughout the Decade, Canada will recognize, raise awareness of, and
celebrate the richness and diversity of Indigenous languages. The
main objectives of the Decade are to draw attention to the critical
loss of Indigenous languages and the urgent need to preserve,
revitalize and promote Indigenous languages at the national and
international levels.
Under the leadership of UNESCO, a Global Action Plan guides the
Decade, sets out objectives and actions, and calls for the
development of national action plans.
There are over 70 Indigenous languages in Canada. They are a key element of Indigenous
culture and identity. Most of the living Indigenous languages in
Canada are endangered, and none of
them are considered safe.
The Indigenous Languages Act received Royal Assent
on June 21, 2019. Canadian Heritage
continues to work with Indigenous partners and organizations to
implement the Act.
To ensure the vibrancy of Indigenous languages for generations
to come and support the implementation of the Indigenous
Languages Act, Canada has
provided important budget investments of over $1 billion from 2019–2020 to 2028–2029, and
$162.7 million ongoing.
Associated Links
Canada's National Action Plan
for the International Decade of Indigenous Languages
(2022–2032)
International Decade of Indigenous Languages
Indigenous Languages Act
Indigenous Languages
SOURCE Canadian Heritage