Island First Nation's Effort to Revive a Critically Endangered Language
Preserving Endangered Languages: Homalco Nation's New Initiative
On November 22, the Homalco Nation gathered together for a pivotal event held at the Coast Discovery Inn. The purpose was to unveil an ambitious language revitalization plan aimed at breathing new life into their critically endangered language, ayʔaǰuθɛm. This indigenous language is a part of the Salishan family, shared among the Xwémalhkwu people and three other nations: the Klahoose, Tla'smin, and K'omoks.
The Importance of Language for Community Healing
The initiative comes at a time when the Homalco community is grappling with numerous challenges. Shaylene Harry, Xwémalhkwu health director, emphasized the critical role language plays in the healing and survival of their people. "Our language is so important for the healing and survival of our people, which is something we are in dire need of right now," she asserted. The community's struggles have highlighted the urgent need for cultural and linguistic revival as a means of restoration.
The Task Ahead: Overcoming Funding and Resource Challenges
Despite significant obstacles, including drastic cuts in language funding by the government, the dedication to preserving ayʔaǰuθɛm remains strong. The health staff, led by Harry, recognized the importance of the work done so far and chose to continue the programs despite financial strains. The language department, although small, continues its efforts with the leadership of language coordinator Marilyn Harry and education coordinator Brenda Murray.
Developing a Five-Year Language Revitalization Plan
A dedicated Language Revitalization Planning Project (LRPP) Working Group, composed of around fifteen members and supported by notable contributors like James O'Rourke, has been established to develop a sustainable plan. The group's purpose is clear: to prevent the extinction of this language, which was fluently spoken by only 47 people across the four nations as of 2018.
O'Rourke, a key figure in the project, presented the comprehensive five-year language plan during the event. He stressed the commitment needed from the community to ensure the language's survival and growth, saying, "It's going to be up to you guys, for us, to hold each other's feet to the fire to see if the language continues to develop in the community."
Confronting Historical and Cultural Loss
The scars left by past policies, particularly the impact of residential schools, still deeply affect the Xwémalhkwu people. These institutions not only punished children for speaking their native tongue but also aimed to strip them of their indigenous identities, accelerating the erosion of their language. The last of these schools in Canada closed only as recently as 1997, and their legacy continues to disrupt cultural heritage and linguistic continuity.
Utilizing and Expanding Language Resources
To combat these challenges, existing language resources have been made more accessible and new ones developed. The Raven 100.7 radio station has played a significant role by creating podcast episodes from language recordings and broadcasting a daily "Word of the Day." Additionally, the local Health Centre houses a collection of books, audio recordings, and workbooks for language enthusiasts.
Recent initiatives, spawned from the LRPP project, include a high school course offered within School District 72, a non-credit language course through North Island College, and the innovative program titled Reclaiming our Language.
Goals and Vision for 2028: A Strategic Plan
With a clear roadmap outlined in their revitalization document, the Homalco Nation envisions numerous milestones by 2028. One significant goal is the establishment of a permanent, specialized language resources center. Furthermore, learners would have the opportunity to earn a fluency certificate at North Island College and engage in non-credit adult basic education courses or micro-credential programs linked to industries like tourism and forestry.
Another objective includes integrating a curriculum pathway for language education in public schools, which certified teachers and elders would administer. The visibility and influence of the nation's language and culture within the school district's committees and across educational settings are also part of the broader scope for 2028.
By revitalizing ayʔaǰuθɛm, the Homalco Nation aims not only to preserve their linguistic heritage but also to bolster cultural identity, offering a path toward healing and unity for future generations. This detailed plan underscores the recognition of language as a vital component of community strength and resilience, as well as a bridge connecting the present to a rich cultural past.
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