Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Across our small communities, our language use is declining at a scary pace. That means language revitalization is a tricky business. That means the government is aware that the consequences of inaction will be dire or even irreversible.
The government recently transferred the bulk of this responsibility to Aboriginal governments. The rationale behind the decisions is that Aboriginal governments are the experts on their own languages. For my part, I am pleased to see Aboriginal governments being entrusted with the task.
When the Dehcho First Nations met to discuss how to implement the region’s five-year Aboriginal language plan and manage their responsibilities, leaders were optimistic about the possibilities. It doesn’t surprise me. Language revitalization in my region has a dynamic and long-standing history. The focus is on Dene Zhatie, also known as South Slavey. The dedicated curriculum can be really applied to daily life.
In the community of Fort Providence, Ms. Lois Philipp is the star player in the language revitalization drama. As a young girl, Ms. Philipp attended Deh Gah School, and for more than a decade she’s been a school principal. Back in 2013 she received Outstanding Principal Award from a national education advocacy group. Ms. Philipp is known for combining education, culture and community. For many years the Deh Gah School in Fort Providence has hosted emerging programs for school aged students. It’s an experiential-based learning opportunity that allows students to acquire their language and reconnection with family members.
More recently, through a partnership with the University of Victoria, a university-level program is also running out of the school. Students from across the region attend classes for two weeks and then participate in practicums and field placements.
Taking control of language revitalization is an exciting opportunity for leaders in my region, but it’s a huge challenge because funding is so limited.
At the appropriate time I will have questions for the Minister of Education, Culture and Employment. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.
Thank you, Mr. Nadli. The Member for Hay River South, Mrs. Groenewegen.
