Schools, organizations mark National Indigenous Languages Day

Several schools and organizations marked National Indigenous Languages Day on March 31st. Mina Kerr-Lazenby penned an article for NS News about the history of the day and the resources available to readers interested in learning Indigenous languages. Lazenby also highlighted language programs and courses at Capilano University, Simon Fraser University, and the University of British Columbia. Upper Grand District School Board and the Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board (HWDSB) published statements about the history of the day. HWDSB also acknowledged the colonial roots of the education system and the importance of working in partnership with Indigenous communities to make language learning accessible in schools. The University of Victoria shared a compilation of stories and information about Indigenous language revitalization at the institution. “As an Indigenous person who was systematically denied the opportunity to grow up with my language, I cannot stress enough the importance of National Indigenous Languages Day,” said Qwul’sih’yah’maht Robina Thomas, VP Indigenous at UVic.