Indigenous language in B.C. is facing a critical state of emergency, largely due to historical Canadian government policies aimed at assimilating Indigenous peoples into English-speaking, non-Indigenous society. However, located in northern B.C., the Children of the Taku, a non-profit society working to protect the land, culture and language of the Taku River Tlingit People, is leading a revival of their language.
Despite the passing of all their Elders who were fluent in the language, a new cohort of Lingít speakers is emerging. Through the use of an innovative curriculum and methodology, a group of Tlingit individuals and settler-allies are progressing from zero speaking ability to advanced fluency.
Together, with Dr. Christine Schreyer from UBC Okanagan, they are documenting the journey of these cohort members while also capturing stories of language loss through residential schools and the resilient efforts of community members, particularly Elders, to revitalize and preserve their linguistic heritage for future generations.
To learn more about this project, we spoke with K’èdukà Jack, the executive director of the Children of the Taku Society, and Dr. Schreyer, an associate professor of anthropology at UBC Okanagan, who has been working with the Taku River Tlingit First Nation on a variety of initiatives since 2005.
In this conversation, we explore how their efforts are not only restoring a critically endangered language but also strengthening cultural identity and community resilience.
There are so many insights shared that will be valuable not only to other communities working on language revitalization but also to academics interested in learning how they can support these efforts.
Content Advisory: This interview discusses residential school experiences, cultural suppression, and the long-term impacts on Indigenous peoples and communities. These topics may be distressing or triggering for some listeners and readers, especially for those who have experienced trauma or systemic violence. We acknowledge the deep pain and harm that such discussions may evoke and encourage you to prioritize your well-being.
This initiative is supported by the Community-University Engagement Support Fund.