Tuesday, August 23

Topic for discussion:

What kinds of issues surround language in your region of the North? What kinds of relationships extend from these issues?

Summary:

In general, great concern was expressed for the decline in the use of many northern indigenous languages. Participants pointed to several causes of this:

• In the past schools did not offer indigenous languages for credit. This is still a problem faced in many areas today.
   
  
• The parents of many of today's northern youth were punished harshly for speaking indigenous languages in school.
   
  
• Many indigenous students today still suffer from bullying in schools because of their culture and language.
   
  
• There is a lack of indigenous people in management, policy and governance roles.
   
  
• There is a lack of teachers in higher grade levels who are fluent in indigenous languages.
   
  
• Many people who are fluent in indigenous languages are working in translation rather than education.
   
  
• Some people view indigenous languages as unimportant since they often do not increase employability in larger centers. These people often argue that it is a waste of effort to learn a language that is dying.
   
  

Some past examples of negative situations were discussed, including the State of Alaska's "English Only Initiative" which was endorsed by 69% of Alaskans, but luckily was defeated in court when challenged as a violation of free speech; and the Norwegian government's past stance against the Sámi people.

Luckily participants have begun to observe progress which is attempting rectify issues such as these. At the recent National Inuit Youth Council meetings language was named as one of the top three priorities (the other two being suicide/suicide prevention and education). Several strategies were put forward to start addressing language issues including:

• Having parents and relatives speaking to youth in indigenous languages.
   
  
• Mandatory school programs which involve the teaching of indigenous languages.
   
  

It was also noted that there are some more international programs underway trying to curb the tide of indigenous language extinction, such as the program led by Wade Davis through the National Geographic Society.

The discussions ended with some comments on what defines Arctic youth and the reaffirmation that it is important to increase the links between indigenous and non-indigenous youth to help break down some of the cultural barriers that form the root of so many of the issues facing Northern youth today. This being said, diversity adds richness and it is important to retain the differences of our cultures as we work together. It is hoped that Arctic youth will eventually be able to stand together and speak in a unified voice; the AYN is a first step towards this goal.

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