In recognition of the important role language plays in connecting us to our cultures and histories, the Whitby Library is launching an exciting new program in honour of National Indigenous Languages Day (March 31). Throughout the month of March at the Central Library, look for an Indigenous word-of-the-day that will highlight some of the languages spoken across Canada.
Our dedicated staff have worked hard on researching five featured languages for the display in our Reference Department on the second floor. The languages selected represent the cardinal directions: Inuktitut for the North, Mi’kmaq for the East, Ojibwe (Anishinaabemowin) and Kanienʼkéha for the South (these are two languages spoken in and close to Whitby), and Plains Cree for the West.
According to UNESCO, all Indigenous languages in Canada are critically endangered due to assimilationist government policies. It is estimated that pre-colonization, there were over 300 Indigenous languages spoken in North America. Today, there are only 70 that are still spoken in Canada.
“This is a day for Canadians to reflect on the significant contributions of Indigenous languages to Canada’s linguistic and cultural history and diversity, as well as the importance of continued support for language revitalization efforts to shape a stronger Canada,” said Ronald E. Ignace, Canadian Commissioner of Indigenous languages.
Beginning March 2, look for the word-of-the-day on the second floor of the Central Library at the Reference information desk. As the month progresses, each word will be added to a display creating a powerful art installation in celebration of this important day.