The governments of Canada and the NWT are set to invest $17.7 million to support Indigenous languages in the territory.
The two governments announced the new investment, which will be split into $5.9 increments over three years, on Aug. 26.
GNWT Minister of Education, Culture, and Employment Caitlin Cleveland called the deal "critical," and said it will "further support the availability of Indigenous language initiatives, services and instruction across the Northwest Territories."
"This funding will help bring Indigenous languages into classrooms, organizations, workplaces and communities over the coming years," Cleveland added. "Through our collective commitment and sustained funding for language revitalization and language access, we will continue to work with Indigenous people and governments to ensure Indigenous languages are protected, promoted and celebrated.SA国际影视传媒�
The funding will be spread among Indigenous governments, Indigenous organizations, education bodies, communications societies and community radio stations.
It will be used to support language learning and development initiatives, community cultural programs and resources, Indigenous media and broadcasting, and the right of Indigenous governments to lead and manage their own language revitalization efforts.
A portion of the funding from will be used by the GNWT to continue its Mentor-Apprentice Program, to provide Indigenous language revitalization scholarships and to facilitate the agreement.
SA国际影视传媒淚ndigenous languages are essential to the strength and unity of communities in the Northwest Territories," NWT MP Michael McLeod said. "This renewed funding agreement will allow for the continuation of essential work in revitalizing these languages, which are vital to the identity and heritage of our people. By doing so, we ensure that Indigenous voices are heard, taught and seen within the Northwest Territories.SA国际影视传媒�
When contacted for his reaction to the new deal, Nahanni Butte Chief Steve Vital told SA国际影视传媒 he saw it as "the right step" by the GNWT and federal government.
"Our language is one of the main pillars of our existence," he said. "Language revitalization will cultivate a sense of self-worth and cultural identity for our people, especially the youth.
"The best way to know a culture thoroughly is to understand the language SA国际影视传媒� it radiates the deep connection to our heritage."
Dene National Chief George Mackenzie echoed that sentiment, calling the promotion of "at risk" Dene languages "a fundamental human right."
"Language revitalization's impact is important to our people's health and well-being," Mackenzie said. "The Dene language not only offers a connection to the past but also serves as a key element in shaping a thriving future for generations to come. All our stories told in our Dene languages are built into our connection with the land, animals, and others. Dene languages are our distinct connection to who we come from and where we are headed. Our work is to teach, use and ensure that Dene languages are heard and spoken.
"It is imperative that the GNWT and federal partners take on the responsibility to ensure that Dene languages are not just preserved, but also made accessible in all acts of governance in Denendeh," he added.
