Current Press Releases

Mr. Speaker, in 1993 the Assembly of First Nations declared the month of March to be “Aboriginal Languages Month”. Since then, we have been celebrating Aboriginal languages and cultures during that month on an annual basis. There will be a variety of things happening in different communities around the North such as radio contests and luncheons at the community Teaching and Learning Centres. There will also be Aboriginal Languages material on display and a luncheon held here in the Great Hall on Thursday.

We recognize that language play a crucial and essential role in the lives of the Aboriginal communities in the NWT. It reflects various aspects of their culture, such as traditions, customs, beliefs, values, history and achievements. Language is important to our Aboriginal people because it gives them the ability to express themselves in their own way and that in itself strengthens their identity as a distinct people.

We also want to recognize with gratitude the many dedicated individuals and volunteers who work at revitalizing and maintaining their Aboriginal languages. I encourage you to continue your language work and to take pride in your contribution to keep your language alive.

I want to give some assurance to the language communities that the GNWT is committed to continue its support of language and cultural activities. With support and commitment from all language communities, I am sure that our coordinated efforts will show some positive results.

I urge all language groups to actively participate in the celebration of language and culture in their communities during the month of March. MASI.