Native Language Revival Focus of Conference

Native Language Revival Focus of Conference

Wednesday, November 03, 2004 at 13:58

An Aboriginal language and culture conference is taking place in Prince Albert over the next few days.

Delegates are talking about what can be done to spur a language revival in their communities.

They’re looking at national and regional initiatives, as well as language retention programs that have been successful in other countries.

One of Saskatchewan’s two Cree-speaking MLAs will be making an appearance at this week’s gathering. Culture Minister Joan Beatty will deliver a speech tomorrow night.

Most experts say all but 3 of Canada’s 50 Aboriginal languages will become extinct within a generation or two.

The federal government has committed 172 million dollars over 10 years to help reverse that trend.