The Alberta Language Initiative and the Implications for Indigenous Languages
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.14288/cjne.v29i2.196391Abstract
Language is the essence of our being, of who we are. It's the defense against assimilation. If we lose our language, then we've truly lost. (Frank Weaselhead, Blackfoot Elder, The Canadian Indigenous Languages and Literacy Development Institute, Edmonton, July 14, 2004). his in itself is interesting language policy direction; however, for Indigenous people in Alberta and their languages it brings a number of concerns. What will this requirement mean for Indigenous languages, language instructors, and language teachers? Who will ensure that their needs are planned for? What will this policy directive mean for Indigenous children? Will it be sufficient to support their Indigenous language development? Will it affect the revitalization of the Indigenous languages of Alberta? What else needs to be done?