Language and culture are the heart of Indigenous identity, worldview, and community life. Colonization sought to erase Indigenous languages and cultural practices through policies like residential schools and bans on ceremonies. This loss deeply impacts Indigenous Peoples’ connection to heritage, well-being, and sovereignty.

Reconciliation in language and culture means supporting Indigenous peoples in reclaiming, revitalizing, and celebrating their languages and traditions—a vital step toward healing and affirming Indigenous rights.

The Impact of Colonialism on Indigenous Languages and Culture

The forced removal of children to residential schools disrupted language and culture transmission. Indigenous languages were punished, and cultural practices prohibited or stigmatized. Many Indigenous languages are endangered, with few fluent speakers remaining.

Despite these challenges, Indigenous communities show incredible resilience and creativity in reclaiming what was lost.

Principles of Language and Cultural Reconciliation

• Respect and Recognition: Uphold Indigenous language rights and cultural sovereignty as fundamental human rights.
• Community Leadership: Indigenous peoples must lead language and cultural revitalization based on their own priorities and knowledge.
• Education and Transmission: Support immersion programs, land-based learning, and intergenerational teaching to pass languages and culture forward.
• Collaboration and Support: Governments, institutions, and individuals should provide sustained funding and policy support without imposing outside agendas.
• Visibility and Celebration: Encourage public recognition and celebration through media, arts, festivals, and official events.

What Reconciliation Requires

• Indigenous language legislation and policies recognizing and protecting languages
• Funding for Indigenous-led language nests, schools, and media programs
• Inclusion of Indigenous languages and cultural teachings at all education levels
• Support for cultural ceremonies, artistic expression, and land-based practices
• Removal of barriers and discrimination against Indigenous language use in public spaces

How You Can Help

• Learn a local Indigenous language or support language learning programs
• Attend cultural events and ceremonies with respect
• Support Indigenous artists, storytellers, and media creators
• Advocate for Indigenous language rights and funding in your community
• Share Indigenous culture and language content responsibly and with permission
• Recognize and respect Indigenous place names and land acknowledgments