The provincial government of Manitoba, Canada, announced that it is partnering with the nonprofit Indigenous Languages of Manitoba, Inc. and providing $300,000 for the delivery of programs to build Indigenous-language proficiency, literacy, and translation capacity
The one-time grant will support the creation and operation of two programs over the next three years. One program will focus on language programming and apprenticeships to increase the number of proficient Indigenous-language speakers. The second program will focus on translator training to advance literacy and written skills with the aim of supporting an increase in the overall number of Indigenous-language translators.
“Our people have a right to their language and to be connected to their cultures,” said Melanie Kennedy, executive director of Indigenous Languages of Manitoba. “This funding will give us the opportunity to balance the scales to build long-term capacity and to genuinely make an impact when it comes to the survival of our languages, while paving a path of acceptance and opportunity for our children and future generations.”
According to the province, Indigenous Languages of Manitoba, which focuses on promoting the survival of Indigenous languages, is the only place where language services are available for all seven Indigenous languages recognized under Manitoba’s Aboriginal Languages Recognition Act: Ininímowin (Cree), Dakota, Dene, Inuktitut, Michif, Anishinaabemowin (Ojibway), and Anishininimowin (Oji-Cree). The nonprofit’s services are used by a number of organizations, including several government departments.
“The demand for Indigenous-language services continues to grow throughout the province, but the existing capacity to provide those services is limited,” said Alan Lagimodiere, Indigenous Reconciliation and Northern Relations Minister. “This partnership with Indigenous Languages of Manitoba will increase the number of proficient speakers and qualified translators in the province, strengthening the languages and ensuring timely access to critical information in Indigenous languages.”
Read Full Article from CBC (Canada) (02/10/22)
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