MLA Calls for All-Party Support for Aboriginal Languages

09-Dec-2009

Whitehorse:  Darius Elias, MLA for Vuntut Gwitchin, is hopeful that Yukon Party and New Democratic Party MLAs will support the recognition and protection of Aboriginal languages in the Yukon.     

“Aboriginal languages are an essential part of Yukon’s rich history.  But their role isn’t just in the past: vibrant Aboriginal languages are fundamentally important to healthy, resilient Yukon communities and to the continuation of Yukon’s rich linguistic heritage,” Elias said.  “These are values that transcend party lines, and I’m hopeful that the Yukon Party and the New Democratic Party will stand up today in support of Aboriginal languages.”

This afternoon, the Legislative Assembly will be debating Elias’ motion to establish an independent, non-partisan Commission on Yukon Aboriginal Language Protection to canvass Yukoners about how Aboriginal languages should be nurtured and sustained.  Elias hopes that all MLAs will vote in favour of forming the Commission, which would consult widely with members of the public and develop recommendations as to how Aboriginal languages should be preserved. 

Without protection, Elias warns, threatened Aboriginal languages may eventually become completely extinct.  “The time for the government to act is now,” he says.  ‘Every day that passes without our public government recognizing how important Aboriginal languages are not only to our past, but also to our future, brings us closer to losing them.  I think all MLAs, regardless of party affiliation, recognize that as a tragedy we have to prevent.”

For additional information contact:
Shay Smart 667-5081