National Indigenous Languages Day
- Mar 31
- 2 min read
March 31st is National Indigenous Languages Day; a day to recognize and honour over 70 distinct Indigenous languages spoken across Canada and to support Indigenous Peoples in their efforts to reclaim, revitalize, and maintain their languages. Indigenous languages are deeply rooted in Indigenous Peoples’ worldview and are an important step for culture, identity and knowledge that are expressed and passed on to future generations. The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) created this day to raise awareness of Indigenous languages and build support for their preservation. Since then, it has continued to be recognized each year on March 31st.
Many Indigenous languages in Canada remain at risk. According to Statistics Canada, approximately one in eight Indigenous people reported being able to speak an Indigenous language well enough to conduct a conversation. The loss of Indigenous languages is deeply connected to the impacts of colonization, including residential schools and other assimilation policies, such as the Indian Act, which contributed to the loss and suppression of many Indigenous languages.
This day also recognizes the strength, resilience, and ongoing language reclamation efforts led by Indigenous communities, Elders, and knowledge keepers. Language and culture play an important role in the sense of belonging and connection to community, especially for children and youth. Children can benefit from the stories and teachings of Elders, community events, and traditional activities that help keep language and culture alive.
There are many meaningful ways to recognize and engage with National Indigenous Languages Day. Families, educators, practitioners, and community members can learn greetings, explore language learning resources and take time to listen to Indigenous stories and teachings.
Children and youth can also engage with books that celebrate Indigenous identity, language and culture, such as:
– The Rainbow by Jean Miso
– When We Were Alone by David Robertson
Taking time to learn, listen and engage with Indigenous languages is one of many meaningful ways to support identity, culture, and community strength for future generations.
