02 Mar SLCC Language Video

Truth and Reconciliation: learning the language is preserving the language

“We call upon the federal government to acknowledge that Indigenous rights include Indigenous language rights”

“Indigenous languages are a fundamental and valued element of Canadian culture and society, and there is an urgency to preserve them.”

“The preservation, revitalization, and strengthening of Indigenous languages and cultures are best managed by Indigenous people and communities.”

– Calls to Action, Truth and Reconciliation Commission

Join SLCC Cultural Ambassadors T’ec Georgina Dan and Tsawaysia Dominique Nahanee as they share common words to help start your language journey. Speaking the language of ancestors, parents and future generations, these Ucwalmícwts (Lílw̓at) and Sḵwx̱wú7mesh sníchim (Squamish) words are being shared in hopes that one day, the same greetings and names will be common place in the Sea to Sky. Imagine a new world where workers at the local coffee shop are greeting guests with the mother tongue of the ancient cedars, the friendly phrases of the original peoples of this land.

For Indigenous youth working at the Squamish Lílw̓at Cultural Centre here in Whistler, BC, their feet know they are home when the ground is touched, their eyes know they are in place when rivers, mountains and people meet, and their ears know the comfort of belonging when the words of their community’s greetings resonate through a room.

Continue your journey into Indigenous languages by visiting the Squamish Lílw̓at Cultural Centre in Whistler, BC between now and May 23, 2022 and take part in the immersive “Our Living Languages” exhibit.

We raise our hands in thanks to the Resort Municipality of Whistler for supporting the development of this video. Huy Chexw! Kukw`stumc`kalap!