GATINEAU, June 20, 2024

Canada’s history of discriminatory government policies and practices has been detrimental to Indigenous languages and significantly contributed to their erosion. Restoring and promoting language is an important part of healing, reconciliation, and fostering a strong sense of identity and community.

On the eve of National Indigenous Peoples Day, the Honourable Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Canadian Heritage, announced the launch of Canada’s National Action Plan for the International Decade of Indigenous Languages. The Department of Canadian Heritage has incorporated input from First Nations, Inuit and Métis partners to develop the National Action Plan, which aims to support Indigenous peoples in defining their vision and advance their own action plans to support the International Decade of Indigenous Languages.

The National Action Plan has four pillars that will contribute to the revitalization, advancement and visibility of Indigenous languages in Canada. The four pillars are: supporting Indigenous peoples in advancing their vision for the Decade; implementing the Indigenous Languages Act; engaging Indigenous youth; and creating lasting legacies.

Through the funding provided to implement the Indigenous Languages Act, Indigenous communities have multiplied their efforts to reclaim, revitalize, maintain and strengthen their languages.