The Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́ First Nation is looking to interview Elders in the hope of using the recordings to create new language learning materials and share their stories.
The next round of interviews will be held on July 4-5. Sharon Mandeville, the First Nation’s language coordinator, said she currently has about eight people scheduled and will try to host interviews monthly, to get as many stories as she can.
“Language is the heart of our culture and identity,” Mandeville said, and recording the stories supports intergenerational collaboration and brings together Elders and youth.
“Elders are the keepers of our language and tradition … our youth are the future,” she said.
“By utilizing modern technology, they can document and share our language resources, ensuring that it’s accessible to everyone.”
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The interviews will be used to create videos to be shared with the public, possibly on YouTube.
An honorarium of $250 will be paid to people who participate in the interviews.
Mandeville stressed the importance of increasing funding for projects like this one.
“Language revitalization requires long-term commitment and resources,” Mandeville said, adding that funding is essential for language programs and classes, development of educational materials and resources, training and support for language teachers, and community-based language activities and events.
Elders who are interested in being interviewed are encouraged to reach out to Sharon Mandeville at Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́ First Nation by phone (867-695-3131 ext 1012) or by email.
