Language revitalization and language policy
It is no secret that the world is home to a diverse range of cultures and languages. In fact, it is estimated that there are anywhere from 6,000 to 7,000 languages spoken on the planet today. Despite this linguistic diversity, however, many of these languages are facing the threat of extinction. In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of language revitalization and language policy in preserving and promoting these endangered languages.
Language revitalization is the process of bringing a language that is no longer widely spoken back into use. This can involve efforts to document the language, teach it to new generations, and even create new speakers through language revitalization programs. Although language revitalization has been practiced throughout history, it has gained increased attention in recent years due to the growing recognition of the many benefits of linguistic and cultural diversity.
Language policy, on the other hand, refers to the set of rules and regulations that govern language use within a particular society or nation. Language policy can take many forms, ranging from formal policies enacted by governments to more informal policies that are supported by communities themselves. Effective language policy can play a critical role in promoting the revitalization of endangered languages.
Perhaps the most important reason to support language revitalization and language policy is that they help to preserve and promote cultural diversity. Each language is a unique expression of the culture and way of life of the people who speak it. When a language dies, we lose not only a way of communication but also a window into the beliefs, values, and traditions of a community.
Supporting language revitalization can also have tangible benefits for the communities themselves. For example, research has shown that people who are fluent in more than one language tend to have better cognitive abilities, including improved problem-solving skills and greater creativity. Additionally, maintaining and promoting local languages can help to preserve traditional agricultural practices, medicinal knowledge, and other forms of local knowledge that are passed down through the generations.
One of the biggest challenges facing language revitalization and language policy is the lack of funding and resources. Many communities that are fighting to preserve their languages do not have the resources to do so effectively, and governments may not prioritize linguistic diversity given other pressing issues. That said, there are a number of promising examples of successful language revitalization efforts from around the world.
For example, the Maori language in New Zealand was almost extinct by the 1980s, with only around 20,000 speakers remaining. However, through a combination of language revitalization programs and new language policies, the number of Maori speakers has increased to around 125,000 today. Similarly, in 2019, Mexico enacted a new federal law aimed at promoting the use of indigenous languages in education, government, and the media.
Language revitalization and language policy are critical to preserving and promoting linguistic diversity. By supporting these efforts, we can help to ensure that each of these 6,000+ languages has a chance to thrive and contribute to the rich cultural tapestry of our planet. As individuals and communities, we can all play a role in supporting these efforts, from learning new languages ourselves to supporting language revitalization programs financially and through other means. Ultimately, the preservation of linguistic diversity is a cause that benefits us all.