Indigenous Language Sustainability During COVID-19

Date
2021-09-15
Authors
Enari, Dion
Supervisor
Item type
Journal Article
Degree name
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Hawaii at Manoa / University of Calgary
Abstract

This paper gives insights into the ways an Indigenous group has continued to teach and learn their language(s) during the COVID-19 pandemic. As an insider researcher from this community, I draw upon observations and dialogue among my people globally, as part of an inquiry into our language sustainability. Although social distancing and border closures hindered communal gatherings, this cohort continued to teach and learn their language(s). Many used digital forums such as social media, Zoom and Facebook to facilitate their language transmission. This article shares how this group has been able to maintain and sustain their language(s) in a time of global crisis, may their story support the Indigenous language fight.

Description
Keywords
Language; COVID-19; Pacific Island; Samoa; Innovation
Source
Journal of Indigenous Social Development. Volume 10, Issue 1 (2021), pp. 81-89.
DOI
Rights statement
This journal provides immediate open access to its content on the principle that making research freely available to the public supports a greater global exchange of knowledge.