First Nations language champions were recognized in Vancouver

First Nations language champions were recognized in Vancouver in July for outstanding achievement in language revitalization. Reginald Dennis is a champion of the Tahltan language. He won the Youth Award, which honors individuals 18 to 30, who are learning their language and inspiring others. Bridget Dan, champion of the Secwepem||=ôctsín language, is the recipient of the Community Education Leadership Award, which honors an individual who is exemplifying excellence in language teaching and leadership in a community setting. Frances Brown, champion of the Heiltsuk language, won the School Education Award, which honors an individual who is exemplifying excellence in language teaching and leadership in a school setting. And the Lifetime Achievement Award, which honors an individual who has significantly contributed to the preservation and teaching of a First Nations language over their lifetime, was awarded to Mona Jules, champion of the Secwepem||=ôctsín language. “We are so proud of our language champions,” said Tracey Herbert, executive director at the First Peoples’ Heritage, Language and Culture Council. “They are a truly inspiring group of people who have dedicated their lives to keeping their languages alive for the next generation of speakers. We must continue to support their work.”