Indigenous languages are more than communication. They are living connections to land, culture, and spirit. These languages also carry unique ways of understanding the world. Despite the impacts of colonization and residential schools, communities are reclaiming their languages through daily practice, teachings, and new tools. This page offers resources, including websites and apps, to support learning and revitalization, recognizing that these languages are vital: to the land, to culture, and to community, as well as for future generations.
“Our language comes from the land, our language describes everything from the land, and you also have to know how to listen to those things, and it’s very very important” ~ Nelliane Cromarty (2025)
Speak Indigenous is an initiative dedicated to celebrating and revitalizing Indigenous languages across Canada. With over 70 different Indigenous languages spoken by First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities—many of which are endangered—the initiative emphasizes the urgent need to preserve this vital aspect of cultural identity. Language loss is not inevitable; individuals and organizations, both Indigenous and non-Indigenous, can play a role in reversing this trend.
Creating safe and supportive spaces for Indigenous language learners and speakers is important. These spaces affirm the value of Indigenous languages and help foster a sense of belonging. Speak Indigenous encourages curiosity and engagement with Indigenous languages, promoting learning and visibility through regional efforts and public materials. By making Indigenous languages more visible and accessible, the initiative supports a movement toward cultural preservation and linguistic resilience.
“Indigenous languages hold a worldview that’s not translatable… that’s why it’s so important to protect the languages and to share those languages.”
~Tanya McDougall (2025)
