20th Language Keepers conference kicks off in Saskatoon

Darlene Brander says there’s still a lot of work needed to revitalize Indigenous languages in Canada, but there are moments that remind her the work is worth it.

“We know the work is working when we hear the voices of the youth speaking the language,” said Brander, president of the Saskatchewan Indigenous Cultural Centre.

“Nothing's sweeter to the ear when you're hearing somebody who's eight or nine or 12 years old speaking the language with purpose and pride.”

The annual First Nations Language Keepers Gathering runs Tuesday and Wednesday at Prairieland Park in Saskatoon. The event — now in its 20th year — is organized by the Saskatchewan Indigenous Cultural Centre and brings together educators, academics and others working on Indigenous language preservation and revitalization.

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