(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning, my fellow colleagues. (Translation ends) Language is the cornerstone of culture and heritage. As part of Aboriginal Languages Month, the NWT Literacy Council has issued a special challenge to the Members of this Assembly. The Council has asked us to set aside one day during which we speak in an aboriginal language whenever we address this Assembly. I am pleased to join you in announcing that today is Aboriginal Languages Day. Mr. Speaker, while I do not speak an aboriginal language, I will try to work some words in aboriginal languages into my statement today, so I hope Members and the interpreters will bear with me. Mr. Speaker, each of the NWT's aboriginal groups best expresses its unique world view and approach to life through its own language. If NWT children are to truly understand their culture, it is essential that they learn to communicate in their aboriginal language. Mr. Speaker, while they receive instruction in language and culture at school, it is important that this is reinforced in the home. (Translation) I encourage all parents who speak an aboriginal language to speak it to their children. (Translation ends)
-- Applause
Mr. Speaker, the NWT Literacy Council is encouraging communities across the NWT to celebrate aboriginal languages by organizing community and school events and speaking and reading in their aboriginal language whenever possible. Adults can also learn more about their culture by learning more about their language. As people work to develop their skill in speaking aboriginal languages, I urge them to consult their community's elders. (Translation unavailable) Our elders are our most important resource.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the staff of the Language Bureau for their work in supporting aboriginal languages in the Northwest Territories over the past 25 years. In addition to interpreting and translating, they develop new terminology to ensure that translations are precise and keep up with the demands of a changing world. The interpreter/communicators carry out their work with dedication and professionalism. I would like to thank them for the important work they do and the role they play in helping us understand each other.