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Topic

Rethink Revitalization: Wellbeing within Indigenous Language Revitalization

Department of Indigenous Education

Date & location

• Wednesday, October 30, 2024
• 11:00 A.M.
• MacLaurin Building, Room A250 

Examining Committee

Supervisory Committee

• Dr. Onowa McIvor, Department of Indigenous Education, University of Victoria (Supervisor)
• Dr. Ewa Czaykowska-Higgins, Department of Indigenous Education, UVic (Member)
• Dr. Renee Monchalin, School of Public Health and Social Policy, UVic (Outside Member)

External Examiner

• Dr. Candace Galla, Language & Literacy Education, University of British Columbia

Chair of Oral Examination

• Dr. Tatiana Degai, Department of Anthropology, UVic

Abstract

This doctoral project consists of a website and this written companion piece. The website uses digital space, personal experience, and applied knowledge to explore intergenerational trauma’s impact on Indigenous Language Revitalization (ILR) practitioners. Building interdisciplinary connections between trauma, mindfulness, and embodiment, I consider how ILR practitioners can start to understand, and address, the influence of colonization on their lives. In doing so, I work from an understanding that Indigenous language revitalization isn’t just about language. Language revitalization is about everything related to being human. Language connects to our identities, our values, our beliefs, and our relationships. Most importantly, from my perspective, language revitalization connects to--and impacts—our wellbeing. I focus on the ques on "How do we revitalize language safely--nurturing resiliency—in ways that expand wellbeing?”. Grounded in my personal experience, I seek to illuminate concepts, perspectives, and practices that might help other ILR practitioners reduce stress, promote health, and prevent burnout.