THE battle to stop traditional Australian languages dying out has received a huge boost with the opening of the Gumbaynggirr Aboriginal Language and Culture Nest in Coffs Harbour.
Hundreds gathered at the Coffs Harbour Education Campus yesterday for the official launch attended by Gumbaynggirr elders, community members and NSW Aboriginal Affairs Minister Victor Dominello.
The Nest is designed to integrate schools, TAFE, universities and Aboriginal communities to language resources in a bid to keep people both speaking and passing on the language.
Mr Dominello told the large crowd language was a cornerstone of keeping traditional culture alive and maintaining Australia’s national identity.
“Language is critically important, not just for Aboriginal people, but for national identity,” Mr Dominello said.
“The most important thing government can do, in my view, is bring people together.
“The whole idea is that we inspire young people, Aboriginal or not, to really be passionate about their language.”
- This article originally appears at:
- http://www.coffscoastadvocate.com.au/news/culture-nest-ensure-gumbaynggir-language-isnt-lost/2175916/
- Article taken from the following publication:
- The Coffs Coast Advocate
- Article submitted by:
- Author:
- Craig Hoggett
