Statement in response to the TRC's Calls to Action
The Canadian Association of Applied Linguistics recognizes its responsibility as an association to respond to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action.
We do so in recognition of the words of the Honourable Justice Murray Sinclair, the Truth and Reconciliation Commissioner, who said: "Whatever you do, make sure you don't stop doing it. This is a long-term job."
Therefore, we commit our efforts to reconciliation by supporting:
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Training of indigenous language teachers
A bachelor's degree in Indigenous language and diploma programs at the college and university levels. -
The work of researchers, educators and students in maintaining, revitalizing and strengthening indigenous languages.
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The development of language curricula with Indigenous content and perspectives.
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Integrating education for reconciliation into teacher training programs (developing intercultural understanding, empathy and respect; supporting language teaching that takes into account residential schools and Indigenous history).
Our actions
To date, we have completed or are planning to complete the following actions:
Include keynote speakers at ACLA annual conferences
Organize a 2016 joint roundtable with the Canadian Linguistics Association and SSHRC on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's language-related calls to action
Organize the 2023 ACLA Congress Guest Symposium: IONKWAKWENIONHÁTIE – HAUDENOSAUNEE WOMEN, KINSHIP AND LANGUAGE RESURGENCE IN KAHNAWÀ:KE
Plan presentations and roundtables on Indigenous languages at ACLA annual conferences
Support funding initiatives that specifically target professional activities that promote awareness among our members and that financially support the participation of an Indigenous graduate student member of ACLA in the annual conference, for example, the Indigenous Graduate Student Scholarship
Add the role of Indigenous Languages Advocate, ACLA Executive Board Member