English is the language of opportunity.why bother to teach indigenous language?
While English is indeed considered the global language of opportunity, teaching and preserving indigenous languages is still important for several reasons:
1. Cultural Preservation: Indigenous languages are part of the unique cultural heritage of a community or a group of people. They carry their traditions, beliefs, stories, and knowledge. By teaching and preserving indigenous languages, we help maintain cultural diversity and ensure that this valuable heritage is not lost over time.
2. Identity and Sense of Belonging: Language is intricately connected to one's identity and sense of belonging. For indigenous communities, their languages serve as a means of expressing their unique cultural identity and strengthening their communal bonds. By teaching these languages, we empower indigenous individuals to retain a strong connection to their roots and maintain a sense of belonging within their community.
3. Communication and Inclusion: Indigenous languages play a crucial role in facilitating communication within a community. They provide a platform for interpersonal interactions, storytelling, education, and the preservation of traditional knowledge. By supporting and promoting indigenous languages, we foster inclusivity within communities and ensure that everyone has access to information and opportunities, regardless of their language background.
4. Linguistic Diversity: Language is not merely a tool of communication; it also shapes our perception and understanding of the world. Each language possesses its own unique structure, vocabulary, and ways of conceptualizing concepts. By preserving indigenous languages, we contribute to the richness and diversity of linguistic expressions, which enhances our understanding of human thought and cultural diversity as a whole.
In conclusion, teaching indigenous languages is essential for cultural preservation, fostering a sense of identity and belonging, facilitating communication and inclusion, and maintaining linguistic diversity. It goes beyond the practicality of English and recognizes the fundamental importance of embracing and valuing all languages and cultures.