Rethink revitalization: Wellbeing within Indigenous language revitalization
Date
2024
Authors
Manatowa-Bailey, Jacob
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Abstract
This doctoral project consists of a website Rethink Revitalization (https://languagewellbeing.net/) 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 question "How do we revitalize language safely 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.
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Keywords
Indigenous language revitalization, Wellbeing, Trauma, Reflective Practice, Mindfulness, Embodiment