Northwest Territories Aboriginal Languages Plan A Shared ...

6.0 AN NWT VISION FOR ABORIGINAL LANGUAGESAvision describes what we would like to see in the future. It defines how we feel things should work out once all ofour activities have been completed. Generally, visions describe the long-term view – what would we like to see tenor twenty years from now. In this case, the vision describes how we want Aboriginal languages to be used in thefuture.After talking with many people in locations across the NWT it appears thatthere is broad agreement on a general vision for Aboriginal languages.People believe that our vision should be:“The students of today were raised with computers andsee no limitations. They see horizons of opportunities.Wow to have that outlook on life!”Fibbie TattiAboriginal languages are used extensively, on a daily basis, tocommunicate in NWT homes and communities, as well as within the organizations and agencies providingservices to the public.To achieve this vision it is important to recognize and agree on our shared understanding of some of the key beliefs andvalues that will support our activities. During the development of this plan, eleven shared understandings were identifiedand these are listed below:1. Aboriginal languages strengthen the individual and group identities of Aboriginal peoples.2. A strong sense of identity is a key to healthy people and healthy communities.3. Aboriginal languages contribute to the overall body of knowledge of human understanding and history their losswould harm all people.4. Languages provide a means of communications, and also transmit the history, social, emotional, spiritualknowledge of cultures and people.46