AFNQL advances Indigenous language revitalization with UNESCO visit

By Lucas-Matthew Marsh, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Iori:wase The Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador (AFNQL) wrapped up its diplomatic mission to Europe last month with a visit to UNESCO headquarters to raise awareness of the revitalization of Indigenous languages in the province. AFNQL Chief Francis Verreault-Paul emphasized that this visit was essential to ongoing efforts to preserve Indigenous cultures. “Our languages are inseparable from our well-being, our identities and our self-determination,” Verreault-Paul said. The delegation visited UNESCO headquarters on June 16, to showcase how First Nations languages, cultures, education and traditional knowledge contribute to community well-being and self-determination. AFNQL representatives met with officials from several UNESCO initiatives during the visit, including the Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, the International Decade of Indigenous Languages and the World…

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