Language
Our ancestral language is a vital part of our culture. It defines our uniqueness and fosters connections between children to Elders, students to teachers, and ourselves with our ancestors, land, and spirituality. Without our language, an essential part of our community and cultural identity is missing.
Sadly, like many First Nations in Canada, Toquaht’s language has suffered severe threats and near extinction due to the impacts of colonialism. The detrimental actions imposed upon our Nation has resulted in a scarcity of fluent speakers, causing immense loss. To address this, Toquaht has prioritized language revitalization efforts.
We have made significant strides towards revitalizing our language over the years, but the journey is long, and we remain determined. One crucial step in this endeavor is the establishment of our cultural department, which will serve as a foundation for realizing our vision of a cultural wellness center.
The Toquaht Language Program is a valuable resource that supports our language revitalization efforts. You can find more information about the program and its initiatives at The Toquaht Language Project.
Culture and Language
To celebrate and preserve Toquaht’s cultural heritage, the Culture Group gathers in Macoah every second Monday to engage in drumming, singing, dancing, and discuss cultural teachings and protocols. We also provide equipment for citizens to do their own canning, smoking, and vacuum packing of fish to promote access to traditional foods.
There is also a weekly language group that gathers in Macoah for citizens interested in learning how to speak their language. Toquaht can support citizens who are interested in traveling to Macoah to attend culture and language activities with travel funding. Contact Pamela at pamelaf@toquaht.ca for more information.
Other Language Resources
TNG Glossary of nuucǎan̓uł Terms
North Island Nuu-chah-nulth language programs
Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council language resources
First Voices language keyboard (Nuu-chah-nulth language)
Language Geek (access to other traditional language keyboards)