Event to celebrate Indigenous languages

Charles Darwin University (CDU), Batchelor Institute of Indigenous Tertiary Education and the NT Government’s Aboriginal Interpreter Service (AIS) will hold a symposium celebrating the International Year of Indigenous Languages.

The “Let’s Talk Aboriginal Languages” symposium on 31 May will discuss the challenges and future for teaching and using Indigenous languages as part of the United Nation’s International Year of Indigenous Languages.

The observance aims to raise awareness of the endangerment of Indigenous languages across the world with the objective of establishing a link between language, development, peace and reconciliation.

Yolngu Studies coordinator with CDU’s Northern Institute, Yasunori Hayashi said the aim of the symposium was to celebrate the vibrancy and significance of the Top End’s Indigenous languages.

“For a long time, CDU has been growing its knowledge of Indigenous languages, both in terms of understanding the cultural and social significance of these languages to those who speak them and teaching them at a higher education level,” he said.

Speakers will explore how digital technologies can support Indigenous language work and the significant communication challenges in Indigenous health care where staff and patients don’t share the same language and cultural background.

AIS Trainer Steve Swartz also will discuss whether the AIS needs to add translation of written text to its current role oral interpreting.

A reverse role-play mock courtroom session will provide the audience with an insight into what it is like to be an Aboriginal person who speaks English as a third, fourth or even fifth language in a court situation.

The session aims to raise awareness of how easy confusion can arise in these types of environments.

For further information about the “Let’s Talk About Aboriginal Languages” symposium visit W: cdu.edu.au/northern-institute/events/lets-talk-aboriginal-languages-symposium2019

To register visit W: eventbrite.com.au