Communication, Media, Culture, and Evolving Trends in the World of Indigenous Languages

Abstract

Indigenous language is a significant component of the cultural heritage of every community or nation. Aside from serving as a medium of communication, language serves as a window into a community or nation's historical and cultural heritage. Unfortunately, in the past century, many indigenous languages have suffered threats to their survival and continued use. This development is due mainly to colonialism and the wave of globalization that started on the eve of the 20th century. The so-called "world languages," such as English, French, Spanish, German, and Chinese are taking over as more preferred and widely spoken in indigenous communities despite their foreign origin and the long history of indigenous languages in these communities. Unless effective revitalization programs are embarked upon, the loss of more indigenous languages is imminent. The positive news, however, is that certain trends have evolved in the application of indigenous languages which portend opportunities for the revitalization and flourishing of indigenous languages in this present age of globalization. This lecture examines the connections between indigenous languages, communications, media and globalization, as well as evolving trends and future trajectories in the application of indigenous languages, with a view to advocating for more deliberate steps in the preservation of indigenous languages by respective stakeholders.