Jeff Bear/Marianne Jones
Ravens and Eagles Productions
24 minutes • 2003

Pre-contact, the Haida language flourished with as many different dialects as there were villages. Today, few fluent speakers remain. Some worry that the Haida people stand to lose a unique worldview that is embodied in their indigenous tongue. Diane Brown, coordinator of the Skidegate Haida Immersion Program, points out that one of the biggest challenges is a lack of interest on the part of young people, despite the fact that through her program they have the rare opportunity to study with fluent elders. Elementary school teachers try to remedy a waning interest in the Haida language by making it part of everyday lessons, bringing elders into the class to assist in teaching songs and prayer.

Subject(s): Community dynamics, Indigenous people–Haida, Language

To view clips or to find more information about the series producers, visit: www.urbanrez.ca