In a landmark step toward language revitalization and reconciliation, the Manitoba government is launching a pilot project to translate Hansard, the official record of legislative proceedings, into the indigenous languages spoken in the province, Premier Wab Kinew announced this week.
The initiative will begin with Anishinaabemowin and aims to eventually include all seven indigenous languages used in Manitoba: Anishinaabemowin, Dakota, Cree, Anisininew, Metis, Inuit, and Dene.
“This project will generate a huge amount of Indigenous language text, which will help language learners, teachers, and artificial intelligence researchers work with our province’s first languages,” said Kinew. “I’m proud to announce this initiative on National Indigenous Languages Day, which honours the languages of the Anishinaabemowin, Dakota, Cree, Anisininew, Metis, Inuit, and Dene Peoples in Manitoba.”
Starting this spring, language experts will begin translating government proceedings from English and French into Anishinaabemowin, a task that will likely involve the creation of new vocabulary to accurately convey legislative terms. While the primary focus is on legislative transcripts, the pilot may later expand to include materials such as mandate letters and government news releases.
Hansard serves as the official transcript of all debates and proceedings in the Manitoba Legislative Assembly.
Premier Kinew emphasized that the pilot reflects Manitoba’s commitment to preserving and promoting Indigenous languages, aligning with broader national efforts to revitalize these languages and ensure their survival for future generations.
National Indigenous Languages Day, marked annually on March 31, celebrates the linguistic heritage of indigenous peoples in Canada and supports the preservation and promotion of their languages.