Jaskwaan Amanda Bedard: Haida Language Teacher - A Source of Power and a Journey of Healing
Producer:
Fraser McKeen
Director:
Amy Huynh
Editor:
Judit Mendez-Puig
Jaskwaan Amanda Bedard, Haida Language Teacher - A Source of Power and a Journey of Healing.
There was a period of time where the Haida language was quiet, when it was oppressed. Thanks to the work of resilient elders and young people passionate about this fundamental part of their culture, there has been an increasing number of resources available for people who want to practice or learn to speak Haida. As a Haida Language and Culture Curriculum Implementation Teacher, Jaskwaan creates a nurturing space for her community to access their language.
"Feeling like I can communicate in my language is such an inner strength that I didn't have before"
Jaskwaan grew up seeing her Elders speaking the traditional language that was greatly unknown to her generation. After completing a mentorship with an elder in the village, she’s continuing to learn and now also teach as a Haida Language and Culture Teacher in her community. The program now facilitates opportunities for people to have access to their language.
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