Djukun Language Revitalisation
“Language revitalisation will assist us to strengthen our connection to our country and keep our Djukun culture strong for future generations”
We are excited to share an inspiring milestone in the journey of the Djukun Nation, a testament to the resilience and spirit of our community. With the unwavering support of our Djukun Elders and Djukun community members, we have embarked on a remarkable project to awaken our sleeping language from a century-old slumber.
This pivotal initiative was sparked during my participation in the University of Queensland's (UQ) School of Languages and Cultures Indigenous Language Revitalisation Winter Program 2023. Realizing the Djukun language's absence from RUIL Unimelb 50-word map, I was encouraged by a UQ lecturer, and set out to make a change.
The Djukun Nation, in Broome, Western Australia, has taken significant strides despite no longer having fluent speakers of our language. Our collaboration with esteemed linguists familiar with Nyulnyulan languages of the Kimberley region, alongside partnerships with Oethica, the University of Queensland, the University of Melbourne Research Unit for Indigenous Language, and the Kimberley Language Resource Centre in Halls Creek, has fueled our progress. We extend our deepest gratitude to Ronald Roe, Senior Goolarabooloo Law Boss, for his guidance and wisdom.
The heart of our project lies in the creation of a Djukun language dictionary, a beacon of hope for the preservation and continuation of our culture, language, and traditional way of life on Djukun Country. This endeavour, primarily self-funded by our Djukun Elders and Djukun community members, signifies our commitment to teaching the Djukun language to our younger generations.
As we stand on the threshold of this new chapter in our language revitalization journey, we invite you to join us in supporting the Djukun Nation. Your support can help ensure the vibrancy of our language, culture, and heritage for generations to come. Together, we can celebrate and preserve the unique voice of the Djukun Nation.
Thank you for standing with us...
(Video Credit: University of Queensland School of Languages and Cultures)
