Nisg̱a’a Language & Culture

Directorate of Language & Culture

Ayuuḵhl Nisg̱a’a—the ancient laws and customs of the Nisg̱a’a people—informs, guides, and inspires the learning of Nisg̱a’a language and culture. The Nisg̱a’a Constitution provides that Simgigat (Chiefs), Sigidim-Haanaḵ’ (Matriarchs), and respected Nisg̱a’a elders advise Nisg̱a’a Government on matters relating to the traditional values of the Nisg̱a’a Nation through the Council of Elders, and that the Nisg̱a’a Government must respect and encourage the use of the Nisg̱a’a language and the practice of Nisg̱a’a culture. Nisg̱a’a culture is vibrant and strong. We are working to ensure the revival of our language keeps pace with this cultural renaissance.

Our Work

The Nisg̱a’a Lisims Government (NLG) is committed to protecting, preserving, promoting, and revitalizing Nisg̱a’a language and culture in all aspects of society. NLG’s Directorate of Language & Culture works to achieve this through:

  • development and maintenance of the catalogue system for Nisg̱a’a archives
  • digitizing audio and video recordings of Elders and past leaders
  • resource and administrative support for the Council of Elders, Language and Culture Authority, and various government committees
  • collaborating and supporting various language and culture initiatives by various NLG stakeholders
  • research and production of books and audio/visual resources on key aspects of Nisg̱a’a language and culture
  • supporting other NLG languages and culture initiatives.

For more information, contact: 250 633 3014.

The Language & Culture Directorate of Nisg̱a’a Lisims Government is funded by Heritage Canada under the Project/Programming called “Revitalizing Nisg̱a’a Cultural Identity by Preserving and Strengthening the Nisg̱a’a Language.”

Stakeholders:

  • Fluent speakers, language champions, and knowledge keepers
  • Nisg̱a’a Lisims Government (Council of Elders, Programs and Services, Hli G̱oothl Wilp Adoḵshl Nisg̱a’a, Youth, Access to Justice Department, Communications Department, Nisg̱a’a Child and Family Services, Lands and Resources)
  • Nisg̱a’a Village of New Aiyansh
  • Nisg̱a’a Village of Gitwinksihlkw
  • Nisg̱a’a Village of Lax̱g̱alts’ap
  • Nisg̱a’a Village of Ging̱olx
  • Prince Rupert/Port Edward Nisg̱a’a Urban Local representative
  • Terrace Nisg̱a’a Urban Local representative
  • Vancouver Nisg̱a’a Urban Local representative
  • SD #92 (Nisg̱a’a)
  • Nisg̱a’a Valley Health Authority
  • Wilp Wilx̱o’oskwhl Nisg̱a’a Institute
  • Nisg̱a’a Headstart and Nursery Programs
  • Community elder’s programs
  • Cultural dance groups, recreation groups, and societies
  • and others.

Nisg̱a’a Language & Culture