Global Voices, through its Rising Voices initiative, with the support of the Canadian Embassy in Mexico, presents a series of online conversations focusing on how indigenous communities in Mexico and Canada have been adopting technology and the internet as tools to promote and revitalize their native languages benefitting and impacting a new generation of potential speakers. These conversations will be an opportunity to engage with key language activists and advocates from Mexican indigenous and Canadian First Nations communities who have been utilizing the internet, digital media, and technology to promote and revitalize their languages. The conversations will also highlight the possibilities for cross-regional learning and exchange.

At the recent UNESCO meeting in Mexico City to kick off planning for the International Decade of Indigenous Languages, one of the working groups focused on the role of digital technologies and indigenous media in the campaign. This theme was also echoed throughout the proceedings in discussions about the importance of reaching and involving young people, a key ingredient in language vitality.

Language digital activism has been playing an increasingly important role in the overall strategy of language revitalization. Young people have been employing digital tools and taking do-it-yourself approaches to creating content in their languages and outreach to others. Resources such as digital language activism toolkit in development is one such approach to building capacity for young leaders to play a central role during this next decade.

With approximately 18 months to go before the start of the International Decade and the continued focus on the potential of digital technologies and the internet, what are the strategies needed to take things to the next level? How can language advocates partner successfully with policymakers to make a meaningful impact?