Linguistic diversity is a key feature of Europe, but the parity between languages hasn’t always been balanced, and in different regions and countries, the local languages have become a minority, vulnerable or at risk of being lost entirely.
Hitzargiak – Languages Illuminating each other is a project that brings good practices in promoting and maintaining European languages together as well as linking organizations and institutions working to revitalize languages.
The Hitzargiak, mid-June conference was held in Donostia / San Sebastian. This is also the European Capital of Culture 2016.
Helen Thomas, Principal Officer of Menter Iaith Môn (Anglesey’s Language Initiative) was invited to share information about the work of the Welsh Language Initiatives. Specific focus was given to the work undertaken in Ynys Môn (Anglesey) with children and young people, especially but not exclusively with Theatr Ieuenctid Môn (Anglesey’s Youth Theatre) as one of their flagship community projects.
Talking about the conference Helen said:
“It was a great opportunity for us to raise the profile of all the work we are doing as Language Initiatives – on a national level as well as our work on a local level.
“The work of the Language Initiatives is unique – which is to be celebrated. A number of valuable contacts have been created and we will work to ensure that we are able to draw on the knowledge and experiences of others in order to further enrich the experience we’re offering them at a grassroots level, and in particular for our communities. “
Visit Menter Iaith Môn’s website for more information about the work of the local initiative to promote Welsh.