Discussion Post #9
David Kim
30262888
david.kim123@richmond.edu
When the language has no native speakers and is no longer passed down to new generations, a language dies. This can happen because of all different reasons, such as migration, colonization, political suppression, or cultural assimilation. Several languages around the world are at risk or have already become extinct because of those reasons. Continuing the vocabulary, grammar, and syntax of a language becomes very difficult when there are no people speaking or using it. Eventually, the language might become isolated and vanish. This loss of linguistic diversity is a significant loss of cultural heritage. Each language represents their knowledge, history, and identity and provides a unique perspective on the world. Fortunately, a ‘dead’ language can come back to life, through a process known as language reclamation or language revitalization. With support from linguists, some communities are creating language classes, immersion programs, and language preservation projects to revive their languages. Also, technology help such as language apps and online resources are being used to help prevent language extinction. The Hebrew language in Israel and the Maori language in New Zealand are examples of language revitalization. In conclusion, language death is a serious issue that threatens linguistic diversity. However, with sustained efforts to preserve and revitalize endangered languages, we can help these languages continue to be a crucial part of cultural heritage.
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