Te ‘Gana Tuvalu – Tuvalu Language Week
September 29 – October 5
The theme for Tuvalu Language Week 2024, ‘Taofi mau ki tau ‘gana, mo tou gaugaleo, me ko tou iloga tena’ which means ‘Uphold your language and dialect, for it is your identity’ highlights that language is a key part of who we are.
This year’s theme was prepared by Kaiga Tuvalu Otago based in Dunedin and endorsed by national leaders of the Tuvalu Language Week working group.
The community group elaborates on the theme by saying speaking your native language or dialect connects you to your ancestors and culture, creating a strong sense of belonging and pride. This helps maintain community bonds and ensures cultural traditions are passed down. Preserving one’s dialect is unique because it captures the special ways of speaking in a particular community, adding richness and diversity to the cultural tapestry.
Find out more about Tuvalu Language Week here:
https://www.mpp.govt.nz/programmes/pacific-language-weeks/tuvalu-language-week/