Tourism – Alex Buri

TĀŁTĀN ZOOM LESSONS – IF YOU DON’T USE IT, YOU LOSE IT!

In other department news, we continued to deliver Tāłtān language lessons via Zoom. Each lesson is carefully curated by the Elders and speakers and facilitated by Hayle Gallup. The motto for each lesson is, “if you don’t use it, you lose it” and use it we do!

We have had foundational lessons teaching participants how to introduce themselves, basic greetings and pleasantries, simple commands, and more! Each lesson begins with a review of the previous lesson before learning new concepts and language. Mēduh to all those who have joined each session.

Lessons have been full of joy, connecting, and learning and it has been a pleasure being a part of something so special. This initiative has been a success because of all those who participated, asked questions, and came with good spirits and open hearts. Each lesson is recorded and available to Tahltans in the TCG website Members Only Section.

DOCUMENTATION SPECIALIST UPDATE – JULIA PAYNE

Julia’s main focus during the latter parts of winter and early spring was to work on the Dictionary Project. She has now redirected efforts to working with Tāłtān speakers and Elders to document important aspects of language and culture. A part of her role also includes supporting the Culture and Heritage Department by documenting important cultural initiatives where our mandates intersect between Language and Culture.

She has been documenting Elders in the territory as well as travelling to those outside of the territory who have expressed interest in working with her through this very important position. Julia has begun creating her summer schedule to work with speakers and Elders to document Tāłtān and important cultural aspects.

Again, if any Tāłtān speakers or Elders would like to meet with Julia, or if a member knows of anyone who would like to work with her, in or outside of the territory, please reach out to Pamela Labonte, TCG Language Director.