Silenced No More

Language shapes a nation, a culture, an identity. It is how individuals connect with one another and communicate thoughts, feelings, fears and experiences.

For many Haíɫzaqv Elders from Heiltsuk Nation in British Columbia, the language Háiɫzaqvḷa lives within them, connecting them to their ancestors. However, it is at great risk of disappearing. Years of systemic cultural erasure have left many today dubbed as “silent speakers,” able to understand the language but unable to find their voices after generations of suppression.

Rooted in systemic and childhood trauma, Heiltsuk Nation understands this is not a quick fix, but an ongoing commitment to healing its Elders while providing opportunities to connect with younger generations. To help regain the Háiɫzaqvḷa voice, the Silent Speakers Program was created using trauma-informed, culturally grounded learning to provide a safe space for Elders to heal and rediscover their language. As participants rebuild their confidence, they step into meaningful roles as mentors, sharing their stories, teachings and language with younger generations. This intergenerational exchange is essential to the survival of Háiɫzaqvḷa and ensures the language continues to thrive within the Heiltsuk Nation.

This work carries critical urgency following the passing of several fluent Elders over the past year. The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF) is answering the call to support the Silent Speakers Program and advance it to the next level by helping cover staffing, contractors, food and catering, and honorarium expenses. This will ensure Elders, Knowledge Keepers and facilitators have the resources needed to bring speakers and youth together to reclaim the Háiɫzaqvḷa voice in a supportive environment.

Archdiocese of Vancouver