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By Aaron Schulze

Commissioner Ron Ignace

Federal government appoints former Skeetchestn Chief Ron Ignace as commissioner of Indigenous languages

Jun 14, 2021 | 10:32 AM

SKEETCHESTN — The former chief of Skeetchestn Indian Band has been named Canada’s Commissioner of Indigenous Languages.

Ron Ignace, who served as Skeetchestn chief for 32 of the past 38 years, was appointed by Canadian Heritage Minister Steve Guilbeault Monday (June 14) morning.

“We celebrate this day where we breathe new life into all of our Indigenous languages for the future,” Ignace said. “Our languages will no longer stand in the shadow of other languages here in our land. Let us always honour our Indigenous languages.”

Ignace and the three directors of the Office of the Commissioner of Indigenous Languages (OCIL) were selected by the federal government for their knowledge and understanding of Indigenous communities, cultures and languages. Including an understanding of language vitality and endangerment, and for their ability to represent the interests of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.

The federal government ensured the selection committee included First Nations, Inuit and Métis Nation representatives who assessed and identified highly qualified individuals for the minister’s consideration for appointment.

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OCIL will operate independently from the federal government and support Indigenous peoples in their self-determining efforts to reclaim, revitalize, maintain and strengthen Indigenous languages, along with promoting public awareness of Indigenous languages, undertaking research on the provision of funding, and on the use of Indigenous languages in Canada.

OCIL will provide culturally appropriate dispute resolution services and review complaints.