A language only lives if you speak it | Ryan DeCaire | TEDxToronto

Do you have a parent or grandparent that speaks a language that you do not? What does it feel like to be connected to a country, civilization, or culture but not be able to speak or hear its stories in the native language? Ryan DeCaire is a Kanien'kéha (Mohawk) speaker who believes that to repair, revitalize, and reconnect with a language, you, and other people like you, must make the conscious choice to speak. Language revitalization is a responsibility that lies with all of us and it is a choice that leads to a firm sense of identity, a stronger community, and a brighter future. Ryan is working to revitalize Kanien’kéha (Mohawk language) through instructing students at an adult immersion school, and as an Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx