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In the Languages of These Lands

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Thousands of places in Canada have names rooted in Indigenous languages. Indigenous place names are rich in meaning: they impart traditional knowledge of the land, its geography and its natural resources. They also communicate Indigenous worldviews, stories and teachings.

Map of Canada displaying the locations of Indigenous Place Names in this exhibit

The United Nations declared 2022–2032 the International Decade of Indigenous Languages to raise awareness of their diversity and importance and to support their revitalization. Indigenous languages have endured for thousands of years, but many are now at critical risk of disappearing. Many communities are working to revitalize their languages.

2022-2032 International Decade of Indigenous Languages - Logo

Geographical Names Board of Canada (125 years)/Commission de toponymie du Canada  (125 ans) 1897-2022 - Logo

Exhibition gallery

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Akami-Uapishkᵁ-KakKasuak-Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve of Canada

Settlement at Tracadie - Archival image

Aerial photo of the Pingualuit Crator, Quebec

A rock formation of Cheminis, Quebec

Wendake, Sky Woman painting

Arial photo of a mountain range in Auyuittuq National Park

Partridge on a branch in Akwesasne

Ottawa River near Ottawa

Aerial photo of the Pimachiowin aki

Kikiskitotawânawak iskwêwak Lakes

Aerial photo of the Île-à-la-Crosse community

CPR Post Card of Sintaluta

Rock formations in a field in Okotoks

Aerial photo of the frozen Dehcho (Mackenzie River), Northwest Territories

Aerial photo of Dezadeash Lake and Titl'àt Mǟn

Aerial photo of a mountain range - Tŝ'ilʔoŝ

Lava beds of Anhluut'ukwsim Laxmihl Angwinga'asanskwhl Nisga'a

Cliff off the coast of Taaw Tldáaw

Inter-generational field teaching taking place in Uutigaq

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