Preserving Torres Strait Islander languages

January 21, 2019
Two Torres Strait Islander women in studio

Annie Gela has a vision to revive and preserve the languages of the Torres Strait Islands, where languages are passed down from one generation to another by word of mouth.

Through her radio program on 4MUR in Mackay, Annie produced 20-hours of radio programs, launched to coincide with NAIDOC week focused on Our Languages Matter.

In her program, Annie conversed in Ailan Tok, a language spoken by most Torres Strait Islanders which is a mixture of traditional language, English and Pidgin English. Annie discussed grammar, vocabulary, usage and meaning.

In addition to Annie’s radio program, Ailan Tok was recorded, so her language, knowledge and insights can be preserved and shared with future generations.

Learn more about how we amplify the voices of First Nations peoples, preserve language and strengthen independent Australian community media. See more of the stories we have funded.

Image credit 4MUR.