Miriwoong-Ainu Language and Culture Exchange Project

Miriwoong-Ainu Language and Culture Exchange Project, is a first of its kind international partnership between Australia and Japan that will bring together representatives of the Miriwoong and Ainu language communities.

Led by Mirima Dawang Woorlab-gerring Language and Culture Centre (MDWg) in Kununurra, the objective is to learn from each other, share strategies and explore ways to support each other in our goal to bring our ancient languages back to life in a modern world. This will help future generations retain their linguistic and cultural identity, enabling the uplifting of social and community wellbeing.

This ground-breaking partnership is the first time Indigenous communities from the two countries have collaborated to exchange ideas about language revitalisation. Supported by the Australian Government through the Australia-Japan Foundation of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the project also aligns perfectly with the International Decade of Indigenous Languages (2022-2032).

Research indicates that individuals who can speak their mother tongue have significantly better mental and physical health, increased self-esteem, are more likely to attend and finish school, gain employment and are even less likely to abuse alcohol or illicit substances.

Miriwoong elder and MDWg Director David Newry said, “It’s good to see how different cultures meet and share the challenges and solutions we have in common in bringing back our traditional languages.

Language is our identity: It shows us who we are and will teach young people to show respect towards their Elders and their country in everyday life.”

Learn more at our website: https://mirima.org.au/news-events/events/miriwoong-ainu-exchange/