Yinka Dene Language Institute facts for kids
The Yinka Dene Language Institute (YDLI) is an organization in Stoney Creek, British Columbia. Its main goal is to study and keep alive the language and culture of the Dakelh people and other First Nations groups in northern British Columbia.
How the YDLI Started
The YDLI began in 1988. It was created by several groups working together. These included the Carrier Sekani Tribal Council, the College of New Caledonia, School District 55 Burns Lake, School District 56 Nechako, and School District 28 Quesnel.
A very important person in starting the YDLI was the late Mary John, Sr.. She was an honorary leader until she passed away in 2004. Grand Chief Edward John also played a big part in creating the YDLI and was its first president.
Later, in 1995, the University of Northern British Columbia joined the institute. In 2000, School District 91 Nechako Lakes (which was formed when Districts 55 and 56 combined) left the Institute.
How YDLI is Run
The YDLI is guided by a group of people called a board of trustees. The Carrier Sekani Tribal Council chooses six members for this board. The Elders' Council chooses three members. Other groups that are part of YDLI choose two members each.
Today, the groups that help run YDLI are the Carrier Sekani Tribal Council, the College of New Caledonia, School District 28, and the University of Northern British Columbia.
What YDLI Does
The YDLI does many important things to help preserve languages and cultures.
- They do research to learn more about the languages.
- They keep old records and materials safe (this is called archiving).
- They train teachers to teach First Nations languages.
- They create books and other materials for learning and reference.
