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nsyilxcən, an Interior Salish language, is the traditional language of Westbank First Nation and the syilx peoples of the Okanagan valley. The eight syilx communities that share this language are the Okanagan Indian Band, Westbank First Nation, Penticton Indian Band, Osoyoos Indian Band, Lower Similkameen Indian Band, Upper Similkameen Indian Band, Upper Nicola Indian Band, and Colville Confederated Tribes.
According to the 2014 FPCC Report on the Status of B.C. First Nations Languages, only 3.7% of the Okanagan Nation population (5,181) are fluent nsyilxcən speakers.
Image credit: 2014 FPCC Report on the Status of B.C. First Nations Languages
Revitalization
Throughout the Okanagan, steps are being taken to teach nsyilxcən to our youth. nsyilxcən is now recognized as an official language and is taught throughout School District #23, as well as at Sensisyusten House of Learning, which is an elementary school in Westbank First Nation. Westbank First Nation sponsors the Syilx Language House Association, which coordinates a four-year nsyilxcən language program. Two WFN Members are currently enrolled in the program.
Language Programs
The syilx Language House Association offers immersion classes, teacher training, and publishes language materials that promote the use, preservation, and revitalization of nsyilxcən. The first immersion program cohort was initiated in 2015 with 17 students.
SYILX LANGUAGE HOUSE
Learn nsyilxcən words and phrases through the First Voices website, developed by the First Peoples Cultural Council. A First Voices nsyilxcən language app is also available for download through iTunes.
Language Revitalization Project