Creating neutral, professional and inclusive spaces for Rotuman language teaching in NZ sign now

We, the undersigned, are Rotumans, spouses, friends and colleagues of Rotumans and students of the Rotuman language and culture based in Aotearoa New Zealand

 

We acknowledge the fact that the Rotuman language has been classed as Vulnerable by the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization and that there are approximately only 3000 speakers globally

 

We also acknowledge the fact that Rotumans represent a very small minority in New Zealand with fewer than 1000 Rotumans across the country

 

We strongly believe that, as a minority group with a vulnerable language, there is an urgent need to preserve the Rotuman language and culture for future generations 

 

We believe that such preservation should encompass modes and formats relevant to the ever changing world in which we live

 

We also strongly believe in the need for the creation of neutral, professional and inclusive space(s) where the Rotuman language and culture can be preserved, taught and learnt without undue hindrance

 

We therefore appeal to our Pacific leaders and Pacific language stakeholders for assistance in creating such spaces and realizing our goal of preserving the Rotuman language and culture for future generations in Aotearoa New Zealand