Empowering Indigenous voices on International Mother Language Day 2026

For Indigenous Peoples, the ability to speak, learn and transmit their mother tongue is inseparable from the exercise of their rights, including access to education, participation in public life and intergenerational knowledge transmission. International Mother Language Day 2026 places a particular focus on youth, highlighting their vital role as language learners, innovators and future knowledge holders. It calls for strengthened investment in youth-led revitalization initiatives, inclusive multilingual education and the digital presence of Indigenous languages.

Activist, professor and writer Kawoq Baldomero Cuma Chávez reminds us that speaking our mother tongue keeps cultures vibrant, strengthens communities and carries knowledge across generations. At the Language Technology for All Conference 2025 , he delivered a powerful presentation on the digital preservation of Mayan languages-making history with the first presentation conducted entirely in Kaqchikel. One year later, he reflects on that landmark moment and its meaning for Indigenous language revitalization.