From August 11 to 14, 2025, Association Tinhinan took part in WAVES 2025, the first World Indigenous Languages Summit held in Canada. Hosted at the Rogers Centre in Ottawa, on the unceded traditional territory of the Algonquin Nation, this international gathering was organized by the Office of the Commissioner of Indigenous Languages. Held as part of the International Decade of Indigenous Languages, the Summit aimed to support the reclamation, revitalization, preservation, and transmission of Indigenous languages.

Over four days, Elders, knowledge keepers, youth, researchers, artists, and language advocates from First Nations, Métis, Inuit, and other Indigenous peoples around the world shared their experiences and initiatives. The discussions offered space for collective reflection on concrete solutions to strengthen the vitality of Indigenous languages.

During the panel “A World of Ideas: Reclaiming, Revitalizing, and Strengthening Languages,” Association Tinhinan carried the voice of Indigenous peoples of the Sahel and highlighted the issues surrounding language transmission and cultural justice. The association underscored the deep connections between languages, territories, knowledge, cultural identity, and community well-being.

This participation reflects our association’s commitment to the transmission and recognition of Indigenous languages. For Association Tinhinan, preserving a language also means preserving a collective memory, strengthening the bonds between generations, and ensuring the continuity of cultures and knowledge.