3 Unbeatable Reasons for Learning an Indigenous Language
In today’s interconnected world, language learning has become more important than ever. While many people gravitate toward global languages like English, Spanish, or Mandarin, there’s a growing interest in indigenous languages. These languages, spoken by communities with deep historical and cultural roots, are treasures of human diversity. But why should someone invest time and effort in learning an indigenous language?
I’ll show you three compelling reasons for learning an indigenous language, highlighting how it enriches your life, connects you with diverse cultures, and helps preserve humanity’s linguistic heritage.
1. Building deeper connections with indigenous cultures and enhancing travel experiences
Learning an indigenous language is a unique gateway to connecting with the rich history, culture, and traditions of the communities who speak it. These languages are living links to ancient civilizations, offering profound insights into their worldviews and way of life. Unlike learning a global language for its practical benefits, studying an indigenous language allows you to experience the essence of a culture from the inside out.
For example, Quechua, the language of the Inca Empire, provides not only a linguistic connection to the Andean people but also a deeper understanding of their spiritual and agricultural practices. Similarly, Nahuatl, spoken by the Aztecs and still used by over 1.5 million people in Mexico, carries a rich lexicon rooted in nature and spirituality. Indigenous languages often encode complex relationships with the environment and reflect unique ways of thinking about life and community.
These linguistic and cultural connections are especially meaningful when travelling. Learning an indigenous language transforms travel into a more immersive experience, allowing you to communicate authentically and build genuine relationships with local communities. While Spanish may be widely spoken across Latin America, speaking indigenous languages – even a few words – like Zapotec in Oaxaca or Guarani in Paraguay signals respect for local traditions and often leads to extraordinary opportunities.
Imagine being invited into the home of a local family in a remote village, where they serve you a traditional meal made with ingredients from their own land—perhaps different types of potatoes you’ve never seen before or freshly prepared tamales. As you sit around the table, speaking at least some words of their indigenous language, the conversation flows with warmth and curiosity. They share stories of how the dish is tied to their traditions and probably prepared during festivals, and they eagerly teach you words for the flavors and techniques unique to their community.
This level of connection is only possible when you speak their language, as it shows genuine respect for their culture and opens doors to authentic, heartfelt exchanges. Indigenous languages offer you access to the heart of a culture, fostering mutual respect and trust that transcends the typical tourist experience, turning your journey into something truly transformative.
2. Expanding your cognitive skills and language learning abilities
Language learning is well-known for its cognitive benefits—it enhances memory, problem-solving skills, and even creativity. Learning an indigenous language can provide these benefits while also challenging you to think in new and exciting ways. Many indigenous languages have unique structures and concepts that differ significantly from widely spoken languages.
For example, the Aymara language, spoken in Bolivia, Peru, and Chile, has a fascinating approach to time. Unlike most languages, which imagine the future as being “in front” and the past as “behind,” Aymara speakers view the past as in front of them (because they’ve seen it) and the future as behind them (because it’s unknown). These differences can expand your mental horizons and make you more adaptable as a language learner.
Of course, learning an indigenous language comes with its own unique challenges. Unlike more commonly spoken languages, it can be harder to find learning materials such as textbooks, apps, or comprehensive grammar guides. Connecting with native speakers may require more effort, as indigenous communities are often geographically isolated or underserved by online resources. Additionally, finding courses or tutors may feel daunting at first due to their limited availability.
But don’t let these challenges discourage you! I’m here to help bridge that gap, offering support to make learning an indigenous language more accessible and rewarding. Whether it’s by connecting with native speakers, immersing yourself in the culture, or adopting effective study techniques, there are plenty of ways to overcome these obstacles.
Taking on these challenges makes the journey even more meaningful, as you’re not only learning a language but also becoming part of a global effort to preserve and celebrate linguistic diversity. It’s a unique and fulfilling experience that enriches your mind, connects you with cultures, and empowers you to think in entirely new ways.
Once you’ve learned an indigenous language, picking up other languages may feel easier, as you’ve already trained your brain to think beyond the conventions of your native tongue. Moreover, the experience of learning a language with a smaller community of speakers is often more personal and interactive, leading to greater immersion and satisfaction.
3. Promoting linguistic diversity and protecting endangered languages
Linguistic diversity is a cornerstone of human identity and creativity. However, indigenous languages are vanishing at an alarming rate. Of the approximately 7,000 languages spoken worldwide, UNESCO estimates that nearly 40% are at risk of extinction, with many of these being indigenous languages. When a language disappears, we lose more than just words.
Learning an indigenous language is a powerful act of advocacy. When you learn and use these languages, you contribute to their preservation, ensuring that they remain vibrant for future generations. Indigenous communities often face marginalization, and their languages are sidelined in favor of dominant ones. By valuing and studying these languages, you’re not only raising awareness but also supporting the efforts of communities striving to preserve their cultural heritage.
Every language offers a unique perspective. For example, the Guarani language, spoken in Paraguay and parts of Brazil, Bolivia, and Argentina, has a deep lexicon for describing nature, reflecting a worldview centered on living in harmony with the environment. Losing such languages means losing perspectives that could inspire solutions to modern world‘s problems.
By promoting linguistic diversity through indigenous language learning, you’re helping preserve humanity’s collective wisdom. It’s a meaningful contribution to cultural preservation, and your efforts can inspire others to value these languages as well.
The beauty of learning indigenous languages
Learning an indigenous language is not just a personal journey; it’s a meaningful contribution to cultural preservation and a way to celebrate human diversity. It connects you to the stories, knowledge, and traditions of communities that have endured for centuries. It also strengthens the global movement to protect endangered languages and the rich perspectives they offer.
For travellers, the benefits are especially tangible. Speaking an indigenous language enriches your adventures by fostering authentic connections and granting you access to experiences most tourists never get to enjoy. It transforms travel from a transactional activity into a profound cultural exchange, creating memories that last a lifetime.
Whether you’re passionate about linguistic diversity, eager to explore new ways of thinking, or simply curious about the world’s cultural richness, studying an indigenous language is a step toward a more connected world. And who knows? You might even inspire others to follow in your footsteps, creating a ripple effect that ensures these beautiful languages continue to thrive. I really hope so!
