More than 65 delegates from over 20 Aboriginal language groups gathered in Darwin for the Top End Languages Forum - a powerful event focused on shaping a future where First Nations languages are not only preserved, but actively spoken, heard, and celebrated.
Held from June 3 to 5, the forum was funded by AIATSIS, coordinated by Charles Darwin University, and co-facilitated by Rarrtjiwuy Melanie Herdman, Pirrwayingi Puruntatameri, Jenny Manmurulu and Ian Mongunu Gumbula.
For Tiwi Elder Uncle Pirrwayingi Puruntatameri, speaking his mother tongue is central to his sense of identity and belonging.
“You can imagine how powerful that is,” he said.
“It just brings inspiration in many respects.”
Across the forum’s sessions, stories flowed between generations - Elders and young ones sharing how they are working to keep language alive on Country.
Discussions centred on practical solutions like community-based language programs, bilingual education, and the importance of walking in two worlds.
“To come together and support each other and to hear some of the elders and the younger people sharing their stories of the work that they do is inspiring,” said co-facilitator and Yolŋu woman Rarrtjiwuy Herdman.
Keynote and closing speeches were delivered by Yolŋu leader and MLA Yiŋiya Mark Guyula, who emphasised that language is not just a tool for communication, but a vehicle for sovereignty, wellbeing and cultural law.
The urgency of now
Of the estimated 250 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages spoken before colonisation, fewer than 20 remain as first languages today, most of them in the Northern Territory.
For many delegates, this forum was about reclaiming space, protecting identity, and creating pathways for the next generation to learn their traditional language.
“It is important because we don't want to lose the language,” said Mawng Elder Aunty Jenny Manmurulu.
“Some places, they are losing their language.”
“That is a space that needs to be protected for us,” added Aunty Jenny.
“Learning and engaging with our languages, inspiring thoughts, paving a way forward.”
Looking Ahead
The forum’s collective vision includes stronger support for bilingual education, more resources for grassroots language initiatives, and policy shifts to empower First Nations-led solutions.
Despite the challenges, the mood at the forum was one of strength and determination.
From Arnhem Land to the Tiwi Islands, communities are standing strong in their languages - speaking, singing, and teaching them with pride.
