Language Preservation and Revival Movements in Endangered Communities.

Abstract

Language is more than a medium of communication; it embodies culture, history, and identity, yet thousands of languages worldwide face extinction due to globalization, urbanization, and the dominance of major languages. The loss of a language means the disappearance of unique worldviews and indigenous knowledge systems, making preservation and revival efforts vital. Grassroots movements led by elders, educators, and activists focus on documenting oral traditions, developing dictionaries, and integrating endangered languages into schools, while digital tools like mobile apps, archives, and social media broaden accessibility for younger generations. Success stories such as the revival of Hebrew and Māori illustrate how institutional support, policy frameworks, and community participation can bring endangered languages back to life. However, challenges like inadequate funding, declining intergenerational transmission, and societal preference for dominant tongues continue to hinder progress. Preserving linguistic diversity, therefore, is not just about saving words but about safeguarding cultural resilience, creativity, and collective human identity.