English influence on the pronunciation of re-awakened Aboriginal languages

Abstract

This chapter explores the influence of literacy and teaching by first language speakers of English, on the pronunciation of Aboriginal languages in the context of language re-awakening in NSW. Wherever languages are learned in the absence of a generation of first language speakers, we find that the learners' first language will have a major impact - the linguistic resources that you have to build on play a strong role in shaping the new language that you acquire. This paper canvasses some pronunciation changes currently taking place in NSW in the context of revitalised learning. It raises the need for open discussion about the authenticity of re-created languages, and argues that for re-created languages phonemic orthographies might not be the best choice. While this paper focuses on NSW, its arguments may be relevant to other parts of the country where re-creation-type programs are underway.