Minority languages in networks of overlapping, hierarchical communities in Colombia

The fates of endangered languages are closely linked to conceptions of what value they provide to their communities. We examine how minority (particularly indigenous) communities in Colombia have understood themselves over time, as well as how the state as viewed them, and how definitions of communities and their relationships have historically been framed within hierarchical networks framed in terms of power and hegemony. More recently, national legislation has made considerable strides in recognizing and supporting Colombia’s fundamentally multicultural character, opening the way to increased recognition and autonomy for minority language communities, especially in the areas of education. However, there has been a disappointing lack of accompanying action or real change; the attitudes on all sides that inform actions often remain mired in the past. In a rapidly globalizing world, greater communication and collaboration between all actors are necessary if endangered languages are to be strengthened. We make particular recommendations aimed to generate a more collaborative relationship between minority and mainstream communities, in the understanding that the whole of humanity is enriched (or impoverished) by the survival (or loss) of its languages and cultures