Should Munanga learn Kriol?: Exploring attitudes to non-Indigenous acquisition of Kriol language in Ngukurr

Should Munanga learn Kriol?: Exploring attitudes to non-Indigenous acquisition of Kriol language in Ngukurr Journal Article

Australian Review of Applied Linguistics

  • Author(s): Hendy, Caroline, Bow, Catherine
  • Published: 2021

Abstract: Kriol, an English-lexifier contact language, has approximately 20,000 speakers across northern Australia. It is the primary language of the remote Aboriginal community of Ngukurr. Kriol is a contact language, incorporating features of English and traditional Indigenous languages. The language has been perceived both positively and negatively, although recent literature suggests a shift towards more favorable views. This paper investigates how community members in Ngukurr responded to the question of non-Indigenous residents (known locally as 'Munanga') learning Kriol. Interviews with local Indigenous residents showed positive attitudes to Kriol, with respondents providing a number of perceived benefits for outsiders learning the language. Our interviews provide empirical evidence for pride in the language, affirming a shift to more positive attitudes.

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Suggested Citation
Hendy, Caroline, Bow, Catherine, 2021, Should Munanga learn Kriol?: Exploring attitudes to non-Indigenous acquisition of Kriol language in Ngukurr, Journal Article, viewed 08 February 2025, https://www.nintione.com.au/?p=26696.

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