Linguists Collective Conference & International Mother Language Day IMLD Celebration
Linguists Collective Conference & Celebration
of International Mother Language Day
Wednesday, 21 February 2024
Developing a thriving community language – the work of the Cornish Language Office
Jowdy Davey will intricately explore the operations of the Cornish Language Office at Cornwall Council. With meticulous detail, she will unpack its multifaceted responsibilities, including the curation of the Cornish dictionary and corpus, pivotal civic engagements, educational initiatives, media presence, and community outreach efforts. Davey will delve into the significance of the Cornish dictionary and corpus as repositories of linguistic heritage, reflecting the essence of Cornish identity. She will emphasise the office’s civic role, serving as a symbol of cultural pride and historical resilience within Cornwall’s diverse landscape.
Furthermore, Davey will highlight the crucial role of the Cornish language in education and media, advocating for its integration into mainstream discourse and educational curricula. Through insightful anecdotes and practical examples, she will underscore the transformative potential of language revitalisation efforts in fostering a sense of belonging and cultural continuity. Central to her discourse will be the emphasis on community engagement, encouraging grassroots initiatives and collaborative endeavours to sustain Cornish language vitality. Through her passionate advocacy, Jowdy will inspire individuals to embrace Cornish heritage as an integral component of Cornwall’s rich cultural fabric, promoting inclusivity and appreciation for linguistic diversity in contemporary society.
About Davey
Jowdy’s extensive career spans over two decades, focusing on strategic development within the cultural sector. A passionate advocate for Cornish language and culture, she is recognised as a fluent Cornish speaker and holds the esteemed title of Bard of Gorsedh Kernow. In January 2023, Jowdy embarked on a pivotal role as the Cornish Language Lead at Cornwall Council, where her expertise and dedication continue to shape and preserve the linguistic heritage of the region while fostering its cultural richness.