Reclaiming Roots: The Case for Reviving 'Codiac' and Embracing Bilingual Harmony

--- title: "Reclaiming Roots: The Case for Reviving 'Codiac' and Embracing Bilingual Harmony" date: December 1, 2023 author: Acadie Blog Contributor - Marie Seshat Landry -- ## Revisiting Our Past, Shaping Our Future: The Codiac Proposition In the heart of New Brunswick lies a city, currently known as Moncton, but its historical roots whisper a different name - Codiac. As a community deeply intertwined with the tapestry of Canadian history and Acadian culture, we are at a crossroads. It's time to consider a bold, yet profoundly symbolic move: renaming Moncton to its original name, Codiac. This isn't merely a change of signs but a powerful step in honoring our past and embracing a future that respects diversity and linguistic unity. ### Why Codiac? Unearthing Our History Codiac, a name deeply rooted in the Mi'kmaq language, encapsulates more than geographical identity; it signifies respect for the land and its original inhabitants. By reviving the name Codiac, we pay homage to the Indigenous heritage and acknowledge a past often overshadowed by colonial narratives. This act of historical justice also serves as a bridge, linking our diverse communities in a shared acknowledgment of our land's deep and varied history. ### Beyond a Name: Tackling the Language Divide The greater Moncton area, or should we say, the Codiac region, has long been a microcosm of Canada's linguistic duality. Yet, this duality has not always translated into harmony. It's time to address the language tensions head-on, transforming them from a source of division to a pillar of our collective strength. #### Implementing Language-Based Hate Crime Policies To foster a culture of respect and understanding, there must be zero tolerance for language-based hate crimes and bullying. Strong, enforceable policies need to be put in place, ensuring that every member of our community feels safe and respected, regardless of their linguistic background. #### Incentivizing Bilingualism Learning both official languages should not be seen as a burden but as an opportunity and a privilege. We propose introducing incentives for bilingual education and cultural exchange programs. These initiatives can range from tax breaks for businesses that encourage bilingualism to grants for community projects that promote linguistic diversity. ### Conclusion: A Step Towards Unity Renaming Moncton to Codiac is more than a nod to our history; it's a bold statement about who we are and who we aspire to be as a community. By recognizing our Indigenous roots and addressing the linguistic divide with concrete policies, we can set an example of inclusivity and harmony. Let's embrace this opportunity to turn a new page in our history, one that honors our past, acknowledges our present challenges, and looks forward to a future where diversity is our strength. Merci et à bientôt, Acadie Blog Contributor 🌿🌊🌳 —acadieblog.blogspot.com —

Marie Seshat Landry

www.marielandryceo.com