The Secretary General of Language, Valentín García, has underscored the significance of music and sport as avenues for socialising in Galician and elevating the language's status, particularly among the youth. His remarks were made during the XXVIII Encounters for Linguistic Normalisation, organised by the Consello da Cultura Galega in collaboration with the Xunta de Galicia, which this year carries the theme 'Music, pride and identity.'
García, representing the Ministry of Culture, Language and Youth, highlighted that the youth is a primary focus for the Galician government in promoting the language across various sectors. He stressed the importance of collaborating with both emerging and established artists who create music in Galician, as well as launching initiatives related to the digital realm and sports.
Regarding sports activities, García noted that due to their ability to engage the public, particularly children and young people, the Xunta is working on establishing a funding line aimed at increasing the presence of Galician within sports organisations. This initiative targets clubs, sports sections of other entities, federations, and recognised sports groups that demonstrate a commitment to promoting the language publicly, involving their participants, families, professionals, and sports figures.
Additionally, García pointed out that these disciplines serve as tools for non-native Galicians to connect with the language and culture while integrating socially into the community. To further this aim, the Xunta plans to launch 150 new introductory courses on Galician language and culture next year, intending to reach 2,000 foreign residents, following the 1,500 individuals who participated in the previous edition and are potential new Galician speakers.
These initiatives are part of the 700 measures outlined in the new Plan for the Normalisation of the Galician Language, which was recently approved by the Galician Parliament with the support of a majority of parliamentary groups. The Xunta of Galicia has allocated a budget of €14.5 million for these efforts.
