Guam's Fight to Save the CHamoru Language: A Cultural Legacy at Risk

On a day marked by both celebration and solemn reflection, Laura Torres Souder, chairwoman of the local commission on CHamoru language, stood at the podium with a message that resonated through the heart of Guam. The essence of her speech was clear and urgent: the CHamoru language, an integral part of the island's cultural heritage, is at risk of vanishing. With the governor of Guam, Lou Leon Guerrero, by her side, Souder's words underscored a pivotal moment in the island's history—the signing of a proclamation aimed at safeguarding the language of Guam's first people. This event, occurring on February 17, 2024, was not just a ceremonial acknowledgment but a call to action for every inhabitant of the island.

Preservation as a Priority

In her impassioned address, Souder painted a vivid picture of a future where the CHamoru language might no longer be heard in the streets, homes, or schools of Guam. "We stand at a crossroads," she declared, emphasizing the critical need to produce young speakers of CHamoru. It was a plea not just for the preservation of a language but of a culture, a way of life that has thrived on this Pacific island for centuries. Governor Guerrero, reflecting on the significance of the moment, recognized the importance of both individual and collective efforts in this endeavor. The proclamation signed by the governor is more than a document; it is a testament to the island's commitment to its indigenous roots and a future where the CHamoru language continues to flourish.

The Cultural Fabric at Risk

The potential extinction of the CHamoru language is not merely a loss of words but a fading of the rich tapestry of cultural wisdom that the language carries. Souder, in her role as a guardian of CHamoru heritage, highlighted the intricate connection between language and culture. "Language is the soul of a people," she stated, driving home the point that to lose one's language is to lose a significant part of one's identity. This sentiment was echoed by community members and leaders alike, who view the language as a vessel of ancestral knowledge, traditions, and values that define the CHamoru people.

Looking Ahead: A Collective Effort

The pathway to preserving the CHamoru language is seen as a collective journey that requires the active participation of every member of the community. Education systems, local government initiatives, and family traditions all play a crucial role in this process. The proclamation serves as a rallying cry, urging the people of Guam to embrace their linguistic heritage and to take tangible steps towards its preservation. The challenge is significant, but the resolve of the island's inhabitants is unwavering. As Governor Guerrero rightly pointed out, the preservation of the CHamoru language is a shared responsibility—one that transcends generations and speaks to the very essence of what it means to be from Guam.

In the end, the event of February 17, 2024, may be remembered as a pivotal moment in the history of Guam—a day when leaders, community members, and advocates came together to acknowledge the critical state of the CHamoru language and to commit to its preservation. The efforts to save the language from extinction are not just about honoring the past but about securing a future where the CHamoru culture continues to thrive. It is a reminder that languages are living, breathing entities that bind communities, shape identities, and carry the collective wisdom of generations. The proclamation signed by Governor Lou Leon Guerrero is a step towards ensuring that the CHamoru language, and the cultural heritage it embodies, will be passed down to future generations, enriching the lives of those yet to come.