Young activists are tackling the disappearance of traditional aboriginal languages using a unique learning method
“If our language dies, then our identity as a nation does,” according to Squamish Nation member Dustin Rivers. Dustin recently told the Straight that land, culture, and rights don’t have meaning in the absence of traditional language. The 20-year-old activist, artist, and writer is part of a group behind the Save Your Language Conference, to be held June 5 and 6 in Vancouver.
Participants at the conference will learn the Where Are Your Keys? system, developed by Evan Gardner. The WAYK game system is a comprehensive method for revitalizing endangered languages and skills. (more…)

The Salvation Army’s Nanaimo director of services Rob Anderson recently told the Nanaimo Working Group on Homelessness that the organization faces a funding problem. Unless it can get other community organizations to help fund its meal programs, the Sally Ann may need to close them down altogether. City of Nanaimo social planner 
In 2009, an adolescent health survey revealed that a quarter of gay and lesbian youths in Canada have attempted suicide at least once. And a total of 37% of gay and lesbian youngsters felt like outsiders at their schools. [Source: 
