Hesse’s New Round Table Initiative Aims to Revive and Protect Regional Dialects
The Hessian Ministry for Environment, Climate, Agriculture, and Consumer Protection (HMLU) has launched a new initiative to celebrate and preserve the linguistic heritage of Hesse. The Round Table on Dialects, established by Minister Ingmar Jung, brings together representatives from academia, schools, education, and volunteer organizations to promote dialects in education, research, and community work.
The Round Table, which met for the first time recently, aims to build on existing programs such as the Dialect Award and the planned Dialect Calendar. It will develop concrete measures to integrate academic findings into schools, clubs, and educational programs, enriching research with real-world experiences. The committee, set up by the Hessian Ministry for Agriculture, Environment, Viticulture, Forestry, Hunting, and Homeland Affairs, will meet regularly over the next three years to work closely with associations and institutions, fostering a network dedicated to preserving and promoting Hesse's dialects.
The Round Table sends a strong message in support of linguistic diversity, cultural participation, and the languages of Hesse. It seeks to strengthen and preserve the region's unique dialects, ensuring they remain an integral part of the state's cultural identity.
The establishment of the Round Table on Dialects signals a commitment from the Hessian government to support and nurture the linguistic heritage of the region. The committee's findings and recommendations will inform Hesse’s cultural and educational policies, ensuring that dialects continue to thrive and enrich the state's cultural landscape.