New Broome children’s book helping preserve Djukun language

A new book, 50 Words in Djukun: A Language Of The West Kimberley, is helping to preserve the language for generations to come.

It was launched on December 23 and documents 50 fundamental words in the Djukun language, marking a vital step in sharing and keeping Djukun cultural heritage alive.

Author Jaala Ozies said the inspiration for the book came from the 50 Words Online Platform, developed by the Research Unit for Indigenous Language at the University of Melbourne.

“Language revitalisation has the power to profoundly impact our community by strengthening our connection to country and ensuring our Djukun culture remains strong for generations to come,” she said.

Ozies envisioned the book as a valuable learning tool for younger Djukun generations wherever they are located so they could embrace their language and cultural identity with pride.

The book has been endorsed by Djukun elders and reflects how far the community has come since committing to the self-funded Djukun 50 Words Language Revitalisation Project in 2023.

“This Djukun language book is not only a step towards reclaiming our language and cultural heritage knowledge but also a necessary action to ensure that the Djukun identity is not erased from Broome but rather continues to thrive for generations to come,” Djukun elder Fabian Nasir said.

“As a Djukun elder, it is my privilege to celebrate Jaala Ozies, my niece, on the release of her book 50 Words In Djukun. Her tireless efforts in preserving the Djukun language have enabled the younger generation to embrace their cultural identity with pride,” Djukun elder Mary Ozies said

Explore the Djukun words and other Aboriginal language groups at the 50 Words Project website.