First Languages is a Yarn Raise collection in support of the Australian Literacy & Numeracy Foundation (ALNF) and their programs that contribute to the revival, maintenance and revitalisation of Indigenous First Languages.
Inspired by ALNF's slogan, Literacy is Freedom, we asked some of the collaborating artists, in their own words, what literacy means to them. Each article presents its design, language group, and English translation. Bringing these words to the world honours and respects the country's First Languages, and to honour and respect the power of literacy in all languages.
Chosen by Merindah-Gunya (Bayley Mifsud), Manaka-nyoong means 'Hope' in the Peek Whurrong Language.
“I felt that ‘hope’ was the right word to use because for my mob and my Elders it wasn’t legal to speak language up until not that long ago. So for me it's a privilege that we’re able to speak the language as a human right. ‘Hope’ is an optimistic word that shows the progression of how we’ve evolved with Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.”
For each product sold from the First Languages collection, Yarn will donate $2 to ALNF to support their work with First Languages and literacy.
Washing: Cold machine wash with similar colours.
Artwork: Manaka – nyoong ‘Hope’.
Artist: Merindah-Gunya
Material: 100% Cotton.
Product Dimension: L 41.5 x W 37cm.
Colour Available: Black.
Price on application. Minimum order quantity applies.
