February 3, 2026
By Selma Ferdjioui
We all speak a language, or two, or even three, in order to communicate with others. However, although many of us are multilingual, not all of us can speak our family’s native language.
According to Google, a “native language” is the first language a person learns from birth. However, if you are an immigrant or the child of immigrants, this language might not be the one spoken by most members of your family. For example, if you are of Senegalese origin but born in Canada, it is very likely that you will learn French or English before learning Wolof.
As children, we usually learn how to speak at home. If our parents do not teach us the language of our ancestors from birth, it is unlikely that we will learn it outside of the home. That being said, the responsibility does not fall entirely on parents and relatives.
IMPACT OF COLONIALISM
Many people from formerly colonized countries do not even speak their country’s native language because of the lasting impact of colonialism. A clear example of this can be seen in Latin America. Most people in Latin American countries, except Brazil, are hispanophones, meaning that their primary language is Spanish. This includes many Indigenous Latin Americans who, for the most part, do not speak the languages of their ancestors.
IMMIGRATION
Another reason some of us do not speak our ancestors’ language is that our parents did not consider it important to teach a language that is not spoken in the country where we live. I know many second- or third-generation immigrants whose parents never taught them their country of origin’s native language. This often happens because parents want their children to assimilate and not be perceived as “different” from their peers.
Although usually well intentioned, what parents may not realize is that this choice can unintentionally deprive their children of an important part of their culture and identity. Over time, this can lead to a deep sense of disconnection from their roots.
RECONNECTING WITH OUR ROOTS
That said, not speaking our ancestors’ language does not mean we cannot reconnect with our roots. Learning or relearning a mother tongue is always possible. You can take classes, ask a family member to teach you, use language apps, or watch movies in the language you want to learn. Even if you never speak it perfectly, making the effort alone is a powerful step. It shows a willingness to reconnect with your culture and keep it alive.
By choosing to learn your mother tongue, you are building a bridge between past, present, and future generations. It also allows space for an aspect of your identity that may have remained unexplored.
In conclusion, speaking your family’s mother tongue is a beautiful addition, but it is not a requirement for belonging. You are not less Irish, less Algerian, or less Chinese because you do not speak your country’s native language. Identity is not limited to vocabulary. It is shaped by history, culture, memories, and lived experiences. Most importantly, it is yours to redefine and reclaim on your own terms.
Selma Ferdjioui
Writer
Expected to receive her journalism degree (BA) in December of 2024, Selma has developed a skill in writing poignant stories on a diverse range of topics. She later plans to continue her education by getting a master's degree.
Her love for writing and telling stories began when she was young. Selma would write essays discussing her opinions on different topics and would then share it with her friends and family. This made her develop a real passion for writing. As a journalist, Selma is mainly interested in writing about the multiple conflicts happening around the world, diversity and inclusion, immigration, mental health, women's rights, the development of the African continent and its history, as well as lighter topics, such as reviewing films and TV shows.
For her, Sayaspora is a way to share with the world stories about African women and she hopes that her work could make people see her beloved continent in a different light.
