Scotland’s New Makar Aims to Preserve Gaelic Language
Scotland has recently appointed a new Makar, Dr. Peter Mackay, who is determined to showcase Gaelic as a “living language of national importance” amid concerns that it could disappear from Hebridean communities within the next few decades. This historic appointment of the first Makar primarily writing in Gaelic marks a significant moment in Scottish literature and cultural preservation.
Challenges Faced by Gaelic Language
Dr. Mackay, who hails from the Isle of Lewis, expressed his ambition to use his position to normalize Gaelic and prevent its decline as a “lived community language.” He highlighted the complex situation facing the language, with an increase in Gaelic speakers across Scotland, but a worrying decline in traditionally Gaelic-speaking communities like the Western Isles.
According to Dr. Mackay, one of the contributing factors to Gaelic’s disappearance in Hebridean communities is the cultural shift brought about by the pandemic, where an influx of people from various parts of Scotland has led to changes in language dynamics.
Promoting Multilingualism and Cultural Exchange
As the Makar, Dr. Mackay aims to ensure that Gaelic does not exist in isolation but interacts with other languages to form part of the national conversation. With the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow in 2026, he sees an opportunity to celebrate linguistic diversity and explore how different languages can interact and complement each other.
He emphasized the importance of engaging in meaningful conversations about critical issues like climate change and the refugee crisis, utilizing multi-voiced poems and facilitating interactions between individuals writing in different languages. Dr. Mackay’s vision includes creating bridges between cultures, fostering understanding, and celebrating the linguistic diversity that enriches modern Scotland.
Looking Towards the Future
In his new role, Dr. Mackay intends to collaborate with various groups, schools, and organizations to promote multilingualism and cultural exchange. By encouraging dialogue and collaboration between individuals writing in different languages, he hopes to create a vibrant cultural tapestry that reflects the diverse fabric of modern Scotland.
As Dr. Mackay embarks on his journey as Scotland’s Makar, his commitment to preserving Gaelic, promoting multilingualism, and fostering cultural connections shines through. Through his efforts, he seeks to ensure that Gaelic remains a vital and integral part of Scotland’s cultural heritage for generations to come.