LL-L "Language politics" 2007.03.16 (02) [E]

[Lowlands-L List]

L O W L A N D S - L - 16 March 2007 - Volume 02

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From: R. F. Hahn <sassisch at yahoo.com>
Subject: Language politics

Dear Lowlanders,

Yesterday I was told by Geraldine (Nina) Anselma* that last week, on March
7, Papiamento was recognized as an official language of Curaçao, Netherlands
Antilles.  As such it has joined Dutch and English, both of which have been
official languages for quite some time.

This is great news in that it adds a measure of prestige and protection to
Papiamentu, which is much beloved by many in the area.  Let us hope that
Bonaire will soon follow the lead of Aruba and Curaçao.

Here is my introduction to Papiamentu:
http://lowlands-l.net/anniversary/papiamentu-info.php

While the base of Papiamentu is Romance, it contains a lot of Dutch- and
English-derived words (besides West African and Arawak words).  It is a very
interesting creole language to study.

* Nina is the creator of the Papiamentu translation of the wren story. (
http://lowlands-l.net/anniversary/papiamentu.php) Hopefully we'll be adding
a sound file to it soon.  Also, as soon as this can be accomplished, there
will be a presentation of Nina as a featured guest contributor at our
anniversary site.

Felisitashonan na e hende di *Kòrsou!*

Regards,
Reinhard/Ron
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