COVID-19: Language matters in the Pacific

Welcome!

This project aims to share information about COVID-19 in as many languages of the Pacific as possible. On these pages, you will find:

Key information in our languages (more languages are being added all the time ... please join us!)

Resources to support language communities wanting to:

• Contribute to the project

• Translate materials into their own languages

• Create new resources using free templates and images

• Check whether a resource is suitable

• Share material with others responsibly and safely

Why language matters

In challenging times, it is access to information that keeps our communities safe. The COVID-19: Language matters in the Pacific project is a collaboration between linguists and language communities from across the Pacific to help provide this access to information.

We are guided by the principles that:

1. We all need access to information: If we fail to reach certain people, we leave them behind.

2. We need to remove language barriers: The Pacific is the most multilingual region of the world, so using English only will exclude many people.

3. We need to be inclusive: Communities living with disabilities may be prevented from hearing or seeing information that others take for granted.

4. We need to think critically whenever we read or view or listen: Access to incorrect information can be more dangerous than not having information at all.

5. We need to share information with others responsibly: If we do not check our facts before we share, we may confuse people or put their lives at risk.