The arrival of Saint George: a tradition with nuances
With the celebration of Sant Jordi, interest in literature and rose is renewed, but also a recurring debate on the health of Catalan. Language proponents often express their concern about the current situation, pointing to aspects such as the lack of representation in cinema, a decrease in its use among young people, and the reduced presence on social networks.
A linguistic emergency that requires reflection
The first point to consider is that the current alarm indicates a failure in the policies of protection of Catalan for the last 40 years. This reality, often ignored, leads us to rethink the strategies we have been using. If a football team is in a descent area, it is clear that something does not work, and the tactics and resources must be reviewed.
Unfortunate comparisons
In addition, it is important to recognize that Catalan cannot be equalized with Spanish in terms of use and influence. While the Spanish is spoken by hundreds of millions of people, Catalan reaches only a few million. This disparity causes any attempt to equate their presence at least unrealistic.
Minoritarianism: An opportunity for identity
Being a minority language does not necessarily imply a condemnation of extinction. In fact, there are examples of cultures that have found their stability in their minority condition. The survival of these cultures, such as chess against football, shows that the value of a language can transcend their number of speakers.
The role of immigration in linguistic dynamics
Another aspect to keep in mind is the influence of demographics on linguistic habits. Reception policies, such as ‘Refugees Welcome’, inevitably affect the use of Catalan. Although it is important to welcome, it is also necessary to think about how these decisions impact the language we want to preserve.
The danger of constant complaint
Finally, it is crucial to avoid the victim’s mentality. Cultures that have resisted the passage of time, like the Jewish, have found ways to maintain their identity and traditions, despite adversity. The relentless complaint against Spanish influence does not help to build a strong and resilient culture.
A new perspective for the future of Catalan
In the context of Sant Jordi, it is vital that reflection on the Catalan language is not limited to the emotion of the moment, but it becomes a constructive debate that seeks effective solutions for its preservation and promotion. Only in this way can we guarantee that Catalan is not only a memory, but a living and active language in future generations.
