Bayala | Working Together to Bring Back Dharug Dhalang
Bayala is all about reviving Dharug Dhalang, the beautiful language of the Dharug people. This is a journey we can't take alone – it requires collaboration and respect from everyone involved.
Respectful Efforts for a Living Language
Reviving Dharug Dhalang is a continuous process. It takes dedication from both the Dharug Owners/Custodians and our allies (ngalaya). This means listening to and learning from the Dharug people, respecting cultural protocols, and understanding boundaries around speaking, teaching, and learning the language.
Understanding Your Role
There are different levels of knowledge when it comes to Dharug Dhalang. We appreciate everyone's unique journey.
Family Language
Did you grow up hearing Dharug words and phrases at home? Those are treasures! Please share them with us. The lessons we provide are building blocks, but your family language is a vital part of the bigger picture.
Learning Together
The words and phrases in our lessons come from research, archives, and other Dharug language learners/speakers. If you see something different from what you know, please let us know! We're always learning and growing together.
Translation | More Than Just Words
Translating between languages can be tricky. It's not just about finding matching words – it's about capturing the true meaning and cultural context. Sometimes, there might not be a perfect translation, but we can get creative and find ways to express the idea clearly.
Ngalaya (Allies) | Supporting the Revival
As an ally, you play a crucial role in bringing Dharug Dhalang back to life. Here's how you can help:
Support and Collaborate | Work alongside the Dharug Custodians to revive, share, and protect the language.
Speaking Up | You might want to use Dharug Dhalang to show respect, but it's important to know when it's appropriate. Generally, speak Dharug only in formal public settings when invited by a Dharug custodian or in designated learning spaces like language camps and school programs.
Using What You Learn | Simple greetings and farewells learned in lessons are okay to use outside the program, as long as the situation feels right. Read the room check in with
Respectful Engagement
By understanding your role as an ally, you can build strong relationships with the Dharug people and contribute meaningfully to the revival of Dharug Dhalang.
Here are some specific examples of how to be a respectful ally: