Seachdain na Gàidhlig (World Gaelic Week) is set to return for a third year, with organisers encouraging Gaelic speakers and learners to make the most of an exclusive funding opportunity launched today.
Taking place from 19th – 25th February 2024, Seachdain na Gàidhlig, the first official nationwide language week of its kind in Scotland, aims to promote Gaelic for all.
The initiative is home to a Small Grants Fund, supported by Bòrd na Gàidhlig, which encourages and enables people to apply for funding to celebrate Gaelic in their communities. Successful applicants will be able to use the support to put on inclusive events and activities and launch new initiatives in their local communities.
Over 1,000 people took part in more than 100 events for the second annual Seachdain na Gàidhlig this year – over 50 of which were part of this fund – and organisers are hoping 2024 will see even more celebrations take place across Scotland and beyond.
The theme for the 2024 edition of the cultural celebration is Do Chànan. Do Chothrom, which translates to Your Language. Your Opportunity. Participants are encouraged to showcase how the Gaelic language benefits and enriches lives, opening doors for connections, collaboration and success.
Applications for the 2024 funding pot are open now on the Seachdain na Gàidhlig website, and people have until midnight on Sunday 26th November 2024 to apply for funding of up to £500.
Joy Dunlop, Director of Seachdain na Gàidhlig, said: “We’re thrilled to announce that the third annual Seachdain Na Gàidhlig will take place in February 2024, with the theme Your Language. Your Opportunity. It’s so exciting to be able to offer our Small Grants Fund again this year, thanks to the support of Bòrd na Gàidhlig and we would encourage anyone who has an idea for an event for next year to apply for support and make the most of this fantastic opportunity.
“Gaelic is a key part of Scotland’s cultural make up and identity and our aim is to give people the chance to showcase and celebrate what it means to them. The past two year’s events have seen a fantastic response from Gaelic speakers and learners of all levels embracing the chance to celebrate and share the language in all sorts of creative ways.”
Events for Seachdain Na Gàidhlig 2023 took place across Scotland and beyond, both in person and online, from workshops to walking tours and coffee mornings to cèilidhs, with 51 of these receiving support from the Small Grants Fund.
Schools, community groups, libraries, musicians and football teams were among those who joined in the fun to promote and share the Gaelic language and once again the Seachdain na Gàidhlig funding boost will be open to all.
The week-long celebration seeks to replicate the success and national recognition of other minority language initiatives such as Seachtain na Gaeilge in Ireland and Mìos nan Gàidheal in Nova Scotia, giving Scottish Gaelic speakers, learners and supporters the opportunity to celebrate the language at home and internationally.
Ealasaid MacDonald, Ceannard, Bòrd na Gàidhlig, said:“Bòrd na Gàidhlig are delighted to support the Seachdain na Gàidhlig Small Grants Scheme. Last year it was great to see so many different events in so many places across the country, many of which were run with support through this scheme. We’re excited to see what innovative things will be delivered this year.”
Organised by Scottish traditional culture and music organisation Hands Up For Trad, Seachdain na Gàidhlig is also looking to expand its team. Applications are now open for a freelance Administrative Producer, which will close on Friday 17th November and is available to view at www.seachdainnagaidhlig.scot.
Seachdain Na Gàidhlig 2024 will take place from 19th – 25th February 2024. For more information or to apply for funding, please visit www.seachdainnagaidhlig.scot.