Even language and culture: modern challenges

This article analyzes the dynamics of the language situation and ethnocultural processes among the Evens. The relevance of the study is due to the threat of loss of the cultural heritage of the indigenous peoples of the North and the problems of preserving and developing endangered languages. The paper aims to consider the state of the Even language and culture in the context of modern threats and transformations. In this regard, the article addresses the problems of describing the language situation taking into account the number of Evens in various regions of the Russian Federation; aspects of proficiency in the Even language are analyzed. The study of the relationship between ethnocultural processes and landscape-climatic conditions, the dislocation of the ethnic group and industrial activity showed that territorial and ethnosocial factors are decisive for the formation of the language situation. The methods used in the work include: statistics, field data processing and analysis. The study of the relationship between ethnocultural processes and landscape-climatic conditions, the distribution of the ethnic group and economic activity showed that territorial and ethnosocial factors play a decisive role in shaping the language situation. The analysis made it possible to clarify the sociolinguistic parameters of settlements and their relationship to the geographic and socio-historical environment. The study also revealed that the linguistic situation among the Evens varies depending on their location. More optimal conditions for language preservation are observed in villages with a high proportion of the Even population, the presence of ethnic territories, traditional nature management, and a nomadic way of life in tribal communities. The most favorable conditions for maintaining linguistic identity are formed in settlements with a predominantly Even population, the presence of ethnocultural zones, the preservation of traditional forms of nature management, and a nomadic way of life in tribal communities. Instruction in the Even language in children’s educational institutions and the activities of national and cultural organizations play an important role. The article presents conditions that contribute to a more sustainable existence of the Even language: specific measures in the fields of education, economics, science, media, and family transmission. The practical significance of the work is related to the possibility of applying its results in language policy and language construction for the preservation and revitalization of endangered languages.

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