Micro-level language-planning and grass-root initiatives: a case study of Irish language comedy and Inari Sámi rap

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to examine the increased potential for language change from the micro-level, given the new domains in which minority languages are present in the global era. Drawing on the theoretical notion of sociolinguistic scales this paper presents a comparative account of the changing positions of the Irish and Inari Sámi languages. Specifically, this paper is centred on a comparative study of two media personalities, namely an Irish language stand-up comedian, Des Bishop, and an Inari Sámi rap artist, Amoć, whose success as language-planning actors stems from their use of the mediated space to influence micro-level language planning. By identifying both Bishop and Amoć as micro-level language-planning actors, this paper will examine the potential knock on effects of such initiatives for macro-level language-planning agencies, such as the educational domain, thereby pointing to the potential for increased minority language recovery when such languages achieve new values and functions.

Keywords:

• micro-level language planning
• grass-root initiatives
• media
• comedy
• rap
• Irish
• Inari Sámi

Notes

Gaeltacht refers to the officially designated Irish-speaking areas found mainly along the Western seaboard of Ireland.

‘Her’ refers to the then Minster for Education, Mary Hannifin

The interview was conducted with Sari Pietikäinen in 2005.

The Northern Multilingualism (2008–2011) and Peripheral Multilingualism (2011–2014) projects are funded by the Finnish Academy.

The interviews were held in 2004 and 2006 by Pietikäinen.