Community / Move to social media a ‘real step forward’ for dialect group
LOCAL dialect promotion group Shetland ForWirds has used lockdown to enter the world of social media.
The group now has a presence on Facebook and Instagram in a bid to raise the profile of Shetland dialect.
Shetland ForWirds’ annual concert was shelved as a result of coronavirus restrictions, along with other activities.
Karlin Anderson, a jeweller who recently returned home to live in Shetland, has been behind the move to social media.
“Coming home for visits over the years, I noticed a decline in the use of the dialect and have found it sad given that it has always been such a positive thing for me personally,” she said.
“But I also think it is a positive thing for the islands as a whole. Our dialect is part of who we are. It will change over the years as it has in years past. But if we lose it, I feel we also lose a wonderful part of our identity and what has made us who we are today.
“We in the social media team are excited about the opportunities that both Facebook and Instagram offer us in continuing the good work Shetland ForWirds has already done in promoting and encouraging the use of our unique dialect.
“We firmly believe that the dialect is not just for the Shetland born, but for all who call Shetland home. The ability to incorporate audio and video alongside written dialect, on a platform so many people use every day, will help us to allow non-native speakers to engage in dialect too.”
Fellow conveners of Shetland ForWirds Laureen Johnson and Mary Blance said: “We’re delighted to have new folk on board with a passion for the dialect and the skills to create and maintain a social media presence. It’s a real step forward for ForWirds.”
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.
Already a supporter? Sign in to hide this message.
