Hailhzaqvla (Heiltsuk)

Facts

  • Language: Hailhzaqvla (Heiltsuk)
  • Alternate names: Heiltsuk, Bella Bella, Heiltsuk-Oweek'ala, Belbellah, Heiltsuk-Oowekyala
  • Language code: hei
  • Language family: Wakashan, Northern Wakashan, Kwakuitlan (SIL classification)
  • Number of speakers: 39
  • Vulnerability: Endangered
  • Script:

More information:

    Golla et al. (2008): It has two deeply differentiated dialects, or emergent languages, Heiltsuk (also known as Bella Bella) and Oowekyala. Heiltsuk is principally spoken in two communities, Bella Bella (population 1200) and Kitasoo (or Klemtu, population 370), the latter on former Southern Tsimshian territory. There are between 100 and 200 fluent speakers, none under the age of 35.First People's Cultural Council distinguishes two languages, Hailhzaqvla (Heiltsuk) [with 60 speakers] and 'Uik'ala/Oowekyala [with 6 speakers].