Influences on Aboriginal and Immigrant language groups in Canada : Some similarities and differences

This study provides a census-based data analysis of the demographic, family, household and community factors in relation to the growth, continuity and situation of Aboriginal and immigrant languages in Canada, over the 15-year census period of 1991 to 2006. This research follows the evolution of the three major Aboriginal languages (Cree, Inuktitut, Ojibway) and three major immigrant languages (Chinese, Italian, German) over the period 1991-2006 and discusses the factors associated with observed changes in their populations and selected language indicators. Language data on mother tongue, home language and knowledge are provided for these major languages from the past four censuses (1991, 1996, 2001 and 2006).