Mniejszości kulturowe i językowe we współczesnym świecie – w stronę animacji kultury

Cultural and Linguistic Minorities in the Modern World – Towards Cultural AnimationThe situation of cultural and linguistic minorities in the 21st century demands reflection about their status and the way of existing in relation to dominant cultures. Even defining the criteria of belonging to the minority is problematic. The objective criteria, i.e. the usage of the ethnic language, the way of dressing, the lifestyle – are now insufficient. Nowadays, to survive in the modern world the minorities adapt the techniques developed by the dominant cultures. The obliteration of cultural differences does not have to mean disappearance of minority cultures. They can find for themselves such niches where they have a chance to exist and to develop. But not all cultural activists accept the modernization of such cultures. They are afraid that they would lose their character and uniqueness. It seems, nevertheless, that the process is inevitable, yet it does not have to have negative consequences. In order to secure their existence the minority cultures need specific actions aimed at their survival. The financial and institutional help from the state seems not to be sufficient to mobilize ordinary people to become involved in the culture of their ancestors. The most efficient way – because directed at the needs and desires of people – is cultural animation. Thanks to the work of cultural animators many people can arouse in themselves the need and wish to join the struggle for survival of minority cultures and languages in the modern world.