The association Elgoibarko Izarra, the City Council, and two local Basque language schools launched the 'Tertuliak' program in 2001. Its main objective was to provide an opportunity to speak and hear Basque for those who lacked the ease or chance to do so.
This year marks 25 years since the initiative began, and its promoters have organized a celebration to commemorate this special anniversary. The event will take place on June 18th at the Aita Agirre cultural center, starting at 7:00 PM. All citizens who have participated in the 'Tertuliak' program are invited to the celebration.
According to the organizers, the program has contributed «greatly to the Basque-speaking community of Elgoibar», and «many people are more proficient in Basque thanks to this program». The celebration will highlight the work done by the participants and express gratitude for their involvement.
The organizers have indicated that the event will be «a modest but genuine celebration». A video about the 'Tertuliak' program will premiere, and there will be small gifts for those who have been participants. The anniversary party will conclude with singing.
Since 2001, approximately 35-40 people have participated in the program each year. Registration is open and free, although participants must understand Basque and possess a minimum speaking level. The goal is to practice existing skills and learn new ones.
Elgoibarko Izarra explains that registered participants are offered «spaces and companions to speak Basque for an hour a week». Groups of five or six people are formed, with one member proficient in Basque (the 'bidelaguna' or facilitator) responsible for leading the group. The groups meet once a week, on a day and time of their choosing, with each session lasting at least one hour.
