Excuse me?

Just 50,000 Swiss still speak Rhaeto- Romanic, our fourth national language. It is a relic of the Roman occupation in ancient times. Despite the strong influence of the German language, Rhaeto-Romanic has held its own until recently in some areas of the Canton Graubünden. But is it still worthwhile to produce radio and TV programming in this language, to publish newspapers, textbooks, laws, and other publications? Yes, for there are good reasons for doing so.

Language is culture, and many languages mean cultural variety. This is just as important for the future of our civilization as the variety of species in nature. Therefore, we hold out hope that despite currently tight finances, we will continue to ensure that a native Swiss culture will endure and even continue to develop. In the spirit of linguistic variety, this year we wish you Bella Festas daz Nadal ed in Ventiravel.

Barbara Marti Kaisu Jääskö Linda Gaus Peter Wilhelm Yvonne Balz hellwach.ch The multilingual workshop Christensberg, CH-3556 Trub

This song in the Rhaeto-Romanic language by Linard Bardill is called "Vut." It is about a patriot who wants nothing to do with "hurrah patriotism." It was written by Men Rauch ( ).

Linard Bardill, who was born in 1956, completed his studies in theology, then went on stage, where he celebrated his debut in For his work he has received the Deutscher Kleinkunstpreis, the Salzburger Stier, and prizes from the city of Zurich and the Canton of Graubünden. More about him at We would like thank Linard for his generous gesture.