Reclaiming Voices: The Interplay of Language, Literature and Cultural Memory in Contemporary Movements of Decolonisation

Abstract

Decolonisation is often viewed as the conclusion of colonial rule, yet its cultural consequences extend well beyond political independence. This paper examines decolonisation as a continuing process that influences language, literature, and cultural memory in the 21^st century. Language remains a crucial site of struggle, as native tongues once silenced under colonialism face threats of decline but also revival through community initiatives. Literature, long shaped by external standards, now evolves through indigenous storytelling, multilingual expression, and experimental forms. Cultural memory, sustained through oral traditions, art, and local archives, is increasingly reshaped by global migration and digital technology. These forces can both safeguard and distort traditions. The study introduces the concept of cognitive reclamation, the conscious effort of communities to reclaim control over the narration of their histories and identities. Focusing on postcolonial theory, cultural memory studies, and digital media analysis, this paper highlights decolonisation as a dynamic cultural practice, arguing that the right to narrate one’s own story is fundamental to preserving identity in an interconnected and rapidly changing world.