2023-10-27 18:51:03
The sociologist and researcher in the field of Sociolinguistics Iñaki Martínez de Luna (Vitoria, 1950) has been awarded the Manuel Lekuona Prize, instituted by Eusko Ikaskuntza-Society of Basque Studies in 1983 for the recognition of outstanding personalities for their work in favor of the Basque culture.
Eusko Ikaskuntza recalled that Martínez de Luna has a doctorate in Sociology from the University of Deusto and over almost forty years he has directed research of “great significance”, aimed at deepening scientific knowledge of the process of revitalization of Basque and the reality Basque social
This society has pointed out that Iñaki Martínez de Luna has combined scientific activity with his “active commitment to the development of Euskal Herria”, and has recalled his work both at the local level and in study and research groups, among which he has cited Euskaltzaindia, University of the Basque Country, Garabide or the Sociolinguistics Cluster.
He also recalled his participation in the Topalabe reflection group, created within Euskaltzaleen Topagunea. “His extensive resume shows a clear vocation for innovation, for addressing unknown areas and generating synergies,” he added.
Revitalization of the Basque language
The award jury considers that his contribution “should not be considered unrelated to the current climate of collaboration around the Basque language revitalization process” and recalled that he was responsible for the Lehendakaritza Sociological Prospecting Office of the Basque Government from 1986 to 2015, and a professor deputy of the UPV/EHU from 1989 to 2015.
Likewise, he has been a member of the Basque Advisory Council and is currently a member of the Álava Provincial Council and the Basque Government, as well as director of the subcommittee of the Action Plan for the Promotion of Basque, ESEP.
Member of Euskaltzaindia, Martínez de Luna, currently coordinates the ‘Euskararen Biziberritza Araban’ project within him. “The activity carried out by the GEU association of Vitoria, of which he was president between 2013 and 2015, also gives credit to his intense work in favor of Basque in Álava,” he indicated.
The jury highlighted his “extraordinary dedication to reflection and action on the challenges that must be overcome and the opportunities that the Basque language must take advantage of to guarantee its survival, with an open and limitless vision within the framework of its commitment to languages.” minorities from all over the world.
The presentation of the bronze sculpture, created by Remigio Mendiburu, which embodies the Manuel Lekuona Prize, will take place in a public event on a date yet to be determined.
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