Institute to further Alaska Native language revitalization
May 14, 2018
Leona Long
907-474-5086
Approximately 140 language instructors, first-language speakers and language learners will attend the Alaska Native Language Revitalization Institute, May 21-24 at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. Hosted by the 性欲社 College of Rural and Community Development, the institute is part of continued language revitalization efforts for the state鈥檚 Alaska Native languages.

鈥淭his is a critical moment in time for us to invest in Alaska Native languages,鈥 said Sandra Kowalski, the college's director of indigenous programs. 鈥淲e are excited to host this institute in support of those at the front lines of language revitalization to advance this important work.鈥
, the number of people speaking Alaska鈥檚 20 indigenous languages has steadily declined. Earlier this year, the Alaska Native Language Preservation Advisory Council鈥檚 predicted that most of the state鈥檚 indigenous languages may be dormant or extinct by the end of the 21st century, should that trend continue. The report also advocated for policies supporting language revitalization efforts and programs that develop fluent speakers.
Sponsored by Rep. Dan Ortiz, I-Ketchikan, was based on recommendations from the Alaska Native Language Preservation Advisory Council. The resolution calls for the Legislature, state agencies and Alaska Native groups to follow policies that encourage the use of Alaska Native languages.
The institute is hosting 10 languages, including Yup鈥檌k, I帽upiaq, Tlingit, Haida, Gwich鈥檌n, Dena鈥檌na, Ahtna, Deg Xiang, Sugpiaq, Alutiiq, and Denaakke鈥. During the institute, teams of 20 people will work together to promote language revitalization efforts and preparing educators to teach the language. Each team includes four elders or first-language speakers and 10 participants.
The institute has reached capacity for participation and registration is closed.
ADDITIONAL CONTACT: Sandy Kowalski at sjkowalski@alaska.edu or 907-474-7089.