Wednesday, July 23, 2025 – Language revitalization: apps, games, and classroom lessons help keep Native languages vital

Education advocates are launching a multi-year program to develop a game and to teach the Denaakk’e language in schools. That and another language teaching apps come at a time when almost all federal funding for language revitalization is eliminated. We’ll also talk with a man about his personal journey learning the Cherokee language, an undertaking that inspired him to learn more about his tribal language’s history and importance in maintaining culture.

GUESTS

Joel Isaak (Dena’ina Athabascan), director of language and culture for the Kenaitze Indian Tribe

Mariah Pitka (Louden Tribe), executive director for the Doyon Foundation

Dr. Benjamin Frey (Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians), assistant professor of Cherokee language and culture at the University of North Carolina–Asheville

Jamie Jacobs (Tonawanda Seneca), managing curator for the Rock Foundation collections at the Rochester Museum and Science Center

 

Break 1 Music: Siyo, Siyo (song) Paula Nelson (artist) C.H.A.N.T. Cherokee Hope And New Traditions (album)

Break 2 Music: Steamboat Akalii Song (song) Jay Begaye (artist) Horses Are Our Journey World (album)