Elder speakers wanted to help with project
Editor’s note: This press release was received June 22, 2020.
With COVID-19 continuing to threaten communities across Alaska, ongoing Tlingit language revitalization efforts are particularly at risk. Many Tlingit culture camps and language study opportunities have been canceled or postponed this summer, and elders are more isolated from the communities with which they usually share their knowledge.
In response, Sitka-based nonprofit organization Outer Coast is partnering with the Sealaska Heritage Institute to co-host Kashook’ Áa K?aa Ee Dulto?owu Ye?, a Tlingit Language Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) for language learners in Sitka, Southeast Alaska and beyond.
Led by Outer Coast faculty member and UAS Associate Professor of Alaska Native Languages X?’unei Lance Twitchell, the course will be accessible at no cost for all participants. The course will run five days a week for Tlingit language learners of any level of proficiency, with live lessons on Tuesdays and Thursdays and small conversation groups segmented by ability on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Recordings will also be made available.
We will also work alongside our partners to connect with elders in order to bring their knowledge into the course. We are committed to providing the technology and connectivity support for any elder interested in joining, whether that be through MiFi internet access or tablets and laptops. Reach out to us if you or any elder you know may be interested.
To express your interest and receive more information, visit http://www.outercoast.org/tlingit.
