The Navajo Nation is prioritizing the elevation and preservation of the Navajo language through a new mid-term initiative aimed at developing a comprehensive learning program. This effort coincides with long-standing linguistic support provided by the San Juan School District's Heritage Language Resource Center, which has produced Diné Bizaad materials for over 40 years.
Navajo Nation Educational Priorities
The Nygren Administration announced a series of educational priorities designed to address modern challenges and preserve cultural heritage. As part of its mid-term goals, the administration intends to elevate the Navajo language by creating a comprehensive learning program. This plan is part of a broader effort to resolve issues brought on by COVID-1ict, such as increased learning disparities and mental wellness needs.
Preserving Cultural Traditions
The administration's long-term vision includes saving Navajo culture so the community can continue to learn about the Navajo way-of-life, ceremonies, and life healing sciences. To support this, the Nation plans to work with Tribally Controlled Grant Schools that have the responsibility to educate children in a manner supporting their language and cultural beliefs.
Four Decades of Language Resources
The San Juan School District's Heritage Language Resource Center has served as a critical pillar for language preservation for more than four decades. The center creates Diné Bizaad materials specifically for students in San Juan County, providing a media-rich environment that includes reading materials, flashcards, posters, vocabulary games, and audio CDs of traditional songs and stories.
Traditional Narratives and Authors
The materials produced by the center often originate from traditional Navajo narratives and teachings. Notable authors contributing to this body of work include Don Mose, Jr., Clayton Long, Lucille Hunt, Dolores Noble, and Dr. Katherine Duncum, among others. The center also provides a selection of materials for Uinta-Ouray and Ute Mountain Ute educators.
Leadership and Support Team
The Heritage Language Resource Center is currently directed by Rebecca Stoneman-Washee and assisted by Karen Bronson. The center's operations are supported by a team of volunteers, including Kent Tibbetts, Katherine Hurst, Lucille Hunt, Ernie Washee, Steve Bronson, Clint Behunin, and Gary Bronson. Navajo Language Specialists for the center include Lucille Hunt, Don Mose, Stella Jones, and Brenda Whitehorse.
