Senators Fight to Preserve Tribal Cultures Through Native Languages

Nkwusm Salish Language Institute The Nkwusm Salish Language Institute in Arlee,
Montana is trying to preserve the Salish language. Image Courtesy of Indian Country Today.

January 17, 2014.

Senator Tim Johnson, South Dakota, has written an exciting article for Indian Country Today about the Native Language Immersion Student Achievement Act which would "establish a grant program to fund Native language educational programs throughout Indian Country in order to improve high school graduation rates, increase college enrollment, and better prepare students for jobs."

"Native American languages are an integral part of American Indian culture and history. Unfortunately, throughout the decades, many Native languages have become extinct. I believe this legislation will encourage schools and colleges to develop and strengthen language programs to help our young children develop a fluency in their Native language."

-Senator Tim Johnson, South Dakota

Indian Country Today

For the full article, click here.

To view a copy of the Native Language Immersion Student Achievement Act (S. 1948), click here.