First Advisor

Modesta Minthorn

Date of Award

Spring 6-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Anthropology and University Honors

Department

Anthropology

Language

English

Subjects

Indigenous Language Revitalization, Language Revival, Native American Languages, Cherokee, Klamath

DOI

10.15760/honors.1653

Abstract

In recent decades, there have been initiatives to revitalize Indigenous languages all across the globe. This paper explores the efforts of two Native American tribes to revitalize their Indigenous languages in the face of historical and ongoing colonial pressures. Models for language revitalization necessarily differ based on an Indigenous group’s specific historical, cultural, and even geographical contexts, which makes the development of standardized models for Indigenous Language Revitalization challenging. This literature review will examine how the Cherokee Nation and the Klamath Tribes are implementing language revitalization on a tribal level in ways that address each tribe’s unique historical successes and challenges in revitalizing their cultures. Both tribes are utilizing a combination of traditional and modern methods to reclaim their languages and cultural identities. This literature review will delve into the historical context of language loss, particularly through colonial practices like boarding schools. I am to highlight the critical role of language in reviving Indigenous knowledge systems and cultural values. I will also address the importance of language as a tool for cultural resilience and tribal sovereignty in a modern context. The goal of this thesis is to emphasize the vital role of language in sustaining Indigenous cultures and identities, and the ongoing importance of community-led, culturally embedded language revitalization efforts.

Rights

In Copyright. URI: http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/ This Item is protected by copyright and/or related rights. You are free to use this Item in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use. For other uses you need to obtain permission from the rights-holder(s).

Persistent Identifier

https://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/43729

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