2008 Conference on the Reclamation of Indigenous Languages

Sponsored by Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation
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Conference on the Reclamation of Indigenous Languages

Hosted by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation

February 20-22, 2008

 Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center

Mashantucket, Connecticut 

Welcome to the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and the 4th biennial Conference on the Reclamation of Indigenous Languages.

As Native people, we seek balance in our lives and our pursuits.  This was our intention when we expanded the scope of our Language Reclamation Conference in 2006 to include the visual, written and performing arts.  Presentations by many fine scholars and artists met with tremendous feedback from all who attended.  We have decided to continue this innovation for 2008’s gathering.  We are proud to present many diverse and accomplished speakers and performers who have devoted their life’s work to the study, preservation and celebration of indigenous languages.  


The Great Cedar Swamp “Kupahkamuk” translated “refuge or enclosed structure”, was refuge and sustenance for the Pequots in times of War and conflict for over 10,000 yrs.


The themes that will be addressed in 2008 include the following: Instructional Techniques, Linguistics in the Context of Preservation and Reconstruction, Technological Innovations, and the Artistic Application of Language.  In addition to these sessions, we will be hosting two Roundtables: Dictionary Building and Community Language Project Policy Development.  Our keynote speakers are highly regarded practitioners and instructors in the field of language preservation from the Hawaiian Studies and Language Center and the University of California at Berkeley.  

Registrants can enjoy a full course breakfast and lunch as well as access to our world-renowned 308,000 square foot Museum and Research Center.  Our elegant banquet, hosted at the award-winning and beautiful Lake of Isles golf course, will feature a truly entertaining Native American comedian.  As with previous conferences we will host Native artisans and book vendors and the Museum’s gift shop, featuring Native fine art, jewelry, clothing, furnishings, music, books and instructional materials is always a destination for every visitor.   Our resorts offer gaming, fine dining, designer shopping, spa amenities, music and entertainment amidst the rich history and natural beauty of southern New England.





We hope you will join us for another spectacular conference in 2008 as we further efforts to reclaim and perpetuate Native North America’s unique and precious languages of heritage.

 

Warmly,

Charlene R. Jones
Chairwoman, Historical & Cultural Preservation Committee
Secretary, Tribal Council, Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation