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Elders work to save Kenai's first language
Posted: Tuesday, September 02, 2008
KENAI - Several local organizations and individuals are working to save Kenai's first language from going extinct.
The Kenaitze Indian Tribe is working with other native American groups to preserve, revitalize and perpetuate the Dena'ina language.
They hosted a "Dena'ina Language Institute" recently with elders teaching about 15 students.
It is believed that of a total population of about 900 Dena'ina people, only about 75 can speak the language.
Dena'ina is an Athabascan language with four dialects in the Cook Inlet area.