Image credit: Jeff Chen

The Dena’ina teh/theh eł Ahtna k’ae “This is a Dena’ina and Ahtna place” project was created with the hope of promoting the visibility and common usage of the Dena’ina and Ahtna languages in the community of Dghayitnu (Anchorage). At the start of 2024 Dene language teachers (my Aunties!) Donita Slawson, Sondra Shaginoff-Stuart, and Kari Shaginoff held free monthly classes at The Nave. The class taught a beginning-level understanding of the Dena’ina and Ahtna languages and history. It focused on the close cultural connections the Dena’ina and Ahtna people share as well as the shared challenges in language reclamation.  

“We can reclaim our language by using it frequently and being mindful to use it actively. Unlike our ancestors who were restricted from speaking due to colonization, we now have more opportunities to speak our language. It is now up to us to make the choice to incorporate our language into our daily lives, and in doing so, we can make a profound impact on the Ahtna community." - Sondra Shaginoff-Stuart

Out of the project came this very beginning Language Guidebook (link in bio). While it is not cumulative education, we hope that it is something you feel eager to share with anyone interested in learning about the Dena’ina and Ahtna languages. They are the languages of this land, perfectly designed to communicate the connection we all experience in Dghayitnu.

We are happy to provide these beginning free resources, but please consider how you might support the work of our teachers. You can start by visiting Sondra Shaginoff-Stuart’s website.