This is a Dena’ina and Ahtna Place: The Dena’ina teh/theh eł Ahtna k’ae

Photo by Jeff Chen

Facilitated by Melissa Shaginoff;

Taught by Donita Slawson, Sondra Shaginoff-Stuart, and Kari Shaginoff

in partnership with The Nave, The CIRI Foundation, and Native Movement

From Melissa Shaginoff: "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 last year Dene language teachers (my Aunties!) DL Slawson, Kaggos Ts'akae, and Kari Lynn 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 this project came this very beginning Language Guidebook (Click Here to Access). While it is not cumulative education, we hope that it is something you feel eager the share with anyone interested in learning about Dena’ina and Ahtna languages. These are the languages of this land, perfectly designed to communicate the connection we all experience in Dghayitnu. Please enjoy!”

"Tsin’aen to Native Movement, The Nave, and The CIRI Foundation for supporting this project. And tsin’aen Jeff Chen for these great photos!"

-Melissa Shaginoff

At The Nave, community members participated in free Dena’ina and Ahtna Language and Culture Classes. Photo by Jeff Chen.