Language Learners

In the 1990s, SHI’s Board of Trustees made the revitalization of Tlingit (Lingít), Haida (X̱aad Kíl), and Tsimshian (Shm’algyack) a priority. Since its inception, the institute has been a leader in documenting and revitalizing the languages, which contain a universe of wisdom about our planet, including history on ancient geographical events such as glacial movement and climate change.

  1. Elementary & Middle School Programs

    SHI co-founded and now funds the groundbreaking Tlingit Culture, Language, and Literacy (TCLL) program within the Juneau School District. In 2024, the program expanded to include students through grade 8.

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    Elementary students performing in traditional regalia

  2. Postsecondary Programs

    SHI sponsors Our Ancestors’ Echoes to support language students and teachers and offers language scholarships.

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    An Elder speaking into a microphone

  3. Southeast Regional Language Committee

    SHI is guided by a Southeast Regional Language Committee, which helps steer the institute’s language programs.

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    Rows of shell buttons sewn onto red and black wool

  4. Resources

    Check out our Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian resources curated by SHI for language teachers and students!

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    A fishing vessel crossing calm water beneath a misty sky