WAUSAU – The cornerstone of any culture or community is its language, where oral histories are passed down, knowledge is shared and bonds are formed. In Wisconsin and around the county, many indigenous languages are under threat of disappearing, putting the cultural identity of many tribes at risk. Today, efforts are underway to revitalize critically endangered Native American languages, which advocates say confers cognitive advantages, enhances self-esteem and cultural well-being, and strengthens community bonds.
At 10 a.m. Jan. 27, “Route 51” host Shereen Siewert welcomes Waawaakeyaash Keller Paap, indigenous knowledge development coordinator at the Waadookodaading Ojibwe Language Institute, and Waqnahwew Ben Grignon, Menominee language and culture coordinator with the Menominee Indian School District, for a discussion on initiatives that aim to protect indigenous languages, ensuring that the cultural and linguistic identities of Native American people are preserved.
Listeners can join the conversation by calling 800-780-9742 or email questions to [email protected].
“Route 51” is heard Fridays at 10 a.m. on The Ideas Network stations 101.3 & 91.9/Wausau, AM 930/Auburndale-Stevens Point, 99.1/Stevens Point, 100.9/Marshfield, 90.3/Park Falls, 89.1/Adams-Wisconsin Rapids, 89.9/Rhinelander-Eagle River, 88.3/Menomonie-Eau Claire and 88.7/River Falls and live streamed at wrfw887.com/listen-live.html. It is re-broadcast Fridays at 7 p.m. on 90.9/Wausau. Program archives are available at wpr.org/route51.
