The Jicarilla Apache language, an Athabaskan dialect spoken in northern New Mexico, faces significant challenges due to its declining speaker population. Currently, there are 3,990 members, with 3,030 over the age of 18, indicating an aging demographic. The loss of elders, who hold invaluable wisdom and cultural knowledge, increases the shortage of language speakers.

Differences of opinions about methods for language preservation can hinder progress, particularly in adopting innovative technologies. This project claims to address one method for preservation that is supported by research and shows promise:  mentorship.

For a detailed proposal, please contact us for a digital copy. Iheedn.