Lessons from Fort Apache: Beyond Language Endangerment and Maintenance

Lessons from Fort Apache is an ethnography that examines the dynamics of Indigenous languages on the Fort Apache reservation in Arizona, with implications for language endangerment and cultural identity. It argues that the debates surrounding language revitalization need to include broader questions of social mediation, shifting cultural identities, and the politics of the relationship between Indigenous community members and university-accredited experts. The ethnography explores the community's historical and contemporary concerns for language documentation, maintenance, and revitalization and demonstrates the need for flexibility in finding politically sustainable forms of collaboration and exchange between researchers, teachers, and community members.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 282 pages
Publication date: 01 January 2024
Publisher: University of Nebraska Press

Lessons from Fort Apache is an ethnography that delves into the intricate dynamics of Indigenous languages on the Fort Apache reservation in Arizona, with far-reaching implications for language endangerment both in North America and globally. Moving beyond a mere focus on linguistic documentation, M. Eleanor Nevins explores how the linguistics and cultural identities of Indigenous populations are intertwined and assigned meaning in the broader context of sociocultural concerns and interests. While acknowledging the importance of language documentation and preservation, Nevins also provides a crucial evaluation of potential conflicts that may arise between community members, educators, and scholars who research their linguistic heritage.

Nevins argues that the discussions surrounding the revitalization of Indigenous languages must broaden to encompass larger questions such as social mediation, shifting cultural identities, and the politics inherent in the relationship between Indigenous community members and university-accredited experts, including language researchers and educators. Through this engaging ethnography, Nevins examines these critical issues and delves into the language dynamics of the Fort Apache Reservation, highlighting both the unintended challenges posed by standardized textual models and the community's historical and contemporary concerns for language documentation, maintenance, and revitalization.

One of the key insights from Lessons from Fort Apache is the demonstration of the necessity for language maintenance programs. Nevins highlights the challenges faced by Indigenous languages, which are often at risk of decline due to various factors such as language loss, cultural assimilation, and the dominance of dominant languages. By implementing these programs, communities can work towards preserving and revitalizing their languages, ensuring that future generations can continue to inherit and use them.

Furthermore, the ethnography emphasizes the need for flexibility in finding politically sustainable forms of collaboration and exchange between researchers, teachers, and community members who base their claims to an Indigenous language in alternate terms. Nevins recognizes that language revitalization is not a one-size-fits-all approach and that different communities may have unique needs and priorities. By fostering open dialogue and respecting the diverse perspectives and experiences of community members, researchers can develop more effective strategies for language maintenance and revitalization that align with local interests and values.

In conclusion, Lessons from Fort Apache serves as a valuable contribution to the field of linguistics and anthropology. Through its ethnographic exploration of Indigenous language dynamics, Nevins sheds light on the complex interplay between language, culture, and society. The book emphasizes the importance of language documentation, preservation, and revitalization, while also raising awareness about the potential conflicts that may arise between community members, educators, and scholars. By advocating for broader perspectives and flexible approaches, Lessons from Fort Apache contributes to the ongoing efforts to promote language diversity and preserve the rich linguistic heritage of Indigenous communities worldwide.

Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781496231468
Edition number: New Edition