Project: BBNCEF Assess and Develop Plan to restore and increase speakers for the Peninsula Dialect of Alutiiq language

Project Description:  Assess, document and develop plan to restore and increase speakers for the Peninsula Dialect of Alutiiq language. The Alutiiq/Sugpiaq language has two recognized dialects, Koniag and Chugach. The Koniag dialect is spoken from the Alaska Peninsula to Kodiak, whereas the Chugach dialect is spoken from the Kenai Peninsula to Prince William Sound. Most classes being offered were from the Kodiak area and consisted of the Kodiak Alutiiq dialect. Based on interviews there are very few (less than 10) first-language speakers of Alutiiq. Our Alutiiq communities are located on the Alaska Peninsula from Egegik, down to Perryville, and up to Lake Iliamna. Of Bristol Bay’s three languages, Alutiiq has the lowest number of speakers.

People/Organizations responsible for completing these steps: The Bristol Bay Native Corporation Education Foundation (BNCEF) will be the project lead and will work with the Native Village of Port Heiden and Tribes in our Alutiiq Communities to document and interview local Alutiiq Speakers.

Cost Estimates:

Costs: An estimated $360,000 annually for 3 years (A final budget will be produced in March 2022)

Timeline: 2022-2026

Funding Partners: BBNC Education Foundation and Native Village of Port Heiden

Evaluation Measures:

  • Identify number of speakers
  • Identify and document Traditional Place Names for Alutiiq Communities
  • Identify plan moving forward for next steps.

Key Project Contact:

Name: Kay Larson-Blair

Title: Cultural Heritage Program Officer

Organization: Bristol Bay Native Corporation Education Foundation

Questions about the CEDS?

Contact Kristina Andrew

Economic Development Program Manager

kRandrew@bbna.com

(907)-842-5257 ext. 6223

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