Click here to watch video of Chairman Hoeven’s opening remarks.
WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven (R-ND), chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, today convened an oversight hearing titled “Examining Efforts To Maintain And Revitalize Native Languages For Future Generations.” The hearing featured testimony from the Commissioner of the Administration for Native Americans, tribal representatives and other stakeholders who discussed efforts to promote and preserve native languages.
“Native languages are an ancient and distinct part of native identity and culture, and have played a critical role in our nation’s history,” Hoeven said. “Congress has identified the need to preserve and revitalize native languages and has disavowed past policies designed to eliminate languages and culture. Through the passage of the Native American Languages Act and the Esther Martinez Native American Languages Preservation Act, Congress formalized the promotion of native languages. These laws have helped facilitate opportunities for native communities to learn, research, and preserve their languages—ultimately strengthening their cultures and traditions.”
For witness testimony and video of the hearing click here.
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