Title
Language Shift among the Navajos: Identity Politics and Cultural Continuity,New
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To experience change on the Navajo Reservation, one need only close one's eyes and listen. Today an increasing number of Navajos speak only English, while very few speak only Navajo. The Navajo language continues to be taught, but it is less often practiced. Deborah House asks why, despite the many factors that would seem to contribute to the maintenance of the Navajo language, speakers of the language continue to shift to English at such an alarming rateand what can be done about it. Language Shift among the Navajos provides a close look at the ideological factors that intervene between the desire of the Navajos to maintain their language as an important aspect of their culture and their actual linguistic practice. Based on more than ten years of fieldwork within a Navajo institution and community, it points to ideologies held by Navajo people about their unequal relationship with the dominant American society as a primary factor in the erosion of traditional language use. House suggests that the Navajos employ their own paradigmSaah Naagh Bikeh Hzhnto learn both Western language and culture and their own without denigrating either perspective. By building on the traditional Navajo belief in harmony and balance, she advocates that those who value the language should use and teach it not just in school but also in the home, in the ceremonial hogans, and among those who cherish their heritage. Now is the time when language choices and behavior will influence whether the Navajo language lives or dies. House's book carries important lessons for anyone concerned with cultural continuity. It is a wakeup call for educators, youth, politicians, or family and community members who value Native language and culture. It remains to be seen in what language that call will be answered.
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- Q: What is the main focus of 'Language Shift among the Navajos'? A: The book explores the reasons behind the shift of Navajos from speaking their native language to primarily using English, examining the ideological factors at play in this cultural change.
- Q: Who is the author of the book? A: The author of 'Language Shift among the Navajos' is Deborah House.
- Q: When was this book published? A: The book was published on February 1, 2005.
- Q: What is the condition of the book being sold? A: The book is listed as 'Used Book in Good Condition', indicating it is pre-owned but well-maintained.
- Q: How many pages does 'Language Shift among the Navajos' have? A: The book contains 121 pages.
- Q: What binding type does this book have? A: The book is available in paperback binding.
- Q: What are the key themes discussed in the book? A: Key themes include identity politics, cultural continuity, and the importance of maintaining the Navajo language and culture amidst societal pressures.
- Q: Is this book suitable for educators and community members? A: Yes, the book carries important lessons for educators, youth, politicians, and community members who value Native language and culture.
- Q: What approach does the author suggest for preserving the Navajo language? A: Deborah House advocates for using and teaching the Navajo language in various contexts, such as homes and ceremonial settings, to ensure its survival.
- Q: Does the book provide insights from fieldwork? A: Yes, the book is based on over ten years of fieldwork within a Navajo institution and community, offering a comprehensive view of the language shift.