Bringing Back Culture

Protecting and Restoring Languages

Distribution of Native American Languages

Language VariationFor such a small population, Indian languages are extremely diverse.

57 families grouped into 9 macro-families or phyla

300 distinct languages

2000 dialects

California—at least 20 families

West of Rockies—17 more

Rest of the continent—20 more

Today English is the most commonly spoken language, and many native languages are gone or will soon be so.

Language Preservation is the Key to Cultural Heritage Preservation

Restoring Health

Restoring Customs

Restoring Control of Tribal Education

American Indian Religious Freedom Act of 1978

Title 42 - The Public Health and Welfare    Chapter 21 - Civil Rights        SubChapter I - Generally

American Indian Religious Freedom Act of 1978

§ 1996. Protection and preservation of traditional religions of Native Americans On and after August 11, 1978, it shall be the policy of the United States to protect and preserve for American Indians their inherent right of freedom to believe, express, and exercise the traditional religions of the American Indian, Eskimo, Aleut, and Native Hawaiians, including but not limited to access to sites, use and possession of sacred objects, and the freedom to worship through ceremonials and traditional rites.

Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act