WSU Conference Highlights Preservation, Revitalization of Native Languages, Cultures

PULLMAN, Wash. — Washington State University will host more than 100 members of plateau and coastal tribes who are in Spokane this week to share information and teaching methods to preserve and revitalize languages and cultures of Native people throughout the region. The Native Languages and Cultures Regional Conference 2001 runs through Thursday at the Spokane Valley’s Doubletree Hotel.

Barbara Aston, conference spokeswoman and assistant to the WSU provost, said the conference also will expose attendees to services available to help preserve tribal artifacts.

Among the workshop topics during the Oct. 8-11 conference are teaching methods and curriculum development, culture programs, preservation of cultural foods and materials, storytelling and technology.

“The conference was planned to respond to the critical need and desire to present, revitalize and sustain the languages and cultures of Native people for future generations,” Aston said. WSU provides coordination for the conference.

Editor’s Note: To contact Aston at the DoubleTree Hotel in the Spokane Valley, call 509/924-9000. Workshops and demonstrations are scheduled throughout the day.

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