"Language preservation may not seem important in some circles, but it is when it comes to the heritage and tradition linked to a native tongue such as Navajo.

It is becoming more and more difficult to preserve the Navajo language because it is difficult to learn and fewer young Navajo seem to be learning it.

That's why language preservation is among several important topics that will get attention when Diné College in Shiprock hosts the 18th Navajo Studies Conference, beginning today and continuing through Saturday.

The conference is an important way to address issues facing the tribe in a logical, brainstorming-type session, and we endorse the work of Diné College and thank it for its leadership role in helping the Navajo people.

Protecting Navajo culture and the issues threatening sacred sites are among the other topics on the agenda, which includes public forums on sustainability, research presentations, sessions on Navajo poetry and art, field trips to local attractions and a Friday evening banquet."

Get the Story:
Editorial: Dine College hosts Navajo Studies forum (The Farmington Daily Times 3/12)

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