HELENA – Imagine browsing through your smartphone’s “App Store” and being able to download a talking dictionary that includes phrases such as “Shoo daa chii?” (“How are you?” in Apsáalooke) or “Ginnehayen” (“Thank you” in Aa Nii).

Well, thanks to the start of a comprehensive effort to preserve Indian languages in Montana, you may soon be able to do just that.

Governor Steve Bullock, Department of Commerce Director Meg O’Leary and Director of Indian Affairs Jason Smith, a CSKT tribal member and graduate of Polson High School, recently announced the award of $2 million in funds to Montana’s tribal governments for language preservation efforts through the Montana Indian Language Preservation Pilot Program (MILP3).

“The cultural heritage and history of the tribal nations began the story of Montana. We’re committed to protecting the American Indian culture and languages that are vital to the identity of tribal nations and state,” said Governor Bullock.  “This program ensures that the languages spoken by the First Montanans are preserved for future generations.” More.

See: The Leader Advertiser

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