Stoney Nakota First Nation introduces teaching textbook to keep language alive

KANANASKIS, Alta. – The Stoney Nakoda First Nation in southwestern Alberta has come up with a new textbook and dictionary as a way of preserving its traditional language.

Stoney remains the first language for a majority of members on the three reserves that make up the First Nation.

The language has traditionally been passed along orally and there is a concern that it could fade away once some of the senior members are gone.

Stoney is being taught to the 1,500 students on the First Nation and started off a few years ago with a basic Stoney Nakoda textbook.