Description: Language Shift Among the Navajos: Identity Politics and Cultural Continuity Author: House, Deborah Title: Language Shift Among the Navajos: Identity Politics and Cultural Continuity Publication: University of Arizona Press, 2002 Edition: First Edition Description: Hardcover. First edition (first printing). A fine copy in a fine dust jacket. Former owner's name in pencil on front free endpaper. To experience change on the Navajo Reservation, one need only close one's eyes and listen. Today an increasing number of Navajos speak only English, while very few speak only Navajo. The Navajo language continues to be taught, but it is less often practiced. Deborah House asks why, despite the many factors that would seem to contribute to the maintenance of the Navajo language, speakers of the language continue to shift to English at such an alarming rate--and what can be done about it. Language Shift among the Navajos provides a close look at the ideological factors that intervene between the desire of the Navajos to maintain their language as an important aspect of their culture and their actual linguistic practice. Based on more than ten years of fieldwork within a Navajo institution and community, it points to ideologies held by Navajo people about their unequal relationship with the dominant American society as a primary factor in the erosion of traditional language use. House suggests that the Navajos employ their own paradigm--Sa'ah Naaghai Bik'eh Hozhoon--to learn both Western language and culture and their own without denigrating either perspective. By building on the traditional Navajo belief in harmony and balance, she advocates that those who value the language should use and teach it not just in school but also in the home, in the ceremonial hogans, and among those who cherish their heritage. Now is the time when language choices and behavior will influence whether the Navajo language lives or dies. House's book carries important lessons for anyone concerned with cultural continuity. It is a wake-up call for educators, youth, politicians, or family and community members who value Native language and culture. It remains to be seen in what language that call will be answered. Seller ID: 363867 Subject: Native American Studies Eureka Books Eureka Books is a full-service new, used, and antiquarian bookstore located in Old Town, Eureka, on California's far northern coast. Established 1987. Terms All orders ship within two business days. Standard mail is USPS Media Mail. Expedited and international shipping are also available. We offer combined shipping on multiple orders. All items are guaranteed to be as described or they may be returned within 30 days of receipt for a full refund.This listing was created by Bibliopolis.
Price: 25 USD
Location: Eureka, California
End Time: 2025-01-29T04:35:15.000Z
Shipping Cost: 9 USD
Product Images
Item Specifics
Restocking Fee: No
Return shipping will be paid by: Seller
All returns accepted: Returns Accepted
Item must be returned within: 30 Days
Refund will be given as: Money Back
Author: House, Deborah
Publisher: University of Arizona Press
Year Printed: 2002
Special Attributes: 1st Edition, Dust Jacket
Binding: Hardcover
Language: English
Original/Facsimile: Original
