The Importance of Language Revitalization
- The majority of living, native Chamoru speakers are over 60 years old.
- The Chamoru language is considered a critically endangered language.
- Prugråman Sinipok aims to support adult Chamoru speakers in revitalizing their language.
In July, Prugråman Sinipok, a Chamoru language immersion program for adults, will return to Guam for its fourth iteration. The two-week program provides tools, instruction, and resources to empower participants to give life to the Chamoru language. The inaugural program took place on Guam in 2022, and it has since been held in Southern California. The program’s lead teacher, Bevacqua, and his team of experts, including Anna Marie Arceo, Påle’ Eric Forbes, and Frank Rabon, will guide participants through daily language lessons, cultural site visits, and language transmission from local Chamoru leaders. During the program, participants will have the opportunity to learn from important figures who are deeply involved in both cultural and language revitalization.
A Unique Approach to Language Revitalization
- Prugråman Sinipok provides a unique opportunity for adult Chamoru speakers to learn their native language.
- The program offers a holistic approach to language revitalization, incorporating cultural and historical aspects.
- Participants learn from experienced Chamoru leaders and experts in the field.
The program’s approach is rooted in the understanding that language is deeply connected to culture and identity. By providing a comprehensive and immersive experience, Prugråman Sinipok aims to empower participants to give life to the Chamoru language.
The Role of Local Leaders in Language Revitalization
“Language is the key to preserving our culture and identity,” said Bevacqua. “We have a beautiful language that has been asleep for far too long, and we need to do all we can to ensure it is spoken for generations to come.”
Local leaders, such as Anna Marie Arceo, Påle’ Eric Forbes, and Frank Rabon, play a crucial role in language revitalization. They share their expertise and experiences with participants, providing a firsthand perspective on the importance of language and culture.
The Challenges of Language Revitalization
- Adults who learn a heritage language often face challenges beyond language acquisition, including uncovering painful history, cultural practices, and lack of language transmission within families.
- Prugråman Sinipok provides a safe and supportive environment for participants to learn and grow.
Those who begin their language learning journey as adults often face unique challenges. Prugråman Sinipok recognizes these challenges and provides a nurturing environment for participants to overcome them.
Success Stories
| Participant | Quote |
| Vinny “Simiya” Prell | “In my family, I grew up with a lot of silence about what it meant to be Chamoru. Through learning Chamoru language and culture, I began to understand that it was because my parents and grandparents had been thought to think badly of being Chamoru. One of the many gifts of Prugråman Sinipok is the ability to build my skill in the language and my whole family’s pride in the culture.” |
Prugråman Sinipok has had the unique opportunity to learn from many Chamoru leaders who have since passed away. The program’s success is evident in the stories of its participants, who have found a sense of pride and connection to their culture through the language.
A Call to Action
Revitalization: The process of restoring or renewing a language, culture, or community.
Endangered: A language or culture that is at risk of falling out of use and disappearing.
Immersive: An educational experience that surrounds a student with the language and culture they are learning.
Culturally-sensitive: An approach that takes into account the cultural and historical context of the language and community.
Holistic: An approach that considers the whole person, including their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
Revitalization efforts: The actions taken to preserve and promote a language, culture, or community.
Community-based: An approach that involves the community in the preservation and promotion of their language and culture.
Empowerment: The process of giving individuals the power, knowledge, and skills they need to make informed decisions and take action.
Language education: The process of teaching and learning a language.
Revitalization language programs: Programs that aim to restore or renew a language, culture, or community.
Revitalization is key to preserving culture and identity. Language is deeply connected to culture and identity, and revitalization efforts are necessary to preserve and promote a language and culture.
Prugråman Sinipok plays a vital role in revitalizing the Chamoru language and culture. The program’s unique approach, local leaders, and supportive environment make it an essential part of language revitalization efforts in the Chamoru community.