ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — On March 13, Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren met with the University of New Mexico’s Navajo Language Program (NLP), a program dedicated to advancing the study of Diné Bizaad, linguistics, history, and culture.
Since 1970, the NLP has played a vital role in offering courses, conducting research, and publishing important work in Navajo linguistics. Their efforts continue to strengthen language revitalization and ensure that Diné knowledge systems are carried forward for future generations.
The meeting featured Dr. Melvatha Chee, Director of the Navajo Language Program and associated teachers, Mary Whitehair and Nathaniel Brown. Discussions centered on the importance of sustaining Diné Bizaad through education, research, and family and community engagement. Program leaders emphasized that while children begin speaking at an early age, consistent use at home is critical to maintaining fluency—especially as many young people leave home for school and lose daily connection with fluent speakers.
Leaders also highlighted “Saad K’idilyé,” a grassroots 501(c)(3) organization based in Albuquerque, meaning “The Planting of the Language Seed.”
Saad K’idilyé is the first Diné language immersion program focused on language and cultural revitalization. In August 2026, the program will begin its fifth year as a fully licensed early childhood education and child care center, serving prenatal families, infants, toddlers, and Pre-K students. Community advocates, including Nathaniel Brown and Mary Whitehair, emphasized the need for more urban access to Diné language learning opportunities.
President Nygren encouraged continued efforts to strengthen Diné Bizaad, stating, “I’m proud of you all for continuing to learn how to speak and teach Navajo. Many young people are learning, but we must also understand the meaning behind our words and teachings.”
He also highlighted the need to expand language resources, including books, films, and writing tools.
President Nygren reaffirmed that language revitalization remains a priority, adding, “Ensuring that younger generations continue to learn, speak, and live Diné Bizaad is a shared responsibility.”
In a separate meet and greet with the UNM Diné Student Club, President Nygren shared ongoing initiatives from the Office of the President to strengthen Diné Bizaad across the Navajo Nation. These efforts include expanding online language resources with monthly Diné stories, vocabulary lessons, and conversational tools; integrating Diné Bizaad into daily government operations; increasing bilingual signage; and supporting early childhood immersion programs.
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