Posted on: December 16, 2015
Students complete first book of Nsyilxcen language program
Congratulations to Jordan Coble, Flynn Wetton, and all the Syilx Language House Association, for completing the first Nsyilxcn 1 Book as part of a four-year Nsyilxcn language program that began in September 2015. Jordan and Flynn completed their oral exams on November 25, 2015 in front of fellow students, teachers, and visitors.
"Jordan and Flynn showed courage, pride, and respect while giving their oral exams. Thank you Jordan and Flynn for representing WFN with such dedication, enthusiasm, and leadership in an effort to preserve the Nsyilxcn language," said Thomas Konek, who attended the event.
Picture credit: Syilx Language House Association
Background
The Syilx Language House Association, a non-profit society located in Penticton and lead by Sʔímlaʔxʷ Michele Johnson, has a mission to develop and support new Nsyilxcn speakers within Syilx communities. There are eight member Nations within the Syilx Nation: Okanagan Indian Band, Westbank First Nation, Penticton Indian Band, Osoyoos Indian Band, Lower Similkameen Indian Band, Upper Similkameen Indian Band, Upper Nicola Indian Band, Colville Confederated Tribes. The Syilx Language House Association promotes the use, preservation, and revitalization of Nsyilxcn by running immersion classes, training teachers, recording Elders, and publishing language materials.