Bah Kho Je Language Project
The Bah Kho Je Language Project Department is now located in the Paragon Building (Old Clinic) at 501 East Hwy # 33, Perkins, OK 74059. Telephone number there is 405-547-5433 at Ext. 23. Hours are regular business hours, M-F, 8-5.
Because this is an Implementation Grant, we will concentrate on actually implementing a language program. This project meets the Iowa Tribes long-range goal which is: to Protect and strengthen Tribal sovereignty, maintain and perpetuate Tribal values and cultural heritage, and develop and enhance the health, welfare, and quality of life of the People of the Iowa Nation. We are still in the planning stages and still setting-up our offices, but you are welcome to come by for a visit and see the new offices. This Grant was written, submitted and approved for funding, so the goals and objectivities are already identified. It is my responsibility to carry out these mandates. In the future, when we have established the needs of the tribe and community, we can then, plan, form, and develop an on-going learning and teaching method. But right now, we will have to adhere to the Grant guidelines and criteria. There are many technical duties and tasks that are being completed to satisfy our funding agency, but we always have time to show you around and tell you about the project, and try to answer your questions. We also welcome you, to share what you wish, and to tell us what you would like for us to know (about yourself, family, etc.), and of course we will listen to any of your reasonable suggestions.
Initially, we will be planning and developing materials which will help in speaking Ioway. Most of the activities will eventually begin taking shape and we anticipate full practices beginning the middle of May. You are welcome to participate in the language program, and we especially encourage the Youth and Elders, as they are specifically mentioned in the Grant. Here is a sample Form for the Elders Advisory Board that you can fill out and return to us, either, here, at the Tribal Complex, via US postal service, or hand delivered. This Elders Advisory Board will meet at least twice a month and is vital to the Project. Please come and help as we work together to save our language and culture.
Thank you,
Joyce Miller
BKJ Language Implementation Project Manager
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