Building on Weaving Traditions: Kiowa Language and Customs

Date/Time
Date(s) - 28 Jun 2012
6:00 PM - 8:30 PM

The Jacobson House, Building on Weaving Traditions, will have weekly Kiowa language classes Thursdays 6-8:30p, Feb-June 2012. Through the initial “Weaving Traditions” grant the Jacobson House helped to renew the interest in the Kiowa language which is in danger of dying out. It is imperative to keep the momentum going to help the survival of the Kiowa language. Families & individuals gather at the Jacobson House. Guest speakers peak interest. Literally the Jacobson House is setting in motion a healthy community for families to learn the Kiowa language- a chance to meet & communicate with each other in Kiowa.

The classes will help produce Kiowa speakers of all ages. The emphasis is not only to learn the Kiowa that the great-grandparents used but to adapt the language to fit the current living conditions. Traditionally Kiowas spoke not only with their voices but with their hands. Many Kiowas use hand gestures today but few know proper Kiowa signing technique. Building on Weaving Traditions will enhance the Kiowa language classes to embody the full language by adding Kiowa sign to the weekly instruction and continue learning to speak and develop an accepted Kiowa writing technique needed for modern purposes. The Jacobson House has worked with Kiowas and the tribe since its inception in 1986.

One Kiowa language instructor will work with adults on vocabulary and simple phrases associated with Kiowa daily life and continue to develop an accepted Kiowa writing technique for the Kiowa community. Children will participate in language activities appropriate for younger students with another Kiowa language instructor. Families will receive printed learning materials for each class as well as CDs for at-home practice. Each month a special guest scholar with a specific knowledge in Kiowa culture & language will come to class to share certain detailed specialized skills and experiences. The class will lead up to the specialized activity given by the guest scholar as well as provide instruction for the Kiowa language meal.

There is no charge for participation or for the Kiowa language & cultural instruction. All materials are free of charge as well.

For more information, please call (405) 366-1667.

Location
Jacobson House