Cherokee Nation steps up language revitalization: 4,300 words recorded for dictionary app, speaker surveys expand

Howard Peyton, speaking for the Cherokee Nation Language Department, gave the Culture Committee a detailed update on the tribe’s language‑revitalization effort, describing digital, classroom and field work intended to bolster Cherokee use and documentation. "We’ve recorded for the dictionary 4,300 words," Peyton said, adding that the team expects "by September 30, we'll have on that dictionary app over 20,000 words and phrases." Peyton framed the work as a mix of tech and practice, from teacher training to elder‑apprentice work.

Peyton told the committee the department runs a Teacher Assistance and Instruction (TAI) program and individualized language plans to help classroom teachers integrate subject‑matter vocabulary. He described a master‑apprentice program with 40 students and said 19 projects are active with 10 more slated to start. "You’ll see videos, curriculum," Peyton said, previewing materials due later this year.

A major focus of Peyton’s report was direct outreach to remaining first‑language speakers. He said the department has conducted 323 speaker surveys so far and expects to conduct more than 700 by Sept. 30, using a mix of home visits, office appointments and limited gift‑card incentives to collect information. "We’ve been to almost every speaker's home," he said, noting that some households require a personal, in‑person approach because many speakers lack reliable online access.

Councilors asked for more detail. Councilor McGee praised in‑community programming and asked staff to share lists of first‑language speakers in District 11; Peyton said staff will coordinate with council offices. Councilor Grant and others offered to help identify speakers in their districts and to host or visit classes. Councilor Black Fox Claws asked how outreach is coordinated given multiple phone calls; Peyton said outreach relies heavily on word‑of‑mouth and prior personal contact and that the department is mindful of verification to avoid people who falsely claim speaker status.

Peyton declined to characterize some numerical totals beyond what he cited, noting staff are still gathering survey responses and that district‑level tallies will be shared when available. The committee did not take formal action on the report; Peyton said he would follow up with the councilors who requested copies of the survey instrument and district‑level results.

The committee’s next scheduled meeting was set for July 13 at 10:00 a.m.; no vote or policy action regarding the language program occurred at this session.