As indigenous languages around the world face the risk of extinction, the Chickasaw Nation encourages citizens to connect with this part of the ongoing Chickasaw story. "We're really at a turning point moment for the revitalization of indigenous languages," explains Dr. Shannon Speed. "We're so fortunate in the Chickasaw Nation to have the resources that we have available to us for language learning."

Chickasaw Nation Department of Language programs like Dr. Speed's online Chickasaw class are vital for preserving language and culture. Students of all ages, levels of education and locations meet virtually to complete Rosetta Stone lessons with Dr. Speed. "I think (Chickasaw Rosetta Stone) is very effective ... doing it as a community group class really adds something to it," Dr. Speed says. By working through the program together, students ask questions and practice what they learn in ways that can’t be replicated through individual study.

2022-2032 is the Decade of the Chickasaw Language, and Dr. Speed is hopeful about what that means for the future of Chickasaw. "I would love to see us in 10 years with speakers who have come through the immersion programs, who are speaking in Chickasaw in the home. I would love to see all of our citizens be able to exchange greetings in Chickasaw, say something, talk to each other in our language." At this turning point in language revitalization, visit Chickasaw.net to see the full list of resources and programs available to all Chickasaw citizens. "Our culture and language are the heart of our sovereignty, and we don't want to lose them," says Dr. Speed.