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What Are Languages 4? | Volume 17


July 26th, 2024


Dear, Tim,


Welcome to our quarterly newsletter, where we explore the vital intersection of sustainability and Indigenous language preservation. At Languages 4, we believe that nurturing ancestral languages goes hand-in-hand with fostering a sustainable future for communities. This issue celebrates sustainable practices within Indigenous cultures and highlights how these principles are integrated into education and language revitalization projects.


Featured Stories: Sustainability in Practice


  • Restoring Reciprocity in Hawaiian Fishing Practices:
  • Location: Ha‘ena, Kaua‘i, Hawaii
  • Focus: Traditional fishing practices based on reciprocity and sharing
  • Impact: Enhanced fish species abundance due to regulations based on ancestral norms
  • Xaxli’p Community Forest Management:
  • Location: Xaxli’p, British Columbia
  • Focus: Sustainable forest management integrating traditional knowledge
  • Impact: Increased community control and sustainable benefits
  • Revitalizing Kwetlal Cultivation:
  • Location: Lekwungen (Victoria, Canada)
  • Focus: Reviving traditional kwetlal (camas) cultivation
  • Impact: Restoring and revitalizing a crucial part of Lekwungen culture


An extra story from the past to celebrate the Ojibwe and Lakota efforts!

Star Wars Day and Diné Dub:

  • Event: The recent efforts for the Ojibwe and Lakota languages.
  • Project: Navajo-language dub of "A New Hope"
  • Impact: Highlighting language sovereignty and representation in popular culture

We hope you find inspiration in these stories and join us in celebrating the resilience and strength of Indigenous cultures. Together, we can continue supporting their language and leadership endeavors, ensuring they thrive for future generations. May the Fourth be with you! ✊✨


With respect and gratitude,


The Languages 4™ Team

Languages 4 | Revitalizing Hawaiian Culture: Sustainable Fishing Practices in Ha'ena, Kaua'i

Explore how native Hawaiian fishing practices in Ha'ena, Kaua'i, sustain communities, preserve culture, and support language revitalization.

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Languages 4 | Reviving Xaxli'p Forests: Traditional Practices Sustain Culture & Ecology

Explore how the Xaxli'p First Nation revitalizes forest management to sustain cultural and ecological heritage through traditional practices and language preservation.

Read More

Languages 4 | Reviving Lekwungen Kwetlal: Traditional Agriculture & Cultural Heritage

Explore how the Lekwungen people revive traditional kwetlal cultivation, sustaining cultural heritage and ecosystem health through community-driven initiatives.

Read More

Languages 4 | Celebrating Star Wars Day with the Diné Dub: Preserving Indigenous Language and Culture

On Star Wars Day, Languages 4 highlights the groundbreaking Navajo-language dub of 'A New Hope,' celebrating the resilience of Indigenous cultures and their unique place in the Star Wars universe

Read More

Founder's Corner | A Message from Tim O'Hagan


Welcome, Leaders and Language Advocates,


As we welcome another edition of the Languages 4 Sustainability Newsletter, I am excited to share inspiring stories of resilience, innovation, and cultural revival within Indigenous communities.


First, I want to highlight the revival of traditional Hawaiian fishing practices in Ha‘ena, Kaua‘i. The local communities have shown how deeply rooted practices of reciprocity and caretaking can lead to sustainable environmental stewardship and enhanced fish species abundance. As one with a familial connection to Hawaii and its people, this is exciting and personal!


Next, we turn our attention to the Xaxli’p community in British Columbia. Through their community-driven forest management and integration of traditional knowledge into modern techniques, they have reclaimed control over their ancestral lands, ensuring that future generations enjoy the benefits of sustainable practices.


In Lekwungen territory, the revival of kwetlal (camas) cultivation stands as a testament to the power of traditional agricultural practices. This initiative not only restores an essential part of their culture but also reinforces the critical connection between land, language, and identity.


Lastly, I am thrilled to revisit the incredible project of the Navajo-language dub of "Star Wars: A New Hope." This initiative bridges cultural gaps, celebrates Navajo heritage, and showcases the importance of representation in popular media. While I realize it is a repeat of our May edition, it is worth additional attention with the recent dubbing into Lakota and Ojibwe. I know a voice from the Ojibwe, and I can't wait to hear it in action!!


At Languages 4, we are committed to supporting these vital efforts in language reclamation and cultural preservation. By fostering strong cultural identities, we contribute to building healthier, more resilient communities.


Thank you for your enthusiastic support and engagement. Together, we are working to build a stronger language future!


Pidamaya (Thank you, in Dakota),


Tim O'Hagan

Founder, Languages 4


480-304-1378

tim@languages4.com

Languages 4 

3901 E. Hiddenview Dr.,

Phoenix, AZ 85048

+1 480-304-1378

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There has been a big push to dub Star Wars into multiple Indigenous Languages. Interested?
Yes, I'd love it in my language
No, Star Wars isn't my cup of tea
A different movie would be great!