Passamaquoddy Language and Cultural Revitalization Initiative - The Passamaquoddy Language and Cultural Revitalization Initiative is a three-year project by the Passamaquoddy Tribe at Pleasant Point (Sipayik) that builds upon previous language preservation work, including their dictionary creation, digital language portal, and collection of over 18,000 audio recordings. The project aims to establish an immersion education model at the Sipayik Museum and Youth Center, serving both children (ages 18 months to 12 years) and adults through structured language instruction. The initiative will train and certify at least three new language instructors and develop a custom mobile app to support ongoing learning. The project includes creating and distributing ten culturally relevant learning materials, organizing seasonal immersion camps, and hosting community workshops. By the end of the three-year period, approximately 100 children and 100 adults will receive over 100 hours of annual instruction, with progress measured through oral proficiency assessments. The initiative represents a shift from preservation to active daily use of the Passamaquoddy language, ensuring its continued vitality for future generations. The total project cost is $316,529.79, combining federal funding with tribal contributions to create a sustainable, community-based language program.
