As a former educator, I have witnessed how the quality of education shapes our youth and our community. By holding this legislative summit, N-I-E-A is taking a necessary step and leadership role in addressing the preservation of Native American languages. We must invest in the preservation of Native languages because as Americans, it is our responsibility to perpetuate that which has shaped our collective identity and history.

In order to ensure that all Native youth have the opportunity to develop their Native language skills, the Federal government needs to play a larger role with regard to funding and supporting these programs. In April, I introduced S. 2674, the Native American Languages Act Amendments Act of 2006. This legislation would provide for the support of Native American language schools by establishing at least four demonstration programs in geographically diverse locations to provide assistance to Native American Language Nests and Survival Schools. Language Nests and Survival Schools provide instruction of a Native American language for the youngest members of our community so that these languages can flourish. Many Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian communities face the possible extinction of their ancestral language. I continue to work with my colleagues on the Senate Indian Affairs Committee to favorably report S. 2674 out of Committee.

In my home state of Hawaii, Native Hawaiian Language Immersion schools are achieving great success. Two fine examples are here today. Both graduated from Na-wahi-o-kalani-opu‘u Hawaiian immersion school located in Kea‘au, Hawaii. Ku‘uwehi Hiraishi recently graduated from Seattle University and Holo Ho‘opai is a senior at Standford University. These students are steeped in not only the language, traditions, and knowledge of their ancestors, but are also empowered and equipped with the tools to combat contemporary challenges that confront our communities.

Your presence today serves as a reminder of the collective challenges Native communities face.

As you participate in this week’s summit I encourage you to build upon the foundations of success and support partnerships that link the young and elderly to nurture a sense of cultural identity and community through native languages. Language sustains our customs and traditions that have guided our people for centuries.

It is an honor to work with you to improve the lives of all native peoples–thank you for allowing me to join you in this effort. Mahalo.