Navajo Language Renaissance

Navajo Language Renaissance (NLR)
Navajo Language Renaissance (NLR), an organization dedicated to the revitalization and preservation of the Navajo language using Rosetta Stone software, was incorporated in Arizona in August 2006. In September 2007, the organization was awarded 501(c)(3) tax exempt status by the IRS. All the members of the Board of Directors, except one, are Navajo and are fluent Navajo speakers, readers and writers; all are educators.

Since Rosetta Stone technology is so costly to produce, in December 2006, the Navajo Language Renaissance was allowed an opportunity to apply for a subsidized production of Rosetta Stone Navajo under the auspices of the Rosetta Stone Endangered Language Program. In the first quarter of 2007, out of twenty applications, Navajo was one of two endangered languages chosen to be produced at a greatly reduced price. In October 2007, with the recommendation of the Department of Diné Education and the endorsement of the Navajo Board of Education, Navajo Language Renaissance signed a contract with Rosetta Stone to produce Rosetta Stone Navajo Level 1. On April 16, 2008, NLR signed a contract with Rosetta Stone to produce Rosetta Stone Navajo Level 2. At present NLR translators and editors have completed Rosetta Stone Navajo Levels 1 and 2. The software includes over 400 photographs taken on the Navajo Nation in June 2009. Six Navajo men and women voicers completed the audio portion early in 2010.

Like other Rosetta Stone Endangered Language Program projects, Rosetta Stone Navajo is controlled by its funding organization. Since Navajo Language Renaissance controls the distributions and selling of Rosetta Stone Navajo, the profits go to the creation of Rosetta Stone Navajo Level 3, and the upkeep of the Navajo Language Renaissance offices. The NLR has Rosetta Stone Navajo available for use on CDs or online in homes, schools, libraries and Chapter Houses across the Navajo Nation, and teachers may monitor student progress in classes.

Links for NLR
NLR website

NLR Facebook