Tool of the Future Preserves the Past

Broadband is breathing new life into ancient Alaskan heritage. Right now, it’s estimated that there are only about 15 -fluent speakers of the Alutiiq language left in the world. But, thanks to high-speed Internet and a new online course, the language is being taught to new generations of Alaskans and others with an interest around the globe. The course is funded by the Afognak Native Corporation, Koniag, and the Alutiiq Museum that teaches the language. Native elders were recorded reading, singing songs, and teaching words and pronunciations. Cultural preservation is just one of the many benefits of Connect Alaska’s work of spreading better...