April 04, 2012

10th annual Oklahoma language fair

American Indian students perform during Oklahoma Native American Youth Language Fair

About 600 students representing more than 20 tribes shared their language and creative arts skills during the Oklahoma Native American Youth Language Fair in Norman.

By Ashley West
Young American Indians representing more than 20 tribes gathered at the Sam Noble Museum of Natural History this week for the 10th annual Oklahoma Native American Youth Language Fair.

American Indian communities place a high value on culture, oratory skills and creativity through expression, and the fair provides a venue for young people to share the knowledge of their ancestors and speak their native languages publicly.

During the fair Monday and Tuesday, participants submitted their works and displayed their talents before a panel of judges. About 600 performers came this year.

The fair also provides students with peer support and new ideas for language learning, organizers said.