What is the Language Department?

The primary objective of the CATG Language Department is to foster the encouragement, promotion, sharing, and documentation of Indigenous languages within the CATG region, explicitly focusing on Dinjii Zhuh K’yaa, Gwich’in, and Denaakk’e (Upper Koyukon).

Juk drin jii kwaii enjit hai' nihdhan - Our way of life
Take good care of yourself - Upper Koyukon
Gwich'in language phrase

Language Resources

The CATG Language Department has developed an extensive collection of language learning materials in both Gwich’in and Upper Koyukon Athabascan. Resources are available for learners of all ages and include a variety of formats.

Gwich’in (Dinjii Zhuh K’yaa)

Over 130 resources are available for Gwich’in language learners, including:

  • Conversational Media — Everyday phrases and dialogues such as greetings, weather conversations, family terms, and daily activities
  • Phrase Media — Individual phrases for seasons, months, affirmations, and cultural expressions
  • Posters — Educational posters covering topics like animals, berries, colors, fish, self-care tips, and positive affirmations
  • Coloring Pages & Activity Books — Learning materials for younger learners including butterflies, dragonflies, berries, and seasonal themes
  • Videos — Book readings and counting videos for Early Head Start learners

Sources include the CATG Language Department and the Gwich’in Heritage Project (Yukon Gwich’in Steering Committee).

Gwich'in language learning - How is the weather today?
Dinjii Zhuh K'yaa shats'a' ginkhii! — Speak our language to me.

Upper Koyukon (Denaakk’e)

Over 70 resources are available for Upper Koyukon language learners, including:

  • Conversational Media — Dialogues covering greetings, activities, family relationships, animals, and food
  • Phrase Media — Phrases for months, weather, emotions, and daily life
  • Language Posters — Moose identification, colors, and other visual learning aids
  • Activity Books & Coloring Pages — Numbers, days of the week, seasons, colors, berries, and dragonflies
  • Body Parts & School Readiness — Posters and phrases to support younger learners
Upper Koyukon language resource

How to Access Resources

For information about available language resources or to request materials, please contact the Language Department:

Council of Athabascan Tribal Governments Language Department Email: Language@CATG.org