Bring the language back to textbook

MARKSVILLE, Louisiana – The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana has worked for years to revitalize the Tunica language and is now turning to the Biloxi language with the same goal.

“This is a way for us to revive the old traditions… the language and also the culture,” said John Barbry, development and program director for the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe in Louisiana.

The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana consists of two merged native tribes.

“We have focused more on the Tunica language, but are gradually introducing Biloxi,” Barbry said.

One of these small contributions is a coloring book in the Biloxi language, created in collaboration with the Louisiana Wildlife Federation.

“We can’t think of anything more important than working with our Native American tribes to bring Louisiana’s first languages ​​and stories to life,” said Jimmy Frederick, communications director for the Louisiana Wildlife Federation.

The stories are about animals native to Louisiana.

“This book has 64 pages. 59 of them are actually animal pictures and animals, and the rest is a little bit of information, including an index and a pronunciation guide and an educator’s guide,” Frederick said.

According to Frederick, the book meets Louisiana educational standards and can be used as a teaching tool for young tribal members as well as anyone else who is interested in learning.

“We are open to the public so they can learn about our culture and our languages. This way we can connect with the larger community and also with our tribal community,” Barbry said.

You can pick up a copy of the coloring book at the Tunica-Biloxi Museum gift shop at 150 Melacon Rd. in Marksville, or you can download a digital version of the book here.