An Algonkian Children's Book
for Ages 2 to 7
ABOUT
Awán Na?
Awán Na? is a wonderfully illustrated book for children ages two to seven years of age. It was written in the Y dialect of the Algonkian language in efforts to facilitate the revitalization of the Mohegan/Montauk vernacular. This book presents the Algonkian names of animals and the concept of animacy. Though Awán Na? adheres mostly to how animals appear realistically in nature, Illustrators Silver Rose and Burning Sage took some artistic liberties in bringing the animals in Awán Na? to life in a way that is fun, engaging and exciting for young readers. Awán Na? is a reflection of the beautiful cultures and traditions of Northeastern Woodland indigenous peoples and the rhythms and sounds of nature. Parents will find that sharing Awán Na? with their children is a great way to learn Algonkian while helping their little ones master both the Algonkian and English names of animals.
Gift a Copy of Awán Na? to a Child this Holiday Season!
There will be many children who will spend this upcoming holiday season on a pediatric ward because they are too sick to enjoy the holidays at home with their families. Thus, we are asking you to help us bring a little bit of cheer to them by gifting a copy of Awán Na?
Our Projects
Three Sisters Algonkian Language Class
Algonkian Language Revitalization
During the Colonial Period, in what is now referred to as North America, many Indigenous peoples were forced to not only abandon their ancestral lands, cultures and traditions, but also their languages. However, in 1990, Public Law 101-477 repudiated past policies of eradicating Indian Languages by declaring as policy that Native Americans were entitled to use their own languages.
Three Sisters Algonkian Language Class
The World Alliance of Indigenous Peoples has developed The Three Sisters Algonkian Language Class to assist Northeastern Woodland Indians in revitalizing their Native Tongues. Classes are held online and culminate in The Three Sisters Native American Festival and Summit. Students are invited to share their learning experiences during a panel discussion, as well as converse with one another in Algonkian. This event, which honors many Indigenous Cultures and Peoples of Turtle Island, is rich and authentic. We hope that you will join us this fall for Three Sisters Native American Festival and Summit. The date and time for this event will be announced in August.
Testimonials
Working with Sadanyah Flowing Water in Montauk language lessons has thoroughly enhanced, even changed, my outlook on the world. This sounds like an exaggeration, but when we step into another language use, we step into a different philosophy -- a different relationship with our surroundings. For example, it has been such a joy to realize that in Montauk the language for what is "alive" is not as limited as in the English language. What has agency, what has spirit, is not limited to humans, animals, etc. but includes so much more. Working within this philosophy has brought about a greater awareness in my daily life and helps me feel spiritually connected; it allows increased decentering and consideration for others. Through Montauk language revitalization, I have met kin. Cousins who have been drawn to the same specific indigenous connection. It is also so incredibly special that Sadanyah Flowing Water does not teach in a close minded or hierarchical way (ie. focusing only on Montauk or Algonquin language speaking as indigenous) but celebrates the indigenous across regions including outside of Turtle Island. Because we all come from different backgrounds and North Eastern Woodland tribal groups have long worked in tandem with groups indigenous to further soils, this consideration for worldwide indigenous people feels rich and heartwarming. Táput ni, Sadanyah Flowing Water and Montauk Tribe of Indians.
Mus Kunáwush. -- Katherine Collison Halcrow
I enrolled in the Montauk language classes because learning the language is an important way for me to connect with my family’s heritage and better understand my ancestors. As someone with Montauk roots, I wanted to learn more about the language, history, and traditions that have been passed down through generations. These classes have given me an opportunity to strengthen that connection and help preserve an important part of our culture.
What I have enjoyed most is learning not only the language itself but also the stories, values, and cultural traditions that are woven into it. Every lesson has helped me appreciate how language reflects the history, identity, and worldview of the Montauk people. It has also given me a greater appreciation for the resilience of Indigenous communities and their efforts to revitalize and preserve their languages.
The classes have greatly expanded my understanding of Indigenous language and culture. I have come to realize that language is much more than a way to communicate it carries history, knowledge, traditions, and a unique way of seeing the world. Learning the Mohegan language has made my connection to my heritage more meaningful and has inspired me to continue learning.
I would highly recommend these classes to others, whether they have Mohegan ancestry or simply want to learn about Indigenous cultures. The instructor created a welcoming environment, and the classes provide valuable insight into the language, history, and traditions of the Montauk people. Participating in these classes is a meaningful way to support the preservation of an Indigenous language while gaining a deeper appreciation for the richness of Native culture.
Brian Honeyfield