Belfast was the first town in Maine to replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples Day in 2015. Just this month, in unanimous decisions, Bangor and Portland joined Orono and Brunswick in making this important correction in what we choose to celebrate, according to a news release from organizers.

In so many ways, language is inextricably linked to tribal culture, and these vital links were severed almost irreparably. Yet throughout the long decades and centuries of cultural sabotage, somehow the torch of preservation has been passed along, and impressed upon each new generation.

Against all odds and naysayers, Indigenous linguists and teachers in Maine are engaged in an heroic mission: creating access to the knowledge of fluent elders before they pass from this life, and expanding and digitizing this knowledge base in ways that can nourish coming generations.

On Monday, October 9, at 4 p.m., the Belfast Free Library will host three Indigenous speakers in a Panel Discussion on Native Language Revitalization, who will offer their perspectives on the challenges and significance of preserving language.

Carol Dana (Penobscot), a revered guardian of her Nation's language, is currently at work on a bilingual edition of Transformer Tales (the creation stories and guides to honorable living that were once passed down orally from Newell Lyons), as well as an updated and expanded Penobscot dictionary.

Newell Lewey (Passamaquoddy) has taught the Passamaquoddy language in the Princeton school system, and is currently attending M.I.T. in pursuit of a master’s in linguistics with a focus on indigenous languages.

Roger Paul (Passamaquoddy) works as a teacher with the Penobscot Nation and the University of Maine at Orono.

Join the panel discussion October 9 to obsere the continuing development of indigenous languages in Maine. Our panelists will share sounds and meanings that better connect us to the earth and to each other.

Admission is free, but donations will be gratefully accepted to benefit a campaign is currently underway to support the teaching of Passamaquoddy language at the secondary school level in Washington County. Or contribute online at https://www.crowdrise.com/high-school-level-passamaquoddy-language-and-culture-classes.