"Congratulations to Jessie Little Doe Baird for receiving a MacArthur Foundation “genius grant” of $500,000 to revive the Wampanoag language of her Native American ancestors.

Each language has its own unique richness of meaning and sound, and so it’s admirable to try to keep them alive in some way.

That’s what Ms. Baird, of Mashpee, seeks to do via the Wompanaak (another spelling of the tribe’s name) Language Reclamation Project. Just think of the beauty of the many colorful Wampanoag place names in southeastern New England. (And there’s nary a word about casinos!)

Still, one can get unduly romantic about these things. Languages can separate people as well as enrich their lives through sound and sense. Indeed, language differences can solidify ethnic and religious divisions to such an extent that violence ensues.

One of the greatest strengths of America is that we have a vast, supple, absorbent language called English to unite us, whatever our ethnic, political and religious backgrounds. It’s the ultimate mongrel tongue, which makes it so adaptable and strong through the years. It encourages innovation."

Get the Story:
Editorial: Gift of language (The Providence Journal 10/17)

Related Stories:
Wampanoag linguist celebrates receipt of $500K 'genius' award (10/1)
Editorial: 'Genius' recipient returns Wampanoag language to life (9/30)
Mashpee Wampanoag linguist receives MacArthur 'genius grant' (9/28)