The Abáachi mizaa méoch’oosii’e (Jicarilla language program) was restarted in May of 2026 and is part of the Jicarilla Apache Department of Education (JADE).
Our goal is to make Abáachi Mizaa more accessible to our people and to support community-driven language revitalization efforts. We do this through language documentation and learning projects, practical use materials, community classes, and training opportunities. We also aim to provide resources that help our Jicarilla people feel more connected to our language, culture, and way of life.
We recognize the lasting impacts of colonial systems and missionaries that have contributed to the disruption of our language, culture, and traditional ways of knowing and being. Because of this, our work is guided by the community and focuses on strengthening and restoring Abáachi Mizaa.
The Jicarilla worldview is deeply rooted in our language. Through it, we gain a unique understanding of our relationships with the land, our community, and one another. These teachings and values offer a beautiful and meaningful way of understanding the world around us. By preserving and revitalizing our language, we honor our ancestors and help ensure that future generations can continue to carry these teachings forward.