Learning our Worlds through Language - A Conversation with Kevin Belin

Something we often forget is how powerfully language shapes how we view each other and the world and how we interact as part of it. For that reason, it is a key part of how we help young people to understand their experiences, Both as a means of relating and communicating and as a set of skills that they acquire. This week it is a huge privilege to be able to welcome Kevin Belin onto the podcast who is the Director of the Diné Bizaad Institute and Navajo Language teacher at Navajo Preparatory School, in Navajo Nation in what is now known as the United States. Kevin is also owner of Hashké – Hozhó Design and Collaborative.  Tódích’íinii nilį́įgo, Tł’ógí yashchíín, Ta’neeszhahnii dah bicheii, Chishí dah binálí. He is currently serving as Board member for Saad Kidilyé Language nest in Albuquerque. He also served as Adjunct Instructor with Diné College Navajo Cultural Arts Program.  Kevin has been in the education field for over decade working with fellow teachers, consultants, and language instructors to perpetuate the Navajo Language and Culture through curriculum building, trainings, and presentations. Throughout the year, Kevin is consulted to work with youth and demonstrate hands on workshops in historical and cultural knowledge. “I don’t consider myself an expert, but I am the bridge that connects the knowledge banks that come from our elders, to the young and discouraged learners, using modern approaches to language learning and scaffolded instruction, to understanding the complex concepts of Sa’ah Naaghei Bik’eh Hozho.”  Kevin has been featured on Native America Calling, American Indian Republic, 21st Century Native leaders podcast and Indian Country Today as a cultural representative and is a Billy Mill’s Running Strong Dreamstarter.  “Teaching the Navajo Language to our young leaders and helping them understand the complexity that is the Diné way of life is a lifelong endeavor” (Kevin Belin).