nOnzAk'@bE

The Yuchi (also spelled Euchee) are the keepers of a unique language now spoken fluently by only a handful of elders. Yuchi people were forced from eastern homelands to Oklahoma on the so-called Trail of Tears. Despite these hardships and the lack of a land base, the Yuchi community continues to maintain its distinctive identity, cultural and social institutions, including ceremonies, medicinal knowledge, and unwritten histories, through the Yuchi language. Linguists identify Yuchi as a language isolate, unrelated to any other language. This means it is one of the world’s most ancient and richest languages, carrying eons of tradition, history and a unique perspective on the world.

The Yuchi House in Sapulpa, Oklahoma has become a home for the language where Yuchi people ages 3 months to 95 years come together every day to live in the language and embrace yUdjEhalA, the Yuchi way. Our community-based program started in 1996 and has created 16 second-language speakers who are competent to teach the language. Yuchi Language Project (YLP) serves the entire Yuchi community through language classes for all ages, culture camps, master-apprentice sessions, curriculum development, and by providing a wide range of opportunities for youth. The Yuchi elders and cultural values guide the collective work of the YLP.

yUdjEha KAnAnô, yUdjEhalA nÔ'wAdA

We are Yuchi, we speak Yuchi

Our Mission

To keep alive the rich heritage of the Yuchi people by creating new young speakers of our unique language through breath-to-breath immersion methods with fluent elders and children.

Our Mission

To keep alive the rich heritage of the Yuchi people by creating new young speakers of our unique language through breath-to-breath immersion methods with fluent elders and children.

Our Board

Our Vision

Restore the vitality of the Yuchi language in our homes, ceremonies, churches, and create a sustainable language community where the fullness of the Yuchi worldview can thrive for future generations