Revitalizing Indigenous languages — one keystroke at a time. 🖥️
Nearly 200 Cherokee Syllabary keyboards have been distributed to first-language Cherokee speakers and language learners, strengthening ongoing efforts to sustain and revitalize the Cherokee language. Many are now in use at the Durbin Feeling Language Center, supporting educators, translators, immersion school teachers, curriculum developers, and language department staff in their daily work.
Created and donated by software engineer W. Alex Ronke, the keyboards are designed specifically for the Cherokee Syllabary. They feature improved compatibility with Mac devices, custom fonts to support syllabary recognition, and Cherokee numerals. English letters and numerals are intentionally limited to encourage a more immersive Cherokee-language environment in classrooms and everyday use.
The keyboards also incorporate traditional Cherokee artwork by artist Jeff Edwards, blending technology with cultural expression. By prioritiz...
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