Copyright © 2001 NLThomas
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TAHLEQUAH, OK – The Cherokee Nation Early Childhood Unit will present its first “Sharing Our Cherokee Language” concert at 11 a.m., Wednesday, April 25, 2001, in the W.W. Keeler Tribal Complex Council Chambers.

The concert will feature Head Start, Early Head Start and Child Development Center children performing in the Cherokee language.

“This is just one of the many ways the Early Childhood Unit is promoting the Cherokee language,” said Sandra Turner, education specialist with emphasis on the Cherokee language and culture. “We hope to surprise the audience, and hope you’ll be there.”

Head Start, Early Head Start and Child Development Centers to perform will include the A-wi Early Head Start; Tsa-la-gi, Unahnti, Shady Grove, Lost City, Cherry Tree, Okay II and Lowrey Head Start Centers; Ju-na-ta-ni-da and Pre-School, Child Development Center; and Mayes County Early Head Start Home Base.

Dr. Dusty Delso, executive director for the Cherokee Nation Education Department, will be performing with the Unahnti Head Start class.

“The children are very excited about this field trip,” Turner said. “They love going out to sing songs to other people.”

The teachers have been working with the children, even those that don’t speak Cherokee. With visual aids and recorded tapes, the children have learned and are ready to perform.

“The teachers, whom most aren’t bilingual, may be a little nervous,” said Turner. “With the help of visual aids and recorded tapes, they (the teachers) have taught our children the Cherokee language.”

“The concert is open to anyone who would like to attend and listen to the children that have worked hard learning the Cherokee language,” said Turner.