Logistics
Language
The Yu'pik speak several distinct languages-based on diverse dialects-depending on their location. The languages differ enough that different speakers cannot understand each other directly, although they may understand the general idea of a conversation in another of the languages.
In the 19th centuries, Yu'pik was written using the Latin alphabet. Today, most Yu'pik who can write tend to use Russian letters.
Only about 800 speak Yu'pik with any fluency today. Most speak Central Yu'pik and are also fluent in Chukchi and Russian.
The language of the Chukchi people is called Luoravet and has five dialects. Writingwas introduced in 1931, first on the basis of the Roman alphabet and then, since 1936, has been based on the Russian alphabet. While many modern residents can speak Chukchi fluently (approximately 10,400 people), common use of this language continues to decrease.
Although almost all Chukchis over the age of 30 can speak their native language, the youngest generation-educated in Soviet boarding schools-are almost 100% literate and fluent in Russian and have, at best, only a very basic knowledge of the language. Chukchi now understandably worry about their language being lost.
But things seem to be changing: the number of schools offering classes in the Chukchi language is growing. Books, newspapers, and fairytales for children are being published in the Chukchi language, and it is often heard on the local radio or in television broadcasts.
Source and image: courtesy of http://www.chukotka.org
