Jason Xu
Endangered languages
Documenting what remains — and working to bring languages back.
Manchu
The Manchu people originated from the Jianzhou Jurchens and later absorbed other Tungusic and Mongolic tribes like the Sibe, Daur, and Evenki into their ranks as 'New Manchus' under the Qing dynasty. Historically divided into regional groups — Jianzhou, Haixi, and Haidong — only the first two formed the core of the Manchu identity.
Umatilla
Umatilla is a severely endangered variety of Southern Sahaptin, traditionally spoken by the Umatilla people in Oregon and Washington. Revitalization efforts include immersion schools, community classes, and a comprehensive dictionary to support new speakers.
As a tribal linguist at CTUIR, much of my day is language work: recording speakers, building dictionaries, and supporting learners. The Umatilla language program publishes classes, video, and a living dictionary.
