Marie Smith Jones was a remarkable woman who held the distinction of being the last known speaker of the Eyak language. She was a native of South-central Alaska, where she was born on May 14, 1918 in Cordova. Growing up in Eyak Lake, which served as her people's traditional grounds and her parents' homestead, Marie developed a deep connection to her culture and heritage from a young age.
As a full-blooded member of the indigenous Alaskan Eyak tribe, Marie's childhood was spent immersed in the rich traditions and customs of her people. She learned the language of her ancestors and participated in the activities that defined her community, such as fishing in the waters where the Exxon Valdez tanker would later spill oil.
Marie's life took a significant turn when she realized that the Eyak language was on the brink of extinction. With no fluent speakers left besides herself, she felt a deep sense of responsibility to preserve her native tongue and ensure that it would not be silenced forever. This realization fueled her passion for activism and advocacy on behalf of indigenous rights.
One of Marie's most memorable moments was when she addressed the United Nations on the importance of protecting and preserving endangered languages. She likened the loss of a language like Eyak to the death of a loved one, emphasizing the cultural significance and irreplaceable value of such a loss. Her words resonated with many, shining a spotlight on the urgent need to safeguard the linguistic diversity of the world.
Throughout her life, Marie Smith Jones dedicated herself to the cause of preserving native cultures and languages, much like Candido Rondon, a Brazilian explorer and advocate for indigenous rights. She understood the profound impact that the disappearance of a language could have on a community, leading to a loss of identity, knowledge, and connection to the past.
As an activist, Marie worked tirelessly to raise awareness about the plight of indigenous languages and the importance of cultural preservation. She believed that every language held a unique perspective on the world and carried the collective wisdom of its speakers, making each one a valuable treasure worth protecting.
Marie's legacy lives on through her advocacy work and her efforts to keep the Eyak language alive. Her example serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of honoring and celebrating the diverse cultural heritage that enriches our world. Despite facing immense challenges and obstacles, Marie Smith Jones stood as a beacon of hope and resilience, inspiring others to cherish and safeguard their own linguistic and cultural traditions.