Southwest Indians: Language

Who identify themselves as American Indian or Alaska Native alone (and who are over 5 years of age), over 70 percent say they speak only English at home. A Native North American language is spoken in the homes of nearly 15 percent. Roughly two-thirds of homes where a Native language is spoken are located in New Mexico, Arizona and Alaska, so it is not surprising that the most commonly spoken Native language is Navajo

For the Indian peoples, tribal languages are important for keeping a strong sense of self-worth, community identity and for keeping their culture strong