Deg Xinag is the Dene (Athabascan) language of the Deg Xit’an people and is traditionally spoken in the Alaska communities of Xeyeghelinghdi (Grayling), Gitr’ingith Chagg (Anvik), Łegg Jitno (Shageluk), and Deloy Chet (Holy Cross). The language carries the teachings of Dinayetr (Our Belief System), connecting speakers to the values, stories, and cultural practices of the Deg Xit’an people.
Developed through the dedication of Elders, language bearers, and community members across Alaska, this course offers learners the opportunity to build conversational Deg Xinag while exploring songs, stories, pronunciation, and cultural teachings. The project honors the lasting contributions of the late Jim Dementi, whose lifelong commitment to the Deg Xinag language helped make this resource possible.