NIEA 2026 | Buffalo, New York

National Language Summit

Advancing the Future of Native Language Education

Tuesday, October 6, 2026
Buffalo Niagara Convention Center
Buffalo, New York

About the Summit

The National Indian Education Association and the National Fund for Excellence in American Indian Education invite you to the National Language Summit, a one-of-a-kind gathering dedicated to strengthening the future of Native language education across Indian Country.

Spend the day alongside Native language advocates, educators, Tribal leaders, and community experts working to revitalize, reclaim, and sustain their languages.

Through interactive sessions and focused conversations, participants will share what is working, exchange ideas, strengthen connections, and build upon the momentum of Native language work happening across Indian Country.

Whether you teach Native language, lead within your community, support language programs, or help shape policy, you will leave with new ideas, meaningful connections, and renewed energy for the work ahead.

Who Should Attend?

Native language educators and immersion teachers
Tribal leaders and community advocates
Early childhood and language nest professionals
K-12 and higher education representatives
Language program directors and staff
Students and emerging language leaders
Policy, funding, and sustainability partners
Organizations supporting Native language education

Communities at every stage of language programming are encouraged to participate, from those beginning to plan a program to those operating established immersion and community-based revitalization initiatives.

Summit Tracks

Participants will have opportunities to connect with colleagues doing similar work through four focused tracks.

Early Childhood and Language Nests

K-12 Schools and Immersion

Community-Based Revitalization

Policy, Funding, and Sustainability

Registration Is Free

Space is limited. Register today to reserve your place at the National Language Summit.

Questions?

Contact Roo George-Warren, Language Program Coordinator for the National Fund for Excellence in American Indian Education, at dgeorgewarren@nfeaie.org.