Kawaiisu language event, May 20

Don't miss this rare opportunity to hear Luther Girado, the last fluent-speaking Kawaiisu Indian man, tell stories and engage in discussion in Nüwa, the language of the Tehachapi Indian people.

In an event co-sponsored by the Tehachapi Heritage League and the Kawaiisu Language and Cultural Center, Luther will be telling traditional Kawaiisu stories, with English interpretation provided. Luther will be joined by his daughter Julie Girado Turner, Jon Hammond, and others involved in the on-going project to save this highly endangered language.

This is a remarkable chance to experience a language that has been spoken in the Tehachapi area for more than 3,000 years, from Luther, a man who didn't learn English until he started school in the Twin Oaks area of Kern County in the 1950s.

The storytelling session will be held on Sunday, May 20 from 2 to 4 p.m. at downtown Tehachapi's beautiful and historic BeeKay Theatre. During the intermission, audience members will have the chance to sample food made with traditional ingredients, including acorn, chia and elderberries.

Older children are invited to attend this event to hear firsthand the stories that have been told to Tehachapi children for centuries. Seating is limited and this event is likely to sell out, so those interested are encouraged to purchase tickets promptly. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children. Tickets can be purchased at the Tehachapi Museum during open hours of 12 to 4 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. For credit card purchases by phone, leave a message at (661) 822-8152.