U of A Unveils New Campus Building Signs Featuring CRIT Languages
The U of A honored the Colorado River Indian Tribes (CRIT) on September 4 with the unveiling of four new monument signs featuring the four languages represented by CRIT: Chemehuevi, Navajo, Hopi, and Mohave. CRIT Chairwoman Amelia Flores joined members of the Tribal Council and university leaders for the celebration. WRRC Director Sharon B. Megdal attended the Forbes Building ceremony and introduced Chairwoman Flores. Remarks were also given by George Smith, dean of the College of Agriculture, Life, and Environmental Sciences.
This ceremony was part of the university’s Native Languages Campus Sign Initiative, which recognizes Indigenous languages and celebrates their place in the university community. Of the more than 200 buildings on campus, the Native Language Sign Initiative has developed a total of 19 new signs, including the four unveiled on September 4. Seventeen tribes from all over the country are now represented. The new signs serve as a visible expression of welcome and belonging for Indigenous students while recognizing the enduring partnership between the U of A and CRIT.