Let Us Fill The Air With Our Language!

The Haayk Foundation is a nonprofit organization located in Metlakatla, Alaska, whose primary goal is to save Sm'algya̱x, the endangered language of the Tsimshian people by creating a new generation of fluent speakers.
Our funding comes from private donors and independent fundraising efforts.Those funds go toward providing a range of cultural and educational activities, including free Sm'algya̱x language classes, talking circles, community events and assisting other learners who share our goals.

Our inspiration comes from the pioneers of the Metlakatla on Annette Island, Alaska who set aside their differences, pulled together, and against many hardships and setbacks, succeeded in creating a new Ts'msyen community in Alaska. We will continue that pioneering spirit in an effort to preserve, revitalize, and promote our tribe's language, cultural history, and practices so that the “Haayk”, or “Spirit”, of the Tsimshian will shine brightly for generations to come.