To this end, a CHamoru Language Educators Consortium was convened to research, discuss, and propose such a platform for reversing this catastrophic linguistic trend in our trajectory as the Taotao Tåno’ spurred by Legislative Resolution No. 69-73 (COR) introduced by Speaker Therese M. Terlaje and Senator Chris Barnett. The Consortium was charged with recommending “…how the full development of CHamoru Language education and instruction in Guam can be supported by each of these (participating Consortium stakeholders) government and private entities.”
The Consortium has met on a monthly basis since its inception in the Fall of 2022 and in a two-day Planning Retreat on October 17 & 18, 2023 to clearly articulate the vision, mission, and philosophy of a viable structure for implementing a coordinated, sustainable CHamoru Medium Education strategy for Guam.
The Consortium is made up of individuals working towards the perpetuation of the CHamoru language and culture. The Consortium committee members are:
Anna Marie B. Arceo
Ma’ina Diego
GDOE Faneyåkan Sinipok, CHamoru Studies Division
Jimmy S. Teria
GCC, Nina’fitme Fina’nå’guen Fino’ CHamoru Program, English Department
Simone Bollinger
UOG, CHamoru Studies Program
Dr. Kisha Borja-Quichocho Calvo
Kumisión i Fino’ CHamoru yan i Fina’nå’guen i Historia yan i Lina’la’ i Taotao Tåno’
Dr. Laura M. Torres Souder
Members proposed the establishment of a Public Foundation, Inetnon i Fina’nå’guen yan Ineyak i Fino’ CHamoru as the most viable organizational structure to institutionalize CHamoru Medium Education. This proposal was submitted to Speaker Terlaje of the 37th Guam Legislature for consideration and legislation. No legislative action has been taken todate.