From an early age, Carlin Thompson understood the importance of learning one's ancestral language, especially in a changing world. "It was kind of frightening for a little boy trying to get into the new world," says Carlin. "Everybody spoke English," including many of the elders Carlin knew in his youth.

Today, Carlin and other Chickasaw elders are making strides in ensuring the language continues for future generations. "There's that hope of keeping it alive, and I think these new speakers will keep passing it down." Through a dedicated interest in learning Chickasaw Language and an abundance of resources that continue to improve, Carlin hopes children today will always have someone to talk to in their ancestral language.