The Mayan Languages Preservation and Digitization Project (MLPP) began in 2023.
Its goal is to keep around 20 Mayan languages alive in daily life.
This is not a top-down project run by universities or governments. It is built by Mayan speakers, for Mayan speakers.
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Free digital glossaries for everyday use
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Android keyboards for typing in Mayan languages
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Tools to communicate online and offline in native languages
Why It Works
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Designed by community members who know the needs
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Simple tools anyone can use without technical training
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No expensive licenses or restrictions
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Focused on practical use, not just academic archives
A Model for Others
MLPP follows a clear step-by-step process that other language groups can copy. This approach helps any community protect and use its language in modern life.
Why This Matters for You
If your language is at risk, you can learn from MLPP’s method.
Ask yourself:
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What tools would make it easier for your people to write and speak in your language every day?
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Who in your community can lead the effort?
By creating tools the community owns, you make sure the language stays in real use, not just in books.
