Chaco Languages

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The indigenous languages that are spoken in Argentina count among the least known and studied in South America. The objective of this project is to document four indigenous languages spoken in the Chaco region of Argentina. It aims to collect, process, and archive cultural and linguistic data on the Mocoví (Guaycurú), Tapiete (Tupí-Guaraní), Vilela (Lule-Vilela) and Wichí (Mataco-Mataguayo) in the form of lexicons; integrated, computerized, and digitalized texts; ethnographic descriptions; and video documentaries.

The selection of the languages and the objectives stated in our project are based on the following factors:

• The degree of endangerment of the language,
• The quantity and kind of existent documentation,
• The commitment of the speakers to the future of their languages,
• The role that language plays in the culture.

This is a linguistic research project that incorporates developments in anthropology. In this way, we take the theoretical and linguistic perspective of field linguistics, highlighting the relevance of data collection in situ, as well as the description of linguistic phenomena in their production contexts.

The documentation activities are conducted by an interdisciplinary team comprised of linguists, anthropologists, and media experts, together with the active participation of the communities.

Expected results:

• The production of lexicons and grammatical descriptions,
• The publication of texts,
• The production of linguistic, ethnographic, and historical documents about the peoples under study,
• The production of videos,
• The production of didactic material,
• The production of CDs of music collected in the field,
• Workshops to teach the language, video, and art targeting the members of the communities,
• Training of indigenous and non-indigenous research assistants.