In our vast mosaic of American diversity, the thread of heritage is dwindling for so many of us. What was once a tapestry of languages, traditions, and histories crumbles all into oblivion the longer the mono-cultural machine continues to run propped up by a Neo-liberal system. Because I am a third-generation American of Rusyn ancestry with a bit more life experience than most of you reading, it’s important as an elder to bring up a crucial topic. I remember the generation before us that had no idea of their background yet still spoke the language of their people. As we forge ahead into an increasingly globalized world, it is imperative that we establish programs for our youth to learn what was not taught to us. By the time they are adults they must be more refined in their Rusynness than we are.

Language, as a vessel for culture and heritage, plays the most critical role in preserving a community’s identity. Carpatho-Rusyn and Lemko depending on if you think the second as a dialect or language, is already a relic for us. It is at risk of becoming a relic forgotten to time unless we take proactive steps to safeguard it. Establishing Carpatho-Rusyn schools and across the Rusyn areas of the United States is the first step in this vital preservation effort of not only language but identity. It is important to everything that we want to do in the future.

First and foremost, these language schools would serve as centers of cultural vitality, fostering a deep sense of belonging among our children that does not come from others avenues. They would solve the problem of us not being able to get young people to participate. If we can’t get them to do things outside of school, we bring the school to them. Think about the multitude of Chinese, Korean, or Russian schools you see in major metros. Immersed in the language of their ancestors, these young learners would not only gain proficiency in Rusyn but also develop a profound appreciation for their heritage. They would come to understand the customs, traditions, and folklore that have shaped their community for centuries without the need for extracurricular activities.

Look at what the Ukrainians have done in Canada with their setup of organizations in every major city. If you go to Vancouver, Edmonton, or even Quebec you can see this in full effect where there is a chapter that is active. Look up the Ukrainian Canadian Congress on Google to understand how far behind we are in everything.

Rusyn language schools, like our dreaded Ukrainian neighbors with theirs, would serve as bridges to the ancestral homeland, connecting Rusyn-Americans to their roots in Eastern Europe. By nurturing their linguistic skills, these schools would empower young members of the community to engage with their distant relatives, thereby strengthening transatlantic ties. This exchange of ideas and experiences would enrich both groups, fostering a sense of global Rusyn solidarity that is lacking.

Moreover, the benefits of multilingualism are well-documented. Children who learn a second language often exhibit enhanced cognitive abilities, improved problem-solving skills, and increased cultural sensitivity. These schools would not only provide these cognitive advantages but also equip Rusyn-American children with a unique cultural lens through which to view the world.

In practical terms, the creation of Rusyn language schools would require a coordinated effort involving both the Rusyn-American community and governmental bodies. The establishment of curricula, recruitment of qualified instructors, and securing funding are all essential components of this endeavor. Most importantly, we would need to make them better than the average public school too. Parents more times then not in my experience, choose strength of education over ancestral connection. Additionally, partnerships with Slavic educational institutions could provide valuable resources and expertise. Think of the possibility if there was a cooperative Slovak-Rusyn language school in Pittsburgh?

Instead of wasting our time arguing about religion or who is doing what, let’s come together and make something happen here. Even if it is only one lonely school as a test it is better than the alternative. I hope those with the capabilities to make it happen will think about it.