The vast expanse of the Star Wars galaxy, a universe teeming with Jedi Knights, Sith Lords, and intergalactic conflicts, is about to find a new voice. Soon, the iconic phrase "May the Force be with you" will resonate not just in English and countless other languages, but also in Diné, the language of the Navajo people. This landmark event, a cultural bridge between a beloved science fiction saga and a vibrant Native American heritage, is the result of a collaborative effort between the Navajo Nation Museum, Navajo Parks and Recreation, and Lucasfilm, Ltd. They are working together to dub Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope into the Navajo language, marking the first time a mainstream movie has undergone such a comprehensive linguistic transformation for the Navajo Nation.
This project, more than just a simple translation, represents a significant step towards language preservation and cultural revitalization. The seeds of this ambitious endeavor were sown over three years ago by Manuelito Wheeler, the director of the Navajo Nation Museum. Wheeler, a passionate advocate for the Diné language, envisioned the power of a popular film to engage Navajo youth and inspire them to connect with their linguistic heritage. He understood that language is not merely a tool for communication, but a vessel that carries within it the history, traditions, and worldview of a people. By encouraging Navajo youth to learn their language, the project also preserves Navajo culture, Wheeler argued.
The idea of translating a cultural phenomenon like the Star Wars movie into Navajo presented a unique opportunity to breathe new life into the language. The initial concept was met with enthusiasm by Lucasfilm officials. They recognized the universal appeal of the Star Wars saga and its ability to transcend cultural boundaries.
In a statement, Lucasfilm expressed their pride in adding Navajo to the long list of languages in which Star Wars has been experienced. They emphasized the saga’s enduring themes of good versus evil, which have resonated with audiences across the globe. This translation aims to further broaden the saga’s reach and connect with a new generation of Navajo speakers.
One of the initial challenges was securing the necessary funding to undertake the complex dubbing process. The Navajo Parks and Recreation Department stepped in to provide crucial financial support, recognizing the project’s profound cultural significance. Martin Begaye, the department director, expressed his pride in being a part of such an innovative and entertaining approach to preserving the Navajo language. He saw the project as a way to engage the community and foster a sense of ownership over their linguistic heritage.
The project’s implementation involves a meticulous and collaborative process. The Navajo Nation Museum is working closely with Deluxe Studio, a leading provider of localization services. Together, they are assembling a team of fluent Navajo speakers who will meticulously translate each line of dialogue in the movie. This process goes beyond simply converting words from English to Navajo; it requires a deep understanding of cultural nuances and idiomatic expressions to ensure that the translation accurately reflects the spirit and intent of the original film.
The selected Navajo speakers will not only translate the dialogue but also adapt it to resonate with a Navajo audience. This may involve incorporating traditional storytelling techniques, cultural references, and humor that is specific to the Navajo culture. The goal is to create a viewing experience that is both entertaining and culturally enriching for Navajo speakers of all ages.
Shana Priesz, senior director of Localization at Deluxe, emphasized the significance of the project, stating that it ranks among the most important they have undertaken. While Deluxe has experience dubbing films into numerous languages, this project holds special meaning due to its potential to contribute to the preservation of a storied and noble culture. Priesz acknowledged the responsibility that comes with translating a film, recognizing that it helps to bridge cultural and communication gaps between societies. In this case, however, the project carries the unique privilege of contributing to the preservation of the Navajo language and culture.
The dubbing process itself is a complex undertaking that requires careful attention to detail. The Navajo voice actors will work to match the tone and delivery of the original English-speaking actors, while also ensuring that their performance is authentic and culturally appropriate. The sound engineers will then integrate the Navajo dialogue into the film, seamlessly blending it with the original music and sound effects.
The impact of the Star Wars movie to be translated to the Navajo language is expected to extend far beyond the entertainment value. It is anticipated to serve as a powerful tool for language revitalization, inspiring Navajo youth to learn and use their language. The project may also encourage other Native American tribes to undertake similar initiatives, preserving their own languages and cultures.
The translated film will be screened at various locations throughout the Navajo Nation, providing an opportunity for community members to come together and celebrate their linguistic heritage. It is also expected to be made available for educational purposes, allowing Navajo language teachers to incorporate it into their curriculum.
The Star Wars movie to be translated to Navajo language, represents a unique and inspiring collaboration between the entertainment industry and a Native American community. It is a testament to the power of language to connect people, preserve culture, and bridge divides. As Obi-Wan Kenobi’s iconic words resonate in the Diné language, they will carry with them a message of hope, resilience, and cultural pride for the Navajo people.
This is more than just a film translation; it’s a cultural affirmation. The Navajo Nation is taking ownership of a global phenomenon and reshaping it to reflect its own unique identity. The project serves as a reminder that language is not a static entity but a living, breathing force that can be adapted and revitalized to meet the needs of a changing world. The Diné language will now have its own Star Wars saga.
The Navajo Nation’s efforts to preserve its language are particularly important given the challenges faced by many indigenous languages around the world. Globalization, assimilation, and historical trauma have all contributed to the decline of indigenous languages, threatening the cultural identity of countless communities.
By investing in language revitalization efforts, the Navajo Nation is not only preserving its own cultural heritage but also setting an example for other indigenous communities. The success of the Star Wars movie to be translated to Navajo language, could inspire similar initiatives and help to ensure that indigenous languages continue to thrive for generations to come. The Navajo language version of the Star Wars film can now be enjoyed by the Navajo Nation.