The mission of Speaking Place is to grow the Passamaquoddy language and create more fluent speakers. We believe that our language is vital to the survival of our identity as a people and our cultural knowledge.
We know that our language has an inherent right to exist. We aim to promote the use of Passamaquoddy language across generations and revitalize the language through dedicated efforts in training, documentation, immersion, research, innovation, community and collaboration.
We are active in…
In February 2020 Speaking Place sponsored this language-forward mural, designed and created by the Blaseños, an artist and filmmaking collective based in San Blas Atempa, in the Isthmus of Oaxaca State, in Southern Mexico. The idea for the mural, with its message: “I speak Zapotec”, arose after a Speaking Place video feedback public event in the town.
The documentary Language of America by Ben Levine revived a 50-year-old cold case murder and sexual assault against Native people setting it on a path to justice.
A scene from Schizophrenia describing a radical community mental health treatment process now part of a training program used internationally.
An Exciting New Chapter for Speaking Place
JUNE 2025: We’re entering an exciting new chapter at Speaking Place! After years of dedicated service, Julia and Ben have officially retired, and we thank them deeply for their vision, guidance, and commitment to the documentation and revitalization of the Passamaquoddy language.
We’re thrilled to announce that Brianna “Sipsis” Smith has stepped into the role of Director, bringing fresh energy and a deep-rooted passion for community driven language work. Alongside this leadership transition, we’ve also welcomed two new board members. Gabe Paul (see bio here), brings strong experience in education and culture-based programming. We’ll share Plansowes’ full bio soon, and we’re honored to have their voice and vision on the team.
As we move forward, we’re energized by the growing momentum of our language programming. This includes language immersion retreats, work with fluent comprehenders, expanding our Lapomosine Self Documentation Workshops, and the development of new resources rooted in traditional knowledge and everyday use. We’re also building powerful collaborations with other Indigenous-led organizations whose values and programs align with our mission.
With your support, we’re not only teaching language, we’re building a future where our language lives, breathes, and thrives in our homes, communities, and hearts.
December 2024: Exciting Leadership Transition at Speaking Place - A New Chapter for Language Revitalization!
We are excited to announce a new chapter at Speaking Place! Brianna “Sipsis” Smith (Sipayik) has stepped into the role of Co-Director, joining Julia Schulz in leading the organization’s efforts to revitalize Wabanaki languages and strengthen cultural connections within the Passamaquoddy community. Brianna brings a fresh perspective and passion for ensuring that our languages remain a vibrant part of our identity. This transition marks an exciting milestone for the organization in that it will be transitioning into an all-Indigenous leadership team!
This transition also marks the retirement of our cofounder, Ben Levine, whose dedication to language preservation and revitalization has been a cornerstone of Speaking Place’s success. Over the years, Ben’s pioneering video documentation and storytelling projects and groundbreaking methodology have contributed to positive change in Indigenous and minority communities. Although Ben is stepping away from his role at Speaking Place, he will continue his work on projects that explore the power of video to revitalize language and culture.
With this leadership change, Speaking Place remains deeply committed to its renewed mission of creating fluent speakers and fostering the use of Wabanaki languages across generations.