Leighton Peterson
(Ph.D., University of Texas, Austin, 2006)
Visiting Assistant Professor of Anthropology 2006-2007
Office: Barnes 306
Phone Extension: 6131
Email: leighton.peterson@coloradocollege.edu
Linguistic anthropology

Leighton is a linguistic and social anthropologist whose research has explored the emerging cultural attitudes, language ideologies, and discursive practices among Navajos and Navajo speakers through the lens of new media technologies, such as cell phones and the internet. These new media act as both a context for and medium of linguistic and cultural vitality and transformation. His research explores the ways in which ideologies of language and technology have shifted and converged. In addition, Leighton also has extensive experience in the world of Indigenous media. He was a radio DJ and producer for KTNN on the Navajo Nation, and was also a partner in TricksterFilms, a Native-controlled film production company. His experience with KTNN provided the practical knowledge and cultural context to explore the role of broadcasting in Navajo language maintenance. He is also the current producer for Trickster's current documentary, titled Swept under the Rug, a film which explores the hidden histories of Navajo textiles and the personal stories of Navajo weavers, on their own terms and in their own language

See a clip of Leighton's film Swept Under the Rug here

Courses:

AN208: Topics: Language and Speech in American Society
AN209: Topics: Indigenous Film and Media
AN211: Topics: Native Peoples of the Southwest
AN250: Language and Culture
AN309: Topics: Language Ideologies and Cultural Identities