11 July 2024, Nebraska
Santee tribal leaders got a federal grant two years ago to help preserve their language. The tribal council also funded language courses for all tribal citizens and non-enrolled children.
Years ago, Dakota was commonly spoken by grandparents. One grandfather left school to keep speaking Dakota, while a grandmother attended a school that encouraged it until funding was cut.
Today, Donald LaPointe, an elder in his mid-80s, is the last fluent Dakota speaker in Santee. Proficient speakers remain.
Kameron Runnels, vice chair, stresses the urgency of language preservation. Online and in-person classes teach conversational Dakota to around 65 students, helping them reconnect with their heritage and prepare to teach future generations.
“You have to use it daily to know the language,” says instructor Thomas. Participants like Sheldon Bird and Aracely Figueroa find empowerment in learning Dakota and aim to teach it to younger people.