The preservation and revitalization of Indigenous languages is a critical endeavor, one that resonates deeply within communities striving to maintain their cultural heritage. In 2008, a powerful testament to this commitment unfolded at the 2008 Lakota Dakota Nakota Language Summit, a gathering that brought together members of the Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota nations – collectively known as the "Sioux" – from across the United States and Canada. This landmark event served as a unifying force, igniting a collective effort to strengthen and perpetuate these vital languages for generations to come.
The 2008 Lakota Dakota Nakota Language Summit wasn’t merely a conference; it was a vibrant expression of cultural identity and a strategic planning session for linguistic survival. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency, driven by the understanding that language is intrinsically linked to cultural survival. The summit provided a platform for sharing knowledge, developing strategies, and fostering a sense of solidarity among those dedicated to language revitalization.
Uniting the Seven Council Fires: A Theme of Unity
The overarching theme of the summit, "Uniting the Seven Council Fires to Save the Language," powerfully symbolized the need for collective action. "Seven Council Fires" refers to the Oceti Sakowin, the traditional name representing all the Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota bands. This theme underscored the critical importance of standing together to confront the alarming rate of language loss. It was a call to action, urging individuals, communities, and tribal governments to work collaboratively in preserving these invaluable linguistic treasures. The 2008 Lakota Dakota Nakota Language Summit perfectly embodied this theme.
The phrase "Seven Council Fires" carries significant historical and cultural weight. It represents the collective strength and shared heritage of the Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota peoples. By invoking this symbol, the summit organizers aimed to foster a sense of unity and shared purpose, reminding participants that the preservation of their languages is a collective responsibility.
Days of Prayer, Keynotes, and Collaborative Breakout Sessions
Each day of the 2008 Lakota Dakota Nakota Language Summit commenced with a deeply spiritual and culturally significant ceremony. The entrance of the eagle staffs, symbols of strength, wisdom, and connection to the Great Spirit, marked the beginning of the day’s proceedings. This solemn procession was followed by a prayer led by Arvol Looking Horse, the respected keeper of the White Buffalo Calf Pipe Bundle of the Oceti Sakowin. His presence and spiritual guidance set a tone of reverence and purpose for the entire summit.
Following the morning prayer, a keynote speaker addressed the assembled audience. These speakers, often prominent figures in language revitalization, education, or tribal leadership, shared their insights, experiences, and perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing the Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota languages. Their addresses served as inspiration and motivation, setting the stage for the collaborative work that would follow in the breakout sessions.
The heart of the summit lay in its diverse and engaging breakout sessions. These sessions, facilitated by experienced language educators, advocates, and community members, provided participants with practical tools, resources, and strategies for language teaching and learning. The emphasis was on creating new generations of speakers, particularly among the youth of the Oceti Sakowin.
The breakout sessions covered a wide range of topics, including:
- Language Teaching Methodologies: Exploring innovative and effective approaches to language instruction, tailored to the specific needs and learning styles of Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota students.
- Language Immersion Programs: Examining the design, implementation, and evaluation of language immersion programs, recognized as a highly effective method for language acquisition.
- Curriculum Development: Creating culturally relevant and engaging language learning materials that incorporate traditional stories, songs, and cultural practices.
- Technology Integration: Utilizing technology, such as online resources, interactive software, and mobile apps, to enhance language learning and accessibility.
- Community Engagement: Fostering community involvement in language revitalization efforts, recognizing that language preservation is a collective responsibility.
The facilitators of these breakout sessions represented a diverse range of organizations and communities, reflecting the widespread commitment to language revitalization. They included representatives from the Dakota Iapi Teunkindapi Consortium, Lakota Language Consortium, Sioux Valley Dakota Language Committee, Association on American Indian Affairs Native Language Program, Alexis Nakota Sioux Language Program, and many others. The expertise and dedication of these individuals were instrumental in the success of the summit.
Inspiring Voices: Keynote and Guest Speakers
The 2008 Lakota Dakota Nakota Language Summit featured a distinguished roster of keynote and guest speakers, each offering unique perspectives and insights on language revitalization. Arvol Looking Horse, Stephanie Charging Eagle, Leonard Little Finger, Ron His Horse Is Thunder, Chief Cameron Alexis, Chief Clifford Pouchette, Chris Mato Nupa, Oswald McKay, Virgil Taken Alive, Jay Taken Alive, Ben Black Bear, and Rosalie Little Thunder were among the many who shared their wisdom and experiences.
These speakers addressed a range of topics, including the historical context of language loss, the cultural significance of language, the challenges of language revitalization, and the strategies for achieving success. They also provided insights into the specific efforts being undertaken in their respective reservations, reserves, or communities to revitalize and strengthen their languages.
Their stories of perseverance, innovation, and community engagement served as powerful inspiration for all who attended the summit. They reminded participants that language revitalization is not just a theoretical exercise, but a deeply personal and meaningful journey.
Evening Celebrations: Culture and Community
Beyond the workshops and presentations, the 2008 Lakota Dakota Nakota Language Summit also provided opportunities for cultural celebration and community building. Evening events included traditional hand-games, Lakota Dakota Nakota language jeopardy, and musical performances by local Native musicians. These activities fostered a sense of camaraderie and allowed participants to connect with one another in a relaxed and informal setting.
The hand-games, a traditional form of entertainment and social interaction, provided a fun and engaging way to learn about Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota culture. The language jeopardy game tested participants’ knowledge of the languages in a competitive and interactive format. The musical performances showcased the talent and creativity of local Native musicians, celebrating the rich artistic traditions of the Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota peoples.
Leadership and Planning: Charting the Future
In addition to the language revitalization workshops and cultural events, the summit also included important meetings focused on leadership and planning. The Lakota Dakota Nakota elected leadership meeting brought together tribal leaders from across the United States and Canada to discuss the role of tribal governments in supporting language revitalization efforts.
During this meeting, leaders engaged in a round table discussion on how tribal political leadership could utilize its resources and governmental policies to assist in language revitalization. They explored a range of options, including funding for language programs, the development of language policies, and the promotion of language use in government and community settings.
Furthermore, the Oglala Sioux Tribe Education Department held a three-day planning session for the adoption of Lakota language as an alternative criterion for meeting No Child Left Behind AYP standards. This initiative represented a significant step towards recognizing the importance of Lakota language proficiency as a measure of academic achievement.
Representation and Collaboration: A Diverse Gathering
The 2008 Lakota Dakota Nakota Language Summit brought together representatives from a wide range of Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota tribes and First Nations, including the Oglala Sioux Tribe, Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, Alexis Nakota Sioux First Nation, Wesley Band Stoney Nakoda First Nation, Yankton Sioux Tribe, Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate, Santee Sioux Tribe, Ocean Man Nakota First Nation, Carry the Kettle Nakoda First Nation, White Cap Dakota First Nation, Sioux Valley Dakota Nation, CanupaWakpa Dakota Nation, Upper Sioux Community, Lower Sioux Community, Prairie Island Dakota Community, Shakopee Mdewakanton Dakota Community, Pheasant Rump Nakota First Nation, Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, Lower Brule Sioux Tribe, Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, Bearspaw Stoney Nakoda First Nation, Chiniki Stoney Nakoda First Nation, Birdtail Sioux First Nation, Wahpeton Dakota Nation Rosebud Sioux Tribe, Fort Peck, and Fort Belknap Assiniboine.
In addition to these Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota nations, the summit also included representatives from other tribes and First Nations, such as Sagkeeng First Nation, Delaware, Cherokee, Dine Nation, Chippewa, Ojibwe, Northern Cheyenne, Northern Arapaho, and the Manitou Rapids Reserve. This diverse representation highlighted the shared commitment to language revitalization across Indigenous communities.
Looking Ahead: A Continued Commitment
The 2008 Lakota Dakota Nakota Language Summit was a resounding success, providing a platform for collaboration, learning, and inspiration. Planning immediately began for the following year’s gathering, scheduled for November 12-14, 2009, at the Ramkota Hotel and Convention Center in Rapid City, SD. This commitment to ongoing dialogue and action underscores the enduring dedication to preserving and revitalizing the Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota languages.
The summit served as a powerful reminder that language is not just a means of communication, but a vital expression of cultural identity and a key to preserving the rich heritage of the Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota peoples. The spirit of unity and collaboration that permeated the summit will continue to inspire language revitalization efforts for years to come.