We’re creating a Lakota resource library

Last year we launched our Lakolya Waoniya language and cultural revitalization program. A year into the program our learners are emerging as conversationally fluent speakers, and are in high demand to work with other organizations and tribal programs.   

While the learners still have two more years in the program, they are eager to create opportunities for the rest of the community to take the next step in their language learning journey as well. With only a few hundred fluent speakers left on the reservation, they sense the urgency.  

Natalie Bordeaux is one of the learners. Despite being a high achieving student with a stack of college acceptance letters, she felt she needed time for personal reflection before taking the next big step in her life. Two years later, she could never have imagined how her life has changed.    

“I was born Lakota, but I didn't feel Lakota,” said Natalie. “I didn’t grow up traditionally and all I knew was what my parents and grandparents had taught me. I saw this program as a chance to put all of those different puzzle pieces together.”   

After completing the program, Natalie wants to be a teacher. She and the other learners are already creating a curriculum that will eventually be available to the community, but in the meantime they want to provide access to resources that already exist.  

The learners are asking for your help in creating a Lakota resource library and public reading room.  

This project will support those who want to learn some practical phrases to others who aim to become fully fluent. The library will provide easy access to a variety of materials pertaining to the Lakota language, culture, history, thought, and philosophy.   

Your donation will help Lakolya Waoniya support more Sicangu people interested in learning the Lakota language and create a space that will be the locus of Lakota language on the Rosebud Reservation.