Dakota Wicohan
(wee-CHO-ha) means the Dakota Way of Life
is to preserve Dakota as a living language, and through it,
transmit Dakota life ways to future generations
ABOUT US
Learn about Dakota Wicohan, a non-profit organization, and its efforts to revitalize the the Minnesota Dakota language.
PROGRAMS
Dakota Wicohan has a wide range of language programs, leadership and lifeways programs, and outreach efforts.
RESOURCES
Click for resources to learn the Dakota language, and learn about school resources, such as our documentary and handbook.
Traditional Dakota Arts is part of everyday Dakota lifeways. It is how culture, language, history, and values are lived and carried forward. At Dakota Wicohan, our programs are rooted in living art forms: Dakota songs, dance, drumming, traditional arts such as beading, quilling, quilting, ledger art, and ceremony teachings. Through the practice of art, we strengthen Dakota identity and community and support the continuation of Dakota lifeways for future generations.
Pidaunyapi!
We Thank You for Your Support!
Dakota Wicohan is a cultural resource center that sustains, grows, and transmits Dakota cultural lifeways, arts, and language so that together we are better prepared to lead with wo’Dakota. If you would like to support our mission please consider making a donation.
Want to Learn More About Minnesota’s First Language?
Knowing the story of our language is an important part of the Dakota language revitalization movement. Dakota Iapi Teunhindapi: We Cherish the Dakota Language is that story told in this 54-minute documentary based on interviews with Dakota elders and teachers. Companion curriculum and handbook are also available. Regardless of background, we encourage everyone to listen to this important story.
Listen to Some of Minnesota’s First Language Speakers in the video above. See more videos on the Dakota Wicohan youtube channel.