Spring Issue | Publication Archive

Welcome to the spring issue of Wiċoṡkaŋ! The Dakota word Wiċoṡkaŋ possesses multiple meanings, but within this publication it refers to the actions and efforts of a group of people. We are excited to share more stories about the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) through this quarterly magazine in the months ahead.

Spring is a time of renewal, growth, and new beginnings — a sentiment that resonates deeply within the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community. This spring issue is dedicated to celebrating the SMSC’s rich history, enduring legacy, and the trailblazers who have helped shape the Community. Inside, you’ll find compelling stories that highlight the SMSC’s guiding values and cultural traditions, offering a deeper understanding of what makes the SMSC so unique.

From welcoming our bison relatives back to the Dakota homelands to inspiring personal journeys, this issue is a tribute to the the SMSC’s past, a reflection of its present, and a vision for its future. Readers will learn about the late SMSC Chairman Stanley Crooks’ induction into the Native American Hall of Fame, the tribe’s new philanthropic campaign aimed at improving Native youth health and fitness called IndigeFit Kids, and Mystic Lake Casino Hotel’s new gaming and entertainment options. These stories are just a glimpse of what this spring issue has to offer.

Whether you’re looking for inspiration, entertainment, or fresh perspectives, we hope this issue of Wiċoṡkaŋ inspires you and leaves you with something meaningful to carry forward. We are grateful for the opportunity to share these stories, which reflect our enduring strength, resilience, and commitment to building a brighter future together.

Thank you for being part of this journey to help keep our stories alive and our traditions strong.

Ṗiuŋdapi (We are thankful).