SMSC Stories

SMSC to Host its First-Ever Language Bowl

Hoċokata Ṫi is set to host the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community’s first-ever Dak̇ota Iapi Akiciyapi (Dakota Language Bowl) on May 20 from 9am-5pm. The competition is part of the SMSC’s continuous effort to revitalize and sustain the Dakota language.

Participants will be asked to demonstrate their Dakota language knowledge during four rounds of competition by speaking, singing, and taking quizzes. Challenges will include having a conversation with judges, showing knowledge of Dakota words and phrases, and singing a traditional or common English song in Dakota. Teams of three people will compete in one of four categories: youth beginner, youth intermediate, adult beginner, and adult intermediate.

All are welcome to participate and attend the language bowl. Teams that register by May 13 will receive a free T-shirt. Same-day registration is accepted but does not guarantee a T-shirt. Registration will take place from 9-9:30am ahead of the day’s competition. The awards ceremony for all categorties will take place at the end of competition (around 5pm).

Visit hocokatati.org/dakota-language-bowl to register, view study guides, and for more information.