Rising Voices / Hótȟaŋiŋpi - Revitalizing the Lakota Language

[@davidecarretta4958]

In reference to 37:33, I would like to share a little bit of my story regarding Lakota as a foreigner! My name is Davide, I’m Italian, so I have literally nothing to do with America as a whole, let alone Native Americans. In Italy we speak Italian, but alongside the national language, several minority languages are spoken as well, but for social and political reasons we call them “dialects”, as if they were mere varieties of Italian. Instead, they are ‘independent’ languages that stemmed from Latin, just LIKE Italian (and not FROM Italian). Hence I’ve always been passionate about my local ‘dialect’. When I was 10 years old I discovered the beauty of languages all over the world, and started learning some of them. I started with English, then Spanish, a little bit of German, and meanwhile I became utterly obsessed with Hawaiian and Maori, two indigenous languages. Ever since, I’ve seen indigenous languages as normal languages, and what I mean by this is languages worthy of being learned just like any other language, due to their beauty, to the culture they describe, to their function as a bridge between peoples. I wrote my thesis for my bachelor’s degree on the importance of the revitalization of indigenous and minority languages (including my ‘dialect’ in Italy) and am now getting a master's degree in Cultural and Linguistic Anthropology, with a view to getting a Ph.D. to work with speakers of indigenous and minority languages for the revitalization and preservation of their wonderful heritage. Although I've never moved from Italy (due to being too young and broke), I decided to get ahead and start learning the main languages of my interest. When I was 10 I started learning Hawaiian, and ever since, I’ve worked on my Maori, Tokelauan, Lakota, Navajo, Ju|’hoan and a little bit of Samoan. I can’t say I’m fluent in any of these languages (except for Hawaiian, where I’m quite conversational), but I intend to try to really understand these languages and the beauty of the people who speak them. Lakota is marvelous, and I’m here to show my appreciation from afar, from a small city in the South of Italy. May your language live on!

[@carinarilk89]

GRAZIE

[@fidenemini111]

Language is the spirit of the nation. Be proud of your language, it is beautiful!

[@SpiritmanStudio51]

Exactly!

[@doriwilson6991]

When I saw the movie dances with wolves and heard the Lakota language I thought it was beautiful. I am glad they are trying to revitalize their people to learn their language.

[@Livoirienyvoitrien]

Yes. The Turks say bir lisan, bir insan, iyyi lisanlar, iyyi insanlar. One language, one human (culture), two languages, two humans. It's what draws the first concept of the world onto our souls' canvas, and how many we may learn in addition, that first one will always resound. Multitude and diversity are our greatest blessing.

[@Orophile_303]

Hell, I'm mexican and I don't teach my children Spanish because that was not our real language. We spoke something else, but because of that happened we lost our language. I was born in Nayarit, MX and have Wixáritari blood. Don't be ashamed of your people, your language etc teach your children the lokota language and keep it alive! Many blessings and strength to lakotas ❤️

[@Plethorality]

your mother tongue is so important. English and Spanish are useful, but have lmitations the world needs its languages. love and music are the international languages.

[@frederiquecouture3924]

Merci beaucoup.

[@DanielAguilar-ud6vc]

I am part of the new generations of Latin Americans descendent of Nahuat Pipil from Central America. Currently studying with colleagues that speaks from five to six languages. I am sure that human brain capacity doesn't have limits besides the ones we put to ourselves..

[@edwardhlavka5843]

There’s nothing wrong with a command of the English language. I went to school specifically to understand the Lakota language. Please understand that you can be a commander of many languages. ❤

[@marthaprovancial2494]

Wopila tanka.

[@mikelaranaetxarri2934]

Be proud, speak Lakota.

[@genemanly4360]

My deep hope is for Lakota's young generation to never stop learning their language. My highest respects to the elders, and all involved in the teaching of the Lakota language

[@krisendicott2306]

Absolutely beautiful programme I can't thank you enough for educating me big love from Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 ❤️ 🧡

[@laurenttolgaalemdar2273]

Please record as much as you can, record everything, scan the mouth movements, throat movements, tongue movements, positionment of the teeth, proverbs, double entendres, unused words, new words, just compile and compile, please etch your language in eternity! much love, good luck in this journey!

[@mclovin0503]

Here I am, a Canadian lakota, I sure do have an accent and I learn how to have that right tone, and accent while saying lakota words👏🏾

[@wbworkout]

I am not Lakota but of Irish ancestry but I have been studying Lakota History, Culture and traditions for man years and have felt drawn to them and their indomitable spirit and resilience. More recently I have felt that it was necessary for me to become better familiar with their language idols and sounds in order to understand them better as a people. What a great program!

[@fourshore502]

hey if youre irish you have your own dying language problem! not many people speaking irish these days!

[@wbworkout]

@@fourshore502 so true, none of my grandparents spoke Gaelic.

[@shericrowley5656]

@@wbworkout Ach, an bhfuil Gaeilge agat?

[@philosophialouise]

I'm also of Irish heritage! And wish to study Lakota language and life as well as Geailge :) I have always felt drawn to the languages. síocháin chugat!

[@wbworkout]

@@philosophialouise Nice, learning is a doorway to knowledge and understanding.

[@carolinehumbert2484]

We need to acknowledge how commendable these teachers are to try their hardest at keeping the Lakota language alive. Hopefully, all those little kids will carry on with it so that this beautiful people's tongue will never die.

[@hellsbellez]

I loved this...I need to learn my language, I feel sad to be so disconnected...

[@Reason1717]

Let that sadness bring you to action. Start small just a few words you can work into your normal dialog. Maybe start with always saying "Thank you" in Lakota. People will ask you what does that mean? And you will grow a desire to use/say more. I am Seneca (our lands are up in New York state) and the more I speak Seneca the more I want to learn. Start slow, and you will grow and thus honor your elders. Mitakuye Oyasin.

[@kathyborthwick6738LakotaEmoji]

hellsbellez washte🥰

[@SpiritmanStudio51]

Don't be sad, learn your language, reconnect with you ancestors, your culture, and beliefs. Live as your people do. All Native Americans and all of Native America is sacred to me and I am not Native American, but my heart is.

[@tariqp1234]

Mani wastete yo

[@WHANAUPEACE]

We Māori have the same concept called 'Kohanga reo' or the language nest.

[@utej.k.bemsel4777]

As a young woman i tried to lern lakota. But if you don't have other people that speak it, you soon loose what you've learned. Slowaye sni is all i remember now. Stay strong out there and try hard to keep this language alive. If you loose it, there is so much more lost than just words!

[@hervelakotasunka2625]

Touching heart and soul. Wopila.

[@salkeen1]

As a Greek, a descendant of survivors of several attempts at our own genocide and ethnocide, I salute you and extend all my love and admiration. Language is central to identity. It is important to preserve it and enrich it. I have always thought that your language is beautiful and it would be a great loss for the world if it ever died out. I wish that one day I may learn it myself and then help teach it to others. If it's not my fate to do so, then at least I want you to know that I will pray for you and your people. Good luck with everything and never stop fighting.

[@jasa9186]

Your language is the true language of America...it is the first language....it is your heritage, your history,it is what makes you who you are ..which is such a beautiful ppl...most beautiful language. It is so spiritual... This can NEVER DIE.... The government has taken so very much from you.... But they can NEVER take your language from you unless you allow it 2 die... Your language is who you are.... You are the LAKOTA....... I Love your culture... I love you as a ppl your the Light in this dark World..... Love 2 all of you❤💕❤💕

[@iachavela1683]

I was really touched by your film! I am from Mexico, and as I watched this video, I started thinking about how sadly in Mexico, and in many other Latin American countries, we are facing the same situation with our native languages, silently dying out. The saddest part is that, as far as I know, not many information is being shared, nor is there enough people concerned about their preservation. I'm amazed at how far you've come with all your conservancy projects and how all your actions are undoubtedly bearing fruits. It is really very inspiring!! I was wondering how possible would it be to add a Spanish translation to your video. I can offer myself to do it as volunteer (I specialize myself in translation). I'm aware of the importance of protecting the wisdom within so many, for so long, humiliated and neglected languages, defending their unique perspective. That's why I truly think it's important for more people to watch material like this film, specially (though not only) hispanic people due to the similar sociolinguistic conditions in their countries. More information would be accessible for younger generations, and happily, more language concervancy projects might come up! I hope you take this into consideration :) Thank you for sharing this!!

[@ameliaespindola5145]

Primera Isavel Im.from.latin. (south)America.and.I.totally.agree.with.you.I.would.liike.to.learn.to.speak.south.indigenous.languages.as.quechua.guarani.and.mapuche.Sacred.languages!!.Instead.of.these.imposed.europeans!!QUIERO.DEJAR.DE.HABLAR.ESPAÑOL!!

[@DrQuaid]

Idk if youll ever read this, but my ancestors on my dads side are mexican, they live literally

[@Mochi-rc1cs]

she said " I speak Lakota in my art" omg that deeply touched my heart ❤️ my eyes are making tears ....my heart hurts and burns ♥️♥️♥️🌿🌿🌿🌿

[@Mike-sv2nu]

I'd love you guys to get together with Duolingo to create a Lakota language course. I'm sure that many all around the world would love to learn Lakota.

[@ottodidakt3069]

Brilliant ! I'll be one of the first to sign up !

[@gayvideos3808]

that might not be a good thing, it seems that many Thítȟuŋwaŋ people want to keep the language grounded in their community. An outsider with no connection to the community learning the language just because they think it seems cool without regard or knowledge of the struggles the Thítȟuŋwaŋ people have gone through might be disrespectful I have seen Diné people react negatively like that when Duolingo released the Diné Bizaad course

[@ottodidakt3069]

@@gayvideos3808 Well language is the fundament of culture, you can only understand so much of a specific culture without understanding it's language !and besides I don't imagine many people making the effort to learn a language, especially one so different and hard to learn, without any form of connection to motivate them. Also cultures, and their languages, usually dry out and die if not nourished with outside exchanges and reconnaissance.

[@lunatikk7951]

Pactura it would help me learn my language since everyone of my elders had the language beat out of them so they refuse to teach us. If they won’t teach me, I’ll learn it myself. I’m trying to learn diné on duolingo for my grandma too.

[@Dead_beats4u]

Hell yeah

[@maywang8233]

When we are talking about language revitalization, we actually talks about culture revitalization. The sense of national identity and pride is very valuable.

[@sandraburkhart3480]

Love my First Nation Heritage, proud to be Native heritage.

[@Lilolindiriel]

Beautiful language and charming people . I would LOVE to have learned such a language but as a danish , it would be difficult to find anyone to to speak it with. It would be wonderful to hear such language more , SO MUCH MORE.!

[@jemimalamb78]

+Lilolindiriel Perhaps there would be an online forum that you could learn from. May you might be able to start one for around the world and perhaps get into contact with some of these on this video.

[@LanguageConservancy]

+Lilolindiriel +Jemima Lamb We're happy to hear that you're interested in learning Lakota! There are some great resources for learning, and the Lakota language learner community includes many distance learners. Have you checked out the Audio Series, which is available at the Lakota Language Consortium bookstore? llcbookstore.com This is a good starting point if you are learning Lakota by yourself. There are plenty of other resources as well (like free apps for Android and iOS). There is, indeed, a Lakota language forum, which has hundreds of pages and information. That would be our best suggestion to learn the language on your own, as there are many Lakota speakers that are using the forum - you'll have the opportunity to practice with speakers, ask questions and search forum pages. You can find these resources on the following page: lakhota.org/learn-lakota/self-study/ (#2 on the list is the Lakota Language Forum)

[@Lilolindiriel]

+Lilolindiriel so GRATEFUL. Philámayaye. was it correct? At least I tried to say thank you.

[@Motofanable]

Is there Lakota Medium Education?

[@craigriley4642]

I'm a white American but I would absolutely love to learn Lakota. I love the Native American culture with all my heart. I am so angry with my people for attempting to destroy these beautiful people and their language.

[@mwellmwell]

Craig Riley aho mitakuye oyasin!

[@RoyalKnightVIII]

Craig Riley *cultures not culture, there is no ONE native american culture. like saying you wanna learn Bulgarian because you love British culture.

[@MrJennyjoyride]

As if we would share our knowledge or traditions with non tribal..

[@MrJennyjoyride]

Most tribes or nations will not sharewith non tribal.. or purposly give the wrong info.. just a heads up Im just finishing a language revitalization class here in the northwest if you go on line you can find on youtube many native american languages you can study. Im studing LUSHOOTSEED. Best of luck, with the past trauma its a challenge for non natives to get into communites and learn our ways.

[@emilylevine2907]

The is no "Native American culture." More like 500 difference cultures.

[@lauranicholls9421]

Thanks for sharing I love the. Lakota nation. You have a very beautiful family. ..⭕️☀️❤️⭕️

[@emilsabatini4038]

I was so impressed with this video. It brought me, a grown man to tears many times! I am now in the process of learning how to speak Lakota. I must make my way to visit Pine Ridge Indian Reservation to see and feel and touch and to breathe the land the Lakota call sacred the Black Hills. My prayer is for the Lakota people to endure, to grow and increase, for their health and prosperity now and generations to come and for their native language to live !

[@MultiSuperfluous]

When a language dies, so does its culture, music, art, way of life and a whole encyclopaedic storehouse of life over centuries disappears into oblivion. Language is culture, culture is language

[@DayandNight24]

MultiSuperfluous we are all human where one language falls another forms if free to do so

[@draigwolf3627]

finding these recording of language to be taught are hard to find.i think it's great and thanks to the people who make this possible. you are heros

[@indigomisfit1027]

Beautiful language,it belongs back in the land of it's origins.💖💖💖

[@PandaCsenke]

Thank you for this upload. I am a hungarian and in our language we have a saying that more or less translates to english something like this: "the nation lives in its language". Keep up the good work, wish you all, Lakota people the best!

[@TraftonHaynes]

I watch this and feel for the Lakota people. Growing up, my grandparents told me about the language oppression put on the the Cajun speaking population of Louisiana. Cajun speakers were discriminated against so parents decided not to teach their children. This is not to say that Cajuns can totally relate to the atrocities that have been put on the Native peoples of America, but I can relate on the language part.

[@Reason1717]

Trafton you words are so true. That relating you feel is the connection to the human condition. Nice post.

[@ashleigh6192]

This video is beautiful. I am briefly examining this language for research project and just had to hear it spoken after reading about it for so long. It is beautiful. There are very cool phonological patterns that happen in Lakota that I have been studying, it is a beautiful language.

[@MrJennyjoyride]

I'm Cherokkee Im visiting the Nisqually Reservation my teacher is Lakota visiting here as well its nice to go visit the tribes and see the differnt culters, taste the foods and join in new traditions. I enjoy the art and storeis each tribe or nation has to share. This was a great documentry we watched this for our class.

[@humanbeing2009]

Wow! What a beautiful and hopeful film. Thank you so much for this documentary on the current state and efforts to strengthen the Lakota language.

[@langworldtm8260]

Since about 9 years I’ve been studying the endangered languages of Polynesia (especially my beloved Hawaiian language, which I personally address as ka ‘ōlelo o ku’u pu’uwai, the language of my heart). I’m a language lover, and I personally love helping native cultures with the preservation of their language. I probably have no right to learn an indigenous culture’s language, but I’d do anything to help. And I’d really love to learn the Lakota language together with many other languages from all over America. How can one do that? Moreover, I love the Lakota culture and this documentary was amazing. Philámayayapi from Italy!

[@MirageandReality]

There are many people around the world who feel connected to what Native American cultures stood for and their connection to nature. The communities opening themselves up to world participants, encouraging online worldwide language learning of indigenous languages, would bring more knowledge exchange, plus funds for economic solutions. It would absolutely be the solution and bring them out of poverty plus it would help the world. Something really amazing as far as I understand is that fact that the Native American languages don’t distinguish between male and female, it’s just ‘alive’ and ‘not alive’. To speak in that way would bring an important shift in consciousness because language does shape perception and even the whole body. There are cultures who don’t speak in terms of left and right self centred to the person speaking, and only speak about directions with reference to north south west east. The effect was to make any person speaking that language able to know his direction even when placed in a dark room, blindfolded and spun around. Language truly shapes the brain!

[@amypatton6730]

This IS your land. God Bless America, and all Native AMERICANS.

[@paulseoighemcgee5772]

I love your language and I aim to learn it to show love and respect to you and your people.

[@858tactical]

Bautiful language,beatiful people..I'am so glad for this documentary!! Every time I heard Lakota in some movie,or video similar to this..,I was enchanted by it...,so literally today I started to look for some materials about it....and what surprise for me,when I saw,that one of my natives..,Jan Ullrich,is Lakota language teacher..!! I hope this language and Lakota culture and culture and languages of all native Americans tribes will endure,even gain in strenght !!

[@lanasophijoe-official2018]

I'm from Kota Kinabalu Sabah west Borneo this is my second day of watching video of Lakota people. i'm really interested of learning Lakota language Today is 15 July 2020 I hope there's a latest news about Lakota people will be share in you tube Thanks for sharing this video admin.

[@LanguageConservancy]

Hi Laidiah! If you're interested in learning more about the Lakota language, we have some great resources. You can subscribe to our newsletter at lakhota.org/get-involved/subscribe/ and follow Lakota Language Consortium on Facebook. If you're interested in starting to learn Lakota, our Owóksape app is a great resource. You can visit owoksape.com to learn more.

[@jasoncorner]

What a well made and highly informative program!

[@jasoncorner]

A big up to all those involved in teaching and preserving the Lakota language!

[@juliesteimle3867]

I am not Lakota, but I don't think that a people should lose their language. Language is a mindset and has a spirit that is unique. Each spirit deserves to exist and be expressed.

[@tbuodon]

I am so grateful for all the work that these folks are doing to keep Lakota language and culture alive. Thank you.

[@KS51ABCAN]

Here in Morley, Alberta, Canada, we have the Nakoda people who still speak their language fluently, and teach it in school. I had a friend there, who is now deceased, who I used to visit on weekends, and there I heard the language spoken all the time, and I used to enjoy hearing it, and loved the way it sounded, even though I didn't understand it. I'm really delighted to hear that you are working on preserving it. Wishing all the best. (y)

[@theeagle7521]

KS VIDEO that’s a different language then Lakota or Dakota.

[@luciamaldonado654]

I have a lot of respect for those Native American Indians because no matter what they still standing up .

[@jerrybarrett6376]

This was a wonderful production and I support the customs and Lakota language. I have devoted many adventures of Oglala Lakota braves in my Book series “The Chosen Ones Oglala Warriors” , available on Amazon and Kindle. It teaches some Lakota words and a few of other tribes. Some good customs and respect for Mother Earth and about the Creator’s Words. My hope is that these books will be enjoyed by everyone and most especially the Lakota Nation and all who like adventure and the early days of many Indian tribes. My Wakantanka bless this work and the many who have it made possible, I truly enjoyed it and learned many new things to write about. Thanks so much.🐻

[@ngudikawruh]

Tibetan Buddhist culture has been destroyed by Chinese invasion since 1950. the greatest masters had to flee the country and start teaching the ancient wisdom to western people. their main master Padmasambhava prophesied " when the iron bird flies, the teaching shall spread like an ants nest being torn apart". I wish that the main holders of Lakota wisdom shall wisely and compassionately share their wisdom with proper vessels in every corner of the mother earth. people are wanting your spiritual nourishment, they need it. it would transform your suffering, and our spiritual poverty. Step by step. please consider us noble and wise elders. Mitakuye Oyasin.

[@ameliaespindola5145]

ngudikawruh excellent.comment!!!!

[@Reason1717]

Mitakuye Oyasin back to you ngudikawruh (All my relations) means just that, we are all one. Tibet needs a greater voice on the world stage. Thanks for your post.

[@vinnysing1324]

The 'iron bird' refers to the aircrafts, and iron horses refer to military vehicles. They are invented by the westerners, for wars. Tibetan Buddhism would spread to the western world once the invasion happened.

[@Reason1717]

@@IsnalaW , I wish only to learn, so I ask you...All my relations, does not imply that we are all of one origin, one race, from one spirit.

[@Reason1717]

@@IsnalaW , 1st of all, Thank you for your response. I do appreciate the effort and time and knowledge. Much of what you wrote reminded me of a quote from Chief Seattle "The Earth does not belong to us, we belong to the Earth." I was on the Pine Ridge Rez some 3 years ago...I asked a Lakota girl about the meaning of the term "Hoka-hey" (I most likely misspelled the term) She said "Let's go." "C'mon on." Peace to you :)

[@zloisloi]

My heart bleeds, 'cause I also fought this battle for my native language, but lost. I am Erzya (this is a Finno-Ugric people in Russia, related to Finns) and we have a very similar situation. However, in Russia now there is a fascist dictatorship, which is supported by many Russians, and if you speak your native language or worry about its safety, then you are declared an enemy of the people and a traitor. Therefore, I left for a Free Finno-Ugric country as a political refugee, and now I think that I will completely dissolve and assimilate among another, more successful and free people. Such things are in the old world.

[@Garfield0123]

I’m very inspired by your elders and the love they have for the people. I went to Pine Ridge, White River and Mission years ago. I wanted to hear the Lakota language but sadly, I only heard Lakota from 2 precious Lakota elders (White Wolf family). They treated me as family and I never forgot that. On my rez, the language loss problem is very similar. Blessings to you…

[@karenmininni4962]

Very beautiful video. We all need to learn the language so we can better understand the communication that is needed for our nation in order to join together to fight oppression together.

[@JAYJones-d5r]

I want to learn this language.. it is my Ancestry...I'm an Urban African American with Lakota and Ogala tribe. And I'm now 70....I intend to pass this down to my future grandchildren

[@nkosazanaandtheevolutionarys]

We Love our Lakota warriors, of all ages!! ...u make me resound in depth of native pride, to be INDIANS. What a blessing to love our cultures,our oneness with earth sky wind water and our beloved animal and spiritual beings, ancestors who guided our hands in lost times, so we can be found again.

[@RayHuong]

At 21:09 Bart Simpson references Jack Nicholson in "The Shining." Whether this was intentional or coincidental is hard to tell, but in "The Shining" Kubrick imparted a very strong message about the tragedy visited on the American Indian by European colonization of North America.

[@bigtruck182]

amazing im flintknapper stone tool maker very connected wit the old ways my daughter is mennonite we live in a huge mennonite area an that language is going out fast to sad to say she has started to learn it but difficult as she goes threw police training in school an really no one to talk it wit keep your Languages alive no matter who you are !!!!

[@monicasmith6385]

Great film. I too would love to learn Lakota but I also have no one else to speak it with here in Connecticut. I will check out the forum and the resources at the Lakota Language Consortium. Wopila to all of you for this film.

[@faeriegirl42013]

I am trying to move actively towards being a language keeper for the Lakota as well as the people’s of my blood (Clatsop) and the trade-language we have left. I view it as one of the biggest gifts I can bring to myself, my children, and my people. Bringing attention to language-loss is very important thing. Thank you for putting this out there.

[@karambaw]

Keep going guys with pride! Regards from Poland ❤️

[@brian7717]

Originally from North Carolina, I ended up spending most of my 20's living in South Dakota. I developed a deep love for the Lakota people. It is a culture that I will never forget and a people that I will always have a strong connection to.

[@donnabrown6756]

I would be proud as hell to learn your sacred language. Thanks so very very much for sharing and caring, this with me. 🤍🖤💛💙🇨🇱❤️💚💜

[@KristinLemsMusic]

wonderful and inspiring!

[@wbworkout]

Revisiting this wonderful documentary. The Lakota are a great people, may they rise and prosper!

[@k.mcclure2222]

This is such an important resource to share awareness of indigenous language issues, and I am so glad it is available for public access. One question: Would it be possible to have the machine CC/captions added to the stream? That would be very helpful in sharing the film with deaf people as well as with multilingual people and others who use the captions to more deeply understand the content.

[@mgmassey174]

My heart... Longs to see my cousins To hear them speak their language Sending respect..love and hope And prayers for I've heard my cousins have had a rough year.. Bless u all A humble Tsalagi

[@mickymouse2445]

Much success to this project!

[@wojtekgrous726]

Yes i totally agree

[@pitriver1050]

Blessings and light to you all, my tribal language is also at risk I am California Mission from Pitriver tribe. I see you, I hear you and feel you. Save our children. Ahau!

[@chrisdarby3340]

How Beautiful your sounds i read about you and some of the bad story about the Apaches but they still went though i will love you all and happy to watch Lakots people God bless you all I from AUSTRALIA

[@michaelcusano5599]

I absolutely loved this; being a wasicu I am so ashamed of what we did to these native people, especially forcing Christianity on them, which seems to continue today. The arrogance, the judgment---it makes me angry. Visiting South Dakota last September has really opened my eyes, and I need to do something---doksha ake--Pilamayaye

[@kamauwikeepawikk9520]

Here in Aotearoa ( NZ ) the language is the most important part of our culture. It holds everything pertaining to Maoritanga culture and lore as any other culture. This is our identity and is unique to us. So is it I believe to all other indigenous people without it invites implosion on oneself. It is a connection to my past and path to my future, but when we allow outside forces dominate we lose everything including your sovereignty. I encourage you my brothers in your stand against all odds.

[@MrCOUNTYCORK]

the same was done in relation to the Irish gaelic language, we were forbidden by the British to speak our language ,it was about taking your identity as a people, it was a tactic by Imperialists there is now a revival ,good documentary ,my hope is some day all native Americans speak their language and revive their culture

[@johna3153]

Wow really white boy!

[@pmuartist6174]

Shut up, we all been striped away long time ago of culture too!Then got forced with Christianity etc..so get educated before you speak.

[@Reason1717]

Stone Wall I am a Native from the Seneca tribe, when I went to Ireland I learned from the people the crimes against them from the British rule. I loved hearing Irish Gaelic spoke in various pubs I ate at! Erin go bragh!

[@shericrowley5656]

@@Reason1717 An bhfuil gaeilge agat? Agus tír gam team game tír gan anim.

[@Reason1717]

@@shericrowley5656 , I just realized your response was in Gaelic (at least that is my most uneducated guess). I confess I know not what you said. But I'll respond with: Peace and health to you Sheri.

[@ottodidakt3069]

Interesting the part on identity/language etc. I'm from a big cultural mix myself and have always been interested in the subject of identity. As a kid I used to say I'm half Portorequeno (born in PR) half American (my dad) half French (my mom), half Indian (grew up with many native friends and the culture shaped me) half Chicano (my dad lives in a dense Chicano neighbourhood and it shaped me too) half Irish and half Scotish (Celtic and Viking ancestors, but that part is more romantic and mostly just the gene pool) .... that's a lot of halves but they all sum up to who I am. I think your culture is what defines your identity or or mixed identities, not your skin colour or gene pool. Language is definitely a huge part of culture. And after all, last but not least ... Mitakuyé Oyasin - Aho

[@Truly1Tom]

I am a Jew who loves the Lakota people and language. I've had a lifetime love affair with the tribe despite what Occidental European culture has done in the trojan horse genocide which has been an ongoing thing since the Lakota were forced onto the concentration camps called reservations. The refusal to accept the settlement funds which have been offered in compensation for the theft of Paha Sapa (the Black Hills) is a testament to the resilience and tenacity of all Lakota. I believe they should hold out until they get their offer-in-compromise which is regaining a portion of Paha Sapa and some monies.

[@owenmccall632]

God bless Russell means, let's unite, give these true people the run of the earth, no more destruction of the gifts, we destroy everything

[@oliviaarteaga4092]

I love Lakota language! I am also learning Comanche where my heritage is from. I love all Native American languages so beautiful

[@kam16441]

Im lakota and comanche. I decided to take on lakota before comanche language.

[@oliviaarteaga4092]

@@kam16441 that's cool my boyfriend is navajo so I am also laearning navajo too

[@Robert-pp6ff]

I have realities who are lakota.i have never met them .I did help Lakota language consortium a few years back .I'm thankful I could do something to help .I have done some family searches and found some interesting things out like past family's history.wow quite a surprise for me.i was at pine ridge reservation.and was a learning experience.lots of interesting people .the German reporters and Peter maffyi.well it was fun thank you for that .will I ever learn Lakota language.well their sur aren't people around here to teach or learn from .but I'm glad I did what had to be done philamaya.its great to have .being native but being lost cast out hum i wonder what the after life going to be like will i then be with my family.

[@Wicahpi440]

you guys are amazing! ! thank you

[@wojtekgrous726]

He is so amazing

[@juliapolley1627]

Thank you for sharing, this is beautiful ❤

[@dianezappulla7552]

I feel lost I love the earth and sky and yet my grandparents came from Italy. I cannot speak Italian so I could never make it if I went back to Italy. I started learning some Lakota and I too feel more connected to the land.

[@mp6471]

Lascia perdere l'Italiano, c'è anche troppa gente che lo parla e che lo usa per dire sciocchezze. Impara il Lakȟota, è una lingua infinitamente più preziosa per quello che rappresenta. Do not learn Italian, there are too many people who speak it and who use it to tell nonsense. Learn lakȟota, it is greatly more valuable for what it stands for.

[@willielugo8042]

I'm Proud that the Lakota people are still trying to learn an stay with their language and traditions and of course pass it on to their children. What more can you ask and pray for my origin Language from my Ancestors was destroyed and so were the vast majority of my ancestors. The Taino Natives who first encountered Columbus and the Spaniards never had a chance to pass the language or culture or religion very little is known about the Taino's just bits and pieces that's it. History books say that they are Extinct but our DNA tells us we are still here although our customs are now Spanish and our language is Spanish but we are still here and we are known as Puerto Ricans, Cubans and Dominicans from the Carri beans.

[@yusufbych6308]

may the spirit be with you all-İ would like to be with you but İ am old now-but if İ find a way İ will come to your land and visit you and show my deep respect for you all-thank you for a great video

[@kimimilawacipiwinyan848]

Loving This, Inspired Ones Are Here And It's Going To Be Stellar, Let's See What We Can Do For OUR CHILDREN TO HAVE A VOICE The Time Is That Which Was Promised, please let Us, Help Our Most Precious Gift To Humanity! Prepare a Pathway For These Sacred Little Beings Chose To Help Us and We Will No Longer Allow The Atrocious Acts Of Mankind To Be Acceptable To Hold On To The Knowledge Of ,The Prepetuation Of Anymore Crushing The Spirits Of The Sacred Ones, My Heart is having a great time talking However the REALITY IS THAT THE TIME IS NOW OUR CHILDREN ARE IN HARMONY WITH THE DIVINE SOURCE OF LOVE AND WE MUST BE A GUARDIAN OF EACH ONE OF THOSE WHO YOU WILL SEE, LET US PROMOTE POSITIVETY AND SILENCE THAT WHICH IS NOT IN ALIGNMENT WITH THE GREATEST GOOD. please join Us as We Stand Around Our Little Ones, Our Focus is Dedicated to Giving OUR CHILDREN THEIR OWN VOICES IN THE LAUGAGE OF THE HEART. during the many years I am grateful to know numerous Olawan, sad that it was a hope to have a foundation to learn to speak a conversation and carry it with me to teach my Children and to be able to express to others in that way. Edit lol I should add the plethora of people, names of each soul has stayed with me, the experiences, the talks from so many that have moved on, the belly laughs and tears, working on that one, INSPIRATION IS KEY 🤗

[@brenguiden5521]

Is maith liom éisteacht le teanga lakota. Is teanga agus cultúr iontach é. Buaicphointí ó Éirinn (greetings from Ireland). Nila wacante wakiya!

[@rockym47u54]

I'm from Mexico, but I want to learn to speak Lakota. Since I started working in Rapid City in 2016 and 2017, I was interested in learning Lakota. I have some native american friends there. Cheers!.

[@ghostrecon6381]

I am mexican,but love Lakota culture and language. I know some words and learning more with the Dances with Wolves movie(Kevin Costner's movie). So interesting and very passionate people and such strong bond for nature.

[@KTI_minorOrderofExorcists]

Cosúil le stair agus teanga mo thíre, Éire agus an Ghaeilge, beagnach wiped amach go hiomlán ag na hionróirí ó Shasana. Ach táimid freisin, ag troid chun ár bhféiniúlacht, ár gcultúr agus ár dtraidisiúin a chaomhnú. Seasann Éire i ndlúthpháirtíocht le muintir Lakota. Similar to my country's history and language, Ireland and the Irish language, almost totally wiped out by the invaders from England. But we too, fight to preserve our identity, culture and traditions. Ireland stands in solidarity with the Lakota people.

[@thefutureairmen8046]

I am not Lakota but I am cheyenne I am from Platte City Missouri next time I'm up in South Dakota I will find a teacher and learn this language

[@cinnamon.ogilvy]

Please go ahead with reviving your language! Wonderful. I've learned quite a few languages myself. And from this experience I can most definitely say: The identity of people lies in their own language and it's a reflection of their culture and mentality. There was a reason why they took that away from you. Think about that. There's a huge difference if you have your own language. By the way, Lakota is a beautiful language!

[@bluejihbed5022]

Language is powerful, it doesnt just teach u a New way of speaking but a New way of being and live with the world. May all of u who is loseing this wonderful gift u been given to be taken back. Gr8 loss for us if this were to happen.

[@bluejihbed5022]

Most kids will probably find many obsticles learning a New language, take the oportunity while u can

[@bluejihbed5022]

Ur elders

[@bluejihbed5022]

U are the protectors of them kids

[@custodialmark]

' do you know my name? i studied what mom taught of our people. only 2 semesters language at BHSC in the 70's . Mom, Ruth Hunsinger collected a help share the Lakota oral stories. no one yet of my native kin met here has told me of her deeds, yet ive continued my studies of such past decades,, and more so now as available on youtube. i still have our books to share if an when asked. ' i will try to reshare some of what i may say and know of...

[@tiapayne4260]

I once tried to do a speech in a high school course that covered the Wounded Knee Massacre. I did not do it right, most likely. Still it was fun to learn. The Lakota culture is a beautiful and entertaining learn about.

[@GallowglassVT]

The spirit of a people is found in their language. Here's to hoping the Lakota and other indigenous peoples don't lose theirs to colonialism.

[@cmpruitt1]

A´HO! Beautiful language. Mystical!

[@coolstorybro6076]

* The original American language!!!! All those in "America" should learn it; it's so beautiful!

[@RussellNollenMusic]

Thank you for sharing this! ❤

[@csanyipal]

I hope you save your Lakota language.

[@wiseguysoutdoors2954]

I would really like to learn both Lakota, my great grandma was a child survivor of wounded knee and was taken in by the German immigrant family Gosser, in northern Nebraska, not far from Wounded knee, just over the border. They found her asleep in their barn and when they heard the terrible news of the massacre, they adopted her, rather than give her to those who killed her family. She was fair haired and light skinned, as Crazy Horse reportedly was. After a terrible drought, they moved back to German Hill area in NW Pennsylvania, where they lived before moving west. She never told anyone until she was on her death bed and told her children then. I have visited the Paha Sahpa. I felt something I had never felt before. Like I was home, I belonged. Also the Sundance site in the Bighorn Mountains of Wyoming. An energy similar to the Black Hills

[@williamrandall5050]

Lakota and other languages must be saved, it’s a question of identity be proud of it

[@Geishadoll80]

Amazing. Gotta come home for this...

[@pjam4490]

Beautiful!

[@simonerusso6920]

Love and respect ciccio

[@omamamiapoop4661]

Even if their language goes extinct they will always be remembered ALWAYS they are LEGENDARY

[@BrookDesHarnais]

The land does not belong to us, but to the great Spirit. The good and the evil are not ours to possess and manipulate; they belong to the Creator. We are called to love and to forgive, but Love is not ours to own; it is only ours to share.

[@jqsfm3540]

Mitakuye Oysin I was blessed to live in MT by the Mnisose where I picked up Lakota from some friends I met when I was living in the woods about 15 miles north of Helena. I never finished learning it all but am trying to help keep it alive so I purchased your book and cds. No one in Utah speaks it mostly Navajo and Paiute here. My wolf/dog listens real well though she responds to it better than English. So I have a question How would you say the following phrase in Lakota. We are all energetic beings in dynamic exchange with others and everything around us. This make it possible to recreate who we are in each new moment. Oh ma key yo pilamayaye Wakan Takan kici un