Lakota Language Consortium - Revitalizing the Lakota Language

Lakota Language Consortium would like to gratefully acknowledge the many Native-Speaking Lakota people who dedicated considerable time and effort in the creation of the New Lakota Dictionary, 3rd Edition.

This publication is the culmination of 30 years of work with Lakota First language speakers within in many Lakota communities, and would not have been possible without the knowledge they shared. Special recognition should be given to Ben Black Bear Jr., Robert Two Crow, and Richard Two Dogs for contributing their invaluable knowledge.

Lakota Language Consortium thanks Dr. John McWhorter for his kind words about the New Lakota Dictionary in the recent New York Times editorial. It would not have been possible without the knowledge and work of all the individuals listed here.

Taŋyáŋ Yahí!

Lakota Language Consortium (LLC) is a nonprofit organization made up of community leaders, linguists, educators, and volunteers. Our mission is to support the revitalization and preservation of Lakȟótiyapi by working to increase the total number of new speakers. We focus on developing language learning materials, training teachers, and promoting a vibrant and positive language community.

Since 2004, these materials have assisted over 20,000 students across more than 60 school systems in the region and have contributed to healthy language-learning communities. Our teacher training programs have helped expand community capacity for advanced instruction in the language – utilizing effective methods and integrating contextual learning and grammar.

Overall, our goal is to support the language learning community with the materials, resources, and the events needed to speak and utilize the Lakota language in everyday life.

Embrace the Language:

Choose a path and learn more!

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Students Reached

Textbooks Distributed

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YouTube Views on Lakota Bears

Language is Healing – Iyápi kiŋ Phežúta Yeló

The Lakota Language Consortium works to increase the number of Lakota speakers by providing innovative educational materials, learning opportunities, and promoting a positive version of a Lakota language future.

We hope you find the resources and information beneficial as you learn the Lakota language. There are materials and tools available to guide you at any stage of the journey. Start with our introduction page to see what is available.

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