While many students are enjoying a slower pace this summer, another group of Maȟpíya Lúta interns is spending the summer season immersed in Lakȟótiyapi through the Wóiwahoye Gluótkuŋzapi internship. Designed to help students move toward Lakȟota language fluency, the internship provides concentrated time each day to speak, hear, and think in the language.
The immersive experience extends far beyond the classroom. While interns spend time indoors building vocabulary and language skills, they also take their lessons across campus, practicing everyday conversations in the places they naturally gather and spend time. Whether greeting one another, asking questions, or talking through daily activities, students reinforce the language in real-life settings, helping Lakȟótiyapi become a living part of their everyday lives.
Throughout the summer, interns also document their language journey by creating short educational videos for TikTok. Their engaging content gives viewers the opportunity to learn Lakȟota words and phrases while watching the students’ confidence and fluency grow.
Follow @woiwahoye on TikTok to see their progress, learn a little Lakȟótiyapi yourself, and celebrate the next generation of Lakȟota speakers.