Cansa’yapi Cultural Department
The THPO/CCD department was established in 2007 through MOU with the National Park Service and the Lower Sioux Indian Community.
Our Vision:
Cansa’yapi is a vibrant gathering place where all generations and relatives come together to share and sustain our connections to our traditions and to one another, and together, we promote the well-being of our Dakota Oyate and the Oceti Sakowin.
Tribal Historical Preservation Office Contact
Cheyanne St. John
Director
Ext. 8672
Ryan Dixon
Language Teacher
Our Mission
To gather, protect, nurture, and share our everchanging vibrant Dakota traditions with the Oceti Sakowin.
Gather: Taŋyaŋ uŋspepi
To expand the collection of our cultural traditions and knowledge, through increased community engagement.
Protect: Awanyaŋka
To increase our capacity to preserve and protect our cultural traditions, identity, knowledge, and land (maḱoċe), through the integration of current technologies.
Nurture: Iċaġa okiya
To promote our cultural traditions and nurture relationships, through the collaborative hosting of increased hands-on activities for children, families, elders, returnees, and relatives.
Share: Akiptaŋ eċuŋpi
To share our cultural knowledge and educational offerings, through streamlined and coordinated communication.
Strength:
Our members are resilient, strong, and our greatest resource.
Cultural Department Services
Need more information?
We are committed to improving the health and well-being of our community members. If you have questions or need assistance, please contact us.