Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota

When the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota was still in its early stages, its director at the time sought out Glenn Wasicuna for his thoughts on how the Dakota people could be represented in it.

Wasicuna said he recalled being asked if there was an animal they should use to symbolize the Dakota people. He saw it as a teaching moment, and his response might not surprise those who know him from his work as a Dakota language instructor.

“If you want to include the Dakota people here, use the language,” he shared Wednesday.

His guidance led to “ded yahipi kin waste” being displayed at the museum’s entrance as a welcome to visitors.

Wasicuna recounted the memory Wednesday during his latest visit to the museum — this time for the unveiling of a new exhibit further highlighting Dakota language and art.

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