Code Switch
Revisiting the fight over the Lakota language as Trump targets "divisive narratives"
Apr 16, 2025
Christina Kala, a producer at NPR, delves into the critical battle for the Lakota language against the backdrop of political challenges. She discusses the urgency of language preservation as the number of fluent speakers declines. The conversation explores ownership and the rights related to cultural storytelling, as well as the ongoing efforts within the Lakota Nation to revitalize their language. Notably, she highlights legal clashes over language resources and how community-driven initiatives are crucial for empowering future generations.
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Quick takeaways
- The Trump administration's efforts to eliminate what it deems divisive narratives raise critical concerns about historical education and cultural representation.
- The internal conflicts within the Lakota community regarding language preservation highlight the complexities of ownership and authority over cultural narratives.
Deep dives
Impact of Government Policies on Cultural Institutions
The current administration's actions have targeted funding for educational institutions and museums that present narratives about America's history of racial oppression. A presidential order has especially focused on the Smithsonian Institution, indicating a push to eliminate what the administration considers divisive ideas. This has raised concerns about preserving the integrity of historical education, particularly regarding exhibitions that aim to reshape national narratives. Such actions underscore the tension between cultural representation and governmental influence in shaping societal narratives.
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