USD students host 50th annual Wacipi

VERMILLION, South Dakota (KCAU) – This weekend the University of South Dakota’s Tiospaye Student Council is hosting its 50th Wacipi. An event that’s just as important to the native community as it is to the students.

“This is very important to us, just to continue the legacy that the former Tiospaye members have started,” said Tiospaye Student Council co-president Anna Harlan.

The Tiospaye Student Council’s Wacipi is a weekend long powwow full of song, dance and celebration.

“You just gain such a close connection with the community,” said Miss USD Tiospaye 2023 Deanna Milda. “That’s what it’s all about. It’s about being together and celebrating and just being happy we’re still here and showcasing our culture.”

The weekend started off Friday evening with a dinner honoring the original board members that started the event 50 years ago.

“I’m sure they never expected to be here, but we have continued {Wacipi} throughout the last years and we hope to keep on continuing so that we can make it to the hundredth,” said Harlan.

Now for more than 50 years, the USD Tiospaye Student Council has created a family bigger than a home could fit.

“The purpose of it is to create an extended family, so us coming together and being part of this atmosphere, I can truly say that this is my Tiospaye, this is my extended family,” said Tiospaye Student Council co-president Kylie Parisien.

As for the campus, hosting the annual Wacipi allows for learning that expands outside the classroom.

“USD allowing us to fill the space and being able to showcase our traditions and educate more people about the native american culture, create more awareness around it, it’s exciting,” said Parisien.

More than anything, USD’s annual Wacipi is open to everyone who wishes to celebrate the native american culture.

“If you’re non-native, or unfamiliar when coming to Wacipi, don’t be afraid to come,” said Milda. “Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Most of us are very willing to talk about our heritage, or regalia, what everything means.”

The powwow continues Sunday at 10 am at the Sanford Coyotes sports center.

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