Winter Solstice
12/20/20251 min read
Winter Solstice
In SD Tribes, the Lakota, Dakota and Nakota observed the Winter Solstice as an important time in their relationship with Unci Maka. The people were so tuned in that they understood grandmothers language. Ancestors knew this was a time during Waniyetu or winter that we would grow closer to our relatives by sharing more time together in support of each other during times like harsh winter weather.
Encourage parents and guardians you are working with to share this time during the holiday and take the time to check in on relatives. This will help create a strong tiospaye. Here is an excerpt from an article in the Lakota Times by Arlo Iron Cloud.
"This time is used often to tell stories that reflect upon life and Lakota way. This is why story telling is predominately reserved for the long winter nights. The gathering of stars and positions of planets often led way for when camp or ceremonies were either moved or conducted. Many nations have different rites during this time."
