WELCOME!

On behalf of the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) Business Council, we would like to welcome you all to the annual SMSC Wacipi. This weekend is a time for our Community to come together to connect with our friends, relatives, and guests, and to share our culture with our neighbors. Throughout the wacipi, you will experience times of fun and excitement, but there will also be times of reverence. Please find time to give thanks to the Creator, dance and sing with your neighbors and relatives, and enjoy the many food and craft vendors in attendance.

Whether you traveled from just down the street or across the continent, we are honored that you chose to spend your weekend with us. Thank you to the hundreds of dancers and singers who are performing throughout the weekend, also to our very own Community Members and staff who work hard to make this an enjoyable weekend for all.

We continue to be thankful for veterans and their families as well as all emergency services professionals serving our Community and the nation. Wopida Tanka.

We are saddened by the passings of Community Members Marvin Brewer and Katherine Brewer-Knight, and Community Youth Chyanne Rios since we last gathered for the SMSC Wacipi. We extend our condolences to their families.

Congratulations to all of the high school, postsecondary, and GED graduates throughout Indian Country and beyond. These individuals will continue to grow as they become future leaders and create their own success stories.

Again, thank you to all of our Community Members and staff who spent many days preparing for this year’s event. We are all here to celebrate culture, traditions, and heritage. We hope you have an unforgettable weekend at this celebration of life.

Pidauŋyaŋpi (We are thankful).