Native Issues
Language Revitalization
Oct 20, 2025

Standing Rock educator named to UNESCO global task force


Tipiziwin Tolman, a Standing Rock Sioux Tribe member and descendant of the Spirit Lake Dakota, has been appointed to the UNESCO Ad-hoc Group 2: Indigenous Language Transmission and Resilience Building of the Global Task Force for the International Decade of Indigenous Languages, according to a news release.

Tolman, a doctoral candidate at Washington State University, focuses her research on Lakota and Dakota language pedagogy and literacy. “I’m honored to contribute to this global effort,” Tolman was quoted as saying. “Our languages carry the wisdom, laws, and lifeways of our people as learned from the land and water.” Audrey-Maude Perreault, Secretariat of the International Decade of Indigenous Languages, said Tolman’s expertise and commitment will “enrich the collective efforts to safeguard, support, and promote Indigenous languages worldwide.”

October 20, 2025

Help us keep the fire burning, make a donation to Buffalo’s Fire

For everyone who cares about transparency in Native affairs: We exist to illuminate tribal government. Our work bridges the gap left by tribal-controlled media and non-Native, extractive journalism, providing the insights necessary for truly informed decision-making and a better quality of life. Because the consequences of restricted press freedom affect our communities every day, our trauma-informed reporting is rooted in a deep, firsthand expertise.

Every gift helps keep the fire burning. A monthly contribution makes the biggest impact. Cancel anytime.

Continue
Register for the free Buffalo's Fire Newsletter.