The Dakota language is indigenous to Minnesota, and like many other indigenous languages in the US, has become endangered due to the effects of boarding schools, and policies which prohibited their use. As of 2009 in Minnesota, it is estimated that there are 8 first language speakers of the Dakota Language, within those communities. While a small number of these speakers are in their fifties, most are over the age of sixty. The number of native speaking Dakota speakers is rapidly decreasing. The language bowl is working to increase the amount of Dakota language speakers.

This event is co-hosted by Dakota Language Programs, University of Minnesota & American Indian Studies, St. Paul Public Schools,

The event's co-sponsors inculde Dakhóta Iápi Okhódakičhiye