Peter Hill ’00 has dedicated his life to the revitalization of the Lakota language, while making significant contributions to the Pine Ridge Reservation.
After graduating from Carleton, Hill moved to the Pine Ridge Reservation, where he learned the Lakota language through self-study. His commitment to the community and language preservation is profound. Thirteen years ago, he founded the only Lakota language preschool and immersion program in South Dakota, creating resources and materials from scratch due to a lack of existing ones.
Hill’s efforts have significantly impacted the community, leading to the expansion of his program and the development of extensive Lakota language content, including a resource library with more than 1,000 children’s books, hundreds of Lakota language learning videos, and dozens of Lakota games and apps. Despite facing challenges and setbacks, Hill’s dedication to preserving and promoting the Lakota language remains unwavering.
His work has not only educated children but also inspired a new generation to learn and teach the language, ensuring its survival for future generations. Hill’s approach, deeply rooted in respect and cultural immersion, highlights his commitment to empowering the Lakota people.
Hill’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. He has been featured in local news and media, further amplifying the importance of his work in language preservation. The impact of his work is encapsulated in the words of Maka Black Elk, one of his former students: “Peter Hill is an alum Carleton should be proud of. Despite the criticism he has faced, he has made an extraordinary impact on my community. He has taught countless young people, developed curricula, worked on linguistic translations, and helped preserve the wisdom of our elders. Although he doesn’t seek recognition, he is deeply deserving of it. His contributions to the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation and Lakota country at large are profound, and he carries the legacy of our elders with humility and grace.”