Like many Michiana communities, much of Dowagiac’s history and culture has been shaped by a language spoken by the region’s first inhabitants: the Potawatomi.

The name “Dowagiac” itself is derived from the Potawatomi word “dewje’og,” roughly translating to “a place to fish/gather.”

In spite of its importance, the number of people who speak and understand the millennia-year-old language dwindle every year.

“Potawatomi is on the list of languages that are on the verge of extinction, because there are not many fluent speakers left,” said Sam Morseau, the director of education with the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians.

Thanks to a recent partnership between the Pokagon Band and Southwestern Michigan College, some dedicated citizens and instructors are looking to thrust the Potawatomi language into the forefront of young minds — and tongues.

Beginning in the fall, the Dowagiac community college will offer two Potawatomi language classes, Introductory Potawatomi Language (BDWI 101) and Intermediate Potawatomi Language (BDWI 201). Pokagon Band Elder Kevin Daugherty will teach the classes.

The abbreviation “BDWI” is derived from the true name of the language, Bowewadmimwen.

SMC is formally introducing the classes into its curriculum following the success of two trial classes taught by Daugherty at the community college earlier this year. The classes exceeded expectations, as around 15 to 20 students enrolled in each course, Morseau said.

The Pokagon Band worked with the Michigan Department of Education about a year and a half ago to develop the curriculum for the classes, which are accredited by the state, Morseau said. Because of this, students who take the courses will receive foreign language credits for their high school or college diplomas.

“The courses are held to the same academic standards as other foreign language courses,” Morseau said.

In addition to the courses at the college, the Pokagon Band worked with Harford High School to introduce a Potawatomi course at the school. Other than Spanish, it is the only foreign language class the school offers, Morseau said.

Dowagiac Union High School students who are dual enrolled at SMC may also take the courses to receive foreign language credits. Native American students at the high school may also take the course, regardless of grade, Morseau said.

While the courses are open to any interested student, the Pokagon Band is hoping to entice its members to enroll in the classes through the promise of college credits, Morseau said. The tribe has established a goal of having 100 new fluent Potawatomi speakers within the next 10 years, which will not only keep the ancient tongue alive but also help its citizens deepen their connection to the tribe’s time-honored traditions and culture.

“By knowing the language, it will also give you a sense of Potawatomi culture,” he said.

Registration for the Potawatomi and other fall classes at SMC opened March 29. Interested students may register online, call (269) 782-1499 or stop by the student service center on either SMC campus, in Dowagiac or Niles.