As children, we are taught that there are just some things you cannot do and say, and we continue to learn throughout our lives. When you’re a South Dakotan, however, these etiquette rules may be a bit more unique, like these 11 definite things you should never do in front of a South Dakotan:
1. Declaring you're a vegan.
What does being a vegan even mean? You can only eat your meat cooked a certain way? YOU CAN'T EAT MEAT AT ALL?! Is this really a thing?
2. Out-of-towners asking "Oh, isn't that where Mount Rushmore is or something?"
Actually, yes; Mount Rushmore is here and so are Crazy Horse, the world’s second-longest cave system (Jewel Cave), some of America's most beautiful national parks... should we continue?
3. Speaking badly of a local.
It's a known fact that Midwesterners (especially South Dakotans) are the nicest people you will ever meet, so speaking badly about one says a lot more about your character than that of the Midwesterner you're speaking of.
4. Complain about traffic.
If you are an out-of-stater and feel the need to complain about your state's traffic, you may want to find someone else to do it to. Why? No, it isn't because we are stuck up and just don't want to hear about it, but because we are going to make you feel even worse, as South Dakota has virtually zero traffic at all.
5. Complain about taxes and/or the government.
Again, we're pretty lucky compared to a lot of other Americans. We may complain among ourselves about property taxes, but we know we still have it pretty good.
6. Disrespect one of our many landmarks or attractions.
Yes, some of our attractions can be a bit unique, but if you think it is funny to graffiti, vandalize, or disrespect them in any other way, you will have us to answer to.
7. Boycott hunting...
Actually, boycott all you want; just know you will probably be laughed at or completely ignored during the process! (Fun fact: SoDak is considered to be one of the best places to hunt pheasants in the WORLD.)
8. ...gambling...
Did you know that gambling in South Dakota dates all the way back to the days of the Gold Rush? That being said, gambling is an important part of our history and economy, and isn't expected to go anywhere anytime soon.
9. ...and/or drinking.
Look, until you've tried one of our many breweries, wineries, and/or distilleries, you have not lived!
10. Make fun of us for not having any major sports teams.
We're far too laid back to get bent out of shape over it. We get along just fine rooting for teams from other states, thank you very much.
11. Finally, you should never ever speak ill of any of our iconic foods.
If you have never tried a hot beef sandwich, chislic, or kuchen, you cannot say you do not like them (and if you have tried them and still don't like them, you are just plain wrong).
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.