Statement on Indigenous Peoples’ Day

Today our city, county and state join together in observing Indigenous Peoples’ Day, and we want to take a moment to recognize the lasting impact that Native Americans have had across our region for thousands of years.

Last year the Common Council – led by Alderwoman Lewis – officially designated the second Monday of October each year as Indigenous Peoples’ Day in the City of Milwaukee. Together we felt this was a necessary step to honor and celebrate the history, culture and positive impact that Indigenous people have had in our community throughout history, while also acknowledging their strength and perseverance during times of discrimination, oppression and injustice.

Our state has been home to many Indigenous communities for millennia, and the Menominee, Potawatomi, and Ojibwe have known Milwaukee for centuries before the city kept records. Their contributions to our history, culture and economy are immense and it is safe to say that Milwaukee would not be the first-class city we all know and love without the early and ongoing work and influence of Indigenous people. It is because of this that we encourage residents to take time and reflect on all the ways in which Indigenous culture has positively impacted our community and will continue to do so in the future.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.