WisDems Celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day

MADISON, WIS. — This Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we recognize the rich culture and contributions of the Indigenous communities that make up Wisconsin. Wisconsin is home to 11 federally recognized tribes: Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, Ho-Chunk Nation, Lac Courte Oreilles Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, Menominee Tribe of Wisconsin, Oneida Nation, Forest County Potawatomi, Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, St. Croix Chippewa, Sokaogon Chippewa (Mole Lake), and Stockbridge-Munsee — as well as the Brothertown Indian Nation.

Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Ben Wikler released the following statement:

“Today, we celebrate and honor the history, resilience, and culture of indigenous peoples across our country and in Wisconsin.

“As we celebrate, it is critically important that we recognize that American history is rooted in the systemic displacement of and violence against Native communities.

“Democratic leaders are lifting up Tribal Nations and reckoning with painful histories. On Friday, President Biden became the first president to issue a proclamation commemorating Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Here in Wisconsin, in addition to officially recognizing Indegenous Peoples’ Day beginning in 2019, Governor Evers continues to acknowledge our state’s history and moral responsibility. Today, he issued a formal apology for Wisconsin’s history of Native American boarding schools and declared the state’s support of the federal government’s nationwide investigation into these boarding schools across the country.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately harmed Indigenous communities, and it’s paramount that we continue the important work of advocating for, partnering with, and investing in Tribal communities. We are committed to continuing to work with sovereign Tribal Nations to lift everyone up, honor their land, and celebrate the vital work of Tribal Nations in Wisconsin and across the country.”

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.