MADISON, WIS. — This November, the Wisconsin Democrats recognize National Native American Heritage Month, honoring the Tribal Nations who have called this land their home for generations.
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.
In celebration of National Native American Heritage Month, Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Ben Wikler released the following statement:
“This month, we celebrate the history and culture of Native Americans. As we honor the contributions of Native people to our country and state, we also celebrate their resiliency. Native history is a story of perseverance in the face of systemic displacement, racism, and attempts to destroy tribal culture and identities—including the brutal history of Indian boarding schools—which still cause harm in their communities today. We must ensure that we protect the rights of sovereign Tribal Nations to self-governance, respect Tribal hunting and fishing rights, advance equity and opportunity for all Native people, and help Tribal Nations overcome the challenges that they face.
“Wisconsin Democrats continue to reflect on how we can better support and stand up for our American Indian neighbors — we’re thankful that President Biden and Gov. Evers recognized that Native communities were disproportionately impacted by this pandemic and allocated American Rescue Plan funds to help Tribal Nations recover and thrive. Native American roots are deeply embedded across Wisconsin, and it is imperative that we commit ourselves to not only honor Tribal Nations but to advocate for and invest in them.”
