Indigenous Peoples’ Day
Governor Tony Evers signed an executive order to establish the day on the second Monday of October to honor Indigenous Peoples’ Day. This recognition sends a positive message that State of Wisconsin recognizes and celebrates our indigenous citizens.
The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, in deference to the State of Wisconsin, honors and pays tribute to this integral and celebratory recognition. As we pause to honor this day, we continue to recognize the importance of honoring the rich traditions and culture of the Indigenous Peoples.
Last year, the University unveiled our Land Acknowledgement Statement (copied below) that acknowledges the Indigenous linkage to the land on which the University resides. It was first read at the Board of Regents Meeting in December 2019. During that time, Regent Edmund Manydeeds III gave a heart-felt validation of our Lands Acknowledgement Statement.
“As We Gather”
As we gather here for (insert activity, i.e. commencement, meeting, etc.), we acknowledge that the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater exists today on the traditional lands of many Native people. We welcome the duty and opportunity to share stewardship of these lands.
While this State institution has a rich history, for thousands of years, this region, and these lands, were home to diverse Native peoples. In the knowledge and understanding of this history, we acknowledge that the land on which the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater now exists was and remains the historic and traditional territory of many Native peoples. The Ho-Chunk grew corn and gathered a living from these lands. The Potawatomi, then closely related to the Ojibwa and Odawa peoples, called this land home as well. We welcome and are honored, by the responsibility to be good stewards of these lands and good neighbors to all Wisconsin Indigenous populations. In concert with the Native American Cultural Awareness Association, Native Students, with faculty and staff, the University continues to explore durable and meaningful ways of acknowledging our relationship. We recognize these great Native nations and their respective sovereignties, and are thankful to be positioned in such prominent, historic, and meaningful landscapes, as we continue to provide educational opportunities for all whom the University serves.
The University continues to recognize the work of the Dr. Anthony Gulig, associate professor of history in the College of Letters and Sciences, the Native American Cultural Awareness Association and Dr. Kenny E. Yarbrough, chief equity, diversity and inclusion officer in the creation of this statement.