Wisconsin, home to sovereign nations such as the Ho-Chunk, Menominee, Ojibwe, Oneida, Stockbridge-Munsee and Potawatomi, holds a deep and enduring history of Indigenous presence that stretches thousands of years.
The Ho-Chunk Nation, whose ancestral lands include what is now Dane County, is a prominent example of resilience in the face of adversity. Despite forced removal efforts in the 19th century, the Ho-Chunk people remained steadfastly connected to their homeland, resisting displacement and maintaining a vital role in shaping the cultural and social landscape of the region. Today, they, along with other Native populations, continue to enrich Wisconsin’s Indigenous tapestry, weaving history with contemporary contributions.
In honor of Native American Heritage Month, Madison College is hosting a series of events themed “Indigenous Wisconsin: A Story of Resistance.” This theme celebrates the strength, creativity and perseverance of Native communities, focusing on important cultural topics such as treaties, education and pivotal resistance movements like the American Indian Movement (AIM) and Blood Quantum policies.
Native American Heritage Month Events at Madison College
Madison College's Native American Heritage Month programming challenges the community to move beyond performative gestures such as land acknowledgments and flag raisings. It calls for a deeper, more meaningful commitment to incorporating Indigenous knowledge and support into classrooms, businesses, and homes, fostering genuine partnerships with Native communities.
Through these events, Madison College and its partners seek to cultivate a deeper understanding and appreciation of Indigenous culture, encouraging the community to engage with the rich history and contemporary contributions of Native people in Wisconsin.
Art Show and Gallery Reception
This exhibition running Nov. 6 to Dec. 6 features the exceptional work of Native American artists from Wisconsin. The opening reception will take place November 14 from 4:30 to 7 p.m., offering the public an opportunity to engage with art that reflects the enduring spirit of Indigenous resistance.
Location
The art gallery is located on the mezzanine in the entrance of the Truax Building, 1701 Wright St. Guests may park in visitor or student lots
Beading Workshop
Artist Paige Skenandore will lead a hands-on beading workshop on November 13 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Location
Truax Campus, Interculturel Exchange Center
"Let's Mathematize!" Workshop
This interactive workshop on Nov. 16 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. will be led by RunningHorse Livingston, a nationally recognized consultant specializing in math instruction. The workshop will focus on culturally responsive strategies, particularly for Native American students, to enhance their engagement and success in mathematics.
Location
Goodman South Campus, 2429 Perry St.
Other Community Events Celebrating Native Culture
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Paper Basketmaking with Kimberly Crowley: 11 a.m. to noon on Nov. 9 at Hawthorne Library
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The KICC Anishinaabe Music Circle: 1 to 3 p.m. on Nov. 9 at Lakeview Library
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Growing Up Native in Wisconsin - Storytelling and Writing Workshop: 6 to 8 p.m. on Nov. 15 at Lakeview Library
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Native Art Market 2024: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Nov. 16 at the Arts + Literature Library
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Tales From Planet Earth – Bad River: 6 to 8:30 p.m. on Nov. 18 at Wisconsin Union Theater