- Details
- By Kaili Berg
LA CROSSE, Wisc. — On Monday, October 14, 2024, the City of La Crosse hosted its annual Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebration in partnership with the Ho-Chunk Nation, marking a day of cultural appreciation, education, and community engagement.
Held at the La Crosse Center and Riverside Park, the event featured a wide range of activities, performances, and educational opportunities, all designed to celebrate the history, traditions, and contributions of Indigenous peoples, especially the Ho-Chunk Nation.
Indigenous Peoples' Day is a crucial observance that replaces Columbus Day in many areas to honor the true history of Indigenous peoples and acknowledge the impact of colonization. This day encourages people to reflect on Indigenous resilience, contributions to society, and the ongoing struggles for sovereignty and cultural preservation.
The day began with a lacrosse tournament, a sport deeply rooted in Indigenous tradition, at Riverside Park. Following the tournament registration, the day’s educational programming kicked off at the La Crosse Public Library, where Dr. Ariel Beaujot presented A Story of Resistance to Colonization in the City We Now Call La Crosse.
A ceremonial flag raising and proclamation at Pearl Street Walkway further signified the importance of the day, followed by a welcoming address by Jon Greendeer, Ho-Chunk Nation President, at the La Crosse Center.
Throughout the day, attendees enjoyed various performances, including the Hoocąk Exhibition Dancing and the Majestic Monarch dance team, which brought traditional music and dance to life in South Hall.
Notably, performances by Sampson Funmaker (flute solo) and Irene Keenan Jr. highlighted the depth of Indigenous talent in the arts. The event also featured short educational talks by Josie Lee, Director of the Ho-Chunk Museum & Cultural Center, who discussed the importance of cultural preservation and education.
In addition to performances, the event included several educational components. A native plants and trees identification walk, led by Dr. Alysa Rembsurg, offered a hands-on learning experience about the local flora and their importance in Indigenous culture.
Guests were also invited to explore information booths and listen to readings by Indigenous authors such as Corey Rae White and Irene Keenan Jr., who read from their respective works. The celebration concluded with a performance by Irene Keenan Jr.
By celebrating the traditions, history, and contributions of Indigenous peoples, the event promoted greater understanding and respect in the community. As La Crosse continues to observe Indigenous Peoples' Day, it sets an example for fostering unity and recognizing the vital role of Indigenous cultures in shaping the future.
More Stories Like This
Native News Weekly (August 25, 2024): D.C. BriefsUS Presidents in Their Own Words Concerning American Indians
NDAA passes House; Lumbee Fairness Act Advances
NFL, Vikings to Host Native All-American Game, Youth Flag Clinic
Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Passes 12 Bills to Strengthen Tribal Communities
Help us defend tribal sovereignty.
At Native News Online, our mission is rooted in telling the stories that strengthen sovereignty and uplift Indigenous voices — not just at year’s end, but every single day.
Because of your generosity last year, we were able to keep our reporters on the ground in tribal communities, at national gatherings and in the halls of Congress — covering the issues that matter most to Indian Country: sovereignty, culture, education, health and economic opportunity.
That support sustained us through a tough year in 2025. Now, as we look to the year ahead, we need your help right now to ensure warrior journalism remains strong — reporting that defends tribal sovereignty, amplifies Native truth, and holds power accountable.
The stakes couldn't be higher. Your support keeps Native voices heard, Native stories told and Native sovereignty defended.
Stand with Warrior Journalism today.
Levi Rickert (Potawatomi), Editor & Publisher
