Did you know that ICS students are the reason that Indigenous Peoples Day is celebrated throughout the state of Wisconsin?

In 2016, fourth grade students from Indian Community School saw something they didn’t like in learning about Columbus Day.  With the help of their teachers, our amazing ten-year-olds drafted a resolution that was approved by the Milwaukee County Board, recognizing Indigenous Peoples Day in Milwaukee!  That October, our school celebrated Indigenous Peoples Day at our school, with elected officials and tribal leadership from many of Wisconsin’s tribes.

The following year, in 2017, ICS students testified and held a rally in Madison at the Wisconsin State Capitol Building. They were joined by Milwaukee Representatives David Bowen and Lena Taylor, in support of a bill that declared the second Monday in October as Indigenous Peoples Day.  The Bill did not pass but our students never gave up hope!

In 2019, Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers signed Executive Order No. 48 here at Indian Community School, declaring the second Monday in October as Indigenous Peoples Day, throughout Wisconsin!  Our entire school and tribal leaders from across the state witnessed the signing here in our Drum. Three days later, our school was invited to the renaming of a Milwaukee County Park from Columbus Park to Indigenous People’s Park.  Once again, our students, families, community and our school gathered to unveil and celebrate another historic accomplishment! 

The following year, during the COVID pandemic when many schools closed, ICS found a way to keep our students learning. In Fall of 2020, the Governor honored our school and our courageous students by featuring them in a video on October 12, 2020.

For 55 years, Indian Community School has represented Indian-controlled education, so when we say, “everyday is Indigenous Peoples Day at ICS,”  it really is!  We take special pride in the work and determination of our students who made Indigenous Peoples Day a reality for everyone in our state. Their efforts have made it possible for other children in other Wisconsin schools, to learn about, appreciate, and celebrate Native culture and ways. Hopefully, their work will inspire others across the country to do the same!