Public Hearing on State Bills to Increase Number of Native American History Classes in School, Allowing Tribal Regalia at Events

Friday, October 27th, 2023 -- 9:11 AM

(Raymond Neupert, WRN) A public hearing at the capitol Thursday on legislation related to Native American students and education.

At the Capitol on Thursday, the state assembly's education committee took testimony on several bills about Native American curriculum and students. Oneida Nation Secretary Lisa Liggins spoke in favor of increasing the amount of Native American studies students would have to complete during their school careers.

"The Oneida Nation feels it's necessary for our schools in the state of Wisconsin to have those minimum academic standards and correct resources when teaching about the first people of this land."

Liggins also said, "These are often considered sacred traditions, symbols of achievement and connect them with their tribal communities. This change is meant to ensure that the protections afforded under the current law clearly provide for that tribal regalia."
 
Other bills would increase the classes all students take on Native American history and culture and improve the way schools report the progress of Native students in their districts.

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