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LA CROSSE, Wis. (WEAU) – The 2024 Indigenous Peoples Day celebration in La Crosse began with the hoisting of the Ho-Chunk Nation flag. The celebration will feature many games, stalls and other indigenous activities. Ho-Chunk member Tracy Littlejohn says the day is important in celebrating Native American culture.
“We have so many people visiting here from so many different places, and they end up spending their day taking part in, seeing, buying and tasting all the great things we have to offer. “It’s really gratifying to see more people taking an interest in this area and exploring the indigenous culture of this region with everyone,” says Littlejohn.
One of the traditions important to indigenous cultures is lacrosse, a game that dates back to the 12th century.
“Last year, it was the first time in over 200 years that our traditional lacrosse game was played on a waterfront like this. It was truly an amazing experience, and we’ll do it again today,” Littlejohn said. says.
Minnesota Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan was one of the many people who visited La Crosse. Ms. Flanagan is the first Native American female lieutenant governor in U.S. history. For her, this day is a celebration of Indigenous peoples past, present and future.
“Indigenous culture and Indigenous communities are not only an important part of Wisconsin, but also an important part of neighboring Minnesota. I think visibility is really important, and that’s what today is all about.” says Flanagan.
Flanagan hopes events like this will continue to raise awareness of Indigenous culture.
“I think it’s really exciting for Native and non-Native people, especially young people, to come together and learn about each other. This is about valuing it and encouraging young people to understand where they live on the land, and to learn about each other.” It’s a reflection of letting people know that they’re still here,” Flanagan said.
In 2021, Joe Biden officially commemorated the holiday with a presidential proclamation, becoming the first US president to do so.
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