ROTHSCHILD, Wis. (WSAW) – People will have the opportunity to celebrate and learn about indigenous cultures for free this weekend in Rothschild.
It’s another year of the Central Wisconsin Indigenous Peoples’ Day Pow Wow & Native American Art Market. Indigenous dancers and over 50 craft and food vendors are coming to The Central Wisconsin Convention & Expo Center. The craft vendors will represent around 19 indigenous nations, bringing with them items like jewelry, woodwork, ribbon, skirts, and more. There will even be food vendors. If you’re hungry, you can try food like Frybread, wild rice dishes, and other tasty treats.
“It is a day to celebrate the continued existence of indigenous people, our contributions to society, our history, the fact that we have our tribal sovereignty, government, our culture and the fact that we are still here,” said Tricia Zunker, Director of the Central Wisconsin Indigenous Peoples’ Day Committee.
Knowledge is power. 19 different tribes are coming together at the convention center to educate others about their culture. Wisconsin has 12 tribes, and a lot of people do not realize the differences between them. Each has their own tribal sovereignty, government, and culture. It’s important to recognize that they are still here. Organizer Tricia Zunker tells us about her tribe.
“I’m Ho-Chunk, and my tribe has its own government, its own language, its own customs and traditions that are different from some of the other tribes, but I think the greater point is just a celebration of indigenous people,” said Zunker.
Doors open at 10 a.m. both days. Grand entry will be at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday. These are the times the dancers will enter and fill the arena. A free feast for everyone by Ho-Chunk cooks will begin at 5 p.m. on Saturday. If you miss Saturday, you’ll have another chance Sunday. Grand entry is at 1 p.m.
The Central Wisconsin Convention & Expo Center is located at 10101 Market Street, Rothschild.
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