Madison Reporter

Madison Public Library is accepting applications for the Teejop & Beyond program from June 17 to July 15, 2024. Native individuals residing in Wisconsin are invited to apply to present during this annual celebration of Native nations, scheduled from October to December at the library.

Teejop & Beyond is hosted by Madison Public Library in partnership with Ho-Chunk Gaming Madison. The program features various Native artists, storytellers, and community leaders who lead events celebrating Indigenous people within and beyond Teejop (pronounced day-JOPE, meaning Four Lakes or Madison). Starting on Indigenous People's Day each year, participants conduct programs that highlight both traditional and contemporary practices, stories, and community relationships.

“In the past, this series has included art workshops, food demonstrations, youth storytimes, presentations, and more. Library staff are always excited to see what you come up with, and we hear repeatedly from the greater library community that they really enjoy these opportunities to listen, learn, create, and connect with you!” said Neeyati Shah, the Community Engagement Librarian coordinating the program.

Selected applicants will receive a $150 payment plus the cost of supplies per program. Multiple program ideas can be pitched when applying. Other payment options may be available in select cases. For questions before applying, interested individuals can email community@madisonpubliclibrary.org.

Suggested program categories include:

- Creation stories

- Cultural celebrations and seasonal customs

- Food, herbs, and crops

- Skills and crafts

- History: removals, returns, important figures

- Indigenous peoples in community or government

- Relationships between different nations or collective efforts towards decolonization

Applications can be submitted online at madpl.org/teejopandbeyond.

The Teejop & Beyond program is supported by the Friends of Madison Public Library.

Madison Public Library has been promoting education, literacy and community involvement for over 145 years. More information can be found at www.madisonpubliclibrary.org or @madisonpubliclibrary on Facebook and Instagram.