Madison Reporter

The Madison Public Library, in collaboration with Ho-Chunk Gaming Madison, is set to host the Teejop & Beyond program series starting on Indigenous Peoples’ Day, October 14. This event aims to celebrate Native Nations through a variety of presentations and hands-on activities.

Throughout October and November, six presenters from various Native tribes will conduct sessions covering topics such as Native citizenship, the recent canoe discoveries in Lake Mendota, and the art of making musical instruments. Sherman Funmaker, a returning presenter who has shared his insights on growing up Native in Wisconsin for two consecutive years, expressed his enthusiasm: “I enjoy speaking and sharing stories and the Madison Public libraries have given me many opportunities to do so."

Attendees can also participate in crafting activities like beading and basket weaving. One past participant remarked on the significance of these programs: “It was meaningful to me because I am a tribal citizen (Odawa from MI) and never learned to bead.”

This year's presenters include Kimberly Crowley from the Ho-Chunk Nation's Thunder Clan, Torey Dolan of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, Sherman Funmaker from the Ho-Chunk Nation's Bear Clan Elder group, Dawn Moneyhan representing Little River Band of Ottawa Indians, Yvette Peguero as Menominee Tribe Elder, and Bill Quackenbush from the Ho-Chunk Nation's Deer Clan.

Neeyati Shah, Community Engagement Librarian at Madison Public Library stated: "It's so exciting to welcome a mix of new and returning presenters for the series this year."

The program includes events such as "Reflecting on 100 Years of Indian Citizenship" on October 17 via virtual platform and "Black Ash Basketmaking" at Central Library on October 28. Registration is required for certain events.

Further details about Teejop & Beyond can be found online at madpl.org/teejopandbeyond. The initiative is supported by Friends of Madison Public Library.