Madison Reporter

The University of Wisconsin–Madison's Indigenous community centered this year's Native November around the theme "Love is…", celebrating how Indigenous people express love for their culture. The events throughout November were organized by UW–Madison’s Indigenous Student Center and the Indigenous Student Center Coalition, which includes six student organizations.

The month-long celebration began with the annual Kickoff Feast on November 4, featuring a barbecue dinner and performances by Twin Tails, a student-led drum group. The event took place at the Red Gym, with food provided by Ho Chunk-owned BP Smokehouse from Tomah, Wisconsin.

Lakota Native Jana Schmieding, an actor, comedian, and writer, was this year’s keynote speaker. On November 15, she participated in a discussion moderated by UW–Madison students on topics such as Indigenous visibility and her career. Schmieding also engaged with Wunk Sheek leadership before her presentation at Memorial Union’s Play Circle Theater.

On November 17, current Indigenous students and alumni gathered for the Native November Alumni Social. The event featured a talk by Michelle Greendeer, a UW–Madison alumna and Badger parent. It was hosted by the student organization Indigenous Graduate Students in collaboration with Cooweja and the Indigenous Student Center.

The Nelson Institute held a free screening of “Bad River” on November 18. This documentary highlights the Bad River Band's fight for sovereignty. A Q&A session followed with tribal members Aurora Conley, Misty Jackson, and Patty Loew participating.