For more information contact:  

Valeria Davis or Lisa Marshall, Wisconsin Department of Tourism, 800/236-7529 

John Gulig, Wisconsin Welcome Center in Kenosha, 262/857-7164 

Kirby Metoxen, Oneida Nation, 920/490-5025

MEDIA ADVISORY

ONEIDA NATION PRESENTS EARTH-HEALING CEREMONIES AT WISCONSIN WELCOME CENTER IN KENOSHA

Native American Ceremonies Acknowledge and Support Victims of Recent Floods

MADISON, Wis. (June 26, 2008) - The Native American Tribes in Wisconsin have been fortunate to have been blessed with lush forests, beautiful lakes and streams and abundant wildlife in their homeland, here in Wisconsin. For centuries they have given thanks for the endless bounty our creator provided. In giving thanks, Wisconsin Tribes acknowledge their responsibility to care for the land. Wisconsin Tribes share in the heartache of many Wisconsin families who have been victims of devastating floods and excessive storm damage throughout the state. The Great Lakes Inter-Tribal Council, a consortium of Wisconsin Tribes, have been asked to show support for the victims of Wisconsin's recent severe weather and flooding by offering prayers and ceremonies to restore the lands and preserve the natural resources.

Friday, the Oneida Nation will offer traditional ceremonies at the Wisconsin Welcome Center located in Kenosha. The two ceremonies will include tobacco burning and prayers, veterans' color guard, and will also share cultural songs and dances. The focus of the prayers is to acknowledge, support and provide well wishes for all of the state's flooding victims. These ceremonies are open to the public and everyone is welcome to participate.

Who: Oneida Nation

What: Native American tribal earth-healing ceremonies

When: 

Friday, June 27 

11:00 am and 1:00 pm 

Both ceremonies will last approximately 1 to 1½ hours

 

Where: 

Wisconsin Welcome Center, Kenosha 

Interstate 94 Rest Area (Wisconsin-Illinois state line) 

10519 120th Avenue 

Pleasant Prairie, WI

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