AUTHORIZING THE HO-CHUNK FLAG TO BE DISPLAYED IN THE SAUK COUNTY BOARD ROOM GALLERY

In early 2018, Sauk County applied to the Local Government Institute’s Future Regions initiative. The five Chambers of Commerce (Wisconsin Dells-Lake Delton, Baraboo, Reedsburg, Sauk-Prairie, and Spring Green) also endorsed and jointly support this effort. Once accepted into this, One Sauk, Naturally was created. The intent of this initiative is to promote collaboration, cooperation, preservation, and utilization of those assets to create and distinguish Sauk County as a unique place to live, work and recreate. One Sauk, Naturally was sponsored by Sauk County and the Ho-Chunk Nation. With the involvement of both organizations, a partnership was formed spurring collaboration and understanding between them.

Per resolution 132-2018, the Sauk County Board of Supervisors recognizes the second Monday in October as Indigenous Peoples’ Day in Sauk County. This resolution and Sauk County’s One Sauk, Naturally initiative are designed to bring Sauk County and the Ho-Chunk Nation closer in partnership.

As the descendants of the original inhabitants of this land, Indigenous People, particularly members of the Ho-Chunk Nation, remain on their ancestral homelands and have a special place among the varied cultures and beliefs of the residents of Sauk County. From Indigenous Peoples’ Day 2019 forward, Sauk County will display the Ho-Chunk Nation’s flag in the Sauk County Board Room gallery as a symbol of coming together and supporting each other.