LAC COURTE OREILLES, Wis. – Friday, May 1 marked a historic milestone for the Lac Courte Oreilles (LCO) Band of Lake Superior Ojibwe, which became the 10th tribe in Wisconsin to install dual-language road signs in Ojibwe and English. The event, attended by tribal leaders, state officials, and community members, celebrated ongoing efforts to revitalize Indigenous language and culture. 

The event was held at the LCO Ojibwe University Cultural Center, where the LCO Badger Singers opened the program with a welcome song. The LCO AMVETS Post presented the nations’ flags, and Hannah Orie delivered the invocation. LCO Chairman Gary Clause emphasized the importance of preserving language and culture, saying those efforts are deeply rooted in the tribe’s identity and history. He also recognized the work of multiple departments and thanked elders, veterans, and community leaders for their support, noting that bringing Ojibwe into public spaces helps strengthen the community and connect younger generations to their heritage.

 

Governor Tony Evers reaffirmed the state’s commitment to supporting tribal sovereignty and language revitalization. He said the dual-language sign initiative brings the Ojibwe language beyond the classroom and into everyday life, helping foster broader awareness and understanding across the region. Evers also noted that the state budget includes annual funding for all 11 federally recognized tribes in Wisconsin to support tribal programs and language initiatives, and he highlighted recent transportation investments benefiting tribal communities.

 

The event concluded with state and tribal leaders unveiling the new signs, symbolizing a shared commitment to honoring Indigenous heritage and strengthening partnerships for the future.

 

The signs are being placed at the reservation boundary on Hwy 27 near Fleming Way Road.

 

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