Newly Constructed Medicine Wheel Dedicated
The University of Wisconsin-Superior will hold a dedication ceremony on Indigenous People’s Day, Monday, Oct. 8, at 4:30 p.m. for the Maawanji’idiwin – “The Place Where We Come Together” Medicine Wheel and Community Gathering Area the university has constructed in the courtyard near the Yellowjacket Union.
Following the ceremony, there will be a free 90-minute educational program presented by Woodland Sky Native American Dance Company at 6 p.m. in Thorpe Langley Auditorium located in Old Main. Both family friendly events are free and open to the public.
“We created the Medicine Wheel – a sacred Native American symbol – not only to pay honor to the Ojibwe people, whose land UWS inhabits, but also to provide a cultural and educational gathering space for all,” said Kat Werchouski, assistant director for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion and member of the project design team. “The project has brought together a variety of crucial voices and allies across the campus and is a perfect example of the university’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.”
Benches and educational signage are being placed around the Medicine Wheel and the existing Spirit Pole, which is adjacent to it, to create an inviting space for people to just sit and reflect, find healing and guidance, or practice traditional ways of prayer and offering. The Medicine Wheel is the first of its kind at any four-year college campus in the area.
