Native American Leaders Call For Burial Site Preservation Across Wisconsin

Wisconsin’s tribal leaders Tuesday urged lawmakers to preserve Native American burial sites across the state.

During annual State of the Tribes address before the state Legislature, Stockbridge–Munsee Community President Shannon Holsey called for preservation of the sites.

“We would never dream of disturbing a mausoleum or a cemetery, why would not the same respect and reverence be given to Native American ceremonial and sacred burial sites,” Holsey said.

A bill introduced in the Legislature last session would have lifted some protections on burial sites. It did not pass.

Holsey also called for increased collaboration between state and tribal leaders on issues including education, broadband internet access and conservation.