Baraboo, WI – Wisconsin officials and Tribal leaders gathered Thursday to unveil the newest set of Ho-Chunk dual-language highway signs now being installed across several counties. The signs, part of the Wisconsin Department of Transportation’s Dual-Language Sign Program, identify Ho-Chunk communities and the Mississippi River in both Ho-Chunk and English.
According to the Office of Governor Tony Evers, the unveiling event took place at the Ho-Chunk House of Wellness and continues a statewide effort launched in 2021 to collaborate with Tribal Nations on bilingual roadway markers. The Ho-Chunk Nation is now the ninth Tribe in the state to participate.
The newly revealed signs feature the Ho-Chunk Nation seal and names for five Tribal communities, including “Mąą Wakącąk,” meaning “Sacred Earth,” and “Zaagi ciinąk,” meaning “Sauk Village.” Additional signage will identify the Mississippi River in Crawford County.
Gov. Evers said the initiative highlights Wisconsin’s commitment to recognizing the Indigenous Nations who have shaped the region. “Every dual-language sign we install is a shared decision, built through collaboration, consultation, and mutual respect,” he said.
Ho-Chunk Nation President Jon Greendeer emphasized the cultural importance of restoring traditional names to the landscape. “These signs are a restoration of our Ho-Chunk identity, our language, and our responsibility to future generations,” he said.
WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman added that the effort supports both Tribal sovereignty and language revitalization.
The announcement follows other recent collaborations, including the designation of Interstate 90 between La Crosse and Tomah as the “Ho-Chunk World War II Code Talkers Memorial Highway,” honoring Tribal veterans.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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