A proposal is under consideration to establish Indigenous Peoples Day as an official holiday in Dane County, according to the Wisconsin State Journal. The plan, scheduled for a vote before the County Board, aims to designate the second Monday of October as a holiday for county employees. The intent is to encourage reflection and celebration of Indigenous people, acknowledging the area’s Native American history and addressing historical injustices. Proposed by Sup. Rick Rose of Madison’s far east side, the vote may take place at the board’s Dec. 21 meeting, although this is uncertain.
Beyond the holiday proposal, there are discussions within the board about purchasing Indigenous artists’ works for display in the City-County Building. Additionally, the county budget for the next year includes a $2 million contribution toward the construction of a new Ho-Chunk History Center.
However, not all members of the board are in favor of the new holiday. Sup. Tim Kiefer expresses opposition, citing concerns about its potential impact on the court system. He argues that the lack of weekend court means those arrested on the Friday before the holiday or over the weekend won’t have a bail hearing until the following Tuesday. Kiefer is also concerned about the disruption to jury selection and potential setbacks in the criminal justice system.
