Rep. Danielle Delong (D4) arranged to hold the first public conversation on the issues of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the Ho-Chunk Nation on Thursday. After a round of introductions, the group selected Tracy Littlejohn to lead the workgroup.

A majority of the discussion was focused on ability and gender. One tribal member pointed out that we are a predominantly ableist society that doesn’t often consider the needs and contributions of people with complex abilities. Another tribal member discussed a daughter’s experience while filling a government form; that form had only male or female and did not recognize that people would like to indicate other sexes or genders.

The group acknowledged that it will take up a variety of topics and is encouraging youth to participate in the conversation at future meetings. The next meeting of the workgroup will be in November. Tribal members of all ages and employees are welcome to attend.