On Friday, October 9, the Ho-Chunk Nation gathered for its annual Green Corn Celebration behind the tribal office building in Black River Falls.

     The celebration featured traditional foods, demonstrations and opportunities for community members to learn from crafters and wisdom keepers. The gathering emphasized the importance of maintaining traditional practices and passing knowledge on to future generations.

     Ho-Chunk Nation President Jon Greendeer addressed attendees, thanking those who contributed to the celebration, including the individuals who harvested and prepared the food.

     "Our food has a story," Greendeer said, reflecting on the importance of understanding where traditional foods come from and the work involved in gathering them.

     Greendeer shared traditional Ho-Chunk practices surrounding meals, explaining that children were historically served first, followed by elders, warriors and veterans.

     He also recognized the contributions of traditional leaders, clan workers and the Ho-Chunk Nation's Health and Wellness and Community Health staff, who helped prepare and facilitate the evening meal.

     "This isn't the only time this has to be done in a year," Greendeer said. "If you're ever grateful for the things that you have, things that you've grown, gathered, hunted, fish, snagged, you know, you can talk to the creator, and have one of these, and show that appreciation."

     The celebration concluded with a community meal and dance prepared with the help of clan workers and Ho-Chunk Nation staff.