Wisconsin Senate Bill SJR62

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/8/23
• Refer: 9/8/23
• Engrossed: 10/17/23
• Refer: 11/8/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Honoring the life and legacy of Ada Deer.

Impact

The resolution recognizes Deer's extensive contributions to various aspects of society, including her roles in restoring federal recognition for the Menominee Tribe and her influence in creating social work programs aimed at better serving Indigenous communities. By honoring her legacy, the resolution highlights the importance of her values, which continue to resonate within state and federal policies surrounding Indigenous rights and social services.

Summary

SJR62 is a Senate Joint Resolution honoring the life and legacy of Ada Deer, a prominent advocate for Indigenous rights and social justice. Introduced on September 8, 2023, the resolution commemorates Ada Deer's lifelong dedication to improving the lives of Indigenous peoples and promoting social equity. Noteworthily, Deer was the first Menominee member to earn a college degree and held significant positions, such as the Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Department of the Interior, marking her importance in public service and advocacy for tribal sovereignty.

Contention

While the resolution itself is celebratory, it implicitly calls for ongoing commitment to the issues Deer championed, such as inclusivity, social justice, and Indigenous rights. This may bring forth debates on the effectiveness of current policies aimed at these issues and the need for more robust measures to honor Deer's legacy. The recognition might also prompt discussions about the state’s responsibility to uphold the rights and welfare of Indigenous communities, especially in the face of historical injustices.