Wednesday, Oct. 30 | 7-8:30 p.m.
Main Hall 201
Most people have heard of the Trail of Tears that five Native Nations suffered during the 1800s, but very few know that similar events dramatically altered life for Native People here in Wisconsin. This presentation will discuss the numerous forced removals that the Ho-Chunk People endured from 1832 to 1865 and the Indian Boarding School period that followed. Dr. Lewis will share oral histories from Ho-Chunk Elders about the removals, the boarding schools, and the long-lasting effects they caused. Attendees are encouraged to practice self-care during the presentation as the topics and stories will be challenging.
Dr. Marcus Lewis (he/him/his) is a proud citizen of the Ho-Chunk Nation and a Black cisgender male who has made significant strides as a higher education leader, educator, and advocate. With a deep commitment to promoting educational access and opportunities for underrepresented populations, Dr. Lewis has dedicated his career to fostering inclusive excellence.
As a sought-after keynote speaker and presenter, he shares his expertise with educational institutions, non-profit organizations, and the business sector. His unique blend of scholarly insight and practical experience allows him to tackle challenging topics with clarity and approachability, engaging audiences from diverse backgrounds. Dr. Lewis continues to inspire change and empower individuals through his passionate advocacy for equity in education for learners of all backgrounds and abilities.
This event is sponsored by the Ethnic Studies and History Departments and the Lawrence University Native Alliance (LUNA).