We are thrilled to be working with the Hoocąk Waaziija Haci (Ho-Chunk) Language Division in Tomah, Wisconsin as part of the Recollection Wisconsin Digitization Initiative. Their project includes organizing, digitizing, creating descriptive information and preserving their language learning materials, and hosting some materials in Mukurtu, (MOOK-oo-too), a grassroots project aiming to empower Indigenous communities to manage, share, and exchange their digital heritage in culturally relevant and ethically minded ways.
Joining Team Hoocąk Waaziija Haci Language Division is Kierstin Wagner, a University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee graduate student focusing on archival studies. Drawing from a background in psychology and public libraries, Kierstin’s passion lies in bridging connections between people and valuable information resources. In her graduate coursework and fieldwork, Kierstin is learning how to leverage information technology and archival practices to ensure the preservation of and access to historical records.
She currently lives in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. In her free time, Kierstin enjoys traveling, experimenting in the kitchen, and cultivating joy in her garden.
Kierstin’s host site supervisor is Hiwicožų (Samson) Falcon. As a Hoocąk linguist and supervisor, Hiwicožų is deeply committed to the revitalization of the Hoocąk language. He’s spent the past 14 years in various roles within the community including teaching, community activities and language engagement focused on reversing the language shift in Hoocąk communities. With a focus on promoting 21st-century usage of the Hoocąk language, Hiwicožų actively contributes to the preservation and daily use of the language.
He’s served as the Language Apprentice Program (LAP) manager and an Apprentice Supervisor for the Hoocąk Waazijaci Language Division and Lead Teacher for the Ho-Chunk Nation Head Start Program.
Ahuginaiwi (Adrienne) Thunder, Language Division Program Manager, also provides support for the project and team! We are grateful for Hiwicožų and Ahuginaiwi, and their expertise and commitment to this work.
The Hoocąk Waaziija Haci Language Division is dedicated to ensuring that the Hoocąk language continues to be a “living language.” As a sign of respect to their elders and the speakers that have come before them, they will continue to speak the Hoocąk language, celebrate customs, respect the Hoocąk value system and teach future generations the “Hoocąk way of life.”
You can learn more about the Hoocąk Waaziija Haci Language Division and its work to preserve and share the Hoocąk language on their division website. Our hearty thanks to Kierstin Wagner, Hiwicožų Falcon and Ahuginaiwi Thunder for their excellent work on this project.
Interested in participating in the Recollection Wisconsin Digitization Initiative? Visit our program website for more information.
