02/20/2026
The 2026 State of the Tribes Address
On February 10th, the Wisconsin State Capitol welcomed Chairwoman Nicole Boyd of the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa for the 22nd annual State of the Tribes Address. Speaking on behalf of all 11 federally recognized tribal nations in Wisconsin, Chairwoman Boyd delivered a powerful message of resilience, stewardship, and the vital importance of tribal sovereignty.
Key highlights from this year's address included:
· Environmental Protection: A call to protect our Great Lakes from aging pipelines and a proposal to officially recognize Manoomin (wild rice) as the Wisconsin State Grain.
· Health & Safety: Recognition of the new GLITC Adolescent Treatment Center, alongside an urgent call for resources to address the crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women.
· Policy & Progress: Advocacy for the legalization of medical cannabis to manage chronic pain and the expansion of tribal gaming to include online sports betting to fund elder care and housing.
· Investing in the Future: Support for "Healthy School Meals for
All" and increased funding for tribal colleges to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed.
As Chairwoman Boyd reminded us, the tribes are not just independent nations; they are essential partners in building a fairer, healthier, and more sustainable Wisconsin for everyone.
