A historic first: Catholic institution returns tribal land back to Lac du Flambeau tribe

For the first time ever a catholic institution has returned northern Wisconsin land to a tribal nation as an act of reparations, marking a new path forward. (WAOW via CNN Newsource)

ARBOR VITAE, Wisconsin -- For the first time ever, a Catholic institution has returned northern Wisconsin land to a tribal nation as an act of reparations, marking a new path forward.

It was a day of reflection, healing, and history.

The Franciscan sisters transferred the Maywood property back to the Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians.

“This means for us the opportunity to step into acknowledging our part in the trauma that has occurred over all of these decades with having running a boarding school,” says Sue Ernster, president of the Franciscan Sister of Perpetual Adoration.

They say the property once stood as a symbol of colonialism and separation - tied to the painful legacy of residential boarding schools that stripped away tribal children from their language and culture.

“An opportunity for us to really step into who we say we are as those who believe in right relationships and trying to develop right relationships,” says Ernster.

The ceremony included a blessing to honour the returned land, drumming of a traditional tribal song and speeches from leaders from both sides, all centred on healing and mutual respect.

“You can acknowledge and you can say things but to actually put action into your words is really important. And that’s what we are seeing today,” says Araia Breedlove, Lac du Flambeau Tribe public relations director.

For many, it was a deeply emotional moment, not just about land, but legacy.

“Knowing that now I get to look at my grandchildren and show them that this is what they did to try and reconcile what they did on our reservation,” says Breedlove.

Tribal leaders say they hope to turn it into a place for spiritual events and education.

“All we’re really trying to do is trying to bring the Ojibwe culture right back to this land,” says Breedlove.

They hope this moment sparks change – inspiring other institutions to take this step as well.

“This is a path of healing and moving forward. And hopefully we can see this ripple effect throughout the country,” says Breedlove.

As the sound of drums carried through the ceremony, they echoed more than history - to them it echoed hope, culture and tradition.

They say it’s a powerful reminder that healing begins when truth is acknowledged, and when words are turned into action.