Native November header stating 'rooted in reciprocity indigenous ways of knowing' on purple background

Native November

Rooted in Reciprocity: Indigenous Ways of Knowing

Indigenous Ways of Knowing is the practice of how sacred knowledge has been passed down since time immemorial, connecting individuals, communities, and cultures with the land. This knowledge runs like flowing streams, cascading from generation to generation. Rooted in relationships, it carries the wisdom of how to nurture the interdependence between ourselves and our environment.

This way of living isn’t an individualistic journey, but a mindful practice that contributes to reciprocal relationships between all existence. It involves knowing the land and honoring the oral histories held within it. It is found in ceremonies, cultural celebrations, and everyday experiences, including the ways we care for one another and the world around us. Indigenous Ways of Knowing reminds us that we are not separate from the land, but that we have a collective responsibility to protect, respect, and sustain it for future generations.

Native November is more than a month of awareness. It is an invitation to carry these teachings forward into our campus, our communities, and our everyday lives. Through events and gatherings, we hope to create opportunities for connection, understanding, and meaningful engagement with Indigenous perspectives and our shared responsibility to care for our home. The Indigenous Student Center Coalition invites the entire community to learn, listen, and reflect on Indigenous Ways of Knowing.

Indigenous Student Center Coalition

Special thanks to members of the Indigenous Student Center Coalition for making this programming possible

Advisor

Victoria Kahite

ISC Interns

Miles Kmiecik
Elicia Leonard

Members

Wunk Sheek

American Indian Science & Engineering Society

Indigenous Law Student Association

Tribal Libraries, Archives & Museums

The Indigenous Graduate Students

Twin Tails

Indigenous Student Center Coalition members pose with 2025 keynote, Bizhiki, a Wisconsin-based band.
Indigenous Student Center Coalition members pose with 2025 keynote, Bizhiki, a Wisconsin-based band.

Sponsors

  • Wisconsin Alumni Association
  • Native Nations UW
  • Tribal Relations
  • Rebecca M. Blank Center for Campus History
  • Residence Life
  • American Indian and Indigenous Studies
Native November Watermark

Questions? Contact us.

Special thanks to the 2026 Native November Planning Committee