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Historic Land Return
October 24, 2025
The Marywood Franciscan Spirituality Center has transferred their land back to the First Peoples of Lac du Flambeau.
On October 31, 2025, at noon, the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration (FSPA) will formally transfer the Marywood Franciscan Spirituality Center property in Arbor Vitae, Wisconsin, to the Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians, the original caretakers of the land.
This moment marks the first known transfer of land from a Catholic institution to a Tribal Nation as an act of reparations for colonialism and the legacy of residential boarding schools.
Tribal leaders and representatives from the Franciscan Sisters will gather at Marywood for a ceremonial signing and blessing to honor this return and acknowledge the shared commitment to healing, relationship, and stewardship of the land.
This event stands as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the Waaswaaganing people and the importance of truth, reconciliation, and partnership in restoring balance for future generations.
Congrats and thanks to the FSPAs for leading by example. Read more here.
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Cosmology & Creation