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, according to a press release from the band.
The center encompasses nearly two acres of land along Trout Lake and has been used as an event and retreat venue by the La Crosse-based FSPA. A Lac du Flambeau spokesperson said the tribe has not decided yet how it will use the facility. Possibilities such as housing or a cultural center have been discussed.
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, according to the release.
The transfer will formally take place at noon on Friday, October 31. 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.
