Act 31 and Title 7

Act 31 is the 1989 Wisconsin Education Act requiring all schools to teach history, culture, and current events of the 11 federally recognized tribes in Wisconsin. Title VII refers to Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, a federal law that prohibits employers from discriminating against employees or applicants based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin

Title 7: Why it is Important

  • Supports Native students academically.
  • Funds language and cultural programs. 
  • Strengthens identity and student access.

Why Act 31 it Exists and Why it is Needed

  • To correct misinformation, including harmful stereotypes toward Native people. 
  • To ensure accurate teaching of Native history and include their voices in the state curriculum.
  • To promote respect and understanding, therefore building statewide cultural respect.
  • To meet obligations about teaching tribal sovereignty and help students understand what that means.