Racine Dominican Eagle Dedication and Blessing - Honoring Indigenous Peoples and the Land
The Racine Dominican Sisters and Associates gathered at Siena in Racine on October 20, 2026 for a special eagle statue dedication and land acknowledgment ceremony, honoring the Indigenous Peoples who cared for the land on which the Sisters now reside.
The ceremony brought together members of the Sisters of St. Dominic in Racine and the Congregation of the Great Spirit in Milwaukee for a time of prayer, reflection and cultural traditions. The dedication comes at a meaningful time, as November marks Native American Heritage Month, an opportunity to recognize the histories, cultures and contributions of Indigenous Peoples.
Gifted by an anonymous donor, the eagle was carved by a Native American artist and placed on a marble base made from the original stone of a former wing at Siena. The combination is a meaningful joining of histories: the artistry reflects Indigenous cultural heritage, while the marble carries a piece of the Sisters’ own story. Together, the statue and its base serve as a physical reminder that the history of this place extends beyond any one community or generation.
“By dedicating this eagle statue, we are taking time to recognize the people who came before us and honor our connection to the land we call home,” said Racine Dominican S. Diane Poplawski. “This gathering is an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the history of this sacred place and reaffirm our commitment to relationships rooted in respect, understanding and care for one another and the land.”
The Racine Dominicans were honored to welcome members of the Congregation of the Great Spirit, who shared their traditions through prayer in a Native language, a smudging ceremony and a drum honor song. During the smudging ceremony, sacred medicinal plants were burned, and the smoke was gently brushed throughout the space and among those who gathered as a practice of cleansing and spiritual connection. The drum honor song offered another meaningful expression of Indigenous culture and spirituality, bringing those gathered together in a moment of reflection and respect.
The ceremony was moving for the Sisters, Associates, Staff and friends that gathered, and it was equally impactful for the members of the Congregation of the Great Spirit. “It is important to remember and honor the Indigenous Peoples who have cared for this land and maintained their connections to it across generations. Gathering in prayer and sharing Native cultural traditions helps ensure that Indigenous history and heritage are recognized and respected,” said Father Ed Cook, pastor of the Congregation of the Great Spirit.
Through the dedication, the Racine Dominicans seek to honor the past while encouraging continued reflection on the responsibilities people share in caring for one another and the land.