Ron DePerry

Citizen of the Quarter - October, November, December 2020

 

Ron is a Red Cliff Tribal Member, Elder, and Veteran who has served this community in a variety of ways for decades.

 

Ron returned to Miskwaabekong from military service in the late 1960's and began working as the Tribe's first Youth Coordinator. Ron was involved in the Teacher Corps program and received his degree from UW-Stevens Point. He worked with the First American Prevention Center and served as a resource for the Red Cliff and Bad River Indian Child Welfare Act Programs. Ron also served on the Red Cliff Tribal Council.

 

In 1969, Ron was involved in the eventual 1972 court decision known as Gurnoe vs. State of Wisconsin. Ron and six other tribal members were arrested after they set nets to test the Tribe's fishing rights in Buffalo Bay. The decision was ultimately ruled in favor of the Red Cliff Tribe (and other Chippewa Tribes). Ron is the last living tribal member of that original seven who took a massive chance to protect our rights.

 

Recently, Ron was able to attend the opening ceremony for the Red Cliff Fish Company -- a direct application of the fishing rights Ron fought for in 1969 and the early 1970's.

 

Ron was instrumental in keeping many Anishinaabe cultural traditions alive -- including birch bark artistry in the 1970's (even the making of canoes!). Ron has hosted gatherings to allow people to learn the art of making Hominy Corn in the traditional way. He has also made beautiful beadwork and leather work.

 

Ron was nominated by Jim Pete and was honored at the Red Cliff Tribal Council Meeting on February 16.

 

"I hope I've made a difference for the reservation and for those generations to come," Ron said.

 

Ron has two daughters, Melissa (who has passed away), Alicia, and granddaughter Ariana. Ron has been married to Patsy Ruth Basina DePerry since August 1976.

 

We are so fortunate to have Ron as an integral part of our community. He and so many other elders have dedicated so much to forming and shaping Red Cliff. The Red Cliff Tribal Council would like to say Chi Miigwech to Ron DePerry for all you have done, and continue to do, for the Red Cliff Community.

 

Do you know someone who deserves to be nominated for Citizen of the Quarter? Let us know!
Submit your nomination.