The Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation is set to take ownership of Shabbona Lake State Park in a historic move that seeks to rectify a nearly 200-year-old injustice. The state of Illinois will transfer the park to the Nation, located in DeKalb County, which became the first federally recognized Native American nation in the state last year.
Restoring Justice
Nearly 175 years ago, the land on which Shabbona Lake State Park sits was illegally seized and auctioned off by the United States government, violating multiple treaties with the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation. State officials have acknowledged this historic wrong and are taking steps to return the land to its rightful owners.
State Rep. Will Guzzardi, a cosponsor of the legislation, emphasized the importance of correcting past injustices. He highlighted the trauma endured by the indigenous population and expressed pride in joining forces with indigenous advocates to support the transfer of the park to the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation.
Commitment to Conservation
According to the Chicago Sun-Times, the legislation mandates that the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation maintain the land as a public conservation area. This commitment to preserving the park ensures that it will remain open to the public, allowing visitors to enjoy its natural beauty and recreational activities.
Chairman Joseph ‘Zeke’ Rupnick of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation expressed gratitude for the support of the Illinois Legislature and the dedication of those involved in making this historic vote possible. By returning the land to its rightful owners, Illinois is taking a significant step towards righting the wrongs of the past and honoring indigenous rights and protections.
Preserving Natural Beauty
Shabbona Lake State Park, spanning over 1,500 acres of prairie land and featuring a 318-acre man-made fishing lake, offers a diverse array of plant life and bird species for visitors to observe. The park also includes amenities such as a campground and recreational opportunities like cross-country skiing and snowmobiling during the winter months.
In April 2024, the federal government officially recognized the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, allowing them to exercise sovereignty over their land. The transfer of Shabbona Lake State Park to the Nation is a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to address historical injustices and support indigenous communities.
Through this transfer, Illinois is acknowledging the importance of honoring treaties and commitments made to Native American nations, paving the way for a more inclusive and just future for all.
