Youth in the Menominee Nation/County can now say the 4-H pledge in their native language, giving them a chance to build their vocabulary and grow their confidence.
“Our language connects us to our ancestors and our shared history. Speaking it brings a deep sense of pride and belonging,” said Menominee Nation/County 4-H educator Sofie Teller. “For some, this is their first opportunity to hear, learn, and speak the language in a meaningful way. Creating those moments within 4-H helps strengthen cultural identity and ensures our language continues to live on through the next generation.”
Menominee elder John Teller translated the 4-H pledge. “I made the words simple so the students could easily memorize the pledge and I added some Menominee thinking,” he said.
Nenaeqtakiahtan (I dedicate),
Nes, nekataw-maehnow-enaenehtam (My head, I will think in a good way).
Netaeh, kataw-tatāhkesew (My heart, will be strong).
Nenaehkan, Nekataw-nātamowawak pemātesewak (My hands, I will help the people).
Nekataw-maehnow-pemātesem, kataew-maehnow-kemaenaeqtamenoq Omaeqnomenewak (I will live well, it will be a good future for the Menominees).
For youth, bringing together their culture with 4-H programs sparks confidence that shows up in their interaction in group activities and the community.
The parents of one shy Menominee 4-H club member found confidence through a 4-H theater and storytelling project, where she made friends and took on responsibilities like stage management, Teller said. “Those 4-H experiences helped her feel more comfortable and confident in group settings.”
A local teacher shared how, during a unit on tribal legislative government, a student raised their hand and said the lesson reminded them of 4-H.
“Moments like these show me that what we’re teaching goes beyond projects and meetings — it’s shaping how young people understand leadership, community and their role in the world,” Teller said.