Oneida Indian Nation Homelands (January 14, 2026) — The Oneida Indian Nation has released its newest children’s book, Wísk Remembers, a warm and inspiring Onyotaʼa:ká: (Oneida) language-learning story that encourages readers of all ages to appreciate the beauty and teachings found in the natural world. Rooted in a traditional lesson about balance, gratitude, and mindfulness, the story reminds us that taking time to notice the world around us is essential to well-being.
Created in collaboration with Madison-Oneida BOCES, Wísk Remembers is the sixth book in this language-learning series and includes original illustrations by Mohawk Valley Community College graduate Isabella Liscomb. The book is presented with both the Onyotaʼa:ká: text and full English translation, along with highlighted vocabulary words and phonetic guides to help readers learn correct pronunciation. A QR code inside the book links to an online audio recording of the story in Oneida, as well as a behind-the-scenes look at the illustration process.
The Oneida Indian Nation’s Language Instructor, Chelsea Jocko (Wolf Clan), developed all Onyotaʼa:ká: language content and worked closely with Madison-Oneida BOCES to create an accurate English translation.
Wísk Remembers follows a family of chipmunks preparing for winter by gathering food. While his siblings tirelessly collect supplies, Wísk chooses to sit quietly, observing the colors, sounds, and scents of autumn. When the family finally shelters in their den for the winter, Wísk remains calm and content—grounded by the memories he gathered during the fall. His story serves as a reminder that while physical nourishment is important, so too is taking time to appreciate the natural world and care for our mental and emotional well-being.
“This book beautifully reflects one of our most important cultural teachings—that gratitude is not just something we speak, but something we practice,” said Ray Halbritter, Oneida Indian Nation Representative. “Wísk Remembers encourages young readers to slow down, observe, listen, and truly appreciate the gifts that surround them. We hope it inspires families, educators, and communities to embrace new opportunities and to strengthen their connection to the natural world.
“We are pleased to partner with the Oneida Indian Nation once again to support culturally grounded learning that extends far beyond the classroom,” said Rebecca Copp, Staff and Curriculum Development Director at Madison-Oneida BOCES. “With Wísk Remembers—and all of the books in this language learning series—we are helping expand access to the Onyotaʼa:ká: language for educators, students, and families across the region while reinforcing the value of collaboration and shared learning.”
This release is part of an ongoing educational partnership between the Oneida Indian Nation and Madison-Oneida BOCES, which also prints the books through its in-house publishing program. The Nation’s Education Programs Assistant Manager, Randy Phillips, shares these materials during school visits across the region, where he teaches students about Oneida and Haudenosaunee culture. During these visits, all 4th grade classes receive a copy of the book, helping ensure young learners can continue exploring the language after the lesson. Wísk Remembers—along with all other titles in the series—is also available to the community at the Nation’s Library and Early Learning Center.
As longtime neighbors and partners, the Oneida Indian Nation and Madison-Oneida BOCES have collaborated on a range of educational resources—including posters, flashcards, and annual calendars featuring new Oneida words and phrases—to support the Nationʼs language revitalization efforts.
