Bio

Joey Awonohopay is the Chairman of the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin. He is a lifelong advocate for Indigenous language, culture, and education. He is the grandson of Johnson and Francis Awonohopay (Kaehnap) and currently lives where the rivers fork on his ancestral homeland.

Before being elected Chairman of the Menominee Nation, Chairman Awonohopay served as Director of Menominee Language and Culture and taught at the Menominee Tribal School, where students receive daily instruction in their language and traditions. He has worked closely with elders and researchers to revitalize Menominee stories, songs, and ceremonies—ensuring they remain a vibrant part of community and classroom life.

As Chairman, he continues to lead with a deep commitment to cultural resurgence and tribal sovereignty, envisioning a future where Menominee youth grow up proud—fluent in their language, grounded in their forest, and prepared to thrive in every part of life.

To learn more about Chairman Awonohopay and the Menominee Tribal government, you can click here: MITW Legislature!