1999 Assembly Resolution 10
ENGROSSED RESOLUTION
Relating to: the life and service to the people of the state of Wisconsin of Walter Bresette.
Whereas, Walter Bresette died on February 21, 1999, at the age of 51; and
Whereas, Walter distinguished himself in many ways. He was an artist, teacher and well-known public speaker. He was a Vietnam veteran. However, it was as a leader on 2 significant issues that he was best known; and
Whereas, Walter was one of the state of Wisconsin's most progressive leaders on issues of environmental stewardship. He translated the traditional respect of his own Anishinabe people for the earth into modern and forward-looking ideas for protecting the future of all people. He founded the Lake Superior Greens and was instrumental in founding the Wisconsin Green Party. He proposed the 7th Generation Amendment to the Wisconsin Constitution, which would have written into law a stewardship of the environment; and
Whereas, Walter was also a strong voice for human rights for all people, and in particular the indigenous people of Wisconsin. He founded the Midwest Treaty Network and Anishinabe Niiji, both of which were dedicated to bringing forward the need for respect for the sovereignty of the Wisconsin tribes; and
Whereas, although he was a forceful advocate, Walter was particularly effective at bringing people together and defusing situations of potential violence. During the confrontations over spear fishing in Northern Wisconsin, it was Walter Bresette who founded Witness for Nonviolence, which trained and organized volunteers to go to the boat landings and work with established peace-keeping methods to diffuse tension and avert violence. Without his efforts, the potential for violence in this bitter dispute would have been much greater; and
Whereas, Walter Bresette was a natural leader who led by example and will. He was a talented and creative man who dedicated his life to the betterment of the natural and human environment in his community. Even those who disagreed strongly with his views respected him for the manner in which he conducted himself. Everyone who lives in the Lake Superior watershed area is indebted to Walter for his tireless efforts; and
Whereas, Walter Bresette was born on the 4th of July, 1947, in Hayward, Wisconsin and graduated from Bayfield High School in 1964. He served in the United States Army for 4 years, after which he attended the Chicago School of Art. He is survived by 4 children, and all of the rest of us; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the assembly, That the members of the Wisconsin assembly commend the service Walter Bresette gave to this state, express their sorrow at his death and extend condolences to his family and friends; and, be it further
Resolved, That the assembly chief clerk shall provide copies of this resolution to each of the children of Walter Bresette.
