Rosemary Christensen, Elgie Raymond, and Will Antell
In 1969, several American Indian educators discussed the concerns facing Indian educators and issues with the education of Indian children and how to improve it. To meet educator, student, and community needs, the founding members incorporated The National Indian Education Association (NIEA) in August, 1970.
Find out more about how National Indian Education Association improves young Native American lives here: https://www.niea.org/history-of-niea
Madonna Thunder Hawk
Madonna Thunder Hawk is a Native American civil rights activist best known as a member and leader in the American Indian Movement, co-founding Women of All Red Nations and the Black Hills Alliance. Her life’s work has been guided by the goals of winning justice for Native Americans.
Read more about Madonna Hawk here: https://www.indigenousgoddessgang.com/matriarch-monday/2018/11/26/madonna-thunder-hawk
Ella Cara Deloria
Ella Cara Deloria was a Yankton Dakota educator, anthropologist, ethnographer, linguist, and novelist. She recorded Native American oral history and contributed to the study of Native American languages by researching the linguistics of Native American languages, translate the recorded Indigenous languages in 19th century texts, and provide valuable insights into the nuances of her culture. Deloria wrote Dakota grammar books, translating ceremonial texts, writing the novel ‘Waterlily,’ and conducting studies for the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
Read more about Ella Deloria here: https://www.nps.gov/people/ella-cara-deloria.htm
Dennis Banks
Dennis Banks was a Native American activist, teacher, and author. He was a longtime leader of the American Indian Movement, which he co-founded in Minnesota, and was a re-eminent spokesman for Native Americans during major Indian protests and events in the late 20th century.
Read more about Banks here: https://muscarelle.wm.edu/rising/relocation/minneapolis/1968/faces/
What other Native American Leaders do you look up to? Let us know in the comments!
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