Biography:
Phyllis Young is an American Indian rights activist, specifically belonging to the Lakota and Dakota tribes. Over the course of more than 40 years, Young has played a crucial role in advocating for the rights and well-being of Native Americans. She gained significant recognition for her leadership in the anti-Dakota Access Pipeline struggle that unfolded from 2016 to 2017.
Young’s association with activism dates back to her involvement with the American Indian Movement (AIM), a prominent Native American advocacy group. She worked closely with Russell Means, an iconic Native American activist, and collaborated with various national Indigenous rights campaigners. In 1978, Young co-founded Women of All Red Nations alongside Madonna Thunder Hawk, aiming to address the unique challenges faced by Indigenous women.
With a steadfast commitment to amplifying Indigenous voices, Young played a pivotal role in facilitating global discourse on Native American issues. In 1977, she coordinated the initial United Nations conference on Indians in the Americas, held in Geneva, Switzerland. As a result of her efforts, crucial dialogues were initiated, provoking international awareness and recognition of Indigenous rights.
From 1993 to 2008, Young served on the board of the National Museum of the American Indian, further contributing to the preservation and promotion of Native American art, culture, and history. Her extensive knowledge and experience made her a valuable asset in shaping the museum’s exhibits and programs.
One of Young’s significant accomplishments is her involvement in the development of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. In 2007, she was a contributing author to the precursor document, which later formed the basis for the final Declaration. Young’s dedication to advocating for the rights of Indigenous communities resonated on a global scale, and her contributions were eventually accepted by the General Assembly.
Young’s commitment to her tribe, Standing Rock, is evident in her service as a tribal council member from 2012 to 2015. Standing Rock holds a vital place in Young’s heart, and she has been instrumental in protecting its lands, resources, and cultural heritage. From October 2015 to September 2017, Young worked tirelessly as an organizer at the Oceti Sakowin Camp, a hub for the Dakota Access Pipeline protest. Tens of thousands of protesters, known as water protectors, gathered at the camp to resist the construction of the oil pipeline. Young’s leadership and dedication during this crucial period left an indelible mark on the history of Indigenous activism.
Currently, Young serves as an organizer for the Lakota People’s Law Project, a nonprofit law firm led by Attorney Daniel Sheehan, which provides legal defense to water protectors in the aftermath of the Standing Rock DAPL struggle. Her work focuses on ensuring the protection of water resources and safeguarding the rights of Indigenous communities.
In recognition of her unwavering commitment to Indigenous rights, Young was selected as one of the six fellows for the 2018 Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Solve Fellowship with the Oceti Sakowin. This achievement not only acknowledged her accomplishments but also provided her with $10,000 in funding to further her efforts in bringing renewable energy to the Standing Rock Reservation. Young’s dedication to creating sustainable solutions showcases her forward-thinking approach.
Phyllis Young’s legacy stretches far beyond her immediate impact on Indigenous communities. Her lifelong commitment to advocacy and social justice has inspired individuals worldwide, amplifying the voices of marginalized communities and leaving a lasting imprint on women’s history.
Awards:
– 2018 Massachusetts Institute of Technology Solve Fellowship with the Oceti Sakowin.