Born: June 2, 1945 (El Reno, Oklahoma)
Suzan Shown Harjo (born June 2, 1945) is an advocate for Native American rights. She is a poet, writer, lecturer, curator, and policy advocate who has helped Native peoples recover more than one million acres of tribal lands. Harjo has made significant contributions as a leader and activist in the Native American community, working tirelessly to advance indigenous rights and challenge negative stereotypes.
Born in El Reno, Oklahoma, Harjo comes from a diverse background. Her mother was Cheyenne and her father Muscogee, and she grew up living on his allotment near Beggs. She has ancestral ties to Chief Bull Bear of the Cheyenne tribe. Harjo’s early experiences as part of a Native community and exposure to different cultures played a crucial role in shaping her advocacy work.
Harjo’s activism began to take shape in the mid-1960s when she co-produced Seeing Red, a groundbreaking radio program on New York’s WBAI FM station. This was the first Indigenous news show in the United States, highlighting issues that were often overlooked or misrepresented by mainstream media. Harjo’s work on Seeing Red laid the foundation for her future endeavors in fighting for Native American rights.
In addition to her work in radio, Harjo was involved in theater and independent productions in New York City. She produced and performed in numerous plays, using her platform to address social and political issues affecting Native communities. Harjo’s passion for preserving Native culture extended beyond the stage, as she advocated for the repatriation of sacred garments and changes in museum policies regarding Indigenous artifacts.
In 1974, Harjo relocated to Washington, D.C., where she took on the role of a legislative liaison, advocating for Indian rights. During her time in the nation’s capital, Harjo played a pivotal role in shaping national policy on Native American issues. Her dedication and expertise led to her appointment as Congressional liaison for Indian affairs in the administration of President Jimmy Carter. Harjo’s work at the federal level helped elevate the voices and concerns of Native peoples, bringing attention to their unique challenges and advocating for meaningful change.
Continuing her advocacy work, Harjo served as president of the National Council of American Indians, a prestigious position within the Native American community. She used her platform to address longstanding injustices and push for policy reforms that would benefit Indigenous peoples across the country.
One of Harjo’s most significant contributions to Native American rights has been her tireless efforts to challenge the use of Native mascots and team names that perpetuate harmful stereotypes. Since the 1960s, she has worked diligently to encourage sports teams to drop names that promote negative and harmful associations with Native Americans. Harjo’s campaigns and public pressure have resulted in positive change, with two-thirds of teams with American Indian mascots changing them by 2013. In 2014, the Patent and Trademark Office revoked the trademark for the Washington Redskins, a decision that reflected the impact of Harjo’s advocacy and the growing recognition of the need for respectful representation of Native peoples.
Harjo’s impact on Native American rights and her dedication to preserving indigenous culture have been widely recognized. In 2014, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States. This prestigious recognition reflects the profound influence Harjo has had on society and her tireless efforts to bring about positive change for Native communities.
Throughout her career, Harjo’s motivation and inspiration have come from her deep connection to her Native heritage and a desire to ensure justice and recognition for Indigenous peoples. She has been a trailblazer, challenging stereotypes, advocating for policy reforms, and empowering Native communities to assert their rights and reclaim their cultural heritage.
As a prominent figure in women’s history, Suzan Shown Harjo’s contributions transcend boundaries. Her advocacy work has shed light on the unique challenges faced by Native American women and furthered the ongoing fight for gender equality in Indigenous communities. By amplifying the voices of Native women, Harjo has played a crucial role in shaping the discourse around gender and indigenous rights.
Suzan Shown Harjo’s biography is a testament to her unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and the recognition of Native American rights. Her contributions have made a significant impact on society, and her work continues to inspire generations to come.
Awards:
– Presidential Medal of Freedom (2014)