Suzan Shown Harjo, a prominent advocate for Native American rights, has dedicated over six decades to championing the causes of Indigenous peoples. As the president of The Morning Star Institute and a former executive director of significant organizations, she has been instrumental in the passage of landmark legislation such as the American Indian Religious Freedom Act and the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act. Her relentless efforts have not only led to the return of over one million acres of Indigenous land but have also sparked movements to eliminate derogatory Native mascots from American sports. In this insightful conversation, we explore Harjo's profound impact on Native rights, her personal journey, and her unwavering commitment to cultural preservation and advocacy. Join us as we explore her invaluable contributions to the Indigenous community and the ongoing struggle for justice and recognition. Suzan Shown Harjo, a Cheyenne citizen and an illustrious advocate for Native American rights, has dedicated over sixty years to the tireless pursuit of justice and equity for Indigenous peoples. As the founder and president of The Morning Star Institute, she has been instrumental in the establishment of landmark legislation that has fundamentally reshaped the landscape of Native rights in the United States. Her involvement in the creation of the American Indian Religious Freedom Act (AIRFA) of 1978 and its amendments, as well as the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act of 1990, underscores her commitment to the protection of Indigenous cultural and spiritual practices. Throughout her career, Harjo has championed the repatriation of ancestral lands and cultural artifacts, successfully advocating for the return of over one million acres to Native peoples. Her relentless efforts have not only led to the elimination of derogatory Native mascots in sports but have also included a profound commitment to the re-Indigenization of place names across the nation. Harjo's recognition as a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2014 further solidifies her status as a leading voice for Indigenous justice, reflecting the deep respect and admiration she has garnered throughout her extensive career. In this engaging conversation, Harjo reflects on her upbringing in Cheyenne and Muscogee lands, where her early experiences shaped her worldview. Raised amid rich cultural traditions and a strong sense of community, she discusses the influence of her grandparents and other familial figures who instilled in her the values of resilience, respect, and kinship. Harjo's narrative weaves through her educational journey, highlighting her pivotal experiences in various locations, including her time in Italy, which broadened her perspective on cultural ties and shared human values. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the interconnectedness of Indigenous peoples globally, drawing parallels between their struggles and the experiences of other marginalized communities. This dialogue not only illuminates Harjo's personal journey but also serves as a testament to the collective resilience of Indigenous peoples and the ongoing fight for recognition and rights. As the conversation unfolds, Harjo shares insights into her formative influences, including significant mentors and experiences that have guided her throughout her life. Her reflections on mentorship illuminate the reciprocal nature of learning, where both the mentor and mentee engage in a dynamic exchange of knowledge and wisdom. Harjo's journey is punctuated by her encounters with notable figures in the arts and civil rights movements, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and community in effecting meaningful change. She articulates the profound impact of collective action in the pursuit of justice, laying the groundwork for future generations of advocates. Harjo's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of cultural heritage, the necessity for advocacy, and the indomitable spirit of Indigenous peoples as they continue to navigate the complexities of identity, rights, and sovereignty.

Takeaways:

Suzan Shown Harjo has dedicated over sixty years to advocating for Native American rights.
She was instrumental in the passage of significant legislation, including the American Indian Religious Freedom Act.
Harjo's efforts led to the return of over one million acres of Indigenous lands and the elimination of offensive sports mascots.
As President of The Morning Star Institute, she continues to be a leading voice for Indigenous culture and legal rights.
Her work has garnered numerous accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2014.
Harjo emphasizes the importance of community and kinship in Indigenous cultures, drawing parallels with Mediterranean societies.

Links referenced in this episode:

elevenwarriorarts.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

Morningstar Institute
National Congress of the American Indians
Native American Rights Fund
American Indian Religious Freedom Act
National Museum of the American Indian Act
Native American Graves Protection Act
McDonnell Douglas Aircraft
Haskell Indian Nations University
WBAI Radio
American Indian Press Association