... On Wilma Mankiller [day 27]

With an ominous name that actually doesn't have much of anything to do with what you'd think it would, Wilma Mankiller proves to be an interesting figure.

Like Maria Tallchief from the last entry Ms. Mankiller here was born and grew up in Oklahoma. Born in 1945 she however was Cherokee rather than Osage ancestry. She was a direct descendent of those who were forced to march on the Trail of tears. Her grandfather had been one of the 16000 forced on that march. One of 11 siblings her and her family would eventually leave Oklahoma for California in the 1950's in hopes a better life but a combination of money troubles and discrimination dogged them still. 

Over time, Mankiller would grow to become more invested in the fight for Native American rights. The 60's kicked up her activistm when she saw Native American activists trying to reclaim Alcatraz island. She'd eventually return to her home state to pursue her desire to help people and give action to her growing dreams. 

She'd even do it through an accident that nearly took her life in 1979. The injuries were extensive but she survived and would soon claim the honor that would be her primary claim to fame. In the 1980's she ran for the position of Deputy Chief of her tribe. She'd go on to be appointed the tribe's principle chief in 1985 before being elected to that positon herself in her own right 1987. 

As the first female chief of the Cherokee nation she oversaw social programs and Tribal business. After her death, President Obama even issued a statement on her that you owe it to yourself to read. 

Her activistm was consistent and determined for more than 2 decades. During that time she fiercely advocated for the rights of women and Native Americans and refused to let multiple illnesses and kidney problems keep her from doing what she could. 

And that's Wilma Mankiller. Admittedly, there's not as much here to play with in terms of humor she's still worth remembering. The story for her is more somber and straightforward but breaking the glass ceiling in any society is worth examining and her contributions as Chief shouldn't be ignored. 

http://www.biography.com/people/wilma-mankiller-214109#later-career-and-death

http://womenshistory.about.com/od/nativeamwomen/p/wilma_mankiller.htm