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Adhering to gender roles doesn’t necessarily have to mean unequal treatment in Indian Country. The word ‘feminism’ sometimes elicits strong reactions, depending on who’s listening. Some Native American women know exactly where they fit in, even if they will never be able to hold tribal office. Others struggle with the complexity of tribal traditions that make them feel cut off from full participation. Where do Indigenous women fit into the feminist cause? Join us for a conversation with two leading Native feminists about what indigenous feminism means for our Native Nations.
Guests:
Dr. Kathryn Shanley (Assiniboine) – Professor of Native American Studies at the University of Montana
Dr. Dory Nason (Leach Lake Band of Ojibwe) – Assistant Professor at University of British Columbia
Ada Pecos Melton (Pueblo of Jemez) – owner of American Indian Development Associates
Recommended reading from Dr. Dory Nason:
I am Woman: a Native perspective on Sociology and Feminism by Lee Maracle: Excellent essays from Lee on Indigenous women’s activism and feminism
The Sacred Hoop: Recovering the Feminine in American Indian Traditions by Paula Gunn Allen (Laguna Pueblo)
Dancing on Our Turtle’s Back by Leanne Simpson: An Anishinaabe perspective on political resurgence
Indigenous women and Feminism: Politics, Activism, Culture edited by Shari Huhndorf, Cheryl Suzack, Jeanne Perrault, and Jean Barman
A Gathering of Spirit: edited by Beth Brant: In this anthology there is Kate Shanley’s essay “Thoughts on Indian Feminism”
Break Music: Canoe Song (song) Chenoa (artist) Spirit of Salishan (album)
