Known for penning the first English narrative by a Native American woman, SARAH WINNEMUCCA was a multi-lingual advocate for her people, the Northern Paiute.
Born Thocmetony (“Shell Flower”), Winnemucca straddled two worlds: the one of her ancestors and the new one being forged by settlers in the West. Fluent in English, Spanish, and three dialects of her native language, she felt that translating was a way to help her people. Even though she was often caught in the middle, she never stopped advocating for her people and their way of life. When translating failed to help, she turned to lecturing. When lecturing failed to meet the ends she desired, she started a school for Paiute children. (The Dawes Act in 1887 put an end to that dream.)
Winnemucca devoted her life to speaking for others in hopes of preserving Paiute culture. She exemplifies determination and resourcefulness. This November, I’m grateful for strong women who speak for others when no one can or will.
For more info, visit:
Powwows.com: 20 Native American Women You Should Know
Library of Congress Blogs: Native American Heritage Month: Celebrating Sarah Winnemucca