#zitkala sa
Our next #HERstory features an accomplished musician, politician, and writer. Gertrude Bonnin, also known as Zitkala-sa, was a Sioux woman, born in 1876 in South Dakota. She was a talented violinist, and won a scholarship to the Boston Conservatory of Music. In 1913, Gertrude became the first Native American woman to write an opera, titled Sun Dance. Her passion for music remained with her for the rest of her life, but she moved on to politics when she realized that she could advocate for the rights of Native Americans across the country.
In 1916, Gertrude moved with her husband to Washington, where she became the secretary of the Society of the American Indian. There, she edited American Indian Magazine, and wrote books about the mistreatment of Native Americans in Oklahoma. In 1926, Gertrude founded the National Council of American Indians, where her investigations led to important reforms in rights and greater equality for Native Americans.
March is Women’s History Month! To celebrate, we’re spotlighting our exchange alumni, famous stories, and unsung heroes. These women have shown us all that #ItOnlyTakesOne to raise the bar, set a new standard, or make a positive impact. Share your favorite stories for Women’s History Month with us on social media by tagging them with #ItOnlyTakesOne.
Post link
On this date in 1876, Zitkala Sa was born on the Yankton Indian Reservation in South Dakota. She would go on to write several books, including American Indian Stories, co-write the first Native American opera, and found the National Council of American Indians. She was also a talented musician — before becoming a writer and activist, she played the violin with the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston for two years.
For more information about this pioneering organizer, listen to RWHP founder Shelby Knox’s profile of her over at Chick History:http://bit.ly/11OExwz
Happy Birthday Zitkala Sa
Post link
