exchangealumni:Our next #HERstory features an accomplished musician, politician, and writer. Gertr
exchangealumni: 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. Photo Credit: 1, 2, 3 -- source link
#gertrude bonnin#zitkala sa#sioux women#native american#writers#musicians#composers#activists