NSU to host lecture on women’s contributions to tribal equality

(Tahlequah, Oklahoma) -- In recognition of Black History Month, Northeastern State University will host a Women in Leadership lecture featuring Marilyn Vann at 2 p.m. on Feb. 26 in the Webb Auditorium.

Vann is president of the Descendants of Freedmen of the Five Civilized Tribes, and she was the primary defendant in the Supreme Court case that fought for tribal equality for the Cherokee Freedmen. Her lecture will focus on the contributions of women to the Cherokee Freedmen fight for tribal equality.

The lecture will be hosted by the Center for Women's Studies and the Center for Tribal Studies in concert with the Departments of Criminology, Justice Studies and Global Security, Political Science and Geography, and History.

"The Center for Women's Studies strives to showcase women in our local and regional communities who are leaders and who have made an impact on the community, said Dr. Suzanne Farmer, Center for Womens Studies director. Marilyn Vann was at the forefront of a national lawsuit that dealt with the issue of tribal equality and recognition of the Cherokee Freedmen and we are excited to hear her talk about her role, as well as the role of other women, in that fight."

Center for Tribal Studies Director Sara Barnett said the original mission of the center included a commitment to provide a neutral ground for individuals, both native and non-native, to enhance understanding, negotiate issues, and resolve conflicts.

While the mission has evolved since 1990, we are still committed to hosting symposia and conferences related to issues and topics relevant to American Indians, Barnett said. The Freedmen issue can certainly be described as divisive, but it is important for us to understand all sides of the debate. We are excited to host this event alongside the Center for Women's Studies and other departments within the College of Liberal Arts.

The presentation is open to the public.