October is National Domestic Violence Prevention Month. I was blessed to see a recent webinar put on by the National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center (NIWRC) in honor of Wa Wokiye Win – Woman Who Helps Everyone – Tillie Black Bear. She was an amazing Lakota woman who was the Grandmother of The Battered Women’s Movement, and her work to advocate for victims spanned for almost 40 years. Her ability to unite people to combat domestic and sexual violence both for Indigenous women and children, and women in general, was astounding. Her story and her life were so inspiring.
She was the first Native woman to take this issue to Washington D.C. and work to end domestic violence on a national level. She also helped create prevention and after care programs for those touched by domestic violence, including having counseling available to help all parties involved, help with education, child care, and housing assistance. Black Bear did so much to honor and restore the strength and safety of women, and in the 30 years she spent working on legislation, she made sure that the needs of Indigenous women and the sovereignty of Indian nations were represented.
I wish I could have met her before she passed, but her legacy and her work continues on. The Tillie Black Bear Women Are Sacred Day is October 1st, but let’s honor her everyday, be of service to others, and take care of each other.
Best and be well,
Adira
Adira James 