Suzan Shown Harjo

Definition

Suzan Shown Harjo is a prominent Native American activist, writer, and curator known for her efforts in advocating for the rights of Indigenous peoples, particularly in relation to the use of Native American imagery in sports and popular culture. Her work has been instrumental in the ongoing debates surrounding Native American mascots, pushing for the recognition of their harmful effects on Indigenous communities and identities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Harjo has played a crucial role in legal battles against the use of Native American mascots, including the notable case against the Washington Redskins in the 1990s.
2. She is a founding member of the National Museum of the American Indian and has contributed significantly to the representation of Indigenous art and culture in museums.
3. Harjo has received numerous awards for her activism and writing, including the prestigious 2014 Fellowship from the Academy of American Poets.
4. Through her writing and speeches, she emphasizes the importance of respecting Indigenous identities and histories in all forms of media.
5. Harjo's work extends beyond mascots; she also focuses on broader issues affecting Native communities, such as land rights, cultural preservation, and social justice.

Review Questions

• How has Suzan Shown Harjo contributed to the discussions surrounding Native American mascots?
  • Suzan Shown Harjo has been a significant voice in advocating against Native American mascots, emphasizing their negative impact on Indigenous identities. She has engaged in legal actions, including a notable case against the Washington Redskins, aiming to raise awareness about how these mascots perpetuate stereotypes and undermine the dignity of Native peoples. Through her activism, she has brought attention to the need for respectful representation and dialogue about Indigenous cultures.
• In what ways has Harjo's work influenced cultural institutions regarding Indigenous representation?
  • Harjo's influence on cultural institutions is profound, as she has been a key figure in shaping policies and practices that promote respectful representations of Native cultures. As a founding member of the National Museum of the American Indian, she has worked to ensure that Indigenous voices are included in museum narratives. Her efforts encourage museums to reassess their collections and exhibitions to better honor and accurately reflect Indigenous histories and contributions.
• Evaluate the broader implications of Harjo's activism on society's understanding of cultural appropriation and representation.
  • Suzan Shown Harjo's activism highlights significant issues regarding cultural appropriation and representation, pushing society to critically examine how Indigenous cultures are portrayed in media and public spaces. Her work fosters greater awareness about the historical context behind these portrayals, urging individuals to consider their impact on Indigenous identities. By advocating for respectful engagement with Native cultures, Harjo's efforts promote social justice and equality, encouraging a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding cultural representation.

Related terms

Native American Mascots: Symbols or images used by sports teams and other organizations that often caricature or misrepresent Indigenous cultures.

Cultural Appropriation: The act of taking or using elements of one culture by members of another culture, often without permission or understanding, leading to a misrepresentation or disrespect of the original culture.

Indian Arts Research Center: A research facility dedicated to preserving and promoting Native American arts and cultures, which Harjo has been associated with through her curatorial work.