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Who is Wilma Mankiller?

Wilma Mankiller worked for several years as a leading advocate for the Cherokee people, and became the first woman to serve as their principal chief in 1985. She sought to improve the nation’s health care, education system and government. She decided not to seek re-election in 1995 due to ill health. After leaving office, Mankiller remained an activist for Native American and women's rights until her death.

“I've run into more discrimination as a woman than as an Indian.”

Source(s): Excerpts from Biography; Inspiring Quotes

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Photo of Wilma Mankiller. Courtesy of Women Rising Inc.

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