Bobbie Banda facts for kids

Barbara "Bobbie" Lucille Banda (born around 1947 – died May 4, 2013) was an important Juaneño leader and activist. She was a member of the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians. Bobbie Banda worked hard to bring Native American lessons, including the Juaneño language, into public schools near San Juan Capistrano, California. She started these programs in the 1970s, and they are still taught in California schools today.

Early Life and Family Roots

Bobbie Banda was a ninth-generation member of the Rios family. Her family had lived in the San Juan Capistrano area long before the Mission San Juan Capistrano was built in 1776.

She grew up in the Little Hollywood neighborhood, which is part of the Los Rios Street Historic District in San Juan Capistrano. Bobbie went to San Juan Elementary School. She was also part of the last class to graduate from Capistrano Union High School in 1964.

After finishing high school, Bobbie Banda started working as a teacher's aide for the Capistrano Unified School District. Later, she worked for a company called Endevco Aerospace for 28 years.

Bringing Native American Culture to Schools

During the 1970s, Bobbie Banda actively pushed for Native American courses and programs in the Capistrano Unified School District. She successfully asked the U.S. government for money to start these important educational programs.

The programs Bobbie created were a big step forward for Native American education in Southern California. Her son, Nathan Banda, now leads these programs, and they are still a part of the school curriculum today.

A Leader in Tribal Politics

Bobbie Banda was also very involved in Juaneño tribal politics. For six years, she served as a co-director of the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians' elders committee. She held this position until she passed away in 2013.

In 2013, Bobbie campaigned for six people who wanted to join the Juaneño tribal council. All six candidates she supported were elected. This led to the first time in Juaneño history that the tribal council was made up entirely of women.

Later Life and Legacy

Bobbie Banda passed away on May 4, 2013, at the age of 66, after having several strokes. She was married to her husband, Frank, for 48 years. They had four children: Frank Jr., Monica Clifton, Erika Zammoron, and Nathan. Her funeral was held at the Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano.

Bobbie Banda is remembered for her dedication to her community and for making sure that Native American history and culture are taught in schools.