Helen Sekaquaptewa facts for kids

Helen Sekaquaptewa (1898-1990) was a Hopi woman known for her important life story. She was a homemaker, a leader in her family, and a great storyteller. She was also a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Her book, Me and Mine: The Life Story of Helen Sekaquaptewa, shares her memories. Her friend Louise Udall helped write it down.

Helen's Early Life

Helen Sekaquaptewa was born in 1898 in the Hopi village of Oraibi. Her family belonged to a group called the "Hostiles." This group wanted to keep their traditional Hopi culture. They did not want to adopt American ways.

After her family's group was forced to leave Oraibi, Helen had to go to a Native American boarding school. These schools tried to teach Native American children American customs.

When she finished high school, Helen decided to live in both worlds. She married Emory in 1919. They had both a traditional Hopi wedding and a Christian one.

They settled in Hotevilla. Emory became a judge for their tribe. Helen worked to help her community. She focused on social welfare.

In 1951, Helen learned about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She decided to join the church. After joining, she became very active in the Relief Society. This is a women's organization within the church.

About Me and Mine

Helen Sekaquaptewa met Louise Udall when she moved to Phoenix, Arizona. Helen moved there so her children could get a better education. Helen and Louise became good friends through the Relief Society.

Helen told Louise many stories about her life. Louise wrote these stories down. This became the book Me and Mine: The Life Story of Helen Sekaquaptewa.

The book talks about Helen's journey to find her identity. She had to balance her traditional Hopi background with American culture. The book also shows how she found ways to connect these parts of her life. She found peace in her spiritual beliefs and community work. For example, Helen felt her Mormon faith supported her traditional Hopi spiritual beliefs.

Helen's Legacy

Helen Sekaquaptewa's life story is very important. In 2004, she was included in a book called Notable American Women. This book highlights important women in American history.

In 2013, she was honored by being added to the Arizona Women's Hall of Fame. This recognizes women who have made big contributions to Arizona.

A part of her book, called "My Church," was put into another book. This section describes how she met Mormon missionaries and joined the church.

Helen's children also made important contributions. Her daughter, Marlene, was a respected Hopi tribal leader. Her son, Emory, was a Hopi anthropologist. He helped create the first dictionary for the Hopi language.