Sherri Mitchell facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sherri Mitchell
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| Born | 1969 (age 55–56) |
| Education | University of Maine (BS) James E. Rogers College of Law (JD) |
| Occupation | lawyer |
Sherri L. Mitchell, also known as Weh'na Ha'mu Kwasset, was born in 1969. She is a Penobscot lawyer, writer, teacher, and activist from Maine. She wrote a book called Sacred Instructions: Indigenous Wisdom for Living Spirit-Based Change. This book shares important Native American wisdom. It helps people find their way and be kind to others.
Contents
Growing Up and School
Sherri Mitchell grew up on the Penobscot Indian Island Reservation in Maine. This place is also known as Indian Island. Her grandfather was Theodore N. Mitchell. He started important programs at the University of Maine. These programs focused on Native American studies and culture. Sherri went to the University of Maine and did very well. After that, she studied law at the University of Arizona. She focused on laws related to Indigenous Peoples.
Her Work and Advocacy
Sherri Mitchell has worked in many important roles. She was part of programs like the American Indian Ambassador program. She also worked as a law clerk for the U.S. government. This work involved helping with Native American affairs. She also worked for a law firm that helps Native American communities.
Later, she became an attorney for Pine Tree Legal Assistance. She also taught people about civil rights for the Maine Attorney General's office. Today, she helps guide the American Indian Institute. She is also on the advisory board of Nia Tero, an organization that supports Indigenous peoples.
Protecting Rights
Sherri Mitchell is a lawyer who works for Indigenous rights. These are the rights of Native American and other Indigenous peoples. She is the leader of the Land Peace Foundation. This group works to protect Indigenous land and water rights. They also help keep the Indigenous way of life strong. Sherri has been working for Indigenous rights for over 25 years. Her work helps people in the U.S., Canada, and other countries.
Healing Ceremonies
Mitchell also advises the American Indian Institute's Healing the Future Program. She helps the Indigenous Elders and Medicine People’s Council. This council includes leaders from North and South America. Sherri also started a special event called "Healing the Wounds of Turtle Island." This is a global healing ceremony. It began in 2017 and people from many continents have joined. The ceremony will continue for 21 years. It will travel to different parts of the United States. Her work is shown in a movie called Dancing with the Cannibal Giant.
Awards and Recognition
Sherri Mitchell has received many awards for her important work. In 2010, she won the Mahoney Dunn International Human Rights and Humanitarian Award. This was for her research on human rights issues affecting Indigenous people. In 2015, she received the Spirit of Maine Award. This award recognized her excellent work in international human rights.
In 2016, her picture was added to a special art series. This series is called "Americans Who Tell the Truth." Artist Robert Shetterly created it. In 2017, she also received the Hands of Hope award. This award came from the Peace and Justice Center of Eastern Maine.
