Steve Russell (writer) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Steve Russell
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| Born | 1947 Bristow, Oklahoma
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| Nationality | Cherokee Nation |
| Education | Master of Judicial Studies, University of Nevada at Reno, 1993. Thesis: “Ethnic Cleansing and Land Ownership: Why the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act Does Not Protect Native American Graves in Texas.”
J.D., University of Texas, 1975. B.S.Ed., magna cum laude, University of Texas at Austin, 1972. High school dropout (9th grade). |
| Occupation | Professor Emeritus, Author |
Steve Russell is a respected member of the Cherokee Nation. He has had many important roles, including being a poet, journalist, and a university professor. He also served as a judge and taught about criminal justice at Indiana University Bloomington.
Early Life and Education
Steve Russell was born in 1947 in Bristow, Oklahoma. Even though he is Cherokee, he grew up in the Muscogee Creek Nation. He studied at the University of Texas, earning a bachelor's degree in education in 1972 and a law degree in 1975. Later, in 1993, he earned a master's degree in judicial studies from the University of Nevada at Reno.
Speaking Up for Native Americans
Steve Russell was known for speaking out about important issues affecting Native American communities. He often criticized people who falsely claimed to have Native American heritage without being recognized by a tribe. He was one of the first people to challenge these false claims publicly.
His writings were recognized by the Native American Journalists Association. In 2013, his article "Full-Blooded Indians—Face the Most Anti-Indian Racism" was named the best Native op-ed. The next year, in 2014, his article "Blacks and Indians Should Stand Together Against a Common Oppressor" also won the same award. These awards show how important his work was in discussing fairness and identity.
Books and Writings
Steve Russell has written several books that explore important topics about Native American life and history. His book, Sequoyah Rising: Problems in Post-Colonial Tribal Governance, is one of his most well-known works. This book talks about what it means to be a member of a tribe and the challenges Native American communities face.
Experts have praised his work. One review said his book helps people understand the history of American Indian policies. Another noted that while outside forces have caused problems, Native communities also have the power to find their own solutions.
Books by Steve Russell
- Ray Sixkiller’s Cherokee Nation: U.S. Election 2012 (Dog Iron Press 2014)
- American Indians Dream: A Movement of Our Own (Dog Iron Press 2014)
- Wicked Dew (Dog Iron Press 2012)
- Ceremonies of Innocence: Essays from the Indian Wars (Dog Iron Press 2012)
- Sequoyah Rising: Problems in Post-Colonial Tribal Governance (Carolina Academic Press 2010)
See Also
