Thomasina Jordan facts for kids

Thomasina Elizabeth Jordan, also known as Red Hawk Woman, was an important American Indian activist. She made history in 1988 by becoming the first American Indian to serve in the United States Electoral College. She passed away in 1999.

Early Life and Education

Thomasina Jordan loved learning. She earned two degrees, a bachelor's and a master's, in fine arts from Bishop Lee College in Boston. She also studied at famous universities like Harvard University. Later, she received a special doctorate degree in education from The Catholic University of America. She also attended the American Academy of Fine Arts in New York City.

After her studies, Thomasina Jordan lived in Alexandria, Virginia. She was active in her community and was a member of the local Republican City Committee.

A Voice for Native Americans

Thomasina Jordan was a strong advocate for Native American people. She worked hard to bring attention to important issues facing American Indian communities.

Serving the Community

She was chosen by two Virginia Governors, George Allen and Jim Gilmore, to lead the Virginia Council on Indians. This role meant she helped advise the state government on matters affecting Native Americans in Virginia.

Thomasina Jordan also started an organization called the American Indian Cultural Exchange. This group helped share Native American culture and traditions with more people. She also served on the boards of important organizations like Save the Children, which helps children around the world. She received the Medal of Honor from the Daughters of the American Revolution for her contributions.

Making a Difference in Law

Thomasina Jordan played a big part in changing laws to help Native Americans. The Virginia General Assembly, which makes laws for Virginia, recognized her efforts. She helped pass laws that allowed birth certificates to correctly identify Native Americans. She also worked to ensure that Native Americans could use animal parts and feathers in their traditional religious ceremonies.

One of her biggest goals was to get the United States Congress to officially recognize Virginia's state-recognized tribes. This official recognition from the federal government was very important for these tribes.

A Lasting Legacy

Thomasina Jordan's hard work led to a major victory for Native American tribes in Virginia. Congress first thought about a recognition bill in 2000, after she had championed the cause.

In 2018, six Virginia tribes finally received federal recognition. This happened under a law named after her: the Thomasina E. Jordan Indian Tribes of Virginia Federal Recognition Act of 2017. This act was a huge step forward for these tribes, giving them important rights and support from the federal government. Her legacy continues to impact Native American communities today.