Oneida Nation repeats history with women in top leadership jobs


The new Oneida Business Committee was sworn in last month. Photo from Kalihwisaks / Facebook

Women hold the top four leadership positions within the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin but it's not the first time in tribal history that's happened.

Twice in the past, women have secured the Chairwoman, Vice-Chairwoman, Treasurer and Secretary spots. The last time was in 2002.

"We've just been very fortunate that we have very strong, independent women," Rita Lara, the director of the Oneida Nation Museum, told The Green Bay Press-Gazette. "The sky's the limit; you can do whatever you want to do."

Last month, the tribe swore in Cristina Danforth as chair, Melinda Danforth as vice chair, Trish King as treasurer and Lisa Summers as secretary. Two other women also serve on the council, giving women a majority.

Get the Story:
Oneida women again in top leadership posts (The Green Bay Press-Gazette 9/28)

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