Oprah given Native name during First Nation visit

Wednesday, August 8, 2007  

Television giant Oprah Winfrey was given a Native name during a visit to the 'Namgis First Nation in British Columbia on Friday.

Winfrey was named Noxsolaga, which means "wise woman" in the Kwak'wala language. Chief Bill Cranmer said women in the band chose the name.

Winfrey and her friends visited the U'mista Cultural Centre and the 'Namgis big house, where a two-day potlatch was already taking place. “You're really fortunate to still have your culture,” Winfrey reportedly said at the big house.

Winfrey visited the Navajo Nation last year and filmed a segment for her TV show there

Get the Story:
Oprah's Arrival Causes Town Commotion (BuddyTV 8/8)
B.C. community greets 'wise woman' Oprah (The Vancouver Sun 8/7)
B.C. town buzzes over Oprah visit (CBC 8/6)

Relevant Links:
Oprah - http://www.oprah.com
'Namgis First Nation - http://www.namgis.bc.ca

Related Stories:
Oprah pushed powwow during Navajo Nation visit (6/5)
Navajo Nation was told Oprah Winfrey not coming (6/2)
George Joe: Oprah Winfrey tapes at Navajo Nation (5/31)
Oprah Winfrey Show denies taping on reservation (5/26)