Activist Suzan Shown Harjo will receive an honorary doctorate from the Institute of American Indian Arts in New Mexico.

Harjo, who his Muscogee and Cheyenne, is being recognized for a lifetime of advocacy in Indian Country. She has worked on repatriation, religious freedom, sacred sites, languages, federal recognition, mascots, and arts issues for decades.

“My children, grandchildren, extended family and all the coming generations are my primary motivators,” Harjo said in a press release. “I do what I do out of a duty of care for them and with respect to our ancestors.”

Harjo will receive the degree during IAIA's commencement ceremony on May 13.

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Oklahoma-born American Indian activist will receive honorary degree (The Oklahoman 4/26)