Use Language to Mean What You Say

Abstract

Abstract: This reflective essay recounts two of my personal experiences with Elizabeth Cook-Lynn. My first encounter with her was in 2009 when I attended a class she taught on American Indian studies. I found her forthright in her teaching and in our personal exchange after the class. She said something to me that ended my lifelong inner struggle with my identity. What may have seemed inconsequential was actually a profound moment that helped me move forward to focus my writing on American Indian issues. My second encounter with her was a tense moment in the racist history of Rapid City, South Dakota. I attended a rally to call attention to the inordinate number of Lakota people killed by Rapid City's law enforcement. Twenty-four hours later, a Native male residing at Lakota Homes in Rapid City was shot and killed by a Rapid City police officer. Elizabeth and I attended a small gathering of concerned citizens to address the situation. Already familiar with her as a scholar, author, poet, and educator, I saw her that day as an activist.