Dan Boren: “I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Wilma Mankiller today. As the Cherokee Nation's first female chief, she…”

“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Wilma Mankiller today. As the Cherokee Nation's first female chief, she transformed the Nation-to-Nation relationship between the Cherokee Nation and the Federal Government, and served as an inspiration to women in Indian Country and across America. A recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, she was recognized for her vision and commitment to a brighter future for all Americans. Her legacy will continue to encourage and motivate all who carry on her work. Michelle and I offer our condolences to Wilma's family, especially her husband, Charlie, and two daughters Gina and Felicia, as well as the Cherokee Nation, and all those who knew her and were touched by her good works. I would just like to say I knew Wilma as a young boy. I got to meet Wilma through many festivals and pow-wows with my father when he served in the U.S. Senate. She was always so kind, and she was always lending advice to me. Then after I was elected to Congress--and Congressman Cole was very correct--the term I would say is 'blunt'--she was very blunt in her political advice. She would call me whenever something would happen within the Cherokee Nation or here in Congress and would give me some advice, very direct advice, and she was always right in her advice. We are going to miss her deeply.”