Native American Democratic Caucus of Idaho Chairwoman Trish Carter-Goodheart released the following statement on the passing of Representative Jeanne Givens:

“We join together in deep mourning and profound gratitude as we honor the life and legacy of Representative Jeanne Givens, a powerful Schitsu’umsh (Coeur d’Alene) tribal member, advocate, and the first Native woman elected to the Idaho State Legislature.

Representative Givens was a trailblazer in every sense of the word. When she entered the Idaho House of Representatives, she didn’t just make history; she opened the doors of the future for the rest of us. In 1988, she became the first Native woman in U.S. history to run for Congress, shattering expectations and daring to envision representation for Indian Country at the highest levels.

Her unwavering dedication to her people, her culture, and her community never wavered. She was bold, unshakable, and driven by a deep love for tribal sovereignty and justice. For those of us in the Native American Democratic Caucus of Idaho, Jeanne is more than a political figure, she is a Matriarch of our movement.

We send our deepest condolences to her family, her Nation, and to every person who is grieving her passing. We carry her memory forward, and we recommit ourselves to the work she and many other tribal activists began. May the Creator guide her gently into the arms of our Ancestors.”