Teresa M. Powers, Communications/Native Voices (Amer. Ind Studies)

Contact twolf@u.washington.edu 354305

American Indian Womens' Service League

A Legacy of Pride : The American Indian Women^Ňs Service League,
Seattle, Washington


This story begins when a handful of American Indian women began to reach
out to other Indian people during the 1950^Ňs Termination and Relocation
eras. Although Seattle was not one of the nine major cities designated as
^ÓRelocation Headquarters,^Ô many Alaska Native and American Indian people
came to Seattle to look for jobs; or stationed at local army hospitals, to
work for the war effort or recuperate after WWII.  The AIWSL founder and
leader was Pearl Warren, a Makah woman, she and other women sought to
improve the identity of American Indian people by helping them to navigate
and succeed in city life. Through the memories and recollections of the
daughters, friends and protégés. The AIWSL planted the seeds that grew
into the Seattle Indian Center, Seattle Indian Health Board, United
Indians of All Tribes Foundation, and the Seattle Indian Services
Commission.  The AIWSL incorporated in 1958 and continues into the 21st
century.