Statement on the Passing of Trailblazer Ada Deer

MILWAUKEE, WI – Ada Deer, member of the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin, fierce advocate for Indigenous rights, and former United States Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Indian Affairs passed away Tuesday night at the age of 88. The following is the statement of County Executive David Crowley:

“There are heavy hearts across the state and nation as we mourn the passing of Ada Deer, a pioneer and legendary leader who dedicated her life to championing the rights and well-being of Indigenous peoples and communities.

“Ada was a true public servant with an unwavering commitment to justice that left an indelible mark on our state and nation. Her remarkable achievements and long list of ‘firsts’ have transformed countless lives and inspired generations of women from all backgrounds follow in her footsteps.

“I am deeply grateful for Ada’s incredible contributions to our state. Her relentless effort to amplify the needs of Indigenous peoples and advance both social and economic equity have improved our community in immeasurable ways.

“As Milwaukee County Executive, I stand on the shoulders of giants like Ada Deer who blazed the trail to pursue equity and justice for all. Ada’s life and legacy will continue to serve as a beacon of inspiration for myself and others as we strive to build a more inclusive, compassionate, and just society.

“My deepest condolences go out to the family of Ada Deer, the entire Menominee Nation, and all those whose lives she touched. “

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.

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