Councillor Odie Brant Porter Named to the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum Advisory Council
The Smithsonian Institution recently named Odie Brant Porter, a Seneca Nation Council member, to the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum Advisory Council, whose board met on Wednesday, March 6, 2024.
In December 2020, Congress established a comprehensive women’s history museum within the Smithsonian Institution. The Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum expands the story of America through the often-untold accounts and accomplishments of women—individually and collectively—to better understand the nation’s past and to inspire future generations. Through new scholarship, diverse viewpoints, and innovative forms of exhibition, storytelling, and participation, the Museum seeks to promote a more equitable world for all people.
“I am honored to serve with this amazing group of American women to help tell the story of American women. In the Seneca Nation, women have always held a place of equality with men in matters of family and government,” Porter said. “I am hopeful that including stories of Indigenous women in the American Women’s History Museum will help inspire future generations of Americans.”
Odie Porter was elected to the Seneca Nation Council in 2022, previously served in senior executive roles in Seneca Nation governmental entities, higher education, and the private sector. She also serves as the Advocacy Chair of the WNY Women’s Foundation Board and the Co-Chair of the Burchfield Penney Art Center Board of Trustees Strategic Planning Initiative.
Odie is from the Allegany Territory and is the daughter of Carolyn Watt Brant and Randy Brant. She is married to Robert Odawi Porter.
Ja:göh, Councillor Porter!
