Jeanne Givens was a name that echoed respect and admiration.  She was a member of the Coeur d'Alene Tribe.  She was the first Native American woman to run for a seat in the U. S. Congress.  She was also the first Native American woman elected to the Idaho House of Representatives.  She passed away on May 13 in Spokane.  She was 73 years old.  She had been battling cancer.

Givens was born and raised on the Coeur d'Alene reservation.  She went to Whitworth University to study sociology.  She later attended Gonzaga University.  There she earned a master's degree in education.  Her educational background laid the foundation for her future roles.  She served on the Kootenai County Human Rights Task Force.  She was elected to the Idaho House of Representatives in 1984.  She represented the 4th District.  She later ran for a seat in the U. S. Congress in 1988.  Her campaign was groundbreaking.  It inspired many Native American women to enter politics.

Chief Allan, the chairman of the Coeur d'Alene Tribe, spoke highly of Givens.  He described her as a true leader.  He noted her dedication to creating a better world.  He admired her brilliance, hard work, and respect for others.  He also mentioned that she was a role model.  She inspired not only the Coeur d'Alene people but also the entire community she served.  Her legacy of service will be remembered.  Her family was offered deepest sympathies.

Sandy Emerson, who knew Givens in the 1980s, shared his impressions of her.  He was with the Chamber of Commerce at the time.  He was impressed by her preparation and fearlessness.  He noted that she was involved in many issues.  Despite this, she remained patient, reliable, and fair.  She had a unique ability to make people comfortable.  She was a center of calm, even in contentious situations.  She could get along with anyone.  She was even-handed in all her dealings.

George Saylor, who served in the Legislature from 2002 to 2010, also knew Givens.  He described her as positive, upbeat, and humorous.  He noted that she stepped up when she saw a need.  She was involved on many fronts.  She was intelligent, personable, and had great people skills.  These qualities helped her gain support on issues and get things done.  He described her as one of a kind.

Givens' husband, Ray Givens, was also known for his work.  He was a lawyer who focused on environmental issues.  He was known for his work on the Superfund cleanup of Coeur d'Alene River Basin.  He passed away earlier this year.  Funeral services for Jeanne Givens were scheduled for 10 a. m. on Tuesday at Evangeline Abraham Longhouse in DeSmet.

A Pioneer's Journey: Jeanne Givens' Impactful Life

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