Te Ata: Oklahoma Cultural Treasure

Born in 1895 in Indian Territory, Te Ata grew up during a time when Chickasaw children were not allowed to speak their native language in their own schools. They could not tell the stories or play the games of their culture. This was true for the children of many tribes throughout North America. Te Ata worried the traditions of Native Americans would be lost or forgotten forever. For more than 70 years, she used her acting talent to show people around the world the beauty and wisdom of Native American cultures. She helped change attitudes toward Native Americans. Oklahoma honored her dedication in two important ways. She was inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame. And she was named the first Oklahoma Cultural Treasure.

Pati Hailey loves to write both non-fiction and fiction. She writes training materials for large corporations, articles for magazines and newspapers, and books for children and young adults. Te Ata's life and work hold a special meaning for Pati. Her grandmother was a full-blood Cherokee. Her family kept this a secret for a very long time because of the attitudes toward Native Americans. She grew up with no knowledge of her Cherokee heritage.