Oklahoma Federation of Indian Women
  

History of OFIW

The first meeting of the Oklahoma Federation of Indian Women was hosted in 1969 by Alice and Boyce Timmons and Georgeann Robinson.  Over fifty women of different tribes came together on the University of Oklahoma campus in Norman to form a statewide organization of Indian women. 

The organization was founded under a state charter on April 17, 1972.   A constitution was written with the stated purpose:  “the advancement of the economic and social welfare of the American Indian; the development of education and cultural programs; preservation of Indian culture and traditions; and to portray the true image of the American Indian.”

The Federation began the Miss Indian Oklahoma pageant in 1973, with Deana Harragarra crowned as the first MIO.  In 1983, the Junior Miss Indian Oklahoma pageant was initiated as a fund-raiser for the organization. 

Since that time both pageants have grown into pageants stressing not only the beauty of the American Indian women but the scholastic, cultural traditions, and current issues as well. 

The Federation has grown and changed with the times but still remains true to the original purpose.  A wide range of programs are conducted including the annual series of events featuring the two title competitions, a fine arts and crafts showcase, statewide awards, and a youth conference added in 1998.  The events are held annually in a weekend series showcasing the finest traits and talents of the American Indian.

One of the objectives of the Federation is to provide exposure and participation for Native American women, as well as the general public, in the annual events.  Therefore, the events move from each year so that all parts of Oklahoma are represented. The annual events have been hosted in the following cities during the last several years:

  • 2011 McAlester
  • 2010 Norman
  • 2009 Tulsa
  • 2008 Tulsa
  • 2007 Perkins
  • 2006 Tulsa
  • 2005 Ada
  • 2004 Stillwater
  • 2003 Shawnee
  • 2002 Tahlequah
  • 2001 Tulsa
  • 2000 Lawton
  • 1999 El Reno


OFIW sponsors quarterly membership meetings.  Meetings are held across the state to include membership and tribal representation from many areas. Federation voting membership is open to tribally-enrolled American Indian women and according to the OFIW Constitution.
© 2008-2011 Oklahoma Federation of Indian Women