Ellen Gabriel

Ellen Gabriel (born 1959), also known as Katsi'tsakwas, is a Mohawk activist and artist from Kanehsatà:ke Nation (Kanehsatà:ke Quebec, Canada) – Turtle Clan, known for her involvement as the official spokesperson, chosen by the People of the Longhouse, during the Oka Crisis.

Early life and education Ellen Gabriel was born in 1959 in Kanehsatà:ke Nation, Quebec, Canada. From a young age, she was passionate about art. Gabriel grew up during the 1960s and 1970s, witnessing anti-war and women's rights movements, which sparked her interest in activism.

In May 1990, she received a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Concordia University, majoring in Studio Art.

Career Ellen Gabriel began her career as an art teacher at the Kanehsatake Language and Cultural Center. In 1993, the documentary Kanehsatake: 270 Years of Resistance was released; she was a prominent part of the film. Gabriel also worked as a coordinator of the First People’s House at McGill University from 2001 to 2004. Her work consisted of presenting issues and concerns regarding the challenges faced by Indigenous women to Parliamentary committees, standing committees, and National Assembly committees.

Activism In March 1990, Gabriel joined in the movement against the expansion of a golf course in Oka, Quebec. That event eventually escalated into the Oka Crisis.

Gabriel currently holds a position as member of Indigenous Climate Action's Steering Committee.

Honours and awards Honours and awards in film

Selected at the American Indian Film Festival 2022 Honorable Mention at the Tokyo Film Awards 2022 Best Student Short Kanatenhs for the film When the Pine Needles Fall, from the Sydney Indie Short Film Festival 2023

Honours and awards in Indigenous activism

Golden Eagle Award from the Native Women's Association of Canada, 2005 International Women's Day Award from the Barreau du Québec/Québec Bar Association Jigonsaseh Women of Peace Award, 2008