Lucy Friedlander Covington: A Beacon of Hope and Resilience in Indian Country

Photo of Lucy from the website: https://www.ewu.edu/give/funds/lucy-covington-initiative/

Lucy Friedlander Covington, a name that resonates with profound respect and admiration throughout Indian Country and beyond, is a testament to the indomitable spirit of indigenous leadership. As a distant relative and someone who deeply venerates Lucy, it’s an honor to delve into her legacy, particularly her pivotal role as a tribal leader of the Colville Confederated Tribes. Her relentless fight against the policy of termination in the mid-20th century not only preserved the sovereignty of her own tribe but also inspired numerous others across the United States to safeguard their identities and governance.

Lucy Covington's strategy was revolutionary for its time, leveraging public relations and the power of persuasion to shift the tide of opinion among both indigenous and non-indigenous people alike. At a time when the federal government sought to dissolve tribal nations, stripping them of their lands and self-governance, Covington stood as a defencive wall against these attempts. Her efforts were not merely acts of resistance but were grounded in a deep belief in justice, equity, and the inherent sovereignty of indigenous peoples.

My admiration for Lucy stems not only from her achievements but from a personal connection that runs deep through our shared lineage. We are both descendants of Chief Sulk-stalk-scosum from the Moses Family, a lineage marked by leadership and resilience. This connection makes her story not just a chapter in history but a part of my own identity and inspiration.

The recognition of Lucy Covington’s legacy at Eastern Washington University, where a building will bear her name, fills me with immense pride. As an alumni of EWU, it’s heartening to see the institution honor a woman whose leadership transcended tribal boundaries and whose influence continues to echo through the halls of academia. This gesture serves as a beacon of hope and inclusion for future Eagles, ensuring that indigenous students feel seen, heard, and valued.

Lucy Covington's story is a crucial narrative in Indian Country and beyond. Her fight against tribal termination is a stark reminder of the injustices faced by indigenous peoples at the hands of the United States Government. Yet, it also highlights the power of steadfast leadership and the importance of preserving sovereignty and governance against all odds.

As we reflect on Lucy’s legacy, it’s imperative to remember the responsibility we carry forward. We must educate, inspire, and transform our communities and governments to protect our rights, our people, and our connection to the Earth. It is in our DNA to lead, to use our voices for change, just as Lucy Covington did.

Her story encourages us to stand firm in our identities as members of our tribal nations and as custodians of our ancestral lands. Let us honor Lucy Covington’s legacy by continuing the fight for our rights, for our sovereignty, and for the well-being of future generations. Her spirit, dedication, and resilience remain a guiding light for all of us in Indian Country, reminding us of the power of one individual to inspire a multitude and effect lasting change.

Lucy Covington's impactful journey is the story of her enduring friendships and collaborations, notably with Grandma Shirley Palmer and Mel Tonasket. These relationships were not merely personal connections but were pivotal in the broader fight against tribal termination and for the preservation of indigenous rights.

Shirley Palmer, who served on the Tribal Council alongside Lucy, was a comrade-in-arms in these efforts. Their partnership on the council was a formidable force against the policies that sought to undermine tribal sovereignty. Together, they navigated the complex political landscape, advocating for the rights and future of their people. Their collaboration was a testament to the strength found in unity, demonstrating how collective leadership could amplify the voice of a community fighting for its survival.

Mel Tonasket, another significant figure in this narrative, worked closely with Lucy and Shirley, contributing to the strategic efforts to protect indigenous lands and rights. His leadership within the Colville Confederated Tribes and beyond was instrumental in building a coalition of support against termination policies.

The friendships and professional relationships between Lucy Covington, Shirley Palmer, and Mel Tonasket exemplify the power of collective action. Their united front was crucial in not only combating the policies of the time but also in laying the groundwork for future generations. These relationships underscore the importance of solidarity, shared vision, and relentless determination in the fight for justice and sovereignty.

As we remember Lucy Covington's legacy, the stories of her friendships with Shirley Palmer and Mel Tonasket remind us of the importance of community and collaboration. It's a powerful reminder that while a single person can spark change, it is together that we can sustain it. Their combined efforts not only contributed to the halt of termination policies but also inspired countless others to continue the fight for indigenous rights and self-determination.