Winnebago woman named deputy assistant secretary for civil rights


In a press release today the United States Department of Agriculture announced the appointment of Mary McNeil to the office of civil rights as deputy assistant secretary. The Winnebago woman will have responsibility for the leadership, coordination, and direction for USDA's civil rights programs.

Here's part of the release:

"As we embark on a new era in civil rights at USDA, Mary McNeil bringsvast experience to USDA in both civil rights and American Indianprograms at the Department," said Tom Vilsack. "Her leadership will enhancePresident Obama's and my goal of USDA being a model employer and premierservice provider to all."

Jodi Rave

Jodi Rave Spotted Bear

(Mandan, Hidatsa/ Mniconjou Lakota)

Founder & Editor in Chief

Location: Twin Buttes, North Dakota

Spoken Languages: English

Topic Expertise: Federal trust relationship with American Indians; Indigenous issues ranging from spirituality and environment to education and land rights

See the journalist page
Jodi Rave Spotted Bear

Sharing Is Caring

This article is not included in our Story Share & Care selection.

The content may only be reproduced with permission from the Indigenous Media Freedom Alliance. Please see our content sharing guidelines.

© Buffalo's Fire. All rights reserved.

We provide the independent reporting that non-Native, extractive outlets often overlook. We give our communities the context and the facts they need to make informed decisions.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we exist to illuminate tribal government decision-making for everyone who cares about transparency about Native issues. Because the consequences of restricted press freedom affect our communities every day, our trauma-informed reporting is rooted in a deep, firsthand expertise. Every gift helps keep the fire burning. A monthly contribution makes the biggest impact.

Respect The Fire

At Buffalo's Fire, we value constructive dialogue that builds an informed Indian Country. To keep this space healthy, moderators will remove:

  • Personal attacks, harassment, or hate speech
  • Spam, misinformation, or unsolicited promotion
  • Off-topic rants and excessive shouting (All Caps)

Let’s keep the fire burning with respect.

Winnebago woman named deputy assistant secretary for civil rights | Buffalo’s Fire