I don't think anybody anywhere can talk about the future of their people or of an organization without talking about education. Whoever controls the education of our children controls our future.

Mankiller Wilma Vine Deloria Jr. Norman: University of Oklahoma Press 2008. Such a structure contrasted with the traditional Cherokee culture and value system which tended to include both sexes in leadership positions though in somewhat different capacities.

She served as principal chief for ten years from 1985 to 1995.