In recognition of Native American Heritage Month in November, MassLive asked readers to identify people who are leaders from the Indigenous community throughout the state, working to make a difference in their own area of interest, be it politics, education, business or the arts.
MassLive will publish profiles of these leaders through November. These are people our readers have identified as inspirational, who may be doing good acts for their communities. They are being recognized for their accomplishments, leadership and commitment to inspire change.
Paul W. Pouliot (left) and Denise Pouliot (right) are part of the Cowasuck Band of the Pennacook-Abenaki People.Courtesy of Denise Pouliot
Paul and Denise Pouliot
Ages: 76 (Paul) and 50 (Denise)
Community: Merrimack Valley communities of Massachusetts and New Hampshire
Their Story: The Pouliots’ careers have been focused on advocating for regional and state-level Indigenous affairs commissions, activism, education and politics.
In 1990, Paul W. Pouliot was elected Sag8mo (head male speaker) for the Cowasuck Band of the Pennacook-Abenaki People. Under his leadership, the Band filed for federal acknowledgment in 1995.
In 2005, Denise Pouliot became the treasurer for the Band. She went on to become the Sag8moskwa (head female speaker) in 2008.
Through the Band, the Pouliots works with towns, schools districts, churches and historical organizations to decolonize local histories, town logos/seals and school mascots. Most of their works includes developing specific acknowledgment and stewardship statements for their particular locale.
The Poulitots also helped found the Indigenous New Hampshire Collaborative Collective (INHCC), which is a regional academic research group and internet platform for public engagement and education. Denise Pouliot is also a multi-media basket weaver and artist.
In their words: “Working as an Indigenous leader requires very deep cultural and historical knowledge,” Paul Pouliot said. “You also have to be able to outreach and present your knowledge in many public forums in an effort to educate the general public while uplifting the greater regional Indigenous community.”
“Working as an Indigenous female leader is particularly challenging considering that most community leaders and spokespeople are men,” Denise Pouliot said. “It takes a particular strength, knowledge, and public speaking ability to present your views and advocacy for your community. As an Indigenous woman I am at the forefront of our Band’s efforts for social, cultural and environmental justice for all regional Indigenous People.”
We’re always open to hearing about more inspiring people. If you’d like to suggest someone else who should be recognized, please fill out this form.
