What Your Ribbon Skirt Means to Me: Deb Haaland's Historic Inauguration

Synopsis:

A contemporary Indigenous picture book that offers both an homage to Secretary Deb Haaland's achievements, and a celebration of urban Indigenous community through the eyes of a little girl.

Pia rushes over to the Indigenous community center after school. It’s where she goes every day to play outside with friends and work on her homework. But today—March 18, 2021—is special: Auntie Autumn gathers all the children around their television to witness Secretary Deb Haaland in her ribbon skirt at the White House as she becomes the first Native American to serve as a cabinet secretary. Pia and the other kids behold her Native pride on an international stage.

Together with their parents and Elders, the children explore the values woven into their own regalia, land, community, and traditions, making precious memories on this day they won’t soon forget.

Reviews
"Bunten (Aleut/Yup’ik) engages readers with lively language. Neidhardt’s (Diné) bold, realistic art radiates with strength, especially when Pia’s grandmother teaches her about the importance of regalia. A powerful story of intergenerational strength, womanhood, and Native pride."—Kirkus Reviews, starred review

"This simple story . . . artfully folds in all kinds of cultural details about Indigenous ceremonies, customs, and beliefs. Filled with bright, full-page illustrations, this attractive publication celebrates multiple urban and intertribal Native American traditions."—Booklist, starred review

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 4 to 8.

Additional Information
40 pages | 8.90" x 11.25" | Hardcover