Sheila Little-Harjo announces her intent to seek election for Assistant Chief of the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma. A long-time Tribal leader and community advocate, Sheila believes her experience in tribal government and a lifetime of familial involvement in Seminole Nation leadership uniquely qualifies her to serve as Assistant Chief.

The daughter of former General Council Member, Mitchell Little and Wanda Coker-Little. Raised in the Little community north of Seminole just east of Strother School, Sheila attended Seminole Hitchitee Church. A church founded by her great-grandfather, Rev. Thomas Little who also served as Assistant Chief of the Seminole Nation in 1906. Sheila’s grandfather Rev. Bud Little also served as pastor of the church. Sheila’s maternal great grandmother was Molly Perryman Little- Yeager, and her maternal grandmother was, Alice Miller.

Continuing her family legacy, Sheila served on the Seminole Nation General Council for eight years. Sheila also held the position of Hecete Band Chief, Finance Committee Chairman, and served on various Boards including the Seminole Nation Code of Laws Committee. Sheila believes our leaders should fully understand the Seminole Nation’s ongoing struggle for survival. “As mentioned earlier my great grandfather was Assistant Chief in 1906—a time when Tribal governments and communities were being eliminated. For years our Nation and leaders were not recognized, but we continued to meet and elect our own leaders. Their determination to maintain our self-governance is a historical legacy to build on as we move forward in these challenging times.”

Sheila’s experience includes serving as a consultant across Indian Country assisting with audit resolution, strategic planning and training in accounting software. Sheila has worked with several Oklahoma Tribal Nations as Controller, Assistant Finance Director, Budget Analyst, Program Director and Self-Governance Director.

A staunch advocate for creating communities where people can feel safe, grow and heal--Sheila has served on the National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center Board, the Seminole Nation Domestic Violence Advisory Board and as volunteer advocate for the Seminole Nation Domestic Violence Program. While on the General Council, Sheila led the effort to build the Regina Bounds Shelter—the second tribal Safe House for victims of Domestic Violence in Oklahoma.

Changing federal policies and drastic budget cuts threaten the sovereignty and possibly the existence of Tribal Nations. “The Seminole Nation has limited sources beyond federal dollars. To survive and succeed we must have leaders who will speak out and advocate for the Nation and all members, as our ancestors did before us. I believe my extensive experience qualifies me to assist the Seminole Nation navigate challenges that affect our tribal services and sovereignty. As Assistant Chief I will be a voice for all Tribal people and work closely with elected leadership to bring prosperity to our Nation.”

Sheila completed an Accounting Certification at a Vocational Program in Oklahoma City, and attended East Central University. Sheila and her husband of 32 years former Principal Chief Leonard M. Harjo raised four children, and have seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.