Hundreds gather to remember Native American leader Elouise Cobell
KRTV.com
October 23, 2011,
Hundreds gathered in Browning on Saturday morning to honor Elouise Cobell, who spent years fighting for Native American rights.
Funeral services were held at Browning High School to remember the life and legacy of Cobell.
Cobell is best known for her work in a lawsuit against the federal government that won a multi-billion dollar settlement for more than 300,000 Native Americans.
Friends, family and members of the state's Congressional delegation were in attendance.
Marleena Kindness shared her feelings about why she wanted to attend the funeral. She said, "We're all very proud and we love her. And, we're going to miss her. But, we'll never forget her. She's done a great thing for Indian country. We're very proud of her. And, I wanted to show my respect to her and her family."
Lorraine Rumney echoed those sentiments saying, "Well, she really worked hard. So many years did she work for us. So, I'm sure they're all very proud of her. And, we're all sad that she can't live to see the end of it."
U.S. Senators Jon Tester and Max Baucus were also in attendance.
Tester has called Cobell a guiding light saying her example will "always lead the way for all Americans who fight for justice and fairness."
Baucus has said Cobell was a warrior for justice, a voice for the voiceless, and a dear friend.
Cobell passed away Sunday night from cancer at the age of 65.
