Claudette C. White

Photo courtesy of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians

Today we are honoring a beautiful life in our #matriarchmonday space. We celebrate the Honorable Councilwoman Claudette C. White from the Fort Yuma Quechan Nation. Claudette made her journey to the spirit world last month but will forever be a mother, a sister, a leader in her community, and a matriarch.

Claudette was committed to justice and earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Northern Arizona University in 1995 and a law degree from Arizona State University in 2005. She was the youngest elected leader to her tribal council when she was 23 and continued to live a life of service to her community as Chief Judge for the Quechan Tribe. She incorporated innovative concepts in court by utilizing tribal customs and traditions and focusing on alternatives to standard punitive measures. Claudette was an advocate for restorative justice and shared her perspective on many important issues including missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and people, and promoted her love of arts, culture, and music.

Claudette was dedicated to uplifting the lives of those around her and we honor her spirit and send love to all those who are moving forward in her memory.