Nelson Rockefeller’s daughter established a nonprofit for Indigenous culture and contributed artifacts to two Smithsonian institutions.
Ann Rockefeller Roberts, a passionate advocate for Native American rights, welfare, and culture, passed away at the age of 90 at her home in Bedford, New York. She was the eldest daughter of former Vice President and Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller of New York. Ann dedicated her life to supporting Native American communities and preserving their traditions.
Ann’s deep connection to Native American culture led her to establish the Fund of the Four Directions in 1979. This organization provided grants to Native American grassroots groups to revitalize their traditional practices, languages, and farming techniques. Additionally, the fund supported efforts to uphold Native sovereignty and treaty rights through legal means. Over time, the Fund of the Four Directions merged with the Flying Eagle Woman Fund to further its impact.
One of Ann’s significant achievements was facilitating the transfer of the extensive Heye Foundation collection of Native American artifacts to prominent institutions. This collection was relocated from its original location in Hamilton Heights, Upper Manhattan, to the National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C. The museum, which opened in 2004, showcases the rich cultural heritage of Native Americans. Furthermore, Ann played a key role in establishing the George Gustav Heye Center in Lower Manhattan, housed at the historic U.S. Custom House on Bowling Green, as an exhibition and educational space.
Ann Rockefeller Roberts’ legacy is marked by her dedication to advocating for Native American communities and preserving their cultural heritage. Her contributions have had a lasting impact on the recognition and support of Native American rights and traditions.
Source: The NY Times
