Mary Louisa Plummer

Plummer interrogates Indigenous identity and queer experiences through a social science lens, using her expertise to shed light on marginalized narratives. Her collaborative work, notably with Ma-Nee Chacaby on "A Two-Spirit Journey: The Autobiography of a Lesbian Ojibwa-Cree Elder", employs oral history methodology to explore themes of resilience, addiction recovery, and community activism. This method not only preserves authentic voices but also challenges conventional narratives around Indigenous and queer lives, offering a nuanced perspective on intersectionality.\n\nBy combining structured interview transcripts with oral history, Plummer's approach provides readers with a vivid account of the complexities faced by two-spirit individuals. Her work serves as an invaluable resource for those interested in understanding the interplay of culture, identity, and activism. The recognition garnered by "A Two-Spirit Journey", including the Oral History Association’s Book Award, underscores its significant impact in both the literary and academic communities, affirming the book's contribution to broader conversations on diversity and inclusion.\n\nThrough her focus on public health and children's rights, Plummer extends her reach beyond literature into real-world applications, influencing both policy and practice. Her efforts as a consultant for the UK Medical Research Council and coordinator for the MEMA kwa Vijana trial demonstrate a commitment to integrating research with advocacy. Readers benefit from her interdisciplinary approach, which not only enriches the narrative of Indigenous and queer histories but also informs public discourse on pressing social issues.