Mother and Representative

Lisa Billy

Though Lisa Billy works in a field that is predominantly male, and predominantly white, she says the biggest challenge to her credibility has been being a "housewife" and mother. She discusses the battles she fought against others' preconceived notions and her own occasional bouts with self-doubt on her journey to the state capitol.

SHOW MORE

Related Videos

7 Items

Teaching Children to Live from the Land

Lisa Billy
Lisa Billy has made it a priority to teach her children to live from the land in the way of their ancestors.

Overcoming Obstacles

Lisa Billy
Though the career of any public official is filled with challenges, Lisa Billy's Chickasaw heritage keeps her from being discouraged.

Influence of Motherhood

Lisa Billy
Even when Lisa Billy is at the capitol and her children are in school, she is still heavily influenced by her role as a mother.

Typical Day in My Life

Lisa Billy
Lisa Billy's job sometimes requires her to work 14- and 15-hour days, but she always makes spending time with her family a priority.

First Female Native American Congresswoman in District

Lisa Billy
Lisa Billy is not only the first female congressman in her district— she is also the first Indian.

Overcoming Labels in Politics

Lisa Billy
Campaigning door to door, Lisa Billy came to the harsh realization that in politics, it was still very much a man's world.

Passions in Legislature

Lisa Billy
Chief among Lisa Billy's priorities in the legislature are two things.