Rothstein Donatelli has a long history of advocating for the rights of individuals and the sovereignty of Indian tribes. We are proud of our work on behalf of tribal nations across the country and equally proud of the Native American attorneys and administrative staff that daily support our work. In honor of Native American Heritage Month, we are pleased to introduce you to members of our team.
April Olson
I am not an enrolled member of a federally recognized tribe. On my mom's side we believe we are Yaqui descendants from Mexico. I did not grow up with my mother's family. I was raised in Minnesota with my dad's family (Swedish - hence the name Olson).
What motivated you to pursue work in the legal field/as an attorney? My ancestral ties, and prior to going to law school I was doing social work for the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa. I recruited Indian foster families, placed kids in accordance with ICWA and created and facilitated a youth group that taught independent living skills to Indian youth aging out of foster care. That work was a catalyst for me applying to law school. As a lawyer, I was hoping to have more control over a broken child welfare system. I was also inspired by my mother who was in a helping profession - she worked for years in the field of domestic violence in Indian country.
What is the best part of your job at Rothstein/in the legal field? Helping people. It sounds corny, but I didn't get into law for the money – I got into law to make a difference. There are very few moments where you get to see the impact of the good work you are doing. My favorite part is seeing these meaningful outcomes.
What type of fulfillment do you get from working as an attorney/in this field/at this firm? Feeling like you righted a wrong and made a difference. Also, having the opportunity to work with different tribes and meet people from all walks of life is very fulfilling.
What is it like to be a Native American lawyer/in the legal field? Generally, history is written by the colonizers and those in power. Growing up it seemed like history was taught from a very privileged perspective. Having an entire month where Native communities and cultures are highlighted is important for education. It is also important for our own people to see each other and become inspired by all the amazing accomplishments of our community. Overall, this month provides the next generation with an opportunity to see positive examples and enjoy the beauty and richness of their respective cultures.
Why is Native American Heritage Month important? Generally, history is written by the colonizers and those in power. Growing up it seemed like history was taught from a very privileged perspective. Having an entire month where Native communities and cultures are highlighted is important for education. It is also important for our own people to see each other and become inspired by all the amazing accomplishments of our community. Overall, this month provides the next generation with an opportunity to see positive examples and enjoy the beauty and richness of their respective cultures.
How do you like to stay connected with your culture? My decision to come to Arizona from Minnesota was to reconnect with my culture and to study Indian law. I feel connected to the Southwest in a way I did not in Minnesota. I also stay connected through books and cultural events. I do my best to be respectful in my reconnecting and relearning process.
Steven J.W. Heeley; Potawatomi Indian from the Walpole Island First Nation in Ontario, Canada
What motivated you to pursue work in the legal field/as an attorney? I always knew I would be an attorney. Starting in grade school, my lifelong goal has been to represent tribes.
What is the best part of your job at Rothstein/in the legal field? My favorite aspect of this job is playing a part in assisting a community to realize their goals and dreams. Recently, I had the opportunity to work on the development and construction of the Casa Blanca School with the Gila River Indian Community. This culturally immersive school reflects the values and vision of the faculty, teachers, students and families by beautifully incorporating the Community's culture, language, and history. Seeing the students transition from double-wide trailers to an innovative learning space with state-of-the-art accommodations coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic is something I will always cherish.
What type of fulfillment do you get from working as an attorney/in this field/at this firm? It brings me joy and pride to represent tribes and play a role in assisting communities to overcome unique challenges.
What is it like to be a Native American lawyer/in the legal field? I have been fortunate to hold different roles throughout my career, all of which have been in service to Native communities. From developing key legislation in Washington D.C. to now working with local tribes, I have always focused on making a positive impact in Indian Country. Through this work, I try to bridge gaps in opportunities for tribes and find opportunities for development. One piece of legislation that comes to mind is the Indian Environmental General Assistance Grant Program. This legislation authorized the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to provide general assistance grants to assist tribes and tribal consortia in developing their environmental protection programs and develop and implement solid and hazardous waste programs on tribal lands. I worked on this legislation many years ago and I am grateful to hear how impactful this grant continues to be for Indian tribes.
Why is Native American Heritage Month important? This month is important to broaden awareness about Native America as a whole and recognize the issues tribes continue to navigate. The more representation of Native communities through large scale platforms and social media is important for acknowledgment purposes.
How do you like to stay connected with your culture? Although I do not currently work for my own tribe, I maintain connections to my culture through my family. In this way I stay grounded through cultural teachings.
