Wawa Calac Chaw, a name that translates to "Keep From the Water," was a multifaceted figure who navigated the complexities of identity and social justice in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born on Christmas Day in 1888 in Valley Center, within the Tule River area of California, Wawa Calac Chaw was more than just a woman of her time; she was a writer, an artist, and a compelling lecturer who passionately advocated for both Indigenous rights and feminist causes. Her life, spanning from the close of the Victorian era to the burgeoning social movements of the 1970s, was a testament to her resilience, her intellectual curiosity, and her unwavering commitment to equality. Her story, though perhaps not widely known, is a vital thread in the tapestry of American history, illuminating the struggles and triumphs of Indigenous women striving for recognition and empowerment.
Early Life and Cultural Displacement
Wawa Calac Chaw’s origins lay within the Rincon division of the Luiseno tribe, an Indigenous people whose ancestral lands encompass parts of Southern California. However, her early life took an unexpected turn. To safeguard her health, she was taken in infancy by Dr. Cornelius Duggan and his sister, Mary Duggan, both residents of New York. The Duggans raised her as their own child, a decision that undeniably shaped her worldview and her access to opportunities unavailable to many Indigenous children of the time.
This displacement from her tribal community, while intended to protect her well-being, also introduced her to a world far removed from her cultural heritage. It placed her at the intersection of two distinct cultures, forcing her to negotiate her identity within the framework of both Indigenous tradition and the dominant White society. This unique position likely fueled her later activism, providing her with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by Indigenous people while also equipping her with the tools to navigate the power structures of the broader American society.
A Prodigy’s Artistic Awakening
Even as a young child, Wawa Calac Chaw displayed remarkable artistic talent. Her abilities weren’t confined to traditional art forms; she demonstrated a keen aptitude for scientific and medical illustration. During the pioneering work of Pierre and Marie Curie on radium and cancer research, young Wawa created detailed sketches that documented their experiments. This early exposure to scientific inquiry and her ability to translate complex concepts into visual representations highlighted her intellectual prowess and her potential to contribute meaningfully to various fields.
Her artistic talent was not merely a skill; it became a powerful tool for communication and advocacy. Throughout her life, she used her art to express her views on social issues, to portray individuals who inspired her, and to convey the struggles and triumphs of the Indigenous community.
Activism and Advocacy in Her Teens
Long before she reached adulthood, Wawa Calac Chaw emerged as a vocal advocate for Indian and feminist causes. In her teens, she addressed a meeting at the prestigious Astor Hotel, sponsored by none other than Carrie Chapman Catt, a leading figure in the women’s suffrage movement. This early foray into public speaking demonstrates her exceptional ability to articulate her views and engage with influential audiences. It also reveals the support she received from within the burgeoning feminist movement, which recognized the interconnectedness of women’s rights and Indigenous rights.
Her connection to Carrie Chapman Catt and her participation in feminist events suggest a deep understanding of the broader social and political landscape. She recognized that the fight for Indigenous rights was intertwined with the fight for gender equality, and she actively sought to bridge these movements to amplify their collective voice.
Collaboration with Dr. Carlos Montezuma
A pivotal figure in Wawa Calac Chaw’s life was Dr. Carlos Montezuma, a Yavapai physician and activist who tirelessly championed the rights of Native Americans. She became a close friend, co-worker, and fundraiser for Montezuma’s Wassaja project, a movement dedicated to Indigenous self-determination and social justice. As a trusted confidante, she played a crucial role in planning his campaigns and advocating for the needs of the Indigenous community.
Her involvement with the Wassaja project underscores her commitment to Indigenous self-governance and her belief in the power of collective action. She worked tirelessly to raise awareness about the issues facing Native Americans, to secure funding for their initiatives, and to empower them to take control of their own destinies.
Interactions with Intellectuals and Leaders
Throughout her life, Wawa Calac Chaw encountered a diverse array of influential figures, including Sir Oliver Lodge, a physicist and spiritualist, and Arthur Conan Doyle, the creator of Sherlock Holmes. These interactions undoubtedly shaped her intellectual development and broadened her perspective on the world. While the specific details of their conversations remain largely undocumented, it is clear that these encounters were mutually enriching. They recognized her intellect and her unique perspective, while she gained valuable insights from their expertise and experiences.
These connections to prominent intellectuals suggest her ability to engage with diverse perspectives and to find common ground with individuals from different backgrounds. It also highlights her intellectual curiosity and her eagerness to learn from others.
A Colorful Personality and a Passion for Equality
Those who knew Wawa Calac Chaw described her as a "colorful person"—outspoken, yet possessing a childlike quality that endeared her to many. Despite her accomplishments, she remained modest about her achievements in the social field, focusing instead on the importance of her message of equality for Indian women. She sold her paintings in Greenwich Village sidewalk shows, not just for financial gain, but also as a means to connect with people and spread her message of social justice.
Her humility and her unwavering commitment to her cause reveal a deep sense of purpose. She was not driven by personal ambition or fame, but by a genuine desire to improve the lives of Indigenous women and to create a more just and equitable society.
Marriage and Later Life
Wawa Calac Chaw married Manuel Carmonia-Nunez, a Puerto Rican businessman and organizer for the Cigar Workers’ Union, who was described as the "son of the last Spanish Lieutenant." After her marriage, she adopted the name Benita Nunez. Tragically, the couple’s child died in infancy. Despite this personal loss, she continued to remain active in the Indian community and to advocate for her causes.
Her marriage to Manuel Carmonia-Nunez reflects her openness to cross-cultural relationships and her willingness to embrace new experiences. Despite the challenges she faced, she remained steadfast in her commitment to her beliefs and her community.
Legacy
Wawa Calac Chaw died in New York City on May 12, 1972, at the age of 83. Her life was a testament to her resilience, her intellectual curiosity, and her unwavering commitment to equality. Her legacy as a writer, artist, lecturer, and activist continues to inspire those who strive for social justice and Indigenous rights. Although her name may not be widely known, her contributions to the fight for equality and her unwavering dedication to her community deserve recognition and remembrance.