- Name: Monika
- Surname: Ponton-Arrington, Ph.D.
- About Me: Monika Ponton-Arrington a Boriken (Puerto Rico) Taino is an enrolled member of the United Confederation of Taino People and serves as the Southeastern Regional Representative. As the oldest of five children, the mother of four and a grandmother of three, Monika has listened to her grandmother, her family and friends, speak about the wide spread prejudice, bigotry and misconceptions against indigenous peoples. Having experience this herself through childhood and even in the 21st century, she was lead to pursue a certificate in healing arts. Monika has devoted her time and her energy to educating the public on indigenous issues. Her grandmother (Bibi) provided her with a solid foundation for this path. Spending time in the everglades of Florida, the keys, and moving into the mountain of North Georgia, Monika became knowledgeable with the ways of indigenous peoples and the day to day struggle.
Monika known as Mamona'naru to her people is a married. She along with her husband Fulton, who is Cherokee, lives in the mountains of north Georgia. Monika, always interested in indigenous rights especially for women and children, armed with the understanding, Monika has sought formal knowledge as well. A diploma in Native American Holistic Theology and a graduate of the Native Wellness Institute, she is blessed with book learning as well as the intuition of a native healer and advocate.
Monika has received a honorary doctorate degree in Humanities, has been recognize and received a Ambassador-ship to the Interfaith Peace Building Initiative and is the Executive Liaison Indigenous Affairs to IPI recently was named Tekina (ceremonial /spiritual teacher) and has written articles, has been interviewed for newspapers and magazines, working on several documentaries concerning indigenous peoples. As a speaker, educator, artist, dancer, mentor, and counselor, Monika continues to reach out to help promote awareness of true Indigenous history, concerns and issues in today’s world. in addition as the appointed liaison & representative to Indigenous Affairs both for iChange Nations and for the Interfaith Peace-Building Initiative of the North American Division. I hope I can make people aware that our indigenous women and children are in need, for they are our future.
I hold a Ph.D. in Humanities as I continue to add to the existing world knowledge through my expertise and understanding on how to enhance and empower indigenous people around the world.
My influence has allowed me to receive honors from many nations to include the Golden Rule Award International which is recognized by the United Nations and African Union.
