Susan Harness: Heritage Speaker
- Highlights:
- Travels from: Fort Collins, CO
- **Fee range: On Request
Keynote Topics
Possible Topics
- American Indian Transracial Adoption
- Lifescapes and Landmines of American Indian transracial adoption: A Personal Narrative
- Bourdieu and Child Placement: Why the Indian Adoption Project didn’t pan out.
- Historical Trauma and Child Adoption: What happens when the fabric rips?
Read Full Bio
Susan Harness is the author of Bitterroot: A Salish Memoir of Transracial Adoption and High Plains Book Award winner in the categories of Indigenous Writer and Creative Nonfiction.
A member of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, her interest in transracial adoption in general, and American Indian transracial adoption specifically, extends well beyond the academic. She has recently appeared on the TEDxMileHigh stage (Adopting a Child of a Different Race? Let’s Talk…), and interviewed by Ryan Warner of Colorado Public Radio, Corine Lesnes of Le Monde, Isaac Himmelman of HuffPost, and Rose Aguilar of KALW- San Francisco, as well as many others.
The issue of American Indian transracial adoption is beginning to receive a lot of scholarly attention, specifically from the perspective of the adoptee. Susan has been speaking on this topic since 1993. Academically, she has been presenting this information since 2006, as a panelist, a presenter, a lecturer, a keynote speaker and as a writer.
Most recently, Susan Harness worked with the Denver Indian Child Welfare Field Office of the Casey Family Foundation informing the people whose jobs determine then determining American Indian child welfare practices of the importance of Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978.
Using her research and her personal story, Susan Harness will discuss the historical policies that have most affected American Indian families, their purpose to undermine Native society and culture, specifically the removal of American Indian children for placement into non-Native families.
Ms. Harness’s experience as a keynote speaker, invited conference speaker and panelist for dozens of organizations has raised awareness in the need for transracial adoption reform.
Born in Montana to a family living on the Flathead Indian Reservation, she became a transracial adoptee at the age of two when she was removed from her home by a social worker because of “neglect.” Bitterroot: A Memoir of Transracial Adoption (Released October 1, 2018 from University of Nebraska Press), is a sweeping examination of her life that explores the uneasy intersection of race, history and the brutal government American Indian policies that affect the lives of her and her families.
Bitterroot is available on Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, as well as many other booksellers worldwide. Signed copies are available. To request, please fill out the contact form on this site. Also, Bitterroot will be coming out in paperback on March 1, 2020!
Susan Harness received her B.A. in anthropology from the University of Montana,her M.A. in cultural anthropology from Colorado State University in 2006, and her M.A. in creative nonfiction in 2016, also from Colorado State University.
She is the also author of Mixing Cultural Identities Through Transracial Adoption: After the Indian Adoption Project (1958-1967).
Susan Harness is still very much involved in the issue of American Indian transracial adoption and continues to write and speak nationally and internationally about this topic as well as about American Indian assimilation policies and practices.
Contact us at Speakers Inc and follow us on Twitter
Susan Harness | Heritage Speaker
Videos
Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry
No reviews available for this post.
Talent FAQ's
Do speakers charge a flat fee or by the hour?
Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.
What is the typical duration of a keynote speech and what is included?
Keynote speeches typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, with the duration determined by the speaker’s expertise, the event’s agenda, and audience preferences. Keynote speeches often include a combination of inspirational stories, practical insights, and actionable advice tailored to the event’s theme or objectives.
Does the scale of the event and audience size affect a speaker’s fee?
The scale of the event and audience size can indeed impact a speaker’s fee. Larger events with a broader reach or higher attendance may command higher fees due to increased exposure and demand. Conversely, smaller events or niche audiences may offer opportunities for more flexible pricing arrangements.
Travel expenses and other costs
Travel expenses such as transportation, accommodation, and meals are typically negotiated separately from the speaker’s fee. These costs vary depending on the speaker’s location, travel distance, and event duration. It’s important to clarify travel arrangements and expenses during the booking process to avoid misunderstandings.
Deposits and securing a booking
Many speakers require a deposit to secure a booking, with the remaining balance due closer to the event date. Deposits are often non-refundable and serve as a commitment from both parties. It’s advisable to discuss deposit requirements and payment terms with the speaker or their representative when finalizing the booking.
Additional tips and takeaways
- Virtual speaking appearances are a cost-effective alternative to high speaking fees, often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates.
- There is typically no difference in fee for a 15-minute speech versus a 60-minute speech.
- Some motivational speakers are open to discounting their fee if hired for more than one event by the same organization.
- When browsing speakers, consider their location to keep travel costs down.
- Personal connections to your organization or event location can increase your chances of securing a renowned speaker.
- Be upfront about your needs and expectations to ensure a successful partnership.
- Speaker bureaus like Speakers Inc help guide you through the booking process to negotiate the best deal with favorable terms.
Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!
View further speakers
- (33)
Kelly McDonald is a nationally recognized marketing expert, with deep specialization in diversity marketing and business trends. She was named #1 on Successful Meetings magazine’s list of “26 Hot Speakers.” Kelly is the author of How to Market to People Not Like You and has been featured on CNBC, in BusinessWeek, on CNNMoney.com and on Sirius/XM Radio. She works […]
- Travels from: Denver, CO
- Branding Speakers
- (15)
Sara Frasca is a business growth expert. Honing her skills in senior leadership roles in both corporate America and the world of startups, Sara now serves as Chief Executive Officer for Point NorthEast, a global business coaching firm. She helps leading organizations cultivate human imagination, build a culture of accountability, and solve complex problems to […]
- Travels from: Ponte Vedra Beach, FL
- Business Speakers
- (60)
Sophia Amoruso is a visionary who redefined the e-commerce landscape and built a global brand from the ground up. As the founder of Nasty Gal and Girlboss, she has transformed the way women approach business, leadership, and personal growth. Her journey from selling vintage clothing on eBay to running a multi-million-dollar fashion empire is a […]
- Travels from: London, UK
- Leadership Speakers
- (30)
Alan Stein, Jr. is a renowned performance coach, leadership expert, and keynote speaker who empowers organizations to reach their full potential. With a wealth of experience working with top athletes and corporate leaders, Alan brings a unique blend of insights and strategies to drive organizational excellence. Through his dynamic presentations and actionable techniques, Alan inspires […]
- Travels from: Gaithersburg, MD
- Motivational Speakers
- (20)
- (7)
Lolita Taub is not your typical venture capitalist. With a mission deeply rooted in community empowerment and a career spanning 15 years within the heart of Silicon Valley, she has emerged as a pivotal figure in the startup ecosystem. As a General Partner at Ganas Ventures, Lolita channels her expertise into investing in pre-seed and […]
- Travels from: San Diego, CA
- Hispanic Speakers
- (121)
Chef Antonia Lofaso is a culinary virtuoso whose talents have made her a household name in the world of food. Her remarkable journey from a young girl with a passion for cooking to a successful chef, restaurateur, and television personality is a testament to her dedication, creativity, and relentless pursuit of excellence. With a rich […]
- Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
- Chefs Speakers
- (59)
Maria Marin is the leading motivational icon among Hispanics worldwide. Her message of motivation, personal growth and success reaches millions through her newspaper columns, best-selling books, international seminars and radio show. As a “life coach” she now reaches thousands of listeners with her national syndicated radio show, “El Show de Maria” on Univision Radio Network. […]
- Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
- Motivational Speakers
- (44)
- (6)
Kate Vitasek is a distinguished authority in collaborative business relationships, renowned for her pioneering work in transforming traditional business models into cooperative partnerships that drive innovation and mutual success. Her groundbreaking “Vested” business model has redefined how organizations approach outsourcing and strategic alliances, emphasizing a “What’s-in-it-for-We” philosophy that fosters shared value and long-term sustainability. Recognized […]
- Travels from: Seattle, WA
- Culture Speakers
Disclaimer
These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.
Fee Range Information
All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.
