As a Native American, I was so happy to see Project: Eden's Garden feature a Native American character which is a rarity even outside the fanganronpa space (shout out Yahto Stone Crown from Kill/Cure as the only other rep afaik). So these past few years I was hoping and praying that she'd survive to the end. While the circumstances around the project's cancellation are terrible, I am so happy Wenona did manage to survive the Killing game even if we never get to see her story in its full glory (I know Cassidy was PISSED lololol we missed out on her crashout fr). I wanted to make this post as a final farwell to her character and just appreciate what great representation she is.
It's so refreshing to see a Native American character appear in a morally grey/antagonistic role. I feel a lot of Native American characters are portrayed as paragons of virtue especially when it comes to capitalism and the environment and Wenona is very clearly not that. Her weaponizing a system historically used to oppress people like her into a tool for her own benefit but as a consequence perpetuating that same oppresive system is such a fascinating character dynamic. And Wenona specifically focusing her business on agriculture adds an extra layer to her business practices.
Her dynamic with Damon would've been interesting to see unfold. Firstly, they both hold their Ultimate titles/talents in high regards. Wenona specifically has conflict with her tribe over her title as the Ultimate Entrepreneur. Secondly, by chapter 4 they each lost someone who they were very close too (Ulysses and Kai respectively). So it would've been nice to see them bond over shared trauma. And her becoming the late game support character makes a lot of sense for her character. Her becoming more of a team player after initally only looking out for herself mirrors Damon's growth throughout the story. Finally, their dialogue would be GOLD. They both give off "I'm the only normal person here" energy and as the endgame duo they would be insufferable (I say with love).
Also her friendship with Ulysses is so sweet. Despite being a morally backrupt billionaire Wenona still views Ulysses as competent and equal business partner and doesn't think less of him because of his disability. It's a shame chapter 2 never got finished their villain arc would've been iconic. Although I would've been devastated seeing Wenona's reaction to his death.
Also sidenote I just read back his FTEs and I just noticed he refers to his homestate of Virginia as Tsenacommacah which is the terminology used by the Powhatan people and the museum he works for is dedicated to the Patawomeck tribe. It makes me unreasonably happy Ulysses is cognisant and respectful of Native American history and language despite not being Native himself.
Idk where else to add this but LESBIAN ICON ikr. She was way too good for the male cast sorry Ulysses x Wenona shippers.
Wenona you will always be famous. Idc what the haters say you are a fantastic survivor dare I say the best survivor. I'm looking forward to seeing how Kill/Cure handles their Native American character I'm hoping Yahto survives as well.
Final disclaimer: feel free to disagree with any of my opinions. Just because I'm Native American myself does not mean my opinion is fact or worth more in anyway. If you have anything to add please leave them in the comments I would love more opportunities to discuss Wenona and her character.