In honor of Native American Heritage Month, let’s dive into the incredible stories of Indigenous women who have made history and continue to inspire the world. These women—bold leaders, groundbreaking scientists, and talented artists—have shattered barriers, changed their communities, and remind us all of what’s possible.

Here are 11 Native American women whose bravery, resilience, and achievements inspire us all:

Buffalo Calf Road Woman

A Northern Cheyenne herot with unmatched courage, Buffalo Calf Road Woman is remembered for her incredible bravery. She not only rescued her brother during the Battle of the Rosebud but also fought fearlessly at the Battle of Little Bighorn, inspiring her people and generations beyond. Read more about her in Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls 2.

Darcie Little Badger

Lipan Apache author and scientist Darcie Little Badger blends Indigenous themes and speculative fiction in her award-winning novels Elatsoe and A Snake Falls to Earth. Her stories spark imagination and honor Indigenous culture in a way that young readers adore. Read about her in Rebel Girls Celebrate Pride.

Edmonia Lewis

As the first internationally recognized Black and Native American sculptor, Edmonia Lewis broke new ground in the art world. Her neoclassical sculptures, often depicting Indigenous and African American subjects, set her apart in the male-dominated art scene of the 19th century. Listen to her story read by Dana King on our podcast or read about her in Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls: 100 Immigrant Women Who Changed the World.

Isabella Madrigal

Isabella Madrigal, a Cahuilla and Turtle Mountain Chippewa playwright, co-founded Native Storytelling to address Native community issues through the arts. Her work raises awareness about missing and murdered Indigenous women (MMIW) and uses theater to call for justice. Listen to her story on our podcast or read about it in Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls: 100 Inspiring Young Changemakers.

Linda Davis and Shara Davis

This mother-daughter duo from the Blackfeet Nation created the Blackfeet Language Immersion Program, dedicating their work to reviving their language and preserving cultural traditions. Their dedication ensures the Blackfeet language thrives for future generations. Read their story in Rebel Girls Powerful Pairs.

Lozen

A fierce Apache hero, medicine woman, and strategist, Lozen fought alongside her brother, Chief Victorio, to protect her people from U.S. displacement efforts. Her legacy is one of strength, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to her community. Read more about her in Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls.

Sherenté Harris

Sherenté Harris, a two-spirit Narragansett and Niantic dancer and artist, is a passionate advocate for Indigenous and LGBTQ+ rights. They’ve broken barriers in powwow dancing, celebrating Indigenous and queer identities with pride and resilience. Read more about them in Rebel Girls Celebrate Pride.

Tolani Francisco

A Pueblo veterinarian, Tolani Francisco works within tribal communities to support animal health and public health efforts. She’s a champion of environmental stewardship, animal care, and public health on Native lands. Read more about Tolani in Rebel Girls Animal Allies or listen to her story on our podcast.

Wilma Mankiller

The first female Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, Wilma Mankiller focused on social services, healthcare, and education for Native communities. Her work opened doors for women in leadership and continues to inspire Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities alike. Learn more about Wilma in Rebel Girls Lead or listen to her story on our podcast.

Winona LaDuke

An Anishinaabe environmentalist, economist, and author, Winona LaDuke has tirelessly advocated for Indigenous land rights and sustainable development. Through organizations like Honor the Earth, she champions renewable energy and environmental justice. Read her inspiring story in Rebel Girls Climate Warriors.

These 11 women remind us of the power of resilience, courage, and vision. Explore more stories on our blog and podcast to meet the women who are shaping history, one story at a time.