150 Years of Warrior Women
by founder, SarahNicole
Over the past 150 years, the world has witnessed the incredible strength and resilience of warrior women, particularly those from indigenous communities. Indigenous women have played a vital role in the fight for land rights, cultural preservation, and social justice, leaving an indelible mark on history.
From the late 19th century onwards, Indigenous warrior women emerged as powerful voices for their communities. Women like Sarah Winnemucca, a Northern Paiute activist, tirelessly advocated for the rights of Indigenous peoples in the United States, highlighting the injustices they faced and demanding change.
One woman who speaks volumes to me is Kizh/Tongva Native, Toypurina. She played a crucial role in resisting Spanish colonization in Southern California. As a medicine woman and spiritual leader, Toypurina led a rebellion against the Spanish presence, seeking to reclaim and protect her ancestral lands. Her bravery and leadership inspired her people, and her actions left a lasting impact on the indigenous communities of the region. Toypurina’s legacy serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of the Tongva people in the face of adversity, and her story continues to be celebrated as a symbol of indigenous resistance and empowerment.
Throughout the 20th century, Indigenous warrior women continued to lead the way. Wilma Mankiller, the first female Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, transformed her community through her leadership, prioritizing education, healthcare, and self-governance. In Australia, activists such as Faith Bandler fought for the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, working towards equality and recognition.
In recent decades, Indigenous warrior women have been at the forefront of environmental activism. Vandana Shiva (Check out her website for an extraordinary documentary), an Indian environmentalist, has fought against destructive practices and advocated for sustainable agriculture, recognizing the deep connection between land and indigenous cultures. Winona LaDuke, an Anishinaabe activist, has dedicated her life to protecting tribal lands and promoting renewable energy. I (SarahNicole) have had the pleasure of not only meeting Winona LaDuke, but also laying the foundation for her home on Madeline Island. While also on island, I had the incredible honor of smoking a pipe with her, Paul Demain, and some others, in ceremony with a sacred blend of tobacco.
Warrior women have existed, exist, and will continue to exist. The warrior spirit is undeniably present in some. I, myself, align with this Spirit immensely which is why I have built out the “Warrior” intensive program. These warrior women have not only fought for their own communities but have also been powerful advocates for Indigenous peoples worldwide. They have brought attention to issues such as cultural appropriation, colonization, and the preservation of traditional knowledge. Their courage and determination have inspired generations of Indigenous women to reclaim their heritage, challenge injustices, and assert their rightful place in society.
The last 150 years have seen Indigenous warrior women rise as powerful forces for change, advocating for land rights, cultural preservation, and social justice. Their contributions have been instrumental in raising awareness about Indigenous issues (which is really ALL people’s issues), empowering their communities, and challenging the dominant narratives. The legacy of these warrior women continues to inspire and guide the ongoing struggle for Indigenous rights and the recognition of their vital contributions to the world.
Whether you are Indigenous to Turtle Island, or elsewhere in the world, here at Free Feminine we encourage you to connect with your roots, the warriors in your history, and continue their power forward in your own life.
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