Native American Women

Matrilineal Society

A society where clan membership and inheritance are traced through the mother.

Wilma Mankiller

The first female Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, advocating for the rights of American Indians.

Women’s Role in Tribes

In some tribes, women held equal or higher status than men, contributing to agriculture, leadership, and cultural preservation.

Forced Sterilizations

The federal government's controversial practice in the 1970s, where Native American women were sterilized without consent.

Zitkála-Šá

A notable Native American writer and activist who advocated for Native American civil rights and was instrumental in passing the Indian Citizenship Act in 1924.

Indian Health Service (IHS)

The federal agency that provided healthcare to Native Americans and was involved in the forced sterilization scandal.

Cherokee Mythology

In Cherokee belief, the sun is female, symbolizing constancy, while the moon is male, indicating inconsistency.

Women of All Red Nations (WARN)

A group that fought for Native American civil and reproductive rights, addressing issues like forced sterilization.

Indian Citizenship Act (1924)

Legislation that granted full U.S. citizenship to Native Americans, influenced by advocates like Zitkála-Šá.

The role of women in tribal politics

Women participated in leadership roles and decision-making processes, often influencing tribal governance.