Wilma Mankiller
Notable Natives: Wilma Mankiller
The 1934 Indian Reorganization Act sought to reverse earlier federal assimilation policies. This “Indian New Deal” paved the way for Native women to reestablish leadership roles within tribal communities.
Educator Mildred Cleghorn became the first chairperson of the Fort Sill Apache Tribe after they received federal recognition in 1976. She led the tribe for 18 years. Activist Wilma Mankiller served as Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation from 1985 to 1995. She was the first woman elected as chief.
Wilma Mankiller was a strong political leader who served as deputy principal chief starting in 1983 and became principal chief in 1985, leading one of the largest tribes in the United States until 1995. She helped improve her community by creating a department that built water systems, fixed homes, and opened health clinics.
During her leadership, the tribe’s income grew by about 200 percent, and she expanded early education programs and adult literacy efforts. In 1990, she signed an important agreement that gave the tribe more control over its own funding, strengthening tribal independence. She also spoke out across the country for Native American and women’s rights, was honored in the National Women’s Hall of Fame in 1993, and wrote a bestselling book about her life and work.
Our women leaders continue to strengthen our communities. Women in leadership roles provide balance and stability in our tribes.